The Point Publication

20/01/2025

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗦𝗼𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵 𝗮𝘁 𝗗𝗦𝗣𝗖 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

The Point Publication proudly returns to the university with an impressive haul of awards from various categories during the three-day Division Schools Press Conference (DSPC) 2025, hosted by Leyte National High School.

Expectations were high for The Point staffers in their second bout at the press conference especially that many previous staffers made it to the podium in majority of the individual categories from the previous year.

It was also the first year the Publication had braved the challenge of competing in the Radio Broadcasting, breaking new grounds for the potential of the Leyte Normal University - Integrated Laboratory School (LNU-ILS).

Cheers erupted as the awardees successfully garnered places in their designated categories, showcasing their remarkable talents and journalistic integrity.

A highlight of this year’s contest was the first ever DSPC 1st placer hailed from the LNU-ILS, nabbing a ticket to the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC).

Moreover, The Point Publication extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Tacloban City DSPC winners and participants.

The DSPC 2025 Awardees for The Point Publication are:

𝗕𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗲𝘆 𝗣. 𝗘𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗮
1st Place in Feature Writing Secondary - English (Regional Schools Press Conference Qualifier)

𝗭𝗵𝘆𝗿𝗮 𝗡𝗶𝗰𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗗. 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘁𝗲𝗼
2nd Place in Feature Writing Secondary - English

𝗦𝘄𝗮𝘆𝗻𝗲 𝗔𝗻𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗮 𝗔. 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗼𝗻
2nd Place in Larawang Pampahayagan Secondary - Filipino

𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝗚. 𝗖𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗮𝘆
3rd Place in Pagsulat ng Lathalain Secondary - Filipino

𝗕𝗿𝘆𝗰𝗲 𝗔𝗻𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗶 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗽𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗟. 𝗣𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗲
4th Place in Photojournalism Secondary - English

𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗲𝗲𝗳 𝗔. 𝗦𝗮𝗯𝗶𝘄𝗮𝗻𝗴
5th Place in Editorial Writing Secondary - English

The following participants who competed in the event are:

𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴

•Shiloh Ayanna Amor A. Esic
•Reagan Gabrielle U. Leaño

𝗙𝗲𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴

•Herielle G. Margallo

𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴

•Tazha Margarette R. Arcena
•Jolie Rae B. Nebrija

𝗘𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴

•Jose Alfonso A. Lumaniog

𝗖𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗺𝗻 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴

•Khayenne Nicole S. Cecilio
•Kyra C. Dy

𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴

•Christine Rose O. Tante

𝗖𝗼𝗽𝘆𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴

•Allyssa Mae A. Mendez
•Chelsea Eveth M. Superada

𝗘𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗼𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴

•Ricci Antonette C. Blanco
•Hanimar Abby C. Cabelin

𝗣𝗵𝗼𝘁𝗼𝗷𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗺

•Julianna Jade S. Burre
•Denise Angeli M. Dignos

𝗣𝗮𝗴𝘀𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁 𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮

•Maxinne Joice T. Platilla

𝗣𝗮𝗴𝘀𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁 𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗹𝗮𝗸𝗮𝘀𝗮𝗻

•John Carlos E. Diaz
•Kirsten Denise A. Mendoza

𝗣𝗮𝗴𝘀𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁 𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝘂𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴

•Bianca N. Rosa

𝗣𝗮𝗴𝘀𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁 𝗻𝗴 𝗞𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗺

•Santi Domini O. Mendiola
•Shiphrah Joy I. Manjeron

𝗣𝗮𝗴𝘀𝘂𝗹𝗮𝘁 𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗴𝗵𝗮𝗺 𝗮𝘁 𝗧𝗲𝗸𝗻𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗵𝗶𝘆𝗮

•Kriztian Louie L. Duzar

𝗣𝗮𝗴𝘄𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝘁 𝗣𝗮𝗴-𝘂𝘂𝗹𝗼 𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗮

•Alisa Kyla C. Batica

𝗣𝗮𝗴𝗴𝘂𝗵𝗶𝘁 𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝘂𝗱𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴

•Mary Diana C. Durango

𝗟𝗮𝗿𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗵𝗮𝘆𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗻

•Denise Gabrielle A. Rosa
•Shereez Kei Urgel

𝗥𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗼 𝗦𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗽𝘁𝘄𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗿𝗼𝗮𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 (𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗼)

•Alfred Rome C. Alba
•Joeffey Frannz C. Almaden
•Ulysses Francis F. Basa III
•Chloe Blanche A. dela Cruz
•Nimpsyreen Mhae P. Gerona
•Sophia Mae A. Gildo
•Myles Wyneth O. Salvo

The dedicated journalists who participated in the event will continue to hone their talents and skills to reach greater heights in the next Tacloban City DSPC.

Special recognition goes to advisers and coaches, Mr. Charisse B. Gadaingan, Ms. Camille N. Dumpang, and Ms. Laurence Kaye A. Ogsila for their unwavering support in nurturing the talents of The Point Journalists.

The ILS conquers yet again in their second participation in the DSPC and continues to display their talents in the field of journalism, highlighting the passion for paving the way for truth, showcasing creativity, and igniting discourse among young journalists at The Point Publication, true to its core tenets.

By Shiloh Esic, Reagan Leaño, Maxinne Platilla
Photos by Tazha Arcena, Bryce Poblete, Swayne Bardillon
Layout by Marianne Catuday

10/01/2025

𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊: The Pointers Gear Up for Upcoming DSPC 2025

January 7, 2024 — The Point Publication conducted Lecture-Workshop on Journalism to gear up for the forthcoming Divisions School Press Conference for S.Y. 2024-2025. The event featured time-served and talented speakers, Mr. Jaime C. Gravador Jr., News Reporter and Anchorman of K5 News FM Tacloban 103.1, and Ms. Allianah Jane A. Mariaca, LNU Social Science Instructor and former An Lantawan staff. They provided valuable perspectives on reporting and writing techniques and their personal journeys as journalists. The staff members of The Point expressed their sincere appreciation for the distinguished speakers and displayed excitement in gaining knowledge to enhance campus journalism.

The campus journalists are vigorously preparing for a strong return to this year's event.

Ready to make a point that will never disappoint! ✍️

Caption by Maxinne Platilla
Photos by Julianna Burre

31/12/2024

𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐲 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫, 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐞! 🎉

2025 is here, and it’s not just about making resolutions—it’s about making things happen. This year, let’s turn challenges into lessons, setbacks into comebacks, and moments of doubt into opportunities for growth. Let’s embrace the unknown with curiosity, take risks, and move forward with purpose. After all, it’s not about waiting for the perfect moment—it’s about creating it.

From all of us at The Point Publication, we wish you a year full of growth, courage, and the drive to turn all your dreams into reality. 🍾✨

Caption by Marianne Catuday
Pubmat by Joeffey Almaden

15/12/2024

𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝗳𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁… 𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻!🎄📖

Christmas is just around the corner, but before you can enjoy the holiday break, there’s one last hurdle: finals. ‘Break? Niyan na, exams anay!’ The holidays can wait, but clutching the semester? Not so much. 🎯

Take a deep breath, push through the final stretch, and keep your focus on the finish line. Stay focused, study hard, and remember—this too shall pass.

Good luck, Normalistas! The holidays will be waiting for you on the other side! 🎉

Caption by Marianne Catuday
Illustration by Jolie Nebrija
Layout by Kriztian Duzar, Herielle Margallo, Marianne Catuday

06/12/2024

𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞, 𝐇𝐨𝐩𝐞, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐉𝐨𝐲: 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐨 𝐡𝐚 𝐋𝐍𝐔

November 21, 2024—Leyte Normal University (LNU) once again welcomed the yuletide season with its annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony held at the ORC Quadrangle. The festive evening under the theme “Love, Hope, and Joy: Pasko ha LNU” began at 6:20 p.m. hosted by Mr. Jushua S. Marga.

The program officially started with the singing of the national anthem, a prayer song, and an opening production number by Muzik Harmonie, followed by a Christmas tribute performance by the LNU Dance Company.

In her heartfelt welcome address, LNU President Dr. Evelyn B. Aguirre reflected on the significance of this cherished four-year tradition. “I welcome you all to this cherished tradition at Leyte Normal University, our Christmas tree lighting ceremony,” she said. She emphasized the role of the event in fostering a strong community spirit and highlighted the deeper meaning behind the celebration. “This tree lighting is more than just a festive tradition or occasion. It is a reminder of the hope that carries us forward, the love that connects us, and the joy that we are privileged to share with one another.” She encouraged the audience to embrace gratitude and compassion during the holiday season, saying, “May the yuletide season bring more blessings and laughter. Advance Merry Christmas to each one of you!”

The program also featured a series of vibrant performances that captured the essence of Christmas. Muzik Harmonie and the Philharmonic Singers impressed the audience with their soulful Christmas melodies, setting a joyful tone for the evening. Despite earlier rainy conditions, the LNU Dance Company delivered a heartfelt storytelling dance performance using expressive movements to convey the true meaning of Christmas.

The highlight of the night was the official lighting of the Christmas tree. As Dr. Aguirre announced the much-anticipated moment, she declared, “Now, with great joy and excitement, we officially light our Christmas tree.” The lighting of the tree was met with enthusiastic applause and a palpable sense of excitement, which was further enhanced by a series of performances. The LNU Dance Company presented a lively rendition of “Kumukutikutitap,” while the LNU Hip Hop Generals wowed the audience with a dynamic hip-hop showcase.

The evening concluded on a high note with teachers and students gathering to take photos by the beautifully lit Christmas tree and the surrounding decorations, creating memories to cherish throughout the season.

As the event came to an end, students shared their thoughts on the celebration. A Junior High School student remarked, “I expect this season to be more cheerful.” A Senior High School student expressed nostalgia, saying, “I haven’t felt the Christmas air like this for so long. These colorful lights and lively performances made me feel nostalgic.” Another Senior High School student added, “It feels as if it’s already Christmas.”

Ultimately, the LNU family looks forward to a season filled with hope, love, and joy, carrying the spirit of this memorable event throughout the holidays.

By Haneef Sabiwang
Photos by Bryce Poblete

03/12/2024

25/11/2024

𝐁𝐞𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬: 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐅𝐮𝐞𝐥𝐬 𝐎𝐮𝐫 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧?

As the sun sets on another day, it marks the beginning of a new one—one filled with endless possibilities. With fresh faces joining the team and new energy filling the air, it’s the perfect time to reignite the spark that fuels our commitment to journalism. Since it’s training season, let’s take a moment to reflect on the true source of passion for those at the helm: The Executives of The Point Publication.

A journalist's job is to convey a story using truth as their prime source, but have you ever thought about the true story behind their journey into campus journalism? Have you ever wondered what serves as the primary source of their passion?

Well, wonder no more! As the executives of “The Point Publication” reveal what ignited the flame of journalism for them and the ways their drive orchestrated them into the world where they can most express it.

Caption by Kyra Dy
Cartoon by Marven Cervantes
Layout by Joeffey Almaden and Herielle Margallo

19/11/2024

𝐇𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒 | 𝐀𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝: 𝐀 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐅𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞, 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐚𝐥 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬

As we wrapped up our United Nations Month Celebration, on October 30, 2024, we honored the spirit of global unity and celebrated the best participants in every activity. The event came alive with a vibrant Parade of Nations and the dazzling Mr. and Ms. UNited Fashion Show, capturing the beauty of diversity and our shared commitment to a world together.

The UN Parade of Nations unfolded in the ORC Quadrangle, bringing together LNU-Integrated Laboratory School students from Kindergarten to Grade 12. Each grade level represented a different region, creating a colorful tapestry of cultures.

Kindergarteners embodied Africa, Grades 1 to 3 showcased South Africa, Grades 4 to 6 brought to life West and South Asia, Junior High School highlighted East and Southeast Asia, and Grade 12 celebrated the vibrant cultures of America.

Elise Ramos, Xynia Herbito, and Jezryl Ladipe shared their experiences at this year’s UN Parade, reflecting on the lively atmosphere and vibrant cultural displays. Elise described her experience, saying, “It was really hot, but fun man gihap at the same time.” This reflected the excitement many felt despite the warm weather.

Representing China, Xynia expressed her admiration for its rich cultural heritage, sharing, “I chose China because I admire their cultural heritage.” Meanwhile, Jezryl, when asked about her favorite part of the Parade, enthusiastically highlighted the creative and beautiful outfits, adding, “The outfits, of course, damo talaga an mag husay.”

At 1:00 PM, the HRDC Gymnasium came alive with the Culminating Activity and the Mister & Miss UNited Fashion Show. Representatives from Kindergarten to Grade 12 took the stage and each showcased traditional attire from their assigned continents.

This year's Mister & Miss UNited Fashion Show crowned Grade 12 HUMSS students Bradley Espina and Joeffey Almaden as the overall winners, Best in Fashion Runway, and the Darling of the Crowd awards as they proudly represented Mexico. Following closely, Grade 8 students Rainer Belicano and Kyllel Mendoza earned the 1st runner-up titles as they represented Indonesia and Thailand. Marven Cervantes and Sophia Claridad took the 2nd runner-up and showcased the vibrant culture of the Philippines. Additional awards went to Grade 12 STEM students Czarinah Yu and John Carlos Diaz, who received the Glamorous Award while representing Venezuela and the USA. Grade 6 students Aia Uribe and Franco Truelen won Best in Production Number, dazzling the crowd with their representation of India.

Allyssa Mendez, a Grade 10 audience member, praised the Grade 12 HUMSS class for their innovative use of recyclable materials in their costumes. “When I saw their costume, I noticed that they used a lot of recyclable materials such as sticks to create their headpieces and props,” she observed.

Joeffey Almaden, representing Mexico and crowned Miss UNited Fashion Show Winner 2024 from Grade 12 HUMSS, shared the deeper significance of this year’s Mister & Miss UNited Fashion Show for her. “Representing both my class and the country itself showcases values that promote the acceptance of every race, diversity, and unity,” she explained. “This event captures a celebration of love and soul as it reflects cultural richness and honors the celebration of living and remembrance.”

Sophia Claridad, a Grade 10 student and the Miss UNited Fashion Show 2nd runner-up representing the Philippines, expressed pride in her costume, stating, "I felt especially proud of the final costume outcome when it was finally all together, knowing that my classmates and the designer put in a lot of effort to make the costume look great as much as possible."

Marven Cervantes, also a Grade 10 student and the Mister UNited Fashion Show 2nd runner-up, shared the inspiration behind the design for him and his partner’s costumes. “In designing the costumes, I drew inspiration from Philippine mythology, specifically focusing on the Minokawa, a creature known for devouring the sun,” he explained. “I envisioned my partner, Sophia, as the Minokawa and myself as the Sun, aiming to convey a narrative that highlights these lesser-known myths. My goal was to share and celebrate our rich cultural heritage in a way that resonates with our generation.”

The Mister & Miss UNited Fashion Show was followed by the Culminating Activity, highlighting the best of the best from each activities during the UN Month Celebration. This grand finale brought together the standout moments, celebrating the creativity and spirit of unity that defined the entire month.

The quiz bee for Junior and Senior High School students took place on October 29, 2023, showcasing the academic talents of each participant. The Grade 12 HUMSS representatives, Marianne Rose Catuday, Reagan Gabrielle Leaño, Maxinne Joice Platilla, Caitlyn Zane Tan, and Santi Domini Mendiola, secured 1st place. They were followed closely by the 2nd place winners from Grade 12 STEM: Denise Roca, Alexis Rosales, John Carlo Balondo, Bryce Poblete, Chloe Blanche dela Cruz, and Dwyane Cañega. The Grade 9 team also performed admirably, taking 3rd place with the participants Chrian Peñalosa, Linus Cadiente, Arnold Alexei Dandan, and Xeyara Jem Molvizar. Concurrently, in a stunning performance at the Debate Open Grand Finals, Team Pooksters comprising Samantha Nicolette Merida, Maria Megan Roa, and Reagan Gabrielle Leaño outshone their competitors, capturing the championship title. Meanwhile, the Elementary Grand Finals Champion title went to Team Looksmaxxers, featuring Rafe Nathan Bofill, Calissa Kate E. Dayto, and Zoe Niña Tonette R. Cabillan.

Grade 7's Stall 7 claimed 1st place in the UNegosyo event, proudly showcasing the rich and flavorful culture of the Philippines. Meanwhile, Grade 12 STEM students Dwayne Cañega, Herielle Margallo, Bryce Poblete, John Anthony Pantas, and Ethan Polistico took 1st place in the TikTokWalk-A-Talk: SDG Video Challenge. Their inspiring video highlighted Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action, showcasing ways to promote environmental awareness and positive change.

The Elementary level Classroom-Based Activities winners were also announced. The Grades 1 to 3’s Ready, Set, Draw!: Poster Making Competition winners were the Grade 3 Group 1: Yoshebel, Tracy, Precious, Julienzo, Kyrie, Princess, Aieden, Franco, and Jarvis. Meanwhile, the Grade 4 to 6’s 𝘜𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬, 𝘜𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘬, 𝘜𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦: COOLlage Making winners were the Grade 5 Group 5: Aia, Jamiela, Achilles, Euan, Scharlene, Yohan, and Fritz.

By Christine Tante, Athena Sembrero, Denise Dignos
Photos by Swayne Bardillon

19/11/2024

𝐇𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒 | 𝐋𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝐔𝐍 𝐃𝐞𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐬

During the United Nations Month celebration, the Normalista Debate Cup (NDC) Finals were held in the CTE Building on October 29, 2024, at 5:00 PM with students from LNU College Debate Society, LNU-ILS Hinungdan Debate Society and along with Grade Level Representatives debated following the Modified Oxford-Oregon Format.

In the Elementary category of this finals debate tournament, Team Looksmaxxers and Team 6 divided by 2 were the ones competing for the winner spot of the tournament. These students debated on the motion that: THBT Environmentalists should exaggerate the effects of global warming. As the debate went on, each speaker used their persuasive words and strong arguments. The judges carefully watched, assessing not just what was said but also how well the debaters carried their points in this debate.

With every debater trying to convince the judges of their stance, Team Looksmaxxers was able to secure the victory in the debate. Their persuasive arguments and strong delivery ultimately convinced the judges, earning them the first spot in this year’s NDC Elementary category.

On the other side of the court, cheers and roars grew louder as the room was filled with students from different grade levels who went on and supported who they wanted to win. The two teams in the Open Finals, Team Pooksters (LNU-ILS) and Team Rhetorex (College) fought to sn**ch the golden champion spot in this tournament. They both strengthened their cases with the motion: THW replaced existing welfare systems, excluding healthcare, with a UBI, providing strong arguments to convince the chair and panel to take on their side.

However, as both teams fought a great battle, only one must be chosen as the victor. Wherein, the very own debaters from the LNU-ILS Grade 12 representatives, Team Pooksters, won this battle! Samantha Nicollete E. Merida, the Open Finals best speaker, further explained how she articulates her arguments to break the opposition’s case:

“Actually, there are a lot of strategies to use for debates. Just a matter of time, and critical thinking skills. One of the strategies I used for the opposition's side is that I usually ask them questions that are answered by a 'yes' or 'no' so that they won't have the energy — they won't have the liberty to defend themselves,” she confidently stated.

Further, as a way to conclude this exciting and thrilling debate tournament, here are the statements from the same interview with Samantha Nicollete E. Merida where she tells how her experience highlights this United Nations month celebration:

“Debate competitions can emphasize the UN Month Celebration in a way that students are able to be aware of the recent issues… the global issues that are a necessary tool for us humans to have our own pace of learning and personal growth as well.”

By Bianca Rosa, Denise Roca, Shiloh Esic
Pubmat by Herielle Margallo, Chelsea Eveth

19/11/2024

𝐇𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒 | 𝐀 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐛𝐞

Whenever the month of the United Nations comes around, there is always that one anticipated event the high school students of Leyte Normal University cannot miss.

During the monthly celebration of the United Nations, the JHS and SHS students of the Leyte Normal University - Integrated Laboratory School (LNU-ILS) embarked on a culinary trip around the world as they showcased their cooking skills and drive for business during the annual UN Negosyo last October 29 and 30, 2024.

From choosing their countries and picking out their menus, the ILS students worked tirelessly for weeks, strategically planning their businesses and making sure that everything went smoothly on the day of the event.

On the first day, October 29, the students came to school as early as they could to start setting up their stalls and the food they were going sell, this alone took some groups over 1 to 2 hours to finish since all of the food preparation and decorations they had to set up. Due to a lack of knowledge and organization, some groups had a rocky start. Some forgot their materials, some underestimated their time to prepare their food, some were having difficulty in cooking, some had malfunctions with their equipment, and some did not even know what to do when a customer approached them.

All this led to some students becoming hot-headed and this even led to bickering, but eventually, they all realized that taking on a food business requires more than just food. “One of the things I've learned is patience. As much as patience is needed in life in general since I'm the leader and coordinating with a lot of people I've learned to extend patience because if you don't extend your patiences, it's very eminent na magkakaada kamo hin damo na fights, etc.,” said by Diana Durango, a 10th grade student when asked what she learned from the experience.

As the day flew by, the ILS students received more and more orders as lunchtime slowly approached. At around 10 a.m. in the morning, a few teachers visited every stall on the covered walk and observed and judged every group's station and business management because believe it or not, the UN Negosyo was not only an activity, it was also a competition! So, the students tried the best they could to sell all of their products to potentially be declared as the champion.

Soon enough, the JHS and SHS students did their best to work more efficiently, and when the afternoon rolled in, they were able to get lots of orders from a lot of people roaming around the school campus and to get more orders, some groups even went around the school grounds themselves to promote their food and to encourage customers to buy. When the day ended, the students cleaned up their stations to prepare for day 2 of their UN Negosyo.

When the 2nd day came, it was definitely less chaotic than the first. The students were way more relaxed and organized. Since they already knew what to expect, they made sure not to repeat the mistakes they made during day one, so that their negosyos would run more smoothly.

Only a few groups continued on with their negosyos as it was no longer mandatory. The stalls that opened on October 30th were stalls 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 12 to gain more income and to finish what was left of their food supply. The students continued to sell for the rest of the morning and some stalls finally closed up around 2-3 pm in the afternoon, but stall 2, Omsimnida by the 9th grade went on the whole afternoon until the evening.

That same afternoon was the announcement of the winners of the UN Negosyo. Stall number 7, Hiraya of the grade 7 students, triumphed with the Philippines as their country. Their best sellers, ice scramble and tusok-tusok, dominated the whole event as it was amplified by their teamwork which eventually led them to victory.

The UN Negosyo is not just an activity for the students, it's also a learning experience for all of them. A grade 7 student, shared her experience at handling their first ever UN Negosyo. She said the experience was stressful but enjoyable. During the interview, she also shared what she learned from the event. “I’ve learned from UN Negosyo that it’s very important to be very organized and be ready. Kailangan talaga na listed down everything.”

The UN Negosyo also taught the students to be responsible in the financial field. “UN Negosyo can help students learn to be financially responsible when it comes to owning a business,” said by a 10th grade student, Makayla Crisostomo, in response to how the UN Negosyo is helpful for the students in the future.

This kind of activity not only aims to teach students about the different cultures of countries around the world but also aims to serve as a practical preparation for those who want to find themselves in the business field in the future.

By Kyra Dy, Allyssa Mendez, and Zhya Solteo

Photos by Marianne Catuday, Julianne Burre, and Shereez Urgel

19/11/2024

𝐇𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒 | 𝐁𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐬: 𝐋𝐍𝐔-𝐈𝐋𝐒 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐞𝐭𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐍 𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐳 𝐁𝐞𝐞

A celebration of unified wits — On October 29, 2024, the UN Month Celebration at the Leyte Normal University-Integrated Laboratory School (LNU-ILS) conducted a war of wits competition, the UN Quiz Bee. The event was held at 10 a.m. at the Student Center and was attended by students from the Junior and Senior High School departments.

The competition included three rounds: an easy round with 10 questions worth 1 point each, the moderate round with 10 questions worth 2 points, and finally, the difficult round with 10 questions worth 5 points each. The easy round had 10 questions and was worth 1 point each and two representatives were up for competition from every grade level. Scores at this round set a stage for the subsequent rounds, where Grade 12 STEM scored 5 points, Grade 12 HUMSS earned 6 points, Grade 10 achieved 7 points, Grade 9 also scored 7 points, Grade 7 got 3 points, and Grade 6 accumulated 4 points. This was followed by the moderate round from which three students from each grade answered another set of 10 questions, this time worth 2 points each. At this round, Grade 12 STEM and Grade 12 HUMMS tied at 16 points, the same number as Grades 10 and 9. The total scores for Grades 7 and 6 were 10 and 14, respectively. The combined scores from the two rounds determined which teams could advance to the challenging round, wherein only the first four teams qualified. From the final scores, Grade 12 HUMSS was the first with a total score of 22 points, Grade 12 STEM came next with 21 points, and Grades 9 and 10 tied with 23 points each.

In the difficult round, one representative from each qualifying grade tackled another set of challenging questions in line with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, which were worth 5 points each. Here, Grade 12 HUMSS excelled with a remarkable score of 35 points, while Grade 12 STEM secured second place with a score of 25 points. Grades 9 and 10 each scored 20 points, leading to an exciting tiebreaker for third place, with Grade 9 triumphing through the nail-biting moment by answering the third tiebreaker question correctly.

The final standings of the said competition were a testament to the academic prowess of the students as Grade 12 HUMSS took up the top spot, hailed as champions, followed by Grade 12 STEM taking first place, Grade 9 as second placers, and Grade 10 finishing third.

The UN Quiz Bee is one of the highlights for the celebration of United Nations Month for it ignites the minds of the youth and unites them through fostering a spirit of camaraderie. Through this event, the LNU-ILS continues to nurture a culture of learning and engagement among its students during UN Month by celebrating their potential contributions as beacons of hope for the future.

By Maxinne Platilla, Kirstine Mendoza, Sophia Gildo
Photos by Bradley Espina

19/11/2024

𝐇𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐋𝐈𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒 | 𝐃𝐞𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐇𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐇𝐚𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐝𝐞: 𝐇𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐝𝐚𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐞𝐭𝐲 𝐇𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐬 𝐋𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥-𝐖𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭

LNU-ILS Hinungdan Debate Society (HDS) commenced the first-ever iteration of the Normalista Debate Cup (NDC) from October 28 to October 29, 2024. The rollout of the tournament began as early as the 2nd of October as they teased the tournament on their page. With preparations that included a stellar adjudication core and invitations to impeccable debaters to serve as judges, the tournament was set to make LNU history as the first-ever school-wide tournament for both ILS and College Debaters.

The tournament itself consisted of debaters from HDS and LNU College Debater Society members, with grade-level representatives from the ILS, the tournament was overseen by two of the best debaters in the Eastern Visayas Debate circuit: John Lorenz S. Lesiguez and Wilben Sebastian A. Ong.

The two-day event began with introductions to both aforementioned Chief Adjudication Panel (CAPs) along with the tournament briefing slides at the Student Center. With four preliminary rounds on the line, the competition officially starts with motions that range from Education to Artificial Intelligence that tackled the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). On the days of the event, wits and ideals clashed along the corridors of the ORC, this is what HDS Deputy Prime Minister Mary Diana C. Durango had to say regarding the experience:

"I felt very nervous, totally the truth I wasn't ano, I wasn't prepared fully. While I was sitting in the convening hall for day one, I was still finishing my round 3 affirmative and negative speeches and I was very panicky while doing that because I needed all my speeches ready by then, so I won't have any more problems going forward. Pero you could say that it really helped me with what I could focus on. So yeah, nervous, panicky, but it was exciting, and very skill bringing.”

The tournament was the very first of its nature in Leyte Normal University. Although there were attempts to host debate competitions in the past, most notably the precursor of NDC which was the UN Month Debaters, NDC not only encompassed both ILS and College but also had a similar bracketing system reminiscent of many major regional and national debate tournaments happening in the Philippines.

As the event concluded on the 29th of October, this is what HDS Peace Officer Richard R. Gappi had to say regarding advice to future debaters:

"Don't ever stray from the path you've chosen. I know several debaters who've kept failing in their tournaments, didn't have any mentors or teachers to help them, or didn't have anyone with them throughout their debate journey, but that strife is exactly what strengthens those debaters today. The struggle and perseverance one goes through is what truly gives them the foundation of confidence and strength for themselves and for what's to come."

By Jose Lumaniog, Shiprah Manjeron
Photos by Fernando Santos