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The Prism, Tacloban City (2024)

23/12/2023

𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞

In the bustling halls of the university, where ambition meets expectation, a silent crisis is brewing.

Exhausted eyes, sleep-deprived smiles, days bleed into nights, fueled by caffeine and desperation. Students, juggling mountains of coursework, extracurricular commitments, and the ever-present pressure to excel, are buckling under the weight of stress. With their mental health bearing the brunt of the burden.

Imagine waking up to the incessant chirping of an alarm clock, not just signaling the start of another day, but the commencement of a marathon of deadlines, exams, and presentations. This is the reality for millions of students worldwide, their schedules overflowing with academic obligations that leave little room for anything else. Sleep becomes a luxury, meals become rushed affairs, and social interactions dwindle to fleeting exchanges between classes.

The constant pressure to perform, fueled by an environment obsessed with grades and rankings, creates a toxic cocktail of anxiety and self-doubt. The fear of failure looms large, casting a shadow over every homework assignment and test scores. This relentless stress manifests in a myriad of ways: sleepless nights, crippling anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and even physical symptoms like headaches and digestive issues.

The impact on mental health is undeniable. Studies have shown a strong correlation between academic pressure and increased rates of depression, anxiety, and even suicidal ideation. The pressure to excel can become so overwhelming that students lose sight of their own well-being, neglecting their physical and emotional needs in pursuit of academic validation.

Students must remember that their worth is not defined by grades or test scores. Seeking help when overwhelmed is not a sign of weakness, but a testament to strength and self-awareness. Engaging in self-care practices, prioritizing sleep and relaxation, and building strong support networks are essential for navigating the academic landscape without compromising mental health.

The pursuit of knowledge should not come at the cost of one's well-being. It is time to break free from the shackles of academic pressure and prioritize the mental health of our students. Let us foster learning environments that nurture not just academic excellence, but also healthy minds and resilient spirits. Only then can we truly equip students to succeed, not just in the classroom, but in life.

✍️: M. A. Pajarilla |The Prism Publication Feature
💻: A. M. Alfaro |The Prism Publication Creatives
Edited by: M. Pasalo

23/12/2023

𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞 𝟔.𝟐 𝐄𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐪𝐮𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡𝐰𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐚

Beijing, China– Just before midnight struck on December 18, Monday a magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck northwestern China.

It can be considered as the deadliest quake in the nation in nine years.

The strong earthquake that happened left at least 118 people, more than 700 individuals are injured, homes turned into rubble, damage roads closed, loss of communication lines and electricity outlines due to the 6.2 magnitude earthquake of the remote mountainous region area of Qinghai and Gansu provinces of northwestern China.

Authorities immediately mobilized emergency rescue team units to evacuate citizens who were affected and retrieve missing persons.
However, the harsh sub-zero conditions made it hard for the rescuers to search and treat possible survivors.

Earthquakes are common in western provinces such as Gansu which lie on the eastern boundary of the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau, a tectonically active area.

China’s deadliest quake in recent decades was in 2008 when a magnitude-8.0 temblor struck Sichuan, killing nearly 70,000 people.
The epicenter was 5 km from the border between Gansu and a neighboring province, Qinghai, where strong tremors were also felt.

✍️: M.J. Dela Rea |The Prism Publication News
💻: D. Calo |The Prism Publication Creatives

22/12/2023

𝐌𝐲 𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐞𝐫

When I was young,
the radio was my companion,
Mesmerized by the music,
Oh, the excitement I felt,
The play of words,
rolled smoothly from her
The clarity of her voice,
echoed in the vastness of my mind.

When she starts talking—
Goosebumps rising.
The way she speaks,
Brings life to my imagination
The aura she carries, hypnotized me
Became my motivation and inspiration.

Endlessly wondering,
'How professional is she',
Clear and coherent as she speaks
Enthralls me
A thought keeps running,
'can I do the same?'
'Can I be like them?'
A never ending dream

Years of experience,
Carries insights and knowledge
expectations rise than expected
A privilege of her help

Finally saw her
We took a picture—
Such a treasure,
I would keep—
In my heart so deep.

✍️:R. Viñas |The Prism Publication Literary
💻:A. M. Suyom |The Prism Publication Creatives

22/12/2023

𝐔𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐭 𝐊𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐢𝐝𝐨𝐬𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐞

a multifaceted world
where variants of reality diverge
a collection of illusories
to get a full view
a sole lense won't do

a world irrevocably paradoxical
with a myriad of irregularities
broken in a way
a specified lense wouldn't even suffice
let alone one that is unwiped.

✍️:C. N. Ladrera |The Prism Publication Literary
💻: A. M. Suyom |The Prism Publication Creatives

22/12/2023

𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍𝐒 𝐑𝐈𝐒𝐄 𝐈𝐍 𝐖𝐄𝐒𝐓 𝐏𝐇𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐏𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐄 𝐒𝐄𝐀 𝐎𝐕𝐄𝐑 𝐂𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐄 𝐕𝐄𝐒𝐒𝐄𝐋 𝐀𝐓 𝐀𝐘𝐔𝐍𝐆𝐈𝐍 𝐒𝐇𝐎𝐀𝐋

The ongoing territorial disputes over Philippines and China is still on the rise as new reports about one of several Chinese vessels photographed by the Western Command loitering around the Ayungin Shoal on Thursday (Dec. 14, 2023). This latest movement of China have prompted some experts to prematurely conclude that it’s not just an attempt to trespass rather, it has launched full-fledged invasion of the West Philippine Sea.

According to the Western Command (Wescom), despite heightened concerns raised by some security experts, Puerto Princesa Palawan do not consider the swarming of Chinese vessels in the Ayungin Shoal as invasion.

“As far as we are concerned, what we are seeing on the ground are the same old swarming tactics employed by the Chinese," Wescom spokesperson, Commander Ariel Coloma added.

In an article written by maritime security expert and former United States (US) defense official Ray Powell, calling Beijing’s increased presence in the disputed waters an “invasion”, Coloma stated that the entry of Chinese vessels into the shoal's interior is a rare event, potentially constituting an "unprecedented" development and urged the author to explain his basis for using the term "invasion" in his article for it has led many to believe that the already tense situation in the West Philippine Sea has escalated even further.

Within the vicinity of Ayungin Shoal there is a single China Coast Guard (CCG) ship lingering in the area along with other nearby stationed CMM Chinese maritime militia vessels, a pattern consistent with conventional Chinese swarming strategy.

As a response to the situation Coloma stated that “We have air and surface assets currently patrolling the area. This is in addition to the littoral monitoring station aboard BRP Sierra Madre. We have been deploying our troops to try to confront these Chinese vessels,” Coloma added.

He then stated that higher headquarters will decide whether a stronger response by the Armed Forces of the Philippines is warranted.

(Photo courtesy of Wescom)

✍️: J. M. Avelino / The Prism Publication News
💻: D. Calo/ The Prism Publication Creatives

22/12/2023

𝐋𝐮𝐧𝐚

Alone under the sky— wondering,
Watching the sea— pondering,
As my eyes land that ethereal beauty,
You glow so bright, filling me.

My heart that has experienced the worst,
In this world of unending loathe,
You make it bright,
By your unending light.

Your light, my solace.
My anxiety feels peace,
Your light, my safe place,
My worries feel at ease.

Your light is my anchor,
Thy presence that devours,
Your beauty — timeless,
You— priceless.

The haven in my the darkest of night
The shelter who keeps me alright
By your light, wipe away my anxious tears
And lighten up away my fears.

✍️: J.A. Paquiding / The Prism Publication Literary
💻: A. M. Suyom / The Prism Publication Creatives

22/12/2023

𝐂𝐚𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞

There is much more to say,
but I stayed silent.
Trying to be okay,
hampering moans that are strident.

With emotions suppressed,
tears poured like a cloudburst.
As though life is cursed,
to have everything of worst.

One moments of happiness,
for a season of despair.
Craving for calmness,
through this arduous affair.

With the moon as a spectator,
of my woeful nights.
Reminiscing our every endeavor,
feeling fits of delight.

✍️: J. A. Palacio /The Prism Publication Literary
💻A. M. Suyom /The Prism Publication Creatives

22/12/2023

𝐁𝐋𝐀𝐂𝐊𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓, 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐁𝐄𝐒𝐓!

In an intense elimination round match at the Rizal Memorial Stadium, Blacklist International emerged victorious with a 3-1 win over Geek Fam in the M5 World Championship. The Blacklist International team showcased their resilience by securing three thrilling comeback victories after losing Game 1 to a determined Indonesian squad.

Geek Fam started strong in Game 1, dominating Blacklist’s side lanes and causing early deaths for Kiel “Oheb” Soriano. With an impressive 11,000 gold lead, Geek Fam seemed poised for victory. However, the tide turned in favor of Blacklist after taking down Manuel “Nnael” Simbolon and executing a lord take, allowing them to swiftly destroy Geek Fam’s turrets in less than two minutes.

Blacklist International continued their winning streak, ultimately sending Geek Fam home. The Geek Fam team, led by two Filipinos, Allen “Baloyskie” Baloy and Mark “Markyyy” Capacio, had an impressive run, securing their qualification for the world championship and making their first-ever MPL Indonesia finals appearance.

Unfortunately, Geek Fam faced a setback in the playoffs when Nnael received a two-game suspension for an inappropriate gesture during their group stage match against European team Deus Vult.

Blacklist International will now face Deus Vult in the next round, who advanced after a nail-biting 3-2 victory against Cambodian representatives SeeYouSoon. The match is scheduled for Saturday morning at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

In another M5 action, Deus Vult showcased their resilience by coming back from a 2-game deficit to eliminate SeeYouSoon. This achievement marks a historic moment for the European, Middle East, and Central Asia region, solidifying Deus Vult’s dark horse status against a strong Cambodian team. Carl “Carvi” Tinio, Eduard “Magistor” Rukosuev, and Kemiran “Sunset Lover” Kochkarov stood out as key players in Deus Vult’s comeback, earning MVP honors in all three wins.

✍️: P. Serdeña |The Prism Publication Sports
💻: D. Costa |The Prism Publication Creatives

22/12/2023

𝐒𝐚𝐧 𝐁𝐞𝐝𝐚 𝐔𝐧𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐂𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐕𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐍𝐂𝐀𝐀 𝐌𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝟑, 𝐌𝐚𝐩𝐮𝐚’𝐬 𝐇𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 𝐃𝐚𝐬𝐡𝐞𝐝

San Beda University emerged as the champions of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Season 99 men’s basketball finals after a thrilling showdown against Mapua University. In a game filled with intensity and excitement, San Beda secured a 76-66 victory in the decisive Game 3, leaving Mapua’s championship dreams shattered.

The clash between San Beda and Mapua on Sunday, December 17, at the Araneta Coliseum showcased the determination and skill of both teams. San Beda’s Red Lions showcased their dominance, claiming their 23rd championship title in NCAA men’s basketball history. Their remarkable performance throughout the season culminated in a resounding victory in the finals.

Coach Yuri Escueta of San Beda expressed his admiration for the players dedication and perseverance. He acknowledged the challenges they faced and praised their ability to overcome adversity. Escueta, who was awarded Coach of the Year, commended the team’s hard work and resilience.

Yukien Andrada of the San Beda Red Lions delivered an outstanding performance in the crucial game. He contributed 20 points, including 18 crucial points in the closing minutes, along with 6 rebounds and 2 steals. Mapua struggled to maintain their momentum, allowing San Beda to seize the opportunity and claim the championship.

With this victory, San Beda extended their lead over the Letran Knights, who hold 20 titles, cementing their status as one of the most successful teams in NCAA men’s basketball history. On the other hand, Mapua showcased their strength throughout the season but fell short of clinching the championship. They finished tied for fifth place with the JRU Heavy Bombers, both with six titles each.

The triumph of the San Beda Red Lions in Game 3 of the NCAA Season 99 men’s basketball finals reflects their unwavering determination and hard work. Their relentless pursuit of excellence paid off with a well-deserved championship win, solidifying their legacy in NCAA men’s basketball history.

✍️: J. M. Deymos |The Prism Publication Sports
💻: D. Costa |The Prism Publication Creatives

22/12/2023

𝐒𝐚𝐧 𝐁𝐞𝐝𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡'𝐬 𝐁𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐌𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐏𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐎𝐟𝐟 𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐫𝐮𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐆𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝟐

In a stunning turn of events, San Beda's head coach made a strategic decision to start rookie AJ Royo in Game 2 alongside the team's seasoned players. This marked Royo's first-ever starting role in the season, and Coach Escueta revealed the interesting reason behind this choice.

"Natulog ako nang maaga nung Friday ng gabi, natulog ako ng 8:00, napanaginipan ko na ini-start ko siya eh, kaya stinart ko siya today," Escueta shared after the Red Lions' win last Sunday.

It turns out that Coach Escueta had a dream where he saw Royo excelling in the starting lineup. Trusting his instincts, he implemented this change in their game plan, and it proved to be a game-changer.

Facing off against Mapua's formidable guards, Royo showcased his composure and held his ground, contributing six points, three rebounds, three assists, and a steal. His defensive skills were also on display, as he made significant contributions in stopping Mapua's backcourt.

"𝑯𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒆 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒃𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓, 𝒃𝒖𝒕 𝒘𝒆 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒆 𝒃𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆. 𝑯𝒆'𝒔 𝒂 𝒔𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒇𝒓𝒐𝒎 𝒑𝒍𝒂𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒏 𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒈𝒆 𝒊𝒏 𝑫𝒂𝒗𝒂𝒐 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒗𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒐𝒖𝒔 𝒕𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒔," 𝒂𝒅𝒅𝒆𝒅 𝑪𝒐𝒂𝒄𝒉 𝑬𝒔𝒄𝒖𝒆𝒕𝒂.

This bold move by San Beda's coach paid off, as they secured a hard-fought 71-65 victory. The team's trust in Royo's abilities and his impactful performance proved to be a key factor in their success.

✍️M. A. Telimban | The Prism Publication Sports
💻D. Costa | The Prism Publication Creatives

22/12/2023

𝐓𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐒𝐲𝐦𝐩𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐲: 𝐀 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐯𝐚𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐞𝐬.

Guessing that most of us would agree that sometimes it is a tiring world; it is tiring when responsibilities, expectations, and dreams burst into reality like shoppers on the day before Christmas.

It is tiring when you feel like you are running out of time, running out of air, and left behind like unwanted merchandise waiting for a landfill. It is tiring when you are unhappy, worn out, and lost; navigating your way through a stream of pushcarts.

It is tiring to be wearing white, standing still; watching a movie about strangers roaming around. It is tiring how those brown, lifeless boxes pile up and are still pulled by gravity. It is a tiring world indeed, and we need more of these smiles.

✍️&📸: Scott C. Alonzo | The Prism Publication Creatives
💻: M. Aballe | The Prism Publication Creatives

22/12/2023

𝐌𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐄 𝐌. 𝐀𝐋𝐔𝐍𝐀𝐍: 𝐀 𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐀𝐂𝐘
𝐎𝐅 𝐕𝐈𝐒𝐀𝐘𝐀𝐍 𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄

"𝐸𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝓈𝑒𝒸𝓇𝑒𝓉 𝑜𝒻 𝒶 𝓌𝓇𝒾𝓉𝑒𝓇'𝓈 𝓈𝑜𝓊𝓁, 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝑒𝓍𝓅𝑒𝓇𝒾𝑒𝓃𝒸𝑒 𝑜𝒻 𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝓁𝒾𝒻𝑒, 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝓆𝓊𝒶𝓁𝒾𝓉𝓎 𝑜𝒻 𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝓂𝒾𝓃𝒹, 𝒾𝓈 𝓌𝓇𝒾𝓉𝓉𝑒𝓃 𝓁𝒶𝓇𝑔𝑒 𝒾𝓃 𝒽𝒾𝓈 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓀𝓈."
-𝒱𝒾𝓇𝑔𝒾𝓃𝒾𝒶 𝒲𝑜𝑜𝓁𝒻

A poet, a mother, a mentor, and an educator- all embodied in one woman.
Merlie M. Alunan is a Filipina poet, also known as the "Mother of Waray-Waray Poetry". Was once in the middle of solitude when she found herself reading and writing poetry. The life experiences of Ms. Alunan have never been easy. Without any support as a single mother, she still paved the way for her success. Her story proves that hardships do not mean ruining one's individuality, rather it builds one into a great masterpiece.

In May of 1983, she arrived in Ormoc City from Cebu after living in with her then husband, and her life there did not go well. Despite the obstacles Alunan was facing, and the uncertainties, she did not let the chance to brood on being broken. And in June, of the same year, she was hired as a professor at the University of the Philippines in Visayas-Tacloban College. However, she was still in the process of healing and finding the courage to step away from her comfort zone. The opportunities and her destiny to become a poet have made way to where she is now.

Together with fellow Waray literature scholars and poets, they held the first Creative Writing Workshop. Alunan also explored different writing fellowships as a recipient from the UP Creative Writing Center. She also gave life to her poems using different languages which makes it undeniably unique and interesting. During those years, her poetry started to receive recognition from prestigious award-giving bodies. Her collections of poems entitled 'Poems for Amina' won first prize in the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature.

In 2010, she also received the award, 'Ananda Coomaraswamy Fellowship in Literature' from the Sahitya Akademia. Wherein she gave lectures in different universities in India. The 'Ani Ng Dangal' from the National Commission for Culture and Arts in 2014 with her most recent poetry collection, 'Running the Ghost' won the National Book Award for Poetry in 2018.

Alunan is more than just an English writer. She is also known for advocating the use of our own native language most especially when crafting literary works. She is now a professor Emeritus in University of the Philippines and awarded upon her retirement in 2008. Without doubt, she deserves the manifold recognitions. The mind-opening collections of her poems are proof that she can regenerate language and make it sing.

She is, indeed, The Timeless Legacy of Literature.

✍️C. J. Lorica / The Prism Publication Feature
💻A. M. Alfaro / The Prism Publication Creatives
Edited by: M. Pasalo

22/12/2023

𝐈 𝐚𝐦 𝐌𝐲 𝐎𝐰𝐧 𝐏𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧

I am my own person.

Whenever I would be angry at my parents,
they would say,
'They're still your parents',
Even if you turn the world around,
They would still be,
Why can't it be—
Even if they turn the world around,
I am still their child,
That I am,
My own person

Whenever I make a wish,
For a bittersweet end,
They would say,
'There are people who wants to live longer',
How dare I throw mine?
Why can't I!?
I am different from them—
I am my own person.

They would get angry by my answers.
Would say that I am a sinner.
So, what?
I am my own person.

We have a different perspective,
You are your own
And so am I–
I live for my own,
And so do you,
You have your own struggles,
And so do I.

I am my own person.
I make my own decisions,
I decide who I am for my life,
Because—
I am my own person.

✍️ D.M. Baronda | The Prism Publication Literary
💻A. M. Suyom | The Prism Publication Creatives

22/12/2023

𝐁𝐓𝐒 𝐌𝐄𝐌𝐁𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐉𝐈𝐌𝐈𝐍 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐉𝐔𝐍𝐆𝐊𝐎𝐎𝐊 𝐋𝐀𝐒𝐓 𝐓𝐎 𝐁𝐄𝐆𝐈𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄𝐈𝐑 𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐘 𝐒𝐄𝐑𝐕𝐈𝐂𝐄

SEOUL-- On December 12, Jimin and Jungkook are the last members of the widely known K-Pop group, BTS, to enlist for the mandatory military service. Jin, who enlisted a year before reunited with the two on their enlistment day.

The two members entered the boot camp at the 5th Infantry Division located in Yeoncheon Gyeonggi province.

In order to avoid accidents caused by traffic, BTS' agency reminds their fans not to go to the training center before the members’ scheduled enlistment. The fans, on the other hand, sent buses bearing supportive messages and put-up placards and posters close to the training facility.

"As we are going together, I'll depend a lot on Jungkook," BTS member Jimin stated during his most recent live stream on Weverse. He also displayed his shaved hair and added, "I'll do my best and will come back healthy."

In addition to thanking all of their fans for their support, Jungkook said, "My life has been busy," on December 8 of last year. I was content with my work because of you."

As an alternative to serving in the military due to a prior shoulder injury, BTS Suga began serving as a social service agent in September 2023. The oldest member of BTS, Jin, enlisted in the military in December 2022, followed by J-Hope in April 2023. On December 11, 2023, RM and V began their mandatory military training.

After serving their time in the military, the widely recognized group will finish their service in June 2025.

✍️: M. R. A. Castillano |The Prism Publication News
💻: D. Calo |The Prism Publication Creatives
Edited by: A. Batula and M. J. Dela Rea

21/12/2023

𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐦𝐢𝐝𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐮𝐬𝐡 𝐨𝐟 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐬: 𝐉𝐨𝐲 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐥 𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐣𝐚’𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐋𝐄𝐓 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐫

Joy Pearl Naraja, a Leyte Colleges (LC) graduate, under the Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Filipino, proves that ravens of bees cannot clobber the mind of a person brimming with grit and alacrity.

Joy Pearl Naraja is a newly licensed teacher, who passed the September 2023 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LET).

Way back in 2018, like other students wishing to get into college. Joy Pearl Naraja had also dreamed of getting into her dream university. She applied to Leyte Normal University (LNU), hoping she would pass and be fully admitted. Unfortunately, she was not able to pass the university’s entrance exam. Despite not getting in her dream university, the interest of finishing her studies in order she reach her goals, she had decided to apply to Leyte Colleges.

With the help of the scholarship Tertiary Education Subsidy (TES) offered by the Commission of Education (CHED), she had weathered financial adversity and was able to pay her tuition fee every semester. In the year of 2022, she finally graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Secondary Education Major in Filipino in Leyte Colleges. She was scheduled to take the Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers in March 2023, but it was postponed due to a problem with her transcript of records. Instead of taking the exam in March, she took it on September 24, 2023.

“March taker talaga ako. Dara nga an akon TOR nagkaproblema, waray ak makag-take han March” (I am really a March taker. Due to some problems with my TOR, I was unable to take in March), Joy Pearl said.

She was buzzed with stern comments from people; as others thought, she took the 2023 March Licensure Examination for Teachers and did not pass. With this, she was strikingly compared to others. But amidst the flames and grating wounds, she remained steadfast, and continued to pursue by keeping her vision and yearn to live. With the succor of her family, she drew strength from them, giving her a strong motivation to review tirelessly despite being confronted by a bundle of discomfort and anxiety.

Prior to the board examination, her faith in God had led her to pray tenaciously, humbly asking God to give her wisdom so that she would make it to the list of the LET passers. She believes that with prayers, everything she has asked for hoped that it would be fulfilled.

Joy Pearl stated that, “Bisan dre ka gud kumpiyansa, pag ampo talaga, waray kundi pag ampo..kay Hiya it labi nga maaram han ngatanan.” (Even if you don't have confidence, just pray, there's is nothing else but pray...because he knows everything).

With her endless prayers and unwavering persistence and tenacity. She received good news, on the 7th of December, year 2023, as the results were being unfolded, Joy Pearl's prayer was finally granted; she indeed passed the board exam. She was thankful to God and was thrilled with joy for the graces and blessings bestowed upon her. She shared her favorite verse, which she always holds everyday: A Bible verse from Mark 11:24: “Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.”

Joy Pearl’s story served as a beacon of hope for everyone, especially for those aspiring teachers who are drowning in disbelief and fear. She proves that dreams are achievable at all costs, if you only put your mind and heart on them.

✍️A. Viñas / The Prism Publication Feature
💻A. M. Alfaro / The Prism Publication Creatives
Edited by: M. Pasalo and M. J. Dela Rea

20/12/2023

𝐒𝐔𝐒𝐏𝐄𝐂𝐓 𝐀𝐑𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐎𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐌𝐔𝐑𝐃𝐄𝐑 𝐎𝐅 𝐀 𝟕-𝐘𝐄𝐀𝐑 𝐎𝐋𝐃 𝐁𝐎𝐘

TACLOBAN CITY– Pamela Vergara-Gaspan poured out her emotions in a heartfelt social media post on Facebook as the suspect in the tragic killing of her 7-year-old nephew was finally apprehended.
The devastating incident unfolded when the child went missing on December 14 and was reported on the same day. The heart-wrenching discovery of the child's lifeless body occurred the following day, December 15, during the desperate search.

The suspect, identified as Kevin Lapu-Lapu, a 27-year-old resident of Leyte, Leyte, has been taken into custody in connection with the crime.

The investigation revealed that Aaron, the young victim, had followed Lapu-Lapu after the suspect promised to give the child a spider as a gift.

Pamela Vergara-Gaspan stated in her post, "Waray tabon-tabon, Ipakita ko ha iyo tanan kon ano ka panulay ini na KRIMINAL!!! Kevin Lapu-Lapu. Gi-hangyo namon, halos muluhod kami ha iya atubangan, ibalik la nya an amon mahal na he Aaron. Pero Huwebes pala ngay-an han alas 4, gin-patay mo na an bata.” (No more hiding, I will show to all what kind of CRIMINAL you are!!! Kevin Lapu-Lapu. We begged, almost kneeling in front of him, for him to return our beloved Aaron. But on Thursday, at around 4 PM, you murdered him.)

“An inosente nga bata na umupod la ha imo, kay imo gipasarigan na tagaan mo hin damang. Siring ko, imo gi-gutom na hi Aaron, i-uli na hubakon pa an bata. Amo ngayan na imo nala gin-lipat-lipat an istorya, tungod waray na hi Aaron. Grabe ka! Panulay ka na kriminal ka.” (That innocent child who just wanted to be with you because he believed you would give him a spider. Instead, you heartlessly starved Aaron, as if returning the child was too much to ask. Now you're shifting the story, all because Aaron is no longer here. How heartless! You're not just a criminal, you're a monster.)

She also added, "Imo pagud gin-upay pag-suksok para mahulog an bata ha pangpang. Maupay nala diri musugot he Aaron, na diri namon hiya mapa-himotang na diri nya maka-uli ha balay 😭. Usa namon hiya nakit-an, mayda pa shumagit nga bata hin tawag hin mama, pero nabati gud namon na tingog ni Aaron adto gin-gamit la an bata para maka-siring hiya na 'Mama adi la ako didi.’ (You carefully hid him to make him fall off the cliff. Aaron was wise not to agree to stay with you, and that we should be successful in bringing him home. We found him once with another child calling for his mother, but we heard Aaron's voice, using the child to say, 'Mama, I'm here.)

"Huwebes han alas-4 ito, an mga oras na namamalit akon regalo para akan mga pag-umangkon. An iya mga kabugtoan, akon na napalitan, pero hiya la an gikukurian ako pag-pili, labi na han bado ngan sarwal, kay adi ha akon utok nga polo shirt na puti an akon paliton para iya ky malimpyo hiya kitaon na bata. Amo na ngayan ito na mga oras na gin-tapos han demonyo an imo kinabuhi… hagoi be, kay ano man nagpdara ka!” (Thursday at 4 PM, the time I was buying gifts for my nieces and nephews. His siblings' gifts were ready, but only his was hard for me to choose, especially the shirt and trousers, because in my mind, he'd look cleaner and more presentable in a white polo shirt. Now, these hours were when the devil ended your life... Hagoi be! Why did you let him?)

“Waray kabutangan an sakit na imo nahatag ha amon pamilya, na demonyo ka! Maupay gud an imo pagka-plano, gin-hulat mo gud na mulakat kami ni Randy para mahimo nimo an imo plano. KRIMINAL KA!” (No words can describe the pain you've caused to our family, you demon! Your plan was well thought out; you waited for Randy and me to leave so you could carry out your sinister plot. You're a CRIMINAL!)

✍️:A. Batula |The Prism Publication News
💻:D. Calo |The Prism Publication Creatives
Edited by: M.J. Dela Rea

20/12/2023

𝐉𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐧'𝐬 𝐅𝐥𝐮 𝐂𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 𝐚𝐭 𝐅𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝟏𝟎 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬

Tokyo - Friday, December 15, 2023.
The Japanese government has reported that the average number of influenza patients at some designated medical facilities near Tokyo is reaching alert levels at the fastest pace in a decade.

As of December 10, approximately 5,000 facilities and 166,690 patients have been reported in the past week, with an average number of patients per facility of 33.72, above the alert level of 30.

According to the National Institute of Infectious Diseases, the estimated number of patients nationwide during the same period was approximately 1,118,000.

The accelerated spread reflects a decline in influenza immunity as the number of cases has declined during the implementation of infectious disease control measures and coronavirus pandemic control measures in recent years.

Health experts say a small number of people have immunity to the influenza virus since COVID-19 cuts were lifted earlier this year, and the virus is spreading about a month faster than normal.

It has said. The number of new coronavirus infections also increased for the third consecutive day this week, authorities said.

Experts have called for increased awareness at Christmas and New Year social gatherings in Tokyo, Japan, amid concerns that coronavirus and influenza viruses could spread further.

According to the ministry, 6,382 educational institutions in the Tokyo area were subject to school and class closures throughout the week starting Sunday.

Influenza epidemics typically occur in the winter to late spring, but this year is unusual, with cases increasing starting in August.

The ministry advised the public not to get infected with influenza in October, after the number of infected people exceeded the recommended standard of 10 people per facility in that month.

Nobuhiko Okabe, director of the Kawasaki City Institute of Health, said, ``Individual infection prevention measures are the same as for the new coronavirus infection, such as vaccination, wearing a mask, and avoiding crowded places."

✍️:J. Zartiga |The Prism Publication News
💻: D. Calo |The Prism Publication Creatives
Edited by: A. Batula