Pax Tecum

The Prince of Peace, Word of God our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ is born! He is the Emmanuel - God with us. And today, he comes to our dwelling. His visit through altar servers Sean, Edward Jr., and Grabrielo reminded me of my father, who was still living when the image of the Child Jesus came to our home last year. The kids (Dimple, Nonoy and Angel) and my sister Daday kissed the Little Mighty Lord after the Pax Tecum prayer was said. Indeed, He is our peace. He comes to console our sadness and to bring the joy of salvation to all humanity. 

May my father Uldarico's soul rest in eternal peace with Jesus, whose birth we celebrate this bright season. May we, who are still journeying here on earth, merit the peace of Christ, the Son of the Living God. Amen.

Celebrating the Canonization of Pedro Calungsod

Image of St. Pedro Calungsod at St. Joseph's Cathedral
Parish of the Ipil Diocese

It wasn't easy to find time to practice with the choir some hymns for Pedro Calungsod, who is canonized today as the second Filipino saint. There were periodic tests, teachers' conference and preparations for the celebration of our school baranga's founding anniversary. But my perseverance won. Just a few days before Sunday, the kids mastered hymns like "St. Pedro Calungsod (Percival Cacanindin), San Pedro Calungsod (Fr. Tim Ofrasio, SJ) and Kuya Pedro (Jamie Rivera)" after our few practices. In one of our rehearsals, one of my students really cried when she saw the video of Calunsod's story. Some of my students were interested to have the mp3 amd mp4 copies of the hymns so they can practice at home. 

This Sunday, also the World Mission Sunday, coincides with the canonization of 7 beatified individuals at St. Peter's Basilica. Here in our cathedral, our school choir joined the Interlude Choir in the singing for the second mass (8 am) and sang during the third mass (9:30 am), which are both in English medium. On both celebrations the hymn for St. Pedro Calungsod by Percival Cacanindin and San Pedro by Fr. Tim were sand during the entrance and offertory processions, respectively. The choir sang Kuya Pedro as post communion in the 3rd mass. 

Saint Pedro Calungsod is such a special saint. I heard about him as "blessed," but when I learned about his life as a young evangelist who bravely died, protecting Fr. Diego (blessed) and defending our Catholic faith, I believe deep in my heart, that he truly is a saint. He is a Visayan, just like me. He too eagerly served the Church - the passion that I have in me. There have been times that I sought for his intercession and though the prayers were that simple, they were answered. Now, faithfully I would always pray: "San Pedro Calungsod, ig-ampo mo kami."

The story behind this new gadget

Last October 15, we were strolling around SM North Wing. In-in was very playful that she kept on running away in the mall and wanting me to follow her. I was with Jonas when we went on different way. Mamang, Dyan and Daylin with kids Dhanna and Dodot were busy finding for the kids' shoes. I was already tired of following after In-in. When I received a text from Daylin, the phone I was using got drained of its battery. I told Jonas that we buy a cheap phone so we can make a call. We window shopped at the Cyberzone area. We also tried to find our location. Jonas even told me, "we are so lost." It took us some time to finally decide on buying a phone. In-in was very tired and sleepy then. We went to an ATM machine and got some cash to buy the phone LG e400. As soon as the SIM card was inserted, I readily received a call from Daylin, who was so worried about us. They went to where we were (at Earophone), where they found In-in sleeping on my arms.

I would have bought a Samsung unit of similar price but LG's internet page is better and it has great features. I will have bought a phone on a scheduled trip next week, but here it is with me now. The phone, not really that expensive is a gadget great to have.

Dining at Chika-an @ SM City Cebu

This very day is Dhanna's birthday. My sister Dyan treated us with delicious lunch in one of the restaurants in SM City Cebu. At Chika-an, we ordered pinakbet, crispy pata, baked scallop, lumpia shanghai, kare-kare and clam soup. The ambiance of the location is good with added view of Radisson Blu Hotel nearby. The treat really got me stuffed. I thought we should have ordered fewer serves. Anyway, it was one great lunch worth telling in this blog.

Dhanna's 3rd Birthday

The first destination of the day was to attend the celebration of the 28th Sunday of the Ordinary Time. We attended the Holy Mass at Consolacion Church here in Cebu. Then Dhanna was given a birthday party at Jollibee. She was thrilled by what was to happen. The party was attended by Dhanna's parents' friends. Her birthday on October 15 was celebrated in advance. Her mother's (Dyan) birthday would also be on the 17th.

The kids enjoyed the party with some parlor games, fun challenges and dance showdown. Here are some of the videos and pictures:

Here in Cebu now

With Chiwawa hybrid Chauncy 

Mamang and I woke up early this morning and took the 4:30 air con bus to Zamboanga. We took the 9:25 am flight 5J 434 of Cebu Pacific. Dyan and Jonathan, with their cute girl Dhanna fetched us. Also in the car were In-in, (who embraced me tightly when she saw me) and her mother Daylin and brother Joshua.

Now I'm here at Dyan's new home in Mandaue. Jonas, who grew in Ipil till he was more than a year old, is also here. There are many things to enjoy here. Aside from everyone's hospitality, there's a quite strong internet connection in the house plus the cute hybrid dog named Chauncy, who is overly friendly and playful. It's nice to be here for the next three days. Tomorrow, Dhanna's 3rd birthday (which is actually on the 15th) will be celebrated. Our family will also be blessing this new home. I look forward to seeing Cebu once again. Our school at the moment, is planning to send us to training sometime on the last week of this month. The said event will be here in Cebu.

with Jonas, Dhanna, In-in and Joshua

I thank God for the safe trip He blessed on us.

Funny Cake

"Happy New Hair Day Darwin."

This morning, two of my co-teachers went to the town. When they came back, they brought some food for our lunch. To my surprise, they bought a cake for me. I so wondered why they gave me such a present. I could not think of any celebration. When I looked at the entire cake, I could not expect what were written therein. It said, "Happy New Hair Day Darwin." I laughed and asked them why. They said that they would just like to buy a chocolate cake and since it's free to have greetings written on it, they thought it would be funny to greet me for my new hair cut. 

First 9:30 am Sunday English Mass Choir

Singing Psalm 23 by Ferdz Bautista 

(Note: All photos courtesy of Boyet Sumatra)

The school choir has already rendered musical services in some Eucharistic celebrations namely this year's baccalaureate mass, founding anniversary of DepEd-Zamboanga Sibugay Division Office thanksgiving mass and mass at the Division Office commemorating the 2012 World Teachers' Day. From these, I have become confident that they can be as good as regular choir at St. Joseph's Cathedral of the Ipil Diocese. Indeed, this morning, the school choir sang solemnly during the first ever 9:30 am English Mass. We sang the mass proper using the new English text, all of Dan Schutte's Mass of Christ the Savior, Revised. We also sang Ferdinand Bautista's Psalm 23. Bishop Julius Tonel celebrated the mass. During his homily, he recognized the choir as a "new" group in the church. He jokingly called me "Fr. Darwin." The Local Government of Ipil, headed by Mayor Eldwin Alibutdan, who attended the mass, sponsored the Eucharistic celebration. It is my prayer that we would be able to sustain this ministry. This activity surely brings the kids closer to God through singing sacred hymns in the house of the Lord. 

Bishop Tonel stands in front of  the Altar during the
offertory procession, as the choir sings "All Good Gifts."

My World Teachers' Day

At past 5 am today, I received a text message from a personnel at the DepEd Division Office, requesting me to accompany in the singing for a Thanksgiving Mass in the celebration of the World's Teachers' Month 2012. I saw it as something meaningful to celebrate "my day." I chose eight choir members from the school and we lead in the singing of the missal hymns, using the new texts. Fr. Dodong was the celebrant of the mass. He was very amazed when he heard our choir original, "My Teacher, My Hero," as our final song. I had the song composed last year, and I improved some of its texts this time. Some personnel also requested for the copy of the song. 

My Teacher, my Hero

Lyrics and music: Darwin Q. Lumosbog

What have I done that I deserve, deserve your love and care?

What is the worth that I possess, that you are always there?

You are the light that guides my path, the star that shines my way.

You are the voice that makes me speak; I thank you every day.

There are times that you and me, walk in different ways.

And there are moments that you are there, to brighten up my days.

You are the arms embracing me, whenever I need love.

You my teacher, a great friend, a gift from up above!

Refrain

My teacher, my hero! My teacher, my hero!

I’ll reach up on the dreams I have, upon your helping hands.

Every day I thank you; appreciate you: My teacher, my hero!

What shall I do to let you know, to let you know I care?

What shall I give to you today, to thank your love so dear?

You are a precious gift to me, my teacher; my true friend

This I promise, this I pledge: I’ll remember you till the end

Refrain (Twice) 

Coda:

Every day I thank you, appreciate you, my teacher, my hero!

The entire school choir also sang "My Teacher, My Hero," during the school's presentation program for teachers. It was first rendered to the teachers last school year at Campus B during the conduct of the same celebration. I opted not to attend the program this time as I would expect that there would be teachers that would not be given (or be given less) tokens. I did not want to see that happen so I just stayed at the faculty room. Some students, however, came to me and gave me their presents. I felt happy having seen their sincerity in doing what they did. I attended the teachers' party in the afternoon. I was the one who lead the prayer before the sumptuous meal prepared by the Student Government Organization. We had lots of fun games after the lunch. 

Photo Courtesy of Trisha Veronica Avengoza 

At Casa Mea Hotel

I, Lovely, Sheryl, Christine and Sweet went to Casa Mea, to have our little party. We took some pictures there and we cooled down with a delicious banana shake treat. I saw two of my former students working at the hotel. How fulfilling it was to see them finding a job for a living. 

Since it is Friday today, I had to go early to the church to accompany in the singing of the hymns for the 5:15 mass. It is first Friday of the month so I had to stay further for the Holy Hour. Bishop Tonel celebrated the mass and lead in the prayer of the Holy Hour. 

From being lost to shopping frenzy... and finally to the Summit

The ZamPen ICT Summit was organized by the DOST - ICT, DTI,
RITECC-9, CCIF and the Local Government of Zamboanga,
which is now popularly called Asia's Latin City

I did not receive the memorandum about a summit on ICT in Zamboanga. But our principal sent me a text message, advising me to attend the event. Earlier, a co-teacher informed me that the summit's schedule was September 25 - 26. Despite being unsure about the schedule, I still went to the city on the 25th and took the 4:30 am bus. I went straight to Astoria Hotel and I saw that the DOST was holding a workshop, which was about Tsunami Preparedness. I immediately informed Mr. Alavaren, our principal and he advised me to just find a lodging house since the summit would be on the 26th. "I was so lost," I told myself. 

After I checked-in in a hotel, I decided to go on shopping. I bought a wallet (Hicock), a travelling bag (Champ), and 2 collared shirts (A&F and Bobson) and some toiletries. I also treated myself with a nice Greenwich pasta with a slice of pizza and some spicy fries. I took my dinner at D' Twins Fried Chicken. 

Yummy lasagna with garlic bread and spicy fries! 

Came the summit day, I checked out from Mag V Hotel and went back to Astoria. There, I saw Mr. Alavaren. I also met Ma'am Cielo, who used to be our head in ICT-iSchools Project. The iSchools project closed last year (December 5). There were many attendees to the summit, mostly from the business sector in the region. The summit was graced by ICT officials from Manila and by the speakers, who were the successful individuals in the BPO (Business Process Outsourcing) industry. The summit tried to present to the region the possibility of operating BPO. The summit was an eye-opener for me. I realized that my younger sister Dyan, has been in the business. She is doing medical transcription in Cebu. As soon as I got back to the school, I shared to my students what I learned from the ICT Exhibit. 

Officiating Officials' Seminar Accreditation in Dapitan

With Sir Nonoy who participated in Soccer, and Lovely (Leonneth)
in Gymnastics. Photo Courtesy of Leonneth M. Moncupa

Having been given a 4, 500 peso-check from the Special Program in Sports Fund, I had no choice but to attend an accreditation workshop, Chess Game in Dapitan on September 21 - 23. I was with Sir Nonoy and Lovely. There, I realized how complex it is to officiate chess games. I met some of the best chess players in the Region. I was so anxious that we'd be all playing. Good thing the trainers decided to group us with some of the veteran chess arbiters. Our leader was very smart and we solved all the given problems and questions during the practicum. On September 23, the written exams were given to all the participants. I was very apprehensive about the test. Good thing, one good chess player helped in answer some hard questions. 

We, three, dropped by Lee Plaza and dined at Chowking, after we brought some groceries for pasalubong.  There's so much to do back to the station. I have to study a lot further. I heard that I would be the tournament manager in Chess in the 2012 Congressional Meet. Good luck to me. 

Been to Buluan at last

Thanks to the science club Buluan Island Coastal Cleanup Drive, I set, for the first time my foot on the enchanting island. Yesterday (Oct 23), I got my back pack stuffed and ready for the big day. At past 9 am, I was with some 20 plus science clubbers as first batch to visit the island. The next batch followed us in less than an hour. After we gathered the nonbiodegradable garbage picked along the sand stretch, we enjoyed bathing and making fun in the cool waters of the island.

Long have I been wanting to go to the island. It's white sand lining is observable from the mainland. Many stories have been told about and relating to it. Presence of rebels, huge waves and difficulty in finding a boat and instances of boat sinking have been told of the island. But there are also nice things about it. Just yesterday, I could only say good things about Buluan Island. It is one of the top marine sanctuaries in the Philippines and is truly amazing and beautiful. How I wish I could go back there and once again, enjoy the breezy, bright and cool island experience.

Got an award on the day of Papang's first afterlife birthday

The documentation that I worked with ALS-Sibugay, which was one of the semifinalists in the National Search for Outstanding ALS Implementation 2012, earned me a plaque on the very first birthday of my father after his death.

The awarding was done this afternoon through a program,, "Harvest of Excellence," that was held at Roderic's Resort in Taway. There were a number of recipients from SPED, ALS, Elementary and Secondary Educators. We were all given fresh red roses, symbolic of their (DepEd Division Office Personnel) congratulatory gesture. The organizers offered us canned juice and hamburger for our snacks. I was with the ALS group during the awarding of the palques. The Division ALS Coordinator was there and he congratulated me.

It was drizzling after the program, but I rushed to Autumn Woods Memorial Park to greet Papang a happy birthday. I placed the rose I received earlier on his tomb. I said a little prayer before I left. It was still drizzling when I was on my way home. Had he been alive today, he would have been so proud of the recognition I got. But I know that he is just there somewhere, happily watching over us, whom he loved dearly.

Payments here and there

I should be enjoying the fruit of my hard labor. Yes, today I have had my check enchased. But payments are left and right - One thousand for the bu-bu, six hundred thirty for Autumn Woods Memorial Park, six hundred fifty for St. Peter Plan; not to mention my two thousand six hundred plus monthly amortization for PAG-IBIG housing loan and five thousand one hundred plus for my two-year salary loan at One Network Bank. These all sum up to almost ten thousand pesos!  

Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus

Christ's great love for us is perfected in his offering of salvation. Let us then joyfully draw water from his well, filled with saving love as this psalm expresses:

During the 6 am mass, Erika sang the English version, which was accompanied by Rodel. My mother, who attended the mass said that the psalm was beautifully sang. We just had this one practiced last night. The Cebuano version was sang by the same psalmist during the 5 pm mass, of which I was the organist.

Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us. Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit; as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.

From PIL back to IPIL

I had high expectations for my own before I went to Bukidnon to attend the Music Module 2 at Paul VI Institute of Liturgy. I thought it would be a breeze to learn in the music theory specially that I have been immersed in choirs. I expected that I could catch up with playing harmony in the organ, having known the basic piano chords. I foresaw a not-so-difficult solfeggio class, having the confidence that it would be a continuance of last module's activities. I have had great hopes that when I get back, my music in the liturgical celebrations in the Church would be a lot better.

It was a gradual realization that module 2 was indeed a lot more challenging than expected. During my stay at PIL, I have come to resolutions that I have to take extra miles in learning the basic skills and theories in music. I even told myself that it would be best if I teach music, for this is the most effective way of learning. I have to enroll in piano class to make me ready with playing organ with harmony. I should allot time for solfeggio practice. Having the high interest to learn, I opted to stay and stand through the difficulties of catching up. With the helpful classmates and mentors, I somehow finished the course, with many skills and learning that have yet to become mine. 

This morning at 11, I stepped my foot on Ipil, my beloved town. After a short rest, I accompanied the choir during the 5 pm anticipated mass of the Solemnity of Christ's Body and Blood. After 10 days, at last I played the organ in pipe music. The assembly joined the choir actively. I thought that the accompaniment was effective since the community participated in the sung parts of the celebration. After the mass, I practiced with the choir my composed antiphons for the lauds tomorrow. 

It is not an excuse that with this not-standardized playing the people can sing or participate anyway, that I would not venture on the basic skills in music. I shall pursue learning, for in so doing, God is glorified. The Almighty deserves only the best music, which is worthy in praising and glorifying him. It is my fervent prayer that God may grant me strength to make me a better servant in the music ministry.

The Lord has given me light

My skepticism has diminished. A bright light has been bestowed upon me by the Lord. I prayed, and prayed intently that today, he would be my strength that I would be able to face yet another day of challenges in my subjects here at PIL. Indeed, I have drawn strength from the people who care. My classmates, the Dominican seminarians have become Christ's unseen face and unnoticed force. With their encouragement and assistance, I somehow have coped with the day's challenges. The journey with them is one gain that I have reaped from this Music Module. My teachers have been kindest and mildest today. Their methodology and approach enabled me to get some pieces of learning I could polish and use soon. Our group (II) practice for the presentation was a lot of fun. The joys we shared with our group members during our rehearsal were relaxing and heart-warming. The day's prayers in the morning and in the evening at the chapel, along with my classmates and mentors' sharing brought joy in the heart. As Fr. Anscar said, "Bring the PIL Community" to where we would be after the Music Module, I came to realize that there is more to than just learning the theories and skills in music. It is the life that I have lived in my stay in this institute that determines the weight of benefit that I could get from this training. The gain to treasure is my doing of things everyday that glorifies God. 

Dominican Seminarians Bro. Roy and Bro. Aaron

Not worth the coming

Paul VI Institute of Liturgy (PIL)
Brgy. San Jose
Malaybalay City, Bukidnon

When I realized that I have not enough preparations for this training I am into now, I started to question about my worth of being here. Would I be gaining the benefits expected of this Music Module II, where I am enrolled?

As of the moment, I am practically ignorant with performing the 2 – part playing of organ. I just have the thought in me now that had it been made clear to us participants before enrolling, that basic piano skills are necessary to the lesson on playing the organ, I would have second thoughts about joining. I am so catching up with solfeggio activities. Most probably, 365 days of last year were chiefly spent for my classes in the school where I teach science. I should have appropriated some time for some practice in the solfeggio. The lessons on Music Theory have been difficult to catch up with. Along with all these challenges is the inevitable feeling of insecurity, having seen everyone but me, is sailing through the discussions and activities well. What is my worth being here? I should have been in a lower level class. But despite this burden, there have been times of learning. The mentors have been friendly. It can be gleaned from their actions their desire for me to learn. But then again, everything is just so difficult. There are even moments when I question about my being in the music ministry. I have seen that what I have been doing is far from standard. It is not enough that you have the desire to serve; I should also have the proper skills in the performance of such service.

When I looked at my left hand this morning, I gazed at its insufficiency in playing the organ. Right above it, was the crucifix with the Christ’s statue hanging on it. I looked at the Lord’s open hands, though wounded with nails. I realized that the same should be done. These hands have to work further. These hands have to suffer and be burdened with trainings. Only then shall these hands become worthy of serving Jesus in this ministry. Those who are adept surely did not wake up one day, and became skilled. I look forward to training myself. This Module has taught me to give service that is to its best. I might not be coming back here next year or even for years. But it wouldn’t mean that I surrender with my enhancement in music. I shall work, and work even harder. I can make it. God looks tenderly at his poor people. I know he would help me with this endeavor. 

Our Gorgeous AI.11 Bet is Now in the Top 3

Almost every time American Idol Season 11 airs on TV, our family is glued to the show in anticipation to the performance of the Filipino contestant Jessica Sanchez. Her singing talent is amazing. Even the American Idol coach Jimmy believed that she has the best voice among all the candidates. It was shocking when she was almost eliminated, but we expected that the judges would save her with their only one save for the entire season. Indeed, while singing to stay in the contest, the judges even went up the stage to stop her and saved her from leaving the competition. Now, she is at the top 3. We saw the news on TV. The elimination night show will be aired tonight at 6, but several local news channels report in advance the results. In 5 years, there has been no female winner. This time, she is the only one left. The best female singer on AI.11 is undeniably Jessica Sanchez - the last female contestant standing strongly. I hope the Filipino and Mexican communities in the US would vote for her. She deserves to be the winner.

Joshua Ledet and Phillip Phillips joined her in the top 3. Hollie Cavanagh was eliminated.

Startlingly Simple, Serene Island

One of the many views of Balas-Balas Island

Probably because the place is barely lined with sand, that the folks of Dapitan call it Balas-Balas, suggesting the meagerness of the beach-soil at the sides of the limestone-structured island. A pump boat ride got us there in about fifteen minutes. We enjoyed looking at the edge of the west coast of Dapitan, landscaped with nature-carved  sedimentary rocks and lively green vegetation while on the way to the island. Simple as it is, the island offers a variety of picturesque sights at different angles. Serenity and simplicity make this humble island a venue for a get-together with friends, where you can truly hear what every one would say as there are no loud sounds from appliances. I heard that a number of people would come to the place during the Feast of St. John the Baptist. Last April 28, there were two parties aside from us that went there. 

Nearing the captivating island 

I and Pilar pose in match-in-color summer wear

Jellyfish presence is something not familiar ( to the people in Dapitan, accordingly.) But there were at least three when we were there. One of our friends was stung (by about a couple of inches) by a such a venomous young cnidarian. I was grateful I wasn't though I was swimming a lot there. I think, one has to be really careful and observant enough about the presence of these relatives of Medusa. I did snorkeling and found some sea urchins hiding in the rocks. I spotted some starfish and young corals at the bottom. The water was virtually still while I was swimming. Though not highly rich in biodiversity, the presence of marine life at the nearby seafloor and the coolness and cleanliness of the water are enough to enjoy viewing sea creatures through goggles. Lovely's brother Pagong and Harvey her husband with their son Kenzie, also enjoyed snorkeling, but were not stung by any jellyfish.

I chat with Sweet in the cavern. Pilar took this picture. 

After-lunch moment with Pagong, Me, Pilar and Lovely

Given another time to revisit the island, why not? The beach, though not the usual heavily sanded, offers venues where one can have fun under the summer sun. The rock formations are great backdrops for photo shoots. There are at least two shallow caves, which are evidently formed by chemical weathering on the limestone. Visitors can sit down the caverns while looking at the scenic views from the island. The "edge" extends generously before you get to the deeper area, so swimming is convenient. The beach is also naturally setup having only waves, insects and birds that serenade the stunning island. It's truly a nature trip going to and being in Balas-Balas island. 

Just another view seen from the island

Balas-Balas, simple, but naturally scenic island. 

My second commencement speech

The first graduation message I had was addressed to Marcelo Spinola School 2010 Graduates. This one below was conveyed, well, to my very students and now, co-alumni of WMSU. I somehow realized later, that it had to be a WMSU graduate, who should talk about WMSUans in this modern period. 

WMSU GRADUATES 2012: MOVING TOWARDS THE CHALLENGES OF THE NEW CENTURY

I am truly honored having been chosen as your speaker for this memorable commencement exercises. Being an alumnus of Western Mindanao State University, I could say that your graduation from college brings oneness in the sense of achievement with all of us that finished our studies from this university.

Dear graduates, the ones close to you couldn’t be any prouder and more content having seen you wearing your graduation suits, in crimson, the color associated in some biblical passages with richness of knowledge of good. Indeed, you have been enriched by our Alma Mater with the bounty of learning amidst all the real challenges you faced until you come to this very day, when you would probably say, “at last, I made it!” “What a journey it has been.” “Thank you dear God that you have blessed me with the sweetest fruit of success from all the efforts that I took.” You should have realized this time that those actions you took in facing difficulties that seemed to be unsolvable were just possible after all. This is the time to cherish all the triumphs you have gained.  

You finished your studies when there are innovations in education such as UBD, K+12. This is also the time when our national government seriously addresses issues on good governance. Technological advancements are at their peak. Undeniably, along with these developments, your life as students was not that easy. Other than the demands of your mentors and subjects, financial constraints would have been a barrier to finish your course. Personal issues would have weakened your spirits. But look at you now, steadfast and successful. “Congratulations!” You are most deserving of this greeting. You are graduates of the new century.

The new century has brought you graduates of education and computer courses together for a great endeavor that waits ahead. What a powerhouse tandem you make! Just recently, the partnership of the University of the Philippines Open University with the Information and Communications Technology Office of the DOST, through the iSchools project evaluated and validated the so-called Computer-Based Learning Objects. These learning objects are teaching complements which can be used during the conduct of the lesson, remediation, reinforcement, and enrichment with and even without the teacher’s facility. The Alternative Learning System, which is catering learners of all ages enjoys the utilization of digitized learning modules. I have learned that some computer science students ventured on computer-based researches at some of the schools in our province. On the other hand, a number of BSEd students utilized IT in their practice teaching. The BEED students transacted with their research adviser online. With our ESU’s online resource venue, you are so in sync with how studies and researches are done in this modern era.

However, amidst these overwhelming advancements, there is still so much to do. This world is setup dynamically. Innovations are here, there and everywhere and they happen anytime. There are schools that have not been installed with IT. There are still issues in education that have to be addressed, one of the most pressing concerns – the achievement rates of the learners. There are teachers, students and citizens who have yet to get acquainted with the ever-evolving computer programs. In the society, there are still necessities that call out loud for useful inventions. A number of government services have yet to be made more time-efficient and convenient.  The challenges of the new century are indeed big. These challenges highlight the job that you graduates, shall be doing comes your turn as employees of the society. 

But we have a bright future ahead of us. What makes you advantageous among all other graduates of the country is that you are WMSU graduates. This university has geared you with appropriate, relevant courses that shall enable you to confront the present time’s demands. We often hear good remarks about WMSU graduates. The students taking up masters and doctors at the university gain great reputation from the community. Its motto: “La Universidad, para la comunidad”, “the University for the Community,” is an assurance that this university turns out graduates who are highly potential agents of positive transformations in the society. You, who completed your well-earned courses from this institution, are undeniably directed towards facing and answering the challenges of the new century.

But are these challenges of the technologically advanced century confined in computer-based or IT-related concerns? Certainly, you have enough knowledge and skills to keep yourselves attuned to what is trending in the technology now. As graduates of computer science, you can be employed by agencies that require IT-skilled applicants. You are surely adept at dealing software programs and operating systems, and even efficient with working on the hardware components of a computer. And as education graduates, your knowledge on the foundation in education and skills in the utilization of educational technology shall make you good teachers in the field.

Aside from or even more than your knowledge and skills, is your attitude. The way you will move yourselves in this new millennium shall be greatly influenced by your values. Among the louder challenges that ring in this modern world, is the call towards self-transformation. Issues on corruption, poverty, social injustices, crimes, illiteracy and environmental problems continue to exist in this contemporary time. These are real challenges, where you graduates are moving into. Not only has this university called you to address them, but our very own country, the Philippines. You are the shining hope, being a breed of new blood in transforming this country to a more developed state, where there is social justice and prosperity. You shall be the frontline workers in taking care of our environment and in preserving the rich biodiversity of our province. You, computer science graduates shall be inventors of schemes that would allow our government to dispense fast and efficient services to the public. You, teacher-education graduates, shall mold the minds of the young to be competent and self-reliant. All of you, graduates, shall be agents of good governance and nation-building.

Dear graduates, the world out there is indeed challenging. After this graduation, you will get yourselves ready for the exams such as CS eligibility and LET. This is yet another tough mountain to climb. Some of you may endeavor on finding a job. The journey just commences today, and WMSU celebrates this beginning, as it sends you forth not to the world of unemployment, but to the venues of tremendous possibilities. Live by the good values as you make use of your earned knowledge and skills as you take your next steps. Trust in God. Our faith strengthens our spirits and motivates us to do what is right and just. Believe in yourself. Your relentlessly burning confidence shall keep you going and moving towards the fulfillment of your dreams. Once again, congratulations and Godspeed!

-          Darwin Q. Lumosbog

-          April 22, 2012

I was so not lost

Roaming around Manila on my own has never occurred in my thoughts until yesterday. I arrived at NAIA Terminal 2 when all the participants (in the training I am attending now here in Tagaytay) were already in the seminar venue. The organizer called up on me and gave me instruction on how to get to Tagaytay. I took a ride on a shuttle bus, which passes south of the terminal 2. I requested the driver assistant to drop me at the MRT. I paid 12 pesos for the ride. Once there, he signaled me to go down. I did not realize that the buses for Tagaytay were still meters ahead. So I took a brisk walk, dragging my baggage. I asked the dispatcher there where would I take a ride. He was kind enough to point on a bus. And so, I was headed to my destination. The traffic in Manila I used to see on TV happened to me. It took the bus more than three hours to get to Tagaytay. Earlier, I asked the bus conductor to drop me at the "Rotunda", which he did. I paid 60 for the trip. I saw a tricycle and told its driver to bring me to DAPCC. The driver talked a lot about the place. Seeing that I was trying to take a shot of the famous Taal Volcano, he stopped the motorcycle at a vantage point. The picture was really good and I posted it on Facebook. At least 15 people liked it. I finally reached the venue and took my lunch after I checked in.I thought I would find it hard to get to an unfamiliar place. It takes guts to do it. Now, I could be more confident when it comes to situations like this one.

Just for the pics

Friday it was when I was rushing to the pageant venue as I would be the chairman of the Board of Judges for the 2012 Miss WMSU-Ipil. It was already like more than half an hour after the scheduled time before I arrived. As the show commenced, I realized I left my camera. I texted everyone at home but for some reasons, they couldn’t attend to my request. Right after the talent contest, I drove as fast as I could homeward to get the cam. I estimated that I could still be back since there would be two presentations before the next exposure of the candidates. I caught up the last intermission number before the next competition – the swim wear. And so the cam successfully took pictures, which are definitely memorable and as they say, “fruits of a hard labor.”

Ivy Marie Aballe, BSEd II Major in Biological Science was crowned Miss WMSU. She bagged three minor awards namely, best in Production Number, Cocktail Dress and Swim Suit. She was also the Most Photogenic. She will be enjoying full scholarship grant in the next school year. She will be representing WMSU in the 2012 Miss Ipil Pageant.

Joy Marie Sullia, BSEd III, also a Biological Science major, was the first runner up. She was the best in School Uniform and in Gown. The Computer Science candidate, Shiela Mae Deleonio, who was the Best in Talent, showing off her singing prowess was the second runner up.