The Verdant Lens

20/06/2026

𝑼𝑪 𝑱𝒂𝒈𝒖𝒂𝒓 𝑮𝒊𝒓𝒍𝒔 𝑩𝒂𝒔𝒌𝒆𝒕𝒃𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝑨𝒕𝒉𝒍𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒔 𝑹𝒆𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑹𝒆𝒈𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒂𝒕 𝑷𝒂𝒍𝒂𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝑷𝒂𝒎𝒃𝒂𝒏𝒔𝒂 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔

University of the Cordilleras (UC) Jaguars Maxine Lauren Hernandez and Frances Nicole Parilla proudly represented their region in the Basketball Girls 5x5 event of the Palarong Pambansa 2026, held in Agusan del Sur from May 18 to June 4, 2026.

Competing against some of the country’s strongest teams, the squad finished the tournament with one win against CALABARZON and three losses. Despite the challenges, the team remained determined throughout the competition.

According to Coach Ms. Ruzzel Rogel, one of the biggest challenges was helping the players stay focused and confident in a highly competitive tournament. She praised the team’s perseverance, unity, and commitment despite coming from different schools and backgrounds. Coach Ruzzel also expressed pride in the athletes for their dedication and best efforts in every game, highlighting the experience as an opportunity for growth both on and off the court.

For Hernandez and Parilla, competing in the Palarong Pambansa was both exciting and challenging. They shared that the team felt pressure before the tournament due to limited preparation time and the strength of their opponents. During the games, they faced difficulties such as intense competition, fatigue, and adjusting to a new team setup. Despite these challenges, the experience taught them valuable lessons in discipline, teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance. They also expressed pride in their team’s effort and achievement of securing a win for their region while encouraging future athletes to work hard, trust the process, and enjoy every opportunity to learn and grow.

The team’s participation in the Palarong Pambansa 2026 served as a valuable learning experience, highlighting the dedication, perseverance, and unity of the players and coaching staff while proudly representing their region on the national stage.

✍🏻 Vyckrntz Solimen
📸 Maria Ruzzel Rogel

19/06/2026

𝗧𝗶𝗸𝗹𝗮𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝗦𝗶𝗸𝗹𝗮𝗯: 𝗨𝗻𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝗿𝗮𝘀 & 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗸𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗕𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗛𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲

By Princess Paz Feken

The Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) Senior High School students of the University of the Cordilleras showcased their creativity, talent, and understanding of societal trends during Tiklas at Siklab: Unraveling Eras & Sparks of Talents held on June 16, 2026, at the UC Auditorium.

The event served as the culminating performance task for the students under the Trends, Networks, and Critical Thinking in the 21st Century Culture (TRENDS) subject. Through theatrical presentations and performances, the different sections portrayed various eras, highlighting the cultural, social, and technological developments that shaped each period.

Students brought their chosen decades to life through acting, music, dance, costumes, and stage design, transforming the auditorium into a journey through time. The presentations reflected months of preparation and collaboration among the participants.

Special awards were presented to recognize outstanding performances. HUMSS 12-C (2010s) received the People’s Choice Award, while HUMSS 12-D was named Most Disciplined. HUMSS 12-B (1950s) earned the Best Props Award, and HUMSS 12-F was recognized for Best Musical.

Individual awards were also given to students who demonstrated exceptional performance on stage. Tristan Brille T. Natuplag of HUMSS 12-E received the Best Actor Award, while Natasha Morgan of HUMSS 12-D was awarded Best Actress.

For the overall competition, HUMSS 12-D (1970s) placed as 2nd Runner-Up, while the section representing the 1950s secured the 1st Runner-Up title. Emerging as the Champion was HUMSS 12-C for its presentation of the 2010s, impressing both judges and audience members alike.

According to TRENDS teacher Kimberson Alacyang, the event marked “the last moment that the HUMSS students will be together,” emphasizing the significance of the program as one of the final collective experiences of the graduating students.

Beyond the awards and performances, Tiklas at Siklab celebrated the students’ talents, teamwork, and learning, leaving participants and spectators with meaningful memories as the HUMSS batch nears the end of its senior high school journey.

📸: Princess Paz Feken, Jake Pontanosa, Aerle Portacio

19/06/2026

𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗽𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗕𝗶𝘇 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝘁𝗵 𝗕𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗻𝘇𝗮 𝟐𝐎𝟐𝟔

The University of the Cordilleras (UC) recognized the outstanding achievements of Grade 12 student entrepreneurs during the awarding ceremony of Biz Booth Bonanza 2026 held on June 17 at the UC Theater.

Following the product showcasing, business pitching, and customer engagement, participating teams from the HUMSS, ABM, TVL-ICT-C&CT, and TVL-ICT-DA strands were honored for their excellence in innovation, marketing, creativity, and entrepreneurship.

Among the special award recipients were EmpaG! and Gourdness Gracious for Think Outside the Box, Bao Wow for Perfect Blend, and EmpaG! for Pitch Master. Several teams were also recognized for their outstanding leadership, visual merchandising, and innovative business concepts.

For the overall competition, Crack My Bowl secured 4th Runner-Up, followed by Hwachaeology as 3rd Runner-Up and Dough Kre-Mi as 2nd Runner-Up. Gourdness Gracious earned the title of 1st Runner-Up, while EmpaG! emerged as the Champion of Biz Booth Bonanza 2026.

The activity served as a culminating application of the students' entrepreneurial knowledge and skills, highlighting their ability to develop business ideas into marketable ventures while fostering innovation, collaboration, and leadership.

Congratulations to all participants and awardees for making Biz Booth Bonanza 2026 a successful celebration of young entrepreneurship.

🖋: Hannah Coleen Hidalgo
📸: Zoe Bella Rimalos, Ez Phee Aye Formantes, Hannah Coleen Hidalgo

18/06/2026

🏆✨ Long live the MMUC! ✨🏆

Congratulations to the Winners of Mr. & Ms. UC 2026! 👑

Ms. UC 2026: Roxanne Gupta (CAS)
Mr. UC 2026: Raymund Pablo (CHTM)
Mr. Green Jaguar 2026: Jan Cris Dacasin (CAS)
Ms. Green Jaguar 2026: Deseree Gooch (CONAHS)
Mr. Green Warrior 2026: Morales Homiggop (CTE)
Ms. Green Warrior 2026: Samantha Lexi Candari (CHTM)
Mr. 1st Runner Up: Isaac Ethan Roy Azarcon (COE)
Ms. 1st Runner Up: Marie Dominique Manuguid (JHS)
Mr. 2nd Runner Up: Niel Rafael (CBA)
Ms. 2nd Runner Up: Aesha Leigh Kitong (CAFA)

17/06/2026

𝗛𝗔𝗣𝗣𝗘𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗡𝗢𝗪 | 𝗕𝗜𝗭 𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗧𝗛 𝗕𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗡𝗭𝗔 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲

The University of the Cordilleras Theater has transformed into a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship as Grade 12 students from the HUMSS, ABM, TVL-ICT-C&CT, and TVL-ICT-DA strands participate in Biz Booth Bonanza 2026 today, June 17.

As part of the requirements for their Entrepreneurship subject, students are showcasing and marketing their products and services through interactive business booths, providing them with firsthand experience in business planning, product promotion, customer engagement, and financial management.

The activity serves as a practical application of entrepreneurial concepts learned in the classroom, allowing students to develop essential business skills while fostering creativity, collaboration, and innovation.

Running from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the event highlights the students' ability to transform business ideas into viable ventures, reflecting the spirit of enterprise and leadership among young entrepreneurs.

16/06/2026

𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐚𝐤𝐛𝐨 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔 𝐀𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐕𝐨𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐒𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐈𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐞𝐬

BAGUIO CITY — Students of the University of the Cordilleras–Integrated School Senior High School (UC-IS-SHS) showcased their perspectives on pressing social issues through artistic performances and persuasive expression during Silakbo 2026, the culminating activity for Filipino sa Piling Larangan (Akademik), held at the UC Auditorium on June 4.

Carrying the theme “Sining ng Paninindigan: Alingawngaw ng Tinig sa Isyung Panlipunan,” the event provided learners with a platform to communicate their standpoints on contemporary social concerns using skills developed in their Filipino subjects.

According to Language–Filipino Head Marites Macyon, Silakbo aims to demonstrate students’ ability to express their positions through logical and creative forms of communication.

“Ang Silakbo ay culminating activity ng asignaturang Fil-Akad na mayroong layuning ipakita ang kakayahan ng mga mag-aaral na magpahayag ng kanilang paninindigan sa lohikal at masining na pamamaraan gamit ang kanilang natutuhan sa paggamit ng wika mula sa mga asignaturang Filipino,” Macyon said.

The Grade 12 competition was divided into two batches. The first batch tackled the issue of Middle Class Squeeze, while the second focused on Conservation vs. Mining.

In the Middle Class Squeeze category, STEM 12 H received the award for Pinakamalikhain sa Kasuotan at Kagamitang Pantanghal, STEM 12 N earned Pinakaorganisadong Galaw and Pinakamahusay sa Pagbigkas, and STEM 12 J won Pinakamakabuluhang Ekspresyon. STEM 12 IS B was recognized for Pinakamahusay na Pyesa. STEM 12 J and STEM 12 IS B shared the championship title, while STEM 12 H placed second overall.

For the Conservation vs. Mining category, STEM 12 G won Pinakamalikhain sa Kasuotan at Kagamitang Pantanghal, while STEM 12 L received Pinakaorganisadong Galaw. STEM 12 IS A secured Pinakamakabuluhang Ekspresyon, Pinakamahusay sa Pagbigkas, and Pinakamahusay na Pyesa. The section also emerged as champion, followed by STEM 12 G in second place and STEM 12 L in third place.

Meanwhile, Grade 11 participants explored the issue of the normalisasyon ng online gambling, presenting performances that examined the increasing prevalence and societal effects of online gambling among Filipinos.

HUMSS 11 C received Pinakamalikhain sa Kasuotan at Kagamitang Pantanghal, while ABM 11 B earned Pinakaorganisadong Galaw. HUMSS 11 B won Pinakamakabuluhang Ekspresyon, while HUMSS 11 B and HUMSS 11 C shared the award for Pinakamahusay sa Pagbigkas. HUMSS 11 A was recognized for Pinakamahusay na Pyesa.

HUMSS 11 B emerged as the overall champion in the Grade 11 category, followed by HUMSS 11 C in second place and ABM 11 B in third place.

Macyon emphasized that Silakbo goes beyond fulfilling academic requirements and serves as an avenue for students to develop social awareness and civic engagement through language.

“Ang wikang Filipino nawa ay gamiting kasangkapan ng bawat isa na magsalita, magmulat ng kamalayan, magbahagi ng tamang impormasyon, at ipaglaban ang kaisipan sa makabuluhang paraan,” she said.

Through performances centered on contemporary social issues, Silakbo 2026 highlighted the role of language, creativity, and advocacy in fostering informed and socially responsible citizens.

🖋️ | Paz Feken
📸 | Renz Dumancas, Ezekiel Bernal

16/06/2026

𝐓𝐕𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐒 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐨𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐭 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐫𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐃𝐎𝐋𝐄-𝐂𝐀𝐑 𝐏𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭

BAGUIO CITY — Demonstrating creativity and social awareness through art, Ms. Erica Jill Garcia of The Verdant Lens secured Third Place in the Open Category of the World Day Against Child Labor Painting Contest organized by the Department of Labor and Employment–Cordillera Administrative Region (DOLE-CAR) on June 11, 2026.

The competition was held at the DOLE-CAR Regional Office in Cabinet Hill, Baguio City, as part of the observance of the World Day Against Child Labor. Participants from the elementary, high school, and senior high school levels gathered to express their perspectives on child labor through visual art.

Garcia's artwork stood out among the entries, earning her a place among the competition's top winners. Her achievement highlights not only her artistic talent but also her ability to communicate important social issues through creative expression.

The annual observance aims to raise awareness about the rights and welfare of children and the need to eliminate child labor in all its forms. Through the painting contest, young artists were encouraged to advocate for children's rights and contribute to public awareness campaigns through their artwork.

Garcia's accomplishment brings pride to the University of the Cordilleras and The Verdant Lens, reflecting the institution's commitment to nurturing students' artistic talents and social responsibility. Her success serves as an inspiration to fellow students to use their skills and creativity in promoting meaningful causes and positive social change.

16/06/2026

𝗛𝗔𝗣𝗣𝗘𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗡𝗢𝗪 | 𝗧𝗜𝗞𝗟𝗔𝗦 𝗔𝗧 𝗦𝗜𝗞𝗟𝗔𝗕 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟲

The HUMSS Department officially opens TIKLAS AT SIKLAB: Unravelling Eras & Sparks of Talents today, June 16, at the UC Auditorium, gathering students, teachers, and guests for a two-day showcase of creativity, talent, and cultural appreciation.

As part of the event's first day, Grade 12 HUMSS students take center stage in “Unravelling Eras,” presenting theatrical performances that bring significant historical periods to life through storytelling, acting, and artistic expression. The presentations aim to deepen understanding of history while highlighting the students' creativity and collaborative efforts.

The event serves as a platform for Humanistas to demonstrate their skills, knowledge, and passion in the arts and humanities, reflecting the values of the HUMSS strand.

Stay tuned for updates and highlights as the celebration continues and as preparations unfold for tomorrow's HUMSS Got Talent: Sparks of Talents, where students will showcase their talents through various performances.

📍 UC Auditorium
📅 June 16–17, 2026
⏰ 7:00 AM onwards

12/06/2026

𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐏𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐄 𝐃𝐀𝐘 🇵🇭

On this day every year, we commemorate the strength, courage, and sacrifice of our Filipino ancestors who fought for our nation's freedom. Their unwavering spirit laid the foundation for the independence we cherish today.

As we celebrate 128 years since the declaration of Philippine independence, let us remember that freedom is more than an achievement in history—it is also a responsibility we must carry forward. Through unity, wisdom, and love for our country, we honor the legacy of those who came before us and encourage future generations to do the same.

Maligayang Araw ng Kalayaan, Filipinos! 🇵🇭✨



✍️: Kate Nucasa
🎨: Eiram Macadangdang

10/06/2026

𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐄𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐍𝐎𝐖 || 𝐔𝐂 𝐒𝐒𝐆 𝐒𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐔𝐩 𝐀𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐜 𝐏𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐲

The UC SHS Supreme Student Government is currently giving free coffee & snacks to Senior High students and personnel at their academic pantry, positioned on the 9th floor of the U building beside the fire exit.

Purposely offering hot coffee and sweet biscuits, the SSG-administered project aims to aid the SHS body in being physically energized and mentally awake for the 3rd trimester finals examinations.

🖋️ | Thirdie Dupo
📸 | Eiram Macadangdang