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Magnum Opus, Phase III Doña Francisca Subdivision Talisay Balanga City, Bataan, Balanga (2026)

31/12/2025

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗲𝗻 𝗧𝗼𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗮 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗛𝗼𝗿𝗶𝘇𝗼𝗻

As the calendar turns and the ink of the past year dries, we stand at the threshold of a fresh chapter. For Magnum Opus, the official English student publication of City of Balanga National High School - JHS, the new year is more than just a change in date—it is a renewal of our commitment to the stories that define us.

In the coming year, we pledge to remain steadfast in our pursuit of "Excellence in Truth and Character." We recognize that every voice in our hallways carries a unique story and every experience holds a profound lesson. It is our greatest honor to be the stewards of your narratives, capturing the triumphs, the challenges, and the quiet moments of growth that make our community extraordinary.

May this year bring you the clarity to see the truth in all things and the passion to pursue your own "Great Work." Together, let us write a year filled with purpose, integrity, and boundless inspiration.

From the entire Editorial Staff of Magnum Opus, may your new year be a masterpiece in the making.

Happy New Year to Everyone! 💛🤎🪶

Digital art by: Ma. Ysabelle A. Popioco

30/12/2025

𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗥𝗶𝘇𝗮𝗹'𝘀 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁

Today, our hearts burn with an unyielding fire as we honor the ultimate sacrifice of Dr. Jose Rizal. Under the theme “RIZAL: Sa Pagbangon ng mga Mamamayan, Aral at Diwa Mo ang Tunay na Gabay,” we celebrate a man whose burning love for the Philippines could not be extinguished by even a firing squad. His life was a testament to the fact that one soul, fueled by passion and truth, can ignite a fire of freedom that lasts for generations.

In our journey to rise above the trials of today, Rizal’s "Aral at Diwa" serve as the heartbeat of our recovery. He taught us that true strength is found in our character and our willingness to help our fellow citizens. When we face hard times, his spirit reminds us to never give up and to keep reaching for excellence. His wisdom is the light that guides us through the dark, showing us how to be brave even when the path is difficult.

As we carry this fire within us to build a stronger country, Magnum Opus is one with the nation in commemorating his 129th year of martyrdom. Honoring Rizal means living out his passion for the Filipino people in everything we do. As we rise up, let his courage be our courage and his dream be our dream. Together, guided by his immortal spirit, we will move forward toward a future that is bright, free, and full of hope.

Lay-out by: Hue An Jimenez Palaypay

25/12/2025

𝐂𝐎𝐋𝐔𝐌𝐍| 𝐂𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐞 𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐤 by Juri Khrisna A. Cunanan

🅽🅾 🅲🅷🅴🅰🅿🅴🆁 🅱🆄🅴🅽🅰

As I scrolled through my social media feeds and the news, the images were clear: nairaos na ang Pasko. Filipino families, in their "signature" resilience, found ways to set the table despite the odds of the Philippine economy.

Yet, seeing these modest tables only reminded me of the sting of the DTI statement regarding the ₱500 Noche Buena budget. That unrealistic claim—coming from someone who seem hasn't set foot in a local market—was not just a suggestion. It was a total disconnect from the reality we just lived through.

For my family, and every Filipino family, Noche Buena is our version of a feast. As a child, I always anticipated it—not just for the gifts, but for the joy of seeing favorite dishes waving from the table. It is a reward for the challenges we’ve overcome and a break from the monotonous meals we endure throughout the year.

This Christmas season, with that statement, the government didn't even tried to celebrate with us. Instead of providing relief, they dictated how we should celebrate: 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲. 𝗙𝗿𝘂𝗴𝗮𝗹. 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝗲.

The DTI’s estimate relied solely on the cheapest possible canned goods, neglecting crucial details like transportation, cooking gas, or even a simple tablecloth—details that are non-negotiable for Filipinos. This isn't just a case of bad arithmetic; it is a deep, systemic disconnect.

The question was no longer about the spirit of the season; it was about the audacity of officials imposing a "doable" figure while inflation is at an all-time high and government contractors are being questioned for their lavish lifestyles.

As we look back at the Christmas Eve that just passed, we saw the true face of the Filipino spirit. Families didn't find a ₱500 miracle. Instead, they stretched their means and made the celebration happen with whatever was available. They made do with the little they had, turning a meager budget into a moment of shared dignity. It was a victory of the heart, but it was a victory won in spite of the government, not because of it.

Indeed, there are things greater than a feast. We Filipinos have always found value in faith, family, and the strength of being together—things we prioritize far above the food on the table. We found that spirit again this year. But it is not for the people who are supposed to be providing for us—the people who extract from our taxes—to use our resilience as a justification for their neglect. When they tell us to be "frugal" while they live in excess, it isn't "budgeting"—it is a mask for mistrust and corruption.

Our ability to survive on a pittance should never be used to excuse their failure to serve.

Noche Buena is a cultural and emotional anchor. After a year of hardships, we deserve a moment of abundance that we worked hard for. We are not "lesser" citizens who should be happy with canned goods and compromises. Next time the DTI releases a price guide, they should aim for a dignified list that reflects the respect they owe the Filipino people.

We deserve better. We deserve a celebration that honors our hard work, not a "Cheaper Buena" that mocks it.

Editorial cartoon by: Steaphiene Kirvy S. Derla

24/12/2025

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐨𝐧: 𝐀 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐧𝐮𝐦 𝐎𝐩𝐮𝐬 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐬 𝐌𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐠𝐞

In the spirit of "Excellence in Truth and Character," we are reminded that the most profound truths are found in the simple act of sharing. As illustrated in our featured comic, "The Season of Giving," the true magic of Christmas isn't found just in the box under the tree, but in the gratitude and love that bind a family together.

This holiday season, Magnum Opus—the official English student publication of City of Balanga National High School - JHS—wishes everyone a celebration filled with meaningful moments. May we all find joy in the smiles of others and remember that a thankful heart is the greatest gift of all.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

DIGITAL ART BY: Kristian Gabriel D. Galura

20/12/2025

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐮𝐠 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 ☕️
by Princess Einjhel D. Guila

It is just a few days before Christmas 🎄🎅 and the anticipation is at an all-time high! We spend weeks perfecting our wishlists, daydreaming about unwrapping the latest trends—those limited-edition sneakers, sleek smartphones, designer hoodies, or the noise-canceling headphones we’ve been eyeing all year. We imagine ourselves with new tablets, branded sports gear, and smartwatches that track our every move. But sometimes, reality arrives in the form of a simple ceramic mug.

In this comic, the ceramic mug symbolizes the gap between our material desires and the simple reality of giving. While it may not have the flair of a fresh outfit or the high-tech power of a new gadget, it represents a humble truth: the spirit of the season isn't measured by labels, price tags, or megapixels.

It’s a funny reminder that while we chase the "perfect" gift, it’s the thought—and the awkward joy of sharing—that should matter most. Even if that "thought" is just another addition to the kitchen cabinet, the connection we make with others is the real gift! 🎁✨

19/12/2025

🅱 🅴 🆈 🅾 🅽 🅳 🆃 🅷 🅴 🅵 🅻 🅰 🆂 🅷: 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗢𝗕𝗡𝗛𝗦 𝗝𝗛𝗦 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗶𝘁

Before the desks were pushed aside for the laughter and shared meals of the year-end classroom parties, DepEd - City Of Balanga National High School - Junior High School (COBNHS - JHS)community gathered today, December 19, 2025, to celebrated the most anticipated holiday tradition. This annual program served as the grand gateway to the season’s final festivities, bringing students and faculty together one last time before the break.

With Mrs. Mylene Santiago as the day’s emcee, the program began with a warm welcome from Dr. Jennifer G. De Guzman.

The stage soon overflowed with talent, starting with a soulful rendition of "Star ng Pasko" by the COBNHS Voices, conducted by SPA Vocals Adviser Sir Kyle Azriel Salazar.

The heart-warming pulse of the event continued with a song from SNED learner Jet Daniel Uy, followed by an electrifying showcase from the SPA dancers, whose high-energy performance set the stage ablaze.

The program also took a moment to celebrate a significant achievement with the screening of the video advocacy entry, which recently gained distinction as the "Most Liked Video" in the Diocesan Youth Ministry in Campus (DYMC) Christmas Event.

Excitement peaked during the Chroma Christmas awarding, where the Grade 8 level was officially crowned Champion for their creative holiday displays.

As OIC Assistant Principal Mr. Gerry A. Deocareza shared his closing remarks, the formal celebration transitioned into the intimate classroom get-togethers.

Beyond the applause and the bright lights of the stage, the day served as a reminder that the true spirit of COBNHS is found in these shared moments of joy—a heartbeat of tradition that continues to pulse through the halls, binding the JHS family together in love and gratitude as they head home for the holidays.

Photos by: Jayra Clarize R. Alfonso and Jhilian B. Eleda

19/12/2025

𝗜𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦| 𝙎𝙋𝙎 𝘾𝙪𝙡𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝘼𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝘽𝙤𝙡𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝘼𝙩𝙝𝙡𝙚𝙩𝙚 𝙍𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙏𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝘽𝙖𝙨𝙞𝙘 𝙁𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 𝘼𝙞𝙙 𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 by Jayra Clarize R. Alfonso

Student-athletes from the Special Program in the Sports (SPS) participated in a Comprehensive Symposium on Basic First Aid yesterday, December 18, at the City of Balanga National High DepEd - City Of Balanga National High School - Junior High School (COBNHS - JHS) covered court.

The event served as the culminating activity for the program under the SDO Balanga City initiative "Bawat Henyo, Balangueño," which aims to foster intelligence, resilience, and practical life skills among local students.

The symposium focused on providing immediate medical responses to common unintentional injuries that athletes encounter during rigorous training sessions. These include open and closed wounds, muscle cramps, sprains, strains, nosebleeds, and headaches.

Serving as resource speakers were Keizer Jei M. Salao and Jefferson M. Salao, representing a joint collaboration between the school's Red Cross Team and the Batang Empowered and Resilient Team (BERT).

During the session, the speakers emphasized that first aid knowledge is as vital as physical conditioning. They demonstrated proper bandaging techniques and the "R.I.C.E." (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) method for soft tissue injuries, ensuring students can act as first responders for their peers during training emergencies.

The activity highlights the school’s commitment to "Bawat Henyo, Balangueño," ensuring that Balangueño athletes are not only skilled in their respective sports but are also equipped with the presence of mind to handle physical risks on and off the field.

Photos by: Chrislinea Jenah S. Santiago and Shean Rhovie F. Garcia

17/12/2025

𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞| 𝘽𝙪𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙖𝙨 𝙐𝙨𝙪𝙖𝙡: 𝙇𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙎𝙩𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙤𝙣 𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝘼𝙢𝙞𝙙𝙨𝙩 𝙇𝙂𝙐 𝘽𝙪𝙞𝙡𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙍𝙚𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙧𝙨 𝙖𝙩 𝘾𝙊𝘽𝙉𝙃𝙎

The sound of hammers and drills may now echo through the hallways, but at DepEd - City Of Balanga National High School - Junior High School (COBNHS JHS) , the pursuit of knowledge remains the top priority.

Major infrastructure repairs at COBNHS JHS' LGU building began last Monday, December 15. Yet, the school administration through School Principal, Dr. Jennifer G. De Guzman, ensured that education will persist without interruption, ensuring that students continue their academic journey even as their physical environment undergoes a transformation.

The groundwork for this project was laid on December 10, 2025, when staff from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Second District held a vital coordination meeting with Dr. De Guzman. The meeting focused on the planned rehabilitation of 15 identified classrooms to provide a safer and more conducive space for learners.

Following the initial coordination, a pre-construction inspection was conducted on December 15, 2025. DPWH personnel, accompanied by SDO Balanga City’s Mr. Renato T. Yuzon (AO V) and Engr. Baron Reigel C. Alarcon, visited the COBNHS Junior High School campus to finalize technical details. Mr. Gerry A. Deocareza, OIC-Assistant Principal, and Ms. Joyce Ann D. Gunio, AO II, met with the visiting team to facilitate the site assessment before the mobilization of the workforce.

The repair of the LGU Building directly affected the classrooms of Grades 8-Velasquez, 7-Yakal, and 7-Guiho. Despite the logistical challenges of moving classes during the final school week of the year, the administration and faculty successfully transferred the affected classes to alternative spaces to maintain instructional hours.

Through the strategic leadership of Dr. Jennifer G. De Guzman and the active cooperation of the teaching staff, the school ensured that infrastructure development and academic excellence proceed simultaneously.

The teachers played a vital role in the transition, quickly adapting their lesson delivery to new settings to ensure that student learning remained the priority.

This collaborative effort maintains the quality of instruction while prioritizing the improvement of the learning environment to make it more conducive for the student body.

As the DPWH continues its work, the students and teachers of COBNHS remain focused on their lessons, proving that the school’s commitment to education remains firm even amidst physical improvements to its facilities.

16/12/2025

𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞| 𝙎𝙉𝙀𝘿 𝙇𝙀𝘼𝙍𝙉𝙀𝙍𝙎 𝙏𝘼𝙆𝙀 𝘾𝙀𝙉𝙏𝙀𝙍 𝙎𝙏𝘼𝙂𝙀 𝙁𝙊𝙍 𝘾𝙊𝘽𝙉𝙃𝙎 𝙅𝙃𝙎' 𝙄𝙉𝙎𝙋𝙄𝙍𝙄𝙉𝙂 𝙏𝘼𝙇𝙀𝙉𝙏 𝙎𝙃𝙊𝙒

The DepEd - City Of Balanga National High School - Junior High School (COBNHS-JHS) incredible SNED Learners took center stage, yesterday, December 15 for a truly inspiring talent show at COBNHS JHS!

The students shone brightly, with judges Engr. Adriane Z. Batungbacal, Ms. Arra O. Adrados, Ms. Galilee Atienza, and Ms. Irene P. Mendoza selecting the winners: Austin's Group (3rd Place), the amazing twins Nathalia Aifa and Nathalie Aimi Nisay (2nd Place), and Jet Daniel Uy (1st Place).

The event was powered by immense generosity: Mr. Arnold Batungbacal provided white uniforms, and Mr. Avel Q. Batungbacal brought a festive Jollibee and other food treat.

The program was graced by Ma'am Lorna V. Guinto, SDO Balanga City EPS for ESP and Division SNED coordinator, who shared an inspirational talk.

Huge credit goes to our supportive school head, Dr. Jennifer G. De Guzman who empowers our dedicated SNED teachers, Ma'am Julie Santiago, Ma'am Rosemarie Tinao, and Ma'am Contessa Macasaet, for making this memorable celebration of talent possible!

Catch some of our talented SNED Learners—including Jet Daniel Uy and Julia Ysabel B. Garcia—as they showcase their skills again tomorrow at the Festival of Talents in Waltermart Balanga City! 🌟💖🏆

15/12/2025

𝗜𝗡 𝗣𝗛𝗢𝗧𝗢𝗦| 🅿🅴🅰🅲🅴, 🅿🆁🅾🆆🅴🆂🆂, 🅰🅽🅳 🅿🆁🅸🅳🅴: 𝘾𝙊𝘽𝙉𝙃𝙎-𝙅𝙃𝙎’ 𝙁𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝙛𝙡𝙖𝙜 𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 2025 𝙘𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙨 𝙨𝙩𝙪𝙙𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙖𝙘𝙝𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨

December 15 - It's a full circle moment!

Beyond today's solemnity of the national anthem and oaths, COBNHS JHS's final flag raising ceremony became a memorable celebration of student Prowess. Departments recognized outstanding achievers, highlighting triumphs from division and national contests that sharpened skills in Math, excelled in Journalism, and nurtured holistic growth through Values Education and dedicated Religious Clubs and Organizations. Special recognition was also given for their dedication to cleanliness and eco-friendly initiatives.

The entire ceremony affirmed that COBNHS students are truly ready to complete this chapter and embrace the next, leaving a lasting legacy of talent, peace, and responsibility! 🇵🇭🏆💚

Photos by: Chrislinea Jenah S. Santiago, Jayra Clarize R. Alfonso, and Rizzy Joy A. Loreto

13/12/2025

𝗝𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗜𝗡| 𝘾𝙊𝘽𝙉𝙃𝙎-𝙅𝙃𝙎 𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙩𝙝 𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙮 𝘽𝙖𝙜𝙨 𝙈𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙞𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝘼𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙨 𝙖𝙩 𝘿𝙞𝙤𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙖𝙣 𝙀𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩

The Diocesan Youth Ministry in Campus (DYMC) of the DepEd - City Of Balanga National High School - Junior High School (COBNHS-JHS) won several awards today, December 13, at the Mary Christ Mass Party Diocesan Youth Ministry in Campus event, held at the PENELCO Auditorium in Balanga City, Bataan.

Embodying the theme "Pasko ng Pag-asa: Liwanag sa Bawat isa," the COBNHS-JHS delegation showcased their talent and commitment across various competitons.

The team secured the Most Reacted in the Short Video Making Contest for a video created by Grade 10 students Fieryn Zhier P. Ebido, Shean Rhovie F. Garcia, Mykaella Izhea M. Sunglao, Cheska Nicole C. Casaway, Albert De Nieva, and James Alexis E. Angeles.

Furthermore, the COBNHS-JHS contingent excelled in the Dancefest Contest, winning both the 2nd Runner-Up position overall and the award for Best in Choreography. The dance performance was notably executed under the expertise and passionate guidance of Ma'am Honeyleene P. Bautista.

The students were guided throughout the contests by the DYMC COBNHS-JHS advisers, Mr. Edwin I. Omega and Mrs. Lily M. Sanchez.

Photos by: Sir Edwin I. Omega

09/12/2025

𝗜𝗡 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦| 𝘿𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙤𝙛 𝙇𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨: 𝙉𝙚𝙬 𝙎𝙚𝙣𝙞𝙤𝙧 𝙎𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙥 𝙇𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙄𝙣𝙫𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙖𝙩 𝘾𝙊𝘽𝙉𝙃𝙎-𝙅𝙃𝙎 by Geoff Rene Niñalga

A memorable Girl Scout Investiture was held today, December 9, at DepEd - City Of Balanga National High School — Junior High School (COBNHS-JHS), officially welcoming a new batch of young women into the movement.

The ceremony opened with Ma’am Maria Cristina Dagohoy leading the program, followed by the traditions that mark every Girl Scout’s journey: the Girl Scout Song, the Philippine National Anthem, and a prayer by Maricel D. Lemen. The heart of the ritual began when the girl scouts recited the "Panunumpa ng katapatan sa Watawat ng Pilipinas" led by Thea Cathlyn Yambao, the Girl Scout Promise led by Claire Dennise L. Vargas, and the Girl Scout Law recited by Trishia Claire O. Meriado.

Then a warm welcome message was delivered by school head, Dr. Jennifer G. De Guzman, acknowledging the presence of guests, parents, teachers, and Girl Scouts. Greetings from Division GSP Coordinator and Education Program Supervisor of Values Education, Ma'am Lorna V. Guinto, and GSP Council Executive Ma'am Divina Agustin further highlighted the importance of the event.

The investiture proceeded with the official designation of the Senior Scouts and Troop Leaders, followed by the Oath of Duty. The ceremony was also graced by Ma'am Melinda Nisay, Assistant Principal of Cupang Integrated School, who solemnized the investing of the neckerchief and World Pin. The Girl Scout Song played again as neckerchiefs were placed first on the teachers and then on the scouts, who received the traditional Girl Scout clap.

The candle-lighting ritual, which was performed by COBNHS-JHS GSP coordinator, Ma'am Galilee S. Atienza with Ma'am Rosalyn B. Marquez, Ma'am Maryann A. Guitalig, and Ma'am Esperanza G. De Leon for the managing leaders, was a central part of the ceremony. Following this, there was the recognition of the Five Patrol of each group, and the awarding of the World Pin symbolized the responsibilities and global sisterhood of every Girl Scout. The program ended with the Senior Girl Scouts’ Commitment Declaration.

A message of gratitude from Sir Jerry Deocareza concluded the program, offering a warm welcome to the new members and ending the event with heartfelt thanks and congratulations.

Photos by: Samara R. Morales and Rhea Mea G. Ramos

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