The Catalyst, 3/F (Left Wing) Central Library, Eastern Samar State University/Main Campus, Borongan (2025)

23/09/2025

𝗞𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗺 | 𝗣𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘀, 𝗣𝗜𝗟𝗜𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗹𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗯𝗮𝗻— 𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗴𝗶𝗹 𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗽𝗮𝗴𝗽𝗶𝗸𝗶𝘁!
ni Sheeren Athena Docena

Labis na ang pagmamalabis!

Tuluyan nang nag-apoy ang disgusto sa korupsyon sa isinagawang Trillion Peso March. Ito ang araw na nagpapakita na ang bayan ay hindi natutulog, at ang tao ay sumasabog.

Bagamat makasaysayan para sa iba ang pangyayaring ito, marami pa rin ang mga Pilipino ang nag-aagamang kung ang protesta ay makakapagbago o magdudulot lamang ng panibagong gulo. Ngunit para sa mga Pilipino na puno pa rin ng agam-agam, ang protesta ay hindi isang gulo—ito ay ang sigaw ng bayan sa lubos na pagtutol sa pagmamalabis ng kapangyarihan ng gobyerno.

Marami man ang hindi sang-ayon, pinatutunayan ng pangyayaring ito na minsan ang katahimikan ay hindi sagot, at ang dagundong ng ingay ang tunay na makakapagbago.

Kaya’t, wala man tayo sa protesta, gamitin natin ang ating boses upang manindigan: sana’y makawala ang Pilipinas mula sa kuko ng mga mandurugas na nag-iisip na sila’y mga agila—mga agilang mababaw ang lipad dahil puno ng kasakiman.

Tama na! Sapat na ang pagmamalabis; ang katiwalian ay umaalingasaw—tunay na pagkalansa. Hindi lang sa flood control ito; kalakip na rin dito ang sandamakmak na isyu na naglaho na parang bula: Confidential funds (2024), PhilHealth fund issue (2024), DOH expired drugs and COVID vaccines (2023: Source ABS-CBN news), 1,000 unusable classrooms mula sa DPWH projects (2025 Source: Inquirer News), at maling paggamit ng AKAP (Ayuda para sa Kapos Palad: Source Philstar– at iba pang balita na nagpapakita ng anomalya nito sa ibang lugar). Ito lamang ay iilan sa mga anomalya at korupsyon na natabunan; masaklap na ang mga nasangkot na sektor ay yaong mga dapat sana ay tumulong sa pag-unlad ng Pilipinas.

Sumakatuwid, nawa'y ang araw na ito ay hindi lamang maging araw ng ingay at pagpapasikat na nakikisama sa laban kontra korupsyon. Sana maging patunay ito na hindi bulag, p**i, at bingi ang sambayanan sa mga anomalya. Patunayan natin kung ano ang tunay na kahulugan ng kalayaan.

Pilipinas kong minamahal, naway hindi ka talikuran ng mga Pilipinong iyong sinisinta. Isabuhay natin ang adhika ng pagmamahal sa bayan—mag-ingay, maging mapagmatyag, at bumoto ng tama. Kung nais ninyo ng pagbabago, tayo lamang, mga Pilipino, ang makakapagpabago sa sistemang bulok.

Kayong mga nakaupo at nagmamalabis—ang p**t ng bayan ay inyong malalasahan; kayo ay babagsak sa sarili ninyong kasakiman. At tayong mga nakaluhod sa mga nakaupo, kung hindi ngayon, kailan pa? — kapag tayo’y tuluyang lumugmok habang sila ay patuloy na umaangat?

Pilipino, huwag kayong maging mababaw! Gising na—ang kapangyarihan ay nasa ating kamay, hindi sa kanila. Kaya naman ang aking hamon: ano ang magagawa mo para sa bayan? Pipikit ka ba, o magiging mulat? — Ang boses mo ang magwawakas sa mga gumugulpi sa ating Pilipinas na minumutya.

Dibuho ni Yasser Abdul | The Catalyst Multimedia

13/09/2025

𝗘𝗦𝗦𝗨 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁𝘀, 𝗦𝗣𝗔𝘀 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿-𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗽𝘂𝘀 𝗢𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸

Student journalists and publication advisers across Eastern Samar State University (ESSU) convened for the Inter-Campus Orientation on the Campus Journalism Handbook, yesterday, September 12, at the Main Library, ESSU-Main Campus.

Student journalists representing various ESSU campus publications attended including The Catalyst of Borongan-Main, Panan-aw Publication of Maydolong, Campus Quill of Guiuan, The Green Thumb of Salcedo, Golden Grain of Can-Avid, and Pagtalinguha of Arteche.

The orientation aimed to equip student journalists with the newly formulated handbook, reinforce their understanding of editorial policies, ethical standards, and professional responsibilities, and foster unity among campus publications to protect student voices and uphold press freedom.

The program commenced with a welcome address from Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Vicente A. Agda Jr., presented by Dr. Deo Bartolome Nicart, who emphasized empowering campus journalists as partners in promoting responsible and ethical journalism across ESSU campuses.

Dr. Nicart delivered an inspiring message, highlighting the vital role of journalists. "Student journalists, remember this: a student publication is not just a paper filled with words but a platform of influence, a space where truth is told, ideas are exchanged, and the university's heartbeat is expressed," he stated. He also underscored the significant impact of a journalist's words, noting, "Remember that words carry weight; your words carry weight."

Head of Student Publication and Multimedia Broadcasting and Services at the Main Campus, Prof. Marissa Beato, introduced the general orientation and presented the Code of Ethics in Campus Journalism.

Meanwhile, Head of Multimedia for The Catalyst, Prof. Hanh Saji Arre, discussed the governance and structure outlined in the student handbook for both student journalists and paper advisers.

The Policies and Guidelines were presented by Prof. Carrie Ann Padrique of ESSU Maydolong, while Prof. Niño Laureano Lumagbas of ESSU Salcedo elaborated on the handbook's Operational Processes.

Rights and Responsibilities were covered by Prof. Maria Rosario Abdu, also from ESSU Salcedo. Conflict Resolution and Grievance Procedures were introduced by Prof. Christian Tristan Gaytos of ESSU Guiuan. Prof. Reynan Rivera of ESSU Can-Avid delivered the Suspension Guidelines for members of the student publication. Adviser of the Broadcasting System, Prof. Christiana Irel Davila, concluded the presentations with a discussion on training and development, recognition, and awards.

The event concluded with certificates of participation awarded to the school paper advisers and journalists present. A photo opportunity followed, along with discussions among the advisers regarding future activities and the implementation of the student journalist handbook.

The overall discussion emphasized the sentiment that "The pen is not mightier than the sword; it's your voice, your vision, and your power."

via Lenie Padullo | The Catalyst
Photos by Andrew Aclao | The Catalyst Multimedia

12/09/2025

𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗼𝘄 — Publication advisers and student journalists convene for the first Inter-Campus Orientation on Campus Journalism Handbook, at the 2nd floor, Main Library, ESSU-Main Campus, today, September 12.

The said gathering aims to equip student journalists with the newly formulated handbook while reinforcing their knowledge of editorial policies, ethical standards, and professional responsibilities. It further seeks to unite campus publications across ESSU in safeguarding student voices and upholding press freedom.

Phoebe Joy Amos | The Catalyst
Photos by S. Añosa, Y. Abdul | The Catalyst Multimedia

07/09/2025

𝗠𝗡𝗛𝗦' 𝗧𝗿𝗶𝗯𝘂 𝗦𝗮𝗴𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗸 𝗰𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗺𝘀 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸-𝘁𝗼-𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗣𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗹-𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝘃𝗶𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆

Maypangdan National High School's Tribu Sagitik wins big in the 31st Padul-ong Festival Competition, bagging the coveted championship for the second consecutive year, along with multiple awards on the grand competition on Sunday, September 7.

MNHS emerged against five other contingents from Borongan and the neighboring municipalities of Sulat and Maydolong, along with their special awards for Best in Costume and Best in Choreography.

Eastern Samar National Comprehensive High School's Tribu Magkasi-Kasi came in second place and an award for Best Musicality.

Meanwhile, Sta. Fe National High School's Tribu Rayhak is this year's third runner up.

Calingatngan National High School's Tribu Parag-uma also shone with their Best Festival Queen Award.

Top three placers were awarded trophies and cash prizes of P300,000, P250,000, and P200,OOO, respectively.

Special award winners also received P10,000 per award.

Other participating contingents include Tribu Dolong from Maydolong nd Tribu Kausa from Sulat Rising Youth.

John Laurence Morales | The Catalyst
Photos by K. Villasin, L. Borja, A. Aclao, L. Dulfo, C. Andag, J. Acol, Y. Abdul, R. Anacta, M. Anabaab, C. Yu | The Catalyst Multimedia

07/09/2025

Beaming through the light showers of dawn, Boronganons' faith and devotion shine as the city commemorated the Padul-ong Festival with its annual fluvial parade on Sunday, September 7.

The celebration began with an early morning mass at Barangay Punta Maria, after which devotees sailed to accompany the image of the Nativity of Our Lady as it crossed the waters to the Rawis port.

Aboard the mother boat with the image were this year’s hermanidad, the Japzon family, together with local officials and organizers of the event.

Upon the image’s arrival at the port, the colorful Padul-ong dance parade commenced, joined by various schools from Borongan City and neighboring municipalities in the province.

John Laurence Morales | The Catalyst
Photos by M. Anabaab, C. Yu | The Catalyst Multimedia

07/09/2025

𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗣𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗹-𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗙𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱

The Fluvial Parade gracefully concludes, heralding the commencement of the highly anticipated Padul-ong Festival Parade today, September 7, 2025. Government officials and participants of the Padul-ong Festival are prominently featured in this grand procession.

Adorned in resplendent attire that captivates the senses, participants execute their Padul-ong Dance with finesse and sophistication, showcasing their exceptional talents and prowess. This year, six distinguished contingents vied for supremacy in the Padul-ong Festival Competition: Tribu Dolong (Municipality of Maydolong), Sagitic Performing Arts Guild (MNHS), Tribu Rayhak (Sta. Fe National High School), Tribu Parag-uma (Calingatngan National High School), Tribu Magkasi-kasi (Eastern Samar National Comprehensive High School), and Tribu Kausa (Sulat Rising Youth).

Leading the vanguard of the parade are the priests of Borongan City, proudly carrying flags, followed by the solemn procession bearing the revered image of the patroness of Borongan City, Nuestra Señora de la Natividad, accompanied by esteemed members of the city government, a display of floating boat entries from various creatives, and a convoy with this year's Hermana Mayor.

The parade proceeds along a carefully planned route, reaching its climax at the City Cultural Plaza, where the highly anticipated Padul-ong Festival Dance Competition is set to commence.

Lenie Padullo | The Catalyst
Photos by C. Yu, R. Anacta, M. Anabaab, A. Aclao | The Catalyst Multimedia

07/09/2025

𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗲𝘁𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗞𝗶𝗰𝗸𝘀 𝗢𝗳𝗳 𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗼𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗔𝗳𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗿𝗱-𝗕𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲

Following a lengthy Civic Military Parade, the 2025 Interschool Marching Band Competition officially began at the city plaza today, September 6, showcasing marching bands from across the Borongan City Division.

The ceremony commenced with a prayer and the singing of the national anthem.

Hon. Emman Tiu Songco, City Vice Mayor highlighted the parade's unprecedented length, noting it as the longest in history of the city, lasting four hours. He stated, ""Natika halaba it at parade pira na ini ka-oras pero maupay ini na senyales...[kay] karuyag sidngon la hini nga damo na iton nasuporta hini nga aton pan gobernohan".

Afterwards, Hon. Nelson Cortez, Eastern Samar Provincial Administrator, representing Provincial Governor Ralph Vincent Evardone, conveyed a motivational message, emphasizing "Action speaks louder than words." he also added, "tikang han pag tikang ngada kahuman binunyog gudman hiya, pagpakita hin suporta hini nga aton programa han city han Borongan".

Furthermore, Hon. Jose Ivan Dayan Agda, City Mayor added to the enthusiasm, emphasizing that the event was not only a competition but an opportunity for the audience to enjoy the talent on display, stating, " kay ini nga... [selebrasyon] para in haiyo nga mga magkurulaw, dire la para ha competition but this is for all to enjoy ini nga aton paisan isan yana."

The board of judges and competition criteria were then introduced, setting the stage for the performances, which began with the elementary level. Despite varying weather conditions, the competition proceeded, with the elementary level followed by the secondary level.

Ultimately, Taboc Elementary School Marching Band (TESMB) emerged victorious in the elementary level, and the defending champion, Sta. Fe National High School Marching Band (SFNHSMB), triumphed in the secondary level. Meanwhile, the said champion from both levels got the same title as 'Best in Musicality'

via Lenie Padullo | The Catalyst
Photos by: K. Villasin, C. Yu, R. Anacta, C. Andag, A. Aclao, J. Acol | The Catalyst Multimedia

07/09/2025

𝗜𝗖𝗬𝗠𝗜: Sta. Fe National High School (SFNHS) emerged victorious as they bagged the grand prize in this year's Marching Band Competition on September 6, yesterday at the Borongan City Plaza

Following the Civic Military Parade, marching bands from various schools showcased outstanding performances during the echibition and the competition in the said event.

Upon the actual competition, the winners were announced based on the score sheet provided by the judges, Mr. Lorie Emmanuel Arago, Mrs. Ginalyn Avila, and Mrs. Gloria Gunda-Corado.

For the elementary level:

Champion: Taboc Elementary School
1st runner up: Lalawigan Elementary School
2nd runner up: Eugenio A. Abunda Sr. Elementary School (EAASES)

For the secondary level:

Champion: Sta. Fe National High School (SFNHS)
1st Runner up: Maypangdan National High School (MNHS)
2nd runner up: Eastern Samar National Comprehensive High School (ESNCHS)

Moreover, both champions from the marching band competitions also coveted the special award 'Best In Musicality'. This also marks SFNHS defending their championship title from last year's competition.

Furthermore, the non-winners for elementary and secondary schools will receive 10,000 pesos as consolation prizes.

via Kyle Apelado | The Catalyst
Photos by: K. Villasin, Y. Abdul | The Catalyst Multimedia

06/09/2025

𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞 — The Borongan City Plaza is filled with energy and rhythm as various schools gathered to showcase their talents in the Marching Band Competition. The festive atmosphere was heightened by the vibrant presence of the performers who filled the venue with music and movement.

With their striking and colorful uniforms accompanied by their harmonized and synchronized instrumentals, the following groups provide a captivating auditory experience for the viewers.

Kyle Apelado | The Catalyst
Photos by Y. Abdul | The Catalyst Multimedia

06/09/2025

𝗛𝗔𝗣𝗣𝗘𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗡𝗢𝗪 — Civic Military Parade is in full swing in Borongan City as part of this year’s fiesta celebration.

The parade starts at the Eastern Samar National Comprehensive High School (ESNCHS) Oval and proceeds to the City Plaza this morning, September 6, 2025.

Joining the parade are key agencies such as the City Government of Borongan, City School Division, Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), Philippine Army, Philippine National Police (PNP), Provincial Government of Eastern Samar, Department of Education (DepEd) Eastern Samar Division, Philippine Maritime, and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP).

Highlighting the festive spirit are the Marching Bands from various elementary, high schools, college, and university in the city, including:

Eugenio A. Abunda Sr. Elementary School (EAASSES)
Lalawigan Central Elementary School (LCES)
Taboc Elementary School (TES)
Eugenio S. Daza Pilot Elementary School (ESDPES)
Eastern Visayas International Montessori School (EVIMS)
Calingatngan Elementary School (CES)
Punta Maria Elementary School (PMES)
Cabong Elementary School (CES)
Bugas Elementary School (BES)
Locso-on Elementary School (LES)
Maypangdan Elementary School (MES)
Santa Fe Elementary School (SFES)
Sabang Integrated School (SIS)
Maypangdan National High School (MNHS)
Calingatngan National High School (CNHS)
Santa Fe National High School (SFNHS)
Fidel E. Anacta Sr. National High School (FEASNHS)
Eastern Samar National Comprehensive High School (ESNCHS)
MSH Sisters of Academy (MSHSA)
Eastern Samar State University (ESSU)
Benowangan National High School (BNHS)
St. Mary’s College (SMC)
Lalawigan National High School (LNHS)

The parade showcases not only the unity of agencies and institutions but also the musical and artistic talents of students as they compete in the Marching Band competition.

Boronganons are lining the streets to witness the vibrant display of discipline, music, and civic pride as the parade continues toward the heart of the city.

via Raquel Panillos | The Catalyst
Photos by K. Villasin, C. Andag, C. Yu, R. Anacta, A. Aclao, J. Acol | The Catalyst Multimedia

05/09/2025

𝗛𝗔𝗣𝗣𝗘𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗡𝗢𝗪 — Preparations are underway at the Eastern Samar National Comprehensive High School Oval for the Borongan City Fiesta Civic Military Parade.

Participants from various competing schools for the Marching Band competition are getting ready with their instruments, uniforms, and formations as the city gears up for the big festivity.

via Jeron Vic Dulfo | The Catalyst
Photos by K. Villasin | The Catalyst Multimedia

28/08/2025

𝗞𝗼𝗹𝘂𝗺 | 𝗝𝗼𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗻𝗶 𝗸𝗮𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗯𝗼
Artikulo at Dibuho ni Phoebe Joy M. Amos

Napuri na, kumita pa. Klarong propaganda, nakaanyong iba. Sa panahon ng sakuna, tugon niya’y mangimi at magpigil. Ngunit ang hiling ni Juan ay serbisyong tapat — nakikita at nararamdaman. Nakakabahalang isipin na ang buwis ng mamamayan ay bumabalik sa anyong baha. Sino ba ang dapat mahiya?

Matatandaan noong ika-28 ng Hulyo 2025, ipinahayag ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ang kanyang ikaapat na State of the Nation Address (SONA). Sunod-sunod ang anunsyo ukol sa kalagayan ng bansa, mga plano, mga proyektong natapos, at pagpupugay sa mga gantimpalang nakamit. Marami na raw ang nagawa sa sektor ng agrikultura, elektrisidad, imprastruktura, kalusugan, at transportasyon — subalit may kulang. Sa kabila ng ipinagmamalaking tagumpay, nalalambitin ang tunay na pangangailangan ni Juan.

“Sa mga nakikipagsabwatan upang kunin ang pondo ng bayan at nakawin ang kinabukasan ng ating mga mamamayan, mahiya naman kayo sa inyong kapwa Pilipino,” giit ng Pangulo. “Mahiya naman kayo sa mga kabahayan nating naanod o nalubog sa mga pagbaha,” pagmamalaking banggit niya. Matingkad dito ang matapang niyang panawagan laban sa katiwalian sa implementasyon ng mga flood control projects — isang pahayag na nagbibigay-diin sa responsibilidad ng gobyerno sa mamamayan, lalo na sa mga lugar na taon-taong tinatamaan ng bagyo at matinding pag-ulan.

Hindi maiwasang magtaka ng isang Juan na katulad ko. Sa soberanyang patuloy na humaharap sa kalamidad, walang puwang ang tuso’t mandaraya — lalo na sa mga walang ibang ginawa kundi maghanap ng masisisi. Hindi ba't bago ang implementasyon ng mga proyektong ito ay kailangang dumaan sa mahigpit na pag-aanalisa — sa pagtukoy sa pangangailangan, pondo, at lalong-lalo na sa magiging epekto sa kapaligiran at lipunan. Sa gobyernong tapat, agarang nauusisa ang pagkukulang. Sa gobyernong baluktot, ni wala sa ordinaryong Juan na kaparehong kulay ang bigat ng pribilehiyo —nasa matataas na kaalyado.

Bilang Pangulo, nararapat lamang na isama ang sarili sa mga dapat managot. Ang mamamayang Pilipino ay hindi eksperimento na kapag pumalpak sa pilot testing ay puwede na lang ulitin. Higit pa rito ang usapin ng flood control projects: kapakanan ng bawat Pilipino ang nakataya. Kinakailangan nito ang masusing pag-aaral at maayos na implementasyon — hindi ang pagtuturuan ng mga korap na opisyal at kontraktor na nasa isang tribo.

Dahil sa lubhang pangangailangan ng pondo, napagsasamantalahan ang hindi dapat at nauuwi sa sabwatan at pandaraya. Ang balik? Buwis ng tao na nag-aanyong baha.

Ang tunay na sukatan ng pamumuno ay hindi lamang sa dami ng proyektong naipapahayag, kundi sa kung paano nito tinutugunan ang ugat ng problema at pinangangalagaan ang kapakanan ng bawat mamamayan. Sa usapin ng pagbaha at katiwalian, hindi sapat ang mga salita o paninisi—kailangang may pananagutan at kongkretong solusyon. Sa huli, ang tiwala ng taumbayan ay nakasalalalay sa tapat at wagas na serbisyo, hindi sa hungkag na talasalitaan.

Sa administrasyong hindi masukat ang integridad, malabo ang isang lider maging kakampi ng ordinaryong Juan, ngunit hindi ang maging katribo ng mga sangkot sa mga katiwalian.

The Catalyst

23/09/2025

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12/09/2025

07/09/2025

07/09/2025

07/09/2025

07/09/2025

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28/08/2025

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