Ang Giya Journal

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The official student publication of the School of Education, Xavier-Ateneo de Cagayan. ✏️

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On the 5th of October, widely known as World Teachers’ Day, Ang Giya Journal joins in celebrating and honoring all educa...
05/10/2025

On the 5th of October, widely known as World Teachers’ Day, Ang Giya Journal joins in celebrating and honoring all educators of whose knowledge, compassion, and commitment have shaped many minds throughout history. Your lessons have transformed into legacies, and your service shines a light onto every learner’s path.

Amidst the challenges, may your spirits continue to not waver, patience continue to be boundless, and dedication continue to be overflowing.

Happy World Teachers’ Day to all educators who continue to make learning a gift and the world a better place.

Layout by Jeasette Ragmac


On October 4, 2025, the Teachers’ Guild (TG), along with other student volunteers from the School of Education, launched...
04/10/2025

On October 4, 2025, the Teachers’ Guild (TG), along with other student volunteers from the School of Education, launched relief efforts for the victims of the recent fire incident that took place at Barangay 17 last Thursday.

On the day of the incident, the Council set up a Donation Drive to provide both financial and hygienic aid to the victims. The following day, face-to-face donation drives were employed at the Magis Canteen before the donations were dropped off at Munting Lapis in the afternoon in preparation for the distribution at the evacuation site the next day.

The Council — in partnership with Handuraw CDO as well as the Local Government Unit of Barangay 17 — helped in distributing relief goods, clothing, water, and other forms of aid to the residents of the barangay today. Approximately 121 families were reportedly present. As a response, they prepared a total of 130 goods with the help of Barangay 17’s LGU.

The Council, along with the university, continues to welcome any form of assistance that could help uplift the residents of Barangay 17 from this unprecedented adversity. You may choose to drop off your donations at the Teachers’ Guild Council Office (STC 210) or send any amount to this GCash number: 09754840454 (Felicidad Paquit).

Report by Maxi Fajardo
Layout by Maxi Fajardo


30/09/2025

From September 24 to 27, the 2025 General Assembly and Organizational Trip (GAOT) was held with the theme, “Beyond Beginnings”.

Day 1 opened with an OrgTrip Parade, beginning at the Museo de Oro and ending at the field. There, exciting segments such as the Cluster Fashion Show and Cheer Chant Competition ensued.

For Day 2, the main highlight of the day was the Battle of the Bands contest organized by the XU Soundtable. Representing the School of Education are “The Chalkboarders”, opening with Katseye’s “Gabriela” and their unique rendition of Frozen’s “Let it Go”.

For the last day, the long-awaited Emblem Night arrived. After exemplifying unmatched energy in their Cheer Chant performance, the School of Education Emblems — Mr. Nathan Josh Ruelo and Ms. Leona Angelica de la Rita — spread their wings and soared high, utilizing their platforms in sharing their advocacy, “Tinta sa Kaugmaon: Tutoring Hope, Building Dreams,” geared toward responding to the inadequate educational support of many children to date.

The evening culminated in a historic triumph as Mr. Ruelo bagged the crown of Mr. Emblem of Excellency 2025, while Ms. de la Rita was hailed as Emblem of Goodwill 2025. Furthermore, the School defended its title as back-to-back Champions in the Cheer Chant Competition.

Relive in this episode the defining highlights of GAOT 2025 and how the Phoenixes dealt their hand in this momentous event.

Stay tuned for more exciting news here in Ang Giya Journal, the official publication of the School of Education.

Report by Maxi Fajardo


On this year’s Emblem Night, the School of Education representatives secured a spot in the top 3, with Mr. Nathan Ruelo ...
28/09/2025

On this year’s Emblem Night, the School of Education representatives secured a spot in the top 3, with Mr. Nathan Ruelo bagging the crown of Mr. Emblem of Excellency 2025, and Ms. Leona de la Rita as Miss Emblem of Goodwill 2025.

Clad in accents of navy blue and silver, the two emblems spread their wings and shined on the stage, representing the children whose education had not been sufficiently sustained.

Photo by Jeasette Ragmac
Layout by Jeasette Ragmac


During the Panunumpa 2025, Teachers’ Guild President, Justine Dave Paquit, delivers his 100 Days Report on the progressi...
25/09/2025

During the Panunumpa 2025, Teachers’ Guild President, Justine Dave Paquit, delivers his 100 Days Report on the progressive steps the council has taken since the beginning of his term.

Significant achievements stated in his report are: the launching of the council’s new branding, “SIGA: Blazing Beyond”; partnership with DAKILA CDO in donating approximately 50 packs of goods to the Arrupe Educational Center (AEC) students; and garnering the title of “Outstanding Community Project in Youth Organization” for Project Magtudlo during Oro Youth’s KASADYA Culmination 2025.

With these and many more, the council is said to have already implemented 23% of their General Plan of Action (GPOA) in a span of four months.

Thus, this significant achievement marks an undeniable truth that resonates with the School of Education community: that strength does not rely on numbers, but is built on the flames of passion and service that each individual carries.

Photo by Teachers' Guild
Layout by Jeasette Ragmac


On September 24, 2025, officers of the Teachers’ Guild (TG) participated in the annual Oath-Taking Ceremony known as the...
24/09/2025

On September 24, 2025, officers of the Teachers’ Guild (TG) participated in the annual Oath-Taking Ceremony known as the Panunumpa 2025 with the theme, “Commitment to Leadership and Service”. Following challenges in its implementation last academic year, the event was successfully revived by the Supreme Constitutional Court and the Electoral Commission (ELECOM) this year.

The event commenced with the entrance of the Supreme Constitutional Court Justices. Afterwards, the preliminaries, including the Invocation, singing of the National Anthem, and the Xavier Hymn, ensued, marking the official start of the ceremony.

To welcome the student leaders, Mr. Hans Dejarme, Chief Justice of the Supreme Constitutional Court, presented his Opening Remarks speech, emphasizing the ceremony’s purpose of safeguarding principles of democratic governance. He also urged the student leaders to look back on this solemn occasion as a reminder for them to persevere in their commitment to service.

Following his speech then came the main event for the student leaders: the Oath-Taking Ceremony. The XU-CSG President–Mr. Philip Talaba–and Vice President–Ms. Bea Moncay–along with ELECOM’s Commissioners and respective Presidents of each college council, marched down the aisle and situated onstage to face the rest of the student leaders as they pledged their oaths of commitment in unison. Thereafter, representatives and Presidents of each organization and council, respectively, delivered their 100 Days Report, highlighting the various accomplishments and milestones of their respective schools or colleges from the beginning of their term. Mr. Justine Paquit, TG President, represented the council and stated a number of their achievements, one of which is Project Magtudlo's successful win as Outstanding Community Project for Social Involvement at Oro Youth’s KASADYA Culmination last September 1, 2025.

The ceremony then concluded with a Closing Remarks speech by the Project Head of Panunumpa 2025, Mr. John Gundaran, where he stated how leadership is not a privilege, but rather a responsibility. Furthermore, the Supreme Constitutional Court Justices' exits marked the official end of the event.

Report by Maxi Fajardo
Layout by Maxi Fajardo


On September 20, 2025, the semestral commemoration or the Phoenix Accolades for the Dean’s Lister students for the 2nd S...
21/09/2025

On September 20, 2025, the semestral commemoration or the Phoenix Accolades for the Dean’s Lister students for the 2nd Semester of school year 2024-2025 from the School of Education was held at the AVR 1, with blue-blooded phoenixes carrying pride and honor as they received their awards for achieving academic distinction.

The program commenced with the preliminaries, which included the Opening Prayer, singing of the National Anthem, and the Xavier Hymn. This was followed by an inspiring welcoming remarks by Ms. Carly Faye Luna, the Teacher’s Guild moderator and School of Education faculty member, reminding the students of their role and duty as future educators who embody excellence with character.

Subsequently, the awarding of the Dean’s Listers started with the second honors, in which each student received their certificate of recognition. These awards were presented by Ms. Leona Angelica de la Rita (Phoenix Accolades - Project Head), Ms. Carly Faye Luna (Teacher’s Guild Moderator), and Mr. Justine Dave Paquit (Teacher’s Guild President), followed by a photo opportunity for the awardees. Afterwards, the event shifted towards a jovial mood as Ms. Heidi Santillan (BSNEd - 3) serenaded the crowd with her intermission number. This was then followed by a duet with Mr. Vilchie Camomot (BSED Mathematics - 2), adding to the atmosphere of the event, and a surprise performance from Mr. Nyko Orinay (BSED English - 3) and Ms. Danica Vallespin (BEED - 4).

After the intermission numbers, the event continued with the awarding ceremony for the first honors, each receiving their certificates of recognition.

To officially wrap up the event, a closing prayer and a photo opportunity with the attendees of the event transpired, bright smiles full of delight flashed upon accepting their commendations.

Report by Karylle Caracho
Layout by Maxi Fajardo


On September 1, 2025, Project Magtudlo sa Munting Lapis, an initiative by the Teachers’ Guild (TG), was awarded Outstand...
03/09/2025

On September 1, 2025, Project Magtudlo sa Munting Lapis, an initiative by the Teachers’ Guild (TG), was awarded Outstanding Community Project for Social Involvement at the KASADYA Culmination, with the theme: “Celebrating Milestones of Kagay-anon Youth.”

Held at the City Tourism Hall of Cagayan de Oro City, KASADYA – also known as this year’s Oro Youth Month – took place for the entirety of August and concluded last Monday with a Culmination Program. This event was spearheaded by the Oro Youth Development Office (OYDO), led by OYDO Officer-in-Charge Lord Saver “Vhaugne” Centina, and the Sangguniang Kabataan Federation of Cagayan de Oro. Various Oro Youth organizations were invited and recognized for their exemplary performance and service to the city.

Last August 13, the Teachers’ Guild, with Ms. Yumi Canong (TG 3rd Year Representative) and Ms. Alyssa Semini (Former Project Magtudlo Associate Program Head) representing the council, had a panel interview with select Oro Youth Awards panelists to promote Project Magtudlo sa Munting Lapis, as one of the nominees vying for the Outstanding Community Project for Social Involvement award. This initiative – which employed student volunteers from the School of Education to tutor the children at the Munting Lapis Neighborhood Center – began last June 2024. With consistency and hard work, the project was recognized as Best Project during the Educ Awards Night 2025.

After further deliberation and review, the award was then granted to the Teachers’ Guild through the aforementioned project. Mr. Justine Paquit (TG President), Mr. Josh Labial (Former Project Magtudlo Program Head), and Ms. Vea Baconguis (TG 4th Year Representative) represented the council as they received the Plaque of Recognition on the night of the Culmination. This success marks yet another significant milestone for both the council and the project.

Report by Maxi Fajardo
Layout by Maxi Fajardo


12/08/2025

Day two of ORSEM 2025 kicks off with vibrant energy as the School of Education (SOE) hosts its College Assembly at XU AVR 1. The SOE’s Mega Crew, along with Teachers' Guild's Core, Department, and Co-Curricular Officers, set the tone with a lively dance number, followed by a high-energy icebreaker, which helped spark engagement and interaction for the event to occur.

The freshmen were further welcomed with warm introductions, insightful knowledge, and inspiring discussions led by key figures within and beyond SOE. They explored the range of organizations open to them and met the mentors who would accompany them throughout their college journey.

Keep an eye on Ang Giya Journal’s official page to catch the latest news.

Report by Gift Sanchez


IN PHOTOS: On July 17, 2025, the Xavier University Night School Program–Alternative Learning System (XUNSP-ALS) under th...
10/08/2025

IN PHOTOS: On July 17, 2025, the Xavier University Night School Program–Alternative Learning System (XUNSP-ALS) under the Arrupe Educational Center (AEC) held its 8th Commencement Awards with the theme, “BAHANDI: Bridging Dreams, Building Futures: United in Resilience”. The event, held at AVR 1, honored the 14 esteemed graduates of Batch 9 from both elementary and high school levels, marking a significant academic milestone. Families and educators came together to share in their success.

The celebration commenced with a Hooding Ceremony, where the respective families and companions of each graduate draped their hoods, followed by the Entrance of Colors and a Processional March. To formally welcome the audience, an inspiring Opening Remarks given by AEC Director and Project Leader, Mr. Ismael B. Salarda, ensued, followed by a Welcome Address from the Top NSP Learner at the Elementary Level, Ms. Sophia Beatrice Lomocso. Subsequently, a Keynote Speech was presented by Ms. Richel Petalcurin-Dahay, the Acting Department Manager of the City Education and Development Office.

Soon after, the program continued with the awarding of certificates to all completers, beginning with the Elementary batch before proceeding to the High School batch. Every after each batch, select NSP Learners shared their stories of toil and perseverance, providing a touching glimpse into their journeys, which have shaped them into the individuals they are today. A lively Batch Song performance also took place with the learners singing in unison “Bangon Adlaw” by Ferdinand Aragon.

The celebration further highlighted Exemplary Learners, with Ms. Lomocso garnering the title at the Elementary level and Mr. Ranan, Ms. Taal, and Mr. Mejica at the High School level. Additionally, one student per level was recognized for their outstanding performances in the Learning Strands, which consists of English (Elem - Lomocso; JHS - Ranan), Filipino (Elem - Joe; JHS - Consolacion), Science (Elem - Lomocso; JHS - Taal), Mathematics (Elem - Calma; JHS - Ranan), Life and Career Skills (Elem - Joe; JHS - Mejica), Understanding the Self and the Society (Elem - Joe; JHS - Mejica), and Digital Literacy (Elem - Lomocso; JHS - Taal). Lastly, Special Awards were also granted: Fr. Pedro Arrupe, SJ Award - Ranan; Fr. William Masterson, SJ Award - Mejica; Fr. TG Hayes, SJ Award - Ranan; St. Pedro Calungsod Award - Lomocso; and St. Ignatius of Loyola, SJ Award - Ranan.

To close the program, a Message of Gratitude by the Top NSP Learner at the High School Level, Kevin Bjorn Ocangas, and a Closing Remarks given once again by Mr. Ismael B. Salarda took place, followed by a stirring Graduation Song performance, where “How Far We’ve Come” by Now United resonated throughout the venue. The event overall concluded with photo-taking and warm felicitations exchanged among all the learners and guests.

Congratulations to all XUNSP-ALS Batch 9 Graduates!

Report by Maxi Fajardo
Photo by Justine Paquit

On June 6, 2025, the Teachers’ Guild held the Educ Awards Night 2025 at Rich Manor Pension House to honor and celebrate ...
11/06/2025

On June 6, 2025, the Teachers’ Guild held the Educ Awards Night 2025 at Rich Manor Pension House to honor and celebrate the unwavering efforts and milestones of its core officers, co-curricular organizations, moderators, and working committees.

The event opened its doors at 5:00 PM, as one by one, the officers, members, and the faculty arrived at the venue clad in dazzling and elegant outfits. Faculty members such as Ms. Maria Paola Estacio, Dr. Kathleen Morales, and Mr. Albin Jay Tabamo, who is also known as the Council’s moderator, graced the venue with their presence. The program started at 6:00 PM with an invocation and the singing of the National Anthem, followed by an opening speech from the esteemed Project Head, Glenn Saligumba.

As the night went on, the project heads of every event initiated by the Teachers’ Guild were summoned to the podium to deliver their appreciation speeches to the crowd. Consequently, the awarding of the certificates and plaques for the major and minor awards took place right after. The working committees were called on stage to receive their hard-earned certificates, which were presented to them by TG’s President, Mr. Mar Laurence Calinawan, and Moderator, Mr. Albin Jay Tabamo.

The excitement carried on as the event proceeded with the awarding of the major awards. XU-SPEDSOC impressively secured both the Best Co-Curricular Org Project and Best Co-Curricular Organization awards, while the Department of Events and Management was honored as both the Most Active and Best Department. Individual accolades included Jay Mark Virtudazo for the Unsung Hero Award, Alyssa Semini as Best Munting Lapis Volunteer, Xyhrel Eldrich Orinay as Best Non-Officer Volunteer, and Joseph Juan as Best TG Volunteer. Ma. Cassandra Prudente earned both Excellence in Project Ex*****on and Best Project Head for the Seniors' Pinning Ceremony, with the Munting Lapis initiative, led by Josh Manuel Labial, winning Best Project. Neil Collins Velez received the Congeniality Award and the Lingkod Bayan Award, which he offered to Joseph Juan, stating that it was rightfully his. Ms. Vea Baconguis, the Teachers' Guild Vice President, was a major recipient, sweeping awards for Kuwang sa Tulog, Sobra sa Puso, Most Reliable Officer, Most Progressive Policy Proposal, Best Resolution, Best Bill, Outstanding Leadership, Best Attendance, and Best Core Officer. Lastly, Ms. Carly Faye Luna was celebrated as the Best Co-Curricular Moderator. Each honoree was allotted time to briefly deliver a speech of appreciation to their members and committees.

The most awaited moment arrived; dinner was served. Everyone lined up for the hearty and scrumptious food prepared for them. During dinner, the Special Recognition awardees for both the individual and group categories were also recognized with their medals and certificates. These are the exemplary individuals who continuously committed themselves and greatly impacted the success of every Teachers’ Guild event. Shortly after, the event proceeded with the Turnover Ceremony, wherein the outgoing and incoming Core Officers were called on stage. Current TG President and Vice President, Mr. Mar Laurence Calinawan and Ms. Vea Grace Baconguis, both gave words of advice to their successors, Mr. Justine Dave Paquit and Ms. Thea Riane Escrupulo.

“Seeing the success of the Educ Awards makes me feel accomplished and happy at the same time. I remember the first time Ate Vea offered me to be the Project Head, and I almost said no because, of course, I am still a first-year student with little to no knowledge about how these kinds of circumstances work. But throughout the process, we've experienced many eye-opening happenings and setbacks. Still, we've pushed through, and the once vision was made into reality. In the Ignatian Value of St. Ignatius of Loyola, Non-Multa Sed Multum. Although we may lack numbers in the School of Education Community, We are enough to conquer whatever challenges come. Overall, As the Project Head, It is my most incredible honor to have made my peers, seniors, and faculty delighted with Educ Awards 2025.” Glenn Saligumba, the project head said when asked about his feelings on the outcome and the event’s culmination.

The Educ Awards Night 2025 wrapped up with closing remarks from Mr. Mar Laurence Calinawan and Ms. Vea Grace Baconguis. Photos were taken before the School of Education community showed off their grooves in a lively Barn Dance. By all accounts, the event was a resounding success, effectively celebrating and recognizing the individuals who significantly contributed to the Council's achievements.

Report by Zoe Quibol
Layout by Seth Jangao


IN PHOTOS: "Usa Ka Adlaw", a heart-stirring musical theatre production by the learners of Xavier University Night School...
01/06/2025

IN PHOTOS: "Usa Ka Adlaw", a heart-stirring musical theatre production by the learners of Xavier University Night School Program–Alternative Learning System (XUNSP-ALS), took center stage on May 31, 2025, at the Xavier University Little Theatre. As the culminating performance for their Music, Art, and Culture class, the play brought to life real stories of the learners themselves, rooted in struggle, strength, and hope.

Told through a sequence of character-focused scenes, the play followed the lives of five individuals—each act unfolding a different journey. It began with Aldrin, a young boy, singing for survival in the streets. Then followed Bryan, a karinderya cook, who is confronted with the wounds of his past. Zahra, a teacher for orphans, battled personal and familial expectations. Lia turned to cosplay as a means of escape from her inner turmoil. Lastly, Amira, a dancer in a dimly lit bar, relived the shadows of a stolen childhood. What began as personal battles unfolded into a collective story of resilience, solidarity, and healing through this playscript.

After the curtain fell, co-playwright and XUNSP-ALS admin staff, Ms. Nathalie Grace B. Sta. Elena commended the cast and volunteers for their impressive performances. Engr. Ma. Leah Paola Estacio, a faculty member from the School of Education, expressed deep pride in the learners’ talents, saying she would be honored to have them as students. She also added her hopes to collaborate with Mr. Ismael B. Salarda on an even bigger production in the future.

The play was written and directed by Roy Ocampo (Y.R., Jr.), co-written by Nathalie Grace B. Sta. Elena, co-directed by Hestia Ehra Wabe, and brought to life through the musical direction of Emel Mejica, Sophia V. Taal, and others. It featured songs adapted from Ferdinand Aragon, like the heartfelt performance of “Bangon Adlaw,” song from the same artist. One of the most poignant moments of it came with the lyrics:

“Asa kaha ko dalhon
Ning akong mga pangandoy
Asa kaha ko luparon
Ning mga pako kong gikapoy
Bisan di ko maangkon karon
Naa ra ang ugma puhon puhon-puhon
Bangon adlaw buntag na
Andam na ko ganiha ra
Oh bag-ong adlaw na usab
Sa pagkab-ot sa mga damgo ko…”
—Ferdinand Aragon, Bangon Adlaw

Rooted in real-life experiences, Usa Ka Adlaw is more than a theatre play. It is a powerful declaration of healing, pagbangon, and the everyday courage to begin again.

We extend our warmest congratulations to the XUNSP-ALS learners and the entire production team for this successful theatre play!

Report by Jeasette Ragmac
Photo by Seth Jangao

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