𝗬𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗮/𝗔𝗺𝘂𝗱𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗴

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𝗬𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗮/𝗔𝗺𝘂𝗱𝘆𝗼𝗻𝗴

The Official Student Publication of the University of Saint Anthony - Junior High School Department

We, the editors and staff of Yraga, are committed to serving the students of the University of Saint Anthony to the best of our abilities, in recognition of the universal right of every student to be informed and freely express themselves. 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗮𝗱𝗮 𝗬𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗮!

02/06/2025

Greetings, Everyone!

Due to some access concerns with our previous page, we’ve decided to officially launch a brand new page for Yraga/Amudyong! 📣

This fresh start gives our incoming editors a chance to embrace a new look and stronger branding moving forward.

We kindly invite you to like, follow, and share our new page to stay updated on our latest posts, publications, and eannouncements. Every bit of support helps us grow and reach more readers within and to help us continue upholding impartial truth beyond words!

Here’s the link to our new page:
📌https://www.facebook.com/share/1Cv5S9ybtm/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Thank you for your understanding, support, and continued belief in student journalism. ❤️‍🔥

-Yraga/Amudyong 📝

30/05/2025

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗺 𝗔𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻
By: Pauleen M. Valeras

As autumn’s leaves and spring’s breeze
Greet the blooming flowers in summer’s ease
“Those blossoms will be visiting by then?”
I ask… must I welcome them once again?

They are remnants of my once broken peace
Elegance so calming, yet unravels my ease
The season they last bloomed, I was somewhere near doomed;
Still linger the feelings, all awe and gloom

“Why hold something against these delightful things?”
I say in pain and in vain: it stings, it clings.
Not in my fitfully weaving hands are the strings
That put things together, I trusted what life would bring

I burn, I melt, I vanish, as do candle wicks
And shatter into pieces by stones and sticks
And place, but break, then place own bricks
After all, the clock ticks, and time casts its tricks

Need not give in to hinder, healing is never linear
Decades may pass; hope we turn into silver
Conquer everything, though we think we might wither
As eventually, life will soon surge like a river

In the long run, all shall be done
Like flowers that bloom, the sun still shines on
Loss is but loss — it does not mean gone,
For renewal is endless; what ends is begun.

Artwork by: Rhieanhel F. Mirandilla

26/05/2025

𝗠𝗿. 𝗖𝘂𝗯𝗮, 𝗥𝗠𝗧 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗧𝗣, 𝗕𝗦𝗣, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗦𝗣 𝗧𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘆
By: Jan Ysmael V. Ciron

The University of Saint Anthony’s Citizenship Training Program, Boys Scout of the Philippines Outfit No. 72, Girls of the Philippines - USANT Chapter conducted their Turnover Ceremony last May 25, 2025.

Mr. Vladimir Gary E. Cuba, RMT shared his speech revolving around the theme “From Legacy to Living Memory, This is the Time, Together We Shine.” He reflected the theme of the event itself, that serving the community has left a legacy, and becoming a memory in their eyes has shined when passing the torch.

He shared the characteristics of a true Anthonian, like having grit for achievements and upholding the legacy. As a former Anthonian, he pointed out that strong passion and perseverance should always be fueled by power through inspirations.

According to Mr. Cuba, RMT, becoming dedicated is a factor of success, as he explained in his statement. “Ang pagiging desidido po natin ay importante dahil ito ay isa sa siguradong batayan ng success o tagumpay.” He showed that every success has a dedicated mind behind it, and he used the turnover ceremony as an example.

As he concluded his speech, he recognized the legacy the outgoing officers are leaving, and it’s their name that lives in the memory of the light they shone. He congratulated the outgoing officers and wished the best of luck to the new minds that will continue to lead and live upon the legacy.

26/05/2025

𝗨𝗦𝗔𝗡𝗧 𝗖𝗧𝗣, 𝗚𝗦𝗣, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗕𝗦𝗣 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗘𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗲𝗿𝗺 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗧𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘆
By: Jaden Zachary N. Bante

A strong sense of purpose and renewed leadership filled the University of Saint Anthony Forum, as the Citizenship Training Program (CTP), Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) - USANT Chapter, the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) Outfit no. 72 - USANT Chapter held their turnover and completion ceremony last May 24, 2025.

The event began with a solemn procession of the candidates for completion, accompanied by their parents, guests, and faculty members. After an invocation, selected CTP officers proudly carried the colors, followed by the singing of the national anthem.

SSCT Jihoo D. Matucad led the Pledge of Allegiance. This was followed by SSCT Fiel Timothy L. Cariño guiding the Scout Oath and Law, and SSCT Kurt Chester I. Tan reciting the Senior Scout Code. Representing the GSP, Sr. GS Emilia Gabrielle G. Fraginal led the Girl Scout Promise, while Sr. GS Krizza Shyne E. Pineda led the Girl Scout Law.

Awards were then presented by Dr. Francia T. Buffe, Junior High School Principal, with the help of the awardees’ parents and the facilitators and coordinators of CTP, GSP, and BSP.

One of the ceremony’s most meaningful moments was the formal turnover of command, as CDT Carl Matthew N. Ablan, outgoing CTP Troop Commander, SSCT Zi Xian G. Wong, outgoing BSP Grand Senior Crew Leader, and Sr. GS Hannah Margareth T. Andalis, outgoing GSP Chairman, officially stepped down from their posts.

CDTTE Aiesha Danielle G. Navales 2CL then read the assumption of command, along with the incoming BSP Grand Senior Crew Leader and GSP Chairman.

The ceremony continued with the completion rites. Candidates were presented by SCTR Roy C. Saberdo of 2BH, BSP Coordinator, along with GSP Coordinators SCTR Amor Francy M. Daisy and SCTR Shekinah Faith A. Borac, and CTP Facilitator Mr. Jonathan P. Huerno.

Afterwards, Dr. Jose B. Ballesteros, Vice President for Academic Affairs, formally confirmed the candidates for completion.

CDTTE Ella Jane C. Tabayag 1CL, outgoing Troop S5/Plans and Programs Officer, then introduced the guest honor and speaker Mr. Vladimir Gary F. Cuba, RMT. His inspiring message left a lasting impression on the scouts and aspirants. He was subsequently presented with a plaque of appreciation.

Moments later, Dr. Ballesteros addressed the outgoing and incoming officers as well as the new completers with an encouraging message.

To close the program, Dr. Buffe shared her final remarks. The ceremony ended with everyone joining in the mass singing of the USANT Hymn, followed by a recessional that marked a meaningful end to not only a term but a journey of growth, service, and leadership.

Photos by:
Pauleen M. Valeras, Head Layout Artist
Nikki Yumi Hashimoto, Photojournalism Staff
Vina P. Oida, Photojournalism Staff

Edited by:
Pauleen M. Valeras, Head Layout Artist

24/05/2025

𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗿. 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗿𝗮𝘀 𝗝𝗿. 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲𝘀 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗮𝗱𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱
By: Jan Ysmael Ciron

The Recognition Program commences last May 23, 2025 with Engr. Martin D. Valeras Jr. as the guest speaker, who shared his experiences with his past high school life and advice to the newly awarded students from grade 7 to 9.

His speech was graced with his life in high school where he wasn't a part of the star section and yet he was contested and chosen to represent the school in various competitions. He shared that every opportunity doesn't always come but it's important to keep grabbing more.

He then highlighted "There is something inside of you that is greater than any obstacle". He stated that even little things that we need to learn like household chores have an award waiting for us.

He then recognized the world as a competitive place and that everything counts in large amounts with his metaphor of "The grabbing hand grabbing all they can".

Lastly, he concluded his speech with the advice of doing good. "Do not sleep at night without doing something productive each day" as he further explains why doing good and doing it right is essential for the future. As future leaders and decision makers, he stated that the world needs us.

24/05/2025

𝗨𝗦𝗔𝗡𝗧 𝗝𝗛𝗦 𝗛𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗔𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝘆 𝗖𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗻𝘆
By: Daemien Arkin S. Batacan

The University of Saint Anthony (USANT) Junior High School recently held its much-anticipated Recognition Program with the theme, “The Journey of Excellence: Celebrating Academic Milestones and Achievements of Diverse 21st Century Learners" on May 23, 2025, held at the USANT Forum. The program highlighted the school’s commitment to honoring the hard work, perseverance, and academic success of its learners. The event showcased the achievements of students who excelled in academics, leadership, and other areas of school life.

The program opened with an invocation and the Philippine National Anthem, both presented through an AVP, followed by opening remarks from the Assistant Principal, Mrs. Neonita F. Marpuri. Mrs. Junissa DR. Segui, the Grade 8 Division Chairperson, introduced the guest speaker, Engr. Martin D. Valeras Jr., a proud alumnus and current Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture at Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges (CSPC). He inspired students with his message of dedication and lifelong learning. Dr. Jose B. Ballesteros, the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), and Dr. Francia T. Buffe, the Junior High School Principal, awarded the certificate of recognition to the guest speaker. A musical intermission was performed by Elaiah S. Iblan, from Grade 8 - Bougainvillea.

One of the program’s highlights was the awarding of certificates and medals to deserving students, led by Dr. Ballesteros, Dr. Buffe, and the respective class advisers. A second intermission followed, featuring a performance by Mr. John Chris B. Gregana, a Grade 8 Mathematics teacher. The event concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Buffe and the singing of the University Hymn. The program was skillfully hosted by Mr. Bobby V. Nacario Jr. and Ms. Shekinah Faith A. Borac, ensuring a smooth and memorable celebration of student success.

Photos by:
Pauleen M. Valeras, Head Layout Artist
Jan Ysmael V. Ciron, Associate Editor

Edited by:
Pauleen M. Valeras, Head Layout Artist

23/05/2025

𝗡𝗢𝗪 𝗛𝗔𝗣𝗣𝗘𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚: 2025 Recognition Program Forum

21/05/2025

The Yraga/Amudyong Student Publication would like to extend a best birthday greetings to one of its Assistant Sports Editor, Laiza May A. Ibarreta! 🏀✨

Your energy always bring life to every article you write, your passion shines through in all you do. You have a unique way of turning every play into a story worth remembering.

Hope your day is filled with excitement and fun, just like the energy you always bring to the editorial board. Happy Birthday, Laiza! 🥳

Wishing you all the best,
Yraga/Amudyong 📝

12/05/2025

𝗢𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗶𝗽 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲
By: Alfred Jhon Liquen

We are taught from childhood that our vote is our voice, yet too often than not that voice echoes only against walls of privilege and tradition. In communities, we repeat the mantra of suffrage as if it were somewhat of a tool for injustice, unaware that the system into which we cast our votes was catered to perpetuate power instead of changing it. Promises dissolve like salt, and the same names rise again, untouched by scrutiny, void of any consequence.

This ritual of democracy demands our participation even as it offers us scraps of relief in a place that needs reform. We line up, scorched beneath the relentless sun, to cast your vote on a fragile paper, believing that this small act can undermine oppression. Yet power slips through the folds of our ballots and finds refuge in dynasties, patronage, and ritualized charity, that in the end masks the absence of accountability.

Though voting isn't the end of our civic resolve. It's only the threshold of a broader struggle to secure the rights that give our ballots meaning. To safeguard these rights, we must be transparent, take our time to find track records of the names within the ballots, and protect ourselves against coercion and manipulation. Our ballots become our voice for change when cast with the right knowledge of the issues at stake and with a commitment to the principles of representation.

The essence of suffrage lies in its universality, that every citizen must be able to cast a ballot freely and confidently. We strengthen that universality by challenging oppression, to deny selling our votes, and to go against those who impose unnecessary burdens on marginalized groups. In doing so, we honor those who struggled for the franchise and extend the promise of democracy to those still denied its benefits.

Change begins within each and every one of us in the moments when we choose principle over convenience. Let us vote wisely with both heart and mind, not just for ourselves but for the generations yet to come. Let our votes stand as the tool for change, because in that resolve, we discover the true power of democracy.

At the end of the day, for as long as the candidate aligns with one's principles, they have your vote. In a nation in which truth is mostly drowned out, voting becomes an act of defiance, a reflection of values instead of allegiance. And if we walk home with peace in knowing we chose with both heart and reason, then that is enough. Because even in a flawed system, a vote cast with clarity is a step for something better.

Artwork by: Rhieanhel Mirandilla

11/05/2025

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜𝗹𝗹𝘂𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗟𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀
By: Allana Gabarda

Today, the world celebrates a figure, a symbol of unwavering love, who shapes our lives and provides us with constant support—mothers. Let us honor each and every mother in the world who gave their all for their children to have good and meaningful lives. Let us take this opportunity to celebrate and appreciate their sacrifices and efforts that withstand even the strongest storms in life. Them, who in the middle of the darkness, have become our safe space, solace, and light—the purest form of love.

Motherhood, they say, is an honor bestowed upon women. It is both a responsibility and a privilege. However, it is not a piece of cake, it is not pure sweetness. Mothers often encounter a lot of obstacles in raising children that sometimes even leads to a point where they question their worth as a mother. This is why it is important to always express appreciation and gratitude towards our mothers, the individuals whose strength equals superheroes in shows, for them to be validated and see their true worth.

Remember, that a mother can be a stepmother, grandmother, adoptive mother, single mother, and other mother figures who chose to stand up and fight for their children. All mothers have different stories but have the same purpose that connects them to each other—to love and care for their family. This day is a reminder of their strength in the face of hard times for our sake and pure love just for us.

Mothers are called the first teachers of their children. The moment their child goes into the world, they become their best friend, their teacher, and their ultimate guide. They are the ones who put us first in everything, who showers us with support, and who pours us with so much love. It is true that a mother’s love is unconditional, pure, and irreplaceable. It is the love that introduced us to this world and the one that is continuously fighting for us—the love that should be cherished and appreciated.

Mothers are like a warm cup of coffee on a rainy day—it soothes, comforts, and warmths us. Their comforting words and hugs are kisses to our souls, the force that inspires us to continue. They are the life and joy of our homes. Today, let us not forget to commemorate the sacrifices of our mothers in guiding us as well as their efforts in giving us the best that they can offer. Our mothers play significant roles in our lives, they are our source of strength, our happiness, the glue that binds our families together, and the light that illuminates even the darkest parts of our lives.

Artwork by: Nyah Taduran

04/05/2025

𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗰𝗲, 𝗚𝗿𝗶𝘁, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗚𝗹𝗼𝗿𝘆
By: Nyah Taduran

A volleyball varsity player, a majorette leader, a USANT alumna who graduated with Academic Distinction in AB Psychology in the College of Liberal Arts last 2023—Shaina Ong Rabacal has truly earned a name for being a "jack of all trades." Now, she's a beauty queen advocating for causes close to her heart. Fast forward to present time, Rabacal gives pride to Camarines Sur in the Miss Universe 2025 Preliminaries and National Costume Showcase as she represents the province just last Monday and Thursday.

Miss Shaina starts strong in the Preliminaries as she strides down the runway elegantly in her lavender swimwear. Her striking confidence and charming smile set the tone for her next performances.

Rabacal then reappears rocking the Regina Verde, a stunning evening gown designed by Kelvin Fiel Sumalabe. The dress is in olive green, a color associated with peace and prosperity. Rabacal chose this color specifically to match her vigorous and righteous persona.

But it doesn’t end there—the true highlight of the week was the showcasing of national costumes, where each contestant represented the culture and traditions of their respective provinces. Rabacal channelled the haunting beauty of the Magindara—the guardian deity of Camarines Sur’s fishermen. She lured the audience in with her vibrant scales and enchanting charisma just as the magindara would with fishermen at sea, making the two a perfect match.

As she advances to the coronation night, Rabacal’s passion continues to burn brightly, setting a spark in the hearts of many. With her grace and grit, she sets the example that you don’t need to be weak to be a blooming flower. You can still stand strong, independent, and pure, even amidst a tainted environment.

Loud and proud! Thank you for representing CAMARINES SUR 💖

Photo Courtesy:
Shaina Rabacal
Miss Universe Philippines FB Page

Pubmat by: Zildjian Martinez

03/05/2025

𝗨𝗽𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗶𝗻 𝗮 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝘂𝗿𝗺𝗼𝗶𝗹
By: Yulian S. Solis

Each year on May 3rd, the world comes together to commemorate World Press Freedom Day—a day that transcends celebration and stands as a bold reminder of the importance of a free, independent, and responsible press. In a time marked by disinformation, rising authoritarianism, and growing attacks on media workers, this day is not only timely—it is essential.

A free press is the lifeblood of democracy. It informs the public, holds power to account, uncovers injustices, and amplifies the voices of the marginalized. Without it, citizens are left in the dark, manipulated by half-truths and silenced by fear. Freedom of the press is not just about the rights of journalists—it is about the right of every citizen to know the truth.

Yet, around the globe, this right is under siege. According to data from organizations like Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists, dozens of journalists are killed annually for doing their jobs. Many more face imprisonment, harassment, threats, and censorship. In some countries, entire news outlets are shut down or taken over by governments. The rise of digital surveillance and targeted disinformation campaigns has only made things worse.

This year’s theme, “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis,” shines a spotlight on another urgent matter—climate change and environmental destruction. Journalists play a key role in uncovering illegal logging, mining abuses, corporate pollution, and government negligence. Yet, environmental reporting is one of the most dangerous beats in journalism, especially in regions where powerful interests seek to keep the truth buried.

In the Philippines, press freedom remains a contested space. Journalists who investigate corruption or criticize those in power often find themselves targeted with lawsuits, red-tagging, online harassment, or even violence. The shutdown of ABS-CBN’s free TV operations in 2020, widely criticized as politically motivated, was a stark reminder of how fragile media freedom can be—even in a democracy. Meanwhile, independent media outlets and community journalists face financial pressures and security risks just to keep reporting.

But even in darkness, there is resistance. Across the country and the world, journalists continue to report the truth, often at great personal cost. Whistleblowers, student publications, citizen reporters, and digital platforms are rising to challenge misinformation and empower communities.

As readers and citizens, we also carry a responsibility. We must support credible journalism, question what we read, reject fake news, and demand transparency from those in power. We must also teach media literacy in schools and foster a culture that values truth over popularity and facts over clickbait.

World Press Freedom Day is not merely symbolic—it is a call to action. It reminds us that press freedom is not guaranteed. It must be fought for, defended, and nurtured every single day. Let us honor the journalists who risk their lives to inform us. Let us support the institutions that commit to truth and integrity. And let us remember that without a free press, democracy cannot survive.

In the words of UNESCO, “If we do not protect freedom of expression, we will not protect any other human right.” This May 3rd, and every day after, may we stand united in defending the voice of the press—and the voice of the people.

Sources:
https://www.un.org/en/observances/press-freedom-day
https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20250430IPR28178/world-press-freedom-day-3-may-defending-media-freedom-to-safeguard-democracy

Pubmat by: Zildjian Martinez

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It is the right of all students to be informed and to express themselves. Yraga is a student publication that strives to be a beacon of pristine campus journalism, dedicated to serving the students of the University of Saint Anthony, in recognition of the role of the youth in shaping the community. We adhere to the principle that everyone has a role to play in our society, no matter how small it may seem. We, the editors and staff of this publication founded on the trust of the students, answer the call for dynamic change in the community, and in the country.

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