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The Forum (Official), Maragondon (2025)

22/06/2025

𝗘𝗗𝗜𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬𝗔𝗟 | Para sa Serbisyo o Pabango Lamang?

Sa katatapos lang na eleksyon na naganap sa Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Maragondon Campus (PUP-MC), nahalal ang mga bagong lider-estudyante na siyang hahawak ng responsibilidad sa kani-kanilang organisasyon. Sa pagbubukas ng panibagong kabanata, hindi lang posisyon ang natamo, kundi isang hamon na dapat pag-isipan at seryosohin.

Hindi na bago sa atin ang mga lider na tumakbo lang para sa popularidad o dagdag sa kanilang credentials. Ang mga animo'y nasa posisyon pero hindi mo maramdaman ang presensya. Nariyan tuwing may pictorial, aktibo sa social media, ngunit tahimik kapag may maingay na isyu. Isang malaking kasayangan sa boto ng mga estudyanteng umaasang may mangyayaring pagbabago.

Sa kabilang banda, may mga iilang lider na hindi man kilala o sikat, pero buo ang loob na magsilbi. Sila itong mga handang tumayo kahit nag-iisa, magsalita kahit taliwas sa nakasanayan, at gumawa ng desisyon na hindi palaging naayon sa karamihan pero makabuluhan. Hindi sila takot sa kontrobersiya, dahil para sa kanila, bahagi ito ng responsibilidad na ipinagkatiwala sa kanila.

Madali ang manahimik. Madali ang sumunod lang sa agos. Pero ang tunay na lider ay yung handang manindigan kahit mag-isa, at handang ipaglaban ang tama kahit ang kapalit ay batikos. Hindi ito madaling landas, pero ito ang makabuluhang daan.

Ngayon pa lang, simulan mo nang linawin sa sarili mo kung bakit ka tumakbo. Huwag mong sayangin ang tiwala ng mga estudyanteng bumoto sa’yo. Hindi nila kailangan ng perpektong lider, ang kailangan nila ay isang tunay, tapat, at matapang na tagapagsilbi.

Sa huli, ang tunay na lider ay hindi sinusukat sa dami ng likes, sa ganda ng resume, o sa dami ng events na nadaluhan. Sinusukat ito sa kung paano mo pinaglaban ang kapakanan ng mga estudyante, kahit na ikaw na lang ang natitirang lumalaban.

Kung ikaw ay isa sa mga bagong halal, panahon na para suriin mo ang sarili mo. Huwag mong hayaang matapos ang termino mo na ang bakas lang na maiiwan ay kasikatan, ngunit kapos sa totoong ambag para sa mga estudyante. Ang tanong ngayon: tumakbo ka ba para magserbisyo o para pabanguhin lang ang pangalan mo?

Ni Kurt Patrick S. Dinglas
Dibuho ni Kristina Erich Loquete

20/06/2025

𝐅𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄 | 𝐀 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐩𝐩𝐞𝐫’𝐬 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧: 𝐒𝐚𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐚’𝐬 𝐒𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐋𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐨𝐮𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐝 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐞𝐧

“Accept who you are today, be proud of it, and always create a space for those people who matter."-𝐑𝐞𝐧𝐳𝐨 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐑. 𝐒𝐚𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐚.

Bold fashion choices, confidence in every step, and elegance like a queen—without a doubt, Renzo Mark R. Sacala, a second-year student taking Bachelor of Secondary Education-Major in English at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines–Maragondon Campus (PUP-MC), is impossible to ignore. It’s not just because of how she gracefully expresses herself by dressing up, but because of how she carries herself amidst the crowd. Every head turned comes with a question—what’s the story behind this striking soul?

When asked what object best represents her this Pride Month, Renzo didn’t hesitate to state that she would be a crown. “I would humbly be a crown. A crown, because I’m a winner, not for being a Drag Queen or something, but because of life, because of growth, and I take big pride in it.” For her, the crown isn’t about a thing that you can get in pageantry; it’s about how she truly became a winner because of her life, growth, and the pride she holds. She realized that embracing new experiences and challenging herself not only set her apart but also defined her as a true winner in life.

Since she was a child, Renzo had already been aware of her true identity. For her, it is a privilege that she already knew her true colors at a young age and was able to receive acceptance from her family and friends. Cherishing that moment because she's aware that many of us are still confused and afraid to show our true identity, Renzo shared her two cents about accepting ourselves.

“Don’t be afraid to show who you are, there might be people who will not accept it, will not support you at all, and that’s fine, you must keep and cherish those people who accepted all of you, without questions, without second thoughts.” she conveyed.

But like any queen’s reign, Renzo’s story has no thrill without its battles. With that untamed presence, she cannot escape the reality that some will make others suffer for what they struggle to overcome. Constant bullying made her abandon her true self, suppressing everything she proudly lives on only because of her surroundings full of judgment and underestimation, confused about what identity she will show just to fit in with the standards forced by the society. For a time, she pretended to be someone else—someone quieter, more acceptable to others.

With the help of her friends, family, and those who truly appreciate and accept her, she became a living diva unaffected by others' opinions. Reminiscing that time, she shares that with a lot of self-reflection and love, she became someone who felt like her true self, where her soul felt comfortable and at peace. She embraced her full identity, radiating confidence, pride, and love.

But like a queen, she ignored the negativity and didn't give a single ounce of attention. After all, bearing the crown of her pride shaped her strong mindset. “They can judge all they want because, at the end of the day, they don't get to dictate how I should live. It's my life, and I will live it in full color and pride,” she stated.

That transformation became even more visible when Renzo won the Drag Race Queen 2024 in PUP-MC. Winning this title is like a written fate laid out for her. Her willingness to compete and unwavering confidence in her talent captivated the audience at that event.

“And I felt like it was always a goal of mine to step out of my comfort zone and try new things, that's why I had the willingness in me from the start,” she said, inspiring everyone to take risks even when faced with countless “what ifs,” to seize every opportunity and don’t let any chances slip away.

As someone who stepped into the spotlight with purpose, Renzo hopes the next queen will do the same — not with pride alone, but with purpose and passion. Her advice is simple, ”For the next queen, just be humble and be kind. Don't take the crown as an authority, take the crown as a responsibility, a responsibility to serve (literally) to use that title to lead and empower our fellow LGBTQIA+ members. Let's not compete against each other, let's not pull each other down. Instead, become one and united, let's give our attitude and energy to fight the struggles and battles that we go through as a community. Let's foster a strong community here on our campus, with strong advocacies and with a strong mission.”

As a queen herself, fitting in is not the right thing. After all, a queen is always meant to stand out, holding herself with elegance, loving herself with confidence.

“Loving yourself would be the best thing to give yourself in order to battle these things. Knowing yourself more, learning who you truly are, is the best clue in finding your true purpose and identity in life," Renzo expressed.

As a representative of the LGBTQIA+ community, she wants to kindle a flame of inspiration among the youth, especially within the vibrant PUP-MC community. Renzo's journey serves as a powerful reminder that embracing our true selves is not just about confidence, pride, and lighting the way for others. It’s a celebration of authenticity that encourages everyone to shine brightly, reminding us that, together, we can create a dazzling crown of inspiration and belonging.

Happy Pride Month, Isko and Iska!!

By Kyla Ann Somes
Photo by Chelsea Ives
Layout by Gian Keila Ferrer

18/06/2025

𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | PUP Places 3rd in GHF Research Universities in the Philippines

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) has achieved another significant academic milestone as it secures the Top 3 spot among 27 research universities in the country with the highest number of research papers published in Scopus, as reported by the Global Health Focus (GHF).

As of mid-2025, PUP has successfully produced 53 Scopus-indexed research papers—solidifying its reputation as a leading research institution in the Philippines. This achievement reflects the university’s commitment to promoting academic excellence and impactful research outputs.

The surge in research productivity is largely credited to Board of Regents-approved policies on faculty development, including enhanced support for research production, presentation, and publication. Increased publication incentives, expanded research assistance, and merit-based promotion through research have also contributed to this success.

Crucially, the strategic leadership of the Office of the Vice President for Research, Extension, and Development (OVPRED) has played a pivotal role in fostering a supportive research environment for both faculty and administrative personnel.

This progress aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

With this recognition, PUP is now halfway toward its ambitious target of 100 Scopus-indexed publications by the end of 2025.

Congratulations to the entire PUP community—especially its dedicated faculty and administrative staff—for this outstanding accomplishment!

By Nichole Emmanuelle Barcelona
Photo from PUP Official Webpage
Layout by Early Ann Anglo

18/06/2025

𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | PUP Maragondon celebrates Pride and Sensibility: Mental Health and Pride Month 2025

MARAGONDON, Cavite - With the theme "Beklaban: Tumindig Para sa Karapatan ng Bawat Kasarian," Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Maragondon Campus commemorated Pride Month and Mental Health Awareness with the event "Color Me Proud, It's Pride Q'Clock" fusing gender awareness, mental health education, and cultural history into one transformative event which took place last June 13, 2025 at PUP-MC Gymnasium.

Starting the festivities, students on the university grounds cheered as they filled the gymnasium waving their flags creating an inclusive atmosphere and support to the members of LGBTQIA+ community.

The program opened with a statement of purpose from Inst. Rustan Talicol, who emphasized that pride is not just a celebration of colorful parades—it is a call for visibility, courage, and the recognition of every person's worth.

"Tayo ay nagsusumikap hindi lang para makita, kundi para marabilang. Ang Pride ay para sa lahat, lala na sa estudyanteng walang malapitan," said Inst. Talicol.

Assoc. Prof. Jimmy Panganiban, Head, Administrative Office/Property Custodian, delivered a heartfelt message inspiring the audience and introducing the first guest speaker Dr. Quintin L. Subeng IV, a mental health advocate and professional who discussed Mental Health Act, stress management, identifying early signs of mental health struggles, emotional regulation, and the "4Ds" of psychological concern: Distress Dysfunction, Deviance, and Danger highlighting that taking care of emotional being is just as important as physical health.

"The greatest waste of energy is wasting your own potential," said Dr. Quintin, reminding students that their academic performance does not define their worth and encouraged seeking support through friends or mental health professionals.

The session covered practical stress relief tips, such as avoiding junk food, taking short power naps, and seeking professional help when needed.

Dr. Quintin also emphasized the need for emotional openness, affirming that support and presence can be therapeutic for struggling individuals.

"Your presence is already healing for someone who can't express their emotions," he noted.

Students asked about common struggles like mental blocks and emotional sharing, and Dr. Quintin responded by emphasizing self-awareness, affirmation, and the power of presence in healing.

The program continued with Student Services Head Engr. Rico Balderama introducing the second resource speaker, Mx. Raja Lynn Bausing, who provided an interactive talk about q***r history, cultural identity, and the natural presence of gender fluidity promoting valuable knowledge and shedding light upon the LGBTQIA+ issues.

"Ang kasarian ay parang tubig-it takes the shape of its container. Even in nature, animals can change s*x based on their environment," she explained.

Mx. Bausing discussed pre-colonial acceptance of diverse identities, referencing babaylans, transgender leaders like Tamblet, and the revolutionary roles of Trinidad Tecson and Teresa Magbanua, showing that gender diversity has long existed in our culture and struggles for freedom.

Followed by an engaging discussion on the rich history of the LGBTQIA+ community in the Philippines, highlighting the cultural roots of gender diversity and shedding light on the beginnings of LGBTQIA+ activism in the country, including the landmark event of the first Philippine Pride March held in 1994.

She shared statistics on discrimination, including job denials, benefit restrictions, and dress code enforcement, alongside real cases like Bunny Cadag and Gretchen Diez.

"Nakakalungkot na kailangan mong baguhin ang Ragkata, me para lang magka-trabaho," Mx. Bausing said, calling for equal rights in both employment and education.

Her message emphasized that gender expression should never be a barrier to opportunity, and that liberation is incomplete without LGBTQIA+ freedom.

The event concluded with "WERK IT! PUP-MC Performance 2025" from student artists and groups such as GForce ng ATS, Khoreophile Dance Artists (KDA), JXO YUAN, Darnnah (DIT 2-1), Wild Card (BSBA FM 1-1), Celestial Queens, Tres-Chicass, and the RevelAces (BSBA HRM 2-1) celebrating identity through art, music, and movement.

PUP-MC's Pride 2025 celebration served not only as a colorful tribute to gender diversity but as a united call for recognition, rights, and respect across all identities.

"No Pride for some of us without Liberation for all of us," - Marsha P. Johnson, a pioneering transgender activist and prominent leader in the Stonewall movement, emphasizing the importance of unity, justice, and full equality for all, not just for the most visible or accepted members of the LGBTQ+ community.

by Nichole Emmanuelle Barcelona and Priam Magante
Photos by Gian Keila Ferrer
Layout by Early Ann Anglo

18/06/2025

LITERARY | SIERRA MADRE: Lupa ng Kabuhayan

Isang layunin. Kung mayroon akong layunin, ano ito? Paano naman ang tungkulin sa isang layunin?... Halos hindi ko malaman kung mahalaga pa ba ako. Kung maari lamang ako makapagsalita. Hahanapin niyo ba ang aking panawagan? Ibinigay ko ang lahat ng aking lupa upang kayo'y makapagpalawak, ang aking tubig upang ang inyong sibilisasyon ay lumago, pati na rin ang aking hangin at mga buhay na nananahan sa akin na pinaubaya ng maykapal sa langit. Inabuso nang walang pag-iingat na nagdudulot ng pagkalito sa inyong isipan, na naging parang bato sa paggawa ng mga desisyon na hindi makatuwiran. Ako, na ipinagmamalaking tagapagbantay ng silangang baybayin ng Luzon, ay hindi nangahas na saktan kayo at makialam sa inyong mga gawain sapagkat ako'y mapagpasensya, habang pinapaalalahanan ko ang aking sarili na ang aking tungkulin bilang isang “Sierra” ay protektahan ang lahat ng sangkatauhan sa bansang pinalilibutan nito.

Ako ang pinakamatandang hanay ng bundok sa bansa, na kung tutuusi’y mas matanda pa kaysa sa bansang ito. Ang aking kasaysayang umaabot sa malalayong distansya sa nakalipas nang mga siglo. Habang unti-unting naglalaho at namamatay tulad ng alitaptap sa kalangitan ng gitnang gabi dahil sa isang tiyak na kasakiman, narito ako, nakahiga sa kawalang-paniwala. Patuloy na pinapanood kayong ubusin ang lahat mula sa akin, na para bang ang mga sugat na ibinigay ay patuloy na maghihilom kasabay ng mga araw na lumilipas. At batid kong ang aking ganda’y unti-unti ring kumukupas. Naiisip niyo ba? Ang matinding mga kahihinatnan ng inyong dinala sa inyong uri? Naiisip niyo na ba na baka lumampas na ang sangkatauhan sa hangganan nito sa usapin ng moralidad? Ganyan ang isang sumpa na inyong minana mula sa inyong mga ninuno. Isang uri ng kasuklam-suklam na pag-uugali sa harap ng mga biyaya, inaabuso ninyo ang mga bagay na akala ninyo ay karapat-dapat kayo sa lahat ng inyong nahahawakan at nakikita. Paano kung isang araw bigla akong gumuho? Ano ang gagawin n’yo?! Umiyak, tumakas, magsisisi o mawalan ng pag-asa?… Ako'y nagdurugo, ako'y nagdurugo rin, tuwing ang mga ngipin na bakal ay sumisisid sa aking laman, ang mga makina’y sumasaklaw sa aking mga puno, sementong ibinubuhos sa aking mga buto at mga kalsadang nagbubukas ng mga ugat na hindi pa natatapakan.
Tinatawag niyo itong progreso? tinatawag niyo itong kaunlaran? Hindi ba’t mas nagmu-mukhang pagdiriwang ito ng pagdurusa ng nilikha? Ang isang Sierra Madre na katulad ko ay hindi humihiyaw. Sapagkat ako'y mapagpasensya. Naalala ko ang bawat ugat, bawat bagyong aking nilunok, ang sakim na pagnanasa ng mga alon na lamunin ang lahat mula sa karagatan, upang makapag-pahinga ang nasa kapatagan. Ang aking mga lambak ay sumasalo sa galit ng mga bagyo, pinapahina ang hampas para sa mga lungsod na hindi na alam ang aking pangalan.

Ngunit ako'y nanghihina na. Ang mga gubat ko'y humihina na rin tulad ng malutong na buhok. Ang mga ilog ko'y nalulunod sa putik at lason. Ang aking katahimikan ay nagiging babala. Sa kabilang banda, may iilan pa ring nakakaalala ng aking mga sakripisyo. Mga batang umaakyat sa aking balikat upang maabot ang mga ulap, mga matatandang nagkukuwento na tila isa akong pantasiya na tanging mababasa lamang sa mga libro, mga aktibista, siyentipiko, at mga katutubo na magkahawak-kamay, lahat ay may katapatan na puno ng protesta at panalangin… Gaano ko pinapangarap na makita ang araw na lahat ng tao ay inaaruga ang mga biyayang ibinigay ng Diyos sa kanila, ang paglikha ng isang katalista ng pagbabago habang nagkakaisa silang nag-uugnay, kung saan nagsusulat sila ng mga awit at petisyon, hindi upang angkinin ako, kundi upang alagaan bilang isa sa kanila, pinapaalala sa akin ang mga panahong talagang kabilang ako sa mundong ito, na ako ay buhay—at ang Tagapangalaga na nagtataboy sa mga sakuna palayo. Isa lamang ang hinihiling ko sa inyo, wala akong kailangan na mga monumento, hindi ko kailangan na sakupin at purihin. Ang tanging hinihiling ko sa inyo ay alagaan ang lahat ng inyong natatanggap mula sa lupain na ito mula sa Dakilang Arkitekto ng Mundo… At tulungan ninyo akong maging buo muli, tulad ng dati sa pagitan ng mga bagyo at mga natutulog na lungsod.

Ni Jacob Jermi Pereña
Dibuho ni Shaina Gabriel Villanueva

15/06/2025

IN PHOTOS | PUPMC Pride Month 2025

Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Maragondon Campus celebrates pride month with 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗿 𝗠𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗱: 𝗜𝘁’𝘀 𝗣𝗿𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗢’𝗖𝗹𝗼𝗰𝗸! event, bannering the theme “𝗕𝗘𝗞𝗟𝗔𝗯𝗮𝗻: 𝗧𝘂𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗴 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗮 𝘀𝗮 𝗞𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗽𝗮𝘁𝗮𝗻 𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘁 𝗞𝗮𝘀𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻” last June 13, 2025 at PUPMC Gymnasium.

Photos by Gian Keila Ferrer

15/06/2025

𝗙𝗘𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗥𝗘 | Just One You Admire: The Man Who Majored in Fatherhood

Every great establishment requires a solid foundation—one that can weather challenges, support growth, and inspire strength.

From a very young age, a simple student named Eric Apolona Joya—known as 'Sir Joya'—dreamed of becoming a teacher. Now, at 57, with 31 years of teaching at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Maragondon Campus (PUP-MC), Sir Joya looks back on his own professors, who served as his earliest role models and foundation.

"Malaking factor talaga sa 'kin ang mga dati kong unang Prof. dito sa PUP, sina Mam Carol Panganiban at si Sir Mar Panganiban kasi pinakita nila sa akin ang pagiging responsableng Prof. at parent sa kanilang mga anak," Sir Joya stated.

He now serves as an establishment for others; it was those educators who initially laid the framework, developing not only his passion in teaching but also the qualities that would later characterize him as a dedicated father and mentor.

Loving, kind, thoughtful, concerned, and willing to help selflessly, that is how Sir Joya describes himself as a father, not just to his two children but also to the students he treated like his own, inspiring them to strive hard in life.

"Kino-consider kasi ako ng aking mga estudyante bilang kanilang tatay kaya most of the time talaga ay need kong mag share ng mga experiences as a father para ma inspire sila," Sir Joya shared.

He also strives to instill core values in his students, which reflect his personal belief, "Love what you are doing. Life just comes once in our lifetime so enjoy it to the fullest," he added.

Sir Joya's journey is the living proof that every establishment faces its own set of challenges. Balancing the demands of his work and the unexpected issues at home tested his resilience. Yet, through it all, he found strength not in the absence of adversity, but in his faith and trust in the Lord and he shared that goodness with his students.

"Madalas karamihan sa 'min nawawalan ng time kay Lord pero si Sir walang single time na hindi nya kami na remind about God. He's always sending us about God's words kaya naman gumising kami na si Lord ang bungad at gabay namin. Si Sir Joya ang naging tulay upang magpatuloy sa araw namin kasama si Lord. Talagang tunay na ipinadalang ama ni Lord si Sir Joya through his words, reminders, and guidance," shared Azzi Abutin, a third-year BSE student.

Students' hunger to learn drives him to maintain a strong commitment to education and to inspire his daughter to follow in his footsteps as an educator.

"Kapag nagtuturo ako nakikita ko sa mga students ‘yung hunger nila para matuto at iyun ang nag drive sa akin para magkaroon ng commitment sa education and dahil dito it influenced my daughter to be the same as me," he conveyed.

A simple yet meaningful description from his daughter, now a Licensed Professional Teacher at PUP-MC– captures the kind of father he is: “Responsable at mapagmahal. Tunay na maaasahan,” said Ma'am Yajaira Erica Joya.

From an establishment molded by his professors, who served as his foundation, Sir Joya has become a solid foundation not only for his children but also for his students. He shared a moment in his life where one of his students expressed his gratitude for his guidance.

"Nasa mall ako nun, may lumapit sa akin na dati kong student, nag bless ito sa akin and sabi nya, “Sir kung hindi dahil sa mga naging tulong n'yo sa akin sa lahat ng bagay ay hindi ako magiging successful teacher."

As he reflects on his 31-year teaching career and his role as a second father to his beloved students, Sir Joya hopes they will remember him as a strict yet jolly professor who continued to serve as their second father even after retirement. He wishes to be remembered not just for the lessons he taught, but for the values he instilled.

"Kapag retired na ako at hindi na nagtuturo sa PUP sana maalala nila ako sa pagiging strikto at kwelang Professor," he shared emotionally.

At last, Sir Joya gave his funny yet inspirational message to his fellow father all over the world:

"Mahalin ang pamilya at magsilbing tunay na haligi at hindi halimaw ng tahanan."

This Father's Day, may we all be reminded that behind lesson plans and classroom memories, there is always a value that leaves and continues to shape lives. May Sir Joya's story reminds all the fathers out there that the greatest structures aren’t built with stone, but with integrity, kindness, and purpose. And like him, may you all strive to be pillars not monsters of your homes and communities.

Happy Father's Day, Sir Joya! Indeed, you are a ball of sunshine that lights the foundation we are building for the future.

by Camille Silvestre
Photo by John John Alig
Layout by Gian Keila Ferrer

12/06/2025

This Pride Month 2025, let's celebrate the 𝘫𝘰𝘸𝘢 𝘭𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘭 𝘷𝘪𝘣𝘦𝘴 of freedom to express our true self with 𝘱𝘢𝘬𝘢𝘬 na love, and living the 𝘭𝘢𝘺𝘧 without 𝘯𝘢𝘬𝘢𝘬𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘳𝘬𝘪𝘯𝘨 fear for all.🏳️‍🌈 Because every 𝘣𝘦𝘬𝘪, 𝘴𝘪𝘻𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘵𝘵𝘦, and 𝘮𝘰𝘸𝘮𝘴 deserves a world full of different shades that represents the inclusivity and a world that sees each and everyone equal regardless of their identity. 🌈✨

In world full of judgements and discrimination, be the chosen 𝘢𝘬𝘭𝘢 to represents the bonggang-bongga na pagmamahal, and a 𝘻𝘪𝘴𝘴𝘺 na handang lumabarn sa mundong hirap magbigay ng respeto at pagtanggap sa bawat isa. ✊🌸🏳️‍🌈

Pero walang 𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘢𝘴𝘩, hindi ka basta-bastang kulay lang na nasa rainbow, you are the one of reason kung bakit nagpapatuloy ang pagkinang nito. 😘✨ 𝘓𝘢𝘷𝘢𝘳𝘯 mga 𝘣𝘢𝘬𝘭𝘢, 𝘣𝘦𝘬𝘪, 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘴, 𝘵𝘰𝘮𝘣𝘰𝘺, 𝘣𝘪, 𝘱𝘢𝘯, at kung ano pang 𝘱𝘢𝘯. Just pose, and confidently celebrate Pride, celebrate being YOU✨🏳️‍🌈

𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐘 𝐏𝐑𝐈𝐃𝐄 𝐌𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐇 𝐄𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐘𝐎𝐍𝐄!!
✨🌈🏳️‍🌈

By Kyla Ann Somes
Layout by Andre Lizardo

12/06/2025

Sa paggunita ng ika-127 na Araw ng Kalayaan, alalahanin natin ang taong 1898 kung saan ang mga masalimuot na hamong naranasan ng ating kapwa Pilipino ay tuluyan ng nagwakas sa pamamagitan ng buong loob na pag sigaw ni Emilio Aguinaldo ng ating kalayaan sa mga mananakop. Ating gamitin ang araw na ito hindi lamang sa pag-alala ng nakaraan, nawa’y ito ang magpa-alab sa ating katapangan at maging pag-asa sa maliwanag na kinabukasan. Sama-sama nating ipagdiwang ang ating kalayaan ng may pagkakaisa at pagmamahal sa ating sintang bayan. Muli, Maligayang Araw ng Kalayaan!

By Kyla Ann Somes
Layout by Daniela Marie Bello

11/06/2025

NEWS FEATURE | A Celebration of Culture: PUP-MC’s Colorful Santacruzan 2025

A burst of color, faith, and tradition filled the grounds of Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Maragondon Campus (PUP-MC) Gymnasium last June 7, 2025, as students and faculty gathered for this year’s Santacruzan, carrying the theme “Kulturang Ganap, Ipagpatuloy ang Paglingap”. The event revived one of the Philippines’ most cherished cultural and religious practices—celebrating not just faith but also unity, creativity, and national pride.

Apart from Mother's Day, Santacruzan and Flores de Mayo are celebrated every May. Santacruzan and Flores de Mayo both involve women parading all over town in beautiful gowns—frequently with an es**rt and a decorative arch held above their heads. The tradition was introduced by the Spaniards in the Philippines in the 1800s. It is a significant Filipino Catholic tradition that commemorates the story of Reyna Helena, mother of Constantine the Great who discovered the Holy Cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified and was brought back to Rome. Although people usually use “Santacruzan” to refer to “Flores de Mayo,” and vice versa, they are actually different events. Flores de Mayo is a month-long event in May, while Santacruzan, held at the end of Flores de Mayo, honors Queen Helena of Constantinople’s discovering the true cross.

The program began with the grand procession of 33 Reynas (Queens) and 3 Escorts, with Constantino and Angel—capturing the attention of the campus community. Dressed in radiant gowns, the Reynas gracefully paraded around the campus while representing a significant figure or value in Filipino Catholic tradition.

Cultural Affairs Chief Inst. Sherylyn T. Trinidad stated the objectives of the program; to enrich Filipino culture, cultivate unity and creativity, and apply lessons learned in class to real-life experience. These objectives emphasized the importance of embracing and preserving these traditions, as they serve as a bridge between generations, fostering a deeper appreciation for heritage and strengthening the bonds within the catholic community.

Following this was Asst. Prof. Racquel Gutierrez who warmly welcomed the participants and attendees through her opening remarks. She also explained the difference between Flores de Mayo and Santacruzan, emphasizing the importance of preserving these traditions for future generations. She extended her gratitude to the support of parents, faculty, administration, and especially to Inst. Anthony Santos for his unwavering dedication to making the event possible.

The program continued with an inspirational message from Inst. Jhilson Gautani, giving importance to the beautiful culture of the Philippines, “Ang pilipinas ay punong puno ng magagandang kultura, magagandang lugar, at higit sa diyan ay marami rin tayong mayayamang kulturang ating kailangang pahalagahan. Sabi nga sa isang kataga, hindi ka makakarating sa iyong patutunguhan kung ‘di ka lilingon sa iyong pinanggalingan.”

Afterwards, the reynas walked the ramp and showed off their outfits, each accompanied by a description, followed by the offering of flowers to the Virgin Mary. Certificates were awarded to all Reynas, recognizing their participation and contribution in keeping the spirit of Santacruzan alive.

The program concluded with heartfelt closing remarks from Inst. Anthony Santos, who expressed his sincere appreciation to the students, faculty, sponsors, the support of parents, and everyone who contributed to the event’s success, especially the production team who organized the event.

More than just a procession and a display of elegance, this year’s Santacruzan at PUP-MC stood as a meaningful reminder of the richness of Filipino heritage. With every parade and every smile shared, the community proved its commitment to honor and preserve the traditions that continue to shape the identity of the Filipino people.

by Hanah Cruz
Photos by Querl Sumalpong and Erich Loquete
Layout by Gian Ferrer

08/06/2025

IN PHOTOS | PUPMC Santacruzan 2025

The Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Maragondon Campus in coordination with the Cultural Affairs Office showcased the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines through grace, unity, and tradition from the vibrant celebration of Santacruzan 2025, led by Inst. Anthony Santos and actively participated in by students from BSE 2-1, BSECE 2-1, and BSEE 1-1 as part of their course subject Panitikang Pilipino.

Photos by Erich Loquete and Querl Sumalpong

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