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The Echo, #1 First Street New Asinan, Olongapo (2025)

11/09/2025

[𝐒𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐒] 𝐒𝐦𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐞: 𝐘𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐓𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬, 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐏𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐄𝐲𝐞 𝐁𝐚𝐝𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

The Yellow Tigers and Green Pythons officially kicked off their badminton preparations with tryouts held on September 10, 2025, at MC Mega Court Kalaklan, in line with the upcoming Palarong Columban 2025 of Columban College, Inc. – Basic Education Department, Asinan Campus.

Athletes from both teams faced intense elimination rounds across various categories, including Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles. Each match tested their agility, endurance, and focus as players battled for a coveted spot in the official lineup.

Led by Coach Kayla Ayra Agustin, the Yellow Tigers highlighted discipline, unity, and Catholic values as their foundation for success. “The value of sportsmanship and unity will set the Yellow Tigers apart,” Agustin said, urging her players to strengthen teamwork as they aim for the championship title.

For the Green Pythons, Coach Kathleen Aragoza expressed optimism despite being in their early stages of training. She emphasized stability, enjoyment, and inspiration for her players. “I want them to enjoy the game and practice good sportsmanship. More than winning, it’s about finding inspiration to continue with the sport,” Aragoza shared.

With both teams dedicated to training and upholding Columban values, this year’s badminton matches promise not only intense competition but also a vibrant showcase of camaraderie and school pride, as the Palarong Columban 2025 officially kicks off from September 22 to 27, 2025.

Report by Raphanyl Asuelo | Editor-in-Chief
Photos by Atasha Bernardino | Staff Photojournalist

11/09/2025

[𝐈𝐂𝐘𝐌𝐈] 𝐂𝐂𝐀 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐁𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐕𝐢𝐫𝐠𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐲’𝐬 𝐍𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐚𝐞

Columban College, Inc. – Asinan celebrated the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary on September 8, 2025, at the Msgr. Crisostomo A. Cacho Activity Center, beginning at 7:30 a.m. The celebration, themed “Caritas Mariae,” aimed to deepen students’ faith through prayer, service, and kindness.

Led by Mrs. Judith Edquilane and Ms. Jessica Rose Dionisio, officers of the Children of Mary Immaculate (COMI) opened the program with a communal Rosary for elementary and junior high school students, while senior high school students prayed the Rosary within their respective classrooms.

As an expression of charity, students from all grade levels contributed food donations to support individuals in need. Greeting banners adorned the Basic Education Campus, creating an atmosphere of devotion in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Report by Siou-Sian Chen | News Editor
Photos by Ynda Magsino | Staff Photojournalist

07/09/2025

[𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐊] 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞: 𝐂𝐂𝐈 𝐇𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐬 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐋𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐋𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐢𝐧𝐢

Columban College, Inc. – Asinan Campus concluded its Buwan ng Wika 2025 celebration with the crowning of the Lakan at Lakambini winners on September 4 at the Msgr. Crisostomo A. Cacho Activity Center. The culminating event showcased student talent, artistry, and pride in Filipino culture, reaffirming the institution’s commitment to preserving the national language and heritage.

✍🎨 Raphanyl Asuelo | Editor-in-Chief and Heloise Tan | Managing Editor

07/09/2025

[𝐈𝐂𝐘𝐌𝐈] 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞: 𝐂𝐂𝐈–𝐒𝐇𝐒 𝐇𝐚𝐢𝐥𝐬 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐋𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐋𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐢𝐧𝐢

The Senior High School department of Columban College, Inc. – Asinan Campus culminated its Buwan ng Wika 2025 celebration with the staging of the Lakan at Lakambini competition. The event took place on September 4, 2025, at the Msgr. Crisostomo A. Cacho Activity Center.

The program opened with the Entrance of Colors and a prayer led by Mr. John Roland Dipalac, followed by the singing of the Pambansang Awit and the Columban Hymn by the Church Chorale. Serving as masters of ceremonies were Ms. Sheila Marie Edrosolo and Mr. Eris John Clavo.

In her welcome remarks, Mrs. Almie Virtudazo, TVL/GAS and STEM coordinator, highlighted the significance of language and culture in education. Afterwards, Mr. Mark Gil Ramos, KaKaMFi adviser and Filipino department coordinator, introduced the panel of judges, which included Ms. Hon. Mariel Leofey Bernardino, Mr. Vladimir Dela Cruz, Mr. Jon Paul Minola, and Mr. John Ray Avelino.

The Performing Arts Club performed a cultural dance as part of the opening program. Six pairs of Grade 11 representatives from the STEM and BASS clusters then paraded in traditional attire.

Each pair of candidates competed in ramp, talent, and question-and-answer segments. Their presentations focused on showcasing both traditional values and communication skills.

In between the main competition, winners of other contests were recognized, including Spoken Letter and News Feature Writing for Grade 12, as well as Talumpati, Pagsulat ng Editoryal, and Malikhaing Pagsayaw for Grade 11. The dance group Silakbo from BASS 11, proclaimed champions of the Malikhaing Pagsayaw, then showcased their winning piece.

Additional titles were awarded, including Lakan at Lakambini ng Balarila, Retorika, Panitikan, Natatanging Kasuotan, Palakaibigan, Bayan, and Natatanging Larawan. These recognitions were given based on specific categories of performance and presentation.

In his closing message, Mr. John Ray Avelino, KaKaMFi adviser, expressed gratitude to the faculty, learners, and parents who supported the event. He also highlighted the relevance of activities that promote Filipino language and culture.

The program concluded with the announcement of the overall winners. Tristan Wayne Redondo and Phoebe Jael Solis, both from BASS 11, were proclaimed Lakan and Lakambini ng Buwan ng Wika 2025.

The culminating program formally ended the month-long observance of Buwan ng Wika 2025 at CCI–SHS. It documented student participation and the school’s initiatives in celebrating the national language and heritage.

Report by Heloise Tan | Managing Editor and Raphanyl Asuelo | Editor-in-Chief
Photos by Keira Dimalanta and Ynda Magsino | Staff Photojournalists

07/09/2025

[𝐈𝐂𝐘𝐌𝐈] 𝐂𝐂𝐈 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬 𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐁𝐮𝐰𝐚𝐧 𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐢𝐤𝐚 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

The closing program of Buwan ng Wika 2025 was held on September 4, 2025, at the Msgr. Crisostomo A. Cacho Activity Center. The event was spearheaded by the Kalipunan ng mga Kabataang Mag-aaral sa Filipino (KaKaMFi) in collaboration with various school organizations.

Serving as masters of ceremonies were Ms. Sheila Marie Edrosolo and Mr. Eris John Clavo, who guided the flow of the program. The celebration began at 8:30 AM with an opening prayer led by Sir John Roland Dipalac, followed by the Pambansang Awit and Columban Hymn performed by the Church Chorale.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Edrian A. Laxamana, Elementary and Junior High School Coordinator, highlighted the importance of preserving the Filipino language and cultural identity. He emphasized the role of education in instilling pride in the nation’s heritage.

The panel of judges was introduced by Sir Mark Gil H. Ramos, featuring Mr. Justine C. Constantino, Ms. Anna Trisha O. Rodrigo, Mr. Julius Caesar A. Maya, and Mr. Alvin Joseph N. Caseja. They evaluated the participants’ creativity, expression, and performance across various competitions.

The event featured the awarding of outstanding students in competitions such as Malikhain Pagkulay (Kinder and Grade 1), Galang Guhit at Guni-Guni (Grade 2), and Bata Makata (Grade 3). Winners from higher grade levels were also recognized in contests such as Pagsulat ng Balita, Pamamahayag sa Pahayagan, Pamamahayag sa Pantelebisyon, Tularawan at Podcast, Maramihang Awit, and Sabayang Pagbigkas.

The Performing Arts Club presented a cultural dance number, while selected HUMSS students serenaded the Lakan and Lakambini contestants in a special intermission performance.

One of the highlights of the program was the Lakan at Lakambini ng Buwan ng Wika 2025, where contestants from Grades 7 to 10 walked the stage in traditional attire representing Philippine ethnolinguistic groups and took part in a question-and-answer portion on culture, language, and youth involvement in society.

The winners were formally proclaimed as Lakan at Lakambini ng Buwan ng Wika 2025 during the final walk and awarding ceremony. Apart from the main titles, contestants also bagged special awards such as Lakan at Lakambini ng Natatanging Larawan, Bayan, Palakaibigan, Natatanging Kasuotan, Retorika, Balarila, and Panitikan.

For Grades 7–8, the titles were awarded to Zamuell Quinn Reyes of Grade 8–St. Pius V and Alexa Audrie H. Carter of Grade 7–St. Valentine, while for Grades 9–10, the winners were Dwine Win G. Esposo of Grade 10–St. Frances of Rome and Clarita Anne M. Ebuenga of Grade 9–St. Anthony Mary Claret, bagging the main titles of Lakan and Lakambini ng Buwan ng Wika 2025.

In his closing remarks, Mr. John Ray Avelino, KaKaMFi adviser, underscored the importance of the Filipino language and the need to preserve it as a vital part of cultural identity and national heritage.

The Buwan ng Wika 2025 celebration at Columban College, Inc. – Asinan Campus reaffirmed its mission to uphold the Filipino language and heritage, strengthening the institution’s role in nurturing national identity.

Report by Raphanyl Asuelo | Editor-in-Chief and Heloise Tan | Managing Editor
Photos by Keira Dimalanta and Ynda Magsino | Staff Photojournalists

03/09/2025

[𝐒𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐒] 𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬, 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐭𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧𝐬 𝐁𝐥𝐚𝐳𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐏𝐚𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐧 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐒𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐁𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧

The Blue Dolphins, Green Pythons, Yellow Tigers, and Maroon Hawks kicked off official tryouts for Palarong Columban 2025 on September 3 at the Columban College, Inc. – Asinan Campus, setting the tone for an electrifying season of school pride and athletic rivalry.

Athletes from various academic strands gathered to compete for limited roster spots across multiple sporting events, including volleyball, basketball, chess, table tennis, aero dance, and e-sports. The campus buzzed with intensity as hopefuls gave their all to impress coaches and secure their place on their respective teams.

In volleyball, the Green Pythons and Blue Dolphins immediately showcased their competitive edge, putting players through rigorous tests of stamina, agility, and teamwork. Green Pythons Volleyball Coach Mr. Rhasty Cuevas shared the challenges of finalizing his lineup, saying, “Actually, medyo nahihirapan kami mamili sa selection of players kasi madaming magagaling, so nahihirapan kami mamili kung sino talaga yung ilalaban namin sa magic 12.”

Meanwhile, Mrs. Almie Virtudazo, STEM and TVL/GAS Coordinator, highlighted the athletes’ growing drive and confidence as she observed the tryouts. “So far, so good kasi ano naman ‘yung mga nagta-tryouts, medyo nafe-feel na nila yung spirit ng sportsfest. Kagaya ngayon, parang nasho-showcase na nila kung anong kaya nila,” she said, emphasizing how the players are slowly embodying the essence of competition.

Beyond volleyball, other sporting events delivered their own moments of intensity. In table tennis, Ms. Normalyn Dela Cruz, Coach of the Green Pythons, revealed that they are still finalizing their female singles roster, “Sa girls, both singles pa lang. We’re still waiting for participants na magta-tryouts.”

In chess, turnout was stronger for the boys’ division, but Ms. Anna Liza Dela Cruz, Chess Coach of the Pythons, noted a gap in the girls’ lineup, explaining, “Marami ang players ng boys kaysa sa girls, so maghahanap pa ako ng girls, dahil kulang kami ng isa.”

Meanwhile, the aero dance auditions tested participants’ synchronization, coordination, and endurance, while the e-sports tryouts attracted a surge of enthusiastic gamers eager to represent their teams in competitive online arenas, a rising highlight of this year’s intramurals.

The day concluded with the basketball tryouts, where athletes from all four teams endured rigorous drills and intense scrimmages. Coaches carefully assessed each player’s individual skill and team chemistry in preparation for final roster announcements.

Despite the fierce competition, sportsmanship remained at the heart of the event. Mr. Anghelito Bermejo, STEM Coordinator, reminded everyone of Columban College’s shared community spirit, saying, “It’s just a friendly game, so Green Pythons will be a sister team of Blue Dolphins. Remember that STEM is one big family, so extended family namin ang Green Pythons.”

With final lineups yet to be determined, the Blue Dolphins, Green Pythons, Yellow Tigers, and Maroon Hawks continue sharpening their preparations for Palarong Columban 2025, promising thrilling clashes, breakout performances, and a celebration of Columban College’s finest athletic talents.

Report by Raymond Hormillosa | Sports Editor
Photos by Edrian Carillo | Science Editor, Chad Lopez | Media and Graphics Editor, and Aleisha Mangalindan | Head Layout Artist

31/08/2025

[𝐅𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄] 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐫𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀𝐥𝐨𝐧𝐞

In a world that often feels like Lorde’s “A World Alone,” even the brightest classroom can feel like a lonely stage and every assignment like a towering wave. Yet within this seeming isolation lies the subtle art of learning together — the way whispers over shared notebooks, laughter in the corners of the library, and the simple exchange of ideas can transform the grind of academics into a colorful mosaic of collective growth, resilience, and joy.

To master this art is to realize that education is not meant to be a solitary climb — it is a shared journey where burdens are lighter and victories sweeter.

Behind every sleepless night of reviewing and every frantic rush to meet a deadline are classmates and friends who quietly make the path more navigable. The faint scratch of pens on paper, the soft hum of laptops, and the aroma of coffee and instant noodles become the backdrop of collaboration — small details that signal the presence of companionship even in the most exhausting moments.

Many of us, while juggling academics and everyday life, often feel the weight of facing tasks alone. Yet the friends who stand by us — encouraging, guiding, and laughing with us — illuminate the way. They remind us that the art of not learning alone is not merely about dividing work, but about sharing understanding, offering patience, and turning frustration into moments of connection.

Performance tasks, research, filming, reviewing for exams — within just a week, it can feel like an endless torrent threatening to overwhelm. But if you look closely, you’ll notice how encouragement and support from others act like lifeboats in a stormy sea. Shared strategies, late-night clarifications, and small victories whispered over study notes make even the heaviest workload feel manageable. In these moments, learning becomes not a solitary challenge but a dance of minds, each step supported by the rhythm of friendship.

Our classmates, friends, and even casual acquaintances bear witness to our struggles. They know the jittery tapping of pencils, the sighs over crumpled drafts, the nervous glances before quizzes — and they are present in all of it. The art of not learning alone lies in recognizing these companions, seeing the invisible threads of support that weave our shared experiences into strength.

Sometimes, simply knowing that others are navigating the same challenges makes it easier to keep moving forward. That’s why it’s important to lean on one another and remind ourselves, “You are not alone.” And as Lorde’s song reminds us, “I know I belong, I know I belong, in a world alone,” even in that sense of solitude, the connection and support from friends turn isolation into shared triumphs.

It is a heartwarming reminder that even when you feel alone, someone will always understand and lift you up. And as we continue our academic journey, challenges will inevitably come — but alongside them will be memories of collaboration, laughter, and the small victories that come from leaning on each other. These moments, however fleeting, become lessons in the art of not learning everything alone.

So in the months and years ahead, when more challenges arrive, it will always be better to have — and to be — a helping hand. After all, those around us are the ones who know us best, and in this shared navigation of life’s academic storms, we learn not just the curriculum but the enduring value of connection.

The acquaintances, classmates, peers, and closest friends — whatever role they play in your life — remind us that the journey is never meant to be faced alone. Just as you can lean on others, you can also be the helping hand that someone else needs. These shared struggles, laughs, and memories stay with us, making every solitary moment a little less lonely and every triumph a little more luminous.

So keep your chin up. In the moments when you feel like you’re in a world alone, look around — because the friends you’ve made, and the ones you’ll make along the way, will be the bright threads weaving your solitary struggles into a vibrant tapestry of shared triumph, laughter, and growth.

✍ Reese Dela Torre | Feature Writer
💻 Raphanyl Asuelo | Editor-in-Chief
🎨 Erica Mariano | Staff Cartoonist

31/08/2025

[𝐈𝐂𝐘𝐌𝐈] 𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐀𝐫𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐀𝐢𝐫𝐰𝐚𝐯𝐞𝐬: 𝐂𝐂𝐈 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐰𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐨𝐝𝐜𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐬

As part of the culmination of Buwan ng Wika 2025 and in line with this year’s theme, "Paglinang sa Filipino at Katutubong Wika: Makasaysayan sa Pagkakaisa ng Bansa," Columban College, Inc. – Asinan held the Tularawan and Podcasting contests on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, in Room P105.

The Tularawan contest, open to Grades 7 and 8, started at 1:30 PM under the supervision of Filipino teachers Mr. John Ray Avelino, Ms. Sheila Marie Edrosolo, and Mr. Mark Gil Ramos. Participants created visual presentations showcasing Filipino life, traditions, and values, combining artistic techniques with storytelling elements.

The Podcasting contest for Grades 9 and 10 also began at 1:30 PM, coordinated by KaKaMFi Advisers Mr. Mark Gil Ramos and Mr. John Ray Avelino. Students produced audio segments on cultural topics, incorporating research and communication skills while highlighting Filipino traditions and values.

Both contests were part of the activities held on the same day, complementing other competitions in Malikhaing Pagsayaw, Maramihang Awit, and Sabayang Pagbigkas, and aligned with the Buwan ng Wika 2025 theme promoting Filipino language and native tongues.

Results for the Tularawan and Podcasting contests, along with winners of the other competitions and the Lakan and Lakambini pageant, will be announced during the closing ceremonies on Thursday, September 4, 2025, at the Msgr. Crisostomo A. Cacho Activity Center.

Report by Raphanyl Asuelo | Editor-in-Chief
Photos by Rixelle Meracap | Photojournalist

31/08/2025

[𝐈𝐂𝐘𝐌𝐈] 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐁𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐨 𝐂𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐁𝐮𝐰𝐚𝐧 𝐧𝐠 𝐖𝐢𝐤𝐚 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

Columban College, Inc. – Asinan celebrated Buwan ng Wika 2025 on Wednesday, August 27, at the Msgr. Crisostomo A. Cacho Activity Center with student competitions in dance, choral singing, and spoken word, highlighting this year’s theme: “Paglinang sa Filipino at Katutubong Wika: Makasaysayan sa Pagkakaisa ng Bansa.”

The program, with Mr. Eris John Clavo as master of ceremonies, opened with a message from Mr. Mark Gil H. Ramos, KaKaMFi (Kalipunan ng mga Kabataang Mag-aaral sa Filipino) adviser and Filipino Department coordinator. Ramos emphasized the importance of Filipino and indigenous languages in fostering national identity and unity.

The first segment, Malikhaing Pagsayaw, featured four Grade 11 groups from STEM and BASS clusters. The competition required students to perform interpretative or theatrical dances combining storytelling, choreography, and cultural elements. BASS groups Silakbo and Talas competed against STEM’s Kahayag and Anilag.

Grades 7 and 8 pupils then participated in Maramihang Awit, a choral singing contest where groups perform coordinated vocal pieces emphasizing harmony, musicality, and Filipino cultural themes. Four groups showcased their ability to work as a team while celebrating Filipino musical traditions.

The final competition, Sabayang Pagbigkas, involved Grade 9 and 10 participants and highlights the art of group recitation. Participants combine voice modulation, expressive delivery, and dramatic interpretation to bring poems or literary pieces to life, demonstrating both creativity and cultural awareness.

At the program’s conclusion, KaKaMFi adviser Mr. John Ray Avelino thanked the participants, judges, teachers, and parents. He emphasized that the day’s cultural activities highlighted Filipino identity and demonstrated the role of arts and performance in promoting community cohesion and national unity.

The day's champions included Silakbo of BASS 11 for Malikhaing Pagsayaw, Grade 7 students from St. Cyril of Jerusalem for Maramihang Awit, and Grade 10 learners from St. Damien De Veuster for Sabayang Pagbigkas.

Additional winners will be announced during the closing ceremonies on Thursday, September 4, 2025, when the Lakan and Lakambini competition will also be held.

Furthermore, the afternoon program featured additional contests, including Tularawan and podcasting, involving students from Grades 7 to 10 and providing further opportunities to showcase creativity and collaboration.

These activities offered further opportunities for students to demonstrate creativity, collaboration, and engagement with Filipino culture.

Report by Raphanyl Asuelo | Editor-in-Chief and Siou-Sian Chen | News Editor
Photos by Jesse Santos, Keira Dimalanta, and Rixelle Meracap | Photojournalists

30/08/2025

[𝐅𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄] 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐮𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐍𝐎𝐖: 𝐒𝐢𝐱𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬, 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐁𝐥𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐬

Fifty-eight bodies, thirty-two of them journalists, buried beneath the sun-scorched hills of Ampatuan, Maguindanao. November 23 — a day carved into the nation’s memory, a wound that refuses to heal. What should have been routine coverage of democracy became a mass grave for truth itself. And now — sixteen years later — the soil still bleeds.

The Maguindanao Massacre remains one of the darkest chapters in Philippine history. A political contest turned into a scene of unimaginable horror, exposing the deadly intersection of politics, power, and impunity — and leaving a nation in shock. International watchdogs, including the Committee to Protect Journalists and Reporters Without Borders, confirm it as the deadliest single attack on journalists worldwide, illustrating the extreme perils faced by media personnel in volatile regions.

𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗖𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗣𝗲𝗻𝘀

Long before newspapers filled Philippine streets, brave writers risked imprisonment, exile, and death to confront colonial rule. Marcelo H. del Pilar and fellow reformists turned the pen into a weapon, exposing injustices and awakening public consciousness. Their courage sowed the seeds of a press that would endure, evolve, and fight relentlessly for truth.

During the American colonial period, newspapers became powerful platforms for political discourse and nationalist advocacy. Freedom of expression remained fragile, constantly tested by government oversight and social pressures. Journalists navigated a treacherous path between reporting truth and safeguarding their lives, often paying a steep personal price.

Under Marcos’ dictatorship, censorship tightened, with media outlets shuttered and dissenting voices silenced or imprisoned. Underground publications and clandestine reporting flourished, proving that investigative journalism could not be quelled. This legacy of fearless reporting endures today, providing crucial context for understanding the modern-day repercussions of the Ampatuan massacre and the legal safeguards that followed.

𝗔𝗺𝗽𝗮𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗻’𝘀 𝗩𝗲𝗿𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗚𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗧𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝗕𝗹𝗼𝗼𝗱𝘆 𝗥𝗲𝗱

Once a lush and vibrant municipality, Ampatuan, Maguindanao, became the stage for the deadliest single attack on journalists in world history. On that fateful day, reporters covering the political candidacy of Esmael Mangudadatu were ambushed by armed men tied to a powerful local clan, their bodies dumped in mass graves across fields scorched by the sun. According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, this massacre remains the most lethal assault on media workers globally, a chilling testament to the dangers of reporting truth in politically volatile regions.

The massacre plunged the Philippine media into a climate of paralyzing fear. Many journalists resorted to self-censorship to survive, while newsrooms fortified their offices and security protocols. Advocacy groups amplified calls for legal protections and safer working conditions, even as international watchdogs like Reporters Without Borders decried the impunity that corrodes press freedom and shakes the foundations of democracy.

Yet amid the fear, the tragedy ignited a surge of resolve and activism. Investigations uncovered systemic failures in law enforcement, exposing how entrenched political power can directly threaten truth-tellers. Ampatuan became more than a site of horror — it became a grim benchmark, a reminder that the fight for press freedom is neither abstract nor optional, but a daily struggle for survival, accountability, and justice.

𝗗𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗰𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘆’𝘀 𝗟𝗲𝗴𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗿𝗺𝗼𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝘁𝘀

The horrors of Ampatuan ignited more than outrage — they spurred action. Republic Act No. 11699, which declares August 30 as National Press Freedom Day, honors Marcelo H. del Pilar and the journalists who gave their lives pursuing the truth. The law affirms that the press is a cornerstone of democracy, and that fearless reporting is not just noble — it is inherently perilous.

Yet RA 11699 is more than ceremonial recognition — it is a living platform for education, remembrance, and advocacy. Despite this legal shield, journalists continue to face harassment, red-tagging, and waves of digital disinformation, as reported by Reporters Without Borders in 2023. Legal recognition alone cannot safeguard truth-tellers — vigilance, solidarity, and societal support are essential if press freedom is to survive.

Today, threats have evolved beyond bullets to the digital battlefield, from political intimidation to cyber attacks. National Press Freedom Day stands as both a reminder and a rallying cry, urging citizens and authorities alike to defend those who risk everything to report the truth. RA 11699 functions as both shield and challenge — fortifying journalists while demanding that society protect the fragile liberties that sustain democracy.

𝗠𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗡𝗢𝗪: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗨𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗲𝗱 𝗪𝗮𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗼𝗺

Sixteen years after the blood-soaked fields of Ampatuan, Philippine journalists still walk a tightrope between truth and danger. Bullets may have faded into memory, but threats now take digital and political forms — online harassment, red-tagging, and disinformation campaigns stalk those who dare to report. The legacy of MaguindaNOW is a stark testament that courage and vigilance are not occasional choices — they are lifelines for the nation’s storytellers.

In today’s media landscape, resilience has become a survival skill, and adaptability a daily necessity. Newsrooms balance the relentless pursuit of public information with the ever-present imperative of staff safety. Every published story becomes an act of defiance, a flare of light piercing the shadows of intimidation, a declaration that truth will not be silenced, even under relentless pressure and scrutiny.

MaguindaNOW is both warning and rallying cry. Until journalists can report without fear, the battle for a fearless, protected press remains unfinished. The shadow of the massacre stretches across every newsroom, compelling the nation to confront persistent threats and defend the lifeblood of democracy with unwavering resolve.

The legacy of the Maguindanao Massacre stands as an unyielding testament to the fragility of press freedom. From the ink-stained corridors of colonial resistance to the digital trenches of today, journalists have confronted oppression, censorship, and violence, yet their unwavering courage continues to illuminate truths that would otherwise remain in shadow. Every investigation pursued, every exposé published, every story told against formidable odds reaffirms the indispensable role of a fearless press — a sentinel holding power accountable and safeguarding the pillars of democracy.

Legal frameworks like RA 11699 may formalize protection, but the true armor of journalism is forged in vigilance, solidarity, and collective resolve. Citizens, institutions, and media organizations alike bear the weighty responsibility of defending those who dare to speak truth to power, ensuring that the press remains unflinching in its pursuit of justice. Fearlessness is not bestowed — it is nurtured, sustained, and fiercely protected by society itself.

As the sun continues to rise over the hills of Ampatuan, the soil may still bear the scars of that fateful day — but the stories of those who survived, and those who fight in their stead, ensure that truth endures. The land that once soaked in blood continues to remind the nation — press freedom is a responsibility, not a privilege, and its defense is a battle that never truly ends.

✍ Raphanyl Asuelo | Editor-in-Chief
🎨 Heloise Tan | Managing Editor

27/08/2025

[𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒] 𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐠𝐮𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐲: 𝐃𝐚𝐭𝐚 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐜𝐲 𝐎𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐑𝐚𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐀𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐂𝐂𝐈

Columban College, Inc. – Asinan, through its Basic Education Department, conducted a Data Privacy Orientation at the Convery Hall today, August 27, 2025, to strengthen understanding of data protection and to inform students and faculty about their rights under the Data Privacy Act of 2012 (RA 10173).

Engineer Noel Yap, Data Privacy Officer and Dean of the College of Computer Studies, served as the keynote speaker and explained the major provisions of RA 10173, including how the law applies to both institutions and individuals.

The program opened with a prayer led by SSLG Treasurer Cecilia Abueg, followed by the playing of the Philippine National Anthem and the Columban Hymn through an audio-visual presentation.

In their remarks, SSLG President Lance Andrew Raro and SSLG Protocol Officer Rhiana Yoo described personal information as a treasure that must be handled with care, emphasizing that the seminar was designed as both a learning opportunity and a platform for dialogue.

The orientation gathered classroom officers, club leaders, and organizational presidents, who were encouraged to become advocates of data protection within their respective groups.

Yap defined individuals as “data subjects” whose personal details must be safeguarded against misuse, covering everything from basic personal information to sensitive and privileged records.

He identified the three main classifications of data under the law: personal information, sensitive personal information, and privileged information, and explained that each category requires careful handling to ensure compliance.

The rights of data subjects were also discussed, including the right to be informed, the right to access, the right to object, and the right to erasure, with emphasis that complaints can be filed if these rights are violated.

Yap further explained that the processing of personal data must always observe the principles of transparency, proportionality, and legitimate purpose, which organizations and schools are legally bound to follow.

Practical applications in the school setting were cited, such as the necessity of obtaining consent for student activities and the presence of privacy notices.

In his conclusion, Yap stated that data protection is not only a legal requirement but also an ethical responsibility that ensures respect for both individuals and institutions.

The seminar formally ended with closing remarks from Raro and Yoo, who thanked the participants and reaffirmed the importance of privacy in everyday practice.

Report and Photos by Raphanyl Asuelo | Editor-in-Chief

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