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The Gears Publication, Santa Cruz (2025)

26/04/2025

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 | 𝟏𝟎𝟖 𝐋𝐒𝐏𝐔-𝐒𝐂𝐂 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐬' 𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝 '𝟐𝟓 𝐌𝐃𝐀

Exercising their rights to hear critical views and ask relevant questions, a 108-student live audience attended the 2025 Miting de Avance to formally meet the official candidates for the Supreme Student Council (SSC) Elections, held at the Student Services Building (SSB) Function Hall, April 25.

Anchored under the theme “Halaga: Paninindigan, Pananagutan, Pagbabago", the Local Commission on Elections (COMELEC) spearheaded the event, providing an avenue for students to evaluate the candidates who presented their platforms and engaged in electoral discourse.

Atty. Rushid Jay Sancon, Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), reminded students that voting—or choosing not to vote—comes with responsibility, emphasizing the importance of listening to each candidate’s stance.

"'Yung pagboto mo, 'yung hindi mo pagboto, may pananagutan kayo. Kaya napakaimportante na marinig natin ang sasabihin nila—ng mga kumakandidato," VPAA stressed.

Furthermore, individual candidates were also asked to express their views on pressing issues, such as abortion, student activism, political dynasties, the SOGIE Bill, charter change, and mandatory ROTC, by drawing from pre-made questions in the student publication.

A live open forum also allowed students from the audience to raise concerns and ask questions directly.

Janna Jermaigne Durante, a sophomore from the Bachelor of Science in Psychology, expressed her thoughts as someone who attended and exchanged opinions with her fellow voters during the event.

"This event helped me get a better idea of who the candidates really are beyond their stances or slogan," she said.

Durante also shared that hearing the candidates answer questions helped her discern those who truly knew their stance from those who had merely memorized it.

"Even their body language says a lot about their experiences," she claimed.

Local COMELEC also aired the event via Facebook, which garnered approximately 6.8 thousand viewers.

The SSC Election, to be held online, is scheduled to take place on April 30.

Words: Clarize Angela Dela Cruz, Jiellianne Oliva

25/04/2025

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 | 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐂 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐫: 𝐍𝐨𝐭 𝐚 𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬, 𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐚 𝐟𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐒𝐏𝐔

“Let's be wise, observant, and responsible in choosing the right leaders. Because at the end of the day, this is not just a battle between candidates, this is a fight towards a better and a powered LSPU.”

Joshua Angelo Del Cozar, Chairperson for the Federated and Local Commission on Elections (COMELEC) of Laguna State Polytechnic University - Sta. Cruz Campus (LSPU-SCC) stressed, as he encouraged the students to remain steadfast and aware about the upcoming elections in his closing remarks for the 2025 Miting de Avance, April 25.

Del Cozar wrapped up the event, which was held at the Student Services Building (SSB) Function Hall, by reminding the common cause students fight for.

Furthermore, the COMELEC Chairperson expressed his gratitude to the various people which aided the event.

Words: Kurt Florence Talan
Photos: Justine Rebong

25/04/2025

𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄 | Proceeding to the next segment for the 2025 Supreme Student Council (SSC) Miting de Avance, students of Laguna State Polytechnic – Sta. Cruz Campus (LSPU-SCC) addressed their queries towards the aspiring candidates in an open forum held at the Student Services Building (SSB) Function Hall, April 25.

Words: Jiellianne Oliva
Photo: Justine Rebong

25/04/2025

𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐄𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐍𝐎𝐖 | Upon concluding the presentation of platforms, Supreme Student Council (SSC) candidates of Laguna State Polytechnic University - Sta. Cruz Campus (LSPU-SCC) expounded their stances on university and national issues in the open forum segment of the 2025 Miting de Avance, held at the Student Services Building (SSB) Function Hall, April 25.

Words: April Anne Rubio
Photos: Justine Rebong and Johan Esparrago

25/04/2025

𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄 | Supreme Student Council (SSC) candidates presented their individual and group platforms as part of the 2025 Miting de Avance, held at the Laguna State Polytechnic University - Sta. Cruz Campus (LSPU-SCC) Student Services Building (SSB) Function Hall, April 25.

Words: Raiza Chrizette Regalado
Photos: Justine Rebong

25/04/2025

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 | 𝐕𝐏𝐀𝐀 𝐒𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐨𝐧 𝐮𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐜𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲

"Because whatever promises, whatever commitment ang binitawan ninyo [mga kumakandidato] ngayon dito, sisingilin kayo nito, naka-record, naka-live."

Atty. Rushid Jay Sancon, Laguna State Polytechnic University (LSPU) Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), emphasized the role of accountability and integrity in leadership in his speech for the 2025 LSPU-Sta. Cruz Campus (LSPU-SCC) Supreme Student Council (SSC) Miting de Avance, April 25.

Additionally, Atty. Sancon took note of the students' responsibilities as voters, underscoring the weight of their choices and active participation.

"Yung pagboto mo, 'yung hindi mo pagboto, may pananagutan kayo. Kaya napakaimportante na marinig natin ang sasabihin nila [ng mga kumakandidato]," the VPAA shared.

Concluding his speech, Atty. Sancon stressed the importance of recognizing the candidates as potential student leaders, encouraging students to be critical and responsible.

"Pagkakataon niyo ito para makilala sila, pero sana, mas makilala natin sila bilang student leader," he expressed.

Words: Yael Evangelista
Photos: Justine Rebong

25/04/2025

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 | 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐅𝐒𝐒𝐂 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐬' 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐯𝐨𝐭𝐞

Hon. Louis Laine B. Padua, Outgoing Federated Supreme Student Council (FSSC), stressed the critical importance of exercising the right to vote to her fellow students in her inspirational message during the 2025 Miting de Avance, April 25.

“Maaari talaga kayong bumoto at iyon ang karapatan ninyo bilang Ka-Piyu, ang magsilbing boses [at] magpahayag kung ano ba ang naisin ninyo,” Padua asserted.

Wrapping up her speech, the outgoing president gave a reminder for the students to vote wisely — not only for their leaders, but for the proper representation of the LSPU system.

“Isa lang ang paalala ko, tumindig kayo, para sa Ka-Piyu. Iyon at ‘yon ang huwag ninyong kakalimutan — lagi’t lagi para sa Ka-Piyu,” she said.

Words: Kurt Florence Talan
Photo: Eunice Lubuguin

25/04/2025

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 | 𝐃𝐫. 𝐒𝐚𝐧 𝐋𝐮𝐢𝐬: 𝐌𝐚𝐲 𝐧𝐚𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐧 𝐩𝐚 𝐫𝐢𝐧 𝐮𝐩𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐛𝐢

“It is truly inspiring [dahil] kahit sabihin natin na kakaunti ang tumayo mayroon pa rin nanindigan upang kayo ay pagsilbihan,”

Dr. Christian P. San Luis, Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS) Chairperson of Laguna State Polytechnic University-Sta. Cruz Campus (LSPU-SCC) stressed in his inspirational message for the 2025 Supreme Student Council (SSC) Miting de Avance, held at the Student Services Building (SSB) Function Hall, April 25.

OSAS Chairperson also highlighted the real goal of leadership, citing that having a strong vision and willpower are crucial assets for leaders.

“Our future relies on the strong visionary leaders who are willing to step forward, and take on the challenge[s] that come with its role,” he said.

Furthermore, Dr. San Luis encouraged everyone to come together and create a place where every student can thrive.

“Let us unite in our mission to create a university that values the principles of leadership, collaboration, and empathy,” he stated.

Words: Raizza Chrizette Regalado
Photos: Justine Rebong

25/04/2025

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 | 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐞, 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 — 𝐋𝐚𝐯𝐚

“Your willingness to serve speaks volumes. Sana ay magpatuloy ang inyong passion—leadership with purpose, not just position”

Leomarc A. Lava, MBA, Adviser of the Laguna State Polytechnic University - Santa Cruz Campus (LSPU-SCC) Supreme Student Council (SSC) and Local Commission on Election (COMELEC), reminded the aspiring candidates of their courage to step up as student leaders during his opening speech for the Miting de Avance 2025, held at the LSPU-SCC Student Services Building (SSB) Function Hall, April 25.

Lava emphasized that leaders do not need to be perfect, but they must be genuine with their intentions.

“As young people, we often hear that we are the ‘pag-asa ng bayan’. Totoo 'yan—but only if we act, think, and lead in the right and organized way,” he added.

Lava also encouraged the audience to prioritize unity and respect during the election period and to exercise their right to vote to shape a better community, highlighting the power students hold to make a change with a wise choice.

“Ang tunay na pagbabago ay nagsisimula sa tamang pagpili," he stressed.

Words: Robegayle Seno
Photos: Justine Rebong

25/04/2025

𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐔𝐏𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄 | 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐋𝐄𝐂 𝐥𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 '𝟐𝟓 𝐌𝐃𝐀

In line with the upcoming Supreme Student Council (SSC) Elections, Laguna State Polytechnic University - Sta. Cruz Campus (LSPU-SCC) Commission on Elections (COMELEC) officially kicked off the 2025 Miting de Avance, April 25.

Held at the Student Services Building (SSB) Function Hall, the event commenced with 45 live audience attended by university officials, and aspirants from KAHIMANAWARI Party and Independent candidates.

The live broadcast for Miting de Avance can be accessed through LSPU-SCC COMELEC’s Facebook link below:

https://www.facebook.com/COMELECLSPUSCC/videos/2404639673255603/?mibextid=rS40aB7S9Ucbxw6v

Words: Angeila Beliber
Photos: Justine Rebong

25/04/2025

𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐄𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐍𝐎𝐖 | Laguna State Polytechnic University-Sta. Cruz Campus (LSPU-SCC) students gather for the Supreme Student Council (SSC) Miting de Avance held at the Student Services Building (SSB) Function Hall, April 25.

With the theme “Halaga: Paninindigan. Pananagutan. Pagbabago”, LSPU-SCC Commission on Elections (COMELEC) organized the event for the candidates to present their platforms and stances, proving their credibility for a spot on the council.

Words: Angeila Beliber
Photos: Justine Rebong

24/04/2025

𝐒𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐒 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 | 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐬 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐬 𝐅𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐚𝐥 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬; 𝐂𝐈𝐓 𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐦𝐬 𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐡

College of Industrial Technology (CIT) hailed as the overall champion in the Intramurals Sports Festival 2025 after bagging a total of 53 golds, held at Laguna State Polytechnic University - Sta. Cruz Campus (LSPU-SCC), March 26-28.

With the theme “Bringing Back Campus Intramurals Alive–Bridging Camaraderie through Sports,” the competition marked the return of the university’s much-anticipated sports event after its six-year hiatus since its last run in 2019.

Showcasing their athletes’ determination and skills, CIT claimed the top spot in the Intramurals Festival, followed by the College of Teacher Education (CTE) as first runner-up, the College of Computer Studies (CCS) as second runner-up, and the College of Engineering (COE) as third runner-up.

Aside from providing enjoyment for the students, the event also aims to serve as a platform in selecting possible athletes to compete for higher level competitions.

Mr. Danilo N. Daran, LSPU-SCC Sports Director, mentioned that in the coming years, their decision-making and activities would be more organized, with better planning starting next year.

“Asahan n’yo na ito [Intramurals Festival] ay magtutuloy-tuloy na at gagawan pa natin ng mas magandang budget para maging mas maganda ‘yung ating intramurals sa susunod,” he added.

He also shared that the University-Wide Sports Festival is set to take place in the first semester of School Year (S.Y.) 2025-2026.

Words: Darcel Ann Del Rosario

24/04/2025

𝐅𝐄𝐀𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄𝐒 | 𝐂𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞: 𝐖𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞

For years, women have been expected to follow rather than lead, to support from the sidelines, and to stay quiet in rooms where decisions are made—even in technology, with all its complex algorithms—believing that it's a domain reserved for men.

They said it was a “man’s world,” but she proved them wrong. Maria Clarisse Macapallag, a 23-year‐old alumnus of Laguna State Polytechnic University–Santa Cruz Campus (LSPU-SCC), rewrites the rules of innovation, garnering list of achievements in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), and proving that navigating through the complex world of technology knows no gender.

It started in the curious corridors of high school. Her journey in ICT began unexpectedly during a mathematics competition that opened her door to the world of programming. Under the guidance of her seniors, she made contributions in developing their very first app–a humble beginning that would soon lead to milestones far greater.

From that moment on, what once seemed an unfamiliar code transformed into a language she would master. As she studied for Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, it aligned her interests and passion for ICT to thrive by honing her skills. Her hard work and dedication made her earn achievements like Intelligent Systems Innovator Award, and second place for Best Thesis Paper at the National Research Conference on IT Education, with a web application that bridges the gap in legal access, helping users navigate family related legal issues.

However, even with her impressive skills and countless awards, the path was not easy. The trailblazer highlighted the persistent gender gap in ICT, where women continue to fight for equal opportunities and recognition.

“As a woman in a male-dominated field, some people would just expect less from you,” Macapallag said. But instead of being discouraged, she used that doubt as her fuel, proving not only her own capabilities, but also forging a new perspective on women in the technological world.

The future of technology isn't just about innovation; it's about inclusion, imagination, and the women's bold minds in shaping the blueprint of our digital future. As we celebrate International Girls in ICT Day, may we remember the women who dared to dream beyond expectations and have contributed to improving the digital world. This day is more than just a celebration, it is a call that echoes in the circuits of progress, making us aware that the future of technology must be woven with the voices of women and that every brilliant mind matters.

Words: Alexa Flores
Layout: Yvonne Fuentes

24/04/2025

𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐘𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐄 | 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞, 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫𝐬, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐏𝐞𝐧𝐡𝐨𝐥𝐝.

One week of practice is all it takes? Maybe add a bit of prayer to the mix, and then you’ll reach success. After all, that’s what Lean Carl Sierra and Gabriel Dela Cruz did. The duo from the College of Engineering (COE) rose up to claim the championship for Table Tennis Doubles through their unwavering trust in themselves, each other, and divine providence.

“Nagpractice kami for a week. Then syempre, [sinamahan ng] dasal and paniniwala sa sarili, [at] tiwala sa kakampi,” the winning tandem shared. It’s easy to lose track of the game when distractions are abundant all around. The jeers from the onlookers, the shifting atmosphere, and the tension of the match are enough to sway an amateur’s heart. Yet Sierra and Dela Cruz remained devoted to the game, using their one week of practice and prior experiences to guide them.

Their game was filled with pressure, as the championship title was within their reach. Once they got their hands on the gold, the duo realized that all the pressure they faced before the game was worth it and a crucial part of their growth.

“Hindi lahat [ay] magsisimula sa madali, lahat ay mahihirapan muna bago maging madali,” Sierra reflected.

Now that the intramurals have finally come to a close, Sierra and Dela Cruz will return to their academic life. Aiming to be diligent students, the power duo seeks to grapple with the balance between the sport they love and the responsibilities they have for their future outside of it.

Words: Kurt Florence Talan

24/04/2025

𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐘𝐄𝐑 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐄 | 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐥𝐞: 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐭 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 ‘𝐑𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠’

To be rack and rolling doesn’t always mean that you’re lighting a table on fire. Sure, it’s one. But sometimes, the greatest players are those who simply play for the joy of the game.

From the College of Engineering, Hileina Mae Dela Cruz sticks her way beyond the circuits and makes her mark on the racks. If her life were a game of billiards, she would not be a player who shoots — rather, she will be the cue ball herself, constantly getting hit, always repositioning and still lead the play up to the pit of fun. “Gusto ko pong maalala [nila] sa akin ‘yung pagiging masayahin ko po habang nagpe-play…” she shared.

From the likes of Javelin Throw, Table Tennis, and Volleyball, you can say that you will find her drawn to different sports. Yet, the same spirit carried over surpassing the strikes she’s hitting. When the crowd goes quiet from their screams, we will see Hileina use the music within her to support her education.

“Sa ngayon po, two years na akong nagpapaaral sa sarili ko. Ginagamit ko po ‘yung aking banda, natugtog po kami sa kahit saan" the athlete said.

Like some, there is weight in all aspects of Dela Cruz’s life and each one demanded something from her. Hileina will start her day with a 7:00 a.m. class and go straight in between her gigs at night.

Still determined to pursue her studies, she finds time to pull out her phone to review for their quiz the next day. Because etched in her is a heart for a comfortable and peaceful life with her family.

“Naiisip ko kasi kapag mababa ‘yung score ko eh bakit pa ako nag-gi-gig? napapabayaan ko naman ‘yung pag-aaral ko," Dela Cruz expressed.

Then on, from the noise of the crowd, Dela Cruz has carried lightness that only passion can give. Through the racks and rolls, the laughter and the enjoyment serve as her truest wins of all — the fuel to fire the whole.

Words: Fhaye Diadem Ulat
Photo: John Arvin Baustista

24/04/2025

𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐘𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐄 | 𝐐𝐮𝐢𝐞𝐭 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐑𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐡𝐬

In a game where every angle matters, their duo moved in quiet harmony. With every sharp click and smooth roll, each shot is a step towards victory. Jan Carlo Umali and Mark Angelo Pantoja, students from College of Industrial Technology (CIT), showed what true teamwork looks like. From their focused approach and steady composure, they claimed their title as Champions in the Doubles Division in Billiards in the Intramurals of Laguna State Polytechnic University – Santa Cruz Campus (LSPU-SCC).

The dynamic billiards duo revealed that their triumph was no accident. Behind their seamless performance was a carefully crafted strategy. With their keen observation, studying their opponent’s every move, it gave them the edge, turning every shot into an opportunity to showcase their true potential. “Ang goal talaga namin ay basta makapagpa-shoot lang kami. At ‘yon, nag work naman siya, naka [score] naman kami,” Umali stated.

Even with the lead firmly in their hands, the duo also couldn’t escape the tension as their opponents made a near-perfect run-out, closing the gap. Yet this did not rattle their confidence. “Nanatili kaming kalmado, kapag kasi papanguhan mo ang kaba, walang mangyayari, masasayang lang [ang] lahat,” sharing their simple yet, powerful technique.

In the end, it wasn’t just their skills that carried Umali and Pantoja to victory. It was the calmness in their shots, the trust in each other, and the strategy that guided their game. As the final ball dropped, the room echoed with cheers and applause, they have left a mark on the table–a reminder of their teamwork that will inspire future players.

Words: Alexa Flores
Photo: John Arvin Baustista

24/04/2025

𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐘𝐄𝐑𝐒 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐄 | 𝐂𝐮𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐢: 𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐝𝐮𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐰𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐲

Was it a strike of fortune, or a fruit of hard work and prior experience? Shaira Mae Desamito and Majo De Leon used both their skills and trust in luck to give the College of Industrial Technology (CIT) another gold from the Women’s Doubles in Billiards. The duo came from entirely different paths, yet the route they’re taking managed to meet like crossroads and swiftly claim the championship title.

The start of De Leon’s journey was cued the moment her father, who was an expert player himself, taught her how to play billiards. At the age of 14, De Leon had herself exposed to the thrill of the game, never letting any defeats ruin her passion. With the Intramurals coming up, De Leon didn’t waste any time and took it as an opportunity to play. She encountered some rough paths during their college’s tryout, with her opponent being another skilled player. Yet despite that, the gold medalist managed to turn the tables. De Leon then spent a whole month preparing for the next competition – the campus Intramurals.

“Laging mag-isip bago sumabak sa laro,” the champion shared her winning mindset. She coupled this strategy with being focused at the present, and having faith in God to guide her.

Unlike her partner’s well-crafted path, Desamito’s journey on how she got here takes a more spontaneous one. “No preparation, tinawagan lang po ako [kasi] kulang [ng] player,” the player admitted. “Hindi ko talaga inakala na lalaro ako kasi reserved lang ako,” Desamito added. With that, the CIT player had to rely on her past experience and focus in the game. It was a big help that she’s been familiar with billiards since she was 18, and like her teammate, she was able to keep a keen eye on her opponent during the game.

Two athletes, two different stories, one victorious ending. In life, there is no 8-ball to dictate how the future will unfold. For De Leon, her strong opponents made it hazy to predict her win. While Desamito never thought she'd find herself competing in the Intramurals. But it’s never the unexpected events or uncertainties that determines an outcome – rather, it is our ability to adapt and make the most out of them that allows us to write, or even rewrite, the future in our favor.

Words: Jiellianne Oliva
Photos: John Arvin Bautista

24/04/2025

𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐘𝐄𝐑 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐄 | 𝐓𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐓𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐬: 𝐒𝐮𝐥𝐢𝐭’𝐬 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐢𝐧 𝐓𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐧𝐧𝐢𝐬

Every great story has that moment—the goal feels unreachable, the plot starts to fall apart, and the ending is nowhere in sight. Stephanie Sam C. Sulit, a student from College of Industrial Technology (CIT), found herself living that very moment. Two sets down with no victories to hold onto. The odds were against her and it seemed like all hope was lost.

But what followed was a plot twist even she didn't see coming: a head-turning comeback that earned her the championship title in Table Tennis Singles B Division during the Intramurals at Laguna State Polytechnic University – Sta. Cruz Campus (LSPU-SCC).

"Nu'ng nag-start na 'yung set 1, mas nakakalamang [‘yung kalaban ko]. Feeling ko wala na, talo na," she stated, already bracing what lies ahead. But just when doubt began to take over, her teammates didn't let her give up. Their cheers and presence were enough to motivate her to push through.

“Focus lang sa goal,” Sulit revealed as her secret to victory, refusing to be discouraged– not letting the scoreboard and opponent’s experience in past tournaments shake her confidence. “Kaya pa 'to. Wala namang natatapos sa dalawang set lang,” she said, reminding herself that it’s never over until the final point is played.

She walked into the games expecting a win in Doubles, and a loss in Singles Division, but the game had a different story to tell. Ironically, it was in singles where she found her rhythm.

Sulit’s journey in table tennis began in elementary school, she was recruited to join the team simply because there weren’t enough players. From the moment she picked up the paddle, she knew this would be her first true love in sports. But eventually hitting a pause after reaching provincial meet in elementary, like a chapter closing, until college gave her the chance to pick up where she left off.

She dedicates her win to the people who stood by her through every challenge– her family, friends, coaches, and teammates, who supported her every step of the way. Though absent in the crowd, she felt their presence just the same. She also shared that her next goal is to train harder for the upcoming Intercampus, “Hangga’t kaya kong i-represent [ang] LSPU sa table tennis, gagawin ko,” she expressed, determined to pour her all and making each moment count.

Sulit’s rise from the brink of defeat to champion serves as a reminder that no matter how tough the challenge is, there’s always room for one last fight. Therefore, we must stay optimistic and keep on fighting until the end – be it in sports or our ambitions.

Words: Alexa Flores
Photo: Jonna Anggay

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