The Gold Nuggets

20/01/2025

14/01/2025

𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐚𝐝𝐞?
By: Yhara Nicole Q. Hambre

MATATAG curriculum feels like a double-edged sword. On one hand, it offers the promise of change. Will this reform truly fix the deep-rooted issues of our education system, or will it just be another good idea lost in poor ex*****on?

The idea behind MATATAG is admirable. Skills like literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking are steps we desperately need. I’ve sat in classrooms where lessons feel rushed, where understanding is sacrificed for the sake of covering every topic. By reducing the burden of overloaded lessons, MATATAG could help us finally learn, not just memorize.

But education is not just about content—it’s about delivery. Will teachers, many of whom are already stretched thin, be given the training and support they need to implement this curriculum effectively?

Without proper investments in training and resources, MATATAG risks being a beautiful concept on paper, with little impact in reality.
Still, I can’t ignore the fears. Will these promises reach students in far-flung areas where classrooms are crumbling and books are scarce? Change is scary, but staying stuck is scarier.

I choose to believe in the potential of the MATATAG curriculum. But belief isn’t enough—it’s up to our leaders, teachers, and communities to ensure this reform succeeds. Education is the most powerful tool we have to change our lives and our nation. If MATATAG truly delivers, it could be the bold step forward we’ve been waiting for. Let’s not waste this chance.

14/01/2025

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐉𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞
By: Yhara Nicole Q. Hambre

And the cycle continues.

The 2022 race between Leni Robredo and Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. was a wake-up call. As voters head to the polls this 2025, the question is: Will we learn from the previous election, or will we let the show continue?

A playground, a circus, where the loudest clowns and the greediest hands fight for the spotlight, leaving the real needs of the country trampled underfoot.

For them, public service isn’t a responsibility, it’s a trophy. And the voters? Pawns.

“Public servants”—wildcards with no strategy, no principles, and no real concern to the people. We’re no longer watching an election; we’re witnessing a shameless competition of celebrities with no qualifications now strutting around as if their screen time translates to governance skills. Business tycoons are throwing cash around like confetti, not to empower the poor but to buy loyalty and votes.
And while they hand out other card tricks, the real issues—education, healthcare, corruption—are shuffled to the bottom of the deck.

Democracy isn’t a card game and we shouldn’t let jokers take the throne.

14/01/2025

𝐓𝐰𝐢𝐧 𝐂𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬: 𝐍𝐚𝐩𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐨 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐃𝐨𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐥𝐞
By: Sam Christian M. Acosta

Mina de Oro Catholic Schools’ very own twin basketball phenoms, Ezrael and Ezekiel
Napolitano, turned the 2024 Intramurals basketball competition into a stage of sibling rivalry, hoops drama, and heart-pounding action, resulting into a double championship finale that cemented their names as legends in the league.
The Green team’s captain, Ezekiel, and the Yellow team’s floor general, Ezrael, squared off in an electrifying final that had crowds roaring until the buzzer. In a twist of fate and some logistical hurdles, the Green squad eked out a nail-biting 86-84 victory, crowning both teams champions.

The planned rematch to capitalize on Yellow’s twice-to-beat advantage was scrapped
due to time constraints, declaring both teams co-champions, a poetic end to a battle of equals.
“Ayos lang yung naging laro. Expected na naming na mananalo kami. Kaya sana ilaban pero natalo pa rin,” said Ezrael, who fought hard until the timer buzzes.

Ezekiel snagged the Season and Finals MVP bacons, proving his mettle in the biggest
moments. “Masaya ako dahil nakabawi pa rin kami sa last quarter,” he shared. “Nagagalak din ako kasi nakuha ko ang Season at Finals’ MVP.”

The Napolitano twins, hailing from Barangay Villareal, grew up with basketball coursing through their veins. Their backyard served as their first court, and sibling battles were the norm, sharpening their skills and rivalry. Off the hardwood, Ezrael and Ezekiel are as tight as brothers can be, but their competitive spirits have always fueled their success. They’ve been each other’s greatest rivals and biggest supporters.

The twin cagers represent more than just basketball prowess, they’re also a symbol of
perseverance, unity, and the power of sibling bonds. One court, two brothers, and double glory. The Intramurals 2024 may have wrapped up, but the twins’ legacy has just begun.

14/01/2025

"𝐀 𝐓𝐚𝐩𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐔𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐬"

Clergy, Laity, and the faithful celebrate the parish Eucharistic congress, to showcase and glorify our Lord in the Blessed Eucharist at Mina De Oro Catholic School Inc. On the Fifth of October, Year 2024.

The First Parish Eucharistic Congress celebrates the 18th Anniversary of Hapag ng Pamilyang Mindoreño, highlighting not only the essence of The HPM theme but also the importance of the Blessed Sacrament.
The program started off with a solemn prayer, followed by some unfreezers. It continues as two pious women give inspirational stories showcasing how great Our God is.
The participants were grouped into 9, the usherettes guided them to go to their designated rooms. They had group activities that reflected the significance of being a Catholic member, Speakers discussed the reminders needed, when attending and after the Holy mass.
After having Lunch, participants are gathered in the Church while the Basic Important Instructions and Worship Procedures for the Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan are discussed by Rev. Fr. Joseph M. Boongaling.

The Liturgy is the center of the Christian life, the summit and the center of grace, it gives the glory of God, sanctifies the people, and is the way of unity. The importance of the spirit having a complete, mindful, and active involvement of the faithful rests, is the main teaching of Sacrosanctum Concilium no. 14 (Vatican II). The Parish Eucharistic Congress ended with Holy Mass.

By: Marianne Artillaga
photo credits: Holy Family Parish

14/01/2025

𝐇𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐞𝐧 𝐑𝐡𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐦𝐬: 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐛𝐞𝐚𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐚𝐧 𝐄𝐧𝐢𝐠𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲
By: Jamilla Arwen C. Ilagan

Each town has a different story, and its heart of culture and tradition lies in the festivals that mold its vast history. Festivities, vibrancy, and celebrations are living proof of the grand tapestry that “the greatness of culture can be found in its festivals". Here in our municipality, Pakapya Agtike is a testament that festivals are not just a mere celebration but also a tradition that binds our community and allows us to look back and be grateful for the bounty harvest. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s embark on this journey to discover the rich heritage of Socorro, shown through the vibrant colors and rhythm that make each Pakapya Agtike an experience of the ages!

A celebration that resembles the native Tadyawan Mangyan Thanksgiving ritual praising the Almightyfor bountiful harvests.” This perfectly describes what the annual Pakapya Agtike festival looks like. It serves as a platform for Socorreños to look back and express their diverse tradition while honoring the Mangyan tribe’s representation, and fostering a moment of pride within the community. One of the festival’s highlights is the street dance and in-place competition, which tells stories that unfold and display the diligent work of farmers for Socorro to see. Elaborately adorned costumes with lively and upbeat music captivate locals and visitors making them feel what a festival truly looks like. From June to the 25th of July, the preparation takes almost a whole month to put on a show and performances that symbolize harmony and togetherness.

And, being a part of the crowd at this kind of event would not just give you a chance to experience a festivity to remember, but rather, witness a united community with a shared and valued identity that shows what a true local of Socorro should embody. It’s more than a celebration of tradition and diverseness, Pakapya Agtike takes on an integral part in contributing to the town’s cultural legacy and imprints itself into the hearts of all locals.

𝐈𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐞 𝐂𝐫𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐭𝐬: Labedo Photography

14/01/2025

𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗦𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝗟𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗟𝗮𝘇𝗮𝗿𝗼 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺

On December 22, 2024, the spirit of Christmas came alive in Zones I and II of Socorro through the Listang Lazaro Outreach Program. Teachers and student volunteers from Mina De Oro Catholic High School, Inc. (MDOCS) spearheaded the initiative, providing assistance to families in preparation for the Christmas festivities.

Food donations were given to selected families, allowing them to enjoy a festive holiday meal despite economic challenges. Beyond the material donations, volunteers also shared messages of hope, unity, and the importance of giving—core values of the Christmas season.

The joint efforts of the faculty, staff, and students made the event a success as they tirelessly prepared and distributed the donations. Residents of Zones I and II expressed deep gratitude for the outreach, with many noting how the program significantly brightened their Christmas celebration. They also emphasized the program’s role in strengthening the bonds within the community and fostering a sense of togetherness during the holiday season.

The 2024 Listang Lazaro Outreach Program successfully brought much-needed joy and kindness to the community of Socorro, making the Christmas season a truly special and memorable one for many families.

By Angela Verdadero

14/01/2025

𝐀𝐕𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐝𝐲 𝐬𝐲𝐧𝐨𝐝𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐚𝐭 𝐂𝐄𝐀𝐏 𝐑𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐕 𝐀𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐲

Held in a spirit of unity and collaboration, the Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan Parochial Schools (AVCPS) Central Student Council (CSC) took part in the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) IV Regional Convention, with the empowering theme, “Pilgrims and Agents of Hope: Embracing Synodality”, at Rogationist College in Silang, Cavite, October 18, 2024.
The event brought together more than one thousand educators, alumni, and student leaders from 101 catholic schools in the different dioceses across Region IV A and B to deepen their commitment to quality catholic education and community service.
The assembly started with a eucharistic celebration presided over by Most Rev. Reynaldo G. Evangelista. Bishop Rey’s inspiring guidance has fostered a community with a shared mission.
It is then followed by a meaningful opening commencement featuring the Welcome Remarks given by Rev. Fr. Wesley Taguibao, Rector and President of Rogationist College; and a Welcoming Address and Overview delivered by Sr. Lucia Mojica, Regional Trustee. “My favorite assignment is you make a new friend,” said Sister Lucia, inspiring attendees to forge new friendships with other dioceses.
The convention served as a platform to reflect on synodality with the help of the various key addresses delivered by Mr. Allan Arellano, the Executive Director of the CEAP; and Fr. Daniel Franklin Pilario, C.M. of Adamson University. Mr. Arellano emphasized the association’s commitment to serving the community with grace and bringing glory to God. On the other hand, Fr. Pilario called for Catholic schools to prioritize inclusivity and dialogue, in alignment with Pope Francis’ vision for education.
As the event nearly comes to an end, the association asked for insights from the crowd. Along with other volunteers, AVCPS representative, Sam Christian M. Acosta, shared the AVCPS youth leaders’ perception about the question “What are we being called to do as Catholics Schools about the issues presented earlier?”. “Let ourselves be the source of hope for everyone,” Acosta answered, believing that as a leader, you have the power to be the voice for those who cannot speak and to lead others, embracing the spirit of synodality.

By: Sam Christian M. Acosta

14/01/2025

“𝐇𝐄𝐑 𝐂𝐇𝐎𝐈𝐂𝐄, 𝐇𝐄𝐑 𝐕𝐎𝐈𝐂𝐄”
By: Marchie P. Mondragon

In a remote corner of Oriental Mindoro, where the dry earth reflects the hardship of life, a story of hope emerges, the story of Mindoreñang Mangyan. It’s not just any story; it’s a miracle, a flight from poverty to success, a testament that a simple dream can change the world.

Before she became a renowned vlogger, Mindoreñang Mangyan was a teacher, a mother striving for her family. In her small hut, she not only cared for her children but also nurtured her community through her cooking. Her kitchen became a center of hope, where delicious dishes brought comfort and joy, not just to her family but also to her fellow Mangyan indigenous people. The aroma of her cooking was a symbol of love and care.

Her teaching experience laid the foundation for her vlogging career. Her ability to teach and share knowledge became key to her online success. Her videos not only showcase her culinary skills but also reveal her heart – a heart full of resilience, determination, and love for her fellow human beings. Her words, like stars in a dark sky, shine brightly at every moment, inspiring and illuminating those who watch. Her smile, a warm sun that melts away the cold, brings comfort to the hearts of those in need.

As part of her mission, she never hesitated to share food and supplies with her fellow
Mangyan indigenous people. She is more than a vlogger; she is an inspiration, a guide for the lost, a beacon for those traveling in the dark. She is a mother, a teacher, and a hero of her community.

Mindoreñang Mangyan’s voice,is once a quiet whisper in a remote corner of Mindoro, has become a resounding call of hope across the globe. Her choice to share her story, her recipes, her heart, has created a ripple effect of inspiration, proving the immense power of a single voice to ignite change. Let her story be a reminder that your voice matters, your choices matter, and your story deserves to be heard.

14/01/2025

𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗮𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗞𝗶𝗱: 𝗟𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗹𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗕𝗶𝗴𝗴𝗲𝗿 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆𝘀
By: Keziah Divine S. Gutierrez

Dear Diary,
I always wonder, why do I keep on stumbling when playing outside when I was a kid? Why do I keep on tripping on something that cause me to fall on the ground? And why do I keep having bruises while I was just having fun? I remember, it was one fine afternoon, for the first time I accidentally tripped on a rock while running from my playmates. It bled, I got scared and cried my way home to my mother. It was again a fine afternoon, I tripped again but it was for the hundred time, I didn’t cry; instead, I just wipe the dirt in my wound and continue running as if nothing happened.

Then I realized, our clumsiness when we were younger is maybe a way for us to realize that life doesn’t just revolve on happy moments. Sometimes problems strike us unexpectedly. The first time we encounter struggles in life, we might feel that we are on the edge of a cliff, just one step from falling. We seek for people to catch us and offer their hands to save us from danger— away from sorrow. But as we got used in tripping and tripping over, it became less painful. The wound doesn’t sting too much, it became bearable.

Dear Diary,
Why do we find it difficult to let go of something or someone? Is being alone really a big deal? When I was in elementary, it was the first day of classes, my parent drove me to school. At first, I am not comfortable of meeting new faces but since they were by my side, I could feel that I have a back to hide and rely on. But when we reached the room, they let go of my hand and walked away from me while I was desperately calling for their names. I’ve seen their shadows fade in the brightness of the light. I was left alone, my heart shattered, I never thought someone I cherish the most will leave me.
But maybe that particular experience enlightened me that in life, no one can stay forever aside from ourself. There will be a point where someone needs to walk away for us to learn to stand in our own feet. Sometimes being alone gives us a room to grow and discover ourself.

Dear Diary,
Getting what we want is probably what we always wished for. But does that mean things will work the way we planned it to be? When I was a kid, I used to go with my mom in the supermarket, not just to help her carry the grocery, it is with the ulterior motive to get what the snacks I want. With just a smile and cute charm, I instantly get it. But when I got older, things changed. Now, when I go to supermarket, I can’t just sneak my favorite snacks in the basket even if I throw tantrums in the store, my mom wouldn’t just let me have those.

That struck me that maybe the refusal is a sign that in life we will face a lot of rejections. In reality, we don’t have a genie to grant all our wishes, instead we have our own hands and perseverance that will make things work for us.

Dear Diary,
Have you ever experienced neglecting someone or something because of the thought that it will never be gone? And have you ever felt the guilt of ignoring things that once became special to us because we’ve gotten used to its presence? I have.
Back then, I have this little teddy that became my companion and sleeping buddy. I never let it out of my sight. But as time passes, I grew up and my fondness of the teddy gradually faded. The teddy that used to be my sidekick became a teddy that is set aside, forgotten and unloved. I always thought it will stay in the box where I left it, but as others say, nothing stays forever. I lose that very precious thing of mine with an unknown reason but it left me a feeling of regret.

The reality then dawned on me. There’s a bittersweet truth about life; we overlook the most precious things, only realizing their value once they’re gone.

P.S.
“Life is a never-ending cycle of learning” Even the little things unexpectedly give meaningful takeaways and let us grasps that in life:
We might stumble but not crumble, we let go but we grow, we might be rejected but we will be redirected and we regret but we never forget.

To be continued………..

14/01/2025

𝐀𝐕𝐂𝐏𝐒 𝐂𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐬 𝟕𝐭𝐡 𝐉𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞 𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐙𝐚𝐦𝐛𝐨𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐚 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞𝐝𝐲

CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro – The Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan Parochial Schools (AVCPS) has announced the cancellation of its 7th annual jamborette, scheduled for January 23-25, 2025, at Naujan Academy. The decision follows a tragic incident at the 2024 citywide Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) jamborette in Zamboanga City, which resulted in the deaths of three scouts and injuries to eleven others due to electrocution.
AVCPS Superintendent Rev. Fr. Richard Rodriguez issued a memorandum on December 27, 2024, formally announcing the cancellation. The decision aligns with a temporary moratorium on outdoor activities issued by the BSP National Office through Memorandum No. 091, s. 2024, which takes effect on January 1, 2025. This moratorium was directly prompted by the Zamboanga City tragedy.
While the AVCPS initially considered postponing the jamborette, Fr. Rodriguez’s memorandum explained that rescheduling proved impractical due to a packed calendar of activities from February to April. Even if the BSP’s moratorium is lifted, finding a suitable alternative date within that timeframe would be challenging.
The AVCPS emphasized that the safety and well-being of its scout members are paramount. The memorandum encouraged schools to redirect their efforts towards other meaningful activities that uphold the core values and spirit of scouting.
The cancellation has been met with mixed reactions from scout leaders and participants. Some expressed disappointment, having already invested time and effort in preparations for the event.
“We are disappointed because we had already made plans, prepared our minds and hearts, and then, unexpectedly, the plans were disrupted,” said Mr. Mark del Mundo, a scoutmaster from Mina De Oro Catholic School Inc. (MDOCS). “Nevertheless, we must accept this with an open heart because the safety of the students and the peace of mind of the parents are still more important.”
Yhara Hambre, a troop leader also from MDOCS, shared a similar sentiment. “It’s a pity, because this would have been our last jamborette, and it’s my first time being a troop leader. We had already made preparations, so it’s really unfortunate.”
The cancellation underscores the importance of safety protocols in scouting activities and highlights the ripple effect of the Zamboanga City incident on scouting events nationwide. The AVCPS’s decision prioritizes the safety of its young scouts and reflects a commitment to responsible scouting practices.

By: Carl Elison B. Evangelista