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The Oculus

The Official English Student Publication of Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School We are The Oculus. We are the eye of the Eagle. Join our movement.

An Eye for Reportage

The Oculus Publications is the official English-language student publication of the Ateneo de Zamboanga University - Senior High School. In its first year of existence, The Oculus was already declared the 2017 Campus Magazine of the Year by the School Press Advisers Movement, Inc. at the organization's 11th National Press Conference held on September 2017 at Boracay, Aklan. C

oming into the new school year, The Oculus aims to finally get up to full speed and to become the regional journalistic powerhouse it aspires to be. We write with purpose.

03/07/2025

HEADLINES IN MOTION | Make way for queens and kings of the court

The first day of the Orientation Seminar and Animo 2025 had just commenced, on the 23rd of June 2025, Senior High students of the Ateneo De Zamboanga University, both Grade 11 and 12 students dominated the platforms with their outstanding costumes, and lured the audience in with their heartfelt, yet catchy song.

On June 23rd, we interviewed performers from the Ace’s Aura and Echoes of the Court regarding their creative process on song compositions and eye-catching costumes.

Let us take a look at their creative process as they share their journey with us!

Caption by Amanda Tish Mateo
Broadcasted by Amanda Tish Mateo
Filmed by Jazzmin Mas and Mariam Kiman
Edited by Mariam Kiman

30/06/2025

LOOK | AdZU-SHS starts AY 25–26 with Mass of the Holy Spirit, Majlis

“Of course it begins today with this Mass, but it will not end with this Mass," echoed the Ateneo de Zamboanga Senior High School (AdZU-SHS) university church, as Rev. Fr. Jerome Emmanuel Guevara, SJ, continued the homily in the first Mass of Academic Year (AY) 2025–2026.

Presided over by Fr. Jem and organized by the Campus Ministry Office, the Mass united the student body in a spirit of unity and prayer. Simultaneously, the AdZU-SHS Muslim community observed the Majlis led by Al-Johan Ilacad, focusing on reflection, spiritual teaching, and reaffirmation of Islamic values.

During the Mass, the school's new and continuing administrators, department chairs, and office heads were blessed as initiated by Fr. Jem, with students following with their hands extended.

"The Holy Spirit will guide us in our desires," Fr. Jem proclaimed, "Today is only the beginning of the Holy Spirit coming into us. Every single day, starting today for the rest of this school year, 2025 to 2026, you will experience the Holy Spirit growing with us."

Both celebrations—the Catholic Mass and the Islamic Majlis—reflected the school's commitment to honoring faith traditions while fostering shared values of compassion, leadership, and service. As the new school year begins, the message is clear: with the Spirit guiding their journey, the AdZU-SHS community moves forward.

Held at the start of every academic year to start the AY, the community gathered for the Mass of the Holy Spirit on June 30, 2025.

Caption by Glyka Gonzales
Photos by Alexie John Perez
Layout by Xyrus Pioquinto

30/06/2025

NOTICE | First General Assembly will be held tomorrow, July 1, 2025

The assembly, to be conducted through the public address (PA) system, will start at 7:30 AM. To ensure an assembly without a hitch, students are expected to comply with the following reminders:

First, all Grades 11 and 12 students must be in their classroom before 7:30 AM.

Second, all Grade 12 students must be in their full school uniform, including their school ID. Grade 11 students are allowed to wear civilian attire until August 4, 2025, so long as they are with their school ID.

Lastly, tomorrow’s schedule will have shortened classes, with periods lasting an hour and 15 minutes. Nonetheless, the subjects for tomorrow’s class will follow the Tuesday schedule. Following this, Grade 11 students will be dismissed at 3:00 PM, while Grade 12 students will be dismissed at 4:15 PM.

Additionally, students are encouraged to have their student handbooks to guide them throughout the assembly.

29/06/2025

IN ACTION | R-IX rallies under pressure, clinches bronze in CEAP table tennis
Written by Michael Rickmond Tan

Hard-fought battles were waged on the courts as the Region IX athletes managed to edge out opposing regions for a third place finish at the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) Mindanao tournament at Robinsons, General Santos City, June 4-6, 2025.

Facing national-level players while lacking practice as a team, the Zamboangueño athletes were plagued with challenges—bringing them under significant pressure during the tournament. To add insult to injury, an early loss against the eventual 1st runner-ups, CARAGA sparked doubt in the Region IX’s road to success.

“It was nerve-wracking to play against players with national-level skills, every strategy we employed they easily countered,” Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School (AdZU-SHS) athlete, Mary Lovin Serneo admitted.

Following this was a thrilling nail-biter of a match against the Region XII, with both teams proving to be evenly-matched, where the Zamboanga Peninsular athletes claimed a decision set, allowing the team to catch their breaths.

Peace turned to panic as the players lost out on a chance to continue their momentum after a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat against Davao, a team of athletes who recently competed in the Palarong Pambansa, and also the tournament’s eventual champions.

In the midst of challenging matches and games, the Region IX representatives gradually regained their composure and formed counter-strategies and set-up plays through observing the gameplay of their opponents.

The strategies and plays proved effective as going into their final game against Region X, solace was found as they triumphed over their opponents, clinching the bronze medal for the tournament.

Concluding the tournament, the athletes take pride in their outcome, noting that their podium finish was something they did not expect.

“We didn’t expect that we would take the bronze medal, since we expected strong players from different regions,” noted Serneo.

As the athletes hang their medals, they plan to continue steadfast in practicing and training, hoping for a gold medal finish in the next CEAP.

Photos from the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) Mindanao
Layout by Xyrus Pioquinto

29/06/2025

IN ACTION | Region IX spikers battle for 3rd runner-up finish in CEAP Mindanao Games
Written by Ariana Lasola

The Region IX Secondary Boys Volleyball Team fought with determination and heart at the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) Mindanao Games 2025, clinching a 3rd runner-up finish after a four-day battle held from June 3–6 at Notre Dame of Dadiangas University (NDDU), General Santos City.

The team played a total of five games against strong contenders across Mindanao, while they faced tough opposition, the athletes showed their discipline, resilience, and the results of their training.

According to team member Paul Winrho Pelayo, the fighters delivered a strong performance, with scores that were consistently close to their opponents, “We applied all the trainings and the things that were taught,” he shared.

Among the teams they faced, the reigning champions and the defending silver medalists proved to be their toughest opponents, Pelayo noted that their performances showcased experience and potential, pushing Region IX to give their best on the court and despite falling short, the team gained valuable lessons from those high-pressure matches.

One of Region IX’s most memorable games was a close loss to the defending champions, leaving a lasting mark on the team, “That match taught us that we could achieve dreams and stages that once seemed impossible. You will, when you believe,” Pelayo said.

Even during moments of exhaustion and defeat, the team stayed motivated until the very last day of the event, they carried with them the thought of every person who contributed to their campaign—coaches, teammates, and supporters alike, their grit and unity helped them maintain high morale despite the challenges.

Representing Region IX, the team included players from different schools across the peninsula, each bringing their own strengths and stories—including one from Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School (AdZU-SHS). While nerves were natural at the start, the experience quickly turned into a source of pride and growth for the whole squad.

Looking ahead, the team hopes to deepen their on-court connection and sharpen their mindset for future competitions. While natural talent was evident, they believe continuous growth and teamwork are the real keys to success.

Reflecting on the journey, the players emphasized that their sacrifices were not in vain. “We may not have won the title, but we gave our 101% to bring pride to Region IX. To all aspiring athletes—always believe in yourself. You will, when you believe.”

Photos by Breanna Elisha Damsik
Layout by Xyrus Pioquinto

29/06/2025

IN ACTION | Region IX’s volleyball pride takes 2nd runner-up in CEAP Mindanao Games 2025
Written by Ariana Lasola

Fighting through four intense matches, the Region IX Secondary Girls Volleyball Team clinched a 2nd runner-up finish at the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) Mindanao Games 2025, held from June 3-6 at Notre Dame of Dadiangas University (NDDU), General Santos City.

The fighters from Peninsula faced off against four competitive regions—Region X, Region XII, Region XI, and Region XIII wherein they opened strong with a win over Region 10 before encountering losses against Region XII and Region XI, who proved to be among the strongest contenders of the tournament.

The final match against Region XIII became the tournament highlight for Region IX, though they fell short in three sets, the team displayed remarkable tenacity, even claiming the second set after an inspired performance.

Despite being outsized, they played with evident heart, executing set plays and staying composed under pressure, “We weren’t expecting to get a win against them since they were blessed with tall players,” shared Breanna Elisha Damsik, one of two representatives from Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School (AdZU-SHS), “But we fought hard, celebrated every point, and still had fun. It was our eagerness and fighting spirit that made that game stand out.”

Each game showcased the warriors from the West’s commitment to applying their training and strategies, with players consistently communicating and adjusting their plays mid-match.

While the goal was to reach the championship round, Region IX celebrated their third-place finish with pride, the team considered the result a reflection of not only their growth, but also of the hard work put in throughout their preparations.

The experience itself was a valuable step forward.

Region IX’s strength throughout the tournament lay in their unity, determination, and ability to push forward in challenging moments, their focus and drive were evident in every match, especially when bouncing back from early setbacks or facing taller and more experienced opponents.

Though the team included players from different schools across the region, their chemistry stood out, they rallied behind one another, stayed positive, and played with purpose, making their podium finish all the more meaningful.

As they return home with the CEAP Mindanao Games behind them, the spikers from ZamPen look ahead with confidence and a renewed commitment to training, their sights now set on improving further and coming back stronger in future tournaments.

Photos by Paul Winrho Pelayo
Layout by Xyrus Pioquinto

28/06/2025

IN ACTION | Region IX clinches 1st Runner-Up spot in CEAP Mindanao football with hard-fought 3–1 finish
Written by Ethan Lawrence Barredo

Region IX emerged as a formidable force in the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) Mindanao 2025 with their hard-earned 1st runner-up finish in boys’ secondary football held at Notre Dame of Dadiangas in General Santos City from June 2–6, 2025.

Captain Liam Lanuza and Krystof Zye Alvarez led the Zamboangueños in the tournament, providing the team with leadership and offensive drive, becoming the team’s leading scorers and consistently putting pressure on their defenders, dribbling and out-pacing them in every play.

The men battled in a round-robin format, defeating Region X (2–1), Region XII (3–1), and Region XIII by default, with a heartbreaking 0–1 loss to Region XI, capping their win-loss record 3-1 resulting in their 1st runner-up finish.

Zamboanga opened their campaign against Region X (Northern Mindanao), a rematch of last years’ shared title that turned into a bruising battle on the defensive end with Zamboanga scoring their two goals in the second half before two injuries that allowed Xavier to respond with a goal of their own, despite the injuries, the boys stood firm, sealing the game a with 2-1 win.

They then faced Region XI (Davao) in a hard fought defensive match-up that ended in a 0-1 loss, after a foul inside the box in the final minutes which awarded Davao with a penalty that ultimately cost them the match—”That loss cost us the championship,” Alvarez later reflected.

Bouncing back and fueled with determination, the men faced off against Region XII (SOCCSKSARGEN) in their third match, with the boys applying pressure in the offensive end with their passing and off-ball movements, the fighters of Region IX managed to secure the win 3-1—“After our loss against Region 11 we made some adjustments that helped us to win our next game,” Aaron Jaesh Mandin said.

Their last match was ruled a default over Region XIII (CARAGA), ending their campaign with a 3–1 record, narrowly placing as 1st runner-up due to goal difference despite matching Davao in points.

"Our goal for the next CEAP Region IX Football team is to come back stronger, beat every opponent and we will bring back the title," says Vhenzane Gabriel Carigara with his head held high and eyes set for the future.

With their striking performance in this year’s CEAP Mindanao Games, the representatives of Zamboanga have reasserted themselves as a rising powerhouse in the football fields of Mindanao as their relentless drive in the field and standout performances set the stage for a promising run in the future.

Photos by Keiran Ramirez
Layout by Marcus Pepito

28/06/2025

IN ACTION | One team, one breakthrough
Region IX’s rise through trust and teamwork
Written by Ariana Lasola

Pressure. Nerves. Doubt. Those were the first things that greeted the Region IX Secondary Girls Basketball Team when they stepped onto the courts of Notre Dame of Dadiangas-IBED Lagao in General Santos City from June 2-7. But by the time the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) Mindanao Games 2025 came to a close, they had transformed those early jitters into something far greater, a finals finish that showcased the heart, grit, and growth of a team that never gave up.

“Our emotions were high,” said Farliah Asshleen Jalilul, the sole representative from Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School (AdZU-SHS), “but we learned to manage our feelings, support one another, and stay focused on our goal.”

Their growth didn’t happen instantly. With players coming from different schools and backgrounds, building chemistry took time. Early on, emotions sometimes got the better of them. But through every match, they learned to steady themselves, communicate better, and rely on one another. They fought through emotions, mistakes, and strong opponents—not with frustration, but with unity.

That shift in mindset became the team’s secret weapon. What started as a group of athletes figuring each other out became a tightly knit unit that adapted on the fly. From rehearsed set plays to on-court improvisations, Region IX wasn’t afraid to think on their feet. When their strategies didn’t work against their opponents, they adjusted. “We relied more on our instincts, that made us unpredictable, and stronger,” shared Jalilul.

Their most unforgettable match wasn’t the one that secured their place in the finals—it was the first. It was there, during the opening game, that the spark was lit. The moment when their nerves gave way to trust, and the team began to believe in each other. Every cheer from the bench, every moment of support on and off the court, stitched them together. “It wasn’t just a game,” said Jalilul. “It marked the beginning of our bond.”

While the Zamboangueñas didn’t take home the gold, their run to the finals was anything but a loss. It was proof of how far belief, hard work, and chemistry can take a team. “Making it that far showed how much we’ve grown,” Jalilul reflected. “We weren’t perfect—but we were committed, and we trusted each other.”

Even more inspiring was how they carried each other through the tournament. Whenever tension rose or fatigue set in, the girls reminded each other why they were there, not just to win, but to grow. The team understood that success isn’t just measured by trophies, but by the kind of bond you carry off the court.

Representing Region IX, the team sent a powerful message to future players: You don’t have to be perfect. “This was a breakthrough experience,” said Jalilul. “It wasn’t just about playing. It was where we grew into the team we didn’t even know we could be.”

As they head home, the girls of Zamboanga Peninsula carry something more enduring than medals: lessons in confidence, teamwork, and trust. Their journey reminds everyone that some of the strongest victories happen not at the buzzer, but in the moments when a team chooses to believe in each other.

Photos by ICAS Tetuan Girls Basketball Team
Layout by Marcus Pepito

28/06/2025

IN ACTION | Region IX Badminton Boys brings home bronze at CEAP Mindanao Games 2025
Written by Ariana Lasola

Region IX’s Secondary Boys Badminton team brought home a 2nd runner-up finish in this year’s CEAP Mindanao Games 2025, held from June 2-6, 2025 at Notre Dame of Dadiangas University (NDDU) in General Santos City.

Composed of athletes from various clubs and schools across the region, the team overcame limited joint training sessions and logistical challenges to land a podium finish, according to Anthony Marric Mirasol, the lone representative from Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School (AdZU-SHS), their preparation involved sharpening individual skills within their own clubs before uniting as a team toward the end of the training period, “We practiced with our partners and with our desired lineup,” he shared.

Despite the short time to train together, the group stayed confident leading into the competition, drawing motivation from previous local tournament performances and their shared goal of representing Region IX with pride.

One of the tournament’s most defining moments came during the team’s match against Region XII (SOCCSKSARGEN)—a game that determined who would take home the silver, with the standings tied 1-1, Region IX’s fate rested on the final singles match, “Hearts were definitely shattered,” Mirasol recalled, “All of us knew his potential, but to this day, we still don’t know what held him back that match.”

While the team finished third overall, they left with a strong sense of determination, “We promised ourselves that we’ll be coming back stronger next year,” Mirasol added, he emphasized that the tournament taught him that success requires hard work and consistency, saying, “There’s no shortcut in life. You have to face hardships before achieving any success.”

More than just a competition, the games strengthened the team’s chemistry, the team described their bond with the words, “No man left behind,” and even after their own matches, the players continued to cheer for their college teammates, who went on to win the gold, the team also credited their captain Neal Rafael Agosila for helping manage lineups and making sure every player had a role in the tournament.

Looking ahead, the team aims to build on what they’ve learned, “We’re more than motivated to train and come back stronger,” Mirasol said, he pointed out that lineup planning and opponent analysis will be areas of focus for next year’s run, “Our top priority is to bag the gold medal, but we also want to enjoy and cherish the games with our teammates.”

With the experience behind them, the fighters from Zamboanga Peninsula is already looking ahead, according to the team, they are “more than motivated” to refine their skills, adjust strategies, and aim higher in next year’s tournament, “The goal is still gold,” they added, “but so is enjoying the journey with our teammates.”

Photo by VOX IBED Publication
Layout by Marcus Pepito

26/06/2025

IN ACTION | R9 secures 1st runner-up in CEAP swimming as Zamboangueñas deliver strong 14-medal finish
Written by Ethan Lawrence Barredo

Region 9 etched another feat in the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) Mindanao Games 2025 after claiming First Runner-Up in the girls’ secondary swimming held at LC5 Farm and Resort in General Santos City from June 2-6, 2025.

Representing Zamboanga Peninsula were Miliza Syla Tanginan and Riancel Rubio from Ateneo de Zamboanga University Senior High School (AdZU-SHS); Nor-Ayn Darkis, Zoe Beceril, and Elle Laping from Ateneo de Zamboanga University Junior High School (AdZU-JHS); Claeson Alvarez from Claret School of Zamboanga; and Zoe Ann Sierra from Immaculate Conception Archdiocesan School (ICAS) Tetuan Junior High School, led by coach Vincent Villanueva and assistant coach Ramil Tanginan.

Competing against four contending regions across Mindanao—Region 10 (Northern Mindanao), Region 11 (Davao), Region 12 (SOCCSKSARGEN), and Region 13 (Caraga)—the Zamboangueñas made waves with their strong performance in their individual and relay events.

Team Zamboanga managed to secure 14 medals in total—4 golds, 5 silvers and 5 bronze medals—a campaign that clinched them their overall 1st runner-up finish in the tournament.

Four swimmers in the girls’ team fuelled the team’s medal tally with individual medal wins, with Sierra leading the charge with her stroke executions and strong finishes bagging three gold medals, followed by Alvarez with three silvers and one bronze, while Darkis added a silver to the tally.

Tanginan also brought home an impressive collection with her relentless pace in the water, capturing one gold, one silver, and three bronze medals in her individual races.

Alvarez, Sierra, Tanginan and Darkis continued to shine with teamwork and powered through each lane, earning a 4x50 medley relay second place result, while in the 4x100 freestyle relay, the same roster closed out the race sealing a 3rd runner-up finish which cemented their pace as the overall 1st runner-up in girls’ secondary swimming.

“It’s not just about winning or losing—it’s about giving your best and playing with heart,” says Tanginan with her head held high as she looks forward to their battles in future tournaments.

With this remarkable showing, the representatives from Zamboanga have firmly announced its fierce return to elite competitions. Their strong relay performances and standout individual results set a solid foundation for their journey ahead.

Photo by Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) Mindanao Games 2025
Layout by Xyrus Pioquinto

26/06/2025

Facts Worth Sharing | Reflecting Towards a Fresh New Chapter in Life

The Amun Jadid is set to be on June 26, 2025— our brothers and sisters in Islam celebrate this day by acknowledging the roots of their heritage, religious practices, and the historical course of Islam.

It begins on the first day of Muharram, it stems from 622 AD— the year when prophet Muhammad’s transfer from Mecca to Medina. Within the country of the Philippines, this day is widely recognized by the Mindanao and Bangsamoro Region as a special occasion.

Amun Jadid is commemorated through sincere prayers, faith, and thorough reflection. The spirits it uplift are gratitude, renewal, peace, and hope. A time for cultural celebration and understanding of the Muslim faith, this holiday serves as a time for reflection and renewal towards something restored within Muslim brothers’ and sisters’ spirit.

May all of our brothers and sisters in Islam be blessed with happiness, blessings, and guidance.

Caption by Lichelle Brianna Biel
Illustration by Tiffany Ignao
Layout by Marcus Pepito

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An Eye for Reportage

The Oculus Publications is the official English-language student publication of the Ateneo de Zamboanga University - Senior High School.

In its first year of existence, The Oculus was already declared the 2017 Campus Magazine of the Year by the School Press Advisers Movement, Inc. at the organization’s 11th National Press Conference held on September 2017 at Boracay, Aklan. Coming into the new school year, The Oculus aims to finally get up to full speed and to become the regional journalistic powerhouse it aspires to be.

We are The Oculus. We are the eye of the eagle. We write with purpose. Join our movement.

The Oculus

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