TRIBUTE: The Echoes Within the Era of Empowerment
By Raj Canals and Jade Bartolome
With contributions of Tyra Lucero
June 24, 2025
TRIBUTE: The Echoes Within the Era of Empowerment
By Raj Canals and Jade Bartolome
With contributions of Tyra Lucero
June 24, 2025
E—a single letter that might seem ordinary, even meaningless. But it is the foundation for words that breathe life into our thoughts and emotions. Without E, echo won’t come into existence, leaving us no way to define the sounds that return, reminding us of voices once spoken, and of stories that still linger. Without E, we lose the word era—how we mark time, recognize change, and honor the moments that left a golden legacy. And most of all, without E, we lose the root of empowerment, the word that captures the courage to rise, to speak, and to stand for what is believed to be right.
Yes, E is just a letter. Yet, it carries the weight of a thousand meanings.
For the members of The Escolarian, their role carries even deeper significance. They serve as echoes—powerful voices that reflect the truth around us. They help shape a passionate and purposeful era, breaking the silence with their insights and igniting empowerment that enables stories to be told, voices to be recognized, and changes to begin. They are more than just writers; they are witnesses, storytellers, and bearers of change.
As another publication year comes to a close, let’s take a step back to revisit the memories, the shared experiences, and the lessons that continue to live within the hearts of the friends of E. Let’s reflect on the voices that dared to speak and the truths that echoed across pages.
Here’s to The Escolarian Publication Year 2024 – 2025, a year of storytelling, standing tall, and echoes that carried through time! A year marked by empowerment, the rise of a new era, and the courage it took to write it all down.
Mark Andrew V. Fulgencio (Editor-in-Chief and Radio Broadcasting Head)
Even before enrolling at CEIS, I began looking into their school organizations because I had been interested in joining clubs and organizations since elementary and junior high school. Upon browsing, The Escolarian did capture my attention dahil most updates and event coverages were coming from them. That's when I started to become extremely curious and driven myself into getting involved in that organization. I remember noong first day, I was excited to submit my applications to the organization, especially dahil nakita kong may community and privilege inside the organization. Until the campaign and examinations, hindi ko talaga tinigilan ang The E. What inspired me the most was the urge to try new things. Back in my former school, we didn’t have an official student publication, which motivated me to pursue writing. The Escolarian gave me something new to love and cherish, along with the people who guide and support it. I will always be grateful for the experiences it opened up for me.
I initially applied for Sci-Tech, but due to a last-minute realization, I switched to being a Sports writer dahil naging in-to-it ako sa sports. At that time, I wasn’t concerned about the workload that came with joining the organization, my main goal was simply to enjoy senior high school lang talaga. Beyond that, what also inspired me to join was a sense of self-responsibility. Yes, I had second thoughts about whether this was the right organization for me. But I remember during the submission of applications, it was raining, and I asked for a sign. Nakita ko si Sir Raymond walking down the corridor—and in that moment, I felt sure. That was when I truly committed and pushed to be part of The Escolarian.
Being friends with E is an honor, a memory I will always hold close to my heart. E did not just create a group of writers who write stories, it created its own story, together with its friends. It wasn’t just about articles and updates — it was about the experiences, the friendships formed, and the memories that mattered most. Kay E, matututo kang tumawa, makisalamuha, at higit sa lahat, kumilala ng pamilya.
Sa dami ng experiences ko with The E, I cannot really pinpoint it. Big event coverages were really memorable. Apart from that, countless meetings and seminars were also cherishable, as in! Especially, attending Inkblots 2025 was super unforgettable. Being officially part of The Escolarian’s Editorial Board was also one of the most memorable experiences in itself.
Pero sa dalawang taon kong pamamalagi sa The E, every bit and part of each experience was memorable. It was really never a dull moment with them. From socializing to writing, everything was picture-perfect and truly worth it.
Para sa akin, the best part of being in the Editorial Board is the chance to connect with others, socialize, and build real relationships. When you have a seat in the E.B., that’s where the foundation of teamwork truly begins. Hindi lang siya about positions; it’s about the bonds you form with the people around you. Alongside leadership, being part of the Editorial Board means working hand in hand with your team. And through the organization and the platform, mas lumalawak ‘yung pakikipagkapwa mo, and you get to meet more people — people you can connect with and share the values of E.
My message to the next batch of E’s Friends, to future acquaintances, just be yourself and love what you do. No matter what challenges come your way, keep going. Palaging magpakatatag at mahalin ang ginagawa, because that’s when you’ll truly feel the joy and value of your efforts. Always pray for everything, and no matter what happens, Sir Raymond and your Ates and Kuyas always got your back!
“PUSO — isang salita na may apat na letra, ngunit puno ng kahulugan at diwa. Huwag kalilimutan itong gamitin sa tama at sa katotohanan. Lagi’t lagi, para sa malayang pamamahayag, sa Diyos, at sa kaniyang bayan.”
Samantha C. Deray (Associate Editor and Chief Sci-Tech & Literary Editor)
I suppose it was seeing how my seniors excelled in being truth-bearers and my love for writing that inspired me to become a friend of E, despite not having prior experience with journalism during my former years in the academe.
Being a Friend of E exceeds the responsibility of being a journalist. Of course, not forgetting what I must do as a watchdog of the events within and outside of the campus — as a member, there also exists a duty to maintain and expand the bonds created within E’s family.
Finding out that I was chosen as a part of The Escolarian’s Editorial Board is one core memory I will definitely not be able to erase in my brain’s hippocampus. The nervousness felt just having to step into the AVR with the former Editorial Board surrounding us was something else. I had to recall beforehand whether I even committed an offense that might have angered them, haha! Looking back, the experience felt gnarly!
Being able to plan significant events, such as the flow of the miting-de-avance Sipat-lawin, is one great fragment of the many memories and responsibilities of being a part of The Editorial Board. The tiredness you would feel right after is immediate, however, the success of one task gives this big sense of fulfillment.
Make sure that you are really passionate about joining The Escolarian. You need not be a genius, unlike what others think. Good writing skills are a bonus, but generally, you just need to have the drive to keep being a truth-bearer. The duties assigned to each member of the organization is no joke, it can be quite draining especially if you cannot manage your time wisely, but know that you are an important piece in the puzzle. Do not take the membership as simply a means to brag.
This journey toward journalistic excellence with E has been fun. The laughter during mini get-togethers, grammatical mistakes in written works, and sleepless nights allotted for finishing duties will forever have a special place within my heart. Surely this burning passion of ours will not easily be blown away by any wind.
“Let’s keep the ink flowing — until our words fill the pages of The Escolarian’s articles once more.”
Neomie Ashley P. Vasquez (Operations Manager)
Mula pa lamang sa murang edad, sa gulang na pito o grade 2, ang pagsusulat ang naging aking kanlungan at munting takas mula sa ingay ng mundo. Kaya naman, nang mag-enroll ako sa CEIS at matuklasan ang The Escolarian, agad akong napuno ng pananabik na maging bahagi nito. Higit pa sa simpleng pagsali sa isang organisasyon, pakiramdam ko'y muling tinatawag ako upang yakapin ang isa sa aking pinakamamahal — ang sining ng panulat. Ang pagsulat ay hindi lang isang kasanayan para sa akin, ito ay ang aking passion na kailanman hindi ko hahayaang mawala ang alab.
Siguro dahil naging kaibigan ko si E, siya ay naging tulay para makilala ko ang mga taong ngayon ay itinuturing kong mga kaibigan. Binigyan niya ako ng mga kasama sa pasulat, kundi mga kasama na rin sa buhay.
Para sa akin iyong mga preparation usually ng mga events lalo na noong Sipat-lawin. Kasi una na, baguhan pa lang kami noon, wala na 'yung mga seniors na naga-guide sa amin tapos, may bagyo pa. Naging paiba-iba tuloy 'yung schedule. Hindi namin alam paano ika-clutch hahaha. Pero sa awa ng Diyos nairaos naman hahaha.
Uhh, depende eh, eme! Ang pinakamaganda sa pagiging miyembro ng Editorial Board ay wala! Nakakapagod! Joke lang. Siguro the best iyong pag nagbibigayan kami ng mga ideas for coverage, sa captions or parang nagba-brainstorming ganun ang atake! Tapos minsan may mga mag-aaway hahaha. Siguro kaya ‘yun ‘yung best part for me kasi ang dami kong nakukuhang aral pati na rin mga insights kasi syempre ilan din kami don.
Para sa mga susunod na miyembro ng The Escolarian, tandaan ninyo na ang bawat pagkakamali ay isang mahalagang aral. Huwag kayong matakot na sumubok, at laging buksan ang inyong isipan sa mga bagong ideya. Ang pagiging miyembro ng The Escolarian ay higit pa sa pagsusulat o pamamahayag; ito ay isang natatanging pagkakataon para lumago, matuto, at lumikha ng mga alaala at kaibigan na panghabambuhay. Nawa'y pagyamanin ninyo ang bawat sandali at ibuhos ang inyong puso sa bawat salitang isusulat ninyo, hayaan n'yong mag-alab ang inyong mga puso sa. Laging tandaan na ang pagiging isang journalist ay hindi lang natatapos sa mga istoryang ating isinusulat, kundi maging sa mga kaisipang ating namumulat. At higit sa lahat, huwag kalimutan mag-enjoy!
Good luck, guys! Love lots, hahaha. Unawain ang isa't isa!
“Kayang-kaya niyo ‘yan! Nandito lang palagi si Ate Ashley para gabayan kayo. K thx bye.”
Kiel Emmanuel C. Caballero (Chief News Editor and Technical Head)
In junior high school, I was never a part of any organization. So, when I transferred to a new school for senior high school, I was looking for something to do, not just to make my senior high school experience monotonous. Journalism has always been a part of me, so when the recruitment season for organizations started, I submitted my application.
For me, being friends with E means being committed. There will be times when coverage runs from morning until night, and once the event is over, you still need to revise it before submitting. It takes a toll—both physically and mentally—but you still do it because of the responsibility and the love for what you do.
Personally, the most memorable experience as part of the Editorial Board was probably during the MACIPRISA Meet. There, I experienced the teamwork of the whole publication in covering such a huge event.
The best part of being a member of the Editorial Board is seeing the younger staffers grow. I have seen people once shy to talk gaining confidence to express their ideas. It is fulfilling to see them find their footing as journalists and beyond.
Learn to listen carefully. To be a journalist is not just to tell what happened; it is also to amplify the voices of people. Always remember that the stories you cover did not write themselves — they came from real people and real events. Look deeper than the “What” and learn to ask the “Who” and the “Why”. Listening carefully also goes into handling criticism, which you will get a lot of. Try to understand where these criticisms come from and learn how to use them for improvement.
“ ‘Whatever a patron desires to get published is advertising; whatever he wants to keep out of the paper is news’ - Unknown. Always remember that a journalist’s commitment should be to the truth, even when that truth becomes uncomfortable or inconvenient. I hope that the future friends of E will embrace the responsibility to tell the stories that matter with honesty and courage.”
Raizel Arabella M. Misluhani (Chief Opinion & Column Editor)
My love and passion for journalism ultimately lead me to this organization. Knowing how tiring my strand would be, I needed an outlet for my writing and creativity. But the bigger reason has to be my search for an environment dedicated to journalistic excellence and growth. Just by scrolling through their page and reading their articles, I was definitely amazed by how active they are. Being an active student publication is what sets a publication different from the others. For me, this is The Escolarian's charm that had me applying excitedly. And after two years of friendship with E, it truly made my senior high more productive and fun.
If I think about senior high school years from now, The E would be one of those to pop up immediately. This experience has given me a gift combined from the relief of going home at night after a successful event, the thrill in covering games with fellow staff members during MaCiPriSA, the anxiousness over campus press competitions or simply the laughs shared in our feasts, jokes, and chikas together. As I wrap all these experiences into one present, I tie it with a ribbon of fulfillment. I can't count the times I felt fulfilled as a friend of E, especially those moments I get to accomplish them with campus journalists with the same goals and aspirations as me.
Hindi ako nagpapakatotoo kapag hindi ko sinabing Inkblots. An experience I can never trade for was when I got to interact with the country's top journalists, whose articles I read at nights while finishing my write-ups. Aside from this, our very first event, Sipat-lawin, is something we organized in a rush yet still holds an important mark. This not only serves as an accomplishment but as a guidance for students in the SSG elections to vote morally and intelligently — a contribution to the welfare of the student body.
Hindi ko malilimutan 'yung excitement namin ni Veti nang malaman na ang Opinion and Column ay magiging independent department. Managing it was never easy, but I had my best friend with me and that made the entire publication year so much better. The moments that hit me differently would always be the time we opened up our applications for staffers, read and evaluated their articles, and finally elected who will be part of the next editorial board. Both signify important events in the organization as we, leaders, campaign for new friends of E and finally, train and leave behind those friends to be E's next set of leaders. Welcoming and guiding our new staffers is something I call the best part as an editorial board member.
While you begin to enjoy your time here, be ready to grow and find that love for campus journalism. The E is not a student publication if it's not active, a gentle reminder for the mind that your initiative and contribution is always appreciated. Now, there will be times, your voices may not be heard, a gentle reminder for the heart is to keep that journalistic passion burning as you continue to fight for what is right and beneficial for the publication and student body.
“Find your passion and it will always get you somewhere, might it be big or small, remember to enjoy it to the fullest.”
Wendy Amor B. Pineda (Chief Features Editor)
I became a member of The Escolarian mainly because of my love for writing. I’ve always loved expressing my thoughts and sharing stories that are often unheard or unseen — to be a bearer of truth. So, I made it one of my goals for the school year to join The Escolarian, and I’m forever grateful that I got in.
Being friends with E goes beyond just writing, capturing moments, or covering events. It means having the courage to open your eyes and ears to various opinions and still choose to speak the truth. It’s about having the passion to keep your pen moving, despite all odds.
There are two experiences that are especially memorable for me.
First, the last day of the Sportsfest was unforgettable. It was the latest I had ever stayed at school because of the Battle of the Bands. Despite the exhaustion, it was fun and fulfilling, as I got to bond and share laughs with my fellow student journalists over some hilarious moments that happened during the Sportsfest. Second, being part of Inkblots 2024 at UST Manila was a dream come true. Ever since I became a friend of E, I had looked forward to attending this event, where campus journalists gather and learn from renowned veterans in the field. It was there that I gained valuable insights about the Philippine elections — lessons that I still carry with me today.
The best part is the bond I’ve built with my fellow editorial board members and the entire organization. I was able to step out of my comfort zone and connect with others in ways I never imagined. At the same time, I was able to develop my writing skills and gain new knowledge that went beyond journalism.
To the next members of The Escolarian, make the most out of your time in this organization. You’ll learn how to connect with people and occasionally sacrifice early dismissals — but it’s all worth it. Yes, being part of an organization can be tiring, but it’s also a space where you’ll form meaningful friendships. Take this opportunity to hone your journalism skills, and always be ready to be a bearer of truth — nothing but the truth. Have the courage to seek and speak it with integrity and respect. Let your voice be the one that informs and empowers.
“Keep the fire in your heart burning — the passion to serve and the heart for campus journalism. Lagi't lagi para sa malayang pamamahayag.”
Jamela Loraine B. San Pablo (Lead Copyreader and Chief Photojournalist )
I was inspired by the need to try something new. Being a friend of E gave me a purpose and something to be passionate about since I was tasked to capture memories and experiences.
My most memorable experience as part of The E's Editorial Board was competing against my alma mater in the 2025 DSPC and winning 2nd place. It was a surreal experience since it was my first time competing in a press conference. The best part about serving as an Editorial Board member for a whole year was accomplishing goals for the publication alongside my friends. Always give your all but don't let the publication burn you out.
“Thank you for giving me a place and a purpose, The Escolarian.”
Ervin Russel M. Galang (Head Cartoonist)
My friends — Chessca, Jamela, and Aina — convinced me to apply as a cartoonist back when we were just grade 11 students. I had no prior interest in journalism when we were just starting out, but I stayed and I fell in love with it.
To me, being friends with E means expanding my perspective. I was able to explore my skills and deepen my connection with the arts. My role as a cartoonist even strengthened my passion for pursuing an art-related course in college (architecture) which I had been uncertain about at the time. Most importantly, being friends with E, opened my eyes and soul. Whenever we had topics to draw, I was exposed to a wider range of political and social issues from diverse points of view.
Probably, whenever we would cover or handle some certain events. The most memorable coverage to me is our first coverage as editorial board, it was for the graduation of batch 2023-2024. The venue was very small, so our station was situated outside the venue. It was hot that morning. Then in the afternoon, it started pouring cats and dogs. We scrambled to save our belongings, electronics, bags, and etc. In the end, we were wet from head to toe, but it was okay, we were happy.
The connections and friends you make along the way. I am an introvert, and wala talaga akong friends nung grade 11, parang 3 lang kami sa friend group ko dati. But then, I gained friends when I became a member of the editorial board. Then, I also really like the fact that I get to see the behind-the-scenes of things whenever we cover some type of events — the planning, the process, and the actual outputs.
Embrace the journey, have fun, and learn to love the hardships along the way. It can get stressful at times, but the joy of creating something truly meaningful makes it all worth it.
“Manage your time wisely!”
Althea S.J. Cortez (Head Social Media Manager)
Standing for the truth and being a watchdog of the community inspired me to join The Escolarian. The organization's mission to write life-changing stories aligns with my personal values. Being friends with E means a lot to me. Aside from writing and documenting, I have found a group of people I can depend on. Being friends with E led me to reach priceless moments and friendships with people in the organization. Moreover, it tells me I am not alone as I advocate transparency and press freedom.
The most memorable experience as part of The Escolarian's Editorial Board is attending the Inkblots 2025 at UST. This moment felt like a mini educational field trip for the editorial board members. It was very memorable because we got to listen to journalists' advice on how to adapt in the digital era knowing that information can be easily manipulated. Their experiences and advice are timely for the upcoming midterm elections. During this event, I was made aware of the power that campus journalism holds which made me appreciate the value of my membership in the organization.
The best part of being a member of the Editorial Board is being one of the people behind events that we cover. It is a privilege to plan and cover school events along with other members of the Editorial Board. It is fulfilling even if I have coverage tasks during school events because I know every post published on our platforms is an indelible mark left in the history of our community. Another best part is the leadership role I had. Training and inspiring others to be the next leaders of the organization has been my interest and goal.
Every story you write and article you publish has more power than you think. Unwittingly, people become more aware of the world they're living in and even causes them to change something in their daily routine just because of something they have read. These tiny changes can lead to a positive change that will redirect the trajectory of our lives. So, my advice is never to stop learning and writing so you can impart valuable pieces of knowledge to other people. Your commitment to delivering information and truth is what our nation needs.
“Truth is a noble value yet it is often withheld from people. This deprivation of truth is cured by journalism.”
Alisther B. Malbata-an (Chief Layout Artist)
I wanted to expand my talents as well as prove to myself that I can be a part of an organization as I am all new to this. Layouting may be my first experience as I applied but I learned a lot along the way. Being a friend of E proves to say that publications go beyond publishing, writing articles, taking editorial pictures or creating art for such written pieces. Publications/organizations are established to also build family, and it goes by saying that families don't always bind by blood—they are connected by heart.
My most memorable experience was with every meeting we held. I expected serious set-ups but we ended up getting distracted with laughter and genuineness.
The best part of being a member of the Editorial Board was being accepted into it. It may be a big responsibility but it is always a happy experience. You get to learn how to lead, follow, and grow along the way.
All I can say is for you to do your best. You don't have to be the best, just do your best and all will pay off.
“You don't have to do it all. Don't compare yourself — be yourself and do it all on your own pace.”
Franchessca A. Avendaño (Assistant News Editor)
I was inspired by my past school's publication that I never had the guts to join. Being a friend of E gave me the opportunity to create a community that made all staffers feel like they belong in.
My most memorable experience as an EB member was the welcoming party that I organized and planned all by myself for the staffers.
The best part of being a member of the EB was being able to have a part in helping the publication reach journalistic excellence. Always write with the truth and always fight for press freedom.
“You were everything to me, The Escolarian; thank you for giving me something to cherish.”
Vetina Marie P. Soriano (Assistant Opinion & Column Editor)
Back in my elementary and junior high school years, Araling Panlipunan, and Filipino were my strength subjects. Even though I chose the strand Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) to pursue my dreams, my passion for social studies and fighting for the truth continued to burn within me, urging me to get involved through my skills in writing in Filipino. Although it wasn’t part of my original plan, my friends encouraged me to join — and taking that risk helped me discover my potential. The bond and experiences I gained became my motivation to stay in the organization, despite personal struggles.
Beyond writing, being a friend of E means being a true "friend"— a listener to every story, a shoulder where truth can rest, and a principled guide who stands by you.
For me, the most memorable experiences would probably be SipatLawin and Inkblots. As members of the Editorial Board — especially in the Opinion Department — we were the ones who led the organization of Sipat-Lawin. This event truly challenged our leadership and social skills. To some, it may seem "boring," but the process of crafting questions and delving into data and news was actually really fun. It also gave us a fresh perspective on the candidates, helping us vote more bravely.
In relation to voting, Inkblots was definitely the most memorable. It opened our eyes to the realities of elections. Beyond that, it gave us an exciting experience exploring the University of Santo Tomas.
The best part of being on the Editorial Board is serving as an eye-opener — not just through the issues we tackle in our articles, but also by recognizing and nurturing the talents of new campus journalists who join the publication. Every year brings new opportunities for young minds to grow and enhance their skills, and being able to guide them on that journey is truly a chapter filled in a rollercoaster ride yet in the end fulfilling to look back.
To the next Editorial Board, paki-alagaan si E, at the same time, ‘wag niyong kakalimutan ang sarili niyo at ang friendship niyo. Being part of the Editorial Board during your senior years will really humble you, but it will also serve as a glimpse of college life. May it serve as a lesson to you para malaman ang halaga ng time management, pero higit sa lahat, ang halaga ng kaibigan.
As an opinion writer, editorials evince the voice of the publication, and with that essence, may it serve as a reminder to be one and learn from mistakes — ang mga misunderstanding ay lesson, hindi destruction. After all, you are the voice and eye of the student body — ‘di lang kayo mag-isa, marami kayo para magkaroon ng kadamay at katulong, hindi kaaway at kalaban.
“You are here for a reason: Do it with purpose, write bravely.”
Ferne Gaia F. Galvez (Assistant Features Editor)
At first, I just wanted to write. But over time, I realized that I wanted to be part of something bigger. That’s when The Escolarian came into the picture. From answering the Microsoft Form in hopes of being recruited as a new member, to the competitive exams, and to finally becoming part of the organization itself, it felt like the right place for me. I’ve been a campus journalist for years, and joining The Escolarian felt like second nature — a chance to grow not just as a writer, but as someone who wants to tell stories that matter. Dati pa noong Grade 10 ako, I attended the CEIS Open House 2023 because I was eyeing for a school to enroll in after I graduate JHS. Ayon, kita ko kasi ang daming students na nagpi-picture during one of the trial classes I was in, kaya after ng event, nag-search agad ako sa Facebook 'CEIS Open House 2023' kasi what if pangit ako sa mga pictures? And that's when fate unfolded itself right in front of my eyes. I saw The Escolarian — the official student publication — and realized that it was the very students that were behind the photos, the captions, and the coverage that caught my attention in the first place. I remember scrolling through the posts and thinking, "I want to be part of this." Journalism is just something that I will always yearn for. It's a calling at this point.
Being friends with E goes far beyond writing articles and meeting deadlines. Truth be told, I’ve always felt like I didn’t quite fit in anywhere else, but with E, it was different. It’s a place where I felt seen — not just for what I write, but for who I am. I've built friendships with some of my favorite people in the whole world. To Ervin, Chessca, and Jamela — thank you for being my constant support, kahit tawa lang tayo nang tawa tuwing may meeting ang Editorial Board.
But being part of E means more than just friendship. It means being on the frontlines of delivering fast, accurate, and relevant news to our fellow students. We carry the responsibility of being the school’s eyes and ears, you will hear Sir Raymond say we are the school's "watchdogs" a couple of times throughout your stay in The Escolarian. We turn raw information into stories and updates that matter.
Being friends with E fuels us with that purpose in my life.
Noong 2024, nakita ko sa page ng The Escolarian na pumunta sila sa Inkblots, an annual event hosted by The Varsitarian, UST's official student publication. Over sa inggit kasi—wow, what a privilege it is to be surrounded by hundreds of campus journalists who share the same passion as you. But honestly, grade 11 me would’ve fainted knowing that grade 12 me actually attended the very same national campus journalism fellowship that I was once on my knees hoping for. At the 26th Inkblots, I witnessed firsthand how campus journalism isn’t just about writing articles —it’s about being catalysts for truth, especially in crucial times, take the elections for example. From learning about the influence of political dynasties and the responsibility of running digital newsrooms, to understanding how student journalism is “real journalism,” the event was an eye-opener. Lian Buan’s discussion especially really stuck with me — she talked about how Philippine elections are “emotion-driven” and urged journalists to truly listen to voters’ emotions to help people vote bravely.
Being part of The Escolarian and the Editorial Board has shown me that journalism is a powerful tool. It’s a responsibility I’m proud to carry.
The best part of being a member of the Editorial Board is brainstorming creative ideas and bringing to life coverage for school events like Sipat-lawin, MACIPRISA, Sportsfest, Valentine’s Day, and the likes. I absolutely loved being in the thick of the action — covering these events, capturing the stories behind them, writing about them, all while proudly wearing my Media ID. Kahit nasa labas ako, susuotin ko talaga 'yan, eh. Feel ko tuloy 'yung best part ng pagiging parte ng Editorial Board 'yung Media ID.
To the next members of The Escolarian, you’re not just joining an organization — you’re stepping into a responsibility. There will be moments of pressure — deadlines closing in, stories falling apart, equipment failing last minute, gossip always following you wherever you go, paminsan-minsan, makikita niyo rin 'yung mga sarili niyo na nag-aaway. Don't remain stagnant. Himayin niyo 'yung problema hanggang sa makakita kayo ng solusyon.
When you write, never forget the humanity behind your story. It's easy to drown in numbers, facts, and quotes, but remember: journalism is never just about the issues — it’s about the people living through them. Each story you write about is someone’s pain, someone’s fight, someone’s reality.
Push boundaries. Know the rules, pero huwag na huwag kayo matakot kuwestyunin ang mga ito. Huwag makuntento sa kung ano lang ang "ligtas" o komportable, dahil hindi doon makikita ang mga tunay na kwento. Hayaan ninyong mangailangan kayo ng tapang. At higit sa lahat, huwag na huwag ninyong kalilimutan kung bakit kayo nagsimula — dahil kung mahigpit ninyong hahawakin ang dahilan na ’yon, mananatili ang apoy kahit gaano pa kahirap ang daan.
Good luck to our future staffers! Lagi't lagi para sa malayang pamamahayag.
“Magsilbing liwanag sa dilim.”
Aaron Jan C. Sulit (Assistant Technical Head and Assistant Photojournalist)
The Escolarian campaign inspired me to join, and a friend of mine. The shared memories I've had and the friendship I made along the way in my journey as a friend of The Escolarian for 2 years. Something that goes beyond writing for me is unexpected.
My first day as a photojournalist contributor of the E, meeting my seniors for the first time in a welcome party that they have prepared for us. The feeling of nervousness and excitement, I was welcomed with introduction, laughter, memory, and experience that I'll carry on as I go — that day was my first that led to all till to my last. I'll never forget that day, and the pizzas.
Seeing your juniors to where you were once before, learning and probably doing better than I did before. Plus the Inkblots 25' at UST.
As a senior, depart from this organization, I wish you all the best and God bless. Sad to say that we are to bid a farewell, I never regretted joining though there are times in the midst of stress that I start to question myself about me being a part of the E, I'm sure you'll do to at some point but be steadfast if this is what you really yearn for. Brace yourselves as sweet memories, friendship, opportunities, and learning is going to knock on your door soon. One day you'll be the one to depart from this, cherish it while you can! Goodbye. Kumain ka ng gulay at tumulong ka sa magulang mo at ‘wag kang suwail.
“Makulay ang buhay sa sinabawang gulay. Okay lang 75 sa card, aanhin mo naman ba kasi yung extra, eh 75 lang passing, eme.”
Cris Nathaniel D.G. Dayao (Assistant Layout Artist)
Well, I have a passion and creativity in some aspects of journalism, so why not join the publication. It gives me an experience of how working with other people runs.
Isa sa mga memorable na ginawa ko as the Editorial Board was the activity for the United Nations, that time kasi walang task yung publication other than the coverage for Event, so nag pitch in ako sa Editorial Board na why not mag-photoshoot din kami for publication use, so good thing na approve sya, yung head shots and group shots. Happily, okay s’ya — maraming teachers and students ang natuwa.
Best part, uhm, sabihin na din natin na mataas position mo, but besides that, dahil din doon yung other seniors and members ay nirerespeto ka not because Editorial Board ka, but because they admire you as their senior
Panatilihing bukas ang isipan, and also please kapag may problema within the publication, pilitin laging pag-usapan, pag may hindi gusto, sabihin at ‘wag kimkimin, nasa iisang publication lang kayo, kaya dapat kayo kayo lang din ang nagkakaintindihan at nagdadamayan, especially nagtutulungan.
“I love you guys! To the new Editorial Board and other members! Ipagpatuloy n’yo ang nasimulan ng mga seniors nyo, huwag ninyo hahayaang mawala, also lagi’t lagi panatilihing malaya ang pahayagan, huwag gawing dahilan ang school para maging bias at nagbubulagbulagan ang pahayagan. I, your senior, proud na proud ako sa inyo!”
Now that your friend, E, is waving with a warm smile, hoping you will never forget those obstacles you have overcome with your peers, or the feeling of satisfaction after the success of the article or event you spent your sleepless nights on. E also hopes for you to reflect against the poignant whispers of doubt that crept in, casting shadows of uncertainty about whether you had truly done enough. Remember your journey as a journalist and embrace the valuable lessons that The Esco made you realize. Your dedication to being the voice of the voiceless made plenty of people open their eyes and even follow in the footsteps you made.
Now that letter E is no longer your embarkation but rather the end of your narration as an Escolarian, a new chapter for you and E will begin enthusiastically as you both look back at the beautiful traces that you created.
May you continue to be a beacon of light for those who remain silent.
"Lagi't lagi, para sa malayang pamamahayag!"