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Written by: Kim V. Dator Photo Courtesy of Engr. Madecheen S. Pangaliman, MSc Thomasian Electronics Engineering (ECE) students were hailed 2nd runner-up in the 1st Inter-University Globe and Amazon Web Services (AWS) DeepRacer League 2023 held at the Globe Tower, Taguig, last January 17. The inter-university league comprised 19 teams from five universities, namely, Batangas State University (BSU), De La Salle University (DLSU), Mapua University, University of the Philippines (UP), and University of Santo Tomas (UST). The contest proper had an elimination round where the top three scorers will be drawn to proceed to the final round where winners will be concluded. Two teams represented the University. The runner-up, veloECEty, was composed of Aryzza Antonette Aperocho, the team captain, Kristan Ruiz, and John Earl Patrick Sandoval with Engr. Ma. Madecheen S. Pangaliman, MSc as their coach; whereas, the other team, Tisla Rudester, consisted of Gian Angelo Calumpang, Alec Mendoza, and Cherline Anne Perez and was led by Engr. Gabriel Rodnei M. Geslani, MSc. The veloECEty attained a total time lap of 15.460 seconds in the final round, placing them in the third spot, while Turing Racing of UP Diliman and Cardinal Dynamics of MAPUA University finished first, with 13.009 seconds, and second with 13.884 seconds, respectively. The car models used were replaced in each round and random tracks were used per race. When asked about the process of building the prototype, Aperocho stated that each member thought of a strategy which is to design a reward function and test every code they have created to determine which model will yield the fastest time lap while still being stable. “What challenged the team the most was that we were only given a week for the prototyping and testing of our models before the contest. As students who were new to Machine Learning (ML), we struggled with designing a competitive model due to the short amount of time given,” she added. Moreover, she hopes that this achievement inspires the Thomasians to grab learning opportunities such as workshops and competitions as one can gain valuable experiences and new skills that are beneficial in the long run. “Once we become successful Thomasian graduates, we could use [these] skills and knowledge in technological areas, such as machine learning, to develop innovative projects beneficial to societal progress,” she highlighted. The said event is an autonomous racing league that equips self-driving robotic cars with ML for track racing. Prior to the competition, participants attended a workshop where they received hands-on learning.

“Every day is all about me.” Wednesday—a long running top Netflix hit—revolves around an outcast story of a teenager that evolves within her mysterious family, showing how society works and affects the social group. Timothy Walter Burton, the series director, is known for his gothic fantasy, as he turns character Wednesday Addams to have mysterious characteristics. Together with Netflix, Burton released a supernatural comedy horror spinoff that gives an excitement and thrill to the viewers, which premiered in November and is expected to have its Season 2 soon. Just in time for a perfect spooky series to binge watch! With nearly-an-hour-long 8 episodes, the series showcases different episodes that turn the viewers into a realistic and mystery adventure. It piques the viewers' interest, causing them to expand their imaginations, eliciting curiosity to discover who the true monster behind all the murder in Nevermore is. Portrayed by Jenna Ortega, it is known to us that Wednesday is popularly known for being gothic and unique among other students of Nevermore. In fact, viewers have expressed that her presence is too impressive and has cold characteristics and sarcasm that screams her inner darkness. Spoiler alert! Wednesday’s journey in Nevermore Academy will not be successful and exciting without her friends and best sidekick–Thing. Despite the fact that Wednesday has a friend way back before her childhood she also expressed her sincerity and shows the faithfulness to Thing, apart, of course, from her Nevermore late bloomer werewolf bestie Enid Sinclair. Throughout the series, we always see how Wednesday is a distinct and autonomous adolescent who finds herself interested in visiting morgues, and doing a lot of unusual things. However, everything becomes even more difficult and a big struggle until Wednesday, when a number of killings begin to take place in and around Nevermore and they appear to be related to her and her family. More than creepiness and gothic vibes, the series undeniably offers a bit of a love triangle, too, which honestly makes it something to be fond of. To our surprise, Wednesday’s invulnerability when it comes to her emotion and sense also comes with a fragile heart—and we can’t deny the fact that she also has feelings that simply adds to her existing powerful and impressive arsenal. For a feel-good and thrilling series, Wednesday is something that every viewer would love, especially with the presence of the ever-hyped star Jenna Ortega. Yet, there is no doubt that it could be more enjoyable for those who enjoy wrapping their heads around the mystery that awaits in the show. Indeed, Wednesday is not a simply horrifying series, for it also gives us a glimpse of who she really is—something that we have missed in the previous versions of the Addams Family’s story. All that with a mix of love, friendship, and truly embracing one’s uniqueness! Although she is more fond of anything dark and black, Wednesday, without a doubt, has a heart for people that she truly cares for and has everyone’s back! Although worth the hype that it is receiving, it is fair to say that it could be more exciting if Wednesday could live in a place where she would shine and how the environment would see through her hidden colors.

Art by: Ed Asuncion How Advancement Stole our Christmas Written by: Christian Jyreh Mendoza It was night. It was day. The vibrance of lights felt gray With the bass of the beat at day Like the spirit of the soul Christmas caught a faded goal. Everything’s been good. You don’t need to worry. No, you should never be sorry. The world is better, right? Advancing; ahead, it’s forging Let’s enjoy the night of the light. No joy. No sorrow. No vision of what will happen tomorrow. No lights. No fireflies. Who can see the true longing in your eyes? Eyes are empty. Smiling at gleaming screens. Have we turned to slaves of machines? It’s Christmas. The season of giving. And living and reliving. Supposedly. Technology. Oh, how life restarts And how things got easier ‘Cept for the connection of our hearts Like magnets, we try Unaware of likeness of poles May we enjoy the night facing each other? In the night. In the light. A humdrum so gray Indistinct streets A different kind of surreal Christmas seems like another day To twinkle to conceal

Isinulat ni: Euclid Jornacion Iginuhit ni: Jean Orme “𝘼𝙣𝙜 𝙠𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙩𝙖𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙖𝙜-𝙖𝙨𝙖 𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙖𝙮𝙖𝙣.”, isang palasak na kataga mula kay Dr. Jose Rizal na magpahanggang ngayon ay binibigyan ko pa rin ng malalim na pagpapahalaga at kahulugan. Ito ay sumasalamin sa halaga, pagmamahal, at pag-asa ni Rizal sa bigat ng responsibilidad nating mga kabataan sa ating bayan. At bilang isa ring Tomasino, tinatanggap ko ang hamon sa atin – 𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘢𝘣𝘢𝘨𝘰𝘯𝘨 𝘩𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘳𝘢𝘴𝘺𝘰𝘯. 𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞, 𝐦𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐠𝐦𝐚𝐡𝐚𝐥, 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐛𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐧, 𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐠𝐢𝐧, 𝐚𝐭 𝐦𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐨𝐭 𝐬𝐚 𝐃𝐢𝐲𝐨𝐬. Ito ang ilan sa mga katangian ng ating pambansang bayani na dapat nating taglayin at ipamalas bilang mga Pilipinong nagsisikap na maging direksyon ng pag-asa. Ngunit paano nga ba natin ito maipamamalas nang tama? Paano nga ba natin maisabubuhay si Rizal bilang Pilipino at maging bilang isang Tomasino? Oh ‘eto, sagot ko ang ilang mga munting panuntunan ukol dito. Una, 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙤… 𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙞 𝙗𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙖-𝙗𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙪𝙢𝙪𝙨𝙪𝙠𝙤! Tinatanggap niya ang bawat nababatong hamon at ginagawa ang lahat upang masolusyunan gamit ang tamang prinsipyo. Maihahalintulad natin ito sa kung paano tayo ipinaglaban ni Rizal sa mga Kastila. Maaalalang gumawa siya ng masining at banayad na paraan upang subukang hadlangan ang pananakop sa ating Inang Bayan. Tinta at papel ang naging sandata upang labanan ang tiranya at opresyon ng unang panahon. Pangalawa, 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙤… 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙖 𝙠𝙖𝙝𝙞𝙩 𝙣𝙖 𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙤! Katulad ni Rizal, marapat na malalim ang respeto at pagpapahalaga natin sa ating mga pamilya, mga kaibigan, at mga kababayan. Pangatlo, 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙤… 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙖𝙗𝙖𝙮𝙖𝙣 ‘𝙮𝙖𝙣! May dangal at kakayahang lumingon sa pinanggalingan! Ang paglimot sa nagdaan ay katumbas ng pagbura ng kahulugan ng kasalukuyan. Huwag tayong mapagpanggap, bagkus, itaas ang noo at ituon ang atensyon sa liwanag ng tama at nararapat. Katulad ni Rizal, bagama’t siya’y nangibang bansa, hindi pa rin niya hinayaang tuluyang magluksa ang ating bayan. Hayun! Bumalik sa pinanggalingan upang akayin ang mga uhaw sa kalayaan at demokrasya. Pang-apat, 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙤… 𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙪𝙢𝙪𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜! Mapa-araw o gabi, walang isip-isip sa pag-alok ng kanyang kamay sa iba basta’t kaya niya. At ang pagtulong, 𝘸𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘯𝘨 𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘱𝘪𝘭𝘪 ‘𝘺𝘢𝘯! Mapa- pamilya man, kaibigan, o kapwa, sagot nila kayo! Ang tulong ay lumalapit sa mga taong nararapat pa rito, kaya huwag kang mag-alala. At higit sa lahat, 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙤… 𝙢𝙖𝙮 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙤𝙩 𝙨𝙖 𝘿𝙞𝙮𝙤𝙨. Bilang parte ng isang kilalang Katolikong pamantasan, maipamamalas natin ang katangian nito ni Rizal sa pamamagitan ng araw-araw na pagdarasal para sa gabay at proteksyon laban sa mga taliwas sa kabutihan. Ang pagbibigay rin ng halaga sa 𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘢 𝘩𝘢𝘦𝘤 na sumisimbolo sa matibay na pundasyon ng ating Unibersidad. 𝙋𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙜, 𝙥𝙖𝙜-𝙖𝙨𝙖, 𝙖𝙩 𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙢𝙖𝙢𝙖𝙝𝙖𝙡. Ito ang mga naging pundasyon sa pagtatag ng kasaysayan ng ating Unibersidad. Ito ang mga bagay na kailanma’y hindi kukupas sa sansinukuban. Sa ating paggunita ng ika-isandaa’t dalawampu’t anim na anibersaryo ng pagkamatay ni Dr. Jose Rizal, nawa’y maalala at maisapuso rin natin ang kanyang mga magagandang katangian. Ito rin malamang ang mga bagay na nagpakawala sa atin mula sa rehas ng diskriminasyon at kolonyalismo ng hilagang-kanluran. Nawa'y maisabuhay natin ang mga ito hindi lang bilang isang Tomasino, kundi bilang isang Pilipino. Saludo sa iyo, Gat. Jose Rizal!

Written by: Doroteo D. Prudenciano II and Aliah Nicole C. Brillante Photo by: Jeremy Edera As a culmination for the first half of the academic year, around 51,000 Thomasians gathered for the face-to-face comeback of the long-awaited Paskuhan Concert last December 19, 2022. The UST Yellow Jackets, the official Pep Squad of the University, led the opening of the Paskuhan Concert with their exhibition performance in front of the UST Main Building. “There’s a lot of worry since we don’t know what to expect [because] this is a transition Paskuhan, and nonetheless excited kasi ang daming in store for everyone who is excited to go back to Paskuhan,” UST Chemical Engineering Society (UST ChES) Adviser Engr. Aldrin Lorrenz Chan, MSc, said. “This is our reward for our finals week and hopefully we all did well. This is different kasi it’s a Monday, different from our previous Paskuhans, we had Thursdays and Fridays. So hope we could all enjoy this as a reward after the exam,” he added. Meanwhile, UST Civil Engineering (CE) Department Chair Engr. Rajiv Eldon Abdullah, MEng., uttered, “I think this Paskuhan is a redemption and is also a part of hope din kasi we’re transitioning back to more on-site classes. It’s nice to see happy faces ngayon and sana okay lahat ng grades nila for final exams.” Guest performer Earl Generao set the stage for the concert as the first act. This was followed by other guest performances from Dotty’s World, Kenaniah, and Soapdish. UST Faculty of Engineering band Illumina also graced the stage, together with fellow Thomasian bands Lucy and Sean Archer. This lineup emerged as winners from the “Tunog Tomasino: Stellaris Bound” battle of the bands held earlier this month. “Wala kami masabi, iba kasi yung experience, matagal na naming pinangarap ‘to, ito na yun. Sana maenjoy niyo ‘yung Paskuhan niyo this year lalo na at kababalik lang natin,” Illumina said after their performance. College-based and university-wide dance troupes 1Shade, Ba Dauncén, College of Science DT, Engineering DT, INTENZYC-CTHM, Nursing DT, Paci Rhutmos, UST Prime, UST Salinggawi DT, UST Sinag Ballroom, and UST Yellow Jackets jived with the crowd with their dance performances. Solo artist Adie serenaded the crowd with his acoustic rendition of his songs “Kabado”, “Tahanan”, “Mahika”, and “Paraluman.” Lola Amour also performed in their third Paskuhan guesting where Thomasians got to sing along live with their tracks “Pwede Ba” and “Fallen” among others. Prominent OPM band Mayonnaise performed last and hyped the Thomasian crowd with their hit songs “Tayo na lang Dalawa”, “Bakit Pt.2”, and their famous “Jopay”. The Paskuhan celebration was concluded with the much-awaited eight-minute pyro-musical fireworks display with the theme, “Pananabik, Pagbabalik, Panunumbalik” and the singing of the UST hymn. “[Paborito kong parte ng Paskuhan] ‘yung sabay-sabay kaming tumatalon at kumakanta ng mga kaibigan ko sa Jopay,” Rondem Bandiola, a graduating Electronics Engineering (ECE) student, said when asked about his favorite Paskuhan moment. “Wala naman ako masyadong naramdaman before pero after paskuhan parang bittersweet kasi last ko na pala yun,” he added. Whereas CE sophomore Timothy Sagun said, “Singing along with the crowd and witnessing the eight-minute long fireworks display really made my first face-to-face Paskuhan a memorable one.” Meanwhile, the long queues posted an unpleasant sentiment for some, including sophomore CE student Marjorie Tycangco. “As a first timer na umattend ng Paskuhan, ang haba ng pila, nakakahaggard, tapos feel ko mas okay na walang outsider kasi ang haba na nga ng pila how much more pag may outsider pa,” Tycangco commented. In anticipation of the large volume of attendees, the University declared the Thomasian-exclusive festivities a carless day. Additionally, long entrance queues were due to heightened security amid the pandemic.

Written by: Szarina dela Paz and Carl Christian Calderon Photos by: Jeremy Edera, Khristel Penoliar, Aldea Mendoza, and Airon Valenzuela For the first time since the dawn of the COVID-19 pandemic, the traditional Agape, also known as the Thomasian Christmas Feast, was held in an in-person setup last December 2, 2022. Agape, a Greek word for the "highest form of charity and love", was part of this year's Paskuhan Festivities and was earlier announced by the University officials that it will be held exclusively for Thomasian students and alumni. The food distribution for Agape began at 5 PM, as the students claimed the food packs provided using the food stubs distributed by the University from November 26 to December 1, 2022. Each student was provided one food stub throughout that period of time. As the clock struck 6 PM, a prayer commenced the program proper of this year’s Agape. This was followed by a reading of the Holy Scriptures, Intercessions, and ended with a bestowment of blessings presided over by UST Rector Very Rev. Fr. Richard G. Ang, O.P. Assistant to the Rector for UST General Santos, Academician Prof. Maribel G. Nonato, PhD, and Assistant to the Rector for UST Sta. Rosa, Prof. Philipina Marcelo, PhD, led the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree. “UST has always triumphed over adversity. Guided by unchanging faith, steadfast hope, and [...] love,” Prof. Marcelo highlighted the University’s guiding principles in the past years. “UST navigates all frontiers in order to bring light where it is needed, lumina pandit,” Prof. Marcelo ended her speech with a project title of the University, meaning “spreading the light.” “From a flickering light in Intramuros, the light was scattered to Sampaloc 95 years ago. From Intramuros to Sampaloc, to Santa Rosa, to General Santos–the Thomasians spread the light to the world,” Prof. Nonato said. The UST Rector then officially declared the formal opening of the Paskuhan Festivities 2022. Following this were the performances of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) by the UST Symphony Orchestra, UST Singers, Liturgikon Vocal Ensemble, Coro Tomasino, conductor Micheal Jacinto, and musicians from the Conservatory of Music which showcased Thomasian talents. Lights, Parols, and the University’s Christmas Tree were lit and were followed by a majestic display of fireworks. Thereafter, a traditional siren atop the UST Main Building was rung as a symbol of calling fellow Thomasians from all corners of the country. Very Rev. Fr. Ang pondered on three points in his speech to the Thomasian community to highlight this year’s Paskuhan theme, “Pananabik, Pagbabalik, at Panunumbalik.” The Rector looked back on the two-year Thomasian journey-balakid caused by COVID-19 lockdowns. “Mayroong pananabik [sa ating] pagbabalik sa Unibersidad [at] panunumbalik, which is the act of restoration,” Fr. Ang said in his message. UST Paskuhan 2022 Festivities resume on December 7 for the University-wide Advent Recollection and end on December 19 with the much-awaited return of the face-to-face Grand Paskuhan Concert.

Written by: Marc Ivan Dilla Photo Courtesy of UST Engineering Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Six victors of the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Engineering Student Council (ESC) executive board polls took their pledge of service last November 29, 2022, via ZOOM and Facebook Live. The new members of the ESC Executive Board for 2022-2023 took their oaths before Faculty Regent Rev. Fr. Roberto L. Luanzon Jr. O.P., Engineering Dean Prof. Angelo R. dela Cruz PhD, PECE, Assistant Dean Prof. Anthony James C. Bautista, PME, MBA, PhD, and members of the UST Engineering Commission on Elections (COMELEC). As newly elected Internal Vice President of the ESC, Pauline Zian A. Suyat of the UST Department of Electronics Engineering (ECE) took her pledge of service and received her constitutional duties from Prof. dela Cruz. The other five who took their oaths of office as new members of the ESC Executive Board are ESC Secretary Alyssa Laraine M. Cunanan, ESC Assistant Secretary Sophia Mauricia A. Villanueva, ESC Treasurer Joemille Brent R. Galera, ESC Assistant Treasurer Lourd Albert T. Bañaga, and ESC Public Relations Officer Claudelle L. Fajardo. Rev. Fr. Luanzon, O.P. blessed the elected officers after they took their oaths, applauded them for winning the elections, and encouraged them to give their best in serving the UST Faculty of Engineering (FoE). Prof. dela Cruz and Asst. Prof. Bautista also delivered congratulatory messages to the council members present in the meeting. The oath-taking ceremony concluded after Internal Vice President Suyat, on behalf of the newly-elected officers, offered her gratitude in response to the messages of the Faculty Regent, Dean, and Asst. Dean.

Written by: Kim V. Dator Photos by: Khristel Kate Penoliar University officials discussed details about this year’s Christmas festivities during the UST Paskuhan 2022 Info Session facilitated by the UST Communications Bureau last November 11 via Facebook livestream. The information session provided a glimpse of the most awaited return of the traditional in-person Paskuhan after a two-year halt due to the pandemic. It also answered some queries of the Thomasian community sent through Google Forms two days before the event. The session was led by Ms. Katherine Patrice B. Sibug, the Master of Ceremonies. Rev. Fr. Louie R. Coronel, O.P., the Secretary-General and Chair of the University Events Committee, gave the opening remarks explaining this year’s theme, “UST PASKUHAN 2022: Pananabik. Pagbabalik. Panunumbalik.” Agape, Christmas Carol Concert, and Mass The keynote speakers of the first session were the Secretary-General, Rev. Fr. Louie R. Coronel, O.P.; the Executive Assistant of the Secretary-General, Dr. Emmanuel M. Batulan; and the Dean of the Conservatory of Music, Assoc. Prof. Antonio P. Africa, PhD. On an inquiry about church mass and offerings, Rev. Fr. Coronel announced that there will be a Paskuhan Mass at the UST Santissimo Parish on December 16. Dr. Batulan added that all proceeds will be donated to the Dominican Missions and the priority projects of the UST Simbahayan Community Development Office. Furthermore, he mentioned that in every Paskuhan activity, a special liturgy is embedded in the program as a way to give thanks and prayers to the Lord. Assoc. Prof. Africa revealed that there will be a live Christmas concert on December 2 at Plaza Mayor to be hosted by the Conservatory of Music. When asked about the lineup for the said concert, he replied, “As to the lineup, in as much as we want to surprise you, our audience, we won’t tell you the lineup… but, it will be the 1st All-Filipino Christmas Carol” as he enunciated that they have composed two to three new songs in Filipino. As for the Agape on December 2, Dr. Batulan said that the University will be providing the Thomasian students and staff with foods that they can share with their friends, highlighting the essence of Agape. The lighting of Christmas lights inside the campus will also be integrated with the Agape and the concert on December 2. UST Paskuhan Concert and Battle of the Bands For the second portion of the session, the guest speakers were Asst. Prof. Faye M. Abugan, MA, the Asst. Director of the Communications Bureau; Kiara Venice M. Delgado, the Chief of Staff of the UST Central Student Council (CSC); and Mikhael S. Mandap, the VP for Quality Management and Assurance of the UST Student Organization Coordinating Council (SOCC). According to Asst. Prof. Abugan, the Christmas raffle draw at the Plaza Mayor at 10 AM will kick off the day while the actual Paskuhan concert will begin at 3 to 4 PM. Meanwhile, Delgado shared that the Paskuhan concert will feature five Thomasian talents, mainly, three bands and two selected dance troupes. An audition entitled “Tunog Tomasino” will be held in which six student bands will battle for the top three spots, granting a special performance at the Paskuhan concert. The battle of the bands will occur on December 5 and will be coordinated by Thomasian Media Circle and Talents (TOMCAT) and Tiger Media Network (TMN) virtually. “For now, ‘di muna namin ididisclose…so stay tuned lang Thomasians. We see your suggestions, nakikita namin ‘yan. No worries,” Delgado said when asked about the guest bands lineup. Further announcements about the concert will be posted by TOMCAT and on the pages of CSC and SOCC. Health and Safety Protocols The last segment was joined by Dr. Sheryl M. Dionisio, the Director of the UST Health Services; Engr. Jared Gunting and Ar. Mark Guarano from the Facilities Management Office; and Mr. Joseph Badinas from the Security Office. In observance of the minimum health protocols, Dr. Dionisio stated that wearing of face masks is still required since the festivity is a university-wide mass gathering. Students are also required to accomplish their Thomasian Online Medical Services and Support (ThOMedSS) health declaration before entering the University. Following this, Engr. Gunting presented the pedestrian access points for the Agape and Paskuhan 2022. To avoid traffic upon entrance, an early leeway will be done and students are encouraged to use transparent bags and discouraged to bring large bags. Any sharp, pointed objects are also strictly prohibited. Upon entrance, Thomasians are required to present their ID or print out the generated QR code found in their MyUstePortal. Finally, Ar. Guarano described the theme of the campus lights and decorations as “Pinoy Superheroes,” inspired by the heroic acts of the frontliners during the pandemic integrated with the Christmas theme.

Sa panunulat nina: Jezel Chua, Janna Ong, at Ainsley Tumbaga Sa pagguhit ni: Jean Orme 1 INT. SILID-TULUGAN NI ELEANOR - GABI Kakauwi lang ni Eleanor galing sa eskwelahan. Mugto ang kaniyang mga mata. Kitang-kita sa kaniyang mukha ang matinding pagod. Dali-dali itong nagpalit ng pambahay na damit at nagsimula nang humiga sa kaniyang kama. Sinubukan nitong matulog ngunit tatlong oras na ang nakalipas pero ang kanyang diwa ay gising na gising pa rin. ELEANOR Hindi na naman ako makatulog. Gabi-gabi na lang ba akong ganito? Kanina ko pa iniisip kung kasalanan ko ba yung nakuha ni Mia na mababang score sa quiz namin kanina. Hindi ko kasi sya naturuan noong nagtanong siya dahil abala ako sa pag-aalaga sa kapatid ko. Galit kaya sa akin si Mia? Hindi niya kasi ako pinapansin kanina. Si Nathan, ang boyfriend ko. Galit din kaya siya sa akin dahil hindi ko siya sinundo sa kaniyang bahay kaninang umaga? Sumikat na ang araw at hindi pa rin nakakatulog si Eleanor dahil sa mga bumabagabag sa kaniyang isipan. Nagulantang si Eleanor nang may kumatok sa kaniyang pinto. Ang nanay niya. NANAY Eleanor, anak, mabuti naman at gising ka na. Baka mahuli ka na naman sa pagpasok sa eskwela. ELEANOR Opo, ‘nay, gising na po. Mag-aayos lang po ako. NANAY Bakit ganiyan ang mga mata mo, anak? Mukha ka nang multo. Ano ginagawa mo? Hindi ka ba natutulog? ELEANOR Natutulog naman po, ‘Nay. NANAY Anak, may problema ba? ELEANOR Wala naman po, ‘Nay. Madami lang siguro akong iniisip. NANAY O siya, sige, mag-ayos ka na at baka mahuli ka na naman sa iyong eskwela. 2 INT. PAARALAN NI ELEANOR. TANGHALI Nasa silid-kainan si Eleanor kasama ang kaniyang mga kaibigan na sina Mia at Jake. Sabay-sabay silang kumakain ng kanilang paboritong turon. MIA Eleanor, pasensya ka na kahapon kung hindi kita pinansin. ELEANOR Ayos lang yun, Mia. MIA Salamat, Eleanor. Pero pwede mo ba akong tulungan sa assignment natin sa Math? Hindi ko kasi maintindihan ‘yung tinuro kanina e. ELEANOR Oo naman, kailan mo ba gusto? MIA Mamayang gabi sana, kung ayos lang. ELEANOR Sige, pwede naman. ELEANOR Lagi ko nang kasama sina Jake at Mia mula sa pagkabata. Mahal na mahal ko sila dahil sila lang ang aking mga kaibigan. Pero minsan napapaisip lang rin ako, mahal din kaya nila ako? Bakit parang hindi ko maramdaman ang presensya nila kapag ako naman ang nagka-problema? JAKE Eleanor! Pwede mo ba akong samahan bumili ng bulaklak para kay Clara? ELEANOR Sige, kailan ba? JAKE Mamaya na sana. At kung ayos lang, ikaw na rin magbigay kay Clara. ELEANOR Hala siya! Bakit naman ako? JAKE Nahihiya ako, eh. MIA Hay nako, Jake! Nauna akong magpasama kay Eleanor e! JAKE Pangalawa naman ako na nagsabi, ah? Pwede namang samahan niya muna akong bumili ng bulaklak at pagkatapos no’n ay ‘saka na kayo mag-aral. MIA Ah basta! Ako ang nauna! ELEANOR Hay, wag na kayong magtalo. Para patas, pareho ko na lang kayong sasamahan. 3 EXT. PARKE. GABI. Halos tumakbo si Eleanor papunta sa parke para tagpuin si Nathan, ang kaniyang boyfriend. Na-late na naman si Eleanor sa kanilang oras ng tagpuan dahil abala siya sa pag-aasikaso ng kaniyang mga kaibigan. Nang makarating si Eleanor sa kanilang tagpuan, kitang-kita sa mukha ni Nathan ang labis na pagka-inis. ELEANOR Kinakabahan ako. Sana huwag magalit si Nathan. Natagalan kasi ako sa pagtulong kay Mia sa assignment niya eh. NATHAN Bakit late ka na naman? Saan ka ba nanggaling? Nanlalaki ka ba?! Galit na naman nga. ELEANOR Hindi. Sorry, Nathan. Tinulungan ko pa kasi si Mia na tapusin ‘yung assignment niya. NATHAN Bakit mo pa kasi siya tinutulungan? Alam mo namang magkikita tayo ngayon e! ELEANOR Hindi ko naman alam na matatagalan kami. Pwede bang palampasin muna natin ito? Andito naman na ako ngayon oh. 4. INT. KAINAN. GABI Nagkaroon ng matinding sagutan ang magkasintahan sa loob ng restawran dahil sa hindi pagkakaunawaan. NATHAN Mahal, anong gusto mong kainin? ELEANOR Ah, ’yung burger at fries na lang. NATHAN Bakit yun? Alam mong tumataba ka na. Tigilan mo na ‘yang kakakain mo ng mga burger at fries na ‘yan! ELEANOR Ikaw rin pala ang magdedesisyon, eh ‘di sana hindi ka na nagtanong. Biglaang hinatak ni Nathan ang buhok ni Eleanor at kitang-kita sa mukha ni Eleanor na nasasaktan ito dahil sa higpit ng pagkakahawak sa kaniyang buhok. NATHAN At kailan ka pa natutong sumagot sa’kin, ha?! Binabastos mo ba ako?! ELEANOR Oo, diba nagtatanong ka? Napatingin ang mga tao sa gawi nila Eleanor at Nathan dahil sa eksena ng magkasintahan. Dahil sa labis na inis, nasampal ni Nathan si Eleanor nang pagkalakas-lakas. Sa isang pitik ng daliri, tumuloy-tuloy na ang agos ng luha sa mata ni Eleanor buhat na rin sa labis na galit at lungkot. NATHAN Namumuro ka na ah! Punong-puno na ako sayo! Kung ganiyan ka lang rin, mabuti nang maghiwalay na lang tayo! ELEANOR Dapat lang! Maghiwalay na dapat tayo. Tumakbo si Eleanor palabas ng kainan habang mugto ang kaniyang mga mata kakaiyak. ELEANOR Ngayon lang ako nakaramdam ng labis na pagkapagod. Akala ko noon, magiging mabuti si Nathan sa akin dahil mahal na mahal niya ako. Pero bakit parang sumosobra na ang pananakit? Pati mga kaibigan ko, bakit parang ginagamit na lang nila ako? Nakakapagod pala maging mabait sa lahat ng tao. 5. INT. SILID-ARALAN. HAPON. Natapos na ang huling klase ni Eleanor para sa araw na iyon kaya naghahanda na siya umalis. Ngunit nang paalis na sana si Eleanor sa klase ay tinawag siya bigla ng kaniyang guro, si Gng. Lopez, upang kausapin. GNG. LOPEZ Eleanor, ano nang nangyayari sayo? Sunod-sunod na ang quizzes mo na mabababa ang mga scores. May problema ba? ELEANOR Hindi na po mauulit, Ma’am. Pasensya na po. ELEANOR Wala akong nagawa kundi ang humingi ng tawad. Mali naman kasi talaga ang nangyari. Kasalanan ko naman rin. Kasalanan ko kung bakit ako bumagsak bigla. Matapos ang hiwalayan namin ni Nathan, isang linggo rin akong nakalugmok sa aking kama at walang kakayahang gumawa ng kahit anong bagay. Para bang isa akong buhay na bangkay na lang. GNG. LOPEZ Hija, sa susunod na quiz, kailangang makakuha ka ng mataas na marka para mabawi mo ang ibang quizzes mo. Mas mainam kung ma-perfect mo pa. ELEANOR Opo, ma’am. Mag-aaral na po akong mabuti. GNG. LOPEZ Sige na, hija, pwede ka na umalis. Gusto ko lang ipaalala sayo na may scholarship kang kailangang alalayan. Matapos ang usapan ni Eleanor at ang kaniyang guro, nagpaalam na siya sa kaniyang guro at dali-daling tumakbo para habulin ang isa pa niyang guro. ELEANOR Sana maabutan ko pa si sir. Sana hindi pa siya nakakauwi. Sana tanggapin pa rin niya itong mga plate ko. Maipasa ko lang ito sa kaniya, ayos na ako. Nang malapit na si Eleanor sa faculty kung saan mahahanap niya ang kaniyang guro, natagpuan niya ito kaagad na kalalabas lang ng silid. Tinawag ni Eleanor ang guro mula sa malayo at agad itong lumingon kay Eleanor. ELEANOR Sir! Sir Ramos! G. RAMOS Oh, Eleanor. Dumidilim na, ha? Ano pang ginagawa mo rito? Nanginginig at kinakabahan na inabot ni Eleanor sa kaniyang guro ang kaniyang dalawang plates. ELEANOR Good evening po, Sir. Ah.. Eh. M-magpapasa po sana ako ng plates. G. RAMOS Hindi ba nabanggit ko sa orientation natin na hangga't maaari ayoko ng late submissions? ELEANOR Opo, sir. Pasensya na po. Baka po pwede niyo po akong pagbigyan. Ngayon lang po talaga ito, Sir. Hindi na po ito mauulit. G. RAMOS Oh, sige sige. Ito na ang magiging una at huling beses, hija. Tatanggapin ko lang 'yan ngayon dahil alam kong hindi ka talaga gano'n. May deductions din sa final score mo dahil late ka. ELEANOR Naiintindihan ko po, Sir. Salamat po! Salamat po talaga! 6 INT. KWARTO NI ELEANOR. MADALING ARAW ELEANOR Anong oras na ba? Inaantok na ako pero hindi pa ako pwede matulog. Pagod na ako. Pagod na pagod na. Pero bawal pang magpahinga. Tumayo na muna si Eleanor sa kaniyang inuupuan at kinuha niya ang kaniyang selpon sa bag para tignan ang oras. ELEANOR Hala ka! Alas-tres ng umaga na pala?! ‘Di ko na naman namalayan. Badtrip! ELEANOR Ilang linggo na akong kulang o walang tulog. Ilang araw ko na ring nasaksihan ang pagsikat ng araw sa aking bintana. Matutulog na parang isang segundong pikit lang. Problema rito, problema roon. Kailan ba kayo huhupa? ELEANOR Tama na, Eleanor. Tama na. Wala kang oras para mag-isip ng mga ganiyan. Bumalik na siya sa kaniyang upuan at sinubukang mag-aral muli. Hawak-hawak niya ang kaniyang panulat sa kaniyang kanang kamay nang biglang kumirot ang kaniyang ulo at mga mata. Sa sobrang sakit, napahawak siya sa gilid ng kaniyang ulo at pumikit muna. ELEANOR Utang na loob, Eleanor! ‘Wag ka munang bumigay. May quiz at plate ka pa. Maraming taong umaasa sayo kaya ‘wag ngayon. Nang humupa ng kaunti ang kaniyang iniindang sakit, naalala naman niya ang mga sinabi ng kaniyang guro. ELEANOR Mga designs ko! Hindi na raw katulad ng dati. Halatang may kulang na sa mga gawa ko. Ang pagkakulay nila ay maputla at matamlay. Pilit na pilit ang agos. ELEANOR ‘Yung quizzes, nag-aral naman ako para doon, ‘di ba? Bakit ang baba pa rin? Naglabas ng isang malalim na buntong hininga si Eleanor dahil sa pagkabigo sa sarili. ELEANOR Kulang na kulang ba ang aking ibinigay sa iba? Bakit parang hindi pa sapat ang aking pag-aaral kaya nakakuha ako ng mababang marka? Baka naman talaga ‘di ko deserve ‘to, in the first place. Ginagawa ko naman ang lahat, ‘di ba? Lintek, hindi pala. Inuna ko kasi ang sarili ko kamakailan. Hindi nga pala dapat ganoon. ‘Yung inaksaya kong oras sa pagmukmok ay dapat tinuon ko na lang sa pagaaral at paggawa ng plates. Masiyado kong inisip na may nawawalang parte sa sarili ko. Kahit totoo naman. Dapat nga pala iba muna bago ako. Kasalanan ko palang inuna ko ang sarili. Ang damot ko naman. 7 INT. OSPITAL. UMAGA. NANAY Ang anak ko! Pagalingin niyo po yung anak ko, dok. Parang-awa niyo na po. ELEANOR Sirena. Mga tao. Hikbi. Naramdaman ko ang init mula sa matinding paghagkan sa aking katawan. NANAY Anak, nandito lang ako, ha? Nandito lang ako kaya magpagaling ka lang diyan. Miss ko na ‘yung ngiti mong parang araw sa liwanag na dala sa’kin. Patawarin mo ang Nanay dahil wala ako sa tabi mo noong kailangan mo ako. Wag kang mag-aala— ELEANOR Nagising ako dahil sa sinag ng araw na tumapat sa aking mukha. Puting-puti sa liwanag. May tunog ng makina. Pinakiramdaman ko ang aking sarili, masakit at mabigat parin ang aking ulo. ELEANOR Nanay? J-Jake? Mia? N-Nathan? Saktong may kumatok sa pinto at pumasok na doktor at nurse. NANAY Anak ko! Gising na ang anak ko! Ang tagal mo namang gumising, anak ko. Hindi napigilang maiyak ang nanay ni Eleanor sa harap nito. Sinuklian naman ni Eleanor ng isang yakap upang maiparamdam nito na mas maayos na siya. NANAY Nagkaroon ka raw ng fatigue, ‘nak. Siguro'y dala ng stress sa pag-aaral. Dok, maaari po bang kausapin ko muna ng masinsinan ang aking anak?" Biglang nagsalita ang kaniyang nanay. Tumitig si Eleanor sa doktor ngunit agad ring binawi nito ang tingin mula sa doktor. ELEANOR Sasabihan na naman ako ng mga bagay na kunyari alam nila. Sino ba sila at kung makapayo ay parang kilalang-kilala nila ang pinagdadaanan ko. Narinig sa buong silid ang unti-unting pagsara ng pinto ng lumabas ang nars at doktor. NANAY Alam kong ayaw mong marinig sa akin ito, pero kailangan mo itong marinig. Nailabas mo na ba lahat? Mas maayos ka na ba ngayon kaysa sa kahapon? Napalingon si Eleanor sa kaniyang nanay na tila’y kumalma mula sa pag-hagulgol nito kanina at blangko itong tumugon. ELEANOR Walang dapat ikumpara dahil ang ngayon at kahapon ay walang pinagbago. ELEANOR Alam kong mali na ipahamak ko yung sarili ko, pero tao lang rin ako. Napapagod. Pero bakit ang galing niyong magtago ng lungkot at sakit? Kasalanan ko bang para akong tubig na madaling umapaw? Kailangan nga ako ng karamihan pero hindi niyo ba naiisip na darating rin yung oras na mauubos rin ako? Na kailangan ko rin nang makakapitan? ELEANOR Hindi ko mapigilan magsalita dala ng bigat sa aking dibdib. Alam kong sa maling tao ko pinapahitawag yung nararamdaman ko. Pero ito yung unang pagkakataon na binigyan ako ng tiyansa na magsalita kesa sa makinig lamang. NANAY Anak, tignan mo ako. Nasaan ba ako? Nasa harap mo ako, handang tumulong at sumuporta sayo. Simula nang ipinanganak kita, ako na yung kasama mo dito sa mundo at hinding-hindi iyon magbabago. Nagkatitigan ang mag-ina at unti-unting pinagsaklob ng nanay ni Eleanor ang kanilang mga kamay. NANAY Ang mga taong dumating at darating sa buhay mo, alam kong mas nakakasama mo sila. Maaari ring mas pinapahalagahan mo sila kaysa sa akin. Ayos lang ‘yon, anak. Pero, ano nga ba ang saysay ng buhay kung patuloy kang naghahangad ng atensyon at pagmamahal sa mga taong hindi naman nakikita ang halaga mo? ELEANOR Nay, si Nathan.. Wala naman akong ibang ginawa kundi ang mahalin siya, ‘di ba? Pero bakit nauna siyang sumuko sa ‘amin’? Si Mia at Jake, nandiyan ako lagi para sa kanila pero kapag ako na ang nasa katayuan nila, para akong hanging hindi nila makita-kita. Nakakapagod ba ako? Hindi ko mapigilan ang pwersa ng mga hikbi mula sa aking dibdib. Para akong bumalik sa pagkabata dahil sa pag-iyak. NANAY Nandito ako Eleanor, oh. Lagi’t lagi akong handang pakinggan, anak. Pati ang harapin at mahalin ka, kahit minsan hindi kita maintindihan. Sa tuwing uuwi ka sa bahay na malungkot, palagi akong nakaabang sa sala para hainan ka ng paborito mong meryenda at iniisip kung anong nasa isip mo. ELEANOR Hindi mo naman ako maiintindihan, e. Sasabihin mo lang wala naman ‘yan sa pinagdaraanan niyo. NANAY Hindi ko man agarang mapapawi ‘yang lungkot at sakit sa dibdib mo, pero handa akong makinig, anak. Kahit ‘yun lang, hayaang mo iparamdam ko sa’yo iyon. Alam kong nararamdaman mong parating puro ka bigay. Pero ngayong alam mong ubos ka na, handa akong maghandog ng parte ng sarili ko para sayo, anak. Hagulgol ni Eleanor ang umalingawngaw sa buong silid. Kahit sa isang saglit, naramdaman niyang may kakampi siya sa laban ng buhay. Ang bawat haplos ng pagmamahal ng kaniyang nanay ang nagwawalis sa mga mumunting bubog mula sa puso niyang may lamat. 8 INT. OSPITAL. HAPON Kinabukasan, mugto pa rin ang mga mata ni Eleanor. Binalitaan siya na dadalaw raw sa ospital ang kaniyang ex-boyfriend at mga kaibigan. NANAY Anak, tinext nga pala ako kanina nina Nathan. Dadalaw raw sila ngayong araw. ELEANOR Ha?! Pumayag ka, ‘Nay? Hindi pa ako handang makipag-usap. Pwede bang next week na lang kamo? A-ayok-” NANAY Ilang araw na silang nangungulit sa akin na dalawin ka. Pagbigyan mo na at bukas ay uuwi na tayo sa bahay. Magandang mag-usap muna kayo bago ka tuluyang magpahinga sa bahay ng maayos, anak. Mas maganda ang pahinga kapag payapa ang diwa." ELEANOR Sige, Eleanor. Usap lang, ha? Hindi mo pa kayang makipag-ayos. Natatakot ka pa, ‘di ba? Hinawakan ng nanay ni Eleanor ang nanginginig na mga kamay ni Eleanor, na tila ba’y alam ang nasa isip ng anak. NANAY Basta nandito lang ako anak, ha? Alam mo naman yung napag-usapan natin kahapon. Kung paano mo binuhos sa akin ‘yang damdamin mo ay ganoon ka rin sanang maging bukas sa kanila. Hindi kita minamadali sa desisyon, anak. Pero paalala ko lang. Unahin mo ngayon ang sarili mo, anak. Katok mula sa pinto ang sumira sa malalim na usapan ng mag-ina. Pumasok ang ex-boyfriend at mga kaibigan ni Eleanor mula sa pinto. NANAY Nathan, Mia, Jake! Nag-abala pa kayo, mga ‘nak, at karami ninyong mga dalang prutas. Nagmano ang mga bisita ni Eleanor sa kaniyang nanay. Hindi mapalagay ang mga ito sapagkat labis-labis ang kanilang pagsisisi sa sarili dahil sa naging sitwasyon ni Eleanor. Nagpaalam at umalis na ang nanay ni Eleanor nang lumapit ang tatlo sa higaan ni Eleanor. Nakakabinging katahimikan, nang biglang basagin ito ni Mia. MIA Ilang araw ka nang hindi pumapasok, Eleanor, kaya tinawagan ko na si Tita. Nag-alala ang mga kaklase natin ‘saka mga guro natin. JAKE Nagustuhan rin pala ni Clara ‘yung mga napili mong bulaklak, Eleanor. Gusto niyang magpasalamat sayo ngayon kaso may pasok pa siya kaya ako na lang yung gumawa para sa kaniya. Alanganing mga sambit nila Mia at Jake sabay ngiti kay Eleanor. Nagulantang ang mga ito nang suklian ni Eleanor ang kanilang mga sinabi ng isang malamig na titig sa kawalan. Ibang-iba sa masiyahing Eleanor na kanilang nakasanayan. NATHAN Eleanor, kumusta ka na? Magaling ka na ba? Pasensya ka na at nasaktan kita noong nagkita tayo. Alam kong wala nang tayo pero gusto ko pa ring humingi ng tawad sa pagtr- ELEANOR Nandito ba kayo para sa akin? O nandito kayo para maisalba ang mga sarili ninyo? Naiinis ako. Alam ko namang nag-aalala sila pero bakit parang iba ang dating ng mga sinasabi nila sa akin ngayon. Ganito ba ‘pag sanay na mataksilan? MIA Eleanor, anong sinasabi mo? Siyempre nandito kami para sayo. Nag-unahang nagsalita si Mia at Jake ngunit tahimik lang na umiwas ng tingin si Nathan mula kay Eleanor at umatras. ELEANOR (confronting them in her imagination) Sus, nahiya pa kayo. Parang mga others naman. Ang sabihin niyo, ginagawa niyo lang ito para malinis niyo na ang mga konsensiya niyo. Oo! Eh kung patawarin ko kayo ngayon, may magbabago ba sa atin? Sa akin? Ganon pa rin ‘di ba? Kayo, malaya kayong magsaya sa buhay pagkatapos nito, pero ako? Patuloy ko pa ring makukwestiyon ang sarili ko kung saan ba ako nagkulang talaga. Yung sobra-sobra kong pagmamahal ba ang kulang? Gusto ko lang ilabas lahat ng naipon kong sama ng loob. Dahil paano ako makakatanggap ng panibagong pagmamahal mula sa ibang tao kung punong-puno ako ng sama ng loob? Paano ko mapapatawad ang sarili ko kung hindi ko pa rin matanggap ang naging situwasyon? Hanggang ngayon ay sa kisame lang nakatitig si Eleanor. Walang reaksyon. Walang emosyong bumubugso. Hanggang isip lang ang abilidad ng kaniyang pag-kumpronta. Natatakot na tignan ang mga reaksyon nila, dahil agaran itong nakokonsensya. ELEANOR Pero para sa’yo ‘to, Eleanor. Ito na’ng oras para masampal sila ng katotohanan. Kailangan mo silang harapin para makausad ka ulit. Biglang hinawakan ni Eleanor ang mga kamay ni Mia at Jake at tumugon. ELEANOR Okay lang ako, guys. Huwag na kayong mag-alala sa akin. Magiging ayos rin ako. Pwede na kayong umalis at baka nakaabala pa ako sa mga plano niyo. Salamat sa pagbisita. Tumayo si Eleanor at naglakad siya papunta sa bintana sa kaniyang silid. Hirap na hirap siya sa dextrose na nakatusok sa kamay niya. Natatabunan ang kaniyang mukha mula sa dahan-dahang pagsayaw ng mga kurtina dahil sa hangin. 9 INT. BINTANA SA SILID NG OSPITAL. DAPIT-HAPON. ELEANOR Napagtanto kong masaya ako kapag masaya ang mga tao sa paligid ko. Pero alam kong may kulang pa rin. Isang buntong-hiningang ngiti ang tanging naipinta ng mga labi ni Eleanor habang nagdidili-dili. Habang tanaw ang langit mula sa bintana, ramdam ang panginginig ng aking mga kamay at ang pagbilis ng pintig ng puso. ELEANOR Sinabi kong ayos lang ako, kahit alam kong ramdam rin nila ang totoong nilalaman ng aking puso. Pero ayos na ‘yun. Ang sarili ko ang importante mula ngayon. Sapat na sa akin ang tahimik na paglakad palayo sa kanila - mula sa pagkalunod sa kumunoy na kanilang nabuo. Nakalimutan kong unahin ang sarili ko at magsaya sa buhay. Nakalimutan kong pagtagpiin ang mga galos sa kalooban, at purihin ang sarili sa mga maliliit na tagumpay sa kabila ng mga pagsubok na muntik at tuluyan kong nasukuan. Pero salamat pa rin sa inyo, dahil hindi ko mauunawaan ang mga ito kung hindi dahil sa mga ginawa niyo. Kahit ang sakit ay pang-habambuhay, pipilitin kong isipin na aral ito para sa aking paglalakbay. Maghihintay ako sa bagong [mapanakit] na bukas.

“The Multiverse has never been so Emotional” Written by: JF Nichols Cortez Layout by: Mauri Francisco Imagine being on a rollercoaster that increases the height of its tracks exponentially with every passing second, but due to its loops and turns, the change in elevation generally goes unnoticed. At the pinnacle height near the end of the ride, you are at an altitude higher than mountains, higher than the sky, and higher than any feelings have taken you. As the final dive begins, you realize that every loop and turn has brought you to this moment and that everything—all the laughs, screams, and tears—meant something on this ride. On its descent, you are bombarded with a further inexplicable mix of excitement, sorrow, and hope as you are confused by how a ride could depict the undepictable. That ride is the movie “Everything, Everywhere, All at Once,” directed by Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert. It follows the struggles of Evelyn Wang (Michelle Yeoh), whose cluttered life takes a weird, yet thrilling, turn of events when she is forced to embark on a vastly unpredictable journey with the concepts of the multiverse and the looming threat to its existence known as Jobu Tupaki. In her pursuits, Evelyn had to confront the consequences born from her decisions and disputes in her relationship with her husband, Waymond Wang (Ke Huy Quan), her daughter, Joy Wang (Stephanie Hsu), and her father, Gong Gong (James Hong). Even for someone without an eye for technicality, one could appreciate the cinematic beauty of the movie. From its powerful, sometimes comedic, use of music to its astonishing and playful visual effects, the movie has done justice to the chaotic nature of the multiverse. Another indispensable element of this piece of art is the range and depth of acting that the cast portrayed. However, what truly made this movie stand out in an era of great movies was the underlying themes that motivated the plot. Among these relevant and compelling themes that were masterfully incorporated are the following: Mediocrity and Perfection This movie portrayed the strain and sacrifice of the mediocre in a world that only cares about perfection that doesn’t exist. It provides a comfortable place for a well-needed cathartic release as it reminds you that YOU are more important and more interesting than the success you strive for. The Awkward Glass Wall There exists a glass wall that separates a parent and child, allowing them to see and understand one another without truly connecting. Either party must be willing to break that glass and reconcile with the insurmountable amount of trauma, pressure, and the awkwardness it brings lest only leave shattered glass that scars and hurts. Simple Love. Simple Joy. It is the simplest love that brings joy. Love does not have to be perfect and magnanimous; it just needs to be real and enduring. However, despite its gracefully interwoven elements, this movie might not be suited for the Filipino community. Or rather, the Filipino community is not ready for a movie that challenges the traditional, explores the unorthodox, and discusses the avoided. Yet, it is what they need—a mind-boggling film that can ignite an overdue discussion about family, love, and perfection. So, go experience everything, everywhere, all at once. For at the end of this rollercoaster ride, the explosion of emotions you felt culminates into but a single feeling—appreciation of everything that makes up your life at that moment.

Written by: Mary Angela Aquino Illustrated by: Mauri Francisco Isang Gen Z, nasa Noli at El Fili?! A historical portal fantaserye, Maria Clara at Ibarra reimagines Jose Rizal’s historical novels—Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. It circles around the story of Binibining Klay, a gen Z who traveled back during the time of Binibining Maria Clara and Ginoong Crisostomo Ibarra, who are fictional characters in Rizal’s novels. The TV series depicts historical events, which teaches the importance of history, empathy, patriotism, and love. Started in the modern world, Binibining Klay is a nursing student who was tasked to read Noli Me Tangere for her Rizal Studies subject. One day, she woke up in the world of the novel and was able to meet the characters such as Maria Clara, Crisostomo Ibarra, and Padre Damaso, among others. She cannot go back to the present until she finishes the story and learns her lesson; hence, she is living day-by-day and tries to save the characters by attempting to change their fates. It is both a modern and informative way of retelling the classic works of our national hero. The series used the isekai concept, a Japanese portal fantasy genre where the main character transports to other worlds. At the same time, viewers get to gain not only knowledge about the novels of Rizal but also a deeper understanding of our history—how our ancestors lived, how the system worked, how their ideologies differed from each other, and how the culture was during Spanish colonialism. The storyline may not be fresh and new as it is based on novels, but the integration of fantasy and modern life makes it catchy and interesting. It is creatively written and remarkably produced, considering that it openly touches relevant social issues, such as women’s rights, education, abuse of power and influence, social inequality, and labor, among others. The actors and actresses are also effective in their portrayal of the fictional characters as they bring viewers on a roller coaster emotional ride through their acting. It definitely hooks viewers to keep track of the episodes as they reach million views on Youtube. Maria Clara at Ibarra is a must-needed fantaserye in helping the film and entertainment industry flourish, as the issue of the industry’s decline in the Philippines surfaces. It is a TV series meant to entertain viewers, enlighten learners, and mirror both history and reality. Definitely a show worth watching! Watch the Maria Clara at Ibarra series here: https://www.gmanetwork.com/fullepisodes/home/maria_clara_at_ibarra

Written by: Mark Rafael Santos and Szarina dela Paz Photos by: Julia Beatriz Galvez The Engineering Student Council (ESC) launched the annual Engineering Recruitment Week, titled “R101: Engineering Recruitment Week,” last October 17, with applications still held virtually. The virtual week-long event commenced with a Facebook Live featuring organizations in the Faculty of Engineering (FoE), giving glimpses of the experiences and responsibilities awaiting the student applicants. Prof. Angelo R. dela Cruz, Ph.D., PECE, UST FoE Acting Dean, officially kickstarted the event with his opening remarks, acknowledging the efforts of the organizations and their participation in the event. He recalled the lessons people learned and lost in the time of the pandemic, its disruption in people’s way of life, and how those brought out the best in each person. "With all the lost opportunities in the past three years of the pandemic, we hope that many of our students will not miss this opportunity to participate, be involved, and become a member of the student organizations of the Faculty of Engineering,” Dean dela Cruz elaborated. In the opening program, titled “R101: Prologue,” one student leader from each engineering department and how they were able to manage both their academics and extracurricular activities. The representatives shared the importance of time management in being an organization member and a student. They gave tips on how to balance their responsibilities, such as avoiding procrastination and learning how to prioritize tasks properly. Management applications such as Notion and TimeTree were a couple of the softwares suggested by the speakers that would assist students in managing their time. This was succeeded with films-inspired introduction of the different organizations and an audio-visual presentation showcasing their organization’s mission, vision, and benefits to its members. Carlos Joaquin T. Dimaguila, UST-ESC Interim Executive Vice-President, formally commenced the event with his closing remarks where he expressed his gratitude to the organizers and attendees of the event and reminded student applicants that serving the student body is a commitment to uphold everyday. “The pleasure in leading is not [through] title-seeking but the [through] people you transform and those hearts you have touched,” he concluded his speech. The following organizations participated in this year’s Engineering Recruitment Week: Rotaract Club – UST Engineering Unit, Cisco Networking Academy Gateway (CNAG), UST Engineering Commission on Elections (COMELEC), One Voice Engineering Chorale (OV), UST Chemical Engineering Society (ChES), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (UST-IEEE) Student Branch, UST Electrical Engineering Circuit (EEC), UST Mechanical Engineering Club (MEC), American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-conditioning Engineers- UST (ASHRAE), Engineering Dance Troupe (EDT), UST Network of Electronics Engineering Students (NECES), UST Association of Civil Engineering Students (ACES), UST Industrial Engineering Circle (IEC), Operations Research Society of the Philippines – UST Chapter (ORSP), and Thomasian Engineer (TE) – the student publication of UST FoE.