ABSTRACT

Title:             DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF A LOCALIZED LEARNING MODULES IN GENERAL CHEMISTRY 2

Name:         Joan A. Riparip                   

Degree:       Master of Arts in Education

                     Major in Physical Science

Institution:    Tarlac State University

The study aimed to develop and validate localized learning modules that contain the least learned competencies of students in General Chemistry 2. The least learned topics were under the four Chapters - Intermolecular Forces and Solids and Liquids, Physical Properties of Solutions, Thermochemistry, and Chemical Kinetics. The learning modules were carefully designed and followed the principles of localization and contextualization. 106 Grade 11 students used the learning modules as an attempt to improve their competencies in General Chemistry 2. Findings showed that experts rated the content very satisfactory, with means ranging from 3.25 to 4.0. The format, including print, illustration, design, layout, paper quality, and size, was also rated very satisfactory. The total score of 18.40 for presentation and organization, and 24 for overall evaluation, indicated that the learning modules meet the Department of Education standards. In addition, the t-test value to compare the pretest and posttest scores is 36. 58 and the p-value is <0.05, leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. There is a significant difference between the pretest and posttest scores. The study concludes that the localized learning modules were effective in enhancing the competencies of the students. The study recommends the development of localized learning modules in other Chemistry topics. Additionally, teachers should be trained on how to effectively integrate these localized and contextualized modules into their teaching strategies, ensuring that they can fully leverage the familiarity and relevance of the content to boost student comprehension and engagement.

Key Words: development, validation, localized learning modules, General Chemistry 2, pretest, posttest, experts

DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13680479

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ABSTRACT

The study aimed to determine the reading difficulties of grade one pupils in Lagadlarin/ Olo-Olo Elementary School. It is intended to contribute in the body of knowledge about how to practice reading for children. Specifically, it targeted to determine the reading performance of the children and to identify their reading ability. The study used the quantitative method of research. The subject of this study was the 60 grade one pupils from Lagadlarin/ Olo-Olo Elementary School. The technique in analyzing data of this research was the descriptive technique.

Specifically, it sought answer to the following questions:

1. What are the reading performance of grade one pupils in the following skills:

1.1           recognition of c-v-c words

1.2           recognition of Dolch Basic Sight Words

1.3           understanding words, phrases, and sentences?

2. How may the grade one pupils be characterized in terms of their reading ability, such as;

2.1           word reader

2.2           syllable reader

2.3           non- reader

3. Is there significant relationship between the reading skills and reading ability of grade one pupils?

4. What learning activities may be proposed to enhance pupils’ reading abilities?

In the context of the foregoing findings, the following conclusions are hereby drawn by the researcher.

1. The reading performance of grade one pupils is in the fair level.

2. The reading ability of the grade one pupils in English is syllable reader.

3. There is a significant relationship between the reading skills and reading ability of grade one pupils.

4. Proposed learning activities may help improve the reading skills and reading ability of the grade one pupils.

         After going through the conclusions supported by the findings on the study, the researcher hereby presents the following recommendations.

1. Reading performance skills may stimulate pupils to join in a repeated reading of a book with memorable phrases or sound effects and added gestures.

2. The proposed learning activities may be employed to allow pupils exhibit their understanding of readings in many ways. These activities will reassure them to make connections between reading passages and their knowledge.

3. The results of this study may be presented to the Public Schools District Supervisors and to the school heads for further comments before implementing the proposed learning activities by the Grade 1 teachers.

4. Similar studies may be recommended based on the results after the implementation of the proposed learning activities to enhance pupils’ reading abilities.

DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13683387 

Abstract

This study aims to optimize and construct team cooperation mechanisms in teacher management, with a focus on teachers at Jinan Vocational College. Utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research methods, the study employed surveys, in-depth interviews, and case analyses, surveying 100 teachers to explore the impact of team cooperation on work efficiency, teaching effectiveness, and job satisfaction.

Initially, a survey was conducted to gather data on teachers' satisfaction with existing management mechanisms and their needs for team cooperation. This was followed by in-depth interviews with 20 teachers to gain insights into their experiences and challenges related to team cooperation in practice. Finally, successful case studies were analyzed to examine the effects of various team cooperation mechanisms on optimizing teacher management.

The results indicate that constructing effective team cooperation mechanisms can significantly enhance teachers' collaborative abilities, innovation capacity, and teaching quality. Based on these findings, the study proposes a framework for optimizing team cooperation mechanisms, including aspects such as role allocation, communication strategies, and incentive systems. This framework provides theoretical support and practical recommendations for teacher management in vocational institutions.

Keywords: Team Cooperation Mechanisms, Teacher Management, Vocational Education, Teaching Effectiveness, Mechanism Optimization

DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13683807 

ABSTRACT

Title:                         SOCIOECONOMIC STATUS AND PSYCHOLOGICAL WELLBEING OF SCHOOL NURSES IN CENTRAL LUZON, PHILIPPINES

Researcher:             ARTHUR G. SOTTO

Institution:                TARLAC STATE UNIVERSITY

                                 COLLEGE OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATIONAND GOVERNANCE

                                 TARLAC, CITY

Degree:                   DOCTOR OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION

MAJOR IN ADMINISTRATION FOR SOCIOECONOMIC DEVELOPEMT

The concept of socioeconomic status and psychological wellbeing is essentially complex considering it covers a person's assessment of the social, economic, psychological, and physical resources necessitate to conquer a social, psychological, or physical obstacle. The delineation of psychological wellbeing, which is an integrative notion that describes quality of life with respect to an individual's health and work-related environmental, organizational, and psychosocial factors.

The study determined the socioeconomic status and psychological wellbeing of school nurses of Central Luzon in the Department of Education. The descriptive-correlational method utilized in the study. This study assessed school nurses on decision-making and coping mechanisms considering the demands of the profession. It analyzed a variety of circumstances, some of which they can control, affecting their physical and mental health.

The study conducted in the 20 schools’ division of the Department of Education in Central Luzon namely, Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales, Angeles City, Balanga City, Cabanatuan City, Gapan City, Mabalacat City, Malolos City, Meycauayan City, Olangapo City, San Fernando City, San Jose City, San Jose del Monte, Science City of Munos and Tarlac City. Hence, the researcher came up with 166 samples out of 291 total populations.

The researcher adapted survey instrument of Standford SPARQ Tools and the respondents rated each item using the five-point Likert-type scale. Thus, permission to carry out the research was obtained from the DepEd Central Luzon Regional Director along with to the superintendent of each school’s division. A Google Form was sent via Messenger to each medical director of each division to forward to the division nurses for them to answer the questions. To maintain the confidentiality of all the concerns, the retrieval of questionnaire tool for each division was secured. After all the documents had been collected, totaled, and tabulated.

The respondent’s psychological wellbeing was ranked for the analysis of the data between the six categories. Autonomy got the highest grand mean with 4.19, and positive relations, on the other hand, was the lowest among them all with a grand mean of 3.11. Trust issues among others and peers were the number one problem that occurred. 

The study examined into the vulnerabilities faced by school nurses, emphasizing their socioeconomic status and psychological wellbeing. It stresses the significance of improving working conditions and wellbeing to retain and recruit nurses, indirectly enhancing healthcare services for students. Insights from the study can guide strategies to prevent burnout and promote health equity, informing policy development and advocacy efforts. Overall, the research offers valuable insights for bolstering the school health workforce, fostering health and wellbeing among students and communities in Central Luzon.

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DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13702714 

Driven by the wave of globalization, brand internationalization has become a key strategy for enterprises to expand their markets, enhance competitiveness, and achieve sustainable development. Especially in the mobile phone industry, the trend of brand internationalization is particularly significant. As the world's largest producer and consumer of mobile phones, China has emerged as a group of emerging brands in the international market, such as Huawei, Xiaomi, OPPO, and Vivo. These enterprises not only dominate the domestic market, but also demonstrate strong competitiveness in the global market. However, facing the complex and ever-changing international market environment, these brands have encountered many challenges and opportunities in the process of internationalization. Firstly, brand internationalization requires companies to have a deep understanding of local consumer needs, cultural differences, and market structure when entering new markets, in order to develop effective market entry and marketing strategies. Secondly, the balance between globalization and localization of brand positioning and brand image is an important issue that must be addressed in the process of brand internationalization. Chinese mobile phone brands generally adopt differentiation strategies in brand positioning, attracting consumers from different markets through technological innovation, cost-effectiveness advantages, and unique brand culture. In addition, product localization strategy is also the key to the success of brand internationalization. In order to meet the needs of consumers in different countries and regions, Chinese mobile phone brands have made large-scale localization adjustments in product design, functional configuration, and after-sales service. For example, when entering the European market, Huawei pays special attention to cooperation with local telecommunications operators to ensure that its products can smoothly enter the market and gain consumer recognition. Xiaomi, on the other hand, quickly established a loyal overseas user base through its online marketing and community interaction strategies. Finally, distribution and supply chain management also play a crucial role in the process of brand internationalization. 

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DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13740919 

The declining quality of education in the Philippines is a deeply concerning issue, as it affects not only the future of individual students but also the nation’s overall development. Education is the foundation for economic progress, social mobility, and national competitiveness, and the apparent decline undermines these critical pillars.

One of the key factors contributing to this decline is the lack of resources, especially in public schools. Many schools face shortages of classrooms, learning materials, and adequately trained teachers. These deficits create a challenging environment for both educators and students, making it difficult to deliver quality education. The gaps in digital infrastructure, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, have further exacerbated these inequalities.

Another factor is the curriculum, which many argue has become outdated or too overloaded, leaving students underprepared for real-world challenges. The rapid evolution of global standards in education demands more emphasis on critical thinking, technology, and communication skills. However, the current system often leans heavily on rote memorization, which limits the development of problem-solving and creative abilities that are essential in today’s fast-paced world.

The quality of teacher training and professional development is also a concern. Many teachers enter the profession without sufficient pedagogical training, while those already in the system may lack opportunities for continuous learning and improvement. This stagnation in teacher quality directly impacts student performance, as effective teaching is central to educational success.

Additionally, socioeconomic factors, such as poverty and lack of parental involvement, play a role in the declining quality of education. Many students struggle to focus on their studies due to financial difficulties, while others drop out to help their families earn a living. This, in turn, contributes to the increasing dropout rates and lower academic achievement.

In my view, addressing these challenges requires systematic reform, starting with increased investment in education infrastructure and teacher development. Policymakers need to prioritize education funding to ensure that schools are equipped with the necessary resources, technology, and trained personnel. Revisiting and modernizing the curriculum to make it relevant to the current and future needs of students is also critical.

In conclusion, the decline in the quality of education in the Philippines is a multifaceted issue that calls for urgent and holistic intervention. Without significant changes, the country risks widening the gap in global competitiveness and limiting opportunities for its youth to thrive n a fast-changing world. 

DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13744267 

ABSTRACT

Title:         GUIDED READING PROGRAM IN KEY STAGE 2 LEARNERS AT STA.MARIA   

                     ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Name:        Jennalyn G. Torres

Degree:      Master of Arts in Education

                     Major in Guidance and Counseling

Institution:   Osias Colleges, Inc.

The study employed the quasi-experimental research design in gathering data and information, using the pretest-posttest evaluation which allows immediate assessment of the intervention on guided reading. The participants of the study are the 26 learners from key stage 2 of Sta. Maria Elementary School, who are in the frustration level and non- decoders based on the pretest Phil IRI reading assessment. Oral reading passages were used as the research instruments for the pretest and posttests like the Great Runner, a text from the Philippine Informal Reading Inventory (Phil IRI) Manual.

It was revealed that there is an increase in the word recognition of the learners. There is a significant increase between the reading performance of the key stage 2 from pre -test to post test. The researcher has marked the following challenges encountered by the learners. Under the areas of word recognition, disregard punctuation ranked first as it was a committed error by the learners, followed by mispronunciation, lack of expression, refusal to pronounce and voice is hardly audible. An action plan was proposed to address the challenges. The school administration should support their teachers to equip themselves through trainings, seminars an

workshops to enhance their knowledge for better implementation of Guided Reading Program.

Keywords: word recognition, Phil IRI, mispronunciation, lack of expressions

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DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13765045 

ABSTRACT

Title:             LITERACY ADVENTURES: FUSING TRADITIONAL FILIPINO GAMES WITH LETTER ACTIVITIES FOR IMPROVING KINDERGARTEN LITERACY SKILLS.

Researcher: CATTLEYA G. OGUES

Degree:       MASTER OF ARTS IN EDUCATION

Major:          EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

Institution:    OSIAS COLLEGES, INC.

         This study investigated the impact of integrating traditional Filipino games with letter activities on the literacy skills of kindergarten learners at Mamonit Elementary School. The research addressed the pressing need to enhance literacy skills among kindergarten learners by employing culturally relevant and engaging instructional strategies. A quasi-experimental design was utilized, with pretest and posttests administered to assess the effects of the intervention.

The study revealed that most of the kindergarten learners’ level of literacy skills before fusing traditional Filipino games is beginning. After fusing the traditional Filipino games, several codes were derived like enhanced motor skills and letter J recognition through the interactive play of Piko; teamwork and strategic thinking with letter H activities in Tumbang Preso; coordination and creativity through letter K in Chinese Garter; letter Y recognition and cultural appreciation through Nanay-tatay game; spatial awareness with letter V activities in Langit Lupa and improved fine motor skills and letter Q in Pitik Bulag. The theme therefore: Enhanced Kindergarten Literacy Skills through games resulted to consistent level. Hence, there is a significant difference on the literacy skills of the kindergarten learners before and after fusing traditional Filipino games with letter activities.

The study recommends conducting baseline literacy assessments and creating individualized learning plans that incorporate traditional Filipino games to increase interest and skills. Additionally, combine these games with letter activities to create dynamic and engaging learning experiences. Lastly, implement the proposed action plan using the traditional Filipino games with letter activities, as they have shown significant improvement in kindergarten literacy skills.

Keywords: game-based, letter activities, culturally relevant instruction.

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DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13765145 

Title                          :       Work Immersion Experiences and Challenges       Encountered

of Tech-voc Senior High School Students

Researcher              :       Chary S. Monis

Degree                                :       Doctor of Education, Major in Educational Management

Institution                 :       Tarlac State University

ABSTRACT

One of the course requirements for senior high school students to graduate is the work immersion program, which aims to better prepare the students to pursue higher education, manage a business, and find employment.

This study was intended to identify the first-hand experiences in the implementation of work immersion and the challenges encountered by the tech-voc students, which served as the basis for the proposed contextualized TVL work immersion program for senior high school.

The researcher used a qualitative approach to research—case analysis. An interview was conducted among the tech-voc senior high school graduates among the selected TVL schools.

The researcher found that the research participants experienced a warm welcome from the partner industry, positive interaction among co-workers and superiors, good and constructive feedback, and exemplary work ethics. In addition, they have shared the personal impact of work immersion, such as in employment, higher education, entrepreneurship, and middle-level skill development. However, different challenges were encountered by the participants, specifically work immersion duration, punctuality issues, and skills misalignment.

Keywords: Work Immersion, Experiences, Challenges, and Senior High School Students

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DOI 1 10.5281/zenodo.13765199 

Title:                     RESEARCH CHARACTERISTICS AND CHALLENGES OF DEPED:

TOWARDS A PROPOSED PROGRAM

Researcher:             Joana Rose M. Espiritu

Degree:                   Doctor of Education

Major:                      Educational Management

Institution:                Tarlac State University

ABSTRACT

This study examined the research characteristics and challenges of mega national high schools with SBM Level III status of practice in the region. Particularly, it attempted to (1) describe DepEd – Region III’s research characteristics along the areas of institutional, individual and leadership; (2) determine the challenges encountered by school heads in facilitating research; (3) propose a research program to address these challenges; and (4) draw implications from the proposed program to educational management. The descriptive research design was employed to address these. Using the Cochran’s formula and through stratified and chain-referral system of snowball sampling, 53 school heads and 385 secondary school teachers were considered adequate representatives of the participants. Confirmations of existing research characteristics were recorded using a modified checklist-questionnaire based on the tools of Iqbal, Jalal and Mahmood (2018) and Adekunle and Madukoma (2022) while challenges encountered were determined through a self-structured checklist-questionnaire.

These research characteristics were all evident in DepEd secondary schools; whereas, challenges encountered stemmed from limited research orientation and prioritization; hence, the proposal of a program which decentralizes research management through a school research committee tasked to structure and supervise activities meant to further enhance research expertise, experience and motivations; utilization shall be achieved through research presentations and expansion of reach shall be attained through publication of relevant findings.

         Keywords: Research Characteristics, Challenges, Research Program

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DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13765265 

Sa Barangay Pook sa bayan ng Taal, nakatira ang masayahing si Rondina, isang batang kilala sa kanilang lugar dahil sa kanyang masiglang personalidad. Siya'y anak nina Aling Ansing at Mang Mando, at madalas magdala ng saya sa paligid. Gayunpaman, may mga pagkakataong ang kanyang ingay ay nagiging labis, lalo na sa mga oras na hindi ito naaangkop.

Isang umaga, habang tahimik na nagpapahinga ang mga kapitbahay, umalingawngaw ang malalakas na tawa ni Rondina mula sa kanilang bakuran. “Rondina! Bakit ang aga-aga, sobrang lakas ng tawa mo? Natutulog pa ang mga tao!” sabi ni Aling Ansing, medyo iritado. “Rondina, hinay-hinay sa ingay, anak. Maging maingat ka sa oras!” dagdag ni Mang Mando mula sa sala. Ngunit tila walang narinig si Rondina at nagpatuloy sa kanyang tawanan, kumakaripas ng takbo patungo sa hardin. Natuwa si Rondina sa mga bulaklak na nakita niya. “Wow, ang gaganda ng mga bulaklak dito! Kay saya namang pumitas!” sabi niya habang namimitas at inaamoy ang mga ito. Dahil sa labis na pagkaaliw, hindi niya napansin ang mabilis na paglipas ng oras. Naamoy niya ang masarap na niluluto ni Aling Ansing at dali-daling pumasok sa bahay.

“Nay, gutom na ako! May pagkain ba tayo?” tanong ni Rondina. Kumuha siya ng pancit. “Kain ka nang mabuti, anak,” sabi ni Aling Ansing, habang si Mang Mando ay nakamasid, nagtataka kung bakit tila nagbago ang dating masipag nilang anak.

Kinabukasan, maagang nagpunta si Rondina sa palaruan upang makipaglaro. Napadaan si Aling Maring, isang matandang nagtitinda ng tsinelas, na madalas kantiyawan ng mga bata dahil sa kanyang pananamit. Napansin ni Rondina na magkaiba ang suot nitong tsinelas at hindi niya napigilan ang kanyang tawa.

“Hahaha! Aling Maring, bakit magkaiba ang tsinelas mo?” tawa ni Rondina, Nagtawanan din ang kanyang mga kaibigan. Sa kabila ng kahihiyan, ngumiti lamang si Aling Maring at hinugot mula sa kanyang kariton ang isang pares ng bagong tsinelas. “Heto, iha, isang magandang tsinelas para sa iyo,” sabi ni Aling Maring, iniabot ito kay Rondina.

Nabigla si Rondina. “Bakit po ninyo ako binigyan ng tsinelas, Aling Maring?” tanong niya habang masayang isinusuot ang tsinelas. Ngumiti si Aling Maring at hinaplos ang ulo ni Rondina. “Anak, bawat bata ay nararapat na mahalin at bigyan ng halaga, kahit minsan ay nakakalimot tayo sa ating mga salita. Ang pagmamahal at respeto ay nanggagaling sa puso, hindi sa itsura.”

Biglang natahimik si Rondina at napagtanto ang kanyang pagkakamali. “Mahal ako ni Aling Maring kahit na tinawanan ko siya,” naisip niya. Pagdating sa bahay, ipinakita niya ang bagong tsinelas sa kanyang mga magulang. “Nanay, Tatay, tingnan n’yo! Binigay ito ni Aling Maring kahit tinawanan ko siya kanina,” sabi ni Rondina na nahihiya.

Ngumiti si Aling Ansing. “Anak, mahalaga ang tsinelas, pero mas mahalaga ang respeto sa kapwa. Sana natutunan mo ang leksyon,” sabi ni Aling Ansing.

Simula noon, naging maingat si Rondina sa kanyang mga salita at kilos. Napagtanto niya na ang tunay na kagandahan ay hindi nakikita sa panlabas na anyo kundi sa paggalang at pagmamahal sa iba.

DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13766071 

Sa bawat pagsikat ng araw, sa aming tahanan,
Ang mga ngiti ng pag-asa ay sumisilang.
Beneficium Caeli, kayo ang nagbibigay buhay,
Bawat araw na kasama kayo, tagumpay ay tunay.

Musika sa pandinig ko ang inyong tinig,
Halakhak ninyo, tamis na di malilimutan,
Unang mga salita, kahit musmos pa lamang,
Kahit lumaki kayo, alaala’y mananatiling mahalaga.

Sa inyong unang hakbang, mga agam-agam ay bumabalik,
Takot na masaktan, mabalian o masugatan.
Kaya’t bawat minuto, bawat sandali’y pinahahalagahan,
Pagmamahal ko sa inyo, wala nang hihigit pa.

Bawat araw na kapiling kayo,
Damang-dama ko ang biyaya sa aking hiling.
Beneficium Caeli, ang dalawa kong supling,
Sa kahit anong kayamanan, di ko maipagpapalit.

Sa mga unos at suliranin na dumarating,
Ngiti ninyo ang nagpapagaan ng aking pakiramdam.
Puso ko’y nagagalak sa bawat yakap ninyo,
Pagod ko’y nawawala, sa pagmamahal ninyo’y tunay.

Sa bawat dasal ko’y walang ibang hiling,
Kayo’y lumaki na may mabuting asal,
May takot sa Diyos, kababaang-loob, malasakit,
Sa inyong puso’t isipan, huwag nyong iwawaglit.

Kayo ang gabay ko sa bawat landas na tinatahak,
Lakas ko sa oras ng pangungulila.
Beneficium Caeli, napakaswerte kong kayo’y aking mga anak,
Papuri sa Diyos, walang hanggan ang pasasalamat.

Sa inyong paglaki, wala akong ibang hiling,
Maging mabuting tao, wag sarili ang iisipin.
Maglaan ng oras sa pananalangin,
Upang magpasalamat sa biyayang kusang dumarating.

Aking mga anak, palagi ninyong tatandaan,
Pagmamahal ko sa inyo’y walang hanggan.
Sa paglipas ng panahon, sa paglaki ninyo,
Wagas na pagmamahal ko, sa bawat dasal ko’y kayo ang laman.

DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13766073 

Si Lana ay isang simple at napakabait na babae. Masayahin siya at hindi alintana ang mga problemang dumarating, kaya naman marami ang humahanga sa kanya. Madali rin siyang magtiwala sa mga taong mabuti ang hangarin, tulad ng kanyang nobyong si Kent. Nagsimula ang kanilang relasyon noong kolehiyo pa lamang sila, at magkasama nilang binuo ang kanilang mga pangarap. Si Kent ay nag-abroad upang magtrabaho sa isang malaking kumpanya, habang si Lana naman ay nagpakadalubhasa sa pagtuturo dito sa Pilipinas.

Lumipas ang mga buwan, ngunit hindi nagtagal, naging abala si Kent sa kanyang trabaho, at si Lana naman ay tutok sa kanyang pagiging guro. Unti-unti, nagkahiwalay ang kanilang landas. Isang araw, bigla na lamang nawala si Kent sa buhay ni Lana. Nabalitaan pa niyang may iba na palang nililigawan ang kanyang nobyo. Nasaktan si Lana nang husto ngunit itinuloy niya ang kanyang buhay. Tinanggap niya na may mga plano ang Diyos para sa kanya, kaya itinutuon na lamang niya ang kanyang atensyon sa mga estudyante.

Lumipas ang mga taon, unti-unti nang bumalik ang sigla ni Lana. Isang araw, habang abala siya sa pamimili ng mga dekorasyon para sa pagdiriwang ng “Buwan ng Pagbasa” sa eskuwelahan, naramdaman niyang may humawak sa kanyang bag. Napalingon siya at laking gulat niya nang makita si Clark, ang kanyang kababata.

“Clark! Ikaw ba ‘yan?” gulat na tanong ni Lana.

“Oo, ako nga! Kumusta ka na, Lana?” masayang sagot ni Clark habang nakangiti.

Hindi maitago ni Lana ang tuwa. Matagal na rin simula nang huli silang magkita. “Ayos lang naman! Matagal ka na bang nandito?”

“Oo, ilang buwan na rin. Naka-bakasyon ako ngayon mula sa barko,” paliwanag ni Clark.

Nagsimula silang mag-usap, nagkuwentuhan tungkol sa kanilang mga buhay mula nang maghiwalay ng landas. Sa mga sumunod na araw, madalas na silang magkasama—kumakain, namamasyal, at nagtatawanan. Unti-unti, naramdaman ni Lana ang saya na matagal na niyang hindi naramdaman.

Isang gabi, habang magkasama sila sa isang parke, nagsalita si Clark. “Lana, matagal ko nang gustong sabihin ito. Simula pa noong kolehiyo, may nararamdaman na ako para sa’yo. Pangarap lang kita noon, Lana. Pero kahit noon, pinangarap ko na sana balang araw mapansin mo rin ako.”

Namula si Lana at hindi agad nakasagot. “Clark… totoo ba ‘yan? Bakit hindi mo sinabi noon?”

“Ipinagdasal ko na lang na balang araw, makikita mo rin ako. Siguro, hindi pa ito ang tamang panahon noon. Pero ngayong nandito na ako, gusto kong malaman mo, mahal kita.”

Nagulat si Lana, ngunit sa kanyang puso, alam niyang matagal na rin niyang inaasam ang ganitong pagkakataon. "Clark, hindi ko alam na ganito pala ang nararamdaman mo. Pero ngayon, nararamdaman ko na tama ang lahat. Siguro nga, may mga taong umaalis sa buhay natin para bigyang daan ang mas magagandang pagkakataon.”

Ngumiti si Clark at hinawakan ang kamay ni Lana. "Salamat, Lana. Ikaw ang inspirasyon ko para magpatuloy sa buhay. Naghintay ako, at ngayon, narito ka."

Ngayon, buo na ang kanilang mga pangarap—hindi na lamang pangarap, kundi isang tunay na pagmamahalan.

DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13766080 

Biyayang maituturing ang makatagpo at magkaroon ng isang tunay na kaibigan—isang kaibigang nariyan hindi lamang sa oras ng kasiyahan kundi pati sa mga sandali ng pangungulila at pagsubok. Sa napakagulong mundo na ating ginagalawan, napakahirap makahanap ng taong may pusong busilak—isang kaibigan na handang tumulong nang walang hinihintay na kapalit, na hindi kailanman manunumbat. Kaya’t masasabi kong ako’y napakapalad sapagkat biniyayaan ako ng mga Soror Ex Alia Matre—mga kaibigang hindi ko man kadugo, ngunit tunay na kapatid ang turingan.

Ang pagkakaroon ng isang kaibigan mula pa sa unang baitang ay isang alamat. Hindi man kami madalas magkita o magkausap, nandoon pa rin ang respeto at tiwala na kami ay magkaibigan na itinaga sa panahon. Ilang dekada na ang aming samahan, at kahit ilang unos ang dumaan, nananatili kaming matatag. Hindi nasusukat ang isang pagkakaibigan sa dami ng oras na kayo’y magkasama, kundi sa kakayahang manatili sa isa’t isa, anuman ang pagdaanan.

Iba’t iba ang uri ng mga kaibigan. Napatunayan kong hindi mahalaga ang bilang o dami ng mga kaibigan. Mas mahalaga ang mga nananatili, kahit anuman ang mangyari. Ang mga tunay na kaibigan ay walang bahid ng inggit at hindi naghahangad ng anumang kapalit. Sila’y naroon para sa’yo sa oras ng iyong pangangailangan, at hindi kailanman ka lilisanin. Dahil sa kanila, marami akong laban na hindi ko kayang harapin nang mag-isa. Ang kanilang presensya ang nagbibigay lakas sa akin upang magpatuloy.

Sa paglipas ng panahon, natutunan ko rin ang kahalagahan ng pagpili ng kaibigan. Totoo ang kasabihang hindi lahat ng itinuturing mong kaibigan ay may tunay na malasakit. Maaaring para sa’yo, sila’y mahalaga, ngunit para sa kanila, ikaw ay isa lamang pakinabang. Sa ganitong mga karanasan ko natutunan ang tunay na kahulugan ng pagkakaibigan—ang samahang busilak, walang bahid ng pansariling interes, kundi may malasakit at pagmamahal. Ang mga kaibigan na naroon, hindi upang itulak ka sa kapahamakan, kundi upang gabayan ka sa tamang landas.

Masuwerte ako sapagkat mayroon akong mga kaibigan na laging naroroon upang itama ang aking pagkakamali at alalayan ako sa oras ng panghihina. Hindi sila nagbubulag-bulagan sa mga pagkakamali ko; bagkus, naroroon upang ipakita ang tamang daan. Ang kanilang pagiging tapat at tunay ay patunay ng kanilang pagmamahal sa akin. Sa kanila ako sumasalalay sa oras ng pangangailangan, at alam kong sa kanila ako laging may matatakbuhan.

Ang pagkakaroon ng mga kaibigang may Diyos sa kanilang puso ay isang pagpapala. Ang kanilang pananampalataya at malasakit ang nagsisilbing ilaw sa aking landas. Sa pamamagitan nila, natutunan ko ang kahalagahan ng pagkakaibigang may pundasyon ng pananampalataya. Sa mga oras ng pagsubok, sila ang aking sandalan, at ang kanilang presensya ay biyaya mula sa langit.

Sa aking mga Soror Ex Alia Matre, kayo ang aking biyaya mula sa langit. Nawa’y magtagal pa ang ating pagkakaibigan, at salamat sa inyong patuloy na pagmamahal. Sa inyo ko napatunayan na ang tunay na kayamanan sa buhay ay hindi materyal, kundi pagkakaroon ng mga tunay na kaibigan.

DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13766083

Biyayang maituturing ang makatagpo at magkaroon ng isang tunay na kaibigan—isang kaibigang nariyan hindi lamang sa oras ng kasiyahan kundi pati sa mga sandali ng pangungulila at pagsubok. Sa napakagulong mundo na ating ginagalawan, napakahirap makahanap ng taong may pusong busilak—isang kaibigan na handang tumulong nang walang hinihintay na kapalit, na hindi kailanman manunumbat. Kaya’t masasabi kong ako’y napakapalad sapagkat biniyayaan ako ng mga Soror Ex Alia Matre—mga kaibigang hindi ko man kadugo, ngunit tunay na kapatid ang turingan.

Ang pagkakaroon ng isang kaibigan mula pa sa unang baitang ay isang alamat. Hindi man kami madalas magkita o magkausap, nandoon pa rin ang respeto at tiwala na kami ay magkaibigan na itinaga sa panahon. Ilang dekada na ang aming samahan, at kahit ilang unos ang dumaan, nananatili kaming matatag. Hindi nasusukat ang isang pagkakaibigan sa dami ng oras na kayo’y magkasama, kundi sa kakayahang manatili sa isa’t isa, anuman ang pagdaanan.

Iba’t iba ang uri ng mga kaibigan. Napatunayan kong hindi mahalaga ang bilang o dami ng mga kaibigan. Mas mahalaga ang mga nananatili, kahit anuman ang mangyari. Ang mga tunay na kaibigan ay walang bahid ng inggit at hindi naghahangad ng anumang kapalit. Sila’y naroon para sa’yo sa oras ng iyong pangangailangan, at hindi kailanman ka lilisanin. Dahil sa kanila, marami akong laban na hindi ko kayang harapin nang mag-isa. Ang kanilang presensya ang nagbibigay lakas sa akin upang magpatuloy.

Sa paglipas ng panahon, natutunan ko rin ang kahalagahan ng pagpili ng kaibigan. Totoo ang kasabihang hindi lahat ng itinuturing mong kaibigan ay may tunay na malasakit. Maaaring para sa’yo, sila’y mahalaga, ngunit para sa kanila, ikaw ay isa lamang pakinabang. Sa ganitong mga karanasan ko natutunan ang tunay na kahulugan ng pagkakaibigan—ang samahang busilak, walang bahid ng pansariling interes, kundi may malasakit at pagmamahal. Ang mga kaibigan na naroon, hindi upang itulak ka sa kapahamakan, kundi upang gabayan ka sa tamang landas.

Masuwerte ako sapagkat mayroon akong mga kaibigan na laging naroroon upang itama ang aking pagkakamali at alalayan ako sa oras ng panghihina. Hindi sila nagbubulag-bulagan sa mga pagkakamali ko; bagkus, naroroon upang ipakita ang tamang daan. Ang kanilang pagiging tapat at tunay ay patunay ng kanilang pagmamahal sa akin. Sa kanila ako sumasalalay sa oras ng pangangailangan, at alam kong sa kanila ako laging may matatakbuhan.

Ang pagkakaroon ng mga kaibigang may Diyos sa kanilang puso ay isang pagpapala. Ang kanilang pananampalataya at malasakit ang nagsisilbing ilaw sa aking landas. Sa pamamagitan nila, natutunan ko ang kahalagahan ng pagkakaibigang may pundasyon ng pananampalataya. Sa mga oras ng pagsubok, sila ang aking sandalan, at ang kanilang presensya ay biyaya mula sa langit.

Sa aking mga Soror Ex Alia Matre, kayo ang aking biyaya mula sa langit. Nawa’y magtagal pa ang ating pagkakaibigan, at salamat sa inyong patuloy na pagmamahal. Sa inyo ko napatunayan na ang tunay na kayamanan sa buhay ay hindi materyal, kundi pagkakaroon ng mga tunay na kaibigan.

DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13766083

Ikaw ay alamat, sa puso’y tumitimo,
Pag-ibig mong wagas, sagot sa hiling ko.
Noong una’y akala ko, biro lamang ang lahat,
Ngunit pagtingin mo’y tunay, walang pasubali’t sapat.

Sa bawat bulaklak, tsokolate’t simpleng alay,
Oras mo’y ginugol, damdamin ko’y iyong sinakop ng husay.
Walang katumbas ang iyong pagmamahal,
Naramdaman ko ang init ng yakap, sa puso’y walang kapantay.

Kaibigan kang laging nandiyan sa bawat pagsubok,
Sa mga luhang bumabalong, ako’y iyong dinudulutan ng yakap at alok.
Anumang unos o bagyong dumaan,
Sa tabi mo’y natatagpuan ko ang lakas ng kalooban.

Kahit ilang ulit kitang itinaboy, pag-ibig mo’y nagtagumpay,
Hindi ka sumuko, bagkus ay lalo pang nagpursigi’t sumikap.
Ang tapat mong damdamin, unti-unting bumalot,
Sa puso kong nag-aalangan, ito’y natunaw at bumigay sa pag-ibig mong wagas.

Ikaw ang kaloob ng langit sa akin,
Sa lahat ng pagsubok, ikaw pa rin ang nagmamahal ng taimtim.
Tu et Ego—magkasama sa hirap at ginhawa,
Buhos man ng ulan o arawin, hanggang dulo tayo’y magkasama.

Ikaw ang gabay ko, saan man magpunta,
Ngiti mo pa lang, nadarama ko na ang ligaya.
Ang kasipagan mo’y walang kapantay,
Isang pangakong buhay prinsesa’y tunay na tinutupad.

Tu et Ego, ang mithiin natin ay iisa—
Pagmamahalan, respeto’t walang pag-aalinlangan.
Bawat sandaling kapiling ka’y tila ginto,
Kapit-kamay tayong haharap, mahal ko, sa anumang hamon ng mundo.

DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13766085 

Over the years, professionals across academic and clinical domains have articulated various interpretations of the concept of health. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) has imparted a crucial lesson that health transcends mere absence of disease; rather, it hinges on a multifaceted framework encompassing physical, emotional, mental, and social dimensions. These constituent facets of health carry equal significance, and the deterioration of any one aspect compromises an individual's overall well-being. Consequently, individuals bear the responsibility of nurturing their holistic health, necessitating the cultivation of healthy lifestyle habits. It is evident that lifestyle choices are substantially influenced by a multitude of factors, which pose particular challenges to college students living independently, away from the familial comfort.

One of the primary challenges for Filipino college students engage in self-direct living is financial management. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the average family income in the Philippines in 2021 was approximately PHP 313,000 annually, with many families struggling to support their children's higher education expenses. The rising cost of tuition, coupled with living expenses such as rent, food, and transportation, imposes a significant burden on students. Apart from the economic pressure and academic demand they faced, students thriving independent living are tasked with sole management of their time, logistical resources, nutrition, stress, sleep patterns, independence, responsibility, psychological and emotional equilibrium, social interactions, and physical activities. In this context, a simple lifestyle survey questionnaire was administered to 86 education college students at State University of Norther Negros who were residing away from their parental homes. This survey shed light on the prevailing lifestyle practices among the respondents. The findings underscored those issues such as poor sleep patterns, dietary choices, financial support and cultural adaptation emerged as the top three challenges faced by students living away from home. Conversely, the impact of academic and school-related activities was notably higher among these students compared to their counterparts living with their families

In conclusion, a healthy lifestyle is the cornerstone of a thriving existence. The cultivation of health-conscious habits, engagement in physical activities, and the avoidance of a sedentary lifestyle are pivotal factors in the success and well-being of college students living independently. While this phase offers opportunities for independence and self-discovery, it also brings forth formidable responsibilities that must be surmounted. It is imperative for students to navigate this juncture adeptly, harnessing the potential for personal growth and fostering a productive and health-oriented way of life.

DOI 10.5281/zenodo.13766145