NOHS - The Reflector

𝗟𝗜𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗥𝗬 | What Does Blue and Yellow Make?

For a start, it certainly doesn't make blellow. We know that much.

We'd honestly laugh at questions like that. The kind with obvious answers that you'd answer with sarcasm. The kind you don’t even think about because you just… know. Blue and yellow make green. Simple. Done.

Yet it's strange how something so simple can start to feel unfamiliar later on. Not because the answer changed, but because of how we define something as we continue to live out our lives.

It is a constant to think that if things were meant to be, they would naturally become something beautiful. That they would always blend, always work, always turn into something new.

𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗺𝗲𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗺𝗲𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗱.

Sometimes, it simply lets them exist side by side. Close enough to be seen together, but never close enough to become one.

𝗦𝗼, 𝘄𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗽𝗲.

"𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙛𝙨."

What if there was a version of this story where it worked? Where the world was kinder, where distance didn’t learn our names, and where misunderstandings never became endings?

In that version, blue and yellow wouldn’t stay separate. They would finally become green—something that feels like it was always supposed to exist. Something that works. Something allowed. Something that stays.

But not here. Not in this one. Because not everything becomes a lifetime, some things just feel like one.

Maybe that is why I think of you sometimes. Not as a failure, but as an "almost" that exists in this lifetime. As something that existed beautifully for a moment in my life—so real it almost convinced me it would last, even if I knew that I would be the one that would fail to catch you.

Like the stories I continue to remember—pairs that everyone believed in: Cho and Cedric, Amihan and Ybrahim, Frieren and Himmel, Maine and Alden, and Bianca and Will—familiar pairs that we rooted for without question. Blue and yellow characters, standing beside each other in every scene, every frame in the film… and yet they were far from being the "endgame." Not because they lacked love, but because the story simply wasn’t written in their favor. Stories that have taught me to accept that some things are not meant to be forced, not when 𝘪𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘯 𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯.

𝗦𝗼 𝗜'𝗹𝗹 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝗶𝘁 𝗯𝗲. 𝗜𝗳 𝗻𝗼𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱, 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗺𝗮𝘆𝗯𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝙖𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧.

For now, I'll stay here. In this version, I'll stay awake from a 𝘨𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮. Even if it means I would spend a lifetime waiting.

𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘣𝘭𝘶𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘴 𝘣𝘭𝘶𝘦.

𝘞𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘺𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘪𝘯𝘴 𝘺𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸.

𝙎𝙚𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙫𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚.

Literary | Eunoia Lens
Layout | Cailyn De Guzman

𝗦𝗖𝗜-𝗧𝗘𝗖𝗛 | Artemis II: Worth a Lifetime Wait

𝑨𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑴𝒐𝒐𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑩𝒂𝒄𝒌

Way before we had the technology to leave Earth, we already had the desire to go beyond it. This desire has tested our limits for generations, with each technological innovation having the intention to reach farther than the sky. In 1969, Apollo 11 first brought humans to the moon, and after over 50 years, our desire to reach for what lies beyond has brought us back to our cosmic neighbor. But why do we keep going back to a place that is so far from home?

, a mission that has marked humanity’s long-awaited journey around the Moon, is a key step to a path toward establishing a long-term presence at the Moon according to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). This mission was led by Commander Reid Wiseman and Pilot Victor Glover, alongside mission specialists Christina Koch and Jeremy Hansen. For 10 days, the Orion spacecraft, NASA's crew capsule designed to transport astronauts beyond Earth, flew as part of the Space Launch System (SLS), a heavy-lift rocket intended for lunar missions. Additionally, the capsule was powered by the European Service Module (ESM), which supplied electricity, water, oxygen, and thrust for space flight while also keeping the spacecraft at the proper temperature and course. While circling the Moon, it tested key systems such as how it determines its path, how it stays in touch with Earth, and how it sustains the lives of the astronauts, which are critical steps for future Artemis missions, especially those aimed at landing astronauts on the Moon.

People may not feel the sense of accomplishment because of the mission's success alone, but rather because of the long-endured wait that made it possible. The lengthy experiments carried through generations of astronauts and astrophysicists, the patient pursuit of science to expand what humanity knows, and the long-awaited success in them returning here to Earth safely. Even the name Artemis itself carries a legacy forward; it is named after Apollo’s twin in Greek mythology, and is based on the Apollo program, which launched the first humans to the moon. While Apollo marked the beginning of lunar exploration, Artemis is its continuation, shaped by decades of both the efforts of NASA and astronauts. Wherein all was guided by the hope that every step into space is ultimately a leap taken for the good of humanity. A promise to improve life and to extend what is possible for everyone to grasp.

Artemis II stands as proof that our generation has gone to great lengths for each innovation, a journey of discovery that led us to strive further. Maybe this is why we return: not for the Moon itself, but for the courage it awakens in us to discover what it truly means to leave home. In the end, the sky was never really our limit—in fact, in knowing that we have surpassed this limit, Artemis II is truly worth the wait.

Now, the world exhales that you are safe. Welcome back home, Artemis II!

Sci-Tech | Rhavie Taquiso
Photos | via European Space Agency, space.com
Layout | Daniel Dizon, Rhavie Taquiso

Happy birthday to one of our editorial writers, Lleyan!

Echoing the truth with each paragraph, you ensure that every fact reinforces the stand you take, unveiling the reality behind events that matter. Forming educated opinion steeled with bravery, you integrate every piece of evidence into your articles, shaping perspective in the name of truth.

Each sentence not only echoes out the truth but also reflects your dedication in pursuing it. As you celebrate another milestone in your life, The Reflector wishes you all the best.

𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐆𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐦: 𝐑𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐋𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐜𝐲

Passing on their knowledge to the next generation of campus journalists, their invaluable expertise became a catalyst for growth, helping to shape the future of those who will follow in their footsteps.

Each critique and piece of advice went beyond simple responses to shortcomings; they also reflected steadfast commitment to nurturing and elevating the craft of their juniors. More than honing individual talents, they paved the way for others to grow, inspiring those who looked up to them to flourish.

As your final year in high school marks the end of this chapter of your JOURNey, may the years ahead still echo with your smiles and radiant laughter within the corners of the NOHS campus. The legacy you leave behind will not remain confined within its walls—it will live on through those who come after you, guiding and reshaping the paths they take. Even in your absence, the lessons you have imparted will endure, for we would not be who we are today without you, our seniors.

To the mirrors who have completed their high school journey, congratulations!

To the mirrors who have made our high school journey more complete, thank you.

𝗟𝗢𝗖𝗔𝗟 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | Transport groups to go on strike, calls for govt. action

Traditional jeepney drivers and operators under UNDOC-PISTON, KNETCO, and other unions are set to organize a transport strike tomorrow, March 26, calling on the government to remove the value-added tax (VAT), excise tax, and oil deregulation law.

Moreover, the rallyists have designated four rally centers, including Cor. Burgos-Lopez Jaena, Magsaysay Flyover, and Bata Flyover in Bacolod City; and Tayabas Elementary School in Talisay City, according to UNDOC-PISTON Secretary General Eric Bendoy.

News | Daniel Dizon
Photo via Digicast Negros/Facebook

𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | P230-B available for Middle East crisis response — DBM

Amid surging global oil prices that threaten Filipino households, President Ferdinand "B**gbong" Marcos Jr. ordered the release of P230 billion in emergency funds to stabilize the country’s fuel supply, according to the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), Mar. 25.

Following this, PBBM declared a state of national energy emergency through Executive Order No. 110, which authorizes a unified package for livelihoods, industry, food, and transport.

According to Acting Budget Secretary Rolando Toledo, the executive has a combined total of P210 billion—about P10 billion from appropriations in the 2025 national budget, P200 billion from this year’s General Appropriations Act (GAA), and P20 billion from the Malampaya fund.

The said P200 billion GAA fund includes P63.8 billion for the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s assistance programs, P4.2 billion for the Department of Migrant Workers, and P1.2 billion for the Department of Foreign Affairs’ Assistance to Nationals and legal aid funds.

Toledo also noted a P2.5 billion allocation for the Department of Transportation's subsidy for the transport sector, which will come from last year’s budget.

News | Samantha Alimoot
Photo via Inquirer Net, Marianne Bermudez

𝗖𝗔𝗠𝗣𝗨𝗦 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | NOHS SSLG concludes YOU-W.A.S.P. self-defense program

Negros Occidental High School Supreme Secondary Learners Government (NOHS-SSLG) officially wrapped up the 5-day-long Youth and Women’s Advocate for Self-Defense and Protection (YOU-W.A.S.P.) program at the NOHS gymnasium, March 23.

NOHS-SSLG organized the event with the Negros Kali International Association Inc., Project C.A.R.E.S., Bacolod City Police, and the General Parents and Teachers Association.

"When we talk about self-defense, many people tend to think physical strength or combat skills, but in reality, self-defense starts with powerful awareness and mindset," Bacolod City Police Chief Effren Legada stated.

Legada also emphasized that the youth are the most vulnerable but the most capable because of their energy, intelligence, and adaptability to protect themselves.

Moreover, Grandmaster Jose Marañon, president and chairman of Negros Kali International Association Inc., led the announcement of the program graduates during the closing ceremony, after which guests from Switzerland, India, and Negros Kali demonstrated the techniques and methods of self-defense.

News Coverage | Julian Andrex Jakosalem
Photos | J.A. Jakosalem

CAMPUS NEWS | The Reflector, Ang Aninag clinch awards at RSPC 2026

Ink-stained hands carved victory as Negros Occidental High School (NOHS) publications, The Reflector and Ang Aninag, triumphed at the Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC) 2026 last March 15–17 at Talisay City, Nature's Village Resort.

Representing the Schools Division Office (SDO) of Negros Occidental, NOHS - The Reflector and NOHS - Ang Aninag competed in various categories and secured the following accomplishments:

ENGLISH CATEGORY
5th Place - Photojournalism
Janessa Gwen Alojado

TV Scriptwriting and Broadcasting
1st Place - Best Infomercial
1st Place Best News Presenter – Kiel Ashley Gasendo
2nd Place Best News Presenter – Jenny Mae Alfiscar
2nd Place - Best Script
3rd Place - Best Technical Application
4th Place - Overall

Justine Bermundo
Ericka Jailah Federico
Jammiel Kent Lucasan
Marren Real
Jessie Rey Moises

FILIPINO CATEGORY
3rd Place - Online Publishing
Natasha Andrea Monares
Shainie Magbiray
Mark Gabriel Sayon
Jad Henry Amores
Angeline Ganibo

5th Place - Collaborative Desktop Publishing
Khayze Presquito
Sasha Claire Estil
Latrell Job Casia
Lustter Jake Lamata
Carl Andrie Barbon
Arc Kelly Hechanova
Joana Katrina Palma

TV Scriptwriting and Broadcasting
5th Place - Best Technical Application
5th Place - Best Script

Ysabella Alulod
Jock Livingston
Joshua Leone Daquio
Joelliene Anika Appe
Thea Mare Rosal
Angelo Lachica
John Traves Mahilum

"But at the same time, I’m really happy because I got to share this experience with The Reflector—it made everything more meaningful, and I’m truly grateful," said Alojado.

Moreover, Negros Occidental ranked third in the Top Performing Schools in the RSPC.

News | Samantha Alimoot
Layout | Kyla Manolo

𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗨𝗠𝗡 | Misogyny on the House Floor

Women’s Month is meant to honor dignity, equality, and respect—but those ideals ring hollow when sexism echoes inside the halls of power. When leaders casually reduce women to objects of fantasy, they degrade not only the woman targeted but also the institution they represent. Misogyny spoken in government spaces is not a joke, not a harmless remark, and not something to brush aside. Public officials must be held accountable, and misogyny must be driven out of the halls of Congress.

The issue came to light during a House justice committee hearing on the impeachment complaints against Vice President Sara Duterte. Quezon City Representative B**g Suntay sparked outrage after speaking about his sexual “imagination” involving actress Anne Curtis while defending Duterte’s remarks. Lawmakers later moved to strike the statement from the official record, recognizing it had no place in a formal government proceeding.

The comment may have been framed as harmless imagination, but that defense exposes a deeper problem. When leaders reduce women to objects even in serious discussions, they normalize the same behavior that women confront daily in workplaces, streets, and schools. If misogyny is tolerated at the highest levels of governance, it quietly signals that disrespect toward women is acceptable everywhere else.

This takes us back to when Sen. Robin Padilla sparked outrage for remarks suggesting that men could lose control of their sexual urges when “in heat,” while invoking the belief that “ang babae ay nagpapasakop sa lalaki” (women submit to men). Framing women’s roles this way reinforces the dangerous notion that women exist to submit to men—a view that undermines the very principles of consent, equality, and dignity. Though he later apologized, the incident revealed how deeply rooted these outdated beliefs remain, even among those in positions of power.

Public office is not a stage for careless remarks. Congressional hearings exist to address national issues, not to entertain irrelevant fantasies about women. Leaders are expected to uphold higher standards of conduct because their words carry influence. Claiming that a remark is not illegal misses the real issue—leadership demands responsibility, discipline, and respect.

Accountability must go beyond deleting statements from the record. Lawmakers who objected and moved to remove the remark took the right step, and groups like Gabriela Women's Party have rightly condemned the statement as sexist and degrading. But real accountability requires acknowledgment, apology, and a firm reminder that public office is a privilege that demands dignity.

Women’s Month should not be reduced to slogans while disrespect thrives in the institutions meant to serve the people. Respect for women must be visible in both words and actions, especially from those in power. If misogyny can casually surface in the halls of Congress, then the public must demand something better—because a government that cannot respect women cannot truly claim to represent them.

Column | Ysabella Irish Trayfalgar
Layout | Cailyn de Guzman

𝗖𝗔𝗠𝗣𝗨𝗦 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | Assistant Principal II-SHS Ruby Grace Treyes, MaEd, MEd extended her appreciation towards work immersion program partners during the SHS Partners Convergence, Mar. 19.

See post for more information:
https://www.facebook.com/share/p/184WcjhDrS/

Via | Aeon Montañez
Photo | Janessa Alojado
Layout | Christian Lhyle Nulada

𝗖𝗔𝗠𝗣𝗨𝗦 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | NOHS honors work immersion partners

Negros Occidental High School (NOHS) expressed its gratitude for work immersion partners as it holds its Senior High School (SHS) Convergence 2026 at the La Guerta Hall of Mansion de Bacolod, Mar. 19.

Various stakeholders and partners of the NOHS Work Immersion Program attended the said program with the theme "A Gathering of Gratitude and Partnership."

"And so today we are thankful that there are partners like you who are willing to accept them, and because you accepted them, you have given them a wider perspective of what work and what life are all about," NOHS Principal IV Ma'am Cheryl Tondo said in her welcome address.

Grade 12 students who went through the said program shared their testimonies, representing their respective tracks and strands.

Additionally, Ma'am Tondo also expressed appreciation towards the organizations and people from the partner workplaces on behalf of the students.

NOHS then distributed certificates of appreciation for the partners of the school and then signed the Commitment Forms for the school year 2026 - 2027.

Rayzyen Gibbon Romo, a student of Grade 12 TVL CSS—Friendliness, offered a serenade before the closing remarks of Ma'am Precious Grace Silva, the work immersion coordinator.

News | Aaron Joshua Villoga
Photos | Janessa Alojado, Matheo Selisa, Matthaiah Ezra Cahilo, Marren Real, and A.J. Villoga