NOHS - The Reflector

LOOK | NOHS turns over TV sets, speakers to SHS Department

Following the donation of 33 television units and speakers from the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology-Multipurpose Cooperative (BJMP-MPC) last week, Dr. Cheryl J. Tondo, Principal IV, officially turned over the equipment to the Senior High School (SHS) Department today, Aug. 3.

Tondo expressed her deep appreciation to NOHS alumni, stating that the school is truly blessed to have graduates who continue to look after and give back to their alma mater.

News | Julian Jakosalem
Photo | Daniel Dizon
Layout | Hirumi D. Roldan

𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | PH wins Miss Supranational '26, reclaims crown after 13 years

Embodying poise, grace, and determination, Katrina Llegado took home the Miss Supranational 2026 crown, during the pageant’s grand coronation night in Nowy Sącz, Poland, Aug. 1.

Llegado's victory ended the Philippines' 13-year title drought, following Mutya Johanna Datul's win in 2013, where she became the first Filipina and the first Asian to win the title.

News | Samantha Alimoot
Photo | via Philippine Star / FB
Layout | Hirumi Roldan

𝗖𝗔𝗠𝗣𝗨𝗦 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | SPJ-PTA orientation highlights accomplishments, creativity of campus journos

Recognizing the talents and creativity of aspiring campus journalists, Special Program in Journalism (SPJ) students, parents, and teachers gathered for the General SPJ Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) Meeting, held inside the Audio-Visual Room (AVR), July 31.

During the program, students from different grade levels performed and presented their works, including radio broadcasting simulation, speech choir, and other outputs that reflected their experiences in the program.

“This program showcases how the students' uniqueness and talents make who they are today, along with their parents' support that inspires and helps them continue," Principal IV Cheryl Tondo, PHD, said in her opening remarks.

Furthermore, SPJ Coordinator and Filipino Department Head Analita Batislaon discussed the upcoming activities and requirements for each grade level.

“We are here today to see our students' creativity, and to be informed about upcoming opportunities and activities that will help them improve and understand their lessons more," Batislaon stated.

Overall, the program aims to inform parents and students on what to expect and prepare for in the upcoming school year.

News | Perlyn June Estares
Photos | Julian Jakosalem, Angela Vergara, Dane Bernabe, Jad Amores
Layout | Daniel Dizon

𝗖𝗔𝗠𝗣𝗨𝗦 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | BJMP-MPC donates TV sets, speakers to NOHS in ceremonial turnover

In an effort to bolster education quality through resource procurement, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology-Multi-Purpose Cooperative (BJMP-MPC) gave Negros Occidental High School (NOHS) 33 television sets and speakers, July 31.

Principal IV Cheryl Tondo, PhD, gave the welcoming remarks, whereas Dyan Marie Banjao, SHS Grade Level Adviser led the introduction of donors—which included BMJP-Negros Island Region (BJMP-NIR) Regional Director Brendan Fulgencio.

“The TV sets [and speakers] are not only mere appliances, but also a symbol of dedication to the education received by students, and recognition of the sacrifices of our teachers,” Fulgencio stated.

He also added that the assistance was given in the hopes to improve the efficiency and give more meaning to the learning experiences of students inside the classroom.

Additionally, Tondo, along with Assistant Principal for Senior High School Ruby Grace Treyes facilitated the giving of certificates to officials of the BJMP-MPC.

The donations given are in line with the Adopt-a-School program and Corporate Social Responsibility Program of the BJMP-MPC, where the bureau provides assistance to schools it deems worthy of receiving it.

Moreover, the donation of the TV sets and speakers was made possible through the leadership of BJMP Jail Director Efren Nemeño, Jail Chief Superintendent Brendan Fulgencio, Jail Chief Superintendent Clint Russel Tangeres; the endorsement of NOHS Batch 2006 alumnus Jail Officer III Joric Veraguas; and the aid of Senior Jail Officer III Renee Christy Ledesma, BJMP-MPC Officer-in-Charge.

News | Robe Delfin, Daniel Dizon
Photos | Jessie Rey Moises, Daniel Dizon

𝗖𝗔𝗠𝗣𝗨𝗦 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | SHIP, NOHS Guidance facilitate HIV Awareness Talk

To provide age-appropriate education on HIV prevention, reduce stigma, and encourage responsible behavior for adolescents, Sustained Health Initiatives in the Philippines (SHIP), alongside the Negros Occidental High School (NOHS) Guidance office, conducted an HIV Awareness Talk among selected Grade 11 students at the Audio-Visual room (AVR), July 29.

Regional Protocol Officer Reymart Andrada, together with Bacolod Peer Navigator Javon Dawa, Negros Occidental Case Finder Arnulfo Makilan, and Bacolod Case Finder Eric Chavez, led the discussion on HIV and AIDS, addressing common misconceptions, reducing stigma, and promoting prevention, testing, and acceptance.

“One of the challenges [in expanding HIV awareness] is that some people are in denial of their status because they are scared of the existing stigma and discrimination,” Andrada stated.

Meanwhile, Dawa highlighted that reaching students and minors is a major issue, as many schools remain hesitant to discuss topics such as condom distribution and HIV testing, while also expressing gratitude to schools that continue to provide time and support for HIV education.

Moreover, they also introduced Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ARV) which can be used to reduce the risk of HIV progressing to AIDS, suppress the virus, and protect and strengthen the immune system.

The said program is designed to support the school’s commitment to adolescent reproductive health and holistic student development.

News | Reizil Doromal
Photos | Marren Real Suan
Layout | Hirumi Roldan

𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗦 𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦 | NOHS jins bag two gold in Nat’l Taekwondo Championship

Negros Occidental High School's (NOHS) Jamaica Ortiz Dadula of Grade 9-Procyon and Marethony Gail Escuadra of Grade 9-SPS, from Negros Taekwondo Union-Tigers New Gen emerged victorious in the Smart MVP Sports Foundation National Taekwondo Championships 2026, held at the Ninoy Aquino Sports Complex, Malate, Manila, on July 25-26.

Dadula faced a tough first round but bounced back in the second round, using her precise kicks to win and advance to the finals, where she defeated her final opponent and secured gold, marking her second national title.

On the other hand, Escuadra's final match was intense, where her opponent took an early lead, but she fought back and tied the score, with her opponent falling down in the remaining seconds, giving Escuadra the point that secured her win.

"Your game is like your life, if you don’t fight to win, you lose it," said Dadula.

Escuadra also highlighted that everyone should train with heart, compete with honor, and never let setbacks stop you from believing in yourself; because one day, hard work, discipline and perseverance will lead to victory.

Both athletes are gearing up for the upcoming Batang Pinoy 2027, with Dadula also eyeing a spot in the 2027 Palarong Pambansa, while Escuadra will be looking forward to the approaching Department of Education (DepEd) athletic meets.

Sports | Mary Antonette Quiamco
Photos | via Negros Taekwondo Union-Tigers New Gen / FB
Layout | Hazel Salazar

𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗨𝗠𝗡 | Plunder Disguised as Progress

The Philippines stands at a crossroad between economic opportunity and the protection of its national interests. While technological advancement and foreign investments promise growth, the country cannot ignore the risks that come with increased reliance on external powers. We cannot afford to be passive spectators to what could be our own economic displacement. Every citizen must stand up to ensure that our land and natural resources are safe from potential foreign control, making sure our environment is not degraded for the sole benefit of overseas companies. Sovereignty over natural resources and environmental preservation should be prioritized over offshore income generation and financially inclined initiatives, which is precisely why the Pax Silica initiative should not be welcomed.

According to The Manila Times, the Pax Silica initiative is a United States-led coalition proposing a massive semiconductor, artificial intelligence, and advanced technology hub in New Clark City under the program of the United States Department of State. This initiative aims to position the Philippines as a key location in the global technology race. With its vast mineral reserves, the country has become valuable to industries that rely on resources such as copper, nickel, gold, and other critical minerals. While the initiative promises investment and economic opportunities, it also raises concerns about resource exploitation, environmental damage, and the possibility of Filipino resources becoming tools for foreign interests.

To understand the scale of what we are giving up, we must examine how we value our assets. We often celebrate foreign investments as victories, but when did we begin measuring progress by how much of our own land we are willing to hand over? Our minerals, lands, and natural resources are not simple commodities waiting to be claimed by those with greater financial power. The Philippines may welcome partnerships, but it must remember that our country is not for sale. Foreign investments should strengthen the nation, not create a situation where Filipinos lose control over the resources that sustain them. We Filipinos are not gullible, nor should we be blinded by promises wrapped in investment and profit.

In contrast to these promises, exploitation becomes a reality when economic demands push industries toward intensive resource extraction without sufficient environmental safeguards. Local research from institutions like the Ateneo Policy Center warns that without ironclad safeguards, rapid mining to feed international semiconductor pipelines may cause watershed siltation, acid mine drainage, and deforestation. Reports from GMA News Online regarding the United States-backed tech corridor in Clark highlight that while jobs are promised, the intense energy and water requirements of artificial intelligence infrastructure threaten local community resources.

To prevent this exploitation, the government must ensure that initiatives like Pax Silica protect national interests through strict environmental regulations, transparent agreements, and policies that prioritize Filipino welfare. The state must enforce the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 (Republic Act No. 7942), alongside Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) environmental compliance mandates, while actively anchoring local innovation through the Philippine Innovation Act (Republic Act No. 11293). Partnerships should be built on cooperation, not dependence, and progress should never require giving up sovereignty.

The demand for minerals needed in advanced technologies may open doors for growth, but it can also accelerate environmental destruction if left unchecked. Communities, forests, and ecosystems should not become sacrifices for corporate profits. This relentless cycle of resource exploitation and dependence on foreign industries repeats because economic frameworks prioritize short-term offshore extraction over long-term ecological sustainability. Instead of relying on foreign industries as the main drivers of technological advancement, the government must focus on nurturing Filipino workers, strengthening local expertise, and honing the skills of scientists, engineers, and innovators who can build the nation’s own technological capabilities.

True advancement happens when Filipinos are not only participants in global industries but are also creators of the technologies that shape the future. Pax Silica may offer opportunities, but our resources are not bargaining chips to make ourselves more attractive to foreign investment, and our environment is not a price to pay for profit. The country can embrace innovation without surrendering its identity because a nation that develops its own people alongside its resources gains far more than one that simply exports what it owns.

Column | Ysabella Irish Trayfalgar
Cartoon | Inah Perez
Layout | Ashmir Tuya

𝗜𝗡 𝗣𝗛𝗢𝗧𝗢𝗦 | Protesters belonging to various organizations gathered at the Bacolod City Public Plaza in response to President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos' (PBBM) upcoming Statement of the Nation Address (SONA), today, July 27.

Moreover, the protesters voiced out their concerns regarding issues such as flood control projects, minimum wage, service privatization, and urban poverty among others.

Photos | Daniel Dizon

𝗟𝗢𝗢𝗞 | NOHS acknowledges NOHSFAI officers

Cheryl J. Tondo, PhD, Principal IV, led the oath taking of the newly elected officers of Negros Occidental High School Faculty Association Incorporated (NOHSFAI) infront of the main building, July 27.

In line with this, outgoing president, Fritz Porras, passed the key of responsibility to the newly elected NOHSFAI president, Jeffrey Zamora, wishing them the best of luck.

Photo | Julian Jakosalem

𝗟𝗲𝘁 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗹 | Enola Holmes 3: Behind the Lens of Deduction

𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙬𝙤 𝙥𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚, 𝙀𝙣𝙤𝙡𝙖

𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨, 𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙩𝙝 𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪.

Enola Holmes 3, a much awaited movie, adds to what is an already dearly beloved franchise. Although it takes place in the tiny island of Malta, there is more to this third installment in the franchise than the 316 square kilometers of land it is situated in.

What stands out to me the most is how the movie captivates you with its fresh screenplay. Much like the first two movies, the way the third one uses creative and witty graphics to illustrate some scenes in the movie takes you on another adventure apart from the main story itself. The use of scenes as a form of B-roll, which we can interpret as figments of Enola’s memory also enhances how we can visualize the moments described during Enola’s monologues. Of course, the iconic 4th wall breaks—although no longer new in media, is captivating in how it is used in Enola Holmes 3, allowing us to visually participate in Enola’s deductions of clues, which personally, makes me subconsciously feel like I am there in the scene itself, which is what makes the film even more immersive.

We also see how Enola has matured as a detective, and how she uses her refined skills to rescue Sherlock, her brother, and her to-be mother-in-law Lady Tewksbury. However, it must be noted how in the earlier sequences of the film, that when Enola is attempting to solve the mystery of the disappearance of Lady Tewksbury, voiceovers of Sherlock are used while she goes through her train of thought, symbolizing her uneasiness with the tasks at hand, and her still existing feelings of inferiority to her brother, which can be inferred from lines such as, “What would my brother do?”.

Apart from this, we get a glimpse inside the societal structure of British-controlled Malta in the movie. In a scene where Enola is questioned by a local police sergeant, the appointed governor by the crown enters the room, deeming the interrogation of Enola to be a breach of authority, provided that in this particular setting, the English are seen as the “betters” of the Maltese, highlighting how this colonial structure negatively affects the lives of the locals, and also reflects past societal structures or castes inclined to benefit colonialist aims.

More importantly, we observe another theme that is somewhat overshadowed by the thrilling scenes full of action and wit—Enola’s wedding. Before she is to be wed, we see Enola having reservations about losing her surname of Holmes. In this scene Enola casts her doubts about taking up the Tewksbury name, and further contemplating what it means to be a Holmes in the first place. At the end of the film, Lord Tewksbury, her to-be husband, renounces his title in atonement for the past war crimes committed by his father, after which he takes upon his blood name, Tebbity-Gore, while Enola keeps her surname Holmes. This particular showcase of marriage customs puts the act of the wife taking her husband’s surname in another lens, one where love transcends the boundaries set by tradition and the exchange of surnames.

𝙒𝙚 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚, 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙩𝙝, 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙪𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣

In a scene more than halfway through the movie, we find ourselves with Enola, her mother Eudoria, Mikiel Mizzi, a Maltese freedom fighter; Lord Tewkesbury, and Dr. John Watson, Sherlock Holmes’s roommate. The following proceed to the British Military Headquarters in Malta, where they attempt to find more about the truth behind the kidnappings of Sherlock and Lady Tewksbury, Lord Tewksbury’s mother. It is here that we find out that Lord Tewksbury’s father, along with the brigadier general, who was the former’s fellow soldier in the battle of Khost, looted the locals for gold, specifically, one tonne of Afghan gold which served as “advanced reparations.” This discovery understandably shatters Lord Tewksbury’s perception of his father. Unable to comprehend the weight of the war crimes his father has committed, Tewksbury breaks down, with Watson comforting him with the story of how his own father served the British Raj, and blindly followed in the crown’s rule over India despite the injustices carried out in that particular setting. It is in this scene that we can ponder about the complications of war, and how the shattering of the illusion of our heroes can weigh down on us.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗩𝗲𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗰𝘁

Enthralling, captivating, and simply lovely. These three words, and many more can only describe Enola Holmes 3. With some franchises regressing to creating movie sequels that seem more like quick money grabs rather than the development of a world held dear, the Enola Holmes franchise gives me hope, that franchises can flourish as works of art that not only nurture the world it builds in the minds of its audience, but also brings into perspective the many social issues that we continue to face today.

Review | Daniel Dizon
Layout | Irish Mañgao