The Essence Writers Guild

𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗝𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗺: 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗦𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀🔥🏆

We are thrilled to announce a landmark achievement for the Essence Writers Guild of Estefa O. Monte Memorial National High School! At the recent Division School Press Conference, our team secured the 𝟰𝘁𝗵 𝗧𝗼𝗽 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹, marking a significant milestone in our publication's history. This accomplishment reflects our collective dedication and passion for journalism. ✒️✨

This success would not have been possible without the exceptional leadership of our Editor-in-Chief, Xian Gabrielle Cuizon, whose vision and commitment inspired us all. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Lovely Mae Muaña for her invaluable guidance and unwavering support, which steered us towards excellence. Additionally, we thank our School Principal, Mrs. Leonilyn Ramos, for fostering an environment that champions hard work and collaboration.

The collaborative spirit of the entire Editorial Board was instrumental in achieving this honor. Each member's unique skills and tireless efforts contributed to our overall success. Together, we have not only made history but also set a new standard for excellence in school journalism. Here's to continued growth and future achievements! 🚀🖋

✍️: Cathee Annabeth Fe Yutina | Managing Editor
🎨: Xian Gabrielle Cuizon | Editor-in-Chief

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 | 𝗬𝘂𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

In the Philippines, a 𝗕𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗻 is the traditional nativity scene, symbolizing Jesus' birth in Bethlehem (from the Spanish Belén), representing humility, family, hope, and the true spirit of Christmas beyond material gifts, often displayed creatively in homes, churches, and public spaces with local materials and unique figures. It serves as a focal point for faith and togetherness, reminding Filipinos of the core values of compassion, simplicity, and gratitude during the holiday season.⭐🤍

This Christmas, young journalists can draw inspiration from the Belen, the Nativity scene, which embodies storytelling, hope, and unity. Like the Belen's visual narrative of the birth of Jesus Christ, young journalists are storytellers who can share important narratives, shed light on community issues, and give a voice to the voiceless. By focusing on stories that highlight values such as community initiatives, profiles of inspiring individuals, and the cultural significance of the Belen, they can spread messages of hope and positive change. Just as the Belen represents a sacred story, young journalists should approach their work with integrity and a commitment to truth-telling, making a positive impact this Christmas season and beyond.🖋🎄

𝟬𝟭 𝗗𝗔𝗬 𝗨𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗟 𝗖𝗛𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗠𝗔𝗦!🎄🤍

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 | 𝗬𝘂𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗚𝗮𝗯𝗶, meaning "Night Mass," is a beloved nine-day series of dawn Masses in the Philippines, held from December 16 to 24, as a devotional preparation for Christmas, culminating in the Misa de Gallo (Rooster's Mass) on Christmas Eve. Introduced by Spanish friars to allow farmers to attend Mass before work, it's a deep-rooted Catholic tradition fostering community, faith, and anticipation for Jesus' birth.✨🎄

During Christmas, journalists beautifully connect with the Filipino tradition of "Simbang Gabi" by covering and commenting on its significance, often illuminating its essence in festive newspaper columns. Their storytelling captures the spirit of the season, highlighting the tradition's origins, the nuances of its practices like "de Gallo", and how it adapts to modern times, both locally and among Filipinos abroad, making their contribution a beautiful part of the holiday season.🖋⭐

𝟬𝟮 𝗗𝗔𝗬𝗦 𝗨𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗟 𝗖𝗛𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗠𝗔𝗦!🎇🎄

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 | 𝗬𝘂𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

In the Philippines, 𝗡𝗼𝗰𝗵𝗲 𝗕𝘂𝗲𝗻𝗮 (Spanish for "Good Night") is the cherished Christmas Eve tradition of a grand, late-night family feast, usually starting after midnight mass (Misa de Gallo), filled with abundant Filipino dishes like lechon, spaghetti, pancit, and desserts, symbolizing family togetherness, blessings, and welcoming Christmas Day with love and gratitude.✨🤍

This Christmas, the spirit of Noche Buena, with its emphasis on family, community, and hope, finds a parallel in the field of journalists. Just as families gather to celebrate and share stories, journalists work tirelessly to connect communities by reporting on events that shape our world. Their dedication to truth and integrity brings light to important issues, offering clarity and understanding, much like the guiding star of Bethlehem. In a season of reflection and renewal, both Noche Buena and the work of journalists remind us of the importance of connection, truth, and the enduring power of hope.🖋💪🏻

𝟬𝟯 𝗗𝗔𝗬𝗦 𝗨𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗟 𝗖𝗛𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗠𝗔𝗦!🎄✨

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 | 𝗬𝘂𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 in the Philippines is a beloved Christmas tradition where groups, usually children but also adults, go house-to-house singing festive songs like "Jingle Bells" or Filipino carols, often with makeshift instruments (like bottle cap tambourines), in exchange for money, treats, or small gifts, spreading holiday cheer and embodying the Filipino spirit of giving and community during the "Ber" months leading up to Christmas.🎄✨

As journalists from Estefa O. Monte Memorial National High School, maybe our Young Journalists are secretly the BEST carolers in town! Imagine them, disguising their note-taking skills as lyric sheets, hitting every high note while also getting the scoop on who has the best-decorated house. Forget breaking news, they're breaking into song, spreading Christmas cheer one perfectly harmonized chord at a time, all while subtly promoting their school paper with a catchy jingle. Who knew caroling could be such a clever journalistic endeavor?🎶✨

𝟬𝟱 𝗗𝗔𝗬𝗦 𝗨𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗟 𝗖𝗛𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗠𝗔𝗦!🖋🎉

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗱𝗹𝘆 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀: 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹!

To recognize and honor the outstanding achievements, unwavering dedication, and invaluable contributions of our members, coaches, and supporters throughout the year. It's a time to reflect on our collective successes, express our heartfelt gratitude for everyone's hard work, and spread holiday cheer within our writing community.🎄✨

This year, we are especially thrilled to celebrate the individuals who form the very heart of our organization, the dedicated 𝗖𝗼𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝘀 who selflessly ignite a passion for ethical and impactful journalism in our students, the talented and diverse 𝗦𝘁𝘂𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 and 𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 who lend their unique voices, perspectives, and creativity to our publications and projects, and the tireless 𝗘𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗕𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘀 who work diligently as officers, providing unwavering leadership, guidance, and support to keep everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

In line with the vision of our Editor-in-Chief and as a sincere gesture of thanksgiving this Christmas season, all awardees will be able to claim their well-deserved certificates of recognition when classes resume after the holiday break. We will reveal the awardees as soon as possible. Congratulations to each and every one of you, and may you all have a truly joyful, peaceful, and memorable Christmas season filled with love, joy, and hope!✨💪🏻

✍️: Cathee Annabeth Fe Yutina | Managing Editor
🎨: Xian Gabrielle Cuizon | Editor-in-Chief

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 | 𝗬𝘂𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

A 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗼𝗹 (from Spanish farol, meaning lantern) is the Philippines' iconic, star-shaped Christmas lantern, symbolizing the Star of Bethlehem that guided the Three Wise Men, representing hope, faith, and the triumph of light over darkness. Traditionally made from bamboo and Japanese paper, parols light up homes and streets, guiding Filipinos to church for Simbang Gabi and embodying resilience and festive spirit, even evolving into modern designs with capiz shells and electric lights.

Like a vibrant parol lighting up the darkest night, the young journalists of Estefa O. Monte Memorial National High School illuminate our world with their stories. Each article they write, each truth they uncover, shines as brightly as the colorful panels of this traditional star, guiding us towards a better understanding and a brighter future. Their dedication and passion are the true essence of the parol, a symbol of hope and unwavering light in the face of challenges.🖋✨

𝟬𝟲 𝗗𝗔𝗬𝗦 𝗨𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗟 𝗖𝗛𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗠𝗔𝗦!🎄🎉

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝘅 𝗗𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱!

As we step into this year’s competition, remember that we are carrying not just our school’s name, but our hard work, our practices, and every lesson we’ve learned along the way. We are here because we earned this spot, because our talent and dedication brought us forward. No matter what category we’re joining—writing, radio broadcasting, layout, cartooning, or photography believe that we have something unique to offer.

Competitions can be stressful, but don’t let that pressure take away the joy of doing what you love. Trust your skills, trust your preparation, and trust your instincts. Mistakes may happen, but that doesn’t erase your potential or your growth it only proves that you are learning, improving, and becoming stronger. Stand tall, breathe, and give your best with pride.🖋✨
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Meet the Coaches of the Division School Press Conference 2025! ‎Behind every confident participant is a coach who believes, guides, and pushes them to be better.
‎
‎In the English Category, we proudly recognize:

Feature Writing: Maria Gelen Bravo
News Writing: Renie Jane C. Rom
Science and Technology Writing: Pearl Ann Capuyan
Editorial Cartooning: Lovely Mae M. Muaña
Sports Writing: Rosemarie A. Guinita
Copyreading and Headline Writing: Renie Jane A. Rom
Editorial Writing: Leizel Remorosa
Column Writing: Maria Gelen Bravo
Photojournalism: Lovely Mae M. Muaña
Radio Broadcasting: Cristel Bello

In the Filipino Category, we extend our appreciation to:
‎
Feature Writing: Catherine T. Tacsan
News Writing: Tomashiela B. Lawas
Science and Technology Writing: Josephine Adolfo
Editorial Cartooning: Lovely Mae M. Muaña
Sports Writing: Rosemarie A. Guinita
Pagwawasto at Pagsisipi at Pag-uulo ng Balita: Renie Jane C. Rom
Editorial Writing: Emma Rose A. Perez
Column Writing: Emma Rose A. Perez
Photojournalism: Lovely Mae M. Muaña
Radio Broadcasting: Rizlee E. Cole

Division School Press Conference is not just about winning medals; it’s about discovering your strengths, building confidence, and realizing how powerful your voice can be. So go out there with courage and heart. You are capable. You are ready. And no matter the result, you should be proud of how far you’ve come. Shine bright, future journalists this is your stage!✏️🎙

✍️: Cathee Annabeth Fe Yutina | Managing Editor
🎨: Xian Gabrielle Cuizon | Editor-in-Chief




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𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 | 𝗬𝘂𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

Fellow Estefanians! As we approach this year's Christmas, let's focus on capturing the "Yuletide Essence"—that unique blend of warmth, hope, and joy that defines the Christmas spirit. Our mission is to inspire our fellow Estefanians by crafting questions that resonate deeply with their experiences and aspirations. Let's delve into what truly motivates them, what brings them joy during the holiday season, and what their hopes are for the coming year. By asking thoughtful, engaging questions, we can create a powerful narrative that not only reflects the spirit of Christmas but also uplifts and encourages our student community. Let's collaborate to ensure that every question we ask embodies the true essence of Yuletide, leaving a lasting impact on the hearts and minds of our Estefanian students!✨🎄

We will delve into the heart of the Yuletide Essence by seeking a memorable Christmas story from a prominent student leader. This story, chosen for its power to inspire, will set a profound tone for our special, demonstrating how leadership and personal narratives can uplift our Estefanian community during the holiday season.✨🖋

𝟭𝟳 𝗗𝗔𝗬𝗦 𝗨𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗟 𝗖𝗛𝗥𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗠𝗔𝗦!🎄🎇
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𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘆 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗲 𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗱𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗼𝗻?

"One Christmas story I always treasure—and love to share during this season of hope—is a story about God’s perfect timing, re-direction, and unwavering grace. It’s not a story from a book, but a story written by life itself.

Before becoming who I am today, I faced moments of failure that almost broke my spirit. I ran for two elections—both ended in defeat. I questioned my worth, my purpose, and even the plans I once
believed were meant for me. But God works in ways that surprise us. Sometimes, He closes doors not to punish us, but to re-direct us toward something greater.

When I decided to run again, this time for President, I carried the lessons of my failures and the silent prayers of my heart. And by God’s grace, I was elected. From there, everything began to unfold—slowly, beautifully, purposefully. I poured my heart into serving the Estefanian community, crafting plans, visions, and dreams not just for myself but for every student who deserved a voice.

Then came another blessing: being elected as the DFSSLG P.I.O. for SY 2024–2025. I didn’t expect it, but God kept opening doors I once feared I’d never reach. And one of the biggest surprises? Our SSLG being awarded as the Best SSLG Implementer in the entire Division of Danao City. What I once thought was impossible became a reality I could proudly hold.

But the journey didn’t end there. I took one more leap of faith—I ran again for my second term as President. And this time, God aligned the stars even brighter. I was elected as DFSSLG President
and eventually as Senator of Cebu Island for the RFSSLG. A position I once believed was too far, too big, too impossible for someone who once failed… twice.

Looking back, I see how every hardship, every tear, and every “no” was God’s way of preparing me for something bigger. He wasn’t delaying me—He was shaping me. He was teaching me resilience,
humility, and genuine leadership. He was reminding me that failure is not the opposite of success; it is a part of the journey toward it.

This Christmas, I share this story to remind others that God’s plan is perfect—even when you don’t understand it. Even when the road feels long, heavy, and unfair. Your setbacks today may be the very stepping stones toward the destiny He has written for you.

Let this season be a reminder:
God makes all things beautiful in His time.
Your journey might be hard, but your purpose is worth every step.
And when the time is right, everything—just like the Christmas lights—will shine."

— 𝗛𝗼𝗻. 𝗥𝗼𝗱𝘀𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗝𝗮𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗼𝗻, 𝗘𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗳𝗮 𝗢. 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹'𝘀 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗚𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁

✍️: Cathee Annabeth Fe Yutina | Managing Editor
🎨: Xian Gabrielle Cuizon | Editor-in-Chief

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗪𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱 | 𝗣𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗮𝘆

(verb)
𝗣𝗘𝗥𝗘𝗚𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗘
per·e·gri·nate
/pɛrɪɡrɪˌneɪt/

— To travel or move from one place to another, often over long distances, usually with no fixed destination; to wander around in search of new experiences, sights, or adventures.