Twinklers - Toboso National High School

𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐔𝐒 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 | 𝗕𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗲𝗻 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿, 𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗳𝗳𝗶𝘁𝗶

by Azel Grace Artista

A school is more than a place for academic learning. It is an environment where students develop character, build meaningful relationships, and prepare for future responsibilities. Maintaining a safe, orderly, and respectful school environment is therefore a shared responsibility among all members of the school community.

The Anti-Loitering and Anti-Vandalism Symposium for Senior High School Students emphasizes the importance of discipline, accountability, and respect. Loitering during class hours may appear harmless, but it can cause unnecessary distractions and interfere with the learning process. Similarly, vandalism, such as writing on walls and desks or damaging school facilities, affects the appearance, resources, and overall environment of the school.

The symposium reminds students that school policies are not intended merely to impose restrictions or punishment. Rather, they promote responsible behavior and encourage students to understand the consequences of their actions. Simple practices such as staying in designated areas, respecting school property, and maintaining cleanliness can contribute significantly to a more productive and welcoming learning environment.

As Senior High School students preparing for greater responsibilities beyond the classroom, we are expected to demonstrate maturity through our choices and actions. Let us strive to be known not for the damage we leave behind, but for the respect, discipline, and character we demonstrate.

Let your character leave a lasting mark—not graffiti on the walls.

📷: Luisa Jane Jeducos

𝗔𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆, 𝗧𝗡𝗛𝗦𝗶𝗮𝗻𝘀?

The countdown to Intramurals 2026 has begun. Show your spirit and represent your team as the excitement continues to build. One week to go before the excitement unfolds.

𝗧𝗡𝗛𝗦𝗶𝗮𝗻𝘀, 𝗜.𝗗. 𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗖𝗞!

From the songs we love to the lines that speak to us. Express your personality through your high school journey. Add yours now!

prompt by: Hsiri Lee Varon, ig: she.reallywill

𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐔𝐒 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 | 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗰𝗲: 𝗧𝗼𝗯𝗼𝘀𝗼 𝗡𝗛𝗦 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗔𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁 𝗟𝗼𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗩𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘀𝗺

by Evereal Faith Agabon

Toboso National High School held a symposium on Anti-Loitering and Anti-Vandalism this morning, August 10, 2026. The local government unit (LGU), the Philippine National Police (PNP), schools, the Department of Education (DepEd), and barangay officials have joined forces to implement, promote discipline, and respect for school and public space through Ordinance No. 001, Series of 2025.

The ordinance, authorized by Sangguniang Bayan Member Jonel R. Rosa-ot, focuses on addressing anti-loitering and anti-vandalism in schools and public places while encouraging students to become more responsible and respectful members of the community. The initiative seeks to promote awareness, encourage students to respect properties, and strengthen collaboration among the LGU, PNP, DepEd, and barangays.

Public Schools District Supervisor, Sir Julius V. Oberes expressed his commitment and support for the program, he emphasized that discipline is not taught, but it should be practiced, and guided through cooperation and good examples, not just simply demanded.

Municipal representative Albertito D. Morados emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation among the different sectors of the community in protecting school and public spaces. Police Personnel Jay Christopher J. Ramos also highlighted the role of the PNP in supporting the implementation of the ordinance. He explained that police efforts should go beyond enforcement by also educating and guiding students to understand the importance of responsible behavior and help them understand the consequences of their actions.

The symposium also encouraged students to make responsible choices, follow the rules, and take an active role in making their school and community a safer and more disciplined place for everyone. Before ending the symposium, PSDS Sir Julius V. Oberes gave follow-up questions to the students, giving them an opportunity to share their thoughts and understanding.

📷: Angelyn Palang-at

𝐎𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐎𝐍 | 𝗪𝗲 𝗔𝗹𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗞𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝗕𝘂𝗹𝗹𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝘀 𝗪𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴: 𝗦𝗼 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝗗𝗼𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝘁 𝗞𝗲𝗲𝗽 𝗛𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴?
𝘣𝘺 𝘙𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘦 𝘗𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘨𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘰

The fights and conflicts that keep happening in schools are not really because students don't know bullying is wrong. Almost everyone already knows that. The real problem is that this knowledge doesn't really help us in the actual moment — when someone says something rude, when a joke goes too far, or when an argument starts getting heated. Knowing bullying is wrong in theory is different from knowing what to actually do when you're angry, embarrassed, or provoked right in front of your classmates.

I think part of the reason bullying still happens even after we're taught about it is that knowing something and being able to do it in the moment are two different things. These lessons tell us bullying is bad, but they don't always teach us what to do instead — how to calm down before reacting, how to say what we feel without insulting the other person, or how to walk away from a fight without losing face in front of friends. That's why students can hear the message clearly and still not apply it when it actually matters.

This is why I believe schools should build on what these lessons already start, by also focusing on equipping us with skills, not just information. Things like empathy, self-control, and knowing how to communicate calmly are things students can practice, not just facts we're supposed to memorize. If students were taught these skills, conflicts could be handled before they turn into actual fights.

This can't be something students figure out on their own either. The community plays a big part too. Support from home matters as well — a student can learn all the right things at school, but if conflicts are handled with shouting or anger at home, it becomes harder for those lessons to stick.

Awareness campaigns are still important, especially for students hearing this for the first time, but they shouldn't be the only strategy. What we really need is a school environment where handling conflict is treated like a skill we're taught and given chances to practice.

A safer school will come from actually teaching students how to deal with conflict in a healthy way, with adults who stay present and involved the whole way through.

𝗖𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗼𝗼𝗻: Aliya Marco

𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐔𝐒 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 | 𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗣𝘂𝗿𝗽𝗼𝘀𝗲: 𝗧𝗡𝗛𝗦-𝗦𝗛𝗦 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮 𝗕𝘂𝗹𝗹𝘆-𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆

Toboso National High School–Senior High School reaffirmed its commitment to creating a safe and respectful learning environment through its fourth Bully-Free Pledge held immediately after the flag ceremony. The activity was followed by a peace symposium that gathered students and school personnel to deepen their understanding of peace, discipline, and personal responsibility in building a stronger school community.

CPL Jeanel John T. Gequillo (Inf) PA, Civil-Military Operations Non-Commissioned Officer of the 79th Infantry Battalion, discussed the essential role of the Philippine Army in protecting the country, preserving peace, and safeguarding the lives of the Filipino people. He also encouraged students to stay informed about both local and international issues, emphasizing that awareness and understanding are important in resolving conflicts peacefully and becoming responsible citizens.

Meanwhile, CPT Paulo O. Lagarde (Inf) PA, Civil-Military Operations Officer of the 79th Infantry Battalion, inspired students by sharing his personal journey in military service. Reflecting on the challenges he faced, he encouraged learners to embrace discipline and courage, reminding them that fear should never prevent them from pursuing their goals. He emphasized that true strength is shown by continuing to move forward while choosing peace in every situation.

The symposium also featured Apolonio Dela Torre Macadaya, RAgr, National Vice President for Membership of the Youth for Peace and Development Movement Philippines, Inc., who underscored the importance of self-love as the foundation of peace. She spoke about the harmful effects of bullying and reminded students not to neglect their own well-being despite life's challenges. She also highlighted the value of education in building a peaceful, healthy, and supportive school environment, leaving the audience with the message, "Ayaw pabay-i inyung kaugalingon, students! Love yourself and spread peace!"

The Bully-Free Pledge and Peace Symposium served as a meaningful reminder that peace begins with individual choices and grows through collective action. By promoting awareness, compassion, and responsibility, TNHS-SHS continues to encourage its learners to become advocates of respect, kindness, and unity—both inside the campus and beyond.

✍️ & 📷: Hsiri Lee Varon

𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐔𝐒 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒 | "𝗧𝗿𝘂𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗛𝗲𝗹𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴": 𝗧𝗡𝗛𝗦 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗱𝘀 𝟰𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗲𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗶𝗴𝗻 𝗔𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁 𝗕𝘂𝗹𝗹𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴

by Adrian Jay Lagsic

“Bullying is not a joke," declared Rowena R. Alquisola, RN as she addressed students during the 4th Peace Campaign of Toboso National High School today.

As an Office of Population Program worker and pre-marriage counselor, Ms. Alquisola spoke about responsible young adolescent values and stressed that providing students with vital information early on has a real effect on how they treat others. She focused her talk on bullying and explained its meaning clearly to the students.

"Bullying doesn't make someone strong. It is not even a strength, but rather it is a weakness," she said.

She pointed out that there are three main types of bullying: physical, verbal, and cyber bullying.

Meanwhile, she explained that many who bully do so because they want attention, want to show off, or are dealing with problems at home.

On the other hand, she warned students not to believe everything they see online. "Not all posted on social media... are true," she reminded them.

She also said that bullying can lead to students skipping classes and, in worst cases, may cause a victim to think of su***de.

"That is really not okay," she emphasized, adding that bullying is not just a school problem but also a community issue and can even affect a person’s future job.

Meanwhile, Ms. Alquisola gave practical advice on what students can do.

For those being bullied, she said, "You have to find or tell a trusted adult. It could be your parent, your teacher, or even your trusted friend. Don’t fight back with violence. Remember, fighting back is not right... if you are being bullied, it is not your fault."

For bystanders, she had a direct message as well. "You have to stand and support the victim instead of just watching. Silence means you support the bully. Do not be shy."

She ended by reminding everyone that "our school should be a safe space for everyone." She closed with, "True courage is in helping, not in hurting. Kindness over cruelty. Let’s be kind to others, and let us stop bullying. I promise to speak up, to step in, and be kind."

To end the program, OIC Belinda Mahilum presented Ms. Alquisola with a Certificate of Recognition. Coordinator Kreah Roiss Pesanon also led the activities for the campaign.

Through this peace campaign, Toboso National High School continues to push for respect and kindness in order to keep the school safe for all students.

📷: Gleizel Arquiza

𝐎𝐏𝐈𝐍𝐈𝐎𝐍: 𝗣𝗮𝘅 𝗦𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮: 𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗣𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀' 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗔𝗜 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗷𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝗛𝗮𝘀 𝗦𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗗𝗲𝗯𝗮𝘁𝗲

by Pearl Erlyn Bintad

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries around the world, increasing the demand for advanced technologies and semiconductor production. In 2026, the Philippine government announced its participation in Pax Silica, an international initiative that aims to strengthen AI infrastructure and semiconductor manufacturing. As part of the project, a 1,620-hectare AI and semiconductor hub will be developed in New Clark City, Tarlac, with the goal of attracting foreign investments, creating jobs, and expanding the country’s role in the global technology industry.

The Philippines was chosen because of its strategic location, skilled workforce, and established semiconductor sector. Supporters believe the project could boost economic growth by generating employment, encouraging technological innovation, and increasing foreign investment. However, some experts note that while manufacturing may take place locally, higher-value activities such as advanced research and chip design could remain in other countries, limiting the long-term economic benefits for the Philippines.

The project has also sparked public debate due to concerns about its environmental and social impacts. Large AI data centers require significant amounts of electricity and water, raising questions about resource use and environmental sustainability. Other concerns involve land conversion, the possible effects on nearby communities, and the role of foreign governments and companies in the project. In response, the government has stated that environmental safeguards will be implemented and that all agreements will remain subject to Philippine laws, ensuring that national sovereignty is protected.

The discussions surrounding Pax Silica highlight the challenge of balancing economic development with environmental protection, community welfare, and responsible governance. While the initiative offers opportunities for technological advancement and investment, it also emphasizes the importance of transparency, careful planning, and informed public dialogue to ensure that the project’s benefits are shared while minimizing its potential risks.

🖼: Shane Mary Dada

References

Reuters. (2026, May 21). U.S., Philippines to reach deal on economic security zone under Pax Silica. https://www.reuters.com/world/china/us-philippines-reach-deal-economic-security-zone-sooner-rather-than-later-us-2026-05-21/

Philippine News Agency. (2026). Government assures safeguards in proposed Pax Silica project. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1279807

Philippine News Agency. (2026). Planned Pax Silica project complies with Philippine laws. https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1280187

PEP.ph. (2026). Explainer: What is Pax Silica and why does it matter to Filipinos? https://www.pep.ph/pepalerts/fyi/193155/explainer-what-is-pax-silica-a5229-20260728-lfrm

Newsbytes Philippines. (2026). Evaluating criticisms over Philippine participation in Pax Silica. https://newsbytes.ph/2026/07/25/glass-house-evaluating-criticisms-over-ph-participation-in-pax-silica/

𝐂𝐀𝐌𝐏𝐔𝐒 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒: 𝗧𝗡𝗛𝗦-𝗦𝗛𝗦 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗕𝘂𝗹𝗹𝘆-𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗣𝗹𝗲𝗱𝗴𝗲

by Nesel Joy Vince

Toboso National High School Senior High School organized an inspiring Bully-Free Pledge on July 27, 2026, after the morning flag ceremony to encourage unity, kindness, and understanding among all students. The entire school community; including students, faculty and saffs, gathered together to show their strong commitment to peace—promising to reject violence and resolve differences through friendly conversations. It motivated students to stand up for one another and help build a positive campus where every single person feels respected and safe.

Photo by Hsiri Lee Varon