The Mahogany

The Mariano Marcos State University - Laboratory High School Batac's official school publication is now making its latest issue open to browse for the public.

Now on its 30th volume, the publication remains steadfast in its commitment to journalism that matters and lasts. From pressing discussions amplified by our student journalists, to the culture both inside and outside the grounds of the institution, the editorial board remains dedicated to upholding the integrity of student journalism through the paper, rooted in free speech and individuality.

Check the most recent issue here:
bit.ly/themahoganyvol-30
bit.ly/themahoganyvol-30
bit.ly/themahoganyvol-30

The voices of the masses in the studentry will always prevail.
For legacy, honor, service, and brilliance, this is The Mahogany.

𝙈𝙮 𝙁𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 𝙏𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝘼𝙢𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙖𝙣 𝘿𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙢
𝖯𝗁𝗂𝗅𝖾𝗇 𝖢𝗁𝗎𝖺 |

With its majestic skyscrapers, lively cities, beautiful coastlines, and picturesque landscapes, the United States stands out as a top tourist spot for everyone, especially for Filipinos. Whether to reconnect with family, or simply just to explore and take in the sights, the allure of America is undeniable.

Over a year ago, my family began making plans for our long-awaited trip to the U.S. together. This marks the first journey for me, my older sister, and my mom to explore the other side of the globe. Excitement gushed within me as I listened to my father share the news.

The very day after that, we made our way to the U.S. Embassy to apply for our visas. Fortunately, the process went smoothly, and our approval came through quickly. We eagerly shared the news to our relatives in America about our upcoming visit, and they asked us to bring along their favorite Filipino treats; foods they missed and couldn't get overseas. True to tradition, we prepared a generous ‘pasalubong’ for them.

June 13 marks the moment—the day we embarked on our journey to America. We flew with EVA Airlines, choosing San Jose, California, as our first stop—the home of my dad’s sister. The 12-hour flight was rather uneventful; as someone who struggles with sleep, I found it quite challenging to sleep for an extended period on the plane. Nevertheless, I appreciated the service the airline offers.

Upon landing in San Jose, we were surprised to see my cousins and the family of my dad's sister waiting and welcoming us here. Their warm welcome and happiness at our arrival made the long journey worth every moment. Reuniting after so long filled the air with a sense of love and belonging.
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𝘛𝘢𝘱 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘶𝘭𝘭 𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘭𝘦.

| 𝙈𝙈𝙎𝙐 𝙐𝙃𝙎 𝘽𝙖𝙩𝙖𝙘 '99 𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 𝗵𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗶𝘁

As part of the grand alumni homecoming celebration, Batch 1999 of the Mariano Marcos State University - University High School (UHS) celebrated their legacy through a tree planting activity in Sitio Bullilising, Brgy. Cangrunaan, City of Batac, Ilocos Norte on December 21, 2024.

The successful event was made possible through the efforts of alums, led by Barangay Captain Ian Carlo Rivera and Sangguniang Kabataan officials, along with the support of Prof. Clarence S. Ordonia, the student affairs coordinator of MMSU LHS Batac, and other local organizers.

“We hope that these trees will serve as a lasting symbol of our unity and commitment to the community,” said Barangay Captain Ian Carlo Rivera.

Moreover, according to another alumnus, “The tree planting was more than just a way to celebrate their homecoming. It was a chance to reconcile with their roots, contribute to the community, and leave a legacy of sustainability for years to come.”

The said activity serves as a testament to the batch’s dedication to their alma mater, their hometown, and future generations by leaving behind a green and gold legacy and the true stallion spirit.

| 𝙇𝙃𝙎𝘽 𝙨𝙩𝙪𝙙𝙚𝙨 𝗰𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗵 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗨𝗣𝗡 𝗦𝗞𝗦 '25

Driven by their social creativity, both Junior High School (JHS) and Senior High School (SHS) Stallions paved their way to overall champion in both categories in the Ilocos Norte Provincial Eliminations in UP Namnama’s 43rd Provincial Sirib Quiz Show & 16th Saririt Cultural Festival held in Bangui National High School, January 5.

Atoze Alonzo, Gabriel Onera, and Jasper John Tumamao clinched 1st place in the Junior High School (JHS) category of the Sirib Quiz Show, dominating the competition with their impressive knowledge.

At the cultural festival, Alyana Ynez Aurora Chua and Rhyanna Mae Pasion emerged victorious, each claiming 1st place in English and Ilocano Oration, respectively. In Photojournalism and Pagsulat ng Sanaysay, Geri Ethan Repollosa and Klayrene Chelwin Capet both earned 2nd place. At the same time, Hannah Luzcille Pagdilao secured 2nd in Ilocano Vocal Solo, Mariella Eugenia Erojo took 3rd in Essay Writing, Alaina Rose Galapon placed 3rd in English Short Story Writing, and Rainah Ysabel Franco rounded out the achievements with 3rd in Extemporaneous Speaking.

Other participants from the category included Joanna Marie Batistiana for the Short story making - Filipino, Ma. Brianna Maxime Marcos in Poster Making, and Jamaica Sacopaso in Ilocano Poem Writing.

Moreover, the Senior High School category dominated all the participating events, with John Lynyrd Ganitano, Edward Galdores, and Chaieser Andrei Diculen securing 1st place in Pagsulat ng Sanaysay, Essay Writing (Ilocano), and Traditional Poster Making, respectively. Jervel Keith Labayan, Jewelly Nereigne Dutdut, and Jasmine Daduyo earned 2nd place in Short Story (Ilocano), Impromptu Speaking, and Dagliang Talumpati, while Dainelle Angelo Labuton grabbed 3rd place in Essay Writing.

Edward Joseph Galdores reflected on his experience, saying, “I didn’t expect that, to be honest, because almost all of my contenders were so confident with their pieces. But, I continued to pray, even for the least place, but thank God, he gave me so much more; that’s why I’m so thankful.”

Dr. Mark Lawrence A. Fernandez, Prof. Rosalie J. Bacister, Mr. Macquen D. Balucio, Prof. Marlene B. Cabagan, Prof. Rhea M. Cabrera, and Prof. Gabriel B. Galdores served as coaches of the students.

With the theme, “Bin-i ti kabbaro nga lubong: Planting Seeds for a Better Tomorrow,” the annual contest provided an opportunity to demonstrate the student’s capacity to plant the seeds of a new tomorrow and foster the bright future of the Ilocano youth.