Issue 1. Vol.

1 07/17– 03/18

CISAT STAR
THE

The Official Publication of Children’s Integrated School of Alta Tierra, Inc.

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From the editor and staff
Dear Reader,

This school year we celebrated CISAT, Inc.’s 35th Founding Anniversary

and we did it in style!

First, we presented our students’ many gifts, talents and skills to an

audience of hundreds and hundreds of people in two Mall Shows.

Next we put on the first-ever Parade of Lights in Iloilo City! Along the
city’s busiest highway, Disney-themed parade floats lit up the Plazuela de Iloilo
façade and people took notice, snapping fun selfies and groufies and making
insta-stars of our Disney characters.

Then, the new school logo was launched which showed not only how
resilient CISAT, Inc. is but also how ready she is to be bigger, better and bolder,
rising to the occasion, answering the challenge of progress and nurturing the
exemplary.

Lastly, we put on a spectacular musical production that the whole

town talked about.

However, the celebration and presentation missed out on one thing

and this is the main feature of this year’s publication. This issue showcases the
unseen, intangible works of our students who are skilled artisans in the craft of
literature and talented with the gift of words.

Enjoy!

The CISAT STAR Staff 2017—2018

FRANCINE DENISSE PALOMAR

Editor- in-Chief
Divine Grace Llamas Mikhaela Sophia Harder
Ellen Faye Ann Yabut Princess Ann Duyag
Associate Editors Managing Editors

Staff Writers
Eushabelle Maurice Fortes Virgil Elijah Noriega
Denise Alexa Malones Ma. Roisa Joy Amonoy
Santiago Miguel Tan Yau Janielle Faith Torres

Ms. Ida Tutor

Mr. John Paul Justiniani
CISAT Star Advisers
Table of Contents
Short Stories

Wilting Daisies p.5

So Quiet When the Pain Comes p.8
Happily Ever After Doesn’t Exist p.9
The Love of a Parent p.11
Man on the Trophy p.12
A Big Dream Experience p.14
Block p.15
A Life Full of Dreams p.17
The Hidden Glen p.18
The Journey to Mars p.19

Poetry
Moon p.16
Real Hero p.22
Modern Day Hero p.23
My Modern Day Hero p.23
A Hero Finds A Way p.24
Hero In My Heart p.24
Books, My Heroes p.25
My Modern Day Heroes p.26
Healthy Diet, Healthy Life p.27
Healthy Life, Healthy Diet p.27
My School p.28
My Wonderful School
My Amazing School
My Parents p.29
My Modern Day Heroes
Christmas
{It is sure} p.30
Amor Noctis
Blue Moon p.31
Vanishing Magic

Travelogues / Essays
All Around p.32
Shawarma p.33

NEWS p.35 4
EDITORIAL p.39
FEATURE p.40
YEAR END WRAP IN PHOTOS
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 Wilting Daisies By Eve Casio
Her body floated in the dark abyss of nothingness after she
passed out on the floor. She needed to rest and sleep her depression
over but even her dreams turned into horrible nightmares. She couldn't
take it. She couldn't stand the pain. It was too much that it started
drowning her in her thoughts.

Her eyes suddenly fluttered open and found herself in the com-
fort of her bed with her old stuffed rabbit, surrounded by nothing but
darkness she felt scared and lonely because of the silence. A long white
screen rotated around her bed and started to show a film, but it wasn't
just any film. It was her life.

The first clip was when she was a kid in the first day of primary
school. She was scared to walk in the classroom but her mother and
grandmother reassured her everything was going to be okay; that she'd
make friends when she got in so she did and smiled brightly at every-
one.

Second clip was when she was 10, she started to talk to the other
kids and make friends. She smiled, played, laughed and had fun. She
smiled at the memories in front of her but her smile slowly faded when
she watched her life slowly get miserable and miserable, memory after
memory.

A tear slipped from her eye. She felt numb yet at that point, the
flashback stopped.

The toy bunny suddenly fell from her bed, noticing it's absence,
she looked over the edge but it wasn't there.

"Hi there, were you looking for me master?" A male voice was heard out
6
of nowhere making her jump.
"I'm sorry for startling you master. I didn't mean to." He bowed in apology
She turned and looked face to face with a man with white hair wearing a
black and white butler suit. (The kind of suit that the monopoly guy
would wear but white.) And he had a white top hat with a black ribbon.
Even a cane!

"Y-you were my stuffed toy?" She asked surprised by the sudden pres-
ence.

"Hehe, yes." He chuckled.

"I like your outfit. " She complimented, smiling weakly at the guy. The
young man smiled back.

"Thank you master. I know I'm fabulous." She didn't know why she was
called master but she just went with it. "Let me take you somewhere mas-
ter."

Holding out a hand, his master gladly took it as the screen disappeared
quickly and she was in a different room, a brighter one, a much fancier
room. They stepped out the door, walked down a long hall and crossed a
bridge leading to another tower. She looked at the sides of the bridge and
she saw nothing but clouds and dragons flying around.

She was so amused at the sight that the

bunny guy had to pull her in the next tower. There
were different people and animals wearing uniforms
of maids and butlers in the fancy place while there
were toys and cats everywhere! Everyone bowed at
her presence making her question what's happen-
ing.

"Here it is master." He showed a door with his mas- 7

ter's name and opened it revealing a glass box pro-
tecting daisies inside, slowly wilting.
 The room was slowly turning colder by the minute. She saw for
herself what was happening.

"This is you. After what you've been going through this is what has been
happening. You're changing into a new person. Master." He quivered as he
explained. Scared to lose his master.

She couldn't say anything. She was speechless and out of words to
mutter. He took her out of the room and walked a cobblestone path lead-
ing to a full length window.

She took time to stare at the clouds and take in what was happen-
ing but the rabbit guy snapped her out of her trance "Master?"

"Hmmm?" She hummed turning to him as they shared a hug. "Master

please don't do this again. And please... Forgive me." He uttered with a
light sniffle.

"What do you mean?" She pulled away and asked looking straight into his
glassy eyes, the maids and butlers gathering behind him.

"I'm sorry master. But you have to wake up..."

He uttered again and pushed her out to the window as she let out
a gasp, reaching out to the guy that turned back into her stuffed bunny. A
tear slipped from his buttoned eyes as she fell. She fell through the
clouds with her eyes fixed on the castle she was in that slowly faded be-
hind the thick white clouds. Tears flew out of eyes as she fell nearer to the
ground, her dress fading to black, white butterflies that colored the cloth
flew free in the air as her body hit the hard ground. Everything went
black. Her body jerked and her eyes shot open, greeted by the plain
white ceiling illuminated by the sunlight coming from the window.

"I'm... still alive." She mumbled to herself heaving a sigh 8

"You better be! You've been asleep for three days now!"
 So Quiet When The Pain Comes
By Francine Denise Palomar
You sit, and you stir,
you grieve and you grieve.
The longer you sit at the ocean
you lose more time than you think.

It's in the clink of their glasses joining in a toast, amber liquid

sloshing against the sides only to settle back down.

In the way she tells him to look in the mirror, asking the young
man what he sees. In the words of assurance spoken with certainty.

It is in her smile-- a thing of watered-down emotion seeping

through, only the barest hint of the flurry in her chest coming to the sur-
face— offered in an attempt to comfort the other.

She struggles against the waves crashing around her. Breathes.

It is the one thing that he cannot take note of in this moment, not
even with eyes trained by years of experience and a honed sense for
reading into the people around him. She knows what he is capable of,
knows how he sees, and she uses it to her advantage now.

She keeps her distance as she directs his gaze onto their reflec-
tions on the tri-fold mirror.

Oh, her mind supplies, you really haven't any idea, have you?

She stands by the aisle as they both watch the church doors open,
sunlight spilling onto the floor and then some, until it seems that the
whole of the grandiose hall's aisle is bathed in it.

She watches the next moments unravel with rapt eyes, all the while
managing to carry a smile on her face.

The sound of two rings dropped onto a palm is far louder

9 to her
ears than it is to anyone else's, and yet, she stays right where she is.
 Not a move; not a sound. She wouldn‘t dare.

She isn't angry at anyone. Not him, and certainly not her. (For her
own sanity, she refuses to call her his wife. Not yet.)

She only has her own self to blame, after all. That is how it has
been for the entirety of her life; she doesn't see the need to change
it now, of all times.

When the priest drawls, "Speak now, or forever hold your peace,"
………..she entertains the thought for a fleeting second. Would you?

The prompt reverberates through the church. She trains

…………..her eyes to stare at the white marble floor, as if it helps. In a
…………..way, it does; she can avoid looking at the way the woman clad
……….. in white has her hands wrapped in his. She drowns in the
……………. silence that follows, allowing her heart to go down with
…………...it. No, is her answer.

Happily Ever After Doesn’t Exist!

By Bea Del Rosario
A smile crept on my face as I saw her fast approaching. A soft
chuckle escaped my lips when I saw her struggling to get to me as fast as
she could; and there she went, charming me with her beet red face and
her trying to catch her breath.

Everything she did was beautiful to me, every moment with her
was pure bliss. I sighed as I took in this wonderful moment, memorizing
the scenery, the aroma, the soft breeze of the air, and her; standing there,
in front of me, gracing me with her presence.

I loved everything about her. I loved her hair, the way

10 it danced
with the wind's melody. I loved her eyes, the tips crinkled whenever she
caught sight of me.
 I loved her lips, oh how I wish I could taste the sweetness I be-
lieve them to be. I loved her smile, the way her lips curled up and how
they deeply comforted me.

I loved her hands, how little they were compared to mine but
nonetheless fit in my hands like a perfect puzzle piece... and the list
goes on.

I loved her, I love her, I will always love her.

Yet it wass but a dream that I could cherish this moment forever.

I could only imagine how much pain it would cause her if I voiced
out these emotions.

Once again, I was mesmerized by how she slowly took hold of my

hand, such a little gesture yet such a big impression upon my person.

She gave out a very tired sigh and looked up to meet my gaze; a
tear streaming down her beautiful face.

I began to question myself; perhaps, I have become a nuisance to

her - a huge problem that resulted in her shedding such precious tears?
Will her life be better off without me barging in it?

I continued to blame myself but I stopped, as soon as those

words escaped from her mouth. "I'm in love with you..."

Time stopped at that very moment.

I was beyond happy! Everything seemed like a dream; a dream

coming true! But I knew. I always knew.

I didn't deserve this happy ending.

Then it was my turn to weep.

11
"You shouldn't be." I told her as gently as I could as I let her go
and drifted off to nothingness.
 The Love of a Parent
By: Hanah Faith Espada

Our parents are important to us, God gave them to us so that we

will have a guide to our life. This story is about the life of a parent.

The parents of Dein were always busy in work, her mother is a

doctor and her father was a lawyer. Dein always asked ―Why are they al-
ways busy?‖ ―Do they still love me?‖ These are some questions she kept in
her mind. If people were made to describe Dein, most of them would say
she was mean or that she was a spoiled brat.

One night she saw her mother and father fighting, ―I hate you!‖
she suddenly shouted at them. Her parents were both shocked by what
they saw and heard.

Dein‘s parents tried to approach and explain, but she avoided

them. Then, Dein decided to leave. Dein lived with her friend, Keziah. She
was Dein‘s best friend since 5th grade. Keziah was the only person who
knew the real attitude of Dein. Dein found it hard without her parents, but
what could she do? It was her choice to leave them. No one gave her al-
lowance, so she planned to find work.

After a week, Dein found herself a job. She was accepted to work
at a coffee shop near Keziah‘s house. She really didn‘t want to work but
she had no choice, she hadn‘t enough money for her to live.

One day she planned to pay a visit to her parents. She walked
12
alone with earphones plugged in her ears. When she arrived, she saw her
aunt.
 She was so confused because no one had ever come to their be-
cause her parents were always busy. Only her friends had visited their
house. Out of confusion, Dein asked her aunt. ―Aunt Naih, what made you
visit? I‘m sorry my parents are not home yet.‖ But Dein‘s aunt just looked
at Dein with teary eyes and said, ―Your parents had an accident last week.
They were trying to find you. They were so worried. They were in a hurry
that they hadn‘t notice an approaching car‖

Dein didn‘t utter a word. She couldn‘t help it but to cry, she hur-
riedly went to the hospital and saw her parent dead. She was feels so
devastated and burst out her tears. She prayed and said sorry to the Lord.
She then remembered what her aunt said, her parents never stopped
looking for her. Now she realized that her parents really do love her so

Man on the Trophy

By Ellen Faye Ann Yabut

Long ago, a gigantic tower stood strong in the peak of Mount Par-
nassus. People who lived in the valley long dreamt of reaching the top-
most part of the tower, wondering what lay beyond but no one dared to
even climb it.

A stone‘s throw away, there lived a curious lad named Argadon. He

was the son of the town‘s merchant. Argadon always thought of things
beyond ordinary. He believed that the tower would be the start of more
answered curiosities and that he‘d be the first living man to reach its top.

―You‘ll never finish climbing the tower. No one ever did.‖ people
told him. ―Then, I‘ll be the first!‖ he humbly answered. He packed and
prepared a ton of things. He considered every advantage13 and conse-
quence of his decision. Not long after, he started his journey.
 Before reaching the tower, he tried to ascend the mountain, with
angry winds welcoming him from one side to another. Argadon contin-
ued. Finally, he reached the tower‘s foot. Not wasting a second, Argadon
took his first step on the tower‘s concrete slab.

Despite exhaustion, Argadon courageously persisted on his goal -

aiming for the top. Every day of his journey was too risky for him.

His survival was unpredictable. Would he be able to take the risks

for the discovery of mankind?

After a long time, Argadon reached the top tower. Raising both
arms in victory, tears coursed through his face with so much joy and a
feeling of accomplishment. ―I did it!‖ he shouted.

The people down below in the valley of Mount Parnassus heard

him and clapped their hands and celebrated with him.

If you‘re facing a great challenge in your life, think of Argadon.

Don‘t let the merciless winds of life hinder you from dreaming and aspir-
ing for greater.

It will not be too easy in the start, but once you finish, you will al-
ways be fulfilled and contented in your life.

If you have the patience and determination to aim for the passion
you want in the future, success will always be sure.

Think of how Argadon, man on the trophy, symbolizes victory.

Beforehand, that man climbed the tower which represented the

trophy‘s body.

If you were Argadon, would you reach the top, and be

14the man on
your life‘s trophy?
 A Big Dream Experience
by: Ethan Brent Ronco

When I was in school I always dreamt of being an astronaut. I even

talked about it with my friends. One night, something unusual started
while I was sleeping. ― Oh! A rocket ship! I can‘t believe I‘m dressed up as
an astronaut! Then I started my journey , I walked to my rocket ship and I
went to Mars to make a future city with my fellow astronauts.

―Wait!‖, I shouted. I saw an alien. ―Aaaaaahhhh!‖ He approached

us and needed our help, their food and their resources had been taken.
He said, ―We all need your help.‖ If we can‘t have them back we‘ll get
weaker and weaker and our race will be gone!‖

For a minute, we talked about this and I said ―Should we help

them? They seem really serious about their situation‖. All of us agreed.
Half of us stayed behind to make the city and the other half will be help-
ing the aliens and I was one of them.

They said that one of their friends took their supplies and he was
hiding somewhere near Olympus Mons, the biggest volcano known to
man and any other race. We went there and it is really fun. They got Ja-
cuzzis, malls, just like the human world and finally we found it. Wow!
Look at how big that volcano is!‖

Finally, we found it. These were the supplies we needed to find,

the resources. Yeah! We searched and searched for the alien who took it
but to no avail. Anyway, it didn‘t really matter because the alien friends
we helped would no longer get weaker. We returned back to the base and
the city was built. All of the aliens were grateful as they couldn‘t stop
thanking us. ‖Wow! What an honor!‖, my friend said .

We returned to earth happily and…Aaaahhhh! Where am 15 I? Wait I‘m

late!.‖Woahh! It‘s only a dream.‖ It doesn‘t really matter, at least I have a
good experience of being an astronaut… for a night.
 Block By: Divine Grace
Llamas
‗Tick…Tick…Tick…‘ the clock was reminding me of every second that
was passing by. Frustration was written all over my face. I was fidgeting,
tapping my foot furiously, gripping my hair every few seconds.

The silence, that used to give me comfort, was now infuriating. All
I could hear was my uneven breaths, the wind knocking on my window.

It was dark, and the whole city was asleep, leaving me awake in
the dead of the night. Piles of crumpled paper filled with rotten ideas was
scattered on the hardwood floor.

I stared intently at the blank piece of paper that lay on my desk. It

was making me drown in my own thoughts. It was suffocating.

Every word, every sketch, none of it felt right anymore. Yet,

those artists above me were burning with passion, their fame faltering.
For now, I am left with nothing but ashes. I was burnt out, my imagina-
tion losing all its color.

There are days where I felt like I was caged from my artistic free-
dom. Today was one of those days, or nights rather. Nothing good came
out.

It felt like a boundary, an endless wall blocking me from reaching

the other side. I felt exhausted trying to break through.

I crumpled the blank paper, which I know I shouldn‘t have done. I

sighed seeing it was 4:06 am. It was no wonder why I felt so drained.

Dragging my feet to my bed, I removed my phone from its

charger. It won‘t hurt too read a few notifications before I go 16
to sleep.

A content smile made its way to my lips, letting out tiny chuckles.
 The comments from a previous story I wrote never failed to make
me smile. The fact that people from all over the world enjoyed my work
was really the only thing that kept me going.

Maybe that‘s why I desperately tried to make a new chapter, or

make a new illustration. I burnt myself out.

Yet despite the long period of time I hadn‘t returned. They under-
stand, and manage to care for me in their own ways. Telling me to take a
rest, or not overwork.

Hopefully, when the sun rises, the wall before me will slowly van-
ish, and I may have a spark of passion once again.

Moon by Divine Grace Llamas

Your eyes don’t shine like the sun

Giving light to the world

You don’t care about anyone

Like you rule the dead in the under- But to me , you are meaningful.
world.
Just as much as the stars in the sky.

Because the light of the sun , is painful.

You have that anger in you.
I can stare for as long as I want, without
Because of the lies you’ve been told, having to cry.
And the pain you went through.

No wonder why you’re always so cold. And although you may seem

unwelcoming,
You isolate yourself from everyone, You still have that heart inside.
When you have all the stars around you. You were there in my darkest moments,
17
You only trust one person, and he is which is pretty settling.
your sun. But after all , you are the light in the
Because he will always stay true. dead of the night.
 “A Life Full of Dreams”
by: Ma. Roisa Amonoy

One lonely night, Mary was sitting by the window, watching the
stars above, and wondering how beautiful her life would be if she could be
as rich as Bill Gates. Mary came from a poor family. She was enrolled in a
public school. There were five children in their family and so, her parents
could not afford to enroll them in a private school.

One evening, she witnessed how her mother who was lying sickly
in her bed (she had a brain tumor and she had no chance of surviving)
slowly closed her eyes and took her last breath. It was the most painful
moment in her life.

―What will happen now‖ She thought, weeping tears of desperation

and anguish for the loss of her beloved mother. But life had to go on. She
had to face it.

After three years, Mary graduated in the sixth grade. She was the
valedictorian of their batch. In her speech she wrote: ―I am fortunate to
have had a mother like her. I will do my very best to finish my studies, and
be a successful lawyer someday. I will turn our nipa hut into a huge man-
sion and I will bring my family on a tour around the world. All my dreams
will come true because of the love of my family.‖ She received her diploma
together with a big round of applause from the audience.

She did do her best during her high school and college days.
She graduated in the field of law and became a well-known lawyer in the
country. Her won her cases. She knew that her mother would have been
very happy for her. Her never gave up on her dream because of her love
for God and her family. Her life may have been full of trials and challenges
but through prayers, hard work and determination, she passed through
18
the eye of a needle and became successful.
The Hidden Glen
by:Angela Villan

One day, a girl named Crystal was on her way home when saw
something strange in the forest. Curious, she went into the forest to get a
better look. She saw a small, blue orb floating and glowing in mid-air.
When she went closer, she heard it faintly whispering to her, inviting her
to follow. As she took her first step, she heard a little girl‘s voice calling
her name. ―Crystal! Crystal!‖ It was her sister Annie looking for her. Bro-
ken from her daze, she turned back and headed toward her sister.

On her way to school the next day, she thought about skipping
classes but hesitated. After school, she hurried back to the same place
she was and saw the orb again. She followed it into a hidden part of the
forest. What she saw filled wonder. It was a glen filled with beautiful crea-
tures and colorful flowers. She began to wonder why, though many peo-
ple lived and went around in the forest, this part of the forest seemed to
remain untouched.

It was the weekend when she went back to the forest. She didn‘t
realize at first that her sister followed her but when she noticed Annie,
she got mad at her and scolded her sister when they got home. Later, she
realized her mistake and asked for forgiveness but her Annie wouldn‘t
forgive her.

The next day, Crystal told her sister that she had a surprise. It was
already late in the afternoon when she brought her sister to the secret
glade. When her sister saw it for the first time, she was so amazed. She
asked Crystal, ―Is this really real?‖ Crystal answered, ―Yes it is. It‘s beauti-
ful isn‘t it? Do you want to go around?‖ Crystal asked. ―Yes!‖ Annie an-
swered excitedly. Since then, as often as they could, they spent every af-
ternoon with each other there contentedly and happily in19their hidden
corner of the forest.
The Journey to Mars
BY: RYAN KRISTIAN L. RUIZ

It was 2037 and NASA pursued an impossible journey to Mars.

John Smith, Ronald ―Reds‖ Daniels and Mark Porttney were the first hu-
mans to go to Mars. Timothy Turners, a doctor of physics and leading de-
veloper of aerospace engineering technology, was responsible for build-
ing E2-M, the rocket ship the astronauts were riding.

They were guided from earth throughout the entire journey. The
brave astronauts entered E2-M and said their prayers ―Are we gonna die?‖
John Smith asked. ―Well, let‘s hope if we will, we will always be remem-
bered.‖ Ronald said.

Turners started the countdown, T-minus ten seconds before blast

off… 5... 4... 3… 2 ... 1... Blast off!!!!

E2-M blasted off into the atmosphere and soon after, entered
outer space. Everyone in the rocket ship looked out into space and stared
at their home planet, Earth. As Mark saw the Earth drift father and farther
away, each second, he thought of miserable death in the situation.

Instead, Mark tried turning ideas around. ―Hey guys let‘s have fun
with anti-gravity.‖ Mark said. Then everybody started jumping, rolling,
and doing acrobatic stunts while floating in the air. Soon after, John‘s
stomach rumbled. ―Guys lets grab something to eat.‖ He said. ―Sure‖,
Ronald and Mark agreed.

All of them got their packed sweet and sour chicken and started
gobbling up the food. While eating, Dr. Timothy Turners from NASA
headquarters called the crew. ―You men are gonna make history. You‘ve
made it this far. Now you boys should make it. ―We won‘t fail you now, we
won‘t ever fail you.‖ Ronald replied for the group. 20

Twenty minutes later, the three of them were bored and scared at
the same time. A call came in from Prof. Howard Stiles, head and director
of NASA. ―Boys, you are going to a journey no one has done before. You
are about to write history and one last thing, before you jump into your
spacesuits, I want to tell you something…Do everything you can!!!

After five seconds, Dr. Turners sent them a little note ―Three of
you will enter the windy, North-Eastern part of Mars. Got that? OK! Now
set your coordinates to the Mauian Plains, over and out.‖ Three of them
rushed to prepare. Then one last call broke out. ―Oh yeah, you have T-
minus 10 minutes before landing‖ Dr. Turners said.

Meanwhile, back at the headquarters, right after Turner‘s call NASA

lost track of E2-M. Some members of the communications team said a
stream of dust and particles have interrupted the signal. Six minutes later
they just reconnected to E2-M and spotted a stray asteroid headed di-
rectly toward the rocket ship.

―Reset your course to Laventine Valley! Now!‖ screamed Dr. Turner over
the mic. ―Why?‖ John asked blankly. ―There is an asteroid heading your
way!‖ The astronauts scrambled to reset their flight trajectory and adjust
their coordinates to Laventine Valley narrowly missing the asteroid. Had
they delayed by a nanosecond, their mission would have come to a very
bad end.

They had successfully reached Mars‘ atmosphere and at last they

landed. The crew told headquarters ―We‘ve made it!‖ All people in head-
quarters yelled hooray and hallelujah.

There was only one last thing to do. Step on Mars. Ronald took his
first step on Mars. He was now the first man to step on Mars. He had
used his right foot first to step on Mars. They planted the flag of the USA,
took a sample of rock and sand and explored the area. tory. That is how the
It got stormy so they decided to go home. The count- ney 21to Mars could
down started and ended then headed back home to been.
Earth, landing in Lake Erie and became legends in his-
22
 Poems on :

REAL HERO
by Divine Grace Llamas
I know a hero needs not to wear a They just make my heart flutter with
cape whatever they do
They say a hero defeats evil, no Their words travel deep to my soul
matter the size or shape In the first place, that was their goal

Well, my kind of hero is not what ―Stay Alive‖, a message that reaches
you‘d expect out
So do hold your tongue and show To make people matter, that‘s what
me some respect they‘re about

My kind of hero makes me grin, They were with me, when I was sad
giggle, and cry and lost
I‘ll remember them dearly, till the They made me feel warm, when I
day I die was covered in frost

You may noticed I said them, that‘s A hero they were, not only
23 to me
because there‘s two They saved us, as we marched to
the sea
 Modern
Day
Heroes
Heroes
for you may be Superman
For me, they are simply human
They may not be extraordinary
But had made a change in the country My Modern
They can be found anywhere
Working hard because they care My friends, teachers, and fami-
Sleepless nights became a habit ly
Being studious they love it We learned more than a thing
or two
Modern day heroes are there All throughout the ages
When you need help and care You are amazing and unique
Considered our second parents
Help us to be courteous everyday You have learned and taught
us lessons
In school, they help Like they are magic tricks
In our life, they influence Look, we don‘t hate you
Simple but make a difference Nor do we hate school
For me, they are our Teachers
Mikhaela Sophia Harder Maybe we do because
Of the things
That made us coo coo
I am happy I knew you

For you are a person that has become

A friend, a parent and a teacher
24 to me
You have opened my eyes and
Helped me see a new perspective
Eve Casio
A Hero Who Finds A Way
My hero may not be as beautiful as our super heroes
But for me, she is the best
For every problem that comes,
She helps me and becomes my closest friend

She is my mom
Who helps me in every way
She is the best in the fam
Who brings far away

She worries when I‘m in trouble

And starts to find a way
I can see the happiness in her eyes
When she sees me okay

So, I love her in return

To be thankful in every way
HERO IN Guide her as she turns
To be loving to be gay
MY HEART
Everyone knows a hero has power
He defeats evil in any hour
But I know a hero that doesn‘t need those
He brings joy to the people anywhere he goes

Some people their heroes are their parents

Others, their neighbors, classmates or friends
You might know him, he is special to me
Wherever he is, he makes me smile with glee

He might not be the perfect hero in my life

But I know he can make things alright
Even though we don‘t talk a lot
25
He still remains as my hero in my heart

Princess Ann Duyag

 Books, My Heroes
What are my modern day heroes?
Wait, what does a hero shows?
Does someone know?
Anyone, I suppose

Others said, they beat the enemies I believe that reading is my passion
and foes That leads me to discover more cre-
Or let magic grow some rose ation
Most said, they can feed a thousand Civics, politics, and modernization
sows, It also helps develop our nation
Are they right between her bows?
From reality to fantasies,
Aha! I knew. Almanacs and dictionaries.
Those books are too! All contain values and learning,
The real heroes for me and you, For the improvement and yearning.
A great companion and a few
It‘s the stories heroes who taught us
I‘ll tell you what a book can offer bravery,
Not magic or power Princesses who showed us life‘s
Neither trees nor towers beauty
Think big and greater Knights who helped us face the dif-
ficulty
And others who, helped us to con-
quer reality

Books are more!

What are they for?
Go and open the libraries‘ door,
Read a book and up you soar!

Ellen Faye Ann Yabut

26
My Modern Day Heroes
I found a hero
Stronger than anyone I know
A hero that will lead me to my dreams
Even how hard it seems

He or she guides me
Lead me to the way that I use to be
He or she save me from danger
And teaches me great things to make it clearer

A hero that is always there for me

In times of trouble or in times of glee
A hero that can make me feel free
Give me the things that I need to make me happy

A hero that send me to a good school

So that I can grow up not like a fool
My hero is not for rent
Because the hero that I am stating here are my parents

27
―Healthy Diet, Healthy Life‖
By: Ellen Faye Ann Yabut

We all need to be healthy

To protect one‘s gifted body
Maintain a good, well-nurtured
health
Because it is man‘s richest wealth

Eat fruits and vegetables daily

So that from sickness, we are free
One should achieve a proper diet
Make and start everyday right
―Healthy Life, Healthy Diet, ‖
By: Mikhaela Sophia Harder
Keep a nutritional balance
Everyday of life is a chance
Our body requires healthy food
To take care of our body
And we should eat them ‗cause
And to live a life, sickness-free
they‘re good
We must have a healthy diet
We are given a life, the gift
In case of sickness, we‘ll fight it
Gives our hearts and spirit a lift
We should happily feel and see
They may have a not-so-good taste
That life is a blessing and duty
But will free us from the sick phase
Junk foods might taste a bit better
Let‘s start, early as possible
But it will not help us later
Healthy diet, we are capable
Go ahead, and set the table
Junk foods are like your enemy
Healthy living, we can enjoy more!
And healthy foods are your army
But children like the junk foods
more
Then their life will become a bore

Now, better make your diet straight

Or sickness you‘ll catch like a bait
28
You can thank healthy foods later
As they can make your life better
 My School My Wonderful School
By: Alexis Ladine Rosas By: Zaila Amielle Fortes

My school is like a home to me My school is a wonderful sight

It has teachers who taught us good With the trees and the birds taking
things flight
When I‘m there every day,
It seems happy to me It has many places like the canteen
and the gym
My school is beautiful But let us not forget the Cisat Hymn
With nature around, it seems clean
and green So boys and girls raise your voices up
But when it‘s full of dirt, in the sky
Everyone hopes to clean Because the Lord is looking down to
you from up high
My school is with God‘s guidance
With Him all the way, everything My school has many teachers and
seems safe students
Best of all, God gives us wisdom to But still the manongs are having a
understand things in my school helping hand
And teachers say ―Are you ready to Our school has many events
learn things in school? And I hope those events won‘t end

My Amazing School
by: Ma. Princess Sophia Teodones

I have so many friends in school

Who taught me to be kind and nice
The teachers, students, helpers make
the school a better place
On special occasions, it is a wonderful place to be in

The helpers keep the school clean

The teachers help the children learn
29
The students make the school a happy place
And parents give us full support to go here
―My Parents‖
My Modern Day Heroes
By: Summer Doronila
By: Aze Joone Calvo

The greatest people in my life

My modern day heroes
My parents, people I care for;
Starts from our parents
My dad is very cool and nice
This is our beginning
I think he is as cool as ice
It leads to our happy ending

My mom is as sweet as her cake

Mother and father of the family
It is something she likes to bake;
They teach us to be happy
She cares for us very much and
To be guided daily
more
This is what I want when I have
Playing with her, we all explore
my family

My parents are so many things

Heroes and heroines
To me they have a style of bling;
All people are in
They care for me a lot and more
Our modern day heroes
More than they have ever before
Are our fathers and mothers

Christmas
By: Maria Eugenie Lamasan

Christmas
is a time to love and share
So we must show that we care
To everyone, even the people along the streets
Let us give them some Christmas treats

Every 24th night of December

We all go to churches
To celebrate the coming
Of our Lord Jesus Christ, the King

Every December we offer gifts

To the people we love and cherish 30
And wishing that everyday is Christmas
With people loving and caring to all living being
{it is sure}

like her grip that envelopes my pale

hand, vice-like.
i am ensnared.
like the black that pools in her eyes,
telling.
i look away, but not without seeing
the flush that creeps upon her face,
a decadent red that travels to the
tips of her ears.
a quiet smile, from me
to her--
for her.

i shift my gaze once more,

eyes searching

for the answering grin,

amor noc-
the responding stare.
tis
it is there, from her too many nights i
have spent
to him.
gazing upon the
it is there, firmament that
for him. blankets
and bathes me in moonbeam

it is sure. too many nights i have gone

wandering on the pavement
the dew of the night clinging to
my skin

too many nights i have used up

pondering the future
31
brooding over the past
worrying about the present
Blue Moon
by Ellen Faye Ann Yabut I hope once, I can have my light
To help me see what‘s something
Look how beautiful the stars are lit with delight
Above the lonely sky And dazzle, gaze, and to explore
How I wish there‘ll be more jewels Search for the missing art and
That will gaze by and by glamour

I see myself as the Moon I was locked and so is my sheer

Old and tired Afraid never to light again
Finding its courage and strength My heart was occupied with fear
To grow and conquer the wild Freedom? I don‘t know when

I hated the Sun Time passed, yet nothing happened

For it shines in the day My story was torn and saddened
Spreading its happiness and joy I am still the Moon, swell and cold
On near and away Now the tale of the blue moon is
told

Vanishing Magic‖
By: Ellen Faye Ann Yabut

Splendid butterflies spread their wings and fly

With their rainbow colors filled the blue sky
Buzzing of the bees, sweet smell of flowers
Up the sunshine, trees as tall as towers

Smiles of the flowers slowly disappear

Vanishing wonders and creatures, I fear
Nature‘s whisper is calling mankind‘s leap
To help Mother Earth, a magic to keep

32
Travelogues/ Essays
announced to me one early morning. I
was sure she was joking , but when she

All Around showed me tickets and the dates where

we’ll apply for our visas, I felt like
by Divine Grace Llamas fainting. Of course , it didn’t feel real to
me until I stepped foot on the grounds of
Amsterdam, Netherlands. It was truly a
There is so much in this world we are dream come true.
yet to see, from unbelievably surreal na-
ture forms to incredibly detailed man- Europe is exactly like how you see it in
made structures. Google images , or on your phone’s wall-
paper. Except it’s either full of tourists
Have you ever stopped to think that who are mostly Chinese, and it’s freezing
the planet we’re standing on has been cold even during the Spring. There are
here for billions of years? That the waters many factors that make Europe better
and the mountains have unfalteringly than the Philippines , but it too has it’s
stood throughout the history of humani- downfalls. Sure, you might think that hav-
ty? Seeing mankind’s creations, along ing cold weather sounds wonderful, but
with nature’s wonders, is truly a sight to in Europe , it’s almost tolerable but there
see. It’s like history is right in front of us, are days where it’s so cold you wouldn’t
and you can just imagine the events that want to leave your apartment. London
occurred on that place you’re seeing. was probably the coldest city we went to.
That’s what it feels like to travel. You There were a lot of refugees , mostly in
don’t go places to just take pictures and Paris , who have children who smoke just
post them on Instagram, you go there to to keep their selves warm.
appreciate the place, favor it , and feel
the moment. It was like heaven for artists. There
were so many historical yet fascinating
We’ve all wanted to countries like the buildings to sketch , artists were on the
USA , England , France , you name it. It sidewalks near popular structures selling
almost sounds impossible to get there, their original creations, and musicians
seeing that we’re practically from the who just make your heart melt hearing
other side of the world. But hey , when them play. Don’t forget their architectur-
the chance is out in the open, don’t hesi- al history.
tate to grab it ! Even if it’s a trip to the
next town, make the best memories out Take Sagrada Familia for example.
of it. From a far it looks breathtaking
33 , and up
close it’s doubly more astounding once
“We’re going to Europe!” My mother you see those sculptures on the walls or
archways , all together telling a story. The Eiffel Tower. It was majestic , standing
man behind this architectural masterpiece there in all it’s glory.
is Gaudi , who died a tragic death, mistak-
Despite all this, the Philippines and
en for a beggar while La Sagrada Familia
nature itself still has my heart. To you
was still constructing.
that might sound absurd but , build-
ings and city life cannot compare to
the seas, the fine sand, the painted
skies and the setting sun. I love my
country , and I’m glad to be born here.

People in Europe have to go along

way just to see a beach , while it only
takes an hour for us to go to a local
beach. Our life here is more than
enough, because we are all together
and happy. We are happy people.

I’m blessed and thankful for all

these opportunities. I’m writing this ,
in hopes that you may one day you
will see the wonders of the world.
I highly appreciated the idea of finishing
the church on it’s hundredth year of con-
struction.

It was like an architectural playground.

From their houses to their museums, from
their sidewalks to their parks! Everywhere By Francine Denise Palomar
you looked seemed so surreal. Like a living
The first bite is something akin to an
dream.
explosion: the first note-- a burst of
Even though we nearly got robbed by tangy, creamy tahini followed closely by
teenagers (who were Romanians, and not gloriously grilled meat that has been
Parisians) while walking the streets of Par- generously coated with a select variety
is , we still managed to enjoy our day of herbs and spices.
walking from our hotel to The Louvre
Then, the pickled vegetables come
(where Mona Lisa is exhibited) , and to the
through, adding a dimension of flavor
bridges and walking down small alleys that
you’ve never tasted before.34Of course
lead us to a nice restaurant, shortly riding
the stray potato fry (soggy as it may be)
a cab right after going to the one and only
makes its way into the bite as well.
This is the shawarma. No, not the shawar- The pita bread is always toasted just
ma as you know it here with meat that’s right, the meat grilled to juicy perfection
grilled but not-quite-so, and stuffed chock and cut in perfect ratios, the potato fries
full with all the wrong fillings—cabbage, soggy yet flavorful, the pickled vegetables
tomatoes, cucumbers—like a cacophony balanced between too sour and, well, not
of a wrap. Absolutely not. too sour. Not to mention the tahini sauce,
which is always a must—a creamy condi-
This shawarma is the real deal, your
ment made of sesame seeds has no right
classic Middle Eastern flavors all wrapped
to be so good, honestly.
up neatly (or perhaps, not so neatly?)
within pita bread. This shawarma is un- All of these components unite as one
beaten, the holy grail, the only true roll that is overlooked by many, but loved
shawarma. by many more once they’ve been tasted.

Eating authentic shawarma is an un- All expectations could not be more

matched experience in many ways. How wrong, because shawarmas exceed expec-
so? Let me tell you. tations. Well, Arabian shawarmas do. Call
me patronizing, but as a kid who lived and
As soon as you enter the shawarma
grew up in Kuwait, eating shawarmas all
shop, you feel all your senses tingling. The
her life, I dare say that authentic shawar-
first to react would be the olfactory, with
mas are simply impossible to imitate.
the unmistakable aroma of all those herbs
and the beautifully grilled meat spinning It has a unique blend of ingredients
round and round. that look very simple on a cookbook, but
are hard to actually put together in a way
The next to hit is the oh-so-very humid
that makes it perfect.
gust of air against your skin, clinging onto
you in the best way. The sound of pots I apologize sincerely to Turks and
and pans and knives, clashing and chop- Leylam, for you two get an E for Effort, I
ping, in the chefs’ hurry to get food to suppose. However, nothing comes close
tables. Subconsciously, you note that your to the good stuff. To add to the appeal,
mouth has begun to water. even the Avengers love shawarma;
it really is that good.
Nothing can prepare you for that first
bite; not even the most detailed of food
critics’ essays can properly indicate each
and every flavor that registers in a single
bite. It is simply amazing. Wow-ing. Spec- 35
tacular. And it makes you want more—
every. Single. Time.
CISAT, Inc. tops News-casting Tilt
By Ellen Faye Ann Yabut and ―I was happy to win in that prestigious
Ma. Roisa Joy Amonoy event and became an inspiration to
others.‖ she said.
Children‘s Integrated School of Alta
Tierra Inc. hailed budding newscasters The 15 finalists were screened from

in elementary level as Mikhaela Sophia 75 other contestants who joined the

Harder and Eushabelle Maurice Fortes elimination round which was participat-

were declared as the champion in Eng- ed by elementary students both from

lish Category and 1st Runner- up in public and private schools in Iloilo City

Hiligaynon Category respectively in the and the whole province of Iloilo held at

15th ABS-CBN Interschool Newscasting Robinson‘s Place Jaro, Iloilo City, last

Competition held at Robinson‘s Place December 9, 2017.

Iloilo last January 8,2019. Aside from Harder and Fortes an-

Harder and Fortes both sixth grad- other semi-finalist from our school was

ers from our school emerged victorious Francine Denisse Palomar from Grade

among 15 finalists in the said competi- 10 who joined the High School English
tion. category.

According to Harder, ―Practice and The contestants were trained by

piece familiarization brought me to their coaches Miss Christine Joy Paulino

success and my family served as my and Miss Danica Ann Bretaña, as and as

greatest inspiration. I did not expect to Mrs. Cosette C. Justiniani and Marc

become a champion but it gave me Adrian Philippe Justiniani who also pre-

more confidence when I‘m speaking in pared them for the said competition.

front of people. I really value this award The winners received a trophy,
and forever treasure that moment.‖ medal and certificate as well as also

Fortes stressed the importance of had a chance to have television

36 appear-

constant practice and determination as ance in ― Sikat Ka Iloilo‖ one of ABS-

the reason behind her success. CBN‘s TV programs after the contest.
CISAT posts back to back win in ELF
By Ellen Faye Ann Yabut Other run away winners from our
school were Ma. Roisa Joy Amonoy- 2nd
CISAT, Inc. bagged awards both in Place (Poem Writing), Santiago Miguel
journalism and individual presentation Tan Yau- 2nd Place (Essay Writing), Vir-
to add another achievement in field of gil Elijah Noriega- 2nd Place (Feature
journalism‘s champion‘s list in the Re- Writing), Eushabelle Maurice Fortes- 3rd
gional PRISAAP – DepEd English Lan- Place (Interpretative Reading), and Ma-
guage Festival (ELF) held last March 2, rie Giuliana Provido- 3rd Place (Nursery
2018 at Punta Villa Villa Resort and Rhyme Recitation).
Convention Center, Villa Arevalo Iloilo,
This year‘s theme was ―ELF: Provid-
City.
ing Opportunity Towards Better Under-
Ellen Faye Ann Yabut and Mikhaela
standing of the ASEAN Community‖.
Sophia Harder proved their journalistic
abilities by winning 2nd place in Editori-
Science and Technology
al writing and 3rd place in Newswriting
respectively while Kimberly Jave Dorego Stars around the Milky Way:
wowed the audience with her clear de- Cosmic space invaders or vic-
livery and realistic impersonation of
tims of galactic eviction?
Medusa in Character Impersonation
An international team of as-
where she got 2nd place.
tronomers has made a surprising
Together with other representatives discovery about the birthplace of
from other private schools in Iloilo City,
groups of stars located in the halo
they represented the Division of Iloilo
of our Milky Way galaxy.
City after they became champion in
their respective category in the ELF Di- The astronomers now have
vision level held at Iloilo Central Ele- compelling evidence showing that
mentary School last February 3. some of these halo structures ac-

The said competition was partici- tually originate from the Milky
pated by several private schools and Way's disk itself, but were kicked
made possible by the Department of out; this phenomenon 37is called
Education- Division of Iloilo City. galactic eviction.
Source:www.sciencedaily.com
 CISAT pride is Pasiklaban National Champ
By Janielle Faith Torres goals if I work for it, at the same time
inspire others. I thank my coach, my
CISAT, Inc. once again produced anoth-
supportive parents, the whole CISAT
er Pasiklaban champ as a Grade 6 stu-
family, and above all to God because
dent was named the big winner of the
with Him everything had been possible.‖
much-coveted Diwa National Pasiklaban
Yabut‘s coach, Miss Ida Tutor, said,
sa Paaralan Quiz Bee Champion during
―We are happy that every year, Pasikla-
the National Finals held at the SMX Con-
ban gives us the opportunity to walk the
vention Center, Pasay City last January
road of academic prestige by putting us
26-28 , 2018.
in the test of fire. As a coach, I am open
Ellen Faye Ann Yabut bested nine
to be tested for us to know our
other contestants all over the country
strengths and weaknesses as we strive
garnering 655 points in the said con-
to put CISAT Inc. in the map of per-
test, followed by Kent Bernardo, 1st
forming schools at the same time be
Runner–up from Emmanuel Christian
one of the best schools competing in
School representing Cluster 4 with 535
pursuit of excellence. Ellen‘s success is
points and Nico Pabaya, 2nd Runner-Up
also CISAT‘s success.‖
with 525 points from Blessed Sacra-
Yabut won a trophy and a Samsung
ment Catholic School representing Clus-
tablet, a gift cheque for the coach and a
ter 10
multi- media package for the school all
Yabut represented Cluster E com-
sponsored by the Diwa Learning Sys-
posed of Western Visayas, Bicol and Ne-
tems Inc on their 35th year of providing
gros Island Region after winning the
excellence to every Filipino student.
Regional and Division level held last
Yabut is the third Pasiklaban Cham-
September 6, 2017 at SM City Cyber-
pion produced by CISAT, Inc. over the
zone Area.
last seven years.
According to Yabut, ―The whole
Diwa Pasiklaban sa Paaralan is the
Pasiklaban journey was challenging. I
only ICT-integrated traveling quiz show
sacrificed most of my vacant time doing
in the Philippines and has travelled to
reviews every Saturday. But it was all
38
over 300 locations across the country,
worth it. I did not only win but I also
holding competitions in more than
proved to myself that I can achieve
3,000 schools nationwide.
Yabut: Most Outstanding Student in Iloilo
By Mikhaela Sophia Harder and Nominees were selected based on
Eushabelle Maurice Fortes the academic achievements which is 50
percent, (both academic grades and
This year paves way for another out- written exams), co- curricular activities,
standing student in Iloilo coming from 35 percent and personal interview, 15
Children‘s Integrated School of Alta percent. The first 15 nominees were
Tierra Inc as one of the school‘s gradu- selected, then down to ten finalists.
ating elementary student made to the
finals list of Iloilo‘s ten Most Outstand- For Yabut when asked about how
ing Elementary student, a yearly search CISAT helped her achieve her goals, she
sponsored by yearly search is spon- humbly said,― CISAT served as a key to
sored by the Outstanding Students Cir- my success. The school taught me how
cle of Iloilo (OSCI). things should be. It molded me to be a
decent person and God-fearing. CISAT
Ellen Faye Ann Yabut was chosen as bridge the gap between right and
the one of the Most Outstanding Ele- wrong of students. It offered a lot of
mentary School Pupils in Iloilo for AY opportunities for me to enhance my
2017-2018. skills and talents.‖

Yabut, an honor student of our She added that, to her fellow stu-
school made it to the Top Ten Out- dents, ―Keep on aiming for something
standing Elementary Pupils of Iloilo, a greater. Don‘t settle for ordinary if you
prestigious award given to elementary are given all the chances. Maximize
and secondary school students who your potential. Your greatest critic is
made an exemplary performance in the yourself. Don‘t let your fears and
field of academic and non-academic weaknesses overcome you. Work hard,
achievements. believe and trust in God asking always
for his guidance.‖
This annual search aims to give
recognition to students who served as Her winning brought an inspiration
role model, an epitome of hard and and pride to the school, to her parents
honest work, of good moral and aca- and friends.
demic standing, participated in worth- The Awarding Ceremony is scheduled
while undertakings for the success and on March 21, 2018.
honor of his/her school, has distinctive
leadership qualities, and exhibited 39
meritorious service to his peers, school
and community.
 EDITORIAL

EDSA, 32 Years After

Filipinos with yellow ribbons, banners When Marcos took his seat in the
and rosaries in hand met face-to-face Malacañang on the 30th of December,
with soldiers in army tanks. 1965, no one could have possibly pre-
pared the country for what was to come.
People broke out into song, forego-
ing a violent approach in favor of a Unknowingly, the country had let a
more peaceful one, a more meaningful powerful force prowl onto the most
one. powerful position in the government.

The EDSA People Power Revolution The years dragged on, each change
happened 32 years ago, and yet the to the Philippines‘ laws and policies
memory of it is ingrained into all our equivalent to another strike on the wall
minds; young and old Filipinos alike. with a hammer.

It is written in the books and marked These were dark times, indeed, from
on the calendars; it is part of our histo- the declaration of Martial Law to the
ry. However, with each passing year, it unjust treatment of our people, up until
seems as if we sweep this monumental the assassination of the late Sen. Ninoy
event more and more under the rug. Aquino.

Is it really true, what they say? That Many of us will say that it is the as-
the younger generations have thrown sassination that was the spark behind
40
away the weight that these days in his- the flame, the trigger for the revolution.
tory carry?
 However, we can safely say that CISAT, Inc.
the revolution was most likely the
result of a long-brewing hatred to- 35 YEARS OF
wards oppression and the inhumane
things that Filipinos endured during EXCELLENCE
the regime.
By Divine Grace Llamas and
The People Power Revolution was Princess Ann Duyag
not merely the product of emotions
running high, nor was it just the mark A man cannot leave a better
of the fall of the Marcos Regime or legacy than a well-educated family.
the beginning of the Fifth Republic. - Thomas Scott

It symbolized the ardent desire for

democracy, freedom, and truth. The CISAT is a family of its own, educating
revolution is proof of our unity and the children to be righteous and God-
solidarity in times of need. centered as they grow older.

We believe that, from what we‘ve We can attest to this number of years
seen, we can say no to the burning of our stay here. Last December 2017,
questions that ask if we, the youth, we celebrated our 35th founding anni-
are simply throwing the value of EDSA versary.
People Power Revolution under the
It was a very hectic month due to
bus.
many preparations. Everyone is giving
If anything, we harbor a pressing their best …all to create a magical expe-
concern for the future generation be- rience.
cause we know of the hardships that
It was a grand celebration, with sur-
caused it; we know that if it has hap-
real floats lighting up the night show-
pened once, it can surely happen
casing the students from each grade
again.
portraying characters from Disney films.
The fight for true democracy that
The beautiful floats added glamour
is free from graft and corruption still
and attraction with its lights, making it
remains, and we will be here to serve 41
as soldiers for this cause. grandiose and splendid.
 We had mall shows that served as White, Beauty and the Beast, Peter Pan
previews for the grand opening of the and Tinker Bell, Moana, Rapunzel, Cin-
celebration. derella, Queen Elsa, and a lot more.

We also had the Brain Challenge The students danced, sang, and told
testing a student intelligence and abili- us stories through their performances.
ties The Literary Musical Contest held
It was entrancing to see everyone in
every year brings forward the talents of
such stunning dresses, suits, and differ-
CISAT‘s students in which every year we
ent costumes.
witness the showdown and uncovering
of great talents . Almost as though, the characters
that we saw in theaters had come to life.
Let‘s not forget the Family Day where
Each and every one had a big smile on
we happily get together and enjoy the
their face, relieved to know that their
rest of the day.
efforts did not go in vain.
This reminds us that we are one
They knew they gave their best, and
family, one community who share one
that they fulfilled their task, so well with
vision and dream for our school who
their parents.
also had a dream for us.
Our mall show was an event that
Another significant event that was
was very new to us. This was a celebra-
held was the Search for Little Mr. and
tion that brought out our confidence,
Ms. CISAT and Mr. and Ms. CISAT 2017,
showing citizens what we got and what
proving that the students weren‘t only
we could do.
that smart but were blessed with beauty
and charm as well. Selected students were given a
chance to sing, dance, recite their
In all of these events, there‘s no
rhymes, and declaim. Of course, the
doubt that the most memorable and
parade of characters was held here too,
awaited event of that week was the Dis-
the main characters of each story went
ney Festival.
up that stage and stuck to their role
After all, it‘s what we worked the very well.
hardest for. Truly, it was a magical
42Search for
The contestants for the
sight. The characters varied from stories
Mr. and Ms. CISAT and Little Miss and
and films of Disney characters like Snow
Mr. CISAT 2017, came along and were It must‘ve felt very anxious to per-
applauded by their supporters as they form in front of a crowd, but nonethe-
showed us their charming smiles up on less, they committed to their part and
stage. did it remarkably well.

It was an endearing moment, To God be all the glory indeed!

thinking how small of a community we
CISAT‘s students will move forward,
are, yet there we stood in front of so
and will keep living their legacy, as
many people confidently showing them
what they‘ve been doing for 35 years,
how it is in CISAT. It was a juncture we and will be forevermore.
felt very proud of.

A NIGHT OF ROYALTIES
By Princess Ann Duyag and Divine Grace Llamas

As the sun began to set, the night eve- program, everyone who attended that
ryone awaited had commenced. night had a sense of excitement in
them.
The Search for Mr. and Ms. CISAT
and Little Miss and Mr. CISAT 2017 had Who was going to win the crown?
begun. While seeing everyone doing their pro-
duction number, they all gazed at the
It was very evident that the newly
participants, looking at them from
crowned Mr. and Ms. CISAT 2017 Ethan
head to toe as they stood on that
Brent Ronco and Mikhaela Sophia
stage.
Harder and Little Mr. and Ms. CISAT
Cassidy Doronilla and Kevin Edward Of course, they gave their never
Jagonio were filled with utmost joy and ending support to their schoolmates
gratitude for all the support that was and respective classmates, giving them
given to them. It is but another chap- a boost of hope and confidence.
ter in their lives, and it will serve as a
When contestants were asked, they
significant one.
were happy to share their43
experiences.
As they introduced the candidates ―Everything was prepared for the
for the search at the beginning of the Search and all the candidates were get
ting ready. I felt terrified and it was like Towards the end of the program, all
my heart was beating out of my chest, were in awe seeing the jaw-dropping
however after the production number, I appearances of each of the contestants.
slowly overcame it. There was an adren-
It was as if they turned into princes
aline rush to it‖, Mikhaela Sophia Harder
and princesses out of magic! Each of the
said.
contestants walked out of a fairy tale,
Ethan Brent Ronco, Mr. CISAT 2017 bringing our dreams to life. Indeed, they
also shared that, ―It was nerve-wracking are like the royalties in Disney!
moment considering it‘s my first time. I
The night ended with cheers, having
felt nothing but I‘m also worried.‖
the Grade 6 candidates winning both
On the other hand, Cassidy Do- the major awards, and all the minor
ronila, Little Miss CISAT , quipped, ―It awards.
was fun and I was happy‖.
It was no surprise! They were glow-
It was a ravishing experience, wit- ing with confidence and charm.
nessing the talent show. All of them
The same was true with the winners
gave their best, showing the talent that
for the Little Mr. and Miss CISAT.
God has endowed on them.
On their winnings, Ethan Brent Ron-
Majority of the contestants per-
co, Mr. CISAT 2017 said ―I was surprised
formed a song or a dance, acting and
because I‘m not expecting it but I‘m
did a magic show. We witnessed swift
thankful for I had a memorable experi-
and smooth dance moves and voices
ence to tell.‖
that were music to the audience's ears.
It must be nice, hearing that deafening Missy on being Miss CISAT said, ―I

sound of applause up that stage. never thought that I will get all the mi-
nor and major awards and of course the
Lastly was the question and answer
title Miss CISAT. It was a magical night
portion where the contestants revealed
indeed!‖
how perceptive they were in answering
the questions that were given to them. Cassidy being a Grade 2 pupil just
expressed, ‖I was shocked that I won,
Each and every one of them an-
but I enjoyed the night‖. 44
swered the questions with honesty and
hints of intelligence. Congratulations to the Royalties!
 “Once in a Blue Moon”
By: Virgil Elijah E. Noriega

As the stars shone brave and true After all the clapping and moving,
and as sweet elegance and beauty our stomachs were roaring in hunger.
sketched the candid air, we, prince and Luckily, the air perfumed a sweet aro-
princesses were starting to fill up the ma of taste which gave our minds a
empty spaces, thundering the ballroom. hint that dinner is ready.

When the time finally passed It sure was! The tables were now
through the starting line of this spec- wounded with salad, desserts, bread,
tacular event, we excitedly created our drinks and other dishes which brought
exquisite grand entrance. heaven nearer to our mouths.

After the long standing, we fervently We ate properly with delight and
sat in our silver-struck covered chairs pleasure for this was graded (for EPP
as the round table cheerfully gave us a subject) and judged (for the contest).
smile. After all the munching and crunching,
our stomachs were finally satisfied!
We relaxed in peace and comfort
and enjoyed the exceptional night. After some time, the host an-
nounced that we should have some
We danced the night away, sang to
dancing while the judging for the
the moon and back, talked with com-
search for male and female diner of the
fort and confidence with each graceful
night was going on.
step, golden voices and absurd and
heart-touching talks warmed our It was making some of the students
hearts. cantankerous because every moment or
two you have to change partners which
The ―Candle-lighting Ceremony‖,
others didn‘t follow.
the turned –over, and the class will and
testament forced a tear drop or a gig- Because of this, most teachers
gle to burst. joined the dance with the students but
some students were running away or
We enjoyed every second of the
even worse—hiding underneath the
event in one way or another, with hap- 45
tables and chairs which made the dance
piness and excitement.
a bit funny. It actually was! Some were
 even dancing with people of the same believe each one of us is winner in our
gender. While others were not doing it own right. After that, we gracefully
properly and instead danced as if the fabricated our final dance of the night
music was disco or pop. At last, sweat and ended the event with a big boom!
was now dripping all over us so it was
It was now deep in the night, but
finally put to an end.
most of us were not that sleepy be-
Nervousness and excitement was cause of the unforgettable fun that left
now drawn on each of our faces be- new addition to our treasure chest of
cause it was now the Awarding Cere- ineradicable memories. Everybody was
mony for the ―Best Male and Female taking pictures as a group, selfie ,or
Diner of the Night‖. Silence was now with their family and teachers. No
controlled the entire room as the win- words can say it all. It was truly a night
ners were called. First, Top 10 then of wonder and charm! This would be a
Top 5 and finally, the WINNER! ( Jan great addition in our collection of mo-
Francis Magno won the Male Diner; ments. And I am very proud to say that
Mikhaela Sophia Harder won Female this is the kind of night I call ―Once in
Diner). Most of us did not win but I A Blue Moon‖ experience.

CISAT’s Legacy
By: Eushabelle Fortes

Years ago, when I started study- CISAT will forever be my second

ing in CISAT, I learned how to be- home and shall I say that it would
lieve in myself, stand on my own someday be one of my best alma
and not to lean too much on others maters.
all the time.
CISAT taught me how to be a
Being a CISATian is a blessing. A role model to others and to be a
lot of challenges came by, but we humble disciple of the Almighty Fa-
remained as one family. ther. She molded our minds to gain
not just quality education but also
I must say that I learned and en- 46
to develop and unfold student‘s tal-
joyed a lot in this institution.
ents and skills.
 As the school celebrates its 35th managed staff and educated teach-
Founding Year, it continues to train ers with great perspectives.
students and staff to be cultured
Indeed, CISAT is a part of who I
people. I humbly say, that indeed
am now and who I may be in the
our school is the School of the
future. CISAT will surely be one of
Champions.
the reasons behind my ultimate
Not just champions who com- success and its legacy will truly re-
pete with others but champions who main in our hearts forever.
compete with themselves and put
I am proud to be a CISATian and
their best foot forward.
I am glad to say that CISAT contin-
When I entered this institution, I ues to inspire others to reach their
met kind-hearted students, well ultimate goals in life!

A Glimpse of Success
By: Virgil Elijah E. Noriega

Through all the sweat- They have been a part in help-

dropping and tiring journeys and ing me extend my arms to the sky
adventures of this school, the so I can reach my star, my dream,
Children‘s Integrated School Of my ambition!
Alta Tierra Inc., I still managed to
Every member of the school is
burst a smile.
not the only part that makes me
This is because of the ever- smile and laughter but also the
humorous, facetious, and fully- perfectly constructed buildings
packed classmates, teachers and thundering the grounds.
friends who are always here, hav-
The giggling of the kids in the
ing my back, and guiding and sup-
rainbow-colored playground
porting me with all their ear-
warms my heart and the frosty,
breaking roars, yells, and claps
cold classrooms just make me feel
which not only broke my eardrums
like home. 47
but also touched my blushing,
cheek-red heart. Unlike last time where each
room is like a blazing, red-hot,
volcano ready to erupt any second. journey filled with miles and kilo-
The not-to-big library that contains meters of crafting and molding of
a lot of information and knowledge students, to become disciplined,
deep inside its feather-light pages responsible, religious and cultured
makes my mind want to explode people.
with its interesting stories, year-
We all have come this far! We
books, magazines, math books, sci-
began a new journey here, topped
ence books, and hundreds more.
with happiness, fear, anxiety, and
The office is sketched by an eye-
excitement, and we are going to
pleasing arrangement and clean
pass that awaiting finish line that
floors and tables.
lies in our pencils and papers!
Last December, everyone‘s faces
So let us continue this journey
were carved with excitement be-
with a brighter smile, for
cause of the 35th Founding Anniver-
―Happiness can be found even in the
sary and Christmas/New-Year Cele-
darkest times, if one only remem-
bration which was for many stu-
bers to turn on the light. – Albus
dents, the happiest and the most
Dumbledore‖.
glorious, the most awaited part of
the year. The darkness represents our
failure in this ―School of Champions‖
Everyone, even the parents and
and turning on the light represents
teachers, were practicing hard for
our bravery and a sign of our will-
the various contests including the
ingness, a sign that means we
dance and singing competitions,
should never give up!
brain challenge, declamation and
many more heart-beating contests. May the school be always right
on track and always unfold and re-
Every student, parent and teach-
veal the best in each and every one
er honed themselves very hard so as
of us.
to sparkle in an outstanding and jaw
-dropping performance. Remember, if you fall, you
will be the one to choose whether to
As the school celebrated her 35th
stand up or remain down. It is our
anniversary, it was described in a
choice. We show who we really are!
48
49
 SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY
The Children’s Integrated School of Alta Tierra
(CISAT), Inc. believes that Education begins at home
and continues in school to be refined, deepened and
broadened.
VISION
CISAT envisions an educated and cultured community
where there is care and concern for one another, the
environment and all of God’s creation

MISSION
In view of CISAT’s Philosophy and Vision statements,
she envisions herself to bring these into realization by
rising above the ordinary through:
R everence for God
I ntegrity
50
S ocial Responsibility
E xcellence in all Endeavors