News
Meet the Aspiring Leaders: CEIS Malolos SSG Candidates Share Their Visions
By Ray Anne Denise Go
September 22, 2023
Last September 18, 2023, marked the commencement of the campaign season for the academic year 2023-2034, where the AGAPAY party list, Way of Innovating a Successful and Empowered Legacy among the Youth (WISELY) party list, and two independent candidates, one aspiring for the presidency and the other for secretary, stepped into the limelight to vie for the opportunity to be the voice and represent their fellow students. To better know and test the candidates’ willingness to run, The Escolarian, the school’s official publication, conducted an exclusive interview later that day, exploring their platforms and assessing their problem-solving capabilities.
INDEPENDENT CANDIDATES
BAUTO, SEBASTIAN - President
Sebastian Bauto, a student from HUMSS 12-A, is one of the three and is the only independent candidate among the candidates vying for the presidency in this year’s election. His leadership style, according to him, is democratic, emphasizing ethics and the importance of his principles as a core value. When asked about what he would do in a situation that involved unethical behaviors of fellow student government members, he asserted that he would prioritize demanding service first, and that unethical behaviors must warrant impeachment if proven.
Bauto’s platform embodies the idea of representation, not only for minorities but also for nurturing all students and celebrating the diverse population of the school. In a succinct one-minute statement, he outlined his vision for a “MALAYA, MATALINO, AT MATALAS” (free, intelligent, sharp) student body that actively participates in advocating for the safety and freedom of his fellow students. His main projects, the “AKO RIN PROJECT” and “SEX EDUCATED KA” are rooted in the concept of providing a safe space for addressing traumas and difficult experiences. He made it clear that these projects are under his platform, and shall not be struck out.
SILLANO, REIN SHANDRIS - Assistant Secretary
Sillano’s leadership style, according to her, embodies open-mindedness. One of her primary goals is to foster an environment where all Escolarians feel safe and heard. Sillano’s platform, she stressed, will initiate its work by engaging with campus missionaries. Importantly, she emphasized that this approach won't focus on any specific religion but instead will embrace the diversity of beliefs among students.
When asked about her strategy for ensuring inclusivity beyond trust, she explained her intention to review the program with campus missionaries. This collaborative effort will address how to handle diverse students, establish boundaries, and determine the necessary steps to foster inclusivity within the SSG.
AGAPAY PARTYLIST
SAN MIGUEL, MARIEL ACE - President
San Miguel, the party list’s president and current ABM strand representative, has introduced several projects and resolutions to bolster student welfare and campus vibrancy. These include "MAKULAY NA PAMANTASAN," aimed at safeguarding students from harassment; "LAWIG, ESCOLARINO," an Income Generating Project to fund various events and student necessities; "KISLAP 2024," a grand celebration encompassing sports, academics, culture, and music; and "KAAGAPAY SA TAGUMPAY," ensuring students perceive the value of their SSC Fee by extending support to those in need.
During the interview, when asked what he would do with the possibility of modifying event dates that could impact academic schedules, he firmly said that events could be rescheduled while emphasizing that contingency plans are in place, drawing from his past experience. Following this, he was asked a situational question: Would you rather face criticism from students for taking a strong stand on a controversial issue within the school, or receive criticism from teachers and administrators for advocating for the sake of students? He stated that he thinks that he would stay neutral, and be professional when handling such situations.
MABANTA, AIAN CLARENCE ENRICO - First Vice President
Mabanta, the first vice-presidential candidate of the party list, emphasized his inclusive leadership style. As the incumbent Assistant Secretary of the previous Supreme Student Government, he expressed overall satisfaction with his prior leadership but acknowledged the need for continuous improvement. His student-centric platforms include #UpdatedEscolarYarn, focusing on effective campus-wide information dissemination through bulletin boards and social media. He also proposes the "Student Leaders Awards" to recognize student leaders and aims to empower students to voice their concerns and rights through the "Karapatan Mo, I-Voice Out Mo!" platform.
TUD, LYRA FRANCHESCA - Second Vice President
Tud, the incumbent Assistant Public Information Officer and currently a candidate for Second Vice President, introduces three core platforms. Firstly, she plans to improve students' leadership and communication skills through workshops. Secondly, her "Magningning" platform aims to highlight student talents in areas like music, art, and literature. Lastly, Tud advocates for cleanliness and sustainability in the school environment with initiatives such as recycling programs, tree-planting, and awareness campaigns.
SANTOS, TRIANA RAFAELLE - Secretary
Secretary candidate Santos introduces two notable platforms. "CHIKA-MINUTE" promises to host seminars taught by experienced individuals on creating effective meeting minutes, enhancing students' note-taking skills and summarization abilities. The "BookPain No More!" platform advocates for the installation of school cubby holes in every high school classroom, primarily benefiting commuter students but offering convenience to all. Santos aims to improve organizational aspects of students' lives while facilitating efficient communication.
BARTOLOME, JASMINE JANE - Treasurer
Bartolome, running for treasurer, presents two key platforms. "TransparenSEE" prioritizes financial transparency and accountability, providing easy access to weekly financial reports detailing income sources, expenditures, and fund allocation via the SSG's Facebook page. The "STAND STRAND PROJECT" is a week-long initiative tailored to senior high school students, offering interactive seminars and workshops specific to each strand, enhancing their skills and knowledge through hands-on experiments, job interview workshops, creative writing sessions, and more.
MANALAYSAY, CHANEL KURT - Assistant Treasurer
Manalaysay, vying for the position of Assistant Treasurer, highlights two significant platforms. "Safety First" prioritizes student safety by placing medical kits in classrooms to ensure preparedness for unforeseen accidents. "Wow, Clubs!" focuses on providing various forms of entertainment and relaxation for students throughout the week.
LUCAS, MEG FRANCIS - Auditor
Lucas, running for the position of Auditor, and is the incumbent Assistant Auditor, was asked to rate her leadership last year, into which she answered that she is satisfied. Lucas presents two significant platforms. "Tagpuan" aims to simplify the process of finding lost items within the school community by allowing students to report missing items to the SSG, and the SSG will recognize those who return lost items on their Facebook page as a gesture of gratitude. "M.E.G. (Magbigay sa Estudyante ng Gamit)" seeks to provide assistance to students from public schools, offering support to those in greater need.
BACOLOD, GABRIELLE STEPHANIE - Assistant Auditor
Gabrielle Stephanie Bacolod, running for Assistant Auditor, presents two impactful platforms. "Youth Elevate" proposes a student hotline using Discord, moderated by the SSG and Peer Facilitators, offering Escolarians a platform to bond and seek peer support from the comfort of their homes. Meanwhile, "Escolarians Kabahagi Tayo" plans an outreach program in December, collecting donations from students to benefit the Home of the Aged and orphanages.
CRUZ, WENDELL JOHNRAY - Public Information Officer
Cruz, vying for the position of Public Information Officer, presents three significant platforms. "Be there for you!" focuses on giving Escolarians a voice to raise awareness and seek support for their concerns through quarterly surveys and Google forms. "League of Class Mayors and PIOs" aims to improve information dissemination by forwarding announcements and updates to respected classroom group chats. Lastly, "PisoParaSaNangangailangan" encourages voluntary donations every Friday of each month to aid those in need, with a special initiative planned for December 22 and 23, to provide essentials for Christmas Eve.
GONZALES, JAIZEN - Assistant Public Information Officer
Gonzales, running for the position of Assistant Public Information Officer, introduces a student-centered platform. The "Student-Friendly Social Media Account" aims to provide a safe space for students to voice their concerns, which will then be addressed and delivered to the relevant parties. In response to the question asked on how she will maintain the data privacy of those who will post, she ensured, “students will remain anonymous.” Additionally, the platform will engage students through polls, surveys, and interactive posts while ensuring the security and privacy of their data. According to her, one unique feature of this platform will involve the use of inclusive languages in announcements to accommodate students who may have difficulty understanding either English or Tagalog.
LONGCOP, ALFRED - Peace Officer
Longcop, aspiring for the role of Peace Officer, introduces the "Reach Me Out" platform. This initiative aims to support all students, regardless of gender, in addressing their problems and academic challenges. It serves as a bridge connecting students with the guidance office, providing a safe space for seeking assistance and support. When asked on what specific aim this platform has and what it has on edge compared to other platforms related to gender, he stated, “This platform kasi.. It is more on guidance, not awareness.”
LOPEZ, CRISHA NICOLE - Assistant Peace Officer
In a recent interview with student council candidate Lopez, she discussed her role as Assistant Peace Officer and her community service initiatives, including outreach programs, clean-up drives, and school supply collections. Lopez also emphasized her commitment to student mental health through the "Student Minds Matter" program, which includes workshops and support groups. Her candidacy represents a dedication to community service and student well-being.
SARMIENTO, PIA ALESSANDRA - STEM Representative
In a recent interview with Sarmiento, a candidate for STEM Representative in the student council, she unveiled her platform initiatives. Under "Libro For EveryJuan," she encourages book donations during National Book Week (November 20-24, 2023) to benefit students with limited access to reading materials. Sarmiento's "Basta Ciencia, Kasama!" proposes a rental system for STEM students' lab gowns and tools, addressing equipment shortages while accounting for potential damages. When questioned on why she chose lab gowns, she said, “Mas madali kasi magpahiram ng lab gowns, and yung mga equipment, provided naman na.” Additionally, she plans a STEM Day in January, featuring activities, games, exhibits, and prizes, promoting STEM engagement within the community.
DIZON, MIGUEL JOACHIM - Grade 10 Representative
Dizon, running for Grade 10 Representative, focuses on two key platform initiatives. "Para sa Pangarap (The Career Talk)" aims to educate Grade 10 students about the various Senior High School strands they can pursue, in which he clarified that won’t limit students to their career preferences, rather ready them for their future, while "Level Up at Wow Malinis" strives to improve the cleanliness and overall condition of school facilities.
SEKIGUCHI, RIA BLESSIE - Grade 9 Representative
Grade 9 Representative candidate Sekiguchi presents two primary platform initiatives. "USS Guide (Ultimate Survival Skills)" focuses on teaching essential life skills to students through social media posts, seminars, and posters. Meanwhile, "Y.E.A.H (Yearn to Excel and Achieve High grades)" aims to enhance academic performance and boost students' confidence by facilitating study groups and encouraging interaction among peers.
MAGARU, NICOLE MARGARETTE - Grade 8 Representative
Magaru, candidate for Grade 8 Representative, presents two impactful platform initiatives. "Bukang Liwayway" aims to promote creative learning methods that cater to individual preferences, fostering open-mindedness and innovative problem-solving skills. "Aruga Helpline" provides a safe space for students to address their problems and seek assistance, helping to prevent potential safety issues and improve school policies through data analysis.
DELA CRUZ, BRIANNA KATHRYN - Grade 7 Representative
Grade 7 Representative candidate Dela Cruz presents three essential platform initiatives. "Sparks of Suggestions (Suggestion Box)" facilitates open communication, allowing students to share opinions and suggestions anonymously. "StudyHub Pro (Homework Center)" provides advanced reading materials and tutoring assistance for students facing academic challenges. "Talentinia" serves as a platform for students to confidently showcase their talents, fostering self-esteem and celebrating creativity within the school community.
As a concluding question, they were asked, “What sets you apart from the other partylist?” into which they answered:
“May paninindigan kami.”
“Manalo, or matalo, magseserbisyo kami.”
“May Former SSC members kami, who knows the gaps to fill.”
“We are more experienced.”
WISELY PARTYLIST
DEL ROSARIO, JILLIANA JOSH - President
Del Rosario's campaign as President centers on three vital platforms. "You Belong With Me (WISELY VERSION)" aims to create clubs for students who feel left out in existing ones, fostering inclusivity. "Self Care is Health Care" emphasizes mental health interventions like rest to address student well-being. The "E(scolarian) - Bazaar" promotes small student businesses while being criteria-based to ensure fairness. In response to the questions about how the E(Scolarian) - Bazaar would manage limited slots for businesses to sell their products, she clarified, “The bazaar will be criteria-based, and yung mga under-aged pa na students diba hindi pa magiging madali sa kanila para makapag-open, and syempre, the products must be approved din.”
Following this, she was also asked a situational question regarding event schedules being modified, and what measures she would do to ensure no other aspects will be affected. She suggested that it could be moved some other time, or if impossible, would just push through with online competitions.
DE GUZMAN, VEA ANGELA - First Vice President
WISELY’s First Vice Presidential Candidate, De Guzman, aims for a striving leadership that champions prioritizing students. Through her projects, “Leadership Training Seminar,” “E-Helping Hand” and “Career Orientation Day”, she aims to enhance the skills and knowledge of students at CEIS, primarily focusing on identifying suitable paths, honing their social responsibility as individuals, and leadership development. To test her ethical skills and principles, she was then asked what she would do if a fellow candidate of hers would commit an unethical behavior or misuse their position for a personal gain. She then answered, “Listen. Then do’n, make an action.”
FLORES, ANDREA PAULANE - Second Vice President
When asked to describe her platform in one minute, Flores, from WISELY partylist, discussed hers as a safe and open environment for students and teachers to reach out for concerns, where there will be a box or board accessible for students and teachers where they have the freedom of expressing themselves. Her platforms, “Tinig Mo, Papakinggan Ko!” and “Lend a Hand” both aim to foster communication and support among Escolarians, involving students using messages or notes to communicate their concerns within the school community. Regarding these projects, she was asked on how she will make sure of the messages’ anonymity if ever sent which she explained on how certain specific instructions will then be dedicated and implemented, and concerns are rest-assured to be inspected by the officers in charge.
DE LEON, CYRIL - Secretary
De Leon, a candidate running for the Secretary position in this year's election, emphasizes transparency and communication through "Right (Write) and Report" and "Paving the Way for Organized Excellence - The Record-Keeping Revolution." She reassures that no student concerns will be left unattended. When asked about the efficacy of collaborating with class secretaries and preventing concerns from being overlooked or dismissed by school administrators, she stressed that as much as she can, she will prioritize what needs to be prioritized first and foremost, and will ensure that no concerns are left unattended.
ROMERO, HAELA CLARISSE - Assistant Secretary
Under her proposed platforms “Heads-up, Escolarians” and “Everyone has a spot”, Romero, the Assistant Secretary candidate from WISELY party list, presents engaging and inclusive initiatives for the campus. The "Heads-up, Escolarians!" platform introduces a bulletin board system to disseminate crucial information, event updates, and essential dates, while in the "Everyone has a spot" platform, Romero envisions an environment where students are free to create and register their own clubs, fostering self-expression, creativity, and skill development.
She also then clarified to make sure to put the information and announcements to where students notice.
JOSON, ALECKXIA SHAYNE - Treasurer
Aleckxia Shayne Joson, a candidate running for the Treasurer position, has outlined a clear plan for financial management and sports equipment allocation if elected. Under her platform titled "Track and Report," Joson underscores the importance of transparency and responsible procedures in handling finances within the student government, so students will be aware where the funds are being allocated.
Joson acknowledges the need for Sports Supplies, especially for Malolos City Private Schools Association (MACIPRISA). She plans to raise funds through events and bazaars organized by the student body to acquire these supplies. When asked on how fair distribution will be ensured, Joson stated that she will work with sports leaders, coordinators, and students to prioritize equipment purchases, ensuring all students can access what they need for sports activities.
DE LEON, JASMIN CAMILLE - Assistant Treasurer
De Leon, running for Assistant Treasurer, prioritizes financial transparency through "Assurance ba Kamo?" and mental health awareness through "Speak Now (Escolarian’s Version)." She outlines her collaboration plan with The Escolarian for financial reporting and a separate platform if necessary.
When asked on why she chose The Escolarian to collaborate with her in reporting financial reports, she stated, “I believe kasi mas updated, factual, may proofreading din, and mas reliable.” When questioned if the organization won’t agree to collaborate, she said that she would resort to making a separate page that is reliable to the students.
FLORES, ALYANA - Auditor
Flores, running for Auditor, introduces the platform "Your Passion, Your Fortune," emphasizing collaborative fundraising events with student entrepreneurs. This initiative aims to promote student-run businesses during school events like Teacher's Day, showcasing products such as pastries, printing services, stickers, and personalized gift boxes. Flores' plan encourages students to support local entrepreneurship, allowing them to profit, improve their skills, and contribute to the school community. A portion of the proceeds will also bolster SSG funds, supporting student initiatives.
When asked on what measures she would do to ensure fairness and avoid favoring those students who already established their businesses, she explained that before the event, she will make sure to lay-out specific factors before partnering and won’t limit the said project to existing businesses.
JULIAN, ALTHEA KHYM NIECOLE - Assistant Public Informations Officer
Julian, Assistant Public Information Officer candidate, presents two key platforms. "E-Helping Hand," in collaboration with WISELY's 1st VP, Vea De Guzman, places donation boxes on each CEIS floor for students to contribute supplies and food for charity. "Inform and Reform" creates an exclusive Facebook page for CEIS Malolos students to share announcements, SSC initiatives, and concerns, fostering an active community while managing potential negative feedback.
Following this, she was then asked how the E-Helping Hand could ensure that students who can’t donate won’t be stigmatized or excluded. In which she answered, “I will ensure na no stigma, and will ensure that it is not required.”
SANTOS, LYNDON BRENT - Assistant Peace Officer
Santos, running for Assistant Peace Officer, introduces the platform "Huddle Up and Listen Up!" This initiative focuses on providing support and mediation for students facing problems or conflicts. Santos aims to create an open environment where students can discuss their issues, offering an alternative to speaking with guidance counselors. Additionally, a dedicated page/hotline will be established for students to schedule appointments, whether in-person or virtual, ensuring accessibility to support services.
SALAMAT, CARL NICHOLAS - HUMSS Representative
Salamat, HUMSS Representative candidate, introduces three key platforms. "ASK-OLARIANS" encourages open discussions on contemporary issues, while "ES-CON" focuses on celebrating students' interests, and "MR. RIGHT TO VOTE MOVEMENT" aims to educate students about democracy and elections. These platforms aim to engage students, although challenges such as biased responses and maintaining interest may arise.
PAGDANGANAN, ANNTCOVE - Grade 10 Representative
Grade 10 Representative candidate Pagdanganan introduces "WHAT DO YOU WANT?" to help students determine future careers, enhance grade 10 student unity, and promote self-discovery. Activities include "LET's TALK" for discussing interests, an "EXPLORE YOURSELF" journal, "MY OWN MAP" for setting life goals, and "THEIR POV’s ABOUT ME" to highlight classmates' strengths. Pagdanganan also suggests "PAUSE THEN PLAY" for classroom bonding with snack time, music, and open forums, despite potential participation and time management challenges.
SABINIANO, AKIO CALEB - Grade 7 Representative
Grade 7 Representative candidate Sabiniano suggests establishing a Sports Club to cater to students' sports interests and promote fitness. He also proposes introducing lockers for high school students to alleviate the health risks associated with heavy backpacks. These initiatives aim to enhance students' well-being and offer diverse extracurricular opportunities.
When asked what sets them apart from the other party, they firmly answered:
“May realistic goals kami, and simple siya that can give a big impact.”
“Ang platforms namin, achievable.”
“Our party is filled with skilled leaders that will encourage students.”
“We know how to address the needs even though bago kami.”
“New faces makes us unique, and naging under na kami ng leaders and alam na namin what areas must be improved.”
AGAPAY
WISELY
INDEPENDENT