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Plaid Ideas, Antipolo (2025)

11/05/2025

The Future of a Vote: Midterm Elections

In a time where narratives can be bought and truth is under siege, casting a vote might be the most radical thing a person can do.

On May 12, 2025, Filipinos will once again head to the polls for the general elections, a high-stakes vote that will shape the nation’s political landscape halfway through President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. 's term. All 317 seats in the House of Representatives and 12 of the 24 Senate seats are up for grabs, forming the 20th Congress of the Philippines. At the same time, voters will elect new local officials in every province, city, and municipality, deciding who will lead their communities in the years to come.
At first glance, midterm elections might seem like a pause between presidential races, less intense, less exciting. But this vote is anything but minor. It’s a national report card on the current administration. It decides which lawmakers will write and pass the laws that govern our daily lives, and whether they will serve the public or protect powerful interests. It is also a chance to either renew public trust in democratic institutions or watch them erode under the weight of disinformation, political dynasties, and apathy. The question is not just who will win, but what kind of voters we choose to be.

With millions of first-time and young voters participating in 2025, the youth have the power to swing outcomes. If they vote, and if they vote wisely. But power means responsibility. In recent years, people have seen how history can be rewritten with well-funded social media campaigns, how reputations can be cleaned with viral videos, and how truth can be buried under a flood of algorithmic propaganda. These are not isolated tactics. They are calculated strategies used by those desperate to cling to power, often with the help of influencers, PR agencies, and troll armies. Against this, the youth must stand not just as voters, but as critical thinkers, informed citizens, and watchdogs of democracy. Everyone’s vote matters. But so does the way they talk, share, research, and question.
Being a responsible voter in 2025 means looking beyond slogans, jingles, and surface-level branding. It means asking: Who benefits from this candidate’s win? What are they not saying? Are they running to serve—or to survive politically? Have they faced allegations of corruption, and if so, how were they addressed? Do they have a record of genuine public service, or just name recognition? And perhaps most importantly: Are they trying to buy a person’s vote or earn their trust? A good voter doesn’t just show up on election day. A good voter studies the candidates, engages in honest conversations, and rejects manipulation. Whether it comes from a politician, a family member, or a TikTok feed.

The 2025 elections are not just about filling seats. They are a reflection of how much people have learned, and how much they’re willing to fight for the kind of country everyone deserves. A person doesn't need to be a politician to shape the future. Sometimes, the most important thing they can do is to vote with their eyes open, their mind sharp, and their values intact. It’s easy to feel small in a system that often feels rigged. But remember this: when truth is threatened, choosing to care is already an act of resistance.

09/05/2025

Konnichiwa!: A Special Valentine’s Day with Assumption Antipolo and Sakuragaoka High School

For Assumption Antipolo, February 14, 2025, was more than just Valentine’s Day; it was a celebration of friendship, culture, and traditions. Welcoming students from different cultures has long been part of the legacy of Assumption Antipolo, interrupted only by the pandemic. This year saw the rekindling of the tradition that had so far been dormant for the past couple of years, as students from Sakuragaoka High School joined in for a day of exchange and shared experience.

The day began with a warm welcome at the Students’ Assembly, where two Sakuragaoka students introduced their school and community. Afterward, visiting students and their hosts enjoyed a traditional Filipino breakfast at the kubo: corned beef, eggs, rice, and juice. It was a delicious way to start the day.

After breakfast, six student ushers, who were part of the Japan Study Tour in November 2024, conducted a campus tour for the guests. This experience gave the Sakuragaoka students a feel for the ambience of the school and some of its unique traditions. Next came a fun-filled session in the Mini-Theater with the 12-3 HUMSS class. Here, they explored Design Thinking: a problem-solving concept that focused on creativity and collaboration. The activity fostered deeper connections between the two schools and its students, showing that learning goes beyond textbooks.

The cultural exchange then spilled into the kitchen, where students participated in a hands-on cooking class. Guided by local instructors, they made traditional Filipino sweets: palitaw and turon. The air was filled with laughter as students bonded over sticky rice and caramelized bananas.

In the afternoon, Sakuragaoka students joined the various club activities, fully engaging the diverse Assumption community. From dance and frisbee to Salinka Musika and softball, diverse activities showcased the whole spectrum of talents and interests in the school, all of which exuded energy with a welcoming spirit.

A sure sign of the day's success was the laughter shared as they ended the day. More than a cultural experience, this was a day filled with new friendships and adventures. Consolidating the bonds between Assumption Antipolo and Sakuragaoka High School was another goal of the gathering, which kept alive the treasured tradition of welcoming students from around the world. With memories in the making and connections all but solidified, this was one Valentine’s Day to remember.

Article by Bren Gongora
Photos by Alexie Galvez, Bren Gongora, Zel Razon, & Zane Marcos

09/05/2025

Petals of Liara’s Enchanted Garden: Grade 11 Benefit Dinner

Last February 15, 2025, the Grade 11 students of Assumption Antipolo danced the night away at the annual Benefit Dinner held at the Mission Hills Clubhouse in Antipolo City. In light of the festivities, students, teachers, and the administration dressed in their best evening outfits This event took a major leap of sharing the opportunities garnered by fundraising events such as the Twenty Stix booth, family day photobooth, flower bouquet booth, and raffle tickets sponsored by Assumption Antipolo. It was dedicated to its beneficiary, Child Hope Philippines Organization. Through months of extensive preparation, all proceeds were donated to support Child Hope Philippines’ mission of empowering the Filipino youth.

Welcomed by the volunteer usherettes from various levels of the high school body, guests were then directed to their designated seats. The night officially began with the hosting of Beya Cailina and Astrid Cortes, Grade 12 students of Assumption Antipolo, followed by an opening prayer led by Gabrielle Ecijan, the Grade 11 batch representative. The program flowed smoothly with a series of interactive activities and games such as Petal Facts (a get-to-know-you activity), Cryptogram, and Forget me Knot, a bracelet activity featuring various beads that represented distinct meanings. Organized by the Benefit Dinner’s core and sub members, these activities aimed to cultivate meaningful relationships and experiences between students and their partners for the night.

The night’s relevance was highlighted through a segment presented by a representative of Child Hope Philippines, showcasing the importance of participating in the event and advocating for the youth’s voice and rights.

A special intermission was performed by Bella De Leon, Batch 2024’s former representative from their Grade 12 days, during which she presented five significant song covers, including her original composition, as students danced to the tunes of nostalgic music.

Proceeding to the next portion of the event, the nomination and voting forms for the event awardees were opened by the Benefit Dinner core members and usherettes for students and guests to submit their votes. After this segment, the winners of each award were announced by the hosts. Ms. Gabrielle Ecijan and her partner, Mr. Markus De Los Santos, were crowned as the Magnolia and Myron (Prom King and Queen) awardees of the night. Another award called Briar and Anthos (Prom Prince and Princess) went to Ms. Franchezka Ibasco and Mr. Raine Andrew Ojeda. Spirea, an award highlighting a partnered couple’s natural chemistry, was bestowed upon Ms. Yna Garrote and Mr. Kimi Alvarez. And lastly, the Phaedra award (the table with most engagements, interactions, and chemistry) was awarded to guests belonging to table number four.

The joyous celebrations shared by students, teachers, and administrations extended beyond the hours of the evening, encompassing the processes that made the event possible. It stands as a pillar of hope, guiding students to engage in empowering advocacies and share the opportunities offered to them as students of transformative education. As we restore social democracy alongside our beloved friends and loved ones, the night marks as a stepping stone toward fostering a better tomorrow.

Article by Calista Tumulak
Photos by Bren Gongora & Alexie Galvez

06/05/2025

Celebrate 50 Years of Grace, Grit, and Greatness! 🌟

Tickets are now officially up for pre-selling for Assumption’s Got Talent 3.0 — a dazzling celebration of AA@50: Golden and Timeless, the golden jubilee of Assumption Antipolo! 🎫

‼️For ONLINE pre-orders, click this link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSegtworlg3yEIglYdlIy6uMdNKozY90VKyrYrwKY8K7lYy89w/viewform?usp=header

‼️Onsite purchase is also available. Details are posted in your respective Level Teams on MS Teams.

Be part of a once-in-a-generation event where passion meets performance, and where our Assumption spirit shines brighter than ever. 🌠 From breathtaking talents to unforgettable stories, witness how five decades of excellence, creativity, and faith-driven artistry take center stage. ✨

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this historic celebration! Secure your seats early — because greatness doesn’t wait. 😉

Let’s make memories that are truly golden and timeless. AGT 3.0 is not just a show. It’s a golden moment in the making. 💛

Let the countdown to timeless talent begin! See you there!✨

16/03/2025

Assumption Antipolo Bows Out as WNCAA Host, Passes Flag to Assumption College San Lorenzo

In a symbolic gesture of unity and continuity, Assumption Antipolo officially turned over its hosting duties for the 56th season of the Women's National Collegiate Athletic Association (WNCAA) to Assumption College San Lorenzo during the league’s closing ceremonies.

Ms. Grace Magtaas, School Director of Assumption Antipolo, formally handed over the WNCAA flag to representatives of Assumption College San Lorenzo, signifying the transition of responsibilities for the next season.

The ceremonial turnover, a time-honored tradition in the league, marks the conclusion of Assumption Antipolo’s stewardship and the beginning of a new chapter under its sister school's leadership.

The WNCAA, the country’s premier all-female collegiate sports league, continues its mission of fostering athletic excellence and sportsmanship among young women.

With Assumption College San Lorenzo at the helm, the league looks forward to another season of competitive play and camaraderie among member schools.

16/03/2025

MANILA, Philippines—The 55th season of the Women’s National Collegiate Athletic Association (WNCAA) concluded at the Rizal Memorial Stadium, highlighting the strength and determination of female athletes across the midget, junior, and senior divisions.

Assumption Antipolo School Director Ms. Grace Magtaas delivered the closing message, emphasizing the league’s role in empowering young women through sports—an especially meaningful message as March marks International Women’s Month.

The ceremony ended with the official turnover of hosting duties to Assumption College San Lorenzo, signaling the start of a new season dedicated to fostering excellence and leadership in women’s athletics.

16/03/2025

JUST IN: Under the bright lights of the Rizal Memorial Stadium, the AA Amazons cheerleading team, delivered a well-rehearsed full out routine during the cheerleading competition at the closing ceremony of the 55th WNCAA season, March 16.

Every move was performed with precision and discipline as the squad showcased their dedication to teamwork and their craft. From clean motions to solid stunts, the Amazons displayed the results of countless hours of practice, putting their skills and spirit on full display.

Their synchronized choreography and steady ex*****on were a testament to their commitment and growth as young athletes. The support from the audience was palpable, with cheers and encouragement resonating throughout the stadium as the squad completed each segment of their routine. It was a proud moment for the Amazons, demonstrating the heart and perseverance that high school cheerleading represents.

This performance was not only a highlight of the event but also a reflection of the Amazons’ hard work and camaraderie, embodying the true essence of sportsmanship and school pride.

16/03/2025

JUST NOW: AA Amazons Gear Up for WNCAA Cheerleading Finale

March 16—The AA Amazons are in the spotlight as they warm up with their high-energy full-out routine for the cheerleading competition during the closing ceremony of the 55th season of the Women’s National Collegiate Athletic Association (WNCAA) at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

The squad, known for their precision and high-level stunts, is executing flawless transitions, sharp motions, and synchronized tumbling passes in their practice run, leaving fans anticipating a performance packed with stunning pyramids and high-flying basket tosses.

All eyes are on the Amazons as they prepare to hit the mat with their signature blend of power and grace, ready to bring the house down.

Stay tuned for their final showdown!

16/03/2025

Happening Now: The AA Hype Kids are warming up for their big performance in the 55th season of the WNCAA cheerleading competition at Rizal Memorial Stadium. Their routine promises thrilling stunts, smooth moves, and plenty of swag to wow the crowd.

14/03/2025

Taguyod, Buhay na Pag-Asa: The official opening of Grade 10’s Monthly Medical Consultation Program

On February 1st, 2025, the official opening of Grade 10’s Monthly Medical Consultation Program, Taguyod, was held at the CSS Garden in Assumption Antipolo (serving as a temporary venue while the Saint Marie Eugenie or SME Kiosk undergoes renovation). Taguyod: Monthly Medical Consultation, or Taguyod: MMC for short, is a program typically held on the last Saturday of each month, giving nearby Sitio communities the opportunity to receive free and accessible health and dental care. However, this year’s opening session was moved to February 1st instead of January 25th because the school fair was scheduled on the same day. For this school year, Batch 2027 is leading the medical mission, giving the students an opportunity to learn and grow as individuals as they handle the preparations and ex*****ons of the program.

The soft opening of the MMC was originally set for October 26, 2024, but had to be postponed to November 25, 2024, due to Typhoon Kristine. Despite the delay, this trial run gave Grade 10 students the chance to experience the program firsthand and identify areas for improvement before the official launch of Taguyod. This was especially helpful for committees handling logistics and program flow on the day itself. Two months prior , on September 28, 2024, the students also had an observation period where they learned from the previous batch in charge of the MMC, Batch 2025, gaining valuable insights into how the program operates and what could be refined.

The Batch 2027’s Grade 10 students were separated into 5 committees for each section. Section 1 is in charge of the Records and Registration, they manage things from patient information to pharmacy supplies. Section 2’s committee is Sponsorship and Finance, they handle all financial aspects, including securing donations and sponsorships. Meanwhile Section 3 handles the Promotions and Marketing, they are responsible for social media content before and after the event, raising awareness and engagement for Taguyod. Section 4 oversees the Human Resources, they coordinate the recruitment and scheduling of volunteer doctors, nurses, and students.

Additionally, they also manage the daycare service, where student volunteers care for children of the Sitio patients while their parents attend consultations. Lastly, Section 5 is in charge of Logistics and Program, they oversee venue preparation and manage the event’s program flow, ensuring everything runs smoothly and all resources are in place.

The MMC held on February 1 was made possible by generous sponsors and donors. Notable sponsors included Krispy Kreme and the Grade 10's Entrepreneurship Day event, Timeless Tastes. Several student families also contributed as donors, further supporting the mission's success. It was not just monetary donations: some families and students also donated office materials, toys for the daycare, food, and other miscellaneous items. The medical team consisted of three skilled medical practitioners and two registered nurses, who were essential in delivering quality care to the patients throughout the event.

The Taguyod: Monthly Medical Consultation program also served as the Quarterly Assessment for Grade 10 students in their AKK subject, so everyone was expected to be actively involved in both the planning and ex*****on. For many Grade 10 students, it was a first-time experience that proved to be both challenging and rewarding. The students and student volunteers shared that the MMC not only taught them how to handle stress but also how to engage with individuals outside of their usual community, giving them a deeper understanding of the real-world impact of their efforts. Students shared that being able to help so many people, even in small ways, made all the hard work worth it. They mentioned how the experience taught them invaluable lessons in patience, organization, and time management. The medical mission also helped the students learn the hard work it takes to do all things that medical practitioners do on a daily basis.

In the end, Taguyod is more than just a school event. It is a transformative experience that brings Grade 10 students closer to their community and gives them the opportunity to serve others in meaningful ways. The hard work, dedication, and teamwork required to make the event a success not only helps students develop crucial skills such as patience, time management, and organization, but it also deepens their sense of purpose and desire to make a positive impact.

The mission not only benefited the patients who received much-needed healthcare, but it also inspired the students to continue giving back to the community. Many walked away from the experience with a renewed sense of gratitude and the conviction that small acts of service can have a lasting, profound impact. Taguyod isn’t just about providing care and support—it was about fostering a spirit of compassion, unity, and service that will continue to drive the students to make a difference long after the event ends.

Article by Maya Dumayas
Photos by Akari Moridaira, Caitlin Bernardino and Janna Lacerna

14/03/2025

AADC’s Ascent: Dominating the WNCAA Street Dance Scene – One Medal at a Time

From a bronze finish at the UDO Philippines Qualifiers to securing silver at the WNCAA Streetdance Competition, the Assumption Antipolo Dance Crew (AADC) continues to climb the ranks, proving their journey in the competitive street dance scene is far from over.

The 55th WNCAA Streetdance Competition, held at the Rizal Memorial Sports Complex on February 9, 2025, was an intense battle of talent and artistry. Among their competitors, AADC stood out with a revamped version of their UDO routine. With minor adjustments made in just a week, they returned stronger and more confident than ever.

After their performance, Coach Gani Tayag gathered the team and asked how they felt about their run. The dancers, reflecting on their ex*****on, admitted they felt more at ease, allowing them to fully own the stage. He shared the same sentiment, expressing pride in how the improved sharpness and timing made all the difference. Their dedication to growth paid off, securing them a second-place finish, marking yet another milestone in their journey.

Beyond the main event, Mathea Almazan stole the spotlight in the junior division cypher, a freestyle battle that challenged both musicality and creativity. With every beat, she delivered a performance that was both technical and full of personality. As her teammates watched from the sidelines, their cheers erupted – not out of surprise, but out of pride. Having already claimed the title since the Gimik Band Screening and the Liyab Variety Show, Mathea’s victory only reaffirmed her reputation as a standout talent.

The results of the competition sparked discussions among the audience, with many expecting a different outcome. Regardless of the ranking, AADC’s powerful performance left a lasting impression, cementing their status as a rising powerhouse in the street dance community. Their steady climb from bronze to silver proves just how far they’ve come, and how much further they can go.

Gold is within reach – it’s only a matter of time.

All for J!

Photos by Sir Allan Carlos
Article by Nikki Iringan

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