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Plaid Ideas, Assumption Antipolo, Antipolo (2026)

17/06/2026

Tokyo Study Tour 2026

On April 21 2026, The Narita International airport warmly welcomed Assumptionistas from Grades 10 and 11, excitement mingling with curiosity as they stepped into the vibrant atmosphere of Japan. The Tokyo Study Tour, which ran until April 27, brought together these students and two teacher chaperones on a week-long exploration of Tokyo, granting them a view of the world through the lens of a vastly different culture.

Over the course of the first two days, the participants explored numerous landmarks and cultural sites such as Asakusa Culture Tourist Information Center, Senso-ji Temple, and Nakamise-dori Shopping Street. Their activities ranged from fortune-telling, shrine cleansing, and learning about Japanese art and products.

A highlight of the study tour was the students’ visit to Sakuragaoka School, where they learned how to write in Kanji, watched a Shodo performance, and participated in the cultural knot-tying craft called mizuhiki. Despite the language barrier, heartfelt conversations echoed through the classrooms as meaningful multicultural connections were strengthened with the 2nd-year students. Together with their Sakuragoaka peers, they explored Asukayama Park and several museums where they learned about Japanese traditions and historical figures.

The cultural immersion continued as Assumptionistas were granted the opportunity to create their own kintsugi pieces, experiencing the Japanese art of repairing broken ceramics with golden seams. Shortly after, visits to the Meiji Jingu Temple and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Observation Deck followed. On the sixth day, the students spent time with their host families and Sakuragaoka counterparts as they explored various cultural and educational areas around Tokyo.

As they finally departed on the seventh day, they returned to Manila with renewed hearts and enriched perspectives.

Ultimately, the tour reminds us that forging connections remains a quintessential part of the human experience. No matter who we are or where we’re from, friendship has the ability to bridge the gaps that sometimes words cannot.

Article by Ripley Suarez
Photos from Tokyo Study Tour Participants

16/06/2026

Soar Across Horizons: CIRRO Seniors’ Legacy 2026

Under mini hot-air balloon lanterns strung across Assumption Antipolo’s football field, Batch 26 held their Seniors’ Legacy, CIRRO, on April 18 from 4 PM to 10 PM. Named after cirrus clouds, the highest and lightest clouds in the sky, CIRRO carried the belief in what lies beyond the immediate horizon. Proceeds from the event went to AA’s PACEM Eco-Park and scholars from the Saint Marie Eugénie (SME) Scholarship Program.

Fundraiser booths run by the seniors lined the entrance: the Finance and Concessionaires Committee sold pins and stickers, the Promotions and Marketing Committee provided cotton candy art, and the Security Committee offered rental mats for guests. Those guests then turned their attention to CIRRO’s Mini Variety Show, with performances from artists Colinas, Patrick Maglaya, Dree, Yale, and 11:11, alongside groups AADC, AADC Jr., and Hype Kids. DJ Bryce kept the energy alive with remixes of songs including Beauty and a Beat by Justin Bieber. The night wrapped up with the Cloud 9 raffle draw, sending lucky winners home with prizes such as a LEGO Ford Bronco set and a Kodak Charm Camera.

The Seniors’ Memory Board was the heart of the event. It stood at the center of the field, decorated with past batch shirts and a collage of photos from their years in AA. Beside it, small letter boxes invited guests to leave handwritten notes for the graduating seniors.

“As Davids, it was one of our biggest Goliaths this year,” said SCAA President Mikayla Rolle, reflecting on what it meant to organize the event as a small batch. “We really could do anything we set our minds to as long as we are united by one goal and consistently work towards it,” she added. Grade 11 Batch Representative Gab Ecijan echoed the sentiment: “It became an avenue to reminisce on our journey—a journey of hope, sisterhood, and transformation.” Gab shared that CIRRO was “truly reflective of our identity as a batch.”

Wherever the wind takes Batch 26 next, one thing is certain: the sky is the limit. Soar across horizons.

Article by Heira Balao-as
Photos by Eza Agustin

12/06/2026

Independence Day: A Proclamation of Loyalty, Legacy, and Liberty

Today marks 128 years of the country’s independence from Spanish rule.

After over three centuries of colonial tyranny, the Philippines finally declared its independence from Spanish rule on June 12, 1898. This historic proclamation was spearheaded by a resolute group of Filipino revolutionaries under the leadership of Emilio Aguinaldo.

The centuries of Spanish occupation represented a grueling period of colonial subjugation, where Filipino culture and dignity were systematically reduced to subordination. By the latter part of the 16th century, the Catholic Church had expanded its authority to become the archipelago's most dominant institution. Under the weight of "frailocracy"—where friars held absolute local command—Spanish authority achieved near-total domination over the daily lives of the natives (Legal Clarity, 2025).

The Philippine economy was restructured to serve the crown, becoming heavily reliant on the galleon trade and the import of foreign resources. Beneath the surface of this economic shift lay a grim reality: the Encomienda System. This labor structure effectively turned lower-class Filipinos into slaves within their own motherland, stripping them of their land and their labor to enrich a distant empire (Sinaunang Panahon, 2025).

Despite the crushing weight of oppression, the Filipino spirit remained unyielding. Resistance was not a sudden explosion but a slow-burning fire. According to History (2010), opposition began as early as the 16th century, when Filipino priests first questioned the exploitative use of Roman Catholicism. By the late 19th century, the Ilustrados—educated Filipinos of the middle class—began a sophisticated campaign for reform. However, the movement shifted from quiet advocacy to a roar of revolution on July 7, 1892, with the emergence of the renowned secret revolutionary society: Kataastaasan Kagalanggalang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan (K*K). Founded by Andres Bonifacio, this organization ignited a continuous, organized struggle for national liberty.

By 1896, the revolutionary sentiment had surged across the provinces, uniting Filipinos of all social strata under a singular, sacred goal: total liberation from colonial rule. The Philippine Revolution was a grueling conflict that eventually led to the Pact of Biak-na-Bato on December 14, 1897. The Biak-na-Bato was a temporary truce between the Spanish colonial government and the Filipino revolutionaries (Biyak-na-Bato, 2015). Following this brief pause, the momentum for freedom proved unstoppable. On June 12, 1898, the Philippine flag was unfurled to the tune of the national anthem. Shortly after gaining this hard-won independence, Emilio Aguinaldo was inaugurated as the first President of the Philippines (1899–1901), marking the birth of the first republic in Asia.

Today, Independence Day is far more than a national holiday; it is a profound commemoration of a legacy built on sacrifice. It serves as a time to honor the national heroes, from those of intellectual minds to the anonymous soldiers, who played pivotal roles in the fight for freedom. Their courage is the bedrock of the modern Philippine nation, reminding every Filipino that liberty is a gift that must be cherished, protected, and never taken for granted.

Article by Sachi Delos Santos
Pubmat by Unica Navarro

References:
Biyak-na-Bato. (2015). In V. Almario (Ed.), Sagisag Kultura (Vol 1). Manila: National Commission for Culture and the Arts. Retrieved from https://philippineculturaleducation.com.ph/biyak-na-bato/
Fajutag, J. (2024). Philippine independence day: A celebration of freedom, culture, and language. Globalization Partners International. https://www.globalizationpartners.com/2024/06/12/philippine-independence-day/
History. (2010). Philippine independence declared. History. Philippine independence declared | June 12, 1898 | HISTORY
LegalClarity. (2025). Philippine colonization: From Spain to Independence. LegalClarity. Philippines Colonization: From Spain to Independence - LegalClarity
Sinaunang Panahon. (2025). The encomienda system: Spanish colonizers’ labor system in the Philippines. Sinaunang Panahon. The Encomienda System: Spanish Colonizers' Labor System in the Philippines

11/06/2026

Revolution & evolution in Rizal Province

When José Rizal was alive, there was no such thing as Rizal Province.

At the very least, it didn’t bear his name just yet. Both would later cement themselves in Philippine revolutionary history in important ways, but while the death of the man heralded the end of one colonial government, the birth of the province marked the beginning of another.

Rizal Province has gone by many names over its long life. In the early years of Spanish colonial presence in the Philippines, the municipalities that would later become a part of Rizal then belonged to Tondo and Laguna. There only began to be a distinction in 1853, when the Spanish administration formally separated 11 municipalities to create what would later be called the District of Morong.

A branch of the Katipunan was established in Morong during the Philippine Revolution, quickly becoming a rebel stronghold. Its role during the conflict earned it a place on the newborn nation’s flag: Morong was one of the eight districts represented by a ray on the Philippine sun. The residents of Morong continued their revolutionary cause well into the Philippine-American War.
On June 11, 1901, President William McKinley's administration elected to unite Morong with the old province of Manila, with the resulting province (of 32 municipalities) named after José Rizal. Pasig was deemed the new capital.

Rizal was split once again during the Marcos administration to form the National Capital Region. Pasig became part of NCR, but remained the provincial capital until 2008, when it became Antipolo City.

Today, Rizal is a metropolitan province that blends art and history with progress and development. It is home to natural wonders like the Masungi Georeserve, the Hinulugang Taktak waterfall, and Calinawan Cave (a Katipunero meeting place!), as well as man-made attractions like the Pinto Art Museum, Angono Mural Street, and Bahay Na Bato. Its living cultural heritage— in the form of fiestas and pilgrimages— is a sign of a province that continues to evolve creatively, living up to its namesake in more ways than one.

Article by Mikaia Sanchez
Pubmat by Natalia Llamas, Unica Navarro and Lourdes Calaycay

AnyDayGuide. (n.d.). Rizal Province Day in the Philippines Date in the current year: June 11, 2026. AnydayGuide. https://anydayguide.com/calendar/5939

27/05/2026

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha, the “Festival of Sacrifice,” is one of the most significant celebrations in Islam. It honors the story of the Prophet Ibrahim (known in Christian scripture as Abraham) who was willing to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. At the last moment, God provided a ram instead, symbolizing mercy and faith. This act of devotion remains the heart of the festival.

The celebration begins with communal prayers in mosques and open grounds, where worshippers gather in unity. The central ritual, Qurbani, involves the sacrifice of an animal—often a sheep, goat, or cow— to honor Ibrahim's sacrifice. The meat is shared in three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the poor. This practice ensures that blessings extend beyond households, reaching those most in need.

Beyond the sacrifice, Eid al-Adha is a time of charity, family, and festivity. Families prepare hearty meals, children receive gifts or money, and communities come together in joy. In diverse societies like the Philippines, the occasion also reflects interfaith harmony, as Muslim families share food and goodwill with Christian neighbors, strengthening bonds across faiths.

Globally, traditions vary but the spirit remains the same. In the Middle East, large public feasts mark the occasion. In South Asia, distributing meat to neighbors and the poor is central. In Africa, vibrant clothing, music, and dance add color to the celebration. Everywhere, Eid al-Adha emphasizes compassion and community.

Eid al-Adha is a reminder of faith, sacrifice, and solidarity. It calls people to obedience to God, generosity to others, and unity in diversity. In a world often divided, the festival stands as a powerful symbol of shared humanity.

Article by Maya Dumayas
Pubmat by Simone Zulueta

10/05/2026

Hope in Motion: Year-End SY 2025-2026

On April 14, 2026, Assumption Antipolo celebrated another successful academic year coming to an end. The year-end festivities were a fitting tribute to the collective achievements of the school community this school year 2025-2026.

The day began with a Mass with the theme “Hope in Our Hearts, Care in Our Hands: A Mission of Gratitude for the Earth,” reminding us that hope does not exist without action; it must be tied to faith and practice. Following the Eucharistic celebration, the school recognized its student-athletes, calling each team to the stage to receive their well-earned applause.

The spotlight shifted from the accomplishments of one year to the promise of another, with the much-anticipated announcement of the newly elected Student Council of Assumption Antipolo (SCAA). This marked the passing of the torch to a fresh set of student leaders, ready to carry the mission of the student body forward and embrace new beginnings.

The festivities continued in the Assumpta Theater for a captivating showcase. AA Ballerinas and distinguished Philippine Ballet Theater Alumni lit up the stage, showcasing their graceful skill through a rendition of Paquita, a classical ballet piece, alongside a nostalgic mashup of classic OPM songs. Between the two segments, Riff-All-Stars charmed the crowd with a rendition of dahan-dahan by Lola Amour. As the song came to a close, the Komusikasyon club joined them onstage as the two groups covered Panalangin by Apo Hiking Society.

After the recital, students went on to celebrate the year-end through their respective batch activities, allowing for a more intimate gathering that solidified sisterhood and camaraderie, even on the final day of the school year.

Ultimately, the year-end activities served as the perfect means of commemorating School Year 2025-2026. The Assumption family is reminded that the promise to “Walk in hope, live the mission,” does not end with the school year, but continues to live on in our hearts. Together, we are sure to set hope in motion in the years to come.

Article by Zurina Viloria
Photos by Zane Marcos & Julia Villanueva

01/05/2026

Today, May 1, marks Labor Day, a celebration dedicated to honoring the contributions and sacrifices that workers across all sectors of society make every day. Today is not just a national day of rest, but a symbol that takes us back to the pivotal moment of the workers' rights movement.

It was originally intended to commemorate the American Haymarket Affair, during which several casualties and deaths took place. Ordinary workers were executed by police officers after they staged a labor rally. Since then, Labor Day has become a national tribute to the resilience, dedication, and perseverance of workers who continue to shape their lives, families, and country’s progress.

In the Philippines, the holiday traces back to the historic labor movement. Across decades, thousands of Filipino workers marched to the Malacañang, urging their rights as workers, better working conditions, and equity from the injustices of the American colonial authorities.

Now, Labor Day is a day to recognize all hardworking Filipinos, including front-liners, laborers, professionals, informal workers, and even students who balance work and studies. All their efforts reflect their eagerness to build a better life for themselves and the people around them. Their determination triumphs amidst rising costs of living, economic inflation, job insecurity, and overwhelming appeals for fair wages and safer working conditions.

This holiday pays increased homage to the workers of our countries. It is also a reminder to recognize, respect, and deepen our empathy for the people behind every service and system we rely on, regardless of the juncture. Lastly, it is a call to continue supporting fair labor practices and to uplift the hands that keep the country moving forward.

Article by Yda Santiago & Bea Colcol
Pubmat by Gab Juan

26/04/2026

Cascading Colors: Reflections of “Glassbound Escapade”

Bathed in a prismatic, ethereal glow, the stage became a playground for the soul, as the cast of Glassbound Escapade encapsulated the trials of sacrifice, camaraderie, and forgiveness. On April 10, the Pamulatan club invited the audience to explore the play’s whimsical world in the highschool penthouse.

The play follows the story of 3 best friends— Hailey, Clover, and Constance— who go to a summer camp. There, they discover a magical kaleidoscope. Through that kaleidoscope, they venture into an enchanted world. As they explore the dreamlike landscape, tension arises among the three, corrupting the land. Each of them must confront their emotions and faults in order to come to terms with one another. The girls learn to treasure their friendship forever.

The production was woven together through the combined visions and talents of the crew. Yuna Garcia, Annie Jaring, Kolya Gedalanga, Eli Morales, Everly Canaleta, Joey Alverez, MJ Adao, and Sam Matugas crafted the story, while members Clau Garcia, Sophia Jalandoni, Uno Linao, Joan Madriaga, Gabrielle Robles, Brianna Ramoso, and Andrea Toribio curated the artistic vision. Keli Roan, Jada Villavicencio, Aliyah Orendain, Liz Yabut, Maria Reyes and Cirila Dupaya engineered the lights and soundscapes that brought the story to life.

The cast, led by Gabrielle Redillas as Hailey, Abigail Catacutan as Constance, Yana Mangulabnan as Clover, Sophia Pascual as Desmond, Arabella Sanchez as Claire, Sian Aloiado as Elaine, Pauline Bersamin as the Lola, and Athena Apostol as Gnomette, all delivered unforgettable performances, breathing life into their characters.

More than just a project, this production was a collective journey that proved the club's unwavering commitment and effort. Every member poured their unique talents and hearts into the creative process. Through this collected effort, Pamulatan delivered a work of art that touched the hearts of their audience.

Beyond the script and stage, Glassbound Escapade became a mirror for our own growth, calling us to embody the values of love and forgiveness, teaching us that true treasure is found in the resilience of our friendships. The play served as a reminder that calls us to confront our faults and choose to grow throughout the journey together.

Article by Marga Torres
Photos by Pia Sagle

25/04/2026

Kalinga ng Kaagapay: Women of AA Week 2026

“Abante, Babae!” was the enduring message that resonated with many as Assumption Antipolo launched its first-ever observance of Women of AA Week last March 24-27 in line with International Women’s Month. Inspired by the theme “Kaagapay,” meaning “companion,” the SCAA arranged a set of activities for the week aiming to uplift sisterhood among the women of the school community.

Classes, split into two, vigorously played against each other, determined to take the prize in the “Pinay Henya” Check-In Activity as the project kicked off on Tuesday. The game featured several female advocates, politicians, and athletes among others: Leni Robredo, Risa Hontiveros, Cory Aquino, Alyssa Liu, and Emma Watson, celebrating each of the modern female pioneers and the ideas they championed for the community.

Over the week, the “Wonder Women” activity saw jars sent out to each batch, giving students the opportunity to write letters of affirmation to their own personal female role models in life, spotlighting silent heroines whose daily efforts have oftentimes been overlooked or lost in the mundane.

Student buskers, voices amplified by mics and accompanied by guitars, also opened captivating performances for audiences from Tuesday to Friday. The buskers set out into groups to serenade each level in high school; their dedication and charisma vitalized fellow students amidst the grueling pressure of the long test week.

In spearheading the week’s initiatives, SCAA Asst. Treasurer Iya Del Rosario acclaimed the school body as the SCAA’s “kaagapay” in bringing the project to life. She added that women empowerment is not achieved merely “through the utterance of a few phrases.” It is the support of a community in the smallest of ideas that can “help a person actualize their potential and become their best selves.”

Stepping into the future is not a one-woman task—“Kaagapay” reminds Assumptionistas that moving forward requires seeing, nurturing, and bringing out the best side of others.

Article by Elisha Aspiras
Photos by Julia Villanueva

24/04/2026

Forefront of Action: Arts and Academic Fair 2026

AAAF Day 2 began with the Research Congress on March 19. Hosts Gulianna Madrigal and Safeeya Sevilla invited Director for Academic Affairs Ms. Maria Lourdes Abarquez to deliver the opening remarks. Students then applauded as Mr. Nelson Bugnosen presented panelists Mr. Louie Lorenzo, Mr. Khitz Mayuga, and Ms. Barbie Paraguya. Held simultaneously, the congress was divided into poster and paper presentation.

At the poster presentation, groups from Grades 7-11 gathered at their respective boards in the Assumpta Theatre Lobby. Students paced nearby, quietly rehearsing their parts. “We hope to do our best,” said Iya Del Rosario of 9-4, reflecting on the hard work of her groupmates. Those finished presenting wore wide smiles. “I’m more encouraged,” said Sophia Pascual of 11-2, noting how the event fueled their passion for research. Presenters fiddled with their index cards as they listened and nodded at the judges’ suggestions.

“We do want to have a better research culture,” judge Ms. Jewel Encarnacion said, observing the presenters’ excitement and nervousness.

Inside the theatre, attendees listened with support and utmost attention to the paper presentations. Grade 9 finalists delivered eco-friendlier alternatives to ease the environmental effects of traditional counterparts. Grade 10 suggested sustainable solutions to flood mitigation and plastic pollution. Grade 12 finalists from ABM and STEM investigated financial literacy and cognitive ability.

The congress concluded with School Director Ms. Grace Magataas’ words: “Research begins with an experience that makes us pause.” She urged everyone to be researchers by default, congratulating presenters for sharing insights the student body will carry to the world.

Students then returned to their respective clusters for the “Leader I Want To Be” activity, where they designed vision boards to represent their goals and aspirations.

Altogether, the AAAF showcased student-led presentations, leadership, and a growing culture of research within the AA community.

Article by Althea Dela Cerna, Esha Aspiras, Heira Balao-as
Photos by Zel Razon, Zane Marcos, Julia Villanueva

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