Blog

  • Badminton FINDnancial DireAction

    Behind every student athlete, there are parents that are trying their best to support their child’s dream. This is true for a badminton player, Rezwan S. Ponteno, who transferred schools in South Cotabato because his parents could no longer find a job here in General Santos City. Even though Rezwan has the talent and passion for badminton, he is also a player that stands out here in GenSan, but financial burden forced his family to move to another city.

    We believe that transferring to another hometown just because of financial struggles is not the best solution. A student athlete should not give up a supportive environment because the budget becomes terrible. Instead, parents, coaches, school and community should work on this to find ways to help. Talent like Rezwan deserves to stay in the place where he can fully improve and develop his skills and financial problems should not be the solution that pushes him to move away.

    Many local groups and schools like National Academy of Sports (NAS) offer full scholarships for talented secondary student-athletes. It is an attached institution of the Department of Education, created by Republic Act No. 11470, and operates in close coordination with the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC). Other athletes in similar situations have benefited from these options and continued to improve and train without sacrificing to leave the environment they love. This shows that these groups exist, transferring is not the first option, it should be the last.

    In conclusion, when financial issues force student athletes to move, we lose potential and the support systems that help them improve. Schools and communities should pay attention to this and provide better solutions to this issue so athletes don’t have to move away because of budget struggles. The goal is to truly support sports development and we need Findnancial DireAction, we need to find real action in this terrible situation.

  • GenSan’s “lost gold” Former Star; Now Shining for South Cotabato

    In the quiet dawns of South Cotabato’s training courts, a young athlete discovered that greatness often begins in silence. Before crowds knew his skill, he was a boy in General Santos City battling financial hardships and limited opportunities—struggles that made his love for badminton feel both precious and painfully out of reach.

    Life in GenSan rarely favored athletes without resources. He often watched competitions pass him by, weighed down not by lack of talent but by the reality that passion alone couldn’t buy equipment, training, or entry fees. Yet the challenges only fueled his determination to find a place where his dream could grow.

    That turning point came when he moved to South Cotabato, where hope finally met opportunity. Here, Rezwan S. Ponteno found a community that believed in him, giving him the support he never had. Through four years of relentless practice, he transformed raw potential into real skill, proving that perseverance could rewrite the future he once feared losing.

    His rise wasn’t solitary. Standing beside him was his best friend and doubles partner, RC R. Miole, whose presence strengthened both his game and his resolve. Together, they dominated local tournaments and battled fiercely in the SRAA, testing not only their athletic ability but the depth of their trust. “Sad kay siya man akong sabay magdula,” Rezwan confessed, revealing the emotional weight of competing alongside someone he deeply valued.

    In the end, the sacrifices, doubts, and early-morning trainings paid off as Rezwan claimed victory in the SRAA—a triumph not only of talent but of heart. His journey proves that even in the face of financial struggle and personal challenges, a determined athlete can rise, inspire, and remind others that no dream is too distant when chased with unwavering resolve.

  • PONTENO SNATCHES FIRST MATCH

    South Cotabato stuns GenSan in double elimination round; moves to final rematch for SRAA 2025

    South Cotabato’s bet, Rezwan S. Ponteno, a former star athlete in General Santos City who represents the SRAA 2024 conquered RC R. Miole from GenSan’s player via feint shots, smashes and drops in SRAA 2025 Championship first match double elimination, claiming 2-1 victory (18-21, 21-17, 21-14) held at General Santos City National Secondary School of Arts and Trades (GSCNSSAT) PTA Dome, earlier.

    South Cotabato’s athlete, Ponteno, finished with 28 total kills — 13 smashes, eight feint shots, four dives and three drops, giving him an opportunity to fight in the SRAA 2025.

    After this game, both teams will enter a twice to beat match, moving to the final round to show who will triumph in the SRAA 2025 Championship Game.

    “Sad kay siya man akong kasabay magdula,” Ponteno expressed. “Gibutang nako sa isip nako na kung madaog or mapildi man ko, dula-dula ra gyud ni.”

    Ponteno lifts the momentum using strong forehand smashes to catch up with Miole and snatch a 9-8 advantage in the second set.

    Miole took the lead in the first set through his defense, allowing him to finish with a 21–18 score, his strong focus and steady control helped him keep the advantage until the end of the first set.

    “Naa siyay pressure kay among home city ang akong gina-represent,” Miole stated. “Happy kay nakita nako akong dati na kasabay nga nadaog siya karon.”

    Moreover, Ponteno did not give up, as he fought back, he showered a barrage of smashes that resulted to secure him in the match point, 21-16.

    Meanwhile, Miole regained the momentum, he generated a forehand smash and showed a strong defense in the third set. 

    After the battle between the two players, they shared a close bond, as they were friends and former teammates back when Ponteno was still part of the GenSan team.

  • How to Inspire Through the Youth’s Pulse

    There comes a moment when the world grows loud, and the quiet, important things seem almost invisible. Yet sometimes, something gentle tries to reach us: a subtle rhythm, a hidden energy, a pulse that is alive—but too often unnoticed.

    One day, that pulse revealed itself. It moved quietly among the people, calling, waving, trying to be seen. The crowd rushed on, eyes fixed on deadlines, distractions, and routines. No one paused to listen, except one young person.

    They stopped. Curiosity sparked. And in that simple pause, they discovered something extraordinary, the secret pulse of the youth is powerful, hopeful, and full of possibility. A single moment of attention unlocked awareness—and awareness sparked action.

    This pulse isn’t loud. It isn’t flashy. It lives in the courage to notice, the willingness to understand, and the choice to act with positivity. And here’s the following on how to connect with this energy, to feel the true heartbeat of your generations.

    First, but listening carefully

    The youth’s pulse speaks in subtle ways. Pay attention to ideas, dreams, and the quiet voices around you. Often, the most important messages are whispered, not shouted.

    Second, be curious

    Ask questions. Explore what motivates, inspires, and excites young people today. Curiosity is the bridge between seeing and truly understanding.

    Thirdly, by taking action

    Noticing isn’t enough. Take the inspiration you feel and turn it into positive action—help a friend, start a project, or join a cause that uplifts others.

    And, celebrates strength and hope

    The pulse of youth is full of resilience, creativity, and optimism. Celebrate it, share it, and let it inspire others to rise.

    Lastly, stay open and positive

    The youth pulse thrives on energy, connection, and possibility. Keep an open heart, embrace optimism, and trust in the power of your generation.

    And this helps to promise a rising generation, the secret pulse of the Filipino youth is alive everywhere in schools, neighborhoods, online communities, and hearts. It is patient, persistent, and positive. And it is waiting for every young person to notice it.

    By listening, by acting, and by celebrating it, you don’t just witness this pulse—you become part of it.

    The youth of today carry the power to inspire, to uplift, and to shape the future. And that power begins with one simple choice. To pay attention, to care, and to embrace the pulse that beats quietly but strongly within us all.

  • “Superman” who lights in the dark

    A wonder of General Santos City Nation Secondary School of Arts and Trades, there is a dedicated adviser for six years, who has turned his life experiences into a mission: to ensure that no Filipino youth has to navigate the same hardships he once endured.

    Every word he speaks is rooted in resilience and truth. From communities struggling with inequality to schools where young people grapple with limited opportunities, Lomocho’s voice serves as guidance and protection. It encourages youth to see that their future can surpass their past.

    His message reflects a core Filipino value—respect for personal dignity and equality—reminding young people that every voice matters. In a society where hierarchy and age can sometimes overshadow youth perspectives, Lomocho insists that knowledge of one’s rights is a shield, and that empowerment begins with awareness.

    Lomocho advocates for understanding and defending rights not only for oneself but for the generations to come. Being informed, he says, builds resilience, courage, and the ability to challenge unfairness. By valuing their rights, Filipino youth can also help others claim theirs, creating a culture of shared responsibility and fairness.

    His advocacy aligns closely with SDG 5—Gender Equality By encouraging every young Filipino, regardless of gender, to know their rights and assert their voice, Lomocho challenges social norms and systemic biases that can limit opportunity. He envisions a Philippines where everyone can fully participate, make choices freely, and shape their own future.

    Through his work, he demonstrates that one voice, grounded in truth and compassion, can ripple through communities, empowering Filipino youth to stand tall, speak out, and redefine their paths,James B. Lomocho.

  • Answering the Call: A Generation Rising for Their Rights

    A wonder of General Santos City Nation Secondary School of Arts and Trades (GSCNSSAT) there is a dedicated adviser for six years, who has turned his life experiences into a mission: to ensure that no Filipino youth has to navigate the same hardships he once endured.

    In that simple act, something extraordinary unfolded. He realized a powerful truth: rights do not live only in grand speeches or loud protests—they live in the courage of those willing to pay attention. His moment of awareness grew into understanding, and understanding grew into action. What followed was not just wonderful—it was the beginning of change, sparked by one person who chose to hear what everyone else ignored.

    This awakening lies at the heart of the message that James B. Lomocho, a teacher with a vision far bigger than the four corners of his classroom, strives to share with every student he meets. For him, knowing your rights is not an academic lesson—it is a shield, a source of confidence, protection, and courage.

    “Rights are your shield,” he reminds his students, hoping that every young person will learn to use that shield to defend themselves, uplift others, and build a world where no one is left unprotected. But what exactly are these rights that call out to us? What are these freedoms waiting to be heard?

    You have the right to quality education

    Every child and every student deserves meaningful learning—an education that nurtures dreams and shapes futures. This is not a privilege for a chosen few; it is a right that empowers the entire generation.

    You have the right to be safe

    Safety is essential. Each person deserves to walk, learn, and live without fear. Your well-being matters, and it should never be compromised.

    You have the right to be heard

    Your voice counts. Your emotions, struggles, and ideas matter. There will always be someone willing to listen. Seeking help is not weakness—it is strength.

    You have the right to privacy

    Everyone is entitled to personal space and the freedom to protect the parts of their life they are not ready to reveal. Your dignity is yours to guard.

    You have the right to be protected from discrimination

    Young or old, rich or poor, regardless of gender, identity, or religion in every person is equal. No one has the right to diminish your worth. As the old saying goes, “The world is round”-the respect you give is the respect you receive.

    These five rights are more than statements—they are the heartbeat of humanity and the foundation of what it means to be a student, a citizen, and a person. They remind us that everyone deserves protection, respect, and dignity.

    And just like the man who paused when no one else did, we are all called to listen—to notice when rights are being ignored, silenced, or forgotten. Because in listening, we begin to understand. And in understanding, we begin to act.As G. James B. Lomocho once said,  “You have the right to fight for your right as a person.”

    Today’s generation is rising—not with noise, but with awareness. Not with force, but with conviction. Change begins with a single step, a single voice, a single moment of courage. And it begins with you.

  • CJs deserve better!

    Another quarter has already come to an end, students moving forward as they survived a month flooded with deadlines. Students celebrate their achievement, receiving praises from their teachers. But, the atmosphere seems different in the world of campus journalists. I should be proud to be a student journalist representing my school—General Santos City National Secondary School of Arts and Trades (GSCNSSAT), yet I feel very shameful to be one. I was confused and shocked, holding my report card struck with a straight line of seven. Do my rights to quality education still exist?

    Despite representing the school’s name, it is heart-breaking to hear that some teachers aren’t considering such extracurricular activities. As a student journalist who spent nights weaving stories that would later bring the school pride at the Division Schools Press Conference. Imagine, I learned to interview different people, verify facts, and seize community issues with clarity far beyond what any classroom activity can teach me. Yet still, all I received was the report card with the irrevocable line of 7. 

    Normal students researched for hours and did investigations, wrote under pressure, and represented the school the same as what student journalists like me do, but none of this will count on the system. The very basis of the problem lies in the fact that a child’s right to quality education promotes growth beyond the walls of the classroom.
    Read More:Beyond the Classroom Wall: Community Engagement Instruction | Wang | World Journal of Education

    Earlier, Mr. James B. Lomocho, while at the press conference, reminded campus journalists that quality education means that no student would suffer fear in exposing his or her talents. Education should empower and not intimidate, he maintained. But how can I be empowered while even representing the school’s name becomes threatening to our grades? 

    According to the research, quality education is not just about quizzes and reports, it is creating thinkers and leaders, shaping young minds who are willing to ask questions, investigate, and be the voice of the voiceless. Student journalists learn things most people struggle with, such as dealing with fake news, time management, and having courage. CJs learn beyond what is taught inside the classroom, but the system refuses to see it.
    Read more:Right to Education | Education Above All Foundation

    This is why something must change. Schools cannot keep demanding excellence on the competition stage while refusing to reward it in the classroom. Grades should reflect holistic learning. Effort should not be invisible. And students should never be forced to choose between academic standing and the passion that makes them better individuals.

    The experience of mine is really upsetting, student journalists like me do not just write to skip classes, rather, we write out of passion. We write to inform the public, to give service to the community, and to be the voice of the voiceless. And for that, we should earn support, acknowledgment, and a proper understanding of what education is. Campus journalists deserve more.

  • Protect Learners from earners!

    Quality education is not a favor, it is a constitutional right and a global commitment under Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4). Yet is questionable, for millions of Filipino learners, this right exists only on paper. While the government promises free and accessible education, many still lack access to it. In a country overflowing with political speech and reports that billions of peso budgets are allocated with different priorities, where are the funds that were supposed to ensure every student can learn?

    In the recent school-based press conference, James B. Lomocho—a law student, tackles students having the right to quality education. Yet, as I observed a crowd of students wearing their uniforms, it made me wonder if all Filipino children had the same opportunity as them. Do these rights apply to all? 

    It is very disappointing to hear that in a community where poverty is highest, classrooms are at their worst. Schools in rural areas have no choice but to operate with collapsing ceilings and public schools were lacking classroom. According to the news, 165,000 pesos was funded to Department of Education (DepEd), and it would take 55 years to solve the problem in classroom shortage. This heart-breaking scene made me realize that the poorer the community, the lower the government’s urgency.
    Read More: DepEd: 165K classroom shortage could take 55 years to solve | GMA News Online

    Data reinforces the tragedy. According to multiple investigative reports, over ₱1 trillion in education funds have either been delayed, mismanaged, or lost to corruption—money that could have built thousands of classrooms, supplied millions of textbooks, and provided digital tools to remote learners. Instead, poor students are told to “be patient” while their future is taken away by projects that never reach completion. Corruption is not an oversight. It is an operation. And its casualties are children whose only crime is being born poor.
    Read More:PIDS – Philippine Institute for Development Studies

    I was dismayed knowing that not even urban communities are exempted from this kind of tragedy. Minimum-wage families, already worrying about the rising prices, are forced to pay for hidden costs of education, material needed for projects, since public school budgets are woefully insufficient or inadequately reported. Problems in overcrowded classrooms are still existing, yet budget requests for the construction of more classrooms are frequently belatedly approved after so much effort. This is not so much inefficiency as a system that punishes the poor who dare to seek that education the government promised.
    Read More:article_210691_9e6154cf85b3295f5900e309becc6597.pdf

    It demands public, transparent budget tracking and immediate punishment to all who commits crime. I am calling out those officials robbing the nation’s future, no more reassignments. no more quiet resignations. no more reports hidden behind administration. 

    If our leaders continue to starve the education system that truly belonged to all Filipino learners, then they must suffer consequences that are according to the damage they inflict. 

    It is already the time that our government should act. Quality Education will always remain a privilege and not a right until integrity in government is elected above self-preservation. And the Philippines will continue raising generations whose dreams are built on breadcrumbs stolen from budgets that would have filled their future.

  • RIGHTS WRONGED

    Law must Lead, not Linger!

    Published by DSPC Inquirer on November 26, 2025

    In a society where rights are written yet rarely felt, the gap between law and implementation continues to widen. Justice was ignored when officials were at fault, education that was supposed to be the key for our better future wasn’t accessible by many. This issue was brought up during the school-based press conference at General Santos City National Secondary School of Arts and Trades (GSCNSSAT), where Lakas Bisig Publication adviser James B. Lomocho emphasized that we have rights protected by law. 

    During the school-based press conference at GSCNSSAT, Lomocho reminded campus journalists of their various rights as an individual such as quality education and safety. The government already passed laws to protect these rights but despite the powerful constitution, rights remain denied not by lack of legislation, but by the government’s failure to enforce what it already promised. 

    The Constitution ensures quality education and accountability laws command responsibility. But still, millions of Filipinos are considered functionally illiterate, public institutions continue to escape responsibility. Policies are announced publicly but they’re not executed effectively. This proves that the problem is not the absence of law, but our government’s failure to act with urgency.

    FUNDamental Educational Rights
    Every freedom and national advancement is supposed to find its foundation in education, yet one of the most delayed obligations of the government has been in providing education. We cannot classify quality education as a privilege, rather, it is a constitutional right upon which the government does not act.

    Public schools worry about school facilities, overcrowded classrooms, or old textbooks that public schools have to provide. Meanwhile, according to inquirer.net 1.055 trillion pesos meant for the education sector have either been mismanaged or lost to corruption, with students lacking knowledge their age must have. A right delayed here is not an inconvenience, it is a stolen future.
    Read more: DepEd, DPWH get highest 2025 budget allocation

    Officials often claim that delays are due to limited budgets. But excuses cannot replace action. To solve this issue, the government must set a priority on putting funds to proper use, fight corruption in educational programs, enforce transparency, and enable independent monitoring to ensure that legal provisions supporting education receive full implementation.


    Accountability is a responsibility
    This is the grim reality reflected in unresolved complaints and stalled investigations, accountability laws are done only depending on the person who’s at fault. Laws restricting the abuse of power and public funds are meant to compel accountability. Failure to ensure accountability results in the collapse of all other rights.

    Violations usually go unpunished because we lack political support. Complaints aren’t heard, reports are neglected, and investigations run indefinitely or end quietly without notice. So, citizens are left defenseless and watch their right erode while the system protects the powerful. Rights do not exist in isolation but become dead when not enforced. 

    For there to be real solutions, there must be transparency in budgets and investigations, and guaranteed timelines for the resolution of violations without exception. Accountability must be non-negotiable because rights are useless without enforcement.

    Justice is a Must
    Many said Filipinos suffer because of not enough legislation to follow. But, we are not suffering from a lack of laws, they are suffering from the government’s inability, or unwillingness, to enforce them. A delayed right is already a denied right, and citizens deserve actions. The hopes of our nation must have the same opportunity others’ have. Crimes will continue to threaten our safety unless accountability is pursued.

    The government must act with urgency, transparency, and integrity. Policies must not remain promises. Rights must not remain in theory. Implementation must not remain an option. Because in a nation where rights are delayed, the people are denied, and Filipinos deserve better than delay disguised as progress.

  • Speak up when something is wrong – Aspiring lawyer

    GENERAL SANTOS CITY —Law undergraduate James B. Lomocho provided campus journalists with guidance on their legal rights during the Division Schools Press Conference (DSPC) for School Year 2025–2026, equipping them with knowledge to safely navigate reporting challenges and potential intimidation.

    During the DSPC, Lomocho outlined essential rights for student journalists, including the right to safety, the right to be heard, and the right to protect their personal well-being, he added that knowing these rights can help Campus Journalists (CJs) respond effectively in situations where they may feel pressured or unsafe.

    “You have rights to protect your safety,” Lomocho said. “Your rights are your shield.”

    He added that personal rights also cover areas such as privacy, consent, and ethical interactions. “Rights come with responsibility,” he stated, noting the importance of respecting the rights of others.

    “Speak up when something is wrong,” he exclaimed, “everyone deserves to be understood.”

    Lomocho also addressed questions from participants about potential intimidation or unfair treatment, explaining that awareness of legal protections helps student journalists manage challenging situations and seek appropriate support through school channels.

    “You have the right to be safe.. so we have the Anti-bullying act,” he remarked.

    The session concluded with Lomocho emphasizing the need for student journalists to maintain professional conduct while being aware of and safeguarding their personal rights.