1Light roast coff ee is lighter in body with

a bright smooth edge and exotic highland mountain coff ee aroma. The light roast coff ee is the least bitter, with a clean fi nish and has the least body of select roasts.

Light RoastLight roast coff ee is lighter in body with

a bright smooth edge and exotic highland mountain coff ee aroma. The light roast coff ee is the least bitter, with a clean fi nish and has the least body of select roasts.

Light Roast

2 As I watched the sky where all the sea birds fl y towards their freedom, I remember the most beautiful sunset of my life. The orange lights, the heavenly stars, the tranquil people, and the person who went with it too. It seemed as if my life stopped for a moment when I saw the cup. It is still in its place, no one had ever touched it, not even me. I was afraid I might lose the memory of the person who sat there and drank from it. I went to the cup, stared at it, and imagined the last person who used it. Will this person ever return to this place? Will this person reach the place? Will this person reach the so called “home” safely? To the birds of sea that went with this person, I envy you. A light memory of mine that I will never forget.

As I watched the sky where all the sea birds fl y towards their freedom, I remember the most beautiful sunset of my life. The orange lights, the heavenly stars, the tranquil people, and the person who went with it too. It seemed as if my life stopped for a moment when I saw the cup. It is still in its place, no one had ever touched it, not even me. I was afraid I might lose the memory of the person who sat there and drank from it. I went to the cup, stared at it, and imagined the last person who used it. Will this person ever return to this place? Will this person reach the place? Will this person reach the so called “home” safely? To the birds of sea that went with this person, I envy you. A light memory of mine that I will never forget.

2

As I watched the sky where all the sea birds fl y towards their freedom, I remember the most beautiful sunset of my life. The orange lights, the heavenly stars, the tranquil people,

Birds of sea By Noname

3This is not a LOVE story. But I can still

remember the very fi rst time I seriously thought I was in love - or fell in love. I was at such a tender age that time. 4th grade, I think (can you imagine that coming from a fourth grader?!). Nonetheless, I had a serious crush on her. Yep, she was so cute I likened her to a white fl uff y rabbit. And oh, she was chubby - like a rabbit (I love rabbits, by the way). I honestly had a serious crush on her that I thought I was in love with her during those silly days back then. I thought we were “meant to be”. Anyways, that was funny. Those days were funny. Enough of that, let’s move on.

This is not a LOVE story. But I have to be honest to myself, I can’t remember the fl ames I felt with the young girl I fi rst fell in love with. We were young, but still, we took the risk. We were happy. We were really happy. But statistics shows that there’s only 2.38 per cent chance that fairytales may materialize among

the mortals. BUT the important thing is - I was happy. She was happy. I’ll never forget her (let’s just hope Amnesia doesn’t come my way).

This is not a LOVE story. But I think I’m starting to fall in love again. I don’t want to. Love is what makes us human. Humans have weaknesses. I don’t wanna be human. I don’t want to have weaknesses. I used to believe that the greatest force on Earth is gravity. But now I’m starting to think that I can defy gravity - but can’t defy love. I don’t know. I don’t know where this one leads to. I’ll just take the risk like what I did before and hope I don’t end up on the puddles. It’s risky - but I’m willing to take it. Rereading this paragraph made me think I was starting to get corny. But just to make things clear, this is NOT a love story.

This is NOT a love story. Period.

3

This is not a love story Part I...

By BogartSDL

4Hindi pa nagbubukang-liwayway ay

nagulat na ako sa mga batang nagtatakbuhan patungo sa kubo ni Tiyo Kadyo. Napabangon na lamang ako at tinungo ang lababo para maghilamos ng mukha at kaagad na pumwesto sa hapag-kainan. Isang mainit-init na tsokolate at mabangong tapsilog ang inilapag ni inay sa mesa. Kaagad ko itong nilantakan na tila ba hindi nakakain nang limang buwan. Ilang saglit lang ay narinig ko na naman ang mga yabag ng mga paa. Dumungaw ako sa bintana at natanaw ko sa ‘di kalayuan ang mga batang kasing-edad ko. Patungo rin sila sa kubo ni Tiyo Kadyo. Tila nahiwagaan ako sa aking nakita. Ano kayang meron sa kubo na iyon? Bakit ganoon na lamang kasabik ang mga bata na pumunta doon?

Kinabukasan ay maaga akong gumising. Pumwesto ako sa harap ng bintana habang palihim na hinihintay ang pagdaan ng mga bata. Saktong-sakto, Linggo ngayon, walang pasok kaya nakakasiguro akong sulit ang pagbabantay ko. Mas mahabang oras, mas exciting at

mas masaya ang paniniktik ko dahil walang pasok. Ano nga ba talagang meron sa kubo na ‘yun? May beerhouse ba doon? Siguro, isang mayamang negosyante si Tiyo Kadyo tapos kinokontrol lang niya yung kubo gamit ang isang virtual world kung saan nagkukumpulan ang mga hunks at mga seksing babae. O baka naman isang mambabarang si Tiyo Kadyo at ginagamitan niya ng psychic powers ang mga bata para makontrol niya at mapasunod niya ang mga ito. O pwede ring isa siyang alien at gumagamit ng mental telepathy at hypnotism para makabuo ng mga kabataang sundalo at sakupin ang buong mundo. O baka naman aswang si Tiyo Kadyo at isa-isang kinakain ang mga batang pumupunta sa kubo niya.

Magdadalawang oras na akong nayayamot sa kinatatayuan ko ngunit wala pa ring mga batang dumarating. Bakit kaya? Nagsawa na ba si Tiyo Kadyo sa mga bata? Mga matatanda naman ba ang gusto niyang bihagin? O baka naman nakaipon na siya ng sapat na sundalo

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Ang misteryo sa likod ng kubo ni Tiyo Kadyo

Ni Jose Mico C. Tambalo

Ang misteryo sa likod ng kubo

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para sakupin ang mundo? Pero kung talagang marami na siyang tauhan, saan naman kaya niya itatago ang mga ito? Hindi naman siguro niya ito maaring itago sa loob ng kubo dahil siguradong hindi sila magkakasya. Ah! Alam ko na! Marahil ay may binuksan si Tiyo Kadyo na portal patungo sa underworld at doon niya tinitipon ang mga sundalo niya. Siguro doo’y nakahanda na ang mga spaceships at batalyon ng mga undead armies niya para sa pag-atake. Paano na lang kung maging undead army ang mga kaibigan ko? Eh wala na palang mag-aaya sa akin upang lumabas at maglaro. Kailangan mailigtas ko ang mga kalaro ko mula sa dark lord na si Tiyo Kadyo!

Kaagad akong nagpaalam kay inay. “Inay, hindi man po ako makakabalik ng buhay ay nais ko pong malaman ninyo na mahal na mahal ko kayo ni itay.” Napakunot-noo si inay. “Noy,

ano na namang likido ang tinira mo?” sabi niya habang nakatingin sa akin. Dali-dali akong lumabas at tinungo ang kubo ni Tiyo Kadyo. Hinabol naman ako ng matalinhagang tingin ni inay na tila ba may nais sabihin ngunit hindi naman masabi.

Dahan-dahan akong lumapit sa kubo habang hawak sa kanang kamay ang dos por dos na kahoy. “Kapag lumabas ang dark lord ay hinding-hindi ko siya pagbibigyan ng pagkakataong mabuhay,” bulong ko sa sarili. Habang papalapit ako nang papalapit sa pinto ay dahan-dahan naman itong bumubukas. May mga kamay na pumipihit sa hawakan, lumalangitngit nang dahan-dahan. Hanggang sa ...

“Sarado internet shop ngayon noy. Balik ka na lang bukas ng umaga at nang masubukan mo yung bago naming RPG at Tower defense game.”

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para sakupin ang mundo? Pero kung talagang marami na siyang tauhan, saan naman kaya

ano na namang likido ang tinira mo?” sabi niya habang nakatingin sa akin. Dali-dali akong

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6

Fragile heart By Mark P. Almelia

You can’t teach a heartWhom to seek and whom to loveThe heart is fragileIt breaks but it doesn’t soundLove carefree but not reckless

You can teach a heartAnd you can learn whom to loveThe heart is fragileBut you can fi x the piecesWhat is left are living scars

7I want to feel the ecstasy of love at its purest...

I want to hold your hands and slip your fi ngers between the empty spaces of my own - knowing when to embrace and when to let go.

I want to caress every inch of your skin, its sultry sensation, tender and warm against mine as we dance with the rhythm of the almost whispering music under the moonlight sonata - oblivious of time and of other people - fearing the idea that I will have to let go when the music stops.

I want to smell the sweet fragrance of your hair, soft and silky. Your face, your eyes and your

lips, so promising, and so close. For a minute or two, we get delirious, crazed in the moment of enchantment, but careful not to get carried away. Oh, they say such is the act of romance. That moment before the kiss...

Doing all of these and not thinking about how much pleasure I could get from your fl esh but how much I care about you. Not how much I want you to be mine alone and fall under my possession, but how much I want you to be within my reach so I could protect you and grow old with you.

And this too, is how I want to be loved - its ecstasy, so innocent, so pure.

Some people tend to pry on things not meant for their eyesSome people tend to thrive from someone’s misery with their liesThey will hunt you ‘til your demiseThey will deceive you to your surpriseJust like the devil or the devil’s brideIn beautiful masks they all hidePlease you with an angel’s smile With all the fl attery and all the guile

Their deception has no exceptionTheir words, the sweetest poisonEver merciless to their targetAs they do their lifelong habit

By Leo Ang

Some people

7

I want to feel the ecstasy of love at its

I want to hold your hands and slip your fi ngers between the empty spaces of my own -

And this too, is how I want to be loved - its ecstasy, so innocent, so pure.

Some people tend to pry on things not meant for their eyesSome people tend to thrive from someone’s misery with their lies

Some peopleSome peopleSome people

The act of romanceBy Meriel V. Robles

8Halos mabingi ako sa tibok ng aking

puso. Dumadagundong ito sa sobrang bilis. Hindi ko ito pinapansin kaya mas todo-ngiti ako kahit ang totoo, nangangawit na ang labi ko. Pinagpapawisan na rin ang aking likod lalo na ang aking kili-kili. Gusto ko na sanang punasan kasi malagkit sa pakiramdam, kaso lahat ng mga mata at kamera ay nakatutok sa akin. Lumingon ako sa kanan at kaliwa. Lahat sila, todo-postura kaya hinigpitan ko pa ang paghawak sa aking beywang at taas-noong inilabas ko mula sa slit ng suot kong evening gown ang mahaba kong biyas. Parang naging slow motion bigla ang paligid nang hawak-hawak na ng host ang pinakahihintay na resulta. “At ang kukoronahang Binibining Pilipinas 2014 ay walang iba kundi si …..” Halos mahimatay ako sa kaba kaya nilakihan ko pa ang aking

ngiti. Sa isip ko, sana hindi nila nahahalata lalo na ng mga hurado na nanginginig na talaga ang ngipin ko at nangangatog na ‘tong tuhod ko.

Mas nilakasan pa ng host ang kanyang boses, “Binibining Pilipinas 2014 ay si candidate no. 15 - Baneng Astanoche!” Agad bumeso-beso ang mga kasamahan kong kandidata. Nabingi na talaga ako hindi dahil sa lakas ng tibok ng dibdib ko kundi dahil sa hiyaw at palakpakan ng maraming tao. Nang ipinatong na ang korona sa ulo ko at binigyan ng isang pumpon ng bulaklak ay mangiyak-ngiyak akong kumaway-kaway sa madla. Pero teka muna, may naririnig yata ako.

“Baaaaaneeeeeng! Ano ka bang bata ka? Umalis ka na nga diyan sa harap ng salamin! Alas singko na nang hapon, gumagabi na, hindi ka pa rin naliligo! Kay dalaga mong tao, maawa ka naman sa sarili mo, maligo ka na!”

8

Ni Aime

IlusyonadaHalos mabingi ako sa tibok ng aking

puso. Dumadagundong ito sa sobrang bilis.

IlusyonadaIlusyonadaIlusyonadaNi Aime

IlusyonadaNi Aime

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10 Sang una ko pa lang nga kita sa imo,nagdasig guid ang dalagan sang heart ko‘Di ko kahulag, tulala kag gaparamula samtang gatulok sa imoAng yuhom mo, amo guid ang nanamian koAno ni nabatyagan ko? Paki-explain nga. Labyu!

‘Di taka mahukas sa pinsar koPuro ngalan mo lang ang nawakal koKag maski sa pagtulog ko,ikaw ang akon ginadamgoAno himuon ko para makita mo man ko?

Temprano pa ako sa Janbipara matyempohan ko ang imo pag-agiGapa-gwapa dun ako kag inspired magtuon permiAdlaw- adlaw gina-stalk ta ka sa FBNaluyag na guid man bala ako sa imoukon crush lang ini?

Gwapa man ako kag bagay guid para sa imoHugot man pagtuo koPero daw wala guid ya tyansaIndi ako crush sang crush ko.

Buhin naman life koHuo, sakit sa heart kay wala pa ganibroken-hearted na ako.‘Pay sige na lang, waay ko may mahimo.Ma move-on na lang akoSakit man paminsaron pero batunon ko.

Tani kun mabasahan mo iniMaglain ang pinsar moKay man ang pagpalangga ko sa imoWala untat, wala preno.

Kun ‘di guid man mangin kamiMangita guid ko paagiLord, patawara akoBasi malumay ko ni nga tawo.

Tama na, kay basi batyagon moJoke lang tanan adtoPati ah! Naluyag ko simoPramis, honesto!

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Just another morning

Buhin naman

By Shenah

Pramis, honesto!

110500H, I drank my coff ee.Every morning’s a rush and I’m used to

it. Drinking coff ee has been my habit since I entered college. I don’t know why but it starts my day right. I always wonder what lies ahead - hoping to be productive in a way. Fifteen minutes before six - and there I go.

0700H, I entered my fi rst subject.Hi there, hello here, good mornings

everywhere. Way to start the day, isn’t it? Okay, a surprise quiz it was. I asked a piece of paper from my seatmate and grouped ourselves into three. I can hear the murmuring discussions of every group. Too bad! We scored one point more than the half of the perfect score. I always think that I’m unlucky after every result in this particular subject - yes, ALWAYS. There I was - making poker face (no emotions on my physique at all) but on the inner part, I am totally stressed.

1400H, I attended the second to the last subject.Yeah, the usual - cleaned the chairs, sat,

paid attention, nodded our heads and acted as if we were listening. The next thing I did was go down the building for a cup of coff ee.

1445H, Another cup - all the way down.I found my way to the school’s cafeteria.

Bought myself a coff ee and there, I began my stupid realizations. More or less, two months left and I’ll be leaving the university for good. The fact that my sacrifi ces in maintaining a good academic standing is now on its danger zone bugged me. This last semester, I failed not once, neither twice nor thrice, but more - more and more to go. Oops! Hell no, I had to cross my

fi ngers and keep the faith within. Down to the last drop and I went back.

2200H, Signing off .Stupid fl ashback came rushing again. You

know that feeling of gently closing your eyes prior to sleeping but something’s knocking on your mind? Maybe I am not that lucky type of man - it seemed as if the odds were against me. (Then I dozed off to sleep.)

0500H, I drank my coff ee.A-not-so-good-morning, I guess. I said

to myself, “This is a brand new day. Whatever happens will happen.” I always believe that no matter how ill-fated things go, at the end of the day, still, God never fails to give you blessings - it’s just that you don’t appreciate any of them. Also, I believe that if it’s for you, it’s really meant for you (in my opinion). The reality that God allows you to live another morning with your family and friends is an example of His unconditional love. I whispered to myself (I’m not crazy though) “Gonna rock the day. Leggo!”

0700H, I entered my fi rst subject.I failed - AGAIN.1900H, I’m homebound.0500H, I drank my coff ee.Hurrah! Another morning to be thankful. 0700H, I entered my fi rst subject and got a high score. HALLELUJIAH!!!1900H, I’m homebound.0500H, I drank my coff ee.

Good morning! Enjoy your day. Again, ENJOY YOUR DAY!

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Just another morningBy Mdpn. Ceejay

0500H, I drank my coff ee.Every morning’s a rush and I’m used to

it. Drinking coff ee has been my habit since I

Just another morningJust another morningJust another morning

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I’m standing here in the alley… empty. My hair blows by the wind’s direction caressing my face and my arms. This moment is just like the other days. My mind is blanketed with white space… nothing on it. It’s like a smooth-textured white canvas waiting to be painted but my head says nothing. Suddenly, my hands started to play on its own. Then it came, simply fl owing on my system like blood in my veins up to my heart, slowly… pumping again and again. It fi nally came – the WORDS.

I started to paint the blue skies with its fl uff y pastel clouds. From a distance, I can see a hill of golden daff odils dancing with the cool breeze. I took a step backwards and heard the tiny rocks rustle. I almost fell. I found myself on a cliff . I turned my head and witnessed the vast

cerulean ocean, and watched as they artistically embrace the sands…

Then darkness came devouring the light. I can see NOTHING. Out of nowhere, little sparks entered the scene gradually revealing the edifi ce of the city. I can see it all from where I stand. I looked above and abruptly felt the chilling sensation when a soft little cotton fell on the tip of my nose. More of it came, like rain in the tropics… tingling my back, so cold and pure. It turned the whole place into a white frosty sanctuary…

The air stopped. I opened my eyes… I’m not a traveler. I’m not an artist. I’m neither wealthy nor an elite. But I could do and feel those things simply by playing with words… I dropped my pen and switched the paper to the next page.

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By iMacInk strokes

I’m standing here in the alley… empty. My hair blows by the wind’s direction caressing

By iMacBy iMacInk strokesInk strokesInk strokes

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13

Jasmine and lilies I’ll never seeAs they dance so beautiful and freeJasmine and lilies I have to bid goodbyeFor winter’s coming and now, you’ll have to die

I wish someday we’ll meet againSometime in Spring, I’ll be 16 by thenI wish not to the stars but to the moonLooking up, hoping you’ll be here soon

Jasmine and lilies, I have something to sayNo matter what it is, promise me you’ll be okayJasmine and lilies, I cannot wait any longerI am very ill said my doctor

Jasmine and lilies, close your eyesGrow beautiful for my momma, hush her criesJasmine and lilies I have to bid goodbyeBecause now I’ll be the one to die

Jasmine and LiliesBy Meriel V. Robles

14 Habang ako’y nasa malayo, pilit kong inaalala ang lasa ng luto ni Inay. Kahit nasaan man at kahit iba’t-ibang putahe na ang naihain sa aking harapan, wala pa ring makakatalo sa luto ni Inay. Ang kanyang malinamnam na sarsa na tamang-tama ang timpla ay patok sa aking panlasa, at siguradong ‘pag natikman ng iba’y matatakam sila kahit sila’y busog na busog pa.

Naaalala ko pa noong kaarawan ng aking kuya at nagluto ang Inay ng masarap na afritada. Lahat sila ay namangha at nagsabing “Sauce pa lang, ulam na!” Talagang matalinhaga itong mga luto ni Inay. Ano kaya ang sikreto niya? Maraming tao ang nagsasabing may kakaibang inihahalo raw ang Inay sa kanyang mga putahe kaya’t ganun na lamang kasarap ang mga ito. Sabi naman ng iba, may gayuma raw ang luto niya kaya’t hindi mapigilang kumain ang mga nakakatikim nito. Dahil dito, mas marami pang tanong ang naipon sa aking isipan.

Nang ako ay makauwi sa aming tahanan mula sa mahabang paglalakbay, agad akong ipinaghain ng mainit na kanin at siyempre, isang putahe ni Inay. Dahil sa gutom, agad akong sumandok ng kanin ngunit ang mga kamay ko’y pinalo ni Inay at sabay sabing “Wash your hands and pray before you eat,” kaya’t dagli akong naghugas ng kamay alinsunod sa Happy Birthday Method ng

DOH at siyempre, gamit ang sabong may skin germ protection, saka nagpasalamat sa Poong Maykapal. Ngumiti ang Inay at iniabot ang putahe na agad ko namang sinunggaban. Lasap na lasap ko ang linamnam ng iba’t-ibang klase ng sangkap sa bawat kagat. Napasarap ang aking kain na hindi ko man lang namalayang naubos ko na ang isang kalderong adobo na luto ni Inay. Kaya’t ako ay nagtaka, totoo kayang may inihahalo ang Inay sa kanyang mga lutuin? Ano kaya ito?

Dahil sa aking matinding kuryusidad, itinanong ko kay Inay kung ano ang sikreto ng mga putahe niya. Siya ay ngumiti at nagsabing “Mas magandang hindi mo alam anak,” ngunit ako ay nagpumilit kaya’t dinala niya ako sa aming kusina. Bago pa kami makapasok ay tinanong niya ako “Handa ka na ba anak? Handa ka na bang malaman ang aking sikreto?” Ako’y napatango na lamang at napalunok ng laway. Agad kaming nagtungo sa loob ng aming kusina at doo’y merong isang maliit na aparador. Unti-unti niyang pinihit ang pintuan nito. Ako ay nasindak sa aking nakita! Lumantad sa aking mga mata ang pake-pakete ng samo’t saring pampalasa! Tumingin sa akin ang aking Inay at tumawa sabay sabing, “Ang mga ito at ang pagmamahal ko ang sikreto ko sa aking mga lutuin.” Sa aking kahihiyan ay hinagkan ko na lamang siya at nagtawanan kaming dalawa.

Habang ako’y nasa malayo, pilit kong inaalala ang lasa ng luto ni Inay. Kahit nasaan

14

Ni KayEdito

Putahe ni Inay

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I sensed it that very day. It sent pulses that forced my heart to pump at such a high rate. A strong pressure was then felt by my blood and its rapid fl ow turned me into a new being. It was like winning a fi erce battle – a war that will decide not only my destiny but my future itself that will soon give rise into a new beginning.

If you have ever felt the same, then we are on the same stage. Experiencing this is more than fascination or hallucination caused by drugs. This is more intense, beyond what you thought was possible, for it will surely leave your mind afl oat. Free. High. Berserk.

Being in this state is a rare one, for before you attain this, you must fi rst need to reach the peak of success. Soon contentment…No, but rather the overwhelming feeling that will last as long as you remember that day. That very day when you stood to be unstoppable.

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Overwhelming effect By Utgard

17Sang Lunes lang kami nagkilalahay,nabastosan pa ako kay ako iya ginsitsitan.

‘Pay sang siya ga-text kag gatawag nga wala patay,didto ko nadiskubrehan, maayo man gali iya pamatasan.

Martes sang nag-upod kami panyaga,Galante guid! Sa restaurant niya ako gindala.

Ginsabat ko siya dayon sang wala pag duha-duha.Miyerkules kag Huwebes, upod kami puli nga duwa.

Sang Biyernes ginhulat ko siya kag ako natingala!May guinahungit-hungit to siya nga babayi sa karinderya!Siya pa nangakig sang ginsukmaan ko Sabado sang gab-i

Kag pagka-aga sang Domingo, wala na kami.

‘Pay sang siya ga-text kag gatawag nga wala patay,didto ko nadiskubrehan, maayo man gali iya pamatasan.

Martes sang nag-upod kami panyaga,Galante guid! Sa restaurant niya ako gindala.

Ginsabat ko siya dayon sang wala pag duha-duha.Miyerkules kag Huwebes, upod kami puli nga duwa.

Sang Biyernes ginhulat ko siya kag ako natingala!May guinahungit-hungit to siya nga babayi sa karinderya!Siya pa nangakig sang ginsukmaan ko Sabado sang gab-i

Kag pagka-aga sang Domingo, wala na kami.

17

Overwhelming effect By Utgard

Sa isa ka semanaNi Anjieera Francisco

18 Weird ka sang una ta ka nakilalaMahinay ang tingog kag mahuluyaon paIndi ka palakadlaw kag pala-istorya“Loner na siya,” hambal sang iba.

Pero naglawig ang klase kag nagbag-o ka naMay isa ka miga nga dira permi para sa iyaAy hala! Anu natabo kana?Wakalan na, para-joke pa!

Natingala ako kang ako gin-sapak nila“Uyy! ghurl, kilala mu na siya? Ka-gwapo bala.Natingala guid ako sang naman-an ko ga ‘muna man gali silaAbi ko, wala na sa isip nila.

Hiposon na sila kung sa klasePalatuon kag matutom nga mga babayiMaalam kag mabuot kuno abiMay pagkadungol man, indi lang pag seryosohi.

Ambot, ano may ara sa ila nga nasadyahan ko kung sila upod ko.Tambay sa hallway kag bantay sang pakadto di, pakadto ‘to Siguro pareho kami mahilig sa lakiMang-stalk kag mangita gwapo ang ubra namon permi.

Sa ‘muna nga bagay dira kami gaintyendihanayGa-enjoy kami, waay patay istoryahanayWala kami gabulag maski diin kami makadtoKasal, bunyag, lubong, ilabi na guid sa disko.

Amuna ang akon mga amegaTralala man kung kaisa pero palangga ko na sila.Ano man hambalon niyo sa ila, teh anu?Kay ‘muni kami ya! Ang masabat, balda!

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AmegaNi Iska

19Robust in body, deep fl avor, bursting

aroma and gentle acidity. Medium roast coff ee is the most well balanced of all roasts. It has good body, lowered acidity, complex aroma, integrated, elegant, and charismatic, with average levels of bitterness.

Medium RoastRobust in body, deep fl avor, bursting

aroma and gentle acidity. Medium roast coff ee is the most well balanced of all roasts. It has good body, lowered acidity, complex aroma, integrated, elegant, and charismatic, with average levels of bitterness.

19

20 “You’re destined to meet your special someone. Today, she’ll smile at you, talk to you, and share the same table with you. Her name is a blessing from heaven. Sound of trumpets, clear soul, white clothes and feathers.”

These were the words that kept on bugging my mind as I sat on the bench of the most popular coff ee shop in the whole world. It’s six ‘o clock in the morning. I was watching the sun rose from the horizon as its rays touched my skin with the gentle cold breeze from the beach owned by the most popular matinee idol and actor, Josh, and the coff ee shop owned by the most elusive bachelor and businessman, Jave. What a wonderful place matched with a wonderful name “Seagull”.

“Excuse me? Do you mind if I share the table with you?” That’s when my thoughts were interrupted by a beautiful woman standing right next to me. I was stunned. The only word I muttered in my mouth was, “No, I don’t mind.” She smiled and sat in front of me sharing the perfect spot and the perfect moment that no one ever prepared me to experience.

We talked a lot of things. When I summoned all the courage I had to open up about my destiny, the waitress arrived in our table with our orders. I looked at the waitress as she gracefully put our orders. “Is there anything you want to add, Sir?” I shook my head for an answer. The waitress returned to her quarters as we drank our coff ee.

As I fi nished drinking my coff ee with this beautiful woman in front of me, I told her about my destiny.

“It’s a silly thing but a wonderful one. It doesn’t mean that when we reach the time when we’re already grown-ups, we stop thinking and believing in our destinies or fairytales. Sometimes, thinking about these things can give us assurance that someday, somehow, our lives will end just like those stories in the fairytales,” she said. I smiled at her on how she appreciated and understood me. “Sometimes, we have to allow life to take its course. You just need to wait and let your heart enjoy the good times, set aside the bad times and learn from it. Grow it fondly because it is the one that will guide you to your destiny,” she added. I was hesitant to ask for her name at fi rst but I had to do it. A moment of silence came. I waited and she said, “Veronica”.

It’s time for me to leave the place. I rode at the speed boat in which the driver was also an employee from the resort. I turned to see the resort again when the driver shouted, “Agape, the owners will arrive soon!” I looked at the person he was shouting at. It was the waitress that took our orders. I remembered the way how she smiled at me and shared the table by putting my drink.

Destiny…Agape…a name straight from heaven.

What a perfect place for a man like me.

“You’re destined to meet your special someone. Today, she’ll smile at you, talk to you, and share the same table with you. Her name

20

SeagullBy Noname

21

21

22 Feeling ashore Queries unknownSighs have grownFrom now and on

Whisper me by my ears Give me a kiss

Hug me this tight Keep me on sight

Every moment I miss youI keep thinking and wondering

Why is my heart lonely?I’m patiently waiting for you

Now, I’ve come to realizeI’m still in love with you.

Forgive me.Please come back to me.

Her long, dark, and shiny hair blown by the wind captivated my every sense. Her eyes sparkled, refl ecting the magnifi cence of God’s creation. It possessed me. As if a powerful spell was casted upon me that only she can break. Her fragility pushed me to keep on following her so I could be assured that she’s all right. Her glasses made her more gorgeous despite her great eff orts to conceal it. I was in love with her. That four-eyed girl.

She was the reason why I put all my best eff orts into everything that I did. The one who motivated me not to give up whenever I was

feeling down. She was the person whom I trusted the most with all the secrets that I had. The music that calmed my soul, with the whispered promises of eternal love. I am in love with her. I was... I used to...

I didn’t want to cry but she gave me unbearable grief inside that I could no longer contain. I have lost what I never had. She was never mine - that four-eyed girl. I just want to be with her but she was never real, and she’s not mine. But still, I am in love with her.

But she’s just a part of my imagination. The girl of my dreams. Nothing more than that.

Feeling ashore Queries unknownSighs have grownFrom now and on

Her long, dark, and shiny hair blown by the wind captivated my every sense. Her eyes sparkled, refl ecting the magnifi cence of God’s

22

Unrequited loveBy iska

DementiaBy vincentLagz.

23I have to admit to myself - I am falling in love. But wait! Before you continue reading along the words, I assure you that THIS IS NOT A LOVE STORY! Believe me when I say that this isn’t what you think it is. You may think that this is a typical love story you usually see just by reading the fi rst few words but I’m telling you, your hypothalamus gland is just tricking you. Again, for the nth time, THIS IS NOT A LOVE STORY, my dear. Okay - let’s move on.

And yes! I am near to believing that I am indeed, starting to fall in love. (This is not a love story!) I don’t know why but it seems like I am willing to be human on that sense. I am willing to make myself vulnerable to whatever harsh things there might be on the lands where the muggles dwell. I hate it but I’m willing to have weaknesses. It’s not like I don’t have weaknesses, but let’s take Superman as an example. His main weakness isn’t kryptonites

and stuff . His main weakness is the woman he loves. He can endure the whole kryptonite thing, but not his “girlfriend”. And I am like in that kind of situation. It’s funny, I know.

I said it’s funny, but you don’t have my permission to laugh at it. Thanks.

And yes, I’m starting to fall in love. Maybe, there’s just something diff erent with her smiles. Or how long her hair is. Or the way she talks to me. Or the manner she tells me that she doesn’t miss me. Or the words she use during our exchange of text messages. I just love how grumpy she is at times I least expect. I don’t know. I’ll never know. And this is not a love story.

Okay. It’s offi cial - I’m in love.

(I told you that wasn’t a love story...)

23

This is not a love story Part II

By BogartSDL

24Nagbahaw na ang kape sa lamesita,Wala man guihapon natapos ang amon istorya,Sang mga nagkalatabo sa amon halin sang una,Pamangkuta lang ko, kay dumduman ko pa.Ari bala, istoryahan ta ka.

Ini nag-umpisa,Sang ako ang sa imo nagpakilala.Ikaw guid nadala,Sa joke-joke ko kag bola-bola.Pati, joke lang ah!Kay ikaw akon guid matuod nga ginahigugma.

Kita wala guid nag-away,Bisan ano ka daku nga problema, wala guid nagbulagay,Kay kita gaintyendihanay.Bal-an naton nga ang tanan nga bagay,Madala guid sa maayo nga istoryahanay.

Pagkatapos sang kasal ta,ginpamangkot ta ka,“Pila imo gusto nga bata?”

Siling mo “Lima.”Pero akon gusto, isa ka dosena.

Manami guid pamatian sa dalunggan ko,Nga ang amon mga apo,Ginatawag kami, “Lola” kag “Lolo”Maayo guid kay kami ila ginarespeto.Abaw! Tigulang na guid kami kaayo.

Asta nga nagtululubo ang amon mga bukay,Kami guihapon ang nagapalangga-anay.Kay kami nagsumpa-anay, “Sa kabudlay kag katawhay, Sa kasakit kag kalipay, Kita maga-updanay.”

O, pinalangga ko nga Inday,Para sa akon, ikaw guid ang pinakamatahum nga lin-ay.Ikaw ang babayi nga wala kaangay,wala guid sang makatupong sa akon kalipayAsta sa katubtuban, kita maga-updanay.

Nagbahaw na ang kape sa lamesita,Wala man guihapon natapos ang amon istorya,

24

Ang matuod nga gugmaNi Mdpn. Jan Paul M. Panes

25

25

26 I like her and so does she…She gives me a feeling that I myself can’t even explain.And yes, we entered the wrong gate of love.

I am taken and so is she…The truth that tried to destroy us.Sorry, but it kept us going.

I am single and so is she…Now, we’re armored to take the risk.‘Coz it was love that kept pushing us.

I am in a relationship and so is she…Sacrifi ces were all paid off .A mutual self-fulfi llment it was.

I am genuinely in love with her and so is she…We waited to death for this moment to arrive.We’re now free to traverse every boundary.

I’m hoping for a forever and so is she…I am keeping my fi ngers crossed and so is she…I want her to be my last and so is she…

I like her and so does she…She gives me a feeling that I myself can’t even explain.And yes, we entered the wrong gate of love.

26

And so does sheBy Christian Jave Pagayon

In the process of unloving youBy Mdpn. Ceejay

27The email goes…

August 4, 2014Port of Incheon, Seoul, South Korea

Dear Ex,We’re on anchorage. Just a few more

minutes and we’ll be strolling South Korea. This time, I have the courage to mail you back after that heart-breaking message of yours. Honestly, I don’t know how to react on that. You know, I hurt myself too much for being stupid, for being foolish, and for being mistreated. It’s sad to realize that I haven’t received any single mail from you for almost fi ve months - only to fi nd out that you’re in a relationship with someone else. Everything happened so quickly which I couldn’t understand until now. Why? What’s wrong? Was it because I trusted you so much or what?

So then, I realized how hard it is to be a seafarer - apprehending how far by miles I am away from you. I used to believe that distance is not a big deal. I was wrong. You know I’ve always been faithful - I never cheated on you.

And there I go again, with my questions… WHY? Gradually, I am helping myself to understand the things that move beyond my control for I might go insane here if I take it gravely.

Losing you is such a hard truth to accept. But since it’s already a fact, I don’t have any other choice but to accept it. I may sound stupid if I say it’s easy for me to forget you though I’m certain that time can do so. I’m telling you, those moments with you are worth keeping. We both had fun, right? Aaah, those moments…

Anyway, I believe that there’s someone else fated for me out there who deserves my love and deserves to be loved. Thank you for inspiring me even in a short time. Eight month’s not bad. How I wish that every seafarer wouldn’t go through this situation.

Gonna grab some coff ee, honey (I mean, ex honey) to cool myself down. I wish you good luck and happiness. I’m not ready to see you yet. And hey, as far as my feeling is concerned, I am now in the process of unloving you.

Sincerely,

CJ

And there I go again, with my questions… WHY? Gradually, I am helping myself to understand

27

In the process of unloving youBy Mdpn. Ceejay

28We always believed that the world is fi lled

with fairytales…fi lled with magic…fi lled with princes and princesses…fi lled with terrifying dragons that guard magical castles…fi lled with happy endings. A happy ending that we think is the answer to the most baffl ing question there ever was – “What is my purpose in life?” Truth is – Fairytales never exist.

Then there came the fortune-tellers from whose ever Chinese dynasty they may have come from. I fi nd them funny with all their cards and Feng Shui accessories and all. Another thing is the “Bahala na si Batman” thing. I mean, seriously, how can a fi ctional caped crusader-slash-millionaire guy dictate our destiny? The path we take? The haircut we choose? The

course we take in college? The decisions we make and the risks we gamble upon? I mean, SERIOUSLY?!

What the stars never wanted to tell us is that – we are powerful enough to dictate our own fate. Sure, God may have already written our destinies but what’s written on God’s diary depends on our decisions. We are powerful enough to create another path from our monotonous daily routines. We are powerful enough, BUT WE ARE NOT GODS AND GODDESSES.

What the stars never wanted to tell us all this time – they merely are stars.

Good day.

28

What the stars never wanted to tell us…

By BogartSDL

29

29

30 “There’s a favor I want to ask from you.”“Yes? What is it?”“I want you to be my star.”

*****There was this girl who used to be my

friend, mother, and the person I secretly admire. I can still remember her smiles, dazzling eyes, crimson lips, and attractive beautiful face.

It has been 20 long years but all those things still remain vivid to me. How we met was history and we spent the most wonderful days of our lives together. The dates, the moments, and every word we spoke to each other are still fresh to me.

I was sitting alone at the hallway when I fi rst saw her. Everything turned out magical, the time stopped, my heart roared like thunder, and a thousand butterfl ies triumphed over my stomach. That day started the passionate story between the two of us. I started to secretly stalk her, know her name, and I treaded on an epic journey of getting-to-know-her. Time has passed and I haven’t been able to make a single move to be close to her. I started to change my scrutiny and refl ected on forgetting this gritty imagination of mine. Luckily, one of my friends who happened to be a friend of hers as well told me what her name is – Miranda, that is.

December 18, 2013, 5:55 PM. I had my fi rst conversation with Miranda. She’s cool to talk to even with strangers like me. She was so great that most of the time that I spend with her were full of laughter and crazy things. I and Miranda became friends and that opened the opportunity for me to know more about her. Time passed so quickly that I’ve almost known every single detail about her. Unknowingly, I

was starting to fall in love with her.It was late at night when I confessed my

feelings for her. At fi rst, I was afraid that it may end our friendship but I still insisted and told her, that was the best thing for me to do. I was fascinated with her answer. She already knew how I feel for her and that she was only waiting for me to admit it. Ever since that night, our friendship grew even stronger.

The same picture of laughters, jokes, crazy behaviors, and food trips happened for the next two years with her. We never became lovers but we remained good friends. As what they say, “Friendship is the most imminent relationship you’ll ever have.” Despite what happened, I am still happy having Miranda in my life. And if I could only go back to the time when we were still strangers, I’d still choose to have her as my crazy friend.

March 25, 2016 was the last time I saw Miranda; I will be onboard to continue my profession as a seafarer. It was hard for me to be away from her for every minute that I wasn’t with her is killing me. Months and years have passed without receiving any letter, text or email from her. I thought that she already forgot about me and the memories we had. That very moment, I was staring at the night sky reminiscing the past when I felt someone was shaking me.

“Honey, wake up,” she said.As I opened my eyes, all I could see was

the picture of that beautiful lady I have always adored. It was Miranda, my beautiful wife, my star.

“There’s a favor I want to ask from you.”“Yes? What is it?”“I want you to be my star.”

30

Just like the starsBy Tetsu

31“Hello, where are you? I’ve been waiting

for you here like decades already!”“Calm down, Anne. I’ll be there in a

minute.”

* * * * * * * * * *

Anne and Ralph have been best of friends since childhood. They treat one another as if they were born of the same lineage. As years passed by, Anne turned sixteen years old. Her feelings for her pal altered; it went beyond the boundary of just being friends. Butterfl ies keep fl ying on her stomach whenever she is with him. The only thing that could explain what she feels is – LOVE. Yes, Anne has fallen in love with her long-time pal. However, she is afraid to tell him what she feels in a sense that this would simply ruin the precious thing between them — their friendship.

Until one afternoon...“I love you... I love you, bestfriend... and I

love you more than just a friend.”Ralph felt uneasy and inquisitive of what

his pal was saying. Yes, he loves her but only as a friend.

“Our friendship might not last once we

put ourselves into a relationship. If we become lovers, there is a possibility that when we encounter misunderstandings, we might break up and end up treating one another as strangers. I don’t want our friendship to end.”

Those words tore Anne’s heart. Tears shed off from her sparkling eyes, and it hurts so much for her to know that her pal cannot love her the way she wanted to. But what hurts more is...

“I’m in love with Stephen and we have been dating for two months,” Ralph replied.

Even if it hurts her that much, she had nothing else to do but to accept the truth.

* * * * * * * * * *

“Sorry to keep you waiting Anne. So, what am I going to do: curl, braid or just tie this up with a ponytail?”

“Anything that suits me but I think a braid will do. Yes braid, hurry up or I might come late for work.”

“Hello, where are you? I’ve been waiting for you here like decades already!”

“Calm down, Anne. I’ll be there in a minute.”

put ourselves into a relationship. If we become lovers, there is a possibility that when we encounter misunderstandings, we might break up and end up treating one another as strangers.

put ourselves into a relationship. If we become lovers, there is a possibility that when we encounter misunderstandings, we might break up and end up treating one another as strangers.

31

BraidBy Lynlyn

32 After a few shots and poses, I fi nally picked my profi le picture that, with no single conceit, will surely fl ood with “likes”. So odd, that brought an impish grin the moment I glanced at the refl ection on the mirror. They think I’m perfect especially the gals at school who prey their eyes green with envy whenever I pass by the hallway. Undeniably, I am a fi rst-rate profi le at our university, that’s why. All I desire to have are given to me even without me asking for them. Why not? I’m the only daughter of a pretty woman married to a business tycoon. Pampered, maybe but I have to nod to a candid idea, I deserved it.

September 1, 2010The invitations were sent. Our home was

turned to an impeccable evening gala. Guests of high social ranks, business partners of my father and family friends paraded, men in their suits escorting ladies dressed elegantly. I also saw my classmates catching a moment to take group pictures. They all came to celebrate with me, my grand 14th birthday party but I was too apathetic because someone’s missing. Dad was out of town.

“Happy birthday Ella! You’re so beautiful sweetie.” I was lost in reverie and realized someone greeted me. How long did she pause to wait for my response, I thought. I fl ashed a quick wry smile although I didn’t recognized who the woman was.

The night fi nally took its end. Exchanging phony smiles with people really exhausted me so I went to our dining hall to get myself something cold to drink. When I heard Tita Christy talking to Mom, I stopped briefl y. It was unusual for me to listen to other’s conversation but it semed as if they’re arguing.

“Don’t you know that your daughter embarrassed my friend?! She must be grateful for living such a life instead of growing up in the slums. You even throw a big party for her. Look, your ADOPTED child has now turned into a brat! You’re spoiling her so much.”

*********

That was a memory long forgotten yet, still haunts me. This life they thought is perfect was never been mine. They must be laughing at me now if they only learned the truth. I’m living a life of lies. Now, I understand. Whenever I stare at my parents’ pictures in my locket that Dad had given me, I see no traces of resemblances. My doubts did not fail me. But then, what’s more painful than knowing the truth for a long time yet still pretending to know nothing?

The driver had started the car and I’m leaving for school. I slid myself at the backseat and as I stared back at the mansion so grand with the gardens landscaped beautifully, I thought, I am no diff erent than those homeless people on the streets; this was never a real home to me.

After a few shots and poses, I fi nally picked my profi le picture that, with no single conceit, will surely fl ood with “likes”. So odd, that

32

14th birthdayBy Aime

33Have you ever thought of how much time

you have left? Like having a lifemeter. It would take some time to come up with the thought of that, a lifemeter, quite brilliant. But Ghandi and Paulo Coehlo, they lived a life completely understanding that sooner or later, they must leave.

42 minutes (17%) remainingCan you imagine how much time you must

have wasted doing nothing? How much time you spent battling the thought whether to do or not to do it? By the time you decided to do so, there’s not much time left, so you start to feel sorry. Oh, how precious time is, you will fi nally realize.

But you only have 35 minutes (14%) remainingYou spent those precious amounts of time

with hesitations and fear, often making more mistakes - doubting even more if you should do or not do what you are supposed to do. In a second or two, you will realize how much time you have wasted fi ghting a battle you will never

win. It pains you to have come to this point of no return to fi nally see how much time you once had. You were given more than enough chances to make something good, something great - but you didn’t. So you wish that time will turn into something you can hold. Like those sands in an hourglass, then you will have the power to turn it upside down or simply put a fi nger on the hole so that it would eventually stop.

Running lowNow, you feel your insides palpitating.

Your insides. Oh, yes, you have them. You feel your blood rushing through your veins, your heart drumming like never before. You feel your stomach churning. You never imagined how someone could swallow a butterfl y, but you feel it - right at the pit of your belly. Then there goes the warning sign with an exclamation mark inside a yellow triangle - 20 minutes (10%) remaining time. Your hands grow sweaty and cold. You are almost at the end of it, and then you die. Just like that.

win. It pains you to have come to this point of

33

45 minutes (19%) remaining

By Meriel V. Robles

34

You’re with me when I make mountains out of molehills.You share my dreams. You know my faults.

You know most of my fears.And when life hurts me the most, you’re always there.

You listen to me when I need to talk and you talk when I need to listen.

You’re happy for me when I need someone to share my joy with.

You give me a shoulder when you know I need to cry.And when life hurts me the most, you’re always there.

You know what makes me happy and sad.You’ve seen me make mistakes and you’ve seen me beg

for forgiveness.You’ve seen life treat me right and you’ve seen life treat

me wrong.And when life hurts me the most, you’re always there.

An angel’s griefBy Leo Ang

You were one to be held precious,You were one to be held dear,But my love was proven treacherous,My misgivings crystal clear,

Like the winter’s heat and the summer’s cold,I felt like dying when I was told,That you were lost while I was home,That you were broken while I was whole.

And I feel so guilty when I think of you,Life is so fragile and so are you.I wasn’t there when you needed someone,I wasn’t there and now you’re gone.

All these have come unto an end,The saddest things I cannot mend,With deep wounds I can’t undo,I’ll never get the chance to love you.

An angel’s griefAn angel’s grief,

When life hurts me the most

Mdpwn. Daishel A. Balsomo

34

35Often described as fully embraceable and

invigorating, with smoky aromatic tones. This is a fully satisfying coff ee experience. The dark roast coff ee is the least bright and most bitter.

Dark RoastOften described as fully embraceable and

invigorating, with smoky aromatic tones. This is a fully satisfying coff ee experience. The dark roast coff ee is the least bright and most bitter.

35

36 May-ari ng isang coff ee shop sa Masbate ang aking Tiya. ‘Pag umuuwi ako sa amin, mahilig akong tumambay sa kanilang shop. Minsan, tumutulong ako sa kanila lalo na kung marami silang kustomer at kapalit nito ay libreng merienda.

Isang araw, habang abala ang lahat sa napakaraming kustomer na dumarating, bigla kong natapunan ng kape ang isang magandang dilag. Siya ay mayroong mala-gatas na balat, na parang hindi nasisikatan ng araw. Hanggang balakang ang haba ng buhok na nagniningning sa tuwing tinatamaan ng liwanag ng araw. Mala-diyosa ang kanyang kagandahan na halos tumulo ang aking laway sa kanyang alindog.

Hiyang-hiya ako sa aking nagawa. Muntik ko nang masira ang kanyang mala-porselanang balat. Mabuti na lang at cold coff ee ang natapon ko.

Habang nasa loob siya ng C.R. upang magpalit ng damit, nandoon naman ako sa labas upang humingi ng paumanhin.

“Ako na lang ang maglalaba ng damit mo. Ibabalik ko na lang ang damit mo sakaling bumalik ka,” pahayag ko subalit galit na mukha niya ang kanyang naging sagot.

Mahigit isang linggo ang aking paghihintay para ibalik ang kanyang damit at naisip ko na baka nakalimutan na niya ito. Pero makalipas

ang ilang minuto ay dumating siya. Hinintay ko muna siyang maupo sa mesa. Pagkaupo niya, agad akong lumapit sa kanya at ibinigay ang paper bag kung saan nakapaloob ang damit niya.

“Hi! Excuse me miss, heto na pala ang damit mo at sorry sa nangyari noong nakaraang Linggo,” pambungad ko sa kanya. Ngunit tanging ngiti lang ang nakita ko sa kanyang maamong mukha.

Nag-order lang siya at pagkatapos ay umuwi. Ngunit bago siya umalis, tinanong ko muna ang kanyang pangalan at hiningi ang kanyang cellphone number.

Hindi magkamayaw ang aking damdamin nang mga oras na iyon. Pakiramdam ko ay lumulutang ako sa hangin!

Subalit nang ngumiti siya at binigay ang kanyang pangalan at cellphone number, parang nabunutan ako ng tinik nang marinig ko ang kanyang pangalan. Claire Madrigal. Labis ang aking kaligayahan at halos magtatalon ako sa tuwa.

Nang makauwi na ako ng bahay ay agad ko siyang tinext at agad naman siyang nag-reply. Sa gabi ding iyon, magdamag kaming nag-usap at doon nagsimula ang aming magandang kuwento.

May-ari ng isang ang aking Tiya. ‘Pag umuuwi ako sa amin,

Ang kapeng nataponNi Olegna P. Asagar

36

37Ang kapeng nataponNi Olegna P. Asagar

37

38 Nagsimula kami bilang magkaibigan hanggang sa nagka-ibigan. Hindi ko na maalala ang kumpletong detalye, basta bigla na lang siyang dumating sa buhay ko. ‘Nung una, pinsan niya talaga ang gusto ko, si Princess, ang “crush ng bayan”. Unang tingin ko pa lang sa kanya ay nakaramdam na ako ng matinding kabog sa dibdib. ‘Yun bang tinatawag nilang “love at fi rst sight”. Palibhasa, nasa murang edad pa lamang ay nahulog kaagad ang loob ko sa kanya. Ito na yata ‘yung naririnig kong “First love”.

Patay na patay ako kay Princess. Noong una, akala ko hanggang tingin na lang ako sa kanya. Nagbago ang lahat nang dumating si Anne, transferee galing sa Maynila at pinsan ni Princess. Agad ko siyang kinilala at kinaibigan at dahil sa kanya ay naging magkalapit kami ni Princess.

Naging mas malapit pa kami ni Princess nang lagi na akong isinasama ni Anne sa tuwing kakain sila ng tanghalian. Sumasabay na rin ako sa kanila ‘pag uwian. Minsan, niyayaya nila akong mag-review sa bahay nina Anne. Mas nagkamabutihan pa kami ni Princess nang sumali sa isang dance competition si Anne. Dahil madalas siyang ginagabi sa tuwing may praktis, hinihintay namin siyang dalawa ni Princess. Sa mga panahong ‘yun, nagkaroon ako ng lakas ng loob upang ligawan si Princess.

Ilang beses din akong nagtangkang

magtapat ng nararamdaman ko kay Princess ngunit meron laging bumabalakid sa tuwing sinusubukan ko. Kaya’t humingi ako ng tulong kay Anne at siya na ang gumawa ng paraan upang magkausap kami ni Princess nang pribado at masinsinan.

Sa isang beach resort ipinagdiwang ang victory party ni Anne. Pinapunta niya ako sa isang cottage kung saan naghihintay si Princess. Agad kong tinungo ang cottage, at nang makita ko si Princess ay nagtapat kaagad ako ng aking damdamin. Tumawa siya at humingi ng paumanhin. Sa mga sinabi niya, pakiramdam ko’y dinukot niya ang inosente kong puso at piniga-piga na parang stress ball tapos inilagay sa blender - wasak na wasak ako sa mga panahong iyon.

Sobra akong nasaktan. Sa unang pagkakataon, naging broken-hearted ako. Ilang araw ding hindi ko sila nilapitan, hanggang sa kinausap ako ni Anne at dinamayan. Dahil sa kanya, unti-unting nabuo ang nadurog kong puso at tinulungan niya akong maka-move on. Tinuruan niya akong magmahal muli at pinasaya ang bawat araw ko. Lumipas pa ang panahon at dahan-dahang nabuo ang aming pag-iibigan hanggang sa dininig niya ang sigaw ng aking puso at tinanggap ako bilang kanyang nobyo.

Nagsimula kami bilang magkaibigan hanggang sa nagka-ibigan. Hindi ko na maalala

ReboundNi Alog

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39Tuman na kadulom sang kagab-ihon apang nalingaw man kami sa guihapon kahampang sang panagu-ay sa isa ka bakante nga lote upod ang akon mga amigo. Matugnaw ang dapya sang hangin kag ang kasanag sang bulan ang nagahatag suga kag nagagiya sa amon paghampang.

Dali-dali nga nagpanago ang tanan sang ako na ang taya. Madulom ang palibot kag ang huni sang sirom-sirom lang ang imo mabatian nga nagadugang pa guid sang kamingaw sang kagab-ihon. Sang hana ko na sila pangitaon, isa ka hitabo ang nagkibot sa amon tanan.

“Botchok, ara na ang tiktik! Puli na kamu!” singgit ni Nanay samtang ginabitbit si toto.

“Aaaahhhhhhh! Ara na siya! Ara na ang tiktik!”

Nagkalatal-as kami tanan kag ginpaspasan ko guid ang pagdalagan sa tuman ka kulba. Ginbilin ko nalang gani ang tsinelas ko nga dragon nga ginsab-it ko sa puno sang bayabas sa sobra nga kahadlok sa tiktik nga ginahambal nila. Gahapo-hapo ako pag-abot sa balay kag naabtan ko si Nanay sa tubang pwertahan nga daw akig guid nga nagatulok sa madulom nga kalsada. Nangurombot ako sang habol kag nagpasiplat sa giha sang dingding nga naga-atubang sa madulom nga parte sang dalan.

Isa ka babaye nga nagaguyod sang karbaw ang akon nakita. Malaba ang iya buhok kag naga-igrab ang iya mga mata.

“Nay, si Tiyay Linda man na ‘Nay!”

“Botchok, nugay ka gani palapit na sa iya ha.”

“Ngaa man ‘Nay haw?”“Tiktik na siya nga daan. Likawan mo ang

babayi nga ‘na kay tuman guid na katalom sang iya dila,” hambal ni Nanay nga daw gina high blood guid sang kaakig. Daw indi guid ako katulog sang guinhambal ni Nanay. Bantog guid si Tiyay Linda nga tiktik sa amon barangay kag damo na siya may guinperwisyo nga tawo. Apang indi man ako guihapon kahangop sa ila.

Guinhulid ko guid ang bread knife nga akon guinbaid kag guin-pugaan sang suha kag katumbal nga kutitot. Ako lang isa sa kwarto nagtulog. Si Nanay kag Tatay ara sa pihak nga kwarto nagabantay kay toto. Mahamuok na ang akon pagtulog sang may naglagpok sa babaw atop. Gulpi nga nagtindog ang akon balahibo nga daw eksena sa mga horror movies.

“Tiyay, ikaw na tiyay?” Ay abaw nag-uwang pa guid ang mga ido.

“Tiyay, indi lang ko pag-anha tiyay kay i-unfriend ta guid ka sa Facebook!” Nagkulas pa guid ang babaw sang amun atop nga daw ginakaros sang matalom nga kuko. Nangurumbot na lang ako sa kahadlok kag nag-umpisa mangamuyo.

Nagabutlak na ang adlaw sang nakabugtaw ako. Dali-dali ako nagkadto sa kusina kag ginpangita si Nanay. “Nay, guin-aswang ako ni Tiyay Linda kagab-i!” Utoy-utoy nga nagkadlaw si Nanay sang guinhambal ko sa

“Botchok, nugay ka gani palapit na sa iya

ReboundNi Alog

Tiyay LindaNi Josh

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40

iya. Daw indi sila magpati sa akon guinhambal. Pero gapati guid ako nga si Tiyay Linda guid to ang aswang kay siya lang man ang bantog nga tiktik sa amon lugar.

Gusto ko guid pamatud-an sa akon ginikanan nga guin-aswang ako ni Tiyay Linda. Amo na nga tagapuli ko adlaw-adlaw halin sa eskwelahan, nagahapit guid ako sa tubang-balay ni Tiyay Linda. Ginahabuyan ko sang asin kag ahos ang ila balay. Indi gani, ginatutdan ko ang guma kag ginapaaso sa ila puluy-an pareho sang mga nakita ko sa pelikula, pero wala sang Tiyay Linda nga nagpakita.

Isa ka adlaw, may nabalitaan ako nga may nagluntad nga ginamo sa amon tupad-balay kag si Tiyay Linda guid kuno ang may sala. “Piho nga guin-aswang guid to ni Tiyay Linda.” Nagkadto ako sa ila payag-payag para mang-usisa kag naabtan ko guid sa akto si Tiyay nga nagakihad sang karne. Ay abaw! Indi ko guid

mapunggan ang kakulba nga akon nabatyagan samtang nagapalapit siya sa akon bitbit ang iya sundang.

“To, nagabusong bala ang bata ni Tiyoy mo Naldo. Ang bata kuno ni Manding ang tatay.”

“Tiyay?”“Huo, patihi ko bala. Nakita ko guid sila

duwa mo. Siya guid to ya ang nagpabusong sa bata ni Naldo.”

Ay ahay! Si Tiyay Linda nga guinapatihan ko nga isa ka tiktik, indi gali aswang kayman, gapamantay kag gapaniktik gali sang tupad-balay ang iya ubra! Tingala man ko “tiktik” ang bansag sa iya kayman tam-an gali ka tsismosa kag makatol ang dila! Sa ulihi ko na naintyendihan kun ngaa tuman guid ang kaakig ni Nanay kay Tiyay Linda. Kag sa adlaw-adlaw nga gintuga sang Ginoo, wala guid siya gakahubsan kontra. Ay ahaaaay Tiyay Linda!

kag ahos ang ila balay. Indi gani, ginatutdan ko ang guma kag ginapaaso sa ila puluy-an pareho sang mga nakita ko sa pelikula, pero wala sang

Isa ka adlaw, may nabalitaan ako nga may nagluntad nga ginamo sa amon tupad-balay kag si Tiyay Linda guid kuno ang may sala. “Piho nga guin-aswang guid to ni Tiyay Linda.” Nagkadto ako sa ila payag-payag para mang-usisa kag naabtan ko guid sa akto si Tiyay nga nagakihad sang karne. Ay abaw! Indi ko guid

ko nga isa ka tiktik, indi gali aswang kayman, gapamantay kag gapaniktik gali sang tupad-balay ang iya ubra! Tingala man ko “tiktik” ang bansag sa iya kayman tam-an gali ka tsismosa kag makatol ang dila! Sa ulihi ko na naintyendihan kun ngaa tuman guid ang kaakig ni Nanay kay Tiyay Linda. Kag sa adlaw-adlaw nga gintuga sang Ginoo, wala guid siya gakahubsan kontra. Ay ahaaaay Tiyay Linda!

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41Rainy days of January, Sunday...

1,000, 2,000, 3,000...I don’t know what to talk about, really.

I mean, I do but there are too many things running inside my mind that I have no idea where to start or how to. This is not me. I usually know what I have in mind. What I want, what I feel.

1,000, 2,000, 3,000... For how long do I have to do this?

I don’t think seeing each other will fi x this or make me feel any better. It is something more personal that only my lover and I can settle. I’ve been feeling empty lately. Not the empty empty. Just empty. It’s like a tiny stain in a perfect white dress. The whole thing is pretty and nice, and that stain is so small nobody will be able to notice. But you can’t help looking at it, feeling worried, disturbed. As if that speck of imperfection ruined the dress’ possibility of becoming something beautiful.

1,000, 2,000, 3,000... My hands are aching already.

It is not like we had a huge fi ght or something. That would never happen. He would never hit me or yell at me despite of my obvious mistakes. He never said a thing at all. So I just wished that he would hit me and yell at me instead of staring blankly at the ceiling.

1,000, 2,000, 3,000...Why don’t I try counselling or talking to

a group of friends? Oh dear. That did me no good. I have already bought dozens of self-help books, believe me. What makes my situation harder is that I know what’s wrong but there’s nothing I could do about it. Oh, there is - that one thing.

I stopped counting and lay beside my sleeping lover. I closed my eyes and listened as a monotonous beeping sound came in.

,From somebody s diaryBy Meriel V. Robles

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42July 1, 2012. Madura man ako sa kalibutan,

indi ko guid malipatan ang adlaw nga pinakamanami kag pinaka-espesyal sa bilog ko nga kabuhi. Ang pagka-adik ko sa Facebook ang nangin kabangdanan kung andot kami kang tawo nga naging parte ka kabuhi ko hasta tulad.

Samtang naga-research ako para sa isabat sa akon assignment, wara ko guid mapunggan ang mag bukas ka Facebook (Hahaha! Part dun guid tana ra ka everyday life ta. May hambalanon gani, “Dahil sa Facebook, wala akong natatapos”). Bag-o pa lang ko nag-open ka akon account kang hinali lang may nag gulpi chat kanakon “Hi”. Syempre indi ako snob “Oh hello Pat,” sabat ko kana, kag naglawid pa ang amun pagbayluhanay ka mensahe. Ay abaw, pwerti! Kung ano-ano lamang ipamangkot na kanakon (imbestigador lang teh?) Tama ka raku nga pamangkutanon hasta sa naglab-ut sa “Pwedi ka pamasyar?” ang hambal na (PBB Teens lang?). Wara ko nagsugot, syempre indi man ko ETG (easy to get). Asta sa nangayo tana ka cellphone number ko, tugro ko man eh. Sabagay, textmate man lang da. Sa sige

namun chat, guinyamuhat ko tana nga ibutang “in a relationship” ang status kang sara kag sara, kag nagpati man c toto. Sa ginhimu na, nabutang run ako sa ital-ital. Guin-accept ko na lang request na hay budlay man mahambalan “walang isang salita”. Sa amu to nga gabi-e, kami dun nga duwa pero sa Facebook lang eh.

Manugturog dun dapat ako kang may nag-text kanakon nga unregistered sa contacts ko. Nadumduman ko dayun ang lalaki nga nangayo ka number ko kaina. Bangud wara ako load, indi guid ako ka-reply kana. Ay abaw si toto, wara ka agwanta kag guin-loadan na guid ako. Pasalamat man eh kanana. Matuod nga lango-lango ko lang pero indi ko malikawan ang masadyahan bisan bala panandalian lang. Halin sa pag-chat namun kaina hasta kaja nga istoryahanay amun, wara na guid ko guin-untatan pamangkot kung kami dun. “Huod gani,” amu ra ang masabat ko kana. Nalab-utan kami kang alas-tres kang ka agahon ka istorya kuris-kuris.

6:30 dun natapos ang akun klase kang masunod nga adlaw. Hay gabi-i dun akun buhi,

July 1, 2012. Madura man ako sa kalibutan, indi ko guid malipatan ang adlaw nga

Abi ko sa facebook langNi Edelyn

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43nag-off er si Pat nga ihatod na ko sa boarding house. Namayha pa ako hay amu palang to ang una nga time nga makitaay kami. Marayu pa ako sa gate, may nakita ako nga naka red t-shirt, nakapantalon kag garot-garot nga naga-text. Pagkatapos namun mag panyapon, namirit si Pat nga ihatod ako garing wara ko nagpasugot. “Andam, I LOVE YOU,” ang guinhambal na antis kami magbulagay. Namula kag guin-kilig ako sa guinhambal ni Pat. Matuod man ukon lango-lango, nalipay guid ako.

Naglawig ang amun relasyon, asta sa naman-an ka amun mga pamilya. Sang una tutol sanda kanamun apang bangud gapalangga-anay kami, amun nga guinpadayon ang amun relasyon. Kag wara mag lawig, anda man nga nabaton. Raku dun man away-away ang amun naagyan. Asta kadya, kami guihapon kag siguro asta sa urihi, kami na guid man daad eh.

Indi bangud nangin kami instantly bangud kang Facebook, buot hambalon ma-break kami dayon. Mayad pa ang madasig mo lang guinsabat kag naglawid kamo kaysa malawid nga pangaluyag pero wara ma-semanahan, tapus na relasyon niyo.

nag-off er si Pat nga ihatod na ko sa boarding house. Namayha pa ako hay amu palang to ang una nga time nga makitaay kami. Marayu pa ako sa gate, may nakita ako nga naka red t-shirt, nakapantalon kag garot-garot nga naga-text. Pagkatapos namun mag panyapon, namirit si Pat nga ihatod ako garing wara ko nagpasugot. “Andam, I LOVE YOU,” ang guinhambal na antis kami magbulagay. Namula kag guin-kilig ako sa guinhambal ni Pat. Matuod man ukon lango-lango, nalipay guid ako.

Naglawig ang amun relasyon, asta sa naman-an ka amun mga pamilya. Sang una tutol sanda kanamun apang bangud gapalangga-anay kami, amun nga guinpadayon ang amun relasyon. Kag wara mag lawig, anda man nga nabaton. Raku dun man away-away ang amun naagyan. Asta kadya, kami guihapon kag siguro asta sa urihi, kami na guid man daad eh.

Indi bangud nangin kami instantly bangud kang Facebook, buot hambalon ma-break kami dayon. Mayad pa ang madasig mo lang guinsabat kag naglawid kamo kaysa malawid nga pangaluyag pero wara ma-semanahan, tapus na relasyon niyo.

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44 After this… I… will never be same… (With eyes tightly shut and both arms wide open)

* * * * * * I am not a Hollywood star with jaw-

dropping sex appeal. Not the one that a horde of girls would be crazy over and be desperate just to see an angle of my visage, heart-racing smiles and breath-taking wink coupled with the opening of my mint-breath mouth. But I’m also not the typical guy you see around. Trust me.

I’m in my mid 20s with a stable job, pleasing looks, good body composure and most of all, SINGLE (which means I’m up for grabs). Interested? Here’s my list for qualifi cations: copper-colored hair, bold blue eyes, Venus de Milo’s physique, artistic and with good scholastic records. Complete? You’re ready for next big thing, the INTERVIEW.

I’m not a perfectionist but I just want to have a total control of everything I do. You might ask where did I get this overfl owing confi dence and self-esteem. It’s not innate but brought by trials and experiences in the past which made me what I am now – a forsaken geek obsessed of criticizing people.

FORSAKEN? Yes! I said it right. Maybe I was cursed while I was still in my mother’s uterus fl oating amid the debris and when I came out, it felt as if the whole world was shouting, “NOOOOO!!!” all in slow motion. It seems like I haven’t done anything right from the very moment of my existence.

I got bullied in school (Yeah! Like my whole

life from elementary to college). I also tried to make friends but it felt like I’m always out of place. They only call me when they needed me and made fun of me when they get bored. I even got death threats for ex-communicating them (Was it my fault?).

That was tough. Really tough. Eating, playing, talking ALONE (I almost went out of my sanity). I concentrated more with my studies… then graduated, of course, WITH HIGH HONORS and with no FRIENDS, no one to share the triumphs with…

* * * * * * (Breathes with eyes open) Now I know.

The feeling is diff erent when you have THEM. Someone to talk to (even with the petty things you see), someone to share (whether sweet or bitter memories) and someone to love (unconditionally). I was not forsaken, it was me who deprived myself from it (if only life has a rewind button… arrrggg). I never tried because of my fear of being REJECTED without considering the POSSIBILITIES. It was me who made things complicated but I’m now trying to let go of them all at once…

(Voices chatting) “Are you ready?” says Mr. Operator. “Yes! I’m ON!” I excitedly answered.I’m ON with my 5-kilometer zip-line

adventure together with the persons whom I call – TRUE FRIENDS.

life from elementary to college). I also tried to make friends but it felt like I’m always out of

Not the typicalBy iMac

When we’re apartMdpwn. Daishel A. Balsomo

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45There’s no one else I want to talk to with whatever is happening in my life.I go through the motions and do all the things I usually do, but

my heart knows I’m not my usual self.

My daydreams aren’t even dreaming.I feel bored, lost and uninterested in much of anything.

My friends talk to me, but I don’t hear them.Their words fl oat in the air.

I look at the clock and the calendar, and the hoursand the days take on a renewed sense of length.The nights take forever and my sleep is restless.

Time stands still and my life is on “Pause. . . waiting”.

I pray that you’re safe from all harm and you’re feeling alright.I miss your laughter. I miss our talks.

Sometimes I cry for no reason, but my heart knows better.I’m just sad because when we’re apart, I really miss YOU.

There’s no one else I want to talk to with whatever is happening in my life.I go through the motions and do all the things I usually do, but

When we’re apartMdpwn. Daishel A. Balsomo

,

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46 Tawagin niyo na lang ako sa pangalang Reg, labing-siyam na taong gulang. Gusto ko lang sanang ibahagi sa inyo ang isang pangyayaring hinding-hindi ko makakalimutan mahigit isang taon na ang nakalipas. Isang bangungot na hanggang ngayo’y patuloy kong tinatakasan maging hanggang sa likod ng mga bakal na rehas.

Labinlimang taon ako noon nang magpasyang lumuwas si Papa ng bansa upang magtrabaho. Dalawa na lang kami ni Papa ang magkatuwang sa buhay kaya siya’y nagdesisyong maghanap ng magiging kapalit niya sa pag-aalaga’t pagpapalaki sa akin habang siya’y nasa malayo. Siya si Tita Margaret. Magkasing-edad sila ni Papa at mukhang mabait naman. Bagama’t labag sa aking kalooban ang pagtanggap sa kanya, wala na akong ibang nagawa kundi ang tanggapin siya.

Palagi na lamang gumuguhit ang mga ngiti sa labi ni Papa. Ang mga ngiting dati’y nakikita ko lamang noong buhay pa si Mama. Tinanong ko ang aking sarili. Masaya naman kaming dalawa ni Papa noon ah?

Araw na ng pag-alis ni Papa. Alas-singko ng umaga ang kanyang fl ight. Buong gabi akong nag-isip kung makakaya ko na ba na malayo sa kanya. Isang bagay lang ang naiisip ko – ‘di ko kakayanin ’to.

Gumising ako na wala na si Papa sa aking tabi at nasa kabilang ibayo na ng mundo’t nakikipagsapalaran para sa magandang kinabukasan na maibibigay niya sa’kin.

Dumaan ang mga araw, linggo, buwan. Napapansin kong unti-unting nagbabago ang pakikitungo ni Tita sa akin. Palagi na lamang niya akong sinisigiwan at pinagsasalitaan ng hindi maganda kahit sa mga maliliit na pagkakamaling nagagawa ko.

Isang araw, nakita kong naglalakad pauwi ng bahay si Tita. May kasama siyang lalaki. Agad ko silang sinundan nang patago. Nabigla ako sa aking nakita - pinagtataksilan niya si Papa! Unti-unting namuo ang poot at galit sa aking dibdib pero sa halip na isumbong ko siya, pinili kong hintayin na lamang ang pagdating ng aking ama sa susunod na taon.

Doo’y nagsimula akong magkaroon ng bisyo at sumama sa barkada ngunit kahit ganun, ‘di ko naisipang lumiban sa pagpasok sa paarala’t maglakwatsa. Gusto ko pa ring makapagtapos at makasama si Papa sa pagkuha ng diploma.

Malapit na ang graduation at sabik na sabik na ako sa pag-uwi ng aking ama. Subalit naging malupit sa akin ang kapalaran. Laking gulat ko nang sabihin ni Tita na nag-extend pa ng isang taon si Papa. Parang sinakluban ako ng langit at lupa sa aking nalaman, ‘di ko na alam

Tawagin niyo na lang ako sa pangalang Reg, labing-siyam na taong gulang. Gusto ko lang sanang ibahagi sa inyo ang isang

Pinakamalaking pagkakamali

Ni zgel

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47

kung ano ang gagawin ko. Magagalit ba ako o malulungkot? Napakagulo ng aking isip noon.

Kumuha ako ng kursong Civil Engineering dahil pareho naming gusto ni Papa iyon. Pero nawalan na ako ng gana sa pag-aaral at nabaling ang aking atensyon sa barkada. Masaya ako sa piling nila na para bang walang problema. Naisip ko na mas mabuti na ito kaysa manatili ako sa aming bahay kung saan naroon ang taksil kong Tita.

Umabot ako sa puntong sumubok ako ng droga. Tama nga ang sabi nila, napakasarap nito sa pakiramdam - parang langit! Pero dito na nagsimulang pumunta sa kawalan ang aking buhay.

Mabilis na lumipas ang tatlong taon simula nang umalis si Papa. ‘Di ko namalayan ang paglipas ng mga taon dahil hindi tulad

noon, ‘di na ako nasasabik sa aming pagkikita. Isang gabi’y umuwi ako ng aming bahay, lasing at sabog sa droga. Papalapit na ako ng pinto nang muli kong nakita si Tita. May kasama na namang lalaki sa loob ng bahay! Biglang kumulo ang dugo ko at dumilim ang aking paningin. Naisipan kong patayin na lamang silang dalawa upang maipaghiganti ko si Papa. Kinuha ko ang nakatagong patalim na nasa bag ko, hinawakan ito ng pagkahigpit-higpit at pumasok sa pinto. Dali-dali kong sinaksak nang ilang beses ang lalaking nakatalikod. Duguan. Wala nang buhay.

Sa tagpong ‘yun, nagawa ko ang pinakamalaking pagkakamali ng aking buhay na hanggang ngayo’y patuloy kong pinagsisisihan sa Poong Maykapal at pinagbabayaran dito sa likod ng rehas. Oo, pinaslang ko ang sarili kong ama.

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48 I don’t know how to start this. Maybe

because of the mere fact that I’m not used to writing these kinds of letter.

There are plenty of things running on my mind right now. Whether I choose to tell you everything that I feel or just let my feelings unfold until you leave, there is nothing else left for me to do. But there is something inside me that keeps on telling me “Go for it! Tell him,” that’s why you’re reading this letter of mine.

I’ve spent months enjoying in the cradle of your companionship. In such a short span of time, many things have happened that even I can’t barely control. I know the fact that writing this letter is a little bit odd to me knowing that you have a girlfriend. Whatever your reaction will be is okay with me. I just hope that everything will be the same as they were before after this confession.

I kept on telling myself that I don’t feel anything for you. I tried to ignore it but later,

I’ve realized that I truly do feel something. Funny but it’s true. Strange! I’m such a stupid person for admiring someone like you who’s already committed to someone else.

These past nights, I’ve been thinking – “What would life be without you?” It would be miserable and I guess, it would be boring. Everyday will be just another ordinary day. I’m always in agony whenever I think of the day when you’re slowly walking away from my sight. But then, I’m happy for you because I know you’ve always been waiting for that day to come.

How I wish I could tell these things to you personally but I can’t. I’m afraid. I don’t have the guts of saying it in front of you. Lance, I’m sorry! I’ve really tried not to feel anything for you but my feelings went out of control. I’m sorry, Lance.

I’ve realized that I truly do feel something.

Especially for youBy Iska

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49Christmas Party 2013. Nakasalamuha ako ng

isang sumpa.“Ano ba?”“Oo nga! Oo pangit ka at hindi kita

magugustuhan kailanman.” Hindi pa ako nakuntento, at sinabi ko pang, “Matalino ka? Eh uto-uto ka naman pala eh. Babaeng…ewan ko na lang kung ano pang itatawag ko sa’yo. Tama na sigurong bansagan kang ENGOT NA BALAT BANGUS!”

Alam niyo kasi, parang kaliskis ng isda yung kanyang balat at ang mukha naman niya ay kahugis ng ulo ng butete. Kulang na lang siguro ay hasang. Kaya naman talagang nakakadiri siya at kapag nakipaghalubilo ka sa kanya, ay naku, Campus fi gure ka na!

Kaya nga naman hindi na ako nakapagtiis at iyon nga ang mga salitang harap-harapang kinain ng babaeng sunod ng sunod sa akin. Hay naku…kung alam niyo lang talaga, ang baduy kasing tingnan. Nakakahiya lalo na kung kasama ko ang mga mapangutya kong mga kaklase. Wala na silang ginawa kundi sabihin sa aking, “Uyyy! Andyan na naman yung alaga mong bangus. Sige, i-feed mo na nga yan! (Ano? Feeding Frenzy?).

Ang hindi ko lang talaga maintindihan eh hindi naman ako mayaman. Hindi naman ako matalino. At lalong hindi naman ako gwapo at macho. Ano nga ba kaya talaga ang pakay ng bangus na yun sa akin? Hindi ko talaga maintindihan.

January 6, 2014. Pasukan na naman at maaga pa akong bumalik sa eskwelahan. Pero bago pa man ako makarating, may nasaksihan akong isang aksidente. Isang batang wasak ang ulo at durog ang katawan. Halos hindi na nga siya makilala sa sitwasyong iyon. Ang mas nakakabigla at nakakapanindig-balahibo pa ay wala man lang ni isang tumulong sa kanya. Kitang-kita at dinig na dinig ko rin ang reaksyon ng kanyang ina habang tumatakbo papunta sa kanyang anak at humahaguyguy ng, “Meawwww! Meeeaw! Meaw!” Oo, isang bangkay ng itim na batang pusa ang aking nasaksihan. (‘Diba nga, malas ‘yun? Bagong taon pa naman.)

Pagdating ko ay napansin ko agad ang isang malaking pagbabago. Kadalasan ay makikita ko siyang naka-abang sa gate. Ngunit nang araw na iyon, ni anino niya ay hindi ko man lang nakita.

“Alam niyo ba? Lumipat na raw ng paaralan yung balat-bangus?” chika ng hindi rin naman kagandahang shokla habang kinakagat ang nagdurugong hotdog-on-stick sabay dila sa maputi at malagkit na vanilla ice cream.

Tama ba ang narinig ko? Ayos! Sa wakas, tapos na ang aking mga paghihirap at malaya na rin ako sa sumpa ng babaeng iyon! Magkaka-girlfriend na rin ako ng maganda, seksi, at... alam niyo na! (Oo, yun oh!)

Hindi ko talaga napigilan ang aking saya. Kaya hindi pa man natatapos ang araw ay nakilala ko agad si Marie. Taglay niya na ang lahat kaya hindi ko na pinalampas at niligawan ko siya. Sa ano ba namang swerte at ora-orada rin niya akong sinagot ng matamis niyang “Oo”!

Dahil nga kami na ni Marie, sinimulan ko na rin siyang ihatid sa kanilang bahay. Habang pauwi, nadaanan na naman uli namin yung pusang nasagasaan. Nagulat ako nang biglang pumatak ang mga luha sa kanyang mga mata. Tinanong ko siya agad kung ano ang dahilan ng kanyang pag-iyak.

“Kilala mo ba si Leah? Yung kinakantyaw at binansagan ninyong babaeng bangus? Siya ay matalik kong kaibigan. Ngunit nagkasamaan kami ng loob bago pa man kami pumasok sa paaralan. Kakamatay niya lang kaninang umaga. Nasagasaan daw siya ng isang trak matapos niyang tulungan ang isang itim na pusa sa kalsada,” humihikbing saad ni Marie sabay takbo papunta sa kabilang kalsada.

Nang bigla na lang……..psssssssssssst! Boom! “Marie? Marieeeeee!!! Bakit ka nadapa?

Dahan-dahan lang kasi. Sige, tara na.”At ‘yun nga, namatay lamang siya nang hindi

niya nasasagot ang aking mga katanungan. Bakit? Bakit niya ko sinusundan? Si Marie..Tama! Siya ang susi sa lahat. (Abangan ang susunod na kabanata.)

Pagdating ko ay napansin ko agad ang isang malaking pagbabago. Kadalasan ay makikita ko siyang naka-abang sa gate. Ngunit nang araw na

Bakit…By Utgard

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50It was another ordinary day in class, but

not for me. I defi nitely hate this day. It was the worst day of my unbelievably unfair life. Why? I was seated next to the guy I hate the most. I hate him for bullying me. I hate him so much that I wanted to tie his tongue around his neck everytime he speaks to me.

Unexpectedly as the days went by, I found myself looking forward to every day that we would spend together on that hateful place. We sang songs and helped each other in achieving our endeavors. We made each other comfortable with our insecurities and eventually, we became best friends because of that. We got so comfortable with each other that we never talked of the things we said to to one another back then. At night, we would text each other about how beautiful the stars in the sky are. I even told him that I named a star after him because he’s so special to me and I could never escape the truth that I’m falling in love with my best friend. He may not be the cutest guy in school but I don’t know what got

into me that my heart fell for him in an instant.He also told me about the girl he loves

and had named a star for her too. Hearing his confession, I felt devastated and hurt that I forgot to ask who the lucky girl was. It’s too painful to know that even though I’m trying to let him know what I feel for him, he really can’t see my eff orts. From that day on, I decided to put an end to it and started avoiding him. I never talked to him until we graduated in high school. I went to Paris to pursue my studies and became a well-known fashion designer. I kept myself occupied with work not because I wanted to, but because I had to.

After eight years of wandering around the world, dressing well-known celebrities and letting my mom enjoy a good life, I still feel that something’s missing. And I know, it’s him, it will always be him. I erased all these thoughts and brought myself back on track. I had to work to get rid of distractions. I enthusiastically accepted the work a friend of mine off ered me. I was so thrilled of meeting

It was another ordinary day in class, but into me that my heart fell for him in an instant.

Unsent letterBy Jeovele V. Panaguiton

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her again that I even forgot to ask who my client really was. To my surprise, my friend came and introduced me to my client. It was him. It was my best friend - the guy I deeply loved a long time ago. For a moment, we sat beside each other and laughed while reminiscing the old times.

Then, a pretty girl came to him and sat on his lap. I smiled at her and asked what her name was. The little girl replied, “I was named after my dad’s fi rst true love, Amanda.” It struck me. There was a long and deadly pause. Then he smiled and said, “You just heard my daughter say your name, my fi rst love.” I was deafened with what I heard. I felt myself fl oating amidst uncertainties. But he is married. Of course the little girl was his child. My tears fell unceasingly knowing that he hid his feelings for me all this time.

I was overpowered by the pain that I didn’t hear him call after me. I ran and crossed the street recklessly to get into my car. Just as a speeding car was about to hit me, someone

pushed me and saved me from death. It was him. I ran by his side and heard him utter, “I love you”. I cried my heart out and held his hands tightly but there was nothing I could do.

His burial followed a week after that tragedy. On that moment, his daughter came and embraced me. She was crying so hard when she told me, “My dad married my mom whose name was also Amanda but he named me after you. My mom died after giving birth to me and now I’m all alone. Would you take care of me, Ms. Amanda?” I pitied her so much and felt glad to have her with me. I raised her as if she was mine. I gave her all the love and attention she needed. On her eighteenth birthday, she handed me a letter written by her father the day he got married. It said, “I kept everything I feel for you because of the promise we made: that is to never fall in love with each other. So now, at my wedding day, I know it is crazy, but I’ll say it anyway... This could have been us”.

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54“I remember the sound of summer wind rustling through the trees.”

“I remember the fi rst time I heard your voice.”

Hey, I‛m sorry. Are you okay?

Haha. No, don‛t worry. I-- you can say, I can‛t see where I‛m going.

A Sense of Wonder-Kyu Seki-

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55“That‛s right...” “I was born blind.”

Doesn‛t it bother you?

What?

- Putting up with a mole like me.

N-ah. Not really. Put that out of your head, will you?

Fall, September 2013

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56“I let it slip that I really wanted to see what the world was like.”

“I remember that winter, on the very fi rst snowfall.”

-sob sob-

I‛m scared. This operation.. what

if I won‛t be able to see at

all?

Hey, now. Where‛s that spunk? You‛ll be just fi ne.

Winter, December 2013

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-end-

“And he was right. The operation was a success.”

“The bandage over my eye was removed. I‛ve always wondered why it was only one and not both, that received a

donor.” ...

“When I fi rst saw him then.. I found the answer.”

“... he was wearing a patch over where his left eye used to be.”

“...it had all been for me.”

“Because..”

...Because I love you.

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60 Special ThanksThis printed piece of art right at the warmth of your palms wouldn’t

have come to existence without the help of those people who supported us through thick and thin. To Dr. Mary Lou L. Arcelo and Dr. Ronald Raymund L. Sebasti an, who conti nuously support us in our ventures, Dr. Ralph L. Pador, for inspiring us to go deeper into the aspects of journalism. To Engr. Cicero S. Orti zo, Mrs. Nancy Rose R. Pelopero, Dr. Lily S. Sumbi, and Mrs. Ive D. Sta. Ana who are always supporti ve to our endeavors.

To our parents, for the love and aff ecti on and for always telling us that we are smart and gorgeous-looking individuals.

The Seagull would also like to thank the following Lacsonians: Daishel Balsomo, Ramon Esteban Espirida, Jan Paul Panes, Angelo Jasti n Ong, Joevele Panaguiton, Anjieera Francisco, Jose Mico Tambalo for their stories and poems, especially to Michelle Gayo for her very much awaited Manga - your contributi ons are deeply and genuinely welcomed. We would also want to say thank you to you, our precious readers for letti ng our stories touch your lives.

Above all, we thank the Almighty God for giving us such awesome-mazing talents and for pushing our adrenaline beyond its limits during the stressful nights of swimming into the pool of creati ve writi ng.

Thank you 100x!

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