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DIGITAL EXHIBIT

This exhibit features the Photo Narratives of DISCOVER BINONDO writers. 

Biking to school during summer time

Photo essay by: Henrico Drueco

During the months of March to May, despite the sweltering summer heat in the Philippines, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of students opting to use their bicycles for their daily commute to school.

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Bike parking of STI Caloocan filled with student's bikes.

The practice of biking to school, also known as "Bike to School," is not new to some students who have been accustomed to riding their bicycles to school regardless of the season. They cite various reasons for choosing this mode of transportation, such as its efficiency in navigating through traffic, its cost-effectiveness compared to other commuting options, and the opportunity it provides for physical exercise. According to Armelia Siwala, affectionately known as "Sir Chief" or "Kuya Chief," the head security officer at STI Caloocan, plans are underway to construct additional bike parking slots to accommodate the growing number of students who choose to ride their bicycles to school. He expressed his delight in seeing more students embrace biking as a means of transportation to the campus.

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Sir Chief the head security of STI Caloocan standing in front of the bike parking.

Biking during the summer season can be particularly challenging due to the intense heat, with peak temperatures in Manila reaching 34°-38°C. To cope with the heat, cyclists are advised to stay hydrated by carrying water with them, apply sunblock to protect their skin, and wear light clothing to stay cool.

Most of the STI students were affected by the heat during this summer.

Photo essay by: Nikolas Andre Aranjuez

Based on news reports it shows that the month of March 2024 was the hottest record globally. 

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The summer is finally near to comes end, but many of us still felt that and we know it will gone soon. However the students of STI still felt by this extremely heat of our seasonal weather that we can’t avoid because we only have two season in our country. Almost of the “Stiers” (Called for the student of STI College Campuses) complaints about what they feel about the current weather that à affects to their studies.

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STIER'S entering to their campus.

They also complaint about their uniforms because most of the students are irritating once they feel the sunlight of the sun towards to their skin that makes them feel uncomfortable. But as a student we should follow the rules and regulations of  the campuses and according to Mr. Richard Maestre “Student Affair Officer”  said that the students should be wear the proper uniform and must be complete. 

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Furthermore, there are student who still wear a casual attire on a regular day because they don’t want to get sweating, so that they wear it for their own comfort and to avoid looking sweaty. 

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Lastly, some of the students hoping that they can wear comfortable clothes wherein they can move freely, and to get focused to their studies and according to “Educators, say students can be unmotivated and distracted when sitting in a hot classroom. And other research shows that cognitive function declines during excessive heat, leading to slower reaction times on assessments.”

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Since this summer season has already in our tradition, we should be always ready especially ourselves to fight over this season by drinking a lot of water to avoid dehydration and maintain the normal temperature of our body.

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Zai one of my classmates in STI is standing in front of gallons of water.

As you can see to this picture my classmate was in front of the water speculating that we must drink a lot of water to be more precisely eight (8) water of glasses a day to avoid the hypertensions, heat stroke, and other cases. And I’d suggest we must always bring the important necessities for this kind of season like towel, umbrella, sunscreen, thumbler, and other things to avoid and be prepared. 

Always remember DRINK your water.

Treasures of Manila

Photo essay by: Abegail L. Tropa

Manila Hotel

 The Manila Hotel is situated in the heart of the City of Manila. William Howard Taft created an urban plan for the city of Manila. He hired Architect Daniel Hudson Burnham who drafted a wide and long tree-lined boulevard that would begin at the park where the end of the bay would be dominated by a magnificent hotel. To execute Burnham’s plans, Taft hired William E. Parsons, a New York city architect, who envisioned an impressive, comfortable hotel which he patterned along the lines of Californian mission style architecture. 

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Inside the Manila Hotel with my classmates at STI Caloocan. 

 On July 4, 1912, The Manila Hotel first opened its doors to the public, as announced on the pages of what was then known as Manila Daily Bulletin. A sprawling property located in the heart of Manila, the country’s first ever five-star hotel became the address of prominence visited by the most illustrious of guests.

 

 The hotel has served as witness to how the city has suffered so much damage during the outbreak of World War II under the Japanese invasion. It also served as the official residence of General Douglas MacArthur and his family. It is also known as the “Address of Prestige” in the Far East to prominent people–presidents, royalties, public figures and rock stars–as well as other discriminating guests.

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As the “true heart of the Philippines,”  the hotel also helped the city in its effort to rebuild itself and establish the city as a major economic center in the Pacific region. More than a century later, Manila Hotel’s stories continue to evoke nostalgia from people of all ages who remember the hotel as its different stages.

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At the historical Luneta Park during a hot afternoon.

Luneta Park

 The rich history of Rizal Park began in 1800’s. It was formerly called “Luneta”, derived from the French word Lunette which means a crescent-shaped fort. It has a fine and wide carriage drive called “La Calzada” where Manila’s elite would get together to enjoy the evening with music and social events. It hosted businesses among Manila’s most influential groups. Likewise, the site was also used by the Spaniards as an execution ground for rebels and activists. On December 30, 1896, Dr. Jose Rizal, the person who opened the consciousness of Filipinos to fight for the country’s freedom through his novels entitled Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, was executed on charges of initiating a rebellion against the Spanish government.

 

 The post-war period paved way to various changes and progress in the country. Moving the capital from Manila to Quezon City was carried out. After the devastation of World War II, the City of Manila embarked on numerous rebuilding and improvement projects. Former Mayor Arsenio Lacson spearheaded the revival and development of Manila from 1952 to 1962 with the objective of bring back its glory as the country’s capital. Several projects were planned and implemented in spite of his sudden demise. Antonio Villegas took over and set up a Citizens Committee to look into the development of Luneta into “one of the most modern parks in the Far East”. 

 Until now, the park continues to play an important part not just in Philippine history but also in the lives of people. The NPDC continues to develop Rizal Park, Luneta as a true people’s park where Filipino families can commune with nature and have fun by making it more environmentally sustainable and turning it into world-class urban park

Beat the Heat!

Photo essay by: Zairrus Albert Oplas

During this month of April and the next month of May the heat is really outstanding as it causes problems to people such as heatstroke, heat exhaustion, skin allergy, etc. That’s why I make this article to help other people how to beat this problematic heat.

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Andre Colubio driniking a refreshing cold Iced Tea at the STI Caloocan ground lobby during a hot Saturday afternoon of April 6,2024.

Firstly, remember to always drink enough water. Drink as much water or other cold liquids as you can to keep your body temperature stable and delay the onset of weariness. Avoid drinks that are high in sugar, caffeine, or alcohol. Keep in mind that you may need to drink more than normal if you are exercising or perspiring a lot. Foods high in water content, such as mangos, are also hydrating. Then, wherever possible, stay indoors. If you must go outside while attending school, try to avoid doing so and instead, take a cold room. In order to eliminate the heat you sense outside your home, you should also always take a cold shower each day. Always remember to maintain your composure.

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Ice Tea and Mango which is a best selling refreshment in STI Caloocan during this summer season.

Look out for symptoms of heat exhaustion. Everyone can get sick from the heat, but elderly individuals, persons with heart conditions, and tiny children are more vulnerable since their bodies don't adjust to the heat as quickly. In the heat, if you take certain drugs or have cardiovascular issues, your body may have a tougher time cooling down. Heat-related illnesses can cause symptoms like headache, lightheadedness, weakness, nausea, flushed skin, quick heartbeat, and thirst. The shield of this country is a cool body.

Managing Pedestrian Lane

Photo essay by: Joshua Andre P. Colubio

This is your Project description. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start.

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Traffic enforcer looking out for the traffic in front of STI College Caloocan and UE – Caloocan, March 23, 2024, Saturday. This road is known to be always busy especially during rush hours.

The photo looks like the King of road, jeep, and the truck is having a race with each other but actually not. It captures the reality of Traffic here in the Philippines especially within Metro Manila. It may sometimes chill just like in the photo, but later, we all know that it’s going to be jumped pack full of cars. It encapsulates the fact that we cannot escape traffic but we have to live with it for the rest of our lives.

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Students looking a Jeep in front of STI College Caloocan and UE - Caloocan, in the middle of an afternoon of Saturday, March 23, 2024.

We can change that though, or improve that. If we try to make voices and knock on doors of the higher ups, I believe that we can have a solution to the never stopping problem of traffic here in the Philippines. The photo may seem beautiful and aesthetically pleasing, but let’s not forget the fact that the king of road is facing a problem of being Phased out. It may seem the right solution but it is not. The Government should give a proper consideration to those jeepney drivers who can’t afford to participate in a consolidation. 

 

In reality, traffic is inevitable. It is up to us on we can live in harmony with. We also have a choice to escape but its in the hands of the people above. Let us not be afraid of fighting for our rights – to improve the traffic and fight for our jeepney drivers.

Day in a life of STI College Students

Photo essay by: Michaella De Lara

The campus is bustling with activity as students, the lifeblood of the institution, can be spotted in every corner, contributing to the lively ambiance. Some students rush to their classes, clutching their books, while others engage in animated discussions, potentially deliberating on recent lectures or planning for upcoming projects.

 

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The canteen and main building of STI College Caloocan.

Despite the energetic atmosphere, the campus maintains a sense of tranquility and organization. There is an overarching purpose in the air, a collective understanding that each individual is present to learn, grow, and make meaningful contributions to the community.

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The open field of STI College Caloocan

The image serves as a testament to the college's dedication to providing a holistic education. It goes beyond academics, emphasizing the importance of student engagement, interaction, and peer learning. The college strives to create an environment that fosters curiosity, encourages innovation, and values the spirit of community.

The Timeless Beauty of Binondo

Photo essay by: Isha Dizon

As the day winds down and the sun starts to go down, you can feel something change, especially in Binondo's lively streets. It's a time when the busy vibe of the day turns into something special. It catches the attention of everyone around, whether they're from here or just visiting. This place is rich with history and cultural significance, holds a special place in the hearts of many.

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The street lights enhances the beauty of Binodo as the sky is about to turn black.

Its long history and cultural importance is loved by many. When the sun sets and the warm light spreads, the busy streets calm down, getting ready for the night. Lanterns start to shine, bringing luck and prosperity, and creating beautiful patterns on the ground. Families come together to eat and chat, making the atmosphere even more special with delicious smells and joyful laughter.

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Eng Bee Tin and The Great Buddha Cafe which are the two most famous eatery in Binondo.

As the sun disappears and the night takes over, Binondo shows its true beauty. Despite modern changes, it's still a source of pride for the Filipino Chinese community, blending old customs with new ideas seamlessly. In the darkness, Binondo's liveliness may fade a bit, but its spirit remains strong, guiding future generations forward.

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