CATALYST XVI

2017 | VOLUME XVI

catalyst
CONCERTED ACTION TOWARDS ACTIVE LEADERSHIP OF THE YOUTH IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

“ANO ANG KWENTONG PSYSC MO?” AFFILIATES AND RCs
Ate’s and kuya’s share their On youth leadership
PSYSC experiences

PSYSC 2016 HIGHLIGHTS
45 years of PUSTE

WWW.PSYSC.ORG

THE COVER cont

The sun setting is an image of so 05
many different interpretations. For
some it symbolizes an ending chapter, psysc w/
others view it as a romantic scenery. partners
However, this year’s CATALYST see
this picture as a change. 14

Contrary to the meaning that the sun psysc
setting depicts the ending of a day, events 2016
we believe that this is a beginning
of a wonderful change. It is because
after this very scene comes a breath-
taking view of twinkling lights and
calming sounds.

This year’s volume is like that
sunset. Full of starting changes that
will hopefully turn into something
incredible, something that we can be
proud of.

30

affiliates
& rc

KATAL is a new publication made by
the Philippine Society of Youth Science
Clubs to its science club affiliates across
the nation.

tents Editor's note

08 As youths of today, it is acceptable
that we seek to go beyond a brighter to-
st & e news morrow. Going after every opportunity is
of 2016 what we must strive, that becoming less
will never be an option. We are the youth,
21 who must keep on pressing forward – by
seeing within every uncertainty as to having
feature a hidden possibility. We must be the youth
stories who is unafraid of facing what lies ahead of
us and know that we are not alone.
32
In this year’s issue of CATALYST, we
Entertainment continually bring you what has been started
45 years ago – the public understanding of
science, technology and the environment
(PUSTE). We have included various articles
from different fields and areas of PSYSC’s
thrust, that we hope to inspire its readers. In
addition, different stories coming from our
affiliates, NECATS, the NEC and to one of
our partner organization are also included
as we define the value of volunteerism and
how it made an impact in their own lives.
Going back to our roots, we strongly be-
lieve that it is one of the most effective way
to reach out the future leaders of this mod-
ern society.

Being so, we aspire of fellow youth
to become a catalyst for change – putting
value in every simple thing that surround
us, taking action and be part of the contrib-
uting society. Giving importance in all the
triumphs behind and be grateful of where
we are now, are part of our aspirations. For
the youth today does not back down, does
not stop short and does not let go when
fighting for something we strongly hold
on to. We are the youth, who continues to
believe more than just dreaming. For in the
end, we will not make it this far and the vic-
tories we have is not ours to keep.

MICAH JOY C. YAP

EDITORIAL BOARD

Chloe Ma. Nina Cabreros Joanna Mae Delos Reyes Micah Joy Yap *not in photo
News Editor Associate Editor Editor-in-Chief Leanne Jamie Gonzales
Feature Editor

Hahns Anthony Genato
Entertainment Editor

Patrick Harold Vidal Denise Faye Janer Mariel Frances Urbiztondo
Layout Artist Managing Editor Chief Photographer

contributors Affiliates & RC
Contributors
Jemaima Mendoza Kael Banag
Lanze Magalona Angel Gutierrez Nicole Justin Hacildone
Jamil Hadji Alawi Fritz Parra Lloyd Jewel Tejada
Paula Yap Rogelio Jardeloza Reisha Claffel Ferraren
Joshua Kae Macugay Harvey Lor
Kendra Gadong Jackie Larosa
Franklin Cercado Nikko Dela Rosa
Mayrell Ann Ravina Clark Mafnas
Jean Yun Riza Lee

S F FWords by: Isabelle Capistrano
Science Film Festival

B angkok, Thailand -

P PSYSC and the Science
Education Institute of

the Department of Science
and Technology (DOST-SEI)
represented the country in the
annual Science Film Festival
Regional Activities Workshop
held last August 8-10, 2016.

The regional
workshop, organized by
Goethe-Institut, is an annual
gathering of individuals,
institutions, and organizations
from all over South East Asia,
who are active promoters
of science and education in
the country they represent.
Among the participating
countries in the workshop
last year were Vietnam, Laos,
Cambodia, Indonesia, and the
Philippines.

The workshop
served as an avenue for a
fruitful exchange of ideas
on fun science workshops
and activities that would
supplement the films in the
International Science Film
Festival come November that
year.

5

Giant pandaWHAT’SNEW? Words by:
Chloie Cabreros

no longer
Endangered
T he International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has now changed the status of
the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) from “Endangered” to “Vulnerable” on the Red
List of Threatened Species—the global list of species at risk of extinction. This change can
be attributed to the 17% rise in the population of giant pandas in 2014, after a census found
1,864 giant pandas in the bamboo forests in China, compared to the population of 1,114 among
giant pandas in the 1980s.

“For over 50 years, the giant “The recovery of the panda shows
panda has been the globe’s most beloved that when science, political will and engage-
conservation icon. Knowing that the panda ment of local communities come together,
is now a step further from extinction is an we can save wildlife and also improve biodi-
exciting moment for everyone committed versity”, added Lambertini.
to conserving the world’s wildlife and their This remarkable success can be at-
habitats”, said Marco Lambertini, the WWF tributed to two factors: A marked decrease
Director General. in poaching, which was rampant in the
1980s; and a huge expansion of the ani-
mal’s protected habitat. Currently, there are
67 panda reserves in the world, protecting
nearly two-thirds of all wild pandas.
Climate change, however, continues
to threaten the natural habitat of the giant
pandas in the next 80 years. In order to pro-
tect their habitat and the population of gi-
ant pandas, it is essential that efforts such
as effective forest conservation policies be
strengthened and that emerging threats be
addressed.

References: http://www.worldwildlife.org/stories/giant-panda-no-longer-endangered
Photo sources: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2016/08/24/pictures-of-the-day-24-august-2016/one-year-old-female-giant-panda-cub-nuan-nuan-appears-to-wave-to/

6

One-year-old female giant panda cub, Nuan Nuan at the National Zoo
in Kuala Lumpur on Aug. 23

7

Great Barrier reef, under
severe stress, not dead

Words by: Jemaima Mendoza

Located off the coast of Queensland, Australia, the Great Barrier Reef is
known to be the largest coral reef system in the world with more than
2,900 individual reefs.
An article was released by Outside Magazine stating that the Great Barrier
Reef has passed away at the age of 25 million years after suffering a long illness.
This statement made such impact on social media that many expressed their
grief towards it. But according to scientists, it is not actually dead, rather, it is
dying.
Through the years, this reef has experienced its largest coral bleaching,
affecting 93% of its corals. Bleaching occurs when the tiny algae that are
responsible for the coloration and feeding of the corals become ejected due to
stress. These corals turned white due to the unseasonably warm temperatures
of the ocean brought by climate change.
When researchers came to inspect the reef, the survey showed that
around a third of the Great Barrier Reef was dead. With three bleaching events in
a span of 18 years, it would be difficult for the reef to cope.
However, governments, scientists, and charities are working together so
that future generations can continue to appreciate its beauty. The Australian
government released its Reef 2050 Plan in March 2015 to help save the Great
Barrier Reef, which includes plans for improving water quality to help corals
recover from bleaching.

References and photo sources: http://worldanimalnews.com/scientists-confirmed-great-barrier-reef-approaching-extinction/8
http://edition.cnn.com/2016/10/14/us/barrier-reef-obit-trnd/
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/11/161129090410.htm

the world reaEches 440 ppm CO2Words by: Lanze Magalona
“Environmentalists veryone is familiar with greenhouse gases (e.g. carbon dioxide)
advise to conserve and their impact to the environment. They also know that
energy; to plant trees plants play a vital role in reducing carbon dioxide, despite being
and vegetation; to use the chief driving force of the increase of CO2 level in the atmosphere.
eco-friendly prod-
According to climate scientists, the safe CO2 concentration
[ ]ucts;and to practice level in the atmosphere is 350 ppm (parts per million) per month,
environment-friendly while 400 ppm is the level of no return. Only this mid-2016, the
South Pole Observatory in Antarctica became the last station to
record beyond 400 ppm, signaling the world surpassing its point of
no return. Surprisingly, about 4 to 20 million years ago, a time when
Earth processes occurred naturally, the CO2 level also increased
tremendously.
The effects of surpassing the 400 ppm limit left international
leaders and the scientific community alarmed, that they established
policies on how to cut down the level of CO2 emission. Environmentalists
habits.” advise to conserve energy; to plant trees and vegetation; to use eco-

friendly products; and to practice environment-friendly habits.

References: https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2016/sep/28/the-world-passes-400ppm-carbon-dioxide-thresh-
old-permanently
http://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/sciencefair/2016/09/29/carbon-dioxide-levels-400-ppm-scripps-mauna-loa-global-
warming/91279952/

Zika virus Words by: Jamil Hadji Alawi Refences:
in the philippines http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/845876/2-new- zika-victims- bring-to- 35-total-number- of-cases- in-ph#ixzz-
As of November 2016, a total of 35 Zika 4TOZdXv4x
virus cases were already detected in Zika virus is transmitted through mosquito http://www.rappler.com/nation/148215-zika- virus-endemic- philippines
the Philippines. However, Department bites specifically by the Aedes aegypti mosquito.
of Health (DOH) Secretary Dr. Paulyn Jean B. For the infected persons, they pass on the virus
Rosell-Ubial informs the public that Zika virus via contact with their body fluids like saliva,
is endemic in the Philippines. sweat, tears, and urine.

The first case of Zika virus in the Symptoms of the Zika virus include fever,
Philippines was detected in 2012 in the Visayas conjunctivitis, skin rashes, headaches, body
Region and now it reached CALABARZON and pain, and vomiting. Currently, there is no vaccine
Metro Manila. The first Zika virus case in Metro or medication yet against Zika virus. But one
Manila involves a pregnant woman aged 16 may treat the symptoms by taking medicines and
who is from Las Piñas City. drinking fluids to prevent dehydration. The best
way to prevent Zika virus is by mosquito control.

9

References: https://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/msl/multimedia/gallery-indexEvents.html#. nasa releases new
WI4Nu7Z95o4
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3783258/Red-Planet-revealed-NASA-s-stunning-pictures- Words by:
Mars-Rover-hills-plateaus-rock-faces-likened-road-trip-desert.html
photos of marsPaulaYap

NASA’s Mars Curiosity rover captured
staggering images of layered rock
formationsonthesurfaceoftheredplanet.
With the scenery’s resemblance to
areas of the US desert, Curiosity Project
Scientist Ashwin Vasavada, from NASA’s Jet
Propulsion Laboratory in California, said that
Curiosity’s science team had been very excited
as they ventured this road trip through a bit of
the American desert Southwest on Mars.

“The new images arguably rival photos
taken in U.S. National Parks,” NASA’s Jet
Propulsion Laboratory said in a statement.
The photos were taken on September
8, 2016 in the Murray Buttes Region by the
rover’s MastCam.
Vasavada said studying the formations
up close has allowed researchers to better
understand how sand dunes were buried
before becoming “chemically changed by
groundwater, exhumed and eroded to form the
landscape that we see today.”
According to NASA, the Curiosity
rover, which has been on the Red Planet since
August 2012, is currently examining younger
layers of the planet’s surface as it’s set to
continue its mission further south and higher
up Mars’ Mount Sharp. Moreover, the rover
is investigating how and when the habitable
ancient conditions evolved into conditions
which are drier and less favorable for life.

10

Three Under clear skies, the year 2016 witnessed the
biggest and the brightest supermoons in 68
years. The world experienced threae supermoons
in 2016: during the full moons in the months of
October, November, and December, with the November
supermoon being the closest full moon in the 21st century.
This phenomenon is also called a perigee full
moon, when a full moon coincides with its closest
proximity to Earth. During this phenomenon, the moon
is at its closest to the planet as it orbits Earth.
In the November supermoon, the moon passed
by the Earth at a distance of 356,511 km, the closest
the moon has been in the century.
Supermoons can be 14% bigger and 30%
brighter than an apogee full moon—full moons that
happen when the moon is at its farthest distance from
Earth. However, these differences may not be easily
noticed as factors such as clouds or urban lights may
affect how we perceive its size and brightness.
“This year’s supermoon is one of the closest
and biggest in 68 years and it won’t happen again until
2034,” PAGASA said.

rare References and photo sources: http://www.space.com/34401-3-supermoons-
in-last-3-months-of-2016-nasa-explains-video.html
supermoons light https://science.nasa.gov/news-articles/2016-ends-with-three-supermoons

the 2016 evening skies

11

“Looking back from “During senior year “PSYSC has It’s been 3 years
where I started my in high school, I brought me to since I became part
journey, It was made joined the National different levels of of PSYSC. And in
clear to me that Science Clubs understanding. those 3 years, I
PSYSC paved the Summit for the first It motivated me can truly say that
way into making my time. I was inspired to do beyond this organization
dreams a reality. I’ll and amazed by my limitations does bring out the
be forever grateful in how the volunteers and enabled me best in every one,
this organization that worked, and the to have deeper as it has done to
molded me to become complexity of the apprehension me. Being a NECAT,
a leader with a deep event. I said to on the issues of Core member and
purpose to empower myself, ‘When I go our society and a member of the
the youth in STEM. I to college, I want to environment.” NEC, it was always
am very sure that all become like those a roller coaster ride
my future plans and volunteers.’ A year AUDITOR with PSYSC. PSYSC
decisions in life will later I went to study has brought me all
always be inspired in UP, and searched Lainly Quilantang the way up and all
by my PSYSC roots. for this organization. the way down. But
PSYSC sure brought PSYSC brought trust me when I say
me this far and will me to heights and that it will be worth
continue to reach altitudes that I never it in the end. Indeed,
greater heights as far imagined reaching. it is and will always
as I can.” PSYSC also brought be worth it with
me challenges that PSYSC.
President I never thought of
overcoming. PSYSC Secretariat
Engr. Mark Ronald Eborde brought me to
where I am, to who Bea Ledesma
I am right now.”

Finance

Nikka Thea Cunom

“PSYSC brought I am proud to Being in PSYSC has PSYSC has brought In every event you
me to a realistic yet witness the holistic strengthened my me across the immerse yourself
wonderful world. A growth and maturity hope for our nation. country and even into, you are
world where I can in each of our The organization has as far as Bangkok. blessed with new
see the state of members especially brought me to closer Being a volunteer experiences and
science clubbing in mine. PSYSC not to the youth who has has given me the knowledge that
the Philippines while only opened my not tire of believing opportunity to travel you can share and
getting in touch eyes to the things and continuously and meet my fellow learn from. PSYSC
with the Filipino we can do to help making a difference. science enthusiasts has allowed me just
youth. I was brought the youth but also PSYSC enabled and nation-builders. this. It is a unique
to a world where opened oppurtunities me to hear their It gave me these immersion through
I can see the less that would help or stories and to remain opportunities and different means
fortunate children aid the advancement steadfast in our experiences which of promoting our
who believes that of education in efforts to empower I never imagined advocacy. However,
a bright future is our country. This the youth. I would be lucky the greatest
waiting for them, the organization reaches enough to have as thing about
more fortunate kids and promotes the VP for External Affairs a college student. gaining significant
whose characters youth to dabble Elaine May Laguilles However, these knowledge is being
and minds are in science related physical miles don’t able to share it to
being shaped to activity or courses compare to the different people
be the country’s for this is time in distance PSYSC has you meet everyday.
next innovators, relevant in today’s brought me from It has definitely
and a world where society. where I used to brought me to a
volunteerism is very be. Definitely, the whole new level
alive.” VP for Internal Affairs farthest that PSYSC of passion and
has brought me is volunteerism.
Membership Officer Nissi Abigail Buenaobra closer to the person
that I want to be. Public Information Officer
Florethin Ann Tan
Marketing Officer Michelle Vigilia

Isabelle Capistrano

National Executive Council F.Y ‘15-’17 on
how far PSYSC has brought them

Board of DR. MANOLO MENA Board Members
Chairperson DR. CYNTHIA SALOMA
DR. JOSE BALMACEDA
trustees DR. AURA MATIAS MR. SANTI DAPUL
Vice Chairperson for External MR. RAMON NAVARRA JR.
Affairs DR. RENATO SOLIDUM JR.
MS. ANNIE BACHILLER
‘15-’17 ATTY. RODOLFO QUIMBO ENGR. MARK RONALD EBORDE
Vice Chaiperson for Internal Af-
fairs
MR. ALEX TACDERAS
Board Treasurer

ATTY. ANNA-LEA UY-BALONKITA
Corporate Secretary

MS. RUBY CRISTOBAL
Public Information Officer

14

15

Looking back 1971 The National Science Club
moving forward was founded by a group of
science fair winners
PSYSC through the years

1998 PSYSC amended its 1996
constitution
PSYSC held its

first ncsiw

2012 PSYSC built its first

PSYSC 2014 science library in Sitio
launched its Ronggot
first search
convention

16

1974 The National 1979 Presidential decree for
declaring September as
Science Club National Science Club
changed its name Month (NSCM)
to PSYSC

1990 PSYSC held its first NYSTESC 1989

PSYSC was
declared an
independent
organization

2015 PSYSC 2016 PSYSC celebrates its
45th year Anniversary
releases its
branding
identity book

17

AGRINNOVATE: 18
Revolutionizing
TECHNOSURGE:
Agricultural
Outlook for Sus- REBOOTING
THE SYNDROID
tainable SYSTEM
Growth

RETROVIVE:
Amplyfing
the echoes
of time.

TRANSCENDING
HORIZONS

19 5 FILIPINO YOUTH

It is from our contrymen that we most PSYSC and Goethe Institut share a unique
wholly source our motivation to give back interest in science learning through
and serve. We take every opportunity to
move the nation forward together. unconventional media. Their Science Film
Festival in SM Mall of Asia paved way
BASIC Outreach (Beginner’s Appreciation
of Science Clubbing Outreach) has been for artists, kids, and teachers to tap their
a long time venue for reaching out to our interest once again for an enjoyable and
fellow Filipinos from different backgrounds informative experience
and stories.
SCIENCE
HEART
PSYSC has actively been an advocate for
The organization’s unique heart and science education through the years. An
passion to serve has brought us to integral part of our events are workshops
partner with GK Tandang Sora, and to enhance participation and fun among
Hospicio de San Jose in Manila.
PSYSC was not only able to share new science clubbers.
knowledge but also experiences with
the participants. Our new partnership with DOW Chemicals
enables us to maximize our resources to
COMMUNITY
reach more people with new and relevant
With every event, we strive to make a community ideas.
of science enthusiasts of all ages who someday
might share our vision of making science clubbing CLUBBING
fun.
BLAST (Beginners’ Learning and Appreciation
The second installation of the PSYSC Library was of Science and Technology) in partnership
in Balabac, Palawan -- a remote area around the with SM was held at the SM Mall of Asia
beautiful islands of the Philippines. The photo
shows the representatives from Balabac National Exploreum with students from San Sebastian
High School with our Internal Affairs VP, Nissi College Recoletos. More than the museum,
Abigail Buenaobra the day was filled with workshops that
introduced non-affilated schools about the
joy of science clubbing.

Ano ang kwent “
“
“ Bahagi ako ng PSYSC since 2012, at sobrang proud
ako sa organization na ito. Labis kong ipinagmamalaki “
ang mga quality events na ibinibigay natin para sa
mga affiliates natin nationwide, at siyempre, sa mga
dedicated at passionate na volunteers. Magaan din
sa pakiramdam ang pagkakaroon ng pamilya sa loob
ng organisasyon. Organizing national events with
thousands of participants is a serious thing. I am
proud that I am part of an organization promoting
the public understanding of science, technology,
and the environment. Truly, I can say that “Once a
PSYSC, a PSYSC forever.
Joanna Mae Delos Reyes
“ (Batch 12A)
I already knew, back when I was a kid, that I was going to join this organization, I was
a participant of the National Children’s Science Interactive Workshops 2009, and from
thereon I wanted to be part of this organization that made great memories and instilled
a passion for learning about science, technology and environment in kids. The day I got
into UP Diliman, I immediately looked for the organization and how to join. Suddenly,
it was like a whirl that after the second semester I was already a NECAT or member of
the organization. Everything else from then were experiences that I will never forget,
from meeting old friends in national events, to bonding with kids as a facilitator in
CSIW, listening to the dreams of kids who want to help better their country in PSYSC’s
Basic Outreach Program (BASIC-O), to helping materialize these events as a staff and
core. PSYSC has helped me grow and learn aspects of myself that I would never have
known had I not joined the organization. It has also helped me broaden my horizons
and introduced me to the interesting people, teachers and students of the Philippines.
I’m happy that I became NECAT, and happy that I still am, because PSYSC is always
to equipping me with new friends, experiences and knowledge for the today and the
future.
Franklin Cercado
(Batch 14B)
“ Back in high school, I used to join all SUMMIT and
NYSTESC events because our school would always
be eager to sign up. Science camping events like these
don’t usually come to Iloilo that’s why whenever you
join PSYSC events, your classmates would really be
jealous of your experience because you get to travel
and at the same time make friends from different
parts of the country. Why I am proud to still be part
of PSYSC even in college, is the opportunity of being
a volunteer, sacrificing time and effort to deliver
quality events for our affiliates, and seeing smiles on
their faces making it worthwhile.

Kendra Gadong

20 (Batch 14A)

tong psysc mo?
“ Noong nasa HS pa ako, nirepresent ko yung school
ko sa PSO [at] nag-join na rin ako ng SUMMIT, that
moment, I realized na this org is so passionate in
organizing events for the youth to promote science
to think na college students sila. So I was inspired
“ and empowered. From there naging goal kong
“sumali sa PSYSC as a volunteer, and the rest is
“ PSYSC has been a part of my life since elementary, history.
when I first joined CSIW in Iloilo City, until high “ Joshua Kae Macugay
school, when I joined NYSTESC in Batangas City. (Batch 13A)
My experiences during that time really inspired me.
PSYSC is one of the reasons why I studied hard to
be able to pass at the University of the Philippines
Manila so that I can join the organization. Now that
I am a member of PSYSC, I am very grateful for
this opportunity to serve and share my talents to
the students and teachers who are participating
in the different events of the organization. All the
sleepless nights are worth it especially when you
know that everything that you are doing can inspire
and motivate the youth to value science even more
and also, there are many ECATs who are always
there to help and support you no matter what. I
hope that I can inspire elementary pupils and high
school students to continue to love science and be
part of PSYSC like what my ates and kuyas did to
me when I was their age. “ I have heard PSYSC since elementary school. With
Mayrell Ann Ravina its thrust—the public understanding of science,
(Batch 15) technology and the environment, I took the
chance to apply for this organization right away.
“ In the short while that I’ve been with PSYSC, I’ve Guess what? I’m already one of the people who
realized the immense potential that it has to make a organizes such huge and relevant national events
positive impact on the lives of countless students, of the nation!
brilliant young minds that will lead the nation in the
future. I’ve also come to know individuals whose Kael Benedict Banag
(Batch 16A)

passion and steadfast commitment to achieving
the goals of the organization are truly admirable
and inspiring, and it was a humbling experience to
have worked with them. As I near the end of my
brief journey with PSYSC, I can’t help but regret
that I hadn’t taken that leap of faith and become a
NECAT earlier, but I will always look back at these
days with pride and fondness.

Angel Gutierrez (Batch 16B)

21

Coral Triangle Initiative - South East Asia
I Interview by: Denise Janer

n August 2012, the Asian Development Bank and Global Environment Facility launched a regional project, the Coral Triangle Initiative-Southeast
Asia (CTI-SEA), which partners with the governments of Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines (CT3).

According to their website, ctisoutheastasia.wordpress.com, the project aims to improve the management of coastal and marine resources, to increase
the resilience of coastal and marine ecosystems and human communities in CT3, to develop alternative livelihood for poor coastal communities, and
to promote regional cooperation.

In this year’s edition of CATALYST, the Philippine Society of Youth Science Clubs, Inc. is given the honor of interviewing Ms. Dana Rose Salonoy,
Multimedia Content Creator for the Regional Technical Assistance, who has been actively working for the CTI-SEA project for four years already.

Have you always been an active advocate of Do you have any message that you might want to relay

environmental protection and people empowerment? to the youth to encourage and to inspire them to be as

I guess it came out naturally but I won’t say it was an enthusiastic towards your advocacy?
“active” type of advocacy from the very beginning. At
first it was like a quiet advocacy – doing something Young people especially those younger than me are
because I just have to do it. I won’t know how it already 10 times smarter than I am. The internet is a
actually began but I’d like to think it started when vast library young people spend their lives on. If you
I was really young, preference for mountains over want to feed your mind, then you mind what you feed
skyscrapers, weak spot for animals, and that familiar yourself and get surprised for the things ahead.
feeling living in the outskirts, as someone who grew up In the future, in case you might feel alone in this
in Southern Luzon. I think I’m just really privileged to journey, just continue doing the small things you do for
have a day job that addresses the things I care about. the Earth, whether it’s eating less meat, or refusing
And so now I get to actually intentionally design to use plastic cups. Life will find a way to get you
materials for awareness campaigns and facilitate together with the like-minded ones so you multiply the
youth empowerment programs with the CTI-Southeast fun.
Asia team of experts. I was doing things on my own
before…the simplest things. For example, taking care Have you always been an active advocate of environ-
of my trash, or getting really upset when visiting zoos
(I know you feel that too), but now I get to talk about mental protection and people empowerment?
these kinds of things too and that makes me really
happy. I guess it came out naturally but I won’t say it was an
“active” type of advocacy from the very beginning. At
Based on your experience, what is the reason you first it was like a quiet advocacy – doing something be-
cause I just have to do it. I won’t know how it actually
observed as to why environment-related issues are not began but I’d like to think it started when I was real-
ly young, preference for mountains over skyscrapers,
given as much attention in the social media? weak spot for animals, and that familiar feeling living
in the outskirts, as someone who grew up in South-
Your feed highly depends on the groups you follow on ern Luzon. I think I’m just really privileged to have a
social media. So if you follow a lot of tech, or a lot of day job that addresses the things I care about. And
art, or a lot of climate, you’re fed a lot of those. so now I get to actually intentionally design materials
for awareness campaigns and facilitate youth empow-
It’s not that environmental issues are not given as erment programs with the CTI-Southeast Asia team
much attention in social media, because certainly for of experts. I was doing things on my own before…the
people who follow a lot of environment, there’s a lot simplest things. For example, taking care of my trash,
of attention given to it. But if you’re asking why it’s or getting really upset when visiting zoos (I know you
not given much attention by the public in social media, feel that too), but now I get to talk about these kinds
it has to be because people follow what they love. of things too and that makes me really happy.
And that’s not a bad thing. You tend to love the topics
you’re most exposed to.

So for an environmental awareness advocate, you can

think of strategies to get more reach. I guess it starts

with knowing your audience and your goals, the very

basics of how to design your program. Whether for

social media or on the ground in local communities, you

identify your focus first. It shouldn’t always be for the

“public,” you can always start with a small community.

As for us, we targeted high schoolers and science club

members. 22

super ability turned reality Words by:
Fritz Parra

Everyday, we are bombarded with at such speed, their bodies must be
numerous tasks to accomplish. very resistant to extreme temperatures.
Perhaps we all wished that we Take for example a meteor entering the
have already mastered the art of Earth’s atmosphere, which accelerates
time management so we can easily and burns up as a result of the friction
balance the work and play. If only between the meteor and the air particles..
we can tweak our DNAs for a bit and However, man-made space shuttles do
mutate to become a real life The Flash not burn because of frictional heat due
and Quicksilver, what can go wrong? to the insulating material on the surface
Physics provides a solution, of the shuttle.
or simply an explanation to the Lastly, the most significant implication of
superhuman abilities of the fictional a very fast moving body is a pronounced
The Flash and Quicksilver. Looking at amount of strength. Remember
its physical sense, the consequences Newton’s First Law of Motion? Force is
are quite unimaginable. Consider a the product of mass and acceleration.
body moving through air with some Increasing acceleration increases the
velocity. It experiences a drag force force. Consequently, The Flash and
due to air resistance, and this drag Quicksilver must be very deadly in
increases exponentially with velocity. battle. One punch from either one of
So, for The Flash and Quicksilver to them would trigger huge momentum,
run faster, they must also exert an exerting a very large force upon contact.
exponentially increasing force to the More force, more power!
ground. This force is impossible to The Flash and Quicksilver’s superpowers
achieve for humans, which is why at are just imaginative ways to appreciate
normal speeds, the drag force is too Physics. As for getting things done in a
small that we don’t feel it at all. flash or balancing time to get through
Moreover, moving at very high everyday matters, it is a question of
speeds automatically implies the habit and priority. Perhaps, The Flash
presence of friction, which generates and Quicksilver are good reminders that
great amount of heat that can literally we can be superhuman too – in our own
burn the moving body. This means little human ways.
that for The Flash and Quicksilver to
perform

hPhRthtettopfpet:so/r/:ew/sn/fowcuuetwrsuc:.rekihsscmt:strhp..cot:t/or/pgmw://s/w/shucwotibwe.gantbechecer.ke-nb.aecedtoh..mpainhu/dp/tna-?fgetlaw=/tshsh1e//52-1f0la81s86h9-/0&1p-1ag9e/s=pi7derman-sticking-powers-not-possible-in-real-world/7096512?topic=tech

23

Seven
Wonder
Fruits In
The Words by:

Rogelio Jardeloza, Jr.

Philippines

Our country, the Philippines, is a tropical country
with a rich agriculture. Great agriculture leads
to a vast amount of fruit collection that will
engage your taste buds to a new experience.
Fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals and they also play
an important role in our economy. In 2014, the Bureau of
Agricultural Statistics (BAS) reported a 1.40% inched up
growth in the production performance in the agricultural sector.
This development made experts search for different
ways that would lead to innovations for the benefit of a whole
lot of Filipinos whose livelihood depends on the fruit industry.
Here is a list of seven lesser-known Philippine tropical
fruits which can be eaten raw or as processed goods such
as jelly, juice, jam, and wine that can possibly be used to
generate a new source of living and food security.

24

2 1
VitoafmianncdablrAi,ceissauadmanmernRd,lilicsephrxmilocmiatneaklesligecenna.rnfetrbsieoosrushohylmu,dryrcBaertbeeaaskdepfidrnueietasti,seTnahrGnaialaleaw,gnogdao-,rnsIdhanladisitpoae,gkdranofnordwuwistniMaanlwsath“yhoSsesiaela.PBufahlnitleugiassupnih-ugsgaialalrrspisiye.ctd”hgBrtiiohnigwna-nssniatkiniyo,nsxnihaerdduapbnustrsospluorefafntrdouitd,ark4 3
SaispistnyixpittehfeahooetefrtpicmsParaehhnenvridrcule’iespnbirspt.dstinrihsiteacehthaewsciedinaldenapvnrehgadlyrosotppocwbmecerheutreanrpmyitntiocotfaylpAselzs- of

knowwhinBtiferjoirubiitcasy ifclsreesaahmahynetadertxb-trsouhrwea.npesdeefdrsu.itIt iswith 5 6 7LipPlouptmue”ri,spolseIactolctsiuousorraasblnkmuinnteooxcsbwclteuHencbslloalteianemagncrsttskBeihsssiiace“n,ownosJupacdwlai,rrtyofmcoheiAerlsevouebtslirbitunoo.atsascfllwoItatytuehuVsnhoaairoiseflrttllpfayneusiumsSsusrlhougcpiipnroaa.selrmC.loytg.moeooannnteealuynntdrfraoaaluwizlnsedooirtisnmjiuxicy

Reference: http://www.filipiknow.net/rare-philippine-fruits/
https://psa.gov.ph/sites/default/files/Selected%20Statistics%20on%20Agriculture%202015.pdf
https://upcagolden2010.wordpress.com/2010/06/01/golden-profiles-roberto-e-coronel/
Photo sources: http://cliftonjohngalasinao.weebly.com/blog/the-healthy-bignay
http://filipinonurses.org/2012/03/sapinit-philippines-new-weapon-against-cancer/
http://philippinefruitsandnuts.blogspot.com/2014/06/hagis.html 25
http://bsagribusiness.blogspot.com/2013/10/potential-of-breadfruit-flour-may.html

References:
http://ffden-2.phys.uaf.edu/212_spring2011.web.dir/Benjamin_Lauritzen/Slide2.htm
http://www.moleculargastronomynetwork.com/18-additives/Liquid-Nitrogen.html
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/cryogenic-cooking/
http://herbivoracious.com/2010/03/using-dry-ice-to-carry-scent-culinary-fog.html

Words by: Jean Yun

SCIENCE IN THE KITCHEN:
NITROGEN COOKING

T his element has an atomic number of seven, and a molecular weight of around 28
g/mol. It composes roughly 78% of the air—making it the most abundant gas in
the atmosphere. What is this element?
Yes, it is nitrogen! One extremely interesting use of nitrogen—in its liquid state, is
for speedily freezing food. Any food, for that matter! To make liquid nitrogen, one must
first obtain nitrogen from liquefied air by employing fractional distillation, and then cool
the nitrogen gas below its melting point. Be careful when storing liquid nitrogen though! It
has to be kept in a cold place or container; it should be below room temperature. Because
if not, a closed container with liquefied nitrogen in it will explode.
Nitrogen cooking is a freezing technique not only used for the preservation of food,
but also for presenting food in artistic ways. You can use it to freeze liquid until it turns
com- pletely into solid or you can opt to freeze liquid until the outside is firm while the
inside is soft. It is all up to you! Today, liquid nitrogen is used in making ice cream, cooking
hamburgers, and basically it can be applied to any food you can think of.

26

Lapsang Souchong Japanese Pudding with cherry-smoked salt and drinking chocolate

27

Where and what to eat in davao and bataan

Words by: Calvin Clark Mafnas

F rom delectable finger foods and classic street favorites to exquisite and delicious local and international
foodstuff, we Filipinos just like having a bite to eat wherever we go even more so when it fits right in our
budget and the same goes for all our science clubbers across the Philippines. This year, we feature some of
the popular restaurants and food places found in both Davao and Bataan, the respective venues of our recently
concluded National Youth, Science, Technology and Environment Summer Camp (NYSTESC) and National
Children’s Science Interactive Workshop (NCSIW) for the year 2016. Let’s take a gander at these amazing
places and experience first-hand the rich culture and history of our country and the skill and creativity of their
people through the food they serve!

Kaonanan sa Tribu K’Mindanawan Rekado Filipino Comfort Cuisine
Rekado Davao is a relatively young
Looking for exotic food finds? establishment found in Davao City. True
Kaonanan sa Tribu K’Mindanawan is the to its name, Rekado Davao serves some
place for you. It is a tribal/ethnic themed of the best Filipino comfort cuisine in
restaurant that showcases the rich and the city including dessert and sparkling
diverse culture of the Mindanawans drinks. You can order a wide variety of
through food, people and design. A few dishes at Rekado. There are baby back
of their signature include the crocodile ribs, fresh lumpia, crispy tokwa’t tenga
sisig, bull meat stew or bulca chong, and some of the local favorites like
and palusebu. Aside from these, most gising-gising, crispy pork binagoongan
tourists visit this place for meals such and pinaputok na bangus with stuffed
as the Ostrich egg omelet, sizzling bat, niyog. Rekado Davao is a restaurant that
crocodile steak and wild pig humba. caters specially well for families. Each
Kaonanan sa Tribu K’Mindanawan is order served is good for 2-8 persons. The
located at the Davao Crocodile Park design and overall ambiance of the place
Complex at the Diversion Road in Davao makes you feel right at home.
City. Budget: 500-1500 (Good for 4 persons)
Budget: 1000-1500 (Good for 2 persons)
dAVAO
References and Photo credits: http://www.blissfulguro.com/2016/01/where-to-eat-in-bataan.html
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rmlf9WznFnE/Vkh59Ftwk9I/AAAAAAAANhY/W6TihIiSt7E/s1600/Rekado12.jpg 28
http://chooseweb.s3.amazonaws.com/raw/sungka8.jpg
http://www.lakadpilipinas.com/2016/02/lolengs-hu-tieu-an-bataan.html

The Beanery

The Beanery is a coffee shop and
restaurant found in Balanga City, Bataan
that serves some of the best coffee-
based products and desserts in town.
Aside from the usual coffee and desserts
that most coffee shops offer anywhere
else, The Beanery serves different kinds
of meals such as baby back ribs, buffalo
tenders, Asian sesame salad and shrimp
carbonara which are guaranteed to be
worth their value.
Budget: Php 100 – 500 (Good for 2
persons)

Stregato Gelateria Loleng’s Hu Tieu-an

Stregato Gelateria is located at Loleng’s Hu Tieu-an is a simple eatery in
Galeria Victoria in Balanga City, Bataan. Morong, Bataan that serves Vietnamese
It is known to be serving the best ice meals and dishes. The owner, is a Filipina
cream and gelato in town—from the who used to work in a refugee camp
classic chocolate and strawberry to other and has been delighting people with
more unique flavors such as, blueberry Vietnamese noodles with a Filipino twist
cheesecake, red velvet, mocha espresso, for over 15 years. Their best-seller is the
Ferrero, bubblegum and honey almond. hu tieu, a noodle dish, is served in a bowl
Aside from gelato, ice cream and cakes, of steaming hot pork broth, with a flurry
they also have pan fried herb chicken, of local veggies, and either chicken or
crispy potato skins, chicken valdostana, pork slices. It is also recommended to try
eight-hour roasted beef, grilled salmon other Vietnamese meals such as banh mi
and many more. thit nguoi (a bread with slices of ham and
Budget: Php 150 – 400 (Good for 2 dressing), bun tit nuong (another noodle
persons) dish), and cha gio (Vietnamese spring
rolls). Loleng’s Hu Tieu-an also serves
BATAAN some local dishes like palabok and pancit
in junction with their Vietnamese foods.

Budget: Php 35-50 per meal

29

MUSEUMS OF THGoing to museums in the Philippines does not
just satisfy our thirst for wanderlust but also exposes us to the
richness and grandness of human culture. Get quenched and
appreciate art with these beautiful museums!
Want instagrammable photos? The Pinto Art Museum is
just the place! Located in Antipolo, Rizal, The Pinto Art Museum is
an assemblage of art collections owned by neurologist Dr. Joven
Cuanang. With every side carefully crafted with fine details, the
museum is a piece of art itself. You don’t have to be a photographer
to get Instagram-worthy photos of the place. From its name, Pinto,
- the Filipino word for door - each door in this museum serves as
the gateway for modern and contemporary Filipino art leading
from one gallery to another. You can forget the countless hours
on the road and costly travel because this destination has a door
to your soul.
Bones are more than just a framework for our bodies.
Some people might think that roaming around a bone museum
is boring, but this one’s different. D’Bone Collector Museum
features a collection of skeletons of animal species from different
environments with each skeleton having its own story to tell. We
can find in this museum the skeletal remains of two rare sperm
whales, one of which is a long sperm whale, which is the largest
species of toothed whale. This museum raises environmental
awareness by telling us the how each animal lived and died by the
bones they left behind and by showing us how our actions impact
their lives. You would feel as if the bones are back to life! Get in
this museum and you’ll get out with a number of realizations.

30

HE PHILIPPINESWordsby:RizaLee

Huge fan of puzzles? The Puzzle Mansion
located in Tagaytay would be heaven for you! The
Puzzle Mansion houses the world’s largest jigsaw
collection owned by Gina Gil Lacuna. Each puzzle
in this museum was finished by Mommy Gina
herself. Her passion for puzzles got her to be the
Guinness World Records title holder for World’s
Largest Collection of Jigsaw Puzzles in Any Size,
Shape or Form in 2012. You would be surprised to
see that jigsaw puzzles can take shape not only in
2D, but also in 3D and 4D! According to doctors,
working on challenging puzzles exercise your brain.
The more work your brain does, the better off your
mind will be. Inspired to solve puzzles yet? Better
make Puzzle Mansion your go-to.
These are just a few of the many museums
in the Philippines that will open your heart to a
deeper appreciation of art and culture. Every youth
has a knack for adventure. Explore, visit museums
and you’ll never run out of things to learn.
If you want to live in the world of science,
go ahead and visit the Mind Museum in Taguig!
It’s not just your ordinary museum. In it are hands-
on, minds-on interactive science exhibits that will
make you learn science in the most enjoyable way
possible. It is comprised of five galleries – Atom,
Universe, Earth, Life, and Technology. A visit to this
museum would be an extraordinary experience and
inspires the public understanding of science. It is
definitely a museum for all ages!

31

PSYSC
aking inspirasyon upang
magampanan ang mga obligasyon

Photo by: Ron Marie Impuesto

Words by : Nichole Justine Jacildone pagkakaroon ko ng pribilehiyong makapagsalita sa
BHC Educational Ins. Inc. ngalan ng napakaraming mga kabataang nakiisa
sa kamping na iyon. Nabanggit ko ang mga bagay
Noong bata ako, tuwing bakasyon malaya na aming pagtutuunan ng pansin at babaguhin
akong nakakapaglaro sa labas ng bahay. para sa ikabubuti ng lahat. At nito lang nakaraang
Magtatakbuhan kami ng mga kalaro ko buwan ng Hulyo, kaming ilan sa mag-aaral ng BHC
sa damuhan at kapag napagod, magpapahinga Educational Ins. Inc. ay muling sumali at nakiisa
sa lilim na ibinibigay ng mga naglalakihang sa PSYSC. Hindi ko malilimutan ang karanasang
puno. Habang nakaupo ako napapaisip ako mabigyan ng “Laking PSYSC” award dahil sa
kung magiging ganito parin kaya kaganda at pagkakaloob nila nito sa akin, nangangahulugang
kalinis ang kapaligiran sa paglipas ng taon? binibigyang importansya nila ang aking taon-taong
paglahok at pakikiisa sa kanilang layunin.
Sa pagpasok ko ng hayskul, namulat ako sa
kahalagahan ng kapaligiran. Minsan na rin akong Muli akong babalik sa aking katanungan na
sumali ng Children’s Science Interactive Workshop “Magiging ganito pa rin kaya kaganda at kalinis ang
o CSIW at dito nag-umpisa ang pagkahilig ko sa kapaligiran sa paglipas ng mga taon?”. Marahil hindi
pagsali-sali sa mga “campings” lalo na ng PSYSC. na nga ngunit nang makilala ko ang PSYSC, hindi
Sumali rin ako sa Camp Iloilo noong taong 2015 at naging hadlang ang mga basura, polusyon at kung
sobrang dami kong natutunan. Mula sa pakikipag- ano-ano pang pahirap sa ating kalikasan, upang
kaibigan, pagiging aktibo at higit sa lahat sa mga mabuo ko ang aking pangarap para sa bayan. Bilang
pangaral nila tungkol sa kapaligiran, unti-unti isang “Laking PSYSC awardee”, buong puso kong
akong nabago. Tila ba nagkaroon ako ng matinding tinatanggap ang responsibilidad na inilaan para sa
pagmamahal sa kalikasan. Nabigyang daan ang akin. Isang malaking pasasalamat ang gusto kong
pagkakaroon ko ng pribilehiyong makapagsalita sa maipabatid sa lahat ng bumubuo ng PSYSC dahil
kayo ang nagtulak sa aking mapagtagumpayan
ang mga bagay na batid ko hindi ko kayang
magampanan.

32

HOW DOES

PSYSC

?inspire you

“Actually a lot, because it is one of the reasons where I was able to have new acquaintances,
new friends and new family. PSYSC developed me not only in Science and Math, but also
on how to socialize [and] interact with other people. Aside from its care to nature, PSYSC
enlightened my mind and my leadership. Through it, PSYSC taught me how to be a role model
in front of other youths. It also helped me, in my advocacy, to help the society and the next
generation. PSYSC does not just create leaders, it builds people ready for the challenges of the

[ [future.”
Lloyd Jewell Tejada
Regional Council Chairperson
ARMM Regional Science High School
ARMM

“I did not know about PSYSC until I reached Grade 7 and attended my first NSCM Summit in
Leyte. There, I learned science-related facts that I never thought existed and met “ates” and
“kuyas” from Regions VII and VIII. From then on, I attended more PSYSC events each year
and finally became part of the PSYSC Regional Council VII this year. Because of PSYSC, I was
able to go outside of my comfort zone, test my leadership capabilities and encounter different

[ [personalities from different cultures. PSYSC made me realize that there’s so much good things
that can be done together for science, with science.”

Reisha Ferraren

Regional Council Chairperson
Philippine Science High School -

Central Visayas Campus
Region 7

33

A Picture of the Future
Words by: Harvey Lor

T he science fiction genre shows the wildest imaginations of the human mind, having biggest what-ifs
of the world that everybody dares to question and everybody dares to defy. Remember Star Trek?
Back to the Future? Often, these films become inspiration for the creation of new technologies. There
has not been a bigger moment for science than now. The realizations of the then impossible show the
progress that we have achieved for the past few decades, thanks to visionaries. Who would have thought
that one day, we could talk face-to-face to another person living on the other side of the Earth on a device
that is smaller than our own hands? Who would have thought that one day, we could travel beyond our
solar system and discover what the universe has to offer?
Sometimes, you cannot help but ask, “At this rate, what can we not do?”
Here are some notable science fiction-inspired inventions that may soon be brought to full fruition…or
sooner than we expect.
Teleportation
Teleportation is defined as the transfer of an object from one point to another without traversing
the physical space between them. Familiar with X-Men’s Nightcrawler? Dragon Ball’s Son Goku? It’s a
wonderful concept that is worth pondering because if realized, we would be able to travel more quickly
and easily. In 2010, physicists from China were successful in making this happen in the subatomic level.
They teleported photons over a distance of 97 kilometers with the help of the phenomenon called quantum
entanglement. It basically tells us that two particles can be deeply linked to each other even if separated
by great distances, making it possible for them to interact with, and affect each other.

Invisibility
There are times when you wish you could just hide from everything. The Harry Potter world once
delighted with this by using the cloak of invisibility; and let’s not forget Violet from The Incredibles.
Apparently, there is science behind this “magic”, and its technology will surely change the way we see
(or not see) things. Researchers from the University of Texas used the “mirage effect” to create their own
version of the cloak. They used carbon nanotubes (which conducts heat) as photo-deflectors. By bending
the light around them, they were able to hide the sheet of material they were experimenting on. Other
studies used what they call metamaterials, which are capable of manipulating wavelengths of light in ways
that doesn’t happen in nature.
Time Travel
This is still one of the most favorite plot devices in science fiction. Although it has been told in a
lot of stories already, it continues to spark interest in people because of its classic premise that allows the
main characters to manipulate how their life unfolds. Albert Einstein and Nathan Rosen once suggested
the existence of wormholes – “bridges” that link two different points in the space-time. Black holes are
also said to be natural time machines because of their immense gravitational forces which could warp
time. Although there are arguments that a lot of paradoxes may occur during time travel, the existence of
a multiverse or alternate universes have also been suggested which tells us that there are many versions
of our universe and ourselves. For the reasons stated earlier, and for various others too many to mention,
scientists continue to search for ways on how to make it happen despite its difficulty and we couldn’t wait
for it, even if it’s not in our lifetime.
The things mentioned above are bound to come in the future, near or far. And although the progress
may seem slow now, they are undoubtedly meaningful beginnings. As science fiction expands, we expect
more innovations and ideas to be made, and with a lot of hard work and maybe a little bit of luck, our
species will someday make what now appears to be impossible within our grasp.

34

35

Reference: http://cotap.org/reduce-carbon-footprint/ TCaakribnognafosomtparlilnetrs:step
https://climatecare.org/50-ideas-for-shrinking-your-carbon-footprint/ Words by: Jackielyn Larosa

H umans are the prime residents of Earth who
throughout the years discovered and innovated
countless things that have led to modernity
and economic growth. Today, we live in comfort
and ease as a results of our forefathers’ efforts.
Unfortunately, with technological advances come
environmental risks that scientists and inventors
alike did not foresee, and now threaten the
well-being of our planet and all its inhabitants.
One of the primary contributors to the
destruction of our planet is its temperature increase,
more commonly known as climate change. This
is mostly the works of our carbon footprint, or
the amount of greenhouse gas we emit caused by
certain activities such as using purchased electricity.
Therefore, lessening our carbon footprint through
collective action could downgrade climate change on
a large scale.
On the matter of conserving heat and
electricity, we may opt to switch to energy saving
light bulbs since it can last around 10 times than
ordinary bulbs, and cost a lot cheaper than the
alternative. Moreover, we can add solar panels in your
roofs. Using solar energy rather than conventional
energy is much greener and more sustainable. To cut
energy use further, after washing clothes, hang them
outside and let the sun do its magic. This is more
Earth-friendly than using electric dryers which rely on
non-renewable energy.
On water conservation, use a smaller saucepan
that can hold the amount you need. Also, lessen the
usage of kitchen materials when preparing meals as
doing so would trim water usage when washing them
after use, lessening its environmental impact.
On food, enjoying locally produced organic
food compared to eating meat and dairy is less
energy consuming and more ecological. It takes a lot
of resources to grow meat, most of which lead to
deforestation, which greatly contributes to the ozone
layer’s depletion. As such, this situation is in dire
need of reformation.
No one is too small or too inferior to do
something to save Mother Earth. We can help in some
ways possible and start from there. Our little steps
could change the world, one smaller carbon footprint
at a time.

36

climate change projection

Words by: Jamie Gonzales

H ave you ever noticed how over the recent years, a new record is set for the
highest felt temperature (formally, apparent temperature) within days of the
previous peak? Or maybe how painstakingly fluctuating the weather has
become, so much so that it began to challenge what we know about natural
calamities and disasters? One way or another, you must have noticed how
the supposed cool months have broken their promise of providing
refreshing bursts of chilly air, right? If this doesn’t strike you as
something alarming, open your eyes because it is.

According to a book entitled Climate Change 2013:
The Physical Science Basis, “global mean temperatures
will continue to rise over the 21st century if greenhouse
gas (GHG) emissions continue unabated” (Stocker,
Qin, Plattner, Tignor, Allen, Boschung, & Midgley,
2013, p. 1031). With “high confidence”, the authors
pointed out that the warming of our planet will not
be equal in intensity for all parts of the world, as
the Arctic region is said to experience more
of its effects. This is due to a phenomenon
called polar amplification or the tendency of
warming and cooling to happen significantly
stronger at high latitudes. Because of
this, snowcaps and glaciers melt, thus
affecting a wide array of things including
changes in marine and polar habitats,
and fluctuations in hydrologic systems
(i.e., interrelated processes of water
transport, distribution, and phase change)
– something that, at the rate it has right
now, is projected to reduce the Arctic sea
ice cover to nothingness by the half of the
21st century. In a nutshell, this encapsulates
the destruction of polar bears’ and seals’ homes,
as well as the decline of the quantity and quality of
water resources.

Consequently, our overall quality of life would be greatly compromised as an
onset of unpredictable climate extremes covers land across regions: drought would
make crop fields yield less and less viable products, heat waves distress and/or kill
animals, and flooding would expose ecosystems to vulnerabilities.

Have you ever noticed how these things are of our own doing? Or how much
of a head start we could give the people who would continue rebuilding our home
for us? So go ahead, tend to this garden of a planet, even if its fruits grow when
you’re no longer there to see it.

37 References:
Lee, S. (2014). A theory for polar amplification from a general circulation perspective. Asia-Pacific

Journal of Atmospheric Sciences,50(1), 31-43. doi:10.1007/s13143-014-0024-7
Stocker, T. F., Qin, D., Plattner, G., Tignor, M. M., Allen, S. K., Boschung, J., & Midgley, P. M.
(2013). Climate change 2013: the physical science basis.: Contribution of Working Group I to

the Fifth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Cambridge:
Cambridge University Press.

Going Digital:
Libraries in your Pocket

W Words by: Nikko Dela Rosa
e have been living in a digital world spectrum where electronic media is a basic necessity.
Our reliance on the use of the Internet and modern technology is evident on how we
live, communicate, and adapt on replacing tasks from their tedious acts to their simplest and
most convenient forms. An example of which is on how our way of reading evolved from the burden
of carrying heavy books of limited number to bringing a whole library inside our own pockets. In this
tech-savvy world, electronic books or commonly known as E-Books upgrade your wonted and usual
page-by-page flip to a whole new level! Here are some of the e-book reader applications you can
download on your own gadgets for free! A whole new reading experience is just a click away. Enjoy!

Kindle is a Nook has over a thousand Aldiko Book Reader
customizable multi- magazines and newspapers has been around for
platform e-book which adds a lot of extra stuff a long time with a
reader featuring a to read. The app works pretty decent interface and it
diverse reader and well but is a bit basic in a few is an excellent option
library management aspects. for those looking for
capacity. More than something solid that
a million titles are works. It features
available from the support for encrypted
latest bestsellers to e-books as well as
free classics. support for books rented
from public libraries.

Bluefire is a clean and EBookDroid is an e-reader
versatile e-book reader that focuses mainly on
that handles EPUB and PDF and DJVU files. For
PDF files, with support those looking for e-book
for annotations and reader applications that
Adobe Content Server read textbooks may find
DRM. Bluefire has a EBookDroid handy. It comes
clean, customizable with some formatting
viewer that allows you options to help give you
to set text size, margin the most comfortable
widths, and themes. reading experience.

FullReader+ is a new
developed e-book
reader space. It FB Reader for Android
supports over a dozen devices supports EPUB,
formats and comes RTF, DOC, HTML, MOBI
with a decent design and other formats.
that get jobs done. This Users can manage text
application allows you fonts, size, hyphenation,
to create reminders text colors and
for yourself when it is backgrounds, margins,
already time to stop page animations and
reading. more

38

Laptop Guide for
students

Words by: Hahns Genato

L aptops have become a detrimental factor in the academe because of the movement to go
digital. It is understood that choosing the best one is somewhat difficult. You have
different features, design, brands and especially price points. As a student you need to
have the right balance of performance, design and affordability.

Dell Inspiron 7000 2-in-1

If you have more money to spend but you don’t
want to step in the high-end category then this
laptop is for you.
Pros: Accurate Trackpad |Configurable Processors from
CoreM to Dual Core Corei5 | Touchscreen | 360 rotating
hinge for different usage modes | 256GB SSD
Cons: A little bit pricey | Hard to see because of golly
screen | Bad power button placement |Below average
battery life

Lenovo IdeaPad 100s

If you are in a tight budget and you only need to
accomplish basic tasks like web browsing, and
using Microsoft word, powerpoint or excel then this
laptop can be one of your choices. In addition to
that it also comes with a free 1 year subscription
of Microsoft Office 365.
Pros: Best Keyboard for the price | Cheapest in the list
| Faster processor compared to budget laptop in the
same range |Enough Battery life to get you through the
day
Cons: Finicky Touchpad | Not suitable for intense work
like Video and photo editing

Dell XPS 13

One of the best laptops out there that can handle
everything you throw at it.
Pros: Near edge-to-edge display | Fantastic keyboard
| Latest Intel Kaby Lake Processor |Beautiful Display
QHD resolution | Small, compact and really portable

Cons: Webcam is awkwardly place because of the

screen to bezel ratio |Shorter battery life compare to
competitors because of screen resolution

Reference: http://www.laptopmag.com/reviews/laptops/hp-stream-11
http://www.techradar.com/news/mobile-computing/laptops/laptop-deals-cheap-laptops-1296090
https://www.google.com.ph/search?q=best+cheap+laptop&oq=best+cheap+laptop+&aqs=chrome..69i57j69i60l3j69i59j69i60.4536j0j9&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8>

39

Biodegradable
shoes?

3d printing “This is a pioneering stride forward beyond
sustainability into a new territory of bionic

innovation.”

-CEO & Vice President for Strategy and Creations
“The sports shoes…developed together with
Adidas are the first products worldwide with
a high-performance material made of nature
identical silk biopolymers. With this development,
we are setting new standards regarding the

functionality of renewable textiles.”
-Jens Klein, AMSilk CEO

BIOSTEEL UPPER

NATURE- IDENTICAL BIOPOLYMER

Ultraboost sole Recycled waste from the sea

Reference: http://news.adidas.com/us/Latest-News/adidas-unveils-world-s-first-perfor-
mance-shoe--made-from-biosteel--fiber/s/88ed218c-68a0-43ba-9ce2-4e87bce30652

40

CATALYST

XVI

A.O. Floirendo National High School Davao Oriental Regional Science High School
ABC Educational Development Center Del Carmen School of Veterans Quezon City
AMA -TALO Elementary School Dela Salle Andres Soriano Memorial College
Agusan National High School Diaz Elementary School
Agusan del Sur National High School Diffun High School
Agusan del Sur National Science High School Digos City National High School
Albert Einstein School Divisoria National High School
Alegria National High School Dominador D. Clemente Academy,Inc.
Amando A. Fabio National High School Don Eulogio De Guzman Memorial National High School
Amir Bara Lidasan National High School Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University - NLUC Elementary
Amontay Elementary School Laboratory School
Anao-Aon Central Elementary School Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University - Mid-La Union Campus
Andres Bonifacio Elementary School Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University- SLUC
Aquinas University Science High School Don Mariano Marcos National High School
Arturo Eustaquio Memorial Science High School Don Ramon E.Costales Memorial National High School
Asinan Elementary School Doña Aurora National High School
Assumption College San Lorenzo Doña Hortencia Salas Benedicto National High School
Ateneo de Davao University High School Dr. Gerardo Sabal Memorial High School
Ateneo de Zamboanga University - Elem Dept. Dumabato Integrated School
Ateneo de Zamboanga University -High School Elyon Academia Foundation, Inc.
Aurora National High School Enhanced Childhood Learning Center, Inc.
BHC Educational Institution, Inc. Falcon Memorial Elementary School
Baao National High School Father Saturnino Urios University Archbishop Carmelo F. Morelos Campus
Bacolod Tay Tung High School Felisberto Verano National High School
Baguio Pines Family Learning Center (BPFLC) Ferndale International School
Balabac Central School Filamer Christian University
Balabac National High School Fulbright Science School
Balabac National High School-Agutayan Annex Gulac Elementary School
Balabac National High School-Ramos Annex Guribang Elementary School
Balabac National High School-Salang Annex Gusa Regional Science High School
Balite National High School Hinatuan National Comprehensive High School
Banbanon Elementary School Holy Child Academy
Bancalaan National High School/Bancalaan Elementary School Holy Infant Academy -HS Dept.
Bansa National High School Holy Infant Academy- Elementary Dept.
Banza Elementary School Honrado Elementary School
Barotac Viejo National High School Ilagan Sports High School
Batangas National High School Ilocos Norte College of Arts and Trades
Bayugan National Comprehensive High School Iloilo National High School - School of the Future
Benigno V. Aldana National High School Iloilo National High School - Special Science Class
Bicol Regional Science High School Immaculate Heart of Mary College- Parañaque
Bintawan North Elementary School Indalawan Elementary School
Blessed Exodus Christian Academy Initao National Comprehensive High School
Blessed Sacrament Catholic School James L. Gordon Integrated School
Bual RamosElementary School Joroan National High School
Buenavista National High School Jose Sanvictores Sr.National School
Buhatan Integrated National School Juan G. Macaraeg National High School
Bunawan National High School Jubgan Elementary School
Burgos National High School Kabacan Pilot Central School
Butuan City Special Education Center Kabasalan National High School
Buug National High School Kalawaan Elementary School  
Cabarroguis Central School Kalayaan National High School
Campo National High School Kaligayahan Elementary School
Canossa School Katipunan National High School
Cantilan National High School LIDE Learning Center, Inc.
Capitol University Basic Education Department La Purisima National High School
Caraga Regional Science High School La Salle College Antipolo
Caritas Don Bosco School La Salle Green Hills
Carrascal National High School La Union Colleges of Science and Technology, Inc.
Casa del Bambino Emmanuel Montessori La Union National High School
Casiguran Technical Vocational School Looc National High School
Catanduanes State Colleges -Lab School-Elem Dept Lorma Colleges Special Science High School
Catanduanes State Colleges -Lab School-HS Dept Luna National High School
Cauayan City National High School Luzon National High School
Cauayan North Central School Lyceum of Aparri
Cavite State University-Child Devt.Center Lyceum of Apparri -Elementary Dept.
Central Philippine University Elementary School MMSU - Laboratory Elementary School - Laoag
Claret School of Quezon City Macalong Elementary School
Claret School of Zamboanga Maddela Comprehensive High School
Clarin National High School Magallanes National High School
Colegio San Agustin - Biñan Maigo Central Elementary School
College of the Immaculate Conception Malasin Elementary School
Compostela National High School Malued Elementary School
Cor Jesu College-Basic Education Department Mandaue City Science High School
Cordillera Regional Science High School Manukan National High School
Cordon South Central School Marcelo Spinola School
Corpus Christi School - Pueblo Campus Margarita K. Yusingco National High School
Cotabato City State Polytechnic College - Laboratory High School Maria Aurora Central School
Cristobal Conducto Memorial National High School Mariano Marcos State University - LHS (Science Curriculum)
Culianan National High school Mariano Marcos State University Laboratory School -Laoag City
Curuan National High School Mariano Marcos State University- Integrated University Laboratory Schools-
Dapitan City National High School Elem Dept.
Dasmariñas II Central School Maryknoll High School of Sto. Tomas
Davao City National High School Mataas Na Paaralang Juan C. Laya

Matho National High School Siargao National Science High School
Mati National Comprehensive High School Sicayab National High School
Miriam College Lower School Sinait National High School
Miriam College Midlle School Sinonoc National High School
Misamis Oriental General Comprehensive High School Sorsogon National High School
Nabua National High School Sorsogon Pilot Elementary School
Nabunturan National Comprehensive High School Southernside Montessori School
Nagpayong High School Southville Internatinal School and College
Naguilian National High School Speaker Eugenio Perez National Agricultural School
Napo Elementary School Special Education Center for the Gifted
Negros Occidental National Science High School St. Anthony of Makati Montessori Inc.
New Jerusalem School St. Claire Montessori School of Tuguegarao
Noli National High School St. Joseph College - Olongapo Inc.
Notre Dame of Cotabato St. Joseph School
Oriental Mindoro National High School St. Mary’s College Quezon City
Oslao Elementary School Sta. Cruz Elementary School
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School Stella Maris Academy of Davao
PAREF Woodrose School Sto. Niño Catholic School
Paco Catholic School Sultan Kudarat State University - Science Laboratory High School
Pagadian City National Comprehensive High School Surigao del Norte National High School
Palawan State University-Laboratory Elementary School Tabaco National High School
Palawan State University-Laboratory High School Tabaco Northwest Central School
Panabo Central Elementary School SPED Center Tabaco South Central Elementary School
Panabo National High School Tagbina National High School
Pantukan National High School Tagum City National Comprehensive High School
Pedro Oloy N. Roa Sr. National High School Tagum City National High School
Philippine Normal University - Agusan Campus Tagum National Trade School
Philippine Science High School - Bicol Region Campus Talibon Central Elementary School
Philippine Science High School - Cagayan Valley Campus Tambo Central School
Philippine Science High School - Central Luzon Campus Tandag National Science High School
Philippine Science High School - Central Mindanao Campus Tangub City National High School
Philippine Science High School - Eastern Visayas Campus Tarlac National High School(main)
Philippine Science High School - Ilocos Region Campus Tayug National High School
Philippine Science High School - Southern Mindanao Campus Tañong Integrated School
Philippine Science High School - Western Visayas Campus The Learning Tree Child Growth Center
Pintong Gubat Elementary School The Learning Tree Child Growth Center Inc.
Placer National High School Trento National High School
Pres. Manuel A. Roxas Memorial School -South Tubod Central Elementary School
Primemont Science School Tubod National High School
Punta National High School Tugbungan Elementary School
Purisima Diocesan School,Inc. Umingan Central National High School
Quirino General High School Unidad National High School
Quirino National High School University Laboratory School-University of Southern Mindanao
Ramon Magsaysay Technological University University of La Salette High School
Ramon National High School University of Batangas High School Department
Ramon Torres National High School University of La Salette High School
Raniag High School University of Northern Philippines
Regional Science High School III University of Perpetual Help System - Laguna
Regional Science High School for R-IX University of Perpetual Help System -DALTA
Rizal Elementary School University of Saint Anthony
Rizal Integrated National School University of The East Manila - High School Dept
Rizal Memorial Colleges University of the East Manila- Elementary School
Rizal Standard Academy University of the East-Caloocan
Rosario Integrated School University of the Philippines High School in Iloilo
Roxas National High School Urdaneta City National High School-Learning Resource Center
SPED - Integrated School for Exceptional Children Valenzuela City School of Mathematics and Science
Saint Ferdinand College- HS Dept Victoria High School
Saint Francis of Asisi College-Southwoods Campus Vitali National High School
Saint Francis of Assisi College Watwat Elemetary School
Saint Francis of Assisi College-Alabang Wesleyan University - Philippines
Saint James High School Western Mindanao State University Integrated Laboratory School
Saint Jude Catholic School -Elementary Dept.
Saint Louis University - Laboratory High School Xavier School
Saint Mary’s University-High School and Science High School Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan (HS)
Saint Michael’s School Zamboanga Chong Hua High School
Saint Pedro Poveda College Zamboanga City High School - Main
Salug National High School Zamboanga National High School - West
Salvacion Elementary School Zamboanga Sibugay National High School
San Antonio de Padua College Zamboanga del Norte National High School
San Beda College Zamboanga del Sur National High School
San Beda College - Alabang
San Estanislao Kostka College 485 Affiliate schools
San Isidro National High School 114,497 members
San Jose National High School
San Miguel National Comprehensive High School 2,323 Teachers
San Miguel National High School
San Pablo City Science High School
Sanchez Mira Institute of Lifelong Education
Santa Rosa Elementary School Central 1
Santa Rosa Elementary School Central 3
Santo Tomas National High School

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The Concerted Action Towards Active Leadership of the Youth in Science and Technology (CATALYST) is published by the Pambansang Kapisanan
ng mga Kabataan Samahan sa Agham (Philippine Society of Youth Science Clubs), Inc.

This year’s issue is one of the several benefits received by the science club affiliates. Printed in the Republic of the Philippines. No part of this
publication may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without the formal consent from all the editors. All rights reserved.