329

330

Maris Roja T. Alano

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

Invictus Spiritus
By: Paolo Supeña

Like flowers on a summer’s day she blooms

Like stars in the night sky she shines
Like dreams elusive she is an Enigma
With the passion and the determination to save
… and an Unconquerable Spirit
 331

Lorenzo E. Alvior III

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

If thou wilt make a man happy, add not unto his riches but
take away from his desires. – Epicurus
332

Jayson Vincent C. Angeles

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

To live without Jayson is unimaginable. Once you let him

into your world, there is no turning back, you had better
be ready to face the fact that you would never want to let
him go. Jayson has magical powers that even if it seems
that the sky has fallen down, he can make you stop crying
and before you know it, you are able to smile again. He is
always willing to hear you out and be the shoulder you can
always lean on, but just in case you need a reality check,
he would gladly give you one. You can argue with him but
he will make so much sense that in end, you would realize
that life is not all black and white, it has gray areas and
color too. He is the best friend anyone could ask for. He is
an angel… Truly heaven sent.
 333

Angela Cherie G. Aninao

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

Angela Cherie is in the house, y’all!

Angie seems to have it all out there -- that mischievous

smile, that insane laughter, and those outrageous lambing
techniques. That kid-like outgoing is only the melted
cinnamon on the roll. Angie goes out of her way to cozy
up with her friends at any classy Katipunan cafe, makes
them feel comfy and wanted, just to be in the know of
what’s up with them. Having a lot going on for her with her
thesis, Ange still makes friends a big part of her everyday
life. That mischievous smile -- is a home where her friends
can stay…
334

Richelle K. Arjona
BS Physics with Computer Engineering

If research has found out that people who love dogs are
thoughtful, loving, and caring, then she must have been
one of their subjects, for her existence is equated with
canines.

If the Hindus are right that reincarnation exists, then she

must have been a hanky or a teddy in her past life, for she
can dry your tears well and hug you to comfort during your
low times.

If laughter is the medicine, then she must be one heck of a

serotonin-stimulant, for she can let you chuckle and giggle
with her goofy tales and confessions.

And if love is something to be earned, then I’d labor for hers

even if it would take me a lifetime, for I know precisely
what a blessing it is to be loved by her—simply the best.
 335

Anna Veronica C. Baterina

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

Guitar. This is one musical instrument that you will find

Nikka engrossed with when she is at home. Quite adept
she is with it considering that guitar-playing is a self-
learned skill. If not doing web-research or chatting online,
she would be in front of the computer downloading music
and guitar tabs.

Simplicity would be a fitting caption to a photograph of

Nikka contentedly embracing her guitar like a baby sister.
Simplicity also defines part of her lifestyle. Sans make-up,
she feels most comfortable in jeans and T-shirts.

A DOST scholar, this diligent student enjoys tackling

her double-degree course: Physics with Computer
Engineering.
336

Christopher B. Biasbas
BS Physics with Computer Engineering

The goody-goody, mature and cultured “Chris” described in

the previous Aegis does not quite capture the totality of this
person’s character. Some details, like the following, were
mysteriously left out:

1. Chris despises pop icons from the Backstreet Boys to the

Viva Hot Babes, but spends some free time figuring out the
chords of novelty songs like “Instant Ayos” so he could also
play while singing them.
2. This “cultured” guy is one of the corniest people you
could ever meet. He actually exerts much effort trying to
spontaneously cook up corny side-comments and jokes. For
him it’s funny being corny.
3. When not being the mature life-and-love counselor, Chris is
a wild and playful kid. Get him in a swimming pool and see.
Yes, Chris is absolutely weird. But that’s alright, his friends
would say. Cultured or “jologs”, mature or childlike—they love
him all the same.
 337

Sarah L. Bragais
BS Physics with Computer Engineering

SPOILED. Funny because it took her a while to admit that

she’s spoiled.
OPTIMISTIC. Since she gets almost everything she wants,
she believes that with enough perseverance plus extra
hard work, nothing is impossible.
FUNNY. There is never a dull moment with her, the girl with
the contagious laugh.
SMART. She won’t admit it, but she enjoys intellectual
conversations. She appreciates people she can talk to
about more than just boys and show business.
SOFT. She cries easily. And when she does, she gives as
much passion in crying as in laughing.
INDEPENDENT. She’s been looking after herself since
college.
ADVENTUROUS. She’ll go anywhere and do anything in an
instant.
SIMPLE. It doesn’t have to be a class restaurant. It doesn’t
have to be a fast car. It doesn’t have to be an expensive gift.
She’s not cheap, more like a practical cowgirl, with taste.
338

Jeleen E. Cabalona
BS Physics with Computer Engineering

Charming, witty, industrious, dependable, intelligent…

Just a glimpse of the vast array of pleasant characteristics
possessed by this gifted creature named Jeleen. Although
the top student from the batch 2001 graduating class of
Philippine Science High School in the Eastern Visayas, one
cannot see the tiniest tinge of arrogance from Jeleen. In
fact, she appears timid and silent to those who do not
know her. But really, looks can be deceiving. Jeleen is one
of the fun-loving people from the class. She has the talent
of conjuring the wittiest of jokes even from the simplest of
comments. Inside the circuits laboratory, Jeleen can wire-
up logic gates in a flash. She dreams of working for the
National Aeronautics and Space Administration someday.
On campus, Jeleen is not only a responsible student but
is also a dedicated officer of a school organization. Off-
campus, Jeleen’s extra-curricular activity would be malls,
malls, malls. This girl has her ways of knowing when and
where good sale offers exist. Nevertheless, she seems to
have her Achilles heel on Nike products. Around, it is as if
her hearts says, “Just do it.”
 339

Vernice T. Casareno
BS Physics with Computer Engineering

She’s simple and quite ironic. When she said she can’t lend
you a hand, she’d actually be the first to rush by your side.
When she gets mad at you, just wait a few minutes and
she’ll forget her fury. When she said “nakakainis ka”, it
means she really is fond of you. When she’s in high spirits,
try to keep some distance from her. She’ll most likely hit
your arm with what she describes as “light” pats until it
bleeds. Is she really nice? Ver-y-nice. This bedimpled girl is
not one who would holler a huge hello when she runs into
her friends. She’s quiet most of the time and it takes her a
while to open up to a new friend. Though you’d most likely
take her as mataray, you’d be surprised to see a person
who’s selfless and a natural malambing in her own silly
ways. She has the strength to stand up for her friends even
if it sometimes gets her into trouble and she always finds
time to surprise or do something “special” for them. This
girl lives up to her name. She’s Nice, she’s special and she’ll
always be dear to us.
340

Joyce Christine A. Castillo

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

Joyce Christine Alba Castillo. While you may know her as

Joyce, she has always been Ems or Emis to me. Aside from
being my only best friend ever, she has also been a great
inspiration in my life.

Well, this lady is the type you get jealous of. She’s one of
those who make you want to ask if God is really fair. Yes,
she both has brains and beauty, and of course, a pure heart…
well, maybe not as pure as you may think. But seriously,
she’s an all-around gal. I mean, where do you find someone
who knows calculus, basketball, cooking and fashion all at
the same time? Yes she knows all four with equal expertise
and yet, with a humble heart. I’m not trying to advertise her
or anything, but she’s really one of a kind. She’s the kind
that makes you smile, laugh, fume, love, cry, remember…
Yes, she’s someone who makes things more memorable,
someone who makes your journey in life richer.
 341

Rachelle Marie C. Dela Rama

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

There is nothing that can disarm a person more than a

warm smile radiating from a sweet and friendly face.
This is the Rachelle that everyone remembers. She lives
life welcoming those around her with her kindness, her
sweetness, her disarming smile, add to those her palengkera
laugh and surely everyone will feel at ease. She is that
unique mix of a kikay, shop-like-crazy, vain, nerd, Kimi-
worshipping F1 fanatic, kind of girl. If that seems an unlikely
mix already, has it already been mentioned that she is a
Taekwondo black belter and a member of the varsity team
since her high school days? Well if all this seems a little too
intimidating, some comfort might be found in the fact that
Rachelle might just probably be the most affectionate and
sweet girl one will ever meet. So what kind of a person is
Rachelle really? No one really seems to know. But there is
one thing everyone agrees on, no one will want her to be
any other way.
342

Ma. Fatima Johara R. de Lara

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

Fatima’s the only person in the Ateneo who would kill

herself studying Physics with Computer Engineering just
to become a writer. If I didn’t know her better, I’d say she’s
crazy. She was a silver medalist of Manila Science High
School—which is equivalent to saying that she was trained
to be good at being eccentric. But her quirky character is
admirable.

Fatima’s sense of responsibility is her secret weapon

for surviving in her course. Also, while she easily gets a
B+ for a crammed paper, her peers are struggling just to
get a C! She’s a natural writer that taking up any course
doesn’t harm her potentials of becoming an outstanding
journalist. But above all these blessings, Fatima remains as
the lovable, sincere, caring and funny person to her friends.
To her loved ones, Fatima’s the best gift they could ever
ask for. “I am a woman, hear me roar” is one of Fatima’s
favorite quotes. The whole world better watch out for her!
—written by Krishna Pabalan
 343

Joseph Patrick D. Echevarria

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

There are 6 billion people in the world, but how many do

you know
a. are willing to volunteer to be a hit and run victim outside
Gate 3 just to prove to the MMDA that we need a pedestrian
lane?
b. can explain the theory of relativity and link it to
Shakespeare?
c. have read Fr. Reuter’s At 3:00 AM 57 times?
d. can be both nerd and chickboy at the same time?
e. would rather treat you to a 3-course dinner at Max’s than
have you treat him to a cup of coffee?
f. whose idea of a gimmick is a one-on-one conversation at
Seattle’s Best about the meaning of life?
g. who’s 22 going on 52?
Once in a while you find someone who’s genuinely happy
with life. If you’re lucky, you’d find someone who’s in love
with every minute of every day. Then there are those that
perhaps come only once in a lifetime. God must really be
on our side. (by Elsa Magtibay)
344

Carlos Alphonso F. Ezequiel

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

The time I had spent as a student of Ateneo was one of the

most challenging and enriching experiences of my life. Not
only did I learn to appreciate the rigors of academic life, I
also found value in participating in some of the organizations
and athletic clubs of the university. I had always believed
in the principle of a sound mind in a sound body. Despite
focusing most of my efforts towards study, I always spend
a little amount of time each day to exercise. Basketball
is my preferred sport, but I also enjoy doing tai-chi, yoga
and weight training when I have the free time. I am the
type of person that doesn’t quit easily until a certain task is
completed. I often lose sleep making sure that the work is
already as good as it can possibly get. I believe that there
is never enough time to do all the things we have to do,
but we can devote our time to doing the most important
thing. If we follow our hearts towards what we want to
be instead of what we’d like to have, then I think we would
achieve a certain sense of liberty.
 345

Feliz Grace D. Flores

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

In a block so boisterous, and jovial, the shy ones can so

easily be overlooked. Feliz, however, has never had this
problem. Though she may be one of the most reserved
in our course, her unassuming nature and her endearing
personality makes her as conspicuous as the rest of us who
choose to wreak havoc on the hallowed halls of Faura. She
is the voice of reason, the silent conscience of the group,
yet always ready to join in the fray when the moment
calls for her to do so. Feliz has a heart so much bigger
than her body, so big that most of the time, it spills over
to those around her. She is the kind of student so many
teachers would dream of having: responsible, diligent, and
determined, even if the odds are piled against her. It is no
big surprise, therefore, that she usually comes out of them
unscathed. Shy, she most certainly is. But, nonetheless,
she possesses a strength that can only come from an
innate goodness deep within. A good that you’d rarely see
in people nowadays, but you’d certainly see in her.
346

Marvin Boni A. Go
BS Physics with Computer Engineering

True, we love life, not because we are used to living, but

because we are used to loving. There is always some
madness in love, but there is also always some reason in
madness.
- Friedrich Nietzsche
 347

Edgardo P. Guevarra, Jr.

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

Unti-unting magliliwanag ang tanghalan. Sasaliw ang

nakabibighaning kundiman. Maririnig din ang pagsalpok
ng daluyong sa batuhan. Mula sa madilim na bahagi ng
entablado, lilitaw ang isang anino. Masisilayan siya ng
naglalarong pusyaw-kislap ng kahel, dilaw at pula; takipsilim
na. Ang tauhan natin ay isang mangingibig. Sa pagsinta
sa sarili, hindi lumalabis ni nagkukulang. Sa pagliyag sa
mga kaibigan, matalik man o karaniwan, nag-uumapaw
ang gatang. Irog naman ang turing niya sa karunungan, sa
“libog” para sa dulaan, at sa bawat tamis-pait na karanasan
sa dulang itong tinatawag na BUHAY. Subalit may tensiyon
ang kanyang katauhan, hindi raw niya naipararamdam ang
kanyang paghirang. Panlabas man o usapin ng kalooban
itong nasabing kasawian, mananatili ang ating tauhan, sa
kanyang espasyo sa batuhan, sa patuloy na pagharap sa
susunod na yugto ng kinabukasan, habang pinagmamasdan
ang pagtatalik ng araw at karagatan.
348

Pia Marie F. Larin

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

Pia is one of the persons admired most by her peers (yes

Pia, that includes me), and if you get the chance to know
her, you wouldn’t be surprised. A lady with dreams as
immense as her captivating eyes (hehe), she knows what
she wants in life, and she makes it a point that she gets
it no matter what. Eager to learn and experience almost
everything under the sun, you wouldn’t think that this
“gimikera/lakwatsera” is almost always on top of her class.
Aside from being a gorgeous geek, she gets along very well
with all types of people. Honestly, I never knew anyone
who did not like her as a person. Beauty mingled with a
great personality and astuteness (although oftentimes
slow with jokes, this adds to her “charm”), no wonder
hearts bled because of this lady (oh yes). A lifetime is not
enough to describe how great a person Pia is, and I am
very VERY proud and honored to be her friend. Envy me
people, envy me.
 349

John Doyle B. Llagas

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

09/18/2004, 11:36 am
Dear Doyie,
I often wonder what my life would be without a person
named “John Doyle Llagas.” Maybe we don’t get to enjoy
each other’s company everytime, or that the only thing we
share is our junior prom, my crying moments at Ateneo,
our special friendship, and a whole lot more actually... But
even so, I realized that one of my favorite persons here on
earth is HE.
Sometimes I get annoyed of his “moments”. It doesn’t
matter if he’s just genuinely concerned about me or if
there’s some factor of “friendly jealousy” in it.
Gawd.. no matter how stubborn and crazy i get, he’s just
really always there. I’m not sure if he’s still ready to catch
me in case i fall and get my heart bruised once more...
But doyie, seriously, I JUST REALLY WANNA THANK YOU
FOR BEING MY FRIEND.. And I want you to know that in
spite of all the chaotic situations that I get myself into, you
are and will always be an indispensable part of my life.
Luvualways, chingk
350

Jeric V. Macalintal
BS Physics with Computer Engineering

“Jeric” \je-rik\ n [OE, fr. Jer- + Derrick] a strong, gifted

ruler.

Known for being the founding president of the LeaPs

Organization and for having an asteroid named after him,
Jeric certainly lives by his name. He might seem like a
nerd for his ultra-thick glasses and intimidating course, but
he is the boy-next-door everybody likes. Even if he often
bums around—sleeping, or playing his guitar or computer—
whenever at home, he still manages to pass his exams.
Though he may not get a QPI qualified for the Dean’s List,
Jeric is a very gifted person excels at anything he puts
his heart into. Amidst all his blessings, Jeric remains to be
humble, cooperative, hardworking, and responsible, that’s
why people look up to him and respect him as a leader.
He is a good friend to everyone and a person of high
integrity and strong faith. It’s no surprise why he has a lot
of admirers from different year levels—Jeric has the looks,
the brains, and the character every girl looks for in a prince
charming.
 351

Fatima Aiza F. Medina

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

Nagsimula ang lahat sa isang malinis na puting papel. Di

naglao’y dumampi ang labi ng brotsa sa kanyang katawan.
Nagtalik ang mga kulay at anino. Pula. Kapusukan sa
karunungan. Kahel. Tamis ng pagkakaibigan. Dilaw. Sinag
ng kayamanan. Luntian. Buhay at kasaganaan. Asul. Dalisay
na karangalan. Indigo. Yumi at kagandahan. Lila. Kasawiang
pundasyon ng katatagan. Naglaro ang brotsa sa kabuuan
ng papel. Pinaliguan ng kahulugan ang dati’y kulay ng
kakulangan. Hanggang sa pumailanlang ang isang pigura
na singningning ng bahaghari ang taglay na katangian. At
sa paghihiwalay ng brotsang naging sagot sa lahat niyang
katanungan at ng papel ng kaniyang mga karanasan, isang
bagong imahe ang matutunghayan: malakas, marikit at
maalam.
352

Rogelio L. Naval Jr.

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

Being laid back and easy going can best describe how JR
generally lives his life. Nobody, not even his close buddies,
knows what he is really thinking most of the time. At
times he acts like he knows nothing, but at certain times
he exhibits little hints of brilliance, much to the surprise
everyone.

He usually acts carefree and relaxed but when the going

gets tough, and the going always gets tough on BS PSCE,
JR showcases one of the best characteristics in his arsenal:
his resilience. Despite countless times he was knocked
down flat on his back, he manages to find a way to spring
back better than ever. He just won’t give up no matter
how viciously harsh or ridiculously impossible the situation
is. Rather, he would find a way, no matter how risky, to
combat the present adversity and claim victory, after
which he quietly slips into how he usually spends his free
time: in front of the computer.
 353

Antonio Nicolas S. Nuñez

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

It is God who is the ultimate reason of things, and the

knowledge of God is no less the beginning of science than
his essence and will are the beginning of beings. – Gottfried
Wilhelm Leibniz
354

Eva Jei G. Orro

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

Convictions are more dangerous enemies of truth than lies.

Courageous, untroubled, mocking and violent-that is what
Wisdom wants us to be. Wisdom is a woman, and loves
only a warrior.
- Friedrich Nietzsche
 355

Naomi Kay B. Palabrica

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

“- NaoMING CUte, gorgeous at tahIMIK”, a bothering phrase

for loved ones who know better, yet an excerpt from
Naomi’s everyday jargon which is not only a signature
of a truly authentic “Nayoms” text message but also a
testament to the explosion Naomi’s “golden” voice brings
to an otherwise silent and peaceful existence.

Like the irregular capitalizations of her text, Nayoms spices

up each day with her unique expressions, such as “sapak-
balik” and “istekekek”, and loud, crazy antics which literally
rock your world.

The recent Physics department poster, which captures

Nayoms’ zeal for things she love, procrastination included,
is proof of this one-in-a-million personality who lives a well-
balanced life. Academics vs sports and parties, “me” time
vs quality time with loved ones, kicking naughty friends
vs crying over movies, carefree moments vs giving friends
deep insights. Indeed, Nayoms is a charming package,
giving her a rightful claim, “What’s the use of supermodels
if Naomi’s there.”
356

Mary Ann N. Pelecio

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

She prefers being called Marpel since the name sounded so

relevant to her nature which is loud, impulsive, and lively.
She easily balances things like her studies, social life, orgs,
and personal worries.

An avid lover of the arts, she is indeed. When it’s all about
favorite music, it would be the world of rock that she
adores. But she also has this special ability to sing the high-
pitched tunes of Mariah and Regine. Dancing is in her veins
too—modern, folk, or even interpretative ones. Last, would
be drawing. Scan her notebook and one could see her own
version of anime characters all over. She loves going out—
shopping, movies, entertainment hops, concerts, UAAP
games, “sessions”, or even pigging out on food. As a friend,
boredom would never be a word when one is with Marpel.
She’s the kind whom you could listen to, scold at, and
simply, talk with. She has a way of spicing up things in life,
thus making her lovable. Moreover, she is a cool yet true
one who wouldn’t leave you in times of need.
 357

Jose Alfonso C. Reyna

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

Mas maangas kasi kapag dalawang degree...

Pancho Reyna
BS Ps ‘05, BS CE ‘06
358

Ma. Theresa Joy G. Rocamora

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

It is no simple task to sum up my best friend of more

than a decade in fifteen short lines. A fitting start would
be to describe her as the quintessential modern-day
Renaissance woman. Her versatility is impressive, and
more amazing still is the way she pours her heart and soul
into all her activities, be it working on a project, performing
onstage, writing a poem, or giving a friend a crash course
on F1 or The Lord of the Rings. She is remarkable enough
in that respect, but what truly makes her exceptional is her
thoughtful and kind-hearted nature. Through the years,
she has proven to be a loyal confidante and a priceless
friend, and though we now live in two different continents,
she continues to be the sister I never had. Indeed, it is a rare
girl who is able to give priority to her loved ones and still
thrive on a fast-paced existence—all with natural grace and
confidence while in heels and a skirt. I look up to Joy now
as I did growing up, and I know she is destined for great
things in her professional and personal future.
 359

Jose Carlos M. Soriaga

BS Physics with Computer Engineering

JC has fancied himself as the man who already knows

everything in life and love…
… yet he hasn’t come close to being one.
His ways in dealing with life’s eccentricities maybe odd…
… yet still effective most of the time.
His sense of humor maybe excruciatingly brutal…
… yet still funny when you are not the subject under
scrutiny.
His integrity maybe hard to unearth…
… yet still shines through especially when it comes to
his family and friends.
Nonetheless, amidst all these complexities, JC is still a man
who fears nothing…
… fears nothing but God.
And in God he entrusts his growing faith…
… for only in God he can be truly GREAT.
360

Varsolo C. Sunio
BS Physics with Computer Engineering

Vars… Varsolo—a unique name for a unique Atenean…

reed-thin…fascinated by beauty (his own)… convinced
that Brad Pitt looks like him… would rather deal with
philosophies than equations (but still gets high Physics
grades)… disappointed by B+s… high standards…silent
worker… natural philosopher… surprised by Truth…
constantly amazed… wonderful sense of wonder… Pisay
Iloilo’s pride… AdMU LEAPS’ pride… AdMU Physics’ Pride…
finds time to pray and hear Mass everyday… teaches young
kids catechism… organizes the framework of his Physics
organization, and still finds time to have crushes in school
and to have dinner with his closest friends… God still makes
miracles, because He gave us Vars, who makes life here on
earth, a lot more meaningful.
 361

Jerwin Louise V. Uy
BS Physics with Computer Engineering

He is a hard working person. His laugh can drive you nuts!

He is a high achiever who has a lot of patience when it
comes to teaching. When he was young, he loved to watch
Transformers, that made him start to like science and
technology. The one thing he loves about his body are his
fingers… Why? Because he says they are “lady-like”. Jerwin
has a hard time saying the word “Trabaho”, but besides
that, he barely has a hard time in anything else.

He is a simple person who loves life more than life

itself despite its undeniably harsh predicaments and
consequences. He is open to anything, fun to be with but
usually moody at times. Flexible and adaptable when it
comes to dealing with other people, however he remains
distant to those people whom he distrusts. Stubborn,
absent-minded and sometimes even lazy, but he usually
gets the job done.