499

500

Eric C. Abenojar
BS Management of Applied Chemistry

2002

Out of almost two thousand students, one freshman

got lost on the first day of the Orientation seminar while
walking back home.

2006

Four years later, he is still trying to find his way back.

“Paint my picture truly like me, and not flatter me at all;

but remark all those roughnesses, pimples, warts, and
everything as you
see me.”
—Oliver Cromwell
 501

Sheila Marie M. Alarcon

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

Ten years from now, the name Sheila Alarcon will probably
appear in the thesaurus as a synonym for “undefined.”
Aside from it being so difficult to crack her open and see
what’s going on in her demented head, she also happens
to be the world’s greatest chameleon. She’s like Kylie and
Madonna. She keeps on reinventing herself—only better.
She used to be a supercilious horror when I first met her
three years ago but now she’s my angel. I even thought
that she was a lesbo, would you believe that? But after she
got involved with too many guys, it made me question the
validity of my assumption. But even before I labeled her as
one hot mama, rumors spread that she was hanging out
in gay bars in Malate where a gay guy told her that she
looked like a real woman. Haha! But you know what, such
is the richness of Sheiwee’s personality that no matter
what definition you try to give her—t-bird, hot chic or
babaeng bakla—she will not live by those names because
our Sheiwee is much, much more than that.
502

Anna Marie A. Arancon

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

She was our first and only baby girl. Anna was born bald,
wide-eyed, with snowy white complexion and a cute
button-like nose. As she grew up, she was like a Barbie
doll with her curly hair, which was quite blonde especially
when under the sun. She was so girly in her ways and very
“malambing.”

To date, Anna possesses such a strong and compelling

personality. Her excellent way of doing things fueled by
her fierce determination to succeed in life is always a
welcome source of inspiration. Imbued with leadership
skills, she believes that a true leader is a servant and an
inspiration to those one leads. With a radiant smile, a good
sense of humor, and a certain (almost magical) touch, Anna
is a friend to many. A God-fearing and loving person,  Anna
believes that real success is that which gives one’s heart
and mind true peace.

And even if already a young woman, Anna will always be

our Barbie.
—Dad and Mom
 503

Giahnna Tania J. Baluyot

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

A heart-warming laugh from Tania fills the room with joy.

She is a thrill seeker, unafraid to follow her heart.
Tania is a woman of few words but a woman of great
commitment.
She does what she says and does it extraordinarily.
As a friend, Tania is a brilliant listener and an excellent confidant,
always giving out very sincere and intelligent advice.
Tania has the most radiant outlook in life that lifts the spirits of
everyone around her. Her voice is consoling and enlightening.
Tania is someone who is always there when things get tough.
She knows how to cherish what is worth in life.
She is a person who offers comfort and peace to wanderers.
She shares the bounty she has with others.
She has the love and concern for humanity that money
cannot buy.
With the greatness she presents to the world, the charm that is
exuded in every encounter, Tania has left a mark in everyone’s life.
504

Jan Philippe R. Cariño

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

Jan. One look at this guy and most people would assume
that he was just another ordinary student at the Ateneo.
This, however, is far from being the truth. Jan is quite
exceptional in a lot of things, like in math and chemistry.
His competitive spirit is reflected in basketball, a sport
where he usually towers over others due to his big frame.
But don’t let this fool you. He is a gentle giant, friendly to
everyone who would take the time to know him. In fact,
most people don’t know that he is an officer of Marang
Youth Club, organizing fun and wholesome activities for the
youth in his community. Jan is a great friend, a trustworthy
individual whom you could confide secrets to. More than
that, he is a fun person to hang out with. What is surprising
though about Jan is how beneath the “well-built” exterior,
lies a gentle person with a tender heart.
 505

Colleen April D. Celis

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

I do not wish to be an inanimate object,

Devoid of logic and emotions
I do not wish to be an animal,
Driven by passion yet without reason
I wish to find my niche in the universe,
To make sense and shed light to the confusion
I wish to live out and sustain my humanity,
Imperfect, susceptible to pain and hatred
Yet ‘tis the tears that allow me to see more clearly,
Opens my heart & mind to love, loss, forgiveness—the
realities
Because I learned that Scarred People are Beautiful…
—Cadcelis
506

Vincent S. Chan
BS Management of Applied Chemistry

If there is a line that would describe Vince perfectly, it

would be “More than meets the eye.” His personality is
pretty unpredictable especially to those who don’t know
him. Being one of the “super seniors” of MAC, you would
expect him to be someone mature and experienced.
That however is far from it. On the contrary, he acts and
thinks like a younger guy. At his age, he still enjoys playing
computer games and watching anime on his trusty laptop.
When the time comes, however, you can count on him. He
would help others without even being asked. He is also
a whiz kid on computers ranging from Microsoft Office
to other computer programs and even knows a bit of
computer troubleshooting. But if there is one thing that you
should know about him, it is the fact that he really is very
sweet and sensitive to other people’s feelings. He knows
when you are feeling bad or sad and he would try his best
to make you feel better. Vince is really a good friend and a
really fun guy to be with, especially when you know him
more.
 507

Alex S. Chua Jr.

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

Alex, the name he is called.

AJR / Æx, the name the way he writes it.
Alex is a very unique individual. This guy is not like your
everyday person. Even if I were to describe him in fifteen
lines, you still wouldn’t know much about him. I could say
how nice he is and what a great friend he is, but I’m sure
he will deny that. I could say that he’s also really smart
and creative but he’s sure to deny that fact, too. Alex is
a very open-minded person as he doesn’t mind talking
about strange things or being with different people. He’s
a reserved guy but he always goes with the group when
it comes to having fun. So I’m just going to compare him
to a treasure chest. A treasure chest is difficult to find but
when you do get it, wealth and glory await. Getting to
know him might take some time but when you do, you’ll
see he’s a real great guy.
508

Aileen J. Chuacokiong
BS Management of Applied Chemistry

Aileen’s radiant beauty emanates from her graceful bearing

and refreshing genuineness. Her sweet yet mischievous
smile reflects a wacky sense of humor and quirky artistic
talent. A dreamer and a romantic, Aileen’s wistful reveries
and optimistic thoughts provide her temporary reprieve
from the tedium of daily life. Her cheery attitude however
belies an admirable resilience. Sensitive by nature, Aileen
is at times disheartened by negative criticisms. Open-
mindedness and humility have taught her how to face her
shortcomings and to see criticisms as opportunities for
growth and improvement. Responsible and conscientious,
Aileen rounds off her leadership skills with an adventurous
spirit and infectious enthusiasm. In line with her inquisitive
character, this book lover and TV drama aficionado finds
joy in discovering and experimenting. Fondly known as an
affectionate friend and thoughtful sister, Aileen possesses
a unique blend of grit and sensibility, fitting traits for a lady
of poise and determination.
 509

Christian Roger F. Cortes

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

JeeJay, that’s how most people call me. “Why?” That’s what
most people ask me. Pretty unique name though. I’ve never
seen such a name spelled that way. Anyway, I honestly have
a lot to say! So a poem would be useful, I guess. I’d like to
dedicate this to Sir Jonathan Chua (Eng Lit) and Sir Michael
Aurelio (Philo of Man). Here goes.
Who am I?
I’m a bit of a wind, shifting moods here and there.
But more of a water, ever flowing to wherever opportunities
lead me.
Sometimes calm sometimes wild sometimes shallow…
sometimes deep.
Like bamboo, firm but flexible. Like cats, silent but charming.
As down as the earth. As warm as campfire.
Sizzling like the sun, ablaze over China, Korea and Japan.
Soaring like the eagle, searching for soulful food beyond
vast horizons.
Sharing them with the young, for them to grow with strong
wings.
Wishing like a child, “Dear God, teach us all to care for others.
Amen.”
510

Maria Cecilia A. dela Cruz

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

Macyl (May-cil) definition: Tracyl, 119, A , ACLC, adorable,

aggressive, ambitious, anime, area hopper, baby, batugan,
beautiful, boss, business-minded, calculator, California
Maki, caramel, careless, caring, charismatic, cheerful,
cheesy, collector, commitment, crammer, crybaby, cute,
daddy’s girl, detective, Discovery Channel, easy to talk to,
emotional, faithful, friendly, forgetful, funny, games galore,
genius, gigilhuggerz, giving, “good luck na lang,” gorgeous,
great personality, great spy network, Harry Potter, innocent
(daw), jealous, kinikilig, L4, labo, late, leader, lola, lovable,
loves…children, junk food, eating, talking…loving, love letter,
lucky charm, MAC girl, mommy, mommy bear, movie lover,
multilingual (Tagalog, English, Bisaya, Japanese, Chinese),
nerd, OC, org freak, out-going, P&G girl, passionate, pretty,
priceless, racoon, reliable, road-tripper, sentimental, smart,
songbird, strawberry, sungit, supportive, true friend,
trustworthy, tsismosa, unforgettable, vain, Tristan’s MVP!
 511

Marian Jofel G. Evangelista

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

Tuition fees paid for Ateneo education for four years. Php
460,000
Fees for Orgs that you signed up for just to fill your resume.
Php 1000
That Honda City that allows (or doesn’t allow) you to go
anywhere, anytime: Php 540,000
Fuel cost per week of going to and coming from that house
in Fairview: Php 1,000
Cost of condominium rent because of that random number
that forced you to take those 7:30 classes: Php 3,333
Food eaten during those sleepless nights spent on studying
for Chemistry and Accounting classes: Php 20,500
That weekly commute cost of going to Area every
weekend for four years: Php 56
That Romantic Wish cologne which gives you a distinct,
pleasant smell that one can smell from afar: Php 550
Seeing Jofel’s adorable smile at the end of each day:
Priceless
512

Wilfred Gerome E. Gameng

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

Gameng plays the game of life in a completely bizarre

manner. He often opts to be the underdog. Nobody took him
seriously when he said he would audition for the glee club
yet he did show up and he got in. With his well-insulated
physique, nobody expected him to do well in his modern
jazz dance class yet he did get an “A” and he can now do a
tripod-headstand-stunt. Everyone who knows him calls him
jologs as he speaks Carabao English, highlights his hair red,
and chooses to walk around wearing hideous pink floral
short shorts; yet he has never been on probation, his family
owns a high-end beauty salon, and he thinks wearing pink
floral shorts is trendy…who are we kidding? And how many
frowns turned into smiles upon seeing Gameng in those
shorts? How many times has Gameng made us laugh once
he started speaking in “Gameng English”? That’s Gameng
for you—a person who made jologs so lovable that we
want to be jologs ourselves. Hmmm… to come to think of
it, we already are.
 513

Marianne C. Ganzon
BS Management of Applied Chemistry

Knowing Yan is rewarding—she’s the kind of person

who values sincerity and treasures genuine and lasting
friendships. She appreciates even the little ordinary things
that people do for her. Being the unpretentious and honest
person that she is, she chooses to be real to those around
her. She also likes to look at the brighter side of things.
Her whole outlook and disposition in life have made her
rise above the rest. She always stands out without even
meaning to.

Yan is strong willed and competitive but she never loses

sight of the things that are more important in life like love for
family, friendship and loyalty, and responsibility. Through
the years she has grown to become a mature, beautiful,
smart and confident woman. She has proven herself to be a
one of a kind daughter, sister, friend and student. Her values
are intact and her feet are firmly planted on the ground no
matter how fast-changing our world is, Yan will always be
the beautiful person that she is.
514

Aleli Carissa D. Gimena

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

Known as the “pink girl,” her favorite color matches

her unique and vibrant personality—charming, sweet,
romantic, and full of life. Her smile is enough to brighten up
your day and her laughter come upon you with heartfelt joy.
But her sunny, bubbly, and sociable nature hides a heart of
gold and a will of iron. She has come through many times
of troubles and still she remains optimistic and with a zest
for life. In music, she has found her passion and inspiration.
She possesses a remarkable talent in singing, dancing, and
playing various musical instruments. She loves sharing
deep connections with people, not just hi’s and hello’s. She
enjoys being with kids of all ages, and can be downright
childish and playful at times. She gives the warmest hugs
and pats on the shoulder, the kind that would make you
feel truly loved. Full of questions, sensitivity, concern, and
understanding, she’s the best person to talk to about life
and love. Always dependable, generous, and thoughtful,
she is one true friend and genuine treasure.
 515

Aldwill T. Go
BS Management of Applied Chemistry

To many, Aldwill Go, better known to his friends as Will, is a

tough nut to crack. On the surface, he is the ultimate bum,
the connoisseur couch potato. Give him a television set, a
computer with internet access or a bunch of books and he
could go on to hibernation for days without food and social
interaction—and he wouldn’t miss anybody. But like most
things, his best traits are not immediately apparent and
are even usually misinterpreted negatively by others. He’s
really smart and insightful, always challenging the status
quo. He scrutinizes details and he is always bound to
come up with his own unique opinion that is sometimes
interpreted as rebellion. He is frank and lets his mind be
heard; it’s no wonder people think he’s rude sometimes.
His passion is something to envy; when he does set his
mind on something (though that’s rare!), you bet it’s going
to get done!
516

Erika Cheska P. Go
BS Management of Applied Chemistry

“Looks can be deceiving.” This line can begin the many

descriptions about Erika. She’s one of those people who are
often misinterpreted. With her mataray air, poised beauty
and confidence, and a smile that just screams “mystery,”
she’s one of those people you fear you’ll never get along
with. But when you know her, you’d definitely discover
things that would just amaze you. A showstopper, as some
put it, Erika never fails to capture people’s attention with
her simple gestures and gorgeous persona. She stands out
among her peers because of the way she acts and dresses.
Erika can definitely carry herself in front of anyone. But
behind her amazingly chic personality is an underlying
character of intelligence and simplicity. You’d see her mind
at work in class as she shares what she has to say and
astounds you with her talents and potentials. Beauty and
brains put into one, Erika’s vibrant disposition and sweet
charisma will always make you remember her, whenever
and wherever you’ll be.
 517

Susana Beatriz S. Latay

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

Spunky. Quite. Definitely not quiet. Can and will converse

with anyone about anything under the sun or the moon, and
everything else in between (notwithstanding opinions, of
course.) Reliable—but remember that patience is a virtue
especially for text replies and morning appointments.
Car keys are almost always missing, same goes for IDs,
pens, and mobile phones (the very reason why patience
is needed when expecting text replies). That’s about
it. Otherwise, she is as wonderful a soul as you’ll ever
meet. Has passion and compassion over things trivial
and personal, or for concepts abstract and far-reaching.
Generous. Mild-mannered. A character that sticks out with
her endearing eccentricities. Presence for things lonesome
and cheery. Never a life was left unchanged—always for
the better.
518

Joshua A. Lorenzana
BS Management of Applied Chemistry

Joshua thinks the life of a person is like an essay that is

being written and revealed as long as one continues to
walk this earth. We do not merely create stories; we create
assertions. These points center on a thesis. He feels lucky
having had his thesis this early:

“Living for the sake of others opens up the doors to all

possibilities, to all potential hopes and dreams, and puts
us on the path to find peace…it becomes the direction and
course through which the elusive dream of peace can be
realized on earth.”
 519

Catherine Grace A. Peñaranda

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

“Tell me what to do I don’t know why I’m hopeless

In this show
Tell me it doesn’t hurt if I find out
That I’m alone
‘Cause I’ve been waiting for so long
Do I need to wait here or go?
Wait or go?”
—6CycleMind

Anna Banana, Eric, Joey, Cols, Joan—for reminding me

that life is not always full of concessions and that true
friendships triumph.
Brian—for the sense of nostalgia on all of my birthdays
to come.
Andrew—for the euphoria of landing among the stars.
CoolGang—my pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.
Paul—as far as the moon and back. ultimate. go.
520

Princess Ruth L. Raynera

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

I never imagined that my life at the Ateneo would be

blessed by more than what I had hoped for. I had no idea
that I would be so blessed as to have relished four year’s
worth of experiences with this wonderful young lady. A
rare mix of intellect, beauty, and character, her personality
never ceases to amaze me. She always finds new ways to
make people laugh, to show them that she cares or to just
put across the message, “Hey I’m always here for you.”

Learning has always been her first true love. An avid

collector of books, she believes that every story has its
own hidden meaning waiting to be discovered and that
every discovery is just waiting to be applied. A workaholic,
she treats time with utmost value while at the same time
exercises patience and tolerance to those around her. She
is my one true friend who, instead of giving advice on
the sidelines, prefers to stay with me in my moments of
weakness, during my most desperate hours and who stays
with me come what may.
 521

Aylene Y. Sytengco
BS Management of Applied Chemistry

She used to be my caffeine shot during those lazy

Colayco mornings; her shrieking voice never failed to
wake me up. Ays isn’t just your typical cup of coffee. She’s
actually more like hot chocolate, reserved only for special
occasions—w/ friends on a rainy day when classes are
cancelled, w/ family on holidays spent in Baguio, or on
your own while tucked in bed. The challenges of being
a MAC girl, the eldest child, and an ACLC officer would
leave her watery & bland at times. A simple girl, all she’d
need is a friend and a silent conversation with her God to
bring back that rich flavor. Being with Ays is a momentary
escape from a world replete with so much negativity.
Her radiance provides warmth and zest to her friends.
With her, everything seems so simple and laughter is the
universal language. When you’ve sipped the last drop, she
leaves an aftertaste that has you wondering how long it’s
going to be before the next cup. With her, you will never
know. Because if you did, then she wouldn’t be that special
anymore. Fortunately, she is.
522

Ann Judith I. Tapiador

BS Management of Applied Chemistry

Ann’s blockmates would describe her as tougher than most

guys yet still able to maintain her cute and girly image.
Hence, most of them would identify her as “Tigas pero
lambot-puso.” She had found her passion in life: climbing
mountains. If truth be told, she even became the ultimate
Sky Flakes consumer, which started when, once and
frequently after that, she spent all her monthly allowance
before the second week of the month would end. All that,
just to scale the peak. For her fellow mountaineers, she
illustrated a perfect epitome of a live anime character,
topped off with her robotic movements. Close friends
describe her as childlike. When she’s nervous, it shows.
Then again, she always has a cheerful disposition with
her seemingly unlimited supply of energy, adding to it
her bubbly personality. She’s always excited in relating
tales, conveying it detail by detail and enhancing it with
her corresponding animated robotic actions, be it real, or
simply one of her comical pretenses.
 523

Joan Marie T. Uy
BS Management of Applied Chemistry

“I don’t wanna be anything

Other than what I’ve been
Trying to be lately.
All I have to do is think of me,
And I have peace of mind.
I’m tired of looking around rooms
Wondering what I gotta do
Or who I am supposed to be.
I don’t wanna be anything
Other than me.”
524

Joan Marie W. Uy
BS Management of Applied Chemistry

The Exceptional Element – Nature’s Magnum Opus

Atomic #: 01191986
Name: Joan, Joey, Jo, Ma’am, Resident Claire
Symbol: Uy
Group: Noble (pure warrior—would rather lose than
surrender)
Structure: Vine-like (slowly inching towards her goals)
Characteristics: Like a star, the darker the light, the brighter
she shines. A leader who leads by example and not by
force. Similar to a rare flower which many would like to
pick and be with because of her inner and outer beauty.
Precaution: A lethal assassin armed with adamant
courage, honor, and loyalty. A romantic rebel fighting for
her beliefs.
Uses: Excellent shoulders for helping others carry their
burdens.
Words full of wisdom, comfort and care. Conductor of
knowledge, faith, and genuine friendship.