109

110

Jarius Ser L. Aragon

BS Computer Science

In your dreams, magical thoughts

all things are real, unless you dream they’re not
in your dreams, love is the plot
carried on wings of hope
Each of our souls, intertwine when we do
instantly we see it, the time to grow and be it
when everything is pinned on a hope
Let rise the dreams of your heart
that innocent youth, careless and kind
free to roam the breeze in love
only when two, brilliantly shine as one

This is the only song I can remember, for I have forgotten

all the rest save for this. It speaks of the world of dreams,
a place I one day shall help build. I always wished that I can
make dreams come true, but the best that I can do so far,
is dwell in them.
 111

Jan Benedick R. Asturias

BS Computer Science

JB is a “Blizzard Boy”, known for playing and mastering

most of the video games released by Blizzard
Entertainment. Loves watching anime and has a growing
collection of translated Manga. He is somewhat forgetful
when it comes to the little things, but quite responsible on
important things. He’s a bit of a geek (he actually enjoys
programming!) but still manages to stay unique.

JB reminds me of Flash, Photoshop, and Anime (specifically

Gundam). He knows some of the minute details in Flash
and Photoshop, and asking him about it is easier than
looking for that detail in the Internet and books. Also, he
is an avid fan of anime specially mechas. And although it
does not look like it, he can draw anime as well. JB is also a
dependable person when it comes to project requirements.
He will never let you down.
112

Antonio Maria R. Bautista

BS Computer Science

There are a lot of things people remember me by. A warm

hug during a rainy day, a hand you can hold when you just
feel like it, the huggable teddy bear of the bunch… Some
even remember me for being the young, immature son.
Others remember me as a computer programmer. And of
all of these, the one thing that I like the most… is actually
being remembered. There is nothing more I’d like than to be
remembered for the things I’ve done (ok, maybe even the
bad things, but not like I’ve done THAT many bad things).
I do my best to be friendly with everyone—even to those
people who are least likeable within a group (and yes, we
have our share in Computer Science). I guess it’s just part
of my nature to actually be helpful to everyone, no matter
how small the task or who asks for the favor. I don’t let my
size get in the way either—hey, being big has its advantages.
I’d like to leave an impact on people, so much so that when
people hear the name Arbi, they’ll say all those things like
“teddy bear”, or that helpful programmer, or that playful
big kid who always hangs out at Faura…
 113

Ramon Miguel C. Caguioa

BS Computer Science

I’ve said this before and I’ll say it again, Ramon or “Cags”,
as he’s usually known among his friends, is probably the
most complex mind that has ever been made. He was
always interested and inquisitive of things, to the point
of being fondly teased as autistic at times because of
his critical inquiry even for the most basic of things. But
clearly, he is not. And this he has proven by his impressive
academic, social and physical performance. But above all,
“Cags” is most impressive as a true and loyal comrade.
What is probably most remarkable about this guy is that
he has always stayed with his ideals and convictions.
He has shown tremendous consistency on how he deals
with people and life, and this is one of the things that
people admire about him. To top all that off, he also has a
distinct sense of humour that catches giggles and laughter
everywhere, not only of his friends, but of girls as well. It is
rare to find a person as true and as honest to himself and
to others as Ramon.
114

Randolph M. Espinosa
BS Computer Science

Ako.
Ang walang hanggang ako.
Sino nga ba?
Ako.
Mabait.
Kaibigan, anak, kapatid, tito, pinsan, kaklase, ka-org,
katsismisan.
Masama.
Kaaway, estudyante (kung minsan lang naman).
Mahilig.
Kumanta, sumayaw, maglaro ng volleyball, magforums sa
internet, manood ng TV at sine, kumain, matulog, Math,
History, Philosophy.
Ayaw.
Sa aso, sa maarte, sa papansin, sa mayabang, sa bastos,
sa matamis.
Tao. Analogum. Nagpapakatao
Ako.
 115

Joseph Troy V. Espiritu

BS Computer Science

Facets
(fas’it) n. any of the small, polished surfaces of a cut gem

“I got the better end of the deal, I’m only lending you my
body, you’re lending me your dream.”
—Jerome Morrow, Gattaca

This guy dreams big. He knows he is destined for great

things.
But he never walks alone, for he treasures friends and
loved ones.

They, he knows, made him who he is now.

He is afraid to take risks, but with the right purpose, he
does them anyway.

Formula 1 Racer, WWE Wrestler, Basketball Fanatic

Techno Junkie, Computer Nerd, Events Organizer
Manfriends_dt, Block N1, Honor Guards
Emotional, Listener, Sympathetic
The big man with an even bigger Heart
116

Jaedis Kenneth C. Flores

BS Computer Science

Ken is one of the nicest and kindest people in the block.

He’ll hear you out whenever you need someone to talk to,
even if it’s just for kicks. He’s a very joyful and excitable
person, likes to play around, and never stops laughing.
He actually has this weird chuckle that’s so uniquely Ken,
which actually reminds us of Santa Claus without the
tummy. In our group, Ken would usually be the determinant
if our jokes were funny or not, since it would really require
some effort to get a good, quality snicker from him.

Ken says that he’s not the type who takes things seriously,
and sometimes too care-free even. But you would be
surprised he would always be the one to egg the group
on to start a project when everyone seems to slack off.
That’s if he’s really inspired to work though. Well, he tends
to sleep on the job, and leaves it to the others to finish it up.
At least the initiative is there, haha!

Ken’s best trait: a great friend you can always count on!
‘nuff said.
 117

Rodolfo Jay L. Garcia Jr.

BS Computer Science

A great and magnificent obscurity, he is the dopey

computer science guy. Scary and unassuming, humble
and boisterous, this person can make you deaf from his
silence or deaf from his incessant barrage of corny jokes
and remarks. Being a health-buff with an eating problem is
no problem, as he balances a stoic and disciplined physical
training regimen with ice cream, chocolates, and sisig.

I am cute and cuddly.

118

Diana Jayne C. Gonzales

BS Computer Science

Diane has always been someone who is honest, both to

herself and to the people around her. Everyone does not
instantly notice this striking truthfulness, but when people
get to know her better, they find out that she is someone
who is trustworthy. Hers is a name that people have on their
list as someone they can really talk to. She is sympathetic
and reliable. She’s a friend’s refuge whenever the waves hit
the rocks too hard. Her company is something enjoyable
to have, since she is an adventurous person. She is often
on the go to try new things and a conversation with her is
never boring.

She always has this sincere eagerness to learn new things.

She believes that there is always something to learn new
from. She has always strived for excellence, especially for
things that matter to her most and for things that she is
passionate about.

Oh, and another thing. She never gets tired of thinking. She
can actually think the whole day in bed.
 119

Vanessa D. Gonzales
BS Computer Science

Daydreaming, laughing, eating, cramming, and relentlessly

imposing my presence all over Faura. Struggling with C,
Leithold and Socrates through countless sleepless nights.
Rushing to class, to OJT work, to CompSAt meetings, to
basketball games, and to buses bound for Lipa. See, I’m
just a typical CS student who never expected that four
years could go by so fast when all I really did was try to do
both nothing and everything at the same time.

Now I can’t help but wonder how the days that had gone
by so quickly could have given me some of the best
things in life: the enduring love and support of family and
friends who inspire me to do my best; a unique brand of
friendship that can sometimes be amusing, infuriating,
and comforting, but is always strong; the chance to serve
an organization for two great years; the priceless gift of
education; and the unfailing grace of God.

For these and much more, I will always be thankful. Sou

desu!
120

Kei Wai C. Hung

BS Computer Science

“Oh no! I didn’t do well in the test!” But when the results
come out, she gets the highest score! This is just one of
Cecilia’s extreme remarks, but don’t let yourself be fooled.
She is one of the prettiest, nicest and smartest people
you’ll ever meet.

Cecilia is perseverance personified. She didn’t become

one of the prettiest, nicest and smartest overnight. (Well,
maybe the pretty part.) She usually gets her high grades
the hard way through plain, old-fashioned studying. And
what is most inspiring about Cecilia is how she willingly
puts aside what she wants to do to help a friend in need.

It’s so easy to talk to her because of her sensibility.

It’s refreshing to be able to talk to someone without
pretensions and get upfront answers. With her logical and
calm way of thinking, she would be able to give sense to
any problematic situation.

Yes, even with all these Cecilia manages to still stay humble,
even too humble at times. But then again, nobody’s perfect
right?
 121

John Percival Allan D. Ko

BS Computer Science

Ironically, a man of few words such as Mr. Ko can be

described with many words: 1) Deceiving. At once he
looks unapproachable, too serious, and most terrible of all,
suplado. But when you do get to know him, you’ll find out
that he’s quite the opposite. He’s the friendliest, wackiest
guy you’ll meet. You can converse with him about anything
(from the mundane to the corny to the profound). He’ll drink
with you to the wee hours of the morning, sometimes with
raucous laughter, sometimes with comfortable silence you
can only share with a genuine friend. 2) Gifted. Perci is a
genius in many ways! He’s a well-read person and a deep-
thinker who’ll engage you in a philosophical symposium
(inuman). As a CS major, he’ll astound you with superb
logic and code-writing, but as a foolish romantic, he’ll spout
prose, and perhaps, with a little help from pale St. Michael,
even with verses. I gave two words, but the list goes on.
The truth is, no one, least of all Percival, can be captured
completely into words.
122

Elijah John U. Lao

BS Computer Science

“Birds of the same feather flock together.” As far-fetched

as it may seem, Elijah is able to defy that cliche... A very
simple, approachable, humble, and giving friend, Elijah
seems to fit in any crowd he may be in. This well-rounded
guy is true to the people around him—what you see is what
you get, nothing hidden beneath his Chinese looks.

Careful but spontaneous. Naughty but nice. Playful yet

serious—he will share with you a great friendship, something
money can’t buy. He gives 100% support to his friends by
listening and giving an honest opinion all the time. It is
this crazy guy who will lend you a shoulder to cry on and
give you advice even if he’s carrying a huge burden on his
shoulders. He will share with you a great friendship. He’s a
dreamer who dreams big, and his optimism is contagious
that one can’t help but feel the same way and think
positive. As an exemplar of a true Christian, a well-rounded,
responsible person, and a true friend; Elijah surely has left
a lasting impact on lives of the people he’d met.
 123

Marc Adrian C. Lihan

BS Computer Science

Everyday we cross paths with different people, but those

you simply cannot help but remember after time has
passed you by are the ones that make you smile without
trying. Those are the best kind of people to be around
and Lihan is a perfect example of someone who makes
you instantly grin knowing that a mere 5 minutes in his
company will have you laughing along with that cutely
infectious, silent, open-mouthed laugh that is so undeniably
Lihan. Sometimes you might wind up even laughing at him,
but that’s a rare, special quality of his. How often can you
meet someone you constantly like to tease but who takes
it all in stride and understands that some jokes really aren’t
half-meant at all. Yet beneath that relaxed and innocently
optimistic face lays an intellect fueled by Lihan’s remarkable
talent for information technology, one backed by an Inter-C
programming champion title, CompSAt presidency and a
self-generated English language so complex that only he
can decipher it. So whichever angle you choose to look at
and no matter how long it’s been, trust me. You will never
forget Marc Lihan.
124

John Hardey S. Loang

BS Computer Science

John on the outside is a very mysterious person. But once

you get to know him, you would then realize just what a
good friend he is. John would have to be the most loyal
friend anyone could ever hope for. He would do anything
to help a friend in need and he will stick to you through
thick and thin. He can be the wackiest person in the group
and he can be the most serious one as well. John is without
a doubt a true achiever as he puts his heart to everything
he does, and he strives to excel in all his endeavors.

Also, Hardey is a blunt guy. If he’s got something to say, he’s

not afraid to speak his mind. He can stay calm and collected
even though the deadline for the programming project is
slowly getting closer and closer. No matter the situation, he
can stay cool and calm, making his decisions usually well
thought out and correct. A great driver and an even greater
friend, I’ll always treasure our friendship. Underneath this
guy’s seemingly timid image is a hardworking individual, a
leader in heart who strives to perfection.
 125

Lorlynn Marie B. Logro

BS Computer Science

The Lynn you know right now isn’t the Lynn she always
was. Back in high school, she was the girl with the sharpest
tongue and with the best comebacks. It was always
thought that college would harden her up some more as
she gears up to face the real world. Luckily, she didn’t
turn out as expected. Of course, she still has the wit that
could spar anyone else’s but she only resorts to it in self-
defense. Now, she has a smile ready for everyone and a
countenance that could brighten up anyone’s day. College
has made her into the ultimate “Ate,” as she is called in
YFC, someone to be trusted, to give comfort and to be a
good friend. Lynn has blossomed and may she share her
brightness to bring light to the reality that is beyond the
Ateneo walls. The journey to the top of the Hill has been
a long one for Lynn, with detours and layovers along the
way. Now that she stands upon the crest and looks to her
future, she knows in her heart that the climb up was truly
worth all that lay before her.
126

Jarell P. Malari
BS Computer Science

The Late Jarell Mallari... no, it’s not what you’re thinking.
He’s not dead. He’s just... usually late. Despite this, his
reliability does not falter. You can count on him to be by
your side in a wink, at the bat of an eyelash and whatever
idiom you can think of that signifies neck-breaking speed
anytime you need him. Even though he’s been through
a lot, he still knows how to stand tall and face all of the
challenges that come his way.

It’s not hard getting to know the real Jarell because

what you see is simply what you get. He gets along with
everyone, he listens when you talk, he’ll make you laugh
anytime any day, and make you smile when you’re sad.
He tries to know your dilemma so he could help you out
and finds a way to make you feel comfortable. His concern
goes straight to the heart. He loves and cares constantly.

Jarell will always be himself no matter what: a music-

lover, a hard worker, a real friend, a clown, and, still, a
latecomer.
 127

Ramon Francisco Benigno P. Mejia

BS Computer Science

At first glance, he could intimidate you with his “dark look”,

which is both literal and figurative. I’ll let the literal speak
for itself, but figuratively it could mean the angry, brooding
look he has about him. But really, most of the time Akie
isn’t really angry, he just looks that way.

Beneath his unapproachable appearance, Akie is the

epitome of the man for others. Seriously, he is one of the
kindest, most selfless people you’ll ever get a chance to
meet. Whenever a friend is in need of help, Akie will do all
he can to help.

Akie also utilizes his power of intimidation by turning it into

the power of leadership. He can lead and organize people
into becoming an efficient and productive team. Despite
having the tendency of falling asleep in class, he still
manages to get good grades.

With his leadership skills and quick intelligence, Akie is

destined to go places.
128

Kimberly L. Ong
BS Computer Science

Blockmates first dubbed her as “the successful career

woman” for wearing formal clothes on regular schooldays.
Four years later, Kim proved her friends right. Indeed, she
possesses a combination of diverse qualities one rarely
finds in a person—that which is sure to promise her success
in any career.

A language aficionado, she enjoys and has a knack for

learning languages. Aside from Filipino and English, she
speaks Chinese, Japanese, French, Fookien and list still
keeps growing. She is also a sports enthusiast and became
a member of the Ateneo Table Tennis team during her
freshman year. She also skis, knows kendo, practices judo
and plays softball, to name a few. If that’s not enough,
she also has a passion for music and playing musical
instruments.

Without a doubt, Kim truly is an adventurous, fun-loving,

and above all, a God-fearing lady who never fails to share
her smiles as well as her precious time to anyone who
needs them.
 129

Andreé Rose Christian M. Pavo

BS Computer Science

Ask anyone who knows her what one word would best
describe Andreé. Nine out of 10 repondents would most
likely say she’s OC! True enough, Andreé likes to have
everything planned and organized. You can see that in how
she handles her things, how she writes down notes and
even how she deals with friends. Preparing for a birthday
surprise weeks or even months from the date itself is just
so like her.

Andreé also has a knack for cheering people up. It’s

probably because she’s seen worst that’s why she could
easily find something good out of difficult situations. This
girl, believe it or not, has had her share of disappointments.
Still, she sees what’s good in each experience and even in
the people she gets to interact with.

Lastly, Andreé seems to live up to her name’s anagram –

“Endeavor Pa” (from Andree Pavo.) She’s one who never
seems content with how things already are. For her, the
only way to live the life of Christ is to continue striving for
growth and excellence.
130

Enrique Luis D. Perez

BS Computer Science

Kit is the UAAP volleyball player of the “Basement”, his

high school barkada. He is also a superb billiard player.
And if that’s not enough, he’s also garnered medals in
swimming.

So why does he have the nickname “Shiki”? It’s his “s”

that he unconsciously makes “sh” in some of his wordsh
(words) and shentenshesh (sentences) but the mistake
happens rarely though. Some college friends think of him in
some other ways too. To block mates, he is the guy who’s
perennially late. Some of his lines would be, “Uh pwede
na…. kayo bahala.” Or “Pwede ikaw nalang.” Being true to
others, he rarely left a friend alone. One would be surprised
to find he really dresses up. He even modeled clothes for
Levi’s in August 2004 in Centro, Libis.

Furthermore, being studious when it comes to academics is

an understatement. In fact, he even passes the opportunity
to go out with friends to study in the library. That’s Kit, a
great friend, a dedicated student, and an incomparably
unique individual.
 131

Joseph Alfred L. Pineda

BS Computer Science

Tracing the etymology of the name Joboy…

“job” n 1. work 2. vocation, ex. To have Jobs as a friend is
not just hard work—it is a vocation.
“Job” n Like the chief character in the Biblical Book of
Job, a person, who, despite great suffering and adversity,
remained faithful to God.
“boy” n 1. kid 2. full grown adult spotted lurking in Timezone,
Cool Shots or Katipunan on school nights
“boyoyong” (Filipino, infml.) see clown
“Jobless” ant 1. Life without Joboy is a bore 2. inactive 3.
losing the drive to work.
“Joboy” n 1. An inspiring and popular mythical character
known for its Tapir-like nose or snout. Taming this creature
is a difficult and painstaking task as it is known that Joboy
is obnoxious, fierce, and oftentimes resilient to people it
is not familiar with. But once a person has gotten Joboy’s
trust, he becomes the best friend any human person could
ever have.
132

John Philip B. Posadas

BS Computer Science

Not every person gets to make an impact on your life… not

unless that person’s name is Philip.

Philip, at first glance seems like the shy, quiet type. In

reality, though, he’s the exact opposite; he’s talkative,
smart, thoughtful, sensible, outgoing and fun. He too
exhibits maturity beyond his age. But he is not too showy
of his feelings and would rather take things at his own
pace. One really needs to look closer to see what is inside
of him.

Once you meet Philip, you’re exposed to a real person.

When you get to know him better, you gain a real friend—
guaranteed! He’s really good at cheering up his friends.
He has this uncanny power to make people smile. If that
doesn’t work, he’ll make you laugh instead—guaranteed! If
you’re his friend, you don’t have to look too far to find him
for he’ll always be by your side.

All the time—guaranteed!

 133

Ryan C. Prachayasatierkul
BS Computer Science

Thanks. To God; my family, especially Lola who has been

both father and mother to me; [O]2002, it is an honor to be
part of our family, I’ll see you guys at our island; Tanny, Jed,
and all the friends of [O]2002, glad you could join us on our
ride; BS CS 2006, I wish you all success in your careers,
“kaya natin ‘to!”; my block N2 and the super 6—Akie, Abie,
Kit, Bj, Yari—all the laughter and drama still resonates
within me; Eileen, Carmina, Berna, Jacky, Chin—one of, if
not the most special thing that I got from joining Regcom
was getting to know you guys; my other Regcom friends,
the Bubble people, let the rumors roll; our juniors, I had so
much fun with you guys, goodluck on your senior year;
Audrey, Mary, Kris—you guys taught me what true love is,
and what it is not; Steph, you still are the “bestbud”; Vi and
the rest of the Gang, I truly miss you all, it’s been a while;
all my teachers/professors, the knowledge you gave me is
priceless; all the other friends I encountered along the way
but shamefully forgot. All of you guys will eternally be a
part of my being and I am grateful you somehow made me
a part of yours too.
134

Mark C. Punzalan
BS Computer Science

Who is Mark Punzalan? There are two aspects to his

personality; therefore, it should come as no surprise that
he goes by two names.
“Punzki” is the alias he goes by as the Ateneo computer
science prodigy. His resumé is filled with awards from
local and international competitions and talks conducted
at professional conferences. He is also known as “Mr.
ACM” and “Microsoft MVP.” But more importantly, he is the
source for all things computer science: ask him a question,
and you will get an answer. Punzki is a person you can
count on.
“Mark” is the name he answers to among his circle of
friends. He is an avid NBA and F1 fan, and a converted
animé and manga junkie. He is the Kasparov of the Rubik’s
cube and Faura’s guitar freak. Armed with a weird sense of
humor, he always seems to have a witty/nerdy/corny retort
for every occasion. But more importantly, he is always out
there to help his friends in need. Mark is a person you can
count on.
Now then, the question is: who is Mark Punzalan to you?
 135

April C. Rey
BS Computer Science

Words will never be enough. I can write tens of thousands

of words describing April, yet that won’t capture even a
quarter of what this woman is all about. April is someone
you have to get to know in order to fully understand what
she is all about. She is a person who will never cease to
amaze, for everyday that God gives, you always find
something new about her. But there are a few words that
capture her true essence. Words like responsible, loving,
and understanding. Unique. Kind. Hard working. Gentle.
Amazing. Beautiful. No one can ever replace that warm
aura of comfort she possesses that can make anyone feel
welcome the moment they feel it. Neither can they imitate
that warm smile she gives every morning, no matter how
stressful the previous days have been. Nor can they give
heart-felt hugs that cheer you up like she can. She is truly
one exceptional woman, one that comes unexpected, one
that opens your eyes and makes you believe that miracles
do, indeed, happen. She is April Rey.
136

Adrian C. Rodriguez
BS Computer Science

Top 10 on what makes Adrian, Adrian:

10. He likes singing, as long as there’s a guitar playing.
9. He has a fascination for weapons.
8. He wakes up early just to find himself sleeping in class.
7. He’s interested in… computer hardware!
6. He’d go out of his way to finish other’s projects before
his own.
5. He’s interested in… Gundam! (a rabid fan)
4. He’s a take-charge kind of guy, a regular leader.
3. He’s interested in… video games!
2. He’s jack-of-all trades, yet a master of none.
1. He’s your all around nice guy!
 137

Paolo Martin D. Rodriguez

BS Computer Science

Over the years of staying at the Ateneo, I have learned and

achieved many things that I have never thought I could ever
learn nor achieve in my lifetime, and for that, thank you, to
all who were and still are around me, guiding and helping
me become the person that I am now, and the person that I
am endeavouring to be. Thank you. No amount of readings,
or units, or grades, or tuition fees can be substituted for the
wisdom, the spirit, and the love that I have received during
my short stay at this glorious institution. It is doubtful that I
would survive without the friendship and support countless
people have given me, and the small thing that I can do is
return that kindness to everyone by never forgetting the
great significance of all those who are around me, even
when I have attained my most magnificent ambitions, with
my head up high in the clouds, I will never forget that my
feet are to be firmly planted on the ground. I will hold my
head up high, towards the blue sky and the yellow sun, but
never ever forgetting the people who held me up before,
and are holding me up right now. My victories are for you.
138

Edgar Ryan V. Samson

BS Computer Science

This guy can definitely make anybody’s day better. The

worst of moods and the stress creeping up anyone’s veins
can be washed away with his disarming smile. But he isn’t
just all smiles, this guy knows the latest in computers, from
the specifications, where to buy them and how much they
should cost.

He’s not all about computers though, this guy goes beyond
what is superficial, he believes that money and material
wants can never make anyone happy. He firmly believes
that it is through the intangibles that one can be truly
be happy and satisfied. A clear conscience, strong faith,
integrity, generosity, hard work, a positive outlook in life
and humility, are values that this young man believes in
and lives by. Qualities possessed not only of a well bred
young man, but of a true blue Atenean.
 139

Gil Russell O. San Pedro

BS Computer Science

Gil, a name used to refer to someone who is:

-small but smart (Size is not everything as I show you how
much is packed in this little giant)
-silent but sensible (Rarely do I talk but most of the time
I’d make sure I come with sense and convey thoughts of
value)
-farsighted but simple (Though I have big dreams, it does
not take me much to be content)
-logical but carefree (I am all brains in most that I do but
this doesn’t necessarily mean I don’t have fun)
-and a thousand other things you’d only know once you
know me
140

Lloyd Vincent D. Santos

BS Computer Science

Lloyd, the early bird, typically comes to school even before

the workers in school arrive and goes home after the sun
has already set. This person exudes an amazing vigor and
an incredible zest for life. He always seems to radiate
happiness wherever he goes. His friendly demeanor allows
him to make plenty of friends everywhere, and he can talk
to anyone and can make jokes about anything under the
sun. You would probably think that this man is all play
and no work, but you’d be wrong. Lloyd excels in all his
classes and still manages to commit himself to different
organizations. This person embraces responsibilities unlike
most people who run away from such things. He also has
a very big heart; he would never leave anyone’s side and
would go to great lengths just to help a friend in need,
without expecting anything in return. Indeed, Lloyd is
the very best friend anyone can ever have. He is one of
those people whom you will always remember and will be
deeply embedded in your heart forever.
 141

John Paul N. Simpao

BS Computer Science

Although, at first glance, he may seem to fit the description

of the “strong, silent type”, there is more to John than
meets the eye. Beneath his solemn and calm exterior
lies a fun-loving, intelligent person with a unique sense
of humor. Under the guise of an active observer, he tries
to view reality from different angles, and then quietly
contemplates about the things he has recently discovered.
One important lesson he has learned throughout the years
is to break free from the rigidity of traditional ideas and to
maintain a mind that is readily open to new ideas. When
he is not wandering in his thoughts, he proceeds to occupy
his time by developing computer programs, losing himself
in books and novels, experimenting with different musical
styles on his acoustic guitar, engaging himself in the illusory
world of movies, and spending quality time with his friends
and family.
142

Pamela Esmee L. Siy

BS Computer Science

Within the four years of my stay at the Ateneo, I’ve learned

that the stars above Bellarmine field have their own
special kind of magic, that the steps of Faura will always
hold fond memories of CS batch mates, that to take risks
is to know how far one can go and how much one can
achieve (Lundagin mo, beybeh!), that prayer can make
any bad situation less awful and any daunting task more
achievable, that laughter really is the best medicine and
that to appreciate and make art (photograph, sketch, write,
direct, dance, sing) is to discover beauty and to love.

To all my professors, org mates, block mates, class mates,

batch mates—friends, thank you for being a part of my
life.

And thank You, for everything.

 143

John Eric Y. Sy
BS Computer Science

D: John is a person who will never let you down. He is a

friend who is never afraid to give you a helping hand and
always there whenever you need him. At first, he may look
quiet and shy but once you get to know him, you will find
out that you can talk to him about anything.
G: A guy who though appears shy at first towards new
people is a hell of a friend afterwards, always willing to
help and extend his vast computer expertise - someone
who learns more outside the classroom in pursuit of his
interests and knowledge of better relevance.
F: Someone who constantly seeks to change, improve and
grow. A good friend and a trustworthy confidant who gives
more than he gets.
O: John is a very approachable person and he wouldn’t
hold out a smile on you.
J: A relaxed character yet he’s a guy you can depend on.
He can make the impossible possible, finishing papers and
programs a few hours before the deadline. A friend I’ll
always remember.
144

Boswell Sebio S. Tan

BS Computer Science

At first, meeting Boswell would leave you the impression

that he is a quiet and reserved kind of person. He doesn’t
usually start conversations and keeps things to himself.
However, befriending him would tell you otherwise. He’s
the type of person who could take any kind of topic and
turn it to an interesting conversation. A natural entertainer,
he can elude you with his persuasive tongue and witty
character. He’s also a fun loving person who loves to take on
the mountain pass and he sees humor in almost anything.
And finally, he’s a true friend that is always available to
confide with and to cheer you up in the gloomiest days of
your life.
 145

Kendrick Charles S. Tan

BS Computer Science

Kendrick is one of the nicest persons you’ll ever meet. He is

a kind and thoughtful friend that you can always count on.
He goes out of his way to help his friends without expecting
anything in return. This guy may seem quiet and reserved
at first, but don’t let this fool you because once you get
to know him, he is a lot of fun to be with. This person is a
happy-go-lucky guy that goes with the flow and you might
think that he’s all fun and no work; but when it comes to
serious matters, you’ll be surprised to see how determined
and hardworking he can be. You can be sure he’ll do his
best all the time. He is a goal-oriented person and has a
strong drive to succeed.

What I think of Kendrick hmm... he’s neither good nor bad.

He’s never too happy yet, I’ve never seen him sad. He’s
never intrusive, not too aloof has a good sense of humor
but he’s not the type to goof. He wouldn’t bother memorize
what all books claim or say but then, he knows--he’s certain
of the kind of life he’d want to live someday.
146

Theodore G. Tan
BS Computer Science

If you were to construct a mathematical equation

describing Teddy Tan, what would it be? A lot of people
committed the common error that Theodore Gotamco Tan
is equal to merely the shy-slash-quiet guy. If you likewise
think this is so, better think again. In the primary stages
of knowing him, one would encounter the occurrence of
an unexplainable phenomenon. Try staring at you’ll see his
face gradually experience change from the neutral-normal
complexion to that comparable to a ripe tomato. Beneath
the simple smile is a known billiards hustler to his friends.
Apart from this “billiards-philia” is his love for wrestling.
Besides all the little surprises that people see in him, one
can surely capture his sweet side that come in different
packages. Indeed, he is one of those rare people whose
sincerity exudes from within. He has the heart of a loving
friend, the unique humor, the compassionate soul, the
deeds of a gentleman; no words could ever describe him
enough. He is, simply, God’s perfect masterpiece.
 147

Vincent Gerard J. Tan

BS Computer Science

To friends, Borgy is as good as Borgies get. He is a barrel

of laughs who can entertain you with his mind-numbing
quotable quotes and corny jokes. Despite the craziness,
he can charm you with his witty humor. Each second of a
conversation with him will most likely be punctuated with
tons of guffaws. Computer suddenly crashes? No problem,
Borgy has the skills to fix it. But, there are certain hues of
his personality that takes time to discover. A friend to the
end, he will stick by you through thick and thin! He will
be there when you need him--late night chats at no extra
cost, and even when you don’t need him. He has a caring
personality that most people don’t see... then again, maybe
he just shows it to a chosen few. Also, he always tries out
new things given that these things would interest him.
Right now, this interest is Dance Maniax. This guy certainly
loves to joke around, but expect him to be a good listener
and adviser when you need someone to confide in. Final
verdict: Borgy = Pogi Istayl.
148

Ma. Denise T. Verastigue

BS Computer Science

Denise is a walking paradox.

Friendly and sweet, but watch it, she can sometimes be
terribly mean.
Laughing one moment, next thing she’s moody.
Very reserved and shy, but mention her anime obsession
and she’ll talk non-stop.
Calm and collected, a word on L’arc-en-Ciel and she goes
ballistic.
Diligent and meticulous, but a lazy procrastinator queen.
Observant to her surroundings though can be oblivious at
times.
An independent person yet can be reliant on her friends.
Smart and talented, yet often makes the most basic
foibles.
Multilingual yet a woman of few words.
In the end, you’d realize that this walking talking paradox
is one that’s infinitely full of surprises.