
Season’s Greetings!
The year is almost over. And as we all know, a region of our country underwent a calamity after another, leaving thousands of souls weeping for their lost loved ones. But a distinct trait of us Filipinos that leave other races in awe is our resilience to move on from any catastrophe that befell us.
While we sympathize for the victims of the tragedy, let us not forget that this season is also about thanksgiving. We are all blessed. And as Charles Dickens said, “reflect upon your blessings—one of which every man has many—not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.”
Life goes on.
One blessing I would forever be thankful for is being a part of the TomasinoWeb family. Yes, we are a family. We are not just an organization that merely fulfills its role to the Thomasian community. We are individuals with different traits and talents, bonded by the same passion—to serve.
What do we get in return? A profound sense of fulfillment in every like, repost or share of our photos, videos, articles, and graphics. Those are enough to keep the commitment of the people behind those works. Because seriously, one thing we ever really want is to be appreciated.
And we have certainly felt appreciated with our widened readership, better interaction with the Thomasian community, and stronger ties with our partner organizations.
This kind of success would only be possible with the combined efforts of the Photography Department, which photos have made its way through the different media outlets in our country; the Digital Arts Department, which witty graphics and posters continuously catch attention and spread awareness throughout the community; the Web Development Department, which the members’ programming prowess practically maintains our existence online; and the Writing Department.
This year’s Writing Department has definitely grown bigger and stronger. The previous core officers decided to add a managing editor and an assistant news editor, which was helpful to our growing family, management and production wise. Vacant positions were easily filled and the Editorial Board started the term with much focus and dedication, which in turn resulted to more writers as the year went by.
Our writers, who we dearly call “babies,” went through a training period, not just to prove their competence for the job, but also their dedication and commitment. Editors and writers work hand in hand in producing interesting and quality stories, honing each other’s talents at the same time.
I would like to thank the members of the Editorial Board who have been so hardworking and responsible in maintaining the circulation of the department despite unfortunate times and who have taught me lessons and given me memories I would keep for a lifetime: Managing Editor Josiah Darren G. Saynes, Associate Editor Charry Fatima D. Garcia, News Editor Romhelyn M. Benipayo, Assistant News Editor Mia Rosienna P. Mallari, Features Editor Gherrylle Anne R. Ombina, Blogs Editor Ma. Joan Paula D. Dino, Literary Editor Bernice Erika B. Caña, and Sports Editor Karl Cedrick G. Basco.
I would also like to thank one of my mentors, last year’s editor in chief and now organization president, Miguel Villon, for the continuous support, trust, and guidance. He is one of the people who has certainly kept me on track with my responsibilities. And I also thank my peers who continuously give genuine support in all my endeavors in life.
The past months, though it went by quickly, have been a blast for TomasinoWeb. And with the months remaining, we’ll continue strengthening our bonds and do what we do best!
Chleobel D. Birginias
Faculty of Arts and Letters
TomasinoWeb Editor in Chief, A.Y. 2013-2014