It was scorching hot outside when I left the house. And it wasn't an exaggeration to say that the sun's rays could fry an egg when left out in the open. With that condition, I started sweating a lot while I was in the jeep, but thankfully, there weren't many people with me, so the jeep didn't smell bad from everyone's sweat.
Upon reaching my destination, I quickly exited the jeep before it could fill up with more people. I then entered the place I had arrived at.
As I opened the door and stepped inside, a rush of cool air greeted me, providing a welcome relief from the earlier heat.
"Aahh… aircon is the best."
The place I arrived at had a range of essentials, from instant and cup noodles to various personal care products. Furthermore, a plentiful selection of refreshments was available, featuring a variety of drinks, chips, hotdogs, and even donuts. It was unmistakably a convenience store, offering everything one might need on the go.
It was named 7-Eleven, pronounced as seven-eleven. People say the name originated from the store's operating hours, which ran from 7 am to 11 pm seven days a week. While not surprising, it was a clever way to name the store. The simplicity made it easy to understand the meaning behind it.
Now, as for me, the reason why I am here is the purpose of waiting for someone.
While I waited at the convenience store, I thought, "Why not grab some coffee?" So, I headed to the counter, got myself a cup, and casually walked to the dispenser to fill it up.
The store operates on a self-service model, meaning you do everything yourself—grab your coffee, pick out your drink, pour hot water on cup noodles, and even assemble your hot dog on the bun. The only exception is microwaving frozen food, which they handle for you.
After grabbing my coffee and securing the lid, I found a seat. As I waited for the person I had in mind, I enjoyed my time by gazing outside, watching each jeep pass by while sipping my drink. Observing the number of jeeps that had come and stopped at the front of the convenience store, it dawned on me just how conveniently located this place was.
Since the front of the convenience store served as a drop-off area for jeepney passengers. Moreover, there was a school near the convenience store.
After passing the time lost in my thoughts, the person I had been waiting for finally arrived.
"Sorry for taking so long, Jose."
The person I had been waiting for was a good friend of mine named Adrian Cabanas.
"It's fine. I didn't wait long," I replied.
I'd be lying if I said I didn't wait long, considering the designated time we were supposed to meet had already passed. Plus, the coffee I bought was long gone, consumed back when my thoughts began on the jeepney.
"Let's go?"
"Wait, before we dive in. How about grabbing something? Coffee, maybe?"
"Nah, already had my fill at home for breakfast."
"Don't want to chill for a moment here? You just got here, and look at you, sweating."
"I'm good, man. Being fashionably late already chewed up a bunch of time. Wouldn't want to add more, right?"
"Fair enough... Well then, let's hit the road."
Without saying a word, I disposed of the cup of coffee in the trash can nearby. Technically, the staff could have taken care of it if I had just left it on the table, but I opted to do it myself. It's a small gesture to ease the staff workload. Why bother? Sometimes, it's just about one human helping out another.
After doing the deed, I left the convenience store along with Adrian.
What's the wait for earlier? Where are we going next?
Waiting for him was indeed the purpose of going somewhere. And that would be the school nearby. Here, meeting up served the purpose of heading to the school.
It's not because we're students there, well not yet, but soon. But the reason we are going there is to attend the orientation.
We were heading to a school called Bonifacio High. As the name implies, it could honor Andres Bonifacio, one of the Philippines' national heroes.
After completing the enrollment process and selecting our strands, we proceeded to the orientation. That's the reason for our visit.
The orientation is for new students like us attending school this academic year. The orientation would talk about the rules and regulations of the school to inform us.
Upon reaching our destination, we were welcomed by what seemed to be a Bonifacio High student. They guided us to the orientation venue alongside others who shared the same purpose.
"Please come in," said the guide.
They led us into a sports facility with two key features: a basketball and a volleyball court.
"Please, sit right here," The guide further us to sit on the chair that occupied both courts.
Anticipating a wave of new students, they've arranged sufficient chairs for everyone. It's difficult to estimate the number of new students, akin to the challenge of counting a strand of hair. That's the scale of the student body.
"Good morning, everyone!" a young woman greeted us, standing at the front with a microphone, seemingly not far from our age.
Ahead of us was a giant stage, impressively adorned. Yet, upon closer observation, the stage appeared to be pre-made and simply set up, with decorations added later.
"You all still seem like you haven't fully embraced the morning, huh?" the young woman remarked, her eyes scanning the crowd with a playful grin.
"Oh my, not enough sleep, or just too excited to be here at the orientation?" she continued, her gaze sweeping over the crowd. Suddenly, her eyes fixated on a particular individual; playfully, she pointed directly at someone in the crowd.
"Take a look at that guy. Looks like he hasn't gotten enough sleep," she called out, directing her attention towards him. "You, the guy with the black circles under your eyes. Too excited, huh? Eager to be here, hmm? Can't wait to attend this school, don't you?" She teased with a playful smile.
After singling out that guy, everyone around him turned their attention toward him. While not everyone could see, the guy did have dark circles under his eyes. From a distance, it wasn't apparent to some, except for those nearby. Fortunately, our seats were nearby, giving us a clear view of the person. Upon closer inspection, his dark circles were noticeable even from afar. If you didn't look carefully, you might assume it's just makeup.
After confirming it, the guy beside him glanced ahead and shouted, "Oh, he didn't get that from being overly excited about attending. He got those from playing games the whole night."
Caught off guard by the unexpected remark, laughter erupted from the crowd, including the young woman on the stage, Adrian, and me.
But why would one small, simple comment be found so funny? What made everyone burst into laughter at this seemingly ordinary statement?
Well, it's easy to understand why. It depends on personal experience. Anyone can relate if that person has been through it before or something similar. Whether it's reading a captivating novel, binge-watching a favorite K-drama, and more—these are the simple pleasures people indulge in during their free time, mere hobbies, to be exact. And those hobbies can be surprisingly addictive. Imagine it's past your bedtime, and you can't resist saying, "Just one more chapter or episode." It becomes a dilemma, a somewhat comical and relatable struggle.
Adrian and I shared a similar experience, finding that simple joke funny. We've both had our fair share of nights spent playing games, although not to the extent of the guy over there. A guy with that dark circle visible and darkened would make you want to ask if he even sleeps.
Despite the joke directed at him, he doesn't seem bothered and laughs tool. That only confirms that the reason behind his dark circles is indeed staying up late playing games.
It didn't take long for the laughter to settle down. When silence developed, an individual walked to the front. The person appeared to be a teacher at the school, and she approached the guy with dark circles under his eyes. The teacher seemed to be talking to the guy, and soon, he stood up from his seat.
"Ms. Tuazon, please already start with the orientation." The teacher said to the young woman on the stage.
"Ah, okay, ma'am."
After the exchange, the teacher left the facility along with the guy.
The young woman turned around and adjusted her appearance a bit. Afterward, she faced the crowd and began speaking again.
"Joke aside, let's start the orientation, shall we? My name is Monica Tuazon, and I'll be your host today. Welcome to Bonifacio High!!!"
After uttering her last sentence, the music suddenly played in the background. With cheerful enthusiasm, she started dancing a bit and swiftly moved to the side of the stage. Shortly after, some people wearing unusual clothes appeared out of nowhere, making their way up to the stage.
Everyone was surprised, even us.
What happened a few seconds ago wasn't particularly impressive. The trick lies in guessing those people probably emerged either in the two scenarios: behind the stage or beneath it. These two assumptions may be close to the truth, considering there's a wall blocking the view behind the stage, and the bottom part is covered–with cloth. Either of these two scenarios could be accurate.
However, their appearance out of nowhere wasn't the reason that surprised me; it was the next thing that happened after that.
Observing the individuals adorned in unconventional attire, it appears they have completed their preparations and are already in formation. Without wasting a moment, they commence dancing. Synchronized with the music, they exhibit seamless coordination, gliding swiftly from one spot to another. Their movements are fluid, resulting in a smoothly executed performance. Moreover, their attire complements their dance, making it all the more appealing.
All in all, they perform amazingly.
Taking my eyes off the stage, I look at Adrian.
"Hey, how come our–"
"Huh? Did you say something?"
The music emanating from the stage drowned out my voice, making it impossible for Adrian to hear me. Nevertheless, I persisted and tried again.
Looking at Adrian again, I speak loudly, "How come our school doesn't have this one?"
"Oh? True! Our school doesn't have this one. Unfair, isn't it? But given how renowned this school is, I wouldn't be surprised if they go the extra mile just for their reputation."
Adrian's response was unclear to me, but I grasped it somehow. So I nodded in acknowledgment.
"And in the next week or so, we'll be attending this school, won't we? Exciting, isn't it?" Adrian continued.
"Yeah, it's exciting."
The dance on the stage finally ceased as the music settled down. However, the excitement didn't end there; another tune began playing in the background shortly after the first one. Soon, the dancers vacated the stage, making way for two new performers. One, a male, sported a vest over a sleeve polo shirt, while the other, a female, was elegantly clad in a red sheath dress.
Equipped with their respective microphones, they commenced singing along to the music. Their voices intertwined in a captivating duet; initially, they took turns. But as they continue singing, their lines and voices seamlessly synchronize, creating a harmonious blend.
At first glance, one might assume they were in a relationship, but then again, I could be mistaken.
There's a familiar vibe between them, indicating a certain closeness. Yet, that kind of connection is also typical in close friendships.
They might be in a romantic relationship, or it could develop into one—it only depends on their feelings. Nevertheless, it's premature to conclude their relationship; they could already be a couple–and I simply haven't discovered it yet, given that the school term hasn't commenced.
Interrupting my thoughts was a lingering echo emanating from the stage. It appeared that they were reaching the final part of the song as their voices slowly faded away, eventually coming to a halt when the music concluded.
Silence enveloped the entire area, but it didn't take long before the sounds of cheers erupted from the crowd. The echoes of clapping and words of praise filled the air among the spectators.
Their performance is well done, I'll say.
Both bowed in appreciation. And the host appeared on the stage afterward.
"Alright, that was a fantastic performance from those two groups. Let's give them a round of applause!" the host exclaimed.
Despite being done with the cheers from just a while ago, they still applaud.
"Right, for those who don't know, the first group that performed was a dance club from this school. Some of you probably have heard or perhaps seen them in the news. They are pretty well-known."
After she said that, one of the girls from the crowd shouted, "One P."
"Right, this club was part of the infamous dance group named 'One P.'"
'One P'
I had heard about them. At first, I didn't think they were that famous—until I saw them on the news.
I became interested, hence I watched one of their dance videos. And I must admit, they are good.
I'm not a dancer, so I am not well-known for the criteria for a good dance, but their performance left a strong impression.
Heck, I might already be a fan of theirs.
"And on the other hand, the second group, these two are the ones who won Mr. and Mrs. Bonifacio last year." the host continued.
As she mentioned them, not far from her, the two individuals took notice and waved at the crowd.
"Oh, so they also have this one," I mumbled.
I'm not surprised, considering my old school hosted a similar event. I didn't care about something like that; I just acknowledged its existence. This Mr. and Mrs. tradition functions like an honorary title within the school. It's typically awarded through a beauty pageant, determining the best muse and escort. Then the winners are crowned as Mr. and Mrs. of the school, such as Mr. and Mrs. Bonifacio.
Observing the individuals crowned as Mr. and Mrs. Bonifacio last year, there's no denying both look astounding. Not to be jealous of their looks, but they truly deserve to hold that title with their impressive appearance.
Despite what I stated, I don't know about the other participants, how they looked, and the distinctions between them and the winners. The competition often hinges on popularity.
"Okay, both of you—the dance club and Mr. & Mrs. Bonifacio—do you have anything to say to the freshmen?" the host inquired.
Understanding the host's words, Mr. and Mrs. Bonifacio took the initiative to address the new students.
"Ah, yes. Hello everyone, as mentioned earlier, we're Mr. and Mrs. Bonifacio from last year. And since you guys already know what it is, then the thing I'll say will be easier. The spot for Mr. and Mrs. Bonifacio will always change annually. So…."
Among the two, the one who was talking was the female. She was about to say something but paused a little before continuing.
"To those who are confident, try joining the competition." she smirkingly said.
After saying that, the mood fell into silence.
Not knowing what the reason was, I tried to look around and noticed that some of the girls were wearing an annoyed face. Not realizing why, I look at the direction they are facing.
As I observed, I still couldn't comprehend the reason. The girl's focus was on the stage. Given the stage's considerable size, it took some effort to pinpoint where the center of attention lay.
"Hmm…."
Looking at it carefully, yep, I don't know why.
As I gave up on finding the reason, another voice rang on the stage, snapping me from my thoughts.
"... Ahem, as we mentioned, the competition for Mr. and Mrs. Bonifacio happens yearly. The event will take place this year, providing a great opportunity for some of you to participate and potentially become Mr. and Mrs. Bonifacio."
It was now the male started talking. Unlike the female from before, his voice exuded a calming tone. It wasn't that loud, yet it effortlessly captured everyone's attention, especially the girls. The girls' weird mood suddenly shifted to another unusual mood. Their eyes seem to sparkle when they're looking in front for some reason.
"Oh, so you are encouraging them to join the fight for the title?" the host butt in.
"...that's weird to put it that way, but yes, I'm encouraging them to join. Taking a closer look at them, I can see some potential." The male replied.
"Oh my, hear that freshman? Mr. Bonifacio itself praises you guys. So be confident, right, Mrs. Bonifacio?" per saying that the host glances at the specific person.
The person noticed it and replied, "...yeah."
"Anyway, do you have anything else to say?" The host lost interest in the female and soon shifted its attention to the male.
And it didn't take long before the male could answer, "No, that's all I could say."
"Well then, let's proceed to the next group. The dance club."
Hearing them mention their group, a particular individual stepped onto the stage.
Onstage, a captivating figure emerged, adorned with flowing locks that cascaded like silk, accentuating a slender, graceful frame. In a word, that person was a vision of femininity. Without a need for an elaborate introduction, it became evident that she held the enchanting role of the dance club's representative.
Seeing the person figure emerge onto the stage, the host takes notice of the individual.
"So, do you guys have something to say to the freshman?" the host asked.
Handing one of the microphones to the dance club representative, she stood confidently and spoke, "This wouldn't take long since it'll be quick on what I am about to say. Our club is open to new members, so if you're interested, feel free to message our Facebook page. Whether you're talented or just starting, we welcome everyone. That's all."
Having concluded her sentence, she returned the microphone and stepped down from the stage.
"Okay, thank you to the dance club president for that brief announcement," the host replied, glancing at the individual. Afterward, she returned her focus to the crowd and continued, "Did you all hear what the dance club president said? You can join the club or the dance group, regardless of your skill."
With that said, I'm not interested in joining any club, so the recruitment announcement from the dance club doesn't concern me.
Although, that isn't the case for others. Some of them are interested in this matter.
"Ms. Tuazon, enough with the opening; let's get started with the orientation." Suddenly, a teacher spoke to the host from the left side of the ground beside the stage.
"Oh, right, sorry for the delay," the host replied to the teacher. Then, she redirected her attention back to the crowd. "Okay, everyone, enough with the fun stuff. Let's get started with the orientation."
The orientation finally began, just as the host had mentioned. Another piece of music started, and the crowd fell silent. The music wasn't particularly loud or grand; instead, it resembled the background music from a survey ad on YouTube. It wasn't in particular exciting.
As the music continued, the host proceeded to speak. The words flowing from her mouth served as an introduction to a particular individual.
The host introduced that person as the principal of Bonifacio High.
"Good morning, everyone. As Ms. Tuazon mentioned, I'm the principal of this school," the principal said before continuing with a speech. "I wholeheartedly welcome each one of you to this school. With 1,000 new students joining us this year, I look forward to witnessing the growth of each of you during your time here. May your years at this school be filled with joy, growth, and memorable experiences."
"Alright. Thank you, our dear principal, for that great speech."
Right after the principal finished his speech, the host promptly took over. Waving to signal the principal's departure, she left the stage, making way for another individual.
While not at the same level as the principal, this individual still held significant importance in the school. This person was the head of the guidance office.
The head of the guidance office explained the rules and regulations of Bonifacio High, covering everything from schedules to the dos and don'ts of the school. The presentation also addressed issues like cleanliness, including vandalism and so on. Furthermore, it emphasized the school's surveillance system, utilizing CCTV cameras to monitor the entire campus.
"Remember, don't make any mishaps or else you will get suspended or, worse, expulsion from this school," she cautioned us, the incoming students.
What she said was not a threat or an attempt to scare us. It was simply the standard system, no different from others. We only need to follow, not because it's imposed, but because it's convenient.
"Okay, that's all I can say about the rules and regulations. May you all have a nice stay in this school."
The head of the guidance office already finished her time talking and left the stage. Then again, the host took over.
"Okay, that's for our rules and regulations in Bonifacio High. Now let's welcome the–"
The host's sentence was abruptly interrupted when loud music suddenly rang on the stage. Shortly after, a group of young men and women entered the stage.
Once they were perfectly aligned in a row and facing the crowd–the music playing in the background stopped. Following this, a female individual stepped forward from the formed line and positioned herself at the front.
"Hello, everyone, we are the SSG of Bonifacio High." She introduced themselves as the SSG.
SSG, or Supreme Student Government, is common in every school. Their role is to–I'm not entirely sure what they do. I've seen them organize events, but I don't think that's their sole purpose.
Standing there on the stage, they discussed how they would innovate the school, casually mentioning upcoming events and changes that would take place. It was to give us a glimpse of what to expect during our stay in this school.
After discussing innovation, they redirected their attention to ensuring peace and order among students. Much like the guidance office, the SSG also elaborated on its own rules for the school, emphasizing their benefits for the students.
After that, what followed seemed somewhat out of place for an announcement.
"Senior High only consists of two years. Currently, most of us in SSG are in our second year. So, sooner or later, we'll be stepping down. The opportunity to run for SSG positions will be open to the first-year students, as we, the second-years, are focused on preparing for graduation and university."
What an unexpected time to declare resignation, and in such a rounded way. Hearing what she said made other members panic, prompting them to explain thoroughly to her.
She let out a soft 'Eh' as her peers scolded her. I couldn't catch the details of their conversation due to their mumbling, but judging by her expression, it seemed like she was getting an earful.
After the lengthy discussion among the SSG (although not that long), the representative again turned to the crowd and said, "As I mentioned before, only first-year students are eligible to run for SSG this year. However, we will continue handling the SSG until the second semester, when the election for SSG will take place. By that time, we, the second-years, will be concentrating on our college studies for entrance exams and preparing for graduation. So, for those eager to bring positive changes to the school, feel free to try."
Done with her speech, the representative left the front looking gloomy and returned to the line they had formed.
Seeing the representative finished with their speech, the host takes over again.
"Okay, let's thank the President of SSG for the brief innovation and announcement."
As the host said that, the SSG left the stage slowly.
"Okay, next was…. We've prepared a video, so let's watch it."
Right after she finished speaking, she left the stage, and suddenly, a light emitted from a projector stationed in front of the crowd and directly focused on the stage wall.