By Prezylla Claris Bongbonga
“Learning to grow and mature more each step”
The definition of “MALAYA” to a senior high school student as they reflect on their journey leading up to the big event, is a balance between managing their time wisely, keeping up with studies, and handling other priorities as they prepare.
With less than a week until the MALAYA event, students at International Colleges for Excellence, Inc. (ICE) are filled with excitement as they prepare. Joy, nervousness, exhaustion, and determination are all mixed together on campus as ICEans start off their practices during free time or after classes. Each group is dedicated to showcase performances that represent their creativity and teamwork, encouraging them more to step out from their comfort zones. As laughter passes throughout their barracks, a joyful environment comes out in which friendships grow and challenges become steppingstones toward their goals. It’s not just about practice; it’s about relighting a thrilling adventure that sparks their talents, sharpens their skills, and brings them together in teamwork.
At 1-3 PM, the practices begin. Students head to their barracks, where the scent of fresh paint lingers from props being crafted. The environment buzzes with energy as choreographies are created, and performances are polished. It’s a busy week, with every hour filled with preparation, no time is wasted.
“Nakakapagod, pero mas nakakaenjoy lalo na you’re able to meet new friends, mga nakakacollab mo yung mga taong hindi mo familiar with,” says Hannah Angulo, a Grade 11 student and member of the fitness dance group for MALAYA. “Ang unique kasi mas nagiging mindful kami sa oras, and natututo kami maging responsible and matured.” Hannah shares her experience juggling responsibilities within her group, serving not only as a dancer but also assisting with props. She reflects on how accountability has pushed her to grow, teaching her the importance of time management and collaboration.
“Nakakaexcite! Alam mo yung parang magbabagbagan kayo?” Clint Vargas, a Grade 12 student and part of the street dance group, shares with a grin. “Lalo na sa street dance, kasi ang kabog! Palaban na palaban, talagang hindi ka papatalo eh.”
As Clint takes a break after their intense practice, he watches the other groups rehearse, noting their impressive performances. Seeing how good they are makes him even more competitive to give his best. “Ang kabog!” he exclaims, expressing his emotions shining through.
“It’s quite a new experience for me—new people to meet, and new experiences to enjoy!” shares Grade 11 student, Nicole Piso, reflecting on her excitement for MALAYA.
“Mas naeexecute nang mabuti lahat nito kapag may teamwork tayo, lalo na kapag maraming gagawin,” adds Jayvil Daus, a Grade 11 propsman helping to create sets for his group. “May mga tao kang makikilala na hindi mo forte, like iba-ibang klaseng tao, pero you know… understand them na lang. Teamwork is the best! Nagkakaroon tayo ng unity.”
Jayvil shares how working with people from different backgrounds has helped him realize the importance of respecting others, regardless of their differences. Despite varying personalities, they all work together to achieve their goal—not just to perform, but to enjoy the experience.
As the days draw closer to the event, ICEans are determined to pour their hearts into preparations. What started as simple rehearsals has transformed into a journey of personal growth, passion, determination, responsibility, and connection. The excitement among the students is palpable, and while exhaustion is inevitable, the joy of working hard towards a shared goal overs the challenges.
MALAYA is not just a word for freedom, or an event—it means that you can do anything in creativity, teamwork, and stepping outside your comfort zone. Each student brings their unique skills and strengths, but together they form something even greater: as a team. As the performances improve, so too does a sense of hardship, with every practice, every shared moment, and every struggle contributing to the spirit of the event.
“With great power comes great responsibility” — as popularized in Spiderman.
A reminder that freedom calls for a commitment to living a life meaningfully. Ultimately, the true meaning of MALAYA lies in the connections they’ve built and the lessons learned along the way, making each moment a way toward not just a successful event but a brighter future.