By Alexia Bangayan

On Friday, February 6, the Ateneo Senior High School (ASHS) Commission on Elections (ComElec) conducted “Tanglaw,” a leadership discernment seminar for students aspiring to a position in the Sanggunian, at the Makerspace of the Formation and Learning Center (FLC).

The first speaker, Ms. Nadine Acul-Acul, ASHS Sanggunian President for the school year (S.Y.) 2022–2023, shared her journey and experiences as a student leader.

She stated, ‘‘Leadership is not about the certainty of success, but the commitment and humility to continue serving despite the tough realities that come with it.’’

She also encouraged the aspirants to reflect on their ability to care for others, saying, ‘‘If you find your reason to care, then everything else will follow.’’

The second speaker, Mx. Kaira Catacutan from the Christian Service and Involvement Program (CSIP) department, tackled platform building and urged students to begin with a clear purpose.

Catacutan emphasized that student platforms should be centered on “T.A.O.,” which stands for Tanong, Abilidad, at Oras.

They explained the importance of approaching stakeholders, aligning initiatives with one’s abilities, the Sanggunian and Atenean values, and being mindful of time constraints.

After the seminar, breakout rooms were held for each sector, allowing participants to ask about the electoral process and more details about the sector to further familiarize themselves with the councils they intend to apply for.

The Assembly of Class Officers (ACO) remained in the same room; the Athletes’ Council (AthC) and Council of Student Committees (CSC) went to the Multipurpose Room 1; and the Council of Student Organizations (CSO) and Office of the President (OP) gathered at the music room.

The seminar is part of the ComElec’s preparation for the Second Election Season, which will include the Executive Council, Strand Council chairpersons, CSO District heads, and officers for organizations, sports clubs, and committees (OSCCs).