
Principal’s Corner
Ms. Maureen Juanson (Elementary School Principal, PYP Coordinator & Accreditation Officer)
CIS proudly embraces the cultural richness of its host country, the Philippines, by integrating its heritage into school life. In alignment with the IB philosophy of fostering international-mindedness and intercultural understanding, CIS provides meaningful opportunities for students to explore and appreciate Filipino traditions, languages, and values.
Philippine Language and Culture Classes
CIS’ Philippine Language and Culture (PLC) program, a key feature of its elementary curriculum, helps students build intercultural awareness and international-mindedness. Through authentic learning experiences rooted in local and global contexts, students gain a deeper understanding of the Philippines’ diverse culture, history, and geography.
PLC encourages students to reflect on their cultural identities while fostering respect for others’ traditions. By highlighting the connections between global citizenship and local heritage, CIS empowers students to thrive in an interconnected world, a key principle of the IB philosophy.
Philippine Culture Week
This week, CIS celebrated Philippine Culture Week, immersing students in a variety of engaging activities that highlight Filipino heritage. Students learned traditional dances and created art inspired by local culture and reflected the country’s vibrant traditions. They explored Filipino childhood experiences through traditional games, rode a jeepney to experience the iconic public transportation, and tasted sorbetes, a beloved local ice cream treat. These hands-on experiences bring learning to life, fostering a sense of appreciation for the host country’s heritage while connecting to the IB’s emphasis on meaningful, real-world learning.
Sinulog Family Day
CIS’s commitment to honoring its host country continues with its participation in the grand Sinulog Festival, Cebu’s most celebrated cultural event. On Saturday, January 18, the school will host a Sinulog Family Day, featuring a colorful parade and dance to honor the Santo Niño, traditional Filipino games that foster community spirit, and a fiesta lunch that reflects the warmth and hospitality of Filipino culture. We encourage CIS family members and friends to join the festivities!
Living the IB Mission
Through these efforts, CIS exemplifies the IB mission of cultivating respect and understanding for cultural diversity. By immersing students in the Philippines’ rich heritage, the school fosters inclusive, empathetic, and globally minded learners, strengthening the bond between its community and the host country.
Upcoming events of note
- Jan. 13 -17: Philippine Culture Week
- Sat, Jan. 18: Sinulog Family Day / HAD 2
- Mon, Jan 20: School Holiday
- Tue, Jan 21: ASA’s Start ( After School Activities)
- Jan 22 – 26: ISAC2 @ BSM
- Tue, Jan 28: 100th day of school
- Wed, Jan 29: Holiday (Chinese New Year)
- Thu, Jan 30: Chines New Year Assembly
Please refer to the CIS Event Calendar for the complete calendar of school events.
Philippine Culture Week
by: Michelle Lacerna, Jojie Malinao, and Janelle Belono-ac, Philippine Language and Culture Teachers
During a vibrant week-long celebration, elementary students were deeply immersed in the rich and colorful culture of the Philippines for Philippine Culture Week. The festivities kicked off with a video presentation showcasing the unique highlights of the Philippines. Throughout the week, students engaged in a various activities, including traditional dances, colorful art projects, and exciting games.
The excitement peaked with a special trip on a traditional jeepney. Students experienced the local custom of handing the fare, or “plete”, to the driver, adding a touch of real-life cultural immersion. The week concluded with a sweet treat as everyone indulged in sorbetes, a traditional Filipino ice cream, savoring its unique and delightful flavors.
Philippine Culture Week provided a fantastic opportunity for students to explore the vibrant traditions of the Philippines. Through hands-on activities and immersive experiences, they discovered the unique customs that define Filipino culture. The week was about cultural exploration and reflected the students’ growing appreciation for diversity and global-mindedness. It deepened their understanding of cultural diversity and emphasized the importance of preserving these traditions. The highlight of the week was the students’ enthusiasm and curiosity, creating a memorable journey of learning, connection, and celebration that left everyone with a lasting appreciation for Filipino culture.
College & Careers Counselor Corner
by Ms. Jenny Basa, College Counselor
Feature: An IB Journey of Success – Robert Ethan Lu (CIS ’24, NYU ’28)
CIS alumnus, Robert Ethan Lu recently shared his inspiring IB journey and how it has shaped his transition to college life at New York University (NYU). As a student now pursuing engineering and design, Robert highlighted how his rigorous IB Diploma Programme (IBDP) classes equipped him with critical academic and time management skills that have proven invaluable in his current university courses.
In his talk, Robert candidly discussed the challenges of transitioning to university life, from budgeting and adapting to smaller class sizes to missing Filipino food. He also offered practical advice for students preparing for similar transitions, emphasizing the importance of staying in touch with loved ones, making new friends, being open-minded, and preparing for independence.
Robert’s story is a testament to how the IB prepares students not only for academic success but also for life beyond the classroom. He encouraged the G11 and G12 students to embrace the challenges ahead and enjoy the journey, closing with insights on his life in New York and tips for future university-bound students.
Sinulog Trade Fair
January 14-18, 2025
Venue: Canteen Annex
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Local, organic and farm-grown products
Franciscan Sisters
Plants and hand-made paper products
SAT 2024-2025 Test Dates
SAT Registration Is Now Open
Test Dates | Registration Deadlines | Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation and Late Registration Deadlines* |
March 8, 2025 | February 21, 2025 | February 25, 2025 |
May 3, 2025 | April 18, 2025 | April 22, 2025 |
June 7, 2025 | May 22, 2025 | May 27, 2025 |
*Additional Fees apply
To register for the SAT, you may click on this link. If you need assistance or have any questions, please feel free to email Ms. Jenny Basa at jbasa@cis.edu.ph.