TheAdamsonChronicle
I may disagree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it. -Voltaire
Informing, Inspiring, and Influencing the Community since 1941
The Autonomous and Official Student Publication of Adamson University
JANUARY - MAY 2020
VOLUME XIII NO. 3
HUMAN INTEREST>>THE FACE MASK...
ARTS AND LETTERS>>GISING NA
SCIENCE AND TECH>>COVID-19...
ENTERTAINMENT>>’PARASITE REVIEW:...
LAMPOON>>IKOT IKOT LANG
AdU responds to COVID-19, helps poor amid ECQ
By: Antonio Gabriel D. Tongco
ADAMSON UNIVERSITY’S RESPONSE TO THE PANDEMIC. Fr. Marcelo V. Manimtim, CM. reaching out and giving foods to the passerby affected by the pandemic in Kalaw St., Manila. IMAGE SOURCE: ADAMSON UNIVERSITY
Since the declaration of the Luzon-wide enhanced community quarantine (ECQ), Adamson University has been active with its relief efforts to help lowincome families as well as the street dwellers survive this COVID-19 pandemic. AdU responded immeditely, launching donation drive “Program
COVID: Charity Over Virus Indifference and Despair” on the first week of the ECQ, aiming to assist medical front liners and financially struggling families throughout its duration. The charity program was initiated in partnership with the San Vicente de Paul (SVP) Parish and the Miraculous
Medal Apostolate (MMA). The Vincentian institutions accepted cash donations through bank and online transfers as well as in-kind drop-offs through the SVP Parish. Vincent Helps, an initiative unifying the relief efforts of various Vincentian communities for victims of the Taal Volcano eruption,
was also relaunched two months later to distribute goods to families affected by the ECQ. It comprised of the St. Vincent Seminary (SVS) Complex (the St. Vincent Seminary, Santuario de San Vincente Paul Parish and Shrine of the Poor, De Paul House, Provincial House,
HIMIG busks for Taal victims, sees music as a tool to reach out By: Aeron Gabriel Pantig and Paul Adrian Hular
ADU RESPONDS/P3
COVID-19 threat affects AdU, RSOs’ activities By: Aeron Gabriel V. Pantig
PREVENTIVE MEASURES. An Adamsonian wearing a face mask sanitizes his hands as a measure against the COVID-19 pandemic. PHOTO BY JOHN ALVIN TAN /TheAdamsonChronicle
/ADUchronicle
As a precautionary measure against possible massive coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak in the Philippines, Adamson University decided to postpone upcoming activities in line with the 88th Founding Anniversary of the institution such as the Falcon Fair, Falcon Run 10, Palakasan Sports Festival and Falcon Fete. The University also
advised the Recognized Student Organizations (RSOs) to shelf their events until the preemptive action is lifted. The Adamson Chronicle’s annual event, Gunita, in celebration of the National Arts Month, was also affected by the virus. The decision of the University came after the Commission on Higher
issuu.com/aduchronicle
COVID-19 THREAT/P3
VINCENTIAN SPIRIT. Member of HIMIG Musicians of Adamson University serenade the passersby at the Kartilya ng Katipunan for monetary donations. PHOTO BY JOHN ALVIN TAN
The HIMIG- Musicians of Adamson University orchestrated music performaces to call for donations for the victims of the Taal Volcano eruption in Batangas. The organization collected a total of 37,000
chronicle@adamson.edu.ph
pesos in the four days that they performed at the Luneta Park, Kartilya ng Katipunan, and LRT Central Station. HIMIG members used the busking proceeds to buy the victims’ necessities such as HIMIG BUSKS/P3
Adamson Chronicle, 2nd floor, Francis Regis Clet Bldg.,Adamson University, San Marcelino St., Ermita,1000 Manila, Philippines
Page 2 • News
TheAdamsonChronicle •VolumeXIII No.3
Vincentians bid farewell to Adamsonian ‘Healing Priest’ By: Aeron Gabriel V. Pantig
HEALING PRIEST RETURNS TO THE CREATOR. Hundred of devotees, friends and loved ones mourn upon the burial of Fr. Fernando Suarez at little Bridge Resort in Brgy. Butong,Taal Batangas. PHOTO BY ALECKINE TROY RADA
Renowned ‘healing priest’ Fr. Fernando Suarez, an Adamson University alumnus, passed away after collapsing while competing in a tennis tournament he organized at the Alabang Country Club last February 4. Fr. Suarez is among
the recipients of the 75 Outstanding Alumni of the University last 2009. The priest finished his Chemical Engineering degree in the University in 1988 and eventually entered the Companions of the Cross order to pursue priesthood.
The Children of Mary, a Vincentian religious organization, together with Adamson University President Fr. Marcelo Manimtim, CM and Campus Ministry Office Chaplain Fr. Agustin Advincula, CM attended the burial of Fr.
Suarez held last February 16 at the Little Bridge Resort in Brgy. Butong, Taal, Batangas. A thanksgiving mass in the morning was headed by Rev. Fr. Emil Santos, SDB and Rev. Fr. Ricky Ignacio, MF who came from the Diocese of Rome. During the
mass, both priests, who were one of the closest friends of Fr. Suarez in his chosen vocation, reminisced their memories with Fr. Suarez. Meanwhile, the funeral mass in the afternoon was attended by hundreds of devotees, friends, and former schoolmates. In his homily, Bishop Antonio Palang recalled the good deeds done by Fr. Suarez including his desire to be assigned in a place where most priest do not want to be assigned. It is on the island of Ilin which belongs to the municipality of San Jose, Mindoro Occidental and a 45-minute boat ride away from the mainland is needed. Ilin, being a remote island, has shortage on both electricity and water, but through the charity works of Fr. Suarez and fellow missionaries of Mary Mother of the Poor, they were able to give assistance and built the Santisima Trinidad Chapel, the first permanent place of Catholic worship on Ilin. Fr. Suarez was known for his healing masses, but unknown to many he also took up missionary and charity works. He helped a group of rehabilitated prisoners who are now known as the
Contemplative Brothers of the Mary Mother of the Poor Foundation. Fr. Suarez also gathered thousands of food packs for the evacuees during the Taal Volcano eruption. He even visited evacuation centers that were not reached by some relief efforts, fed the evacuees, and celebrated Mass there. He was 16 when Fr. Fernando Suarez’ healing gift first manifested. He found a paralyzed woman outside the Santa Cruz Church and offered her prayers. After praying one Hail Mary, one Our Father, and one Glory Be, the woman stood up and started to walk again. Even having detractors due to a case that the Vatican has already cleared him, Fr. Fernando Suarez embodied how Vincentians and Adamsonians should be until his last days; to be compassionate to those who have less. Fr. Suarez would have turned 53 years old last Febuary 7. A biopic showing the the journey of Fr. Fernando Suarez has already kicked into full-on development. The film is directed by Joven Tan and starred by multi-awarded actor John Arcilla.
Adamsonians prevail in Emerson Innovation Challenge
By: Keith Joseph Dizon
Students from the Computer Science and Electronics engineering departments of Adamson University triumphed in the 2nd Emerson Innovation Challenge held at Miriam College, Quezon City on November 20, 2019. The annual program hosted by Emerson, a multinational electronics corporation, hoped to promote cutting edge ideas and projects presented by the next generation of Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)-related youth. Adamsonians Zeldrix Don, Jay Bhie Santos, Jomar Mansilungan, Reina Salanguit, and Angelo Erasmo headed the development of the project while being mentored by faculty members Engr. Jasper Meynard Araña and Mr. Edward Bustillos. Project ISDA, Adamson’s winning entry, applied the modern electronics trend of Internet of Things to a buoyant dissolved oxygen monitoring and alarm system, targeting the prevention of fish kill for small-scale fish farmers. The entry claimed the first place trophy as well as a P100,000 cash prize.
With a theme of “digital transformation”, the Adamson students focused on addressing the modernization of industries which are still practicing traditional, nonautomated methods. “Nilagay naming ‘yung sarili namin sa posisyon ng iba’t ibang sectors ng natural resources sa Pilipinas at tiningnan namin kung matutulungan ba ng modernized na equipment ‘yung field na ‘yon,” shared BS Electronics Engineering student Jay Bhie Santos when asked about the formation of the project concept. Judges of the contest followed criteria that discerned the impact, feasibility, ingenuity, execution of the prototype, and presentation quality. The Polytechnic University of the Philippines grabbed the 1st runner up spot with Project Haya, a search and rescue system for a cash prize of P50,000. Asia Pacific College’s public security app, Lawin, won 2nd runner up for a cash prize of P25,000. Other participants of the event were Mapúa University, Bulacan State University, the Technological Institute of the Philippines, and the University of Sto. Tomas.
SOARING HIGH. Student and Faculty Members of the Computer Science and Electronics Engineering Department of Adamson University receive the first place trophy and cash prize in the 2nd Emerson Innovation Challenge at Miriam College, Quezon City. PHOTO BY JOHN ALVIN TAN
TheAdamsonChronicle •VolumeXIII No.3
Page 3 • News
Adamson produces topnotchers in Architecture and Mechanical Eng’g Boards By: Paul Adrian D. Hular and Christian Joshua Corcuera
IMAGE SOURCE: WWW.PRC.GOV.PH
Adamsonian Architect Karsten Asuque placed third in the Architecture Licensure Exam (ALE) last January 20 with the average of 83% while Adamson University. tallied 26 passers with 50.98% passing rate. The Adamsonian who passed the licensure exam on his first take shared that he was not expecting to break into the Top 10 passer’s list.”I was really glad and surprised, I did not even bother to look at the topnotcher’s list until my friends congratulated me in social media,” Arch. Asuque said. The freelance architect in-the-making graduated
from the University two years ago and decided to work under his mentor until he finally enrolled in a review center to prepare for the boards. “First 3 months of review, I found it difficult to balance my work and review so I filed for leave of absence to focus more on my study. For the past several months, we did everything to ensure that we’ll pass the exams,” the Batch 2017 alumnus stated. Another Adamsonian also soared in the recently conducted February 2020 Mechanical Engineering Licensure Examinations, Engr. Caiven A. Rasco took the seventh spot tallying
87.55%. Rasco, together with 28 other passers registered a passing rate of 52.73%. “That time, nasa grocery kasi ako and nagchecheck lang ng phone, tapos biglang nag-chat yung mga kaklase ko na nasa top daw ako, dun ako sa kotse nagsisigaw kasi pinag-pray ko rin talaga,” he recalled. Engr. Rasco also shared that despite of him being an average student in terms of academics, he made sure to fill these gaps with diligence in studying and a strong mindset. “Hindi kasi ako achiever sa college, at hindi rin cum laude. Dapat ‘di ka papasok ng review center na
ang goal ay makapasa lang, dapat ang goal mo, mag-top talaga,” he stressed. Aside from preparations prior to the exams, the real preparation came when he was still in college, inside the rooms of the OZ building. “Yung turo sa Adamson, I can say na malapit sa board exam, kumbaga masasabi ko na, mas mahirap pa yung quizzes at exams ko from my profs dito (AdU). I can say na, ‘pag dito ka nag-aral, ready ka talaga sa board exam,” he claimed. Still in celebratory mode, Engr. Rasco plans to take a break before working and reviewing to become a Master Plumber.
pesos to help the Zobel and Sylvia fire victims. “Actually, the heart wants what it wants. And nakikita ko naman sa heart ng HIMIG and sa mga students ditto is sobrang willing nilang tumulong,” Ibañez said. The HIMIG also shared his optimism for the members of the organization to continue to use their talents in reaching out and helping other people in the years to come. “Na isang tawag mo lang, kahit medyo busy sila, basta alam nila yung cause, na makakatulong sila, tutulong at tutulong talaga sila,” he added. Aside from reaching out to help the victims of both Zobel fire and Taal Volcano eruption which is their main
Education (CHED) directed all higher education institutions (HEIs) to observe the guidelines of health authorities to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, a disease caused by a coronavirus, among students and personnel. While there is still no vaccine available to prevent the virus, the Commission also urged institutions’ screening protocols to be based on the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines and to provide adequate medical supplies including clean and functional handwashing stations, soap, paper towels, and alcohol-based sanitizers. The instructions raised by CHED is upon the recommendation of the Department of Health (DOH) to “avoid attending, participating in, and organizing events that draw a huge number of attendees.” Other precautionary actions Aside from delaying the scheduled activities, the University also implemented other necessary measures to prevent and mitigate possible transmission of COVID-19. Last January 31, after the DOH confirmed the first case
of COVID-19 in the country, the Office of the President released a memorandum regarding the University's move against the threat of the novel coronavirus. However, the memorandum received online backlash for ordering all its Chinese students to quarantine themselves for two weeks "to ensure a healthy and virus-free environment." After it reached various local news outlets the next day, the Office of the President amended the memorandum and included all students, staff, and stakeholders who have traveled to and from countries with confirmed cases of COVID-19. The University has provided alcohol-based sanitizers on all the entries and exit points of the campus. Security personnels deployed in each gate were also given thermal scanners to check the temperature of every person entering the University. Four p l y surgical face masks are also available at the University clinics as the institution continues to take precautionary measures to prevent the virus from spreading within the campus.
ADU RESPONDS/P1
BENEVOLENCE AMID THE PANDEMIC. “Momshie” eatery located at San Marcelino Street are preparing hot meals daily for the street dwellers affected by pandemic in collaboration with Adamson University. IMAGE SOURCE: ADAMSON UNIVERSITY
COVID-19 THREAT/P1 clean water, toiletries, N-95 masks, and canned goods. “Yung naisip namin for the taal victims is wala ring kaming masyadong magagawa and we don’t have any means in terms of money so ang ginawa namin is mag r-reach out kami through busking at least yung talent namin is nagagamit namin for a cost,” HIMIG President Prince Ainiel V. Ibañez said. Ibañez shared that the idea started when HIMIG members bushed to call for donations for Adamsonians and residents of the Zobel and Sylvia streets fire that blazed multiple properties and dormitories last September 27, 2019. Through music performances, the organization collected roughly around 25,000
COVID-19 THREAT/P1
HELPING HAND. Passerby donate money for the victims of Taal Volcano eruption for the HIMIG buskers at Liwasang Bonifacio. PHOTO BY JOHN ALVIN TAN
objective, the secondary goal of the organization in conducting buskings is to boost each others confidence. During their busking, there are times that the singing Samaritans are being shooed away from their usual spots and are left
with no option but to find another place where they can showcase their talent but that did not stop them from doing what they are passionate about and that is to hit two birds with one stone---perform and help at the same time.
and Vincentian Foundation), Our Lady of Miraculous Medal National Shrine Parish, Daughters of Charity Provincial House, and AdU. Freshly cooked meals were also distributed daily to homeless families, street dwellers, and front liners along Luneta Park, Kalaw Ave., and San Marcelino Street. At the same time, relief goods from both Program COVID and Vincent Helps covered many cities in Metro Manila, such as Caloocan, Valenzuela, Quezon, and Parañaque, as well as the Rizal Province in CALABARZON. As of April 16, Program COVID had raised P1,295,082 of cash
donations from friends of the Vincentian Central House Community, SVP Parishoners and MMA promoters and devotees. Donations were also given by AdU Graduate School’s Vincentian Heritage Classes. The Adamson Administrators, faculty and staff, as well as recognized student organizations made sure to chip in for the donations. Meanwhile, the institution also extended its help to medical front liners, as they opened university dorms for 24-30 staff members of the Philippine General Hospital and lent three buses to the Makati Medical Center.
Page 4 • Editorial
VolumeXIII No.3 January - March 2020
TheAdamsonChronicle •VolumeXIII No.3
End Digital Divide First
TheAdamsonChronicle The Autonomous and Official Student Publication of Adamson University
The Adamson Chronicle is the official Student Publication of the Adamson University. It is an autonomous student organization and classified as a tertiary level student publication that aims to serve the University community, especially the students through the dissemination of relevant, reliable, and impartial information, and the advancement of civil liberties, social consciousness, nationalism, humanities, and Vincentian values through responsible campus journalism.
Nina Pia M. Boco, BA Comm Editor-in-Chief
Aeron Gabriel V. Pantig, BA Comm Associate Editor & Sports / News Editor
Lloyd Raphael R. Navarro, BSBA-MM Managing Editor & Senior Layout Artist
Verity Anne N. Banogbanog, BA Pol Sci Human Interest / Literary Editor
Keith Joseph T. Dizon, BS ECE
Science Technology / Entertainment Editor
Diana Ann G. Tuazon, BSCE Chief Layout Artist & Online Manager
John Alvin A Tan, BSME Chief Photojournalist
Mark Joshua Basalo, BS Arch Chief Illustrator
Laurence B. Arellano, BA Comm Office Manager & Senior Staff Writer
Jeleen Jade R. Milca, BA Pol Sci. Senior Staff Writer
Jake Danielle M. Demafelix, BSCE Aleckine Troy N. Rada, BSME Ser Christian Albert I. Capoquian, BA Comm Senior Photojournalists
Janelle Ava S. Alcala, BA Pol Sci John Renz P. Tubale, BA Comm Senior Illustrators
Paul Adrian D. Hular, BA Pol Sci Antonio Gabriel D. Tongco, BA Comm Christian Joshua D. Corcuera, BSA Junior Staff Writers
Ricardo Martin H. Tecala, BSCE Trisha Mae. P Bernardo, BA Pol Sci Junior Layout Artists
Reanne Mae A. Bernardo, BSCS Junior Photojournalist
Ysea Francis B. Asprer, BSCA Junior Illustrator
Glenn Ace P. Parungao Technical Adviser
Almost four months into this COVID-19 pandemic and there is still no concrete plan how the educational system of the Philippines will move forward. Since President Duterte declared that he will not allow face-to-face classes until a coronavirus vaccine is available, the most pushed for solution is to continue the classes through online applications and have modules sent through e-mail. The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) also encouraged institutions to utilize “available distance learning, e-learning, and other alternative modes of delivery in lieu of residential learning if they have the resources to do so.” Definitely, technology
has improved education to the point that there are now schools equipped with smart classrooms. However, it is uncertain that students will be able to cope with the technological changes in learning system given that there is an ongoing global health crisis. Despite the gray areas of online classes, many universities, including Adamson University, have opted to proceed with the new school year through online and modular learning using a platform called “Blackboard” that was developed for students to utilize and have better learning experience without a face-to-face classes. The university have also offered a loan system for laptops and tablets for
its students. Although it is a good initiative coming from the University, the bigger concern is not about the students not having the devices but rather, the digital divide. As sstudents are coming from different parts of the Philippines, having a strong and sufficient connection to ensure a stable online learning experience is questionable. In 2019, the Philippines ranked 103rd among 139 surveyed countries in terms of mobile internet speed according to the Speedtest Global Index. The Philippines is also ranked highest among countries with the most expensive internet connections. With these rankings, how will the government and even
private institutions ensure the learning and education that the students will need? Initiating an academic freeze may be the best option right now. It will give the government the time to conduct mass testing and focus on flattening the curve and at the same time, it will ease families off burden to provide tuition fees. An academic freeze must be considered because as long as there are underprivileged students and digital divide cutting deeper into our educational system, there will be students left behind. Education must not be taken as a privilege in order for the youth to fulfill its duty as “the hope of the nation”. No student should be left behind.
TheAdamsonChronicle •VolumeXIII No.3
We can have our say, too. Individuals encounter different challenges in every phase of their lives – from being spoilt kids to independent teenagers, rags to riches, or apathetic privileged uptown men to becoming part of the exploited labor force. Each demand tends to follow from each struggle.
Everything’s Unequal Oxford English Dictionary defines equality as a person or thing considered to be the same as another in status or quality. There is only one race, the human race. Ideally, we are properly taught that we should treat others like how we want to be treated — as if we are all equals. A society divided us by our appearance, ethnicity, beliefs, and the like. The
Page 5 • Editorial
Then, there are some people who impose that they live in the “reality” because they are now getting paid from work, having own careers in the corporate world and responsibly pay their taxes. Because of that, these people believe that students do not have the rights to express what they feel and tell the truth about what they have observed in the society since they are not yet stepping in this norm called ‘reality’. Students are being called out as superficial and rigid when they give statements about the social issues that
rise within a community even though they are being critical and analytical on what they provide. Considering such issue, how can we – the students – embody the said maxim “the youth is the hope of our future”? Students are sent to the academe in order to learn, a pursuit of borderless knowledge – research and education – that would help contribute over a societal change. Nonetheless, they are also subject to criticisms. These criticisms must not be used against them rather provide an in-
depth knowledge to certain understandings because, as students, we should also be aware and responsive on what is actually happening in the society. Being critical and analytic are not exclusive to tax payers, and ‘reality’ is not absolutely defined by a specific situation. The elite class has its own perspective on what reality means, might as well the working masses, the students, basically each individual. Do not limit us, teach us. If you criticize us, enlighten us.
reality is, we live in an unequal world. Our university consists of colleges with multiple departments under it. Each department has different ways or cultures. Students can be categorized into groups; where each group varies to one another. Each department cannot be treated equally. Every college or department has different needs compared to another college or department. Engineering programs require you to take multiple mathematics and laboratory courses compared with liberal arts programs: theoretical and appreciation courses.
Students who belong to a certain category has a different way of expressing themselves. Expect architecture students to express themselves by drawing or illustrating something, or even through fashion or clothing. Engaging themselves to discourse about political discussions likewise for political science students. Not an extent to treat other programs a priority among the other. Policies should be different to every college/ department. Remember that every student belongs to a department and has various kinds of means. How
can art students express themselves if you limit them to wear such clothing, hair color, and tattoos? How can science students do their craft if you limit them to technology, innovation, and problem-solving situations? No wonder why some students can’t find their true passion. Right, it is much easier to control a community with one policy to all. There may exist another medium of expressing rather than school but if the academe also welcomes you to be who you are, isn’t it more delightful to learn and attend school?
Page 6 • Sports Feature
TheAdamsonChronicle •VolumeXIII No.3
Adamson WVT Preview: A new era begins for the Lady Falcons By: Aeron Gabriel V. Pantig
NEW BREED OF FALCONS IN THE NEST. Newly acquired multi-titled coach Tai Bundit huddles the AdU Women’s Volleyball Team during training in S.V. Gymnasium. PHOTO BY ALECKINE TROY RADA
It was in Season 76 when the Adamson Lady Falcons last entered the Final Four of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Women’s Volleyball Tournament. It was the time when the San Marcelinobased volleybelles was known for its notable floor defense anchored by some of the top athletes that Adamson proudly produced: Jema Galanza, Jellie Tempiatura, Amanda Villanueva, and national team member Mylene Paat. Years passed and the Lady Falcons went to a series of reboots. Former head coach Sherwin Meneses who called the shots for Adamson for four years was replaced by American mentor Airess Padda. However, the Lady Falcons struggled to find the right fit. During the two and a half seasons that Coach Air spent at the helm, Adamson only compiled a 7-24 win loss record. After a slow 0-3 slate to head start its Season 81 stint, Adamson parted ways with Coach Air and tapped assistant coach Rogelio “Onyok” Getigan to take over the team’s campaign for the rest of the season.
Coach Onyok has plenty of experience upon his sleeves after winning three Palarong Pambansa titles. Yet, it also didn’t work out well for Coach Onyok and the Lady Falcons, as they finished the season with only two victories. With a promising future ahead for the team as high school standouts from Kings Montessori School have committed to the blue and white banner, the newlyrebuilt Lady Falcons headed by Coach Lerma Giron made a statement during the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Collegiate Conference last year. Loaded with nine talented rookies in the lineup, the Lady Falcons notched an almost unblemished record, only giving up a game over the CSB Lady Blazers in the semis match up then sweeping the more experienced UST Golden Tigresses in the Finals. With four roookies in the starting six, the Lady Falcons ended its 10-year title drought and nailed Adamson’s firstever PVL crown. Flaunting dominance in the tournament and bagging several individual awards, it looks like a new era has begin for
the Lady Falcons. The Coach Tai effect As the Lady Falcons have been loaded with young bloods possessing great potentials, the University and Akari management made a move to amplify the team’s development. Last September, multi-titled coach Tai Bundit was tapped to be the Lady Falcon’s skills and training consultant. During his successful five-year stint with Ateneo, the decorated Thai mentor steered the Lady Eagles to back to back titles in Season 76 and 77 and four Final Four appearances. “Di maano (ma-explain) yung feeling eh kasi Coach Tai nga like si ate Jia (Morado) din yung idol ko so syempre nakakainspire din kung paano yung mga pinagdaanan nila. Kung yung hirap ba ng training na yun yung naging dahilan kung bakit,” rookie team captain Louie Romero shared when she found out that the multititled mentor will be part of their coaching staff. The youth-laden squad was heard shouting ‘happy, happy’ and ‘heartstrong’, and has been meditating on timeouts. The familiar
mindset that paved the way for Ateneo to a dominant Season 76-79 campaign. The playstyle that the Lady Falcons displayed during their PVL stint have also shown the influence of the Thai mentor’s program. But from being the team’s consultant, Tai Bundit will be standing by the sidelines as the Lady Falcons’ assistant coach for the upcoming UAAP season. Having an exceptional mentor with wide-range experience and knowledge upon his sleeves can easily create an instant impact on the team, whether it is on the players’ mindset or performance, or even both. As Coach Tai enters the Falcons’ Nest, it is undeniable that he has the capabilities to take the Lady Falcons into a new era; a winning era. Off-season training in Thailand To prepare themselves better for the upcoming season, the Lady Falcons underwent a rigid training in Thailand last January 6-17. The San Marcelino-
based volleybelles played a series of tune-up games against some of the best Thai collegiate teams as well as a couple of commercial clubs. “Of course pumunta tayo ng Thailand, not for leisure or everything, but to train and to work hard and expose yung mga bata sa mga teams na mas matataas yung levels. So far so good naman yung naging resulta, I think nakita ko naman na pagbalik dito naka gain sila ng experience,” head coach Lerma Giron shared. Aside from experience, Coach Lerma also mentioned that the Lady Falcons has developed better teamwork through the different challenges that tested the team. During those challeges and pressure tests, the coaching staff saw the flaws of the team which they worked on during practices. “Wala naman sinabing changes na nangyari overnight. Walang changes na nangyaring madalian na bigay ko sa’yo, okay na ‘yan. So natural thing siguro na na-a-undergo kami ng transition pero ang good thing is yung mga bata handa
matuto. Mahirap siya pero handa matuto so nag-gi-gain naman,” Coach Lerma said. A long wait for Season 83 There is no doubt that the Lady Falcons have what it takes to bring back the glory to San Marcelino if the UAAP wasn’t cancelled due to the pandemic. Adamson has already a complete set of arsenal to reign supreme. However, their debut battle against the National University Lady Bulldogs exploited several flaws of the team. Adamson was dealt a huge blow when Lucille Almonte was injured and Chen Ave can’t provide the necessary firepower to back up Trisha Genesis. Yet, the team has a long way to go and many things can still happen. Almonte can spend the whole time healing her injury to get back on track. The preparation for the next season will be crucial since other teams have been acquiring prized recruits amid the pandemic. But if there is one thing for sure, the Adamson Women’s Volleyball team is bound to a new era.
THE ADU LADY FALCONS, RISING TO THE FINAL FOUR. Adamson University Women’s Volleyball Team trains before the kick off of the upcoming UAAP Season 82 at the S.V. gymnasium. PHOTO BY ALECKINE TROY RADA
Adamson Softball Team: The makings of a champion and the charm behind the winning tradition By Paul Adrian D. Hular E i g h t e e n championships highlighted by a nine-year golden streak, 10-time SEA Games gold medalist, several national team-worthy players produced, countless recognitions and podium finishes and the list goes on and on, the architect behind this decade-long dominance and supremacy is a veteran
and national team coach hailing from Cavite, Ana Maria Santiago. The Adamson Softball Team has already carved its name in the growing pillars of successful collegiate sports team, they are slowly unveiling a dynasty and they will leave no stone unturned to capture its 19th crown that will make them
the winningest team in the last decade. With the softball tournament unveiling its curtains on February, the softbelles of San Marcelino are now locked and loaded to aim for the 10-peat---a rare feat in the history of collegiate sports. Recharging Falcons
The 30th SEA Games has proven the “unrivaled” status of the Philippine Softball Team sealing the gold via 8-0 slump of Indonesia in the finals. “Na-defend namin, ito ‘yung ika-sampung title namin sa SEA Games, nasweep namin lahat ng laro,” coach Ana shared. Aside from the biennial
stint, the softball wards also participated at the National Open Tournament where two Adamson teams faced for the gold medal matchup. These exposures will add depth to an already deep arsenal to catapult the Lady Falcons to the promised land. The Roster
What separates the Adamson Lady Falcons from the competition aside from its winning tradition is the smooth transition of graduating and debuting players, it is no secret that the Santiago-led team is a melting pot of high ADAMSON SOFT/P7
TheAdamsonChronicle •VolumeXIII No.3
Page 7 • Sport Feature
ADAMSON SOFT/P6 (runs batted in), Most Homerun Award (3) and Most Stolen Bases tied with her teammate Angelu Gabriel (6), Arlyn Bautista and Jeanette Rusia who will lead the pack in surging for a decade-long of domination.
RARE FEAT. Adamson University Softball Team coach Ana Maria Santiago shares her insights on the upcoming tournaments for season 82, aiming to get their 10-peat, during an interview. PHOTO BY SER CHRISTIAN ALBERT CAPOQUIAN
caliber players emerging as household names in various professional and international competitions. With players coming in and out for the team, Coach Ana and the rest of the coaching staff are in it for the long haul. Season 82 is one of those seasons where there will be a lot of big shoes to fill as the Finals MVP and two-time Best Pitcher Riflayca Basa, Babyjane Raro and Princess Jurado have all exhausted their playing years. “Lahat ng pitchers ko nawala, so ang magiging pitchers ko ay bago,” stated by Coach Ana. To fill the voids left
by the graduated players, she will parade a new set of pitchers namely, Ezra Jalandoni, Gieselle Villarubia, Alma Tauli, Alaiza Talisik, Cleofe Magsayo who is according to Coach Ana is “one of the hard hitters in the team” and Jojielyn Lim who is a part of the Women’s Baseball Team that made history clinching the bronze medal at the Asian Baseball Championship. The team will also heavily rely on the services of the veterans Arianne Vallestero who was hailed as the last season’s MVP, Best Hitter (.556), Best Slugger (.972), Most RBIs
The Quest to keep the crown Champions will always have targets on their back and for a team to carry this for nine straight years, the word “pressure” is just an understatement knowing that the other teams are eager to be on top and stepping up their games to topple down the brewing dynasty of the Lady Falcons. Having the heart of a champion, the Softball Team befriended pressure using it to their advantage and look what it has given to them, gold medals and numerous individual awards. “Every year naman may pressure, ‘pag ikaw ay defending champion, dapat open lang ang mind, basta hardwork at training, ‘wag magpapabaya, kung matalo, better luck next time, kung Manalo, congrats sa amin,” shared by the champion coach.
At the forefront of their journey to remain undisputed is of course, Coach Ana Santiago who was recently recognized as one of the best coaches of the decade by a sports channel. “Sampu kami tapos ako lang ang babae, tapos ‘yung softball hindi kilalang sports, nakaka-overwhelm at masarap sa pakiramdam na kinilala tayo ng media regarding doon.” Given the star-studded line-up, the challenge now will go to the coaching staff on how they will find the perfect combination that will deliver them that elusive 10-peat.
and conditioning coach, rather as the emotional and inspirational buddy who shares the same court and breathes the same air with the rest of the team on a daily basis. Slick has witnessed the nine-peat of the softball team and was a vital cog in the winning tradition of the team. “Kung ilan taon kaming champion, ‘yun ang edad niya, kilala na siya sa softball and every UAAP game nandoon talaga siya (Slick), siya lang ang inaallow na aso sa venue,” expressed by Coach Ana. He is a full-pledged Softball Team member and an Adamsonian as
well having his own ID. Everyone who knows the team believed in the luck radiated by their four-legged buddy and expect more championships to come for Slick is still conditioned to inspire the team. Champions are not formed overnight, streaks are maintained with great might, it takes time to bring home that coveted trophy and it takes courage to embrace a winning mentality. This has made the Adamson Softball the team they are today, a barometer that sports and non-sports enthusiasts will look after.
The Four-legged Softball Member For the team, he means more than the trophies and recognitions, he is the core of the team next to Coach Ana, he has no expiration in UAAP and he is the only member to experience nine championships, check out the lucky charm of the Adamson Softball Team, the fluffy and furry Slick. A male Shih-Tzu owned by Coach Ana, Slick has been around with the team not as a training
LUCKY CHARM. Slick, the nine-year-old shih tzu that has witnessed the 9-peat reign of the softbelles in the UAAP Softball Tournament. PHOTO BY SER CHRISTIAN ALBERT CAPOQUIAN
Rookies’ Spolight: The Future of Adamson WVT By: Aeron Gabriel Pantig and Paul Adrian Hular The Adamson University Lady Falcons are off to a fresh start in UAAP Season 82 after three rugged seasons. As a promising batch of young talents entered the Falcons’ Nest, the San Marcelinovolleybelles are bound to bring change to the team that has not reached the Final Four since 2014. As the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) championship nailed coach Lerma Giron at the helm of the squad, Adamson and Akari management tapped the services of multititled mentor Tai Bundit as assisstant coach to boosts the team’s preparation for the upcoming UAAP season. With a formidable coaching staff, a new system, young bloods possessing huge potentials, and mainstays returning, the future looks bright for the Adamson Lady Falcons. The KMS Standouts 1. Louie RomeroServing as the wind beneath the wings of the Falcons is a 19-year old setter sensation--Louie Romero. A highly-touted recruit with two UAAP schools chasing after her, Louie felt at home in the Falcon’s nest.
“Guest player pa lang ako sa PVL Open Conference, sobrang welcome nila sa akin. Adamson kasi alam kong gagamitin talaga ako,” stated by the rookie. The former Palarong Pambansa Best Setter has already made waves way back in high school showcasing star qualities whenever she puts those volleyball shoes on taking her alma mater to the National Championship of the 2018 Rebisco V-League National Finals. Low-fast deceiving sets, the white bandana wrapped around her head and the high volleyball IQ of this prodigal setter, volleyball savvies has seen Romero’s resemblance of that of Jia Morado who turns out to be her biggest influence in the sport. Romero’ training under Coach Tai Bundit and Lerma Giron plus the experience from the Thailand training camp will be vital in taking the baton in orchestrating the arsenal of the Lady Falcons this UAAP season. 2. Rizza Cruz- Rizza Cruz was also a reinforcement for Adamson in the 2017 Premier Volleyball League Open Conference. And just like Romero, the middle blocker immediately found
home in the Falcons’ Nest. As Joy Dacoron and Lea Anne Perez have exhausted their final year of eligibility, Cruz has a huge void to fill in. Yet, the rookie skipper showed that she is capable to play beyond her years and has impressed former Lady Falcons’ head coach Airess Padda. Cruz is also one of the remarkable cogs that paved way for Adamson’s successful stint in last year’s PVL Collegiate Conference. After a triumphant PVL run, it is beyond question that the Lady Falcons may have been gunning for the UAAP title. But for Cruz, the road to championship should be a one game at time process. “Ang goal ko lang talaga
as a player is to win every game na lalaruan ko kasi every game na yun, yun yung step mo papunta sa taas,” Cruz shared. “Step by step, wag muna mag s-skip kasi baka pag nag skip ka is madapa ka sa isa tas mahirapan ka na bumangon,” the rookie added. 3. Cae Lazo- Cae Lazo may have not made it to the final cut of the lineup but the pint-sized libero has already shown during the PVL tournament how steady she is as the team’s defense anchor. During the absence of Adamson’s veteran libero Thang Ponce in the said tournament, Lazo displayed a combined 44 excellent digs
A WINNER’S GRIN. Lady Falcon’s rookie sensation Louie Romero reveals her experiences of being in the Falcon’s Nest. PHOTO BY SER CHRISTIAN ALBERT CAPOQUIAN
in the Finals series against a more exprerienced UST Golden Tigresses. As Ponce will be playing her last year of eligibility, Lazo will surely be gearing up as the next anchor of the Lady Falcons’ renowned floor defense. 4. Lucille AlmonteThe other half of the Lady Falcons’ one-two punch along with the PVL Collegiate Conference MVP Trisha Genesis. This crafty 5’8 winger from Davao City provided the scoring duties whenever Genesis rotates to man the floor defense. Aside from her crafty hits on the net and clutch plays, Lucille is not just only a one-trick pony as she can also be a reliable defender at the back court. In fact, she finished the off-season tournament as one of the few non-libero players in the best digger and best receiver category averaging 3.56 digs per set and 32% efficiency respectively of the said conference. Lorene Toring: Blue and White Loyalty A new tower is set to rise after the departure of the veteran middle blocker Joy Dacoron. Taking a leap of faith from her hometown in Cebu, Lorene Toring
decided to bring her talent in San Marcelino to become one of the vital pieces in the revamped Lady Falcons. Donning the same color and school in the seniors’ division, the six-foot skipper will take charge in manning the net against the hard hitters of other teams. Minted as the Best Middle Blocker averaging 0.63 blocks per set in the PVL Collegiate Conference, Lorene will use this a confidence-booster to stand out from the talented pool of rookies each schools will parade this season to provide the necessarAy scoring support and make her presence felt whenever she hovers the volleyball net. Aside from the names mentioned, other rookies to keep Adamson intact are opposite hitter Antonette Adolfo who also had her limelight last PVL Cup, Martina Aprecio, and Maveth Torres. As the 82nd edition of the premier collegiate league unveils its curtains, the physical and mental toughness of these young guns will be tested; but if there’s one thing to take note of: these talented players are just rookies and they still have plenty of years to improve in the UAAP.
FUTURES OF PH SPORTS. Athletes line up during the opening ceremony of the UAAP Season 82 at Mall of Asia Arena. PHOTO BY JOHN ALVIN TAN
UAAP Board cancels Season 82 due to pandemic threat By: Aeron Gabriel V. Pantig
The University Athletic Associaton of the Philippines (UAAP) Board has decided to scap the remainder of Season 82, following the extension of the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) threat. In a statement prepared by UAAP president Emmanuel Fernandez
released last April 7, the UAAP declared the cancellation of remaining second semester sporting events for the safety and welfare of student-athletes, coaches, officials and fans. The tournament was already suspended twice last February 15 and March 17 after President Rodrigo Roa Duterte declared a State of Public Health Emergency
because of the increasing cases of COVID-19 in the country. Resumption of collegiate events under alternative formats of competition were supposed to begin no earlier than May 1, 2020. UAAP collegiate events that stopped were volleyball and football. Baseball, softball, athletics, lawn
tennis, and 3×3 basketball never had a game day this season. Before the cancellation of Season 82, the Adamson Men’s and Women’s Volleyball were defeated by the National University while the Men’s Football Team has already a 0-2 record. Adamson Lady Falcons rookie team captain Louie
Romero, who is one of the anticipated players by the UAAP community shared how she felt upon hearing the heartbreaking news. “Nalungkot po kasi yun nga po matagal kaming nag hintay for season 82 and yung hirap namin sa training gusto namin makita yung magiging result. Everything happens for a reason. Siguro ayun yung plan ni God
para magsumikap at mag training pa kami ng mabuti. At ngayon mas iisipin mo na lang yung health ng bawat isa para sa ikabubuti ng lahat,” Romero said. For issues such as the awarding of the UAAP general championship and the eligibility dilemma for senior athletes, the UAAP has decided to deliberate on them for a later date.
SPORTS FEATURE • PAGE 6
SPORTS FEATURE • PAGE 7
Adamson Softball Team: The makings of a champion and the charm behind the winning tradition
Rookies’ Spolight: The Future of Adamson WVT
MODESTY BEHIND MEDALS. Adamson Softball Team veterans Jenette Rusia humbly express their perceptions for the upcoming 30th Sea Games in an interview. PHOTO BY SER CHRISTIAN ALBERT CAPOQUIAN
QUEEN FALCON IN THE MAKING. Rookie setter Louie Romero celebrates victory in PVL Collegiate Conference at the Filoil Flying V Centre, San Juan. PHOTO BY ALECKINE TROY RADA
Science and Technology
Stay-at-home Learning: Dilemmas and Edge >> Page 3
COVID-19 TESTING: How does it work? By: Keith Joseph Dizon
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midst the current coronavirus pandemic, scientists from around the world are scouring for a medical breakthrough to produce a cure against the incredibly viral and life-threatening disease. As people wait for the end of the surging disease, quarantine protocols are established for most locales to prevent the further spread of the virus. But, due to the asymptomatic nature of COVID-19 positive persons, the number of the infected is still growing at an exponential rate and has claimed countless lives. A crucial element in
handling the continuously spreading virus is through testing. An example of this is Vietnam. According to the U.S. Center for Strategic & International Studies, the country has conducted 133,000 tests with only 268 infected and no reported deaths. Multiple proactive testings can quickly determine and isolate any person of interest and can assist in patient data analysis. And to provide further information, here are the things you have to know on how a COVID-19 test works. Available Testing Methods
There are two common testing methods available. The fastest to develop is the RT-PCR test, short for Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reactio. This testing technique requires a sample of a person’s nasopharyngeal secretions (oral or nasal) which is collected using a cotton swab. The sample will be placed in a vial containing a reagent that will react to the virus. Depending on how many SARS-CoV-2 viruses are present, it can take from minutes to days to properly determine whether a person carries the virus. If the test
is unable to detect the virus after a predetermined time, the test is then considered negative. Immunoglobin detection tests are the second SARS-CoV-2 testing method. Using the blood/ plasma droplets of a person, it is sampled in a container holding a SARS-CoV-2 antigen, which will then react to the blood droplet’s IgG and/or IgM. IgG (Immunoglobin G) is found in all forms of body fluids and is the most abundant type of antibody. IgM (Immunoglobin M), on the other hand, is only found in the blood and lymph fluids. IgM antibodies are the first to react to a detected infection. The test works similar to a pregnancy test, where up to three detection lines will appear depending on the result of the test. A negative test will result in a single line. This line (third line) should always appear, signifying that the test is properly functioning. Positive tests have three varying results: IgG line only, IgM line only, or both IgG and IgM lines appear. This means that the blood has already formed antigens to counter the detected SARS-CoV-2 virus. But unlike the RT-PCR test, a positive immunoglobin test only indicates that a person was exposed to the SARS-
CoV-2 virus in the past and can not determine whether the person is currently infected. What testing method is better? The RT-PCR tests give the most necessary information and are more specific. Although, it is not possible to perform the test at home. It requires a laboratory to properly screen and identify the results, a process that can take several hours. On the other hand, immunoglobin tests, which are also called rapid antibody tests, are easier to perform and will only take a few minutes. However, the
test’s inability to ascertain an ongoing infection makes it only useful in a screening scenario. It is better to have the tests in tandem to produce a more detailed result. But in the problem of availability, neither of the options should take priority and you should take whatever test is available. As of April 24, the Food and Drug Administration of the Philippines has approved the use of 24 rapid antibody tests and 33 RT-PCR testing kits, including the UPdeveloped GenAmplify™ testing kit. With a total of 57 testing kit variants and many more in development, this would hopefully be the
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
Page 2 • Sciennce and Technology
Job Description: Bees as Pollutant Detector By: Nina Pia M. Boco
“B
usy as a bee.” This may be a phrase that most of us use on a day-to-day basis to emphasize a hectic or loaded schedule. This metaphor is derived from how hard working bees are in helping pollinate plants and flowers for them to reproduce and multiply. At the same time, they collect nectar from these flowers in order to make honey that is a vital ingredient
for the morning coffees and other things that need to be sweet. But, nowadays, aside from making these honeys, they have apparently gained another title to their job description. In a recent study of the University of British Columbia, they have found out that the honeys these bees reproduce can help measure environmental pollution. In this study, they gathered
samples of honey from different areas of Vancouver, from the agricultural areas until the center of Vancouver to which they tested for different elements such as lead, zinc, copper and others. Apparently, when the bees hunt for pollens and nectars, they also pick up traces of different elements such as lead that could be of measurement for environmental pollution as per the result of their study.
According to Kate E. Smith, study lead of the UBC Pacific Centre for Isotopic and Geochemical Research (PCIGR) for this study, “We also found that the concentration of elements increased the closer you got to downtown Vancouver, and by fingerprinting the lead, we can tell it largely comes from manmade sources.” The study also showed that the heavier the traffic
and industrial activity is in a place, the larger the concentration of the amount of lead was found in the honeys. No worries about these leads that are picked up by the bees though, as “the experts found that the honey collected in Metro Vancouver was well below the worldwide average for heavy metals like lead” according to an earth.com article by Chrissy Sexton.
She also explained that an average adult would have to consume more than two cups of honey every day to make the lead content fatal. Bees have always been exceptionally hard working, but now, they have also become a way to help in detecting and measuring the long and hard-fought battle against environmental pollutants. Busy bees just got busier.
The Rise of Hypersonic Arms: Here’s How They Work By: Jeleen Milca
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he necessity to have any form of speed in war is understood in the art of combat. In war, it is always important to see who gets the upper hand. And in order to gain advantage in combat, one must have the advantage of speed to counter and even emerge victorious from any possible threat to his territory. As time progresses, scientific advancements have been used to modify weapons. Different countries have their strategies in improving military prowess and for this reason, the race for who gets the deadliest weapons began. Such is the pursuit to produce hypersonic weapons. The
main countries who seem to be at play in amplifying weapons’ speed are China, Russia and the United States of America. These superpowers are known to be pioneers in creating weapons for strategic purposes and defense systems. What are Hypersonic weapons? Hypersonic weapons can move five times the speed of sound. It can reach targeted distances in minutes. Moreover, if a weapon possesses the capacity of hypersonic flight it can fly through the atmosphere for about 90 km
at speeds surpassing Mach 5. To expound, Mach 5 is the quantity of velocity that transcends the speed of sound. Other qualities of hypersonic weapons that interest China, Russia and the U.S. are its maneuverability and missile defense in regards to being hypersonic. Because of the distinct innovation brought by hypersonics, traditional nuclear missiles are put to shame. Hypersonic missiles are fired in two ways. One way of firing can be done at the last stages of Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles or THE RISE/ P4
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
Science and Technology • Page 3
Stay-at-home Learning: Dilemmas and Edge By: Christian Joshua Corcuera
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ith the coronavirus disease or COVID-19 spreading as fast as wildfire around the world, countries responded to contain its further spread. In the Philippines, the government imposed a de facto lockdown in Luzon, or as President Duterte euphemistically termed as Enhanced Community Quarantine. As a consequence, movements are largely restricted with classes suspended. At Adamson, the second semester will conclude without further on-campus, face-to-face
meetings after April 30, 2020. This caused Adamsonians to comply with course requirements using E-learning, thus utilizing gadgets such as mobile phones, computers, and laptops to do so. Online learning is helpful in a way that professors send necessary academic activities to their students. For instance, students can still familiarize certain topics integral to their degree programs as they are forced to stay home in the middle of the ongoing pandemic. This allows students to learn or at
least retain what they have learned while ensuring their safety. According to a paper from North Carolina State University (NCSU), online education is also advantageous compared to face-to-face classes since it is less expensive. Students do not need to travel to their school allowing them to save money since they do not incur transportation expenses. Convenience is another advantage mentioned in the paper since there is no constraint in geographic location, nor is there a need to commute anymore. However, challenges
are present as well if schools have to shift to online classes. Technology cost is one disadvantage mentioned by NCSU in its study. In the Philippines, impoverished students cannot afford the cost of high-speed internet and even gadgets necessary to conduct online classes. More importantly, it exposes inequality in learning with wealthy students able to comply with requirements online and financially challenged students incapable of doing the same. Another disadvantage mentioned is limited social
interaction since most of the communication will be done through e-mail, chat room, or discussion groups. Moreover, online learning lacks a campus atmosphere to create social interaction. Online classes also seem to be problematic for instructors, the paper noted. With technology getting much more advanced, educators are constantly trying to keep up to teach effectively online. With some teachers struggling to use technology for teaching purposes, their students fail to receive the necessary activities they need to learn. Altogether, technology continues to benefit society as a whole in various ways, including education. In the past, thick books usually served as the only material available for learning for
students. Today, however, technology allows students to have various learning materials from scholarly articles to educational videos. With additional resources available for learning, technology certainly helps students to have more ways to learn academically. Hence, learning how to use technology for useful purposes such as teaching and learning is important. Despite this, there is a need to take note that the socio-economic status of students may prohibit them from affording internet or gadgets such as laptops or mobile phones needed for online classes. Education, whether conducted online or the traditional way, must be a right for all and not a mere privilege for the few.
cost as low as P13,000, or as high as P80,000 depending on the brand and quality. So how does the Olive Smart Ear’s price compare to the usuals? Believe it or not, the Smart Ear only costs P15,114 (299 USD), which is more to the cheaper end of available hearing aids. With a plethora of features and its stylish accessibility, the Olive Union Smart Ear might be the most cost-effective and advanced hearing aid available in the market today. Thousands upon thousands of other new techs were rolled out on the
grounds of CES 2020, but unlike previous years, most of the presented devices and systems were aimed at maximizing the capacity of modern technology instead of new, inventive steps or breakthroughs. Still, the jump in technological complexity was noticeable, especially in the continuous application of trends like the Internet of Things (IoT). Surely, the improvement of technology will go leaps and bounds in the near future, and far more advanced than what we thought possible.
Trending Technology: CES 2020 By: Keith Joseph Dizon
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rom smartphones to showerheads, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, Nevada displayed the newest innovations and polarizing ideas in electronics today. The annual event showcases products from more than 4,500 companies competing in the global electronics market. People from around the world watched in awe as they witnessed another step taken in the advancement of consumer technology. And to begin the review, here are some of the best and most interesting tech presented in the 2020 Consumer Electronics Show. Hydraloop Hydraloop is a water recycling home system that offers smart features, is selfcleaning, and has a sleek and compact design. It collects used freshwater from shower or bathtub drainages, cleans it through six cleansing technologies; sedimentation, flotation, dissolved Air
flotation, foam fractionation, an aerobic bioreactor; and then disinfecting it through UV lighting, and then reallocates it to other waterbased equipment such as toilets, recycling up to 85 percent of used water. Though the price is not consumerfriendly, looming at an intimidating P203,800 (4000 USD), it has the potential to be a good long-term investment, especially in large-scale uses. Razer Kishi Smartphone gaming could very well be argued to be at the top of the gaming community today. PC and classic console games such as Call of Duty and League of Legends are now being ported for smartphone compatibility due to its incomparable accessibility. Although, having to play these games with only touch controls can be a task, especially when compared to a mouse and keyboard or a gamepad. But do not fret, the Razer Kishi is a smartphone controller cradle
inspired by the Nintendo Switch controller design. It features a USB-C (Type C Port) connection for low latency inputs and the usual two analog sticks, directional pad, four-button input, and four shoulder buttons that can be mapped to your liking. A price is yet to be listed for the Razer Kishi, but developers have hinted that it will be around the same price as a Razer Junglecat, which has a retail price of P5,082. Sony Vision-S Concept Car When it comes to automotive technology, Sony is the last company that comes to mind. Yet Sony presented the CES stage with its Vision-S prototype concept car. The Vision-S targets the maximum capability of safety, entertainment, and adaptability in a smart vehicle. Equipped with 33 sensors, it monitors all directions of the vehicle exterior, as well as the passengers’. The Vision-S will not be seen on the road anytime soon, but Sony has
shown their dedication in being one of the pioneers of the future of smart vehicles. Olive Union Smart Ear The Olive Union Smart Ear is your next-generation hearing aid. With a subtle and miniature design, the Smart Ear looks just like another wireless earbud, making it less intimidating than traditional hearing aids. It features a single earbud that you can connect to your smartphone through Bluetooth connectivity. Olive has created an app that personalizes the user’s hearing preference through a quick auditory test. Apart from the hearing assistance, the Smart Ear can also be used for call handling and listening to music. Although rechargeable, the Smart Ear can only accommodate 12 hours of use with a 10-day standby battery life. And in the Philippines, usual work hours can go beyond 12 hours, including travel time. Ordinary hearing aids can
Page 4 • Science and Technology
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
On why we need to save the Earth now By: Christian Joshua Corcuera
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or the past few months, bushfires in Australia have burned 112,000 square kilometers of land roughly the same size as Luzon according to Reuters. Beyond doubt, these fires have a profound impact on the country’s flora and fauna. For instance, in a study of the University of Sydney, the fires caused the demise of almost half a billion animals. Furthermore, the fires also destroyed over a thousand homes and claimed at least 20 lives. The Australian fires, however, is not an isolated incident. Sadly, natural disasters, especially wildfires, have become common all over the world recently. In 2018, California saw its deadliest and most destructive wildfire season with US$ 3.5 billion (Php 178.38 billion) in damages, over 7,000 square kilometers of land razed, and roughly a hundred people dead. Last year, Amazon - the world’s largest rainforest - was not spared from disastrous wildfires as well. These devastating events did not occur by chance but because of record-breaking heat, drought, and human activities such as intentional arson. Research from the University of California - Berkeley published in August 2018 predicted more wildfires in the future as a result of climate change. One can observe climate change through global warming, a long-term rise in the Earth’s average temperature. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), 97% or more of climate scientists agree that climate-warming trends over the past century are extremely likely due to
THE RISE/ P2 Submarine Launched Ballistic Missiles. Second is that they can be fired independently or launched from a bomber. The primary charm of hypersonic missiles is the ability to move at extreme high velocity, that is why the arms race is as progressive as it gets. Lastly, the ability to maneuver in flight allows them to avoid interceptors and missile defense trackers. The Global Arms Race I. Russia Russia has announced last December 2019 that it has successfully installed its first nuclear capable missile system named Avangard HGV. After a series of successful flight tests from 2015 to 2016, Avangard
human activities. These activities include releasing substantial amounts of greenhouse gases coming from petroleum-based cars and vehicles, coal power plants, and factories, to name a few. Consequently, climate change impacted society in numerous devastating ways, from stronger storms to more frequent wildfires around the world. Such
negative impacts result in a psychological response called ecological grief, causing people from all walks of life to experience a sense of profound loss. If humans caused these disasters, then humans can also solve such problems. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) specified simple ways for people to save our planet from demise.
These include: Being informed of environmental issues, using your voice to encourage action, traveling responsibly, and reducing waste. Even though such actions appear to be small, its consequences to the environment are huge, WWF added. NASA also gave a message of hope that it may not be too late to avoid or limit some
of the worst effects of climate change. However, it is important to remember that time is running out, and action must be taken immediately. A report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released in 2018 implied that we have 12 years left to limit global warming to moderate levels. If we remain
unconcerned of this crisis of our times, then we are going to meet a fate that none of us wants. Not only for today’s generation but for the future generations to come. Hence, there is a need for us to mitigate climate change to prevent more disastrous events from occurring, and we must start saving our only home now before it is too late.
has been pronounced to be a functional hypersonic missile in 2018. And on December 27, 2019 has officially entered Russian military service. According to Russian officials, Avangard is “invulnerable to any missile defence systems,” which gained disbelief from an American expert in nuclear proliferation and geopolitics, Jeffrey Lewis. When approaching a target, Avangard has the ability of high speed horizontal and vertical maneuvers in flight. The main reason in the creation of this weapon is solely for Russia’s response to the ballistic missile of US defenses. It is reported that it has the speed of Mach 20-27.
weapons since 2014. They have been producing their own hypersonic advancements. A hypersonic glide vehicle named DZ-ZF has gone through a dozen development tests from 2014 to 2016. Like any other mechanic of firing hyper-glide vehicle, DZ-ZF is fired from the last stage of the missile. It is said to have reached just about 7,500 mph which is equivalent to Mach 10. In addition, it is also believed to have the ability to lock on and attack ships at sea. Like Russia, China also claims that DZ-ZF can navigate in evading missile defenses and focus on a target precisely. Alongside DZ-ZF, is the DF-17. A ballistic missile combined with a hypersonic vehicle. This missile has undergone two tests in November 2017. The approximate speed of the
weapon is reported to be at 1,110 to 1,500 miles that can get to Mach 10 without losing its ability to maneuver in flight. DZ-ZF and DF-17 are expected to be fully functional by 2020.
capabilities. Adding to the United States war arsenal is the developing hypersonic vehicle named Falcon Hypersonic Technology Vehicle 2 (HTV2). This rocket-launched aircraft that can freewheel around the Earth’s atmosphere is believed to have the speed of Mach 20 (13,000 mph). HTV2 is equipped with sensors
that accumulate data while in hypersonic flight. The US is planning to use the AHW and HTV-2 for their military effort to deliver a precisionguided conventional weapon hypersonic airstrike called “Prompt Global Strike” against possible targets on Earth in less than one hour.
II. China China is also set in the running for hypersonic
III.
United States The US has devoted its time in the development and research of the Advanced Hypersonic Weapon (AHW). This hypersonic missile uses boost glide technology to drive warheads with regular payloads. In 2011, AHW was fired from the Pacific Range Facility in Kauai, Hawauum to the Raegan Test Site located on the Marshall Islands. The result of the firing test was successful with AWH precisely striking its target that was located 3,700 km away. With the test successful- the US has established the high precision and long range
Human Interest
Contemporary Beauty Standards are Temporary >> Page 2
The face mask shortage, an influx of fear By Jeleen Milca
Photo by: Jake Danielle Demafelix
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ace masks have played an important role in terms of securing one’s health. They come in different types- surgical masks, respirator masks and reusable respirator masks. In the medical field, medical personnel wear surgical masks in order to avoid catching diseases from people who they help. In addition, the public are encouraged to wear face masks to protect themselves from possible threats to their health such as diseases and flu that they might encounter in their daily lives. In the Philippines, it is noticeable that some Filipinos wear surgical masks as an attempt to shield themselves from sickness. This year, the month of January has presented itself
to the country with a couple of unpleasant events that caused the shortage of face masks and the surfacing of controversies regarding the reported price hike. The Taal Volcano Eruption On January 12, the Taal volcano eruption occurred. The volcano spewed ashes that reached parts of Calabarzon, parts of Central Luzon and Metro Manila. With the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) issuing an Alert Level 4, it was definitely leading to a massive hazardous explosion. To counter the hazardous and risks of the ash-fall, classes were suspended to the areas affected. With the scare of a bigger explosive activity of
the volcano, people panicked and rushed to drug stores and local pharmacies; hoarding face masks. This resulted in a flood of complaints from netizens as resellers sold the masks at a much higher price . The alleged overpricing was soon confirmed when the DTI found 12 stores in Manila selling over priced N95 masks. DTI was quick to press charges on those caught. In addition, the office of Manila ViceMayor Honey Lacuna Pangan received reports of overpricing for N95 masks that were priced for Php 200 from its usual cost of Php 30. With this, the ViceMayor asked for investigations and released a statement reminding the public to not take advantage of the unpleasant situation
brought by the ash-fall. Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Outbreak After the ashfall brought by Taal’s massive phreatic eruption, another dilemma faces the Philippines. This time, it isn’t felt on a national scale or a natural disaster anymore but a global health emergency. The Coronavirus Disease 2019 outbreak has been affecting all parts of the world, including the Philippines. Originating from Wuhan, China, the virus is reported to spread from person to person with an incubation period of 2 weeks. As of writing, the number of confirmed cases around the globe is almost at 3 million cases and 200,000 deaths.
With the Philippines’ first confirmed case on January 30, 2020- the public are once again advised to take caution and measures to avoid being affected by the virus. The reminders included practicing good respiratory hygiene, frequent hand-washing, and avoiding touching the nose, mouth, and eyes. With the virus reaching the country now, the public once again see the necessity to have face masks as shields to protect themselves. Sparking another shortage fiasco in the country. Following the first case of novel coronavirus in the country, supplies of face masks in the country ran out- just like the Taal ash-fall fiasco. And on February 1, 2020- 5
Chinese businessmen have been arrested by the Manila Police District due to the overpriced selling of face masks once again. Jacking up face masks’ price is punishable by law, under the Philippine Consumers Act- resellers that are caught selling overpriced masks can be fined 10,000 pesos and can be imprisoned for one year. Now that face masks are needed more than ever, the government should get face masks suppliers’ commitment. Laws should be imposed strictly, and regulation of the distribution of face masks must be done. One should not take advantage of the situation by selling necessities at a higher price for personal profit.
Is World War III about to happen? By Verity Banogbanog
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fter the assassination of Iranian Major General Qasem Soleimani last January 3, “World War III” was trending on social media and the interest of possibility spiked to the point that US Selective Service System, a government website responsible for future military draft, shut down. Many were terrified that the killing would trigger a conflict leading to a Third World War. Considering the threats between the military forces of the United States and Iran that is possible to escalate to a war, is World War III imminent? According to Dennis Coronacion, a Filipino political analyst and
international relations expert, World War III is unlikely to happen right now. There is an uneven power relationship between Iran and the U.S. The land, sea, and air power of the U.S military is unmatched while it remains superior in terms of nuclear weapons, also possessing the most advanced military technology. Iran holds a regional power. Several operations of insurgent groups in the Middle Eastern region have been funded by the country, advancing regional cause or national interest. Also, because of its huge deposits of oil, a serious combat against the U.S would be
critical. Coronacion also stated in his article that Iran will not stand a chance even if it is combined with the military strengths of China and Russia, still being insipid with that of America. The most powerful country will avoid pursuing an engulfing war, too. They know that waging a war and occupying territories will cost them a gargantuan amount of money- and people. The U.S had an estimated total amount of $1 trillion and 50,000 casualties in the Iraq war alone. It may not be difficult for them to destroy authoritarian regimes but they will most probably have a hard time replacing them, preventing another conundrum of state-
building. Also, the U.S.As’ Western allies and the United Nations may possibly not give any support over its military actions on Iran. Conditions that surround the tension between the U.S and Iran manifest that the benefits reestablishing peace far outweigh the gains of waging war, as Coronacion concluded it. Even the political expert from the University of Wisconsin-Madison Andrew Kydd had an agreeing thought in his interview from a local television station WMTV that even a conventional war would not rise to a level of World War III. He also supplemented that a draft is implausible.
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
Page 2 • Human Interest
Contemporary Beauty Standards are Temporary By Nina Pia Boco
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eau·ty /ˈbyo͞odē/ noun. Definition: a combination of qualities, such as shape, color, or form that pleases the aesthetic senses, especially the sight. Beauty standards have always been a thing. People tend to set certain criteria and ideals as to how a woman should look. From the shape of their body, color of their skin, how they do their make-up or even the way they talk and walk. In a survey conducted by Dove in different cities around the world, 96 percent of the interviewed women say they can’t describe themselves as ‘beautiful’. The standards today of what’s “beautiful” have held many women chained into not loving themselves. What most women don’t realize is that these beauty standards that are chaining them into not being happy about the way they look and feel about themselves, are temporary. Over the years, these beauty standards have drastically changed and over the course of the next years, will continue to change. What may be perceived as beautiful today may not be so beautiful for the next generations to come or could not matter at all. Loving and
accepting and making your own standard of beauty is what’s beautiful. During the Italian Renaissance around circa 1400-1700, what was perceived as beautiful for women are those with ample bosom, rounder stomach, and fuller hips. In the Victorian Era circa 1837-1901, the standard then changed into the hourglass shape. The cincher the corsets on the waists are, the prettier it was perceived. And then comes the 1920s. During this time, women with smaller chests were perceived to be more beautiful than those who were blessed with bigger boobs. Then comes the Golden Age of Hollywood from 1930s-1950s. During this time, curves, butts, hips and bigger boobs were reintroduced, the hourglass shape came back. The most notable figure for this beauty standard is the Golden Girl of Hollywood, Marilyn Monroe. However, in the 1960s, this changed again into thin, slim and long legged girls. And then changed again during the 1980s into a more athletic, tall and curvier stature. 1990s came around and changed it to a super skinny looking and tall standard of beauty until the postmodern era of the 2000s.
Today what’s perceived as beautiful is having a flat stomach, larger breasts and butts, and surprisingly thigh gap, to help you picture it better, think Kim Kardashian. Even the definition of beauty doesn’t entail how it should be like, what form it should take on and all those other things that the society dictates nowadays. It’s all dependent on what a person sees and perceives. At the end of the day, what you see in front of the mirror is what’s important. Not what you hear when you walk out on the street, or what you see in the magazine. It’s in the outlook and your perception of your own beauty. See, beauty standards are set by humans. You, as a human being too, can change that and have your own. Beautiful isn’t meant to just have one shape, color, or form. It’s meant to be anything you want it to be just like how these beauty standards have been created by the past generations and eras. No need to conform to these ever changing things. Just like what Martha Beck said, “Standards of beauty are arbitrary. Body shame exists only to the extent that our physiques don’t match our own beliefs about how we should look.”
Nico Mercado: An unanticipated nat’l student leadership By Verity Banogbanog president,” he said. Given that Mercado was already an exceptional student in his class, he was also elected as the president of their student council during his 6th grade. As he stepped into high school, the responsibility of being a student leader never left. During his freshman year, he was elected as the vice president of his class up to becoming the president of their campus’ student council in his senior year in Paranaque Science High School. However, challenges were laid upon him before he had a clinch of his leadership career.
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hen asked about the word ‘leadership’, one may think about something that helps a state or organization become organized or more progressed. A leader influences his people in order for them to endeavor with willingness and
Photo by: Yeddha Marie Pascual enthusiasm when it comes to achieving certain objectives while maintaining a good social relationship with his subordinates, and being a student leader prepares an individual to his corporate relations. These features are only a few of many towards
becoming an effective leader, nonetheless, Nicole Jean Mercado, a student leader of 14 years, is not new to such responsibility. Starting point of leadership Before being branded to more than one national student leaders
organization, his leadership journey began when he was still in elementary, starting from the four corners of their classroom. “Nagsusulat ako ng mga noisy (students) before hanggang sa na formalize yun… nung grade 4 or grade 5 nag simula na akong maging classroom
Ensuing challenge Mercado entered seminary as his first choice. He was among other seminarians who reached out to impoverished people in their relocation sites however, decided to leave the missionary life after two years to transfer to another college program hoping he could help his family over their financial needs after he would graduate. Yet, things were not easy as they were
supposed to be for the young man because studying for college was a luxury they cannot afford. “May mga taong gusto tumulong pero yung, kumbaga sobrang mahal ng tuition fee parang hindi rin namin kaya. Hindi ko din binalak mag State U (university) kasi kahit yung everyday allowance ko hindi parin kaya ng family ko,” the lad shared. In order to save money, he worked on a business process outsourcing company as a call center agent for nine months, until one day – “gusto ko nang mag-aral ulit,” as he put it in his words, spontaneously stamped on his head. With the help of his friend who gave him the idea that he could acquire a scholarship in Adamson University as a student assistant, he applied before the academic year of 2015 had begun yet failed the first attempt. Watershed of a return Despite the burdens he carried in pursuing his NICO MERCADO/P4
Human Interest • Page 3
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
ANGKASangga sa buhay commuter By Gabriel Tongco
Angkas (bilang commuter at biker) pa rin ang nanawagan at nag-protesta para panatilihin ito: bilang resulta, nag-trend sa internet ang #SaveAngkas noong Disyembre 21. At kapag binuksan ang hashtag sa Facebook at Twitter, maraming mga istorya ang mga commuter tungkol sa magagandang mga karanasan sa paggamit nito, para subukang kunin ang simpatya ng masa hindi lamang para sa sarili nilang mga interes, kundi para rin sa trabaho at pamilya ng mga bikers.
Photos by: John Alvin Tan
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sa sa ikinalulungkot ng maraming mga commuters ay ang patapos na pagpapatakbo ng mga “motorcycle taxi” ngayong ika-23 ng Marso. Sa katunayan, noong ika26 pa ng Disyembre noong nakaraang taon pa dapat ipatitigil ng Technical Working Group (TWG) ang pilot run ng mga ito, inextend lang talaga: ang kaso, ay mula sa 27,000 na bikers ng Angkas, bababa ito sa 10,000 (sa
Metro Manila, at 3,000 sa Metro Cebu). Dahil ito sa pagbibigay limitasyon ng TWG sa dami ng mga riders, at para na rin daw sa ibang motorcycle taxis gaya ng Joyride at MoveIt na makapasok sa kumpetisyon at labanan ang “monopolya” ng Angkas. Angkas laban sa batas Nakasaad sa Republic Act No. 4316 (“An Act To Compile The Laws Relative To Land
Transportation And Traffic Rules, To Create A Land Transportation Commission And For Other Purposes”), mayroon lamang dalawang klase ng mga motorsiklo: pribado at mga gamit ng gobyerno. Kaya’t simula pa lang, malaking tulong man ang Angkas sa krisis ng transportasyon sa bansa, ilegal na talaga ang pagpapasakay sa mga motorsiklo para kumita. Ang pilot run na isinagawa ay para maging basehan ng
mga mambabatas sa kung gagawin nang legal ang mga motorcycle taxi; at ayon sa chairman ng TWG na si Antonio Gardiola Jr. sa isang pakikipanayam ng Rappler, “sapat” na ang hanggang Marso para makakuha ng mga resulta. Kung may mga Angkas biker man na makikita pang babiyahe ulit pagtapos nito ay nasa kamay na ng mga mambabatas. Sa kabila nito, libolibong mga gumagamit ng
Ang relasyon ng Angkas sa mga commuter Ayon sa isang pag-aaral ng isang “GPS navigation” app na “Waze” gamit ang impormasyon mula sa mga gumagamit nito sa bansa, ang commute sa Metro Manila ay ang pinakamabagal sa Asya mula pa noong 2018: kinakailangan daw ng humigit-kumulang limang minuto bawat isang kilometro bago makausad ang isang sasakyan. Hindi na nakakagulat na maraming mga kwento ang commuters tungkol sa kung paano sila iniligtas ng Angkas mula sa matinding trapiko, dahil ang mga motorsiklo ay nakakasingit sa masisikip na daanan. Ang naging sandata ng mga nag-protesta laban sa pagpapatigil sa operasyon ng Angkas
ay ang pagpapaalala ng mga sitwasyon kung saan tumulong ang mga bikers sa masa: ang libreng mga sakay sa mga pasahero ng LRT-2 noong Oktubre 2019 nang isara ang ilang mga estasyon nito, ang #AlagangAngkas noong Enero kung saan ang mga bikers ay nag-drive sa mga probinsya para magbigay ng mga donasyon sa biktima ng pagsabog ng Taal, libreng sakay ulit noong nagdaang Sinulog Festival sa Cebu, at marami pang mga sitwasyon kung saan ang commuters ay nakaabot sa importanteng mga okasyon. Dahil dito, mula sa pagiging late sa klase o trabaho hanggang sa mga flight sa airport. May maitutulong ba tayo? Bukod sa maging boses ng mga Angkas bikers sa social media at patuloy na pagsuporta sa mga bikers nito, hawak na ng mga mambabatas ang haharapin ng Angkas pagtapos ng pilot run. Sa katunayan, bukod sa mga kaligtasan ay mas malaking problema talaga para sa kanila ang pagiging ilegal sa mata ng batas ng bansa. Ang sagot tungkol sa magiging kinabukasan ng matagal-tagal nang inaasahan ng marami ay nalalapit na. Bilang isa sa mga gumagamit din nito, umaasa akong maging mabuti ang kalalabasan ng pag-aaral tungkol dito.
Human Interest • Page 4
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
The cost to save humanity is apparently 10 dollars
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By: Gabriel Tongco
he city that never sleeps is New York, and the face that launched a thousand ships is Helen of Troy. The boy who lived is Harry Potter and the man behind the suit of armor is Tony Stark. But the body that helped with recovering from the Australian bush fires? That would be Kaylen Ward, or as more people know from her Twitter display name, “The Naked Philanthropist.” Last January 3, 2020, Ward tweeted “I’m sending nudes to every person who donates at least $10 to any one of these fundraisers for the wildfires in Australia. Every $10 you donate = one nude picture from me to your DM. “You must send me confirmation that you donated.” With only a 1,000 USD goal in mind, she was able to raise an estimated amount of more than a million dollars. After a couple of days, her tweet was able to garner more than 94,000 retweets and 230,000 likes. It was no surprise that the general audience of Twitter applauded the idea that it was a sex worker who had the kind of will to do such. The Los Angelesbased influencer slash model even received replies such as “Sex workers are singlehandedly saving Australia
and I am here for it” and “How do I nominate you for woman of the year?” After receiving a flood of online traffic, Kaylen Ward explicitly expressed that she was disowned by her family and ghosted by a guy she liked because of her means of raising funds for the Australian tragedy’s relief operations, but, as I’d like to quote what she said, “F**k it. Save the koalas.” After that statement, the online community tipped their hats once more to the 20-year-old fund-raising sensation, asserting that it was about time sex workers get the respect they needed along with many other shreds of feminist philosophy. Don’t get me wrong, it really was worth the applause, especially given the results. Who else has managed to raise more than a million dollars within days just through sending photos on Twitter DMs? But whether or not the act should be praised altogether is a different question. Kaylen Ward’s nudesfor-a-cause event is actually a huge monument of capitalist-feminist dystopia; and it is something that the world needs to realize. The world’s current distribution of wealth
The charity group “Oxfam,” have a yearly tradition of collecting statistics relating to wealthy people across the globe. Last 2018, they reported statistics proving that the 26 richest people that year had approximately the amount of resources of half the world’s poorest combined (around 3.8 billion people). The most recent report from 2019, on the other hand, showed that more than 2,000 of the world’s billionaires got a 12% increase in wealth, all while getting richer and richer. If the bigger picture of all that is to be visualized, just
NICO MERCADO:/P2
goal, prayer has always been his sword when facing his battles. “Literal lang ang tinanong ko (to God), ‘san mo ako gustong mapunta? Gusto mo pa ba ako mag aral?” Mercado implored, eyes
Photo by: Aeron Gabriel Pantig closed, when he visited one kasi as much as possible of the churches in Paranaque. ayoko maniwala sa mga After a fleeting moment, signs,” he conveyed. The lad without any certainty if it also thought that he might was fate or just coincidence, get the wrong interpretation there was a man in front of which could probably lead him wearing an Adamsonian him to a more complex jersey. “Gulat din ako nun situation.
think of 0.8% of the world’s population controlling 44.8% of the sum of all wealth on Earth. In fact, you could take a deep breath for a second, and by then, Jeff Bezos (Amazon’s CEO) had already earned almost 2,498 USD, or 127,224 PHP in our currency (as of 2018 by the Business Insider’s report). The Philippine Statistics Authority’s statistic on that same year regarding the average Filipino family’s yearly income was 313,000 PHP. Hence, Bezos, in three seconds, could make the money an average Filipino family makes in an entire
year: and the average yearly family income in his country (the United States), under the same analogy, is the same income he makes in approximately 1/3 of an hour. And what does this have to do with Kaylen Ward? Well, the 1 million USD she raised after selling nudes for a couple of days is basically just pocket change (or income within seconds) for any of the 0.8% of the world’s wealthiest. Her action was never a necessity with all that wealth; and yet, she had to be the one to take the initiative to help with the fires, by selling nudes,
on Twitter, just to get people to donate. Other than the world’s lack of empathy for the tragedy and the need to offer them a libidinal satisfaction to get them to help, the idea that many of the richest could have easily helped with the situation, but didn’t, is absurd. In present-day, Oxfam still has the same narrative with their January 2020 statistic: 2,153 billionaires are now richer than around 60% of the world’s population (or almost 5 billion). Whether or not any information surrounding it will change is up to the rest of the year to tell.
Regardless, the eagerness to fulfill his goal – overpassing the prospects of being a student leader – made him decide to finally enroll as non-scholar in AdU and staked his work savings to pay for the enrollment fees, fingers crossed to what goes next after he stepped in the university. After a series of circumstances along with his hardship to survive the first semester as a geology student, he was offered a full scholarship which opened doors that led him back to what he was actually supposed to be – a student leader.
Adamson University Student Government (AUSG) that challenged his leadership skills in serving the whole Adamson Community, yet it wasn’t just his final flourish. Aside from excelling in studies, he also became a member of regional and national organizations who represented our institution such as in South Manila Education Consortium Student Council, Greenducation Philippines and Ayala Young Leaders Alumni Association, Inc., and became one of the national finalists in Outstanding Jose Rizal Model Students of the Philippines which aims to recognize students who best exemplify Rizalian qualities of academic excellence and leadership in campus and community services as role models of the youth. What he established as a freshman in AdU was somewhat different and out of
his scheme compared to how he is managing his life right now. Every step forward is a whole new challenge, still, his goals constantly make him driven. Mercado also advised to keep pursuing a certain ambition, regardless of what other people might think about it. “Panghawakan mo yung goal mo… If you think you deserve it, kunin mo,” he added. There are instances in life that we forget who we used to be until we figure it out when we come back by chance or by choice. Nico Mercado’s student leadership journey may conclude soon since he is on his final semester from becoming an alumnus of Adamson University but nonetheless, he is receptive to the idea of what the future may bring to him as leader and servant of the people.
Leadership remains, flourished From being the vice president for internal affairs of Physics Society of Adamson University (PSAU) for two years, he consequently got elected as the president of
Entertainment
Review: Fine Line by Harry Styles>> Page 2
‘Parasite’ review: A brilliant look at timely social ills By: Christian Joshua Corcuera
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arasite, a South Korean Film and firstever Asian Academy Awards Best Picture winner, directed by Bong Joon-ho, managed to portray pertinent social issues such as poverty and inequality in a black comedy thriller film. The Kims, a suffering family of four, are all unemployed and struggling to make ends meet. By pretending or posing as
unrelated individuals, they were employed in a wealthy family, the Parks, hoping to improve their lives. The movie opened with the Kims, showing the siblings Ki-woo and Kijung searching for Wi-Fi in their displeasing apartment basement. Together with their father Ki-taek, and his wife Chung-sook, they live an impoverished, miserable
life. Then, the tides changed for the Kims when Ki-woo landed a lucrative tutoring job for a high school student named Da-hye, of the wealthy Park family. He showed up at the lavish mansion of the Parks with a fake college diploma. The mansion seems to be a dream for the miserable Ki-woo. Later on, his parents and his younger sister will join him
in this mansion by taking other jobs for the Parks. As Ki-woo was accepted as Da-hye’s tutor, Yeon-kyo, the mother of Da-hye, told him that she was searching for an art tutor for her younger son, Da-son. Taking advantage of the situation, Ki-woo suggests his sister for the job without telling her that they are related. Ki-jung, like her brother, pretended to
be a prominent tutor, which turned out well. Ultimately, their parents succeeded in having jobs for the affluent family as well. The Kims secured their positions by being opportunistic, using lies and charm to get rid of the Parks’ former employees - which notably includes a longtime housekeeper. One cannot blame them, though, since the Kims are being
pushed closer to an abyss as they fight for survival. To survive is to get out of terrible living conditions. The film had its turning point when the Parks leave on a camping trip. In their absence, the Kims occupied the mansion and indulged in its luxuries. As they celebrate and converse,
AUSG Representative. When asked about how our fellow Klasmeyt manages her time being involved in three organizations her answer: “I don’t.” Aminah shares a friendly advice regarding how people
should be properly treated, “Be kind, be supportive — with limitations, of course— ‘wag tayong pilosopo. Be kind, because you never know how your words or actions affect how other people perceive themselves,
you never know how your words or actions affect other people’s self-esteem.” Stream Klasmeyt AMSS’ music on Spotify, Apple Music or iTunes, and Deezer!
‘PARASITE REVIEW’/P2
Dead Awake By: Laurence Arellano
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ave you heard of ‘Dead’ by Klasmeyt AMSS? If not, you are missing out then! From doing covers, now a Spotify artist. Career Aminah Badawi or AMSS is the newest alternative pop artist to watch out for. Before releasing her own music under Eclectic Kiss (an independent music label), AMSS was just doing covers in her bedroom. Nick Lazaro (the man behind Eclectic Kiss and musician for Twin Lobster and MOONWLK) discovered her on social media. On a collaboration, her first single was made possible.
“It was something very new to me, like a whole different scene from what I was used to... I used to just do covers on Facebook to relieve stress and suddenly, there I was recording. Not a cover, but my very own song. It feels surreal and exciting and completely overwhelming to finally get my music released, with Nick’s help of course.” AMSS shared her journey. Nick describes AMSS as, “someone who knows how to use her voice as a weapon. When to be playful with it, and when to play around it.” as seen on Nick Lazaro’s Instagram page. In line with Eclectic Kiss’s intention, “The label intends to represent the off-
kilter, yet aurally presentable music in (but not limited to) the Philippines and Southeast Asia,” from Bandwagon Asia’s article. University Life Aside from being a musician, Amss is also a full-time Communication student. She is currently Falcon Radio’s (AdU’s campus radio station) Head for Radio Operations, Komunikator’s (official publication of the Creative Communicators Society of Adamson University) cartoonist, and CreaCommS’ (Creative Communicators Society of Adamson University, academic organization of Communication Department)
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
Page 2 • Entertainment
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t was an unexpected surprise when Harry Styles dropped his firstever single “Sign of the Times” almost three years ago. Despite having no formal announcement, he managed to take the world by storm, snatching the top 1 spot in the U.S. Apple iTunes charts within 19 minutes. Three days after, Styles named May 12, 2017 as the release date of his self-titled debut album, just a month after his first single as a solo artist. The same thing happened recently; after more than a year-long drought from any social media presence and music releases, the charismatic singer-songwriter broke Twitter with a sudden release of his single “Lights Up” last October 11, 2019, catching his fans off-guard as it was also paired with an official music video all in one drop. A few weeks after, he announced that
he will be releasing his sophomore album “Fine Line” on December 13, 2019. He then released two more catchy pop-rock energizers to precede the album, “Watermelon Sugar” and “Adore You,” which repeatedly put him back on the U.S.’s no. 1 spot on the charts. “Fine Line” consists of 12 tracks that the 70’s rocksounding star hinted to be his most vulnerable yet exciting work since his career as a solo artist: touching more on his personal struggles on love, hope, and freedom. Unlike his debut album, Styles seemed to have made this one in a much freer manner, no longer aiming to cater to the general public. Instead, he just enjoyed the process of making it without the consciousness and anxiety about wanting it to be as successful as the first one. It seemed as if not having his eye on topping the charts is exactly what
made this album receive much better critique, for it garnered higher scores on various media outlet ratings compared to his self-titled debut. Utilizing his more refined vocals and the magic of orchestration, the first track “Golden” started the album off strong as an anthem of lovers in the honeymoon phase of their relationship. “I know that you’re scared because hearts get broken,” he sung, building on one of the biggest themes of the album: heartbreak. The next three tracks were the singles that preceded the release of the full album: Watermelon Sugar, Adore You, and Lights Up. The first four tracks were a barrage of classic Harry Styles’ old-schoolretro-house-party sounding production, with catchiness that was sure to capture tons of radio play. The next two tracks, “Cherry” and “Falling,” however, took the album on
a full-turn from having you dancing in your living room to making you cry. These are probably what Styles was referring to when he hinted more vulnerability, as “Cherry” contained an actual recording of his ex-girlfriend Camille Rowe’s voice and “Falling” seemed to be a piano ballad about the same topic. This was a moment of proud tears from fans, as he never revealed who the songs on his debut album were about, and now he just spills details on what are probably his most vulnerable lyrics yet. The second half of the album, though, was where its “flaws” seemed to have surfaced. The Spotify streams of the first half ranged from 26 to 200 million, while the second half only ranged from 16 to 22 million, which posed a huge gap. The question was, is it because of big differences in quality? Well, not quite. In reality, the “cons”
may only be because the second half of the album was not made to appeal to the general public (unlike the first half, which had all the lead singles), having two six minute tracks and the other four not having the generic sound many people like. “To Be So Lonely” was like the calm after the heartbreaking yearning heard in “Falling,” while “She,” being the second longest track, contained an almost three-minute long guitar solo. Given the attention span of the average listener (which is getting shorter and shorter, by the way), it’s no surprise, really, that not as many people like them. But it wasn’t exactly a poor choice for Styles, since popularity and success were not his goals for this album. “Sunflower, Vol. 6,” “Canyon Moon,” and “Treat People with Kindness” had the least number of streams among the others, embodying the signature 60’s to 90’s mix of country/
pop-rock instrumentation and production turned into modern-day renditions while the final title track “Fine Line” was the longest: being six minutes and eighteen seconds of what made for a powerful conclusion to the album. Turns out, the phrase “we’ll be a fine line” refers to striking balance in everything in life; of drawing a line between the good and bad moments, which the album captured very well. It was sealed that the album had a glorious beginning and end because of this track, despite it not being as popular as those in the first half. Nevertheless, Harry Styles remains one of the most successful artists among his former One Direction members along with Zayn Malik. Given that he was more carefree with his sophomore release, it is no surprise that many fans REVIEW: FINE LINE/P4
‘PARASITE REVIEW’/P1 the father thought of the Parks that “They’re rich but still nice.” To which his wife counters, “They’re nice because they’re rich.” Their celebrations, though, were cut short when the old housekeeper returned with a surprising revelation. The brilliant yet unsettling film suddenly turned smiles into frowns, and comedy into tragedy as a staggering reality unfolds itself afterward. Parasite portrays - in a clear, sublime, and subtle manner - the wide gap between the rich and the
poor as well as the constant dilemma of those living in or close to poverty. With an obvious focus on inequality, Parasite managed to highlight the depths of society’s contemporary crises. As exemplified by the Kims and the Parks, the rich get richer, and the poor struggle fiercely to merely improve their lives. The director is renowned for being a master of mixing genres, dark comedy, and featuring social themes. Aside from the director, the cast also deserve to be
recognized for their pristine acting. Bong has balanced thrilling terror with humor and exposure to social issues, particularly inequality, in this new masterpiece of his. More impressively, the film was able to provide a plot that seems unpredictable together with entertaining scenes and provoke essential thoughts at the same time. Altogether, Bong directed a film that discusses timely topics brilliantly and impressively. Its subtle scenes, unpredictable plot, and impressive
Image source: www.hypable.com performances of the cast are more than enough to satisfy its viewers and give them a feeling of unease or anxiety.
Parasite serves as Bong’s culmination or climax of his game and delivers a must-watch masterpiece
that portrays a widening gap between the rich and poor without compromising entertaining content.
Entertainment • Page 3
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
Mimi: Not Just uR 0rd1n4Ry Gh0öûRL By Paul Adrian D. Hular
Y
our l0c4L j3J3 gHo0üRlL has finally arrived, Skkkrrrt! Literally making waves through her throattiring vibratos and genretranscending musicality since February 2019, the image behind the trending “dalagang pilipina” interpretation, you still have no idea who am I referring to? It’s your girl, Mimiyuuuh! (I bet you sang the ohh~yeah part in your head) Before her YouTube success, the 23-year old
Jeremy Sancebuche was raised in Baclaran by Inay Bh3nG and Tatay Am4dZ who were street vendors of clothes. Jeremy graduated as a scholar and a student assistant at College of Saint Benilde with a degree in Fashion Design and Merchandising and also became an intern at the Bumgarner Studios owned by the internationally acclaimed designer, Mark Bumgarner. Another feather added to her hat was the opportunity to dress the
likes of Sarah Geronimo, Kim Chiu and Nadine Lustre before launching her own fashion brand, Fangs. Mimi added a new flavor to the art of video blogging that made her stand out from the growing number of “Hi guys welcome back to my channel” cliche. Her “vocalizinationism”, as coined by herself, became her calling card and easily gained her almost a hundred thousand subscribers in a span of one month. sixty-one vlog uploads
with almost 82 million views from her 2.23 million subscribers but she only needs one thing to make all this internet plot twist happen, that single fang lying in between her pearly white teeth, she’s not only your adorable j3J3 gHo0üRlL, yes, d1n0sAuRrr s1yA gH0rL. A look at her funny antics and ability to coin words and phrases that no one would expect is a testament on how confident and smart she is as a person. Despite being asked repetitive questions about her awkward canine, she simply shrugs it off and still flaunts it because why not? As far as we know, she is the only d1n0sAuRrr vlogger with a vocal range beyond Mariah’s five octaves of course she is Mimiyuuuh, the newest gem of RnB, that runs and riffs of hers? She is ready to take the music world by storm. Exaggeration aside, take all the glam and sophistication away, she will make sure that you will remember her by all means. Her energy can light up a room, cracking jokes and trend-setting clips that will be embedded in one’s consciousness. Aside from being a chemist, historian and vocal coach, (watch her vlogs as a point of reference) Mimi is also a fashion-icon in the making, She knows her
style and she is not afraid to look different with her sense of styling. Oversized jeans, shirts, weird-looking tops, avant-garde boots and other embellishments, name it, she got it, skkrrrt! Mimi’s YouTube success was no surprise. She was able to stand out from her contemporaries. Almost everything about her spells iconic, from bob-cut hair down to her d1n0sAuRrr (rawr rawr rawr) toes, she fully embraced herself without coming off as arrogant but rather confident--a quality of hers that led to her rise as one of the major influencers at the end of the decade. Instead of being dragged down by her flaws and mishaps, Mimi turned the odds on her favor and used it as an advantage to be unique and that edge of hers turned out to be her ace to be gradually noticed and be appreciated as she is. Since the boominizinationism (Mimi’s vocabulary) of her vlogs and consistently hit the trend list on YouTube, more aspiring vloggers that came after her became more open and appreciative about how they look, one vlogger who openly accepted his flaw through a vlog is David Guison who admitted that a famous doctor to the artists offered a rhinoplasty
to him and he declined the offer staying true to what his subscribers appreciated about him. That is the “Mimiyuuuhnizinationism” Effect, it is not just only making people happy and producing toxic-free videos but also accepting one’s flaw and use it as a platform to inspire others to be who they want to be and stray away from what the society has labelled them to be. With a brighter future ahead, she focuses on creating more “good vibes” content to unleash the fiveyear old in her and expand the growing number of “Miminizinationimized” gang, adding the suffix -zinationism to every word one can think of, reverberate “rawr rawr rawr’’ in accordance with our l0c4L d1n0sAuRrr gH0rl and significantly, acceptance of one’s personality and be a happy pill to others despite all the negativities barraging the society. Above all, our dalagang pilipinas will always be a beacon of joy for those who are struggling and seek haven to lessen the baggage they are carrying, that is Mimiyuuuhnizinationism coming through. This has been your girl, MimiyUuUh (altogether, prepare the vibratos, ohh~yeah)
nakakakilala sa akin. Sino’ng makikinig ng buong album ko?” “Kung kaya ko lang bumirit tapos mahal ko hiphop, siguro magco-compose din ako ng mga kantang ‘ballad’”, he jokes about on the possible gimmick he can do. His goal to bring back
the lyricism to the songs, what he truly pushes about. He mentioned how children nowadays get hooked with catchy songs and yet, they do not know the music their fond of and instead, it is overshadowed. J Rose perceives rap music meaningful and respectful. “Kung gusto mo
talaga, why not pursue it.” as he points out that it is not required to be famous. If you love what you are doing and you are inspired, the energy is different in you. One Love. You may stream J Rose on Spotify and YouTube, Klasmeyts!
Arise of a J Rose By: Laurence Arellano
J
ose Gabriel Yamson Flores, commonly known as Jab, is starting his career as a hip-hop artist. Derived from the combination of his and her sister’s name, J Rose has risen to make waves. Beside nursery rhymes, Hip-Hop also shaped the rapper’s childhood. Jab’s mother — who plays a huge role in his life, introduced him to acts like Bone Thugs-N-Harmony and Francis Magalona. Having his early years at Tondo influenced him to local rappers like Mike Kosa and 187 MOBSTAZ while his international preferences are Nas, Eminem, 2PAC, J. Cole, and Kendrick Lamar. “Noong pagdating ng grade school, nakilala ako sa amin na ‘hip-hop’ [ang pamumuhay]; naging lifestyle ko na rin.” Since he was a child, he dreamt of having the chance to be on stage to perform his music — a motivation of his that ignited J Rose.
Tracks When it comes to songwriting, he preferably writes his own songs and usually asks fellow rappers or friends on what topic to write about. “Isusulat ko muna yung thought na gusto kong sabihin, naka-separate ‘yun. From there, doon ko na ikoconstruct yung mga rhymes. Hindi ko isusulat ng basta, ‘eto rhyme ‘to.” Wonder WoMom – A gift that is intentionally for his mother. It started when he was thinking about what gift he should give for his mom’s upcoming birthday that happens to be on Christmas day. Since he now has the access for recording, exclusive beats, and people – why not make the most out of it? Hence, the birth of this ode. Bagong Usbong – The 2nd single he released with a collaboration with Los Santos. An invite from his high school classmate was
always postponed. J Rose picked from the previous writings he had and there it began. In the two months of process, he did not expect how good it sounds. Practicality and Passion In order to sustain his family, he plans to find an actual job immediately after he finishes college. Presently enrolled as a Communication student, Jab is positive about pursuing his music career even after he graduates. “kumbaga nag-ooffice ako, pumapasok ako, on the side siguro weekends, na sa shoot or studio ako. Tamang juggle lang ng oras. Pero kung mag-hit ako sa acting o rap, why not?” mentions how will he balance practicality and passion. Jab shares the struggles of releasing music while he is still a rising artist: “Para yung tao, yung audience makapag focus sa ni-release mo. Kaysa magrerelease ako ng album, wala namang
Entertainment • Page 4
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
Holiday Scam
priest named Valentine finds it unfair for Christian believers and opposed the emperor’s order to suspend marriages. The priest was imprisoned for continuing secret marriages under Claudius’ orders. He met Julia — his jailer’s blind daughter, whom he tutored during his detention. They prayed together and believed that God restored her vision. On the eve of the execution, he wrote to Julia and signed: “From your Valentine.”
By: Laurence Arellano
I
bet you bought sweets and flowers or even wrote a card for your loved ones on this year’s Valentine’s Day — a holiday where red shaped hearts are visible on every corner. People always associate this holiday with love. Have you heard the dark origins of this romantic holiday? Drunken Festival In Rome, an ancient pagan festival called Lupercalia was annually celebrated every mid-
February to celebrate the fertility of the people. It starts from a ritual inside a cave on Palatine Hill. Luperci (Roman priests) sacrifices one or more male goats and a dog. The bloody knife from the sacrifice is smudged on the foreheads of the naked Luperci and it is removed by milk-soaked wool. Priests run naked around Palatine by hitting women using cut strips of goat from the ritual. Many women accept the batter as to believe
that fertility will prosper them. Another festive event is where men draw from a jar filled with a woman’s names. During the festival, they are paired up to mate and oftentimes fall in love and get married. Christianization During the 3rd century A.D., Roman Emperor Claudius II believes that soldiers who are single are more effective than with wives and children in battle. A
Romanticize In 5th century A.D., Pope Gelasius I declared February 14 as Saint Valentine’s Day to Christianize the celebration and eliminate the pagan festivity. Saint Valentine became the “patron of lovers”, mostly associated with romance. In 1981, Jack B. Oruch, an English professor at the University of Kansas wrote an academic article: “St. Valentine, Chaucer, and Spring in February”. This is where spring takes place — usually, birds begin to mate and plants start to bloom. An English poet named Geoffrey Chaucer, has somewhat
connected Valentine with romance with his poems: “Parlement of Foules” and “The Complaint of Mars”. William Shakespeare, another English poet helped romanticize Valentine’s through his writings that popularize all over Europe. Commercial The 19th century boomed the second industrial revolution; commercialization of this holiday began. Hallmark Cards, Inc. started to massproduce cards in 1913, people started to make purchases for
their loved ones. Valentine’s Day 2019 added $20.7 billion to the United States economy. Compared to 2018, it is more than $19.2 billion, according to the National Retail Federation. The top purchases on this holiday are candy, greeting cards, evening out, flowers, and jewelry. Valentine’s Day is a holiday scam that huge companies love to make money — flower shops increase prices, restaurants serve Valentine-themed menus, and couples avail night out events.
REVIEW: FINE LINE/P2 were torn about which of the two good albums on his belt they liked better. Do they prefer the meticulous crafting of the debut album with powerhouses such as “Kiwi” and “Sign of the Times,” or were they taken aback by the striking lyricism of “Falling” and “Cherry” more? These are questions that garnered many different responses from his audience. No matter the mixed answers, however, it is undeniable that Harry
Styles did not run out of surprises to offer for his second album. His streak of charttopping releases remained unbroken. In fact, “Fine Line” even paved the way for more people to become fans of the powerful stage presence he exudes when he performs live. Currently, Harry Styles is set to embark on his “Love on Tour” journey across Europe and America.
Arts & Letters
Positibo >> Page 6
Gising na By Verity Banogbanog Sleep paralysisTinambakan ng mga salapi ang nakahiga mong katawan. Mga bungkos ng pera ang nakapatong mula sa iyong mga paa, binti, hita, bewang, tiyan, dibdib, leeg, mukha, at ayaw mo nang gumalaw. BangungotInaabot na ng mga umuungol na anino ang iyong mga paang nakalutang sa hangin habang ika’y nakatingala sa langit dahil natatakot na ang iyong makita sa ibaba ng iyong mga binti ay ang buhay na hindi mo mararanasan- kahirapan. OyayiTikom pa ang bibig habang hayahay lang sa duyan sumunod na panaginip. Hindi pa bumubuka ang iyong mga mata subalit gising na ang diwa. Naalimpungatan, may naririnig ka na ngunit malambot ang iyong kama- pwes, gising na.
Nakakabulag pala ang mga bagong ilaw sa Maynila By Gabriel Tongco
M
asyadong matagal ko nang kabisado ang mga pasikotsikot sa Luneta para malimutan pa ang hitsura nito. Paglabas lang ng SM ay halos bilang ko na ilang hakbang ang kailangan bago madatnan ang mga imahe nina Bonifacio. Minsan na ito naging tahanan sa mga tindero’t tindera, nakakapagpasikip
nga lang ng daanan dahil sa ipinepwesto nila na mga tolda. Saksakan din ng dumi dito dati! Maraming pakalat-kalat na mga bata. At sa sobrang dami ng basura, halos wala ka nang tumutubong damo na makikita. Ngayon, naging maaliwalas at maluwag na ang mga daanan, masarap na rin sa mata ang bagong mga disenyo na ikinatutuwa ng
karamihan. Ang mga kalye sa Maynila ay mas nabuhay, nagmumukha nang may magandang kinabukasan na nakapangako. Parang mas nakikita ang pagmamalasakit at pagmamahal sa bayan dahil sa liderato. Malinaw na malinaw ang tila mabuting pagbabago. Ngunit kapag inisip mo nang maigi ang Maynila,
wala nang bago sa mga pinapalakpakan dito. Hindi na tayo natuto; sinamba na natin ang mga istraktura ng isang diktador, pati na rin ang ekonomiya ng dating presidente na manloloko. Dinadaanan natin ang “kaligtasan” sa pagpatay ng mga tao, at ngayon naman ang “kalinisan” sa bagong pininturahang mga pader at
ilaw sa mga puno. Bukambibig na naman ang “sumunod na lang kasi kayo sa batas” na parang ito ang sukatan ng moralidad. Kalinisan at disiplina daw ang mga kailangan para tumakbo nang maayos ang sinisintang siyudad. Nilalagay nila ang mukha ng mga bayani para sa sariling interes upang tanggalan sila
ng mga prinsipyo; pero kung buhay pa ang mga Katipunero ay panigurado, sinugod na nila ang munisipyo pagtapos bumaba sa kanilang mga monumento, at kung babangon si Rizal mula sa pagkalibing ay isinulat nya na ang panibagong El NAKAKABULAG/P7
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
Page 2 • Arts & Letters
Wag kang lalagpas sa pulang linya By Gabriel Tongco
Kumusta? Kilala mo na ba ako? Ako ang mga galamay ng lahat ng masama na nakikita ninyo. Sa kabila ng ilusyon ng liwanag, ako ang anino. Ako ang natatanging multo na hindi kayang galawin ng kahit na sino. Baliktarin mo man ang mundo, patungo sa akin ang iyong paninilbihan. Kaya’t hinatulan ko kayo ng pulang linya, para hindi na maagaw ang hawak kong kapangyarihan. Kaya’t pagandahin mo ako. Sa tuwing magsasalita ka, isipan mo muna ng magandang anggulo. Hindi puwedeng madungisan ang pangalan ko. Paano na ang mga bundok
Ang sabi ko tulong By Ava Alcala
Subalit ang mangga’y pinigaan niya ng sili na siyang inorder mismo nitong si Juan Binudburan pa ng tabasco at tsaka paminta sus, ginoo, mechado ang dating niya.
Ito namang si Ser biglang nataranta Sa palahaw ni Juan na hindi matantya Sinunggaban ang baso sa may tabi niya Na di niya alam laman ay gasolina.
Pagkakita ni Juan sa sumsumang inihatag nalimutan na ang resbak na kanyang binalak Aba’y walang isang saglit ito’y kanyang sinunggab At walang prenong kinain at saka nilaklak.
Pag-abot kay Juan, ito’y biglang tinungga Aba’y mahihiya ang kamelyong aba Walang isang segundo, ito’y bino-toms up Said ang laman, walang patak na naiwan.
Di kaginsa-ginsa ang nguso niya’y namaga Sa tindi ng anghang na kanyang nadama Naku ang nguso ng baboy talagang mahihiya sa laylay at laki ng pamamaga.
Hala naku, alam mo ang nangyari? May dumating na mamang gusto ay magsindi ng sigarilyo niyang mukang kakawati at sinindihan ang lighter na kanyang binili.
Tulong tsong, tulong ang siyang binulalas Nitong si Juan na halos ay mapaiyak Pahingi ng tubig ang sambit niyang palahaw Hindi ko na kaya ang aking paghihirap.
Biglang umapoy ang pondahan ni Ser mahihiya ang fireworks sa alab at kinang Takang-taka iyong mama na nais lang maglibang Sa sigarilyo niyang galing pa sa kaban.
ng kasinungalinan na matagal ko nang itinatago? Lagyan mo ng hangganan. Baliin natin ang katotohanan lalo sa mga oras na pinakakinakailangan. Panatilihin mong malinis ang simoy dito ng hangin. Kung magkaron man ako ng mga pagkukulang, ay ipagpasa-Diyos na lang natin. May mga problema ba? Magsabi ka sa akin, pero tahimik ka lang sa iba, ha? ‘Wag na ‘wag kang lalagpas sa pulang linya kahit gaano pa ito kaliit. Dahil kapag namulat ka sa reyalidad ko, baka mas gustuhin mo na lang ang manatiling nakapikit.
Arts & Letters • Page 3
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
Banda Roon sa Amin By Nina Pia Boco
H
indi mapag sidlan ng saya ang puso ng batang si Angel habang nag tatampisaw at nagsasaya sa beach kasama ang mga barkada’t kaklase. Ito kasi ang unang beses na pinayagan siya ng magulang na lumabas para mag outing na hindi kasama ang kanyang chaperone at ate na si Ariel. “Buti di na pinasama
Ate mo, Gel?” ika ng kaibigang si Sha kay Angel habang parehas silang nagpapatuyo ng buhok. Kakatapos lamang nilang magbabad sa dagat. Napatawa si Angel, “Kahit ako sobrang nagulat e. Iyon lang, hanggang alas kwarto lang ako.” Tiningnan ng 14-taong gulang na si Angel ang kanyang telepono, “20 minutes na lang.”
Pabirong siniko naman ng kaibigan si Angel, tila ba pinapasaya ito, “Uy, puwede na ‘yan, ‘no! Kesa naman ‘di ka pasamahin talaga o pinasama sa ‘tin si Ate Ariel mong masungit.” Sabay namang natawa ang magkaibigan. “Oo nga, e. Sobrang saya ko talaga nakasama ako sa inyo.” Ngiting-ngiti namang sagot ni Angel.
Makakadaan na kayo By Verity Banogbanog
“T
ay, gusto ko magkaroon ng sariling malaking tindahan. Kasinglaki ng SM,” sabi ni Dan habang nakaupo sa nakalatag na kariton, nakatingin lang sa katapat na mall. Dalawa sila ng kanyang ama na nagbebenta ng mga pekeng charger ng selpon at mga alahas kagaya ng kwintas at singsing sa gitna ng parke na malapit sa SM Manila. Marami din ang nakahilerang mga tindahan sa kanilang pwesto kung saan naging tirahan na din ito ng karamihan, kung wala mang bubong ang matutulugan basta makahanap lamang ng pwesto sa tabi-tabi. “Marketing daw ang kunin mo. Nagtanong ako sa isang estudyante na bumili sa atin nung isang araw,” sagot naman ni Nestor, tatay ni
Dan, habang nakaupo tabi. “Maganda yon para sa mga gusto mag negosyo,” dagdag pa nito. Apat na pu’t anim anyos na si Nestor ngunit elementarya lamang ang natapos. Bagamat hindi naging mapalad ang kanyang pagsabak sa Maynila at nakasadlak pa rin sa kahirapan, hindi naging hadlang para sa kanya ang mangarap na maging matagampugay ang kanyang nag-iisang anak. “Madami akong nakikitang dumadaan na naka-uniporme, ‘tay. Sa tingin ko may mga malapit lang na eskwelahan dito,” sagot naman ng kanyang anak. “Kailan ako makakapagaral?” dagdag pa nito. Biglang natahimik si
Nestor at isinawalang bahala na lang ang tanong ng bata. Alam niya sa kanyang sarili na pag-aaralin niya ang kanyang anak na sampung taong gulang na, ngunit hindi pa sapat ang kanyang ipon na nanggagaling lamang sa isang matumal na puhunan. Lumipas ang ilang minuto, tinignan ni Nestor ang mukha ng kanyang anak at nakaramdam ito ng lakas ng loob. “Sa susunod na pasukan,” ani niya. Isang liwanag ang nagmula sa ngiti ng batang paslit nang marinig ito sa kanyang ama. Hindi mabilang ang tibok ng kanyang damdamin dahil sa wakas makakapasok na siya sa isang paaralan. Ikinatuwa MAKAKADAAN/P7
“Nga pala, narinig niyo ba sa radyo kaninang umaga?” biglaang tanong naman ng kaibigang si Jen. “Oo! Sinabihan nga ako ni Mama na ‘di na puwedeng magpa-gabi simula ngayon, e. Sobrang delikado.” Sagot naman ni Sha. Ang usapang ito ng magkakaibigan ay dahil sa naibalitang pananambang sa kanilang siyudad. Limang
kaso na ang naitalang patay mula sa sunud-sunod na pananambang sa iba’t ibang barangay. Wala pa ring nahuhuli ang mga pulis na kahit na sinong suspek para sa mga pagpatay na ito. Tila ba naging normal na lang para sa siyudad tuwing eleksyon ang ganitong sitwasyon na hindi na masyadong napagtutuunan ng pansin.
“Wag na din kayo mag pa gabi, ha? Delikado pa.” bilin naman ni Angel sa mga kaibigan habang nag-aayos na ito ng gamit para umuwi. “Basta sasama ka sa susunod, e!” pangungutya ni Jen. Nag-kibit-balikat lamang si Angel sa sinabi ng BANDA ROON/P7
Arts & Letters • Page 4
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
Contagious than the Virus by Ysea Francis Asprer
We are Chiniese, Not the Virus by John Renz Tubale
Photo by Jake Danielle Demafelix
Corona Virus by Maxmillan Wandag
Photo by Aleckine Troy Rada
Photo by Jake Danielle Demafelix
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
Page 5 • Arts & Letters
Photo by Jake Danielle Demafelix Photo by Aleckine Troy Rada
Photo by John Alvin Tan
Photo by Reanne Mae Bernardo
Photo by Aleckine Troy Rada
Photo by John Alvin Tan
Arts & Letters • Page 6
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
After the Ashfall By Christian Joshua Corcuera
I
t was Sunday when I woke up at almost 12 noon. “Ferdinand, wake up! There are lots of things to do, and you do nothing but sleep!" said a voice downstairs. My mother, Madelene, never understood how stressful my life in college is. Only during weekends do I get a good sleep because of the thick books I read on weekdays. I understand her, though, since my father left us at a young age causing my mother to do all the work. As I ate Batangas Lomi and tinapa served with vinegar, my mother went to work in the town market, leaving me alone. Moments later, I heard several explosions as loud as a bowling strike. I looked outside, and the volcano on the island was releasing ashes into the sky. Then, the skies turned gray, and lightning bolts struck the volcano. People were in a state of panic, including me, as things got worse. Everyone moved away from danger. And I, for reasons difficult to explain, stayed home. That decision was a huge regret. The night came, everything was silent. There
MAKAKADAAN/P3 naman ito ni Nestor. Sa kalagitnaan ng kanilang pagbebenta at pagpaplano tungkol sa pagpasok ni Dan sa eskwela, may mga malalakas na sirena ang tumutunog papalapit sa kanilang pwesto. Isang panibangong simula na naman kung saan hindi alam saan ang susunod na patutunguhan. “Magsilisan na kayo dito kung hindi pati kayo ay bobombahan namin ng tubig!” Sigaw ng isang mamang naka-bughaw ang suot na damit pati sombrero. Madami ang
yesterday. Fortunately, you're rescued immediately, otherwise, you're dead," he replied. After a week, I was discharged and stayed in an evacuation center for two months. The eruption's wrath was overwhelming, but help was lacking as well. One time, the mayor gave me a small bag of rice and instant noodles. Aside from the instant noodles, what frustrated me was that a lot of photos were taken of the mayor's action. Worse, the government said that they were willing to help all of us to recover immediately by providing loans, bearing no interest, payable in three years. After the ashfall, the struggle continues. I returned to my home, still covered with ash, and surrounding trees flattened. I live my life alone with no idea where to start, how to provide for my daily needs, how to continue my studies, and what will my future be like. I have to deal with this dire situation alone since those who must help, in times of great crisis, are missing in action. Perhaps, just perhaps, they are satisfying their own greed.
sa dami ng taong kasama ng nangangampanyang pulitiko. Hindi na sila nagka kitaan sa gitna ng dumog ng tao. Maya-maya pa, tatlong malalakas na putok ang umalingawngaw at biglang nagsigawan ang mga tao. Natatarantang hinanap ni Jen ang mga kaibigan at sa paglingon niya, nakahandusay sa lupa si Angel, walang malay at umaagos ang maraming dugo mula sa dibdib. Habang si Sha ay duguan ang braso at hindi makatayo. Gulat, takot, at kaba, hindi agad nakagalaw sa kinatatayuan si Jen. Tila ba tumigil sa pag-ikot ang mundo. Iyong dalawang kaibigang kausap niya kanikanina lang, nakahandusay ngayon sa harap niya. “ANGEL! TULONG!” Sigaw ni Sha habang siya mismo ay hindi makagalaw nang maayos sa sobrang sakit ng brasong nadaplisan ng bala. Ito ang nakapagbalik sa wisyo kay Jen at nilapitan ang kaibigan. “SHA! Sha, du-dumudugo iyong braso m-mo.” Nanginginig na sambit ni Jen sa unang kaibigang nilapitan.
Tinuro ni Sha si Angel na wala pa ding malay habang patuloy na ang agos ng kanyang mga luha, “Si Angel! Jen si Angel, s-si Angel!” Natatarantang nilapitan naman ngayon ni Jen si Angel na walang malay at patuloy ang agos ng dugo, “Angel! Tulong, si Angel! Please, Yung kaibigan namin! Angel!” hysterical na sambit naman ni Jen nang makita nang malapitan ang dami ng dugong nawawala sa kaibigan. Hindi mawari ni Sha at Jen ang kanilang gagawin habang nakikita nilang nawawalan ng buhay si Angel. Hindi maaaring mawala ang kaibigan nila. “Ngayon lang, sa unang pagkakataon lang namin nakasama si Angel nang ganito, Lord, ‘wag muna. ‘Di pa puwede. Please, ‘wag muna. Lord, sorry. Kahit kasama na si Ate Ariel lagi. Please…” Ngunit, huli na ang lahat nang madala si Angel sa ospital. Si Angel ay naging isang panibagong headline sa radyo ng siyudad.
BANDA ROON/P3 nagsitakbuhan samantalang ang iba ay mabilis na nililigpit ang mga gamit sa kanikanilang mga pwesto. May mga damit, telepono, laruan, at iba pang binibentang produkto ang nabasa dahil sa pagpapasabog ng tubig mula sa malalaking trak. Marahil maliit lamang ang pwesto nila Nestor ay agad itong naglaho sa isang iglap. “Parke po ito at daanan ng mga tao, hindi tindahan ng mga sari-sari,” ani ng isang boses na tila nagmula sa malakas na ispiker. Agad na pumanaw
ang iilang tindahan at nagsialisan ang karamihan na halos doon na mismo sa parke nakatira, pawang hindi maiisip ng ibang tao na naging tahanan at puhunan na din ito ng mga mahihirap. Epektibo naman ang aksyon ng mga pulis. Saan ba muli matatagpuan si Nestor at ang anak na si Dan? Nakakadaan na nga ang mga tao sa parke, ngunit hinarangan naman sa paghahanap buhay ang ibang pinaalis doon.
sumunod lang sa batas kapag hindi tayo ang naaapektuhan nito. Hindi natin ikinagagalit ang mga ipinabagsak na bahay at pagtanggal ng mga trabaho, pero kumbinsido tayong “kabutihan” na ang pagbigay sa tindera ng tatlong-libo. Natanong na ba natin kung sapat na ito para sa ikabubuhay nila? Kailan tayo mamumulat na tinatanggalan sila ng dagat at sisisihin kapag pinipilit pa rin nilang mangisda? Ito ang mga
rason bakit kailangan nating dumungaw mula sa mga bahay nating gawa sa ginto; hindi tunay ang pagiging “para sa bayan” kung wala ka sa panig ng mga inaapi na Pilipino. Maraming bagong ilaw sa Maynila, nabiktima ka na rin ba nito? Kung oo, pag-isipan mong maigi, dahil baka palaging ang mga nasa itaas lang ng lipunan ang tinitignan mo.
NAKAKABULAG/P1 Filibusterismo. Napakadaling sabihin na mahal mo ang bayan at ang mga Pilipino, pero ang pagpapakita nito sa gawa at pagtingin sa kapwa ang nagpapahirap dito. Pagkabulag natin sa pribilehiyo ang problema, hindi disiplina. Hadlang na sa ating mga may-kaya ang sikip ng daanan at ang dumi, habang ang problema ng mga nagtitinda ay kung paano sila makakakain gabi-gabi. Napakadaling sabihin na
was no food, no electricity, and no Wi-Fi. My mother did not return home, I never saw her again. I cannot sleep as I was worried amid lightning strikes, the roaring of thunder, and the neverending eruptions of the volcano. The morning came, but the same conditions persisted. I was in the middle of an abandoned town filled with thick ash. There was nothing I can do but wait for rescue. Five days have passed since the eruption. There was still no rescue. In a desperate attempt, I left my home walking to wherever, hoping for someone to see me so that I may still live another day. I literally did not eat anything for the past few days except for the lomi and tinapa my mother prepared for me last Sunday. Fortunately, I had some water until yesterday, but it's not enough. As I walked to nowhere, I felt dizzy, and my sight went black as I fell gently on the ash. I woke up with a doctor treating me at a temporary hospital tent. "What day is it?" I asked. "Saturday. Rescuers saw you in the middle of a road
kaibiga at niyakap na ang mga ito para makaalis na, “Basta ipaalam niyo ko kay Nanay, sobrang ayos sa’kin ‘yun. Pero bye na muna sa ngayon.” Matapos mag paalam ni Angel sa mga kaibigan, inihatid na siya ng mga ito sa hintayan ng puwedeng sakyan pauwi. sampung minuti lamang ang beach na kanilang pinuntahan para na rin payagan si Angel. Napansin naman ng tatlo na parang may mga nagkakagulo, di kalayuan sa kinatatayuan nila. Hindi naman naiwasan ni Jen nang umirap ng mapagtanto kung ano ang nangyayari sa komosyong nakita, “Hay naku! Mga pulitiko lang pala. Nakakasagabal na sila sa daanan, o! Dapat bawal na ang ganyan e.” “Uy, umusog tayo. Papalapit na dito ‘yung grupo nila baka masama tayo sa dumog. Naku!” paalala naman ni Sha sa dalawang kasama. Sumunod naman kay Sha ang dalawang kasamang kaibigan ngunit wala din itong masyadong nagawa at naipit pa rin sila
Lampoon
Say Sorry >> Page 4
Ikot-ikot lang
S
o paano nga ba mag-enroll sa Adamson U? Ang maganda dito klasmeyt hindi mo na kailangang pumila nang napakahaba para mag-enroll, ang unang hakbang ay bibigyan ka nila ng oras para makapagbayad ng tuition bago ang sinabing date ng enrollment,
pagkatapos noon ay bubuksan mo nalang ang iyong LMS o kilala bilang E-learning sa itinakdang araw ng enrollment at magkakaroon ka na ng schedule, ayun ay kung regular student ka o yung mga estudyanteng nasa block section pa, pero teka po, paano naman yung mga irregular students?
Ganoon din ang proseso, ang pinagkaiba lang ay ikaw ang mamimili ng section at schedule mo. Naalala ko tuloy nitong nakaraang enrollment, teka, kaway-kaway sa mga irregular students dyan! Ayun nga, dahil excited akong mag-enroll ay hindi talaga ako natulog at hinintay kong mag-alas
otso. Habang papalapit na ang itinakdang oras ay kinakabahan ako dahil baka maubusan ako ng subject, hindi ko kasi alam kung bakit may mga klasmeyt tayong pinagpala ng kamay at internet connection dahil isang segundo lang ay halos mapuno na agad ang isang section, na major
subject mo pa, pero hindi ganon ang nangyari. Nang pumatak ang alas otso ay kinuha ko agad ang mga sinulat kong subject para ayusin ang aking schedule, dumaan ang tatlumpung minuto ay hindi pa rin ako makapagenroll dahil sobrang tagal bago mag-load, lumipas ang isang oras
ay medyo nahi-hypnotize na ‘ko sa paikot-ikot na may nakalagay na loading, dahil nga sa wala akong tulog, at sa tuwing napapapikit ako ay nakikita ko sa utak ko yung loading na parang GIF na naka-forever loop, IKOT-IKOT/ P4
Sungit kayo, ghorl?
H
indi naman maikakaila na ang trabaho ng mga tao sa iba’t ibang offices sa loob ng University ay mahirap at draining. Malaki ang trabahong nakaatas sa kanila at minsan, sinusubok pa ito lalo ng mga personal na hamon ng buhay. Pero ang sa akin lang naman, bakit parang kasalanan naming mga estudyante na mahirap ang mga trabaho nila at laging nagsusungit pag may tanong o may kailangan ang mga estudyante? Deserve naman siguro ng mga estudyanteng maka tanggap ng maayos na
customer service, at the end of the day, may parte naman kami sa suweldong natatanggap nila. Kagaya noong nanghingi kami ng masks magkakaibigan dahil sa issue nga ng nCov, siguro naman, dahil may binayad naman kami for the medical supplies e, may karapatan kaming manghingi ng isang piraso ng mask. Pero, sobrang sungit ng approach ng isang nurse noong sinabihan kaming noong araw lang na iyon sila mamimigay. Okay lang naman sana e, siyempre, hindi nga naman unlimited din ang
supply natin sa Adamson pero puwede naman kasing sabihin iyon nang hindi nagsusungit at tila ba, burden sa kanila ang pamimigay ng supply na binayaran namin. Isama pa ang ibang tao sa cashier and finance na parang laging ampalaya ang ulam pag lunch. Laging nakakunot ang noo at ‘di makausap nang maayos ‘pag may tanong na kailangan. Hindi naman sa dini-discredit o nilalahat ang mga tao sa offices na ‘to, sana lang hindi naman maging SUNGIT KAYO/P4
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
Page 2 • Lampoon
Binalewala
T
o start off, this isn’t about that song that went viral. I’d like to take this opportunity to tell my sad experience during my first semester in the University. We all went through hell week and we can all agree we were bombarded with so many school tasks during finals. It cannot be denied that academic pressure drained all of us. My experience isn’t new to you. I’m sure you’ve heard of this multiple times or you might have gone through it as well. If I could describe my first semester in one word, it’d be depressing. There were so many projects to do to the point I didn’t have any time left for myself at all. Things weren’t in the palm of my hand, I was basically in huge distress. The thing about these projects, they’re group
tasks. In three of these, we are eight and in the other four. Up until now, I can’t fathom how I was able to do it all by myself. There were times that I’d stay in the CS walkway until 9 P.M. just to have things done and I’d be worried for myself because I still have to go home in Cavite which takes an hour and half (sometimes two) of travel. When I don’t get to finish stuff, I continue it at home, making me sleepless. Just imagine that my first class is at 8 A.M. and I have to travel by 5 in the morning just to get to Manila early. It’s honestly hard, during those times, it felt like I was only home for three hours. I was sleepless because I’m too busy. Deadlines were coming too fast and the pressure was really on. In the middle of doing BINALEWALA/P3
Boss, Buhok Natin ‘ha
S
elf-expression is a big deal for me because you’d get to look like how you want to look. It can be a ref lection of you r personalit y. My hair plays a big role in expressing myself. It gives me conf idence to face other people
and I’m much more comfor table in tak ing photos of myself. It just so happens that there are rest r ictions to that in the u niversit y. I g rew up look ing up to these people who spor ted these distinct hairst yles of their time. W hether it’s the
moptops of the ‘60s, the long hippie hairst yles of the ‘70s, and even the emo hairst yles of the mid to late 2000s, I always wanted my hair to be based on those looks and with that my hair had to be at a cer tain leng th, a leng th that isn’t really allowed
here at Adamson. Ever y time I get a war ning f rom the g uards, my day is absolutely r uined because I have to get a haircut. Su re, I g uess you can say I’m a bit exaggerated, it’s just hair, it’ll g row back, but I’m just TH AT at tached to my hair. It gets to a
point where I lose my focus for t wo to th ree days. At times, I wonder if I have some sor t of condition or a disorder because my hair is such a big deal for me. Ever y month I complain and ask about the same things. “How come that st udent has his hair that
long? It’s even longer than mine.” W hat is the basis of the g uards in check ing if a st udent should get a haircut? It is stated in the handbook that it must not go beyond the eyebrow, the nape must not reach the BOSS BUHOK/P4
Lampoon • Page 3
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
Always Keep Right
S
V, CS, ST, FRC, OZ, CT lahat ng gusali na yan may hadgan, pero alam mo kung ano yung wala? yung ugali ng mga estudyante na “Always Keep Right.” Nais ko lang ibahagi ang lagi kong nararanasan sa tuwing umaakyat ako ng hagdan sa eskwelahan na ito, lalo na sa bagong tayo
na Carlos Tui Building, dahil nga hindi pa gawa at inaayos pa lamang ang mga elevator dito ay nagtitiis muna ang mga estudyante sa hagdan, hindi naman nakakapagod, sobra lang. Ang hagdan sa CT building ay may lapad na halos 4 ft lang, yung kasya lang yung dalawang tao, pero pag dumating na ang oras
ng labasan at pasukan ng estudyante, dito na nagsisimulang magka-gulo sa hagdan ng CT building, yung dating dalawa ang kasya ay nagiging tatlo, merong pa kaliwa, may pa kanan, at parang pasnake pa nga kung minsan at hindi mo na alam kung saan liliko. Meron pang mga estudyante na kung
anu-ano pa ang ginagawa sa malapit sa hagdan at haharang pa, o kung minsan naman sa hagdanan pa mismo nagkwe-kwentuhan. Ang liit na nga ng espasyo, doon pa kayo tumambay. Bakit hindi natin gawing halimbawa ang mga kalsada na nananatili lamang sa i-isang linya ang mga papunta at pabalik depende
sa iyong destinasyon, bakit hindi magawa ng karamihan na mag-stick sa isang daanan. ‘Wag kang pabida klasmeyt at ‘wag kang bumaba o tumaas sa gitna ng hagdan. Kung paanong naging mulat tayo sa escalator etiquette dahil na rin sa napakadaming memes na kumalat noon sa Facebook patungkol
doon, ay sana maisipan rin nating maging mulat sa stair etiquette. Kaya naman sa lahat ng klasmeyt at sa lahat ng makakabasa nito, nais ko lang pong sabihin na pag aakyat at bababa ka ng hagdan, hindi lang sa school kundi sa lahat ng pasilidad na mapupuntahan mo, lagi mong tatandaan na “Always keep right.”
to help me but in return I only received reasons why they couldn’t participate. Some even reasoned out things that both you and I would recognize as lies. I have never seen sick people that look so beautiful in their IG story in my entire life. When I’m sick I look like garbage, and I don’t even have enough energy to post it online. It’s very saddening because in the first place if you cannot commit yourself to something, don’t do it. Group tasks are everyone’s responsibility,
not just the leader’s. It felt unfair. I had no time to rest at all and I can’t even prioritize my mental and emotional state at the time because I was too focused on getting these projects done. Unfortunately, there came a time where I lost it. I had a major breakdown because I was just too tired and there was no one helping me. I isolated myself from people and I didn’t even go to class. I was just crying in the ST Building, I didn’t care if people would see me. I just wanted to breathe.
It was because of this breakdown that I wasn’t able to complete some projects on its deadline, causing me to have a lower grade and made me lose an opportunity to study again for the 2nd semester. I am financially unstable so I was really holding on to a certain scholarship but because of my grade I couldn’t do so. Until now I’m still heartbroken about it, but I’d like to take this opportunity to send out a message to my fellow Klasmeyts. There might be some of you out there
that went through the same thing as me, I just want to tell you that you are not alone. Please continue to remain strong despite whatever you experience. On the other hand, to those people who are like my groupmates, please try to think twice before making a decision to leave your responsibilities behind to the group leader. You can never tell the outcome of your actions and what it can actually cause. Klasmeyts, lahat tayo estudyante. Meron tayong bagay na
pinagkakasunduan at ito ay yung mga nararanasan natin araw-araw sa paaralan. ‘Wag sana tayo maging dahilan ng downfall ng bawat isa at huwag sana balewalain ang mga bagay na responsibilidad naman natin talaga. Mahirap na klasmeyt, responsibility pa nga lang sa group task hirap mo na panindigan, paano pa kaya pagpapasok ka na sa isang relasyon? Hopefully this story will bring a lesson to each and everyone of us.
BINALEWALA/P2
these things we had to do quizzes (of course) and written exams since there were professors that didn’t require PTs as the final project and tell you what I was so out of it already. I’m physically, mentally and emotionally drained. It was during this time that you would normally beg for your groupmates to help you and so I did. Do note that these projects require strong manpower and deep cooperation but sadly I didn’t have that. I thought these people would be merciful enough
Lampoon • Page 4
TheAdamsonChronicle • VolumeXIII No.3
Say Sorry
I
k now I’m not the only one when I say that I got the worst case of second hand embar rassment upon reading that f irst memorandum that the Universit y released last Januar y 31 during the peak of the nCov hysteria here in the Philippines. It stated that all their Chinese st udents were mandated to self-quarantine f rom Febr uar y 1-14 and Chinese nationals were advised to post pone any kind of t ransaction in the school. Not just those who were abroad
but all Chinese st udents. The initial reaction, of course, was shock because I thin k we are the only Universit y in the Met ro who released that kind of memorandum. All the other universities’ memo reprimanded those who had t ravel histor y to China or abroad within the last few months. A nd then came that disg ust towards the note of racism that the memo had. Of course, it can be because of the ph rasing that was used and how the words were ar ranged. But still, is rechecking
IKOT-IKOT/P1 at magigising nalang ako bigla na may “surprise! Error 500 oops sorry something went wrong!” grabe naman yun, surprise talaga! Naalala ko pa na nagbibiruan pa kami sa group chat naming magbabarkada na ‘wag na tayong magaaral dahil sa kawalan ng pag-asa na mag-load yung system. Lumipas pa ang dalawang oras at sa wakas! nakapag-enroll na ‘ko.
not par t of how a memorandum of a big universit y is released? A nd I wasn’t the only one who felt this as the topic t rended in the online world, ever yone calling out the Universit y over the memo’s racist con notation. Big news sites even picked up the stor y like CN N, GM A News and was even published on the f ront page of Bulgar. The next day, the universit y released an amendment regarding the issue of the f irst memo. As a lot of the members of the
Chinese com munit y was offended (as per the Twitter th reads and ret weets and com ments), I was expecting for the Universit y to release a public apology aside f rom the amendment because of how offensive it might have been, but also a way of showing humilit y, just like how the t r ue Vincentian spirit is like, but, nothing. Yes, there was a par t of apology in the amendment of how it might have had a ‘misimpression’ for others, but, it wasn’t an apology that owes up
SUNGIT KAYO/P1 Naayos naman ang problema sa system pero sana ay agaran, kasi sayang naman yung mga estudyanteng gumising nang maaga pero aasa lang pala sa loading na may paikot-ikot na bilog. Tapos na iyon at nais ko lamang ibahagi ang istorya ko sa nangyaring enrollment nitong nakaraan, na sana hindi na maulit at laging may alternatibong paraan.
masungit ‘pag may mga tanong ang mga estudyante para sa requirements nila. Kaya maraming natatakot na magtanong at inquire sa offices na to dahil sa hindi welcoming na encounter sa iilang mga taong masusungit. Pero kahit na ganito ang ilang encounter sa offices na ‘to, meron din namang mga officers na maayos at very entertaining ‘pag
to what damage it has done not only to the Chinese com munit y but to us, st udents as well. For the most par t, the people who are affected by this embar rassment are those st udents who com mutes to and f rom the universit y wearing that ID lace that screams the school pride. Just recently, my f riend and I were riding the LRT going home and the t wo other girls f rom another universit y were loudly whispering, “‘Diba sila y ung sa racists?” We both kept quiet. This embar rassment
that was created by a select few are now going to be marked on each and ever y Adamsonian who’s apparently the collateral damage to this whole issue. Humilit y is one of the Vincentian values that is taught to us f rom the time that we enter the gates of Adamson, it’s even in the prayer that we say ever y day, but why can’t the universit y do that much? The universit y should own up to the mistake that the f irst memo had and say sor r y! And act ually mean it! Just like a t r ue Vincentian.
BOSS BUHOK/P2 nilalapitan o kinakausap. Sana lang lahat ganoon. Mas maka-estudyante, mas madaling lapitan at parang hindi mararamdaman ng mga estudyante na parang isang malaking abala ang pag lapit at pagtatanong sa mga officers na ito na siya namang naka-atas na trabaho. Sana, pati offices ay mai-uphold ang Vincentian values total iyon naman ang gustong mangyari din ng University.
collar, and bangs must be kept away f rom the face. I made su re that I’ll check all of those boxes when I get a haircut and sometimes, I still get a war ning. I can’t really blame them; they’re just doing their job. W hat is the point of a haircut policy? I’m not ask ing to spite the instit ution, but to get a genuine answer. We’re in college now, gone
are the days of needing adults to tell us what to do because we ou rselves are adults, most of us are al ready of legal age. This is the time for us to vent u re out and decide for ou rselves. It’s 2020 and I t r uly believe it’s the best time to be you rself.