Ang Pamantasan Issues can be viewed on Issuu. Scan this QR code to check out Ang Pamantasan’s digital contents.
PLM opened its online portal for freshmen applications from February 1 until March 31 and garnered more than 55,000 applications after the two-monthlong application process. As part of the modified freshmen admissions system for the Academic year 2021-2022, a two-step screening process was needed for the applicants to qualify for a degree program. From an initial list of 5,457 firstround qualifiers published last April 19, the university released an extended list comprised of over 14,000 applicants on the 24th of the same month. According to the university page, the expansion of the list was in response to the significant demand of students aspiring to attain free undergraduate education in PLM. All applicants residing in Manila and students chosen through a comprehensive evaluation of their high school records and validation of submitted documents formed the final Theselist.qualifiers proceeded to the second stage of the screening process — an online written examination that was held on May 7, 2021. “We are humbled and grateful with the overwhelming number of applications we received for aspiring freshmen students in the upcoming academic year. The administration decided to mount the PLMAT online to make it accessible to more applicants despite the COVID-19 quarantine restrictions,” PLM President Emmanuel Leyco said.
dictatorshipoflawlessnessexposingPamantasan,Hasik,asherleader,courageousabrandedwhoartscommunicationHilaoLiliosawasastudentwasastrueandusingplatformawriterofnowAnginthetheMarcos during her time. Aside from this, Hilao assumed positions in different student organizations in the university, as well as founding newborn organizations for the PLM student body. On April 4, 1973, the 23-year old student activist and campus journalist was beaten up and arrested from her home by a team of men identified as the Philippine Constabulary’s Anti-Narcotics Unit and was brought to Camp Crame. Three days later, Hilao was then in a critical condition brought about by serious physical injuries, confined at Camp Crame Station Hospital and was reported dead later on. Hilao is still an inspiration, especially for the youth, as the issues of injustice, deprivation of human rights, and poor governance that she upheld and fought 48 years ago still prevail in today’s society.
The cry of Olympic Weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz for financial support from private companies and individuals during her training in 2019 was answered by a meager Php 2 million private sponsorship.
PLM Library opens new section in honor of Liliosa Hilao 4 February - April 2021
BEKNOWINTHE Liliosa Hilao was a communication arts student who was branded as a true and courageous leader, using her platform as a writer of Hasik, now Ang Pamantasan, in exposing the lawlessness of the Marcos dictatorship during her time.
“Victory and Humanity”: Celebrating History of the Filipino for the Filipino Engraved from our HeKaSi and Araling Panlipunan lessons is the pivotal year of 1521, where a series of events that transpired held great significance in affecting the flow of Philippine history.
In honor of the martyrdom of Liliosa R. Hilao, the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) opened the Liliosa Hilao Gender and Human Rights Section in the Celso Al Carunungan Memorial Library last April 5, 2021.
The Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila expands its list of firstround qualifiers to recognize the call of thousands of freshmen applicants striving for a right to free education at the university.
SPORTS PSC-CHEd Offers Professional Sports Education for Student-Athletes, Future Coaches, and Sports Officials
applicants’PLMmultipliesaspirantsofNumbershortlistembracescalls:
The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
ANG Volume 41• Issue
PAMANTASAN
Photos from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
MORE ON PAGE 2 MORE ON PAGE 5 MORE ON PAGE 8 FEATURES
Facebook Page
CALVIN KRISTAN AGUSTINESTELLE THERESA GULAY In honor of the martyrdom of Liliosa R. Hilao, the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) opened the Liliosa Hilao Gender and Human Rights Section in the Celso Al Carunungan Memorial Library last April 5, 2021. This section is a collection of materials and texts promoting gender equality and fair opportunities for the PLM community. Joined by the PLM Board of Regents, together with the executive committee and student leaders at the virtual opening, are the sisters of the late student activist, Alice and Josefina Hilao. Producer and PLM Regent Wilma Galvante, one of Hilao’s former classmates in PLM, was also present at the ceremony. She recalled her memories with Hilao as a student, seeing her as an image of leadership and courage, with her pen as a weapon against injustice. During the event, the sisters were given a chance to share the life full of passion of their sister “Lilli” as a youth and her advocacies prior to her tragic death. In a message, PLM embodimentsayingLiliosaheLeycoEmmanuelPresidentsaidthatadmiredHilao,thatsheof the youth that sheds light on significant matters such as human rights, gender equality, and justice.
NEWS OGTS extends support with tele-web counseling and consultation services
PAMANTASANANGThe Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 41, Issue 3 • December 2020 - January 2021news02
MARY JILLIAN CRISTOBAL
ISKO
PLM lauds its 15 of 1, 234 new medical doctors in PLE 2021
COLLEGEPLMOFMEDICINE
PATRICIA GABRIELLE MARQUEZ
OGTS extends support with tele-web counseling and consultation services
Music performance and instrumentations: PLM-PCACS introduces free lessons for new academic year Photos from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Facebook Page
T he Presidential Committee on Arts, Culture, and Sports (PCACS) of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila initiated an invitation of free semestral online music workshop to all PLM students with a starting slogan: “Be a musical star!”, from last March 15 to June 30 of 2021.
Photo from The PLM Supreme Student Council
PLM-PCACS pursued their limited coaxing of applicants by including not only the students who wished to replace their Physical Education units with this course as a substitute subject. It was also led off to employees, faculty, and staff with the one-slotper-person-only condition. The registration then ended on March 30, 2021. PCACS Performing Group online music lessons offered such variety of training in piano, violin, flute, classical guitar, trombone, saxophone, drums, electric guitar involving bass and lead, recorder, classical voice, pop voice, broadway and student chorale, executive and faculty chorale, rock keyboard piano, rondalla, and clarinet. These music and performance tutelage were administered by accomplished pedagogues primarily membered by Vanessa Celestial, Benjie Kaaway, Maribel Ararao, and Harold Galang. It was last June 27 when the Online Recital 2021 was performed by PLM-PCACS, keying the piece “You’re the Inspiration” by Peter Cedera. However, the musical recitation was deleted from the source and is now unavailable for public viewership due to unknown reasons. Now that the new academic year is welcomed, their committee launched the PCACS Music Extension Program, which has open registration for aspiring cohorts, currently dated starting from September 1–30, 2021. Alongside the announcement are this year’s online music lessons timeframe and membership guidelines for the course of Academic Year 2021–2022.
ROMMEL LACAMBRA
I n honor of the martyrdom of Liliosa R. Hilao, the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) opened the Liliosa Hilao Gender and Human Rights Section in the Celso Al Carunungan Memorial Library last April 5, 2021. This section is a collection of materials and texts promoting gender equality and fair opportunities for the PLM community. Joined by the PLM Board of Regents, together with the executive committee and student leaders at the virtual opening, are the sisters of the late student activist, Alice and Josefina Hilao. Producer and PLM Regent Wilma Galvante, one of Hilao’s former classmates in PLM, was also present at the ceremony. She recalled her memories with Hilao as a student, seeing her as an image of leadership and courage, with her pen as a weapon against injustice. During the event, the sisters were given a chance to share the life full of passion of their sister “Lilli” as a youth and her advocacies prior to her tragic death. In a message, PLM President Emmanuel Leyco said that he admired Liliosa Hilao, saying that she is an icon of empowerment and an embodiment of the youth that sheds light on significant matters such as human rights, gender equality, and justice. Liliosa Hilao was a communication arts student who was branded as a true and courageous leader, using her platform as a writer of Hasik, now Ang Pamantasan, in exposing the lawlessness of the Marcos dictatorship during her time. Aside from this, Hilao assumed positions in different student organizations in the university, as well as founding newborn organizations for the PLM student body. On April 4, 1973, the 23-year old student activist and campus journalist was beaten up and arrested from her home by a team of men identified as the Philippine Constabulary’s Anti-Narcotics Unit and was brought to Camp Crame. Three days later, Hilao was then in a critical condition brought about by serious physical injuries, confined at Camp Crame Station Hospital and was reported dead later on. Hilao is still an inspiration, especially for the youth, as the issues of injustice, deprivation of human rights, and poor governance that she upheld and fought 48 years ago still prevail in today’s society.
PRIDEThePamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) salutes the 15 graduates of the College of Medicine who passed the Physician Licensure Examination last March 2021. Despite the pandemic, the PLM College of Medicine still garnered a passing rate of 88.24%, which was among the highest rates from other universities and colleges. With over 1, 925 applicants who took the test, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announced an overall passing rate of 64.1%, or 1, 234 passers for this batch of examiners. University President Emmanuel Leyco congratulates the newly added medical doctors and commends their crucial roles in this health crisis. “They are needed now more than ever to fortify the frontlines of our country’s battle against COVID-19,” Leyco said in the University’s press release. For the past years, PLM continues to maintain its position on achieving high passing rates in the licensure examination. It garnered passing rates of 97.58% and 100% from 2019 and 2020, respectively. The Physician Licensure Examination is a professional licensure exam for incoming medical practitioners, held twice every year by the PRC. 2021 Physician Board Exam 88.24%64.10% VS PASSING RATE
MARCH
PLM Electronic Engineering Students obtain the top prize in national competition
ANGPAMANTASAN The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 41, Issue 3 • December 2020 - January 2021 news 03 JESSA YUKI DAVID
P amantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM) together with its College of Law and Graduate School of law released a statement of support to the Supreme Court’s (SC) response to the calls for action last March 26, 2021, on the killings of lawyers and threats to judges in the country. In the statement, PLM condemns the killings and threats to the members of judiciary which prevent them from providing effective legal representation and dispensation of justice, undermining the rule of law and the protection of rights. PLM stands with the SC in denouncing these attacks towards the members of the judiciary.
“Whether the incidents of violence against lawyers and judges were work-related or not, the full force of the law in locating the culprits and bringing them to justice must be applied,” added in the statement. The local state university also lauds SC’s efforts in taking actions to protect lawyers and judges against violence and threats which enable them to effectively perform their professional functions. “Mindful of its mandate, PLM, as an institute of learning, will remain steadfast in its resolve to advocate the role of education in the promotion of the rule of law and culture of lawfulness.” PLM expressed. Last March 23, 2021, SC responded to the manifestations and letters of various concerned lawyers and groups. In the statement, SC acknowledges the concerns of the public. The highest court presented courses of action to address these concerns including the consolidation of information relevant to the cases of violence and threats, promulgating rules on the use of body cameras, the investigation of law enforcers on labeling judges, and coordination with civil society. “To threaten our judges and our lawyers is no less than an assault on the Judiciary. To assault the Judiciary is to shake the very bedrock on which the rule of law stands. This cannot be allowed in a civilized society like ours. This cannot go undenounced on the Court’s watch,” the court emphasized. The PLM’s statement of support is signed by University President Emmanuel Leyco, Board of Regents Chairman Dr. Francisco Roman, Regent and College of Law Dean Atty. George Erwin Garcia, and Graduate School of Law Dean and retired Justice Hector Hofileña.
O n March 9, 2021, University President Emmanuel Leyco announced on his official Facebook page that Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila had suspended both university-wide and college-specific policies on program retention for the First Semester of the Academic Year (AY) 2020-2021. The suspension, which was the university’s response to the difficulties encountered by many students in online learning, was approved by the Board of Regents upon the recommendation of the university management and the Council of Furthermore,Deans.Pres. Leyco added that the Board of Regents has also allowed students to file a Leave of Absence (LOA) within the semester before the final examination week. Under the university’s Maximum Residency Rule in the student handbook, the LOA period shall not be counted as part of a student’s residency. The suspended retention policies determine the continuing qualification of students to remain in their degree programs based on General Weighted Average. Respective colleges formulate their students’ retention criteria per the prescribed University policies and procedures. Following the “Dos Policy” implementation last AY 2019-2020, a first-year Bachelor of Science in Accountancy (BSA) student also expressed relief over the suspension. “For most students, the current situation is not conducive for learning, and we are still adjusting. It’s beneficial na tinanggal muna temporarily to help the students and the teachers cope with the new environment in consideration with their individual situations,” said the 1st year student who requested anonymity for personal reasons. The Dos Policy that was suspended along with other college-specific policies required BSA students a retention grade of 2.00 or better for all Accounting and Law and Taxation subjects. It also required students to score 65% or better in all the subjects of a comprehensive examination taken before their second and third year in the program.
Team Heisenberg from PLM College of Engineering and Technology (CET) emerged victorious in the national-level virtual competition of Maxim Integrated Philippines’ Design Innovation Contest, as they earned the top prize and Spotlight Award last April 6, 2021. The five electronic engineering students, namely Argen Arceño, Michael Buenvaje, Ronn Cuenco, Mave Credo, and Rollison Tabuyan, were awarded the overall champion for their innovation of voicecontrolled ultraviolet sterilization robot for disinfection. This features a UV-C lamp intended to target microorganisms on surfaces without any chemicals involved. It also consists of monitoring features that provide a live video feed through a camera module. “We never thought that we would actually make it,” Arceño said as she shared the challenges they encountered throughout the competition. “We had a lot of troubleshooting [and] breakdowns. Times when we didn’t even know what we’re doing. We even actually broke some parts of what we made a week before the final presentation.” Despite the circumstances, Team Heisenberg conquered to be the overall champion among the eight different universities who had competed in this national competition.Asidefrom a certificate and plaque of recognition, the winning team was pledged a P50,000 worth of prize by Maxim Integrated. Team Heisenberg continued what they started as they submitted another entry in an international contest. “We just finished another contest which is Elektor Labs AI contest, and got in as finalist; though we didn’t win this, we were still happy to represent PLM in an international one,” Arceño stated. The team’s proposed thesis recently got accepted to IEEE Xplore and is currently preparing to push through in an international conference.
Photo from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Facebook Page
JOHN COBY CABUHAT STEFANIE ANN SANTILLA
fortoSC’ssupportsPLMresponsecallsaction
PLM suspends retention policy for the first online semester
Following the “Dos Policy” implementation last AY 2019-2020, a first-year Bachelor of Science in Accountancy (BSA) student also expressed relief over the suspension.
Hilao. The administration believes that the GAD corner will serve to “promote gender equality and equitable opportunities for all members of the PLM community.” If this does set out to become what it is advertised to be, then it is a welcome advancement in bridging the gap between men and women in the university. PLM has made numerous gains in achieving gender equality even before. The university has been noticeably vocal and active in pushing for growth and inspiring dialogues about more progressive views among students and faculty. Events such as gender equalitythemed Ginoo at Binibining Pamantasan and even more radical changes such as “Gender Friendly” infrastructures proves that unequivocally, PLM has repeatedly raised the standards for what constitutes an openminded institution. Still, it can be argued that the administration’s steps have been pseudo-progressive. Students have called out the school for its conflicting rules and actions, pointing out inconsistencies that show the gap between what the university is trying to be and where they currently are. Admittedly, the university’s policies are still at odds with the visions they claim to have and some of their resolutions are imperceptive of the real struggles other genders face. However, it must be reiterated that restructuring cultural norms take time, and that radical change does not happen overnight. Likely, there are even people in the administration yet to be convinced of such ideals.
– Henry Ford Impetus The StepsFirstERICK JAMES CABUANG
PAMANTASANANGThe Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 41, Issue 4 • February - April 2021editorial04
Ahealthy school environment is what every educational institution aspires for in their league of work. This is the place wherein students and teachers spend most of their time in their own respective paths of life, gaining the needed knowledge and experience to make their dreams come true and their lives gain purpose. The culture of excellence that goes into these environments permeates every person inside every campus, eventually seeping its way through every lesson that each educator teaches and every bit of raw data that goes into the students’ bank of knowledge. It also acts as both a standard and a goalpost for all the aspects and variables that make up an educational institution: a school culture rooted in excellence, for example, engrains a valuable mindset in every personnel in the school environment to always utilize their capabilities fully and strive for the best. May it be in teaching and learning, the value will remain the same. Despite being one of the premier universities in the Philippines, PLM may have taken a step backward in its vision of excellence and a healthy school environment in favor of admitting more than what it can take.
“Education is preeminently a matter of quality, not amount.”
“ If we let the truth speak, we are still far from achieving a truly non-patriarchal culture in the university, much less in our society. Despite this, we as an institution must be proud, for few institutions can be seen with the same conviction PLM has had in tackling sensitive topics and encouraging dialogues about social injustices
The administration’s confidence in its online infrastructure is palpable right from the start of the implementation of online classes, all of which would offer no significant value when face-toface classes resume in the future. The fact is, the pandemic would not last forever. Students are not like dead birds in the sky, falling out from the heavens without any discretion. Taking into account PLM’s current capabilities and attributes as an educational institution, it is clearly not prepared to welcome its ~13 thousand enrolled students back to its arms. PLM’s gross floor area is approximately 30,000 square meters. If this is divided to its ~13000 students, it just clocks in at an extremely underwhelming 2.3m2, which is underwhelmingly far from the 10m2 international standards. This dreadful number does not factor in PLM’s faculty, personnel, and guests, and ancillary spaces wherein regular class activities do not take place. It is without any doubt that such calculations warrant great concern and action. Yes, we could reason out that it can be solved through efficient scheduling, the departure of graduating students, and the construction of new facilities and amenities ‒but that is misplaced confidence that could only do so much, as students will still be circulating and increasing each passing academic year. “Hindi kaya in terms of the number of classrooms kung babalik sa face to face… biglaan ang pagtaas eh… As of the moment, wala din akong idea. Kung paano balak nila in the future.”, these are only some of the statements given by one of PLM’s stakeholders. It is greatly concerning that PLM might be short-sighted in terms of their decision-making for the sake of their students and their stakeholders, both of which carry the branding of PLM in forming “critical-minded and serviceoriented leaders and innovators in various disciplines through accessible and relevant quality education…” Each student should have the opportunity to truly experience meaningful exposures and interactions with an abundance of schoolmates and teachers which will allow for a diverse experience for everybody: different-minded individuals interacting with one another in an environment of excellence, compassion, and servitude for those in need. Unfortunately, these standards are undermined by both the pandemic and PLM’s shortcomings in properly deciding for the future.
Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila surprised students and personnel alike in the recent admissions for this academic year 2021-2022 in welcoming a total of 6,636 enrolled students in the past year, marking an approximately 90% increase in the campus’ total student population. The move was described as in recognition of every Filipino’s right to free education, with PLM President Emmanuel Leyco acknowledging that “PLM is taking yet another bold step of accepting a high number of students despite the pandemic. As a publicly funded academic institution, PLM recognizes the right of Filipinos to access quality education and help them realize their dreams to become professionals and leaders in their chosen fields.” To put this number into perspective, the PLM campus recorded a total of 6,636 enrolled students in the past year, marking an approximately 90% increase in the campus’ total student population. The decision has drawn lukewarm reception from both the university’s current students and its faculty. “That decision may be favorable, but drawbacks may also stem from it. One thing that the university would have considered before reaching a resolution is the capability of PLM to receive a sizable number of students, which encompasses the ability of the university to dispense ample materials at their disposal for the desired objective of producing exceptional individuals”, a current PLM student says. A similar response was also gained from a PLM professor, elucidating that “Lahat naman ng changes ay acceptable if may magandang planning. Hindi yung bibiglain sa mga changes na hindi nabigyan ng time makapag adjust. Walang masama kung magdagdag. Basta hindi lang one side bibigyan ng pansin.”Looking through their different lenses provides a clear view of the true effects of this decision. Yes, PLM should be commended for their brave decision towards their mission of educating more future professionals and leaders of the future, but are they really fulfilling thisProblemspromise? regarding the stability of PLM’s chosen online infrastructure have been one of the more common issues. Some students were unable to enroll on time due to server errors and slow responses to student complaints. This led to students not being able to attend their respective classes on time, thus becoming left out. On average, professors and students also clock in at 13 or more hours per day in front of their gadgets with short and irregular breaks, resulting in halfbaked outputs and shortage for rest. A general lack of educational motivation made worse by mental health issues and occasions of inconsideracy and insensitivity common in the culture of Philippine education looms over each one at PLM. Add 6,000 students into this problematic equation, one can deduce that PLM would certainly not be able to fulfill the “right of Filipinos to accessible quality education and help them realize their dreams to become professionals and leaders in their chosen fields”
The Space Between Us
To this day, being a woman is still a challenge. For many, this means lost opportunities and access to the rights and privileges men enjoy. These inequities may present themselves in the workplace, but more disturbingly in schools, universities, and other academic institutions. In a place where learning is inspired, schools must exist, not only to discourage the propagation of these biases but also to work in ensuring that pre-existing stereotypes are rectified. In their latest bid for a more progressive school, PLM inaugurated its Gender and Development Library corner named after PLM alumnus Liliosa
If we let the truth speak, we are still far from achieving a truly non-patriarchal culture in the university, much less in our society. Despite this, we as an institution must be proud, for few institutions can be seen with the same conviction PLM has had in tackling sensitive topics and encouraging dialogues about social injustices. We have proven we can be bellwethers of the change we wish to see, for we have taken our first steps. People say that the first few steps are the scariest because it signifies change, a shift from the norm, and yet we have overcome the fear of taking them. Sometimes we fail to appreciate having taken these steps when we realize how far we still are. In our frustration to change the injustices we see in our lives, it is easy to lose track of the value of things we have done. We seek rapid change but fail to appreciate the progress in front of us. This piece is not meant to lick the administration’s boots, but rather to celebrate the small wins we have achieved in this battle. Let us continue to take these steps and appreciate the footprints we shall leave behind.
Uncertainties Admissions
GABRIELLE MARQUEZ
The PLMAT algorithm that the PLM Office of Admission has been following for the past years provides that aside from the PLMAT score, the Admissions Committee also considers other factors such as the applicant’s General Weighted Average (GWA) in evaluating and ranking them. This same algorithm was also used during the 2021 PLMAT, as it reveals that the basis for PLMAT 2021 admission is 60% based on the applicant’s GWA and 40% based on its PLMAT Score. However, due to PLMAT 2021’s difference from its previous formats, several issues have arisen. Most were complaints coming from applicants as some applicants who have outstanding academic backgrounds didn’t qualify to take the online exam; hence, there was frustration regarding the fact that PLM failed to disclose the basis within the selection of the applicants that would proceed. There were also
JEANETTE TROPA
PATRICIA
complaints regarding the verification process taking too long. Regarding the PLMAT schedule, the applicant’s internet connectivity issues were also encountered; some applicants failed to submit and even attend the online exam facilitated through Zoom. However, PLM gave another chance and rescheduled those who couldn’t take the PLMAT due to this problem. Amidst the pandemic, PLM is ready to still accept a new set of freshmen students who will embody its values of karunungan, kaunlaran, and kadakilaan. These students are set to serve the public interest, molded and empowered by PLM with knowledge for a particular program and life skills that can contribute to the betterment of our country.
A month after the application period had ended, PLM released 5,000 successful applicants out of the initial 50,000 to proceed to the online exam itself. However, due to a big surge of complaints from applicants not included in the list, PLM then released another list of successful applicants that also advanced to the online admissions test last April 22: the updated list had additional 9,000 names, bringing the total to 14,000 applicants. Unlike the previous versions of the PLMAT, which were composed of objectivetype multiple-choice questions, there were reports that this year’s version will feature a subjective essay-type test. The applicants should mark up and answer three questions. These changes allow minimizing the cheating issues brought on by the fact that last year’s PLMAT had several allegations of applicants cheating.
Through the years, we have witnessed how the world became more of a battleground for our survival in society. The essence of survival was determined along with several things: power, success, money, and achievements– all of which became the standard of how society works and defines a person. Relatively speaking, education these days serves the greatest importance in attaining survival and leading the world’s battlefield. As people realize its essence, many individuals have aspired to step up their game; hence, directing the spotlight to different educational institutions with credible images that produce competent and highly competitive individuals. Among these educational institutions is the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), one of the state universities in the Philippines under the free tuition law. PLM is known to produce graduates with outstanding academic credentials and who are also successful in different fields, especially in healthcare, sciences, business, engineering, and technology. According to JobStreet’s 2018 report, PLM is among the ten universities where most employers prefer to hire employees. With that in mind, being admitted to PLM can be considered quite challenging compared to other universities in the Philippines. For years, the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Admission Test or PLMAT is PLM’s standard of admitting freshmen students. Seasonally, the admission process of different universities and colleges in the Philippines was held as early as August, on the other hand, PLM usually opens its admission process during mid-October, marking the year-long admission process. For the past years, the admission process consisted of both online application through which applicants are tasked to fill up an online application form providing the necessary information being asked and physical application where applicants should submit specific documents and requirements (e.gHard copy of the generated application form, 2x2 pictures, Parents’ proof of income, and Form 137) to the university within the given application period, both are subject to verification by the PLM Office of Admission. The pandemic has disrupted and changed people’s way of living; this also applies to the admission standards and processes of various universities and colleges in the Philippines, and the PLMAT is no exception. The 2021 admission tests became a challenge to every educational institution – they must think of a new process of admitting students in their institution that can cater to all situations. The PLMAT 2021 had become the gamechanger of the PLM’s year-long standard admission. To spice everything up, the PLMAT 2021 became purely online, divergent from the physical and conventional PLMAT.Applications lasted for two months, from February 1 to March 30, 2021. The applicants were tasked to fill up an online application form and upload the necessary documents during this period. Like the previous PLMATs, the requirements are subjected to evaluation by the PLM Office of Admission; after the documents are verified, the applicants were tasked to upload their signed application form and data privacy consent form. To ensure the safety of the applicants, the PLMAT 2021 was held in the comfort of their homes.
Photo courtesy from mapodile / Getty Images
Engraved from our HeKaSi and Araling Panlipunan lessons is the pivotal year of 1521, where a series of events that transpired held great significance in affecting the flow of Philippine history. 2021 marks five hundred years since, ushering the 2021 Quincentennial Commemorations of the Philippines (QCP). With the theme “Victory and Humanity,” celebrations for our milestone in world history were held to highlight a Filipino-centric view and rethink how it is previously taught. As mandated by Executive Order No. 55, s. 2018. the National Quincentennial Committee (NQC) spearheaded the statesponsored commemorations. Specifically, 1521 was when three significant events occurred: the first recorded circumnavigation of the Earth, the introduction of Christianity in the Philippines, and the Victory at Mactan. Preparations started as early as 2018, but some events faced adjustments or were ultimately canceled due to the pandemic. However, the show must go on for the rest of the approved commemorations whilst following strict health protocols.
Photo from National Quincentennial Committee
ANGPAMANTASAN The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 41, Issue 2 • February - April 2021features05
Focus on the event came when Spanish Navy training ship Juan Sebastian Elcano arrived at the port of Cebu on Saturday morning, March 20. Arriving in the waters of Guian, Eastern Samar, where the Spanish-sponsored voyage was first sighted, a fluvial parade greeted the ship as they became witness to the unveiling of the Suluan quincentennial historical marker. One of the goals of the NQC was to reiterate that Magellan did not discover per se the Philippine archipelago but that he arrived here for exploration ‒ not colonization ‒ purposes. The same could be said in their efforts to recognize Lapulapu and his warriors with due credit, “one of the least appreciated, least studied heroes in our history,” as described by NQC member Karl Fajardo in an interview with Rappler. On the other hand, the CBCP supervised the preparation of events celebrating the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines. In recalling the first Catholic mass in the Philippines, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) marked the introduction of Christianity to our country that became the leading religion practiced by Filipinos. Surprisingly, they also addressed its roots as “both noble and ignoble, sublime and treacherous, missionary and imperialistic,” written by CBCP president Davao Archbishop Romulo Valles in his pastoral letter.People have, unfortunately, regarded history as mostly dull and insignificant. Still, one cannot hide the fact that studying Philippine history is imperative in establishing our identity and recognizing our nation as unique in its way. Of course, in a wave of therevisionismhistoricalfrombothpastandpresent, identifying factual events can be quite hard. Filipino culture has been built upon the amalgamation of subcultures scattered across our groups of islands. Yet, we are often prone to xenocentrism, which can be attributed to our long history of colonization. The commemorations are a good reminder of how the Philippines made its mark in world history and remind everyone that we had our civilization before the conquistadors came. Our ancestors, despite their differences, have come together and displayed traits that are still exhibited in our modern culture. NQC highlights The Filipino Way, subverting the Eurocentric perspective that has always painted our nation as mere “savages” before the Spaniards’ arrival ‒ something definitely needed to intensify social awareness and reignite nationalism. They are reminders that we shouldn’t describe the events of 1521 merely as the presumptuous “discovery” of the Philippines nor the “arrival” of the Magellan-led expedition; instead, it is the year that the Philippines had a part in the first circumnavigational journey and have made its mark in world history.Inline with this, Malacañang has declared 2021 as the “Year of Filipino Pre-Colonial Ancestors’’, hoping to further the Filipinocentric point of view. Main highlights of the commemorations include international webinars, the unveiling of numerous landmarks, art competitions and projects, and even a reenactment of the Victory of Mactan. With the main spotlight for the quincentennial celebrations on Lapulapu, heroism and bravery can be applied in our modernday battle against COVID-19. Assimilating his seemingly mythical persona into the reallife triumphs for freedom helps rekindle our awareness of being a Filipino and eliminates prejudices against our past. Our cooperation regarding concerned efforts appears to be our best strategy as part of the solution, and unity against a common enemy has always been a proven choice. Historical records don’t always portray what truly transpired in the past, but looking through them allows the opportunity for strengthening our pride for our ancestors and rich cultural heritage. Our pre-colonial history remains wholly uncovered due to the lack of surviving written documents that were most definitely destroyed during the Spanish conquest. However, what we know of that period has illustrated the ideals, struggles, values, and sacrifices of the past as our nation’s stepping stones in ensuring a better future. Most importantly, the 2021 QCP poses the ever-haunting question of “What does it mean to be truly Filipino?” In a time of uncertainty, celebrating Filipino victory and the humanity of the past serves as this boost that we need. Out of all lessons learned from revisiting our history, one thing’s for sure: we are generous and benevolent to our friends yet will not hesitate to fight back from those who seek to oppress us.
The pandemic has not only changed the social and cultural norms, but it has also inflicted changes into the norms for college applications and admissions. Nevertheless, PLM still aspires to produce competent and highly competitive individuals to raise our flags not just within the nation but on the world’s stage. With the norms being modified, the PLMAT 2021 are still entitled to produce an equipped individual who can fight and win on the world’s battlefield regardless of any situation. The standard had vanished, and uncertainties had arisen; however, only time will tell if the changes applied for the 2021 admissions examinations would be effective. Battleground of Amid Pandemic:
Celebrating History of the Filipino for the Filipino “Victory and Humanity”: A
I remind myself to smile above this souvenir of pain, and if this is the consequence to gaining respect and honor I shall fill my heart with pride while I bleed and drown my cry.
theunderMusingsTable sad truths and realities
II. Severance Like the little mermaid that gave up her fins I walk unsteadily, with buckling knees, it hurts to relive. Everything feels wrong, but I must stay strong, Finally‒I am chaste, sinless, beautiful, worthy! (Or atleast, according to what they believe)
Future’s eyes that still look unkindly on its survivors.
By Patricia Gabrielle Marquez Mary Jillian Y. Cristobal by Anne Nicole Carig
IV. BetrayalDivisiongreets me as the veil on my eyes were lifted: Everything is a fatal procedure for gratuitous satisfaction, shaming those who cry and scream and refuse, dictating what we must have as if they are gods‒how did the women of the past truly survive such dreadful lives? I have a voice to say no to being their useless device, That they violate my rights and yes, I was created whole and fine! That I cannot allow beauty to grow with seeds of hate and pain That the value of women owed to cutting days are long-past done.
It was as if the year was just days ago. When you heard the restless road fade into frequencies of distorted noise and clangor. It was when our heavy bodies didn’t feel too heavy, and dreaming didn’t sound too overwhelming. It was those days when the hustle was enjoyable; Now, even moving—or breathing feels uncertain.
Dust piles up, waiting for an inch of movement Skins itching for a slight warmth of touch. And even if we grow so desperate to finally see the light, another night would wear out, and these familiar areas would find us again.
The room reeks of faded memories, Disoriented with the shadows forming on the ceiling. With movie scenes of “what ifs”, whose characters of those friends, and families, and strangers we saw on the street, now fleeting in our sight.
But then come the collapse of her fortress’ walls when a reset on a fine midday came unsolicited, toplining recurring themes on all walks of life and depriving her of the taken for granted ordinaries.
V. Time’sLiberationwarm hands comforts, heals, and liberates me Now, I wish to cut off this practice that seeks to dehumanize, For nobody else to have agency on this vessel that is rightfully andminecelebrate life without cutting a part of me for others to utilize; End the cycle that traps society with misconceived notions‒Bygone notions that must be a curse, for all its worth.
III. Consequently,Death as the hands of death touches life within me Every time I see the glint of that sharp executioner, I fear‒I fear the voices that previously gave warm congratulations, I fear the eyes that linger now that devil’s tongue has left me, I fear the memories of the painful mishandling of my body. But what do I fear the most as I wallow in the aftermath?
Literar y
OutCarvingMyOwnSafeSpace
Three hundred and sixty-five days and more since long sighs and silence became a company. And here we are, laying down and surrendered; unsober in the passing sparks of hope.
I. Sacrifice From my mother, her mother, and her mother’s mother A rite of passage must be done for young flowers: The traitor daughter, urged in a room lit with frankincense is to be pricked, pierced, and sewn for penitence. Nurturing yet cold hands guide my pounding heart dread fills me, but I must mask my fears, to trust and listen
She shares the same narrative as Cinderella, except that the latter begs for a slow motion while she runs fast to catch the last ride home and turn in her paper before midnight. She gambles towards a predestined life, aimlessly conceding to a hell-bent system that hones slaves for villains and tycoons at the expense of a full-wellness turmoil.
Repetitive cycles reign on struggling parades and everyone is just trying to get past nine to five. Effective learning is highly compromised, and even sadder truths arrive to surface. Battling in this never-ending plight amounted to loud silences and drenched pillows for rags to riches only happens in fairy tales, far from the dismal realities of modern society.
Mother knows best‒ this unwanted pearl, trim away the flesh. (but why do her sad eyes turn away from me?)
She’s always built a castle on her own from shattered pieces of bones and flesh to get closer to where her heart yearns to be— to as far and high as she can reach.
The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 41, Issue 4
Kumain, tapusin ang lahat ng trabaho sa bahay at takdang gawain, naku kailangan ko pa palang maglaba, magtanong sa kaklase kung mayroon pa bang ibang dapat i-turn in, hala nakalimutan ko pala ‘yung lab report at virtual simulation na dapat kong tapusin. Busisiin kung ilang oras pa ba ang natitira, hay hapon na pala, hindi ko na natulungan si mama, tapusin ang mga notes dahil papalapit na ang pagtatapos ng Abril, na nangangahulugang papatapos na din ang asynchronous mode ng klase.
PAGBANGON A NG DIWATANG MAY KARA T U L A
Noong unang panahon, sa isang malayong kaharian, naninirahan ang tatlong kababaihang may simpleng pangarap. May isa’y may mailaman lamang sa sikmura ay ayos na, ang isa nama’y estudyanteng nagpupursigi para sa kaniyang pamilya, at ang panghuli nama’y mahilig magsulat ng mga pangyayari sa paligid. Ngunit, isang araw, sinugod ang kaharian ng isang kalabang hindi nakikita. Masyado itong malakas. At doon, sa panahong iyon, nalaman ng tatlong kababaihan kung ano ang tunay na buhay, pamilya, pag-aaral, at pati na rin ang tunay na pagkatao ng mga namumuno sa kaharian… Ako si Melchora. Ang mga naninirahan sa aming baryo ay itinuturing na ‘isang kahig isang tuka’. Nang sinugod ng kalaban ang kaharian, kami ang tunay na nagdusa. Ang mensahe ng mga nasa itaas, “huwag magpasaway, huwag lumabas.” Iyon daw ang makabubuti. Napagtanto kong kailanman ay hindi nila maiintindihan ang hapdi ng tiyan naming mga nasa laylayan. Hindi nila iyon mararamdaman. Isang araw, nabalitaan namin ang pagsulpot ng isang diwata sa karatig na kaharian. Dala raw niya ang karatulang “Kumuha ng ayon sa pangangailangan, magbigay ng ayon sa kakayahan”. Ang kariton niya’y puno ng samu’t saring gulay at iba’t ibang makakain. Wala raw itong bayad at maaaring pumila ang kung sino. Kukuha ng sasakto sa araw at magbibigay ng makakayanan. Isinagawa namin ito sa aming baryo, at naging daan ito upang bahagyang makayanan ang hirap. Kalabit din ito para sa mga nasa itaas, na sana’y gawin na ang Hindinararapat.ritonatapos ang kwento. Sa kabilang baryo, sa nasabing kaharian, may ibang aspeto ring iniinda. Ako si Gabriela, at narito na naman ang panibagong umaga. Gumising, patayin saglit ang alarm, limang minuto pa, buksan ang mobile data, ilabas ang papel at pluma, isaksak ang earphones sa tenga, pakinggan ang ini-upload na recorded lesson upang may maisagot sa mga asignatura. Eto na, isang araw na naman ang magsisimula.
Makinig sa balita habang nanunuod ng mga YouTube video na ibinahagi ni Prof sa aming OneNote channel, naku may bagong links na naman, eh ang dami ko pang aralin na nakapila, mag-sulat, mag-notes, at magtanong muli sa kaklase kung mayroon pa ba akong nakakalimutan. Kakain pa ba ako? ‘Wag na lang, pagkatapos na lang ng sanaysay at Chapter 2 revision ko. Sa wakas, sa pagsapit ng 11:59PM, siguraduhing napindot na ang “turn-in” bago humiga muli sa kama, kahit iilang minuto lamang. Kaybilis lumipas ng dalawampu’t-apat na oras. Mula sa pagsikat ng araw hanggang sa paglubog nito, tila ito’y dumadaan upang ipaalala na kami ay nakakulong sa isang siklong walang katapusan, na dulot ng isang sistemang hindi mawari kung ang aming kinabukasan ay may tinatago pang kabuluhan. Maiba man ang proyekto o asignatura, parehong pagod at manhid ang bigat nito sa aming mga kalooban. Minsa’y matutulala ka na lang din sa pagwawari kung ang mga susunod na umaga’y may pagbabago pang dala. Ngunit malapit na pala muling mag-umaga. Kailangan na namang idilat ang mga mata at umasa na ang pagsikat ng araw may bagong dala, kasabay ng panibago na namang maghapon at magdamag upang tapusin ang mga takda. Kailangang bumangon, kaysa lumubog nang tuluyan sa kumunoy at sumuko sa panahon. Gising, umaga na. Hindi pa tapos ang kwento. Ako si Josefa. Higit isang taon na rin mula nang dumating ang kalaban sa kaharian, ano na nga bang nangyari? Marso 17, 2020: Natatakot ako. Ngayon ang unang araw ng ECQ at wala ni isa ang may alam kung ano ang Oktubremangyayari.05,2020: Nalilito ako. Ano ba ang dapat maramdaman ngayong hindi na kailangan lumabas ng bahay para makapasok habang samu’t saring konsikuwensya ang dulot nito sa akin, sa mga kapwa ko estudyante, at sa mga tao sa aking paligid? Enero 01, 2021: Kapwa galit at lungkot ang nararamdaman ko. Ilang mamamayan ang sumalubong sa bagong taon na halos wala nang pagasa dahil sa patuloy na katiwaliang nangyayari sa itaas sa kabila ng mga suliranin sa pandemya? May pag-asa pa nga ba? Abril 12, 2021: Wala na akong maramdaman. Kung kabataan ang pag-asa, gayon ako ay isang pag-asa na nawawalan ng pag-asa, higit isang taon sa gitna ng pandemya. At kahit higit isang taon na, hindi pa rin tapos ang kwento
ANGPAMANTASAN The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 41, Issue 4 07
TALAAN ni Florianne Gonzales
inElecylCabalquinto niFrancescaGonzales
KWENTOKATAPUSANGWALANGISKUWENTO:
In another cycle of global renown for a Filipino athlete, the underlying issues of the Philippine sports industry have been once again brought to the headlines. The cry of Olympic Weightlifter Hidilyn Diaz for financial support from private companies and individuals during her training in 2019 was answered by a meager Php 2 million private sponsorship, revealing the lack of government support for Filipino athletes. The outdated training facilities, makeshift equipment, insufficient salaries to the team, and self-funded travel fees were among the most reported hindrances among athletes like Michael Martinez and the Philippine Paralympic swimming team members. Those who are victorious are exalted, but those who are yet striving for glory are ignored.
The pandemic challenged every individual from all walks of life, and athletes from the Philippine team were not exempt. In line with this, the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairman William Ramirez encouraged every athlete to keep guard amidst the COVID-19 situation in the Philippines and other countries from across the globe. The concern comes with the news of an alarming increase of COVID cases being monitored all over the country. Two sports complexes were placed on lockdown, with disinfection of facilities and revisions on health-security protocols carried out as well. Athletes were sent home even before the implementation of the first lockdown last year, leaving the agency’s facilities vacated. Given this situation, some of the National Sports Associations (NSAs) opted to train their athletes in venues outside PSC facilities. Aside from prohibiting athletes from training and staying in different complexes, some are being utilized as “We-Heal-as-One Centers”; Rizal Memorial Sports Complex in Manila and PhilSports in Pasig are some examples. Athletes, alongside their NSAs, are said to be given the best assistance they need. The PSC also extends their aid in getting the Reverse transcription-polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) test for an athlete’s training or competition, if required or necessary. Ramirez also reminded NSAs in urging their athletes to exercise caution during training and follow basic protocols laid out by the authorities. On the other hand, Executive Director Guillermo Iroy Jr. further instructed to implement stricter protocols and roll out a QR code-based monitoring system for better interaction or contact tracing. In these trying times, discipline and coordination are the necessary virtues everyone must possess. While the end to this crisis is still unknown, individuals are highly encouraged to follow every protocol and policy implemented to prevent the further spread of the virus, just like how the common saying goes, “prevention is better than cure.”
Photo courtesy of Philippine Sports Commission
PSC-CHEd Offers Professional Sports Education for Student-Athletes, Future Coaches, and Sports Officials
Sports The Official Student Publication of Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila Volume 41, Issue 4 • February - April 2021 ANG PAMANTASAN
program has multiple implications for the sports industry. The Department of Education Chairman De Vera stated that university linkages between Philippine and top foreign universities were funded to ensure that sports education is benchmarked with international standards. An example of this includes the partnership of UP CHK with the Universidad Catolica de Murcia in Spain under the Human Movement Science: A Model for Sustainability (HuMS) Project.”
Never
CHARYLL JOAN PASCUA
The Philippine Olympic boxing team has also had their fair share of encountered challenges as they gear up for the meet: 29-year-old boxer Nesthy Petecio of Davao del Sur not only had a tough Olympic preparation due to the pandemic but also with the passing of her best friend five months before the Games. 25-year-old Eumir Felix Marcial, on the other hand, is also still recovering from his brother’s sudden death in October last year. But instead of being overwhelmed by their grief, these boxers utilize their sorrowful encounters as motivation to win in the upcoming Olympics and make their departed loved ones proud. Petecio and Macial had been preparing for the Olympics in Calamba, Laguna with the rest of the team, namely Irish Magno and Carlo Paalam, before heading to Thailand earlier this year for the delegates’ final preparations.For the Philippines and the rest of the world, the 32nd edition the Olympic Games has become one of the most controversial in all of the Olympics ever held due to the presence of COVID-19. Because only a few realize that the quadrennial event is no longer just participation in the celebration of how sports can unite the world, it now serves as a statement‒ that despite the abrupt touches of melancholy we face, despite the unforeseen circumstances that halt our plans, we find ways to rise, and that we finish strong. And so, we entrust all our hopes to our Filipino Olympic athletes what they communicate to the world amidst this pandemic: never losing momentum.
The establishment of state-ofthe-art training facilities with updated equipment and sports rehabilitation education and facilities are a must to reinvigorate the sports education and industry. Another implication would be bringing non-mainstream sports in focus with the proper support of homegrown sport education coaches instead of outsourcing foreign coaches. Lastly, sports education would allow universities outside the “Big 4” to procure talented student-athletes who possess the potential to become commercialized, national, or international athletes, as well as producing gifted coaches who are licensed and well-versed in various sports knowledge. Sports, along with science, have been part of the catalyst for human evolution‒ and it is with better sports education, Filipinos will persist in overcoming human limits. Logical-mathematical intelligence as the sole basis for success is no longer applicable with the establishment of multiple intelligences. With proper education and support, the Philippine sports community, currently saturated with bodilykinesthetic intelligence, will soon flourish as the hotspot of skilled players, talented coaches, and an international ground for sports competition.
PSC COVID-19keepassociationsathletesremindsandtoguardonthreat ALLESANDRA FRIANELA
Japan offered Jaja Santiago to change her citizenship for her skill in volleyball, yet she declined for the sake of patriotism. However, not everyone was lucky in their circumstances to decline: Wesley So, Django Bustamante, and Alex Pagulayan were among Filipinoborn athletes who later changed their nationalities for the sake of having the opportunity to hone theirThesetalent. were longstanding issues acknowledged by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC). In response, the PSC formed a partnership with the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) to integrate a united professional sports education curriculum, incorporating scientific coaching, sports research, and grassroot sports. The Memorandum of Agreement was signed by CHEd Chairman Prospero De Vera III and PSC Chairman William Ramirez in March 2021. This partnership aims to cultivate homegrown athletes and coaches who excel in amateur, professional, and national team levels and provide professional support to avoid “athlete piracy” by foreign teams. This partnership aims to solidify sports education courses such as sports science and physical education, especially for aspiring coaches. The PSC CHEd hopes that the sports program would flourish just as art degrees amidst stereotypical biases of science versus art programs. Also, under this partnership, training for short-term certificate programs like coaching, sports event management, sports medicine, and management of sports facilities will be launched. The introduction of a professional sports development
Losing Momentum
ALEXANDRA SARMIENTO
Every four years since 1896, except during World Wars I and II, the most exceptional athletes of the world gather to compete in the Olympics. The quadrennial meet is regarded as the most prestigious athletic event, and preparations for qualifications would begin almost as soon as the previous Olympic season ends. Conditioning for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, however, is immensely more difficult than usual as the occurrence of the COVID-19 set more obstacles to these athletes. Our Filipino Olympic contenders are not exempted from these restrictions‒but if there’s one quality that sets them apart from the rest of the Olympic medal aspirants, it is that they are ever more persistent under more significant pressure with less than three months away from the much-anticipated Games. As some delegates from the 206 participating nations backed out from the 2020 Olympics due to COVID-19 restrictions, 2016 Rio Olympics silver medalist Hidilyn Diaz continues to prove that not even a pandemic can stop her from attaining that long-coveted gold. The 30-year old weightlifter from Zamboanga has always been open about her 2020 Olympic preparation struggles due to the global epidemic. She shared that it was difficult to be locked down in Malaysia. She was away from family with no place to stay and no proper training facility until the people she considered “Godsent” provided her with a place to resume her training. Hidilyn will attempt to lift our flag on the most glorious podium spot in the 55kg event in women’s weightlifting.
Photo courtesy of Commission on EducationHigher
