Aquinian Herald (Volume II, Issue 1) by Aquinian Herald

HERALD AQ U I N I A N

The Official Student Publication of Aquinas University of Legazpi

IN COMMUNION. Rev Fr. Roberto Reyes, O.P., Vice Rector for Religious Affairs, welcomes the Aquinian community during the Mass of the Holy Spirit on June 21, 2013 at the AUL Dome. PHOTO BY ROMEO L. DIESTA

Aquinas welcomes changes

Member, College Edit or s' G uild of t he Philippines (CEG P)

Academic Year 2013-2014| June-October | VOLUME II | NO. 1

Offers milestone Pharma course By Zarra P. Escurel THE Dominican University of Bicol now offers Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy, a first in the region, boosting the Bicolano educational field. Partnering with top Philippine university, the University of Santo Tomas (UST), AUL opened the new medical course under the College of Nursing and Health Sciences (CNHS) this academic year.

course, lifting the sagging enrolment rates of CNHS. It is now more convenient for Bicolanos who would want to pursue the four-year board course. Instead of studying outside the region, students may opt The school also hopes, in

turn, that eventually it will be able to fill the demand for pharmacists in the region.

Upgrading facilities, faculty The university prepared for the opening of the Pharmacy program not only

Since the start of the 2013 summer term, the needed facilities and equipment were prepared for the new program. Rooms in St. Martin de Porres building saw the most renovation—reconstruction of ordinary lecture rooms into chemistry laboratories. Meanwhile, supplies of laboratory instruments and apparatus were acquired to fit the necessities of the incoming Pharmacy students.

Since last year, Aquinas University has embarked on a promotional campaign to encourage prospective students to enrol in the new course. As a result, the population of the pioneering batch of enrollees exceeded expectations. A total of 90 freshmen enrolled in the

in terms of documentary requirements but also in terms of investment in the upgrading of facilities.

AQUINIAN PIONEERS. CNHS freshmen attend a class as the first batch of Pharmacy majors in Aquinas and in Bicol. PHOTO BY ROMEO L. DIESTA JR.

Aside from new facilities, a roster of new faculty members was also sought. UST professors were commissioned to teach the students in their major subjects every weekend.

special report:

Gov't challenges AUL: meet international standards By Aaron Marc M. Dimaano

Are Aquinas University and its graduates ready to go head-to-head in a more competitive economy come 2015? This was the question posed to the Aquinian community by representatives from the Bureau of Export Trade Promotion (BFTP) under the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) national office during a talk on the liberalization of trade in South East Asia on September 26, 2013 at the Daragang Magayon Hall. Highlighting how the AUL campus looks ready to attract foreign students, the government reps encouraged the university to further

inside

this issue:

improve its standards to meet international benchmarks and come out on top with tough economic challenges ahead. Assistant Director Nestor Palabyab, Officer-in-Charge of the Philippine Trade Training Center, gave an overview over the different Philippines Free Trade Areas (FTAs) especially the upcoming economic integration of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) which the country is part of. Called the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), the framework entails the removal of all major barriers to trade between the participating economies by year 2015.

This means that labor from other ASEAN countries like Vietnam, Indonesia or Thailand, like their nurses, doctors and teachers, can easily come to the Philippines and work here without trade restrictions. The same applies for Filipino workers wanting to go to other ASEAN countries. What this implies, according to Palabyab, is that Filipinos must be able to produce the best graduates for them to compete successfully in the market where it’s no longer just between fellow Filipinos but against other ASEAN citizens, too, fighting for job opportunities.

GOV'T CHALLENGES, PAGE 5

News

Accountancy senior is Ms. Bicolandia 2013

News PAGE 4

AQUINAS OFFERS, PAGE 2

Revamps, renames offices By Ralph Erik B.Bermas

(CEAFA).

IN LINE with its continuing organizational development, Aquinas University has renamed several of its offices as it reorganizes the bureaucracy.

The newly organized ORPD, which is under the Office of the Rector and President (ORP), is headed by its new director, Mr. Christian E. Rivero. This office replaces the ARB and takes over the bureau’s tasks regarding research in the university. At the same time, the office also deals with the university’s strategic planning and the consolidation of institutional plans.

Starting the academic year of 2013 to 2014, the Academic Research Bureau (ARB) will now be the Office of Research, Planning and Development (ORPD). In turn, the office of the Secretary-General has been removed.

OGT, on the other hand, is still headed by OAGP director Maja Francisco. The office handles the guidance and counseling, as well as psychometric services for the Aquinian community.

The Office of Assessment, Guidance and Placement (OAGP), meanwhile, has been renamed as the Office of Guidance and Testing (OGT). Similarly, the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) is now the Office of Student Services (OSS), and the Polytechnic Institute is now the College of Engineering, Fine Arts and Architecture

A clearer message A more notable name change this year is with one AUL REVAMPS, PAGE 5

SA scholar shines in ABS-CBN contest

Takes runner-up plum By Jesus L. Dawal, Jr. AN AQUINIAN scholar who dreams someday to be an accomplished broadcaster notched her first big break with a podium finish in the region’s largest news broadcasting competition.

was the champion of the university-level newscasting competition earning her the spot to participate at the regionals. The SA program is a scholarship grant given to students who are willing to render service hours to the university.

AB Communication sophomore Queenie Hipolito raised the banner of Aquinas University when she won first runner-up in the 2nd Newscasting Competition Finals conducted by major television network ABS-CBN on August 24 at Tent Avenue Plaza Hotel in Naga City.

The competition required the participants to deliver news in three language categories: English, Filipino, and Bikol. Additionally, the contestants were also tasked to broadcast a live news report during one of ABSCBN Bicol’s news programs.

Hipolito, who is a scholar under the Student Assistantship (SA) program,

Aquinian crowned as RJPIA PAGE 5 Goodwill ambassador

Feature

Hipolito said she trained hard to be fluent in Bikol. “Many are good in

Drama, Pop and the Korean wave PAGE 10 in the Philippines

English and Filipino, and I suppose I’m fine with those languages. Bikol is what I would like to master; I think it will be a critical factor in the competition,” she said going into the competition. During the finals, a total of fourteen colleges and universities from all over the Bicol Region vied for the championship. Close match Despite falling short of the top prize, Hipolito matched Bicol University’s Sheina Alicante, who was adjudged as champion, with the latter winning over the

Sports

SA SCHOLAR, PAGE 5

Vipers, Guardians, Knights and PAGE 16 Frontrunners clash

The Official Student Publication of the Aquinas University of Legazpi

CEAFA soars to win AQ Fashion Show 2013

By Rona Maricar C. Miña

DONNING WINGS and avian-inspired attires, the College of Engineering, Architecture and Fine Arts (CEAFA) championed over the other colleges in the Fashion Show competition during the University Acquaintance Party on

August 20, 2013 at the AUL Dome. The show, themed “Fashion of the Wild, Battle of the Fiercest”, was part of the party set to culminate the 2013 Organization Days. At the end of the night, CEAFA was proclaimed the champion with CNHS as

first runner-up. Meanwhile, CBMA and CASE were tied at third place. In the event, the four colleges were tasked to showcase fashion and creations relating or representing their selected animal theme. CEAFA had birds, the College of Nursing

and Health Sciences (CNHS) with snakes, the College of Business Management and Accountancy (CBMA) chose cats, and the College of Arts, Sciences and Education (CASE) got fishes. Each college also integrated a production number and an audio-visual presentation during their segment.

Show of creativity

FASHIONABLY FIERCE. Models from the different colleges showcase beauty and fashion in this composite photo during the Acquaintance Party on August 20, 2013. PHOTO BY ROMEO L. DIESTA

Last year’s champion CBMA employed a light show during their dance number and their models strutted their stuff in largely figurehugging black attire that evoked sensuality and sexiness. Some of the models wore body paint and accentuated their hair to evoke their feline theme. Their male models also showcased their

Graduate school, ORPD host research seminar-writeshop Features lecturer from University of Michigan By Alfred Robert Babasoro

STRENGTHENING THE cooperation between the two, the Aquinas University Graduate School (GS) and the Office of Research, Planning and Development (ORPD) conducted a three-day, two-part seminar-writing workshop on enhancing research capabilities on June 13 and 14, and July 13, 2013. ORPD Director Christian Rivero explained that, “the training was conducted in line with the university’s aspiration of boosting the research culture within the AUL community by helping Aquinian researchers learn how to improve, repackage

Aquinas offers... FROM PAGE 1

High enrolment numbers Initially, the Pharmacy program was in part designed to help boost the population of CNHS. Dean Vicente B. Peralta, RN, MSN stated that new course offering was in response to the decreasing number of CNHS students. A four-year decline of enrolees in the Nursing program prompted the college to open a new program.

As advertisements of UST and AUL opening a Pharmacy

and polish research proposals for funding and implementation.” On June 13, the first day of the seminar-writeshop, five topics were discussed in line with the theme, “Strengthening the Research Process.” The lectures covered a variety of topics including the research agenda discussed by Rivero; research process or problem identification by professor Nico M. Ravanilla from the University of Michigan; theoretical and conceptual frameworks of the study by Dr. Edith Rebecca S. Regino; and, quantitative

research methodologies, and operationalizing indicators both by professor Lalaine M. Valladolid. On the second day, June 14, the focus was on the research proposal making. Lectures on five topics were shared by Dr. Celerino P. Palacio on qualitative research methodologies; professor Milagros Atutubo on ethics in research; professor Simon Listana on report writing, editing and formatting; Dr. Susan G. Bobadilla on research advising or critiquing; and, Rivero on research incentives.

On July 13, eight research proposals from the different departments were successfully introduced as outputs of the seminarwriteshop. The titles of the proposals and their proponents were: Student Perception of School Connectedness,

seminar-writeshop

GRADUATE SCHOOL, PAGE 3

program began rolling out, people also started inquiring about the program. At first, CNHS had expected about eighty enrolees in the first semester.

same number of students in 2014.

difficulty in their Chemistry subjects. She did add, however, that many have been excelling in their other major subjects.

But as the semester started, CNHS welcomed a total of ninety enrolees in the new program. The new addition was remarkable as the Pharmacy program now contributes to almost half the total college population.

An additional boon, the current crop of students, as the pioneering batch, is also exposed to the standards of UST education; the same standards AUL hopes to establish across its different courses. This means a more challenging academic environment for the students.

By far, the current batch of Pharmacy students even outnumbers every level of the nursing students. And according to CNHS, they are still expecting at least the

The

did not just offer lectures; the event also entailed participants to come up with research proposals based on their learning. Their proposals would be presented during part two of the event.

Higher standards education

Professor Maridel N. Santos, RPh, who supervises the two blocks, stated that most students are having

But Chemistry is considered a usual waterloo for most students studying the course encounter. Yet even then, Chemistry is important to master as it is still regarded as the backbone of Pharmacy. “If from the start you are not going to adjust, learn, comply with the basics of Pharmacy, you will not be able to survive,” Santos attested. According

the

chiselled bodies as leopardskin printed cloaks draped on their backs driving the crowd to cheer.

CASE, which landed as runner-up last year, enchanted the crowd with their underwater-inspired set-up and attire, promising a show of creativity. Their male models were painted blue all over and helped the female models in taking the stage. Their female models, on the other hand, appeared in unique headdresses that attempted to showcase different aquatic creatures, from sea horse to swordfish; octopus to goldfish. Meanwhile, CNHS incorporated an Indian dance into their performance. Their

poker-faced and confident models walked the runway in flowing dresses, gowns and dapper suits mostly colored or outlined with different shades of green, which worked for their forest and viper theme. Some of CNHS’ models were also of apparent mixed or foreign lineage which created an international accent on their presentation, but all models had a golden faux snake creation coiled around an arm to add to their impact.

Brought the house down Then CEAFA started their presentation with a CEAFA SOARS, PAGE 4

CNHS volunteers shares some love in 'Kapamilya Fun Run' By Zarra P. Escurel SHOWING DEDICATION to their craft, Aquinian nursing majors volunteered their medical knowledge and time to support a fun run for a good cause. On August 9, 2013, College of Nursing and Health Sciences (CNHS) students took part in the ‘Kapamilya Fun Run’ organized by major television network ABSCBN at Embarcadero de Legazpi and along the coastal road in Brgy. Puro, Legazpi City. But the student volunteers from Aquinas University didn’t run, instead they served as members of the medical team which was on duty since the start of the race at 5am. The event was organized for the benefit of Bantay Bata 163 – Bicol. Bantay Bata 163 is a notable charity arm by the ABS-CBN foundation catering to the protection, care and rescue of abused or neglected children. Seeing the benefit of the event and through the invitation of Mae Camposano, Bantay Bata 163 – Bicol Officer-inCharge, eight students from program’s faculty, the initial group of ninety students is seen as promising and are already adjusting with the demands of the program. As a board course, their preparation starts as early as their first year. Pharmacy freshman, Rachel Razo shared her challenging time studying the

the Saludamay Volunteer Organization (SVO) served as medics. As members of the medical team, they gave water and provided medical assistance to the runners. Being volunteer medics, the students were told to anticipate different medical crises that could occur. Faith Raphaelle A. Barcelon (4 BSN), one of the volunteers, shared, “You’re part of the medical team, but you don’t want someone to get hurt.” Beforehand, SVO adviser, Anecia L. Bailon, RN, MAN, chose the volunteers based on their knowledge, skills, and attitude. Most of the chosen students have been volunteers since their freshman year. But aside from medical assistance, the volunteers were also on hand to show moral support. Deanna G. Asuncion, senior nursing major, said that when they were not assisting, they were cheering and encouraging the runners to reach the finish line. The fun run did need all the help it could get. An estimated 500 runners. ■

course. Her dilemma lies, she said, in improving her study habits, and adjusting to the fast-paced lessons and the type of tests given to them. “Pharmacy is a really hard program. But as long as you devote time to study it, you are sure to succeed,” enthused Razo. ■

The Official Student Publication of the Aquinas University of Legazpi

Aquinian Herald, two other orgs sign FOI manifesto Join national youth lobby THE BATTLE for its passage has taken years in the Philippine Congress; now Aquinian organizations have joined in the fight, uniting with other youth groups to see the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill finally become a law.

reflective of the youth agenda.

Aquinian Herald (AQH), Aquinas University Debate Society (AQDS) and Aquinas University Political Science Students Association (AUPSSA) joined the FOI Youth Initiative (FYI) and signed a manifesto July this year, advocating the passage of the FOI bill in the sixteenth Congress.

Dimaano, Aquinian Herald associate editor, was one of the delegates who submitted a bill. His proposed law, entitled Good Governance Act of 2013, was able to clear the committee level and was sent to plenary for deliberation.

The FYI is a network of youth organizations from all over the country who collectively lobby for FOI. Composed of about 135 groups of students and the youth, the network has members from major universities across the country.

Dimaano’s bill proposed the creation of local councils in different cities and provinces that will look into whether local governments are doing their job. These peoples’ councils will eventually give local governments a failing or passing

AQH, AQDS and AUPSSA have called on other Aquinian organizations to join FYI. In turn, newly-accredited University-Based Organization, ProDigi Creatives, declared their intent to support the FOI advocacy.

YOUTH LEADER. Senior Aaron Dimaano (inset) defends his bill before fellow Filipino youth leaders at the 2nd Philippine Model Congress at the Senate of the Philippines. PHOTO COURTESY OF PMC

PolSci majors go to Senate for youth congress IN A weekend like no other, close to 500 youth leaders from across the country experienced what it felt like to be a senator or congressperson of the Republic, even meeting and debating in the actual halls of the Senate. In this field of hundreds, four political science students from Aquinas University held their own representing their respective provinces during the second Philippine Model Congress (PMC) on July 27 and 28, 2013 at the Philippine Senate in Pasig City. In the event, the four Aquinians

Graduate school... FROM PAGE 2

School Climate and School Engagement as Predictors of Resilience in School by the Office of Guidance and Testing; Gap Analysis of Acquired and Required Competencies of CBMA Graduates by the College of Business Management and Accountancy; Phenomenon of Burnout Among AUL Academic Employees by the College of Arts, Sciences and Education; Behavioral Pattern of Students with Absentee Parents by the Aquinas University Integrated High School; Effects of Boarding House Habitation on Student’s Growth and Development by GS; Reconstructing Religious Education in Instruction along the Preference of R.E. Students by the Office of Religious Affairs; A Design of a Mechanical Variable Pressure Control Mechanism for an Indirectly Pumped Rainwater Harvesting System by the College of Engineering, Architecture and Fine Arts; and, Competency-Based Assessment of AQ Nursing Ladder Program by the College of Nursing and Health Sciences. Fifty participants from the different departments of the university signed up for the event. However, only 38 were able to complete the training. ■

were able to participate in congressional debates and workshops. Seniors Fritzie Monilla, Joseph Paolo Rima and sophomore Patrick Joseph Estillomo represented the province of Albay. Meanwhile, fellow senior Aaron Marc Dimaano represented Sorsogon province. The model congress allowed its delegates to submit bills, debate them in smaller committees and later make the final vote in the larger plenary session where everyone is gathered. The bills which are crafted by the student leaders are seen as

POLSCI MAJORS, PAGE 5

The Aquinian organizations, as part of FYI, have also agreed to a joint declaration entitled, “Youth Manifesto for the Passage of the Freedom of Information Law in the 16th Congress.” Parts of the manifesto touched on the general principles of their advocacy calling for greater transparency and accountability in government. The document also stated the importance of FOI in curbing corruption and promoting participatory governance. “We are in solidarity with different sectors of society in the clamor for more solid mechanisms that enable governance that is open and honest to the people,” the youth manifesto declared. Recently, FOI advocates achieved a political victory as President Benigno Aquino III finally made FOI a priority measure; boosting the chances of the passage of the law. Nonetheless, the youth network continues to conduct other activities to raise awareness and muster greater support for their cause. FYI vows not to stop its lobbying efforts until the fight has been won. ■

Accountancy senior crowned Ms. Bicolandia 2013 She won this year’s Mutya ng Ibalong crown, and now she’s also Miss Bicolandia 2013.

placed in other pageants as well as Mutya ng Magayon second runnerup, Cagsawa Festival Queen first runner-up, Mutya ng Tabac first runner-up and Mutya ng Polang Angui first runner-up.

Angelica Mae Ventura Corbe (4 BSA), a student of Aquinas University, brought home the crown for Ms. Bicolandia 2013 beauty pageant held on September 11, 2013 at the Jesse M. Robredo Colliseum in Naga City.

Aside from Corbe, two other Aquinians joined the pageant. They were fourth runner-up Katheline Mae Lausinco, a Tourism Management major, and Carmela Diane Doma, a communication student.

Corbe, 19, representing Legazpi City, won the title over a field of twenty beautiful ladies all vying for the crown of what is touted as the most prestigious pageant in the region. Aside from being Ibalong and Bicolandia queen, Corbe has

BICOL'S MOST BEAUTIFUL. Angelica Corbe (4 BSA) is crowned Miss Bicolandia 2013 . PHOTO COURTESY OF JOJO PRIETO

The Miss Bicolandia beauty pageant is part of the annual Peñafrancia Festival celebration in Naga City. ■

AQDS forges closer ties with BU debaters AQUINAS UNIVERSITY Debate Society (AQDS), seen as the leading debate organization in Albay, marked closer ties with debaters from Bicol University (BU) this year.

and 19 2013, Dimaano went back to BU, this time, as part of the panel of adjudicators for the University Debate Championship as part of its BU Week festivities.

Aside from helping out BUbased debaters in their training, AQDS has also provided judges to adjudicate in different debate competitions in the state university.

But the Aquinian debaters not only helped determine the winners in the competitions, they were also on hand to provide constructive criticism and tips to the budding BU debaters.

On August 27, 2013, Aquinian debaters and AQDS co-founders Roger Abitria IV (4 ABEL) and Aaron Marc Dimaano (4 ABPS) were invited as judges in the BU College of Nursing (BUCN) Debate Festival held at the BUCN Auditorium, Legazpi City. Abitria has served as chief judge of the annual debating event since 2010. Meanwhile, on September 18

Before and after the contests, debaters from BUCN and the BU College of Arts and Letters (BUCAL) were welcomed by AQDS in Aquinas University as they requested to train with the Aquinians. AQDS members willingly clashed with the BU debaters in practice

matches to help them improve. “I hope there would be more opportunities for us to crosstrain with other debaters here in Albay. It would really be great to have a debating community here,” said Abitria.

BUCN team captain Nicole Pilapil also hoped for future cooperation, expressing the possibility of creating their own university debate organization in BU before the school year ends. ■

Meanwhile, the BU-based debaters and organizers were grateful for the help of AQDS.

PARTNERS. In an effort to build bridges, Aquinian debaters Roger Abitria IV (middle) and Aaron Dimaano (right) judge competitions at the Bicol University PHOTO BY BUCN-SC

4 OGT offers life coaching talk

The Official Student Publication of the Aquinas University of Legazpi

AUL-JPIA wins big in reg'l confab Aquinian crowned as 'Goodwill Ambassador'

By Marisse M. Francia WITH THEIR aim to boost self-confidence and instill positive thoughts for the improvement of students’ self-esteem, the Office of Guidance and Testing (OGT) conducted the Life Coaching Seminar on August 24, 2013. Life coaching is a discipline that integrates mentoring, counselling, therapy and other tools to help people achieve personal goals and essentially make their lives better in whatever situation they find themselves in. The seminar featured Ma. Francia Sazon, the main speaker, who discussed the six A’s to life coaching which relate to one’s psychological needs, discovering emotional bondages, the thinking traps that may have positive or negative outcomes. Sazon also tackled positive psychology and developing positive thoughts. She also prepared confidence building activities. Interested students had to enlist themselves in order for them to join the seminar which was a first-come, firstserved basis. However, only a few ended up attending due to schedule conflicts with another activity, the Integration of Faith and Recollection, a compulsory event. ■

AUL holds annual Operation Tuli By Vianne J. Hermida

IT’S THE quintessential rite of passage for Filipino boys, said to usher them from childhood into puberty – circumcision, and Aquinas University leads the way in providing it free. Traditionally done in summer, AUL Clinic, in collaboration with Aquinas University Hospital and Saludamay Volunteers’ Organization (SVO), conducted its annual “Operation Tuli” on May 27, 2013.

GOODWILL AMBASSADORS. Accountancy majors Christopher Miras and Angela Acuña model festival attire in this composite photo for the RJPIA pageant.. PHOTOS COURTESY OF NJPIA-REGION V

By Karen Daniele Besmonte, Rona Maricar C. Miña and Archie Ner AQUINAS UNIVERSITY’S local chapter of Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (JPIA) came out winning as it met with other Bicolano accountancy students in the 14th Regional Mid-Year Convention (RYMC) of JPIA on September 27 to 28, 2013 in different venues in Legazpi City. Showcasing talents, AUL-JPIA emerged as the overall champion in the non-academic category of contests. Aquinians won the top prizes in the Literary, Video-Making, Musical and Dance or LITVIMUSDA Competitions. Angelica Estrada won the top prize in photojournalism, while in the logo making contest, Aamiel Hermoso’s two entries won first and second. Also, Maricel Carel and Mark Lorcha triumphed in the poster making contest

over other schools. Meanwhile, Hannah Lyn Boragay won first place in Vocal Solo. Boragay later partnered with Davy Jones Chato to win gold in the Vocal Duet. The AUL contingent also notched up another victory in the USAD Music Video Making Contest. Jelica Perdigon, Jhoana Marie De Jesus, Maria Eda Gladys Balaoro and Carmi Jacela Barbacena were announced as the winners in the Dance Contest. But the highlight of the RMYC was the coronation of the Mr. and Ms. Ambassador of Goodwill (AOG) Bicolandia 2013. Showcasing his brawn and brains, accountancy junior Christopher James Miras bested four other male students from Divine Word

College of Legazpi, Bicol University, University of Saint Anthony and University of Nueva Caceres to win Mr. AOG Bicolandia 2013 crown. Miras also won the Mr. Blackwater, Mr. Photogenic and People’s Choice Award. On the other hand, AUL’s bet for the women’s category, freshman Angela Camille Acuña won Best in Corporate Attire and Long Gown. Unfortunately, Acuña did not win the top prize. Miras will be heading to the Nationals this October in Palawan province, where he will vie for the Philippine title representing the entire Bicol Region. The Aquinians who competed were earlier selected during the annual JPIA Olympics or JPIAlympics held on August 23 to 24, 2013 at the Aquinas University grounds. ■

CBMA welcomes newbies with 'Burunyagan' By Karen Daniele Besmonte

THE COLLEGE of Business Management and Accountancy – Student Council (CBMA-SC) held a welcoming activity to greet first year and transferee students on August 14, 2013 at the Daragang Magayon Hall. The event called “Burunyagan”, an annual tradition by the college, saw an estimated 150 students

participating in the afternoon event.

me-a-picture stations.

This year’s welcoming rites, cohosted by CBMA’s six college-based organizations, featured ten stations the freshmen could visit. The booths or stops were the Seasoning, Veggie Shakie, Powder, Mud-crawling, Simon Says, Pop-it Balloon, Mathematical Problems, Doctor Quack, Tilapia, and Paint-

According to the organizers, the activity was designed to build camaraderie and sportsmanship among the participants. The organizers also plan to make the welcoming rites an regular annual event. ■

CEAFA soars... FROM PAGE 2

graphics-heavy audio-visual presentation. Their female models wore feathered and winged tops and jean shorts or skirts. The male models meanwhile wore jean pants and wore nothing on top other than their wings.

Both male and female models each took t h e i r moment to pose at the end of runway, w h i c h SHOWSTOPPER. CEAFA saves a peacockroused the

inspired creation for last that brought the house down during the Acquaintance Party on Aug. 20, 2013 at the AUL Dome. PHOTO BY ROMEO L. DIESTA

audience, approving of the confidence and fierceness of the models. Among the four colleges, CEAFA proved to be the best at the end of the night as it brought the house down with a much-applauded ending –a large cage opening up and revealing a female model all dressed in white, donning a ball gown and eventually pulling up a massive white feathery tail similar to a peacock’s. The performance of CEAFA was much to the surprise and delight of the audience.

Operation Tuli extends knowledge to the public regarding the advantages and purposes of pagpapatatak or circumcision. Boys as young as nine years were also eligible to avail the circumcision services free. Before the surgery, a pre-screening was done to determine deserving participants from May 23 to 25 at the AUL Clinic. Out of the original 50 boys, 24 passed. Eventually, 22 boys showed up in the event and

availed of the health service. The medical team leading the operation included Dr. Michael M. Navera, a former faculty of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences and University nurses Roslin P. Adra, RN and Jefferson Blanquisco, RN. They were also assisted by members of SVO. Adra shared, “[It is] an outreach program for the adopted barangays of AUL and an extension of Aquinian health care.” This advocacy for free circumcision service and increased health awareness was started a decade and a half ago by Dr. Walter Jalgalado in 1999. After, AUL Clinic made it a yearly program to cater to the community. Circumcision, according to the World Health Organization, is also noted as helpful in minimizing the increasing rate of HIV/ AIDS. ■

Student counselors talk friendship in seminar By Marisse M. Francia HOW DOES one really know who to trust as genuine friends nowadays? It’s a tough question to answer in a time when it’s very easy to add ‘friends’ on Facebook, but one that a student counseling organization hopes to answer in a recent lecture. To differentiate a real friend from a fake one was the main objective in the pioneering “Friends or Foes Seminar” held by the Peer Counselors Organization (PCO) on August 16, 2013 at the Daragang Magayon Hall. The seminar had Bicol University guidance counselor Rosario Frick, formerly of Aquinas University, as the main

Hardwork, Pride It proved a sweet victory for CEAFA who ranked last in last year’s fashion show. “We didn’t expect the victory because we know that the other colleges were also good. It felt really great that all our hardwork was worth it,” said Ryan Francis Calleja (4 BSCE), one of the male models from CEAFA. According to Anna Margarita Bichara (3 BSArch), Vice President of CEAFA Student Council, all of their models’ attire were made by students themselves led by the Fine Arts majors. “I’m so proud of what we’ve

speaker for the seminar. She gave pieces of advice to the students about true friendship and how they will know who among their friends are real and who are not. Frick also talked about the different kinds of friends that one could have which are the real friends, the ‘frienemies’ or friendenemies, and the friends with benefits. She also touched on acquaintances. The seminar was among the line-up of events that took place during the threeday celebration of this year’s Organization Days. Opened to all interested students, many had come to attend the friendship seminar. ■

been able to accomplish,” Bichara added. The Supreme Student Council in cooperation with the four college councils organized the annual Acquaintance Party. This year’s acquaintance party was initially set on an earlier date though, but was postponed because of a massive traffic jam that forced the provincial government of Albay to cancel classes. However during the reset date a downpour threatened the event again but it did push through at 7pm and ended before midnight. ■

The Official Student Publication of the Aquinas University of Legazpi

AUL revamps... FROM PAGE 1

of the four colleges of the university. PI becomes CEAFA in order to emphasize and promote the courses offered by the department. Engr. Javier Vicera, Dean of CEAFA, stated that the renaming of the college was tackled in their Operational Planning with Fr. Ernesto Arceo, AUL Rector and President. During the meeting it was discussed that PI as a name was unclear and too broad and people always wondered what courses were being offered by the department. As answer to the problem, the PI faculty members convened

and arrived with a short list of three names. The choices were first, College of Engineering and Architecture; second, College of Engineering, Architecture, Fine Arts and Computer Science (CEAFACS); and third, College of Engineering, Architecture and Fine Arts (CEAFA).

Government-mandated change

Vicera said that Fr. Arceo eventually approved “CEAFA” owing to its definiteness and its emphasis on the different fields of study catered by the college.

Barizo explained that based on CHED Memorandum Order No. 9, series of 2013, all offices concerning the welfare and development of students including institutional services for them, should be consolidated under an Office of Student Affairs and Services.

The CEAFA Dean further shared that the Aquinian community can expect an increase of population for the college because people are now more aware of their course offerings aside from also being more appealing.

A more substantial change is the restructuring of OSA to OSS. According to OSS director Jesus Barizo, the transformation was mandated by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

Additionally, CHED prescribed the office to concentrate on the fulfillment of every student’s full potential with focus on the student’s personal and leadership

development through various institutional and student-initiated activities. Eventually, the final name of the office dropped the word “affairs” to put more emphasis on the provision of services to students. According to the OSS director, his office aims to provide every Aquinian the basic services and programs which will promote their

SA scholar... FROM PAGE 1 Aquinian with only 0.03-difference in percentage points. Meanwhile, Partido State University’s Kimwel Joseph Buetinezon won third place. Hipolito admitted that when she heard the results and realized how close she was in nailing the competition, she was initially disappointed. “I kept thinking that I could’ve added something to my introduction, or projected myself better in the middle part of my delivery, or perhaps I should’ve smiled during my extro,” she shared. But overall she was glad and grateful for the competition’s outcome. “When I went up there [during the finals], in plain sight of everyone, I immediately felt that I was born for this,” the communication sophomore said with pride.

BIRTHDAY SELFIE. AUL Rector and President, Rev. Fr. Ernesto Arceo , O.P. , takes his own picture or "selfie" with a tablet to the delight of well-wishers during his birthday on July 23, 2013. PHOTO BY ROMEO L. DIESTA

Guidance office welcomes newbies, parents anew By Patricia Monique B. Romero

IN REACHING out to new students and their parents alike, the Office of Guidance and Testing (OGT) spearheaded the welcoming and orientation rites to open the semester. On June 21, 2013, OGT conducted university orientation seminars for freshmen and transferees. The welcoming rites were held concurrently at Media Center Hall and Daragang Magayon Hall. Six days later, the guidance office held the Personal Effectiveness and Mission Program (PEMP) seminar at the Thomas Building, this time to cater to parents. The student orientation served as Aquinas University’s main briefing to new students. Speakers

PolSci majors...

FROM PAGE 3

mark similar to what happens in school. “I was inspired by the late Jesse Robredo in his advocacy for good governance. I’m extremely happy that I was also able to share to many fellow youth leaders this advocacy,” Dimaano shared. The Good Governance bill was one of only four bills that were passed in the plenary session and subsequently approved into “law.” According to the organizers, all the submitted and approved bills

discussed the general school policies and other must-knows for students to help them adapt to their new environment in AUL. This ended with a campus tour which aimed to students familiar with the different buildings, offices, and rooms in the university. The new Aquinians were also informed about the university’s commitment to disaster preparedness. Office of Student Services Director Jesus Barizo was on hand to orient the students. Barizo is also the chairman of the the Aquinas University of Legazpi Response Team (ALERT). Meanwhile, OGT also made an opportunity for the office to meet parents of Aquinians. With the theme, “Magulang ka, Anak ako”, the office pushed were going to be compiled and sent to the desks of the members of the Senate and House of Representatives. Legislators may even adopt these suggestions and pass actual bills in Congress. Aside from immersing in law making, the participants were also able to hear from national leaders. This year the roster of speakers included neophyte Senators Bam Aquino and Sonny Angara, who both encouraged the participants to continue their passion for leadership. PMC is a brainchild of a core

through with its annual PEMP seminar. This event is guided, according to OGT, with the idea that the understanding between teenagers and their parents can have far reaching impact on the teens’ self-esteem. This year’s speaker Dr. Susan T. Gonzales-Villadarez touched on the featured topics on how parents can understand their children’s needs and strategies on how parents and their children can get along with each other better. With an estimated 100 parents in attendance, OGT hopes that it helped parents understand their teens more. The guidance office says that parents are able to effectively facilitate their children’s growth by responding to the young ones in a developmentally sensitive and appropriate way. ■ group of Filipino student leaders from different universities in the country and abroad, where they sought to replicate a similar event done in the United States. The American event includes conferences organized by Harvard, Princeton and other international universities. “I’ve never seen such a big group of the youth sector actively participating in politics in a nonviolent way; the way you see in rallies,” Monilla, who is president of the Aquinas University Political Science Students Association, gushed.

Last year, Hipolito was tied at 3rd place with fellow communication major Allan Navales, now in his junior year, in the university-level broadcasting finals. When she joined again this year, she was certain that she had what it takes to win all the way. “I guess that’s one of my greatest assets – I believe, I can,” Hipolito added. “I really wanted to win

Gov't challenges... FROM PAGE 1

Palabyab also mentioned that schools, like AUL, should be able to compete against other ASEAN universities and look for opportunities to attract foreign students and academics as well. Atty. Jocelyn Cruz, Vice Dean of the De La Salle University (DLSU) College of Law, said that in DLSU’s case, they’ve made efforts in sending some of their students to train with partner institutions abroad, particularly in Hong Kong. Atty. Cruz also pointed out how they’ve updated their website to make it more user-friendly which enables interested foreign students and professors to easily know about DLSU and their programs. The mentor from DLSU also

But the four students had to go the conference using their own funds. Despite no official endorsement from the school, the political science majors pushed through with their involvement, participating instead as individual provincial representatives. “It was worth it. Even if it was only for two days, you know you spent time trying to make a change in your country,” shared Monilla. Rima, Supreme Student Council president, agrees. “It was good. It gave me an experience on how

well-being. This covers the basic concerns of the students including health, food, shelter, and security matters. “The Aquinian student body can expect that our office will intensify its programs. They can approach OSS anytime if they have any concerns because the office will respond immediately as long as it is for the betterment of the students,” Barizo said. ■ because I believed it was my big break.” Moral support A number of Aquinian students with Prof. Romina Villamor of the College of Arts, Sciences and Education (CASE) trooped to Naga city to cheer Hipolito. CASE Dean Marytina Bonganay led the school delegation. Hipolito was thankful of the show of support. “Aquinians were obviously outnumbered and yet they shouted the loudest cheers and proved beyond a doubt that I was not fighting alone in the competition,” Hipolito shared. For the SA scholar, it was a big encouragement. “I was really touched knowing that those students yelled at the top of their lungs and showed Bicol that the Aquinian support given me was staunchly genuine and fierce,” she gratefully commented. “I am so proud of them.” The aspiring newscasters were judged by ABS-CBN top reporters Ryan Chua and Jeff Canoy, and fashion model and television actress Angel Aquino. Hipolito received a certificate, cash prize and a trophy. ■ mentioned that by 2015, Philippine universities must need to understand and not be afraid of the bigger economic paradigm of the AEC. She then rallied the Aquinian audience to believe in their inherent capabilities as Filipinos to face the challenges head on. A resounding chorus of “yes” from the Aquinians in attendance greeted the lecturers as the talk came to a close. Entitled “Doing Business in Free Trade Areas (DBFTA)”, the talk was part of an information campaign on FTAs lead by DTI, Department of Finance (DOF) and the government’s Tariff Commission. Professor Analyn L. Neptuno, AUL’s Coordinator for Academic Affairs, was present to welcome and thank the speakers during the event. ■ legislation works.” He further explained that “I don’t plan to enter government service anytime soon, but I think it’s important to know how our government works.” Upon coming home, the four participants urge other Aquinians, not only political science majors, to go to future PMC sessions. “I would recommend it to other students because I found it as one of the best ways to meet people with causes similar to yours. You meet people you’d never know you can meet,” said Monilla. ■

The Official Student Publication of the Aquinas University of Legazpi

Editorial Respecting the school Whenever we talk about our education, we never really run out of problems that accompany it—tuition fee hikes, quality of instruction, availability of facilities. These are some of the concerns that weigh heavily in the minds of school and government policy makers. But most of all, the many concerns that plague Philippine education today weigh heaviest in the minds of our parents, our guardians, our siblings, who work hard to provide the education that we both desire and need. It goes without saying then that we, students, must value with unquestionable passion, unwavering determination and unquenchable thirst that which is our family’s greatest legacy to us – an satuyang pag-adal. But the question is: do we value our education enough? Vandalized arm-chairs, damaged cork boards, mishandled aircon units – if we go by these, the charges against us will stand in any court that we are destroying that which we pay for. We burn our own money for the sake of pettiness and stupidity. Incessant smoking, drinking and drug abuse, promiscuity and then absenteeism – if we go by these, the charges against us should be more serious: robbery and plunder of the hard-earned money of our parents, guardians and siblings. When do we stop whining about what we lack and start working for that education that we deserve? Take the library as a prime example of how the school tries to provide for us, with the money that we ourselves have put in, and give us a space to learn and be the best that we can be. But how much do we value it? The library, we might say, is a sacred place of knowledge and discovery. It is not the only place to get knowledge, but it is an ever potent spring of erudition. What’s more, it is a place for every Aquinian. In the library, we are all equal: nobody is smarter than anybody else; nobody is richer than anybody else. In the library we are only judged as to who is ruder than others; who cares more for their education, and who is there just to cool the hollow space between their ears. If the students, faculty and non-teaching staff are the blood and breath of a university, it is the library that is its soul. It says a lot about who we are then how we respect the school and its facilities; and how we respect our education. Use the library, use it well. Use what the school can offer, use it well. Use your brain, use it well. Mag-adal.

HERALD AQ U I N I A N

The Official Student Publication of Aquinas University of Legazpi First Semester, A.Y. 2013-2014

ROGER A. ABITRIA IV Editor in Chief AARON MARC M. DIMAANO Associate Editor JILLIAN J. ESTRELLADO Associate Editor VIANNE J. HERMIDA Managing Editor RALPH B. ORENSE Sports Editor ALDRIN C. BROSAS Graphics Editor Staff Writers Jesus L. Dawal Jr., Carmela Diane B. Doma, Luis Antonio R. Villanueva, Alfred Robert K. Babasoro, Lyka M. Consulta, Zarra P. Escurel, Ace Z. Alba, Ralph Erik B. Bermas, John Edward G. Bueno, Rona Maricar C. Miña, Marisse M. Francia, Karen Daniele Besmonte, Patricia Monique B. Romero, Archie Ner, Charlyn B. Gomez, Joan B. Sauler Photography Romeo L. Diesta Jr., Patrick Henry G. Ludovice Art Karl B. Briguera, Michael Resyter B. Reyes Editorial Cartoon Jason Patrick O. Alcazar Layout/Design Aldrin C. Brosas

The office of the university student publication, AQUINIAN HERALD is located at the AQ Dome. Any comments, letters, and contributions can be directly addressed to our office or sent through e-mail at aquinianherald@gmail.com. Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/aquinianherald

It is my intention to give you the context of where my intense motivations are coming from in fighting for the existence of the school paper and the debate society; why I feel strongly for their future and why I need to focus on just one of them. Lest you mistake the succeeding paragraphs as one simple case of humblebragging, this early I am telling you my dear reader that it is not the case. Thank you. It has all been a personal journey. I am a liberal arts major. And I have accepted that I wasn’t cut out for the sciences when I was in high school. But I did pursue the sciences up until college, against what I truly want, against my literary inclinations. Let me give you the context. When I graduated from the Philippine Science High School—Bicol Campus and decided to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Applied Physics at the University of the Philippines –Los Banos, I knew I was not being true to myself and to my interests. To borrow one modern aphorism, I felt like a chameleon being taught how to fly; a fish being trained how to climb up a tree. In high school, I was always looking forward to my English and Filipino classes. And when we were asked to choose among Robotics, Industrial Chemistry, and Journalism as our elective, I fought hard to get a slot in Journ. I knew then that given my inclinations, I should have gone to a normal high

A farewell

school. Every a letter year the to Crossing Swords e d i t o the PSHS System r), Roger A. Abitria IV conducts my Pol rogerivabitria@gmail.com a national Sci 101 achievement professor test to gauge the performance congratulated me. Having of each of its campuses. At thought that I was the only that time, Bicol was known one who got published in to be the top performing that particular broadsheet campus in 4th year Physics. among all the students taking In our batch, it was a tie Pol Sci 101, he was surprised between Diliman and Bicol. to know that I was an Applied Well, I was one of the five Physics major (maybe he students in our batch who got assumed I was doing well in horrible scores in Physics. I my major subjects). Another got marginally better scores thing, I felt a sense of pride in other subjects. I wasn’t in having read The Count of affected, I was the top boy in Monte Cristo instead of the English. I took comfort in that chapters and chapters of fact as if my English language readings and problem sets test scores made up for my assigned to us by our Physics lacklustre performance in the instructor. sciences. As a science major, I knew In college, I looked that I was being passionate forward to Philosophy, about the wrong things. Political Science, and English. Debating, writing opinions, I wasn’t keen on attending being overly political, having classes I did not like. I was just Humanities profs as my role perfunctorily complying with models, and being barely school requirements. There visible in my department was a time when I had to re- would not help me get take my P.E. class because anywhere in Physics. I knew I flunked it the first time all that, but I just didn’t care I took it. It wasn’t Juijitsu, about my progress in Physics. Karate, Cycling, or anything So when I flunked my majors physically demanding. It in my fourth year there and was Walking for Fitness. was told I was going to be Imagine my lack of academic delayed for another two direction. I was obviously years, I decided to call it quits. bored and uninterested. Shifting to Communication In my first year, I never Arts was not possible studied enthusiastically for anymore, considering my my exams, I completed the low GWA and failing marks. four Math subjects required I packed my bags and left in my degree program with with a heavy heart. Truth be mediocre grades. I did not told, the fondest memories feel it was a big deal. In my I remember was when I was freshman year at UPLB, invited to judge debates in I was more interested in Philo classes and in a South communication and political Luzon high school debate dramas. For instance, when tournament, and my brief my article got published in stay in the Parliament: UPLB a national daily (it was just Debate Society.

I took a rest for one semester and thought about my options. I was fortunate to have a very supportive family. They assured me of their unconditional love and support. I decided that never again would I waste my time pursuing something I did not genuinely like. So I enrolled in Aquinas to study a field that is similar to Applied Physics: English. (In an environment as liberal as UP: Aquinas.) Smell the irony. But I have to say I love it here. (To all transferees out there: hello to you.) Having been the editorin-chief of the school paper in my elementary and high school years and given my love for the humanities and debate in my previous college, I was disappointed to know when I entered Aquinas University in 2010 that there was no school paper. There was no debate society. But it was my plan not to leave Aquinas without a school paper and a debate society established. I am part of the original editorial board when the school paper was reestablished in February 2012. Its editorial staff has grown bigger and well-coordinated. And based on the number of students screening for the school paper, I am confident that Aquinian Herald is here to stay. I like to think that I did my job well in keeping the group together in challenging times and building the necessary structures within the organization. NEXT PAGE

The Official Student Publication of the Aquinas University of Legazpi

It seems every time the school paper releases an issue, there would always be someone calling for our heads, hoping to skewer them on the little spears that jut out atop our newly painted fences and generally wishing for us to burn in hell. Not very loving, I know; and perhaps, not too unexpected. But at some point, valid criticism about the school paper becomes food for gossip and starts to corrupt even the simplest of courtesies and respect accorded to us. Suddenly it all becomes ridiculous, even galling, when we no longer stay in the debate about ideas, but instead we resort to veiled threats and unvoiced tension that put to shame the epic conflicts between Margaux and Celyn in ABS-CBN’s Ina, Kapatid, Anak. It seems nothing fosters warmongering and immaturity more than bruised egos smarting from our rhetoric. I write then to defend the school paper and share a message – an appeal if you may – for sanity from all, amidst an atmosphere of bridge burning and witch hunting. Here’s the thing. All of us do not share the same values; what is compelling for one, might not be as convincing to another. Those who feel so strongly about this, my advice is: accept it. If you find any person in life that challenges your traditions, your values, your conventions, try to find compromise and never control. And so in a liberating field, such as education, do not control the marketplace of opinion. Like a song that’s been played over and over, it gets tiring and painful to listen to only one dominant voice. Thus,

That day of September 9 was certainly a day to remember for the people of Zamboanga City. th

Seemingly out of nowhere, several hundred armed men came threatening to march on to the City Hall and raise a flag of secession. In the process, this faction of the MNLF led by the aging Chair Nur Misuari took about 200 people as a human shield to protect themselves against the Armed Forces of the Philippines. This decades-old stand-off between Filipino Christians and Muslims has already taken thousands of lives. I wonder if their increasingly singular goal has warranted taking hundreds more.

An open letter to the community

when only one voice gets heard, that of the establishment, the powers-that-be, the government, its officers, we will always hear the same worn-out statements.

Bad: We’re doing our best…; we have many accomplishments like…; that is a problem, but we are already solving this, in fact, it’s no longer a problem…. Worse: No comment…; I am not an expert on this nor are you so don’t ask…; that’s a very controversial question, better not make it public…; problems? What problems? Do you have any proof?! Good thing then, that in Aquinas University, almost everyone gets to be heard. Right? Let us check: the school administration has the whole assets of the university to express its voice and support its goals. The student council is brimming with officers and members, even college orgs are part of the structure, and it has all these to express its voice and serve the students. The student paper has its own mechanism, too, albeit with a much smaller population, to fulfill its role. Although, what we lack in numbers, we more than make up with our passion and hard work. And so we contribute our own voice. Our voice is underpinned, of course, by our mandate to raise the level of awareness of students and provide critical commentary whenever their welfare or rights have been jeopardized. And we do this only with pen and ink; the tools of our vocation. But here is the main point that I’d like to raise to our school

FROM PAGE 6

I am also one of the founders of Aquinas University Debate Society. It was established in January 2012, but was officially recognized by OSS in June that same year. But unlike Aquinian Herald, AQDS has seen a dwindling trend in membership. I feel the need to do everything I can to save it. Considering that Sir Jack Maceda, my mentor, left the university early this year, I fear for

Aaron Marc M. Dimaano

marcosdimaano@gmail.com

administration and student council: inadvertently, our voice will clash with your own. And that’s fine. Do not feel threatened when you are questioned. Instead, feel free to answer the question by proving through deed that you are even better. People call that maturity. I know some of the administrators and faculty have shown their wisdom and sense throughout the many issues, but perhaps many others can learn from them as well. Sometimes, you feel that it’s unfair that we can be heard by the whole school but you cannot; that we can say what we want, without fear, but you cannot; that all we do is talk and nothing else, while you on the other hand, walk, work and wrestle with real problems. But understand: our words in the school paper are our actions. You forget, this is supposed to be our main purpose – to ask, analyse and speak. What would you have us do? Do your job? Why? We’re doing ours, isn’t that enough? We know we have our shortcomings, true, and we have always thanked you for your feedback. And what do we do with your criticism? We reflect on them and evolve or grow as needed. Student Services Director Jess Barizo will attest to this when we have willingly revised our Editorial Policies to reflect their reservations

A suggestion then: perhaps all of us can do the same. Whenever we are with authority, power or influence, we should always be thankful for feedback. It keeps us grounded and ripe for growth. At the end of the day, this school could use more maturity from us all. First, there should be more maturity from the school paper and its members to ensure we stick true and loyal to our five values, and make our publishers, the students, even more proud. Second, there should be more maturity from the school administration and the faculty in how they engage the school paper and its board – we will always voice a healthy sense of doubt, criticism and, if need be, dismay, over policies and practices that are deemed undemocratic, insensitive and disrespectful of students’ rights. Third, there should be more maturity from the student council in how they treat the school paper – believe us when we say that we do not wish for your failure or your shame. Instead, we only bring to light the questions that need to be asked – those you are afraid to ask yourselves and those you have not considered yet – and we also forward answers, which are not necessarily the best solutions to problems, but suggestions nonetheless.

Rebel's tantrums

Misuari has been labelled as both “history’s spoiled child,” criticized for what he has done in the past, and “the old man,” said with reverence by his people as the founder and previous chairman of the MNLF.

Though these days after throwing his violent “temper tantrum” this reverence seems to be in question. After all, who would revere someone who takes and then holds as hostage the very people he wants freed? Maybe Misuari has reasons to feel aggrieved. After all the government all but ignored his declaration last August, which perhaps in hindsight, was, literally, a fatal mistake. But then, what else could have

A farewell...

Bear Hungry

amid the criticisms hurled at us. Perhaps the student council can also attest that despite them disapproving our request to share the Student Center with them, something that could have easily disappointed us, we have not used such as motivation or excuse to discredit or shame them.

the organization’s survival after I graduate in March 2014. Let’s just say it was a magical confluence of events and a meeting of amazing personalities that made my plans come true. Now that they have come true, my mission is to make these two organizations continue to exist long after I graduate. And as I have mentioned, I worry about the debate society. What better way to relate to you,

Mind-Over-Matter Jillian J. Estrellado

jill.estrellado@gmail.com

been done when peace talks and negotiations are already in place? It seems that the government has grown weary of Misuari and decided to fight fire with fire. Meanwhile, the siege has already displaced thousands of people from their homes. Watching them on the television, I could not imagine any goal, anything, that would justify all that distress. I saw children waving and smiling at the camera, looking oblivious to all the drama. But even so young, their eyes mirror the dear reader, the importance of the debate society than to tell you about its accomplishments. In the organization’s first year, AQDS gave Aquinas its first regional debate championship trophy; this year its second regional debate championship trophy. It gave the school its first Best Speaker awards and a graceful finish in the biggest regional British parliamentary debate in Bicol. AQDS now stands tall among the college debate

Let us agree then to disagree. You are entitled to your opinion. We are entitled to ours. You are always open to voice out your reaction to our opinion, as much as we are to yours. But let’s be mature about it. As much as we agree on things half of the time, we don’t the other half. That’s fine. Do not take each slight, each comment, each criticism, each aspect of unfavourable review as press abuse, invasion of privacy, libel or even evil. Relax. You are not perfect, that is all we’re saying. The news articles report it. Our analyses highlight it. Perhaps you’ve forgotten that when you do well, we actually make news about it. But if our opinion talks more about your flaws than your beauty, forgive us, we only mean to make you human. And we respect your humanity, not your perfection. But here is a pledge: We mean our professionalism. We mean our commitment to accuracy, fairness, independence, respect and diversity. Most of all, we mean our oath to become both excellent and fearless in our craft. Where others worry about money, we do not. Where others worry about fame, we do not. Where others worry about recognition, we do not. Where others worry about controversy, we do not. We worry about truth. We live in it. We herald it for all the world to see. This is our promise to you, dear Aquinians; you are our publishers and you deserve nothing less than our courage and frankness. ■

despondency and pain brought about by the war.

hope that there is a purpose to all the pain of the people of Zamboanga.

As the camera panned around I saw people in makeshift tents, cooking or doing laundry, trying to do their best to go on with their lives despite the generally crowded and dismal conditions of being in an evacuation area.

But then I’m reminded that his intentions may really just be secular in nature; that instead of fighting for the sake of those great human virtues such as religious freedom, cultural identity and equality they are really fighting for things as petty as fame and fortune.

Surely, this wasn’t the freedom Nur Misuari envisioned? He must have weighed the odds first before sending all those people to war. Surely he must have greater goals than to leave thousands of people homeless? That the good of the many outweigh the good of the few? Perhaps. Or maybe it’s just my blind optimism that causes me to organizations in the region, I dare say it’s the best in Albay. For its first year, AQDS has been great. In just a span of one year, our goal to make AQDS the best-performing debate organization in the region has come close to reality. Thanks to the group’s outstanding teamwork and of course, to the support of the school administration. Aquinas University Debate Society and Aquinian Herald are the two organizations closest to

As we hopefully set this chapter to a close, some may look back at this drama with wistfulness – a bad dream we’ve all had to share. But others, especially those who have lost their homes or loved ones because of the battle, will surely remember it with terror and anguish; and perhaps curse whoever caused this war ‘til their dying breaths. ■ my heart. They are my legacy to the school that gave me a second chance. Now that I have done what I can for the school paper, I think I am ready to leave. And so, I am leaving. I wish Aquinian Herald all the best. I am going to give AQDS my full attention this second semester. I urge you dear reader to help me in my cause. Fight for the existence of the debate society. Make Aquinas proud. Let us debate! ■

The Official Student Publication of the Aquinas University of Legazpi

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On June 22, 2013, the tutors, learners, and parents celebrated the graduates’ success during the REAP Orientation session at the BarAQ. They each shared their experiences in the program, and what their expectations this year are.

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REAP is an extension of Angelicum College’s home-study program. It has been adopted by Aquinas University as part of its community extension. As a part of the program, the university identifies out-of-school youths in the local community to become learners. These learners are provided guidance and tutoring to finish not only their elementary but also their secondary education. The learners are assigned lessons and tutors according to their level of skills and knowledge as determined by a diagnostic exam. But what they all have in common is their circumstances in life. These learners generally can neither afford a normal education nor have the time to go to back to school because they usually have to provide for their families. To help them out, these past years, College of Arts, Science and Education students and professors alike have been volunteering in the REAP program as tutors. They have devoted their Saturday afternoons

46 comments tutoring learners from Brgy. Lamba. This year though marks a change of guards for the program. During the Orientation event this semester, the previous volunteer coordinator of the REAP program, Prof. Lilia Nerbes announced that she was retiring from her position as REAP Coordinator. She had been there from the start and it was under her guidance that two of the learners had graduated. (Congratulations, Ma'am Lils!) To take her place is Center for Community Involvement Director Karen Lladones. Under her guidance and CCI’s, the REAP program will continue to help learners. I, on one hand, personally find this program a proof that Aquinians, being aware of how blessed they are, can act out of the kindness of their hearts. I encourage any Aquinian interested and capable, to volunteer for REAP as this is a genuine and profound way of giving back.

A summer of education, a summer of dedication A peek into the affiliation experience of nursing students 2013 at 10:15 am | Posted by : vianne j. hermida LAST SUMMER when you were probably relaxing on a beach somewhere or jamming with your friends to the latest vacation tunes or maybe even helping out at home or at your family store, 64 other Aquinians were sweating it out in a different kind of exercise. These roughly five dozen Aquinians are me and my junior batch mates from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. When the sun was ruling the weather, far from the beach or the mall or even our own homes, we had our affiliation program. It required us to work our summer in various health care facilities, assisting and learning at the same time. As you might expect it was no walk in the park; perhaps more like a walk in the ward as we had to undergo thorough clinical exposure. After all, the program promised to develop our minds and our spirits as well, emphasizing the core Aquinian values—Love, Gratitude, and Truth; things that we will come to understand better. But in the context of declining nursing enrolment rates, our department, the College of Nursing and Health Sciences has undauntedly set its sights on greater heights by partnering with excellent specialized hospitals. This was done to produce competent and efficient health practitioners – that would be us.

2013 at 9:30 pm | Posted by : luis antonio villanueva

With the help of Aquinian student-tutors, learners Shyril Antones and Maryjoy Lana, both from Barangay Lamba, Legazpi City, finished their high school education.

jul

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Humbly continues advocacy for education for the poor

As the semester started, the volunteers from Aquinas University celebrated an achievement for the program: two of its out-of-school youth learners were able to successfully complete the curriculum and thus earned an equivalent high school diploma.

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So from April 15 to May 3, and then May 6 to May 24, 2013, to help us future nurse learn to provide optimum health service to all sorts of patients, we packed our bags for a promised summer of learning and equally promised summer of hard work. 6 weeks of diligence To maximize our clinical exposure, we were organized with a systematic rotational plan dividing us into six groups composed of 10 to 11 students each. For the initial three weeks, we had our extensive exposure in different specialized hospitals in Manila. We got first-hand experience in specific areas at the National Center for Mental Health Pavilions 1 and 11, as well as the Philippine Orthopedic Center which specializes on cases concerning musculo-skeletal problems. Nursing majors were also assigned to the Hospicio de San Jose attending to geriatric ward patients and patients with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, polio, autism, down syndrome and mental retardation and a geriatric ward. We also stayed at the Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center, and were assigned to its Operating Room (OR), Delivery Room (DR), Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and Post-Anaesthesia Care Unit. After the whole tour of health care institutions in Metro Manila, we all went home; home to another

35 comments three weeks of affiliation that is. This time, we went to local hospitals. Student nurses were assigned to the OR of Aquinas University Hospital, the DR and NICU of the Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital, the OR and DR of Dr. Fernando B. Duran Sr. Memorial Hospital and the Holy Face Rehabilitation Center for Mental Health. And after those six long weeks, it came as a big relief when we’d met the needed number of duty hours and medical cases. Taking stock It was truly a summer we worked hard for. But more than relief, I also felt a real sense of learning and growth. As I understand it, part of the idea behind the affiliation program is the need to get student nurses accustomed to different types of clients. The program also helps students become more acquainted with varying physical set-ups and even practices of hospitals. These form part of the learning vital to every aspiring health practitioner; knowledge they need to equip themselves. Equally important, through the summer affiliation program, nursing students are able to build a foundation and an aperture for understanding and developing patience and dedication in life.

Musings of a working student Going to school is hard enough, working for your tuition is harder 2013 at 1:30 am | Posted by : *harvey

106 comments

I’m pretty sure that most of you will agree when I say that being a college student isn’t easy. Recitations every day, quizzes every two days, exams every week and month, projects, reports, etc. Sometimes, it feels too much.

are either high grades or lots of papers to submit. The slots are also limited.

But aside from school activities, some of us have to worry a lot more about our tuition fees and our everyday expenses. But it’s not automatically hopeless.

But working this early is a challenge for any college student like us. Aside from the fact that we have to study and work at the same time, we also have to balance our time, focus, and attention. In short: double the pressure, double the stress.

The tendency for some students is to seek financial support through scholarships but the requirements

A number of us look for job opportunities instead. Delicate balance

When I was still in my previous school, I was

working as a part-time sports writer for an amateur volleyball league in Manila. That time, I was also working for my final thesis project. Every day, I had to meet my groupmates for our thesis. Then I had to watch games every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday for me to be able to write the articles. It was tough. There were times when I wasn’t able to attend my classes because I had to finish my articles, times when my boss would scold me read more on page 8

The Official Student Publication of the Aquinas University of Legazpi

THE UPCOMING VARSITY STARS

Hear them roar! By Ace Z. Alba

As this semester ends and another is set to start, the students of Aquinas University will be very eager to watch out for the players that make up the school's roster of competitive sports teams. Thus, Aquinian Herald took the liberty of featuring three of AUL’s athletic talents: players who’ve brought pride to the school and will continue doing so as they play and compete.

Let’s meet three of our rising, roaring tigers.

TIGRESS NO.

Aira Ravago Everything that she wanted in a game, she found in basketball: the adrenaline rush going past the enemy defences; the thrill of quick thinking as the need to score grows with every tick of the scoreboard timer. This entire physical and mental challenge of the game captured the heart of Aira Ravago and transformed her to all of these: a basketball athlete, a varsity member, frequently a power forward player, and a student of Bachelor of Arts in Communication.

Academy. The school coach, upon seeing her potential, approached her and asked if she would be willing to build a team with the coach. After consenting, she grew to become her family's most competitive athlete.

"The only effort I believe I should make is to do better."

player graduate from college and leaving the team, she will still emphasize the value of team cooperation over her own performance.

Aira says, "even if you score the most points, it doesn't mean that you are the greatest player among them. You can only make those points because of your teammates. The only effort I believe I should make is to do better. I don't need to rise up in such a way that if we found ourselves with nothing to do, I should be the one to initiate something. For me, we have no leader; all of us in the, and as a In the end, positive attitude team, are equal." fuelled their perseverance. She also does her best to maintain "We may have lacked coordination her skills as an athlete. When on and cooperation, and it did look bad vacation, she still joins basketball for us to lose at our first game. But it did competitions in her place, hoping to not make our spirits wane,” she shared. maintain her passion for the game. “We tried our best to win our second She would also bond with her siblings game; we tried our best to win at least through basketball, and jog around for one game, so that even if we win or lose, exercise. when we come back home, we could actually share something we were proud And recently, she has become a of: that we changed our strategies to fan of NBA games, and she is inspired adapt to our new opponents and we did to become an athlete with her own our best to win.” celebrated signature move. At the nationals, her team ended up facing the champions from Western Visayas, whom they observed were trained in shooting the ball from long distances. "We were nervous," she says. "We found it hard to expect when they'll decide to shoot."

her friends; most of whom were boys. Certainly Aquinas University wasn't It was astig, she said, to play such sport. her first choice. She once thought of entering Mariners’ Polytechnic Colleges Conversely, because of the game, Foundation, but she couldn't handle the she caught the ire of her folks, friends, thought of being a pioneering women and siblings. They would frequently cager in that school; starting from doubt her sexuality; calling her names scratch. right to her face or behind her back. Even her four siblings, who she admits "There might be no female basketball as having very close relationships with, players there," she muses, "and I would would bug her with the same question. end up having to think of everything. I, myself, just want to be a simple player. At “I do not want people calling me that time I think I wasn't ready." tomboy[sic]; but this game, this is the one I want to play,” she gushes. "That’s She also found most of her friends In the end, she found the competition why back then, I asked myself, should and old teammates inside AUL, and she I stop? Which is why when I was in was drawn in by the way the university a worthwhile experience. elementary, I wasn’t sure if basketball handles and manages its teams and Initially, she was hesitant when she was really my calling.” athletes. found herself in the court; she was not All these changed when she Then the coach of the Aquinas sure if she trusted herself enough to hold the ball. But it all changed further on. attended high school in St. Raphael

She shares that all in the family are sports players, but her two sisters sports team recruited her, and because only went so far as to participate in of her diverse experience in basketball the volleyball event of their school’s competitions, she didn’t need to try out. intramurals. However, the challenges she faced in Her two brothers, meanwhile, are college weren't the same in high school. often active in the barangay leagues. The competition was different; the teams Although, one of her brothers right now that she had to contend with weren't the is part of the high school varsity of St. ones she used to face. Just after joining the varsity, she had to go compete with The passion for basketball goes way Raphael Academy. another team in the nationals. back to her childhood in Cumadcad She, on the other hand, already town in Sorsogon province, where since Overall, it was a tough challenge found herself in various tournaments grade four she was already playing before she even got to enter AUL's for her and her team. Their opponents basketball and even making bets with were teams they barely knew, by face or women basketball team.

TIGER NO.

by strategy. The pressure was great that Aira was afraid people would eventually blame her for a wrong decision or perhaps a failed attempt to shoot.

Of course, the basketball court isn't everything to her life. She also wants people to know that she isn't only an athlete, but an academic achiever too.

As an aspiring broadcaster, she is also open to competing in events related to her course and profession. "I barely even noticed that later She has been a participant in a Filipino on, I was the one scoring the most oratorical contest once in high school, points. After the game, people were and her peers were impressed with her complementing me. I never expected performance. myself to play that well. After that, I realized that whatever may happen, you She says this will be her focus once should always stay positive, you should she graduates from college, although she always trust yourself. You shouldn't is also open to pursue an athletic career just focus on the team, you should also if the opportunity presents itself. focus on yourself to win; to give it your But even if her basketball journey best shot; to trust yourself and the best ends upon her graduation, she will never of your abilities; to keep up and do what forget that once in her life, she too had a the others are doing." great time as a basketball player. In the game, she also prefers to be What would she do then if, for on the second five. It helps her plan a example, the varsity team is dissolved strategy; it gives her time to observe the or basketball ceased existing? You’d opposing team, know their weaknesses, be surprised by she intends to do. She and decide what to do best when she answers, “I could join the university enters the court. chorale. Although not as a singer, but as What’s her secret? She is very team- a guitarist." oriented, she admits. Despite seeing a

Renzo Buenconsejo

the floor defense of his team, who is conscious with his body. "When you It was intramurals season in Tabaco grow up, your body also grows with Northwest Elementary School and you. Volleyball then helps me maintain the young Renzo was a player for the my weight, keeps me thin, and burns badminton team event. His school cholesterol from my body." didn’t have a gym so all, if not most, of But choosing Aquinas University as the games were held outside on the grass his college wasn't just a simple choice; or concrete, and under the sweltering both the school and the course were sun. In that place, he found that the things that he had to talk to with his courts for the badminton and volleyball father. games were beside each other and were to be played simultaneously. Greatly, he thought about his family. He chose to take up Little surprise that a little time later, civil engineering similar much in the heat of his game, Renzo, moving to like his father, so that when smash the shuttlecock and win a point, he graduates, he would have looked above, but instead of a shuttle, an idea what his job would he saw a volleyball hurtling toward him, actually be. As the eldest perhaps a little too late. The ball hit him sibling of three, he also feels right on the face. obligated to support their This story, for Renzo Buenconsejo, a studies and build second year student taking up Bachelor their own families of Science in Civil Engineering, marked in the future. the start of his life’s affair with volleyball. H e “Surely when a ball hits you on the face, maintains hope you would be very angry with the ball,” that the course he explains. “So I hit it hard.” he has chosen “By then I felt that I just might able to and the job play volleyball. So, by Grade 5 I think, I that he will tried it out and got in and participated in be able to get will help him our city meet,” he shares. achieve his After that he had exchanged his goals. experience with racket and shuttle for But he a life in training with the volleyball. Though from time to time he still plays and his father also had to talk badminton, but more for leisure. about the school Volleyball, on the other hand, is he would go to. particularly useful for Renzo, being

Renzo initially wanted to study in Bicol University, but then he became worried about the institution's lack of facilities. He also believed that he would not be able to handle the five years of study in BU. His father also suggested Divine Word College of Legazpi, his father being an alumnus, but Renzo insisted against it. In the end, Aquinas looked like a good option to Renzo. He had already taken up the entrance exams, he felt he could handle the five years in

became a member of the varsity team when classes began. Interestingly, adjustment was easy for him. The easy jamming he had with his old teammates was still in the air; it was the new faces that he had to adapt and get comfortable with.

Thus, he plans to do his best to motivate his teammates to play well and have fun in the field, as their coach would tell them, regardless of whether they win or lose. It is the experience of the game that matters, he says. But also, he feels the need to double or triple his effort and improve his game for the sake of his team.

"Besides, honestly, when you're new, your teammates would always tease and taunt you. Since I usually go with Renzo even shares to all Aquinians the flow, it was just fine with me,” Renzo that they should expect his full remembers. “And I thought that time will determination and the best of his effort. probably come that I too "Of course, I'll do my best to prove can take revenge on the to my fellow students that their tuition newcomers," he jokes. fees are worth it. You know, our athletic Before long, he also scholarship also come from the fees of had to compete in the the students? And this is how I'll show to nationals and thus felt them my worth: as a proud yet humble a greater pressure in member of the volleyball varsity," he facing his opponents. vowed. Nonetheless, he felt that If ever he finds himself not a part in every game, whether of volleyball, or if ever volleyball goes in the division, regional, suddenly out of the picture, he says he or national level, what would probably pursue dancing. In fact, counted more than the training was the he once participated at the regional level way you responded to the game: your in sports dance, particularly ballroom alertness, your tactics, your diskarte. dancing. He believes that in the game, the Of course, he might not be practicing results were a matter of reading your the sport, but he did try to join the opponent's tactics in the field and AUL Dance Troupe last year. "Their overcoming them. specialization however, I found not But what other concerns plague his to my taste, so I wasn't able to pursue mind? With the loss of about four to five [dancing]. And I'm already getting players from their team – three to the bigger." diploma, one or possibly two to their "Besides, my life is already better own circumstance – Renzo also feels the with volleyball," he says. pressure to be one of the leaders and better players of the team.

“Surely when a ball hits you on the face, you would be very angry with the ball,” he explains. “So I hit it hard.” this institution, and all his other friends, old teammates from Tabaco High, are also planning to study in AUL. So he p u r s u e d A q u i n a s University, tried out and trained for volleyball in the summer, and

PHOTOS BY RALPH B. ORENSE

UPCOMING VARSITY, PAGE 9

The Official Student Publication of the Aquinas University of Legazpi

Albay gets invaded

Drama, Pop and the Korean Wave By Aaron Marc M. Dimaano

They

go home early to catch the latest episode of a TV novella about the love story between a very pretty, usually “simple” Korean leading lady and a handsome, misunderstood, usually “rich” Korean heartthrob.

They also listen to the newest tunes served up by Korea’s biggest boy and girl bands and music companies. Then they gyrate, dance and break some moves inspired by the amazing choreography they’ve seen in Korean music videos accessible thanks to YouTube. They also get impressively updated with what’s happening in the lives of their many idols – who is dating who, who has a new show, who is going to get drafted in the military, who looks hotter and sexier than usual. From time to time, they even get the chance to interact with their Korean idols thanks to social media and their many fan clubs online. These are the kids of the astonishing Hallyu or Korean Wave fandom; and if you knew one, you’d seriously think Koreans have already invaded the world! For a day, certainly, it seemed they’ve landed to conquer Albay. On September 22, 2013 droves of eager

fans from all over the region trooped to the First KPop Convention in Albay over at Celebration Plaza of the Embarcadero de Legazpi mall. (KPop is short for the music genre of Korean Pop.)

especially the older ones, can only scratch their heads as these scores of youth ogle over their Korean crushes.

No less than Albay Governor Joey Salceda, personally endorsed the event which welcomed and thrilled the enthusiastic KPop generation.

To be true, a whole lot of us don’t know who these artists are, and even a lot more don’t know what the lyrics to their songs actually mean, but the growing number of the fans, amazingly enough, know the songs by heart.

This is the generation that dresses in full KPop garb, shimmies and sings to the beats of their idols as the enthusiastic crowd of true blue fans cheers and applauds.

And Filipinos are not alone. All over the world, the Korean wave has touched hearts, influenced media and inspired a massive global following.

And all around them, there were heaps of Korean wave merchandise for sale; the hungry fans – boys and girls – devoured the offers.

“It was a blast!” posted the organizers on the Hallyu Albay page on Facebook. It would seem they are spot on.

Korean rapper Psy, who initially achieved universal stardom because of his hit “Oppa Gangnam Style,” eventually went on to sell over a million copies of his single. He followed this up with “Gentleman,” reaching out to his global fanbase, amid albeit less impressive buzz.

Touted as the first KPop convention in the Bicol Region, it seems it won’t be the last, based on the reactions of the youth gathered for the fanfare.

Understanding Korean Wave

Later on participants were also able to sign up with official fan clubs of the Korean groups and artists they support.

Yet,

even

then,

other

Albayanos,

WORLDWIDE APPEAL. Korean acts enjoy considerable success all over the world. Super Junior (far above) serenades a crowd at a concert in Bangkok, Thailand and Psy (above) performs his international hit Gangnam Style. Source: Wikimedia Commons (http://commons.wikimedia.org)

Meanwhile, ABS-CBN served Lovers in Paris about the affecting love story of two strangers who initially meet in the european city, make a connection with each other, but are separated only to bump into each other’s path back home and through a hurdle of different obstacles eventually win love for themselves. And up until now, all major TV networks including TV5 have their offered Korean TV dramas.

the

The Korean wave or “Hallyu” refers to the astonishing increase of popularity and acceptance of South Korean culture all over the world. Literally, Hallyu means “Flow of Korea.”

In the Philippines, the surge of this started with the hit TV shows or Koreanovelas. From the success of shows like Winter Sonata, Princess Hours and ANNYEONG BICOL 1.0. Even Gov. Joey Sarte Salceda joins in on the craze personally dedicating his cover photo (above) on Facebook to show his support. Source: Gov. Salceda FB page

had its own version of Coffee Prince, which is about a girl working in a café, pretending to be a boy and eventually falling in love with her boss.

Undoubtedly, Koreanovelas contributed heavily to the exposure of South Korea and its people to the Filipino psyche. For example, either you loved her or otherwise, but you’ll certainly remember Krung-Krung! (That would be Korean music idol Sandara Park who shot to fame in the Philippines as a sort-of comedic actress from ABS-CBN.) Suddenly, everybody wanted to be Korean, eat Korean food, or go to South Korea and perhaps even marry their “Seoulmates.” Japanese fans certainly did according to a report by American publication Washington Post.

People didn’t even have to necessarily know what the songs actually meant – they’re in Korean – but they raved anyway and sung along with “Nobody”; even if they were just spouting gibberish, albeit in Korean.

But in the Philippines, an even bigger Korean influence came into the picture. Enter Super Junior, Big Bang, Girls Generation, 2NE1, 2PM and other, uh, uniquely-named music groups that conquered radio and playback waves at home. People didn’t even have to necessarily know what the songs actually meant – they’re in Korean – but they raved anyway and sung along with “Nobody”; even if they were just spouting gibberish, albeit in Korean. For most, the song’s lss (last song syndrome) moment was limited to “I want nobody, nobody but you (clap clap) I want nobody, nobody but you (and then point with your finger).” Even then, sweep us over, it did.

Jumong, Koreanovelas soon commanded primetime TV slots.

So what makes so many, or at least the loyal Hallyu fans, so hooked?

Eventually, these foreign shows were adopted into local versions. GMA Network

Is it KPop acts’ good looks and star appeal? Is it the sheer catchiness and ALBAY GETS, NEXT

PAGE

The Official Student Publication of the Aquinas University of Legazpi

"...the Philippines and South Korea share a very different kind of cooperation." melodies of their songs? Or, is it perhaps the impressive, if not remarkable, music videos with their rich production value?

thousands of fawning Filipinas. And so not only has the Korean Wave boosted the economy o f

It would be best to say all of them make KPop truly effective. At any rate, one thing is for sure, KPop has created new rock stars for legions of fans to idolize. But what about Koreanovelas, Korean dramas and films? Why do they continue to be relevant to Filipinos? According to a University of the Philippines professor, Dr. Ma. Crisanta Flores, the real appeal of Korean TV shows goes beyond their production or technical beauty. In an article from The Philippine Star, Dr. Flores explains that Filipinos like Koreanovelas because they are able see themselves be reflected in the characters’ struggles, hopes and dreams.

FROM PH WITH LOVE The War Memorial dedicated to Filipinos at Goyang, South Korea Photo By R.A. Lamiel

been shown in South Korea. H o m e grown talent C ha r i c e also made her mark in South Korea as she was asked to be a guest repeatedly in a popular TV show, bringing her foreign audience to their feet, cheering and hooting, clearly impressed by the petite Filipina’s talent.

In the same Philippine Star article, TV network program analysts, Jose Ma. Bartolome and Rachel Simon, also mentioned about the similar family values that Koreans and Filipinos share and which are also highlighted in the Koreanovelas. This makes the shows readily acceptable to the home crowd, not to mention the undeniable “kilig” that the plot and characters create.

And, only in 2012, the first foreign-born or naturalized South Korean lawmaker was elected into FROM KOREA TO PHILIPPINES. Various KDramas that have been sensations have led to Filipino versions - for better or worse. office – and she was a Filipina. Ms. Jasmine Lee, originally from Ah, the kilig factor. No wonder so Mindanao, has been a television many of us are into Hallyu. personality, actress and now a poster child South Korea because of the export of of multiculturalism and immigration in entertainment and electronic products South Korea. The Filipino connection to Filipino fans, but it has also extended The Filipino influence in their country Korean influence and gives the Asian tiger The relationship between the a positive and Philippines and South Korea, though, esteemed actually goes a long way back. During the position in Korean War, the Philippines was among the world the first countries to send troops to help community. the South against the communist North’s invasion. But the flow of culture It’s said that the South Koreans goes both were especially grateful to Filipinos ways. that they remain thankful to this day. A commemorative monument in Korea Sandara marks this special bond. Park or krungkrung, as But fast forward decades after, the Filipinos have Philippines and South Korea share a very fondly called different kind of cooperation. her, is a now KPop artists come to the Philippines a certified multimedia star in South Korea will continue to grow as more and more for their concerts to the screams and going by the short name “Dara.” And she Koreans visit the Philippines. Already, adoration of tens of thousands of fans. does not hesitate from speaking in Filipino Korean tourists form the largest group of Even Korean actors, like superstar Lee Min to talk to her fans back here. The movies visitors in the country with more 1 million Ho, have become integral to the dreams of she made in the Philippines have even of them going to the Philippines in 2012.

because I came in late, and there was even a point where I only had four hours of sleep for five days. It was the most stressful part of my college life. But although it was literally tiring, I also had fun working during that time. It was because I loved what I was doing and I was happy about it. I got the chance to see the most popular volleyball players of the country. And yeah, I

was being paid to watch my favorite volleyball teams and players. I was able to sit in the best seats, eat the food that I wanted, and talk to players I idolized for free. I was also doing great in school. So yes, it was fun. Different same need

It’s really not surprising then that the South Korean government opened a Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in the Philippines to facilitate further the cultural exchange between the two.

"Filipinos like Koreanovelas because they are able see themselves be reflected in the characters’ struggles, hopes and dreams."

Filipinos also get transported into the very desirable world of modern Korea that is high-tech, upscale and just “better.”

Kwentong, from page 8

Across South East Asia, the Philippines also hosts the largest expatriate community with almost 100,000 Koreans living in the country. That’s a lot!

reasons,

But you can’t say the same for most of the students who have had the experience working and studying at the same time.

Others are just forced to work for them to be able to support their studies financially. Some of them really don’t want to work this early. They just want to enjoy their college life to its fullest. Unfortunately, they just have no choice. Others just want to experience how it feels. They tend to work because they want to know what the world looks like after they graduate. You can’t say they really want it, but you can’t say they hate it either. It’s out of plain curiosity.

Others seek diversion. They want to do something for them to be able to forget their personal problems. They believe that the stress, pressure, and fatigue work to their advantage because they’re able to avoid reality even for just a couple of hours. Whatever a student’s reason is, working is something that everyone will and should face after college. That’s what I’ve personally gathered. I find it is better if we

(Interestingly, the government of South Korea actually accredits official Hallyu fan clubs. Yes, they do.) In fact in September this year, KCC organized the 2013 Hallyu Forum to discover ways on how Filipino and Korean film-making industries can work closer and perhaps, even together. The forum was the springboard for the 2013 Korean Film Festival that will visit the cities of Manila, Iloilo, Cebu and Davao.

Does this mean we’ll see a closer Philippines and South Korea? One can almost hear the resounding yes from all the Hallyu fans in Albay. Perhaps things could only look brighter. If it was up to South Korean Ambassador Hyuk Lee, Filipino actors, actresses and directors will see more collaboration with their Korean counterparts. That’s surely good news. LEFT. Filipinaborn Jasmin Lee now an elected official in South Korea (source:korea herald.net)

Keep your fingers crossed then. Who knows? Maybe you’d get casted in a Korean film or be the next idol! Can you say annyeong?

RIGHT. Then dubbed as 'Pambansang Krung-krung', Sandara Park now goes by 'Dara' as one of the 2NE1 foursome. (source: MTVK)

To meet fellow enthusiasts, look for Hallyu Albay page at FB: www. facebook.com/hallyualbay and the Bicolano Korean culture lovers group page: ht t p s : / / w w w. f a c eb o o k . com/groups/KpopBicol/

To read and learn more about Korean culture, visit the Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines online at http://phil.korean-culture.org/welcome. do or the South Korean government’s www. korea.net

focus on our studies, do well, and collect achievements for us to become “in demand” after school. If you got the papers to prove your excellence, you don’t have to find opportunities because opportunities will find you. However, for you to be able to finish your studies, you have to face all the challenges that you’ll encounter along the way. It will never be easy, but if you persevere, nothing’s impossible. If you have to work to attend to your needs

and dreams, then do it. Just remember, time management will be crucial in these kinds of situations. If you know how to balance everything, you’ll be fine. We really don’t get to choose for ourselves at times. So we have to deal with the options being presented by fate. If we’re able to play the cards right, the gamble is worth it, and we will succeed. “Everything is possible if you’ve got enough nerves.” – JK Rowling.

The Official Student Publication of the Aquinas University of Legazpi

New student creative org blazing a fierce trail: watch out for

Lastly, ProDigi hopes to promote digital arts through quality creative work. In line with these thrusts, ProDigi offers free trainings to its members. They also plan to launch exhibits and galleries.

ProDigi

But the organization also considers its social obligations. In this light, ProDigi is also an advocate of the Freedom of Information bill pending in both houses of Congress.

Creatives!

By Karen Daniele Besmonte

Building an organization ProDigi’s current president, Hapal, a senior communication major, then chose from among the members of the organization those who would compose the different teams: Creative Core, Coordinating Team and Production Team.

The “Coordinating Team” led by fellow senior communication major, Soichiro Rosario, who is also ProDigi’s Managing Director, is in charge of the conceptualizations, strategic planning, script and storyboard writing process up until project execution.

Join Aquinian Herald as we get close and personal with these fierce new kids on the block. Born out of the creative minds of three Aquinian friends- Don Kevin Jose Hapal, John Paul Lanuza and Christopher Reolo, one of the newest university-based organizations in AUL, ProDigi Creatives – ProDigi for short – was officially launched on August 15, 2013 during this year’s Organization Days.

What are these goals? First, they would like develop the skills of their members. Second, the organization would also like to be of service to the Aquinian community.

SpeChel

Player

The Frontrunners, back-to-back champions of volleyball women’s division that time had every reason to be confident as they were facing the team that they defeated the last two years, the Vipers. But the underdogs from CNHS weren’t intimidated by the proud players of CBMA. They also had confidence heading into the championship game because they were the only team that defeated the two-time defending champions in the elimination round. As I stepped inside the AQ Dome, I already felt the championship atmosphere as I saw focused eyes, stoic faces, and warmed-up

“We aim to simulate a real creative company to prepare our members for the real industry,” he explains.

Slowly, the path that they’ve begun has started making people take notice. And they do deserve all the attention that people could give as these passionate students continue on their way to discover the extent of their skill and the impact that they could make.

CREATIVITY UNLEASHED. The banners for the 2013 Org Days are part of the successful projects designed and conceptualized by ProDigi PHOTO BY ROMEO L. DIESTA

Together with the guidance of their adviser, Mr. Leo Ganace of the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education, ProDigi yearns to realize three goals.

That’s when Hapal, Lanuza and Reolo came up with the brilliant idea of finally creating a team of Aquinians devoted to the digital arts, which they saw would fill the

Students, fans, and enthusiasts filled the AQ Dome in anticipation of the championship game between the lady spikers of CBMA Frontrunners and CNHS Vipers on September 14, 2013, the closing day of this year’s intramurals.

Hapal encourages everyone, who is interested, to consider joining in the organization. He says that ProDigi “is not only for those people who have the skills, but also for those who are willing to be trained and to learn.”

Seems like these new kids on the block are off to a good start; you can see it from the creative minds of the founders all the way to the projects offered and executed by the members.

Meanwhile, the “Production Team” covers photography, videography, graphic design, animation and digital audio composition with its three Creative Heads- Lanuza, Joseph Yap VII and Jaime Ante.

Way back before the organization was even conceived, its present members used to capture the rare and glowing moments of university events through photography, art and digital media without being recognized as a genuine community of individuals who shared the same passion.

By Ralph B. Orense

As the weeks pass by, ProDigi sees growth in the membership. The group has in fact always opened its doors to interested artists, whether enthusiasts or serious individuals who long to learn the ropes in the digital arts, public relations and advertising.

The “Creative Core” is the department responsible for the management and marketing of the organization. These guys are the ones doing the administrative tasks headed by the president.

This year, Aquinas University welcomes a new breed of digital artists and creativity junkies who promise to offer what no other student organization can offer: excellence in design and digital arts.

Congratulating Lady Vipers volleyball

A unique aspect of ProDigi, though, is that their members also earn through the projects that they take on, which in turn makes the team truly exceptional.

needs of the university.

You might already have seen their work this semester: a poster proudly announcing a new event, a Facebook teaser urging your excitement, digital creations and photography presenting the University’s proud colors or a set of remarkable images to represent the different colleges during the recent Org Days and Acquaintance Party. Impressive for a semester’s week, one would say. But chances are, you’ve probably never clearly heard about them yet.

Members serve and earn, too

Everyone is welcome to join

athletes. There was still ten minutes before the game officially begun but it seemed that both teams were ready to settle the score.

I was there to support the CNHS Lady Vipers, the team captain team that I’ve been rooting for since last year – not only because I have friends from their college, but also because of a specific player; someone who caught my attention ever since the try-outs from last year’s intramurals; someone who seemed really determined and focused in every game she’s played; someone who was willing to push herself to the limits just to lead will her team to victory; someone who had the love and passion for the game. She is the team captain of the CNHS Lady Spikers, Rachel Clemeña. Clemeña, a fourth year nursing student has started playing volleyball at a very young age, idolizing the likes of UAAP volleyball stars Rachel Anne Daquis and Fille Cainglet. She didn’t pursue a volleyball career though, as she was focused on studies more than sports. But that didn’t stop her from playing the game with dedication, drive, and enthusiasm; such that only genuine athletes possess. Upon arriving at the Dome, I immediately looked for Rachel. It didn’t take long for me to

In fact, the organization was behind the promotional and creative packaging of this year’s Organization Days themed as “AQ Unleashed.” In this project, ProDigi conducted the principal photography shoots, digital manipulation and design and over-all promotional package for the event. They’ve also been able to gain the trust of the university itself in producing quality output. Even the Office of Academic Affairs and the Office of Alumni and Public Affairs tapped the organization to create presentations for school promotions and other purposes and the documentation of this year’s Intramurals. see her near her teammates, praying. Playing in her final intramurals, I know this championship game meant a lot for Rachel. CNHS has failed to dethrone CBMA for the last two years. Last year, CNHS almost had the championship after leading by five and four points in sets one and three against CBMA, but their own unforced errors cost them the match. I was there and it was a painful three-set defeat for CNHS. Fuelled by her determination to win and by the thought that this is her last chance, Rachel told her teammates right from the start of the intramurals that their main goal is to grab this year’s championship. It was evident right from the beginning that Rachel and the Lady Vipers meant business this year. Facing the CEAFA Lady Knights in their first assignment, the Lady Vipers didn’t have much trouble in taking them out two sets to none in the opening day of the intramurals. As expected, Rachel led the team to victory, but she got plenty of help from teammates’ Abby Gail Bombita and Deanna Asuncion. The triumvirate took care of the scoring load for the Lady Vipers in their game against the Lady Knights. The next day, CNHS seemed to have the momentum on their side. Many thought that

As the group’s tagline goes, “every pixel counts,” perhaps you can help in making digital art more excellent in Aquinas University by being part of this awesome organization. The Aquinian community, meanwhile, can only wait and see where its journey will take ProDigi Creatives. You can learn more about them and contact them over at their FB page: www. facebook.com/ProdigiCreatives they would have a smooth ride back to the finals. But the CASE Guardians didn’t plan to be just another speed bump in the road of the Lady Vipers. The gritty volleybelles from CASE surprised CNHS as the former showed more energy and hustle during the game. The Lady Vipers saw their championship hopes pushed to the brink as the Lady Guardians handed them a stunning five-set defeat. To make things worse for CNHS, Rachel suffered knee bruises in the loss. Many thought that it was a major blow to the chances of the Lady Vipers, as they were going to face the defending champions in the final game of the eliminations. So it was a must win for the Lady Vipers, for if they lose to the Lady Frontrunners, their championship hopes will be gone for good. It was expected that their captain, Rachel, would sit out to rest because aside from her injuries, she was also looking tired. She’s also a player of CNHS’ beach volleyball team and her teammates were worried about her physical condition. Instead, Rachel didn’t sit out the final game. When the Lady Vipers faced the Lady Frontrunners in the third day of the intramurals, she was there, ready to go headto-head with their long-time rivals. Students saw an epic match between CNHS and CBMA as expected. The determination

The Official Student Publication of the Aquinas University of Legazpi

A SpeChel... FROM PAGE 12

of the players from CNHS was seen from their spikes, serves, and attacks. They were eager to prove something not only to their fans, but also to the reigning champions. Pushed against the wall, the Lady Vipers did their best to steal a win from the Lady Frontrunners, and they did, winning two sets to one. But because CBMA, CASE, and CNHS were all tied at two wins and a loss at the end of the elimination round, the quotient system was applied to determine who would face who in the Championship game. After a couple of hours, WSFC, the main organizer of the intramurals announced that it would be a rematch between CBMA and CNHS.

Oldenburg who sat out the middle of the second set due to an ankle injury. With everything seemingly working on their favour, the Lady Vipers didn’t allow this set to slip away; they emphatically closed things out and tied the set-score at one apiece with a 25-18 win. Having the confidence and momentum, the Lady Vipers continued their impressive play in the third set. Meanwhile, the Lady Frontrunners seemed lost ever since Oldenburg went down. They looked lethargic and nervous. Rachel knew what was going on, and together with Abby Gail and Deanna, they continued to take out the life in the game of the defending champions. CNHS were one set away from the gold with a 25-21 triumph against CBMA in the third set.

Students, fans, and enthusiasts filled the Dome in anticipation of the championship game between the lady spikers of CBMA Frontrunners and CNHS Vipers in the closing day of this year’s intramurals. Both teams seemed ready for another momentous clash and were focused at getting the win.

The Lady Vipers wore smiles and shared laughter before the fourth set. They relaxed a little, knowing that they just needed to win one more set for them to take the championship home. They didn’t seem to realize that danger was still present and they were about to be stunned in the next set.

For Rachel, this match promised something that she wanted ever since she started training with the team: the championship. Injuries, fatigue, distractions, and negativity meant nothing to her at that point, for she was looking at one thing and one thing only – the Championship Gold.

In the fourth set, the Lady Frontrunners looked different. They didn’t seem to like the minicelebration by their opponents. And with the return of Oldenburg, CBMA made it clear that they weren’t crowned back-to-back champions for nothing.

From the start of the first set, the Lady Vipers made it clear that they were a different team from last year. They immediately put pressure to the Lady Frontrunners as they scored the first two points of the game. However, the experience of the CBMA volleybelles was evident as they quickly erased the lead of the CNHS. In fact, they showed athleticism and hustle, something that shook the confidence of the players of their opponents. Looking intimidated, the Lady Vipers committed several unforced errors which led to CBMA stealing the momentum and the first set from them, 25-20. Seeing the rattled confidence of her teammates, Rachel reminded them that they came too far for them to just back down and quit. She reminded them of all their practices and sacrifices. But instead of telling them that the game is a must-win, the team captain of the Lady Vipers just told them to “have fun.” In the second set, the Lady Vipers came out firing as they seem to have perfect execution o f every play right from the start. They built an early 10-6 lead, and they never looked back. They also took advantage of the loss of CBMA’s star player, Gladys

The Lady Vipers stepped into the hard court looking to finish things up. But instead of a coronation, the entire CNHS community saw an ambush as CBMA literally dominated the fourth set, destroying their opponents in a merciless fashion. Rachel couldn’t do anything to stop the onslaught as even she was surprised by the sudden turn of events. Forced and unforced errors took the air out of the Lady Vipers as they bowed down to the Lady Frontrunners in a beat down, 25-9. The Lady Vipers and their supporters were in awe and disbelief as they didn’t seem to know what hit the team. CNHS was one set away from the championship and they let it slip through their fingers. But shaken and all, Rachel didn’t allow this to get into the heads of her teammates. She quickly talked to them, together with their coach Bryan Almonte, and told the team to shake it off and get ready for the final set.

TIGRESS NO.

Christine Raña Christine Raña came from a family of sports enthusiasts. "My father's side, in particular, love sports. My father adored basketball, my grandfather loved baseball, and my brother found joy in sepak takraw. The other side loved badminton,” professes Christine. Her interest in volleyball, meanwhile, sprung when she was still in grade four, when a sports journal in her school were looking desperately for volleyball players to interview. During that time, she was one of the

playing volleyball, I would get jealous. I really wanted to play," she shares. Christine used to be a nursing major in Bicol University. Back then, BU already invited her to participate in the official tournaments. Her parents however did not allow her. Her parents found that the venue of practices, which was in Legazpi City, was too distant for someone who lives in Tabaco City. Her duties as a nurseon-training also came into conflict with her passion. Thus she transferred to Aquinas University as a student taking up Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Major in

"... I should simply focus on my studies, they say. But if I see people playing volleyball, I would get jealous. I really wanted to play." students who were chosen to play a volleyball game. The winner in that game got to be interviewed by the writers. That event in particular, she recalls, placed volleyball in her attention. Since then, she became an avid player of the sport. She did not necessarily find any source of inspiration or motivation, though, for pursuing volleyball; she simply enjoyed it and did her best to be a part of the game. "My parents actually tried to convince me to stop playing; I should simply focus on my studies, they say. But if I see people

as a member of the CNHS women’s volleyball team, she was more than their vocal leader, she was their driving force. She gave her all and did her best to lead the Lady Vipers in the final set. And her confidence carried over to her teammates, as they played one of their best sets as a team. Not to be outdone, the Lady Frontrunners of CBMA didn’t allow their rivals to pull away. Each time CNHS made a run, CBMA immediately put halt to it. The most exciting part of the game came in the dying moments of it, as the Lady Vipers were holding a 12-9 lead. Their fans were shouting and cheering as they knew CNHS needed just three more points. Crowd got into a frenzy when the Lady Vipers had a 14-11 lead over the Lady Frontrunners. One more point was needed… One more point… A point that the Lady Vipers didn’t get…

Although it was also evident that even she was surprised, the captain of the Lady Vipers did her best to look calm and clearheaded.

CBMA made one final push for the championship as they kept their composure despite trailing by three points to CNHS. They made three quick points to tie the score at 14all.

Rachel knew what the fifth set meant to her and her teammates, and in her final minutes

The Lady Vipers called a time out and the look in their faces told the entire story. No matter what

Hospitality Management. Currently, she’s a third year student and was a member of the varsity team upon admission. "I actually didn't need to try out. The coach already knew me and saw me play beforehand. One time he saw me play for a main tournament, the Governor's Cup," she explains. Since then, she has continued to grow. "Well, I believe I've improved my game now," she says, referring to the difference between her high school and college experience as a varsity player.

they did, they can’t seem to put the champions away. They couldn’t seem to outplay and outsmart their long term rivals. They started to lose hope. But again, Rachel was there to clear their minds up. During the time-out, Rachel told the team that no matter what happens in that game, they should be proud of themselves. They weren’t expected to push the champions to the limit, they weren’t even expected to give them a tough match, but they did. No matter what happened, Rachel said that she will be proud of what her team has achieved. When the game resumed, the Lady Frontrunners immediately took a one point lead, and a CNHS failed to go after a loose ball; that gave the win and the championship to the Lady Frontrunners with a 16-14 fifth set win. But instead of looks of disappointment, frustrations and sadness, the Lady Vipers congratulated their opponents with smiles in their faces. Afterwards, they hugged each other with tears in their eyes. But it seemed to me that those weren’t tears of defeat; those were tears of joy, as they knew they did what they needed to do.

She found the training here in Aquinas University more rigorous than what she had in her high school experience, and she believes the training improved her skills and lessened her flaws. What’s next for her? Some of her more senior teammates may not have graduated yet, but her peers are already teasing her as the next Captain-Ball. She did clarify that their coach said nothing of the sort, the decision still uncertain, but among her teammates she can already feel the pressure of being the next in line. If she indeed becomes the future captain, she plans to improve the team's cooperation and teamwork. She shares that she sees the team currently struggling with the participation of the newcomers. She explains that sometimes "even if one of the newcomers decides not to practice, all of them will not attend the practice at all." She hopes that she could talk to them, to discipline them, and make them realize that they need to practice even when their coach is not around. But in a year or two, she too will hopefully graduate. What her plans? Outside her world of volleyball lie her hopes of becoming a future businesswoman or chef. She even shared what her present favorite recipes are. According to her, she adores an Avenue Plaza Hotel specialty, the Wangyu Burger, and the caesar salad.

So there you have it: a bite-sized look into some of our varsity athletes’ lives both inside the hard court and out. It seems far from being stereotypical shallow-minded jocks, our rising tigers are proving to be very human and very inspirational champions as they continue their dedication to their sport, their education and their dreams. These are your Aquinian athletes. Hear them roar!

Rachel was there, shaking the hands of their worthy opponents and giving praise to her teammates. She was a proud captain. I looked at Rachel walk out of the intramurals as a silver medallist, but it occurred to me that she has nothing to be ashamed of, instead she should be congratulated because she didn’t quit on her team. She did her best on and off the court as a player, as a teammate, and as a captain. Those who have seen her play for the last four years will remember her as someone with an undying fighting spirit, confidence, and faith in her game and her teammates; someone who pushes herself to the limits and plays through injuries just to give her team and her department the win; someone who remains humble after victories and learns from defeat; someone who always does her best on and off the court, playing or not, to give her team the motivation that they needed. Rachel will indeed be remembered as a special player not only by her teammates, but also by her friends and fans. The intramurals is over and so is Rachel’s campaign as a volleyball player. She’s back to her studies as a A SPECHEL, PAGE 15

14 Colleges clash...

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be asked to play just for the sake of playing. But they still went out there and competed despite all the issues. So overall, I’m still happy with our efforts this year,” shared the CEAFA mentor. Settling for third place is CASE who edged CNHS in the overall tally by a total of nine points. CASE collected 551 points at the end of the annual tourney. “I’m glad we maintained third place,” said CASE sports coordinator Mr. Gregorio Hallare, Jr. “I was hoping that we’ll win silver or even gold, but the reality is, winning the championship is really a long shot because CASE is a small community.” Although CASE had showed a lot of improvement compared to last year, they still struggled. Hallare believes that those were because of their small population. “It’s difficult to find that many athletes in a small community like our department,” he said. However, for Dr. Arlene Aguilar, coach of the women’s volleyball team of CASE, the accomplishments of their players during the intramurals was something to be proud of. “Our players gave their best. I saw their desire to win. It is something that is obvious with our players, their heart and passion. Even though we didn’t win that many games, I knew we did our best,” said Dr. Aguilar. For CNHS, who garnered 542 points to finish last for the second consecutive year, their performance this year was something that they shouldn’t be ashamed of, according to student coordinator Zarra Escurel (4 BSN). “We did our best, that’s all that matters. We came out there and proved to everyone that we can compete. We didn’t back down from the challenge,” said Escurel. She said there were goals that they did and did not achieve. But seeing the athletes of CNHS

more benefits than those who are into online gaming and social networking sites. “I personally believe that students, most especially those who are not that into sports should know that there are a lot of benefits from playing physical games than being stuck in front of their computers and surfing the internet,” said Soneja. “Intramurals is more than just the promoting camaraderie and friendship. It is also promoting physical fitness and wellness among players and students,” he added. Basketball CBMA has been dominating the basketball competition in the annual intramurals for quite some time now, and they seem to have no plans of letting others dethrone them as they once again came out as the champions for the basketball men’s and women’s division this year. In the men’s division, the CBMA Frontrunners decimated the CEAFA Knights 73-51 while the Lady Frontrunners pummelled the Lady Knights 47-28. These two squads have been meeting each other in the championship games of the said event for how many years now, but the Knights can’t seem to find the answer in defeating the Frontrunners. The basketball teams of CBMA made it look easy right from the start as they have blown out their opponents from the other departments right from the start of the eliminations. There was no stopping the male and female cagers of CBMA as they made quick work of their rivals from CEAFA to claim the titles in both divisions. Volleyball CBMA successfully defended their title in the volleyball men’s and women’s division as they won with great relish against the spikers of CNHS. The Frontrunners and Vipers were the main protagonists in the both division of volleyball in

ARCHRIVALS. CBMA and CEAFA go toe-to-toe in the basketball game at the AUL Dome. PHOTO BY PATRICK LUDOVICE

perform at a high-level during the intramurals despite their tight schedule is one of their biggest accomplishments in this year’s intramurals.

this year’s intramurals. The two colleges dominated the volleyball eliminations as they had few hurdles in their way to the championship games.

With an impressive and improved intramurals coming to a close, WSFC chief Soneja expects that its success will inspire players and students of Aquinas University to embrace sports and physical fitness. The head of WSFC believes that everyone who will focus on physical sports will have

In the women’s division, the Lady Frontrunners did not let the Lady Vipers steal the victory and the championship from them. They outlasted the Lady Vipers in an epic five-setter 25-20, 18-25, 21-25, 25-9, 16-14. The two teams truly showed

their power, fuelling the fires inside the AUL Dome. The Frontrunners strived hard and triumphantly guarded the first set. The Vipers didn’t let their opponent to pull away, stealing the second and third set. CBMA almost had a major blow when Gladys Oldenburg left the game due to her injury in the middle of second set. She did return at the fourth set and led the Frontrunners in dominating the Vipers. In the fifth set, both teams fight it out for every point, but CBMA squeaked it out in the end and escaped with a win. In the men’s division, the Frontrunners easily closed out the Vipers in four sets 25-19, 25-22, 15-25, 25-18. CBMA got the first two sets of the game. But, the Vipers didn’t give up that easy as they showed a good fight and prevented a sweep in the third set. However, the fourth saw the Frontrunners finally claim championship. Football CBMA Frontrunners derailed the CASE Guardians and sealed their victory with a score of 5-2 in the Football championship game. In the early phase of the final game, CASE’s Ronaldo Lumbao made an impression when he successfully prevented CBMA’s first attempt to score. But the powerhouse of the Frontrunners’ booters proved to be too much for the Guardians as they fired five points in the game with the goals from Lucky Asejo, Teddy Berjuega, Rowell Nator, and Ralph Sape. CBMA booters showed dominance from the first game up to their last as they went unbeaten in the elimination round. The Frontrunners’ Berjuega powered their initial battle against CASE with his scoring prowess, piling up three goals in a single match. The game was closed out with an insurmountable lead of 6 points, 8-2. Showing their flashes of brilliance, the group continued to showcase their outpouring skills and punishing defense as they trashed CEAFA with a score of 4-0. Winning by default against the Vipers, the Frontrunners took their ticket to the championship, which they eventually won.

in the first regu and 20-17, 17-20, 15-9 in the second. The Frontrunners looked ready right from the start and they didn’t

FOOTWORK. CASE and CBMA battle it out in the football field.

allow CASE to build momentum. They were clearly in the driver’s seat in the entirety of the first regu. However, in the second regu, CASE did put up a fight, although they lost the first set in the second regu, they were the victors in the second set. However, their rejuvenation came too late as the Frontrunners closed them out in the third set, claiming the win and stealing the championship. Badminton The smashers from CBMA showed amazing teamwork as they conquered the men’s and women’s division of Badminton this year. Josefine Casimiro and Ecle Rocherry of CBMA defeated the team of Faith Raphaella Barcelon and Sage Olfindo of CNHS with the score of 21-12, 21-19 in the women’s division while Rafa Ferrand and James Lloyd Rosios (CBMA) took care of Patrick Henry Ludovice and Vert Zafra (CNHS) 21-14, 21-11 in the men’s category. CBMA and CNHS were the dominant teams at the end of the eliminations. They easily handled opponents and booked their slots in the championships. However, the athleticism of the pairs from CBMA proved to be too much for the tandems of CNHS as the former looked more sharp and focused right from the start. They had less trouble in beating their opponents and claiming the championships.

Beach Volleyball

Tennis

Known for her power and skill as the one of the best volleyball players of CBMA, lady spiker Gladys Oldenburg, with her two co-players Ashley Razon and Kevin Bermundo bagged this year’s title in Beach Volley championship game against CNHS.

CBMA and CEAFA smashers reigned supreme against their rivals in the Lawn Tennis tournament as the Frontrunners won the gold in the Men’s Category while the Knights emerged victorious in the Women’s Division.

CBMA Frontrunners outpowered CNHS Vipers’ Bryan Almonte, Abby Gail Bombita and Rachel Clemeña in the championship game. Tormenting their foes with their sweeping rally, the trio from CBMA got the win with a set score of 2-0. Sepak Takraw The skippers from CBMA dethroned CASE in the Sepak Takraw championships in this year’s Intramurals. CBMA won a double-regulation match with the scores of 23-6, 21-11

in the first set as their errors gave the win to Lido and Rabellas with a score of 7-5. However, the Knoghts finally found their offensive rhythm and got back to the Vipers in the

CBMA partners Karl Espinas and Christopher Miras made it difficult for CEAFA’s Gerald Mabini and Ryan Calleja to win. They easily took care of the first set with a score of 6-2. Mabini and Calleja tried their best to get back to their offensive rhythm but the combined skills of Espinas and Miras were too much for them to handle as the latter sealed the game with a win in the second set, 6-2. Anna Margarita Bichara and Gwayne Gonzales of CEAFA survived a three-setter match as they outshined CNHS’ Ayanna Lido and Dawn Viviene Rabelas. Gonzales and Bichara had trouble

PHOTO BY PATRICK LUDOVICE

second and deciding set with a score of 6-3, 6-4, finally claiming the title. Swimming Tankers from the four departments split the wins in the swimming men’s and women’s division as all of them had at least one medal at the end of the tournament. In the men’s division, CEAFA’s Thomas Velasco won the freestyle event with a time of 36.28 seconds. Nestor Chua III of CBMA followed with a time of 40.45 and Jonathan Carbonell of CNHS finished third with a 44.45 mark. CBMA’s Martin Lubag was dominant in the backstroke event with a time of 35.29 seconds, leading by almost 20 seconds to second runner-up Thomas Veloso of CEAFA, who ended with a 57.25 record. Paul Aquino of CNHS was way behind with a time of 1.41.28 seconds but was still good for third. In the breast stroke event, CBMA’s Nestor Chua III had a hard fought win against CEAFA’s Arvie Carullo. Chua edged Carullo by just a second with the former finishing 51 seconds as opposed to the latter’s 52. Martin Lubag of CBMA also lorded the butterfly event as he once again won by a mile when he finished 32.38 seconds while silver medallist Jake Obligacion (CNHS) finished with 42.88. John Candasa of CEAFA placed third with a 1.23.37 record. In the women’s division, BJ Rivera (CNHS) won the freestyle event with a time of 1.05.77 mark. Julia Barbacena’s 1.19.83 was good for second place while Mae Delgado (1.26.53) was good for third. Aeyenne Maduro of CBMA was the victor in the backstroke event with a 1.14.32 mark while second placer BJ Rivera finished with 1.22.09 record. Angelica Guillermo of CASE settled for third with 1.35.42. CASE Guardians’ Mary Janelle Orap swam her way to two gold medals as she was the winner in the breast stroke event with a time of 46.93 seconds, beating CNHS’ Czarina Tablan (1.07.50) and CEAFA’s Asiana Ocampo (1.14.33). Orap also earned gold in the butterfly category as she finished NEXT PAGE

The Official Student Publication of the Aquinas University of Legazpi

Colleges clash... FROM PAGE 15

with a record of 53.28, outlasting Czarina Tablan of CNHS (1.31.30) and Aeyenne Marudo (1.45.77) of CBMA. Chess CBMA and CEAFA woodpushers outsmarted their rivals in the finals of the chess tournaments in this year’s intramurals. Gilbert Monforte, Rommel Gabling, and Bob Balderama Jr of CBMA gathered 12.5 points after six rounds to claim the championship in men’s division of chess. Diony Nuñes, Jonathan Bas, and Joshua Barzaga of CASE earned nine points to bag the silver medal. Meanwhile, CEAFA’s Ceilo Alianza, Kirstin Jazmin, and Nelmer Borbe were dominant in the women’s division of chess as they collected a total of 15.5 points after six rounds. Silver medallists were CBMA’s Bea Patricia Perez, Syrel Macadangdang, and Jessica Esmeña. AUL Chess

Woodpushers Warren Gumabao and Mark Andrew Cartela (men’s) and Gwynne Gonzales and Jaryl Gamba (women’s) went undefeated after three rounds of chess competition. They showed teamwork and familiarity in this unique kind of chess as they made it look easy although out. Christian Lantero and Jory Buama (CBMA) grabbed the silver medals in the men’s division while CNHS’ Danica Bodino and Catherine Diaz were the silver medallists in the women’s division. Something New! Another sport was introduced in this intramurals as well, as students saw an exhibition game of Futsal played in the AUL grounds. This marked the first time it was exhibited in the Bicol Region. Futsal or better known as indoor football is most likely going to be included in next year’s intramurals as a regular event according to WSFC.

CEAFA claimed the championships in the AUL chess men’s and women’s division this year.

Aquinian woodpusher

It has been about a month since we witnessed another successful intramurals. Unlike last year, most of the games I’ve witnessed this year were pretty competitive. Players from the four colleges gave their best in games they’ve participated in. I must admit, I’m really entertained by the games I’ve seen the students play. As a sports fan, it’s really fun to watch hard-fought battles and games decided by close margins. It gives you that excitement, that desire to finish the game until the final buzzer sounds to see who will come out as the victor. At the end of the four day event, we all witnessed CBMA grab their fourth consecutive overall intramurals championship. They really gave justification to their monicker “Frontrunners.” As expected, they dominated this year’s intramurals much like they did the previous three years. Congratulations CBMA! CEAFA also did their best to, at the least, keep the second spot. Although they came up short (again) to steal the overall championship from the powerhouse CBMA, I’m sure their department is proud of what they’ve achieved this year. CASE and CNHS didn’t disappoint their fans and supporters as well – I’m personally a fan of the Vipers. Although it was almost inevitable that they were the

A True Winner

ones who’ll place third and fourth in the annual sporting event of the university, they showed heart, passion, and dedication in the games they’ve played. Some of their players even pushed themselves to the limit, stepping in the battlefield, playing despite fatigue and injuries.

Overall, the four colleges did make this year’s intramurals a very entertaining one. So to the faculty members, coordinators, players, students, and fans, you should be proud of yourselves and the college you chose to support. You guys are all winners! Yes, you read it right. You guys are winners in your own way! First of all, I would like to congratulate the champions of every event. Those players who really trained and prepared hard for their respective sport; players who successfully won and defended their titles; players who celebrated their victories, yet congratulated their opponents; players who bragged about their achievement, but didn’t mock their opponents; players who screamed for joy, but didn’t shout at their opponents; players who were proud of what they did, not loudly towards their opponents; and players who knew they did their best, but remained humble about it. If you see

yourself in one, two, or even most of these descriptions, be proud of yourself for you are a worthy champion. To those who were almost there but came up short, you shouldn’t be ashamed of yourselves. In fact, you should be proud, especially if you did what you needed to do. If you played with heart right from the opening second to the final buzzer; if you gave your best in every shot, spike, smash, kick, move, dive, throw, run, jump, and whatever you did once you were in playing field; if you stood up and continued during the times you stumbled and fell down; if you were able to keep going after committing an error; if you lost, yet was able to shake the hands of the athlete who defeated you; if you were beaten, but were able to smile; or if you were able to keep your head looking up despite a disappointing defeat, be proud of yourself for you are a worthy competitor. You see, winning is something that every athlete or player aims for when he or she is competing in a game or tournament. But reality is that there will always be a victor and a loser. That is inevitable. However, becoming a winner is more than just the glory of the triumph, or the chance to hold a trophy, or the bragging rights. Winning also

The Write to Shoot

Ralph B. Orense

ralph.orense24@gmail.com

means having the attitude to be humble after a victory or being grateful after a defeat. A true winner will and should always be down-toearth despite the success they’ve attained. Those who taunt opponents, mocks fans, throws things at rivals, or fail to show respect after a game are great talents, but unworthy of the win. A true winner will and should always be willing to learn after every failure. Those who keep on complaining after a defeat, blaming others, questioning the officials, or failing to acknowledge the athlete who beat them are worthy of defeat, and worthy of its pain. A true winner will do his or her best to be better, win or lose. “Winning is the desire to be the best, the drive to be on top, and the obsession for greatness. Yet it is also a responsibility, a responsibility to thank and appreciate those whom he defeated. For one wouldn’t be a winner if he didn’t face competition along the way.” – Steve Nash, Los Angeles Lakers Congratulations to you if you are a True Winner!

PHOTOS BY: PATRICK HENRY G. LUDOVICE

CNHS takes... FROM PAGE 16

the pressure was especially high. Being back-to-back champions at the time, they needed to defend their title against the other colleges. Nevertheless, CNHS didn’t back down from the challenge. They gave an allout performance jam-packed with vigour and enthusiasm. The Vipers made their mark with a snake-themed performance. Meanwhile, three-time intramurals

AQ ping pong FROM PAGE 16

stating that we are officially accredited by the TATAPhil,” said Mr. Soneja.

Opportunity for all There are many expected benefits that the ATTC can acquire in the possible accreditation. TATAPhil can share their knowledge, experience, and skills to ATTC. The national group can also help AUL in adapting to updated training programs and thus encourage more students to engage in table tennis. It is seen that varsity members and Aquinians will not only be the beneficiaries

overall champion College of Business Management and Accountancy (CBMA) Frontrunners came out with a martial arts-inspired routine. The College of Arts, Sciences and Education (CASE) Guardians also made an impression with their school boy-school girl and anime concept. The College of Engineering, Architecture and Fine Arts (CEAFA) Knights didn’t stray far from their namesake wearing knight-like outfits with of the anticipated opportunity for the ATTC but also students coming from other schools like Bitano Elementary School, Albay Central School, Divine Word College of Legazpi High School and St. Agnes Academy. Professor Sam Aguilar, adviser of Aquinian Aficionados, explained, “ATTC is open to the outside the school enthusiasts especially during competitions because AUL is the usual venue for the table tennis games in Legazpi city.”

More power Nonetheless, this development is a big boost

matching shields as props. In each performance, the different college colors were evident. The Frontrunners were clad in black and yellow; the Guardians were up and ready in blue and white; the Knights were clothed in red and black; and, the Vipers were in white with accents of green and purple. In the end, the CNHS Vipers were crowned as the champions. The CEAFA Knights, meanwhile, were to the Aquinian ping pong squad. The achievements of the AUL prides, Aquinian Aficionados, are one of the reasons for this chance. Brimming with their tenacious spirit, the AUL smashers had showcased their power and strong will in their recent national battles drawing attention to the university. Meaning to raise the bar even more, an atmosphere of excitement and expectation builds around the AUL table tennis team as they await further growth under the guidance of the national core group. ■

declared as first runnerup, followed by the CASE Guardians in third place and the CBMA Frontrunners ranking last. CNHS won their back-toback titles in the cheerdance competition in 2010 and 2011, but they weren’t able

Aquinian teams... FROM PAGE 16

battle with the visitors. With 5:25 left in the game, the teams were tied at 68. AUL almost suffered a fatal blow when one of their players, Jessica Jacob, suffered cramps after attempting a lay-up. But it did not shake the confidence of Aquinas University as they scored the final three points of the game, while their suffocating defense put Bicol University in a scoring drought. AUL’s gameplay was crucial as it didn’t allow BU to score, especially in the dying seconds of the game and giving the Rawis ballers the come-from-behind win. “Our teamwork and chemistry gave us this win,” said Roland Jarque, coach of AUL women’s basketball

to defend it in the 2013 intramurals because the cheer event was removed. It did not take long for the Wellness, Sports and Fitness Center (WSFC) to announce the event’s return this year as cheerdance is one of the most anticipated events in the annual intramurals. ■ team. Meanwhile, in the final day of this year’s intramurals, basketball enthusiasts and aficionadas who filled the dome saw the cagers of Mariners dominate Aquinas University men’s team right from the get-go. AUL managed to keep it close in the first quarter, as they trailed MPCF by only eight points, 19-11. But in the second quarter, Mariners started to pull away from Aquinas as they established a huge lead 41-23. MPCF made the game look more like a scrimmage than an exhibition in the third quarter as they put up a commanding 65-34 lead capped off by a vicious dunk by MPCF’s Joey Mendenilla that wowed the AUL crowd. The AUL tigers knew that this game was out of hand so they decided to end the match

A SpeChel... FROM PAGE 13

nursing student and she’ll be graduating next year. But she will always be remembered as one of the most inspiring athletes to play for CNHS in the intramurals. ■ still with seven minutes left in the game, giving the 77-36 win to the visiting team. “We have experienced veterans on our team. It was our major edge as to why we won this game,” said Mendenilla, MCPF’s playing coach. “Some of us have played for at least four to six years together so we really know how to play with each other; that’s why we were really comfortable out there.” The exhibition games were held this year in preparation for the Governor’s Cup, which began on September 16, 2013. Aquinas University is the defending champion of the basketball women’s division and runner-up in the men’s division in the said tournament, which will also feature the volleyball men’s and women’s squads in action. ■

FLYING HIGH. Three-time champion CNHS Vipers showcase acrobatics in the 2013 Cheerdance competition at the AUL Dome. PHOTO BY ROMEO L. DIESTA

SPORTS AQ U I N I A N

The Official Student Publication of the Aquinas University of Legazpi

Colleges clash in intense Intrams '13 By Ralph B. Orense, Rona Maricar C. Miña and Archie Ner

“THIS YEAR’S intramurals is better than the previous years.” This is how Wellness for Sports and Fitness Center (WSFC) head Aldin Soneja described the intramurals held last September 10 to 13, 2013 at the university grounds. The entire Aquinian community witnessed the four departments of the university battle it out in every team and individual sport. But unlike last year, everyone saw a tighter competition this year as every athlete gave their all to try to win the championship in their respective games. “We had a better competition this year,” said Soneja. “Most of

the games played in this year’s intramurals were decided really by really close margins. It just showed us that every player from the four departments came out to play and win,” he added.

CNHS athletes. “Unlike last year, their players are more competitive this year, especially CNHS. Most of their players are graduating, but they still came out there and gave their 100%,” he added.

Soneja said that he was surprised, yet proud to see this type of performance from the four departments. He even commended the athletes of College of Arts, Sciences and Education (CASE) and College of Nursing and Health Sciences (CNHS) for being able to keep up with the high-level of competition despite their student population.

But although it was obvious that the intensity of the fourday tournament was better than before, in the end, the College of Business Management and Accountancy (CBMA) still came out as the overall champion this year. With a total score of 1,115 at the end of the sporting event, the Frontrunners claimed their fourth straight overall championship in dominating fashion as they led first-runner up College of Engineering, Architecture and Fine

“They really did their best,” Soneja said referring to CASE and

Arts (CEAFA) by more than 200 points. “The best,” volleyball player Mark Atos described the intramurals. “In my four years of playing for CBMA in the intramurals, I can say that this is the best year ever.” The CEAFA Knights once again came up short in the chase for the overall championship as they settled for the first-place finish with a score of 845 points. After their heart-breaking six-point defeat in the overall scoring two years ago, CEAFA failed to keep it close against their long-term rivals in the last two years. But despite their shortcoming,

Aquinian teams battle BU, Mariners in exhibition games By Karen Daniele Besmonte

AQUINAS UNIVERSITY basketball squads faced off with Bicol University Polangui Campus (BUPC) women’s basketball team and Mariners’ Polytechnic Colleges Foundation (MPCF) men’s cagers in gritty basketball exhibition games played on September 10 and 13, 2013 respectively at the AUL Dome. AUL cagebelles squeaked past BU, 71-68, in a nail-biter but the men’s team was annihilated by MPCF, 77-36. In the first game played during the opening of the intramurals,

THE COLLEGE of Nursing and Health Sciences (CNHS) wins this year’s intercollegiate cheerdance competition first prize during the intramurals opening ceremonies, marking their third consecutive championship, on September 10, 2013 at the AUL Dome. It was a match between the four colleges of the university, vying for a trophy, three thousand pesos in cash and glory. But for the CNHS Vipers, led by team captain Kevin G. Rangel (4 BSN) CNHS TAKES, PAGE 15