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The Westernian Pioneer @thewesternianpioneer

The Official Student Publication (English) of the University of Batangas High School Department, Division of Batangas City, Region IV-A CALABARZON JANUARY- DECEMBER 2020 VOL. XXXVIII | NO. 2

“WIT H WO RDS, WE GO VERN MEN”

SURVIVAL, RECOVERY

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Batangas remains under GCQ as cases surge to 10,000

UB prexy lays out ‘more aggressive’ approach to protect employees, institution

BY: KIT BRIAN DIMATATAC

BY: KYLA GIELYNE GUINIHIN

aving a total of 10,857 COVID-19 cases as of December 6, the province of Batangas will remain under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) for the entire month of December, as per the mandate of President Rodrigo Duterte upon the recommendation of the Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases.

o address the long-term effects of coronavirus disease pandemic on the institution, the university President Dr. Hernando B. Perez emphasized the need to go ‘more aggressive’ in facing the crisis as part of the institution’s survival and recovery plan. Although the University of Meanwhile, Dr. Perez claimed Batangas is not a distressed that the administration must institution, Dr. Perez, emphasized consider going forward with that there is a need to prepare a online platforms to ensure continuous recovery plan in case continued education for students. the enrollment The president rate is low. believes that even “To prepare the this pandemic plan, I would like seems to hamper the UB officers us in so many and executives to ways, education join in making a should still continuous plan prevail no for the university matter what. because this task “The needs suggestion sur vival of brilliant minds,” plan aims he stated. Thus, to be more DR. HERNANDO B. PEREZ with the aid of aggressive UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT every concerned and to offer individual, the purely online president believes education,” for more prosperous results. the university president said. The university president Moreover, Dr. Perez proposed to reduce the explained that the budget for research and have administration will strict instructions regarding implement blended learning that the approval of conferences will integrate both classroom especially abroad, which will and online learning upon be attended by the employees. advisory of the government.

However, Batangas has maintained to have the lowest number of active cases in the Calabarzon region with 495 active cases, which is far lower than its neighboring provinces namely Cavite with 2,635, Laguna with 1,059, Rizal with 1,157, and Quezon with 989. As per the guidelines of the IATF, there are numerous criteria used by the agency to determine the quarantine classification of a province and not just merely rely on the number of active cases. Furthermore, the agency argued that the province only depends on the national government’s Oplan Kalinga program but does not take action in putting up isolation facilities, citing Lipa and Batangas City to be the only ones with its own fully functioning facilities while the rest are still using those with no adequate equipment and are not designed for this purpose. Aside from Batangas, areas that remained under GCQ until the end of the year are Metro Manila, Iloilo City, Tacloban City, Lanao del Sur, Iligan, and Davao City while the rest of the country will be under modified GCQ.

Covid-19 forced us to adapt and we are veering towards distance education earlier than planned

PIONEERING CHANGE UB launches Pioneer TV amid ‘new normal’

BY: NHEL GUTIERREZ

espite the adversities in the new normal, the University of Batangas Publications remains consistent in delivering truthful and

compelling stories as it successfully launched the PIONEER TV, an online platform for covering school concerns and local events for the UBian community.

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With its mandate of delivering right information through flexible strategies, the University of Batangas Culture, Arts and Publications in Basic Education (CAPBE) Office has aired the pilot episode of PIONEER TV on November 5 via the official Facebook page of the university. PIONEER TV, the first in the city, is projected to cater news, announcements, and community concerns and events as the university’s premiere online TV for the UBian community.

According to Dr. Redentor Rodriguez, director of the CAPBE Office, despite the significant challenges and changes brought by the “new normal”, PIONEER TV will provide and set new parameters in the field of journalism for the benefit of every UBian. “In our efforts to sustain our goal to deliver news and announcements through responsible campus journalism, we came up with an idea of launching an online platform where we could spread awareness, updates, and good vibes to our fellow UBians,” Dr. Rodriguez said. After a series of calamities and disasters in the province, PIONEER TV proved to be successful in covering events within the local areas of the community while seeking for positive changes in the face of the pandemic.

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PHOTO BY Pioneer TV

ALWAYS IN THE KNOW. University of Batangas launches Pioneer TV through facebook live to keep the Brahmans updated of the current happenings inside and outside the campus amidst the pandemic.

PHOTO BY Mark David Maaño

FULLY ONLINE. University of Batangas President Hernando B. Perez intends to use ‘more aggressive’ approach using online and blended learning to push through with continued education during the COVID-19 pandemic according to his proposed survival and recovery plan for the institution.

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COVID 19 PUTS... page 03 As the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic put a lot of the university’s employees out of work, University of Batangas helped its...

UB geared for online class, new normal protocols

UNIVERSITY OF BATANGAS

BY: KIT BRIAN DIMATATAC

ith the restrictions imposed by the quarantine protocols for this coming S.Y. 2020-2021, University of Batangas administrators reassured that they are prepared for the proposed new normal online method of teaching, as they have been implementing the blended learning approach for three years already.

Since 2017, the university has been using the UBian Learning Management System (LMS), an online education hub that provides a large set of features to support efficient teaching and learning, which is powered by NEO, a product of Cypher Learning, a California-based company that specializes in providing learning platforms for organizations around the world. After a series of natural calamities with the pandemic, Taal volcano eruption, strong typhoons, and earthquakes disrupting classes, the UBian LMS proved to be greatly efficient where as those compelled teachers and students to stay home to teach or study online. To make up for the suspended classes caused by the Taal Volcano eruption, the university was able to utilize the UBian LMS to be able to cope with missed lessons and school works and keep in track with the teachers’ syllabi and current school calendar. Dr. Miraflor Gutierrez, Senior High School (SHS) principal, stated that LMS was used so as not to rush the students and teachers when classes resumed, considering that whatever the circumstances may have been, they have no choice but to follow and do everything

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as is stated in the Department of Education’s (DepEd) agenda. “At first, many students were complaining about it but then look at where we are now, they are the ones who benefited from these, which goes on to show that all that we are doing are for the benefit and best of the students themselves alone,” Gutierrez added. As per the mandate of DepEd, students who were affected by the Taal eruption would have to make up for the weeks-long class suspension by going to school on Saturdays from February to April. With this, the SHS department devised adjustments on the schedules allotting every Friday of February, which accounts for the four days that was cancelled during the disaster, considering that only a week has been scraped off the schedule since they used the LMS during the second and third week of suspension.

DepEd admits lack of quality assurance on released modules

ARTWORK BY: VINCE NIGEL SON

7 in 10 Ubian ‘depressed’ as online class starts

BY: SIDNEE MADLANGBAYAN

n response to the complaints over the multiple errors found in Self-Learning Modules (SLM), the Department of Education (DepEd) announced that the distributed modules did not totally underwent quality assurance screening due to time constraint this pandemic, advising the public to use #DepEdErrorWatch to call their attention.

UB TOPS 2020 ELECTRICAL... page 04 The University of Batangas ranked as the Top One Best Electrical Engineering School in the country for the year 2020 based on the latest licensure board examination...

In an interview at ABS-CBN’s TeleRadyo, DepEd Undersecretary Diosdado San Antonio said that unpreparedness and lack of financial support caused errors in the modules amidst the ranging novel coronavirus despite the operational quality assurance mechanisms.

To recall, DepEd announced one of the issues in multiple choice questions where the answer key of having tattoos yields to criminality, noting that some of the errors in printed modules were posted online. In line with this, San Antonio urged the public to verify if the modules

were from DepEd, knowing that the perception of the netizens when it comes to education will end up attacking the department without supporting evidences. Moreover, DepEd launched an official hashtag, #DepEdErrorWatch to easily trace module errors.

UB launches first virtual graduation amidst quarantine restrictions BY: KYLA GIELYNE GUINIHIN

ecause of the community quarantine restrictions set in the city to avoid mass gatherings, University of Batangas held its first virtual graduation for more than 2,000 graduates from the Elementary to High School levels.

UB: THIRD HIGHEST... page 05 The University of Batangas proved their “Undeniably the best” mantra after being recognized by the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation (PACUCOA) ...

“with WORDS, we GOVERN men”

PHOTO BY Mark David Maaño

SOAR HIGH. Mr. Leo Martinez, guest speaker for the university’s first virtual graduation, pushes UBSHS students to keep dreaming in becoming successful professionals in the future.

Dr. Redentor S. Rodriguez, producer of the said virtual graduation, explained that such graduation aims to make it special and symbolic for the graduates and their parents while respecting health standards and provisions during the Covid-19 community quarantine. “The content of the livestream is definitely what we see on an actual graduation, we show their picture with their names and nag-introduce pa kami ng guest

speaker,” Dr. Rodriguez explained. Futhermore, Noraine Jem Punzalan, top student from the Accountancy and Business Management Strand, expressed her gratitude upon being the speaker during the online ceremony. “First time kasing magkaroon ng online graduation and ako ang napiling mag-speech at isang honor ang makapagsalita on behalf of my graduates,” Punzalan stressed.

BY: JAYNIAH VINIELLE BARZA

espite the comfort brought by online classes during this time of pandemic, students of the University of Batangas appeals of experiencing depression as the days of staying in their home increases resulting to low performance in school. In a survey conducted by The Westernian Pioneer and Tunog Pamantasan, 7 out of 10 Ubian students struggle with depression due to a hard time adjusting from school to home set-up for online classes. “Akala ko noong una, madali kasi nasa bahay lamang pero unti-unti na rin akong nahihirapan at ilang gabi na rin akong umiiyak dahil hindi ko na kayang balansehin ang mga school requirements ko,” a Senior High School (SHS) student said. She added that she continuously felt empty because she was not able to bond with her friends and relatives during special occasions to comply with quarantine protocols. Furthermore, a SHS teacher also expressed his hardships in dealing with depression since he encountered conflicts in managing students’ records and even stress in slow internet connections along with personal problems. Meanwhile, the university administers virtual counselling for those suffering students and teachers to help them cope up in today’s situation and learn selfimprovement techniques.

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No city fiesta to prioritize Taal evacuees BY: ARON RAYNER MELO

ith many towns left devastated due to the eruption of Taal Volcano, Batangas City Mayor Beverly Dimacuha has called off the city’s annual fiesta celebrations to provide additional support for the evacuees’ basic necessities. According to the city mayor, the decision was made to extend extra help by donating goods and conducting relief operations for the residents of the affected towns with the funds which were initially supposed to be allotted for the three-day grand celebration. “Instead of spending on the city fiesta, Batangas City will assist our brothers and sisters from the heavily-affected municipalities,” Dimacuha said in an emergency city government meeting on Jan. 13. Moreover, she stated that all planned festivities were also scrapped as safety precaution in anticipation of possible earthquakes as the Taal Volcano continued to spew ash. Among the cancelled events were the Binibining Lungsod ng Batangas and the city parade slated for Jan. 15 and 16, respectively, along with other festivities which were supposed to be the highlight of the fiesta. Congressman Marvey Mariño, on the other hand, encouraged all residents and city government employees to also cancel their own preparations at home and help those who have been evacuated from the lakeshore towns of Taal instead. “Mabuti naisipan na itigil muna ang fiesta, delikado pa at baka maraming mapahamak kapag sumabog ulit ang bulkan,” Dawn Angeline Ibon, a G12 student expressed.

COVID-19 puts employees out of work UB aids workers to cope with suspended income BY: KIT BRIAN DIMATATAC

s the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) put a lot of the university’s employees out of work, University of Batangas helped its struggling employees with goods and cash assistance as they find other ways to get by. Milette De Torres, External P r o g r a m s coordinator, said that they want the employees of the university to feel that nobody is left behind even during a pandemic and that they are not just ordinary employees, but also a family within the walls of the institution. “As the world wrestles with the unprecedented implications of the COVID-19

This just shows how the university really cares for its employees, I just hope that things [will] start to change soon MRS. DIVINE MAGNAYE JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER

pandemic, the C o m m u n i t y Relations, Alumni and Placement Office of the u n i v e r s i t y continuously provides support to its valued employees,” she added. The university also saw the need for intensified support for the ‘frontliners’ who devoted themselves and rendered services to save lives and prevent the

PHOTO BY Mark David Maaño

SAFETY FIRST. In response to the increasing number of COVID-19 cases, the administration reminded UBians that regular sanitization is a must to counter the threats of the virus.

spread of Covid-19, raising funds over a span of two weeks to buy the needed personal protective equipment (PPE) for those working in hospitals and laboratories in Batangas. From the first wave of the fundraising drive, the university, through the Community Extension Services Office, was able to raise Php 22,500.00 to provide the first fifteen sets of PPEs donated to the health work forces of Batangas Medical Center on April 20.

“Nakakatuwa ang ating unibersidad dahil kahit may ganitong pandemic ay hindi pa rin nila nakakalimutan kaming mga empleyado,” Mrs. Divine Magnaye, a Junior High School teacher, stated. She added that the assistance given by the university is a huge help especially that there is a freeze in their income during this crisis and that it is nice to be in an institution that is considerate enough to help them especially during these times.

Batangas City keeps up pandemic resiliency BY: SHANIA GAMARA

TWP, TP vow to reclaim victory in NSPC 2021 BY: KYLA GIELYNE GUINIHIN

he Westernian Pioneer and Tunog Pamantasan are eager to get back and surpass this year’s performance after bagging fewer awards in the 2020 National Schools Press Conference (NSPC) as compared to the previous years.

From having 25 (NSPC) qualifiers last year, the teams were hampered this year’s Regional Schools Press Conference (RSPC), leaving 11 students to qualify for the NSPC. Kyla Mharee Guinhawa, the publication’s Editor-in-Chief, was awarded as one of the Most Outstanding Campus Journalists in The Philippines and ranked 2nd in Copyreading and Headline Writing while the TV Broadcasting and Scriptwriting Teams for the English and Filipino categories ranked 4th and 7th place respectively in the Best News Cast category. Renz Contreras and Antoine Dichoso ranked second as best news anchor and scriptwriter respectively, and Celeste Cananua placed fourth for best news reporter in the English category while Mary Mulingtapang set for seventh in the Filipino category.

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PHOTO BY Jamaeiah Ericka Macaraig

CALCULATED RISK. In line with Mayor Dimacuha’s safety protocols, LGU personnel conducts regular monitoring within the plaza Mabini to secure the health standards of the citizens and maintain the ordinance against COVID 19.

With the COVID-19 measures being implemented in the city, Batangas City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMO) has sheltered 7 families from the barangays of Paharang Silangan and Sirang Lupa together with 430 families comprising

1,721 individuals in 12 evacuation centers as typhoon Ulysses hit last November. Moreover, the city government collaborated with The Red Cross Batangas Chapter, International Federation of Red Cross, and Red Crescent Societies in the distribution of

ICC volunteers drop due to COVID-19 BY: SIDNEE MADLANGBAYAN

The volunteers of the annual International Coastal Clean-up (ICC) had significantly dropped in the year 2020 due to the aftermath of a series of typhoons in the country and the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources said people still participated by cleaning their homes and surrounding areas. Normally, volunteers from over 100 countries clean local beaches and coastal areas annually to show their support.

non-food items such as buckets, basins and kitchen utensils to the victims of the typhoon Rolly (Goni) in barangays of Dela Paz Proper and Tabangao Dao. To recall, the city government’s pandemic response kicked off under the implementation of Mayor Beverly

espite the challenges faced due to the distress of disasters and calamities amid the new normal in the country, the local government units of Batangas City never failed to lend a hand to Batanguenos in providing their needs. Dimacuha in May, months before the series of typhoons hit CALABARZON and other surrounding regions in Luzon. With the amendment of the EBDMT task force and the Defense and Security Services (DSS) personnel, the LGU conducted regular monitoring

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UB collects over 100K for Typhoon Rolly victims BY: SHANIA GAMARA

The University of Batangas collected over P112,000 of donation for the typhoon victims from its donation drive during the aftermath of super typhoon Rolly in the province. Upon hearing about donation, the university immediately offered help noting that some residents were not able to pack their necessities. After hearing the distribution of donation for the victims, the residents felt relieved despite many people getting involved with internet scam or phishing, especially when it comes to online transactions.

of Plaza Mabini in accordance with Mayor Dimacuha’s order of security. Moreover, the Batangas City Police Station (BCPS) took action against those who were illegally strolling in Plaza Mabini to ensure that they comply with the health standards, safety protocols

and ordinances against COVID 19. City Health Office medical workers were also expected to participate in a medical check-up with evacuees at Libjo Elementary School to ensure that they are in good health and following the health and safety protocols against COVID 19.

5K COVID-19 swab tests, fixed price’ – Duque BY: MICAH GIFT CALIBOSO

The Department of Health and Department of Trade and Industry have declared that laboratories can only charge Php 3,800 to Php 5,000 for the Covid-19 swab test starting November 25. Health Secretary Francisco Duque warned that facilities which will violate the price range will be suspended for 15 days with a Php 20,000 fine for the first violation and 30 days with a Php 30,000 fine for the second violation. Furthermore, a third violation would warrant the revocation of the license.

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UB tops 2020 Electrical Engineering Board Exam

TOP-NOTCH. University of Batangas hailed as the best electrical engineering schools in the Philippines, dominating the 2020 electrical engineering board exam with a 100% passing rate out of 55 students.

he University of Batangas ranked as the Top One Best Electrical Engineering School in the country for the year 2020 based on the latest licensure board examination data of the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

In the recent Electrical Engineering Licensure Exam, the university obtained a 100% passing rate after all 55 of its students have passed, besting among 44 schools and universities across the archipelago. The licensure exam took place on September 4 and 5 on designated testing centers, months after the PRC had announced the cancellation of the schedule of board exams in March and April due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to PRC, the results are classified according to a minimum of 25 students who passed the exam with only the first-timers included in the data. Meanwhile, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines – Sto. Tomas ranked second followed by Batangas State University – Alangilan and University of the

Duterte’s COVID-19 response fail BY: KIT BRIAN DIMATATAC

he Duterte administration has been claiming that as early as March 16, they had implemented lockdowns in major regions in response to the increasing Covid-19 cases in the country, but many critics argued that the overall response to the pandemic has been filled with incompetence and error.

BY: NHEL GUTIERREZ

PHOTO BY University of Batangas

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Philippines – Diliman, all having a perfect passing score rate. As a reference, the University of Batangas had previously topped the licensure exam in September 2019 along with the University of the Philippines – Diliman, both attaining a 100% passing rate. The Registered Electrical Engineering board exam covered the topics in Mathematics, Engineering Sciences and Allied Subjects, and Electrical Engineering Professional Subjects. Pursuant to Presidential Proclamation No. 922 dated March 8, 2020, declaring a State of Public Health Emergency throughout the country, the PRC had previously postponed the board exam and advised the examinees and employees to adopt a work-from-home arrangement and skeletal workforce while

Students laud university for consideration amid COVID-19 BY: KIT BRIAN DIMATATAC

s the cases of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (Covid-19) progresses, University of Batangas Senior High School (UBSHS) students praised the department’s move to cancel the final examinations of the SHS students, in line with the memorandum of the Department of Education. In a department memo released by DepEd, Education Secretary Leonor Briones announced that final quarter examinations initially scheduled March 16-20 “will no longer be administered.”

With this, UBSHS Principal Dr. Miraflor Gutierrez reiterated that in order to complete the grades of students, teachers would need to compute the remaining activities students accomplished during the last quarter. “The activities that they still need to comply to their respective teachers will serve as the basis in computing their grades as per the mandate of DepEd sa amin,” Dr. Gutierrez explained. Furthermore, the principal also stated that apart from cancelling the final exams and other school works, she implored teachers to give

under the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ). In line with the rescheduling of events, the PRC recently conducted the Online Oathtaking of the New Professional Electrical Engineers through zoom on August 28 spearheaded by chairman Francis V. Mapile and member Jaime V. Mendoza. The university, as well as the board exam passers, received commendation on social media for their exemplary performance in the licensure exam, recognizing their efforts of clinching the crown amid the pandemic. For Carl Cedric Hernandez, a student who plans to take Electrical Engineering in college, the results of the performance of the university will maximize the chances of the students in passing the electrical engineering board

students an extra mile of consideration when it comes to grading them, especially at trying times like this. Gail Gomez, a Grade 11 student, stressed that the cancellation of the final examination is a great way to ease the burden on her part since she does not have a strong internet connection and a lot of problems may occur while taking the online examination. “Malaking tulong ang cancellation ng final exams kasi mababawasan na ang intindihin namin, lalo na at medyo marami pa rin ang mga activities na kailangang maipasa,” Gomez explained.

exam in the future. “Masaya ako and at the same time proud dahil dito ako mageelectrical engineering at mas ma-maximize yung chance ko na makapasa sa board exam,” Hernandez said. Meanwhile, the university’s triumph in electrical engineering is expected to increase the enrollees for the next academic year, noting that it can perform well despite the adversities brought by the new normal. “Pinatunayan ng UB na hindi ito nagpapahuli sa ganitong larangan at patunay na ito sa kalidad ng edukasyon na ibinibigay sa paaralang ito,” Hernandez added. For the record, the University of the Philippines still holds the record for the highest passing rate across eight engineering fields with an average of 99.50%.

Batangueños cope with challenges of COVID-19 BY: STEPHANIE ARTEZA

Amidst the threats brought by Covid-19 pandemic, Batangueños remained standing tall as they find other ways to cope up with the health and economic problems. With the 7.3 million jobless Filipinos as per the report of the Philippine Statistics Authority, many try to earn through various ways like online selling, trading cryptocurrencies, and other incomegenerating activities. “Since no work, no pay, I decided to sell sticky rice snacks online para at least may extra money ako for our daily needs,” Donnalyn Adao, a teacher from University of Batangas, expressed. Aside from online selling, students shared that they coped up with the struggles through different earning sites like Buzzbreak and Cashzine.

Dr. Josh San Pedro, a co-convener of the Coalition of People’s Right to Health, said that health authorities have been complacent as Duterte attempted to downplay the threats and calls of the Filipino people for a lockdown in early February. As neighboring countries like Singapore, Taiwan, and Vietnam imposed early travel restrictions and emergency measures, the Philippines was noticeably late to follow because they don’t want to “upset relations with China” according to the Department of Health (DOH). It was only in mid-March that improvements were made to testing capacity, despite locally-made kits being ready as early as February and with a cut budget for disease surveillance and epidemiology, contact tracing became difficult in Metro Manila. “Community transmission has not stopped. When we can see that the number of cases are decreasing daily is when we can assume the curve is flattening. DOH data is based on those who are confirmed positive with the virus but it has thousands of backlogs which we don’t yet know the results,” San Pedro warned, amid DOH claiming that the country is starting to “flatten the curve” although it clearly is not.

What to expect for the ‘new normal’ school year? BY: KIT BRIAN DIMATATAC

s the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic affected 27 million learners and 1 million teachers in the country, the Department of Education (DepEd) declared that ‘new normal’ classes would start on August 24 or earlier, given that no face-to-face learning will be done while there is no vaccine yet. With this, DepEd is proposing to the schools a list of possible alternative online and offline learning methods, urging them to start training the teachers and readjust their budget allocation to cater the needs for online learning. Online education has been proven to be an effective teaching and learning method by numerous researches over the past years, citing the advantages to be increased flexibility, improved communication and collaboration skills, better time management and critical thinking skills. Online education is being deeply considered as vital to every school’s contingency plan to maintain resilience and academic continuity amid the ‘new normal’ protocols brought by the pandemic.

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HS pubs host online writing contest for aspiring scribes

PHOTO BY University of Batangas

BY: KIT BRIAN DIMATATAC

BRAHMAN PRIDE. Dr. Hernando B. Perez received the award from the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation (PACUCOA) after University of Batangas (UB) was held as the third place for this year’s accreditation.

imed at highlighting the importance of stopping the propagation of fake news amid the Covid-19 pandemic, The Westernian Pioneer and Tunog Pamantasan organized the “Pioneering Pen-demic 2020”, an online writing contest which was open to all junior and senior high school students of University of Batangas. With the theme “Might of pens: Writing what is right and shading misinformation”, it was held on April 20-23 and was divided into four categories such as essay writing contest, poster making, infographics, and developmental communication, with more than 50 participants. “We started this initiative to make our intentions, as journalists, to be promoted even more especially during this pandemic when fake news is circulating everywhere, anytime, and at a fast rate mostly because of people who are falling for it,” Mr. Carl Ivan B. Villanueva, the publications’ adviser, said. He added that since students have nothing to do that much because of the quarantine restrictions, it would also be a great time for them to refine their skills in writing as they take part in this endeavor. In the essay writing contests under English category, Lexie Cordova, bagged first place while Czejan Punzalan triumphed under the Filipino category. Meanwhile, Mariechi Alferez won first place in the poster making contest, and John Marasigan for the infographics contest.

Pope urges families put phone down, talk during mealtimes BY: KIT BRIAN DIMATATAC

ope Francis emphasized the importance of talking and reconnecting with each other during mealtimes instead of using their mobile phones, in light of the studies proven through statistics that 3 in every 5 families sit in complete silence during meal time. In his message at midday angelus prayers in St. Peter’s Square, the pope said that Jesus, Mary and Joseph is an example that families today should follow as they pray, work and communicate with each other. Known for using social media to further spread his message to greater audience, he appealed that to have a happier family life, people should focus on fostering connection to those around them. “At that table there is the kind of silence that you might find at mass. But they don’t communicate with one another,” he said, after asking if their families talk at meal tables or are they occupied with their mobile phones. “We must resume dialogue in the family: fathers, parents, children, grandparents and siblings must communicate with one another. This is a task to undertake today, on the day of the Holy Family,” he added. This is not the first time that the Pontiff has called onto people for the prolonged use of people of their mobile phones, especially during mass. the

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UB: third highest number of accredited programs in 2020 - PACUCOA BY: HANNAH JANE PEREZ

he University of Batangas proved their “Undeniably the best” mantra after being recognized by the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation (PACUCOA) as the institution with the highest number of accredited programs in Region IV, ranking third in the county for the year 2020. Following the University of Santo Tomas and University of Mindanao, the university clinched the spot along with the University of Batangas- Lipa Campus as the organization with the highest number of candidate programs in the Philippines. Through a post on his official Facebook account, the University President, Dr. Hernando B. Perez expressed how he was honored by receiving the awards from PACUCOA, commending all the

administrators and teaching and non-teaching staff of both campuses for the milestone achievement. “As President of University of Batangas, I am honored to receive from PACUCOA the award of being the university with the third highest number of accredited programs in the Philippines following University of Santo Tomas and University of Mindanao. UB also honored to receive the award of being the institution with

the highest accredited programs in Region IV,” Dr. Perez stated. “I want to thank all the administrators, Teaching and nonteaching staff for making these possible,” he added. The University was not a stranger in receiving recognitions for in 1987, PACUCOA first granted the Western Philippine Colleges (WPC), now University of Batangas, the Deregulated Status and Level I Accreditation to Liberal Arts, Commerce and Education

(LACOMED) Moreover, UB also obtained the Level IV PACUCOA Accreditation in Elementary and Secondary Education, Business Administration and Arts and Sciences the following years. For Alexandrei Garcia, a senior high student, this achievement proves that UB will always be one of the universities in the country that will provide courses and programs that are competitive, yet quality education.

TWP, TP EIC seals 5th in Nat’l Journalism Cup BY: KYLA GIELYNE GUINIHIN AND KIT DIMATATAC

hristopher Capuno, the Editor-in-Chief of The Westernian Pioneer and Tunog Pamantasan, bagged fifth place in the Ditto Sarmiento Journalism Cup 2020’s Search For The Ten Outstanding Young Journalists, an online competition with over 600 participants nationwide, last October 24, bringing pride and glory to the institution. In an online interview, Capuno asserted that he wanted to be an inspiration for the other journalist to keep on filling the responsibility in being the shields of truthful and accurate information. “Truly, it is a huge honor to be hailed as one of the top journalist, with that I realized that I need to influence more people to take part in journalism because that is what our

world needs today,” he said. The publication’s EIC added that he encouraged the students in the university to enter the field of journalism and the administration to strengthen the programs in enhancing the student’s writing, speaking and critical thinking skills. Moreover, Capuno notched the top spot in the 2020 Special Feature Press Conference under the

same organization. “I’ve been on this category for almost 5 years, and it is fulfilling to attain another fruitful achievement along with the guide of my mentors,” he exclaimed. The said competition is composed of 4 battery tests, namely News, Feature, Editorial, and Sports Writing, where the winners were determined using the cumulative score from the said categories.

PHOTO BY University of Batangas

PANDEMIC REPORT AS OF DECEMBER 2020

449,400 CASES

418,687 8,733 RECOVERIES

DEATHS

90.2 % MILD AND ASYMPTOMATIC CASES

191

RT-PCR LICENSED LABORATORIES Source: Department of Health

E D I TO RI A L

OPINION

NO ONE

LEFT BEHIND Too Laid-Back KEY OF C

Christopher Jardine Capuno

It sure is fulfilling to hear the applause of officials for Filipino resilience. But keep in mind that it is of no value, had they not acted accordingly.

midst the pandemic, Filipino people became comfortable and more often than not, lulled into a false sense of security thinking that the worst is over. This would be a mistake. So long as the people are sound asleep, complacency might be the enemy.

JANUARY-MAY 2020 VOL. XXXVIII | NO. 2

EDITORIAL BOARD Editors in Chief: Christopher Jardine Capuno, Lykha Mae Gonzales Associate Editors in Chief: Kit Brian Dimatatac, Kyle Ezra Delos Reyes Managing Editors: Bjorn Del Deade, Jayniah Vinielle Barza Business and Circulation: Antoine Clarence Miranda, Gielyne Guinihin News Editor: Nhel Gutierrez, Gielyne Guinihin Feature Editor: Bjorn Del Deade, Christopher Jardine Capuno Science and Technology Editor: Robert Patrick Talabis, Ranier Villanueva Sports Editor: Van Aeros Torres, River Dale Evangelio Chief Cartoonist: Vince Nigel Son Assistant Chief Cartoonist: Clarisse Jenn Baloy Chief Photojournalist: Jamaeiah Ericka Macaraig Assistant Chief Photojournalists: Arielle John Tolentino Chief Graphics and Design: Aron Rayner Melo Assistant Graphics and Design: Arlynn De Ramos Chief Radio Broadcaster: Rowel Mauhay Chief TV Broadcaster: Celeste Cananua Reporters: Stephanie Arteza, Shania Gamara, Sidnee Madlangbayan, Hannah Jane Perez, Ma. Micah Gift M. Caliboso, Princess Endaya Advisers: Mr. Carl Ivan Villanueva, Mr. Michael Justin de Mesa, Ms. Mylene Holgado, Mr. Charles Leoj Roxas, Mr. Julius Eric Mendoza Principals: Dr. Hilaria Guico, Dr. Miraflor Gutierrez Culture Arts and Publications in Basic Education Director: Dr. Redentor Rodriguez

“with WORDS, we GOVERN men”

Just recently, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire noted in a virtual press briefing that based on the drift of reported COVID-19 cases, the average number of cases per week has decreased to about 1,000 to 1,200 cases. However, with the downward shift of coronavirus cases, the Department of Health (DOH) reminded the public that “we cannot be complacent at this point.” Clearly, the fighting against this deadly virus is not yet over. These thousands of “lessened” cases recorded every day are still accumulating overtime, and this is something to worry about. The Filipino people should never take COVID-19 as a joke, it continues to take countless lives and destroy the world economy. More so, with the upcoming Christmas season, we can’t appear nonchalant because an unwelcome increase in cases is anticipated especially that shopping and social gatherings are prevalent. And so, Health Secretary Francisco T. Duque notified, “Let us limit the number of people in social gatherings and activities, preferably to people within the same household. Avoid activities that require travel to areas with higher quarantine classification and keep activities as short as possible.” With the trend of reported active cases, even the DOH acknowledged the possible recoil of coronavirus this upcoming holiday season, a reason to not be so complacent. Another thing is that most Filipinos may have to wait until 2022 to get a shot of the coronavirus vaccine according to vaccine czar Sec. Carlito Galvez as frontliners and vulnerable groups will be prioritized. “Only maybe in 2022 we’ll have maybe equitable access with the [vaccine],” he stated. Without the COVID-19 vaccine easily accessible for the years to come while going out exposed, it is as if we are playing with fire. Lastly, we go about thanking our frontline workers as we’ve witnessed their dedication to put an end to this pandemic and get things back to normal. However, our thankyous would just be an understatement. If we truly want to thank them for their sacrifices, we won’t be complacent, and pull all the stops to not contract the virus; this includes practice of minimum health standards. So, let’s just save it: all the fun and entertainment. We should always bear in mind that above all leisure, our safety comes first. After all, parties, get together, and shopping is not all there is. In the end, being complacent during these trying times is equalled roughly as hammering nails to our own coffins.

s the country falls under a major pandemic crisis, University of Batangas (UB) was forced to resort to home-based learning education, which is the Learning Management System (LMS) that the university has implemented for quite some time, puts students at an unequal footing where those lacking in technological resources are at a great disadvantage. Due to this unprecedented situation, the administration has decided to conduct all upcoming examinations and activities through this online platform so as to follow the set school calendar. Some were forced to go outside and risk their health and safety. It is true that the online system can be a solution, but it can only be viable if all students have access to that remedy. More so, during this time, their health and safety should always be the top and foremost priority. With students expressing their troubles with the online exams, the administration has decided to go by the Department of Education’s directives to cancel the final examinations for graduating students and use whatever they have accomplished for their grades. Furthermore, other examinations would be administered once students are back in school. Meanwhile, a teacher from the university also expressed her thoughts on the issue in a Facebook post, which was later deleted, calling

out students to be grateful for the university’s decision instead of being grumblers who do not want to use LMS.

A solution can only be called as such only if it could apply to the majority. The administration has done well to address the situation, but this is only the start and surely, a lot more will happen as we go into the new normal.

Their rants and concerns are not

voiced out because they are lazy. It is because they care about their grades and they do not want to fail just because they are technologically disadvantaged. The administration should had seen this earlier so that things would not have escalated so quickly and to such a degree. Nonetheless, we would like to commend how UB chose to make the situation better for all of us. The university, in every way, is trying its best to reach out to the students’ needs and pleas and to let us know that they are one with us. We now understand that we should not hurry things and be patient, but we must not suppress our voice because it is only when we speak up, that we are heard. Truly, the university has never failed to consider its students. Time is all they ask. They are willing to give considerations for the sake of the student body. We congratulate everyone, the students and the administration, for proving that voices can be heard even during the darkest of times.

A Selfish Cause

ast May 5, 2020, the fight for the network, press freedom, and employment was put to an end as the Philippine Congress approved the ABS-CBN shutdown depriving more than 4,000 ABS-CBN employees of their jobs. The House Committee on Legislative Franchises, voting 70 to 11, last July 10, denied the extension of the ABS-CBN franchise. Thereafter, the cease-and-desist order was filed against the network but was it for the greater good? No, it was definitely not. By voting not to renew the ABS-CBN franchise, Philippine lawmakers proved their allegiance to the President as allegations raised the conflict between Duterte and ABS-CBN. This resentment against ABSCBN goes way back to 2016 when Duterte accused the network of bias, favoring his political opponent. The bitterness got worse as the media covered Duterte’s war on drugs and reported bitter facts. As a result of the President’s tantrum, the network had to let go more than 4,000 employees. This 4,000 are only regular

workers and does not include part-timers and those indirectly affected by the shutdown. Is this a president that cares for his people or a president that cares for his reputation? Also, many Filipinos rely on the ABS-CBN network for news updates, especially for emergencies, which was inconsiderately taken from them. “Many isolated and disasterprone villages unreached by other networks can dangerously lose their access to national news, including government pronouncements,” the Foreign

TRUTH BEARER Lykha Mae Gonzales

It is never a good cause to carry out one’s personal grudges, knowing that it will not serve the greater good. As leaders, the people should come first before one’s own selfish gain.

Correspondents Association of the Philippines said. Knowing its consequences, Congress still selfishly pushed the shutdown of ABS-CBN. With their authority, thousands of Filipinos are now unemployed and several areas have no access to news and information.

The ABS-CBN shutdown is enough proof that this country’s leaders prioritize their own gains rather than the people’s needs. The network that is truly in the service of the Filipinos is overthrown for the favor of those with unrighteous power.

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EDITORIAL

On the Ball KIT CAN TELL Kit Brian Dimatatac

Whether or not the new infrastructure would be a problem now relies entirely to students’ actions and decisions, the future actions of the administration would only coincide with what they do.

he recent opening of WalterMart raised many concerns for being established just steps away from the university. Though it offers varied services from being a one-stop shop to housing different fast food chains, the newly-constructed infrastructure was not spared from negative criticisms.

The establishment of the shopping center so close to the university gives students easy access to different services that they need. Given the fact that there is already a bookstore situated in the campus, still, there are things and services that the students need that could not be accommodated by the bookstore, amid their efforts to house and offer different things. Some people point out that the frequent presence of students in this kind of establishment has its dark side, as even if they do not intend to buy something, they often play the role of customers to justify their presence in this place. However, it is also necessary that students find balance between school and leisure. The administration of the WalterMart Batangas City is with the promotion of responsible education as

they question students entering the establishment during school days. They are also cooperating with the university to not allow students who are wearing their uniforms and still have classes from entering, which requires the part of the school administrators to beef up security and bar students from getting out of campus grounds during their class hours. Definitely, the presence of WalterMart near the campus grounds cannot be called purely beneficial, nor detrimental. Thus, whether or not the mall’s construction becomes just another problem depends on how students set their priorities. The blame is no longer on the mall nor the school as students should be responsible enough to set the line. Now, the ball is in the students’ hands on how they can rule out the establishment as an asset, or as a burden.

Where We Stand

ust recently, the Senate passed Senate Bill No. 1224 or the Comprehensive Values Education Act, which mandates that elementary and high school students are to take values education, such as Good Manners and Right Conduct (GMRC) as a core subject, and introduced a welcome new policy, but one that feels quite out of place, given the fact that as we have it currently, ‘disciplined’ is clearly not a word that can define the adults responsible for leading us. In a hearing on the mandatory implementation of the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program, Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa could not help but let out an outburst when speaking with National Union of Students of the Philippines (NUSP) President Raoul Manuel, saying that he should be hanged. This was after the latter mentioned that the said program could easily be abused. Meanwhile, just recently, ABS-CBN Correspondent Chiara Zambrano reported that

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go narrated how he indulged in buying pirated DVDs from vendors in Davao, and even letting them know ahead of time when local government raids would come to their stalls. Needless to say, upholding the law should be a duty a lawmaker exemplifies at all times, not only when it fits his own agenda. Even the president has not been above such an idea. When the United States refused to reinstate Senator dela Rosa’s visa, President Rodrigo Duterte

had no hesitations on threatening to terminate the Visiting Forces Agreement between the Philippines and the US, not taking into account the repercussions such a decision could bring. The same applies when he authorized police forces around the country to kill our own citizens should they meet any resistance as his nation-wide crusade against illegal drugs raged on. How are we to expect that citizens will be morally upright and responsible if these are

RECKONING Nhel Gutierrez

There is no greater irony than passing a bill on the mandatory implementation of GMRC subjects at schools in a country where the very authoritative figures leading us are themselves, high-strung and undisciplined.

the people leading us? Make no mistake, given how chaotic and delinquent some of today’s youth can be, the policy that the GMRC bill seeks to implement might actually be necessary. However, if discipline is something our nation truly wants to instill in the youth, then maybe the ones governing us should first start acting it. From where we stand, the bill may serve a noble and meaningful purpose, but such policies will never work properly in the current status of the leadership in our country – not when the misfits who should be making the right decisions and guiding our country are themselves, misguided.

Insignificant Resolution LUCID CANDOR Kyla Gielyne Guinihin

“We have our own pace to follow. That said, unnecessary adjustments such as Resolution No. 79 should be put on hold to end this pandemic as soon as possible.”

ushing unwise decisions never produced a good outcome. That said, this is not the appropriate time to adjust the age restrictions from 21-60 years old to 15-65 years old for there is no justifiable significance in it. Way back on October 15, 2020, the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases authorized the modification of age-based stay-at-home restrictions or Resolution No. 79 is indeed a big mistake. Just two days before this announcement, October 13, 2020, the Philippines sadly tallied 344,713 confirmed COVID-19 cases. And to think that IATF will widen the age group allowed outside is just completely irrational. According to Pulse Asia, 71% of Filipinos regularly wash their hands, 55% of the population wear face masks when going outside, 33% at most observe physical distancing, 28% of the populace avoid crowded areas, and only 0.1% of Filipinos use face shields. If the 21-59 years old age group or simply adults cannot properly observe the restrictions and protocols, what will we expect from the complacent teenagers that are free to roam outside? The statistics are evidence of how Filipinos are undisciplined when it comes to the following protocols. Even if the IATF considered this data and still pursued the adjustment of age restriction, it just proves that the government is selfishly

fixated on making money. Another issue in this resolution is that COVID-19 poses a greater risk of infection among senior citizens. It would be like that the IATF is deliberately luring these people to their deaths by adjusting the age restriction to 65 years old. “Medyo concerning din yan. Kasi yung 65 and up, ang case fatality nyan is nasa 15 pataas,” Dr. Guido David of the OCTA research group said in a Teleradyo interview. Fixing the economy is just another sweet term for making money. Furthermore, it emphasizes how the government weighs this situation by prioritizing the economy over the health and welfare of the Filipinos. Adjustment of the age restriction will not solve the problem but create a bigger problem. The least they could do is wait for the vaccine before making unnecessary decisions. If we continue to rush things like this, more cases will emerge and this pandemic will undoubtedly be prolonged. This unprecedented situation requires not desperate measures but significant decisions. This Resolution No. 79 is not a sign of significance. Instead, it is solely an act of negligence.

Burn

reaking the silence on the prevailing issue of rape has always been a touchy subject for our society to deal with. The gist of it is simple, really – victims get sexually abused, they get blamed for the misdeed that was done to them, while rapists, more often than not, can continue to walk freely among us. And all because people can’t seem to keep it in their pants.

SHARP SHOOTER Jamaeiah Ericka Macaraig

“When the time comes and justice is finally given, we can only hope that these degenerates burn for their crimes; as they rightfully deserve.”

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Even back during the medieval days – where women wore baggy, hard to manipulate clothing, rapists were very much around. Meanwhile, in this day and age, females can wear plain t-shirts and pants and still be sexualized, abused even. In fact, on March 31, it was reported that two police officers from Marikina were faced with criminal charges, for raping two female detainees inside a police precinct.

The fact that law enforcers – the very people whom we trust to uphold justice – were the ones who committed it says a lot about how vulnerable one can be just by being a woman, and how some are willing to forsake all sense of morals and duty just to satisfy and pleasure themselves. If that isn’t enough, there were also two different cases wherein two men had allegedly raped two children, both with special needs.

How are we supposed to trust that we will be safe, when even children are not exempt from the vile impulses of these degenerates? For those stupid enough to still not get it: rape happens because of rapists, not because of the victims, nor their status, nor their clothing. There are no excuses for the ones who did it, only the opportunity for us to act and make sure that justice is served. Because if we continue to just live on with our lives once

the deed is done, then what will become of the children who come after us? Rape is rape; nothing can ever change or justify that. As it stands, these degenerates will never stop doing it, not until they’ve indulged themselves so much that they burn themselves. And when the time comes and justice is finally upheld for every victim that they have ever wronged, they will definitely deserve it.

EDITORIAL

What Should be Feared WORDSMITH Jayniah Vinielle Barza

We have already lost several of our front liners and people due to this pandemic and we simply cannot allow ourselves to lose more lives just because of our government’s unacceptable inaction and incompetence.

It cannot be denied that countries around the world have developed their own actions that have appeared to yield results. One of those is China whose ‘draconian measures’ including early yet organized lockdown and mandatory reporting of suspicious cases were able to turn the tide of an infection to zero. Compared to our country, the same act has only confined millions of citizens in chaos. If our government did not continue to shield themselves from the backlash of its pro-China policies and just conformed to the public’s appeal to impose travel ban in the first place, then we would not

Messages

have to experience these mishaps. Additionally, the unavailability of test kits is clear. Quarantine without massive testing is of no sense; and it all boils down to the government’s long due incompetence. The Congress had recently approved the president’s access to emergency funds, yet it still appears that those poor and invisible to the system can possibly die untested and untreated. What is more disappointing is the fact that what the government can only offer is the advice and appeal to employers to give their workers their 13-month pay. While others are doing their

TWP

he intensifying number of confirmed and fatality cases of Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the Philippines proved to be a call for the government to address the pressing need for drastic measures like the implementation of community quarantines. And as the government declared that there is a need for the quarantine to be ‘enhanced’, so does the government itself and its actions to at least keep up with other nations in curbing the spread of the virus.

best, our government is just thoughtlessly spitting orders, rather than using their powers to put its people at ease – both mentally and physically. Most of the people affected are on a “no work-no pay” basis, as such, it is only right and just that authorities give the necessary aid. Seeing as the president’s recent statement, in which he simply told citizens “maghanap ka ng paraan,” speaks up for his evasion to his own responsibility. It is clear that depending on him is a futile effort. The Philippines truly has a long way to catch up in terms of delivering effective, comprehensive, and rights-based

approaches and equipment. The battle against Covid is a race against time and we cannot just continue to deal with this by sitting down and hiding at home like frightened rats. As this pandemic pushes, the only question is how would people survive given that the normal operations were suspended.It is time to develop policies and strategies on how to alleviate the prevailing issue of the public’s lack of livelihood and dwindling resources. If this continues, then the only danger we should really be fearing is not the virus nor China, but rather our own government instead.

As You Should

Details

CHIVALRY Aron Rayner Melo

The eruption of Taal Volcano only revealed how incompetent and uncaring the administration is when it comes to the welfare of their people when the unexpected times come.

TWPmessage Today 5:05 PM

Sarah Matuto With the current situation that we have, our remaining requirements for this year were mostly submitted online which became a struggle for students who do not have a laptop, cellphone, and stable internet connection. Hopefully, the university can provide an alternative way of learning that is convenient for everyone. Seen

Lykha Mae Gonzales Thank you for expressing this concern. The University of Batangas has always been making efforts to make sure that students’ concerns are being addressed. Let us be considerate of the syllabi by our teachers as they are following the mandated instructions to prepare us for the higher level of education. Delivered

Carl Jake Matias I am writing to express my difficulty with the inadequate number of tools and equipment present in the UB Millennium Campus Clinic. Because of this, students had to walk all the way to the Main Campus for further medical assistance. It would be better if the administration will upgrade the facilities to ensure the safety of the students. Seen

Christopher Jardine Capuno It is good to know that you sent a message. Rest assured that the school publication would be a venue for the administration to resolve the issues raised by the students. The university is still planning to improve the said campus to provide more services to the students. Delivered

Elle Mendoza Since the UBHS Learning Resource Center has insufficient number of computers for the Scholastic Reading Inventory, a new online platform, Literacy Pro, was introduced to the students but a one-hour schedule given to each class is not enough. It would be of big help if we can spend more time in the library to read books. Seen

Lykha Mae Gonzales Regarding your concern, the best solution would have to be effectively maximizing the allotted time in the library for your English class since you can access the said platform to read books and answer the tests online. Moreover, improvements in the school’s facilities are always among the top priorities of the administration to make sure that the students are receiving the quality education they deserve. Delivered

he sudden eruption of Taal Volcano left not just tons of damaged properties, but also a great amount of emotional trauma towards the Batangueños and arguably, even if the victims are usually pleading for immediate assistance, they themselves had the eagerness and courage to help other people. It was the so-called ‘bayanihan’ that helped them to get through these dire situations. And the national government, you ask? Barely lifting a finger.

At times like this, the national budget should be ready anytime. Yet, even if it is a given fact that such an allocated budget is crucial for the improvement of communities, the government opted to reduce the calamity fund for 2020 by P4 billion, from P20 billion to only P16 billion. It is unreasonable since many people depend on this. The government is just making it hard for the society to get up from the big losses of agricultural, educational, and other sectors. The government assumed that such a disaster wouldn’t happen, and thus, turned a blind eye to the possibility that such a calamity could be worse than expected. The improvement of the instruments was not prioritized by the government since the country, being a poor one, also needs to focus on many other issues. But, as the saying “prevention is better than cure” goes, it will be much easier for us to invest in such technology to prevent

further dilemmas. Batangas Governor Dodo Mandanas mentioned that certain rescue operations were difficult to execute due to a pitch-black Sunday evening, just right after the eruption. As days went by, there was also a high demand for relief goods and financial assistance. Gradually, help rushed in but other government officials were reported for getting the funds for personal reasons only. The higher ups should always be prepared for the worst. They must allot the budget, not in their pockets but to where it should be given, because after all, the lives and safety of the victims must be prioritized above all else. The Batangueños still managed to help and give whatever they could to the evacuees — no matter how small or big that voluntary act was. With this, our leaders should stop thinking about themselves for once and rather, think about the people whom they govern — as they all should.

A Crucial Compromise SARCAST Bjorn Deade

It may seem to be a great disappointment at first glance, but later on, these decisions would only prove to be for what should be the utmost priority—students’ safety and welfare.

he first three months of 2020 greatly affected the education of Batangueño students, leading to the school administration’s adjustment of the students’ class schedules, and the removal of the annual activities, such as the Moving Up and Graduation ceremonies, Parents’ Night, school field trips, and Intramurals — activities that students have been waiting for all year long. However, it is important to note that students should not berate the school for its decision to do such as it is simply prioritizing what’s ahead and what’s truly important — the safety and future of their students. The decision, however, was not made by the school alone. The Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division Superintendent of Batangas City immediately emphasized the need for make-up classes when the Taal Volcano eruption affected everyone, which prompted them to desist from pursuing the aforementioned activities. Students should understand that this decision is in fact, a blessing in disguise. The adjustment of the schedules is of the greatest convenience for them. Trying to put up with the original plan would be far worse, for it will not only spell more hassle. It will also jeopardize the students’ health and welfare, and that is the last thing anyone would want. Meanwhile, teachers managed to go through every single lesson without aggravating the students. The several missed lessons, quizzes, and activities were a lot to handle but they made sure to hand those out in the most convenient way possible for the students. However, the school should have ensured that every student would be given consideration regarding the use of LMS. Complaints and concerns should be heeded carefully so that the removal of those activities will not be for naught. And seeing that students were not burdened with piles of tasks nor were they forced to comprehend tons of lessons, this decision is a compromise for students and teachers alike who have to learn to accept, and in certain aspects, even appreciate. Indeed, students have all the right to question such a decision. However, needless to say, it should be clear that the price they paid for pursuing with such temporary leisure will be crucial for the direction of their academic futures and health. It is a great thing and sigh of relief that the school picked up on that and acted accordingly despite the consequences. For now, the students may express only dissent for this compromise, but in the future, they will surely know and understand that this will benefit them, and that this sacrifice is the one they did not know they needed.

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EDITORIAL

Cheap Gimmick

t took the onslaught of four consecutive typhoons, a disastrous volcanic eruption, and a pandemic to instill to us a notion long overdue that speaks, we deserve better ---much better than being glorified for our resilience. And for the past few years, we have been picking pieces and rebuilding our homes typhoons after typhoons, not realizing [not until now] that the government has been sleeping on us. For instance, when Typhoon Rolly —the world’s strongest storm this year —hit the country on November 1, thousands were displaced as their homes were destroyed due to nature’s wrath. Yet some people in power merely recognized the resilience of those who survived, instead of acting for both the short-term and the long-term recoveries.

A pressing question lies, are we really resilient people in the first place? Because it seems that for the victims devastated by calamities, to be strong is the only option left for them to survive. It has been reported that due to the typhoon, almost 100,000 homes were left destroyed, most of which couldn’t be repaired, with a death toll of 25, and a P14 billion damage to both

infrastructure and agriculture. The list goes on, but the point is, no one wants to stay in the mud. It’s expected that those affected will rise back up again. And this is not resiliency, it’s merely survival. More so, the so-called “Filipino resiliency” is overrated. We’ve been used to just smile and toughen up during debacles, and to hear praises such as “Filipino’s

resilience is admirable,” but we all know it shouldn’t end there. Those in authority, along with their blatant incompetence shouldn’t be comfortable but rather, held accountable. Enough is too much, glamorize Filipinos for their tenacity all they want, but for all we care now, it’s only a gimmick to fill the void of their inadequacy.

The reopening of POGOs will not solve the economic crisis, which has been made worse by the current pandemic, our country is experiencing. It is shameful enough that the government has turned a blind eye on POGOs considering the billions of debt they have already put the Philippines through.

to be back in our territory and resume the operation of POGOs would likely stir the anger of Filipinos who are told to endure temporary job vacancy and sacrifice their needs in the name of a global health emergency. What concerns them more is that the President is being firm on not shutting down these Chinese-run firms despite its workers being linked in criminal activities including kidnapping, sex trafficking, bribery, tax evasion, and corruption. Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo told in a press briefing that before Duterte halts their

operations, these allegations must first be proven. These officials must have forgotten that these foreign investors owe us billions which could go a long way in augmenting our funds. These Chinese nationals are truly “luckier” for them to be exempted from the misery brought by the policies we have been expected to obey. In these trying times, Chinese and POGOs should not be the topmost priority of our government and it’s not always the Filipinos who have to be the ones to sacrifice and survive with just what is left for them.

Missing in Action

t’s a tragedy for a member of the armed forces to be “missing in action” having not returned from battle—but there’s greater tragedy still, for a country to have a president literally nowhere to be found amidst all the action—the latter, nothing short of shameful. With super typhoon Rolly devastating parts of the country, aid, guidance— answers—were expected from those in power, unfortunately, the public briefing only prompted even more questions—the most prominent, regarding the whereabouts of President Duterte, who failed to attend and address the nation when

his input was most anticipated. As a result, the hashtag “#NasaanAngPangulo” was made and trended to catch his attention, eliciting a mere hypocritical excuse greatly implying his personal matters to be his top priority. President Duterte was in Davao visiting the grave of his parents—remarkably going against his very own words

ECONOMY STATUS

ECONOMIC

LOST DUE TO COVID-19 PANDEMIC

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As the COVID-19 situation eases in the Philippines, the people are on the edge of their seats to get back to normal. Thus, many are already enjoying a breather outside their houses –but to the expense of contracting the virus.

Attitude Over Aptitude

ith the Covid-19 pandemic, a heavy toll has been placed on the lives of slum dwellers and those who rely on their daily wages for survival. Businesses, big or small, have been closing down, some of which are never to reopen again. But with the government’s plan of reopening Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs) in the midst of a health crisis, these people are not anymore willing to endure deprivation and alleged injustice.

Antoine Clarence Miranda

Just recently, the country has been mulling to resume operations of these Chineseoperated online gaming firms to raise funds in order to support programs to help the very poor who are hit the hardest by the lockdown and strict rules on social interaction that made it hard for them to sell or trade anything in exchange for money or even goods. This pushed the urban poor residents to hold protests to voice out their resentment towards the government. Although it is true that they have been giving out social amelioration funds; allowing Chinese workers

Kyle Ezra Delos Reyes

COMMENTAR Y

Injustice To Our Own MAN UP

SERENDIPITY

on August 17: “Ang isang leader would always stay where the crisis is. Hindi ka dapat maglagalag kung may problema ang bayan.” The priority must be his nation and it’s rather tragic that the Philippines is forced to settle for one exhibiting otherwise—until 2022, when the people could have their decisions speak for themselves.

EXPECTED EMERGENCY AID OF

ON POINT River Dale Evangelio

The Philippines has no need for a president who evidently fails to take action and decidedly goes missing amidst all the action going on in his nation.

FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER

$160 billion

3.3 percent

TO BE PROVIDED TO COUNTRIES BY THE WORLD BANK OVER 15 MONTHS

HEADLINE INFLATION RATE IN THE PHILIPPINES

Source: World Bank Organization

Source: Philippine Statistics Authority

FORESEEN GLOBAL ECONOMIC COST OF

BY THE END OF OCTOBER 2020

$4 trillion

P10.03 trillion

DUE TO COVID-19 PANDEMIC Source: Inquirer News

PHILIPPINE DEBT

Source: Inquirer News

Rainier Villanueva

ocial media platforms are designed to create a faster way to connect with other people with just one click of a button, but recently, students of University of Batangas (UB) who only want to voice out their thoughts are being reminded to avoid putting the school’s image at risk by posting statements about the university that are deemed as “inappropriate.” Although the administration is doing their responsibility for the betterment of the learners’ education, students seem to ignore that, leading to their negative remarks, be it online or offline, which the university definitely does not deserve. Late announcements for class suspensions, too many assignments and activities, and sudden changes in the school calendar. Those were some of the issues that the students usually complain about through posting on their Facebook or Twitter accounts. This behavior signaled the beginning of the numerous rants from the learners that alarmed the administration to take courses of actions to prevent the situation from getting worse. Although the issues that the students have been complaining about are all directed to improve the quality of education offered by the institution, there is still a need to address the problem, most importantly, when it comes to the students’ behavior. The Supreme Student Council, as well as the teachers, were tasked to report the students posting negative comments that could tarnish the school’s reputation. This is because it defeats the purpose of the university’s vision to be the center of excellence through quality education which should reflect on the attitude of UBians. Although it is not yet that evident and serious, both the administration and the students should take the current status of the said issue into deep consideration before it gets out of hand. To the former, they should acknowledge the vital role that students portray in nation building which they will not be able to fulfill if they will go on with this kind of behavior. To the latter, everyone in the university must see this as a wakeup call to redirect their ways and serve as role models to other people. After all, one’s attitude will always be better than their aptitude alone.

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How Team Trees sowed the seeds of hope

eople watch them for their trending and topnotch videos, but this time, the world is watching them for their greatest feat yet - saving Mother Earth. To do so, YouTuber, Jimmy Donaldson popularly known by his alias MrBeast, started off by asking for ways to celebrate his 20 millionth subscriber mark. And when a reddit post saying: “Petition for Mr. Beast to plant 20 million trees for 20 million subscribers special, and single-handedly save the earth,” caught his attention, he realized that he could make actual change with his expanding reach. Thus, MrBeast heeded the call— bringing the famous #TeamTrees movement into the world— proving that they can do more than just sit in front of a ring light, and vlog on their gaming chairs.

MUDDY BEGINNINGS On October 25, 2019, MrBeast and former NASA engineer and YouTuber Mark Rober formally organised the collaborative fundraising challenge. And truly— planting 20 million trees before 2020 was a challenge. Some fans even doubted that they could pull it off since it would have taken quite a large amount of time and manpower. And also doubted that this would not be enough— a truth MrBeast and Mark Rober don’t deny. “20 million trees by 2020 isn’t going to cure climate change,” Mark Rober stated in his YouTube video. He added that it will be a difficult act since the planting will cover up to 180 square kilometers of land. “This is all hands on deck.”

A BREATH OF F Thus, YouTub Ninja, and many m MrBeast and M couldn’t handle on their own s Day Foundation, go to. With each placed outdoors and adding mulc With wildfire there have been Australian Bush homes and burn blazing the land year for Moth

BY: BJORN DEL DEADE

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UNBROKEN Chronicles of Filipino Resilience amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic BY: CHRISTOPHER JARDINE CAPUNO

rom the Luzon-wide community quarantine to the continuously dwindling supplies available to both the country’s government and its citizens, the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), has without a doubt left its mark on Philippine society, and even those of other nations. But amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and the problems it has brought, there lies the stories and aspects within our people which have continued to keep Filipinos unbroken – familial love, public service, and wholehearted faith.

WHI

lang po talaga nakakayanan we learn to face these trials in a positive perspective,” the mother expressed. “Ang pinang hahawakan namin ay salita at pangako ng Diyos dahil alam natin na yan ay totoo.” They admit that this challenge is not for the faint of heart so they sought refuge in the only way they know how — faith and prayers.

While it is true that COVID-19 has made a lasting impact on the country, and even the whole world, the efforts and compassion of the medical frontliners and others handling the virus have also made their mark in helping us overcome it. And for the Filipinos at least, until an actual cure or remedy has been created to finally end this global predicament, it is faith, service, and love that will continue to keep us unbroken.

THE WESTERN

As the new year dawned, the world was me mourned, fear was sowed, and hopes were tales lie greater stories - our stories of trium The world may have bent us to our knees, b we breath, we hope. And while w

ARTWORK BY: VINCE NIGEL SON

introduced the “Mobile Palengke” to address and reduce the alarming number of citizens that flocked the Pasig City Mega Market during the Luzon-wide ‘enhanced community quarantine’ in order to buy groceries. “Instead, he saw the need & found a win-win solution to bridge the gap to make everyone’s lives easier.” UNRELENTING FAITH AMIDST CRIPPLING ILLNESS For many, COVID-19 has been a test of their patience, but for 8-year-old twins Felicity and Fianzy Bajado, who both have been diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia of the blood, this crisis is a test of faith. With the lockdown still on going, the two are not able to go to their chemotherapy sessions, and according to their mother, their condition is worsening with each passing second. “By God’s grace

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Meron iba sa amin wala ng kamaganak pero alam nila ang account ng mga kaibigan (nila),” Antipolo City Jail Inmate Freddie expressed with relief and gratitude. UNHINDERED SERVICE AND RESPONSIBLE LGUS As many netizens have openly expressed their disappointment with the current way that most politicians are handling the pandemic, they have also found relief and hope through the actions of those like Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto, as well as other Local Government Unit (LGU) officials. “He saw crowds and didn’t see ‘pasaways’. He didn’t blame them for ‘pagiging matigas ang ulo’,” Twitter user Shiela Miranda, who goes by the username @HeySyao, said in a tweet, regarding how the said mayor

ARTWORK BY: CLARISSE JENN BALOY

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UNBOUNDED LOVE THROUGH E-DALAW When COVID-19 first entered the country, officials advised the public to avoid physical contact to lessen the transmission of the virus, but when this kept the prisoners of Metro Manila from being able to meet their loved ones, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) had to take action to maintain the prisoners’ communication and sense of connection with their families. Last March 12, the Manila City jail suspended the ongoing visits from the families of inmates in the metro due to the prevalent threats of the pandemic. Thus, the “electronic dalaw” (e-dalaw) was introduced to make up for the limitations that social distancing imposed. “Malaking bagay kasi iyong ibang di nakakaalam na nandito ka, through e-dalaw, malaking bagay para sa amin.

BY: BJORN DEL DEADE

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FRESH AIR bers like Pewdiepie, Jefree Star, more joined the cause. Moreover, Mark Rober knew that they such enormous responsibility so they teamed up with Arbor , where all the donations would h dollar donated, a volunteer is s, digging holes, planting trees, ch and water to it. es, like in the Amazon, where n 80,000 forest fires, and the hfire which devastated 1,000 ning more than 12 million acres, dscapes, 2019 has been a hellish her Earth.. Luckily, according

to experts, this project could contribute in alleviating the effects of climate change. They added that 20 million trees would absorb around 1.6 million tons of carbon and remove 116 thousand tons of chemical air pollution from the atmosphere. Team Trees’ efforts would be a slow start, but it is still, nevertheless, a huge step forward.”Team trees is the ideal solution to preserving the Earth,” Bea Alea, an avid fan of MrBeast, expressed. TURNING A NEW LEAF On December 26, 2019, Team Trees achieved and even surpassed their original quota of 20 million trees, raising 20.7 million US dollars worth of donations. Moreover, according to them, people could still donate money, and plant

o t st x

more trees. “Every fan looks up to somebody, and I’m glad Mr. Beast along with several other youtubers, is becoming a great role model for people, both young and old,” Bea Alea said describing the joy she feels with the progress these historymakers are making.

Today, MrBeast, Mark Rober, and other youtubers are striving to use their influence to make powerful change for the environment. They have planted the seeds of hope; now, it’s up for the future generations to make it blossom — and everyone will be watching. “I’ve literally tried my best to do everything I can. And now it’s your guys’ turn,” MrBeast ended off.

n the disaster that was the recent eruption of the Taal Volcano, those living around its vicinity suffered grievously; souls lost, livelihoods destroyed, and fear radiated throughout the province and even the country. But while ash and smoke covered the sky and the hope of a new day, Batangueño hospitality shone through, revealing the unrivaled compassion they have, especially for their fellow barakos in need.

How Batangueño Compassion shone and brought the light and hope of a new day

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et with disastrous outcomes; lives were e seemingly lost. Yet within these grim mph, nostalgia, compassion, and faith. but still, we will stand strong. For while we hope, our legacies live on.

TRUDGING THROUGH ASH AND FEAR As it became evident that the volcano’s growing activity would prove harmful to those near its vicinity, citizens were quickly evacuated - being forced to leave their homes and livelihoods behind in the process. But when volcanic ashfall started heavily blanketing cities far, far away from the visible crater, worries quickly turned into fear. “Noong pumutok ang bulkan, napakarami ang nawalan ng ari-arian at mga pang hanapbuhay,” says evacuee Joshua Villaros. “Pero naglakas loob kami na bumalik sa Agoncillo para lang makapaghanap ng trabaho para meron kaming pangkain.” BARAKOS BANDING TOGETHER Although the possibilities of inhaling harmful volcanic ash

and the Taal Volcano becoming more active were still very much at large, many like student Camilla Valenzuela took no hesitation at lending a helping hand. They provided food, clothes, and other utilities to the evacuees as it became clear that the government was not doing enough. “Kung hindi sila maabot ng tulong ng gobyerno, hindi ata tama na manatili lang ako sa amin, kailangan at dapat akong may gawin,” Camilla expressed. HOPE FOR A NEW DAY With how most evacuation centers in the area were quickly growing overcrowded, Batangueños took the hospitality Filipinos are very well-known for one step further. With nothing but concern and compassion for those in need, they opened up spare rooms and spaces within their own homes and apartments to

ARTWORK BY: VINCE NIGEL SON

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shelter the evacuees. Grade 12 Student Joyce Tremillos, who was one of the people who had to evacuate adds that “nung nalikas kami, there were people sa sidewalk na nag aabot ng tubig and clothes tapos nagtatanong kung may matutuluyan na ba while wearing masks kasi may ash fall. Thank you sa kanila kasi andon yung puso ng pagtulong!”

While the disaster that was Taal’s Eruption has caused fear and troubles for everyone involved, the difficulties it has brought has also highlighted the Batangueños’ willingness to help their fellowmen. Though the aftermath of Taal’s Eruption left the province gray with ash and uncertainty, in the end, their compassion is what shone through and brought the light and hope of a new day.

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LEGACY

Through the years of how ABS-CBN has delivered excellence in the service of the Filipinos BY: BJORN DEL DEADE

or years, ABS-CBN has been one of the prevailing bodies that our country has witnessed and grown to love. From online reports to televised shows, the news network’s purpose of providing the latest updates as well as quality entertainment has not changed in the decades that have passed since it was founded. But with how recent attacks have been made against the news network and subjected it to prosecution due to its supposed “bias” against the national administration, the existence of the network has been put under threat, yet still the network and its supporters continue to stand strong.

And true to its motto, “in the service of the Filipino,” the network has offered up several memories for us to ponder on over the ages. VALUE-COATED NOSTALGIA Known by today’s generation for past television classics such as May Bukas Pa, 100 Days to Heaven, and Agua Bendita, as well as newer ones like Ang Probinsyano and Home Sweetie Home, ABS-CBN has delivered several TV series that have put viewers on the edge of their seats, tugged at their heartstrings, and imparted valuable life-lessons to both old and young. Be it varying political strife, or practicing one’s faith wholeheartedly and dearly, the network has time and time again touched on valuable social and political aspects that continue to be relevant within Philippine society. From the science-fiction world of Kokey, whose story revolves around a human meeting an alien and eventually befriending him despite their stark contrast, to the tale of 100 Days to Heaven, which tells how stepping down from one’s privileged life can make one see the value in being kind, compassionate, and caring for others, the channel has premiered several shows that have contributed to the development of many youth in their time. MIDDAY ENTERTAINMENT AND HANGOUTS Of course, ABS-CBN doesn’t just cater to the youth. With midday entertainment shows, like ASAP and Showtime to name a few, even adults with TV have found solace and enjoyment in watching celebrities perform and joke around live on air. More so, some viewers have commented how the overall feel and idea of shows like Showtime are appealing to many because they seem very ‘casual’ in nature. “Ang talaga namang nakakaaliw sa mga palabas na ganyan ay parang natambay lang kami kasama ng mga artista, kahit kunwari lang,” Aling Lily Mendoza fondly explains. “Nakakagaan ng loob at masaya rin namang panuodin sa tanghali.” TIRELESSLY CRITICAL NEWS REPORTING Being the leading news network in the country at present, it also bears the tremendous responsibility of delivering truth, and only the truth, to the people. Though the news network is currently under prosecution for supposedly being ‘biased’, it has been said that it has continued to fulfill its duty of delivering the news and updates that are important in people’s lives throughout the decades. Criticized for being critical of the current administration’s shortcomings, ABS-CBN CEO Carlo Katigbak has since apologized and clarified their prevailing stand. “We’re sorry if we offended the president, that was not the intention of the network,” he said during the Senate hearing regarding the network’s legitimacy to operate. [ABS-CBN] does not and will not have its own political agenda.”

Regardless of how you look at it, ABS-CBN has helped shape the lives and mindsets of its audience over the years. And with other local news networks, as well as big international publications, standing together to fight for its continued existence, the legacy that ABS-CBN has secured today will continue to live on - all while staying true to its motto of serving the Filipino people.

t r a e H s ’ e n i c n Fra

ARTWORK BY: CLARISSE JENN BALOY

How cancelling her debut celebration became the best birthday gift ever BY: BJORN DEL DEADE

atering services? Check. Event hall? Check. An elegant gown? Check. Cake and invitations? Check and check! Marci Calubad’s checklist for the upcoming debut of Francine Isabelle Echano on February 1 was all set and done. That was until he got a call from the debutant—informing him that the debut was cancelled, and that there would be much larger cause she needs to attend to.

The cause occurred to grade 12 STEM Allied and Medical Health student on January 12 when the Taal Volcano wreaked havoc on the citizens residing in the towns near the shores of Taal Lake. And Francine knew that she won’t just be staying at home doing nothing as her fellow citizens suffer. “Nag-taas na ng alert level ang PHIVOLCS. Tapos, nagsuspend na rin ng klase ang mga schools,” Francine narrates, recalling how difficult it was to see her fellow Batangueños suffer through such a calamity. “Since hindi pa nga rin okay yung situation ng Taal, noong January 14, kinausap ko sila mommy. Tapos doon ako nagdecide na i-cancel na lang lahat kahit okay na halos lahat ng preparation.” At first, it seemed that it was bit of a stretch considering a debut is the one birthday most teen girls have long been waiting for. That’s why Francine’s family members were caught off-guard with the decision, especially her younger sister, Chloe. Nevertheless, they went through with the decision, and used the money allotted for the celebration to provide relief to the affected. And on January 15, Francine, Chloe, and their willing cousins started preparing for the relief operation. Weaving through the aisles of the mall and market stalls, they handpicked the goods, drinks, and clothing they thought would suffice the evacuees’ needs. “Inabot kami ng 12 hours kasi from 8 am to 3pm kami namili tapos pagkauwi namin,

diretso pack na agad ng goods,” Francine said. “Nahirapan lang kami sa pamimili kasi may mga nagkakaubusan na.” Francine and other volunteers then picked evacuation centers of the town of Sta. Teresita as the town they would be handing out the relief goods to. According to Chloe, they chose evacuation centers where not much relief goods were being extended. Then, January 16, — Francine’s birthday and the day of relief operation — came about. Mode of transportation? Check. The 220 bags of relief goods? Check. A motive and a heart of gold? Check and check! Francine along with Chloe and her cousins proceeded with their plan. For five hours, they went to 6 different evacuation centers as ashfall and dust irritated their skin and lungs along the way. Throngs of evacuees lined up, as they handed out the goods to them. Francine was met with endless resounding thank you’s from the people. And when the hundreds of evacuees sang her a wishful birthday greeting, she knew that moment would be seared into her mind. After seeing that the evacuees were happy and were able to meet their necessities at this time of need and calamity, Francine Echano knew full well it was the only gift she needed. “Mas doble pa yung happiness na naramdaman ko nung ginawa ko ‘yon. sobrang sarap sa feeling na makatulong sa kapwa mo kahit na pina-cancel ko yung isang party na gustong-gusto ko talagang mangyare. ”

INFOGRAPHICS

THE LEGACY

WE LEAVE

As the world scrambled to unite and help each other out, these little gleams of positive developments are offering hope — hope that the world may start spinning again.

THE U.S. FDA AUTHORIZED

COVID-19 MRNA VACCINE

PFIZER-BIONTECH COVID-19 VACCINE

Source: FDA.GOV

SCHOOLED SCHOOLED THE IN

What Nanay Remedios gained after she left everything behind for her business BY: BJORN DEL DEADE

Born in poverty, her parents had always believed that education is the only way out of it. However, considering how expensive formal schooling was, a young Meding — her nickname — thought otherwise. So, during her last year in elementary, she threw her cares away and dropped out. “Mahirap pa [sila] sa daga,” she said, explaining why she took such a big risk. To live off scraps wasn’t the inheritance she wanted, so to avoid it, Nanay Remedios became her own teacher. She mastered

ARTWORK BY: CLARISSE JENN BALOY

AS OF DECEMBER 2020

49,000,000

AS OF APRIL 6, 2020

21,469,303

2000

TREES PLANTED BY #TEAMTREES

PEOPLE VOLUNTEERED FOR TAAL VOLCANO’S RELIEF OPERATIONS

Source: Team Trees Organization

Source: GMA News Network

COVID-19 RECOVERIES GLOBALLY Source: Statista

OVER

ARTWORK BY: JUSTIN ALETA

he marketplace banters are her classroom chatter, computing her daily income is her homework, and her lessons? Well, a complete set of sessions about business strategies, patience, and resilience . Now at 75, Nanay Remedios Casao Balmes has everything she needs all thanks to the Batangas City Public Market—the establishment that’s become her school for 50 years. the art of sewing which helped her get by, and eventually paved way for her to meet her would-be husband, a cutter in a tailoring shop. They then had an idea for a business venture which materialized when she turned 25. Her husband had bought a space in the still starting market industry that ultimately gave birth to “Marlen’s RTW Stall.” However, money wasn’t their only capital. For her stall to be up and running, Nanay Remedios also needed to become more sociable — especially during the times her business was heavily in debt. Thus, she did just that in order to survive the lion’s den. “Mayroong ibang tao iba pakikisama sa iyo, nakikitungo ka na lang,” Nanay Remedios said, as she joked about how she avoided feuds over the years. “Masarap sa feeling na wala kang inatrasong tao.” Years had passed, and she finally gained stability in terms of money and mutual friendships. Remedios’s business was in full force. Handing out their

merchandises — everything was going seamlessly. Everything was going their way. Then, a fire broke out. “Dalawang beses na nasilab ang palengkeng ito,” she said. But when the smoke had cleared out, her hopes to get back on their feet became clear as day. She wisely spent and used the money the Department of Social Welfare and Development had lent money to vendors such as herself. After several years of hardship, Marlen’s RTW Stall was back in its former glory— a sight Remedios’ beloved husband never got to see. Currently, the business is still hustling and bustling, and is showing no signs of slowing down especially with her family and relatives helping out. “Oy Brenda! Short na itim daw!” Nanay Remedios yelled, as she tells her employee to serve a customer. And it’s been like that for 50 years in the market where Nanay Remedios learned countless lessons on being clever, friendly, and flexible with whatever life in the market throws at her. And that’s all she needed.

ARTWORK BY: VINCE NIGEL SON

FEATURE

How Batangueño students choose to empty their wallets right after graduation BY: CHRISTOPHER JARDINE CAPUNO

s thrifty as anyone can be, even the most careful hands can be prone to tempting deals and haphazard spending; but when school’s out and everyone goes out and about, emptying one’s wallets becomes as meticulous or chaotic as it can be – especially as a fresh college graduate. Moving forward with all the talk on national funds, government spending, and great deals when it comes to clothes and such, money, and how it should be spent, has become a prevalent point of discussion for many youths. “WALWALAN” AND WHAT-NOT It can’t be denied that most of us are fond of going out with friends and having a blast of a time – even when out parents may not always agree and allow us to. As Engineer Ana Mai Geronimo explains, spending of cash on recreation ends up as a useful way to unwind and relax. “Ako, I allot some of my money especially for recreation. Para na din marelieve ‘yung work-related stress,” she playfully narrates. CASHING IN ON CAREERS Being neophytes in their own given fields, it goes without saying that fresh college grads will still have much to learn about their careers. As such, many of them continue to pursue higher educational attainments and work towards becoming better professionals in the long run. “Para sa’kin, importante na maglaan ng pera para sa future para masigurado na kayanin mon ang mag-isa ka lang di na aasa sa mga magulang o kapatid balang araw,” says Engr. Czarina Pumarada. FUNDS FOR THE FAMILY Staying true to our family-loving identity as Filipinos however, one of the most common responses when asked about where fresh grads focus their incomes is on giving back to the families that raised them with the utmost love and care. Where our parents’ blood, sweat, and tears were put into raising the next generation, the latter has been giving back to the hands that molded them into who they are. “I still insist on sharing my income with them since it is my way of giving back all they gave over the past years of my life,” Jedelyn Belle Mangampo, a high school teacher, says fondly.

Emptying one’s wallets as a full-fledged adult might be filled with uncertainties and an itching feeling to immediately buy that one item you saw online, but when it comes to handling moneyspending impulses for fresh college graduates in Batangas, it all comes down to a few things – keeping your priorities in check, and maybe even a bit of time to unwind.

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ARTWORK BY: VINCE NIGEL SON

BEGINNING

The Year the World Stopped Spinning BY: CHRISTOPHER JARDINE CAPUNO

What happens inside the world of Commissioning

ARTWORK BY: JUSTIN ALETA

BY: BJORN DEL DEADE

t was as if the new year was already ending before it even began.

The skies of Australia turned black, smoke mixed with gleams of vibrant colors. The streets of Hong Kong were cramped up, the discontent heard in full volumes. And everyone stayed in-doors, as fear emerging Covid 19 virus and fear hanged in the air. 2020 caught everybody off guard. And now — everybody is scrambling. A HOT CRISIS Wildfires raged across Australia during the previous year, destroying lives, buildings and oppor-tunities until early 2020. Over 27 million acres of landmass — composed of infrastructures and lush forests — had been burned to the ground, putting hundreds of animal species in high risk, according to the latest BBC statistics. However, hand-in-hand, the government, concerned citizens, and neighboring countries were able to slow down the spread of wildfires in the continent last early February. “After what’s been a truly devastating fire season for both fire fighters and residents who’ve suffered through so much this season. We can really focus on helping people rebuild,” New South Wales Rural Fire Service deputy commissioner Rob Rogers said on Twitter. LEASH ON FREEDOM At the start of March 2019, the Hong Kong citizens filled the streets, as the effects of the Extradition Bill disrupted the peace of their democracy. Although the bill had already been withdrawn last September 2019, the damages were irreversible, saying it was too little, too late. And when 2020 rolled

around, their volumes and anger became more amplified, as they hoped to be finally heard. They demanded for amnesty for arrested protesters, independent inquiry into alleged cases of police brutality, disassociation of protests with riots, and the implementation of complete univer-sal suffrage, hoping their voices be heard not muffled, and only dogs be put on a leash not their freedom. BATTLING THE UNSEEN ENEMY The Coronavirus (COVID-19) had worsened after the previous year when it started spreading worldwide, promoting World Health Organization (WHO) to declare it as a pandemic crisis, changing everyone’s life in the long run. Currently, the world is racing to find the vaccine and treatment, but to no avail yet. For now, the public is expected to comply with the health guide-lines to help slow down and end this health crisis.

The year 2020 may not be as perfect as they thought it would be, as circumstances made that impossible to happen. As solidarity and hope united the people from all across the globe, hopes of making past this year is becoming clearer by the minute, and dreams of starting the next year right is keeping everyone encouraged. Where the lights will be glinting with fireworks, the streets will be filled with children blowing their trumpets, and families will be staying indoors for dinner. Where the new year will once again mean a new beginning.

ON LOVING, GIVING, AND WAITING What Adorable Home means to its users BY: BJORN DEL DEADE

ARTWORK BY: CLARISSE JENN BALOY

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WESTERNIAN PIONEER

ommission artists and writers thought that all they had to do was to meet the deadlines.

They weren’t told about the perils that await them. Nevertheless, they still had to endure all of it to survive this COVID 19 pandemic. Now, students are entering the world of commissioning, and the dangers they face, together with the prevailing culture of disrespect, underappreciation, and undervaluing of Filipino artists in the country, are proving that this job is as real as it can get. “A lot still has the ‘eh drawing lang naman yan’ mentality without considering what artists go through to produce good art,” Ms. Jan Villanueva, a Fine Arts graduate from University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Arts and Design, said in an online interview. “We spend not just money, but also our time, to improve ourselves and our craft; we have to learn continously, just like any profession that exists.” THE DARK SHADES Taro, not his real name, started doing commissioned artwork last April 2020. He is an animator and does full body artworks for $45 and fully rendered artworks for $65. With that rate, he was able to earn as a grade-12 student and show his kindness as he donated P1,000 pesos to the victims of

Typhoon Ulysses after its onslaught. However, more often than not, Taro doesn’t get to receive that kind of kindness from his clients. Just last October, a foreign client of his did not only discredit him but also paid him below their agreed-upon rate. “Basically, what happened is ‘yong client ko ay middle man lang at ako ang gumawa ng art para sa client niya,” Taro recalled. He then tried to confront his client about the matter and get paid right but to no avail. “Oo, nag-propose siya sa’kin na ilalagay [niya] ako sa team midway ng production ng animation, pero sa kanya pa rin nakacredit yung cover art ko, [at] ‘di pa ako [naging] part ng team niya.” In the end, he only received $205 in total, while his client got over $600. For Taro, this encounter stemmed from underlying issues of racism. He believes that, with him being a beginner artist together with the high exchange rate of dollars to pesos ($1.00 = P48.04 as of December 2), the client assumed that the fee he paid was big and reasonable enough for the quality of his work. But Taro knows that this isn’t what his art is worth; this isn’t what art is worth.

WRITING IN THE SHADOWS Unlike artists, ghostwriters cannot risk exposing their identities for their work, as Noa (not her real name) would put it, is considered “bad” and “taboo”. That’s why the first time Noa got scammed by her 17th client, she was forced to hide in the shadows and fight through her panic attacks as her client got away with her commissioned essay she poured 3 hours of her time in. “It could get very dark,” Noa said. “Parang ang sama [para sa ibang tao] na may nilalapitan ang ibang students to do their short stories and 1000+ words na essay, so we really can’t complain ‘pag may ganitong nangyayari.” However, for teachers, like Ma’am Christel Conteras, who teaches Trends subject to senior high school students, there’s nothing wrong with doing writing and art commissions. “I see nothing wrong with using your talent and skills para kumita,” she said. “When it comes to intellectual property kasi, ‘pag commissioned work, ‘yong nagpagawa at nagbayad, sa kanya na yung intellectual property.” STATE OF THE ARTISTS Knowing that this is

a battle for survival and respect, commission artists and writers are ignoring the competitions and races. According to Lexie Cordova, a g12 student who does writing commissions herself, there is an informal group where commission writers get together, recommend good clients, and warn fellow writers about possible scammers. “It’s in these trivial accounts of charity that I see the bloom in this field,” she said, “That’s why it’s never a competition, and that’s why we ’rise together’ instead of ‘keeping up’” Commission artists know that there is another dangerous and unfair world beyond the deadlines. And unless clients learn how to make art and write the same way these people do, commission artists and writers will continue to demand what they’re worth and will continue to fight this battle against the culture of disrespect toward Filipino artists and writers — for the income and for the art. “Ito ang sagot doon sa ‘Baka magutom ka pag nag-art ka’: Kung sa tingin ninyo ‘di kami makakakita ng pera, sa tulong ng modernong panahon, abot kamay na namin ang pangarap namin,” Taro ended.

dorable Home may seem nothing but a simulation game where you can play make-believe virtually but for its users, they have found a sense of home and love in the app— and it couldn’t be anymore real. Developed by Mexican gaming company HyperBeard, Adorable home allows users to choose a partner, have quite a few pets, and decorate and transform a house into a home. It was last released January 9 and now, it has already been downloaded more than five million times – and with good reason. A STAND FOR LOVE One of the key reasons why Adorable Home gained popularity, and according to its users, is that they are allowed to personally select their character and their partner. Users are then able to have both heterosexual and homosexual relationships. “[It’s] a step in the right direction for the LGBT community,” Ben Kemp of OntechEdge.com said, emphasizing how commendable the inclusivity of Adorable home is. Although it’s just a simulation game, the representation of the community is as real as it could get. “It means so much to us

since we lack representation. It feels very overwhelming in a good way,” Katherine Lontoc of G12-Villa explained. “It’s nice to have that kind of game since we always have the heterosexual ideals being forced onto us in simulations like this.” A PET-LOVER’S HAVEN Furthermore, one of the most riveted parts of the game is that users can have pet cats which they would relentlessly pet virtual cats, hoping that it would pop up a heart, and show their unsolicited approval. This made the game a haven for pet-lovers, and enthusiasts alike. “The game exhibits actual caring for animals, and the love you can get the more time you spend and care for them,” Denise Famadico of G12-Villa expressed. “Pet owners and non-pet owners alike are more encouraged to be more compassionate to animals.” A WAITING SHED Truly, in this game, you can virtually

live the life you wanted while getting unconditional love from your ideal virtual partner. And hopeless romantics can’t get enough of it, saying it has become a waiting shed for them, sitting tightly and patiently until the so-called “right time” comes. The sweetness of their virtual partners, the nosiness of their pets, and the satisfaction they get from designing their home and dream lives are enough to make users’ hearts flutter with joy. “This game serves as a remedy for those who are actually pining for romantic attention,” Katherine pointed out.

While indeed Adorable Home is just a virtual simulation game, for the members of the LGBTQ+ Community, pet lovers, and hopeless romantics, the love and home they feel couldn’t be more real. Not until the real one arrives; they’ll be playing Adorable Home for the meantime.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY EDITOR: ROBERT PATRICK TALABIS

CRUNCHING THE NUMBERS: COVID EDITION ON AVERAGE IT TAKES

5-6DAYS FOR SYMPTOMS TO SHOW UP HOWEVER IT CAN TAKE UP TO

14 DAYS

82% HAVE MILD PRESENTATIONS

15% SEVERE MANIFESTATIONS 03% CRITICAL CONDITION AROUND

02%

Alert level rises as coral bleaching strikes parts of Batangas

editorial

BY: CASSANDRA ALEXIE LOPEZ

BARE MINIMUM I

n the communicated updates about the Philippines’ response on COVID-19, it seems like everything that the authorities have implemented and advised is nothing more than the bare minimum of what any country should be doing in the midst of the pandemic. With nearby countries already reverting to their state before the pandemic happened, the Philippine Government has been blind on what progress should really look like by now. Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya enumerated the current plans of authorities all over the country to tackle the issues surrounding COVID-19. These mainly include the encouragement of handwashing, physical distancing, and wearing face masks and shields. Though essential, these initiatives alone will never be the effective solution any country should strive for in a pandemic. From the word itself, minimum, the health requirements set in the country is the least that everyone can do. Even though these protocols are important, it only focuses on how people can go about with their normal lives as if there is no pandemic going on. The plan lacks solutions that would tackle the virus head on such as the implementation of mass testing for those who are most susceptible to the virus. Although there are definitely ongoing tests,

it does not focus on months is the reason enlarging its scale why cases have not to a mandatory level been going down as so that there could planned. However, it be an evaluation of can not be helped if To remain the plan. people need to risk Although it was said their lives outside to stagnant and that the number of continue their means stable in a lethal cases are decreasing, of living. Although situation is to be it is still prone to the shortcomings on complacent with elevating due to the the part of the people mediocrity and lack of a plan outside have contributed to incompetence enforcing minimum the increase, other health requirements. factors such as Because of the ineffective initiatives unsustainable initiatives that only and constant change of unclear hopes on the discipline of the people, guidelines do not help. It was never the plan can easily be derailed from a case about careless citizens. In what it is hoping to accomplish. It fact, 97% of Filipinos are concerned would just be an ongoing cycle of about the virus, according to Pulse increase and decrease because the Asia’s survey. But with a plan that plan is to wait out the virus and hope solely relies on discipline, it is for a vaccine. bound to fail. In order to effectively Some may argue that the tackle the health-crisis head on, lack of discipline Filipinos have the country must do more than the demonstrated throughout the bare minimum.

ecently, some parts of the waters off the provinces of Batangas were placed under Alert Level 1 (Red) by the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) after receiving multiple cases of coral bleaching within the said area. In line with this, the whole shoreline of Calatagan Peninsula showed a massive coral die-off measuring up to 72-kilometers, ranging from Batangay Gulod to Barangay Tanagan. According to the Philippine Coral Bleaching Watch, an online reporting platform, the bleaching was caused by the sudden increase in the temperature of the sea surface. “While we’re too busy [battling the] pandemic on land, the same [problem] is going on underwater wherein documented reefs as wide as 3 to 7km turn white,” Jessie delos Reyes, a local Bantay Dagat and team leader of the nongovernment Reef Check Philippines, stated. Way back 2007, Calatagan was also a victim of this phenomenon followed by reports of coral bleaching in 2012 and 2014 as stated by Delos Reyes. On the other hand, many people expressed their thoughts through the said platform especially the residents of the affected areas. “It is so sad to receive this kind of news. Sana po maka-recover sila. Pag maganda na ang panahon, tingnan ko ang mga corals samin,” Lhara Jane Endozo, a resident of Brgy. Hukay, Calatagan and a student of BS Fisheries and Aquatic Services, commented. Additionally, it was explained in the online platform that a coral bleaching happens as the corals are starting to lose the “colorul-energygiving plants” as an effect of the changes in conditions including temperature, light or nutrients, which makes the coral lose its color. “It’s massive because the whole area is bleaching and it’s continuing [as opposed to] concentrated [bleaching] when only small parts [of the reef is affected],” Delos Reyes added. With all these being said, he stressed that one way to increase the possibility of ending this phenomenon is by stopping coal-fired plants and open-dump burning in the communities.

HAVE DIED FROM THE DISEASE

Batangas City earns high rank in Climate Change Management in SEA PEOPLE OVER

YEARS OLD

ARE MORE PRONE TO THE DISEASE

AROUND

IN EVERY

INFECTED WITH COVID-19

HAVE DIFFICULTY IN BREATHING AND REQUIRE HOSPITAL CARE

STAY SAFE, WEAR MASK

Source: World Health Organization

“with WORDS, we GOVERN men

BY: RANIER ANDREI VILLANUEVA

hrough the initiatives of organizations under the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO), Batangas City was able to garner a high rank in playing their part to accelerate climate action in the entire Southeast Asia. Within the Southeast Asia Region and Oceania, the city is now among the top 15 cities that continue to play their part in increasing transparency and accelerating climate action. Internationally, among 800 participating cities, Batangas City ranks became part of the top 70 that received an overall score of “B” in management. Behind the efforts of the city’s climate change management strategies is CENRO, along with local environmental organizations including the university’s Youth for Environment in

Schools Organization. “It’s rewarding to see that the collective initiatives of the city are being recognized outside the country. Perhaps this could serve as an inspiration to launch more programs that could contribute to the cause.” Ailsa Fider, President of the UBJHS YES-O, said. Currently, the city is taking action to adapt and reduce negative effects in collaboration with key stakeholders with plans in place to mitigate and adapt to the risks and impacts of climate change.

Behind E TH

MASK

Uncovering the Science of COVID-19 BY: BRET MICHAEL DIMATATAC & MISHAL ENRIQUEZ

n a battle like this COVID-19 pandemic, with a vaccine yet to be created, people must resort to the strongest weapons arsenal available for the meantime — information and awareness. So to aid with that, here’s a rundown on everything you need to know about this unseen enemy, so that you won’t be able to contract it, and you won’t just be hiding in fear and paranoia behind the mask. Commonly known as the Covid-19, this contagious virus, whose symptoms are deceivingly similar with the common flu, is able to spread in an alarming rate. Just within days, the cases have doubled, and the virus has affected so many people, considering the numerous ways it can spread in just a glimpse,

like human interaction. From handshakes to warm hugs, what was once considered friendly greetings or gestures could now spell sickness and death to those who receive it. While on another perspective, the virus is said to also spread among surfaces, although it’s still uncertain on how long it can survive on them. Moreover, the Corona virus, being much more contagious than an ordinary flu, targets specific body organs such as the intestines and the lungs, in most cases the immunity system can regenerate to counter its effects. But even at first the effects brought by the virus has not caused too much harm on the human body yet, the immune system might even be the damage dealer if the infected immune cells can’t handle themselves well which causes confusion among cells. In unwanted occurrences, the effect might be so bad that can cause great damage that leads to life-long disabilities. Most victims who end up infected suffer mild symptoms like fever and dry cough, but some cases become severe or even critical that links to pneumonia, and respirations becomes hard or even fails. Actions that have to be done is under the hands of humanity literally and figuratively. The very best thing that can be done is to wash hands, follow every safety measures given, and to be openly aware of the current situations, so that in the future, we will not need to hide behind a mask anymore.

the

WESTERNIAN PIONEER

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

UB strengthens Synchronous Learning with boosters, add-ons, and netiquettes BY: : ROBERT PATRICK TALABIS

n a webinar called “Strengthening Synchronous Learning: Boosters, Add-ons, and Netiquettes,” held last October 14 to 15, faculty members were provided with information on how to improve the current system of online synchronous classes within the university.

To execute the findings of the study conducted by the Synchronous Learning Concerns (SLC) Committee, one of the committees formed by the Vice President for Academic Affairs and spearheaded by Dr. Maryling Capuno and Mr. Alvin Mercado, the webinar was held with the hopes of addressing the conduct of Flexible Learning Delivery (FLD) in the university. “Millennials have been raised in a technological environment in which they are accustomed to rapid screen changes. As a result, they have limited attention spans which made the practice of communicating synchronously in an online environment very challenging for us, teachers. Due to this, conducting a synchronous

session requires a set of skills on our part.” said Ms. Daniella M. Decena, Instructor from College of Education, Arts, and Sciences (UBLC). Through a reorientation on the full capabilities and features of Google Meet, the official online conferencing application used by the school in conducting virtual synchronous classes, and an introduction on useful extensions that could be used, the productivity and delivery of synchronous classes can be enhanced. Moreover, faculty members were also introduced with selected applications modeled to increase interactivity of synchronous classes between the student and the teacher. The

PHOTO BY Jamaeiah Macaraig

COPING UP. Sarah Cabungcal, a Grade 11 student in University of Batangas is answering her modules and activities in Ubian LMS in their house as it is now part of the new normal of the students.

netiquettes and Guidelines in the Conduct of Online Synchronous Classes were also reiterated to maintain a productive virtual learning environment. “Sa buong time po namin na nagaaral between synchronous at asynchronous learning, may mga nakikita naman din po kaming

mga pagbabago. Katulad nalang po ng Panopto. Medyo bago pa po, pero pwede pong makapagview ng recorded lectures ang students kung hindi sila nakaattend ng klase.” shared Jose Rafhael Rosales, a student from the STEM Engineering strand of the Senior High School Department.

Blame Game TREE HUGGER Robert Patrick Talabis

It’s just plain childish to blindly point fingers instead of admitting your own incompetence.

Contrary to popular belief, the possibility of the Taal Volcano Eruption was not new knowledge at the time of the calamity, as it started showing obvious signs in January 2020. As a matter of fact, PHIVOLCS already predicted back in March 2019 that the eruption would occur soon – they just weren’t sure when exactly. The residents near the vicinity of the volcano were also aware of the upcoming eruption before it actually happened considering that the agency has been releasing bulletins to the public and to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) nine months before the eruption. Furthermore, it is evident that PHIVOLCS

n the heat of crisis ignited by the 2020 Taal Volcano Eruption, the Philippine Government could not help but point their fingers towards the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) to save themselves from the embarrassment of their insufficient support for the victims of the phenomenon. It is unbearable to think about the ignorance that caused the government to make such misinformed accusations.

did everything in their power to keep track with what’s happening with the volcano despite the lack of resources necessary for the effective execution of their duties – not to mention the consistent drop of funds that the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) experiences annually. Regardless of the institute’s insufficient equipment, they were still able to do their responsibilities which shows that PHIVOLCS was nothing but competent during the whole conundrum. Because of the crowded and ill-equipped evacuation centers occupied by the victims at that time, it could be said by several people that the residents and their government units

were uninformed with the possibility of an eruption. However, it shouldn’t be ignored that the whole situation escalated quickly despite the constant monitoring done by the institution. It should also be noted that even though the whole situation took a sudden turn, updates were still disseminated consistently months beforehand. It needs to be understood that blindly passing the blame is not going to solve anything and it never will. But the fact that the Philippine Government would do such a thing shows that they would go so low just to save themselves from the shame that they deserve – like the true child-minded officials they are.

Batangas City hailed as Most Lovable City through Climate Change Initiatives BY: ANTOINE CLARENCE MIRANDA

atangas City emerged as the overall winner in this year’s “We Love Cities” Campaign of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) while bagging the title as the “World’s Most Lovable City.”

In a Zoom call held last October 28, WWF officially announced the award amongst the representatives from WWF national offices and We Love Cities campaign finalists, said Oliver Gonzales, Environment and Natural Resources Officer of Batangas City.

the

WESTERNIAN PIONEER

“We’re overwhelmed and happy. This challenge brought us together and made us proud as citizens of our city. We want to thank WWFPhilippines for their great support and guidance throughout this challenge,” Gonzales expressed. Through the city’s

comprehensive climate mitigation and adaptation plan, which includes interventions based on cty specific climate vulnerabilities, urban sustainability experts from across the globe composed of the jury in the One Planet City Challenge (OPCC), a biennial

global challenge organized by the WWF. In addition to recognizing the significance of public engagement in reaching sustainability goals, Batangas City is starting to gear itself to be the first carbon-neutral city in the country by 2030.

How Taal’s Ash turned to Cash BY: ROBERT PATRICK TALABIS

fter the phreatic eruption that took place in Taal last January 12, massive amounts of volcanic ash accumulated near its vicinity. With the piling of the fine ash from the eruption, several practical uses came with it for a more sustainable future. FROM THE GROUND-UP Volcanic ash is known for its microscopic glass-like structure observed in its particles. This characteristic could be beneficial as an aggregate for several construction materials such as bricks, pavements, and concrete. A study from Massachusetts Institute of Technology engineers under the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering even found that pulverized volcanic ash is a more sustainable additive for concrete solutions. Knowing the properties that volcanic ash possesses, citizens from Biñan, Laguna utilized the Taal Volcano Ash to make Ash Bricks. This was in line with their 2016 initiative for making eco-bricks as a part of their local waste intervention program. The residents affected swept the ash to collect from their improvised brick-making machine. These bricks are then used for the construction of houses to be occupied by those who lost their home from the disaster. GROWTH IN ADVERSITY The powder spewed by the volcano is also rich in potassium, iron, magnesium, sodium, and calcium – nutrients necessary for revitalizing plant growth. Due to the nutrients and minerals found in the volcanic ash, the land within the vicinity of the volcano would receive regeneration for soil fertility. According to Adolfo Necesito, a former agronomy professor at the University of the Philippines in Los Baños, Laguna, volcanic soil is among the most fertile in the world due to the distinct composition of volcanic ash. Because of this, the citizens of Batangas upcycled the sandy ash to make bags of fertilizer that would jumpstart the agriculture affected by the eruption. POTS OF GOLD As a creative output in the midst of the disaster, the volcanic ash could be used as a ceramic glaze for pottery. The integral property of the excreted substance serves as a great protective glaze considering its characteristic being similar to fine granite. Because of the non-crystalline property in volcanic ash, the component can easily be integrated in the process of glazing ceramics because of its fine nature. With this, the reinforcement in several products can easily be done considering the abundance of ash.

Knee-deep in ash and problems, the affected citizens found that the option to rise up is the choice to take. Though the ashes at the bottom of their soles are the very threat to their livelihoods, these citizens have the opportunity to turn the tables and turn the ash into cold hard cash.

MISCELLANY DETAILS

ARTWORK BY: ARON RAYNER MELO

FOR THE FUTURE 2:14

t has been a long ride for the seniors. This academic year has not been the easiest, but it has surely been one of the most memorable moments chapters we will look back on. With this, a new road awaits us as we carve our own paths in attaining our dreams. For now, it is time for the graduates of batch 2019-2020 leave the legacies they have made in the capable hands of the undergraduates so that they may create even greater ones of their own. To our Alma Mater, University of Batangas Senior High School Department, we would like to express our sincerest gratitude for helping us reach our fullest potentials. To the Senior High School Principal, Dr. Miraflor C. Gutierrez, for the keen administration of the senior high school department; Ms. Maria Concepcion Aglibut, discipline officer, for honing every student to become disciplined and responsible inside and outside of the school premises; Department Heads for doing the best they can to cater the students’ needs; and the members of the faculty, for the valuable lessons and for treating the students as their own children. We are deeply grateful. The Editor-in-Chiefs, Aeron Kiel A. Lacsamana and Kyla Mharee V. Guinhawa, will bestow their pens to the future editors Lykha Gonzales, CJ Capuno, Aron Melo, Bjorn Deade, Kit Brian Dimatatac, Antoine Miranda, Jamaeiah Macaraig, Van Torres, Kyle De Los Reyes, River Dale Evangelio, AJ Tolentino and the commendable board of The Westernian Pioneer and Tunog Pamantasan. The adept debaters, Kaye Axel Dela Cruz, Antoine Charles Dichoso, Renz Contreras, Kyla Mharee Guinhawa shall bestow their expertise to subsequent rational speakers including Lexie Cordova, Celeste Cananua and other possible speakers. The incomparable beauty and brains of Kianna Marquez, Cassandra Caguicla, Renz Contreras, Keann Ilagan shall entrust the runway to Derrickson Innocensio, Matthew Mirambil, and Bea Vianka Mag-akat. The talented vocals of the UB community, Carlos Emmanuel Galang,

Kaye Axel Dela Cruz, Nhervia Cueto, Wareen Aira Geronimo, Marvin Bagting will confer their skills to Alexandrei Garcia and Joelouise Palines. The theatrical artists, Dranreb Lozada, Antoine Dichoso, Andrei Urata, Wareen Aira Geronimo, Kaye Axel Dela Cruz shall pass their techniques to Van Aeros De Torres and Angeline Parcon. The conquerers of the dance floor, Leigh Begornia, Mik Kevin Manalo, Haini De Jesus, Keann Ilagan shall pass their firey moves to Gielyne Guinihin, Yvonne Faytaren, Van Mellard Montalbo, Krizian Bagon and Krizel Matira. The exceptional challenger for the hardest questions, Ron Luzon, will impart his wit and curiosity to Robert Patrick Talabis, Davey Von Dimatatac , Adrian Tan and other potential quizzers. The dedicated servants of the student body, Marvin Bagting, Camila Valenzuela, Allison Camba, Monique Buela, Patricia Llarena, Jeyrhonn Cena, John Leonard Royo will pass their responsibility to Yvonne Faytaren, Robert Patrick Talabis, Kit Brian Dimatatac, and Celeste Cananua. We, the graduates of batch 20192020, with great honor, entrust these worthy successors the privelege and responsibility of being the pride of the university as they continue the legacy set forth by those before us. In witness, thereof, we, the affiliate of the senior class of the University of Batangas Senior High School Department, have here set unto our hands the class will and testament to this April in the year of our Lord, two thousand and twenty.

3:16

“H

Class Prophecy

ard at work at another groundbreaking design I see,” I heard as I drew and messed around with a pencil, eyes glued to a piece of paper riddled with rough sketches. It was Engineer Ron Luzon, a long-time friend who I finished my Aeronautical Engineering degree with. “Ready to go?,” he continued, reminding me of a special little meeting I would be attending later on in the day. recently published yet another New York Times Best Seller, as well as other esteemed authors like Psychologist Kaye Dela Cruz, and Attorney Antoine Dichoso. The room was filled by the sound from a slightly out of date television set playing a news coverage of a recent hearing. I watched and saw that the one speaking was Atty. Russell Atienza, as he expressed his joy of spearheading the drafting and later approval of a bill that sought to give better rights to indigenous people and to uplift and present opportunities to those in stuck in crippling poverty. Grabbing and paying for Denise’s book, “I’ll Come to You on a Sunny Day” - which she later dubbed as her ‘masterpiece’ - as well as a bunch of others, I had them wrapped to give to some friends who I promised to treat and who I knew would appreciate it. After meeting with Engr. Ron once more, he dropped me off near a humble little coffee shop in town. “Later!,” he exclaimed as he sped off to take his daughter to her checkup at the Laws of Hope Hospital, a world-class medical institution that was born from the tireless efforts of Surgeon Aeron Lacsamana, Psychologist John Leonard Royo, Pediatrician Roshan Hernandez, and Oncologist Lila Caniete, and made accessible to the poor thanks to the country’s most prominent economic advisers, Noraine Punzalan, Jeyrhonn Cena, and Althea Asi.

As I walked towards my actual destination, the sky resounded with the roar of an airplane flying by. Looking up towards it, I couldn’t help but smile with pride as I saw that it was a Sky X - Series 5 - an airplane model that was designed and finished by my peers and I just a few months ago. Used by Silanganan Airlines - an airline and travel company built on the expertise of Tourism Experts Wareen Geronimo and Nary Guico, the model has been progressively more utilized even by international organizations. The door chimes sang as I entered the shop. “Well, this is a sad-looking place,” I joked, walking towards a lone woman seated at the back, Engr. Kyla Guinhawa, a dear friend I haven’t seen in a long, long time. She saw me and smiled from ear to ear, commenting “you’re early for once.” The mostly empty and ambient atmosphere of the café lit up as we talked, joked, and reminisced on the good old days throughout the afternoon. People always talk about how friends come and go in our lives - how we’d lose some along the way and how they’d take pieces of us along with them. Yet it always surprises me how little has changed since our little laughing sessions together with rest of The Westernian Pioneer and Tunog Pamantasan Editorial Board at the CAPBE Office, since making or breaking the relationships we’ve had with other people, since graduating from highschool and college, and since

moving on with lives of our own. The storytelling and laughter grew and grew as we were joined by more and more old friends in that humble little coffee shop. And i guess what people said was right friends did come and go. They’d share fond memories of us as teenagers when they entered and sat down; and then they’d take little pieces of everyone else as they waved goodbye. But so did I. And those little pieces are what made it all worth it - I wouldn’t have lived, laughed, and loved the way I did, nor would I have become the man I was without them. Minutes became hours, the afternoon grew into the night, and seemingly almost as quickly it had come, the laughter had died out. The last of us to exit and leave knew what was coming - it had been a long time since we’d laughed, cried, and enjoyed ourselves that hard, and it’d be quite some time before we got to experience that again. And well, we realized that the futures we all envisioned for ourselves never exactly went as well as we planned. Just like back in high school, we wept, we endured sleepless nights, and we’ve had quite a few setbacks of our own. But standing there, giggly and hazy from the long hours of talking, we all knew. Everything we all hoped for then, wherever we were now, and whatever we would be in the future - if the lives we were the have the would be as good as now, then in the end, it WESTERNIAN was all worth it. PIONEER

2019-2020

As I stood up, he excitedly showed me a poster for what looked to be an animated movie; my eyes scanned its slightly grim aesthetics before finally finding a familiar name - Engr. Renzl David. Working at Edward Reña’s Chemical Engineering firm as one of the Engr. Reña’s most skilled employees, he alongside Engr. Emilee Ramirez and Engr. Patricia Hernandez have become some of the most renowned post-modern artists in the country at present. Shortly thereafter, we got into Ron’s MDV Road Falcon, a state-of-the-art automotive designed by engineers Veronica Coliat, Marvin Bagting, and David Maaño - who just recently finished establishing his very own photography studio. Hitting the streets, I looked on in wonder as the clouds wrapped and flowed around the Infinity Series Skyscrapers, considered some of the most well-designed in the world, that were built thanks to the country’s most esteemed architects and Civil Engineers, Mea Czarina and Joyce Tremillos. We stopped by one of the many malls near the area, a marvel of a shopping center built under the supervision and guidance of Engr. Camilla Valenzuela, to pick up a few things at a bookstore along the way. I scanned one of the grandiose bookshelves it had until I saw some all-too familiar names once more. Among them, the accomplished and critically-acclaimed writer and literature professor Denise Famadico, who had just

SPORTS

HYPER CARRY

UB claims PRISAA title behind Rodriguez’s scoring clinic

BY: VAN AEROS TORRES

niversity of Batangas (UB) Boys’ Volleyball Team banked on Jude Rodriguez’s 21-point show to drub Christian Colleges of Tanauan (CCT), 3-0, during the Private Schools Athletic Association’s (PRISAA) Boys’ Volleyball Finals Match and secure PRISAA gold.

PHOTO BY Jameiah Ericka Macaraig

TOWERING BLOCK. Redd De Guzman (left), and Mykca Merilloza (right) bolster defense to save a mark after a spike from Christian Colleges of Tanauan during the Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) Women’s Volleyball Championship match last March 6.

With Rodriguez leading the way, UB denied CCT’s minimal efforts on finding a way to snap away from the trailing as they dominated with a 25-19, 25-15, 25-13 triumph, held at LPU Batangas, January 15. “Noong nafeel ko na nasa momentum ako, nag step up talaga ako para mautilize ito,” Rodriguez said. Unwilling to give the momentum to CCT after owning the first set, Rodriguez powered UB to put up an offensive second-canto opener against CCT. CCT tried to cope up with UB’s starting-blast as Captain Vincent Malijan fired back-to-back cross court spikes, 10-7, but weren’t enough to stop the bleeding as UB

E-sports to become a degree in Ph curriculum BY: RIVER DALE EVANGELIO

ith the gaming agency’s goal to create more opportunities for gamers in Asia, Tier One Entertainment announced that they are developing a four-year e-sports curriculum to be added to the list of courses offered in the Philippines. In partnership with the Lyceum of the Philippines University, the agency emphasized that once approved by the Commission on Higher Education, E-sports will set to be available this year. The plan includes game design development and E-sports management that focuses on planning, statistics, and branding based on the courses abroad.

Amidst the various support, the public expressed their doubts as they deemed it unnecessary to be established. “Bakit pa kailangan nyan if pwedeng business-related courses na lang kunin?” Dennver Conti, a Grade 11 student said. It was Team Sibol’s victory during the 30th SEA Games that pushed the agency to integrate E-sports to education.

Magadia asserts mastery over De Chavez to gain PRISAA Table Tennis Opener BY:LYKHA MAE GONZALES

ix-year veteran Stephanie Anne Magadia of University of Batangas marked Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) 2020 as her undisputed territory after overwhelming Lipa City Colleges’ Lovelyn De Chavez in a thrilling three-game opener at Phil-Am Life Building last March 5. Magadia who is business as usual making quick works against her foes, recorded 14 smashes and five service aces to secure a 11-6, 11-6, 11-3 match. With both players having an early share of the lead, the Brahman put up a solid

performance, posting a 6-1 run for a 11-6 spread. However, De Chavez came through in, tallying a 4-0 run early with three service aces and an error from Magadia to chop the lead into one. Magadia then registered a 11-2 blitz to spoil DeChavez’

PHOTO BY Jameiah Ericka Macaraig

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WESTERNIAN PIONEER

efforts and move a game away from earning her first win in the series. The unstoppable paddler never looked back, leaning on her 10-1 run for a 11-3 victory, with a chance to earn a twice-to-beat advantage if she fortified her hold on the top.

PADDLE FOES. Stephanie Magadia tightens her backhand attack as she receives a serve from Saint Bridget in the Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) Table Tennis Opener last March 7.

stormed with a 6-0 run. UB’s Ian Ikalinga soared for a cross-court power spike to mark a 7-2 run against CCT that sealed the second canto, 25-15. Eyeing to finally put an end to the match, UB’s successful anglecut spikes from Rodriguez and Ikalinga, inflicted a 10-4 blitz to do a massive pushback against fatigue showing CCT. Rodriguez then turned into a defensive anchor as he secured four off-the-block points, neglecting CCT’s attempts on trimming the huge spread 18-11. UB then outraged with a 7-2 run, four points coming from Rodriguez’s spikes, to successfully cap the final salvo, 25-13.

Bueno-Flores’ gallant stand not enough to defend crown BY: JAYNIAH VINIELLE R. BARZA

niversity of Batangas’ Rancel Bueno and Juncer Flores crumbled in frustration after falling short against Alitagtag College’s Inc. Rence Cuenca and Carlos Jun Villanueva, 21-8, 1321, 18-21 in the best-of-three finals of Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) 2020 Boy’s Badminton Doubles. The Brahman duo failed to close out the game early, leading Cuenca and Villanueva to pull off an upset and snap the opportunity away of representing the division held at Batangas Badminton Center, March 8. UB was holding a one-point lead in the third, when the Cuenca-Villanueva tandem dropped a 6 to nothing run, following easy points from former’s errors, 15-11. However, Flores took matters on his own hands as he made up to their miscues, delivering powerful cross-court smashes to stop the bleeding and get to as close as 19-18. Brahmans had the chance to ice the game for good but it was Cuenca’s two on-point drop shots

that put the reigning champions to a place they have never been before since 2017. “Masakit kasi ngayon lang kami hindi makakaadvance, pero motivation na rin siguro para mas pagbutihin pa namin ang laro next year,” Flores said. The duo seemed headed to the Provincials in the opening canto, as they capped off an exceptional performance limiting their foes into a single digit, 8-21 that eventually faded during the second game when Villanueva rose to the occasion. Not settling for anything less than gold, Villanueva fired consecutive smashes to an error-plagued Brahman tandem after being tied at 13 apiece to gain the momentum for good.

Philippines’ “Hail Mary” shot a bust CRUNCH TIME Van Aeros Torres

Putting unprepared athletes into larger battlefields feels like shooting pistols against rifles while praying beads by beads for miracles

henever I see an athlete who forces a move, be it a game winning trey or a cross-court spike against multiple blockers, I can’t help but think if it was their actual plan back in their huddle or it was an effect of an adrenaline rush. Regardless, I call it a “Hail Mary” shotsomething that requires divine intervention in order to work. I picked up this term from most star players. Even though their stats are quite stellar, something from their game brings them away from winning. They might have a specific personal reason, but whatever it is, it ruins what their coaches have drawn on their whiteboards. I wonder how it felt to be their teammate who stands somewhere in the corner while hoping that the player will make it. And it dawned on me, perhaps that is how the other athletes for most unrecognized sports might have felt; used, overworked, and underappreciated. Undoubtedly, Sports Commissioners do not see sports as a wide spectrum of competitive scenes. Back when the Philippine Azkals failed to put up great fights in their qualifiers, I thought of things that could have made a great difference, may it be in terms of reconsidering the budget or coming up with professional leagues for the cold-shouldered sports, but I am mistaken. Because unlike Gilas Pilipinas that has a wide pool of players to choose from, other sports don’t have any. Therefore, seeing the Philippines’ other sports club settle below the leaderboards does not blow me with a surprise torso punch anymore. It is something that we might see for decades, not until the authorities will do something at the least. And so, with the presence of many other sports such as water polo, netball, or even athletics, I started to worry that the athletes who pursued these might have rotten behind the shadows of Gilas. What these athletes acquire is a dimmingspotlight every time they have to represent the country. If you’re paying a person to shoot a basketball, why not do the same to a person you’re asking to lift a weight? As much as Filipinos want to dominate the sports world, I fear that day will never come. However, I would love to see a Philippine sports team make a gold trophy feel their touch with Magoo Marjon shouting in the corner. It is only then I would say that the Philippines finally broke the curse and will not need any divine intervention to make it happen ever again.

SPORTS UBBC’s offensive explosion overwhelms misfiring UBLC to book Provincials trip

editorial

BY: ARON RAYNER MELO

niversity of Batangas Batangas Campus’ (UBBC) Basketball Team once again displayed their top dog form as the championship-known squad pulled off a 97-50 beating over UB Lipa Campus (UBLC) in the Private Schools Athletic Association’s (PRISAA) Basketball Finals to secure the basketball title at UBBC Gymnasium, January 18.

NEAR YET FAR B

y now, it should come as no surprise that the Philippines’ remarkable triumph in the recently concluded 30th South East Asian Games served as one of the crowning glories of sports. But as much as how we wanted to celebrate this superb performance, indeed, the battle towards change has just begun. We are still at par compared to what has been inscribed in the history, way back in 1979, to be exact. Project Gintong Alay (GA), a government directed sports program established in 1979 through Letter of Instructions No. 955 is one of the commendable programs that ever happened in the field of sports. Marcos launched this to help Filipino athletes unleash their full potential to dominate the international stages. Yet, this program has come to cease the moment Marcos was ousted, superseded by the Philippine Sports Commission by the Aquino administration. Even though this program went short-lived, it left its greatness by producing players with performances that up until now is arduous to surpass. It was worth noting that during these times, Philippines was constantly reaping podium finishes, not to mention athletes such as Lydia De Vega, Isidro del Prado, Eric Buhain and

Akiko Thompson Moreover, former who brought 8 Executive Director Olympic medals in of GA, Michael the country. Marcos Keon, have However, the clearly dedicated In retrospect, same cannot be himself with the GA ensured that said in today’s athletes, discovering, they have really situation for only nurturing them in been creating few of our athletes a camp situated the path for like Carlos Yulo at Baguio City. If and Hidilyn Diaz they were able homegrown have reached that to do it, then we Filipinos, hence world-class level. can also follow its it is high time What is more footsteps without to bring the disappointing sending our players program back. is the fact that off internationally. unlike before, Filipinos are breeding these two relied with vast but on their own untapped potential, ways, without getting adequate reality check, yet the current support from the government. government is occupied in finding The mere fact that Yulo trained in mixed race Filipinos in their quest Japan and Diaz asked the public for of improving the future of sports. funds is an unacceptable reality in Given the dirty politics in sports its sense. with the number of fingers dipping

PLAYER’S SIDE

MAMBA

OUT “ SEBASTIAN ROCIO

REMEMBERING KOBE BRYANT’S GREATNESS ON AND OFF COURT BY: RIVER DALE EVANGELIO

Matagal ko nang idolo si Kobe at yung “mamba mentality” niya sa loob ng court ay isa sa naging motivation ko when it comes to playing basketball. Laking pasalamat ko na nakilala ko sya dahil isa sya sa mga rason kung bakit ako nandito kung nasan man ako ngayon.

BASKETBALL PLAYER

“

Aside from his performance inside the court, naging idol ko rin si Kobe dahil sa humility nya. Minahal siya ng mga tao dahil sa good attitude niya narealize ko na sa laro kailangan mo rin ng good attitude para mas maging better athlete ka DERICK CARLO DOLOR gaya nya. BADMINTON PLAYER

into this aspect, let us not turn our eye blind to the fact that it is the athletes that are left to suffer the consequences, with no way out of these political conspiracies. The allocated budget keeps on doubling through the years, but the changes we are anticipating is still bleak.1.2 billion pesos has clearly no match with 12 to 16 million allocation during the program, but it is only this time that we are eyed as contenders and not just mere losers? They all have all proven to be slaves to money and power. Government and organizations must step up their games like how our athletes are doing their best to bring glory to the country. If we could just go back to the past and experience the Gintong Alay Program, then we would not have bear to see today’s Philippine sports’ almost success, just a second too late.

First timer Mendoza claims gold with finals sweep over UBLC’s De Leon BY: CHRISTOPHER JARDINE CAPUNO

niversity of Batangas Main Campus’ Althea Mendoza completed a stunning debut after sweeping UB Lipa Campus’ Vivien De Leon on her first ever Private Schools Athletic Association appearance at Batangas Badminton Center (BBC), March 8. Coming off with a loss from De Leon in the eliminations, Mendoza put herself into contention on the finals to exact revenge, blasting 11-9, 11-9, 11- 7 and 11-5 victory that consequently booked herself a ticket to the Provincials.

“Tinry ko agad alamin ‘yung strategies and weaknesses nya noong natalo ako, para aware na ako sa mga dapat kong gawin ‘pag nagharap ulit kami,” Mendoza stated, recounting how she managed to dominate her foe.

With both players knotted at 9, the rookie unleashed consecutive drives to complete a 4-0 run and gain the momentum. However, De Leon came storming back with a thrilling 8-1 run to assert a 17-14 lead that conspired

another fightback. The rookie then caught on fire and took no time to answer back to earn the first game with five consecutive backhands that proved to be shocking for her senior foe. During the second

PHOTO BY Jameiah Ericka Macaraig

While taking advantage of UBLC’s scoring woes, UBBC also dominated on the defensive end as they marked with 13 blocks and 8 steals to foil an upstart. UBBC’s Reynen Taripe stepped on the gas pedal as he crashed the paint with his back-to-back layups, setting an early tempo for UBBC, 18-8. Alongside Taripe was lethal spot-up shooter Sebastian Rocio who banked two consecutive treys to escalate the spread before closing the first quarter, 24-12. “Pinipilit naming magdominate agad as early as possible para ang task nalang is to sustain the lead,” Taripe said in an interview. UBLC leaned on their fast break plays as UBLC’s Angelo Bagon dropped a fast break point early in the second quarter, 26-14, when UBBC’s Szhainel Briones successfully fired two treys that started a 15-0 blitz. With Briones and Rocio orchestrating their outside offense, Taripe was doing the hefty job in the paint as he completed a three-point play to end the second quarter, 50-20. Though hot from beyond the arc, UBBC remained resilient in the paint as Dayle Bagsic opened the third salvo with backto-back points, 54-20. The lead then ballooned to 38 as Taripe converted his steal into a fast break point against UBLC’s small ball lineup, 60-22. UBLC’s Crus Marasigan then tried to pay back as he neglected the traffic in the paint with back-to-back reverse layups of his own, 67-31, just to see UB sizzle with a 10-0 run, all coming from the paint. Rocio paced UBBC’s fourth quarter with his multiple three-point daggers as he dropped four three-point buckets late in the fourth quarter, marking 20 points. Meanwhile, Bagon was the lone doubledigit scorer for UBLC as he made 12 points for his name.

game, De Leon put the clamps on Mendoza as she tightened her defense and suspended many of Althea’s efforts. Yet the rookie managed to pull things together and carry out a steady 7-5 game. Mendoza then sustained her fine

start and never gave De Leon a room to recover as she took a commanding 21-12 lead to seal the match. Together with Mendoza, who will be eyeing for gold in the Provincials is another Brahman pride, Derick Carlo Dolor.

CHASE DOWN. Althea Mendoza bolts to save a point in a match against UB Lipa Campus during the Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) Women’s Singles Badminton Championship match last March 8.

the

WESTERNIAN PIONEER

A W A Y

F R O M

T H E

BY: JAYNIAH VINIELLE BARZA & VAN AEROS TORRES

uring the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (CoVid-19) pandemic, economy, politics and education have taken a dip southward, and the sports world was not an exception. This unseen battle over an infectious sickness has boxed every nation into what we have known as our “safe spaces” inside our homes wherein people, even the stalwart athletes, were left with no choice but to embrace the “new normal”.

A PUNCH OF REALITY Ever since the rise of cases, authorities have been adamant in enacting regulations or even suspending all the scheduled games that includes limiting people that is deemed necessary - in short, no fans allowed. As weird as it may seem, people braced these types of changes for this will be the situation for a while. Even though excitement might fill every athlete’s veins in the post-COVID world, enabling trainings is just less of a dream. This was brought by a concern showing that an athlete might not get infected with just being exposed with a large crowd, but also by being directly in-touch with somebody who is a carrier - a teammate maybe, or a team staff, who knows? It would be as if the players were sheltered in a “bubble” wherein a single confirmed case can be costly that it can jeopardize the whole community. CHASING THE “NEW NORMAL” As the uncertainty of the country’s future persists to lengthen, athletes then are pressed to do personalized trainings by themselves that would test one’s selfdiscipline and mental capability. Indeed, there is a mix of disappointment that is welling up inside them, but as Philippine Sports Commission Chairman Butch Ramirez stressed, no sports activity can be held as long as there is no available vaccine—an indispensable thing which at this point takes forever to be discovered yet. Good thing coaches are there to keep the athletes healthy and fit. “Sobrang laking tulong lang na nag sesend si coach ng mga videos na dapat naming gawin para maging healthy and ready kung sakaling pwede na ulit maglaro.” Derrick Carlo Dolor said, a badminton player from UB. KICKING WITH THE TREND Due to the risks that physical sports offer on the table, authorities contrived an alternative way to keep in touch with the fans through the use of internet. In fact, an Online Daedo Open European Poomsae Championship where three Filipino jins completed a podium finish was recently streamed, manifesting a shift with the new norm. The scare CoVid-19 have brought upon the citizens forced them resort to the safest possible way as of the moment, and that is virtually. This will now also become the best moment to let people see the wildness of e-sports which is as strenuous as dominating a typical sport.

With the Covid-19 being the opponent that no team has ever prepared for in this season, the future of Philippine sports may seem bleak as treatments remain relatively unknown. Sure, it may take a while for things to really get back to the way it was, but in this battle over an unseen foe, the Philippines sports community’s game will never be over. The same sports that was able to secure people’s faith is ready to start over and face this new game. the

WESTERNIAN PIONEER

s e n o i Br BY: BJORN DEL DEADE

siya sa m g a subjects niya,” Ms. Glaiza Dipalac, his adviser, explained. A HUGE STEPBACK For months, the UB basketball team had no sight of jersey no. 3, and it undeniably took a huge hit on both the team’s performance. The coach was forced to draw up a different set of game plan which resulted to two losses. “Syempre ‘pag present siya sa team, nadoon ‘yong confidence na most likely ay mananalo

fter catching pneumonia last August 2019, 5 ft.11 University of Batangas basketball varsity team guard Szhainel Briones’s height became nothing more than a number; and for once in his young basketball career — he felt really small.

His condition forced him to go on a three-month hiatus from basketball, and to be confined in the hospital. It spelled hardships to his team, setbacks to his academics, and to his body, a cautionary tale — one he would take note of certainly. “Masyado kong inabuso yung katawan ko,” Szainel Briones of G11- Krypton said. “Sabi ko sa sarili ko, pagbalik ko dapat

HOW UB STAR BASKETBALL PLAYER BOUNCED BACK FROM A HORRIBLE SETBACK

mas malakas na ako.” A LONG TIMEOUT Having played in countless interschool games, the difficulties of missing out on school have become all-too familiar for Szhainel. As a STEM student, he knows that failing to attend even just a single day of classes could amount to piles of activities. What more with three months? To cope, he immediately reached out to his teachers after his recovery. “Noong umpisa pa lang kasi ay concerned talaga

SPORTS EDITOR: VAN AEROS TORRES

What awaits the Sports World after CoVid-19’s regime

SPORTS

Game Not Over:

feature

kami,” Sebastian Rocio, the varsity’s team captain, said. And though Briones was a huge loss for the team, Rocio still didn’t lose faith on his teammates. “Ramdam ko na binibigay ng teammates ko yung best nila na pumalit sa kanya dahil alam nilang may tiwala ako bilang captain.” BACK TO THE BALL GAME! By November, Briones had fully recovered and was finally discharged from the hospital. The ball was back in their court — and so

was he. Immediately, he found his hands palming the creases of the ball in United Calabarzon Collegiate League (UCCL) game last September, wherein they snatched the first-runner up. The loud squeaking of shoes and the exhilarating cheers from the crowd — surely enough, Szhainel had missed all of these sounds. With him back, the team pulled out victory after victory. He even won the Most Valuable Player award in a league

and ever since then, the meaning of final buzzer has never sounded clearer. For three months, Briones went head to head with pneumonia. Nevertheless, he went through with it thanks to the support of his family, friends, varsity team, teachers and many more.

He had won the game, and stood tall against his condition; now, he’s back to doing what he does best: standing tall against his defenders.

CHAMPS AT LAST

HYPER CARRY page 17 University of Batangas (UB) Boys’ Volleyball Team banked on Jude Rodriguez’s 21-point show to drub Christian Colleges of Tanauan (CCT), 3-0, during the Private Schools Athletic Association’s (PRISAA) Boys’ Volleyball Finals Match and secure...

Bren Esports spoils Omega’s Finals debut to claim MPL crown BY: RIVER DALE EVANGELIO

ren Esports copped their much awaited MPL PH title after sustaining archrival Smart Omega’s rampant finals-run to reign supreme in the best of 7 grand finals of the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Pro League-Philippines Season 6, October 26. Loaded with Sibol horsemen Angelo “Pheww” Arcangel, CJ Ribo, Allan “Lusty” Castromayor, Karl “Karltzy” Napomuceno, and rookie David “Flaptzy” Canon, Bren Esports pulled of a 4-2 beating against Omega to finally relish a title after failing in the Finals‘ stage back in

Seasons 3 and 4. Coming off from a total blow out loss in game 5, Bren managed to keep their winning stance as they denied Omega’s early to late game potential in game 6 with Pheww’s (Valir) early aggression and Flaptzy’s (Yu Zhong) escalating damage over time.

Omega tried to give an ample farming space for their under-farmed core Salic”Hadjizy” Imam by refusing to take Bren’s appealing antics. Omega, however, failed to execute their pickoff gameplay as Ribo (Uranus) easily sustained Omega’s damage, making

it easier for Karltzy (Harith) and Flaptzy to put on a killing spree in the 13:25 mark. Bren and Omega will be representing the Philippines in the upcoming M2 World Championship against the most-winning squads of the world.

NEAR YET FAR page 18 By now, it should come as no surprise that the Philippines’ remarkable triumph in the recently concluded 30th South East Asian Games served as one of the crowning glories of sports. But as much as how we wanted to celebrate this superb performance...

Rocio sustains high-scoring ways, cruises UB Main to triumph BY: LYKHA MAE GONZALES

niversity of Batangas Main Campus nailed ready-tosquander UB Lipa Campus after brushing off the Lipabased squad with a 21-16 victory to cap the Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) 3X3 Basketball Championship held at University of Batangas Gymnasium, November 7.

PHOTO BY Jameiah Ericka Macaraig

UNRELENTLESS. UBBC’s Reynen Taripe cuts for a lay-up to help the team capture the Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) Men’s Basketball Championship title last January 18.

Sebastian Rocio paced the Brahmans’ run as he delivered ten points and four defense-splintering assists to defy Lipa’s height advantage. The team captain orchestrated the squad as he rallied furiously in the fiveminute mark after draining two 2-point

daggers and a lefthanded layup to spoil Lipa’s James Laguardia’s late game resurgence and momentum. Rocio continued utilizing the paint with his pivot-jolting sidesteps and pump fakes to chip in seven points. However, Lipa

halted Main’s supremacy as James fired back-to-back 2-point jumpers to cut the lead down to three, 18-15. Rocio then refused to succumb to Lipa’s appealing comeback after elevating with a reverse layup and a game-sealing beyondthe-arc bucket, 21-15.

FIRST TIMER MENDOZA... page 18 University of Batangas Main Campus’ Althea Mendoza completed a stunning debut after sweeping UB Lipa Campus’ Vivien De Leon on her first...

“with WORDS, we GOVERN men”

THE WESTERNIAN PIONEER JANUARY - DECEMBER 2020 VOL. XXXVIII | NO. 2

“WITH WORDS, WE GOVERN MEN”

ARTWORK BY: VINCE NIGEL SON & ARON RAYNER MELO