CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: AQUINO – ADI LEUTERIO FOR ATENEWS; DE LOS REYES – ; ESTRADA – RALPH CALINISAN ON FLICKR; GORDON – PAOLO DOLINA ON FLICKR; MADRIGAL – JAN MIKKO CANARIAS FOR ATENEWS; PERLAS – JOSHUA MARK DALUPANG; TEODORO – JAN MIKKO CANARIAS FOR ATENEWS; VILLANUEVA – INQUIRER PUBLICATIONS, INC.; VILLAR – TED SELCON ON FLICKR; CEGP LOGO (C) COLLEGE EDITORS GUILD OF THE PHILIPPINES; ILLUSTRATION BY OGS ABLAZO FOR ATENEWS; PHOTO BY JAN MIKKO CANARIAS FOR ATENEWS; PANORAMA - PAOLO VILLANUEVA.
Aquino, de los Reyes, Estrada, Gordon, Madrigal, Perlas, Teodoro, Villanueva, Villar, and many more: Who will you choose? END THE SILENCE OF THE GAGGED!
THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF ATENEO DE DAVAO UNIVERSITY
AdDU Holds Mock Elections
Ateneans favor Noynoy, Mar, Dutertes by Joffreylle Opiano and Ma. Cristina Ramos
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Panaghisgut-hisgut 2010:
Presidential Forum In AdDU by Reymond Pepito
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undreds were gathered at Ateneo de Davao University’s Covered Court for the Panaghisgut-Hisgut Presidential Forum. People from different sectors including college students were there to witness the presidential candidates giving their response towards various Mindanao issues. Richard “Dick” Gordon together with his vice-pres. Bayani Fernando, were the first to step on the Ateneo campus. They decided to go early to have some chitchat with Atenean students while taking their breakfast. A lot of Ateneans were gathered around the two, taking pictures, asking questions, and sincerely listening to Gordon’s platforms
for Mindanao and for the country. Meanwhile, Gilbert Teodoro came out from his service and warmly welcomed by several youths, the crowd were clapping their hands, waving their green banners, and screaming Teodoro’s name. It feels like he owns the majority of the crowds vote with such scenario. At 9 AM in the morning, the program started. JC delos Reyes came first on the stage. It was undeniable that many young people giggled upon looking at the young presidential candidate, stunned by his visions and a bit of charisma. Richard Gordon came next. Gordon youth supporters (wearing red) were waving their hands and showing a see Presidential page 07
All About Partylists
n March 13 and 15, Ateneo de Davao University in cooperation with AdDU Comission on Elections conducted the “Mock Elections 2010” for the positions of President, Vice President and Davao City Mayor and Vice Mayor only. Using the automated system which is practically the same as the opensource voting system developed and used by the University of the Philippines – Diliman for its Halalan sa Diliman 2010 but only customized to fit the needs of the AdDU mock elections, students, faculty and staff of the university participated and cast their votes.
see AdDU page 07
Special Report: Finance Fiasco
see page 06
What they are and what they mean for you by Maryam Ross Embalsado n a Pulse Asia survey conducted last January 22 and 26, “only three out of 10 Filipinos are aware of the party-list system.” With barely a few days to go before May 10, campaign strategies for all political entities are more desperate than ever. Streamers and posters of party lists are plastered all over the cities and provinces. But do you really know how the party-list system works?
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What is the party list system? It is a system of representation in which socalled parties a re given seats in Congress in proportion to the votes they receive. This was introduced in the 1987 Constitution to ensure representation of the marginalized and under-represented sectors in Congress. Instead of voting individuals, parties are formed that share the same ideals and goals
see Partylist page 05
“Student writers from all over the country light up a candle to commemorate the 5th month since the Maguindanao massacre. Up to date, justice has not been served yet for the victims and their families.”
02 | Atenews National Elections 2010 Special Issue
Fearless EDITORIAL
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he gloves are off for Gloria Arroyo. Constitution. Granted, the remaining higher-ups With the specter of her various sins looming at in government may mobilize the military to action her doorstep seeking retribution come noon of June when and if civil unrest ensues following a failure of 30 onward and her popularity and credibility sagging elections, but that is the only role the armed forces to its lowest point since she assumed office in 2001 can ever have in any scenario, failure of elections or – her disapproval rating stands at 59 per cent while otherwise: as protectors of the peace, not as leaders her approval rating is at 14 per cent, according to the passing laws and governing our lives. latest survey of Pulse Asia – Ms Arroyo is resorting to While this is certainly not the first time Ms Arroyo scare tactics to prolong her grip to power. and politicians/crooks like her cooked up schemes On March 19, no less than the Malacañang and incidents to cling to the power, the newest trick itself floated the idea of a military takeover should a she and her cohorts employ are probably the most massive failure of elections be declared. insidious tactic done in recent memory. “As Arroyo does all By virtue of the 1987 constitution, This tactic feeds on our doubts and fears she can to keep the says deputy spokesperson Charito on the automation of election and using presidency, we must Planas, a military takeover may occur this fear to instill a sense of hopelessness, remain vigilant and in the chaos following the failure of the that despite our best efforts to vote and courageous, and never nation to elect a new set of leaders. do good by our country, the powerful and In this scenario, as envisioned by its power-hungry will still win in the end. The giving in to fear.” perpetrators, Department of National PCOS machines won’t work, your votes Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzalez and Armed will not be counted, so you might as well give up and Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Delfin Bangit, Ms Arroyo will let us stay, they seem to say. act as “holdover” president, enabling her to establish But as with all things, fear incapacitates for a climate in the form of a revolutionary government only as long as that which is feared is shrouded in where she can amend the constitution and turn mystery, and melts away into nothing once the light Congress into a parliament. Thus, Gloria wins, and of knowledge is shone in. The most dastardly plans God help us then. of Ms Arroyo and her minions will fail in the face of This, it need not be pointed out, is nothing but knowledge of the truth, and courage to seek the truth, political fear mongering. In the case of vacancy, and not be swept along in their plans. It is our duty, to Article II, Section 14 of the Omnibus Election Code our nation and ourselves, to know truth from lies, to clearly directs Congress to convene and pass within discern competence from spin. As Ms Arroyo bribes, 10 days a law calling for special elections to elect scares and does all she can to keep the presidency, a President and a Vice President, to be held within we must remain vigilant and courageous, discerning, 45 days to 60 days after this law is passed. Civilian informed, and never giving in to fear. power trumps military power at all turns in the 1987
ATENEWS The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University Vol. 55, No. 5 May 2010 National Elections Special Issue
Tel. No.: (082) 221-2411 loc. 8332 • E-mail: atenews@gmail.com
Editors-in-Chief Ma. Cristina Ramos, Paul Randy Gumanao • Associate Editor Reymond Pepito • Managing Editors Jobelle Obguia, Tom Louis Herrera • News Editors Maryam Ross Embalsado, Jan-Patrik Laroya • Features Editor Ma. Katherina Galope • Staff Adrian Ablazo, Sanju Chugani, Joselito Lagon, Jr., Joffreylle Marie Opiano • Layout & Design Karlo James David Bringas, Jan Mikko Canarias • Moderator Dr. Victoria Tatad-Pre COVERED COURT BUILDING, ATENEO DE DAVAO UNIVERSITY, E. JACINTO ST., DAVAO CITY 8000. ATENEWS is a member of COLLEGE EDITORS GUILD OF THE PHILIPPINES We accept articles, letters, pictures, comics and other contributions for publication.
Vol. 55, No. 5 May 2010 |03 friend from now until May 10. Politicians are still people, willing to do absolutely everything just to get ahead of the race. They might be putting up a façade to Ma. Cristina Ramos advance their ambitions and deceive the citizenry in the process. Leaving a good akaligo ka na ba sa dagat ng basura… contribute to this nation’s progress and impression to win the approval of the ”, “Di ka nag-iisa…”, “Sulong, lipad resurrection. They lavish us with sugar- people may be just a part of the game tayo…” coated promises of ending poverty, of which politicians are masters of. I’m pretty sure most of us get so fighting corruption, of improving the It is somehow ironic that one single annoyed at hearing even the first note country’s economy, and a whole lot of lofty day can determine the destiny of the of these political jingles. Long before ideas. They are too keen on making the nation for the next six years. It is during the campaign period even started, these public see them as benevolent individuals this day that politicians will for once feel can be heard everywhere—may it be in offering paradise in their hands, if and jitters in their stomachs, because it is the television, radio or the Internet—to only if the citizens would only give them on this day that the people’s discretion the point that these become subjects to a chance. It’s as if they would want to will decide who to put in the seat to lead our Last Song Syndrome. Nonetheless, appear as the invincible, kind-hearted, them. their television advertisements have humanitarian modern day heroes whom Selecting a leader is, as a matter concepts that are obviously well thought every Filipino silently clamors for. of fact, one of the most crucial decisions of which always leave a mark in the mind But reality check: Would their we would ever make. One misstep of the people. These are materials that promises ever come true? Or would we only may lead to disaster. With the newlyconvey the platforms of each candidate, be disappointed when we finally realize introduced sophisticated automated projecting an image of the perfect status that they are incapable of fulfilling their elections system, we should all be eager quo we deserve but are sadly deprived promises prior to the elections? Worse, to cast our votes and vote only for those of. And from the looks of it, these don’t what if they would take from public funds who rightfully deserve the privilege of come cheap. Does the money spent for it just to recover what they have paid for being the country’s leaders. The Utopian comes from their own pockets or are there their campaign the moment they assume dream politicians promise us during the financers who make these extravagant their tenure in the public office? campaign period may not be within reach materials come to life? It’s something Considering how one single event as of the present, but there remains hope that makes us wonder if they would let has the power to change the entire that the Philippines can still achieve their money go just like that or seeds of history of the nation, each Filipino has progress and transformation given that future payback are planted this early. the responsibility to be always on guard we choose the right leaders and given If we are only to believe everything when it comes to the upcoming 2010 enough time. Politicians put their best that the advertisements and “papogi” National Elections. A lot of research and foot forward but we should put our tactics of politicians vying for a spot reflection is necessary for this pursuit, so rational minds ahead of them, for it is in the office say, then we could easily we can choose candidates that can give the only way to take care of the country be deceived and waste our chance to Filipinos hope to get. Vigilance is our best we all are a part of.
Putting their Best Foot Forward
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lahat ng ito’y iilan lang sa maituturing makabagong pamamaraan ng pagsulong ng propaganda. Ngunit ang pakikibaka tungo Reymond Pepito sa pagbabago ay hindi nagtatapus sa simpleng shout-outs. lang araw na lang, gaganapin na ang Halimbawa na lamang nito ay ang Maging man sa pagmarka ng mga pinakahihintay nating eleksyon. Ang “nakaw text story” : “bilog na hugis itlog” ng ating balota. panahon kung saan tayo’y mamimili’t Noynoy: Hindi ako magnanakaw. Ang pagsulong ng mga tunay na lider at magdedesisyon kung sinu-sino ang nais Villar: Hindi na ako magnanakaw. indibidwal na may progresibong pananaw nating maihalal at manungkulan sa ating Erap: Babalik ako para magnakaw. ay isang solusyon upang malabanan ang bayan. Ito rin ang araw na magsisimbolo Gloria: Mga tanga! Wala na kayong mga gahamang politiko na walang ibang na tayo’y naninirahan pa sa isang bansang mananakaw! ginagawa kundi ay pangalagaan ang demokratiko sa kabila ng malawakang (evil laugh) LOL kani-kanilang pansariling interes. kurapsyon, paglabag ng konstitusyon, at Ang pakikipaglaban ay dumadaan pag-abuso ng kapangyarihan. Mapapansin natin na ang simpleng sa mahabang proseso kasabay ang Ang mga kabalastugang ito ay text message na ito’y hindi lamang tamang pagkilos. hindi na bago sa ating lipunan, wari bang gustong magbigay ng halakhak kung Kaya naman ay marapatin nating usisain kabilang na ito sa mga libo-libong gawain hindi’y kakabit nito ang mensaheng nais ang pagkatao ng mga tumatakbong ng sino mang nailuklok sa pamahalaan, magmulat at maghatid ng impormasyon politiko na nais maglingkod. Husgahan mula sa pinakamaliit na pwesto na dapat nating malaman. Ipinapakita natin sila ayon sa kanilang karanasang hanggang sa sentro ng kapangyarihan. lamang nito na gising ang mga Pilipino, na makiramay sa mga maralita, mga Marahil kakambal na ngang maituturing kahit sa text ay nagagawa nating gamitin manggagawa, mga magsasaka, at ng ang panlalamang sa ating politika. ang ating kalayaan at karapatang isiwalat mga ordinaryong mamamayang Pilipino Subalit, may pag-asa pa nga bang sa publiko ang ating mga hinanaing at na patuloy na nangangarap at nagsisikap masugpo ang mga ito bukod sa pagboto? personal na pananaw. upang makaahon sa kahirapan. Lumahok Nang nagsimulang bumandera Maging man ang mga simpleng tayo sa darating na eleksyon dala ang sa radio, telebisyon, dyaryo, at maging twits o komentong may kinalaman sa pusong uhaw sa pagbabago. Kumilos man sa ating mga lansangan ang samo’t politika sa ating mga facebook at twitter tayo’t pagyamanin ang ano mang bagay saring posters at political ads ng mga accounts ay isa nang ekspresyon na na ating maibibigay sa inang bayan. kandidatong tumatakbo sa taong ito, kahit papano’y tayo’y nakikilahok at ‘di Ang sagot sa tanong kung may ay siya ring pagkalat ng kabi-kabilang nagsasawalang kibo sa mga anomaliyang pag-asa pa bang masugpo ang mga text-messages na tumatalakay sa nangayayari sa ating bayan. Pati ang problemang mayroon ang ating lipunan pambansang eleksyon maging man sa industriya ng fashion ay ginawa na ring ay “Oo, May malaking pag-asa.” Pagmga kandidato. Gaya ng mga GM jokes instrumento upang ipahayag ang kanya- asang nakasalalay mismo sa ating mga patungkol sa mga politiko na ipinapasa- kanyang paninindigan sa pamamagitan kilos at desisyon bilang matapat na pasa sa ating mga cellphones. ng mga statement shirts at caps. Ang mamamayan ng Pilipinas.
Antayteld
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04 | Atenews National Elections 2010 Special Issue
K N O W Y O U R C A N D I D AT E S : P r e s i d e n t i a l P r o f i l e by Jan Patrik Laroya
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few days from now, we’ll all be going to polling precincts and cast our votes, but have you already decided which presidential candidate deserves your ink blot in the oval next to their name? If not, here’s an aggregated information that you have to know about each of the presidential aspirants: BENIGNO SIMEON “NOYNOY” COJUANGCO AQUINO III February 8, 1960 AB Economics, Ateneo de Manila University
TRACK RECORD Senator - 14th Congress (2007 - Present) Senate committee chair: Local Government Oversight committee chair: On Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Organic Act Representative 2nd District of Tarlac (1998 – 2007) Deputy Speaker House of Representatives (November 8, 2004-February 21, 2006) STAND ON ISSUES: Reproductive Health Bill: Issued strong statements in favor of the bill but also stressed that Filipino families should have the option to choose the family planning method they prefer. Charter Change: Not convinced that the country needs charter change, but said that he is open on it being studied. Peace in Mindanao: Noynoy said that his long term plan to address the peace in Mindanao is by the idea of cross pollination which means bring students from Mindanao to study in Luzon or Visayas and vice versa to build trust in one another. JOHN CARLOS “JC” GORDON DE LOS REYES February 14, 1970 University of the Philippines BS in Public Administration TRACK RECORD: Councilor STAND ON ISSUE: On political dynasty: Although he came from a family of politicians, De los Reyes swore to break up political dynasties.
NICANORJESUS “NICKY”/”NICK” PINEDA PERLAS, III January 10,1950 Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan de Oro City Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Major in Agronomy Minor in Agriculture Economics CAMPAIGN MESSAGE: We are in the midst of a conflict. It is taking place in the battlefield of our soul and in the great institutions of our society. There is no middle ground. Either we align ourselves with what is the best, the highest, and the most dignified in us, or we yield our spirit to the darkness that wants to swallow us through our apathy and inaction. The light of the new Philippines is upon us. We only need to awaken to see the brilliance of its promise. But we need to act together. Only by acting together can we renew our country. Only by acting together can we create a New Philippines, one that we have all been yearning for, one that will make a positive contribution to the highest aspirations of humanity.
EDUARDO “EDDIE” VILLANUEVA
JOSEPH MARCELO “ERAP” EJERCITO ESTRADA
January 10, 1950 Polytechnic University of the Philippines Bachelor in Commerce Major in Economics
April 19, 1937 MAPUA Institute of Technology Engineering Course TRACK RECORD: President of the Republic of the Philippines (1998-2001) Vice-President of the Republic of the Philippines (19921998) Senator (1987-1992) STAND ON ISSUES: Reproductive Health Bill: Estrada said that he will concentrate on giving women the free choice and will promote family planning. Charter Change: Opposed the move of the Arroyo administration for charter change because, according to him, it is a violation of the constitution. Peace in Mindanao: There should be peace and order to attract investors and flourish the economy
GILBERTO “GIBO” COJUANGCO TEODORO
TRACK RECORD: Longest sitting member of the Board of Regents of Polytechnic University of the Philippines Spiritual Director and President – Jesus is Lord Church Chairman - Philippines for Jesus Movement (PJM) Chancellor - Jesus Is Lord Colleges Foundation, Inc. STAND ON ISSUES: Reproductive Health Bill: Believes that the government should provide enough budget to construct health centers around the country with services like providing advice on a wide range of safe and acceptable family planning methods. Charter Change: In favor of Constitutional amendments through Constitutional Convention but only after the 2010 elections. Peace in Mindanao: In order to solve the problem, a widely consultative process and faithful implementation of the provisions of the Tripoli agreement must be set in motion to achieve peace in Mindanao. RICHARD “DICK” JUICO GORDON
JUNE 14, 1964 De La Salle University, Manila BS Commerce Major in Financial Institutions 1984 TRACK RECORD Secretary - Department of National Defense (2007-2009) Representative 1st District of Tarlac (1998 – 2007) STAND ON ISSUES: Reproductive Health Bill: Abandoned the bill, saying that RH Bill does not directly address the country’s issue on poverty. Charter Change: In favor of Charter Change because he believes that there’s a need for a more open structural political system and there is a need to empower congress. Peace in Mindanao: Said that he will put to end the armed revolution by enforcing the law. MANUEL “MANNY” BAMBA VILLAR JR. December 13, 1949 University of the Philippines – Diliman Bachelor of Science, Major in Business Administration and Accountancy – 1970 Higher Studies: University of the Philippines – Diliman Master in Business Administration – 1973 TRACK RECORD SENATOR (2001-PRESENT) SENATE PRESIDENT (2006-2008) Representative - Lone district of Las Piñas (1998 – 2001) Speaker of the House (11th Congress) STAND ON ISSUES: Reproductive Health Bill: Doesn’t support the RH Bill and leaves the decision to the people. Charter Change: Said that Charter Change should be the initiative of the people as long as Charter Change will not serve interests such as extension of a term in government position Peace in Mindanao: He believes that the problem in Mindanao can be addressed by elevating the status of living of the people, government’s armed forces should be strengthened and the armed forces should be respected.
August 5, 1945 ADMU AB History and Government University of the Philippines Bacherlor of Laws - 1975
TRACK RECORD: Senator (2004-present) Secretary - Department of Tourism(2001-2004) Chairman and Administrator Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (1992-1998) Mayor – Olongapo City (1980-1986) STAND ON ISSUES: Reproductive Health Bill: In favor of the bill and wants the population to have access towhatever methods are available. Charter Change: In favor of Charter Change. MARIA ANA CONSUELO “JAMBY” ABAD SANTOS MADRIGAL April 26, 1958 TRACK RECORD: Senator ( 2004-present) Currently the chairperson of the Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, Committee on Youth, Women and Family Relations, Committee on Cultural Communities and Committee on Peace and Reconciliation Authored and Passed the Anti-Child Pornography Law Undersecretary –Department of Social Welfare and Development STAND ON ISSUES Reproductive Health Bill: Said that the choice of spouses of family planning method should be respected. Charter Change: She opposes the move of individuals for Charter Change. If there is a need for Charter Change, it should be for expanding the pro-Filipino provisions. Peace in Mindanao: She believes that Mindanao should be developed along the lines of freedom from the ‘free market/free trade’ policies dictated by the IMF, World Bank and World Trade Organization and other foreign agencies
Vol. 55, No. 5 May 2010 |05
WHO TO LEAD DAVAO?
AdDU holds Mayoralty Forum
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ive individuals aspire to lead Davao City as they battle to achieve the city’s top position. However, two of these contenders have emerged to be capturing the hearts of the Davaoenos. The local political arena heats up as the seasoned House Speaker Prospero “Boy” Nograles and charismatic incumbent Vice Mayor Sara Duterte vie for the Davao City’s Mayoral seat. The young Duterte says it’s a new challenge for her but is ready to take this as she envisioned running for the office as early as her inauguration as the city’s Vice Mayor, owing to the fact that it is the last term of her father, incumbent Davao City mayor, Rodrigo Duterte who now runs for the position of the city’s Vice Mayor. On the other hand, Team Nograles clamors for a change in the local political system, thus his motivation to run for the city’s mayor. He stressed out that it’s about time to bring out a significant change to benefit the city dwellers. Undaunted, Vice Mayor Duterte rebuts her rival’s political tagline by stating that Davao City is not in a need for a change because apparently, the city has the best governance. Latest survey results released by Davao-based pollsters show that the Dutertes continue to enjoy a wide-margin lead over their rivals in terms of Davaoenos voting preferences.
Prospero Castillo Nograles Nickname/Alias: Boy Political Party: Lakas-Kampi CMD Age: 62 years old Current Affiliations: Banal na Pag-aaral Cursillo Movement- member; House of Representatives House Speaker Platforms: Philhealth cards, educational scholarship and livelihood funds
Partylist From page1
for the sectors they represent. In an arena where traditional parties dominate, the party list system encourages participation from the people itself, with the aim to pursue projects that will benefit their respective sectors and the whole nation as well. Twenty percent of the 260 seats, or 52 seats, in the House of Representatives are reserved for party lists. Every 2% of the total party-list votes cast a party contributes earns that party a seat in the House, with each party allowed only a maximum of three seats. For example, if the total votes cast is 2 milllion, 2% of that 2 million would earn the partylist who contributes it one seat in Congress. The party-list system is based on Republic Act 7941, which was signed into law on March 3, 1995 and was first introduced during the May 1998 elections. This now serves as the enabling law for party-list systems and elections. The asis for a party-list representation The 1987 Philippine Constitution is replete with provisions that emphasize the state’s responsibility in encouraging the formation of independent people’s organizations, non-government associations and party-list groups. “The State shall encourage nongovernmental, community-based, or sectoral organizations that promote the welfare of the nation.” – Article 2, Section 23 “The House of Representatives shall
Sara Zimmerman Duterte-Carpio Nickname/Alias: Inday Sara Political Party: PDP Laban Age: 30 years old Current Affiliations: Incumbent Vice Mayor, Davao City Platforms: Transparency and accountability in gov’t transactions, women’s reproductive health options, be composed of not more than two hundred and fifty members, unless otherwise fixed by law, who shall be elected from legislative districts XXX and those who, as provided by law, shall be elected through a partylist system of registered national, regional, and sectoral parties or organizations (1);” “The State shall respect the role of independent people’s organizations to enable the people to pursue and protect, within the democratic framework, their legitimate and collective interests and aspirations through peaceful and lawful means.” – Article 18, Section 15 “The right of the people and their organizations to effective and reasonable participation at all levels of social, political, and economic decision-making shall not be abridged.” Article 18, Section 16 Basic characteristics 1. It is a type of proportional representation Under Proportional Representation, the number of votes corresponds to the number of seats to which a party is entitled. 2. Two-percent threshold Under Section 11 (b) of RA 7941, “parties, organizations, and coalitions receiving at least two percent (2%) of the total votes cast for the party-list system shall be entitled to one seat each: Provided, That those garnering more than two percent (2%) of the votes shall be entitled to additional seats in proportion to their total number of votes.” 3. Three-seat cap Parties, organizations or coalitions are not allowed more than 3 seats in congress
by Ma. Cristina Ramos
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he Ateneo College of Law in partnership with Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Davao City chapter organized the Panaghisgut-hisgut: The 2010 Davao City Mayoralty Forum on February 25 at the AdDU Amphitheatre located at the 7th floor of Finster Building. The forum was attended by three mayoral candidates: Rodrigo Buezon Sr., House Speaker Prospero Nograles, and Rodrigo Jomoc Sulamin. Issues on education, peace and order, investment and infrastructures, waste management and urban planning/population were raised by representatives of various sectors in the city. Each candidate was given the chance to respond on those issues as well as to stress some points for the audience to remember. There were also two rounds of question and answer portion so that the audience can clarify some of their concerns. People from the local mainstream media and some students from the university gathered around the amphitheatre to witness the said forum and be aware of the candidates’ stand on several crucial issues that the masses are facing today. 4. Closed List system Votes are given to a party or organization and not the nominee or representative of the party. WHY SHOULD YOU CARE? The partylist system is frought with many defects. Almost all partylists are faced with the problem of low public awareness as well as meager resources, which make it difficult for them to get the required number of votes. And monitoring of new partylists for inclusion during elections are lax, as evidenced by sham “partylists“ that include among their ranks the likes of Mikey Arroyo, who is most definitely not a marginalized person. But the one important reason for rooting for a partylist is that the partylist enables the common Filipino to make a stand in Congress. Despite what politicians may claim as their humble roots, politicians are not like us. Politicians attend expensive schools, and they have a covey of rich allies or are rich themselves, and so have interests that in almost all cases will not jibe with the needs and wants of the common Filipino. Electing a genuine partylist that is true to its mandate of protecting the youth, women and other marginalized sectors, by putting, say, a farmer in the House of Representatives ensure that the interests of the farmers are not ignored when writing bills and doing projects that may harm them. The partylist system may be faulty, but we should care nonetheless, because this is our chance to have a say at how we and our country is run.
END THE SILENCE OF THE GAGGED!
SPECIAL REPORT finance fiasco THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF ATENEO DE DAVAO UNIVERSITY
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ast April 21, rumors spread that Mr. Rolex B. Ratilla, Finance Director and appointed University Officer-in-Charge, took a leave of absence and then resigned following allegations of corruption concerning anomalous checks and purchase orders. One faculty member speculates to ATENEWS that it is very easy for Mr. Ratilla to execute actions favorable to him financially, given his position as both Acting President and Finance Director. The corruption offense is currently under investigation while a special audit of the transactions is being done. Here below is a statement by the College Faculty Union regarding the controversy, taken from a press release given to the ATENEWS on April 27. – Jan-Patrik B. Laroya In the afternoon of Wednesday, April 21, 2010, faculty members of the College heard the shocking news that the University Treasurer, Mr. Rolex Ratilla was escorted out of the campus by the University guards and that he was henceforth barred from entering the campus. It became the talk in the Lounge and in the corridors. The following day, the rumor mill added more details about the incident. Mr. Ratilla was said to have been prevented from entering his very office the day before. He was only able to get in with an escort, and only to get a painting. Some of the details from the rumor mill turned out to be true. Others seemed to be exaggerated. But there was no word from any competent authority in the campus to provide an accurate picture of the situation. So the College Faculty Union (CFU) sought out some people who were involved in the incident and other eyewitnesses. Here are some of the facts CFU has gathered. In the morning of Wednesday April 21, a member of the university Board of Trustees approached Mr. Ratilla. According to source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, Mr. Ratilla was shown some checks and purchase orders (PO). Mr. Ratilla reportedly admitted that lapses were committed in the transactions. On April 22, a memo came out signed by Atty. Manuel Quibod, acting on behalf of the University President, Fr. Antonio S. Samson, stating that Mr. Rolex B. Ratilla “has conveyed to the President’s Office his desire to take a leave of absence for personal reasons.” However, our source said “he is on leave and might not come back (in the university).” A bank manager, after receiving a letter from the University, was quoted to have said that Mr. Ratilla was “relieved”. Thus, it is safe to assume that Mr. Ratilla is out of the university. The reason must be very serious, especially since Mr. Ratilla was Acting President of the University at the time he was barred from entering the campus. Our source said that a special audit is now being done and that a full investigation is forthcoming. We support the plan for a special audit of the Finance Office and a full investigation into the operations of Mr. Ratilla. IF a violation of law has been committed, the University should pursue a case in court. Any apology, reconciliation, or dialogue becomes a mockery when justice is not served. In the past, individuals who committed wrongdoings were reportedly allowed to go scotfree. Mr. Ratila has become legendary for sparing no one in his drive to reduce University expenses. From lowly janitor to the religious, everybody has a story to tell about Mr. Ratilla’s strictness in releasing funds. While indeed it is his job to scrutinize all faculty loan applications, travel allocations, procurement of office supplies, food budgets, hotel accommodations, research contracts, and honoraria, people complained that he sat on a lot of requests and even overturned some of the decisions of the College Deans. Report have it that he also modified or rejected the decisions of the University President. Recommendations We call on the University Board of Trustees to make some reforms in the university in certain financial procedures and transactions. Offhand, we suggest that: 1. Computers, computer parts and peripherals should be sourced from computer companies based on competitive prices instead of getting them from only one supplier; 2. Airline tickets may be purchased from airline companies that offer promos instead of being limited to only one airline company; 3. The Related Learning Experience (RLE) fees of the Clinical Instructors (CIs) should be recomputed. CIs complained that last semester (2009-2010) they failed to receive their due because of the new computation done by Mr. Ratilla; 4. Procurement of office supplies or equipment should be facilitated if it is within the approved budget and proper canvassing has been done; 5. Due consideration should be accorded to teachers asking for emergency loans.
Timeline of Events 19 April, Monday • Mr. Rolex Ratilla assumed as Acting President based on a memo issued by the University President, Fr. Antonio S. Samson S.J. on 05 April 2010. Mr. Ratilla was supposed to serve from 19-29 April 2010. 20 April, Tuesday • A top level meeting was held in the University. The meeting reportedly lasted from 6:00 pm to 1:00 am. 21 April, Wednesday • At 7:30 am, Mr. Ratilla arrived at the Finance Office. He met with ISFI and CFU Vice President Atty. Arnold Abejaron. He had a meeting with some persons President Conference Room (PCR). • At 11:00 am, two guards were alerted to stay at the main door of the Finance Office. A member of Board of Trustees approached Mr. Ratilla. Stand-by vehicles started to leave the campus to distribute letters to all banks in the city having a University account. The letter carried a message that Mr. Ratilla is no longer the university treasurer. • Fr. Anthony Pabayo S.J. assumed the post as acting University Treasurer concurrently as Principal of the Ateneo High School. 22 April, Thursday • A memo came out from Atty. Manuel Quibod (dated 21 April 2010) designating Fr. Anthony C. Pabayo as OIC of the Finance Office/Acting Treasurer until further notice and Atty. Manuel Quibod (Dean of the College of Law) as the University OIC from 21-29 April 2010. – College Faculty Union See the ATENEWS June 2010 release for more on this issue.
For the long term solution, the University will gain much if it establishes a Bids and Award Committee (BAC) to look into the operation of a franchise, procurement, and supplies. The BAC can look into the following services: procurement of computers (parts and supplies included), janitorial services, security services, construction materials, and books and Library materials acquisition. Such services are too big to be assigned to be assigned to only one individual, currently, the Finance Director.
Vol. 55, No. 5 May 2010 |07
Presidential From page1
AdDU From page1
full force cheer. When Jamby Madrigal came, a lot of women were standing to So who did the Atenistas favor as their candidates? Members of the Ateneo community express their bets in the mock elections held by the ADDU Commission on Elections, held on March 13 and 15. Data presented show support to this feminist presidential below courtesy of ___. candidate. Another aspirant Nicanor AQUINO LEADS THE PACK... (TOTAL OF 1998 VOTES) WITH PARTNER ROXAS HAVING A CLEAR LEAD. Perlas went on stage, since he’s an (TOTAL OF 1998 VOTES) AQUINO 938 Ateneo de Cagayan graduate, he has a lot ROXAS TEODORO 1342 686 of Atenean supporters inside the campus BINAY GORDON 315 152 but not that much like Gilbert Teodoro’s FERNANDO ESTRADA 150 61 supporters. He drew the crowd making LEGARDA VILLAR 80 81 him as their favorite when he stood up YASAY VILLANUEVA 26 23 MANZANO PERLAS 22 10 and took his seat on stage. Bro. Eddie CHIPECO DE LOS REYES 2 11 Villanueva with his yellow polo-shirt came SONZA MADRIGAL 3 3 late, Bangon Pilipinas supporters begun ABSTAIN ABSTAIN 58 33 to show their support, making him more 0 200 400 600 800 1000 0 300 600 900 1200 1500 confident and ready for the event. Number of votes Number of votes Mrs. Marie Tolentino-Fuentes was the one who read the questions that to be SARA SWEEPS THE VOTES... (TOTAL OF 1324 VOTES) WHILE DADDY DUTERTE LEAVES HIS COMPETITORS IN THE DUST. (TOTAL OF 1324 VOTES) answered by the presidential candidates. DUTERTE, S. 81 1097 The questions were mostly policy NOGRALES 23 167 questions that tackles about matters BUENZON 17 DUTERTE, R. 10 1150 here Mindanao. MARCELLONES 3 DE GUZMAN 11 111 The forum was actively participated SULIMAN 3 MACARAEG 12 ABSTAIN 37 ABSTAIN 51 by these aspirants. They expressed their 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 opinions, plans, programs, visions, Number of votes Number of votes and promises for Mindanaons. They’ve responded straight to the point towards LEGEND: Davao Main Non-Davao Main Davao High School Non-Davao High School Davao Grade School Non-Davao Grade School each crucial and intriguing questions. Moreover, 4 representatives fro different Technical Working Group Head Fr. Kim presidential bet Gibo Teodoro with 686 sectors raised their questions and gave Lachica, SJ stated that they ensure votes and Bagumbayan presedentiable each aspirants to answer such. Questions the integrity of the mock polls’ results Dick Gordon with 152 votes. came from power sector (issues about by preloading the list of the qualified For the Vice President position, power shortage in Mindanao), youth voters from the university’s database Mar Roxas comes first with 1, 342 votes. sector (more on voicing out Mindanao system. Upon presentation of the Jejomar Binay and Bayani Fernando come youths’ voice for lasting peace) women barcoded university ID, voters were next with 315 and 150 votes respectively. sector (about women rights and issued a computer-generated password. For Davao City’s highest privileges) and lastly from displacedNon-Davao residents were asked to government positions, father and youth sector (matters on Mindanao land vote for the two national positions only. daughter tandem Rody and Sara Duterte and resources). As the results of the mock polls were emerged victorious in the mock polls The forum ended around 12 noon. finally generated, it shows that Ateneans as they gained the majority of votes Bunch of voters were coming to their are rooting for Liberal Party presidential for the Mayor and Vice Mayor posts. presidential bet and asked for picturecandidate Noynoy Aquino with 938 The said whole day event took taking. votes, followed by Lakas Kampi CMD place at rooms F600 and F601. The presidentiables then proceeded to the Ateneo’s Mini-Auditorium for a press conference. Sad to say but the press con. ATENEWS joins the call for justice for the victims of the Maguindanao massacre. was then postponed because only one Detain the suspects! Hold fair and thorough trials! No to impunity, never again! member of the press came and raised his question towards the candidates. Delos Reyes, Gordon, and Madrigal took their lunch at the said venue while the 70th CEGP NSPC and 35th Biennial Sudent Congress held other three candidates left the campus. by Joffreylle Marie Opiano
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he College enhance their Editor’s Guild journalism skills, of the Philippines and broaden their held the 70th knowledge of National Student literature and the Press Convention arts. Aside from and the 35th the classroom Biennial Student discussions, Congress last various forums April 2125 were conducted at Mambukal that tackle Mountain Resort, the upcoming Murcia, Negros elections and Occidental. Filipino culture. ATENEWS sent ATENEWS staffers take time off from forums and events. Right after the four delegates to commencement the convention; of the Biennial outgoing Editor-in-Chief Ma. Cristina Ramos Congress, a plenary was held where the and Staff Writers Paul Randy Gumanao, student writers were given a chance to pass Joffreylle Marie Opiano and Reymond Pepito. resolutions which, if approved, would then The five-day Convention was packed be forwarded to the Congress. with activities that expose the participants To commemorate the 5th month of to current realities and enhance the student the Maguindanao Massacre, the participants writers’ abilities. The participants were given staged a candle lighting ceremony calling for the chance to enroll in classes that would justice for the victims and to put a stop to help them understand marginalized sectors, journalist killings.
08 | Atenews National Elections 2010 Special Issue
Lust envy sloth pride greed Wrath Gluttony we are now open for contributions
Banaag
Diwa
Seven Deadly Sins Tula . Maikling Kwento . Sanaysay . Litrato
submit your entries to
atenews@gmail.com We are still accepting poems, short stories, essays, cartoons, and pictures for inclusion in Banaag Diwa 2010. Submit your entries at our office or e-mail us at atenews@gmail.com. Include your real name (and pen name if you so desire), e-mail and contact number with your entries.
Wanna be part of the ATENEWS? Watch out for our staff exams sometime in June or early July 2010, and drop by our office for more information. WATCH OUT FOR THE LATEST, THE COOLEST, AND THE HIPPEST... ONLY AT THE FIRST EVER ADDU STUDENTS’ SOCIAL BLOG, COMING TO YOU SOON!
Be part of our team! If interested, please contact Jan-Patrik Laroya at jplaroya@gmail.com and at 09325554923.