2016 Election issue

Member of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines VOL 61 NO 3 Election Issue atenews.ph

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University - Established 1955

Atenews

End the Silence of the Gagged!

@atenews

2 1

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

EDITORIAL

ROWDY COCKFIGHTS

WITH DAVAO-FAVORITE Mayor Rodrigo Duterte finally running for president, his infamous loudmouth has not escaped national controversy.

Duterte’s utterances on many issues, from Pope Francis and traffic to mathematics education, have left a sour taste in the mouths of many. However, despite the many times that this has occurred, diehard supporters have spent every chance to defend him in social media.

This is true for the other presidential candidates. The Facebook pages of the presidentiables are flooded with

supporters voicing out reasons why their pick deserves to become president. This is dangerous when supporters shut down any other choice but their own, effectively skewing conversations to one side. Worse, in defense of their pick, supporters lash out personal attacks instead of sound arguments. This might not describe everyone, but this sentiment is evident and overwhelming.

While it is admirable for an individual to participate in national politics, and that there is nothing wrong in choosing a candidate to support, it is reprehensible

to be blinded by fanaticism and refuse discussion. This applies not only to national politics, but also to the local and even school level.

For one, political candidates are not infallible. Not everything they say must be immediately accepted and defended. There are some who do not share this sentiment and defend anything and everything that comes out of the mouth of their chosen candidate.

Another thing to note is that the opposing candidates are not always wrong as well. Whatever they have

to say must not be immediately discredited, ignored, or reinterpreted solely because they are the opposition.

It is noble to do everything in one’s capacity to support the people whom the person believes will serve the country (or other political body) best. What must be done to improve on this is to allow constructive discussion among various parties. This is achieved when people do not isolate themselves in exclusive domains that purely support one entity alone and instead allow others to challenge their opinion.

Atenews invites the student body to participate in political discussion as well as to engage with opposing opinions to ultimately reach an informed vote.

Politics is not cockfighting. Voters do not initially place bets and thrash about just so that their chickens will win. In politics, the opposite is true. The bets are votes and the matches are the election period. Only after the dust will settle could we finally decide on who to support.

Before that happens, anything goes.

EDITORIAL BOARD • Le Katrina Dolino Kate Editor-In-Chief Dianne Punay•Editor-In-Chief Steely Dhan Caballero • Minnie Associate Maboloc, Mary Editor Gyle • Minnie Manuba Maboloc, Managing Mary Editors Gyle•Manuba Joshua Jesher Managing Arsenio Editors News•Editor Katrina Katrina Guilonsod Guilonsod NewsAssociate Editor • Ian News Derf Editor • LeAssociate Salvaña Grande Dolino NewsFeatures Editor •Editor John Paulo • Janine Vicencio Carla Abejay, Features Steely Editor Dhan • Katrina Caballero, KateDexter Dianne Vaughn PunayMancao Honorary ArtEditor Editors John Paulo Vicencio Social Media Editor WRITING STAFF • Glen Sol Mariano Basilisco, Senior Joshua Writer Andrei • Rey Bon Andrew Gilles, Alonsagay, Sol Mariano, Glen Andrea Basilisco, Isabelle NinaMejos, Patricia Mikel Cesar, Steven Joshua Luy, Andrei Reil Benedict Bon Gilles, Obinque, Francesca Anna Maree Sophia Testa, Tarhata RaphilPiang, Vince Saguan, Francesca IanMaree Derf Salvaña, Testa Senior LilibethWriters Diane Yu• Junior Julien Jame Writers Apale, Rebekah Gail Celis, Christian Espartero, Froilan Michael Gandionco Jr., Avegail Gimeno, Ram Manlatican, Aivy Rose Villarba Junior Writers

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

3

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

WHO'S TO BLAME FOR ATENEAN APATHY?

KATRINA GUILONSOD/BLACK PROPAGANDA “GRABE, KA apathetic jud nimo” is a common line among Ateneans. Observing the behavior of Ateneans during political activities became a norm for students and we’ve been a victim of this stereotype of being “apathetic”.

It is undeniable that the political participation of Ateneans is slowly decreasing year to year. Having this situation prevalently occurring is alarming to the university who promotes its “sui generis” brand of leadership for its students to actively participate with different social issues. But what seems to be the cause of this declining behaviour towards political activities? Is it the

people involved? Or is it the so-called apathetic attitude of the students?

This can be explained with political efficacy, which refers to the students’ confidence that their actions have an impact on the functioning of the student government. It is also the belief of the students that their student government is responsive enough to their concerns.

Research showed that Ateneans aren’t really “apathetic.” The urge to be politically active is still present among the students. However, their schedule and priorities, lack of information, and their belief of being unable to affect

change influence the current political situation.

Personally, I sure did experience feeling these conflicts which resulted to me not participating into activities. But as these data came into the surface it became validation to how students perceive politics as something complicated. Student politics is not understood by the students as being an avenue to lobby our concerns and thoughts to the school administration. The SAMAHAN seems to be only seen as the logistics committee of admin towards school events instead of the one leading the students.

This is not an issue of

Ateneans being apathetic anymore because the results show a vague problem which provides broad possibility of solution. The research proves how lacking our university is in empowering our students to be politically active.

Though the efforts from SAMAHAN can be commended because they are also trying their best to get the students to participate, this “attitude” of Ateneans seems to become a mystery or an unfinished puzzle piece that is waiting to be solved by future student leaders. And we can start solving the mystery by getting ourselves to participate

in the upcoming SAMAHAN elections.

It is a tough job to really get students back into actively participating in political activities but the efforts should be amplified in order to encourage students. Most importantly this goes to the aspiring student leaders to look for effective ways in getting the students to genuinely participate and to not just to be elected and get the label of being a “president” or “div reps” for show.

It should be a show of true and genuine essence of what student leaders should be.

LOSING, WINNING

KATRINA KATE DIANNE PUNAY/WHAT'S WHAT WE KNOW the cycle. Someone decides to run. Someone else runs. And another. And another. Then an issue about a candidate is brought up. Which will be followed by another candidate’s issue. Followed by another. And another. That’s just how it goes. Politicians know how to play—or at least, ideally, they should. Some games are too entertaining, though, that they only get talked about pathetically.

Their games don’t make them look appealing. They only make them desperate.

We can critic any national candidate we want to, for indeed, if their strategies earn them more haters than supporters, how can the Filipino

people give them their votes with confidence? It only shows how they (and their campaign managers) implement their plan/s. They only risk their credibility to hold the position they’re running for. However, more than getting our thoughts in the national scene, now that the 2016 Samahan Central Board election is here, we can expect familiar scenarios. The question is, how should we see school politics beyond the national scene today transcending mere personal attacks to be better-looking for competition?

This isn’t about who to vote or who we shouldn’t. It’s about our attitude during

the campaign period. How are we different from candidates and supporters who use bad blood to get attention or clear their names?

Schools serve as training grounds for us to be better Filipino citizens. Our being students in this university will pass. The real deal is when we are outside. The real deal is when we have already graduated. What do we do to still lead? Will we be contented with a secured life our resume has given us?

We all want good leaders. Those who are not just after good resumes. Those who we see are for genuine servant-leadership. Those whose principles lead them

to have advocacies they have passion for. Those who we are truly for the students and the people. Those who show they want to bridge the gap between the school community and society. Then show it in action. That is, after all, how a leader is.

Many will attempt to judge candidates, but the best to do that will always be those who have seen them lead and serve the best way they know how. Which makes it more complicated since most Ateneans have not worked with all of them to have well-thought out comparisons. The majority can only depend on platforms.

Hopefully not for mere fa-

miliarity of names.

A teacher once told me that winning an election is not the big deal. It’s about a continued alliance among the candidates who took the risk. Those who lost can always support the winners for their vision to be realized—if ever they really do have. It’s not about names, but the intentions. It’s not about who they are, but what and who they stand for.

“Losing, but supporting— that is true leadership,” he said. I only hope to see that after this election.

TECHNICAL STAFF ••Mark MarkLouie LouieBalladares Balladares,Head Christine Photojournalist Joice Cudis, Camaela • Camaela Mijares, Mijares, Gian Alexis KarloMatthew Sam, Raymond Reyes, Raymond TrespecesTrespeces Photojournalists Senior Photojournalists • Edrienne Carl Militar, • Adlin Gerson Joey Almencion, Polino, Dominique Kent Matthew Francesca Costales, Te Junior Renneth Photojournalists Ena Ode Cartoonists • Dominique•Francesca Jairah-MaeCostales Viduya Head Layout Cartoonist and Graphics • Renneth • MariaEna Roselle Ode, Alberca Gerson Poliño Web Development Senior Cartoonists Head •Adulfo • MariaEmmanuel Cyra Dealca, Respecia Raf Maurince Web Development Tacder Junior•Cartoonists Alexa Valderama Videographer Jairah-Mae Viduya • Jonathan LayoutJavellana, and Graphics Lovelle Head Lorenzana • Eloisa Jean Liwanag Aniñon, Video Myrile Editors Cadalzo, Mark Vincent Lerio Junior Layout and Graphic Artists • Jonathan Javellana Senior Video Editor • Joseph Nasser Junior Video Editor • Alexa Valderrama Videographer • Alexis Alvarez, Jessa Daang, Joenabie Gamao Web Developers MODERATOR Nelson Mañigo • Tabloid Design Steven Adrianne Chua MODERATOR Fr. Erwin Rommel Torres • Tabloid Design Steven Adrianne Chua

4 +

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

BLUEBLOOD

NOW SHOWING: 2016 SAMAHAN ELECTIONS

AN ANONYMOUS SUBMISSION A NEW cast of characters is out. Each one with his or her own stories, ambitions and promises, own supporters, posters and even catchphrases.

No, this is not a show. This is the elections.

Elections are supposed to be the most important season of the school year. It’s the time when students exercise their right to vote and choose the leaders who will be representing and serving them. It’s supposed to be a time of critical assessment of the previous administration’s strengths and weaknesses and a serious consideration of the future direction of student-centered policies.

Of course, that’s the ideal.

In reality, the elections play out like a movie. It’s got it’s own mix of action, comedy and lots and lots of teleserye-level drama. At least, this is how I see the elections since I was a freshman.

First, you’ve got the actors.

The bold few that decide to run for positions. You know it's election season when all of a sudden, these people who probably don’t even know your name become extra friendly and they look you in the eye and say that they’re concerned about your concerns. You thought you’ve escaped their cheesy clutches but when you go to the gazebo or the cafeteria, you realize you’re dead wrong. Their faces are plastered all over tarpaulins and they’re still looking at you from the TVs in their ads. If there was a lesser evil, it would have to be the tarps and posters because when they open their mouths it’s a Pandora’s Box of ambitious promises and recycled platforms. If “Transparency” “Informa-

tion Dissemination” and “Student Empowerment” is something that almost every single candidate claims as platforms every single year, then something is definitely wrong. It’s either no administration is ever able to achieve those things at all which is why it is a recurring concern or the candidates just aren’t smart enough to think of something new.

By the way, stating your job description is not a platform. If an actor, I mean a candidate, can’t even think of a decent platform, then they’re most likely awful at doing anything else let alone something important as a student leader.

Speaking of platforms, they are a vital part of any election. By definition, they are the “declared policy of a political party, person or group.” They are crucial because one of the ways we can determine how we want to address key issues is by choosing candidates whose platforms we identify with.

We can also hold leaders accountable by reminding them of what they promised.

This is why the fact that there is a shortage of decent platforms and a critical assessment of any existing platforms is alarming. It is in these conditions that bad politics thrive because voting for leaders becomes less about what the candidates is able and willing to do and more about who they’re affiliated with. To be honest, I don’t even see what the difference between candidates of different parties are.

I can recall instances when I asked candidate X what sets his party and platforms apart from his opponent and I couldn’t get a satisfactory answer. Surely, they differ in structure and methods, but even the candidates

that they fielded in previous elections had similar platforms. In fact, parties don’t matter that much in principle that last election season, we saw candidates ran independently but banded together and kind of formed their own pseudoparty. So why do we still have them?

Since the platforms aren’t the point of contention, candidates focus on other things in order to sway votes. They make up catchy acronyms and repeat their last name over and over.

They show off their party colors, give out pieces of paper with their faces on it, as if we haven’t seen enough which eventually makes up most of the trash. They’re even willing to do song and dance numbers even if they aren’t good at it. All because they’re actors, I mean, leaders. This is probably the reason even if there are platforms, because you know, they’re still required to have platforms, these are very general statements.

They don’t bother to explain how exactly they are going to achieve those platforms or why those platforms matter in the first place. If they are asked to explain their platforms though, they often just repeat their script.

But apparently, that’s okay.

They’ve got a bunch of supporters who would applaud whatever they would say.

But the actors aren’t the only problem. The audience: the voters, you, me and the rest of the student body are also to blame. Student politics kind of works like any other industry in the sense that their gimmicks and antics wouldn’t work if there wasn’t a demand or at the very least a tolerance of them. They wouldn’t resort to this mediocrity if they were subject to a critical

student body. Unfortunately the students we have right now are mostly uninterested in these affairs. If there are people who are often present in election season activities like Miting de Avance, it's usually just the supporters of those candidates. Most of them don’t even listen to their own candidates. Their role in life is to shout, clap and wave balloons. Try and ask any one of them why they support a candidate. I bet they’re going to say that it’s because they’re friends or from the same party and that’s it. Apparently, it doesn’t matter if we’re putting an incompetent person in power as long as they know about your existence and you’re classmates, right?

Don’t get me wrong. I am not saying that all students are apathetic and stupid. I am also not saying that all candidates are self-absorbed and that none of them genuinely want to be "men and women for others.” In fact, I can consider myself lucky to have met some hardworking and kind people who are active in student politics.

I admire their willingness to spend most of their time serving us when this time could have been spent on academics. I admire people who truly have plans to better our experience in the university. They are people that deserve our respect but often it is these people who are outside the spotlight. They, I believe are the most tragic victims of this system because they have to pick up the weight of their incompetent colleagues or fall prey to the cruelty of political opponents or be exasperated by a student body unwilling to cooperate. I also admire those who may not be student leaders but are critical in assessing their every move and take measures to inspire others to do the same.

To be honest, I didn’t want to write this because I feel like this won’t make a difference. Worst, it might just stir ill feelings and offend.

But I decided that I was tired of this. My silence, our silence and the whole act of

pretending that everything is fine will only sustain an environment conducive to this unhealthy culture.

I am writing this because I know that we Ateneans are capable of something better.

We are capable of a healthy constructive and competitive type of elections instead of one where some parties backbite and personally hurt each other.

I am writing this because the culture that we nourish and embody during our stay in the university is something that we carry with us even when we graduate. This is the reason why the student politics in our university share some eerily similar characteristics to that of the national elections. It’s because we are nurturing a mindset and the moment that we realize that there is something wrong with it, it would be too late and difficult to reverse it. That’s why we need to do something about it while we still can.

Of course, it isn’t easy.

But if there’s anything I’ve learned, it’s that the first step to solving a systematic problem is recognizing that we are part of it instead of pointing fingers at each other. Recognizing that you are part of the problem, you must then take steps to help improve the situation. There are many ways we can do this. We can learn about our candidates platforms. If a platform is vague you can ask candidates to explain it when they campaign in your classroom. Make sure you choose candidates who also walk the talk. You can also inquire into their track record. But don’t just stop after the elections. You should remain critical throughout the entire school year and participate in school events.

And so passes another election season. Let us hope this time it won’t end up as another bad movie that wins an award anyway but nobody wants to watch.

That would just be disappointing.

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

2 NATIONAL

5

FOR PRESIDENT CORRUPT OR REFORMER? REBEKAH CELIS, ANNA SOPHIA TARHATA PIANG, & SOL MARIANO

AS A penny-scrapping orphan turned multi-millionaire politician, Jejomar “Jojo” Binay won over the hearts of millions of Filipinos when he ran as vice-president with his pro-poor platforms and his story as a human rights lawyer who fought against dictatorship.

However, he gradually began to lose them when he was dumped with allegations of corruption and acted in a behavior unbecoming of a state leader.

This shift eventually begged the question: Was Binay ever fit to lead?

According to a biographical article by Rappler, being orphaned at a young age, Binay was raised by an uncle and had to work odd jobs such as cooking pig feed in order to pay for his primary schooling since his uncle could not shoulder all the expenses.

He eventually became a student at the University of the Philippines-Diliman, earning a degree in Political Science.

Afterwards, he pursued law at the UP College of Law, and passed the bar examinations in 1968 after graduating.

During his years as a lawyer, he particularly advocated for human rights during the Martial law regime of then President Ferdinand Marcos.

His progressive acts eventually earned a year of imprisonment at the Ipil Rehabilitation Center. He was only released when the Marcos regime fell.

After the EDSA Revolution, Binay was appointed by

the late President Corazon Aquino as the acting mayor of Makati from 1986 to 1987.

He then ran and was elected as mayor from 1988 to 1998.

During his mayoral term in 1990 to 1992, he was also the chair of the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) for two terms.

During his terms as mayor of Makati, he implemented ordinances that were meant to provide public service.

Notably, he passed an ordinance to provide relief goods to all typhoon victims, including the victims of typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan).

He also ordained a smoking ban similar to that of Davao City.

The article by Rappler also noted that when Martial law fell apart, Binay took the opportunity to pursue his education.

In 1980, he took a Master of Laws degree at the University of Santo Tomas (UST). In 1990, he studied Masters in National Security Administration at the National Defense College of the Philippines. He also learned Strategic Business Economic Program at the Center for Research and Communication.

In 1992, he was a part of the senior executive Fellows Program at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. Still in the same year, he was given an honorary degree as Doctor of Public Administration by the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP).

In 1993, he received a diploma in Land Use Program from UP. In 1996, he finished the Top Management Program at the Asian Institute of Management in Bali, Indonesia. In 1997, he took another course on Joint Services and Command

at the Joint Services and Command Staff College at the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

At the Philippine Christian University, Binay took a Master’s degree in Management in 1998.

In 2004, he received a diploma in Environmental and Natural Resources Management from UP Open University.

His educational background and reputation as a human rights advocate and anti-dictatorship campaigner earned him the trust and will of many Filipinos.

It was also because of his influence and connections in local government units that he was able to turn the tides in his favor and defeat then-initial vice-presidential front runner Mar Roxas during the 2010 elections.

Binay is also currently the president of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP).

Although he was initially the favored candidate, Binay soon lost many of the support he gained when his name became involved in various controversies.

Various graft and corruption charges were filed against Binay. He was allegedly influential of the anomalies, which allowed for the construction of the 11-storey Makati car park building.

There were several reports of both citizens and politicians commenting that the building was unnecessarily extravagant and large.

He was also associated with the alleged rigging of the bidding for the construction of the 10-storey Makati Science High School building.

It was reported that

the construction of both buildings cost over a billion pesos.

As a result of Binay's supposed involvement in the corruption charges, the Court of Appeals froze the vice-president's bank accounts that accumulated about P600 million.

Binay also failed to appear several times in court hearings regarding the corruption charges against him.

Apparently, Binay, through the city government of Makati, also owes debts to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). Reports stated that BIR ordered the Makati City government to pay P1.2 million in deficiency taxes.

Binay was also scrutinized for certain publicity stunts in social media which included pictures of him eating with the poor and eating meals in local places.

More recently, various social media users scrutinized Binay due to a published image of him wearing a BSP uniform while

walking on a trail of chairs in order to avoid getting dirty while being assisted by several men.

Many netizens criticized him for not trailing the mud like the boy scouts did since it means that he does not stand by the principles and values of BSP, which he is the president of.

Binay's humble beginnings and progressive advocacy track record are indicators of principles and values that are sympathetic to those of the Filipino masses.

However, even with his remarkable educational background and progressive advocacy experience, Binay has shown that by refusing to perform the simple duty of a young Boy Scout, as well as to appear to defend himself against graft charges, Binay is much more than what his track record paints him to be.

These facts all boil down to the question asked before: Was Binay ever fit to lead?

6 2

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

CANDIDATE STORY DAVAO'S DUTERTE: UNORTHODOX BET discriminated against by real estate agents.

He also implemented a smoking ban in public places in the city, a mining ban, a speed limit ordinance, and an emergency response system, the latter making Davao City the third location in the world that utilizes 911 as its emergency number.

Duterte’s 'No' to 'Go'

FROILAN GANDIONCO & AIVY ROSE VILLARBA ONE OF the biggest clamors today is the call for change and some believe that only one man could accomplish such goal. He is known for his strong character, unorthodox ways, and solid list of accomplishments.

He is widely recognized as he transformed a crimeridden city into one of the safest. And as elections are coming up, he vows to do the same for the entire the country, no matter how difficult. Would he be able to live up to his word?

Biography Popularly referred to as the man with an iron fist, Rodrigo Roa Duterte, or commonly known as “Digong” was born at Maasin, Southern Leyte.

News reports stated that he studied at Sta. Ana Elementary School in Davao and then spent his high school at Holy Cross of Digos. He then studied in Lyceum of the Philippines for his tertiary education and finished law in San Beda College.

Duterte worked as a City Prosecutor for Davao City for about a decade. He then served as vice mayor for two years. In 1988, Duterte took

the seat of mayor, where he sown his unparalleled legacy. Duterte then became one of the country’s longestserving mayors. He has been a Davao City mayor for 7 terms.

Duterte’s firm commitment to peace and order is reportedly brought about by his exposure to crime in the city when he was growing up.

Achievements The nickname “The Punisher,” has been associated with him as he is known for his unconventional methods of implementing the law, such as his passive support of the Davao Death Squad. This arrangement, however, proved to be very economically and socially beneficial for the city since it later uplifted Davao from its reputation as a crime capital.

Duterte firmly believes that the key to progress and development is peace and order.

Moreover, he was the first to give formal representation to the Lumad and Muslim community, designating deputy mayors to represent their interests in the local government. The antidiscrimination ordinance he supported was reportedly a response to news he received that Muslims were being

A report from GMA News Online stated that COMELEC Chair Andres Bautista said the en banc voted 6-1 to accept Duterte as substitute for Martin Diño, who filed a certificate of candidacy for president under PDP-Laban then eventually withdrew it, appointing Duterte as replacement.

Duterte took his oath on December 8 before the notary of the Comelec to formalize his candidacy, also formally accepting the challenge of his supporters after rejecting it multiple times prior to the filing date, CNN Philippines reported.

Platforms Duterte is an avid advocate of a federal Philippines. He claimed that federalism would provide a lasting solution to the demands of the Muslims and other cultural minorities for a recognition of their historical and indigenous rights to a multi-cultural community.

Duterte also proposed a partnership with the private sector to help keep food prices stable. He said the government should spend on agricultural research to help farmers produce more at a lesser cost.

One of Duterte’s most significant goals is to establish peace and order in the country. He told the media that he would make sure that the criminals would be afraid of the law. As quoted from his Christmas video, “ito na ang huli niyong merry Christmas.”

Moreover, Duterte proposed to abolish laws that have become a refuge for criminals. Cited in a Rappler report, Duterte said he plans to repeal the juvenile delinquency law, “which syndicates have used to train young kids to commit crime, protected by the mantle of impunity due to young age.” He also pledged to re-impose the death penalty for heinous crimes, such as drug trafficking and drugdealing, online sources said.

Finally, he stated he would prioritize effective public transportation such as trains, railways and the renovation of airports.

On Issues Duterte is a known supporter of the Reproductive Health law, as he also encouraged family planning in Davao City. A report by Rappler stated that he gave cash incentives to those who availed of the city’s free vasectomy and tubal ligation services.

In addition, he is openly supportive of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) rights. The same report by Rappler stated that he criticized the Commission on Elections for delisting the Ang Ladlad Party List, a group which represents Filipino gays and lesbians. Duterte says his anti-discrimination ordinance has helped Davao become an LGBT-friendly place.

Moreover, Duterte said he would handle the country’s territorial dispute with China. “There is a bit of Chinese blood in almost all of us Filipinos and I believe the Chinese are a reasonable people,” he said in the same report.

Although he can be known for his radical means of maintaining peace, Rody believes in diplomacy. An example would be his ties with the NPA or New People’s Army.

He befriended Ka Parago, a rebel leader.

On the other hand, Duterte had previously said he supported the BBL but stated concerns over some of its provisions. He told media that federalism is a better solution to the conflict in Mindanao.

Lastly, if elected, he said he plans to prioritize the passage of the Freedom of Information bill.

Thoughts and figures Reports showed he scored big in three areas in the national Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey last December with 44% in the Visayas, 48% in Metro Manila and 50% in Mindanao.

Kris Abegail Guanzon, reigning Mutya ng Dabaw shared that we should vote for Duterte because change is what this country needs.

“He's the change that we have been waiting since we could remember. I'm not saying this in a way that he alone could bring change to our country but he has this ability to inspire the Filipino people to change,” she said.

His “Questionable” Character On a more recent note, Duterte is known for cursing once he is asked to answer questions or give a speech.

Although most people would argue that his “unprofessional” attitude has no place in Malacanang, others reason for him.

People in social media explain that they are tired of these “professional” politicians who do not stick to their speeches. They want a genuine leader who can make a difference.

Ultimately, what the Filipinos crave now are results. It has come to the point where they don’t pay mind to how progress was achieved as long as it is materialized.

Would Duterte be the answer?

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

7

POE STILL FIGHTING DESPITE DQ CHARGES RAM MANLATICAN & CHRISTIAN DALE ESPARTERO

AFTER A series of cases and criticisms hurled against her controversial citizenship and period of residency, Sen. Mary Grace Poe-Llamanzares, or simply “Grace Poe,” fights for her right to run for presidency in the upcoming 2016 National Election.

Poe was a foundling abandoned in 1968 at the doorstep of the Jaro Cathedral in Iloilo.

Apparently, Rizalito David, a nuisance candidate for presidency in this year’s election and a losing senatorial candidate last 2013 midterm elections, was the one who stirred Poe’s camp after he filed a case of disqualification against the senator.

“It bears reminding that when the Constitution says that a senator must be natural-born Filipino citizen, what it meant is, that the concerned is, without doubt, a jus sanguinis citizen or citizen at birth— that is, his or her biological father or biological mother is a citizen of the Philippines,” David pointed out.

On the other hand, one of the arguments of Poe’s camp insisted that “the citizenship and residency issues should be taken up separately.”

As Poe’s camp also indicated, Poe was already a resident of the Philippines in May 2005, longer than what she indicated in her Certificate of Candidacy.

She, together with her three kids, became dual Filipino-American citizens in 2006. She renounced her American citizenship on October 21, 2010 when she assumed the role of chairperson to the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) on the same year.

Meanwhile, after a few months of deliberation of the David vs. Poe case, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Second Division ruled to disqualify the senator in the 2016 presidential election for having false statements about her nationality and period of residency.

“I am disappointed in the decision, but this is not the end of the process. We will continue to fight for the rights of foundlings and the fundamental right of the people to choose their leaders,” Poe said.

“My critics will use any excuse to exclude me, much like they tried to do when FPJ [Fernando Poe Jr.] ran for president, and in the process disenfranchising the people as well,” Poe stressed, comparing to the similar case of her father who ran for presidency during the 2004 elections.

When asked about their views about Sen. Poe’s standing in the presidential race, Ateneo students and staff had negative opinions and arguments.

Ralph Bragado, a BS Architecture student, presented a brief criticism.

“The presidency is not a joke. We must have a well experienced or [a] tested president,” Bragado commented, contrasting the “inexperienced” Poe to the seriousness of the highest government office.

Meanwhile, a part-time faculty member from the Humanities division, who wants to remain anonymous, shared his stance on Poe’s candidacy for president.

“Philippine politics is constitutional, and Sen. Grace Poe must submit to its policies. Nobody is depriving her to run, but she must comply what is needed so that it is clear for the Filipino

people that she respects the Philippine Constitution,” the teacher said.

Declining ratings Despite being considered a front runner for the presidential bid, Grace Poe has nonetheless taken her share of shots from both the press and the public that have crippled both her reputation and her presidential campaign.

In mid-2015, the presidential aspirant went on a high note by topping a presidential preference poll conducted by Pulse Asia. Earning a preference rating of 30% among the respondents, she surpassed the poll’s previous front runner, Vice President Jejomar Binay, by eight percent.

“I accept with gratitude and humility the latest SWS survey results. I will continue to make the rounds all over the country, reach out to the people on the ground, and make known how the leadership we are offering would make the government genuinely work for them,” Poe expressed.

In December 2015 however, amidst disqualification cases, and the entry of Davao city Mayor Rodrigo Duterte in the presidential race, surveys issued by both Pulse Asia, and the Social Weather Stations, showed a clear decline in Poe’s ratings. Now with only 21%, a staggering 9% decrease, Grace Poe placed only third on Pulse Asia’s presidential poll last December.

In Mindanao, Poe’s ratings have dropped ten percent from 20%.

Getting herself back to the race On December 28, the Supreme Court,

as petitioned by Poe, issued two temporary restraining orders against the COMELEC’s decision to cancel her certificate of candidacy.

Previously, on the Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET), only one, Sen. Nancy Binay, voted for Poe’s disqualification as senator.

Meanwhile, The rest of the 5 senators which included Senators Pia Cayetano, Cynthia Villar, Paolo Benigno Aquino IV, and Vicente Sotto III, all voted in favor of Poe. "I think this will have both legal and political implications, and the most important...I think this will have a great implication on foundlings. This issue goes beyond Grace Poe. Ito ay makahulugan sa mga ampon na hindi alam ang kanilang pinanggalingan," Legarda said, recognizing Poe as a natural-born Filipino.

However, after the decision of the COMELEC to disqualify her from joining the presidential race, the Philippine Government’s top lawyer, Solicitor General Florin Hilbay, goes with Poe’s side.

Though still under public

scrutiny amidst political criticisms and issues, Poe expressed her gratitude towards those who support her.

“Malaking bagay po sa amin na ang mga mismong tagapagtanggol ng bansa sa larangan ng international law ay pumanig sa aming katuwiran.

“Buo po ang aming paniniwala na ang batas ay nandiyan para siguruhin ang pantay na karapatan ng bawat Pilipino, at nagtitiwala po kami na itataguyod ito ng Korte Suprema,” Poe said.

The Supreme Court has scheduled the oral argument for Poe’s petition on January 19.

8 2

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

CANDIDATE STORY ROXAS STILL TO PROVE SELF protection, economy, and education.

During his term in Congress, he passed laws such as the Public Employment Service act, which established public employment service offices in all municipalities.

He also pushed for local regional agencies to invest in multinational companies present in the country in order to generate more jobs for people.

ANNA SOPHIA TARHATA PIANG & FRANCESCA MAREE TESTA POSER. PRETENDER. These are just some of the names that presidential candidate Manuel ‘Mar’ Roxas II has been called ever since the beginning of the campaigning period in preparation for the 2016 General Elections to be held in May. During the duration of his entire campaign, Roxas has been attempting to present himself as “one with the masses,” in spite of his wealth and influence, by releasing images of himself doing various odd jobs that require manual labor.

For this, Roxas has been especially criticized in the social media where his images often receive negative feedback. For instance, Facebook user Jed Reston posted saying that he pities Roxas’s campaigning tactics.

“You have to resort to these types of propaganda just to advance your media exposure and project an image that is obviously not you. Everyone is already aware that you are running for President. Everybody knows you are born rich and you do not necessarily engage in manual labor in

your regular life.”

It seems that Roxas’s tactics and their effects have diluted his political capability and experience in the eyes of many people.

Yet, many citizens still believe that he can win the elections. Oscar Lagman Jr., whose opinion article of Roxas was published in Business World Online, said that Roxas should depend on his own platforms and bank on his past experience with the House of Representatives instead of using that of President Aquino’s.

“It is time Mar Roxas run as his own man. He should discard the yellow T-shirt with black trimmings and revert back to his old working wear, the white polo barong. It even enhances his image of Mr. Clean.”

So the question remains: is Roxas worthy of being president?

Political reformer and innovator From his experience as a member of the House of Representative from 1993-2000 for Capiz and as a senator, Roxas has campaigned for platforms regarding employment, healthcare, public

In his senatorial term, Roxas filed bills such as the Affordable Medicines Act, which lowers the prices of medicines. He also pushed tax exemption for minimum wage earners, as well as advocated for the antismuggling bill that played an important role to the Bureau of Customs. Furthermore he spearheaded the Freedom of Information Act and the Decriminalization of Libel act in the hopes that it would help in alleviating the plight of journalists.

What became notable of his political career was in the 2012 presidential elections when he decided to give his Presidential aspiration to then-senator Benigno Aquino III as to not waste Aquino’s high chances of winning the said electionz. It was said that he clearly showed “Delikadeza” in dealing with the issue which is for his loyal supporters an admirable trait for a politician to have.

This, despite his wealthy image, has still allowd Roxas to humble himself regardless of criticisms by the public.

Image problems, media hotseat Roxas’ experience primarily gained him favor with the masses, as seen when he was the initial front runner in the vicepresidential elections last May 2010 before he was overtaken by Jejomar Binay.

However, many people have decided that he is not fit for presidency due to his behavior and actions for the past few years.

Roxas has been associated with various controversies.

In an article by GMA news, according to the Commission on Audit (COA) report on the Priority Development Assistance Fund covering the period 2007 to 2009, then-senator Roxas allocated 5 million pesos of his pork funds to a questionable nongovernment organization.

Moreover, Roxas was also placed under further scrutiny for not answering questions regarding the distribution of aid and funds to the victims of the Super typhoon Yolanda.

In an article by Inquirer, when he was asked to comment on problems being encountered in the distribution of funds under the so-called Emergency Shelter Assistance (ESA), Roxas replied to a reporter of broadcast network ABSCBN: “Well, what agency is supposed to (know about the problems)?”

When the reporter replied that ESA was a Department of Social Welfare and Development program, Roxas raised his hands and said “What is my agency?”

With regard to more recent events, Roxas also gained more negative comments for posting photos of himself doing jobs requiring manual labor such as being a pedicab driver, a carrier, and a traffic officer among others.

Social media users have said that Roxas’s act of performing manual labor is a sign that he is incompetent. They quipped that people like him who came from the upper class cannot really function in top positions since he can’t even properly delegate the tasks to his people due to his “arrogance” and “lack of confidence to other people”.

Also, Roxas further gained scrutiny for claiming that Davao City is not safe, using statistics from the Philippine National Police and the Department of the Interior and Local Government.

The statistics make Davao city as the fourth Philippine city with the highest crime volume.

However, this claim was debunked by the Davao City Police Office (DCPO).

In a Facebook post, DCPO stated that out of the 18,119 crime volume of Davao City for 2014, only 6,548 (36%) is attributed to index crime, meaning crime against person and properties.

The DCPO said that the remaining 11,571 (64%) is attributed to non-index crimes which are policeinitiated operations that yielded positive results especially on anti-drugs and other special laws.

Roxas’s claim was further discredited when citizens brought to light the fact that Roxas himself awarded Davao City the 2015 Seal of Good Local Governance.

He further gained more negative media attention for having verbal fights with Davao City Mayor and presidential candidate Rodrigo Duterte. With regard to his reaction to Duterte’s claim that his Wharton degree is a myth, citizens have said that Roxas’s display of his temper is unbecoming of a president.

“Mar Roxas is hotheaded and cannot handle stress well,” Atty. Dandan Bantugan said in his opinion article about Roxas.

With the given facts and details, Mar Roxas has proven that he is aware of what the people need, however, he has also shown that there are aspects of his career, image and tactics that do not click with the public.

With all those things said, Roxas must prove that despite all his controversies, he deserves to be elected into the top post.

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

9

MIRIAM SANTIAGO: BOTH SERIOUS AND FUNNY JOSHUA ANDREI BON GILLES & JULIEN JAME APALE SANTIAGO HAS always been known for her strong attitude.

She always speaks her mind, and not even her co-senators are safe from her straightforward words.

“You students, there is no substitute to hard work. Kaya huwag kayong mangongopya and if you copy you will never succeed.

Tignan mo ang nangyari sa kanila noong college sila, nangopya. Ngayon, senador na, nangopya pa rin,” Miriam told the students while obviously criticizing Senator Tito Soto III’s (who was charged with plagiarism).

“Pinagpapaskil ninyo ang mga pagmumukha ninyo sa EDSA! Ang papangit nyo!”

Santiago commented on the excessive campaign posters and tarpaulins.

But, Miriam captured the public by being two opposite things: serious and funny.

She showed conflicting characteristics which spellbound the public.

Santiago is seen as a serious, rational, nononsense senator with whom no one wants to mess around with. And, if someone does mess around with her, that person surely will receive the wrath of the “IronLady”.

“Please don’t treat me as a mere observer. I am a judge in this proceeding! In any trial court…you should not speak, you should not take any behavior at all unless with the consent of the presiding judge. Don’t drown me out by screaming in this courtroom! Only I can scream here and my fellow judges,” Miriam asserted during one of the sessions of Reynato Corona’s trial.

“I am tired of hearing your voice,” she said to Atty. Lim in the same trial.

In 1965, Santiago graduated magna cum laude from the University of the Philippines-Visayas, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science which she finished for three and a half years only. After graduation, she proceeded to the University of the Philippines College of Law, where she became champion in numerous oratorical contests and debates. She even became the first female editor of the school’s student newspaper, The Philippine Collegian, thus breaking the 50-year old male dominance.

After this, Santiago continued to study. She went abroad and earned the graduate degrees of Master of Laws and Doctor of Juridical Science, from the University of Michigan, one of the top three law schools in the United States.

She finished both degrees in a period of only one and a half years, (one year for her master’s degree and her doctorate in only six months). She also finished the degree Master of Arts in Religious Studies (without a thesis), at the Maryhill School of Theology.

Santiago sought for more and never got tired, and now she has a record of postdoctoral studies from all over the world, including Oxford University, Cambridge University, Harvard University, University of California at Berkeley, Stanford University, and Academy of Public International Law at the Peace Palace (the seat of the International Court of Justice), at The Hague, Netherlands.

Santiago is bestknown and notable for having served in all three branches of the Philippine government- judicial, executive and legislative.

In 1988, she was named laureate of the Ramon

Magsaysay Award for government service (known as the Asian equivalent of the Nobel Prize), with a citation “for bold and moral leadership in cleaning up a corrupt-ridden government agency.”

She ran in the 1992 presidential elections but was defeated to Fidel Ramos, although there were speculations and Santiago even filed an electoral protest citing power outages as evidence; her protest was eventually dismissed on a technicality.

In the judicial branch, Santiago has been presiding judge of the Regional Trial Court at Quezon City. In the executive branch, she has been immigration commissioner; and a cabinet member as agrarian reform secretary. In the legislative branch, she has served the Philippine Senate for three terms.

Santiago has filed the highest number of bills and authored some of the most important laws such as the anti-dynasty bill, also an act institutionalizing an age-appropriate curriculum to prevent the abduction, exploitation, and sexual abuse of children, the antiepal bill, the freedom of information bill, and the magna carta for Philippine internet freedom.

Santiago also taught political science at the Trinity University of Asia.

She was law professor at the University of the Philippines, teaching evening classes for some ten years.

In 2012, she became the first Filipina and the first Asian from a developing country to be elected as judge of the International Criminal Court. She later resigned the post, citing chronic fatigue syndrome, which turned out to be lung cancer. And yet, during her initial battle with cancer,

she continued to work on the 2014 edition of all her books which covered topics such as law and other social sciences.

For years, this has been the image of Santiago: a cold, rational, and serious woman. It was during the Corona trial when the issue of her health had started to rise.

When seen side-by-side with the critics, “enemies”, and fights she had encountered when her blood pressure rocketed, it is easy to see that stress coupled with her strong personality could had been the cause.

She was not able to attend sessions because of her high blood pressure.

Possible comedian She had talked in many universities in the Philippines, and her speeches usually make headlines. However, the news usually do not highlight the actual talk, but the jokes she lashed in it.

To many, this had been unexpected. Miriam had always been seen as stoic and straightforward. Telling

jokes, and being just “fun,” seemed out of character.

She defied her own image. And, the violation of what people expected her to act just made her more charismatic, and likeable.

This was the start of Santiago mesmerizing many of the country’s youth. And, this arguably was the start of her presidential campaign (whether it was intended as such or not).

Taking this further, she published a book. Her writing (as seen in her book Stupid is Forever) still held that light humorous tone that contradicts his Iron Lady image.

10 3

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

FEATURES

BEHIND THE COUNTRY'S PARTY SYSTEM DYNAMICS GLEN BASILISCO

‘Weak’ party system

P

Political analyst Victor Manhit believes that such shift had weakened the Philippines’ party system.

OLITICAL PARTIES are organized groups of people that seek to gain elective positions.

They emerged during the American occupation and became key players in Philippine politics since then.

In an ideal sense, some of the political parties’ functions are to consolidate the political demands or the concerns of the people, disseminate information to voters, and recruit future political leaders. But in the Philippine setup, such activities seem to be unfulfilled. And with frequent party switching of politicians and unclear stand on issues and policies, many posit that political parties in the Philippines are reduced to mere objects used for personal gain.

Two-party to multi-party system Other than the shortlived political parties, the Nacionalista Party (NP), established in 1907, and the Liberal Party (LP), established in 1946, were the two dominant parties competing every election in the Philippines in its early years. When President Ferdinand Marcos declared Martial law in 1972, political parties were temporarily banned. And at the end of his regime, the party-system in the Philippines drastically transformed into a lively multi-party system. Parties like Puwersa ng Masang Pilipino (PMP), Laban ng Demokaratikong Pilipino (LDP), Aksyon Demokratiko (AD), and many others were formed. At present, there are more than ten existing political parties in the Philippines that participate during elections.

“It was stronger before Martial law because of the two-party system. You have well defined parties.

They may not be different ideologically, but there is a clear line between if you’re Nacionalista or a Liberal.

So you shift loyalty based on who can bring political successes,” Manhit said.

The fluttering of political butterflies in Philippine politics became one of the indicators of the weak nature of the present party system in the country. Political butterflies are politicians who move from one party to another depending on who can serve their interests.

Another indicator of the ‘weak’ nature of party system in the country is the party’s lack of clear positions in different policies.

According to veteran journalist Philip Lustre Jr., political parties are reduced to political vehicles for candidates.

“Politicians join political parties more for convenience than shared beliefs, and the parties hardly possess definitive ideologies and platforms, which are necessary to unify various leaders in the pursuit of certain political objectives,” Lustre said.

Attempts for reform In an attempt to fix the country’s party system, some legislators in the Congress filed a Political Party Development Act numerous times. The said bill would punish political turncoatism, or switching between parties, and would appropriate funds for political parties themselves.

By these, it is hoped that the political party system will be strengthened by ensuring

the stability of parties and by destroying the wings of political butterflies.

“What’s happening now is that party members don’t pay dues. There is no real consensus or internal voting on issues because everything’s dictated by one or two people only and worse, politicians switch party loyalties quickly depending on who’s in power,” said Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, President of the Centrist Democratic Party.

The Senate version of the bill, however, is still pending on the committee level.

The future of the bill is still uncertain.

Political parties in the university In Ateneo de Davao, political parties are embodied in the recognized socio-political clubs that participate during SAMAHAN general elections. Several sociopolitical clubs have already risen in the history of the university elections. Some of these are Ugnayan ng mga Aktibong Atenista (UGAT), Partido ng Nagkakaisang Tinig (TINIG), Boses ng Atenistang Totoo (BATO), Grupo ng Makabagong Atenista (GMA), PUKAW, Buklurang Atenista (BUKLAT), BAHAGHARI and the Pinag-isang Lakas ng mga Progresibong Atenista (PIGLASAPAT). Among these, only three remained to be active in the present – BUKLAT, BAHAGHARI, and PIGLASAPAT. PIGLASAPAT’s president, Jeos Earl Casilac, described their political party as a social democratic party that values the participation of students and cares for society as a whole. In recruiting future leaders, PIGLASAPAT is not into open application unlike in the past. Instead, they invite students who can be potential members based on their leadership background.

BAHAGHARI’s President, Kenneth Paul Recana, explained that the ideology of their party is summarized in their pantry mantra ‘meliora’, which means better. He also added that they adhere to the principles of authentic Christian humanism, active-nonviolence, social justice and integrity. While they invite students, they also accept applications in recruiting their members.

BUKLAT’s President, Ivy Jean Tupas, considered their party as national democratic. They believed that the issues in the university must not be isolated from national issues. In recruiting their members, Tupas said that BUKLAT is open to anyone who is interested in their beliefs and in their line of service.

PIGLASAPAT and BAHAGHARI asserted that they do not support party switching, and strongly condemns political butterflies. BUKLAT, however, considers party switching in case their members will change their ideas and beliefs in the long run.

Past controversies Some political parties in the university were marred with controversies. In 2011, one of the articles of Atenews exposed the PIGLASAPAT’s alleged “planned maneuvering of the CCO and GACP elections.” A Facebook conversion was screen captured exposing the details of their plan to disable a certain student from running in both organizations at the same time.

In 2014, a sceen captured photo went viral in social media on the alleged plan of the members of BAHAGHARI in order to reach necessary votes in order to ratify the drafted SAMAHAN Constitution despite the online criticisms

it received. It was further speculated that such ratification was hastened in order for the sitting President and the political party to leave a ‘legacy’.

Parties with programs With various political parties, each with their own candidates participating every election, choosing good parties and leaders to support becomes more and more difficult. Columnist Carmen Pedrosa believes that the programs and policies offered by political parties must be carefully considered.

“However dim it may seem, these parties stand for political ideas that could be evolved into party platforms.

Their programs must answer the needs and aspirations of the Filipino people,” Pedrosa said.

Many posit that political parties in the Philippines are reduced to mere objects used for personal gain.

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

11

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

FOR VICE PRESIDENT Top left to right: Alan Peter Cayetano, Francis Joseph Escudero, Gregorio Honasan II; Bottom left to right: Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., Maria Leonor Robredo, and Antonio Trillanes IV. Photos/ Rappler

Alan Peter Cayetano Nacionalista Party

Running Mate of Mary Grace Poe-Llamanzares

Running Mate of Rodrigo Duterte

Masters in Business Management, Asian Institute of Management (’81)

Highest educational attainment:

Most recent position held:

Highest educational attainment:

Masters in International and Comparative Law, Georgetown University (’95-’96)

1

Juris Doctor, 2nd Honours, Ateneo de Manila University School of Law

Most recent position held:

Most recent position held:

Senator (’09-’12,’12-’15)

Senate Majority Leader (’13’16)

Notable bills filed:

Freedom of Information Act

Tax Exemption for Minimum Wage Earners and Increased Tax Exemptions Act

Nat Strengthening the Literacy Coordinating Council

Anti-Enforced or Involuntary Disappearance Act

Act Requiring Mandatory Basic Immunisation Services Against Hepatitis-B for Infants

Anti-Torture Act

Controversies:

Allegedly paid supporters to cheer in filing of COC with Poe

Notable bills filed:

Blatant mistrust of MILF Attempted to stop election protest against wife by treating to stall poll agency’s budget

2

Francis Joseph Escudero Independent

Senator (’07-’10)

3

Gregorio Honasan II Independent

Running Mate of Jejomar Binay, Sr. Highest educational attainment:

Basic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region

Notable bills filed:

Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010

Anti-Squatting Law Repeal Act

The PAGASA Modernisation Act of 2014

An Act to Further Strengthen the Anti-Money Laundering Law

Controversies:

Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2009 Controversies: Attempted several coups d’etat and mutinies against Cory Aquino and Arroyo

Defence of Martial Law Involvement in the PDAF scam

5

Maria Leonor Robredo Liberal Party

Alleged political campaign in relief operations for Typhoon Lando victims

6

Antonio Trillanes IV Nacionalista Party

Highest educational attainment: Master’s Degree in Public Administration, Major in Public Policy and Program Management, University of the Philippines Diliman (’02-’05) Most recent position held:

Running Mate of Manuel Roxas II

Senator ('13-16)

Highest educational attainment:

New AFP Modernisation Act

Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. Nacionalista Party

Bachelor of Laws, University of Nueva Careers (’90)

Salary Standardisation Law

Most recent position held:

Gun Control Act

Running Mate of Miriam Defensor-Santiago

Third District of Camarines Sur Representative (’13-’16)

Controversies:

Highest educational attainment:

Notable bills filed:

Involvement in PDAF scam

Controversies: Expensive Balesin wedding

Notable bills filed:

4

Special Diploma in Social Studies, Oxford University (’75-’78)

National Food Security Bill of 2015 Anti-discrimination Bill of 2013

Most recent position held:

Freedom of Information Bill

Senator (’10-’16)

Controversies:

Notable bills filed:

Alleged misuse of funds Mutiny The information presented above were taken from material compiled by the Ateneo Debate Varsity.

12

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

HIGHLIGHTS

IRONMAN AND THE 'DUTERTARDS'

What's next for Davao's Ironman Rodrigo Duterte as he runs for president?

What more for many of his supporters who will go against all odds to protect his image? What causes them to go all-out to support him?

ANDREA ISABELLE MEJOS

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

A

S THE 2016 Philippine elections come near, cheers of each politician’s supporters go louder. Through the years, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte has sparked many controversies with his statements and radical laws.

For the same reasons, he has also gathered supporters, mostly from the city he has sown his legacy. Since the rumors and speculations of his presidency began, some of his most avid supporters have been dubbed as “Dutertards” by non-supporters because of their untamable rooting for the man. Davaoeños have first-hand experience about how the mayor manages his constituents, hence they head the #DU30 Movement more often than not.

Rodrigo “Digong” Duterte filed his COC (certificate of candidacy) for the 2016 presidential elections on December 8, 2015 after a lengthy time of speculation and debate, which began in 2011 when a group of supporters and Barangay Captains started a signature campaign to urge Duterte to run for president, who vehemently denied any intentions of running for president. The Duterte support groups grew rapidly in numbers shortly after.

After four years of saying no, Duterte finally conceded.

The Birth of the Term For the Dutertards, their avid requests was a contributing factor to Duterte’s final decision, but are disapproving of being called so. “I don’t like tard being associated to someone who supports Duterte. But if being a Dutertard means fighting for someone whom you believe can start a change, I would accept the label,” said Angelo Caballero, student.

The term Dutertard was coined by artist and tour guide Carlos Celdran on a controversial Facebook post saying, “...You Dutertards are delusional and lazy.

You want democracy handed to you on a silver

platter without realizing the work and sacrifice that needs to be done to make it sustainable...” Celdran also referred to Duterte’s supporters as “stupid or childish or both,” garnering angry reactions from supporters.

The label is not issue, however. What his supporters care for are his strong political standing, his achievable and concrete platforms, his future and ultimately, the country’s future.

The Man and His Accomplishments Rodrigo “Digong” Duterte is a Filipino lawyer and one of the Philippines’ longest standing mayors in a city, serving in Davao City for seven consecutive terms. Known for his strict disciplinarian methods, Duterte has garnered both admiration and anger.

Duterte is well known for his leadership in Davao City, which, under his term, has transformed from what has been dubbed as “killing fields” into one of the world’s recorded safest cities, mainly because of his Peace and Order Program.

He has also implemented radical laws such as the fireworks ban, which made Davao City one of the first cities to have zero death rate during the holiday celebrations, and the smoking ban which made Davao City one of the first smoke-free cities.

However, doubts and skepticism rain on Duterte, especially from those who are not from Davao City, because of his honesty on his relationships with women and cursing.

For Avon Sinajon, regional convener for NYC (National Youth Commission), she herself is not an avid supporter of Duterte, but regardless, she participated in the social media campaign for basic education for people to know federalism by Duterte, and shared her insights to her friends from other places in the country.

She supports Duterte

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

for his good leadership. “I cannot qualify myself as loyalist, but if he retains his good leadership, then I will continue to support him even if he doesn’t win [as president],” said Sinajon.

On Executing Criminals for the Common Good Duterte has also been implied to have links in vigilante groups responsible for summary executions.

One popularized group is the Davao Death Squad (DDS). In the local television show Gikan sa Masa Para sa Masa, Duterte admitted his link in the infamous group, which has been investigated on by a Human Rights Watch (HRW) Asia.

In their 2009 report on death squad killings titled “You Can Die Anytime,” HRW Asia cited that death squad killings of petty criminals and street children began in the mid-1990s during Duterte’s second term as Davao City Mayor.

Further, the report also cited that under Duterte’s leadership, crime rates in the city dropped to among the lowest in the country.

13

Duterte has his share of violations against the law, implicitly that is. But firsthand interviews from the citizens of the city he has carefully tenured over the years show that there is a soft and kind-hearted father behind the iron man that is surfacing in these election times. And he has their votes.

If being a Dutertard means fighting for someone whom you believe can start a change, I would accept the label,

Despite these claims, Duterte’s supporters did not falter.

Youth Pastor Gecelle Galenzoga says that she supports Duterte because he is like “a father who is protective of his children [regardless of the means].”

“I felt his care by the way he upholds the cause of his constituents,” said Galenzoga.

When asked about Duterte’s critics, she said that Duterte’s leadership needs to be experienced firsthand. “Only those who have a firsthand experience of Duterte’s leadership will stand by him until the end,” she explained.

Firm on his views of Duterte’s capabilities, Angelo Caballero remarked, “This will be the first time that I will vote and I want this to be remarkable, that by being part of the 2016 elections, I voted for change.”

Opposite: Rodrigo Duterte files his certificate of candidacy. Photo/ Shayla Yap

14 4

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

BIG THREE SCRUTINY HAVE WE REALLY ‘MOVED FURTHER’ WITH LEYSON? made various efforts in making sure that students can maximize the services offered to them. In fact, just recently, in line with Leyson’s promise to “research on transactions of availing student services to ensure speedy and reasonable procedures of availing such services,” SAMAHAN addressed the issue regarding the university parking facility’s expensive rates.

REIL BENEDICT OBINQUE OUR CURRENT SAMAHAN President is under pressure. A lot is, and has been, expected from him, for who would be very familiar with addressing the concerns of the Ateneo student body if not a student-leader who has been holding key positions in the SAMAHAN Central Board (SCB) for around two years now?

Former SAMAHAN Secretary General Michael Zachary Leyson has barely three months to achieve the platforms he sincerely promised before the start of his term as the SAMAHAN President.

Under his presidency, have we really moved further?

Leyson's Self-assessment SHORTENED TO FIT THE WORD LIMIT Being the President of the SAMAHAN Central Board, I say that we have been able to serve the Ateneo studentry with the assistance of our SAMAHAN Committees, Campus Clubs Organization (CCO), General Assembly of Class Presidents (GACP) and the

Comparing his promises during last year’s election to the activities, projects, and programs conducted by the SAMAHAN this school year, one could probably say ‘yes.’

Apart from organizing school activities like the college fiesta and the college days, what else has SAMAHAN done under Leyson’s leadership?

Leyson ran for presidency promising five things: to maximize student services, to amplify the voices of the students, to generate efficient systems, to improve external linkages, and to strengthen the Student-SAMAHAN relationship.

With regard to his first platform, SAMAHAN has respective Student Executive Councils (SECs).

As the SCB Officers are also legislators in the student government, we approved 11 resolutions, three (3) of which pertaining to school facilities and services ought to be maximized by students.

These were submitted to the administration and they are currently tackling solutions in its implementation.

Prior to the said issue, SAMAHAN already conducted a research and a survey on the use of the parking space. After the release of the memorandum regarding the said facility, SAMAHAN did not only hear the students’ opinions and suggestions through social media, but they also raised these concerns through a dialogue with the offices involved, including the University President, which resulted to the suspension of the collection of the parking fees.

Under the leadership of Leyson, SAMAHAN has also provided avenues in hearing the students’ concerns and suggestions. Aside from their Facebook page – the most accessible and convenient for most students – SAMAHAN has also put up help desks to assist students during enrollments, which has been very helpful for some.

“I appreciate the effort of SAMAHAN right now to help their fellow students especially the help desk This school year, the SCB, through the Director of External Affairs and Networking, is currently revitalizing the Supreme Student Government Confederation, an alliance of all Davao City student governments.

We also promote the culture of collaboration by partnering with different offices.

Transparency

during enrollments and the assistance they gave to people who wanted to register in the upcoming 2016 election,” Hannah, a third year Political Science student, said.

But one of the most evident issues that Leyson wasn’t able to resolve is breaking the student apathy.

Surely enough, despite that SAMAHAN has conducted various activities and forums, most students only attend activities that give them entertainment like the college fiestas.

“The student apathy didn’t lessen. It even worsened,” said Jane, an Education student.

Whether the problem lies on the students themselves or the dissemination of information regarding activities, SAMAHAN, under Leyson’s leadership, is still perceived responsible for not being able to break student apathy.

There are students who also expressed that, most of the time, they cannot ‘feel’ Leyson’s leadership compared to the past SAMAHAN president.

“Dili kaayo nako mafeel iyang (Leyson’s) leadership,” Kyle, a third year student, expressed. “Sa college fiesta lang nako sila ma-feel.”

How do these achievements and issues reflect Leyson’s leadership? As a SAMAHAN president, what kind of leader is Leyson? mechanisms were also taken into account. Through the initiative of our SAMAHAN Treasurer, our budget officer, the budget allocation of funds are being publicized every semester.

Given that the officers are only given 12 months to rearrange its systems and address different pressing student issues, there are still pending projects to be done, hoping that the new

Many of the people who have been working with Leyson expressed that he is a very organized, systematic, and bureaucratic leader.

“For me, okay kaayo siya as President, organized and systematic. Nagamit niya ug maayo iyang experiences as first year rep and as a Secgen,” Rexor, one of the students who work in SAMAHAN, explained.

But according to some, oftentimes, he becomes too meticulous that it slows down some processes.

“Very ‘detailed’ person man gud si Kuya Mike,” said Jane. “Ganahan ko kay gusto siya very organized ang tanan pero ginapabagal niya ang process.”

Surely, not everything that SAMAHAN has done is solely attributed to Leyson but, being the president, he plays a great role in all the decisions SAMAHAN makes, and it his duty to “ensure that programs and policies of SAMAHAN are faithfully executed.”

And as the SAMAHAN election approaches, students are again given the chance to select leaders who could continue the good things Leyson has done during his term and address his shortcomings, for not until we learn how to become responsible voters will we be able to truly ‘move further.’

administration would be able to take these into consideration.

There is a need to improve its internal affairs by concretizing mechanisms for gathering students’ pulse and evaluation of the performance of members involved within the student government and its corresponding programs and activities.

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

15

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

ASSESSMENT FROM POLITICAL PARTIES BAHAGHARI: LEYSON IS SUCCESFUL Leyson’s performance is highly satisfactory. As the SAMAHAN President, he should be the one to lead the Central Board and the entire student body to the proper direction for the school year. Above all that, the SAMAHAN President also bears many internal functions such as being part of studentfaculty councils, and other engagements. Despite the heavy burden, Leyson never really lost the quality of work expected from a SAMAHAN President. He was able to balance all engagements

needed for a SAMAHAN President with help from his executive secretaries and external affairs director.

As the mediator of every SAMAHAN agenda, he was able to lead the Central Board to sound and amicable-to-all decisions.

He always made sure that everyone’s opinion is well accounted for but always stresses the need to compromise to arrive to the best possible decision. He made sure that SAMAHAN was always in line on why it was made – to cater to student concerns but

keeping this interests in line with the University’s Vision and Mission. Furthermore, the four committees under him: the SAMAHAN Research & Development Committee, SAMAHAN Ecoteneo Student Unit, SAMAHAN Welfare and the newly instated SAMAHAN Systems Development Committee were able to function freely but with success.

He managed to lead the Samahan Central Board into creating a Vision for Samahan that had become the guiding principle of

all activities, engagements and advocacies this year.

Through proper visioning, the SCB was able to align their goals for the school year along with the different SECs, GACP and CCO. Through his initiative he was able to revitalize the Supreme Student Government Coalition - a network of all student councils in Davao - which strengthened Samahan's relationship with external partners. Moreover, in his term Leyson and the other officers of Samahan was able to perform its legislative

function through creating different resolutions which was geared to answer the different concerns of students.

The workload of a President is too heavy and what the 1982 SAMAHAN Constitution’s duties and responsibilities for the President is heavily outdated. However, Mike has been prepared beforehand to handle it. He has shown to be very adaptive to whatever issue SAMAHAN will encounter and this has contributed much to the success of SAMAHAN.

BUKLAT: GOOD BUT NOTHING SPECTACULAR Mike is a silent worker, and performs well even when the spotlight is not on him. His work ethic is commendable, and his passion for service truly shows. On his promised platform of Maximization of Student Services which interests us most, there

are no big leaps worth noticing. If there is, only minimal is achieved. But the continuation of currently existing SAMAHAN services is admirable.

As administrator of the SCB, Mike is very approachable and knows

how to listen. He maintains good communication lines with other members of the SAMAHAN. One thing that he might have been vulnerable to is overburdening himself to compensate for other people’s task left undone.

This has something to

do with the difficulty of motivating others to work as hard as Mike.

Strengthening studentsamahan relationship is one thing we hoped to be achieved, and in fairness, Mike did good in this category. On the personal

level, he relates easily with the students.

In general, Mike as stint as SAMAHAN President is nothing spectacular but is well slightly above average.

PIGLASAPAT: LEYSON NOT FOR STUDENTS SHORTENED TO FIT THE WORD LIMIT Mike Leyson rallied himself as the voice of the students, bringing the slogan “One Big Fight with MAGIS Mike.” When he took power, he successfully brought a fight, but against the students. Let us go through his platforms.

M – Maximize Student Services. What services did we receive? There are the consultations and free printing during enrolment, which were through the initiatives of the SAMAHAN Secretary General. But these services did not come from his office.

A – Amplify Voices of

Students. He did amplify voices, but most of the time of the administration. The issues always come from the administration before the Student Government reacts.

The issues on the strict implementation of wearing the Ateneo pin or the pricing of the parking building were at least well taken into account. But the student government only came in after the administration reimposed the policies.

we really develop a system where we can lobby our grievance and concerns to SAMAHAN? We recognize the Help Desk made by our SAMAHAN Secretary-General, but this is ephemeral. The Viewfinder happens at the end of the year, and it is only the summary of all our concerns. We need an encompassing and longlasting systems in lobbying our concerns.

G – Generate Efficient Systems. The call for a genuine Student Concerns Committee was only made through the prefiguration of SAMAHAN Help Desk of the Office of the SAMAHAN Secretary-General. Did

I – Intensify External Linkages. In order to intensify external linkages, one must have a strong base of alliances within the university. He led the event organization of the Buklod Atenista. However, the

long-range planning or any meetings of the SAMAHAN Central Board are unavailable for the students.

We only get memorandum and resolutions. Can we step in the meeting and just represent ourselves as a mere Atenean, no affiliations or whatsoever?

Unfortunately, not.

S – Strengthen StudentSAMAHAN Relationship.

Leyson has been one of the instigators of rifting a Student-SAMAHAN Relationship. He, together with other student leaders, continues to uphold absolutism. He is one of the student leaders who oppose plurality in the student government by blocking

off activists in the student government. Left and center-left movements in the SAMAHAN Central Board are not that encouraged.

Leyson has some achievement to recognize.

However, in his term, it can be seen that a genuine collegiate student government is not that felt.

It can be felt that a culture of bigotry is developing in the student government.

Political participation of our students is low, and an our SAMAHAN Central Board is being exclusive. It is time that we correct this. We do not deserve people who are not politically conscious in our student government.

16 4

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

BIG THREE SCRUTINY IS THE BOAT SINKING FOR ABRINA? etcetera. After sharing their concerns, the students are required to input their name (optional), year and section, cluster, and contact number or email address. The SAMAHAN has claimed that they reply as soon as possible, but a couple students have reported that after submitting their forms, they haven’t received replies for as long as a month.

MIKEL STEVEN B. LUY INDEPENDENT CANDIDATE Amara Abrina was voted unanimously by the students as SAMAHAN secretary general last January 2015 over Abbie Cabig of the BAHAGHARI political party. During her campaign, she bared her heavy priorities-communication-trust platforms which included the #ProblemaMoProblemaNgLahat student assistant booth, the promise that minutes of SAMAHAN meetings will be made known to the public within 48 hours, and the student concern call center, among others.

Aside from being the current Secretary General, Amara has also declared that she will be running for SAMAHAN president under the PIGLASAPAT political party come the next elections.

Throughout the first half of Amara’s term as Secretary General, there are parts of her platforms that have been accomplished, there are parts that are slowly being accomplished over time, and there are those that have not been realized yet.

One such part that has been achieved, albeit in a different manner, is her #ProblemaMoProb-

lemaNgLahat student assistant booth platform was originally meant to be a once-a-month booth in every division to receive student concerns, problems, and requests. But due to the increasing number of demands, the SAMAHAN has partnered with the General Assembly of Class Presidents (GACP) and has produced a student concerns form instead. The forms, which can be obtained from the SAMAHAN office, is where the students will be putting their concerns instead.

Her student concern call center platform also fell into a compromise, as it was originally designed to be a permanent open communications booth for the secretary general, but the Physical Plant Office (PPO) would not allow it because, according to them, putting a permanent booth outside of the already existing SAMAHAN office would be against the order of things in the university. Instead, the SAMAHAN has opened the online student concerns desk which can be accessed at http://www.tinyurl.com/ samahanhelp. The online form concerns are categorized into 6 categories– academics, facilities, welfare, suggestions, comments, and

It’s nice that the students have a choice when it comes to raising their concerns. But at the same time, filling up a form can never be a substitute for first-hand communication with the officers themselves, which was what was promised in the first place. Before finalizing her platforms, Amara should have seen to it first that it was in accordance with all the organizations and offices in the university.

The promise of publicizing the minutes of SAMAHAN meetings within 48 hours, is another concern. The SAMAHAN has explained that the process of approving meeting minutes take until the time of the next meeting, so 48 hours will never be enough. Instead, Amara releases summaries of their meetings right after, and follows-up the full minutes when the next meeting takes place. It’s good to see that she is finding other ways in dealing with the situation, but then again she should have seen it coming in the first place before finalizing her platforms that 48 hours would not be enough.

On the other hand, her trust platform which promised that the students would see and feel that the SAMAHAN is not a stagnant office, has been one of her notably successful platforms. The social media accounts of the SAMAHAN for example are very interactive– they talk, Tweet, and laugh with the students. Being the secretary general, Amara is also the one in-charge of the SAMA-

HAN communications team and so far, they have worked hard enough in keeping the students up-to-date with information like school fiesta schedules, Palarong Atenista scores, event timelines, and other related things.

Moreover, there have also been reports of internal friction between the existing SAMAHAN central board members. Amara has been described as somewhat distant from other officers when it comes to non-SAMAHAN related things.

But since the SAMAHAN is a combination of students from different political parties, it is understandable that they have their own share of conflicts. Perhaps the second half of their terms is the time they need to gel together and become a more cohesive unit.

Despite this, Amara and the other SAMAHAN officers have soldiered on with their duties as servants for the students. Conflict or not, the SAMAHAN Central Board have and is still having their own share of accomplishments—improved student relations, most notably.

To sum it all up, Amara has not been the perfect Secretary General, but she hasn’t been a disappointment either. Amara should focus more on the shaky parts of her platforms and work hard to achieve them in hopes that it can bolster her upcoming presidential bid.

She should also make peace with whoever she has issues with in the SAMAHAN central board because if in case she wins the elections next year, there is a high chance that she will be seeing familiar faces around the office.

As of the midpoint of Amara’s term, the SAMAHAN is generally in good shape.

However, if the officers work better together and get their acts straight, it has the potential to become great.

Amara's Selfassessment The main goal why I ran is to guarantee that the students can raise their concerns by giving them adequate avenues. During my tenure, the Office of the SAMAHAN Secretary General and GACP cooperated to make this possible through a more student friendly concerns form readily available online. Also this year, we were able to expand our SAMAHAN enrollment help desk.

One of the biggest challenge I encountered during my term as a Samahan Sec Gen is the proper information dissemination to the students. That is why I recommend the establishment of the SAMAHAN TV for a better information dissemination drive.

We may not please everyone but I am certain that the office of the sec gen has reach out in listening to the concerns of the students through the student concerns form that can also be found online as initiated by GACP and the office of SAMAHAN Sec Gen.

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

ASSESSMENT FROM POLITICAL PARTIES BAHAGHARI: COMMITTEES GOT BETTER Abrina’s performance is satisfactory. The highlight of her administration was the empowerment of all committees under her – the SAMAHAN Communications Team, the SAMAHAN Productions Team and the SAMAHAN Creative

Team. The SAMAHAN Communications through its head Taj Angeles was able to satisfactorily meet all its required tasks and even tried new methods of reaching out to the students.

The SAMAHAN Productions Team was

able to bring the best out of all the SAMAHAN events despite using new venues for these events.

They have successfully made every SAMAHAN event a success. The SAMAHAN Creative Team never failed to deliver their already-known amazing

promotional materials that always accompanies SAMAHAN events. Truly, the committees was empowered this school year.

BUKLAT: ABRINA SUBVERTED IN SYSTEM On the crossfire of several issues, Amara’s competence was seriously put into question for a huge bulk of her service in the SAMAHAN. As we see it, her critical task as Secretary-General has been compromised to a great extent. Political and personal contradictions alike present in SAMAHAN, has taken its toll upon

Abrina and we believe she could risen above these circumstances to do a better job.

These scenarios were even worsened by Amara’s approach of trying to isolate herself with the people in SAMAHAN. Her working relationship with the SCB people has considerable problems that could have

been made better had Amara confronted it with them. But friendships rising beyond the political sphere are always held special by her.

Consequently, her mandate from the students of bringing a Bagong Samahan has dissipated along with her being subverted in the system.

This is a grave debt to the

students which Amara tries to redeem herself next year.

We nevertheless believe in Amara’s noble desire to be of service to the students, but holding the top position of the SAMAHAN is a risk too great that the students may not take.

PIGLASAPAT: ABRINA IS SUCCESSFUL SHORTENED TO FIT THE WORD LIMIT Amara Abrina ran under the #BagongSAMAHAN agenda last 2015. The agenda was made to revamp the SAMAHAN Office of the Secretary General in terms of providing service to the Ateneo studentry. She wanted a Secretary-General that is genuinely for the students. Abrina’s lead platform included opening the SAMAHAN Central Board for the gathering and addressing of student concerns.

Abrina recognized the fact that it is an imperative for a SAMAHAN Officer to truly serve the interest of the students, no matter how big or small this may

be. Her platform paved the way for an expanded SAMAHAN Help Desk this year. Abrina was able to expand the SAMAHAN Help Desk by publicizing its purpose, extending its reach, and maintaining tis good visibility. She centralized the lobbying of concerns during enrolment and she fortified the response desk per division.

gathering of all public information form the 9 Student Executive Councils in order to create a centralized Information Dissemination and Coordinating Council. By doing so, she strengthened information dissemination from the Samahan Central Board to the Student Executive Councils, and vice versa.

Abrina also enforced document archiving protocols. With the partnership with the General Assembly of Class President (GACP), they introduced an efficient system of gathering concerns through forms and SMS.

Abrina’s greatest achievement is opening SAMAHAN to the bullied, oppressed and unheard.

She opened the SAMAHAN Central Board to hearing the student concerns. She transcended her functions and she became a vanguard of students’ rights, which is one mark of a politically

Abrina centralized the

conscious leader. Abrina embodies the ability to speak for the students.

She believes in an open, responsive and inclusive SAMAHAN that genuinely serves the rights of the students. She believes in a student-centered and advocacy-driven student council that is driven not only for the good of the student, but also for the Society.

(The following section was redacted by the Atenews editorial board because PIGLASAPAT digressed from the assessment.)

17

18 4

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

BIG THREE SCRUTINY GALICIA DELIVERED BUT NOT FULLY Support, Strengthening and Empowerment of Treasurer’s council, and Transparency.

On Financial Education, Galicia promised that there would be seminars and lectures on basic financial education for all First Year Development Program (FYDP) classes and all National Service Training Program (NSTP) students.

However, there has yet to be any organized activity regarding teaching basic financial education.

Arthur Lee, a second-year Business and Management student, said there were no lectures about financial management in their NSTP classes last semester.

ABBY GIMENO AND ANNA SOPHIA TARHATA PIANG FROM TOPPING the 2013 First Year Representative elections with over 1000 votes to gaining victory in the 2015 SAMAHAN General Elections for the position of treasurer, Melzar “Miles” Galicia, Jr., has turned many heads and raised many expectations as a student leader.

Galicia gave many promising platforms during his campaigning days. However, a great number of students have claimed that they have yet to feel and see Galicia carry out his promises.

Galicia first entered the school’s political arena in Galicia's Self-assessment Greetings Ateneans!

I’m really thankful for giving me the opportunity to serve you as Samahan Treasurer for this school year. Indeed my time in Samahan has been a learning experience. As treasurer I directed my platform on transparency and financial literacy. On the aspect of transparency,

2012 when he ran for the then-functioning position of First Year Representative along with Khryzza Pinzon running as his co-representative.

Galicia and Pinzon defeated their six other opponents in a dual landslide victory with both of them gaining over 1000 votes each.

Galicia gained popularity during his term as First Year Representative. This popularity carried on until his bid for treasurer in the 2015 SAMAHAN General Elections.

While still campaigning, Galicia’s platform was FAST, which stood for Financial Education, Advocacies

this school year we have successfully conducted budget transparency seminars where the different division representatives and treasurers were given the opportunity to present their financial reports in front of interested students.

Also, we have publicized online and through tarpaulins the budget allocation of Samahan for both semester. Personally, I am satisfied with the

Ethel Senato, a first-year Accountancy student also commented that his FYDP class never had any talks about financial education.

Regarding Advocacies Support, Galicia said that this aimed to create an office in the SAMAHAN Central Board for student concerns about fund raising and budget sourcing According to Galicia, he initiated the ongoing creation of a list of sponsorships that will be soon available for public use.

On Strengthening and Empowerment of Treasurer’s council, Galicia aimed to this through better screening of the council members and also by sending them to seminars and workshops related to financing.

A training seminar for

level of transparency that we have now in Samahan.

On the contrary, my platform towards financial literacy has not been fully concretized. The addition of basic financial education in the curriculum of NSTP and FYDP was not implemented as there were already schedules of activities prepared for such subjects even before our proposal.

In addition, in our term, we have fully utilized the

the Treasurer’s council was held in the university. The seminar included lectures on preparing liquidations in line with the school policies set by the finance office and about transparency and integrity. Galicia was in charge of the said seminar.

Apart from this, he also said that he has planned other budget seminars and workshops on financing.

Lastly, on Transparency, Galicia planned to achieve this through frequent updates of liquidation reports and posting of cash disbursements and allocation both online and through visual materials around the campus.

While there were no visual materials or publication infographics visible around campus, an update about the budget allocation for the first and second semester of the school year was posted on the SAMAHAN Facebook page.

There have been rumors about only wanting fameand popularity as Galicia’s motive for running for the position of SAMAHAN treasurer and that he does not take the responsiblities of the position seriously.

In addition, many claimed that he had become vain and arrogant about his position.

Furthermore, many have said that his actions as treasurer were not really felt by the students and that Galicia did not make any improvements during his term.

to be anonymous said that Galicia was only showing off, “Pa gwapo raman na siya sa Samahan pero atleast murag mao man ata lang iyahang purpose maong nadaog siya,” However, there are also some students who think that Galicia has given a good performance regarding his role as SAMAHAN treasurer.

Campus Clubs Organization Internal Vice-president Kenneth Recaña is one of these students.

“I think Miles’ biggest achievement above everything else is the establishment of the Sponsorship and Support (SAS) Committee. Miles, together with SAS, Commission on Audit, Task Force really did their job to ensure the success of SAMAHAN events,” he said.

Based on the information given, Galicia has not yet completed his list of promised proposals and that his presence and visibility as a SAMAHAN officer has been questioned by many students.

However, Galicia has been able to deliver some crucial parts of his platform to certain extents and has earned the commendation of some of his fellow student leaders regarding his performance.

So with less than three months left in his term, can Galicia still fully deliver and meet expectations?

A student who wished potential of having sponsors as this year we have established a Sponsorship and Support Committee and not only an ad hoc.

The said committee is also in-charge of the creation of a sponsorship list which will be available soon for the use of every Atenean. Generally, I can say that during our term we have achieved majority of our goals but of course there are things which we could have done

better. Given the privilege of hindsight bias, I could have accomplished all our platforms if only we have planned the specifics and submitted concept papers perhaps a month earlier. As to the approval of the public, personally I do not really know. The only method of feedback for my function is the upcoming Viewfinder event. Thank you and have a good day! AMDG!

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

19

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

ASSESSMENT FROM POLITICAL PARTIES BAHAGHARI: GALICIA SLOWLY IMPROVED Galicia’s performance is satisfactory. The Treasurer’s main job is to secure appropriate funding for every SAMAHAN event and throughout the year, there has been proper SAMAHAN fund allocation to the events. Although at the start, especially during the College Fiesta where there were misunderstanding between committees and Galicia, it was solved and it did not entirely affect the quality of

the event.

Furthermore, he was able to set up the Sponsorships and Support Committee that proved to very helpful to the events of the SAMAHAN Central Board. Overall, Galicia’s work quality can be likened to an upward slowing curve – constantly improving throughout the year. His financial decisions and justifications was a big part of SAMAHAN’s success for the school year.

In addition, Galicia was able to deliver his platform of transparency through organizing Budget Transparency Seminars in which Student Executive Councils were able to present their semestral budget liquidation report to their constituents. This provided insight as to where the Division funds where going and allowed the students to ask where their money was going. He also

made needed changes in the Samahan Fiscal Manual and added provisions that would allow for a more efficient fiscal system.

At first, Galicia was still familiarizing with his new post and new challenges ahead of him. However, ever since the SAMAHAN Central Board reviewed the roles of everyone as stipulated in the 1982 SAMAHAN Constitution, he slowly became better. Aside

from the constitutional stipulations, customary job descriptions of the Treasurer such as inventory officer, etc. was handled well by Miles and his different committees. Miles was also responsive and was a constant part of discourse when the SAMAHAN Central Board talks about social issues.

BUKLAT: GALICIA SETTLED FOR LESS Miles Galicia has all the necessary technical skills to be an effective Treasurer.

However, performing customary accounting and custodial functions is settling for less. Not deciding to run again, may say something about his predisposition on student leadership.

Miles maintains a good reputation with his colleagues, thus garnering himself the respect he deserves. However, at times he may have issues of taking a share is the workloads in a collective plan.

unpredictability makes Miles public relations unstable.

The unshortened assessments of Mike Leyson, SAMAHAN President, and Miles Galicia, SAMAHAN Treasurer, as well as the assessments of BAHAGHARI, BUKLAT, and PIGLASAPAT on Leyson, Galicia, and Amara Abrina, SAMAHAN Secretary-General, are viewable online at atenews.ph.

His relationship with the students seems to be just right, but his

PIGLASAPAT: PLATFORMS WERE FULFILLED Last year, we’ve heard each and every candidate as they campaign. Their track records and platforms were presented to the student body. The ones who were elected are our current SAMAHAN Central Board (SCB) officers. As another year pass by, we may question, “Have the chosen ones adhered to their platforms and principles?”

Here is an overview of the current SCB Treasurer’s feats for this school year.

SAMAHAN’s SAS is a new committee under the Office of the Treasurer.

Before the election of

Galicia, the SAS was just an ad hoc committee which is in charge of the sponsorship for the major programs in school. This school year, SAS Committee headed by Alvin Reyes, a 5th year BS Accountancy student, had performed their task effectively guided

by Galicia’s platforms.

During the Ateneo Fiesta, 17 sponsors were garnered by the committee. Gift certificates and products from the sponsors were given as prizes for games in between breaks in major and minor programs. For the Palarong Atenista, several

sponsors also participated.

The 31st Buklod Atenista Annual Leader’s Conference was also included in the programs that benefitted from SAS Committee’s efforts. It was also included in the Treasurer’s platform that the committee is accessible to organizations to help in their fundraising.

NSTP has a fundraising this year. They had sought help from SAS and they were gladly accommodated.

Furthermore, a list which contains list of sponsors and their advocacies where organizations can contact partners for different events

is also being developed under the Office of the Treasurer with the help of SAS Committee.

The students were given the opportunity to ask how the budget was allocated.

Commission on Audit personnel and Student Executive Council (SEC) also convened with students from the 9 different divisions to present budget proposals and liquidation reports of their respective divisions.

Moreover, the budget for each semester and how it was allocated was printed into tarpaulins and were placed in strategic points in

the university. Tarpaulins can be found at the entrance of the Roxas and Jacinto gates, and in the Thibault grounds near the elevator.

This was to ensure that every student knows where the 80 pesos of the miscellaneous fees go. The fiscal manual, a manual which contains how the budget of every committee should be treated at the end of the semester, was also strengthened.

Despite these achievements and fulfilment of platforms, Galicia didn’t run for any position due to personal reasons.

20 5

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

THE CANDIDATES FOR PRESIDENT AMARA ABRINA/PIGLASAPAT

1. Why are you running for Presidency?

Congress”

We ran because of YOU, ATENEANS. Along with our PIGLASAPAT Leaders, we are committed to be the best representatives of every Atenean to the Samahan Central Board (SCB). The most important issues and concerns that needs to be addressed are those that come from you.

We commit to ensure that these are heard and given importance. Marami pa tayong puwedeng gawin.

Mag SAMAHAN TAYO at ipagpatuloy an gating nasimulan. Ang pakikipaglaban para sa student council na tunay na nararamdaman at malalapitan.

Through the years, Samahan Central Board has achieved leaps by raising countless Board resolutions to voice out our stand and opinion on certain issues and school matters.

T-TRANSPARENCY, ACCOUNTABILITY & GOOD GOVERNANCE Without these, a government body cannot successfully function.

For the upcoming school year, we shall ensure the continuity of upholding these values in the office.

We shall see to it that from the top positions down to the very last must be visibly active. Check-listing for check and balance is to be conducted regularly.

A-ATENEANS FOR ALL “AdDU Students’

Being ‘Ateneans for All’ means to be equally involved and mindful of pressing matters both in-campus and out. “Men and Women for Others” is more than just minding each other’s social life but also taking a stand on social issues.

By holding AdDU STUDENTS’ CONGRESS, we take these issues to the students themselves and hear from them – come up with a resolution to be forwarded to higher office.

Y-YES TO FUN-FILLED AND WORTH-WHILE ACTIVITIES

of the work field. By inviting several companies to directly speak to the students of the need and background of the jobs, we aim to make the students realize their field of choice, know their options and chances, and to prepare their minds (and requirements).

O-OFFICE OF THE STUDENTS AND FOR THE STUDENT “Samahan Poll” By having a Samahan Poll, every single student will know that his or her opinion matters before the Board makes a decision. Involve students in decision-making by giving them an avenue to do so. With the help of social media, we can conduct polls for concerns including but not limited to pre-planning of events.

“#CEO - Career Employment Opportunities” By conducting #CEO, we bring the students to awareness in as early as 2nd year of the demands

JOHN CHIN/BAHAGHARI procedures and protocols, not just for addressing extra-curricular but also co-curricular issues and student concerns.

COLLABORATIVE GROWTH

COMMUNITY BUILDING To unite SAMAHAN not just as a student government, but as a community, it shall be essential to build lasting relationships and work closely as an organization.

Lasting relationships through a more empowered student representation.

Working closely through standardized operating

We have already established a culture of collaboration within SAMAHAN, let us move further towards a more intensified collaboration through the different Student Executive Councils (SECs).

Knowing that the SECs are closer to the students, we shall empower the different SECs. Through conducting activities that shall empower and strengthen the skills of the studentry under each division.

COMMUNICATE & CONNECT Communicating not just

to acquire information and concerns from the students, but to respond accordingly through appropriate and effective channels with the help of the different units in the university. Together with Cifra’s Student Concerns App, the response to these issues shall be accommodated efficiently.

Connecting as one SAMAHAN making you feel that you are part of a more inclusive and proactive student community. This shall be coursed through promoting timely and issue-based discourse in collaboration with external organizations.

All these are essential to create change, not just in the pressing issues of the now, but in our immediate community and transcend towards the peripheries.

With activities and advocacies that shall work handin-hand into realizing the

2. What improvements do you plan on doing?

Our agenda in PIGLASAPAT is rooted in the idea of TAYO – a government for and with Ateneans.

Thus, extending to the society (Para sa Ateneo, Para sa Lipunan). We want a samahan that upholds Transparency, Accounta-

1. Why are you running for Presidency?

I ran because I know I am capable to give more. I may not appear as powerful for some, but I know I have the vision to fuel my desire to run.

Closing the gaps from indifference.

2. What improvements do you plan on doing?

bility and Good Governance; samahan that is socially, politically conscious & sensitive to the needs of the society.

3. What do you think of the current SAMAHAN admin?

This year’s SCB has been more receptive & responsive to the needs of the students. As the incumbent Sec-Gen, we have established a clearer mechanism addressing student concerns. We have been there for the oppressed and the unheard.

The incumbent Treasurer, a fellow PIGLASAPAT leader, has shown full TRANSPARENCY on how the SAMAHAN funds are utilized which proves that it is possible if there’s political will.

However, improvement should be –an SCB that is visible, socially & politically aware to the problems of the society, and open to massive consultation on matters pertaining to tuition fee and other increases of fees.

Central Board’s vision but also each SEC’s, establishing protocols both for co-curricular and extra-curricular concerns and externalizing the students’ efforts for a better change in Ateneo.

3. What do you think of the current SAMAHAN admin?

Leaders that are filled with potentials, but divided with difference in interests or priorities.

Part of my goals would be integrating SAMAHAN Committees that will support not just the vision of AdDU Sui Generis Leadership. Leadership that is not all about for one’s greater glory but for the common good. Because you, SAMAHAN, deserve someone who shall move further, not just by bridging our fellow Ateneans, but someone who will go beyond.

And I, John Chin, volunteer for an Authentic Conquest for Excellence and Meliora. AMDG!

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

IVY JEAN "IBYANG" TUPAS/BUKLAT ang SAMAHAN ang siyang namumukod-tangi na siyang dapat tagapaglingkod nito kasama at para sa mga estudyante.

B-BUILD SOLID AND PROSTUDENT ALLIANCES WITH THE ADDU COMMUNITY

L- LIVE, LEAD and LIBERATE THE SAMAHAN! Bukod sa taunang tinatampok ng SAMAHAN, mangunguna po tayo sa pagpapalawak ng ating kakayanan sa pamamahala, pagseserbisyo at panibagong hubog ng SAMAHAN! A-ADVANCE GENUINE STUDENT'S RIGHT AND WELFARE Karapatan ng mga Atenista ang magpahayag at manindigan para sa kaniyang demokratikong interes at kagalingan. At

Paigtingin ang ugnayan nating mga estudyante tungo sa iba’t ibang sector ng unibersidad. Kasama ang mga guro, empleyado at administrasyon bilang katuwang sa paghahatid ng mas epektibong paglilingkod ng SAMAHAN! A-ADVOCATE AND CHAMPION CAMPAIGNS FOR NATIONALIST CHANGE Makabayan. Sa esensyang nakikiisa ang mga atenista sa pagtatampok ng mga adbokasiya at kampanyang magdudulot ng pambansang pagbabago sa loob at labs ng paaralan. Manguna sa

mga diskursong panlipunan dahil tayo ang boses ng PAGASA! N-NURTURE THE IGNATIAN VALUES OF MAGIS AND CURA PERSONALIS Aktibong isagawa ang pagiging “men and women to others” ! Mangahas na payabungin hindi lng ang sariling kapasadidad sa loob ng insttusyong ito kundi maging sa mga komunidad na mas higit tayong kinakailngan.

PARA SA ISANG TUNAY! PALABAN! AT MAKABAYANG SAMAHAN! LINGKOD NG MASA! BUKLURANG ATENISTA!

21

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

1. Why are you running for Presidency?

I am taking this opportunity to push for a Tunay na SAMAHAN. One that will genuinely be pro-students, and is brave enough to stand for and with them in the fight for student’ rights and welfare. A council that fosters collaborative leadership in performing tasks and responsibilities in serving the students.

Abrand of service that goes beyond the walls of the university to understands and struggle with the poor and marginalized in the society. I find my strength with the rest of students, and the oppressed Filipino people who share our vision of building a Tunay na Samahan.

2. What improvements do you plan on doing?

We recognize that the current system has commendable programs and activities that is worth continuing like the Ateneo

College Fiesta, Palarong Atenista and etc. which we plan to revitalize. We also would dare to call for a tuition freeze at the ladderized TFI, reassess our other miscellaneous fees, crafting of a Magna Carta for Students Rights, creation of new SAMAHAN for People’s Campaign and Community Extension, maximizing DL and Varsity incentives and the establishment of solid alliance with the stakeholders of the school.

3. What do you think of the current SAMAHAN admin?

The current administration’s only credible judge is the students themselves.

BUKLAT’s applauds the successes of the current SAMAHAN. I wish to make better our service for the students given the chance to realize our vision of building the Tunay na SAMAHAN.

FOR SECRETARY GENERAL ALYENNA "YEN" KATE CIFRA/BAHAGHARI Sino po ba si Yen at ano po ba ang maibibigay niya for next school year’s SAMAHAN Central Board!

Y.E.N. YEN! Yield Efficiency in the Office of the Secretary General •The restructuring of SAMAHAN Communications Committee into two main groups: Documentation and Publicity

•Endorsement of SAMAHAN Gazette as the official SAMAHAN newsletter to be published in SAMAHAN Website •SAMAHAN News Bits will be the official summary of the memorandums, SAMAHAN minutes, and the like.

Enforce Student Concerns Mechanism •Implementation of the

“Student Concerns App” •Centralized App for the whole SAMAHAN Central Board •Highlights not only in gathering these concerns, but also it is through in updating and acting through these concerns Nourish Ateneo Partnered Communities Through AdDU Sui Generis Leadership

•Branch out and Re-Echo AdDU Sui Generis Leadership to Ateneo Partnered Communities who have low access to these kinds of training •It will be called: “Pay it Forward” •Open for all who are interested in this kind of activity

The given information is taken in verbatim from the forms personally submitted by the candidates.

Platforms exceeding the word limit are cut.

22 5

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

THE CANDIDATES JOHN RAY "JANNA" MAGBANUA/INDEPENDENT Para sa Sec-gen nga Pirmni ABTIK, kay Janna Magbanua ang atong I-CLICK. A - Activate the use of SAMAHAN Website to cater student concerns, suggestions, and questions and Activate the culture of collaboration between all the leaders of each Sec, Committees, GA and CCO in lobbying student concerns.

B - Broad and wide discussion of social issues in our society so that Ateneans will participate and be an informed citizen of our country. Also intensify more the gatherings of student concern on issues inside the campus.

T - Transparency and Accountability of all SAMAHAN officers and commit-

tees. Making all the SCB officers accountable to their constituents. Provide proper archiving for all SAMAHAN documents making it available for all Ateneo students.

social media K - Kind and approachable way of integrating all the committee heads and members of SAMAHAN.

I - massive Information dissemination of all SAMAHAN Activities to encourage students to participate.

Through text message samahan website, fb, all means of

DEXTER JAKE VILLAROSA/PIGLASAPAT DELIVERY - Make the SAMAHAN more accessible to Ateneans and bring it to the grassroots level by making the office open to the student body: opening and providing basic services such as printing,etc. and establish an improved SAMAHAN Hotline.

We aspire for a SAMAHAN that actively listens to all students, not only for your concerns, but also with regards to what you want for your student government. To achieve this, we offer:

- Amplify the network of Ateneans and provide an avenue for you to gain potential tie-up partners and other opportunities through our Advocacies Desk, and aid in publicizing your activities and events.

EFFICIENCY

- Establish an info depot where SAMAHAN related information will be made more available to everyone, with or without access to the internet, through releasing a SAMAHAN Monthly Newsletter.

- Make the release of the minutes of the meetings of SAMAHAN more student friendly and comprehensive, through infographics that highlight key points in the discussions inside SAMAHAN. XTRA EFFORT - Release a compilation of need to know documents that would provide infor-

mation on room reservation processes, security protocols, and other information through the SAMAHAN Website.

- Intensify information dissemination through establishing the SAMAHAN TV, showing the activities of SAMAHAN and relevant information that students need.

TRANSFORMATION - Conduct open general assemblies and quick surveys in the university to strengthen participation and consultation in the undertakings of the SAMAHAN. This will also empower the univer-

sity as we make an effort to include you in the decision making in the SAMAHAN. - Take Viewfinder to a whole new level through #BantaySAMAHAN,a program that aims to strengthen student concerns through constant follow-ups of the actions taken by the administration to address your concerns.

Garantisadong abot kamay ang SAMAHAN, in one DEXT away!

FOR TREASURER CHRISTINE "CHIN" SUAREZ/BAHAGHARI “Christine Suarez po, serbisyong Approved Quality – CHECK! garantisado.”

CHECK! ✔ Constitute inventory systems

income while aiding the students’ academic needs.

Handle sponsor-generated resources

• Proper monitoring of assets for SAMAHAN use secures inventory and prevents unplanned expenditures. By creating a system for supplies and equipment borrowing, we can trace the persons liable in case of damage or loss, and eliminate risks of theft through proper storing.

• Internal control measures must be extended to goods and cash generated through sponsors. With a dedicated auditor, we ensure that the resources gained while bringing the name of the school are duly released to the students of Ateneo.

• Additional items open for students’ reservations such as calculators, T-squares, etc, will be available to provide the office with

• Transparency is a given oath of a Treasurer, but the challenge is the means to communicate the financial

Enhance financials publicity

reports. By partnering with UITO, we can link a monthly online release of relevant documents in Daigler and SIS, or email students directly through Blueknights accounts. Financials will include fund raising profits and allocation, SEC and SAMAHAN budget proposals and liquidation reports, as well as documents from the University Finance office.

recognize the importance of managing personal assets to our advantage, and this can be done by conducting personal finance forums, and integrating “games of wealth”, such as Monopoly or Cash Flow Quadrant during annual activities like Fiesta or Palaro.

Conduct financing capabilitybuilding activities

• All of these are aimed at having well-informed students who are aware, comprehends their expenses, and are sure to be paying Ateneo with confidence.

• Managing financials and budgeting skills should not be limited to business courses only. As future earners, we must

Knowledgeable and informed students

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

23

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

KARLA DOMINIQUE TIU/PIGLASAPAT efforts Make use of the facilities of the university to spend more on relevant and useful costs.

Advocacies for Ateneans and Others

S.A.K.T.O. Strong fund maximization

A bigger Sponsorship and Support Committee that advocates to help in providing students financial assistance for students who will represent the university in outside activities and need financial help. Funds

for Samahan Outreach Programs should be used for sustainable and long-term projects.

Keep track of records effectively Regulate internal control of financial records by implementing control activities such as using pre-numbered receipts, performing regular reviews and keeping a back-up copy of the documents.

Transparency and Accountability

allocation.

Monthly update students of the status of the liquidation reports of the different division SECs (e.g. For Review, Has not yet submitted) and post audited liquidation reports for public viewing in a bulletin board.

Also, for a more transparent SCB, I would like to hold the budget hearing in venues that welcomes students to listen to how the SCB comes up with the budget

Organized and functional communication Apart from publishing the financial reports of the divisions online, the breakdown of expenses should also be presented graphically, enabling nonbusiness course students to easily understand. The Budget Transparency program should also be continued and widely publicized.

FOR DIVISION REPRESENTATIVES 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

24 5

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

THE CANDIDATES FOR DIVISION REPRESENTATIVES

1

Dan Timtim Piglasapat

BSA-AT Representative Running for the position of Accountancy Division Representative Ang gusto natin sa isang accountancy division ay maging isang TIM. T-I-M. T- For transparency sa budget ng division and also with the information that every Griffin deserves to know.

I- For interactive and collaborative projects that the division has always wanted.

Tulad ng acquaintance party na one of the biggest challenge in the previous years dahil sa laki ng ating division. Pero it is a challenge I am willing to take because I know that in this journey, #TeamTayo!

M- To maximize potentials and opportunities. Given na na kapag accountancy, gahut na jud na, the best.

Pero gusto kong iopen pa sila for more opportunities para magamit ang kanilang full potential. I want to bring out the other best in our accountancy division by conducting workshops na fit sa abilidad ng bawat griffin.

2

Maan Fidel Piglasapat

B&M Representative Maan Fidel is your next Business and Management Representative! CHILL. That will be my Platform for this coming school year.

C stands for CONSISTENT LEADERSHIP, my leadership as the BM Representative will be conformable and coherent from start until end. If I myself is committed and motivated it will lead to H. HARMONIOUS ORGANIZATION, The SEC Itself. We need to build a harmonious relationship inside the council. The division is the reflection of its SEC. I stands for INNOVATIVE CRAFTSMANSHIP. If there is harmony inside the SEC, we could innovate things smoothly and that would lead us to our first L.

That is having a LIVELY AND MOTIVATED DIVISION. Since our projects will run smoothly, the B&M Students will be motivated to join and have a lively spirit towards our projects. They will trust and they will look forward for more.

The last L is something I really want my division to achieve and that is leverage. LEVERAGE FOR THE VIPER NATION. This is the time for our division to rise. We will listen to you.

We will show you that the business and management division have what it takes!

Vipers, CHILL... Dahil pag si Maan, maaasahan.

CHILL TAYO, SAMAHAN TAYO.

3

Rax Otero Buklat

CS Representative ALAB A - Awareness Helping Students become aware of the current situation within and outside the school L - Level-Up Leveling up the computer studies cluster to show the school we are not underdogs A - Act Guiding students to act against pressing issues not just in school but also outside of it B - Build Building strong and lasting relationships with the students and communities outside of our school to create a strong, active and transparent student executive council TUNAY. PALABAN. MAKABAYAN!

4

Chester Rosario Bahaghari

CS Representative Hello Ateneo! Hello Chameleons! Ako si Chester Rosario, ang sunod niyong Computer Studies Repre-

sentative og naa ko diri karon para sa CS na mas SOLID! S – Strengthen the CSSEC System • We will empower our class presidents by giving them a function inside the CSSEC • We will integrate our committees on different activities to have more successful events O – Offer opportunities for the CS students to grow • We will encourage students to join our CSSEC Committees and organize activities that will make them better • We will let the students show their talents by giving them a chance to participate on different events • We will conduct seminars or forums in collaboration with ACCSS to help the students academically L – Link the CS community • We will conduct year level teambuilding activities to unite students as a batch • We will conduct General Assemblies to unite the whole CS community I – Involve CS students to external engagements and encourage them to be socially involved • We will let the students join our external engagements, like PSITS • We will encourage students to join school activities, like SAMAHAN activities D – Develop a BETTER CS Cluster!

CS andam na ba mo?

Tungod kay Chester Rosario, CS SOLID tayo!

5

Jayson Corpus Piglasapat

EA Representative As the current Architecture Representative and SEA Representative aspirant, I want to take all things to the next level.

Best. I envision the

BEST for the whole SEA Community, specifically when it comes to academic excellence and nonacademic activities. I believe that efficient delegation of task and enough time for preparation should be observed.

Empower. Every SEA member deserves to be empowered. Dapat sea is an office for the students.

We should conduct forums such as mini viewfinder exclusively for SEA to cater all student concerns. Also empowering committees like adding special committees sa Sports, Social media tEAm, tutorial services and the HARDHAT which is the official publication of SEA. I-apil pod nato ang course reps to avoid the "katag-katag" na EA. Spice. Dapat mas boosted ang information dissemination, support sa mga players and dancers ug mahataga’g recognition.

Dapat naay calendar of activities which would help students prepare for upcoming events.

Hamis. I want to implement our plans not just ON time but AHEAD of time. Dapat makapanukad tag maayo para dili mag kara-kara.

So again, I am Jayson Corpus, your next SEA Representative, serving you nothing but the BESH! Ug kay CORPUS, naay PURPOSE! #BESHmodeonmgaTIGERS

6

Derizza Giselle Laburada Bahaghari

EA Representative EA, sa pagpaminaw, kamo tanan akong giawhag, kay ang EA karon mas muUSWAG. U – Una Unahon nato ang mga issues ug concerns sa mga estudyante.

Iutilize nato ang Course Representatives para hisgotan ang student concerns.

Iutilize nato ang hotline

aron ang students naay direkta nga contact sa EASEC. S – Salig Kasaligan nga ipadayon ang pagkaGAHI ug pagkaISOG sa SEA. Kasaligan nga empowered ug integrated ang mga committees.

Kasaligan nga naay transparency sa funds ug sa officers mismo.

W – Wala’y Sawa ug A – Andam Wala’y Sawa ug Andam nga suporta sa academics ug sa holistic development.

Iempower nato ang academic assistance pinaagi sa Academic and Research Team.

Iempower ug suportahan nato ang tanang murepresenta sa SEA. G – Ganado Ganado nga pag-apil sa activities sa SEA, sa SAMAHAN, ug sa tibuok Ateneo.

Iimprove nato ang pagkalat sa impormasyon para ang mga estudyante makabalo.

Magbuhat ta ug mga outreach activities sama sa Christmas Package Drive.

Maong tara na, Tigers magtinabangay ta!

Para sa EA na muUSWAG, si LABURADA ang tubag!

7

Dianne Marie Navarro Independent

HumLet Representative I am Dianne Marie Navarro, aspiring to be the next Humanities and Letters Representative. We have all seen how HumLet has grown in terms of student-SEC relationship, achievements, and SEC performance. This is the legacy built by the current administration, a legacy that should be commended, protected, and UPGRADED. I will bring you nothing but the B.E.S.T! B-uild rapport with ALL HumLet students. I am

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

inclusive to all the courses under HumLet, no one and no course should be left behind E-nhance SEC competence and efficiency. We’ll have a more rigorous selection process of SEC officers plus addition of certain positions and offices to ensure optimum service.

S-tep up to a more competitive Humanities and Letters Cluster. We will strengthen our linkage to academic clubs that would be beneficial to our students.

We will widen our linkage to companies to give you more opportunities and to help you develop your potentials.

We will also empower our own student publication.

None of these will be possible without..

T- your trust. I trust you to choose what’s best for HumLet. Tiwala lang, laban lang!

Dahil dAYAN ang the BEST! Para sa HumLet na MAS AASENSO, iboto si DIANNE NAVARRO!

8

Raphil Vince Saguan Piglasapat

HumLet Representative Wolves, BUGSAY TAYO! B- Boosting Resources and Fundraising • Organization of events and outsourcing of sponsors to build stronger and permanent partnership with firms and institutions.

• Fundraising eventsparty for a cause; block screening; fine dining.

U- Unifying HumLet • Division-wide team-building activity.

• HumLet General Assemblies G- Go Wolves!

• Better funding and support for the Wolves Talent Pool and Wolves Athletics.

• Appointment of a Secretary for Support who will head the Wolves Howlers— a committee designated for logistics, manpower, and support. Cheering Para-

phernalia for a louder Wolf Howl.

S- Society x HumLet • Conduction of free public speaking, writing, and theater workshops in public schools and barangays.

A- All-out Information Drive • Room to room information dissemination.

• Improved Creative and Publicity Team who will focus on visual campaigns, promotionhs, and documentation.

• Annual publication of the Humanities and Letters Cluster.

Y- You • Student involvement in decision-making in the division Para HumLet ay one, i-BUGSAY si RAPHIL SAGUAN! #HumLetBUGSAYTAYO #SamahanTAYO

9

Mae Barrios Piglasapat

NSM Representative Outstanding NSM I want the NSM students to excel academically and socially.

Intensifying tutorials for academic support, practices and trainings for fiesta, intramurals and Sayawtenista will be conducted to ensure high performance by the Falcons.

Student Involvement Walang iwanan mga Falcons. More intensive information dissemination will be conducted through the SEC officers, academic clubs, and class presidents.

Also, students will be encouraged to join and showcase their talents and abilities in different events.

So, together, let us be the change that our division needs. Let’s defy expectations. Challenge the status quo. Let us take a leap of faith for a brighter, bolder, better, NSM. Samahan niyo ako Falcons para sa pagbabagong matagal na

nating inaasam. Mae Barrios po, ang inyong susunod na NSM Representative.

11

DAHIL KAY BARRIOS, ANG NSM, AYOS.

SoE Representative

Rose Catalbas 10 Mary Bahaghari NSM Representative L-evel up Communication For a more united NSM, we will establish a better means of communication that will surely reach each student; that is, through a SEC hotline. The small population of NSM Cluster will make this communication mechanism more efficient. Room-to-room information dissemination will also be employed.

A-ctive Participation Promoting active participation by heightening publicity materials such as posters and flyers to ensure that the students understand the benefits they can get from taking part in a certain event. Organizing programs that the NSM Students find interesting will also greatly help.

K-een SEC Officers SEC Officers will be empowered so that they will be more driven to give better service. Committee integration between the SEC and academic clubs will also be encouraged.

A-ssistance The NSMSEC budget is not enough to support all of the students representing the cluster, given the cluster’s small population.

With this, fund raising activities and sponsorships are to be organized.

S-ocial Involvement and Spiritual Growth Collaborative efforts with different clubs in holding events that will help different sectors of the community and at the same time, help in the holistic growth of students, will be established.

Para sa NSM na MALAKAS, iboto si Mary Catalbas!

25

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

Ericka Gadat Piglasapat

A – Advance student-centered SEC Students must be involved with the SEC. Students must be part in the decisionmaking and must contribute their ideas with regard to activities and others things that whole Education students are involved with.

N – No one gets left behind We want solidarity among Education students. We want to be more united and we want to make sure that no one gets left behind. We want to strengthen students’ relationship through teambuilding and general assembly.

G – Gaining knowledge towards profession Education must be knowledgeable about the K to 12 Curriculum. We need exposures like forums and seminars about K to 12 that will make each education student competitive with challenges that will test passion towards teaching.

A – Ateneo students for and with others We need to be socially involved because we are Education students. We need to reach out with others like the Lumads and involve ourselves with outside events by giving education to less fortunate children.

T – Transparency and Accountability We will make sure that the budget is being usedwell. We have to make sure that we release Monthly Financial Reports (MFRs) and make sure that students are informed in money matters.

12

Raeesa Piang Buklat

SoE Representative D - Deliver necessary student services A - Advance effective communication avenues S - Strengthen the Major

Major (alliance of students who have the same major) I - Initiate community engagement as a part of 21st Century Education, thus fortify the interfaith relationship between the stakeholders of the University G - Gearing up education students to become teachers for the people Para sa SOE na madasigun, Raeesa na dayun! #DASIG

Marie 13 Danielle Samblaceno Bahaghari

SoN Representative Para sa SON na AKTIBO, ASAP ang para sa inyo - solving your problems and concerns as soon as possible!

Active Involvement – As nursing students, it is important to hone each students full potential in both academics and extracurricular activities since nursing is both a science and an art.

Strategic Planning – Early planning and the use of the best strategies is key to development and empowerment of the SEC. We will strengthen the SEC through proper training of each SEC member.

Accountability – Problems and concerns of each student will be given with utmost importance. We will solve your problems and concerns ASAP. Productivity – Outputs and programs in the highest of our hierarchy of needs existing in the nursing community will be given importance. We will take the SON division to the next level.

Sa darating na eleksyon, para sa SON na AKTIBO, iboto si Danielle Samblaceno!

Aaksyonan ang inyong mga problema ASAP!

26 5

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

THE CANDIDATES FOR DIVISION REPRESENTATIVES

Zea 14 Megue Monteverde Buklat

SS Representative “Ang aMEGa ninyo sa SAMAHAN” Serbisyong mula sa PUSO. P-Paglingkuran ang Sambayan.

Naniniwala po ako na ang Social Sciences cluster ang syang dapat manguna sa pagtalakay at paggawa ng mga aksyon patungkol sa mga usaping panlipunan na kinakaharap ng sambayanang Pilipino.

Magsasagawa tayo ng mga forums at educational discussions U-Ugnayang Makastudyante Simulan natin sa Social Sciences Cluster ang pagbubuo ng mga stratehikong alyansa na may maka-estudyanteng oryentasyon sapagitan ng iba’t ibang kurso para makalunsad ng mga programang mapapakinabangan ng mga studyante.

S-Studyanteng Karapatan at kagalingan o Student’s Rights and Welfare Isulong natin sa So-

cial Sciences Cluster ang kaalaman patungkol sa mga karapatan at kaakibat na responsibilidad ng sa ganun ay mapaigiting natin ang ating paninindigan.

O-Organisahin at i-mobilisa ang Student Executive Council para sa mas malaking tagumpay Kakamitin natin ang tagumpay sa pagmumulat, pag-oorganisa at pagmomobilisa sa may 982 na studyante ng Social Sciences Cluster dahil naniniwala ako na tayong lahat ay aktibong kaagapay o active partners ng SS Cluster at hindi myembro lamang.

15

Louise Palma Gil Piglasapat

SS Representative In my 3 years in college as an International Studies student, I have served and represented SS in various activities. As I was representing and serving SS, I was able to realize that I have accumulated ideas, and goals for the Cluster.

I have developed an SS

to the SEC. DREAM for the SS Students!

D- Developed Long Range Plan and Action - I am a prepared candidate with actual plans on: SS Structure, SS objectives and SS strategies written both in mind and paper.

-Having EARLY PLANS AND ACTIONS for future SS-events.

R- Reaching Out - improving our COMMUNICATION. Using both the Social media and your responsible class presidents as my link to you and your link to me.

E- Extra-curricular involvement -The SS-SEC is an opportunity for every SS Student willing to learn and enhance his or her skills.

-As SS-Rep WE WILL WELCOME ANY AND EVERY SS Student willing to cultivate their skills.

Photography, public-relations, entrepreneurship, etc.)

A- Advanced Allocation of Resources

ELECTION PROCESS/MARIA CYRA DEALCA

-Launching of SS Themed Merchandise: SS SHIRT, SS MONTHLY PLANNER, SS FAN, EMBLEM/PIN, and STICKER. -MORE SS Events: Zumba, Block-Screening, Raffles M- MAGIS -Expect Excellence in everything that we do, as we aspire to reach D-R-Eand-A

Zamora, Jr. 16 Roberto Bahaghari SS Representative Dahil kay Bertie, SS ay hindi magpapahuli!

Let’s strike a POSE! P- Prioritize student concerns This is to maximize the SS sec system by focusing on the functions of our class presidents and year level representatives. The students will be given the chance to voice out their concerns through their class presidents and year level representatives who will bring the students’ concerns

O- Organize inter-department programs There will be an organization of team building activities for the students to have collaboration with each other and of course to empower our beloved All Stars friends. Furthermore, it aims to strengthen the unity among all SS students amidst diversity.

S- Strengthen external linkages Socialize with other academic institutions outside of Ateneo and partnering with them in discussing social issues and providing actions.

It is also aimed at helping the students apply what they have learned in the four corners of the classroom to the real world.

E- Encourage participation and support In an organization or in a community, there is a need of visibility upon disseminating information. Through room-to-room campaign and other publicity methods, we will be able to reach out to every single SS student.

The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University

Answers to the crossword of the previous issue

ELECTION PERIOD January 28-30, 2016 Thibault Grounds

+

HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY?

SUBMIT TO BLUE BLOOD. Atenews is accepting submissions for Blue Blood, a section that features views and opinions from the student body itself.

Submit your opinions and essays to atenews@gmail. com with the subject: "BLUE BLOOD_LAST NAME_TITLE" and include personal and contact details.

Be heard and help end the silence of the gagged!

Atenews - VOLUME 61 N0 3

MUDSLINGING AREA/STEELY DHAN CABALLERO

27

+ BEYONDNEWS

JANUARY VOLUME 61 NO 3 AY 2015-2016 28 PAGES 2500 IN CIRCULATION

BARYO TINYO FRANCESCA COSTALES