Atenews
SAFETY MEASURES
The Official Student Publication of Ateneo de Davao University - Est. 1955
NEWS: PUV modernization set to hit PH roads
HIGHLIGHTS: The truth behind Endo
MONTAGE: Breaking the AdDU branding of privilege
The Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) officially launched last June 19 to curb the problems in the traffic, environment, and safety caused by old vehicles. PAGE 5
Started at 1994, Maguate became one of the oldest janitors in the university. Like the other custodians in the school, Noel wakes up early to prepare his things and have breakfast with his family. PAGE 10
One cannot deny the fact that Ateneans have always been branded as The Rich Kids and being an Atenean have always been equated with being wealthy. Being an Atenean is not conventionally synonymous with humility. PAGE 22
Labor issues in Ateneo
Utility workers slam AdDU, Blue Collar over ‘unjust’ treatment
Ram Manlatican & Alexis Matthew Reyes
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he newly-formed labor union, the Samahan ng mga Manggagawang Blue Collar sa Ateneo (SAMABCA)-ALU-TUCP, took to the streets their dismay last October 18 over the termination of the contract between the Blue Collar Manpower Services, Inc. (BCMSI) and Ateneo de Davao University (AdDU). After 17 years of service agreement, the university recently ended its relations with the agency that provided clerical and utility services inside the Jacinto and Matina campuses after University President Fr. Joel Tabora sent a notice of termination to the BCMSCI management.
Despite the notion that the university administration has no jurisdiction or legal obligations over the management of agency employees, the union challenges the Jesuit community and its principles towards social justice. University’s statement The university’s position regarding the issue is based on its legal contract with BCMSI which ran from 2003 until May 31, 2016. Complications between both parties caused the non-extension of said contract. Atty. Manuel Quibod, the legal counsel of Ateneo de Davao, told Atenews how the university decided to end its transactions with the agency. “One year ago na na-terminate ang contract. Tapos from that termi-
Jamrell Vincette Buynay Due to the complaint of the school’s lax security, the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) tightened their reigns on the university policies. Now, questions are raised as to whether these changes bring about more harm than good. With the massive influx of senior high school students, there is often a lack of rooms available for club activities. College students have to compete for weekly room reservations, which are usually on a first come, first serve basis. A student who wishes to go by the alias “Red” described the struggle. “It is a hassle. That’s why we don’t bother reserving rooms if the student office is not available and just hold our meeting either at the cafeteria or anywhere else available. Of course, the change in venue decreases the efficiency of our meeting since the environment is no longer contained, private, and silent like in the student office,” they shared. Red added, “We tried reserving a classroom before, and we were told by a teacher that he was not informed of our reservation so we were driven out. I was disappointed after hearing it, but given that we didn’t have a choice, we simply vacated the facility. After that, we didn’t attempt to reserve classrooms anymore.” OSA Director Theresa Salaver-Eliab recognized this problem due to the increase in the student population. She stated that rooms “should be open as much as possible”, so other groups may have a chance to use them. Red understood the school’s current lack of facilities and hoped that the process would be more efficient. “I wish the offices needed for classroom reservations for other paperwork requirements are closer to each other. There are plenty of times when I felt like a lunatic
TABORA’S 7TH YEAR Commercialization, tuition hike, so-called social justice THE LEFT ALLERGY CA rejects Duterte appointees, sours gov’t-NDF ties EJK & THE DRUG WAR A mother’s tragedy of justice
nation, nagkwentuhan for negotiation para ma-extend sila. Until hindi nagkakasundo, tinerminate na lang,” Quibod said. Quibod defended that the contract between the university and BCMSI has no policies on employer-employee relationship insofar as the workers that agency deploys. The contract solely recognizes the contractual relationship between AdDU and BCMSI. “We were on the contract with the agency, so the workers of the agency are not our workers,” Quibod iterated. AdDU, as the principal of the service provider, acknowledges the sanctity of its contract with BCMSI. The press statement released by the university reaffirmed that involved parties are “free to enter and rescind contracts when conditions are no longer favourable to them.” Moreover, in the same press statement, the university urged its employees to air their grievances directly to the BCMSI, their employer, and not to the university itself. “We’re not part of that. We engage them because they are a legitimate
OSA limits student activities thru tighter rules
GO TO PAGE 4 agency, and under the conditions, we entered into a valid contract,” Quibod added. In regards to the claim that the university is opposed to the formation of a workers’ union, Quibod pointed out that workers have the right to form a union, but there are ‘legal complications.’ For instance, a formation of a union within the premises of the university, a client establishment, may pose a legal issue, he said. Quibod remarked on the workers’ outbursts against the university, noting that voicing these concerns is tantamount to their freedom of expression. Inasmuch as the university refuses to be involved in the controversy, it iterated that the administration
NEWS BY THE NUMBERS
6,225 According to the current count of the Philippine National Police, there are 6,225 drug-related deaths as reported by Philstar.
607 Massive casualties consisted of 109 Philippine soldiers, 453 terrorists and 45 civilians were recorded during the months-long Marawi seige.
GO TO PAGE 2
Duterte cuts peace talks, demands end to NPA attacks Mary Carmille Daulo & Kimberly Maragañas President Rodrigo Duterte moved to cease formal peace treaties and backdoor negotiations with the National Democratic Front (NDF) of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) last Feb. 1, 2017 after relentless guerilla attacks by the leftists and demands to release all political prisoners. Duterte emphasized that if the communist rebels of the New People’s Army (NPA) do not stop the attacks, the peace negotiations shall V O L
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remain suspended. “There will be no talks until you declare a ceasefire, period,” he said. He was dismayed on how the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Presidential Security Group (PSG) were still attacked even when the NPA declared ceasefire. Bad Faith in the Peace Process Duterte pointed out bad faith in the Communist camp after several violations of the bilateral ceasefire. NPA staged an ambush on a two-vehicle PSG convoy killing one CAFGU, injuring five PSG and taking
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hostage of a police asset along the national highway of North Cotabato last July, where martial law had already taken effect. The encounter took place in the boundaries of Arakan, Bukidon and Davao City between 10 PSG men and at least a hundred suspected NPA rebels. Armed clashed between the NPA and military occurred last January despite declarations ceasefire, and each armed group blamed the other for committing ceasefire abuses. Armed Force Spokesperson Brigadier General Restituto Padilla claimed the NPA used “exces-
sive force” against three soldiers in Bukidnon. Police reported 76 bullets were used to kill them. “Kagabi, I decided to lift ceasefire tonight. Wala nang ceasefire,” said Duterte last February 3 despite going against the advice of his peace panel. With the termination of the peace talks, Col. Edgard Arevalo, AFP Public Affairs Office chief said the freed consultants of the CPP-NPA-NDF have all lost their immunity and should submit themselves to the authorities. GO TO PAGE 5 E N D
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5 Cabinet members of the current administration under the leadership of President Rodrigo Duterte were terminated from their key offices.
200,000 Alongside of the Davao government’s plan to modernize its transport system, an estimated 200,000 vehicles with better safety features will replace the old PUV models.
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N E W S AT E N E WS COVER PHOTO Employees casting their votes last October 18, 2017 during the election that would determine the collective will of forming a labor union. Photo by Julien Jame Apale
Contractual workers face salary, other problems year after year In the new scheme, workers risk forfeiting years of work benefits LABOR ISSUES IN ATENEO FROM PAGE 1
empathizes with the workers but remains firm on the legal standing that these are not their employees but of the agency. Union formation Alleged cases of unjust treatment and unfair labor practices by the agency, such as underpayment and unwarranted implementation of policies, caused the rank and file workers to assert their right through forming a union that will seek to protect their security of tenure and other labor rights. According to Anecito Detomal, 46, the president of SAMABCA, the union aims that the employer-employee relationship will be checked and balanced. Detomal said that Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) found out that the agency was inconsistent with the rules and regulations and had issues with regards to underpayment of bonuses such as the 13th Month Pay after conducting inspections in the campus. “Moingon ang Ateneo na dapat mag-complain mi sa Blue Collar kay under agency man mi. Niingon ko sa Ateneo na kung kami man gud magsulti sa agency, di man gud mi paminawon. So since kamo man ang principal, kamo man ang kliyente, siguro naa man moy tingog,” Detomal expressed his sentiment during an interview. A dozen of utility workers sought assistance from the Association of Labor Unions-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (ALU-TUCP), a leading party list of labor federation in the country, after dissatisfied with the actions of DOLE. During a seminar with ALU-TUCP, the workers discussed the process of forming a union on June 18 and decided to elect its officers on the same day. A series of hearings involving the BCMSI followed. During the first hearing, the agency did not object on the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) which 500 workers filed a petition. In the second hearing, discussions on the election that aimed to determine the will of the workers to unionize included the venue of election, a list of participants who were going to vote, among others. However, Detomal suspected that the university was quick to end its transactions with the agency after the release of the certificate of election (CE) last October 6. For him, the abrupt termination of contract was questionable, thinking that it’s a form of ‘union busting.’ Termination of contract In an article by davaotoday.com, a copy of letter of the legal counsel
BELOW Marlon Maguate, the son of Noel who died of diabetes, is left alone but continues to hope for a better future. Noel was also a contractual worker who did not receive just benefits.Photo by Christine Jiyara
of the Blue Collar to DOLE, Glenn Polinar from BCMSI informed Reynaldo Dennis Badilles, chief of the Davao City Field Office of DOLE 11, that “the Service Agreement of Blue Collar Manpower Services, Inc. with Ateneo de Davao University expired last May 31, 2016.” “We shall stop our services on October 15, 2017, as directed by Ateneo de Davao University,” Polinar wrote. Moreover, he said the supposed bargaining unit “has ceased to exist” because of the situation. In a letter dated October 6, 2017, Tabora wrote BCMSI Executive Vice President-Finance Evangeline Camacho informing her that the service agreement has expired last year and that university is not renewing the contract. “For purposes of transition, you will continue providing services until 15 October 2017, unless sooner advised,” Tabora stated. Thus, the employees were instructed to resign from the previous agency in order to reapply into the two new agencies, the JARC Manpower Allied & Services and Bangkal Manpower & Industrial Services Corporation, until October 15. On October 16, the employees who failed to or did not reapply were prohibited from entering the said campus. The dozens of affected employees found themselves jobless after years of work. Days before the election, a group led by Detomal gathered at the Freedom Park fronting the Community Center of the First Companions, reaching out to the administration to no avail. Consequently, on October 18, the group staged a protest simultaneous with the election and challenged the principles of Jesuit priests. “Pari man, nganong ingon ani ilang gibuhat. Pinakakagamay na posisyon na kompanya tapos under agency, nganong nakaako man sila’g buhat ana? Katong nag-rally mi medyo nasuko daw sila, ang mga pari. Bastos gyud ning gibuhat sa amoa,” Detomal stressed. Despite the knowledge that they’re working as contractual employees, around 130 workers did not reapply for fear of affecting their respective length of service and losing their separation pay. When asked about the connection of election to the termination of contract, Ernesto Kalan Jr., the industrial relation officer of ALU-TUCP, linked the university administration to the contention. “Ang naga-pressure karon sa mga tao na dili pabotaron mao si Ateneo. Ang naga-instruct karon sa mga tao na mag-apply sa bag-ong agency ug mag-resign, ang ni-instruct ana is si Ateneo. “Wala nato gi-file-an og petition for CE si Ateneo, kung dili ang gi-filean nato’g CE si Blue Collar. Pero ngano nag-apil man si Ateneo? Gi-cut niya ang service diri sa Blue Collar and then gipa-reapply ang mga tao sa other agencies,” Kalan narrated. Length of separation Rowena Mangaliwan, an elevator attendant for 12 years, is one of the affected employees who did not reapply to the new agencies. She stated the unfair consequences if they would resign and reapply. “Ang advice sa amo kay dili mag-reapply kay kung mag-reapply ka, kailangan ka mag-resign. Kung mag-resign ka, ang pila nimo ka tuig wala na kay [habol]. Mao gyud nay gipaglaban sa akong mga kauban. Mao to kami wala na gyud mi nag-reapply. Pagka-Monday adto kay ni-declare na dili na makasulod ang wala naka-apply kay walay I.D. “Karong ang mga naa sa sulod pa-resign-on man sila para makuha nimo ang 13th Month Pay nila. Ako 12 years na baya ko. Kung mag-resign ka, dili na mabayran ang length of service nimo, mawala to,” Mangaliwan feared. Kalan also pointed out the implication of resignation in order to re-
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Member of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines We are located at G/F Arrupe Hall, Martin Building, Ateneo de Davao University, E. Jacinto St., 8016 Davao City
VOL 63 NO 3 December 2017 ISSUE
Tabloid Design by Ian Derf Salvaña
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N E W S AT E N E WS apply. “Pwede man sila mag-reapply pero ang pressure man gud sa management, lalo na sa Ateneo, ang direct instructed man gyud na kon maong gi-implead nato ang Ateneo with regards diha sa gi-file nato’g complaint. “Gumikan kay si Ateneo ang direct na ni-instruct sa mga tao na pwede mo ka reapply motrabaho mo with Ateneo pero mo-resign. Kung mo-resign man gud ka, i-cover-to-cover pa nimo ang Labor Code, wala gyud na’y nakaingon diha nga duna kay madawat na separation pay,” Kalan stated. Despite their conviction regarding on the matter, Kalan, however, conceded that the administration holds legal basis at some levels. “Kung tan-awon lang man gyud nato ang balaod, tama na wala’y kuan si Ateneo… dili siya impleaded regarding ana na case kung naga-complain ta sa length of service sa workers. Iyaha man gyud na sa Blue Collar. “Duna man gud ginaingon sa balaod na if in case mawala ang isa ka manpower agency, ang length of service diri nimo i-claim sa service provider, like diri karon sa Blue Collar. Like karon wala’y appearance ang Blue Collar, pag dili nimo makuha imong length of service sa Blue Collar, diha gyud na nimo i-claim sa principal. That’s why i-implead nato ang Ateneo,” Kalan elaborated. A question on principles In a press statement released by Kalan on his Facebook account on the same day of election, the SAMABCA-ALU-TUCP challenged the ‘hypocrisy’ of the Jesuit management in failing “to live up to their religious and educational pretensions of being men and women for others.” “All they want is to be regularized and to hold a decent job after rendering five to 20 years of service to the institution. Instead, the Ateneo management responded with cold-blooded and calculated legal maneuvers to trample on [their] constitutional rights. “It is ironic that this can happen in the very backyard of President [Rodrigo Duterte who] stood firmly as [a] candidate on the platform of ending contructualization. He has repeatedly stated that he will never renege on his promise that “endo” and contructualization will be stopped. Today more than ever, workers rely on the President’s administration to make this happen,” the statement posted. “Kung tan-awon nato, ang mga workers naa sila’y rights, ang katungod nga mo-form og union para sa katuyuan maka-CBA sila. Ang CBA mao na ang collective bargaining agreement. Sa CBA kasi ang unod ana dunay pang-ekonomiya, dunay pang-politika, and dunay panghealth and safety,” Kalan pointed out. “Sa pang ekonomiya, una dira ang pagpataas sa sweldo sa mga worker. Isa na ka rason ngano dili gusto si Ateneo na dunay union na mahitabo diha,” he added. Conciliation As of press time, the union, along with the help of ALU-TUCP, still seeks settlement with the BCMSI management and the university administration following the contention. Last October 26 at 3:00 PM, the three parties were supposed to have a dialogue under the supervision of National Conciliation and Mediation Board (NCMB). Only the affected employees under SAMABCA and the university’s legal counsel, Quibod, appeared. The session contacted the representative of the BCMSI management to no avail. This led to the postponement of the hearing scheduled in the second week of November 2017. Around 130 workers are still jobless. Aside from taking up part-time jobs, they still hope to be re-employed without having their length of service affected. “Among panawagan sa Blue Collar na atubangon nila unsa gibuhat nila sa trabahante. Kung duna sila’y violation sa labor standard, bayaran nila. Then ang last namo nga panawagan, ibalik sila sa trabaho. “Blue Collar, among panawagan sa inyo mo-appear mo sa hearing sa NCMB,” Kalan appealed.
CA nixes leftist appointees, sours gov’t-NDF relations Leftist cabinet execs axed due to reforms and personal issues Tresha Ann Forto
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ive out of 27 members have been removed from the cabinet in the current administration; four cabinet members removed under the decision of the CA and one under Duterte’s order. “Wala namang problema yun kasi nga pwede naman silang palitan and it is based on certain circumstances, pwedeng napapalitan sila because they are no longer effective or they are more of a liability than an asset to the government,” Political Science and History Department Chairperson Ramon Beleno III, explained. Duterte has noticeably replaced the vacant positions of the cabinet posts with military men. “Yung sa military naman, I think na it’s more on following orders… being someone who has no experience in National Politics kailangan niya talaga maestablish yung kanyang administration and he can do that since malapit siya sa military alam niya na they follow orders kaya nagappoint siya ng mga military men,” Beleno, said. Two left-leaning cabinet members have been removed from the current administration leaving Department of Labor and Employment Secretary Silvestre Bello as the only leftist remaining in Duterte’s cabinet. “Kung hindi magbabago yung tono, posibleng di rin natin maayos ang disagreement with the left, kasi kung nawala na yung kaliwa diyan at the same time kumalas na rin yung makabayan dun sa house of representatives na coalition with the majority the more na nagiging malapad yung distance between Duterte and the left and we know for a fact that the left continues to articulate concerns of the marginalized,” Center for Politics and International Affairs (CPIA) Director Neil Ryan Pancho, emphasized. The President’s personally picked appointees experienced difficulties in his first year in the office. Duterte’s cabinet members did not just face the public’s eye for controversies but also the Commission on Appointments’ (CA) critiques. CA’s decision on Taguiwalo On August this year, the CA rejected the confirmation of former Social Welfare Secretary Judy Taguiwalo. A majority vote between the members of the CA conspired for the rejection of Taguiwalo’s appointment as Social Welfare Secretary. “I guess this is some of the indirect effects of the failed peace process with the communist rebels. I believe that they were appointed not only because of their expertise in the field but also as a sign of the administration’s sincerity in dealing with the communist insurgents. But you would notice that as the peace negotiations with the left deteriorated, so is with the relationship with the leftist cabinet secretaries. In fact, it was very obvious that during their confirmation hearing, the CA would usually question their involvement with the leftist group,” Beleno, explained. Judy Taguiwalo is a professor of the University of the Philippines, a social activist supported by the labor sectors, and a member of the left appointed by Duterte himself, is the third member of Duterte’s cabinet that
Infographic by Joseph Nasser
has been rejected by the CA. “Pareho silang dalawa ni Ka Paeng Mariano because you are bringing a class issue it definitely does not sit well with a very conservative CA so they are not comfortable with Taguiwalo in the cabinet,” Pancho, said. Lopez’s stand for the environment Former environment secretary Regina “Gina” Lopez with her programs and policies against irresponsible mining throughout the Philippines was ousted by the CA. “I think Sec Lopez was perfect for the job. Unfortunately, she stirred the waters too early. She should have waited for the political environment to settle down before she actually made some moves. The CA find her quite radical and hard to control. But more than that, many believe that there were some lobbying that happened which resulted to her ouster. Her ideas and passion for the job could have been a great asset for the department,” Beleno, expounded. On February this year, Gina ordered the closing of several mining firms and rescinded 75 mining contracts from large mining companies; Lopez’s orders to stop irresponsible mining garnered disapprovals from the CA. “I would say sayang kasi sa lahat ng nakita ko na secretary ng DENR si Gina Lopez yung very categorical when it comes to the environment siya pa yung may lakas na banggain yung mining industry hindi yan ginawa ng ibang mga sec. ng denr si gina lang yung gumawa,”
“I guess this is some of the indirect effect of the failed peace process”
Pancho, said. Ka Paeng Mariano, reforms, rejected Duterte appointed personalities from the left to give voice to the marginalized sectors supported by the left. “Ang kagandahan dun sa inappoint niya na mga left is that they were appointed sa mga departments na kailangan talaga yung perspective from the left like DAR yan kasi talaga yung isa sa mga malaking problema ng mga farmers kung kaya nagiging sila mga NPA or DSWD yan talaga yung mga social services na kailangan nila na hinihingi ng mga tao,” Beleno, said. On September 6, Agrarian Reform Secretary Rafael Mariano is the fourth member of Duterte’s cabinet ousted by the CA. 13 members of the CA voted for the opposition of Mariano’s appointment as Agrarian Reform Secretary. Mariano a farmer himself, ordered land acquisition and proper distribution of Hacienda Luisita. The Department of Agrarian Reform, under Mariano also managed to work on the installation of farmers under Lapanday Foods Corporation. “Pag pumunta ka lang diyan bringing your personality wala masyadong problema pero pag pumunta ka diayn bringing your program especially yung pro agrarian reform na track record ni Mariano mabigat talaga yan,” Pancho, said. Dispute on Yasay’s citizenship The issue regarding the citizenship of the former Foreign Affairs Secretary Perfecto Yasay Jr. was in hot water during the deliberation done by the members of the CA. “In Perfecto Yasay Jr’s case, as mentioned by C.A that he failed to disclose the status of his citizenship. Likewise, it’s reasonable that they rejected his appointment. We (Filipinos) need leaders who value integrity,” Buklat President Arnold Roumel Lavisores, expressed. Yasay admitted his application for naturalization yet denied his acquisition of a US citizenship. However, accounts led that Yasay
was granted US citizenship in 1986. This led to the rejection of Yasay’s appointment as Foreign Affairs Secretary. Duterte’s swift decision on Sueno During the 14 th cabinet meeting, President Duterte fires Interior and Local Government Secretary Ismael Sueno over “loss of trust and confidence.” Unlike the other cabinet members who were rejected by the CA, Sueno is the only cabinet member fired by Duterte, himself. “I agree with the reason but not with the process. I understand that the President is dead serious in dealing with corruption in his administration. And even though Sueno is a close friend of the president, he did not hesitate to remove him on allegations of corruption. But what I did not like about it is that Sueno was removed without due process. He was not given the chance to defend himself. But who knows? maybe the president knew something that we do not know,” Beleno, expounded. Sueno was fired by Duterte for allegations of corruption over the purchase of 76 firetrucks from Austria with a price range of P20 million each, alleged connections with drug personalities, and accusations of exploitation by three of his undersecretaries. “It’s like shooting from the hip…I would not agree with yung nangyari kay Sec. Sueno kasi masyadong mabilis without any deep deep investigation but this is the reality of presidential appointment you serve at the pleasure of the president,”Pancho, explained. So far, 5 members of Duterte’s appointees have been ousted and replaced. “Service does not end here for these wonderful people (ex-secretaries). They can serve our country even without being appointed as secretaries. In fact, this is a challenge for both the president and the C.A to choose the right people. Their responsibility is not a joke. They could fail anytime; their failure is our failure too,” Buklat President Arnold Roumel Lavisores, asserted.
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Examining Tabora: Pushing Ateneo beyond boundaries Assesing issues on tuition hike, university curriculum, social justice Geraldine Antegra
we can maximize the use of winds so we [won’t] need air conditioning,” Tabora shared. The second major infrastructure project of university is the swimming pool in the Jacinto campus, to be constructed between the Martin and Rodriguez Halls. The pool will be 25 meters long, with enough width for four lanes. The pool can only be used for recreational swimming and not for any form of competition.
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r. Joel Tabora, SJ, fourth president of the Ateneo de Davao University, has been serving the Ateneo de Davao community since June 2011. As his sixth year as the University President concludes, another opportunity to further serve his constituents presented itself. From the start of his tenure, several significant changes with the university’s operations could be observed. These changes advocate the common good and betterment of both the Ateneo community and the marginalized voices outside the university’s walls. Tabora’s administration started the Pakighinabi, an open dialogue series that aims to give a proper platform to present the pleas and concerns of society’s oppressed. It was also his administration that introduced us to the concept of All-Gender Restrooms—a project that eases the everyday struggles of the university’s LGBTQ, notably the transgender population.
Social justice
On calendar shift Ever since its neighboring colleges had complied with it, the academic calendar shift or the move of the beginning of the academic calendar from June to August has been one of the major changes Ateneans have been anticipating. With no official statement from the administration yet, students are left to jump to conclusions and find the answers themselves. Tabora expressed his opinions on the suggested shift in an interview with Atenews. “I have no intentions whatsoever of shifting the calendar because it’s not to our advantage. Why do we want to study in the hottest months of the year? Because the Americans have their calendars different?” he said. The University President emphasized there would be no calendar shift in the university anytime soon. Aside from deeming it unnecessary, he says any plan to push through with the shift would cause a financial disruption on the reserves of the institution. “I will not put myself in a position where I would have to wait 3 months to get the products of DepEd’s schools to come into my university. So, [to me], it’s not relevant. It will hurt us,” he said. While still completely against the idea of a calendar shift, Tabora made it clear that he has not shut out the idea entirely. Once the Department of Education adapts the new academic calendar, Tabora assured that that shall be his go signal to do the same as well. New curriculum, programs On the topic of quality education, Tabora has a growing list of reforms that will take effect next academic year. First of these is the revised core curriculum program prompted by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for the benefit of the Senior High School students. “General Education as required by CHED has a different face at Ateneo de Davao because we are trying, through the core curriculum, to communicate what we value in Jesuit Education. CHED may not value the fact that we want our students to be well-prepared Christians, or that we want our students to be prepared to go into interreligious dialogues, or that we want our students to be prepared for Sui Generis leadership.” Tabora told Atenews. The revised core curriculum
Infographic by Alexis Matthew Reyes
program of the Ateneo de Davao University aims to bridge the gap between the General Education courses required by CHED and the hallmarks of Jesuit Education. Tabora emphasized the need for the revised core curriculum program to have distinguishing factors that separate it from those of other non-Jesuit universities. “The core curriculum is the heart of the instruction plan of education at the Ateneo. Students refer to these courses often as minor courses. They must be prepared well in the professional courses, but they must be prepared also in humanity—in being human, in understanding what it means to be a human and what the requirements of humanity are.” Another major change for academic year 2018-2019 is the integration program. The integration program is a newly devised mechanism that tests a student’s readiness—by the mission and vision standard of the university—to graduate. “The integration course is a 3-unit requirement in the new curriculum which will demand of the student in accounting of what he or she has learned in the course, as far as General Education or Core Curriculum and professional courses are concerned. The integration course will try to help the
student reflect on the four-year experience and then give an account to a panel of teachers who will ask the student, “What are you about?” before you graduate. So, if we feel that you do not live up to the profile of the graduate, we’ll tell you to not graduate,” Tabora said. Commercialization of education, TOFI The University President also addressed the necessity of the tuition and other fees increase (TOFI), which has been a constant source of conflict between the students and the administration. “The major consideration for ongoing tuition increases is the necessity to keep your faculty and staff at levels of earning that keep up with or beat inflation,” he said. The increases, according to Tabora, are a way to keep the faculty and staff in Ateneo and prevent them from going elsewhere. It is also the university’s way of showing that they truly value their faculty and staff. “The only way you can get your teachers’ salary increases in a manner that is sustainable is by raising tuition. That’s the only way, unless we had donations coming in from some source that would keep on increasing those donation with the inflation.”
When asked how the administration plans to help those students struggling with the annual TOFI, he said that there are a variety of financial aid programs available in the university. Tabora promised that they will increase the number of financial aid programs available once the university earns back the money spent on infrastructures in response to the educational reform. “The university now is at a point where [around] 16 or 17 percent of all those who are studying here are receiving some form of aid. We are trying to push that into 20 percent. K12 program has derailed that a bit because a lot of our resources have had to be rededicated to infrastructure. When we’re more stable, we’ll be able to have more scholars.” Tabora reassured. Tabora also shared the new infrastructure projects of the university. Ateneo de Davao University’s Bangkal campus, which will set the university back around Php 1.5 billion, will house Senior High School learners, faculty, and staff is designed to be eco-friendly. “That particular campus would be a green campus filled with retention ponds and we will have solar energy. We will harvest rain water and use it for the CR. [The campus was designed such that]
As an institution that upholds Ignatian values, Ateneo’s responsibilities should not and must not stop at the well-being of the students. With each new policy implemented for the student body, programs for the community get passed as well. Tabora emphasized Ateneo de Davao’s commitment towards social justice, specifically in creating a better community for the Mindanaons. “We are, as a university, very committed in Mindanao—to the specific problems that we have with recognizing the social injustices that have been done to the Filipino Muslim groups. And trying therefore, to work, to right the social injustices, and to support the Filipino Muslim communities in their quest for homeland,” Tabora emphasized. As of the moment, his main focus is on the Bangsamoro Basic Law, a bill proposing a new autonomous political entity for the ARMM. After the bill got thrown out due to the Mamasapano incident, his hopes of having it deliberated by the Congress again were reignited after the Marawi siege. “Now after Marawi, we support the passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law. And we would like to get the entire university [to support] this bill,” he said. Another plan the president is devising to be of aid to the Bangsamoro areas is the Madaris Volunteer Program. Tabora touches on the main concentration areas of the program. “The oppressed, the poor, where are they? The absolute worst oppressed are in the ARMM region. The worst poverty in the country is there. The worst delivery of education is there. So, if you want to help the marginalized, think Bangsamoro, or think IP. That’s where it’s worst.” The said volunteer program gives Ateneo de Davao alumni a platform to exercise their cura personalis, or their being men and women for others. For 8-10 months, Madaris volunteers are set to stay in Bangsamoro communities to teach DepEd courses in Islamic schools. In line with the Madaris program is the further strengthening of the Al Qalam Institute in the university. “The whole Bangsamoro question, I think that’s a big thing and because of our desire to make this contribution, we have our own Al Qalam institute here: the Al Qalam Institute for Religious Identities and Dialogues in Southeast Asia. We’re the only Jesuit university with a full-blown Islamic Studies program because we want students to have the opportunity to do serious preparation for service in the Bangsamoro areas. They are teaching Islamic Finance, they are looking into the development of the Bangsamoro areas through economics, and the like,” Tabora said. Another year with the president lies in waiting, and from what Fr. Tabora has talked about, Ateneo de Davao University is set to cement its identity as university strong in faith that does justice.
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PUV modernization set to hit PH roads Drivers have until Jan 2018 to comply with the new program; protests decry costly changes
Kyrie De Chavez
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he Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) of the Department of Transportation (DOTr) officially launched last June 19 to curb the problems in the traffic, environment, and safety caused by old vehicles. The government is specifically targeting PUV’s such as jeepneys that have been operating for 15 years or more. They are set to be replaced by around 200,000 eco-friendly vehicles with better safety features in the next three years. PUV’s made recently but were modeled after 2002 or earlier versions are also expected to be replaced in this new transportation scheme. Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) spokesperson Aileen Lizada clarified that there is a genuine effort to modernize the transport system in the Philippines and not just a blatant phase-out of old jeepneys. “The jeepney as a denomination stays. What the government is fixing right now is what kind of jeepney should be used on the road that is compliant with the Clean Air Act and can give the usual convenience and safety for the riding public,” she explained. A move towards the future The said program mainly tackles the issue on the roadworthiness of old PUV’s such as jeepneys have been cited as unsafe due to the lack of seatbelts for rear passengers. Studies also show that jeepneys have been contributing to the growing pollution issues as emissions from these vehicles are damaging to the environment and people around them. The old Euro 2 compliant jeeps will be replaced by either the electric jeepneys or Euro 4 compliant ones, both of which are safer and more eco-friendly. Each unit is estimated to cost around P1.2 to P1.8 million with features such as air conditioning, CCTV cameras, a GPS navigation system, Wi-Fi connection, Automatic Fare Collection System (AFCS) and speed limiters are proposed to be included. The new units will be equipped with power steering, a handbrake
and bigger capacity for passengers as the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) designs for the vehicle are expected to accommodate 22 commuters. A major change is also expected in the positioning of the doors as it will now be located at the side instead of the rear. Presidential spokesman Ernesto Abella explained that the modernization of the PUV’s is long overdue. “There were several attempts in the past to modernize the public transportation system but these have been thwarted due to transport strikes, which unfortunately have resulted in an outdated public transportation system,” he added. High cost of modernization Early estimates show that the modernization scheme’s total cost to be around P198 billion over a three year period. Given the high prices, the government is set to employ a financing program that will ease the burden of the drivers and operators of jeepneys that would be affected. Transport Secretary Arthur Tugade clarified that the program is not anti-poor. He also went to rebuff the claims of some transport groups that modernization project will eventually put the PUV’s out of business in his speech during the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the DOTr and Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP). “Meron hong mga bangko na handang magbigay ng financing na makamura na maluluwag sila (There are still banks who are willing to help finance the project, which will ease the burden of the operators). “Nililiwanag ko lang ho na yung programming modernization of public utility is not anti-poor; it is not designed to phase out the jeepneys and the jeepney business. It is actually designed to strengthen and guarantee the profitability of the jeepney business,” Tugade explained. Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (Piston) president George San Mateo shared that commuters will shoulder the costs of the program, citing that the fares would rise as high as P20 if the modernization scheme is pushed through. “Pinaglalaban naming ang karapatan ng mga commuter na sana hindi ipasa sa kanila ang malaking cost ng negosyong modernization program… Makikita naming P20 ang minimum fare diyan,” (We are fighting for the rights of the commuting public that hopefully, the high cost of the profit-oriented modernization program will not be shouldered by the commuters. We see that P20 will be the minimum fare) explained San Mateo. Terms and Conditions The plan is for the government to subsidize equity payments or down
payments for the drivers by up to P80,000 per unit. The operators and drivers will then shoulder the burden of loan repayment which is estimated to cost P800 per day.The Department of Finance’s (DOF) financing package includes a 5% equity, 6% interest rate and repayment periods as long as seven years. In addition, the jeepney drivers are mandated to form a cooperative or association to be part of the program as salary for all jeepney drivers will be standardized. This is to prevent chaos and unruly behavior from drivers competing for passengers. “They have to go together in which they can either form a coop, association, corporation, and the coop will now own the franchise. Inside they will professionalize dispatching of the units,” shared Lizada Government agencies such as DOTr and LTFRB claim that the cost of the new units will be bearable as the new vehicles incur zero to low maintenance costs in its first three years when compared to the continued use of their old counterparts. “All business models based on actual studies ensure profitability on the drivers and operators, even if they avail of the financial loan package offered by the government,” the two agencies issued in a statement. Takes from operators, drivers Various transport groups took the roads last October 16 to stage a nationwide transport strike. Jong Ycong, a jeepney operator, shared that he is still unsure of what to make of the modernization program. However, he commends President Duterte for having the political will to push through such an action. “Mas ok man ang modernization kay kanusa pa man ta mag bag o. At least naa tay makit an na progress kay dili ta makacompete kung ikumpara nato sa ubang nasud,” () explained Ycong. As to how the program affected him, Ycong shared that he has already sold some of his old jeepney units which were qualified to replaced in the current scheme. “Kung ila jud iimplement ang balaod kay wala jud siguro miy mahimo. Maayo na lang kay nahalin pud akoang daan na mga jeep kay kung maimplement na ang balaod kay problema kung asa nako ibutang ang mga unit na daan. (If they are to implement the new law then we can’t do anything about it. Luckily for me, I was able to sell my old jeeps because it would be problematic for me find storage for my old jeepney units if the new law is implemented) “Lisod pud kaayo para sa among mga small-time na businessmen kay wala miy igo na capital. Ikumpara nimo sa multicab na makaplit ka ug tag 120,000 to 160,000 tapos maka income na ka ug 500 per day kada unit so dali lang ang recovery sa among puhunan,” (It’s hard for us
Long live the King. Popularly known as the ‘King of the Road‘, old jeepneys will be replaced by newer units by next year. Photo by Miguel Matthew Torro
small-time businessmen because we don’t have enough capital. Multicabs are more feasible when compared to the new units because a multicab can cost around 120,000 to 160,000 thousand while earning a daily income of 500 per unit so that our return on investment is quick) noted Ycong. Napolleon Taguba, a 31-year-old jeepney driver, shared that he does not believe in the nationwide implementation of the modernization of the jeepneys as he believes that they are not the cause of the traffic congestion in the cities. “Para sa ako, dili man jud kami ang rason ngano nagtraffic ning Davao kay kung tanawon nimo kay lisod kaayo magkuha ug prangkisa tas mangita pa ka ug ruta na pwede drivean. Ang nakapatraffic jud ani kay kaning nagkadaghan ang private na mga sakyanan kay anytime basta naa kay kwarta kay makapalit dayun tas diretso madrivean dayun di pareho sa amoa,” (For me, the (jeepney drivers) are not the reason as to why the Davao traffic is becoming worse because getting a franchise and finding an available route to drive on is really a hassle. The real reason why traffic is worsening is the growing number of private vehicles because as long as you can afford it, you would probably buy it and be able to drive it much easier when compared to us) he added. Taguba is also skeptical of the durability of these new vehicles as he believes that they are made for the metropolitan roads. He thinks that these vehicles, especially the electrically-powered ones, might break down when subject to harsh conditions. “Mabalaka ko kung makadrive man kog ingana kay lisod kaayo na ayuhon basta maguba sa tunga sa dalan. Dili pareho aning jeep namo karun na pwede lisoon lang kay maayo na, (I’m worried about what would happen if I can drive one (new jeep) because it is hard to manually fix when you’re stranded in the middle of the road. Unlike the new jeeps, our old ones are easier to tinker and fix)” he shared. Lito Rapas, a senior citizen driving along the Dona Pilar-Roxas route spoke about how this new modernization scheme will cause a burden for him and his fellow drivers. “Unsaon namo pag apas anang pagbayad namo sa kada adlaw na
loan payment na dili baya kada adlaw na daghan ang pasahero. Dili pud gani sigurado na makadrive mi kay basig di makaya sa mga operator na mangutang ug bag o na mga sakyanan,” (How are we to repay the daily loan payment when the number of passengers is not always that many. It is not even sure if I can drive due to the lack of capital of the operators to loan for the new jeepney units) he said. Rapas also stated that he thinks this new program is meant to benefit the big companies more than it can benefit the small-time drivers and operators. “Kung tanawon nato kay dili man jud na makaya sa mga operator nato na mamalit ug daghan na unit anang bag o nga jeep. Mahulog ra na ang mamalit ana kay kanang mga dagko na kumpanya pareho anang Holiday Transport Services,” (If we look at it, the operators will not be able to purchase huge number of the new jeeps. It would fall that as if the big companies like Holiday Transport Service would profit more compared to them) he explained. Commuter opinions Teresita Asuncion, a fruit and vegetable vendor, shared that she is open to the modernization of jeepneys as long as it does not results to higher fares. “Okay lang man, maayo pud kay usahay itom kaayog aso ang ubang jeepney pero unta dili muincrease ang pamasahe kay sakit sa bulsa. Kinahanglan man gud namo magngumpra kada adlaw sa Bangkerohan tas layo baya na,” (It’s okay, there are times that some jeepneys that emit harmful smoke but I hope that fares would not increase because it’s hard on our pockets. We need to resupply everyday in Bangkerohan and that’s pretty far) she added. Fourth Year Accountancy student Christian Joseph Sibugan hoped that the increase would relate to better services and comfort when riding jeepneys since he travels from Mintal to the downtown area everyday. “It depends if the quality of service is worth it. An example would be if the increase in prices would mean better comfort when commuting and perhaps cause less traffic. I just hope that it would still be affordable for everyone,” he explained.
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Forum on HIV-AIDS raises awareness on effects, treatment of disease
Environmental advocates hold global movement to battle climate change
Student-led forum on peace, a first in Ateneo schools
“Physical healing may not be possible for us people living with HIV, but there could be spiritual healing. There is no cure for HIV but with proper care and treatment, pwede pong humaba ang buhay ng isang taong may HIV. Kailangan lang ng healthy lifestyle at awareness. Huwag mag-alinlangang magpa-check.” Thus said, Richard Reyes, in his testimony as one of the speakers during the Universitywide awareness forum was held yesterday, December 6, at the Finster Auditorium, centering on the theme, “Ending AIDS Together.” In line with the celebration of the World AIDS Day last December 1, the event was
Environmental activists from Asia, Middle East, Africa, North America, Europe, Oceania, Central and South America participated in the global broadcast event, 24 hours of reality: Be the voice of reality. The Samahan Central Board (SCB) organized a viewing party centered on the live broadcast, on Tuesday, December 5 at Arrupe Hall from 2:00-5:00 pm.
The Office of the Buklod Ambassador (OBA) organized the Youth Peace Mission Ateneo (YPMA), a forum where students from different organizations gathered to talk and make joint plans for projects on peacebuilding in Mindanao. YPMA’s theme was “Humanizing the Concepts of Conflict, Violence, and Peace: Martial Law and the Marawi Crisis.” The event was held last December 2-3 at the 8th floor media room of the Community Center. According to project head Ian Derf Salvaña, the YPMA will be passed on and adapted by the other Ateneo schools.
sponsored by the collaborative effort of Davao City AIDS Council, Philippine Nursing Students Association, Philippine Red Cross- Davao Chapter, AdDU SAMAHAN, and the Natural Sciences Cluster Executive Council. Patrick D. Albit, RN, MAN of the City’s Reproductive Health and Wellness Center (RHWC) lead the discussion. He highlighted the difference between the terms STDs and STIs. According to Albit, the term STD (sexually-transmitted diseases) was replaced by the term, sexually-transmitted infections (STIs) to avoid discrimination and wrong understanding of such diseases.
“Talking about climate change, especially in a developing country, always brings up questions regarding the sustainability of our support in the campaign against it… It does not, however, subtract from the reality that climate
change is indeed happening, and that human activity is the most powerful influencers of its acceleration,” Samahan Central Board President John Kevin Espino, said. 24 hours of reality: Be the voice of reality hosted by former United States Vice President Al Gore organized by The Climate Reality Project Philippines(CRP) in partnership with the Samahan Central Board, is a global broadcast event emphasizing the value of climate solutions to combat the causes of climate change. Moreover, it aims to encourage the public to take necessary actions towards the ongoing climate crisis.
Freed advisers CPP-NPA-NDF now have to surrender to authorities Duterte labels NPA as terrorists DUTERTE CUTS PEACE TALKS, DEMANDS END TO NPA ATTACKS FROM PAGE 1
Word War A verbal tussle ensued between the President and CPP Founder Jose Maria Sison after Duterte ordered to cancel the fifth round of peace talks from May 27 to June 1 in the Netherlands after the government pointed out bad faith. The President alleged that the communist leader was suffering from colon cancer and was also a coward for not returning to the country. Sison retorted that Duterte was the “number one drug addict in the Philippines”, in reference to the President’s war on drug, and claimed that Duterte was only using the NPA to justify martial law in the south. Hope for negotiations Saying that both parties have not agreed to end the talks, the CPP rejected the termination of peace negotiations with the government last Feb. 6, 2017. The CPP expressed that Duterte’s statement on terminating the peace process might be an impulsive decision that is made without thinking about the pros of reopening the talks. “His decision was made clearly without judicious consideration of the advice of his peace panel, and coming at the heels of a successful third round of peace talks in Rome, Italy just over a week ago,” the CPP said. Despite Duterte’s declaration, the CPP remains committed in pursuing peaceful means of addressing the problems in the country. “The Party and all revolutionary forces are one with the Filipino people in their aspiration for a just peace. The offices of the negotiating panel of the NDFP shall remain open to continue to explore the possibility of reopening peace negotiations with the Duterte government, both on the CASER as well as on the matter of a bilateral ceasefire simultaneous with release of political prison-
Illustration by Demi Althea Padillo
ers,” the CPP said. Duterte said he may return to the negotiating table if there was a “compelling reason” for it. “I do not know what would be that reason, but always, it would be in the interest of the Filipino people,” Duterte said. “I will not waste my time and compromise the integrity of the government.” Impacts Neil Ryan Pancho, Director of Center for Political and International Affairs, discussed the premise of the peace talks between the state and the Left. “For a long time, we have been negotiating with the Left—since 1987. If you try to look, iyang mga nasa NDF, hindi iyan nagbabago ng panel. Ang mga nagbabago ng panel, iyang sa GRP. Meron sila [NDF] historical knowledge na hindi mo magulangan, magaling iyan because they’ve been the negotiating team of the NDF since the beginning.” Pancho added, “Nagababago ang panel sa GRP, depende sa administration. Kaya malabnaw ang historical knowledge.” Pancho also enumerated the effects of terminating peace negotiations during an interview with Atenews. “The immediate impact is the resumption of hostilities between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the New People’s Army. When you
have an existing peace negotiation, you will have restraint on military operations because both parties would like to create a condition of peace.” “But the moment there is a breakdown in the constraint, the restraint will be gone and they will return to their confrontations.” “We know, for a fact, that President Duterte is friendly with the Left. The point is, in the beginning of the administration, he brought with him individuals and personalities who are associated with the left. We have Mariano, Judy Taguiwalo and Lisa Masa. Makita mo ang cordial relationship with the lefts represented by the National Democratic Front. Because of what happened, mas lalong naghiwalay. “We never discount the possibilities na ngayon na may mga backchannels na ginawa ang NDF at GRP. Pero magpo-progress ito to actual negotiations…hindi natin alam. Kasi ang mga back channels na iyan, nangyayari iyan dahil sa mga personal relationships. Tulad ng nasa NDF, halos magkaibigan iyan sila diyan sa GRP.” Pancho recommended that the government should look for the proper approach in dealing with the NDF. He also stressed the need for the government to deliver Ang dapat gawin kasi, i-demonstrate ng gobyerno ang kanilang capacity—that they can deliver results after any successful negotiation be-
cause in 1996, the government inked an agreement with MNLF [pero] hanggang ngayon nagrereklamo si Misuari. Noong 2013, pinirmahan iyong Comprehensive Agreement on Bangsamoro, pero ang nangyari, parang napakatagal ng central government to decide. Hindi pa iyan na-deliver talaga.” Pero sa tingin ko ang pinakaproblema dito iyung congress. May [disconnection] between Malacañang at ang congress when it comes to peace negotiations. Kasi pumapasok ang executive sa peace negotiations pero parang hiwalay ang commitment ng congress. He also emphasized that the civil society play an important role in pointing out the human rights violations committed by either the State or the Left, and such criticisms should not be kept. Student views Remus Calicdan, a fourth year AB-Political Science student, expressed how it is unfavorable for him that the peace negotiations got cancelled. “The cancellation scrapped all the draft agreements that the working committees have prepared, which could have finally been a step closer to the peace settlement between the government and the NDFP. If this continues, then maybe we might as well prepare for another breakdown that maybe, this cancellation might
lead to the termination.” “Also, the cancellation resulted to both parties committing human rights violations. Since both parties are still not talking, there remain no clear orders on the people on the ground given that both the Military and the NPA take their orders from their respective principals.” He stated that there is no good thing that resulted out of the termination. “Maybe for the spoilers (those who are against a peace settlement) it is a good thing but for the people like us, it is not, since we are the ones caught in the crossfire.” “It is sad that both parties are actually forgetting that this is not only for the benefit of the people. However, this is an opportunity for the people to really organize movements to prove themselves that we can be a pressure point for both parties to talk again and negotiate. After all, it is better to negotiate than to keep on shooting.” Meanwhile, Victor Diola, a 3rd year AB-Political Science student, views the cancellation of peace negotiations as advantageous. “The cancellation of the peace talks is a good thing since the government has been taking the losses during the ceasefire. The cancellation of the peace talks can help the government achieve lasting peace, as the talks have been proven to be a barrier for the state to fully suppress the rebel group.”
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CS holds workshops for IT Week As part of the Information Technology (IT) Week, students attended multidisciplinary workshops at the computer labs of 6/F Finster Building last Nov. 23, 2017. Catering to IT and non-IT students, the event was an initiative of the Computer Science (CS) Cluster, and the faculty served as speakers for the workshops. Patrick Paasa gave emphasis on game design in the Game Development Workshop. Katrina Cecilia Corro headed the Multimedia Workshop. Adrian Ablazo also shared his expertise in the Graphics Workshop. Patrick Paasa shared how these workshops are a way to share knowledge to students. “It’s part of IT week. Last year
kasi nag IT week rin kami. It is a way of giving back. Ang ating mga students kasi may mga subjects na ganito na ang other schools probably wala. It is a way of giving back para ma-spread pud,” Paasa said. Ravasco also added how the event gave awareness on how IT can make an impact. “This week is a genuine experience for IT students inside and outside of this university. This event [IT Week], endorsed by CHED and DepEd, was made to prepare [students] of what is new in the IT industry, SHS to open their minds regarding the IT field, and non-IT students to let them appreciate how IT can make lives better.”
Switzerland-based humanitarian org visits Davao To deliver stories of the humanitarian action live from the war zone, Medecins Sans Frontieres organized an event entitled Saving Lives last October 17 & 18, 2017 at Cinematheque Davao, Palma Gil. Medecins Sans Frontieres, also known as Doctors Without Borders, is an international and independent organization catering to victims of armed conflicts and natural disasters by providing them emergency aid and medical care. Dr. Karina Marie Aguilar, an Anesthesiologist and one out of the four speakers present during the event, discussed the origin of the organization. “We were founded in 1971 by
Continual disregard for school rules led to the stricter implementation Students were dissatisfied with the school curfew OSA LIMITS STUDENT ACTIVITIES THRU TIGHTER RULES FROM PAGE 1
running about the school only to be turned down or to be directed back again from where I came from.” “If they are going to require so many offices to be included in the paperwork processes, then I guess the least they could do is make these offices closer together or group them in one place,” they added. In response to the tedious reservation requirements, Atty. Valenzuela stated that they are already fine-tuning the Caberio Online Room Reservation to ease the booking process. “There’s already a beta-testing. Once it’s finally up, all reservations will be done online, the approval is also online,” she said. SAMAHAN President John Kevin Espino shared that the online reservation process will be less stressful for the students. “It is envisioned to be a completely paperless alternative solution to the current system of reserving various equipment, facilities in the university,” she explained Lights out at 9:30 pm Another rule introduced this year that has proven to cause various inconveniences to the students is the prohibition of student office use after 9:30 pm. Daniella Meking, a 3rd year Mass Communication student, explained the problem. “Daghan na kaayo ug times nga gusto ko mag stay for group works or practices. Imbes hapit na unta
mahuman, kaliton lang ug palung ang suga ug tawagon mi sa guard kay manirado na,” she shared. [There were plenty of times when I wanted to stay for group works or practices. Just when we were about to finish, the guard turned the lights off and told us that it was closing time.] According to her, the school is the most strategic place for practices and group works. It is also safer to conduct meetings inside the campus at night. To this issue, Eliab replied that students are allowed to stay, but they cannot extend the campus curfew from time to time due to the implementation of Martial Law. Late-night use of offices has to be coordinated with the PPO and security. Uniform responsibility After the issue with campus security’s unequal enforcement of the university’s dress code and the Roxas Night Market bombing, OSA transferred the responsibility of imposing the policy to the faculty last year in a bid to ensure compliance and tighter security. However, the plan later backfired and ultimately increased the number of students violating the dress code. Because of this, OSA imposed a stricter observance of the uniform policy and once again gave campus security the role of ensuring compliance. The office passed sanctions on its violations which took effect in the summer semester this year. Penalty for the first recorded violation of the dress code is punishable by 15 hours of community service and 30 hours for the second offense. Atty. Ira Calatrava-Valenzuela, Assistant Director of Student Affairs, explained that they would roam around from time to time
to check, but they cannot do it the entire day. She also reminded how it is the students’ responsibility to follow the school policies. “You are college students. We’re not supposed to police you anymore,” she said. Despite the many complaints, Ulysses Agura, a 2nd year Mass Communication student, expressed how he favors the dress code. “For me, the uniform policy is fine to maintain the order and the identity I have as a student. Also, it’s time-consuming to have to choose what to wear every day,” he shared. Jose Luis Galay, a 4th year Civil Engineering student explained how some still manage to get away with not following the dress code. “I still see students not wearing the school ID, especially on washday,” he said. Reply to demands During the last Viewfinder, students raised questions about the school’s lax security and requested it to be tighter. Eliab and the OSA answered this by becoming more stringent on the policies. “Stricter kami because the students demanded that,” she said. Eliab also shared that complaints about the more rigorous implementation of school policies were confusing since it was the students themselves that requested the change. “You asked that we be [stricter, and now we are.] And yet you’re complaining,” she added. Despite all the complaints, Eliab assured that these safety measures are for the good of the students. “We are very particular on security. Everything should be open,” she said.
a group of French doctors and journalists. And this was born out of a conflict. […] So, from that conflict, they wanted an NGO that would respond to emergencies and be able to tell something about it so that the world will know.” Dr. Aguilar discussed further the nature of MSF to break all misconceptions surrounding their nature of work. “Our work is aimed to preserve life and alleviate suffering with the view to protect human dignity and restore people’s ability to make their own decisions. So, we’re not into development; we’re not into peacebuilding, states building, and human rights work.”
Third Ignatian Conversation aims to seek truth in IT world In line with the celebration of the Information Technology Week 2017, the third Ignatian Conversation was held yesterday, November 22, at Finster auditorium, centering on the theme, ”Finding Truth in the New Age of Information”. Fr. Ramon Prudencio S. Toledo, S.J. & Fr. Ulysses S, Cabayao, S.J. were the lead discussants of the said dialogue. Aside from the faculty, admin, staff, and students of Ateneo de Davao University, both from primary education and higher education, guests from St. Peter’s College of Toril and Philippine Catholic Lay Ministries also participated during the event. The conversation revolved around seeking truth and finding
freedom by pursuing what is truthful. As the ability of people to discern truth amid the influx of information in modern media becomes an issue, it hopes to help its participants determine the truth. It tackled the effects of social media responsibility, fake news, discernment, post-truth and many more. Fr. Toledo presented recent social media statistics in the Philippines and the whole world. He cited that information rapidly circulates online among millions of users regardless if it is true or not. He also discussed the impact of social media on the business world and each individual.
Women groups hold program against violence and abuse Hundreds of women gathered in Rizal Park last November 27, 2018 to participate in the launching of ‘One Billion Rising Revolution 2018’, a movement that aims to end violence and discrimination of women nationwide. Some of the women’s husbands and children were present during the event to show their support for the said movement. The program started with an opening dance and invocation of the Barangay Panacan women followed by the welcome remarks from City Councilor Avegayle Ortiz-Omalza, Head of the Committee on Women, Children and Family Affairs. In an interview, Ortiz-Omalza
shared that the program aims to help victims, especially women, who suffer from physical and mental abuse. “We are here for them, the government and other NGO’s. We are here to help them stand against their perpetrators. We have services like the Integrated Gender and Development Division (IGDD) along with 911 and the Gabriela hotlinewhich they can call whenever they are abused or witnessing abuse,” she added. Ms. Lorna Mandin, Head of IGDD, shared that the even aimed to spread awareness of the abuses.
Local journalists give talks on the changing media This year’s Globe Media Summit and Davao Media Freedom Day was co-hosted by the university’s Mass Communication Department and held at room F213 last November 23. Seasoned journalists from all over Davao arrived to give talks about the evolving media. The 8th Davao Media Freedom Day was organized by SunStar Davao, ABS-CBN Davao, GMA Davao, Mindanao Times, Philippine Daily Inquirer, MindaNation, and Globe Telecom. Its theme was “Traditional/ Digital: The Changing Medium” which aimed to further encourage
media excellence in civic, investigative and explanatory journalism. Among the speakers of the event was Carlos R. Munda from MindaNation. He explained how social media is becoming a huge part of our everyday lives. “Social media is not just a medium to share information. It’s a way to communicate,” he said. Modern technology and social media have not only affected people’s way of communicating, but also the way news is portrayed.
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E D I T O R I A L AT E N E WS
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ATENEWS ASKS
ATENEWS 2017-2018 Editorial Board
Do you agree with the university’s decision to implement the mandatory drug testing on random students?
As part of a University that is a strong advocate of Social Justice and ‘Common Good’, there is nothing wrong with having a mandatory drug test. If this is a way to promote the school’s vision of students with character and excellence, then the students must rightly adhere to the institution’s demands so to achieve the common goal. Also, as law abiding citizens, illegal drug use should have never been an option for a rational thinking person. (speaking from a context about drug use that is rampant among students; the curiosity, dependency, and substance abuse type) But, above all, a drug testing should have a substantial purpose of why it should be done. Ethics and practical considerations should always be prioritized. Ethel Joyce Boligor, AB Psych 3
Yes. I am in unity with the university’s decision to implement the mandatory drug testing as one of the effective means to make sure that students are protected of the harms of prohibited drugs. Such mechanism will also send a message that the university is strongly against the use of illegal drugs.
I stand neutral towards the random drug testing campaign of the university among the AdDU students because it only promotes the stigma of fear and shame rather than going down the pit of the problem. It only stands as a determinant, but not as a solution. The campaign also only serves the student when he/she is bounded inside the premises of the school. However, it is the most feasible and realistic approach momentarily about the problem at hand. It also shows the university’s seriousness in treating this urgent issue.
Justine Nicholas Aquino, AB Psych 3
Sheena Hernandez, AB IDS minor in Media and Business 3
Jupiter Cabig Jr. Editor-in-Chief
Avegail Gimeno Managing Editor
Kyrie De Chavez News Editor
Joseph Nasser Art Editor
Allyster Berthe Astronomo Social Media Editor
Staff Rosvir Kate Flores, Ram Manlatican, Kimberly Maragañas Senior News Writers
Sabrina Zehender Senior Features Writer
Stephany Kate Bergado, Christian Hel Cemine, Maria Cyra Jane Dealca, Carlo Isiah Escarda, Raf Maurince Tacder Senior Cartoonists
Hannah Lou Balladares, Jacymae Kaira Go, Alexis Matthew Reyes, Charlotte Billy Sabanal Senior Photojournalists
Ralf Vincent Bajo, Myrile Cadalzo, Mark Vincent Lerio, Ian Derf Salvaña Senior Layout Artists
Jono Luiz Cosio Senior Web Developer
Geraldine Antegra, Jamrell Vincette Buynay, Mary Camille Daulo, Tresha Anne Forto Junior News Writers
Illustration by Christian Hel Cemine
Yves Mathieu Africa, Aliyah Jeande Muta
The youth skepticism
Junior Features Writer
Demi Althea Padillo, Samantha Yap Junior Cartoonists
Julien Jame Apale, Christine Jiyara, Loraine Rubi, Miguel Matthew Torro Junior Photojournalist
Mario Mendoza Junior Web Developer
Patricia Mae Chi, Dominique Francesca Costales Contributors
Fr. Erwin Rommel Torres Moderator
Ermily Frances Derecho Blueblood
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ontroversies are like a phoenix: from the ashes of one rises another. There will never be a shortage of headlines nor hearsay that will question your principles, shake your beliefs, or paralyze your truths. And with each issue that captivates Ateneo comes a painful yet necessary by-product, pouring out in hundreds, polarized and unwarranted: opinions.
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here are obvious problems that the present generation have to overcome; the unresolved deaths of Kian delos Santos and Carl Arnaiz, the hazing incident which took the innocent life of Horacio Castillo, the rise of Mocha Uson defenders and the strengthened polarization be-
tween the political opinions of the “Yellowtards” and “Dutertards”. These issues may have a direct or indirect consequence in the lives of the masses which could change one’s view of the current Duterte administration, or increase one’s battlecry for justice, or become more critical of the release of news reports and the existence of ideolo-
gies that cause further divide than finding unity to solve the roots of the issues. Despite the existing barriers among Filipinos, there is one hope that never fails to solve any social dilemma: the ability to question the current status quo. It is a withstanding truth how Philippines in the present context is experiencing a gap between those
who know sufficiently the social issues and those who lives superficially along with the issues. Knowing better than what the media platforms offer is such a difficulty in this era of fake news, blatant use of authority to deceive people and the spread of apologists defending the wrong side. Popularity still persists to overcome the truth because people are more driven to believe what is common than what is right. Also, there is less incentive for people to look for the best available information because it only concerns them a little or they have suffered from aversion of engagement for at the end of the discourse, no progress is, at worst, attained. Besides the losing interest of people, some operations of the media companies have become selective and limiting to the flow of information. Those information that will sell are packaged to profit and those that will not are kept closed out of the right of the public to be equipped with quality information to be able to participate in rich discussions over mere reciprocation of hatred and personal attacks in social media sites. Given this face of Philippine media, less people put value to relevant information and more people give much premium to information that will validate their personal biases. These actions of the people pose a threat to democracy, where people are expected to rationalize not select, and question not follow straightway what is offered by social institutions which prime duty is to create a sphere of sufficiently and well-educated masses. By simply observing what is happening in the society, the strength of the youth is an urgent demand. Through the current machineries to shape the landscape of political discussions and public opinion such as competitive debates, open forums and seminars to deepen the knowledge about the untouched sectors of the society and the expansion of knowledge through the works of scholars and writers, the prolonged struggle for the accessibility of information and discourse is apparently attained in this period of time. The youth, commonly referred to as the millenials, should commit to responding to the need of the greater society. Each of them should question each bill or law passed in the legislative, each turnover of new politicians, each decision of the President, each record of human rights violation, each tuition fee and other school fees increase, each memorandum posted on school bulletins, and each inch of action that will affect those who are deprived, oppressed and left unvoiced. Millenials should never forget to give back to the society where they belong and the best way to do it is perpetually question until every truth becomes the most refined version of truth and every information becomes the finest available information.
Revalidating opinions An opinion in and of itself, is useless. It’s simply a reaffirmation of what we already know, nestled in our biases and ignorance. What we think about a certain object hardly changes its identity. It is only when we broadcast our opinions, inviting others to criticize it and the circumstances that allowed us to come to that conclusion, that it begins to thrive. The problem is that we often wrap our opinions in pride, as if our shaky and uneducated stance on this particular topic is representative of who we are as a person and consequently, an attack on this view is an attack on who we choose to be. I see this in the petty
wars that Ateneans love to take part of, micro-doses of animosity delivered in 280 characters or less. At the end, it doesn’t matter if we’re talking about suicide or mental health or whether Accountancy really won overall champion or the fact that there is a marble bathroom in Jubilee for no clear and acceptable reason, we’ll never learn as a collective if we choose to hold on to our individual perceptions armed with insults and strategically-placed emojis. If we choose to speak up, and we inevitably will, because the evolution of social media from a pastime to a lifestyle necessitates commu-
nication, we must also be ready to shut the hell up. Discourse shouldn’t exist to prove how one opinion is more correct than the other, but it should be about making sure our opinions don’t exist in isolation. This is important because our opinions dictate the way we move in the real world, and the real world doesn’t revolve around you. When we allow people to challenge our opinions, we make our world less constrained, less narcissistic. If not changing our opinions completely, we at least become more considerate of the way other people think. At the very least, we are reminded that although their
vision of the truth is different, it is nevertheless valid. An opinion, no matter how perverse or immoral, will always be better than apathy. But we should always allow our opinions to be jaded by the world we live in, or otherwise live in a skewed reality that always tilts everything to our favor and for our egos. Speak up for what you believe in, speak against what you don’t, and be humble enough to listen. We may never resolve every controversy that razes Ateneo’s social consciousness, but there is hope that we’ll be better people after the wildfire dies.
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O P I N I O N AT E N E WS It depends on the willingness of the student to be tested and the criteria for the random selection of the university. Rona Melissa Plana, BS IT 3
Kung tutuusin naman, ano pa bang silbi ng pagcoconduct ng random testing? To strike fear amongst the students that have been using drugs? Hindi naman sa gusto kong hayaan at ikonsinte ang mga gawain nila pero I’m pretty sure that the number of ‘random’ students that turn out to be positive in these tests would disppoint the university. And to come to think of it, these tests would also be at the expense of every student regardless if they get tested or not.
In my opinion, i agree with the drug testing for students but I am against of it being “random” it takes away the freedom of the student, he/she should be informed beforehand instead of having it randomly. I think it should be the will of the student to have himself/herself drug tested. Jessa Castillo, BS MKTG 3
Marilyn Rabago, BSAT 4
Given na man jud nga naay harm (psychological, physical, social, etc.) nga dala ang drugs so the whole idea sa mandatory random drug testing and iyahang use as a prevention na step, okay jud. Ang pag implement sa iya is still grounded sa core values ng ateneo. Dili ka i box out of the society. Instead, tabangan ka na matarong (idk the right term). Murag “mandatory random drug testing the ateneo way” jud.
No. Given the ateneo values of respecting for individuality. I believe they should not implement this as mandatory. Maxene Kyla Olaer, BS Bio 3
Ralph Christian Zorilla, AB Psych 4
There should be an implementation of the mandatory drug testing to random students in our university for it will help the students to be knowledgeable of the drug cases here in our community, the youth will be educated and it will serve as a guide for a better society. Reich Cerna, AB PolSci 3
Thirsty of freedom
D Jupiter Cabig Jr. Laicorum Aeternam
avao’s Freedom Park is prominent when it comes to protests, rallies and socio-cultural presentations. A plethora of leftist groups, human right advocates and socially aware citizens collectively gather to raise their flags and banners, chant their songs of demonstration and shout their demands under the sun’s scorching heat to call the attention of the seemingly passive political leaders inside their well-ventilated offices. For passers-by, it has become a usual scene to see activists initiating peaceful protests against the injustices of marginalized sectors like the Lumad, some raising their placards with explicit petitions to stop the exploitation of workers, students shouting for a more justified tuition fee increase, farmers bringing their concerns to the attention of the public because of the
neglect that they get from their respective local governments and other sectors who believe that democracy still has a place in a society where stratification is grave and systems of institutions are problematic. I always assume that every protest is sufficiently loud and attractive. But, most of the times, no one has the guts to join them. Surrounding the protesters were passers-by, cars honking and those who tried to sneak a peek but chose to stay unresponsive. After joining a number of rallies held at the park, I have realized that what keeps people’s feet stuck on the ground is never the their ignorance of the issue, rather it is their fear of engagement and the unwillingness to be part of something that is greater than them. I always see some Ateneans too. But, they’re too far to be recognized and too inaudible to speak out. I can’t help myself but compare the present and previous generations when it
comes to utilizing our freedom of expression. We have seen EDSA Revolution which was successful in tipping over an oppressive regime. Our newspapers were once full of depictions of a mass protest against Marcos’ burial. On our televisions, we have witnessed the rallies of our farmers to compel the government to pay them back of their incompetence, but instead were compensated with bullets destroying more lives and went home to experience the same dire condition. All of which have little to no participation from the youth. Why are we always satisfied with the “few”? Have we become so kind to not fight back against a system that further entrench the existing social inequalities and stay gagged when it comes to our freedom? The questions above have no absolute correct answers. But, there can always be a solution. The youth, especially,
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can largely contribute to the process of seeking for the best way to solve problems that are always greater than our scope. We know it within ourselves that there more than a million ways to express our support to the different causes and advocacies that may or may not directly harm us. We know that we belong in the same circle. Not necessarily with the same struggles but our actions can have different impacts and we don’t know how many Napoles or Marcos will be replaced because of our simple participation. The Davao Freedom Park will forever stay iconic to most of us. But, the irony that it possesses will remain constant if we stay unvoiced and passive. In silence, we will always be trapped inside a box. It is only then when we start to act where we achieve liberation, then change.
Wheel of fortune
D Kyrie De Chavez Thought Tyrant
uring one Sunday afternoon, I had a chance to ride a near-empty jeepney. Accompanying me on the trip is its driver, Mang Nestor, a 50-year-old father of two sons. As we drove along the downtown area, I threw him questions on what he thought about the impending Private Utility Vehicle or PUV Modernization Program which would affect thousands of jeepney drivers nationwide. He shared that he was grateful that his two sons had already graduated college before the said change would take effect as he thinks that the program would be hard on them financially. Mang Nestor understands that the there is an actual need for reforms in the transport system here in the Philippines, but he is also sympathetic to his fellow drivers who are not as unburdened as he is. The context in which the government bases its decision is fair. The traffic that the jeepneys causes are costing the country P2 to P3 billion every day. Add to the fact that the old jeepneys are contributing to the growing problem on air pollution which, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), is attributed to one in every four deaths here in the Philippines. Statistics also show that jeepney passengers are ten times more likely to get into an accident compared to private car riders. These numbers alone are enough for an actual need for change. The implementation of the said change is fast by Philippine standards, and that, by itself, is commendable. It is not always that change in a decades-old system is quickly acted upon. This is evident when
past administrations also had plans to overhaul the transportation system but were always harangued by transport groups. The protesters would cite that the said change is anti-poor and would only burden the drivers and the riding public would be subjected to fare hikes. As those that came before us questioned changes, we should also take the time to ask ourselves if this program beneficial for the parties involved both in the short term and long term. First, we must look at the government’s perspective. They would be implementing a change that would be one of the landmarks of Duterte’s administration. A total scrapping of this old transport system is a breath of fresh air for the riding public as they would be safer and the environment would be less damaged by these new vehicles. The drawback lies in the cost of the said program as they have already sought to finance the P198 billion program from institutions such as Landbank and DBP while in talks with other private banks. The government has also redirected funds from previous transportation programs like the (Comprehensive Automotive Resurgence Strategy) CARS which was supposed to fund the manufacturing of new vehicles and parts here in the country to reduce our dependency on importing vehicles from other countries. Second, we should note the impact this change has on the riding public. The vehicles will be a lot more modern as it has features such as the automated fare collection system, CCTV cameras and better seating arrangement. Some of these new vehicles will also have air conditioning, GPS navigation system and Wi-Fi connection. All good, right? Maybe, if only the fare stays as it is but it is
highly doubtful even with reassurances from the government that there will be no fare hikes as these improvements come at a cost. It is highly unrealistic for jeepney operators, even the big companies, to garner profits while paying an everyday due of 800-900 pesos for each new vehicle, never mind the cost of gas during the whole day and to pay the proposed standard salary for jeepney drivers. The government assures the operators that there is a better fuel efficiency in these vehicles and lesser maintenance costs so that a fare hike is unnecessary but still, transport groups are clamoring for a P5 to P10 fare hikes for small operators to have a chance in gaining profits. Finally, we should put ourselves in the shoes of the 300,000 affected drivers and operators nationwide. Yes, the new vehicles will be more comfortable for them. Also, it would house 22 passengers when compared to old units which only accommodate 16 passengers. Better fuel efficiency and fewer maintenance costs would be a massive advantage for them in the long run. The question lies in how would they start? The government offers a P80,000 subsidy for down payment and loans with low interest rates. The individual drivers would be disallowed to operate as drivers now have to form a franchise of at least ten drivers with ten units. These franchises would usually be owned by big companies that can afford the high initial costs of the purchasing of new units. Of course, smalltime operators will still have a chance, but it is now more favorable to big companies who have significantly more capital. The usual cry of the drivers now revolves around the un-
certainty of obtaining a job. They feel that the program will displace a lot of them, especially those who own their unit. These drivers who have a jeepney unit would be subject to a debt that they are ill-suited to repay. The situation worsens even more if drivers don’t have a backing from a huge company to defray costs for them in the event of an unprofitable day of work. What’s more alarming is that the President himself is pushing these drivers into the chopping block by saying that old jeepneys will be dragged off the road if they aren’t registered and modernized by January 1 next year. He further adds insult to injury by saying that if drivers and operators aren’t able to upgrade, it means that they are poor and should go out of business and suffer. Government officials quickly supported the President as they said that Duterte only means to display the urgency of the situation. The government means well in their pursuit of modernization but, as usual, comes at the cost of somebody else’s. Why the sudden rush for the program when the administration could have waited a little more time to garner funds and further help the drivers which are the most affected in this new scheme. Why are there no exceptions for poverty-level drivers supporting multiple dependents? Now that the program is more favorable for big companies, will there be monopolization in the transport industry? And if there is, will it be good for all the parties involved? Change is absolutely needed for the transportation system. There will certainly be sacrifices to be made but the question still remains. How much can we let others sacrifice for this change?
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The truth behind Endo Contractual workers continue to struggle for subsistence with meager wages, but bigger challenges awaits them with their agency Yves Mathieu Africa
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he feet that used to walk along the corridors and sweep the hallway floors were already gone, long after Noel Maguate had stepped off the campus. He was an all-around janitor by day, and a full-time husband and a father to his family, which painstakingly arrived to his death. Started at 1994, Maguate became one of the oldest janitors in the university. Like the other custodians in the school, Noel wakes up early to prepare his things and have breakfast with his family. Noel’s life was inclined to financial difficulties, with his family as his utmost priority - to be fed and to be provided a simple yet comfortable place to sleep in. Although, his regular work kept his twelve children humbly privileged, and some are already working for themselves. His eldest daughter is now at abroad, while the rest are keeping their occupations in Davao City. Prior to securing his long-term job in Ateneo de Davao University, Noel had been also working as a janitor for a local company. After a long while, he transferred his career to the school and became a regular employee. Francisco Loreto, one of Noel’s long known co-workers and friends in the university, said that he was a virtuous man; however, his life did not become comfortable as he himself envisioned. It was the start of something he had kept as confidential. Noel was a fan of sweet drinks. His daily grind includes a liter to a liter-and-a-half bottle of Coke for breakfast, shared by him and his wife. For lunch, they share another bottle. After a while, he shifted his quench for coffee, averaging to six cups a day. This lifestyle evened out problems, causing him to suffer diabetes, and consequently disabling him to work efficiently. “Ang iyang sugar taas na kaayo, 24 na gud. Pito ka 3-in-1 sa isa ka adlaw, unya pagka-hapon ana magmaruya na siya, unya mag-coke. Ako sigeg tambag sa iyaha.” Francisco explained. He secreted his condition for about about ten years. Francisco said that his complications were evident as the way he treated his health. “Natinuod gyud kuno ang tanan… ‘Undanga na ninyo ang coke, sa inyo ra gihapon pauli.” Loreto said, as his words became vivid to reality. Noel’s complication was hereditary. He is the fourth out of the eight siblings who have died, where two of his older siblings suffered from liver cancer and breast cancer respectively, while him and the third of diabetes. Living in his small abode in NHA Agdao, Maguate also dreamt of extending his house space for the comfort of his family. His body was already frail, knowing the risks interrupted by diabetes. When he started the renovation, his left foot was pierced by a steel wire. Even though, he still managed to go to work and depended on self-medication. Once, his lacerated foot began to smell; but he himself felt unconcerned with it. Not soon enough, he had decapitating operations on his left leg due to severe gangrene, with the doctor vying that this would be the best for him. “Halos tibuok lawas mamanhod na. Didto nagsugod ang iyang kalbaryo,” Loreto assumed. Noel did went home, only to find out he can never come back to work. His condition worsened and was put into coma. He died at the age of 57, two years before he could have retired as a custodian.
Photo by ChristineJiyara
Addressing the ‘help’ Noel’s second eldest son, Marlon, is also a janitor; but unlike his father, he is not a regular employee. He said that his father’s separation pay after resignation did not cost much, as it supplanted his expenses on loan, medications and funeral. “Nagkautang-utang man gud mi ato. Wala pa siya [Noel] nasakit, akong mama nasakit na. Walay madaganan akong papa.” he said. Marlon further said that the benefits that his father could get were from the university, and so they advanced money to aid her mother’s hospitalization. She had undergone dialysis also due to diabetes, and died forty days after Noel’s passing. It was difficult for them to find money because both of his parents suffered at the same time, and apparently had unlikely situations that domed serious spending. “Nagtapal lang akong igsuon katong sa gawas [abroad], gidugangan lang gani para makapalit mi ug lote nga panglubong sa among ginikanan.” he said. The 34-year-old progressed in studying criminology in MATS and University of Mindanao. However, when he got married, he did not finish schooling and was obliged to work instead. Now, he is one of the school’s janitors under the Blue Ribbon Manpower Agency, where most of them were manned. As a part of the university’s workforce since 2004, Marlon’s monetary struggles limited his resources. For much of the contractual workers like him, it is a spare and save method, especially that he’s the
breadwinner of his family and that money is perceptibly difficult to acquire. Having blessed with two children, his monthly pay is good enough to suffice their basic necessities such as food, baby needs, and school materials for his eldest child in the third grade. He also said that he can no longer buy things like clothing, which would take him years to buy. “Bisag ing-ani sad, buhi-buhi gihapon. Tama-tama lang gud. Kakaon ka’g ka-tulo pero na di gyud makapalit. Makapalit lang kag uban mga gamit kung maabtan ug tuig-tuig, kanang naay natigom.” Marlon spoke for himself. A look at contractualization In the Philippines, contractualization is very common among firms. Agencies, and even corporations, practice the hiring of employees under a finite period of five months. This avoids regularizing workers, stripping their privileges such as in PhilHealth, SSS, Pag-IBIG, holiday pay, 13th month pay and such. Also, it maximizes the firm’s revenues without spending more for the supposed to be regulars. The term ‘contractualization’ did not appear existent under the Labor Code and the rules and regulations set by DOLE, yet it spread to various distinctions such as ‘Endo’ or ‘End of contract’, and deceptive contractorship. And while this practice became relevant during the time of Marcos, its nature has been adapted by the present economy in the Philippines.
This is a burden to many contractual employees like Marlon, forcing them to look for opportunities after an expired agreement between them and the company they are working for. For them, it might be anomalistic, and an abusive use of the law that might dismiss their supply of livelihood. President Rodrigo Duterte reiterated the issue of contractualization during the 3rd Presidential Debate last 2016. “We will immediately stop it. Call the Speaker and Senate President and...call mostly majority...you pass this bill immediately. I need it first week of my admin. Ganun lang,” he said. While there was a department order pertaining to this subject, Duterte’s decision to revise a new draft was a success, despite the objection from other labor groups in the country. Hence, his vote to end ‘Endo’ came to approval, and just this year, 50,000 workers have been regularized by the revised DO 174. Nonetheless, Marlon is not renewing his contract. According to him, it can exempt him from transferring company to company, branching to more jobs that can less likely subsidize his family and he is not doing it alone. “Dili mi mamirma, kay magkamali mi, mu-diretso sila’g tanggal. Luoy kaayo mi. Gukuron man mi pero naa may uban na di mamirma kay di sila kabalo unsa tong gipirmahan. Basig makasala ka, ingnig mu-asa ka muadto, mureklamo ka, naa man silay ipakita nga ebidensya nga gipirmihan nimo.” He explained.
He even said that there are contractual employees in the campus who have been working for 20 years, yet were not regularized. “Kami mga agency [workers], tanan diri, gihilom lang man pud namo na, kay ang uban diri abot nag 20 years gud, unya wala pa na-regular.” There are about 700,000 contractual workers in the Philippines, which comprises 50% of the non-regular workers. This then holds 15% of the total employment count, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). While the revised DO 174 was deemed positively, it was only a small portion of the total contractual workers. Meaning, more should be regularized and be given benefits. PSA also reported a lower unemployment rate of 5.7% and underemployment rate of 16.1% in April 2017, compared to 2016. The number of employees this year apparently fell short by almost 400,000 people from last year, and is feasibly from the practice of deceptive contractorship. The average salary of a janitor is Php 11, 754 per month, and Php 438 per day. With Marlon having less than the minimum wage of at least Php 390, he believes that it is still not enough to withstand his expenses and cannot alter on its consistent rate. Noel’s compensations and benefits as a regular employee, on the other hand, were not different as it were in the feet of ‘5-5-5’ laborers. Their expenses from hospitalization and funerals led them to be almost bankrupt, leaving Marlon and his siblings to cover up for them. Despite the adversities that he faces, his hopes were not put to rest as he wanted to be paid in a job worth his time. Every Sunday, Marlon would render extra services and drive a taxi for extra earnings. In this way, he can have an additional for the expenses. “Sa karong panahuna, pait jud kayo, pero arang-arang lang ning ing-ani. Gamay ra akong income diri, mu-sideline pud kog lain. Mangita ko ug sideline na electrical sama sa magtaod ug wire o magtaod ug suga. Usahay magdrive kog taxi kada Domingo.” Marlon said. He applied as a family driver, eager to make more money than his usual pay. Fortunately, he was chosen liable to become one. “Gwapo ma’g beneficiary ang gihatag sa akoa. Bale ang sweldo nako fixed na, unya ang mga beneficiary nako sila na’y mubayad, dili na ma-deduct didto sa among salary. Libre pa gyud kog kaon, unya naay rest day kada Domingo.” Pleased with the benefits, Marlon also said that if he gets comfortable with being a driver, he can quit working as a janitor. “Ambot lang kung magdugay ko, mag-leave lang ko ug isa ka bulan. Gwapo man ug beneficiary nga gihatag sa akoa.” Represented by janitors like Noel and his son Marlon, and other laborers who receive meager amounts of salary, poverty paves its way to a myriad of challenges that affects the society. Marlon’s hope to a prosperous lifestyle enables him to find possibilities that can soon grow with his family. Even if Endo will be terminated, it is still evident among people who labor extensively in day compensated with least that the companies have, the difficulty to achieve basic sustenance – a cycle that even had let the life of Mang Noel come to pass. With the remaining sweat Marlon has forgotten to wipe, his lips ended the story and went back to his work dragging the weight of the dustpan while on his other hand, a tight grasp of the fragile broom will again join him until another tiring day is finished.
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A mother’s tragedy of justice As the increasing records of drug-related deaths continue to thrive, stories of the victims remain to be visual images - seemingly untold and forgotten Jupiter Cabig Jr. & Rosvir Kate Flores Illustration by Patricia Mae Chi
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larita was once a mother surrounded by her seven children living at their abode until a tragic plot turned her life miserable, yet taught her to be the strongest woman. In a small area located at Bangkerohan Public Market, she places all the vegetables on her movable cart, selling them for the rest of the day. At the age of 63, she labors for subsistence after the loss of her four sons who once promised her a good life, but they vanished simultaneously after a series of unknown attacks of disguised men whom the residents believe to be members of the Davao Death Squad, a group of alleged prime suspects of vigilante and extra-judicial killings. At the height of the Duterte administration, records of extra-judicial killings as human rights advocates call it, have been overwhelmingly rising. According to the most recent count of Philippine National Police, there have been 6,225 drug-related deaths in a span of 14 months from July 2016 to September 2017. However, the said institution immediately denied the accusation with a justification that there are no clear records of extra-judicial killings except the death of Catanduanes-based journalist Larry Que which is still under thorough investigation.
Despite the obvious call from the plight of human right supporters to stop the unjustified killings, the number of drug-related deaths never failed to be a part of one’s daily dose of news from the famous Pieta shot of Raffy Lerma to the controversial juvenile deaths of Kian Loyd delos Santos and Carl Arnaiz whose names have been already inscribed on their tombs but have never experienced given any form of justice. Understanding the PH context of drug war Upon granted the highest executive position, President Rodrigo Duterte has been consistently vocal of eliminating all the drug-related activities in the country. In his previous SONA (State of the Nation Address), he emphasized that the war on drugs will be unrelenting despite any form of local or international pressure to lift it. He added that the fight against illegal drugs should continue because it is the root cause of suffering and urged the public to support him in such endeavor. A breakdown of drug-related deaths was provided by a report from Philstar which constitutes 3,850 loss of lives from legitimate police operations and 2,290 deaths under investigation. A total of 71,393 anti-drug operations have been carried out by the PNP (Philippine National Police) which resulted to the arrest of 109,090 drug offenders from July 1 to September 30 this year. This anti-narcotic campaign’s success have been celebrated by the members of the government and even the masses.
In a survey conducted by Social Weather Stations, 7 in 10 Filipinos are currently satisfied of the performance of the PNP when it comes to drug-related operations. Also, other results show that half of the Filipinos don’t believe the simple one-liner explanation of suspects fighting back; 6 of 10 Filipinos believe some killed suspects have already surrendered and alarmingly, 7 out 10 worry about being a victim of extra-judicial killings. These statistical data may present an overall assessment with regards to the current war on drugs, but some have never seized their opposition to the current mechanisms that the government uphold. Just recently, two rallies divided the country once more during the 45th anniversary of late President Marcos’ leadership and the imposition of Martial Law. A group of activists held a series of rallies across Manila to despise and blatantly criticize the government’s war on drugs and the imposition of Martial law in the entire region of Mindanao due to the injustices committed by the perpetrators such as the disregard to due process, importance of checks and balances and abuses of military powers in rural communities. In a kilometer away, on the other hand, reverberates the support of pro-Duterte citizens offering their dedicated backing through their slogans and songs with written words like “Let Change Continue” and “Change is Coming”. Furthermore, insights were given by one of the renowned researchers and sociologists in Ateneo de Davao University, Dr. Efren John Sabado, regarding the nature
“Naunsa naman ning sistema nga wala naman nagbag-o, parehas raman gihapon” of the Duterte’s critics and supporters. “We need to understand the backgrounds of these so-called human rights defenders so that we can contextualize our understanding of their different articulations. We cannot discount the fact that Duterte is still popular at this point and enjoys mass support. Personally, I support the aggressive moves of the administration against the drug problem because this has been a long-standing problem in our country, but I am against the irresponsible implementation of its mechanisms. Hence, the need to review the specifics of the mechanisms,” he said. Moreover, Dr. Sabado added that each administration has a different way of realizing their platforms and ideologies and it is not fair to generalize that the mistake of a particular agency equates with the
failure of the entire government. “Each administration puts a premium on specific platforms of government and ideologies, and Duterte was elected as president because the majority believed his values and visions for our country. His resounding victory is something that we cannot question. Logically, we need to make the irresponsible persons accountable for their reckless acts, but the act of a single policeman or the faults of a police station do not represent this administration. It is too illogical, again, to automatically point the blame to the president because we have irresponsible civil servants. Did we automatically blame PNoy for the explosive PDAF scam even though some of his cohorts committed it?” he expressed. Also, he emphasized that the citizens need to embody a holistic understanding of the ongoing drug war including those aspects of drug problem that goes beyond the scope of government-sanctioned operations to understand the “senseless” killings. Also, he said that every individual must question if the PNP really commits the killings based on any empirical grounding or evidence to avoid creating automatic judgments from misconceptions. When asked about the importance of the role of the masses and other institutions with regards to their participation in issues that af-
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fect the greater society, Dr. Sabado stated: “We need a critical mass of Filipinos who understand context-based governance such as what the current administration has been doing. Context-based governance is doing real or tangible actions to address real problems. Context-based governance goes beyond lip-service. It is results as well as action oriented. If the information is relayed accurately to Filipinos through responsible instead of value-laden journalism and media, this will help a lot in cultivating that sense of vigilance among the citizenry. Also, academic institutions play essential roles in inclusively educating the public about pressing social issues of the times. A mother in the midst of war There are few things that Clarita Alia, who was once featured in local and national news, when recounting make her cry: Mother’s day, her birthday and those random days when she stares at the frame of her lost sons. She can never forget the days when her sons will go out to seek for any sidejobs just to make sure that there is at least a portion of meat, pancit and juice to be served on the table during her birthday. While fixing herself for the interview, she humbly requested for something: she cannot promise not to cry. Upon saying those sweet words, she fulfilled what she just
said and her sobs officially started the exchange. She started with the usual mother narrative. Reminiscing all those great days when she never regretted her motherhood. “Gagmay pa sila ato, ako najud. Pito gud na sila. Ako ra tanan nagpadako. Ako’y laba. Ako’y limpyo. Lisod man kay gagmay pa sila, alangan naman patrabahuon?” she said. Then, she abruptly shifted talking about the death of her sons. With an angst on her face, she gave a timeline of her sons’ loss which started in the year 2003, her son Bobby died followed by the deaths of her two sons a year after. She then boasted about the achievement of Bobby who is an honor student at school in Sto. Tomas. While expressing her feelings, she criticized the characteristics of some policemen who are considered as her sons’ enemies. She said that the policemen use those who have pending cases to find possible suspects like her son Bobby. According to her, when Bobby was stabbed, many people were afraid to speak because of the presence of the police. Upon my arrival, Bobby is already gone. Stares of people circled her including the policemen who shared their grins without any signs of remorse. The only thing that she can do at that moment is to exhaust all her pains through crying. She tried asking for her sons’ criminal record at the police station but the policemen insisted not to accommodate her request. “Gipangayo mana nako didto sa
ila ang mga records sa akong mga anak. Gabalik-balik nako sauna. Nasuko pa ang pulis kay ngano daw pangayuon nako? Ako siyang gipangutana nganong magbuot siya. Pero dili gyud ko tagaan ug record. Nag-away gani mi ato sa pulis. Ni-aksyon pa siyag bunot sa iyang pusil, maayo gani kay dili ko mahadlok. Gigunitan nako siya ug ana ko, ‘Sige bunot! Dili ko mahadlok mamatay ba.’ Mao tong nasuko sa akoa. Ana sya, ‘Kaning imong gibuhat sa akoa, magbantay lang jud ka ba. Kay kanang imong mga anak, akoa nuon nang isa-isahon,’’ she expressed. After giving her account regarding Bobby’s death, she talked about her loss of trust in the current system that the Philippines has. “Pareha raman gihapon ang sistema karon diri. Kanang mutan-aw ko sa TV bitaw, maluoy ko ba. Ang uban pud, nadamay lang. Katong gibaril dayun nga 13 pa. Sakit baya akong kasingkasing. Muhilak baya ko. Maka-ingon ko nga kalooy anang mga inahan uy. Naunsa naman ning sistema nga wala naman nagbag-o, parehas raman gihapon sauna,” she expressed. Moreover, she never forgets to criticize Duterte’s form of leadership which she thinks is inconsistent to what the president promises to the Filipinos. “Kanang si Duterte, maayo ra sila nagmisyon ug droga. Asay droga? Mga inosenteng tao. Napreso ang uban. Ang uban ilang gipatay. Ang mga kawatan, ilang gipatay. Pero ngano man lagi na ang anak niya, nadakpan naman na sila sau-
na pa ug droga. Karon, nadakpan napud sila sa Bureau of Customs, nganong wala man sila gipreso? Ngano wala mana sila gipatay? Dapat patyon niya! Kay kato rabang nag-presidente sya, niingon sya katong gipangutana nga unsa imong buhaton kung isa sa imong anak mahibal-an nga naga-droga? Siya mismo nag-ingon nga patyon niya. Dili na maayo ilang trabaho. Sigeg limpyo kuno sa mga tawo. Tapos sa ilang sarili, wala? Luoy intawon na. Labaw na sa mga inahan, walay laing mabuhat kundi muhilak nalang,” she bravely articulated as her tone rises. While drawing reflections from the happenings in the country, she shared her wish to God to never leave her from all the pain, hate, and problems she has encountered. The consecutive loss of her sons brought her trauma which sometimes hinder her to speak or eat because of the lack of support system from other people. The loss of justice When Clarita Alia was asked of her idea of justice, she answered with obvious disappointment from the mechanisms of the government officials and agencies. “Kung ako lang pangutan-on, na! Wala juy lami. Siguro kung mangamatay napud na sila, parehas gyud kay Marcos. Pero bisan pa guro ug maglain-lain ang presidente, tapos mga buwaya gihapon, dili jud magbag-o ang sistema. Wala gihapoy hustisya,” she said. “Ang mga tao pud karon, wala na. Kwarta ra ang ginahuna-huna.
Wala nay paki-alam sa kinabuhi sa tao. Kuyaw na kaayo karon kay bisan pag naa silay makit-an diha nga dakpon tapos gibunalan ug gikulata, ingnan pa nila ug, ‘Maayo ra kay kawatan na.’ Bisag wala pa gani kabalo sa tinood,” she immediately added. For the youth, her personal message emanates from the way she handles her children. According to her, she never leaves her children even in social affairs and events. “Para sa mga kabataan, akong matambag lang, muiwas sila sa mga grupo-grupo. Naay barkada nga buotan, pero tan-aw gani nimo nga pangit na ug impluwensya, iwas na. Pero ang ubang kabataan man pud gud, gipasagdan lang sa mga ginikanan. Sigeg pangwarta, wala na na-monitor ilang mga anak. Kay kanang mga bata man gud, nganong mulaag? Kay wala ilang mama nga dapat mualaga. Karon, ang anak hinuon, muadto sa uban, maghuna-huna nga maayo pa didto kay mas palangga sila. Kung mama man gud ka, himoon nimo ang tanan para maapil ka sa kalibutan sa imong anak bisag dako na. Kung mahimo, barkada mo. Ako sa una, kung mag-disco akong mga anak, disco pud ko ba!” she said. The truth persists that Clarita Alia is a lone mother now. In her abode, she continues to thrive with her television and dog which kept her sane amid all life’s inequities. During her resting hours, she stares at the ceiling recollecting all those days when her days seem to be complete with her family members. But, right now, the only way for her to be reminded of her children is through memories, reflecting from their pictures framed carefully to last a lifetime.
Illustration by Carlo Isiah Escarda
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A call from the future
The rising need for renewability Amid the increasing environmental concerns, AdDU steps up thru new sustainable means
Sabrina Zehender
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t present, the problem in the environment extends beyond race, religion, culture and any other barrier that seem to divide the world. The collective call to be at the pedestal of change is a prerogative to forward environmental causes and achieve the conceded goal which is survival. Amid the surge of environmental degradation and the disregard to the protection of nature, the demand for a mutual action reverberates until every climate-change denier opens his/her eyes to the dilemma that the world has been trying to fix since then. In status quo, the Philippines still heavily relies on coal, a solid form of fossil fuels. According to a 2016 online article by Daxim Lucas for Inquirer.net, the Department of Energy (DOE) mentioned “Coalfired power plants will remain a permanent fixture—despite the strong lobby against them by environmentalists and proponents of other energy sources—because these could help the Philippines rapidly meet its growing energy needs cost-efficiently.” Davao City also has its own prime source of energy at Binugao, Toril, a Php 35-billion coal-fired power plant which was formally inaugurated back in 2016. This power plant has a total capacity of 300 MW and is named Therma South Inc. (TSI), a wholly-subsidiary of the Aboitiz Power Corporation. This is just one of the numerous coal-fired power plants in the country. However, the problem with coal is that it is a non-renewable energy source, which means that it is not easily replenished by the environment. Burning coal also imparts a negative effect on the environment as it releases harmful greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide. People who live nearby coal-fired power plants also complain of the noise and the pollution that come from these infrastructures. Aside from using coal as a source of energy, many countries around the world also rely on another fossil fuel that is known as crude oil. This is the raw material in the petroleum industry. Crude oil is extracted from the Earth’s subsurface and is later treated and processed to its useful form, refined petroleum. The need for renewable energy What the humanity does not fully recognize is the existing sad reality that there will come a time when all the coal deposits and fossil fuels will be used up and the need to find other ways to provide energy for their daily needs will be of great difficulty. This is where renewable energy comes into play. Renewable energy is the term used for energy that is produced or generated from natural processes that can be easily replenished such as solar and wind energy. Aside from
relying on coal alone, energy can also be generated using geothermal energy, hydropower, and biomass. For Engr. Maria Leah de Castro, who is a Chemical and Environmental Engineer, renewable energy is the energy of the future. It is powerful, clean, and sustainable. There are also several options as to the kinds of renewable energy sources that can cater different needs, budgets, and conditions. “Each type of renewable energy carries its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on unique conditions in the community. Kailangan lang i-identify ang positive and negative impacts. Para dun sa mga negative impacts, dapat gawan ng management plan for mitigation,” she expressed. Given the environmental and energy problems in the Philippines, the people still can’t make the final conclusion that renewable energy is indeed the best missing piece in the puzzle. In the country, there are a lot of different communities that have different needs and conditions. “So, what’s best for one may not be best for others. Kailangan i-assess talaga ang needs ng bawat community to know what would work and what would not work. Kailangan identify problem muna bago identify solution, not the other way around,” she added. Regenerating solutions According to the DOE, “The development and optimal use of the country’s renewable energy resources is central to the Philippine’s sustainable energy agenda. Renewable energy is an essential part of the country’s low emissions development strategy and is vital to addressing the challenges of climate change, energy security, and access to energy.” In line with Republic Act 9513, the National Renewable Energy Program (NREP) lays down the different policies that need to be followed in order for the country to achieve the goals that were established in the Renewable Energy Act of 2008. This includes the foundations for the development of the country’s RE resources, the investments that need to be directed towards the RE sector, and the construction of the different RE infrastructures, among others. As it was mentioned on their web page, the NREP aims to increase the REbased capacity of the country to an estimated 15,304 MW by 2030, which is three time the level back in 2010. Aside from that, they also aim to increase the capacity of the country’s geothermal, hydropower, and wind power resources by 2030. Call to action As of now, the School of Engineering and Architecture (SEA) and the Center for Renewable Energy and Appropriate Technologies (CREATE) is hosting an innovation challenge that is called
Solar panels installed at the rooftop of the Community Center to provide an alternative source of energy for the campus. Photo by Julien Jame Apale
EAnnovate. Its main goal is to call together student teams that will be composed of 2-5 student members who will be guided by faculty advisers to develop renewable energy solutions for identified communities. As Engr. de Castro explains, the output of the said challenge may or may not be used by SEA students as their Undergraduate Thesis. The five teams with the best proposals will be given Research Assistance Funds which will amount to Php 30,000.00 in order for them to proceed with the development of their renewable energy solutions. Engr. de Castro further explains that this kind of competition was introduced for the promotion, development, and deployment of renewable energy solutions through various individual and collaborative efforts by SEA faculty, staff, and students. Aside from that, the challenge also wants to broaden the students’ awareness of Climate Change and Climate Action, as well as their knowledge on environmental protection and sustainable engineering. “Hopefully, we can have this annually. For now, the challenge is open for this school year,” she said. Christian Mark Labiano, the External Affairs Head of the Ecoteneo Student Unit implores the students to be aware of the present sources of our energy. He upholds that students and environmentalists alike can also raise awareness to the other students about the harmful effects of coal-fired power plants to the environment and to human health. He furthers, “It is important to note that most calamities that occur nowadays are triggered by man-made activities such as large emissions of greenhouse gases
such as methane.” He continues sharing that since our country is still considered a developing one, we would need a lot of energy to power our industries for us to keep up with the global demands. Despite the fact that a big portion of the country’s energy comes from hydropower, the nation is still largely dependent on coal and oil. One of the reasons for this is because setting up renewable energy solutions need a high starting capital, which discourages many investors. Capital costs for wind turbine farms, geothermal plants, hydropower plants, and the like can cost investors up to millions of money. “With these, in my opinion, renewable energy is not yet the best solution to our energy problems but its production should be complemented and expanded. While we continue to use non-renewable energy sources, we have to patronize the use of renewable energy sources until such time that it will dominate and outrank the former,” he expressed. Labiano adds that for students like him, the least that can be done is to conserve the use of energy. He illustrates that when one’s phone is fully charged, it would be best to unplug it from the electrical socket right away. Also, one should take the initiative to turn off the lights and the air conditioner in the classroom after one’s class if no one will use it right after. As for Ruel Arila Jr., a Fourth Year BS Chemical Engineering student, renewable energy is the key for humanity’s continued existence on this planet. He strongly supports the development and research of renewable energy in
the Philippines, especially with the country’s geothermal potential. Still, not enough focus is given to these renewable energy sources. “Electrical bills are one of the major expenses of the Filipino household, and with continuously rising oil prices, investments in geothermal energy could reduce another burden of the Filipino people,” he stated. Arila upholds that in addition to that, it is an important step to increase the nation’s awareness as to the urgency of our need for renewable energy. It is only by equipping the people with knowledge that we can really force those in power to do something for our environments and the energy situation. The journey ahead David Suzuki once said “Just as fossil fuels from conventional sources are finite and are becoming depleted, those from difficult sources will also run out. If we put all our energy and resources into continued fossil fuel extraction, we will have lost an opportunity to have invested in renewable energy.” The journey towards the use of renewable energy sources is a matter that concerns everyone. The basic truth is that the environment, in no way, needs humans to survive since it will be able to thrive well on its own. On the other hand, people greatly depend on the environment in order for their day to day needs to be sustained. With that, it is vital that humans will know how to use the available sources responsibly and carefully in order to sustain and nourish the lives of the present and future generations.
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F E A T U R E S AT E N E WS Yves Mathieu Africa & Aliyah Jeande Muta
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he conservation of Philippine culture and arts continues to be an ongoing crusade and the recognition of the people behind these masterpieces, more so. The country always had a rich way of living with diverse inhabitants that have a lot of stories to tell – stories of strength, bravery, beauty, and grief. One of the dwellers that further this abundance are the Indigenous People. One of these are the Butbut people who hail from the Northern part of the Philippines. Theirs is the art that the goes beyond mere paper and colors - their bodies are their own canvass. The Butbut people’s body art make them distinct. Their tattoos are sacred and bear meanings with every ink blot. Their skin is the testament to their life experiences, from warriors who come back from war to women’s coming-of-age. However, these tattoos, which are historically symbolic have become mere markings of painful strokes. Tourists from all over the world have been coming to Buscalan, Kalinga to get inked by the renowned Apo Whang-Od. Filipinos have proven to be very protective of the arts and culture of the country and has also become very careful observers of the socio-political issues that surround the IPs. When they are not shouting on the streets, they take their rage and disappointment to social media and encourage discourse through threads and posts. Then again, these online posts oftentimes only tell one side of the story.
Whang-Od and the sensitive Philippine culture Despite the existing laws to safeguard the rights of the Indigenous Peoples, the stuggle for proper recognition still persists
Whang-Od at Manila FAME stirs discourse Apo Whang-Od’s – Buscalan’s oldest and last Mambabatok (tattoo artist) of her generation – appearance at Manila FAME has sparked discussions on her ‘exploitation’. Netizens took their anger and dismay on social media regarding WhangOd’s blatant ‘exploitation’ at Manila FAME, a trade show on culture, brands, and designs organized by The Department of Trade and Industry’s Center for International Trade Exposition & Missions (CITEM). Photos of Whang-Od with her head down, and looking exhausted surfaced on the internet and elicited a lot of negative feedback and comments from both Facebook and Twitter users. Netizens thought it was “inhumane” for the 100-year-old mambabatok to tattoo several number of people in just a span of a few days and slammed Manila FAME for using Whang-Od for profit with no regard for her culture and art. However, Manila FAME refuted claims that they exploited Whang-od and her family has also urged the public to stop the negative comments against the organizers of Manila FAME. Grace Palicas, Whang-Od’s grandniece said, “Gusto niya talaga na siya. Ang masasabi ko lang, sana nandoon sila sa event para alam nila. Hindi tayo sana mapanghusga.” Palicas also contested allegations that Whang-Od was “overworked” due to the number of people who wanted a tattoo. She said that it was Whang-Od’s choice to tattoo as many people as she can since she was already in Manila. Moreover, it was not to true that the centenarian tattooed 300 people in just a few days, she confirmed as she was the one keeping count of the people, that Whang-Od only tattooed around 120 people. Also, the viral photo of Whang-od
Illustration by Samantha Yap
with her head down was not because she was exhausted but because the questions during the sessions bored her and the camera flashes hurt her eyes. The rest of the tattooing were done by Palicas and another family member, Elyang. Clayton Tugonon, DTICITEM’s executive director said that the main reason WhangOd was in the event was to help her get the GAMABA (Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan) Award or The National Living Treasures Award and not to exploit her at all. Nonetheless, the criticisms continued. Whang-od’s exposure to an audience different from her culture in Kalinga gave her a memorable stay. The people in the trade fair were fortunate enough to have a tattoo session with the centennial tattoo artist as she was honored at the same time, although a lot of issues were brought. One of which is the setting to which she and her company can perform the art. “Although nagbigay siya ng consent, sana sa magandang lugar naman siya pinagtattoo at sana hindi sa display para mapreserve ‘yung energy niya,” said her nephew Jayvee Sabawil in an interview with Rappler. However, there was a signed contract between the parties. Whang-od and her niece, agreed to a two-day live tattooing in the fair which subsequently dilutes the issue being
withdrawn in that duration. The problem was not the permission of her art; but rather it was caused by a seemingly explicit act of disrespect for the centennial. Apo Whang-od agreed to do the tattooing, but not to the extent of waning to ethical concerns, specifically her strength in doing such art in a long duration to a lot of people. Being held in a prime location, her comfort in making her art catered a lot of people in queue. Also, she had to decide what tattoo she should give to each person. Sabawil further mentioned that even an hour of tattooing would wear Whangod down, in spite of her age. Exploitation or not? It may look like a way of mistreatment to her talent as a tattoo artist, but the purpose of Manila FAME was to let the Filipinos recognize her through an endorsement as a nominee to the National Living Treasure Awards. This was to uphold and nurture the excellence of skillful Filipino artists like WhangOd, whose talent can never be dulled by old age. Jesus Montajes, the Director for Culture and Arts and Moderator of Ateneo Sidlak Performing Arts Collective agreed that Whang-od was not exploited at all. He emphasized the importance of consent from Whang-
Od and making sure that her culture was still intact. He also said that no cultural misappropriation took place since Manila FAME made all the necessary consultations from different sectors. “She wants to share her talent in tattooing in Manila. Period. That’s it. It was her own volition and decision.” Mr. Montajes added. Seeing the confluence of cultures from the view of Apo Whang-od, her family, and the people who invited and went to meet her made relevance in the context of the Filipino heritage as one. Even if her visit made negative perceptions from the people who were not present in the fair, their sympathy towards her was evident enough to subdue social conflicts that are sensitive in the country. Nonetheless, her visit in Manila became prosperous. Not only had she met Coco Martin as per request, but also, became engaged to the culture outside her home in Tinglayan, Kalinga. She was really happy, according to her relative, when she got the experience of the city life and people of Manila. A collective endeavor beyond the web Culture is everywhere. It encompasses religion, social habits, language, forms of art, and so much more that gives character to a certain community.
Whang-od, as an example, represents ethnicity of her tribe. Her talent as a Mambabatok is an artistic custom that became constantly significant. It has also bundled influences with the present society, alongside Manila FAME and the abrupt observations from social media. What is longing, in the aspect of cultural sensitivity, is the divergence of misconceptions that can be taken blandly from depicted photos and news shown in online posts and articles. These could have been made more important with the profound knowledge on the outlook towards cultures and not just on online posts with the most number of engagement. Filipinos’ awareness of issues affecting the IPs are indeed very remarkable and timely. It shows that a good lot of Filipinos have not fallen into apathy and indifference. Ultimately, netizens may appreciate, follow, and even defend the IPs – their art, their enigmatic rituals, the way they weave their dreams into textiles, or like Whang-Od, the tattoos. But when will these heroic twitter threads and facebook posts take us to their real struggles and problems? What is understanding if not immersing into their lives and be firsthand witnesses of their battles?
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Photo by Loraine Rubi
Breaking the AdDU branding of privilege The expanding misconceptions of outsiders about Ateneans have created further divide. But, who is really an Atenean? Aliyah Jeande Muta
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t is no The Blue Eagle or the Blue Ego, as they like to say. Perhaps what separates Ateneans from the others is the distinct conyo they speak, the faint clanking of their car keys as they walk pass by you, the Starbucks cup in one hand, and the latest iPhone on the other. One cannot deny the fact that Ateneans have always been branded as The Rich Kids and being an Atenean have always been equated with being wealthy. Being an Atenean is not conventionally synonymous with humility. They always fall on categories that are for the well-to-do and although such stereotypes are not necessarily untrue for the majority, there are far more profound things that make up an Atenean aside from money. Ateneans in the eyes of others Ateneans have always had this perceived status in all social circles. They have always been subjects of jokes, such as “Uy, taga Areneyow oh!” or “Ayy basta naa’y braces taga Ateneo na!” or even the famous meaning for the acronym ADDU which apparently stands for “Ang Dili Dato, Undang.” Gerald Muta, a Mechanical Engineering graduate from University of Mindanao says that whenever he sees Ateneans, one word comes to his mind, sosyalon. “First, kay mahal jud kaayo ang tuition sa Ateneo. Second, kapag makakita ko ug taga-Ateneo kay ang gadget na dala kay pang RK jud.” Ateneans have always had these negative attachments burdened upon them and these attachments have always been mostly about their regarded financial advantage over others. Being perceived to have something more in a society that divides people based on social classes entails a greater kind of responsibility. People may dismiss
you as self-entitled not because they know you but solely because you have more. Jannikka Mae Gamale, a fourth year Psychology Student from the Holy Cross of Davao adds that she sees Ateneans as hanginon. “Kuan, kanang siguro the way mu-act ang isa ka student na taga-Ateneo. Example, kapag naa’y event or unsa ba nga naa sa AdDU kay kanang ipagmalaki gud dayun na kuyaw lagi jud daw basta gikan Ateneo. Kumbaga murag the way sila mu-asta kay wala gyud makalupig sa AdDU. Siguro, the way they act kay maoy mapansin dayon kay sobrahan sila usahay.” Being called an “Atenean” boosts the ego and inflates the pride, most of the time, for the wrong reasons. That is probably the danger that comes with being seen to have much more because sometimes, it fuels Blue Eagles to fly too high. One of the labels and probably the most common one against Ateneans is being described as Conyo. Conyo, known in Davao as the mixture of spoken English, Filipino, and Bisaya is a common language used among Ateneans. Because of this, Conyo has become regarded as the language of the privileged. While not everyone speaks this certain way, a lot of people are quick to generalize. This leads other students from other schools to be intimidated by Ateneans. Renz Arduo, a fourth year Finance student from University of Mindanao said that he gets intimidated by his classmates who are transferees from Ateneo and adds that this is so because he feels like he is not on the same level as them. These are the generalizations that have been constructed out of prejudice against those born with any form of privilege and advantage and these stem from the culture of classism that have so permeated our society.
What they don’t know A quick walk around the school can really attest to the fact that maybe what they have been saying all along is right. You see students wearing designer bags, talking about going to cafes after class, or asking their professors to be excused because of family trips abroad Ateneans have always been exempted from narratives of what is deemed to be only experienced by the poor, by those who are not as wealthy. Since they are viewed as someone who does not have firsthand experience of what it feels like to have less, this leads people to think that they are apathetic of the circumstances outside their sphere. Francis Grace Difunturom, a fourth year scholar, breaks her silence about stereotypes and shares how unlike what most people see, there are those Ateneans who are not the same as the most population is perceived to be. “Dili jud tanan taga-Ateneo kay dato. Naa man dri uban na scholars, like me. Wala mi naga pa sosyal lng. Nagawork mi as a requirement sa among scholarship. Dili mi sgeg laag lang kay kailangan namu mag render ug service if naa mi vacant na time. Dili pud tanan Atenista kay naga Starbucks jud. Member ko sa daily bread community ug naa mi monthly meal stubs para makakaon ug free sa caf. Akong papa
kay farmer ug akong mama kay housewife. Dili mi dato, ug dili ko makapa-sosyal . Wala koy tigduha na iPhone, MyPhone ra akong cellphone. “ Are all Ateneans wealthy? Do they have their whole future figured out for them? Do they not know the value of hard work? Zendaly Gicain, a working scholar of Ateneo for four years now, lifts the blanket that has covered the eyes of the public for so long. “Dili man, dili gyud! Ako, isa ko ka working scholar. Ug dili lalim mahimong scholar. Kailangan nako mag duty everyday for 4 hours after ana mag sulod na ug klase. Naay time na kailangan mag work ug 8 hours para mabayaran ang tuition. Dili gani ko ka afford palit ug food sa caf dati pero thanks to Daily Bread Program, mapalit na nako gusto nako na food sa caf. So, dili gyud tanan Atenista dato.” They do not come from the wealthiest of families, they do not have cars or the latest iPhone models. These scholars are the complete opposite of what an Atenean is in the eyes of the people, but they are Ateneans still.
“Kapag makakita ko ug tagaAteneo kay ang gadget na dala kay pang RK jud”
The unbeknownst Atenean culture But then there are the struggles – tuition fee increases, family problems, anxiety of the future, coping with stress – Ateneans continually share with any other regular stu-
dent from another university, but premature judgment of character based on first impressions or common notions tend to blur its truthfulness. The Atenean culture common to everyone outside may be of the culture that reeks of arrogance and privilege, but they don’t know about the “Thank you, Ate” the elevator staff receives from the students every time they get off their respective floors, the way the students clean after themselves after they eat at the cafeteria, or the way they constantly reach out to the marginalized communities through social involvements through various leadership programs and engagements. The misconceptions against Ateneans have been going on for so long that no one dares to question its truthfulness anymore. The way you look at Ateneans may take some time to change, or may never change at all, but these unnecessary divisions between Atenistas and students from other schools that have long since fostered a culture of divisiveness only hinders us from more inclusive growth. At the end of the day, no matter which school you came from or whatever stereotype you have been identified with, there are struggles and oppressions to be fought collectively. Being an Atenean goes beyond the expensive tuition fees or the towering blue buildings for one does not simply become an Atenean just by having the money to go and study there, but by having the desire and heart to embody the values the institution wants to imbue. But you know, maybe it is true, maybe privilege runs deep in every Atenean. The privilege of education, the privilege to have equal access to it no matter how rich or ill-fated one is. This is the type of privilege that will shape society, and is every Atenean’s instrument to change the world.
D I V E R S I O N S AT E N E WS
Baryo Tinyo/ Raf Maurince Tacder
Review Notes/ Dominique Francesca Costales
In Memory of Miming/ Samantha Yap
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AT E N E WS
Back Page Antics/ Maria Cyra Jane Dealca
ABANGAN... Tribute/ Dominique Francesca Costales