the official student publication of Mindanao State University General Santos City
bagwis 02
editorialboard
editor-in-chief
associate editor
managing editor circulation manager
jefferson quipit
herkurt tamba
jasmine panes
adrian joven
kimbian lim
departmentheads
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opinion editor
feature editor
sports editor
head cartoonist
layout director
photo editor
lynxter leaño
daniella doce
mia dorothy marcos
niel zsun vega
louise abing
kevin asombrado
krishtine rivera
head videographer
clarenz caballero
publicationstaff
news writers
opinion writers
feature writers
sports writers
cartoonists
layout artists
photojournalists
videographers
maria silva
herkurt tamba
jasmine joy panes
jefferson quipit
berjan pagadatan
kimbian lim
lyle jome dela madrid
sharif ryan beldia
krisczer dave david
tycoon james flores
adrian joven
katrina elises
ashley loyloy
john ross sambanan
gwyneth lubaton
krizza maningding
louise jordan
rhynchielyne melgar
miles uchi
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lourenz loregas
ian villacencio
guia rebollido
aljim kudarat
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keziah cariño
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joseph carl estrera
vaness villafuerte
ma. angelica pio
micha pancho
jezrah gamutin
jewel tapel muhamad miras
denzel jade caluyong
ylen criz balanon
john russel camia
rayjie carillo jibrylle mohammad
christian alburo
jared adlawan
alsimar ibrahim leonah fabulare pauline gaurana
ishie inocelda alithea baranda
rhysa alamada gabriel sanchez
editor’s note
Ang artikulong na: "Gimugno sa Lapok og Abog," naghatag sang madalom nga paglantaw sa mga kalisdanan kag kabudlayan sang mga estudyante sa MSU-GenSan. Bisan pa sa atong pagkaresilient kag pagka-survivor, kag bisan malipay kita sa lapok og abog, dili angay nga ikalipay lang nato ang ing-ani nga sitwasyon. Kinahanglan nga ang administrasyon mag-ayo sa atong kahimtang kag maghatag sang husto nga mga pasilidad para sa maayong pag-eskwela. Ang aton ginahandom nga ini nga artikulo mag-inspirar kag magpanawagan para sa pagbag-o.
JEFFERSON QUIPIT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
03 table of contents
COVER
EDITORIAL BOARD
EDITOR’S NOTE
TABLE OF CONTENTS ABOUT THE COVER
MAIN EDITORIAL
Bulok na Simbolismo
NEWS
Candidates for deanship advance to final phase of selection; 3 colleges face lone candidates
NEWS
MSU-GenSan’s summer classes to end on July 17; VCAA Lawas spills 1,992 grads to undergo scrutiny for ‘academic requirements completeness’
OPINION
One-Man Parade
OPINION
Dyeing Green Hue-niversity
COVER STORY
GIMUGNO SA LAPOK OG ABOG
MSULOGY
FEATURE
Empowering Inclusivity, Shaping Futures: The Center for Women’s studies at MSUGSC
FEATURE
Rise of the Rainbow Century
SPORTS
MSU-GenSan claims 5th straight MSUSAA Unity Games Title with 341 points; SDO eyes intensified training for MASTS qualifiers
on low points
about the cover
Sa paghunahuna pa lang nako sa pageskwela sa MSU, nadunggan ko na ang mga sugilanon bahin sa kalisdanan nga nagaulat kanamo. Ang mga istorya sa lapok kag abog, kainit kag kabugnaw, daw wala ko nagtuo nga tinuod. Apan samtang nagpadayon ako, nakit-an ko nga ang pagiging usa ka MSUan nagpasabot nga makaon mo ang lapok kag abog, ug mahimo ka mismo nga lapok kag abog. Kini ang buot silingon sang pagin usa ka MSUan—kami ang mga survivor.
Bulok na
Simbolismo
Lubak-lubak na daan ang sumasalubong sa bawat mag-aaral ng Pamantasang Mindanao - Lungsod ng Heneral Santos tuwing papasok at palabas sa kilalang backgate ng institusyon. Hanggang ngayon ay abala pa rin sa lahat ang hindi sementadong daanan na bukod sa mabato at hindi pantay, madalas pa itong napupuno ng pusaling nanggaling sa mga kabahayan at palagi naman itong binabaha sa konting buhos ng ulan. Subalit, imbes na bigyang pansin, atin pang sinisimbolo
ang perwisyong dulot nito – bagay na sumasalamin sa paglihis mula sa tunay na kahulugan ng pagiging MSUan.
Hindi maitatanggi na mahirap ang daanang sinusuong ng bawat estudyante tungo sa pangarap na makapagtapos. Sa literal na kahulugan, araw-araw binabagtas ng mga MSUan ang maalikabok at maalinsangang 156-ektaryang paaralan. Dagdag pa rito ang mga sangang nahuhulog mula sa mga naglalakihang puno, mga ahas na gumagala sa
mga masukal na bahagi ng paaralan, at ang hindi kaaya-ayang sitwasyon sa likurang bahagi nito. Sa usaping akademiko, bilang iskolar ng bayan, may responsibilidad ang bawat isa na makipagsabayan sa mataas na pamantayan ng mga propesor upang mapanatili ang kalidad ng pagkatuto. Kung kaya, ganoon na lamang ang pagtutulad ng karamihan sa buhay bilang MSUan at sa sitwasyon ng backgate.
Ngunit, ang simbolismong ito ay tahasang nagpapahiwatig ng
JASMINE JOY PANES
pagtanggap sa isang bagay na hindi naman dapat. Ang backgate ay nagdudulot ng disgrasya sa mga naglalakad at mga motorista, lalo na kapag umuulan, dahil nagiging madulas at mabaha ito. Sa isang panayam kay Kyla Marie Alilay, isang mag-aaral, ibinahagi niya ang kaniyang karanasan sa backgate. Ayon sa kanya, “Very hassle siya for me as a student lalo na if gatipid and plan magbaktas lang kay minsan abot ankle na ang baha and medyo risky siya daanan kay puro mud.” Sinang-ayunan naman ito ni Arianne Dominique Fegi na nagsabing, “Super hirap, lalo na kapag unexpected and ulan because walang proper drainage ang daanan. Hindi rin completely sementado ang lahat ng daan, so hindi talaga maiwasan ang magkalapok-lapok na sapatos and clothes.”
Dagdag pa, ipinahayag ni Joshua De Asis na ang matarik na bahagi ay nagdudulot ng panganib sa mga motoristang mag-aaral. Sa kaniyang salita, “Since steep ang topography sa backgate, tanan water from the upper side kaga rush pababa and didto ga-accumulate so hindi makadaan.” Ang kaparehong dahilan ay nagdulot ng pagkasemplang ni John Arquillano sa bahaging ito malapit sa ATM Machine dahil madulas ang daan at nahirapan siya sa pagpreno. Sa kaso naman ni Stephen, dito rin siya nadisgrasya sa masikip na daan at sa isang lubak na hindi niya agad napansin dahil napuno na ito ng tubig-ulan. Batay sa kanya, “May car sa harap ko na akala ko mag-diretso na siya pasok, but nag stop siya so di ko siya napansin. May pothole pud ato na time, so nakuratan ko kay murag na tagak akong abante na ligid. Pag-tan-aw nako, gamay nalang ang distance sa sakyanan so nag full stop jud ko para ‘di mabangga.”
Hindi lamang disgrasya sa daan ang nakaambang panganib, kundi ang pagbahang galing dito ay maaaring magdulot ng iba’t ibang sakit, tulad ng leptospirosis na sanhi ng bakteryang Leptospira. Ito ay nakukuha tuwing bumabaha at mayroong direktang kontak sa lupa o tubig na kontaminado ng ihi ng mga nahawang hayop, lalo na ang daga. Pati ang mga basurang naiipon at nadadala sa agos ay nagdudulot ng maalinsangang amoy na siyang pinamamahayan ng mga bakterya, virus, at mga fungi. Lingid sa kaalaman ng nakararami, ang mga mikroorganismong ito ay nagbubunga ng iba pang sakit kagaya ng kolera, hepatitis A, dengue, at malaria na siyang malaking banta sa kalusugan.
Marahil isa sa mga dahilan kung bakit tila tanggap na lang ito ng karamihan ay ang kakulangan ng permanenteng aksyon mula sa kinauukulan. Nabanggit noong nakaraan na isa itong pribadong lupain kaya hindi ito maaaring galawin ng administrasyon. Pero, hindi rin naman imposible ang pakikipag-ugnayan ng paaralan sa mga may-ari nito at sa lokal na pamahalaan ng Barangay Fatima. Sa kasalukuyan, natambakan na ng lupa ang daanang malapit sa backgate at nakapagpagawa na ng panibagong kanal ilang
metro ang layo mula rito na siyang nakapwesto sa simula ng konkretong kalsada. Gayunpaman, iginiit ni De Asis na hindi rin ito gaanong epektibo sanhi ng maliliit na butas nito na hindi kayang saluhin ang tubig-ulan at mula rito ay pababa na ang direksyon ng daan. Ang karamihan sa agos nito ay napupunta lamang pailalim sa lupang kalsada, kaya ang pagtambak ay nagmistula lamang ‘band-aid solution’ dahil kahit nabawasan nito ang pagbaha, mas nagdulot naman ito ng malalang putik na siyang nagpadagdag ng pagkadulas.
Ang mga temporaryong solusyon sa backgate ay naglalantad ng kakulangan ng pagtugon at pagkilos mula sa administrasyon, na dapat sana’y nagtataguyod ng kapakanan ng kanilang mga mag-aaral. Ipinapahiwatig ng mga usaping nabanggit na kinakailangang pagtuonan ito ng pansin, sapagkat ang panganib na dala nito sa kaligtasan at kalusugan ng bawat indibidwal ay hindi nararapat na isaalang-alang. Sa kabilang dako, hindi sapat na patuloy na lamang tayong mag-aabang; ito rin ang tamang panahon upang pakatotohanan ang ating pagiging iskolar ng bayan na ginagamit ang boses upang iparating ang suliraning ito sa kinauukulan. Dahil diyan, iminungkahi ni Arquillano, “Ang better gyud, longterm solution, which is semento. Mas okay unta if ma-construct kapag wala pa kaayo’y klase para di hassle sa students.”
Bagaman ang backgate ay maaaring sumisimbolo sa tunay na paglalakbay bilang MSUan, kung saan nagtitiyaga at nagsisikap sa kabila ng mga nakaambang balakid, ito ay taliwas sa kahusayan na isa sa mga pangunahing pinapahalagahan ng institusyon. Ating ipinagmamalaki ang mga parangal sa iba’t ibang larangan tulad ng mga mataas na passing rate at mga topnotcher kapag may board exams, ang engrandeng intramurals, at mga progresibong programa tulad ng ‘Smart MSU’, subalit mistulang hindi nabibigyang-diin ang kahalagahan ng isa sa pangunahing daan papasok at palabas ng institusyon. Kung tunay ngang kahusayan ang ating nais ipamalas, nararapat lamang na bigyang-pansin ang lahat ng aspeto, sa loob man o labas nito.
Luha, dugo, at pawis ang inalay ng lahat ng mga indibidwal na nasa likod ng tagumpay ng pamantasan upang marating ang kinalalagyan nito. Kung kaya, hindi akma ang pagkukumpara sa mga dekalidad na katangian nito sa isang palyang pahirap lamang ang dulot sa lahat. Hindi lamang ito isang pansamantalang usapin; ito ay pagsubok sa kakayahan ng administrasyong mapanatili ang kahusayang itinataguyod niyo. Sa ngayon, bawat isa sa atin ay umaasa na ang isyu ng backgate ay mabigyan ng kaukulang pansin kahit pa ito ay maihahalintulad sa ating pang-araw-araw na pamumuhay bilang MSUan. Datapwat, hanggang hindi pa permanenteng naayos ang backgate, hindi rin dapat mawala ang dangal ng bawat miyembro ng pamatasan sa pamamagitan ng pagdakila sa bulok na simbolismong ito.
Luha, dugo, at pawis ang inalay ng lahat ng mga indibidwal na nasa likod ng tagumpay ng pamantasan upang marating ang kinalagayan nito.
Candidates for deanship advance to final phase of selection; 3 colleges face lone candidates
GUIA REBOLLIDO, LOURENZ JAY LOREGAS
After the public forums and straw poll held on May 6, 7, and 9 and a closed-door panel interview last May 14, the candidates for the deanship positions of the six colleges of Mindanao State University - General Santos (MSUGenSan) have been forwarded to the office of the university chancellor to await the final decision.
In an interview with Bagwis, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (VCAA) Mishell D. Lawas, D. Eng’g, outlined the sixstep selection process for deanship candidates.
“We have [a] minimum qualification set around 6 for the minimum qualification before you can advance or proceed to the next level,” Lawas explained.
According to the VCAA, these steps were made in this year’s selection process to adhere to the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) requirements for deanship.
The process begins with a letter of intent or nomination from the college, after which qualified candidates undergo profiling, public forums, and a panel interview before advancing to review by the chancellor.
“Then eventually the chancellor will forward that to the BOR
[Board of Regents] for its election and consideration,” the VCAA said.
Candidates for Deanship
Three out of the six colleges have unopposed candidates, based on the announcement from the committee on search for deanship on April 5.
These colleges are the College of Fisheries, with Prof. Ronald P. Sombero as the sole candidate; the College of Business Administration and Accountancy, with Prof. Czarina S. Saikol; and the College of Social Sciences and Humanities, with Prof. Mario J. Aguja, Ph.D.
Moreover, the remaining colleges have multiple candidates: the College of Education has Diane Mae Ulanday-Lozano, Ph.D., and Salome F. Sestina, Ph.D.; the College of Agriculture has Keno Jay Balogbog, Ph.D., Donna Ria J. Canacan, Ph.D., and Jane S. Malasador, Ph.D.; and the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics has Jay D. Buscano, Ph.D., and Remedios S. Flamiano, Ph.D.
When asked about candidates for the College of Engineering (COE), which was not included in the
photo by John Rusell Camia
announcement for the public forums, Lawas clarified that the college will also hold its deanship election this year and already has candidates, but some qualifications still need to be reviewed.
“We still have to process and we still have to consider some of the qualifications, especially for the query and the recommendation reached to the office from one of the candidates,” she explained.
Notably, an open forum held on June 13 at MSU-GenSan AVR Library for the College of Engineering (COE) revealed that two candidates will be vying for the position of dean of the said college.
Amendments to the Resolution
According to the VCAA, the BOR utilized the amended resolution BOR Number 129, Series of 2023 in addressing and in the entire process for deanship this year.
“We just amended [and] strengthened some of the provisions in the previous BOR, which we used actually several decades ago,”
These amendments include the inclusion of students in the selection process, where a Special Order (SO) was created by the chancellor to member the selection body.
“All of the sectors in the institution is actually part [of it], [including] the student region,”
Lawas also highlighted that other members include the faculty union representative, staff, and senior faculty, which is chaired by the VCAA and other vice chancellors.
The VCAA also explained that the board has put an emphasis on managerial and supervisory experience.
“We do not allow to be nominated [those] which is not tenured and at least assistant professor level and up. And of course, the minimum qualification is always PhD as much as possible,” the vice chancellor affirmed.
The official announcement of the new deans is expected in the last week of June, with their terms officially starting after the expiration of the current deans’ Special Orders in July.
MSU-GenSan’s summer classes to end on July 17; VCAA Lawas spills 1,992 grads to undergo scrutiny for ‘academic requirements completeness’
LYNXTER GYBRIEL LEAÑO
Covering a total of six weeks, MSU-General Santos City’s summer classes started last June 10 and are expected to last until July 17 in order to comply with the required 54 hours for a single subject for students who either need to retake a subject or to complete it based on their course syllabus.
“Every day, we have two hours of class in three units of enrolled subject, so 10 hours per week ang e-render. Kaya may 6 weeks tayo,” Dr. Mishell Lawas, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs (VCAA), stated.
She emphasized that they prioritize graduating students who need to undergo summer classes and those who failed their subjects during the second semester to ensure regular student status for the next academic year.
“This is a good opportunity for students to continue their education this summer and to catch up with missed subjects and second-time subjects,” VCAA said.
When asked about their sentiments, MSUans expressed that although it made them tired, they still had fun taking summer classes at the university.
“It was really challenging to cope with the subject, noh, na for actually one semester talaga tinetake, everyday was a challenge to attend the class,” Johanna Marie Nantes, an incoming 3rd year BEED student, revealed.
Despite this, Nantes emphasized that she learned effectively with the help of her professors who distributed assignments and activities in a way that allowed them to cope with their lessons.
Rockzel B. Bautista, 2nd Year BEED
ELGEN-A, disclosed that although they struggled to keep up with several lessons that are fused in just a month of class, they were able to learn and adjust to their current situation.
Gradwaiting
On the other hand, with the graduation rites fast approaching, VCAA Lawas shared that an initial list of 1,992 graduates subject to review if they are complete with their academic requirements.
Before the commencement exercise, precommencement exercises will be held per college from June 27 to July 3, 2024.
“Per college is allocated half-day for their pre-com, then each of the colleges have prepared each guest speaker, so mas matindi ‘yung experience mo doon sa precom,” she said.
The VCAA also highlighted that Secretary Carlito G. Galvez Jr. from the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity (OPAPRU), will be the commencement guest speaker.
According to Lawas, MSU-General Santos and the said office have a strong partnership intended to further strengthen peace within the university.
“We see to it that this event will be memorable for the students and families, and possibly we will honor the hard work and achievements of our graduates,” she affirmed.
Meanwhile, graduating students expressed their struggles with the compliance of
all requirements, especially fees and the conclusion of their theses.
Richmar Agum, a graduating student from BS Electronics Engineering, emphasized how settling fees was particularly challenging for financially struggling students.
“Besides ensuring that all subjects were passed without any incomplete (INC) grades, we had to settle various fees, including the Senior Class Fee, Alumni Membership and ID, and Toga Rental Fee,” he said.
According to Agum, the process involves multiple back-and-forth visits to different buildings to get their graduation application forms signed.
For Kyle Romano, a student from Bachelor of Arts in English Language Studies (BAELS), chasing their panel members for routing and signing of approval sheets were few of the many challenges before their thesis, a major requirement for all MSUans to graduate and a key to departing from university, can be hardbound and passed.
Despite all of these hurdles, many graduating students are glad to have the chance to march their way to the graduation ceremony, like Princess Joanha Isla, who is happy and blessed knowing that her sacrifices will be recognized in the upcoming commencement exercise.
According to the VCAA, MSU-General Santos’s 45th commencement exercises will take place on July 5 at the University Quadrangle at 3 in the afternoon.
DATA GATHERERS: MARIYA NICOLE SILVA, IAN PAOLO VILLACENCIO
CHECKED BY: GUIA REBOLLIDO
Students who took summer classes concentratedly answered the tests given to them to measure their knowledge in their respective subject
photo by Katrina Elises
One-Man Parade
Mindanao State University - General Santos City (MSU - GSC), abundant as it is with illustrious graduating students deserving of recognition from excellence in their respective fields, answers its students’ years of effort and representation of their Alma Mater by making their universitywide distinction awards slots scarce, where only one student per category gets to be recognized. Between rightfully honoring all or none, MSUGSC would rather underwhelmingly underrepresent its distinction of all its graduates and only choose a sole student to each walk their one-man parade.
MSU-GSC with its distinction awards is unlike any other educational institutions or any other major awarding events; its protocols and slots are more stringent than even the Oscars or Academy Awards of Merit, where merely being a nominee is enough to be a great honor. Even until this year, the graduating batch shall bring testament to the fact that only a few, or only one student per university distinction award, to be exact, shall be recognized from each of their respective fields.i
With university-wide distinction awards being the one of the university’s three levels of distinction awards, alongside department and college distinction awards, the exclusivity that is being brought upon university-wide awards sacrifices the fact that many other students, in varying magnitudes, are deserving of recognition at the end of their programs as well.
The achievements of one student do not undermine another’s. To cultivate a culture of competition even as students are about to graduate only leaves a bitter conclusion to the years graduating students have spent so far putting in the grueling work that comes with being an ‘MSUan’ alongside
garnering achievements in the name of MSU-GSC that should have already qualified them for recognition.
In addition, the latest distinction awards application system MSUGSC has is faulty in of itself; the latest system of self-application by students emailing and interviewing, having to painstakingly convince the administration, awards committee of what they have done during their career as a student and a representative of their university tells a lot of how little care was given before the time came for students to rehash all their achievements. In a way, it is as if graduating students have to be borderline begging for acknowledgement, like neglected children would with detached and apathetic parents.
Granted, there are a lot of external MSU-GSC student representation and accolades to be watched and kept track of. The fact alone, however, that there are a lot of achievements to be kept track of for every graduating batch, then and now, is enough to highlight the dues of greatly-deserved acknowledgement and the lackluster response to the numerous achievers years. the university has seen through the years.
As things are currently going with the university’s university-level distinction awards, especially with its penchant for having its students conclude educational journeys with a rushed retelling of their unnoticed achievements, gives way to a one-person recognition where all the announced awards and representations barely scratch the surface of what MSU-GSC has gotten in exchange from its students.
Though university-level distinction awards aren’t the ‘end all and be-all’ for graduates’ education, what the
unwarranted strictness of the latter distinction awards in MSU-GSC reflects is the importance with which the university views its constituents: in the end, only one student who so happened to outperform all the others even by one competition or interview answer shall matter, all their other merits be damned.
The status quo of the university only
keeping one distinction awardee per category, rather than preserving a sense of exclusivity with its onestudent protocols, only lays bare the glaring notion that all other students’ four years’ worth (or more) of bringing honor and prestige to MSU-GSC in all kinds of manners are trampled upon, either by ignorance or by
impassiveness. The university has a choice to actively keep watch and give due acknowledgement and salvage the prestige of distinction awards in graduation rites by at least showing how many more have vied for and are deserving for the acclamation, or it can continue to whittle down what once was a meaningful commendation in favor of keeping to its one-man parades on the graduation stage.
Dyeing Green Hueniversity
ALJIM KUDARAT
The Supreme Student Council (SSC), as the highest student governing body, bears the right to impose policies on a university, and those policies will only appear conducive to every constituent if the administration is in full support of the SSC’s plans. In the context of Mindanao State University-General Santos City (MSU-GSC), however, the incoming SSC officers plan to paint a ‘green university’, while the administration’s response to countless environmental issues in the university left none but a taint of no green. The plan for SSC has already been pitched and thought out, but an impediment to its full functionality arose as they were now likely to hit a brick wall.
Indisputably, both the administration and the SSC thrive to provide MSUans with the service they deserve. From the admin’s initiatives to transition to ‘SMART MSU’, rolling out a ‘SMART University’ platform, to the proposal of SSC to bridge the gap between MSUans and environmental consciousness. What this SMART MSU alludes to is the optimum utility of the Php 998,988,268.50 fund for the materialization of 117 access points, 70 closed-circuit televisions (CCTVs), a massive e-library rehaul, and a lot more lucrative projects to solidify its commitment to their students and show support for development. And the incoming SSC officers for the academic year 2024-2025 will push for a ‘green university’, which means the university will commit to a plastic-free campus.
As we shift, however, the administration seems to have forgotten to check the viability of ‘SMART MSU’ in favor of our current state, specifically the standing of MSU-GSC when it comes to its take on environmental issues. If transitioning to a ‘smart university’ refers to leaving our campus subject to a scarcity of support for a ‘green university’, then one could say we have almost transitioned. Albeit it is understandably right to say that the endeavor of the admin and the plan of SSC have different stories to tell, what lies on their same plot is when the motion of Green University is included in the disposition of SMART MSU upon its realization.
At this juncture, the devised plan for a green university, the SSC for MSU, enters the podium. The Alliance of Students for Alternative Politics (ASAP) party, the sole party that ran for SSC elections and was declared a winner, proposed to students their green university agenda: “We will create more seminars or educational discussions regarding environmentalism. We will invite talagang maalam na mga speaker na talagang merong track record on how to penetrate communities in order for those communities to be environmentally responsive,” Angela Torbolento stressed out during the SSC Miting De Avance in an article published by Bagwis, the university’s official student publication. If and only if this plan takes place on campus with the support of the administration extended to its implementation, then there is no doubt about its success.
The call of the SSC was such that many university constituents were left without sufficient awareness of environmental degradation happening inside and outside of the campus. Leonard Tucjayao, the incoming SSC President, even asserted that the lack of seminars and actions regarding environmental conservation serve as a reference for them to push for a green university. Additionally, Tucjayao clarified in a Facebook post that despite them pushing for a green university for MSU-GSC, it will come with certain reservations. “Pushing for a green university means that we have to fully commit to a plastic-free institution, but the stakeholders aside from the students such as the community of small-scale stall owners inside the campus cannot afford such a policy,” he posted.
While it is good to think that the student body will soon be equipped with significant knowledge on environmental affairs, the administration should have done its part in reinforcing students with policies pertaining to environmental relations firsthand, not that now our milieu on campus gets worsened as days go by. For the record, our university lacks a proper waste management system, enough trash bins for students, and
garbage truck collectors roaming around.
Moreover, the recent announcement of the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) worsened the agony of student leaders as they refused to take accountability regarding these matters and directly passed it on to student organizations during the hosting of MSUSAA. Clearly, the demands of SSC for a ‘green university’ prove not only the administration’s faulty measures on hearing students’ complaints but also its deliberate take on advancing forward to a smart university that only shows up on papers, less in practice.
The undertaking of SSC is no less important than any other we have undertaken, but this time the admin should have taken the initiatives even before its presentation, so that the
students might have already benefited, which frames their common goal: to transition this university into something good, something that is more justifiable. In the very first place, the administration’s SMART MSU would actually be more beneficial if actions for the environment of the university were integrated; this includes a budget poured into the distribution of large trashbins in every college, its sustainability through consistent checkups from garbage truck collectors, and regularized policies and programs toward solid waste management. For now, the plan of SSC might stand on its own, since at the moment, the admin is passive when we stipulate what is good, but then it is the discretion of the administration
whether or not they will support the move of SSC once it is presented before them.
To count, MSU-GenSan has been striving for 50 years and counting, and may it not be that another 50 years are added yet we only progress based on the perception of the admin. Here comes the role of student organizations: to call them out of their boxes by rendering them what is best for the students. We are not yet ready for a ‘green university’ if we could just assess our status quo, and pushing for it while having an indifferent administration will take time and surely face obstruction from resources to feasibility. Nevertheless, the plan of SSC has been pitched and thought out, but only then will it not hit a brick wall when the administration progresses the way we want it to.
Sa paghunahuna ko sa pag-eskwela sa MSU, nahinumdom ko sa mga kahadlok nga sugilanon bahin sa unibersidad nga ni. Nga ang eskwelahan nga kini kay mura ba og kinawboy. Nga ang pagtuon sa niini nga unibersidad nagkinahanglan og lig-on ug kusgan nga mga lapa-lapa ug bagtak. Kailangan makalakaw ka ug halos usa ka kilometro nga gilay-on gikan sa unang building sa imo subject ngadto sa lain.
Sa sinugdan, wala gyud ko tinud-anay nga nahadlok sa akong kaugalingon nga high school sa mga pagpanghadlok nga akong mabatian. Sa social media lang ug sa telebisyon ko makita ang gihimaya nga imahe sa MSU—ang mga prestihiyosong mga awards nga nadawat, ang mga topnotchers nga ilang namugno, ang mga intelihenteng nagradwar nga may Latin honors, ug ang himaya nga nalangkit sa pangalan nga MSU-GenSan.
Pero, nahimong gubat sa pagpaabot batok sa kamatuoran para sa akon. Nahinumdom ko sa akong unang sakay sa jeepney padulong sa akong face-to-face nga mga klase sa Uhaw, Fatima. Sa pagtikang ko sa abog nga yuta sa mainit kaayong panahon sa Agosto, nabatyagan ko nga ang pangalan nga ‘Uhaw’ tinud-anay nga nagtupong sa iyang kahulugan—ang kainit dili matag-an, daw ako ba kay gi-uhaw jud.
Ang pag-il nga ini nga unibersidad dili usa ka intelektwal nga bisyonaryo kundi usa ka pagsulay, natak-om sa akon sa dihang ang akong puti nga sapatos nahimong abo sa wala pa gani ko nakaabot sa akong unang klase sa GEC102 sa CAS building. Ang abog nga wala’y pasaylo sa dalan sa CSSH isa ka masakit nga pagpaila sa mga kamatuoran sa kinabuhi sa kampus nga murag balay sa balas.
Apan inig maluoy ang langit ug muulan, ang balas na musupak sa pagpalangga nako sa akong sapatos kay mahimo na hinuon og lapok. Kada lakang nako, malubong ang akong tiil sa dili mapasaylo na kumunoy. Akong puti na tsinelas nahimo na hinuon og itom.
Wa ko nidahum na mutngha diay ko og yabok ug lutak diri sa MSU.
NIKAON OG LAPOK UG ABOG
Dili man pareho-pareho atoang kasinatian— sa iban kay napaboran ang panahon, pero sa iban nabatyagan nila ang kalisdanan. Bisan pa sa amon nga lain-lain nga istorya,
dala namon ang pagtilaw sa abog kag lapok sa tibuok namon pag-eskwela. Lapok nga amoang naagihan dili lang tungod sa baha sa dalan, kundi sa lapok nga magpilit sa amon nga lapa-lapa. Magpahinay sa amon paglakaw, kag magpalangan sa dapat unta nga kauswagan. Kag ang abog nga sentro sa sugilanon sa mga MSUan—abog nga magpabilin nga parte sa amon pagkatawo diri sa MSU-Gensan.
Kabahin na gid siguro sa amon adlawadlaw nga pakigbugno ang kulang nga mga pasilidad kag gamit sa pag-eskwela; ang electric fan sa GEMMA, ang kangitngit sa H building, ang kulang nga mga bangko, kag labi na ang klase nga daw university tour kay layo kaayo. Dili man naton mapilit nga unta pareho ta sa iban nga pribadong mga kolehiyo, nga may kompleto nga pasilidad kag mga gamit, may maayong dalan nga dili buslot kag dili nagalawa ang atop, kag ISO certified nga sistema sa pagproseso. Busa padayon gihapon ang panawagan sa mga estudyante para sa pagbag-o kag paglambo nga para sa tanan. Luyo sa amon kahimtang, kami nagpabilin nga kusgan bisan sa init o sa ulan. Sa akong madunggan, tungod sa amon nga nasinatian, mailhan kag maingon nga kami taga-MSU, kung asa may kabaskog kag kamaayuhan. Tingali, diin man ka makaadto, may MSUan. Kay samtang ara pa sila sa eskwelahan, ilakip sa ila dugo ang abog kag lapok nga hasta subong mao ang nagahimo sa amon bilang isa ka MSUan. Ini nagapakita lang nga dili basta-basta ang amon ginagihan, kay sumala pa nila kita nakaagi na sa tanan nga kalisdanan, sa akademik man o sa baha sa dalan likod sang MSU-Gensan.
DILI IKALIPAY ANG LAPOK UG ABOG
Isa ka hulagway ang akoang naamgohan, ang dagway sa mga estudyante na mupila sa Y―ang kasingot, kahago sa pila, ug ang kahadlok na basig makasab-an. Dili ka MSUan, kung wala nimo ni naagihan. Tatak na sa nilabay na panahon. Makapaluya man pero mao ang kamatuoran kung musulod ka sa kining eskwelahan. Bisan pa niana, dili pud nato unta kalimtan nga tungod kita MSUan pasagdaan na lang ang kahimtang sa atoang unibersidad. Na kung unsa man ang pagsulay sa niaging panahon―ilabi na sa kulang na pasilidad, lisud nga sistema, ug kabos nga suporta―unta kini masolusyonan ug dili lang kay magpabilin nga plano hantud sa kahangturan. Isipon nato ang oportunidad na unta natagamtaman sang
mga estudyante kung naay maayo nga mga classroom, materyales sa mga pasilidad, ug maayo nga sistema. Isa sa akoang nahunahunaan, dili kay libre atoang pag-eskwela, mouyon na lang ta kung unsa ang naa. Kung nakaya sa usa ka MSUan magpadayon ug makatungha sa lapok ug abog, unta sa atoang administrasiyon mao man. Isipa na lang kung unsa na kahimayaon ang maabot sa mga MSUan kung dili ta mamalakpak ang tanan kung mukaon ta og yab-ok ug balas - isipa kung unsa pa kaha ka mauswagon ang pagtaas sa isa ka MSUan kung naa tay sakto na pasilidad para mamugno kita ng naay pagtagad. –
Kung naa man ko’y dalhon na mantra human nako’g pag-eskwela dira sa unibersidad na kini, mao kini ang mga panultihon na nibuka sa baba ni Sir Norman Ralph Isla, Campus Secretary sa MSU-GenSan: “an MSUan will always be an MSUan because he or she is a survivor.”
Kita mga survivor kay ang gikinahanglan para makagawas sa ini nga gisalikway nga kagubot nga unibersidad kay ang pagdaog sa mga kalisdanan nga ini—ang pagkaon sa lapok kag abog, ang paghimong usa sa lapok kag abog. Sa masanag nga perspektiba, pwede naton masiling nga kita mas maayo pa sa iban nga mga gradwado sa iban na unibersidad kay ang kalig-on nga aton nakab-ot dili pareho sa bisan ano nga eksperyensya—ini ang buot silingon nga maging isa ka MSUan, isa ka ‘survivor’.
Ang usa ka MSUan gihimo gikan sa yab-ok ug lutak. Gipakaon kami og dinalian sa yuta ug abo sa niining buang nga unibersidad. Bisan among gilamoy ug giuyok kini hangtod sa maglama-lama ang among mga ngabil, ug among gilumoy kini nga mura ba og mabusog. Apan miski pa sa daw malupigong pagtagad nga mukhaon og abog na mura ba og among pamahaw kada buntag, kami gihulma ug gitudluan nga mabuhi pinaagi sa mga kamot sa pagtuo, kaisog, ug kalig-on.
Oo, kami nag-agi sa grabe na kalisod; apan kini nga kalisod maoy nagpa-baskog kanamo - andam nga moatubang sa tinuod nga kalibutan sa trabaho inig human namo og eskwela diri.
Gimugna kami sa lapok ug abog, ayaw mi ninyo og hagita - suwayi kami.
Empowering Inclusivity, Shaping Futures:
The Center for Women’s studies at MSU-GSC
MOEUM NOMEN
Within a diversified space such as Mindanao State University-General Santos City, the question lingers, how does one express themselves without the fear of abuse and judgment?
In a world where gender equality is more crucial than ever, the Center for Women’s Studies at Mindanao State UniversityGeneral Santos City stands as a beacon of empowerment and progress. Dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment, the office champions for women’s right and gender equality, through education, research, and community engagement. The center is adamant with their vision of shaping a friendly university where equality is celebrated and equity among cultures is fostered. Moreover, they are clear with their mission to inspire, educate and advocate for gender empowerment in all sectors of life.
Situated in front of the Science and Technology Training Center (STTC), the Center for Women’s Studies houses the Gender and Development Focal Point system. In which, hand by hand, is open for concerns regarding abuse and discrimination. In fact, earlier last year, the office established the Committee for Decorum and Investigation (CODI) where it provides clear guidelines and procedures for handling cases of misconduct, ensuring a safe and supportive environment for all.
“In our efforts, CODI was created to provide equality among genders and to make MSU-Gensan a gender responsive university.” Stated by Prof. Diane May Ulangdan-Lozano, Director of the Center for Women’s Studies, Chairperson of CODI, and Focal person of Gender and Development Focal Point System (GADFPS).
However, Prof. Lozano, during her
Studies at MSU-GSC
term, also noticed that achieving these ambitious goals requires a multifaceted approach. Thus, the Center for Women’s studies gathered needed data to further cater the needs of the constituents. These include collection and analysis of gender statistics which enabled the office to oversee gender gaps and safety concerns of the students.
This has led to the Center for Women’s Studies to offer a range of programs designed to support and uplift the university constituents. One of the flagship initiatives is the Safe Spaces Act/Anti-Bastos campaign, which addresses sexual harassment and promotes respectful interactions across the campus. These initiatives extend beyond students, faculty, and staff, even reaching out to habal-habal riders who are a vital part of campus life.
Among the most visible and impactful developing projects of the Center for Women’s Studies is the Laktanan Wellness Garden and the AMUMA. This vibrant place not only promotes physical wellness but also serves as a symbol of inclusivity and community. Designed with accessibility in mind, the park encourages interactions and activities that fosters a sense of belonging and mutual respect among all members of the university.
“Our office is still young, and currently, based on the evaluation of the Philippine Commission on Women (PCW), we are in level 2 which is Installation of Strategic Mechanism Level. In which marks the transition of the organization towards gender mainstreaming.” Vocalized by Prof. Lozano, as they aim to advocate for gender mainstreaming as their strategy to advance their goals in attaining gender equality and promote inclusivity. These are projects, programs, and activities that are
beneficial to everyone regardless of their gender roles and identity.
Despite the significant strides made, the journey towards achieving the Center for Women’s Studies ambitious goals continues. The center constantly evaluates its programs and strategies, seeking innovative ways to address emerging challenges and ensure sustained progress.
By maintaining a flexible and responsive approach, the office remains at the forefront of the fight for gender equality, continuously adapting to the evolving landscape of gender issues.
“We have a long way to go. But hopefully, through the help of everyone in the university, hindi lang kami na faculty, but also everyone in the administration, including the students and the staff, malaking bagay na we are improving every year. Hopefully next year, at sa iba pang pagkakataon, mas maging progressive tayo to a genderresponsive and inclusive university.” Prof. Lozano reflects as she underscores the collective effort required to move closer to a fully gender-responsive and inclusive Mindanao State University-General Santos City.
Undeniably, the Center for Women’s Studies at MSU-GSC is more than just an office situated in front of the STTC; it is a catalyst for change, inspiring and equipping individuals to advocate for gender equality. Through its comprehensive programs and strategic initiatives, the Center for Women’s Studies is making substantial progress towards its vision of a just and equitable university. As the center continues to grow and evolve, its unwavering commitment to empowering women and promoting gender equity remains steadfast, promising a safer and inclusive future for all.
MOEUM NOMEN
photos by Krishtine Rivera
photos by Krishtine Rivera
photo by Krishtine Rivera
Rise of the Rainbow Century
Only men can lead.
They are the ones who possess authority. Men are in control of everything— government, household, business, or whatever you call it. Thus, women and other genders ‘beneath’ them are considered mere followers, slaves, and powerless individuals.
“Kung ako sa inyo, si Juan botohon ta para mangin lider. Para isog kag hindi lawlaw (mahina) ah.”
“Kababae sa imo madagan ka sa opisyal? Kaya mo haw?”
We often hear these words circulating in our surroundings. It became a cycle of traditional perception that has been carried and passed through different generations.
As we grew up, we observed how society valued the abilities of men more in leadership and disregarded the capabilities of women and the LGBTQIA+ community in the ruling, from the four corners of a classroom, to the world’s societal standards as a whole.
But these are just the peaks of a short story...
Estella, a student leader at a barangay high school, has experienced the worst possible scenario she could’ve ever imagined as a student leader. Behind her back, everybody was told to vote for the male candidate, simply because he was a man and was ‘more capable’ than her. But an underlying reason would be because she campaigns for gender equality and because people often perceive women and other genders as weak and vulnerable.
During her administration, her officers were scolded when she announced publicly, with the permission of the higher authorized personnel, how they would like to include everybody, including those who are in the rainbow community, to participate in a particular activity.
She was treated differently. During her interview, she was interrogated regarding her personal life and views, rather than being questioned for credential purposes. She was told to stop advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community, especially when she goes to college, because, just like how the SOGIE Bill is still not approved in the Senate, advocating gender equality is unimportant and useless.
This has always been the case. But not this time.
As she entered a new journey, she was embraced by the warmth of Mindanao State University and the people inside this peaceful institution. She saw diverse horizons, igniting unity to lead and make visible changes in the community.
Today, the majority of student leaders are females and are members of the LGBTQIA+, and most of them are advocates for equality, peace, and order. These leaders bravely fight for the rights of everyone, trying to battle the existing discrimination that has been destroying our wings for centuries.
On the recent observations that student leadership roles today are predominantly held by non-males, Leonard Tucjayao, the newly elected president of the Supreme Student Council, expressed his perspective on this matter. “For me, genders in the margins have been so deprived of these opportunities in the past. Historically, leadership roles have only been limited to males.”
He also added that perhaps what is happening right now is a result of our never-ending quest for equality and representation. It is also a great chance for marginalized genders to finally take their place in society.
“And it’s good that opportunities like this are no longer limited for the males, especially since bigger leadership roles usually come from small and tiny student leadership roles
on campus,” Tucjayao stated.
There, Estella realized that those who told her to stop were wrong—that being inside the rainbow is not irrelevant and powerless.
“I think this change is reasonable. Leadership is not gender-specific; it is about how we coach, guide, and inspire others. And fulfilling this does not only require a man to do so.”
Yhiah Sheneah Lew Caliza, the newly elected president of the Animal Science Department, expressed. We do not need a system that is led only by male supremacy and the perception that you have to be a man to be able to fulfill the duties of an organization.
In reality, we will need individuals who encourage their constituents to rise, to be creative, productive, and inclusive. Someone who will enlighten us that advocating for those who are under the umbrella and the SOGIE Bill are important—to protect those people who are discriminated against. As well as to prove that they are capable and can lead, whether in smaller or bigger organizations or platforms.
In this month of pride, as student leaders, let the colorful hue be seen and show our limitless abilities to the rise of a rainbow century, wherein we begin to be awakened by the determination to put back our wings—to make a high-flying journey in terms of leadership.
Men are not the only ones who can rule.
Possessing authority does not limit it to them. Women and those who are members of the LGBTQIA+ community can also be in the lead, be in control.
Whether what color in the rainbow signifies you, you can strive, influence, and become a leader. We, as individuals, regardless of gender, can stand alone.
Therefore, patriarchy should never be the only option.
photo by Rayjie Carillo
MSU-GenSan claims 5th
straight MSUSAA
Unity
Games Title with 341 points; SDO eyes intensified training for MASTS qualifiers
BERJAN PAGADATAN, JOSEPH CARL ESTRERA, AND KIMBIAN LIM
In a triumphant return after a five-year break, The Generals of Mindanao State University - General Santos, clinched their fifth consecutive MSU System Athletic Association (MSUSAA) Unity Games championship over 11 other campuses held at the General Santos Campus, from May 31 to June 5, 2024.
The Generals surged to the top of the rankings with 341 points, capturing championships in a wide array of sporting events, including both men’s and women’s volleyball, women’s athletics, women’s basketball, women’s chess, women’s table tennis, baseball, softball, and dance sports events.
Behind them were the MSU - Iligan Institute of Technology (IIT) Cats, who secured the overall silver title with 257 points, while MSU-Marawi Royals earned the bronze with 225 points.
Following the podium finishers were MSU-Maigo School for the Arts and Trades (MSAT), MSU-Sulu, MSU - Tawi-Tawi College of Technology and Oceanography (TCTO), MSU-Maguindanao, MSU-Buug, MSU-Naawan, MSU-Lanao National College of Arts and Trades (LNCAT), MSU-Sindangan, and MSU-Lanao del Norte Agricultural College (LNAC), who secured the runners-up positions with 69, 67, 62, 55, 44, 36, 32, 29, and 23 points, in order.
Moreover, Atty. Jamaloden A. Basar, Chairman of MSUSAA,
conveyed his gratitude to this year’s host, MSU GenSan, saying, “I would like also to congratulate and thank the host campus, the MSU General Santos, for the very hospitable accommodation. Every athlete of the 13 campuses is really happy to have attended this very successful MSUSAA Unity Games.”
“Next year, it will be held in MSU Sulu. Mabuhay ang Mindanao State University! One MSU!” he added.
Despite Unprecedented Budget Constraints
In light of the sudden venue change to MSU-GenSan, which occurred unexpectedly, the university stepped up to prevent further delays and postponements. The budget adjustments were made in compliance with the policy that host schools do not provide allowances to student-athletes. Instead, their budget for meals was augmented.
According to Prof. Lavente, “So, ang nangyari, yung budget ng mga bata sa food is supposed to be yung meal nila is P150, gi-taasan. So instead na tag P150, tag P200 ang lang per meal. And then ang ilang budget for snacks is nagiging from P75, naging P150 na per snacks.”
To further manage costs, MSU-GenSan sought assistance from
the local government unit (LGU) and the Department of Education (DepEd). The redirected funds covered venue preparations, billeting facilities, security, medical arrangements, and the opening and closing ceremonies. Despite the reallocation of their allowances and other challenges, Generals athletes persevered to a landslide championship with the resources at hand.
Therese Dawn Pugasa of the Women’s Athletics Team noted some challenges but emphasized how it did not stop their team to bring home golds for the Generals, stating, “Naka-affect siya [budget reallocation], especially sa budget sa among jersey and transportation during the game kay own money namo among gigamit. Despite ani, ang paningkamot nalang jud siguro namo as an athlete na dili magpapildi kay gusto jud mag grand slam.”
Meanwhile, Anzahari Macalangcom of the Generals Men’s Basketball Team highlighted the importance of school support beyond financial concerns. “Hindi naman naka-affect ang budget sa aming performance at motivation kasi naka-perform naman kami ng maayos. Mas malaking impact pa rin para sa amin na makita naming supportive ang school,” Macalangcom said.
John Jiffer To-os of the Generals Badminton Team echoed similar sentiments, noting, “Enough man gihapon ang help nila sa amoa, labi na sa kaon namo.”
From the Athletes’ Perspectives
Amidst common sentiments about the campus’ scorching heat, athletes remained thrilled by the success of the MSUSAA Unity Games, which highlighted the essence of camaraderie and friendship among the MSU campuses.
Ronniel Acorin, of the MSU Generals Baseball Team, voiced his excitement, saying, “First time nako ni na mag MSUSAA, enjoy pa gyud kaayo kay daghan kaayo ko makita ug daghan maka salamuha gikan sa uban MSU Campus na paminsan lang mahitabo. Happy kaayo ko kay first time nako na ma experience.”
“From the theme itself, ang saya ng isang MSU. I’m happy that I joined MSUSAA 2024, kasama ang iba pang MSUans, pati na rin sa lahat ng iba pang mga MSU Campuses,” Jephte Cañadilla of the MSU Cats Men’s Table Tennis Team also shared his delights. “Ine-encourage ko silang sumali sa susunod na MSUSAA dahil nakakatuwa at nagbibigay ng bonding sa mga msuans dito, lalo na sa unity, dahil nagkakaisa kami dahil sa mga laro na ito.”
On Upcoming MASTS
As the MSUSAA Unity Games progressed, the attention quickly turned toward getting ready for the muchanticipated Mindanao Association of State Tertiary Schools (MASTS) in September at Pagadian.
In the same interview, Prof. Lavente discussed the extensive preparations undergoing to support the MSU System representatives from GenSan at MASTS.
“Actually, we are currently preparing for the budgetary proposal and are going to have a meeting with the coaches.” Prof. Lavente remarked with determination and strategic foresight. “We will discuss the matters about how we will prepare, especially the budget and are going to plan for the best strategic approach possible.”
Prof. Lavente explained that although MSUSAA champions automatically qualify to participate in MASTS, the main concern now is securing the budget to send all the champion teams. “Ang champion, automatic na sila na they will be participating in MASTS. Pero ang aming ginagawa ngayon is how we can come up with the budget na kailangan para lahat ng champion team ay maipadala talaga.”
Furthermore, Prof. Lavente also emphasized the university’s commitment to preparing athletes for the upcoming MASTS—to provide comprehensive support and necessary resources to ensure the athletes can compete at the peak of their abilities.
“We prepared the budget to be approximately 1.5 million pesos; that’s too much money na kakailanganin natin [for MASTS], syempre bag-o lang ta nag-MSUSAA [with 3 million pesos]. Then next na pud is nationals; hapdos gid kaayo siya sa admin.” Prof. Lavente acclaimed, referring to the campus’ financial strains.
To mitigate administrative expenses, MSU-GenSan is venturing on sponsorships and linkages to entrust budgetary funds, and is also exploring collaborations with LGUs and private companies to ensure that all representatives from General Santos City can participate in the regional stage.
“In preparation for the training, approximately baka sa 2nd week of July we will start na. Parang convenience lang ang mga three weeks to rest,” Prof. Lavente reiterated, discussing the training approach that they have adopted.
Ahead of the forthcoming event in Pagadian City, MSU-GenSan’s SDO, overseen by Prof. Lavente ensures that the athletes would receive full support and essential resources to optimize their preparation and uphold a competitive edge in regional sports.
upBuilding on low points
Stepping into the highly anticipated festival of sporting events, the Mindanao State University Athletic Association (MSUSAA) Unity Games offers a broad spectrum for cultivating studentathletes to compete in their respective sporting arenas, each determined to claim victory for the pride of their campuses. However, despite the enthusiasm, some yearn to see their events included in the competition but are unable to do so due to various reasons.
Held last 2019 in MSU-Maguindanao, the MSUSAA Unity Games made a triumphant return after a five-year hiatus, hosted by MSU-GenSan from May 30 to June 6; nonetheless, with only a month of preparation and constrained budgets from participating campuses, resources were limited, leading to a reduction in the number of sporting events they could participate in and exclude some from the competition.
Considering these reasons, certain sporting events had to be relegated, namely swimming, taekwondo, and the muchawaited Mr. and Ms. MSUSAA Unity Games, as participation was
NIEL ZSUN JOHN VEGA AND VANESS VILLAFUERTE
Illustration by Jewel Tapel
limited to just three teams, rendering swimming with only two contenders and taekwondo with three participants ineligible to be official events, while Mr. and Ms. MSUSAA Unity Games were removed due to budget constraints.
The exclusion of these events not only deprives student-athletes of valuable opportunities to showcase their talents but also undermines the diversity and inclusivity that the MSUSAA Unity Games should strive to embody. For athletes like Richard Karl Cardiño, whose passion for darts runs deep, this omission is particularly disheartening.
With his sentiments laid bare, Cardiño expressed his “deep sadness” over darts not being included in one of the special events in MSU. He lamented that the absence of darts in MSUSAA was particularly disappointing for dart players, as the exclusion deprived them of a crucial opportunity to showcase their skills and gain recognition, especially for graduating students, suggesting that this decision was discouraging and could potentially hinder the growth and popularity of darts at the university.
Anticipations among participating athletes were substantial prior to the event’s decision to exclude specific competitions, reflecting their dedicated preparations and training efforts, leaving them surprised and dispirited by the unexpected turn of events.
The recently concluded MSUSAA Unity Games featured a total of 15 sporting events, with teams from 11 MSU campuses competing for the championship. Through the tournament, demonstration of futsal and pickleball were introduced, sparking rumors that these two events will be included in the pool of events for the next Unity Games.
Janelle Nhovey Saldivia, a member of the Futsal Team of Generals, expressed that their commitment to the sport reflects their readiness to embrace new forms of physical motivation. She mentioned that, as a women’s football player, their sport remains underrated despite having participants from various colleges, but emphasized that they continue to attend training
sessions and tournaments to ensure they are both physically and mentally prepared in case the university decides to host a competition for their sport.
Exemplifying steadfast commitment, Saldivia underscores the resilience and determination of athletes who persist in pursuing their passions despite challenges. In an evolving sporting landscape, there is an increasing demand for greater inclusivity and opportunities, ensuring that athletes like Saldivia can showcase their talents on an equitable platform.
On the flip side, the introduction of demonstration events like futsal and pickleball offers athletes opportunities to explore new avenues of physical activity and competition. Despite these sports not enjoying the same popularity or tradition as others, Prof. Lorie Martin from General Santos City shared that these demonstrations aim to integrate pickleball and futsal into future MSUSAA competitions.
Moving forward, the organizers of the MSUSAA Unity Games should adopt a more inclusive and holistic approach to selecting sports, listening to athletes’ perspectives and considering the diverse interests and talents within the university community to foster unity and integrity. However, this endeavor may be constrained by budget limitations, requiring careful prioritization to sustain financial viability while supporting a diverse range of sports and athletes effectively.
Taking the first step in promoting equity, Generals’ futsal head coach, Prof. Jay Carlo Bagayas, has persistently advocated for the inclusion of futsal over the past three years, aiming to ensure equal opportunities and recognition for women athletes. His efforts highlight a commitment to expanding the university’s sports programs and promoting gender equality in sports participation.
As the Unity Games looks towards the future, it must aspire to be a beacon of unity, diversity, and sporting excellence within the Mindanao State University community. By embracing these values despite budget considerations and limited sporting events, the athletic meet can authentically celebrate the diverse talents and spirited camaraderie that define the university, fostering a sense of belonging and pride among all participants and spectators alike.
Lu-od ang Lapok ug Abog
Sa paghunahuna pa lang nako sa pag-eskwela sa MSU, nadunggan ko na ang mga sugilanon bahin sa kalisdanan nga nagaulat kanamo. Ang mga istorya sa lapok kag abog, kainit kag kabugnaw, daw wala ko nagtuo nga tinuod. Apan samtang nagpadayon ako, nakit-an ko nga ang pagiging usa ka MSUan nagpasabot nga makaon mo ang lapok kag abog, ug mahimo ka mismo nga lapok kag abog. Kini ang buot silingon sang pagin usa ka MSUan—kami ang mga survivor.
SECOND SEMESTER 2023
bagwis photo department editted by kevin asombrado
