Mentors and Legends confabulate perspectives in PDC 2024
JOHN PAUL SIAPEL
General Santos City - With the contemplated standpoint of ideas in Mindanao State University-General Santos City (MSU-GSC), the College of Education (COEd) Mentors bearing Natlan and Senior High School (SHS) Legends bearing Khaenri’ah fought for the championship during Parliamentary Debate Competition held in the Conference Room of the Y-Building in Mindanao State University - General Santos City (MSU-GSC), October 13.
During the debate, each team expressed their opinions with grit and grace, combating perspective under government and opposition, which were determined as the sides of Mentors and Legends respectively.
Angela Kirtana Candole, Tournament Director, said she encouraged each participant to soar high in their journey as debaters, seeing their potential for improvement and success.
“To all the participants of the MSUGSC Parliamentary Debate, don’t just stop there. There are a lot of debate competitions outside the walls of MSU where you could great people who could help you become the best debaters,” she said.
Mentors’ Perspective
In an interview with Alaysa Solaiman from COEd, she said her team prepared by attending sessions and training, and with prayer, were able to surpass the semifinals with flying colors.
“We have gone through a lot of training, sessions, and researching on different topics almost everyday. We also attended virtual lectures about debate and because off this we were able to know the things we need to learn about debating,” she emphasized.
Solaiman acknowledged the flaws of
speeches, reflecting on having a hard time with sentence structures and handling their speaker roles, but it also motivated them to overcome it with confidence.
“Since we were all novices, most of us really had a hard time with our speech structures and the burdens we have to fulfill in each speaker roles. But with the help of MGDS and with all of the efforts we have made as a team, we still managed to survive these challenges,” she said.
In addition, Solaiman realized that debate is not limited to speaking, but also focused on the way a person perceives an issue, marking its importance in understanding different perspectives.
“Debate is really not about public speaking, it’s a matter of how logical you are, how much you know about the world, and how you things in different perspectives,” she added.
Legends’ Prospect
According to Jhersey Mae Guazo, the Legends conditioned their team by participating in debate lectures, setting a firm cornerstone in elevating the skills of their team.
“Considering we, as a team, were first time debaters with little to no experience, we were first introduced to the burdens of each role then debate lectures. The lectures offered by the MGDS were a big help because they tackled so much that helped us build a strong foundation in our debating skills,” she speaked.
Furthermore, the most challenging aspect their team experienced was creating opinions that clashed with their own perspective, struggling in framing angles, remarking it as one of the common things that a novice can experience.
“I think the most challenging for us was when our opinions would
really match up. Also, there were also times where we struggled especially with framing and such because of lack of experience and because it was complex for us for some reason,” she clarified.
Guazo additionally said that she realized that debate highlights better views in other perspectives, and she expressed that they will learn more in the future, and giving gratitude to her team.
“For me, maybe to do better next time and learn more about debating and for my team, I just want so say thank you and that we did so well considering it was our first time”, she added.
Throughout the event, the MGDS also revealed the nations from the Land of Teyvat, namely Khaenri’ah for Senior High School, Natlan for College of Education,
Science and Mathematics, Mondstadt for College of Social Science and Humanities, Fontaine for College of Fisheries, Inazuma for College of Engineering, and Snezhnya for College of Agriculture.
The winners will be announced on October 14 during the awarding on Literary Night, same with rhetorical and dramatic events.
Accountancy, and Administration,
and along the behind sidelines
There’s nothing quite like the peace of knowing you’re safe, guarded, and will be rescued every time you feel a sense of unease. Undeniably, what makes every moment in the 2024 intramural is the assurance that if anything goes wrong, there are hands ready to catch you, eyes watching out for you, and the hearts that are ready to help are within reach.
While students intensely indulge in cheering and racing for the competitions, there are heroes widely awake and lying steady. Judiciously, they work behind the scenes, so we can savor the joy and experience every moment. After all, not all heroes wear capes—others wear badges, standing vigilant day and night, while we barely notice their presence—some carry medical kits, ready to take action at a moment’s notice, tending to the injured and offering comfort when chaos reigns.
From Dawn to Dusk
As intramurals season proceeds, students immerse themselves in bliss day and night with ease. Unbeknownst to many, some work tirelessly to keep everything at peace. MSU police officers lurk in the shadows at every event. From the first light of dawn to the quiet hours of dusk—they shoulder the burden of protection, ready to face danger without hesitation.
“24/7 open ang amuang opisina. As long as naa lang moy need sa amoa, sa among serbisyo, open lang kami.” Informed by Jojo Baclaan, Security Guard 1-Permanent, MSU Police Office Personnel.
Mindanao State University—General Santos City has an approximate total of 50 to 53 MSU police, guarding every corner of the campus. Compared to the thousands of students and faculty during events, their number is like a nick for some. However, their presence—despite few—provides comfort to every MSUan.
“Musugot man mi’g sa dili, kapoy no, pero part man na sa nature sa among trabaho. Full force mi tungod kay para sa atong mga estudyante ug maging safety lang ta tanan these coming nga mga events,” Baclaan lamented, highlighting the essential role of MSU police for the peaceful conduct of intramurals’ 2024.
While they may seem strict and stoic in enforcing policies, the MSU police are dedicated to their mission. Their commitment extends beyond just
maintaining order; it reflects their genuine concern for the safety and well-being of the students, faculties, staff, and even visitors. As the festivities unfold, remember the people behind the scenes. Their vigilance allows us to enjoy these moments of camaraderie with no thoughts of worry.
Beyond the Bandages
As the intramurals push forward and the crowd’s cheers echo, there is always a team that stands by more closely than the rest. The Student Emergency Rapid Response Team (SERRT), alongside the Red Cross Youth, the Medical Services Department (MSD), the Medical Rapid Response Team (MRRT), and the University Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (UDRRMO) stand ready, not for the glory of the competition but for the moments when safety wavers.
Albert Bangon Jr., SERRT president, stated, “As a student medic sa university, our role is to assist in medical services kay kulang gid silag tao and especially pag may big event ang university po. So ang ginagawa po namin is we give immediate care sa mga students, especially pag need nila ng help pag injured sila.” His sentiments are also anchored to a sense of fulfillment when offering help to ease someone’s pain and ensure that first aid is applied despite the job’s demands and unprecedented emergencies.
These unsung heroes have prepared and practiced first aid measures like bandaging
and splinting techniques months before the intramurals, proving their commitment to giving the best response to our medical needs. Snappy as they should be, they’re always ready on their station per sport event, as planned out in their deployment scheme. Ready to patch you up and cheer you on, their roles indeed go beyond the bandages.
The Heart of Peace
As we dive into the exhilarating atmosphere of intramurals, where cheers erupt and the thrill of competition electrifies the air, it’s all too easy to overlook the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to keep us safe. This year’s theme of being a peace university embodies not only the commitment of students to fostering unity but also the countless hands ready to help and the vigilant eyes watching over us to ensure our well-being.
Let’s take a moment to acknowledge the invaluable efforts of the MSU police, SERRT, to name a few. Their commitment and readiness to help create a safe environment that allows us to celebrate and enjoy the excitement of intramurals without worry. Knowing they are there makes all the difference, reminding us that even in the thrill of competition, we are never truly alone.
After all, we owe our peace of mind to the dedicated individuals working behind and along the sidelines.
Hezel Sulan, Cathylene Bulado, Keziah Carino, Fayrouz Omar
Vanguards ascend to glory, claiming the historic first-ever futsal
championship in thrilling showdown against ASTEEGS
JOSEPH CARL ESTRERA
Ultimately concluding their first-ever Intramurals futsal title, the Vanguards of the College of Social Sciences and Humanities loomed over the ASTEEGS of the College of Engineering in a heart-stopping battle, where Nissy Kyle Duarte’s golden saves became the stuff of legend and Janis Pinque’s relentless attack delivered the dramatic final blow, sealing a 1-0 victory that etched the Vanguards into the annals of history as the foremost champions of the event at the College of Agriculture Court, October 13.
In a fiercely contested first half, both teams showcased their defensive prowess, but despite Christine Medel of the ASTEEGS delivering several high-efficiency attacks, Duarte’s spectacular saves consistently thwarted her efforts, and in a dramatic final minute, Pinque converted a penalty kick, securing a pivotal advantage for the Vanguards.
The Vanguards devised a tactical approach to run down the clock in the latter half, skillfully maneuvering to apply relentless pressure on the offense and force the game into a gripping climax. Ultimately, their steadfast defensive prowess proved pivotal, securing a hardfought victory.
VANESS VILLAFUERTE
Vanguards rally to finals after 2-1 slide over Tycoons in women’s table tennis
Throughout a thrilling finale of the tournament, Pinque dazzled on the court, earning the title of most valuable player, while Duarte stood tall as the best goalkeeper award. Pinque also secured her place on the mythical Five as the Best Target Player, while Christine Medel was honored as the Best Left Winger. Andrea Du from the College of Business Administration and Accountancy claimed the title of Best Right Winger, and Tresha Laroscain from the College of Education earned recognition as the Best Defender.
After the championship, Duarte reflected on the journey they took to claim the crown, stating, “Gipugos gyud nako sila na mag training everyday para worth it pud ang pag champion, ingon nako sailaha na kung mag gahom man mi na ma champion pero wala mi training, it’s just like nonsense.”
She emphasized that, while maintaining a disciplined approach as team captain, she ensured her leadership never felt overly stern with the primary goal being to authentically represent their college and instill pride in the Vanguard community. As futsal was newly introduced, she and her teammates aimed for the championship despite the tough competition, building deep trust in each other throughout their journey.
Earning a spot in the championship, the College of Social Sciences and Humanities (CSSH) Vanguards surged past the College of Business Administration and Accountancy (CBAA) Tycoons with a thrilling 2-1 victory in the women’s table tennis tournament at the College of Fisheries Building, October 13.
Opening the match strong, the Tycoons asserted dominance early in singles A, with Kristel Mae Kismundo Eduave overpowering her opponent 3-1 through precise and aggressive play, leaving little room for the Vanguards to counter. However, the Vanguards responded fiercely in doubles, as Raya Alessandra Dagohoy and Joliza Rosanto rallied to secure a crucial win, tying the match at 1-1.
In the decisive singles B match, Tycoons’ Honey Depalas faced off against Stephanie Gulle of the Vanguards in a nail-biting showdown. Depalas edged out the first set in a tense opener, but Gulle responded with determination, dominating the next two sets 11-4 and 11-6.
Daniel Angeles, the tournament manager, expressed his heartfelt gratitude, particularly to Professor Carlo Bagayas, who he credited for initiating the futsal program. Angeles noted that Prof. Bagayas’s efforts were crucial to the tournament’s success, emphasizing the significant support from the Sports Development Office, particularly from Professor Sammielyn Lavente.
While he recognized the challenges posed by budget constraints, he stated that his passion for Futsal and football motivates his commitment to ensuring the tournament’s success.
He was then pleasantly surprised by the high level of competition among the participating colleges, highlighting that each team brought players who exemplified sportsmanship fostered a friendly yet competitive atmosphere.
On the other hand, the College of Business Administration and Accountancy Tycoons emerged victorious as they claimed the bronze medal in the futsal competition by defeating the College of Education Mentors in a cliff-hanging 1-0 victory.
Although Depalas mounted a comeback with an 11-6 win in the fourth set, Gulle held her ground, clinching the match with a hard-fought 11-7 victory in the final set to secure CSSH’s spot in the finals.
“Last year, we learned our lesson. We committed to intensive training so we could bounce back stronger this time,” Dagohoy shared, reflecting on their hard-fought triumph.
“We’re confident heading into the next game, especially with our twice-to-beat advantage. Ideally, we want to close it out in just one game to maintain our momentum and avoid the pressure of a second match.” Dagohoy remarks capture the Vanguards’ focus on capitalizing on their preparation and pushing through to the next round with minimal setbacks.
With this coup, CSSH clinched a twice-to-beat advantage in the finals. They now await the outcome of the semifinal clash between CBAA and the College of Agriculture to determine their championship opponent.
ASTEEGS nail down entry to the semis, pull away Anglers in men’s volleyball rally
PRINCESS GRACE TESNADO
Redeeming themselves after a loss, the defending champions, College of Engineering (COE) ASTEEGS, regained momentum as they secured their entry into the semi-finals, ending the College of Fisheries (COF) Anglers’ rally in men’s volleyball with a 2-0 sweep [25-23, 25-17] held at University Open Court, October 13. The ASTEEGS sealed the victory with a 2-0 sweep [25-23, 25-17] on the scoreboard.
With a mixture of excitement and thrill, regained momentum with an impressive range of attacks—off-theblock hits, quick strikes, and powerful kills. This allowed COE to break through deadlocks and secure their entry to the semi-finals.
Both teams did not want to waste points as the biggest gap was only three points, however, ASTEEGS were so determined to snatch away the first set, setting the momentum on their court as they capitalized on their rapid hits causing damage on the floor defense of the Anglers, making their way on their first set advantage, 25-23.
Building on their momentum, the reigning champions capitalized on the out-of-system play of the Fisheries in the middle of the second set, ensuring a comfortable lead. The Anglers struggled to handle the swift attacks and powerful kills from the eager ASTEEGS, who effectively exploited soft touches and drop shots, extending their lead to seven points, 16-9.
` The Anglers tried to bounce back into life after their 3-0 run, however, the title was in their redemption form, as COE team captain, Prince Zudiri Macagcalat, show-off his leadership inside the court with his tough blocks and irreparable open spikes along with smart and unpredictable sets of their setter, John Lloyd Funa, reclaiming their momentum on this year’s men’s volleyball match.
Marking their supremacy in men’s volleyball, the ASTEEGS are setting their vision straight to the back-to-back title especially that they are now closer to defend their trophy once again.
Reapers edge Anglers in 52-50 thriller, establish a two-win edge in men’s basketball
BERJAN PAGADATAN
In a heart-pounding showdown, the College of Agriculture (COA) Reapers clinched a narrow 52-50 victory over the College of Fisheries (COF) Anglers, securing a twice-to-beat advantage in the men’s basketball Intramurals at the University Gymnasium on October 13.
Starting off strong, Reapers’ Brian Jomahali dealt the first basket, on which Ebrahim Saylon of the Anglers answered with a tough layup, both breaking the scoreboard, 2-2.
The COF, featuring Ayman Jalil’s smooth sailing jumper, sparked a run for the Anglers’ squad, leading with a six-point margin as the first quarter ended, 10-16.
Reapers did not let the Anglers bury them with a gap as they immediately splurge a fivepoint run, closing the lead to one, 15-16, in the second quarter.
Mansor Rasid of the COA then flourished with back-to-back three pointers, extending the lead by three, 27-24, with the second quarter’s end.
A tug-of-war exchange was played in the third quarter, where opposing foes were draining buckets at both ends, until the Anglers bolstered in with their defense, leading up 39-44.
Anglers then continued its run on the fourth with Jalil’s exceptional hangtime ability, as he sent the lead to nine as the quarter’s early stage, 39-48.
COA, with Ezekiel Arsolon’s pinpoint precision, knocked multiple beyond the arc shots, helping to close the gap to one, 47-48.
The Reapers sealed the win in the final minute with a clutch three-pointer from Mansor Rasid and a critical free throw from Jomahali, extending their lead to two points, 52-50.
The Anglers then mounted a late-game push, but a missed layup and an attempted clean-up by Ayman Jalil and Allan Redecio were not enough to change the outcome wherein COA held firm, riding their momentum into tomorrow’s finals with the upper hand.
