Fenomenal: The Elections Issue (May-June 2016) by The BEACON Publications

Fenomenal The Elections Issue • May-June 2016 • Volume No. 2 Issue No. 1

DU30

THE EFFECT

CONTENTs

3 Editorial

CAMPUS

16 17 18 2016 Summer Hitlist 5 REVIEWS 21 22

FEATURE: National Elections

Meet: AdZU’s First Time Voters Bittersweet BAR Results 2016 OSA Revamped

Senior High the Ateneo Way: The Year of the Pioneers

7 23

COLUMNS

8 9 10

The Teleserye-like Race to VP-Land Not a “No Big Deal” Same Old Summer Love

FEATURE: Local Elections

INSTAJACK

11 13

The Top 10 Election Playlist Still #TeamAmarillo

14 The Man of the hour

Top 10 Instagram Summer Posts of Ateneans

EDITOR’S NOTE

Hope or horror This year’s summer was special. Discounting the extreme heat indices we had to endure, it was on a fateful Monday in May when 16 million Filipino voters chose Rodrigo Roa Duterte as the preferred Chief Executive of the Philippines. Whether that choice was founded on critical analysis and discernment or borne out of the wave of fanaticism championed by Mocha Uson, we have no way of validating. Now, questions arise. Have we prepared ourselves well with what is about to come? Are we ready for the Duterte brand of ‘change’? We must be in such desperate quandary to elect a president with a curriculum vitae akin to a familiar Third World strongman and the public speaking skills of a sewer. Such a brave decision to go forth a less traditional way of ruling—and there is just so much that we could hope for, or be horrified for. Speaking matter-of-factly, whatever is in store for our dear Republic in the coming days, months and years, these are not subject to choice or ballot. We have to embrace, accept or endure all of these. Such is the sad compromise of democracy.

FATIMA MANDANGAN The BEACON Publication’s EIC PHOTO BY: MOHAMMAD SARAJANS

However, not just because our job of electing leaders is done, we stop making changes— might as well put that desperation into good use. If we believe that Duterte can make a “better Philippines” a reality, in return, we then also have to make him and ourselves believe that “better Filipinos” are not just a wish-upon-a-star. Ours is a nation of optimistic people, too optimistic perhaps, it defied logic and economics. Many aspire that the country maybe, just maybe, can get out of the endemic, pervasive poverty and corruption it has been in for many decades now. We believe what we see, they say and what the people have seen in Davao was enough reason for them to believe that a better Philippines is indeed conceivable. We might be a tropical mess, but is that all we could ever be? ###

Fenomenal | 03

FEATURES • NATIONAL ELECTIONS

The Fallen Ones: ROXAS BY BIANCA ROMA DE LEON • PHOTO COURTESY OF PHILNEWS.PH

t the start of the presidential race,

early in the race.

and disasters. Credit is served where credit is

Mar Roxas’ pursuit for a “daang

But at what point exactly did the Filipino

due, and Roxas deserves none. Conclusion: his

matuwid” felt inspiring enough.

community stop being Roxas sympathizers?

reasons for aiming for presidency aren’t based

Many voters felt that in the

It started when the attacks against Mar

on genuine and personal interests to serve the

process of battling national issues, the country

took the angle of focusing on his previous

nation— because if it were, he would’ve started

needs someone closest to the citizens. He was

incompetence as an executive member. Many

inducing change a long time ago. He was

in fact dubbed “Mar of the People” because the

pointed out that he had innumerable instances

running to carry on the Roxas political dynasty,

Liberal Party has always pictured him among

to prove himself worthy of the highest seat.

and the Philippines deserves better than that.

the poor, with his arms around the elderly, in

Despite his vice presidential loss in 2010,

Duterte’s triumph has put an end to

all kinds of workplaces. He was portrayed as

political analysts still reasoned that if he were

Roxas’ “daang matuwid”. But come to think of

the solidifying entity embracing the Filipino

really targeting for presidency, and that if his

it, will we really get that if he assumes office?

masses into one cooperative movement, while

decision to run wasn’t really based on impulse

There might not even be a “daan” at all, because

paid individuals look up to him adoringly and

or pressure as an heir of a political dynasty, he

he’ll most probably just sit back in his office, as

try to bring across the message that he is

would have done more to win public support.

he had for years.

destined for presidency. At one point, we all

With his political history, we have to admit that

have to admit that he seemed like the most

he was in the perfect position to win over the

logical choice, especially considering that our

masses when he just did reformations that

other options include a disciplinarian, a cancer

address the country’s needs, like intensifying

victim, an heiress of an action star, and a

police force for increased security, or being

candidate whose political appeal died out too

consistently present in the face of conflicts

04 | Fenomenal

“Credit is served where credit is due, and Roxas deserves none.”

FEATURES • NATIONAL ELECTIONS

The Fallen Ones: Poe

BY CIARA MAE OBILLO • PHOTO COURTESY OF INQUIRER.NET

arnering only 8,935,733 or 21.6% of the total votes, Senator Mary Grace Natividad Sonora Poe Llmanzares or simply “Grace Poe,” landed the third spot in the 2016 Presidential race. She was also the first candidate to concede to and congratulate the frontrunner, presumptive President Rodrigo Duterte. Criticas praised her and noted that her concession is significant as it will hopefully encourage not only her supporters but all the Filipinos to accept the results of the election peacefully and with hope for the coming administration. After landing the top spot in the 2013 senatorial race, Poe showed consistency in her being an efficient public official. She was able to pass 231 bills and resolutions. These bills include the Sustenance for the Filipino child, and First 1000 days which aims to improve the nutrition and sustenance of the young Filipinos. She was also among those who firmly stand to push the approval of the Freedom of Information bill. More so, Poe led the probe on the Mamasapano clash which cost the lives of 44 Special Action Force members. For that, Poe earned praises from different critics due to her unbiased and efficient handling of the matter. Poe was one of the most “watched out” candidates since then. She was very popular with the old people. Analysts said that aside from her efficacy as a public servant, Poe’s edge from other the other presidentiables was her strong empathy for the marginalized sector. She has a certain x-factor that enables her to emotionally bond with the crowd. Also, her vulnerability as a mother, as a woman, and her mala-MMK life story touched the hearts of the many. Majority of her supporters saw something in her to whom they can relate to, thus making her popular in some parts of the marginalized sector, not to mention the Poe surname factor and the image of her adoptive

father, Fernando Poe Jr. by her side. Despite of her efficacy and popularity, analysts already predicted beforehand that Poe may come short in proving herself worthy of the presidency. Many analysts would say that she was “just so raw” to be president. Her 5-year service to the country is just not enough to elect her to a higher office. Not to mention her service covered only the legislative branch of the government which has not yet even ended by the way. Thus, analysts noted that the problem with a Grace Poe Presidency is the vulnerability of her being a mere puppet of her running mate Senator Francis Escudero, and their powerful elite backers, including business tycoon Eduardo “Danding” Cojuangco. It should be noted that when her senatorial duty started, Poe was being prepped by these advisers as to what and what not to do. Hence, the worry of these analysts rests on the possibility of having advisers with ulterior motives that would possibly put the Philippines in a very bad plight. Even though Grace Poe is known to be a person “who did not do anything half-baked” and who excelled in almost all endeavors may it be sports, debate or studies, her best is not just the best that the country needs right

now. Considering that the country is in a very vulnerable situation with the recent disputes with China over the Spratlys and pending debt that will be passed on by the current administration, the country needs a leader who is firm and experienced with decision making. The country needs someone who does not depend on his/her advisers but on his/her own capable state of mind. Sadly, Grace Poe is not just that person right now. The danger of being wrongly advised overpowers her efficacy and potential to lead the country. Indeed she needs more time and experience to make her “the one” for the presidency. Furthermore, Sen. Sergio Osmeña III believes that Poe “would have made a better contender for the presidency in 2022 instead of 2016.”

“Sadly, Grace Poe is not just that person right now.” Nevertheless, after losing the presidential bet, the senator gracefully paved way for the incoming administration and hoped for the best of the country. As for her, she promised to fulfill and excel more in serving the country as a senator.

Fenomenal | 05

FEATURES • NATIONAL ELECTIONS

The Fallen Ones: Binay BY MONIQUE PRAICO • PHOTO COURTESY OF SUNSTAR.COM.PH

“

ognog, pandak, laki sa hirap?” “Sa Makati...” Only Binay... Supporter or not, we all are familiar with the campaign jingles and catch phrases this Presidential candidate has released before and during the campaign season. But who is this “small, dark-skinned” man who vied for the highest position in our country’s government? Jesus Jose Cabauatan Binay better known as Jojo Binay is the younger of two children, but became an only child when his older brother died before he was born. He was orphaned at the age of 9 and was adopted by his uncle whom he helped in slopping feed into troughs in their pig farm. He graduated college with a degree in Political Science from the University of the Philippines Diliman in 1962 and continued on to the UP College of Law where he graduated in 1967 and passed the bar examinations in 1968. After this he took his master’s degrees from other institutions, attended training at the Command and General Staff College, AFP, joined the senior executive fellow program in Harvard and the list goes on for his academic history. He was appointed mayor of the city of Makati by the then President Corazon Aquino 06 | Fenomenal

in 1986, he was elected in his own right in 1988 and was reelected in 1992 and 1995. In those two decades as mayor he steered the “once backward municipality into a vibrant and modern metropolis.” Makati offers health care, subsidizes education, free school uniforms and even bottles of water in public schools. As the vice president, he was appointed by PNoy as chairman of Housing Urban Development Coordinating Council and

“Despite his grandiose platforms that involves ‘Makatinizing’ the entire country... this UNA candidate, ironically placed fourth...” Presidential Adviser for OFW concerns. This is probably why we haven’t seen much of the VP in action with the exception of cases involving OFWs sentenced to death or maltreated in other countries. So with all these in record, what hindered former vice president Jejomar Binay from bagging the presidential spot? Way before the campaign period for this year’s general elections, numerous corruption allegations were filed against him; most of

which involving his unaccounted properties and ill-gotten wealth. The first grand issue against Binay was on October 2006, when Binay was accused of overpricing office furniture worth P 232 million from 1991-2006. Nonetheless, it was dismissed due to lack of factual basis. The following year on March, his bank accounts were frozen by BIR due to P 1.1 billion the city owed to BIR for withholding employee taxes. He was ordered by the Court of Tax Appeals to pay the amount in 2009. The order was eventually lifted by the Malacañang Palace. Despite the controversies Binay still won the position of Vice President in 2010. He initially polled highly among expected presidential candidates. However, after the controversies piled up against him were left unanswered, he placed third in September 2015 Pulse Asia and his trust rating dropped to 18%. Rumors also have also circulated that if he wins, he will release the former President Gloria Arroyo and three senators allegedly involved inF the Pork Barrel scam. Despite his grandiose platforms that involves “Makatinizing” the entire country, his outstanding academic background, his vast experience and his appeal to the poor, this UNA candidate, ironically, placed fourth in the Presidential Race. F

FEATURES • NATIONAL ELECTIONS

The Fallen Ones: Santiago BY FRANCO RIVAS CANANEA • PHOTO COURTESY OF RAPPLER.COM(SENATE PRIB)

ith under two million votes

dishonest personalities in a nation infested with

to author bills, to be smart enough to implement

amassed, the irony kicks in

greedy public servants, and an appeal to the youth

projects that would be beneficial for the men they

seeing as how in social media,

brought about by her wit and relatable humor—it’s

serve, or knowledgeable enough to know about

the Iron lady of Asia has gotten

hard to see why she should be the next to sit on the

government funds, its appropriation, disbursements

so much love and praise and campaign yet she

presidential throne. But as with any good thing, it

and collections. Instead, we choose to elect a WBC

came last in all Social Weather Station election

is fleeting. The Philippines could have had the best

belt-holding boxer with slap-in-the-face senatorial

surveys and the official elections. In the pre-election

but we opted for an alternative. As the trend went,

track record and pull-your-hair Congress attendance

period, Miriam Defensor-Santiago has garnered

Miriam Defensor-Santiago is the best thing we

record, or an Eat Bulaga personality who has the

so many backlashes concerning her health issue.

never had.

audacity to claim JFK’s speech as his own.

Statements as “Qualified naman si Miriam ang

Where did the madam of all madams cut

This is the gutter out politics has become. It is

kaso baka mamatay siya during her term,” have

short then? For one, there is the absence of a strong

an arena infested with 1900’s stars, noontime show

been circulating all over all media platforms. The

campaign power. Of all candidates, only MDS

hosts and performers, athletes, primetime actors

issue became an even bigger deal with her failure

opted for a zero-funded campaign. That meant

and such. Had there been voter’s education in our

to attend the second presidential debate hosted by

no television ads, flyers and customary campaign

universities, we would not have dragged ourselves

TV5.

materials. All she did was a school campaign in

into this kind of wasteland. I’m not saying that

various universities. We know how Leni started

Rodrigo Duterte is a wasteful choice as I hold much

The youth is said to be MDS’s biggest

from the laylayan yet managed to catapult herself

respect for the guy. But to set the record straight, no

campaign machine, with volunteers all over

to being the vice president. She started off as the

matter how much health shading is to be thrown at

Facebook, Twitter and Instagram imploring their

underdog, hiding under the shadows left by Jesse,

MDS, we can never deny the lady’s caliber is worth

friends and followers to see the rationale in electing

with barely anyone taking her as a serious option

more than 1.8 million votes, more so she is worth the

her as president. Seeing the red-clad Miriam

as VP. With expensive TV ads, however, Robredo

presidential seat.

supporters during the presidential debate waving

gained recognition. Then again Joel Villanueva’s

The grievance we show for the Iron lady

banners and tarpaulins, it’s amazing to think that

smart television exposure instilled in the viewers

of Asia post-elections shows just how valuable of

the senator opted for a zero-funded campaign, with

the brand Tesdaman, giving him his much needed

a gem the Philippines had foregone. More than

the volunteers spending their own money for their

acknowledgement. Had MDS opted to expose

anything, it’s our loss more than Santiago’s. A public

presidentiable.

herself in our television screens with melodramatic

servant who’s delivered us thousands of bills and

It is pretty obvious MDS has been getting

words and tolerable acting the same way other

laws—we never gave a chance to step into a higher

so much love and her army of supporters has been

candidates did, could her defeat have changed? That

political power because we’re deities who know

all out just as much as the other parties’ have been.

I can’t put an affirmation on. But I know for sure it

she is bound to die during her term. But a man of

More than anything, hate me for saying this, but the

would have helped her at the very least.

extremes—delivers so much in the boxing ring but

lady is the most qualified of all the candidates. A

More than the lack of campaign, however,

nothing in the government battlefield—we chose

woman of her caliber—with 1,007 bills authored in

is the lack of voter’s education. We see how some

to re-elect for a seat in the senate. If anything, the

at the end of 2014, top-notch senate performance,

voters, most especially those who do not put much

blame is all on us. F

an intellect that has brought her as far as University

thinking into picking their choices, go for candidates

of Michigan, Oxford University, Harvard University

with memorable campaign advertisements and

and Stanford University to name a few, a firm

worse, those with known names. Gone are the days

anti-corruption stand that has busted numerous

when politicians had to be intellectually competent

“More than anything, it’s our loss more than Santiago’s.” Fenomenal | 07

COLUMNS

here seems to be some truth in the famous belief of history repeating itself. We have once again witnessed a clash between a Marcos and a widow in yellow. Ferdinand Marcos Jr., son of the late President Marcos and Leni

Robredo of the Liberal Party (LP), wife of the late senator, Jesse Robredo, had been in a long winding race against each other for the Philippine vice presidency. The result for the presidential position collected no obvious objection. Duterte was accepted as winner, even by critics, long before it was officially announced. But the race for the Vice Presidency proved to be a rather long and arduous process with both parties confidently believing they will come out as the winner. A lot of drama happened while everybody was waiting for the official count to finish, rooting for their own respective choice. On the early hours of May 10th, Robredo caught up with Marcos’ lead in the unofficial count, rendering her as the candidate with the vote advantage. With this, Marcos’ camp threw in some serious allegations about poll cheating and an alleged LP plan. He explained that LP desperately want Robredo to win so that when they successfully impeach Duterte, Robredo, an LP candidate, will then be taking the office as president. There was also the issue of dagdag-bawas, with the data released by the media, where the tally count for Escudero lost 36,442 votes where at the same time, Robredo’s votes allegedly gained 35,000, as evidence. Robredo’s camp flatly denied all these allegations. These events in itself practically drove social media insane. During the first week of counting, everybody kept track of the numbers and everybody was aware of the slim difference one has over the other. Netizens were pushing back and forth. People are coming out strong with their long statuses and venomous tweets. Friendships were affected and respect was overthrown. Social media was practically a political battlefield. Hashtags like #BBM and #LabanLeni trended for weeks. It looked like everybody was obliged to post an opinion. The virtual warfare was so visible that it was overwhelming. One side could not muster just as to why a lot of people voted for a Marcos, another was just incredulous as to why not, while a rather visible side was just involved in a love-hate relationship with the then-celebrity, Sandro Marcos. The rest might be just so annoyed with all the commotion they stopped logging in to their social media accounts or so incredibly amused they just made fun of everybody, most probably and decidedly the latter.

BY IRENE WAHAB

Amidst all the chaos, netizens did not lack in wit and sarcasm. Social media has never been that terrifying and entertaining at the same time. But like all else that becomes of trend, all of these faded away long before the winner was declared. People’s interest was alarmingly so fickle. The competition was admittedly tight. It was eventful in all its glory. But it was bound to end. At the 27th of May, Friday, the official count has closed. Robredo was announced as the victor, garnering 14,418,817 votes as against Marcos’ 14,155,344. History did indeed repeat itself. F

08 | Fenomenal

COLUMNS

BY DAVE CERVAS • GRAPHICS BY JONIE ALABAN & BIANCA ZAMORA

he time-honored practice of Philippine elections posits that those who are returnees and re-electionists are guaranteed of a slot in their vied positions. Interestingly, in this year’s acclamation of new senators, the current narrative confuted the believed convention. Out of the twelve proclaimed, five are novices in the mentioned legislative council. This volte face or abrupt change in people’s attitude paved the deeming of world-class boxer and perennial congress-absentee Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao as a better fit compared to seasoned candidates Osmeña and Guingona, for example. The question that still baffles many is why did our boxes go for the boxer? From his pale records in law-making to his stinging “masahol pa sa hayop” remark against the LGBT community, the “People’s Champ” should be an automatic goner in platformbased parlance. Initially, the survey results after the controversy reflected a rock-bottom waylay; but the man is still the Filipino’s Pound-for-Pound Hero and no ‘minor’ irresponsibility and insensitivity can tarnish those eight world-division belts of his sterling career. Nonetheless, the major canvass of Filipino voters, composed of a young pool only able to finish high school and married early and yet not gainfully employed, are disinterested with the bigger issues of political demographics. For these poverty-stricken electors, platforms geared toward lasting reforms are less interesting compared to the politics of the stomach. Providing food on the table is the primary propeller that maneuvers them to cast the names of those who have shown such capability. It is then no surprise that Pacquiao, with

his unique experience of personifying that poverty is not too high of an obstacle, inspires the rest of the population. Aside from that edge, he also enjoyed the highest awareness rating at the start of the year and he was supported by the Iglesia ni Cristo bloc, which caused the supporters to be perceived ‘stupid’ by elitist judgment. However, this view is a failed recognition of the societal divisions in our country. Perhaps, that is why despite the superfluous legislative agenda or the nonexistent congressional contributions, the people chose to send an inexperienced leader that could broaden the segment of legislators to genuinely uphold national welfare. Having that kind of lawmaker in such assembly might just bring the fluidity of dynamics that could complement the macro-viewed alternatives of established Senators to trickle down to the last bit of in need. A sense of connection in terms of fought real-to-life battles and conquered hardships between Manny Pacquiao and the almost 16 million believers could be the simplest premise to argue why despite the rawness and unfitness belabored by legal experts and technocrats, he was promulgated by democracy to be ranked in line with the other 11 senators-elect. Pacquiao must deliver positive results and become a different man as a Senator. His religious biases and ambiguous perspectives have no room in the agency where the future of the Filipino people is at stake. The appalling fad of popularity over noteworthiness must be proved otherwise by Senator Pacquiao. After all, the Senate is similar to a four-cornered boxing ring--the matches that he will fight as Senator would have its effect resonated to the lives of the people. F Fenomenal | 09

COLUMNS

“

BY JOSHUA CABREZOS • GRAPHICS BY BIANCA ZAMORA

lackout na naman!” “Wala na

predicament, or else they would suffer an

already know what El Nino is and what it can

namang tubig!” These words seem

abandon and a low priority. Water shortage

do. It’s just the matter of being prepared, en-

to resonate in every household and

on the other hand, is just as worse as well.

vironmentally aware, and a bit of common

establishment here in the city, es-

Those who could still bathe everyday were

sense would go a long way. The other side of

pecially during the hot summer days. We

probably blessed, because others had to skip

this issue lies in “THE PEOPLE ITSELF.” Don’t

have adapted to it and it became a part of

baths to conserve water. There is also the

blame the weather. Who do you think is to

our lifestyle. Like for instance, we find a cool

nuisance for those who buy in water refilling

blame? Is it the management whose corrup-

place to lie down and fan ourselves to beat

stations, because the line is long and they run

tion and lack of concern affects its consum-

the heat, or light up candles when there is no

out of water too. Businesses who depend on

ers? Is it the consumers who tap other’s wa-

electricity in the middle of the night, and we

the use of electricity and water are the ones

ter and electricity line so that they could save

store water in drums, pails, buckets, and ev-

greatly affected, because it hinders their pro-

money or yet get it for free? Is it terrorists

ery container we could find or, if you’re cre-

duction and as a result, less income generat-

who blew up the transmission lines? Or is

ative and efficient enough, you’d do some-

ed, but I reckon you already know that. The

the government itself to blame? We all don’t

thing else (if you didn’t do any of that, then

recurring blackouts greatly affected our lives

want to point fingers, but we may when it

you know nothing, Jon Snow).

and businesses that rely on it, and the alarm-

comes to a point when this city has suffered

Do you experience 2-3 hours of black-

ing shortage of water is not just a dilemma

enough blackouts and water shortage.

outs in your place? You’re still lucky. In some

here in the city, but also of the whole Mind-

places, power curtailment reaches up to 5-6

anao as well.

With the dawn of the Duterte administration, the people of this city are hoping for

hours, every day. For those who spend their

If you were to be asked why these

the change they’ve always wanted to hap-

summer travelling and taking vacations, you

blackouts and water rationing reoccur, and

pen. Not with sugar-coated false promises,

wouldn’t have problems about electricity.

your answer is about the weather, then

but with actual results. We are hoping that

Those who prefer to stay at home, lounge

you’re mostly right. But don’t you think it is

the next summer and the rest of the years to

themselves, browse the internet, increase

the most obvious answer? We already know

come wouldn’t be the same. So then maybe

their MMR, they’d have to adjust to the

what to do when the heat spell strikes. We

we wouldn’t have to skip baths anymore.

10 | Fenomenal

FEATURES • LOCAL ELECTIONS

Top Ten Election Playlist

BY JANIE PADUA

o you hear the people sing?

And no, they sing not the songs of angry men, although a quick reference to Les Miserables could perhaps help us make heads and tails of

what a democracy ought to really be. Instead, these are the ten songs that could depict what went down during the 2016 Philippine Elections:

1. Almost is Never Enough by Ariana Grande, ft. Nathan Sykes

-Jejomar Binay If you really try to recall, the only reason you’ll ever remember Gringo Honasan would be because of his and Jojo Binay’s ultramodern utopian LRT-ride of a political ad. Right? Right?

“I won’t give up on us, even if the skies get rough. I’m giving you all my love, I’m still looking up” –Allan Peter Cayetano, the biggest loser of perhaps the entire elections. He could make this the theme song of the rest of his life supporting DU30, especially when the latter has clearly made 3. It’s a Man’s Man’s World by James clear his preference for Bongbong Marcos Brown #araykobeh. But as they say, it isn’t love if it doesn’t hurt. 5. Perfect by Simple Plan

The tallying for the results of the vice presidential poll came neck and neck, and when Leni Robredo was finally declared as having won it, we could only imagine that 200,000-odd votes-margin to enough pain for Bongbong Marcos. 2. Team by Iggy Azalea

“This is a man’s world. This is a man’s world. But it wouldn’t be nothing, nothing without a woman or a girl.” True, true, and true. S/O to Grace Poe and Leni Robredo “‘Cause we lost it all, nothing lasts (aka the best woman who won)! forever. I’m sorry I can’t be perfect. Now it’s just too late and we can’t go back. I’m 4. I Won’t Give Up by Jason Mraz sorry I can’t be perfect.” – Miriam DefensorSantiago Although lung cancer is no laughing matter, it is, indeed, something all of us should regret to ever stricken someone so perfect to be president. This one impediment in her health is the only thing that kept her from being the perfect candidate.

“Baby, I got me Baby, I got me And that’s all I need Yeah that’s all I need Baby, I got me” Fenomenal | 11

6. Don’t Stop Believing by Journey

8. Dangerous Woman by Ariana Grande

This one’s because of ya, Jake Ejercito! And Luis Hontiveros! And Baste Duterte! And let’s not forget...

9. Pyramid by Charice

Surveys and ratings aside, all candidates are sure to have had a lot of pakpakpak confidence at one point or other during the campaign period, but none more than Mar Roxas, perhaps, with his faith in the “silent majority.” But after all that is said and done, he’s still just a guy. Very #DadsOfManila with his #travelgoals.

7. Don’t Let Me Down by The Chainsmokers ft. Daya

Yes, Sandro Marcos, and take a shot at guessing why. *nudge-nudge-wink-wink*

10. Tuloy Pa Rin by Neocolours

Mostly everyones’ – DU30 or non-DU30 supporters – ode to the incoming president. 12 | Fenomenal

Oh ayan, move on na tayo. Makipagbati ka na rin sa tol o besh mong in-unfriend mo sa Facebook and unfollowed sa Twitter because, you know, uulitin nanaman us like that in 2022 kaya love, love, love lang! F

FEATURES • LOCAL ELECTIONS

Still, #Team Amarillo

BY ASEYA CALO • ILLUSTRATION BY RYAN COVARRUBIAS

or the past three years, Zamboangueños have constantly whined about the sweltering heat from power shortages, the apparent lack of security and safety, and the insufficient water supply. Issues of debt, health, and threat plague our city, thus causing a significant disrupt in our economical and industrial development most especially noted in the years 2013 and 2014. However, despite all these years of screaming and raging for change and better service from authorities, the incumbent mayor and vice mayor will continue to serve another three-year term after being proclaimed as winners in this recently concluded elections. Mayor Beng Climaco and Vice Mayor Cesar Iturralde’s success tandem under the Liberal Party proves that the “yellow” force is still strong in the city. An oblivious and apathetic some would not care to give even a shrug, but a discontent and angry some will toss in their beds and ask “why?” A new era of leaders and style of government has presented itself to us yet why did we choose to keep the same people to whom we have subjected our woes? Well, the answer is fairly simple; we have just been in denial about it: the pros outweighed the cons. Truth is, it has been so long since we actually felt our city heading somewhere and whether we like to admit it or not, the forerunners of this new journey wear yellow outfits behind the pink. The September 2013 siege, just five months shy after the first term of the Climaco-Iturralde tandem, has left us shaken and scarred. The cry for help and rehabilitation lasted so long that some gave up and left Zamboanga for good. After the siege, the local government unit focused on healing and restoration. Campaigns of rising again, of awakening the sleeping city, and of staying and holding on were seen rampantly, these on top off giving housing to the approximately 160,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) plus food and healthcare and giving much needed therapy and education to the kids. There was an aggressive ploy to attract investors and keep harm at bay, and soon enough, the city rose back bruised but stronger. Zamboanga City is seen no longer as a barren, sorry wasteland but a land of promise and resilience. There is only so much that can be done in three years and Team Amarillo has been busy. The issues on the lack of utilities have always been there. ZAMCELCO has been in debt and experiencing system’s loss long before I was born and Zamboanga City Water District has been doing fine before it underestimated the effects of El Niño. The problem of peace and order is another long-waging war inside and outside out city’s borders. Based on what we learned from longstanding battles, winning one would entail strategic and calculated steps. And we have taken steps, ones that we never thought would be possible, which would optimally appease our conditions in the long-run. There are the $500M biofuel plant and P1.97B solar power plant underway. To add, there is currently a major

pipe project going on in the city proper. The government is trying to help these quasi-corporations for the benefit of the public. These may not instantly grant us first world status, but they are progresses just yet to be seen and felt. Meanwhile, while all of this is going on, infrastructures and business establishments have been sprouting like mushrooms. We have the 50 million times better and cleaner bus terminal, already humungous but still under-construction malls, hotels in four different new places, speed-built fast food chains, a beautiful stretch of boulevard, a six-storey private hospital and so much more. The proliferation of crime, however, cannot be blamed wholly on the government if we fail to be vigilant and principled. The policemen are there to enforce laws and to punish the wrong and abusive. If Team Amarillo’s challenge is to hold off foreign elements from wrecking havoc in Zamboanga, the citizens’ challenge is towards self-discipline and peace preservation. The city is thriving with possibilities and opportunities under the banner of pink on yellow. Cities surrounding ours have been growing so rapidly and after what happened in 2013, some thought that was it for Zamboanga, but it was not. We might refuse to admit it, but we owe it to #TeamAmarillo for fighting and not giving up, and so we trust. F Fenomenal | 13

FEATURES • NATIONAL ELECTIONS

“

The Man of the Hour BY TRISHA ORTEGA • ILLUSTRATED BY JONIE ALABAN

14 | Fenomenal

he Punisher” and “The Dirty

He was condemned for taking retribution

continue the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino

Harry of Davao” - these are

against those people whom he felt violated

Program which started during former

just some of the nicknames

the law without even giving them the

president Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s term,

that Filipinos call the infamous

right to be judged on a proper court trial.

establish tourism, agricultural and industrial

Davao-City-Mayor-now-

Hundreds and thousands of people also

hubs to create more jobs for Filipinos,

President President Rodrigo “Digong” Roa

reacted when he publicly cursed Pope

placing emphasis on strengthening the

Duterte.

Francis for causing traffic congestion during

steel industry, and he planned on creating

Rodrigo Duterte is a well-known

his visit in the Philippines. Duterte then

a 1 billion peso budget for every region

lawyer and politician in Davao City. He is

apologized and promised to personally visit

that would allow farmers and workers to

known to be one of the longest-serving

the Pope at Vatican. He was also the object

borrow money for starting up their own

mayors in the Philippines by being Davao’s

of criticism when he made a rape joke about

businesses. He is also thinking of imposing

mayor for seven terms for a total of 22

the Australian missionary by saying that as

changes on the areas of agriculture, health,

years. Duterte is credited for his ironclad

mayor he should have been the first one

and education by providing free irrigation,

leadership which transformed Davao from

to rape the victim. Known women’s rights

fertilizers, and seeds to farmers, requiring

being the “Murder Capital of the Philippines”

advocate Irene Santiago was quick to defend

hospitals to allow the admission of poor

into the “World’s Fifth Safest City” because

the mayor by saying that people should

patients through government payments,

of his zero tolerance for crime. Davao was

focus more on the projects that Duterte did

and by doubling the salaries of teachers.

also a recipient of other awards but Duterte

that aided women empowerment in Davao.

Duterte also advocated the conversion

refused to accept such because he insisted

Yet despite allegations and black

of the Philippine system of governance

that he was only doing his job as a city mayor.

propaganda about him being a foul-

to federalism. Federalism is a type of

Duterte was also known for introducing

mouthed murderer and womanizer, Duterte

government wherein power and authority

discipline into the lifestyles of Davaoeños

still arrived victorious and won the hearts

are allocated between the national and

through the following laws:

of 15,970,018 registered Filipino voters

local government units in such a way that

• Ordinance No. 1627 – prohibits

after repeatedly refusing to run for several

each unit is delegated a sphere of power

selling, serving, and drinking of alcoholic

months. Criticisms all throughout the

and authority only it can exercise while

beverages from 1:00 AM to 8:00 AM.

campaign period never overshadowed the

other powers must be shared. Duterte

• Executive Order No. 39 – reduces

accomplishments of the former mayor. As

strongly pushes for this conversion because

speed limits for all vehicles within the

what one Zamboangueño registered voter

he argues that local governments outside

jurisdiction of Davao.

said, “He’s willing to take risks. Matapang

Metro Manila contribute largely to the

pero may puso. Tumira ako sa Davao for 3

government’s economy yet unfairly receive

months at ang ganda talaga. Kung anong

small budget allocations. He stresses that

nakita ko sa Davao, gusto ko rin sana makita

it is about time that local government units

sa buong Pilipinas.”

handle their own budget for more efficient

• Executive Order No. 04 – AntiSmoking ordinance • Ordinance No. 060-02/1406-02 – Firecracker Ban • Women’s Development Code –

Moreover, what made him very

and effective local project implementations.

alluring to Filipino voters was his promise of

His term starts on June 30, 2016

• Anti-Discrimination Ordinance –

eradicating crime within three to six months.

and everyone hopes that change starts

prohibits discrimination against the LGBT

To achieve this goal, he promised to increase

on that day onwards. When asked on

community and other members of the

the salaries of policemen, modernize crime-

what to expect during Duterte’s six-year

minority.

fights against discrimination on women.

fighting strategies, bring back the ever-so-

term, Amara Abrina, a student leader from

However, his term of leadership

feared death penalty, pass the Freedom of

Ateneo de Davao University replied, “The

wasn’t embraced by everyone. Accusations

Information Act, impose strict surveillance

Philippines should expect discipline. The

have been thrown at Duterte for being the

on government offices, and to bring back

Philippines should be confident that Digong

mastermind of the Davao Death Squad, a

special criminal courts to bring justice to

sees our country not only for the rich, but

vigilante group that was responsible for

serious crime cases. Duterte’s platform

for all Filipinos who want to live peacefully.

the killings of criminals, drug traffickers,

also highlighted the importance of lifting

He creates avenues for all sectors of the

gang members, and other lawless elements.

the Philippine economy. He promised to

community to grow as better individuals.” F Fenomenal | 15

15 AdZU 1st Time Voters CAMPUS

Dominic Camins BS Accountancy - 3

Aseya Calo

Jordan Lascota

BS Accountancy - 5

BS Accountancy - 4

MEET: AdZU’s First-Time Voters

BY CHIN SICAT, CHRISTINE OBOY & GILLIAN MANALO PHOTOGRAPHED BY MOHAMMAD SARAJAN

n the 9th of May, 2016, the country once again witnessed history being made as the 2016 National Elections took place. Candidates and voters alike were giddy with excitement and anticipation. Flyers and tarpaulins covered every wall, billboard and post. Campaign jingles were sang, speeches were said and promises were made. The entire nation moved together and voted for change; young and old, rich and poor alike. The country’s newest addition to the voting population welcomed the highly anticipated and most awaited event of the year with strong visions of a Philippines that would finally rise up from the ashes of corruption and poverty. These first-time voters, despite having no previous knowledge of the process, exercised their right to suffrage in hopes of being a part of the change that was beginning to unfold. From Ateneo de Zamboanga’s very own population of first-time voters, the Beacon Publications has selected a few to share their first-hand experience of what it was like to participate in such a monumental occasion and what drove them to vote for their candidates of choice. These are their stories. An incoming Computer Engineering senior, Kenneth Chuacon relays his experience as a first-time voter as being fairly smooth and having no personal complaints on the registration process. He was saddened however that a lot of Zamboangueños were procrastinating, as the October deadline for registration approached and thousands of people were still unregistered. With the absence of a television set in his room, it was hard for Kenneth to draw his line-up of candidates. Nevertheless, he had his favors in mind. “My initial choice for Presidency was Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago and for Vice Presidency, it was Senator Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. In my opinion, they are the most prepared to take office in their respective positions. I personally did not think that the debates were the be-all, end-all for the elections since a lot of politicians can just manipulate people with words. However, this was the transitional period where I switched my choice for President to be Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. I believe that tough love works if necessary. I believe that Mayor Duterte has good plans for the future, although the means to get there may be questionable.” On how the actual experience of voting happened,

16 | Fenomenal

Kenneth shares that, despite there being a sign that cellular phones were not allowed in the precinct, he had managed to spot (and take a photo while outside his precinct) of someone inside using such a gadget. “What are rules nowadays to Filipinos? I don’t care if they are people of authority or not, nobody should be higher than the law.” Overall, he says that “the technicalities were good. The only problem I had during the election season was that there were some absurd citizens and the hypocrisy of the authority figures. In the end, I am proud to have exercised my right to suffrage.” Dominic Camins, an incoming 3rd year student said, “I was excited. Kasi first time voter, and first time ko maka-participate sa isang nationwide activity na makakatulong sa ating bansa.” He said he was hesitant to vote because of the crowd when they arrived in the voting area. Although there was this huge crowd, he found it easy to vote because he was clustered in a precinct with youngsters. He also experienced the failure of the vote counting machine. He was confident of leaving his voting sheet behind because the BEI are strict with procedures. In selecting the future leaders of our country, Dominic decided to weigh his two choices and base it on qualifications and maturity. A UF-Hope, NAMFREL, PPCRV volunteer and first time voter during the elections, Jordan Lascota, an incoming 4th year Accountancy student said that before the elections, he was agitated because he wanted the elections to end. As a voter, he noticed that the precinct didn’t value secrecy. He also witnessed two voters comparing their sheets. Aside from this, there was also shortage of secrecy folders, and errors of the vote counting machine, thus causing the BEI to pound on the vote counting machine to get it to work. He arrived at his candidates of choice through weighing the credibility and track records of the politicians from articles circulating in the Philippines. Over-all, he rated the 2016 national elections as 7 out of 10 due to the lack of preparation. An Accounting Technology senior, Ivan Balano’s experience of first-time voting was quite a different story. Growing up in a family that lived in the political light made the yearly elections a roller-coaster ride of emotions for her. “My father was running for Vice Mayor of Tungawan, a place admittedly not as safe as it used to be,” she shares, “so he had to leave each day to campaign. That made my

days and nights full of worrying for his safety.” On the days leading up to May 9th, the nerves kicked in again. She had watched all possible election-vrelated news and research online in preparation, but for her, the idea of voting for the first time seemed more unsettling than exciting. On Election Day, the entire family wished her father luck. “Even though we would much rather liked papa to lose the Vice Mayor race for the sake of our family’s safety, we still wished him luck during breakfast. We know how much he wanted to serve the people and it was selfish not to support that.” Ivan’s line-up was already drawn for her, as her father handed her and her sister sheets of paper of who to vote for. At the end of the day, she had exercised her right to vote. However, questions plagued her mind; “Did I make the right decisions?” She adds that, “ultimately, I know I did because I chose the people whom I believe, from the bottom of my heart, are best qualified to help make our nation better. I had a lot of doubts and it’s up to them to prove me right or wrong.” Aseya Calo, an incoming Accountancy senior, describes her first-time voting experience as knowing that she had to help make a difference in the nation. Months before, she had already researched her status as a voter, as well as her precinct location and room assignment. May 9th came, and she was lucky that finding her precinct was a breeze, as a map was provided. Waiting in line was equally easy. “There were more or less ten people before me, so mabilis lang talaga. Hassle-free.” The only downside was that the receipt drop box was a mere shoebox. On picking who to vote for, she opted for the best way: through research. “I looked for the one na hindi lang puro bola,” she explains. “I voted for the one I believed to be true, na gusto talagang tumulong sa Pilipinas at walang hawak kung sino man.” She adds that she also wanted candidates that were physically fit to do so. Being a first-time voter is definitely a feat, what with having no idea what to do and who to vote for. The need for change and the drive to be a part of a better Philippines, however, exceeds all the bittersweet-ness that is first-time voting. Despite the long queues, the blazing summer sun, the impatient voters cutting in line, and the technical difficulties and glitches, being able to play a major role in the 2016 National Elections is already a reward in itself. These first-time voters have contributed to changing the nation into one that could be better and stronger. F

CAMPUS

Bittersweet BAR 2015 Results BY JABE DAUD

n the recently released 2015 Bar Exam Results, only 1,731 or 26.21% of Law graduates passed out of the 6, 605 examinees who completed the tests on the four Sundays of November 2015. Out of these 1, 731 passers, Ateneo de Zamboanga University was fortunate enough to bag 5 spots out 15, with a passing rate of 35.71%. It’s a fair amount considering the examinees are the pioneering bar-takers of the Ateneo

College of Law. Sadly, they weren’t able to achieve the #15on2015 or the 100% rating Fr. Karel kept repeating during the sendoff bonfire last October. Attorney Bryan Anthony Zambo, one of the successful pioneers, unfortunately passed away in a vehicular accident weeks before the results were released. His wife, Charmaine Zambo, explains her husband’s recent passing to their daughter as an “eternal vacation with God.”

Bryan was supposed to be the first lawyer in the family, and he is. He fulfilled his dream of becoming one but sadly he wasn’t able to celebrate the news with his family. “The accident was so devastating for all of us. It was so sudden, and it was the worst day of our lives,” Charmaine told Inquirer. Charmaine and Bryan were together since high school and just marked their 10th anniversary last May 8. F

OSA Revamped BY AUDRIE SEPE • PHOTOGRAPHED BY ALESSANDRA LIM

hange: a word that has been in our mouths since eternity. We crave for change. We want an improvement. Over the years, the Office of Student Affairs headed by Stevan Dimaguila has set a remarkable standard in dealing with students’ non-academic activities and has been responsible in disciplining students. This year with the changes in the persons-in-

charge, what more can the OSA do? From being the director of the Alumni Relations and Development Office, Christine Calunod is now taking over the position as Director of the Office of Student Affairs. The two jobs may not really differ a lot since the Office of Alumni Relations and Development Office is the one in-charge of the relationship of the University and its Alumni. They also organize activities that produce revenue for the school. With this experience, she may be able to have a good a relationship with the students instilling in them discipline and responsibility so as they may be able to uphold the school’s core values. Moreover, she is capable in overseeing the students’ activities which are not academic-related. Together with her are Arlando Escultor, Marc Zuriel Rabanal, Hazel Fabian and Christopher Sarsoza. These office staffs are expected to cooperate with her in disciplining students in accordance with the school rules

within the student handbook. According to Calunod, no new rules are to be followed; instead, they will be stricter in enforcing the rules of the school. “I hope students will cooperate and understand,” said Calunod when asked about the implementation of rules. With this new approach in handling the OSA, Calunod envisions a more socially formed and engaged students. Their main goal is to strengthen student formation which includes leadership, spiritual and academic. For the next three years, it is expected that these goals will be achieved and that there would be a clear improvement in the students. The OSA can only do so much in enforcing rules but the cooperation of the students with this change is a must to have an improvement. Improvement does not only lie in the authority but it takes a cooperation and oneness of the community. Just like what Mahatma Gandhi had said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” F Fenomenal | 17

17 Senior High CAMPUS

Senior High the Ateneo Way: The Year of the Pioneers BY RIZANNA NARAG & KATHEREEN CACAYAN • PHOTOGRAPHED BY MOHAMMAD SARAJAN

rior to the implementation of K-12 that started way back in the year 2010, the Philippines had been the only nation in Asia, as well as one of the three remaining countries worldwide (alongside Djibouti and Angola) who adhered to the Basic Education Curriculum that offers only four years of Secondary Education. But with the coming of the new curriculum, an additional two years were added to the 10-year pre-university education system specifically, the Senior High School.

This year, all the Senior Highready schools all across the country had opened their doors to the Philippines’ pioneer batch of Senior High School students. Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) plays its part in the promotion of K-12 by expanding great efforts to bring AdZU Senior High School into existence. The school offers two tracks to all its incoming 11th graders: the Academic Track and the Technology, Vocational, and Livelihood (TVL) Track. Each Track then has several strands. Under the Academic Track, AdZU Senior High offers three Strands, namely the Science, Technology, 18 | Fenomenal

Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Strand, Accountancy, Business and Management (ABM) Strand, and Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) Strand. According to Rey Sebastian Reyes, the Senior High School Principal, the Senior High faculty is composed mostly from those in the tertiary level. “With the college and Senior High faculty in one place, we will be able to utilize the faculty of the tertiary units,” Reyes said. Ateneo de Zamboanga University, one of the highlighted schools in Zamboanga City to have already produced a campus for the Senior High

students according to the Department of Education (DepEd), had only 400 projected enrollees for this school year. Outstandingly, the AdZU Senior High School warmly accepted a total of 805 enrollees (as of June 16, 2016). STEM has the biggest population with 528 enrollees, followed by the ABM strand with 200 enrollees, then HUMSS where 65 students enrolled and lastly, the 2D Animation strand with 12 enrollees. The doubling of the number of the projected enrollees only means that the AdZU community holds a big influence on parents who wish their child a good quality education.

Scholarship grants were also offered to qualified SHS students including the ADZU Academic Scholarship (top one and top two Junior High Sschool completers), Top Ten in the Philippine Aptitude Classification Test (PACT), the Senior High School Voucher Program and other AdZU Private Scholarships. The AdZU-SHS campus is located on the grounds of the previous Grade School Complex in the AdzU La Purisima

campus. The SHS campus will occupy all 18 classrooms in the Kostka building to comply the 18 sections of the entire SHS pioneer batch. However, the Science and Computer laboratories will be shared by both the SHS and college students. It is a strategic place that gives access to all students coming from the west and east coasts compared to the Tumaga campus and it is near the downtown area.

Fenomenal | 19

Last June 13, 2016, the AdZU Senior High School community officially welcomed its first batch of Senior High students for the opening of classes. On its first day, the students were welcomed by the entire SHS faculty in the Multi-Purpose Covered Court (MPCC), alongside with a populace of college students who had a mini organization fair

for the Senior High students to introduce them to the possible counterparts of the college orgs in the SHS. An orientation seminar for the incoming SHS students was also held in the MPCC prior to the first day of classes in which they were welcomed by the Ateneo-SHS administration and faculty.

According to Reyes, the establishment of the AdZU Senior High is “the same as building a new school.” When asked whether the administration is confident that the first batch will be a success, he replied affirmatively, stating that even if this batch is the first, this is not, however, experimental. “We have been preparing for years and the school is ready to accept them [the students] in the institution.” F

20 | Fenomenal

REVIEWS 2016 SUMMERTIME HITLIST

MOVIE

X-Men: Apocalypse BY DARWIN LACBAO

ith two block-buster prequels in its shadows, we cannot help but expect the best of the best mutant action in third installment of the recent X-Men franchise featuring again James McAvoy as Professor X, Michael Fassbender as Magneto, Jennifer Lawrence as Mystique, and a whole lot of talented younger cast including daughter of Eddard Stark, Lord of Winterfell, Sansa Stark a.k.a Sophie Turner as the bad-ass phoenix empress, Jean Grey. The movie, directed by Bryan Singer, who also directed First Class and Days of Future Past, was released on May 27, 2016 and already earned $103.3 million over the fiveday weekend worldwide. The movie takes place a decade after the events of Days of Future Past. Over that time, Charles Xavier and Beast are taking in and teaching more gifted kids who are outcasts of the society. Magneto, on the sidelines, tried the ‘way’ of Professor X and lived a simple and normal life until Apocalypse – world’s first mutant, portrayed by Guatamelan-American actor Oscar Isaac, woke from his deep sleep and is planning to exterminate the world and build a better one with him as God with his god-like abilities. The Apocalypse plot is simple and straight forward. Right after the timetravelling shenanigans in DOFP, which, do not get me wrong, is pretty cool, and the relationship building in the first two movies, I am quite happy that they made Apocalypse a simple one with a few disappointments along the way. Perhaps one of the movie’s

shortcomings is how Apocalypse was introduced and ‘evolved’ in the movie. I believe that more character development and relationship-building events could have done to the villain along with his horsemen to make this amazing movie move even up a notch. It was portrayed as if Apocalypse wanted to destroy the world just because

of plain fun in a sense and not for a solid motivation and substance. Actually, the whole film focused less on relationships as how we only saw few scenes of intimacy between Xavier and Magneto which, I believe we all have missed. There is nothing as the same as the friendship of Professor X and Magneto. Although I quite liked the Magneto-family-Quick Silver- plot. At some point, I lost regards to the human life that has been affected and

devastated by the mutant war for the movie quite lack to show directly the effect of this war to humans. Humanity however showed in the acts of the X – Men on how they were willing to help humans even though the negative treatment that they received. The X – Men taking on Apocalypse and his four horsemen was too fun to watch that little care was casted on the death toll on humans and the destruction the war is creating to Earth. The action sequence was action-packed and the mutants battling it out was definitely super cool and fun to watch. One of the strongest aspects of this film is the introduction of new faces of old mutant heroes. In this film we are introduced to young Cyclops, Jean Grey, Quick Silver, Night Crawler, Storm, Pyslocke, Angel and many more. It was refreshing to watch the default roster of X-Men fighting it all out against the bad guys. Refreshing in a way that we got know their personalities a bit especially Quick Silver’s. Shout out to the sweet dreams scene! Mystique’s role was also given emphasis in this film. All in all, X-Men: Apocalypse may have a few short comings but overall, like a usual X-Men movie, it is good and would recommend it after all the election fuss that we have been through. It may not be as good as the previous two films, it still pars with the other superhero movies out there. One last thing, can someone tell Sansa touse her fiery phoenix mutant power in destroying Roose Bolton and the White Walkers because that would solve a lot of her problems at date. F Fenomenal | 21

2016 SUMMERTIME HITLIST

REVIEWS ALBUM

A Moon Shaped Pool

BY LEONETTE ANNE SADIOA

by Radiohead

ompared to heavy metal rock or any type of genre that

hit the “Creep.” The track served as the salvation for this album

has emerged today, which only have dope electro beats

since many critics say that the album is a weak product of music.

to be used in rave parties, a lot of screaming or rapping

The song depicted a strong message about engrossing you’re not

which is completely identical with how your mom does

good enough for someone and being hopelessly romantic. But the

when you don’t answer her calls, and lyrics which contained words

real story behind this was about Yorke’s admiration with a stranger

you do not understand except for twerk, werq and *toot*… you

who he was deeply infatuated about but she was out of his league,

know the rest— alternative music has its own story to tell. Alternative music has always been making its huge splash over the years, staying strong since the 1980s. Nirvana made its breakthrough and has set the stage by

according to a source. Other albums released over the years are The Bends (1995), Ok Computer (1997), Kid A (2000) to name a few. This year, Radiohead released their comeback album, The Moon

introducing this genre towards such

Shaped Pool (2016), which marks

musical mainstream audience, all

their resurrection after five years

caught up with heavy metal rock,

of silence, since the last release of

disco or dance-pop. My Chemical

their album in 2011. Their latest

Romance, Red Hot Chili Peppers,

album had caused an enormous

to name a few bands, gained their

wave after its release. Radiohead

popularity due to its prominence

has been altering their style. It is a

and stole the heart of a huge mass of musically-inclined fans because of their poetic style of composition. Besides these prevalent mentioned bands that have risen and is still being listened to until today, Radiohead is on the list. Wait, Radiohead who? Just a trivial history about this peculiar band: composed of

kind of meditative treatment which was beautifully crafted into pile of piano and guitar that could definitely put you on a dreamlike situation. But this isn’t your ordinary lullaby which will lull one to sleep. It would also cause nightmares because of its deep lyricisms that would indeed put one over the edge.

Tom Yorke on vocals, Johnny Greenwood on lead guitar, Ed O’brien

In general, music need not be filled with exquisite beats or

also on guitar and Colin Greenwood on bass, English alternative

such singers who’s already conquering (mainstream) the top charts.

rock band Radiohead was first formed over usual Friday rehearsals

There are tons out there, including Radiohead, which could provide

in their school’s music room which justified with their authentic

one’s music therapy needs despite being underrated. It’s the lyrics

band name “On a Friday.”

that count. It’s the amount of feels that makes you shiver every

In total, Radiohead was able to spawn 9 albums. Pablo Honey,

single time you play a song that may remind you of something or

their debut album released in 1993, reached its peak of popularity,

that just simply makes you sappy. It must go beyond me, beyond

ranked at Number 22 in the UK Billboard Hits with its well-known

you. And they’d be happy to serve you, through music.

22 | Fenomenal

2016 SUMMERTIME HITLIST 2016 SUMMER HITLIST • REVIEWS

REVIEWS TRACK

Middle (feat. Bipolar Sunshine)

BY HASMINA ALFAD

by DJ Snake

e partied along Turn Down For What, felt the festivity of Lean On, now DJ Snake (born with the name William Grigahcine) is back again with the track Middle as his first single for his upcoming debut album (SPOILER ALERT: it might be out before December). His collaboration with British singer Bipolar Sunshine (whose real name is Adio Marchant) gives us a whiplash from what DJ Snake usually does, you know, the whole upbeat, fast tempo kind of EDM. With Middle starting in percussion and gradually adding bass and the smooth somber voice of Bipolar Sunshine, it’s quite similar to the technique used in Justin Bieber’s What Do You Mean. Then again, there’s more to it than just the good vocal, Skrillex and Diplo’s collaborative Where Are U Now has a different technique which is to take the vocal of Bieber (in this case Bipolar Sunshine’s) and pitching it up, distorting it to create a whole new sound that becomes the whole song.

As an added bonus, the music video stars Hunger Games’ very own Josh Hutcherson and Dope star Kiersey Clemons in a superhero-themed tragic love story. As Josh’s masked face is in red, black and white paint, he’s also alone and misunderstood. That is until he met Kiersey, and together they soar the city and scale buildings sideways at the same time, dodging the judgmental stares of people. Everything seemed romantic and happily ever after—until the twist comes in and Josh’s heart is shattered. Well at least they had and enjoyed each other while it lasted. Let’s not forget how the trend began when iTunes Philippines announced that Middle was the most downloaded song during this summer. The track also stayed in the number one spot for almost three weeks on MusicWeekly. And there’s good old Spotify where we can always take advantage of their Premium privileges every now and then, which named Middle one of the most streamed music in the span of just two weeks. F Fenomenal | 23

19 Top 10 Election Playlist

REVIEWS 2016 SUMMERTIME HITLIST

SERIES

Descendants of the Sun BY JESSANELL SEVILLA

he latest Korean drama that swept Asia and have hit the peak of K-drama fever brought a newfangled and different level of romance. Descendants of the Sun (DotS) recounts a star-crossed relationship between a soldier and a surgeon which attained millions of fans and praise all over Asia, got a high rating, was sold to 27 countries and was translated into 32 various languages, which is now the biggest K-drama phenomenon. The viewers’ obsession was appeased by the casts’ exceptional look, the picturesque location, astonishing cinematography, and awardwinning acts. These aspects set the benchmark of beauty of the entire story. In fact, this is just what it’s all about – The Visual, as to what really won the attention, hearts, and appraisal of many. It’s the beauty and handsomeness of the casts that made the fans all crazy with goggly heart-eyes about the drama. Who wouldn’t be in awe by the A-list Korean actors starring Song Joong-Ki that will make you squeal like a love-struck highschool girl and Song Hye-Kyo with that ethereal loveliness? And to butter it up, its story is unlike any other in the field of K-drama. It is rare but plain, breathtakingly beautiful but shallow. To be specific, it is a plainly shallow drama/story. The story was not that bad but it wasn’t a good one either. Not bad in a sense of the way they flirt with each other with some corny or cheesy lines and jokes, the irony of the two leading soldiers’ characters – being all tough and fearless with their job but too fragile and timid being caught red-handed by their female partners, and most significantly the characters’ patriotism which will lead you to a notion that both the 24 | Fenomenal

hero and heroine were cheating on each other with their own work. Their job is the third party in the relationship. This makes the series more inducing to watch – how the drama projects the danger and sacrifice that the real life service men and women face for their country and its people. However, such moments are a rarity. Most of the parts were just supplemented without having any real narrative purpose added by all those plot

holes which made the story superficial. Others possibly didn’t put too much of importance to it but the general flow, if there was any, of the drama was first is falling in love, then coming across trials that holds them from being together, and lastly an ending that exhibits moretrials-will-come-but-still-lived-happily-everafter kind of finale. Its cliché-ness is oozing all

over. However, it being cliché have been patched up given that it was a fresh and foreign one since there’s nothing like it in the K-drama – the pairing of a surgeon and a soldier, with the exemption of Faith starring Lee Min-Ho since it was a supernatural story, means nothing, for now. However, the narrative between the second couple was more profound and meaningful than the leading pair. The characters and lines of the latter were brilliantly made - like the heroine’s boldness towards Si-Jin, which most of a story’s female characters infrequently have. But it doesn’t sit well with their story. The make-believe reality and emotional weight that surrounds the story of DotS what won billions of viewers. The humor, suspense, romance, and action were well-intact. The blend of different genres was edible to partake but not that perfect unlike what others have been boasting about. On the other hand, the music itself also slayed the hearts of many. Hence, it sends out the heartwarming ambiance in the series. Lastly, its most-awaited ending was very bland. Let’s admit it. “Descendants of the Sun” is just about the eye candy on the screen. It was mostly sold by the casts’ pretty little faces. Imagine if it was a published book without having to see all the visuals – the scenery and specially Joong-Ki and the other actors and actresses, then this story will just rot in a shelf of a bookstore waiting to be bought by someone. It’s one of those overrated Korean dramas that are not worth the hype. There are some parts of it are worth to be watched on repeat. Nonetheless, if you are one of those who love to be in tandem with the bandwagon and just throw aside the drama’s shallowness and plot holes then enjoy watching it while it’s still hot! F

2016 SUMMER HITLIST • INSTAJACK