The BEACON Publications - Year-end Special by The BEACON Publications

Volume 69 Issue 4

Volume 69 Issue 3

editorial board

table of

CONTENTS How kcc redefined zc

pan de sal wars

We, the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Milliesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

A Lenten reflection: THE Gift or the giver

the choice 2016

choosing the next president via facebook

k12: of anxieties and uncertainties

the beacon icons

win some, lose some

the heroes of atfest

Up up and away: Tuiton fee increase once more

The Charm chart

The eca we need

The beacon Report card

Editor in Chief: Trisha Ortega Internal Managing Editor: Irene Wahab External Managing Editor: John Xyrious Dela Cruz Features Editor: Franco Rivas Cananea News Feature Editor: Kent Kerby Bayona News Editor: Fathima Ahamed Kabeer Deputy Internal Managing Editor: Ciara Mae Obillo Deputy External Managing Editor: Christine Therese Oboy Associate Features Editor: June Karlo Suan Associate News Features Editor: Christianne Dawn Sicat Associate News Editor: Fatima Mandangan Finance Officer: Arjay Jumawan Communications Officer: Jessanell Sevilla Physical Property and Maintenance Officer: Shorwayne Chua Auxiliary Corps: Monique Praico, Joyce Sophia Carpitanos

Associate Editor for Reveille: Aseya Khadija Calo Writers: Keith Joshua Dumpit, Neilson Nick Alinsangan, Mia Falcasantos, Aeon Abad, John Dexter Canda, Leonette Sadioa, Al Asmad, Aisha Ibrahim, Bianca Roma de Leon, Charmine Bannister, Hasmina Alfad, Anne Falcasantos, Candeline Galvan, Abdelaziz Maldisa, Clark Punzalan, Darwin Lacbao, Diego Esperat, Harmony Lucero, Dave Cervas

Associate Editor for SINAG: Pristine Janielle Padua Writers: Jorace Martini Dayrit, Ivon Macapla, Amira Solaiman, Alymrah Anuddin, Gillian Manalo, Loren Justo, Mark Macaso, Irene Wahab, Rizanna Narag, Putli Amilbangsa, Audrie Keith Sepe, Jamila Becca Daud, Charle Kent Lim, Mary Kathereen Cacayan, Nehemiah Araojo, Katleen Tampos, Therese Duterte The BEACON Atelier Creative Director: Bianca Alyana Zamora Head Cartoonist: Ioneebel Garcia Head Photographer: Lea Alessandra Lim Cartoonists: Fahad Alfad, Patricia Denise Apolinario, Hazel Rosie Bayaras, Roderick Mendoza Jr., Christopher Tabula, Jonie Alaban, Alana Lois Alano, Deanna Rose Bucoy, Joshua Cabrezos, Nica Franz Visitacion Photographers: Ivan Emmanuel Bokingkito, Darrylene Clemente, Ryan Covarrubias, Yves Xaviery Valerio, Mark Phillip Ycaza, Roseller Gyle Samong, Mohammad Sarajan Layout Artists: Jamie Catherine Go, Ray Andrew Santiago, Eleazar Torres, Lord John Luza Moderator: Mr. Marion Guerrero

EDITORIAL

For the past ten months, being the Editor-in-Chief was a title and responsibility that incessantly lingered on me as a reminder. It was a title that I considered more of as a challenge than a badge of glory. As I finally come down from my post, let me take this opportunity to mention the people whom without who’s support, the publishing of ten issues would not have been deemed possible.

To the Class of 2016

Values beyond Graduation:

To The BEACON Publications, I feel so blessed to have been given the privilege of working with some of the finest writers, illustrators, photographers, and layout artists in the Ateneo. As we approach our 70th Year, may we constantly labor to serve as true beacons of enlightenment to our beloved publisher –the Ateneo de Zamboanga student body.

Living Up to the Atenean Character

BY SENIOR WRITER KEITH JOSHUA DUMPIT

ollege is meant to prepare an individual as he enters into a new arena which demands greater independence and deeper commitment. The beauty of having been under the tutelage of Ateneo educators is the conditioning they nurture in their students to be sensitive to others’ needs and interests and to serve others even more than what is required. Indeed, all throughout college we were taught concepts such as magis and cura personalis, which serve as standards of character in the Ateneo. Abstract as they are, these values are encouraged in every Atenean, but they lack concretization as some fail to embody them as much as the school wants them to. The thing is, however, the same values find application even as the students graduate and leave the walls of the Ateneo. The world of employment is a jungle: it can stretch you, bend you and, even, break you. But when you are equipped with the necessary emotional and spiritual reinforcement as that given in the Ateneo, the environment becomes bearable. All those unending thesis and feasibility study revisions and failed examinations are now behind the graduates’ minds, but what they can take from the experience is the resilience that kept them going, and that same resilience is needed as they face the bigger challenges of the workplace. It is better to look at school work not as weapons of torment, but as training implements for the bigger and tougher world beyond the campus. Magis and Cura Personalis are two definitive Ateneo concepts, and they are as relevant beyond graduation as they are in the undergraduate. Teachers do appreciate when students give a hundred and ten

percent of their efforts to what is asked of them, no matter how their peers see it, and the same attitude is similarly, even more, appreciated in the workplace.

To the new Editorial Board, congratulations! I do wish you success in your future endeavors. I am positive that the publication is in good hands through your leadership. I bid you Godspeed in your continuous education in campus journalism.

In the same way, for a person to succeed in his or her employment, he or she must know how to respect his colleagues and to establish profound working relationships among themselves. The same preparation is seen in school, as feasibility studies and even occasional group works teach students how to interact and communicate with others in a group as they work for a collective aim.

To our readers, my utmost gratitude for all your support. We may have encountered failures and triumphs but in the true spirit of magis, we shall take these experiences as an inspiration to persevere more, to do more, and be more. I hope you could join us in 2016, in the 70th year of The BEACON Publications – 70 years of being your voice and your light. TRISHA CAMENFORTE ORTEGA EDITOR IN CHIEF A.Y. 2015-2016

Furthermore, the school has always instilled in us the value of being men and women for others, of being sensitive to the needs of others and of helping them in their endeavors. Even as we leave the Ateneo, the responsibility remains and becomes bigger, as the stakes become higher and a greater interest is involved. Strong relationships with peers are even more important in the workplace as they are in school, and it is in one’s ability to excellently relate with others upon which great careers are built.

For four years, The BEACON has carried my name as its moderator –it does so for the last time in this issue. In that length of time, the responsibility appended on my signature was not a facile role to dispose. It required a copious amount of sheer will to realize objectives. It demanded a surplus of patience to understand complex issues. It obliged a higher degree of fortitude to hurdle challenges. Thus, behind every article, photograph and illustration is a narrative that taught values and shaped characters.

College is like an extensive send-off ceremony for students as they are propelled into a wider field of challenges and successes. It is important to remember that the Ateneo only prepares us for the battle, and being products of the school, in some capacity we become its representatives whose actions become reflections of how the academe has molded us to become mature, self-assured and selfless individuals.

In all of those four years, I was privileged to be in mentorship and friendship with the best and the brightest of the Ateneo student community. To this day, I am in awe of their unrivaled dedication to their craft, their outstanding work ethic amidst the limitations imposed by campus life, and their inspiring humility to admit mistakes. They learn, I too learn. This educational symbiosis has earned both my utmost respect and gratitude.

It is this character that we bring with us as we soar to greater heights and this same character bestowed upon us by the Ateneo is not something that is easily lost, but something that becomes a part of us forever.

A service that spanned four editors-in-chief –Kelvin Culajara, Sarah Gail Galvan, John Xyrious Dela Cruz and Trisha Ortega –I punctuate with a salute. To the young men and ladies of The BEACON, remain steadfast in your vaunted commitment: to be light and voice. The 70th Year of The BEACON harkens, and a promising future is yours for the taking. You are all in my prayers. Always.

Mr. Dumpit finished BS Accountancy cum laude. He was with The BEACON for five years, and served once as its Associate Editor.

MARION B. GUERRERO MODERATOR 2012-2016

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THE BEACON

REPORT CARD BY LEONETTE SADIOA AND IRENE WAHAB

n everything we do, we do for a reason. Like people, organizations also do things for a purpose. Every constituted organization in educational institutions is created for a common goal: to serve the student body and the community. Their purpose is their reason for existence. Without a purpose, there is simply no point.

How KCC Redefined ZC BY NEHEMIAH ARAOJO AND ANNE FALCASANTOS

s 9:00 a.m. draws near, the intersection by the Camins Road is being filled with the cacophony of honks and beeps. The setting delivers the image of long lines of different vehicles awaiting for the countdown in blazing red numbers to be replaced by the green shade of traffic lights, urging the drivers of the different vehicles to up their speed. The green light raises the spirit of the drivers, but soon, some of them find their spirits being dampened once more. Drivers who will be taking Nuñez Street face another constraint as they find themselves stuck in another traffic jam taking place near the KFC and EMCOR. This scene takes a replay in the late afternoon as both drivers and passengers catch themselves in heavy road congestion.

Despite the traffic issue, it cannot be denied that since its opening on December 10, KCC (or Koronadal Commercial Corporation) has in a way altered the lifestyle of Zamboangueños and even residents in neighboring towns and provinces –KCC Mall de Zamboanga is after all, the largest mall in the whole of Zamboanga Peninsula. Because of KCC, we now see Sta. Maria and Canelar Airport jeepneys plying beyond 8 p.m. and much to the chagrin of the riding public, tricycles have upped their negotiating skills, too. Because of KCC, we can now watch Hollywood films in their 3D glory and with more cinemas screening more film options. Besides an interior that mimic legit malls in more progressive cities, KCC brought in stores that Zamboanga City has never hosted before. Moreover, the implementation of the use of bonus cards ala SM Malls, the form of incentive that the KCC extends, proves to be quite an attractive offer as it draws people to avail the cards. The bonus card allows for every 200 pesos worth of purchase(s) to be converted to a single point. The accumulated points come in handy when one falls short in delivering the payment for particular transactions. However, that is not the real catch |4

of the bonus cards. The real catch is the participation in the highly-anticipated raffle draws (not to mention the grand cash prizes). With the hopes of being the next recipient of the raffle prizes, most Zamboangueños sure do cooperate with the KCC’s plan of establishing a very interactive system with its consumers. Another game plan of KCC that charmed its consumers is its unique effort of bringing Filipino celebrities closer to Zamboangueños. It is not every day that the local residents get to have the chance to personally see the87% people they see on screen. That is why when opportunity presents itself, Zamboangueños quickly grab a VIP or a general admission ticket (by purchasing goods from the KCC Department Store) for the chance to have a close-up view of the artist(s) that they wanted to see. In an almost weekly fashion, KCC has featured more celebrities in a month than the total number Zamboanga City has seen in five years. Looking at things from the perspective of the KCC Administration, they speak of the pressures that KCC is YES experiencing in terms of management of the supply chains and finding out better ways of providing customers the goods and services that would match their rising expectations. KCC has learned two important things: consumer preference and growth. As an entity which promises unrivaled quality, KCC has learned the secrets of the trade in terms of matching consumer’s likes and dislikes. Its polite employees, the helpful staff assisting in the grocery, its convenient department store and incentiving raffle draws are all efforts coming from its hard-earned lessons from its past experience with its customers. As to growth, KCC’s continuous renovation of its parking lot promises a more spacious and convenient area for its customers. KCC has also begun a construction of its hotel at the back of its mall as another milestone for this year and the coming years. KCC looks forward as it sails onto unchartered horizons ferrying with it a passenger of Zamboangueños from here and beyond.

74%

YES

The objective of The BEACON Publications is to be the voice and the light of the student body. It aspires to be a voice that is heard, a voice that is listened to. It has been in74% existence for 70 years now and though it has achievements and it still commits mistakes. Nonetheless, it continues to thrive.

With more than 200 respondents, not everyone reads the published works of the BEACON, though it has a wide reach (89.6%). As to meeting the expectations of the readers, there are a distinguishable number of disappointments. While 74 percent said that their expectations have been met, 18.8 percent of the respondents believe that The BEACON failed them. The other 7.1 percent are standing halfway, saying they were 19% not entirely impressed, but were also not disappointed. The presence of Another school year has come to an end and it is time yet The BEACON 7%Publications as a student organization was substantially 19% again to look back and evaluate all the things that were said and felt, garnering an 87.7 percent positive response from the respondents. 7% the year. We conducted a survey on how readers see done during Asked on which issue they liked the most, majority (92%) The BEACON’s performance as a student publication. Here are cited the ECA Elections Special. This particular edition covered The the results: BEACON’s assessment of the El Consejo Atenista administration of other Emmanuelle Bantay. Incidentally, the same issue was chosen as the most No YESdid you Did you read the published For SY 2015-2016, disappointing, with one respondent saying, “Even though the content other No workS of The BEACON feel the presence of The BEAspeaks the truth, the way it was written is [sic] very inhumane. It feels like Publications for the school CON Publications as a student The BEACON is hitting under [sic] the belt.”

year 2015-2016?

organization?

87%

90%

13%

13% 10%

YES

Did The BEACON meet your expectation/s as to the quality of their published work?

74% 19% 7%

YES

90% In the survey we also collected comments. As expected, there were suggestions, commendations, as well as criticisms. These feedbacks were read and studied by The BEACON’S outgoing and incoming Editorial Board. This is an opportunity to grow, an area to be better. We also received a query on the cost of the every published work of The BEACON. Every semester, a student pays 75Php for the 10% university’s official student publication. These are the cost of what we gave you:

Fenomenal Marejada ‘14 No SINAG YES Mélange The BEACON Magazine The BEACON Reveille The AtFest Special Issue The ECA Elections Special Issue

(Jun) (Jul) (Sep) (Sep) (Oct) (Nov) (Dec) (Feb)

Php 188 108 24 60 59 35 77 70

The BEACON Facebook page will attend to any additional inquiries regarding the handling of funds. One can also submit their questions via email (beaconpublications@adzu.edu.ph).

other |25

The

Pan de Sal Wars

ECA

WE NEED

BY KATLEEN TAMPOS AND JUNE KARLO SUAN

n 2014, slurping firm black balls with white creamy liquid was all the hype. Yup, two years ago, everyone was hysterical about milkteas and its chewy tapioca balls. So excessive was the craze that milktea cafes were spontaneously sprouting everywhere like zits on a hormonal pubescent boy. What more is that Instagram became an endless exhibit of hands awkwardly gripping bulky milktea cups because apparently those were worth all the likes and VSCO filters. Then again, because walang forever, eventually the milktea was forgotten. And just like the fickle little children that we all are, it wasn’t long until a new obsession took the dough. This time, literally –2015 marked the year that the modest pan de sal had everyone in Zamboanga City fall in line. Again, literally. For whatever reason, people became all about hot buns. Maybe their inner anacondas awoken and did not want none unless they got buns, hun. Or maybe an anime character somewhere defeated the evil boss through the power of nakama and obtained the holy bread relic or whatever, we’ll never know. Anyhow, akin to perfectly baked pastry, some pan de sals have charted one brand over the other and up goes the new breakfast club. These are brands that we shall now overly hype with exhaustive use of adjectives in this bread-appreciation article. We hope you’ll loaf it. *insert laugh Disclaimer: The following text is but the opinions of the writers having taste-tested and scrutinized the various pan de sals of a number of branches. The authors would like to note that they may have consumed more bread than was healthily acceptable. You know what happens if you eat too much bread? You get fat. Bread makes you fat.

Ha o Na pan de sal

To someone who has never tasted nor seen Ha O Na, much like the author before being assigned to this article, high expectations are in place. You get this idea of a hefty ambrosial piece of dough with literal sparkles floating around that will make you tear up from the first bite. Needless to say, the author was not expecting a meek lump the size of a two-year-old’s fist. Ha O Na pan de sal, apparently, is not the stereotypical ideal bread with princess-like whiteness and pure texture. It is a hearthy brown and compact mass of dough. Tearing the piece apart proves more resistance than is expected and one can see the interior has with it densely packed bubbles of yeasty pockets. Odor-wise, Ha O Na has a subtle aroma of deep mulled wine with hints of earthiness that goes along with its taste as you bite. Only after tasting Ha O Na did the authors understand the appreciation people have for it. The pan de sal does not rudely invade one’s taste buds but is instead a genteel visitor, elevating its flavour with each chew. The flavour is not overly sweet but balanced in just the right way. Knowing that people actually fell in long lines for this pan de sal, one might be able to say that – it’s worth the wheat. *insert laugh

Shirogi pan de sal First of all, the author would just like to ask: what is it with these new pan de sal brands and Japanese themes? Like, why? Is it because there really was an ancient bread relic and an anime character got hold of it? Or is there a group of weaboos in the bread industry? Anyhow, Shirogi

pan de sal generally resembles Ha O Na appearance-wise with exception to the fact that it is not as bronzed. Shirogi may be likened to Ha O Na’s pale little sister that aspires to become just like her. However, unlike her sister which is firm and unyielding, Shirogi has a certain extent of softness whilst as dense. Shirogi’s interior can be observed to be more airy with slightly larger pores or bubbles. Moreover, Shirogi has a more understated fragrance – a perfume of human skin, like the smell of washed-out beige. The author would like to believe that that description is not weird at all. While Ha O Na’s fragrance hints its taste, Shirogi’s does not. It is exceptionally lighter than Ha O Na not just aesthetically but also flavour-wise. Shirogi possesses a shy sweetness that you find in every bite.

Kambal Pandesal

Kambal Pandesal has this appearance of what looks like an average-sized bread cleaved in the middle but not all the way through to look like conjoined twins, although not as grotesque. Given the fact that this brand does not use wheat flour unlike Ha O Na and Shirogi, and people don’t usually appreciate “common” things, this tells us that this is really good pan de sal. Kambal Pandesal has that generic pan de sal look and feel. It is much more delicate and fairly less compact than the former two, which are too heavy for their small size. However, unlike the expected return of the bread to its original integrity upon the impression of a finger, it remains flat. Like one small “pichi” only and it doesn’t rise back up. No fun at all. Kidding. Children, do not play with your food. Kambal Pandesal gives off waves of sharp sun-baked tang with a trace of crisp toast. It proves to be deceitful in that it feels soft and looks smooth but actually somewhat resists being torn apart becoming stringy and stretchy. If you were an unsuspecting dunce like the author, biting into the bread might be a little surprising. Anticipating the smell, Kambal Pandesal assaults your taste buds at the first contact with a yellowy and elastic sourness that shoots up into your nasal orifice. It’s like being stabbed in the mouth with a shank dipped in hydrochloric acid and a little lemon to taste. Not only that but after the initial sensation has subsided, you receive a departing aftertaste of charred flour which isn’t too urgent in going away. Then it all fades, leaving a brief memory of flavour and a slightly dry feeling in your mouth.

‘D Master’s Now let’s talk medieval and remember how these trendy bread brawls were once but modest pieces of stuffed dough and pioneers of brown paper bags. Upon hearing the name “Master’s” what comes into our minds are the throng of tasty, over the top filled Pan de Monggo and Pan de Coco which are practically 90 percent monggo preserves and 10 percent bread crust. Even though they look like bunch of plain, fat, boring breads in the outside, never underestimate what these siopao-wannabes can suppress. They hold a great amount of filling which alone can be enough to keep you full for couple days. This combo is much appreciated for their sweet and muggy surface that would have you licking the trace of yellow coconut crumbs off your fingers once it’s finished. The taste of monggo after the first chew will definitely keep you wanting more until bits of the brown blobs gets stuck up between your teeth. Perhaps nothing could go wrong if one doesn’t mind its high tolerance of non-wheat? And besides, what is more amazing than a bakery that never sleeps? 7/11 who? |05

BY MIA CARRO FALCASANTOS AND ABDELAZIZ MALDISA

his year’s El Consejo Atenista elections are surprising for many reasons: First, no presidential and vice-presidential candidates were fielded. Second, only two student orgs: AAO and NAO elected a fresh set of youth leaders. For more than two years already, we have dabbled in student politics characterized by apathy and low voter turnout. The dismal showing presented to us by this year’s version of the El Consejo Atenista elections (No CSITAO , LAAO candidates, other candidates losing by lack of voter turnout) leads us to a dilemma, more accurately presented in the question: “What does it take to revitalize ECA?” The answer for us is more visibility. Confronted by issues such as a seemingly indifferent student body, the next set of ECA leaders should ramp up their efforts to make the student populace aware of their platforms and agendas, organize other awareness events and refresh their traditional events calendar. The student body is used to dance parties, social events, and forums. Why not take a detour and organize competitions? Quiz bees during National Women’s Month for example. Everyone likes incentives, and cash prizes are a surefire way of attracting people to join. In this matter, ECA gains publicity. In such a way, they’ll get a chance in making more students involved with their activities, and foster a culture of intellectualism a Jesuit university should encourage in the first place. In addition, the ECA we need is an ECA representative of the whole student body. And this equal representation will not happen when the student body is apathetic, a product of dissatisfaction with the current system. To address this, student participation is key and the next generation of leaders should bear in mind the mistakes of the past and learn from them. In Philippine politics, personality is vital. And in the Ateneo de Zamboanga, this holds true. Well-meaning leaders mean nothing to the general public if they’re not visible enough. ECA leaders should interact more with their constituents in order to promote their agenda. In addition, they should cultivate potential leaders ready to take on the helm of the next ECA administrations. For this article, we interviewed this year’s new set of AAO and NAO leaders alongside other organization leaders and quizzed them on their priorities next school year and their frank assessment of the outgoing ECA admin. Yousef Cali, AAO Governor, said that commitment, a strong sense of responsibility, and duty is what he found lacking and what he would like to rectify in his administration. They tend to take their responsibilities lightly thinking that there are no consequences involved. His vice-governor, Rhea Hamin, further stresses that ECA lacked in catering to the AdZU studentry’s needs. They stray from the more important issues that face the students and focus on the less important. They need to set their priorities straight, because at one point students’ rights were not given importance and there were no actions carried out to solve this. Take for example the long anticipated Student Magna Carta. “They implemented (the) Magna Carta, but there are no evidences provided that students were able to utilize it properly...” -Jasmine Sandag, NAO Governor. Yet, most of all, it boils down to one fundamental issue. ECA will not be effective if its constituents are uncooperative. Part of the blame lies on the student body for disregarding student politics on campus, yet most of the blame could be shifted to ECA’s sultry track record, a reason for a feeling of disenfranchisement in general felt by the student populace. An urgent issue the next admin should resolve. “What they lack most is stimulating students’ involvement on school activities in order for us not to be apathetic towards the ECA as a student government.” –Nicole Ong Chua, ARO President

Why is this so? Why are so many students apathetic toward |24

ECA and the activities they hold? This is because we do not feel that they were actually doing something. If they were, we would know at some point and we would be drawn toward them. That’s the problem, we were not. We asked the same student leaders to give us suggestions on how ECA can improve upon their visibility. The AAO Governor gave us three points to ponder on: (1) Always find avenues to serve the students. Leave no idle time. The students are paying for the office to function. The Ateneo de Zamboanga University deserves the best crop of student leaders in order to address primary concerns and serve as our voice in campus issues. Dedication to the job and not mere figurehead leaders are urgently needed. (2) Involve students in activities that encourage participation in matters that concern them and the Filipino nation. It has been mentioned over and over that, other than the dance parties, social events, and forum routines, the ECA should add something new that can gain the students’ involvement for at least a year (not just one night in a party or one day in a forum). The ARO President shares the same sentiments when she said, “Aside from doing the traditional yearly activities, one way on improving ECA’s visibility in the university is by conducting new activities which would put a great interest to the students and will stimulate them to invite their friends in joining a particular activity. In this way, students would be less apathetic on ECA.” (3) Try. Even if the office ends up with minimal student participation, what matters is it did something. It’s still miles away from just sitting in hopelessness. We share the same sentiments here that ECA should at least try to come up with something refreshing, something surprising that would capture the minds and imaginations of every Atenean on campus. Call us idealistic, but we need a miracle right now to ramp up student participation. Another point was given by the NAO Governor, (4) ECA can improve through coordinating properly with the different AO heads, so that the AO heads could help them advertise their activities to the student body. As with everything vital to the upkeep of every political structure, communication is paramount. Help one another in improving and building a more vibrant and livelier Ateneo student community. Pillar del Cielo Cabanlit, EcoWatch President supported this point when she said, “ECA should conduct more sensible projects aside from the usual parties. It would be great if they reach out to other organizations and collaborate with them in their projects or programs.” Rating ECA’s performance this year, all leaders gave a dismal 2/5 to the outgoing administration. The El Consejo Atenista we need is an administration filled with dedicated leaders. More than the conviction to take on the helm of the student leadership, the ECA we need is an ECA that genuinely cares for our concerns, who’ll rise up to the challenge and truly represent our ideals and aspirations on campus, who’ll fight for our rights as students, and truly be a representative of the diverse Ateneo de Zamboanga University student body.

Alison Gail Maravilla School of Liberal Arts

We, the ‘Millies’ BY KATHEREEN CACAYAN AND FATIMA MANDANGAN

his generation that we are in, those born approximately between the early 1980s and early 2000s, is the most studied generation to date and for that, we have been called so many things in the last decade. TIME magazine describes our generation as narcissistic, overconfident, entitled and lazy, but they also said that our ‘Me, Me, Me Generation’ just might be the new ‘Greatest Generation.’ The invention of the front camera and Musical.ly made us the narcissists we are today. When we were little, it seemed cute when we were called ‘special’ or a princess or a rock star or whatever our T-shirt says we were, but when we turned 14, it was no longer cute. There were early discoveries that indicated kids with high self-esteem did well in school and were more averse to be stuck in unfortunate situations. It’s just that we missed out the fact that selfesteem is actually a result, and not a cause. The problem is that when people try to boost their self-esteem, they accidentally boost narcissism instead. Whatever we, the Millennials, do or consume, we all just want to feel special, because so many of us have been treated special all of our lives. It’s almost as if we require a constant drizzle of compliments and acknowledgments to remain motivated or at least stop fidgeting. This perception is at the hard stub of the hatred against our era—the idea that we are a ruined, entitled army who expect prizes only to show up, mope when deficiently petted, and never go anyplace without slathering on rich layers of self-esteem. We, the Millies, have also come of age in the era of the appraised self— posting our daily meals on Instagram, our whereabouts every hour of every day on Facebook and every love quarrels on Twitter. We have less civic engagement and lower political interest than any past era. The presence of social media and the

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She has the qualities that every girl wants: the height, the beauty and the personality. A senior AB- IS student, Alison, is a legit national model. She started modeling when she was 12 years old. Accordingly, she was approached by a hairdresser and was asked if she was interested in joining pageants. Though hesitant, she accepted the offer and it totally changed her life. Being a student and a model at the same time is very hard but it’s really a matter of priorities, she said, and her priority right now is to finish her studies. Aside from modeling, she loves cooking and being a chef someday is her dream. An advice from this beautiful lady: “Be you. Don’t be afraid to try something new.”

evolution of science have turned us into these WIFi-and-technology-dependent bums. We are interacting all day but almost entirely through a screen, wherein many of us have already experienced the phantom pocket-vibration syndrome in which we have this constant search for a hit of dopamine (Someone liked my status!). The clichés about us, are just the same things repeated countless times— that we are entitled and hard to manage, we need to be praised, pampered, given perks and that we have unrealistic expectations, blah blah blah and the list goes on. The question is, if we really are all what was mentioned above— then why do some people see us as the new Greatest Generation? What TIME has said about us is almost accurate, it’s scary. Yes, we have all that information about narcissism and laziness and entitlement. However, an era’s greatness isn’t controlled by that information; it’s determined by how they react to the difficulties that come upon them. Whether the people think the Millenials are the new greatest generation of hopeful business visionaries or just a group of 80 million individuals going to fall down in a small dwarf star of tears when their desires are unmet, we won’t really care anymore. We might be a bit complicated and held back in a way, but we are a young and a gifted generation. We create a change in how work gets done, because we work more in teams and use more technology. We bring a new generational personality—done of optimism, structure, team orientation, and a confidence bordering on entitlement. As the young ones, we have the ability to do more to stand up for ourselves. Although we are an oppressed group—an unusual one, even— we are footloose. Meaning, we have the whole world to explore with nothing to ever tie us down.

Denneese Mae Mari Caberte

Monica Delos Reyes Mariano

Department of Accountancy

School of Education

Give her a beat and you’ll be amazed by how she conquers the dance floor. Deneese is a member of nine dance groups, some of which are the Ateneo Blue Vigors, Angels & Femmes, BnY Crew, and CrewGang. When she was still in kindergarten, she was asked by their principal to lead their morning exercise and basically, that was the time that she discovered that dancing was her forte. She wants to become a versatile dancer and to be able to join more competitions where she can enhance her talent even more.

Looks can really be deceiving. Monica is often thought of as the maldita type of girl but when you come to know her deeper, you will find the kindest person you’ll ever know. She majors in MAPEH, and as such, sings and dances as well. As a member of the Ateneo Liturgical Society, Monica is an alto. An avid fashionista, she looks gorgeous in anything she wears. Though it may not be very obvious for she is undeniably beautiful and very talented but she has never been involved in any romantic relationship. Her top priority right now is her studies which makes her even beautiful.

Vaneza Suarez

Department of Accountancy

BSAc senior, Vaneza, is both beauty and brains. She is an Ateneo Centennial Scholar and at the same time, a makeup artist. She feels fulfilled whenever she is able to transform a person and see how more beautiful that person can be through her skills as a makeup artist. She intends to establish her own business as a makeup artist after graduation. For her, it is her eyes that give her the charm which entices people. She always keeps in mind that in everything she does and in every decision she makes, she should be one step closer in reaching her dreams. The person she looks up the most is her father for in every choice she takes, it is her father that is in her mind.

Jacqueline Pioquinto

College of Nursing Currently in her third year, Jacqueline is musically inclined. She does not only sing but also is able to write prose or poetry. During her spare time, she tries to transcribe a song that has been ear-worming her into a piano piece or by recording a short cover. She loves listening to the songs of the band Bastille and as for her favorite genre to sing, it would most definitely be EDM songs. Not to mention that she is a member of the AdZU Nursing Chorale. Moreover, she is also into photography. She started this when she began to feel like she wanted to keep every moment in her life in photos. Being an optimistic person that she is, she believes that it is her smile that gives her charm. |23

m r a Ch

The

A LENTEN REFLECTION: The Gift or the Giver

CHART

BY FRANCO RIVAS CANANEA, AUDRIE KEITH SEPE AND BIANCA ZAMORA

BY FR. WILFREDO M. SAMSON, SJ

ASST. TO THE PRESIDENT FOR FORMATION ATENEO DE ZAMBOANGA UNIVERSITY

hich one is more important? The gift or the giver?

Imagine this: Pedro was working abroad for twenty years. In his desire to give a stable future for his family, he decided to forgo his annual vacation to save money. Finally Pedro went home after twenty years. He was excited to see his family. Bringing a big balikbayan box for pasalubong, he finally reached home. But much to his surprise, instead of welcoming him first, his wife and his children quickly rushed to the balikbayan box, opened the box and grabbed their pasalubongs. They totally forgot Pedro. No warm hugs from the children. No kiss from the wife. They were totally distracted by the balikbayan box, and oblivious of Pedro’s presence. If you’re Pedro, what would you feel? Which one is more important? The gift or the giver? We may quickly judge the wife and the children, but stop! Hold your judgment first. For we are not far from them. Like Pedro’s family, we are also guilty of being attracted to the gifts (treasure, time and talent) and not with God, the Giver of gifts. In the famous biblical story of The Prodigal Son (Luke 15: 11-32), when the younger son demanded for his inheritance from the father, it was like telling his father, “I DON’T NEED YOU. But I need your wealth.” The younger son’s insensitive demand was like a knife to the father’s heart. Surprisingly, the father did not show his disappointment or anger to his insensitive son. Without any question, the father quickly gave his son’s request. No questions asked. No scolding. No condemnation. And the son left with his wealth. And the rest is history: “He went to a far country, and there he squandered his property in loose living.” And when he had spent everything, a great famine came into that city, until the younger son found himself living with the pigs. Reality bites. Finally, he realized his mistakes and misgivings. And COMING TO HIS SENSES, the younger son humbly returned to the father with nothing but shame. Shaken and humbled, he said, “Treat me as your servant and not as a son.” But again, without any question or scolding, the father exclaimed, “Let us celebrate because this son of mine was dead, and has come to life again.” On the other hand, the elder son was not better than his younger brother. He may have stayed with his father faithfully without any act of disobedience, but his reaction to his father’s

mercy revealed what was in his heart, “For many years I have served you, and I never disobeyed your command; yet you never gave me a small goat, that I might make merry with my friends. But when this son of yours came, who has devoured your living with prostitutes, you killed for him the fatted calf!” (Luke 15: 2930)

e have all heard of the oft-repeated line, Substance over form. We have also heard of the line, Life is unfair. For the following individuals, whether you collectively call them La Purisima’s Loveliest or The BEACON’s Most Beautiful, substance and form take one shape.

The elder son was also expecting a reward for being good. And when such reward was not given to him, he showed his frustrations and anger to the father. With his action, he also revealed that the reward or gift was more important than the giver. Thus, the father reacted lovingly, “Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours.” (Luke 15:31). Both sons were thinking of the gift, and not the giver. Sinning against God is setting our eyes not on the Father but on His balikbayan boxes. We lose God when we search for the gift rather than the Giver. This is our modern idolatry. We worship the gift and not the Giver of gifts. But in spite of our ingratitude and blindness, God never stops showering us with his grace and mercy. He is faithful to his name. As Pope Francis would say, “The name of God is Mercy.” In this Lenten season, we beg for the grace of “COMING TO OUR SENSES.” Repent before we find ourselves dining with the pigs. We still have everything: Our family, our parents, and our wife/husband/children. We still have our wealth, youthfulness, health, time and strength. Most of all, we still have the LOVE OF THE FATHER in spite of our unfaithfulness. Let’s come to our senses now, see that everything is gift. Repent and return to the Father. Do not be blinded by our “balikbayan boxes” (our time, talents, and treasure). They are GIFTS OR GOODIES given to us, but they are not our everything. Know how to use these material blessings correctly. They are good servants but poor masters. They can give us happiness but not inner joy. They are self-satisfying but not heavenly fulfilling. Let’s come into our senses (BALIK) and return to the fold of the Father (BAHAY). Let’s lean on to the GIVER OF LIFE and not on WHAT LIFE CAN GIVE TO US. Be a BALIK-BAHAY this Lenten Season. God is waiting for our coming home. And His Mercy awaits us.

College of Science and Information Technology

From San Jose, California, USA, this BS Biology freshman is proud of his passion –dancing. His love for dancing started even when he was very young. He was always seen to be dancing and until he grew up, he continued pursuing it. He dances with any song that has a beat to express himself. The dancefloor has become a major part of his life. It had taught him to have confidence to present himself to the large crowd. He believes that his defining feature would most definitely be his smile for he is always seen smiling. Though seen as a tough guy with his strong physique and height, Ameer has a very soft spot in his heart for cats.

Kristoffer Ian Buñag

Department of Management

Ahmad Alibasa

To excel in a one field of interest is already a great thing but to excel in two is fulfilling. Toffer, is both an athlete and a dancer. He is a member of Ateneo Blue Vigors and Sexy Bordz. Dancing, to him, started out by an accident way back five years ago. On the other hand, his being sporty guy could be traced back to his elementary days. He usually spends three to four hours every night and during weekends to improve his athletic skills. Basketball has played a very huge part in his life. It is in this particular sport that he feels free, contented and happy. Basketball, for him, is his comfort zone. He believes in the words Ancora Imparo‘Still, I am learning.’

College of Nursing

He’s got the looks, the intelligence

and the attitude. He probably is the ideal man for most girls. Ahmad is a nursing student and is an academic achiever. An accomplished swimmer from Abu Dhabi, he thinks that one needs not to be intelligent to be an achiever but rather; one has to believe in his own capabilities and have a clear vision of what he wants to achieve. With that, he can do anything to succeed. He believes that one should never lose hope. Even though life is hard on you, you should never stop believing in God and in yourself because just like the old saying goes, “Everything happens for a reason.”

Mahter Mohammad Yasser Department of Accountancy

Jesus Dhale Aquino

Department of Accountancy JD is not just a typical good-looking guy who can make your knees go jello but is also a French-speaking social activist. This BSAt sophomore is a member of the Rotary Club. He was also included in an exchange program to Europe of the said organization. Not only that, he is also an active member of SACSI and has been visible in many of its activities.

“But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal. [Matthew 6:20]” |07

Ameer Juan

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Mahter, is not just an ordinary man with a pretty face but rather, a man with a heart to serve the Almighty. His appreciation for the beauty of the Islamic religion started during his younger years when he first learned the fundamentals of being a Muslim in a Madrasa. “I don’t think it is being religious. It is just being a Muslim.” Being a Muslim, to him, means that “you submit yourself fully to the commandments of your God.” He feels fulfilled whenever he prays to Allah and whenever he follows His commandments. When asked what his defining features were, he answered that it would most likely be his eyes and his fair skin.

THE CHOICE

2016 BY HASMINA ALFAD, ASEYA KHADIJA CALO AND CIARA OBILLO

n light of PiliPinas Debates 2016 held on February 21 in Cagayan de Oro City – the first we had since 1992 – The BEACON conducted a poll from March 1-4 as an update to the first survey that we conducted last November. The exercise involved 400 registered respondents. Non-registered voters were segregated from those otherwise. Moreover, those who were not residents of Zamboanga City were not counted in the survey for the slots of mayor and vice-mayor.

that they were not in favor of the said increase. The results could be connected to the fact that only 62.7 percent of the respondents feel that they do not get their tuition’s worth. One of the respondents even said “Kung may increase, sana beneficial sa students yung paglalaanan ng pera.” What’s saddening is that despite the yearly increases in tuition fees, students have no choice but to settle with the same old arm chairs that already have rough-surfaced armrests and weak foundations that could easily be swept by a mighty gust of wind, with the same old comfort rooms with malfunctioning flushes, and with the same old rooms that are not that conducive for learning. However, we could see that there are great improvements with regards to campus beautification. Yes, these efforts surely aided in making our cramped campus more pleasing to the eyes, but the student body would have appreciated it if the funds were allocated toward facility improvement. It would have been better if the money was spent for improving laboratories, libraries, or classrooms, in order to not just help in facilitating students’ learning, but to make the University more competitive as well. Moreover, some students also feel that they do not get the “quality education” that should have been tied up to their pricey tuition fees due to the lack of teachers. More and more skilled teachers move out to find greener pastures due to the very low compensation provided by the administration.

Other Sources of Income

For President

Absent in the November poll (it took the former Davao City mayor weeks to finally make up his mind), Rodrigo Duterte topped the count with a total of 170 votes. Besides his rather eloquence in street cursing on national television, Duterte is credited for making Davao City the fourth safest city in the world during his seven terms of office. “Peace and order, disiplina. ‘Yan kasi yung kailangan natin. Taga-Mindanao din siya,” said a respondent when quizzed on her choice for president. Coming in second was Senator Miriam DefensorSantiago, the candidate who previously won the first The Choice survey. Santiago was considered to be one of The 100 Most Powerful Women in the World in 1997 due to her notable works in public after having served in all three branches of the government. With over 126 votes, she vows to spend the last remaining years of her life in public governance after joking that her life was not taken yet.

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Rounding the Top 3 was neophyte senator, Grace PoeLlamanzares with a total of 58 votes. Popular for being the late Fernando Poe Jr.’s adopted daughter, PoeLlamanzares first entered Philippine politics during 2013 after serving as chairperson of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB) from 20102013. She just recently overcame a court case under the Supreme Court with regards to her candidacy.

For Vice-President

While awaiting the Vice-Presidential Debate on April 10, the top three vice-presidenti candidates chosen by the Ateneans are as follows: Senator Bongbong Marcos, Santiago’s running mate, won first with a one-point advantage of 105 votes. Marcos was also the preferred vice-president of the respondents in the November edition of The Choice. Aside from his father’s reputation and the constant rallying for Marcos’

Given that the University is home to at least 3,000 students, a huge amount of expenses are expected every school year. Adding up to this situation is the drastic decrease of potential enrollees next school year because of Senior High. It truly is inevitable for the University to have a tuition fee increase, yet perhaps it’s about time that AdZU should exert effort in looking for other sources of income to avoid total dependency on the students’ tuition fees. Since Ateneo is located in downtown Zamboanga, it has a lot of opportunities for it to make use of its resources to generate income. Take Universidad de Zamboanga for example, it accumulates extra profit by renting some of its facilities to outsiders. This does not just help in profit-making, but it is also a form of advertisement for the school as well.

Lack of Transparency

TOFI ANALYSIS Are you satisfied with the current tuition fee rate?

Yes

29.8%

NO (Too High)

60.9%

NO (Too LOW)

9.3%

Do you think there is a need for a 4 percent tuition fee increase?

Yes

14%

86%

Do you think you get your tuition's worth?

Yes

37.3%

62.7%

Moreover, as ironic as it may seem, even though a lot of students are pretty much not in favor of a tuition fee increase, only a few students attended the February 24 tuition fee increase consultation organized by the University administration. This may either be due to lack of information dissemination regarding the event or the apathy toward the continuous tuition hikes. Whatever the reason may be, communication lines between the students and administration should be more open in order to have a real “consultation” in place. Yearly financial statements should also be presented to the students and parents in order for them to know whether what they’re paying for is spent wisely.

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resistance, Bongbong’s 25 years in public service marks him as a threat to competition. “Track record and experience,” cited one college student as to why Marcos was his chosen vice-president. Losing the first place by a vote was Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, Duterte’s running mate. He authored a number of bills that were consequently passed into law during his previous terms. Some of his known laws are the Freedom of Information Act and Iskolar ng Bayan Act. Heart Evangelista’s husband, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero was at third place with 84 votes.

For Senator Since there are 12 Senate seats up for grabs, The BEACON Poll asked Ateneans to identify their picks. Leila de Lima, the former Secretary of Justice, was also the chair of the Commission on Human Rights during the Arroyo administration. She got the top spot with 298 votes. Running close to de Lima, was Anna Theresia “Risa” Hontiveros with 280 votes. Despite losing in the past two elections, Hontiveros attempts to run for the Senate for the third time. Former Philippine National Police chief, Panfilo “Ping” Lacson scored a total of 273 votes to place third. Behind Lacson by a point was Kiko Pangilinan –former senator, and was recently appointed by President Aquino as Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization. Meanwhile, EVAT author Ralph Recto was tied with Pangilinan for 272 votes.

Sergio de la Rama Osmeña III acquired a total of 260 votes. His fellow Senate veteran Franklin Drilon shared the same spot with another former senator, Juan Miguel Zubiri with 255 votes.

Up, up and away:

Tuition Fee Increase, Once More BY CHRISTIANNE DAWN SICAT AND TRISHA ORTEGA

Former Tourism secretary and Philippine Red Cross chair Richard Gordon joined the Top 12 with 236 votes. Teofisto de Lara Guingona III, author of laws such as the Anti-torture Act of 2009, Civil Aviation Authority Act of 2008, and the Mindanao Development Authority Act of 2010 garnered a total of 214 votes. Valenzuela City representative Sherwin Gatchalian managed to get 130 votes from the respondents. Rounding up the dozen was Vicente “Tito” Sotto III with 127 votes.

The Local Scene Current mayor Maria Isabel Climaco-Salazar was the runaway choice with 263 votes, with Mario Yanga at a far second of 92 votes. “Mabait kasi si Beng. Very approachable kaya siya ang iboboto ko,” was the response of one of those who chose her. Incidentally, ClimacoSalazar’s running mate was also the top choice for vicemayor. Cesar Iturralde won with 229 votes against lawyer Melchor Sadain’s 99 votes. Months before the actual vote, preferences are finally shaping up. While surveys may reflect the general mood of the electorate, many things can still happen on our way to the voting precincts come the 9th of May. At this age, the wisdom of this democratic exercise lies in how we appraise the merits and demerits of the candidates beyond personality and political identity. After all, the choice we make this coming elections will determine the quality of governance we will enjoy –or endure –for three to six years.

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icture this: The first period bell of afternoon classes just rang, and you run up the stairs to the fourth floor (because of course, all your classes are on the top-most floors, what a privilege!). You reach the top, get your bearings straight, and head on over to your room. You wipe the sweat trickling down the side of your neck and imagine the cold air blowing from the AC just waiting for you behind those closed Bellarmine-Campion doors. You finally reach them, pull on the knob and wait for that blast of freshness to just hit you straight on the face. Alas, you are pounded right then and there with the hot, sticky humid air of bodies tightly packed together. You quickly look over at the two seemingly powerful air-conditioning units which look like they could power an entire ballroom, just stuck to the wall. You learn then that, apparently, the units are broken; apparently, they're still being fixed, and apparently, you're not getting the service, and the cold air-conditioning air, that you're paying for. There's more: what you're paying for? Well, that's not just it. You'll be paying 4 percent more. You'll be paying more, for those broken pieces of equipment, and for that cold, fresh, little taste of air-condition heaven that feel miles away. This year, tuition fees will increase at a rate of 4 percent, which may not come as a shock to some, nor is it welcomed with open arms.

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In an effort to hear what the paying student body has to say, The BEACON surveyed 300 respondents from the different academic organizations, laid down the cards and put together students' take on yet another year of the infamous tuition fees increases. From a survey of 300 respondents, approximately 60 percent said that the current tuition fee rate was much too high for their liking. Still, at most 30 percent were satisfied with the current rate. However, a few have even said that the current fee rate was a little too low and was not satisfying. It is clear that for many, the current tuition fees are higher than what is favorable. A next year's increase could certainly garner quite a few more dislikes from the student body. As unsurprising as it is to know that a lot agree to the tuition fees being too high, it is equally surprising to note that quite a number would think that the tuition fees are too low, and that there might be room for an increase. Needless to say, a 4 percent increase is still expected, and however much people would disagree, it has to be put there and implemented. When asked whether the respondents agree to a 4 percent tuition fee increase, a huge difference between the answers came out. Fourteen percent (14%) of respondents said that yes, they do agree to a tuition fee increase, while a very striking 86 percent said

Gianni Jouisse Berdin (AAO), Table Tennis

Gianni never thought that table tennis would be her sport. She was influenced by her boyfriend, Jestoni Charlo Pueblo who also plays the same sport and who also served as her trainer. Gianni did not expect at all that she would reach the finals and defeat veterans along the way. She maybe a beginner but she showed strong will and determination.

Choosing the Next President via Facebook BY DIEGO ESPERAT, CANDELINE GALVAN AND PRISTINE JANIELLE PADUA

ost of us, at this point in time of the campaign period and with weeks to go before the elections, may already have candidates in mind whom we want to vote. The majority of us, due to the nonexistence of voter education in this institution, may have resorted to doing our own research on our candidates, or by jumping on the bandwagon alongside our peers, or even not giving a damn whom to vote for and instead just deciding to shade the circle we feel like shading come election day. If you’re still on the fence on whom to vote for or how you can decide for yourself, social media is the answer! Well, usually. Here is a compilation of the common means and ways some first time voters admit employing:

Fall for click-bait articles

When you're on a desktop computer or even browsing Facebook on your mobile phone or tablet, do you ever scroll through your newsfeed and open almost every linked post you come across? And do you ever amass a myriad number of tabs just because of these click-bait articles? We have been there, and we have than or, not to quote Alma Moreno, done that. A few examples of these sites are those by Rappler, the news website that so far, has taken an active role in providing voter education to the millenials. Or: “Is it just me or is the ABS-CBN news website more than a little biased in their coverage of the election?”

Get won over by wit and charisma

The mayor of Davao City, Rodrigo Duterte is infamous for being blunt and merciless to his enemies proven in one of the many things he said regarding lawbreakers, “The criminals have no place in this city except jails, detention centers, and God forbid, funeral parlors.” Having run for the presidency before, Miriam Defensor-Santiago is a vigorous woman especially when attacking her opponents with such audacity. Despite having been questioned for her health, the said woman never wavered but instead fought back with her brilliant mind, “Those crooks exhibit the epidermis of pachyderms. But I am prepared to fight them. I have cultivated intestinal fortitude.” “Grabe talaga confidence ni Duterte! 6 months to wipe out corruption? Na wow!” “If he juggles his time with women, work and family effortlessly then he must be a pro in having to face the economy!” |10

Be swayed by the posts of friends (sometimes)

Most of the time, the opinions of others affect your decision in choosing the presidency. A single thought from your best friend can either make you question your own belief or argue on who’s better. There are even those individuals who view themselves to be a smart ass in terms of politics and another who literally bases their own judgement depending on who is more ‘mainstream.’ But does being easily swayed by social media show our level of confidence or ignorance? “Every time I hear Senator Poe speak, it feels as though she might as well be telling me a children’s story and I wouldn’t care.” “Para sa akin, kung ang presidente natin ay walang masyadong karanasan then walang muwang ang kanyang kaisipan. Mabuti ba to? Makakatulong ba rin ba to sa ating bansa ngayon na puno ng katiwalian?” “I remember this one post by a friend of mine that really changed my opinion about one of the presidential candidates. They posted about all the shady operations that this particular individual had going on in their hometown and their opinions about certain topics. This was the moment where I really started to see the potentially scary consequences of a term with this person.”

Shotgun!

This is a method employed by most entrance exam takers when they have no idea what circle to shade for their answer. Come the 2016 polls, it is highly likely that more than a few of us first time voters will do this. Or, you can always leave other circles blank and just vote for the candidates you truly want to vote for. But where’s the fun in that? For voters who are either test takers or newbies especially in the month of May, often times than not they choose their candidates randomly in hopes of getting it over with as soon as possible. They are the ones who are either too busy or too nonchalant to care but elect for the sake of having to do so. Either way, the option of leaving a blank circle is truly an abomination and a great show of lack of awareness so they may cast their votes on who they heard or seen the most instead of looking behind the background of the running candidates. “I hate to say it but I don’t really take the time to get to know all of the senatorial candidates. When I took a survey about whom I’m going to vote for, the only ones I was sure of were the president and the mayor. I kind of just shotguned the senators (except for one but I’m not going to get into that).”

Brandon Recinto (JHS), Taekwondo

Mel John Cerezo (CSITAO), Softball

Being a varsity player, Mel John had the discipline to practice hard to be able to further foster and nurture his skills in the sport. He encourages fellow athletes to not just compete for the awards, but to compete because of their love for the game. He also added, “To be able to conquer my fear, I would think I am better than the opposing team to be able to gain confidence.”

Nicole Lim (NAO), Judo

Brandon outstood all other players in taekwondo. By showing off his sharp but accurate kicks and fast reacting mind, he has proven that despite his age, he already has what it takes to be a champion. His father, who is also a taekwondo player, served as his inspiration and mentor. He has been competing in regional tournaments before which obviously helped him a lot in his win. Skills and experience go hand in hand but these two are nothing without passion.

Nicole may be a novice in judo, but she shows otherwise. She is more likely to be a pro in the mat. She finds interest in judo because it is different from the other sports she knows. Though the AtFest judo tournament was her first ever, she began her training since she was in third year high school. This first year Nursing student believes that her winning formula was her counter and defense.

Steven Chua (MAO), Judo

Steven traces his passion for judo from his father who is also a judoka. During his high school days, he was part of the school’s varsity in basketball. However, he started developing his interest in judo during his first year in college. He is the president of the Judo Club and he leads his members through example. He believes that as an athlete, one has to keep on practicing and keep in mind that what one practices is what one plays. |19

K12:

Of Anxieties and Uncertainties

BY SENIOR WRITER JOHN XYRIOUS DELA CRUZ AND BIANCA ROMA DE LEON

nother academic year has come to an end.

And as we all know, the academic year is a cycle. And as this year’s cycle ends, another cycle will surely commence come June of 2016.

Fast forward to June 2016.

And everything starts all over again, first-day-of-school feels, summer vacation hangovers, last minute shopping for brand new school uniforms, and a lot of cramming for surprising and alarming first day quizzes. But wait, we seem to forget something. Ah yes, a whole new pack of freshman students! A bunch of innocent, youthful, and adorable first year college students that will begin their venture into college. Not to mention the bright and colorful OrSem welcome-party blast dedicated for them!

Flashback to March 2016.

Newsflash: There will be no incoming freshmen college students.

The Philippines immediately plunged into the K-12 program in the hopes of getting at par with the other countries in the global arena. Such proclamation has immensely affected all the other universities in the country, and on the onset of the first wave of Senior High school, let’s try to visualize the prospective repercussions of such action. The implementation of the K-12 program left the Philippines positioned in such a way that minor mistakes could tip the balance toward failure. In the case of Ateneo de Zamboanga University, the K12 Program will officially commence this school year. And in line with this program, instead of welcoming freshmen students, the Ateneo will accommodate enrollees for its Senior High School Program composed of Grades 11 and 12 levels. Although optimism has been high regarding the implementation of the K12 Program, we cannot help but be bothered by the lingering uncertainties that come when the program kick starts this June.

College Curriculum The K12 Program will surely bring sweeping changes in the academic curriculum of each course in the Ateneo. Taking a look at the senior high curriculum, it is observable that numerous subjects normally tackled during college can now be taken at a much earlier time frame. Furthermore, the curriculum they’ll take up is actually their choice with the sole purpose of implementing skills necessary for the future in fields like entrepreneurship, employment, technical vocation, and college. Several minor and basic subjects, such as English Grammar, Rizal History and Filipino, usually taken during the first few years in college will not be covered in Senior High. Aside from that, some subjects might not even make the cut in the curriculum, such as the FFP-NSTP, since there is no point having an FFP class with no freshmen students. And the number of years required to finish a certain course and obtain a college degree might be shortened. The K12 Program carries with it a lot of pressure for each schools and colleges in the Ateneo to revise and change their present curriculum in order to appear competitive and attractive to the graduates of Senior High. The implication of having the K12 is that going to college will now be seen as an option rather than a necessity. The curriculum integrated into the K12 will provide students with basic, technical and even vocational skills and talents for them to be able to land a job or start a career without having the need to go to college. College curriculum will now be challenged to provide an avenue for further growth and development of advanced learning, skills and techniques.

Number of Enrollees The students are the lifeblood of Ateneo. They are the primary source of funds through their tuition, miscellaneous and other school fees. Having no freshmen enrolees will surely affect the operation of the university in terms of the availability of financial resources. Studies have already been made in order to project the number of enrolees for Senior High and so far, these numbers are not enough to offset the deficit that Ateneo will incur by losing its freshmen enrollees.

Behn Ortouste (CSITAO), Football

Marf Dalogdog (AAO), Chess

“Playing football with your feet is one thing, playing football with your heart is another,” says Behn, this year’s football MVP. Ortouste started his football journey when he was still in grade school through the coaching of William Filoteo. He is very versatile and plays different football positions including forward, defender, and goalkeeper. For those who are inspiring to be better athletes, he advises to “believe in yourself, and believe in your team mates for teamwork is the key.”

As of the moment, numerous improvements in the school facilities are being made to cater to the Senior High enrolees. The library, for instance, is being equipped with a section exclusive for the Senior High students. Books are being purchased on their behalf. Universities nationwide are scouring for Senior High teachers. A lot of investments are being executed without a sure benefit.

While playing, Marf balanced his time in order to think clearly and to make sure that the move that he will make is the right choice. He already defeated several other chess players and won such game. This chess player was motivated by his friends who strengthened him so that he could win the AtFest game for his AO.

Michael Andre Sescon (AAO), Frisbee

Michael Andre is not your average student-athlete. He has been playing frisbee for almost 5 years now. This 20-year-old is also good in basketball, volleyball, chess, track and field, and table tennis. He is also musically inclined. The middle child among two other boys, Mark and Matt, the Sescon siblings share the same animo for sports.

This is a cause for concern because the uncertainty of the number of enrollees for Senior High might hamper the provision of basic educational services not only for the college level, but in all educational levels in the Ateneo. A low turnout for Senior High enrollees will mean less income for the school, thus resulting in a tight budget and restrictive spending. Right now we are starting to feel the measures being taken up by the Ateneo to address such uncertainties. The recent spike in tuition and other school fees is just one of those measures in order to minimize the loss that will be incurred come next school year.

Faculty and Staff Since several subjects will no longer be present in the college curriculum, so will be some of our college professors. College professors who have obtained post-graduate degrees are most likely to be retained by the Ateneo to teach both in college and Senior High. Expect that there will be a lot of transferring, reshuffling and repositioning of faculty members and staff. But there is also the uncertainty of retrenching and letting go of some members of the faculty, specifically those who are working part-time. We are now left with issues like the school budget allocation and the faculty and staff, leading to possible glitches in the general operation of AdZU. There is a pressing concern about whether or not there’ll be displacements in the college faculty. With no more incoming freshmen, some professors will inevitably lose their jobs because their services specialized for first years are no longer required. The uncertainty of whether the Ateneo will still have a quality and competitive set of faculty and staff both in the Senior High and college levels is disturbing in such a way that having to let go brilliant and stupendous teachers will be a big loss to the university, most especially to the students. That is the case that we need to look into, because believe it or not, the Ateneo lacks professors who exhibit and employ effective and efficient educational methods in teaching students. And the fact that standards have been raised regarding college education wherein a professor must have earned at least a master’s degree in order to teach in college, is only making the search for quality teachers arduous and challenging on the part of Ateneo, paired with a compensation package that pales in comparison with other educational institutions. The uncertainties posed by the K12 implementation are newfound challenges and changes that the entire Ateneo Community will be facing come June 2016. We just hope that the Ateneo is prepared and wellequipped to face these dilemmas. Looking at the current educational system of the Philippines, the implementation of the K12 Program delineates an ambiguous future of whether or not benefits would be reaped out of it. Given that education, as of the present, is highly commercialized, lacks government support and funding, and is highlighting an increasing number of drop-outs, we now put into question whether education today is more of a privilege rather than a right and an opportunity. |11

Fatima Tawasil (JHS), Futsal

Time management is surely hard, but Fatima does it so well. She is a member of the AdZU women’s football team and plays the roles of striker and midfielder for the team. Inspired and motivated by her father, coach, and classmates, she played football and eventually started playing futsal. This high school student is not only good at playing football and futsal, she also knows how to play volleyball, basketball, lawn tennis and others.

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THE BEACON

Doreena Malon (AAO), Track and Field

“It’s not about winning, it’s about enjoying” says Doreena for this was her first time to join track and field in her entire life and she said that the only way to give the very best was to enjoy whatever it took. She honestly stated that she was not an athlete and it was just by chance that she became a runner to participate for the AAO. She also added that her secret for winning were proper training, her coach who always supported her, and the whole AAO who motivated her.

ICONS

David Dawang (NAO), Track and Field

BY PUTLI MONAIRA AMILBANGSA, DARWIN LACBAO AND AISHA PUY IBRAHIM ILLUSTRATIONS BY JONIE ALABAN & IONEE GARCIA

David started executing his ability in running only in this year’s AtFest when he discovered that he could run as fast as the other runners during their first test run. It was by that time when his other co-players and team captain pushed him to play because of his competent high vertical jumps. Also, he added that in this sport, endurance, focus and trust in God strengthen him for he could do anything for the first time without any failure.

etting Trends? Popularity? Social impact? How does one become an icon? How does one set out to be one an influential person in AdZU? This school year has been eventful and colorful because of this select set of individuals –people who set tongues wagging and eyebrows arching at their passion for public mileage. Here are this community’s five most influential Ateneans who have fueled discourse among the lot for better or for worse.

The Anonymous: The Administrator of the Ateneo de Zamboanga Secret Files Facebook Page Admit it or not, our

favorite past time in Facebook is to read the blatant entries of those who share their adventurous secrets and experiences in the Ateneo de Zamboanga Secret Files. With all the likes, shares, and comments about its stories, it is no question that the ever secretive Admin is one of the most influential Ateneans in the community. From confessions on love and lust, complaints on faculty and facility to mundane proclamations of endearments to this and that, this Facebook page never ceases to provoke a variety of feelings from netizens. Whether it is the thrill of going incognito or the pleasure derived from seeing your post get shared and commented, Facebook users continue to flock to this platform. The page saw massive discussion at the height of the AtFest rivalry and it was also responsible in part to the notoriety of the second placer in this list. The prominence of AdZU’s Secret Files page in Facebook is no accident. It is part of an online trend among school communities where students and alumni post unidentified notes on the wall of the page for the sheer sake of expression. This is most popular among the collegiate crowd However, this kind of power implies the grave responsibility to keep the confidentiality of the identities of those who submit entries, and keep their stories from sullying the reputation of the institution in general. More than 20,000 likers and followers, all under the influence of an administrator who keeps the audience entertained. Either the Admin plays neutral or sadist whenever obscene remarks and vitriols erupt in the |12

page, we could only second guess. Besides, nobody seems to care. We marvel at the discreet power of this individual. The ADZU Admin continues to be a mystery and in this age of social media, anonymity is celebrity.

The Notorious: Franco Rivas Cananea and Dave Cervas

The article “The Seven Deadly Maralita Sins” Dave Cervas wrote in The BEACON’s September-October issue kicked the hornets’ nest. It unfortunately used a word that echoed a Twitter convo gone awry between two faculty members of the University and the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. The piece spiraled into accusations of extreme elitism on the expense of the poor –from students to a Jesuit priest—everyone seemed to want Cervas’ head on a spike. The outcry even forced The BEACON to issue a public statement on the matter. For his defense, the contention and confusion with the use of the word maralita was a sad episode of linguistic appropriation in the same mold as how Chavacano speakers get scandalized with the term coño speak. Regretful yet unapologetic, Cervas continues to write. Franco Rivas Cananea is the anointed nemesis of El Consejo Atenista. Solid in his embrace of sarcasm in his writing, his column Rivas Alone has in several occasions earned the ire of the members of the student council. Consistently negative, Cananea in his latest piece, Burn ECA Burn, polarized the student body between two camps: those who side with ECA citing the excessively piercing language of his articles and those who agree that he speaks the truth, no matter how painful. One even cited it as culpable for the poor turnout of the recent ECA polls. Nevertheless, his articles reflect a snobbery bordering on aristocracy, a tartness bordering on mockery and a temerity bordering on recklessness yet he remains unhindered.

Matthew Tan (AAO), Badminton

Hitting the shuttlecock for him was just a piece of cake. Matthew was confident given the days of practice he spent before the game. With pure will and dedication and with the help of his fellow teammates and supporters, nothing stopped him from taking home the gold.

Mariphil Tan (MAO), Badminton

Mariphil dedicated her win to her academic organization. She pointed that determination and teamwork was the key to her triumph. Many of her opponents were tough but on the strenght of her perseverance, she was became the champion of the badminton female event.

Nylecoj Badiang (JHS), Volleyball

Being the High School Falcons’ team captain, Lady serves as the team’s energy booster. With good leadership and good attack percentage, she secured their advantage against Grade School to make sure that her team would reign in the championship. She encouraged everyone in the team to unleash their best weapons in gaining every point, be it offense or defense. Her high-spirited personality lead the team very well in every match. |17

These two writers with the degree of audacity or shock value in their articles overshadowed their peers in the campus publication and tested the limits of campus journalism in a university plagued with apathy.

She is often described as amiable, being able to charm people with her disposition and athleticism, a quality that could potentially earn votes and influence the electorate to forgive USAD’s sins and move forward. Add to this mix is her being down-to-earth and approachable, traits that could revitalize student participation in ECA affairs. However, as the party spokesperson, Chua is staunchly loyal and at times, overly defensive provoking mixed reactions that range from support to distaste. Leading El Consejo Atenista is an arduous responsibility, and though Chua being magnanimous expressed willingness to take on the challenge, the profile of her influence remains contentious.

The Ambitious: IgnITE

The Ignatian Initiative for Transformative Empowerment (IgnITE) began as a student party out to counter the flaming rhetoric of the Union of Students for the Advancement of Democracy. It suffered successive defeats in the El Consejo Atenista elections but this year, IgnITE turned tables –it was the only party which fielded candidates in this year’s vote. Its various activities promote a resurgence of leadership among the students, something that has been in want since who-knowswhen.

The Industrious: Ecowatch This year’s Ateneo Fiesta threw a curve ball with the inclusion of a demerit system for academic organizations and participating units who in their thirst for glory seem to be oblivious to the University’s protocol on trash disposal. Tasked to oversee this regulation was Ecowatch and lo were its members keen and industrious to cite violations and penalize violators. Soon the organization’s tally sheet became a freedom wall for invectives accusing it of partiality but as the fiesta euphoria died down, the truth became apparent to everyone in the AdZU community –the 2015 AtFest was the cleanest in recent memory.

The stories of the #HumansOfIgnatianLeadership are ones to set a fire of inspiration to the hearts of those who hesitate to step up on taking responsibility within the campus and beyond. Their Youth Engage for Sustainable Peace 2016 engaged young Atenean leaders to value peace and development being young Mindanaoans through transformative peace ideologies and effective conflict management, allowing them to discover the true meaning of peace. IgnITE president Kenneth AlJohn Abas was even awarded as one of the Five Outstanding Zamboangueno Young Leaders and received the Senator Roseller T. Lim award during the 10th Dia de Roseller Lim commemorative celebration. Still setting the world on fire, IgnITE is more than eager to show that even the smallest people make the biggest difference wherever they may be. What IgniTE offers is an alternative, a conservative counter to the radicalism of USAD, a platform that is appealing to the University Administration and is not intimidating to the moderate Atenean. As to whether these efforts form part of an ambitious plan to monopolize student politics or are borne out of a genuine call to serve, only time and circumstance will tell.

The Contentious: Sitti Fatima Paula Chua As the secretary of the Department for Student Involvement in the El Consejo Atenista, Chua oversaw the achievements in the razor-thin portfolio of this school year’s ECA. Her dedication to redeem USAD made her the heir-apparent to Emmanuelle Bantay and even those who staunchly oppose the said party recognize the quality of her

The Heroes of

leadership as the lone bright spot in a doomed government. Alas, when she was ready to salvage ECA from collective mistrust, the Ateneo Electoral Commission (AELECOM) –her own partymates and officemates –barred her from seeking the highest post in the student council on account of scholastic standing. Unless a ruling from the perennially lethargic Judicial Council quashes the AELECOM’s Omnibus Elections Code, a second Chua presidency (her brother Tyrone is a former president) will remain a big what-if.

ATFEST BY JOHN DEXTER CANDA, JAMILA BECCA DAUD, IVON MACAPLA, GILLIAN MANALO, RIZANNA NARAG AND CHRISTINE OBOY

hree months later, the memories of the 2015 edition of the AtFest have faded save for the crowning of the overall championship. Needless to say, the AtFest –whether the overheard revamp will push through or not—has not looked kindly on our athletes, reducing their victories as footnotes to overhyped events such as Pop Dance or Festival Dance. This is a far cry from how AtFest was originally envisioned as an intramural spectacle of athleticism and sportsmanship. In this Yearend Special, The BEACON salutes, albeit belatedly, the sports heroes of the 2015 AtFest. Here is the shortlist of the best of the best:

Peter de Ocampo (LAAO), Basketball

Playing for almost ten years now, Peter is inspired to continue his career in basketball by his parents. He believes that with much focus, one can attain one’s goal. He is often described by his teammates as a good leader and a good 3-point shooter. His presence accordingly is a good impact in the team.

This environmental influence is one that we should promote.

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A Lady Knight back in her high school days, now a Lady Eagle and playing for College of Nursing, is Jessa Chiong. Despite being a newbie, she did not hesitate to contribute double digits to the team’s overall score. Basketball has been her passion ever since. “Hindi ko inaasahan ako ang magiging MVP kasi lahat naman kame pantay-pantay ang binibigay sa court,” she said.

Known for being the stewards of nature, the Ateneo de Zamboanga University Ecowatch has been busy with activities in support of their cause. Its recent Green School Campaign: A Love Affair with Nature was hailed in prompting the community to give back to nature. In collaboration with the Environment Program of the Social Awareness and Community Service Involvement Office, they have conducted an orientation on the project School-Based Nursery Propagation for Biodiversity Rehabilitation in Social Awareness and Community Service Involvement (SACSI) -Ecowatch Organization Adopted Communities. This resulted in the successful nurturing and propagation of bamboo cuttings, ornamental plants and endemic seedlings for their adopted community partners. They also conducted coastal clean-up and tree and mangrove-planting in identified strategic areas.

Jessa Chiong (NAO), Basketball

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Donel Laruya (AAO), Volleyball

His ever-popular hard-hitting spikes contributed greatly in the team’s score. BSAc student Donnel Laruya, is a member of Ateneo Men’s Volleyball Varsity who bagged the MVP title in the AtFest Volleyball Tournament for the men’s category. He admitted that he was quite pressured during the finals by the fact that AAO was the defending champion. Nevertheless, he gave his best as a player and more importanly, as a leader.

WINNER

WINNER Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza aka AlDub

The Bandila anchor and ANC Headstart host topped the list of People You Don’t Want to be Your Interviewer When You’re Running for Office.

Everyone caught on the fever and noontime has never been this cute since Sir Chief and Maya.

El Consejo Atenista

Alma Moreno and Manny Pacquiao

Karen Davila

Hate us or love us, you can’t stop us from doing nothing.

Tiwala lang. Tiwala lang talaga.

Angelica Yap aka Pastillas Girl

The BEACON

WINNER WINNER

Nice try, though.

Losers

KCC Mall de Zamboanga

Loser

We’re holding on to your promise of Burger King and JCo Donuts.

WINNER

Admit it, we’re only in for the drop at 1:27 and 3:05 in its 3:48 length.

The Face Mask

It began with the paranoia over MERSCov then EXO’s Chanyeol made it an airport fashion statement. Some in Zamboanga believe it could stop Zika.

Loser WINNER

Loser

WINNER

Loser

Miss Philippines Pia Wurtzbach

Miss Colombia Ariadna Gutierrez

“Confidently beautiful, with a heart.”

¿Por qué yo? ¡Por qué!

JaDine is for REAL

OTWOListas broke the internet every time James Reid and Nadine Lustre had an onscreen smoochfest. It was mayhem when the two admitted they we’re an item.

KathNiel is meh

The Pangako Sa’Yo reboot was a bore people had to endure while waiting for On the Wings of Love.

Loser

Win Some, Lose Some The School Year in Sum BY JAMILA BECCA DAUD AND CLARK BRYANT PUNZALAN

Loser

Roses by The Chainsmokers feat. ROZES

When Anne Curtis left, so did the people.

Whether it’s from Segway or Hendo or from CDR-King, the hoverboard proved to be the best accessory to arouse envy.

Love Yourself by Justin Bieber

Following the footsteps of John Legend’s All of Me and Ed Sheeran’s Thinking Out Loud, this Bieber track was 2015’s official LSS.

CityMall Tetuan

The Hoverboard

We’ve written everything. We’ve called ECA everything. Then nothing? Nasaan ang hustisya?

Loser WINNER

Depends on Who You Ask

AAO Tigers

AtFest Champion. Period.

Loser