THE
VOL. 72 ISSUE NO. 2 • ATFEST SPECIAL
AtFest 2018:
A Lookback
CONTENTS Table of Contents
ATFEST SPECIAL
03
Editorial
04
The United Tribal Pattern Design Yves Joey Flores
05
Shariful Mansul
06
Ayesha Tulete
08
The Eagles are Back ArtFest: Unity in Artistry Jamming to Song-filled Evenings
Karl Onayan & Kelly Cassandra Teja
10
Sharmaine Canama
12
AtFest Night Life Sayaw Ateneo Sophia del Castillo & Renz Suarez
14 Ateneo Fiesta 2018 Tallyboard 16
18
21
AtFest 2018 Champ and Almost Champs Think Not Only of Gold Sharmaine Canama & Ayesha Tulete
ABOUT THE COVER
Behind the Music with Ben & Ben Tasha Eugenio & Christine Therese Oboy
A Cultural Dance Hotpot for a Grand AtFest 2018 Conclusion
23
Kim Loyd Dela Cruz
24
#AtFest Jowa Yves Joey Flores
AtFest Volunteer Perks Christine Therese Oboy
Putli Monaira Amilbangsa II
22
“Good Game, Well Played”: Welcoming E-sports
26
A Constant Retelling: Exploring the Bangsamoro Narratives: A Review Shariful Mansul
The Ateneo Fiesta is an annual celebration of unity and solidarity among the Ateneo community through the paving of ways for interactions between the different units in numerous events held in and out of the campus. With this recent AtFest theme being Junto Todo Tribo Ateneo, the community rejoices amidst the diversity of their respective tribes, and highlights the very beauty that makes each of them different. The cover photo is a digital painting created by Ben Padua. The art showcases a night view of the crowd along the Camino Loyola Road. This is a very iconic feature of the fiesta that is a part of everyone’s Ateneo Fiesta experience. Illustrator: Ben Padua, G-12, AdZU SHS TVL 2D Animation
EDITORIAL
I
Junto todo, halahan pelo
t may be ironic it seems how each year the celebration of the Ateneo Fiesta encourages unity among the whole university through this grand festivity and yet the exaggeration of the Magis value in each of the events proves to be the bane of the would be oneness of the Ateneo community. In fact, this year’s theme of Junto Todo, Tribo Ateneo is a beautiful representation of how united we all are in celebrating this annual event, but with audible whispers of lack of sportsmanship each year, are we really junto todo? Sports and Non-sports activities alike get equal competitive attention from all participating academic organizations, so much that points for all them stir everyone in passive aggressive hate for each other. It is evident how this kind of behavior shows in social media where members of different academic organizations pit against each other for faults during AtFest events. It’s also common to hear certain issues of spying and sabotage whenever there are practices for certain events. One would also note the jeers and loud throwing of drum beats to each other during yell competitions. It is amazing to see how every academic organization gives their best in showing excellence in every event there may be, but it’s also sad that this comes with aggressive culture of competitiveness. Let us all realize the real reason why we celebrate this fiesta, and that this is a time for us all to gather and appreciate the strengths of each other and how beautiful we are as one community.
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GRAPHICS COURTESY OF ALEN TROY ESTRADA
PHOTO COURTESY OF RANDY PANAGUITON
Eight entries, one stood out.
THE UNITED
TRIBAL PATTERN
Design By Yves Joey Flores
My shirt design serves as a reminder that despite our differences in physical appearance, no matter where we come from or what tribe we belong to, we are still together as one Ateneo community. -Alen Troy Estrada, 2018
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Eight designs, one best captivated the essence of this year’s Ateneo Fiesta theme “Junto Todo Tribo Ateneo.” Entry #4, “United Tribal Pattern Design”. “My shirt design serves as a reminder that despite our differences in physical appearance, no matter where we come from or what tribe we belong to, we are still together as one Ateneo community,” said Alen Troy Raveche Estrada, the layout artist whose entry was declared as the official shirt design for AtFest 2018. Currently a 4th year taking BS CoE, the 21 year-old talent was the genius behind this year’s AtFest shirt. Estrada used Adobe Illustrator to skillfully draw a traditional eagle figure which served as the central element of the shirt. Symbolizing the Ateneo spirit, the eagle was inscribed with various tribal patterns on its feathers representing the different tribes, cultures, and ethnic groups of the Filipino people. Each pattern was intricately detailed and beautifully arranged,
as if in harmony among themselves. Furthermore, what made the shirt even more special was three of the feathers of the eagle light in the dark, exuding a bright neon glow. This was especially evident during the night when the lights were dim. In fact, the different academic organizations took advantage of this as an effect to enhance and amplify their performances, such as during the Pop Dance Competition. “My inspiration behind the shirt design was the people who would wear it. I didn’t even know if they would appreciate my design. Still, I did it,” answered Estrada when he was asked what inspired him to create such a shirt design. The #AtFest2018 shirt was a shirt for the people. It was a shirt that brought the Ateneo community together. It was a shirt that allowed us to share our similarities while celebrating our differences. It was a shirt in which we found unity in diversity. It was only a shirt, but it represented our dream to unite as one tribe, Tribo Ateneo.
The Eagles are Back !
Written by Shariful Mansul Photo Courtesy of Ateneo Fiesta Documentation Team
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his year’s November 30 welcomed a familiar crowd. White hair-covered heads gushed in through Gate 2, later outnumbering their successors. Just imagining all those long-separated friends getting reunited in a place familiar, provoked not just the reminiscing of the memories of childhood but also recounting of stories of how far they have gone in the light of the innocent past. The smile on their faces revealed it all. The day started lightly with Radyo Atenista providing the musical ambiance. In the afternoon, a stage was set at the backfield. Tables and stalls stood surrounding the venue. The street between C building and BC building became the initial meeting place for the parade. The order was by batch. The city streets made way for the spectacle—the parade of eagles. Some were aboard pick-up trucks, dressed in costumes ala cosplays and were being cheered on by street children. As the evening approaches, more and more alumni came. Some had their kids with them, while others, their grandkids. The backfield was teeming with Christmas lights and food filled the buffet tables. Cheers and laughter jived to the sound of song and dance performances on stage. It was a night of various trips down memory lane.
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PHOTO COURTESY OF ATFEST DOCUMENTATION TEAM
ArtFest:
Unity in Artistry WRITTEN BY AYESHA TULETE
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ights sparkling, buntings hanging, dried leaves rustling—the Ateneo Fiesta had undeniably brought forth cultural ingeniousness through the Art Festival celebrated all week long. Held from December 3-8, 2018, various tribes from the different Academic Organizations (AOs) glorified the diversity of Filipino Culture by participating in the Parada Atenista, Galleria de Cultura, Mannequin and Mini-Arko Exhibit Designing, and the Retrato Ateneo. Day 01 of the Ateneo Fiesta and drums were already banging as the tribes paraded down the street of La Purisima. Wearing the colors
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of their AOs, the Ateneans blissfully screamed their hearts out, proudly embodying each tribe. The Parada Atenista signified the kickoff of the Festival with all the tribes uniting as one to welcome the Ateneo Fiesta 2018. Present in the parade were the tribes of Sama and Ifugao, represented by the Grade 11 Direwolves and Grade 12 Titans, respectively. They were stern and roaring, filling the crowd with harmony. With the colors of violet and white, the tribes of Maguindanao and Tagalog represented by the College of Law Knights and School of
Medicine Huskies gave their all in flaunting their ambassadors and ambassadresses with stupefying, supporting characters behind. Hailed as Darling of the Crowd, the Science and Information Technology Academic Organization joins the horde with the Kalinga-dressed students as front-liners. Along with them are the Yakan, Tagbanua, and T’boli tribes represented by the Management Academic Organization Lions, School of Liberal Arts and Education, and the Junior High School Falcons, respectively. Not just these tribes, but the ever-dynamic Faculty and Staff Wolves did not let their numbers hinder, they paved their way toward the streets with the Tausug spirit. Among these tribes, standing out in particular was the Accountancy Academic Organization (AAO) Ardent Tigers as they dominated the Parada Atenista with their symphonic yell along with smiles and cheers, representing the tribe of Maranao, and bagged the first place. Just like what their yell screamed, indeed “Accountancy
PHOTO COURTESY OF ATFEST DOCUMENTATION TEAM R
Aside from the Galleria de Cultura, the Mannequin and Mini-Arko Exhibit Designing likewise contributed to the exposure of the culture and tradition of the many tribes represented by the AOs. Innovating an extravagant and extremely resourceful exhibit, the NAO Angels personified the culture of the Manobo tribe through their Mannequins, accompanied by the Mini-Arko. The Manobo clothes are considered to be one of the prominent, conspicuous preserved traditions of its people. The Angels had successfully done their job excellently, bringing home the first place. What’s more, Angels may be their name, but they surely set the lenses on fire as they topped the Retrato Ateneo with their winning piece titled “Bayla y Bula” photographed by Deen de Jesus. It portrayed one of the couples in the Dancesports Competition dancing their way to the finals. Regardless whether it is in Parada Atenista, Galleria de Cultura, Mannequin and MiniArko, or the Retrato Ateneo, props goes to the whole Ateneo Community for partaking in the
PHOTO COURTESY OF RETRATRO ATENISTA WINNER
win, Accountancy fight.” Seconded the AAO, the Nursing Academic Organization (NAO) Angels also put up a show for the people of Zamboanga as they walked the streets showcasing different, dashing attires of the Manobo tribe.
celebration of culture through art. Everyone had truly proven themselves well: the Ifugao, Kalinga, Manobo, Maranao, Maguindanao, Tausug, Yakan, T’boli, Tagbanua, Tagalog, Zamboangueño, Subanen, Sama, and the Waray.
As ardent as they are, the AAO did not just dominate the Parada, but also slayed the Galleria de Cultura. With indigenous and synthetic materials, the Tigers exhibited the uniqueness of the culture and tradition of the Maranao tribe. Known as the “People of the Lake”, the Maranao tribe has long been inhabiting the lands around Lake Lanao, which is lauded as one of the ancient lakes in the world.
The ArtFest in AtFest had served its purpose—to showcase the uniqueness of tribes and exemplify Junto Todo Tribo Ateneo. Indeed, despite the many differences amongst the groups, art always brings people together.
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s the colorful bulbs along Camino Loyola flickered to life, they signaled the dawning of the night in the Ateneo de Zamboanga University Salvador campus. If the day revealed fierce and brave athletes battling it out in different sport events, the night, however, offered a different scene. As evening came, the beat started, the tunes played, hearts spoke, ─and the music began. Coro Ateneo: The Ateneo Fiesta Chorale Festival While solo-singing in public can be tough for some, singing in harmony with others, is another matter. Witnessing the performances during Coro Ateneo, gave the impression that, the latter was just as easy as pie for the participants. The Coro Ateneo showcased the talents of Ateneans in creating harmony amidst differences in tones and in incorporating movements in synchronization with the singing. In this year’s chorale competition, a touch of ethnicity gave flavor and distinct meaning to the performances. Choirs from different academic organizations sang traditional hymns, following the theme, “Junto Todo Tribo Ateneo”. The Grade 12 Titans placed first, the Faculty and Staff placed second and the Nursing Angels placed third.
Open Mic If given the opportunity to belt out your heart`s innermost feelings in front of an audience, would you dare to step up and take the mic? PHOTO COURTESY OF ATFEST DOCUMENTATION TEAM
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JAMMING to
Song-filled EVENINGS
BY KARL ONAYAN & KELLY CASSANDRA TEJA
When the night came, talents surfaced.
In the evening of December 5, at Canisius Garden, the Open Mic commenced. It gave the Ateneans the opportunity to be in the spotlight and express themselves through spoken poetry and music. Coming from different Academic Organizations, they came together and dared themselves to sing and perform their hearts out.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ATFEST DOCUMENTATION TEAM
Battle of the Bands: Ateneo Fiesta Band Showdown 16 songs, 8 bands, 1 battle, 1 champion. The Battle of the Bands, held at the MPCC on the night of December 6, drove the crowd wild as Ateneans performed alternative rock and Original Filipino Music (OPM) ensembles showcasing their gift of music. Emerging as champions were the AAO Ardent Tigers, with SITAO Griffins ending at second place, and the Faculty and Staff snagging third place.
Praise Jam PHOTO COURTESY OF RANDY PANAGUITON
On December 6, as the Battle of the Bands commenced, so did the Praise Jam. The Praise Jam gave the Ateneo Community the enjoyment to indulge in music while giving praise and thanks to the Almighty One. Individuals from different religions flocked in, raised their arms, and joined in the singing of praise songs. All were one in worship. These 4 events -- Coro Ateneo, Open Mic, Battle of the Bands and the Praise Jam, concretely manifest two things: the Ateneans` innate love for music as Filipinos, and our desire to unite ourselves as one in the spirit of lyrics, rhythm, and tempo. We may bear different sigils, but we were one in tune and melody. The Ateneo Fiesta would not be complete without music filling the air, voices giving goosebumps and arms waving along to praise songs. Atfest’18 gave the community a chance to enjoy good music and build new friendships among academic organizations. As the colorful bulbs were switched off, and everything was back to normal, these events left us with tunes to hum till the end of the academic year. Despite being driven to go for the gold, there was something stronger than the determination to win --- our bond as Ateneans. Indeed, Junto Todo Tribo Ateneo. Cheers to this Atfest’s Musika Atenista!
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At Fest Night Life
WRITTEN BY SHARMAINE CANAMA
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he night sky could be dark and gloomy, but the people would still be hooked to all of AtFest’s night events as this fiesta is shaded with bright lights and exhilarating details. Each festive night of the week-long fiesta unveiled different set of events that any nocturnal ought not miss. One night was dedicated to a live performance of an indie folk pop band then the next night was all for vocal music in tune to tribal identity. Your Php 10 entrance fee would be so worth it once you witness the fiery dance showdown from pop to ballroom to cultural dance. From a wide repertoire of songs to spontaneous dance showdowns, night events during AtFest served us all a rightful festive mood.
Blue Eagles or Owls? The jam-packed night event usually ended almost midnight.
The night at the MPCC was chock-a-block with each AO’s jubilant uproar. Each tribe that respectively represebted by an academic organization, chanted and cheered with loud cries, screams and shouts of “Junto Todo, Tribo Ateneo” warmed up the whole week. The element of mastery, execution and voice were the next big things for a hundred and fifty yell participants. The noticeable pop of the various frat shirt colors in the bleachers were almost magical. Brightly colored pompoms and cloth strips were flying in synchronization from left to right. The scintillating large letter props of the NAO caught eyes of everyone. SITAO were commendable for being the wittiest organization as their flags and banners stood out from the rest of the flags waving. “EXTEND ATFEST TO 8080” was all in the right button as most still demands to prolong the fiesta. Remarkably the huge Shopee logo made a flash sale of smile to the spectators. Every night on the vast gym floor, the Cultural Ambassadors and Ambassadresses PHOTO COURTESY OF RANDY PANAGUITON
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made a great platform for cultural sensitivity. On the finale they each wore their cultural attire that truly captured the tribal beauty of the Philippines. For five consecutive evenings, they showcased every angle of their tribes. They promoted the individuality of each AO’s tribe especially at nightfall when the Cultural Ambassadors embodied the T’boli ethnic group (Junior High School), Sama (Grade 11), Ifugao (Grade 12), Kalinga (SITAO), Maranao (AAO), Yakan (MAO), Tagbanua (SLAE), Manobo (NAO), Tagalog (SOM), Subanen (GRAD), Maguindanao (COL), Tausug (FS), Chavacano (Alumni) and Waray (Grade School). Attendees became witnesses to the cultural roots of dances amongst tribes last December 8.
Exploring the buzzy food hubs One of the ‘must try things’ at the mostawaited celebration was to splurge on scrumptious food and beverages. Because when one feels the hunger at night, oh there’s no turning back from the magnetic pull of the food stalls lining the university streets. A total fiesta expenditure.
Highlights of the night In case you missed it, on the first night was
the Kaulayaw Music Festival where the band Ben & Ben performed, on the second night poet and spoken word artists Juan Miguel Severo and Alfonso Manalastas were back for DOUBLE TROUBLE, then there were continuous astonishment at Baile Ateneo and AtFest Theme live performances. Tribes made high-pitched whistles and buzzing sounds at Coro Atenista on the third night, Praise Jam and Band Showdown hyped up the fourth night, for the fifth night electrifying showdown at Ateneo’s Best Dance Crew in different beats ruled the night away, and on the last night was the final dance and chants of each tribe. Because of these night events, spectators and participants came home late either with smiles on their faces or with their main doors locked, or both. We all know for a fact that the Ateneo Fiesta celebration adds enthusiasm and fun to any Atenean in the midst of busy and crazy academic or working life. Our light-hearted gaiety is always used as an excuse to gather units as Un Familia. The sense of oneness is what the core value of Ateneo Fiesta is. The AtFest night is always livelier and brighter than the day. It’s easy to say that sound is awake when the sun is asleep. PHOTOS BY ATFEST DOCUMENTATION TEAM ATFEST Special | 11
PHOTO COURTESY OF RANDY PANAGUITON
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ynchronization and creative movements---a� recipe for attention. Accompanied by head-bobbing music and you got yourself a magnetic performance. It pulls you in for a sensational feast and it gets you all pumped up. Baile Atenista and the Pop Dance competition definitely gave us that effect. Night events that fill up the MPCC to the rim and make the crowd go wild during performances. Most awaited events? Definitely. People squeeze into and squirm their way through the crowd just to find seats. You see shadows pass by all around you saying things like “Scuse me…padaan po…ay sorry.” Even outsiders make an effort to line up and hope not to hear the guard say “Sorry cut-off na po”. But who’s to blame? Watching a jaw-dropping choreography at the same time feeling a shiver running up your spine every time the beat drops just makes your eyes dilate and your heart scream for more. But a question remains, what makes dance competitions the most awaited events during the Ateneo Fiesta?
Sayaw Ateneo A feast for our eyes to see, ears to hear, hearts to love and minds to be blown.
BY SOPHIA DEL CASTILLO & RENZ SUAREZ
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Wow! What a concept. In any type of dance performance, the creativity of the overall concept is the thing that makes the people move to the edge of their seats. The dance crews go through tons of head-scratching nights to think of a theme that will serve as their motif in crafting the best routine that will surely make the crowd go wild. Incorporating the appropriate music for a particular dance routine will definitely bring the crowd to their feet with their high-pitched screams and thundering applause. People want to search for a storyline in dance performances, and these carefully-thought-out concepts adds drama and meaning. Choreography and music, a match made in heaven. Another reason why people do everything just to secure a good seat in dance competitions is the anticipated unique
PHOTO COURTESY OF RANDY PANAGUITON
choreography by the performers. People always want something new to their eyes – picturesque formations that you wouldn’t have even imagined the human body can do. Hence, it is crucial for dancers to conceptualize a routine that separates them from the rest. Music choice is also a key to the people’s hearts; be it a throwback, a pop song, or even a famous meme remix. We may not know what type of music and choreography we want, but they do it for us, they’re the ones who woo us with what they got in store for us.
the crowd’s retinas; the good kind of burn. The climax of the performance is a must and not a choice. This part of the performance is where they truly blow our minds out. Expecting for the unexpected; everyone’s eagerly waiting for Jack to come out of his box. Indeed, it leaves a nice impression on the audience and the judges as well.
People want to be wowed, they want to be impressed, and they want to have a great time. So based on a made up version of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, the people shouldn’t “Pasabog”, a Jack-in-the- miss the ground-shaking dance box. performances by the different teams. A feast for our eyes to The surprise element of see, ears to hear, hearts to love choreography or the so-called and minds to be blown away. pasabog greatly contributes to why people want to experience a live dance production. The pasabog will definitely leave a mark on the mind of the people. If they do it right, it’ll burn through
PHOTOS BY ATFEST DOCUMENTATION TEAM
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SIGILS COURTESY OF ATFE DATA PROVIDED BY ATFES COMPILED BY ELEAZAR TO 14 | ATFEST Special
EST 2018 CREATIVE TEAM ST AWARDS COMMITTEE ORRES & YUSRHINA USMAN ATFEST Special | 15
AtFest 2018 Champ and
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Almost Champs Think Not Only of Gold
WRITTEN BY SHARMAINE CANAMA & AYESHA TULETE • PHOTO COURTESY OF ARDENT TIGERS
echnical, tactical, physical, mental, and moral—how do winners perform the best? Ateneo de Zamboanga University is once anew in high spirit for its annual festive line-up of activities throughout December 3 – 8, 2018 themed as “Junto Todo Tribo Ateneo.
With the solidity that came with leaderboards, each Academic Organization’s (AO) Championship roadmap built the stamina of teamwork and togetherness.
AAO: The 4-Peat Champ
When asked about how the AO exemplified “Junto Todo Tribo Ateneo”, AAO Governor Ms. Camille Sahirul said that, “The Accountancy Academic Organization (AAO) for us is a family, a home of the brave and talented tigers. AAO aims its members to uphold and practice the Ignatian values of Magis and Cura Personalis through our talents and skills. AAO exemplified “Junto Todo Tribo Ateneo” by uniting ourselves as one despite the diversity and developed camaraderie for a strong foundation and friendship not just within our AO but also with other AOs. For us, Ateneo Fiesta is not just all about competition and winning. It’s all about the experience of representing our AO, enjoying all the activities and appreciating talents regardless of the results. At the end of the day, these competitions, activities or AtFest as a whole is a learning experience for all of us.”
Tiger’s paw print; a trademark in the Ateneo Fiesta indeed.
It is a nope for AAO on games played Hard Mode.
How did AOs Think, Train and Thrive? To perform and excel were all participants’ personal mission, thus, aiming to place first, second, or third thrilled the cordial competition against one another. The strength of a family, stamina of cooperation, and the conditioning of emotions outmaneuvered the tribes’ adversity.
It is another trophy to add on AAO’s shelf. Accountancy students seized again as Champion and dominated this year’s week-long celebration. These juggernauts reigning Ateneo Fiesta is not new to everybody as they have won for four years already. The Accountancy Academic Organization had again proven to the Ateneo Community that they do not just perform well in academics but can also excel in various tilts. 16 | ATFEST Special
What one tribal quality has mainly helped you achieve success for your AO? Ms. Sahirul believed that “The Maranao people are known for being very passionate in all the things that they do. I believe that this quality helped us achieve the success of our organization. I believe that all
of us contributed to the success in any way possible. We, as tigers, kept the fire burning within us despite the issues and challenges. We give our best in everything we do and we put our minds and hearts to best represent our AO. We also did not mind so much about the results because we reminded ourselves that the AtFest is a time to celebrate talents and camaraderie; that whatever happens, win or lose, what is important is that we created new memories with amazing people.” In the course of the game on the annual celebration, there will always be victories and conquest and this AO only took boundless pleasure in their victory—and defeat.
and achieving goals together, we also made sure we played and participated in the activities—bringing the willingness all for our AO.” For the Titans, playing is their game. What one tribal quality has mainly helped you achieve success for your AO? “The tribal quality that helped us achieve success is having the sense of dedication and hardwork because through these, we were able to have fun, learn, unite, and succeed,” Mr. Wee expressed. Winning is good; having fun at the same time is better.
NAO: The Ascending Contender Angels they were as they ascended their way to the second place. Independent and strong-willed, the Nursing Academic Organization had as well proven themselves to be worthy of being on top given all their efforts and exerted excellence in the various events conducted during the Ateneo Fiesta 2018. How did your AO exemplify “Junto Todo Tribo Ateneo”? “The Nursing Academic Organization embodied unity in diversity in all aspects during the whole celebration of the Ateneo Fiesta 2018. We celebrated the fiesta with different colors, respecting one another during sports, and non-sports as a reflection of what true Sportsmanship is. We showcased our tribe, the Manobo, who are called to be river people, in the different events we have participated. On a greater note, the angels have exemplified the theme by joining the Ateneo community as one in this year’s Ateneo Fiesta,” NAO Governor Mr. Grant Wynn Arnuco shared. Unity in diversity matters to NAO.
MAO: The Persistent Predator The Management Academic Organization was an unstoppable predator lurking in the Ateneo Fiesta ready to strike from the shades. Majesty, strength, courage, and wisdom are some of a lion’s many totem. The Yakan tribe basked their place on fourth spot as the lions, like the Yakans, were strong and serious. How did your AO exemplify “Junto Todo Tribo Ateneo”? MAO Governor Ms. Kimberly Ann Fernandez proudly addressed that “MAO exemplified the theme “Junto Todo Tribo Ateneo” by being humble and by cheering for everyone. We supported the performance of our fellow AOs and even adapted their yell to be able to cheer with them. We encouraged all AOs to play their best game by cheering them, may it be from our headquarters’ (XH302) windows or by the bleachers. All we wanted was a fair judgment and sound reasoning. We accepted all the losses and wins we had as long as our participants enjoyed and did their best.” Indeed, Lions drew the chariot of friendship.
What one tribal quality has mainly helped you achieve success for your AO? Mr. Arnuco started, “Resilience. Manobos are known to be resilient in their early lives. They have faced difficult situations in their tribe and used these situations to be better and stronger. Just like the NAO, we have been resilient with our shortcomings as an Academic Organization. We have fixed the gap between our freshmen and senior student nurses. We have been stronger this year and made it sure that we will do better as compared to last year’s performance.” “Brave. Manobos are known to be brave. They are willing to take any risks just for their tribe to survive. The NAO has become brave and bolder as an academic organization. We have gained the strength to overcome all the challenges that we have faced during the preparations, and even during the fiesta itself,” he added. In hopes to achieve what they now have, resiliency and bravery made it all happen for NAO. G12: The Baby Giants Spectacular beyond their age, the Grade 12 Titans conquered the leaderboards as they came in third place. The G12 had as well proven themselves to be at par with their ates and kuyas. How did your AO exemplify “Junto Todo Tribo Ateneo”? ASEC President Gerald Ace Wee said, “The SHS Grade 12 Titans did not only exemplify “Junto Todo Tribo Ateneo” by working
What one tribal quality has mainly helped you achieve success for your AO? “MAO adapted the Yakan quality of being a fierce warrior that follows a strong internal code of honor. Which means that we fight our way to success by being competitive but just and fair, we did not step on anyone but we did not underestimate our competitors, we followed a strong code of being humble, just, sound, and respectful everywhere we go, what games we play, who we compete with, and how peaceful we should be. We made sure to not involve ourselves in fights and issues that don’t concern us at all, and that as long as we are not being targeted or at the end of the stick (insults), we should just revel in our own success and be happy with what we have,” Ms. Fernandez said whose AO is mighty and determined. The MAO officers endeavored hard to give the student body and the freshmen a memorable year. Even alumnae went and helped to prepare the props and cheers on the AO’s behalf. They represented the ferocious heat of pride and courage. With all these statements of passion, resilience, and dedication, they serve as goad for the other competent Academic Organizations of this institution to aim and kick for that goal. With all these tribal qualities earned, equipped are the Ateneans not just for the succeeding Fiestas, but also for whatever may come. Under the same Ignatian roof, Junto Todo Tribo Ateneo. ATFEST Special | 17
BEHIND THE MUSIC WITH BEN & BEN By Tasha Eugenio & Christine Therese Oboy
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ith heartfelt tunes and relatable lyrics, Ben & Ben, a nine-piece Filipino band, captured the hearts of the millenials, especially the in love and the sawi. Exes baggage and Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral respective OSTs were by Ben & Ben. We know them as the band behind the famous chart-topping hits “Kathang Isip” and “Maybe the Night” but have you ever wondered how these nine are actually like in person? If they write their own songs or have it written by someone else? We got you covered! The Beacon Publications got the opportunity to get up close and personal with Ben & Ben last December 3 at the Kaulayaw Music Festival. After the meet and greet, a press conference was held with the 9 members composed of the twin brothers, Paolo and Miguel Guico on acoustic guitars and vocals, Poch Barretto on electric guitar, Jam Villanueva on drums, Agnes Reoma on bass, Patricia Lasaten on keyboards, Toni Muñoz and Andrew de Pano on percussions, and Keifer Cabugao on violin. What were your first impressions when you found out that you will be performing here in Zamboanga?
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Miguel Guico shared to us how he and DSA’s Sitti Chua met. “Sabi niya sana someday makarating kayo ng Zamboanga. Sabi namin “Kaya ba talaga
yun?. It’s very surreal that finally we’re here and we’re gonna play for all of you”, he said. Basically, the young ADZU employee was the bridge for the project to be possible. They added another insight as to how they came up with the name Ben & Ben. As mentioned by Poch Barretto, Paolo and Miguel Guico were already performing as “The Benjamins”, which came from their dad’s name. However, when they google-searched it, a lot of other bands bearing the same name came out, thus making them change it to Ben & Ben. What has been the impact to your band when you started performing together up until now that you are getting popular? More than the fame, it was the fact that they got closer together as a band that changed their lives, as shared by Keifer Cabugao. “We got to know each other more and I think that’s the biggest impact for me”, he said. For Miguel Guico, meeting people from different walks of life through their shows is one thing they always look forward to. They are incredibly trilled to meet new friends after each show.
PHOTO BY MOHAMMAD SARAJAN PHOTO BY MOHAMMAD SARAJAN
Where do you get the inspiration in composing your heartfelt songs? Is everyone involved in the process?
Where do you see your band 10 years from now? Do you think that you will still be playing or will you pursue other careers besides music?
Apparently, they write their songs as a band. Miguel mentioned that their songs are basically their stories. “I think the reason why we connect with people easily through our songs is because it’s like we’re telling them a story”, he explained. With all the feedbacks and comments the band is getting online, it seems that many Filipinos, millenials or not, are fond of their songs as can relate to the stories these songs tell.
“I would be a Master Chef”, said Miguel. Keifer suggested, however, that Miguel should run for senator or congressman. Kidding aside, Miguel foresaw that ten years from now, they’d still be doing exactly what they are doing now. “We’re really just pushing ourselves so that we can go the farthest that we can while we’re here… in this earth. Joke.” Clearly, they can be both goofy and serious at the same time.
At first glance, you might feel like the band members are serious and very formal, but they’re actually the opposite of that. They’re easy to talk to and they love to joke around. These characteristics are evident from their answers to the following questions.
PHOTO BY MOHAMMAD SARAJAN
Meanwhile, Patricia and Keifer teased the audience about a song that is soon to be released. They hinted that this might be their favourite song to perform. Paolo, on the other hand, cracked that the piece he liked to perform the most is the one that has his shortest singing lines because he’s fond of staring at Miguel while performing.
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PHOTO BY MOHAMMAD SARAJAN
TRIVIA What’s the song that you love to perform the most? Agnes Reoma Maybe the Night
Keifer Cabugao Maybe the Night
Miguel Guico Maybe the Night
Toni Muñoz Sunrise
When was the most memorable performance that you had as a band?
The conference ended Andrew’s advice to all Ateneans:
Andrew answered “Mamaya!” which filled the room with giggles from both the crowd and the band members. Jam proudly hinted that their most memorable performance was yet to happen and would likely be at the Kaulayaw Music Festival.
“..the education Ateneo gives teaches you to look into yourselves.” He firmly believes that the way Ateneo taught him to really go for what he felt made him unique as a person. “We’re all in this world for a purpose, and we search for that purpose. Without Ateneo, I wouldn’t have the courage to follow a difficult path like this” he shared. “To all Ateneans, really go for what you love and find that middle ground of what you love to do and what the world needs from you.”
How to find a Kaulayaw?
Patricia Lasaten Sunrise
Poch Barretto Sunrise
PHOTO COURTESY OF BEN & BEN FACEBOOK PAGE
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According to Patricia, it is better to take things slowly first rather than being in a rush. Andrew somewhat agreed as he deemed it better to start off as friends with someone you like. Meanwhile, everyone was in awe with Toni’s advice, “Before finding an intimate companion in another person, you should first find a companion in yourself”. Miguel advised that once you finally found your Kaulayaw, you two may enjoy streaming ‘Maybe the Night’ and hopefully not ‘Kathang isip’ as this song is about heartbreak.
with
In a nutshell, Ben & Ben is a band of storytellers that ought to make their listeners relate and connect with them. The sincerity of each word in every lyric of the songs they write became a pathway for many people to continuously admire them, thus making them as one of the most promising Filipino bands of the year.
PHOTO COURTESY OF RANDY PANAGUITON
Grand AtFest 2018 Finale: a Cultural Dance Hotpot BY PUTLI MONAIRA AMILBANGSA II
W
hat better way to end a celebration of the beauty of diversity than to showcase the different cultural dances and rituals of the many ethnic tribes of the Philippines each represented by AdZU’s academic organizations? On the night of December 8, before the closing and awarding ceremony of AtFest 2018, the SAYAW NG TRIBONG ATENEO: Cultural Dance Contest demanded the Ateneo community’s cheers for one last time.
Various dance interpretations and rituals were performed that night but a few performances were crowd favorites and highlights. There were the breath halting banga or pot balancing by the SITAO cultural dancers, the Yakan dance on plates executed by the MAO dancers, the dynamic and colorful Singkil performance of AAO, and the magnificent T’boli bird dance interpretation of the JHS dancers. However, the champions for this event proved to deserve such a title. The Grade 11 DIREWOLVES who were the champions of the night performed the Sama-Badjao Janggay dance thrilled the audience with their colorful costumes and lively music. Their cultural dance even depicted how the people of the Sama tribe were seafarers with their boats and paddles. The Janggay dance is performed with the dancers wearing metal fingernails or claws from where the dance name is derived from and dancers moving to the discipline of pangalay.
with their eerie performance along with actors looking like pagan witches attacking the tribe. The dancers showcased how a Babaylan, or the high priestess, lead the ritual being the leader of the tribe and how tribe offenders face severe punishment through rituals. This kind of demonstration can be commonly seen during the Pagdiwata Ritual Festival Celebrated by the Tagbanua people of Palawan. This is an annual event acknowledging the role of deities in healing the sick and the needy, sometimes people offer prayers for their departed loved ones. The Pagdiwata also celebrates a good harvest or successful hunting trip.
Ranking third place were the Nursing Academic Organization (NAO) Angels who performed a series of Manobo dances such as Dugso, Kinugsikugsi and Kaamulan. Their synchronized performance with their flamboyant red, black, white and yellow costumes impressed the audience. They truly gave off a grand festival vibe giving justice to their cultural dance. The Dugso which means “dance” is a ceremonial dance among the Manobo people in Bukidnon usually Coming in second place were the School of performed during important occasions like feasts) Liberal Arts and Education (SLAE) Phoenix Dragons or tribal gatherings. Festivities celebrating abundant who performed a theatrical interpretation of a harvest, the birth of a male heir or victory in war are Tagbanua ritual called Pagdiwata. The Pagdiwata is also reasons for performing Dugso. An interesting a ritual done on a full moon night to give thanks for a part of NAO’s cultural dance was their use of live good harvest, and for healing the sick or wounded. instrumental performance. The SLAE cultural dancers silenced the audience ATFEST Special | 21
PHOTO BY ATFEST DOCUMENTATION TEAM
A rather unfitting question for an event meant to celebrate the culture Ateneo has accumulated through history. Or is it not? For Ateneans, Valentine’s happens twice in a year—February 14th and Ateneo Fiesta. Just a week before AtFest, the #AtFestJowa trended on social media. People were tweeting about it on Twitter, posting about it on Facebook, and uploading about it on their Instagram stories and Snapchat. The hashtag was everywhere. In fact, for quite some time, the hype for a #AtFestJowa was surprisingly greater than the hype for the Ateneo Fiesta itself. Here a few of the posts bearing the hashtag that proliferated the Ateneo online community:
“It’s not AtFest if you don’t have a jowa. #AtFestJowa” “Sino gusto maging #AtFestJowa ko? I’m accepting applications.” “Kahit one week lang na jowa then break na agad. HAHAHAH #AtFestJowa”
With such a trend, one would imagine the Ateneo to be a paradise for couples. Couples walking the hallways and alleys holding hands. Couples drinking from a single cup and eating from a single plate. Couples having a picnic under the night sky in the field. Couples, couples, couples. Not really. Though there actually were couples around, they only represented a minuscule of the Ateneo Fiesta population. Who were walking the hallways and alleys holding hands? Friends who crazily availed the love chain for no reason. Who were drinking from a single cup and eating from a single plate? Friends trying to save money for the days to come. Who were having a picnic under the night sky in the field? Friends who decided to save the Php 10 MPCC event entrance fee and simply listen to the sounds from the outside as they shared secrets and enjoyed deep and juicy conversations. Surely, having a #AtFestJowa sounds wonderful. You have one person whom you can journey with through the entire Ateneo Fiesta. However, it is not the only way by which one can have the best #AtFest2018 of their lives. Instead of looking wherever, try looking around. You already have your friends by your side, or maybe strangers whom you can kindle a new friendship with. As they say, “Friends are God’s way of taking care of us.” When we value friendship, we value God as well. And that’s killing two birds with one stone. Now, should we start a #AtFestSquad for next year?
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PHOTO BY ATFEST DOCUMENTATION TEAM
“GGWP, Good Game, Well played” yell from the crowd of hardcore players and fans of MOBAs as it is being highlighted this recently concluded AtFest 2018. The announcement from the committee of AtFest 2018 to host DOTA 2 and Mobile Legends tournaments raised a huge furor from the avid players and fans of these two well-known multiplayer online battle arenas (MOBAs). Observing the true spirit of AtFest, Mythics and Immortals from different colors of shirt assembled their own teams to clash against each other and to claim the title of being the best and the last to say “ez”.
What is E-sport? E-sport is a competitive, organized, multiplayer video gaming. Contenders from different squads or teams face off to determine who’s better in their choice of video game. DOTA 2 and Mobile Legends are just two of the e-sport games earning fame in the campus. Other known e-sports games are Fortnite, Counter Strike: Global Offensive, League of Legends, and PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds. Like other sports we know (e.g. basketball and softball), it takes time to master and develop certain set of skills needed to do well in these games. Players invest huge amount of time and effort to refine and enhance these set of skills. It involves strategic planning to meet the objectives of the game; and, of course, teamwork and unity to be victorious--which essentially are the true spirit of the Ateneo Fiesta. E-sport was recently recognized as a legitimate sport by the government; thus penetrating its way in the Ateneo Fiesta as one of the events awaited and appreciated by many.
What sTART E-sport? Ateneo Fiesta steering committee and volunteers, determined and wished to give the best, long-awaited, oncein-a-year AtFest to students, alumni, and faculty and staff; to include avid gamers. According to Raymund Brix Galvez, the point person of the tournament, surveys were conducted and the voices of the masses answered that e-sports should be included in this year’s Ateneo Fiesta; hence, the launch of the e-sports tournament. Overall, the players and spectators gave positive feedback on the event although there were technical difficulties encountered like the event starting late due to computers that lack the necessary files. Nevertheless, the problem was immediately solved, thanks to the quick response of the steering committee. The tournament, went smoothly making the first-ever e-sport tournament a success. Gamers and e-sports fans got the AtFest they felt they deserved.
The future of E-sport E-sport is a fast growing sport and is now being recognized by many; especially by AdZU students which surprisingly includes females and some members of the faculty and staff. AtFest 2018 introducing and highlighting e-sports was a remarkable step by the committee as they gave spotlight to other types of athletes whose strengths may not be their physical attributes, but speed of thought, time reaction, strategic planning, and teamwork. Many are hoping that e-sports will be a regular event in the Ateneo Fiesta. Surely, it will be a great avenue for “e-athletes” to showcase their expertise and be known and recognized by many.
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WRITTEN BY CHRISTINE THERESE OBOY GRAPHICS BY ANDREA NICOLE ZAMORA
A
tfest is the time when you normally get thrilled by the idea of seeing yourself walking through the food hub lane with frappe on one hand and phone on another as you take countless selfies and landscape pictures that you will be uploading later in IG stories and MyDay. Despite being too familiar with each corner of the 4.3 hectares ADZU campus, you roam around like it’s your first time while displaying your well-thought-of outfit-of-the-day. When you get a little bored, you casually decide to visit the game courts and get hyped by the intense race of the competing teams’ score. Perhaps the only dilemma you face is when watching night events, with the Php 10.00 entrance fee and the fact that you’ll be home late. Unless if you’re an athlete who has a 7:00am call time for some games, you can nonetheless attend the Fiesta the next day anytime you want to. But for an Atfest Steering Committee or a camera if you’re from the Documentation Volunteer, fun and chill are almost nowhere Team. In addition, some headquarters feel like to be found. kilometers away from the event place causing you heavy breaths upon arrival. Moreover, after Being an Atfest volunteer requires ample arriving home late every night, you’re required time and sincere efforts. Unlike the others, to be at school early the next day to prepare you don’t get to dilly-dally around. While for another event. “Stress all the way”, they say. your well-dressed schoolmates fashionably However, the life of a volunteer isn’t a case of a ramp along the school hallways, people see misfortunate event. In everything that one goes you run from one area to another, with all the through, what matter is how one sees the silver sweat rolling through your face, carrying all lining. As such, these are the perks of being an the necessaries for an event to take place, Atfest Volunteer:
1. 24 | ATFEST Special
Yep, definitely first on the list! The Php 60.00 meal stub is a luxury given to the tipid-type who’s overwhelmed by the prices each food stall offers. Lunch and dinner meal stubs are available for the working steering committee. However, not all stalls honor the said stub, there are only a few who do. Nonetheless, they are of great help when saving some money is part of your to-do-list in the course of the Ateneo Fiesta.
2.
While an ordinary event-goer would have to pay the Php 10.00 event entrance fee, you get a free access in almost all events (that is if you’re available during the said time of the event). Another saving perk! Additionally, some are privileged with a good seating spot. In exchange, however, unlike the others, you don’t get to watch the show that much if you’re one of those working during the performances.
3.
All Atfest Volunteers would agree that being part of the steering committee is a good training ground, especially for students. You learn how to manage big events from scratch, document each euphoric moment, market in order to raise funds, supervise different performances, handle conflicts and grievances and a lot more. These are all for free. You are given the opportunity to discover the skills you never knew you had in the first place and develop the talents you dread recognizing. You improve your interpersonal skills as you make friends with people coming from different units.
4.
Ateneo Fiesta is an excellent avenue for you to get a grasp and live out the Atenean values of Magis and Cura Personalis. You learn the value of Magis by your way of extending your heart and hands out for the success of the celebration despite not being paid for it. All services are given for free. You learn Cura Personalis through teamwork. When you fail to carry out your assigned tasks, help is being given by another volunteer---a sign of showing care.
Sure, as a volunteer you don’t get to ramp along the school hallways as much as your schoolmates do. While the others are busy supporting their respective units, you’re busy organizing an event, all while remaining impartial to all the participating units. You get lack of sleep and pounds of sweat after a day of work. However, nothing compares to the level of fulfillment you gain after the celebration itself. To be a part of a successful project is already big achievement, but to learn and grow from the experience of being one is another milestone. Mad proud to all the volunteers in the recently concluded Ateneo Fiesta 2018! ATFEST Special | 25
A Constant Retelling: Exploring the Bangsamoro Narratives: A Review BY SHARIFUL MANSUL Fresh from the press, Amir Mawallil’s A Constant Retelling: Exploring the Bangsamoro Narratives provides us not just a new book, but a new lens, or in his vocabulary, narrative. The origin of this narrative, however, is not near to new, for it has sprung from a six-century history of a people— the Moros. On December 1, 2018, this collection of essays was launched in the Gallery of the Peninsula and the Archipelago in Ateneo de Zamboanga University where the author earned his Communications degree a decade ago. He is now a journalist and serves as the director of ARMM’s public information office. “Narratives, unlike historical documentation, are not devoid of values, agenda-setting, and yes, politics,” declares the author in the book’s third essay. Mawallil brings with him an alternative way of making sense of Philippine history. Here, the distinction between narratives and historical data must be drawn. The book does not speak of secrets not heard before. The curious can always satisfy herself in the Internet age. What the book did, with equal importance, is argue for an angle from which history is viewed. We call this angle Bangsamoro narrative. It is also important, however, to emphasize that narratives in a way conceal, bend, modify, or provide a direction to the objective reality of history. This is where the necessity of the Bangsamoro narrative enters. It alleviates, opposes, balances, history as narrated by what Mawallil calls the grand Filipino narrative, by the perpetrators as in the case of the Marcos regime. It pulls the spotlight to the wounds, to the often ignored truths that might stain our image us a nation united, but is urgent if a part of this nation is to be healed. Healing starts from remembering, and remembering starts from recognition. Mawallil’s gift does just that. But the past is past, and we got new issues to problematize. Mawallil would counter-argue that we cannot move forward until certain things are corrected. Progress is built on history which provides the frame by which the future is projected. We remember, for example, so that past mistakes will not be repeated, so that we can evade what is unwanted and pursue the otherwise. To neglect our past and its injustices is to concede to the tendency that these injustices may, again, occur at some part in the future. But we should be careful here. Remembrance should be critically managed in a way that it does not foster hatred to the other. Its function must limit itself to a red X mark, a correction, a token of wisdom from our predecessors. The awareness to this distinction is so crucial that it can determine whether one becomes a terrorist or a freedom fighter. We remember because we want to learn, heal, and move forward, not because we desire retribution.
“ The book does not speak of secrets not heard before.”
The last essay cites a recent incident of mishap. A Moro child was shot inside a mosque. It was on the 9th of June, Friday, and the year is 2018, not 1906 and not 1972. Just like what Mawallil wrote in the book’s preface, the stories here are a “living story.” He adds, “The end is not nigh. We are not finished yet.” To the youth, I myself included, how far can our tolerance level go in digesting the numerous news of our own people suffering in the hands of the unjust merely to be repeated a few years later? Let that simmer. 26 | ATFEST Special
THE
PUBLICATIONS
AtFest Issue Team
editorial board AtFest Issue Curator : Christine Therese Oboy Editor-in-Chief : Putli Monaira Amilbangsa II
Associate Editor for Reveille : Shekinah Crystal Batoy Associate Editor for Sinag : Sandy Beaufil Sisnorio
Associate Editor for Social Media: Fatima Mandangan Managing Editor : Mischa Jade Taup News Editor : Audrie Keith Sepe Feature Editor : Hasmina Alfad
Copy Reader (English) : Sylvia Lyssandra Tipoe Copy Reader (Filipino) : Rizanna Narag
Communications Officer : Candeline Galvan Head Cartoonist : Jonie Alaban
Head Photojournalist : Alfrancis Alcuizar Head Layout Artist : Eleazar Torres
Social Media Curator : Reyna Talitha Santos Adviser : Leah M. Panaguiton
WRITERS
Fatima Dia Ahaja, Abdel Aziz Alfad, Nisa Marie Alfaro, Clairizza Arcillas, Dither Atayde, Vinz Harold Basilio, Annafer Francine Besana, Deanna Rose Bucoy, Sharmaine Canama, Sophia Therese Del Castillo, Dave Cervas, Kim Loyd dela Cruz, Mickaella Joyce Dumayag, Tash-a-Deanna Eugenio, Anne Louise Falcasantos, Yves Joey Flores, Aisha Puy Ibrahim, Darwin Lacbao, Shannah Maree Lomboy, Harmony Lucero, Shariful Mansul, Erika Jenn Quisil, Joshua Salvador, Renz, Marion Suarez, Katleen Mae Tampos, Kelly Cassandra Teja, Alyssa Tubilag, Ayesha Tulete, Yurshina Usman, Joseph Gerald Yu PHOTOGRAPHERS
Charmine Grace Bannister, Teriez Michove Bokingkito, Jean Clarice Bue, Lance Kirby Gigante, Jerecho Salinel, Mohammad Sarajan, Shannen Marthy Semil
CARTOONISTS
Carl Anthony Amistoso, Josedel Ancheta, Gualbert Macaso Caces, Ma. Sofia Carro Falcasantos, Razty Guevera, Crystalane Hagonoy, Johanna Ismene Julian, Rania Malali, Karl Onayan, Nica Franz Visitacion LAYOUT ARTISTS
Kaheya Leigh Teano, Andrea Nicole Zamora CONTRIBUTORS
AtFest Creative Team, AtFest Documentation Team, Ben Padua, Geoffrey Rivera, Randy Panaguiton
ATFEST Special | 27
GRAPHICS BY REYNA TALITHA SANTOS