BusinessMirror August 20, 2023

DAVAO’S RISING BEACH ‘PARADISE’

Mindanao-based company ups ante in property development in the South

By Manuel T. Cayon

DAVAO CITY—When one thinks of an

away from the urban center, one would wish to venture into thinking that it could be a shoreline property, a vacation home, and a

Th is is the project called Samal Shores Residenza, the biggest yet to emerge from the most exciting development in this island garden city, which is soon to get connected to the mainland with the construction of a P23.039-billion bridge by 2027.

More than a residential project, the 150-hectare property development boasts of two five-star hotel edifices jutting out from the greeneries to get the best view of the shoreline of Samal and the skyline of Davao City, and a clubhouse perched atop the property’s highest point, at 104 meters above sea level, to offer a breathtaking view of Mount Apo, the country’s highest peak.

Opening salvo

“THIS will be our first salvo to super high-end development in the country,” said Celedonio A. Pile Jr., vice president for business development and special projects of Ulticon Builders Inc., the parent company of Tri-Gon Realty Corp. which is undertaking the project planning and construction.

Its 170-room hotel buildings have a convention facility for 1,200 guests and two helipads at the top. The first wing was opened in July,

Celedonio A. Pile Jr., vice president for business development and special projects of Ulticon Builders Inc. THE property’s beach line of the project.

and has since turned out booked sales all throughout, despite occupancy jitters among hotels across Asia and the world in the postCovid-19 pandemic era. The second wing would open in October on an optimistic foresight that the market is more than Davao City.

It’s Mindanao market, and for those in Luzon, what comes to mind is putting up a home here,” he said.

With the hotel architecture of long columns conspicuously standing wide abreast of spacious lobby, the owners of the property would introduce the buyers into the residenza villas “of the quality and lifestyle that they are buying into the property.”

This 11-digit-budget property development started almost a decade early, with the concept anchored on the dream of a connector bridge. The bridge had long been talked and hyped about to link the island with the most proximate Davao City, and owners soon gathered the best architects and planners of the industry, including a team of Igorot artisans from the Luzon uplands to install the stone brick walls that are synonymous with the centuries-old wall craftsmanship of the rice terraces in the Mountain Province.

Villas THE Samal Shores Residenza is the principal and flagship project allotted with 31 hectares of rolling terrain from near the beachfront going into the interior. Each lot has an average cut of 250 square meters and a small portion of land at the higher point has been dedicated to the more luxurious living space of 750 square meters. This portion of land offers a breezy view of the three-kilometer channel between the island and Davao City.

Some 8,000 square meters have been allotted to open space, allotted generously to the entire property, and future development would include a shopping mall, a medical facility and a police station. A golf course has been presented as another future development item.

Part of the touch of class of the property development is ascribed to the family of the property developer, who is into art, painting and landscape galore. “You marry this with good planners and you got the execution of the idea of the highest standard of what we can think about. One knows how ‘nice is nice’ but when you work together with a good planner who is good in these things, you got to magnify the ideas of the principal. That’s what we did here,” Pile said.

off-center property

garden city, very much akin to how this biggest high-end property development is being carved out of the Island Garden City of Samal.

‘You marry this with good planners and you got the execution of the idea of the highest standard of what we can think about. One knows how ‘nice is nice’ but when you work together with a good planner who is good in these things, you got to magnify the ideas of the principal. That’s what we did here.’

YARR65 DREAMSTIME.COM

MANUEL CAYON

FROM THE SIDELINES OF THE MAKATI-TAGUIG WAR: It was the best of times, it was the worst of times

(Editor’s note: The unprecedented legal battle between the cities of Taguig and Makati over the “EMBO” area adjacent to the Bonifacio Global City has spilled over into a seeming game of one-upmanship between two mayors over the “takeover” by Taguig of schools that had always been owned and fully funded by Makati’s taxpayers. We asked a fresh graduate of one of the schools, the Makati Science High School, from the batch “who got out just in time,” to share her thoughts on the tug-of-war.)

By Ana Zoe V. Davad

However, the Makati-Taguig tensions are far from news hot off the presses. It’s been an ongoing controversy for three decades, starting in the ’90s when Taguig filed a case against Makati in the Pasig Regional Trial Court (RTC) disputing their jurisdiction over the Enlisted Men’s Barrios (EMBOs). After a long and painful lawsuit, the Pasig RTC ruled in favor of Taguig in 2011.

Makati wouldn’t give up that easily, and filed a motion for reconsideration shortly afterwards. They also filed an appeal with the Court

of Appeals (CA), leading Taguig to also file a motion with the CA to accuse Makati of forum shopping. Forum shopping is an act of legal malpractice wherein the accused party takes essentially the same complaint to different courts to maximize the chances of a favorable ruling. The CA ruled in favor of Makati; later in the year, Taguig once again filed another complaint, and the back-and-forth continued. Th is dispute has simmered in the background for all of my years studying at Makati Science High School (now with a new, half-

humorous moniker of MakSci Taguig Branch). Indeed, many of those who I know live in said barangays come from military families. Bonifacio Global City (BGC), another parcel of land involved in the dispute, was a neighbor that

also became a frequent target of such jokes.

To make a long, painful story short: In the latest development, the Supreme Court ruled in Taguig’s favor during a territorial dispute over seven barangays in the EMBO area (namely Cembo, South Cembo, West Rembo, East Rembo, Comembo, Pembo and Pitogo). Also involved are 14 schools in the aforementioned area; these schools make up about twothirds of Makati’s schools and the vast majority of the student population besides.

In the collective consciousness of youth, the real concern isn’t necessarily the winner of the turf war, but what will happen to students while politicians play tug-of-war. The vast majority of students rely on the benefits provided by the Makati LGU, such as food packs, uniforms, socks, and even stationery. While Taguigeños do have similar benefits, the transition period is proving to be rough. For this school year’s Brigada Eskwela, parents and students alike were anxious about the kind of changes that new management would bring. Makati and Taguig’s respective LGUs seem to want to focus more on trading jabs in public than assuaging these concerns, though.

Most recently, Makati Mayor Abigail Binay raised the issue of ownership. While Taguig now has

jurisdiction over the 10 affected barangays and the 14 schools located there, Makati is still asserting ownership over the buildings themselves. The Makati LGU said it offered to continue providing the same benefits that it did to those who would be displaced, but was rejected by Taguig.

In an interview with CNN Philippines, Binay said the school supplies for over 40,000 students were ready for distribution since school opening is just around the corner, but that Taguig City Hall rejected this.

In return, Taguig Mayor Lani Cayetano claimed that Makati ignored their request for data necessary for planning benefits for schools in the EMBO area. We can anticipate that this kind of dialogue will continue for a good while.

A s much as social media might have you believe otherwise, though, comparing the quality of these benefits isn’t what’s on the forefront of every student’s mind, nor is “taking sides” between Makati and Taguig. It’s the almost laughably anticlimactic confirmation that these politicians see the magnitude of these benefits as a competition to be won, and not a public service to be done for their constituents. As if the side with the better benefits will win more points in this twisted game.

W hile pictures of “I Love Tagu-

ig” and “This Property Belongs to Makati” tarpaulins duking it out for space on school gates spread like wildfire on Facebook, there isn’t really anything one can do except laugh at the absurdity of it all.

Being an alumna of Makati Science High School, it feels sobering seeing so many changes in my alma mater. I find it hard to muster interest in juvenile political squabbles, but I also can’t look away knowing that the livelihoods of so many people depend on the outcome. The atmosphere among my batch is similar to tentative relief; we got out just in time, but what about everyone else who can still be caught in the crossfire?

Our underclassmen seem to be taking it in stride with all the memes circulating old GCs; perhaps being in the eye of the hurricane truly is calmer than watching it from afar. Editing the “Makati Science Hymn” and the “Makati March” is obviously no one’s main concern, but it has inspired a chuckle or two.

Wallowing in misery is hardly the most productive thing to do. Nietzsche may have famously said “Hope is the worst of all evils, as it prolongs the torment of man,” but pessimism doesn’t spark joy either. To continue living in these times, you have to find something you believe in more than the odds of failure.

DAVAO’S RISING BEACH ‘PARADISE’

Continued from A1

He said actual construction “came up better than what we expected.” And the Discovery Group, which manages the hotels, lent the quality signature.

“Part of the system [is], we wanted to establish that signature. When we go to the subdivision this is our level of aspiration for the quality standard,” he added. He said clients “go here, they see it, and modestly, they like it, it’s very visual.”

Price was never an issue in acquiring the property, Pile said, insisting on the vision of the owners “to instill even among clients to cocreate the value in the property.” We will not brag [about] it being five-star quality. It is here. This is our standard. We created this value, and we will enhance it. So the idea now is to bring it to the next level,” he said.

The biggest property development on the island was supposed to be that of the Malaysia-owned Ekran Berhad, also a high-end hotel and accommodation development company in Kuala Lumpur. It did not take off, however, after it was hit in succession by the Asian financial meltdown in 1996 and

the world financial crisis in 2008.

Online lifestyle

THE idea of a vacation home came up as an inspiration from an Indonesia shoreline property development several decades ago, “when Indonesia was about 10 years ahead of property development than the Philippines.”

A similar prototype was in Nasugbu, Batangas, with an 88-hectare property, like a peninsula jutting out to sea. While the vacation place was constructed in 1997, the idea of a vacation home made this Nasugbu resort an instant hit among Metro Manila residents during the Covid-19 pandemic, when people wanted to stay away from the epicenter of the contagion.

“ Besides, people came to adjust to the online lifestyle, and the idea of a second home away from the metropolis attracted residents,” he said.

Despite the online lifestyle, Zoom is still Zoom and the distance still makes residents feel extracted from their original urban home,” he added. It would be different for the Samal Shores Residenza. “It’s prox-

imate to Davao City, that it’s like still being home after a few minutes of travel from the city,” Pile pointed out.

“About five minutes or so from Davao City, you are already here in the property. And for Davao City residents, life is highly urban already. And they are going off center, away from the urban center, it’s like Manila already,” he added.

A nd when one thinks of a place away from the city, one would often think about a shoreline property, “a vacation home; the setting is a garden city much like what Samal is named,” Pile said.

This is a shoreline property, and whatever happens it is still a beach. And there is scarcity and that makes it expensive,” Pile said. Compare it with the posh subdivisions in the city. “They are in the middle of traffic and the middle of everything.”

But here in Samal, “you got a beach development here, a fivestar hotel, a shoreline to go with it and the breeze of the sea. Add to that the views of Mount Apo.”

Pile foresees their foray into Samal to eventually become a benchmark for the future of property development in the country.

SKYLINE view of Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City, with neighboring Makati City’s EMBO barangays in the foreground. MICHAEL EDWARDS DREAMSTIME.COM

LAUGHTER is becoming a rare commodity these days. Perhaps this is why local politics is turning into more and more of a joke. The general consensus on how to follow news is similar to people crowding together to watch a fire consume trash with morbid curiosity.

Cirebon case shows closing coal plants proves a hard sell for big global banks

By Eko Listiyorini, Norman Harsono & Faris Mokhtar

AMIDSIZED, 11-year-old coal power station in West Java is an unlikely bellwether for global climate finance.

Cirebon-1 helps keep the lights on and factories whirring in the port city it’s named after, a few hours’ drive east of Jakarta. Like much of the coal fleet that generates some 60% of Indonesia’s electricity, it’s young, built with the help of Korean and Japanese capital during the coal boom of the 2000s and 2010s. Now it is set to close early, sparing the planet millions of tons of carbon dioxide—and becoming a beacon for the energy transition.

If, that is, a credible deal can be struck between the plant’s current investors and Asian Development Bank, which is spearheading the program, plus others including large private-sector lenders like HSBC Holdings Plc. whose participation would make the deal a model for others to follow. Months of negotiation have demonstrated how hard it is in practice to persuade financial heavyweights to back the early retirement of coal—despite optimistic corporate pronouncements.

An acceptable, transparent agreement to close Cirebon would mark significant progress in the global effort to cut emissions and avoid the worst-case scenarios for climate change. A repeatable model for closing coal plants in the region is critical: if Asia’s coal plants continue to operate as planned, they will consume two-thirds of a fast-shrinking carbon budget.

Cirebon is just the beginning. This week, an investment plan is due for a $20 billion climate finance package, the Just Energy Transition Partnership or JETP, signed by Indonesian President Joko Widodo and US President Joe Biden in Bali in November. That entire project hinges on the ability of deals like this one to “crowd in”, or encourage, private capital. So far, few details have been made public. Meanwhile, the world is moving fast towards missing crucial goals. According to BloombergNEF, annual green investments need to nearly triple to nearly $7 trillion by 2030 in order to hit net-zero emissions by mid-century.

Over recent years, the highestprofile efforts have focused on stopping new coal power development. The more pressing conundrum now is how to phase out a vast existing fleet, especially in resource-rich, growing economies like Indonesia. Asia’s coal plants account for a third of the region’s total emissions, and they are young. In Indonesia, around 75% of coal plants were built after 2005. Without phaseout deals like the one being negotiated for Cirebon, they could keep burning coal for decades.

And there’s another catch. Even when agreement is possible, the process is painfully slow. If all goes to plan, Cirebon would close by 2037. That saves at least five years of emissions, assuming a 30-year official lifespan, and likely far more, given power plants often operate for decades beyond that. But that’s also 14 years and many millions of tons of carbon dioxide away.

There are many Cirebons to be worked through — in Indonesia alone nearly 90 plants were operating in August last year, including those owned by state utility PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara, independent producers and captive plants, which are owned by and serve industrial operations. More are in the pipeline.

“From a climate point of view, the ideal time frame would be tomorrow, or today if we could make it,” said David Elzinga, a senior energy specialist at the ADB who has been working on Cirebon. “But we have to consider that capital has been invested.”

The idea behind early phase-outs in general and the Cirebon deal in particular is simple enough. Closing coal plants early requires money, as investors need to be compensated for the loss of future earnings. That’s not a cost that emerging economies can—or want to —

shoulder alone.

“While we are in the midst of discussions on funding the energy transition and shutting down coal plants, the costs of doing so is high,” Erick Thohir, Indonesia’s minister of state-owned enterprises, said in an interview last week.

“At the end of the day, it’s how fast we want to do the transition. If the money comes today, transition will be faster. If the money comes later on, it will be slower. That’s a fact.”

The theory is that rich governments and multilateral lenders help by providing low-cost grants and loans, which are then blended with marketrate funds from large banks, lowering the overall financial burden. That either allows a coal asset to be refinanced, so investors can hit targets early and accept premature closure—as in the Cirebon case—or for it to be bought, and then wound down prematurely.

This is the same thinking that underpins the JETP, with which the Cirebon deal would overlap. Half of the money in that package will come from the Group of Seven countries plus Norway; the other half will come through large financial institutions like HSBC and Citigroup, under the Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero — institutions that have often made their own pledges to cut emissions.

But wealthy governments, multilateral lenders and big banks have to play along.

Best-case scenario, said Alice Carr, executive director for public policy at GFANZ, the big banks open up lines of profitable investments that align with their net-zero goals, countries get access to a new firehose of money to accelerate the coal phase-out and the worst climate-change disaster is averted. Everyone wins.

“We all know it’s hard to get it right,” said Carr, who is not involved in the Cirebon transaction, though GFANZ is a party to the JETP. “But we need to learn by doing, because there’s a lot of coal overhang we have to deal with.”

In much of the world, coal is an evershrinking portion of the energy mix. But existing examples of coal phase-outs, as in the United States and Germany, were made easier by plants’ age, market structures and philanthropic capital.

There have been other examples even in Asia, but without the complex, aspirational international structure on the table in West Java.

As a test case, Cirebon has plenty working in its favor. It’s privately owned, less exposed to the messy politics around state-owned assets. The ADB is engineering and supporting its refinancing and early retirement, as part of a wider Energy Transition Mechanism program, and has the financial clout required to carry the transition if others fail to materialize. The plant’s Japanese, Korean and Indonesian owners are on board. Importantly, even in a country where power demand is rising, its closure won’t leave a power shortfall—there is excess capacity on the Java-Bali grid.

A Cirebon deal won’t break the bank, either. Early closure here could cost up to $300 million, according to the ADB, a fraction of the $1.1 trillion invested globally in the low-carbon transition last year, according to BNEF, and of the trillions Indonesia itself needs to get to net zero emissions.

The first puzzle has been how to compensate Cirebon’s investors—a consortium that includes Japan’s Marubeni Corp., Korea’s ST International Corp., Korea Midland Power Co. and domestic outfit PT Indika Energy—for lost revenue, likely through a one-off dividend

intended to cover the present value of that cash. While some owners of the 660-megawatt supercritical plant will sell out, not all would have to. Investors confirmed they were in talks but declined to give details.

The bigger problem is how to ensure that the ADB money acts as a catalyst for much greater investment from global financial institutions.

There is underlying emerging market risk to contend with—banks demand higher returns for jurisdictions that are perceived to be economically or politically unpredictable, and that applies even to BBB-rated Indonesia. Investors still have a fiduciary duty to their shareholders.

“Indonesia is investment grade, so there are various financing solutions available,” says Colin Chen, head of ESG finance, Asia Pacific, for MUFG Bank. That comes with limits, he explained: Not everything will receive the funds required. “If we go down the normal pure commercial route, you can only capture the commercially bankable, financeable deals, and that leaves a lot of transactions to be addressed. This is what JETP and the related discussions would like to address, providing alternatives.”

Negotiators also have to grapple with institutional policies that bar financing of coal. Over the past few years, the number of banks willing to finance fossil fuel operations has dwindled under political and investor pressure. Investment in new coalmines has fallen — but so has appetite even for phase-outs. A few

are more nuanced, allowing for coal financing that facilitates an early retirement. GFANZ has floated guidance for financial institutions.

“Simply removing yourself from financing these coal plants is not going to stop them,” said Ravi Menon, head of the Monetary Authority of Singapore and chairman of the APAC Network Advisory Board for GFANZ, at a gathering in Singapore in June. “We are embracing coal to strangle it.”

For a deal that is intended as a model to be scrutinized and copied, it isn’t yet clear how much of the details of Cirebon can or will be made public, a hint of far larger issues around transparency, in part given non-disclosure agreements. Indonesian coal has also been especially intertwined with political and financial power, making accountability vital, but also explaining just why the dirtiest fossil fuel has been so hard to dislodge. Even the expansive JETP deal allows for captive coal.

“There is a lack of clarity around the specifics of these deals. There are deliberations going on behind the scenes, but this information is not public yet, creating a bit of information asymmetry,” said Aditya Lolla, Asia analyst at Ember.

Cirebon’s talks are the start of a long process, a proof-of-concept deal. The larger, newer plant operating next door—Cirebon-2—is a reminder of that.

“Unit-2 will extend what is supposed to be ending,” said Kris Herwandi, a 33-year-old son of sugar planta -

tion workers living in a village a few kilometers along from the plant, now studying for a masters degree. “Don’t just think about investors’ margins but about the fate of the surrounding community.”

Without private capital, though, these efforts can’t scale nationally, never mind internationally. And the Cirebon deal has been able to sidestep Indonesia’s rules on the sale of state assets, a headache particularly around utility PLN that the JETP will inevitably have to address.

If the JETP investment plan demonstrates progress and clarifies the contribution of private capital, it could put Indonesia at the forefront of climate finance. An earlier JETP has run into political turbulence in South Africa, where chronic power cuts have dampened enthusiasm for any kind of energy overhaul.

“There is momentum around blended finance and the early retirement of coal,” said Ember’s Lolla. “Incremental progress matters.”

(Michael R. Bloomberg , founder of  Bloomberg News parent Bloomberg LP, is co-chair of GFANZ. He committed $500 million to Beyond Carbon, a campaign aimed at closing the remaining coal-fired power plants in the US by 2030 and halting the development of new natural gas-fired plants. He also started a campaign to close a quarter of the world’s remaining coal plants and cancel all proposed coal plants by 2025.) With assistance from Clara Ferreira Marques, Harry Suhartono, Heesu Lee and Shoko Oda/Bloomberg.

But beyond this annual red-letter day, this peninsula is an exciting destination for culture, adventure, and nature, particularly for motorcycle riders who feel the sensation of the gushing wind as they zoom across the highways and by-ways.

With the four-lane rollercoaster like Roman Superhighway, Bataan is an ideal getaway because of its isolation from Luzon’s main arteries, which means having less competing for precious road.

Surrounded by mountains and seas for most parts, and punctuated by touristic spots, riding around the province is a visual treat.

One landmark you won’t miss is the First Line of Defense Monument, a larger-than-life tableau of the 38th Infantry Division which bore the brunt of the initial wave of Japanese attacks in 1941 and liberated the same area in 1945.

Sculpted by renowned artist Nemi Miranda, it is situated at the Layac Junction in Dinalupihan, which leads to the Subic Freeport and Zambales province.

For an insightful drive, swing by the Bataan Tourism Center in Balanga City, a one-stop information center which, a diorama minimuseum, audio-visual room for war documentaries and tourism videos, a pasalubong store, and a public park with promenade gardens, lagoons and ampitheater.

Within the city proper is the

Culture and adventure on two wheels

L. Supetran

Balanga Elementary School where Fil-American troops surrendered to the Japanese in 1942, and is depicted through life-size bronze tableau beside the World War II Museum. A few minutes away is The Bunker, the provincial capitol building which was renovated to bear war motifs.

Also around the neighborhood is the European-inspired Plaza Mayor and the Spanish-era Cathedral of St. Joseph across the street.

At sunset, the best place to be is at the City of Balanga Wetlands and Nature Park, a 34-hectare mangrove forest where you will be amazed by some 9,500 endemic and migratory birds winging their way across Manila Bay and the swamps.

An iconic must-see is the Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor) on top of Mt. Samat in Pilar, a memorial complex whose centerpiece is a 92-meter tall cross punctuated by relief sculptures of the late National Artist Napoleon Abueva and a museum of war memorabilia. The Shrine’s colonnade a breathtaking view of Corregidor Island just across the bay, which continued the fight even after Bataan fell.

The mountain war memorial is also as an adventure tourism and enterprise zone with the recreational facilities, forest trails, waterfall and natural pool, which riders will surely enjoy after a heady

history overload. Perhaps the most exciting adventure is Mariveles, situated at the province’s southern tip, which can be reached through the scenic zigzag which will give riders, drivers and bikers a heart-pounding cruise.

At the foothills of Mt. Mariveles is The Oriental Hotel Bataan, a chic lodging for business travelers, families, and staycationers tucked

in a lush tropical forest. An architectural masterpiece of the late National Artist Leandro Locsin, the two-level circular brutalist design hotel combines Old World charm, Asian touch, contemporary vibe and lots of greeneries, open spaces and a locally-grown vegetable garden where you can try out your green thumb.

To lure riders into the province,

it recently launched the Explore Bataan for motorcyclists with a tempting room rate promo of P3,888 for deluxe cellar and P4,888 for deluxe executive, and comes along with breakfast for two and 10 percent discount at the Cocoon Restaurant and Forest Grill.

It also has a circular pool and an Asian-themed spa where you can pamper yourself after a long ride.

For a consummate exploration, the hotel’s partner tour operator, Aura Mosca has ready-made itineraries which you can check out. They can also customize tours which combine a little bit of everything based on your personal preferences.

Just about a mile away Death March Km 0, a memorial plaza where some 70,000 Filipino and US

soldier prisoners of war were gathered by the Japanese for a grueling 100-km walk to their prison camp. A brief ride away is the Five Fingers Cove, an Instagrammable configuration of beaches which can be accessed at a local station of outrigger boats. Meanwhile, the adjacent Panoypoy village affords riders a soothing top view of the coves and the bay’s vast expanse. And if there seems to be a magnetic pull for beaches, the neighboring town of Morong has an infinity of powdery coastline dotted with resorts, beachfront facilities, and the sought-after sanctuary for sea turtles. Indeed, Bataan beckons two wheelers to ride into culture, adventure, nature and everything in between.

Story & photos by Bernard

Bataan is synonymous with the Second World War, as it witnessed the fiercest and bloodiest battles between the Japanese Imperial army and the combined Filipino and american forces. this province takes center stage every april 9 as the country commemorates araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) which immortalizes the uncommon valor of those defending the archipelago.

The Oriental Bataan lobby

Pan Oy P Oy viewdeck at Five Fingers Cove in Mariveles

RideR s and a World War ii historical reenactor at Mt. samat dambana ng Kagitingan

RideR s at The Oriental Bataan BaTaan Tourism Center in Balanga City

Educators: Graphic novels help in teaching math, physics

POST-PANDEMIC , some educators are trying to re-engage students with technology—like videos, computer gaming or artificial intelligence, just to name a few.

But integrating these approaches in the classroom can be an uphill battle. Teachers using these tools often struggle to retain students’ attention, competing with the latest social media phenomenon, and can feel limited by using short video clips to get concepts across.

Graphic novels—offering visual information married with text—provide a means to engage students without losing all of the rigor of textbooks.

As two educators in math and physics, we have found graphic novels to be effective at teaching students of all ability levels.

We’ve used graphic novels in our own classes, and we’ve also inspired and encouraged other teachers to use them. And we’re not alone: Other teachers are rejuvenating this analog medium with a high level of success.

In addition to covering a wide range of topics and audiences, graphic novels can explain tough topics without alienating student averse to STEM—science, technology, engineering and math.

Even for students who already like math and physics, graphic novels provide a way to dive into topics beyond what is possible in a time-constrained class.

In our book “Using Graphic Novels in the STEM Classroom,” we discuss the many reasons why graphic novels have a unique place in math and physics education.

Here are three of those reasons:

Explaining complex concepts with rigor, fun INCREASINGLY, schools are moving away from textbooks, even though studies show that students learn better using print rather than digital formats.

Graphic novels offer the best of both worlds: a hybrid between modern and traditional media.

This integration of text with images and diagrams is especially useful in STEM disciplines that require quantitative reading and data analysis skills, like math and physics.

For example, our collaborator Jason Ho, an assistant professor at Dordt University, uses “Max the Demon Vs Entropy of Doom” to teach his physics students about entropy.

This topic can be particularly difficult for students because it’s one of the first times when they can’t physically touch something in physics.

Instead, students have to rely on math and diagrams to fill in their knowledge.

Rather than stressing over equations, Ho’s students focus on understanding the subject more conceptually.

This approach helps build their intuition before diving into the algebra. They get a feeling for the fundamentals before they have to worry about equations.

After having taken Ho’s class, more than 85 percent of his students agreed that they would recommend using graphic novels in STEM classes, and 90 percent found this particular use of “Max the Demon” helpful for their learning.

When strategically used, graphic novels can create a dynamic, engaging teaching environment even with nuanced, quantitative topics.

Science, ecozone, SUCs leaders sign pact for creation of KIST parks, zones

Combating quantitative anxiety

STUDENTS learning math and physics today are surrounded by math anxiety and trauma, which often lead to their own negative associations with math.

A student’s perception of math can be influenced by the attitudes of the role models around them—whether it’s a parent who is “not a math person,” or a teacher with a high level of math anxiety.

Graphic novels can help make math more accessible not only for students themselves, but also for parents or students learning to be teachers.

In a geometry course one of us teaches, secondary education students don’t memorize formulas and fill out problem sheets.

Instead, students read “Who Killed Professor X?”, a murder mystery in which all of the suspects are famous mathematicians. The suspects’ alibis are justified through problems from geometry, algebra and pre-calculus.

While trying to understand the hidden geometry of suspect relationships, students often forget that they are doing math—focusing instead on poring over secret hints and notes needed to solve the mystery.

Although this is just one experience for these students, it can help change the narrative for students experiencing mathematical anxiety.

It boosts their confidence and shows them how math can be fun—a lesson they can then impart to the next generation of students.

Helping students learn and readers dream big

IN addition to being viewed favorably by students, graphic novels can enhance student learning by improving written communication skills, reading comprehension and critical literacy skills.

And even outside the classroom, graphic novels support long-term memory for those who have diagnoses like dyslexia.

Pause and think about your own experience—how do you learn about something new in science?

If you’re handed a textbook, it’s extremely unlikely that you’d read it cover to cover.

And although the Internet offers an enormous amount of math and physics content, it can be overwhelming to sift through hours and hours of videos to find the perfect one to get the “aha!” moment in learning.

Graphic novels provide a starting point for such a broad range of niche topics that it’s impossible for anyone to be experts in them all.

Want to learn about programming? Try the “Secret Coders” series.

Want to understand more about quantum physics? Dive into “Suspended in Language: Niels Bohr’s life, discoveries, and the century he shaped.”

Searching for more female role models in science? “Astronauts: Women on the Final Frontier” could be just what you’re looking for.

With all that they offer, graphic novels provide a compelling list of topics and narratives that can capture the attention of students today.

We believe that the right set of graphic novels can inspire the next generation of scientists as much as any single individual can.

Sarah Klanderman and Josha Ho, Marian University/The Conversation (CC) via AP

This was highlighted when the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), together with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and the Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the creation of KIST Parks and Ecozones.

The event was held during the 2023 PASUC annual convention in Pasay City on August 10.

The KIST Parks and Ecozones intend to promote skills development, and knowledge sharing between the government, academe and industry, for the commercialization of research and development (R&D), leading to the advancement of techno-entrepreneurship.

Science Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. emphasized the increasingly important role of science, technology and innovation (STI) as part of the cornerstones for modern society.

He said it forms the economic programs that can lead to a brighter and more sustainable future for our country.

He outlined the priority of DOST directions for 2023-2028 strategic pillars that adhere to the promotion of: human well-being; wealth creation or generation; wealth protection; and sustainability in which technologies will support the circular economy programs, environmental protection through further R&D.

“Through [the] partnership

with other government agencies, private organizations and the academe, the DOST will continue to create solutions that are relevant and innovative and will fill in the gaps [in] all sectors and communities to achieve inclusive development,” he said.

Undersecretary for Regional Operations Sancho A. Mabborang underscored the presence of KIST Parks and Ecozones that will build a stronger partnership between the DOST, PEZA and academe by increasing the growth of S&T-based firms, and the MOU will make it possible to further implement the program’s nationwide rollout.

As stated in the MOU, the DOST will provide technical assistance toward improving the STI solutions that will lead to higher productivity and better quality of life based on the DOST strategic pillars.

On the other hand, PEZA will promote the flow of investors, both foreign and local, into economic zones by putting them up strategically in as many provinces as possible.

The PASUC, through its Platform for Innovating SUCs for Industry 4.0 (PISI), aims to make the academe an innovation driver under the KIST framework of PEZA.

At the news conference, PEZA Director General Tereso O. Panga said: “The KIST in academe can attract investors that are in R&D and innovation, with that engagement

[the PEZA] can now mobilize with MSMEs [micro, small and medium enterprises] to be part of the value chain and commercialization of products that can create more jobs and livelihood.”

When asked what is the difference between a techno hub and KIST Park, Panga explained, “The techno hub is an IT Park variant, while the KIST [Park] is a result of the initial model of IT Park. The difference is that, in an IT Park, the activities are mostly IT enabled, these are your voice and non-voice. But in KIST we want it to be specifically hosted by universities, precisely because we want the investors to take advantage of the huge talent pool with the students, with the scientists and the laboratories.”

When asked if there’s a priority specialization or field in KIST Park, the science chief said, “It will depend or vary on SUCs’ expertise, as we all know there were also technology and incubation business hubs in the same university sometimes that would cater to MSMEs.”

In the academe, PASUC President Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo said, “The academe has a bigger role in the value chain as it will do R&D.”

“We see that our KIST is only a high value and low volume development or manufacturing. It is

not our mandate to mass produce. It is really on R&D and maybe we can have some prototyping on technology or product with higher value but we can produce in a low volume as a result of our research. After that, we can pass that on the side where they can do mass manufacturing,” Ronquillo pointed out.

Accordingly, the SUCs will benefit from the KIST through access to fiscal and nonfiscal incentives offered by PEZA as a Special Economic Zone, Promotion of Industry as Academe Collaboration through technology transfer of University Intellectual Property, and acceleration of products and services of startups and spinoffs to the foreign market.

To date, there are already 44 SUCs that have signified their interest to have a KIST Park. Batangas State University launched its KIST Park on July 20, 2020.

On August 3, the DOST signed with PEZA a joint memorandum circular for their partnership for the establishment of KIST Ecozones in the country. Solidum hopes to involve the local government units l to have a KIST Park, such as in Cauayan City, Isabela, that was established last March through the help of the Isabela State University. Mary Crystalline T. Araracap/S&T Media Service

PHL’s 6-year natl health research agenda unveiled

THE updated National Unified Health Research Agenda (NUHRA) for 2023 to 2028 was launched during the Philippine National Health Research System (PNHRS) Week celebration in Tacloban City on August 10.

Covering a six-year period, the NUHRA provides focus and direction to health research and development initiatives in the country.

In his speech, PNHRS lead coordinator Dr. Jaime C. Montoya emphasized how the agenda “is crucial in advancing health as it provides a clear direction for research and

development and guides better decisionmaking of health research generators, funders, and end-users.”

Spearheaded by the PNHRS Research Agenda Management Committee, the development of the updated document is born from 17 regional consultations, and involves inputs from a variety of research stakeholders.

According to Montoya, the consultations served as opportunities for research stakeholders to participate in government policy and decision-making.

“This also meant developing the new

agenda through the inputs of regional research stakeholders to ensure its relevance to their local context,” said Montoya, the director of the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Council for Health Research and Development.

From the consultations, a total of 170 health research priorities were identified and consolidated into themes and subthemes.

The main themes under the updated NUHRA are the following, which will guide health research efforts in the country from 2023 to 2028:

n Disease management

n Halal in health

n Health security, emergency and disaster risk management

n Health technology and innovation

n Health of vulnerable populations

n Health promotion

UHC

n Health systems strengthening toward

n Maternal, newborn, and child health

n Mental health

n Nutrition and food security; and

n Sexual and reproductive health. S&T

Laguna bamboo industry eyes boost via DOST-FPRDI project

BAMBOO growers, manufacturers, artisans and traders in Laguna can expect better days ahead as the Forest Products Research and Development Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-FPRDI) is working on a project that aims to strengthen the province’s bamboo industry.

With a budget of P2.1 million, the project has mapped out the industry and analyzed the constraints facing different bamboo stakeholders—from farmers and suppliers, to the market and endusers.

It has also studied the current status and prospects of each bamboo enterprise, and consequently identified firm-level

and industry-wide interventions based on their needs.

“Currently, there are 95 bamboo-based businesses in the province. This number alone suggests how much potential the province has in terms of developing its bamboo industry through the support of the local government unit [LGU] and other private and government organizations,” explained DOST-FPRDI Director Romulo T. Aggangan.

Recently, DOST-FPRDI initiated a forum attended by 28 bamboo enterprises and 70 LGU representatives from Laguna.

Institute Deputy Director Rico J. Cabangon presented the different bamboo technologies and technical assistance the DOST-FPRDI

could offer to the industry, while For. Venerando Garcia, Community Environment and Natural Resources officer, presented relevant rules and policies affecting the bamboo industry.

Emmanuel Lee Lapitan of the Department of Trade and Industry Laguna discussed various bamboo products that are in-demand locally and abroad, and the services that can be availed from DTI.

Meanwhile, Dr. Florentino O. Tesoro, former DOST-FPRDI director and current chairman of the Bamboo Professionals Inc., presented a proposal for the establishment of a Laguna Bamboo Industry Development Council, which will be reviewed by the provincial government.

Aside from DOST-FPRDI officials headed by Aggangan, Cabangon, Technical Services Division Chief Dr. Maria Cielito G. Siladan and Technology Innovation Division Chief Dr. Loreto A. Novicio, also present during the forum were Laguna Gov.Ramil L. Hernandez, DOST-Laguna’s Provincial Director Samuel L. Caperiña, and DOST-PCAARRD’s Rebeka A. Paller and Geoffrey Gacayan, among others.

The project is being led by Drs. Ma. Cecile B. Zamora and Carl Anthony O. Lantican. It is funded by the DOST-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development. Apple Jean C. Martin- de Leon/S&T Media

THE establishment of Knowledge, Innovation, Science and Technology (KIST) Parks and Ecozones in state universities and colleges (SUCs) that will help communities develop may soon be a reality.

Science Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. (second from left, seated) together with DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Sancho A. Mabborang, PASUC President Tirso A. Ronquillo and PEZA Director General Tereso Panga show the documents during the signing ceremony for the establishment of KIST parks and ecozones in SUCs with representatives from DOST, PASUC and PEZA as witnesses. DOST PHOTO

Saint Lorenzo Ruiz statue finds ‘home’ at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in New York

By Patrick V. Miguel

Our Lady of Antipolo image enshrined at Limasawa shrine

AREPLICA statue of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, or Our Lady of Antipolo, made its way to the site of the first recorded Easter Mass in the Philippines.

“In 1987 we were given a first Filipino Saint so it’s something that Filipinos would be rejoicing in and be proud of,” said Fr. Erno Bolibar Diaz, a retired priest from the Archdiocese of New York.

Diaz is known for his dedication to Saint Lorenzo Ruiz, authoring his accounts on the life of the saint and its significance to the Catholic faith in his book “On the road with San Lorenzo,” published by UST Publishing House in 2005.

Diaz wrote in the book: “I knew deep in my being that it would be just a matter of time and San Lorenzo Ruiz would have a church for ‘home.’”

And just like that, the Filipino priest’s prayers came true.

Saint Lorenzo Ruiz is set to mark another “first” in history— his permanent enshrinement at Saint Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City.

Finding a home

IN an interview, Diaz attributed significant gratitude to two people: Cardinal Jaime Sin and the late Filipino businessman Antonio L. Cabangon-Chua.

“It is Antonio Cabangon-Chua, the [former] ambassador, who really thought of donating the statue of San Lorenzo Ruiz,” Diaz said.

“Understand that the ambassador has a very strong devotion to San Lorenzo Ruiz,” he added.

Then, the ambassador gave the statue to Cardinal Sin, who later on had it sent to the United States.

Cabangon-Chua was the founder of ALC Group of Companies that

includes the BusinessMirror

The history of finding home for Saint Lorenzo Ruiz’s statue was detailed in Diaz’s book.

In Chapter 14, the priest recounted driving around New York to personally search a home for the three-foot bronze statue.

Retelling the experience, he wrote, “Then, there were moments when I was confronted with the realization that I could be stranded on the way or experience a car breakdown.”

Eventually, he countered, “But through it all, I knew that the Lord, through San Lorenzo, would guide me and protect me in every step.”

As of this writing, the statue is temporarily at the Church of the Epiphany in New York.

‘It’s about time!’

“YOU cannot just display any statue at [St. Patrick’s] Cathedral unless it meets [its] artistic standard,” Diaz shared.

Nonetheless, they earned the courage to take a picture of the statue and sent it to the cathedral, with the hopes that the statue would now find its home.

According to Diaz, a priest from Saint Patrick’s Cathedral said, “That’s perfect!” upon seeing the statue.

And that was the moment when, after all those years of hard work and faith, the statue of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz would have a permanent home.

“I think it’s a place of honor for us, Filipinos, and for us, Catholics,” Diaz reflected. “That

statue was selected by the cathedral because they thought it was perfect for [it].”

On October 25, a “big Mass” will be held at the Saint Patrick’s Cathedral with about 300 Filipino priests to commemorate the permanent enthronement of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz.

With nothing but excitement, Diaz told the BusinessMirror :

“It’s about time!” He added partly in Flipino, “It’s about time that Filipino Catholics be recognized in America.”

“I’m very very excited! It’s not easy to have a statue enthroned there [US]. But the fact that it [Saint Lorenzo Ruiz’s statue] will be enthroned there is really going to be very exciting,” he pointed out.

The image was first welcomed by Bishop Prescioso Cantillas at the Maasin Cathedral on August 6 before it was brought and enthroned at the Magallanes Shrine in Limasawa Island on August 8.

The enthronement took place during Mass presided over by Fr. Reynante Tolentino, rector of the Antipolo Cathedral, or the International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage.

“Since this image of the Blessed Virgin also came to our country, she has strengthened our faith, hope and love,” said Fr. Francis Edward Baasis of the Antipolo Diocesan Commission on Social Communications in his homily.

“And now that she is already here also reminds us to imitate her

in serving her Son and the Church in our country,” he said. After reading the certificate of donation, the shrine’s parish priest, Fr. Reynaldo Alonzo Jr., explained the relevance of the Virgin’s image on the island. Oftentimes, according to him, they have to cross to the mainland even amid big waves.

“The image and presence of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage is very relevant to us because it reminds us that our Mother, the Blessed Mary, is our guide, always our guide for a safe trip toward the mainland,” Alonzo said.

In November 2022, a replica of Antipolo’s patroness was enshrined at the Church of the Assumption in Connecticut’s Westport community.

In October 2021, another replica was also enthroned at the Basilica di Santo Stefano Maggiore in Milan, Italy.

Joseph Ryan Moscoso/CBCP News

Faithful warned vs churches imitating Catholic practices

THE Archdiocese of Manila warned the faithful against participating in the services of certain churches that are “not in full communion” with the Catholic Church.

“The sacraments that they administer are therefore invalid and illicit,” the archdiocese said in Circular 2023–64 signed by Chancellor Fr. Isidro Marinay,  issued on August 16.

The circular specifically referred to the Brazilian Catholic Apostolic Church and other groups such as the Old Roman Catholic Church.

The circular said that the practices and vestments of these churches are identical with those

of the Catholic Church, potentially misleading the faithful.

“Because of some misleading information and the practices, vestments, and other activities apparently identical to the Roman Catholic Church, some members of our faithful have participated in their services and their ministers have been invited to chapels and gatherings,” the circular said.

The archdiocese called on the clergy to convey the warning to their parishioners regarding the mentioned groups.

“We request our priests to inform our faithful for proper guidance regarding the matter,” it added. CBCP News and PNA

In Maui, families, faith leaders cling to hope, tackle reality of loss

KAPALUA, Hawaii—For scores of families in Hawaii still hoping to reunite with loved ones, it was not yet time to give up—even as the staggering death toll continued to grow, and even as authorities predicted that more remains would be found within the ashes left behind by a wildfire that gutted the once-bustling town of Lahaina.

But many others are already confronting a painful reality. Their loved ones did not make it out alive.

At a Sunday Mass at a church in Kapalua, the Most Rev. Clarence “Larry” Silva, the Roman Catholic Bishop of Honolulu, appealed to somber parishioners not to abandon their faith.

“If we are angry with God we should tell him so. He can take it,” he said in his sermon, adding later that “God loves us in tragedies and good times and bad times.”

Taufa Samisoni sat in the pews with his wife, mournful over the loss of an aunt, uncle, a cousin and grandnephew.

They tried to flee but did not get far, engulfed in an inferno while in their car just outside their home.

His wife, Katalina, in a quivering voice, spoke about the faith that allowed the Apostle Peter to walk on water. Like Peter, she said, “we will get to shore.”

Thus far, the remains of more than 90

people have been pulled from flattened homes, blackened cars or on streets just a few strides from their front doors—unable to outrun the smoke and flames that were just too fast and too ferocious.

On Saturday, Gov. Josh Green told residents to brace for more grim news.

Crews and cadaver-sniffing dogs will certainly find more of the missing within the destruction, he said. He predicted the tragedy could rank as Hawaii’s deadliest natural disaster ever.

It was an ominous signal of the anguish to come in the months ahead. Mourners will file into houses of worship, then somberly gather at gravesites to say final goodbyes.

The scenes will be repeated over and over—though how many times no one yet knows.

Maui officials declined to respond to phone calls, text messages and emails requesting information about how and where the county are sheltering the recovered remains. Nor did they answer questions about whether the county has the facilities and resources to handle the rising number of fatalities.

With just one hospital and three mortuaries, it remains unclear where all those corpses will be temporarily stored and how soon they will be released to family.

“Funerals are not yet on the horizon,”

were destroyed.

Pope

Locally, amid the gloom, faith leaders were focused on providing community and spiritual hope for congregants who lost homes and livelihoods. Some vowed to hold services on Sunday.

“We’re hoping our church can be a beacon of hope when the time comes,” the Rev. Barry Campbell said from Kihei, where his family has stayed since escaping Lahaina.

He plans to hold services as soon as it’s possible at Lahaina Baptist Church, which remained standing, even if buildings around it were razed down to their slabs.

“That’s the thing our people really need,” Campbell said. “To be together.”

For now, many faith leaders are mounting relief efforts, including turning houses of worship into temporary shelters.

They are also delivering supplies to those in need, and doing their best to help families connect with friends and relatives across an area with intermittent power and without reliable cellphone services.

The Church of Latter-day Saints in Maui said five of its members died in the fires, including four from the same family.

In the fire’s aftermath, the church has transformed two meeting houses into shelters.

The Rev. Jay Haynes, the pastor at Kahului Baptist Church, said recovery will take many years.

“Our people just need to keep going,” he said.

The Chabad of Maui—which was under evacuation orders—was spared and is now sheltering evacuees, said Rabbi Mendy Krasnjansky. As the fire raged, some of the faithful stood ready to move the temple’s holy scrolls to safer grounds.

“We don’t know why things happen, but we believe we have the strength to soldier on,” he said.

That was the case for Zac Wasserman, who has been frantic about finding his uncle, David Hawley. Now in his 70s, his uncle uses a wheelchair after a stroke left him mostly immobile more than a year ago.

“We just don’t know where he is, which is definitely scary,” said Wasserman, who lives in Southern California.

Even before the fires, he wasn’t always good about keeping in touch. Maybe it was just another one of those cases.

Phone call after phone call from Wasserman, his siblings and cousins have gone unanswered.

“I still have hope,” he said, “unless somebody tells me otherwise.”

Then after sharing his anguish, his family tried once more.This time there was an answer. Their uncle was alive. Bobby

Caina Calvan, Giovanna Dell’orto And Audrey Mcavoy/Associated Press

THE sainthood of Saint Lorenzo Ruiz in 1987 was not only a historical breakthrough in Catholic history. It was likewise a significant mark in the Philippine Catholic landscape, being the first Filipino saint.

THE statue of San Lorenzo Ruiz—a replica of the original donated by the late businessmanphilanthropist Antonio L. Cabangon Chua—greets visitors at the lobby of the Dominga Building, named after the mother of the late ambassador to Laos, located at the corner of Chino Roces and Dela Rosa Streets in Makati City. The original statue donated by “ALC,” as he is fondly called, will be permanently enthroned at Saint Patrick's Cathedral in New York City in October. EMM ALQUINTO

Silva told The Associated Press. “Even in the best of times, Hawaii has the custom on having funerals anywhere from a month to six months after the death.”

Amid Lahaina’s devastation, the Maria Lanakila Catholic Church itself suffered smoke damage but its convent and school

Francis acknowledged the tragedy during his Sunday address to people gathered at the Vatican’s St. Peter’s Square, saying that he “desires to assure my prayers for the victims of the fires that devastated the island of Maui.”

MOST Rev. Clarence “Larry” Silva, the Bishop of Honolulu, greets parishioners after Mass at Sacred Hearts Mission Church in Kapalua, Hawaii, on August 13. Sacred Hearts Mission Church hosted congregants from Maria Lanakila Catholic Church in Lahaina, including several people who lost family members in fires that burned most of the Maui town days earlier. AP/HAVEN DALEY

Asean Champions of Biodiversity

Media Category 2014

Biodiversity Sunday

Editor: Lyn Resurreccion

Natl Hero Jose Rizal as father of PHL’s biodiversity?

By Jonathan L. Mayuga

‘IS it time to declare [National Hero] Jose Rizal as the ‘Father of Philippine Biodiversity?’”

The question was a proposition made by broadcast journalist Howie Severino during his talk at the Asean Biodiversity Heroes Forum in Malate, Manila, last August 12.

An award-winning broadcast journalist and documentary filmmaker, Severino, who considers himself a Rizal historian, has come up with several documentaries about the national hero that were aired over GMA television.

Severino talked about the national hero and his passion for the natural environment—the forest and the diversity of trees, plants, and animals, as well as the bounty of the ocean, including fish, seashells and other species.

Associating biodiversity with Rizal, he said young storytellers can make biodiversity a more interesting topic for their respective audiences, by associating it with history, heritage, and heroism.

Severino said: “You constantly have to experiment, to be resourceful and creative in your storytelling because you have too much competition.”

It is important to humanize the stories, to stir public interest in biodiversity, he added.

Learning forum

ORGANIZED by the Asean Centre for Biodiversity (ACB) as part of the celebration of the 56th anniversary of Asean Day and International Youth Day, the event dubbed, “Asean Biodiversity Heroes Forum,” aimed to encourage young communicators and storytellers to be an agent of change for biodiversity.

It adopted the battlecry and the hashtags: “I write for biodiversity,” “I speak for biodiversity” and “I create for biodiversity.”

The interactive learning forum gathered development communication students from select state universities in Luzon and Mindanao and several storytellers from Asean neighbors with some ACB’s Asean

Biodiversity Heroes to learn about biodiversity advocacy, experiences, challenges, frustrations, perseverance and the success that made the heroes in biodiversity protection and conservation.

Among the topics discussed during the forum were the interconnectivity of life, development communication, basic biodiversity reporting and storytelling.

Severino’s documentary, titled “Rizal and the Creatures of Dapitan,” originally aired on November 18, 2018, showcased Rizal and his passion for Dapitan’s rich biodiversity.

Rizal: the achiever

WHILE in exile in Dapitan, Zamboanga del Norte, where Rizal spent his last four years before his martyrdom in Bagumbayan, now known as Rizal Park, the national hero made many projects that matter to the people of Dapitan—such as building a dam and irrigation system, a school and eventually, discovering new species.

In Rizal’s school, which can be considered the first progressive school in the Philippines, he imparted to his young students his progressive ideas on topics, including agriculture, politics, governance, and even religion.

His schoolyard and laboratory were the forest.

Medicine man, artist

AS a physician and a teacher in Dapitan, Rizal explored the application of medicinal plants to treat his patients.

He also learned from the locals, while sharing his own knowledge, about the medicinal value of native trees and plants found around the forest of Dapitan.

His school and laboratory, according to Severino, was an 18-hectare land, which he acquired after winning a lottery.

While teaching about plants and animals, Rizal would walk around the forested area with his students and identify the species.

“Rizal collected hundreds of specimens of flowers, shells, insects and

Tañon Strait dolphins declining, in peril

RESEARCHERS from the University of the Philippines Diliman-College of Science are warning that unchecked ecotourism and overfishing are threatening the cetacean biodiversity of the famous and richly diverse Tañon Strait, the UPD-CS Science Communications unit said.

A narrow passage of water between Cebu and Negros islands, Tañon Strait is renowned worldwide for its rich marine life. It is home to numerous cetaceans, including 15 species of dolphins and whales.

However, recent findings suggest that the populations of these marine creatures are on a fast decline.

“We encountered only between 80 and 90 individual spinner dolphins throughout our four-day survey. This is in stark contrast to surveys in previous years, where we might spot as many as 100 individuals in just one day,” said Dr. Lemnuel Aragones, head of the UPD-CS Marine Mammal Research and Conservation Laboratory (MMRCL).

Tañon Strait, designated as a protected seascape in 1998 under Presidential Proclamation 1234, has been a sanctuary for a diverse array of marine species.

A popular destination for ecotourism, particularly dolphin and whale watching, the

strait has attracted numerous visitors eager to witness these remarkable animals in their natural habitat.

Aragones spearheaded the survey from July 20 to 23, focusing on dolphin populations within the southern part of Tañon Strait, the UPD-CS said.

The initiative revealed deeply concerning trends, such as a decrease in dolphin numbers, a reduction in species diversity, and evasive behavior possibly linked to increasing human activity in the area.

In the past, these surveys witnessed vibrant gatherings of diverse species of cetaceans—including numerous kinds of dolphins and species of whales, with groups of as many as 100 individuals spotted in a single day.

However, the recent survey was starkly different, showcasing only three species: spinner dolphins, common bottlenose dolphins, and dwarf sperm whales.

Of particular concern was the notably evasive behavior of the dolphins, a possible sign of stress or disturbance due to the persistent presence of aggressive dolphin watching boats, UPD-CS explained.

Aragones and his team, who have been monitoring the region since 1997, noted a

reptiles and sent them to Europe to know more about them,” he said.

By sending to foreign botanists the specimens that he preserved, he, in turn, received books and continued his education.

Most of the time, Rizal would sketch the species he discovered or found, and describe them with accuracy.

Passionate researcher

RIZAL , a visual artist, poet, journalist, and novelist, was a passionate researcher, who, during his time, was able to discover new species that were unknown to science then.

Some of the animal species, Severino pointed out, were named after Rizal by his colleagues who learned about his new discoveries between

significant increase in the number of dolphin watching boats, even notwithstanding the destruction caused by Super Typhoon Odette (international code name Rai) in 2021.

The area now hosts around 60 boats, down from the original 260. Nevertheless, Aragones fears that this may still be too much.

Too many dolphin watching boats in the area disrupts the cetaceans’ habits,” he said.

Aragones also warned against the overutilization of the area’s resources.

“There should also be a comprehensive assessment of fisheries resources in the entire strait as there is clearly less food now for these creatures,” he explained.

To preserve the delicate ecosystem and to safeguard the remarkable marine mammals in Tañon Strait, the scientists have proposed several measures, the UPD-CS added.

First, they recommend a moratorium on adding more boats to the already existing fleet. Second, a comprehensive assessment of fisheries resources including fishing activities in Tañon Strait, as a decline in food availability may be exacerbating the dolphins’ struggles.

Furthermore, strict monitoring and regulation of illegal unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing practices in the area are necessary.

The marine expert emphasized the importance of educating boat operators on responsible dolphin watching protocols.

A certification process that trains operators to navigate around dolphins without causing stress could play a pivotal role in protecting these charismatic animals.

Research also suggests that previous ecotourism activities negatively impacted dolphin behavior, reinforcing the need for responsible and sustainable tourism practices.

The findings from this survey underscore the critical situation facing dolphins in Tañon Strait. Urgent action is imperative to ensure the survival of these magnificent creatures and to maintain the delicate balance of the marine ecosystem they inhabit, UPD-CS pointed out.

urging them to emulate the national hero in their pursuit of science and in communicating the importance of protecting and conserving the species and their habitats for human survival.

A naturalist, a Filipino SEVERINO said Rizal may even be the first Filipino botanist, or naturalist, who discovered new animal species and had the honor of having the species named after him.

“Europe is where he studied and developed his political ideas. But Dapitan is where he applied much of his learnings, as a doctor, as a teacher and even as an engineer, an ecologist and naturalist,” he said.

“There were a lot of foreigners who came to the Philippines to study the Philippine environment, ecology and nature. But it is hard to think of anyone before Rizal who studied and love nature the way he did,” he said.

More importantly, he said Rizal articulated in the way he lived and not just what he wrote his vision for the Filipino—enlightened, progressive, civic-minded, a believer in freedom and human rights, a lover of nature— “which I think we can take to heart and emulate until today,” Severino said.

Biodiversity hero

July 17, 1892, to July 31, 1896.

A flying dragon was named Draco rizali; a rare kind of beetle, Apogania rizali; and a frog, Rhacophorus rizali.

German museum exhibit

SEN. Loren Legarda, in her keynote address during the opening of the forum, said that specimens of the new species discovered through Rizal are being exhibited at a museum in Germany.

An advocate of biodiversity protection and conservation, Legarda vowed to work with concerned institutions in Germany, and through a loan, to have the specimens brought to the Philippines and be showcased at the National Museum of Natural History, in recognition of Rizal’s work.

In her speech, Legarda said there’s a bit of Rizal in every young Filipino,

THE journalist said the national hero indeed did many things, and that the underappreciated aspect of Rizal is that no Filipino before him had the kind of interest he had in nature and the environment, particularly Dapitan.

“While there are modern scientists who may lay claim to be the father of Philippine biodiversity, the fact remains that Rizal was the first to have new species named after him,” he pointed out.

“By recognizing Rizal’s contribution to biodiversity, we achieve a number of things. By associating biodiversity with Jose Rizal, we elevate biodiversity by making it more central to the identity of and the founding vision of the Philippines,” he said.

“We elevate biodiversity from being

a fringe interest or being second fiddle in terms of global concerns to climate change,” he added.

According to Severino, while climate change is a big problem and will rearrange civilization, the loss of biodiversity, another mass extinction, can actually lead to the extinction of the human species.

“To me, it is more an existential threat, even more than climate change,” he said.

He added that by portraying Rizal as the father of biodiversity, the country will complete his memory and honor his contributions in the last four years of his life.

It should be noted that Rizal is also recognized through his statues in some European countries.

Severino said he wished that Rizal be recognized as a naturalist—or as the father of Philippine biodiversity— in the same breath that he is loved as a martyr, a hero, a poet, an artist and a novelist.

Significant contributions

FOR her part, ACB dxecutive director Theresa Mundita S. Lim said Rizal has made significant contributions through his works in Dapitan to biodiversity conservation, long before the word “biodiversity” was even invented.

“He was ahead of his time in protecting nature and the environment. However, data on his works, such as the specimens he collected, are still fragmented and are scattered across various references and sources,” Lim said.

She explained: “There’s a need to compile all information and undertake additional research, and consultations among Rizal historians and biodiversity experts to ensure that there are no other candidates, and to establish a solid and unquestionable basis to officially bestow the title of ‘Father of Biodiversity’ on Gat Jose Rizal.”

Finally, Lim said: “The ACB stands ready to support processes to move this forward.”

SNORKEL WITH MANTA RAYS Manta rays show up to tourists snorkelling off the coast of Kona, Hawaii. They are beautiful creatures and p ose no harm to humans. They constantly move and their lifespan is assumed to be at least 45 years although less is known about their growth and development. They are one of the largest fishes in the ocean. Kona is among the few places in the world where one can see a manta ray up close in the wild. I’m just glad I did this. STEPHANIE TUMAMPOS

THE photos are screengrab from ACB Facebook Live Stream of the slides of broadcast journalist Howie Severino during his talk about National Hero Jose Rizal and biodiversity. JONATHAN L. MAYUGA

Athletes with fear of flying find ways of defeating stress above 35,000 feet

SAN FRANCISCO—San Francisco

Giants star Joc Pederson is scared to fly. Outfielder Seth Brown of the Oakland Athletics, too.

They are hardly the only ones. Longtime manager Dusty Baker would bet that anxiety in the air has shortened more than a few careers. He recalls watching terrified teammates and coaches cling tightly to photos of their loved ones during bumpy flights.

There’s no helping them,” Baker said. “A lot of times they have a couple drinks more than they should on the plane. I’ve had guys I played with, they had like four or five kids, and the plane was having turbulence and they would start kissing their kids, like they were kissing them goodbye, like it was the last time they would see their kids.”

I n big-time sports, there’s no getting around regular flying. Major League Baseball (MLB) players might crisscross the country several times in a single week. National Basketball Association (NBA) and National Hockey League (NHL) teams frequently play on consecutive nights in different cities and time zones.

Even 300-plus-pound football players have to be comfortable traveling from one coast to another. And then there are sports like golf and tennis, with professional tour events spanning several continents.

Hall of Fame football coach

John Madden, who died in late 2021, is among the most famous for his trepidation with air travel.

Debilitating claustrophobia prompted him to eventually begin taking his own bus around the country.

Netherlands soccer player

Dennis Bergkamp was nicknamed “The Non-Flying Dutchman” for his anxiety, which he said stemmed from traveling on smaller planes while with Inter Milan in the 1990s.

Former NBA power forward

Royce White, a first-round pick by the Houston Rockets in 2012 out of Iowa State, fought crippling anxiety that became far worse when he flew and led to panic attacks—so he too regularly drove on his own whenever possible.

Even Barry Bonds, who hit a record 762 home runs, told The Associated Press he has a fear of heights.

We’re pointing to flying but what we’re really pointing at is the feelings of being out of control, the feelings that come with trusting, so it’s the fear that we’re pointing to,” said high performance psychologist Michael Gervais, who has worked with the Seattle Seahawks among other sports teams, Olympians and businesses.

Athletes find different ways of dealing with the stress at 35,000 feet.

Baker and Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker remember how teammates turned to alcohol to ease the nerves.

For many years with flying, players had to “get used to it,” insists Hall of Fame baseball star Rickey Henderson, who recalled what he described as crazy flights when he would try to “close my eyes and go to sleep.”

“ I was in the minor leagues for a period of time and I rode buses for 14 hours,” Henderson said, “I definitely don’t want to do that.”

Even with heightened awareness around mental health, there is a greater prevalence of anxiety in society now than people might realize, according to Gervais. He is proud of those who speak up and take on the challenge to cope with it, a part of how they strive to reach peak performance in their sport—and appreciates teams being proactive rather than reactive.

“ What’s great is that there is an attunement and there’s an awareness, more than there has been in the last 15 to 20 years about the importance

CLEANING UP KENYA’S DOPING PROBLEM

that while other countries focus their drug testing on their top contenders, which might be five athletes in each of a few events, Kenya has hundreds of distance runners capable of winning, from a marathon all the way down to an 800-meter track race.

Th at’s incredibly difficult to control, Clothier said, and though the doping culture was bred in road running, it undoubtedly took hold in track runners, too.

W hile laying out some of the reasons behind it, Clothier is far from apologizing for Kenya’s doping.

He said also clearly to blame were Kenya’s own anti-doping guardrails, which were flimsy at the best of times, and non-existent for much of the time before the start of a turnaround in the last 12 months.

K enya only established a national anti-doping agency in 2016, an eye opener considering it has been the dominant force in distance running for decades and has won the secondmost medals across the board in the history of the worlds behind the United States.

B efore this year, Kenya had committed $2.5 million a year to anti-doping, Clothier said, not nearly enough. There were only 38 athletes in Kenya’s national doping testing pool last year, a miniscule amount. There will be 300 this year, Clothier said.

Apart from the international track body and the AIU’s attempts to prop up its testing program, Kenya was “a completely uncontrolled environment, quite frankly,” Clothier said.

IN all likelihood, Kenya will haul in another good chunk of medals in distance races at this month’s track and field world championships, each one of them throwing more suspicion on a country with a reputational crisis because of doping.

Kenya has achieved unparalleled success in modern distance running, but a wave of positive drug tests over the last decade has made it the sport’s latest doping pariah and pushed it to the brink of a sweeping international ban that would put it alongside Russia.

A nti-doping authorities inside and outside the East African nation are grappling to get it under control.

We’re trying to clean up our country,” said Faith Kipyegon, the Kenyan middle-distance runner

who broke three world records this year, has never failed a doping test, but was asked at a recent news conference—like many of her compatriots often are—to account for the more than 180 doping sanctions handed out to Kenyans since 2017.

The root of Kenya’s problem is unique in the global athletics ecosystem, according to the man whose job it is to fix it. It’s very different to the state-sponsored scheme that led to Russia being thrown out of international track.

I n Kenya, there’s “a temptation to dope that’s like no other part of our sport, not even close,” said Brett Clothier, the head of the Athletics Integrity Unit, the independent body set up in 2017 to oversee international track and field’s anti-

doping operations and which has been kept very busy by Kenya.

The first point Clothier made in an interview with The Associated Press ahead of the world championships in Budapest, Hungary, starting this weekend is that you need to understand Kenya to understand the doping crisis that’s unraveled in Kenya.

The vast majority of the hundreds of distance runners pouring out of Kenya’s high-altitude training grounds are not running for gold medals at the world championships and the Olympics or for national pride. They are competing for pay checks first, running to get away from poverty.

B ecause of that, Kenya’s doping problem didn’t start on the track, Clothier said, but in road running; the marathons and the 5K and 10K

races around the world— the grinding edge of distance running away from the major track meets but which is the most lucrative part of athletics and where there›s good money on offer almost every week to attract Kenya’s bountiful talent.

This money that we’re talking about...is life-changing,” Clothier said. “Not just for them, but for their families, their whole communities. In essence, it really is all about the money.”

W hile that doesn’t justify it, it shows why doping to get ahead is maybe more of a temptation in Kenya than in the United States or Europe.

Clothier said Kenyan athletes, because of their economic need, “take risks that no one, no other athletes who are controlled by us, would normally take.”

The athlete numbers also mean

The issue reached a head last November, when an outright ban for the country was on the table before the Kenyan government committed another $5 million a year for the next five years to fight doping, and publicly accepted the problem was endemic and not, as it said for years, the work of a few rogue foreign coaches and agents.

The AIU is only now at the start of a five-year plan to save Kenyan athletics, but the elite athletes are being brought under tighter control for a start. Clothier said the Kenya team at the worlds will be “absolutely one of the most comprehensively tested teams.”

A s the program then looks to also reign in those vast numbers of runners who compete on the road, Clothier said it will be “a long ride” with even more failed tests, and more athletes banned.

We’re certainly expecting more positive tests. I’ll tell you that straight away,” Clothier said. “But that’s the system working.” AP

Bowie’s mental health struggles no secret in track’s tight-knit family

BUDAPEST, Hungary— Olympic gold medalist Tori Bowie’s autopsy included an easy-to-overlook, one-line notation beneath the heading “Medical History:” Bipolar disorder.

I n and around track circles, where the champion sprinter’s absence is hitting particularly hard heading into Saturday’s opening in Hungary of the first world championships since her death, Bowie’s mental health struggles were more than an afterthought.

They were a stark reality that came to light during training over the years. They also revealed themselves in the Florida neighborhood where police found her body days after the 32-year-old, who was eight months pregnant, died at home due to what the coroner said were complications of childbirth.

“It’s not that she slipped through the cracks,” her one-time coach, Al Joyner, told The Associated Press last month. “I think people didn’t take it seriously enough.”

extreme mood swings, can be

treatable with medication and counseling. However, the National Institute of Mental Health cites studies that say that of the some 4.4 percent of US adults who experience the disorder, 82.9 percent encounter “serious impairment.”

Though Bowie had access to mentalhealth services through both the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee and USA Track and Field, officials at both organizations said she did not avail herself of those in the months and weeks before her April 23 death.

The officials said they believe Bowie’s mental health played a role in how she handled what became an increasingly difficult pregnancy, one she dealt with without much assistance from friends, family or medical professionals. They spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the confidential information.

T he AP spoke with Joyner as well as six other USA track and Olympic officials or team members who knew Bowie over her decadeplus as a prize-winning sprinter, then during her retirement. AP also reviewed autopsy and police records, including a 911 call from a family acquaintance who had been asked to check on Bowie at her house after no one heard from her in days.

“Last time I spoke to this girl, it was over three weeks ago. I saw her here at her home and she was living without power,” said the acquaintance, whose name is redacted from the 911 recording. “I reported to her family that I was concerned about her mental health.”

There were other red flags.

Neighbors saw Bowie sleeping on the floor at a local recreation center

and another time, sleeping on a bench with groceries near her feet at a park near her house. The neighbors spoke on condition of anonymity to reveal the disturbing details of Bowie’s case.

O ne of the neighbors called the US Olympic committee with their concerns and the committee notified USA Track and Field. Track officials reached out to Bowie’s agent, Kimberly Holland, but Holland said Bowie was not in need of help.

Holland told the AP this month that Bowie had access to health care. “I didn’t have any red flags,” she told The Washington Post in June, adding that Bowie was insistent on not delivering her baby in a hospital.

Police went to Bowie’s house on May 2 after receiving several calls, including the 911 call from the acquaintance, who told the dispatcher she didn’t feel safe entering because of the smell emanating from the residence.

E arlier this month, a lawsuit was filed seeking foreclosure on Bowie’s Winter Garden, Florida, house, saying she had been delinquent on payments since October 1, 2022, nearly seven months before her death.

W hen the autopsy came out, it indicated there were no signs of foul play or drug use. Bowie’s bipolar disorder didn’t make many headlines, nor did another detail—her weight: 96 pounds, even at eight months pregnant. In her heyday, the 5-foot9 sprinter was a wall of muscle and weighed 130.

More was made of what the coroner listed as complications related to childbirth: among them, eclampsia, which results in seizures that can lead to coma and stems from high blood pressure during

pregnancy.

A ccording to the US Centers for Disease Control, Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related issues than white women. Bowie was the third woman on the 2016 US Olympic gold-medal relay team who suffered complications in childbirth. All three were Black. But while Allyson Felix and Tianna Tashelle delivered in a hospital, Bowie died alone.

The news of her death hit hard around track-and-field circles.

“ There’s just a very heavy sadness that I think everybody feels, like, ‘Wow, this could have been preventable.’ Or, ‘I didn’t get to tell Tori how I felt,’” said retired decathlete Trey Hardee, who has struggled with mental health issues of his own. Placed in a foster home as a baby, Bowie was taken in and raised by her grandmother—a formative episode that Joyner said shaped her life.

It seemed like she was always out to prove something,” Joyner said. “And then when she did prove something, it was never good enough.... That’s a dangerous thing. Everybody’s been taught the same way: ‘If I do this, it’s going to be easy street.’

But then when you do all those things and it’s not happening, it makes you

stop believing in fairy tales.”

Yet, in many ways, Bowie’s career was a fairy tale.

Fast on her feet and able to jump high, Bowie gravitated to basketball as a kid growing up in Sand Hill, Mississippi. Urged to give track a try, she and everyone around her quickly found out just how good she was. She went to Southern Miss, where she won the NCAA long jump title in 2011.

A few years later, she was among the top sprinters in the world. She won silver in the 100 and bronze in the 200 at the 2016 Rio Games, then capped off the Olympics by teaming with Felix and Co. for the relay gold. AP

ALTHOUGH Olympic gold medalist Tori Bowie had access to mentalhealth services she didn’t avail herself of those in the months and weeks before her April 23 death. AP

TRACK and field’s anti-doping head says that Kenya’s crisis is unique and driven by poverty. AP

5 easy ways to meet new friends, mentors as a freshman

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STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

The rise and rise of Al James

By Reine Juvierre S. Alberto

WHEN Filipino rapper and songwriter Al James was tapped by the world’s largest fast-food chain restaurant to remix his song “Pahinga” for a summer dessert advertisement, he said it was unexpected and overwhelming.

“Nung una nga inisip ‘ko kung tatanggapin ‘ko ba ‘to (At first, I thought if I should accept it),” Al told SoundStrip in a recent interview. Since he was still an underground artist at that time and has only released that song on Soundcloud, he thought that being in the mainstream was part of his evolution as an artist.

So, he accepted the fast-food gig, and due to requests from his fans, he later released his songs on music streaming platforms such as Spotify and YouTube.

Eventually, “it gained a lot of traction,” and that was the start of his rise to fame as a “rockstar” in the local hip-hop scene. It certainly doesn’t hurt that he is also physically gifted with a towering, imposing frame which pretty much reinforces his image.

A different take

SHARING his songwriting process, Al said he wrote “Atin-Atin Lang ” while waiting in line to get his first Covid-19 vaccine shot. During his 4-hour wait, he was able to finish writing the verses of the song before even getting his jab.

Before getting vaccinated, he had a plan to try to write there to kill some time. Since then, the song is just stored on his phone’s notes as he still couldn’t record in a studio because of the lockdown.

Al admitted that the lockdown affected his songwriting process, and there was a period when he went through writer’s block. During this time, he found it hard to get inspiration to create and write a song, so he just focused on his family and his health.

can also sing affectionate songs),” he added.

Apart from Flow G, Al James has also collaborated with other artists, such as Zack Tabudlo and Lola Amour, artists that are not necessarily of the same genre.

He also said that when he listens to the songs produced through collabs, “parang ibang Al James (it’s like a different Al James).”

Al said collaborations also allow him to explore and transcend other genres, dissolve barriers, expand his followers and stay relevant.

“Hindi na sarado yung tenga nila sa isang genre,” he said, as the fans of Lola Amour and Ben&Ben sang along during his sets in multiartist music festivals, even as there are those who thank him for the inspiration.

“Magkaibang mundo talaga pero nakakatuwa kasi nagiging bridge yung music sa ibang genre, kaya kapag may music fest, makikita mo yung unity ng mga tao (It’s really a different world but it’s good to see music becoming a bridge to other genres that’s why in music fests, you’ll see the unity among the people),” he said.

Growing anticipation

WEEKS prior to the release of “Atin-Atin Lang,” the song’s demo version was already leaked online and created a buzz after it was said to be circulated on TikTok by an unidentified person.

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Comeback of the year

WITH a handful yet successful songs on his sleeves, such as “Pa-Umaga,” “PSG,” and “Ngayong Gabi,” every time Al releases a new song, it’s celebrated as the “comeback of the year” by the local hip-hop community.

The numbers don’t lie. Al’s phenomenal success is very evident in his impressive 431 million lifetime YouTube views, 380 million alltime streams on Spotify, and 3.9 million social media followers to date.

As if those numbers aren’t enough, Al understands that there’s also strength in joining forces with other successful artists. His latest release, “Atin-Atin Lang ” is in fact, a collaboration with Flow G.

The song is about having quality time with your special someone, Al revealed. When you’re both happy and creating beautiful memories together, you forget the need to share it with other people, specifically on social media, where it feels mandatory to share every moment in one’s life, he added.

“Pang atin-atin lang. I-cherish natin yung time natin, walang distractions (It’s just for us. We should cherish our time together, no distractions),” AJ enthused in explaining the song’s message.

Veering a little from his usual sound, which he describes as “pang-gabi,” in “Atin-Atin Lang,” the sound is lighter and “malambing (affectionate),” but retains his trademark deep bass tone, sense of intimacy, and slow yet strong energy to give balance.

Sharing a glimpse of an artist’s world, he said there’s a lot pressure from fans to the point that even his personal life is affected. Such distractions can cause an artist to think too much and lose focus on his craft.

Whenever he’s pressured by his fans to release songs, he takes it on a positive note. For him, it’s like a wake-up call from all the distractions and pressure, “Parang may nagpapaalala na ‘Hoy! May nag-aabang pa sa’yo’ (It’s like a reminder that ‘Hey! Someone is still anticipating for you’),” he said.

Instead, Al challenges himself to veer away from the usual things he’s comfortable with to give something different to his audience. “Dito sa song na ‘to nabalik yung spark sa pagsulat kasi siguro yun din yung kailangan ‘ko, yung magveer away muna ako sa dark na theme (This song ignited the spark to write again because maybe it’s what I needed, to veer away from dark themes),” he said.

On collaboration

HE also thought of collaborating with other artists, this time from the hip-hop scene, and Flow G was the first person who came to his mind.

“Narinig ‘ko siya while listening to the blank verse. Naisip ‘ko na parang si Flow G yung bagay dito ah (I heard him while listening to the blank verse. I thought Flow G would be fit for this.),” he said.

“Bukod sa naririnig natin ngayon na Flow G na maangas, kaya rin niya yung malalambing na songs (Apart from the proud Flow G we hear today, he

At first, Al James found it “frustrating” as the song loses its “surprise factor.”

“Ang tagal mong niluto at minarinate mo talaga tapos out of nowhere lumabas na lang bigla (You cooked it for so long and marinated it, then out of nowhere, it leaked),” he said.

But when it went viral on the Internet, it built anticipation among the listeners, which he said was helpful.

When SoundStrip asked him when he would release an album, he said that new music before the year ends is on the way. He is also planning to collaborate with international artists to bridge the Filipino culture globally starting with the Filipino-Canadian R&B duo Manila Grey.

As one of the biggest names in Pinoy hiphop, whenever people would still label the genre as “jejemon,” Al James said some still “degrade” the genre, but for him, it had already lapsed.

While he admitted that people with different tastes in music cannot be converted to listen to a specific genre, Al observes that many have accepted Filipino hip-hop music, with some in the higher classes even requesting it to be played in high-end clubs.

In terms of production, he said younger artists and producers are getting better at weaving the Filipino culture and experience even in music with obvious Western influences.

While Filipino hip-hop music has remarkably evolved through the years, Al James foresees it now has a better chance of crossing over on a global scale. Hopefully, he will be happy to be counted as among those who paved the way.

HEALTHY BOUNDARIES

Aussie artist BIRDEE 王煒 on music that connects with people

By John Eiron R. Francisco

RISING Aussie artist BIRDEE 王煒 recently visited the Philippines as part of her “On My Own” tour in Southeast Asia - Manila, Jakarta and Singapore, and recently launched her new single ‘Best Mistake I Never Made’ on a different digital music app via Disruptive Entertainment.

Birdee Sideris (BIRDEE) channels and merges her Chinese, Greek, and Russian origins to create her own names, sound and stories. Birdee’s artist name, in particular, is a direct celebration of her English and Chinese given names.

The Chinese symbol in her name is basically translated as Wang Wei, which means “to take pride in my culture and who I am as a person.”

Adding that she also experienced a lot with racism growing up as being a mixed cultured person, so as an artist, she wanted to take that into just being proud of who she is.

As she flies from Sydney, where she spends her time as a dedicated and emerging artist and an Aged Care Worker, she’s ready to spread her wings

and connect her voice to the Filipinos. As she described her newest single as a story that can resonate and gives inspiration to her listeners.

“I just want to create music that connects with people, helps people, resonates with people, and makes them feel like they are understood and that they’re not alone,” BIRDEE told SoundStrip in an online media roundtable.

According to the alt-pop singersongwriter, her newest electro-pop track is primarily about the past relationship she had with a man who sought a second chance but whom she ultimately refused to give one. She clearly describes that at that time of her life, she needed to choose herself and set up good internal boundaries.

“You can call it a diss track, but to me, it’s being selfishly confident in having healthy boundaries. We tend to focus on the mistakes we have made, but we never reflect on the mistakes we narrowly avoided,” BIRDEE explained.

The song begins with a dreamy

and ambient soundscape, with BIRDEE in reflective mode, considering what has come before:

“Should’ve had everything, it would’ve been all mine, could’ve, but we didn’t try; you were the best mistake I never made.”

The chorus suddenly slams in with an electronic immediacy, forceful synths, and thundering kick drums, creating a euphoric sense of a great escape.

She believes that the style and genre of her most recent song are extremely different from those of her previous singles.

Whereas most of her songs are more of alternative indie pop and electronic pop, “I would say it’s a lot different in the sense that it sounds very crunchy with the instrumentation, but also very clean and modern with the vocals that are in it.”

In terms of the songwriting, the courses are more short and sweet as compared to her other music which feels very metaphorical, figurative and with a lot of seemingly underlying messages in it.

In the music industry, each artist has

their own unique identity and is known for, including their style, music and look. In her case, BIRDEE just wants to spread love, goodness and connection to all kinds of people, regardless of gender, sex and race, in order “to bring people together as one.”

BIRDEE expressed her thought about when people come and see her, she wanted “to feel inspired and to feel like they can chase whatever dreams and goals they have in their life,” as she gradually built her name in the industry.

The only takeaway that she believes people can grasp from her songs is “to just enjoy life through the ups and downs, the good and the bad.”

When asked if she has future plans of collaborating with a Filipino artist, BIRDEE says that she’s very much open to the idea. “I would like to work with a lot of Filipino artists here,” she declared Sideris has already been invited for a couple of media interviews and stage performances in the country as part of the ‘On My Own’ tour, which she previously performed last August 9 in Arcana Lounge and Usok Bar and Grill; August 11 in Venice Grand Canal Mall; and August 12 in Lucky Chinatown Mall.

5 easy ways to meet new friends, mentors as a freshman

By Leo M. Lambert, Isis Artze-Bega, Oscar Miranda tapia, and Peter Felten

Research for decades has shown that the relationships students cultivate in college—with professors, staff and fellow students—are key to success. Simply put, human connections matter for learning and well-being in college. They also set students up for professional and personal fulfillment after they graduate.

College students confirmed the importance of connections when we interviewed more than 250 students at three dozen colleges and universities throughout the US for our new book, Connections Are Everything: A College Student’s Guide to Relationship-Rich Education. The book is free to read online.

Although no two had the same story to tell, what they told was surprisingly similar—and reinforced the research on the power of relationships. What can college students do to harness this power to support their academic success and personal well-being? Here are five steps recommended by students and scholars:

Talk to a professor. The quality and frequency of student-faculty interactions play a major role in learning. Approaching a faculty member can feel intimidating. Still, it can be done in simple ways.

Introduce yourself before or after class. Visit during your professor’s inperson or online office hours, which is time set aside for students to meet with their instructor.

José Robles, a nursing student at Nevada State College, told us about being surprised at the connections he built with a professor in a required science course that he thought would be “as boring as rocks.” This professor’s teaching inspired him to love geology—and to get excited about learning in general. Jose’s experience is not unusual. A national poll of college graduates found that 60 percent met their most influential faculty mentor in college during their first year.

2Make a friend in class. Firstyear students often feel alone in big introductory courses and in online classes, but those can be opportunities to connect with students who will help you succeed. In fact, research shows that students who study together tend to do better academically than students who study alone. They also tend to be less stressed by their classes.

Chloe Inskeep, a first-generation student at the University of Iowa, told us about her strategy for making connections even when classes had almost as many students as the population of her hometown: “Lots of students go to class

and then they leave or log out as soon as it ends. For me, just staying after a little bit to chat with other people really helps me find people who I have something in common with.”

3Use the resources that are there for you. Colleges have many programs and offices to support student learning, development and well-being. These range from writing and tutoring programs to student organizations, counseling centers, and resource hubs for students who identify as LGBTQ+, first-generation, students of color, or who have a disability.

Mirella Cisneros Perez met both welcoming peers and a critical mentor, Dean Sylvia Munoz, after a friend introduced her to the Latinx Student Union at Elon University.

“Whenever I would run into them, I knew they believed in me and wanted me to succeed,” Mirella told us. “The connections my peers guided me to helped me find my place at Elon and changed my whole experience in college for the positive.”

4Participate in a “relationship accelerator.” It is the term we use to describe campus experiences that help students integrate classroom learning with real-world experiences in powerful ways. These experiences include internships, undergraduate research, writing-intensive seminars, study abroad, and even campus employment.

For example, your campus job supervisor can help you learn valuable new skills and can challenge you to integrate your paid work with your academic learning.

Peta Gaye Dixon, a student at LaGuardia Community College in New York City, told us that her campus job supervisor “sees stuff in me that I don’t see in myself.”

5Connect with yourself. New students often experience a bit of imposter syndrome—feeling like you might not be as smart or qualified as other students. That’s completely normal, and it’s also something that can be overcome. First, don’t lose sight of who you are and the many strengths you bring with you to college.

If a bump in the road has you feeling anxious—like if you don’t do as well as you hoped on that first quiz—talk to a professor, tutor or friend. We met Joshua Rodriguez, a student at Oakton Community College near Chicago who considered dropping his Calculus 2 class until his professor advised him to read up on imposter syndrome instead of doing the homework one night.

That opened Joshua’s eyes: “That interaction bolstered my confidence to realize that I’m not alone in this, that everyone has these feelings,” he said. “I went from contemplating dropping out to getting tutoring help—and then getting an ‘A’ in the course.”

Joshua ultimately earned a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering from Purdue University.

Trusting yourself—and challenging yourself—is vital to your success in school and in life. We promise that if you pursue meaningful relationships, you’ll be setting yourself up well to thrive in college. The Conversation

Ten Monteverde’s journey to filmmaking

By Dinna Chan Vasquez

KIRSTEN MONTEVERDE studied journalism and painting at Parsons School of Design in New York because she wanted to tell stories. But at the end of her freshman year, she fell in love with film language after seeing more movies in New York.

The 22-year-old found inspiration in the works of Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki, French director Agnes Varda, writer-director Celine Sciamma, English filmmaker Edgar Wright and the Coen Brothers (Joel and Ethan). She enjoys Varda’s style of creating a bridge between realism and fiction, along with female-driven narratives.

Things just made more sense to Ten, as she is called, which is why she decided to transfer to New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts to study filmmaking.

The first person she told about her lifechanging decision was her dad Dondon Monteverde, Reality MM Studios producer. She also informed her grandmother, Regal Entertainment, Inc. matriarch Mother Lily Monteverde.

“From the very beginning, it was solidified

for me that I would always end up as a creative but I didn’t necessarily think I wanted to do films. I wanted to become a painter,” said Ten, who graduated Magna Cum Laude from NYU for her filmmaking and television course.

Ten’s dad and grandmother were supportive of her decision, just as they were of her desire to study abroad. Understandably, there was attachment on her father’s part as Ten is the youngest of three siblings and the only girl.

“There was joy that I found something that I like to do and that it was something related to film,” she said. “I told my grandma about it and she was very, very happy. She wants me making films in the Philippines but she’s also happy about me exploring what I want to do.”

To tell more stories

T EN loves film because it’s collaborative.

“I realized I could tell more stories with a moving camera. It’s definitely a plus that my family has already exposed me to that world from a very young age. The earliest stages of my life—going to premiere nights and being in a room with directors and actors—really equipped

me for when I decided I was going to go to film school.”

Ten’s first assignment after graduating was directing the music video of singer-actor JK Labajo’ and Zild for the song “Gabi.” She describes it as a great experience with Labajo giving her a lot of creative freedom.

“I wrote and directed it and, you know, no questions asked. I just went with the flow and he loved it,” Ten said. “I couldn’t have asked for a better experience post-college like, this was an amazing experience. It’s really an amazing first directing gig for me.”

As Ten figures out life outside school, she

is taking her time in figuring out the path she wants to take.

“I’m floating,” she said. “I’m just navigating post-college life where it’s a crazy mix of emotions and I’m figuring out what I want to do. There are many stories that I want to write and people I want to work with in the Philippines.”

‘Fun and really crazy’

T EN wants to make her own mark in the industry but is open to working with the familyowned Regal Films and Reality Films. “I’m going to collab with my dad and my grandmother. I would pitch to both and see if they like it and if both of them like it, then they could collab.”

Ten describes her filmmaking style as “fun and really crazy, quirky, rambunctious, and outlandish.” She would love to do short films, feature films, and even commercials. Her goal is to be working both in the US and the Philippines.

“I’m very visually-oriented, so every thought, every transition, has to be planned out,” she said. “When I was in college, I was very deep into production design work. I was working in the art department. I think that influenced how I became a director.”

WhAt’s the best advice you can give to a new college student? Connections are everything.

Cover photo by Armin Rimoldi on Pexels

Ten MonTeveRde graduates Magna Cum Laude from new York University’s Tisch School of the Arts