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VOL. 111 NO. 1 NOVEMBER 2021
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NURSES ASSEMBLE! CHED grants limited face-to-face classes for CPU nursing studs BY DANICA MAE HABLADO
CPU College of Nursing has started limited faceto-face classes on November 8, Monday, after having complied with the requirements of the Commission on Higher Education and the Department of Health’s Joint Memorandum Circular No 2021-001. After almost two years of distant learning, CHED Region 6 announced that 11 Western Visayas-based Higher Education Institutions have been allowed to resume limited in-person classes. Being one of the 11 universities, CPU was authorized to reopen campus to resume limited in-person classes for the BS Nursing program. Education supervisor Dr. Arnold Anceno said that medical-related courses—nursing, medical technology, physical therapy, medicine, midwifery, public health, and dentistry—are only some of the degree programs that were permitted to reopen. Following the classification of Iloilo City under Alert Level 2 for the rest of November, CPU began conducting an in-campus Related Learning Experience (RLE) for level 4 nursing students. To ensure the safety of everyone, clinical instructors and students were encouraged to remain in a “bubble” or to reside inside the campus for the duration of the three- day duty. Students were also required to present a negative RT-PCR swab test result before entering the campus. In addition, food is provided by the university and distributed individually to maintain social distancing. The level 4 students began their in-person Related Learning Experience at the virtual lab simulation room, followed by experiences in the operating room and at Kabalaka Birthing Center. Lucina, a childbirth simulator, and Apollo, an adult patient simulator, were used to promote a perceived lived experience for investigation using a virtual learning environment. This semester’s limited face-to-face classes are planned to extend until December, when all of level 4’s sections will then have their turn.
CPU- COLLEGE OF NURSING LEARNING IN THE NEW NORMAL. Nursing students in action during their practical in labour delivery as Face-to-face classess started last November 15, 2021.
CPU, Kabilang sa 2022 QS Asian University Ranking BY LEANDRO SALDAJENO
Kabilang muli ang Central Philippine University sa isa sa pinakamahusay na Higher Education Institution (HEI) ayon sa resulta ng 2022 Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Asia University Ranking kasama ang 15 na unibersidad galing sa Pilipinas.
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THE CENTRAL ECHO
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CPU Medicine donation drive reaches P300k BY KAILA MARIE CAJUSTIN
“Our front liners have always been present, working their hardest to help people everyday, and it is unfortunate that share this news of Dr. Christie Bucayan’s current health status.” Central Philippine University (CPU) Medicine Student Council initiates the launch of donation drive through a facebook post for Dr. Christie Bucayan, a second-year IM resident of SPH and an alumna of CPU as she fight against COVID-19 last October 8. Dr. Bucayan was said to be admitted last October 2 at St. Paul’s Hospital after she experienced severe fever and back pains. “Indi mabal-an kung sa diin niya nakuha pero kay isa siya ka-2nd year medical resident trainee kag gaduty siya sa ER kag COVID ward. Bisan nakalevel 4 PPE may risgo gihapon,” shared by one of Dr. Bucayan’s family when
CPU launches virtual Korean Classes with KUMA BY CHRISTIAN JAKE RUIZ
asked on how she possibly acquired the said virus. Hours after its launching, the post garnered hundreds of reactions and shares coming from Dr. Bucayan’s families, friends, alumni and students of CPU who showed their support to the said initiative. “We are very thankful and blessed to be surrounded by people who did not hesitate to lend a hand in times if need. A big thank you as well to those (who) made engagements by liking and sharing the post,” says in a facebook post by CPU-Medicine Student Council as they gathered a total of P180,922.93 financial donation on its first day.
After the two-day donation drive, the CPU-Medicine Student Council announced on their facebook post that they have gathered a total of P373,568.49 financial donation. “Thank you gid sa tanan nga nagbulig pray para kay Cristie, kag sa tanan nga nagdonate bisan ano pa na nga amount. Dako-dako gid ina nga bulig. Na-overcome niya ni tanan tungod sa inyo. Praying still for full recovery,” Dr. Bucayan’s family added as she thank those sent their support, prayers and donations. As of the moment, Dr. Bucayan’s condition is stable but is still undergoing pulmonary and physical rehab.
In partnership with Korea University of Media and Arts (KUMA), Central Philippine University opened virtual Korean classes administered by the first King Sejong Institute in Western Visayas. KSI is a foundation funded by the South Korean government assigned to manage the delivery of the
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HELPING HAND Karla Bucayan HOLDING ON. Karla Bucayan shares Dr. Christie Bucayan’s journey in her Facebook post as she battles against COVID-19.
CPU Agriculturists achieve 100% passing rate
35. 30%
BY CHRISTIAN JAKE RUIZ
National average of passers
Central Philippine University welcomed its 12 passers of the November 2021 Agriculturist Licensure Examination, posted on November 18, 2021 by the Professional Regulation Commission. Of the 1,172 passers out of 3,927 takers, the results of successful examinees included all 12 firsttime takers from the College of Agriculture, Resources, and Environmental Sciences. Accordingly, CPU was able to achieve a 100% passing percentage compared to the national average of 35.30%.
Korean Language Program in the Philippines. For this year, KUMA, in collaboration with 25 universities worldwide, has chosen CPU to help Filipinos who are interested in the Korean language and culture through lessons brought by the program. The program is currently run
The licensure exam was conducted in the time of the pandemic at PRC testing centers located in Metro Manila, Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Koronadal, Legaspi, Lucena, Pagadian, Pampanga, Rosales, Tacloban, Tuguegarao, and Zamboanga on November 9 to 11, 2021.
under the supervision of the office of the International Relations and Cooperation and will continue for three years after the test operation that started in July 2021 until the end of the succeeding year. Classes and regular schedules for three courses provided by the program have officially started on October 27, 2021.. Each
course offers a specific area of specialization, such as reading and writing basic grammar and practical Korean expressions. The fee for each course starts from Php 3,000 for at least 45 hrs with each class that meets 6 hours each week. They also offer free classes for those who are interested in the culture.
45 HOURS
Will be alloted for each class having 6 hours each week
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SEANTIMENTS
CPU takes part in 2021 Virtual English Language Table
Kathleen Frugalidad BEYOND BORDERS. Students of Central Philippine University represent Philippines in the 2nd Virtual Language Table hosted by the Northern Illinois University along with other South East Asian instituitions.
BY PIERRE JHUN SAN PEDRO
THE CENTRAL ECHO
The second Virtual English Language Table kicked off last November 15, 2021, with participating students from the United States of America, together with some of the Southeast Asian countries. In collaboration with Central Philippine University, Northern Illinois University (NIU) conducted the Virtual English Language Table for the second time, having invited students from both universities, as well as students hailing from the home countries of Southeast Asian Fulbright scholars, namely Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Philippines. To foster growth and learning through the exchange of unique knowledge, culture, and lived experiences amidst the pandemic, 10 participating student leaders from CPU’s CPU Republic, along with another 10 student journalists from The Central Echo joined hand-in-hand to represent the university, as well as the country in the said exchange. “The recently concluded language table was an opportunity for students to practice intercultural
communication, and also, hopefully, allowed them to have a deeper understanding of diversity while appreciating more the culture of the Philippines,” stated Kay Arden Gallo, a Fulbright foreign language teaching assistant at Northern Illinois University and one of the event’s organizers, in an interview. The said event first took place last year, 2020, in order to allow the students to continue expanding their knowledge about the happenings from all over the world, as well as to encourage cultural sharing among the participants, despite the quarantine restrictions due to the current global pandemic. According to Gallo, in order to join the celebration of the International Education Week which took place last November 15 – 18, the organizers of the aforementioned event decided to host the Virtual English Language Table for its
second year, via the global video conference platform, Zoom. During the event, the participants exchanged diverse cultural views and stories to help raise the cultural awareness of one another, as well as to know about the university life of the participating students, especially regarding their own experiences in learning amidst the pandemic. “It is truly an honor to be a part of the event. I have learned and acquired countless knowledge from the different views of the participants who did not hesitate to voice out their experiences, as well as their thoughts regarding various topics. Truly, I got to widen my horizons, and I am beyond thankful that I was able to view the world from the perspective of different people across the globe,” said Ryan Dave Poral, a student organizer as well as a participant of the event.
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Iloilo City starts vaccination on minors BY DAREN KERN ECULLADA
Iloilo City has started COVID-19 vaccination for minors last October 29, 2021.
Iloilo Provincial Health Office JAB WELL DONE. One of the target 27,000 minors to be vaccinated in Iloilo City as the city of love aims to fully vaccinate Ilonggos within the upcoming months.
Dr. Roland Jay Fortuna, the city government’s COVID-19 focal person, stated that roughly 25,000 minors have signed up for the COVID-19 inoculation in a virtual press conference. Although Iloilo City was not included in the pilot areas for vaccination of minors, Mayor Treñas has been asking the DOH to include the city. The mayor had been sending out letters in the past months, asking the national government to kickstart the vaccination for minors. “It is of high importance that we arm and protect eligible children and minors such as myself from acquiring the virus through approved covid vaccines, since not only will it help us fight the harsher effects of the virus, but it will also help ensure the safety of the family, especially when we have family
members who could not get vaccinated,” said Pierre Jhun San Pedro, 17 years old. While multiple studies have proved that the younger population has a stronger immunity against COVID-19, protection in the form of vaccination is still necessary. “As we continue to move forward and heal from the effects of the pandemic, ensuring that everyone is protected from the virus is integral in creating a society that is immune from the disease, I really encourage everyone that is eligible to get vaccinated. This is because the sooner we can achieve herd immunity, the sooner we could go back to how life was pre-pandemic.” San Pedro added. As of November 21, the city government has vaccinated 32,063 minors, or 64.13 percent of its target 50,000 mark in November.
Zuckerberg introduces Meta, Facebook’s Major Rebrand BY KAILA MARIE CAJUSTIN
CEO of Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg introduced Meta which brings together apps and technologies under one new company brand and reflects the company’s growing ambitions beyond the social media world last October 8 during the Connect 2021.
Zuckerberg added that Facebook will change its corporate name to Meta effectively dismissing Facebook’s brand and style of service to being just one of the company’s subsidiaries, alongside Instagram and WhatsApp, rather than underlying brand. “The metaverse will feel like a hybrid of today’s online social experiences, sometimes expanded into three dimensions or projected into the physical world. It will let you share immersive experiences with other people even when you can’t be together - and do things together you couldn’t do in the physical world. It’s the next evolution in a long line of social technologies, and it’s ushering in a new chapter for our company,” said Zuckerberg as he share this vision in his founder’s letter. “I’ve been thinking a lot about our identity as we begin this next chapter. Facebook is one of the most used products in the history of the world. It is an iconic social media brand, but increasingly it just doesn’t encompass everything that we do,” Zuckerberg added. As someone who loves to study classics in school, Zuckerberg said that the name was inspired by the Greek word meta, which means “beyond”, as it symbolizes that there is always more to build. The 37 year old CEO, teased the audience with a series of new social, gaming, workplace concepts for the metaverse during the kick off of his announcement. Following the announcement of renaming their company, a new blue infinity sign was proposed in exchange of its common featured photo “thumbs up.” “I know that some people will
say that this isn’t a time to focus on the future, and I want to acknowledge that there are important issues to work on in the present. There always will be,” Zuckerberg stated in his kickoff video. The announcement was aired during its eighth annual Connect event through a facebook live where their latest innovations and research in augmented and virtual reality and more of their vision through metaverse were revealed. The major rebranding comes after the social media company has been bombarded with news reports over the past month after whistleblower France Haugen leaked hundreds of internal documents that contain deep insight into the company’s internal culture, its approach to misinformation and hate speech moderation, and internal research on its newsfeed algorithm. Zuckerberg released a statement on how Messenger calling is coming to VR, their plans of operating a virtual marketplace where developers and businesses can sell virtual goods and a new home screen in Oculus Quest to make chatting and games in the virtual world more social. With Zuckerberg as the leading promoter of the concept, Facebook plans to hire 10,000 people in Europe to build the “metaverse” concept. There were no changes made in the board of directors during the rebrand except that Zuckerberg’s data was changed to CEO of Meta from CEO of Facebook. Facebook also shared their plans of starting the trade under the stock ticker “MVRS” on December 1.
Tech Crunch NEW UNIVERSE. Mark Zuckerberg introduceMeta as the new name for the parent company, Facebook which aims to launch an “internet universe” called Metaverse.
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Readers, Rebel?
THE CENTRAL ECHO
opinion
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EDITORIAL
Libraries are a staple of every educational institution. A school without a library feels incomplete. One would even go as far as to argue that a school without a library is akin to a man without memory. Libraries are powerful, serving both as archives and hubs of information. It fosters the use of critical thinking and contains an abundance of diverse information that can quench an academic’s thirst for knowledge. But what will happen to libraries if the information it contains goes through censorship? Will a library still be able to retain its purpose or will it be reduced to a mere shell of its former self? On October 21, CHED Cordillera Director Demetrio Anduyan Jr. issued Regional Memorandum No. 113 encouraging higher education institutions (HEIs) to remove “subversive materials” in their library and online platforms. The memorandum described subversive materials as “literatures, references, publications, resources and items that contain pervasive ideologies of the communist-terrorist groups.” According to the memorandum, “It is our moral consciousness not to allow our youth to be engrained with peacedetrimental ideologies that could turn them as subversive and become communist-terrorist.” Following this memo, Kalinga State University, Isabela State University, and Aklan State University removed books deemed “mentally harmful” as well as books published by the National Democratic Front of the Philippines from their libraries in an attempt to prevent “communist infiltration.” Books regarding peace negotiations between the Philippine government and National Democratic Front to the military were surrendered to the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) and Regional Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (RTFELCAC). Meanwhile, the University of Antique stated that its library doesn’t contain any “subversive books” when it was probed by the Army’s 301 Infantry Brigade and RTF6-ELCAC. Both the memo and the action by these universities sparked outrage amongst students, academics, and rights advocates. Book Development Association of the Philippines (BDAP) condemned the banning of “subversive” books and literature, citing that removing books containing sensitive
or challenging subject matters is “not only a clear violation of freedom in publishing, and freedom of thought, but also discourages critical thinking and empathy for one’s environment.” The University of the Philippines System’s library council made a call to all libraries in the country to defend their institutions from any form of attempts at censorship and to resist any actions that will compromise academic freedom. Meanwhile, Makabayan Bloc asked Committees on Human Rights, and Higher and Technical Education in the lower house to launch a probe. This attempt at censorship is comparable to the book-burning incidents during the Nazi regime as a means to preserve Hitler’s ideology. The banning of books has been used by dictators in the past as means of exercising control over how people think and manipulate public opinion. We must also never forget that Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo— two of the most iconic literary works in Philippine history— were deemed subversive by Spanish colonizers and anyone who was caught in possession of these books were either sent to prison or killed. These books played a very important role in our history for they awakened nationalistic sentiments and kick-started a revolution. When dictator Ferdinand Marcos declared martial law, his first order was the closure of all newspapers, magazines, radio, and television, along with the suppression of organizations within academic institutions and removal of academic literature on freedom of speech. Books are gateways to another world in the form of words. Some books challenge the perception of everything while others
Books are gateways to another world in the form of words. Some books challenge the perception of everything while others can inspire a whole generation.
can inspire a whole generation. The word subversive means “something that is trying to destroy or overthrow something like a government or an idea”. Reading “subversive” material does not necessarily make a person a communist-terrorist contrary to what CHED-Cordillera is implying. Just like how reading the Bible does not necessarily make a person holy, reading the “Communist Manifesto” does not necessarily make one a communist. There are reasons why subversive books were allowed in libraries and that is to present two contrasting stands to allow the reader to come to his or her own conclusion. Historically speaking, banning books have always been harmful especially for young readers as it blocks off an entire world of thought. Censorship prejudges materials and robs the capacity of individuals to critically assess the contents of literature. Censorship is the child of fear and father of ignorance while knowledge is the light bulb of the mind. Libraries should not be censored, doing so denies the right to academic freedom. If books are being banned today, who knows how things will escalate in the future.
A History Rewritten by Tyrants
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ALOUD BY KJETIL JOSTH ACIELO
Cemented across buildings in Germany are small, square, bronze plaques. Engraved in these “Stolpersteine”, or stumbling blocks, are the names of Jewish citizens who once lived and the camps they were sent to be exterminated. The stolpersteine is one of many expressions of repentance the Germans have over their role in permitting the evils of Nazism. As such, the Germans have educated generations of students about events leading up to Hitler’s rise and the resulting war. Readings from Anne Frank and visits to concentration camps are typical history class fare. This is to ensure that history never repeats itself again. Like Germany, the Philippines has long closed a dark chapter in its history. Unlike Germany, Filipino students are deprived of
glorification of heroes and the resilience of the Filipino through the ages. It’s also the reluctant acknowledgement of our errs. History offers a critical lens for us to study our ancestors’ lives facing injustice, hardship, and oppression. Their actions offer clues to guide our present actions. History serves to chronicle the origins of our Filipino identity. How we learn from it predestines the fate of the nation. The absence of historical education denies people the right to learn from the past. Thus, the cycle repeats. Despite the removal of Philippine History from high school, the DepEd argues that
negation fills the gap. Negation weaponizes falsehood and distorts truth to spread its agenda. It fosters division by exploiting biases and prejudices. It sows discord and distrust in public institutions as it proliferates on social media feeds, deluding us from realizing our ignorance. Further strengthening the false legitimacy of historical negation is pluralistic ignorance. When the masses fervently believe in lies, truth bearers become targets of reprisal and censorship. When they have disappeared from public discourse, a million lies become the
Learning history is not limited to the glorification of heroes and the resilience of the Filipino through the ages. It’s also the reluctant acknowledgement of our errors. historical education. In its absence came historical negation, fueling a mania of falsehood that may plunge the country into darkness once again. HISTORICAL NEGATIONISM Historical negation serves to justify a malefactor’s narrative by distorting records and facts. A population well versed in history can stand to eradicate its rise. But when Filipinos cannot discern facts from fiction, can they still tell? Since Toni Gonzaga’s interview with Bong Bong Marcos, there’s been an uptick in TikTok and YouTube videos whitewashing Martial Law as a Golden Age. Accustomed to the schemes of the fake news machinery since 2016, Filipinos are vulnerable to believing dubious claims and tall tales. It’s distressing that even elementary students attest to the mythical aura of the New Society. A time, unfortunately, they weren’t born to see its terrors first hand. We cannot deny that we’re still recovering from the effects of Martial Law. One that we’re beginning to forget. Learning history is not limited to the
History is still discussed (in snippets) in Araling Panlipunan. The problem with this oversimplification is the lack of context surrounding historical events. Let’s remember that there are multiple sides to our history. History books, too, have blind spots. This emphasizes the need for comprehensive Historiography. It maintains records that truthfully represents all of society. This includes records from marginalized communities, whose stories are barely penned in our history. It promotes research, commemoration of historical events, and integration of history in our lives so that the ordinary man may know and appreciate his roots better. History ingrained in the minds of people is stronger than censorship. THE BLACK HOLE George Orwell once wrote, “Whoever controls the present controls the future. Whoever controls the past controls the present.” The disappearance of historical education leaves a black hole in the conscience of Filipinos. Without education navigating Filipinos in understanding our storied past,
EDITORIAL BOARD AY 2021-2022
indomitable truth. RESURGENCE. The battle to preserving the truth is a hard yet critical one. Yet, we must understand that our factual narratives are the cornerstones of our democratic institutions. Forgetting or denying history altogether provides fertile ground for destabilization to take root. Thence, a mass education of the truth is a necessary act. Only possible when we become courageous enough to speak out in the face of repercussions. George Santayana’s “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”, remains as a grim premonition of a dark future where we eradicate history’s role in upholding society’s virtues. Left unheeded, there will come a time when learning history becomes a subversive act. It’s therefore a race against time to ingrain in Filipinos admiration and knowledge of our history before it is rewritten by tyrants. It’s only when we acknowledge the echoes of the past, will the voices of the future lead us towards progress and enlightenment!
The Independent Student Media of a Free Student Body FOUNDED 1910
Editor in Chief KALANIE N. SALDAJENO Associate Editor KATHLEEN E. FRUGALIDAD Managing Editor RYAN DAVE T. PORAL News Editor YUSIMAY V. HABLADO Feature Editor COLEEN F. CASANOVA Literary Editors RACHEL D. BEATIZULA ,
ZHARINA MARIE STEPHANIE P. LUGO Filipino Editor KARREN JAY G. ASGAR Web Administrator DANICA MAE V. HABLADO Layout Editors GAD B. CASTRO,
PRINCE RIC EMMANUEL Q. PACIENTE News Writers (English) CHRISTIAN JAKE A. RUIZ Feature Writers (English) KJETIL JOSTH J. ACIELO , PAULETTE D. TORRICO , PIERRE JHUN D. SAN PEDRO News Writer (Filipino) KAILA MARIE D. CAJUSTIN Feature Writer (Filipino) LEANDRO N. SALDAJENO Feature Writer/Digital Artist JESYL CHARMIL E. BALLEZA Cartoonist ANTOINETTE CRISTEL L. CADIGAL Digital/Layout Artist JAN KARLO M. BEBANCO , DAREN KERN G. ECULLADA , RAY ANGELO C. JAGNA-AN
The Central Echo is an independently managed and financed student press. Opinions expressed herein by the authors, respondents, and artists are exclusively theirs and do not necessarily reflect those of the University or the entire editorial board. ©2021 All rights reserved. Copyright reverts to the respective authors, illustrators, and photographers whose work appear in this issue.
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Cool Off: Reconnecting with Nature BY RACHEL BEATIZULA
If time isn’t spent wisely, this pandemic can bring boredom, stress, and a vibe that could put the mood down. This is why people strive to discover new hobbies or return to their old habits during the lockdown just to utilize their spare time. As the tight protocols slowly loosened, freedom to enjoy things could be easily reached, especially going to places that were restricted.
THE CENTRAL ECHO
paniplat
Nature will always be a comfort zone for others as they enjoy the scenery, views, and activities around it. Surrounding and finding oneself with nature is one of the most therapeutic regimens a person can have. Starting off with being a “plantito” or “plantita”, an activity that entails the ability to take good care of a plant with patience and effort while waiting for it to grow and blossom just to see the beauty in it. Going out with friends and riding bikes as restrictions loosen can restore social relationships that were lost during the lockdown. It provided an opportunity to join a community with similar interests with the goal of visiting places that could refresh minds from their previously enclosed state. A pandemic might give us toxicity, but nature will always heal us from it. Take a break from the fast-paced world and cool down with nature’s company.
by
RACHEL BEATIZULA
JAN BEBANCO
RAY ANGELO JAGNA-AN
RYAN DAVE PORAL
YUSIMAY HABLADO
09
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Indeed, a better Woman Has Won! Historical Accounts of Women Involvement in Philippine Governance BY PAULETTE TORRICO
THE CENTRAL ECHO
feature
“This is not for women.” Although the Philippines has made a significant mark in upholding women’s political participation by having two elected female Presidents in the span of 20 years, patriarchal norms in leadership remain an untreated societal plague. Let’s try to recall President Rodrigo Duterte’s remarks about the possibility of his own daughter running for the presidency.He said, “I would pity her [Sara Duterte] if she goes through what I experienced. This is not for women.” Well, if Mr. President’s misogynistic discretion cannot recognize a woman’s involvement in governance, let us travel back in time.
Women’s involvement in Philippine governance can be traced back to pre-colonial society, dated 900-1521. Babaylans, or female spiritual leaders, played an important role in the early Filipino communities through their shared contributions to culture, religion, medicine, and other theoretical knowledge. In fact, they are known as “proto-scientists” among all other ancient Filipinos, being revered as mystical healers. Babaylans served as the righthand or ancillary to Datu, the head of the village, in managing the activities of the people. During the Spanish colonization period (1565-1898), women were subjected to great abomination and persecution as Babaylans were considered anathema to the colonizers’ religious stance. On February 17, 1899, Asociacion Filantropica dela Cruz Roja (also known Junta Patriotica dela Cruz Roja) was established. It was an organization primarily headed by Hilaria del Rosario with the purpose of raising funds for wounded revolutionary soldiers and looking after their families. The involvement of women in Philippine politics was exalted further by the Suffragist Movement (1898-1937) that paved the way for women to gain the right to vote. On April 30, 1937, women’s right to suffrage was approved in a plebiscite exceeding the 30,000 “YES” votes required by the constitution gaining 447, 725 affirmative votes against 44,307 “no”. The movement was considered a triumph on September 17, 1937 when Manuel L. Quezon, President of the Philippine Commonwealth, finally signed women’s universal suffrage
1111 into law. The first female city councilor was elected in the same year. Then UP law student, Carmen Lim-Planas, was an outward critic of Quezon’s interference in judiciary and was seen at the forefront of youth rallies during her time. Following in her footsteps was Elisa Rosales-Ochoa, who ran in the 1941 congressional elections in Agusan Province made history as the country’s first ever congresswoman. A month after her term, the Second World War broke out in the Philippines. Nevertheless, her tireless service did not cease as she led other nurses in attending to Filipino and American wounded soldiers during the war. In the plight of Second World War in the Philippines (1941-1945), women were victims of rape and sexual slavery.. Despite great tragedy, there were noble women who led armed forces against the colonizers. One of them was Felipa Culala alias Dayang-dayang, a female guerrilla commander who led one of the first guerrilla forces in 1942 called HUKBALAHAP (Hukbong Bayan Laban sa mga Hapon). She led a successful ambush on March 8, 1942 defeating combined Japanese and Filipino forces notwithstanding having only 30-40 warriors in her troop. In 1947, Geromina Tomelden-Pecson was elected as the Philippines’ first female senator. Prior to becoming a senator, she was a teacher, a suffragette and a social worker. As a senator, she led the Senate Committees of Education, Health, Public Welfare, and the Joint Congressional Committee on Education. In 1986, the reign of the first Filipina President marked the end of the country’s darkest days under Marcos’ tyranny. Despite Marcos’ deprecating remarks about her being “just a woman,” Corazon “Cory” Aquino blurted out a premonition, saying, “May the better woman win in this election.” Cory, aided by the People Power Revolution, led a peaceful protest that resulted in the ouster of Ferdinand Marcos and became known worldwide as a peaceful war for the restoration of democracy. Indeed, a better woman has won! In this coming presidential election, another woman will vie for the highest position in the national government. Her Excellency, Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo decided to run for President amidst Duterte’s contempt. Leni is adamant about not allowing the Marcoses to re-enter the higher office to continue their dirty business. Although Leni filed her Certificate of Candidacy (COC) a late, she nevertheless came out with a bang by using pink as her campaign color. Pink is usually associated with femininity and grace. But for this election, it connotes revolution.
History remains unchanging and imperishable however, it is necessary for us to learn from it otherwise we will be ignorant for the rest of our lives. While the presidency is not a job for specific genders, women who are innately nurturing, noble, and kind are the perfect recipients of a good governing body. Gone are the days when women were “just women”. This generation must be cognizant of the fact that a woman’s ability to lead must not only be confined to households. Filipinos want better governance and a misogynist, thief, or dictator cannot provide that. The populace should not settle for anything less than a true leader when there are deserving candidates in the pool of choices. Indeed, the presidency or governance in general is not for women, nor is it for men. It is a calling of true public servants.
LEGAL FRAMEWORKS
Local Government Code of 1991 Provides for the election of sectoral representation in local legislative councils, including women.
Gone are the days when women were “just women”. This generation must be cognizant of the fact that a woman’s ability to lead must not only be confined to households.
Women in Nation Building An act advocating women’s full and equal participation in development and nation-building alongside men.
Framework Plan for Women Part of the Philippine Plan for Women designed to focus on three goals: economic empowerment for women, advancement and protection of women’s human rights, and gender responsive governance.
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Wipe it Out!
Making Philippine History Shine
THE CENTRAL ECHO
feature
NO VOICE UNHEARD
BY GAD CASTRO
“Si Rizal ay bahagi ng illuminati. Hindi s[i]ya namatay, tinakas s[i]ya at yung binaril nila sa luneta ay ibang tao. Nanirahan na sya sa Europe. Ginawa nya yun para magsimula ng himagsikan. Nasa Reddit po ito. Don/t believe your history books,” posted by an anonymous author on Facebook. His lips pouted as his hands repeatedly clutched his beard. Along with this, his eyebrows are seemingly like a wave as the lines in his forehead revealed his frustration and disappointment. This might be the reaction of our national hero, Jose Rizal, as he sees confusion and misinformation covering the truth behind In a digital age where anyone can access information and publish it by someone, it creates vast data storage. This can cause different versions of a published document which also leads to distortion of information. Meanwhile, according to Philippine High School History Movement (PHM), a group of educators that advocate promoting Philippine History, one of the challenges with this information overload is historical revisionism and distortion. WIPING CONFUSION “Historical revisionism is the reinterpretation and updating of a historical account or narrative based on facts and authenticated evidence,” Krasner said. On the other hand, “Historical distortion is when historical accounts or narratives are changed or falsified to suit a ‘personal agenda.’ It involves disinformation and lies to change history,” said Christina Cristobal. The difference between the two sheds light on how the youth of today is exposed to these. “The youth is susceptible to historical distortion online without proper skills and knowledge to combat it,” PHM emphasized. SPRAYING FACTS Due to this, PHM believed that the Department of Education (DepEd) made a mistake in implementing DepEd Order 20 s.2014, stating that Philippine History as a subject will be removed as the K to 12 curriculum will be implemented. Then, it will only be integrated as “pahapyaw,” said Secretary Briones, DepEd
undersecretary. “Philippine History should be returned as a dedicated subject in the high school Araling Panlipunan curriculum that promotes Historical knowledge, nationalism, and critical thinking. (Not a memorizationbased subject),” PHM also quoted. Furthermore, PHM also considers this a source of critical thinking, low reading comprehension, and literacy among young Filipinos. According to the PISA results,
letting facts and truthful information can wipe out these contaminants caused the blurriness of our youth’s future. in 2018, Filipino students scored a mean of 340 points in the reading comprehension exam that falls below the average points of 487. Additionally, to the literacy assessment conducted by OECD in 2019, the Philippines performed the poorest out of 79 countries. Various Empirical studies proved that conversing with one another through discussions in a classroom setting helped students develop information assessment skills and critical thinking skills when reading and understanding multiple
documents. But, unfortunately, these turn of events paved the way for historical revisionism and distortion to confuse the minds of the young ones. Especially now that we are in this trying time, it’s like a cloud of dust and dirt in our windows. Lurking around and blurring what’s the truth. LETTING THE TRUTH SHINE As historical revisionism and distortion unraveled its true identity, PHM advocates to help the students combat and win this war over misperception to bring back Philippine History as a subject to the High School curriculum. In that way, just like its counterpart course in college, Readings in Philippine History, students are encouraged to think deeper and understand how and why the past happened. Thus, by wiping misconceptions and spraying the truth, our students’ worsening reading comprehension skills and critical thinking ability. It’s never too late for us to change things up. Historical revisionism and distortion have been a threat ever since. Nevertheless, cleaning the remnants of misinformation and letting facts and truthful information can wipe out these contaminants caused the blurriness of our youth’s future.
Organ Transplantation:
19 02
1313
A PIG Leap into the Future First attempts of xenotransplants used the organs of a pig, goat, sheep and monkey, but later failed.
19 20 Series of testicular transplants from chimpanzees to aging men was started. The work was later discredited.
19 63 Transplant of chimpanzee kidneys to 13 patients in the US was done. Most failed within 4-8 weeks.
BY PIERRE JHUN SAN PEDRO
In 1954, a young Dr. Joseph Murray engraved his name in medical history by being the first person to be truly successful in performing a human kidney transplantation— a feat that scored him a Nobel Prize in Medicine. Roughly 67 years later, doctors and scientists from New York University’s Langone Transplant Institute attempted a transplantation like no other. By transplanting a genetically modified pig’s kidney into a brain-dead human, and having met little to no complications and rejections in the process; the said team succeeded in their attempt at opening new doors for the medical field.
Led by Dr. Robert Montgomery, director of NYU Langone Transplant Institute, a team of surgeons successfully attached a pig kidney to a human patient. This feat was brought to limelight on major news outlets all over the United States. After the procedure, the team observed the results of the transplant for 54 hours. It was declared a success when the kidney functioned normally and wasn’t rejected by the patient’s body. “It just looked like any transplant I’ve ever done from a living donor. Many kidneys from deceased people don’t work right away, and take days or weeks to start. This worked immediately.” Dr. Montgomery reported. THE FUTURE OF ORGAN TRANSPLANTATION
19 64 First animal to human heart transplant was performed in the US. Patient lived for 2 hours.
19 96 A success was made through the transplantation of pig cells to diabetic patients.
20 21 In New York, surgeons have successfully transplanted a kidney grown in a genetically altered pig to a human and later found that the organ worked normally.
In the recent years, genetic engineering has provided not only insights, but also life-saving solutions to a lot of the problems faced in the medical field. In fact, genetic engineering has been utilized to mass-produce insulin and many other hormones that are used in treating various diseases. By genetically modifying pigs, a sugar found in pig cells that cause immediate organ rejection was removed, thereby making it viable for the use of organ transplant in humans, reported Science News. According to Dr. Montgomery, by altering pigs at a genetic level, a potentially “sustainable, renewable source of organs — the solar and wind of organ availability,” could be used to address the ever-growing shortage of organ donors all over the world. Furthermore, Dr. John Scandling, a kidney specialist from Stanford University, stated that it is highly improbable to address the organ shortage problem with human organs alone, mainly because of the lack of living donors, as well as viable organs from deceased organ donors. A LEAP IN MODERN MEDICINE By transplanting the pig’s thymus gland along with the kidney, the surgeons
believed that such a procedure would help stop the human body from rejecting the kidney in the long run, since it will theoretically clear stray immune cells that would otherwise attack the pig tissue. The kidney was then kept outside of the human body, in order for the team to evaluate its function and situation in real time. Agreeing that the study would receive several controversies, lead investigator Dr. Montgomery believed that there is a real and urgent need to find more organs in order to save the people who are patiently waiting for organ donors. “The traditional paradigm that someone has to die for someone else to live is never going to keep up… I certainly understand the concern and what I would say is that currently about 40% of patients who are waiting for a transplant die before they receive one,” he emphasized. Like shots fired in the dark, civilization as it is now wouldn’t have come this far if it weren’t for the efforts of countless pioneers who dared to break free from the norms of their respective times. In a race against time, ideas after ideas sparked a myriad of revolutions that steered the gears of humanity into where it is now. With the recent advancements in the medical field, the future of organ transplantation truly burns brighter than ever.
The traditional paradigm that someone has to die for someone else to live is never going to keep up…
14
FLOATING ISLANDS
NO VOICE UNHEARD
BY DARREN KERN ECULLADA
The ground is high, the ropes are rough, the risk is yours. Cross through the floating islands using every rope ONLY ONCE. Start and end your adventure at the same island.
As the Gods Will or Squid Game? Which One would You Rather Play?
SERIES REVIEW
THE CENTRAL ECHO
diversion
BY LEANDRO SALDAJENO
One man. One life. The goal is to survive. As the Gods Will and Squid Game, both project this type of vibe. Both shows are gruesome in a way that it depicts how far a person is willing to sacrifice to survive several obstacles. Both plots make you reflect on yourself and the darker side of society. For the past decades, it is undeniable that themes about survival death games are getting popular lately, however, fans noticed many uncanny resemblances between the movie and K-drama. There is no denying that there are similarities between the two shows, but was it intentional or just mere coincidence? The Japanese supernatural horror movie, As the Gods Will (2014), revolves around seventeen-year-old student Takahata Shun (Fukushi Sota) who thinks of his life as boring and yearns for some thrill. Little did he know that his life would turn upside down from
that simple wish when he encountered the first doll named Daruma. He and his classmates were forced to play a game of death. His ordinary life is long gone and his only choice is to survive without knowing who the mastermind is behind all the childish games. On the other hand, the new Netflix dystopian horror series Squid Game (2021), is taking the world by storm. Lee Jung-Jae stars in the series playing a divorced man buried in debt named Seong Gi-Hun. The story begins when he was tasked by his mother to buy a gift and celebrate his daughter’s birthday. Since he got no cash left, he stole his mother’s debit card to gamble recklessly in a horse race. He won after many trials but got beaten by his loan sharks and only got 10,000 won to celebrate with his daughter. At the end of his unlucky day, Gi-hun encountered a mysterious recruiter (Gong Yoo) and asked to play a game called ddakji. The game lasted for a while but when G-hun finally won, the recruiter gave him a business card with three symbols and a phone number. Then, he was given a chance to participate in a larger game with a huge cash prize along with 455 other participants. But little did he know that he is now trapped. He must either survive six children’s games or die without even trying. Both shows were successful in their respective year. Squid Game, in particular, achieve a huge milestone in 2021. The show is officially Netflix’s
biggest original series launch in history, breaking the Netflix record set by “Bridgerton.” Whilst, As the Gods Will smashed box office with 1.9 million USD and was loved by fans both inside and outside Japan. The first similarity spotted by fans is in the first game. “Daruma-san ga koronda” and “Red light, green light” are games wherein players must not move when the dolls are facing them and must pass the trial before the time runs out, or else a player will have instant death. The only slight distinction is that the Japanese movie has the failed players’ heads explode instead of being shot like in the K-drama. Amusingly enough, all the other games are routinely simple children’s games. The trick is simple: use your basic intellect, imagination, physical strength, and teamwork to survive. Aside from these, luck would also come in handy. As the Gods Will is set in a fantasy world in modern-day Japan wherein the players are students chosen by the ‘Gods’ for their wit and strength. Compared to Squid Game, the setting is in a world not different from ours, and the adult players were recruited by normal people to participate in the games. The K-drama emphasized serious themes such as classism. In some episodes, wealthy individuals fancifully watched the players fighting for their lives as a source of pleasure. Its storyline makes an in-depth narrative on society’s struggle with financial inequality and capitalism. Overall, both the movie and K-drama are worth watching. All the acting, visuals, and special effects are definitely top-tier. The two shows instill in the mind of viewers that life is precious and it is ours alone. They deserve the hype and support from people all around the world. Be warned though, horror-death match shows are not for the faint-hearted.
aespa: Next Level
MUSIC REVIEW
15
BY DARREN KERN ECULLADA
Following the massive success of their record-setting debut single Black Mamba, aespa released Next Level last May 17, 2021 as their first comeback. Right from the beginning, aespa has introduced themselves with a very detailed lore. They live in a futuristic world where data collected from the internet can become digital avatar counterparts, called æ. These æs exist in a virtual world called the “Flat” where they can travel to the real world via Port of Soul (P.O.S.) and “SYNK” with their human counterpart. The æs, however, got hacked by a mysterious entity known as the Black Mamba. In Next Level, aespa and their æs travel to a place called “KWANGYA” to try
and find that mysterious entity with the help of the being named “Nævis” as part of the interconnected SM Culture Universe (SMCU). Next Level is, in fact, a remake from the ‘Hobbs & Shaw’ Fast & Furious OST. This record bounces along with futuristic sounds to establish a rather otherworldly atmosphere. The syncopation in the synth incorporates an R&B type beat and a pitch-down bass, and the more swung tempo creates a satisfying progression. Next Level is a mixture of songs that
Humankind: A Hopeful History
are not supposed to go well but did. This song is a gamble to pull off, especially for a rookie group, which is something only aespa is bold to do. For one, it’s an experimental track that follows an unconventional music structure. There are sections of the song that totally had unrelated tempos and different keys but, strangely, had a smooth transition. Although there are two dominant rhythms throughout the record, it is not repulsive for the ear to listen. If we are to anchor this to their concept, the variation in tempo, key, and rhythm tells a narrative. From this perspective, it’s a story set in two different places. Choosing a completely different tempo and completely different pocket for the rhythm is a smart idea to highlight this narrative of aespa and their æs coming from different worlds. This body of work may not be everyone’s cup of tea but that does not negate its excellence. They sure made a big start and this is only the beginning of aespa’s career. It is as evident here as ever that aespa sits among high-caliber artists of the industry. With fingers cross and hopeful prayers, aespa will be the next big thing. artists of the industry. With fingers cross and hopeful prayers, aespa will be the next big thing.
BOOK REVIEW
BY KJETIL JOSTH ACIELO
This book is about a radical idea – that human beings are, in reality, decent deep down. For thousands of years, we’ve long believed that humans are nothing but selfish, conniving, and aggressive creatures. This negative view of humanity has been ingrained in our politics, religion, and science. Yet decades of scientific research suggest that the opposite is true. This premise of compassionate human beings forms the central thesis of “Humankind: A Hopeful History”. Famous for his 2018 bestseller, “Utopia for Realists,” Bregman’s Humankind is a counterargument against our cynicism towards humanity. As the pandemic continues to upend social institutions and expose societal divides, this book might as well reignite your hope in humanity once again. Bregman draws from a broad range of academic reports, anecdotes, and research to prove his claims. It narrates and discusses in detail the forces behind history’s darkest moments, from the holocaust to apartheid. It provides answers as to why humans commit
evil, get corrupted by power, and become indifferent to others’ suffering. Along the way, he challenges the experiments and thinkers that reinforce our pessimistic view of humanity. Further bolstering Humankind’s conviction are historical events where we have exemplified our altruistic natures to its fullest. This book may not fully persuade everyone, yet, Humankind’s findings affirm the humaneness of homo sapiens and decries that our pessimistic view of humanity has been a lie all along. Believing in our goodness is, after all, a realistic viewpoint, which Bregman champions to embody. In a world beset by apathy and pessimism, this book proves that we’re not as bad as we think. It gives hope that progress accelerates when we become compassionate and cooperative. And will ultimately, make us realize that our cynicism disenchants us from acknowledging the hopeful history we’ve dismissed all along.
BY ANTOINETTE CRISTEL CADIGAL
COMICS
sports
Ilonggo Pride triumphs in PSC Para Tilt BY RYAN DAVE PORAL
Ilonggo John Franz De Asis reigned the recently-ended 2021 Philippine Sports Commission– Pilipinas Para Games (PPG) Online Chess Competition for people with disabilities that was virtually held on the Tornelo Platform on Sunday, November 21.
REUTERS BREAKTHROUGH Obiena sets the bar high as he surpasses both Asian and National Pole Vault records in the Austrian Pole Vault tilt.
JUMPING ACCUSATIONS Senate to withdraw PSC’s budget for 2022 after Obiena-PATAFA issue BY RYAN DAVE PORAL & CHRISTIAN JAKE RUIZ
The senate approved Senator Pia Cayetano’s motion to recall the proposed budget offered by the Philippine Sport’s Commission (PSC). According to Cayetano, she filed the movement of recalling the PSC’s budget of P364.24-million budget in 2022 amist ongoing funding issue between Ace pole vaulter EJ Obiena and the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA). The senate’s motion came on, November 22, after Senator Pia Cayetano called out PATAFA for reportedly ordering Obiena to return a total of 85,000 euros, alleging the pole vaulter of corruption. “The reason I am asking for the recall of the budget of PSC is because PSC took a hands-off approach. They said: ‘Work it out.’ How can you do that to your national athlete? Work it out? Look into it. Give importance to our national Athlete who was accused just like that. And it was without basis,” Cayetano said during the budget plenary deliberations. PATAFA claimed that Obiena falsified his liquidation reports and failed to pay money to his coach, Vitaly Petrov. The pole vaulter denied these accusations in a press conference along with Petrov. The coach also disputed PATAFA’s claims as he said that Obiena paid him the Є5,000 monthly stipend.By withdrawing the budget proposed by the PSC, the Senate can convince the committee to do better to protect the athlete. “Ilan ang athlete ng PATAFA na naparating na nila sa Olympics? I think it’s just
EJ Obiena. So don’t you think this guy at least deserves to be treated with respect? There’s nothing that can be done to take away the shame and the embarrassment and the stress that was put upon this athlete as he is training right now and having to deal with all this,” Cayetano stressed. Obiena had already filed multiple counter-complaints against PATAFA along with the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC), the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and World Athletics. “I’ve filed formal complaints with the POC, IOC, and the World Athletics, as we are now talking standard defamation of character” Obiena had said. According to the POC, an investigation will follow suite after they have referred to the vaulter’s complaint regarding the country’s athletics federation and will forward it to the ethics community. PATAFA then belied Obiena’s claim of “character assasinations”, said it was an investigation managed by the board on Obiena was purely internal was kept hidden in the prying eye’s of the public. No senator had opposed Cayetano’s proposal to reconsider the offered budget of the PSC, so it was approved by the plenary last week. The Senate plans to to deliberate the proposed national budget of P5.024 trillion on the last day on Tuesday, November 23.
De Asis gained 5.5 points on five wins and one draw to win the tournament. He brought home the gold medal, a stuffed toy, and P30,000 cash prize in the P1 (Physical Impaired)-Men category. The Ilonggo chess master reigned over Apollo Cabilan in the first round, Sean Mervick Tiu in the second round, Rogelio Clemente in the third round, Sol Tiamzon in the fourth round, and Ronnie Villa in the fifth and penultimate round. In the sixth and final round, he split the point with Eric Abanco. Abanco, the pride of Bacolod City, placed second with 5 points for the runner-up award of P20,000, as well as a stuffed toy and silver medal. Winning third was Jordaine Tupaz of Talisay City with a similar record of 5 points but a lower tie break to resolve for P10,000, a bronze medal, and a stuffed toy. Also with 5 points were 4th placer Alexis Elinon and 5th placer Joseph Gregana who took hine medals and P1,000 each. Completing the top 10 who also won P1,000 each were Ralph Anthony Velasco (6th place, 4.5 pts), Ronnie Villa (7th place, 4 pts.), Sol Tiamzon (8th place, 4 pts.), Ricardo Merano (9th place, 4 pts.) and Max Dave Tellor (10th place, 4 pts.). “We are launching this project in a continued effort to address our need for a truly comprehensive grassroots sports development program for our para-athletes, and continuously harness their full potential,” said PSC Oversight Commissioner for para-athletes Arnold Agustin. The three-day event was inspired by the accomplishment of the country’s Para woodpushers on the international stage, creating the first-ever Filipino world champion in the 2020 International Physically Disabled Chess Association (IPCA) titlist Fide Master Sander Severino and a fourth-place finish in the team competition of the recent 4th World Chess Championship.
John Franz De Asis JOHN’S GAMBIT. Ilonggo Chess ace, De Asis left other players on the board as he claims the gold in the Pilipinas Para Games 2021.