IIII have have
respect respect for forthe thepast, past, but but I'I'm m
moment. moment. person aaaaperson personof person ofthe the
- Maya Angelou Angelou - Maya Angelou Angelou
NOTES FROM THE EDITOR SQUAR
E ONE It’s feeling
INSIGNIFICANT gazing out at THE VAST OCEAN. It’s surrendering control to
IT’S A DAUNTING TASK, TAKING THAT FIRST STEP FORWARD. It’s staring down a blank page, uncertain of your words.
unfamiliar terrain.
But you’ll see, after overcoming the weight of that first step, the next few paces are just within your reach. And unburdened by doubt, you’ll take that next
UNCERTAIN LEAP
step, then the next, then the next – each stride easier than the one before. Though, don’t expect your journey to be
CRIPPLING HEIGHT.
as easy as connecting two points on a map. You’ll face forked roads and
It’s taking an from a
detours. You’ll fall short and falter. But don’t let mistakes discourage you.
PS E T S N, HE ALL T ’VE TAKAECKWARD, YOURD AND B
E H T E N I F DE ERSONARE. P OU
A FORW
Y THAT
, ei
c
BREATHE IN THEN OUT. TAKE THAT FIRST STEP, AND TURN THE PAGE. 1
THE BONIFACIO MONUMENT This year’s cover draws inspiration from this enduring landmark. The brainchild of National Artist Guillermo Tolentino, it was first unveiled in 1929, dedicated to the memory of Andrés Bonifacio, Supremo of the Katipunan. Standing along one of Metro Manila’s major thoroughfares, the monument has grown synonymous with the ideals of Bonifacio, freedom and a passionate love for the motherland.
Editorial Board SY 2014-2015
Initiations
SINONG SUPREMO DID YOU KNOW WE HAVE ONLY ONE KNOWN PHOTOGRAPH OF THE SUPREMO? For someone of
immense importance in Philippine history, there exists only one photo of the national hero.
BONIFACIO WAS AN ACTOR. As a member of the Samahang Dramatista ng Tundó, the Supremo got to play roles in Bernardo Carpio and Florante at Laura.
During Bonifacio’s time, an international newspaper published a photo of him with the caption “Titulado Presidente de la Republica Tagala” or “Recognized President of the Tagalog Republic.” leading some to speculate that
BONIFACIO COULD BE THE REAL FIRST PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES
Rhick Lars Vladimer Albay Editor-in-Chief
Ron Adrian Dionaldo Dazen Dawn Lariza Associate Editors
Verna Roz Taperla Managing Editor
Paul Mackey Marfil News Editor
Katrina Joyce Mabanes Jeziel Vargas Feature Editors
Micaela Allen Garcia Charles Arthel Rey Filipino Editors
Patricia Meliz Labramonte Bryan Fran Literary Editors
Chalcedon Sañor
Photography Chief
Jedrick Leighnoir Solinap Photojournalist
Michael Angelo Fandagani Allen Grace Tabi Digital Artists
Irish Paoline Jurinario Julian Paul Querubin Cartoonists
Unique Canonicato Layout Editor
Krystille Camille Bontuyan Vic Morena Vivienne Songcayawon Aimee Lou Tagaro Staff Writers
Prof. Esther Rose Romarate Prof. Rea Angelica Villeza 2
Advisers
#NoVoiceUnheard facebook.com/centralecho
www.centralecho.co m
THE
BACKDROP Shot on location at the Injap Tower Helipad, the highest point of Iloilo’s new towering fixture. Setting up a photoshoot 21 storeys off the ground, brought its own set of challenges. The Central Echo staff members and our gracious models had to fight off sudden gusts of wind and glaring sunlight the whole day, but the end was very rewarding, as we were treated to a 360 degree view of Iloilo City and the Guimaras Island at sunset. Unforgettable to everyone involved, especially those suffering from a fear of heights.
WE WOULD LIKE TO EXPRESS OUR GRATITUDE TO THE FOLLOWING PEOPLE Ms. Lea Prodigo Ms. Lilibeth Lorio Ms. Candelaria Purzuelo Mr. Jojo Purzuelo Mr. Ruperto Quitag Mr. Freddie Reteracion Mr. Diovannie Catague Ms. Ingrid Faye Astronomia CPU Teatro, Sining ATBP Makinaugalingon Printer & Bookbinder Centralian Student Body
ABOUT THE COVER MARCH TRIUMPHANT – Lady Victory leads on the dynamic youth, armed not by bolos and rifles but with today’s arsenal of free expression – the pen, the camera, and the canvas. At a new horizon, with only the sky as their limit, the youth charge on, embodying the ideals of Bonifacio and the Katipuneros. THE CENTRAL ECHO opens its doors to new blood during the start of every school year. We need driven and motivated creatives with fresh perspectives, and crazy new ideas.
Cover Photo by
CHALCEDON SAÑOR Cover Concept and Layout by
RHICK LARS ALBAY
LIKE OUR OFFICIAL FACEBOOK PAGE FOR UPDATES, AND WATCH OUT FOR THE ANNOUNCEMENT
WE’LL BE SENDING THE CALL OUT SOON
MeMBer -
cOllege eDitOrS guilD OF tHe PHiliPPineS
3
centrallecho centra lecho the
CONTENTS Vol. CV Num. III
8 Monuments & Maladies 10 Lest We Forget 12 The TEDx Experience 14 Reimagining CPu 17 In the Aftermath of the Elections 21 An Abundance of Hashtag
Marching On Fields of Blood War in Peace
24 26 28
The Hashtag, an omnipresent symbol of social media - overused by the vain, worshipped by the Twitterati. It’s been used to mobilize protests, to crowd source opinions world-wide, and to deliver breaking news in realtime. But it’s also induced widespread irritation and encouraged some of the most inane trends. Scattered all over this issue are some of the most socially relevant hashtags, from #SaveMaryJane to #NoVoiceUnheard let’s get them trending.
June 2015
30 What the Water Gave Us 34 Munting Hiling 39 A New Home 42 If We Lit Up the Youth 52 When Fides Runs the Race 54 Para Kanino Ka Bumabangon? 55 Pay It Forward 56 The Art of Fortune Telling 57 A Brief History of the Selfie 58 Upgraded 60 The Secret Menu 62 Hype 66 We Can Be Heroes 70 Paniplat
Onward and
Upward
Welcome to our Forward Issue
REIMAGINING CPU Setting the Blueprint For a Better Central
WALKING ON AIR With the talented
Iya Astronomia
CULTIVATING COMMUNITIES
The Lanit Relocation Site + Brgy. North Baluarte
The drummer of the Iloilo Dragon Boat team fervently keeps up the beat to keep all of the boat paddlers in sync Full tHrOttle Photo by Jedrick Leighnoir Solinap
6
7
#
Never underestimate the power of A hashtag
an aBunDance
If you’re an avid user of social networking
sites like Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and the like, then you’ve probably understood how hashtags cold help steer the wheel that drives this ever-changing world. Looking back, we can clearly see how they have ignited several social
OF
media movements and stirred up a number of debates concerning various controversial issues.
HaSHtagS
From the shooting of an unarmed civilian to the almost undying list of Ice Bucket Challenge videos, our will to reach out and connect seemed impregnable with the aid of hashtags. But were they successful? Have they created a ripple big enough to make long term solutions? We may or may never know. But one thing is for sure—in this day and age, one simple hashtag could mean a lot.
#IceBucketChallenge It is said to be the social media movement
with the biggest real-world impact in 2014. It all started when a golfer named Chris
Kennedy got nominated by a friend. But during
Words by Paul Mackey Marfil
#HeForShe
The fight for gender equality was punctuated
#OccupyCentral
that time, the Ice Bucket Challenge was not yet connected to any specific cause, and participants still had the freedom to select their own choice
even more when actress Emma Watson delivered
of charity. Kennedy’s friend chose a charity that
her speech on women’s rights in September 2014
benefited a child with cancer, so he eventually
gathered in the streets of Hong Kong as they
at the UN Headquarters. The speech became
opted for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
protested in unison against the decision of the
sensational, making the hashtag #HeForShe a
because one of his relatives was suffering from
Standing Committee of the National People’s
worldwide trend.
the said disease.
Last September to October, thousands
Congress to make reforms in the city’s electoral
In her message, Watson asked men from
On July 15 last year, Kennedy posted his
system—reforms that are, according to the
all around the world to also join the campaign
video on YouTube. It was the first one where the
protesters, highly restrictive.
against gender inequality—and many have
Ice Bucket Challenge and ALS finally got linked.
What’s amazing about the protest was
answered. The movement got even more
The campaign eventually spread like
wildfire, prompting even the biggest names in
Instagram to communicate and share photos
Leto, Eddie Redmayne, Joseph Gordon-Levitt,
Hollywood, sports, and politics to join.
of the demonstration. Organizers even used
Tom Hiddleston, Russel Crowe, and Harry Styles
FireChat, a messaging app that relies on
posted on Twitter their utmost support for the
#IceBucketChallenge trend raised $15.6 million
bluetooth and not on Internet connection.
campaign.
for ALS research.
Here's some of the news that got social media abuzz
widespread when male celebrities like Jared
trenDing tOPicS
the activitsts’ use of Facebook, Twitter, and
#JosieRizal New character, Josie Rizal, in the video game Tekken 7, polarizes Filipino netizens, some insulted by the use of our National Hero’s name, some poking fun at the bizarre choices in the character’s design, with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts launching a study on whether the creators of Tekken 7 are liable for devaluing our national heritage.
In less than three weeks, the
#JESUISCHARLIE # BRINGBACKOURGIRLS
#IFTHEYGUNNEDMEDOWN
#GAZAUNDERATTACK
#H E F O R S H E #SAVEMARYJANE
#ICEBUCKETCHALLENGE
#Ferguson What else can spark months of demonstration in the US? The shooting of an unarmed black teenager, of course. When Michael Brown was shot by a white police officer last August 9, it yielded protests and national debates regarding race and police tactics. Like Occupy Central, protesters used Social Media to plan and collect donations for their demonstrations. Sadly, many were disappointed with the grand jury’s decision to not indict Darren Wilson, the police officer involved in the shooting.
# FERGUSON #JeSuisCharlie
But the protests endured, and many more
voices gathered to yell the truth that even “black lives matter.”
#UKRAINEUNDERATTACK
#YESALLWOMEN #OccuPYcentral
#ICANTBREATHE
People from around the world expressed their solidarity with French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo after its main office was attacked by a terrorist group just this January. By using the hashtag #JeSuisCharlie and by changing their profile pictures with a white-on-black image of the phrase, netizens painted a vivid picture about how freedom of expression should not be constrained by terrorism, and that the power of the pen should not be severed by the pull of the trigger.
#TWITTERISBLOCKEDINTURKEY Life imitates fiction in Thailand, with the ThreeFinger Salute popularized by the Hunger Games franchise becoming the official symbol of protests against their country’s military-run government. Thai police has detained numerous activists publicly flashing the salute.
#IAmMalala #DistrictThai
At the age of 17, Malala Yousafzai became the youngest person to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for her activism against gender discrimination in the education system of her home country Pakistan.
MOnuMentS & MalaDieS #PambansangPhotobomber #TerrorDeManila Words by Charles Arthel Rey Art by Unique Canonicato
Weighing the value of history in the wake of economic developlment Monuments are re-enactments of events that are marked in the heart of our history and in the mind of our people. They were built as symbols of gratitude to the heroes who sacrificed themselves for the sake of freedom. They remind the young and the generations to come how our forefathers fought, shed blood, and died for us to experience independence from bondage and colonialism. The Luneta Park—the most famous shrine of the hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal, the very place of his execution on the 30th day of December 1896, for exposing truths about the cruelty of Spanish rule— was in this year’s major headlines. A stand off against the building of Torre de Manila, a skyline behind the view of the famous park, captured national attention when the Order of the Knights of Rizal, a “public corporation
10
MOnuMental
46 7
Storeys
Height of Torre de Manila
Storeys
The height limit of buildings within the zone cluster where Torre de Manila is located
Laws Defied by Torre de Manila rep. act no.
4846
Cultural Properties Preservation and Protection Act
rep. act no.
7356
Creation of the National Commission on Culture and the Arts, and instilling its role to protect and Philippine Cultural Heritage Sites
rep. act no.
10066
The National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009, “An Act Providing for the Protection and Conservation of the National Cultural Heritage”
established under Republic Act 646, to propagate the teachings, life and works of Jose Rizal” tried to stop the construction of the 46-storey building, through a letter filed at the Supreme Court asking the high court to order the demolition of the building. Torre de Manila seemed to destroy the sky view at the back of the monument, where most tourists have their photos taken. The view will affect the over-all appearance of the historical spot, and may cause the decline in the number of tourist visiting the park. Moreover, the group sees it as a “nuisance and offends the senses of the people who honor Rizal’s memory.” The National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA) is aiding to stop the building of the Torre de Manila.
Others may see this as a shallow issue, but for those who were affected by Rizal’s teachings and life, on a personal level, they see this as an insult and the lowest form of historical devaluation. This issue also involves the economic situation of the country because Torre de Manila will greatly contribute to the development of the country as it will provide jobs for the Filipinos. It will, in fact, become a monument of Philippine development—a proof that indeed the nation continues to soar higher. Therefore, this is a battle of economic growth versus historical preservation, a debate to protect a historical monument or build a new commercial highrise, and in this battle, we can hardly take sides, knowing that both of them can still benefit the people-- a moral dilemma indeed.
It’s economic growth versus historical preservation, a debate to protect a monument or buIld a new commercial highrise
Yes, we aim for our country to develop optimally, but it should be in the manner that preserves the past, which allowed these developments to happen. It should be a balance between sustainable development and the preservation of history. After all, Jose Rizal said “He who does not know how to look back to where he came from will never get to his destination.“ Until today, the debate on whether or not to stop the construction of Torre de Manila is on-going in court. We just hope that the court, the NCCA, and the Order of the Knights of Rizal arrive at a conclusion that will be beneficial to the Philippine economy without devalueing our country’s monument honoring our national hero.
leSt We FOrget Words by Rhick Lars Albay Art by Unique Canonicato
the harrowing state of the philippine news cycle
Pemberton Incident, the untimely death of 44 Special Action Force members, the futile dialogues for the Bangsamoro Agreement. The list goes on indefinitely. What do all of these issues have in common? In not a single one of them have we achieved any semblance of a resolution.
It’s been said that the first rough draft of history is
But who is to blame? Some would say our judicial
written by journalists. This speaks true especially here
system for continuing to baffle us year in and year out in its
in the Philippines, where the opinion of the majority is
incompetence and lack of backbone. Some would say our
highly influenced by the media. We’ve all, as a country,
elected officials for prioritizing self-interest and political gain
witnessed a lot of dark chapters for the Philippines
over justice and fairness. But could we, the noble citizens of the
in these past few years, mostly through our television
Republic of the Philippines be also partly to blame?
screens, also through newspapers and social media. The Maguindanao Massacre, corruption charges
It is claimed that Filipino people is a very forgiving race, after all we are now allies with one of our former colonizers,
against Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, stacking allegations
and here incarcerated politicians found guilty of graft and
of Election fraud, Janet Napoles and her Pork Barrel
corruption still manage to get elected. But many would disagree
Scam, calls for the impeachment of P-Noy because of
and say no. We are not a race that forgives effortlessly, we are a
the Disbursement Acceleration Program scandal, the
race that very easily forgets. Perhaps it’s just simply how we’ve come to adapt to the cycle our nation is stuck in, with new setbacks being dug up before we can even settle on solutions for the problems already piled in front of us. Older issues being pushed back and farther and farther away from our national consciousness, until we
12
cOunting caSualtieS
#Kentex
#Mamasapano
Workers trapped and killed during slipper factory fire in Valenzuela
44
Special Action Force commandos killed during the “misencounter”
18
MILF fighters slain, as confirmed by Moro Islamic Liberation Front chief negotiator Mohagher Iqbal
at least
7
The number of Civilian casualties from the Mamasapano stand-off
5
years old
Age of Sarah Panangulon, the youngest civilian casualty of the Mamasapano clash
finally reach a point wherein the Filipino people have just simply lost all their interest in the subject.
72
202php
The daily wage of Kentex’s factory workers
php 481 The minimum wage in NCR for workers in the nonagriculture sector
once an Issue Has eXhausted its airtime, It descends Into obscurity untIl very Few people are leFt to suPPort and Fight For the cause
#SaveMaryJane A summary of Mary Jane Veloso's long journey to reprieve 2010
April 18 – Mary Jane is illegally recruited by Ma. Kristina “Tintin” Sergio
April 25 – Mary Jane is apprehended at the International Airport of Indonesia with 2.6 kilograms of heroin in her possession, Mary Jane asserts that she was not aware that the drugs were in her luggage
October 4
– Mary Jane is put on trial represented by a courtappointed lawyer, with very little assistance from the Philippine government
October 11 – Mary Jane is sentenced with the death penalty
2011
August 23 – P-Noy requests for clemency in favour of Mary Jane
2013
April 15 – Mary Jane’s police friends and her fellow inmates sponsor a visit from her family. At this point, the Philippine government has yet to offer any financial assistance.
2014
December 30 – Indonesian Pres. Joko Widodo officially rejects the request for clemency on behalf of Mary Jane.
2015
Broadcast of the Ampatuan Trials, journalist,
February 2 – Migrante, an
Maguindanao Massacre put the Philippines
activists, even concerned citizens took to social
on the map for most number of journalists
media and announced Never Forget, a call for
gunned down in their line of work, nearly
justice in the Maguindanao Massacre case.
advocacy group active in defending the rights and welfare of OFWs, offers their help to the Veloso family
It’s been more than five years since the
two years since the Pork Barrel Scam broke
Although since then still very little
headlines, and only six months since the
development has come to light, reminding the
death of Jennifer Laude, but the progress
country of the animosity we’ve gone through can
and media coverage for these national issues
spark awareness and keep the fire burning. The
has plateaued. Very soon they may lack our
Filipino people should not just forgive and forget
nation’s attention completely.
all the intrusions and crimes done against us.
It’s a proven fact that once an issue
It’s a simple call to arms, Never Forget. In
April 7 – The Veloso family holds a press conference in front of the DFA office in Manila deploring the government’s lack of action on Mary Jane’s case.
April 21 – News of Mary Jane’s impending execution spreads like wildfire on social media, #SaveMaryJane becomes a trending topic
has exhausted its airtime and has lost the
a country where state controversies dominate
interest of the people, it descends into
our new cycle daily, and justice moves at a snail’s
obscurity until very few people are left
pace, this is the easiest way we can contribute
April 27 – A petition by Change.org
to support and fight for the cause. Many
to the national cause. To never forget the 58
concerns of great importance have fallen to
slaughtered for political gain, to never forget the
this fate, gone unresolved and left to die. We
millions stolen from us by the very people we put
to save Mary Jane circulates online, becoming one ofthe fastest-growing petitions
should not let this happen again and again.
into office, to never forget the trespasses done
There’s a simple mantra we can adapt
to us by other countries, to never forget how
to undo this- Never forget. Tired of the lack
Filipino blood has been spilled so easily in the
of movement and troubled by the Supreme
name of a futile cause.
Court ruling that bans the Live Media
These two simple words, Never Forget.
April 28 – Tintin surrenders herself to police, citing death threats as the reason for seeking protection.
April 29 – Mary Jane is granted a last-minute reprieve from the firing squad around 1 a.m.
You’ve probably seen at least one or two of these videos online, some of the most influential people in the world delivering speeches aimed at a global audience, sharing valuable insights and funny anecdotes with talks that can range from Bill Gates urging on the need to reduce our Carbon Footprint, to Susan Cain sharing about the Power of Introverts, to Stephen Hawking inviting us to question the Universe. This is the vast resource that TEDTalks has become. TEDTalks and its affiliated independent TEDx events have grown into a recognizable name, with a growing international following, videos posted on their channels garnering millions of views, TED conventions being held in different parts of the world everyday. Just this March, a TEDx event was hosted for the first time in Western Visayas, here at Iloilo. TEDxUPV, with the theme Transition, was held at the Miag-ao Campus of the University of the Philippines and yours truly was one of the 100 chosen to take part in the esteemed event. The speakers included veteran journalist Howie Severino, Atty. Prima Quinsayas a prosecutor in the Maguindanao Massacre, One Million Lights Philippines’ Mark Lozano, and many more.
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E
P X
R E
N IE
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g n i ar
s a e Id
h s ro th w
Words by Rhick Lars Albay Photos by Ruperto Quitag
The event was unique not only because of the TEDx
name, but even more so for the immersive experience. Instead of the usual open forum after the talks, the audience were allowed to freely interact with the speakers during short intermissions, all very gamely conversing with us and entertaining our questions. You could even be lucky enough to score a one-on-one interview with some of them, if you had enough patience. And while most of my peers decided to ask the speakers for selfies, the student journalist in me sprung into action and asked these esteemed speakers some questions.
W
ell known for his eye-opening documentaries on I-Witness, Howie
Severino is one of GMA’s most notable journalists, currently serving as the Editor-inChief of GMA News Online and Vice President for Multimedia Journalism. Many typecast today’s Selfie Generation as uninvolved and narcissistic but in his talk, Sir Howie spoke of how we have the potential to be the most empowered age group in history, with the internet and social media on our side. He shared candidly about his experiences as a
Howie Severino
young journalist during Martial Law, and how he was once detained merely for taking pictures of a protest, encouraging us to use wisely the freedom we enjoy today. Sir Howie cited the Million People March against the pork barrel scam and the Yellow Boat of Hope Campaign that provides bangkas to underprivileged communities, both advocacies that stemmed from online
CE: What would your advice be to aspiring writers and young journalists that look up to you? Sir Howie: Do your best because that’s what the profession deserves.
movements and have made a great impact on society. CE: You spoke about how today’s youth has the potential to become the greatest generation, what should be our first step to achieve this? Sir Howie: I think the main idea is to think beyond yourself. The youth have the potential in them to either build up themselves or build a nation. Be selfless. Be Unselfie. Cultivate a brand associated with service, intellect, and curiosity. Turn your camera and point it to the world.
15
A
tty. Quinsayas is one of the prosecutors handling the Maguindanao Massacre case, where she represents the families of 17 journalists
gunned down in the line of duty. She is an advocate against impunity and is currently the legal counsel of the Freedom Fund for Filipino Journalists, a
Atty. Prima Jesusa Quinsayas
network of media organizations that supports the families of media murder victims. With the harrowing state of today’s politics, it falls on the shoulders of journalists the need to inform the people, but the profession has grown more and more dangerous, and media casualties are at a troubling high. Atty. Prima took up the responsibility of fighting for the victims of the Maguindanao Massacre immediately after the story broke headlines. She recalls flying to Maguindanao merely days after the incident and facing the families of 17 journalists killed while in their line of duty. Atty Quinsayas admits that nearly 6 years in, a lot of the families have lost hope of ever achieving justice, but she has done her best to convince them otherwise, enduring the struggle and strain of the notorious case. CE: What should be the next step in achieving justice in the Ampatuan Case? Atty. Quinsayas: It should be the following of our Supreme Court’s guidelines strictly, by all involved. And though press freedom is not usually an advocacy of the youth, we need to promote it to ensure awareness among Filipinos
CE: How would you define moving forward? Atty. Quinsayas: Moving forward is learning from the past.
Angenette Bantiles
M
s. Bantilles experienced firsthand the cruelty of Typhoon
Yolanda when it rammed through
Tacloban City in November of 2013, leaving her the lone survivor in their family of five. Since then she has fought hard to cope with her loss and has become actively involved with different youth organizations. Most of us have developed irritation to the phrase You Only Live Once and the hashtag YOLO, but Angenette who prefers going by Anj, admits that it has become her silent mantra and a means to handle all she’s been through. During the talk, Anj narrated in vivid detail how the faithful day of Yolanda’s landfall changed her life completely; how she lost grip of her siblings in the surge of waves, how she had to cling to a piece of wood just to stay afloat, and how she managed to lift herself from the rushing waters to the roof of a hospital that turned out to be nearly two kilometres away from her home. Though saddened that her family was not as lucky as she was, Anj is grateful for the new life she’s been given and the support of her relatives and friends. She admits to living by “You Only live Once”, but she’s clearly proven that you can be given a second chance.
16
CE: How have you come to terms with the aftermath of Yolanda? Anj: The experience was definitely life changing, but my relatives stepped up and supported me through it all. And I’ve learned to let go, letting go of the things I can’t control, letting go of the reins and just letting things fall into place.
g n i n i g ima
e R cPu
SETTING THE BLUEPRINT FOR A BETTER CENTRAL + University Dress Code + Infrastructure + Current Issues
in tHe DuMPS
#NoVoiceUnheard 17
Take part in Reimagining CPU, where we picture what it will be like for a student of Central Philippine University in the near future
WHat Will cPu Be liKe 50 YearS FrOM nOW?
Antonette Solinap We wont be needing our IDs coz they’ll have a scanning machine to scan us for identification
Glyn Christian Tupas May cable car na nga galibot sa cpu. Rooftop ka tga building may terminal. XD
HerrPohlenz Garbino 50 years from now? hmm.. tama gid ka taas nga tuition fee!!! JOKE! ! ! saka na gane subong,, nu pa gid bi kung 50 years later..
Chedrex Kabayao Buildings would be higher than injap tower. And UY bldg. Is already floating wherein students are using escalators above the sky. Hahahah (weird Imagination)
Dion Greg Reyes More courses offered like Architecture and Fine Arts. Tapos a producer of more topnotchers and 100% passing in board exams. :)
but realtalk .. Hopefully 50 years from now . CPU would be a TUITION FREE SCHOOL. Hahahaha and dining hall would have a free delivery you order.
Jason Uy
Tin Victoriano 50 years from now, you can study from home, with tablets or holograms as medium of instruction, robots as teachers, we would be sitting on floating wheel chairs. Hahaha. Who knows, CPU might be a school where only machines populate, and managed by
In the future we would have already developed a type of “smart classroom” where one lecturer in a room can instruct several classrooms from far away, while making it appear as if they are physically present. This tech is already being developed, forgot what it was called.
humans....i mean robots. Lol
Anfernee Joan Ng I just hope that a transportation system is installed. o.o Like some kind of conveyor belt u see in airports. Helps a lot. :D
WHat Will centralian StuDentS Be Wearing in tHe Future?
Marvin Laraño Back to no uniform again, just “proper dress code”
Kim Apitong Depalobos Maybe the uniforms will be like in the anime.... short skirts with black leggings...hahaha
18
Hainze Betorio We’ll be wearing tight suits made out of smart materials that has the capacity to adapt from the melting heat to the freezing cold of the environment, that will also serve as our second skin.
Last year the Engineering Building was given a new floor and the Nursing Building got a much needed facelift, with the added bonus of an elevator. What other Buildings in CPU require an overhaul?
WHat BuilDingS SHOulD Be DeVelOPeD in tHe neXt FeW ? YearS anD HOW
Jeddy Solinap I think indi elevator need sang Eng pero escalator ... inefficient daan kun elevator especially kun damu tawo .
Agape Love Abonador
Ceaz Jarder Serilo
Modernized bldg of Roblee Science Hall nga may tinlo kag
Building for cba students! huya man kmi,
lapad nga CR. Especially sa 2nd floor (life science), tani may
kmi pd kadamo population pro ang nv bldg
enough space man para sa mga laboratory equipments like
3 lng ka floor, gna occupy pa sang college of
tingob lang gid ya sa isa ka big room ang tanan nga kinanglan
law (2nd floor), graduate studies (3rd floor)
sa lab kay ga linapta lang ya, kag separate gid nga rooms for laboratory class (glass door and tiles ang salog). Ang LDT nami
Lucky Sanders
man ya ila laboratory hw... Kbye.
Tani may campus mobile XD kalayo dan mag.lakat sa CPU and super init kis.a hahah!:P
Wesley Angelo Barayuga CR for LGBT
all is well looking to the future, but what about the issues that concern us now Nathaniel Mallorca pag saka sang tuition, magamo nga liderato, Suksuk sang gin-ot na uniform, Mo ni ang Forever sa CPU... ano pagid?
Ceanalli Martin Inocencio OA man na nga mapa PE gid every sem! Tani gin adlaw2 niyo pagid! Para mas nami. Kag mas sadya! Kay nalipay gid kami ya sa pila2 kag bayad2 ah! Oh diba guys?????
Rex Sarabia Guys may ara kita soon open forum with the admin. Kun ako sa
enforcement of the University Dress Code has become even more strict in these past few months, what will it be like a few years from now? Will the uniform be changed to something more modern?
inyo tipunon nyo mga reklamo nyo kag gisahon nyo ang admin. Mga on or before July. Nan kay kun mag open forum wala man may ga alattend. Lets empower the studentry by spreading student activism. If we are united, the admin has no choice but to compromise.
19
Jeddy solinap the hell? ... 10.03% Tuition fee Increase :) *flips table*
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Karisse Mae Legayada
Charmane chin
Bati ko subong ang deadline sng pagpapreenlist. Tuod gid man? Until now nde man ko dyapon kasulod. Pano na? Nano ang online enrolment nga? Kung subong ang deadline, does it mean sa CPU nlg gid kami mkapapreenlist? Pano nila nahambal nga easy kag mas madasig ang online enrolment when infact, it would take hours or days para mkasulod ka sa server. Plus, sa amon bi nga sa town pa, pasalamat na tne kami na kay pde na namon mcheck online ang grades nmon, no need na nga magpacity kag magkadto sa school kundi less gasto sa fare, pro gle imo baliskad ang natabo.
Neil Jason So ang wala kpa PE pauntatun nyu skwela?
Erika Marie B. Buyco Around 5am. Pa una2x sa relief goods. ??????
Ruben Glenn Nogodula Madredano Experience namun sa mission.. bisan ano oras ka makaabot, 5am ang iban kmi ya 6:30..... mahulat ka gyapon mag 7:30 kay dra palang ma lawagay. hahaha
Vaughn Johann Geonanga Dear CPU server, Nka bayad nku utang ko. Blocked gyapun? Budlai gd mag move on? Pfft.
Atria Cutanda You’re saying that it is our right to have our physical examination. Tani,
Baquinquito Aria Khaelen
gaan niyo man kami sng freedom to choose whether to make use of
Guys you should check your RFs.
that right or not. Afterall, kami man gabayad. The bottomline is, mas
Especially to those who have a balance in
importante ang amun nga right to education kaysa sa right to physical
their old accounts.Cause i kinda already
examination nga nah. Even the Commission on Higher Education says
paid off my old account this morning. But
so. And the fact nga gina monopolize niyo ang pagpa PE. Ngaa dapat
i guess they didn’t clear it up. And instead
sa Mission Hospital gid? Ngaa indi pwede sa iban nga health centers
they added it to my new one.
magpasa sang specimen? Kun gusto niyo man lang nga masigurado ang health namun, allow us to do it nga mas accessible samun especially ang ara pa sa uma ga istar.
OFFICIAL BALLOT
MARCH 6, 2015 CPU REPUBLIC ELECTIONS HOW TO VOTE 1. SHADE THE CIRCLE WHICH CORRESPONDS TO YOUR CHOSEN CANDIDATE(S). 2. USE A BALLPOINT PEN OR MARKER IN SHADING, AS PROVIDED. 3. DO NOT VOTE FOR MORE THAN WHAT IS INDICATED IN A CERTAIN OFFICE
PRESIDENT
VICE-PRESIDENT
(VOTE 1)
(VOTE 1)
This year's CPUR Elections got really heated
in tHe aFterMatH OF tHe electiOnS SENATORS (VOTE 8)
CPU had become a battleground of two opposing armies. As bombs flared and guns shot, casualties on both sides fired up like warheads detonating, and
Now we ask: what's in store for our new set of elected officials? Words by Ron Adrian Dionaldo Photos by Chalcedon Sa単or
all the while seemingly innocent bystanders found themselves dragged into the fight. Those who were once neutrals were forced to take a side, and veterans and neophytes alike were not spared from destruction. When the smoke finally cleared, the arena revealed nary a sign of either the victors or the losers. Standing on the ruined land were the same people who had previously clashed, now working hand in hand as they aided the wounded.
21
Nobody wins and nobody loses, because in this war, all that matters is the aftermath that will ultimately follow. Elections may be a hard, taxing, strenuous, full of controversy and tension. However, if leaders stay true to their promises of serving the student body, then the promises should be kept whether they win or lose. Sure, the ultimatum decrees that the positions at the top are indeed official positions—granted by the majority to those deemed worthy—but at its very core, leading and serving are noble passions that require no formal titles. Before I continue, I admit I did not vote. I personally know only two or three of the candidates from the official list. I was not physically present at CPU for the most part of the school year, and I could only
a leader true to his word and deed—no hidden agenda or vaIn desIre for fame and glory—will be looked upon with Favour Those who somehow fell short of emerging
follow the exciting and dramatic trail of the
at the top are not devoid of any victory. Leading
elections through the Internet. I do not have
and serving do not end when the precincts are
the slightest idea of who will possibly win at
closed and the scores are tallied. God’s “no” does
move the pond. The influence is inherently there.
this time of writing, and I will no longer be
not usually mean a rejection but a redirection. If
One act—like picking the trash—is all it takes.
present at school to see them work next year.
the doors of the student government cannot be
The rest will follow suit.
To put it plainly, I was not actively
moved, then perhaps there are other doors that
A leader is honest to himself, to his
involved in this year’s elections. But this I
are freely open. A true leader, after all, leads even
colleagues, and to the people he serves. An honest
do know: next year, around 13,000 students
without the titles, fame, recognition, or benefits.
leader knows he is as accountable to God as
will enter the gates of this campus, and their
But behind these words of closure and
much as he is accountable to men.
school experience here will be directly defined
comfort lies one lesson any aftermath discreetly
by the people at the helm. And so the least
imposes: the battle had laid waste to the land,
honest with passion reinforced by actual works,
that I could do is to believe that the aftermath
and therefore it is imperative for the current
the aftermath will usher to a new golden age
of this election will be positive.
leaders to prevent it from happening again.
for CPU. Sure, a future battle is inevitable, but
At its simplicity, a positive aftermath is basically one unified team of leaders. Illusions of political parties should be left behind for the bigger work ahead. Those who officially
As long as this year’s leaders stay true and
How?
the bloody war will be mitigated to a friendly
Be true and honest. That is all that matters,
competition.
because everything else will fall into place. A leader true to his word and deed—no
Despite the controversies, pains, and scars, an aftermath need not necessarily have a negative
won are now faced with new responsibilities.
hidden agenda or vain desire for fame and
connotation. And in a Christian school like CPU,
Sure, the battles may have left scars that may
glory—will be looked upon with favour. He may
aftermaths are challenges to lead like Christ did.
never heal, but a leader knows how to control
not have his name plastered in every tarpaulin or
In the end, aftermaths are reminders that despite
his pride, yield, and work with those who
program, but the simplest and most genuine acts
the odds, we are still one student body with one
were once his contenders, now his allies.
of kindness and service will ripple outward and
blood, one purpose, and one Central Spirit.
post by post
An account of recent issues as told on Facebook
Rex Sarabia Good evening ladies and gentlemen, my bosses the
for the people. Yet at the height of finally unlocking the truth,
CPU studentry. A great crime against the studentry
material evidences that could point towards the answer were
was committed today. Earlier this day, the CPUR
taken. Significantly derailing the momentum of our crusade
President’s office was RAIDED. All the records, books and other evidences that could shed light on the allegations of
I am saddened by the thought that we have expectations
corrupt practices of the previous administration were taken by
that our officials should be the first to confront and engage
an identified malefactor.
these wrong doers in our community, yet it has been found that
I am shaken by this incident. It has been a long struggle for everyone to determine the truth in all these allegations
this man assists in the cover up of the crimes. Dear identified official, i will not state your name. I will
of corruption so that justice could be properly served for in
afford you time to speak your side. But please, return those
behalf of the studentry. A long struggle consisting of tireless
papers by Monday as you owe allegiance to the studentry you
investigation, evidence gathering, constant follow ups and
are serving. Not to whomever is trying to hide his tracks.
plenty of strife in between. All in the pursuit of impartial justice
22
against corruption.
Mga boss ko, ano ma hambal nyo?
An account of recent issues as told on Facebook
post by post
Bryan Eric Cerebo
J.e. Salarda
PART I of V:
Mr. Bryan Cerebo Dos,
I was happy that I have already graduated
Bryan Cerebo as a
ka T shirt bidder sa isa ka bidding
in the University where I once became its
Centralian w/ an average
event? Yes or no?
CPU Republic President. I thought I was entirely
IQ, all I can say is sa 5 ka articles
5. Gin suhulan ka bala sang isa
6. Ikaw bala ang mastermind sang
free to see the world with my present job but with
sang imu online speech nga gin
MAY RAID SCANDAL kung diin
what I have heard, I need to go back and break my
basa ko, u were not able to answer
gnapasuni nga nakuha ang mga
silence. I will be a hypocrite if I say I am not hurt,
even a single allegation thrown at
papeles nga ebidensya laban sa imu?
that we are not hurt. The truth is, we are deeply hurt
you.... The corruption issues could
Yes or no?
with the things going on around.
be answered w/ a simple “yes or
I would like to reiterate that it is not my
7. Tuod bala nga nagpagwa kamu
no” but you kept on saying that the
kwarta sa gintawag nio nga Xmas
habit to join “facebook wars” or heated exchange
liquidations were already w/ certain
fasHion show sa bulan sang marso?
of words of one camp against another. I don’t
officials, take notee that liquidations
Kag tuod bala nga ang kwarta sa
facebook my problems or answer allegations
could even be manipulated... The
PASHYUN SHOW ginbayad niyo sa
through online platforms.But since the people who
questions are very comprehensible
inyu utang? Yes or no?
brand themselves as “advocates” went beyond the
to the cognition of a Grade 6 pupil.
borderline, I was urged to speak even just for once.
1. May ara bala abuse sa pag gamit
8. Tuod bala nga nagpagwa kamu kwarta para sa League of governors?
I don’t hide. I don’t have anything to hide for I
sang CPUR funds pagpa BAGUIO
Kag ang kwarta nga ini ginbayad
did nothing wrong. Aside from the fact that I am
niyo? Yes or no?
niyo sa inyo utang? Tuod pa gd bala
already working right after graduation, I don’t buy
2. Nangutang or nag loan kamu
the procedure they command us to comply with,
bala because of financiall shortages
which likely a “trial for publicity”.
kag gin gamit niyo bala ang kwarta
I want to tell you of my observation over the issues which for us, is total exaggeration. The issues of corruption, abuse of CPUR funds and
nga may promisory note kamu sa inyu ginutangan? Yes or no? 9. Tuod bala nga gingasto niyo ang
sa estudyante para matabunan ini?
kwarta sang CPUR Office supplies
Yes or no?
nga 10K? Office supplies gd lang
3. Nagbakal ka bala bag-o nga
10 K gid, anu kamu adlaw adlaw ga
other “blings” started during the CPUR campaign.
furnitures, ginbaligya ang daan kag
photocopy? Ang 10K makapakaon
It increased in degree as the days got nearing the
ginbulsa ang benta? Yes or no?
na na tani 100 ka pulubi sang
election day. This was purportedly to dislodge our
4. Ngaa na late, wala na receive
party, Koalisyon’s standard bearer Tricia Gonzalez.
sang frat ang kwarta? Kung wala
dakbanwa sang Iloilo.... I’m not in any party but I would
Their accusations were mostly against me but they
kamu gnreklamo ginbalik niyo
be at peace if u can even just give a
have insisted Tricia to answer on my behalf and the
gid man bala ang kwarta kay Ms.
yes or no answer to these allegations
CPU Republic. After Tricia lost, have you observed
harder...? Yes or no?
may it be virtually or live...
that she is now removed from the equation? Now that a new set of officers of the CPU Republic already assumed office, the pressure was shifted on the shoulders of former Prime Minister and now Vice President Dojie Gumata. They even urged Dojie to resign to his present post.
*To read the rest of the posts and express your own opinion, search In The Dumps - the Central Echo on facebook and click join
23
MARCHING ON The brave few of CPU's ROTC
Words by Vivienne Songcayawon Photo by Jedrick Leighnoir Solinap
Gone are the days when male students were
forget that it is our responsibility to serve
the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps in their first two
and protect our country. But it seems like
years in college.
most of us are cowards and have turned our
Today, everyone is given the freedom to choose
back to this call. Still, I salute the few men
from the three components of the National Service
and women who took the courage to choose
Training Program (NSTP). Among Literacy Training
ROTC.
Service (LTS), Civic Welfare Training Service (CWTS)
24
As Filipino citizens, we should not
forced to undergo a two-year military training under
Early in the morning, during Saturdays,
and Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC), the
you’ll see the cadets forming their lines on
latter has the least number of enrollees here in CPU.
the big filed, clean cut hair for boys and
This is believed to be caused by misconceptions – that
neatly tucked hair for girls, caps on, nails
ROTC Officers are too strict (naka tiger look permi),
cut short, polished buckle belts, black socks,
that there is no room for mistakes in ROTC because
device tucked-in, shining combat boots and
every mistake corresponds to a punishment (push up
of course, a pistol belt on top of their green
or squat thrust?), and worst of all is that cadets are
fatigues, and carrying with them their
always placed under the scourging heat of the sun
wooden riffles. Missing or violating any of
(sayang ang gluta). Many are called but only few have
the above mentioned things will cause them
chosen to join.
to be sanctioned with a demerit.
“Pasulong, kad!”, commands the corps commander and there goes the battalion marching, looking good and snappy as they conquer the big field. But wait, ROTC is not just all marching and military training, they also give focus on theories and allot time for lectures every Saturday. Other activities of ROTC include the annual Presentation of Sponsor (POS) which creates a venue for cadet officers to socialize with their partners, Field Day which promotes teamwork and camaraderie among cadets, the Acquaintance and Christmas Parties to strengthen the bond between them and, Camp Tours which give cadets opportunities to visit the camp sites of the Philippine Army here in the province and give them first-hand experiences like actual rifle firing.
as FILIPINO CITIZENS, we sHould NEVER FORGET tHat It Is our RESPONSIBILITY
TO SERVE and Protect OUR COUNTRY
After an academic year or two semesters of being a cadet, students will be graduating from ROTC Basic Cadet Course and will be official reservists of the Philippine Army. Despite the small number of cadets, CPU ROTC Unit is still known as one of the best in Western Visayas. For the past years, it did not fail to bring honor to CPU. Last year’s batch of cadets were held as champion during the 6th RCDG ARESCOM Regional Annual Administrative and Tactical Inspection, A.Y. 13-14. Still continuing to retain the core values of ROTC - courage, integrity and loyalty - the goak of this year’s CPU ROTC Unit is to have more than 350 enrollees for them to be able to belong to Category A and compete during the National Annual Administrative and Tactical Inspection.
FIELDS OF B L O O D
as tHe case of tHe Fallen 44 unFolded before our very eyes, we saw a diFFerent set oF dialogues and monologues. aFter the bullets, the blames.
Remembering the fallen
Bangsamoro Basic Law. It has also led us to the
during the arrival honors is still despicable no
point of questioning the motives of the current
matter what. Ridon expressed that the absence of
administration. All these things, unfortunately,
the president “speaks volumes of the president’s
are gradually tearing this country apart, from
lack of basic respect for his servicemen.”
the deafening voices of opinions locking horns with each other, to the myriad of protests and demonstrations flooding the pavements of poorly-made streets. The Mamasapano Clash may have only
And things got even nastier when netizens joined in. But that was only the beginning of the president’s Calvary. As the Fallen 44 case intensified, many other cases sprouted out.
been a prelude to something worse. During
People began to blame the president for the
an inquiry at the House of Representatives,
entire mishap. Many other names were also
there were reports showing that the MILF
thrown into the cauldron, names like Napeñas,
used a ceasefire to recruit and train even more
Espina, and Purisima. There were even rumors
insurgents in anticipation that the peace talks
that the president didn’t immediately send
touched the soils of Barangay Tukanlipao that
would collapse. And where did the MILF get its
reinforcement to the SAF because he chose to
Sunday morning, three platoons of the Special
money to fund the said activities? According to
conserve the Bangsamoro Basic Law so that he
Armed Forces police squad cautiously made
some lawmakers, they may have gotten monetary
could attain a Nobel Peace Prize.
their way into an enclave where the insurgents
support from the P8.5 billion in DAP funds for
of Mamasapano, Maguindanao were believed to
the ARMM. Abakada Representative Jonathan
during the campaign period for the 2010
be in hiding. Their mission: to detain two high-
de la Cruz even opined that “the MILF was using
presidential elections, when Noynoy was happily
ranking Jemaah Islamiyah-affiliated, improvised-
government money to kill government forces.”
singing the song Estudyante Blues during one of
Words by Paul Mackey Marfil Art by Paul Christian Carbo Just before the sun’s light had barely
explosive-device experts—Zulkifli Abdhir, who
But maybe we’re just being paranoid, or
was also known as Marwan, and Abdul Basit
maybe we’re actually in real danger. Either
Usman. Shots were fired, and the man who was
way, we just don’t want to find ourselves in the
believed to be Marwan was killed. But upon
crosshairs of merciless men, be it from the rebels
hearing the staccato sound of roaring artilleries,
or from the government itself.
another group, led by Usman, attempted to
Blame game
counter. The clash endured for nine hours, from about four in the morning to just shortly after one in the afternoon. A haunting silence then
Ahhhh, I could still remember back then
their campaigns.
Ako ang nakikita Ako ang nasisisi Ako ang laging may kasalanan
A QUASI-METAPHOR But what if the encounter in Mamasapano
“So kasalanan ko na naman?”
was just a faint metaphor of what’s actually
As the case of the Fallen 44 unfolded before
happening in our country? Maybe the real
followed the encounter. And after four hours
our very eyes, we saw that a different, more
problem here is how we settle our differences,
of stillness, men from the Armed Forces of the
Shakespearean set of dialogues and monologues
how greed and lust for power can drive this
Philippines arrived at the scene, only to see a
were coming about. After the bullets, the blames.
country towards an abysmal downfall, and how
grotesque picture painted with the blood of men,
Upon hearing the news that the president
pride and nonchalance can rip us all apart. The
lying cold and lifeless amidst stalks of corn.
didn’t show up during the arrival honors for the
44 men who have fought in Mamasapano have
THE DOWNWARD SPIRAL
slain SAF commandos, many were outraged.
fought a good fight, and with their display of
And the fact that he was at a car inauguration
bravery, they deserve our respects. Maybe we
in Laguna at that same time made things even
are all just like them, fighting our own little yet
yields many questions. It opens doors to many
worse. To soften things up a bit, the Palace
significant battles for this country. We don’t
possibilities, both malicious and benign. It tickles
articulated that the president did not “skip” the
have to die like them, but we can have our own
our minds with an irritating itch that would
arrival honors because he was already scheduled
sacrifices. The 44 SAF commandos are gone, but
eventually persuade us to further scrutinize the
on that day to attend the inauguration of a
their names are forever etched in the annals of
hand that rocks the cradle of this country—the
Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Plant. They also
Philippine history.
government.
added that the president would visit the wake of
The death of the 44 SAF commandos
We may have lost only a few lives, but like an open wound, it is prone to infection. The demise of these 44 men has fanned the flames that would eventually heat up doubts and fears over the
the slain commandos, and that he would lead the necrological service. But according to Kabataan party-list Representative Terry Ridon, the absence of PNoy
In the end, maybe our country is like that cornfield where the SAF commandos were killed, and we’re given the choice to either stain it with more blood, or to revive it and nurture it.
War in
Peace How Bangsamoro hangs at the mercy of a single thread Words by Ron Adrian Dionaldo Art by Rhick Lars Albay
Miriam Coronel-Ferrer to clean up as they do
hearing of the BBL, stating that “We cannot, in
disintegrating, not to mention the burden of a
conscience, proceed with these hearings while
possible ouster on their shoulders.
a cloud of serious doubt hangs over the security
In 2012, when the Bangsamoro Framework
cannot be legislated under the threat of such
the anticipation that perhaps peace will finally
extreme violence.” of a single thread, threatening to fall off the edge
The Ceasefire Agreement that started in 1997
and into the abyss. Now both the Philippine
and all the failed and abolished agreements in
Government and MILF are challenged to
between were finally being put into a possible
continue to strive for this agreement with
and realistic document that could pave the way
unrelenting patience and mutual trust. Only
for peace in Mindanao. It was dubbed as P-Noy’s
then can they preserve the balance.
“legacy” project, expected to be implemented
freely respected. It is an insistent clamour to live
before the end of his term. structure of the Bangsamoro, while its
different times. But to the Bangsamoro people,
annexes lay down arrangements on power and
this struggle has dragged on for far too long.
wealth, as well as transitional mechanisms.
It took seventeen long years of tedious
Bangsamoro will enjoy an autonomous status
and erratic peace negotiations between the
although the Philippine Government will still
Philippine government and the Moro Islamic
have its reserved national power. The substate
Liberation Front (MILF) to draft and almost
will be given liberty to generate its own
complete the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL),
revenue, hold its own election, and administer
a framework document that, along with its
the Shari’ah law for Muslims. It is envisioned
annexes, will constitute the comprehensive
to be geographically larger than the ARMM. To top it all, a third-party international
political substate to replace the Autonomous
body will monitor the implementation
Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), which
and a transitional committee will oversee
was dubbed by the President himself as a “failed
normalization.
experiment.” However, this much awaited “peace” that our brothers in Mindanao were eagerly anticipating was shaken by the violent massacre
Despite this setback, the Bangsamoro Law paved the way forward to the road to peace. If
The BBL defines the powers and
struggle fought and won by different nations at
agreement. Bangsamoro will be considered a
Yes, the law presently hangs at the balance
will prevail where its predecessors have failed.
liberty, where lands, customs, and religions are without the threat of war or oppression. It is a
situation in the South. A peace agreement
was taking its first steps, everyone was eager with triumph. There was hope that Bangsamoro
Peace, ironically, is a struggle. It is a cry for
No wonder Senator Marcos postponed the
their best to save 17 years of hard work from
In short, the Law provides the resolution
It Has taken
17 long years of tedious and erratic negotiations to draft tHe
bangsamoro basic law
that will finally close the gap between the Muslim states and the rest of the nation. But now, with a dark cloud threatening to
it fails, at least peace was given a chance. If it succeeds, then the whole nation will roar to the
of the 44 Special Armed Forces at Mamasapano,
collapse from the sky, this hope was shaken, and
chorus of cheers and freedom. Regardless of
Maguindanao.
Bangsamoro was put to question and scrutiny.
the outcome, Bangsamoro will become a step
Will it solve this peace dilemma, or will it meet
stone of future agreements that will gradually
of the BBL was suspended, and Senators
the same fate of failure like all the other previous
unify and improve the country’s current divide.
Cayetano and Ejercito publicly withdrew as
agreements?
Bangsamoro will become a precedence of peace
In a span of a few hours, the public hearing
authors of the law. The Philippine National
For one, did either party fail to honor their
talks with the other remaining rebel groups,
Police and the MILF negotiators under
side of the agreement during the Mamasapano
until the islands of this nation become one in its
Mohagher Iqbal are struggling to put the pieces
clash? Why did the Philippine Government
entirety and culture.
together trying to figure out where exactly
execute an operation into hostile ground when,
The road to peace is never easy. It looks
everything went wrong. The President is under
amidst the ceasefire, the chance of a gun battle is
bleak, dangerous, and at times hopeless.
fire, and both the Houses of the Congress
close to inevitable? On the other hand, why was
Roadblocks and detours are expected, and
are at their heels holding together a country
Malaysian bomb expert and terrorist Marwan
certain sacrifices should be made. But as long as
threatening to fall apart from the South.
enjoying sanctuary in MILF territory in the first
there is a desire for peace, as long as the struggle
Meanwhile, Mindanao continues to bleed while
place? Now the media has named MILF and
is fought, as long as passion burns and trust is
the rest of the populace cry for justice for the
the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters, a
maintained, then the road of peace, no matter
fallen 44. This bloody mess has been left to
splinter group of the MILF itself, the suspects of
how difficult and less travelled, will endure to
peace negotiators Teresita Quintos-Deles and
the ambush.
go on.
29
e h t t a h W
e v a G
30
r e t a W
s U
How our country has always been at the mercy of the sea Words and Photos by Rhick Lars Albay In Visayan Mythology, Magwayen the formidable goddess of the waters and seas was also the deity of death and the underworld. Calm, vast and tranquil, but with the potential to raise violent hurricanes and cause widespread havoc when angered. She represented not only a caring mother, provider of plentiful harvests at sea and nurturer of livelihood and nourishment, but also a bringer of destruction, levelling villages to the ground with her waves and storms, swallowing whole towns with her floods. Often pictured as a beautiful woman in a gown that flows like streams and adorned with an elaborate crown of gold and jewels, Magwayen was also believed to be the ferrywoman of the dead, guiding souls to the watery depths of the ancient Visayan hell. She was both loved and feared, worshipped for her care and benevolence, feared for her ruthlessness and power. Magwayen’s rivers and shores allowed our ancestors to thrive and build growing communities and Barangays but with a snap of her fingers she could easily take it all away. This is a lesson we learned the hard way nearly two years ago, Yolanda ramming through our eastern coasts, the Filipino people unprepared for the calamities that were upon us.
31
As connections were gradually being rebuilt in the days after that unfortunate November day, and as news and communications started to trickle into the media, we found ourselves a nation united in awe. Shocked by the images flashed on our screens and saddened by the stories we heard and read about. Orphans roaming around in search of their families, body
our country is blessed wItH tHe generosity oF the sea, from our ancestors to today, we continue to reap tHe bounty of the ocean
bags lining the streets, a mother and child who hid inside a refrigerator thinking they’d be safe
The first step in the right direction is always
there found dead, mass graves, rampant looting,
education. Lack of disaster preparedness and
endless wreckage and chaos.
awareness is one of the reasons why typhoon after
You’d think a country that faces more than
typhoon continues to bring the Filipino people
twenty typhoons every year would be more or
to their knees. Citizens need to be properly
less used to these disasters, but used to it, we are
oriented on the steps that need to be undertaken
not. Every new hurricane still manages to catch
prior to storm signals, the kits and supplies that
should also be an integral part of our education
us unguarded. Sendong, Milenyo, Frank, the
need to be stored for emergencies, and how to
system. If taught at a young age the struggles
list goes on and on, each new typhoon serving
safely transfer to the mandatory evacuation
we’ll face with our climate growing more
a hard blow to the spirit of the Filipino people.
sites. The efficient dissemination of information
and more unpredictable, a new generation of
Thousands of casualties each year, but instead
and announcements could prevent hundreds of
environmentally-aware individuals could lead
of building better awareness among citizens and
deaths caused by ignorance and negligence. The
the way to preventing even more damage to our
owning up to their mistakes, politicians take to
internet has proven its worth in this area and text
eco-system.
pointing fingers after every national calamity,
messaging and local community disaster teams
not wanting to be weighed down by the blame
hold plenty of potential.
for masses of deaths and millions in property destroyed.
A stockpile of necessary relief goods should
Climate Change adaptation and mitigation
Lastly, we all need to have a hand in caring for our environment. At this point, every little contribution counts in stopping climate change.
be ready round the clock for easy distribution to
Recycle, conserve electricity, develop new and
the people in need. In past disasters, such cases
innovative ways to reduce the strain we put on
longest coastlines in the world, the ocean is a
have been reported wherein dehydration and
our earth. Pledge to help spread the need to
great source of our people’s livelihood and many
starvation in secluded areas after typhoons were
combat pollution, participate in restoring our
of our economy’s driving products are from the
the causes of death, and not the storm itself.
coastlines, and discourage actions that have
The Philippine archipelago has one of the
sea, tourism in our country is bolstered mainly
And most importantly, our national
damaging consequences to our environment.
by our numerous beaches. But we sit at a very
government needs to strengthen its resolve
precarious area, at the vanguard of the Pacific
and plan of action for calamities expected or
The Philippines is blessed with the
Ocean where most hurricanes originate and gain
not. Government channels have proven to be
generosity of the sea, we are the Pearl of the
momentum, our islands always in the path of
again and again slow and ineffective in times of
Orient, once called the land of the golden sunset,
storms and typhoons. Studies have shown that
emergency, a lack of coordination, coupled with
and our waters provide us with commerce,
we may not be among the top contributors to
party line conflicts and political favors being put
tourism, livelihood, and nourishment. From
climate change in the world, but we are one of
in to play, bring disaster relief operations to a
our ancestors to today, we continue to reap the
the most susceptible to its harmful effects. The
screeching halt. These trying times should not
bounty of the ocean. It is important we keep in
Super Typhoon used to be a rare occurrence, now
be viewed as a means to gain campaign leverage,
mind to take care of her, our waters, as she has
we are subjected to major Tropical Cyclone Alerts
instead it should foster unity and camaraderie in
done for us for all these years, because when
annually.
the service of the Filipino people.
angered, she can very easily take it all back.
32
33
Munting Hil ing
34
“ate, ate, gusto ko maging isang teacher paglaki ko”
Words by Micaela Allen Garcia Photos by Jedrick Leighnoir Solinap Unique Canonicato “Ate, Ate, gusto ko maging isang teacher paglaki ko,” ani ng isang batang musmos kasabay ang kaniyang munting paghila sa aking damit. Bakas ang ngiti sa mga labi ng mga kabataan kung makakakita sila ng mga ‘di pangkaraniwang tao sa kanilang lugar. Mga nakabihis pormal na malayo sa kanilang pananamit ang pag-akala nila sa amin na mga guro ang naging hangad din nila sa kinabukasan. Ang sabik na minsan na karamihan sa kanila’y nag-aasam din na magkaroon ng kaaya-ayang damit na maipagmalaki nila sana tuwing papasok sa eswela o ‘di kaya’y makikipagkita sa mga kalaro sa kapitbahay habang suot iyon. Ang sabik sana na minsan mo lamang masusulyapan sa arawaraw na paglakbay ng panahon.
35
kakapusan. Ito ang matIndIng salita na maaari lamang makapaglalarawan sa sitwasyon ng mga nakatIra sa brgy. north baluarte akong tuwa ang dala nito sa magulang ngunit
magulang. Hiling niya sana na marining
na maaari lamang makapaglalarawan sa
ng maitanong ko kung saan ang kanyang ina,
siya ng gobyerno na marami pa sana siyang
sitwasyon ng mga nakatira sa Brgy. North
simangot ang aking nasalamuha. Napagtanto
kasamang mga kabataan na makararanas ng
Baluarte kung saan maraming pangarap ang
ko nang ituro niya ang kanyang daliri sa
sagana ng edukasyon. Subalit habang paulit-
unti-unti nang naglalaho dahil nga sa salitang
direksyon kasalungat sa akin. Alas kuwatro pa
ulit niyang nakikita ang ina na nakapuwesto
kakapusan. Mahigit isang libo katao ang
lamang ng hapon at tila bakas din sa mukha
sa mesaing iyon, nabubura ang kagandahan at
naninirahan sa lugar at nakagugulat malaman
at katawan ng nanay ang kaniyang pagiging
kaliwanagan ng kaniyang ambisyon.
na kalahati ng populasyon ay mga kabataang
sugalera sa isang mesa malapit sa lugar na
edad 0 hanggang 16 anyos; kalahati ng
pinagtitipunan naming mga kabataan. Kita
kabataang nakasaksi sa kanilang sitwasyon,
populasyon na makakapaglunas ng problema
sa mukha ng paslit ang hiya na pagsusugal
“Sisisihin tayo ng gobyerno at ng ating pamilya
sana ng kasalukuyan.
ang mas inaatupag ng kaniyang ina kaysa na
na wala tayong marangal na trabaho na kung
salubungin siya na may halong yakap.
tutuusin sila ang mga nagdadamot sa amin
Kakapusan. Ito ang matinding salita
Nakagiginhawang isipin na may mga responsable pang mga magulang ngayon kahit
“ate, ate, paglaki ko, ako naman ang tutulong sa mga bata katulad ng ginagawa mo”
Ang tamis ng pakiramdam na sa
Sabi ng isang representative sa aming mga
nito.” Tunay na makahulugan ang mga salitang
iilan na lamang ang kusang nagpapadala
murang edad pa lamang ay nakakaintindi
ibinitiwan niya na kailanman nagbibigay
sa kanilang mga anak sa paaralan. Pero
na ang mga batang katulad ni Jascel sa mga
punto sa karamutan at korapsyon ng ating
nakalulungkot isipin na ang interes ng mga
problemang nagiging ugat ng kasiraan ng
bansa. Hindi man lahat ng nakatatanggap ng
magulang na ito sa pagpapadala sa kanilang
mga pangarap nila. ‘Di naman karamihan
edukasyon na dapat sana’y para sa lahat, pero
mga anak sa paaralan ay limitado. Limitado
ang nakakapaghanapbuhay sa mga taong
ang pag-asa na ipinapakita ng mga kabataan
kung saan hanggang elementarya o minsan sa
nakatira sa lugar. Yung iba’y nangingisda,
katulad ng munting hiling ni Jascel ang
hayskul lang makatapos ay ayos na.
nagiging kargador at karaniwan sa mga babae
siyang magiging lagusan patungo sa aming
ay nagtitinda ng kung anu-ano. Hindi sapat
pakikipaglaban para sa kanilang kinabukasan.
Nabanggaan ko ang isang batang babaeng pangalan niya’y si Jascel. Isang paslit
ang kita ng bawat pamilya kaya ang iba’y
“Ate, Ate, paglaki ko, ako naman ang
na kagagaling lamang ng eskwela suot ang
nalululong sa sugal at malala pa yung iba,
tutulong sa mga bata katulad ng ginagawa mo.”
punit-punit at gusot na gusot na uniporme.
naeengganyo na rin sa pagbebenta ng droga.
Hindi ako nagdalawang isip na tanungin siya
Kaawa-awa ang mga batang sana’y pag-asa ng
kung kamusta naman ang kaniyang pag-aaral.
bayan subalit isang paraan na rin sila bilang
Ginantihan niya ako ng ngiting hanggang
bugaw sa masasamang bisyo.
tenga at sinabing mabuti naman kasama ang
Napag-alaman ko na isa si Jascel
pag-alsa ng kanang kamay upang ipakita sa
sa sampung bata na naghahangad na
aking mukha ang tatlong bituing istamp sa
makapagtapos ng pag-aaral upang
mga nito. Bakas sa mukha ng munting bulilit
makapagtrabaho raw siya nang marangal
ang saya na siya’y pinarangalan sa klase. Tiyak
at hindi maitulad ang kaniyang sarili sa
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a neW HOMe The Many Colors of the Lanit Relocation Center Words by Rhick Lars Albay Photos by Chalcedon Sa単or
39
It’s a striking view from a distance, clean rows of brightly colored houses in alternating pastel hues, standing proud against the rice paddies that surround it. Up close you see how each house has a unique character of its own, with differently decorated porches, some with small gardens and patches of grass, others with picket fences and screen doors, there are even a few Sari-sari Stores and signs for businesses and livelihood: tailors, repairmen, food vendors. This fledgling new community has been named the Iloilo River Plains Subdivision and it houses Ilonggo families who used to be informal settlers around our city. In the past few years, we’ve seen the flourish and development of the Iloilo River, the introduction of the Iloilo River Esplanade - a park that runs along the length of the river, the construction of new ports and an effort to improve the ones we already have, a continuing endeavour to halt pollution, and most notably the removal of shanty houses and informal settlements that have clustered on different areas near the riverbanks of our city. Jojie Depita and her family of eight used to live at San Jose, Molo near the Old City Slaughterhouse and across the newly built Iloilo Medical City. There she and her husband, a laborer, struggled to find means to provide for their large family in a cramped and narrow house, raised out of the river’s grimy waters only by stilts. Manang Jojie and her family was first faced with the need to relocate in 2012 when it was announced that their humble dwelling was scheduled to be demolished. She had always feared that this day would come and try as they could, their meagre resources couldn’t survive the blow of losing a home. Luckily, they we’re given a chance to start anew, to be a recipient of the city’s newest housing project that catered to those displaced by the development of the Iloilo River. They were one of nearly a thousand other families given this new opportunity.
40
Her famIly was First Faced wItH tHe need to relocate wHen It was announced tHat their humble dwelling was scHeduled to be demolished
Though it’s been nearly two years since they transferred, Manang Jojie admits that each new day is still an adjustment process. Far from the bustle of the city and fare being expensive, her family and most other residents are wary of travelling from their community. This is why Jojie has decided to just watch over her children while her husband earns a living as a carpenter in the city. Many others report a difficulty in finding livelihood so far from Iloilo’s business hubs. The closest public school is in the next town, requiring children to travel by tricycle, but in most cases to walk, nearly a kilometre just to attend their classes during weekdays. For a time people feared using their areas’ deep well water supply, as it was reported to be contaminated. But most of these concerns have now been answered. An elementary school right at the center of the village is nearing completion, the community’s wells have been confirmed to be clean and safe for use, and a jeepney route that passes through the Lanit Relocation site is being pushed forward by the City Hall. Standing on 5.6 hectares of government owned land, the Lanit Relocation site is the fruit of the synergized efforts of several public offices, among them the National Housing Authority, the Iloilo City Hall, and the office of Senator Franklin Drilon. Built near the Iloilo Floodway and along the city’s new circumferential road, the area is serene and calm, but with signs of a promising future in the horizon. With new establishments planned and a booming new subdivision in the works, the area has the potential to become a thriving hub of activity. Lanit continues to flourish in all its bright color, the mere sight of it is enough to inspire the curiosity of any passer-by, and the families that call this their new home, nearly a thousand strong, make the village radiate even brighter.
41
if we
LittheUp Youth
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Words by Rhick Lars Albay & Verna Roz Taperla Photos by Chalcedon Sa単or
r Blazing the trail fo the Filipino Youth
43
44
Fuel to Fire There are three necessary components to start a fire – heat, oxygen, and fuel. A material, if exposed close enough to a source of heat, especially if there is fuel to serve as a catalyst, will undergo a chemical reaction called combustion. The sustained visible portion of this chain reaction is called the flame. Altogether, this burning substance would then be able in itself, to release heat, light, and even have the potential to cause other combustible material in proximity to erupt into flames. The youth is a good example of a highly combustible material, but of course not in the
hope and change can be lIkened to a growing Fire – fIrst a Feeble spark, next a Flickering Flame, tHen a mighty blaze
literal sense. We all have the potential to ignite a spark within us, to light a fire against adversity,
The Sangguniang Kabataan, the institution
to blaze a trail towards empowerment. But some
that is supposed to stand for and represent the
of us lack fuel – a drive to make a change, some
youth in the Local, even National government,
lack heat – an urgent calling, and the harsh
has instead become the breeding ground for
reality is that most of our country’s young lack
teenaged traditional politicians and the offspring
oxygen – the bare necessities to survive.
of political dynasties – their projects mostly
weak. We’ve been sidelined and relegated to the
Blaze the Trail The collective fire of the Filipino youth is
limited to Pageants and Pa-liga, doing very little
outskirts of nation building for so long that it
are vital to start a fire. How can you light up the
to uplift the current state of unawareness and
almost seems like we’ve all but lost the potential
youth when even just its components are so hard
uninvolvement of the youth.
to be the hope of our fatherland.
Heat, oxygen, and fuel - all three elements
achieve?
With the current harrowing state of our
Rizal once compared our freedom to
nation, the youth are supposed to be the beacon
fire, saying “The divine flame of thought is
of hope, a sign that there is progress to come,
inextinguishable in the Filipino people.” We
promising individuals that can lead us out of
have somewhat proven our hero’s words true -
this economic rut that the Philippines has been
as a nation, overcoming years of struggle and
populations in Southeast Asia, a large majority
suffering for a very long time. But how can the
emerging even stronger from the ashes every
of our country’s citizens falling between the ages
youth fulfil that promise when even they can
time. But the fire that burns within us all has
5 to 24 years old, our national median age being
barely scrape by. The poverty incidence in the
been stifled by decades of corruption, oppression,
23 – a significantly lower value as compared to
Youth sector is 20.9% and the value is increasing
and poverty.
that of other developing Asian countries, with
yearly. In Children the percentage is even higher
Singapore at 41 years, and Thailand at 33 years.
at 34.1%.
Sparks and Embers The Philippines has one of the youngest
This has been equated as a major economic
Education, a right of all Filipino citizens
It’s in times like this, one should remember – a light that goes out can be rekindled by a spark from another person. Much like how a single
advantage moving forward, with a growing
as mandated by the 1987 Constitution, has
burning candle can spread embers like wildfire
young labor force, the Philippines has great
become a privilege. Marred by corruption,
if given a chance, even a lone youth can make
potential for economic growth and development.
commercialization and an underfunded
a difference in this world, advocating greater
Rizal’s famous words – “the youth is the hope of
Department of Education, many are deprived of
progress, urging his peers stand for their rights,
the fatherland” – seems almost like a prophesy
the right to enrol and learn. The international
blazing a trail for generations to come.
waiting to be fulfilled, except that the latest
UNESCO standard is that atleast 6% of a
statistics point the other direction. An increased
country’s Gross Domestic Product should be
the youth, watchful of the elements that are
unemployment rate for fresh graduates has been
allotted for Education. The Philippines fall short
being forged together to raise them. At first, with
reported for 2015, and a significant rise in the
of this, at 2.9%, barely amounting to half of what
great care, like shielding a candle’s flame with
incidence of poverty in our country leads you to
is ideal to subsidize public education for all.
one’s hand to protect it from the occasional gust
One should be vigilant when lighting up
It’s estimated that 1 in every 8 Filipino
of wind, but then gradually fanning the flames
youth is deprived of schooling. With 36.23% of
encouraging them spread. After all, the youth
half of the Philippine population, labelled the
Filipino’s aged 6 to 24 declaring themselves as out
is the hope that will bring light to the world,
hope our country and the supposed driving force
of school youth, most citing insufficient family
holding our country’s greatest potential to achieve
that will lead our nation forward, we have very
income as a barrier to education. It’s not difficult
its goals. It’s high time we take matters into our
little say in the affairs and endeavours of our
to deduce why the power of the Filipino youth
own hands and begin the change ourselves.
country. Our politicians have done very little to
remains largely untapped, when even their basic
represent the youth sector in the government,
right to education is denied.
question if we truly are progressing. Though we, the youth, make up more than
with a select few lobbying for bills that truly
How can the youth spark change when they
Hope and change can be likened to a growing fire – first a feeble spark, next a flickering flame, then a mighty blaze, ever increasing
benefit us students and the underprivileged out
are weighed down by poverty, a lack of education,
intensity and power as more feed the flame. Let’s
of school youth.
and a lack of involvement?
light up the youth and start the chain reaction.
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BeHinD tHe curtainS Words by Paul Mackey Marfil
UNVEILING THE STORIES OF TEATRO, SINING, ATBP For most of us, performing onstage is one of the most difficult things to do. But for
ithem is the Dance Fashion, a movement presentation which emphasizes the importance of reuse, reduce, and recycle. But of course, the group isn’t only
some, it is their passion, their dream, their
bound within the perimeters of Central. It
ambition; the members of Teatro, Sining,
has had several collaborations with other
Atbp. are only some of the many who have
theatrical guilds like the Little Theatre
opted for the latter.
of the University of San Agustin. Its
It all started way back in April 1997
members were even invited by a national
when CPU acting president Juanito M.
theatre association to perform in one of
Acanto asked Mrs. Regina Ilagan-Pagunsan
its events.
to form a theatre guild that would promote
Like every other organization,
cultural awareness both inside and outside
Teatro, Sining, Atbp. also believes that
the university. This eventually led to the
moving forward is a key necessity for
birth of the CPU Theatre Guild. Auditions
a group’s success. When asked about
and screenings were then held to determine
what forward means, Cris Barredo, a
the members of the group, which was later
member of the group, said, “Forward
on renamed as Teatro, Sining, Atbp.
is moving ahead with faith in God and
Other than the organization’s aim
the perseverance to succeed without
to hone talents, it also strives to create
forgetting the path taken, the individuals
awareness among students regarding the
that help in small or big ways, and those
myriad of issues that plague the present
who lift you whenever you fall.”
generation. And of course, they usually do
You might see Teatro, Sining, Atbp.
this through creative, artistic, and aesthetic
as an organization that only performs
ways.
onstage. But their will and determination
The theatrical group also wants to
to use the arts to persuade us to make a
involve students in the different genres of
stand against pressing issues is a tell-tale
art, introducing them to the beauty and the
sign that the group is also triumphant
wonders of the craft and allowing them to be
in performing on a bigger, more crucial
trained in the different aspects of life.
stage—life.
The organization usually holds
After all, as what Shakespeare had
auditions every first semester for those who
said, “All the world’s a stage, and all the
are willing to join the group. And to hone
men and women merely players.”
its members’ skills, various workshops and trainings are being made.
46
Teatro, Sining, Atbp. carries out several programs every year. One of
47
Iya talks balancing the pressures of the stage and school, as well as her drive to walk on air 48
on
Pointe Words by Dazen Dawn Lariza
Although it was a struggle to Hair tied up in a tight bun, clad
balance these three important areas
in tights and a frilly skirt that dances
in her life, Iya kept moving forward
with her every pirouette and jette.
despite the obstacles she faced in
Toes on pointe, ready for the next
order to reach her dreams and make
dance routine.
her parents proud.
Yes. Ingrid Faye Astronomia
“Every challenge I experienced
(also known as Iya) is known for her
with my academics, every injury I
ballet numbers during various school
had during ballet rehearsals, and
events and her reign as Miss Central
every obstacle I faced in leading a
Philippine University Republic 2014-
student body kept moving forward,”
2015. But this dainty ballerina is more
she said, adding, “whenever I
than just a pretty face or a performer
thought of wanting to give up, I
on center stage.
always went back to the reason why
This Bachelor in Medical Laboratory Sciences (BMLS) fresh
I started doing all these.” She says that as a CPU
graduate is also a leader, having
graduate, having been in CPU since
served as the College of Arts and
kindergarten, she has always been
Sciences Council Governor for the
taught to face the pressures of life
School Year 2013-2014. She was the
with grace and to carry the values
last BMLS student to serve as CAS
that Centralian education has
governor because the following school
instilled in her as she moves along
year BMLS was transferred to the
the horizon of life.
College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences (CNAHS). “As a young girl I was trained to juggle school, ballet, and being
Now on a new chapter as a BMLS graduate, Iya continues to move forward with her dreams one step at a time, on pointe.
a student leader. All these three mattered even if I had to give up one to compensate the other two at certain times,” Iya said.
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Light up the youth Start n i a ch n o ti c rea the
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Photography
CHALCEDON SAﾃ前R JEDRICK LEIGHNOIR SOLINAP
Art Direction LEA PRODIGO
Models
INGRID FAYE ASTRONOMIA LOUVELLE GONZALES ARLEYSE ANN FERRER MA. JOLYN EMPEDRADO CRIS BARREDO JOCYL ANN BACHOCO
51
and when the moment comes that you should stumble and fall, the cheers will only get described as a wheel, a party, a circus. If you look at it, life can be described as almost anything imaginable. In fact, one illustration even had its roots founded Biblically. Life is a race. Cliché as it may sound, there is nothing else as apt as this definition. Whether we look at it spiritually or not, life is indeed a race. However, this
competition. Your life and everything within it is not a death-or-life struggle to win first prize. If that is so, why do we run? The Christian life teaches us that there is more to running the race than just plain winning.
WE RUN BECAUSE WE HAVE WITNESSES The book of Hebrews state that we are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses. A race will have an audience watching and cheering, and life’s race is no different than that. Every day, all our words and actions are being observed by people. We may not know it, but we influence people with whatever we do. A shy smile, a simple greeting—every act of kindness or word of encouragement sends cheers into the crowd. On the contrary, a lazy or spiteful runner will only get boos. Your life has influenced people more than you can imagine, and running the race has never been this critical. Danielle Laporte, a motivational speaker, once said, “Consider that you radiate. At all times. Consider that what you’re feeling right now is rippling outward into a field of is-ness that anyone can dip their oar into. You are felt. You are heard. You are seen. If you were not here, the world would be different. Because of your presence, the
52
up and run again.
a game, a highway,
race is not a mere
universe is expanding.”
louder. The watchers believe that you can stand
WE RUN BECAUSE WE DO NOT HAVE CHAINS Have you ever joined a marathon while wearing a backpack or carrying a water bottle. The added weight slows you down. Hebrews, again, was clear on that. “Let us throw off everything that hinders.” If your race seems so difficult, perhaps there are burdens still to be laid down. Sin that easily entangles. Worries that slowly sap your energy. What is it that hinders your race? It might be challenging to let go…grudges, insecurities, fears, fatal flaws…but if we hold on to these things, then the finish line will only move farther away. Heed apostle Paul’s words: “Forget what lies behind and reach forward to what lies ahead.” Only when we take off our chains will we be able to enjoy the race.
WE RUN BECAUSE WE DEFINE OUR GOAL Our finish line is eternity. That is the main reason why we run life’s race. To win an imperishable crown. Rick Warren, author of The Purpose Driven Life, said that “Our life here on earth is but a blink of an eye, but its consequences will last forever.” Wherever we start, whatever route we take, we finish at the same point. The eternal difference, therefore, is what we did along the way. Did we run with integrity or did we cheat? Did we try to pull back other runners or did we help them? Did we have fun or did we complain all the way? We will win life’s race not because of how fast we ran, but by how we run. Remember that nothing else will matter, because our race defines eternity. While you run this life’s spiritual race, consider the people watching, consider your chains, consider the goal. So run like one who will obtain the prize—not for fame or glory, but for faith and God, so that when you stand at journey’s end, you can tell yourself, “I have fought the good fight. I have finished the race. I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7)
Rome. Paris. London. Hawaii. Philippines. These are just some of the places that we only dream of going. The wanderlust in us itches to board the next flight to anywhere so we could just travel.
Words by Ron Adrian Dionaldo
Life has been
DeStinatiOnS
Words by Ron Adrian Dionaldo
WHen FiDeS runS tHe race
The audience watches you race, but what do you hear in the benches? Run like Christ,
Well, life is a lot like traveling. Instead of the usual plane tickets and bus fare we have our dreams that allow us to go to our destinations and instead of airplanes, trains and cars we have our choices to take us there. So simply put, if dreams and aspirations are the monetary value needed to travel and our choices are our mode of transportation then we have to be very careful or else we might end up in the wrong
destination. Right now we all have packed our bags and ready to board the next train towards our goals. But do we really get on the right train? I mean there are a lot of trains and what if there would be a mix-up along the way? You see the trains in our life only go in two directions, one towards the North and the other towards the South. The trains going North are called Diligence, Honesty, Compassion, Integrity, Obedience and Hardwork. These trains take you North, to the good life that awaits you. Their first stop is the College Diploma Station. Then next would be is your future self, 20 years from now probably you would be a Registered Nurse, Certified Public Accountant, a Licensed Civil Engineer or a full-fledged Teacher. The third stop is a happy and successful life. The trains that go South are called Vices, Lies, Distractions, Procrastination, Drugs and Disregard for life. They take you to the graveyard of all the broken hopes and dreams. They take you to Miseryville and Sad Town, the community where everybody feels useless and unfulfilled.
liFe is a lot like traveling, tHougH Instead of airplanes, trains and cars, it’s our choices tHat take us to our destination
eSSaYS
Now let’s get to know the passengers of the Northbound and Southbound trains, shall we? First off the Northbound, they are the kind of people who see the glass half full instead of half empty. They are very optimistic. They are smart people but no, not to be confused with nerds who are socially impaired. They are smart because mainly they are street-wise and study their lessons for the finals. They are the people with big hearts who would give as much as they could. They are the listeners, they listen not to what people command them to do rather they listen to their advices and discern which should be applied. Lastly, they are the happy people. The ones who have no room for hate in their hearts and have the widest smiles and the loudest laugh. Then we have the Southbound people. Don’t generalize, they are not the ones who smoke weed and drink on a daily basis although some of them do. You see some are in the closet. They are the procrastinators, the judgmental, arrogant, vain and conceited people. The ones who harbor hate deep in the blood filled pits of their hearts. The unforgiving and uncompassionate people.The ones who don’t care about anything anymore. The people who shout into the world “It’s my life. my choices.” They will yell “Shut up” at you for meddling with their lives. All of them riding different trains on to their separate ways. But at the end of the railroad, when life comes to a sudden halt you’ll find yourself going towards either one of the two destinations, Heaven or Hell. Now that’s why I said be careful of your choices you might end up with the wrong destination. But I also forgot to mention one special train that leads you to that everlasting paradise at the end of the railroad. This train is called Jesus Christ and only this train is bound for Heaven. Obedience, honesty, integrity will only take you to North not Heaven and all the Southbound trains lead you further away. So what train are you going to board today? Remember choose wisely, life isn’t an infinite railway you know.
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Dugo't pawis, buwis buhay
Para KaninO Ka BuMaBangOn? Words by Micaella Allen Garcia
likod nito kung bakit tayo one of a kind. Nagdodonate tayo ng dugo para
Alas kuwatro pa lamang ng umaga dagsaan na ang mga tao sa port upang
nagbibigay ng ekstrang income sa charity
makabenta ng isda. Sa kaparehong oras
para sa mga walang-wala, naglalaan ng
din naririnig mo na ang torotot ni manang
panahon sa mga taong akala nila’y kawalan
na nagtitinda ng pandesal. Langhap na rin
na ang pag-asa sa mundo, at naninilbihan
ang sarap ng kape na handa ng ating mga
tayo upang mapasagana lamang ang
lolo’t lola sa bahay. Ilang mga estudyante
buhay ng ibang tao. Hindi lang ito ang
na rin ang himbing pa sanang tulog ngunit
mga nagagawa ng ating kapwa para sa
binubulabog na ng tunog ng alarm clock,
kanilang kapwa. Iilan lamang ito sa mga
sinyales na ‘gising na at maghanda ka na para
nagpapasaludo sa atin mismo.
sa eskuwela’. Ilang manggagawa na rin sa
Dugo’t pawis, buwis buhay,
kani-kanilang opisina ang puyat sa overtime
sandamakmak na laway ang ginagamit para
pero kahit apat na oras lang ang tulog, gising
lamang maihayag sa lahat na handang-
na gising na para sa kanilang morning shift
handa sila sa mga panibagong hamon ng
upang makaserbisyo lamang sa publiko. Mga
kasalukuyan. Bawat isa’y kumokondisyon
manggagawa sa plaza, maglalako sa sidewalk,
para salubungin ang bagong hatid ng araw.
mananahi ng damit at may-ari ng tiyangge,
Para kanino ka bumabangon?
matang-mata na upang makapuwesto at
Isang pamilyar na linya na narinig na
hindi ang pagiging masipag, masigasig o maagap sa trabaHo ang nagIgIng dahilan kung bakit tayo umuusad
magbukas ng sariling paninda.Higit sa
natin noon sa isang patalastas sa telebisyon.
lahat ang mga ina ng karamihan, handa ng
Para kanino ka ba bumabangon? Itanong
maghain ng almusal, magplantsa ng mga
man natin ito sa mga kabataan ngayon
uniporme ng mga anak,maglaba, gumawa
malamang isasagot nila’y, para kay mama at
ng gawaing bahay at maghanda ng damit
papa. Itanong man ito sa mga manggagawa
kaunti, inaabuso na an gating pagkabuti,
nasusuoting ng kanilang mister para sa
ng isang kumpanya, ‘Ito’y para sa aking
payat na payat na tayo sa kakatrabaho,
trabaho.
pamilya na umaasang magkaroon ng
“PARA SA PAMILYA” pa rin ang kanilang
magandang buhay’. Itanong man ito sa
igaganting mga kataga sa lahat ng mga
ganyang katangi-an kaya hindi tayo
mga kumakayod sa daan para makabenta,
suliraning ito. Ang pagiging “selfless”
maiitsapuwera ng ibang bansa. Pero alam ng
malamang isasagot nila’y,’para sa anak kong
natin ang siyang nagwawagayway ng ating
karamihan na hindi ang pagiging masipag,
may sakit at nasa hospital na nag-aagaw
bandera para maipagsigawan nating lahat
masigasig o maagap sa trabaho ang nagiging
buhay’. Para kanino ang lahat ng ito na
na tayo ay hindi kaapi-api at tayo’y dapat
dahilan kung bakit tayo umuusad dito sa
kailangan kang gumising at salubungin ang
bigyang halaga.
Pilipinas pati na sa mga banyaga. Ito’y sa
buhay?
Tipikal sa ating mga Pilipino ang
54
makatulong sa mga nag-aagaw buhay,
dahilan na ang lahat ng sakripisyo na inaalay
Bilib na bilib sa atin ang ibang bansa
natin para kanino ang pangunahing rason sa
na sa halip na tayo ay kumikita lamang ng
Nasakop man tayo noon dahil sa ating mabuting ugali, naabuso rin tayo dahil hindi natin makayang nahihirapan
PaY it FOrWarD Words by Jeziel Vargas
ang ating mga pamilya, nasaktan tayo sa mga malupit na salita na nagdudulot sa atin ng sugat sa puso bitiw ng ibang
restore your faith in humanity
the same to make the world a better place. It was an assignment his Social studies teacher
makapangyarihan, pero hindi tayo nakalimot na may bukas pang dadating
deeds to three people and telling them to do
Try to imagine yourself stuck in a freak
gave him. In the middle of the movie the
kasama ang Diyos, para sa mga tao, para
car accident. You were bleeding profusely.
boy almost gave up on his concept because
sa mga bagay na ang buhay na ito ay hindi
Panic, fear coursing through your veins and
it all seemed to be a failed experiment.
kailanman bagay na sumuko.
you don’t know whether someone will come
Unknowingly, the effects of his actions have
to your rescue. Then comes a stranger, a
caused a ripple effect all the way across
na ang halos karamihan ng bagay dito sa
Good Samaritan who helps you. He takes you
America.
mundo. Mga gamit, mga imprastraktura,
to the nearest hospital and a few hours later
ang klima, ang panahon, istilo at kung anu-
you recover. You thank him for saving your
we are we live our lives selfishly. We are self-
ano pa, lahat ng ito’y mabilis ng nagbabago.
life and you ask him “However can I repay
centered human beings. All we think is about
Ang kasaysayan ay unti-unti ng naglalaho
you?” The stranger replies “Pay it forward.”
ourselves. We do things usually for what we
Nasa kasalukuyan na tayo, nag-iba
at nalilimutan. Pero ang buhay kung saan
Pay it forward. Simple enough right?
Whether we admit it or not, human as
could gain not so that we could help others.
natin ito inaalay sa kabila ng kung ano man
The concept of the whole pay it forward
But what if this concept could revolutionize
ang dulot nito sa atin, ang siyang kailanman
business is if someone shows you an act of
the way we think and live? What if like that
nananalaytay sa ating mga dugo.
kindness, as a sign of gratitude you don’t pay
innocent boy in the movie, what if we too
him back. Instead you do good deeds to three
would start our own Pay it forward chain?
mga ito sa bawat pagmulat ng ating mga
other people. Then you tell them to do the
It’s not that hard. We see many people who
mata. Hindi man natin alam o di tayo
same to three other people who need help
need our help everyday. We are just playing
nakakasiguro kung ano ang nasa hinaharap.
the most. It will create a Domino effect. The
blind and deaf to their needs; a classmate
Napagtanto man natin na darating ang
more people will be involved the bigger the
who needs help with her homework, an
araw na posibleng wala ng matitira sa atin.
effects would be. Come to think of it, it may
elderly carrying heavy loads or our parents
Pero ang importante lamang na ang buhay
cause the reinvention of a nation, probably
who try so hard to send us to school. We have
na mayroon tayo ay hindi natin inaangking
even the whole world. So who really started
a lot of opportunities to help everyday we
pansarili lamang kundi taos-puso nating
the whole “Pay it forward” thing anyway?
just don’t take the chance because we are too
Paulit-ulit lamang na nangyayari ang
ibinabahagi ito sa katuparan ng mga
Although the concept is relatively old
tired to go out of our ways. Why don’t we start now? Put down
pangarap at kinabukasan ng ating pamilya,
the phrase itself may have been coined by
kaibigan, kapwa, at ng iba pa.
Lily Hardy Hammond in her 1916 book
the magazine and look around you. Is there
In the Garden of Delight. The concept is
someone you see who needs help? Maybe
o “PARA SA WALA” ang lagda nitong
also illustrated in the movie Pay it Forward
it is a mundane task but if you help him or
kuwento kundi “PARA KAY” o “PARA
which is based on a novel of the same title by
her maybe it can be the start of the Pay It
KINA” ang diwa ng istoryang ito.
Catherine Ryan Hyde. The story is about a
Forward chain. That or you just gained a new
boy who has conceived the idea of doing good
friend.
Hindi “PARA SA AKIN LAMANG”
Para kanino ka kaya bumabangon?
55
t r a e H t e n u t OF FOring tell
fortunetelling and others such as tarot cards, horoscopes, palm readings, and séances, etc., are based on the concept that there’s no way to contact gods, spirits, or deceased loved ones that can give us advice and guidance. Others may see fortune telling as bogus
the future is in the palm of your hands Words by Katrina Mabanes Art by Allen Tabi If you were given a book with your entire
and mere intelligent guessing which are quite her father’s side is inclined to alternative healing. She, however, doesn’t want to have anything to do with alternative healing but she sees herself to be good at fortune telling. When Tita Wilma was asked what made her pursue fortune telling, she said it was because of the sound of cards flipping. She wasn’t really
life, from your birth to death, written on it, will
interested in playing cards because she thought
you read it? Why or why not?
people who play cards are gamblers and she
She sits across her customer- feeling her
didn’t like that. She, herself, didn’t also believe
vibration, reading her future. She tells her to
in her abilities until it became so apparent not
shuffle the cards on the table seven times. The
just to herself but also to her family. At first, she
customer did as she was told. And then the
denied everything she had foreseen and thought
customer is told to divide the cards into three
of them as mere coincidences until they all piled
parts and place them back on the table upside
up and she realized it’s undeniable anymore- she
down. Again, she did as told.
has the gift of fortune telling.
She flips the cards one by one. “Inday,
Fortune telling is the practice of seeing
hinayhinay kaw sa paghigugma. Kay kun indi, katatlo ka gid nga beses maduluan sang pangasawon.” (Miss, take time with your romance. Or else,
future events. Some are born with it and others
you’ll lose thrice your groom-to-be.)
and prepare for their future. Others seek help
After hearing a terrifying fortune, she bids the fortune teller goodbye and chooses to move forward no matter ‘what’ lies ahead. Whatever she says, scary or not, Tita Wilma*
gain this ability through studying. This has been widely used to help people solve their problems in order to prevent the misfortunes seen by the fortune teller. Yet according to Leviticus 20:27, “A man or a woman who is a medium or a necromancer
is often visited by those who want to take a sneak
shall surely be put to death. They shall be
peek on their future. She says she has this gift
stoned with stones; their blood shall be upon
since she was on her fifth grade. The family on
them.” These verses tell us that practices of
56
obvious to happen. For Tita Wilma, it depends upon the person which side to choose. According to her, if you stand by God and choose to help others, then it is good. She said that majority of her sightings are about relationship issues of an individual with his or her partner. “Basta ang importante nakabulig
ako.” But if you use such skill in a way that might hurt others, then you might be on the other side. And there is also one thing she stresses,
“Importante gid ang prayer.” She claims that her ability is a gift from God. She does not do any rituals or energy channeling before reading someone’s future. When asked from where she takes her strength, she knowingly nodded and pointed above. To believe or not to believe- the choice is yours. “Si God lang man gihapon ang makahambal
kung ano gid man.” Whatever the choice you make, it is still important to rely on your own skills and abilities, effort, and your dedication. After all, you are always going to be the master of your fate and the captain of your soul. The future is always going to be uncertain and every decision we make has little or lots of risks on it. But one thing is for sure: Trust God and everything will be all right.
*Name changed
a BrieF HiStOrY OF tHe
an evolution of vanity through pictures Words by Almina Marie Gange Verna Roz Taperla
SelFie
by Robert Cornelius, an amateur
and attachingie’s or some kind of vowelin the
chemist and photographer in
end. So, words like ‘tradeperson’, ‘barbecue’, and
Philadelphia. He took a picture of
‘Australian’ transformed into ‘tradie’, ‘barbie’, and
himself outside their family store,
‘Aussie’.
which was only possible after tiring preparations
The etymology of ‘selfie’ takes us back to
and scientific procedures. Whether or not
a guy named Nathan Hope. In 2002, Hopey
it is a selfie is debatable though, since some
(yes, he’s Australian) publicized the word ‘selfie’
professional photographers believe that Robert
because of an online conversation he’s had with
humanity. After all, humans regard themselves as
Cornelius had an assistant to help him make the
an anon in Dr. Karl Self-Serve Science Forum
a masterpiece of the Creator – they just couldn’t
actual exposure. Still, Cornelius’ photo with the
on the ABC. To satisfy the curiosity of some, the
get enough of themselves they might as well turn
tousled-hair look pretty much like the modern
phrase that it was first used in was, “And sorry
into flowers. Nowadays, this deadly sin has gotten
just-woke-up-and-I’m-in-front-of-our-house
about the focus, it was a selfie.”
a firmer hold on the souls of humans. And thanks
selfie, and therefore might as well count as one.
Vanity always has a strong grip on
to the advent of technology, it has crept its way
Cornelius’ method of taking photographs
However, it was not until 2004 when the #Selfie was used in Flickr. Jennifer Lee in 2011
into the lenses of the camera, and since then has
back then was exhausting and needed a lot of
then propagated the popularity of the hashtag in
lured humans into taking – yes, you guessed it – a
commitment, which not many modern humans
Instagram along with a picture of her loving her
selfie.
are fond of, and so photography developed
Anthro sweater. Because of the viral tendencies of
and became more advanced and convenient as
#Selfie and the fast-paced world of the internet,
befitting modern humans, however, even back
the years progressed. Polaroids and standard
the use of the word ‘selfie’ boosted up to an
when there were still no cameras, selfies already
cameras came into the picture and made photo-
astonishing 17,000% in 2012. By that time, selfie
abounded. At first, they were called self-portraits
developing easier. Now even ordinary people can
has taken the center stage and even the Oxford
in oil, watercolor, pencil, ink, and any other
capture moments and other interesting subjects
English Dictionary acknowledged it enough to
plausible medium. Of course, you must know
– like their faces. However, it was not until the
bestow upon it the title ‘Word of the Year’ and
how to paint in order to do so, which means only
existence of cameras in cellular phones that self-
officially added it in the list of scrabble-possible
those who were gifted with the talent to capture
photographs were finally perfected. Even Sharp
English words in 2013.
the beauty of nature found in the human face
in Japan created their camera-embedded phones
were lucky enough to satisfy their vanity. Some
in 2000 with tiny mirror-like panels beside the
thanks to social media,vanity, and the endless
of the famous painters who have done these so-
lens, so that maybe self-photographers could
human desire for attention and expression.
called antique selfies are Parmigianino, an Italian
position themselves better within the frame.
There are even inventions like the ‘selfie-sticks’
It might seem like a modern activity
painter in the 1500s and is regarded as the first
Because of the awesomeness of the human
Presently, selfies have continuously evolved
or ‘selfie-monopods’ to make easier the taking of
person to do a selfie; Rembrandt, who made a
mind, we obviously know already that technology
pictures at an arm’s length. It has also already
duck-face sketch of himself in 1630; Vincent
played a vital role in the existence of self-
inspired artists to make songs about it!
Van Gogh, who even made a colorful portrait
photography,but how about the origin of the
of himself sans an ear; and Frida Kahlo, the
word ‘selfie’? Did it just pop out of the mouth of
in the past few years, and there are still more
Original Queen of Selfies.
the first person in the middle of nowhere? The
Instagram-worthy stuff about it, but first – let me
answer mates: Australia, and the language of
take a selfie.
The first self-portrait photograph, however, was said to have been taken way back in 1839
The selfie has immensely captured humanity
its people that has a habit of shortening words
57
F O W IE NS V R E V IO AN ONNOVAT I
D E D A R G P U Nineties
The future looks so bright you just gotta wear your google shades
kids remember the brick game, and yet those born only less than two decades later remember the touch screen. When you think that the latest possible innovation has just been discovered, a new one sprouts
Eye Tribe If looks could kill, then this is that technology. Who needs a touch screen when you can simply control your phone with your eyes? Eye Tribe has created a system where users can
unexpectedly somewhere else. From 3D printing to
select an app or move the cursor with only their gaze.
Google glasses, our current era of technology rapidly
One popular feature is playing games, especially the
ushers to even greater glories, the succeeding years have
classic Fruit Ninja, allowing you to slice with only your
already unveiled a new breed of gadgets and ideas that
eyes. Though not new, future applications will obviously
are sure to keep your mouth gaping. Jaw, meet floor!
be too cool to miss.
The Mall of the World A climate controlled city. We’ve seen it in
Google Lunar XPrize Imagine a 30 million-dollar competition to
movies—a large transparent dome covering an
land a privately funded robot on the moon. Yes,
entire futuristic-looking metropolis. Forget the
it’s a literal space race with Google Lunar XPrize,
scary plotline, as this architectural dare has a
initiating the largest international lunar battle
hopefully happy ending.
among private teams to attempt a moon landing,
The Mall of the World will be Dubai’s latest ambitious feat of engineering. The complex will cover 48 million square feet and contain the
travel 500 meters with photos and data, and return to Earth safe and sound. The success will usher a new era of space
world’s largest shopping mall and indoor park, as
exploration after the last manned moon mission
well as countless hotels and districts, one of which
way back in 1972. And the $30M cash prize is a
recreates the world’s most famous landmarks.
deliberate limit so that future moon explorations
The city will be enclosed in a glass dome to control its temperature, making it a year-round
will be cost-efficient. As of June 2014, only 18 out of 30 initial
favorite destination. There is no official timetable
teams remain in the competition. With the cash
yet, so while investors meet and plan to construct
prize expiring on December 2015, the teams are
the Mall of the World, we can satisfy ourselves
rushing with tests and simulations to beat the
with our very own Mall of Asia. Not quite close
deadline. Those who prefer to remain in Earth’s
enough, but hey, it’s something.
safety, meanwhile, can sit back, watch the race, and probably wait for a space hotel to open in the
Smart Objects Smart phones, smart watches, smart packaging, smart glasses. There’s even a smart tissue box. With AI becoming more popular,
WHat’S aPP Your smartphone can be for more than just selfies and facebook, here's a few apps to help you get organized
Evernote Evernote is one of the most versatile free apps, enabling you to organize your notes, and great for short voice memos, reminders, and simple doodles. Enable sync and Evernote lets you access your data from any device including your laptop.
any.do There’s nothing more effective than the good old to-do list, Organize your tasks into groups like Assignments, Errands, as well as the time you need to complete them. The sleek and simple layout is easy to navigate. There’s nothing like the feeling of striking off a task off your to-do list
near future.
Virtual Gaming Razer’s Project Fiona had its spotlight, but
scientists are planning on more smart ideas like
now gaming is donning a new face, literally. The
an actual smart environment or automated home.
upcoming Oculus Rift is a virtual reality display
The possibilities are endless.Now you can move
mounted on your head, allowing you to completely
ala-Tony Stark and blurt out “JARVIS, where are
mentally dive into the game world with 360°
my clothes?” without looking crazy. If only they
viewing angle at high resolution. Couple this with
can find a way to make actual humans smarter,
third-party motion controllers like the Virtualizer
though…
treadmill, Control VR gloves, Leap Motion, or the PrioVR suit, and real-time gaming will change forever. Imagine playing a first-person shooter or a stealth game like a boss. Nothing else would be sweeter.
THE
Spend too much time on the Internet and you’ll dig out some pretty delicious bundles of Food Hacks on food blogs and websites. Some require the cooperation of the fastfood staff in preparing, but usually preparing these need a bit of discretion and covert ninja moves.Worry not, though, for these Food Hacks that we’ve tried are safe enough to be edible. Now, rediscover the scrumptious finds we’ve seen.
Words by Verna Roz Taperla Photos by Chalcedon Sañor
Land, Sea & Air Burger with Fries What to order: One solo order each of Filet-o-Fish, Regular Burger and Chicken Fillet. How to prepare: First, take your Regular McDonald’s Burger, scrape off the pickles because its overpowering aroma could drown out the other meats’ flavors, but if you love
The Upsized McLunch For lunch, you might decide on McDonald’s, however, you might change your
pickles, then leave it as is. After that, take your Filet-o-Fish, give away the buns to your friends or random-next-table neighbor, and stack the fillet above the burger patty. Finally, put in there your Chicken Fillet and top it with a handful of fries. This McDonald’s food hack from Huffpost.com is surely a satisfying full meal. The
mind from ordering the usual stuff to ordering
three kinds of meat will let you experience the culinary awesomeness the land, the sea and
the following monstrous and high-calorie
the air have to offer, hence, the name (well, chickens are not actually creatures of the air, but
table-top creations.
for the name’s sake). It could also be personalized and can be topped with other favorites, like potato fries, and maybe even pasta!
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The Twisted KFC Merienda It’s time for merienda, and you and your friends just happen to be in the mall. Why not go to KFC and enjoy some new ways of eating the usual side dishes? Yes, side dishes.
The Main Side Dish What to order: Order two servings of mashed potato, one serving of shredded corn (but you could just buy this outside if KFC
How to prepare: Put in first a layer of mashed potato on a bowl, stack in the fun shots, and top with corn and gravy. Who doesn’t love chicken? With this food hack creation, you could even enjoy it with another greattasting mush of carbohydrates. The savory goodness of the KFC fun shots compliment well with the comparatively bland mashed potatoes, and the gravy and corn just tie up the meal together. Shovel away and let the eyes of other diners dart your bowl of deliciousness with envy and
doesn’t have any), KFC Fun Shots or Flavored
curiosity.
Shots or Whatever-You-Call-It Shots, and lots
The French Fry Garden
of gravy which you could just get from the almighty gravy dispenser.
What to order: Order some fries of any serving size, depending on your French fry mood, a serving of coleslaw, and corn. How to prepare: The choice is yours when it comes to putting together this dish. You could pile the ingredients together or make a dip out of the coleslaw. Now this is really a fresh twist to your usual KFC menu. The fastfood taste from the French fries just go away when they are smothered with the coleslaw and corn. It almost gives off the gastronomic illusion that you are eating something healthy like a green salad.
The Nutella How to order: Order any size of Café Misto with a pump of hazelnut, a pump of chocolate, and a drizzle of caramel on top. The barista
Neapolitan Shake How to order:
The Cosmic Starbucks Chill-Out Ah yes. A good cup of coffee after a
might tell you that the caramel will sink to the
Order any size
bottom of the cup, but go along with it anyway
rewarding day is definitely comforting. If you
of Strawberries &
and say that you won’t mind.
want to have your fill of caffeine at Starbucks,
Cream Frappe with
then try out these three refreshing drinks that
vanilla bean powder
Buzzfeed taught us.
Ladies and Gentlemen, the Nutella in a steamy cup is served. With its nutty and
(or vanilla essence) and a
chocolatey taste, you’d actually think that you
pump of mocha.
are drinking the most coveted sweet spread
Satisfy your Neapolitan
there is. Sip more of this coffee and experience
Shake craving with this
what it’s like being on fluffy clouds. All Nutella
Starbucks version of the rainbow-filled drink.
lovers and will-be lovers should try this.
The luscious taste of strawberries with vanilla and mocha seem to transform into colors bursting in your mouth. You might even transform into Nyan Cat and fly through the star-filled universe and leave a rainbow trail. I
It sure is fun to experience preparing or ordering these food hacks, but it’s still better if you try to make creative combos yourself. Open up your mind and appetite to more choices that you could create, and don’t let the limited menu of the now convenient fastfood restaurants hinder your culinary innovations.
hope you know I’m kidding about the last part.
Blueberry Cheesecake How to order: Any size of iced White Chocolate Mocha with a pump of raspberry. The first sip may leave a bitter after taste, however, if you continue on enjoying the drink, you’ll find that the bitterness is replaced by a tandem of sweet and berry taste. Even if it’s actually raspberry that has been pumped in the drink and there is no actual cream cheese in the recipe, the taste is peculiarly similar to blueberry cheesecake. Alas! It is a magical drink that teases your taste buds.
61
HYPE
CE Weighs in on the latest releases
1000 Forms of Fear by Sia Review by Rhick Lars Albay Sia’s been gradually building a following these past few years, penning hits like Diamonds for Rihanna and appearing as a featured artist in numerous Top 10 songs. In 1000 Forms of Fear, her first solo venture since 2010,
62
Sia reveals that she may be slowly becoming a recognizable
How to get away with Murder Review by Rhick Lars Albay
crime thriller and legal drama, with an assortment of complex unpredictable characters. Taking top bill is Oscar-winner Viola Davis who plays the unflinching
ghost Stories by coldPlay Review by Patricia Labramonte In this spiritually driven
lawyer Annalise Keating, a flawed
album, the British rock band,
Shows time and time again - It all
anti-hero who herself has not
Coldplay, once again proved
starts with an unsolved crime. But
always fully complied with the law.
how music could portray such
How to Get Away with Murder
Accompanying her are the Keating
strong sentiments. Ghost Stories
turns this repetitive plotline on
Five, the best students from her
revolves around two major themes,
its heels, proving episode after
Criminal Law class who she has
mentioned by lead singer Chris
episode that you have yet to see
enlisted to work in her firm, and
Martin. It explores the idea of
anything like it and that it’s an
her assistants Frank Delfino
past actions, the effects that they
unpredictable thrill of a ride.
(Charlie Weber) and Bonnie
can have on your future and one’s
Winterbottom (Liza Weil).
capacity for Unconditional Love.
It’s a cliché recycled by TV
The first scene sets the stage for the entire series, our unlikely
Early on, their campus is
As for Chris Martin, “The idea
protagonists, a motley crew of
rocked by the disappearance
of Ghost Stories, for me, was “how
Law Students, in the middle of
of sorority girl Lila Stangard,
do you let the things that happen to
nowhere, arguing about how
unbeknownst to Annalise and
you in the past – your ghosts – how
they’re going to dispose of the dead
her associates, this will lead them
do you let them affect your present
body lying at their feet. Michaela
down a winding road of struggles
and your future?”.
Pratt (Aja Naomi King) and
and secrecy, all the while revisiting
Connor Walsh (Jack Falahee) both
the pasts they’ve all done their best
visibly on edge, are fidgeting and
to bury.
stammering. Wes Gibbins (Alfred
HTGAWM has proven to
Enoch) is surprisingly calm given
be a groundbreaking new series,
their circumstance and Laurel
offering fresh perspectives into the
Castillo (Karla Souza) is running
crime thriller genre, and shocking
possible outcomes in her head.
audiences with hair-raising
What do the four have in
reveals episode after episode.
common? They’re all taking
It’s unparalleled in its unique
the same Criminal Law class
storytelling, each new episode
at Middleton University under
though answering questions
the ruthless high profile defence
and gradually completing the
attorney, Annalise Keating (Viola
puzzle that is How to Get Away
Davis), who endearingly calls her
with Murder, opens even more
subject (you guessed it) How to
unfamiliar doors and mystery. You
Get Away with Murder.
won’t stop until you’ve watched the
HTGAWM is a fast-paced
entire first season.
name, but her artistry and unique
“Place your past into a book, Burn
voice remains untarnished.
the pages, let ‘em go”, all this
Opening with the soaring
building up to grand notes of the
Chandelier, the album is a moving
album’s last song Dressed in Black,
glance at Sia’s own struggle with
where she envisions her downfall.
fame, self-doubt, and loss. 1000
Sia continues to stun with her
Forms of Fear is, song after song,
poetic lyrics and unmatched voice,
an exploration of the different faces
enchanting us with standouts like
of panic and depression everyone
Fire Meets Gasoline where she
can feel from day to day.
likens love to being burnt alive,
In the her hit single
and the upbeat Free the Animal
Chandelier speaks of a night
singing of twisted ways she’ll
of drinks descending into self-
express herself to her better half.
destruction, in Fair Game she
All in all filled to the brim
likens her relationship to a fist
with genuine emotion, 1000 Forms
fight. Singing of pent up emotions
of Fear sets new ground for Sia’s
in Burn the Pages, Sia invites
meteoric rise.
And Ghost Stories was born,
Whiplash Review by Rhick Lars Albay An artist’s passion can be a
with its longing lyrics, unruffled and true sensations, it simply depicts how people feel in our chaotic world today. For a moment there, while listening to the album, you could float in your own world of stillness, shooting stars and affection lingering all together. Just your very own piece of paradise, this record will take you beyond reality and existence, which will likely be remembered as something transitional and noted that while being undoubtedly dense; it feels like a prologue to something better, something that one would always long for, a yearning for the truth, and a sound that one would always sink their soul into. And if that’s not something to adore, then I don’t know what is. For Ghost Stories track lists will always be considered as magic to the ears.
hurling chairs and instruments at students he no longer sees fit to join his band. Nonetheless, Neiman
very volatile emotion, it can both
wishes for nothing more than the
build them up and break them
approval of Fletcher and to claim
down, it can lead to greatness and
core drummer seat in the band.
prestige or heartbreaking downfall.
Leading up to their National Jazz
In Whiplash, Andrew
Competition, he faces Fletcher’s
Neiman, played by Miles Teller,
unrealistic expectations head-
is a talented drummer on his
on, bringing him to the brink of
freshmen year at the Shaffer
anguish, stress eating him up from
Conservatory of New York, and
the inside, his fingers literally
Terence Fletcher, the scowling
bleeding and overburdened.
J.K. Simmons, is his overbearing
J.K. Simmons is masterful
mentor. Fletcher renowned as the
in his portrayal of the destructive
conductor of the top studio band
Fletcher, showing a hard-edged
in the Conservatory, walks in on
and severe mentor with some
Neiman while he’s practising his
underlying insecurity just bubbling
drums alone after class. Seeing
beneath his surface. While Miles
Neiman’s potential, he enlists him
Teller is surprisingly adept as
to join his jazz group. But what at
the naive Neiman, taking on his
first seemed events too good to be
character’s passion and drive, often
true for Neiman, turn into a trying
bordering on compulsiveness and
ordeal that tests him to his limits.
obsession.
Fletcher proves to be an
Whiplash is an exhilarating
abusive teacher, pushing his
film from start to finish, with the
students to their breaking point all
dynamic of the young Miles Teller
for his own pursuit for perfection.
and J.K. Simmons pushing you on
He repeatedly insults his band
till the uncompromising finale. It
members, destroying their egos,
explores deeply an artist’s fervor
subjecting them to demanding
for his craft, making viewers ask
rehearsal schedules, hurting them
themselves – What am I truly
both physically and psychologically,
willing to put up with to achieve
even going as far as violently
success?
63
A 133-page book of Miriam
aimed at politicians and her
Defensor-Santiago’s sarcastic
enemies to cheesy pick-up lines
remarks, pick-up lines, jokes,
you could use to woo the girl of
speeches (and a copy of her
your dreams.
resume) and caricatures from the
The best part about this book
countries best young illustrators
is that it is not fiction so you can
such as CJ de Silva-Ong, Manix
actually skip pages whenever you
Abrera, Elberto Or, Rob Cham
feel like it or take a really, really,
and the likes, Stupid is Forever is
really long break (say a month)
sure to entertain your boring day.
and not feel like you’re missing out
And no. It does not include sparkly
on anything. Trust me, this book
vampires or a certain Mr. Someone
proves that size doesn’t matter as
by Miriam Defensor Santiago
who has sado-masochistic
it is sure to entertain you on your
tendencies.
short trips to the loo or a boat ride
Review by Dazen Lariza
six sections (Wicked, Asukal
“Kung asukal ka, ako naman ay sago. Wala akong kwenta kung wala ang tamis mo.”
Ka, Ako ay Sago, Death threats
soon. These babies are already
for Breakfast, Out-of-Notebook
running out of stock so be sure to
Experience, The Worst Thing
grab a copy while they’re around.
Stupid is Forever
Yes. Tita Miriam’s witty lines and comebacks are back and they’re just getting better.
The book is divided into
About Being Married, Miriam on
to who knows where. And you better grab a copy
This just goes to show that
Miriam) of her witty lines which
even our country’s politics has a
range from sarcastic remarks
funny side.
american Beauty/ american Psycho by Fall Out Boy Review by Rhick Lars Albay Fall Out Boy’s follow-up to the success of Save Rock and Roll has them up at arms and ready to conquer the airwaves. AB/AP is the band’s latest assault at Contemporary Rock, taking on a more modern sound, with soaring baselines and genrefusing productions, while hinting at sampling as Fall Out Boy’s new staple. Always the mainstream’s misfits, FOB’s new album expands on their previous material and takes them to new heights.
colorless tsukuru tazaki and his Years of Pilgrimage by Haruki Murakami Review by Paul Marfil If you’re looking for a good read that would take you on an emotional journey through both the
Top tracks include the band’s first single from the album
Centuries with its brooding edgy
How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful by Florence + the machine
tone that builds up to a stadium anthem chorus, and Fourth of July sampling indie artist Son Lux to achieve a pulsating anti-love song about old scars. But by a landslide the best track from AB/AP is the electrifying
Uma Thurman, an ode to the Quentin Tarantino muse, evidently inspired by her roles as the vengeful bride of the Kill Bill volumes and
Fast Tracks Delilah
The transcendent Florence +
Here are the standout tracks from some of the newest albums
The story revolves around a
single, is quickly becoming a fanfavorite. What starts as just Florence Welch’s haunting vocals against a swells to the thunderous chorus -
Fiction. Unexpectedly sampling the
“I never knew I was a dancer, till
Munsters theme song, the song is
Delilah showed me how” – soft piano
catchy and infinitely danceable.
notes giving way to stomping drums,
Fall Out Boy seems to be
Florence’s calm voice steadily soaring
gradually moving away from their
louder and higher, culminating to a
Punk Rock roots, but it’s a welcome
refrain that will compel fans to dance
change in the guise of American
like there’s no one looking.
Beauty / American Psycho.
Florence + the Machine proves that they are unparalleled when it comes to otherworldly music.
methodical and poetical manner,
1989 by Taylor Swift
interlacing metaphysical and
i Know Places
existential thoughts in way that would keep readers questioning
Oddly deep and haunting, I Know Places is a track you wouldn’t
life and all the pain and wonders it brings.
expect from this pop princess. In
Reading on, you might slowly
toned down whispers, Swift sings
feel very attached to Tsukuru. His
“They got their cages, they got their
grief slowly becomes your grief.
boxes, and guns” reaching a high as
His happiness slowly becomes your
she sings “I know places we won’t be
happiness. His fears slowly become
found, and they’ll be chasing their tails
your fears.
tryin’ to track us down”. It’s moving
Along the way, you might
and eerie at the same time. Bordering near alternative rock,
I Know Places sounds like it could
realism are being intertwined. But
easily be added to the The Hunger
since this is a Murakami novel,
single character, Tsukuru Tazaki.
expect some classical and jazz
Tazaki, who was deeply wounded
music being played, and a lot of
by his past, sets on an emotional
food preparation scenes.
journey to understand the truths
new LP, and Delilah, their latest
minimalist production, gradually
the alluring Mia Wallace in Pulp
real and the surreal, then this book read about weird dream sequences, by world-renowned novelist Haruki where bits of erotica and magical Murakami might be a good pick.
the Machine returns with an ethereal
Games soundtrack, with themes of oppression and secret sanctuaries in play. This just proves that Taylor Swift isn’t all bitter break-ups and star-
The main piece of music that
crossed lovers.
that were kept from him during his is being mentioned many times in adolescent years. His pilgrimage the novel is Franz Liszt’s Le Mal would eventually lead him to
Du Pays, a classical piano piece
discover the true reasons why he
that somehow reflects Tsukuru’s
was suddenly abandoned by his
the Pinkprint by nicki minaj Pills n Potions Dropping ill bombs
From the artist who’s more
feeling of abandonment and friends when they were still in their incompleteness. youth, and why he was experiencing All in all, Murakami crafts a
“But I still don’t wish death
popularly known for her over the
on ‘em, I just reflect on
top get-ups and overtly sexual songs,
such vividly surreal dreams.
beautifully written prose that delves
‘em”, over a clean 808 beat,
comes this stripped down and honest
deep into the fragile hearts of
and singing the dreamy
track. In Pills N Potions, Nicki raps
people. But you have to be warned,
hook - “I get high off your
about mending relationships and the
and ostracism, the book is also
for the ending of the story might
memory” - Pills N Potions
pitfalls of fame, showing that she can
praised for its beautifully written
surprise you with a terrifyingly
shows that there’s more to
be equal parts singer and MC, her
prose. Murakami’s writing style is
beautiful truth about the harsh
Nicki Minaj than just the
vocals unexpected untainted by auto
tantalizing; he weaves words in a
reality of life.
wigs and boot
tune.
But other than the Kafkaesque elements of isolation
THE PEOPLE POWER MONUMENT Built on Epifanio de los Santos Avenue, the very same highway that became the stage for one of the Philippines’ proudest moments, the People Power Monument commemorates the 1986 EDSA Revolution that triumphantly toppled the dictatorial regime of Marcos. This masterpiece by sculptor Eduardo Castrillo powerfully evokes the power of the masses, how in each and every one of us Filipinos is the potential to spark change, uphold our freedom, and strengthen our democracy.
“amerIcans lIke to tHInk we taught tHe fIlIPInos democracy. well, tonIgHt they are teaching the world” world - Bob Simon, CBS Anchorman, during their live coverage of the People Power Movement of 1986
ca He
We can an be Heroes eroes
Vic Aimee
Kat
Mina
Unique
Ron Keysi
Patricia
aY 2014-2015
editorial Board
Pao
Rhick Dazen
Verna
Ma’am Esther
Maf Ma’am Rea Cheat Sheet
From left to right – (First Row) Mariano Ponce, Francisco Balagtas, Apolinario Mabini, Marcelo H.
Jeddy
Mikie
Viv
Del Pilar, Josefa Llaness Escoda, Gabriela Silang,
Paul
Tandang Sora & Marcela Agoncillo (2nd Row) Emilio
Charles
Jacinto, Teresa Magbanua, Jacinto Zamora, Graciano López
Jaena
Agoncillo,
(3rd
Cory
Row) Julian Felipe, Teodoro
Aquino,
Lapu-Lapu,
Gregoria
De
Jesus, Gregorio Del Pilar, Jose Rizal, Ninoy Aquino
PaniPlat
An aircraft cuts through the azure sky, leaving behind a trail of white smoke lineS in tHe SKY Photo by Chalcedon Sa単or
A child playfully skims across the tiled floors of the Alumni Promenade Concert Park, somehow oblivious to the rising tension in the area a SHaDe OF innOcence Photo by Chalcedon Sa単or
A mother guides her child as they tread the grounds of a strawberry farm in Benguet HuMBle StePS Photo by Rhick Lars Albay
Catholics gather outside a church as they await for the priest to pass by and sprinkle holy water on their palm fronds tHe cOuntenance OF FaitH Photo by Chalcedon Sa単or
71
IN MEMORIAM
II have
REV. DR.
respect for the past,
Dad was a good teacher. I should know because I was EDWIN I. LARIZA but I'alsom one of his most pasaway and palaligoy students. He
moment.
1954 - 2015 person of the aa person
Padayon. It means to move forward and continue on. A legacy which my father, the late Edwin I. Lariza, has left behind to the people who knew him and who had been close to his heart. I’m going to say this really cliché line to which, I guess, everyone would agree to. My Dad was a great man and it is a privilege for me to tell everyone how great he was as my father. Dad was my superhero. He may not have super powers but he did all he could to fight for the rights of the repressed. He fought cancer and leukemia with a smile on his face and managed to make everyone believe that he was fine even when he was not. He handled all the pain of needles and tubes and his body giving up on him just to assure everyone that he was going to be ok. He was that strong.
PADAYON, his legacy will LIVE ON in the people he touched.
Illustration by Verna Roz Taperla
72
taught me lessons that one cannot learn in the classroom. He taught me how to see the goodness in other people and to keep serving them without asking for anything in return. He taught me to appreciate every moment and record it so I would have something to look at when I needed to recall memories. He taught me how to be a good daughter andAngelou a good Christian. He was the one who - Maya Angelou taught me that religion doesn’t matter as long as you worship and serve the same God and that religion cannot save you, your faith in God will. He taught me to respect both Catholics and Baptists and count them as one Christian body in communion with Jesus Christ.
Even in his deathbed I knew he was praying that God would lead me to the right people and the right friends who’d be there to comfort me and keep my path straight when he left. He wanted me to feel loved even when he was no longer there to give that love. Out of all the Dads in the world, God gave me the best and I will forever be grateful. I may not be the perfect daughter but to him I will always be the best. I did not lose a Dad. I gained a guardian who will always watch over me. He may no longer be with us but his legacy will live for others to remember: PADAYON. Padayon because it will live on even when he would no longer be alive to witness it.
Words by Dazen Dawn Lariza
onward upward and