The LaSallian September 2021 Issue

SINCE

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SEPTEMBER 18, 2021

B A S T I O N

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C R I T I C A L

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T H I N K I N G

Volume LX Number IX

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UNIVERSITY

VANGUARD

OPINION

MENAGERIE

SPORTS

Despite P683M deficit, DLSU foregoes another tuition increase

Can we fix it? The case for right to repair

Proximity to power

The uphill battle for safer spaces in academic institutions

The growth of individual sports in the Philippines

By promising pay raises while keeping tuition unchanged, DLSU may see its deep deficit swell even further.

This stringency takes away a customer’s right to repair—the ability to choose where and how they want to fix their broken devices.

As political figures begin to reveal their presidential ambitions, Office Manager Kim Balasabas implores readers to reevaluate what traits they need to look out for.

More than a year after the #DoBetter movement, justice remains elusive.

For many years, individual sports have not gotten the same recognition as popular team sports in the country.

Illustration by Yssa Surla University sectors were locked in a tug-of-war over whether to raise or retain DLSU’s tuition costs.

Despite P683M deficit, DLSU foregoes another tuition increase For the second year in a row, DLSU resolved not to push through with a tuition fee increase (TFI).

In a Help Desk Announcement last July 30, DLSU President Br. Raymundo Suplido FSC said that they decided to overturn the earlier approved 2.5-percent increase for Academic Year (AY) 2021-2022 to recognize the financial burden students and parents face in the ongoing pandemic.

Two months prior, the Multi-Sectoral Consultative Committee on Tuition Fees (MSCCTF) voted 3-2 in favor of an increase as representatives from the DLSU administration as well as faculty and employee groups pushed for an across-theboard (ATB) salary increase, while parents and student representatives stood firmly keeping educational fees down.

While the University conceded to the request for a zero TFI, they had nevertheless kept their promise of a salary increase—a winwin for all parties involved, except perhaps for the administration. Caught in a difficult balancing act, DLSU now finds itself striving to remain financially afloat while ensuring that students, faculty, and staff are able to tide the pandemic.

‘Absorb the difference’ DLSU felt its first major hit when the K-12 program launched in 2016 as enrollment numbers in its college programs dwindled, Vice Chancellor for Academics Dr. Robert Roleda says. By the end of AY 20182019, they fell into a deficit and were looking at a P297-million net loss. The University, however, was poised to recover, settling on a four-percent TFI for AY 2019-2020.

Then the COVID-19 pandemic struck.

NEWSBITS

Amid widespread lockdowns and difficult financial circumstances besetting many Filipinos, DLSU forewent the TFI and issued a seven-percent tuition rebate and 20-percent tuition discount during the second and third terms of AY 2019-2020, respectively. Further discounts were also rolled out in the AY that followed.

Roleda confirms to The LaSallian that these measures had compounded the University’s deficit, which Chief Finance Officer Ramon Trajano reveals has ballooned to P683 million by AY 2019-2020.

A data-driven fight Though the University is currently in the red, representatives from the University Student Government (USG) believe that DLSU can still rebound while in a zero-percent TFI scenario.

School of Economics Government President Zaniel Kekenusa, who co-authored the USG’s TFI proposal, explains that based on their model, which he says was similar to what was used under former USG President Lance Dela Cruz’s administration, DLSU will still be at a loss with a P200-million deficit in AY 2021-2022 but can expect a net income of P61 million by AY 2022-2023.

This is, however, under very specific conditions: enrollment rates would grow at five percent annually; salaries and benefits for faculty and non-teaching personnel would

grow at four percent; inflation would push the University’s expenses up by 2.5 percent in 2021 and 2022 and by three percent in 2023; and the TFI would remain at zero percent for the next two AYs. The proponents also did not consider any other sources of income, such as miscellaneous fees.

But promising financial projections was not their only crux; they had also conducted a survey to determine the student body’s income bracket classification and held focus group discussions (FGD) to paint a clearer picture of the on-the-ground situation.

About 59.5 percent of the 839 respondents in the USG’s survey reported being part of the middle class or lower, or having a monthly family income of P84,000 or less. Meanwhile, consolidated testimonies from FGDs uncovered students who saw their parents left jobless during the pandemic or struggled to keep up with rising costs and hospital fees.

“May level of detachment ‘yung administration from...seeing ‘yung mga struggling students,” argues Calvin Almazan, USG Office of the President Chief Policy Adviser and co-author of the TFI proposal.

This gap, he adds, is what led them to adopt more data-driven policies because they “would want to make them (DLSU administration) understand the students’ struggles in a language they know,” which is data.

Meanwhile, DLSU-Parents of University Students Organization President Dr. Felicitas Ducusin, who served as the presiding officer in the meetings, shares that while their sector’s decision to push for a zero-percent TFI did not

NCR opens COVID-19 vaccine pre-reg for minors

Meralco rates hike for sixth straight month

Hospital upgrade “provisionally” approved

“There is a lot to improve on when it comes to knowing the real situation of the students from the administration itself.”

Minors may now register to receive doses of the Moderna and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines in local government units in Metro Manila.

by Tia Mozelle Medalla, Frank Santiago, & Dustin Albert Sy With reports from Jan Emmanuel Alonzo

However, Roleda admits that the earlier agreed 2.5 percent is “not the ideal TFI.” “The University wants to keep the tuition fee increase as low as possible,” he maintains. He explains that if DLSU had strictly followed the Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) regulations that requires 70 percent of a planned tuition increase to stem from pay raises, a 2.5-percent salary increase would have actually translated to a 3.6-percent TFI. “The University decided to absorb the difference and just match the TFI with the ATB [salary increase].”

Meralco announced that its power rates are expected to increase by P0.1055 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) in September, bringing its overall rate to P9.1091 per kWh.

The upgrade and establishment of Department of Health hospitals have been “provisionally” approved by the Senate, awaiting approval from the Department of Budget and Management.

rely on surveys, their officers had discussions with USG President Maegan Ragudo.

Where to go from here Despite the hardships that all sectors are facing, Roleda is optimistic that the “rise in student enrollment” and lower tuition discounts for AY 2020-2021 will help the University recover. “We are hopeful that we will be able to return to pre K-12 enrollment levels by AY 2021-2022,” he says.

Almazan, meanwhile, relays that the USG has taken strides to help alleviate the pandemic’s financial burden on students, citing scholarship opportunities under the Office of the Executive Treasurer and lobbying efforts to remove the University’s auto-drop policy and reinstatement fee, the latter of which has already been realized.

But he acknowledges that more work needs to be done to get their message across to the administration. “There is a lot to improve on when it comes to knowing the real situation of the students from the administration itself,” he notes. “At the end of the day, what we want for them is to understand the student situation...With data-driven proposals, mas maiintindihan siya ng administration.”

The LaSallian had reached out to the Association of Faculty and Educators of DLSU Inc. (AFED) and the Employee Association (EA) for further comment on their stance in the TFI discussion. AFED has not responded for comment as of writing, while EA President Johnny Perez declined to give “courtesy [to] the other members of the MSCCTF.”

FAST NUMBER 13.5 million—A Social Weather Stations survey revealed that 13.5 million Filipinos were unemployed in the second quarter of 2021.

SEPTEMBER 17, 2021

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Section Editor: Frank Santiago

A ‘SUSTAINABLE’ STANDARD OF QUALITY

How DLSU emerged in global impact rankings How much of an effect can a higher educational institution (HEI) have toward sustainable development? That is perhaps the question Times Higher Education (THE) had in mind when it ushered in the University Impact Rankings in 2019, which the publication claims are the “only global performance tables that assess universities against the United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).”

by Warren Chua & Chloe Novenario

On the list’s inaugural year, DLSU found itself as the only Philippine institution to make the cut, garnering a place in the 301+ bracket. Two years later, the University remains a contender, sliding, however, to the 400-600 bracket. It also now shares the honor alongside five other Philippine educational institutions, namely Ateneo de Manila University, Mapua University, Tarlac Agricultural University, and the University of Santo Tomas.

But maintaining one’s spot on the list requires active participation, and for the past three years, DLSU has taken steps to retain its place among HEIs around the world.

SDG-based metrics To enter the impact rankings, interested institutions must submit data on at least four UN SDG areas, one of which has to be SDG 17, which is Partnerships for the Goals. THE explains in their methodology that they made SDG 17 mandatory as it served as a “meta-SDG”: collaborating with other organizations, the magazine says, “highlights the cooperation and publishing aspect of the goals.” If a school applies for more than three SDGs, THE will only consider the three best performing ones.

THE then employs a series of metrics and indicators, which are aligned to the UN Targets for the SDGs, to determine the score of each institution. The applying university must submit evidence to meet these criteria.

Once the data is obtained, the ratings are then constructed based on the weighted average of the three highest SDGs, each of which is given a weight of 26 percent, and SDG 17, which is given a weight of 22 percent.

Quality Assurance Office Director Dr. Gerardo Largoza notes that the whole process is straightforward: “The questionnaire basically dictates the measures.

And, in response, you just provide the best possible material.”

Arriving at which SDGs to submit for, however, was not as simple.

“It’s not so much a question of ‘What are the best things that the University did over the last two years?’” Largoza comments.

“It’s really…‘Which of our activities have had the greatest national/international impact with corresponding evidence to validate it?”

A document provided by Largoza to The LaSallian shows the three SDGs aside from SDG 17 that DLSU had performed best: SDG 6, or Clean Water and Sanitation; SDG 14, or Life Below Water; and SDG 16, or Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions.

For SDG 6, DLSU promoted its efforts to improve sewage treatment on campus and create guidelines on water conservation and management. The University also spotlighted its shore cleanup activities to enter SDG 14, while it noted the University Student Government’s constitutional revisions and DLSU’s voter education initiatives and KAMALAYAN forums to qualify for SDG 16.

Lastly, DLSU’s many linkages with non-governmental organizations, foreign

embassies, and local government units were put front and center for SDG 17.

ON THE LIST’S INAUGURAL YEAR, DLSU FOUND ITSELF AS THE ONLY PHILIPPINE INSTITUTION TO MAKE THE CUT, GARNERING A PLACE IN THE 301+ BRACKET.

Years in the making The University’s rise into the rankings has served a validation of the social engagement initiatives that it has undertaken for years. When the UN first introduced the SDGs in 2015, DLSU responded by launching the SDG Localization Project in 2016 and later forming the Lasallian Social Enterprise for Economic Development.

“We have been very consistent in making SDGs our primary anchor and framework of our engagement efforts,” Vice President Lasallian Mission Fritzie De Vera tells The LaSallian.

“We already localized SDGs in various local government units within the University community. We identify certain goals in the SDGs based on the needs of the community.”

The introduction of the impact rankings, then, have allowed universities to be recognized for these efforts. Largoza asserts that this is advantageous as it aligns with how society’s views toward universities have also changed over the years. According to him, HEIs are no longer expected to simply “regurgitate old knowledge and to pass it on to a new generation” but rather to play a more active role in solving local problems and enacting societal change.

“The idea that we finally have an instrument that looks specifically at the activities of universities in contributing to the SDGs is valuable in itself,” he further remarks.

No ‘rankings fever’ While some universities may divert their resources to boost their placement, Largoza assures that no such “rankings fever” is shared among DLSU administrators.

“When we do things in the University, they are driven by our Mission [and] Vision, our core strategies,” he maintains, noting that any consequential improvement in the rankings is only an added benefit. “There’s a clear example of how an obsession with rankings can distort a university’s priorities—I can say with certainty that no such thing is happening at DLSU.” However, Largoza notes that the rankings are still factored into the University’s internal targets as the school’s performance on the list helps “to expand our idea of the scope of activities that are considered important to society, to look for blind spots in our own activities, and to put pressure on us to faithfully document what we do.”

De Vera agrees with Largoza’s sentiments, highlighting that participating in these lists “gives us a better appreciation of how we make an impact to the community and the society in general.”

“Lasallian education is education for life: it is providing opportunities for personal transformation which will eventually lead to transformation of societies. THE Impact [Rankings] gives us an assessment of how we are doing in our mission and vision as a University,” she affirms.

by Arden Bacallan DLSU IS CONSISTENT in making the SDGs its “primary anchor and framework” for engagement efforts inside and outside the University.

UNIVERSITY

Layout by Maxine Lee & Sofia Placino

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by Eunice Uy Tan CSO STRUGGLES to keep up with the sudden increase in student-led activities brought about by the ease of submission of activity requirements.

Even after enacting process improvements, CSO still received backlash As the governing body of 51 organizations, the Council of Student Organizations (CSO) continues to develop its processes to ensure that their member organizations “can achieve optimum performance” with their flagship projects.

This includes their operations on activity approval and completion of requirements, which some students claim had been “excessive” due to tedious document reviews conducted by various signatories.

Now, the online shift has opened opportunities to improve the council’s practices, lessening needless requirements and simplifying document submission policies. And while the processes have eased up, concerns raised by supposed organization officers on the DLSU Freedom Wall Facebook page suggest that problems still abound.

Misalignments Some members of CSO-led organizations point out the slow approval process and the tedious back and forth when operations committees recheck their documents. According to Denise*, an officer of a CSO member organization, these could have been settled faster with better communication.

“Minsan when they (CSO) recheck it, iba na yung magche-check, so ibang mali na naman ‘yung makikita,” she laments. “They should talk with each other...kasi minsan ‘yung mga mali na nakikita hindi naman talaga siya mali.

Iba lang ‘yung pagkaka-interpret ng ibang tao.”

(Sometimes, revisions are conflicting because someone else rechecks the form. They should talk to one another because some revisions are not actually errors but rather a difference in interpretation.)

Denise further mentions how organizations arranged longer lead times to account for possible delays and to avoid demerits. For small activities under CSO, organizations would submit requirements at least two weeks before the event, whereas major events, which are reviewed by the Office of the Student Leadership Involvement, Formation and Empowerment (SLIFE), require a lead time of a month or even longer.

James*, another officer from another CSO-accredited organization, says that while he is satisfied with the current process, it can be frustrating at times whenever they receive a “questionable” pending status on the deliverables.

“These kinds of pends are somewhat a result of lack of transparency coming from CSO,” he opines, “as there were times when the comments that we received were the first time that we have heard of such rules.”

Addressing lapses As CSO operations moved online during the quarantine, submitting activity requirements became easier, which student groups took advantage of by organizing more events. This increase in volume doubled the amount of activities that both CSO and SLIFE needed to check, leading to what organizations felt was a slow approval process.

Outgoing 46th CSO Chairperson Angel Sesante discloses that their team has received “a lot more PPRs (project proposal forms) [per] day compared [to] when we still [had] face-to-face classes.”

by Rheine Noelle Requilman With reports from Sophia De Jesus

Above all, Sesante maintains that they aim to prioritize well-being by limiting each member’s workload, especially amid the pandemic.

Some of their backlogs, she reveals, stem from several pre-activity requirements that now go through them instead of SLIFE, adding to the increased workload from newly-accredited organizations.

“Our team sometimes experiences backlogs and failure to meet the lead time that we have set,” she explains. “We are currently looking at changing the lead time but as of now, no final decision has been made.”

While their executive board and executive committees have been conducting alignment meetings to resolve inconsistencies with their processes, Sesante notes these lapses cannot be completely eradicated as part of it boils down to “human error.”

“The Activity Processing and Screening and Activity Documentation and Management teams have made an internal consolidated list of pends, varying on if it is major or minor, to have a more objective means of checking,” the chairperson highlights. “It may not entirely eliminate human error from the equation, but it can reduce the subjectivity in activity approval as much as possible.”

Above all, Sesante maintains that they aim to prioritize well-being by limiting each member’s workload, especially amid the pandemic.

‘One CSO’ Despite the setbacks, CSO has stepped up in streamlining its operations this year, employing internal changes around the checking process with their committees. According to officers from

CSO member organizations, they were also provided with an activity reference guide containing the links, templates, and other resources needed for their accomplishment of deliverables.

To better the current system, Denise imparts that internal alignment within CSO and to the involved organization must be met to avoid any confusion, especially when revisions are to be made.

“I guess it’s just making sure that everyone is on the same page, giving out the same information,” she says, adding that communicating difficulties ahead of time can help them adjust accordingly.

Meanwhile, Cristine*, an executive officer for one of the CSO member organizations, suggests retaining “the opportunity to voice concerns” would be beneficial in aligning CSO with the rest of its member organizations. She cites the process orientation workshops previously arranged by the council can be conducted again to orient members should there be changes with the process.

As for complaints on social media pages, SLIFE Coordinator for Operations Lounelle Godinez encourages students to use proper channels when bringing up their concerns or queries around the processes as their office is always open to listen to suggestions.

“If they will just really come to us and tell us how we can improve, if they really have suggestions, we really appreciate those things...since they are part of the process [and] they participate in the process,” Godinez affirms.

Names with asterisks (*) are pseudonyms.

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Proximity to power In politics, nothing is permanent except greed.

Last September 8, the Cusi-led faction of PDP-Laban officially endorsed Senator Bong Go and President Rodrigo Duterte for the presidential and vice presidential spot. The rationale behind having an incumbent president and his former top aide turned senator run for the top executive positions, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi justifies, is to continue the “change” that was started. In his words, “Maipagpatuloy ang pagbabago.”

But what change was he referring to?

The 1987 constitutional framers gave the President a fixed term of six years as they argued that “six years were long enough for a good president to implement his program.”

Certainly, six years is more than enough time for Duterte to implement his platforms under his “Change is coming” slogan.

Yet years later, the country has changed—arguably for the worse.

Six years is more than enough time to implement lasting change. With the country’s resources literally at the administration’s disposal, it is headscratching that the Philippines is still in the current state it is in. With billions of pesos at their disposal and the faith of the Filipino on their shoulders, it is their duty to ensure the welfare of their citizens, yet our country is gasping for reprieve.

Extrajudicial killings, economic downturn, a lack of a coherent action plan to combat the coronavirus, and more maladies characterized the presidency of an incompetent leader. The Philippines is in a massive setback right now and giving

What the country needs is decisive leadership, not another attempt for power. another term to Duterte and his cronies “lead” and to “serve” the people means we are expecting another huge setback.

What the country needs is decisive leadership, not another attempt for power.

As the national elections loom closer and closer, it becomes more evident that many current officials would rather spend time

SEPTEMBER 18, 2021

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securing their seats than protecting the welfare of the people they serve. There is nothing stopping politicians from their national campaigns, but their leadership records indicate anything, it is that they do not deserve our vote of confidence.

But the burden does not fall only on a select few. This is a shared responsibility for every Filipino—registered, at least—to vote for the people who will actually lead this country.

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If he is referring to the dismal state of the Philippines brought by the Duterte administration then this should alarm the Filipino electorate to proactively mobilize this coming 2022 national elections.

For Senator Go, although he is in hot water for alleged corruption on various government deals, to gun for the top government position with no relevant leadership experience especially when the country needs a real leader to traverse the

A better president?

INCANDESCENT

T H I N K I N G

BY KIM BALASABAS

EDITORIAL BOARD Editor in Chief Associate Editor Managing Editor University Editor Menagerie Editor Vanguard Editor Sports Editor Photo Editor Art & Graphics Editor Layout Editor Web Editor Internal Development Manager Externals Manager Training Manager Office Manager

Sabrina Joyce Go Oliver Barrios Ana Mapa Frank Santiago Glenielle Geraldo Nanglihan Jasper Buan Diego Vergel de Dios Lauren Sason Jihan Marie Ferrer Alyssa Saludo Rafael Gabriel Arceo Miguel Kou Ana Mapa Ian Kevin Castro Kim Balasabas

UNIVERSITY Helen Saudi (Asst. Ed), Warren Chua, Isabela Marie Roque, Deo Cruzada, John Robert Lee, Jemimah Tan, Sophia De Jesus, Dustin Albert Sy, Jezah Mae Bagsit, Julianne Cayco, Chloe Novenario, Orville Apostol, Michele Gelvoleo, Barbara Desiree Gutierrez, Tia Mozelle Medalla, Rheine Noelle Requilman VANGUARD Eiji Sunagawa, Tiffany Blanquera, Bea Isabel Condes, Tommy Vasquez, Arianne Melendres, Cielo Bagnes, Gabrielle Lema MENAGERIE Magz Chin (Asst. Ed), Marie Angeli Peña, Catherine Estepa, Isabelle Yaun Santiago, Blair Clemente, Albert Bofill, Lance Spencer Yu, Angelo Emmanuel Fernandez, Criscela Ysabelle Racelis, Iona Gibbs, Marypaul Jostol, Alexandra Simone Enriquez, Bea Cruz, Alyssa Ann Dela Cruz, Andy Jaluague, Jamie Pauline Sanchez, Lizelle Villaflor, John Matthew Gan SPORTS Miguel Robles (Asst. Ed), Joaquim Antonio Arquelada (Asst. Ed), Jeremiah Dizon, Rain Leoncio, Drew Beltran Acierto, Arvin Marion Abaniel, Nico Meer, Annika Cañiza, Franz Aren Reyes, Gab Minamedez, Dayne Aduna, Tana Melgar ART & GRAPHICS Erika Ingalla (Asst. Ed), Addie Holgado (Asst. Ed), Pat Soriano (Asst. Ed), Ninna Manzano, Ruaina Moreno, Denika Layaoen, Yssa Surla, Casie Aviles, Kyana Ayahao, Eliana Fabia, Carl Denzyl Soriano, Alexandra Mangune, Sarah Chuang, Blaise Calpito, Kathleen Marasigan LAYOUT Hannah Franchesca Timoteo (Asst. Ed), Maren Rose Marasigan, Jacob Dy, Sofia Eloisa Placino, Jill Aycardo, Maxine Lee, Kyla Depante WEB Emmanuelle Castañeda (Asst. Ed.), Paolo Panlaqui, Alexa Lagman, Daniel Mercado, Beatrice Cabug, Elliamae Ang, Alyssa Casandra Wee, Claire Angeline Salen PHOTO Zoila Caga (Asst. Ed.), Enricko Montoya (Asst. Ed.), Ashley Go, Evan Olfato, Yvan Martinez, Enrique Manuel, John Amadora, Earl Arel, Anton Trivino, Justin To, Apa Reyta, Christian Segui, Nelcze Zulueta, Eunice Uy Tan, Nathan Velez EDITORS AT LARGE Arden Bacallan, Sofia Dimalanta, Yanna Zhang, Ramon Castañeda, Nikki Lacuna, Kyra Choa, Enrico Sebastian Salazar, Anakin Loewes Garcia, Jan Emmanuel Alonzo

FACULTY ADVISER Yellowbelle Duaqui DIRECTOR OF STUDENT MEDIA Franz Louise Santos STUDENT MEDIA COORDINATOR Jeanne Tan STUDENT MEDIA SECRETARY Ma. Manuela Agdeppa Student Media House, Fifth Floor Br. Connon Hall, De La Salle University, 2401 Taft Avenue, Manila 1004 5244611 loc. 701 info@thelasallian.com thelasallian.com All contributions are subject to editing for clarity or space. None of the contents of this publication may be reprinted without the expressed written permission of the Editorial Board.

volatile economic situation and create a strong pandemic response strategy takes a lot of guts.

Then let this administration be a cautionary tale to the indifferent, one way or another, an incompetent and corrupt government will continue to reign as long as the indifferent turn a blind eye to the reality of the pitiful state of the country. Duterte and his allies’ delusion to their proximity.

As President Rodrigo Duterte’s presidency comes to its penultimate moments, support for him has not faltered.

Recent approval ratings and preferential surveys for the top executive seats show favor for his administration, the Filipino admiration over him as strong as ever.

With less than 50 days before the filing of certificates of candidacy, many politicians have shown interest in or have been gaining support for a presidential and vice-presidential run, much to the distaste and fear of many.

Among these individuals are Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, former Duterte aide-turnedpolitician Sen. Bong Go, and presidential daughter and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte.

While it is unclear who Duterte will be giving his seal of approval to, a Duterte-Marcos tandem seems to be on the horizon under the endorsement of the ruling party PDP-Laban.

On the other hand, Moreno, who grew up as a celebrity plucked from the streets of Tondo, became a loyal vice mayor-turned-mayor who was always deemed to have deserved the spotlight and is now a strong contender for the chief executive position.

“Not another Duterte president,” his critics cry out at the prospect of allowing Duterte’s interests and brand of leadership to stay atop Malacañang Palace. But what is “another Duterte president”? There seem to be two kinds: the family, the friends, and the followers; and the “alternatives” who also capitalized on the same rise-from-nothing story as Duterte. The last time we voted for a “Duterte” president, we ended up with a fascist, misogynistic murderer.

But consider this: suppose there was a candidate that promises peace and quick fixes to the problems that continue to plague

RATHER THAN FOCUSING ON FINDING A PRESIDENT OPPOSITE OF DUTERTE, IT IS HIGH TIME TO RETHINK, PONDER ON, AND REFLECT ON WHAT EXACTLY WE NEED IN A BETTER ONE.

the country. A candidate that is decisive and will fill in the current administration’s potholes—one that is firm and strong and is straightforward and honest. A candidate that finally stands up against the elites with integrity in their stance and strength in their beliefs. Would you favor them? Who would fit such a description?

If you ask the electorate back in 2016, a sizable number of them would have said that that candidate was Duterte. And, if you ask the people now, at least according to the surveys, most will still say the same.

Duterte promised to end criminality— corruption and illegal drug trade—by six months into his term. He presented himself as the complete opposite of what former President Benigno Aquino III was. He was crass, irreverent, and apparently amusingly disrespectful to the powerful institutions holding the country together. He was an edgy kid at best and an anarchist at worst.

Despite all of that, he still won the seat at the Palace. If it worked in 2016, it may work again in 2022.

In our attempts to find a polar opposite to the current administration, there is an undeniable risk of ending up right back where we started—under the rule of a clueless outsider that turns to tyrannical tendencies to get by.

As Duterte’s presidency nears its end, with less than 50 days before the filing of certificates of candidacy, “not another Duterte president” must mean something more than what it seems like at face value. Rather than focusing on finding a president opposite of Duterte, it is high time to rethink, ponder on, and reflect on what exactly we need in a better one.

OPINION

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Finding her space SWEET DISPOSITION

BY ANA MAPA

“You played well—for a girl.” This was not what I had wanted to hear after a 90-minute game under the scorching heat.

It wasn’t the kind of praise that any athlete would have wanted to hear. Dangling at the end of the remark was an unwelcome yet familiar phrase. It glared and blared at me, as if being a girl was a permanent dampener on my abilities as an athlete.

This all began when I was absolutely mesmerized by the sport of football growing up. There seemed to be magic behind how the best players dominated the pitch with so much power. All around the world, people called it el jogo bonito or “the beautiful game”, and I completely understood why.

Despite the magnitude of the sport, football, in all of its glory, also happens to fall under the dreaded category of maledominated sports. When one thinks of the perfect footballer, their image of the ideal athlete is an Apollo-like figure—a man.

Everything around the sport, like many other

things in the world nowadays, is seemingly owned by men. I learned this the hard way when I began to train and play for my school.

It was never uncommon for schools to prioritize male sports programs, giving them bounds of both financial and moral support.

In my freshman year of high school, I still remember how the girls’ team had to settle for cheap, generic jerseys while the boys’ team had theirs tailor-made. It didn’t make a huge impact on how we performed, but it was still a textbook example of how differently women are treated in male-dominated sports.

For a sport where we had to shed the stereotype of girls being demure and passive, it was also a challenge to be comfortable with our femininity. I played football at a time where I was still coming to terms with how my body was changing and so did other girls my age. We couldn’t control how our bodies were taking shape or how we moved.

We cared more about making good plays, completing our passes, and not getting

fouled out. But somehow, the age-old adage of what it meant to look like a woman still loomed over us. On top of everything, we still had to bear with catcalls as we walked to games and unsolicited judgments on how we looked. We were meant to have fun playing; we shouldn’t have had to worry about getting too dark or wearing shorts that rode up when we sprinted. Boys our age never had those problems.

My younger self barely even knew who to look up to in the world of football. While young boys had so many players to idolize, I didn’t. The closest I had to a role model was a doll named “Get Real Girl Gabi”. She wasn’t like the usual blue-eyed, blonde-haired fashion dolls that I’d see in toy stores. She had brown eyes and brown hair. Her skin was the exact same color as mine, tanned from hours of playing football under the sun. Instead of a purse and a convertible, she came with a miniature backpack, a ball, and football cleats.

She wasn’t just someone I wanted to be, she

was someone I saw myself in—but she was just a doll.

All these frustrations continued as I dealt with comments about how I was either too girly to be playing the sport or too boyish to be seen as a young lady. The idea of women taking up space in the world of sports was as far-fetched as it could be. I was left thinking that the only space saved for me in the world of sports was on the couch beside my grandfather when we watched football games.

In my senior year, I left football for good. I gave away my cleats and kept my old jerseys hidden in the back of my closet. It took me time to make amends with the internal struggles that came with experiencing misogyny in a sport that I thought was a safe space for me. But I couldn’t have been more wrong about finding closure when I found myself bawling over the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

The sheer display of sportsmanship across different cultures was more than

enough to make any viewer teary-eyed. But what I found myself inconsolably sobbing over was the moment when Hidilyn Diaz clinched the historical gold medal in Women’s Weightlifting. It wasn’t just a win for the Philippines. It was a triumph for all Filipina athletes in male-dominated sports.

While the world fell in love with the likes of Nesthy Petecio, Margielyn Didal, Yuka Saso, and Bianca Pagdanganan, my heart went out to all the young girls watching these women perform to the best of their abilities. I knew that somewhere out there were young girls who were absolutely mesmerized by them and wanted to be like them too.

The world of sports won’t change overnight. But in the same way that Megan Rapinoe, my newest role model in the sport of football, celebrates her goals with outstretched arms and a proud stance, women will continue to take up space— one strong, empowered, and relentless girl at a time.

A disappointing reactive approach SUDO

BY RAFAEL GABRIEL ARCEO The administration’s focus toward eradicating the coronavirus seems to bank on the idea of vaccination and herd immunity. It is quite ironic then that the vaccination program in the Philippines is slow, confusing, and unorganized. The fault can be attributed to many factors, such as the scarcity of the vaccines, logistics, and other things that may be out of the administration’s control.

Though the emphasis, it seems like the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) took no urgency, as the country is still struggling to contain, track, and unify information in the country’s vaccination program. If the president

has been emphasizing the importance of vaccinations, why was the planning of the entire information system haphazardly put together?

Progress is being made, but this progress could have advanced sooner, saving time and eventually livelihoods.

Were the speeches of President Rodrigo Duterte not enough? He has emphasized how his pandemic response will hinge on vaccinations. Though not an

ideal plan, the urgency and forethought in managing a country-wide vaccination program should entail having a way to track and verify the vaccination status of each and every citizen. With a 46.6-billion budget, I would expect only the best thought, care, and analysis toward the system of our vaccination program. But, with what recent news have showcased, the DICT seems to have lagged behind.

Recently, the Hong Kong government declined the vaccination cards of several Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), barring them from traveling. Their reason for decline is that there is no available central database for all vaccination records.

Why? Because they have no way to verify

the integrity and authenticity of the vaccination card.

The administration responded reactively, stating that Hong Kong accepts the World Health Organization-recognized International Vaccine Certificate—yellow cards that they only started issuing by last month—at a cost. Aside from the P300 fee for the card itself, there is also an additional convenience fee. This convenience fee, according to PisoPay—the private company handling this process—is due to the internal maintenance of their systems which is understandable. A hearing will be held soon with regard to PisoPay’s reasoning of the convenience fee and overall background.

The DICT has also urged local government units to submit their own vaccination reports so that they may keep their system together. If the Philippines had this centralized database for the country’s vaccination developed earlier, the Filipino people, especially the OFWs, would not be put on hold again—they would not be in a position of further confusion, frustration, and hassle.

Progress is being made, but this progress could have advanced sooner, saving time and eventually livelihoods. But yet again, at the end of the day, the Filipino will have to wait, stay in-doors, and pray for an adequate pandemic response that may or may not come to be.

VANGUARD

SEPTEMBER 18, 2021

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Section Editor: Jasper Buan

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by Yvan Martinez

TREATISE

Can we fix it? The case for right to repair Electronic devices are a mainstay in our modern culture and society. We rely on them to wash our clothes, create documents, and entertain us. Yet, just like everything, electronics can, and will, break.

WITH THE UBIQUITY OF ELECTRONICS, a struggle brews between the public and tech companies about who gets to repair our devices.

by Tommy Vasquez

Unfortunately, repairing electronics yourself or at a local electronics shop is slowly becoming a pipe dream due to companies making device repairability increasingly difficult. Corporations like Tesla and John Deere oppose third-party repairs supposedly as a means to protect customers from data breaches or even subpar repairs that may damage their products.

This stringency takes away a customer’s right to repair—the ability to choose where and how they want to fix their broken devices. Other than limiting customer choice, companies and manufacturers have the final say on the types of services repair shops can provide and the prices they are charged for.

Apple is a prime example of a company that has been vocal in lobbying against thirdparty repairs for their devices and opposes the right to repair movement. While the company does provide an Independent Repair Provider Program that claims to certify independent repair shops and provide

them first-hand components, product schematics, and training, the specifics of the program imply otherwise.

Maddie Stone from Vice’s Motherboard as well as YouTuber and repair shop owner Louis Rossmann unveiled the true nature of Apple’s program. Some notable details they provided include the company conducting spontaneous audits and inspections with the intention of searching for “unauthorized” components and compelling shops to stipulate customer information including names, addresses, and phone numbers among other things.

It is already bad enough that Apple opposes the right to repair, but to intentionally go out of their way to conduct these practices is a whole other can of worms. Given how Apple openly expresses how important data privacy is, the aforementioned actions clearly go against their claims as well as the people that support their business.

Rossman also indicates how these certified shops are legally obligated to only perform repair services to iPhone screens and

batteries. This technicality virtually renders this program useless. Applying for the program essentially is a bad business decision as not only will Apple breach the privacy of shops and their customers, businesses can also lose money due to the limited amount of services they can offer.

While I have yet to experience the issue first-hand, a friend of mine named Marianne de Leon recently shared her experience with Apple’s repair services. A few weeks ago, she took her Airpods to the nearest shop with the intention to have them either checked or repaired. Unfortunately, the employees informed her that they would have to be diagnosed in Singapore for up to two months because the store was not equipped for such a task. Once they were returned, she was told that the broken component was only replaced with a working one, which should not have taken that long.

Moreover, not only are anti-rightto-repair practices harmful to customers and repair shops, they also harm the environment. Nudging customers to dispose

of their “unusable” devices only to purchase a new one drives unnecessary electronic waste.

Allowing consumers to have the right to repair can solve this issue by presenting them the option of replacing defunct parts instead of disposing of the entire—and mostly functional—device.

This now begs the question of whether or not we can fix this. The answer is yes. Many people, including Rossmann, have been fighting and advocating for the right to repair legislation in different states and countries.

In the United States (US), most of the 50 states have proposed legislation on the right to repair, with Massachusetts solidifying it as a law that tackles vehicle repairs. US President Joe Biden also voiced his support for this movement, calling out cell phone and tractor manufacturers to do their part in providing freedom to consumers. The European Commission is also advocating for new right to repair rules to be implemented this year for phones and tablets to ensure their functionality for a longer period of time before disposal.

While there are no specific laws protecting electronic gadget users in the Philippines, we do have similar laws that protect consumer’s freedom like Republic Act No. 10642, also known as the Philippine Lemon Law, that targets the automotive industry.

The lack of right-to-repair policies pertaining to electronics is rather shocking and disheartening. Given how the Philippines is a developing country, a large portion of the population do not have the luxury of replacing a semi-broken phone or computer given that the warranty has expired.

At the end of the day, we are the rightful owners of the products we buy. Bigname corporations should not be allowed to dictate how we use our devices and bully us into feeding their ever-growing hunger for monetary gain.

While I agree that making a profit should be any business’ priority, customer freedom and satisfaction should be of equal importance. If companies are able to control what we own, then are they really ours?

REIGNITING BROKEN LINES OF CONNECTION WITH NEUROPROSTHETIC LIMBS

by Gabrielle Lema

As you are reading this, be it on your smartphone or on a monitor, your hands transmit a constant stream of information about the outside world toward your brain.

For most of us, this is how it has always been. But what happens if that stream of information comes to a screeching halt?

Phantom limbs Losing a limb is a life-changing experience. Aside from not being able to do tasks the way one usually would, sensations of debilitating pain originating from your severed limb may keep you up at night.

Neurologists call this phantom limb syndrome, a condition where amputees can still sense the presence of their severed limb. Once thought of as a psychological issue, further medical research has shown that these sensations are produced by the ongoing activity of the nervous system.

In 2016, ETH Zürich Department of Health Sciences and Technology Professor Dr. Sanne Kikkert and her colleagues at the Hand and Brain Lab at Oxford University mapped the nerve signals of amputees throughout their entire body using ultrahigh resolution imaging. They revealed that rather than completely losing the flow of nerve impulses toward the severed limb, the brain somehow retained this continuous flow.

Bruno Herbelin, a researcher at the Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne in Switzerland, explains that because the brain does not immediately recognize the

For amputees, persons with limb differences, and persons living with paralysis, neuroprosthetics opens up new opportunities.

Illustration by Casie Aviles

complete loss of a limb, it does not cease trying to reach the parts of the body that are not there anymore, hence the continuous flow of nerve impulses.

The problem with this is the absence of feedback. “This is what causes neuropathic pain,” says Herbelin, explaining that the neurons that have suddenly been kept in the dark are awaiting a response.

Mind-machine interface This deprivation of sensory signals from the brain paved the way for neuroscientists and medical engineers to understand how the brain can rewire itself in response to new stimuli. Herbelin likens our brains to plastic as “they can adapt to

many things and [to] enormous change.”

Researchers like him postulate that underused connections in the brain start to appear when a limb is lost. Rather than allowing these connections to take over, neuroscientists and medical engineers have developed a neural interface that can tap into the nervous system and reignite the broken line of nerve streams.

Herbelin explains that for a neuroprosthetic limb to function, a neurostimulator is implanted in the target muscle to send electrical stimulation to the brain. Connected to this device are fine, hair-like wires that thread to the nerves that await a signal. With the development of this technology, the question of whether

the brain will accept and understand this new signal is raised.

“If you read the electromyography data (electrical activity produced) of the muscle activity, it’s pretty high and clear.

What we have simply done is to create a device which can read that activity on [the muscle] and convert it into a tool,” reassures Herbelin. This means that the neuroprosthetic not only allows your brain to receive information, but it also responds the way it naturally would.

Spinal stimulation Injury to any part of the spinal cord precludes nerve signals from passing through, making it arduous for doctors

to cure spinal damage such as lowerlimb paralysis, also known as paraplegia.

While the neuroprosthetic devices have yielded viable results in recovering sensory feedback in the lower limbs, only animal trials have been conducted.

But with the development of the neuroprosthetic interface, neuroscientists are now working on unveiling augmentations to neuroprosthesis in hopes of enabling people with paraplegia to walk again.

Herbelin explains that, unlike the neuroprosthetic limb, neurostimulators are implanted at any specific region of the spinal cord which is responsible for a certain action. In 2018, clinical trials were conducted on three paraplegic men by treating their spinal cord via electrical stimulation combined with physical therapy. This yielded positive results, allowing them some level of autonomy.

Transcending boundaries There will always be risks and hurdles when opening new doors to push past the boundaries of human capabilities.

Considering how vast the field of Neuroscience is, it is not surprising that neuroprosthetics and its adjacent methods are still climbing their way to the top.

Nevertheless, the accomplishments of the scientists and engineers behind these developments are indeed transforming the industry. This new wave of innovation only intensifies as scientists and engineers continue to bring the wonders of science fiction into reality.

SEPTEMBER 19, 2021

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Section Editor: Glenielle Geraldo Nanglihan

DEAD MAN’S LAND

WORD FOR WORD

THREAD BY THREAD

SEEKING JUSTICE

On the ground with environmental activists

Taking measure of the Filipino translation industry

An ode to the mananahi

The uphill battle for safer spaces in academic institutions

Dr. Karen Trinidad weaves the tangible and the intangible with Sports Psychology

Environmental defenders put everything on the line for their cause—even their lives.

The art of translating literature often reflects the cultural struggles of our country.

Communities turn to their local seamstresses for all their garment needs—their reputations built with trust, skill, and ingenuity.

More than a year after the #DoBetter movement, justice remains elusive.

Trinidad goes the extra mile in ensuring that athletes’ mental health is in top condition.

SEEKING JUSTICE

Illustration by Addie Holgado

Creating safe spaces in academic institutions entails that we go beyond just raising awareness.

The uphill battle for safer spaces in academic institutions Last June 2020, Miriam College High School came under fire after several cases of sexual harassment were uncovered, starting the #MCHSDoBetter hashtag.

Consequently, other educational institutions followed, and the #DoBetter movement trended on social media. These women, notably from prominent schools like St. Paul College Pasig, Marikina Science High School, and Ateneo de Manila Junior and Senior High school, bravely shared their own stories—demanding universities and schools to hold perpetrators and enablers accountable.

The movement prompted much needed conversations around rape culture and how we treat survivors. Many educational institutions pledged to implement more progressive policies, including DLSU. But, as proven by the recent developments in General Elections (GE) 2021, it is clear that the University’s battle to change a culture that tolerates and even normalizes sexual violence is far from over.

A paradigm of trauma Last year, The LaSallian talked to Galilee Tan, a former Lasallian who experienced sexual abuse from her exboyfriend, who was also her classmate at the time. Tan took to Twitter to explicitly narrate her experiences. “I’ve only gathered...the courage to talk about sexual

FLASHES OF BRILLIANCE

assault because I’ve seen others do so,” she shares. Coming to terms with the abuse was a grueling ordeal, especially since their relationship appeared fine on the outside.

But she found comfort in the support of her friends who believed her.

Emboldened, she formally filed a case against her abuser in the Student Discipline Formation Office (SDFO).

However, she found it a “stressful process” from the get-go, as the SDFO approached the case with “little sensitivity”. “It was extremely disrespectful and dehumanizing to get them to even consider the idea that [the abuser] needs to be accountable,” she laments.

Until now, Tan has received no updates regarding the progress of her case. She says, “It’s an understatement

If I were to sing a heart’s heavy burden, will it reach the ears of Immortality?

By Alyssa Ann Dela Cruz

Making space for progress The University Student Government (USG) successfully passed the Safe Spaces Act on November 6 of last year, aiming to counter the lack of a “codified policy to deal with [sexual harassment cases in the University],” shares former USG Chief Policy Advisor Marina Lim. The said policy strives to uphold the safety of survivors and victims and establish clear-cut criteria on what the University should consider sexual harassment and violence.

It mandates that sexual abuse cases be

handled by the Committee on Decorum and Investigation. “The processes for other cases being handled by the SDFO cannot be applied to sexual harassment and sexual assault cases,” asserts USG Vice President for External Affairs Cate Malig.

USG President Maegan Ragudo also highlights the policy’s emphasis on gender sensitivity training under the Lasallian Center for Inclusion, Diversity, and Wellbeing. “The goal was to include gender sensitivity training in our curriculum and in the activity manuals of our student organizations,” she explains, asserting the need for cultural and behavioral shifts.

However, transformative change is easier said than done, with Malig recalling that “the policy wasn’t a silver bullet.” “It took almost four terms for us to pass a

At the crossroads, I do not kiss you goodbye. I only look back.

My eyes shut. Automated voices echo in my head, a cacophony of goodbyes.

by Alexandra Simone Enriquez & Criscela Ysabelle Racelis

to say I’d rather be dead than go through their egregious and insensitive process [again].”

By Therese Genota

By Roni Margret Balde

policy that [should already be a] given in a University as ‘progressive’ as De La Salle University,” she laments. After all, the Safe Spaces Act is of little use if the people in charge do little to enact it.

Bursting epistemic bubbles Unfortunately, this institutional complicity in the silencing of victims stretches far beyond the University. It was October 15, 2019, when Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU) students protested against the administration’s inaction in the light of reports of a professor who made advances on a student. Jasmine Cruz, events coordinator of Time’s Up Ateneo, recalls this pivotal moment as the one that led to See Safer spaces, Page 5

You were a wish—a dandelion gone too soon.

By Alessandra Pauleen Gomez

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MENAGERIE

SEPTEMBER 19, 2021

SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY is an underrated yet crucial aspect of an athlete’s journey.

Dr. Karen Trinidad weaves the tangible and the intangible with Sports Psychology Sports is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. An athlete’s physical prowess may be more evident in competitions, but mental fortitude can also make or break a championship. Sadly, this reflects how psychology is often overlooked in sports and how this can have disastrous consequences.

In the Philippines, only a few universities offer Sports Psychology as an academic program. As a result, even fewer Filipinos pursue it as a career. Despite it being an uncommon branch, Dr. Karen Katrina Trinidad, Olympian Hidilyn Diaz’s mental coach, still chose to become a sports psychologist—finding herself at the vanguard of a fundamental shift in the field.

Passion in action Trinidad’s professional life revolves around Psychology, from being a faculty member under the University of Santo Tomas’ Department of Psychology to working as a consultant at the Philippine Sports Commission. Her fascination with Sports Psychology, however, started with her interest in treating sports professionals.

Trinidad has coached many of our country’s national athletes throughout the years. Being surrounded by individuals who perform seemingly superhuman feats regularly, “You will feel like you’re old because you are surrounded by exceptional people,” she jokes.

But the profession is more than just having front-row seats to exciting games.

Mental coaching requires intricate work and meticulous observations from the psychologist. One must thoroughly study the athlete’s cognition, emotions, and behavior throughout their performance, taking into account the most minute of details. “Just as physical fitness helps our bodies to stay strong, mental fitness helps us achieve and sustain a state of good mental health,” Trinidad advises.

Ins and outs The entire process surrounding mental coaching is a give-and-take.

Trinidad insists, “It’s very important to establish good rapport [with] an athlete so that you can design and adjust the program accordingly.” As such, successful sessions

by Albert Bofill & Kazandra Vargas Illustration by Eliana Fabia

only happen when both the psychologist and athlete are in sync—the athlete is willing to be assisted, and the psychologist is ready to accommodate.

Problems such as injuries, overtraining, and internal or external pressure can come to define an athlete. These are the cruxes that mental health coaches aim to resolve; after all, a sound mind opens the possibility for an even powerful body.

Many presume that athletes are immune to mental health issues due to their strong outward appearance and willpower.

But if Simone Biles’ withdrawal from the recently concluded 2020 Tokyo Olympics proved anything, it is that the discourse on athletes’ mental well-being has been long overdue. This conversation may not sit well with some, but Trinidad reminds that “Elite athletes are also vulnerable to mental health disorders as a result of the various stressors they experience in their sporting environment.”

According to her, “Aside from the fact that they trained several hours a day for one event, the Olympics is a competition of the best among the best.” Thus, the room for error is slim to none.

However, all the stress is replaced by fulfillment and joy when she sees the effect of helping an athlete reach their full potential, especially when her client achieves a new milestone or even by simply seeing them put her advice into action. “[It’s] fulfilling and [I’m] happy working because I know I can help athletes cope with [their] competitive fears,” she says.

The golden win Trinidad’s most recent accomplishment was being part of Team HD—the team that helped Hidilyn Diaz bag the first gold medal for the Philippines during the 2020 Olympics. Team HD is Diaz’s personal team of specialists focused on conditioning and preparing Diaz’s wellbeing for the Olympics.

Trinidad reveals that “we underwent a lot of assessment and adjustment with her mental skills, collaborating with other people who are of equal importance to the team.” Many meetings were held to

strategize the best course of action for Diaz. In the end, the Olympian’s historic performance was the fruit of the team’s dedication, determination, and bond. “It was not easy preparing for it for five years, but it [was] all worth it,” Trinidad declares.

Diaz winning the gold medal by lifting a combined weight of 224 kilograms—also setting a new Olympic record—was definitely a moment for the Philippines. Trinidad says it’s one of the most memorable things she treasures as a mental coach for many years. “When [I heard] the Philippine national anthem [being] played during the awarding ceremony of Ms. Hidilyn Diaz—priceless.”

Into the spotlight Despite the recent surge of interest in the field, Trinidad shares that sports psychologists in the country are few and far between. The lack of public knowledge on the field’s existence and the laborious journey of becoming a licensed expert all contribute to the diminished presence of Sports Psychology in the country—a sentiment echoed during the recent virtual Philippine Professional Sports Summit.

To make things worse, she is doubtful that most professional athletes in the Philippines prioritize hiring mental coaches, as there is still a deeply-rooted stigma around mental health.

However, Trinidad is optimistic that through Diaz’s triumph, the momentum will finally shift in Sports Psychology’s favor. “Diaz’s success showed the Philippines that to be successful [in sports], you need to have a Sports Science team with you because technically, sports is [a] science,” Trinidad remarks. This scientific approach may just be what most athletes need to emerge as champions.

More than just a means to help athletes and coaches achieve their full potential, Trinidad’s profession humanizes athletes so that people see them beyond their extraordinary abilities—turning their vulnerabilities and weaknesses into strengths that would help maximize their talents. Through Sports Psychology, Trinidad is hopeful that the once-pipe dreams of many Filipino athletes will soon be a reality.

MENAGERIE

Layout Editor: Alyssa Saludo

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Graphics by Nikki Lacuna, Pat Soriano, & Nelcze Zulueta

It’s a long road ahead for those who crusade for sustainable environmental policies.

DEAD MAN’S LAND

On the ground with environmental activists

The Philippines is renowned for its rich biodiversity, boasting around 240 protected areas of land and water. But all this is under threat as wide-scale infrastructure, modernization, and resource extraction displace indigenous peoples (IPs) and propel the encroaching climate emergency.

Moved by this purpose, environmental activists are on the frontlines, advocating for concrete policies and raising awareness to mitigate this threat. But aside from standing up for their stances, environmental activists are met with a far more dangerous fight— one that involves risks to their own lives.

A united front The scope of environmentalism is broad—it addresses multiple issues, easily overwhelming people. For Paula Bernasor, Visayas coordinator for The Climate Reality Project Philippines, her environmental awareness started at a young age when she survived the 1991 Ormoc flash flood. This inspired her to join the movement, focusing on marine life preservation.

With climate change affecting aquatic ecosystems, marine protected areas (MPAs) have to be legally established.

Bernasor works on many of these MPAs— conducting coral restorations, underwater clean-ups, and area assessments. However, she notices that there are “several lapses” from the local government units from the MPA she has visited, citing the lack of urgency in implementing environment protection policies.

Meanwhile, mining has long been an issue in the country. In 2004, former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ordered the revitalization of the mining industry in the Philippines, in which large-scale excavations of land and natural resources were widely permitted. Back then, Jaybee Garganera was part of a rural development non-

governmental organization that advocated for land reforms. He recalls farmer leaders telling him, “Lahat ng panalo natin sa land reform... at ‘yung mga [katutubong] nabigyan ng titulo ng lupaing ninuno [nila], malamang lahat ‘yan mawawala dahil papapasukin ‘yung malalaking mining company.”

(All our achievements in land reform… and indigenous peoples reclaiming their ancestral land will be for nothing when big mining companies are invited.)

This led Garganera to form Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM)—a coalition of over a hundred organizations that condemns the destruction of indigenous lands caused by large-scale mining projects. Now its National Coordinator, Garganera leads the organization in assisting communities and mobilizing with other environmental movements to propose better environmental policies.

Although environmental laws already exist, Garganera laments, “Ibang kwento ‘yung enforcement tsaka pagpapatupad,” as many areas remain inadequately protected.

(Enforcement and implementation are a different stories.)

Growing pains Unsurprisingly, Bernasor calls the government’s urgency on environmental issues “lousy”. “There are still a good number of questionable transactions being allowed by the government, from mining operations to reclamation projects,” she furthers, especially after the ban on new mining agreements in the country was lifted.

Garganera agrees, recalling an issue involving the Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) of a mining project.

Since an EIA is a requirement for all projects that will affect environmental quality, each one must be exhaustive. However, “Ang EIA na dapat sa Caraga (Administrative Region), kinopy na para sa [isang project sa]

by Magz Chin, Therese Genota, & Lizelle Villaflor

MIMAROPA; nakalimutang i-edit ‘yung mga pangalan ng lugar,” he exposes.

“Most of the threats to the environment come from capitalists and private organizations [who are] fixated on making the most profit.”

(An EIA for a project in Caraga (Administrative Region) was copied for a project in MIMAROPA; they forgot to edit the names of the places.)

Furthermore, the national coordinator cites the Green Thumb Coalition, a local organization that highlights its

Green Scorecard to prove the Duterte administration’s lapses. With the highest possible score of 10, the card sums up the average of nine categories to evaluate government response over the past year.

The administration’s performance in 2020 only averaged a mere 1.55, rating as a “dismal failure”. This score was a far cry from when the administration started, ”Medyo pasangawa pa, five pa [‘yung score].”

(It barely passed, the score was only five.)

It’s clear that economic development pushes the destruction of environmental property. “Most of the threats to the environment come from capitalists and private organizations [who are] fixated on making the most profit,” Bernasor points out. This focus on consumption, production, and profit without concern for third-party effects forms a vicious cycle that comes at the cost of our ecosystem. Unfortunately, this bitter clash between the environment and economic interests threatens to jeopardize and even take lives away.

Under pressure Some of the most intense clamors for proper enforcement of environmental laws come from IPs. Working closely with several indigenous communities, Garganera argues, “Ang lupa ay buhay at ang buhay ay ang lupa.”

(Land is life, and life is land.)

As such, environmental activists and IPs march together, criticizing massive government-sponsored infrastructure projects like the Kaliwa Dam and the Masbate Gold Project. In return, however, many are accused of being “antidevelopment” by pro-government groups, coupled with near-deadly repercussions.

The Philippines, according to Londonbased environmental organization Global Witness, is currently the second deadliest country in the world for environmental

defenders, with many being red-tagged, threatened, or killed.

Garganera knows the danger all too well. He was faced with threatening texts and phone calls, a voice on the other end saying they know his vehicle color, plate number, and the address where he lives. But he also warns, “Mas malaki ang risk kung... katutubo ka, lalo na nga tinitingnan ang katutubo na taga-recruit at sympathizer ng mga insurgents.”

(The risk is more significant if you’re part of an indigenous group, especially since IPs are seen as recruiters and sympathizers for insurgents.)

Rising above grassroots While environmental activists are at the frontlines of defense, it seems that government negligence and climate change are winning the battle. However, both coordinators remind us that it’s never too late to spark change.

For Bernasor, she suggests that change must come from the individual. “Think of yourself as an Earth storyteller,” she reminds.

From there, empowering environmental protectors on a national level is the next step forward. Garganera concurs, suggesting that a change in leadership, one “who will understand that the crisis goes beyond economics,” is necessary.

Both hope for a future where our environment will stand the test of time.

Garganera hopes that we continue to have “active engagements with the human rights community” in the fight to topple the exploitative system. With our future on the line, he reminds, “Hindi namin maipapanalo ‘yung laban sa community, or ‘yung pinaninindigan ng community, nang kami lang.”

(We can’t achieve the fight of the community or what they stand for if we’re on our own.)

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MENAGERIE

SEPTEMBER 19, 2021

THREAD BY THREAD

by Gilliane Luy

In a world of fast fashion, the mananahi stands out with their lovinglysewn and uniquely tailored pieces.

An ode to the mananahi Uniforms, dusters, patched holes, and sewn sleeves—hiding in between the threads of everyday clothes are the graceful skill and craftsmanship of the mananahi.

They are an indispensable facet in local communities with blushing brides-tobe, future prom queens, or really anyone looking for anything from a sharp suit to a costume flocking to their doors. Their years of experience handling the craft have amply awarded them with a distinct proficiency in putting design onto fabric.

Away from the fast fashion of overproduced store-bought clothes and the trendy private pleasure of do-it-yourself sewing, seamstresses who often lack formal training have long been materializing their perseverance, skill, and talent into people’s wardrobes. With the popularity of homemade sewing, The LaSallian takes a look at the quaint and humble businesses of small-town tailors with needles that never dulled and hands heartfelt with purpose.

Through the needle’s eye Juliana Dela Rosa recalls her experiences starting to sew at the young age of 16. Now 72, she cherishes her skill in tailoring, reminiscing about the time that she learned how to sew while doing work— sweeping outside a tailor shop for military uniforms. Little by little, she got into the craft. “Kasi pagka ginusto ng isang tao, may paraan. Talagang aano-hin mo na matuto ka,” she expounds.

(Because if a person wants to, there’s always a plan. You’ll really persevere to learn.)

The same goes for her sister-in-law, Luzviminda Vera Cunanan, who also started sewing at 16 for a barangay project. “Naisip ko na hindi naman po ako nakapag-aral. Kapag natuto ako manahi, kikita rin po ako ng pera...

Pagtanda ko, meron akong alam,” she shares.

(I thought, because I did not study, if I learned how to sew, I can earn money...When I am old, I will at least know something.)

Cunanan first learned how to tailor menswear but found joy in making women’s clothes. With her mother and sisters being seamstresses, too, the strong familial support fueled her love for the craft even more. Relying on their own intuition, the years have blessed self-taught seamstresses with experience that improves their craftsmanship with each body they clothe.

by Alexandra Simone Enriquez & Catherine Estepa

Heart sewn on their sleeves Seamstresses would work tirelessly from four in the morning until the wee hours of the night just to deliver their promise to complete an order before the deadline. This is their service to their communities—an obligation they happily embrace out of passion for the profession.

“Pinagpapahinga na ‘ko ng mga anak ko.

Sabi ko sa kanila, ‘Hayaan niyo na ‘ko. Dito ako masaya’,” expresses Dela Rosa.

(My children are already asking me to retire. But I told them, “Let me be. This is where I’m happy.”)

The value of their work certainly goes beyond tailoring everyday clothing for the average Filipino as well. The mananahi is also adept in tailoring other types of clothing and meeting bulk orders. Even without expertise in tailoring a particular kind of garment, seamstresses need only rely on their intuition to meet the requirements of their clients. Knowing this, the locals are assured that they can rely on the mananahi for whatever needlework they desire.

But if anything, it’s also the genuine commitment of seamstresses like Dela Rosa and Cunanan to fashion garments that seamlessly fit form and figure that attract most people to their craft. “Sasabihin ko sa kanila, ‘Pagagandahin ko kayo, pababatain ko kayo sa gagawin ko,’” Dela Rosa relays.

She says that it is by working earnestly that seamstresses like her can gain the trust of their customers.

(I’ll tell them, “I’ll make you look beautiful and young with my work.”)

Not cutting corners Even with the pandemic worsening in the country, it seems there is rarely a shortage in demand for the work of the mananahi. As Cunanan points out, with the population still enduring forced home-isolation arrangements, many have turned to online shopping as a form of pastime. However, seeing as the online platform cannot afford customers a chance to fit the apparel before purchase, people could only seek the help of the mananahi for repairs.

Indeed, these seamstresses have a certain acumen for sewing that could never even be replicated in the fast fashion industry. Cunanan has seen her fair share of clients lamenting over their struggle

with ill-fitting store-bought clothes.

As she recounts, “Dinadala nila dito ‘yung kanilang mga nabibili. Mura nga, pero ‘di naman maganda ‘yung tahi [at] tela nila.”

(My other customers would bring their store-bought clothes to me for repair.

Those clothes are affordable, but the tailoring and the fabric used are subpar.)

Although her fear of the virus remains, Dela Rosa was convinced she had to reopen her shop last November for the sake of her loyal customers. Since then, it’s been business as usual. “Kami na ang sumusuko din sa trabaho,” she exclaims.

(We already have to turn down work.)

But even on days when business is slow, Cunanan keeps herself productive by sewing ready-to-wear ternos, curtains, and cushions that she can later on sell to interested buyers. As she says, seeing her customers appreciate her works is one of the joys that she finds in being a mananahi.

This is what motivates her to keep sewing, pandemic or not.

Finishing the seams “Ang hindi lang namin natatahi ay tao, pero lahat ng [klaseng] damit nagagawa namin,” Dela Rosa states.

(The only thing I can’t sew is a human but all the types of clothing we can make.)

Despite the years, the joy of working as a seamstress never tarnishes for the likes of the sisters-in-law, as Cunanan adds, “Kaya ako masaya, kapag nalapatan ko ‘yung isang tao, tuwang-tuwa sila at bumabalik ulit.”

(I am happy because when I make a perfect fit, my customers are happy and they come back.)

Having to spend their lives stitching a community together, Cunanan and Dela Rosa enthusiastically hope that future generations will also discover the wonders of sewing. “Kahit na degree holder sila or hindi [sila marunong magtahi], or may hilig sila sa fashion designing, mapapagkitaan nila ‘yan,” Dela Rosa encourages.

(Even though they are degree holders or not, or they don’t sew, or they are interested in fashion designing, they’ll earn from it.)

Coming from a family of seamstresses, both Cunanan and Dela Rosa hope that they can pass the needle on to their children. But until they tie their final knots, they remain ardent in embroidering love to their community, one garment at a time.

MENAGERIE

Layout by Jill Aycardo & Alyssa Saludo

5

WORD FOR WORD Filipino translators have to capture the richness, nuance, and context of the original text.

Illustration by Addie Holgado

Taking measure of the Filipino translation industry

Perhaps it doesn’t come as a surprise to anyone that the Holy Bible is the most widely translated book in the world. By the 20th century, portions of it had been translated into 3,384 languages. As Jean-Claude Loba-Mkole wrote in his paper History And Theory Of Scripture Translations, “From a historical perspective, it rightly can be argued that Christianity owes its very being to translations.”

Filipinos’ familiarity with the English language has made the country an attractive market for English books. We have long since practiced translating classics from the likes of William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, and Ernest Hemingway into Filipino, producing often cheaper variations found in common bookstore chains. In the 2000s, popular Young Adult hits like Twilight and The Fault in Our Stars hit the shelves, broadening the accessibility of Filipino-translated books.

However, the translation industry is far from perfect—with the practice itself raising questions about cultural identity and colonial nuances.

Lost (and found) in translation While she is no stranger to penning novels, translating English books to Filipino is a whole new world for Luna Siclat Cleto, author and professor at the University of the Philippines Diliman Filipino and Philippine Literature Department.

Every day, she would sit in a corner in the faculty center with a view and work on the manuscripts throughout the afternoon.

She’d get to know the characters intimately, like when she translated John Green’s An Abundance of Katherines. “I saw how interesting the characters were...The protagonist was a nerd, but a likable one...

Naka-relate ako doon,” Cleto narrates.

(I related to that.)

She also translated Veronica Roth’s Divergent trilogy. This time, Cleto had to immerse herself in the fantasy genre.

Safer spaces...

From Page 1

the birth of their organization. “People were [asking], ‘Paano natin masu-sustain ‘to?...sabi ng mga tao, ‘Gawa tayo ng Facebook group.’”

(How can we sustain this? The people said, “Let’s make a Facebook group.”)

From then on, Time’s Up Ateneo only grew in numbers. They continued to call for accountability, but unfortunately, the group’s status as an external organization poses further bottlenecks in the lobbying process. “I’m not

“Nakita ko na...isa siyang pag-aaral sa kung paano dinedisenyo ang dystopian narrative,” she expounds.

(I found that it was a study on how dystopian narratives are designed.)

“I suppose the translator’s task is really to convey the author’s message as faithfully as she can,” Cleto says. But of course, a translator can have their own opinions on the original text, too. Sometimes, Cleto would find the worldbuilding or the characterization spotty.

In these cases, unintentional ‘betrayals’ can happen in the conveyance,” as Cleto puts it, and a translator’s own style could seep in.

She adds, “Dahil nagtatanong din sa sarili ang translator, hindi ko alam kung evident din ‘yun sa pagkakasalin ko.”

(Because a translator asks themselves questions, I am not sure if it’s evident in my translations.)

The price of borrowed words In an ideal world, Cleto continues, there would be a meeting of the minds between the author and the translator to ensure they are both on the same page. A genuinely faithful translation takes time and should not be rushed. But of course, this is rarely the case for the publishing industry.

After all, publication houses have their own timelines and profit margins to consider when commissioning translations. In the crunch to meet deadlines, authenticity and quality are often the first to go. “Kahit na anong tago mo diyan, pera-pera pa rin ‘yan,” Adrian Joseph Caparas, author and head teacher

satisfied with what Ateneo has done,” Cruz divulges, critiquing ADMU’s lack of concrete reforms. “I mean may changes, may new code, may independent review, pero...After that, what next?”

Changing the culture For Malig, there is still a long road ahead. “The passing of the policy did not automatically guarantee [that] DLSU is now free from all forms of harassment, discrimination, and assault. It’s still occurring; it’s still a thing within our University,” she asserts. Just this August,

of our colonial history in more ways than one.

“Laging sinusunod ng mga propesor at tsaka ng mga tagapagsalin..ang mga kanluraning pag-iisip pagdating sa pagsasalin,” states Caparas.

(Professors and translators always follow Western ideas when it comes to translating.)

gamay. Hindi ito nakabawas puntos sa Filipino, ito ay nakakadagdag.”

(When it was translated, they understood it in the language they are familiar with. This doesn’t cheapen Filipino, but instead adds value to it.)

Moreover, spelling mistakes and typographical errors are common among Filipino translators due to the lack of standardization. Caparas chalks this up to the conflicts in principles and ideologies when it comes to the Filipino language. But he also brings up that these issues more often than not stem from inadequate government support.

The combination of this chronic undervaluation of the Filipino language and the need to maximize short-term profit leads to a struggling translation market. It’s shadowed by Western literature—a reflection

Down the rabbit hole It is then such a shame that these reasons limit the practice of translation. As Argel Joseph Bernardino, a Filipino teacher at Elizabeth Seton School notes, “Ano bang pangunahin na gampanan ng wika?

Pagkakaunawaan. Hindi maging hadlang.”

He firmly believes that when the practice of translating literature is allowed to fully capture the diversity of cultural identity, it can construct a more nuanced worldview.

(What is the primary aim of language?

Understanding. Not to create barriers.)

Bernardino also asserts that we look down on Filipino translated books because of the notion that one language is superior to the other. He says, “Hindi ‘baduy’ ang Filipino.

Naging ‘baduy’ [ito] dahil, sa palagay ninyo, may wikang superior.”

(Filipino is not ‘low-class.’ It became ‘low-class’ because, in your opinion, there is a superior language.)

In fact, for Bernardino, the accessibility brought by translation can only enrich the original text. He cites The Little Prince as an example, which was first written in French.

The language and symbolism can be difficult to parse through, but when translated to Filipino, “mas naunawaan [nila] sa wikang

From the heart Translation, at the heart of it all, cannot be reduced to mere theoretical concepts. Caparas explains, “Hindi natin nakikita na ang pagsasalin ay isang sining.” The connections it makes allow us to understand the world—and for the world to understand us too.

(We don’t see that translation is a form of art.)

But to fully harness this potential, it’s high time we move away from English to Filipino translations and instead set our sights on the diverse pantheon we already have.

Caparas questions why we place primacy on English in the first place, saying, “Bakit hindi na lang natin i-translate ang sarili nating akda...sa iba pang mga wika dito sa Pilipinas?”

(Why don’t we translate our own works into other Philippine languages?)

Bernardino echoes the sentiment, emphasizing the legacy of Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. He says, “Hindi [lamang sila] panitikan ng Pilipinas; ito ay panitikan ng mundo.

Mas maraming tao ang nakakaunawa...tungo sa kaisipang kamalayan na nagpapamulat.”

(They aren’t just the literature of the Philippines; they are the literature of the world.

A lot more people would understand...the consciousness that liberates.)

allegations of sexual abuse and harassment surfaced against two candidates in the GE 2021 who have since withdrawn.

Lim stresses that the true battle lies in trying to “change extremely entrenched, patriarchal cultures that a lot of people have grown up in without being corrected.”

However, it would take a copious amount of time to properly enact such laws if this culture prevails. For Lim, creating such laws is already a step forward, saying, “At the baseline, it creates protection [for victims].”

It’s no longer enough that a few cases go viral and be sufficiently handled

by the University. The Safe Spaces Act provides a groundwork for the institution to realign its mechanisms so that survivors can safely come forward. Making a system operable to handle cases is tedious work, but changing how the University handles sexual violence is necessary.

“We do think that this will mean that DLSU will be a safe space for most people or...there will be a course of action to correct that behavior and give justice to the victims of...harassment,” Lim hopes.

The fight to reclaim one’s agency in a broken system is exhausting and often

requires survivors to relive their suffering.

But despite how petrifying fear can be, courage can be extremely contagious too.

Cruz reminds us that one shouldn’t handle this alone, saying, “The community is there to inform the survivor that these are all your options, these are your systems of support.”

At the end of the day, these prominent schools will never lack interested applicants who seek quality education. Those who do should not have to compromise safety in exchange for learning—two rights they constitutionally deserve.

by Ryla Monica Espiritu, Glenielle Geraldo Nanglihan, & Hans Xavier Wong

of Filipino at Colegio de San Juan Letran Calamba, laments.

(Regardless of how much you try to hide it, it’s still about the money.)

Caparas notes that Filipino translators today are often treated and compensated poorly. “Dito sa Pilipinas wala, kapag gusto mong mag-translate,” he divulges, “pa-cake lang at pa-kape.”

(Here in the Philippines, if you want to translate, they’ll pay you in cake and coffee.)

Hindi ‘baduy’ ang Filipino. Naging ‘baduy’ [ito] dahil, sa palagay ninyo, may wikang superior.

SEPTEMBER 19, 2021

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That’s Eat Pancit

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PAINTING WITH LIGHT

SEPTEMBER 19, 2021

Modern democracies

7

“Everyone has a voice, they should be able to take advantage of it and listen.”

PAINTING WITH LIGHT AUGUST 16, 2021

Section Editor: Lauren Sason

“By exercising my right to vote, and by always demanding the truth from the people in the government.”

by Enricko Montoya

by Apa Reyta

by Anton Trivino

by Anton Trivino

by Anton Trivino

by Anton Trivino

*DATE

“People can exercise their democratic rights by voting for the person who they feel will be the perfect role model who will lead Filipinos to a better tomorrow.”

“By exercising their right to vote, without external pressure and influences.”

“Being able to write freely without fear from the government without prejudice” “We should all exercise our right to vote for a better life and future for our generation and the coming

by Nelissa Chua ones. We deserve to have peace,

by Sean Joya stability, and hope.”

“By supporting minorities and ensuring the preservation of individual rights.”

“Titindig sa bawat pagkakataon upang itaguyod ang karapatan ng bawat Filipino.”

by Haniel Uy

by Joyce Tseng

by Micah Coronel

by Renz Perez

by Mikki Luistro

by Lauren Sason

by Lauren Sauson

by Zoila Caga

“Start a petition, make a stand, gather with other folks and let your voice be heard.”

by Earl Arel

by Anton Trivino

“Turuan niyo ang inyong mga kapwa Pilipino na bumoto para sa isang kandidato na makakabuti para sa ating bansa.”

by Gilliane Luy

“I believe the best way for Filipinos to exercise their democratic rights is being able to voice out their concerns.”

“As a teacher, I practice democracy in my classroom by allowing my pupils to speak out what’s in their mind and respect their opinion. By doing this, they will learn more and develop their self confidence.”

by Francene Panis

SEPTEMBER 19, 2021

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KICKSTART

BEHIND THE BEAT

HALFTIME THOUGHTS

PFL prepares for new beginnings

Animo Squad rallies on

Individual sports thriving in the Philippines

Behind the scenes with Hidilyn Diaz’ nutritionist

Football’s growth in the country continues, despite taking a challenging turn.

With the lack of physical training, the DLSU Animo Squad aims to maintain its quality as a group.

For many years, individual sports have not gotten the same recognition as popular team sports in the country.

Jeaneth Aro introduces the team behind Hidilyn Diaz’s current triumph.

Section Editor: Diego Vergel de Dios PAINTING WITH LIGHT

Graphics by Apa Reyta & Carl Denzyl Soriano With the recent success in the Tokyo Olympics, athletes from individual sports finally have an opportunity to shine.

HALFTIME THOUGHTS

Individual sports thriving in the Philippines Nearly a month has passed since the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, wherein the Philippine team achieved its most historic campaign since the 1932 Los Angeles Games by garnering four podium finishes: gold for Hidilyn Diaz (weightlifting), two silvers for Nesthy Petecio and Carlo Paalam, and a bronze for Eumir Marcial (boxing), all notably coming from individual sports. The impressive bout gained much attention from the international and local crowd and served as a testament to the Filipino athletes’ talent and hard work.

However, different issues also came to light due to this impressive Olympic run.

For many years, individual sports have not gotten the same recognition and support as popular team sports in the country like

basketball and volleyball. This historical achievement allowed athletes to showcase the “lesser-known” sports and prove that they can also represent the Philippines in their own unique way.

Insufficient support The impact of basketball in the country has been evident for a long time. Stadiums are always packed with spectators, and tickets are sold out for almost every game.

Even some loyal fans watch games from their homes to show support.

When it comes to the sporting world, funding for equipment, transportation, and facilities are necessary for the conditioning of athletes. Take Gilas Pilipinas as an example.

They are backed by Samahan Basketbol ng

by Tana Melgar

Pilipinas, headed by Manuel V. Pangilinan, which provides constant support in all of the team’s competitions.

Back in June 2019, Diaz struggled financially, even asking for additional sponsorships for her Olympic training. She also expressed her hesitance in reaching out for help. Still, she persevered to fulfill her longtime dream of winning a gold medal in the Summer Olympics, which ended up becoming a reality. Unlike basketball players who receive consistent funding and assistance, Diaz had to reach out desperately.

Diaz had to train in Malaysia due to the lack of facilities available in the Philippines

and proceeded to lengthen her stay because of lockdown regulations. Furthermore, she pointed out the measly funds that were given to her, noting the absence of both financial and mental support for athletes.

A new direction The sports played in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) and National College Athletic Association (NCAA) serve as avenues to exhibit talented players who excel in their respective sports. The fanbase and exposure these collegiate leagues bring to the world of sports are vital to an athlete’s long-term opportunities. Producing a solid foundation can lead to introducing them to the professional league or even the national

team. But sports like weightlifting and boxing are not included in the collegiate level, making the audience for them limited.

However, the success of the Filipino Olympians can now encourage more exposure for their respective sports— advocating for young aspiring athletes to follow their path and opening doors to new narratives. They all look forward to adding these sports to collegiate competitions, namely the UAAP and NCAA. Last August 31, UAAP Executive Director Rebo Saguisag shared that the league is now open to the idea of including weightlifting and boxing for future UAAP seasons. He mentioned that See Individual sports, Page 10

BEHIND THE BEAT

The DLSU Animo Squad continues to adapt and rally despite different obstacles along the way.

Animo Squad rallies on Training is a prime factor for athletes, enabling them to boost their skills, carry out their goals, and polish up on their craft. The pandemic brought many sports to a halt, affecting how athletes interacted with one another.

Despite the limitations, online training has persisted. Estelle Cerutti (III, BS-MKT) and Mico Sillo (IV, AB-BHS), members of the DLSU Animo Squad, share how their team has adjusted to the new setup, faced challenges, and continued to improve their performances.

by Ysabela Bakabak & Rain Leoncio See Animo Squad, Page 10 Graphics by Brie Makalinao, Athena Montes, Eugenio Pastoral II, & Anton Trivino

SPORTSBITS

Ricciardo wins first race since 2018

Daniel Ricciardo won the Italian Grand Prix after Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton crashed earlier in the race.

Medvedev beats Djokovic in straight sets

Daniil Medvedv beat Novak Djokovic at the 2021 US Open in straight sets for his first career Grand Slam title.

Ramos signs with Toyoma Grouses

Dwight Ramos decides to forego his final two years with Ateneo as he turns pro to play in the B.League.

Bolick wins player of the week

Robert Bolick led the Northport Batang Pier to a 3-0 record last week to improve on their place in the standings.

SPORTS

Layout by Maren Rose Marasigan & Hannah Franchesca Timoteo

9

Behind the scenes with Hidilyn Diaz’ nutritionist Behind every athlete’s triumphs or downfalls is a team that plays the supporting roles to ensure that their champion is at peak condition upon entering the arena. With the country’s first Olympic gold medal finally obtained in the recent 2020 Tokyo Olympics, spectators might be interested to know the team behind Hidilyn Diaz, the woman who won the elusive Olympic gold.

Among Team HD, the team behind the country’s golden girl, are Kaiwen Gao (head weightlifting coach), Julius Naranjo (assistant weightlifting coach and strength and conditioning coach), Dr. Karen Trinidad (sports psychologist), and Jeaneth Aro, “Hidy’s” sports nutritionist and support coach.

The winning formula As a registered nutritionist and dietitian, Aro was in charge of Diaz’s nutrition plan, making sure that the athlete’s daily food and drink intake was monitored, cementing Aro as an important figure in the success of Diaz.

“Napakalawak ng nutrition program na pinag-uusapan natin dito that led to her gold medal win in the Olympics,” she expresses. It was a continuous process that was consistently refined according to her needs as an athlete. There were different approaches to her nutrition depending on whether Diaz was training, competing, or recovering. “We’ve been doing this program since 2019. And finally, in the Olympics, ‘yung product ng continuous refinement was put to test. And it proved to be the best approach so far that allowed us to win the gold,” she adds.

(The nutrition program that we are talking about here is really broad.)

by Arvin Marion Abaniel & Dayne Aduna

Aro reiterates how nutrition is the groundwork for an athlete’s success. After all, nutrition is a major part of an athlete’s preparation from the very beginning. “Sa training phase pa lang dapat binibigyan na ito ng importance because it helps the athlete’s body to optimize their body composition. Napakaimportante ‘yung kinakain nila sa simula pa lang para hindi sila mahirapan na mag-maintain ng weight, maka-gain ng tamang amount of muscle mass, at mabawasan ‘yung body fat.” With Diaz’s nutrition strategies, her body was able to endure stressful competitions and perform at its peak.

(Even in the training phase, [nutrition] should be given importance because it helps the athlete’s body to optimize their body composition. Their food intake from the very beginning is important so that maintaining their weight, gaining the right amount of muscle mass, and lessening their body fat will not be a problem.)

Bumps along the road Aro shares that the postponement of the Olympics was the number one problem for their team because of the “constant anxiety of the uncertainty.” The team did not know whether the competition would

push through even two weeks prior to the event.

However, the nutritional aspect of Diaz’s training program was designed to be flexible and adjust to any changes that would occur. “Kung ano lang ‘yung available na food, I work within those limitations.

For Diaz, noong nagkaroon ng Movement Control Order [in Malaysia], nabawasan ‘yung nakakain niya outside of the meal plan. Mas naging controlled ‘yung take niya,” Aro utters.

(I work within the limitations of what food is available. For Diaz, when there was a Movement Control Order [in Malaysia], the amount of food she ate outside of the meal plan was reduced. Her food intake became more controlled.)

Paris 2024?

On Diaz defending her Olympic title in Paris 2024, Aro says that she has not yet relayed a final decision to the team. Aro ensures that Team HD will continue to provide support until the next Olympics, except coach Gao who will be returning home to China soon.

Though an Olympic return is still an unanswered question, Aro assures that Diaz will continue to be seen in the competition stage up to the 2022 Asian Games in China, at the least.

Illustration by Ruaina Moreno

BEHIND THE GOLDEN GIRL HIDILYN DIAZ is a nutritionist that keeps her at peak condition.

FAST NUMBERS

2 In his first game back for Manchester United, Cristiano Ronaldo scored two goals and led his team to victory.

5.93 EJ Obiena breaks the Asian record in pole valuting by tallying a score of 5.93m in the Golden Roof Challenge.

3 Max Verstappen was given a three-place grid penalty after colliding with Lewis Hamilton in Monza.

5 The San Francisco Giants clinched their first playoff birth since their 2016 World Series run.

10 SPORTS

SEPTEMBER 19, 2021

Individual sports...

From Page 8

the only challenge is the restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic affecting the recruitment and management of the teams.

Furthermore, in living up to the principles of the UAAP, the foundation of national sports programs in the country also aims to be strengthened.

The PFL aims to break through barriers, kicking off its season amid the pandemic.

Graphics by Kevin Prudon, Ashia SN, Joyce Tseng& Justin To

KICKSTART

PFL prepares for new beginnings

UNLIKE BASKETBALL PLAYERS WHO RECEIVE CONSISTENT FUNDING AND ASSISTANCE— DIAZ HAD TO REACH OUT DESPERATELY.

Since its first season in 2017, the Philippine Football League (PFL) has showcased the top football talent that the country has to offer.

The league announced that it will kick off its 2021 season on September 25 after its 2020 season was delayed for seven months.

“For a league to keep on growing, changes must occur and such right ones can make history for the rest of the country.”

Former DLSU Men’s Football players Matthew Nierras, and Nathan Alquiros of Stallions Laguna FC, and Mauro Acot of Dynamic Herb Cebu FC shared their thoughts with The LaSallian on the challenges of the upcoming

by Jeremiah Dizon & Diego Manzano

season and the significance of the league’s opening.

Limitations of the pandemic Social distancing protocols affected the nation’s athletes for the worse, rendering squads unable to train together in person. With football being a team sport, this inevitably makes it difficult for players to maintain the level of performance they aim for.

Nierras talks about the importance of training and being ready to play in the topflight league. “For any football player— actually for any athlete—if you don’t train, especially at a certain level, after maybe two, three days, your fitness goes down a lot...So not being able to run, not being able to play with the ball is a huge difference on players.”

Regardless of what the situation brings, the three shed light on their responsibility as professional footballers.

Nierras stresses the importance of doing what one can with the limitations imposed by the pandemic. “Everyone’s trying to stay as fit as possible. As much as possible, you’re trying to stay fit, you’re trying to run, so at least once we get clearance to start training again, at least it’s not from zero, like from straight zero.”

Meanwhile, Alquiros shares, “Independently, you just have to be disciplined everyday, [and] train everyday.”

The midfielder furthers, ”You have to think of your endurance, your strengthening, and your touches with the ball. Since you’re a football player, getting touches with the ball is very important.”

Entering his debut season, midfielder Acot highlights his focus on challenging himself. “My personal agenda is just really to be better than who I was yesterday. That starts by training the mind first thing in the morning by refocusing and realigning where I am and where I should be, then my body will follow through the training and all.”

Getting ready for battle Compared to the bubble set-up last year, league officials announced that the 2021 season will be conducted in a “homevenue-home” format.

As the PFL nears its season opener, teams have been making the necessary adjustments to address the strength and conditioning of players. “We’re focusing more on getting fitness for the first few

training sessions because they know everyone has just been training on their own, so it’s different [with] meshing together as a team,” Alquiros explains.

Training virtually challenges the coherence and consistency of a squad, making their determination and discipline more crucial as this can translate into balanced teamwork on the field.

“The team is set to go further and push local football, especially the Cebuano community, to newer heights,” Acot mentions on his team’s mindset. With the hardships a team faces, it is pivotal that they enter into a new season with a united and committed mentality. As the tournament progresses, their chemistry and trust with one another allows them to persevere in attaining their ultimate goal—a championship.

Whole new game Acot says, “For a league to keep on growing, changes must occur and such right ones can make history for the rest of the country.” The PFL plans to increase the number of participating teams to ramp up the competition among accomplished veterans and excited newcomers.

With players hailing from provinces across the country, Nierras believes that the addition of teams will benefit the tournament, “It’s nice because when you have teams like that, there are those ‘hidden gem’ kind of players, and players who I haven’t seen and played against yet.”

The much-awaited thrill of competing once again is music to the ears of these football players. After multiple delays, they are more than eager to showcase their skill and talent in front of their opponents and anticipating fans.

Raising the bar The three agree that the PFL is essential for football’s growth in the Philippines.

Nierras states that the league is “something that a lot of players should look forward to” as this opens up the opportunity for them to dream of playing in their own country’s professional league.

Alquiros feels optimistic about the direction that Philippine football is heading in. “It’s slowly growing. The pandemic is just hindering it, but the league is doing very well for the players, and it is helping them, helping our country grow in the sport.”

Dax Castellano, NCAA Season 97 Management Committee Chairman, also affirms that the NCAA is open to new innovations and proposals to produce more athletes who are capable of representing the country in the future. Further consultations on this matter are needed in order to discuss the idea’s feasibility.

Animo Squad...

From Page 8

Keeping in sync With the lack of physical practice, the Animo Squad’s online training regimen has drastically changed as they have to maintain a crucial point in their team performance— synchronization. Cerutti shares some of the obstacles they face regarding connectivity issues, “It is difficult online because even on call, it’s not even in sync because of the lag and the internet”. Nonetheless, Cerutti also remarks how their experience has been smooth, since new members of the team could easily pick up on the beats.

But setbacks still remain as some team members struggle with connectivity issues or personal concerns. Even with the new setting, snags may come unexpectedly along with other priorities that student-athletes need to attend to, but the team is able to work through difficulties and adversity. Sillo further shares that sending a list of workouts to do would be given to members who were not able to attend the training session.

Staying ready Much like every other sport in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines, the challenge of not knowing when the next season will start clouds the pep squad as well. Even with this uncertainty, the squad has consistently taken steps throughout the pandemic in order to stay prepared and conditioned despite the challenges that it entails.

But a pause in the season does not mean that the student-athletes have to pause, too—such is the mentality that the Animo Squad upholds. Sillo reiterates, “We want to make sure na even if there are no games, we still know, and we still master the beats that we usually play during games.” Sillo expounds that they constantly check up on each other, especially the newer members in order for everyone to remain consistent and perfect.

As vice captain, Cerutti makes sure that, despite the separation that the pandemic

A better outlook The record-breaking Olympic stint garnered so much attention and produced diverse possibilities for the development of the sporting community in the country.

Each Filipino Olympian became role models to the public for their groundbreaking performances. Especially the medalists, they were able to represent the several sports that lacked the spotlight they deserved while lifting up the spirit of an entire nation throughout a difficult time.

There are high hopes for the upcoming generation, as many programs and organizations involve themselves to help support Filipino athletes. With the many rising individuals like weightlifters Elreen Ando and 17-year-old Vanessa Sarno, they both yearn to become promising representatives of the Philippines in upcoming competitions.

Having the initiative to introduce more categories to the collegiate playing field is a significant step in improving the exposure of these lesser-known sports, providing athletes with a bigger platform to exhibit their passion and talent. Since the conclusion of the Summer Olympics, several companies and notable businessmen have started reaching out to the athletes, providing them with various rewards for their performance, including funds and equipment needed for training.

A promising future is in sight as there is a glimpse of establishing improved sporting programs and initiatives in the Philippines.

It is essential to take advantage of every opportunity of evolving the country’s overall sporting scene, so that athletes are empowered to excel in their own careers while inspiring many people from different backgrounds to do the same. Athletes are motivated to make a name for themselves to fulfill certain aspirations in life that can redefine the country’s cultural and sporting identity.

brought, she tries to keep all the divisions of the team together and connected. To keep activities interesting and engaging, she mixes different approaches. “I merged the game night with the beat check,” she explains,” so it’s checking each other’s mastery for the beats, but at the same time we also have fun with it and I think that’s what’s important. Our coach tells us that is what’s important, to keep the team together and our fitness.”

Shaping the mentality In being a student-athlete, health is another crucial factor that affects the capacity and performance of an individual.

Sillo expresses how he managed to train despite contracting the virus,“Because of my COVID [illness], I couldn’t run anymore tapos ‘yung mga workouts that they do, nakakamatay na siya sa ’kin, ‘di ko kinaya.”

(Because of my COVID [illness], I couldn’t run anymore and for the workouts that they do, [it already felt] deadly for me; I couldn’t handle it.)

Being able to juggle academics, training, and one’s personal affairs during the pandemic is difficult. As a studentathlete, having the ability to balance all of these is a number-one duty. For this reason, the members of the team would be willing to tackle any challenge that may turn up. “[With] this whole new setup, although it has taken us back a bit, it also enabled us to be more creative.” Mico shares that in face of the online training, the team still manages to be productive. Being able to willingly manage and make the time for collective and personal training is a mindset they share. They are flexible to the adjustments made, opening themselves to new ideas and creativity.

“If kaya, kakayanin.” That is the mentality that Cerutti has practiced in her entire stay with the Animo Squad—one that she hopes to bring to her teammates. Cerutti values her team in a way that goes beyond the sport, saying, “We’re not a team, we’re a family. If there’s [a] problem on one end, we do our best to fix it.”