Crosscurrent 2011 by filipino web

Crosscurrent

message

editorial board MARYGRACE AC-AC Editor-in-chief MARIO MARANAN JOEY VARGAS Associate editors VICTOR ERICA Sports editor Layout artist

The Order of the Augustinian Recollects (OAR) in the archipelago celebrates the school year 2011-12 as “Education Year” with the theme: “Kindling the Hearts and Empowering the Minds for Responsible Stewardship.” Responsible stewardship is a daunting challenge today! Our modern models simply fall short of the ideal set before us by the Son of God. In many figurative ways, Jesus presents himself as the steward par excellence—a Good Shepherd who seeks for the lost sheep; a Healer who cures not only those who have much in life, but most importantly those who have nothing but their body and soul; a Teacher who flaunts not his human wisdom but offers his very life of love, service and humility; a Friend who lays down his life so that others might live; and, beyond image and metaphor, a Bread of life broken and shared for all. San Sebastian College offers us a great opportunity to model ourselves as stewards responsible for the molding of young minds and empowering the youthful hearts. May this publication offer reflections as to how we, in this 21st century, become servants of life, agents of truth, and stewards of love.

SQUEEGEE JAKOSALEM Graphic artist REV. FR. LEANDER BARROT, OAR Consultant REV. FR. ANTHONY MORILLO, OAR Moderator Contributing Writers MERCEDITAS DELA CRUZ CRISTINA CALUZA IGNACIO KATAPANG, CPA PRINCESS ARLEEN ZAMORA RACHEL FRANCO RODRIGO PONCE JR., Ph.D LINDA APAAP KAREN PARICO JERVICE GOZUM CHELSEA LIAO JENNIE LYN FLORA RUTH BALITA JOSIAH RAMUEL NARCA ALMA GALVEZ Photo Credits REV. FR. REYNALDO JARANILLA, OAR ARNEL FRANCO SQUEEGEE JAKOSALEM KING TOLENTINO

Fr. Anthony Morillo, OAR President

is published by the Office of Corporate Communications with office address at the Saint Sebastian Building, San Sebastian College-Recoletos, Recto Ave., Manila. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without the express prior approval of Corporate Communications. All comments regarding the content of this publication shall be addressed to the Editor-in-Chief.

April-October Issue

headlines PAASCU Resurveys SSC-R Manila The San Sebastian CollegeRecoletos Manila will welcome accreditors from the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU) for the Resurvey Visit of the following programs: (1) Arts and Sciences and Business Administration (for Level III resurvey visit); (2) HRM and Tourism (for Level II resurvey visit); and (3) Computer Science (for Level II resurvey visit) on February 23-24, 2012. During the visit, the PAASCU accreditors are expected to conduct classroom observation, individual and group interviews, examination of exhibits and documents, ocular inspection, viewing of students’ works and projects, progress report meetings and final evaluation of the school. Con’t. on page 5

FAAP grants accreditation to SSC-R Manila

Mendoza garners 3rd Spot in CISA Examination

The Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU) through the Federation of Accrediting Association of the Philippines (FAAP) awarded San Sebastian CollegeRecoletos, Manila Level III status to the following programs: Arts and Sciences, Business Administration and Commerce, Level II Status for Accountancy program and Level I for HRM/Tourism and Computer Science programs. The SSC-R High School and Grade School are two of only few schools awarded Level III status by PAASCU, the highest status granted for Basic Education. This accreditation is awarded to programs of an institution that excel

The Certified Information Systems Audit (CISA) designation is globally recognized as the mark of excellence for the Information System Audit professionals. CISA combines the achievement of passing a comprehensive exam with recognition of work and educational experience.

Con’t. on page 27

T h e A m e r i c a n N a t i o n a l Standards Institute (ANSI) accredited said certification examination and more than 70,000 professionals

6 BSA Graduates add to Sebastinian CPAs

Six out of Eleven Sebastinian graduates or 54.54% passed the 2011 May CPA Board Exams, an increase of 17.07% from October 2010 result of 36.84% and 29.55% increase from May 2010 result of 25.00%. The passers are as follows: Agustin, Leslie Ann C. (Class 2007); Bolano, Richard Netson V. (Class 2009); Chavez, Marian A. (Class 2010); Hao, Vina Murriel M. (Class 2010); Jugueta, Anna Czarina Z. (Class 2010); and Navarro, Con’t. on page 28

SOLA Enters Into Memorandum of Commitment and Patriotism with POEA The Sebastinian Office of Legal Aid (SOLA) and the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) agreed to jointly battle illegal recruitment and human trafficking with the signing of a Memorandum of Commitment and Patriotism (MOCP) on 28 April at the President’s Office, San Sebastian College – Recoletos, Recto Avenue, Manila. Present in the signing were POEA Administrator Carlos Cao, Rev. Fr. Anthony A. Morillo, OAR, SSC-R College of Law Dean Willard B. Riano, SOLA Director and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Ferdinand A. Con’t. on page 13 Crosscurrent

editorial Year of Recoletos Education 2011 This academic year 2011-2012, the Province of St. Ezekiel Moreno in the Philippines, of the Order of Augustinian Recollects (OAR), is holding its Education Year under the auspices of the Recoletos Educational Apostolate in the Philippines (REAP). It complies with the fourth provincial chapter ordinance that gave a mandate to the administration of the religious Province to celebrate an education year within the triennium. The theme of the celebration is “Kindling the Heart and Empowering the Mind for Responsible Stewardship”. Fueled by this theme, the OAR organized a series of activities such as the inter-Recoletos Sports and dance Competitions on September 6-9 and 1923 at the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos, Bacolod City and University of San Jose-Recoletos, Cebu City, respectively. From October 17 to 21, the Students Congress of Recoletos Schools – the socalled SCORES – was held at UNO-R, Bacolod City, where students from grade school to college met for academic and cultural inter-Recoletos contests. Seminars on various areas such as the environment, administration and Augustinian Recollect culture have been done. Many other projects shall also be done. For instance, a concert by the OAR religious will also be staged on December 1 at the UNO-R, Bacolod City amphitheater. The closing of the education year shall be the Teachers’ Congress on April 1618, 2012 which shall be held at the San Sebastian College-Recoletos Manila. The highlight of the celebration will be a threeday International Recoletos Education Congress in Cebu where the first Augustinian Recollects first landed 405 years ago. Its continuing presence since then is significantly painted with a lot of missionary work, having evangelized part of Luzon, a good part of the Visayas and the whole of Northern Mindanao. But recently, towards the second half of the last century, when the local Church seemed to have been implanted everywhere, the Order in the Philippines tilted its scale in favor of parish formation and school work. And today, with the eight schools that it operates, educating over 30,000 young people, the Order in the Philippines has more religious educators than formators in the seminaries or pastors in the parishes. It is for this reason that holding events such as this helps to bring awareness of the OAR service and the big challenge that it entails, the need to connect and be relevant to the world, and the urgency to establish partnership with those in the same field.

April-October Issue

cover story “Year of the Recollect Education: An Engagement” The Recollect in the Philippines celebrates 2011 as a year for Recollect Education with the theme: Kindling the Heart and Empowering the Mind for Responsible Stewardship. In line with this celebration, a conference sponsored by the Campus Ministry Office, was held August 6, 2011 for the faculty members, staff and personnel to rekindle the spirit of

forming the heart and probing the minds of the young. This article, then, is like a collage of the many points given by Fr. Lauro V. Larlar, OAR former provincial of the Recollects in the Philippines and presently the Rector of Casiciaco Recoletos (CaReS) in Baguio. As readers scan through this article, written from an audience’s perspective, may they discover the speaker’s wisdom and feel his passion for the ministry of molding Con’t. on p.15

able of

ontents

3 headlines 4 cover story library corner 8 president’s report 14 literary 16 20 FEATURES 24 news features

Vol. 8 No.20 April - October 2011

3rd Year BSHM studes attend OBP Seminar The BSHRM Track 1 students attended the seminar organized by the Organization of Bartenders in the Philippines held at the San Sebastian College – Recoletos Manila on August 20, 27, September 10, October 1 and 8. The participants were divided into five groups in order to be accommodated on the said dates. The seminar had two sessions from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. An overview of the duties and responsibilities of a bartender marked the start of the morning seminar. Cocktail mixing, garnishing of a drink, pouring methods and styles were also discussed. Everyone was given a handson experience in making a standard international drink such as the Cuba Libre and Margarita, and in bartending during the afternoon session. The trainers from OBP showcased their flair-tending skills with demonstration. The bartending seminar was facilitated by the founding president of OBP, Mr. Geronimo Ele.

Cuban Ambassador Delivers Lecture

news

His Excellency Juan Carlos Arencibia Corrales, Cuban Ambassador to the Philippines, shared his expertise and discussed about his country, culture, and people during a seminar entitled “Cross-Cultural Perspectives on the Marketing Aspect” held last October 3. He also shared some insights about the political and economic factors that influence globalization. This activity was an off-shoot of the international tour program of the College of Accountancy, Business Administration and Computer Studies (CABACS) for its Business Administration students, particularly those enrolled in the International Marketing and International Management subject. Part of the requirements for this subject is an international tour meant to give the students the opportunity to experience firsthand how the theories and concepts they learn from books are applied in practical context. The program is truly advantageous for students except that not all of them are able to afford the expenses; thus, some opt to do it locally. The said seminar on Cross-Cultural Perspectives was meant, therefore, as a secondary option. This allowed the students to become knowledgeable about the countries of their choice, allowing them to learn about international marketing, cultural environment of global marketing management, and the corporate context of international marketing. Ms. JC de la Cruz, a fourth-year Marketing Management student, spearheaded the conduct of the seminar.

Con’t. from page 3

The team’s recommendations will certainly help and give direction to SSC-R Manila in its quest and journey toward quality Catholic education. In preparation for the PAASCU visit, a self-survey process was used to enable the members of the community to understand and appreciate the vision of the Augustinian Recollects and also to determine the needs of the different areas of concern, such as (1) Vision-Mission-Goals (2) Community Involvement (3) Faculty (4) Curriculum and Instruction (5) Library (6) Laboratories (7) Physical Plant (8) Student Services and (9) Administration. Members of the Accreditation Executive Committee & Secretariat were identified to work

on their assignments and functions. Monthly meetings of the Accreditation Executive Committee and Secretariat were conducted. Different PAASCU survey chairs, co-chairs and members were formed. A series of meetings, conferences, ocular visits and seminars in coordination with the HRDC and the Offices of the different Vice Presidents were conducted. “It has been a journey to selfdiscovery and confirmation that we are one in believing that there is meaning

in what we have been doing and undertaking in this institution,” Rev. Fr. Anthony Morillo said. In relation to this, Rev. Fr. Morillo appealed to the Sebastinian community to extend their cooperation, support and prayers for the success of the school accreditation. Crosscurrent

news SSC-R Manila holds Institutional Annual Planning & Evaluation Thirty-three (33) Religious and Lay Administrators of SSC-R Manila and SSC-R Canlubang participated in the annual institutional planning and evaluation conducted last January 27-28 at the Astoria Plaza, Pasig City. Accomplished objectives and outputs include the presentation of the School Board’s Thrust, presentation of the Accomplishment Reports and Gap Analysis of the SY 2010-2011, formulation of the Institutional Operational Project Plans for SY 2011-2012. Dr. Lolita de Guzman facilitated the presentation of the Performance Evaluation, Accomplishment Reports and Gap Analysis of 2010 Plan of Actions of every department. During the Annual Planning, Rev. Fr. Anthony Morillo, OAR, the school President, presented the eleven School Board’s Thrusts as follows: 1. Increase the SSC-R Manila enrolment in all levels 2. Offer new courses/programs in all levels. 3. Continue improvement of services and facilities 4. Enhance Employees (Administrators, Faculty & Staff) and Students Development Programs 5. Maximize core competencies 6. Promote transparency and commitment to uphold the highest standards 7. Strengthen the research culture and environment of the entire SSC-R Manila community 8. Pursue the goal of becoming the Center of Development and Excellence 9. Strengthen the local and international benchmarking and linkages of all the major courses and departments 10. Enhance the College of Law(COL) and Institute of Graduate Studies (IGS) 11. Strengthen the Parents and Alumni Association A socialization and cultural night hosted by the Student Welfare Department also highlighted the first day of the event. On the 2nd day, majority of the activities was spent in small group discussions focused on the formulation, presentation and critiquing of the institutional annual operational project plans for SY 2011-2012. The institutional plans were approved by the School Board and used in the formulation of the Annual Operational Project Plans of the different departments. Matters and concerns regarding the mechanics and timetable for departmental planning, calendaring of activities and budget hearing process were also discussed. Fr. Morillo also gave his message of gratitude for the participation and unceasing support and was able to challenge everyone to move forward for excellence. A Eucharistic Celebration served as a concluding activity, followed by the group picture taking. The Committee on Planning and Development and the Office of the Accreditation, Planning and Development facilitated and organized the said activity.

April-October Issue

SSC-R, sign MOA San Sebastian College-Recoletos Manila represented by Rev. Fr. Anthony A. Morillo, OAR, College President signed a memorandum of agreement with Ayala Land, Inc. represented by its HR Manager – Talent Management, Mr. Francis John P. Mallari. SSC-R’s School Company Linkage Program was supported by Ayala Land, Inc. by signing the memorandum of agreement which aims to accept students of SSC-R for onthe-job trainings in any of Ayala Land’s office or department to familiarize them with actual office operations and to supervise and hire those best qualified graduates who undertook the internship program in their company. Among those present were Ayala Land’s Ms. Heidi Ty, Sales Recruitment Associate – Corporate Marketing and Sales Group; Ms. Rose O. Morales, Head, Corporate Marketing and Sales Group; Mr. Xavier B. Casanova, Associate Manager – Corporate Marketing and Sales Group; Mr. Alvin G. Odejar, HR Specialist; and SSC-R’s Rev. Fr. Leonardo Pauligue, OAR, Vice President for Administration; Dr. Lolita De Guzman, Dean, CABACS; Dr. Winston Sirug, Dean, CAS; Mrs. Rachelle Franco, Area Chair - Business Administration; Mr. Ignacio Katapang II, Area Chair-Accountancy; and Mrs. Mary Jane Bautista, SDPC Head.

news

Testimonial Banquet 2011 for new CPAs

ALUMNUS GIVES BACK

The College of Accountancy, Business Administration and Co mp u ter St u d i e s ( C AB A C S) in coordination with the Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (JPIA) – SSCR Manila Chapter held its Testimonial Banquet, an event gesturing salute to the new Sebastinian Certified Public Accountants on August 3 at the SSC-R Coffee Shop.

Ralph Jordan “RJ” Salido, an AB Mass Communication alumnus, conducted a seminar on “The Value of Research in Production” last August 10 at the IMC. This was attended by Mass Communication students from different levels.

Ms. Dolor G. Sagun of the Area of Accountancy opened the event and Rev. Fr. Nemesio Tolentin OAR, VP for Finance, gave an inspirational talk. They reiterated to the new CPAs that the school remains to be their second home that they may visit anytime. Invited as the Guest Speaker for the event is Ms. Joyce Ann Mendoza, CPA, CISA, an alumna of San Sebastian College-Recoletos Manila who ranked 3rd in the recent CISA examination. Speaking in front of the attendees, she recalled the time she was still an officer of the JPIA organizing the event and gave some insights on how she reached her position now. She addressed the new CPAs and everyone in

attendance, encouraging them to strive hard and to keep their mind set on the goals that they want to attain in the future through perseverance and hard work. The passers who attended the banquet are: Leslie Anne C. Agustin, Richard Nelson V. Bolano, Marian A. Chavez, Vina Muriel M. Hao, and Mary Claire D. Navarro. The new CPAs were given plaques of recognition and Ms. Claire Navarro gave the response on behalf of the passers. Ms Navarro stressed the importance of positive attitude and ended saying, “A man is but the product of his thoughts. What he thinks, he becomes.” Rev. Fr. President Anthony Morillo, Accounting Manager Ms. Ceres Alcantara, and Auditor Ms. Francisca Kalalo attended the affair together with the CABACS faculty members and students.

AAHRMEI Sponsors Gourmet Skills Competition and Exposition The Association of Administrators of Hospitality, Hotel and Restaurant Management Educational Institutions (AAHRMEI) propelled an exposition and a gourmet skills competition last September 30, 7 am to 8 pm at the quadrangle and the Bulwagang Diego Cera of San Sebastian CollegeRecoletos Manila.

With the theme, “Philippine Regional Cuisine: Prospects and Opportunities for International Market,” the event convened the country’s leading HRM and Tourism students from various academic institutions in the Philippines.

The talk was the first of the “Alumni Give Back” series of seminars calendared by the area of Mass Communication this school year. The project aims to invite MC alumni to share their experiences from the industry and inspire MC students. RJ was a class 2006 Mass Communication graduate and is at present one of ABS – CBN’s News and Current Affairs researcher handling Rated K, hosted by Ms. Korina Sanchez – Roxas. by: Jennie Lyn Flora

Aside from the expositions and leadership summit, participating schools also joined the following competitions: Lutong Pinoy, Sangkap Pinoy Cooking, On-theSpot Essay Writing, Table Napkin & Bartending, and the 2011 Mr. and Ms. HRM Philippines. The AAHRMEI envisions to make the exposition and the gourmet skills competition an annual activity of students taking up HRM and Tourism coming from 600 active and dynamic member schools. San Sebastian College-Recoletos hosted this years’ AAHRMEI Affairs. Crosscurrent

news HM Sophomores Attend FIDELIO, F&B Seminars The second year HM students of the College of International Hospitality Management attended a series of seminars entitled “Professional Development and Property Management System” and “Basics in Food Beverage Service,” respectively in the morning and afternoon of August 7, 14, 21 and 28, 2011 at the Manila Grand Opera Hotel in Manila. The focal points discussed in the first series were the latest information system used in the front office department, as well as the operational procedures in guest reservation, handling guest inquiries, requests and complaints. Mr. Joel Altamirano Catibong, a well known expert in the hotel industry, served as the speaker. Dr. Gloria Baken Sy, an academician handled the second of the series in which she focused on the basics in food and beverage services. Hands-on training on the proper serving of the food and the seven basic napkin folds immediately preceded the talk. by: Mrs. Merceditas dela Cruz

library corner The St. Thomas of Villanova Library has acquired two (2) electronic databases. This is to support the research-oriented environment of the library. To use these databases please log on: a) www.search.eb.com for Britannica online; b) Trial.ebscohot.com for EBSCOHOST International Below is a list of newly acquired books for SY 2011-2012. Title: A First Look at Communication Theory. 8th ed. McGraw-Hill, New York, c2012. Author: Griffin, Em Title: Business, Government, & Society: a managerial perspective: text & cases. 13th ed. McGraw-Hill, New York, c2012. Author: Steiner, George A.

April-October Issue

Title: CPA examination reviewer: auditing problems. 2011-2012 ed. Manila: CPAR., Author: Roque, Gerardo S., 2012 Title: E s s e n t i a l s o f L i f e - S p a n Development. 2d ed. McGraw-Hill, New York, c2012. Author: Santrock, John W. Title: Hotel Front Office Management. 5th ed. John Wiley & Sons, New York, c2011. Author: Bardi, James A. Title: I n t r o d u c t i o n t o M a s s Communication: media literacy and culture. McGraw-Hill, New York, c2012. Author: Baran, Stanley J. Title: Kitchen Pro Series: Guide to Purchasing. The Culinary Institute of America. Delmar/ Thomson Learning, New York. c2012. Author: Matthews, B. Title: Management Now: skills for 21st century management. McGraw-Hill, New York, c2012. Author: Ghillyer, A. W.

Tourism initiates AMADEUS e-course An e-learning course with AMADEUS as partner was initiated at the beginning of the semester by the area of Tourism as part of the Travel and Tour Operations subject. Each student was assigned unique login code, and given modules containing lectures on how to login, sales procedures, help with the essential commands, among others. “The best part of e-learning is that each student can progress during the course according to their own pace, and even from home. At the end of every lesson is a short quiz, which accumulates to the agent’s score at the completion of all the modules,” according to Ms. Cristina Caluza, the area chairperson of Tourism. After the students fully accomplished the requirements of the said e-learning, practical examination was set at the office of AMADEUS in Makati October of this year. Brief review of the course was conducted by the coordinator of AMADEUS before the start of the practical examination. The certification for the AMADEUS exam was released on the same month. This year also marks the first time that a student from SSC-R got an AMADEUS certificate of distinction. Dan Vincent Soriano ranked top among all third year students who took the examinations. “It created another milestone in the CIHM department,” Ms. Caluza stated. Title: Management. Cengage Learning/ Thomson, Melbourne. Author: Williams, Chuck, 2012. Title: Marketing principles. Cengage Learning, Australia, 2012. Author: McDaniel, C. ; Lamb, C. W.; Hair, J. F. Jr. Title: Mass media in a changing world: history, industry, controversy. 4th ed. McGraw-Hill, New York, c2012. Author: Rodman, George

MC STUDENTS JOIN ICCS

news

by: Chelsea Liao

The second year Mass Communication students of San Sebastian College – Recoletos Manila participated in the 6th International Center for Communication Studies (ICCS) Convention on Media Communication last August 13. The convention was held at the Henry Lee Irwin Theater, Ateneo de Manila University. This year’s theme was “Dissecting Ethical Standards in Multi-Media Journalism.” Senior Editor of Interaksyon.com (TV5) Nonoy Espina discussed the ethical standards in online journalism; Ed Lingao, Multimedia Desk Editor of Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ), focused on the topic of Ethical Standards in Television Journalism; Anthony Taberna of ABS-CBN expounded on the Ethics on Radio Journalism; Maria Ressa, CNN Bureau Chief gave an informative talk on Media Ethics in a Changing Media Landscape; and Isagani Yambot of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, tackled the Ethical Standards in Paper Journalism. The event was attended by Mass Communication students from different colleges and universities nationwide. Hosts for the event were Susan Enriquez (GMA 7), Mark Salazar (GMA 7), Atom Araullo (ABS – CBN), Sol Aragones (ABS – CBN), and Cecile Lardizabal (ABS – CBN). ICCS is a member of the Council of Affiliates of the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication in South California, USA and an institutional member of the Foreign Correspondents of the Philippines (FOCAP).

CABACS facilitates educational tour To supplement classroom learning and instruction, the Area of Business Administration of the College of Accountancy, Business Administration and Computer Studies facilitated a whole-day educational tour for students of FIN 101, a subject on Corporate Finance. The students went to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE), Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), and Government Service Insurance System (GSIS). A presentation about each agency explaining its responsibilities to their stakeholders was given in each office visited. The BSP tour focused on production of money; PSE visit showed how stock trading is made; while BIR and GSIS gave details of their functions as government agencies. Ms. Rachelle Franco, Chair of the Area of Business Administration headed the educational tour. The faculty members who helped facilitate the tour are Mr. Wenceslao Pancho, Mr. Arnold Elima, Ms. Francisca Kalalo, and Ms. Carolyn Castillo. Said faculty members were joined by personnel from FORZA Travel Agency in the conduct of the tour. CABACS Area Chair of Accountancy Mr. Ignacio Katapang II and Ms. Rachelle Franco joined the August 8 tour schedule to observe the conduct of the tour. Each tour strictly followed the schedule of departure from the school at 7:30am with BSP and PSE visit in the morning. The BIR and GSIS visits were scheduled in the afternoon. Despite some cancellation of tour schedules due to bad weather, the various tour schedules were successfully conducted from July 25 to August 12. Crosscurrent

news SSC-R, DENR-NCR sign Memorandum of Agreement A memorandum of agreement was signed between the Department of Environment and Natural ResourcesNCR and the San Sebastian College-Recoletos Manila in line with the National Greening Program (NGP) of the government. The project, National Greening Program, under the Executive Order no. 26 aims to “consolidate and harmonize all greening efforts such as Luntiang Pilipinas, Upland Development Program and similar initiatives of the government, civil society and private sector in the country in cooperation with the Department of Education, Commission on Higher Education, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Budget and Management, private sector and other concerned agencies and institutions.” The SSC-R will undertake tree planting activities and was given two (2) hectares of land at the La Mesa Watershed in Quezon City and a thousand assorted tree species were to be planted on the said site. Among those present during the signing of the agreement were Mr. Nilo B. Tamoria, Regional Executive Director, DENR-NCR; Rev. Fr. Anthony A. Morillo, OAR, SSC-R President; Dr. Antonio C. Manila, DENR-NCR Regional Technical Director for Forest Management Services; and Rev. Fr. Cristopher C. Maspara, OAR, SSC-R Vice President for Student Welfare Services and NSTP Director.

SSC-R signs MOA with Bench

The College of Accountancy, Business Administration and Computer Studies’ dean, Dr. Lolita de Guzman, Mrs. Rachelle Franco, Area Chair for Business Administration and Mr. Ignacio E. Katapang, Area Chair of Accountancy together with Mrs. Mary Jane Bautista, Head of Student Development and Placement Center, Rev. Fr. Leander Barrot, OAR, Vice President for Academics, Rev. Fr. Leonardo Pauligue, OAR, Vice President for Administration and represented by its College President, Rev. Fr. Anthony A. Morillo signed a memorandum of agreement with Suyen Corporation(BENCH) represented by its General Manager, Mr. Jude Ong and Senior HR and Administration Manager, Ms. Ma. Asuncion Pineda last July 8, 2011. The memorandum of agreement between San Sebastian College – Recoletos Manila and Suyen Corporation – a retail wholesale corporation – aims to offer students of SSC-R Manila an internship in any of Suyen Corporation’s office or department for them to be familiarized with actual office and industrial operations and management. Suyen Corporation will supervise the trainees during their apprenticeship and will give preference in hiring the best qualified graduates of SSC-R who undertook the internship program.

Sebastinian Hi-Y’ers attend YMCA Training Bound by this year’s theme “Pagkakaisa, Simulang Pag-unlad at Pagbabago”, Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) of Manila unfolded its Hi-Y Club Management Training with more than 20 schools and hundreds of delegates last July 29-31 at the F. Torres High School, Tondo, Manila. The event was composed of trainings, seminars, and activities that aim to mold the youth to become responsible leaders and productive members of the society. It is the first time for SSC-R to take part in the said convention. Culminating the event was an election of officers. Camille Anne Lara of IV-St. Augustine was elected as president of YMCA Manila. It was also the first time for the organization to have a president from a private school. Other delegates who participated in the affair are Luis Ignatius Katapang, Glenniedel Terania (both from II-OLMC), Cheenie Fabro, Gil Ezekiel Senanin and Paul Arvi Reyes (all from III-St. Peter) and Josiah Ramuel Narca from Iv- St. Augustine together with Mr. Edward B. Noda Jr., Hi-Y Club/Honor Society –General Information adviser. (Josiah Ramuel Narca)

April-October Issue

news Dr. Isagani Cruz, Atty. Ulan Sarmiento Conduct K to 12 Seminar SSC-R Manila’s Grade School alumnus and Former Department of Education (DepEd) Undersecretary Dr. Isagani Cruz and well-renowned education lawyer and former member of the House of Representatives, Atty. Ulan Sarmiento talked in a conference entitled “K to 12 Implementation: Legal Issues and Concerns” last July 16 and 23 at the Fr. Diego Carceller Hall of San Sebastian College-Recoletos, Manila.

Dr. Isagani Cruz, the resource person during the first day of the conference explained that the DepEd proposed this K-6-4-2 model that includes a year in Kindergarten, six years in elementary, four years in junior high school (or what we now consider high school) and an additional two years in senior high school which will be called grades 11 and 12. The additional two years, according to Cruz, “intends to provide time for students to consolidate acquired academic skills and competencies” through in-depth specialization in different fields depending on the career path the students wish to pursue in the future. Dr. Cruz believes that the two years in Senior High School may be the solution to decongest and enhance the basic education curriculum and will facilitate mutual recognition of Filipino graduates and professionals in other countries; thus, accelerating the country’s economic growth that will provide a strong foundation for long-term developments in our country. For Dr. Cruz, the bottom line is not “how we can cope with K to 12 but how K to 12 can help us.” He

further stressed that K to 12 is not a threat but an opportunity. Atty. Ulpiano “Ulan” Sarmiento talked on the Education Law and the Private Education: Its Possible Implications on the K to 12 Implementation during the second day of conference. For Atty. Sarmineto, quality education as mandated in the Philippine Constitution in Article XIV, Section 1 stressed on making sure that basic education is really solid, because if it is not solid, it affects the quality of secondary education. If secondary education is poor, then the person goes to college unprepared for college work. And if he is allowed to graduate again with poor quality college education, he goes to university professional education even more unprepared.

qualifications for undergraduate programs, technical schools, graduate programs and basic education for deans, principals, faculty members and registrars; and the concerns of teaching loads. The seminar ended with the closing remarks from Rev. Fr. Cris Palomar, OAR, and VP for Religious Affairs on the first day and Rev. Rev. Leander Barrot, OAR, VP for Academic Affairs on the 2nd day. Attendees of the said 2-day seminar are school administrators, faculty members /teachers from SSC-R, Manila, Canlubang, and Cavite City, USJR-Cebu and various universities and basic education schools in Metro Manila. by Dr. Rodrigo F. Ponce Jr.

Since K to 12 program is not yet legislated by the House of Congress, Atty. Sarmiento stressed possible legal implications for its implementation such as on the employment status of academic personnel in relation to the requirements on the full-time and part-time teaching for academic personnel; the minimum academic Crosscurrent

news

SSC-R signs MOA with Kitchen Beauty Marketing Corp. July 1, 2011 marked the signing of the memorandum of agreement between San Sebastian College – Recoletos Manila represented by its College President, Rev. Fr. Anthony A. Morillo, OAR and Kitchen Beauty Marketing Corporation represented by its Vice President, Mr. Nathanael Ong. Kitchen Beauty Marketing Corporation, an importer of home appliances and kitchenware in the Philippines, agreed to accept students from SSC-R Manila as interns in their company to give the students experience in actual office operations and management and to give preference in hiring qualified trainees from SSC-R Manila. Among those present were SSC-R VP for Academics, Rev. Fr. Leander Barrot, OAR; VP for Administration, Rev. Fr. Leonardo Pauligue, OAR,; Corporate Communications Director, Ms. Marygrace Ac-ac; Business Administration Chairperson, Mrs. Rachelle G. Franco; Accountancy Chairperson, Mr. Ignacio Katapang; and SDPC Head, Mrs. Mary Jane Bautista. Mr. Tomas Balete, Assistant General Manager and Ms. Pearl Rose R. Ramos, HR Officer from KBMC were also present during the event. The memorandum of agreement between SSC-R Manila and KBMC was signed in support of SSC-R’s School Company Linkage Program.

Fourth year Computer Science students spearheaded the IT Congress 2011 participated in by a total of 250 students and faculty members from various academic institutions that included the SSC-R Manila, St. Mary’s College, Victorino Mapa High School, Philippine Cultural College, Guadalupe Catholic High School, and the Infant Jesus Academy. Organizers of the event invited various schools in NCR to be the beneficiaries of their IT expertise particularly in the use of Adobe photo shop, Html and multimedia. Backing up on the event is the area of Computer Science/ Information Technology from the College of Accountancy, Business Administration and Computer Studies. The IT Congress was held in San Sebastian College – Recoletos Manila last September 10 of this year.

BSCS Senior Students Spearhead IT Congress 2011

10 SSC-R Manila studes attend IT seminar In line with its promotion of the development of IT Human Resource in Asia, the Information-technology Promotion Agency (IPA) of the Ministry of Economy Trade and Industry (METI) of Japan in cooperation with PhilNITS Foundation, Inc., held a free seminar entitled: “The Value of the FE Certification” last August 26 at the Sapphire Room of Tiara Oriental Hotel, Malugay St., Makati City. This seminar was sponsored by the IPA of Japan. The seminar focused on the IT Skill Area of Management and Strategy as this is one of the areas needing most improvement in the IT Engineers’ skill set. Mr. Kenji Ogawa, an expert on Information Technology Human Resource Development (IT-HRD) and current Vice President of IT-HRD of IPA expounded on the ITEE Certification seminar, assisted by Ms. Ma. Corazon M. Akol, President of PhilNITS Foundation, Inc., and Ms. Antoinette Marcelo, PhilNITS Training Director. The Undersecretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Hon. Fortunato Dela Peña, who is also the current Executive Director of the ICT Office, which was formerly called the Commission on ICT (CICT), was invited as Guest of Honor. Ten SSC-R Manila students attended the event, namely: Mylene Andino, Jinky Umayam, Loren Sevilla, Jake Saturnino, Aldrin Pantilanan, Sia-Cunco, Gabriel del Fonso, Ronnie Fabrigar, Angeline Descalsota, and Crispee Mae Hermocilla

By: Princess Arleen Zamora April-October Issue

Con’t. from page 3

SOLA Enters Into Memorandum of Commitment and Patriotism with POEA Tan, SOLA Supervising Lawyers Ryan Rey S. Quilala and Reynold S. Munsayac, and, SOLA Legal Executive Analyst Ruth L. Balita. A day before the signing of the MOCP at SSC-R, Associate Dean for Student Affairs Josephrally L. Chavez, Jr. attended the formal launching of POEA’s Citizen’s Watch Against Illegal Recruitment and Human Trafficking along with the representatives of other law schools in the Philippines and various cause-oriented groups. While the representatives of the other law schools immediately signed the MOCP at its launching in POEA, Associate Dean Chavez opted to request for a special covenant between POEA and SOLA and instead invited POEA Administrator Carlos Cao to visit SSC-R. Associate Dean Chavez noted that while the other law schools that signed the MOCP at POEA have no active legal aid programs, SSC-R’s legal aid service under the SOLA has long been established and have active law interns that are already handling actual cases in court. Thus, there was a need to fine-tune some provisions of the MOCP to ensure the protection of SSC-R’s law students that will eventually act as law interns at POEA. By virtue of the MOCP, SOLA law interns, who are fourth year students at SSC-R College of Law, will now extend their services at POEA to assist victims of illegal recruitment and human trafficking in preparing complaints. They will also be instrumental in the process of legal documentation to ensure the successful prosecution of illegal recruiters that prey on unfortunate victims, most of whom are Overseas Filipino Workers. These actions are clearly in compliance with SSC-R’s unwavering commitment to scholarship and charity. Under the leadership of Dean Willard B. Riano and SOLA Director and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Ferdinand A. Tan, and considering the first-rate quality of SOLA’s Supervising Lawyers, people may expect great things ahead for SOLA and the entire SSC-R community.

news tidbits

Bulwagang Diego Cera undergoes refurbishing Formerly known simply as the College Auditorium, the Bulwagang Diego Cera not only wears its new name, but shall also don new fabrics as curtains, and generally undergo refurbishing. The change shall ensue this October and is expected to finish by December this year. That would give everyone an opportunity to enjoy new theatrical experiences by January in time for the celebration of the institution’s 65th Foundation Anniversary.

NSTP Annual Training in Mt. Makiling The mystical and mythical boondocks of Makiling shall once again welcome in its embrace the first year NSTP students from the San Sebastian College – Recoletos Manila who shall undergo their annual tyraining program from the 26th to the 28th of November. NSTP students from the SSC-R Canlubang campus and the NSTP faculty shall join them. The training program shall consist of activities that will enable students to learn to survive during crucial times. They shall be trained in first aid, crowd control, fire-making, swimming, among others. The NSTP Director Rev. Fr. Cristopher Maspara, OAR is expected to celebrate mass with the group on their last day in Makiling.

SSC-R Manila buildings named Earlier this year, members of the School Board approved the move to assign names to the various buildings and other significant venues of the institution. The College of Law retains its being dedicated to Saint Augustine. The Administration and Annex Buildings shall now be referred to as the Saint Sebastian Building; the College and Grade School Building, Saint Monica Building; the High SchoolBuilding shall bear the name Saint Ezekiel Building. The College Auditorium was also assigned a name, and now shall be called the Bulwagang Diego Cera or the Diego Cera Hall, while the Little Theater shall be called Bulwagang Carceller or the Carceller Hall, in honor of Fr. Domingo Carceller, OAR. The main library shall now be called Villanova Library, as it has been dedicated to St. Thomas Villanova. Crosscurrent

president’s report On Linkages The school pursues more linkages. She believes that partnership with industry and business firms keep the school abreast with the current trends in the corporate world and attuned to the developments of the industry ensuring enrichment to curricular offering classroom discussions and student experience.

Upgrading of Facilities For the forthcoming Academic Year 2011-2012, the administration is committed to uplift the Academic standard even more. Steps taken towards this direction are the updating of the curricula, strengthening the faculty line-up, improving services to students and providing better if not the best educational facilities.

Memoranda of Agreement (MOA) were inked with business processing companies, games and amusement entities, airlines and sea luxury lines, hospitality and tourism establishments, and software solution companies. These groups of company bring industry to the classroom and the students closer to their future real-world. For the Academic Year 2010-2011, we renewed partnership with American Hospitality Academy (AHA) and Amadeus. Additional linkages were with ZIP travel and Tours for US internship, Astoria Plaza Suite hotel, Golden Arches Development Corporation, Philippine National bank, IBM Business Services, Inc., Sykes Asia, Inc and Philippine National IT Standards Foundation. The College of Law has tie-up with the POEA (Philippine Overseas Employment Agencies). Among the benefits of partnership initiatives are technical skills upgrading, curricular improvement, cross-teaching, expertise channelling, employment assurance, faculty development and exposure, brand prestige acquisition and affiliations, service and facilities improvement, benchmarking and other innumerable advantages.

The improvements and renovations done for the Academic Year 2009-2010 were continued--the repainting of buildings and changing of roofings, construction of the CIHM laboratories, installation of the fire protection units, repairing of the College of Law (COL) classrooms and installation of projectors in the classrooms of the Grade School, High School and Collegiate levels. In addition to the digitalization of records done in the Registrar’s Office, in the previous Academic Year 2009-2010, the management has signed an agreement with Banco de Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO). The BDO through its transaction banking group (TBG), is now providing San Sebastian College access to its payment collection system through which all students and parents can conveniently pay their tuition via the more-than 700 BDO branches nationwide, 1,300 automated teller machines, internet banking, phone banking, and credit or debit cards at the SSC-R cashier. For parents working abroad, payments through the many overseas remittance partners of BDO would soon be available. The Bank’s service allows more options which give convenience to both companies and its payees.

Recoletos Review Center The Recoletos Law Review Center is now the fastest growing law review center in the country. From a mere 63 enrollees in 2003, it ballooned to 457 in 2004. The figure soared up to 1,070 this year. Atty. Willard Riano, Dean of the College of Law (COL) was proud to report during the Annual Institutional Planning held at the Astoria Hotel on January 18, 2011 that the center was ranked 7th in Highest Passing Percentage on 2007 Bar Examination.

Another bold stride of the administration was the acquisition of two second-hand buses which proved to be very helpful to the entire institution. These buses are used for the retreats and other activities with big participants. This acquisition in some ways helped the school save some amounts intended for hiring vehicles for different purposes. Presently, SSC-R has four buses. As a development, the small bus is now assigned in Canlubang Campus.

In the recently released 2010 Bar Examination results, three Recoletos Bar reviewees from the University of the Philippines (UP) placed 6th and 7th. Meanwhile, about 49 Sebastinian law graduates successfully passed the exams and were among the 982 passers out of 4,847 examinees. Since 2003, the Recoletos Bar Review Center has produced bar topnotchers. Today, it has already placed 13 reviewees to the Top Ten Bar Passers, two conquering the number one slot in separate bar exams--Judy Lardizabal (2008) and Reinier Paul R. Yebra (2009). The others are Henry Francisco - 9th Placer (2003), Charlito Martin R. Mendoza – 3rd Placer (2004), Nyerson Dexter Tito Q. Tualla – 4th Placer (2005), Gina Lyn R. Rubio – 5th Placer (2006), Karen S. Canullas – 6th Placer (2007), Marforth T. Fua – 8th Placer (2007), Vanessa C. Raymundo – 10th Placer (2008), Charlene Mae C. Tapic – 2nd Placer (2009). Re-opening of SSC-R- IBP Surigao College of Law After several meetings, the School Board endorsed to the Board of Trustees the decision to re-open the operations of the College of Law extension program in Surigao City. A renewed vigor of commitment between the Administration of San Sebastian with the officers of the Integrate Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Surigao chapter was translated into signing of the MOA. Since its opening in June of 2010, SSC-R-IBP administrators continuously coordinate with the Manila office for all their academic and administrative endeavors.

April-October Issue

Con’t. from page 4 young hearts and youthful minds. Education a Common Responsibility The speaker at the very onset of the conference underscored the fact that education is not a responsibility only of the administrators or the faculty members--it is a shared responsibility of the whole Sebastinian family from the administration to the personnel including the family members of the students even if they are not directly connected to the institution. It is imperative therefore that academic and non-academic activities be organized in such a way that the lateral communication – a communication of teamwork based on respect, of collaboration rooted in love, and of mutual assistance built on the core values of the institution – be made manifest. Marks of an Authentic Education

cover story with the divine. We are born for dialogue and communion, the speaker stressed. Education, to be integral and holistic, needs to have (among others) the following characteristics: (a) Openness to Knowledge. The school is a place where mentors help open the minds of students to various ideas. Augustine underlines this belief when he said, “Ideas and thought are the nourishment of the mind since it is through these that the mind gets to know things” (De beata vita 8). Likewise, the same education must configure the heart to have the sense of gratitude, not simply to the agents of love but to

(c) Development of the Potentials of Persons. As education is not an end in itself but a means toward a good life of happiness, so education must transform students holistically. From the church’s perspective, education is to develop the personality of the young and to allow them to “grow in the life given them in baptism” (Gravissimus Educationis no. 8.). They, at the end of formative years, are to be prepared to become effective contributors to the building up of the welfare of humanity. Some Practical Tips for People Engaged in Education The speaker himself who is an educator by profession and has had long years of experience in administrative positions dishes out some practical tips to those working in the field of education.

“Year of the Recollect Education: An Engagement”

On the practical side, education is a passage towards autonomy. In essence, one needs to clearly define what this autonomy consists of. Education is a way out of poverty, ignorance, and from many other disadvantages in life. We hear testimonies of parents that the greatest legacy they would give to their children is nothing less than a quality education. From the vantage point of the church, education is not an end in itself. It is a stepping stone towards the integral and holistic formation of the person centered on the development of Christian values and critical discernment of principles. Most importantly, education is the means toward authentic dialogue and communion

life and the author of life Himself. (b) Passion for Truth. Truth comes in various forms and is sought through various means. Evasive though truth might be today, there are creedal rules we need to bear in mind. St. Augustine mentions one: “truth is neither mine nor yours but the patrimony of all” (Ennar. In Ps 75:17). This confession simply underlines further the communal dimension in our search for truth. Nobody has the monopoly of it, thus the need for each one to listen to the version, story and side of everybody to approximate the bigger truth. Especially in an academic institution, all become co-learners and co-students.

(a) Do not make your life slaves to what you do. While it is true that educators live by deadlines, and the pressure that come with beating them take a toll on their person physically, morally, socially and spiritually, mentors must learn to take time for themselves and evaluate their life equation. If in the list of daily tasks “work” always remains the first, one needs to re-organize his life-list priorities.

(b) Silent and Listen – one word, one life. There is a symbiotic relationship between these two words. The depth of one’s capacity to be silent is his ability to listen and vise versa. Because of this parallel relationship, silence is the most powerful means of communication. Technology has de-personalized communications. Children greet Con’t on page 31 Crosscurrent

literary malayang tapon Joey Vargas

‘yang mapagpalayang malayang tapon sa isang free throw ay parang acting. kailangang namnamin, ramdamin ang pulso ng character. ang beat nito ay parang ritmo na likha ng paa ng kabayo: nagpapakaba, nagpapakabog sa puso.

sukatin ang bawat plano – muli, ang pulso, ang ritmo – timbangin ang maraming bakit at paano. buuin sa kaisipan ang buong sanlibutan ng dula, huwag kumawala, mawawala.

kapag napasok ang mundo ng likha, at malasap ang silakbo ng pulso, mapusok, walang atubiling upang maabot ang pag-intinding ito, pumasok; malayang itapon ang bawat salita; kailangan ang matamang umasam tamang pagpakalma na sa lakas at sukat ng pagtapon, ng bawat kalamnan walang mintis, at kasu-kasuan; ‘di lilihis. ang maling tensyon sa katawan, ... dumaloy tiyak sisira magpatuloy…. sa daloy ng dula. kailangan ang pagsunod sa daloy ng diwa ng tauhan sa kuwentong isinasadula. para itong pagmamasahe ng likod, pagsunod sa mga dugtong ng backbone na nag-uugnay sa ulo sa bewang. kailangan din tuntunin, akuin, angkinin ang tinutungo ng bawat libog at silakbo, ng sidhi at mithi ng tao sa kuwento.

April-October Issue

Anatomiya ng Bulong Joey Vargas

1. sa ilang pagkakataon mainam ang bulong malakas kesa orasyon 2. ang usang mailap sa isang bulong nahuhulog sa bitag 3. at nang lumaon halaga ng bulong natututunan ng leon

literary bawat pangungusap ay usisa bawat plano ay pino bawat pag-asam ay pag-asa walang masisisi plano binusisi usapang masinsinan pumapalya minsan layong malinaw sidhi pumapanaw

isang masinsinang usapang pang-usa Joey Vargas 1. aral laro aral + laro = arallaro (ar)(all)(aro) = (all)(ar)(aro) (all) [(ar)(aro)] (ar)(aro) araro araro n. plow, plough. mas mainam marahil mag-araro nang may pakinabang. 2. laro aral laro + aral = laroaral laroaral (la)(ro)(ar)(al) la(roar)al [(la)(al)][(ro)(ar)] [(al)(la)][(roar)] (a)(la)(roar) a la roar a la roar parang atungal gawain ng hayop asal ng hayop pag-atungal

ang palyado pihadong dehado ang tumalikod marapat ibukod ang humiwalay walang sungay

3. aralan laruan aralan + laruan = aralanlaruan

5. laruan aralan laruan + aralan = laruanaralan

aralanlaruan: katunog ng taguan pagtago sa magulang pagtago ng kakulangan pagtago ng kalokohan kahibangan

laruanaralan (la)(ru)(an)(a)(ra)(lan) la - salitang Espanyol; sa Ingles, “the”

sa ‘yong naglalaro sa klase…. Joey Vargas

4. laruan aralan laruan + aralan = laruanaralan laruanaralan (la)[(ru)(an)(a)(ra)](lan) [(la)(lan)][(ru)(an)(a)(ra)] [(la)(lan)] (la)(lan) la lan la lan kalapit ng “’la lang” na pagpapaikli ng “wala lang” kawalan ng pakialam kawalan ng alam kawalan

ru - nakakapagpaalala ng salitang “rue,” nangangahulugan ng pagsisisi, pagtanggap ng pagkakamali. an - kung dagdagan ng letrang “d,” mabubuo ang salitang “and.” a - artikulong gamit para sa isa kung ipagsama ang ra at lan, maaaring “relent” ang maalala: pagpapakumbaba, pagpaparaya, pagpapaubaya. (la)(ru)(an)(a)[(ra)(lan)] the rue and a relent = ang pagsisisi at isang pagpapaubaya

magsisisi muna saka magpapaubaya. lagi, ang pagsisisi nasa huli; nagawa na ang pagkakamali.

Crosscurrent

literary

sa batang lansanganâ&#x20AC;Ś. Joey Vargas

Wala akong himig na makapagpapatahan sa hikbi ng iyong mga himutok,

o tinig na makaaampat sa lagablab ng apoy ng iyong hinanakit; walang panyong maaaring pumawi sa mga luha ng iyong pait,

Anak ng Diyos Joey Vargas

tinawid niya ang kalsada ng Binondo malapit sa Starbucks, nagtutulak ng kariton ng basura at ng damo. nakihilera siya sa mga katawang tila bangkay sa bangketa, sa labas ng lumang sinehan sa tapat ng simbahan ng Quiapo.

o inuming makatitighaw sa uhaw sa pag-aaruga;

inaalok niya ang kanyang katawan at laman sa bawat dumaan sa kalagitnaan ng gabi sa kalagitnaan ng daan ng Recto.

wala akong balikat na maaaring maging sandalan ng pagal mong kasaysayan,

tumatakbo siya, duguan, hawak ang isang mahabang tubo na ipinampalo niya sa ulo ng isang batang hinahabol sa gitna ng gang war sa Morayta.

o mga palad na maaaring humagod at humilom sa mga sugat ng iyong pighati; wala akong brasong maaaring yumakap at umako ng iyong mga takot, o pusong maaaring magpatunaw sa talim ng mga tinik na tinutusok ng iyong mga titig.

Kung ang tula

ay may kakayahang maging sinapupunan, nanaisin kong akuin ka at aluin ng aking mga titik at talinghaga. Marahil, maaaring ang bawat taludtod ay maging ugat na daluyan ng mga ideyang maaaring dugong huhugas sa iyong mga takot at galit, na parang mga bolang apoy na tumutupok sa iyong ulirat at pag-asam.

inaaninag niya ang mga matang walang nakikita inaapuhap ang kanilang mga paningin sa pamamalimos sa labas ng bintana ng Jollibee sa Legarda. kasama siya ng tatlong babaeng halos hubad na nakatago habang pinapalipas ang gutom at tinatangkang lumimot, sumisinghot ng rugby sa lilim ng isang puno sa labas lamang ng FEU. anim na buwang sanggol siyang natutulog, habang umuulan, sa ibabaw ng kariton sa bangketang kakabit lamang ng UE. pinunasan niya ang katawan ng apo, pinaypayan upang makatulog, sa maalikabok na daan sa labas lamang ng BDO, katabi ng Mister Donut na kakabit ng Colegio de San Sebastian. hawak niya ang larawan ng asawang nawawala at isang kandila habang nakikinig sa nagsasalita gamit ang megaphone sa isang mobilisasyon sa Mendiola, malapit sa CEU. sinimot niya ang kaunting lamang naiwan sa mga buto ng manok na natagpuan sa madaliang pagkalkal ng basurang nakatambak bago pa kunin ng mga basurero - hatinggabi sa gilid ng kolehiyo ng San Beda.

Bakasakaling ang bawat pantig

ay maging pintig ng pulso at pusong nagsisimula nang itigil ang pagtibok sa pag-unawa.

Bakasakaling makita mo ang buhay hindi bilang isang sakuna.

April-October Issue

MaynilaJ

oey

bawat kanto kubeta; bawat kubeta kama.

Vargas

bawat sulok basura; bawat basura lamesa.

Gutom

(isang dulang dagli) Joey Vargas

literary may simbahan, dun sa may simbahan ng Bustillos? Maghahanap ‘yun…. TATAY : Wala naman siyang mapagtatanungan.

Tatay - 40s, nasa ibabang bahagi ng entablado. Nag aayos ng lubid. Anak - 20s, naghuhugas ng patalim. TAGPUAN: Lansangan. Maynila. TATAY : Gumalaw ba? ANAK :

Napakislot nang konti, ‘tay. Hindi ko kasi namalayang tabla pala ang tinulugan niya. Lumangitngit nang konti nung lumuhod ako palapit sa kanya.

(patlang) ANAK : Tama ba ‘to, tay? Pa’no tayo pagkatapos nito? TATAY : Tama lang ‘to. Wala nang mali, wala nang tama. Ang tanong na lang, kung may pag-asa pa… o kung may aasahan pa. Ang sagot lagi, wala.

ANAK :

Dun kasi siya lagi pumupunta kapag wala na talaga siya mahingan ng limos, ‘tay. Kaya siguradong maghahanap yung ale. Una, magtataka…. Saka maghahanap….

TATAY : Hindi siya maghahanap. May hinahanap pa din siya. Mas mahalaga yun sa kanya. ANAK : Ano, ‘tay? Ano’ng hinahanap niya? TATAY : May hinahanap siyang mas mahalaga sa kanya kesa mga bagay na hindi niya naman ari o hindi niya naman talaga mapakikinabangan. Lahat ng tao, anak, pera ang hanap. Yun ang bumubuhay sa tao. (Patlang)

TATAY : Nakakain ka ba? Nakakain ka na?

TATAY :

ANAK : Kailangan pa ba, ‘tay? (may pait na ngiti)

ANAK : Naging linta din ba tayo, ‘tay?

TATAY :

(patlang)

Kumain ka. Nagawan ko pa rin namang paghirapang madala ‘yan dito (ituturo ang isang garbage bag na may laman) . Nakuha ko sa may McDo, sa kanto, sa Recto. Sayang. Wala na namang kakain niyan.

(Lalapit sa garbage bag ang anak. Mangangalkal. Kakain.) ANAK : Kain po, ‘tay. (Maikling katahimikan. Lalapit ang ama. Uupo sa tabi ng anak. Susubo nang konti. Bahagyang titingnan ang anak.) TATAY : Natatakot ka ba? ANAK : Kung… kung takot ang dahilan ng panginginig ng aking mga kasu-kasuan, ‘tay… siguro nga po natatakot ako…. TATAY : Bakit ka matatakot?

Ganun dito. Kailangan praktikal. Kailangan kakapit ka sa taong maaaring may mabigay sa yo. Kailangan matuto kang maging linta. Dumikit. Sumipsip sa dugo, sa buhay ng mga tao… para ka mabuhay. Eto ang maynila: kubeta ng bansa.

(Matatahimik sa ilang minuto) Hindi. Tae tayo, anak. Suka. Mga itinatapon ng tao. Pinandidirihan. Nilalayuan. Paminsan-minsan, naaapakan. Pero ang sasabihin lang nila… hindi nila sinasadya. Magagalit sila sa atin. Mandidiri. Kumbakit naman kasi… kung saan-saan tayo nakakalat.

(Patlang. Lalayo ang ama. Babalikan ang inaayos na lubid.) TATAY : Bilisan mo na diyan. Kailangan nating bilisan. ANAK : (Malumanay) Opo, ‘tay. (Katahimikan. Babalikan ng anak ang pagpapatalas ng kutsilyo. Sa ilang saglit, ibibigay ng anak ang patalim sa kanyang ama.) TATAY : Tapos ka na ba diyan sa ginagawa mo? Handa na ba ‘yan? ANAK : Wala na ba talagang ibang paraan, ‘tay?

ANAK : Pa’no po, ‘tay, kung may maghanap sa kanya? TATAY : Nakausap ko na ang bawat araw, bawat gabing Ano ang sasabihin ko? dumaan, anak. Walang kasagutan. Mahiga ka na. TATAY : Wala namang nakakakilala sa kanya. Walang nakakakilala sa atin. Con’t. on page 23 ANAK : Pa’no yung aleng lagi niyang pinupuntahan sa Crosscurrent 19

features SSC-R Manila Center for Culture and the Arts The Arts, history of various cultures witnesses, capture the human experience. They are able to express truths about humankind that may be difficult to express any other way. They have the power to elevate the soul and the human psyche to a plane beyond the physical. In art, various individuals of various backgrounds, creed, and race are able to commune and be able to speak in a language that all understand. Thus, the arts may be perceived as unifying and able to edify the human soul. Some would even state that the arts comprise the soul of society. In this light, the years 2011 and 2012 shall be remembered in the history of San Sebastian College-Recoletos Manila because the members of the board – largely conscious of the value of arts and culture to human formation – unanimously approved the creation of the SSC-R Manila Center for Culture and the Arts. This historical leap was done February of 2011. Below is the first part of the proposal submitted to and approved by the board: 1. PROJECT TITLE: Creation of the San Sebastian College – Recoletos Manila Center for Culture and the Arts 2. PROJECT BACKGROUND: The proposal stems from the need to have a collective, organized process of setting the direction of culture and the arts development in San Sebastian College – Recoletos Manila. Its creation shall also determine the role of SSC-R Manila in the protection, pre servation, and promotion of Philippine arts and culture; and identify its niche in the international cultural scene. Quite naturally, it shall also work to present arts and culture as gifts from God and as very potent instruments for evangelization. 3. PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The Center for Culture and the Arts (CCA), as the name suggests, shall focus on the development of culture and the arts in the institution. It shall coordinate the artistic efforts of the various units or individuals within the school. It shall also work to establish linkages with various institutions, groups, or individuals working with similar advocacies in both local and international environments. Among others, the CCA may work towards the following: a. Research Development Faculty and staff, or students may be encouraged to venture into researches that deal with arts and culture. The school is very much strategically-placed when it comes to history and aesthetics. The school must have seen (and must have involved in) important national events considering that it belongs to the university belt and its location is very near Mendiola. Also important to note is that it is adjacent and properly connected to a national heritage, the San Sebastian Basilica. Placed between these two historically- and culturally-recognized places – Mendiola and San Sebastian Basilica – the San Sebastian College may serve as a fount of stories. One may be sure to find many inspirations for research when it comes to culture and the arts. b. Academic Laboratory Arm The CCA may also serve as a laboratory arm especially for subjects dealing with various forms of art: architecture, dance, music, literature, theater, media arts, visual arts, and even culinary arts. This means that the CCA may come up with activities or productions, or provide materials that may supplement the lessons in said academic subjects. It may, for instance, serve as a laboratory arm for Mass Communication students learning the rigors of the performing arts; or for Psychology and Political Science understanding human behavior and the movement of the human psyche; for all students enrolled in Humanities subjects; or for students understanding aesthetics; or for students taking up dance under human kinetics subjects.

April-October Issue

features c. Repertory Building The CCA may also work towards the creation of a repertory arm, or performing arts groups. It may train and manage a choir or other music groups, dance troupes, and a dramatic guild. These groups may be exposed to various aesthetics theories and various performance techniques. The groups shall also be exposed to other groups’ performances. They may also be able to participate in festivals local and international; thus, being able to experience skills and aesthetic exchanges. d. Establish Linkages The CCA may work towards the establishment of relationships with various arts and culture institutions, groups, and individuals such as the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, Cultural Center of the Philippines, Sentro ng Wikang Filipino, PETA, LIRA, Ballet Philippines, Ballet Manila, Philippine Bayanihan Dance Company, Philippine Madrigal Singers, and others.

Among the many aspects of the proposal submitted, and after the awakening of the consciousness and desire to develop the artistic and aesthetic culture of the community, the following were then later accomplished. Bulwagang Diego Cera The proposal included the recommendation to name the college auditorium; thus, resulting to the board naming it Bulwagang Diego Cera or the Diego Cera Hall, in honor of Rev. Fr. Diego Cera dela Virgen del Carmen of the Order of the Augustinian Recollects (OAR), who was influential in the creation of the world-renowned Bamboo Organ in Las Piñas. International University Theater Association (Philippine Chapter) The school has also become part of the pioneering members of the Philippine Chapter of the International University Theater Association, and participated in the International University Theater Festival held last July 16 to 24 at the Miriam College in Quezon City. This established networking and linkages with local and international institutions and individual artists. Conference on Theater Aesthetics The school was also represented in the “TANGHALIN ANG TANGHALAN: 1st National Conference on Theater Aesthetics” held last September at the Cultural Center of the Philippines. PAGkain Ilaw tuBIG An experimental production was staged at the Hot and Cold Kitchen of the College of International Hospitality Management, with various students from San Sebastian College acting, and with members of the Culinarians cooking adobo (and doing a bit of acting as well).

*** In relation to the goal of developing the repertory arms of the school, the following have also been done. San Sebastian Recollect Dance Troupe The San Sebastian Recollect Dance Troupe has been undergoing re-structuring and re-directing, being molded to become one of the official ambassadors of goodwill of SSC-R Manila and the official dance company of the institution. Guided by this direction, members of the group underwent trainings with young dance directors Ana Theresa Labella and Erik Javier. Ms. Labella is a dance major graduate of the Philippine High School for the Arts and a BA in Communication Arts graduate of UP Los Baños. She already has a number of productions to her credit. Mr. Javier is presently making a name for himself as one of the much sought-after and respected choreographers in the country. He recently joined The Crew and, with the group, represented the country in the World Hip-hop International, a dance competition held in Las Vegas. He is also presently connected with other established choreographers of the world. As part of the process of developing the SSRDT as one of the dance community in the country, the group also participated in the annual Skechers Street Dance Competition held last October. The group also performed an Erik Javier choreography Crosscurrent

features during the UPLB Street Jazz Dance Company’s dance concert entitled, “VERVE 3: Behind L.I.E.S.” Said concert was held at the DL Umali Auditorium of UPLB, and was directed by Joey Vargas who sits as the Coordinator of the SSC-R Manila Center for Culture and the Arts. Part of the aforementioned process of molding the group as an ambassador of goodwill, being the official dance company of the institution, the members of the San Sebastian Recollect Dance Troupe are made to undergo trainings in the various forms of dance and exposed to various theories of performance and personality development. SSC-R Manila Terpsichorean Club The high school dance repertory arm, the SSC-R Manila Terpsichorean Club, ably advised by Mrs. Joy Galang, also presently takes its artistic direction from the Center for Culture and the Arts. For the competitions the group joined such as those in Bacolod and Baguio, the members of this particular group underwent trainings with choreographers Louie Canaria and Vincent Jeff Godoy. In Bacolod, they participated in the 1st REAP Dance Competition and placed second; while in Baguio, they placed third among the competitors for the CMLI Dance Fusion. The group is also in the process of establishing its organizational culture and process as a distinct art company. Sebastinian Arts Society Another organization now taking its artistic direction from the SSC-R Manila CCA is the Sebastinian Arts Society, which recently staged an elegant showcase of talents entitled “SASionistas.” Arts Exposures Various students undergoing training with the SSC-R Manila CCA shall also be exposed to art exhibits at the Cultural Center of the Philippines and at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, and to stage productions such as that of Agnes Locsin’s “Encantada” in CCP by the Ballet Philippines , “Romeo and Juliet” of the Philippine Ballet Theater at the University of the East Theater, a Layeta Bucoy Filipino adaptation of William Shakespeare’s “Titus Andronicus” by the Dulaang UP, and Layeta Bucoy’s “Doc Resureccion: Gagamutin ang Bayan” by members of the theater company of PUP. February: National Arts Month As a way of celebrating the National Arts Month, the SSC-R Manila Center for Culture and the Arts prepares some exciting major productions. First, there shall be another experimental production in collaboration with the SSC-R Manila Culinarians, which is under the guidance of Chefs Benedicto Bernardo and Vernier Miranda. This second venture shall explore the possibilities of identifying parallelisms and symbolisms among chocolates, chili, and love. Interestingly, the production shall be staged on the 14th of February. Second, few days after that, on the 17th and 18th of February, the SSC-R Manila CCA, in cooperation with the Campus Ministry Office, shall be staging “Late Have I Loved You (First Part of the Life of Saint Augustine)”. This shall be an opportunity for members of the production to be able to work with other experienced and established artists such as Mele Yamomo (who did the music composition and orchestration), Luther Gumia (lights design), Ana Theresa Labella (dance), Oscar Laborem AdiaoGarcia (stage management), Kulay Labitigan (set and costume design), and others. The libretto was written by Joey Vargas. Third, on the 24th of the same month, the Sebastinian Arts Society and the San Sebastian Recollect Dance Troupe are collaborating in staging a launching concert entitled “Soiree.” The event shall revolve around the concept of a party celebrating two debutantes.

*** The work may seem daunting, but as the Chinese philosopher Laozi (c 604 BC – c 531 BC) wrote: a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. This year, the San Sebastian College – Recoletos Manila did not only make a single step, but moved seemingly in a stride and leapt towards establishing itself as a center for excellence when it comes to arts and culture.

April-October Issue

features

BSTM freshmen Tours Corregidor

“Corregidor is a living legacy of what the Americans once stood for in the Philippines. Corregidor is the island that leads into ManilaBay that was the headquarters for the US military during America’s colonization of the Philippines. It is one of the rarest living memorials of World War II. Any historian and even students would really appreciate the amazing footprints left from this war,” this is the reason why the College of International Hospitality Management decided to have their first tour for the SY 2011-2012, Mrs. Bambi Caluza claimed in an interview. 121 freshmen visited Corregidor Island last July 23 and July 24, 2011. Divided into two batches, 21students visited the island on July 23 while the remaining 80 students on the 24th.121 freshmen visited Corregidor Island last July 23 and July 24, 2011. Divided into two batches, 21students visited the island on July 23 while the remaining 80 students on the 24th. Ms, Isabelle Santos, the SSCR Travel Laboratory assistant headed the first batch, while Ms. Vanessa Herbese and Ms. Lea Lajara, members of the faculty of CIHM headed the second batch. The students visited the different sites on the island, such as the Lighthouse, the Topside and Middleside Barracks, the President Manuel L. Quezon Park, Malinta Tunnel, to name a few. The island is divided into these three parts: Topside, Middleside, and Bottomside. The topside consists mostly of the fortifications and is where most batteries are located, the most famous bunch of which are Battery Way (which was named in honor of 2nd Lieutenant Henry N. Way of the 4th U.S. Artillery who died in service in the Philippines in 1900. Reluctant at first, students were not able to hide their feelings

of amazement over the things that they have seen especially the batteries. Mang Ramon who served as the tour guide knows Corregidor by heart. He explained every details of the place. In the meantime, Malinta Tunnel highlighted the tour. “The Malinta Tunnel served as the seat of the Philippine Government during the time of Quezon. At the vicinity of the tunnel’s west entrance in the afternoon of Dec 30, 1941, Manuel Quezon and Sergio Osmena were inaugurated into their second term respectively as president and vice-president of the Philppine Commonwealth in simple ceremonies attended by members of the garrison.Now, visitors can experience the Malinta Tunnel through the Lights and Sounds Show called “The MalintaExperience”.Scripted by national artist and film director LambertoAvellana and sculptures made by national artist Napoleon Abueva, the show is a re-enactment of World War II’s dramatic events”, Mang Ramon expounded. Sumptuous meals were served before the participants went back to Manila.

literary

Con’t. from page 19 (Susunod ang anak. Sisimulan ng ama ang pagtatali sa anak.) TATAY : Napakislot ba ang kapatid mo, nung ginagapos mo siya? ANAK : Nagtanong siya, ‘tay, kung bakit. Maraming bakit. TATAY : Ano’ng sabi mo? ANAK :

Sabi ko, para ‘di na siya magutom. Sabi ko… sa pupuntahan niya pagkatapos, hindi na kakalam ang sikmura niya. Hindi na siya iiyak, ‘tay. Hindi na siya masasaktan dahil pinagtatabuyan siya ng mga tao. Pero natakot siya, ‘tay. Nakita niya kasi siguro yong takot sa mga mata ko.

TATAY : Ano’ng ginawa mo? ANAK : (Habang pinipiringan ng ama.) Tinakpan ko ang mga mata niya, ‘tay. Piniringan ko siya. TATAY : (Inaangat ang patalim) Wag kang matakot, ‘nak. ANAK : Wala na ang takot, itay. (Sasaksakin ng ama ang anak.) TABING

Crosscurrent

news features INQUISITIVE PREMONITION DURING THE SHORT VISIT One of the best activities lined up at SOLA is the semestral jail visiting and paralegal service. With too much excitement and anticipation, this kind of exposure is much awaited every semester by law interns as they have a chance to interview different personalities behind the secluded walls of Camp Bagong Diwa, Bicutan, Taguig. Aside from the jail warden and jail guards, the crux of the visit is on the inmates, their condition behind bars and their stories. The pilot jail visiting and paralegal service of SOLA was done last January 20, 2011. For the said activity, twenty-eight anxious law interns were accompanied by yours truly and Atty. Gemylito Festin, Supervising Lawyer of SOLA. Along the way from the guarded gate of Camp Bagong Diwa, the service bus was routinely checked by several police officers. Upon showing the appropriate supporting documents for the visit, entry had never been a problem. It was a pleasant trip inside the camp. Vast tracts of land with trees neatly placed and some greenery reminded visitors how nice it was to be free from the traffic and buzzing life in the metro. At the onset, law interns had mixed feelings upon seeing the towering walls of the penal institution. Some were excited and others were clueless. Nonetheless, the objective was pursued. The small prison cells were like apartment-units less the comfort that they gives. Barricades were strategically placed as there were jail guards in every corner. Interestingly, the hardcore tattooed inmates were in a more controlled place. The air within was very much different. It was humid unlike the one experienced in the somewhat incidental joyride from the Bicutan gate. There was a community in there. Truly, it was a second home to

April-October Issue

some but more of an endless burden to others. Mobility within is allowed but is limited in most aspects. Afar from the usual bookish things read, this is the real thing. This is real life. Inmates are real people with real stories, up-close and personal. It was good to be informed though, that high-risk prisoner with high profile cases were kept separate from the tamed ones giving us a sense of relief all throughout the paralegal session. SJO1 Chona Seno, Chief Inmates Welfare and Development (IWD) was very accommodating to give us a tour within the premises. After the tour, time was generous to allow two paralegal sessions. There were, however, several jail guards on the background to ensure our safety. A session was held in the morning and another around two in the afternoon. About one hundred and forty inmates benefitted from the free legal aid service. Shared snacks among inmates, law interns and jail guards followed. Everyone feasted on the ordered and delivered fast food which was normally not preferred if options were available elsewhere. Bicutan too has its own pride just like the you-tube favorite dancing inmates from Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC). Grateful inmates from Bicutan prepared a dance number for the law interns. Despite the heat of the burning sunlight at the open court, there was dancing with performance level escalating. No trace of legal issues could ever be detected. All were amused. Amid the tiring and seemingly hopeless façade, the altruistic feeling after the short visit wall in all immeasurable.

Ruth L. Balita Exec. Legal Analyst, SOLA

CABACS lends a hand to the elderly San Sebastian CollegeRecoletos celebrated its 58th CABACS Week with a theme “Towards Diversity, Globalization and Technology” from September 5 to 10. As an expression of the School’s commitment to providing assistance to the most vulnerable people, the faculty members and some selected students extended their resources to the elderly residents of Hospicio de San Jose, a care facility that caters to male and female senior citizens 60 years old and above located near the Ayala Bridge, Quiapo, Manila. The efforts to be of assistance to them may seem little, but the joy that goes with the donation created a tremendous impact on the lives of the elderly residents. The event was led by CABACS Dean Lolita De Guzman and Rev. Fr. Nemesio Tolentin, with the assistance of fulltime faculty members and officers of CABACS Federation who volunteered their time to hand out various goods to the elders. This community outreach gave everyone an extraordinary opportunity to learn about oneself and others, allowing each individual to use one’s gifts and talents to serve the greater good. Alma Galvez

features AREA OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION INTERNATIONAL TOUR (Hong Kong and Shenzhen, China) 2011 The Business Administration (BA) Department of the College of Accountancy, Business Administration and Computer Studies (CABACS) offered subjects that are internationally inclined namely International Management, International Marketing and Global Finance. It is intended to familiarize the students with the principles and practices of global marketing, management and finance. It examines cross-cultural and international management issues and analyzes the problems of managing in an international marketplace. The topics include the scope and challenges of international marketing, the cultural environment of global marketing and the corporate context of it. However, learning should not only be done within the four walls of SSC-R classrooms. Students needed to experience the true meaning of their courses. Having the vision and mission of producing students that are globally competitive individuals that are ready to meet the needs and demands of local and global communities imbued with Augustinian Recollect values, the BA Department conducted international tours which started a year ago. This tour helps the students understand the dimensions of international business activities; appreciate the significance of the international environment; explain how external cultures affect marketing and management; develop skills relevant to managers of multinational corporations, as well as those operating in other dimensions of business; and maintain an awareness of global dimensions such as standardization and differentiation, and understand how firms select their policies. www.google.com Last year, the BA department (together with the Computer Science department) went to Singapore. It was the first trip out of the country and it proved remarkable. For this reason, another international tour was organized. Last October 8-11 this year, the students of Business Administration went to Hong Kong and Shenzhen, China. It was a four-day educational field trip filled with new knowledge and enjoyable events. The tour was guided and facilitated by our priest administrator, Rev. Fr. Arnel Diaz and the Area Chairperson for Business Administration, Mrs. Rachelle G. Franco. Their departure for Hong Kong was in the morning of the first day. Upon arrival in Hong Kong they did their City Tour followed by checking in at the hotel. Orientation on the different establishments and transportation in Hong Kong was given in the evening. On the same night they watched the Symphony of Light at the Business District of Hong Kong. The second day was spent in Shenzhen. The students were taught that Shenzhen provides business opportunities in China due to the peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proper discipline, nationalism and care for their environment. Different business establishments were also visited by the students. On the morning of the third day the group went to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. They learned about the history of trading in Hong Kong and the secret behind the success of the traders. Students were excited to roam around the building and also fortunate to experience by themselves the process inside the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. In the afternoon, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region or known to be the investors in Hong Kong conducted a seminar on how Hong Kong explores new opportunities. The students were glad to learn about strategies made by the Chinese business people. Pure learning is boring in nature. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why the fourth day was their time to relax and enjoy. Some students went to the Hong Kong Ocean Park; some enjoyed the feeling of being kids again in Disney Land and some spent their money in shopping malls around the city. It was a bittersweet moment for them in the evening because it was the time to say goodbye to Hong Kong. Students left Hong Kong filled with knowledge that is surely helpful for them in the future to achieve success. This proves that San Sebastian College-Recoletos is one of the institutions in the country that produces globally competitive students. Crosscurrent

news Soriano wins in TOSM 2011 Scout Arvin S. Soriano, VI- St. Augustine pupil and Troup Tribe, was chosen as one of the Ten Outstanding Scouts of Manila by the Manila Council. The Awarding Ceremony was held last October 7 at the Manila Council headquarter. A Second Class Scout, Soriano was awarded a medal and a certificate. Currently, he is one of the candidates for honors. He was awarded Outstanding Pupil in Grade 5. As a diligent pupil, he was consistently awarded first honor in his former school. The TOSM search was participated in by Boy and Senior Scouts from private and public schools all over Manila City. Soriano and the rest of the aspirants went through panel interviews to prove their worth as Outstanding Scout. At the end of the search, only 5 Boy Scouts and 5 Senior Scouts survived.

“I felt glad when I received the award,” Soriano said.

“I didn’t expect to be among the Ten Outstanding Scouts of Manila because there were many boy scouts representing their respective schools in the contest. I was already satisfied with just being one of the finalists. Honestly, winning the TOSM was my goal in joining the search so I did my best,” Soriano further shared.

SSC-R Grade School delegation scores awards in the 26th SCORES The Grade School delegation brought home a big win in the recently concluded Students Congress of Recollect Schools (SCORE) 2011. In the Elementary division, the 5-day convention was participated in by six Recoletos grade schools all over the country. With the Theme “Kindling the Heart and Empowering the Mind for a Responsible Stewardship,” the convention was held at the University of Negros Occidental- Recoletos (UNO-R) in Bacolod last October 17-21. While SCORES usually have selected participants from the High Schools and College divisions, it was the first time that the elementary pupils were invited in the convention. Leading the grade school delegation were Donna Mae A.Galang and Laura Christine C. Katapang, Champion in Mind Quest. They were joined by Ma. Carmela M. Acosta, Champion in the On-the-Spot Poster Making contest, and Kenneth Brian E. Quiambao, 1st Runner- up in Declamation. Gershom Montes and Eloisa Aquino joined the Recoletos Got Talent contest. All participants came from VI- St. Augustine. Mrs. Anita A. Servando, Coordinator for student affairs, accompanied the pupils. The convention kicked off with a motorcade along the major roads of Bacolod City which was participated in by the Grade School, High School and College delegates. UNO-R President and former San Sebastian College President Rev. Fr. Dionisio Cachero, OAR, officially opened the convention. Overall chairman was Rev. Fr. James Bumangabang, OAR. SCORES aims to create an opportunity to meet and bond with students from various Recoletos schools nationwide. More than winning in the different competitions, the convention promotes social interaction and sportsmanship among the participants. For this gathering, the organizers zeroed in on the brand of education that Recoletos schools offer. “Watching the varied presentations by the different schools, I realized that excellence in the performing arts is really one of the strengths of our pupils in Recoletos schools,” trainer Mrs. Cosme shared. 26 April-October Issue

news Con’t. from page 3

FAAP grants accreditation to SSC-R Manila in a broad area of academic discipline and enjoy prestige and authority comparable to that of top colleges and universities. PAASCU sees voluntary accreditation as “…the process whereby a school, which desires to go beyond the minimum standards required by CHED and DepEd, assesses its goals and organization, its strengths and weaknesses by means of a self-survey.” To continuously measure its standard of quality, SSC-R Manila is now preparing for a PAASCU resurvey visit in all College and Graduate School programs on February 2012. Areas on Vision-Mission-Goals, Community Involvement, Faculty, Curriculum & Instruction, Student Services, Library, Laboratories, Physical Plant & Administration will be thoroughly evaluated by a team of outside accreditors. This will be in preparation for the future application for Institutional Accreditation and CHED’s Deregulated and Autonomous status. SSC-R Manila is one of the seven (7) Colleges and Universities owned and operated by the Order of Augustinian Recollect schools in the Philippines. All programs in the Basic Education, College and Graduate Studies are with Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Department of Education (DepEd) recognition. Hospitality Management courses are also certified by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA),

Philippines. The College courses have strong local and international linkages and tie-ups. For the College of International Hospitality Management: American Hospitality Academy (AHA), International Practicum Training Program (IPTP, Singapore), Singapore Hotel and Tourism Education Center (SHATEC) , Hotel Institute of Montreux (HIM, Switzerland) , Hotel & Restaurant Association of the Philippines (HRAP), Council of Hotel & Restaurant Educators of the Philippines (COHREP), Abacus Distribution System Philippines, WG & A Superferry, Negros Navigation (NN), Philippine Airlines (PAL), Canadian College, Alliance Abroad Group (AAG), New Zealand School of Travel and Tourism. For the College of Accountancy, Business Administration and Computer Studies and College of Arts and Sciences: Philippine Marketing Association, Inc., Association of Marketing Educators, MERALCO, Microsoft, Entrepreneurship Educators’ Association of the Philippines (ENEDA), JEDI, SQI, Mathematical Society of the Philippines, PhilNits, IBM, MSDN Academic Alliance, ADOBE, Philippine Association of Collegiate Schools of Business (PACSB), Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA), IT Works, Philippine Association of Educators in Office Administration Foundation, Inc. (PAEOAFI), Philippine Computer Society (PCS), Philippine Society of IT Educators (PSITE), Philippine National Bank (PNB), Central Bank of the Philippines, ABS-CBN, GMA -7, LPDT, A. Soriano Corporation among others The College of Law offering Bachelor of Laws (LLB) and Juris Doctor (J.D.) is also granted with recognition by the Supreme Court of the Philippines. It is the first and

only Asian Law School to become an associate member of the Southwestern Legal Foundation based in Dallas, Texas which sponsors the Annual Dallas Academy of American and International Law. An extension law program is now also established in Surigao City having a Memorandum of Agreement with the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP), Surigao Chapter. The Recoletos Review Center consistently produces Bar toppers.

Con’t. from page 3

Mendoza garners 3rd Spot in CISA Examination in 160 countries have earned the CISA certification since its inception in 1978. The certificating body, Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA), is based in Illinois, USA and has more than 180 chapters established in over 75 countries worldwide. This certification exam is being conducted twice a year and was taken by Joyce Ann G. Mendoza (SSCR Manila BSA Batch 2008) on December 11, 2010 at Traders Hotel, Manila. Results of the exams were released on January 29, 2011 and she garnered the top 3 spot out of 54 professionals who took the examination. The College of Accountancy, Business Administration and Computer Studies (CABACS) of San Sebastian College-Recoletos, Manila on August 3, 2011 awarded a plaque of recognition to Ms. Mendoza for her achievement as a valuable contribution to uplift the school’s commitment to academic excellence. Crosscurrent 27

news Dance Competition opens CIHM Week 2011

Con’t. from page 3

6 BSA Graduates add to Sebastinian CPAs

As part of the College of International Hospitality Management (CIHM) Week celebrations this year, all World Tourism with Geography classes were tasked to perform foreign cultural dances as part of the CIHM-organized program last October 4 at the school quadrangle. The performances were presented in the form of a contest. Dances showcasing various cultures were performed by the different sections. Section A, in particular, performed a medley of American/Hawaiian and Indian dances earning for them the top place. “The activity enabled the students to gain a deeper insight and appreciation of foreign culture, going beyond what is taught within the four walls of the classroom. By actually performing the dances rather than simply observing them, the students were able to experience these unique cultures firsthand,” Ms. Bambi Caluza expressed. “Equally important was the opportunity for the students to learn and practice the values of teamwork, cooperation, resourcefulness, self-confidence, creativity and enjoyment – all of which are essential in their chosen field of study,” Caluza added. Despite the limited time to plan, choreograph, or rehearse and limited resources to be able to come up with their respective costumes and props, the attractive display of talent and creativity of the students was nonetheless wellappreciated by the audience.

Mary Claire D. (Class 2008). The Certified Public Accountant Licensure Examination was taken last May 15, 16, 22 and 23, and results were released May 24 this same year. The school’s passing percentage is also 14.04% higher than the national passing percentage of 40.50% and per school records, it is the highest passing percentage of the school to date. The successful examinees took their Professional Oath before the Board of Accountancy on July 8 at the Plenary Hall of the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City. The passers were then given recognition by the school thru the College of Accountancy, Business Administration and Computer Studies during a testimonial banquet prepared for them on August 3 at the SSCR Manila Coffee Shop. Plaques of recognition were given to all the passers.

BSA Students Awarded Books

As part of the school’s program of giving recognition to deserving students, the College of Accountancy, Business Administration and Computer Studies through the Area of Accountancy decided to regularly give books for free to top performing BSA students. For the first semester of SY 2011-2012, the following students were the recipients of the “Book for Free” program: Pearl de los Reyes (5th year student), Jose Paolo Narca (4th year), Joshua Zamora (3rd year), and Eukene Sato (2nd year). On the 16th of June this year, the Area of Accountancy through its Area Chairman, Ignacio Katapang II, started awarding free books on Accounting Information System, Law on Negotiable Instruments, Advanced Accounting Part 1 and Financial Accounting and Reporting Part 1 to serve as incentives for students to strive for excellence in their studies. Similar to the accounting review grants being given by the Area of Accountancy, the free books are intended to help deserving students. The Area of Accountancy is expecting to raise the number of books to be awarded in the future to be able to help more deserving students. 28 April-October Issue

STAG’s Road to Maturity

sports

In a feat reminiscent of NCAA Season 73, the Golden Stag sweeps the elimination round of Season 74 posturing as a favorite and dominant ball club of the prestigious Manilabased collegiate basketball tournament. The big-three of Baste—Ian Sangalang, Calvin Abueva and Ronald Pascual—lead the team both in defense and offense. Other team members contribute significantly in both ends of the court making opponent’s life inside the court troublesome and wearisome. The pressure and momentum building up in each game only make the cagers resolute in their quest for glory. Topix Robinson, himself a former player whose time established the glorious age of stags, proved himself not to be a rookie or a newbie college coach. Even with barely two weeks preparation for the opening of NCCA 74, he steered the ball club to a prestigious finish, proving his critics wrong. Given this turn of events, expect the stags to leap high and reach greater maturity.

Victor Erica

Woodpushers Bag NCAA Chess Tilt

The San Sebastian Woodpushers in the Juniors Division bested other NCAA chess teams and claimed the Juniors title in the Chess Tournament of Season 87. The Woodpushers have enjoyed solo lead, one during the 85th Season, and then this season. The credit for this achievement not only resides in the player but to the able tutelage of GM Homer Cunanan, the team’s head coach which was accorded the “Coach of the Year” title. Aldous Roy Coronel, Kristian Paolo Cristobal, Ralph Jordan Floro, Anfernee Bonifacio, Homel Aristotle Cunanan, and Eugene Samonte complete the roster of champions. Anfernee Bonifacio was declared MVP and Board 4 Medalist, as Alexis Emil Maribao was judged Seniors Board 1 Board Medallist, while Louie Salvador was declared Seniors Board 3 Board Medallist. Victor Erica

SSC-R bags awards in Taekwondo The Taekwondo club of the Grade School Department bagged medals in the recently concluded 4th Don Bosco Mandaluyong Open TKD Championship held last October 16. Organized by the Elementary Family Council (ELFACO), the club has been bringing pride to the school since it was formed. This year, for the Poomsae category,

Maria Dominique S. Elima of III-St. Monica and Ivan Andrei P. Erestain of VI-St. Thomas won gold medals; Heinz Kristian P. Moneda (V-St. Claire), John Aaron Van A. Cirio (V-St. Rita), Jeremy Khaye O. Bautista (III-St. Francis), KyleGabriel O. Bautista (V-St. Catherine), and Leonardo Bautista (High School) received silver medals. For the Sparring Category, Heinz Kristian P. Moneda (V-St. Claire), Kyle Gabriel O. Bautista (V-St. Catherine), and Ivan Andrei P. Erestain (VI- St. Thomas) grabbed the gold, while John Aaron Van A. Cirio (V-St. Rita), Angelica Arenas (High School), and Leonardo Bautista (High School) took the silver medals. With Coaches Jec Panotes and Nico Panotes handling the training, the Taekwondo Club is back to its winning form. Crosscurrent

sports Pabilico Bags Gold and Bronze in Taekwondo Expo Small but terrible. This was proven by Rannie Stefano S. Pabilico of I-Faith, 13 years old, after he bagged 1st and 3rd place in Poomsae and Kyorogi, respectively at the 5th World Taekwondo Expo last July 7-14, 2011 in Muju, South Korea. Being a member of the Junior National Team of Philippine Taekwondo Association and Philippine Taekwondo Contingent, Pabilico, together with other representatives of the Philippines, competed in the eight-day competition which was participated by 47 countries around the globe. Pabilico received his first bronze medal in a national competition at the age of 5, became a black junior belter at the age of 7 and started as member of Philippine Taekwondo Contingent at the age of 8. It’s his 4th time to represent the country in the said affair since 2008. (Josiah Ramuel Narca)

GUARTE CONQUERS SOUTHEAST ASIAN A stag – Mervin Guarte, a third year Hotel and Restaurant Management student – broke the record for the Philippines with astounding time of 3:47.65 seconds in the 1, 500 meter run breaking the old Philippine record of 3:49 second. The SouthEast Asian games held last November 14-15 in Palembang, Indonesia witnessed this momentous achievement for the SSC-R Track and Field team. Guarte got his silver in both 1,500m and 800 meter run. The 1,500m run was a dramatic moment between Philippines (Guarte) and the runner from the host country, Indonesia with only a hundreds of a second difference 3:47:63 and 3:47.65 respectively. Guarte, a 19-year old guy from Mindoro, has been with the track and field team as a senior player under the guidance of a seasoned and also a be-medalled coach Joselito Gando. An MVP (Most Valuable Player) 2009 awardee during Palarong Pambansa in Tacloban., and again in the 1,500m run, Guarte was also the first Filipino bronze medallist in the millennium run in Hongkong held last October 28. He was a fourth placer in the Asian Junior Championship last July 2010 in Vietnam and a record breaker in 2009 in four events in NCAA. He also participated in universiade games, inter-school competition, an Olympic-like competition in size and grandeur held at Shenzhen, China last July 2011. “It was a moment of triumph not only for Guarte but also for the whole Sebastinian Community,” said Coach Gando. “It resonates the true spirit of SSC-R passion, excellence, discipline, and perseverance. Bravo Baste!” (Joselito Gando)

April-October Issue

cover story

Con’t. from page 15

“Year of the Recollect Education: An Engagement” their parents “happy birthday” but are not present to give them a kiss; parents respond through text essages (sms) telling them “We love you” but are absent to give them a hug and the whisper of love. There is a need to re-discover and re-learn the value of silence if only to live a more profound life. Without silence, one is practically incapable to listen to the interior voice of God speaking in the conscience. “Do not let noise dull your senses” and do not fear silence so you may be able to listen more! This was the fatherly advice of the speaker. (c) Do not confuse rapidity with rhythm. Usually, success is measured against productivity. The more output one has the more he is looked up to as model of success. But real success is not about how much one has produced but how much one has loved. A life peppered with good habits tends to

be prolonged, cheerful and thankful. Virtues are results of a life lived in rhythm. (d) Keep the Desire to excel in the service of God. The spirit of materialism, hedonism and other “isms” has greatly affected the object of our desires. For some, power, possessions, and prestige are absolute values of personal desire. However, our catholic tradition, for so long a time based on the search for wisdom and truth, has plainly affirmed their transitory character. Augustine confesses “…our heart is restless till it rests in you” (Conf. I.1.) Authentic fulfillment and genuine accomplishments are only achieved if one strives to excel in the service of God. “Do not lose desire, just change the object of your desire”—an ethical admonition of the preacher.

Cracked Pots One of the final metaphors portrayed by the speaker are the cracked pots. These seemingly useless archeological relics represent our life struggles and life settings. After years of educational engagements cracks – psychological, spiritual and emotional in nature – emerge. These are signs of vitality: they are testimonies of commitment to a mission; they are evidences of dedication to obligations in the formation of minds and hearts of the young. For as long as God is within, there is peace; there is healing; and there is harmony. Fr. Leander V. Barrot, OAR

Crosscurrent

April-October Issue