Heraldo Filipino Vol. 32 Issue 5

APRIL - MAY 2018 | PAGE 1

VOLUME 32 ISSUE 5

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF DE LA SALLE UNIVERSITY-DASMARIñAS APRIL - MAY 2018

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VOLUME 32 ISSUE 5

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Kontrakt wal gawing regul ar. Marking the commemoration of the 116th Labor Day in the Philippines, thousands of workers, unions, mass organizations, and progressive groups joined the movement on May 1 led by the Kilusang Mayo Uno and Nagkaisa Labor Coalition to fight for higher wages, the right to create unions, and an end to contractualization.

Photo by Justine Bea Bautista

5% tuition increase next AY awaiting CHEd approval USC, CSCs express opposition against tuition increase

by Naomi Lane Tiburcio The proposal for a five percent tuition increase for freshmen and upperclassmen of academic year (AY) 2018-2019 is currently awaiting the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd)’s approval, as confirmed by Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administrative Services (VCFAS) Deodoro Abiog II. Abiog pinned the reason behind the increase to the inflation rate and higher expenses for the University,

such as “maintenance of the University, acquisition of additional furniture and equipment, upgrading of school

facilities, and other existing facilities.”

In pursuance to CHEd Memorandum Order (CMO) No. 3

series of 2012, for approval of increase in tuition, 70 percent of the proceeds must be allotted for teaching and non-teaching personnel, while the remaining 20 percent shall be allotted for the improvement of buildings, equipment, and other facilities in the institution.

It is also stated in the CMO that all higher education institutions are tasked to conduct consultations among student councils, faculty, alumni, and non-teaching personnel associations

regarding any plans to increase the tuition.

The multi-sectoral committee, which serves as the consultation body for the tuition increase, includes representatives from different groups, such as the Parents Organization La Salle Cavite (POLCA), KABALIKAT ng DLSU-D Inc., Faculty Association, Administrative Service Personnel, Alumni Association, Administration, and student representatives, which are the USC and the CSCs.

The multi-sectoral committee conducted three multi-sectoral meetings, on February 9, 15, and 23.

Student reps react The 2017-2018 University Student Council and the College Student Councils were the only body among the multi-sectoral committee members who disapproved of the tuition increase. In the official statement See TUITION | page 2

Multiple SC candidates fail to reach VOC Sinag Lasalyano USC, CBAASC, CEATSC, CTHMSC slates sweep votes

by Patrik Aboy

Spectrum Equality. To mark the end of DLSU-D’s first Equality Week, spearheaded by the University Student Council, the CTHM Building was lit up April 27 in rainbow colors to symbolize equality, empowerment, and pride.

During the recently concluded 2018 University Student Election held from May 3 to 5, the University Student Council (USC) and College Student Councils (CSCs) unopposed candidates failed to meet the vote of confidence (VOC) requirement, resulting in a failure of election in select college councils and positions.

See elections | page 3

Photo by Marco Belarmino

SPECIAL REPORT

features

Literary

sports

PAG raises concerns

Pagtawid

Bound

Paddlers grab 2 bronze

page 4

page 11

page 12

page 15

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TUITION from page 1 on their Facebook page, the USC questioned the quality of the school maintenance after the five percent tuition increase in the previous year.

“Due to the recent incidents where the school had poor maintenance [and] problems in facilities and equipment, the student body did not collectively feel the developmental effects of the increase incurred last year,” the official statement read.

Meanwhile, in an interview with The Heraldo Filipino, USC 20172018 President Israel Pajarillo said the “visibility” of the increase last year was not evident this AY. “I think naman kasi, ‘yung mga student they will be okay if there would be an increase if it’s visible ‘di ba? Kasi ang laging concern natin, ‘saan napupunta ‘yung pera?’” Pajarillo said.

In addition, the USC advised the administration to maximize last year’s tuition increase through “developmental advantages.”

Despite disagreement from the student body, Abiog clarified that the multi-sectoral committee is merely a consultation body and has no power to influence the final decision, which will be under the discretion of CHEd. “Actually it’s [a] consultation, not really a decision-making approval because [what] CHED requires is a

consultation and that it [must] be a freeflowing discussion and that everything that is said—positive or negative—be recorded and reported, and that’s what we did,” Abiog said.

As such, the comments and suggestions of the student representatives were noted by the school administration and were indicated in the documents submitted to CHEd, which will be part owf the basis to approve the said increase.

In order to enact the suggestions of the students and other committee members during the meetings, Abiog assured that follow-up meetings will ensue in the next coming months to monitor the progress and the unaddressed matters regarding the increase.

Breakdown Aside from the tuition increase, according to the proposal of the administration to CHED, the Library Fee increased by P200 due to the increase in cost of online data subscriptions as well as the purchase of more books and references.

Science Laboratory Fees increased by average of P250 increase in cost of laboratory supplies and equipment.

The Engineering Laboratory Fee increased by P377.50.

The Center for Innovative Learning Programs also raised the fee for the schoolbook by P50 due to the additional expenses in relation to the DLSU-D Schoolbook.

The Botanical Garden Fee raised to P25 for non-biology students and P50 for biology students.

On the first week of May, the Office of the University Registrar posted the estimated college tuition fee for incoming freshman for the first semester of AY 2018-2019 at Counter 12, which piqued the interest of students, with the tuition ranging from P48,000 to P79,000.

Together with the college level, the Senior High School and Junior High School under the Department of Education is also expected to have a separate increase, however it is not yet finalized.

The VCFAS completed the submission of the different documents to CHEd in March 26. As of press time, the administration is still waiting for CHEd’s approval.

Note: CHEd has not announced when it will make its decision for the tuition fee increase. Noting that the CHEd may release its decision anytime, this broadsheet was sent for printing while awaiting CHEd’s decision.

VOLUME 32 ISSUE 5

P200M Dasma road widening construction to be completed in 2 years

by Jazmine Estorninos and Marjorie Alanzalon The City of Dasmariñas road widening construction in the whole of Gov. Mangubat Avenue which costs approximately P200 million will be completed after two years, as per City Mayor Elpidio “Pidi” Barzaga Jr. Upon “making representation” with the Congress of the Philippines, Barzaga said that he has “reached” the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Mark Villar as he explained the importance of road widening along the access road to Dasmariñas Bagong Bayan, including the Gov. Mangubat Avenue.

“Naipakiusap ko sa kanila, na ang magbabayad na riyan (road widening), po-pondohan iyan ng national government (held by the DPWH). And I was able to get funding from the national

government... ‘yun namang ilalagay naming mga ilaw diyan [sa kalsada o center islands], ‘yung ilalagay naming mga halaman and other improvements, that will be shouldered by the City Government,” he said.

The City Mayor furthered that the road widening project will take two years to construct since it is impossible to construct the entirety of Gov. Mangubat Avenue without closing one of the main routes, in addition to the demolition process that will take place to accommodate the 36-m “Right-of-Way” width

policy by the local government of Dasmariñas.

“Nakita niyo naman ngayon, including the students are complaining, magsasara lang kami ng one lane, ubod na niyan ang traffic. E ‘di lalo na kapag sinara ko lahat ng four lanes.

Kapag sinara ko yang four lanes, wala nang dadaan diyan, [at] talagang mabilis ang aming (city government) trabaho,” he said.

The DPWH contracted KLDS Trading & Contraction for the road widening construction.

See road widening | page 3

RCC extension on hold

by Marjorie Alanzalon

The construction of the extension of a two-storey building with 16 private rooms in the Retreat and Conference Center (RCC) which started in February, is currently on hold due to the incorrect classification of the use of land as “Agricultural” instead of “Educational” as indicated in the land title.

According to the Buildings and Facilities Maintenance Office (BFMO) Director Arch. Dennis Pontanilla, the ”unfinished paperwork” in reclassifying the land use to the Land Management Bureau also caused the construction to be paused for the meantime.

“It is temporarily on hold, mayro’n lang kaming kino-comply na papers from the Dasmariñas [City] Engineering [Office] ... Part of the building permit, mayro’n lang kaming corrections na ginagawa. Apparently, it was not corrected in the past, it’s being corrected right now,” Pontanilla said.

The BFMO Director furthered that the construction for the extension started despite the unfinished document required due to the late notice from the Land Management Bureau because of long working days for document processing.

Pontanilla added that this situation was not foreseen in the past, and that the administration is arranging the necessary documents for the reclassification as indicated in the land title.

Moreover, the BFMO Director said that the extension will be fully

operational in two months’ time in July once construction resumes.

As to why the additional rooms were initiated, Pontanilla explained that the demand for more rooms in the RCC increased due to various seminars, recollections, and retreats conducted.

“The need for more room to accommodate more ... ‘yong mga panahon kasi ngayon nagsusunodsunod ‘yong activities natin, like ‘yong retreat ng mga De La Salle Brothers, retreat ng mga local brothers from the Philippines. Not counting ‘yong mga

Discourse ignited. Despite being out of time to ask further questions toward the end of the event, student participants in TALAKAY: The 2018 University Student Debate ignited an intense discourse on numerous university and national issues during the event organized by the Student Commission on Election on May 2 at the Ugnayang La Salle.

See rcc | page 3

Photo by Bermanie Jean Doniña

R e ac t Following the Constitutional Convention on the proposed revision of the 2013 Amended University Student Council (USC) Constitution which moved to change the University Student Council to University Student Government (USG), The H ERALDO F ILIPINO asked DLSU-D students whether they agree or disagree on the proposal, which includes the creation of Executive, Judicial, and Legislative branches to lead the student body.

“Yes, I agree. This shift, I believe, will help the school and [the] students’ welfare. This University Student Government will [help] govern the school properly and with utmost responsibility.”

“Neutral. I believe that we should be able to accept changes but at the same time we should be able to maintain the old tradition. If it goes bad, then it means it shouldn’t be pushed through.”

“Yes, as long [as] madi-distribute ‘yong responsibilities equally and naaayon do’n sa kakayahan ng tao (student leader).

Basta magagawa nila nang tama at gusto rin ng students.”

Charina Chestine Alcazaren Fifth year Industrial Engineering

Iollie Anne Orlanda Fourth year Human Biology

Adnel Aquino Fourth year Human Biology

“I disagree with the change of name as we kept the name USC (University Student Council) for years… While shifting to a new perspective will also affect the operations of certain auxiliary groups that operate outside the circle of the Student Government. And may not operate easy without approval of the new USG (University Student Government).”

“Agree, kasi mas marami na ‘yong tao na tutulong sa USC/USG. Mas dadami ‘yong tao na mas [mag-]iisip (decision-making/governing) pa para sa DLSU-D.”

“I disagree to the thought of changing USC to USG because I think it will be a hard time to shift and adapt to the changes, such as having the three bodies (Executive, Legislative, and Judiciary).”

Reith Sebastian Langkay Third year Information Technology

Berlyn Condes Third year Elementary Education

Nery Balatay Third year Communication Arts

“I agree, kasi sa ngayon maraming underlying problem ng student council na hindi nare-represent ng council. Every student has a special case and has the right to be heard, sana magkaroon sila ng separate or autonomy decision-making regarding [sa] problema sa students.”

“I think it is okay, because in my perspective, I do not see any negative effects. Although in my opinion, it does seem like there may be some disadvantages that I am not aware of, such as the scope of leadership [that] the USC will gain or if the students [of DLSU-D] could gain undesired restrictions in the future.”

Joyce Reyes Fourth year Graphics Design and Multimedia

“In my opinion, I think that it’s okay and I think that this would help them improve their (USC/USG) leadership and relationship with all the students of our University.”

Melced Czar Benasas Fifth year Environmental and Sanitary Engineering

Rica Genel Peñafiel Third year Communication Arts

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elections from page 1 These were the candidates for the USC Public Relations Officer (PRO); College of Business Administration and Accountancy Student Council (CBAASC) PRO; College of Criminal Justice Education Student Council (CCJESC) President; College of Education Student Council (COEdSC) President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer; and College of Liberal Arts and Communication Student Council (CLACSC) President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and PRO. “Candidates not reaching the required VOC is mainly a result of student passivity and decrease in student population,” Student Commission on Election (SCE) Commissioner Jasmine Tuba said.

According to Article IX, Section 14, of the 2016 Amended Student Election Code (E-Code) of DLSU-D, “In case where there is only one (1) candidate running for a certain position, the candidate shall be subject to the vote of confidence before being proclaimed as the winner.”

The VOC varies depending on the population of voters in the college and the University, with 50 percent of the voters required for a population of 1 to 500, 45 percent for 501 to 1000, 40 percent for 1001 to 1500, 35 percent for 1501 to 2000, and 30 percent for a population of 2001 and above.

With the population of 7,774 of DLSU-D undergraduate student voters, TATAG Lasalyano USC PRO candidate Clarence Alisbo failed to reach 30 percent, or 2,332, of the votes after obtaining only 1,547, while 1,002 students chose to abstain.

Sinag Lasalyano CBAASC PRO candidate Eloisa Dimapilis failed to reach the VOC of 35 percent of the College of Business Administration and Accountancy (CBAA) voter population of 1,980. Although 193 CBAA students abstained, this year’s elections witnessed a CBAA voter turnout of 621 students, already insufficient enough to reach the VOC of 693 needed.

Similarly, the Sinag Lasalyano CLACSC slate comprised by Ivan Joshua Ladaga, Ma. Nicole Mariscostes, Samantha Mae Bringas, Kelsy Rae Ruado, and Micaiah Rodriguez failed to attain the VOC of 445, or 45 percent of the College of Liberal Arts and Communication (CLAC)

population, after a voter turnout of 225, or 22.77 percent, out of the 988 CLAC voters.

Meanwhile, COEdSC independent candidates Hanz Tecson, Angelika Triñanes, Rolland Jhay Suansing, and Aaron Villarica, and CCJESC TATAG Lasalyano candidate Klinth Angcao failed to reach the required VOC in their colleges, which are 141 and 109, respectively.

Tuba addressed that the low turnout of voters in this year’s University student election is due to having a majority of graduating students prioritizing their theses and On the Job Training (OJTs), hence failing to vote during the election period.

As to filling the empty positions due to failure in attaining the VOC, Tuba mentioned that the positions shall be filled through appointment, which will be spearheaded by the incoming officers, assisted by and with approval from their respective deans.

Since no candidates ran for the College of Science and Computer Studies Student Council (CSCSSC), the college is currently calling for applications for the CSCSSC academic year (AY) 2018-2019 through the official CSCSSC Facebook page.

and CSCs will be better for the DLSU-D community.

“Since magkakakilala na kami, alam na namin ‘yong galaw ng bawat isa… Nakikita ko rin kung gaano nila [ka]gusto ‘yong ginagawa nila, kung ano rin ‘yong vision nila for their own colleges,” Buenaventura said.

Sinag Lasalyano USC, CSC slates Sinag Lasalyano presidential candidate and incumbent USC 2017-2018 Treasurer Karen Buenaventura was officially elected as next AY’s USC President, along with the fellow Sinag Lasalyano USC slate members, Macauly Lofgren for Vice President, Jessica Lorino for Secretary, Jason Real for Treasurer, Fiona Raguin for Auditor, and Nathan Layugan for Business Manager.

Similarly, Sinag Lasalyano CBAASC and College of Tourism and Hospitality Management Student Council (CTHMSC) slates were elected after defeating their TATAG Lasalyano opponents.

Meanwhile, the unopposed Sinag Lasalyano College of Engineering, Architecture, and Technology Student Council (CEATSC) candidates met the VOC requirement of 676, or 30 percent, out of the 2,251 CEAT population, and as such, were officially elected.

With Sinag Lasalyano slates elected, Buenaventura mentioned how the dynamics for the USC

Talakay: 2018 University Debate During the heated TALAKAY: The 2018 University Debate held on May 2, in anticipation for the open forum of the USC candidates, students raised questions on issues concerning the USC, however the forum was cut short due to time constraints.

Commissioner Tuba explained that as per the debate mechanics, the SCE could only allow 20 minutes per open forum per slate. As the open forum went on, the SCE disregarded the mechanics and extended the time for slates to answer the students’ questions.

“Follow-up questions really consumed the time allotted, which also has been a reason for time constraints,” she furthered.

With regards to the issues thrown at the candidates during the open forum, Buenaventura addressed that it served as “suggestions” for the elect student council officers regarding their actions in the future, likewise mentioning how they cannot please every member of the student body with regards to stands on national and social issues.

“Hindi naman kasi namin mapi-please lahat ng tao (student body) … [since] hindi naman gano’n kadali mag-release ng stand, kasi sobrang kalat, ibaiba ang opinions ng ibang tao...

What we’re planning to do, papakinggan namin ‘yong mga sinasabi rin ng lahat ng [mga] estudyante,” she furthered.

Buenaventura shared her plans for USC 20182019, which include a new batch of USC committees, the possibility of bringing back USC scholarship offers, coordination with CSCs and outside organizations, and engaging the students in different projects to be offered by the USC next AY. Addressing the Lasallian community, Buenventura said, “Asahan nila (DLSU-D students) na… more on improvements for next year…

Tuloy-tuloy po tayo, tuloy-tuloy pa rin ‘yong service. ‘Di ako mapapagod maglinkod sa kanila.”

As for the affected establishments and businesses along Mangubat Avenue, Barzaga clarified that all properties belonging to the 36-m width belong to the local government of Dasmariñas.

“I wish to emphasize also, that the City Government does not get any private property.

We are just getting the property belonging to the City Government in Gov. Mangubat Avenue, 36 meters wide is the area belonging to the City Government ... I’m a lawyer, I have to respect the law ... and I do not take properties belonging to the individuals unless I expropriate them or pay them the proper amount,” the mayor said.

Two security personnel from the Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) and St. Nicholas de Myra School confirmed that the current construction happening

in front of both the schools is due to the 36-m policy for the road widening.

The key person in EAC said that the affected property only includes the pathway and walkway to EAC as he also mentioned that the demolition process in front of the college is currently halted due to the repairing of the water pipeline.

For St. Nicholas de Myra School, the security personnel said that there is no affected property, however the school administration will have to create a safe pathway for the students due to the construction process in front of the school.

Furthermore, the mayor mentioned that the road widening was initiated to solve the worsening case of traffic in the main routes of Dasmariñas City brought about by the gradual growth in population and investment in the city.

road widening from page 2 ‘Right-of-Way’ width policy With the implementation of the 36-m wide, 2-kilometer length road “Right-of-Way” by the National Housing Authority (NHA) as per Barzaga, establishments and businesses particularly along Mangubat Avenue will also be affected.

Barzaga explained in an interview with The Heraldo Filipino why the NHA “expropriated” the 36-m wide, 2-km length road “Right-of-Way” and said, “I was questioning … and they [NHA] told me, ‘Atty.

Barzaga, we [NHA] will establish the resettlement area (Dasmariñas Bagong Bayan, Dasmariñas City, Cavite), that would be one of the biggest resettlements in the entire Philippines. Therefore, we have to program 36 meters.’ That’s why, we (local government of Dasmariñas) started the road widening.”

VOLUME 32 ISSUE 5

Prof-led alliance to file TRO case to SC to retain PH Consti subject

by Naomi Lane Tiburcio Social Sciences Department (SSD) Political Science Professor, Dr. Jose Aims Rocina formed the group “Alliance to Retain the Constitution (ARC)” which aims to file a Prohibition Case with Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) at the Supreme Court (SC) to enjoin the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) from removing the subject Philippine Constitution in the tertiary level which is designed to be brought down to senior high level.

Rocina, who started the initiative through a Facebook group gathering nearly 1000 members, said that the removal of the Philippine Constitution subject opposes Article 14, Section 3 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, which states that “all educational institutions shall include the study of the constitution as part of the curricula.”

He added that he sees the subject as especially needed during the Duterte administration.

“I think it’s very important, especially with the alleged violation of human rights during this Duterte [administration], thus, if you remove the Constitution [subject], more and more (students) will not be aware of their human rights, because some of these rights embedded there are really applicable; such as the issuance of a warrant of arrest. This is so crucial in police operations Duterte’s campaign against drugs,” Rocina said.

In the senior high level, the subjects Philippine Politics and Governance, and Understanding Culture, Society and Politics are currently offered. However, as per Rocina, “Its contents merely provide for half of the constitutional provisions.” The subjects also missed to further tackle significant articles such as national territory, accountability, the bill of rights, and the state principles and policies.

Furthermore, upon talking to professors from the senior high department, Rocina added that the two subjects are not offered in all senior high strands. Through this set up, “They (students) will not really receive any education on the constitution.”

On to SC As of press time, Rocina is writing the draft for the Prohibition with TRO and is planning to have his sibling, Atty.

Hippocrates Rocina, review and sign

the documents. The filing fee would would cost almost P6,000, which will supposedly be shouldered by Rocina and other willing ARC members.

According to Dr. Rocina, this is the first move to stand up against the removal of Philippine Constitution subject in the college level.

Rocina said that one of the probable factors behind the removal of Philippine Constitution in the list of tertiary subjects is the “globalized” curriculum, which adapts to ASEAN integration. He also noted that the K to 12 Committee is also focusing more on humanities subjects and other personality and economic development strands.

He plans to file the prohibition before the new curriculum is laid out for the first batch of K to 12 graduates who are to begin college in June and July.

ARC support Although receiving no definite stand from the school administration, other DLSU-D professors such as former Faculty Association President and SSD

Professor Jerome Buhay showed support to Dr. Rocina’s cause saying in one post in the ARC group, “Constitution must be taught in college. That’s my stand.”

In an online interview with The Heraldo Filipino, Buhay furthered that college students have a “higher level of comprehension, thus they can understand more/better our constitution than those in the senior high.”

Dr. Rocina is also starting to get support with fellow Philippine Constitution professors from other schools such as Far Eastern University and other state colleges and universities.

The SSD professor is aiming for 1,000 to as much as 20,000 ARC members before the filing of the petition.

“I’m just aiming for more members so that the Supreme Court will realize that there are people that are trying to stop the implementation [of the removal of the Philippine Constitution subject] …so the more people, the bigger the impact,” Dr. Rocina said.

He also suggested that students “make noise” and share this initiative to their friends and relatives and “pressure” people in power to share the same cause.

“I just want the Lasallian community to be responsible citizens, be participative in political developments, stand for their rights, and make the government more responsive to the needs of the times,” Dr. Rocina said.

In the previous AY, Filipino teachers from various institutions also acted against the removal of Filipino subjects in tertiary education as part of the K to 12 program, resulting in the SC’s issuance of a TRO that stopped CHEd from implementing the new policy.

Japan, and Philippines, to attend the 2018 Holy Week retreat last March.

However, since the RCC building construction failed to be done by the last week of March, some of the Lasallian Brothers stayed in the RCC while others were assigned to rooms in Hotel Rafael, Bahay Pag-Asa, and Residencia De La Salle.

Tolentino added that Br. Gus informed the administration of his vision for the RCC extension in

2012, however due to more pressing issues such as the construction of the building of the College of Engineering, Architecture, and Technology (CEAT), the plan for the additional extension was put on hold.

As of press time, the date for the resumption of the RCC extension remains undetermined due to the current correction of the use of land, as indicated in the land title to the Land Bureau Management.

Effect on teachers The removal of Philippine Constitution as a subject in college will also take a toll on professors at DLSU-D, as per Rocina.

“Instead of teaching Constitution, which is an expertise of some of our professors, we will be handling other subjects which are not in line with our educational background. This would entail additional training and effort on our part as we familiarize ourselves with the new subjects.”

Rocina further added that these new subjects still lack the mandated proposed syllabus from CHED, hampering preparations for their offerings in applicable courses.

rcc from page 1 nagre-rent from the outside, especially ‘yong mga retreat from the other schools,” Pontanilla said.

Meanwhile, RCC Head Marichu Tolentino explained that University Brother President Br. Augutine (Gus) Boquer, FSC decided to start constructing the extension in order to accommodate the 71 Lasallian Brothers coming from the different countries under Lasallian East Asia District (LEAD) such as Malaysia, Myanmar,

History matters. TEATRO Lasalliana portrayed the struggles of the Filipino people and the horrors of Martial Law during the Marcos regime through their major production, ‘Buwan at Baril,’ which took place on April 24 and 25 at Salrial Hall.

Photo by John Edwin Lagota

S PE C IAL REPORT

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VOLUME 32 ISSUE 5

PAG raises concerns on lack of transparency, scholarship, and more Various Performing Arts Group (PAG) presidents raised their concern over numerous internal problems, one being the lack of “support” from the administration. The said issue was brought up during the first Town Hall meeting led by the University Student Council on February 21 earlier this year when a certain PAG President shared the “lack of transparency” in funds and overall support from the concerned offices above PAG. As such, The Heraldo Filipino (HF) investigated the issue.

As per the DLSU-D Student Handbook, CAO is a unit of the Student Development and Activities Office (SDAO) “tasked with providing opportunities for students to develop themselves in the area of culture promotion and the arts,” spearheaded by CAO Coordinator Joel Refuerzo who is in his 13th year as the Coordinator.

Under CAO are the seven PAG organizations: TEATRO Lasalliana, DLSU-D Chorale, La Salle Filipiniana Dance Company (LSFDC), Lasallian Pointes ‘n’ Flexes Dance Company (LPNFDC), DLSU-D Symphonic Band, Lasallian Pop Band, and Visual and Performing Arts Production Unit (VPAPU).

HF held interviews with all seven PAG Presidents, also known as Council of Presidents (COP), and the administration concerned and obtained significant documents to validate the interviews.

Fund transparency CAO has a P150 collection fee per student.

Each year, the office receives a fund estimated by the Accounting Office and has the discretion to divide the fund among the seven PAGs. Every year, unused funds are saved up in the CAO Trust Fund, and as of April 17, the CAO has

accumulated P4,200,000 since the beginning of CAO. In the CAO Annual Budget Projection created and submitted by Refuerzo to SDAO during the start of the academic year (AY), the total of CAO fund is P2,530,000. The division of funds is as follows: per organization, they are given a separate budget of P50,000 per semester which they can utilize for bookstore requests, recitals, and repairs among others. Other funds include cultural competitions, major productions, and PAG midyear workshop funds, among others. In total, with these separate funds, one PAG organization has a total budget of P280,000 this AY. However, on money matters, some PAG presidents seem to know less than they’re supposed to.

“Hindi kami well-informed kung ano talaga ‘yung type ng budget namin, kung magkano ‘yung budget namin,” Rudy Alduñar, LSFDC president said.

Rica Barinque, TEATRO Lasalliana president, said they are not given breakdowns of how much has been spent and how much still remains in their budget.

“Yes, actually lahat kami (PAG) ‘yun ‘yung

problem namin. Ang problem namin with the CAO, ‘yung transparency with the budget na parang wala kaming breakdown,” Barinque said, “At ‘yung suggestion sana namin is magkaroon ng breakdown kung magkano ba talaga ‘yung budget namin for this sem[ester] at paano ba namin siya ma-u-utilize kung nababawasan ba namin siya, [at] kung nababawas, magkano na?”

Refuerzo dismissed this claim, “I don’t know kung paanong lack of transparency, kasi unanguna ang kanilang [External Vice President for] Finance dapat ay nag-re-record din [ng] lahat ng expenses nila… kaya hindi nila puwedeng sabihin na hindi transparent sa budget kasi sila among themselves alam nila kung ano ‘yung gastos nila.”

In an interview with the PAG presidents, they said they record their balance and remaining budget, however, they still need to have verification from the CAO. During the initial interview with HF, the CAO Coordinator showed a blue logbook where he keeps his record of spending per PAG organization which he presented to PAG members inquiring about their balances.

Contrary to what the CAO Coordinator says however, certain PAG presidents said they have not seen the said logbook nor were there

any documents from the CAO. Meanwhile, other presidents say that Refuerzo has mentioned that there is a logbook but has still not shown it to them.

Melissa Sta Cruz, VPAPU President, states that Refuerzo showed it to her once, but he does not use it regularly.

“Nitong mga sumunod na taon wala kaming papel na nakikita na nando’n na nakalagay na ‘Ito ‘yung budget niyo this year,’ wala ding monitoring,” Barinque said.

The TEATRO president says CAO does not clearly mention their remaining balance of PAG budgets despite having already inquired with the CAO. “Kapag may ipapa-approve kang bookstore form, PRF (Payment Requisition Form), mga gano’n, ‘sige pirma’, pero ‘di mo mache-check kung ano ‘yung balance [talaga] namin. Nag-i-inquire kami pero ‘a sige kaya pa naman [ng budget]’ parang wala kaming makitang figures, laging statement lang,” Symphonic Band President Lawrence Samson added.

During the weeks covered by HF for the inquiries for this article, the reporters learned that the CAO released a working financial performance summary per PAG organization for

Ang kabalintinunaan ng pribilehiyo

Makalipas ang isang araw bago ko isulat ang column na ito, nakita ko ang isang hilera ng mga bulok na melon na pilit ibinebenta sa supermarket. Naisip kong ilang oras na lang siguro ang nalalabi nito sa merkado bago ito tuluyang itapon. Nakakahiya nga namang i-display ang mga bulok na pagkain sa pamilihan—sino nga namang kakain o magkakainteres sa pagkaing bulok? Sa libu-libong produktong ibinebenta sa pamilihan, hindi ko lubos maisip kung gaano karami ang mga pagkaing itinatapon sa ating likuran.

Lingid sa kaalaman ng karamihan, hindi lang libo, ngunit 1.3 bilyong tonelada ng pagkain sa buong mundo ang nasasayang kada taon ayon sa Food and Agriculture Organization ng United Nations. Isang kabalintunaan habang tayo’y patuloy na nabubuhay sa mundong pinalalagihan ng 795 milyon sa 7.3 bilyong katao sa buong mundo na nagdurusa sa chronic undernourishment ayon sa World Hunger; habang sa Pilipinas, may 3.1 milyong katao ang nananatiling gutom ayon sa isang sarbey na ginawa ng Business World.

Ayon kay Annie Leonard, isang American sustainability advocate at kritiko ng konsumerismo, sa loob ng anim na buwang shelf life ng ilang pagkain sa merkado,

99 porsiyento ng mga bilihing pagkain ang itinatapon dahil nabubulok na ito o di kaya’y hindi na sing-sariwa nang una itong ibenta. Ibig sabihin, isang porsiyento lamang ng bilihing pagkain ang nakokonsumo ng mga tao.

Ngunit hindi dito nagtatapos ang waste production.

Sa kanya-kanya nating tahanan masisilayan natin ang non-sustainable waste patterns. Ang reuse, reduce, recycle na kinalakhan natin ay tila mga salitang hindi na masinop na nasusunod dahil sa kawalan ng disiplina, kasabay ng impluwensiya ng komersiyalismo kung saan ang pagbili ng mas marami ay mas mabuti.

Dagdag ni Leonard, matapos ang World War II, nagsimula ang ideya ng “Planned Obsolescence” kung saan dinisenyo ang mga produkto sa merkado upang mas mabilis na mawalan ng silbi nang lalo pang tumaas ang pagbili ng mga tao, na sa huli ay siyang nakadadagdag lamang sa waste production. Bagama’t ibang paksa na ang tatahakin nito, at nangangailangan pa ng mala-thesis sa haba sa diskusyon, ipinapakita pa rin nito kung paano tayo nabubuhay sa isang mundong marami ang nililikha ngunit kaunti ang nakokonsumo. Ito ay patuloy na nangyayari sa bawat pagkisap ng ating mga mata sa kabila ng realidad na milyun-milyon parin ang nananatiling gutom at mahirap.

Kamakailan ay sumikatang isang maiksing dokumentaryo ng BBC tungkol sa pagkain ng “pagpag” o tira-tirang karne mula sa basura ng fast food chains sa Tondo, Maynila. Sa dokumentaryong ito, tahasang ipinakita kung paano kinokolekta, hinuhugasan, at muling iniluluto ang mga karne mula sa dumpsite hanggang sa hapag.

Maraming tao ang nabigla, ngunit mas nakabibiglang marami paring Pilipino ang walang kamalayan sa mga pagdurusang nararanasan ng mahihirap. Habang ang iba sa atin ay nakapagtitira ng pagkain sa ating mga pinggan dahil sa kawalan ng gana, daan-daan naman ang handang lumusong sa basurahan upang kunin ang tira ng iba dahil sa matinding kagutuman, daig pa ang mga alagang aso’t pusa na may araw-araw na rasyon ng pagkain.

Bulok na ang sistema ng komersiyalismo, huwag na tayong dumagdag sa baho na nilalabas nito Bulok na ang sistema ng komersiyalismo, huwag na tayong dumagdag sa baho na nilalabas nito. Saan man tayo pumunta’y mayroon tayong sustainable choices sa mga nanaisin nating bilhin o kainin upang maiwasan ang negatibong epektong naimamarka sa mga mahihirap at sa kalikasan upang gampanan lamang ang mga pagnanais ng ating kalamnan.

Naging usap-usapan din sa social media ang makabagongpamamalakad ng San Carlos City sa Negros Occidental kung saan gumagamit ito ng dahon ng gbi bilang pamalit sa plastik sa palengke. May ibang mamimili namang nagkukusa na sa pagbabawas ng plastic at paper

waste gamit ang pagdadala ng plastic container para sa mga bilihing nangangailangan ng plastik katulad ng karne.

Sa katotohanan ay maraming pagpipilian ngunit kakaunti ang may kusa. Siguro’y oras na para tayo’y sandaling tumakas sa kani-kaniya nating komportableng pamumuhay at lumusong sa mundo ng mga taong pinagkakaitan ng mga pangunahing pangangailangan.

Ang laban kontra iresponsableng waste production ay hindi lang para sa ating sarili kundi sa milyun-milyong maaapektuhan ng basurang parami nang parami, at ang iba’y basura ng pagkaing sana’y tumigil sa mga kumakalam na sikmura ng gutom.

Bilang bata, malinaw kong naalala ang isang aral na itinuturo sa akin ng nanay ko, “Ubusin mo ang pagkain mo dahil maraming bata ang nagugutom.” Matagal na namutawi sa isip ko ang mga katagang ito dahil hindi ko lubos na maintindihan kung anong kinalaman ng pag-ubos ng pagkain ko sa kahirapan. Maikakain ko ba ang mga araw na natulog sa kumakalam na sikmura ang mga puslit sa lansangan? Ngayong namulat na ako sa realidad, napagtanto kong ang mga katagang ito ay maaring isang simbolismo sa kung paano nagkakaiba ang mga tao sa iba’t ibang lebel ng pamumuhay dulot ng konsumerismo at komersiyalismo. Pinakikita ng simpleng aral sa buhay na ito ang kabalintunaan ng pribilehiyo sa gitna ng panahon ng kahirapan at kagutuman. Na kung minsan, ang pagababawas sa sinasayang nating pagkain ay simbolo ng respeto para sa ibang taong naghihikahos para lang makakain.

APRIL - MAY 2018 | PAGE 5

the AY 2017-2018. The said report was based on Refuerzo’s logbook and the Accounting Office’s report, and HF was given access to these documents.

According to the summary, almost all PAG organizations aside from Symphonic Band, TEATRO and LPNFDC, lack financial reports of at least one event which determines how much funds are used up by the organizations. (As of press time, some organizations may have already submitted some of the statements.)

In a follow-up interview, Refuerzo clarified that he needs to obtain the remaining unaccomplished financial reports of some PAGs in order to compute the the exact and official remaining balance on the budget of the different groups, which he previously failed to give.

“Kasi lahat sila nagkaroon ng major prod[uction]…kasi ang hinihintay ko ‘yung financial statement nila para ma-verify ko talaga kung magkano ‘yung nagastos,” he said.

Upon releasing the summary, the different groups started submitting their own lacking financial reports.

Unplanned transactions At the beginning of the AY, each organization’s Plan of Activities (POA) must be presented ahead of time to be included in SDAO’S Integrated Plan of Activities (IPOA), the annual projection of the flow of activities for the entire AY by all student organizations and councils under SDAO, which includes the PAG. However, there are also instances wherein events arise that are not part of the IPOA. “May mga times kasi na unexpected, nasira na [kagamitan], hindi naman siya nafo-foresee ng IPOA,” Alduñar mentioned.

This year, LSFDC had to buy two new instruments, an Agung and a Kulintangan which costs P20,000 and P17,000 respectively after their former instruments started to sound out of tune. Alduñar said their members had to shoulder the expenses of the instrument, and also different costumes, as these purchases were immediately needed and they would not be able to wait for the long processing time through the administration which involves a bidding process.

Eric Balaoro, LPNFDC president, backed up Alduñar, saying that “Mas ayos na diretsong pera na lang [namin] para kung sa’n namin gusto, madali na.” He also added that the Purchasing Department, only considers companies for bidding that are accredited by the school.

Refuerzo said he did not know that LSFDC did the transaction with the two instruments, “Hindi nga nila ipinaalam na bibili sila (LSFDC) ng Agung e, nalaman ko na lang nakabili na nila kasi may nag-offer daw ng magandang Agung, hindi nakarating sa akin na nag-ambagan sila,” he clarified.

Alduñar admitted that they failed to inform the CAO Coordinator when they used their own money to purchase costumes and instruments.

“Sobrang hirap kasi sa case namin ‘di ba like may mga specific talaga na bilihan ng damit ta’s may kilala kami [na mapagbibilihan], ta’s kailangan na namin agad, ang tagal kasi ng process kaya parang imbes [na] hintayin mo pa na ma-process mo pa ‘yung proposal mo do’n sa costume o instruments, kailangan na namin magshell out ng sarili naming pera,” Alduñar added.

Barinque supported the use of petty cash, or back-up money for emergency situations, for the PAG organizations would be useful in immediate transactions, as PAGs currently do not have a petty cash on hand. The CAO Coordinator also did not see the need for one when asked.

Refuerzo added that if the LSFDC informed the CAO in advance about their interest to buy the two instruments, the office could have made a purchase resolution and forwarded it to the Purchasing Department to undergo a bidding process. This set up would need a one-month leeway according to him, which contradicted to the immediate need of the LSFDC of the said instruments.

In cases of immediate purchases, CAO said the PAG should have considered reimbursement if the COP collectively signed a budget resolution approving the said reimbursement. When asked, some members of COP said they have not tried making reimbursements for their purchases.

Under “debt” The TEATRO president shared how their productions this AY are affected by unforeseen “debts” that supposedly fall under the CAO Fund.

Recently, the organization had an event at Alumni Auditorium, where TEATRO usually holds their productions. Venue costs at Alumni Auditorium, priced at approximately P100,000, is automatically charged to the CAO fund.

“Ang inaano s’amin [ng CAO] for the past years, hindi daw kami nakakapagbayad ng venue so kailangan namin siyang bayaran, so may utang daw kami na kailangan naming bayaran,” Barinque said.

S PE C IAL REPORT During the firsts semester of AY 2017-2018, Barinque shared that TEATRO was “not allowed” to do a production because of “huge amounts of debt” from the previous productions.

However, Barinque said they are not given proper means to track whether the said “debt” has been paid and how much still remains of their budget, “Kaso wala kaming sinusundan na ‘okay bayad na, okay na, magkano na ‘yung nagastos, magkano na ba yung puwede naming gamiting ngayon.’”

CAO’s Refuerzo dismissed the existence of any alleged debt, “That’s impossible kasi hindi naman sila nakagamit no’n (venue) kung hindi ko napirmahan.

Naka-charge sa CAO Trust Fund [‘yung venue].”

Moreover, the “debt” seemed only to be an encouragement by the CAO Coordinator for PAG organizations to increase ticket sales. This is after the previous productions of TEATRO failed to meet expected ticket sales that created deficits and net loss which the CAO Fund needed to shoulder, something CAO was trying to avoid.

In a follow-up interview, Refuerzo mentioned this when asked if he actually told TEATRO that they still had “debts.”

“Kapag minsan kasi sinasabi ko lang na kailangan niyong (PAG members) bayaran para ma-push kayo, na ma-effort kayo na makapag-sell kayo ng ticket.

Kasi pag kampante ka na naka-charge na kasi kay CAO ‘yung venue, mag-re-relax ka na eh,” he added.

Barinque said these hidden meanings within Refuerzo’s messages are part of the reason why communication between CAO and the PAG organizations has become disorderly, as what the CAO Coordinator says is different from what he means.

Refuerzo admitted that the TEATRO production which was supposed to happen during the first semester this AY did not take place not solely due to “debts” but problems in manpower and papers.

“Nagka-problem sa paper at sa manpower… anong petsa na wala pa silang script, anong petsa na wala pa silang plano,” he said.

He added that the proposals were not finished, and that TEATRO, only comprised of nine members, lacked actors, wherein during productions, the organization had to hire actors outside the school which the CAO coordinator discouraged as he said he needs to see TEATRO actors dominate the stage during performances.

Unclear balance Chorale president Jarold Jacob said their budget was surprisingly lower than they expected this semester.

After using up only P5,000 this semester, their supposedly P45,000 budget shrank to a P30,000budget which they said were what the Coordinator told them.

“Nito pong second sem[ester] mayro’n po sana kaming event then kumuha po kami sa fund ng P5,000 for the venue then after po no’n na-cancel po hindi po siya namin nagamit so ine-expect po namin na meron pa kaming P45 [thousand] kasi so far wala pa naman po kaming alam na pinaglalaanan ng pera,” Jacob said.

As per Jacob, the problems with budget transparency and PAG-CAO coordination affected his trust with the CAO Coordinator.

“Epekto po nu’n is ‘yung trust namin sa coordinator namin. Kumbaga as Performing Arts po, siya po sana unang nag-e-encourage sa amin [kaso ang] lagi pong say is ‘walang budget, walang ganito,’” the Chorale president said.

For the case of Chorale, according to their financial summary which came from Refuerzo, they have used up a total of P7,451.75 which still lacked exact figures as there are two events wherein Chorale did not provide their own financial reports, as of press time.

Tightening of budget Apart from issues regarding unclear balance, other PAGs also mentioned how CAO tends to restrict them from operating their budget or even holding certain events.

EVP for Finance of Symphonic Band Arlet Kalagayan raised the concern of budget constraints, stating “Kaya ko naman siya natawag na unreasonable tightening of budget kasi nasabihan niya ko ng ‘anak baka maubos na ‘yung budget niyo bago pa ‘yung event niyo’ at do’n ko naisip na bakit niya nasabi ‘yun eh ang liit pa lang ng nagagastos namin.”

The Chorale President attests to the lack of support from the CAO Coordinator, however they continue to follow his advice, “Sinabi niyang ganito na lang (on event planning) pero syempre at the back of our mind, nag-iisip ‘bakit din san napunta du’n ‘yung ganito?’”

Scholarship and other problems As a result of the K to 12 program and few students enrolling in the University, scholarships of organizations were part of the University’s cost-cutting plan in the past and current AYs. As per Balaoro, PAG was one of the first

organizations to have scholarship cuts. However, monetary concerns are not the mere reason for their scholarships, stating “Oo kailangan namin ng scholarship, pero in a way isa din siyang pagpopromote ng cultural awareness lalo na ngayon papasok ‘yung first year kapag nag-enroll sila.”

Symphonic Band President Samson stressed that the scholarship is also a source of motivation for their members, “E parang isa yon (scholarship) sa nag-mo-motivate [sa amin]—kasi maging praktikal na tayo na hindi mo lang hobby, hindi mo lang passion ‘to kaya sasali ka ng org[anization], siyempre, may benefit ka rin, isa na ‘yun, ‘yun na ‘yung scholarship.”

Samson also raised concerns over Emilio Aguinaldo College’s (EAC) Band scholarship, as he said the other organization receives a 100 percent scholarship. “Isa ‘yun (scholarship) sa kinakasama ng loob ko, kasi bakit yung EAC nagagawa nilang 100 percent ‘yung banda du’n, lalo na ngayon hirap kami (PAG) lahat sa members, kami nga 11 members nalang kami,” he said.

However, Refuerzo argues this by stating PAGs shouldn’t compare their scholarships with others schools and PAGs should consider themselves lucky with the scholarship they have now as De La Salle University (DLSU) - Manila only has P12,000 to P13,000 allocated for their Performing Arts Groups when he talked to the PAG Coordinator of DLSU-Manila.

“More than anything else it’s not about the scholarship na kaya kayo nag PAG. ‘Yung scholarship, bonus lang ‘yan. Nu’ng una palang alam ng mga parents mo na it’s more of your talent that we hone,” he added.

Moreover, storage for all PAG organizations is also an issue as most of their leftover equipment and props from past productions are left in the small rooms at Gregorya Montoya Hall (GMH) building, where the PAG offices are located.

Previously, the PAG together with other organizations residing at GMH such as The H eraldo F ilipino used the Vito Belarmino Hall (VBH) rooms as their storage rooms for their props. However, since the VBH was converted into classrooms, the storage had to be relocated.

This issue concerned Refuerzo and says that the CAO will prioritize a stockroom as soon as their funds normalize in the coming AYs, “In the future matagal narin naman na plano, kasi nga wala kaming stockroom. Wala kaming tambakan ng gamit.”

He wishes that the administration could lend the PAG a storage room for all their props and costumes once the plan to transfer the administration offices to Ayuntamiento and the GMH is converted into a student center.

Venues for production also pose a challenge to PAG groups as in-campus venues as per Refuerzo have high rental rates such as the Ugnayang La Salle, Alumni Auditorium, and Salrial Hall, among others.

“Ang problema ko ay ‘yung mahal na rentals dito ng venues. If doon lang medyo mabigat talaga.

You know what I mean, the ULS, the Auditorium, the Salrial… kung tutuusin kung half man lang sana or kung talagang kuryente lang, kuryente lang babayaran or maintenance,” he said.

The CAO Coordinator said since there are excess budgets coming from the CAO Trust Fund which is now at P4 million, he could check if the CAO could use it to fund a venue solely for PAG productions so the groups would no longer need to rent other venues.

The COP also shared the same sentiments questioning why venue heads give free accommodation and discounts to events held by departments, councils, and activities that are deemed “academic.”

After raising these concerns to the SDAO, the director said she is currently “evaluating” the current matters of PAG and CAO. Guidelines and seminars Upon interviewing the SDAO Director Ma. Luisa Ongcol, the CAO Coordinator, and COP, she said that the CAO has no central rules and guidelines that other organizations such as the University Student Council, Student Commission on Elections, and The Heraldo F ilipino have.

In an interview with the SDAO Director, she showed old copies of constitutions of Chorale and Symphonic Band. According to some members of COP, some still utilize their constitutions while some need to have their guidelines updated.

Refuerzo said all PAG organizations have their rules and guidelines sometimes in the form of a constitution such that of Symphonic Band and Chorale. However, these policies need to be “revisited” as some have not been updated after years.

He also added that he has guidelines for membership, scholarship, purchase through resolution care of the Purchasing Department, among other guidelines. Although Ongcol and Refuerzo admitted that there were no central rules and regulations for the CAO alone where the roles

VOLUME 32 ISSUE 5

of the CAO Coordinator, detailed instructions on how he/she should handle the seven organizations, the funding, and the process of financing these organizations are indicated.

Alduñar agreed that a “list of laws and regulations” of CAO would be a good way to avoid misunderstandings and decrease instances where they have to ask the CAO on different matters.

The CAO Coordinator said he plans to create and implement a CAO policies “as soon as possible.”

Meanwhile, the PAG presidents also contested how there was no Role Orientation Seminar (ROS) for the PAG officers this academic year, an annual seminar at the start of the academic year where they expected to have been oriented on PAG matters—including financial matters. Refuerzo admitted there was no ROS this year saying it was “redundant” as leadership seminars by the SDAO are already attended by the PAG such as Butil, Sibol, and seminars on how to have fundraising events.

The CAO Coordinator said if the absence of ROS is what the PAG members noted, he will double check the content of different leadership seminars attended by PAG to see if ROS should take place again.

DLSU-D support Moreover, one of the main concerns for each PAG organizations is the lack of remaining members for next AY 2018-2019, with Chorale only having ten members, LPNFDC having three members, and Teatro only having two in the next academic year.

(As of press time, HF has yet to know the figures for the other PAG organizations.) Balaoro from LPNFDC has yet to have a tactic on how to pique the interest of incoming freshmen to join the dance company, “Dapat makaisip kami ng way para talaga sila ma-enganyo. Mahirap talaga mapakita na masaya or maganda ‘yung org[anization] (LPNFDC) lalo na [kung] kaunti lang kami.”

However, CAO’s typical 15-member limit, which requires PAG to have a minimum of 15 members, otherwise if not met the group will be dissolved, will be lifted during the adjustment stage until the K to 12 effects subsides and all the college levels are filled up again. Refuerzo furthered that the he will not allow any PAG to be dissolved in the upcoming AY nor does the administration have any plans to do so.

The non-transparency in budget has worried Samson from Symphonic, among others, over the next generation of PAG members. “‘Di ako nagagalit, ‘di ako naiinis, nagwo-worry lang ako sa next generation, siyempre concern din namin ‘yun, scholar kami e, kasi kami nga [kahit] institutional org[anization] kami, ‘di namin ma-feel na institutional org[anization] kami kasi limitado kami sa budget,” Samson said.

In another interview with the COP, they also raised that there is an inequality in how the school provides for varsity athletes and the PAG, stating that athletes receive more benefits and overall support from the administration even if both groups compete and represent the school in offcampus events.

“Ang ginagawa nila (athletes) is nagcocompete, bringing the name of the school. Pero bawat organizations naman under PAG puwede namang magcompete ‘yan e outside the country pa nga. Nagawa nilang (Chorale) pumunta sa Singapore without the support of the school what more kung may support coming from the school?”

Barinque adds, “‘yung mga benefits na meron sila (athletes), bakit hindi puwedeng ibigay sa’min?”

Refuerzo is aware of this discrepancy, and mentions that this even happens with other schools.

He stated that even he voices out these problems to the admin but advises the PAG to accept the “reality” they are in.

Now more than ever, the Lasallian student artists need the school’s support, as PAG is not as supported as it was in the previous years.

Barinque stated that “Kaya na rin malaki ‘yung value ng PAG sa school [dati kasi] marami siyang nagagawa sa school, marami siyang natutulong na mga activities pero kasi ngayon kaya kami ‘yung unang naapektuhan ng budget cut kasi ‘di na nila (school) nakikita ‘yung purpose namin.”

For the succeeding AYs, the support for PAG is up in the air as Barinque finalizes with, “Siguro aside from that ang pinakagusto naming maresolve sa CAO is ‘yung mabigyan ulit ng equal opportunities … ibalik sana ‘yung dating nakaugalian ng PAG na lahat ng activities na mayro’n, ‘yung kung gano siya kaingay sa school, kung gano siya ka-valuable sa school.”

Going back to the role of CAO as per the DLSU-D Student Handbook for “providing opportunities for students to develop themselves in the area of culture promotion and the arts,” the PAGs current case begs to ask: throughout the years, is this role being fulfilled?

As of press time, this is a developing story as the two parties are in the process of discussing the issues concerned.

OPINION

APRIL - MAY 2018 | PAGE 6

VOLUME 32 ISSUE 5

EDITORIAL

Embrace the struggle The end is nigh. Or at least that’s what it feels with the political climate in the country. With almost half of 2018 coming to a close, people are angrier than ever as the news is becoming eerily similar to us each day reaching the Twilight Zone with each unlawful and downright questionable decision made by those in positions of power; including but not limited to, independent news outlets given the kill switch, Chief Justices ousted through unconstitutional means, China showing support for the government, and straight-up plagiarizers voted for Senate President.

The struggle to make sense of every happening in the country is not an easy one, and unfortunately the quick way out is to cut the process at that moment of realization—the very least we can do. But we must realize that there is a larger fight churning among the majority of the Filipino people—the continued struggle in fighting for the change we deserve.

According to Rappler CEO Maria Ressa during a recent campus journalism press conference in Manila, “There is nothing more dangerous than those who lurk in the stands of social issues.” And it’s true, as there is a certain danger in the ones who silence their own opinions, those who unequip themselves from the power they have. These are the people that do not acknowledge their privilege, and do not use the platform they have for the betterment of those who need it. Although they don’t have the intention to malign, each individual voice counts when it comes to fighting for what’s right.

The continued struggle in fighting for the change we deserve In a country where whoever has the loudest microphone have the most say, it can be overwhelming to speak out and join the struggle, as it is the easy choice to see the struggle go on through our newsfeed while taking comfort in knowing that at least you know. But speaking truth to power comes at a price greater than ourselves; with the Filipino youth at the crossroads of the impending future, it’s no longer enough to be “woke”, but what you do once your eyes are opened—and that’s where the individual struggle lies.

To fully immerse one’s self and understand the plight of the Filipino people is a challenge that the privileged find to be simply impossible but that should never be the case for the youth who will eventually reap the fruit we are nourishing—and whether that be abundant or rotten is entirely how we choose to treat the plights of the country right now.

It’s not a problem, but a challenge to cross the plane from knowing to doing. It will take all your power, all your time, and all your effort, but you have to do it. We have to have hope that we have the capabilities to make it better—because even what we don’t do will ripple into the history of the country.

In times of doubt, remember that it is already a victory to embrace the struggle that you know in your heart is the right choice. Because we are in no Twilight Zone, and the challenges we face can’t simply be switched off with a flip of a button.

The Official Student Publication of De La Salle University-Dasmariñas Founded: June 1985 Member, College Editors Guild of the Philippines Editorial Board AY 2017-2018 Anri Ichimura, Editor in Chief Jazmine N. Estorninos, Associate Editor Casvel Teresa A. Lopez, Managing Director Ma. Bianca Isabelle C. Lariosa, Copy Editor Glazel Ricci H. Noceda, Office Supervisor Naomi Lane T. Tiburcio, In charge, News Kelsey V. Telo , Features Editor Jason Christopher C. Paz In charge, Literary John Zedrick E. Simeon, In charge, Sports Mikaela L. Torres, Graphics and Layout Director Justine Bea V. Bautista, In charge, Photo Kristine Mae H. Rebote, Video Coordinator Christian F. Mateo, In charge, Web SENIOR STAFF Lynoelle Kyle Arayata, Fernan Patrick Flores, and Camille Joy Gallardo JUNIOR STAFF Rose Kristine Amarillo, Marco Belarmino, Bermanie Jean Doniña, Christian Ralf Dugan, Pia Margarita Marantan, and Jomar Villanueva Dr. Lakandupil C. Garcia, Adviser The HERALDO FILIPINO has its editorial office at Room 213, Gregoria Montoya Hall (Administration Building) De La Salle University-Dasmariñas, Cavite, Philippines 4115.

Telephone: +63 2 8447832, +63 46 416 4531 local 3063 Email: officialheraldofilipino@gmail.com Website: www.heraldofilipino.com Contributions, comments, suggestions, and signed letters should be addressed to the Editor in Chief.

The groundbreaking of a new CEAT building has started along the road of West Avenue in the West Campus after its demolition in 2016.

Resistance is duty As I write this, memes have hit the Internet portraying Duterte’s eerie similarity to Thanos in his quest to possess all the infinity—or impunity— stones and obtain ultimate power. Only, instead of the six infinity stones scattered all over the galaxy, the impunity stones in this story are the three branches of the government. And after Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno was ousted from her position by the Supreme Court via quo warranto on May 12, it’s become clearer that the Thanos of this story is in full possession of a fully activated infinity impunity gauntlet and with the snap of his fingers, might very well evaporate democracy as we know it.

The debate over Sereno’s case has dominated social media in the last few days, with both sides debating over the constitutionality of the decision.

The law is clear—the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court can only be ousted through an impeachment trial at the House of Representatives and conviction at the Senate, not through a quo warranto decision by the Supreme Court. But this column, my last for The Heraldo Filipino HF), isn’t about that—it’s about what comes after.

In the wake of the case that shattered every preconceived notion we had about Philippine democracy, slowly but steadily, it’s becoming clearer that there is a game afoot and we are all merely pawns in this elaborate scheme of the ruling elite.

One by one, the institutions of government are bending—or breaking—from the pressure of the Duterte administration like a bad episode of Game of Thrones. From the House of Representatives’ move to abolish the Presidential Commission on Good Government, a government office tasked to retrieve the ill-gotten wealth of the Marcos’, to the notorious victim-blamer Senator Vicente “Tito” Castelo Sotto III being elected Senate President— chaos seems to be brewing in this country under an administration dead set on denouncing and discrediting any ounce of resistance. Yet in this

Serve the people chaos is where we must find our place to stand unmoved against the tide of violations to human rights, rule of law, and democracy.

As Lasallians, we are the privileged few with the opportunity of being heard when we speak— something we must not take for granted when this is lost to majority of the masses sitting at the bottom of the social ladder. Now the question remains, as the youth set to inherit this nation, will we sit silently in the dark as the chaos rips apart the nation around us, or will we stand up and be counted as the progressive voices speaking for those who can’t?

Because who we are and what we stand for will shine brightest in our darkest days.

As each wave of shocking news from the Sereno Ouster to Chinese President Xi Jinping’s promise to protect Duterte from moves to remove him from office, the quote “When injustice becomes

law, resistance becomes duty” by Thomas Jefferson has started swarming the web and seating itself firmly in the minds of citizens. People now realize that when we do nothing, we allow injustice to do everything. When you have the ability to prevent something from happening, and you don’t move, they happen because of your inaction—because you let it.

In my four years as a campus journalist and student activist, I’ve heard the comments before— why do people protest online and offline when nothing will ever come of it? But I’ve always had the same answer—what do we have to lose? Should we roll over like well-trained dogs and accept the death of democracy? Should we follow order like mindless sheep to the slaughterhouse? Or should we strive to alleviate the struggles of the disenfranchised and leave a mark that matters—one that says we stood on the right side of history?

As my life in HF comes to a close, it is in these trying times that everything this organization has instilled in me is put to the test—and time and again, my one fundamental learning from this publication manifests: Serve the people. Become part of the collective that understands that the history of liberty from oppression is a history of resistance to tyranny.

Unlike Marvel, there are no superheroes to save the day—no time stone to reset the timeline.

Only us—and our decision to either join those that would destroy what we hold dear, or stand or fall by the fearless few willing sacrifice and struggle for the Philippines we know is worth dying for.

Make it count

Sa pagitan ng apat na sulok ng silid-aralan, dito matatagpuan ang maraming alaala, aral, at pagkakaiba—subalit hindi lamang ito dito nagtatapos. Sa apat na taong pananatili ko sa ating unibersidad, masasabi kong ito’y naging tunay na makabuluhan hindi lamang dahil sa aking mga natutunan sa loob ng silid-aralan kundi dahil din sa aking karanasan sa loob at labas ng pamantasan.

Ngayong nalalapit na ang aking mga huling sandali bilang isang estudyante at ngayong ito na ang huli kong column na maipapahayag sa The Heraldo Filipino, nais kong mapagtanto mo ang halaga ng oras at pagkakataon—kaya ko ito isinulat. *** Make it count, ika nga. Maikli lang ang oras na mayroon tayo. Kung ang buhay hayskul ay tila petiks lang, alam kong alam mo kung gaano kadugo ang laban sa kolehiyo. Hindi ko man gustuhing magpaka-millennial at gamitin ang katagang ‘to, subalit YOLO—“you only live once” dahil hindi sa lahat ng oras ay maaari mong maibalik ang panahong sana pala’y mas pinahalagahan mo, mas nilaan mo sa tama, at kung saan sana’y mas pinagbutihan mo pa. “You only live once” at wala nang ibang oras para magsimula kundi ngayon.

Mahigit apat na taon na rin ang nakalilipas, at masasabi kong malaki na ang pagkakaiba ng taong nakikita ko sa harap ng salamin noon at ngayon. Oo nga’t makabuluhan din naman ang naiambag at natutunan ko mula sa aking mga guro’t kaklase, ngunit kasabay nito, isa sa mga

hinding-hindi ko malilimutan ay ang organisasyon kung saan ako kabilang—ang HF. Dito ako natutong magbigay ng higit pa sa kung ano ang aking “maaaring ibigay” o “kaya lamang ibigay” dahil aminin mo man at sa hindi, ang pag-aalay ay higit pa sa kung anong kaya nating ialay, bagkus ay isang sakripisyong bukal sa ating kalooban.

Hindi ko nais na magtunog corny o cliché sa sinusulat kong ‘to, pero hayaan niyo kong ibahagi kung ano nga ba ang naging epekto ng HF hindi lamang sa akin, kundi gayon na rin sa ating lipunan. Alam kong hindi naging lubos na perpekto ang aming organisasyon, nariyan ang iilang hindi pagkakaunawaan—at hindi ko ito itatago (ngunit hindi ko rin naman ito ipinagmamalaki). Sa kabila ng mga nabanggit ko,

Wala nang ibang oras para magsimula kundi ngayon maligaya kong sasabihing nagsilbi itong hamon para sa amin at leksyon upang maging mas maingat, mapagmasid, responsible, at upang mas mahalin ang aming trabaho.

Higit pa rito, lubos din akong nagpapasalamat dahil dinala ako ng HF sa mas malawak na larangan at katotohanan—natuklasan ko ang realidad sa pamamagitan ng kuwento ng mga taong aming nakasalamuha upang magsulat, ng iba’t ibang personalidad na aking nakilala, ng bawat istoryang ibinahagi sa amin ng mga prominenteng tao sa loob at labas ng ating lungsod at maging ng mga simpleng indibidwal na makikita nating naglilinis, nagtatanim, naglalako, nag-aani, at nagbebenta—sila ang mga

Time constraints during TALAKAY: The 2018 University Debate failed to give students enough time to address their questions to the USC candidates.

taong nagpamulat sa akin.

Habang mahalaga ang pag-asam ng pansariling kaligayahan at pagtamasa ng mataas na grado sa silid-aralan para sa iyong kinabukasan, huwag nating kalilimutang hindi nagtatapos sa sariling tagumpay ang kaunalaran at kagandahan ng ating kinabukasan—dahil hindi lamang tayo ang bumubuo sa lipunan. Dahil sa labas ng ating pamantasan, sa labas ng lugar kung saan tila maayos at masagana ang pamumuhay, matatagpuan ang mga naghihirap, naghihikahos, napagkaitan ng hustisya, at mga maralita.

Oo nga’t mahirap ang maging estudyanteng mamamahayag dahil kalakip nito ang iba’t ibang sakripisyo sa academics, oras, pamilya, at kabigan, ngunit kasabay nito ang pasasalamat na kahit gaano man kakumplikado at mapanghamon ang trabahong ito, mamahalin at mamahalin ko pa rin ang pagiging estudyanteng mamamahayag dahil alam kong walang katumbas ang kagalakan at fulfillment na aking nararamdaman sa tuwing ako’y nakapagbabahagi at nakapagpapahayag ng katotohanan. Kung kasalukuyan mong binabasa ang aking sinulat at ika’y umabot sa puntong ito, maraming salamat. Hindi ko na rin pahahabain pa ang sinusulat kong ‘to dahil tulad nga ng aking sinabi, maikli lang ang oras.

Make it count. Sa huling pagkakataon, sana’y nakatulong akong hikayatin kayong makilahok sa iba’t ibang hamon ng buhay—huwag nating hayaang makulong lamang sa libro at Internet.

There’s more to life. At sulitin natin ang oras na ibinigay sa atin, gamitin ito sa tama at sa makabuluhan—‘yon ay kung gusto mo ring makapag-iwan ng ambag sa lipunan, isang ambag na mananatili sa puso ng marami magpakailanman.

Muli, maraming salamat.

The first ever DLSU-D Equality Week uplifted students of all genders and sexual orientations and promoted gender equality, empowerment, and pride.

OPINION

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Balakid Hindi maikakailang ang mga Pilipino ay tunay na kilala sa pagiging masipag, positibo, at responsableng mga indibidwal. Ito ay mga katangiang ating ipinagmamalaki, sapagkat hindi alintana ang kahirapan at kapaguran—kahit ano pa mang mangyari—sa ipinamamalas nating dedikasyon sa paggawa.

Naiisip kong likas ngang masigasig ang ating salinlahi, ngunit pakiwari ko sa aking sarili’y naliligaw, dahil sa kasalukuyang panahon, nababanaag ko ang pakikipaglaro ng tadhana. Marami rin sigurong tulad kong tinatahak ang

paglalakbay tungo sa tinatawag na “adulthood” na tila hindi pa handang harapin at intindihin ang kahulugan ng responsibilidad sapagkat sa simula pa nga lang ay nakakapagod at nakakatakot na.

Karaniwan nang tumatakbo ang ideya ng inilalahad kong usapin tungkol sa gawaing kailangang matapos sa itinakdang oras. Hindi lang sa ganito sumasalamin ang pagiging responsable ng tao kundi maging sa mga desisyon at personal nating buhay. Bawat kilos at salita na lumalabas sa atin ay may kaukulang resulta. Base sa kaganapan sa ating lipunan, maraming kabataang pumapasok sa mga bagay na hindi man lamang pinag-iisipan nang mabuti kung

kaya’t hindi rin handa sa magiging kapalit ng kanilang ginawa dulot ng

Natuturing na pagiging mature at competent bilang isang indibidwal sa paghawak at pagtanggap ng mga responsibilidad kapusukan, maging in

at ang at sikat

kapangahasang sa karamihan.

Mababaw mang isipin ngunit ito ang katotohanan.

Sa kabilang dako, hindi naman tunay na kailangang mangamba sa pagkakaroon ng responsibilidad sa buhay.

Sa katunayan, susi ito sa mas maayos nating pamumuhay at pagbabalanse sa mga aspetong magiging parte ng ating personal na pagyabong. Nasa ating kontrol at kagustuhan ang mga gagawin nating aksyon, at ayon man sa ating nais o salungat, nararapat lamang na maging handa tayo sa anumang resulta nito.

Dagdag pa rito, natuturing na pagiging mature at competent bilang isang indibidwal sa paghawak at pagtanggap ng mga responsibilidad. Ito ay siyang tiyak na aani ng pagtiwala mula sa iba

at pagtingala dahil sa pagiging handa gayon na rin ang paniniwala sa sariling kakayahan.

Magkakaiba man ang pagtingin natin sa pagdala ng responsibilidad, hindi natin ito matatakasan, kahit ilang panahon pa ang dumaan. Ayon nga sa dating presidente ng United States na si Abraham Lincoln, “You cannot escape responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today” na nagangahulugang hindi mabilisan ang paghawak ng pananagutan; ang marahan at paisaisang pagtatapos sa mga gawaing ating sinimulan ay siyang akmang gawin upang hindi tayo matabunan at malunod sa mga obligasyong nakapasan sa ating payak na pamumuhay.

In anticipation Here’s something scarier than finals week: The future.

Just like studying, we often put off “the future” for as long as we can.

It’s as if it’s a daunting task rather than the stark inevitability because when the possibilities are endless, our decisions don’t feel as significant as they should. In my three years working for The Heraldo Filipino (HF), I am constantly reminded that you will never be prepared for the so-called future, but you must always be ready—and it starts with understanding the difference.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not here to preach that we should all

have a precise life plan at the age of 20, but to point out that the future isn’t something we should fear, as the future is subjective anyway. We will never really reach the future, because in retrospect this present is the “future” from a few years ago too—and we’re more or less surviving the used-to-be great unknown.

Humans have an innate tendency to mentally time travel to and fro their actual and idealized selves; jotting down study notes in one minute to imagining a beach wedding with a truckload of puppies in the next. Psychologically, this is called prospection, or how you plan to see your life with these “ideas” ultimately becoming the center of your actions and decisions. But this isn’t always the case. A neurological study conducted

in t011 found that people tend to think of their present and future selves as completely separate people, with a region in the brain even experiencing

Confront yourself now less familiarity reactions when we discuss the future. Our brain acts as if our future self is someone who we are completely unfamiliar with, and frankly, someone we don’t give much of a damn about.

Though the study stated that we think that our future selves are eventual strangers to us as a negative, I disagree. There is a certain gleam of

hope that these “strangers” we have yet to discover are those who have the potential to be better than who we are now. They’re not strangers because they’ve completely forgotten who we are, but because they’ve grown from the shell of a weaker us.

In HF, who you are when you enter the organization will eventually be a stranger to yourself in a few years— not only is that normal, it’s crucial to the publication’s progress. As in society and in the real world, we can’t possibly expect ourselves to uphold the same belief system and work ethic as before, and that happens. A progressive society is made up of progressive people—as long as we maintain our principles to be a good person, after all. As my favorite philosopher Alain de Botton puts it, “People only really

get interesting when they start to rattle the bars of their cages.” Thus, rattle and destroy cages we do.

This is where being ready and being prepared comes in. It’s about time we look at ourselves now in the perspective of the future. We must realize that the pressure on our shoulders is no burden, but the expected struggle that comes from being afraid of change together, and that’s what makes it worthwhile.

It’s high time we embrace the unpredictability—the knowledge that you have the possibility of failure, of not being good enough, and still give your all because however you run from it, destiny still awaits.

To peek into the future is to confront yourself now. And it’s time to open our eyes.

WITBREAD

Of Marx’ s Mustache and Revolutionary Parisians

by Allen Casey Severino Gumiran (PSC41) This month marks two of the most important events in humanity’s pursuit for emancipation—Karl Marx’s 200th birthday and the 1968 France demonstrations. Each have their own separate stories, different narratives, and origins. The global Left’s commemoration of Marx is a recognition that his insights are still relevant; while the French’s remembrance of the 1968 student uprisings confirm the tragedy of one of the last major attempts to dismantle Capitalism.

Ten years since the Great Recession, the world is unrecognizable from what it once was in the eyes of those who hope for better days after the fall of the Iron Curtain. The world’s outright collapse of the financial market coupled with political instability, regime change, and the creeping rise of authoritarianism has spurred revivals of ideologies supposedly rendered obsolete by neoliberalism, yet Marxism is still seen as one of the alternatives.

Once again, Marx’s critique of Capitalism has managed to have a second life from the fringes of political extremes and Soviet dustbins, and as such, this affirms the public’s interest in Communism as a possible antidote to unbridled globalism.

Across the spheres of opinion and of the social edifice, the so-called intellectuals of the Liberal pedigree are in full retreat. Unable to face their detractors and accept accountability for their actions, they unwittingly reveal themselves as the preservers of

a broken status quo. Failing to assert themselves as credible, they cry for the proliferation of fake news, where they can even be blamed for an environment that has tolerated fake news through the commercialization of the press.

And unable to convince, they resort to the old trick of citing the dangers of “populism” and “mob rule.”

But a sizeable proportion of the population no longer heeds to the Liberal’s pronouncements and hurried scribbles. Distrust and skepticism has become so ingrained, that to reverse the irreversible is no longer possible.

In this context, the pragmatism of the ruling classes is no longer even viewed as such. Rather, this pragmatism is a mere longing for utopia in which the order of things can go on indefinitely.

The crisis of the modern world is now at its peak; the future now rich with possibilities.

So where is Marx in all of this? His vision pertaining to Capitalism’s decline and fall never slipped away from the consciousness of the populace.

According to Marx, the capitalist system is fluid and transient. For no matter how a system claims to withstand adversities, a generation of continued existence sets its gradual degeneration and its inevitable decay.

The decay of Capitalism includes a systematic erosion of moral values into meaningless aphorisms, of religion into customary practice, of ideas into abstract verbiages and of human life into a pious customer. Capitalism’s secret lies on how it values the

The change of submission of final grades from June 4 to May 18 caused schedule changes for graduating students such as earlier finals week, submission of major requirements, and completion of OJT hours.

commodity into an imprecise and a largely subjective ascription of values into an object. To view everything as a commodity is the hallmark of its ideology and that of Economics; in which Capitalism tends to reduce all forms of life into a gigantic source of its energy to keep itself running.

In a world claiming to be free from the dictatorship of ideology and the propaganda it constructs, ideology is no longer constrained to a centralized

If the present condition becomes the future; then the future must become our present condition entrepôt because it has become the lens on how we view ourselves and our surroundings. This gives rise to a naturalistic fallacy, a state in which the farther the individual is to ideology, the more he is trapped into the contradictory logic of it, which can be demonstrated by one’s reluctance to delve into a life without the allure and power of Capitalism.

One may also notice that in this era of the economic system, the avenue of escapism is an immense enterprise of its own. Engaged on the manufacturing of desires, of quick-fixes,

and a tendency toward the preservation of the contemporary in opposition to the revolutionary, the penchant for escapism only drags the individual closer to one’s own illusions that he can escape the encompassing universe of absolute nothingness. Everyday life in this late stage of Capitalism is a constant battle to maintain these “necessary illusions.”

Lastly, the economic system has come to a point where it is neither prosperous yet hopelessly stagnant.

Tearing the enchanting perfumes of a conspicuous showcase of wealth as an indicator of societal progress, what this means is that the world is descending both into avarice and decadence.

Automation liberates man from work, hence from the soil of his own adobe, and technology separates man from his bodily functions. A repugnant worship of the scientific method and man’s own rationality dominates the discourse of a collapsing and a fading system denying its inevitable collapse and its painful demise; condemned to eat itself at the end.

Criticizers condemn Marx based on the notion of progress as the potion that cures all societal ill, while crediting the innovations of “humanity” by denying the Marxian contributions to the present. The historical record however is dismissive of such tendencies to believe that changes in time translate to changes in mentalities, a tendency that still advocates from figures who take the notion of progress as a blind evolution

The two-day Town Hall meetings led by the USC elaborated the proposed University Student Government and brought together different sectors of students to discuss major revisions on the USC Constitution.

from one to the other—a combination of forces driven by a multitude of actors and that of circumstances drive the mechanism, from the strikes to the cries for shorter work hours.

Even the arguments for free market no longer hold weight. The holy market is by itself an institution collective and irrational by design, hence its dependence from the steady subsidies from the coffers of the State, and its excessive oversight. The rise of a bureaucratic image of Capitalism so efficiently utilized by China, by Franco’s Spain, and by countless governments wanting to follow Beijing’s footsteps is considered superior from the managerial Capitalism of a still largely Reaganite United States and a Thatcherite Britain, two countries undergoing a dangerously explosive debt and where the middle classes are now a dying breed due to their plutocratic elites trying to stay relevant.

Now is the time to demand a world where we can extinguish our present condition from the face of the Earth. Everything once held in esteem dissipates; all once permanent suffers from disdain and neglect. The acceleration of man into descent unravels the Pandora’s Box he has been hiding in for so long. For if the present condition becomes the future; then the future must become our present condition.

To which I say, long live the unbearable future! Long live the continuing legacy of Marxian thought!

Facebook page Thinking Pinoy targeted the CBAASC event “KAPITAL” and falsely claimed that students would have their portals blocked due to a political agenda, as VP Leni Robredo was a keynote speaker. This was quickly refuted by the CBAASC and the CBAA Associate Dean.

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F EATURE S

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Kubling Kanlungan

Sipat sa Bungkalan ng Dasmarineñong Magbubukid

by Jomar Villanueva

Photo by Kelsey Telo

Hindi maikakaila ninuman na ang Pilipinas ay isang kanlungang sagana sa likas na yaman. Pero kung susuriing mabuti, nakakubli sa nakahahalinang imahe nito ang bulok na sistemang gumagapos at nagpapahirap sa maraming mga Pilipino—gaya ng mga uring magsasaka sa iba’t-ibang panig ng bansa na sa kabila ng malaking pang-ekonomiyang ambag ay nanatili pa rin sa mababang antas ng hagdang panlipunan.

Mula noon hanggang ngayon, hindi na bago para sa mga magbubukid ang nakapanlulumong sistemang hacienda. Unti-unting sinisira ng pesteng kasakiman ng naghaharing uri ang mga lupaing agrikultural na isang tanawin sana ng magandang kinabukasan—hindi lang ng mga maralitang magbubukid kundi pati na rin ng lahat ng mamamayang Pilipino.

Kung kasaysayan lang din ng Pilipinas ang magiging batayan, bakas sa mga lupaing agrikultural ang kahambalhambal na pangangamkam ng mga panginoong may lupa, karahasan laban sa mga magbubukid, at kawalan ng katarungan para sa mga magsasakang ipinaglalaban ang sariling mga lupa.

Ugat at Bunga Lupaing agrikultural ang bansag sa ekta-ektaryang lupaing pinauunlad ng mga magsasaka at manggagawang bukid bilang sakahan o taniman ng iba’t ibang mga produktong makakain. Sa bansa, ang mga lupaing ito ay itinuturing na biyayang dapat paunlarin at gamitin sa kapakinabangan ng lahat. Isa sa malinaw na halimbawa nito ang 372-ektaryang bukirin sa Baranggay Langkaan I sa lungsod ng Dasmariñas dito sa Cavite na mas kilala bilang Lupang Ramos.

Ayon sa House Resolution No. 1370 na inihain ng ANAKPAWIS Partylist sa House of Representatives,

nasa 300 pamilya ang sama-samang naninirahan at nagpapayabong sa malawak na lupaing ito. Dito ipinupunla ng mga magbubukid ang iba’t ibang uri ng makakaing pananim tulad ng palay, mais, balinghoy, tubo, at saging. Karaniwan na ang pag-aakalang tanging mga kalalakihan lang ang kumikilos sa bukirin, subalit hindi ang kolektibong kilusan ng mga magbubukid sa Lupang Ramos. Bukod sa kalalakihang magsasaka, kaisa sa pagpapaunlad ng lupain ang kababaihang magbubukid gaya ni Ka Miriam Villanueva.

Isa si Ka Miriam sa mga miyembro ng Katipunan ng mga Lehitimong Magsasaka at Mamamayan sa Lupang Ramos (KASAMA-LR) na demokratikong nakikibaka para sa tunay na reporma sa lupa. Sa mga patotoo niya, magwawalong buwan na mula nang simulan nilang paunlarin ang binansagan nilang “bungkalan para sa tunay na reporma sa lupa.” Pero nito lamang nakaraang Pebrero, naranasan nilang umani ng iba’t ibang mga produktong makakain—isang mabunga at mayabong na pag-aaning sanhi ng kanilang pagsusulong at pagtatanggol para sa Lupang Ramos sa loob lamang ng maikling panahon.

Bungkalan at kanlungan Ayon kay Ka Miriam, ang “bungkalan para sa tunay na reporma sa lupa” ay itinakda ng KASAMA-LR bilang adhikaing magbubukid na naglalayong itaguyod ang

karapatan ng mga magsasaka. Ito rin ay tugon nila sa kampanya ng Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) na buwagin ang monopolyo sa lupa at baklasin ang sistemang hacienda na maituturing na salot sa maraming panig ng bansa kabilang ang Dasmariñas. Bahagi rin ang KASAMA-LR sa Katipunan ng mga Samahang Magbubukid sa Timog Katagalugan (KASAMA-TK), isang militanteng kilusang binubuo ng mga uring magsasaka at manggagawang bukid na isinusulong ang kanilang makataong layunin at makabansang interes na mapayabong ang malalawak na lupaing agrikultural sa bansa upang mapakinabangan ng mga magsasaka at ng sambayanang Pilipino.

Noong panahon ng pananakop ng mga Amerikano, tinawag ang lupang agrikultural na “Lupang Kano”, samantalang idineklara itong homestead para sa mga residente ng Dasmariñas noong panahon ng Commonwealth. Sa pagsiklab ng Ikalawang Digmaang Pandaigdig, mga pamilya ng kaingero ang nanirahan sa lupaing binansagan naman noon bilang kamaligan.

Lumipas ang panahon at nakilala ang lugar bilang Barangay Langkaan I, isang lupaing agrikultural na walang maliw na pinauunlad ng mga magsasaka at ng kanilang pamilya hanggang sa kasalukuyan.

Kung pagmamatyagan ang kilos at galaw ng mga magbubukid ng Lupang Ramos, hindi maikakailang kakambal na ng kanilang pamumuhay ang lupang kanilang binubungkal—at kung bubunutin sila sa lupang ugat ng kanilang lahi at pagkatao, unti-unti silang matutuyo at mamamatay tulad ng kanilang mga ipinupunlang pananim.

“Iyon ang pinanghahawakan namin na habang dinidinig ang kaso sa Department of Agrarian Reform, paunlarin namin ang lupaing agrikultural.” Hindi nagpaligoy-ligoy si Ka Miriam sa kaniyang paliwanag. “Kahit anong haba ng pag-iintay namin sa desisyon nila, umuunlad naman ang lupain—hindi natitiwangwang.”

Paghahawan at pag-aani Ayon sa House Resolution No. 1370, taong 1965 nang unang naglagablab ang pakikibaka ng mga magbubukid sa pagdating ng nagpakilalang may-ari na si Emerito Ramos. Noon pa man, kinasanayan na ng mga naghaharing pamilya ang paglalagay ng kanilang mga pangalan sa lupaing pagmamay-ari nila— dito nakuha ang bansag na Lupang Ramos. Ayon sa dokumentong inihain ng ANAKPAWIS, isang katiwalang nagngangalang Paciano Gonzales ang inatasan ng pamilya upang magmatyag sa lupain kahit pa kolektibo na itong pinauunlad ng mga magbubukid na naninirahan sa lugar.

Bago pa man maisabatas ang Republic Act No. 6657 o Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) noong 1988, diumano’y kinakamkam na ng mga Ramos ang malaking lupaing agrikultural na nagresulta sa pagpapalayas ng mga magsasaka. Noong 1990, sinubukang patagin ng kampo ng mga Ramos ang lupain gamit ang isang bulldozer. Subalit napigilan ito ng hanay

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ng mga kababaihan sa pangunguna ni Damasa “Nanay Masang” Perez.

Nang sumunod na taon, nagpakita ng intimidasyon at pananakot ang kampo ng mga Ramos upang tuluyang palayasin ang mga magsasaka na siyang naghudyat upang magkaroon sila ng sariling kampo. Ayon kay Ka Miriam, nagpadala noon ang mga Ramos ng lokal na pulis na nagresulta sa pandadahas kay Nanay Masang. Sa kalagitnaan ng pakikipagtalastasan ni Nanay Masang, binuhat siya ng isang Major Carranza at inihagis sa araruhan. “Doon nagsimulang manghina ang matanda [Nanay Masang] na nabalian ng tadyang sa likod na naging sanhi ng kaniyang kamatayan,” sambit ni Ka Miriam.

Ikinuwento ni Ka Miriam na “ganoon na kahaba ang pakikibaka ng mga magsasaka dito sa Lupang Ramos.”

Subalit sa kabila ng lahat ng karanasan ng mga magbubukid at mamamayan, nagpapasalamat pa rin sila dahil hindi sila nakasasaksi ng madugong karahasan. Mariin ring sinabi ni Ka Miriam na ang pagpapaunlad ng lupaing agrikultural ay alay ng bawat kasapi ng KASAMA-LR sa atin at sa mga henerasyong susunod pa sa atin. “Sa totoo lang, ang mga kabataan ang aming inspirasyon sa pagpapaunlad ng isang lupaing agrikultural,” aniya. “Kaming mga magulang ay papaalis na—kayong mga anak ang papadating. Kaya higit na nauunawaan niyo dapat ang kahalagahan ng isang lupaing agrikultural para sa seguridad ng pagkain sa hinaharap ng sambayanang Pilipino.”

Sa lahat ng hamong kalakip ng kanilang demokratikong pagkilos para sa tunay na repormang agraryo at paghiling sa estado ng mabubungkal na lupa, pinakamapait na marahil ang kakulangan ng pang-unawa ng mga taong dapat na kaisa nila sa kanilang pakikibaka— ang mga mamamayan ng Dasmariñas. Karaniwan na para sa mga tunay na magsasaka at manggagawang bukid ng Lupang Ramos ang mabansagang nang-iiskwat o nangaagaw ng lupa. Subalit, ayon kay Ka Miriam, isa lang ang kanilang tugon, “hindi kami nang-aagaw ng lupa dahil binabawi lang namin ang karapatang pinagkait sa amin sa matagal na panahon.” *** “Dito kami nakatira, dito kami lumaki, at malapit sa aming puso at sikmura ang ginagawa naming bungkalan.”

Kung ang mga magsasaka, manggagawang bukid, at mamamayang kabataan at kababaihan ng Lupang Ramos ang kakapanayamin, mapupuno ng tunay at sariwang patotoo ang libo-libong pahinang maaaring malimbag— mula sa organisado nilang pamumuhay hanggang sa kolektibo nilang pakikibaka.

Kasabay ng pagsulong ng industriyalisasyon— sa kabila ng pagkakalikha ng matatayog na gusali at pagkakalatag ng malalawak na subdibisyon—sumusulong rin ang tumitindi at tumataas na antas ng pakikibaka ng mga manggagawang bukid: sila na ipinaglalaban hindi lamang ang demokratiko nilang kahilingan para sa mabubungkal na lupa kundi pati na rin ang ating kinabukasan bilang agrikultural na bansa.

The good fight Resistance of the youth

by Paolo Lorenzo Salud Photo by Kelsey Telo “What’s with these guys?” You wonder as you stare at a picture of young adults—probably students—holding up placards with angry words written in all-caps. It’s probably about an issue you’ve seen in social media, or about something else you haven’t heard before. Because why should you, right? None of these are things that a privileged, sleep-deprived college student should worry about. As far as you’re concerned, the only injustice is the crippling amount of schoolwork you have to cram, and the only thing that needs saving is your GPA.

Yet here they are—people your age discoursing issues even full-fledged adults have a hard time trying to wrap their heads around. It’s impressive, but at the same time intimidating. Is it really necessary to be this gung-ho about politics at this time of your life?

For them, it is.

policemen can be tough and risky, but the part in being a youth activist that takes the most effort is probably in educating yourself. “Kailangan ‘pag isa kang activist, patuloy at patuloy kang nag-aaral,” Balenzuela mentioned.

For a young adult with the whole, cruel world ahead of him, knowledge is power.

Taking a stand

You’ve seen them marching on the streets, rallying with the masses, and clamoring for change. Whenever there’s a political debate, they’re the ones with the most resounding arguments inside the room. Young as they may be, they have made their stances clear, and they’re willing to go an extra mile to advocate it. You might even wonder why people your age would subject themselves to the never-ending, tiresome protest.

In times of political crises, activists have resisted to uphold the rights and well-being of the Filipino people. With each passing day, the abuse of state power only gets worse and more glaring as those in positions of power continue to use their authority for personal gain. Any young adult with a rational mind can clearly see these injustices against the people, and those with the will to step up have long made their appearance. Part-time activists Jhon Dilag of Anakbayan Indang and Sharo Balenzuela Jr. of The National Union of Students of the Philippines (NUSP) are one of the many youths who persist to fight the tyranny of the state. In an interview with The Heraldo Filipino, they shared insights on how important youth activism is, and how it leads them to taking action, beyond their comfort and privilege.

There’s more to youth activism than joining the masses in organized rallies. Sure, marching under the scorching heat with little to no shade while being surrounded by armed

Forged in the hottest fire Activism burns brighter when there’s a struggle, and for some youth activists, struggling is how they began.

Dilag became an activist after alleged case of electoral fraud took place in his university’s student council elections. As for Balenzuela, he joined his organization to investigate the questionable charging of fees to students in state universities and colleges (SUCs), and the privatization of these public institutions, particularly of his own. Initially spurred to take actions by their own concerns, these individuals eventually rose to fight for the causes of others—of their own people.

And their battles are nothing to scoff at. With the current administration vehemently suppressing political dissent, youth activists are red-tagged and branded as rebels and communists. Dilag and Balenzuela both attested to have experienced harassment from armed forces, placing their safety at risk. “Kahit inosente kang tao nga pinapatay ka na ngayon, paano pa kaya ‘yung activists na critic mismo,” said Balenzuela.

As for Dilag, “Mahirap siya sa seguridad namin bilang kabataan, kasi anytime puwede kaming ma-desa [desaparecidos].”

Unfortunately, these security threats are not exaggerations. The imminent dangers it possesses are real indicators of a fascist regime.

Besides red-tagging, youth activists also endure illfounded criticism from those attempting to silence them.

Branded as “bayaran”, naysayers discredit them by accusing

them of receiving payment from malicious anti-government factions—a propaganda deemed to invalidate their efforts and struggles. There’s also the undermining of their political stance, a card often played by those older than them, shamelessly telling them to focus on their academics and not get involved in “adult” matters. Naturally, these attacks have never been more unfounded, and in no way does it define the actual, compelling potential of the youth to think for themselves, and take their own stand. The youth of today are the leaders of tomorrow, and the duty of criticizing and keeping those who govern us in line falls into our hands. Democracy deems it to be such.

The call for resistance Contrary to popular belief, the efforts of youth activists are in no way fruitless. Many of the basic rights we take for granted have been a direct result of the ongoing struggle. Especially for students, who reap the benefits of youth activists lobbied for regulating tuition fee increases, junking of developmental fees for SUCs (courtesy of NUSP), removing mandatory ROTC and the No Permit, No Exam policy, as well as simple rights such as dress codes and haircut policies. Ultimately, the end goal is to attain an efficient education system that births critical thinkers for the progress of the country.

But it doesn’t stop there. Youth activists have also shaped the country’s history on a national scale. NUSP, for example, had played a major role in the ousting of former dictator Ferdinand Marcos and plunderer Joseph Estrada.

Basically, if you think the history of the Philippines is bad,

we could say that they’re the main reason that it wasn’t the worst. Now, the responsibility lies upon us in keeping the fight against oppression and making sure that history doesn’t repeat itself.

In a country crippled by corruption, there are still things that are worthy to be preserved but are hanging by a thread. There are foreign endeavors that are against the best interests of the people. There are atrocities committed in broad daylight—the killings of the people, repression against the press, imperialism in culture and economy, intimidation and assaults in indigenous ancestral lands, and other forms of exploitation of the Filipino people. Our futures are ultimately at stake, and in one way or another, our resistance is our only form of survival.

This might sound a little too heavy to take in all at once. But the point is, the struggle is real, and it is out there. And in times of great need, youth activists will raise their banners and embrace the struggle—all in the name of justice and equality. *** This country is headed straight to the dumps, and things just get exceedingly worse with each passing moment. On that happy note, here’s a hard-to-swallow pill: everything’s burning around you, and just because you can’t feel the heat, doesn’t mean the fire isn’t there. You don’t have to join rallies or burn effigies to show where you stand but the least you can do is open your eyes and pick a side. It’s no longer acceptable to keep mum about all things irrational in a national climate where every voice of reason matters.

APRIL - MAY 2018 | PAGE 11

F EATURE S

VOLUME 32 ISSUE 5

Pagtawid Taking on the fabric of society

By Christian Ralf Dugan | Photo by Kelsey Telo I brought my bag and packed a shirt. I was bound to write about the Kapdula farmers, but the immersion shaped the way I thought about agriculture. It explored my deepest and most critical of thoughts, and challenged myself on how this integration is the beginning of a new fight.

Kapdula The grass-filled valley engulfed my expectations as I gazed upon their camp from afar. The way to go was downhill, up again, through rivers, and on stepping stones. Across the roaming highway where cars were rushing downtown south, I rested my feet and body from walking an extra mile to meet our guide.

I could smell nilagang mais nearby and was tempted to eat some before I began my trek. It was almost noon.

The sun rays traced my skin and its heat parched my body down to its last sweat. The brisk wind was gusting, not a help at all—it was just enough to cool down my senses and calm my pores. the tall grasses leaning to the direction of the breeze were more carefree than I was; more vulnerable, yet much sturdier.

It was the element of discovery that pushed me further as I descended the steep path of the hillside. The past amount of rainfalls had ruined the carved steps, making it strenuous to keep balance and focus; one mistake and you could foolishly inflict yourself.

We crossed a small river and this time after, we had to climb up. I took off my shoes and took a step on the stones to cross the water, and I felt the coldness penetrating my bare feet and cooling down my body. Our guide Ate Belinda and his companion in his twenties, Jake, waited for us to reach the other end. They asked us to drink some water and catch our breaths because obviously, an ascending path was much more exhausting than a descending one. Luckily, the canopies protected us from the scorching heat. I had a closer look around their camp when we reached the top of the hill; the atmosphere felt like a smoking gun fresh after being fired. *** Pagbubungkal. Lupang Kapdula is a 155-hectare plain field that was awarded to various farmer beneficiaries by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). It has been said that these farmers were cultivating since 1976, but in 1996, a deceptive agreement with JAKA Investment Co. and South Cavite Land Company brought them to be displaced from their own land. The land was converted under the companies’ name, which was unknown to the farmers, and the payment they received was not in accordance with what was written in the contract. Ate Belinda introduced me to their story and life in Kapdula—about how this place has been the testimony of their courage and the lyceum of camaraderie and strength.

I was 14 when I started to love writing people’s stories. It was exactly when we were tasked by our Feature Writing coach to interview any personality in school over lunch and submit an article on the same afternoon. Others interviewed the principal, department heads, and some teachers.

That left me feeling I had no one else to write about. But I was wrong. That day, I wrote a story of a simple, middle-aged worker who I saw cementing a roadside waterway outside the campus. The man named Rico only had two hands and a leg to work with.

Come the submission of the article, it turned out that we all wrote equally important stories, but mine was the one with a testimony telling that a personality could be just anyone, as everybody has a story to tell.

*** There’s a huge mango tree providing a shade for everyone. Dogs were barking at the strange visitors paying a visit. I sat along the bench made of bamboo under the mango tree. After almost an hour of trekking, I got some time to indulge on the gentle breeze and peacefully observe the place. It was so vast that my eyes could not meet its end. The was its ceiling and the wind was its ventilation. Everything was a palette of green scenery as the grass danced along the movements of the wind. *** Since the farmers were displaced from their own land, the conflicts have heavily burdened them, leaving them vulnerable in an industrialized and capitalized labor market with almost nothing in hand. Most of them resorted to working as construction workers and public market vendors to grasp for survival. Some of them even rented to cultivate other’s land, which was pure irony as farmers are meant to till their own land.

There is Tatay Tommy, a 60-year old farmer, who worked as a construction worker during his days of displacement. He’s been farming for almost 40 years, and has lived in Kapdula and nearby farmlands long enough to endure and know every struggle a farmer deals with. His brown, old callused skin reveal his hustles in his lifetime.

Most of the farmers have lived all their lives working and waiting for bountiful harvests. But this generation of farmers said their children do not want to inherit such a life—neither do they.

The 155-hectare land that could’ve been cultivated, nurtured, and utilized to empower the agriculture in Cavite and liberate the livelihood of our farmers is instead being industrialized to gratify the needs of the upper class. Lupang Kapdula is currently being converted into an exclusive subdivision, but the case in DAR held both the farmers and the real estate companies to wield over the land. However, the farmers of Kapdula persistently claim their rights over the land, and conducted a “baliksaka” or “bungkalan” last May 2017. This brought a momentary success, but the fight isn’t yet over, because various harassment and intimidation are being pressed against them by goons and guards hired by the involved companies.

“Nasa loob naman na kami, kaso hindi rin namin masabing amin dahil sa kalaban namin. Minsan dinadahas kami. Minsan nakakatakot sa gabi dahil [hindi namin] alam ang [mga] puwedeng mangyari,” Tatay Francis, one

*** When you say you can write about anyone or anything, it can be directly explained by Nick Joaquin’s dictum, “There are no bakya topics, only bakya writers”. This is the same belief writer Erwin Romulo takes by heart, who has also written countless human interest articles, especially during his founding years at Esquire Philippines.

I can tell that it takes a courageous heart to write, more so to tell a life you did not live, of a person you do not completely know. Even Joaquin himself knew the challenge after being dubbed as “bakya writer” after writing an essay about Nora Aunor who had numerous issues at that time. The same goes with Romulo who wrote in his last Esquire editor’s note, “They can say we failed a lot of times, but they can’t say we weren’t fearless.”

My point is that although there is fulfillment in writing these stories, what’s more is the fear of not giving justice to the owner of the story.

You can only give so much for your article, but

of the Kapdula farmers, shared about the plights they experience in their camp.

Tatay Francis was born and raised in Kapdula since 1965. He has eight children; some yielded to farming while others pursued other industries. He doesn’t have a knack for other opportunities. This is why for Tatay Francis, agriculture is their only means to survive. “Minsan lugi. Umuutang ako ng puhunan para makabangon muli. Nababawi naman.”

I asked him while looking at his keen eyes about what he has to say to those constantly seizing their lands. His stern yet tenacious answer only encapsulated what the other farmers strive to assert.

“E kami naman e patuloy na naninindigan dito na makipaglaban. Sana maibigay ulit sa amin ‘yong lupa na dati namang talagang sa amin. Sana bitiwan na nila dahil hindi naman talaga sa kanila.”

Dustin and Denisse It peaked noon when the raging heat enfeebled us. After my first visit, I frequently went to Kapdula to offer my support and live with the farmers. I conversed, integrated, and immersed with them to further learn about their struggles and the reasons behind their conflict. While on our way, we met some farmers at the riverside. The heat compelled us to pause for a while.

The farmers offered us shelter under ampalaya vines and gave us fresh and sweet caimitos to savor. After some rest, we ascended uphill. There I met Dustin and Denisse.

Their innocence were the murals of hope for Kapdula—a lively painting that embodies the contrast of their future. Denisse is 11 years old, while Dustin, her younger sibling, is 9 years old. Their mother works abroad, so they were left under the custody of their grandmother who’s also a Kapdula farmer. Their wide smiles and shyness were evident and pleasing at first.

I asked what their names were and they answered with reservations, since they were not commonly accustomed to visitors in the camp. They have their balisong hanging around their neck as they kept running around the place. It was heartening to see how such innocence exists despite the unknowing predicaments around them. *** Pag-aararo. The Department of Agriculture (DA) revealed that the average age of farmers in the

Bakya writers

never absolutely enough. I would daresay that the doubt will haunt you for all eternity. People stories are never bakya topics.

To recall, I had a great chance to ask current Esquire Editor-in-Chief Kristine Fonacier about this matter at a journalism seminar held

One story always speaks for a whole

by The Heraldo Filipino (HF) earlier this year. She began telling us that on your part as a writer, it will never feel enough, but at some point it has to be—not necessarily because you wanted to—but because it should be. Deadlines, measures, compliance—all of these are needed to be published. “But the best part of what you wrote,” she said with conviction, “cannot be seen on the paper.” The best part will always be the experience, memory, and learning you had as you pursued your subject.

Philippines is 57 years old, which is relatively high compared to our neighboring Asian countries such as Vietnam, Japan, and China. The DA also disclosed that if this pressing issue will continue to be ignored, the country will experience a critical shortage of farmers in the next 15 years.

Our grasp for modernity and industrialization has compelled us to shrug off our agricultural sector.

The obscurity of our agricultural state demands our attention; given the challenges in the number of our farmers, our food security in the future is also at stake.

Due to feudalism, land grabbing, and industrialization, our farmers are losing their respective lands and are forced to submit to a capitalistic and oppressive labor market. In due time, we will lose them, and our chase for survival will be arduous. *** I spent the rest of the afternoon with the kids.

They brought me to nearby bayabas trees where they adorably enjoyed picking fruits and eating it straight away. We explored the terrains of the hill, telling stories of how their lives in Kapdula revolve every day.

I was enjoying our conversation when I noticed from afar that a goon crossing the hill was taking pictures of us. He was armed, and his reasons for capturing such moments was already beyond what I could imagine.

Dustin and Denisse were a reminder that the liberation of the farmers of Kapdula encompasses not only the rights of these farmers, but the future of their children. Like perishing undiscovered artworks, our farmers are getting old too, faster than what we can see and what we can imagine, and this entails a need to call for action. The children of the present will be the molders of the future, and to guide them on how to sculpt such solutions, there is a responsibility today to hand them those chisels. *** The sun was bleeding red as it succumbed to the horizon. The sky shifted to its dark form, and on our way down, I could hardly see the steps on the trek.

I was a blinded being following the sound of nature downhill. The late afternoon breeze touched my skin, and I was trembling every time I carefully place my feet on the right step.

As I ascended to the highway, my eyes got blurry from the dashing headlights. I was tired, but I was empowered with vigor.

Now it all trickles down to argue that it’s hard trying not to be a bakya writer after all, given the pressure that writers can always turn any narrative into a golden write-up. But no matter what, I will always seek to write these kinds of stories and encourage others to do so.

For what it’s worth, one story always speaks for a whole.

The intervention is the social responsibility, especially by the writers, to recognize the stories of the people in the local. The triumph, the failure, the pleasure, the struggles—to celebrate their victories and support them throughout their fights to serve as both reflection and inspiration.

I am beyond happy that in HF, writers have continued to focus on writing about individuals, groups, and even communities. For with those stories, we have encountered and shared real struggles that hurt both heart and stomach, and real battles that fuel both drive and dream.

I hope this will be taken to heart by everyone: listen to people.

LITERAR Y

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VOLUME 32 ISSUE 5

Tattoo lines

By Jason Christopher Paz and Bianca Isabelle Lariosa

The buzz of the air-conditioner echoed around the four corners of the room as Patricia watched her husband, Miguel, snap his eyes open to see nothing but white. Nailed on the ceiling were blinding white fluorescent lights waking him up from a midsummer slumber. The next thing he saw was the soft features of his wife’s face, the creases on her eyes stretching as they widened in shock. Trying to sit up straight, he felt a pain striking his abdomen like thunder rumbling in a calm sky. After attempts of trying to get up but only receiving a stinging pain that felt like it was cutting his skin open, he just stared at the ceiling, the lights flickering above him. With the white walls, the hard mattress curved behind his back, and the busy footsteps outside, they were in no doubt in a hospital.

“How are you feeling?” Patricia asked. She gave him a smile that failed to reach her eyes. Her husband couldn’t find his voice, his throat was dry as a dessert. The pain in his abdomen was slowly decreasing, but the train of thoughts still lingered in his mind.

“W-what happened?” He finally found his voice. Patricia pursed her lips, hesitant to answer. Miguel furrowed his eyebrows and asked her again, his voice a little bit sharper. She flinched.

The doctor suddenly entered the room, looking at the papers he was holding. He then glanced at Miguel.

“You’re awake! How are you doing, Miguel?”

“Um, I’m doing okay except for the pain here.” Touching his abdomen, Miguel winced a bit and asked what happened to him. The doctor adjusted his glasses and said that he was shot.

Shell-shocked, Miguel asked who shot him.

“It was a man named Henry Montoya. You were drinking with your friends when you both got into a fight.

Apparently, it escalated and he pulled a gun and shot you,” he couldn’t piece the words spurting from the doctor’s mouth. The name Henry Montoya was familiar but he couldn’t quite put his finger on it. His memory was just blank like a clean canvas by a frustrated painter.

“Shit, I don’t remember anything.”

“It seems like you got short-term memory loss from the concussion, but you’ll remember soon, don’t worry about it. Henry’s in jail now. That concussion put you to sleep for two days. How are you feeling?”

“My head hurts like hell. It’s like it’s going to explode.”

“We already prescribed you some medications. With regular intake and enough rest, you’ll be good as new,” the doctor gave him a smile that Miguel couldn’t return thanks to his skullbreaking headache. The doctor then informed them that Miguel could be discharged a week after or until he was feeling better. He said that the police would come by to question the couple about the incident. They both nodded and the doctor left them to give them a little privacy.

That afternoon, there was a couple of knocks on the hospital room door that revealed to be police officers. The couple was done eating their food when Patricia welcomed them. The police started by asking her husband about his condition, and he told him he was stable now. When they asked about her, she just nodded. The police started to ask them questions about the incident but because he still couldn’t remember anything, they focused their attention on Patricia. Asking about her location when the incident happened, she said she was in her parent’s house to visit their kid. They were going to ask more questions when she started to tense up that Miguel noticed, probably from the overwhelming questions, so he requested the police to stop questioning her.

Day after day, Patricia helped Miguel in everything he did—from assisting him in the bathroom to tucking him in bed like a toddler. Every day and every night, he would thank his wife for the time she spent with him. Her husband felt a little better as the wound started to heal. The doctor was pleased to tell the couple that Miguel could be discharged by the end of the week. But Miguel still couldn’t remember what happened the night he was shot.

Once they got home the following week, rows of picture frames displayed their family. Their eight-year old son, Kyle, was staying with Patricia’s parents as Miguel needed peace and quiet while healing at home. Patricia made a beeline to her room while her husband opened the television for the news. A gunman named Henry Montoya was featured, the reporter saying that he was charged in court for attempted murder. Miguel suddenly felt a sharp pain travel through his head that made him cry out in pain.

Images of bottles clinking and Henry and him meeting in a bar in his mind until there were another set of memories— being dragged and then, a gun blast.

He could remember that Henry was a stranger he struck a conversation that night judging from how they looked in

his memory. But how could he shoot him? What could they have fought over?

In the other room, Patricia heard her husband call her name.

“He’s coming. Stop calling me,” her voice was quiet but hurried. She heard a loud bang from the other room. He had been listening in on the other line, she just knew it. Miguel’s ears perked at her desperate tone. His suspicions began to take root, and as soon as she entered their bedroom, he grabbed her and firmly held her wrists.

“Who were you talking to, dear?” he said in a calm, steely voice.

Patricia quivered under his strength as she bit her lip in hesitation, “It was no one, just the same wrong caller.”

Miguel’s gut wouldn’t let it go.

Seconds passed as they stared at each other, their faces inches away from the other as they breathed each other’s air.

Patricia’s whimpers escaped her lips shakily.

“Let me go,” Patricia said firmly, as she pulled her hands away from his iron fists.

“No.” “You’re being paranoid,” she said, “Don’t be crazy.” As soon as the words left her lips, she knew she made a mistake as his eyes widened and his mouth slipped into a snarl.

Suddenly, Patricia’s line of vision saw an incoming fist inching dangerously closer to her face. Just as it drew near, she kneed him in the groin and he backed away hissing and cupping his member. Miguel pulled her hair and dragged her off to their bedroom.

Patricia could see her husband’s face reddening with sheer anger that bubbled inside him like thunderclouds.

He started punching and kicking her, his shadows mimicking his violent acts to Patricia’s shadow.

That’s all she was to him now—a shadow, something that he could easily manipulate into doing something she didn’t want to do. The once quiet room echoed Patricia’s cries and pleads to make him stop. It should’ve reached Miguel’s hearing—the cries of his wife being beaten, but it just escaped through his ears as he didn’t stop even as she began bleeding.

The white tiled floor was getting tainted by the drops of her blood.

Rummaging through his nightstand for his belt to hit her, he noticed a gun and took it out.

The gun was his, Patricia saw a twinkle of familiarity shine in his reddening eyes.

Holding the gun in his hand, Miguel slowly turned around to where Patricia was lying. Staring up at the fury of her husband, Patricia forgot that this was the same man she was bound to for life—the man she had vowed ‘till death do they part.

He threw her a smirk and returned the gun to the cabinet. He left the room in measured steps. Even the silence couldn’t drown her cries.

Later that night as she was cleaning herself up, Patricia heard her husband drunkenly unlock the front door of their home. He must have been out drinking again, like he always did before the incident. Back to his true self at last, she sighed to herself.

Patricia looked at her figure in the mirror. Ugly blotches of violet were stripped on her skin. She stopped counting the bruises as she lost faith in her husband. New bruises covered the old ones from months, years before.

Miguel always had anger management issues even before they got married, something that was only exacerbated by his excessive drinking. Patricia had always wanted to leave, forever planning her escape, but she couldn’t bear the thought of Kyle being left alone with his alcoholic father. As soon as her husband’s eyes fluttered open that day in the hospital, Patricia felt a ray of hope in her chest. Maybe they could start being a family again, maybe just maybe he could become the smart, idealistic Miguel she met when they were young.

But after today, Patricia’s hopes were bruised along with her. She had to leave him, once and for all. She would take Kyle with her and never look back. No more backing down. No more depending on other men to do the dirty work.

The following morning, she went down to the living room to see Miguel watching the news. His clothes were in a disarray and his groggy face indicated a massive hangover. The television showed reports about Henry Montoya again. But this time—he was talking to the reporters behind prison bars, explaining something that sent shivers up to Patricia’s spine.

“Yes, I shot him. But I was paid to do it! I shouldn’t be the only one rotting in this damn cage!”

The reporters went mad, trying to shove their recorders through the bars and beckoning Montoya to reveal his accomplice. Montoya looked straight into the camera, staring Patricia right into her soul. Sweat trickled down her temples, “It was his wife:

Patricia Alvarez. I tried calling her, but she didn’t want to talk to me! If you’re watching this now, you better goddamn pay for this too! You owe me!” ” Patricia felt her heart drop to her stomach. Miguel turned down the television.

“Is this true, dear?”

Miguel was still staring straight ahead at the blank screen and though his voice was smoot, Patricia could see his hands shake with anger—or perhaps still because of the alcohol he had consumed the night before. Patricia knew this type of anger, Miguel could move mountains and throw cars across neighborhoods with this quiet rage.

Patricia started to run.

Their footsteps scurried along the tiled floor as Miguel sprinted to catch up to his wife running upstairs to their bedroom. The nightstand screeched as Patricia forced it open. She fished out the gun and pointed at Miguel. Her fingers were shaking near the trigger, one slip would send the bullet flying.

That easy.

“H-how could you? You hired a hitman, dear?” Miguel asked, his face red and hot.. Miguel’s reaction appeared almost genuine to Patricia, the twenty-six year old in her wanted to drop the gun and embrace Miguel, but as soon as the thought crashed into her head she thought of all the years of pain she had endured, all the suffering she had gone through to be called the perfect mother, the supportive wife.

All these useless labels to be the kind of woman she thought she wanted to be.

“I know. I should have done it myself a long time ago.” Without a second thought, she pulled the trigger.

The room echoed a bang so loud it could have broken glass. Crimson gushed out of Miguel’s chest. Patricia saw him raising his fingers clad in his own blood and tremble. The floor caught him, he gasped, inhaled— anything to catch a whiff of oxygen as though that could save him. But it was too late. Patricia watched her husband keep his eyes open but only saw white.

Nailed on the ceiling was blinding white fluorescent lights like trying to wake him up from a midsummer slumber. The last thing Miguel saw was the soft features of his wife—now drenched in blood, and a sigh of relief escaping her lips. She placed the gun beside the nightstand smoke billowing from the muzzle above her husband’s body.

‘Till death do they part.

LITERAR Y

APRIL - MAY 2018 | PAGE 13

VOLUME 32 ISSUE 5

Bound

By Jason Christopher Paz

I have goosebumps every time you whisper my name; your deep voice tickling the creases of my navel. You are in front of me, your tail coiling around me, and I feel your heat seeping into my skin. Your dark eyes are looking into my soul, waiting for me to plunge into your darkness. I wait.

The silence of the room is comforting—we are in a void, a familiar galaxy only we know. Only we can venture. A void so dark and cold that astronauts would have a hard time mapping the stars to find their way

back home. The light of my cellphone pierces through the darkness that surrounds us. Although it’s distracting, I keep my eyes only on you. We don’t talk, but I know your eyes speak in volumes that even in space I can hear.

I’ve waited too long for this moment. The sun and the moon have battled long for their place in the sky, and their absence has cost great darkness to their children. I know of this darkness because I’ve seen it with my own two eyes; stark yet it evolves and has found itself a place in everyone’s hearts—

including mine. Yet while others fought for the darkness to make way for light to transcend and some grant permission for it to take over their vessels, I learned to control it.

There is a flash of fire and a paper appears between your fingers. I know what it is and I’ve been dreaming of this for a long time. You pass it to me, and I see my name under a long text that makes my heart stop for a minute.

You give me a pen, and I sign the paper with black ink. You smirk as the paper turns into crisp and ashes.

Life is a thread that shortens every day we breathe, making our time limited on earth. Time constrains us from unlocking our self-growth, the potential that is just waiting for us at the end of the tunnel. But time—it slows every molecule and atom in our body that it hinders us, or it makes us think that it did. It is a fool to make us believe that we cannot be greater than ourselves—that we are stuck in our dirty and corrupted vessels, waiting to turn into ashes one day. That is not our only purpose in life—that is not

my purpose. Surpassing time is my purpose, as it would lead to power, breaking the shackles that bind us.

Time is afraid because if we are able to unlock it, it would make us evolve, if we only know how to bargain.

You return to the cracks in the wall; I know you’re only a call away.

Even though you may not hear me in your home, we are now connected by a silver thread, and even a small pulse could send vibrations into our chests louder than the heaven’s trumpets.

Until we meet again.

Lantad

By Jason Christopher Paz

Huhukayin ko ang lupa kung saan kita iniwang nakahimlay, guguho ang lupa sa bawat halik nito sa pala.

Bubuksan ang ataul, matutuklasan ang iyong labi— lalanghapin ang masangsang na amoy mula sa iyong naaagnas na katawan.

Muling masisilayan ng buwan ang munting batingaw ng aking dibdib.

Kontra diskriminasyon

Bata pa lamang ako, inakala kong parte na ng paglaki ang pagyuko ng ulo, kasabay ng pagdako ng tingin sa mga itim kong sapatos na naging kulay puti dahil sa pumalibot na alikabok dulot ng buong araw kong paglalaro; sa tuwing patuloy na umaalingawngaw sa tainga ko ang mga tukso ng aking mga kaibigan sa bawat pagdaan ko sa harap nila. Inakala kong parte na ng paglaki ang pagpawisan kahit malamig ang binubugang hangin ng aircon sa aming silid-aralan sa tuwing mapapatingin sa akin ang mga kamag-aral ko at magbubulungan.

Minsan gusto ko na lang takpan ang aking mga tainga sa tuwing lalabas sa kanilang bibig ang mga salitang “bakla”, “mahina”, o “lampa”. Inakala kong parte na ng paglaki ang pagtitiis na nakakubli sa aking bawat buntong hininga, hihintayin na lamang na tumunog ang school bell na isang hudyat ng pagtatapos ng klase. Ito ang naranasan kong diskriminasyon, isang salitang hindi ko pa alam na malalim pala ang kahulugan, at alam kong marami pang ibang nakararanas din nito. Sabi ng mga nakatatanda, tayo’y dapat matutong lumaban, ngunit paano lalaban kung nagtatangkang tumakas agad ang aking mga luha bago pa man ako makapagsalita? Kung may mga batang natutong itikom ang kanilang kamao, sinarado ko na lamang ang aking labi, dahil kahit man katukin ko nang ilang beses ang aking boses ay wala namang magbubukas ng pintuan.

Nadiskurbre ko ang isang bill na nagsasaad na ipinagbabawal nang ma-discriminate ang mga taong nasa espektro ng LGBTQ+ o lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, at queer. Ang bill na ito ay tinawag na House Bill Number

4982, mas kilala bilang “An Act Prohibiting Discrimination on the Basis of Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity or Expression (SOGIE)” o SOGIE Equality Bill. Kasalakuyan ay nakapasa ito sa huling paghuhukom sa kapulungan ng mga kinatawan. Dahil isa rin naman ako sa makikinabang dito kapag ginawa itong batas, minabuti kong hanapin ito online at pag-aralan. Maliban sa proteksyon laban sa diskriminasyon, nakasaad ding bawal puwersahin ang isang indibidwal na kumonsulta sa isang sikologo para baguhin umano ang kaniyang pagkakakilanlan sa kasarian o seksuwalidad. Magbubukas din ng police desks na tatanggap ng mga reklamo ng diskriminasyon mula sa LGBTQ+ community. Ipinagbabawal ding puwersahin ang indibidwal na ibunyag ang kaniyang seksuwalidad.

Nang malaman ko ito, tila may hiwagang bumalot sa puso ko dahil iniisip ko pa lang kung ilang mga buhay ang masasalba ng bill na ito, at noong inisip ko—siguro masasalba rin ako nito kung dati pa itong naisabatas.

Alam kong hindi lamang ako ang nakatatanggap ng diskriminasyon. Hindi lang ako ang nakatatanggap ng kakaibang tingin mula sa mga tao sa tuwing gugustuhin kong maglaro ng manika kaysa sa kotse; datapwat marami rin sa atin ang naghintay para sa bill na ito dahil naranasan din nila ang aking mga naranasan noon.

Samantala, hindi rin lingid sa ating kaalamang ang Pilipinas ay isang katolikong bansa at malaking bagay pa rin para sa mga Pilipino ang pagbibigay respeto sa Simbahang Katoliko at sa bibliya. Noong inanunsyo ang SOGIE, marami ang natuwa, pero marami rin ang nagpahayag ng kanilang protesta, pagbabatikos, at pagsasabing isa itong sampal sa relihiyon. Gayunpaman, nabasa ko ang ibang artikulong nagsasaad ng pagkontra nito sa panukalang batas. Kahit na ang karamihan nito ay mga argumentong nagpapakita ng saradong kaisipan bunga sa mentalidad na naka-angkla pa rin sa relihiyon, kailangan ko pa rin itong ikonsidera dahil hindi naman

laging isang perspektiba ang dapat na isasaalang-alang.

Ayon kay Senador Jose Villanueva, ang pagkakaroon ng SOGIE ay mangangahulugan din ng pagkakaroon ng mga “espesyal na karapatan” sa mga LGBTQ+. Mawawalan umano ng pananagutan ang mga lumalabag sa batas na kasama sa LGBTQ+ dahil sila ay sakop ng SOGIE. Ngunit ang layunin ng bill na ito ay hindi para bigyan sila ng “free pass” upang makatakas sa mata ng batas, kundi ay pagtibayin pa ang kanilang karapatang pangtao dahil sa hindi makataong pakikitungong kanilang natatanggap mula sa lipunan. Nakapanlulumong isiping kailangan

Ang SOGIE ay isang hakbang pasulong sa sistemang humahakbang na paurong pa nito ng hiwalay na batas upang makita ang mali sa sistema—ang sistema na nakasanig pa rin sa tradisyonal na pamantayan.

Dati pa man, may ginawa nang panukalang batas na tinawag ay House Bill 267 o ang “Anti-Discrimination Bill (ADB) on the Basis of Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity” noong 2001 na ang layunin ay pareho lang din sa SOGIE: wakasan ang hindi pantay na pagtingin ng lipunan tungo sa LGBTQ+. Ngunit ang ADB, kagaya ng SOGIE, ay hindi nakatakas sa mga konserbatibong pananaw ng gobyerno at ng masa. Walang nararating ang usapin kaya nagiging istatik lamang ang gustong makitang progreso ng mga tao.

Marami ang nabibiktima ng diskriminasyon.

Marami ang mga boses na hindi dinidinig at patuloy na isinasantabi—tatakpan ang mga tainga at

hihintayin na lamang na mawala ang alingawngaw ng mga api.

Aminin man nati’t sa hindi, sarado pa rin ang kaisipan ng karamihan sa mga Pilipino patungkol sa komunidad ng LGBTQ+. Kaakibat nito ang kabagalan ng progreso ng SOGIE upang ito ay maisabatas.

Maaaring malabo sa Pilipinas ang tunay na pagtanggap ng LGBTQ+ dahil ngayon pa lang tayo nagsisimulang mamulat tungkol sa mga bagay-bagay na bago sa atin. Ngunit sa tagal na pagkakakubli sa dilim ng mga LGBTQ+, mas umaalab lang ang aming adhikaing makakita ng pagbabago—tunay na pagbabago. Tama na ang pagtatakip ng tainga at pagsara ng mga talukap sa pang-aaping nangyayari sa LGBTQ+. Habang parami nang parami ang mga kaso ng diskriminasyon sa Pilipinas, nakakapagod at nakakasawa nang iasa ang lahat sa sistema ng kasalukuyang administrasyong sarado naman ang kaisipan. Kailangan nating maunawaang ang kahalagahan ng kaunlaran ng isang progresibong bansa ay hindi nakasanig sa kakayahan nitong sumunod sa nakasanayan, pero sa kakayahan nitong kilalanin at akapin nang buongbuo ang pagkakaiba ng mga tao. Datapwat marami pa ang dapat tatahakin upang tunay na matanggap ang LGBTQ+ sa Pilipinas, ang SOGIE ay isang hakbang pasulong sa sistemang humahakbang na paurong. Isa ring hakbang ito upang makita ang totoong kakayanan ng komunidad ng LGBTQ+ bilang isang malakas at matatag na sektor ng lipunan. Ngayon na ang tamang panahon na isabatas ang SOGIE dahil hindi lang natin wawakasin ang pagmamaltrato at pang-aapi sa mga LGBTQ+. Hindi lang ito magbibigay ng daan upang maging malaya sila na ihayag ang kanilang sarili na walang bahid ng takot o pagkahiya. Isa rin itong susi na magbubukas pa ng napakarami pang nakandadong diskurso na naghihintay lamang mabuksan.

S PORT S

APRIL - MAY 2018 | PAGE 14

VOLUME 32 ISSUE 5

CAGEBELLES from page 16 few minutes of the game with a 10-digit lead over Region 11, 18-8. Against the same championship competitors last year, the cagebelles got back on track with an 8-0 run with Analine Duran leading the way until the end of the first quarter, 18-16.

It was a neck-and-neck battle from then on. Region IV-A again topped Region 11 in the opening minutes of the second canto with a 5-0 run, 2318, but Davaoeña Cherry Ann Diagbel capped their own run to get their first lead of the game, 23-24.

CALABARZON refused to surrender the lead that easily.

They got the cushion back with Reyes’ lay-up, 29-28. Davaoeña Judy Ann Maquisid went for trip in the free throw line and tied the scores at 29-29. The two teams fought hard for the lead in the second quarter’s dying minutes as CALABARZON attempted to secure the lead with Reyes’ layup, but Davao Region’s Disney Lampara fired back with her own lay-up to seal the scores at 31-all by the end of the quarter.

Region IV-A once again proved their dominance in the

hardcourt. The third quarter saw the PRISAA – Natl’s 2017 queens lead over the Davaoeñas by as much as 9 points in the dawning minutes, 45-36. They made it hard for the Davaoeñas to even get an inch closer to the driver’s seat. Escotido shined in the third as she put up nine of her 18 total points through her sweet dribbling skills and acrobatic layups. CALABARZON finished the quadrant with a 10-digit lead, 56-46.

In the fourth frame, the Davaoeñas went into beast mode. Region 11 managed to control the pace of the game and outscored CALABARZON 23-12 in the last quarter. They opened the frame with a 9-4 surge to cut the lead to 6.

CALABARZON’s offense went downhill from there when Davao Region’s defensive pressure was all over Dauis covered court.

Region IV-A’s spark came from Villeza’s lay-up, 63-55, who stopped Region IV-A’s bleeding caused by the Davaoenas 9-4 run. But the Davaoenas’ improved momentum held on and caused another 6-0 run to cut the lead to four, 63-60.

In the next possession, Davaoeña Diagbel was caught with a technical foul. Again, Villeza saved Region IV-A with a shot from the stripe, 64-60.

However, the free throw didn’t stop the Davaoeñas as they forced another 6-0 run to finally catch the driver’s seat, 64-66.

CALABARZON’s Chloewin Coroza, last year’s PRISAA Nat’ls basketball finals gamesaver in Zambales, proved again her clutch game as she shot a hard lay-up under the rim, 66 all. Coroza churned in a lay-up with a minute left in the match to finally have the lead, 68-66.

It looked they’ve won the game at 68-67 but Davao Region’s Joan Cate Dosdos attacked the rim and was fouled by Coroza.

The Davaoeña sank the two free throws, 68-69, with 13.3 seconds left in the clock—13.3 seconds that endangered the six-peat Nat’ls crown of the cagebelles.

Eventually, the worst of the worst came. Region IV-A’s Escotido managed to get closer to the rim for a chance but was unable to sink the ball with the towering Region XI in front of her, 68-69.

Unstoppable tennis-ity. Ending the tourney with a heavy heart, Region IV-A paddler Corriza Soriano bows down before her opponent in the PRISAA - Nationals held from April 22 to 28 at Tagbilaran City Bohol.

Photo by Jean Quinto

Patriot shuttlers lead Region IV-A with 1 silver and 4 bronze in nat’ls

by Fernan Patrick Flores The DLSU-D badminton team fashioned out of this year ’s Private Schools Athletics Association – Nationals with flying colors after seizing one silver and four bronze medals in the team tie and individual events held from April 23 to 27 at the Time-Out Sports Center at Galleria Luisa mall in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

SWIFT STROKES. Patriot Tanker Angelica Salazar brought home the silver medal at the women’s 200-meter medley relay event during the PRISAA - Nat’ls held from April 22 to 28 at Tagbilaran, Bohol.

Photo by Pia Marantan

Despite succumbing to Western Visayans in the finale, DLSU-D duo Dana Enriquez and John Michael Navarro took the spotlight after seizing the lone silver medal for Patriots in the mixed doubles event. Before the heartbreaking finale match, Enriquez and Navarro overpowered Davao region’s Gerol Biglang Awa and Hazel Sayson with dominating 21-11 and 21-7 tallies in the semis match.

In the women’s doubles match, Enriquez, together with Patriot Jenniline Lupango, entered the semis bout but ended their campaign from a loss against

Region XII’s Jessa Tenchavez and Michelle Alvarez with tight 1321, 21-18, and 18-21 scores and settled for bronze.

The male tandem of Navarro and Jan Adrian Pullon gained another bronze in their semifinals match against Region VII’s Alfredo Armamento and Peter Jester Amirol, 21-11 and 21-12.

Before the individual events, the CALABARZON shuttlers already proved their prowess in the team tie event as they secured two bronze medals in the women’s and men’s division.

Patriots Lupango, duo Enriquez and Shai Osorio, and

Rizal’s Rosenie Joyce Calipos launched easy straight-set wins for Region IV-A against contenders from Region V and Region X before reaching the semis. But Region XII closed the curtains for the Southern Luzon contenders in the semifinals match, 3-0 and 3-0, for another bronze in CALABARZON’s tally.

The men shuttlers comprised of Patriots Pullon and Navarro faced the same scenario after dropping the finals opportunity against the Central Visayans during the semis round, 1-2 and 0-3.

Ang hindi pinapahalagang berde

Dalawang beses ko nang napapanood ang inaabangang basketball finals ng Intramurals sa DLSU-D dahil kino-cover ko ang mga ito bilang isang sports writer. Nakikita ko ang tila berdeng dagat ng College of Engineering, Architecture, and Technology (CEAT). Ino-obserbahan ko ang maliliit na detalye tulad ng malulupit na lay-up ng mga manlalaro, iba’t ibang away, palitan ng three-pointers na nagpapasigaw sa magkabilang panig, at mismong mga manonood. Kung ikukumpara mo ito sa mga laro ng Patriots, makikita mong malayo ang pagkakaiba. Sa paglalarawan ko pa lang sa mga manonood bilang “a sea of green”, agad na makikita ang malaking pagkakaiba ng isang Intramurals game at ng Patriots. Kagaya ng Intramurals, ang mga laro ng Patriots ay maaksyon at mainit rin.

Subalit ang pinagkaiba nito, tila walang sumusuporta sa kanila maliban ang kanilang mga pamilya, physical therapists, janitors, at ang kanilang mga sarili. Sila ay tila hindi kilala ng kanilang mga kapwa Lasalyano.

Kung bibigyang pansin ang ating basketball women, makikitang minsa’y halos isang daang puntos ang kanilang lamang sa kalaban. Sa volleyball women at men naman natin, minsa’y straight set ang kanilang

mga kalaban. Kung manonood kayo ng kanilang mga laro, lalo na ang mga dikitang laban, madadala ka sa emosyon mo kahit walang tao na para bang ikaw ang mismong kasama nila sa paglalaro. Bukod sa mainit ang laban ay kasi nga, kaunti ang tao—walang “sea of green” na madalas nating nakikita sa Intramurals.

Samantala, ang ating athletics at swimming team ay humahakot ng napakaraming medalya sa mga nakaraang taon. Hindi na ako magbabanggit pa ng iba. May sari-sariling hakot ng medalya ang bawat pangkat. At kasing exciting rin ito ng mga laro sa Intramurals.

Isa lamang din ang napapansin ko, isang stereotype ng mga Lasalyano sa ating mga atleta ay ang palagi nilang pagkasawi sa mga laro—na nagpapakita lamang ng kakulangan ng mga ito sa sapat na kaalaman tungkol sa Patriots. Kung maaari na lamang ibato sa kanila ang mga tropeyo ng mga atleta.

Kamakailan lang ngayong taon, naging kampeon ang ating basketball women sa National Capital Region Athletic Association (NCRAA) at kasalukuyang nanguguna sa national level sa Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA). Ang volleyball men naman ay nakakuha ng pangatlong puwesto sa PRISAA Nat’ls. Bukod rito, ang volleyball men ace na si Eddiemar Kasim ay siyang nakapasok sa 25-man pool ng Men’s National Volleyball Team ng Pilipinas.

Maraming napanalunan ang mga atletang ito tulad

nga PRISAA, NCRAA, University Games, at iba pang lokal na sinasalihan nilang liga. Kahit nga sa ibang bansa ay nakikipagsabayan ang ating mga atleta.

Kagaya na lamang ng nagtapos na long-jumper na si Felyn Dolloso. Noong nakaraang taon lamang ay lumaban ang long-jumper sa Taipei. Tila minamani

Kung kaya natin punuin ang ULS tuwing Intramurals, kaya rin nating mapuno ito tuwing may laro ang Patriots lang nito ang mga lokal na liga. At ang mga nabanggit ko’y iilan lamang sa mga napanalunan ng ating Patriots, na matinding pinaghahandaan ng ating varsities. Biruin mo, maaga silang gumigising para sa kanilang ensayo tuwing ala singko ng umaga, habang ang iba nama’y lumiban pa sa kanilang klase upang ibandera ang pangalan ng DLSU-D sa ibang lugar at lumaban. Halos araw-araw sa isang buong taon silang lumalaban kasama ang hangaring mapagtagumpayan ang mga laban, hindi lang para sa kanilang mga sarili ngunit para na rin sa ating unibersidad.

Habang sila’y nagsasakripisyo’t nag-aalay ng kanilang pawis at dugo, hiling ko rin lamang na nawa’y hindi lang dapat sa estudyante mangagaling ang suporta, sana ay sa taas rin bukod pa sa suportang pang-pinansyal. Alam nating kailangan din ng pagkilala sa ating mga atleta upang sila ay mas mabigyang pansin ng nakararami, lalo na ng ating mga estudyante. Ito ay dahil kasabay nito ang mas maraming oportunidad na mabibigay hindi lang sa loob ng eskwelahan na ito, ngunit pati sa labas.

Simpleng paglalagay ng tarpaulin sa mga lugar kung saan madalas na naglalagi ang mga estudyante ay malaki na ring ambag.

Mula sa nabanggit kong stereotype ng mga Lasalyano sa atleta, sa tingin ko ay mas tinitingnan natin ang pagkatalo ng ating Patriots. Totoo nga, sumasalamin ito sa lipunang ginagalawan natin.

Ngunit ang pagkatalo ay kasama sa proseso.

Hangga’t hindi natin pinapahalagahan ang pagkatalo, hindi natin maapapahalagahan ang pagkapanalo. Ang pagkawala ng isa ay pagkawalan ng esensya ng isa.

Isang salik ng laro ay ang audience. Kaya may tinatawag na homecourt advantage. Ngunit sa napapansin ko, hindi man lang napupuno ang mga upuan sa Ugnayang La Salle (ULS) kahit may laro ang mga Patriots dito. Kung kaya natin punuin ang ULS tuwing Intramurals, kaya rin nating mapuno ito tuwing may laro ang Patriots.

S PORT S

APRIL - MAY 2018 | PAGE 15

Soriano-Zapanta paddler duo grab 2 bronze for Patriots in PRISAA - Nat’ls

by Fernan Patrick Flores Patriot paddlers Corizza Soriano and Rosalyn Zapanta reinforced the CALABARZON squad as they harvested two bronze medals in this year ’s Private Schools Athletics Association (PRISAA) – Nationals held at the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) in Tagbilaran City, Bohol from April 23 to 26.

The Soriano-Zapanta duo halted their journey on the way to the finale after falling short in the women’s doubles semis match against the hosts Central Visayans as they settled for bronze.

Pairing with Batangas’ John Mauty Valenzuela in the mixed doubles event, Soriano captured another bronze for the Patriots after Region VII’s paddlers ousted the Patriots in the semifinals match.

Meanwhile, joining Laguna’s Ana Lei Cuapiaco and Batangas’ Jackie Lou Jaro, Soriano and Zapanta exited the women’s team tie event at 1-1 record against their Boholano and Cebuano opponents.

Leading 20-16, Region IV-A seemed to have the third frame in tow until Fortunato Libres caught fire.

Libres unleashed sure-hit spikes along with team captain Nicole Van Filli Oculam’s sharp consecutive ace that slashed Region VII’s deficit down to one, 21-22. Both teams squandered service errors but John Baluca ace lifted Central Visayans to set point, 24-23.

Despite Baluca’s service error that forced a deuce in the third frame, Region VII managed to snatch a two-set victory through Tubilag’s spike and Kasim’s spiking error, 26-24.

Despite trailing by as much as four points at the start of the fourth frame, 8-12, the Patriots doubled their offense led by Adam’s kill and two aces along with Salapuddin’s hit, 12-all.

CALABARZON gave freebies to their opponent through a series of errors but the efforts of imports Nelson Olla of Batangas and Karl Paras of UPHSJ-GMA were also witnessed in the blocking department. The two’s combined effort defensively gave the Southern Tagalog spikers a 23-20 lead followed by a pair of clutch spikes from Adam and Kasim forced a decider set, 2523.

The momentum of both teams dissolved in the final canto as the scores went to a

neck-neck and tempo up until 10-all.

Pulling off a blocking party, imports Olla and Paras tandem in the blocking region worked as they roofed three straight spikes from Region VII’s Peliño that pushed Region IV-A inches closer to the victory, 13-10.

The veteran outside hitter Kasim slapped a hit off the blockers that gave CALABARZON a bronze title in the nationals’ stint, 15-11.

SPIKERS from page 16 attacks, four aces, and two blocks, while teammate Aidam Adam shared 27 points from 23 attacks and four aces. With these performances, Kasim and Adam were awarded the best attacker and best server in the mythical six, respectively.

Road to bronze Region IV-A cruised to open the match, grabbing a huge 23-14 lead in the first set and staving off late Region VII runs. The Central Visayans got within six, 23-17, but the CALBARZON squad scored the next two points to take a 1-0 lead courtesy of Adam and Kasim’s consecutive kills, 2517.

Region VII’s scoring machine Melvin Tubilag went to work early in the second set as he led a 9-4 run against the Patriot-blooded spikers.

Through Kasim and Adam’s attacks and aces, Region IV-A clawed back up and tied the scores at 13-all, but the determined Boholanos and Cebuanos set a distance up until 23-19 advantage.

CALABARZON attempted to take over and grab a twoset advantage via Chandler Salapuddin’s spike and opponent’s attack error, but the Visayans claimed the second set after Kasim’s outside error, 2125.

Racelis in, Gako out Due to personal matters, Patriot spikers’ head coach Mikko Gako was unable to attend his national’s debut.

Sports Development Office (SDO) and the PRISAA – officials decided to hand over the coaching responsibility to Patriot women’s volleyball team head coach Joven Racelis.

However, Racelis noted that Gako’s system remained in the Region IV-A spikers’ play during the competition but he also implemented his own style of coaching in the battle for bronze match.

“Ginawa ko ‘yong coaching style [ni coach Mikko], ‘yon ang in-apply ko sa kanila. Sabi ko tapang ang kailangan kasi nga lumubog ‘yong morale nila.

Tapang ang kailangan sa loob ng court,” he furthered.

VOLUME 32 ISSUE 5

SPORTS BRIEFS Fueling themselves with the Animo pride, the DLSU-D tracksters, tankers, woodpushers, and lone jin, together with fellow CALABARZON teammates, bannered the green-and-white flag in the nationals scene despite bagging only one silver medal in this year ’s week-long Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) – Nationals held at Tagbilaran City, Bohol from April 23 to 28.

CALABARZON Tracksters secure places in PRISAA – Nat’ls

by Rose Kristine Amarillo

Despite having a no-medal finish, the DLSU-D Tracksters landed places as they ended their journey in the PRISAA – Nationals’ Athletics tournament at the Carlos P. Garcia Sports Complex in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

Patriots Jasmin Martinez and Marie Orevillo placed fourth in the 100-meter and 200-meter dash events, and in the 400-meter run and 400-meter hurdles events, respectively.

Although he failed to enter the 100-meter run event’s championship round, Patriot Trackster Christian Valdenarro finished sixth in the 200-meter dash event.

Meanwhile, Region IV-A Tracksters still managed to enter the final round of the 4x100 and 4x400-meter relay in the last day of the nationals tourney but fell short to capture a medal.

Patriot tankers finish PRISAA Nat’ls with 1 silver

by Rose Kristine Amarillo

Together with CALABARZON lady tankers Red Galay, Erloise Lukang, Mica Rago, and Denise Tapawan, Patriot Jessica Salazar aided the team to secure a silver medal by clocking 2:34.22 in the senior women’s 200-meter medley relay event in the PRISAA – Nationals Swimming bout held at the Victoriano D. Tirol Advances Learning Center Aquatic Center in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

Patriot tanker Salazar also splashed onto the fifth and eighth place of the senior women’s 400-meter Long Course Freestyle event with 6:28.38 final time and the 200-meter Long Course Individual Medley events with 3:31.61 record, respectively.

Dropping a bronze medal, Patriot Elbert Gene Paguia finished the senior men’s 400-meter individual medley event with a final time of 6:24.84.

Marking a 3:01.88-record, Paguia settled in the

eighth place of the senior men’s 200-meter long course individual medley event.

With the help of Patriot tanker teammates Vincent Llaguno and John Paul De Leoz, Paguia also stepped in the fourth spot of the men’s 200-meter freestyle event with 1:54.99 seconds.

Meanwhile, Patriot Llaguno notched the ninth place of the senior men’s 200-meter long course individual medley event, the eleventh place of 50-meter long course butterfly event, and the sixteenth place of the 50-meter long course breaststroke event.

Successfully securing a throne in the top five, Patriot De Leoz seized the fifth spot in the senior men’s 400-meter long course Freestyle event. On the other hand, De Leoz ranked seventh in the senior men’s 50-meter long course Butterfly event.

CALABARZON’s women woodpushers rank 3rd in overall team standings

by Rose Kristine Amarillo

Patriot Woodpusher Christine Hernandez, together with CALABARZON teammates Fatima Leocario and Grace Bakingkito notched the bronze medal of the overall women’s chess team standings at the Bohol Institute of Technology (BIT) AVR Room, Tagbilaran City,

Bohol. Meanwhile, the Region IV-A’s men’s chess team grabbed the fifth place in the men’s division of the competition.

In the women’s individual standings, Patriot Hernandez and Paula Bianca Manalo captured the 13th and 17th place.

Lone Patriot Jin drops a bronze in Nat’ls bout

by Rose Kristine Amarillo

Swift shut tles. Region IV-A shuttlers Dana Enriquez and John Michael Navaro smashed their opponents while grabbing the silver spot during the PRISAA - Nat’ls mix doubles held from April 22 to 28 at Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

Photo by Jean Quinto

On April 25, lone Patriot Jin Sajawal Waheed lost against Region II in the PRISAA – Nationals Taekwondo bronze match due to overlapping violations in a battle at the English, Science, & Math (EnSciMa) Gym, Tagbilaran City, Bohol. Waheed said that stamina was one of the factors of the loss.

Before the finals, Waheed achieved a win by a technical knockout against Region III in his first nationals game at the EnSciMa Gym. “May next year pa, babawi talaga ako,” still aiming for greener pastures, Patriot Waheed shared.

Waheed also mentioned that his defeat will serve as an inspiration for him to come back to the tournament.

APRIL - MAY 2018 | PAGE 16

april - may 2018

VOLUME 32 ISSUE 5

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SPORTS NEWS Patriot shuttlers page 14

SPORTS NEWS Patriot paddlers page 15

Sports BRIEFS PRISAA- Nat’ls page 15

A hard loss. After bringing in gold for six consecutive years, the Patriot cagebelles ended their streak after bowing down to the Region 11, 68-69, during the PRISAA - Nationals held from April 22 to 28 at Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

Photo by Pia Marantan

Region IV-A cagebelles slips against Region XI in Nat’ls, 68-69 Kobe Caronongan leads CALABARZON cagers in Nat’ls battle for bronze

by John Zedrick Simeon After a six-peat reign in the Private Schools Athletic Association (PRISAA) – Nationals, the Region IV-A cagebelles were dethroned by last year ’s first placers, Region XI, with scores of 68-69 in the women’s basketball finals held at Dauis Covered court on April 27.

Despite the loss, Rizal’s Anna Kristel Escotido and Diane Reyes were included in the Mythical Five. The two had 18 and 10 points respectively to aid the red-and-white cagebelles.

Meanwhile, University of Perpetual Help – JONELTA’s Anna Joy Villeza, who was

fouled out in the final quarter, marked 13 points.

Meanwhile, the CALABARZON men’s basketball team with Patriots Kobe Caronongan and Jastine Kyle Amponin grabbed the third place versus Region 1 in Barder Gym, Tagbilaran City, Bohol, on the

same day, while Caronongan led the bronze battle with 20 points.

Losing the 6-peat At first, it just looked like another game for the Region IV-A cagebelles who led the first See CAGEBELLES | page 14

MEDAL HAUL. The Patriots racked up a total of 86 medals in the PRISAA - Nationals tournament held at Tagbilaran City, Bohol, from April 22 to 28. The various varsity teams in attendance bagged 6 gold, 37 silver, and 43 bronze.

Infographic by Alyssa Jane Mordido

Region IV-A spikers grab bronze, oust Central Visayans, 3-2

by Fernan Patrick Flores The CALABARZON spikers trashed Region VII’s homecourt advantage to take home bronze through a nail-biting 25-17, 21-25, 24-26, 25-23, and 15-12 five-setter in this year ’s Private Schools Athletics Association (PRISAA) – Nationals held from April 23 to 27 at the University of Bohol Gymnasium in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

Back on track. Entering the Nationals’ scene once again, CALABARZON spiker Aidam Adam bombarded rival Region VII while securing third place for Region IV-A in PRISAA - Nationals held from April 22 to 28 at Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

Photo by Jean Quinto

“May lapses do’n sa nakaraang game and may kulang talaga do’n (semis match)…

Para sa bronze, ginawan ng paraan ng coaches and players, nagkaisa [sila] para makuha ‘yon

(victory),” substitute Region IV-A spikers coach Joven Racelis said.

CALABARZON missed the chance to enter the finals berth after bowing down to

Davao region in a hard-fought four-set loss, 22-25, 25-19, 2325, and 16-25, in the semifinals round.

Patriot Eddiemar Kasim loaded 29 points from 23 See SPIKERS | page 15