The Carrier Magazine Vol. 55 NO. 1 | August - November 2022

TheCarrier

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF JOHN B. LACSON COLLEGES FOUNDATION (BACOLOD), INC.

VOLUME 55. NO. 1 AUGUST-NOVEMBER 2022

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

D/Cdt. Joshua B. Malapitan

MANAGING EDITOR

Mdpn. Bab Christian D. Sanchez

FEATURE EDITOR

Mdpn. Vince Dave T. Duquilla

LITERARY EDITOR

Jeremy Josh Alojado

LAYOUT AND GRAPHIC EDITOR

Emmy S. Nava

PHOTOJOURNALISTS

Mdpn. Jules Andrie E. Ermeo Mdpn. Emman Giordan T. Jagmoc

CARTOONIST

Antonio Ricardo B. Nobleza

STAFF WRITERS

Mdpn. John Leigh M. Defante Mdpn. Angelo Ryan D. Giltendez Mdpn. Jethro Rei D. Giltendez

Danielle G. Grapa

Mdpn. Jojo Ken T. Montalvo Mdpn. Carwin D. Pagunsan

MODERATOR

Ms. Grace D. Ibardolaza, MME

OFFICE

Door 1, PEA Center, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation (Bacolod), Inc., Alijis, Bacolod City 6100

ASSISTANT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Mdpn. Jerric R. Claridad

ASSISTANT MANAGING

EDITOR

ABOUT THE COVER

SPORTS EDITOR

Angelic Cheil E. Feril Mdpn. Sean Sergie J. Ladrido

NEWS EDITOR

SENIOR PHOTOJOURNALIST

Mdpn. Mark G. Cortez Nele Stephen M. Pacurib

GRAPHIC ARTISTS

Beanne Y. Jaca Mdpn. Jerammel Leandro L. Anlap

“Ay hindi ka na magpalapit sa iya kay damak na sa”

“Hala! may HIV ka? Agi ka gali?”

Scan to read.

The Carrier jblcfbthecarrier jblcfbthecarrier

EDITORIAL POLICY. TheCarrier is published once every year as the official magazine of John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation (Bacolod), Inc., Pauline Village, Alijis, Bacolod City. TheCarrier accepts original articles from students and faculty. We edit contributed articles and provide correction for write-ups that need modification or improvement. All contributions must be legibly written and double-spaced. All submitted articles automatically become properties of TheCarrier.

These are just some of the horri fying notions behind why there are people who are afraid to tell their stories to the world. Even though we have made great strides in re cent years, there is still a lot of stig ma associated with sexual activity in general and HIV in particular. This is due to the fact that there is still a lot of false information out there and that many people are reluctant to discuss these issues in public.

EDITOR’S NOTE

Humans as we are, we have an innate need to under stand what’s going on around us. Yet, it’s sometimes unfortunate that the people we consider to be in con trol of how we perceive things are not often the people who are most affected by it.

For the longest time, as we try to move forward, especially now that we are in the recovery phase from the crisis we’ve experienced, we cannot deny the fact that our society has played a huge role in why some one is either afraid or ecstatic to tell his stories to the world. Some are scared that they might be judged just because of what they have on their plate, but there are also people who are very proud to share their journey but don’t have enough power to reach a wider audience and create a ripple effect on the world.

It’s important that the way we think about certain things is not skewed by a select few. It’s about time we

shed light on what has been stereotyped or stories that were not given enough attention, whether it be people, culture, or an act. Featuring narratives of the unheard can bring on a new wave of fresh perspective and we want to be part of that change.

By giving prominence to these stories, we can help create a more inclusive and just society, ensuring that everyone feels seen and heard.

Given our platform, we would like to highlight peo ple’s stories and experiences this time—to help people understand the other side of the coin; to enlighten them that they are more than what society has labelled them to be.

May this foster a pleasant environment and implant in us the notion that there is, in fact, more to life than what we now understand.

JOSHUA B. MALAPITAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

of Athletes

Behind the Lens: A Life Seen Through the Eye of Film

Both seats are head-on. The lapels and cameras are on set. “Take one, three, two, one, Rolling!” Transcending through the lens of a yawing life opens the lid of hope.

words

The Beginning

Growing up, Lloyd Kevin Guanzon was raised in a family that enjoyed sharing tales about their encounters with her grandma. His life is massively impacted by their stories, which sparks a passion for existentialism and the analysis of narratives to compre hend people at their atomical levels.

“I used to be less empathetic before, always judging people without knowing their stories until I became some one else’s story’’ Guanzon said. This resolved to him with the same experience realizing he is not alone. “I had an insight of how powerful the stories can be if handled properly… I wanted to create a safe area where people could openly share their stories and start conversations to inspire and educate the audience one narrative at a time.”

The Narratives by Lloyd is a mini-documentary episode that empowers people’s stories through a sympathetic lens to instill kindness and understanding in its audience. These stories try to evoke “the same but different” experiences from human consciousness in the hopes that the audience will recognize themselves in them.

by Mdpn. Jerric Claridad and Mdpn. Bab Christian Sanchez photo courtesy of Mdpn. Bab Christian Sanchez

"When I finally decided to push through the project, it took another three months to fully see the result because I had to find people and share their story in front of the screen, and man, it was not a walk in the park,"

Sending the Message Across

The main question Lloyd usually asks himself when he sits down and mulls over a topic is, “How will I get the message across?” This serves as the lifeblood of his project. Through other people’s stories, their unfiltered emotions, and their experiences, he could dive into their worlds and rekindle the connection that had been broken due to the easy existence social media had made possible and understand that they aren’t suffering in silence.

The Waypoint from a Distorted Vision

The project has lain dormant for Lloyd for more than three years; he has struggled to bring it to life because of his inhibitions and boarding the vessel as a Second Mate for the Maersk Line. Everything he had envisioned dissipated into thin air.

Lloyd reached out to a few editors to propose a collab oration with lesser pay; however, he was turned down by eight video editors until he met Jeyg Jerota. “It was also a financial struggle as I had to shell out money to look for stories and video editing. But reading my viewers’ positive responses and personal messages is a fair trade-off,” he stated.

A Message to Youth

Guanzon never considered himself creative when he was still in his institution, nor did he see himself doing what he is right now. “I did not know what my dream was back then. I was lost, and society at large will try to funnel you into choosing a specific lane that they can understand.” He continued, “We are trained to chase certain things that will always leave us restless, tired, and unfulfilled. But there comes the point in your life where you realize that you are worth more than your work. You end up in a corner vacillat ing whether you’re going to compartmentalize and stay in your lane or you’re going to do something meaningful for yourself even if that means starting all over again.”

Although it may be difficult to see now, Lloyd chose the latter, and this decision gives his life purpose. If we don’t learn to accept what we know, we’ll never be able to change it. Don’t inquire about what the world needs; as Howard Thurman once advised, “Ask what makes you come alive. Because the world needs more people who have come alive.”

Wildcard Queen

Lacsonian makes history as first ever Aliwan Festival Digital Queen finalist from Bacolod. The story and experience of Jeaven Iyl Musni in her Pageant life and how she manages to balance education, personal life and pageantry.

words by Jeremy Josh Alojado

Jeaven Iyl Musni, 20 years of age, a second-year Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) student of John B. Lacson Colleges Foun dation-Bacolod, Inc. (JBLCF-B) makes history as the first-ever Bacolodnon queen to enter the grand finals of the Aliwan Festival Digital Queen (AFDGQ).

Aliwan Fiesta is an annual commemoration that cel ebrates several cultural celebrations or better known as festivals around the Philippines. It is dubbed as the melting bowl of the different festivals, and given that the Philippines have over 7, 600 islands there is much to see and enjoy. It is known as the “Philippines’ Grandest Fiesta” which is usually held within the Star complex located in Pasig City organized by the Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC) in partnership with the Cultural Centre of the Philippines (CCP) and broad casted nationwide by DZRH news television. The main goal is to showcase different Filipino Cultures and promote both in an economic and a tourism aspect the different regions and provinces of the country.

Aliwan is the Filipino term to describe entertainment, en joyment, and amusement. During the celebration of the Ali wan Fiesta, it is well known for its three major events namely the Cultural Street Dance competition, Float parade and the Search for the “Reyna ng Aliwan” or queen of entertainment. However, with the onset of the Covid 19 Virus or Corona, all activities went to a halt together with the many festivals around the country.

Thus, distinct from the title of Reyna ng Aliwan, Aliwan Festival Digital Queen came into existence. The candidates compete for the desired crown through cyberspace. Its goal according to the AFDG official page is to “keep the hopes and dreams of beauteous and talented Filipinas alive, catapulting them into the spotlight, and enabling them to further inspire and influence today’s youth by harnessing the power of digital media to serve as exemplary models in the community.”

Now in their third installment, a Bacolodnon queen has entered the top 12 finalists among the many contestants that are vying for the crown. She carries the flag of JBLCF-B together with her with pride as she braces herself for the competition.

photo courtesy of Jeaven Iyl Musni

Roller coaster Journey

Standing at 5’6’’ tall, Jevean Iyl Musni stomps the runway as she enters the grand finals of the Aliwan Festival Digital Queen. However, she is no ordinary queen. Hailing from the city of smiles and the sugarbowl of the country, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental.

“The journey towards this moment was like a roller coast er ride it was so unexpected”

Jeaven shared that this was not her first time attending this specific pageant. However, in her past attempts, she failed to enter the final 12. Just like her first try, it seemed like her path was the same in this year’s search. But an unex pected call changed the tides for our Lacsonian pageant queen. She shared that after the release of the final 12 for this year and the moment she saw that she was not part of it, she was devastated. "I was so heartbroken that I [couldn't] stop the tears, even how hard I held them back," she said. But with a sudden twist of events, Raven Doctor of Puerto Princesa Palawan withdrew from the competition due to un specified health issues. Together with her withdrawal came an open spot for a wildcard entry, and then came the call.

“It was an unexpected call, I just got over the fact that it was not in the original final 12. Then while I was out with some friends, I got the most unexpected call from the orga nizers and I was moved to tears. The first person I called was my mother who was shocked in a good way by the sudden news. At the same time, a trusted group of friends was with me to share that joyous moment and I was on cloud 9”

She was ecstatic with the news but with this also came doubts, she shared that it was a very hectic week. With a long list of laboratories, schoolwork, and with exams just around the corner, she felt scared knowing that she needs to double up the pace in order to catch up with the other queens that are many feet ahead of her in the competition.

Contrary to this, it is her life-long dream to represent the city of smiles and all its beauty in such a prestigious pag eant. With this and her will and determination she entered the competition as its wildcard queen.

"Bacolod City has been actively participating in various beauty pageants all over the country. Our passion for such events has become a source of pride in our hometown. It is such an honor for me to represent the City and the entir Province of Negros Occidental in AFDQ. " – Jeaven.

Pageantry, Education, Life

Considering that she is still in college, she shared her secret to balancing all facets of her hectic life. “Effectively balancing my studies with pageantry and other important activities of my life really requires efficient management of time” she emphasized.

Aside from being a student and a pageant queen, Jeaven is also a very active member of her local parish when part nered altogether, you might think that it may be very tiring. She also imparted techniques on how she keeps herself in a correct state of mind and continually showcases why Bacolod is indeed the city of smiles—set goals, prioritize the things that need adequate attention, and most especially care for your mental well-being.

Every time she feels like quitting, Jeaven always carries with her a quote by a Persian poet Rumi, “Let the beauty of what you love be what you do.” As she believes that any person’s education cannot be impaired by one’s dreams and that only by learning to set your priorities straight is the only way that you will be at ease in facing all aspects of your life.

Her education and pageantry even meet in collaboration, as her advocacy revolves around food waste mitigation that seeks to tackle food waste issues as well as food shortages and how to help small business owners.

Support, Dreams, and the Future

Throughout her journey as a student and a pageant queen, Jevean did not stand alone.

“My pageantry journey has been easygoing because of my support system and this is one of the many things that I am most grateful for. Through the years, I’ve always felt the love and enthusiasm of my family, friends, classmates, and teachers every time I join pageants, and that for sure is what keeps me going”

Together with her friends that scream her name to share their support, there is also someone who she considers as her number one fan - Jeaven Icy who in fact is her younger sister. This is what fuels her determination to continue doing what she is doing. Whether they win or lose in any compe tition, they will always be there for her every step of the way.

With the pandemic dying down and life gradually returning to normal, we asked the inevitable question, that is, if we will be seeing her in even bigger pageants, knowing that AFDGQ and Reyna ng Aliwan have been known as breeding grounds for veteran Filipina pageant queens which then proceed to join other nation al pageants like Bb. Pilipinas, Miss Universe, Miss Globe, and many more pageants. She humbly replied, “I will see where my fate will lead me, but right now I have set my priorities on finishing my studies,” but she jokingly added that we never know what will come in the future.

“I will serve as proof that we can make things happen as long as we work hard for it and focus on our priorities in life.”

words by Mdpn. Jerric Claridad & Mdpn. Marc Cortez

graphics by Beanne Jaca

Asanctuary for people longing for Fitness and recre ation, the resurgence of gyms and arenas amidst the trying times brought by the past two years of Covid-19 restrictions. Gone are the days when peo ple lived life with no limitations, and everything was normal; we enjoyed whatever act of leisure we wanted to do.

On days when people were in cliques, gatherings were a form of strengthening the bonds of everyone doing things that can physically help us be healthy while being enter tained in doing so.

Yet as we are now continuing to rise above the tremen dous downfall that has threatened the existence of human ity, we are tasked by medical experts and professionals to strengthen our immunity and enhance our health, to be equipped to combat the spread of this pandemic, the most

The necessities of gym in the new normal

Considering that we are still within arm’s length of the dangers and risks brought by the pandemic, we must con sider the health and well-being of every individual. Engaging in physical activities such as workouts routines and repeti tions are vital things to consider doing so;

In an interview conducted by Anlene, which is a milk brand that focuses on the strengthening of individual bones, Dr. Julie Li Yu, President of the Osteoporosis Society of the Philippines Foundation, Incorporated (OSPFI), men tioned that the regular movement of our bones, muscles, and joints is vital to health in the long run.

“We must focus on the muscles, the bones, and the joints to lessen the burden of the disease or to lessen the burden of musculoskeletal disorders. We’re not just looking at prevention in adults, but prevention as early as childhood,” said Li Yu.

Impacts of fitness centers on students

Sun Life Financial Philippines president Riza Mantaring, a former long-distance runner who competed in several international marathons, touched on the issue and provided her insights. “Health and wellness go together, and we’re going to push for both advocacy,” she said when asked to identify the barriers to living a healthier life; a survey conducted by 57% of Filipinos blamed it on their lack of time due to work while 47% admitted that it’s due to “lack of personal motivation.”Some of the 47 percent also identified “distractions of modern life.” These people spend much time glued to their gadgets and engaging in social media rather than physical activities.

These things are accurate but do not benefit students’ mental health. The pandemic has negative ly influenced their mental health regarding stress, depression, anxiety, and the event itself.

According to a study by the Southeast Asian One Health University Network and the Philip pine One Health University Network, students in the National Capital Region reported sig nificant stress levels, with 19% reporting anxiety and 22% reporting depressive symptoms.

About 26% said they had diffi culty adjusting to the pandemic’s effects. Dr. Banaag claimed that while it did not significantly differ compared to students from oth er regions, it dropped to about 50% compared to non-stu dents, indicating that students are the most stressed group.

Engaging in physical activity and movement of the body is bene ficial for students’ physical and mental health. It also serves as a way for us to re lieve stress and appreciate our life.

Gyms and fitness centers in our locale

As the country is now slowly returning to the movement of things that we are accustomed to in the past, local Gyms and fitness centers have now produced their services, par ticularly in the Province of Negros Occidental; fitness enthu siasts can now indulge in the activities they desire to do.

Although there will be no restrictions on the number of people these locations can hold due to the decline in Covid-19 cases, we must still comply with the minimum health and safety guidelines established by the Inter-Agency Taskforce to manage the virus’ spread. Although wearing face masks and other personal protective equipment is no longer necessary, people still adhere to the same practices.

With the uncertainty of things that are likely to happen, we should always consider what benefits our health and well-being. Who knows what will happen soon if there is an end to this plague that has altered the course of humanity?

We are now moving into a brighter horizon. However, the possibility of everything that may come crashing down our shoulders is still a risk that we should not take lightly. Grad ually we are progressing and picking up where we left off. The world is slowly crawling back to achieving normalcy. We must do whatever it takes to preserve our lives, so let us aim to achieve optimum physical and mental health to create a better world without fear.

DIRI SA AMON

Sunset with a view of Guimaras Island

Cdt. Joshua Malpitaan

Cdt. Joshua Malpitaan

The breathtaking sunset along the Guimaras Strait will take your breath away just 32 kilometers south of the City of Smiles. One of the things the Municipality of Valladolid will always be proud of is its kilometer stretch of sunset boulevard along the national highway.. A peaceful place to connect with nature as the water laps along the seawall.

DEVCOM

words by Mdpn. Sean Ladrido

Epimoni: A testament to Filipino Kindness and Tenacity

photo courtesy of Angat Buhay Foundation

In this modern society, where some would rather stay in the comforts of home, some commit themselves to serve the needs of others. In the metropolitan area of Quezon City, Metro Manila is where the Angat Buhay Foundation resides. Founded and launched in October of 2016 by former Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Gerona Robredo, the Angat Buhay Foundation was once part of the Office of the Vice President. However, after the term of former Vice President Leni Robredo, the Angat Buhay Foundation officially became an NGO (Non-Governmental Organization).

The Angat Buhay Foundation is an organization created to fight against poverty. The program aims to bring together the public and the private sectors—organizations and individuals alike, to address the needs of families in the farthest and poorest communities in the country. Despite various obstacles, the Angat Buhay Foundation broadened its scope of aid in several fields, such as public educa tion, rural development, food security and nutrition, women empow erment, universal healthcare, and housing and resettlement.

Even with a restricted budget while with the OVP, the foundation could assist several towns when the Coronavirus pandemic began in early 2020; it was quick in its response to the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, it has delivered 82.14 million pesos worth of health projects in 124 places, including mental health facilities equipped with X-ray machines and medicinal aid, with the help of private partners in San Remigio, Cebu.

Despite COVID-19, the foundation also raised 39.49 million pesos to combat hunger among the residents of Lambunao, Iloilo, with the feeding program benefiting 800 children. More than 120 Filipino youth were also given scholarships and skill training. One hundred thir ty-eight female entrepreneurs across the country were approached for employment opportunities, including initial cash and professional coaching.

In collaboration with 33 certified civil society organizations, a whopping P15.39 million in help was offered to 156 fishermen, farmers, seamstresses, small businessmen, and riders.

Angat Buhay’s housing program benefited Robredo’s home region of Bicol and Marawi City. The BAHAYanihan initiative in Bicol allocated P15.4 million in construction materials to individuals in high-risk areas. Concurrently, private-sector donations enabled the construction of 72 transitory shelters for residents displaced by the Marawi siege.

Although no longer with the OVP, the Angat Buhay Foundation remains committed to its objective of assisting those in need through out the Philippines. Most recently, when typhoon “Paeng” struck and places from Luzon to Visayas were harmed in the process, the founda tion was quick with its response providing the necessities for the victims of the typhoon.

The Angat Buhay Foundation is a culmination of people from the pink movement, guided by the mission of the former vice president, who share the same ideals. When elected officials fail to meet the standards and needs of the citizens they swore to protect. That is where the Angat Buhay foundation steps in, ready to give aid where the government cannot.

Unseen to the majority of Filipinos are the kindness, sacrifice, and dili gence of the Angat Buhay Foundation, spending most of its time serving and providing for the needs of the Filipino people. However, the magni tude of aid that the foundation provided is a testament to the good we can give through the use of kindness.

The dedication and kindness of the foundation go beyond the geographical barriers found in the Philippines. Individuals are willing to volunteer in the search for true unity through the use of kindness and companionship.

COVER STORY

HIV: Unpacking Society's Stigma Bagani, Warriors for Change

words by Mdpn. Jeremy Josh Alojado and D/Cdt. Joshua Malapitan photos by Mdpn. Bab Christian Sanchez

Ay hindi ka na magpalapit sa iya kay damak na sa

Hala! may HIV ka? Agi ka gali?

These are just some of the horrifying notions behind why there are people who are afraid to tell their stories to the world. Even though we have made great strides in recent years, there is still a lot of stigma associated with sexual activity in general and HIV in particular. This is due to the fact that there is still a lot of false information out there and that many people are reluc tant to discuss these issues in public.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a kind of virus that attacks one’s immune system, destroying important cells that help fight diseases and infection. This makes a person susceptible to other infection and illnesses which in a worse case, could lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syn drome (AIDS). Transmission entails unprotected intercourse, sharing of syringe or other drug injection equipment, or a pregnant woman living with HIV.

The Philippines was seen on one of its lowest points due to the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic last March 2020. These trying times helped a small group of selfless LGBTQIA+ volunteers from Negros Occidental to come up to an idea of establishing an organization called “Bagani by LoveYourself,” a community center located in Bacolod. Ba gani is a part of the Champion Community Center initiative by LoveYourself, Inc. which provides counseling and testing services for people who may have a risk on contracting HIV.

HOW IT ALL STARTED

The Current hub manager of Bagani Community Center, Mr. Butch Lavaro, originally served as a volunteer, work ing with people who are HIV-positive, in an organization in the US for more than 20 years. He realized that Bacolod does not have a group that deals with those issues when he returned to the Philippines, so he tried volunteering at LoveYourself in Cebu City. When the founder of LoveYourself asked him what would make him happy, he confidently re plied, “I’d [be] the happiest if we could replicate LoveYourself in Bacolod,” and that is when he first started to envision this movement.

During the first months after establishing, the group con sists only of one legal counsel offiicer, one nurse and three volunteers including Butch. They had a hard time figuring out everything for the organization to survive that time. He came to a point that he had to advertise his services to on line dating apps for homosexuals just to encourage people to get tested and the turn out was really high. With so much compassion to his fellow members of the community who might jeopardize their health, they never stopped.

The name Bagani is a Hiligaynon term that refers to pre-colonial warriors or heroes in the Philippines, who were believed to be strong and mighty during their time. The term was then coined in the formation of the organization as they would like to represent warriors of change. Warriors who instigate the ripple of change needed in the removal of the negative stigma surrounding sexuality, HIV, and intercourse itself.

STIGMATIZED SEXUALITY AND STATUS

In the past decade, wherein many lives were lost in the hands of HIV, most of which being gay men or people who have intercourse with the same gender. One would expect to have society to have a better vantage point on how they tackle the topic of sex and how to commit it safely. Sadly, we still live in a society wherein the mere mention of something relatable to sex a thunderous storm of laughter, embarrass ment, or dead loud silence will be experienced.

“This is because they don’t know how to handle it or react

to it in a proper manner, so they make it look funny to avoid the sense of awkwardness” tito Butch shared. This is once again to due to being in a country whose norms and values have been placed abound by its rich culture and the lack of further education. Thus, making it the perfect breeding ground for stigmatized ideologies.

There are two forms of stigma revolving around the topic of HIV as shared by Mr. Lavaro. The first one is known as the Community Based stigma, it’s how people outside the HIV community without knowledge nor awareness would immediately reach an assumption that “Ay may HIV ka damak simo” just because the main mode of transmission is through sex. Then again who would have wanted to be infected by such disease? And move on to live the rest of their life bounded by the looks of disgust and occasional murmurs of slurs.

The second one takes form within the community known as self-imposed stigma. Brought upon by what they have heard from society, partnered with the fear that they would be judged as well the moment their status is revealed. Sir. Butch expounded on how it’s somewhat similar to the con cept of internalized homophobia. The stigma itself surround ing this topic makes it harder for people to be aware and educated.

A VISION TO DESTIGMATIZE THE NORM

In a society where community-based and self-imposed stigmas continue to cast fear on some of the people, Bagani took a leap in order to fight misinformation, disinformation and malinformation.

According to Mr. Lavato, one of the most significant disparities between Western and Filipino cultures when it comes to HIV testing is acceptance. When he was still vol unteering in the US, he observed that people in the US were more open to the idea of getting screened compared to those in the Philippines. A part of him is crying himself out at laughing and broken at the same time everytime he heard sentiments that people do not to get tested because they are afraid that they might be tagged as homosexuals.

“Just because you get tested doesn’t mean agi ka na dayun. It just means that you really take good care of

yourself. It’s like going to see a doctor diba. You go see a doctor, are you automatically being judged nga ay hala may masakit ka? Wala… nagkadto ka because you’re taking good care of yourself so you come to Bagani to take care of you sexual being (It’s like going to see a doctor… When you see a doctor, are you automatically being judged as a sick person? No, you go there because you are taking good care of yourself so you come to Bagani to take care of you sexual being),” he added.

This humanitarian cause of giving the general public con stant awareness campaigns and HIV related services has helped a lot of Negrenses get through their fears of being judged, discriminated and mistreated.

HIV STATISTICS IN THE PHILIPPINES

Anchored on the data of the Department of Health HIV/ AIDS & Art Registry of the Philippines (HARP), 1,054 con firmed cases of HIV infection were reported in February 2022 and included in the overall number of cases reported (96,266) since January 1984. At the time of testing, 28% (297) of those reported in February had advanced HIV infection. These figures are viewed as concerning because a signifi cant portion of sexually active individuals still refuse to be tested.

In the entire Negros Occidental on the other hand as of July, has approximately 2000 people living with HIV but most of them are taking medications. These medications will help make the virus go asleep in about six months. But these medications could have minor side effects like having vivid dreams. With this, there is no possibility of transmission once a person is known to be undetectable. However, the problem are those people who refuse to get tested and continue to practice unsafe sex.

These numbers are the sole reason why Bagani contin ues to strive and help as many people as they can to help address the issue.

“There is nothing wrong with getting tested, it’s for your own safety as well as your partner’s. How will you ever know your status if you don’t get tested?

The essence of getting tested for diseases such as HIV is to find out your status. Just as such any information that you may retrieve when undergoing such tests is your priva cy. Sharing of your status to the public is at your personal discretion. You may share it you may not, it’s all up to you and you alone.

Similar to the concept of “Outing” or the manner of sharing one’s gender without consent, or with the goal of discrimination. It is deemed unforgivable or a form of moral crime to spread a status that is not your own. Due to the presence of social norms and the ongoing negative stigma regarding such illness would cause the person to be sub jected to discrimination and other factors that are deemed unhealthy for the mentality of the one affected.

Tito Butch shared how it may come unprecedented but the Government of the country has paved way for law that protects your status and discrimination from the spread of the info of your status without consent. In relation to this, several laws and regulatory proclamations have been made over the years to serve as the shield for whom are inflict ed with such illness and all falls down to Republic act 11166 signed by former president Presidente Rodrigo “Rudy” Roa Duterte back in the year 2018.

YOUR STATUS, YOUR PRIVACY, YOU ARE PROTECTED WORKPLACE DISCRIMINATION

There is no place to hide - workplace discrimination continues to be one of the major issues when tackling about HIV. Despite having a strong legislation in place in the Philip pines for people living with HIV/AIDS, there is little proof that the government is effectively enforcing the law designed to prevent and punish workplace discrimination.

Those living with HIV seem to be particularly hesitant to make complaints. Leah Barbia of the commission’s Gender Equality and Women’s Human Rights Center confirmed that the Commission on Human Rights addressed one case in 2017 but was unsure about earlier cases. The issue, accord ing to Barbia, is that HIV-positive people who experienced discrimination often don’t know who to turn to in order to

MOVING FORWARD WITH RIPPLES OF CHANGE

In the entirety of the Negros island. Bagani is the only NGO that provides pre-exposure prophylaxis (PREP) and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and the only Non -Govern ment organization that provides treatment care for people afflicted with HIV. PREP and PEP both being part of the al phabet of HIV the being ABCPP stands for Abstinence, Being faithful and Condoms or the practice of safe sex.

PEP and PREP are both medications used to treat HIV, PREP is taken before having intercourse as a secondary defense following the usage of condoms and PEP is taken only when you have been confirmed for HIV. Both of these are not available for purchase in Drug stores or rarely found within common places to get medications. On the contrary, Bagani provides these medications for free and as well as counseling to help in one’s HIV journey.

Many projects by the organization have transpired over the years. An example of this is the free HIV testing conducted all throughout the island, especially in time with major events such as festivals or big parties. But one can always visit their office to get tested. With the continuous garnering of attention, Bagani is proud to say that despite being brought up at the start of the pandemic. They are thriving and still functioning and now they plan to expand there reach even further throughout the island as they plan to branch out at least 1 office in the southern and north ern regions of Negros. They also continue to give talks in schools and in other organizations toward their major goal of destigmatizing the norm and educating the younger gen eration that it is not a laughing matter but rather something that we should take into importance, not only for ourselves but as well as for our partner and for our families.

Because maybe someday we may be able to live in a country where one would no longer fear to say that he/she/ they have HIV. And it all starts with a flutter of a butterfly in a steady stream that would create the ripple of change toward a better and more accepting society.

seek remedy.

The same goes with the employee of a restaurant who contacted Butch and asked if is it legal for a company to mandatorily provide a negative HIV result. And with his voiced raised, he said “why? Ano man ya ang labot sang pag serbe sang pagkaon sa imo HIV? If you are in a medical profession, I would understand why but ma serbe ka ya pag kaon (why? What’s the connection of you serving food to your HIV? I would understand if you are working in a medi cal profession but you are serving food. I don’t get the idea why would they require you to have a negative HIV result).”

After receiving the horrible news, he got the number of the company and sent the HR officer a lengthy message demanding them to get rid of that requirement or else their company will be reported to DOLE.

SOCIETY

Ganito Kami Noon, Ito Kayo Ngayon

isinulat ni Jeremy Josh

Alojado guhit ni Antonio Ricardo Nobleza

setyembre 23 taong 1972, bandang alas syete ng gabi. Isang araw at oras ng magmamarka sa isa sa mga pinaka maka saysayang pangyayari sa bansa. “My countrymen, as of the twenty-first of this month, I signed Proclamation 1081 placing the entire Philippines under Martial Law,” wika ng yumaong Presidenteng Ferdi nand E. Marcos Sr.

Tinaguriang isa sa mga pinaka madilim na bahagi ng ating kasay sayan. Na kung saan tinatayang 3,720 ang namatay sa kamay ng mga militar at pulis. 34,000 ang kinastigo sa pamamaraan ng pang aabuso. 70,000 ang nakulong, kasama dito ang iba’t ibang mga tao mula sa samot saring antas ng buhay. Sa loob ng siyam na taon, hindi mabilang ang mga paglabag sa batas internasyonal at pagsuway sa karapatang pantao ang ginawa nung dating presidente.

“Pagpasok ko palang, nasalang agad ako sa tinatawag na anti-riot squad” wika ni Pedro, dahil daw ito umano sa walang tigil na pag rarally nang mga estudyante at iba’t ibang mga sibilyan.Nasa tabi ko lang ta laga! buti na lang at nakadikit ako sa may bandang poste at hindi ako nadamay sa mga namatay”.

Kwento ni Pedro ang mga di niya makakalimutang mga pangyayari noong siya ay pumasok bilang isang militar. Pero ika niya, maganda sana ang pamahalaan noon ng dating Presidente na si Marcos Sr. “Ang daming mga magagandang infrastructura ang naitukod sa ilalim ng kanyang regime, napakamura ng mga bilihin, at kilala tayo bilang isa sa mga pinakamalakas na mga bansa sa asya at binansagan tayo bilang ‘White tiger of Asia’.” Subalit, marami ang hindi naging sang ayon sa mga adhikain ni Marcos Sr. at siy ang naging ugat ng kay dami dami

Limang dekada na ang nakalipas at ngayon, isa na namang Marcos ang pangulo ng ating Inang Bayan pagkatapos manalo ni Presidente Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. sa 2022 presidential elections, na mayroong tinatayang 31 milyong boto. Gamit ang kanyang plataporma ng pagkakaisa kasama ang anak ng dating Presidente Rodrigo “Rody” Roa Duterte na si Sara Vicenta Zimmerman Duterte-Carpio ang kasa lukuyang nakaupong Bise Presidente na kung saan noong kampanya ay naging trending dahil sa mga nangyayaring “history revisionism” o ang pag mamanipula ng mga impormasyon tungkol sa mga nangyari noong panahon ng Martial Law.

Buhay

Sa kanyang kahilingan itago nalang natin siya sa pangalang Pedro, isang Pitong put tatlong taong gulang lalaki na ipinanganak at lumaki sa isang probinsya sa Luzon. Sumanib siya Hukbong Sandatahan ng Pilipinas o kilala bilang Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) sa Ingles taong 1970.

ng gulo’t mga karahasan na nangyayari sa bansa.

“Di namin alam na magkakaroon Martial Law, pero matagal na ka ming parating natutulog sa barracks at hindi na umuuwi sa aming mga bahay. Dahil kami ay parati nang pinapalaerto nang mga nasa itaas.”

Kasagsagan ng Batas Militar

Sa mga unang oras matapos ang pagdeklara, lahat sila ay inatasan na kumuha ng armas. Kung dati araw-araw nilang sinasauli ang mga ito sa armory, noong gabing iyon nagbago ang kanilang pamamal akad. “Tila parang paghahanda kami na sumabak sa isang malaking digmaan. Pero sa isip ko, kalmado lang ako at wala naman kaming masamang binabalak” kalmadong kinuwento ni Pedro.

Sa mga sandaling iyon, agad na ipinatupad ang curfew pagkata pos ma armasan lahat ng mga sundalo. Dahil dito, nakaramdam ng matinding takot ang mga sibilyan. “Hindi ko ipinagmamalaki na lubos ang takot ng mga tao pag nakita kaming mga sundalo” ibinahagi ni

Ang pamamalakad ng mag-amang Marcos sa mata ng dating sundalo ng Pilipinas.

Bago ng Deklarasyon

pedro na may kalungkutan sa kanyang tinig. Paliwanag ni Pedro, “wala naman kasi siyang masamang binabalak o gustong gawin - sadyang sinusunod niya lang talaga ang mag mandatos nga mga nakatakas sa kanya.”

Hindi lahat sasangayon sa mga kwento ni Pedro lalo na kapag sabi hin niyang mapayapa ang bansa sa ilalim ng Martial Law. Sapagkat ‘di rin natin maiwawaglit ang mga nasabing mga istorya at mga ebiden sya na ibinahagi ng mga biktima ng mga pang aabuso at pag maltrato noong mga panahong iyon.

“Buong Metro Manila ang aming iniikot at hindi ko pwedeng sabihin na wala akong mga natunghayan na mga pang aabuso na isinagawa ng mga kapwa kong sundalo.”

Masalimuot man, pero totoo na mayroong mga pang aabusong naganap pero hindi katulad sa mga inihayag ng ibang grupo at mga kwentong nakikita sa mga aklat. Sadyang hanggang pagpasok lang bigla sa mga kainan at hindi pagbabayad ang mga nakita niya. Sa mga panahong ito maraming mga pangkabuhayan ang labis na naapek tuhan, dulot nito ng ipinatupad na curfew, takot ng tao na lumabas, at dahil dito ay sadyang lugmok ng ekonomiya dati ng Pilipinas. Pero sa kabilang banda,sadyang tahimik daw nang mga panahong iyon. Dag dag pa niya lubos na nabawasan ang bilang ng krimen na nangyayari sa paligid kasama na dito ang mga pag aalsa na isa sa mga pinaka malaking problema noon.

“Sa simula noong papataupad ng Batas Militar, ang ganda ng dulot sa Pilipinas hanggang sa nawala ang katahimikan binigay nito nang

damdaming resolusyon ng mga Pilipino upang makamit ang totoong kapayapaan at kalayaan, sa ilalim ng isang demokratikong pama maraan at pamamahala na ating inaalala sa pamamagitan nang dilaw na laso.

2022, ang makabagong panahon. 36 na taon pagkatapos ng admin istrasyong Marcos Sr., si Pedro ay isang na lamang ordinaryong sibilyan pagkatapos nitong ginusto nang magpahinga at manatili kasama nang kanyang pamilya.

“ Dati pa lang, kilala ko na yang si Bongbong Marcos. Bata pa lang kita ko na siya ay matatawag na isang spoiled brat. Dagdag pa dito ang pagiging party goer at outdoor explorer nito na may kasamang sandamakmak na mga sundalo at mga nars pati na yaya na sunod ng sunod sa kanya.”

Ika nga pinatunayan ni Pedro sa kanyang mga kwento ang mga is toryang mainit na pinag uusapan noong panahon ng eleksyon. Oktubre ng parehong taon ang nagmarka sa unang 100 araw ni Bongbong Mar cos bilang bagong Pangulo ng bansa na kung saan siya din ang kauna unahang hindi nagbigay o nag present anang kanyang mga nakamit sa kanyang unang isang daang araw bilang pangulo.

Ngunit sa loob ng mga araw na ito ay bumagsak ang presyo ng piso kontra dolyar na umabot sa 59 ang halaga nito kontra sa dolyar noong Setyembre.. Subalit sa paningin ng karamihan na mga ekonomista di pa nagtatapos ito maaari pang umabot ng hanggang 60 pesos kapag

nagkaroon panibagong gulo sa pamamagitan ng kudeta.” – Pedro

Taong 1985 nung pinadala si Pedro papuntang Estados Unidos upa ng magkaroon ng karagdagang kaalaman sa mga iba pang aspekto ng pagiging sundalo. Sa ganun maisasabing wala siya dito, upang saksihan ang mga nangyari noong EDSA Revolution.

Milyun-milyong mga tao ang dumalo sa Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA) sa taong 1986 ng Pebrero na ang mensaheng hawak ay kagustuhang bumaba na sa kanyang kinauupuang pwesto ng dating Presidenteng Marcos Sr. Mula sa iba’t ibang antas ng buhay ay may presensya noong panahong iyon at ang sigaw ay tapusin na ang pag ka dictador nito. Subalit, di lamang sa kahabaan ng EDSA naganap ang nasabing rebolusyon. Sabay sabay itong ginagawa sa iba’t ibang mga siyudad at probinsya sa buong Pilipinas. Sa pamamaraan ng tahimik at matiwasay na pag-aalsa kontra sa dating pangulo.

Ibinida din dito sa buong mundo ang makabago at makabagbag

hindi ito binigyang pansin ng gobyerno. Akyat-baba din ang presyo ng krudo na siya ring dahilan sa pagiging mahal masyado ng mga bilihin sa merkado, na inaangalan ng karamihan na Pilipino.

Sa kanyang sariling pananaw walang potensyal na maging magan dang pangulo si BBM. Dagdag pa niya, sa unang isang daang araw bilang bagong Pangulo, halos wala ding masyadong ginagamit ito. “ He will never be as good as his father, at tila puro lang pagkakaisa ang alam pero di naman naisasagawa”

Di lubos akalain ng mga tao kasama na doon si Pedro na aabot tayo sa ganito. Suablit wala tayong magagawa kundi humiling na sana magising na ang ating pangulo at kumilos patungo sa mga pangakong pagbabago at pagkakaisa. Matapos ang lahat ng isyu at sakuna dulot ng kay daming mga bagay. Sapagkat ganoon daw sila dati ito na tayo ngayon. Ang natitirang tanong kung paano ka lalaban sa bugso ng buhay.

Ang Dilawang Laso

Ang Makabagong Henerasyon

SOCIETY

BUILDERS OF HOPE

A non-profit and non-governmental humanitarian organization which provides assistance to remote areas in Negros.

words by D/Cdt. Joshua Malapitan & Mdpn. Bab Christian Sanchez

It is easy to take hope for granted when you have been given equal opportunity in life. It is something that every one deserves, but not everyone has access to. When you have been given the opportunity to pursue your dreams and goals, it is easy to forget that there are people who are not given the same chance.

Despite having so much on our plate, trying to recover from the devastations that were caused by the pandemic, there are people who are born to give hope and to serve humanity.

Hope Builders Organization Negros Island Inc. (HBONI) created a safe place for those who are not given a fair shake. Established last 2018, HBONI took a step forward to give a hand to communities living in the marginalized sector. It started with 16 benevolent volunteers. These people com ing from different parts of Negros gathered for one purpose - to help give light and retrace the path of those who may have lost it.

Passion for Humanity

Walking in the scorching heat of the sun while sweat drips off their faces are nothing to these selfless volunteers just to acquaint themselves and give wisdom to those innocent faces of the children in the community. This act serves not just an inspiration to many but also to show that there is still goodness in people.

Kenneth Bacala, chairperson and one of the volunteers of HBONI took pride in how the organization has transpired and changed a number of beautiful lives through the years. He has seen how the organization was able to endure every thing despite the adversities they go through each day just to lend a hand.

Materializing Visions

The hurdles made the volunteers more eager in creating initiatives benefiting the less fortunate in remote areas. It’s the support from people that helped the HBONI materialize their visions for our society. One of its pioneer projects was “May pag-asa sa Pagbasa” a month-long reading program for children which took place in Himamaylan City from 20182020.

This reading program helped those children in the com munity by giving them free learning sessions, storytellings, and lessons to improve reading as well as their values. It only started with 35 children until such time in 2020, they were able to cater a total of 88 children. Following this suc cess, the formerly known as Hope Builders Organization was able to foster its number of applicants for those who aspired to volunteer. According to Mr. Bacala, they already have more or less 600 members from Negros Occidental making them known as HBONI today.

“Basically, Hope Builders Organization aims to build hope

to the youth in the community in Negros Occidental because wayback in 2018, I was just dreaming to have an active youth organization in negros occidental,” Kenneth Bacala, one of the volunteers and the founding members of HBONI. Their vision doesn’t end there. They also substantiated another project which focuses more on the parents, provid ing free assistance and training to be able to give proper guidance and parenting to their children especially in these trying times.

“…because of the pandemic, wala na guide ang mga bata sa ila balay, then gin target namon si parents para i train si parents on how to teach values to their children at home (… because of the pandemic, children were not given enough guidance so we mobilise a project which target the parents - training them on how to teach values to their children at home)” he added.

The life we are currently living is not what it used to be pre-pandemic. We have been isolated in the four corners of our houses and this has taught us the value of cherishing the time with our families. But what everyone should ponder is that we don’t have the same experiences. There will always be greater and lesser in life and that is something that we should not take for granted nor use it to take advantage of other people’s misfortunes. To help address these issues, HBONI was able to reach a total of 20 communities which were given proper reinforcement on how to handle circum stances within their families.

Rebuilding Hope Amidst Uncertainty

The story of Kenneth Bacala has proven that there is hope even in times of adversities. HBONI, dreams to reach

not only the Negros Island but, nationwide. Kenneth Bacala said that “ gina foresee ko na in the next ten years HBONI will have its own office kag not only diri sa negros but na tionwide na para mas madamo mabuligan na mga kabata an (We dream in the next ten years to have our own office and to be nationwide so that we can help more children in our country)” . For now, HBONI is a haven of hope, peace, and love. Where children can explore more about them selves at the same time nurture the gifts that they ought to discover.

HBONI is taking a leap of faith to pursue the dream of becoming one of the organisations that can change the world. Impact society because of one soul that has a burn

ing passion to make a change. Reclient because they are able to withstand the challenges and push towards fruition.

It’s easy to feel like our individual actions can’t make a difference in the grand scheme of things. But if we try to flip the coin, we will realize that we can change the world even with our simplest gestures. Whether smiling at a stranger, lending a helping hand, or simply doing something nice for someone, our actions can have a ripple effect that posi tively impacts not just the person you are trying to help but yourself as well. So let’s not underestimate the power of our actions - we can make a difference and change the world for the better.

A Calling to Serve the Lacsonian Community

words by Mdpn. Angelo Ryan Giltezndez & Mdpn. Jethro Rei Giltendez

calling to serve the Lacsonian community

One way of honoring the institution—John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation – Bacolod, Inc.—is by giving back to the institution that once molded you to become the person you currently are. For many, their way of showing gratitude is through monetary donations, embodying the Lacsonian core values, and giving the university credit for their successes. One act, however, has not been given enough praise because this path is usu ally undertaken by officers who are currently unable to con tinue serving the maritime industry as an officer onboard.

Answering the call

Captain Cassius Paul Sanchez, is both serving the mari time industry as a Master Mariner and a maritime instructor of John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation – Bacolod, Inc. As per his contract with his company, he serves six months as a captain onboard; and the other half of the year is reserved for teaching aspiring Filipino Lacsonian seafarers.

“My personality compels me to always take risks and face challenges in life. As such, I chose this to teach in JBLCF-B since it will help me exercise my brain and moti vate aspiring seafarers with their chosen profession. As an educator, I would continue to develop as a person because I would meet more people and students, allowing me to gain a deeper understanding of what is expected and necessary for this generation,” said Capt. Sanchez.

Oftentimes, the goal of being a seafarer is for financial purposes only. Given the fact that the maritime industry is a business itself, Capt. Sanchez opted to dedicate months of his career in molding future seafarers to be fully equipped with the knowledge and skills of a competent officer on board.

“Onboard the ship, I have instructed plenty of mariners, whether they were officers or ratings. They were seafarers from many regions, cultures, and origins. Because of this, I wondered, ‘If I can train and shape these individuals, why shouldn’t I do the same for aspiring Filipino seafarers?’ That is why I chose to return to my alma mater and teach so that I could assist them in becoming competent seafarers in the future.”

A

photo courtesy of Capt. Cassius Paul Sanchez

Educating the next generation is not a simple endeavor. To truly touch the hearts and influence the lives of every stu dent, one must be dedicated and passionate in their work. It is the responsibility of the instructors to ensure that every student who graduates from their institution is completely equipped psychologically, physically, and emotionally for a life at sea, given that our profession is a highly risky one.

“I can say that teaching is a hard profession. Why? Because it is your responsibility to prepare them for an extremely challenging, exhausting, and dangerous job on board. To accomplish this, you must have a strong desire to impart the knowledge, skills, and experiences you have gained over the course of your work so that others may be inspired and have a brighter future,” said Capt. Sanchez.

The turning point

Capt. Sanchez was once a student of this institution, dreaming of one day becoming a mariner like us today. He believes that the Lacsonian community has contributed a major impact towards his career and shaped him with ac cordance to the values and philosophy of our founder, Capt. John B. Lacson.

“John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation – Bacolod really played a huge part in my career. The institution molded me to become the kind of leader that I am today. Consider ing that the school is a semi-military school, the values of discipline and leadership really gave an imprint in my life as a seafarer.”

With his years of experience as a management-level seafarer, he has witnessed numerous lapses, shortcomings, and deficiencies with regards to the Filipino seafarers that are currently onboard.

“Back when I was a Third Officer, I personally witnessed the lack of knowledge and skills among Filipino seafarers. Not only that, but there have been a presence of toxic men tality and toxic culture for Filipino seafarers, wherein man agement-level officers are the ones who teach these young seafarers to do something inappropriate and undesirable, which, in my opinion, is highly unethical and unprofessional and should not be tolerated at all.”

Capt. Sanchez then became an advocate for change by becoming a maritime instructor in John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation – Bacolod in an effort to mold and motivate fu ture Filipino seafarers to be knowledgeable, respectful, and competent in the maritime industry.

“I became an instructor in this institution because I felt that by my meager actions and efforts, I will be able to instill in the students the idea that it is not only through being intelligent that is vital onboard the ship, but also about being able to learn to interact and respect with those people around them.”

A message to the prospective officers

Our alma mater is the haven of learning and training for a life at sea for Lacsonians. As we graduate and move on with our careers, everyone has their own paths to choose from and pursue it as they have every right to do so. How ever, let us be reminded that we should always learn to look back to those that sculpted us to becoming who we are and for developing our potentials in the maritime industry.

That is why Capt. Sanchez, a pure-bloodied Lacsonian himself, would always encourage students of John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation – Bacolod Inc. to give back to the com munity through the noble profession of teaching.

“I would always suggest to the students that when they become officers and have time, they should go back to their alma mater to share their knowledge, skills, and experiences and to also give them the realistic overview of what is our profession about so that they would not be blinded of what reality is and to inspire the aspiring seafarers.“

Diokophobia; The Philippine Red Tagging Scenario

words by Angelic Feril

Being suppressed into actively speaking to amplify the voices of the oppressed is like having sleep paralysis while awake. It’s like you want to move but are pinned down by something to hinder you. We get mocked for expressing our grievances as if it doesn’t work. However, In reality, they are scared for us to get heard. Hence, they want to shut us down.

John, a pseudonym, has advocated for various causes, such as climate and environmental justice, democracy, human rights, land rights, and rural development. John has been a social justice activist since he was 16 years old. He thinks he is biased toward climate and environmental justice because that is where he started as a social activist.

His epiphany came about when he joined the Youth Empow ering Youth initiative, the Negrosanon Young Environmentalists Summit. He has been exposed to the wonder and issues the Negros environmental situation presented. During the gather ing, he had a Ninoy Aquino moment; in awe of how clean the landscape is and how it sustains the people of Negros, he told himself, “This place is worth fighting for.”

The fact that he inspired several other people to hope, dream, and fight for the kind of world they want for themselves and others was his most outstanding achievement. Despite the trying times wherein red-tagging is rampant. When asked about how he sees the socio-political climate now as a young activist. He replied, “I think this is a very challenging time for activism, but more so, it makes our activism necessary. The red-tagging and the vilification of activists and defenders are dangerous because we have seen what red-tagging can do. I saw it in my close friend and many others. First, they were red-tagged, then targeted, then killed. With Anti-Terrorism Laws in place, it is diffi cult to continue the things we do. But despite that, we continue to persist because we need to.

Red-tagging is the practice of branding, naming, and ac cusing individuals or groups of being communists, subversives, left-leaning, or terrorists. When a property is “red tagged,” mu nicipal officials may place a substantial orange or red sign on its front. In the Philippines, red-tagging is the malicious blacklist ing of individuals or organizations that are critical of the current

government’s policies or do not fully support them. Entry to the property without prior written permission from code enforce ment is prohibited by this notice, which is typically visible from the street.

John was once red-tagged, but he preferred to not elab orate on his experience with us due to security concerns. However, he described the aftermath of red-tagging. “I felt the chilling effect. Because you know exactly what happens to people after they are red-tagged. Admittedly, there were days that I was afraid to go out. Then people would say that if you did not do anything wrong, there’s nothing you should worry about. However, that has not been the case in the Philippines. We knew many people who didn’t do anything wrong. Still, they would end up in prison, or worse, killed because of their political convictions.”

Activists voicing people’s grievances and fighting for what is right are often linked with the New People’s Army (NPA). Hence, they are being red-tagged and labeled as NPA. John believes, “This is done to isolate us, reduce the essence of our cause, discredit everything we do, and preserve the status quo. Their primary objective is to silence dissent and crush the opposition. Allowing fear to take control is allowing it to win.”

Not all activists are armed and up to violence like the NPA. Some activists like John want to be heard to fight injustices and address grievances. Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan empha sized, “While it may be partially true that joining the NPA results in the deaths of some student activists. This does not mean that all student activists join the NPA. Senator Risa Hontiveros and I were student activists and leaders during the Marcos administration. Today, we are both senators. Therefore, I believe that that broad and simplistic generalization partially presents half-truths.”

Amid the threats, John never faltered in delivering truth and fighting for truth. He reckoned there would be a lot of danger for activists and dissenters. Still, he is constantly reminded of why I started in the first place. He said, “Being silent because of fear of red-tagging allows it to continue and survive. The best way we can end it is by speaking against it.”

graphic art by Antonio Ricardo Nobleza

The Untold Anecdote of a Traditional

Jeepney Drivers

words by Mdpn. Carwin Pagunsan & Mdpn. John Leigh Defante

Have you ever felt tired from trying to learn every thing new that happens every day? Or choose to do one thing at a time? Or perhaps felt like moving ahead a little slower?

“Change is inevitable, growth is optional” – John C. Max well. We live in a time when things change all the time; this is by no means unusual. The stresses, exhaustion, breakdowns, burnouts, fear of losing out, and anxiety that comes with the “always changing” patterns are part of the journey. Every one talks about how much they want CHANGE, but no one talks about how to accept it and what comes with it.

As a result of the consistent increase in the cost of petroleum products at the pump, many jeepney drivers are forced to readjust their financial stability to accommodate the rise of petroleum products. Just like in the experience of Manong Rey, a traditional jeepney driver from Barangay Alijis, Bacolod City.

For instance, the immediate operation of modernized jeepneys in the second week of September. This has gained mixed reactions from the passengers to the traditional drivers.

Challenges they fronted

The unique design of the modern jeepney is completely equipped with an air-conditioning system, has a separate person to collect the fare, and is significantly more spacious for leg movement—effectively replacing the traditional jeepneys with the snap of a finger.

“Na surprise guid ko kay nag gulpi damo ang mga aircon nga jeep kag ang mga tao naga inagaway, naga pa unahay para lang maka sakay sa amo nga jeep (modernized jeep) samtang naga biyahe ko halin downtown pakadto Alijis (I was surprised that there were so many new, improved jeepneys and people cruising to them while on my way to the Alijis from downtown),” said Manong Rey, a traditional jeepney driver from Alijis to Downtown.

Manong Rey was taken aback by the fact that his car was being passed over in favor of the new, more innovative jeepneys.

“Sang ang aircon nga jeep nag sugod byahe-byahe, gaka feel ko nga gina agawan na kami sang pasahero sang mga jeep nga de-aircon sa paradahan. Daw wala na kami mayo gina sapak bisan ara na kami naka una sa parada han, ang mga taho ga dalagan guid dayun kung maabot

photos by Mdpn. Jerric Claridad

"Sang ang aircon nga jeep nag sugod byahe-byahe, gaka feel ko nga gina agawan na kami sang pasahero sang mga jeep nga de-aircon sa paradahan. Daw wala na kami mayo gina sapak bisan ara na kami naka una sa paradahan, ang mga taho ga dalagan guid dayun kung maabot na ang bag-o nga jeep"

na ang bag-o nga jeep (When the modernized jeepneys started to operate, it felt like we were being contested from getting our passengers on the ‘paradahan.’ It makes me feel overwhelmingly anxious because despite being the first jeepney to arrive at the stop, the passengers would still choose to wait and ride the modernized ones).”

“Diperensyado”, a hiligaynon term for difference. Since we people are always thrilled when it comes to the latest trends, there is a big difference when the modernized jeep started to operate in Bacolod City; it is because many com muters are eager to ride the newly improved jeepneys.

“Nagliligad lang gid sang kami pa lang ang naga byahe kis-a maka kwarta kami isa ka libo (₱1,000), pero sang nag sugod na sila (byahe) maka kita lang gid ko kinyentos (₱500) kag swerte kung maka syete syentos (₱700) (Back then, when we were only ones operating, our earnings would reach at above ₱1,000; whereas now, my earnings would be at an average of ₱500. If I get lucky, the most I would get is about ₱700),” said Manong Rey.

The challenges put them at a standstill whether or not they continue their career as a driver or to find a new job.

Abiding the actuality

Due to the persistent depreciation of the Philippine peso, the price of oil continues to rise, hence affecting the costs of essentials such as food, drinks, and even transportation. The increased cost of fare places additional stress and worry on families like Manong Rey’s.

“Sang nagligad ang promise ko sa bata ko nga ma cel ebrate siya sang birthday niya sa Jollibee kay gusto-gusto nya guid na halin sang una kag grabe nga pangalipay ang ara saiya, pero daw ka alang-alang na kay tungod sa sit wasyon nga may ara ta subong naga saka ang presyo sang gasolina kag ga mahal ang mga baligya (Some time ago, I promised my child that we would celebrate his birthday in

Jollibee because he wanted a birthday party in Jollibee long ago, and his face was full of joy when he heard that. Howev er, in this situation, I doubt I can keep his promise because of the rising gasoline and commodity prices).”

Many plans had to be canceled as a result of problems brought on by the current economic situation. Manong Rey is worried about the rising goods or commodities, rising prices of gasoline, and the worsening status of the overall market that can affect his son’s special day. So much guilt about his failure to fulfill his promise to his son.

“Pero sige lang ah wala naman ko may mahimo sa gaka tabo subong kundi mag padayon kay promise ko na sa bata ko, kag himuon ko guid ang tanan para mapa sadya sya sa iya kaadlawan (But it’s okay, there’s nothing I can do in my situation but persevere to keep the promise I made to my son. I’ll do my utmost to see the joy on his face on his special day).”

Indeed, a father’s sacrifice is genuine. Behind those tough gray hairs and wrinkles lies all the sacrifices he has made, Manong Rey happily sacrifices all his comfort for his child.

There are many advancements in today’s generation that we must adapt to, but can we all adapt to these new changes? All technological advancements contribute to the prosperity of human life, particularly in the field of transpor tation, which provides us with convenience while traveling. However, in exchange for the new changes, there is a con sequence. For instance, the implementation of modernized jeepneys causes the traditional jeepneys to be left behind.

But, in accordance with manong Rey’s words, we must simply go with the flow and continue whatever we have begun, despite the numerous obstacles and challenges we have encountered; if we have a dream, we can achieve it anyway. These were his encouraging comments that life must continue and nothing is impossible if we have ambi tions and aspirations; we only need to make sacrifices and invest some effort and time.

DISCUSSION

Sexual

Harassment Scar

Sexual assault knows no age, gender, and location. Beware.

words by Mdpn. Vince Dave Duquilla & Danielle Grapa

Different scenarios involving two distinct people who had a traumatic experience of being assaulted. Despite having opposite genders, commonality and severity match.

““Doctor caressed my back uncomfortably during my usual field work” Jane, not her real name.

“As we danced in the center of the room to enjoy the party, my cojones were deliberately grabbed.” Alias Kurt

Analyzing discrepancies amongst men and women in sexual harassment allegation filings can be done by looking at sexual ha rassment complaint data with occupational and gender breakdowns, as what jane and kurt experienced.

Anywhere can be an encounter

Sexual assault can occur in any context and is not restricted to any particular age, gender, or location. Jane, a medical represen tative, was the victim of job exploitation, which was initiated by her doctor. And Kurt is a student that was just enjoying the ambiance and music of the party not knowing a malicious intent would occur to him.

The continual flood of sexual harassment victims’ accounts serves as a stark reminder of how widespread it is everywhere. People from all walks of life have been affected, that includes both men and women.

Catcalling

“I don’t feel safe every time I walk alone on my own.” Caroline said, not her real name. Catcalling is a type of street harassment that fre quently includes unwelcome sexualized remarks, suggestive gestures, and car horns. Despite the fact that these acts are frequently ignored, trivialised, and normalised, they cause enormous grief to their victims, the vast majority of whom are women. Because of the harmful consequences this behavior has on its victims, it is worth researching, comprehending, and eliminating.

There is a distinction between approaching someone you don’t know properly and approaching them in a way that makes them feel unsafe and/or uncomfortable.

“Hey, sweetie, how about a smile?”

“Where are you going dressed like that?”

“How much is an hour of it likely to cost?”

“Name your own rate.”

“I know how to have fun.”

These are some phrases Caroline will never forget since they made her feel scared and uneasy when they were stated to her.

Catcalling is associated with self-objectification. Self-objectifica tion can cause anyone to feel ashamed and anxious about their looks.

“What do they stand to gain by doing so?” It neither makes them attractive nor desirable. What if the same situation happened to them and their loved ones?”, Caroline asked. According to the study of Walton, The most often reported reasons for catcalling were to flirt with and convey sexual interest in the target, and the most desired reply from recipients was friendliness. The same study found that most men that catcalled wanted a ‘friendly’ reaction from the person it was directed at, with 85% hoping the recipient would smile in response, 81% hoping they would flirt, and 78% hoping it would initiate a conversation. Not only did these men want their catcall to facilitate a positive interaction with the victim, but 73% hoped the recipient would be flattered by the catcall, and 62% hoped the recipient would admire their confidence.

There is no technique to cope with catcalling, harassment, or sexual violence against women. It is impossible to influence someone’s actions and behaviors, but there are some things you can do to adjust your own behavior and keep yourself safe if you hear catcalling.

Catcalling can be a frightening experience. When in doubt, just keep going as if you hadn’t heard anything and try to get somewhere secure. Remember that being the victim of catcalling is no one’s fault, regardless of the circumstances. After an encounter like this, be sure to unwind and spend time alone or with individuals who make you feel safe and loved.

Consent is decent

Sexual harassment will not be an exploitation if a consent was given. That everybody entangled should express their consent verbally, and honestly. A person who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, uncon scious or sleepy, or inebriated cannot consent. Not to mention, wearing anything revealing does not imply consent as they dress for themselves not for others.

graphic art by Emmy Nava

Mutual consent to engage in sexual behavior is known as sexual consent. You must ascertain a person’s desire for sexual activity before engaging in any sexual activity with them. Additionally, it’s critical to be open and forthright with your mate concerning your wants and needs.

The key components of consenting and requesting consent are setting personal boundaries, recognizing those of your partner, and checking in when necessary. Both parties must consent to sexual activi ty for it to be considered consensual. Intercourse, genital contact, and penetrations without consent are all considered sexual assault or rape.

The Fall Victims

Sexual harassment is classified as any unwanted sexual remarks, inquiries, or behaviors that are made a contract stipulation, used to obstruct performance, or are severe or widespread enough to foster a hostile environment.

The Asia Foundation reported that prior to the pandemic, one in every four Filipino women had experienced domestic violence, but after Covid-19 hit the country, the incidence skyrocketed. Rape occurred in 1,656 cases in 2018 and 2,168 cases in 2020, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority. During the Covid-19 lockdowns, the Philippine government recorded an average of eight sexual assault victims and sur vivors per day, as well as a threefold increase in tips about exploitation.

Jane and Kurt are just two of the many fatalities or victims of this extremely widespread, timely, and relevant act that necessitates effective oversight in order to be reform able. According to the national sexual violence resource center (NSVRC) states that Nationwide, 81% of women and 43% of men reported experiencing some form of sexual harassment and/or assault in their lifetime. Kurt and Jane’s meeting was not an accident; rather, it was a deliberate act that adversely affected other victims. As a result, anyone can be affected.

Sexual Harassment Upshot

Kurt conveyed his feelings about how he no longer wants to go out clubbing and celebrate parties because of a traumatic incident, saying “I was so negatively affected by it that I no longer want to go out to clubs.” The words “It made me feel insecure of myself” were spoken by Jane as

she questioned her own self-respect in light of the incident’s impact on her self-esteem.

Significant psychological impacts on the victim, such as anxiety, sadness, headaches, sleep problems, and reduced self-esteem, are among the prominent effects. It is vital to identify the warning signs if you presume someone is sexu ally harassing you. The most important measure is whether you feel uneasy or have any unwanted physical contact. If telling someone “no” does not stop them from making un wanted intimate approach, you are being sexually harassed.

It is evident that sexual harassment are major social issues in the Philippines. Even though it will be extremely diffi cult to stop these tragedies and alter the circumstances that make them possible, improvements must be made.

Sexual assault is a serious real problem that used to go unnoticed, but not any longer as it significantly harms the victim’s life, it is imperative that we all take action to prevent it from taking place. Hence, be mindful to help individuals who are subjected to sexual harassment and hold the of fender accountable.

Sexual harassment continues to be a severe and prev alent issue despite decades of awareness, litigation, and advocacy. No gender is insusceptible to sexual harassment nor unaffected by its impacts: Sexual harassment deprives various victims of their lives, health, and chances.

Knowing oneself:

Embracing Sexuality

words by Angelic Feril

As the casual conversation deepens and curiosities bloom, you and your friends love to talk and make fun of the topic “sexuality.” You all automatically link it with sexual activities but little did you know there’s more to that. There’s more to sexuality, and neglecting it distorts a person’s way of thinking. The worstcase scenario is it deteriorates self-esteem.

Life is about finding the truth and discovering ourselves, but how can people start if they refuse to face their intrinsic qualities? By neglecting their origin, how can they know themselves? Are they just letting others define them because they don’t know themselves?

What is Sexuality?

According to Don Lucas, a coordinator of the Psychology Department and a professor of psychology at Northwest Vista College in San Antonio, Texas, sexuality is one of the critical drivers of how people feel, think, and act. It outlines a person’s attraction to people, describes psychological and sociological self-representations, and defines biological reproduction methods.

In other words, sexuality is the determinator of one’s identity. As Renzyl Mae Abong Betita, a psychological prac titioner put it, “when we talk about sexuality, It is holistic. It is not ‘Bastos’ as the usual reaction when mentioned. It is a significant part of our journey of being an individual.”

Why do I need to embrace it?

Have you ever met someone whose life depends on what society thinks of him, to the point that it dictates his way of living? If you have, then here’s why;

One of the reasons why some people love validation from society is because it gives them an idea of their identity. Of course, this is a bluff. The real reason is that some of them can’t validate their real identities, and thus they seek some one to define who they are. For instance, If you can’t accept your sexuality, which is central to your self-identity, you may be confused about who you are. You may resort to con forming to a group of people who supports sexual stigma to neglect your true sexuality.

Andrew, a pseudonym, is a former student from JBLCF-B who shared his experience with us. He told us that growing up, he is perceived as ‘manly’, and therefore he lived up to the image set by her family for him. He had a homophobic father who forced him to enroll at a maritime school, even

though he wants architecture. He finds it ironic that in a place full of men, that is where he found out that he is not attracted to the opposite gender.

“I dated a couple of women to prove that I am that manly man that they perceive. The nonsense dating stopped when I met a schoolmate, and eventually, we clicked. I realized then that I am sexually attracted to my same sex. However, I immediately found out that I had my ex pregnant. Not only that I ruined my life, but I also ruined hers” He added.

He stopped going to school to support his child. This was, according to him, the biggest mistake in his life. He always thought of what it could’ve been if he didn’t neglect his sexuality. Perhaps no woman will be in shambles because of him, and he could’ve been happier without the pressure. His mental health deteriorated due to anxiety, thus resulting in using people to dodge his sexuality.

“A person’s sense of self-worth and mental health suffers when unable to express their sexuality, which is central to their identity. Coming out can result in acceptance and sup port for some people, but this may not always be the case. Prepare yourself to deal with people’s reactions if you come out. You will get support from people, but there might be some who don’t,” words from Head to Health, a free mental health service from Australia.

Loosen up your fear. It’s time for a warm hug!

It seems terrifying not to adhere to society’s validation. Still, it’s more freeing than letting yourself get eaten by external descriptions about yourself. The only means to stop this is not to suppress but to embrace your sexuality. Otherwise, it will manifest through the wrong channels, like entering a relationship wherein you know, deep inside, that you’re not romantically interested.

“If teenagers feel different, they need to be honest with themselves. I know there are a lot of challenges, like a judgment from society. Still, if they remained silent, nothing would ever happen.” A piece of advice from Raymart Blas Valeriano, RPm, A guidance Officer from John B. Lacson Colleges-Foundation, Inc.

Sir Raymart also said, “No one can define you but your self.” You must be brave enough to know yourself, even if it is scary. Others don’t have a say about who you are, even your birth parents. Fear indicates something we are afraid to confront, and comfort is not forever. Respect always comes within ourselves first. So which path will you choose?

graphic art by Mdpn. Jeramell Leandro Anlap

Lacsonian Students An Ode to the Unpraised

words by Mdpn. Angelo Ryan Giltendez & Mdpn. Jethro Rei Giltendez

VALUES CORNER photos by TheCarrier

As the morning light warmed the crevices of my room, it reminded me of the hope that is fading as my time here at the institution winds down. Feeling hopeless, impotent, and despondent, I watched as the once-bright sunlight fades and gives way to a dark and dreary future

Seafaring is not for the faint of heart

Pursuing a career in the maritime industry has a lot of obstacles that may obstruct you from reaching certain advancements in your life. Many tales told by seafarers forewarn us of the extreme isolation they experience aboard ships, the unavoidable instances of dangers at sea, and the numerous misunderstandings that arise among the crew that leads to conflicts and quarrels. Nearly everyone is familiar with the majority of these sea tales. However, there is one stumbling block that is not being discoursed frequently enough; the rejection felt by aspiring cadets from international manning companies.

For students in John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation – Ba colod, Inc. (JBLCF-B), competition is skyrocketing in terms of applying for a spot in the placement office. Typically, the appli cation requirements for students are the following: commend able behavior, an overall weighted grade point average of at least 85, and the initiative and determination to apply. Com petition for a spot is being battled amongst students who are Graduates of the Senior High School of JBLCF-B, the first-year students, up to the third-year students of the institution.

“There is a need for us students to secure a company as soon as possible because of the fact that it would ensure that after we graduate from this institution, we are able to proceed with our cadetship program to earn our bachelor’s degree,” said Midshipman Ritzi Neuel Nabor, a current BSMT 3 student in this institution.

“Competition in the maritime industry is tense. Shipping Companies only want the best or the ones that have the best potential out of the candidates that were selected (by the placement office).” said Midshipman Teddie Emmanuel Deme gillo, a current BSMT 2 student who is also vying for a shipping company.

With the recent implementation of full face-to-face classes in JBLCF-B, the placement office has never been more booked for students applying to become candidates for the next company that decides to take in students in this institution.

“During the second month of this school year, 2022 – 2023,

students from the first-years up to the third-years have already filed their applications, as well as, have started attend ing their weekly reviews with their teachers,” said Mrs. Ma. Cristina B. Gallego, school’s person-in-charge of the placement office.

To have the best chances of obtaining a company, students must have the initiative to approach the placement office and fill up the application form, whenev er they can.

Students like Mdpm. Demegillo and Mdpm. Nabor is one of those students who has been show casing their dedication and continued perseverance to secure a shipping company. Their stories are somewhat linked, in the sense that both have similar ex periences in terms of failures and their continued passion for seafaring.

The first downfall

Students throughout the world have their first opportunity to secure a shipping company during their 12th grade, which is be ing provided by the Norwegian Shipowners Association (NSA). Through this, students are assessed by two types of examina tions: written and computer-based. Mdpm. Nabor, applied for the NSA scholarship exam during his 12th grade in 2020 held at John B. Lacson Maritime University – Molo. Whereas Mdpm.Demegillo applied for the NSA scholar ship via online due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021.

“I passed both written and computer-based examinations when I applied for the NSA scholarship, yet I got dropped during the interviews,” said Mdpm. Nabor.

“I applied for the NSA scholarship online because of the COVID-19 outbreak. We were all assessed through an online examination composed of three subjects: English, math, and science; I failed the first part of the application,” said Mdpm. Demegillo .

Both aspiring seafarers had felt their first downfall as they both failed in securing the NSA Cadetship Program.

“I felt bad for not getting into the NSA Cadetship Program. I started thinking that I may have lacked the certain effort and confidence that they might be looking for a cadet at the time. I know that I always have a struggle when it comes to interviews because I always feel tense whenever I was public speaking or doing interviews back in my years,” said Mdpm. Nabor.

“Disappointed’’ was the first word that came to my mind when I didn’t pass the examination during the NSA Cadetship Program. I thought to myself that I wasted the opportunity that was given to me. But at the same time, I realized that maybe the NSA Cadetship Program was not really meant for me and that there are other shipping companies to apply to in my col lege years,” said Mdpm. Demegillo .

Their first downfalls bring in a feeling of disappointment and letdowns, which makes students question whether they are real ly fit for the maritime industry. This, however, was turned upside down by these two Lacsonians, choosing to become optimistic about the situation, by using it as their firsthand experience to learn more from their mistakes and to know what to do in their next application.

A Cycles of letdowns and struggles

For Lacsonians to be fit to lead in the maritime industry, each student is being instilled with the core values of “I-PLEDGE,” which makes them totally capable of withstanding certain prob lems that arise in their lives. In this case, whether applying for a shipping company, failing to secure a company, or starting all over again, these obstacles in life are just stepping stones for Lacsonians to practice their sense of perseverance that would be of utmost importance when aboard the ship.

According to Mdpm. Demegillo, there is an existing difference between his first experience of failing to secure a company with his most recent one.

“With the first experience of not being able to secure a spot in the NSA, was heartbreaking. However, my most recent failure of obtaining a scholarship at Phoenix was more of another learning experience. It sucked, but I kind of took it more profes sionally and I immediately took my time to apply again in the Placement Office.”

Perseverance, initiative, and motivation to succeed are the key traits of being a true-blooded Lacsonian in these kinds of situations.

For Mdpn. Nabor, who had already failed four times in apply ing, is able to keep his head held high and continue his journey of applying so that he may reach his dreams of becoming a successful seafarer in the future.

“I failed in getting into the NSA Cadetship Program, the Inter modal Shipping, the Fukujin Kisen Co, Ltd., and the Pacific Basic Shipping. During the first three, I failed the interview, and the

last one was the exam. All throughout these experiences, I’ve learned one thing: when fear wins over me, it is when everything goes downhill.” says Mdpn. Nabor

Progress is progress, no matter how small

To truly appreciate the beauty of success, one must know how to value the failures and letdowns in their life. For both Mdpm. Nabor and Demegillo, rejection is just one of the minor set backs in figuring out their purpose in the maritime industry.

“Throughout the years, failing has had a huge deal on my life. It made me feel despondent about life, whether I am actual ly questioning my worth. But for all that’s happened in the past, I began to value those experiences—the failures and mistakes— so that in the near future, I am ready and equipped to face another challenge in my life. I have learned to appreciate that whenever I fail, I know that I am able to come back stronger the next day,” said Mdpm Nabor.

After you have done your part and done all that you can, studying intensively, and condition ing yourself for the interview, the most nerve-wracking part awaits—waiting to see if you are one step closer to achieving a goal of becoming a full-fledged seafarer or reverting back to square one. We all share the same passion— seafaring—and it is up to us if we choose to continue pursuing a career in the maritime industry or to start exploring other options.

At the end of the day, it is instilled upon us, Lacsonians, the values embodied by our founder Captain John B. Lacson.

#Padayon Marino

Bounce Back of Athletes

words by Mdpn. Vince Dave Duquilla & Mdpn. Marc Cortez

Nothing is more entertaining than watching people compete, individually or in a team format, where arenas are magnified with echoing chants from supporters and fans, exhibition of skills that are both breathtaking and mesmerizing, a sight of adrenaline and constant nerve racking moments, those are the things that were lacking as the plague that has been identified as the Covid-19 pandemic, which is responsible for altering the course of our lives, putting a hush sound to all whistles and emptying the seats of courts, arenas, bleachers alongside pools, And other athletic venues postponing sporting events all around the world.

Cleo Niel Villaruel, a student athlete and a second-year college student of marine transportation. He has been a swimmer since he was 12-years-old. He has experienced set backs and changes by the occurrence of pandemic since his routine has altered, perhaps dormant. School activities will start as soon as the full-blast face-to-face learning modality is implemented, so for the athletes, it’s showtime.

“I am now excited to participate in swimming competi tions and finish my laps” Villaruel said as he felt the thrill and eagerness of the upcoming sports event this school year will offer. “My body will now be conditioned and it feels good to be in training again,” he added. Athletes are now vying and exhilarated as they will go back to their training norms after the 2 long year pause.

Athletes have put on a show for decades, and they are the ones that highlight the impact of sports in an individual’s life, you may see them with their game faces on, focused and determined to give their all during a specific game, overflowing with passion and pride, they constantly push themselves each and everyday to become better at their craft, pouring blood and sweat everytime they train, sharp ening their skills while keeping a laser focus on what the goal is.

Yet as these people have experienced a 2 year drought, the landscape of how they go about their lives have been altered by restrictions to movement and gatherings thus postponing training sessions and athletic events, they were benched at their homes a quite unfamiliar experience for

graphics by Mdpn. Jerammel Leandro Anlap

them considering that these people have tremendous passion and love for sports, and they spend most of their times outside their houses.

And as we are now continuing to progress through the dire challenges that we faced, The country’s effort on mass vaccina tion helped fuel the downfall of cases and transmissions, major venues around the country are now ready to host exciting events again and provide the environment that athletes need for them to work on their craft,“It’s full steam ahead,” said Philippine Sports Commission chairman Noli Eala as he guaranteed that the agency would deliver services to the national teams and grassroots partners by opening these facilities for training and competi tions.“We’re excited to see the national athletes back in training in these facilities,” he added

In fact the institution has hosted its first Governors Cup in al most 2 years of standstill during the month of May last semester, considering the success of the 2 day athletic event, the school now is given the green light to uphold this years upcoming Intramurals that will be held on November, opening the doors for Lacsonian athletes to indulge in the beauty of competition while also building camaraderie and instilling the importance of teamwork and individual contributions, all in which are vital things to consider in sports.

The institution is now looking at other prospects for selection of varsity teams as well, to be part of several sporting events. The selected individuals will be the one to represent the school for upcoming athletic meets, training facilities are also available for student athletes as they will be grinding their way back into shape.

There is no such thing more sweeter than clawing right back where you left off, despite the dark situations that we experienced the last 2 years, we are now ready to be entertained again by magicians and sorcerers alike, but instead of seeing these people wielding a magic stick they will dazzling us with their display of skills and athleticism, inspiring us by looking at the amount of work they have done to reach the level they are in, while also putting us out of our seats as they do what they love, with overflowing passion, relentless drive and a desire to put.

DIRI SA AMON

"KAPE ALBARAKO, SAGAY CITY"

Mdpn. Emman Giordan Jagmoc Mdpn. Emman Giordan Jagmoc

Along the beautiful black sand coastline of Barangay Old Sagay, you can find a colorful cafe-art gallery by the sea. “Kape Albarako”, a two-storey bamboo structure directly facing the 32,000 hectares of marine protected seascape, Sagay Marine Reserve. A place where you can relax and enjoy while having a cup of freshly-brewed coffee. A place where love for the community, arts and nature began and blends perfectly. A place where Sagaynon’s pride, an internationally and locally acclaimed artist- Nunelucio Alvarado lives. Today, Margaha becomes the epicenter or Arts and culture in Northern Negros.

A Lacsonian Craft: See through

Mdpn. Lindong's eyes

words by Mdpn. Vince Dave Duquilla

In our technologically advanced culture, the inherent value of art cannot be overstated. Art fosters creativity and aesthetic beauty in societies. It is significant because it improves our culture. People are made happy and content by art.

Art can be used to express truth and beliefs. It depicts a wide range of concepts and emotions, such as triumph, love, happiness, grief, and boredom. Every message in art conveys ideas that are important in contemporary culture. Only when there is a healthy balance of human capital with technical skills and artistic talent can society be said to be whole.

Midshipman Clarence Paul Lindong, a Lacsonian, exem plifies excellence in the arts and craftsmanship by winning several contests. It does not only limit the scope locally, as he dominates the regional and national competitions.

Clarence Paul Lindong is an 18-year-old student, and a veteran in editorial cartooning and poster making. Forming a bond with the brush and colors as he developed these tal ents and skills. He made significant contributions and honors to the schools he attended by consistently bringing medals and awards, mainly to the contests he participated.

He garnered awards by placing 2nd out of 30 schools in a Visayas art competition during his high school days, being a recipient of a gold medal in division poster making, and participating in the Regional School Press Conference. His current achievement is placing 1st in the Likha: Poster-Mak ing Contest in celebration of World Mental Health Awareness Month. And bagging the 5th spot in a national poster-making contest out of 21 maritime schools in the Philippines that took place on September 15th this year.

“Ang nagbibigay sa akin ng motibasyon ay ang mga taong naniniwala at sumusuporta sa kakayahan ko” Lindong said. As he shares what motivates him to create his crafts and art pieces. “Nakakahanap ako ng inspirasyon sa mga taong nagpapatuloy sa kanilang passion sa pagpipinta pati na rin sa mga linilikha nila” he added. An artist’s constant urge to create is what drives them. It’s a never-ending cycle of creating, contemplating, planning, beginning, and finish ing.

Developing artistic abilities allows artists to more effec tively communicate their ideas. An artist learns techniques to improve their work, just as a writer learns new words to broaden their vocabulary. As you experiment with different approaches, you will develop a distinct perspective on the subjects you are drawing. “Nahubog ko ang aking kakaya han noong ako’y sumasali sa mga iba’t-ibang contest. At mayroon ring mga magagaling na pintor na tumutulong sa akin upang mas lalo ko pang matutunan ang mga tech nique kung paano mapadali ang mga proseso nito” Lindong stated.

photo courtesy of Mdpn. Clarence Lindong

The art industry has been ravaged by the COVID-19 pan demic. As COVID continues to disrupt in-person programs, job circumstances for artists and creative professionals are improving, but the arts are rebounding more slowly than other industries.

“Noong kasagsagan ng pandemya, malaki ang epek to sa akin sa kadahilanang madali akong ma artblock at kulang ako sa mga art materials pero palagi ko isinasaisip na dapat ipagpatuloy ko ang aking mga nasimulan. Maliban sa paggawa ng mga bagong likha na gamit ang pinta naka hanap ako ng ideya at gumawa ako ng sariling medium upang ma ipagpatuloy kolang ang aking nakahumalingan. Naka gawa ako ng isang pyesa na kung saan lahat ng mga alaala ko nung hindi pa pandemya at nilagay ko sa isang plywood at ginawan ko ng isang parang cinematic na scene na kung saan tuwing nakikita ng mga tao yung pyesa na ginawa ko ay maalala nila Ang mga kaganapan noon kung saan hindi pa pandemya” Lindong expressed.

As the new standard emerges, there are now several opportunities that can be provided for student artists like Lindong. “Maraming mga oportunidad na dumating sakin, gaya na lang ng pag anyaya sa akin ng paaralan na maki pag timpalak sa National Seafarers Day” Lindong men tioned, as he was very grateful to the opportunities that the institution, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation - Bacolod Inc. have offered.

Art is present everywhere and is universal. It is not just for individuals who practice making art; it is also for those who appreciate it. We would not have been able to recognize the beauty in things if there was no art. In a sense, art promotes relaxation and helps us put our concerns behind us.

Pagbalik sang Yuhum sa

Syudad sang Bacolod

sulat ni Danielle Grapa kag Mdpn. Joje Ken Montalvo photo by Mdpn. Bab Christian Sanchez

sang 2020, gin tabunan sang

COVID-19 ang yuhum sa bilog nga kalibutan nga nagrason sa pag-un tat sang pag-unsad sang mga piyesta.

Pero sini nga tuig, gina pamatud-an sang mga Bacolodnon ang ila pagkabakod upod sang engrande nga pagbalik sang Masskara. Nilibo ka yuhum ang nakita sa nagka lain-lain nga lugar sa Syudad sang Bacolod bangod sa paghiwat sang Masskara sa tuig sang 2022. Nagbalik ang matuod nga tuyo sang Masskara, ang “pagbalik sang yuhum” sang mga Bacolodnon.

Ang nagsugod lang sa tatlo ka adlaw nga selebrasyon nangin isa ka bulan nga paghugyaw sang mga sonata, pagkaon, taliambong, pagrampa, kag mga parada.

Kada Oktubre, ang syudad sang Bacolod nagasuksok sang ila nga mga matam-is nga yuhum para sa pag hiwat sang ini nga okasyon sa pagkabuhi sa simbolo sang masskara.

Ang opisyal nga paghiwat sang Mass kara nagsugod sang Setyembre 30, 2022,

sa Bacolod City Government Center. Ang tema sang subong nga Masskara “Balik Yuhum” nga nagapahiwatig sa “pagbalik sang yuhom” isa ka reperensiya nga tatak sang Bacolod amo ang “City of Smiles”.

Sa tunga sang kagab-ihon kag pag bundak ka ulan, madamo gihapon ang nagtilipon kag naghulat sa tunga sang Bacolod City Government Center para up dan kag bantayan ang oras sa pag sugod sang ika 43rd Masskara Festival kag gin sundan ini sang 8 ka-minuto nga fireworks display.

Suno kay Mayor Albee Benitez, amo ini ang ila nga gina preparahan para ihatag sa aton ang pinakadako kag engrande nga Masskara Festival. Gin hambal niya man nga ang Masskara Festival sini nga tuig, ang una nga gin hiwat pagkatapos sang pandemiya, wala gid naglus-aw sa ekspektasyon sang mga tawo.

Isa na ang paghanda sa anom ka lugar nga gin hiwatan sang piyesta para ang mga tawo may pilian kung diin magkadto kag hindi mag-ginutok.

Gin updan sang mga kilala nga tawo sa industriya ang pagsugod sang Mass kara Festival subong nga tuig sa Bacolod City Government Center. Gin pangunahan ini sang isa ka rakista nga si Rico Blanco, upod ang mga lokal nga nagapasunday ag kag ang mga kandidata nga naga intra sa Miss Bacolod Masskara. Miss Bacolod Masskara Pageant

Kara Daniela Villarosa gin koronah an bilang Miss Bacolod Masskara sang Ika-19 sang Oktubre 2022 nga gin hiwat sa University of Saint La Salle-Bacolod coliseum.Gin sundan ini ni Janine Gelera nga gin tanghal nga Miss Masskara World kag Best Festival Costume award. Sunod si Miss Bacolod Masskara International kag ini maga representar sang Bacolod sa Binibining Pilipinas sa sunod nga tuig. Eirine Juliane Granda kag si Sandale Ma sangcay naman ang 1st kag 2nd runner up sa ini nga pageant.

I. Masskara sa BCGC

Kaangay sa Sunset Fest ang palagwaon sa Tourism Strip Mainstage nga gin hiwat sa North Capital Rd., sa paghatag sang kasadya kag lingaw sa tanan. Nagtukar ang mga sikat nga mga banda kag mga solo artists diri sa Pilipinas.

Wala man nagpaulihi ang Globe’s Loud Music Festival 2022 nga parte sang Lacson Tourism Strip tungod ini ang pinakadako kag pinakakusog nga Music Fest suno sa mga Bacolodnon. Nagsugod ini sang Oktubre 21 alas 6 sang gab-e asta sang natapos ang highlights sang Mass kara. Nangin bahin diri ang mga banda kag mga sikat nga solo artists.

sila nagpakita sang ila nga talento sa Mo tortrade 2022 Safety Riding Festival didto sa MegaWorld, Upper East Bacolod.

Ampay sang mga tawo nga naka-kad to sa Upper East Bacolod tungod makita okun makasulod sila sa McDonald’s Upper East by MegaWorld Bacolod kay ini ang “Philippine’s Most Beautiful McDonald’s” nga gin buksan para sa publiko sa tiyem po sang Masskara Festival.

Gin bansagan man ini siya nga ‘Newest tambayan’ suno sa mga travel bloggers nga gina pakita ang mga lugar nga gina hiwatan sang Masskara.

II. Masskara sa Panaad

Sang ika-10 sang Oktubre gin buk san liwat para sa publiko ang Panaad Park and Stadium para maiwatan sang Masskara Festival sa mga pwesto sang 10 ka siyudad kag 19 ka munisipyo sa bilog nga Negros. Ini gin preparahan gid sang Provincial Administrator nga si Sir Ray frando Diaz II. Suno siya ihatag gid nila subong ang pinaka-nami nga pagbalik sang Panaad upod sang pagselebrar ka Masskara.

III. Masskara sa Lacson

Nabuhi sa liwat ang Lacson Tourism Strip bangod sa Masskara Festival 2022. Sari-sari nga kiosk ang gapakita sang katahom sang Bacolod, halin sa mga lokal nga banda asta sa mga pagkaon.

Ang pag-igpat sang madamo nga mga duag ka suga sa Ayala Malls Capitol Central bangod sa Masskara Floats ang nagdugang sa mga talan-awon ka mga tawo. Nagparada sila kaupod sang Lac son Tourism Strip sang Oktubre 25, 2022 (Biyernes) alas 5:30 sang hapon.

IV. Masskara sa Plaza

Mabatyagan gid ang espirito sang Masskara Festival sa Plaza sa pag pa dayon sang 21 ka-adlaw nga selebrasyon, nangin bugtaw ang lugar sang Plaza sa Bacolod sugod sang ika-1 sang Oktubre. Gin-hiwat ang Masskara Food Festival sa Bacolod City Public Plaza nga gina hapi tan ka mga galagaw nga mga tawo para sa gina tawag nga FoodFest mukbang suno sa mga pauso nga termino sang mga kabataan.

Nag-andam ang mga tawo sang ila nga mga kaugalingon sa pagsugata sang sonata kag ilimnon sang pagsugod ka highlights bangod may gin plastar man nga palagwaan sa Bacolod Public Plaza kung diin nagtukar ang nagka lain-lain nga mga banda

VI. Masskara sa Baywalk V. Masskara sa Upper East

Amo ni ang pinakauna nga selebra syon sang Masskara Festival sa Upper East nga nagbilin sang masadya nga eksperyensya sa mga sa paghiwat ang Electric Masskara Float Parade. Wala madula ang mga Masskara Dancers sa pagbilin sang una nga impresyon kay

Gina balik-balik sang mga tawo ang matahom nga bista sang katulundan nga gina pabugal sang Bacolod amo ini ang Baywalk. Anom ka-tuig nga gin sira ini sang lokal nga gobyerno kag sini lang gid nga ika-1 sang Oktubre gin abrihan liwat para mangin parte sang piyesta, ini nangin Masskara by the Bay.

Madamo ang nalipay sa pag-abri liwat sang Baywalk kag gina pangabay sang tanan nga bisan matapos na ang Mass kara Festival, magpadayon sa gihapon ang pagbukas sini agud puwede lang malagawan.

Biskan ano nga init kag inulan, paday on sa gihapon ang mga Bacolodnon sa pagselebrar sang Masskara Festival. Dako gid pasalamat sang mga tawo sa kay Mayor Albee Benitez nga gin prepara han gid ang pumuluyo sang Bacolod sang engrande nga Masskara Festival. Tanan nga tawo gin hidlaw gid sa ini nga piyesta nga gina hiwat lang kada Oktubre sang tuig. Naubra gid sang syudad sang Bacolod ang handom nga ibalik ang mga yuhom sang tanan matapos ang malawig nga pag-antos sang sobra 2 ka-tuig nga pandemiya.

REVIEWS

t’s the 24th of July, the year 2020, and The surprising release of the 8th studio album, Titled Folklore By Taylor Allison Swift. It was made in the middle of the Pandemic, without knowing that she is already doing some thing that can win various awards and sold a million copies worldwide. This release would serve as a surprise for her supporters following the cancellation of her 7th studio album entitled “Lover fest” World tour concert 3 years back. Taylor Swift gave emphasis to the theme of Folklore revolving around “ conflict resolution”. That correlates to being able to make connec tions after the isolation brought upon by the pandemic.

This is the second self-owned album that Taylor released after “Lover”; it is composed of16 tracks with 1 bonus track with the title “the Lakes” exclusive for deluxe editions. The run time of the whole album is about an hour and three minutes long, while the deluxe version is an hour and seven minutes long. Some songs in this album have a melodramatic vibe while the rest have a chill and yet devastatingly sad vibe.

Folklore sold 1.2 million album units and 1 billion streams on its first release and is still counting up to this day. It also won many awards after the year it was released; some of its achievements is the Danish Music Award for inter national album of the year (2020). GRAMMY for Album of the year (2021) in the 63rd GRAMMY award show. iHeartRadio Music award for pop album of the year (2021).

What made this album special is that there were three songs that I consid ered to be a trilogy “Betty(James, POV), Cardigan(Betty, POV), and August (Augustine’s, POV)” The songs start with a modern classical and with a taste of fantasy background music, this gives me a melodramatic and yet so calming vibe. The reason why it made me think it became a trilogy? because if you listen to the song one by one you will start to understand and have a clear perspective about the love triangle happening.

The Lyrics that I’ve considered to be memorable are “In my defense, I have none, for digging up the grave another time” from track 1 “the 1” it made me think about the what-ifs and guilt that may correlate to the feelings or the situation may occur if that “what-ifs” will surely going to happen.

Lastly, many songs in this album I considered to be perfect for alone or “Me time” songs, it gives pleasure to fit your mental needs. If you feel down or drained out, just listen to the songs on the shuffle of this album until you feel

will slowly start to fade and you start to feel great again. But

were also some of the words used in this album that you need to open

the song fully. Overall, I will rate this as 4.5/5

also helps me to increase my vocabulary.

words by Antonio Ricardo Nobleza photo from Taylor Swift album folklore

GAME

words by Mdpn. Carwin Pagunsan graphics by Emmy Nava

An open-world game is where the player can freely pace his objectives throughout his journey. Besides the main story or quest, there are a ton of side quests available, NPC to talk to, and discov eries waiting to encounter the main character in the game. You can place your own journey in this game, a little bit of burnout on the main quest? Here, do some side quests and level up some of your stats so that the main questline is easier to traverse.

This essentially correlates to your freedom of how you proceed with the story, how you interact with the people inside the game, and how your actions affect the world of the game

The uniqueness of Fallout 4 from other open-world games is how they set up the progression of the player. Random encounters can be experi enced by the sole survivor (You) as they travel along the wasteland. Some games also do this as it’s randomly generated. Fallout 4 on the other hand takes it to a next level by adding a random encounter based on the story progress, interaction with other related side quests, and the level of the player. This means that every playthrough of the player in that scenario can vary on the time when he encountered it, the level of his character, and the story’s progress. It gives a unique

feeling that at every start of your game, you’ll have no idea how you’ll progress through the story, the lores that you can come across the wasteland, and the unique characters inside the game that you can interact with.

Variation of Characters

It is safe to say that a lot of games have specific builds that you can choose in order to suit your playstyle. This also applies to Fallout 4, where your character has stats and perks that can help you in the wasteland. The difference is that Fallout 4’s stat and perk system is universal throughout the game. It’s flexible in other terms, you can start a stealth build with the main focus on snipers, but if you end up liking melee stealth builds, it’s easier to adapt the stats and perks of your character to compensate for the necessary stats to accommodate the build. Every perk is also different, the more you add ranks to a certain perk, the more bonuses it gets and sometimes it is game-breaking. With multiple builds to tackle in the game, it takes a considerable amount of time and effort invested in the game to truly say that he/she saw everything in the game

Valorant is a first-person hero shooter that is free to play. It is developed by Riot Games, the one who also developed the League of Legends in 2009 and is still played today. There are multiple Heroes or Agents in Valorant’s term, to use, with each of them having multiple abilities, specifically 3 abilities and 1 ultimate, that varies with each agent, unique ultimates, different voice, and a whole lot more. Multiple arsenals of weapons to use are also present, whether it may be a sniper, pistol, a rifle, or SMG. It’s all up to you to combine the agents’ capability and the weapon of your preference.

Basic Combat Knowledge

The implementation of normal 5v5 1st person shooter games, the abilities of each agent, and their interaction with other agents’ is seamless. The agents’ skills blended well with the 1st person shooter side of Valorant, you see smokes totally block the sight of the attacker, the molotovs deal damage exactly the way it does, and utilities do exactly what they were meant to do. The guns on the other hand have their own uniqueness. Each has their pen etrability, range, damage, magazine round, reload speed, and a whole lot more. Together, it adds up to games that are different each time because of the combina tion of different lineups of agents and preferability of weapons.

words by Mdpn. Carwin Pagunsan graphics by Emmy Nava

Game modes to try

Valorant can be casual where you enjoy with your friends, queueing up with randoms, and just generally want to have fun, then game modes (E.G. unrat ed,spike rush, and deathmatch) besides “Competitive” are for you. Deathmatch generally has a respawn mechanism after you die, so this is usually used for practices.

Unrated is the normal game of valorant with 13 rounds, and spike rush is the shorter version of unrated with powerups here and there. Competitive game mode on the other hand is the one where you are tested, with higher stakes involved, and ranks are earned through victory. It’s one of the aspect of Valorant that measures your mastery of the map, agents, aiming skills, and your overall mastery of the game.

Competitivity

With the competitive aspect of Valorant, people utilize things that are not seen on a surface level. Pros mention things like rotation, zoning, footstep manipulation, and a lot more. These things require extensive practice, research, and understandability to execute properly. If executed properly, it can give you the edge to win the battle between attackers and defenders.

This essentially means that valorant has a low skill floor but has a high skill level, low skill floor implies that players can pick up the game, and with the matter of hours of playing, can catch up with the basic mechanics of the game. High skill ceiling on the other hand, suggests that players dedicating their time and effort in mastering the core mechanics of the game has a tremendous difference compared to casual players that play for fun.