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LA TRINIDAD CELEBRATES STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

La Trinidad, Benguet - The much-awaited Strawberry Festival was celebrated on March 6 -31, 2023, for this year’s celebration with the theme, “A Festival for recovery: Building a Brighter Future from Adversities.”

Strawberry Festival has made a comeback after three years of hiatus as caused by the pandemic.

This year’s celebration featured multiple events for the community to showcase talents, skills, local products, and the highlight of the festival – the strawberries. The theme is all about reviving the economy of the municipality from the lockdowns caused by the Coronavirus.

“Daytoy apo ti first time after the pandemic that we would celebrate the Strawberry

Festival and daytuy metlang

iti kasla nga aramiden tayu so that we could now open up the economy in the Municipality of La Trinidad. So in some way nga we are celebrating this special Strawberry Festival because for the last three years, we don’t have any activities,” said Roderick Awingan, La Trinidad Vice Mayor.

This year marks a special celebration for Strawberry Festival’s revival.

“We came from a threeyear pandemic. From zero tourists, zero activities. It’s very

NHA demolishes illegal structures at Teacher’s Camp

unique because we are trying to start again. Restart tourism, restart economy, sung, basically this is a very unique activity which is the largest activity in the municipality of La Trinidad,” added Awingan

Chinese Snowhite Variety

This year is also the first year where the ‘Chinese Snow White’ variety of strawberry is featured in the festival.

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The Baguio Anti-Squatting and Illegal Structures (BASIS) movement demolished houses in Teachers Camp on April 9th to inspect and stop unauthorized constructions. BASIS aims to combat illegal structures in the area and ensure compliance with local regulations.

The said movement was started when personnel of Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) Station 3 discovered unauthorized buildings while on foot patrol at the Forbes Forest Reservation along South Drive Road.

On March 3rd, La Trinidad Mayor Benjamin

Magalong, ordered an enhanced campaign against ongoing illegal structures. The core group named BASIS was also organized to undertake inspections and stop structural developments not covered by necessary permits.

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BSU signs partnership with Rex Education

DAISYLYN B. CONTADA

Benguet State University (BSU) has partnered with Rex Education to bring Outcome-Based Education to its programs. The five-year agreement was signed by BSU President Felipe Comila, CTE dean Dr. Divina Yango, and VPAA Mr. Samuel Poliden at a ceremony held at the DSG Hall on April 4, 2023.

The partnership aims to publish instructional books and improve the quality of education.

On Outcome-Based Education

Benguet State University and Rex Education is the first partnership the

University did with regard to Outcome-based Education.

“Outcome-based Education is what we are implementing actually, that’s the trend that we have right now and in outcome-based education,

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LA TRINIDAD, BENGUET, CORDILLERA ADMINISTRATIVE REGION

NIKKO BRYLL T. MABLAY

UNITY AND STRENGTH. Betag Tallibeng Cultural Ensemble performs their streetdance during the Strawberry Festival Street Dancing Parade on March 18, 2023.

Photo by Absalom DT

RYALIN M. LIBELO

CASH SUBSIDY. The Department of Social Welfare Cordillera Administrative Region (DSWDCAR) disburses Php 14, 100, 000 subsidy to 1,410 vendors following the fire that tore down Blocks 3 and 4 of the Baguio City Public Market.

La Trinidad celebrates Strawbery Festival

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La Trinidad Municipal Agriculturist Nida Organo shared that there is a few volume for the Snow White variety as it was only introduced to the municipality before the pandemic. According to her, only two farmers are producing the Snow White variety in La Trinidad under the supervision of Benguet State University.

The Snow White variety is also featured in this year’s twin giant strawberry cake, one of the main highlights of

the festival. The twin giant cake is about seven feet tall, 14 feet wide, and five feet in width with about 16,000 slices.

Strawberry Lane

Another highlight of the festival is the Strawberry Lane. It showcased the products of some micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) featuring stalls selling strawberry flavored cakes, wines, jams, cookies, candles, and other strawberry-

themed decorations. La Trinidad Mayor Romeo Salda thanked the different agencies who have trained the different agencies who have trained the MSMEs.

“We would like to thank our different agencies who have trained our MSMEs to produce some byproducts of our strawberries. Isuda piman ti nangisponsor ti training tapno agtraing dagitoy MSMEs,” said Salda in an interview with PTV Cordillera.

Parade and dances

The floats for the Valley of Colors category featured an array of flowers and vegetables produced in the municipality while the Pro-Environment category showcased the use of recycled materials such as pet bottles, carton boxes, and used straws.

Beckel was awarded as champion for the Valley of Colors category while Balili was

NHA demolishes illegal structures at Teacher’s Camp

From Page 1

The National Housing Authority began demolishing homes and other structures covering the Teachers Compound on April 9 to stop illegal structures built on a portion of Proclamation 613 covering the Teachers Camp Compound.

On April 13, 2023, The Baguio City Public Information Office posted on Facebook about the case with the caption, “Three structures built within the Teachers Camp reservation without the requisite building permit and no consent to construct were demolished April 13, 2023, by

the composite members of the City Demolition Team and City Anti-Squatting and Illegal Structures (BASIS).”

The demolition sparked a lot of interest in the citizens of Baguio City. There were a lot of opinions being circulated online, and some of them commented on the post of the BCPIO saying that they did an excellent job in acting immediately. However, some of the comments are against the owner of the house.

To correct the opinions being circulated online, one of the owners of the structures commented on the post by

Baguio Midland Courier, saying that they voluntarily agreed [their house] to be demolished in accordance with the law’s implementation. They also mentioned that the demolition went well, and there was peace between them and the authorities.

“Be sensitive po. Di niyo po alam ang prosesong pinagdaan namin dito. Sumunod po kami ngem at least ginawa po namin lahat nang makakaya namin, win or lose at least we did our best.. and di po naming kailangan maki pag away sa ahensya..at all peace po ang nagyari dto in

awarded as champion in the Pro-environment category. The winners received certificates and cash prizes.

“The floats showcased our products here in Benguet and it showed us that there are so many beautiful and wonderful things that we can be proud of, like one example is our strawberries. Some people think that strawberries are from Baguio City, and that’s what’s actually being advertised but of course we know that it’s not true. That’s one of the good things about the floats. It has shown that strawberries are from Benguet. From Kibungan, from La Trinidad,and other places that plant strawberries,” stated Molitas, judge.

The Strawberry Festival Parade also featured the drum and lyre and street dancing contest for elementary students where La Trinidad Central School conquered the competition.

between all concern body and we respect all decision[s] kaya nagvoluntary demolition po kami,” commented Jho Jhajhe, owner.

“Para kanyami, kala ka naabak ti sugal d[i]ta. dibale t nu nasayaat ti kapanpanunutan ket ado nga bendisyon to kasukat na. Maluwag po sa puso namin yan na tinanggap namin ang tako namin. Godbless everyone, matago-tago taku am en,” added Jho Jhajhe.

While some commended NHA, some netizens pointed how quick the LGU acts on public matters.

“Sana all demolished agad lalo na yong na aplayan ng mayayaman na kahirap pakiusapan,investigate po lahat dyan ng nakatayo kung may

Pageant

One of the most anticipated events in the festival was the coronation of Mr. and Ms. La Trinidad. 14 females and 12 male candidates graced the stage with their talents, creative wear, swimwear, evening wear, and wit as they competed for the titles. Mr. Puguis Miguel Jarrel Bas-ilen and Miss Balili Reynice Tello emerged as winners at the end of the pageant.

The month-long celebration had many institutionalized activities like Duting tan Dukto, Strawberry Fun Run, Concerts at the Park, Civic Parade, Kikkan, Owik tan Tayaw, MultiCultural Celebrations, Balili Clean up Drive, Job Fair, and Community contests.

Mayor Salda thanked the sponsors, partners, as well as everyone who helped with the successful implementation of the month-long celebration.

permit, at kung yong mga na awardan sana eh talagang homeless,” said Sweet Fangon Planas, netizen.

“Ang daming illegal structures sa barangay pero pag formal complaint ng private citizens dedma lang pero pag government ang bilis ng action,” commented Etan Lecnad, netizen.

Following this, Mayor Magalong stressed the importance of this campaign, stating, “Please know that the city is taking this campaign seriously since this is a very crucial issue in our city. It is not just an issue of safety but also of health and sanitation, all of which are critical factors affecting the well-being of our residents.”

SWEETNESS OVERLOAD. Twin Giant Cakes made with Sweet Charlie and Snow White Strawberries steal the show at the Strawberry Festival.

Photo by Dhenver L. Bastingo

DANCES AND MUSIC. Sakusak Musical Ensemble graces the street with their ethnic attires performing in the street dance competition.

Photo by Baguio Midland Courier

Baguio City public market goes back to business after fire

On March 12, 2023, at 11 p.m. Baguio Public Market’s Block 4 and almost half of Block 3 were struck by fire resulting in 24-million-peso damage from the 1,572 stalls.

The fire is said to have begun at 11 p.m. on March 12, 2023, after most of the market’s vendors had left. The Bureau of Fire Protection Baguio responded immediately; however, their personnel was insufficient, for some trucks were stationed along Camp 7 Kennon Road in Baguio City. Fortunately, the Private Fire Brigade, La Trinidad, Tuba, Baguio Water District, and other private water delivery helped immediately, and the blaze stopped at 1:33 a.m. on March 13.

Block 4, Block 3, the Baguio Market Cooperative, and the Kaldero Section were all affected. The fire destroyed 1,572 stalls out of 3,900, causing an estimated 24 million pesos in damage.

Loss and Subsidy

In the early morning of March 13, vendors started

gathering, and one of them was Mrs. Amelia, a highland vegetable vendor.

“Parbangon mi lang ah nga naamwan ta agisimpa kami kuma ti lako.” “Idi nakadanun kamin talaga nga napuuranen, adda iti police line ket haan dakami met mabalin nga paunugen nga agala ti anyaman nga mabalin mi pay nga ilako,” she said.

Mrs. Amelia experienced a total loss of P30,000 but she received a 30,000-peso subsidy, with 10,000 coming from DSWD, DepEd student aid, and the livelihood program.

Mr. Florentino, an onion seller who has two other employees to pay, received just the DSWD subsidy.

“Nabayag bago kami nakabawi iti puhunan mi ta idi haan mi mabalin nga ibaba presyo ta malugi kami, tapos adda manen daytoy

napasamak, ket nakarkaro manen ah. Kasaksakada mi lng idi, 25 bags ti sibuyas ket nasurok nga diez mil (10,000 pesos),” he said.

Relocation

In response to the impacts of the fire, the displaced vendors were allowed to vend in different areas of the city, including Hilltop St., Kayang St., portions of Malcolm Square, portions of Perfecto St., and portions of Burnham Park, under Resolution No. 174, Series of 2023. This enabled the vendors to continue their established livelihood sources and sustain their economic operations. At the same time, the local government worked on setting up temporary stalls for their safe vending operation. The money pooled by the vendors since 2020 for transforming the public market was used for their business recovery, according to the president of the Baguio Market Vendors Association Bamava, Zosimo Abartique.

Oplan Bangon Palengke

The BCPO has launched the ‘Bangon Palengke Fund Challenge’ to assist fire victims with their everyday costs. According to City Director Col. Francisco Bulwayan, Jr., they devised a fund-raising strategy to assist merchants in increasing their sales and recovering from the calamity. The said initiative comprised 250 soldiers who, armed with cleaning products and carpentry tools, moved to Blocks 3 and 4 of the city market to carry out the clearing operation on March 13. Marie Venus Tan and her friends were among those who contributed, amassing 1.7 million pesos.

“Baguio Market is iconic for the city, and many people are affected, so the first reaction was to see how we can help,” she told Luzon Headlines.

“Hindi pwedeng matagal yung process. Talagang it was an emergency, so I called on my friends, who were

also very supportive of many projects that we’ve had in the past,” she explained. Accordingly, the clearing and putting up of stalls was estimated to be fixed in three months, but Magalong insisted they finish it in 7 days.

No, we don’t have three months. We have seven days to restore the market and the livelihood of our vendors.

"March 19 was the 7th day since the start of the campaign, and on March 20, we turned over the stalls to our vendors with erstwhile burned spaces all cleaned up and cleared of fire debris”. Mayor Magalong stated in an interview.

Indeed, after just seven days, all 1,572 merchants have reopened for business with the space and stalls supplied.

Cayat faces calls for resignation after linking ‘Igorot’ to Communist Group

JOHNREL R. BALAODAN

resignation after allegedly linking the terms “Igorot”, “Lumad”, and “Tumandok” to the CPP-NPA-NDF during the launching of the NCIP Epanaw Coffee Table Books at SM Baguio last March 21, 2021.

The red-tagging incident from March 2021 was brought to light last April 17, 2023, when the Baguio City Council passed a resolution calling on Cayat to refrain from linking Indigenous Peoples (IP) communities to the CPPNPA-NDF.

The said resolution also urged him to “exercise caution” in his use of language and

public statements.

In his speech last March 21, 2021, Cayat was quoted saying: “I want to or refrain you, ladies and gentlemen, that these words: “Igorot”, “Lumad”, and “Tumandok” are the very words being used by the CPPNPA-NDF or the Communists Terrorists Groups.”

In a post by Baguio

Chronicle, Cayat did not mean to red-tag Cordillerans. He was only denouncing certain groups who intend to exploit the Ips for “political intentions.”

“Igorot, in its present use, refers to people from the mountains. But for some people, this term refers to natives who are co-opted or used by some ideological groups in order to agitate, arose [sic], mobilize, and organize against the government,” Cayat explained in the council forum.

However, netizens were not happy about his remarks –calling for him to resign

from his position as an NCIP Commissioner.

“Such statement is a historical distortion, disinformation sowing confusion and disunity among us Igorots, Lumad and Tumanduk peoples. He must resign. Such commissioner has no place in NCIP if NCIP does its mandate in the service of indigenous peoples,” posted Windel F. Bolinget, CPA Chairperson.

“As Indigenous Youth who are heirs of the culture and identity of our fore ancestors, we cannot allow individuals

like Cayat who do not possess any good characteristics and morale to represent us,” said Siklab Philippine Indigenous Youth Network in their Facebook post.

“This is an affront to our long history of struggle and assertion of identity,” posted Cordillera Peopl’es Alliance, calling for a social media rally.

As of April 23, 2023, #cayatresign and #madiminicayat posts are growing on Facebook with less than 1000 post since April 17, 2023.

RISING FROM THE ASHES. Baguio Public Market vendors return with fresh produce and renewed spirits after a successful rebuilding campaign. Photo by Baguio City PIO

GHERLIE G. EMBERNATE

La Trinidad, Benguet, Cordillera Administrative Region

NCIP Commissioner Gaspar Cayat faces calls for

Benguet State University signs fiveyear partnership with Rex

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first we would like to see the outcome and from that, we implement activities that will reflect the outcomes among our students. What are the skills that we want them to develop on themselves? It should be aligned already with the activities assessment at the end, they should already do those possible things or apply such learnings and show the skills expected of them.” said Dr. Divina Yango, College of Teacher Education Dean, one of the signatories of this partnership.

Dr. Yango also emphasized the need for aligning the implementation of outcome-based education with the university’s goals.

This includes consistent integration of outcomes and objectives throughout the program, as well as ensuring alignment with higher targets like the Philippine Professional Standards for Teachers.

“The outcomes will be manifested among the learners so [that] it goes with the activities actualization like what we do in the actual, that’s what it is expected to be reflected also in the book to be written. Even in the activities, it should also be aligned with achieving the outcomes-based,” added Yango.

Training for teachers

The said partnership will also provide training for the teachers in BSU and

teachers will try to publish their materials with Rex.

“As far as I know this partnership between BSU CTE and Rex will help the teachers and the students to develop their skills as far as OBE’s concerned because the main focus of Rex in the writing of their books specifically is outcomes-based, so yung format nila outcomes-based, so matututo na talaga ang faculty atsaka students. Besides one output of the MOA is to provide seminars on outcomesbased teaching and the making of instructional materials, kaya swak na swak siya” said Imelda Parcasio, CTE faculty.

Yango revealed that the future plans for this partnership

are till ongoing.

“There are plans to also come up with materials in some fields that are not available in our bookstores like what they’ve mentioned: Veterinary Medicine, some books there are unavailable and so with the other major fields, for instance, is the Childhood Education,” said Dr. Yango.

Rex Education has proposed incorporating Cordillera culture into its books and has identified a need for the revision of the university’s current course materials.

Student Scholarships

The partnership also included the possibility of opening scholarship opportunities for students.

“I think this partnership will surelly be benecial to BSUCTE because we’re not just dealing with the publication of books or the improvement of pedagogies. It is true that these partnerships all boil down to the students, but such scholarship will definitely help students in their studies. However, despite the potential benefits, the partnership faces challenges, such as the willingness of teachers to contribute to Rex’s books, as some have already published with other companies. However, both parties remain committed to finding ways to collaborate effectively and improve the quality of education at BSU

BSU-CHET students conduct donation drive for Bontoc fire victims

JUDY-ANN CAMILLE C. VIZCARA

April 13, 2023, Benguet State University - BS in Hospitality Management students conduct a donation drive following the fire incident at Poblacion, Bontoc.

Due to the unforeseen fire incident, 55 families lost their homes causing the officials and community of Poblacion, Bontoc to conduct a wide-scale

donation drive including the BSU-CHET students.

Aubrey L. Keeg, 3rd year BSHM student, led the donation drive in BSU with

the assistance of the College of Home Economics and Technology - Supreme Student Government and AAHRMEIJunior Associate Member.

“Ang original plan is saamin lang na magbabatch but then one of my classmates ask yung taga SSG na kung pwede we ask help from them and they willingly said yes. After that nag hanap kami ng mga personel sa Poblacion na pwedeng magreceive ng donation and assigned people who will receive the cash and materials,” said Keeg.

Through Facebook posts concerning the purpose of the donation and what donation they accept such as cash, clothes, blankets, baby stuffs and other necessities. It

also includes, who to send the cash via Gcash and where to send the materials.

According to Aubrey, disseminating information through social media platforms was the best way to attract donors. “So far sa monetary is konti palang and more on clothes yung mga narereceive pa namen assorted ones”, she expressed as they continue to welcome more donations.

CHET-SSG and AJAM also coordinated in updating students. They also came up with another way to share the donation drive.

“Ung mga paraan namin is ung pagshare nung post tapos word of mouth kasi pag may nakikita kami na kakilala namin ket binabanggit

namin ung about sa donation drive,” said Ynah Natasha Inso, CHET-SSG Auditor.

On April 21, 2023, the accumulated donations will be sent to Mr. Ran Jayle Dulay, Mr. Lang-ay 2023. The assorted clothes and other products will be sent via Rising Sun Bus while the cash will be directly sent through the bank account. Meanwhile, the wide-scale donation drive in Poblacion has accumulated cash donations of more than Php 4 million. There are also materials donated by Neighbory Women’s Purok 2, La Trinidad,

LGU Bauko, Talubin Calvary-Church and others.

A FIVE-YEAR ALLIANCE. Benguet State University (BSU) President Felipe Comila, and VPAA Samuel Poliden with Rex Education Representatives sales Managers Marianne Suclad and Noel Cruz signs Outcome-based Education partnership. Photo by Baguio Midland Courier

BONTOC RISING. Ms. Mountain Province 2023 leads the charge in giving back to the community, spearheading a donation drive for the victims of the devastating fire in Bontoc. Photo by Samantha YS

Facts unveiling truths

BSU-CTE and CBSUA collaborate for Local Student Exchange Program

FEBRUARY 20, 2023. Benguet State University-College of Teacher Education (BSU-CTE) partners with The Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) for the first time, enabling students from both universities to participate in an educational exchange program. The partnership aims to foster cultural exchange and provide students with valuable learning experiences beyond their home campuses.

Four students from BSU participated in the BSUCBSUA partnership for the exchange internship. The students from BSU who are sent for the internship are Mr. Joshua Leo Andaya from BSEd Mathematics, Ben Gomez of BSEd Filipino, Jensen Paris of BSEd English, and Mr. Brix Lambert Yagyagen from BSEd Science.

While the four students from CBSUA are Mr. Jay C. Reburiano of BSEd Filipino, MS. Angela M. Mien of BSEd Science, Ms. Jessa C. Tipones

of BSEd Mathematics, and Ms. Nica Claire A. Rañada of BSEd English. The students from CBSUA are currently having their internship at BSUSecondary Laboratory School.

According to Mrs. Dolores Alawas, the spokesperson under the College of Teacher Education who accompanied the four CTE students to Bicol, Benguet State University and the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture came up with an agreement on the internship by the initiation of the CBSUA.

BSU partners with SEAMEO

CBSUA visited BSU, and after some continuous visitation and exploration, CBSUA offered BSU the possibility of partnership, especially for the CTE students, since CBSUA also offered Secondary Education courses.

“Before BSU agreed to the partnership that CBSUA is offering, they had a lot of formal meetings first and ongoing discussions between the two deans of the universities, and in December 2022, they finally signed the Memorandum of Agreement for the Exchange Internship of the students,” added Mrs. Alawas.

The partnership brings a lot of benefits to the university and the students as well with the primary benefit of having linkages to other schools, especially on local partnerships in the form of

Teacher Student Exchange Summit Meeting at the Avani Hotel in Bangkok for the signing of a letter of agreement for the 9th batch of the SEA international student exchange program and to identify international institutions for future partnership.

exchange students or interns. The said internship will help interns to adapt to other cultures besides the Cordilleran cultures.

“Overall, it was great and enriching as I’ve come to deal with people of other language and culture. The new environment created an

avenue for me to create a new perspective on what really is my philosophy in education. This really helped me find my own strategy in imparting knowledge and wisdom to the students. Privileged!” expressed Jhosua Leo Andaya, intern from BSU.

The purpose of the SEA-Teacher Student Exchange Summit was to share and learn about the initiatives and innovative approaches of the pre-service student-teacher exchange, implemented by institutions during the COVID-19 pandemic; to discuss and plan for the 9th batch of pre-service student exchange; to seek commitments

from participating institutions in the implementation of the 9th batch of the SEATeacher Project in the middle of 2023; and to establish and strengthen partnerships among participating institutions.

On March 20–21, 2023, Dr. Divina M. Yango, the dean of the college of teacher education, traveled to Thailand to attend the SEA-

The partnership is essential in attaining one of the requirements of the state university in terms of State Universities and Colleges (SUC) leveling. Currently, BSU is at SUC level IV, and to be able to reach level V, they are encouraged to have international mobility.

"Whenever we are accredited, one of the items

they look for is our own international linkages, and to be able to attain level V of SUC leveling, we have to have a lot of international nobilities, meaning we have foreign students and our students are going abroad for studies, research, or other things," says Dr. Dolores Alawas, the department chairperson of the College of Teacher Education.

Through the SEATeacher Project, pre-service student teachers in the future are set to develop their teaching skills and pedagogy, encourage the practice of English skills, gain a broader regional and world view, and be exposed to diverse teaching and learning situations and opportunities, as

well as the value of flexibility. "The international partnership will also help students to explore the world, experience different cultures not only locally but internationally, so that they will be able to apply the knowledge gained and be able to adjust their skills to different cultures, which could contribute to their success", said Dr. Yango. For the mean time, the university is waiting for the follow-up on the signed agreement. However, there is one school and three possible international universities which were determined for future partnerships.

Benguet State University (BSU) has forged a new partnership with the Southeast Asian Ministers of Education Organization (SEAMEO) for the implementation of the 9th batch of the SEA-Teacher Project in 2023, during the SEATeacher Student Exchange Summit held on March 22, 2023, in Bangkok, Thailand.

A WARM WELCOME. Ben B. Gomez,Jr, Brix Lambhert A. Yagyagen, Jensen F. Paris, and Jhosua Leo T. Andaya are joined by the esteemed faculty and administrators in a welcome ceremony at Central Bicol State University of Agriculture.

Photo by CBSUA PIO

A NEW TEACHING EXPERIENCE. Interns from CBSUA get ready for a valuable exchange of knowledge and experience.

Photo by CBSUA

La Trinidad, Benguet, Cordillera Administrative Region

ANGEL O. PANGDEW

JENNYFER O. SENICA

Benguet, a province located in the Cordillera Administrative Region of the Philippines, is known for its beautiful mountains, scenic landscapes, and thriving agricultural industry. However, climate change is affecting the province's natural resources, ecosystems, and people. The changing weather patterns are causing droughts, floods, and landslides, which are affecting the province's agriculture, forestry, and water resources. These impacts not only damage the environment but also affect the health and livelihoods of the people who depend on them.

This year, the Philippines and Benguet experienced significant changes in temperature, which further exacerbate the impacts of climate change. According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), several regions in the country experienced record-high temperatures, with the highest temperature recorded in General Santos City at 38.5 degrees Celsius. These high temperatures are affecting the country's food security, water resources, and public health. In Benguet, the changing temperature patterns affected the flowering and fruiting of crops, leading to lower yields and income for farmers.

Addressing climate change requires collective action and global cooperation. The Philippine government has taken steps to mitigate the effects of climate change through the Climate Change Act and the National Climate Change Action Plan. The Climate Change Act mandates the creation of a framework for local governments and agencies to address climate change and establishes the Climate Change Commission to coordinate climate change initiatives. The National Climate Change Action Plan outlines the strategies, programs, and projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote adaptation and mitigation measures. However, more needs to be done to enforce these policies and ensure that they are implemented effectively.

Individuals and communities can also take action by reducing their carbon emissions, promoting sustainable practices, and supporting policies that prioritize environmental protection. For example, individuals can use public transportation, walk or bike instead of driving, reduce their energy consumption, and support renewable energy sources. Communities can establish recycling programs, promote sustainable agriculture, and participate in reforestation projects.

The Oracle

The Oracle is a renowned publication with a base in La Trinidad, Benguet, and is committed to giving its readers news and information that is timely, pertinent, and insightful. The Oracle strives to be the go-to source for regional news, events, and happenings while also covering national and international news that may be of interest to its readership. The publication is dedicated to the highest standards of journalism. The publication aims to act as a forum for discussion and engagement, encouraging openness, responsibility, and civic engagement. The Oracle strives to be a reliable source of information for its readers, enabling them to make informed decisions and stay current on the issues that matter most. This is done by putting a focus on highquality reporting and investigative journalism.

Editorial Board Jennyfer Senica Editor-in-Chief Johnrel Balaodan |

Nikko Bryll Mablay Associate Editors

Vizcara

Farmer Extremeheat

CREDITS

The writers' views, ideas, and opinions presented in this newspaper are those of the authors' and do not necessarily reflect the publication as a whole.

The photos and graphics published in this issue including the characters and people involved are sourced out from open access under creative commons license and social media accounts of involved parties.

Climate change is a global crisis that affects every corner of the world, including the Philippines and Benguet. The Philippines is a country located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, which is a region that experiences a high level of seismic and volcanic activity, making it more susceptible to natural disasters. Unfortunately, the effects of climate change exacerbate these risks, resulting in rising sea levels, more frequent and severe weather events, extreme level of heat, and extended periods of drought. Therefore, it is critical to understand and address the challenges associated with climate change to mitigate its impacts and protect vulnerable communities.

The Unveiler Valentine's day: The Waning of a Once-loved Holiday

Johnrel R. Balaodan johnrelnadoalab@gmail.com

Reds are starting to pop up along with roses and chocolates including promos from different product brands. Seemingly, it is exciting that the ‘love vibe’ is coming for its day of recognition. However, if we trace from its history, the true meaning of Valentine’s Day has long been gone and it’s now the misconceptions that define it.

Valentine’s Day was once a day of love and affection, where couples celebrated their bond with simple gestures and acts of kindness, but now, it has been marred by sexual expectations, commercialization, immaturity, and misplaced significance, especially among the youth. The true meaning of Valentine’s Day has been lost in the shuffle, and it’s time to rediscover what this holiday is truly about - celebrating love, in all its forms.

A lot of people think that Valentine’s Day is only for lovers. This led the current generation to use ‘being in a relationship’ as a race wherein

those who get into it, think that they have the lead while the single ones are outcasted. It became a status that should be carried around and seen by everyone –disregarding the fact that Valentines is not only for those in a relationship but also for those who are not.

Moreover, today’s Valentine’s Day provides a more emphasis on sex. People think that engaging in sexual activity on Valentine’s Day is a gift or a way to show love. This conception is negative for it reinforces harmful societal norms and reinforces the notion of women as objects for sexual pleasure. It undermines the importance of healthy

communication, consent, and emotional connection in relationships.

On the other hand, the pressure to give gifts, chocolates, and flowers has turned Valentine’s Day into a mandate for materialistic love. Men are expected to show their love and affection through grand gestures and gifts, while women are expected to sit back and receive them.

Lovers are equal; both should exert efforts -not the other way around. It is saddening to see people getting fooled by the concept of materialistic gifts -seeing it as a proof for one’s love. As if like a mandate, you should give your lover a gift because it’s Valentines. This further reinforces gender stereotypes and creates an unbalanced dynamic in relationships. Giving gifts should come from the heart, with the desire to give, not from societal pressure

nor for the sake of appearing ‘thoughtful.’

and immaturity destroys the very foundation of love and the essence of Valentine’s Day.

Immaturity also plays a big role in ruining Valentine’s Day, with many people, especially the single ones, expressing their dislike for the holiday. They dress in all black, calling it bitter and overrated by spreading negativity and cynicism on social media. Imagine, you are out in a dinner with you special one and you hear “magbe-break din kayo.” This lack of support

The Unfazed Brave Confessions

Nikko Bryll Mablay mablaynikko@gmail.com

Have you ever imagine yourself confessing to the person you like? It's like walking in a path of uncertainty. You don't know how the other person's gonna feel, but it highlights one's bravery to even say it.

Confessions, why do we do them? What is the driving force that pushes us to speak our inner feelings? Are we not just fooling ourselves by trying to make ourselves the main character in a drama series where their confessions are accepted? We hurt ourselves thinking that we have a chance at it but chances are, we end up being rejected and yet, we still do it.

Confessing feelings does not require both people to have feelings for each other to be able to confess their emotions . There is no need to have mutual feelings between the two for one to confess the romantic feelings they have.

“Sorry pero hanggang friends lang tayo,” is the common response to a

romantic confession.

You would be lucky if the feelings are reciprocated, but getting rejected is not a bad thing. It can be the start of new things like friendships maybe?

I have experienced confessing to someone I have a crush on when I was in grade 8, and we ended up being friends.

He did not push me away or anything. We would often look back and laugh at my confession and his rejection of it.

You can confess in many ways. It can be simple like sending a text message. It can also be fancy like writing a love letter on scented stationeries. But one of the best ways to confess is to directly tell that someone in person how you feel towards them, may it be love

or crush. If you get rejected, then at least there won’t be any proof or evidence that you were rejected. But does it really matter? I believe it is not really necessary to be fancy unless you have the budget or the resources, then you can go all out. To me, I believe that what matters is that the message was clearly delivered, and to get the point across.

Not everyone can make a love confession though. It takes bravery. To be brave, one must set aside their fears and be a forward person. One should be upfront and honest, but still, find the right time to do the confession as one may look desperate if that person just does it at a bad timing.

To be brave in confessing , we should not assume rejection. If you assume rejection even before confessing, then why do the confession then? If you try to hide your feelings, it will hurt

To be brave in confessing , we should not assume rejection. If you assume rejection even before confessing, then why do the confession then? If you try to hide your feelings, it will hurt you even more.

you even more.

If you are a really shy person, then take your time. Do it at your own pace. I have tried setting aside my fears for

With this gradual decline on its value, it’s time that we re-evaluate our attitudes towards Valentine’s Day and restore its true meaning. Let’s celebrate love and affection every day by means of kindness, friendship, and family bond. Let us support each other. Let us teach ourselves to remember that there is more to life than being in a romantic relationship. Self-care and personal growth should be our primary focus during Valentine’s Day. Let us take time for ourselves, pursuing our passions and hobbies, and focusing on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. By prioritizing self-care and personal growth, we can build resilience and develop a stronger sense of self-worth, which will serve us well in all aspects of our lives.

once and confessed to a friend. I feel accomplished after doing so, even if I got rejected. The pain followed afterwards, but we should not be afraid of the pain.

We should not be afraid of rejection. Instead, we should learn from it. Try to use the experience to better ourselves. It is just a rejection of your feelings, and not a rejection of your entirety..

We may be or not be certain about the results it may bring but we still confess. Even if we are bound to lose a friend or be pushed away by that special someone.

If you bravely made the love confession and still got rejected in the end, then still be proud that you were able muster the courage and bravery to make that confession. Be brave and confess that feeling. It is better to make that love confession rather than keeping it within, right?

Men are expected to show their love and affection through grand gestures and gifts, while women are expected to sit back and receive them.

The role of social media in

shaping public opinion

Daisylyn B. Contada contadadaisy21@gmail.com

Social media has revolutionized the way people communicate, access information, and interact with each other.

It has become a powerful tool for individuals and groups to share their views and opinions with the world, leading to a significant impact on public opinion. However, social media's role in shaping public opinion has been a topic of debate, with some arguing that it has a positive influence, while others see it as a negative force.

Social media has allowed individuals to express their opinions and share information with a wide audience, regardless of their location or social status. This has led to increased awareness and understanding of social and political issues, as well as opportunities for people to engage in discussions and debates on a variety of topics. Social media has also given a voice to marginalized groups, enabling them to challenge dominant narratives and advocate for their rights.

However, the negative impact of social media on

public opinion cannot be overlooked. The rise of fake news and misinformation has led to widespread confusion and mistrust, making it difficult for people to make informed decisions.

Social media algorithms also tend to reinforce users' pre-existing beliefs and biases, leading to the creation of echo chambers and filter bubbles. This can lead to the polarization of public opinion and make it challenging for individuals to engage in constructive dialogue with those who hold different views.

Moreover, social media has been used as a tool for spreading hate speech, inciting

violence, and promoting extremist ideologies. The anonymity provided by social

media has made it easier for individuals to engage in these activities without facing consequences. This has led to concerns about the impact of social media on social cohesion and the potential for it to be used as a tool for manipulating public opinion.

During the election, a lot of false information were perpetuated accross social media platforms about Leni Robredo while whitewashing our history under Marcos' Administration. This led the public being fooled by such social media posts further constituting to the feud between the reds and pinks.

These ideologies that took over the social media during the election manipulated the minds of those who knew nothing about our history.

Another is the case of Mia Magdalena who was attacked online by Padawi

following her post on the Social media platform companies should strictly control the content that is shared there. This duty includes creating and implementing procedures that safeguard users against harmful and deceptive information. Through this way, thhe spread of false information could be neutralized.

While respecting the right to free speech is important, it is also crucial to make sure that any information shared on social media platforms is accurate and trustworthy.

In the end, how social media is utilized will determine its influence on public opinion. Although it has the potential to be an effective tool for positive change, it also has the potential to spread false information and strengthen preexisting biases. And when that happens, we can only expect the bad things that could happen.

memes: not funny if it talks about women

Judy-Ann

Memes have become an integral part of internet culture, used to convey humor and express opinions on a wide range of topics. However, in recent years, there has been growing concern about how memes are being used to sexualize women. While some may argue that memes are harmless fun, the reality is that they can have a significant impact on how women are perceived and treated.

Memes can be funny and entertaining, but not when women are involved. Unfortunately, the digital world does not seem to realize this.

Memes that involve women frequently perpetuate harmful stereotypes and reaffirm traditional gender roles. For instance, a significant number of memes portray women in a manner that suggests they are merely objects of male lust. This lends credence to the notion that women are only around for the sake of men's enjoyment.

It also contributes to the perpetuation of a patriarchal worldview in which men have the right to use women's bodies and in which a woman's value

is based on her attractiveness to men sexually.

You may have seen the issue on Anthony Leodones who posted a meme showing a sexy woman on a kayak and a picture of his girlfriend who looks distressed with a caption: INORDER KO VS. DUMATING SAKIN!

This meme has sparked an online debate and a lot of netizens called him out for body shaming his girlfirend.

What's Ironic though, is that his girlfriend defended him claiming that Anthony's meme was referring to his expectation regarding the kayak experience. However, the picture he posted speaks more to women concerning body shape. Could this be another reason

why his girlfriend underwent surgery to become slim?

Another popular meme is the Distrcted Man Meme which shows a man looking at a woman while his girlfriend shows a face of shock and anger. This meme reinforces sexist stereotype as it displays the woman being objectified and the man is being unfaithful to his girlfriend. It further demonstrates how one's look can be a cause of men's desire.

A further cause for concern is the potential influence that these memes can have on younger generations. Memes are shared with young people at an early age, and many of them may be too young to comprehend the potentially damaging messages that they convey. This can lead to the normalization of behavior towards women that is objectifying and degrading, which can have long-term consequences for the attitudes and behaviors of women.

Memes are not merely innocent forms of

entertainment. They have the potential to influence how people think of and interact with women, contributing to the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes and unequal treatment of the sexes.

It is important for us to call out and challenge memes that sexualize women and to work toward the creation of a culture that values women for more than their physical appearance and their sexual desirability. Let us not stand for women's objectificattion, instead let us stand against them.

It can be challenging to shift our societal attitudes, especially when they have been imprinted in our culture for many years. However, with persistence and dedication, we can make efforts towards freeing women from sexism and inequality. Let us work towards eradicating sexism, body shaming, and inequality to ensure a fairer, more equitable society for all.

"

Social media algorithms also tend to reinforce users' pre-existing beliefs and biases, leading to the creation of echo chambers and filter bubbles. This can lead to the polarization of public opinion and make it challenging for individuals to engage in constructive dialogue with those who hold different views.

"

Memes are shared with young people at an early age, and many of them may be too young to comprehend the potentially damaging messages that they convey. This can lead to the normalization of behavior towards women that is objectifying and degrading, which can have long-term consequences for the attitudes and behaviors of women.

Camille C. Vizcara vizcara.judyanncamille21@gmail.com

The Luminary Don't Fall Prey To Social Comparison

Angel O. Pangdew pangdew.angel18@gmail.com

Social comparison is a natural instinct that almost all students engage in from time to time. They compare themselves to others to gauge their success, measure their abilities, and even determine their worth. While this kind of comparison can be beneficial in certain instances, it can also be harmful to their mental health. It can lead to feelings of envy, resentment, and insecurity, which can have a negative impact on our well-being.

Personally, I find it challenging to refrain from making unfavorable societal comparisons. I am constantly surrounded by my peers, and it can be easy to start comparing myself to them in terms of grades, accomplishments, and even social status.

Social comparison theory states that we do this in an effort to accurately assess our own worth. However, by using 3S strategies, we can learn how to avoid the trap of social comparison and develop into our best selves.

Fostering Healthy Self-Esteem

The key to strong self-esteem is developing an

internal sense of value. Studies have shown that the ability to make decisions for oneself, accept responsibility for one's life, and learn about oneself in order to make positive changes are all factors that contribute to one's feeling of self-worth.

We must be aware of our own upsides and downsides and concentrate more on what we can do than what we cannot. We will be able to increase our self-esteem and confidence by learning to accept and embrace our shortcomings.

Practicing Self-Compassion

We need to constantly remind ourselves that everyone faces different difficulties. We can also work on forgiving

ourselves and accepting that failures are a necessary part of learning. Let's prioritize selfcare and spend time engaging in positive activities.

We can avoid the comparison trap by taking a break from social media and limiting our exposure to endless stories of other people's accomplishments.

We can also put our attention on our own ambitions and goals and discover ways to acknowledge and appreciate every achievement, no matter how small.

Positive Self-Talk

How often do we feel good about ourselves? Did we have any time to think about ourselves? I personally don't think about what other people think of me or how I measure up to them. Instead, I focus on positive things about myself and my accomplishments. By taking the time to acknowledge and value our individual skills

and talents, we can begin to develop positive self-talk.

The use of affirmations, such as "I am strong and capable," "I have the power to achieve my goals," "I am deserving of love and respect," "I can overcome any obstacle," "I am unique and distinctive," and "I am enough," is also beneficial to us in avoiding social comparison.

Indeed, comparing ourselves to others can be detrimental to our mental health and overall well-being. It’s important to recognize the signs of social comparison and take steps to shift our focus away from it.

To avoid social comparison, it's important to cultivate a strong sense of self-worth, engage in selfcompassion, and keep a positive outlook on life. Most importantly, we become more appreciative of who we are when we learn to love ourselves.

The use of affirmations, such as "I am strong and capable," "I have the power to achieve my goals," "I am deserving of love and respect," "I can overcome any obstacle," "I am unique and distinctive," and "I am enough," is also beneficial to us in avoiding social comparison.

Avoiding social comparison can be difficult, but with the right strategies, we can learn how to not fall prey to social comparison and become the best version of ourselves.

Dual Me Online Hate, Real-life Violence

Ryalin Libelo libelo.rya11@gmail.com

The rise of the digital world has given us a tremendous amount of possibilities. From letters, we can now send messages from accross the globe. Online communication has brought the world closer with just one tap. However, as we advance in the digital world, we are faced by its adversities on how it could be detrimental in perpetuating hate speech, conflict, and violence that often end up in the real world.

In today's society, online hate and real-life violence are becoming increasingly intertwined. With the rise of social media and the internet, it has become easier than ever for people to spread hateful messages and ideologies without any repercussions.

Unfortunately, this has led to an increase in real-life violence as well, as those who are exposed to these messages can become radicalized and act out violently in the real world.

This is a troubling trend that needs to be addressed, as it can have serious consequences for both individuals and society as a whole. This is a concerning tendency that must be addressed since it has major

implications for both people and society as a whole.

Online hate includes anything from racist or sexist comments to threats of violence. Unfortunately, these types of messages are becoming increasingly common on the internet, and they can have a profound impact on those who are exposed to them. Not only can they lead to feelings of anger and hatred, but they can also lead to real-life violence.

A study conducted by the Anti-Defamation League found that online hate speech can lead to real-world violence, particularly against members of minority groups.

The study also found that online hate speech can

These types of messages are becoming increasingly common on the internet, and they can have a profound impact on those who are exposed to them. Not only can they lead to feelings of anger and hatred, but they can also lead to real-life violence.

lead to a sense of alienation among those who are targeted, leading them to feel isolated and vulnerable. This can, in turn, lead to an increase in realworld violence, as those who feel isolated and vulnerable may be more likely to lash out violently.

"When someone is exposed to online hate, they can become radicalized and begin to believe that violence is the only way to address the issues they are facing. This can lead to them engaging in violent behavior in the real world, such as committing acts of terror or engaging in hate crimes. This type of behavior is especially dangerous because it can lead to innocent people being hurt or killed, and it can also lead to a further escalation of violence.

In order to prevent online hate from leading to real-life violence, it is important to address the root causes of the problem. This means recognizing the underlying issues that can lead to people feeling marginalized or oppressed and taking steps to address them.

Additionally, it is important to take a firm stance against online hate and to ensure that those who engage in it are held accountable

for their actions. Finally, it is important to provide support for those who have been exposed to online hate, as it can have a profound impact on their mental health and wellbeing.

Overall, online hatred and real-world violence are becoming increasingly intertwined. It is critical to recognize the link between the two and take action to prevent online hatred from escalating into real-life violence.

Addressing the underlying causes of the problem, taking a firm stance against online hatred, and providing support to people who have been exposed to it are all examples of this. By doing so, we may contribute to a more secure and accepting community.

As netizens, we should only be taking advantage to its positive cause. Let us not create a feud online and destroy a friendship that could last for years.

Wonderer Chismis

Vs. journalism: which would you choose?

The Philippines is a democratic country that upholds the fundamental human right of freedom of expression. However, some individuals abuse this right by engaging in harmful gossip or "chismis" that can damage people's reputations. Today, chismis remains a significant obstacle to responsible journalism. Hence, we should stop this and promote the reliance on unbiased information to prevent the spread of harmful gossip.

Everywhere I go, I see many people doing whatever they want; they enjoy their freedom. Free to express their opinions and who they really are, I, as a citizen of the Philippines, also enjoy my freedom to speak what’s running on my mind and do what I want to do. The Philippines is a democratic country where everyone is free to express their opinions and do what they want as long as it is not against the law and they are not doing something that can harm others.

Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right that allows people to express

their thoughts and opinions without fear of persecution or censorship. However, this right has its limitations, and when it is abused, it can have severe consequences.

In the Philippines, people are free to express their opinions, as long as they do not violate the law or harm others. Unfortunately, some individuals take this freedom too far, leading to harmful gossiping that destroys people's reputations.

Gossiping or "chismis" has become a common pastime for many Filipinos. While it may seem harmless at first, when it goes too far, it can lead

to serious consequences. The government has recognized this problem and passed laws that punish people who engage in harmful gossiping. This is a step in the right direction, as it helps to protect people's reputations and prevent the spread of false information.

However, chismis is not only a threat to individuals' reputations, but it is also becoming a significant obstacle for journalism. In a battle between a "chismosa" spreading fake news and a journalist reporting accurate information, the former often wins. This is because gossip is more entertaining and relatable than the news, which can be dry and uninteresting to some.

Unfortunately, this has led to a situation where people are more willing to believe a chismis than to verify facts from a journalist.

This problem is compounded by social media,

which has become a breeding ground for fake news and harmful gossip. One post by a chismosa can quickly become viral, leading to thousands of comments and reactions.

Meanwhile, a journalist's article on a critical issue can go unnoticed and forgotten. This situation is alarming, as it shows that people are more interested in gossip than in important news that affects their lives.

This situation is

becoming very alarming. Especially on how most people would rather get engaged in other people’s lives, but they do not care about serious situations. At this moment, chismis is becoming the news, and the news is becoming fake news.

As a society, we need to recognize the harm caused by chismis and take steps to prevent it from becoming the norm. We must encourage people to verify information before believing it and to rely on credible news sources rather than anonymous individuals on social media.

We should also promote responsible journalism that provides accurate and unbiased information. By doing so, we can help to prevent the spread of harmful gossip and ensure that our society remains informed and engaged in important issues.

Making the decision to shift courses can be daunting, especially when you've already invested a lot of time and effort into your current path. However, for some college students, it can be difficult to shake off the feeling of uncertainty and doubt. Peer pressure, parental expectations, and financial concerns can all play a role in the decision to switch gears. But as a third-year college student who never regretted staying the course, I urge my fellow students to resist the temptation of taking the U-turn. By staying committed to your original ambition, you not only save time but also stay focused on your goals, even in the face of setbacks.

At a reunion with my high school buddies, we discussed the difficulties of being a college student. "Di ko alam kung ba’t pa ako nasa course ko, gusto kong magshift pero sayang yung napag-aralan ko " one of my classmates said. We can't undo what we've done in terms of the courses we've taken, because after all, we've already gone a long way. Some change courses because it wasn't really their choice in the first place, but a choice made by their parents; they may have felt as if their courses were out of date; not realistic in the eyes of others; not a moneymaking

career; and peer pressure may have influenced their decision.

It is true that shifting courses due to back subjects is difficult; it is especially difficult if your initial course subjects were not even close to each other. Shifting may be an option for second-year students because they will have doubts, but with courage, everything will be alright. And for first-year students, it is the ideal moment to think and assess whether or not they want to continue their courses. However, for us third years we only have a year left in college so why halt, and why not just continue?

As a third-year college student, I have never regretted staying with the courses I am taking. I may have had some reservations, but after interacting with my classmates, I realized that the path I chose wasn't so bad after all. In comparison to previous years of college, this year is most likely the most difficult. However, I believe it is more enjoyable than being trapped in our homes because of the pandemic Schoolwork piles up quickly.

However, I am more driven to finish what I started since I did not take the U-Turn. I said to myself: “You need an immense amount of courage to stay in the course and struggle even when you are almost ready to give up on life, so take courage and don’t let go until you win”

The advantage of remaining in your selected course is that you spend less time considering which course

is easier because there is no easier course. It also directs you toward your goal. You will not have to abandon your original ambition because of certain setbacks. When you shift, there will be another period of adjustment because of the new environment is not necessarily a terrible thing.

Start by visualizing yourself in the future, several years from now, and ask yourself if your current course will lead you to the future that

you want. Envision the skills that you think you’ll have in the future. Do you feel that your current course is preparing you with the necessary tools to achieve your career goals? If not, it may be time to consider a different course.

Evaluate yourself, and take time to reflect on your interests, values, and strengths. Consider your passions, the things that bring you joy and fulfillment, and how they align with your career goals. Consider your values and beliefs in life. Does the career you envision align with your personal values and beliefs?

While it is vital to take your time to assess your options, it is also critical to consider the timeline. Time is a valuable resource, and it is crucial to use it wisely. Falling behind can make it harder to catch up, so it is essential to consider the demands of time and make sensible decisions.

"

Chismis is not only a threat to individuals' reputations, but it is also becoming a significant obstacle for journalism.

"

You need an immense amount of courage to stay in the course and struggle even when you are almost ready to give up on life, so take courage and don’t let go until you win.

Jennyfer O. Senica senicajennyfer@gmail.com

The Verity straight ahead. no u turns

Gherlie Embernate gherlieembernate8@gmail.com

CANVA: The Revolution of the Graphic Design Industry

The importance of visual content to both businesses and consumers has grown in the modern digital age. Today, graphic design is essential in everything from social media posts to promotional materials because of its ability to grab people's attention and convey information clearly. However, not everyone possesses the proficiency or means to hire someone from the professional world. That's where Canva comes in, the gamechanging graphic design platform that revolutionized the industry of graphic design.

Canva was established in 2012 by Melanie Perkins, Cliff Obrecht, and Cameron Adams in Sydney, Australia. The site was developed with the intention of extending access to design to the masses. Canva has since expanded into a global powerhouse, serving more than 50 million users across 190 countries at a valuation of over $40 billion.

Canva's intuitive interface is one of its most unique features. It is a free, user-friendly alternative to more complex graphic design programs like Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, or Illustrator. In fact, even those

who do not have knowledge of graphic design can select from a range of premade templates and then simply drag-anddrop elements to personalize their creations. It’s that easy.

Canva stands out from the crowd thanks to its extensive collection of premade layouts, photos, and other graphics. Users can access over a million templates for use in everything like social media posts, presentations, flyers, and other promotional materials. You can also access thousands of stock images, illustrations, and icons that can simplify the process of finding and using visual elements in user designs.

If you avail of the pro version, your access to these graphic materials can be limitless! Imagine what you can do with just PHP 399 pro account. Should you want to pay a cheaper price, you can avail an educational account on Shopee which could range from 80-120 pesos.

Canva also lets you choose from several different export options, such as file formats and sharing services. Designs can be exported as PDFs, PNGs, or JPGs, or shared directly to services like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter with minimal effort. You do not even have

to export them to your files before uploading because you can now choose to schedule your post on any social media platform that you want. It’s that easy!

Canva has had a profound effect on the design industry by making design software accessible to anyone with an internet connection. Its

accessibility, extensive library of templates and graphics, collaborative tools, and export options have made it a popular choice for users across industries and educational levels. Canva is expanding and improving rapidly, and that means it will continue to disrupt the graphic design industry for years to come.

Liquid 3: A Game-changing Innovation

purpose and improve the quality of life. However, Ivan Spasojević, one of the project's developers, believes in the potential of the idea and plans to expand the use of microalgae in Serbia.

This innovation can function like three trees combined. Plus, it takes lesser space compared to a real tree. In a report by Envirotech, the microalgae of the Liquid 3 can effectively lock carbon dioxide emissions 10-15 times higher than regular trees.

Liquid 3 is a unique instrument in Belgrade's fight against dirty air. It is the country's first urban photo-bioreactor, a solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. It holds 600 liters of water and employs microalgae to bind carbon dioxide and produces pure oxygen via photosynthesis –like a real tree, but even better. And, such innovation holds great potential in the Philippines, particularly in solving air pollution.

The Institute for Multidisciplinary Research at the University of Belgrade created Liquid 3, a cuttingedge urban photobioreactor. This innovative design effectively removes carbon dioxide while generating oxygen, and biomass, offering a different long-term strategy for greening urban landscapes

with constrained space and high pollution.

Liquid 3 is Serbia's first urban photobioreactor, and it's situated in the heavily polluted metropolis of Belgrade. It can bind carbon dioxide and use photosynthesis to create pure oxygen, which makes it a potential solution to the city's air pollution problem.

The institute made use of single-celled freshwater algae that can withstand extremes in temperature and grows naturally in Serbian ponds and lakes. Currently, the prototype requires about 60 euros per month in maintenance.

Liquid 3 is not a replacement for city trees as they serve a crucial social

Now, such innovation as the "liquid tree," presents an opportunity for the Philippines to address one of its most pressing environmental issues: air pollution. The country has been struggling with this problem for many years, with pollution levels exceeding the acceptable limit set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The situation has become dire, and the effects of air pollution on the ecosystem and the health of the people have been alarming.

The Liquid 3 project could be a game-changer for the country. By employing this technology, we could potentially reduce the number

of pollutants released into the air, ultimately contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment for Filipinos. Moreover, it has the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. By doing so, this project could help the Philippines to address the effects of climate change that are already being felt across the country, including more frequent and intense typhoons, sea-level rise, and crop damage. The benefits of the Liquid 3 project extend beyond just improving the environment and mitigating climate change. The use of microalgae in the project also has the potential to generate biomass and biofuel, create compost for green areas, and treat wastewater. These uses could provide additional benefits for the country, such as reducing waste and generating renewable energy.

If Philippines can fund such project like this, surely we can have fresher air in cities across the country.

RYALIN M. LIBELO

JUDY ANN CAMILLE C. VIZCARA

Photo by Newsweek

Working Mothers in the Limelight: Balancing Life between Family and Career

While career is essential for one's livelihood, providing employment and financial stability in the long run, it can be demanding, especially when one has other responsibilities to attend to. However, being an employee has its benefits, including social security, compensation, retirement plans, and life insurance. Life, on the other hand, refers to one's role outside of work. Achieving a successful life requires finding a balance between work and personal life. In Benguet State University (BSU), you only get to see how your instructors teach, but have you ever considered their experiences as working parents? This article aims to shed light on the challenges faced by working mothers as they strive to balance their career and family life.

Work-life balance, as defined by the Cambridge Dictionary, refers to the amount of time one spends working compared to the time spent with family and engaging in leisure activities. Workfamily conflict arises when work and family responsibilities become incompatible, leading to difficulties in meeting both demands. This conflict can be particularly challenging for mothers, who are often viewed as the primary breadwinners in the Philippines, leading to a rise in the number of mothers entering the labor force.

The study titled "Balancing Life: The Struggles of Working Mothers with Children 5 Years Old and Below" by Alima N. Bedejim, Kacy O. Labon, Rhea S. Loncio, and Ruth S. Batani interviewed 25 women employees of BSU, both permanent and nonpermanent, who have children aged zero to five years old. The study aimed to shed light on the challenges faced by working mothers in balancing their roles as both a parent and an employee.

As found by the study, mothers with children aged zero to five years old have frequent responsibilities as their children are highly dependent on them. Aside from breastfeeding, they require a lot of attention as they grow and develop. While having a

child brings joy and happiness, familial responsibilities double, leaving the work-life balance unbalanced.

“When my son was two years and my daughter is four years of age, I started studying. I enrolled BS Bio and attended school on Saturdays and full mom from Monday to Friday. With two kids to attend to, walang katapusan ang trabaho sa bahay. Sometimes, it makes me irritated kasi pagod ako sa monotous na household chores,” Elizabeth Dom-ogen said, Department of Biology, faculty member.

More concerns were uncovered:

Knots on time and assistance

Working mothers face challenges in managing their time as they juggle multiple roles as both a parent and an employee, leading to conflicts between their responsibilities. The research shows that working mothers spend around eight hours and 32 minutes on their job on average, leaving little time for personal responsibilities and self-care.

One significant impact of this time management challenge is the lack of sleep and rest, which can adversely affect their physical wellbeing. The study highlights that working mothers often do

not get enough rest, leading to exhaustion and stress that can carry over into the following day. This lack of rest can result in decreased productivity and lower work performance, creating a vicious cycle that further complicates their worklife balance.

“My biggest struggle is on how to budget my time to do all my chores as a mom, requirements as I am a graduate student, and do my job as an employee. I work from Monday to Friday, then sa Saturday, I go to school and I bring home my work and requirements kapag di ko natapos sa office,” Domogen added.

Unavailability of child care and assistance

Furthermore, the lack of child care and assistance was a problem. Due to issues of trust, quality care, and monetary obligations, parents find it difficult to find the right childcare for their children. The majority seek the assistance of relatives mothers, and grandmothers to care for their children without payment because they believe it is their right to watch over their grandchildren.

“I need to utilize my time wisely especially kasi online ang classes ngayon. Hindi rin ako masyadong nahihirapan kasi andito sina

mama at papa, may katulong ako sa pag-aalaga sa kanya (baby). Nabibigyan ko rin ng time iyong studies ko pati mga other priorities ko, kailangan lang talagang magmultitask. Yung difficulties ko lang ay kapag nagsabay ang responsibilities ko as a mother and as a student, if may exam ako at nagkasabay na gising siya, kailangan ko siyang unahin bago ko i-take yung exam ko. Hindi ko rin maiwasan na magduda sa sarili ko as a mother kasi mas nagiging malapit siya sa mga lagi niyang kasama,” said by Ana, not her real name, student-mother of BSU.

Remarkably, husbands also do child care; others rely on child minding centers and hire helpers to do household chores.

“If some of the household chores are not done, my husband finishes them kasi alam niya kung gaano kahirap mag-alaga ng bata; makukulit pa kaya nakakapagod pero masaya naman,” Dom-ogen shared.

In the event that the father and relatives are not present, mothers hire nannies, who are paid an average of Php2,000 to 5,000 per month. Those who use child care services, on the other hand, pay a monthly fee ranging from Php2,000 to Php4,000. Child

care facilities in La Trinidad, Benguet also provide tutorials and an opportunity for children to socialize with other children.

Feelings of guilt and doubts

Despite having the assurance of their children being taken care of, the majority (76%) of the mothers admitted having felt guilt and doubts. If something happens to their children, they end up blaming themselves for their lack of quality time and attention.

“Most of my time is spent on my work actually. Some of my family responsibilities were not done on time, others were delegated to the members of the family. I felt all the anxieties. The feeling of dissatisfaction was there because I want my work/ responsibilities to be excellent, but I cannot give my full time and attention to each task that I was supposed to do,” said a College of Teacher Education (CTE) faculty member.

Meanwhile, 24% of mothers were confident in their effectiveness as mothers despite their limitations. Those who are breadwinners of the family admitted that feeling guilty is not an option. They reasoned out that they would feel a lot guiltier if they cannot support their children and

JOHNREL R. BALAODAN

Photo by Pixabay

family.

Concerns about children’s upbringing

Consecutively, concerns about the child’s upbringing emerged. Their absence as mothers create a feeling of insecurity for their children may not be disciplined the way they want them to be. Some of the working mothers expressed that negative behaviors or attitudes toward their children were starting to manifest. Mothers thought that these behaviors were caused by them being away from work most of the time.

Mother-child relationship

The mother and child relationship is also affected. Their children get closer to the ones they mostly spend their time with which lets the mother end up being envious.

“The more a child spends time with a certain person, the tighter the bond they create. They behave differently, depending on their familiarity, comfort, and attachment. It is not impossible that a child gets closer to another person apart from his/ her mother. But that does not make the child closer to his/ her mother unless the child is adopted. On the second part, I cannot totally agree that a mother will get or should get

jealous because, at the end of the day, she would still be the one whom her child will look up to,” expressed Josielyn Tulio, Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSED) IV student.

To address this concern, mothers take every opportunity to spend quality time together to make up for their lack of time and assure that they are recognized and loved by their children.

Challenges on Marriage

Working mothers’ work setup does not just affect the mother-child relationship, but also their marriage. The majority of them unveiled that they do not have enough time with their husbands since they are tired from work. The study showed that this issue in marriage does exist. On the other hand, mothers make sure to spend quality time together with their families.

No proper time for self

When mothers were asked about their ‘me time’, it was not surprising that most of them put ‘the self’ at the bottom of their priorities. Only an average of two hours was allotted to themselves. This two-hour time includes preparing for work, changing

clothes, maintaining hygiene, and such. It is important to note that this does not include relaxation and that is done alongside other duties. In inclusion, almost all of the mothers work overtime during weekends and holidays which leaves almost no time for the family.

Work issues

Based on the research, another problem that stirs is work issues. Despite having supportive and understanding supervisors and co-workers, they still have hesitations when asking ‘favors’ such as work leave and tagging their children with them. Though most of the working mothers feel their contributions are valued by the university, some of them revealed that they are not mostly due to the lack of support and motivation they get from the university.

Work-life balance

Their struggles show that there is an unbalanced work-life. However, most of the working mothers denoted that they have a balanced work-life

while the rest stated otherwise. If their situations are to be assessed by ‘outsiders’, it would reveal that these mothers do not have a balanced work-life.

Intervention on Child care

Furthermore, the study suggested that a childminding center could help and lessen their struggles as working mothers in the university as it could be beneficial not just to them but to student mothers as well. However, some also reiterated that putting up a child minding center will only overlap interests.

“Since the College of Teacher Education has its own Early Childhood Development Center, I think it’s an overlapping interest if we will have another related center within the university. Hindi ba tuturuan ng magbabantay sa mga bata ang mga bata under their care? Kung babantayan lang nila without learning intervention, hindi ba sayang

lang ang time? And besides, 5-year-old children is part of the K-12 program. They are part of the basic education,” College of Teacher Education (CTE), faculty members.

Mothers, in nature, have multiple responsibilities that when overwhelmed, could result in multiple challenges as well. Clearly, there is a struggle when it comes to balancing life between family and career. Intervention should be applied to address if not, lessen the load of working mothers to attain work-life balance. Being an employee while taking care of a child is a difficult task. Even being away from your child creates uncertainties in the mind, at some point. A mother’s care is what a child needs. She will always know what is best for her child -much more than what a nanny does.

Photo by Vatsal Bhatt

Long john: Campus Bread of Life

This isn't your ordinary loaf of bread - it's a force to be reckoned with. Long John is a unique creation that combines the best of both worlds: a soft, fluffy interior and a crisp, golden-brown crust. It is made from a rich, sweet dough that is deep-fried until it becomes golden brown and crispy. The interior of the Long John is then filled with a creamy vanilla or chocolate custard, making it a sweet and satisfying treat that is perfect for any time of the day. It's a texture unlike anything you've ever tasted before, and it's guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds.

This isn't your ordinary loaf of bread - it's a force to be reckoned with. Long John is a unique creation that combines the best of both worlds: a soft, fluffy interior and a crisp, golden-brown crust. It is made from a rich, sweet dough that is deep-fried until it becomes golden brown and crispy. The interior of the Long John is then filled with a creamy vanilla or chocolate custard, making it a sweet and satisfying treat that is perfect for any time of the day. It's a texture unlike anything you've ever tasted before, and it's guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds. As you sink your teeth into a piece of Long John, you'll be transported to a world of flavor. The bread has a subtle sweetness that's perfectly balanced with a hint of salt, making it the perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes. Whether you're enjoying it with a smear of butter or using it as the base for a savory sandwich, Long John is sure to impress.

Biting into a Long John is like biting into a cloud. It's light and airy, yet still manages to be filling. The sweetness is just enough to make it enjoyable on its own, but not too overpowering that it can't be paired with other foods. It's no wonder that students, faculty, and staff alike can't get enough of it.

At the campus canteen, Long John is typically served as a standalone pastry or paired with a cup of coffee or tea. It is a popular breakfast or midmorning snack option for students and faculty. According to one of the canteen staff

munching on these long, cream-filled pastries as they hurry between classes. The canteen staff members are always busy, baking batch after batch to keep up with the demand.

But what is it about this simple bread that has made it such a mainstay of campus life? And why is it still so popular today?

The answer, perhaps surprisingly, lies in the long john bread's versatility. Whether you're looking for a quick breakfast on the go, a midday snack to power through classes, or a late-night study fuel, the long john bread has got you covered. Its soft, doughy texture and sweet, slightly glazed exterior make it the perfect complement to any meal, while its compact size and portability make it an ideal choice for busy students on the move.

Students love the convenience of being able to grab a Long John on the go, and its sweet and satisfying taste makes it the perfect pickme-up during a long day of classes.

But the Long John

and memories. One student shared, "I remember coming to the canteen with my friends and grabbing a Long John before class. It was the perfect way to start the day." Another faculty member recalled, "I used to love getting Long John as a midday snack. It was the perfect pick-me-up to get me through the rest of the day."

But what is it about the Long John that makes it so irresistible? Is it the crispy exterior that gives way to a creamy and sweet filling? Is it the convenience of being able to eat it on the go? Or is it simply the fact that it is a delicious treat that can brighten

the long john bread offers a convenient and satisfying option that's hard to beat. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual eater, there's no denying the power of the long john to brighten up even the dreariest of campus days.

So the next time you find yourself rushing

between classes or burning the midnight oil in the library, take a moment to appreciate the simple pleasures of a long john bread. It may not be the most glamorous snack out there, but it's certainly one of the most beloved. And who knows – it

important part of campus culture. So, grab a pastry and enjoy a taste of the past, present, and future.

ANGEL O. PANGDEW

ANONYMOUS: Express your heart out with BSU FW

“Exam naa! Crush baka naman tulungan moko sa anaphy Hahahaha. Jk, baka magselos pa showaa mo. Ag review ktdin! Haha #Librobagoikaw>3< #CTE #BSULT”

Love confessions, rants, lost and found items, special mentions, inspirational quotes, greetings, appreciations – these are just some of the topics of the entries being submitted to the Benguet State University (BSU) Freedom Wall Facebook page that will carry you on a roller coaster of emotions.

Eight Years of Existence

Created on March 11, 2015, the BSU Freedom Wall has been sharing entries from anonymous senders for almost eight years now, recording stories, funny memories, and confessions. It covers a wide range of topics, hooking students, teachers, and graduates of the university to keep posted and look forward to the future entries.

Entries, Entries, and More Entries

To submit an entry, a link (bsufw.uni-truths.com) is provided on the page for easier access. Clicking on the link will redirect the user to a website where one can input his entry without having his identity be known. Submissions need to undergo admin approval to avoid entries that violate the Facebook Community

Guidelines or UniTruths' Terms of Use/Service. Posts with names or pictures of someone can be edited or rejected by the administrators of the page.

Most entries that attracts a number of reactions and comments are the love and crush shout-outs, or love problems just like #BSUFW_3263, “.., hihingi po sana ako ng advice kung anong dapat gawin. Ganito po kasi yun may jowa po ako and then may kaklaseng babae po ako na umamin sa akin na gusto niya ako, araw araw nagiging clingy sa akin and loyal naman po ako sa gf ko. Ano pong dapat kong gawin para iwasan si classmate na hindi siya naooffend kasi ayaw ko pong masaktan siya kahit papaano.”

Aside from the mentioned topics, entries sharing students' struggles with their studies are relatable and gathers a lot of reactions and comments, and those who like to give pieces of advice just like #BSUFW_3017, “ pumapasok

naiintindihan yung lesson niyo tas ikaw parang ikaw lang yung hindi”

Readers also enjoy random entries such as the entry #BSUFW_3047, “naimas ang long john,” with readers mentioning their friends in the comment section and discussing their experiences in buying long john at the marketing building.

Speaking Your Voice

and praises for staying strong were commented by the readers in the said entry. This entry inspired other anonymous sender to share their experiences on sexual abuse, just like another anonymous

posted his side on the freedom wall to clarify what really has happened and to stop the hate being thrown at them.

This incident is just one of many instances where posts have been misunderstood because of jumping into conclusions. That is why we should be careful with what we

naman ako araw-araw

nakikinig naman ako sa mga lectures, pinipilit ko naman nag aral mabuti. Pero may mga times lang talaga na feeling mo

parang pinagiiwanan ka na ng lahat like lahat ng kaklase mo

BSU Freedom Wall also serves as a place for victims of abuse and violence to share the experiences they had just like the entry #BSUFW_3111, who wrote an open letter to his uncle who sexually abused him three times. Words of encouragement

sender who shared a sexual harassment she experienced from one of her teachers.

Fake Info

A ‘now deleted’ entry talks about two students at a hidden place in the campus. The caption claims that the students are dating and making that specific place a meeting sight. A blurred photo was attached to protect the identity of those who were believed to be dating. The post caught a lot of attention with students commenting

post online, even if our identity is kept a secret.

Express Anonymously

There is no problem expressing your thoughts anonymously in a freedom wall, but we should also remember that we are posting online where a lot of social media consumers are reading these posts that we make. We should learn to filter our words, we should learn to check what we are about to post to avoid misunderstanding and create issues. If we make mistakes, learn to apologize, and do better. It is also better not to speak about something we have

negative things towards the two students. The guy in the photo then commented that it was not just the two of them there. They have companions as well but they left when the photo was taken. He then

no idea about at all, as speaking without having knowledge on the issue at hand can lead to misinformation and spread of fake news that may hurt other people.

La Trinidad, Benguet, Cordillera Administrative Region

NIKKO BRYLL T. MABLAY

Photo by Porapak Apichodilok

Ka-Igorotan: Melting pot of diverse cultures

Have you ever visited the northern part of Luzon and encountered the indigenous people known as Igorots? Perhaps you've heard the common stereotypes associated with them, such as having dark skin, curly hair, or even long tails. But to reduce the Igorots to mere physical characteristics is to overlook their rich culture and history.

The Igorots are a group of indigenous peoples in the Philippines who reside primarily in the Cordillera Administrative Region of Luzon. The term "Igorot" comes from the Tagalog word "igorot" which means "mountaineer". They are known for their unique culture and customs, which have been shaped by their environment and history.

The people from the mountains have a rich oral tradition, which includes epics, myths, and legends. These stories are passed down from generation to generation and are an important part of their culture. They are animists, which means they believe that all things have a spirit. They have a complex belief system that includes the worship of ancestral spirits and nature spirits.

The Igorots are a diverse group of people who share many cultural similarities but also have distinct differences based on their location and history. There are

six main groups of Igorots: the Bontoc, Ifugao, Kalinga, Apayao, Benguet, and the Ibaloy.

The Bontoc people are known for their complex weaving techniques, which produce intricate patterns on their clothing and blankets. They are also famous for their rice terraces, which are presented in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The Ifugao people are famous for their rice terraces, which are considered a wonder of the world. The Ifugao are also known for their mumbaki or religious leaders, who conduct rituals for important

events such as weddings, funerals, and harvests.

The Kalinga people are known for their traditional tattooing, which is done using thorns and charcoal, their oldest tattoo artist is Apo Whang-od. They are also famous for their fierce warriors, who have a history of resisting colonialism and oppression. The Apayao people are known for their handicrafts, particularly their baskets made from

bamboo and rattan. They are also skilled farmers and hunters.

The Benguet people are known for their mining skills, particularly in gold mining. They are also skilled in agriculture and have a rich culinary culture.

The Ibaloy people are known for their skill in metalworking, particularly in iron and copper. They are also skilled farmers and hunters.

One more thing, the Igorots practice a system called "pakipat" which involves mutual cooperation and assistance among members of the community. They also have a unique form of music and dance, which includes the gong ensemble and the tayaw dance. The gong ensemble is a group of musicians who play a set of gongs and drums, while the tayaw dance is a courtship dance that involves intricate footwork and hand gestures.

“The Igorot people are known to be resilient, self-sustaining, villageoriented, and we are used to simple living,” said Mark Santiago.

The Igorots are indeed known to have a large identity and pride in their culture; however, the area has also been a hub for trade and commerce, bringing people from different parts of the country and

even abroad, resulting in a blending of different cultures.

People from the mountains fight the struggles they faced to maintain their traditions and customs in the face of modernization and globalization. Moreover, Igorots have a strong sense of community and cooperation, considering they have a long history of resistance against colonialism and oppression. They fought against the Spanish, American, and Japanese colonizers who attempted to conquer their land and culture.

They have faced discrimination and prejudice in the Philippines, particularly in the past. They have been stereotyped as primitive and uncivilized, and have been marginalized in society. However, the Igorots have made significant contributions to Philippine society, particularly in the fields of agriculture, mining, and handicrafts. They have also contributed to the country's cultural heritage through their music, dance, and art.

So the next time you think of the Igorots, remember that they are more than just their physical characteristics. They are a rich and diverse group of indigenous peoples with a unique culture and history that deserves recognition and respect.

DAISYLYN B. CONTADA

Photos by Jacob Maentz

Panagbenga: Blooming in Colors

Panagbenga Festival, also known as the Baguio Flower Festival, is an annual event held in the Philippine city of Baguio during the month of February. The festival is one of the most anticipated events in the country due to its emphasis on the city's extensive cultural history. But this year, Panagbenga returned to its colorful glory after an extended absence due to the pandemic.

This year's Panagbenga Festival in Baguio City was a resounding success, thanks to the city's effort to make it more exciting and grander than previous celebrations before and after the two-year hiatus caused by the pandemic. The session in Bloom was a highlight of the festival, featuring not just cosplayers, but also numerous stalls selling various handmade and affordable products such as jewelry, accessories, charm bracelets, handmade bags, plants, and food.

The streets were alive with music from bands who encouraged passersby to sing along or request a song. Dancers also hyped up the crowd, encouraging both tourists and residents to dance and have fun, often receiving tips from enthusiastic participants. The festival was a testament to the city's resilience and commitment to showcasing the vibrant culture of Baguio City.

The Panagbenga Festival is held every year in Baguio City to celebrate the arrival of spring and the blossoming of flowers, as described by local resident Justine Sano. The festival runs from the first of February through the first week of March.

When the city's economy was devastated by the 1990 earthquake, the Panagbenga Festival was

born. In 1995, the festival was established with the aim of drawing in visitors and reviving the local economy. A term from the Kankanaey language, "Panagbenga" means "a season of blooming." Because of the abundance of flowers, the street dancing parade in which the dancers wear flowers (especially sunflowers), and the world-famous floral floats from the city's various businesses and institutions, Baguio City truly blossoms during the Panagbenga festival.

The Grand Parade is the festival's highlight. This consists flower-decorated vehicles. In this category of the festival, participating companies can showcase their creativity.

Since the Grand Parade's floats are mostly made of flowers, flower shops and farms will get many bulk orders during this time. All the different kinds of flowers that grow in and around Baguio and the surrounding provinces are used for the floats, from sunflowers to roses to chrysanthemums to everlastings to carnations and more besides.

The companies that participated in this year's Grand Parade did an exceptional job. Baguio residents and visitors alike lined the route to the Baguio

Cathedral in anticipation of the grand parade. Companies such as Jollibee, Sitel Philippines, Converge, Palawan Express, TIEZA, Mang Inasal, Avilon Zoo, Zaparita's Garden, the Province of Benguet, and The Fraternal Order of Eagles (Philippine Eagles) marched in the parade.

Some businesses even had Filipino TV personalities join them on their floats. Celebrities such as Lovi Poe, Kylie Padilla, and Cristine Reyes all participated in the grand parade.

It is clear from the many Facebook posts, especially those made in the Facebook Group Sa Baguio, that both visitors and locals had a great time during this year's celebration of the Panagbenga Festival in Baguio City. Everyone had a good time at the party, so the city's efforts were worthwhile.

As the Panagbenga Festival brought joy and celebration to Baguio's visitors and locals at long last. Something that the two years of the Covid -19 pandemic prevented them from experiencing. Festivals brighten our days, but Panagbenga festival does so much more.

JENNYFER O. SENICA

Photo by Baguio Midland Courier

La Trinidad, Benguet, Cordillera Administrative Region

Photo by Raphael Dino

Photo by Raphael Dino

CAMPUS CHARACTERS: THE UNIQUE PERSONALITIES OF UNIVERSITY LIFE

JOHNREL R. BALAODAN

The university is full of opportunities to meet new people, make friends, and build lasting relationships. It is a melting pot where students from all walks of life converge and come together to pursue their academic dreams. Among the diverse community of students, there are those who stand out for their unique personalities and traits, and each student brings their own flavor to the mix.

Whether you are a freshman just starting your university journey or a senior preparing to graduate, you have probably encountered at least one of these personalities along the way. Each one has its own strengths and quirks, and getting to know them can broaden your perspective and help you appreciate the diversity of your campus community. Here are some of the personalities that you'll commonly meet at Benguet State University or at any university that you’re in:

The Sporty

The ball or the racket is the friend of this campus character. They love to stay active and participate in various sports activities. They are always on the go and can often be seen wearing their sports attire, carrying their sports bags and water bottles. They join university sports teams and take part in intercollegiate competitions, and their passion for sports inspires others to stay healthy and active.

Intramurals and sports fest are the limelights for the sporty, it is where the campus crushes reign.

The Achiever

Books and coffee, coffee, and coffee are the picks of this personality. He dedicates himself to taking the road to academic excellence. The Achievers are always striving to be at the top of their class and are diligent and focused in their studies. They are often seen studying in the library or attending extracurricular activities that would enhance

their knowledge and skills. The achievers are one of the torch lighters of the university.

Having recognitions can be motivating, but being an achiever takes a lot of responsibility.

The Joker

Jokes are the cards of this game-changer character. They love to have fun and make people laugh. The Jokers are the ones who lighten up the mood in class and make the environment more relaxed and enjoyable. Every class has a joker and it only takes a few weeks to spot them. College life would be in black and white without the joker.

The Pageant Queen

This campus character seeks the stage as her runway. She is a student who embodies intelligence, grace, beauty, and elegance. They represent their college in various beauty pageants and are passionate about advocating for their chosen causes. Their confidence and charisma push them to more than just standing on high heels.

The Pageant Queen sees pageants as a way to empower herself and others, and to make a positive impact on society.

The Sleep Advocate

A comfortable chair is the pillow of this campus character. They are advocates sleep and prioritize rest above anything else. They often struggle to stay awake in class and are always in need of a nap.

The Sleepies are the ones that cannot be easily spotted as they

blend well with the crowd and the only way to recognize them is to observe who among the class often sleeps, but do not jump into conclusions right away as it takes more than a week to see who is who.

The sleep advocate is always taken for granted. However, they are also a reminder to students that taking care of one's mental health is just as important as academic pursuits, and that sometimes, it's okay to take a break and rest.

The Fashionista

Pastel colors and blazers are the elements of this campus personality. They love to express themselves through fashion and creativity. They are always dressed to impress and are not afraid to stand out. The fashionistas often inspire their peers to experiment with different styles and express their own unique personalities. In fact, they are the setters of ‘The Aesthetic Movement’ and challenge the boundaries of simplicity through the elegance of clothes.

Fashion is a good way

to boost confidence. And clearly, the fashionista knows how to own the game.

University life provides a platform for students to meet a diverse group of people from different walks of life.

The Sporty lives for the sweat to win his game. The Achiever's dedication to academic excellence inspires others, while the Joker lightens the mood in class. The Pageant Queen uses their confidence and intelligence to walk the stage, the Sleep Advocate reminds us of the importance of taking care of our mental health, and the Fashionista inspires their peers to try out different clothing styles.

From the Sporty to the Fashionista, each personality brings something unique to the table and contributes to the rich tapestry of student life.

The Sporty lives for the sweat to win his game. The Achiever's dedication to academic excellence inspires others to aim for success, while the Joker lightens the mood in class and makes the environment more relaxed. The Pageant Queen uses their confidence and intelligence to walk the stage, the Sleep Advocate reminds us of the importance of taking care of our mental health, and the Fashionista inspires their peers to experiment with different clothing styles.

Ultimately, we meet different types of students in our campus life and it is through these differences that we see our unique characteristics as learners. Diversity brings out the beauty of the university experience, and it is through embracing and celebrating these differences that we can build a more inclusive and welcoming campus community.

A refreshing and sweet drink served with a sizeable straw is the ever-growing milk tea. This pleasant drink may be made from varieties of tea. The crowd favorites are Jasmine and Oolong. In addition, these cups of delightful drinks are filled with different add-ons like fruit jellies, bobas or peals, pannacotta, cream cheese, and many more.

Milk tea has been circulating for quite some time now and it shows no sign of abating. You’re certainly missing out if you haven’t tried milk tea yet.

The second option is "bubble tea," often known as pearl milk tea or boba tea. While tea houses were popular in Taiwan, bubble tea became a worldwide phenomenon. I

Accordingly, milktea was created in the 1980s, but two tea establishments claimed to be the first to do so. Tu Tsong, the proprietor of the Hanlin Teahouse, said that he accidentally developed the drink by combining tea, milk, and white tapioca balls that resembled pearls.

A more popular theory holds that the drink was invented by Liu Han-Chieh, proprietor of the Chun Shui Tang Teahouse. According to Liu, he was inspired to create

MILK TEA CRAZE ISN'T GOING ANYWHERE SOON

milk tea after visiting Japan and seeing how the Japanese served cold coffee; however, his first milk tea mix did not include pearls. Lin Hsiu Hui, Liu's product development manager, came up with the recipe in 1988 when she brought tapioca pudding to a staff meeting and put it in her milk tea for fun. Everyone at the gathering fell in love with the drink right away, and the tapioca pudding became known as "pearls" or "boba" later on.

Serenitea, founded in 2008 by Juliet HerreraChen and Peter Chen, was the pioneer of milk tea in the Philippines. Peter had spent some time in Taiwan, where he had experienced the milk tea high, and he believed that the drink would also appeal to Filipinos. He was proven correct.

A year later, several milk tea stores began to sprout up throughout university regions, making milk tea a student favorite. However, the milk tea "craze" did not officially begin until 2010, when then-UAAP basketball player Chris Tiu opened the first Happy Lemon. Happy Lemon's specialty was cream cheese milk tea, which became so famous that people were willing to stand in lengthy lines

simply to try it.

Milk tea’s popularity peaked in 2013 but declined between 2014 and 2016 due to food poisoning incidents and allegations that it raises the risk of diabetes. It was still a popular drink, and there were milk tea stores on every corner, but people weren't as enthusiastic about it as they had been. That changed in 2017 when Tiger Sugar launched Taiwan's first Brown Sugar Milk tea. The brown sugar syrup sprayed on the cup's side resembled tiger stripes, hence their name.

The first Tiger Sugar location launched in the Philippines in 2018 and was welcomed with enormous acclaim, with customers prepared to wait in line for hours to try it.

The popularity of milk tea in the Philippines is undeniable. We love milk tea, and that’s proven. Tea has been around for a long time, and milk tea gave it a tasty twist. We are all familiar with tea, but what sets milk tea apart is its unique flavors. Besides, no one thought that tea could be consumed cold. The Philippines is a hot country, and it gets even more desirable in summer.

Milk tea is an ideal refresher on such hot days. A

hot summer afternoon with a tasty and cold cup of milk tea chills the mood down. Milk tea is in high demand, according to Oliver, a barista at "Zen Tea," one of La Trinidad's well-known milk tea shops. They get hundreds of orders from all around, mostly from Benguet State University,

extensive; we have to cook the tapioca for an hour or two, two hours before the opening, because the students would arrive during their morning breaks at the same time; we also have to boil the teas and produce syrups,” Oliver expressed.

If you are a habitual soda consumer, milk tea is an excellent alternative to, or perhaps a substitute for, this beverage. Yet, despite its health advantages, it is critical to understand your limits when it comes to how frequently and how much you should drink. According to a medical study, excessive drinking of milk tea might contribute to particular health issues, such as diabetes.

If you consume milk tea in excess, the chemical might cause significant constipation owing to the dryness and dehydration it causes in your body. Fans, here's the bad news about drinking too much milk tea: If you don't cut back on this guilty pleasure, you might develop Type 2 diabetes. Health experts recommend a small amount of this milk tea once a week, which is only one huge cup.

"The technique for manufacturing milk tea is very

which is right across the street.

La Trinidad, Benguet, Cordillera Administrative Region

GHERLIE G. EMBERNATE

Photo by Freepik

If you are a habitual soda consumer, milk tea is an excellent alternative to, or perhaps a substitute for, this beverage. Yet, despite its health advantages, it is critical to understand your limits when it comes to how frequently and how much you should drink.

A Special Collection of Poetries

Death Becomes You

Absolute Slums

By Judy-Ann Camille C. Vizcara

In the deepest and cruelest corner, Where the shadows lurk over, Savages and feebles come together, Enduring their seething hunger.

Forging spoils and crumbs in secrecy, Away from the sight of those greedy, Bits from bones and rotten veggie, Rations from the leftovers of the wealthy.

We once dreamed like fine royalty, Eating grains of rice and a whole turkey, Indulging ourselves with scrumptious delicacy, Soothing the anger of our growling belly.

Our dreams may be dim and eccentric, Where hopes and wonders are at their peak, Tricking our skin and bones away from hunger, To lessen the anguish of the unjust and suffer.

For sure, one day in this cold and disheveled place, Where no one weeps or cares for our sake, Death will retrieve our poor and warm souls, Alas, we will never starve once more.

By Daisylyn B. Contada

We only have one life to live, Amidst the brokenness, we can choose to forgive. We can live in misery, yet still be kind, In a world full of chaos and constant grind.

That is how we die multiple times, the desperation for yearning so much for love, the desperation for craving intense validation, eats us up and leaves us to die over and over again.

Death becomes a natural talk, where it celebrates walking on earth accompanying you with the grief it bestows, the grief that no one knows.

Death becomes a friend, who you can share all your traumas, traumas that everyone gave without you knowing Death becomes you, You become nobody.

We search for solace in the darkest of places, Hoping to find a way out of life's mazes. But the road ahead seems never-ending, And our brokenness, remains forever mending.

Photo by Jonathas Cardoso (from pexels.com)

Meadow Melodies

By Nikko Bryll T. Mablay

Walking in the grassy meadows at midday, The majestic snow capped mountains are in sight. The cold breeze against the warmth of the sunlight. The blooming wildflowers with the butterflies.

A wicker basket full of delicious treats, two wine glasses for the bittersweet red wine, An old radio playing a sweet melody. Midday picnic beside the weeping willow.

The letter and rose I received weeks ago. The once red rose, was now dried and shriveled. To the distance I looked but I never saw, Not even a single shadow in sight.

Still I kept on waiting for your arrival, Until the skies were orange, purple, and red. Then the clouds rolled by and a strong wind blew in, Blowing your letter far away from me.

Trailing the letter, a raindrop on my cheek, Lifting my face, I saw the sorrowful skies. Dark clouds reigned over the meadow and mountains, The melancholic tune to the sound of rain.

Beneath the weeping willow,I took cover, The melancholic tune of the old radio. Tears fell as I picked the rose from the puddle, the drenched and shriveled rose as its petals fell.

Of Sorrow and Grief

"Shallow Depths"

By: Angel O. Pangdew

Silently sitting, staring into the void, Exhausted beyond measure, could rest for years employed.

Pondering deeply, in the depths of despair, My heart dulled and lifeless, filled with bitter snare.

Through misty windows, I seethe and seethe My brain cries out, "Find good in morrow's weave!" In frustration, my hands fly up to cleave This chain of sorrow that I cannot leave

I laugh, I scream, I shout, I cry, A tormented soul lost in endless strife. As the hours of darkness slowly pass by, I ask fate, "why such an unfair life?"

Oh, cruel fate! Oh, treacherous fate! You filled my existence with pain and misery so great. My life's become a living hell that I hate, As my soul searches for answers to this grim fate.

Let hope shine through the misty haze, And lead me to brighter, happier days. For though my heart may feel shallow and weak, I know with time, my spirit can rise and seek.

Through the pain and the tears, our sorrows give birth to poetry, a testament to our resilience and a reminder that life's struggles are what make us truly alive.

A Special Collection of Poetries

Desiderata (Own version)

By Johnrel R. Balaodan

Bloom in the midst of a winter storm. And make your color be the only one that’s seen. Shine in the absence of light. And break free from the chains that bound you. Never be afraid to be unique. You are exceptional. Remember to surround yourself with good people. And because you are the country's hope, build yourself with honesty and integrity. Live with humility and compassion. With the increasing power of lies, speak in the light of the truth, stand against the strike of oppression, and break down the walls of diversity. As you achieve these things, take good care of yourself. Never put too much pressure. Build a fortress of bravery; never let it falter. Instead, make them gleam like golden foils. Strive with resilience. Take risks; success does not come free. And when life puts you in a stage of despair, always place your trust in God's hands. For He is The Almighty, He does not put you into a race you cannot win.

A Child Thought of God

By Jennyfer O. Senica

They say that God resides on high, Beyond the pines and azure sky. Why can't we see Him, we often ask, In the heavens or a golden cask?

And if you dig down the mines You would never see him in the gold Though from him all the glory shines. All new, no one gets old.

God is so good, He wears a fold Of heaven and Earth across his face Like secrets kept, for love untold, And warmth for His embrace.

But still I feel that his embrace Slides down by thrills, Through all things made Through sights & sounds of every place;

As my tender mother laid On my shut lips her kisses’ pressure Half-waking me at night & said “Who kissed you through the dark dear guesser?”

Photo by Jonathas Cardoso (from pexels.com)

Of Life and Resilience

“My Fortress”

By Gherlie G. Embernate

Snuggled up in blankets tight, Cozy in bed so warm and bright, Outside the world may rage and roar, But here I have my own rapport.

The sun may rise and paint the sky, But I'm content to close my eyes, And dream of places far away, Where I can go and laugh and play.

The wind may howl and trees may sway, But I'm happy to just lay, And listen to the raindrops fall, In my fortress, my cozy hall.

There's beauty in the world outside, But sometimes I need to hide, And find my peace within my bed, Where I can rest my weary head.

So go on and rage, outside world, I'll be here, my blankets curled, Safe and sound within my nest, Until it's time to face the rest.

For in my fortress, I can see, The strength that lies inside of me, And though the storms may come and go, I know I have a place to go.

"We Fall, We Rise"

By Ryalin M. Libelo

Life is like a weather, with calm and thunder Unveil your emotions, let them pull you from under Our resilience in adversity shall keep us alive The gale may blow at any moment, but we'll strive

We fall and rise, like the ocean's tides Crashing, retreating, then swelling with pride Sometimes the undertow feels too strong to bear But even in the darkness, hope is always there

Slowly, we climb towards the light Our strength renewed, with every fight The scars of our past become our shield Guiding us forward, refusing to yield

Our journey may not always be kind But we persevere with an unbreakable mind We fall and rise, each time stronger than before This time, we'll always ready for more.

For life is not just a stormy sea

It's a journey of discovery, of who we can be So let's embrace each moment, with gratitude and grace And cherish this journey, as we find our place.

Life's challenges are but stanzas in our poem, yet with resilience, we rhyme them into a beautiful masterpiece.

La Trinidad, Benguet, Cordillera Administrative Region

BSU dominates CARASUC

Benguet State University Wildcats emerged victorious defeating five other universities with an overwhelming total of 232 medals, with 127 golds, 73 silvers, and 32 bronze medals at the Cordillera Administrative Region and Association of State Universities and Colleges (CARASUC) Athletic Meet at Kalinga State University, Bulanao, Tabuk City, on April 1821, 2023.

It had been three years since the last staging of the CARASUC, held at Abra State Institute of Science and Technology, Lagangilang, Abra, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year's theme, "Sustaining Sports, Culture, and the Arts for Nation Building during the PostPandemic," underscored the importance of athletics in promoting unity and resilience in times of adversity.

BSU Wildcats dominated in combative sports, winning 16 golds and two silvers for Pencak Silat, 10 golds, five silvers, and four bronzes for Karate, eight golds, three silvers, and four bronzes for Muay Thai, two golds, four silvers, and four bronzes for boxing, 18 golds, 10 silvers, and five bronzes for Arnis, and five golds, six silvers, and three bronzes for Taekwondo, both male and female categories.

Jenny Rose Gamotlong, Taekwondo gold medalist stated that she felt happy in winning because it made her coaches, teammates and family proud, and her sacrifices ended with good results which motivated her more.

“I feel a little bit anxious about competing at the nationals because I know that my opponents are stronger, but at the same time I am thankful for the opportunity to face other athletes from other places,” added Gamotlong. She also stressed on the important qualities an athlete must possess. “Athletes must have a strong mind in every battle they are facing. They should be the chess masters of

BSU Athletes sweep gold in CARASUC Track and Field events

The Benguet State University athletes have made their mark as gold winners in the track and field events at the Cordillera Administrative Region Association of State Universities and Colleges (CARASUC) held from April 1821, 2023, at Kalinga State University in Bulanao, Tabuk City.

Excitements filled the field as the BSU Track and Field team clinched their victory as the overall champions of the Track and Field events.

Emmanuel Ngalides, who dominated in the 3,000 meter run, 5,000 meter run, and 10,000 meter run, won multiple gold medals. He said, "Running is not just about winning; it's about pushing your limits every day and seeing how far you can go." His commitment to pushing himself to his limits has paid off as he claimed the top prize.

Michelle Timicpao also shone in her events,

winning gold in the 800 meter run and 10,000 meter run.Her unwavering belief in herself propelled her to victory. "I never thought I could achieve this. But I believed in myself and pushed harder every day. And now, I am a champion," she exclaimed.

Alvin Saguid proved to be a valuable asset to the team, winning gold in the 3,000 meter run. Accordingly, he was honored to represent his university and compete with the best. "Winning a medal is just a bonus, but the experience and the lessons I learned are priceless," he stated.

His dedication to his craft was evident in his performance.

Christian Caga also showcased his determination and dedication to the sport, winning gold in the 5,000 meter run and 10,000 meter run. His mental fortitude and physical strength were on full display as he secured gold in both his events."Running is not just about physical strength. It's also about mental toughness," he said.

Steven Clyde Wayagwag was a dynamic sprinter, winning gold in the 100 meter dash, 200 meter dash, and 4x100 meter relay. He believed that winning a race is not just about crossing the finish line first. "It's about giving your all and leaving everything on the track,” he stated. His commitment to giving his all and leaving it all

their own game.”

BSU Wildcats also dominated at track and field with a total of 43 medals: 32 golds, 8 silvers, and 3 bronzes. On the other hand, BSU Wildcats also ruled the ball games with their spikes, assists, lay-ups, attacks, and goals, winning golds in football men, futsal women, volleyball men, and a silver in basketball men. They also seized the championship for chess - men, and a second place finish for chess - women.

Furthermore, Mr. and Ms. BSU Kristian Salio and Xyliene Bernyze Obiacoro, secured the crowns for Mr. and Mrs. CARASUC.

For the overall

championship, Kalinga State University (KSU) landed in second place followed by Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC) in third place, Ifugao State University (IFSU) in fourth place, Abra State Institute of Science and Technology (ASIST) in fifth, and Apayao State College (ASC) in sixth place. The winners in each event will represent the region in the upcoming Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) athletic meet and socio-cultural festival to happen at Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, in October 2023.

on the track earned him the top prize in all his events. The athletes' success is a testament to their rigorous training, discipline, and passion for the sport. They pushed themselves to their limits and showed that with determination and hard work, anything is possible. Their exemplary performance has brought honor to their university, and they have become an inspiration to many aspiring athletes.

The Benguet State University athletes have proven that they are indeed champions, and their achievements are truly remarkable. Their hard work, perseverance, and dedication to their sport have paid off, and they have set a new standard in the track and field events. As they represent the region in the next sports competition, may the odds be in their favor. Hail BSU!

ANGEL O. PANGDEW

TEKONG. BSU Sepak Team striking their way to the championship. Rexmar Minggas Guiabao (boy) and Yasha Mae Ananayo (girl) serve the team with their powerful blocks and strikes.

NIKKO BRYLL T. MABLAY