Kapawa Online Newsletter Vol. 5 No. 5

KAPAWA

Battling

e surge

Negros Occidental active COVID cases highest in region Angeli M. Geroso Due to the poor compliance to minimum health standards, the Province of Negros Occidental ranked first among the provinces and highly urbanized cities in Western Visayas with the highest number of active coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

cases as of Nov. 7.

The data from the Department of Health Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD6) showed that Negros Occidental took the lead with 1,606 active cases out of 4,962 confirmed cases, trailed by the Iloilo Province with 489 active cases out of 2,237,

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WHAT’S INSIDE EDITORIAL

WHEN IRON FISTS MELT Tough times demand tougher decisions but never tough hands.

Last March 2020, the world took a turn no one saw coming. A global health crisis ensued and soon, countries find themselves frantic on how they would respond to such. The Philippines was no exception to the dilemma...

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SPORTS

THE DEATH OF SPORTS?

COVID-19 has paused all life as we know it and sports is enduring its challenges. In Negros Occidental, this has stopped all major contact sporting events such as the notable Negros Occidental Private Schools Sports Cultural Educational Association (NOPSSCEA) with their football and basketball tournaments.

With this, concerns regarding the mandatory postponement of events began to surface. Will sports prevail in this dilemma?...

Continue reading: Page 12

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and Iloilo City with 358 active cases out of 4,128.

In addition,

the said province also garnered a streak of the highest number of newly

confirmed COVID-19 cases in Region 6 on Oct. 27–Nov. 1.

COVID - 19 provincial mass testing unfolds Anna Sophia C. Galzote and Nicole Frances H. Sazon

As the pandemic swept the streets of Bacolod City and the Province of Negros Occidental, the surging number of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases prompted the provincial government and local government units (LGUs) to conduct a COVID-19 mass testing under the “Timeout Weekend” on Aug. 28–31.

The said governmental bodies only imposed targeted lockdowns in three cities and one municipality after the National Inter-Agency Task Force (NIATF) did not approve the request as stated by Negros Occidental Governor

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Eugenio Jose Lacson. “ U p o n consultation with these mayors, we have decided that we will not do a total lockdown. [….]

Each LGU shall have the discretion to declare localized and targeted lockdown,” said Lacson during a press conference.

To curb the local transmission cases, the implementation of the targeted lockdown aided in the COVID-19 mass testing of 10,000 symptomatic patients in Bacolod City and Negros Occidental.

The mass testing commenced in Bacolod City on Aug. 28–29, followed by the cities

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of Silay, Talisay, Bago, and the municipality of Murcia on Aug. 30–31.

“If we do not do this properly, we will end up losing the war to this virus. [….] We are asking for the cooperation of everybody because if we do not arrest [COVID-19], we could be next to Cebu,” Former Representative Alfredo “Albee” Benitez stated via Inquirer.net.

Benitez added that Bacolod City along with Negros Occidental attained the highest number of COVID-19 cases in Western Visayas as of Aug. 23.

@KapawaOfficial

ALARMING. Negros Occidental healthcare workers continue the swab tests as cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) increases.

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. LA SALLE . VOLUME 5 NO. 5 . JANUARY TO NOVEMBER 2020

KAPAWA

2

EDITORIAL

WHEN IRON FISTS MELT

“When Iron Fists melt” illustration by Jewel Irish S. Belascuain

EDITOR’S NOTE

Tough times demand tougher decisions—but never tough hands.

Last March 2020, the world took a turn no one saw coming. A global health crisis ensued and soon, countries find themselves frantic on how they would respond to such. The Philippines was no exception to the dilemma. As the months progressed, so did the problem. So, how did we respond to that?

By letting a team of exmilitary officials lead and having policemen demand order and discipline.

But in a country seething in poverty, how does this play? Brute force, in this context, has just taken new shapes: violence and ignorance.

First, President Rodrigo Duterte has continuously warned us of such approach. In a

late-night Presidential Address on August 10, the president stated that if the numbers continue to rise, he may have no choice but to deploy military figures for public intimidation.

This was done in hopes of strengthening community lockdown protocols. And so, he did.

However, when cases of police brutality begin to resurface, we start questioning whether this is a good idea.

In the earlier months of April, the death of Winston Ragos, an ex-military suffering from PTSD, in the hands of police authority shook the nation. Peace and order are the principles in which they should adhere to—yet we find ourselves yelling for justice. And in a land with a bloody history on police brutality, we start questioning whether

we are safe under these choices.

Fur thermore , militarism employed against COVID-19 has never stood as appropriate.

Instead of having medical professionals handle the Inter-Agency Task Force, ex-military generals took charge. This is in no way belittling their intelligence, but it is in proper scientific input that an effective pandemic response can be established.

Ruling with an iron fist can only go so far until it reckons faulty and inappropriate.

Priorities are to be set in a time of predicaments ,and militarism is not just on top of the list.

Iron fists can only go so far before it melts against the will of the people.

KAPAWA

A.Y. 2020-2021

THE OFFICIAL ENGLISH PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSIT Y OF ST. L A SALLE - SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL

KIM T. DIAZ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

“Survival of the fittest” conjures images of evolution, transition, innovation—all pertaining to our human nature to thrive.

Such themes burn brighter now than ever as the world takes turns no one sees coming.

Life, as we know it, finds itself threatened by a global crisis and we have no choice but to navigate foreign circumstances. Out of these turbulations are newfound passions to surpass the period.

In these pages are stories of survival— in adversaries or triumphs. From how Bacolod copes up with the virus to how our understanding of activism widens, bear witness to unfaltering spirits written as tales of change. Let these narratives dawn a sense of reflection on how we shall further survive the sign of the times.

In the game of survival, we shall bend our wills to be persistent, despite the odds—for if we do not bend, we will break.

LOU MARCIAL M. CUESTA ASSISTANT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

JUSTIN ANDREI D. TANILON

JEWEL IRISH S. BELASCUAIN

JED EMMANUEL M. REYSOMA

NICOLE FRANCES H. SAZON

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

MANAGING EDITOR

NICOLE KAYE E. LIPA NEWS EDITOR

ASSISTANT ASSOCIATE EDITOR

ASSISTANT MANAGING EDITOR

ANGELI M. GEROSO

ASSISTANT ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

ALEIA NICHOLE M. TAYO

FRANCIS EXEQUIEL P. AMPIL

WILLIAM KHALID VIBAR

GIOLLAN HENRY P. DEMAULO

FEATURE EDITOR

SPORTS EDITOR

HANNAH NICOLE R. ESBLACA LAYOUT, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOS EDITOR

CHELSEA ANNE A. RALLOS CREATIVE LAYOUT EDITOR

LANCE RAFAEL M. LAZARO ANNA SOPHIA C. GALZOTE SAM HERVEY T. SABORDO NEWS WRITERS

ZERJEMAE C. ZARAGOSA

ASSISTANT FEATURE EDITOR ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

JOARNIEL JOHN S. HINOLAN

ASSISTANT LAYOUT, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOS EDITOR

VERONICA C. ARUTA

ASSISTANT CREATIVE LAYOUT EDITOR

JOSIE ANN H. APDOL KRYZTYL GRACE J. BULAO MARIA ENRICA CLARISSE M. DIO SABRINA YSABELLE C. LEDESMA KYLE BRYAN T. PALPARAN RYAN A. RODRIGUEZ TAVIN KALE V. VILLANUEVA LITERARY WRITERS

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY WRITER

ANASTASIA R. ALCANTARA KRISLA GAIL J. BATAC RIEDEN DENIELLE N. CUADRA GRACE KAY L. MILAN MILES U. GUANCIA FEATURE WRITERS

BEN JOSEPH L. MAIDO YAMANA D. MONTERO SPORTS WRITERS

RHIZNAN FAITH D. FERNANDEZ, LPT MODERATOR

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KAYLA ANGELIQUE D. CASTILLO LUCILLE MARIE L. MAGCUMOT CHARLIZE REYANNETTE T. NICASIO STEPHANIE ANNE O. ALOLON PHOTOJOURNALISTS

MARY ANDREA S. GEOLINGO ELI T. GOZON

MARTHA JULIAN SAMANTHA P. JAMERO

JOSEPH BRYANT J. DE LOS SANTOS STEPHANIE LOUISE L. GREGAS ANA DOMINIQUE G. MANABAT RIZLE M. PATOPATIN CASSEL DAVE G. TIVA ILLUSTRATORS

KAPAWA

OPINION

Call of nature

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Aristotle said that humans are political animals for we love to compete with other

“

As consumers of nature, it is our duty to fact-check ourselves on our privileges and act on these injustices caused by the ignorant.

“

Nicommends

countries as we claw our way up to the global food chain.

Though it is a good thing to be at the top, we should also ask ourselves: at what expense?

Therefore, I stand by San Carlos Bishop Gerardo Alminaza’s plea to halt the road project that will go through the Northern Negros Natural Park (NNNP) as the act would leave the wildlife

with little to no habitat.

According to Alminaza, the NNNP serves as a critical watershed in the province of Negros Occidental to protect the remaining forests for a sustainable development, which will deem beneficial to the inhabitants of that land.

Imagine being a monkey that depends on the trees you swing by for food and another species threatens to take away your habitat, how would it feel if you fail to defend your only territory?

As consumers of nature, it is our duty to fact-check ourselves on our privileges and act on these injustices caused by the ignorant.

Our voices together can stop monkey businesses.

Who represents us?

The Lou-vre

lou8cuesta@gmail.com

into silencing democracy makes it so dangerous.

One argues that Rep. Gasataya’s answer was escorted by revisions. Why

“

fear if the loopholes are taken into consideration?

But the people have spoken: a yes with reservations is still an affirmative vote.

The fact that these men, who were supposed to represent our priorities, chose to swerve screams ignorance. What we require is someone who can mirror the people’s needs and embody the freedom of us.

For the powerful are representing us, for better or for worse.

What we require is someone who can mirror the people’s needs and embody the freedom of us.

“

In a developing country, riddled with deceitful politicians, the people are stripped away of democratic power. Such is the case when Bacolod Rep. Greg Gasataya said “yes with reservations” for the AntiTerrorism Bill of 2020.

The people objected to such actions.

For them, the bill’s vague provisions give leeway for red-tagging anyone as potential terrorists under suspicion.

Although the bill does not explicitly say that activism is prohibited, it is the long history of misuse of police authority that has awakened us. The uncertainty of whether such bill can be weaponized

3

Distinguishing Fire

the Elite

jewelirishbelascuain@gmail.com

Nothing is more frightening than a fire amid a plague. As its flames became stronger, it reached islands beyond seas, and I tell you, the only fire that could withstand the quench of water is the deadliest monster of all—false information!

One single misconception already victimized over 6,760 people around the world.

These human-beings drank alcohol, methanol, and animal wastes in hopes to protect their selves from the unprecedented coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19).

Therefore, poor research can lead to one’s demise.

For the

Philippines, it’s more of a political insight. In the comment sections of the Department of Health’s COVID-19 updates, some citizens strongly believe that the pandemic is a scheme made by politicians to maneuver the public, to expand the 2021 budget’s zeroes, or to intensify the PhilHealth’s pocket—paving a way for corruption to go through!

Another concern is that how a mere cough and simple cold brought by the changing of seasons clings unto COVID-19!

That is why, we, as the world’s firefighters, should start extinguishing fire to prevent further damages by being transparent, having proper health education, and doing our research as we continue to practice health protocols.

COVID-19 has already burned enough; do not add more fuel to the fire!

Let us not spread fire— both misinformation and COVID-19 itself— more, or our world will soon crumble to ashes.

“Distinguishing Fire” illustration by Joseph Bryant J. de los Santos

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4

NEWS

UNWAVERING. Facing the tides of the new normal, Bacolod City National High School (BCNHS) Main and Alijis Extension stood firm in carrying out their mission as they prepare for the opening of classes.

Enrollment continues as education takes on alternative shift

Sam Hervey T. Sabordo Amidst the current setup brought by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, enrollment in both private and public schools for Academic Year (A.Y.) 2020-2021 continued in the Province

of Negros Occidental and Bacolod City.

With the modular and e-learning systems as alternative approaches, education pushed through despite the inability to conduct face-to-face classes as some private

schools and public schools officially resumed their operation on Aug. 24 and Oct. 5, respectively.

“Education cannot wait, our learners cannot wait. We continue with the process, so, we can give hope and continuity, and contribute to the normalization of activities in the country,” said Department of Education (DepEd) Secretary Leonor Briones.

Compared to last school year’s public schools’ enrollees of 109,867 in Bacolod City, the current number as of Oct.6 was at 108,067 or 98.4% with a 126.2% increase in senior high school.

“We are doing well.

Our schools started today following their basic education learning continuity

REMUNERATIVE. The hard work of the 96 public utility jeepney (PUJ) drivers had paid off as they receive their service fee of 3 thousand from the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD).

Bacolod enacts ‘libre sakay’ for healthcare, essential workers community quarantine For each day

Lance Rafael M. Lazaro (MECQ) on Sep. 8–30.

The program The City Government of was put into effect on Bacolod commissioned Sep. 14 after Mayor Evelio public utility jeepney Leonardia requested (PUJ) drivers in its “Libre councilors Dindo Ramos Sakay” program for ease and Cindy Rojas to of medical and essential discuss the parameters of services workers as the the proposed transport city has been placed system along with the under modified enhanced transport group leaders.

under the program, 48 jeepneys were dispersed throughout the city with the Bacolod Traffic Authority Office (BTAO) assigning seven point-to-point routes.

There were ten departure times from each of the seven barangay takeoff points, starting from 4:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. with

plans,” Bacolod Schools Superintendent Gladys Amylaine Sales announced.

On the other hand, private schools’ enrollment in Negros Occidental as of Sep. 28 plunged to 41.78% with only 12,034 students compared to the total of 28,800 in the previous school year while public schools’ enrollees were only 303,218 or 94.07% compared to 322,346 last school year.

“The drop in private schools’ enrollment is probably due to the fact that the teaching modalities they offer are the same as in public schools,” stated Richard Martinez, planning officer of the Negros Occidental division.

As a result of the low number of enrollees and lack of funds, 20 private schools in Bacolod City and 10 in Negros Occidental discontinued this school year.

Pandemic shoves Masskara off streets Nicole Kaye E. Lipa

The City of Smiles has failed to live up to its name after Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia canceled the public celebration of the annual MassKara Festival in October due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

This was pursuant to Executive Order (EO) No. 62 signed by Leonardia on Sep. 20, mandating the suspension of all revelries and activities scheduled for this year’s MassKara Festival, including parades, street dance competitions, concerts, and open market fairs among others.

“Facts and scientific studies supported by empirical data have

undoubtedly established that mass gatherings can be an effective channel of transmitting and spreading infections, like the COVID-19, among the population. Thus, the EO suspending the MassKara Festival celebration […] is called for,” Leonardia stated via Inquirer.net.

As of this writing, Bacolod City is under general community quarantine (GCQ) until Nov. 30; however, Leonardia already appealed to the national government to lower the city’s quarantine status to give way for the revitalization of the local economy.

a two-hour interval each and a central drop-off area at the Bacolod Public Plaza.

Moreover, Leonardia said that the program was initiated as

a response to the public transport suspension as mandated by the National Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (NIATF-MEID).

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F E AT U R E

5

SOUND OF SILENCE SOUND SILENCE

Francis Exequiel P. Ampil Governments are necessary because people left unchecked lead to chaos—a fact of life. But in this hostile political climate, a question poses itself nowadays, asked by Filipinos time and time again:

What happens if it’s the government composed of people left unchecked?

One way or another, the answer leads to silence—the rumbling prologue or the bloody aftermath, deafening either way.

Take, for example, one activist who roared against injustices here in Negros Occidental.

Zara Alvarez made waves in this tiny sugar town, a big name with a big target on her back. A paralegal staffer attuned to social

activism, she was a staunch defender of human rights in the Philippines.

But her biggest impact was unfortunately her last; this August, Alvarez—walking home for dinner—was shot to death by unidentified gunmen. The hope for more of her advocacy, gone; her would-be cries against injustice, silent.

One could say she’s a statistic, one of many

activists lost during this era; or a sign of the times, of the Anti-Terror Bill and the supposed abuses it could afflict. Most would agree, though, that she was a loss for the community. A flame burning for human rights, snuffed out because she was too bright to be ignored.

However, her fire remains, the delayed light of a faraway star.

The trails she blazed will be only followed by

more activists and her shouts for righteousness will only be echoed.

The fight for justice is not a straight story with a start and an end.

More like a soundwave, this battle has peaks to shout from and lulls to climb out of, reverberating back and forth—so in radio silence, always remember that that’s where shouts are the loudest.

Anastasia R. Alcantara

F E AT U R E

ONE PESO CAN TOUCH THE HEARTS OF MANY

Illustration by Stephanie Loouise L. Gregas

Power outages.

Late submissions.

Connectivity issues.

Ever since the start of online classes, these are the hurdles most Filipino students face. In an average week, many students in a class would be unable to attend lessons due to connectivity issues; the other half of these students would be in a Zoom call using their phones instead of a laptop. That may not seem like much of an issue, but when it comes to submitting Word documents, making PowerPoint presentations, and editing video projects, not owing a laptop could be a huge problem.

H o w e v e r, the unity in a Filipino community worked once again, even when things seemed too difficult for most.

#PisoParaSalaptop, a modern form of bayanihan, encouraged students and civilians to spread the aforementioned hashtag on social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. The online movement raised funds for students who need a laptop or other school materials required in their distance learning.

Filipino learners nationwide participated in the movement, including a student from the City of Smiles itself: Joebern Pongyan.

Garnering over 9,000 likes on his Facebook post, it’s safe to say that Pongyan’s life as a student was not put on hold at the hands of COVID-19.

Whether it was through a simple retweet on Twitter, share on Facebook, or

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sending a single peso to someone via Gcash, all these deeds were of help to students across the country.

Even big media names such as Jessica Soho and Rappler’s MovePH were able to garner enough donations to aid hundreds of other students in need.

The pandemic has left humankind in shackles. Ask anyone, and usually, they’d admit that times are tough at the moment. It’s almost as if the whole world is on its knees.

However, as always, Filipino citizens do what they can to cope.

There is a fine line between romanticizing resilience and being proud of it, but one thing’s for sure: Filipinos will always fight to keep a smile on their faces, even when their gums are bleeding.

KAPAWA

8

How Blessings Bloom Amidst Adversity

by Rieden Denielle N. Cuadra and Grace Kay L. Milan

3

ATON INI:

LOCAL PICKS TO SUP

PORT DURING THE

Miles U. Guancia

PANDEMIC

acia poses in front Jose David Villagr

While it may be an inappropriate time to abandon the online world, there’s more beyond the boundary.

There’s more you can do to support yourself and others. So shut your phone, unbolt the windows, and lay your foundations. Here are three local businesses you need to check out—aton ini!

1. Village Market Located in Bacolod City, Village Market or Tienda Ta is a flea market perfectly fitting your local needs, offering anything from vegetables, fashion, and chow.

A collaboration of local entrepreneurs affected by the pandemic, Tienda Ta thrives and promises customers Al Fresco.

2. Hacienda Crafts Nature, community, and tradition are this place’s keys to installing furniture with its distinctive design. The company taps Negros Island artistry by producing high end-lamps, furniture, and furnishings from all sustainable natural materials.

3. Damgo Coffee Shop Settled in one of Silay City’s cozy corners, Damgo is your go-to café presenting the usual menu with a healthy twist. Making use of natural ingredients from artisan products, this place also supports fellow business, Billie Dog serving fancy-flavored sorbetes in a cup.

Indeed, we live most of our lives online. But whether it’s a local bazaar, shop, or café—remember that they’re yours.

F E AT U R E

What can I do for my country?

A question asked every day amongst global tragedy, Jose David Villagracia does his best to answer— by making it his mission to be an instrument of God’s blessing.

Launching six COVID-19 initiatives, he has helped hundreds of people along the way; some of which include jeepney drivers and farmers.

He states, “This pandemic brought us heartbreak. I realized I had to start helping as soon as I saw—because who else will help them if I turned the other cheek?

Though sad, we must never lose the ability to see light amidst the darkness. That through these heartbreaks, we must not cease to find breakthroughs.

“One thing that I could take away from the people I deal with is the fact that they could smile.

Despite their difficulties, heartbreaks, and losses, they could still smile, greet people, and hold on for another day.”

Despite being only 20 years old, his initiatives have created sparks uniting different organizations and churches towards one common cause—helping.

Encouraging the youth to also use their voices, he emphasizes, “Do not forget to inspire change. Be the change you want to see.”

us. of St. La Salle camp g on the University Villagracia Photo by Jose David

of the Miguel buildin

THE WRINKLED SHIRT Much like ironing a stubborn shirt crease, Bacolodnons have their fair share of wrinkles that haven’t been smoothed out—even when they’re pressed on for change.

An epitome of this is the knack for keenness in the mistakes of others. One wrong move and you could end up as the talk of the town. May it be a word mispronunciation, a slight mannerism, or the accidental unmute bonanza, trivial details become sharp knives in the hands of the judgmental.

Evolution and the people of Bacolod meet eye to eye when it comes to abiding by the cutthroat law of survival of the fittest.

Common in a classroom setting, those with eagle-

Aleia Nichole M. Tayo eyes would often watch over their classmates’ numbers. Upon finding out their score is lower than the others’, they’d resort to self-comfort via reasoning out. They’d look for a scapegoat, which would usually be trivial: Something that doesn’t stump on their genius, like a spelling error.

Lastly, the call to abolish clothesshaming might not have reached Bacolod because harassment is still alive and kicking.

Together with classic victim-blaming tropes, perpetrators are constantly getting away with gunning down women through inappropriate statements.

The only thing worse than these stubborn wrinkles is the vicious

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“change-undo” cycle they undergo: Their lifespan is limited to the period they’re trending, but when everything dies down, they head back to square one.

But even though the process is tedious, the choice for change is as easy as the wrinkled shirt dilemma.

There are always two options; ignore and accept the kink, or change the shirt.

Illustration by Mary Andrea S. Geolingo

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SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

The Other Side of the Academic Year

Illustration by Rizle M. Patopatin

the Elite

jewelirishbelascuain@gmail.com

Let’s face it—online class was never an option for quality education; it made the educational system harder than it already is.

Quarantine times— dreaming of online classes being easy because it seems the most compatible to individuals with busy schedules and who are always on the go took a huge twist. For starters, the realization—after enrolling in September— crossed their minds that getting more intimate to the virtual world was an actual nightmare.

We thought so because this method voids of face-to-face interaction, requires technological equipment, and consumes a lot of brainpower.

Challenges like these are what families must adjust to so that the children can strive as learners.

Indeed, you can agree that online classes are better than not having any. Amid the pandemic, students are allowed to access lessons made by virtual courses to continue their year.

However, mind you, there are thousands of willing children who are unprivileged and unprepared for the new

academic year. They do not have the means to enroll because this medium fails to provide a genuine education—with emphasis on convenience rather than critical thinking.

So, if you think that online classes are great, then try asking the students who didn’t enroll this year. I bet you unfolded a sad story.

TECH-SAVVY. Mayor Evelio Leonardia along with other officials spearheaded the launch of the Bacolod City COVID-19 Contact Tracing (BaC-Trac) system at the said city’s government center.

Bacolod implements BaC-Trac System Zerjemae C. Zaragosa

To alleviate the growing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) concerns, the local government authorities approved the use of Bacolod City COVID-19 Contact Tracing (BaCTrac) on Sep. 29.

Residents were prompted to register online in the BaC-Trac webpage, and will be given a virtual card that contained the holder’s

name, address, ID number, and a unique quick-response (QR) code.

“It’s very simple.

It’s free for everyone.

It is also accessible. [....]

You can have it printed out and then keep it in your wallet,” Ang said.

The QR code will be scanned at the entrance of every establishment and will serve as a digital logbook that records date and time of the visit.

9 Illustration by Eli T. Gozon

SERVICE FOR THE frontliners PEOPLE Ultimately, stress about their

Krisla Gail J. Batac

Striving to claim victory from a war that supersedes the human eye, the warriors of the frontline charge—without foreseeing what fate awaits in the future. With that said, we’re left to wonder: How are these warriors?

Public health work consists of the two: serving people and dealing with public health issues.

Both duties are already difficult to shoulder for some people. However, with the additional crisis brought by this pandemic, the weight of the work gets even heavier. The stress that they’re burdened with is not something to take lightly. In order to handle these tasks on a daily basis, frontliners must be mentally strong.

Then again, there are more factors to the stress that public health workers get. On one hand, it could come from the exhaustion from work; on the other, it could come from worrying about their livelihood. Even before the pandemic, some people were already struggling to get by.

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livelihood. On top of the stress from their jobs, they worry whether their labor equals the pay. Financial assistance equates to prioritizing our frontliners’ mental health. After all, it boils down to weighing if the pay is worth the stress.

They may be our family or close friends— even neighbors if you’re friendly enough. At the end of the day, they’re still people who come home exhausted from the pressure they endure at work. By supporting our frontliners, we can give them the mental strength that they need to effectively fight against COVID-19.

Taking the time to make them feel appreciated and supported will boost their spirits. As the ones who care for them, we should also be there for them during times when they need it most—of course, with social distancing.

The war doesn’t seem like it’s ending any time soon—we can’t afford to lose our soldiers by neglecting their mental wellbeing.

KAPAWA

10

NEWS

Kapamilya bids farewell after 74 years of service Anna Sophia C. Galzote Marking its last day on television, ABS-CBN Bacolod simultaneously aired its final broadcast with other local stations around the Philippines on Aug. 28 after 70 members of the House of Representatives denied the franchise bid of the network.

Following the shutdown of the media giant, the local broadcast station in Bacolod City laid off 81 employees on Aug. 31 as part of the retrenchment program.

“As much as it hurts us to implement this retrenchment program, this is the only way to ensurethe

SOLIDARITY. Various sectors converged in front of the ABS-CBN Bacolod station to express their support to the fallen media giant.

Photo by Glazyl Yulo Masculino

continued employment of the rest of our Kapamilya,” stated ABS-CBN Bacolod Management.

To show support for ABS-CBN’s

unemployed workers as well as press freedom, Bacolodnons drove through the city’s major thoroughfares and held a solidarity rally in front of

the local broadcast station.

Aside from that, a “Rosary Democracy” led

by Bacolod Bishop Patricio Buzon took place in front of the Bishop’s House in support of the network.

ABS-CBN Bacolod News Chief Romeo emotionally thanked the

Bacolod residents for their presence and support to the network during the duration of the rallies.

“Thank you for supporting us, even if we don’t know all of you,” Subaldo expressed in an interview with the Visayan Daily Star.

Quinta floods away Neg. Occ. crops, livestock Angeli M. Geroso

LEGACY. Former Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. was laid to rest at Sagay City; however, his deeds will continue to live in the hearts of many Negrosanons. Photo by Richard Malihan

Senate esteems late Gov. Marañon Jr. Sam Hervey T. Sabordo and Lou Marcial M. Cuesta

To commemorate the legacy that was left behind, the senate paid tribute to the passing of former Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. through the Senate Resolution No. 544 on Oct. 13.

Former Gov. Marañon, who was also a representative of the second district of Negros Occidental in the 10th, 11th, and 12th congresses, died aged 84 at the Riverside Medical Center in Bacolod City on Oct. 1 due to cardiac complications.

“He was a visionary who changed Negros,” stated Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri during the senate’s virtual session.

In addition, the senate lauded Marañon’s notable achievements such as the integration of the two Negros provinces, the declaration of Negros Occidental as a “coalfree” and a renewable energy province, as well as the establishment of the Sagay Marine Reserve that covered 32,000 hectares of the Visayan Sea.

“He really turned Negros Occidental to a major ecotourism site, especially the Sagay Marine Reserve, which is possibly one of the most beautiful places in the country, with its pristine waters, white sand, and diverse aquatic life,” added Zubiri.

Marañon, prior to being a public servant, used to be a farmer and an engineer before being the councilor of Sagay on 1964; he was then elected as vice mayor and eventually became the mayor of Sagay until 2010.

Leaving destruction in its wake, the onslaught of Typhoon Quinta, internationally known as Molave, left at least 36 PHP million worth of damage to crops and livestocks in Negros Occidental as of Oct. 30.

An initial assessment from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist presented an estimated 35 PHP million in agricultural losses from the destruction brought by the heavy floods of Quinta to the hectares of rice fields and other crops in the cities of Sipalay, Cadiz, and Bago, along with the municipalities of Hinobaan, Moises

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Padilla, and Isabela.

In addition, the Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) also reported that the aftermath of the deluge cost more than 1 PHP million worth of damage to livestocks in the cities of Bago and La Carlota, as well as the municipalities of Hinobaan, Isabela, Moises Padilla, Binalbagan, Valladolid, and San Enrique.

Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Renante Decena stated that the majority of farm animals such as cows, carabaos, gamefowls, pigs, and goats died due to drowning.

SPORTS

Bacolodnon bronze in international gymnastics competition

KAPAWA INTERNATIONAL GM Antonio Competes in 15th Malaysian Chess Festival 2018 | Photo by Manila Bulletin

GM Antonio dominates virtual chessboard in 1st PCAP qualifiers Yamana D. Montero Possessing high-caliber skills, Grandmaster Rogelio Antonio Jr. triumphed against more than 300 participants during the first online chess qualifying tournament of the Professional Chess Association of the Philippines (PCAP) on Oct. 17, from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

With 349 players from around the country, the 58 year-old grandmaster will go down in history as the first ever champion of the PCAP online qualifiers with 10.5 points, followed GM Mark Paragua, who by initially tied with Antonio but lost to the tiebreaker, settling for 2nd place, and FIDE master Arden Reyes who clinched the 3rd spot with 10 points.

“Yung pangarap ko kasi ang maturuan natin ang mga bata, iyon ang gusto kong maiwan

na legacy, na maishare ko ang talent ko. […] Para sa kabataan naman lahat ng ito (My dream is to teach the youth, that is the legacy I want to leave behind, to share my talent. […] After all, these are all for them),” GM Antonio expressed in an interview after claiming the championship title.

Southeast Asia’s professional chess league pioneer planned to hold three chess conferences for the year 2021 in the second weeks of January, May, and September, respectively, following the approval of its formation from the Games and Amusements Board (GAB).

“PCAP will be to chess what the PBA and NBA are to basketball,” said Atty.

Paul Elauria, the PCAP founding commissioner who conceived the idea of forging the association a few years back.

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Giollan Henry P. Demaulo

Bacolod City native Kiana Alagaban competed Marie Alagaban bagged alongside fellow bronze in the International Bacolodnons Matthea Rhythmic Inter-Club Given Efenio and

PCAP arranged Online 2020 gymnastics Bianca Isabelle Celis, the tryouts to balance the competition hosted by who earned gold and composition of teams Mexico on Oct. 11–27. bronze, respectively, and managed the selection

Alagaban of in their categories. through lichess.org, a Bacolod Tay Tung High “We hope to free online chess server, School (BTTHS) earned join more competitions observing the 12-round bronze in the ball category like this because I need Swiss system with time of the 16-and-up division. the exposure and training controls of three minutes “This only in preparation to joining and two seconds, as the shows that we can the National Team,” players dueled through compete in rhythmic Alagaban added as she will a virtual chessboard. gymnastics at the be further evaluated by the

The next PCAP international scene,” said team on March or April chess qualifiers are Coach Kris Joy Leeping in the upcoming year. scheduled for Nov. 14, who is also a MAPEH For Alagaban, 2020. teacher at Negros Coach Leeping’s help Occidental High School. and guidance really

Alagaban stated allowed them to come that it was a complete up with a routine that is struggle to get back to worthy of their medals. training and being in Moreover, the shape during quarantine. team will join another

“The challenges competition in the next along the way were month in South Africa, the training during followed by another in the pandemic [after] Russia, albeit the tough coming from a [six]- competition according month hiatus,” said to Coach Leeping who Alagaban when asked believed that it would be a about the challenges great venue for exposure of the competition. and training.

PRIDE. Kiana Alagaban stands bearing her medals from the International Rhythmic Inter-Club 2020 Gymnastics Competitiin

KAPAWA

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KAPAWA

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SPORTS

THE DEATH OF SPORTS?

“

Risking the health of players is not an option, especially when no precautions are taken into consideration.

mikkodemaulo2003@gmail.com

COVID-19 has paused all life as we know it, and sports is enduring its challenges.

In Negros Occidental, this has stopped all major contact sporting events such as the notable Negros Occidental Private Schools

Sports Cultural Educational Association (NOPSSCEA) with their football and basketball tournaments.

With this, concerns regarding the mandatory postponement of events began to surface.

Will sports prevail in this dilemma? To simplify our answer, sports must postpone its operations

ART Black belt taekwandoins exhibit their skills . Photo by Choi Hong-Hi (South Korea 1988).

EIGHT MORE YEARS?

“

Spor-think

just as every other sector.

Risking the health of players is not an option, especially when no precautions are taken into consideration. When health considerations are hastily enforced the lives of athletes may be placed in jeopardy.

However, some athletes and officials depended on these events for their income. We believe that tournament managers should take the athlete’s and official’s safety seriously and make them as their top priority.

For example, in Cebu, boxing matches are held in a contained “bubble” space with COVID-19 tests

Illustration by Cassel Dave

done beforehand. Another model would be the gymnastics competitions which are held online.

COVID-19 has crippled the sporting community; however, it

does not write death for sports and its events, rather it expects survival for both athletes and officials. After all, when these subsides, sports will become relevant once again.

Ben Joseph L. Maido

It’s TEY-kwon-dough.

Not TIE-kwon-dough.

If Filipinos think of Korea, it has been etched into their minds that it is about K-Pop or K-drama.

However, the Land of the Morning Calm embedded its culture to the map of the world earlier in its history back in the 1940s.

With 20 years left until it’s centenary, taekwondo is wellknown in the Pearl of the Orient; yet the question is: has it earned the respect it deserves?

It is set apart from other martial arts where brute

force isn’t everything; precision is. As the Visayan Taekwondo Sensei Windell Billones uttered, “It’s more than just a skill; it’s a culture.” Yet as Billiones expressed, Filipinos continue to disrespect the craft.

Some see martial artists as laughingstock.

Eighty years have passed, and taekwondo hasn’t obtained the reverence it deserves. As K-pop and its beauty are hailed, taekwondo shouldn’t wait for its turn; certainly not eighty years more.

POSTPONED Different officials holds a meeting regarding the Panaad sa Neg Occ. Festival. Photo by Sunstar Bacolod

STRONGER THAN THE PANDEMIC Ben Joseph L. Maido What was once gray, is now feuille morte; the empty roads fade out of existence as dead leaves cover the surface.

Panaad Park and Stadium feels like a different dimension as dust and dirt paint the walls.

Alternate universe it seemed when the month of April came, and

bustling streets, waves of crowds, nor flashing lights were nowhere to be found. Though all along, it was never a different dimension. It was just the pandemic that once again ruined tradition.

For the first time in 27 years, Panaad sa Negros Festival was cancelled.

Its sports events, of course, were

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not exempted. The puddle that shielded the soccer stadium, and the moss that lived under the swimming pools testified the somber aura of the place.

As the deafening silence roam the park, may the joy that once echoed the walls of the stadium serve as hope that no pandemic can ruin the Negrosanon spirit.