T H E O F F I C I A L S T U D E N T P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES - MANILA V O L U M E 3 1 • I S S U E 3 • O C T. 2 6 , 2 0 1 7
NEWS
04
FEATURES
07
CULTURE
06
OPINION
10
STUDENT DEMOCRACY UNDER THREAT REKULEK: THREE DECADES OF SERVING THE STUDENTS AND THE PEOPLE THE TRUTH IS... SIKHAY*
PLUMA 02 NEWS
02 NEWS
VOLUME 31 • ISSUE 3 O C T. 2 6 , 2 0 1 7
PLUMA
Isang Pagbabalik-tanaw sa Tatlong Dekadang Pamamahayag ng The Manila Collegian LEAH ROSE FIGUEROA PARAS AT LIAMSON ACEDERA GATAPIA
Sa loob ng tatlumpung taon, natunghayan ang naging papel ng The Manila Collegian sa pagmulat sa kaisipan ng mga Iskolar ng Bayan sa loob at labas ng pamantasan. Mula nang maitatag ang institusyon noong 1987, makikitang naging kaagapay ito sa pagdodokumento ng mga kaganapang humubog at nakapagpabago sa lipunan. Magpahanggang sa kasalukuyan ay nananatili itong kaisa sa pakikibaka ng sambayanan sa pamamagitan ng progresibong pagkilos at pamamahayag ng katotohanan. Bilang paggunita sa mayamang kasaysayan ng institusyon, narito ang ilan sa mga piling artikulong nailimbag sa pahayagan na masasabing tumatak sa isip at puso kapwa ng mga mambabasa at manunulat ng The Manila Collegian.
SA LOOB NG PAMANTASAN Isa sa mga pinakaunang artikulong naisulat sa The Manila Collegian ay ang nagdedetalye ng pagkakatatag nito bilang isang pahayagang pangkampus. Sa ilalim ng pamumuno ni Chancellor Conrado Lorenzo noong 1987, nakatanggap ang pahayagan ng suportang pinansiyal upang manatili itong nasa sirkulasyon. Ang hiling ni Chancellor Lorenzo na maging instrumento ito ng katotohanan at demokrasya at maging sandigan ng mga mag-aaral ang siyang sinisikap isabuhay ng institusyon. Kabilang sa mga pangunahing mandato ng MKule ay ang pagsubaybay sa konseho at pagtiyak na ginagampanan nito ang tungkulin na pagsilbihan ang interes ng mga mag-aaral.. Sa kaunaunahan nitong coverage ng University Student Council Elections noong 1988, nasaksihan ng MKule ang pagtaas ng voter’s turnout mula 50% patungong 54% at ang pagsibol ng bagong partidong nagngangalang BUKLOD
education (GE) courses sa tatlong larang ng kaalaman, na siyang ikinabahala ng ilang departamento sa UPM sapagkat hindi masyadong nabigyang-halaga ng RGEP ang mga asignatura ukol sa sining at agham panlipunan.
humiling ng karagdagang badyet para sa edukasyon. Ngunit sa kabila ng masikhay na panawagan ng mga Iskolar, naipatupad pa rin ang STFAP at sa loob ng maraming taon ay nagsilbing pabigat sa bayarin ng mga estudyante.
Higit pa rito, naging malaking dagok din sa mga estudyante ang pagpapatupad ng Return Service Agreement (RSA) sa mga kursong pangkalusugan ng UPM noong Disyembre 2009. Bagama’t ang hangarin nito’y pigilan ang malawakang pag-alis ng mga health workers papuntang ibang bansa, hindi naging maka-estudyante ang naging implementasyon nito sapagkat ang paglabag sa kontratang ito Subalit sa kabila nito, nagpatuloy ay may kaakibat na multa at kapinsalaan. pa rin ang pagtaas ng mga bayarin sa unibersidad. Ang ‘di maka- Ang katayuan ng UPM bilang sentro estudyanteng paniningil ng rental fee ng medisina at agham pangkalusugan sa paggamit ng mga espasyo at utilities ay sinubok din ng mga panukala at sa UP Manila noong 1998 ay umiiral pa polisiyang baluktot at mapaniil. rin hanggang ngayon. Katuwiran ng administrasyon, ang dagdag-singil na Partikular na rito ay ang planong ito ay kailangan para sa pagpapatuloy pagsasapribado ng UP Manila Philippine General Hospital (UPMng operasyon ng mga pasilidad. Ngunit giit ng mga mag-aaral, hindi PGH) sa ilalim ng pamamahala ni nila dapat maging pasanin ang Pangulong Fidel V. Ramos. Ang House pagpapasaayos na ito dahil ito’y Bill (HB) 7956, na hakbang ng gobyerno upang ihiwalay ang PGH mula sa UP ay tungkulin ng estado. tinutulan ng mga mag-aaral at ng mga Noong Nobyembre 2002, naipatupad manggagawa ng UP Manila. Maraming naman ang National Service Training kampanya ang inilunsad upang ipaalam Program (NSTP) bilang tugon sa mga sa karamihan ang implikasyon ng HB anomalyang kakabit ng Reserve Officers’ 7956 sa mga pasyente at empleyado Training Corps (ROTC). Sa paglabas ng PGH na lubos na maaapektuhan. ng mga balita ukol sa pang-aabuso ng mga opisyal ng ROTC sa mga kadete, Natunghayan din ng The Manila bumalangkas ng bagong kurikulum Collegian ang pagtindig ng mga ang UP na naging epektibo noong Iskolar ng Bayan upang ipaglaban ang ikalawang semestre ng AY 2001-2002. kanilang mga karapatan. Isa na rito Alinsabay nito ay nagkaroon ng dagdag- ay ang pagtutol sa implementasyon singil na P375 upang makapagpatala ng Socialized Tuition and Financial Program (STFAP). ang mga estudyante sa NSTP. Assistance Isa pa sa mga natunghayang pagbabago sa kurikulum ay ang pag-apruba Noong Nobyembre 16, 1989, nagtipon sa Revitalized General Education ang higit 4,000 mag-aaral mula sa Program o RGEP noong Enero 2002. Sa iba’t ibang UP unit sa Padre Faura programang ito, hinati ang mga general upang kondenahin ang STFAP at
Isa sa mga naging biktima ng nasabing polisiya ay ang 16 taong gulang na mag-aaral ng Behavioral Sciences na si Kristel Tejada. Dahilan ng hindi makabayad ng matrikula si Tejada at dahil sa “no late payment policy” ng UP, pinagbawalan siyang makapag-enroll sa unibersidad, na bagay na sinasabing rason ng kaniyang pagpapakamatay noong Marso 15, 2013. Bunga ng sinapit na trahedya ni Tejada at samasamang paglaban ng mga Iskolar ng Bayan, sinuspinde ni UP President Alfredo Pascual ang polisiyang “no late payment” noong Marso 19 upang bigyang-daan ang mga estudyanteng itinatawid ang kanilang pag-aaral sa kabila ng hirap ng buhay.
na naging katunggali ng naghahari noong partido na KATIPUNAN. Nakuha ng BUKLOD ang mayorya ng councilor seats (4 sa 6) samantalang nakuha naman ng KATIPUNAN ang tagapangulo, ikalawang tagapangulo, at ang natitirang councilor seats. Kaisa rin ang MKule sa pagdiriwang ng UP Manila noong 1992 ng ika-10 taon nitong anibersaryo bilang isang hiwalay na yunit ng UP System. Idinaos ng halos dalawang buwan ang mga aktibidad na nagpapamalas ng kahusayang pangakademiko ng UP Manila sa larangan ng medisina at agham pangkalusugan.
SA PILING NG MASA
Higit pa sa pagdodokumento at pagsusuri sa mga pangyayari sa loob ng unibersidad, sinisikap din ng institusyon na bigyang-linaw ang mga kaganapang pambansa at panlabas. Sa pambansang antas, nagsilbing saksi ang pahayagan sa mga panawagang paalisin sa puwesto si Pangulong Joseph “Erap” Estrada noong Enero 2001 alinsunod ng mga alegasyon ng kaniyang korupsyon at katiwalian sa gobyerno. Pakiusap ng masa, litisin at patalsikin ang presidente. Sa pamamagitan ng mga pagkilos sa porma ng snake rally, mga mass vigil, Lakbayan sa Mendiola, at pagdalo sa People Power Launch sa EDSA, lumakas ang pagpapahiwatig at paghikayat sa mga kabataan na sumapi sa malakawang protesta laban kay Estrada. CONTINUED ON P.3
MKULE THROUGH THE YEARS...
1987
1988-1991
1992
NEWS 03
VOLUME 31 • ISSUE 3 O C T. 2 6 , 2 0 1 7
PLUMA
| FROM P.2
Sa likod ng bawat artikulo, ay mga kuwento ng pakikibaka ng mamamayan, at ng mga isyung sumasalamin sa lipunan. Sa pamamagitan ng mga ito, kasama na ng masang Pilipino ang The Manila Collegian sa pagtala ng kasaysayan ng bansa. Makikita ito sa paglimbag ng pahayagan ng mga artikulo ukol sa mga kaganapang pambansa tulad ng pakikilahok sa National Walk-Out ng mga estudyante sa klase, pakikibaka sa Mendiola, at pagproprotesta laban sa charter change o cha-cha ng iba’t ibang mga sektor ng lipunan. Kasabay ng paglathala ay ang hindi pagkalimot sa pagsubaybay sa mga isyu sa labas ng bansa, tulad ng Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) na pinirmahan nila US Ambassador Thomas Hubbard, at ng kalihim ng Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) na si Domingo Siazon noong Pebrero 10, 1994. Nakalahad sa VFA na maaaring gamitin ng Amerika ang mga pantalan at pasilidad ng bansa bilang base militar. Higit pa rito, may criminal immunity ang mga sundalo at empleyado ng Amerika habang sila ay nagtratrabaho sa Pilipinas. Maraming posibleng kalabasan ang pagpirma ng kasunduan, kung saan isa na rito ang mas maluwag na pagpasok ng mga dayuhan sa ating bayan. Hindi natatapos sa pagsulat ang paghimok ng kabataan upang labanan at kondenahin ang imperyalistang Amerika. Noong Pebrero 13, 2003 sa Taft Avenue, kinondena ng mga estudyante at ng mga militanteng grupo tulad ng Katipunan Party Alliance at Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI) ang binabalak na pag-atake ng Estados Unidos sa Iraq. Giit ng karamihan, ang giyera ng US ay lubhang makakaapekto sa pamumuhay at kabuhayan ng mga Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW).
PAMAGAT NG ARTIKULO
MANUNULAT
TOMO AT BILANG
PETSA NG PAGKALATHALA
Ajeet-Victor Salangsang Panemanglor
Tomo 15 Blg. 9
Enero 22, 2002
The News Team
Tomo 1 Blg. 1
Oktubre 27, 1987
Carla Paras
Tomo 1 Blg. 10
Hulyo 26, 1988
Jennifer Twu, Myra-lyn Solano, at Je Tan
Tomo 3 Blg. 1
Nobyembre 23, 1989
UPM ipinagdiriwang ang ika-sampung taon
Elton John Jimenez
Tomo 6 Blg. 6
Oktubre 2, 1992
No to HB 7956 privatization
Mani Thesa Q. Pena
Tomo 11 Blg. 2
Agosto 5, 1997
Rental fee hike looms
Regino Angeles
Tomo 12 Blg. 8
Nobyembre 23, 1988
VFA: A Treaty of Renewal and a Threat to RP Sovereignty
The News Team
Tomo 14 Blg. 8
Marso 26, 1998
John Wilfred Sabuya at Kristian Carmen Julao
Tomo 14 Blg. 8
Disyembre 11, 2000
The News Team
Tomo 15 Blg. 3
Agosto 13, 2001
Rhea Rempillo Barua
Tomo 16 Blg. 5
Nobyembre 22, 2002
Abraham Dino Genuino II
Tomo 16 Blg 10
Pebrero 19, 2003
Vicson Aypa Mabanglo
Tomo 23 Blg. 5-6
Hulyo 23, 2009
Angelo Luna Murillo
Tomo 23 Blg. 14
Disyembre 15, 2009
Allana Ruth Garcia Dela Peña
Tomo 23 Blg. 19-20
Marso 10, 2010
The News Team
Tomo 26 Blg. 18-19
Marso 25, 2013
RGEP approved in UPM New Paper Assured of Full Support Elections ’88: An Assessment Thousands join rally
More sectors unite to press for Erap’s ouster
Cadets expose ROTC Anomalies UPM fully implements NSTP Peace rallies condemn US war against Iraq YS Mob Protests against Cha-cha Ampatuan Massacre Spurs UPM-wide Condemnation Return Service for UPM Health Colleges Ratified First year BehSci student commits suicide
Pigura 1. Mga artikulong ginamit para sa pananaliksik
Higit pa rito, kaagapay din ang institusyon sa mga adbokasiya ng pagpapalaganap ng hustisya tulad ng pakikiisa sa mga biktima ng media repression. Halimbawa nito ang nangyaring Ampatuan Massacre, noong Nobyembre 23, 2009. Tinaguriang “the deadliest event for journalists in history” ang nangyaring trahedya kung saan higit 34 na mamamahayag ang pinaslang ng mga armadong puwersa sa Maguindanao. “No lover of democracy will just accept and forget the brutal massacre in Ampatuan, Maguindanao, and no seeker of justice will remain complacent and silent at lethargy and indecisiveness of our government in
solving the issue”, wika ng noo’y USC Chairperson Ramon Guinto. Bilang pagkondena sa trahedya sa Ampatuan, Maguindanao, nagkaroon ng pagtitipon sa harap ng Oblation ang mga magaaral ng UPM upang ipanalangin ang mga biktima ng masaker na walang pakundangang pinatay gawa ng pagkalap ng katotohanan. Naitala na ng kasaysayan na malaki at mahalaga ang papel ng mga estudyanteng mamamahayag, lalo na sa pagpapa-abot sa mga kapwa magaaral ng mga realidad ng mundong ginagalawan, at ang mga kritikal na isyu na sumasaklaw rito. Gayunpaman, bilang publikasyon ng pamantasan, ang pagpupumiglas ng masa ay
dapat maipahatid, maramdaman, at maipaunawa sa mga mag-aaral, upang mas mapaglingkuran ang bayang kanyang pinagsisilbihan. Mula noon hanggang ngayon, bahagi na ang The Manila Collegian sa pagbibigay ng boses sa mag-aaral at pagtatala ng kasaysayan. Iilan lamang ang mga artikulong nabanggit sa mga patunay ng paglilingkod ng The Manila Collegian sa mga Iskolar ng bayan at sa masa sa pamamagitan ng serbisyong nilinang at hinubog ng pakikibaka at paglubog sa mga isyung panlipunan.
MKULE THROUGH THE YEARS...
1993-1994
1995-1996
1997-1999
NEWS
VOLUME 31 • ISSUE 3 O C T. 2 6 , 2 0 1 7
Student democracy under threat
Various youth groups decry abusive administration ROMEO EARNEST GERIAL FUNTILA III
Student councils and publications have recently been reported to experience instances of intimidation and attacks from their respective school administrations.
NEWS DOSE DAGDAG PONDO SA OSPITAL NG BAYAN (PART 3/3) ARTHUR GERALD BANTILAN QUIRANTE Year
UP System Budget
PGH Budget
% Budget of PGH
PGH Add'l Budget
2012
5.75 B
1.48 B
25.74
2013
9.53 B
1.99 B
20.88
2014
9.37 B
1.99 B
21.24
2015
13.14 B
2.06 B
15.68
3.15 B7 20 M8
2016
11.81 B
2.1 B
17.78
30 M3 12 M4 6M5 10M6
2017
13.51 B
2.6 B
19.25
95 M1 24 M2
2018
14.4 B
2.73 B
18.96
Table 1. Ito ang taunang badyet ng Philippine General Hospital (PGH) sa nakaraang limang taon. Nakalakip sa ‘PGH Budget’ and Personal Services, MOOE, at CO. Mula naman sa badyet ng ‘Locally-funded projects’ ang natatanggap na karagdagang salapi ng ospital.
Sa nakalipas na limang taon, hirap pa rin ang “Ospital ng Bayan” na itaas ang kalidad ng serbisyo sa libu-libo nitong pasyente dala ng limitasyon sa pondo. Habang tumataas at dumarami ang mga gastusin ng mga pasyente, hindi pa rin natutugunan ng gobyerno ang pagbibigay ng mas mataas na pondo sa ospital para sa ikauunlad nito. 1 – Pagpapaayos at rehabilitasyon ng gas piping system, perimeter fence at entrance gates, cistern tank, ORMAT, pagpapaayos ng locker rooms at comfort rooms, sirasirang kisame, at muling pagpipintura ng RCB-OR
Impended Autonomy The LPU Independent Sentinel, the official student publication of the Lyceum of the Philippines University – Manila reported last October 7 that the school administration had been imposing different policies and directives that serve as obstacles to the operation of the publication such as delaying the application process for the institution, charging accusations pertaining to the misuse of funds and possessing an incapacity to function. Consequently, the Sentinel’s former editor-in-chief, Jessica Sy, claimed that the aforementioned accusations are exceedingly counterfactual, as the Sentinel had won countless awards in its 32-year history. Moreover, the publication even currently possesses accolades from the Catholic Mass Media Awards and the Gawad Inkstitution, two prominently known award-giving bodies. Additionally, the editor-in-chief added that it had also made appearances in various events from the Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), among others. In response to this, College Editors Guild of the Philippines –Metro Manila (CEGP - MM) Chairperson Jose Lorenzo Lanuza manifested, “The said reorganization of the LPU Independent Sentinel by the administration is an underhanded move to gain control of the publication, censor its freedom, and transform it into a mere 'vanity newspapers' of the LPU.”
Likewise, the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) Manila official student publication, The Catalyst, was preempted and constrained by the administration. On the other hand, institutions in PUP Manila also cited a series of intrusion from the administration, demeaning democratic rights of the students. Further attacks manifested in the replacement of the incumbent student government from position with a representative appointed by the administration, and the postponement of student council elections. Student offices and spaces were closed off, a compulsory uniform rule was implemented, and a new set of school fees were reinforced. Aside from these, police forces were stationed within the campus.
Looming Fascism Meanwhile, Lanuza stressed that such incidences are not mere isolated predicaments. “Attacks on campus press freedom are only a manifestation of intensifying state fascism. You could say that campus press repression is a microcosm of press freedom in general. Conflict of interests between the state and the Filipino masses forces the former to repress and subjugate the latter”, he expounded. Furthermore, U.P. Solidaridad President Daniel Boone’s statement asserted the significance of the linkage between all ensuing campus press repressions. “Systematic ang lahat ng nangyayaring
pag-atake sa campus press. Sa LPU, ganito ang nangyayari. Sa PUP, ipinasara rin ang The Catalyst sa halos parehong dahilan. Dito sa atin sa UP, walang pondo ang mga student pubs dahil hindi nangolekta student fund ang UP admin. Pinagbabangga ang interes ng students for free tuition at ang rights ng student publications na makapag-operate nang matiwasay.” In line with this, Campus Journalism Act of 1991, was implemented for the purpose of “providing for the development and promotion of campus journalism and for other purposes.” Essentially, it strives to uphold the freedom of the press even at the university level. R.A. 7079 is implemented through the subsidy of the Department of Education, with the Education Secretary authorized to amend the premises of the said act. Notwithstanding a supposed firm trusteeship of such an act, Boone stated, “...walang matinong batas na nagpoprotekta sa campus press freedom natin at sa mga student publications for that matter. Napatunayan na natin na itong Campus Journalism Act of 1991 ay walang pangil at maraming loopholes, kung kaya naman hindi talaga nito legitimately napoprotektahan ‘yung mga karapatan natin bilang campus journalists.” “With this, CEGP has been holding forums, educational discussions, and releasing statements to support and demand for the rights of students,” Lanuza added.
2 - Pagpapaayos at pintura ng exterior wall, pagpapalit ng steel casement windows, kisame, pasilyo at hagdan 3 - Pagpapaayos ng Joaquin Gonzales Hall, Phase II 4 - Muling pag-aayos ng bubong at mga gawaing sibil sa cancer ward
MKULE THROUGH THE YEARS...
5 - Tulong sa mahihirap na pasyente 6 - Tulong sa mahihirap na pasyenteng may kanser 7 - Pagkakaroon at pag-upgrade ng iba’t ibang kagamitan sa ospital 8 - Pagpapaayos ng Joaquin Gonzales Building, Phase I
Sanggunian: Department of Budget and Management
2002-2004
2004-2005
2005-2006
e l u K M f o s r a e Y 0 3 n O DANILO L. CONCEPCION UP President
National Chairperson, UP Solidaridad
Shaped by Struggles, an Instrument for Progress
for change, as your alumni and the UP community likewise count upon.
I congratulate the editors, staff, and alumni of The Manila Collegian, or MKule as it is fondly called, on the occasion of its 30th anniversary celebration.
Our charter, the UP Charter of 2008 or Republic Act 9500, mandates UP to “provide opportunities for training and learning in leadership, responsible citizenship, and the development of democratic values, institutions, and practice through academic and nonacademic programs, including sports and enhancement of nationalism and national identity.” This highlights our shared roles, as UP officials and as media practitioners, scholars, and citizens, inside and beyond the University.
I join you in commemorating three decades of continuing relevance and service to the nation as the University of the Philippines Manila’s official student publication. I am grateful to be part of your milestone event, knowing that The Manila Collegian we have today has been shaped by the UP Manila Iskolar ng Bayan and the people’s struggles, and that it carries on with its mission of providing timely, intelligent, and assertive articulation of the issues that matter to its publishers and readers, no other than the Iskolar ng Bayan and the Filipino people. Throughout its 30 years of existence, MKule has not only published news, art forms, commentaries, and recommendations that aim to address important concerns within and beyond the University. It has also participated in actions that benefit UP students and the general public, such as issue-based forums, protests, and campaigns for higher state subsidies for the health and education sectors, to mention a few. You see, I share with you an eye for detail and a heart for others, especially for the disadvantaged, being a campus journalist myself way back in 1974, an editorial board member, a radio program host, a professor, and now, the president of UP. So, I hope to keep seeing MKule passionately fulfilling its roles as the Iskolar ng Bayan’s chronicler of events, herald of truth, and instrument
During my Investiture as UP President last September 20, I stated my desire for finding our common ground, an enabling environment, rather than a battleground, for us to be able to teach, study, and work productively together, with the University’s and the nation’s interests in mind. Your theme "MKule Pearl: Stories Shaped By Struggles" provides a common ground for us to pursue as co-workers the development of inquisitive, discerning, and creative minds that choose to uphold what is right and just. With this, I commend you for bringing together different generations of scholars from the UP Manila campus press and for staying true to the mandates of the The Manila Collegian and of the University. May The Manila Collegian continue to be shaped by struggles and serve as a reliable instrument for genuine development.
Maligaya at makabuluhang pagdiriwang! Mabuhay tayong lahat!
MKULE THROUGH THE YEARS...
2006-2007
JOHN DANIEL F. BOONE
2008-2009
Hindi madali ang maging isang manunulat para sa isang pahayagang pang-kampus. Inaasahan sa bawat kasapi ng institusyon na balansehin ang oras para sa mga gawaing pangakademiko at ang pagtatrabaho para sa pahayagan. Ito ang kahanga-hanga sa The Manila Collegian: naipagsasabay ng mga kasapi nito ang pag-aaral at paggaod para sa pahayagan. Bukod pa rito, nagagampanan ng The Manila Collegian ang tungkulin nito bilang opisyal na pahayagan ng mga magaaral ng UP Manila na magpalaganap ng impormasyon sa loob ng kampus, samantalang ginagampanan ang isa pa nitong tungkulin bilang alternatibong midya na tumurol ng kritikal na linya sa mga isyung pinag-uusapan sa buong bansa. Sa loob ng 30 taon, nailathala sa mga pahina ng The Manila Collegian ang mga mahahalagang isyung pinaguusapan sa loob at labas ng UP Manila — mula sa pagpapalayas sa mga tambayan sa mga organisasyon at kawalan ng pasilidad sa sattelite campuses sa Palo at Koronadal, hanggang sa pagtaas ng bayarin at matrikula na humantong pa sa mapait na pagkamatay ni Kristel Tejada. Nakatunghay din
ang The Manila Collegian sa lahat ng nagaganap sa labas ng kampus. Hindi mawawala sa pahayagan ang suliraning kinakaharap ng mga Lumad at iba pang pambansang minorya, dumaraming bilang ng pinapaslang sa war-on-drugs, at higit sa lahat ang napipintong muling pagdedeklara ng batas militar sa buong kapuluan. Tunay na kahanga-hanga ang husay ng mga artikulong inilalathala rito: matalas ang linya ng pagtalakay sa mga isyu, matapang ang komentaryo, nakakaengganyong buklatin ang mga pahina at basahin ang mga artikulo. Sa susunod pang mga taon, hamon sa The Manila Collegian at mga gumagaod para rito na ipagpatuloy ang nakaugaliang husay at higitan ang lahat ng mga nauna. Dagdag na tungkulin din ang paglaban sa fake news at mga kasinungalingang ipinalalaganap ng mga nasa kapangyarihan. Ang lahat ng ito ay matapang na dapat harapin ng susunod na henerasyon ng hahawak sa Editorial Board ng pahayagan. Ito ang mandato ng mga mag-aaral. Ito ang mandato sa bawat manunulat sa mga pahayagang pang-kampus. Hindi ito madali, ngunit dapat kayanin. Para sa unibersidad at para sa bayan.
TRISTAN NATHANIEL C. RAMOS, DDM, MPH Director, Office of Student Affairs It was 1987 when I first set foot on the grounds of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), UP Manila as a freshman student and I can still vividly remember how everything was during that time. Many things have definitely changed around the campus but the iconic buildings of UP Manila have remained almost the same including the CAS and the old Dentistry building (now the Museum of a History of Ideas) among others. I did not know that it is in that same year that MKule was born and just like the old buildings of UP Manila, you had withstood the test of time and presently continues to provide excellent service. Year in year out, the sincerity to provide the truth and honest opinions
to our students and other constituents had made your organization stronger and relevant. With your commitment, the UP Manila community has gained a lot and made the students aware of their roles as Isko and Iska. The Office of Student Affairs would like to extend its heartiest congratulations to you for completing 30 glorious years of success and unselfish service. It is my privilege and honor to be at the helm of the OSA as you reach this milestone. Happy 30th anniversary and I wish you more success!
MABUHAY!
06 CULTURE
The Truth Is... Revisiting the Impact of The Manila Collegian’s Motto JOHN VHERLIN CANLAS MAGDAY
MAGNA EST VERITAS ET PRAEVALEBIT. If you are a student from UP Manila, you would know that this Latin sentence is the motto of The Manila Collegian, or “MKule,” – the campus’ official student publication. If you are an avid reader, or a member – past or present - of this institution, you would even know what it means if translated into the English vernacular. The truth is mighty and shall prevail. Simple yet striking. Elaborate in form, but straightforward in substance. This is how MKule wanted to represent itself not just to the studentry, but also to the people, through its motto. And through the tides of time, the MKule motto has been consistently reflective of what this institution always stands for – THE TRUTH. Nothing more, nothing less. Upon its first circulation in 1987, MKule – which was first known as UP Manila Collegian – served as a response to the dawning new era in Philippine democracy, and a justification of the redemption of the fundamental freedoms of expression, of speech, and of the press, after these rights were curtailed and repressed during the Marcos dictatorship. Back then, MKule was relatively a newcomer in the campus publication arena compared to its counterparts which are more established and notable in the field. Back then, it had yet to establish its reputation and prove its significance to the UP Manila community and the people at large. Back then, MKule still had to build the road ahead of them. Nonetheless, due to the well-ingrained UP culture of activism, coupled with the principles of advocacy journalism, MKule did not go astray in serving its purpose, and in advancing its ideals and objectives. A few years thereafter, members of the publication deemed it proper to create a motto which shall embody and encapsulate the core principle of MKule – that is, to convey and manifest the power of truth through campus journalism. Hence, the birth of “Magna est veritas et praevalebit.” Since then, the motto has been a constant reminder that a publication should be a tool to disseminate news and information based on truth. The motto also exemplifies the need for the publication’s members to serve as catalysts for critical analysis in search for truth on pressing social issues. As the years passed, MKule found different avenues through which it can effectively channel the ideals of truth envisioned by its motto. Primarily, one of these channels will immediately include the different sections of the publication. From the informative and well-researched news stories, to the sharp and critical feature articles, to the clever and thought-provoking culture write-ups, and the artistic and expressive graphics – these sections built the foundation of MKule as an advocate of truth. Not all truths, however, are required to be presented through some overly serious matters. In fact, there is another aspect of truth which can be gleaned
VOLUME 31 • ISSUE 3 O C T. 2 6 , 2 0 1 7
from the different segments introduced by MKule – that is, one which resonates the truth behind an Iskolar ng Bayan’s life as manifested by the present trend in the UP Manila culture. Some of these segments include Itanong Kay Isko’t Iska – which hears the quick opinions and answers of fellow Iskolars ng Bayan to questions pertaining to current events and popular culture; the opinion page in which ruminations about life, love, academics, and whatnot can be talked about; and the “birth” of several characters such as Inah del Mundo, Quirina Landipa, Pussy Willow, and the well-known Lola Patola, who all became the pioneer personalities in addressing campus-related grievances. Think of it this way: before UPM Secret Files, there were these ladies. MKule also found other ways in which advancing the “truth” can both be engaging and entertaining at the same time, such as through lampoon issues – in which the publication makes a satire version of itself, all the while showcasing a different angle of the story but in a diverted manner. MKule also occasionally publishes a literary folio known as “Waywaya,” which allows students, faculty, and others to submit their poems, short stories, drawings, and photographs which exhibit a version of these artists’ truth. But beyond what is published, The Manila Collegian takes its principles into practice. As a form of alternative media, a student publication such as MKule did not, and does not, limit itself within the corners of its paper’s pages. Its members go out of their comfort zones, and become one with the masses – the ones whose truth matters the most, from whom some of the societal truths become apparent, and to whom the publication has the responsibility to deliver and represent the truth. It is through immersing with the masses that MKule fully realizes the importance of its motto. It is through joining in the struggle of the people by which the publication validate the value of truth, and how truth consequently empowers those who are under constant oppression to fight for their rights, for them to achieve true freedom. MKule has always been present and at the forefront of every collective action within and without UP Manila, all the while acknowledging the fact that UP is a state university, and that it is considered as a microcosm of the Philippine society. In turn, these participations further strengthened the foundation of truth in the publication, and bolstered the necessity of incorporating not just the students’ viewpoint in every published issue, but more importantly, that of the masses. Hence, this fact remains standing, no matter what time or place: that the truth will not prevail no matter how mighty it is, if there is no active participation in collective actions. The information and influence brought about by student publications such as The Manila Collegian can admittedly contribute in shaping the minds not just of the Iskolars ng Bayan, but also of the people. In the advent of social media and interconnected technology, where many tend to take the premises presented to them on its face regardless if verified or not, it becomes imperative for alternative media to serve as a new repository of information based on critical analysis. As MKule celebrates its 30th year since its inception, there can be no other motto that is more fitting than what it has today, especially at a time when people are being exposed to different versions of “truth.” Now, and for the years to come, the challenge which remains on the members of the publication are to uphold the truth, and to thwart anything which may threaten to defeat the same. After all, the truth is mighty and shall prevail – not just today, but always.
T
HROUGHOUT THE YEARS, college publications have played an indispensable role in the country and within the university -in documenting social and political events and also in shaping the minds of its readers. For its progressive views and critiques of the school administration, national policies, and various social issues, campus publications often earn the ire of both school and government officials.
REKULEK: Three Decades of Serving the Students and the People SINAGTALA MARCELO* ILLUSTRATION BY JUSTINE VINCE AMANCA DE DIOS
While campus press repression was at its worst during the Martial Law period, it cannot be denied that it no longer exists today. Whereas campus journalists had to go underground and evade intense surveillance during the Martial Law period, they now face criminal liability for articles published criticizing a personality. Whereas campus publications had to be closed down during Martial Law, school administrators nowadays prefer to constructively do so by cutting down or withholding their budget.
explain the angle of their articles. For instance, former Chancellor Manuel Agulto called for a meeting with staff members after an article about the death of Kristel Tejada was released online and on print. He explained that it was against the Campus Journalism Act (RA 7079) to release an article commemorating suicide. For other reasons cited, such as the inaccuracy in the wording of the news article, he threatened to withhold the budget of the publication for that academic year until an erratum rectifying its error was released.
For 30 years and counting, The Manila Collegian has experienced various forms of campus press repression. Through all those challenges, it remains steadfast in its duty to serve the students and the people -- for the truth is mighty and it shall prevail.
When a news article was released exposing a corruption anomaly in the administration, the writer was called by one of the officials of UP Manila to verify the sources and, as a compromise, to write a follow-up article regarding the same issue for clarification.
Budget deficit, office relocation Financial and operational constraints serve as impediments in the normal functioning of any publication. There were times when The Manila Collegian would have to negotiate with the printing press to allow them to pay after their budget is released. This would entail about three months of delay in payment and journalists having to spend their own pocket money on transportation to cover events. For certain period, The Manila Collegian was also forced to vacate its office in the 4th floor of the Old NEDA Building to give way to renovation. Without any consultation and a proper office to transfer, the staff members were able to reach a compromise with the administration to allow them to use the Learning and Information Center (LIC) room as a temporary office and two other rooms for storage.
Threats from the UP Manila administration The Manila Collegian has been a staunch critic of the administration's anti-student policies, especially the Socialized Tuition System (STS), formerly the Socialized Tuition and Financial Assistance Program (STFAP). Several times, writers of The Manila Collegian would be summoned by the UP Manila administration to
Red tagging and surveillance For its progressive stance, The Manila Collegian, similar with other publications in the country, has been tagged as a sympathizer of the New People's Army (NPA) and a leftist publication. This has posed threats to the safety of its staff members, putting them on the watch list of state agents.
the military, to spy on progressive organizations and individuals, including staff members of the Manila Collegian. We earned the ire of the ROTC officials. During that time, ROTC was still mandatory for all male students. There was one training day in Fort Bonifacio that they identified all MKule staff members, then called us and the student paper 'anay ng UP Manila.'"
Challenge to institutional independence As
an institution of the university, The Manila Collegian is treated as an equal of the University Student Council (USC). It does not have to undergo accreditation with the Office of S t u d e n t A f f a i r s (OSA), being a recognized publication by the university's rules. Through this, the publication was able to give unencumbered opinion on any political party, organization, candidate, incumbent, and officials of the university and national and governments.
For instance, staff members of The Manila Collegian were subject to surveillance by the Student Intelligence Network (SIN) during the term of LJ Castillo (AY 2001-2002), at the height of the Abolish ROTC movement.
In an attempt to reduce this independence of the publication, a member of a political party attempted to create a League of College Publications so that the USC can convene college publications, including The Manila Collegian, and utilize it to publicize events and projects. This way, The Manila Collegian would have been under the control, or even influence, of the USC. Moreover, it was redundant because UP Solidaridad, an organization of college publications, was already in existence.
According to Prof. Carl Marc Ramota, former convenor of the Abolish ROTC movement, "MKule published articles exposing the corruption in UPM ROTC and the existence of the Student Intelligence Network (SIN). SIN was formed by ROTC officials, allegedly also with links with
During its campaign for a bigger budget, a member of the USC also suggested that instead of increasing fees, the publication could just accept paid advertisements and subscriptions. In that manner, The Manila Collegian's content would have to be controlled to
FEATURES 07 satisfy its customers. This goes against the concept of The Manila Collegian as a form of alternative media, as a servant of the students and the public, and as an independent institution of the university.
Legal sanction Being a fierce critic, The Manila Collegian has also faced the fear of being sued in court for libel. Once, it published a lampoon article about candidates for the USC election. As a lampoon article, it was naturally made for sarcasm. Nonetheless, the writers only found out from the legal office that someone already planned to file a complaint in court. Although the case was not pursued, it served as a chilling effect on the publication's release of lampoon articles. In its 30 years of existence, there are some years when The Manila Collegian has experienced relatively greater freedom as a campus press compared to its counterparts in other universities. Recently, The Independent Sentinel of the Lyceum University of the Philippines (LPU) and The Catalyst of the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) have been taken over by their respective administrations. Their budgets have been withheld and the school administrators plan to install their own set of members of the editorial board. Campus journalists of three publications in Bicol -- The Spark of the Camarines Sur Polytechnic College (CSPC), The Pillars of Ateneo De Naga University (AdNU), and The Seafarers’ Gazette of Mariners Polytechnic College Foundation (MPCF) -- have been subjected to harassment and intimidation through surveillance of members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). As an active member of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines (CEGP) and UP Solidaridad, The Manila Collegian supports and stands with all college publications in their campaign for campus press freedom. Now, with the imminent possibility of history repeating itself, campus publications play a more crucial role. When dissenting voices are subdued, when unpopular opinions are looked down upon, and when mass media is used to spread unreliable information, the role of the campus press is to fearlessly go against the tide.
08 FEATURES
VOLUME 31 • ISSUE 3 O C T. 2 6 , 2 0 1 7
TANAW Pagsilip sa nakaraan at hinaharap ng Mkule Tatlumpung taon ng pagsulat, pagguhit, at pakikibaka.
Aries Raphael Reyes Pascua 31st Editor-In-Chief, 2017-2018
Taong 1987, nabuo ang pamilyang magbibigay-ambag sa patuloy na paghubog ng matatalino, matatalas, mapanuri, at matatapang na Iskolar ng Bayan. Isang pamilyang itutulak ang bawat isang miyembro nito sa pinakamahusay niyang abilidad sapagkat tiyak ito na ang bawat isa’y may natatanging kalakasan. Isang pamilyang buong puso ka pa ring tatanggapin kahit na ilang beses ka nang nagkamali at sumuko. Isang pamilyang magiging kanlungan ng lahat ng iyong karanasan at karunungan upang higit pang mapagsilbihan ang sambayanan. Noong nalaman kong nakapasa ako ng UP Manila, agad kong inalam ang pamahayagang pangkampus nito sapagkat alam kong ito ang institusyong tutulong sa akin upang
mailabas ang pinakamahusay na besiyon ng aking sarili at maging mas makabuluhan sa lipunan. Isa ring dahilan kung bakit ninais kong maging bahagi ng publikasyon ay upang magkaroon ng masasandigang pamilya sa pamantasan. Sa kabutihang palad, hindi ako nagkamali na umanib sa Mkule sapagkat hindi lamang nito tinugonan ang aking mga inaasahan, bagkus, higit pa sa aking ekspektasyon ang ibinigay nito sa akin – tinuro sa akin ng Mkule kung gaano kahalagahang mahalin ang lipunan at paano ito mapaglilingkuran nang buong husay. Ngayong ako’y punong patnugot na ng The Manila Collegian, titiyakin ko na gagawin ko ang lahat ng aking makakaya upang lalo pang mapahusay ang paglilingkod ng Mkule sa mga estudyante’t sambayanan. Ibubuhos ko ang aking puso’t isipan sa publikasyon upang manatiling
buo ito at hindi watak-watak na magiging kasama sa pakikibaka ng bawat sektor sa lipunan. Kasama ng bawat miyembro ng pamilyang nabuo ng tatlong dekada, mananatiling matapat ang Mkule sa mandato nitong maging mata at boses ng masang api kasabay ng pagsama nito sa paglaban patungo sa higit pang tagumpay. Tulad ng perlas, sa pag-inog ng mundo at pagdaloy ng panahon, yumayabong, tumitibay, humuhusay, at nagiging katangi-tangi rin ang MKule sa ilalim ng iba’t ibang puwersa na nagtutunggali upang mabuo ang mas matatag at mapanghahas na publikasyon. Nasasabik na ako sa mga susunod nating sandaling magkasama, Mkule! Kapit-bisig tayong makibaka patungo sa lehitimong kaunlaran at kalayaan. Maraming salamat sa lahat! Padayon!
THE REAL STRUGGLE OF MKULE From age zero to forever (if there is such a thing) When we published the very first issue of The Manila Collegian, we did not look far ahead into the future. Ours was a neverending present. Our struggle was to print an issue every two weeks—come hell or high water (and sometimes, that was literal). As the ‘new kid on the block’, it was important to be reliable, consistent, to be there, so that our readers would get used to having their own campus paper. As the then newest autonomous unit within the UP system, UP Manila was carving out its own unique identity as the health sciences center. We were not writing for a general audience. Our readers were decidedly and purposefully specialized—they were on their way to becoming doctors, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, physical/occupational/ speech therapists, public health specialists, among others. Even in the College of Arts and Sciences, where all these future health professionals took their general education courses, the population of AS majors were not
only in the popular Political Science and Biology tracks, but also in what at the time were ‘just-heard-of’ or ‘newly named’ specialties like Organizational Communication, Development Studies, and Behavioral Sciences. Our niche of very demanding readers required us to have something for everyone in every issue. We had to give our fellow students a voice, if the paper were to truly represent the realities in UP Manila and the nation. For that one semester and one summer that comprised the first term, we did go to press every two weeks, and even managed a literary folio and lampoon issue. After the next editorial exams, we ensured a seamless transition to the next editor-in-chief, who then had a free hand in recruiting his own staff. Did our readers, who supported Manila Collegian through their student fees, find their voice in the paper? Were our articles authentic, reflecting who they
were, their struggles and aspirations? Did they even bother to read us or bring the paper home? Thirty years later, we ask the same questions. In the age of social media and fake news, campus papers like Manila Collegian, as well as the traditional press, compete with countless content providers for reader attention, acceptance and support. Each new set of editors and staff members must decide if they will continue to publish, in whatever form that best reaches their readers, or just cease, stop, halt, take a rest from it all--permanently. There are, after all, other ways to serve, some of them requiring the same resourcefulness, creativity and audacity that those in the campus press possess. The struggle for relevance continues. It is real. And for as long as each chief editor chooses to forge ahead, there is no end in sight.
Carla Paras-Sison
1st Editor-In-Chief, 1987-1988
GRAPHICS 09 TO NEW HEIGHTS
| P.10
entangle ourselves to what has kept us going in the first place. As Romanian philosopher Emil Cioran put it, “Man starts over again everyday, in spite of all he knows, against all he knows.” P E R L A S | FROM P.10 at tunggalian sa loob ng sistemang umiiral. Marahil, sila ‘yong mga nahanap ang sarili sa walang pag-iimbot na paglilingkod sa masang natutunan ding mahalin at arugain, na kasa-kasama sa lahat ng piket, lahat ng dispersal, lahat ng kampuhan, at lahat ng kapihan at kwentuhan. Marahil, nabatid nila ang isa sa pinakamakabuluhang rason at esensya ng pagiging isang manunulat. Nalasap na siguro nila ang mandato na isulat ang katotohanan at kasaysayan ng lipunang lubog sa kongkretong kalagayan nang walang pag-iimbot, buhay man ay ialay. Sa totoo lang, makatarungan at marangal ang propesyon ng isang manunulat. Dumating man sa punto kung saan siya ay mahaharap sa lahat ng tunggalian at matitinding kontradiksyon, marapat lang niya sigurong tandaan ito: ang kanlungan ng isang manunulat ay ang masang handa siyang kalingain. Kaya para sa iyo, sa iyong nag-iisip kung dapat bang subukan ang pagsusulat para sa masa, sa iyong nagkakaroon ng agam-agam kung dapat bang magpatuloy sa pagsusulat, sa iyong napanghihinaan ng loob, isa lang naman ang maipapayo ko sa inyo: ‘Wag kang matakot tumalon sa kawalan, dahil sa pagtalon dito ay mahahanap mo ang laksa-laksang mamamayang handa kang samahan sa bawat kalakasan at kahinaan mo, sa bawat pagkatalo, sa bawat tagumpay—walang mintis, ubos-kaya, buong-buo, hanggang sa ganap at absolutong tagumpay. Maligayang anibersaryo sa pahayagang pang-kampus na nananatiling nakasandig sa masa at estudyante. Nawa’y patuloy niyong gamitin ang tinta upang makapaglingkod sa sambayanan. Patuloy lamang ang diwang mapanlaban! Sumulong, sumulat, manindigan, at magmulat! Maligayang anibersaryo, The Manila Collegian! JUSTINE VINCE AMANCA DE DIOS AND GENEVIEVE IGNACIO SEÑO
Magna Est Veritas Et Prevaelebit.
MKULE THROUGH THE YEARS...
2009-2010
2010-2011
2011-2012
2012-2013
SANGANDAAN L AYA V E R G A R A
PERLAS Sa lipunang palagiang nasa krisis, ginhawa nang maituturing ang mga indibidwal na nagpasyang tumangan ng panulat at armasan ang isip ng teoryang mapagpalaya at nag-aaklas laban sa kasalukuyang kaayusan. Ilang kaibigan ko na rin ang nakapagbanggit, isang thankless na trabaho ang pagiging journo. Kadalasan, nakasalalay ang mga ito sa maibababang pondo ng inaasahang financer na mas malimit ay kaiba sa pinaniniwalaan o ideyolohiya ng isang manunulat. Kung kaya’t hindi na nakapagtataka na ang kasaysayan, daan-taon mang pinanday ng mamamayang lumalaban, ay nasasadlak sa malalabnaw na beat o lathalain. Sa ganitong kaayusan ng mga bagay-bagay, kontra-agos ang mga nagpasyang bumalikwas at pumiling sumandig sa piling ng masa upang tunay na ilapat sa titik at ipinta sa isip ng mga mambabasa ang lehitimong kuwento ng paglaban ng mamamayan. Sa ganitong propesyon, kung saan silang nasa kapangyarihan ang may monopolyo sa kung ano ang tama sa mali, mahirap banggain ang alon at itayo ang pundasyon ng isang pahayagang naninindigang sumusulat para sa masa. Madalas, hindi lamang ang pagbangga sa mga makapangyarihan ang binabaka nila, kundi pati na rin ang kulturang naikintal na sa mga mambabasang minanhid at kinondisyong maniwala sa status quo. Bonus na rin siguro ‘yung palagiang pagbabanta ng estado sa porma ng teargas, riot gear, arrest warrant, o kung minsan ay bala sa sentido. Kung kaya’t sa ganitong konteksto, ‘di ba mas madali na lang magpatangay sa agos ng nakasanayang kultura? Pero bakit nga ba meron at meron pa ring nagpapasyang bumalikwas? Marahil, sila ay ‘yong mga taong nakahanap ng thrill sa pagiging deviant. Pero masyado naman atang stereotypical ‘yun. Marahil, sila ay ‘yong mga tulad ko ring namulat at namangha sa tagumpay at pakikibaka ng masang api. Ang mga nagpasyang tahakin ang landas na ‘di-pangkaraniwan, na humarap at pinanday ng kontradiksyon CONTINUED ON P.9
OPINION PASSIVE TENSE
VOLUME 31 • ISSUE 3 O C T. 2 6 , 2 0 1 7
SIKHAY*
EUNICE BIÑAS HECHANOVA
“To write is already to choose” - College Editors Guild of the Philippines Being part of a student publication is both an honor and a responsibility. One is bound to the ethics of journalism, to the mandate of verifying the truth and to deliver to the public what they deserve to know. With this duty, student journalists are also reminded to maintain integrity, which manifests in how they present their articles through a certain quality and style of writing, backed up by significant and correct information. Another side of being a campus journalist is the underlying accountability to be critical of issues within the institution, and to act as the voice of the students with regard to their impact and relevance on the student body and the masses. Operating in any institution or organization while managing academics takes effort, not even including the other facets one has to be in life. Consequently, being an efficient unit of your affiliation for that matter, is the ultimatum of your performance and experience. Amid the bustle of activities, hardships and research in the life
of a student, learning is inevitable. Receptiveness to the new things will later determine how you will evolve as a person. What better way to go through college than to adapt and improve?
Hence, dedication in serving the people and in joining their struggle for systemic change defines any endeavor. All roads will lead an aspirant for change into this direction.
In the duration of all the overwhelming odds, it is inescapable to be faced with the potential of quitting. Despite this, the only thing that restores vigor to return to work will be this question: For whom will all these sacrifices be for?
That is why it is also the journalist's mandate to awaken minds regarding social realities and to inform them about current events and how these are linked to through political, socio-economic, psychological and other lenses.
This will always serve as a wake-up call, a reminder and a reason for all people operating in various fields working towards the same goal. No matter how
It is vital therefore that advocacy journalism should aim to bring the public closer to the plight of the masses, and explain that these issues and problems are not limited to one sector. What affects jeepney drivers affects commuters, who are students, teachers, and workers. What plagues the farmers extends to low-income families. Whatever strikes one part of our population, essentially the marginalized, would have an effect on us as well. Change may come gradually and from one group to another, but it should always mean holistic development.
dedication in serving the people and in joining their struggle for systemic change defines any endeavor. hard the path becomes, the struggles each is facing will always be worth it. The people for whom we are striving to inform, to liberate and to empower are the very core of our inspiration for change, development and justice. Do not let them fight, alone.
W.Z. MACHT
TO NEW HEIGHTS
ROMEO EARNEST GERIAL FUNTILA III
Society’s paradigms and norms dictate that an individual be processed through its various systems and matters of conformity in order to have an established existence. Lest one be a mere vermin, alluding to Kafka’s The Metamorphosis, an individual is condemned to serve a lifetime of work through an occupation one has “been called to” as a mere cogwheel in the contrivance of horror which is driven by society’s unfathomable and unrestrained wants. The individual is exclusively and only given importance to based on his/her qualifications and abilities to serve with utmost efficiency, adaptability, and capability society’s absolute potentate, the unceasing lusus naturae of ravenousness, human desire. The entirely alternative elucidation to society’s destructively indifferent meritocratic system is an existence of even more suffering and torment, destitution. Such are the extant conditions and such will the conditions
This is why bringing issues to the people should be a burden shouldered by the journalists, who should serve to the best interests of the masses. *zeal
of the future be, the cycle is vicious, unrelenting, and immensely perpetual. One cannot help but to indulge pondering on such inconsequential clairvoyant meanderings as a freshman, embarking on one’s uneventfully chosen course which shall dictate how one shall earn bread for the rest of one’s lifetime, newly thrown into the daunting university life. To state that this be an uncommon thought for university freshmen is to be on the side of folly, as one grows into the university one deciphers one’s own selfactualizations. As one adjusts gradually to the increasingly expanding demands of the university life, high-school requirements are seemingly made to be a gag once compared to college tasks; one is conscripted to seek for purpose in the ends of such relentless and inexorable work, one is bound to bargain for method in such madness. Transitioning and conforming to college standards is a difficult and disheartening
yet necessary undertaking; one’s academic expectations and standards for one’s self are tested through the process of pulverizing and grinding of the uncompromising college curriculum. One shall not escape the process unscathed without moments of utter demoralization. Being a freshman aspiring to major in Biology myself, such obstacles are not foreign; it is difficult to remain on track when it comes to one’s own academics and other college interests despite such thoughts. It is necessary to enshrine that when it comes to freshmen, university problems are magnified tenfold, and unfamiliar predicaments are almost always precarious. In spite of the behemoth of difficulties we currently face, we must remain vigilant. We, the freshmen, are on the edge of a precipice; how we establish our footing now determines the rest of our career. It is of infinite degree of importance that we must CONTINUED ON P.9
I
NSTITUSYONG NAKATATAYO sa sariling mga paa, pinatatakbo ng mga estudyante, at malaya mula sa mga komersiyal na interes.
VOLUME 31 • ISSUE 3 O C T. 2 6 , 2 0 1 7
E D I T O R -I N - C H I E F Aries Raphael Reyes Pascua A SSOCI AT E EDI TOR FOR I N T ER NA L S Sofia Monique Kingking Sibulo A SSOCI AT E EDI TOR FOR E X T ER NA L S Justin Danielle Tumenez Francia M A N AG I N G E D I T O R Arthur Gerald Bantilan Quirante A S S I S S T A N T M A N AG I N G E D I T O R Patricia Anne Lactao Guerrero N E WS EDI TOR Eunice Biñas Hechanova N E WS COR R E SPON DE N T S Shaila Elijah Perez Fortajada Adolf Enrique Santos Gonzales Ryana Ysabel Neri Kesner Anton Gabriel Abueva Leron Leah Rose Figueroa Paras F E AT U R E S EDI TOR Chloe Pauline Reyes Gelera F E AT U R E S COR R E SPON DE N T S Czyrah Isabella Manalo Cordoba Ronald Satore Simyunn Jr. Jennah Yelle Manato Mallari Mika Andrea Ocampo Ramirez John Michael Tribiana Torres
C U LT U R E C O R R E S P O N D E N T S Jonerie Ann Mamauag Pajalla Mari Loreal Marquez Valdez GR A PHICS EDI TOR Michael Lorenz Dumalaog Raymundo R E SIDE N T ILLUST R ATOR S Justine Vince Amanca De Dios Marie Angelu De Luna Pagobo Genevieve Ignacio Seño Abigail Beatrice Ocampo Malabrigo
OF F ICE 4th Floor Student Center Building, University of the Philippines Manila, Padre Faura St. corner Ma. Orosa St., Ermita, Manila 1000 EMAIL themanilacollegian@gmail.com W EBSI T ES issuu.com/manilacollegian www.facebook.com/themanilacollegian www.twitter.com/mkule MEMBER
College Editors Guild of the Philippines
Solidaridad - UP Systemwide Alliance of Student Publications and Writers’ Organizations
THE COVER LAYOUT Genevieve Ignacio Seño Kyla Dominique Lacambacal Pasicolan
ILLUSTRATION Michael Lorenz Dumalaog Raymundo
Maraming nadudulot na benepisyo ang pahayagang pangkampus, lalo na sa sarili, paaralan, at komunidad. Una na rito ay ang paglinang ng pamahagayang pangkampus sa lakas ng mga mag-aaral sa pagmamasid at kritikal na pag-iisip. Tumatalas ang isipan ng mga mamahayag dahil sa pagdedetalye nito ng balita, kasabay ng pag-uugnay ng bawat datos upang makabuo ng mas komprehensibong pahayag na ililimbag sa diyaryo.
Ikatlo ay nagsisilbing naghuhumiyaw na boses at mapanghahas na mata ng mga mag-aaral at sambayanan ang pamahayagang pangkampus, dahil dito naisisiwalat ang kanilang mga hinaing, panawagan, at pahayag, kaalinsabay ng pagkamulat nila sa katotohanan. Nagtatalakay ang pamahayagang pangkampus ng mga isyu mula sa loob ng pamantasan, hanggang sa buong bansa, kaya’t malaki ang nagiging ambag nito sa pagpukaw ng damdamin ng mga tao upang ma-organisa at mamobilisa nang makapagtulak ng pagbabago sa lipunan.
R E S I D E N T P H O T OJ O U R N A L I S T Kyla Dominique Lacambacal Pasicolan
JO
Itinatatag ang pamahayagang pangkampus nang may mandatong samahan ang mga estudyante sa mga isyung bumabalot sa kanilang eskuwelahan at komunidad. Nagiging lugar din ang pamahagayang pangkampus sa mga saloobin ng mga estudyante. Dito, malaya nilang naibubulalas ang kanilang mga kritikal na pagsusuri sa mga programa, polisiya, at proyekto na umaatake sa kanilang mga karapatan, at nagiging sandata nila ito upang bumuo at magbigay ng alternatibong solusyon ukol sa mga suliranin na kanilang kinakaharap.
Ikalawa ay nagsisilbing lugar ang pamahayagang pangkampus upang mamulat ang mga mag-aaral sa tunay na kalagayan ng lipunang kanilang kinabibilangan. Makakamtan ito kung responsable ang mga mamamahayag na tugonan ang kanilang mga tungkulin bilang peryodista ng bayan sa pamamagitan ng paglubog at pakikipamuhay sa kondisyon ng masang api.
C U LT U R E E D I T O R Josef Bernard Soriano De Mesa
EDITORIAL 11
Sa kabilang banda, hindi maitatanggi na bulnerable ang mga mamamahayagestudyante sa mga pandarahas at panggigipit, lalo na sa pakikibaka ng publikasyon sa paghahanap ng katotohanan. Dahil dito, nabuo at naipasa bilang batas ang Republic Act 7079 o mas kilala sa tawag na Campus Journalism Act of 1991. Ito ang inaasahang magbibigay proteksiyon sa mga mamamahayagestudyante at mangangalaga sa integridad ng isang publikasyon; ngunit sa kabila ng pagkakaroon ng batas na tulad nito, patuloy ang paglabag sa karapatang pantao ng mga mamamahayag-estudyante. Walang pangil ang RA 7079 upang
SH
UA
DY E
LE
VA ZO
REPRESYON lehitimong maipagtanggol ang mga peryodista ng mga pamantasan, bagkus, nagiging daan pa ito upang lalong magipit ang mga pamahayagang pangkampus. Patuloy ang pananakot sa mga manunulat ng pamahayagang pangkampus, patuloy na nanghihimasok ang administrasyon sa mga lalamanin at porma ng mga diyaryo na ilalabas ng pamahayagan, patuloy ang pagharang sa pondo na kailangan ng pamahayagang pangkampus upang makatakbo at patuloy na makapagsilbi. Makikita ito sa kasalukuyang kalagayan ng LPU Independent Sentinel ng Lyceum of the Philippines University at The Catalyst ng Polytechnic University of the Philippines. Parehas na ginigipit ng administrasyon ng kaniya-kaniya nitong pamantasan ang dalawang publikasyon dahil sa huwad na mga rason.
Kailangan
adminitrasyon ang pangangalaga sa mga mamamahayag-estudyante at sa institusyong kinabibilangan ng mga ito. Kailangan ang sama-sama nating pagkilos upang tunay na maprotektahan ang publikasyon na ang tanging mandato lamang ay pagsilbihan ang mga estudyante at ang sambayanan. Sapagkat sa oras na mawala ang pamahayagang pangkampus, mapipilay ang isang unibersidad. Mawawala ang matalas na pagsusuri sa mga ginagawa ng pamahalaan na magdudulot ng monopolyo ng kapangyarihan sa administrasyon upang magbaba ng desisyon sa iba’t ibang aspekto nito. Kapag nagkataon, maaaring mahirapan ang mga mag-aaral na ipahayag ang kani-kanilang mga saloobin na nais nilang mabigyan ng solusyon, at maaari
ang sama-sama nating pagkilos upang tunay
na maprotektahan ang publikasyon ana ang tanging mandato lamang ay pagsilbihan ang mga estudyante at ang sambayanan. Sapagkat sa oras na mawala ang pamahayagang pangkampus, mapipilay ang isang unibersidad. Sa pagpapatuloy, nakararanas din ang mga pamahayagang pangkampus ng pananambang mula sa mga militar at iba pang armadong grupo. Kadalasan ay pinagsususpetsahan ng pamahalaan ang mga mamamahayag-estudyante na terorista o di kaya’y mga kontra sa kanilang puwersa. Kaugnay nito, may naitala nang mga kaso ng pagpatay sa mga peryodista; halimbawa na rito si Benjaline Hernandez ng Ateneo de Davao University Atenews na pinaslang ng Citizens Armed Force Geographical Unit (CAFGU) sa Northern Cotabato habang nasa gawaing-larang noong 2003. Marami pang kaso ng paglabag ng karapatan sa malayang pamamahayag ng pamahayagang pangkampus na hindi nadodokumento dahil sa iba’t ibang rason, ngunit ang bilang ng kaso nito ay tumataas sa nakababahalang antas. Patunay lamang ito na hindi pinapahalagahan ng kasalukuyang
ding hindi na maging matibay ang relasyon ng mga mag-aaral sa lipunang kanilang ginagalawan, o ang mas malala pa’y maging mangmang sila rito. Tunay na mahalaga at malaki ang papel ng pamahayang pangkampus sa paaralan at komunidad, kaya’t importante na maprotektahan ito upang patuloy pa ring makapagsilbi sa sinasandigan nitong masa. Dapat magkaroon ng pangil ang mangangalaga sa institusyong ito, sapagkat pangil din ang gamit ng publikasyon sa pagsusuri sa mga isyung panlipunan. Pangalagaan ang kaligtasan ng mga estudyante-mamamahayag! Palayain ang pamahayagang pangkampus mula sa mapaniil na sistemang ito upang patuloy na mapaglingkuran ang mga estudyante at ang sambayanan.