OPINION

nudoveritas

editorialboard 2021-2022

Editor-in-Chief MELIZA ROCAT Associate Editor NICOLE BONSILAO Managing Editor KYLA TIFFANY JAVIER Circulating Manager IVY JEAN SILAGAN Social Media Manager CHLOE VILLACERAN News Editor KYLA TIFFANY JAVIER* Opinion Editor MELIZA ROCAT Feature Editor NICOLE BONSILAO Science Editor DESIREE KLER POJAS Sports Editor IVY JEAN SILAGAN Graphic Design and Layout Editor JIREH MAE CASIÑO CHLOE VILLACERAN Photography Editor GRACIE TAGANILE Staff Writers LHIAN JOIE BRANZUELA KYLE ALLYSON DANLAG SHAYNE LAURENTE SHANNA SILLOTE JAN CODY MARAGUINOT MARTHA MACALTAO ALEXA ASTIBE AMARA VALLE JILLIANA YSABEL MICLAT VINZ VERBO ALILING Illustrators/Page Designers MARK LAURENZ DELA CRUZ JIREH MAE CASIÑO CHLOE VILLACERAN CKALIL CAMAMA LAWRENCE NOVO MARCO ANTONIO LABAJAN EINA GAYLE FLORES KRISTINE KAROLE FLORES ALTHEA LEI DELOS REYES NINA LEZADA LYKA BARRIENTOS School Paper Adviser JASMINE JOY TIEMPO JEANY MAE MACALAM School Journalism Coordinator JASMINE JOY TIEMPO Consultant JAMES PUNSALAN CHARLYN BAYLON

*Interim

DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed by the Nudo Veritas Editorial Board do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of those in the administration of Gusa Regional Science High School-X. Any content provided by our writers are of their opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything.

editorial

At the crux of today’s sociopolitical climate, there is no room for the youth to be demoralized—the betterment of the motherland which our forefathers fought for lies in them to take a stand.

art by JIREH MAE CASIÑO

It goes without saying that there is an increase in youth participation in the current landscape. The Commission on Elections reported that 56% of the voter demographic in 2022 are composed of young people, playing a big role in the recently concluded elections; prior to that, initiatives such as the community pantries which spread in different parts of the country were also borne of their involvement; and with today’s technology, their engagement is much more perceived on social media.

Despite that, their efforts remain downplayed. Incidents such as last year’s peaceful demonstrations against the government’s dismal disaster response had former presidential spokesperson Harry Roque calling students from Ateneo de Manila University ‘loko-loko’ and ex-President Duterte threatening to withhold university funding.

“[Tapos] nag-aaral kayo ang gusto ninyong binibira ang gobyerno. Masyado namang nakasuwerte kayo. Huwag talaga kayong matakot — manakot rather kasi I will oblige you,” Duterte stated.

This year, students also faced a similar warning after the academic walkouts held in opposition of the Marcoses returning to the Malacanang, as well as challenging the validity of the 2022 national elections. While some institutions were in support, others—like Benguet State University—outright censured their students from participating in these initiatives and advised students to “focus on complying with requirements” instead.

Such disparaging actions instill a sense of belittlement towards students and the youth in general; further propagating the belief that their opinions, especially on politics, matter little. This is made evident by how they are asked “Makabotar na diay ka?” or even told “Bata pa ka, dili ka makasabot,” apart from being threatened and called names when vocally criticizing the shortcomings of the state.

Perhaps a reminder of the Department of Education’s vision is needed; We dream of Filipinos who passionately love their country, and whose competencies and values enable them to[…]contribute meaningfully to building the nation. This contribution means not only getting high grades, but also to critically engage and participate in calling out problems in the community and providing solutions. “I highly disagree with the notion that the youth still does not know anything and their opinions are half-baked ideas or too idealistic for this country,” said Jingjing*, a faculty of Gusa Regional Science High School-X (GRSHS-X). The school has been known to keep a lid on its students from voicing their political opinions, despite breeding student leaders, campus journalists, and the like. “We've generated socially active and sensitive youth over the last few years and they have real concerns and real problems they wish to be resolved.”

H, a student leader proactive in community programs, also revealed that they knew others like them who were censured for their beliefs. “I personally believe that we are taught to be critical and that determining what is right and wrong is a basic human act. We should be students who value moral uprightness, which includes amplifying the truth and keeping it disclosed and bare.”

Injustice does not discriminate—and likewise, there is no age in fighting against it, not when the youth will inevitably grow to bear the results of the present government’s lapses. With the dictator’s son as the head of state, there is no better time to take a stand than now. The youth remain a dynamic force that have proven themselves throughout history as catalysts for social and political change, not only in the Philippines but worldwide.

With truthful information in one hand and hope in the other, the youth are at the forefront for the future at stake.

Injustice does not discriminate— and there is no age in fighting against it.

Deeper Cronyections

prioritylist

by KYLA TIFFANY JAVIER

For years, greed and connection have been the supporting pillars of Philippine politics. However, as the campaign period progressed up until the 9th of May, the voice of the common people dare to rise up against these so-called pillars; for a worker’s mighty clean hands raised in the air may very well amplify every Filipino’s voice.

Aside from skills and expertise, a politician’s endorsement has always been considered a significant requirement for a government position. However, this recent National Election taught us a valuable lesson of people power. The Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU), Philippine Bar Association (PBA) and Sentro ng mga Nagkakaisa at Progresibong Manggagawa (Sentro) are some of the prominent labor groups in the country who endorsed the Robredo-Pangilinan tandem. One cannot say their support is mere patronage, for it is far more symbolic and historic than one might expect. Perhaps it is the fear of authoritarianism, or the protection of democracy; but this could mean something different for the other parties, especially since this year’s elections did not go too smoothly. To be frank, the c itizens’ expectations for the future is set to ascend, particularly in the labor sector. Over the course of the pandemic, the sector suffered a great blow, with the country having 3.7M unemployed and the inflation rate going up to 4.9%. This pushes the need for a leader with their immense support. With Robredo’s loss, the causes they fought for could all turn nonsensical as another elitist figure takes the seat. A politician’s support is significantly different from the masses’, for it is always their voices that should be rightfully followed. With more now actively participating in politics, there should be a lot in store for the next administration. From the volunteer-driven campaigns to the new sight of endorsement from the public, there is evident change in the minds of Filipino voters. The expectations of some may change with their loss, but at the end of the day, being a Filipino should matter the most. In democracy, the force of the masses are not a sight to overlook, “ The last say is for the last say is still ours. Connections may pave the way to the top, but the majority would drive you to victory; therefore, still ours. our voices would be a waste if we dedicate it to the wrong people. However, though several may not have earned their expectations, our action does not stop after the elections. We are still as powerful to change a nation as we are to elect a leader for it–after all, unity was the plan all along.

whatonearth

Taken For Granted

by LHIAN JOIE BRANZUELA

Growing up, the most alluring of fairytales were those depicting utopia. Of humanity and nature coexisting for centuries, a never-ending mutualism; where the big bad wolf meets its demise at the end of every story. But this is a far spectacle from the reality now: with the possibility of a sick, twisted ending to the story of Inang Kalikasan becoming realer by the day—and the wolves being humanity themselves— time is running out

Last April, scientists worldwide took to the streets in peaceful protest for the impending climate crisis. This is after the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)’s report revealing that “rapid and deep” cuts to greenhouse gas emissions must be done come 2025, and to keep global warming until or below 1.5 degrees Celsius, in order to avoid the climatic catastrophe that may occur otherwise. “Current actions and plans are grossly inadequate, and even these obligations are not being met,” stated Scientist Rebellion, which comprises over 1000 scientists from 25 countries that joined the demonstration. The protest garnered attention all over the world through social media. As the #LetTheEarthBreathe movement took over, netizens were quick to call for climate justice. Whilst everybody posted their support however, most failed to realize just how much major companies played a role in this detriment. The 47 corporations or ‘Carbon Majors’, contribute the most to global climate change in making the utmost use of fossil fuels and coal. Shell, for example, disclosed 1,377 million tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions in 2020 despite mentioning their use of lower-carbon energy products. In the Philippines, the climate crisis did not go without notice either. It can be recalled at the November 2020 ASEAN Summit that former president Rodrigo Duterte sought climate justice through calling out developed and industrialized nations to cut down on their emissions, as Philippine calamities are a “stark reminder” to fight climate change quickly. Moreover, the Philippine Commission on Human Rights announced in 2019 that the aforementioned 47 fossil fuel companies can now be held accountable for their damage and human rights violations. Yet, these are still pronouncements; even the recently concluded elections—and the campaign season before that— did not quite delve into climate change, but more on economy, agriculture, and employment. The environmental crisis is evidently not the top priority. These companies, as well as government responsiveness, are missing pieces to the puzzling dilemma of climate change; but this does not mean the roles ordinary people play are little to none. Of course, individual efforts to save whatever we have left should not be discouraged. However, it will all boil down to nothing if it isn’t solved from the root—otherwise, the movement will merely be performative. Change can start with one, but should end with many—and with a set date until irreversibility sets in, simply being informed and promoting awareness is not enough. There must be a sense of urgency, not only between individuals but also the state; and such urgency must be channelled into action, demonstration, and seek accountability from major players involved. What happens then, will be a deciding factor in the future of civilizations and this planet.

voxpopuli

rspeaks: Turning Pages

The Philippines—reported as having the world’s longest pandemic-related school closure by UNICEF—now has the Department of Education urging schools nationwide to implement 100% face-to-face classes for the next academic year 2022-2023.

Two months after Gusa Regional Science High School-X (GRSHS-X) conducted their pilot face-to-face simulation, students express their thoughts on the long overdue in-person classes and the potential challenges that come with it.

1.) What are your thoughts as one of the first students to experience limited F2F in school?

I noticed that the school is very stringent about following health protocols, which leads me to believe RS is ready to return to its old practices next year. I’m glad I can learn from my teachers in person rather than on-screen. As a student who has been stuck at home for two school years, I was definitely excited but it was mixed in with a feeling of anxiety as well. The people that I am going to be with are not the same ones that I have always been surrounded with so I had to think about how to approach and talk to them, that was maybe one of the hardest parts.

One of the hardest things that I had to do during the onset of the pandemic was adjust to the distance mode of learning that was implemented. Now that 2 years have passed and the department is readying for the possibility of Face to Face learning in the coming school year, the students will have to once again cope with the changes. Personally, I think that this might be a difficult adjustment.

“ “ “ “ I don’t think it’ll be too easy. I’ll have to change my sleep schedule, and that’s a lot harder than some people make it out to be. But still, I’d definitely agree if they bring back in-person classes next year. Learning will be easier because you’ll actually be taught in person.

Desiree Israel | Grade 11 - Lorenz Hanzelynon Ybañez | Grade 11 - Davy

2.) Will the shift from 2 years of distance learning to the possible full F2F next year be an easy one? Why or why not?

Michael Allosada | Grade 10 Lance Dabad | Grade 9

art by JIREH MAE CASIÑO

braggingwrongs

A Dark Past Ahead

by CHLOE VILLACERAN

Ahistory question wrongly answered is met by a minute’s worth of laughter—at the expense of a sinking reality that our country’s education is in decline. Between the system and social media, Rizal's words echo; and what hope, then, would we bring to our motherland if we disregard her past and put it in vain?

The viral video clip from the reality TV show ‘Pinoy

Big Brother’ sparked media outrage as it showed the teen housemates failing to answer elementary-level trivia questions. For example, instead of ‘GomBurZa’ being the collective name of the three priests who were martyred under Spanish colonization, one of the housemates blurted out

‘MaJoHa’ as their final answer.

This gave birth to a notorious hashtag now used to call out the system’s impotencies. It did not take long for all this to reach the ears of DepEd

Secretary Leonor Briones, who expressed her dismay at a press briefing last April 19. She later said that these educational anomalies were inherited from previous administrations. In her defense, Education Undersecretary Anne Sevilla also stated that trivia questions should not be the basis of someone’s intelligence as the country’s approach to learning is now focused on critical thinking instead of retaining information from textbooks. However, numbers do not lie. It can be recalled in 2020 that the Philippines ranked last in the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA); and just recently, the World Bank released a report last year wherein 80 percent of Filipino students fall short of the required competency levels. Although it is true that some students are also accountable, we should not disregard the fact that even before the pandemic, the country’s education system had already been worse for wear. Yet all this is nothing but a snippet to one of our bigger problems: the blatant display and collaborative support of misinformation on social media. With nothing major being done, it continues to thrive, hindering the truth. With this, it should be a collective effort. Improving the curriculum, implementing media information literacy, and restoring Philippine history as a subject in high school since being removed back in 2014 is a brilliant start. Proper education is a nation’s road to prosperity, so they say. But it is not only our education that is in crisis, but the country’s history as well. Perhaps it is foolish to think the PBB housemates represent everyone else, but they stand as evidence of our own downfall rather than hope. For a nation’s past creates its future, one cannot make it brighter if they put one in the dark.

triedandtrue

Deeds and Did Nots

by GRACIE TAGANILE

For all his constant headlining—whether it be for lambasting foes or political commentary, among others—former President Rodrigo Duterte met the months ending his term without much event. That is, save for tarpaulins and posts cropping up that bear the so-called Duterte Legacy; and scrutiny of said legacy is due.

Economic development through infrastructure has been one of his key agendas since candidacy, promoted under the Build, Build, Build (BBB) program. With this, the administration raised infrastructure spending to 5.3% of economic output in 2021, an increase from 3% during the start of his presidency according to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

While a merit of itself, it must be realized that this infrastructure legacy—out of 119 BBB projects, only 18 were finished at the end of his term. In Mindanao, all five of the major infrastructure projects: Panguil Bay Bridge; Mindanao Railway; Davao City Coastal Road bypass; Davao Expressway; and the General Santos City Airport Industrial Complex; were not completed. Yet a bigger look shows that outside of infrastructure, the country is in dire straits economically. IBON Foundation, an independent think tank released a report comparing the numbers between the start and end of Duterte’s presidency—the number of unemployed Filipinos went from 2.4-M in 2016 to 3.7-M in 2021. Poor Filipinos increased from 23.7-M to 26.1-M, inflation from 1.3% to 4.9%, and debt service from P790-billion to P1.2-trillion.

When it came to the military, the state also allocated more of its resources to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP). “Let it be a policy that you care for people who die for you. So, I made a promise that I will double your salary.” Duterte said in a public briefing last February. True to his word, they received doubled salaries, and 54 projects were completed by the AFP during his term. This included procuring weapons and aircraft for the country’s front.

However, it is also under Duterte that several extrajudicial killings by uniformed personnel were carried out. Under his gruesome regime, the war on drugs killed thousands of Filipinos, with state agencies recording 6,248, while human rights groups revealed it to be nearly 30,000. Among them—farmers, activists, students, and the poor. Democratic spaces shrunk—following the signing of the Anti-Terror Law, the closure of ABS-CBN, and the countless red-tagging done by Duterte’s cronies, both by the AFP and the NTF-ELCAC.

Indeed, credit must be given where credit is due—but it should not be at the cost of turning a blind eye to countless human rights violations, disinformation, and corruption. While his waning days seemed to be quiet, his gruesome legacy was anything but; and the price to be paid is yet to be seen.

art by JIREH MAE CASIÑO

House of Cards

simonsays

by MELIZA ROCAT

On the days leading up to the 2022 elections, one certain Facebook post read: “Maayo nalang naay Tiktok ug Youtube, ang mga libro sa eskwelahan kay bias.”

It was appalling, but was it really surprising? Social media— where most of today’s sociopolitical discourse takes place—allows anyone to upload their own content. Once it gains enough traction, the algorithm will boost it for more to see; evidently,

veracity is the least of “its concern.

In February, the Social Weather Stations (SWS) published a survey reporting that seven out of 10 Filipinos believe the problem of fake news on social media is serious, and that 51% find it difficult to spot it. Similarly, Tsek.ph, a fact-checking initiative by the academe and the media, published a report last April 30 that identified Tiktok as having played a crucial role in pushing false election-related information, and Facebook as a source or repeater of inaccurate claims.

Indeed, there is a disinformation machinery sown into our online spaces. According to Tsek.ph, 92% of their fact checks about president-elect Ferdinand Marcos Jr. were misleading information that favored him; however, 96% of disinformation targeted at vice president Robredo were negative. “The ease with which false or misleading claims can range the social media platforms has helped increase the audience’s chances of encountering disinformation, especially so when many of the claims were repeated or variations of the same,” they stated.

While misinformation has

been a perennial problem, Marcos has wielded it to become what would be this country’s unraveling. Academic research and literature that has since proven the blood spilled during his father’s reign, the disappearance of many, the thievery of treasury, and the economy in shambles—have been shunned in favor of TikTok videos and Facebook posts that whitewash Discourse a dark period in Philippine history. By sowing lies, they have reaped the must always be grounded in return of a dynasty that only wishes to clear its own name; and one can only speculate the next victim. It real data. threatens not only our country’s facts and future, but also the past which is at risk of being rewritten. To that end, discourse must always be grounded in real data, lest the Philippines’ democratic spaces be for naught. Our decisions, which will build not only ourselves but this country, must be based on the truth.

Warning!

Seriousness of the spread of fake news on the Internet

ex. Facebook, Twitter, Youtube

67% 32% very serious 35% somewhat serious

somewhat not serious

5%

3% not serious at all

undecided

24%