PhilArts: Sulo(ng) by The Philippine Artisan

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in this issue VOLUME LXXIII ISSUE I

AN ABRUPT WAR

TO RISK AND PERSIST: A SUCCESS STORY OF A YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR

TH E APPARENT OBSTACLES TO ONLINE LEARNING

SAFE SPACE: BREAKING TH E STIGMA

H EALTH CARE SYSTEM: ILL SUPPORT AND UNH EALTY APPROACH OVER CRISIS

TH E POWER OF SOCIAL MEDIA: CANCEL CULTURE AND ITS TOXICITY

PHASING OUT THE KING OF THE ROADS: GOVERNMENT PAVING A DENT ON THE ROAD AND ON THE POCKETS OF JEEPNEY DRIVERS

FAKE NEWS: TH E FOOTPRINT OF DIGITAL PLAGUE

TH E SOCIETY'S DISEASE: TH E CULTURE OF VICTIM BLAMING

SH EDDING LIGH T ON TH E GRIMNESS OF MARCOSIAN MARTIAL LAW

TH E PLOT OF GROWING RESISTANCE

ANTI-TERROR LAW: A TREATH AND LIBERTY

TO LIFE

NEW NORMAL REALITY: FILIPINOS UNDER POVERTY AND PANDEMIC

'AT FIRST I'D LOST INTEREST'; TUPIAN FRESH MAN REFLECTS ON DISTANCE LEARNING

VITAL ROLE OF YOUTH IN TH E BETTERMENT OF SOCIETY

TOBOK: H OW TH E SOUTH 'S WARRIORS PURSUE HOPE ON TH E STREETS

TRENDS AMID PANDEMIC

PANDEMIC BLUES

FIVE TIPS OF ENCOURAGEMENT: A H ELPING H AND TOWARDS MENTAL H EALTH AWARENESS

DO VOICES ECH O IN TH E PH ILIPPINES?

PROTEST AS A SONG OF HOPE

W HAT IS INSIDE TH E COVID-19 VACCINE?

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EDITORIAL BOARD & STAFF

2020-2021

audrey marielle a. solis

janssen kyle g. hayag

michael james s. wagner

ferdinand m. quinto

alvin john b. medalla

jerry ponce m. mandap

mellecent mae h. legaspi

john peter t. magbuhos

jethro k. escleto

alyanna f. pornete

Editor-In-Chief

Associate Editor in Filipino

Associate Editor in English

Managing Editor

Circulation Manager

News Editor

Features Editor

Literary Editor

Sports Editor

Graphics Editor

senior staff Fercie Dale M. Bayron Mary Carinelli R. Gabatino Mark Louie M. Peralta Joelle Asia M. Belascuain Jocelina M. Sarinas Jezrylle M. Malazarte

Jean Claud P. Abarquez Eliza Marie C. Bato Florenz Christian M. Hutalla Vincent Leonardo V. Lapuz Clint Ashley F. Pimping Angelo V. Pingol

junior staff Askhiea Ashley Amistoso Charlene Gail B. De Asis Edlee Jane M. Agagas Elianna Ong V. Abrantes Gilven John Ryan L. Sidoro Jonas R. Bagaporo Kratch Dave Gatbonton Kuh-kai Delco Kylene R. Aguinaldo Marizen Ira Chua Mark Joseph U. Amparado Mary Josephine DC. Bajada

Romar L. Padilla Sharlene S. Hablado Trixie Ann F. Amador Aildreen John O. Verde Mark John R. Gaboy Patrick John S. Velasco Shaniah R. San Juan Jacquelyn DC. Jimenez Katleen Ivy G. Hermosa Ria Angeli Z. Tarlac Rick Andrei H. Carigma Rommel S. Orencio

Prof. Jennifer P. Alinsunod Technical Adviser

Every day is a battle with a virus we cannot even see but fear for our lives. A piece of clothing is our daily defense to the very strong and fast contagion that can pierce through our lives. However, there is another scary foe aside from this nano virus that has been thriving in the society for ages. Indeed, it’s been there all along, the pandemic just magnified it for a bigger multitude of people. This magazine exposes the realities that you may have already seen when you tried to really open your eyes and take a 360-degree turn. Or you might not have realized yet. It describes the prevalent issues in the country. How there is a different disease that have long been festering in the society—it’s the injustices, oppression, repression, discrimination, and violation of human rights that victimize the poor, the minority, and the masses. It’s been so palpable, yet many people still choose not to blink an eye. It’s so apparent that many people also have been enlightened, urged to move towards a change that gets rid of such cruelties. With more voices amplified, more people are awakened. But the authorities that must be rattled, the ones up above, are still sound asleep. It has been proven how standing up for the rights of the oppressed can make a difference. Now, let's gather more voices for the collective sound to resonate, echoes be loud and clear, and the cries be heard. So long as there are victims of injustices and oppression, the torch will remain ablaze. And the light will be passed upon everyone. Padayon!

An Abrupt War Written by Mary Carinelli R. Gabatino

Illustration by Clint Ashley F. Pimping

The world stopped. It was total silence. We suddenly carried on a war that no one has ever expected. There is a bagarre, but the brawl is coming from an unusual battlefield - a hospital. Many people overlooked the virus at first, or maybe there are still a few who are ignorant. Different health protocols are implemented today but mostly neglect these protocols. This ignorance leads to the ordeal of the people who fight this battle - the frontliners. Most of the work done to fight the virus takes over at the hospital. Since the enemy we are fighting cannot be seen nor touched, medical workers play the most vital role. They take care of the infected patients and make sure that they will survive. Their work will be much easier if we will all follow the established safety measures. Since COVID-19 is a contagious disease, contact tracers also have a crucial role. They ensure to trace all the close contacts of an infected patient. What makes their work harder is not having accurate information. Many people fill up contact tracing forms falsely. As this pandemic started, one affected thing is education. The face-to-face classes were all suspended, and the academic year 2020-2021 turned into online courses. Despite being new to this setup, most educators ensured that the students would learn, and no one would be left behind. Many teachers and instructors still went to schools and universities to accomplish all their works, although we are online classes. After a few months of total lockdown, the workforce gradually returns along with public transportations. Commuters are comparatively more than those who own private vehicles. PUV Drivers are also indispensable to the country’s gradual economic rise, and the passengers should also be mindful of obeying all the health protocols. These actions will be a big help for everyone. Today, we already have the vaccine. Frontline workers spent time developing this. They did all the research and trials so we can go back to what we used to be. Frontliners are compelling people for us to win this. Yet, let us not forget that we are also part of the battle. Get rid of ignorance. Be mindful. Together, we will win this battle.

To Risk and Persist: A Success Story of a Young Entrepreneur Written by Sh arlene S. Hablado

When things don’t go as planned, it sometimes leads you to something greater. It is scarier than it is exciting to finish college. Where am I headed? What are my odds of having a job? How long will it take me to get accepted? So we plan ahead. The common objective is to do good in school in order to have better opportunities which will eventually land us the best careers. That is the plan. Getting that degree will secure my success, or would it? Just like many narratives of fresh college graduates, Carl Jason Villaceran had his fair share of struggles before getting accepted into a job in 2016 that agrees perfectly with his field. As a working student for most of his college years, Villaceran’s drive to succeed was already thriving even before he graduated from Technological University of the Philippines. Not long after, the then BS in Information Technology student became an associate software engineer at an international professional service company. Landing a full-time job in your first year as a graduate must have been comforting. You would do anything to stay and climb higher. However, that was not the case for Villaceran. He had his own vision of success which he did everything to reach. It was a choice between taking the high-risk road or settling with the security he already had. Most of us would choose the latter, but Villaceran saw an ounce of opportunity and went for it. Eventually, he decided to quit his job and pour everything into his online shop, a move only a few would take. The people around him, even his family, questioned his decision of not pursuing the path he studied for years. Being accepted in an associated career of his degree proved his competency in his field. Villaceran used his experience as a foundation to continue his online business and further his advance to the corporate world. Much to the surprise of many, Villaceran’s business became a huge win. The man pursued his chances in the local e-commerce market and became one of the pioneer sellers of Shopee, one of the biggest online selling sites in the country. Through years of perseverance, he is now recognized as the top local online shop for mobiles and accessories. Once a part-time student, now a boss of his very own CJV Enterprises. If he had started a little bit later, the now over-saturated marketspace might lessen his chances of success. Explaining his odds, he said: “The secret ingredient in e-commerce is usually timing, and depending on your niche, of course.”

Juggling the obstacles which come in your way must be an unprecedented trial. From the story of Villaceran, the solution in order to overcome these is to play with your tricks and know your odds. He is a clever businessman who knew how to play along the way. He started young, late into his college years and continued young, early into his adulthood, emphasizing the importance of time. We’re not too late to start, on the contrary we’re also not getting any younger. As the number of people who engage in online platforms increase, so did the perks of his career. Even with the grievances of the COVID-19 pandemic, when asked if this is what he considers success, he said: “I believe that success means doing your best every day... I pride myself on being a hard worker and have always gone above and beyond with everything that I do.” He is a man of work initially after all, which just worked for him perfectly as well. His alma mater, Technological University of the Philippines, is home for engineering and technology professionals. The institution produces graduates who are well-versed in an ever-changing industrial world. One of them is 26 year-old Carl Jason Villaceran who already had a future lying ahead, which only built him to be the young entrepreneur he was meant to be. “Always be hungry for success.” His message seems clear and simple, but he owes it all to his integrity from the very start. The buildup of your driving force might be complicated and unsteady, but once established, your persistence is up to the test. We shouldn’t always rely on the prosperity of time, so we must take trust in the things we can control. Given this challenge, Villaceran’s plan was simple all along: “Do anything that’s necessary to achieve what you desire.” Your ability to sustain the eagerness to stay ahead is already an immense feat. We can only imagine what could proceed if you persist forward. Getting that degree doesn’t really guarantee you certainty. Perhaps we should consider the route of Villaceran, who dared to abandon his comfort, risked everything he worked on, and went straight towards his ambition, unceasing and steady. Even if it was really his guts which made him do something spontaneous — something even you can pull through. The path doesn’t end when you have already played your chances. It only begins when you manage to hold your ground and carry on, no matter the strength of the wind.

Pros The Apparent Obstacles to Online Learning Written by Janssen Kyle G. Hayag

Amidst global pandemic, the educational system changed from traditional face to face learning to online education. It has been almost a year since classes shifted to distance learning yet the struggle of compromised quality education is still visible to our country. With the implementation of another lockdown under the “NCR Plus bubble”, going back to face-to-face classes is still a negative. Various platforms and softwares have helped the students and teachers to cope up with the adjusted set-up of learning. MS Teams, Zoom, and Google Classroom are some of the applications being widely used today. However, a question still lingers—after almost 7 months of online learning, is the new mode of education effective when the setbacks evidently outweigh the positives? Still, here are some of the pros and cons of distance or online learning.

1. You can save money Money is saved in terms of the amount spent by the students who commute going to the school/campus. Even though the cost of everyday life for students varies, shifting to online class diminishes the expenses of transportation.

2. You can do sidelines/part time along with studies

3. Learning at your own pace

Some students are using online classes as an opportunity to look for something else to do like online work aside from their studies. Flexible time means that some can manage to sneak work in their schedule to earn income during the pandemic.

Now for some, learning at their own pace is not a choice due to deadlines and submissions of works. Different students learn in different paces and ways, and online classes give an opportunity to some students to cope up with their strategies in learning.

Cons

1. Trouble using Technology Not all are technologically literate, and this can affect one’s performance in online classes. Most of the time, faculties are having a hard time to explore the capabilities of their software because of little time to adjust from the shifting education system.

3. Distractions are everywhere

2. Mental Health

There are a lot of ways a student/faculty can get distracted during online classes. Unreliable internet connection can be a distraction especially if the one experiencing it are the teachers. Students also get distracted by social media and online games. Since no one knows what they are doing because the teachers and the other students can or can only see their faces through the screens, they tend to watch, play, and scroll through digital platforms during classes.

Mental health problems have risen due to the transition of style of classes. Students, teachers, and professors are affected by this. Online classes could take a toll on people with existing mental health problems while triggering some for others. These health problems could arise from social isolation, increased stress and anxiety, and virtual fatigue brought by online classes.

There are always two sides of the coin, and in this case the negative aspects are overwhelming. Sure there’s a need to continue the learning and there are ways not to freeze the education in our country, but to what extent is the government willing to continue despite the challenges of online learning? On top of that, the lack of resources and the toll this set-up adds to mental health should be addressed properly to lessen the negativity of online classes. The education system in our country proves to be not inclusive for all, and the academic situation of the Filipino youth further worsened in the current coronavirus pandemic. Not all can afford the requirements of an online learning system. Since the health crisis has not been appropriately addressed by the government, our country is nowhere near recovery, face-to-face classes are still not an option. Distance learning, on top of other socio-economic factors, widened the gap between students from the lower class and the upper class of the social strata. Instead of hearing the calls for academic freeze or academic break, the continuation of online learning remains to push through. Let us continue demanding for a safe and quality education sufficient for the existent needs of the students amid the pandemic, holding the local and the national administration accountable. Education is a right, not a privilege!

Health Care System: Ill Support and Unhealthy Approach Over Crisis Written by Jonas R. Bagaporo

“Philippine government eats too many apples a day that keeps the doctors away.”

In a span of a yearlong pandemic, the health care system in the Philippines is considerably not ready and lacks local support as the country’s COVID-19 tally worsened and surpassed one million mark on April 26, 2021. Referral hospitals and other health care facilities were flooded with too many patients that exceeded their accommodating capacities on covid patients and non-covid patients. Late responses and poor-quality prioritization in assessing the country’s problem is one of the causes of the downfall of the country’s people.

Pandemic Sparks A contagious virus has been investigated in our country on January 22, 2020 yet days run until March before the lockdown has taken place. The virus enters our country’s land off guard with a poor health care system and insufficient medical supplies and services. Medical front liners were left in shock and apprehension as they risked their lives at work, entering fully occupied wards, patient’s cars, or outside the facility where the patient is admitted. One factor that contributes to the worsening situation is that when the problem sparks from little to no effect in our lives, the administration failed to stop it from spreading, thus it spread rapidly in our hometown.

Burning Negligence COVID-19 cases surge fast-paced and in a blink of an eye, the Philippines is in blaze and its people are suffocated in the worsening situation. Dianne De Castro is a nurse in Philippine General Hospital (PGH), one of the busiest referral hospitals in the Philippines. She is in her four years service and thus addressing some improvements to the government in the response to the health care system in the country. “I hope the government can re-evaluate the things they are doing and really check in if we are getting the results we should and not be complacent with what we are getting,” De Castro said with regards to the priorities being made by the government “I beg you. Put the country first. In a pandemic and a time of crisis, put people before politics. Put lives before money.” She added. Conforming to this, there are several issues surfaced regarding the funds in fight against the pandemic. The Commission on Audit (COA) released a report finding that the Department of Health (DOH) has “deficiencies” in the use of P67.3 billion fund in pandemic response. The COA added that the fund transfer was not covered by proper documents and it resulted to the delay in medical supply delivery which became the trigger point for the Senate to find irregularities in the supplies especially from Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp. a company incorporated for supply contracts, which eventually stormed by a whistleblower, Krizle Grace Mago.

City Ashes People’s hopes were burnt down into ashes. Today’s situation shows the marked evidence left in the remains of what happened in a year long pandemic. Healthcare workers were exhausted inside their Personal Protective Equipment while serving the masses. They are overworked yet underpaid and that’s the reality they are facing today. Remnant ashes were piled in procession as the Department of Health case bulletin said the death toll is now at 19,763 as of May 21, 2021. Every COVID deceased patient and other suspected patients undergoes cremation. According to the National Task Force on COVID-19 chief implementer Carlito Galvez Jr. “The rule is to cremate the body within 12 hours upon death… to prevent contamination.” As of March 2021, 82 healthcare workers already died of COVID-19 while doing their job in the pandemic. Nurse Maria Theresa Cruz was one of them, “It’s so hard to breathe…Please have mercy on me.” Too many promises were made for adequate protection and additional hazard pay for health workers yet never surfaced. Additional support and concrete effective plans from the administration can ease the pain of healthcare worvkers. They suffered too much for the job they promised to fulfill. The least thing to do is to show them that we are in cohesion from supporting them so their efforts are not in vain [1].

Phasing out the King of the Roads: Government paving a dent on the road and on the pockets of Jeepney drivers Written by Trixie Ann F. Amador Illustration by Mark John R. Gaboy

processing fees. The price can cost between 1.9 to 2.4 million pesos. While jeepney drivers earn barely enough for their daily lives to get by before the modernization plan and before the pandemic occurs. But due to these issues, their source of income also Jeepneys are the old ways of transportation in comes to a halt resulting in finding an alternative the Philippines that date back after World War source of income. 2. It was named the 'King of the Road.' With their colorful and pretty exterior designs while Local transportation groups are still pointing that the parading in the roads of the Philippines. They government should rethink other solutions to the are one of the cheapest modes of public utility jeepney modernization programs. that most Filipinos use. But as time passes by, social media platforms used the things are replaced as people want the so-called Many #NoToJeepneyPhaseout to call out for the authorities modernization. to stop the modernization project. University As an effect of the current dire situation caused organizations, progressive and alliance groups, and by the COVID 19, many jeepney drivers are already concerned individuals continued calling for an active struggling with their source of income. They are and concrete solution that will help to increase the also bothered by the news that their jeepneys income of the jeepney drivers and not to capitalize are being phased out on the roads. Many drivers on the poor. are on the losing end as most of them use their jeepneys as their only source of income ever Cruz, a jeepney driver and member of the National Confederation of Transport Workers Union (NCTU), since. said that the government should allocate a budget. The outline of the plan is to modernize jeepneys It is inevitable to presume that the banks would go with a public utility vehicle (PUV) system that will easy on offering loans for drivers to pay for a new serve as a route within the nearby communities unit. but are restricted to EDSA. In planning, decision-makers should look for the sides The initiative is to bring the harmful vehicular that are included in the situation. Even though the emission of old engines in a jeepney to a halt by modernization program is for a cleaner environment, replacing outdated models and introducing a the government should help the drivers for the transition of the vehicle for the blue collars instead much modern and latest jeepney. of joining big corporations in collecting money. Jeepney drivers do not oppose their reason but rather the process they need to go through to get For the economy to be back in regular shape, the a new vehicle, from the new registration of the government should seriously help the drivers get jeepney and the expenses. The modernization back on the road. This way is much better than is expensive, especially since they don't just pay picking a few groups to qualify for the program. A for the jeepney itself but also the papers and better plan for the drivers and commuters [2]. ith limited time, the traditional jeepneys that are parading through the major roads of the Philippines are on the verge of phase-out as the modernization of transportation is in process.

Written by Jezrylle M. Malazarte Photograph by Kel M. Malazarte

Scrolling updates over updates, a pool of stories is presented online; hilarious memes, sentimental quotes, or even dismay on the latest news are shared within our bubble. Do people take time to process these? To what extent does the sincerity of our reactions, comments, and shares on a post go? As the modern language of connection, these are easier to navigate, but hold much complexity. Will a sad emoji justify the sentiment that goes along with the death of Ka Randy Echanis and Ka Joseph Canlas? Since President Rodrigo Duterte took power, constant articles regarding extrajudicial killings have flooded the newsfeed. Ka Randy Echanis was the national chairperson of Anakpawis and deputy secretary-general of Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP), while Ka Joseph Canlas was the chairperson of Alyansa ng mga Magbubukid sa Gitnang Luzon (AMGL) and vicechairperson of KMP. Both are veteran activists that led the peasant movement towards genuine agrarian reform, social justice, and national liberation for decades. As determined they are in service, so is the administration in implementing fascists policies among its people: “Oplan Kapayapaan”, Memorandum Order No. 32, and Anti-Terrorism Law are counter-insurgency operations that have the goal of ending life rather “conflicts". These were used to victimize them in the most brutal and inhumane ways: Ka Randy was tortured with 40 stab wounds and blunt force trauma on the head before a fatal damage of the aorta, and Ka Joseph was put into coma as a result of criminal negligence on his immediate medical attention: acute respiratory failure and COVID-19 symptoms that were contracted at the detention center while under the police custody. Throughout the years of duty, they bravely withstand imprisonments, harassments, and redtagging accusations that are still persistent among individuals engaged in defending the rights of Filipinos. Simply having an opinion can cause one’s life now, what more if demanding for your own land? These consecutive offenses against the peasant community built further resentment towards the state and its reactionary machines who are also liable for the death of 340 farmers, Bloody Sunday Massacre victims, Tumandok 9, and other indigenous groups and peasant activists committed to the advancement of the struggle. Indeed, there are no reaction buttons that could fit to encapsulate the heaviness of their demise; even in the face of defeat, the positions they have left will only become a reason to persist. Still, the disputed land of the Philippines has a fight to win---the dismantling of oppressive systems that is greatly evident in the aggravated state of the agrarian sector under Duterte's regime. Will an online thread suffice to cover and discuss these issues?

NeoLiberal Policies Rice Liberalization Law or RA 11203, signed last February 15, 2019, is the replacement of existing quantitative restrictions on rice import. It allows unlimited importation from other countries, given that a 35% tariff for ASEAN and a 50% for non-ASEAN will be required. The intention is to lower the price of rice and reduce the inflation rate through the properties of supply and demand as foreign competitors are presented in the market. Though it seems like a pleasing solution to the issue of rice shortage, it is only a band-aid fix that will drastically risk the local production and food security of the country in the long run. In the second year of RLL, the palay price dropped from suggested P20/kilo to P10-15/kilo according to the released data of Amihan Federation of Peasant Women. With such reduction of farmgate price and a required capital of at least P74,000/hectare per production, unreasonable income and a calculated P164 billion financial loss are dictated which make it difficult for local farmers to compete with the cheaper produces; considering that they also shoulder the total cost of irrigation, commercialized seeds/input materials and privatized post-harvest facilities/ equipment, without sufficient support from the government or landowners. Despite the Rice Competitive Enhancement Fund (RCEF) that allocates 10% of the revenue to rice credit assistance of the beneficiaries, the numerical analysis of the situation can end agriculture if continued. After all, our farmers are bound to venture into other opportunities that pay off their living expenses. If only investing and boosting of local production are acknowledged by the government, the stability of rice and its supply can be achieved without the decline in rice self-sufficiency (97% in 2017 to 79.8% in 2019) and the embarrassment of being the number one importer of rice, in contempt of its prominence as an agricultural country. It does not stop. Liberalization strikes with another anti-farmer program that is currently on its third and final reading: Resolution of Both Houses No. 2 (HB2) or Economic Charter Change asserts amendments to the 1987 Constitution's economic provisions of restricting foreign investments in the country. By simply putting the phrase “unless otherwise provided by law” a widened area of institutions including education, science and technology, media, sports and other indicated conditions are subjected to foreign equity and reservation of at least 60% ownership of the state, Filipino citizens, or corporations. It is presented as assistance from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, but to argue, there is no need for foreign direct investments since it is not necessary for development (ex: Taiwan and South Korea).

The annual fall of gross domestic product in the data provided by the World Bank only justifies the contrast of its purpose. Cha-cha will award the foundation of an export-oriented and importdependent country; maximizing the profit through the growth of plantations and agricultural businesses devoted to high-value crops/"cash-crop" farming which create risks of monopolization and further abuses on farmers and farmworkers — another scheme to maintain the status quo that benefits landlords, comprador bourgeoisie and corporations.

Supposedly, it had a 10-year completion, but due to backlogs and partial results, it was repeatedly extended with an amendatory law, CARPER, to stretch the timeframe which ended in 2014 with failures. Although presented as a centerpiece program, CARP and CARPER have loopholed provisions that remain consistent in bypassing the genuine distribution and control of land: •

Feudal Landlessness The oppressive system of encomienda during the Spanish colonialism in the 1500s took form as a political-economic issue of land-grabbing; consistently maintained throughout the years by exploitative conditions of tenancy, usury, and slavery of local farmers and farmworkers in order to maintain and expand “claimed” properties of those in power. Reasonably, it is not difficult to assert who has rightful ownership of agricultural lands; rural and indigenous communities cultivated it for centuries, but the problem is deeply ingrained and covered in excuses of landuse conversions for economic development schemes. One of the gruesome news concerning the matter is the continuous attacks of Yulo-Ayala goons that started last August 2020 in Sitio Buntog of Hacienda Yulo in Calamba, Laguna. Dubbed as a warzone, houses were demolished and burned down while peasant families experienced violent harassment and threats that involved high-caliber gun pointing, shooting, beating and destruction of properties. Ayala Land, through San Cristobal Realty Development Corporation, has a residential housing program that is part of Nuvali project. Without legal basis since development permit is unclearly presented, displacement was forcefully pushed through; silently dismissed by the municipality of Calamba. Hacienda Yulo has called for a genuine agrarian reform for over 100 years. This is to assert their rights to the 7,100 hectares of ancestral land that is now turned into a kingdom of landlords with residential, commercial, and urban development projects. On the recent threats as of July 2021, Lupang Aguinaldo, Lupang Kapdula, and Lupang Ramos in Cavite have notices of demolition that prove the apparent cases of land-grabbing amidst the pandemic. With uncovered incidents from other provinces that hold similar narratives, the agrarian sector is slumped into further hunger and poverty. Even in the time of crisis, their need for production subsidy and cash assistance was falsely provided; constantly ranking them in the highest of poverty incidence estimation by Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) — a position which indicates the utter disregard of their importance as food security frontliners.

Bogus Agrarian Reforms In 1988, a law mandated by Ex-president Corazon Aquino aimed to provide agricultural lands based on previous agrarian reforms: Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) includes development program of alienable and disposable lands (A&D) and redistribution program of agricultural government-owned lands (GOLs) and private agricultural lands (PALs) with a support service for its beneficiaries through Agrarian Reform Fund and Agrarian Justice Delivery.

• • •

A requirement of amortization for over 30 years with 6% annual interest on GOLs. Leasehold Operation (LHO) - a non-land transfer agreement between landowner and tenant that allows the share in produces and control of PALs Stock Distribution Option (SDO) a cooperative scheme of granting local farmers with shares on the capital stocks of PALs Agribusiness Venture Arrangements (AVAs) an entrepreneurial collaboration between the beneficiaries and private investors involving the farming of high-value crops on PALs.

Through these arrangements, slave wages as lows as P9; fraud SDO agreements like in Hacienda Luisita; and risk of food sovereignty due to “cash crop” instead of staple food production like the monopoly of Cavendish banana and pineapple in Mindanao; severely damage the rights and dignity of local farmers. Issues such as lack of support service, technical and financial resources, access to post-harvest facilities, and assistance in marketing resulted in debt of land taxes and illegal sales/lease transactions that also signifies the shortcoming of CARP, leaving local farmers eventually landless. Now on its 33rd anniversary, Duterte’s regime pursued the CARP Phase 2 with a planned conversion of 1.6 million hectares of agricultural land for a development program that is c urrently fast-tracked in preparation of Cha-cha. Considering the fallout of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) with its lowest number of turnovers in the history of CARP (142, 806 hectares from 2016-2020), the priority of the administration clearly lies within the interest of the ruling class. Calling it "a period of reawakening" only plagues local farmers of revolutionizing for genuine agrarian reform: GARB or House Bill 555 that has the objective to destroy monopoly and foreign control; end feudal and semi-feudal exploitation; increase income and raise the standard of living through cooperatives and mutual aids that improve the production; assert rights to ancestral domain and empowerment of rural women and indigenous people; which develop the agrarian sector and lay a foundation of national industrialization. With the long-standing land struggle that coexists with the emancipation of Filipinos, it would be restricting to relate in the comfort of a digital space without the integration to the problem of the masses. But contradicting it may seem, it is becoming a place of awareness in this generation. From the same reactions, comments, and shares, the exchanges of political opinion and discourses are opened; creating another platform to arous e, organize and mobilize in support of the movement. To put it easily, #StandWithFarmers does not stop as a hashtag in social media. Beyond the screen and into the streets, it is a community that strengthens with the force of the peasantry.

Anti-Terror Law:

A threat to life and liberty

Written by Ferdinand M. Quinto Illustration by Patrick John S. Velasco

"A blow too soon struck for freedom is better than a blow too late." These are words from the Supreme Court on the case of Chavez vs. Gonzales as it was used by the 37 petitioners to anchor a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) against the Republic Act 11479 or the AntiTerrorism Act of 2020. On the joint motion that was filed last February 22 of this year, the petitioners believes that the Anti-Terrorism Act violates 15 of 22 provisions in the Bill of Rights, which are the following: 1. Free speech 2. Freedom of religion 3. Freedom of assembly 4. Freedom of association 5. Freedom of the press 6. Due process of law 7.Freedom from unreasonable searches and seizures 8. Right to privacy 9. Right to travel 10. Right to bail 11. Presumption of innocence 12. Freedom of information 13. Right against ex post facto laws 14. Right against torture and incommunicado detention 15. Academic freedom Last June 7, this year, there were 103 groups and individuals that cooperatively wrote to Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo and Justice Secretary Menardo I. Guevarra to create necessary actions against the said law. The letter includes the pending cases opposing the effectivity of Anti-Terrorism Act, the revision of rules in terms of search and warrants, and recognizing the work of human rights defenders. Anti-Terrorism Act was approved last July 3, 2020. As stated in Section 4 of R.A. 11479, it defines terrorism as: (a) Engages in acts intended to cause death or serious bodily injury to any person, or endangers a person’s life. (b) Engages in acts intended to cause extensive damage or destruction to a government or public facility, public place or private property.

(c) Engages in acts intended to cause extensive interference with, damage or destruction to critical infrastructure: (d) Develops, manufactures, possess, acquires, transports, supplies or uses weapons, explosives or of biological, nuclear, radiological or chemical weapons; and (e) Release of dangerous substances, or causing fire, floods or explosions.

A threat to life On the Day 3 of oral arguments, Supreme Court Associate Justice Benjamin Caguioa interrogated the extensive powers of the terror law. He also questioned the issue of warrant of arrest by the Anti-Terror Council which in the Constitution and jurisprudence, the courts and the judges have the power to issue those warrants. On the other hand, Associate Justice Marvic Leonen said that he understands that this law brought some fear to most people, to consider a law void - it must be clear & convincing, and there would not be any other interpretation except the infringement on a certain right. Since the Election 2022 is nearly approaching, Christian Monsod, former Commission on Elections chair said that this law can be a deadly weapon that can be used to the purposes of one party and affect the will of the people. Monsod describes the law as “a proxy for martial law with even broader authoritarian powers”, and alarming for some provisions and the lack of due process towards the so-called suspects. A law professor, Antonio La Vina, said that the Anti-Terror Law can be used to harm activists as the government kept on red-tagging them as terrorists. He added that the law was vague as there is no definition of many of the acts. To recall, the first person who had been charged under the Anti-Terrorism Law are the two Aetas from Zambales for an alleged shooting spree that killed a soldier, which also prosecuted them for the violation of Illegal Possession

“a proxy for martial law with even broader authoritarian powers”

of Firearms. The National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers (NUPL) on its petition-in-intervention for the two Aetas, stated that the Section 4 of the Anti-Terror Law does not only leave ordinary citizens guessing at its meaning but also invites arbitrary and discriminatory enforcement.

A threat to liberty Today, when free speech is used to enlighten people in some community problems, some government fanatics and some government officials associated it with being “dilawan” or red-tagged them to get away from the real issues concerned. Instead of addressing the problems, they simply make ways to misdirect the public to what is really happening. As this law gives the right to the AntiTerror Council to issue a warrant of arrest without getting to the courts and judges, it might be a threat to the lives of the people as how the government currently handles their critics. Regardless of race, religion, and status in life, the citizens of this country are still facing unfair treatment in its justice system which gives an implication that this law threatens life and liberty of the people as it may be used to harm oneself and be favorable to the will of others. With the kind of government we have, it would be hard to tell if the real intention of the law will be manifested. As citizens of this country, let’s be vigilant and know our rights to protect ourselves in the near future. With the right amount of knowledge, we can be fully equipped to know what we can do. We could also lend our hands to other people, especially those who do not know their rights at all. We can create not just echoes, but voices. Together, we can save our lives and fight for our liberty [3].

Role of Youth FOR the "BetteR" NORMAL Written by Fercie Dale M. Bayron Illustration by Mark John R. Gaboy For countless times, we hear the infamous line that Jose Rizal had left: “Ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan.” Generations have passed and the youth has slowly grown, each with their unique ways of helping the society become a better place. Essentially, the youth is the backbone of the society; therefore, the future relies on them. Their actions, words, skills, and even innovations will highly impact society in the future. Nowadays, more younger people are taking part in various organizations that primarily deal with social awareness. There are students participating in campus journalism, activism, and advocacy, but unfortunately, some people misjudge their intention in joining such activities. We are not strangers to the news of students being red tagged just because they were seen in a rally, wrote an article regarding a political matter, or supported an advocacy. Ironically, the future of our society is criticized for playing the vital role imposed on them. In hopes of enlightening people on how the youth helps the society to become better, there are vital roles that the youth fulfill to improve the nation.

Campus Journalism Journalism, in general, has changed the way people live in their daily lives. For Filipinos, it has become a reliable foundation of worthy and relevant reports, while also sharing well-thought opinions on the social aspect of the community. It is exactly what campus journalism does at campus level. They advocate for educational progress, voice out students’ rights, and promote the welfare of those who are within the community. Campus journalism does not only allow the youth to be good at their crafts, but it lets them be more aware of their freedom to express and to inform. There are various campus issues addressed by student journalists that potentially help in bringing the administration's attention. As everyone’s insights and opinions matter, the youth showcase them in a platform where a wider range of audience can reach. More campus journalism utilizes social media in doing so. Furthermore, student journalists use their growth in the journalism field as a way to improve critical thinking, creative thinking, strengthening moral character, and practicing discipline as a Filipino youth. Naturally, a student journalist is bound to improve their journalistic skills where it includes social awareness and responsibility over information gathering and expression. But in reality, the youth plays a crucial role in campus journalism especially with the current state of campus journalism. Trolls, wrong information, and oppression have proliferated and become a threat to campus journalism. They are large obstacles that intimidate not just the mainstream press but also student journalists. For example, when an administration intervenes in the publication process that causes delays in dissemination important information around the campus. Or when trolls try to attack an online publication by spreading ad hominem attacks or disinformation.

Moreover, the pandemic added a new challenge to the already threatened campus journalism. Campus journalists had to adapt to the online environment and step out of the traditional journalism practice: interviews were held via video calls, more digital arts were needed because getting actual photos is challenging, and the technological barrier. But this will not stop campus journalists from bringing information to the online audience, especially when more people have access to online platforms. It further showed that campus press freedom is more vital than ever because it is the key in bridging the virtual school community and the normal school life that everyone had before the virus hit. Generally, the youth carries the burden of providing their student community the platform to voice out the student’s thoughts and support their welfare while facing intimidation from inner and outer oppressors, disinformation, and lack of support.

ACTIVISM Probably one of the things that the youth get called out most is when they join progressive activities. Students or even out-of-school youths are shamed for being activists as they are associated with being terrorists and communists. When students take their voices out in the streets, it is like the rest of the population finds a way to attack them and their purpose. Of course, rallying is not the only way to promote changes and betterment in the society, but when the youth do, they are dragged into countless threats and oppression. Most people do not know the difference between activists from other groups that aim for a change in society. Students who join rallies, publish their criticism against the administration, and more are some of those involved in activism. There are various laws and changes done because of activism which some people fail to recognize. But with the Anti-Terror Law coming into the picture, the discussion on activism versus terrorism ignites even more. However, it will not faze the youth to start a change. Even the pandemic cannot stop the students from holding those who are accountable with the worsening of various sectors such as education, red-tagging, employment, sexual harassment and a lot more. The dangers of the Anti-Terror Law along with those who want to take down student activism, playing the role in helping the society to improve will be continuously hard for the youth.

ADVOCACY The youth has also been active in spreading advocacies that can help in improving the community. It has the same purpose as any of those in this list, but advocates are usually confused with activists. In essence, activists usually work “outside” to create change while advocates work “inside” to help in being the change. There are actually a lot of youth advocates in the Philippines which focus on the socio-civic aspect of the community so they can leave a lifetime improvement in the said sector, but there are also other advocacies where the youth has been actively involved. Being an advocate allows the youth to lead in initiating the betterment of society. Nowadays, young boys and girls suffer from various injustices and it has become a motivation for the youth in general to raise more awareness and help in promoting the welfare of not just the young people, but other social concerns too. With the pandemic and on-going problems in the country, youth activism is even more significant and urgent. More political, environmental, and social issues have arisen amidst the pandemic that the youth are encouraged to speak up more than ever. And this is where youth activists help in voicing out the advocacies in the streets to let the proper administration take actions on the problems. Hopefully, more people will support the youth in helping make the country a better place to live instead of pointing out how much young people complain. Campus journalism, student activism, and advocacy are all safe ways that the youth found to be helpful in providing their fellowmen a solution to the issues the world has now. In time, let’s hope that more young people and adults will join forces to change and listen to opinions and problems. It will help everyone achieve a better society by acting and not just speaking [4].

Tobok: How the South’s Warriors Pursue Hope on the Streets Written by Kratch Dave C. Gatbonton Photograph by Alvin John B. Medalla

For Lumads, education's key to success is a torch with a blazing fire. For Lumads, education's key to success is a torch with a blazing fire. Holding the lit torch is a signal to be first in the revolutionary line so that those behind can follow the path they are on. Unsure of what lies ahead but relentless in stepping towards the desired destination. The lost minds knock on the door of consciousness, holding the remaining knowledge available for the fight. There are shouts from the voices of the trampled, the lost, and the impoverished human beings who hope to breathe the air of change. On the busy street of Padre Faura in Manila, passers-by could hear indigenous people shouting. Carrying placards and a small bottle of water, they hoped to be heard by those who have power. Their grievances are varied, including about education, health, nature, rights, and intangible justice. Behind their vivid and colorful attires conceal faded experiences. On that same street, a girl with a mic spoke. There was fear and doubt in her, yet she kept shouting. She is one of the Lumad children who bravely fight to achieve the aspirations of their clan. In her colorful attire, you will not notice her tears and the sorrow she feels caused by so many challenges the society has thrown. "If we don't fight, who will fight for us?" was the sentence the girl left. At a young age, she learned to be critical and to fight. Their voices serve as their only weapon to flatten the massive fence surrounding the fascist man. The Warriors’ Identity Lumad is the collective term for the indigenous groups from the southern part of the Philippines. They are some of the poorest citizens today contrary to their culture and raw materials in their ancestral lands. The reported murders, imprisonments, and land grabs by their superiors are very alarming. Even the word ‘terrorist’ has been added to their identity. One of the challenges they are currently facing is the removal of their right to access quality education. Many schools were forcibly shut down by the administration. Hilarious to think that the Department of Education's goal is always to “protect the children” and “uphold their right to education” yet still choose to close down schools. The Robbed Key Since the beginning of the Duterte administration, teachers have experienced uncountable times of Network, a non-governmental organization that against Lumad schools. It is as if they have been deprived of the destiny to live in consider a treasure, and deprived of education that would abusive and deceptive pro-mass system. Children should be enjoying their childhood in amusement classroom, not on streets fighting for their rights and targets of violence. Lumad children deserve to be safe

at least 180 Lumad schools have been forcibly closed. Students and harassment, illegal arrests, and aerial bombings. Save Our Schools advocates the children's rights for education, has listed over 500 attacks peace. They have often been captured in conflicts, robbed of land they have served as a key to avoid foolishness. They are victims of the parks with their family, counting numbers inside a peaceful looking for unfound justice. They should not experience and be and have access to quality education.

The Blazing Fire Tobok, a Manobo term influences every warrior thinking, and aspirations right against the tyrant blazing flame on the torch. education will keep that by many.

that means “to fight with spear and shield,” from the south. Their tenacity, critical keep them alive in the tussle for their man. Lumads, themselves, are the Their yearning to fight not just for fire burning and will glow to be seen

Lumads do not differ from much harder. Their key to of life and death. As their authorities make the difficult to overcome.

us. It is just that their sufferings are success is a movement that is a matter battle for hope continues, fascist struggle they encounter increasingly

Perhaps tomorrow, they Faura. Both voices, faces, our ears and eyes. But their mouths, know that their forefathers inherited justice, rights, education, thread in the colorful cloth

will shout again in the streets of Padre and fights can be heard and seen by with every word that comes out of it carries with it the courage that from them; their continued pursuit of and life strengthens the bundle of attached to their bodies.

One day, like birds be freed from the railing of There will be a comprehensive voice action that will of the present. They will move forward as the elevated

flying in the blue sky, Lumads will lies developed by previous generations. be an investment to address the deteriorating situation light reflects. And they deserve it [5].

PANDEMIC BLUES Prospecting the Philippines’ “Better Normal”

Written by Sharlene S. Hablado

Photograph by John Peter T. Magbuhos

“New” does not always mean “better”. Just like the fresh and unfamiliar scene of a beach in the metro, or even the unprecedented jurisdiction over human rights, they did not necessarily count on the country’s short-listed pandemic success. Rather praise, social media echoed dismay and compelling criticisms of worn-out individuals. The assault of COVID-19 has birthed multi-sectoral responses which established the country’s version of “new normal”. The long-standing name acknowledges heightened measures, restrictions and health compliances in attempts to contain the virus and recognize the state’s public health emergency. Amidst the crisis, the pursuance of a sustainable future is underway. Sustainability meant ecological stability and human development at the same time. Even before anyone has predicted the onslaught of the invisible enemy, sustainable progress is funded and laid out on international platforms. What good will the future be with no prospect of moving forward? Now that it has been highlighted once again, one has to realize in retrospect, what has become of the Philippine environment.

Scouting for Economic Refuge City folks may have been fascinated by the clearer skies and toned down bustle of the streets a few weeks into lockdown. Dr. Bagtasan of UP IESM reminded that in 2016, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources has estimated 80% of the city’s air pollution from the emission of motor vehicles which were extremely limited at the strictest lockdown protocol implemented at the time. The sudden change has removed the blanket of air pollution over Metro Manila which gave the false idea of “the world is healing”. The norm seems to have rested but on the other hand, the economy has slowly been gasping for security. Money-importing businesses and corporations paused which made the government play with the amendment of legislations to “recover” the economy – a one-sided guise of exploitation. Of course the fight for the economy didn’t stop a few days into lockdown. In April 2021, EO 130 frees mining corporations from

their 9-year ban. The once anti-mining parade of the government now falls deaf to profiteers. In their eyes, the opportunities of the open-pit mining industry is what revives the ailing situation. The ordinance allows expansion of mining operations which threatens protected areas and drives indigenous tribes to the border. This favored sector has already set a record on most killed environmentalists in Philippine history, but – of course – its inappreciable share on the country’s GDP seemed to be overpraised by the administration.

Cutting the Lungs of the Metro The attack on urban forest parks did not end on the countless hurdles of Arroceros forest park in Manila over the years. The country’s COVID-19 response has targeted Nayong Pilipino Clark in Paranaque City to carry out a mega vaccination site which would cater the incoming vaccines. The site has been surrounded with controversy since early May, 2021. "The vaccination of thousands of Filipinos everyday is definitely for a public purpose; it is not a commercial venture," says the Department of Tourism, even if billionaire Enrique Razon Jr.'s ICTSI Foundation is in eye to eye with Nayong Pilipino Foundation, a private versus public entity. Many institutions have been vacant and are appropriate for localized vaccination sites which renders the proposal questionable and misdirected. Even if vaccine czar Carlito Galvez Jr. of the National Task Force Against COVID-19 (NTF) claimed that the ecosystem will not be harmed, they still consciously posed an unfair trial between trees and people - where one doesn’t equate the significance of the other.

Sailing Over Biodiversity In March of 2021, more than 200 Chinese fishing vessels were spotted over controversial waters in which the Philippines has taken claim. The anchorage was blamed for the harmful concentrations of algae - visible enough for satellite images according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Including the illegal harbor of vulnerable species and issues of neglect and marine degradation in the said area, the Philippine government has yet to withdraw their pro-China stance since 2016 - which is as if a far cry of the locals even in the state of environmental emergency. The maritime dispute on the West Philippine Sea not only challenges the country’s territorial sovereignty but also its marine biodiversity and the livelihood of many small-scale fishermen. The authoritative artificial lands and armed vessels advancing the seas claimed not just geopolitical advantage but also its natural resources and thriving ecosystem. The already fragile water is as if being drained over and over again as the assertion of dominance stretches on. Adding to the pandemic backlash is the refurbishing of the country’s name on the top list of most ocean plastic polluters in the world. Plastic consumption has skyrocketed this pandemic as businesses and medical institutions take on extra measures through disposable utensils and PPEs. Where does plastic waste go? This has been a huge issue around the world even before the pandemic since plastic waste takes centuries to decompose. The Philippines has contributed 0.75 million metric tons of plastic per year and we can only imagine how much it increased now that behavioral changes had occurred in the pandemic. An expedition in the Philippine Trench revealed plastic waste that has reached the ocean floor. Medical waste has also been recovered by locals in beaches along Cebu city, raising questions on how and why dangerous waste was found there. We have already reached heights in COVID-19 cases, now even depths in plastic pollution. Tons of disposable masks found in the sea scares the health community, afterall, the pandemic started by crossing the boundaries between human and nature. We can only hope that the wave of infectious waste in our waters does not wash ashore.

Thinking Back and Looking Forward Pre-pandemic, environmental degradation raises the conversation of remedial action profoundly. In the state of economic pause and reconciliation, the crisis was tagged as a breather for nature, not shortly before it claimed its last breaths of air. The conflict between the environment’s healing and economic recovery did not last long as the aforementioned is thought to sustain more lives. The “new normal” raised the curtain to our challenged sustainability and the state of the nation’s relapse. Recognizing only a few of many environmental affairs of today’s nation restates the vision of a “better normal”, which is as if a far faint light at the end of the tunnel. The Philippine climate has flipped upside down. Community-based solutions and resilient actions are only necessary to implement as we move forward towards a wishful end of this historic era. Along with this call for just transition is the response of every individual concerning their very welfare in the years to come. As much as the government needs to boost their transformative measures, its people need to embrace immediate changes and allow themselves to adapt in a sustainably modified society. Acceptance is only a step to further the relationship between us and the environment in which we live [6].

Do Voices Echo in the Philippines? Written by Jezrylle M. Malazarte Photograph by Alvin John B. Medalla “Just because you are a journalist, you are not exempted from assassination if you are a son of a bitch. Freedom of expression cannot help you if you have done something wrong.” These are the words of President Rodrigo Duterte in 2016 on the protection of press freedom. Years have passed, the Philippines consecutively ranked down on the World Press Freedom Index, recently placed at 138th out of 180 countries, in comparison to its 127th spot last 2017. The Commission of Human Rights (CHR) dubbed that this is “a worse state of press freedom” as the administration continuously works to systematically attack journalists, media institutions, activists, and anyone who articulates political sentiments and dissent against the government.

WEAPONIZED The current political climate of the country intensified the fear and danger of the public with bureaucratic control and use of the laws: • RA No. 10175 or the Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 that was primarily established to secure the operations and interactions on digital spaces, thus expanded with additional provisions of punishing libelous statements on social media, was used to convict Maria Ressa and Reynaldo Santos Jr. of Rappler for the published article in 2012 accusing Wilfredo Keng’s link to Reynato Corona and his involvement in illegal drugs and human trafficking. The issue was long overdue and was only processed in 2020, followed by numerous charges against Maria Ressa to pursue the suppression of the free press. • RA No. 11469 or the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act provided emergency powers to the president on implementing necessary actions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic; inclusion of provision penalizing the spread of false information on different platforms was applied by authorities to discern critical reports and posts as chargeable cases. Not to mention, the further restriction on the press caused by the outbreak as the Inter-Agency Task Force for Management of Emerging Infectious Disease (IATF-MEID) required accreditation ID for the press to pass security checkpoints during lockdowns indicated obvious opposition to the constitutional rights for freedom, access to sources and the people's right to know. • RA No. 11479 or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 which allowed warrantless arrest and imprisonment for broadly and vaguely discussed acts of terrorism, imposed threats, and opened red-tagging accusations on which alleged individuals are connected to the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), New People’s Army (NPA), or National Democratic Front (NDF) for discredit of military’s human rights violation reports on peasants and indigenous groups communities. While the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA) “compelled” members of community media to sign a “Manifesto of Commitment” in 2019 to affirm their support on the implementation of Executive Order No. 70 that has an objective to end communist armed conflicts, such intimidation of forced approval was reprehensible for suspicious intentions and concerns about the rights and safety of the media. If analyzed closely, these are operational tactics of the government since for the longest time the press constantly battles the never-ending state attacks. On the joint report of Freedom for Media, Freedom for All (FMFA) Network, there were 171 accounted incidents against the press from January 2019 – April 2020 which were done on different forms: killing, intimidation, threat, harassment, assault, libel, arrest and more, that existed both physically and prominently online just when pro-Duterte troll armies were persistent on spreading misinformation and disputes.

SHADOW OF PAST DICTATORSHIP The blatant repression of press freedom manifested in the shutdown of the largest broadcasting company in the country: ABS-CBN. Before the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) issued a cease-and-desist order, franchise renewal was applied in 2016 but unfortunately dismissed by the congress, which has the power to renew media licenses, for the reason of having more important priorities to attend. Duterte’s unresolved grievances of alleged biased coverage may have caused the network to forcefully go off-air, however, this only shows the concrete reflection of the Marcos regime when media control was apparent; formal declaration of martial law is unnecessary this time, for impunity literally faces us through the actions of the government. 35 years after the empowering mass movement to oust Ferdinand Marcos (EDSA Revolution), the press is relentlessly challenged to demand for the people’s right so that the foreseeable remains which tormented the past would be avoided. Now that even the laws are compromised, compliance would only mean blind obedience if not for the interest of the public. Also, if history repeats itself, there is no doubt that people would still tolerate the adversities caused by the administration. As a cornerstone of democracy, the call for #DefendPressFreedom protects the political and civil rights of the citizens. Expose any forms of oppression and amplify one another in expressing own grievances toward incompetencies and injustices—a collective action would only entail genuine freedom for all Filipinos [7].

"We have done it before. We could do it again."

New normal reality; Filipinos under poverty and pandemic

Written by Michael James Wagner Photograph by Ria Angeli Z. Tarlac

“Mahirap maging mahirap. Walang pagkukunan ng kailangan,” Words from taxi driver Reynaldo Alcala who insisted on his reasons for continuing his taxi operation despite the ongoing enhanced community quarantine that time. Same sentiments shared by Ronald Balladares, a fruit juice factory worker in Cubao who said that “It’s safer not to go out. But if we do not go out, we will not eat”. Many Filipinos especially on the poverty line have experienced double of the struggles brought by the pandemic, the restriction to work onsite and the fear from being slashed out from work due to wide eyed retrenchments, will make you check your privilege and the extent of this situation to their day to day life.

What has pandemic brought to the marginalized? Pandemic changed their life. Due to the adversity of the situation, many bid farewell to their used jobs and began begging on the streets to fetch food to ease their hunger. Vendors who used to sell different products began selling nothing but words to attract passers-by to give them something to eat, jeepney drivers who used to drive along bustling roads and guide many of their passengers to their respective destinations began carrying their signages to call for help. The marginalized sector at instance was put into challenge, over hunger or COVID.

When the fear of hunger frightens more than COVID. ‘Walang wala na’, used to be a banter phrase before but became a usual scenario for many Filipinos right after the pandemic hit the streets. Unemployment increased due to wide eyed local lockdowns and restrictions cutting the transportation and business sector. According to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the January 2021 figure translates to an unemployment rate of 8.7% or almost 4 million Filipinos unemployed, as businesses struggle to open amid the coronavirus pandemic. By not having a source of income means the incapability of buying food to eat, basic commodities, and used needs. COVID kills but many suffer from hunger more.

S.A.P not enough The government may have done its dues to support the trying community, but it's assistance is still not enough to support the affected sector. According to the September SWS survey, the national average Social Amelioration Program (S.A.P) received was P7,531 per family from the start of the COVID-19 crisis. The survey found considerable variation, by area, in the receipts of a family. The average total ‘ayuda’ per family was P11,024 in Metro Manila, P7,841 in Balance Luzon, P6,832 in Visayas, and P5,664 in Mindanao. This is a much-needed help for most Filipino families but current prices of basic commodities found in the market today, will make you say ‘this is not enough’.

If the government can’t, the people can! When The government placed the National Capital region (NCR) and other neighboring provinces under lockdown from March 29 to April 4, only 8 in 10 low-income Filipinos and workers in the ‘NCR Plus’ sought to be entitled to financial assistance. This means that there will be families who wouldn’t receive assistance due to financial constraints and budget allocation for area, but this problem was immediately asserted by a Filipina, Ana Patricia Non who initiated the first ‘community pantry’ of its kind in Maginhawa Street that later grew and reached several places in the country. This initiative to help Filipino families and individuals to survive the pandemic by providing free food and services for others, proves substantially the resiliency of the Filipinos amid the crisis, and the slow response of the government to assert the situation. These are all products of goodwill and ‘Pagbabayanihan’, not depending on the government’s action alone but making ways to help one another. The aftermath of the incompetence and wrongful decisions of the administration from the past are now hitting back to the marginalized. The ineffectiveness to suppress COVID-19 from the very beginning has borne fruit to what we call suffering and poverty experienced by the majority today. You may want to check your privilege, staying in an air-conditioned room, having the chance to eat whatever food you wish to have, to the privilege that was taken out to the poorest of the poor. This seems to be the new normal now! As we wait for the pandemic to end, poverty and hunger will be part of the extent we never expected to have [8].

"mah irap maging mah irap. walang pagkukunan ng kailangan"

‘At first I’d lost interest’: TUPian fres hman reflects on distance learning Written by Romar L. Padilla Illustration by Jean Claud P. Abarquez

“Kahit na may katamaran ako sa mga subjects at wala akong interes, ginaganahan pa rin akong pumasok dahil sa mga kaklase kong makakukwentuhan at gagala.” That’s how a first-year mechanical engineering student, Shem John Escobal, described his roller coaster high school life before a crippling virus hit the nation that forces lockdowns disrupts his long lists of supposed college freshman plans. But when asked how the distance education changed his way of learning, he will now give you an answer that goes like this: “Alam kong naging madali na ang lahat pero nabawasan na ang aking interes.” Shem could be envied by many: He is currently a DOST scholar - a scholarship that only the students with sheer guts and determination in science discipline could acquire. In addition, he is also being educated in a prestigious and renowned engineering university - without worrying any miscellaneous fees. But the seemingly ace student is also vulnerable that he had to face different struggles, concerns, and doubts he had never dreamt during this bizarre new normal.

‘Start from scratch’ Escobal ventures into an unfamiliar and new world, in hopes that educating in it would help him accomplish his mechanical engineering desire and eventually to change his life, and a scholarship from DOST would secure his spot in this university. “Expect ko na mag-aaral ako sa isang state univ, [university]. Noong nalaman kong nakapasok ako sa TUP, nakaradam ako ng kagaanan sa loob,” Shem said when asked if he anticipated schooling here. He, however, shall start from the scratch, as most of his high school classmates and friends have taken new roads in different institutions, and only a handful of his circle decided to try their luck in TUP. Nonetheless, the freshman is still able to create new friends in the span of what many students will say, an exhausting year to make one. Thanks to the group activities and their common interests, he was able to find ease when academic problems occurred, and at the same time extending his socialization outside his home province of Cavite.

‘I’ve never met my classmates’ “Mga more or less siguro 20 yung bago kong nakilala ngayon, Noong una mahihiya ka silang kausapin, pero kailangan para sa mga activities, hanggang sa maging close kayo.” In his own words, the mechanical engineering aspirant is done seeing only his classmates’ profile picture in Microsoft Teams. He is indeed eager to hear the voices he only listened in his earphones and meet his newly found buddies that share the same visions with him personally once the government will allow face-to-face classes in the next academic year. “Mayroon akong naka-grupo sa oral presentation ng research namin, tapos leader pa ako. Madalas kami nagkakatuwaan at misan nagbibiruan na manglilibre kapag f2f na. Tapos mayroon din akong nakikilala na naglalaro rin ng sport ko [chess] kaya gusto ko lang labanan,” Escobal said.

Sparking contrasts “Minsan habang nag-aattendance yung prof ko nawala bigla yung net at tumakbo ako nang mabilis sa labas para magpa-data. Mayroon pa na habang nageexam ulet ako, biglang namatay yung ginagagmit ko na computer sa bahay dahil medyo luma na rin yung computer at hindi kinakaya minsan ang pagpo-process ng MS TEAMS.” Being admitted to a celebrated college is a huge achievement but staying in it is a lot different story. Shem revealed that he had limited resources at the first part of the distance classes, not to mention his losing excitement in studying that he once committed. His burning desire that he had relied to capture the coveted DOST scholarship is now on the brink of dousing, but when things go low, he always remembers all of his exhausting days and sleepless nights just to get in this place. Thankfully, it is only at the beginning, his hard-earned stipend lifts his E-Learning, that he was able to buy a brand new laptop that helps him all throughout this set-up. But, when asked if he performs well on online rather than traditional: “Sa tingin ko ay hindi,” he said without hesitation. “Madalas ko kasing kinikilala muna nang mas maayos ang aking mga kaklase at professors para magkaroon ako ng confidence sa pag-paparticipate sa klase,” he explained.

Bright future For Shem, he is positive that normalcy is in sight, thanks to the start of the country’s vaccination programs. As he awaits the time that he and his newfound friends and classmates will finally enter the gates of TUP, he now made his final impression about this unimaginable mode of learning: “Mayroon kasing mga bagay na mas madaling ituro ‘pag personal at mayroon namang sa online.” he concluded.a It is indeed step number one for him, to study in a college that is known for producing the top mechanical engineers in the country hoping that his own name will soon add to that prestige distinction. Shem will continue to thrive not only for himself, but also for the people who continue to support his longtime dream. Regardless of the set-up, he will still find ways to pursue his ambitions in life and for doing what he loves, because he knows that not everyone has the privilege to get a scholarship and to study in a state university like him. That’s why even if he lost interest a hundred or million times, he will just simply backpedal, retrace his track, and recall all the obstacles he had passed just to be in this position, to turn all of his fantasies into realities.

Written by Kylene R. Aguinaldo & Edlee Jane M. Agagas Artwork by Alyanna F. Pornete

s one color is free to roam, so is the mixture of colors. Because different colors have different places, each respectfully calls for a safe place.

The members of the pride community often find their everyday lives being tarnished by physical and verbal abuse, discrimination, and even sexual assault. LGBTQ+ youths, in particular, experience difficulties with their families due to the stigma associated with their gender orientation. This is indeed customary in patriarchal families. Such more, they as well encounter discrimination and bullying in schools and their escape areas. In these views, mistreatment against the LGBTQ+ community is deeply rooted in homophobic settings. This could take many forms including unfavorable attitudes and views towards bisexual, lesbian, and homosexual persons, as well as prejudice against them which could lead to serious physical and mental health issues. Somehow, the reason is widespread misinformation and could be rooted in conservative religious beliefs.

Pride Month In the second-year celebration of Pride Month of June 2021 into the COVID-19 pandemic, different challenges and circumstances have been faced by the LGBTQ+ people. The Philippines societal context has shown public sexual harassment, discrimination, violence, and human rights violations towards LGBTQ+ recently. The case of Ebeng Mayor, a trans man, was rape with homicide and robbery by three men in Quezon City. In private spaces, they are even cunningly targeted by police authorities over extortion offenses. In schools, LGBTQ+ youths are subjected to bullying and harassment, as well in online learning that adversely affects their psychosocial development. However, the LGBTQ+ Community and the Commission on Human Rights emphasized the need to enact the SOGIE Bill as it will crackdown on the abuse over LGBTQ+ and promote safe spaces therein. Being born in a conservative country where gender only exists as binary, a person believes that having long hair is only for women and having hair shaved is only for men. Pink is feminine and blue is masculine. Skirts are for girls and shorts are for boys. When a man is gentle, he is mocked as gay; when a woman is aggressive, she is ridiculed as a lesbian. For the longest time, this society has been in denial about genderqueer. Although in recent years, Filipinos began recognizing the non-binary gender conception. However, despite the progress in gender awareness and acceptance in the country, the fact cannot be denied that up to this day, many members of the LGBTQ+ community still suffer from discrimination especially in civic spaces.

persecuted, in every documented culture. However, the LGBTQ+ community and individuals remain targets for hate violence and backlash throughout the world. The hard work of the LGBTQ+ community, activists, and allies made it possible to reach this present era through their fight for social movements. In the Philippines, the Committee of Women and Gender Equality introduced an act prohibiting discrimination on Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity or Expression (SOGIE). This bill enacts the rights of every person regardless of sex, age, class, status, ethnicity, and so forth to be free from any form of discrimination. This addresses for the States in exerting effort from all forms of discrimination, marginalization, violence on sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, women and child rights, and economic, political, social, and cultural stand. Meanwhile, a lot of people presume that the bill is a kind of special treatment. They are unaware and uninformed of the discrimination which LGBTQ+ individuals experience every single day. In reality, not having an encounter with such injustices or inequities doesn’t mean it’s a nonentity. “Coming out is easier when you’re a college graduate, with stable work and earns money. Everybody respects you and your decision. But when you’re nothing but a high school student, people see you as a failure.” Angelo, 15, says on Facebook. In some places across the State, some stories would make a person perceive that ‘keeping the rainbow flag folded’ is much safer for young LGBTQ+ individuals than the importance of being open. As stated by Riley, a youth “I was told by a relative that this was just a phase because I am only seventeen and that I will get over it when I get older.” I also remember her saying I should surround myself with straight people so I would get this fixed like it’s a dysfunction, and that she would pray for my ‘healing’.” Sheena, who goes by the name Paul, explained over email how coming out of the closet at an early age was both easy and hard. “I had to be brave. I would hear terrible things every day. I was even disowned by my own family. But it was also liberating at the same time because nothing was holding me back anymore. It wasn't prolonged agony.” His voice conveys a message of hope, but he highlights that this hope is set against a shadow of hopelessness.

The Fight for Pride Rights

Gretchen Diez made worldwide headlines after she was denied access to a mall's female restroom because she is transgender. This issue about the denial of access to public facilities for transgenders sparked debates online. “Just bring a chamber pot with you next time.” Shara, a transwoman, joked when she was asked about her stand regarding the dilemma. “So there would be no trouble.”

For so long even most historians agree that there is evidence of homosexual activity and same-sex love, whether such relationships were accepted or

These stories somehow lead the LGBTQ+ community to raise the urge in passing the bill to fight the undermining condemnation over LGBTQ+ individuals.

The whole situation was in light of local anti-discrimination ordinances which only protect 18 percent of the population. The RA 11313 also remains insufficient in protecting the community from genderbased violence. Law enforcers have been reported to mock LGBTQ+ complainants, forcing them to abandon legal action or pursue other legal remedies. These occurrences indicate the real stigma circulating throughout the country and yet are bound by the conformity of standardization.

Forgotten Cases In some places, there lies a long cry for justice for some LGBTQ+ murder victims. The presidential pardon granted to Lance Cpl. Joseph Scott Pemberton, who choked and pushed Jennifer Laude’s head into a toilet bowl and drowned in 2014, in September 2020 sparked terror online. Pemberton, who was 19 at that time, killed Laude in a motel room in Olongapo City after discovering that she was a trans woman. He was sentenced to six to twelve years of imprisonment but was released early ‘through Good Conduct Time Allowance’ after more than five years of conviction. Madonna “Donna” Niera, also a trans woman, was also found dead in a river near her home in Caloocan City on September 28, 2020, and yet her case did not get in the national news. Ebeng Mayor, a trans man, was brutally murdered and found dead in Quezon City on May 20, 2021, three days after he went missing. Another trans woman, Jessa Remiendo, was found dead on the shore of Patar Beach in Bolinao, Pangasinan with her neck almost cut through and her eyes almost clawed out on September 17, 2019. All of these are just some of the horrific murder cases of LGBTQ+ individuals in the country. “It’s terrifying. I would never know what could happen to me anytime. These people were killed due to their gender orientation. But what scares me more is seeing some people in the comments section saying that the victim must have harassed the suspect and that they must have been killed for defense.” Maggie, 24, says on Facebook.

Invading Public and Private Spaces In some areas in the Philippines, violence against LGBTQ+ is still pervasive. The authorities are usually the main form of SOGI discrimination in public and private places. There have been police raids on LGBTQ+ venues that occur regularly and without warrants—invading their spaces. During these raids, police illegally detain, verbally abuse, and extort money from clients. Police also frequently charge LGBTQ+ individuals which is a broadly worded public morality law discriminatorily applied against the LGBTQ+ community [9].

THE POWER OF SOCIAL MEDIA:

CANCEL CULTURE AND ITS TOXICITY Written by Elianna Ong V. Abrantes Collage by Alyanna F. Pornete

Social Media has given us the platform to engage with people online. A space where we can post our ‘ulam of the day’, tweet your favorite lyrics, share funny and relatable memes— anything that helps us navigate and express ourselves. It has provided a sense of comfort and source of entertainment especially in these trying times. With social media having the power to provide all these, it has also become a space for everyone to voice out their opinion and comments on certain issues with a goal to make healthy discussions that could benefit both ends. But, it could also turn the other way round.

What is Cancel culture? Cancel culture is the practice or tendency of engaging in mass canceling as a way of expressing disapproval and exerting social pressure (Merriam-Webster,2016). It refers to the collective outcries of the public for someone, especially public figures after they have done or said something considered objectionable or offensive. With social media being the main avenue for cancel-culture, it can be used to utilize these platforms to engage in proper discourse regarding certain issues and to amplify our collective opinions on different matters. ‘Cancel culture’ is just as problematic as it sounds. ‘You’re cancelledt. Periodt!’ — this social media slang just embodies, “That's it. End of conversation.” This culture is quite a phenomenon in almost every social media application, most particularly in Facebook, Twitter, and Reddit where most of the heavy discussions happen. The victims of this culture saw the end of their careers, took job opportunities, and the worst case scenario is it being a reason for anyone to take their lives. If someone is a pedophile, a sexual abuser, of course cancel them and hold them liable. But cancelling someone over petty reasons is just horrible. Instead of dismissing them, why not just call them out for the sole intention of correcting the untruth?

Reform ‘cancel’ to ‘call-out’ Given the platform to engage, this opens an opportunity to create spaces that are inclusive regarding differences instead of shutting them down. It is important to know the difference between the two. Promoting cancel culture does not provide the wrongdoer an opportunity to redeem themselves and grow outside of their mistakes. It dismisses the opportunity to discuss and communicate properly and could also induce ‘anxiety’ from making an opinion due to the fear of making a mistake and being bullied for it. On the other hand, call-out culture is pointing out a mistake in order for it to be corrected. Just recently an actress, Maine Mendoza almost got ‘cancelled’ for a tweet she made years ago. It has become like a witch hunt— people dig into your past as if character development isn’t possible and be scrutinized for it. Famous people are most likely to be ‘cancelled’, as they have fans and audiences to monitor them. As well as content creators as they have a responsibility to maximize their platform to educate their audiences. Some social media personalities even take advantage of this toxic culture to gain attention as they were able to convert hate to fame; Buknoy Glamour and Jam Magno, as a prime example. That sometimes the best way to cancel someone is to let them be irrelevant.

Call-out Culture ‘Aim to educate, not hate’ Social Media can be maximized to be a ground for self-improvement. Be open for a healthy discussion that is based on evidence and reliable information and learn from one another. Some just like to ride the train of hate and throw blatant accusations not knowing the full story behind it. Innocent people can be a victim of it causing the fall of someone’s career, taint reputations, work opportunities, and even ruin lives. Cancelling someone isn’t always the end-game. We all have done foolish things and could learn from it because a single mistake doesn’t define a person. Hold people accountable even without making them miserable for a matter they are not educated about. Educate not in a condescending way, and be open for criticism. The world is already in the midst of chaos to let untruths be uncorrected. We can learn from one another if we listen to those who actually take time and patience to educate us. It has been a difficult time for everyone. Let us have an open palm that extends themselves more generously to the people that need them [10].

FAKE NEWS:

The Footprint of Digital Plague Written by Charlene Gail B. De Asis & Gilven John Ryan L. Sidoro Illustration by Mark John R. Gaboy

we always encountered them when browsing any online platform. It exists everywhere like a disease unstoppable from spreading. It is no longer limited to a tattle in the street. Satirical work, clickbait headlines, unintentional news, and news that is purposely fake have almost become a daily news routine, to a point it was hard to distinguish which one is true and not. For example, upon the announcement of lockdown, panic quickly followed. It was then that articles and theories of the presumable origin of COVID-19, coming from dubious resources circulated the mainstreams of social media. Most of it denotes China's exotic delicacy, bat soup, as the cause of the outbreak. Even though the World Health Organization (WHO) debunks these kinds of statements, the unverified articles were already out in public consumption, so it found a way to enter the minds of the readers and exploit their lack of knowledge about the COVID-19. Eradicating falsified news is a tough job to do, but knowing how to distinguish and taking the time to factcheck the information gathered on the internet could help prevent it spreading like a wildfire. Once shared, it is free and very accessible to everyone, so in return it endangers and manipulates the people that don't have access to quality journalism or lack the means to conduct independent search to what they have read.

Scholarly authors reiterated that the ideology of the term fake news has a long-standing record even centuries ago, tracing it back from ancient Rome. As they say “it is as old as hills” and is by no means a new phenomenon. It is just that people back then had no exact words to call the falsified news. It also comes with many definitions depending on the context and situation, but their common denominator is—altering information leading to misperception and distrust of truth. It is though more popularized during the 2016 U.S presidential campaign of Donald Trump, which induced threats to the democratic goal of a well-informed electorate. ‘‘Fake news’’ has also been labeled for magnifying propaganda and ‘‘hate speech’’ and even violence. Since the advent of the 21st Century, how people attain news and information has gradually changed using the internet. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or YouTube render a premise for creating and proliferation of fake news. These technological advances have generated a lush environment for it to propagate rapidly. The supposed to be an escape and extension of our knowledge becomes a source of hate and toxicity as it infiltrates the digital world. In the Philippines, we are no strangers to these words as

And as readers, these ‘ABCD’ can be a guide to help us distinguish fact from fake news. 1. Assess the article- Look for reliable citations, because fake news tends to have an anonymous or fabricated source. 2. Be skeptical- Always be in doubt. If the headline is too suspicious, read the whole article before believing and sharing it to other people. 3 Check sources- Check the domain of the website is verified. Most URL's of fake news ends with ".com.co" or ".lo" to pretend like legitimate sites. It is better to subscribe to trustworthy, well-known, and established news outlets for better access to reliable information. 4. Double-check facts- If an unfamiliar source published an article and cited facts, it's better to look for other media outlets which will corroborate what you read. If you can't find any, it may be fake news. We are at the age of technology where this generation is too exposed to the digital world. Indeed it makes our life easier, but it also brings its consequences. We saw and experienced the incremental damage it can cause first-hand; so aiming to create a safe digital space—a fake news-free online community not only for us but also for the future generation. After all, pressing the report button isn't all that difficult, is it? [11]

The Society’s Disease:

tHe culture of Victim Blaming Written by Mary Josephine DC. Bajada Collage by Alyanna F. Pornete Based on a website called “Don’t Blame the Victim,” the culture of victim blaming comes from the ideologies from the past that have been created to dictate what women should and should not wear. With those rules being said, a large possibility of how the victims are credited these days have been tremendous and would affect court trials, but why should someone dictate women’s clothes and their actions in the first place?

causes psychological effects that disables a sufferer to speak about it due to the fear of being ridiculed. “You got raped because you’re not wearing proper clothes!” “You went out late at night, of course they would do it. It looks like you are asking for it after all.” These are some precedents that majority of individuals would say when a sufferer such as the Steubenville Case in Steubenville, Ohio. According to the reports from the recent website, “Don’t Blame the Victim,” a woman went to a party and got so drunk that she became unconscious with two men and was sexually harassed later on. Most of the netizens on Twitter whipped the person with lashes of hate and curses, rang their laughs in the other person’s ear, and would leave the attacker unscathed the irony of the ordeal.

Ideal societies have been created from varied factors of the past; stories from histories, beliefs and values, and even similar actions that men conduct towards each other. These are believed to create a faction that would help its members to reach the common good and the benefit for all and because of that, these elements have been passed down from generation to generation, thus serving as the foundation of traditions which contradicted its main goal with a lot of interesting and controversial actions that still lingers nowadays... With the infamous victim blaming sitting on top spot.

Another event that happened was on January 1, 2021 in the Philippines, the case of Christine Angelica Dacera, a flight attendant who went on a New year’s Eve party and died because of the reported ruptured aneurysm. However, things had a huge plot twist after the Makati City Police announced that traces of sperm were found. After this, Filipinos released a divided opinion regarding her situation, some said, “Bakit rin naman siya nakisali sa party kung alam naman niyang siya lang ang nag-iisang babae? Sana natulog na lang siya sa kwarto niya!" While celebrities such as Bianca Gonzales defended her by tweeting, “Rape happens because of rapists, not because anyone 'asked for it.”

Beatriz Torre, an assistant professor from University of the Philippines Diliman Department of Psychology said that, “Victim-blaming, happens when survivors are unjustly blamed and often held responsible for the crime committed against them, [ it ] induces feelings of powerlessness, shame, and guilt,” after explaining that it

Since laws of the Philippines are deeply inclined from its culture especially when it comes to the idea of being conservative, even the prosecutors of rape trials who are supposed to question the predator would question the survivor’s clothing and other activities. “Unfortunately, it is still common with prosecutors, even [women] prosecutors, to have that victim-blaming mindset,” said by a lawyer named Estella Elamparo in an interview with Inquirer.net. Indelible memories, unexpected twists of events, and a mark embedded for a lifetime. Those are just some ‘souvenirs’ that a person who experienced tremendous things had collected. If the idea of a Philippine society would be modest and would require females to “suck it up” because of their clothing and night time activities then it would not be ideal for the side of femininity. In times like this where technology and social media is widely used, women are starting to call-out their sex offenders depite the backlash that they might receive, the viewers on the other hand, should be ready to read the facts given in these situations and should be aware to these timely issues. If the future generations continue the culture of victimblaming, then it will never be an ideal society and will never be one. As long as there are sufferers who are muted and laughed at, as long as the attackers are not sought out, and as long as victim blaming is not solved, the “ideal society” will still remain as a bedridden myth that harbors the said ordeal as its disease [12].

Shedding Light on the Grimness of Marcosian Martial Law

Written by Fercie M. Dale Bayron

The Philippines has undergone various dark days in various eras, but one that forever betrayed the country was the Martial Law. It was a long and complex period that Filipinos never wanted to return to. Lives were sacrificed to gain back the freedom that the citizens thought was theirs before the reigning Ferdinand Marcos back at the time snatched it. This part of the country’s history has been part of the books, the news, and the songs, but what exactly happened almost five decades ago? During The Dark Days Filipino families would be at home by the time Ferdinand Marcos declared Martial Law on September 21, 1972. Perhaps, not everyone back then knew what was about to unfold when Marcos issued this proclamation because of alleged communist and terrorist threats. Apparently, more rebellious attacks had risen that he needed to control the civilians with an almost lawless martial law, ironically. Unfortunately, Filipinos initially saw the declaration as a good thing, but when things got out of hand, they must have wished to condemn it in the first place. The “New Society” that Marcos wanted to introduce to the Filipinos was composed of a full military control disguised as a protection to the welfare of the citizens. Marcos insisted that it was the only option left to defend the Constitution and the Filipinos, but in reality, there were other ways to cease the escalating number of casualties between the military and communists. Despite the urban crime rates and prevention of more communist attacks, many people were left in the dark during the dark days where people thought that Marcos was saving the Philippines from corruption. The country was doing great in numbers when it came to the gross national product, a few farmers experienced the benefit of land reforms, but the other parts of the economy were not doing really well and the human rights violations increased. Marcos had to borrow from international banks to cover up the failing economy while corruption had started to surge once again. Marcos modified major processes and law in the system for his convenience such as appointing himself as the President and Prime Minister and more things that did not help the country to develop. During the election for the National Assembly, Marcos won a new six-year term which extended the agony of more Filipinos. Benigno Aquino Jr. was exiled in the United States after being detained along with more than 30 000 civilians. They were students, activists, employees, journalists, politicians, and innocents. The whole country was in chaos and there was no unbiased media coverage to expose the torturing moments during the martial law. Filipinos were silenced while the Marcos administration continued on killing the people’s hopes and voices. The Fall of Dictatorship With the economic and political state of the Philippines, more people were working to get rid of Marco’s plans and his administration. Filipinos were out in the streets conducting prayer rallies and protests which exposed the messed up administration. Despite Marcos’ wins on two elections to extend his term, the Filipinos did not let him have another chance to prolong the citizens’ sufferings. When Aquino was murdered from his three-year exile from the U.S., it awakened something within. It was the trigger that the Filipinos were waiting for before they spoke out their desire to remove Marcos from his

post. And just like how he would manage the uprisings, he conducted a snap election in hopes to extend presidency, but the people were not blind anymore. They fought and gained back the freedom they hoped for when Corazon Aquino, Ninoy Aquino’s widow, won the elections and ended Marcos 21 years of dictatorship in 1986. Collectively, reformists, revolutionists, and religious groups initiated the fall of the dictator. What The Books Don’t Tell Us The books tell us how much the country’s economy was in good shape because we're the rising tiger of Asia during the Marcos regime. Most students probably remember that their teachers taught them that the dollar-peso conversion at that time was 1:1, which was an indicator of a great economy, or that Imelda Marcos initiated the establishment of various infrastructures that promoted the Philippine’s cultural heritage. But have the students heard of how much ill-gotten wealth the Marcos family has? Or how lavish their family lifestyle is? Or how many lives were taken and compromised during Martial Law? Or just how bad the human rights violations were back in those days? There were almost 2,500 killed, more than 700 missing, 70,000 detained and arrested, and 35,000 tortured and raped during the time of martial law. It is absurd to see how there are still people invalidating the evident scars of the past. How can people move on from the scarred past of women who were raped, innocent civilians who were electrocuted, beaten, suffocated, and burned, media who were silenced, and Filipinos who suffered trauma? The total of more than 3,000 deaths and disappearances is a bone-chilling number, even more chilling than the alleged ill-gotten wealth the Marcoses have, which is by the way, almost two billion pesos. Funny how many people want to invalidate the present generation’s opinions and thoughts on the grimness of Marcosian Martial Law because they were never part of the dark days. But it is even funnier to see people who existed at that time be manipulated by the historical revision that the textbooks taught us. No movies, books, songs, or documentaries can fully justify the damage martial law has left to the Filipinos, whether they were direct victims or not. Marcos was not a patriot for declaring martial law to allegedly protect his people from communist attacks. It was a disguised attempt to fully take over the people’s rights and command them without the law. The family distracted the general public with violence to steal billions of money from the people. So why would other people dictate us to forget what happened almost 50 years ago when the scars of the past had damaged the people back then and even now? Why would Filipinos forget the people who are supposed to be here now if it weren’t for the injustice. There are zero reasons to forget the past and forgive Marcoses. Not when the history has been revised. Not when many people still think that the damage should be downplayed. Shedding Light Revising a word or two in history can gravely impact how the future generation perceives and forms values. You may be wondering: why should you even bother reading and understanding the Marcosian Martial Law, when you did not even experience it? Because the younger generation can be more loud and visible with their opposition to corruption, immorality, and manipulation that occurred in the past. Only then, the present can write down their own history from the legacy that the past has passed down [13].

What is inside the COVID-19 Vaccine? Written by Jerry Ponce M. Mandap Illustration by Rommel S. Orencio

With the global pandemic caused by the Covid-19 virus, it already feels like a decade when we last went out without worrying whether we bought our face mask and face shield, when our alcohol goes straight to our stomachs and not being sprayed into our hands so often, when we used to kiss and hug each other anytime instead of distancing oneself to other people worrying to catch the virus. The Covid-19 virus uses its crown-like spikes hence, its name, to infiltrate our body, then deceives our cell receptors that it is not an enemy. By the time the immune system is notified that it was an enemy, it is too late as the virus already multiplied to thousands and millions of copies of its own. Cunning it may seem, there is one way to defeat the virus— by using its own weapon to itself.

What is a vaccine? Vaccines train our immune system of how bacteria and viruses look so that by the time the virus enters our body, our immune system already knows it is an enemy and responds very fast before it has the time to replicate. Vaccines are usually made of dead or weak viruses, making it easier for our immune system to deal with them the first time they meet them. In simple terms, it is like giving a very easy math question when it is the first time to encounter the equation so that when the exam comes, we can use that as a foundation to solve the exam question with ease. Making vaccines is a very long and meticulous process that may typically take up to 10 years or more. There are a lot of steps before the vaccine gets released to the public to ensure that it is safe and effective. But since we are in a global emergency because of the pandemic, scientists tried to speed up some of the steps by doing them simultaneously.

What is inside the vaccine? Vaccines are usually made up of weakened or dead viruses just like the vaccines for polio and measles. With current technology, some vaccines now just contain a part of the virus. The latest COVID vaccines are just made up of the spike protein of the coronavirus. But it turns out that copying the 3-dimensional shape of the spike of the virus without it being attached to its body is pretty tricky. The scientists modified the DNA to mutate the Amino Acid which made up the spike protein of the virus to make it similar to the living coronavirus.

How does the vaccine work? According to the Department of Health (DOH) Pfizer and Moderna are using this technology. But instead of making the spike proteins in the labs and big machines, the genetic instructions to make the spike protein is in the vaccine shot and is stored in a molecule called mRNA. Once injected, your body then uses the instructions to make its own spike protein—making you a factory of your own spike protein. Not only can you protect yourself from the deadly COVID virus if you get vaccinated but also protect other people through herd immunity— when the majority of the population is vaccinated, it also protects the unvaccinated individuals since contact from a carrier to a possible victim is close to none. Unfortunately, even if you are vaccinated, you are not 100% safe from the virus. You can still catch the virus and be sick, the difference is that non-vaccinated individuals are more prone to deadly and serious cases.

The Perfect Enemy The first case of the virus was recorded way back in December 2019, when most of us are just living our lives, socializing, and partying with friends. This is the reason why these viruses that cause global pandemic are our perfect enemy; they take advantage of our weakness— our social nature. We, humans, are sociable species. We got to be at the top of the food chain because of our intelligence and our ability to form groups and communicate. If this global pandemic continues, the same chain that connects us may also leave us vulnerable [14].

“If this global pandemic continues, the same chain that connects us may also leave us vulnerable.”

Trends Amid Pandemic Written by Marizen Ira Chua Collage by Alyanna F. Pornete With the upheaval and uncertainty caused by the global pandemic, Filipinos still find light of relief. Online. There is no doubt that the pandemic restrictions, lockdowns and quarantine forced the people to rely on technology more than ever. Social media, online selling, shopping as well as distance learning, have become the “new normal” as we strive to keep normalcy in our lives amid the challenges we face. This only shows that we are no longer limited by brick-and-mortar spaces instead pushed to transition into online and social media platforms, taking advantage of the networks of people and the speed of technology. Here are some Trends that are on the rise and here to stay this 2021:

E-commerce Websites As more and more people find convenience in online shopping, entrepreneurs have embraced this digital phenomenon by transforming their businesses through online transactions. And the forefront of online shopping platforms are e-commerce websites such as Lazada and Shopee. It made this kind of marketplace an obvious necessity. For vendors/vendees, it opened opportunities to extend the presence of their products online. Most people nowadays have these e-commerce applications downloaded and have delivery guys lining up outside their houses because of the orders they bought. It only proved that online businesses have become more profitable and viable. According to Bernadette Nacario, Google Philippines Country Director, “the booming e-commerce industry is expected to boost the Philippine internet economy, through its estimated growth of $28 billion by the year 2025. Yet its convenience also has a negative impact, it is undeniable that no matter how well the photo or video was presented online the lack of vital experience and personal touch is always present since you cannot solely touch or feel the product unless you have ordered and received it. These often result in consumers distrust which is why most of the people check the feedback and comments before ordering the product.

Digital and Contactless Payments The continuous effect of the COVID-19 made contactless digital payments to be the recommended payment method. It can be done through the most known digital wallets like Gcash and PayMaya which enable people to make online purchases and payments of goods, services and even utility payments, hassle-free, faster and convenient. In the statement issued by Malacañang, they expressed confidence in making our country a cashless society. In a survey conducted by MoneyTransfers.com, the Philippines ranked sixth on the list of nations that will support a completely cashless society. Not only that, digital wallets like PayMaya provide rebate and cash incentives for every person you encourage to download the application. So perhaps, if a friend of yours messaged you to download this digital wallet app, one reason would be to help him/her in earning points/incentives. However, as people use online transactions, the threat of their personal information being leaked can give access to unauthorized persons to have access on their bank accounts.Which can lead to several financial and security issues.

Work from Home The pandemic escalated companies, schools, employees and even millennials’ to work from home. In a lighter perspective, the WFH contributed in preventing the spread of viruses, and saves commute time and provides more flexibility. It creates a more comfortable atmosphere and radiates productivity. Many people have made the abrupt transition of working from home, which has caused workers to lack motivation while working and often experience burnout. The bigger challenge also lies in the difficulty of having a clear line on separating working hours to doing household tasks. It has been more than a year ever since the pandemic, the trends of 2020 seems to have mirrored the trends of 2021 but the future still appears to be uncertain. We have no idea when or if our societies will be able to return to normalcy – or what kind of scars the pandemic will leave. But one thing’s clear. Our resiliency. We must note, however, that the COVID-19 pandemic has constrained economic and day to day activities but never our resilience [15].

zztv

Five Tips of Encouragement:

A Helping Hand towards Mental Health Awareness Written by Ashley Amistoso Illustration by Mark John R. Gaboy

You are not alone. You will never be alone. Peace should begin with each other as individuals. In this manner, positivity can start within you. Bringing hope to someone who is struggling in their life is one of the most effective ways for you to lend a helpful hand. You can empower everyone and spread compassion, whether it may be with your next-door neighbor, friends, classmates, or even the people you treasure the most, your loved ones. It is important to be mindful of everyone's mental health, it is not something you can take for granted rather, but a thing you should value. According to PineRest Christian Mental Health Services, every year, mental disorders impact 19% of the adult population, 46% of teens, and 13% of children. A huge stigma is one of the main reasons why many of those who are affected don't seek treatment and instead choose to hide their own suffering. In showing support in raising awareness for mental health, here is the list of five Important Things to Know and how you can help those people you know that are struggling on their own. Here we go! Stay connected, my friend!

about Mental Health

The Power of Respect and Acceptance. Reject the old and wrong idea that someone suffering from mental illness is nothing but a burden. We need to start accepting each other's differences and learn to see the beauty in everyone's pain. You have the potential to play a significant role in someone's recovery. If you have a friend or a person who is battling on their own, show them that you genuinely care for them and that they matter as a person and should not be scared to seek help. Having friends who consider you as a valuable person rather than your condition can make a substantial difference for someone suffering from mental illness.

Remove the Lack of Understanding Empathy is one of the most powerful ways to raise mental health awareness. We must not allow our negative ideas to discourage someone's desire to seek assistance. Don't be a hindrance to someone's health. Instead of spreading negative views, we should widen our understanding, overcome stigma, and equip our minds with the wisdom of the relevance of every individual's mental health.

WATCH YOUR WORDS. Carefully watch your words, my friend. Always keep in mind that words have a huge influence and may have an impact upon others. Be sensitive, if you know someone who is going through a difficult time, be the first to initiate care and understanding. In this way, you can absolutely be the source of someone's smile.

Advocate within your circle of Influence. The awareness can start in you. Show your support by sending out an inspiring message or by using social media as a platform to reach out to more people and advocate for the value of mental health. Be the key on your own, let the world hear your thoughts. In that way, you could use your position to stand for those victims of stigma and fight for their rights.

Know yourself. The best help that we can receive is from ourselves. Do not be afraid to show off and ask for help whenever you feel that you’re not worthy as a person. Instill in your mind that you are stronger than the illness, depression, and anxiety that you have. Do not let that brain of yours defeat you. Instead, use your brain to unleash your true purpose. We are all fair and we are all worthy in the eyes of our loving God.

Our brain is one of the important organs in our body and simply like everything else in our body, it can be harmed like everything else. There is no harm in showing respect, appreciation, and acceptance. Put an end to the STIGMA. Be the person who promotes AWARENESS rather than the one who spreads negativity. We can work together in turning the tables by showing our support to those people who struggle with their mental health. Let us consistently remember that our minds should be the home of comfort and love, and may this notion encourage more individuals to have the confidence to speak up for themselves. Keep in mind that even when only one person understands someone, the world can be a safe place to acknowledge people and their differences. This is not just a battle of ONE, but a fight for EVERYONE. Mental Health COUNTS because our life MATTERS [16].

" You are not alone. You will never be alone." 38

Written by John Peter T. Magbuhos Photograph by Alvin John B. Medalla

Big speakers, loud microphones, bold placards, repeating chants, and enraged faces. These are just some of the common things that you might have encountered in the street waged by activists to perform what some people regard as a mere inconvenience to traffic and economy: protest. The loudest voices that shout for essential rights, for some, are taken as just a noise, a form of littering, and a waste of time. But how do you think protesting can really impact us? Where can it lead us? For many years, it is indisputable that we already have a tome of stories of unfair, abusive, and hideous political and societal systems. An epitome of these, is the record of a faction that existed in the history of France that eventually marked the event that woke up the mind of the many: the Third Estate or the common people in the French Revolution.

Tune of the French Revolution in 1789 Year 1789 was a miserable year for France. The country was at its economic downfall. There was a call of the Estate General wherein all estates- first, second and third- are gathered to discuss a solution for the country’s poor situation. The demand of the Third Estate for a change in tax payment system that removes the exemption of the silk-stocking First and Second Estates and for a right to vote of all the estate representatives brought a strong tension that no one knew would light up a remarkable upheaval. In the old voting system of France, unfairness is clear like a glass. Only one representative from each estate can vote on any decision to make so when the proposed law is found by the upper estates to be unfavorable to their sides, they have the chance to easily outvote the Third Estate. And this is what the common people wanted to change. But King Louis XVI, the highest of the aristocrats, would never let them. But then a glass of unfairness is breakable. Ordinary people as the Third Estate may seem but they have the strongest voice and core prepared for battle. They created the National Assembly, their own constitution, and took an Oath at the Tennis Court to topple the status quo. War was raised. The responsible were punished. The torch has been set aflame not just to give light but also to burn the sickening system. And the primitive political and societal landscape of France, from then, started to change according to what the people have long been craving for – equity, and abolition of feudalism and monarchy. But what happened to France is just one of the thousands of stories we have. Our current world still has multiple narratives of people oppressed. And of course, of people in protest.

Resonance of the Hongkong Protest in 2019 Protesting serves as a voice and an inspiration for the muted that leads them to find their own voices. It’s a powerful tool, as well, to wake the sleeping minds of many people and show them the truth. In Hongkong, people use streets not just for walks but this is an essential stage for them to be heard. In June 2019, Hong Kongers took to the streets to demand the withdrawal of an extradition bill that is believed to give more power to China over Hongkong. The bill allows criminal suspects and dissidents to be extradited to mainland China which has unfair trial and violent treatment. Also, it is believed to be used as a weapon to target Hongkong activists and journalists and expose them to regular and harsh punishment pervasive in the mainland. June 16, 2019, peacefully, almost 2 million Hong Kongers seized the streets. They marched with their sound message. It is an ocean wave, however solid, wanting to reach the island of the supposed protector. But all they got was a boundary stopping them: the police responded with batons, tear gas, pepper sprays, rubber bullets, and water cannons. Since 1997, Hongkong has been an autonomous country until the law states its expiry in 2047. But in recent years, it has already come under attack. President Xi Jinping had even made a threat in 2017 that any movement that would put China’s national security in peril would face harsh punishment. And this is very alarming. The life of the present and future people of Hongkong is in a critical state. Without throwing a fight, allowing the tyrant to take their enjoyed independence easily, imagine how many people would have a miserable life under the tyranny and horrendous system of China. That is why today the call persists and vibrates up to the bed of the seemingly undisturbed. Hong Kongers demand five not one less after the government withdrew the extradition bill – to differentiate protests to riots; amnesty for arrested protesters; independent inquiry into alleged police brutality; and the enactment of complete universal suffrage. Not until these demands have met, the streets will keep the haunting trails of the suppressed people of Hongkong.

Rhythm of the World’s Protests Another protest emerged in 1995 in the US is the Million Man March raising the issue of lack of equal justice for Black and White men. There is also the March on Washington for Gay, Lesbian and Bi Equal Rights and Liberation in 1993 that demands legal protections and civil rights for the LGBTQ+ community and it ended up gaining international attention and an era of acceptance. Then the Women’s March 2017 in the US that empowers and advances pro-women policies.

Protesting has always been a way to achieve vital change in our society. In our history, we have the story of a gay disrespected in public. We have farmers, educators, health workers, not getting enough despite working with tears, sweat and blood. We have black people getting harmed for being black. We have women being raped and abused. And all these abuses and injustices remain in every corner of the world – silent and dangerous - if not by being boisterous, and assertive. If not by protesting.

The Philippines’ Melodic Outcries In the Philippines, we also have many movements that rocked society. We have The Revolution of the Illustrados in the 19th century, The First Quarter Storm in 1970, the well-known EDSA Revolution in 1986, Liwasang Bonifacio Rallies in 1980 to 1982, Luneta Anti-Pork Barrel Rally in 2013 and today, we still continue to have movements for the students, laborers, farmers, LGBTQ+, and women as well. Even in the time of pandemic, many Filipinos urge the government for concrete plans that could diminish the continuous rise of hunger and death toll in the country. We repeatedly sing our chorus of change despite the government’s deaf ears. And many have been cleared of ignorance. And it’s just a clear picture that for centuries, we have been so persistent and insistent in composing a better melody for the world. Over the years, we try to compose our beautiful lyrics of a better world where one has a sense of security whenever he or she goes outside; where basic human rights are given importance. Because as time passes by, we continue to have issues on these rights. It becomes even deeper. Even more threatening. We pursue stories of racism, of inequality and inequity, of injustice and corruption and more constricting systems. Would the protesters remain silent, would the world become better? Much has changed. But we cannot deny that we still have a long way to go. As the world persists to

narrate unwanted stories of injustices, the noises of the fighters in the streets will be the song of hope of the people [17].

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Suspects in rape-slay of trans man Ebeng Mayor arrested, charged — PNP. INQUIRER. Retrieved from https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1435439/ suspects-in-rape-slay-of-trans-man-ebeng-mayor-arrested-charged-pnp *Celebrating LGBT Pride Month 2020 A Bit Differently | Sustainable Development Goals - Resource Centre. (n.d.). SDG Resources. Retrieved from https://sdgresources. relx.com/articles-features/celebrating-lgbt-pride-month-2020-bit-differently *MatthewsPlace.com. (2020, July 29). Challenges the LGBTQ+ Community Face in the Philippines. Medium. Retrieved from https://medium.com/matthews-place/challenges-the-lgbtq-community-face-in-the-philippines-f455177eade4 *Philippines: 11 articles to understand why the SOGIE bill is important. (n.d.). Equal Eyes. Retrieved from https://equal-eyes.org/database/2020/12/8/philippines-11-articles-to-understand-why-the-sogie-bill-is-important *CNN-SOGIE Equality Bill Rally. Philippines. (n.d.). CNN Philippines. 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html?fbclid=IwAR2 *Debunking myths about the LGBTQ+ bathroom debate. (n.d.). CNN Philippines. Retrieved from https://cnnphilippines.com/life/culture/2019/8/19/lgbtq-bathroomdebate-myths-.html *“The end goal is for people to see us as full human beings”: A transgender round table discussion. (n.d.). CNN Philippines. Retrieved from https://cnnphilippines.com/ life/culture/2019/10/14/transgender-roundtable-discussion.html?fbclid *8 myths about asexuality. (n.d.). CNN Philippines. Retrieved from https://cnnphilippines.com/life/culture/2018/08/02/asexuality.html *What happens when your body is both male and female? (n.d.). CNN Philippines. Retrieved from https://cnnphilippines.com/life/culture/2019/6/21/intersex.html *What does it mean to be “gender non-conforming”?. (n.d.). CNN Philippines. Retrieved from https://cnnphilippines.com/life/culture/2017/10/10/gender-non-conforming.html [10] THE POWER OF SOCIAL MEDIA: CANCEL CULTURE AND ITS TOXICITY *Merriam Webster (2021, September 29). 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Cryo-EM structure of the 2019-nCoV spike in the prefusion conformation. Science 367, 1260–1263 (2020) doi: 10.1126/science.abb2507. Retrieved from https://doh.gov.ph/faqs/vaccines [15] TRENDS AMID PANDEMIC *Caringal-Go J, Mendiola T, Bertulfo D, Manaois J. (2021) Work-life balance crafting during COVID-19 exploring strategies of telecommuting employees in the Philippines. Community, Work & Family 0:0, pages 1-20. *Gita-Carlos. R (2021, March 9). PH ready for planned shift to ‘cashless’ society: Palace. Retrieved from https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1133093 Ledesma, J (2021, February 23) Mindful WHF: More productive, healthier. Retrieved from https://www.pna.gov.ph/opinion/pieces/403-whf-more-productive-healthier *Newsbytes.PH (2020, November 14). E-commerce drives growth of PH digital economy in 2020. 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