Philippine Collegian Issue 10

‘2012 nat’l budget deceptive, anti-dev’t —IBON’ — Page 3 Philippine Collegian Opisyal na lingguhang pahayagan ng mga mag-aaral ng Unibersidad ng Pilipinas - Diliman 23 Agosto 2011 Taon 89, Blg. 10

Terminal Cases Delfin Mercado

I

e ur at Fe

Artwork by RD Aliposa

s

Isang mahinahon na paghimay sa gulo sa likod ng Kulo Kultura Pahina 8

The semantics Higit pa sa ginto of regression ang matatagpuan Editoryal Pahina 2 sa Bundok Abo Lathalain Pahina 6

9

t was one of those few times when I was able to eat breakfast at home, together with my parents. It was an old and almost forgotten ritual, and I knew my parents won’t miss this opportunity to shower me with a tirade of questions.

“Were have you been these past days?”

“How come you only came home today? What’s up?”

“How’s the university?”

“When will you graduate?”

Their questions fell silent on my plateful of waffles, the same waffles my mother served me on the fateful day that I took the UPCAT seven years ago. It was like the same plateful of waffles and bacon that she served on my first day in the university six years ago.

It was a time when one need not wear IDs before entering any college, when there was no such thing as “bike lane” or Technohub, when the Toki route was a lot more predictable, when tuition was P300 per unit.

“Delfin, sooner or later you have to graduate and move on with your life, you know that,” my mother said.

“In time,” I said. But what I didn’t tell them was it’s not going to be in the near future. Sooner or later I need to find a course to shift to. No one gets a diploma as a non-degree student.

Whatever happened to me? When I entered UP, I wanted to detach myself from all ties that bound me to my past and create a different identity, far from the whiz and clumsy student I was back in high school.

I wanted to be different. I wanted to explore. I wanted to try it all. And so, in a span of four years, I hopped from course to course, hoping to find the course that fitted me best. But each time I shifted, I wanted something else, something more. Soon, I asked myself, what did I want – the course or the thrill of shifting to that course. At times, I feel it’s the latter.

“Maybe, you’re with that band again, or that weird club of yours?

Where were you the whole weekend?” my mother bellowed.

I joined dozens of organizations, taking some seriously and others, all for the sake of fun. I never lasted a month in any of these organizations. Again, all I wanted was the thrill.

And it comes as a surprise to me that after three months, I’m still writing for this paper. Why am I doing this? Is this still for the thrill of it?

The sound of the silverware tinkered loudly in the silence. My parents were waiting for a reply.

I stood up and left the table.

I remembered, I still needed to write a column. ●

2 • Kulê Editoryal

Martes 23 Agosto 2011

The semantics of regression Regressive policies are never described with words that betray their backwardness. Rather, they are often accompanied with words associated with noble ideas and progress.

Take for instance, how “free” is used to describe trade agreements.

Amid an economic meltdown in the West, we have been invited by the United States (US) to join another multilateral “free” trade agreement, the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).

Aiming to eliminate trade tariffs among its member countries by 2015, TPP will cover trade in various fields, including manufacturing, agriculture, intellectual property and even services.

To a third world country grappling with the dictates of the world market, the TPP seems like a great deal. Our concession to the TPP, it appears, will place us on an even footing in trade with developed countries like US and Singapore. US Ambassador Harry Thomas even sells the TPP with these so-called benefits: greater foreign direct investments (FDI), creation of jobs and poverty reduction.

Yet, years of operating under a neoliberal economy tells us otherwise.

Since the Philippines tied itself to the foreign investments, the output of manufacturing—the sector that produces real value for the economy— steadily decreased. In fact, studies show that the current share of the manufacturing industry in our gross domestic product is similar to its contribution five decades ago: only 23 percent.

Free trade agreements, in practice, have only benefitted industrialized nations. In the free trade setup, countries such as the US freely flood our markets with basic goods, and are given leeway to exploit our natural resources for their own economic gains. Greater amount of FDIs, moreover, indicate the government’s abdication of its responsibility of protecting its labor force. Enticing foreign investors often involve the depression of wages and contractualization, thereby increasing

QUOTED “We just like to remind you because you’ve been fooling [around]. Kala mo sira ulo namin lahat dito? Yung iba, pero hindi lahat.”

5.5 x 3.5 in

—Sen. Panfilo Lacson to Rowena del Rosario, Iggy Arroyo’s bookkeeper, during the senate hearing on anomalous vehicles sold to PNP, inquirer. net, August 22

“Parang siya yung Barbie doll that I could never have.”

Luigi Almuena the profits of transnational and multi-national companies. As a result, our economy is not only foreigndominated, it also enslaves the Filipino people.

Developing nations like the Philippines will always be at the losing end of free trade agreements for these pacts only serve to make the wealthy wealthier.

This dogma of wealth is sustained by the essence of free trade: liberalization and deregulation, or simply prohibiting government intervention in foreign economic ventures Thus, for us to join the TPP, charter “change” is needed, said Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile.

“Change,” a word loosely used by this administration for its progressive intonations, is nowadays read alongside constitutional amendments that will further open the country to foreign companies.

A truly nationalist administration,

Editoryal

however, should not even consider the prospect of changing the constitution for the TPP. Signing on the TPP requires the Philippine government to amend provisions in the 1987 Constitution that limit foreign ownership of land, corporation, among others to only 40 percent. The rest, the Constitution stipulates, must be owned by Filipino citizens. Enrile and other legislators who favor charter change have called this provision “restrictive,” whereas it is only logical for our Constitution to protect Filipino interests.

Removing these so-called restrictions from the Constitution is equivalent to selling off our national sovereignty. It is ironic then that politicians defend Philippine territory in the Spratlys dispute, but are willing to expand foreign ownership of our resources. Handing over economic control to foreigners tramples on our national sovereignty as much as letting Chinese ships roam our seas.

The advocates of free trade and

charter change are experts in implying equality where there is none and masking ill intent with the promise of progress. But we will not be fooled.

There have been previous bids to alter the constitution in order to further open the Philippine economy to foreign domination, but they never succeeded. The key to protecting our sovereignty and resources lies in our ability to discern which policies will drive our country further backward, and organizing a collective opposition against them. ●

Philippine Collegian www.philippinecollegian.org

Punong Patnugot Marjohara Tucay Kapatnugot Pauline Gidget R. Estrella Tagapamahalang Patnugot Dianne Marah E. Sayaman Pangunahing Patnugot Jayson D. Fajarda Patnugot Sa Lathalain Mila Anna Estrella S. Polinar Patnugot Sa Grapiks, Nicolo Renzo T. Villarete, Chris Martin T. Imperial Tagapamahala Ng Pinansiya Richard Jacob Dy Kawani Ruth Daniel Aliposa Pinansiya Amelyn J. DagaTagapamahala Sa Sirkulasyon Paul John Alix Sirkulasyon Gary Gabales, Amelito Jaena, Glenario Ommalin Mga Katuwang Na Kawani Trinidad Gabales, Gina Villas Pamuhatan Silid 401 Bulwagang Vinzonz, Unibersidad ng Pilipinas Diliman, Lungsod Quezon Telefax 981-8500 lokal 4522 Email kule1112@gmail.com Website philippinecollegian.org Kasapi Solidaridad: UP Systemwide Alliance of Student Publications and Writers Organizations, College Editors Guild of the Philippines

—Isha Dinio, Filipino fan of Paris Hilton, gmanews.tv, August 19

“We are living historic moments, moments that we haven’t witnessed since we were born, since we came out of our mothers’ wombs.”

—We’am Mohanna, Libyan activist on the end of Muammar Gadafi’s dictatorship, gmanews. tv, August 22

“Hindi po kami umabot sa batch na merong ‘return service obligation’ pero siyempre, dito pa rin po ako magtatrabaho.”

—Jomel Garcia Lapides, UP Manila alumnus and topnotcher in the 2011 nursing licensure examination, gmanews.tv, Aug20

3 • Kulê Balita

Martes 23 Agosto 2011

‘2012 nat’l budget deceptive, anti-dev’t’ -IBON Marjohara Tucay The P1.816 trillion proposed national budget for 2012 is “deceptive and antidevelopment,” with the government allotting large sums to finance projects which aim to increase private profits, implement “fake anti-poverty measures” and “anti-development plans,” according to independent think-tank IBON Foundation.

The proposed budget is 10.4 percent higher than the current P1.645 trillion national budget, and is characterized by a slightly lower allocation for debt servicing and higher funding for economic and social services.

For 2012, the budget for economic and social services increased by P76.9 billion and P54.3 billion respectively, while the allotment for interest payment decreased by P23.9 billion.

However, most of the increases in the allocation for agencies such as the Department of Social Work and Development will be spent to support the government’s centerpiece programs such as private-public

Qualifications for Chancellorship A nominee must possess the following qualifications: 1. Commitment to academic freedom and the values and ideals of the University 2.

Distinction in the nominee’s chosen field of expertise coupled with a generalist view and an appreciation of other disciplines 3.

Filipino citizen with a strong nationalist commitment 4.

Demonstrated observance of the principles of collegiality and the democratic process 5.

Unquestionable moral integrity 6. Academic leadership and administrative skill Source: Administrative Order No. 37 Sidebar 2. Nominees for Chancellor UP Manila Manuel Bautista Agulto Director of the Institute of Ophthalmology since 2000 and a professor in the College of Medicine.

Vision statement title (VST): UP Manila: Beyond a Research University Alberto Barrios Roxas Dean of the College of Medicine UPM and a professor in the Department of Surgery.

VST: UP Manila: The Health Sciences Center for the Filipino Roland Simbulan professor in Development Studies and Public Management.

VST: UP Manila: Isang Pamantasang Dalubhasa at Makabayan UP Los Baños Dr. Domingo E. Angeles Dean of the College of Agriculture.

VST: Leveraging UPLB as a National Research Institution Dr. Eulogio Castillo professor of Credit Cooperatives.

VST: UPLB as a Center of Excellence for Agriculture and Forestry Dr. Rex Victor D. Cruz Dean and a professor in the College of Forestry and Natural Resources.

VS: UPLB as a Graduate and Research

partnerships (PPPs) and the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program.

“Sa unang tingin, masasabing tumaas ang badyet para sa mga batayang serbisyo, pero kung susuriing mabuti, kalakhan naman ng pondong ay nakalaan para sa mga programang para sa pagpapataas ng pribadong tubo,” said IBON Research Head Sonny Africa. A large portion of the budget will also be allotted to untested short-term projects such as the CCT, Africa added.

Prioritizing debt

Despite the slight decrease in the allocation for debt servicing next year, the P738.6 billion allocation for principal and interest payment is still more than twice than P309 billion allocation for the education sector and 15 times larger than the P49.9 billion allotment for health.

“Makikita dito na una pa rin sa priorities ni Aquino ang pagbabayadutang, kaysa kalusugan at pag-aaral ng mga Pilipino,” said UP Staff Regent Jossel Ebesate.

Eventhough the 2012 budget is 10.4 percent higher than the current

University Dr. Rene Rafael Espino professor at the Crops Science Cluster of the College of Agriculture.

VST: Reach(i)ng Out Dr. Lt. Col. Vivian A. Gonzales faculty of the Institute of Development Management and Governance and College of Public Affairs.

VST: A Vision for UPLB: Advancing in Character and Competence for National Service Dr. Felino P. Lansigan professor at the Institute of Statistics and College of Arts and Sciences, and an affiliate professor at the School of Environmental Science and Management.

VST: A Vision for UPLB Dr. Roberto F Rañola UPLB Vice Chancellor for Administration and Professor in the Department of Agriculture Economics.

VST: Moving Forward and Accelerating the Gains of UPLB through Distinctive Excellence in Agriculture, Biotechnology, Engineering and Environment.

UP Visayas Dr. Rex Baleña professor in UP Miagao campus. After earning a PHD in Oceanography in the University of Hawaii, he has been known as the “First Filipino Ocean Physicist”.

VST: Leading an Institution in Turmoil: Restoring Honor and Revelance Dr. Carlos C. Baylon professor in the Institute of Aquaculture, College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences. He also serves as Chairperson for the Bids and Awards Committee of UPV. VST: UP Visayas: A National University we can be Proud of Dr. Rommel A. Espinosa Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and is an Associate Professor of Physics.

VST: A Vision for UPV Dr. Alice Joan G. Ferrer Vice Chancellor for Planning and Development of UPV. VST: One UPV in UP: UP Visayas in UP’s Second Century

budget, the said amount is “still historically austere,” IBON said.

The total projected government expenditure for 2012 is only 13.3 of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), or the total value of goods and services produced in the Philippines, as compared to the 17.1 percent reached in 1997 and 24 percent in 1990.

‘Deceptive increases’

“This budget — the first that this administration is fully crafting — embodies our commitment to lift the poor from poverty through honest and effective governance,” Aquino said in his budget message. Various agencies were given increases in their budget allocation to implement reforms sought by the administration, he explained.

However, most of the increases included in the 2012 budget are directed only towards “increasing private profits” and financing “antidevelopment projects,” Africa said.

For example, while the social services sector — which includes funds for education, housing and health — was given a P54.3-billion increase in allocation, bulk of the additional funds would be spent on “dubious purposes,” Africa explained.

Of the P54.3-billion increase for social services, P39.5 billion was allotted to the CCT program called Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), which aims to extend cash assistance to around three million beneficiaries.

“The Aquino administration still does not have any major studies on the impact of the CCT program even as it is seeks a P18.3-billion or 86 percent increase in the budget for CCTs to P39.5 billion in 2012,” IBON said.

Though the World Bank released a policy note recently which states that the Philippine CCT program could increase annual incomes of beneficiaries by 12.6 percent and effectively reduce poverty, the said

SA MGA SULOK NG ALAALA. Binubusisi ng guwardiyang si Nancy Duran, 45, ang isang kabinet sa Narra dormitory, na nakatakdang gibain ngayong Setyembre. Ililipat ang UP Integrated School sa kinatatayuan ng Narra upang magbigay-daan sa isang commercial center na itatayo ng Ayala sa kahabaan ng Katipunan Avenue. Chris Martin Imperial. study was only a simulation based on government poverty statistics and may prove to be inconclusive in actual studies, Africa explained.

“So we have a multi-billion peso program that is rapidly expanding but not because of any proven effectiveness. Despite the hype, the program is not really going to address the roots of poverty in the country, and is short-lived by design and due to wind-up soon after the global Millennium Development Goal (MDG) review in 2015,” IBON added.

In the Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016, the 4Ps program is targeted to reach its peak of implementation by 2014, a year before the MDG review. In succeeding years, the funding for the program would be gradually decreased until it ends in 2018.

Meanwhile, the government also allotted P22.1 billion for “strategic support” for PPPs, which includes funds for right of way, infrastructure and support programs to boost

trading and investment in the country.

Cuts in basic services

“Naglaan ng malaking badyet ang gobyerno para sa pagsuporta sa pagpasok ng foreign companies sa bansa, samantalang kinaltasan naman ang pondo para sa mga ospital at state universities,” Ebesate said.

For 2012, the tbudget for state universities and colleges (SUCs) was reduced by P146.6 million, with 51 SUCs suffering cuts in their budget.

Meanwhile, the allocation for public hospitals in the country decreased by around P1.1 billion.

“We are alarmed that state support for education and other social services under President Aquino is diminishing in measures, and deteriorating in quality.

Amidst the low wages of the Filipino workers and the skyrocketing prices of basic goods and services, it is high time to ensure that fundamental education does not become a further burden to the ordinary Filipino,” according to the unity statement of the UP community. ●

UPLB students slam nomination of OSA director as chancy Isabella Patricia Borlaza At the onset of the chancellorship selection in UP Los Baños (UPLB), several students called for the removal of UPLB Office of Student Affairs (OSA) Director Vivian Gonzales from the list of nominees presented on August 16.

League of Filipino Students (LFS) UPLB submitted a letter to the chancellorship selection committee on August 18 to protest against the nomination of Gonzales.

In the letter, LFS cited Gonzales’ involvements as OSA Director that “did not forward the interests of the students,” such as the delay

in the proclamation of student councils, non-collection of student funds, increase in dormitory accommodation fees and charging of cases against student leaders.

“The search committee [however] does not have the power to eliminate any of the nominees but such information would be included in the report to the [UP] President,” said former Faculty Regent Judy Taguiwalo, who is a member of the UPLB chancellorship search committee.

The search committee will only “ensure that there are enough qualified nominees to the position” (see sidebar 1) and will serve as the “fact-finding body,” said UP

to 2001 and OSA Director since 2008, Gonzales has “exhibited a non-consultative and repressive leadership,” according to LFS. There was much contention when she took the position in 2008 since she was “merely appointed by the UPLB Chancellor Luis Rey Velasco and did not undergo the usual screening for the position,” said Allen Lemence, the student representative in the UPLB chancellorship search committee.

In March 2009, Gonzales withheld the announcement of elected officials of the University Student Council, claiming that the newly-elected officers from the Samahan ng Kabataan para sa Bayan (Sakbayan) party violated the Student Election Code continue to page 11 >>

4 • Kulê Balita

Martes 23 Agosto 2011

8 orgs in CSSP to lose tambayans John Toledo Eight university-wide (univ-wide) organizations housed in the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy (CSSP) may lose their tambayans next year as the CSSP administration plans to give priority to college-based organizations in granting tambayans.

In a meeting with officers of nine university-wide organizations housed in CSSP last June 27, the CSSP Office of Student Activities (CSSP OSA) announced that several univ-wide orgs may have to relocate their tambayans currently found at the CSSP compound to give way to college-based organizations.

The 1999 Student Guide defines univ-wide organizations as groups with members coming from different colleges, while college-based organizations draw most of their members from a particular college.

The CSSP OSA needs to regulate the use of space within the college based on standing policies, said CSSP OSA Director Jay Yacat.

“Generally, tambayans within the colleges are for college-based organizations.

However, should there be sufficient space, universitybased organizations may be given tambayans within college premises,” according to Section 2.5 of the Student Guide.

Currently, there are 32 student organizations housed in CSSP, of which nine have univ-wide membership while 23 are college-based. Of the 32 organizations in CSSP, only 21 have tambayans, 8 of which are univwide orgs. To accommodate the ten college-based orgs which do not have tambayans, theuniv-wide orgs may possibly be evicted, Yacat explained.

No eviction will take place “at this moment,” as the CSSP administration is still figuring how to resolve the issue without undermining univ-wide organizations, Yacat said.

“If students have the right to form and be part of organizations, then organizations also have the right to a tambayan,” said University Student Council Committee on Organizations, Fraternities and Sororities Chair Gail Orduña. Tambayans are “vital in maintaining cohesive connections among members and making the orgs’ culture and tradition stand through time,” she noted.

‘Notice of eviction’

Though the CSSP administration has yet to announce which univ-wide organizations will be evicted due to the lack of tambayans, two univ-wide orgs have already been notified by the CSSP administration to vacate their tambayans.

In a letter addressed to the UP Red Cross Youth (RCY), Center for International Studies (CIS) Director Cynthia Zayas instructed the RCY to vacate their tambayan near the director’s office in Benton Hall by August 31 and pay the remaining P1,800 electric bill. RCY has no formal permit to set up the said tambayan, OSA Director Rommel Rodriguez said.

The CIS director complained that the organization’s activities are disturbing the operations of her office, RCY President Kamille Ignacio said. The UP RCY’s tambayan will be relocated to Vinzons Hall, at the right side of OSA beside the tambayan of UP Tangway, Rodriguez said.

Meanwhile, the tambayan of UP Kalilayan, the provincial organization for students from Quezon, which was formerly located in the CSSP Kanlungan Complex, has been demolished recently due to termite infestation. Though Yacat has offered the organization a space beside the CSSP East Wing first floor, near the tambayan of UP Association of Political Science Majors, Kalilayan

President Kerren Valderamos said the org has yet to have a tambayan.

The University Student Council (USC) is currently looking into the issues presented by organizations in CSSP and other colleges, USC Chair Jemimah Garcia said. As much as possible, the USC will not allow “unfair treatment” of organizations and the eviction from tambayans without proper relocation, she added.

OSA will also convene univwide organizations, fraternities and sororities in an “organizational summit” on October 21 to address issues such as tambayan eviction, Rodriguez said.

The lack of tambayans in the university is one of the effects of the inadequate budget that the government gives to UP, Rodriguez explained. This lack may hinder students from organizing themselves, which is a right that the university upholds, he added. ● UNDER PRESSURE. UP Lady Shuttler Bianca Margareth Legaspi prepares to serve in the badminton singles match against DLSU’s Reyne Calimlim held at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on August 21. After bagging a win in the doubles match, the Lady Maroons finally succumbed to DLSU’s strong offense in singles, losing with a tally of 4-1. Chris imperial

BULLDOGS TROUNCE MAROONS, 65-43

SPORTSCENE Isabella Patricia Borlaza The UP Fighting Maroons suffered an overwhelming defeat in its second game against the National University (NU) Bulldogs, 65-43, its seventh loss for the 74th season of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).

After a close fight with the Far Eastern University Tamaraws at 59-53 last August 18, the Maroons succumbed

to the unstoppable force of the NU Bulldogs on August 21 at the Araneta Coliseum, dragging the UP ballers to the bottom of the overall standing along with the University of the East.

The Maroons tried to fire up their first game in the second round of the Men’s Basketball Tournament. But five minutes into the first quarter, the Maroons gave away six free-throw shots for fouls earned while attempting to block Bulldogs spitfire tandem Bobby Parks and Emmanuel Mbe. Barely able to skid past the Bulldogs’ blocks, the Maroons was off to a rough start in the second quarter at 17-6. The Bulldogs secured their command of the ball and trapped the Maroons in half-court. The Maroons attempted to fire several three-point

shots, which was only able to add seven points to their score, capping the end of half-time at 27-13.

The Bulldogs continued dominating the court in the third quarter as Parks and Mbe scored a total of 17 points while the five Maroons registered only a total of 13 points for the quarter.

With a flat score of 60-30 in the last three minutes of the final quarter, the Maroons manage to clinch 13 more points, barely enough to compensate for their poor performance earlier in the game.

“We actually got [the Maroons] out of their game by playing defense.

They had a harder time to run since we make them play half-court. UP has a hard time executing in half-court,” said Parks, who registered the most

number of points at 22 for the game.

“I thought that we defended well as a team but we shot poorly. We were getting open shots. I don’t believe that we were forced to miss. We just missed,” said UP head coach Ricky Dandan.

The Maroons was able to secure only 17 out of 63 attempts or a 27 percent shooting average in this game. The Maroons was led by Paolo Romero, who scored seven points.

Forward Michael Silungan and Jose Manuel each registered only two points in the game.

The UP ballers will be facing final four contender Adamson University Falcons on August 27.

“The next team [Falcons] has many shooters. We’ll see how we can block those shooters,” Dandan said. ●

Experience photojournalism.

Join the Philippine Collegian.

Go to Room 401 Vinzons Hall with your portfolio, 2 bluebooks and pen.

For inquiries, contact Richard at 09054596893

5 • Kulê Balita

Martes 23 Agosto 2011

Bagong suspek sa pagdukot kina Karen at She, kinasuhan na Mary Joy T. Capistrano Idinagdag na sa listahan ng mga akusado sa pagdukot sa mga nawawawalang estudyante ng UP na sina Karen Empeño at Sherlyn Cadapan si Army Staff Sergeant Edgardo Osorio, na kinilala bilang security aide ni Retired Major General Jovito Palparan.

Nakilala at itinuro si Osorio ni Wilfredo Ramos, isa sa mga testigo sa pagdukot sa dalawang estudyante, nang dumalo ang suspek sa ikalawang pagdinig ng Department of Justice (DOJ) sa mga kasong kriminal na isinampa laban kay Palparan at ilan

pang kasapi ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) noong Hulyo 19.

Agad na ipinag-utos ni DOJ Assistant State Prosecutor Juan Pedro Navera na pangalanan ng AFP ang nasabing security aide ni Palparan.

Bilang pagtalima sa utos ng DOJ, inilahad ni Provost Marshal General Col. Herbert Yambing ang pagkakakilanlan ni Osorio sa pagdinig noong Agosto 19. Kalakip ng summary of information na isinumite ni Yambing sa DOJ ang dalawang larawan ng akusado na positibo namang tinukoy ni Ramos.

Bunsod ng paglabas ng pagkakakilanlan ng bagong suspek, agad na naghain ng amended joint

complaint ang mga magulang nina Empeño at Cadapan upang isama si Osorio sa listahan ng akusado.

Nakatakdang maghain ng counter affidavit ang kampo ni Osorio sa susunod na pagdinig sa Agosto 31. Magpapadala rin ang DOJ ng subpoena kay Osorio upang padaluhin sa nasabing pagdinig.

“Sana magpakita si Osorio [sa susunod na pagdinig] para lubusan na siyang makilala ng aming testigo at kung mapatunayang akusado, ikulong na,” ani Concepcion Empeño, ina ni Karen.

Bagong akusado

Namukhaan umano ni Ramos si

Panawagang pagpapalaya kay Ericson Acosta, tumitindi Jeremy Pancho Bunsod ng patuloy na pagkakapiit ni Ericson Acosta nang walang malinaw na kaso, nanawagan na ang Amnesty International (AI), isang pandaigdigang samahan na nagsusulong ng karapatang pantao, na agarang palayain o isailalim sa paglilitis ang 37-taong gulang na manggagawang pangkultura.

Sa isang pahayag na inilabas noong Agosto 12, ipinaliwanag ng AI na kailangang palayain o isailalim ang si Acosta sa paglilitis dahil mahigit anim na buwan na siyang nakapiit nang hindi nililitis.

“Under article 9 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which the Philippines is party, anyone subject to arrest or detention is entitled to undergo trial within a reasonable time or else, released,” ayon sa pahayag ng AI. Batay sa Republic Act 8493 o ang Speedy Trial Act, nararapat magkaroon ng pagdinig sa isang kaso 180 araw matapos itong isampa. “However, 180 days have already passed without Acosta being arraigned, since the prosecutor has yet to file a formal complaint in court,” ayon sa AI. Inaresto ng mga kasapi ng 3rd Infantry Battalion ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) si Acosta sa San Jorge, Samar noong Pebrero 13 sa hinalang kasapi siya ng New People’s Army. Tatlong araw matapos ang pag-aresto, sinampahan siya ng kasong illegal possession of explosives, na hindi maaaring piyansahan.

Nagsasagawa ng pagsasaliksik si Acosta sa kalagayan ng karapatang pantao sa Samar nang siya ay dakpin ng militar, ayon sa kanyang sinumpaang salaysay na isinumite sa Regional Trial Court Branch 41 sa Western Samar.

“I was arrested without warrant while not committing any crime or doing anything illegal… I was also denied the right to counsel; denied a phone call and prevented from contacting my family or my lawyer and subjected to prolonged interrogation for 44 hours,” ani Acosta sa isang pahayag. Dagdag niya, dumanas siya ng matinding tortyur sa ilalim ng AFP habang isinasailalim sa interogasyon.

Kilala si Acosta bilang isang manggagawang pangkulturang bihasa sa pagsulat ng mga awit at akdang makabayan. Naging patnugot siya ng Kultura sa Philippine Collegian noond dekada ‘90 at isa rin sa mga nagtatag ng pangkulturang organisasyong Alay Sining sa UP Diliman.

“Malaking bagay ang suporta ng Amnesty International sa paglaya ni Ericson Acosta. Patunay ito ng papalawak na suporta ng international community hindi lang sa kanyang pagpapalaya kundi sa agarang pagpapalaya din ng lahat ng bilanggong pulitikal sa bansa,” ani Terry Ridon, National Chairperson ng League of Filipino Students.

‘Matagalang proseso’

Makailang ulit nang naghain ng petisyon ang kampo ni Acosta upang mapawalang-bisa ang kasong

Osorio nang dumalo siya kasama si Palparan sa pagdinig ng DOJ noong Hulyo 19, ani Atty.Edre Olalia, legal counsel ng panig ng mga biktima.

“Our witness is sure that the person he identified, which the AFP claims to be Osorio, was part of the team that abducted Karen and Sherlyn­­,” ani Atty.

Ephraim Cortez ng National Union of People’s Lawyers (NUPL).

Isa si Osorio sa mga sundalong dumukot kina Cadapan at Empeño at sa magsasakang si Manuel Merino, ani Ramos, na anak ng may-ari ng bahay sa Barangay San Miguel, Hagonoy Bulacan na pinasok ng mga military noong Hunyo 2006.

Ayon sa testimonya ni Ramos, si Osorio ang mismong nagtali ng kamay at nagtutok ng baril sa kanya at sa kanyang ama habang marahas na tinangay ng ibang sundalo ang tatlo.

Bumalik pa umano si Osorio matapos maisakay ang mga biktima upang kalagan si Ramos at ang kanyang ama.

Samantala, ipinagtanggol naman ni Palparan si Osorio sa nakaraang pagdinig. Ani Palparan, inosente si Osorio at nagkakilala lamang sila nang magsimula na ang mga pagdinig sa DOJ. “I just requested additional security for myself and the group because we feel we are threatened every time we attend hearings,” ani Palparan. Dagdag niya, tila nais ng kampo nina Empeño at Cadapan na kasuhan lahat ng taong nakapaligid sa kanya.

“The supplemental affidavit of Ramos helped in identifying one of the abductors, and the fact that this person is a close-in security personnel of Palparan, in addition to the fact that the other respondents are his henchmen, show his direct participation in the abduction,” ani Cortez. ●

ILLUMINATION. Participants of the Uncensored: A forum on Press Freedom and New Media stage a candlelighting ceremony and call for the immediate passage of the Freedom of Information Bill at the UP Oblation Plaza on August 18. The forum is part of a series of activites in commemoration of the National Press Freedom Month. Airnel T. Abarra isinampa sa kanya ngunit wala pa ring kongkretong aksyong naisasagawa hangggang sa kasalukuyan, ani Cristina Palabay, convenor ng Tanggol Bayi-Karapatan, samahan ng mga kababaihang nagtatanggol sa karapatang pantao.

Noong Abril 20, naglabas ng resolusyon ang provincial prosecutor ng Samar na nagmungkahing ipagpatuloy ang pagsampa ng kasong illegal possession of explosives laban kay Acosta.

“After carefully examining and evaluating the evidence on record, the undersigned is convinced...that the respondent probably committed the crime of illegal possession of explosive…The acts of the arresting military officer and personnel enjoy the presumption of regularity in the performance of official duty,” ayon sa anim na pahinang resolusyong isinulat ni Prosecutor Agustin Avalon.

Naghain na ng motion for reconsideration ang National Union of People’s Lawyers (NUPL) sa Office of the Provincial Prosecutor noong Hunyo 24 upang mapawalang-bisa ang resolusyon ni Avalon.

“As citizens longing for justice, we await your prompt action on the matter. We respectfully urge your honorable office to reconsider and set aside the April 20 resolution

by Prosecutor Avalon, and to issue a new resolution dismissing the complaint against Ericson Acosta as soon as possible,” ayon sa motion for reconsideration ng NUPL.

Omnibus amnesty

Sa komemorasyon ng ika-28 taong anibersaryo ng kamatayan ni Benigno Aquino, Jr. noong Agosto 21, nanawagan ang grupong Bagong Alyansang Makabayan at Karapatan

Human Rights Alliance na agarang palayain ng gobyernong Aquino ang 342 bilanggong pulitikal sa bansa, kabilang si Acosta.

“Today, as we commemorate the death of Ninoy, we also remember him as a political prisoner who cried justice. We take this occasion to call on the President to serve justice to political prisoners by releasing them through a general, unconditional and omnibus amnesty,” pahayag ng Karapatan.

“The justice that Ninoy was searching for years ago, when P-Noy was still a teenager, may be served to the political prisoners of today, now that P-Noy is the President of this Republic. He now has the power to release all the political prisoners,” dagdag ng Karapatan. ●

6-7 • Kulê Lathalain - Kultura

May ginto sa Abo Yaman ng mga Aeta sa Bundok Abo Axl Ross Tumanut Limang kilometro mula sa hilaga ng Bulkang Pinatubo, matatanaw ang Bundok Abo na ipinangalan sa kulay abong mga ulap na nagtatakip sa tuktok nito. Sakop ng Barangay Camias, Porac, Pampanga ang bundok, na siyang bumubuhay sa humigitkumulang 3,000 katutubong Aetang nakatira sa mga maliliit na bahay na gawa sa pawid at kawayang nakatirik sa paligid ng bundok.

Sa Bundok Abo kinukuha ng mga katutubo ang kanilang pagkain sa pang-araw-araw at ang mga halamang gamot na ipinanlulunas nila sa kanilang karamdaman. Doon rin naghahanapbuhay ang mga Aeta; umaani at kumukuha sila ng mga produktong tulad ng gabi, ube, saging, papaya, langka, kalabasa, patani na kanilang ibinebenta sa mga sakadora.

Tuwing panahon ng pagtatanim, isinusuot ng mga Aeta ang kanilang tradisyonal na kasuotan bilang paggalang sa kalikasan. Dalawang buwan nilang pinaghahandaan ang pagtatanim ng gabi at walong buwang hinihintay ang mga bunga. Kung maganda ang panahon, aani sila ng 50 sako na binibili sa halagang P1,300 bawat sako. Habang naghihintay, inaabala nila ang sarili sa pag-aani ng saging o mga puso ng saging.

Pagdilim ng Ulap

Tila nakakabit na ang buhay ng mga Aeta sa bundok. Panahon pa diumano ng Kastila sila nakatira rito, ani Kapt. Edwin Abuque. Dito na umano nakalibing ang ninuno ng mga katutubong Aeta. Nagmumula rin sa dibdib ng bundok ang Ilog Gumain kung saan kinukuha ng mga katutubo ang kanilang inumin at panligo, panlaba at patubig sa pananim.

Masaya at masaganang namumuhay ang mga katutubo bago pumutok ang Bulkang Pinatubo noong 1991, kuwento ni Mang Edwin

Danan, sekretarya ng Pagkakaisa ng mga Ayta sa Camias.

Matapos pumutok ang Pinatubo, pinagsikapan ng mga katutubong Aetang ibalik ang dating matiwasay na buhay. Ngunit muling nagambala ang pamumuhay ng mga katutubong Aeta nang magsumite ang Pisumpan Copper Mines, Inc. (PCMI) ng aplikasyon upang minahin ang 1,164 ektarya na deposito ng copper sa Bundok Abo noong 1991.

Kasabay ng paghahanda ng PCMI ng mga dokumentong kailangan upang makapagmina sa Bundok Abo, agresibo rin namang tinutulan ng mga Aeta ang proyekto. Tiniyak ng mga katutubong hindi makuha ng kumpanya ang kinakailangang Environmental Impact Assessment na rekisito sa Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC), na siyang pangunahing rekisito bago magmina.

Sariling karanasan ang nagturo sa mga katutubo ng panganib ng pagmimina. Binaha ang komunidad ng mga Aeta noong Hulyo 2002 nang umulan at umapaw ang mga dumi ng minahan sa Bundok Pili sa San Marcelino, Zambales. Ang may-ari ng PCMI ay isa sa mga stockholder ng kumpanyang nagmina sa humigitkumulang 500 ektarya ng lupa sa Bundok Pili.

Trahedya ng Karahasan

Sa isang pulong noong 2008, tinakot umano ng kumpanya ang apat na lider ng mga Aeta upang lagdaan ang isang memorandum of agreement (MOA) na magpapahintulot sa pagmimina sa lugar. Isa sa mga lider ang tumangging lumagda sa kasunduan at pinagbantaan ng mga nagkonsulta na “walang sisihan.”

Natagpuang patay ang lider paglipas

ng ilang araw, ani Mang Edwin.

Sa kabila ng pagtutol ng mga katutubo, patuloy lamang ang PCMI sa pagpupumilit na minahin ang kanilang lupain. Nagsagawa ng konsultasyon ang mga kinatawan ng PCMI, ilang ahensya ng gobyerno at ang mining operator ng PCMI na Shuley Mines Inc. na pagmamay-ari ng isang Tsinong negosyante, sa Barangay Camias nitong Marso 12, subalit nabigo pa rin silang makakuha ng ECC. Mariing tinututulan ng mga Aeta ang pagmimina dahil malaki ang magiging pinsala nito sa Bundok Abo at kalapit na mga lugar. Mapipinsala ang mga pangisdaan, taniman at mga kabahayan ng mga katutubo dahil maaaring umapaw at gumuho sa spillway ang dumi ng minahan sa pagdaloy ng lahar sa mga ilog pababa ng kapatagan. Magiging dahilan naman ng pagkamatay ng mga isda at pagkontamina ng tubig sa ilog ang acid mine drainage na dulot ng paghuhukay ng mga mineral.

Pera lamang ang habol ng kumpanya sa bundok, ngunit katumbas na ng buhay ang kabundukan para sa mga katutubong Aeta, ani Abuque.

Dahas ang tugon sa mga Aetang tumututol sa pagmimina.

Tila katuwang pa ng kumpanya ang mga elemento ng military sa lugar, laluna’t tinatakot ng mga sundalo ang mga katutubo upang mapwersa silang pumayag sa pagmimina, ani

Kuha ni John Keithley Difuntorum Disenyo ng pahina ni Jerome Tagaro Pastor Danny Capuno, coordinator ng Ipamingwa, isang alyansa ng mga organisasyong tutol sa pagmimina sa Bundok Abo. Kuwento ni Norman Capuno, isang kabataang Aeta, isang magsasakang pababa ng bundok ang hinaras ng mga sundalong napadaan sa lugar matapos nitong mangalap ng mga papaya.

Pinagkamalan ng mga sundalong nagbibigay ito ng pagkain sa mga miyembro ng New People’s Army kaya winasak ang kanyang mga ani at tinutukan pa ng baril.

Hanggang ngayon, wala pa ring katarungang natatamo para sa mga pinaslang na mga lider ng mga katutubo. Kabilang na rito si Bienvenido Capuno na binaril at pinatay noong 2005.

Para sa Nakagisnang Paraiso

Bagamat nariyan ang Indigenous People’s Rights Act (IPRA) at ang Mining Act of 1995 upang ipagtanggol ang karapatan ng mga katutubo, nakakalusot pa rin ang pagmimina sa mga lupaing ninuno, ani Danan.

Nakasaad sa IPRA na kailangan muna ng mga katutubo na kumuha ng Certificate of Ancestral Domain Title (CADT) bago kilalanin ang lupaing ninuno bilang kanila. Nagagamit ng mga kumpanyang ang probisyong ito upang mapadali ang kanilang pagaangkin sa lupa ng mga katutubo.

Hanggang walang hawak na CADT ang komunidad, maaaring ibenta ng mga indibidwal ang mga bahagi ng lupaing ninuno sa mga kumpanya.

Bagaman nakapaloob naman sa Mining Act na walang lupaing ninuno ang bubuksan sa pagmimina nang walang pahintulot ng mga apektadong katutubo, hindi pa rin lubusang ipinagbabawal ng naturang batas ang pagmimina sa mga lupaing ninuno.

Nakasaad sa probisyon ng batas na ito na buksan ang lahat ng lupa na sagana sa mineral, pribado man o pampubliko sa pagmimina. Ayon pa sa batas, tanging royalty lamang ang makukuha ng mga katutubo sakaling minahin ng isang kumpanya ang kanilang lupain.

Samantalang mga katutubong Aeta ang mapipinsala, mga dayuhang kumpanya naman ang makikinabang sakaling matuloy ang pagminina sa Bundok Abo. Subalit ayon sa Ipamingwa, “Our minerals are ours to cultivate and develop for the benefit of the majority of the people in this generation and that which will succeed us.”

Kung gayon, mas malawak pang mamamayan ang apektado sa tuwing aabusuhin ng mga kumpanya ang likas na yaman ng mga kabundukan. Kaisa ng mga Aeta sa kanilang pangongontra sa pagmimina ang iba pang pangkat ng katutubo, magsasaka, taong simbahan, mga local na pamahalaan, propesyunal at kabataan. Ngayong nagbabadya ang madidilim na ulap sa tahanan ng mga Aeta, patuloy ang pakikipaglaban para sa bundok na bahagi ng buhay at kultura ng mga katutubo. May mga ulat nina Mila Polinar at Marah Sayaman ●

Martes 23 Agosto 2011 ng prutas at gulay at mamuhay sa gilid ng ilog.

Hindi rin nagtagal at nagsimulang sumuway ang mga magsasaka sa utos ni Ramos. Mula sa pampang ng mga ilog, unti-unti silang umahon tungong kapatagan at tinamnan ang mga bahagi ng lupang nasasayang.

Sa pamumuno ni Damasa “Nanay Masang” Perez, bumuo ang mga magsasaka ng organisasyon na siya namang marahas na sinupil ni Ramos sa tulong ng mga pulis at militar.

Ngunit hindi nagpatinag ang mga magsasaka: gumawa sila ng barikada at naglagay ng malalaking pako sa daan upang hindi makapasok ang mga traktora ng mga militar. Kasabay nito, naghain din sila ng kaso upang

Ma. Katherine H. Elona Halos isang oras ang biyahe mula Pasay papuntang Dasmariñas, Cavite. Mula sa Robinsons Mall, sumakay kami ng dyip papuntang Langkaan at ng traysikel papunta sa Abot Kamay Relocation Site.

Abala ang lungsod na aming pinanggalingan—balisa ang mga maninindang nakapuwesto sa harap ng mga restaurant at iba pang gusali, at paspasan ang takbo ng mga pampasadang bus at jeep. Ngunit habang lumalayo kami sa highway, untiunting sumilip ang banayad at luntiang tanawin sa pagitan ng mga kahonkahong bahay na nakahilera sa kalsada.

Bumaba kami sa tapat ng simbahan at sinalubong ni Miriam Villanueva, o Aling Miriam. Binagtas namin ang maputik na daan at matapos ang ilang pasikot-sikot sa pagitan ng mga bahay, nasilayan namin sa likod ng relocation site ang malawak na sakahan ng Lupaing Ramos (LR).

Huling pitak ng lupa

Ang Lupaing Ramos sa gitna ng lungsod

Sa likod ng lungsod Waring kumakaway ang mga pananim na mais nang dumating kami roon; buwan na ng Agosto at nasa hustong gulang na ang mga tanim para anihin. Magkakawangis naman ang hitsura ng mga bahay sa LR— may sementadong bahagi ngunit kalakha’y gawa lamang sa mga retaso ng kahoy at yero.

Tumigil kami panandali sa bahay ni Aling Loida, na kapitbahay ni Aling Miriam sa LR. Habang nakikipaglaro kami sa mga anak at apo ni Aling Loida, nagkwentuhan sila ni Aling Miriam tungkol sa susunod na panahon ng pag-ani.

Kuwento ni Aling Loida, wala silang naitanim nitong mga nakaraang buwan dahil sa mahal ng binhi at kawalan nila ng puhunan. Dahil walang aasahang ani, itinawid nila ng kaniyang asawa ang apat na anak at dalawang apo sa pamamagitan ng paggawa’t pagbenta ng uling at sa tulong na rin ng mga kasamahang magsasaka.

Nang ipinagpatuloy namin ang paglalakad, napansin namin ang mga tagpi ng kapatagang walang pananim.

Kuha ni Chris Imperial Kung hindi hinahanda para tamnan, wala ring mga binhing naipunla rito katulad ng kaso nina Aling Loida.

Doon na ipinanganak, lumaki at nagkapamilya ang karamihan sa mga residente, kabilang sina Aling Miriam at Aling Loida. Ngunit nakapagtatanim man sila sa lupain, hindi pa rin ganap na kanila ang sakahan. Nanatiling nakaamba ang panganib na palayasin sila ng diumano’y may-ari ng lupa.

Sa gitna ng laban Kuwento ng mga residente, Lupang Kano ang bansag noon sa LR dahil naging base ito ng mga Amerikano

noong 1900. Hinawan ng mga ninuno ng mga kasalukuyang residente ang kagubatan, at doon sila nagsimulang magtanim ng palay, mais at batad.

Maayos na namuhay ang mga magsasakang nanirahan doon hanggang dumating ang isang Pampangueñong negosyante nagnganglangang Emerito Ramos.

Inangkin ni Ramos ang lupa, at mula sa pagiging taniman ng palay at mais, ginawa niyang tubuhan ang LR upang hindi ito maisama sa reporma sa lupang isinusulong noon ni Ferdinand Marcos. Dahil dito, napilitan ang mga magsasaka na magtanim na lamang

ligal na maipamahagi sa kanila ang lupa. Nanalo sila mula sa Municipal Agrarian Reform Office hanggang sa Presidential Agrarian Reform Council, ngunit umapela si Ramos at hanggang sa kasalukuya’y nakabinbin pa rin ang huling desisyon sa Korte Suprema.

Sa ngalan ng pag-unlad Kasabay ng paghihintay para sa ganap na pamamahagi sa kanila ng lupa, nagsimula namang tumirik ang mga pabrika’t iba pang gusali sa paligid ng LR. Plano umano ng lokal na pamahalaan na gawing industriyalisadong lunan ang Dasmariñas.

Sa bandang hilaga ng LR matatagpuan ang Monterey Cavite Meat Plant, Metrogate, mga subdibisyon at golf course. Sa silangan naman nito nakalagak ang Euro-med Laboratories Philippines, Inc., samantalang nasa Timog ang Moldex Realty, Inc. Nasa kanluran naman ang First Cavite Industrial Estate, isang “industrial subdivision” na itinayo noong 1991.

Ipinahihiwatig man ng mga industriyang ito ang pag-unlad ng Dasmariñas, napag-iiwanan naman ang kabuhayan ng mga magsasakang nakatira sa sakahang napaliligiran ng mga industriya at pagawaan. Nang maging kagawad ng barangay si Aling Miriam, napag-alaman niyang walang pondo para sa agrikultura ang kanilang barangay. Subalit hindi lamang mga residente ang makikinabang sakaling magbigay ng suporta ang gobyerno sa mga magsasakang LR. “Kung bibigyan kami ng suporta ng gobyerno para sa pataba, mga binhi, patubig, kaya naming pakainin ang pitong barangay dito sa Dasmariñas,” ani Aling Miriam.

Para sa 300 pamilya sa LR, ang kawalan ng suporta ng gobyerno sa agrikultura ang nagtutulak sa kanilang maghanap ng ibang mapagkakakitaan labas sa kanilang kakayahan bilang mga magsasaka.

Sa tuwing mahina ang ani at hindi sasapat ang P20,000 kita sa tatlong buwang pagtatanim at pag-aalaga

Walang Tiket: Trip mo bang magliwaliw? Hindi ka ba pinatatahimik ng makakati mong mga paa? May nunal ka ba sa talampakan? Tara at sumama sa kakaibang biyahe. Sa isang iglap, mararating mo mula Luzon hanggang Mindanao. Paalala: hindi problema kahit walang pera. Walang tiket, basta’t kami ang iyong kasama.

ng mga binhi, nagtatrabaho ang mga residente bilang construction worker sa mga karatig na lugar. Dito, sa halip na kawalan ng patubig at taas ng presyo ng binhi, kontraktwalisasyon ang kanilang kalaban—hindi lalagpas ng anim na buwan at kailangan na muli nilang maghanap ng bagong trabaho.

May mga trabaho rin kagaya ng pagtataktak o paglalagay ng papel sa ilalim ng mga takip ng bote. Sa bawat 1,000 bote na malalagyan ng papel, limang piso ang kapalit na sahod. Sa tuwing pasko’y may mga nagpapalagay naman ng bumbilya sa Christmas lights–10 sentimo ang bayad sa bawat 500 bumbilyang maikakabit.

Hindi maiwasang makulong ang mga magsasaka sa ganitong uri ng mga trabaho dahil sa sakahan at pananim mamamalas ang kanilang husay at kakayahan. Sa lagay ng pamilya ni Aling Miriam, kinakailangan pa ng kanyang asawa na magtrabaho bilang security guard sa gabi kasabay ng pagsasaka sa umaga para mairaos ang araw-araw.

May ilusyon man ng pag-unlad sa palibot ng LR, patuloy pa ring mailap sa mga residente ang maginhawang buhay na matagal na nilang ipinaglalaban. Hanggang sa kasalukuyan, nagpapatuloy pa rin ang pag-oorganisa ng mga residenteng titindig para sa kanilang karapatan sa lupa. “Hindi kami takot mamatay sa bala, mas takot kami sa kalam ng sikmura,” ani Aling Miriam.

Bago matapos ang araw, sumakay kami ng traysikel pauwi at binalikan ang abalang siyudad. Waring nakikipaghabulan ang mga tao sa oras habang nilalandas namin ang mausok at mahalumigmig na paligid–hindi bakas sa kanilang mukha ang ginhawang kaakibat raw ng pagtatayo ng mga mall at pagawaan. Kung gayon, parehong mailap ang kaginhawaan sa mga taga-LR at taga-lungsod, at hindi ito kayang ikubli ng mga nagtatangkarang mall at iba pang gusali. ●

8 • Kulê Kultura

Martes 23 Agosto 2011

Una bofetada del Kulo*

Dibuho ni Nico Villarete Disenyo ng pahina ni Jerome Tagaro

Marijoe Monumento Nasabi na ang lahat, binato na pati lababo: batikos, kondenasyon, harasment, paninira at tangkang panununog, pagtatakwil, kaliwa’t kanang asunto, imbestigasyon sa Senado – may Imelda at Noynoy pa. Saan ka pa?

Pero bago pa malunod sa baha ng balitaktakan ukol sa kontrobersyal na likhang-sining na “Poleteismo” ni Mideo Cruz, namumukaw ang payahag ng UP Art Studies Department (ASD): “It’s a teaching moment,” anila – napakagandang pagkakataon para magturo. At sa diwa ng pagiging isang Iskolar nga Bayan, ang totoo’y mahalagang pagkakataon din ito sa ating lahat upang iligtas ang bait mula sa sabi-sabi, gayundin sa kanya-kanyang mga nosyon, dunong at arogansya .

Napakagandang pagkakataon din nito upang matuto.

Marami pang problema sa mundo bukod sa mga kondom sa krusipihiyo – o sa sining, wika ng iba na palagay ko’y utang-uta na nga sa kontrobersya. Ani Cruz mismo: “I understand that this is no longer about my work but an issue of art education and the broader fight for freedom of expression.”

Anang ASD, sa punto ng kasiningan: “While there are contending interpretations of an image presented by art, the ethical course of action is to process the contentions and that is what art ensures: a process of communicative action. The closure of an exhibition only achieved the closure of democratic, informed and thoughtful engagement.”

Sa pagsasara ng eksibisyong “Kulo,” ipinagkait na sa madla ang makita ang eksibisyon sa kanyang artistikong kabuuan. Hindi lamang si Cruz ang sinupil, kundi ang 31 iba pang artista na ang mga likha’y halos hindi nababanggit, o hindi naman napatungkulan ng anumang batikos. Gayundin, nagbibigay ito ng puwang upang itakda sa sinuman, o sa

anumang pahayag o likha ang panganib ng panunupil at pagdapa sa kagustuhan at intimidasyon ng ilang panig.

Ani Dean Raul Pangalangan ng UP College of Law sa isang kolum: “Mideo Cruz may have blasphemed but precisely for that reason we can only boycott but not censor him… the Bill of Rights.. protects.. ‘not free thought for those who agree with us but freedom for the thought that we hate.’”

Sa mga nakatunghay rito, maaaring makita ang “Kulo” bilang panibagong pagsasalarawan ng mga luma o nagpapatuloy na naratibo: isang alternatibo at napapanahong pagsipat sa matitingkad na aspeto ng ating kultura batay sa ugat ng mga ito sa kasaysayan.

Mahalagang punto nito ang pagiging eksibit ng mga “pasaway na Tomasino” – isang biswal na dayalogo sa mga pamana ni Rizal bilang estudyante ng University of Sto. Tomas (UST) at sa pamana ng UST bilang isang institusyon. Ito’y mga punto de bistang mapaglaro ngunit mapaglimi, kung di man tahasang matalas at kritikal sa mga pamana ng kolonisasyon sa ating kultura. Inilahad nito ang panlipunang dimensyon ng sining kaugnay ng pulitika, kultura at relihiyon.

Sa pamamagitan ng mga biswal na imahe ay sinasampal ng “Kulo” ang impluwensya at awtoridad ng ilang relihiyosong institusyon magmula pa sa panahon ni Rizal. At dahil sa aktwal na gulo at peryahan na ginatungan ng midya, sinagpang ng Simbahan at sinakyan ng mga trapong pulitiko, maaaring ang mensahe ng “Kulo,” ‘di man nito sadya, ay isa nang napakalutong na sampal sa laganap na kamangmangan, kabulukan at ipokrasya sa isang bansang sinasabing “Kristiyano.”

May panahon kung kailan sa bawat sulok, sa bawat saglit, ay kaliwa’t kanan ang pagtatanong at masiglang talakayan sa pamantasan. Hinamon nito ang kumbensyon at antuking

kaisipan. Samantala, laging hinahamon ang Iskolar upang maging kritikal sa papel ng iba’t ibang pwersa na sangkot sa sumasambulat na unos, habang sa gitna nito ay mariing naninindigan para sa interes ng publiko. Ang paninindigan at pagiging kritikal, syempre, ay hindi nangangahulugan ng bulag na pagsangayon o pagsakay sa popular na opinyon o emosyunal na kuro ng madla.

Nakaalarma ang mahahalagang isyu gaya ng kaltas sa badyet sa edukasyon, krisis sa ekonomiya, karapatang pantao o usapang pangkapayapaan, at sa isang banda, ang kontrobersya ay nagiging bahagi na rin ng isang kabuuan. Tunay na hamon ito upang maitampok at mabigyang solusyon ang mga isyu na nangangailangan ng kaisahan, ‘di lamang mula sa artista, manunulat o kabataan, kundi maging sa midya, akademya at iba pang naliliwanagan.

Maaaring manghinayang para sa lahat ng oras, laway at enerhiyang ginugugol ng marami nang dahil lang sa kontrobersyang ito, kung pagkatapos ng lahat-lahat ay wala tayong natutunan – kung mananatili ang walang katuturang galit sa pagitan ng mga panig na dapat sana’y nagtutulungan, at mamamayani pa rin sa ating lahat ang sarado at atrasadong mga pananaw at kaisipan.

Bitiw nga ni Karen Flores, bago siya magbitiw bilang Visual Arts head ng CCP: “It wasn’t about art. It wasn’t about religion. It was really about politics.” ● Si Marijoe Monumento ay isang manggagawang pangkultura at dating Kultura editor ng Philippine Collegian. Hindi siya nakakuha ng Spanish language subjects noong nasa UP pa siya. Ang artikulong ito ay pinaikli at nirebisang bersyon ng isang artikulo na unang lumabas sa Pinoy Weekly Online.

*Isang sampal sa Kulo, o maaring Isang sampal sa pwet

Hirit pa sa “Poleteismo” Sabi ng isa, “It’s a mess!” Deklarasyon naman ng isang Pambansang Alagad ng Sining: “It ain’t art!”

Anu’t anuman, kaisa ako sa opinyon na magiging produktibo ang dagdag pang pagbusisi sa artistikong merito ng obra ni Cruz, kung ang layunin nito ay hindi na ang bulag na pambubuyo at pangunguyog, kundi ang nararapat na pagpapalawak ng pananaw hinggil sa sining, kultura, kasaysayan at mga panlipunang implikasyon ng

paniniil sa malikhaing ekspresyon.

Hindi ko gawi ang mang-usisa sa mismong may-akda, laluna kung didibdibin ang sinabi sa atin na “the author is dead.”

Pero sa kabila ng mga banta, buhay pa naman si Mideo Cruz, at aniya: “My past and present works have focused on religious images, found everywhere from churches to jeepneys, which I view as part of our culture and consciousness. I consider them as neo-deities which receive some kind of worship—despite our denial that we

look upon them as ‘deities.’

“The installation has two main points: the relic (cross) and the “poon.”

The relics represent the impact on culture of the Spanish and American occupation, while the poon signifies the transformation of the deity from the Greco-Roman statuette to an embodiment of neo-liberal economy.

“The collage, made up of calendars, advertising posters, election and campaign paraphernalia, diplomas, religious images and photos

of celebrities, reflect on our culture’s search for perfection. Usually posted on worn-out walls of homes in impoverished areas, these visual materials mirror how we mould our image of ourselves in a life full of contradicting realities.

“The randomly placed condoms are meant to represent questions on hypocrisy. The phalluses are symbols of patriarchy, power and worship and the obelisk, used for sun worship, is also loaded with sexual significance.

The piece composed of plastic piggy banks inside a wooden altar can be explained by John 2:16.

“The cross attempts to convey how religion and colonization have shaped our understanding of ourselves. Malinaw po na ‘pag sinilip natin sa gitna ang krus ay hindi si Kristo ang makikita natin, maliban na lamang kung sasabihin ng sisilip na siya mismo si Kristo.” ●

9 • Kulê Lathalain

Martes 23 Agosto 2011

Breaking the bank

The world economy at the brink of collapse

succeeding a c t i o n s regarding deficit reduction.

Boom and bust ● characteristic of capitalism; alternating periods of prosperity and economic depression; cyclical

Kevin Mark R. Gomez With the world’s various economies inextricably linked to each other under the dominant framework of the free market system, shadows of another global crisis loom, manifesting itself even in the most powerful countries.

Thebackdrop to the recent London riots — several days of rampant violence in the capital of the United Kingdom, one of the world’s strongest economies — was, most analysts agree, the widespread discontent stemming from government austerity measures which took the form of huge cuts in social spending. Meanwhile, in the European Union (EU), the debt crisis which began with the bankruptcy of Greece remains unresolved, even after a €750 billion bailout package in 2010 and an additional €78 billion for Portugal this year. Both sums are funded by further debt, loaned by the International Monetary Fund and the wealthiest EU nations, such as Germany and France.

The simmering economic unrest extends from Europe to the United States, where an $800 billion stimulus package intended to stem the effects of the 2008 financial crisis failed to head off a debt crisis.

The unprecedented and historic US credit rating downgrade from its prized AAA status to AA+ last August 5 shook the global financial system, the impact extending to developing, US-dependent economies like the Philippines.

Debt ● something owed; a liability or obligation to pay

In previous months, much media coverage has been given to the bitter clashes between the White House and the Republican-dominated Congress over the US debt crisis.

The US government announced last May it had reached its $14.3 trillion legal debt cap, or the maximum amount the government can borrow, barring it from incurring further debts.

If the limit was not raised, it was estimated that the US had enough to

p a y its bills only until August 2, whereupon the US would effectively default on all its financial obligations.

Under the current capitalist system, governments have always relied on debts to finance its expenditures, such as funding for social services and the costs of warfare. In the case of the US, to bridge the deficit between its income and expenses, the US government enters into loans, bonds and other transactions with international lending institutions, foreign governments, and primarily, its own financial institutions, such as the Federal Reserve, local corporations, and banks.

Since most government investments are too large to be paid at once, debts are paid in installments.

Over time, more and more debt is incurred, while interest continues to climb.

As such, the total US debt (see sidebar) is the result of accumulated government liability across different administrations, from the pre-Ronald Reagan years until present. George W. Bush, who launched an aggressive “war on terror” in Iraq and Afghanistan, incurred the largest nominal debt, borrowing $6.1 trillion during his twoterm presidency.

The controversy in US politics regarding the debt crisis centers on how to offset the raising of the debt cap. One option, pushed by Democrats, is to impose higher taxes to increase revenues. Another option, backed by Republicans, is to pursue austerity measures such as cuts on spending for social services to reduce government deficits.

Now, the Obama administration has convinced Congress, through a compromise agreement, to increase the debt cap by $2.4 trillion. The condition, however, is for more than $900 billion to be slashed from government spending, over the next ten years, as stipulated in the Budget Control Act of 2011. A 12-member bipartisan commission will also lead

The 2008 global financial crisis that precipitated the collapse of giant investment banks and insurance corporations such as Bear Stearns and the American International Group also aggravated the US debt situation, plunging it towards the current financial crisis.

The occurrence of such crises, however, are inevitable in the historical progression of capitalism as a socioeconomic system.

For instance, the devastating crash of Wall Street in 1929 was the beginning of the Great Depression, marked by widespread poverty, severe wealth inequality, and political volatility across the globe. The 1929 crisis had its roots in the sudden fall of prices after years of ballooning wealth and speculation, similar to the bursting of the subprime mortgage bubble in 2008.

It was a harrowing manifestation of the severe consequences of the instability built into the capitalist paradigm. In fact, the US economy wouldn’t recover until the onset of World War II. According to the dictates of the free market, economic prosperity and stability are best achieved under conditions that minimize government regulation and controls. Under this framework, however, the postwar US economy was largely comprised of unchecked monocapitalists, and increasingly plagued by speculation, debt bubbles, and financial insecurity.

Of course, such a set-up was bound for eventual collapse.

When markets fail, ironically, the private sector suddenly finds government intervention necessary — not in the form of

regulations, but through bailouts.

The spectacular price tag of such bailouts make continued debt necessary; in the process, governments are caught in a vicious debt cycle, where it has to contract new loans to pay old debt, says Sonny Africa, research head of independent think-tank IBON Foundation.

Indeed, treatment of the recent crises falls within this boom-bust pattern, even across the different manifestations of capitalism, from the US to the EU,, indicating how central debt is to the system, and how complex financial machinations can conceal an inability to pay, Africa explained.

Although the US and European debt crises differ entirely in nature, it is undeniable that these events are glaring proof of the weaknesses inherent in the current global economic order, Africa added.

Revolution ● radical and pervasive change in society and social structure

Evidently, over the past century, capitalism as a socioeconomic system has held the world hostage.

The current US debt dilemma, the latest among other economic turmoil brought by the 2008 global financial breakdown, signals a continuing — and worsening — crisis.

The capitalist subscription to bailouts and chronic debts is a palliative measure, not a long-lasting solution. “The extension of the shortterm debt solves nothing and only throws problems into the

future... [it’s] a distraction,” writes Bob Chapman from independent research organization Centre for Research on Globalization.

Despite widely discredited and flawed mechanisms, capitalism prevails today, consciously preserved and defended by the few who benefit from it, exposing a harsh reality wherein genuine equality and poverty alleviation remain secondary goals to higher profits and wealth expansion of the elite.

Thus, neither the hallowed halls of legislative chambers or corporate boardrooms can or will forward a long-lasting alternative to this setup, a solution that would end the debt dilemma at the cost of the capitalist agenda. The only resort is a potent and an active force, driven by those oppressed under this system, to change the course of history. ● US debt toll (Approximations as of August 22) National debt = $14.64 trillion Gross domestic product (GDP)

= $14.85 trillion National debt-GDP ratio

= Above 98.5% National population

= 312, 044, 706 Debt per citizen =$ 46,911 Federal spending = $3.6 trillion Federal budget deficit

= $1.4 trillion Medicare/Medicaid spending

= $827 billion Social security spending

= $717 billion Defense/Wars spending

= $703 billion Source: www.usdebtclock.org

Dibuho ni Rd Aliposa Disenyo ng pahina ni Roanne Descallar

10 • Kulê Opinyon

Martes 23 Agosto 2011

CHRIS IMPERIAL

NEWSCAN

Blood, sweat and tears On this day, farmers from Hacienda Luisita will once again march towards Mendiola to condemn the massacre that transpired in the historic bridge 24 years ago. From that day on, farmers have shed blood and sweat to fight for the lands they rightfully own. The Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) was passed a year after, supposedly promoting the welfare of landless farmers.

On this day however, the CARP proves to be a slap to the faces of the thirteen killed in the Massacre and hundreds more who disappeared due to extrajudicial killings. The bill, now amended with extensions and reforms (CARPer), has failed on its purpose.

Farmers still don’t own the land they till, and landlords get the lion’s share of the land’s produce. The fact that the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) is pro-landlord shouldn’t come as a surprise. After all, a number of our legislators are landlords themselves.

The CARPer is a system bound to fail. Several provisions in the bill make it hard, if not impossible, for the farmers to eventually own agricultural

lands. For one, land distribution is separated into three phases, the last being the most problematic.

According to bill, before private agricultural lands could be distributed, the CARP must have distributed most of the land it covers. However, judging from the rate of land distribution in the 20-year implementation of the original CARP, one can’t help but have a negative outlook.

In addition, landlords can opt to convert the land covered by CARP for commercial or residential use to exempt it from land distribution.

Hacienda Yulo in Laguna is being converted into a golf course, while Hacienda Luisita is planned to be converted into a commercial and industrial complex. Under the bill, landlords need only apply to the Department of Agrarian Reform if the land is deemed to be “unsuitable” for agricultural purposes. In this manner, commercial companies such as real estate developers drive farmers out of the land.

P-Noy’s silence on land reform in his recent SONA is a testament to the government’s dedication to

The fact that the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) is pro-landlord shouldn’t come as a surprise.

After all, a number of our legislators are landlords themselves.

land distribution. “Kayo ang boss ko” appears to be directed to big companies and foreign investors.

After all, why should he and his family freely give away something they inherited from mommy?

Struggle for social justice cannot be won if landlessness persists in the countryside. Landlessness cannot be solved without genuine agrarian reform. It may still be a long way, but our resolve must stay strong. There’s always strength in numbers. ●

Moving Planet is a worldwide rally to demand solutions to the climate crisis. Come with us on foot. Come with your neighbors and your friends, your family and your co-workers. Get ready to be a part of something HUGE. Join us in a whole day worth-while event on September 24, from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm in Antipolo City! http://www.moving-planet.org/ events/ph/antipolo-city/625 For more info, contact us at info@ agham.org; 09175827917

The letter you won’t find in your mail reminder that they were humans, too.

The person to receive that letter would be the happiest person on earth, Sir Garry added.

I thought about you.

Africa was no paradise. The agency told you that you were to live in a secluded place. You were not allowed to go out of your employer’s compound as foreigners were often kidnapped in that part of the continent. You had to be accompanied by civil guards whenever you went out.

Yet, throughout the many times that I asked you, “Kumusta ka na, Ma,” you would reply with a quick “Okay lang ako, nak .”

An OFW, Sir Garry explained, would never admit to their families the harsh conditions which they suffer from. The OFW is too proud, too afraid to reveal what he/she did to earn the monthly allowance he/she sends back to the family.

A few months ago, you told me that you had contracted malaria. By the time you shared the news, you had long been healed of the disease. You didn’t want us to worry. Malaria was as common as flu in Africa. But then

The person to receive that letter would be the happiest person on earth

Make a fashion statement against budget cuts in education and social services. Entries for the logo and catchphrase making contest will be accepted until September 2 while the t-shirt design contest is open until September 6. Watch out for the Interactive Fashion show. Brought to you by the College of Home Economics, UP Acts and ALAB UP in cooperation with the University Student Council and UP Kilos Na. For more information, contact 09352950341.

Tree Planting and Climate Change Forum

MILA POLINAR

It had perhaps been a long time since I heard your voice. Ever since you left on that fateful April day, we had reduced our conversations into mere chat and text messages. Calling, you said, was far too expensive. And, due to the sporadic internet connection in Nigeria, even an internet call could not sustain a reasonable conversation.

For a year, I had been content with reading the offline messages you sometimes left me in my inbox. Due to my busy schedule, apart from the 7-hour time zone difference between the Philippines and West Africa, I rarely catch you online.

It wasn’t until I sat in an educational discussion about Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) that I changed my mind. Garry Martinez, the chairperson of Migrante International, asserted that even with the advent of new technology, we must still learn to write handwritten letters to our family members overseas. Receiving letters, he said, was a way to remind OFWs that they were still human. Apparently, amid the subhuman, slave-like conditions OFWs experience abroad, receiving a letter was perhaps a

Budget CUTtoure

again, so was AIDS. You described such diseases as if you could easily shrug them off, even when we both knew that they were quite dangerous.

Amid all these, you would argue, in typed letters, that your greatest hurdle was loneliness. You were ready to face this loneliness if only to support our education, something you would not be able to do as a single mother working in the Philippines.

Sir Garry further told of the horrifying stories of domestic workers who were starved to death by their employers, engineers who went back to their families as coffins, among others. But perhaps, your experience in Nigeria is not quite as harsh or as horrifying as their stories.

Even then, you still might need a letter Sir Garry told us about. So just in case, this is my way to remind you that apart from being an OFW, you are a mother, a sister, a mentor, a friend.

Just in case you forget, you are still a human.

And, if typed letters in a chat box would not suffice, perhaps a few printed words might make a slight difference: Thank you and I miss you. ●

Dejeuner

Indulge in Authentic French Cuisine and experience the ultimate Gastronomical Euphoria... 06+1 presents... ”Dejeuner” A taste of French Cuisine this September 2, 2011 at Alonso Hall 101 B. for tickets contact 09175042989 or visit the Foodie Friday Facebook site.

Gourmet Casino

Bet on our food.

Catch Gourmet Casino this August 31, 2011 and experience a contemporary casino-themed function while enjoying select Italian-American fusion dishes.

Room 101-B, Alonso Hall, College of Home Economics, UP Diliman. For inquiries and reservations, contact Mithi at 09228174821 or email us at gourmetcasino@gmail.com.

Limited slots only! Reserve now!

11 • Kulê Opinyon

Martes 23 Agosto 2011

UPLB students slam nomination

TEXTBACK <<from page 3

when they distributed flyers on election day.

Then Sakbayan Deputy General Leo Fuentes Jr. explained that the flyers they distributed were only reply statements to anonymous flyers circulating in the campus that accused Sakbayan of being an allied organization of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

An active member of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Gonzales hosted the Laguna Peace and Order Council meeting of military officials at the Makiling Ballroom Hall without informing UPLB Chancellor Luis Velasco last July 22, 2009.

This violated the Ramos-Abueva Agreement of 1989 and the League of Filipino Students-Department of National Defense (LFS-DND) Accord which prohibits the presence of the military within the premises of the university.

“We demand for a Chancellor that will be with us in our assertions for higher and sufficient state subsidy and upholds the genuine democratic interests of the students and other sectors of the UPLB community,” LFS said.

EKSENANG PEYUPS

Three new chancellors by September

Meanwhile, the chancellorship selection process in UP Manila (UPM) and Visayas (UPV) have also begun.

UPM will hold a multisectoral forum on August 24 to introduce the nominees to students, faculty and staff of UPM and the Philippine General Hospital.

UPV, on the other hand, started its open forum on August 22 at UP Iloilo, while another forum is scheduled in UP Miag-ao today, and in Tacloban on August 25. The final interview with the committee will be held on August 26 in Tacloban City.

UPM search committee student representative Cleve Arguelles said that the students generally want a Chancellor whose policies will ensure democratic access, preserve UP’s public character, improve its public service nature and advance student’ rights, welfare and basic services.

“A chancellor should assert together with the students a sufficient state subsidy and should oppose any form of commercialization and privatization of UP education,” said UPLB University Student Council Chairperson Pura Beatriz Valle. ●

NOOOOO WAAAAAY! Nanakaw ang textback phone ng Kule, kaya patawad at wala munang mga malalathalang mensahe ngayong linggo. Magpapalit na rin kami ng numero, kaya isave nyo na sa contacts nyo ang 09054596893. Eto muna ang aming gagamiting numero, at magpapaabiso na lang kami kung magbabago ulit ang textback number.

Wag sana kayong tamarin magtext ngayong bago na ang numero. ;P Next week’s questions:

1. Ano sa tingin mo ang dapat baguhin sa Konstitusyon ng Pilipinas?

2. Kung pwedeng manghiram ng nanay, kaninong nanay ang hihiramin mo?

Here we go again mga utaws for the hottest chikka this week, lalo na very hot nowadays coz of the midterms scare. My eyebags and acne are having the time of their life and are exploding like guns and roses. So without much further ado, here is my chorva na hotter than Amaya.

Munting Heredera No. 1. Da who is this direk from DUP (Duraan Uber Pelipenis) who is like hitting like a punching bag of his/her studyante itetch coz he is too demanding kasi.

Wow Manny P. got a lost relative in UP. Dapat ikaw na lang magfight kay Juan Marquez, perhaps you may win Many Manny Prizes or else you may get something from All for Juan, Juan for All. Nakow, direk ikaw na pala bad image ngayon. Control your sugar levels at baka may mag-explode dyan from your behind.

Munting Heredera No. 2 Da who is this USC (Uber Siksik Chick) member na naheard ko from my concealed mic in the office that is having a date! Wow ateng, ikaw na maganda. Haba ng hair mo! Pwedeng i-whip back and forth. Pakilala mo

naman sakin yang boylet mo. Basta make sure use him as your inspiration and not for your own desperation.

Don’t worry I know naman you’re not making ka-LAWkohan. Anyway ano bang gift sa iyo ni boylet? Dami ba chocolate? Pahingi naman. May sweet tooth ako dyan. Ahihihi.

Munting Heredera No. 3 Da who is the tagapagmana ng wrong spelling sa isang midterm exam in a major major subject. The little heredera bitcheza wrote poligamy on her exam, to refer to the collection of lovers by somebody para makaraos sa gabi. She just followed the spelling of bigamy raw kaya she mad palit the y with i. Ay sister, winner ang logic mo! Baka naman jeje-thinking ka lang kaya you used i. Hihihihi.

Hanep ang pagbabad sa peyups para humakot ng chika kaya beauty rest muna ako for 100 days ha?

See you mga amigas, this is your primetime bitch delivering saucy gossip, baboosh! ●

KulĂŞ The Back Page

Dibuho ni Marianne Rios

Martes 23 Agosto 2011