SINAG Issue No 3 February-March 2018

NEWS

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ISSUE NO. 3 FEB MAR 2018

Students hold surge of protests vs. Duterte ENRIQUE NAVERA

BANGON: Protesters at the February 23 Anti-Dictatorship Rally rise to the theme of GABRIELA Philippines’ “One Billion Rising” in solidarity with women and workers gathered at Mendiola.

Various groups and organizations held numerous demonstrations in response to the attacks by the administration that greeted 2018.

In UP Diliman, rallies and demands resounded in Palma Hall and other colleges as students staged a series of protests against the successive attacks of the Duterte administration across sectors, from within government to private individuals and entities. #FirstDayFight On January 16, hundreds of students welcomed the new year with a demonstration called “First Day Fight”. The rally focused against the Duterte administration’s policies, including the recently passed Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law. “Nagbago lang ang taon, pero kung paanong nanatili ang pasistang mukha ng rehimeng USDuterte ay hindi rin magbabago ang saloobin natin para lumaban! Isa lamang ang TRAIN sa sasagupain natin ngayong 2018,” the League Filipino Students – CSSP said in a statement that addressed the students for their continued mobilization.

Another issue that the First Day Fight touched on was the impending demolition of some residential areas in Village B due to the road widening project of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). Residents of the UP community joined in the rally as the mob culminated in a program held at Village C to condemn the demolition.

Last December 19, President Duterte signed the law as Republic Act No. 10963 in Malacañang Palace. The TRAIN Law took effect in January 1, implementing its rules and regulations by lowering personal income tax rates and imposing higher excise taxes on daily products, such as fuel, sugary drinks, cars, and more.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue stipulated that more workers would be tax exempted, helping ordinary citizens.

However, according to Senator Bam Aquino, the loss in tax revenue will be offset through higher taxes on other daily commodities, hitting those previously tax exempted. #DefendPressFreedom On January 18, the College of Mass Communication Student Council (CMCSC) led a protest to condemn the attacks on press freedom brought about

by Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) revocation of Rappler’s license to operate.

Close to 200 students, CMC faculty and staff, as well as CMCbased organizations gave their condemnation statements and participated in the demonstration.

A wider Black Friday demonstration was held the next day, January 19, participated by media alliance network Let’s Organize for Democracy (LODI) and Rappler itself.

Student publications from around Metro Manila and members of LODI gathered at Ateneo de Manila University’s Gate 2 to hold a short local program before heading to

Boy Scouts’ Circle with Rappler and other media entities.

Groups participating in the protest called this action as desperation to suppress the capacity of the people to criticize the regime.

Victoria Uy, Chairperson of Anakbayan Maskom, said in an interview: “Ang malayang midya ay marka ng tunay na demokratikong bansa. Alam niya [Duterte] na kapag nakita ng masa ang pamamasista niya at ang pagpapatuloy niya ng mga neoliberal policies, madali siyang mapapatalsik.”

The SEC revoked the license after their investigation, which began December 22, 2016. The Office of the Solicitor General requested a general investigation of online news portal Rappler and the issuance of Philippine depositary receipts between Rappler Holdings Corporation and Omidyar Network. SEC justified the revocation with Rappler’s alleged constitutional violation of the Foreign Equity Restriction in Mass Media provision, requiring 100% Filipino ownership of mass media outlets.

Rappler refuted their claims, saying that they are not mass media entities by definition of the law and holding that the depositary receipts are not indicative of foreign control. However, before a decision has been reached, Rappler has been systematically prevented access to press activities, such as banning Rappler’s CEO Maria Ressa and Malacañang correspondent Pia Rañada from the palace.

#NoToJeepneyPhaseout On February 8, a week after the initial February 1 walkout, students and UP jeepney drivers marched towards the University Avenue and formed a barricade to condemn the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) crackdown on jeepneys in UP Diliman. LTO officers stationed along University Avenue and other jeepney stops to fine drivers for their vehicle operation. Their implementation of “Oplan Tanggal Bulok, Tanggal Usok” was done without prior notice to the UP Diliman administration.

According to Ceasar Sarmiento, president of the Ikot Jeepney Association, a single violation costed around P 3,000 – P 5,000.

“Kahit wala kang violations, hahalungkatin ang jeepney mo para magkaroon ng violation,” Sarmiento added.

This policy also caused inconveniences to students and staff as public transportation inside the campus was paralyzed.

Meanwhile, the DOTr said that the action was necessary for better and safer public transport.

The policy is part of its campaign against smoke belching and modernizing public utility vehicles.

This claim is countered by the protesters as they said that this ‘oplan’ is just gradual ‘phasing out’ of jeepneys from the streets.

According to the transport group PISTON, around 600,000 drivers and 300,000 operators

will be left jobless when the PUV modernization program of the administration be fully implemented. # Wa l ko u t A g a i n s tT y r a n ny a n d Dictatorship On February 23, students once again walked out from their classes to conduct a late morning demonstration and snake rally against the alleged unfolding of President Duterte’s “dictatorial regime”. This was followed by a larger inter-university and intersectional gathering at Morayta to protest Duterte’s administration and its policies.

Groups maintained that the looming dictatorship manifests from Duterte’s Charter Change and Martial Law in Mindanao.

In an interview, Ivy Taroma, Chairperson of the League of Filipino Students – UP Diliman calls for the revival of the collective struggle of students in the 1970 as they fight against the looming dictatorship of Marcos, two years before he declared nationwide Martial Law. The larger walkout was a response to President Duterte’s pronouncements against the earlier February 1 walkout. In a press conference, he threatened UP students with expulsion to be replaced by “bright Lumad students” if they continued to walk out from their classes. Militant groups were quick to slam down the threat. S

ISSUE NO. 3 FEB MAR 2018

NEWS

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UP Admin holds road widening talks with Village B residents, officials DANIEL BRAZA

Representatives from the Office of the Vice Chancellor of Community Affairs (OVCCA), the Office of Campus Relations (OCR), the Housing Office, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the residents of Village B, Barangay UP Campus had a dialogue last January 29 at the Village B Covered Court regarding the current road widening project by the DPWH. Representatives from the contracted engineering firm were also present.

The talks concerned the houses that was confronted with the impromptu demolition due to the current road widening project by the DPWH on one of the roads inside Village B. “‘Wag na po sanang palaparin ang kalsada at sidewalk, ‘wag nang ipasok sa mga tahanan. Wala na pong matitira sa’min,” one resident said during the dialogue.

The OCR reiterating their efforts to negotiate the road size with the Office of the Campus Architect (OCA) and the DPWH Office, both of which rejected.

OCR also said that in earlier talks, the road size had already been reduced from 5.2 meters from the center line to only 4.55 meters.

While some residents complained about not being informed of the demolition beforehand, they were assured that a fund was set up for remuneration for damages. However, the incident was still contrary to incumbent UP President Danilo Concepcion’s statement that no demolitions will happen during his term.

Residents also questioned an agreement between the UP Administration and the Quezon City Local Government Unit showing

the admin’s agreement and support to infrasucture and development projects by the LGU. While the UP Administration confirmed this, they also said it was inconsequential to the current talks, as the project was already under way.

on the condition that residents would be given proper project information, such as the blueprints, and reassurance that minimal damage will be done to the residences. Payment through the Reimbursable Repair Program will also be made available to UP employees.

While renovation and repair funds were made available to the residents, the same cannot be said for those residing on the extensions.

The extensions were illegal, but the administration claimed that some extensions were allowed to stay, even with the knowledge of a future demolition. Since the admin had no prior knowledge of the road widening program, the affected houses were unable to escape the demolition.

While questions regarding relations to the UP Admin’s Master Development Plan were raised Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs Nestor Castro denied any relation between the road widening project and the UP Master Development Plan.

“No plans as of now regarding Village A and B but if plans in the future and it affects UP employees, pananagutan sila ng UP,” Castro said. S

Eventually, the residents and the UP administration reached a consensus that allows the demolition to continue

Fire razes UP Shopping Center RENEE LOUISE CO

The UP Shopping Center was consumed by a fire that started shortly before 7:00 in the morning on Thursday, March 8.

The fire reached up to second alarm at 7:36 AM and was declared put out by Quezon City Fire Marshal FSupt. Manuel Manuel at 8:53 AM, nearly two hours after the fire broke out. According to the Bureau of Fire Protection, around 20 fire trucks from Quezon City responded to the call.

According to eyewitness reports and stall workers, the fire started at the center of the Shopping Center before spreading to the entire building. As of writing, the suspected cause of the fire is the overloading of the circuit located in the ceiling.

The Bureau of Fire Protection reported no casualties, except for a fireman who sustained a minor injury during the clearing.

However, the fire damaged all 48 stalls, most beyond salvation.

As a result, photocopying centers, eateries and other businesses lost their properties and were forced to halt their activities, and many

workers were displaced.

“Pinakakawawa ang mga walang trabaho. Pwede kami [businesses] ‘di mag-trabaho ng ilang weeks, ilang months, but not the workers. ‘Yun ang masakit ‘dun,” the owner of stall 3 ‘Steph’ said.

Students, faculty and staff were similarly devastated with the loss of easy access to the building’s many academicrelated and everyday services.

Mainly, however, the UP community mourned yet again the destruction of another campus landmark and icon.

One important concern Eduard Fernando, Officerin-Charge of the UP Shopping Center Stallholders’ Association, shared with the caucus of stall owners was the plan for an immediate remedy to the problems faced by those heavily impacted by the fire.

At 4:00 PM in the afternoon of the same day, UP Diliman Chancellor Michael Tan met with the stall owners, along with officers from the Business Concessionaires Office (BCO) and the Office of the Campus Architect (OCA) to discuss the administration’s response and plans for the businesses until

the Shopping Center has been rebuilt.

As of this writing, the UP administration will temporarily relocate businesses to scattered available areas around the campus, such as the Acacia Residence Hall, the Vinzons Hall basement, and the Tennis Court. Several photocopying centers will also be temporarily adopted by far-flung colleges, such as the College of Human Kinetics and the Asian Institute of Tourism, to service the students within the area.

The University Student Council had also established the Sagip Shopping Center Coalition to centralize individual, organizational, and council efforts to aid concessionaires. The Office of the Student Regent had also opened a drive for cash and food donations for the stall holders.

The UP Shopping Center is the fourth iconic campus building to be destroyed in a fire in three years, the others being the the CASAA Food Center in June 2015, the Alumni Center or Fonacier Hall in July 2015, and the Faculty Center in April 2016. S

PICKING AT REMAINS: A concessionaire inspects her stall at the burnt UP Shopping Center during the late afternoon with hopes to salvage some of her products.

NEWS

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ISSUE NO. 3 FEB MAR 2018

CSSP holds 3rd Undergraduate Conference MACY MARIE ADDUCUL

KONSENSIYA NG BAYAN: A student presents his academic paper to a table of panelists at the 2018 CSSP Undergraduate Conference.

In celebration of the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy (CSSP) month, the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy Student Council held the third installment of the undergraduate conference where students showcased their respective research papers at Palma Hall 400 on February 19.

The papers covered topics on five areas namely Civic and Political, Social and Community, Gender and Sexuality, Environment and Technology, and Cultural and Historical.

The best presenters and papers for each category during the conference are the following: for the Civic and Political track, Vienne Delmonte from BA Political Science with her paper entitled “Collaboration Amidst Rebellion?

Rebel Group Behavior in PostDisaster Response”; Social and Community Track, Ryan Martinez from BA Sociology with his paper entitled “Never Tell Me the Odds: An Ethnographic study on Skillsbased Gambling”; Gender and Sexuality, Marie Louise Guerrero, Nicah Jonahmae

Narciso, Quiela Mae Salazar, and Mariel Santos from BA and BS Psychology with their paper entitled “Destino: A Qualitative Study on the Perceptions and Experiences of Wives of Filipino Military Soldiers with Deployment”; Environment and Technology, Rieyen Clemente from BA History with the paper “Feeding, Breeding and Raising: the Development of Animal Husbandry 19301957”; and Cultural and Historical, Ileana Cabochan, Mariz Panganiban, and Sophia Pelagio from BA Anthropology with their paper entitled “Pasadya o Pagbenta: A Shift in Pandayan Craft Production from a ‘Traditional’ to a ‘Mass Producing’ Set-up.”

also produce knowledge and information, and as social scientists it is our duty to give back to the communities whatever knowledge we have produced in this research,” she said.

The Dean also shared that the Diliman Review, an academic journal that was formerly handled by CSSP, College of Arts and Letters

(CAL), and College of Science (CS) 35 years ago, will now be dedicated for undergraduate and graduate student research papers.

“We have opened a new opportunity for you to disseminate your research in a written manner. From the oral in the undergraduate conference, you can now elevate it for publication in the

Diliman review,” she said.

Aside from the conference, other activities in line with the CSSP month include the MX. CSSP, which was a gender-sensitive pageant, the KAPPALAKASAN sports fest, which were participated in by all departments and ARETE, which was a Social Sciences Summit for HUMSS Senior High School students. S

CSSP Dean Bernadette Abrera, who served as the keynote speaker in the event, also emphasized in her speech the importance of the undergraduate conference as an avenue for students to enhance their skills in research. She also reminded the students of their responsibilities as social scientists.

“But we are not only researchers who accumulate data and information. We

PH 400: Students and audience members attentively listen to presenters of the Social and Community Studies branch.

ISSUE NO. 3 FEB MAR 2018

FEATURES

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BARRICADING LIBERTY:

CSSP resisting tyrannies through the years TRISHA CAMUYAG & GIANA LARRAURI

On the morning of February 8, 2018 came unexpected news. Members of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) gathered at the University Avenue, barring jeepneys from entering the campus and levying a fine for operating their livelihoods. No warnings were issued before their move.

The day started normally: students were on their way to their classes, professors were preparing their lessons for the day, and life in the university was its usual active monotony.

LTO officers were not there to serve as decorations; they came to the university with one task – to pave way for the administration’s jeepney modernization program, “Tanggal Bulok, Tanggal Usok”.

This program phases out “old” jeepneys for the safety of the people and the environment. Jeepneys going in and out of UP were stopped and confiscated, and the passengers were left without any means travel inside. To “solve” this problem, a mere ten e-jeeps were stationed in the

days where the UP community worked together to ward off military personnel from entering the university.

Recalling history and making comparisons between then and what is happening right now is easy, for there are readily available sources from which people can gather these data. However, knowing is different from living these experiences. What did it feel like to be a student or a professor in the University of the Philippines during Martial Law? Rise of student movement “Third World Studies Center, established in 1977, allowed formation of free thinking” – Dr. Jose, Professor at the Department of History The center of resistance during Martial Law took place in the walls of

BACK IN TIME: The University Avenue and Guillermo Tolentino’s Oblation back in the 1950s.

Photo from the Department of History.

university to serve as the replacement of the “bulok” jeeps.

Later that day, students, together with the jeepney drivers affected by the confiscation, gathered in front of Palma Hall and then marched to Quezon Hall to protest. Hand in hand, the students and the drivers voiced their cry of injustice. Where will jeepney drivers get their daily income, now that their jeepneys were confiscated?

How will the students get to their classes if there are no jeepneys available? If the jeepney modernization program pushed through, and the jeepneys were replaced with e-Jeepneys that no doubt costs more than what a jeepney driver earns in a year, fare hike will surely occur, among other problems.

The event strikes a chord of familiarity.

On that same week 47 years ago, during the morning of February 1, 1971, students and transport workers protested another oil price hike by the Marcos Administration.

A Math professor suddenly fired his shotgun on the gathered crowd, causing the death of one, Pastor Mesina. On that same day, news broke that military tanks were stationed outside the gates of the university. Thus, students, professors, staffs, and transport workers barricaded the university to ward off the military tanks from entering. February 1, 1971 marked the start of what we call now Diliman Commune, the historic nine

Palma Hall. Discussions, debates, and planning of rallies found home and refuge particularly in the basement floor. Leaders of movements, students, faculty, and members of the community gather in the basement to express their thoughts and to form ideas on how to oust the oppressive administration of Marcos. As stated by Dean Abrera, “it was an exciting time to be involved in the nationalist movement.”

UP Likas, Society for History Majors, Physics Society, the Political Science organizations, and other formations also found this venue for free political thinking. Some of these organizations also had connections with underground movements of NPA, CPP, and others. At that time, CSSP was still the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), allowing Social Sciences to expand its views and thus be susceptible for an interdisciplinary form of thinking.

In fact, there was a plan on making a “Wall of Shame” for UP graduates who became cabinet members of Ferdinand Marcos.

This was supposed to be posted in Quezon Hall; however, this remained an idea as the first people power revolution started afterwards. Aside from engaging in these discussions, underground information dissemination also took place in the form of mimeographs. Philippine Collegian (Kule) and other student publications were shut down, along with the repression of press freedom in the whole country.

Pioneers of student activism “Kung hindi tayo ang kikilos, sino ang kikilos? Kung hindi tayo kikibo, sino ang kikibo? Kung hindi ngayon, kailan pa?”

– Ditto Sarmiento Jr. as quoted by Dr. Llanes, Professor at the Department of History Student leaders played an important role in the years when Martial Law was implemented in the country, especially in the university. Individuals such as Abraham “Ditto” Sarmiento Jr., Malou Mangahas, Leandro Alejandro, among others, risked torture and imprisonment to fight for the freedom of the Filipino people under the Marcos regime.

Ditto Sarmiento Jr. died at 27 years old, a year after his seven-month imprisonment during Martial Law. Before his imprisonment, Ditto was the head of The Philippine Collegian. In 1976, Kule published its most famous front page with the quote, “Kung hindi tayo ang kikilos, sino ang kikilos? Kung hindi tayo kikibo, sino ang kikibo? Kung hindi ngayon, kailan pa?” accompanied by an illustration of the Oblation. This blatant opposition to the Marcos regime earned Ditto the ire of said regime, leading to his imprisonment in that same year. Malou Mangahas also became a head of The Philippine Collegian during her days as a student in the university, in 1979. She worked hard to petition the restoration of the student council and she became the first chairperson of the student council after the Marcos administration banned it.

Another student leader who died under Martial Law was Leandro Alejandro. He was a member of The Philippine Collegian in 1979, was a junior fellow at the UP Third World Studies Center from 1981-1983, chairperson of the student council from 1983-1984, and was chosen as a student representative in the UP Board of Regents the following year. He headed a peaceful protest in Mendiola against tuition hike saying, “Now people won’t be afraid to demonstrate at Mendiola”. He died when his car was ambushed near the Bayan headquarters, at 27 years old.

Hampered academic freedom “Government classes…”

agents

also

sit

in

– Dr. Abrera, Dean of the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy Education back in the time of grave repression only tasted a limited amount of freedom. Students and professors were both speculated by government agents that Marcos deployed as eyes inside the campus of Diliman; despite agreements of UP being a “safe haven” far from monitored streets. As a matter of fact, professors were closely being watched on what they teach. Dean Abrera shared that some bold professors were being invited to Camp Crame right after stepping out of their respective classrooms. Hence, it was a period when fear and repression inside the campus was strongly evident, as well as threat of warrantless arrests.

Moreover, Imee and Irene Marcos also studied in UP during the time of their father`s dictatorship. Along with them were bodyguards who were also

HUMAN CHAIN: Students form two adjacent lines to speed up the delivery of chairs for the barricade.

Photo from arkibongbayan.org.

part of those who monitor classrooms carefully by sitting with students in class. Dr. Ricardo Jose was one of their few professors.

Academics were not that rigorous back then because of Martial Law. Students were allowed to participate in rallies, teachers do not check attendance anymore, and the curriculum was conservative. In the old academic calendar, education that time was set in the second semester.

Professors decided not to give a numerical grade for students but instead, “Pass or Fail”. Due to the reason that students were free to join mobilizations, roomto-room (RTR) announcements were evident inside classrooms. Students give speeches and share information on what was happening outside the walls of the campus. A prominent pupil who did this back then was Dr. Ferdinand Llanes, now a embattled professor at the Department of History.

The passing of the Education Act of 1982 was not met with applause and cheers by the students; instead, it was met by protests and calls for repealing said act. This act, passed by the Marcos administration, authorized the cutting of the budget for education and investing the bulk of the country’s budget on military and armament procurement. Up to this day, the Education Act of 1982 is still effective, prompting more tuition hikes and the commercialization of state

education. This blatant disregard for education raised the already significant ire of the student population of the university against the Marcos administration.

Protests and indignation rallies were held in front of Palma Hall.

Bridging barricades Today’s Duterte administration has never been afraid to make pronouncements that uncomfortably mirror Marcos’ during his rule. There are many parallels between what is happening now and what happened then, like increases in taxes, the jeepney phaseout, oil price hikes, and human rights violations. The revocation of license to operate of Rappler is also sitting uncomfortably close to the repression of press freedom during Martial Law. The Diliman Commune is one of the many examples that shows us that even as students, we can still make a remarkable change. In a time where the proliferation of fake news runs rampant and when it is very easy to be apathetic, we must keep our eyes open more than ever, and our minds reminiscent of the past that we should always remember. S “You can forgive, but you cannot forget.”

– Dr. Jose, Professor at the Department of History

ADDRESS: Then UP President Salvador K. Lopez spoke to the gathered students at the AS Steps after a January 26, 1970 rally at Batasan. Photo from UP Archives and First Quarter Storm Library (online).

FEATURES

6 SINAG

How long have you been playing your sport and what made you start playing in the first place?

“I’ve been fencing since Grade 4, but I stopped for 2 years in HS. So technically I’ve been at it for around 8 years. How I got started is a funny story actually. I was just really inspired by the Spiderwick books / movie? The female character kasi, si Mallory, was a fencer so, ayun na-inspire lang ako to try it out. I eventually named my first sword Mallory. What keeps me going siguro is really just my passion and love for the sport, I really like what I’m doing.”

GARI ACOLOLA UP FENCING TEAM SINAG

How long have you been playing your sport and what made you start playing in the first place?

“Actually wala talaga akong plan na maging competitive swimmer. How long? I think 9 years... I started swimming because I have scoliosis, namana ko siya sa mom ko and the doctor said na it’s either na mag-braces ako katulad ng mom ko, or swimming so that maging strong ‘yung muscles ko sa likod and that would prevent yung pag curve ng spinal cord.

As of now effective siya and it really stopped yung pag curve nung spinal cord ko. We looked for a coach, started swimming lessons, competed in competitions, and now I never imagined na I’ll be here representing UP.”

KAYE MAGNAYE UP VARSITY SWIM TEAM SINAG

How has being an athlete shaped your identity as a “konsensiya ng bayan” and as an “atleta ng bayan”?

“I think having teammates from different courses helps me see things from a lot of different perspectives, and so I am able to absorb things not only from my college, but also from the other colleges. And in the same way, I get to apply what I know from my field to our sport and practice din, especially when it comes to things like mental toughness during training.”

LAYA ALAMPAY UP STREETDANCE CLUB

ISSUE NO. 3 FEB MAR 2018

The Other Side of the Court

BERNICE HENSON

The act of balancing the weight of academics and extracurricular activities is akin to walking on a tightrope. The regime of training in the early hours of the morning when the sun has yet to rise, then continuing to class that same day and proceeding, then again to another training program that could last until midnight – and even then they have to study and prepare to do it all over again. This gruelling schedule is the everyday routine of the student-athletes from the College of Social Science and Philosophy.

For some of us, we live by the mentality that, “acads is life” (or lyf in some cases). Most of our free time is spent on academics, whether it is finishing another twelve pages of the newly assigned reading, writing another two to three page essay, or studying the lesson that you barely understood. However, our athletes must also dedicate time in toning their body through physical exercises that would leave anyone exhausted. These athletes do not become as good as they are now overnight; it is a long process that they have committed to improve themselves. Each training session pushes their physical capabilities to the limit in order to conquer any wall stopping them from surpassing expectations. To top it all off, competitions and exams would often coincide with each other. Unfortunately, it sometimes comes down to the student-athlete to decide which to prioritize.

These people are not machines that repeat each task flawlessly and disinterestedly. The stress of upholding the honour and excellence of the school will catch up to them just like any of us. Despite that, these challenges do not stop them at their tracks. Instead, they face it with the combination of strength and intelligence. Their training does not only improve physical abilities, but their mental and emotional state.

To help them with their gruelling grind, they find sources of inspiration in the form of their teammates, family, friends, and in their own selves to motivate them in going forward. Finally, their pure thrill and love of the sport reminds them why they brave through the challenges daily. It is their choice to commit to the lifestyle that they have chosen and it is a choice they do not regret.

We may not always know what’s going on in the lives of our classmates outside the classroom but it is time we give these hard workers recognition for their achievements. In light of the Spirit Month, let us openly recognizes some of our college’s athletes for not only their love for their sport, but also the experiences they went through to be where they are now. To inspire you to be courageous enough to never give up, here are the honorable athletes of CSSP! S

SINAG

How has being an athlete shaped your identity as a “konsensiya ng bayan” and as an “atleta ng bayan”?

“Being an athlete has always been a part of me. As a psych major, a lot of the things I learn and encounter really help me as both an athlete and a person. I find myself using concepts I learn in class, and applying them to trainings and competitions, and also using them to motivate my teammates. My experiences as an athlete also helped me understand some concepts better (especially concepts in sports psychology).”

MYKA DOMINGO UP STREETDANCE CLUB SINAG

SINAG

What is the biggest challenge for you being both a student and an athlete and how do you handle it?

“Just like any student-athlete, the most challenging part of our daily routine is time management.

Given the limited time we have and the many requirements we have to fulfill, it’s really quite a challenge to divide our time and succeed in both aspects of our lives. Nevertheless, I was able to handle this by having the right mindset that I could do it and, more importantly, through prayers.

It was through the right mindset that I was able to determine my priorities, sacrifice my sleep and social life, and battle through the everyday challenges of fatigue (both mentally and physically).

I guess also, I could attribute this to starting young—when I was 6 years old—as dividing my time has consistently been part of my life for 13 years.”

MARINA CACULITAN UP BADMINTON VARSITY TEAM

What is the biggest challenge for you being both a student and an athlete and how do you handle it?

“The biggest challenge I face as a student-athlete is resolving conflict between the two.

When there are exams close to a game, or when there’s class when I should be training, it’s always a tough choice. Other schools and other student-athletes have it easier because their schools are a bit more lenient and give greater considerations for them, while us UP Student-Athletes are treated almost the same as any other UP student. A cut for a missed game is still a cut, and if you have a class that conflicts with training, no choice either. In having to fulfill my responsibilities as both a student and an athlete, I find less difficult because I’ve been balancing both for a long time already.

It’s all about being prepared both mentally and physically to face the many challenges both on the court and in the classroom.”

JOEL ATIENZA UP TENNIS

SINAG

What is the biggest challenge for you being both a student and an athlete and how do you handle it?

“Time management! Even if training just takes up roughly two hours of my mornings, I had to recalibrate my whole lifestyle to the demands of the sport. I had to learn how to budget my time among acads, training, eating, and sticking to my bedtime (ideally 9PM) on weekdays. One time I trained with only four hours of sleep, and I remember feeling out of it that day, and I ended up dislocating my elbow. Suffice it to say, I had to learn the value of sleep the hard way.

ISA FOJAS UP JUDO

SINAG

What is the main source of your inspiration currently to continue being a student-athlete?

“My main source of inspiration is my team. My teammates are some of the most hardworking people I know. Seeing them work to reach our goals of being champions inspires me to just keep swimming.”

KYLA MABUS UP VARSITY SWIM TEAM SINAG

What is the main source of your inspiration currently to continue being a student-athlete?

“I guess my number one inspiration is the sport itself and the fun it brings to my life. Sobrang love ko kasi mag-tennis, so I love to train, play, and compete, even if I lose a lot. Also, I am just so grateful to God for leading me to the student-athlete path… God gives me the strength and determination to just keep improving, and He has graciously given me good health and a strong body to get through tough training.”

IANA TAN UP TENNIS

ISSUE NO. 3 FEB MAR 2018

FEATURES

7

SINAG SHINES ON ITS GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY AL RAPOSAS

“The truth has a million faces, but there is only one truth.” (Hermann Hesse) The 1960s witnessed a surge of student movements catching up with a world grappled by the Cold War. The Philippines was no exception. One of the most potent instruments of the student body would be the media, which they would use in good effect. As for the College of Arts and Sciences, one of the largest colleges in the University of the Philippines, its students found a suitable voice with Sinag Publications. Also known as Sinag, the name was derived from a combination of two other terms, Sining (Arts) and Agham (Sciences). Sinag itself means “ray” or “beam,” which is likely to intend that it will bring the light of truth in the seemingly dark atmosphere of lies hounding the university and the country. Founded on 19 December 1968 as the official student publication of CAS, Sinag figured as one of the most ardent supporters of the student movement in the Philippines.

Meanwhile, demonstrations against the administration reached its peak with the so-called First Quarter Storm (26 January to 17 March 1970).

In the face of a weakening economy, increasing student activism, and rising rebellions, Filipino President Ferdinand Marcos declared martial law on 23 September 1972. Elements of the Filipino military were quick to move. Student organizations and councils were dissolved, and student publications were shut down. Sinag was not spared from the campaign against the media.

However, Sinag would continue as part of the “mosquito press” or “alternative press” as early as 1975.

Since the mosquito press were allowed to operate minimal print runs only, limited copies of student publications were distributed through avant-garde ways. One of these would be the use of animals, particularly cats, to carry the papers like some sort of collars or ornaments. Nevertheless, Sinag was riddled with multiple challenges, and the foremost of these issues would be funding. Since it is a

student publication, it is entirely funded by student contributions.

In 1978, a rate of three pesos per student was implemented, but it was not enough to keep Sinag glowing.

It was restored in 1982, a year after the official lifting of martial law in the Philippines. On 26 October 1983, CAS was split into three colleges, earning them the moniker “tricollege.” One of them would be the College of Social Sciences and Philosophy (CSSP), which houses Sinag to this day. To denote this change, the publication also adopted the name Sinag CSSP. Another college produced from the division was the College of Science, and it came out with a publication called Sinag Agham, evidently carrying the name of the old publication.

Another restoration would take place in 1988, this time with a significant hike in its budget. Student contributions were increased to 30 pesos each. With the indispensable support of the student body, Sinag would continue in operation. It has even introduced parody newspapers like Sinangag (fried rice) in 1995,

and Singa (act of blowing the nose) in 2008 to diversify its array of activities. It was also by this time that Sinag introduced the use of baybayin, the ancient Filipino script. Created in the likeness of Sinag, these were published in December, the anniversary month of the publication. Meanwhile, the current form of Sinag dates back to yet another restoration in 2015, ending three years of inactivity.

Among personalities of note who served through Sinag include Benjamin Pimentel, Jr. (EIC, 19821983), Marichu Lambino (EIC, 19831984), and Maria Doris Dumlao (EIC, 1993-1995). All of them, bearing their Sinag experiences, eventually wrote for the Philippine Daily Inquirer and continued the path of writing for the people. Others have take different roads. For instance, Juan Paolo Colet (EIC, 1998-1999) had become director of China Bank Capital Corporation, while Ryan Hartzell Balisacan (EIC, 2003-2004) had become prosecution officer at the Office of the Ombudsman. While only permitted to present a few

examples, the humans of Sinag show that there are more ways than one to serve all the people, even beyond their student years. The youth today will not remain dormant. They will rise up to become the leaders of tomorrow.

Five decades of service had Sinag dedicated and endured. Sinag shines on its golden anniversary this year, imprinting distinguishing marks from the national to the personal level. Carrying the words omnia vincit veritas (truth conquers all), a motto adopted in 2001, Sinag has heralded the light of truth to every student, and to every Filipino. As we enter our 50th year, we fervently hope for more opportunities to continually carry these words in the future. In the words of W. Somerset Maugham, “We do not write because we want to. We write because we have to.” S

LITERARY

8

Books before hoes was his mantra. It didn’t have the same ring to it as its source; not that it mattered to him.

This was the first time I saw him giggling, the closest he had come to some semblance of kilig. From our place in the line, we could spot his idol seated in the middle of a panel of authors signing their books. His feet were shifting in place, his head bobbing side to side, complaining about the march of heads in front of him, saying, How much longer? This man, this man I had to glance up at—right now he seemed more like a child.

I’m holding a crumpled scroll of paper and reading its contents to him, and he repeats after me. I correct him each time his tongue falls off balance. He’s nervous, the poor thing. It was his love letter—he’d defend himself, say it was fanmail, but I knew it was nothing but. It was an outpouring the girls that crushed on him would rather like to hear. We’re three heads closer now.

A handsome guy strolls by, the tan of his skin stands out against the white tarpaulin covering the bookstore glass. I stare at him. My friend notices. He snaps me out of it. What gives? I tell him. Though I conceded that my neck almost did a 180 tracking the tanned dude, that was nothing compared to how he craned his head above the crowd to catch a glimpse of his idol.

I’m gay and I’d classify that as board-certified homo.

He even revels in the fact that his idol’s name is a mere one letter excess of his name—and though it had to be reshuffled further to match his, that was a trifling matter. I imagine his daydreams consisted of plucking that stray letter out and reshuffling the others endlessly until he and his idol were one. Except that there was always that pesky ‘D’ between them. Anyways, it’s our turn now.

It takes him a few seconds to step forward so I nudge him on. He places the book gently in front of his man, and turns the page to where he wants it signed, handing out instructions along the way. Then he begins his memorised spiel.

His idol droops into an uncomfortable look, glancing at me occasionally as if pleading for rescue. It is all I can do to smile at him apologetically, my shoulders shrugging to say, I’m sorry, he can’t be helped.

After the autograph is signed, he shakes his man’s hand. He takes an embarrassingly long time. Before numbers are exchanged, I scoop my arm under his elbow and we both hightail it out of there.

“What was that for?” He asks me later at Jollibee. A white moustache has coated the area above his upper lip, courtesy of his sundae.

“You were being a kid again and embarrassing me,” I tell him.

We both laugh a little and he resumes fawning over his man.

Isn’t he lovely; positively, undeniably lovely? I roll my eyes.

He was just revving up.

As I sat there listening to his impromptu love poem, I thought of the girls who had confessed to me that they had caught feelings for him. I thought of how they would rather be in my place, sitting across from him; nevermind that he was heart-eyes blushing over another man, if it meant hearing his voice. Or maybe they’d prefer his man’s seat at the bookstore, having a letter read to them. What did they see in him? I squinted hard for an answer. Denise at the college paper, Raven at our organization, Michelle, Beth, Kristina, Joanna, Nina, and Darla. All girls he had no time or feelings for because for him, I guess, no spine was sturdier than a book’s. No doubt one of them had curled up and cried when he set it straight: “Sorry”.

Not that it mattered to him.

B O O K S T O R E B LU E S SEAN APOSTOL

ISSUE NO. 3 FEB MAR 2018

LITERARY

ISSUE NO. 3 FEB MAR 2018

Memento Mori E J B O L ATA

9

Paglisan sa Hangin E J B O L ATA

Dalandaneng namamahinga sa

Hangin na lamang

ibabaw ng tisyu ng Starbucks,

ang pumalit sa nawalay

nakatitik sa pink ang tula ng pag-ibig.

Isang piga.

mong mga daliring nakatagpo ng santuwaryo sa aking palad.

Hangin ang aking pinintahan

Sumirit ang katas, naglawa

ng mabibigat na yabag

sa kalatas. Tubog

ng aking mga paa,

ang salita sa tubig.

kumakatok sa tila ipininid na kalsadang-pinto.

Hangin ang sumipol at naglapat ng melodiya sa ritmo ng mga yabag.

Nagkanlong ng musikang hangin din ang maghahatid sa mahimbing mong pananaginip.

OPINION

10

ISSUE NO. 3 FEB MAR 2018

EDITORIAL

THE MAKINGS OF A DICTATORSHIP SINAG

T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F C S S P 2017 - 2018

RENEE LOUISE CO EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

DANIEL BRAZA ASSOCIATE EDITOR

ENRIQUE NAVERA

MANAGING EDITOR

SEAN APOSTOL LITERARY EDITOR

GIANA LARRAURI FEEATURES EDITOR

SOFIA VALERA GRAPHICS HEAD

HERBY ESMERALDA PHOTOGRAPHY HEAD

NIKKA DE TORRES LAYOUT HEAD

RYAN MARTINEZ BUSINESS MANAGER

One of the unquestionable indicators of a country’s freedom is how much people are allowed to speak their mind. It is one of the basest civil rights of humans, protected and enshrined in bills of rights, constitutions, and founding documents.

The freedom of expression is one of the building blocks of democratic values shared by most of the world today; the healthy and critical proliferation of thought enables right ideas to arise, and from it comes greater values: liberty, equality, and justice.

As such, the media constantly demonstrates the ideal of this value.

The media actively exercises this right to free expression as their job to report the truth is built upon this basic right. The press, in effect, becomes the embodiment of this right, and to oppress them means to oppress the very right they embody.

A greater extension of the value provides the conception of the freedom of the press, which provides the media and journalists the independence and freedom to do their duties. They serve as the fourth estate, bridging the information gap between

governing bodies and citizens, and as the watchdog of the government, observing and scrutinizing their activities to ensure the proper use of their power. Freedom of the press is so valued because democracy thrives in the complete and accurate two-way deliverance of information to and from the government and its citizens. Attempts to oppress them are attempts tips the balance of powers away from the people, opening the possibilities of abuse.

The Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) so-far successful attempts to try to halt the operations of online news portal Rappler is indicative of this oppression. The SEC called upon the constitution on its attempt to shut down Rappler, accusing it of being under the influence of Omidyar Network. Rappler has since denied these allegations, saying that while they were receiving funding from them, they were not influenced by them at all in terms of content. Since the suspension of their license, events had progressed: Omidyar Network has since moved the money to fourteen Rappler managers, prompting the Bureau of Internal Revenue to file a case for tax evasion

against them; the National Bureau of Investigation similarly revived a dismissed libel case, which have unconstitutional legal details.

The legalities are a separate matter, however. What is to be considered dangerous are the implications of the government’s move. Rappler has been known to have an anti-administration reputation on social media due to the hasty and often misrepresented online scrutiny it gets when posting articles criticizing the government.

It has also gotten into squabbles with the infamous social media blogger Margaux “Mocha” Uson regarding its stance pertaining to the actions of the Duterte administration.

This is what gives SEC’s act of pursuing Rappler’s closure a political color. This now raises the question: are the media outlets who are critical of the current administration now all in danger of censorship or closure?

How far will the government go to silence them? This event has already set the prospect of heavy media censorship in the Philippines not too far off from the horizon, having sent the unsaid message that if the government doesn’t like what you

are saying, they will come after you.

This should not be so. After all, this is what democracies are about: the freedom for ideas to contend and for the best ideas to come out on top. This way, we are ensured that society has, firstly, options to choose when decision-making comes, and lastly, that society will choose the best option by virtue of the deliberative nature of democracies. Media embodies that right, and they exercise that right in the noblest of ways: by delivering truth and fair reporting, by sharing stories to hold parties accountable, and by using it to serve the people.

If the media are not safe, what then of the people? All the more that people are in danger when they voice dissent, and when dissent is absent, it is the makings of a dictatorship. A leader who does not listen to those who disagree with him might move fast, but he is in danger of making a lot of mistakes.

Given the ambitious nature of our current administration, and all the fundamental changes they are introducing to the nation, it would be a horror for them to make a mistake. S

JETHRO CAMARA

WEB ADMINISTRATOR

SINAG was established in 1968 in a time

when Philippine democracy was facing its biggest challenge since independence. The students of the College of Arts and Sciences deemed the need for an avenue to speak their critical minds and take a stand through an official student publication. Its name is portmanteau os SINing and AGham. Also meaning ‘a ray of light’ in Filipino, its name represents the paper as a source of light, especially in the dark times during which it was founded. While the dictatorship has fallen, the Philippines never left the darkness of social injustice and oppression. Thus, SINAG continues to strive to provide light that we may one day live in the light of true freedom.

MEMBER

UP SOLIDARIDAD

csspsinag@gmail.com csspsinag.wordpress.com (02) 981 8500 loc. 2479 fb.com/CSSPSINAG @ sinag_cssp SINAG Office, 1/F Palma Hall, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, 1101

ISSUE NO. 3 FEB MAR 2018

OPINION

11

WHY UP SHOULD GROW WITH RALLIES RENEE LOUISE CO

The common trope UP is infamous for is its status as “the bastion of student activism” – heralded by academics eager for debate and study, and warned forebodingly by parents seemingly allergic to political stances. However, unlike what many social media trolls would have you believe, the harshest critics of the movement – and even the act of protesting itself – comes not from government or outside entities, but from within its own halls and children.

Atty. Oscar Franklin Tan, an alumnus of the UP College of Law, wrote in his Inquirer column “Sisyphus’ Lament” his perceived decay of activism as an intellectual practice and an effective methodology of change. He calls for UP students to “evolve from 70s methods”, calling rallies “superficial and intellectually bankrupt” and mere “instant gratification”, and instead opt for more effective and innovative means that are well-suited for “citizens of a modern democracy.” In short, Tan discredits rallying as simplification of complex ideas and proposes a social media-reliant model to achieve change.

What the author does not realize is that his column reeks of privilege by insisting on an form of protest only intellectuals can engage in, which is accessible, digestible, and acceptable only to his demographic.

Worse than how Cleve Arguelles misconstrues the movement as simply “fashionable,” Tan misrepresents the goal of rallies as simply Facebook or Instagram fodder. It seems like he gained his knowledge of rallies from social media posts and newsbits, especially those who simply criticize without aim. By calling them “intellectually bankrupt,” he is unaware of the fieldwork activists do to reach the calls that are produced in

“

see the success of mass demonstrations in deposing despots and overturning policies. 2010’s Arab Spring shows that social media and mass movements worked together to raise awareness of the brutality of their dictatorial regimes and to mobilize tangible action to dispose of the powers that enable such. While the dissemination of information greatly assisted in their democratization, it is their revolutions that ultimately allowed

HIS COLUMN REEKS OF PRIVILEGE BY INSISTING ON AN FORM OF PROTEST ONLY INTELLECTUALS CAN ENGAGE IN, WHICH IS ACCESSIBLE, DIGESTIBLE, AND ACCEPTABLE ONLY TO HIS DEMOGRAPHIC.

placards. Armchair politics can only do so much without the extensive research and corrective measures present movements employ to ensure that sectors and parties are correctly represented. Contrary to his claims that rallies are “trivialized”, he ironically trivializes the act itself.

Aside from that, his basic assumption that rallies do not effectuate change is mistaken. Despite his callbacks to the 70s, one does need to look too far to

”

it to happen.

In contrary, he elevates information dissemination as the superior method by which activists should fight, as if calls for accountability and demands for change must only be fought in the realm of knowledge. Tan cites numerous examples of “intelligent, dignified responses” and praises the possibility of “neutral, authoritative opinions” in awakening change.

Diverse and critical analyses through various means are always welcome and helpful. However, he assumes that correct information would translate into inclusive policies and just governance that rallies fight for. Even in his most ideal scenario, he believes that government is simply a delegate for popular demand, which, as any introductory course to political science would teach you, is never the case. Despite the numerous evidences of the executive using their agency to railroad their agenda and disregard the opinions of the masses, he insists on mere fact checks to serve as corrective measures for government. In sum, Tan’s solutions are reactionary in nature and has no real drive for social change. As our associate editor said in Twitter, he is not coming “from a desire to change, but from a desire to comment.”

At the very core, however, Tan simply scorns the “unintellectual” manner by which rallies advocate their demands.

Like many, he takes one look at the angry shouts and calls it irrational. Like many, he believes that change comes from within the system, through cold and calm dialogue, through practices of intellectualism and diplomacy. Should the “iskolar ng bayan” use his proposal as their main method to combat the ills of society, they will alienate more than half of their population.

He is unapologetically coming from a position of intellectual ascendancy, unaware of the true plights of the people. It is either a complex farce or a failing of empathy to stay unperturbed and complacent while millions of fellow citizens continually suffer from unfair policies. At their basic premise, rallies are about awareness: they march, raise placards calling and demanding for change, and gather en masse at busy roads, disrupting the illusion of the peaceful monotonous everyday grind of Filipinos.

His column is an insult to the social sciences. He sings an ode to intellectualism without critical thinking. Tan’s column is representative of everything the social sciences should strive against: the armchair academic. As the konsensiya ng bayan, it is not only our collective duty to identify the wrongs of society and know how we can best improve the lives of the people, but to fight with them. In an age of technological advancement, rallies change in face, strategy, and form.

However, the fundamentals are basically the same: numbers against all odds, and the voice of the popular demand against systemic abuses. We must not underestimate the power of the people, even as the administration continuously belittles it. Activism will evolve, and so must we. S

ABANTE, BABAE

A female farmer from the Northern Samar Small Farmers’ Association (NSSFA) stands her ground in the February 23 protest, calling for the end of militarization activities in the provinces.

SPORTS

TroPol beats buzzer to trounce PhiGeon in basketball championship DANIEL BRAZA

In a dramatic finish, TroPol (Departments of Anthropology and Political Science) pulled out a last second buzzer beater to win the championship game against PhiGeon (Departments of Philosophy and Geography), scoring 5148 in this year’s KAPPalakasan, CSSP’s annual sportsfest.

After beating PsychLingg (Departments of Psychology and Linguistics) by 22 points in the earlier semi-finals matchup, TroPol went on to face a veteran PhiGeon team that won the KAPPalakasan Basketball Tournament the year prior. However, TroPol had an advantage as they already scored a win against PhiGeon in their earlier match up in the round robin.

The game was close throughout the first three quarters, with neither side taking or maintaining more than a 5-point lead. The second half started with a PhiGeon lead, and TroPol continuously chased them with frequent threes and midrange bombs.

However, TroPol never overtook them.

They also took a heavy blow when starting forward Anthony Capuyan suffered an ankle sprain while landing from a rebound attempt.

The fourth quarter proved to be a grit match as both sides played extremely physical defense. Neither side scored much and was actually scoreless for most of the final minutes. Both sides were unafraid to play tight defense, with TroPol excelling

in defending the paint and PhiGeon keeping up with their physical perimeter defense. With TroPol having a two point lead after a brief run spurred by TroPol’s backcourt, Ian Javier from PhiGeon went 2/3 at the free throw line to tie the game.

The last possession of the game went to Junee Cruz, who ran through a double ball screen which PhiGeon trapped and then passing the ball to an open Kiel Bayotas at the top of the three point line, who sunk the game winning basket for TroPol.

Team captain Jerome Leano said this to his players before the game: “Napakalaking accomplishment na nandito tayo sa finals. It’s one of the farthest both departments have ever gotten, and we should be proud.”

This was the only championship that the Departments of Political Science and Anthropology won in this year’s KAPPALAKASAN, and the first basketball championship for both teams. S

This was also a big turnaround for TroPol as they lost their very first game of the tournament in a blowout loss to PsychLingg.

PsychLingg dominates board, field, and e-sports games in KAPPALAKASAN Opening DANIEL BRAZA

Consistent play was shown by the team PsychLingg (Departments of Psychology and Linguistics) in the opening board games, Ultimate Frisbee, Amazing Race, and DOTA 2 of KAPPalakasan Sportsfest this last month of February.

On the board games, the rankings are as such:

SUNGKA

CHESS

GAME OF THE GENERALS

1st

PsychLingg

1st

PsychLingg

1st

PsychLingg

2nd

KasSocio

2nd

KasSocio

2nd

PhiGeon

3rd

TroPol

3rd

PhiGeon

3rd

KasSocio

4th

PhiGeon

4th

TroPol

4th

TroPol CHECKMATE: Players from teams PhiGeon and KasSocio battle for KAPPalakasan Sportsfest 2018's Chess category held at Palma Hall room 207 last February 6.

For the e-sports category and field games, here are the rankings:

DOTA 2

AMAZING RACE

ULTIMATE FRISBEE

1st

PhiGeon

1st

PsychLingg

1st

PsychLingg

2nd

PsychLingg

2nd

KasSocio

2nd

TroPol

3rd

TroPol

3rd

TroPol

3rd

PhiGeon

4th

KasSocio

4th

PhiGeon

4th

KasSocio

PsychLingg affirmed its dominance by garnering five championships and one second placer, giving them an early lead in the overall KAPPalakasan SportsFest scoring. S

WELL PLAYED: CSSP majors gather to play DOTA 2 and defend their teams at Mineski Infinity Maginhawa last February 12.

(Photo from KAPPalakasan 2018 Team)