L'ECRIVAIN Vol 3 Issue 4

Thursday, December 4, 2014

Vol 3. Issue 4 |

Br. Dennis Magbanua presents the diplomas to the graduating students of the 171st commencement activities in behalf of Br. Ricky Laguda FSC. Taken by Samuel Wang.

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L’ecrivain Official

L’ECRIVAIN

DLSU embraces calendar shift TRO lifted- University Student Gov’t Plebiscite talks to continue by: Reyna C. Custodio After more than two hours of exchanging statements and arguments, the University Student Government (USG) Judiciary branch had decided to lift the Temporary Restraining Order (T.R.O.) filled against the revision and implementation of the

USG Constitution.

According to the magistrates in the hearing held last November 10, 2014 at the USG Conference Room, that though the petitioners questioned the constitutionality of the plebiscite, they were not able to present significant arguments that should have covered the issue, hence the decision to lift the restraining order.

by: Kimi O. Suobiron

In alignment with the ASEAN economic integration, De La Salle University (DLSU) has announced plans to adjust the opening of classes for school year 2015-2016.

Last October 29, a Town Hall Meeting was held at the Central Plaza were the proposed plans and revisions in TRO LIFTED/A8

DLSU EMBRACES/A8

OVER/A8

DLSU and AdMU Korean students bag championship in Golden Bell competition

by: Kimi O. Suobiron

by: Woome Hyun

DLSU holds their annual fire drill wherein students are guided by the guards in evacuating the buildings. CREDIT - Martin San Diego

WHAT’S INSIDE

SUBZERO: ASPIRE

Organizations ice over Liquid Pool and Lounge / A2

Batch 114

takes the spotlight / A5

by: Kimi O. Suobiron

The decision to implement the change in this calendar accommodates to the fact that DLSU can stay with developments in the region. This revision permits DLSU to increase its marketability and to also contribute to the university’s aim of pushing for internationalization.

With CHED emphasizing that the academic that the school calendar shift is not for all, DLSU still settled to push through with the shift along with other universities such as University of the Philippines, Ateneo de Manila University and the University of Santo Tomas. Nevertheless, the difference lies within DLSU following a trimestral system. The first trimester will begin on the last week of August instead of May, which before has caused Lasallians to complain about but also getting used to having a short summer vacation as compared to the other schools as a result of having a trimestral system.

According to De La Salle University’s President and Chancellor, Br. Ricardo Laguda, this new calendar has several advantages such as easier international mobility for students and faculty,

Fire drill alarms professors and students in Bro. Andrew Bldg.

Last October 29, 2014, an unannounced fire drill took place in the Br. Andrew Gonzalez Building.

At approximately 10:00 in the morning, a fire alarm went off making a lot of unaware students and professors panic thinking a real fire occurred.

Fire and earthquake drills are usually announced the day before it actually takes place, which gave everyone the wrong idea FIRE DRILL/A8

Over 1000 Lasallians march PICC for 171st Commencement Exercises De La Salle University’s 171st Commencement Exercises were held last October 11, at the Philippine International Convention Center.

After almost two months of waiting since the end of this school year’s first term, the first batch of SY 20142015 graduates marched in this term’s graduation rites. A total of 1,283 students attended the 171st Commencement Exercises, 14 were included in the Jose Rizal Honors Society, graduated as Cum Laude, and 24 as Magna Cum Laude and four gloriously graduating as Summa Cum Laude.

Students informed about the possible changes

A COMELEC personnel is assigned at each voting area to check the student’s I.D number and to answer questions about the voting process for the USG Plebiscite. Taken by Jilliane Gomez

www.lecrivain.com

Paddlers Bag Double Championship / A11

Eat, Pray, Love: The Research of Happiness / A12

In a fierce competition of 120 participants, six students from De La Salle University (DLSU) became co-winners with Ateneo de Manila (AdMU) at the final round of the Golden Bell Competition last September 21, 2014 at Amazing Show, Manila Film Centre, Pasay.

Golden Bell Competition is a quiz show program, which is famously known in Korea as “Challenge, Golden Bell”, discerning the most outstanding student among 100 high school contestants. The game show was first televised on September 3rd, 1999 and it is still broadcasted on Korean television today.

The competition was conducted by the Korean Students Association in the Philippines, more commonly known as KSAP. The aim of bringing the Golden Bell Competition here in the country is to promote fraternity among the Korean students in the PhilDLSU AND ADMU/A8

L’ ECRIVAIN

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NEWS

Thursday, December 4, 2014

SUB-ZERO: ASPIRE organizations ice over Liquid Pool and Lounge by: Woome Hyun

The attendees enjoying the music while dancing and playing with the foam all throughout the night. CREDIT- ASPIRE

DLSU welcomes more than 30 foreign exchange students by: Camille Hercouet DLSU’s foreign exchange student program allows students from different countries to continue their studies in the Philippines for four to six months.

This year, the countries involved in the program are Germany, France, Austria, Finland, Korea and Japan making it more internationalized and larger in number as compared to the previous years. The exchange students are taking up courses under engineering, education, business, marketing and communication that are offered in La Salle but at the same time can be credited in their respective universities.

The program officially started last September 2, 2014 with an orientation held at the Henry Sy Building.

Sir Roedel Masilungan introduced the Philippines by familiarizing them with the culture and practice and also tips on how to survive living in Manila. He also discussed about the most important things to know about DLSU. After the orientation, the students were given the chance to choose their courses adding up to an average of 10-15 units.

The succeeding week marked the formal start of the exchange students as Lasallians.

The international office is in charge of the students VISA, healthcare needs and residence so that there will be no inconvenience experienced while the foreigners are living in the Philippines. Aside from the service and education offered by the

DLSU, the program also organized a Manila Tour for the exchange students, taking them to prominent and historical places in Manila.

“I discovered a new culture which I find fascinating! I visited a few places here that are beautiful,” Alice Thibault, a French foreign exchange student shared.

For most of the exchange students, the program will officially conclude as soon as the term ends and they will go back to their countries depending on how many months they are appointed to stay.

“This program gave me the opportunity to discover a new way of studying and to improve my English in different situations. Meeting Filipinos and other foreigners made me learn about their culture and to also share mine, which helped me to be more open-minded,” Emilie Boucly, also a French exchange student, said.

MANILA “Sub-Zero: The ASPIRE Party 2014” was held last November 7 at the Liquid Pool and Lounge, Manila Ocean Park.

“Sub-Zero” was organized

by De La Salle University’s ASPIRE cluster, which is a mix of all the exclusive special interest and socio-civic organizations namely AIESEC, ENGLICOM, LSCS, MooMedia, Outdoor Club, ROTARACT, UNISTO, UNITED and Writer’s Guild.

These associations held one of the biggest and most exciting parties of the year entitled “Sub-Zero” and it was the highlight event ASPIRE Week.

The slogan of the party was, “No matter how chilly the November wind is, you will surely have fun and smile as you bond with your friends and meet news ones and enjoy a pool party like no other.”

With the ticket price only at 250 pesos, the party was open for everyone especially for students who just wanted to clear their minds, escape the stress and have fun.

During the party, mini contests were conducted and one of these was the search for Mr. And Mrs. ASPIRE 2014. The contest involved modeling and question

and answer portions which served as grounds for the judges’ decisions.

Nico de Vera and Julienne Tejada, both students of the Bro. Andrew Gonzales College of Education (BAGCED) won the titles of Mr. and Mrs. ASPIRE respectively, both coming from Union of Students Inspired Towards Education (UNITED).

Aside from the Mr. and Ms. ASPIRE titles, there were five more special awards that were given at the event. The best male and female dancer awards were given to Leo Ocampos Po from UNISTO and Julian Lim from MooMedia.

Keanu Dy and Ish Dayto from AIESEC won for Best Couple Photo, Carlo Uy Lim from MooMedia was titled as Mr. Blackwater and Jasmine Kim from UNISTO as Ms. Careline.

Jilliane Gomez, an attendee from UNITED said, “Sub-Zero is something different from the other parties before since there was foam and a pool wherein we could swim after. Also, the music was really great to dance with.”

It was entirely a successful event that lived up to its slogan with cooperation and efforts coming from different organizations of DLSU.

BAG-CED organizations throw Halloween Bash by: Kimi O. Suobiron

In line with Halloween, the Bro. Andrew Gonzales College of Education (BAG-CED) organizations held a Halloween-themed general assembly last October 30, 2014.

The event took place in Room 212 of the Mutien Marie Building from 6:00 to 8:00 PM and was organized by Union of Students Inspired Towards Education (UNITED), EDGE12, EDGE13, EDGE14 and College Government of Education (CGE).

Members from different organizations came with their dif-

ferent, and some very unique, costumes such as wolves, The Sims, zombies, baristas, and superheroes, making the event turn out as very vibrant one.

“I didn’t expect it to be so fun,” noted Julienne Tejada, an Early Childhood Education student, “everyone was dressed up uniquely!”

The opening remarks was led by the College of Education president, Monique Ungco, which marked the official commencement of the event. Since not everyone was acquainted with each other, an icebreaker – Animal Sound Grouping – was BAG-CED/A9

Gov’t: “Appropriate timing” on LRT-MRT fare hike by: Reyna C. Custodio “Fare hike increase on Light Rail Transit (LRT) - Metro Rail Transit (MRT) will still push through but there is no specific date yet on when the fare increase will take effect” said presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda.

According to the Malacañang, the government is only waiting for the “appropriate timing” to implement the fare increase.

Transit System Issues Ever since the construction of Manila Light Rail

Transit System, the government has continually been subsidizing its fares for its passengers. Though the fare hike had been approved since 2011, it still has not been implemented due to the strong public opposition.

Many passengers complained of the long lines in buying tickets, cleanliness of the stations, faulty trains and many more.

“It is kind of more dangerous now to ride the train because of some mechanical mishaps that has happened.

Just a couple of months ago, many people were hurt due to a technical problem in

the Taft Station” said Paolo, a third year college student at the De La Salle University.

Just last August, a faulty MRT train crashed into a dead end barricade at the Taft Station, injuring dozens of passengers and some pedestrians who were hit by debris, concrete, and glass.

According to Miguel Sagcal, Spokesman of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), “The derailed train initially stalled between the Magallanes and Taft stations and, following railway SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures), had to be pushed

by the next oncoming train.

The two trains were coupled or linked together, but along the way, this coupling disconnected. This caused the derailed train to go past the Taft platform.”

It resumed operations just a couple of hours after the incident.

Is the Fare Hike Fair?

The government has been shouldering more than half of what the passengers are paying for. Without subsidies, the estimated cost of a single trip is around P60. The BAG-CED/A9

Gab Fornier, who won the Best in Costume award; enjoying his second plate of the food provided during the event. Taken by Jilliane Gomez

L’ ECRIVAIN

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NEWS Policy decision to be presented to the public as soon as possible- CHEd Thursday, December 4, 2014

by: Reyna C. Custodio The Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) still has yet to decide position on Filipino as a subject in the college curriculum.

According to the official statement released by CHEd, the Technical Panel on General Education (TPGE) is still in the process of studying the challenges that may arise and is still working out alternative solutions with the help of the concerned agencies.

“The TPGE will discuss the results of the public consultation including position papers, feedback from the different stakeholders and results of internal consultation conducted by the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), after which, the TPGE will submit its recommendation to the CHEd commission en

banc for policy decision and presented to the public at the soonest possible time.” CHEd said.

A released CHEd Memorandum (CMO) No, 20 Series of 2013 or “The General Education Curriculum: Holistic Understandings, Intellectual and Civic Competencies” has caused an outrage amongst students, educators, and linguists because of the aimed removal of Filipino in the General Education Curriculum (GEC) by 2016 and that the teaching of Filipino in the college level will be limited to those who are majoring in the fields of Filipino.

Subjects in the new GEC has been reduced from 63 units (for humanities and social science majors) or 51 units (for science, engineering and math majors) to 36 units for all students. “The POLICY/A9

Teachers and students write their thoughts on a freedom tarpaulin about the removal of Filipino subjects at the college curriculum. CREDIT-Rappler

Vongfong causes more fear than harm in the Philippines by: Emilie Boucly Vongfong, a category 5 super typhoon, strikes the Philippines last October.

Although PAGASA has declared that the storm will spare the Philippines from its rage, it was still detected within the country’s territory with relentless rains and strong winds.

Vongfong, also known as Ompong in the Philippines, had an impact on the country by affecting the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ICZ), bringing flash floods in parts of Visayas and Mindanao. Luzon also experienced northeasterly winds from VONGFONG/A9

The super typhoon VONGFONG strikes Manila last October causing the trees fall due to its strong winds. CREDIT- BBC

Ebola virus strikes terror in West Africa by: Emilie Boucly

Ebola, a virus discovered in 1976, is having an extreme epidemic occurring this year, after 38 years. With its biggest outbreak in West Africa taking place recently, fear, panic and confusion in neighbors as well as other countries around the globe are exponentially increasing.

According to World Health Organization (WHO), the first known infection occurred in Guinea in 2013, and then spread to Liberia, where the virus has the largest number of victims. The situation, therefore very worrying, has become alarming in Septem-

ber 2014, when the virus, for the first time, has spread out of Africa.

This is the first time that the Ebola virus is rampant in urban areas. The population density facilitates transmission and could be the major reason for the rapid spread of the current epidemic. Faster than the virus, the fear of obtaining it has all over the world.

It was not until August 2014, that WHO calls a “Public health emergency of global reach” epidemic.

Since the beginning of the epidemic, the fight against it seems inadequate and uncoordinated. And after cases

of infection with the Ebola virus from a Spanish nursing assistant and two American nurses, the question of the preparation of nursing staff in hospitals arises.

WHO pointed out that “people treated quickly can heal”. In health centers patients can receive care and treatment support throughout the course of the disease, but today, there is no vaccine or certified drugs to fight against Ebola.

“It counts to take several precautions,” a student of DLSU commented. “It’s better to be safe than sorry.”

Governments try to protect their inhabitants with

countries having different approach on how to avoid the epidemic happening. The warning system launched in many countries has been strengthened recently, and some countries, such as France, the United States of America, United Kingdom, and Germany set up a Control & Air flights from Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone.

Reception and information centers are positioned, with the nursing staff trained and tested if ever a crisis transpires. Some countries like Liberia and Sierra Leone are closing their borders, and also reducing mass meeting.

Fortunately, the Phil-

The world is now on an alert for the Ebola virus causing a number of deaths all over the world. CREDIT-Google

ippines is also starting to adapt to these precautions with the Department of Health (DOH) allocating 500 million pesos for Ebola readiness.

“Our university should make us more aware and educate us more about this virus,” another student of DLSU mentioned.

“By making us more aware of the precautions needed to be taken if the virus did indeed spread here, the University is already contributing to stop the spread of the virus.”

L’ ECRIVAIN

A4 NEWS FEATURE Change the System or Change the People by: Avram Fransisco For the past 5 years, the University Student Government of De La Salle University has been followed. Since 2013 the Legislative Assembly of the Student Government have been busy in proposing, debating, and finalizing the proposal and plans for a new University Student Government. The new proposal for a new constitution was officially passed to go through a public voting last February 28, 2014.

The proposal however, after being approved and have gone through a year long process of revisions by the Legislative branch of the USG, must now undergo a plebiscite or voting period amongst the entire population of the University. The said Plebiscite started three weeks ago but was put on hold after a petition by two students was made, stating that the said constitution was “unconstitutional and lacked in the educational process among the students/voters”.

A temporary restraining order (TRO) halted the voting period and a 2-hour hearing was held last November 10,2014 to hear the complaints and defending arguments from both sides of the complainants and the proponents of the constitution. The magistrates decided to lift the restraining order and voting will continue on the last week of November. Due to this, the staff took time to get to know more about the current and proposed constitution in order to aid in educating the student body in making a vote.

The current constitution, which was also changed back in 2009 from the Student Council to the University Student Government currently, holds 76 electable positions in the government. These 76 positions consist of the Executive Board namely the University President, Vice President for External Affairs, Vice President for Internal Affairs, Executive Treasurer and Executive Secretary. Under each member of the Executive board is a committee or office, for example OPRES (Office of the President) that helps the President with his activities/duties. With the Executive board are the 7 college presidents from each college, which makes up the Executive Committee. Under each college are batch governments, which consists of 3 elected of-

From L-R: Emilie Boucly, Agathe Hotheau, Manon Dumoulin, Camille Hercauet , and Aline Roty; five out of the thirty foreign exchange students this academic year. Taken by Jilliane Gomez.

ficers namely the batch president, batch vice president and the legislative assembly representative, per batch level. The role of the Vice President for External Affairs in contrast to the Vice President of Internal Affairs as stated in the current constitution is in regards to programs and activities that are external to the University. The variation of roles between the Batch Vice President and Batch President on the other hand as stated in the current constitution is the division of work with in the batch for the Batch Vice President and external to the batch such as tie up projects with other sectors as done by the Batch President.

For the new, 2014 constitution, the first major change is found with the removal of the position for the Executive Secretary as well as the offices under each officer of the Executive board.

Rather than having divisions under the individual positions or offices as the current constitution suggests, the new constitution aims for a more united effort in all sectors and branches of the Student Government beginning with the Executive Board.

The removal of the Executive Secretary position and replacing the duties that such current position holds such as information dissemination to the position of the Chief-of-Staff, which is an appointed position.

There will also only be one central committee for all 4 Executive Board positions in order for the move of the student government to be truly united and towards a specific goal. The duties of both the Vice President for Internal Affairs and Vice President for External Affairs will also change. These duties based on the current constitution according to Reigner Sanchez, the current Legislative Assembly Representative of EDGE 2013 and Gregg Tolentino, a former Legislative Assembly Representative fall under the University President the autonomous authority in the USG. The Internal and External nature of these Vice Presidents will then be in terms of the affairs inside and outside of the USG itself while the University President claims the role of addressing the needs of the university inside and outside of the university.

For the batch level, the new constitution aims to also move as one united body by taking out the batch government in general.

This means students would no longer apply for specific batch governments as well as the college government but rather will only be able to apply in one unit, the college government. This enables the College to work as work and towards the goal and needs of the entire college. This is in order to avoid clashing or practically the same projects as well from the different batches.

The elected officers per batch will still remain except for the position of the Batch Vice President, whose duties of addressing the internal needs of the batch will fall on the shoulders of the Batch President. The titles of both Batch President and Legislative Assembly representative will also be changed to Batch Representative and Legislator, respectively. These changes in title is due to the emphasis in their duties solely as representative of the batch in the College matters or activities as well as the Legislative Assembly Representative being more that just a representative in the Assembly but as their primary role as legislators.

Overall such changes are truly big enough to redefine what the USG would become for the coming years. Both Political Parties in the University, Santugon and Tapat have their own stands regarding the new constitution and different sectors in

Ms. Caballero - International Students at De La Salle University by: Min Ju Choi

The International Center (IC) is the student service unit of the Office of External Relations and Internationalization (ERIO). It was established in 2009 to respond to the growing number of international students on campus.

More than 700 foreign students are currently studying at De La Salle University. From the year 2009, there has been increasing number of international students throughout the countries with South Koreans topping the list, according to Caballero Rhodora, Communications Specialist and International Student Advisor.

Ms Caballero pointed out two major reasons of increasing number of foreign students in the Philippines. The medium of instruction is pointed out as one of the main reasons. Since the English language is used as a medium of instruction, most of the international students whose first and second language is not English are coming to the Philippines. Other than that, there is an improving standard and quality education provided by the learning institutions. She also added that compared to

other Asian countries, Philippines is the second to India when it comes to English speaking capabilities.

Moreover, she brought out three advantages of studying abroad. When students go outside of their country to study, they can 1) experience the culture of the country or of their host country and then their host university; 2) have a sense of independence and confidence and; 3) develop communication skills.

According to Caballero, La Salle has a culture of welcoming international students. IC is trying to always remind everyone that when La Salle opens its doors to international students, it means that all of La Salle’s populations, the local people, the Filipinos, are of course also trying their best to adjust to the cultural differences that international students have difficulties with.

Here is the message of Caballero Rhodora to the international students: “We share what we have here in La Salle. And I hope international students will also have the initiative to participate, get involved, and share with us their culture, the same way we want to share with you, the culture that we have here in the Philippines.”

Thursday, December 4, 2014 the university push for either that Yes or that No vote. No matter what the vote would be, the USG is pushing for a 50% plus one turn out of voting to ensure the success of this plebiscite.

The goal is not for a particular side in the yes or no spectrum to win but rather that the student body would be able to voice out their desires regarding the new constitution and that the student body would be motivated with the help of the USG to make a wise vote.

The Judiciary holds a hearing concerning the TRO filed by the Debate Society against the USG Constitution Plebiscite CREDIT- The Lasallian

Yesterday: Today’s Future by: Beryl King

“Those who forget the past are condemned to repeat it” – George Santayana In an interview with Michael Charleston “Xiao” Chua, an assistant professor of DLSU-M, the 30-year-old historian from Tarlac City used this quote to explain the unfortunate truth of how people who forget their history repeat the mistakes made by the people from before. Inspired by his grandmother, Ambeth Ocampo and the historical changes in the country during his childhood, he pursued his passion of teaching and engaging the public to discover their roots by digging deep into their history. For him, a common history can be a tool for a people to unite and build a nation. However, he is not negligent about the fact that not a lot of people, especially the youth, care about studying the past.

“A lot of kids today don’t find it [history] important.” Xiao stated. According to him, the reason for this is that the youth cannot relate to the dead people and the hard-to-explain events that they memorize in class. Additionally, he was disappointed at the fact that he would see so many young people post on Facebook about how Ferdinand Marcos was the best president of the country. This was evidence to him of the skewed values people have these days. He argued how this type of mindset is the same as saying that human rights and freedom of expression are not important as long as there is food on the table, or that the country has good economy and new infrastructures.

For him, this sounded like they wanted to throw away the very thing that Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio and so many other heroes died for. Therefore, it is crucial for Filipinos to look back at their past in order to regain the values that heroes fought for and to prevent acts of oppression from happening again.

Another importance of studying history is that it can enrich Philippine culture in the midst of globalization. Chua argued that globalization can pose as a problem in the Philippines as it does not have a culture strong enough to preserve its identity.

YESTERDAY/A9

Prof. Michael Charlseton “Xiao” Chua, a Assistant professor at the DLSU History Department, TV Personality and a member of the Knights of Rizal, explaining the importance and relevance of history at the present. Taken by: Jilliane Gomez

L’ ECRIVAIN

NEWS FEATURE

Thursday, December 4, 2014

Batch 114 takes the spotlight!

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by: Avram Fransisco

It was a quest indeed! Last October 16, 2014, Thursday, five blocks from the frosh batch (ID numbers 114) from the College of Education participated in the annual Quest for the Best Block or more known in the college as QBB in the Natividad-Fajardo Auditorium in the 18th floor of the Andrew Building.

The project, QBB, has been a yearly activity done by the College Government of Education (CGE) for the freshman batches.

This project was spearheaded by CGE under the leadership of the College Presidents. Last year, former College President Darl Orillaza spearheaded the 2013 Quest for the Best Block for the freshmen of school year 2013-2014. This year, Monique Ungco, the current College President, aimed to continue the legacy of the freshly graduate Darl Orillaza.

A total of five blocks from the current batch of freshmen participated in the event namely: L81 (Early Childhood, All girls section), L82 (Early Childhood, Mixed section), L85, (English Block), L87 (Math Block) and L88 (Science Block). The theme for this year’s QBB was different era’s in music and pop culture such as the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and even the 20th century. The preparations made by each block were “very encouraging and the competition amongst them was intense” as stated by some alumni who were present in the event. True enough every block prepared well prior to the event itself in making sure that their dance routine, costumes and photo-shoots for the models were well prepared.

Prior to the event itself on the 16th of October, 2 models per block (one male and one female) had their photos taken and a competition through Facebook was done for the block with the most likes in their block’s picture. One block, having been composed of only all female students had one of their classmates act as the male role in the modeling phase of the competition.

On the night of the event, the College Government of Education got Jackie Velhagen, the Vice President of EDGE 2014 and Levin Garcia, the Batch President of Fast 2012 to host the festivities. Each block had their models parade in their assigned era’s costume, made entirely out of recycled materials only. The models also underwent a short question and answer portion, similar to that of a real pageant. Each block also had to perform a block number composing of a mixture of skits and dance numbers. The panelist of judges who decided on the winners in the various categories of the night was as diverse as the set of froshies who had performed. Among these panelists were former EDGE 2011 Batch President Celina Manaois, Celebrity and Fashion stylist Will Cheng, Ms. Philippine Youth 2014 Keena Puzon and LaSallian’s Got Talent Champion Monchoy De Leon.

Throughout the night students from the College of Education were also able to showcase their talents with intermission numbers by Dre De Asis who performed a solo dance routine, Marvin Mercado who performed an impromptu Filipino poetry and dance performance, and judge panelist Monchoy De Leon who performed via three song numbers. The night also featured games prepared by the College Government, which both eased and raised the tension for the announcement of winners in the different categories.

The highlight of the night was of course the announcement of the results of the pageant and performances made by each block. The following were the winners in this year’s QBB: • Most number of Facebook Likes – L81 (Early Childhood, All girls block) • Mr. and Ms. QBB 2014 – Anna Sarmiento and Mark Luancing from L88 (Science Block) • Best in Costume – Kim Chua and Nico Sun from L85 (English Block) • Most in Attendance – L81 (Early Childhood, All girls block) • The Best Block - L81 (Early Childhood, All girls block) To cap off the night, the College Government of Education made a special announcement that QBB for this year was not yet over. It was announced that another event entitled QBB All In: Quest for the Best Batch will be held this coming November.

Through events such as basketball, volleyball, dodgeball, dance competition and modeling, the different batches in the College of Education namely batches 112 and above, 113, and 114 will compete amongst one another to determine which batch reigns supreme. Follow the action for the entire month of November to see which of the participants deserves the title of the Best Batch!

The all girl Early Childhood Education block also known as L81 performing their 90s hits inspired dance number. Taken by Jilliane Gomez.

The Animo Style by: Aline Roty

Which of you does not own a DLSU shirt? Did you know that more than 60 different t-shirt designs are available in The Store?

The first thing that you’ll notice when you walk around in the school is the color that surrounds De La Salle Uni-

versity: green and white. In every building, in every corridor, in every class, you will encounter someone wearing a shirt with the school’s name, logo, or anything related to it.

In France, schools propose on the average only one style of sweater by year, sometimes in different colors.

But you will never see a shop with many items, sweaters, watches or even mugs than the ones you can see in De La Salle. So one question comes up: why do people wear Lasallian t-shirts?

Iris Cruz, a student in ABOCM gives us an answer.

“Some people wear it as a uniform, especially the freshmen. But generally, most of them wear a Green Archers t-shirt to support the basketball team during the championship period,” she also adds “Basketball was my first criteria in my choice of studying in De La Salle University.”

She explains that in the case of the Archers’ victory, students go to class wearing the colors of the team, “but only when we win” she pointed out laughing.

However, some students want to show where they are from or where they belong by wearing t-shirts sold in The Store or by student or-

ganizations for fundraising purposes. It is called “school spirit,” Iris talks about Lasallians who go to the malls during weekends wearing green shirts in order to show their pride of being green blooded. “If they meet an Atenista, it seems to be a friendly fight between them” she confessed.

So, according to Iris, students can wear La Salle shirts for events like sports competitions, animo rally, and the likes. Nevertheless, we keep in mind that students wear green to show off their pride and mainly to support the Archers. The main sentence we can find on the clothes available on store sums it all up: ANIMO LA SALLE!

International Students: now is the time to know our culture! by: Min Ju Choi

Do you know about school activities held by the International Center (IC)?

The diverse needs of international students in campus are catered by IC as a learner-centered unit. Those needs are specifically in relation to addressing students’ adjustment, organizational and developmental needs.

Programs and services provided by IC are focused on helping them cope with the university life through dif-

ferent activities and events.

This ensures that international students are given the opportunity to interact with their fellow international students as well as local students through different activities inside and outside the school.

One of the goals of the Office of External Relations and Internationalization (ERIO) is to strengthen its support to the internationalization thrust of the University.

The following activities are the regular events organized by IC: INTERNATIONAL/A9

The DLSU International Center offer various projects to assist the Universities foreign students like campus tours and buddy programs. CREDIT- De La Salle University Website

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L’ ECRIVAIN

OPINION

Thursday, December 4, 2014

A Look Behind the Newly Adapted Educational System: Are We Ready?

EDITORIAL

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EDITORIAL STAFF

he shift from the 10-year basic education to the 12-year enhanced program, otherwise known as the K-12 program, has been a trending topic in the Philippines for quite some time now. Even before it has been signed into law on May 15, 2013 as the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013, the K-12 program has widely received both praises and criticisms by locals and foreigners alike. Several literature and professionals attack the mere idea, saying that the program is developed with Western standards and that the ideas, concepts, and theories instilled in the framework of their curriculum may work there on the other side of the world but may not work here – a nation with a culture so uniquely different from those in the West. Others argue that we can develop a curriculum that is purely “Pinoy”, such as its predecessor. Feasibility may also be another concern of the government. Some contend that we are not ready to continue with the program and that our dreams are too big to be materialized, given the resources and financial status of our nation. But even if it is feasible, the fact that there are schools that do not even follow the K-12 program still remains— some just find it tedious and energy-consuming, others find it a waste of investment, while others just use it as a perfume to mask the stench of inability and ineffectiveness of their current program.

Aside from that, another problem arises: many professional teachers have evidently lost their jobs due to the transition – a fact that revolts many. It is predicted that another wave of teachers are getting the boot in the upcoming 2-year vacuum period for some institutions, in line with the K-12 shift. Perhaps it’s a good thing. What’s a handful of teachers who lost their jobs to the continuing downfall of the educational system? The idea of K-12 seems to be a good one. It offers proficiency through language, more specifically through the Mother Tongue-Based Multilingual Education. It also advocates integrated and seamless learning through the spiral progression. It claims to equip Filipinos with essential skills to prepare them for the real world – to provide our nation with more competent and globally com-

petitive workers. For some, the K-12 program can really step up our game.

The K-12 program truly has its ups and its downs. But despite the disagreement and prevailing debate over this matter, most can agree that implementing the program is a step closer to addressing the apparent issues that the Philippine nation is experiencing such as poverty and illiteracy. The positive effects of the K-12 program as of this time may not be so salient, and it may continue to be such if we do nothing. Do we consider ourselves ready for the full implementation of the program? Look

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at the number of teachers we have in the Philippines. According to Dr. Jose Ramon G. Albert of the Philippines’ National Statistics Coordination Board in 2011, there are only 413,872 primary school and 201,435 secondary school teachers as compared to the approximate 22 million students enrolled in elementary and secondary schools in the Philippines. Look at the classroom to student ratio. In 2011, the Department of Education insisted that the ratio is 1:45. Antonio Tinio of the Alliance of Concerned Teachers argued otherwise by stating that in the National Capital Region, the ratio is a staggering 1:85. Let’s not forget the textbooks. In other states such as the Republic of China (Taiwan), all basic textbooks in the elementary and secondary high school level are, first of all, free. What’s more surprising is the high quality of the books. In our nation, however, not only are books expensive— the quality is also behind expectations. Curriculum-wise, several public school textbooks are found to be erratic in terms of grammar and content. It is very unfortunate that the standards of our nation are most likely stagnant and below par. According to the 2013-2014 World Economic Forum (WEF) Global Competitiveness report, Philippine education is lagging behind ASEAN nations despite the K-12 transition. Compared to Singapore (2nd), Brunei (23rd) , and Malaysia (33rd), our nation is limping at 96th in primary education. To make things worse, our nation is still in the transitional phase, which means that the educational system is still quite unstable. Thus, based from the aforementioned data, can we say that we are ready for the full implementation of the K-12 program? The answer is evidently laid out right in front of us.

As Filipinos, we should be aware of this. The Philippines is our nation and ultimately our home. We also have to know that education is the most important weapon, which we can use to change our nation. However, the Philippine government still needs to address a lot of issues before delving into another, which may make things worse. From the data above, although continuing the program may make us seem at par with other countries, the fact remains that our nation is still an infant in terms of readiness for a full implementation of the program.

Dreaming big is no sin. However, we cannot expect immediate and mouth-opening results based on the current condition, situation, and prevailing problems our nation is experiencing right now. Perhaps, in a decade or so, our nation may become one of the frontiers in education. But as of now, we need to focus on more important concerns, because if we do not, we may just end up even worse than before.

L’ ECRIVAIN

Thursday, December 4, 2014

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OPINION

When Reality Crashed the Ideals: The Academic Shift to K-12 REALISM OR IDEALISM?

Patrisha Lliane Torres Last May 15, 2013, the proposed K-12 bill was formally signed into law by President Benigno Aquino, Jr. This law is also known as the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 – Republic Act No. 10533. The said law entails a shift from the Philippine’s 10year to a 12-year educational cycle where students will have to go through an additional two years of schooling to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge needed to be more competitive in this highly globalized era. But one question still remains – is the Philippines really ready for this kind of transition?

The implementation of the K-12 bill was indeed a shock to a lot of students, parents, teachers, and administrators. One high school student said that he was shocked and puzzled upon hearing about the implementation of the K-12 program in the country. “I [he] found it to be a swift shift in the traditional approach in schooling. It was hard to grasp because we were not informed

of the basics and purpose of the bill,” he said. Another student mentioned that she is actually worried about what might happen in the near future. “The thought of graduating late bothered me so much. I must admit that I already have made plans. But what concerns me the most is whether or not my parents could still be able to send me to high school for another two years.”

A high school English teacher also has something to say about the issue – “Honestly, I think the country is not ready with this K-12 program. The scenarios in urban and rural public schools can speak for themselves. I am still happy that the Aquino administration had the willpower to push such educational innovation. Nevertheless, the present problems in the educational system still remain with the potential of becoming worse because of this move.” The sudden shift in the educational system raised more questions regarding its possible effects of the currently low quality education of the Philippines that are most apparently caused by the lack of classrooms and highly trained teachers. These problems were already perennial and alarming even before the said bill was proposed.

Considering such distressing phenomena, the additional years of schooling may pose even bigger problems than that of recurring ones. However, one may still ask: “If not now, when?”

This question is seemingly aligned to the incoming ASEAN Economic Integration in the year 2015. The said integration in

the region would encourage labor mobility that may harm or discourage domestic workers due to the fact that foreign laborers would be coming into the country may be more equipped and at par with the necessary requirements for future jobs. The K-12 Act, therefore, may be considered as an attempt to protect the future graduates of our country from this line of thinking.

By the mere mention of lack of budget, facilities, classrooms, and teachers, one could already conclude that the government should have invested time in prepping the school administrators, parents, and the students who are the main stakeholders in this program. In fact, this is not only about informing the citizens about the proposed bill.

The Aquino administration should have studied the bill properly in such a way that it considered the current status of the system and the entire country. It is not possible to solve perennial problems with solutions that are not best suited for them.

Otherwise, they could grow worse and harder to cure.

Despite the unending outcries and pleas of thousands of stakeholders in the field of education, the government took the risk to put its best foot forward with the principles of pushing the K-12 law. Nonetheless the highly favourable potential outcomes, the state of the reality must also be taken at hand. The value of an innovation does not only rely on its idea, but also and most importantly, its applicability in the real world.

K-12: the key or an embedded solution NATIONAL CONCERN

Vener Angelo Margallo The Philippines has been a haven for brilliant and creative minds that the world has seen throughout the ages, though the current governmental system thinks so otherwise. Now, the country is about to enter its first year into the K to 12 program, and the question remains for people who have not underwent the system: “Do we really need it?” Many amongst our fellow countrymen have wowed the world by our skills, talents, and intellect; and most, if not all, did not undergo two more years in high school. Though education is important, do forcing added years assure learning?

Republic Act No. 10533, or more commonly known as the Enhanced basic Education Act of 2013, has been a law approved under the Aquino Administration by congress. The law entails an additional two more years into the 10 year system from elementary to High School. According to the Department of Education the new system’s transition period will end around the school year of 2017-2018, with its first batch of students who have undergone the system with its new curriculum. Public

schools must oblige by the law mandated and should start classes at the first week of June and must complete its 200 school day throughout a school year which would be around the third week of March or the second week of April. Private schools are not obliged to follow the rule as long as they should start the school year no longer than the last week of August. One of its main reasons for implementation is for the country to be more globalized—much like its neighboring countries in Asia and parallel to the system in the Western countries.

Some reports have shown that Filipinos would not like the educational system to change for they think that it would be a waste of time, effort, and money. Most of those Filipinos are below the middle class and in-between the poverty level. Although majority of those Filipinos are not above the middle class, a significant percentage came from students and alumni of different universities; some even came from the University of the Philippines, the highest ranking school in terms of academic standing in the country—in fact, a state school. Majority of those, now established, literate people are suggesting that the K-12 program is not the solution in education here in the Philippines, but other reasons that raises concerns; concerns such as the faculty— primarily the teachers. Classrooms are also one of the biggest issues that need attention. In the normal public school setting, a single classroom consists of 60-80 students. What’s worse is that only a single teacher would get to handle a class with that number of students: it’s a ratio of 1:60-80. Professors from different

universities admit that handling a class number of 25 and above is already difficult to manage. Now with the K-12 system implemented, the country would observe whether the spiral curriculum, which promotes continuous learning, will either expand or take a different form.

An interview with an alumna from the University of the Philippines, who wants to be anonymous, pointed out that it is only up to a person if they would want to learn—for they can take up their undergraduate and even post graduate studies. Though the K to 12 program suggests a vocational degree after graduation, is that what the Philippines is trying to promote—aim less for there is an immediate chance to get a job after graduation in high school? There is very little success in life only after graduating high school. The alumna also pointed out that the country is trying to copy other countries’ systems to resolve its problem; but the fact remains that the problem is within the government and the people themselves.

It is a shameful yet a near factual generalization that Filipinos are lazy; sadly, education is one of the things they take lightly. Is this what the Philippines has become—blaming the government for their faults when they, the people, themselves are exerting minimal effort in bringing the country back to its feet? There are a lot of things the country need to be concerned about, yet it is blinded in finding a way to solve its problems by imitating solutions made by other countries in their homeland, not ours.

turn the new system into our very own.

The Philippine government, however, has presented a different side: that it is time to embrace a whole new different system.

They even supported their claim by stating that the preparation period was sufficient and that the Department of Education (DepEd) had allegedly estimated how much budget would be needed. Unfortunately, it has been proven otherwise with the evident lack of knowledge of teachers, availability of facilities for more incoming students, lack of books and teaching materials, and poor budgeting. It is as if they are being pressured to push through with something that they are clearly not ready to handle just because others are demanding that they do so.

In an interview from the past year with Commission on Higher Education (CHED) chair Patricia Licuanan, she mentioned that K to 12 is a concept that requires thousands of teachers to be educated and that she does not understand why the budget for this particular preparation is going down. This proves that education officials are not the only ones at fault, but the people seated on top—Philippine government officials. It seems as though there really was not enough money set aside for both the planning stage and the actual implementation; that the government does not give priority to the improvement of the school system: the construction of more classrooms, hiring of much competent teachers, and the development of learning and teaching materials.

For the last year, Babe Romualdez of the Philippine Star has mentioned that because of the increasing number of public school students, there are no longer sufficient resources allocated by our government. The fact of the matter is that this is another culprit on why our country is suffering even with the new educational system—that money, more than anything in this world, is given much more importance than imparting knowledge and honing the skills of the youth. It is an unfortunate truth that many bright children are not given the chance to have their skills molded and their intelligence honed because of their social status and because of what our government requires of them to give in order to get the proper education that they have the right to.

If we look through all the facts and results of K to 12 from other countries, we can see that it really can improve our country and transform our lives for the better. Its goal is on point and it clearly strives for the betterment of our economy. However, because of our government’s decisions and debatable priorities, the situation of our educational system may have gotten worse than it already was. K to 12 was implemented despite the lack of readiness of teachers, students, and even the government itself.

It is not a question on whether we need the new system or not; it is a question on the stability of our foundation and of whether every sector in our society is ready for the change.

Why the Struggle for a Better Educational System is Endless READINESS FOR CHANGE

Diane Cortez

Most people believe that education will lead us to a progressive economy—that education is our ticket out of the state we are in.

This mentality may have started years back when our American colonizers introduced us to the concept of education. We were forced to think that by learning, it is the only time we could be accepted to be a part of the wider society. Although it is true that with it we can out-best other people, ourselves, and the issues that we have been facing, this does not seem to be the case these days.

The K to 12 educational program, a part of and preparation for the 2015 ASEAN Integration, has been adapted by the Philippine government to create globally competitive graduates who can keep up with the changing and much higher demands of the world. Despite this newly implemented educational system, there are those who claim that progress is not visible because of the late shift which some blamed bureaucracy for, the inefficient researches made, and because we do not have the capacity to

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L’ ECRIVAIN

NEWS

Thursday, December 4, 2014

TRO lifted- University Student Gov’t Plebiscite talks to continue From page A1

the current USG Constitution were discussed. Students were also informed about the plebiscite wherein they were encourage to vote on their approval or objection to the proposal.

One proposed plan stated by Micah Fernando, EXCEL 2015 Legislative Assembly Representative was to lower the USG units from 43 to 9. According to her, the smaller units would make the processing system in the USG more centralized and efficient. She also added, that with the plan, there would be a better flow in disseminating information in the different branches in the USG. Polling stations scattered around the campus A list of polling stations were made available to students days before the actual voting period: Andrew Lobby: For all the students of the Br. Andrew Gonzalez College of Education (BAGCED) and freshmen (ID 114) students of the College of Liberal Arts (CLA) and Gokongwei College of Engineering (GCOE); Gokongwei Lobby: for all the students of the College of Computer Studies (CCS); Velasco Walk: for all the students of GCOE and CLA except for the freshmen students and; Yuchengco Lobby: for all the students of the Ramon V. del Rosario College of Business (RVRCOB), College of Science (COS) and School of Economics (SOE).

Concerned students- ‘Plebiscite is unconstitutional!’

The voting started on November 3 and should have ended on the 7th. But in the midst of the voting period, two concerned Lasallian students petitioned to review again the proposed revisions in the USG Constitution and to prohibit the plebiscite on the grounds of it being unconstitutional.

According to the complainants, the USG failed to properly discuss with the students the reasons behind the plebiscite.

Many students felt that they were not informed that the current USG Constitution was in the process of revision. In addition, the talks about the changes were conducted just a week before voting starts at De La Salle University (DLSU) and on the first day of voting at the Science and Technology Complex (STC).

Furthermore, the turnout of students in the meetings were only few.

On the third day of the voting period, all plebiscite-related activities were discontinued.

Hearing regarding the TRO on the plebiscite During the trial, petitioner Jason Dizon argued that the plebiscite was unconstitutional on the grounds that the revisions in the USG Constitution were largely done last year and that the resolutions were made prior to the election of the freshmen legislative assembly representatives thus making them not able to participate in the formation of the amendments.

He also added that the information on the revisions were poorly disseminated and that students were not given enough time to review and analyze the proposed amendments. In addition to this, he also claimed that the proposed amendments were made without the consultation of various student sectors.

Lastly, according to him, the Convention of Leaders (CoLE) which should have served as an arena for discussion of the constitutional amendments was not utilized for its actual purpose but was just used for parlour and team building games.

In response, Chief Legislator Patrick Kahn stood firm that the USG Plebiscite was indeed constitutional. According to him, claims against the constitutionality of the plebiscite were mostly about the preparations and not about the actual content of the USG Constitution.

He contested the claims on the lack of freshmen representation and said that they welcome all advice coming from the stu-

dents. “Beyond the opportunity for the freshmen to be involved we reached out to the freshmen elected [officers] to reach out to the freshmen.”

He also clarified the issues about the poor dissemination of information and said that effort were made since last year. “We had fliers around the campus and room to room campaigns.

We contend that the USG gave its best efforts in its education campaign.

What happens next?

According to USG President Carlo Innocencio, even though the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) were already allowed by the Judiciary to resume the voting immediately, logistical limitations prevent them from carrying out the order.

But according to him, the plebiscite will still push through this term.

Why revise the USG Constitution?

According to released statement of USG, “The proposed amendments in the USG Constitution were crafted to ground the USG back to its founding identity and purpose. It aims to maximize its many strengths and capabilities, and to restore the faith of the Lasallian community in a system that has potential to effect change not only inside the University but also in society.

May it be the student body’s collective hope that the USG strives to be the leading inclusive-driven student in the country that advances student-centered research-informed services, policies and programs for the formation of Lasallian leaders engaged in the pursuit of social relevance and community development.

With this, the USG will be more effective in leading and serving the student body through proper student representation that constantly works to promote the many effects and initiatives of its constituents and to bridge the needs and concerns of the student body to the different sectors of the Lasallian community” .

DLSU embraces calendar shift Over 1000 Lasallians march PICC From page A1

longers term breaks, improved administrative work and school maintenance and better flexibility in class cancellations, which is undoubtedly one of the constantly faced issues with the present calendar.

“In view of the academic calendar shift in AY 2015-2016, several consultations were conducted to determine issues and concerns regarding its implementation. The new academic calendar will begin on August 24, 2015 and will end on August 11, 2016,” Br. Laguda said.

Pros and cons were raised with regard to this sudden and huge alteration. On the first year of its implementation in 2015, the University will have a five-month break starting from March until September. From this statement, numerous students brought up feedback regarding issues such as delays in graduating, conflicting schedules of their internship and having a too extensive summer vacation. With this, the administration made necessary modifications and considerations for the students who would be greatly affected by this change.

The University informed the student body that a special term will be offered, which will be composed of 11 weeks starting from May 4, 2015 to July 21, 2015 for students who want to catch up or who are aiming to graduate on time.

Fire drill alarms professors and students in Bro. Andrew Bldg.

From page A1

that there is danger transpiring inside the campus. People staying and holding classes from the ground floor all the way up to the 21st floor hurried down. However, some apprehended the idea that it was just a drill, making the entire thing not completely chaotic and disorderly.

Everyone in the building was tasked to evacuate and stay outside until the fire, supposedly happening in Razon Sports Complex, has been taken out.

Because of the unannounced drill, a lot of sessions and lectures were interrupted, which made a lot of students annoyed and also with the fact that the drill was so sudden.

“I thought there was an actual fire happening, the entire class panicked and felt annoyed but relieved at the same time upon discovering that it was just a drill,” a 2nd year college student said.

A number of students also voiced out their opinions about how drills should be scheduled in an appropriate time, and if not possible, have it announced for proper disposition.

“Our professor was in the middle of her lecture,” said Patrisha Torres, a Bachelor of Secondary student, majoring in English. “Suddenly, the bell just rang and all of us were mandated to use the stairs from the 17th floor, our classroom at that time.”

“It’s kind of a hassle for us since we have to go up immediately after the fire drill. For me, it’s a waste of time. It really is. It should be announced prior to the drill to avoid panic,” a student also in her 2nd year.Despite the fire drill being an occurrence for students and professors to be always prepared, alert and mindful in case a real one takes place, the unannounced fire drill had negative effects and perceptions from a lot of people who were involved in it.

for 171st Commencement Exercises From page A1

Social networking sites were stormed by posts from the graduates, before and after the program, which included pictures, long messages about their college experience and most captions stating “officially unemployed.”

Prior to the graduations rites, the students also had to attend a number of events such as the Baccalaureate Mass, Recognition Ceremonies and of course the class picture-taking. With a very long procedure of applying for graduation, it is sure to be a relief for the graduates to being already done with it, and with the whole college life for that matter.

Alyssa Ferrer, a graduate of AB-Psychology said, “Graduating made me feel both happy and sad. College has been a very big part of my life and knowing that it’s over means that I have to move out of my comfort zone and adjust to a lot of changes as I enter a new stage.”

Other graduates shared the same emotions and sentiments with her but some with a different outlook. “Ayoko magtrabaho! Hindi pa ko ready. Antanda ko na,” ( “I don’t want to work! I’m not ready. I feel old”) A BS-Legal Management graduate stated.

With students coming from different colleges wearing different types of hoods accordingly, the program was a very pleasant sight to see filled with emotional students and proud parents.

The 171st rites also marked the first time that Br. Dennis Magbanua FSC gave the message to the graduates since his appointment as De La Salle University’s President and Chancellor OIC. From dissertation writing, to toga measurements and graduation rehearsals, and to the actual graduation itself, these students are officially done with college.

DLSU and AdMU Korean students bag championship in Golden Bell competition

From page A1

ippines and also to build up accurate knowledge on the fields in sports, history, economy, science, and the Filipino language.

The Korean students who participated were from prestigious colleges and universities such as De La Salle University, College of St. Benilde, Ateneo de Manila Univeristy, University of the East, Mapua Institute of Technology and many more. Other than the participants themselves, the 150 students who attended the event also included supporters from each school.

Out of 120 participants, 6 students from DLSU-Manila namely, Tae Ho Jeong, Ji Hye Seo, Do Hyeon Lee, Yoo Bin Moon, Hong Goo Kwak and Ri Ho Seo, Ji Hye and Lee Do Hyeon, became co-winners at the final round.

With very impressive knowledge and preparedness exhibited by the three final contestants , the competition’s mechanics of awarding the first, second and third-place winners 30,000, 20,000 and 10,000 pesos respectively, were adjusted. KSAP decided that the school that comprises of the most number of winners will be declared as champions, giving both De La Salle University and Ateneo de Manila University the title of co-champions with a cash prize of 10,000 pesos each. Other than that, DLSU also won a prize of 5,000 pesos for best cheering, totaling to a cash prize of 15,000 pesos for the school.

L’ ECRIVAIN

BAG-CED organizations throw Halloween Bash

From page A2

led by Jam Pambuan, the 112 Batch President. With the main goal of the game of finding people with the same animal sound that was drawn, the attendees from different organizations were introduced to new people and also got to know each other. After which, they played different that made the whole event more fun and lively.

Amber’s Restaurant and the famous Noel’s Barbecue provided the dinner for the said event. And as a Halloween tradition, the general assembly also had a Trick or Treat segment and the awarding of Best Costume.

In a fierce competition for this title, Gab Fornier, EDGE2013’s Batch President, won Best Costume with his panda onesie.

“Despite having All Saints’ Day the following day, there were still members who came to the General Assembly that we organized.

People at the event had fun and had a memorable night. It was a successful event,” Vener Margallo, UNITED’s Executive Vice President for Internal Affairs, said.

Policy decision to be presented to the public as soon as possible- CHEd From page A3

27/15 units removed were not all in Filipino. They also include courses in English, Literature, Math, Natural Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences,” explained in the press statement of CHEd. According to CHEd Executive Director Julito Vitriolo, “These subjects are under the new K-12 curriculum and it would be covered in Grades 11 and 12.” #TanggolWika “CHED must immediately release its final decision on the status of Filipino in the new college curriculum. It’s been months since the consultation and the submission of position papers.” Dr. David Michael San Juan, a professor from the Fil-

Yesterday: Today’s Future

From page A4

“You can only face the world if you know yourself, if you know your strengths, if you are actually showing and doing what you’re supposed to do,” stated Chua. “The Philippines is called kabuoang may lamat, a broken union. We are united as a territory, but our hearts and minds sometimes are not here. And sometimes we’re too regionalistic.” The solution to this, according to Chua, is for the nation to have a common language to discuss its common history, so that the Filipinos can talk about how they can be strong together.

Then again, the problem still remains on how to make history interesting for students. “It’s an everyday war for the Araling Panlipunan teachers to fight the perception that history is boring.” said Chua. He even admitted that he also would find history boring at times. How then could the school or government engage the youth to appreciate Philippine history? He commended that the National Historical Commission of the Philippines has taken steps to modernize its museums. It has become more palatable, interactive and youth-oriented. However, Chua stressed that the key to successfully promote history to the youth lies in the hands of the public historians and teachers. It is their responsibility to translate the historical narratives into something that ordinary people can understand. Moreover, they must present it in a powerful way that they would not be passive listeners but responsive members of society upon hearing the glory and the horrors of the past.

“Maybe we should show the youth that it [history] is about themselves. History is their story. It’s not some distant past.”

Chua commented. He meant that the young generation must realize that they are not disconnected from the past events that happened in the country. They are part of a greater whole or a bigger picture of human existence. Furthermore, the stories of the past are relatable and inspirational because there are several human experiences that are the same throughout time.

When asked about his favorite quotation, Xiao Chua mentioned a passage written by Rizal in his essay “Filipinas dentro de Cien Años” (The Philippines in a Hundred Years). He said, “With the new men that will spring from her bosom and the remembrance of the past, we will become free once more like the bird that leaves its cage and the flower that blooms in the open air. We will discover our good old qualities which we are losing little by little, and again be lovers of peace, gay, lively, hospitable and fearless.”

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NEWS

Thursday, December 4, 2014

ipino Department of De La Salle University also spokesperson of Tanggol Wika said.

Tanggol Wika or Alyansa ng mga Tagapagtanggol ng Wikang Filipino (Alliance of Defenders of Filipino Language) - an alliance of around 70 schools, colleges, universities, linguistic and cultural organizations, and concerned citizens is calling to retain the teaching of Filipino subjects in the new GEC in college, revise CHED Memorandum Order 20 series of 2013, use Filipino as a medium of instruction in different subjects, and push for a nationalistic education.

He also added, “Their collective incompetence and/or inaction is insulting, and infuriating.

“Democracy won’t work if those in power will always dilly-dally on important decisions/issues. While we still hope for the best, we are preparing for the worst. We won’t stop until we win this particular struggle,” Dr. San Juan said.

International Students: now is the time to know our culture!

From page A5

1.International Coffee Hour International Coffee Hour started in August 2011 and is continuously being held every term. This is the opportunity for both international students and Filipinos on campus as well as faculty members and administrator. The event allows the international students to interact with University administrators for a meet-and-greet. It is celebrated with a cultural theme for the international students and Filipinos to be exposed to the diversity of culture on campus such as Cambodian, French, Indonesian, American culture and the likes.)

2. International Food Festival This event is held annually during the University Vision-Mission Statement Week. International students and student organizations sell international dishes to allow Lasallians and guests to experience the pleasing tastes of international cuisines.

Alongside with the celebration are the Cultural Night, Embassy Talks, and Education Expo.

3. Cultural Presentations During the Cultural Night presentations, international students show their talents to highlight the cultural uniqueness among other countries. The performances are dances, songs, costume parade, poetry and cultural art demonstration. For the previous academic years, several groups of international students coming from Cambodia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Thailand participated among others.

IC exerts efforts in order to host, to facilitate the needs, and to offer activities that can help the international students adjust better in La Salle. But then no matter which university they go to no matter what the IC does, if international students do not take advantage of these things; if they do not get involved and interact with other local students, everything will be useless.

Thus, this is like a mutual relationship of give and take.

Now, it’s time to meet, communicate, and share experiences with your fellow Lasallians.

Gov’t: “Appropriate timing” on LRTMRT fare hike From page A2 governments annually subsidizes around P4 billion for LRT’s 1 and 2 and MRT 3 each.

Some passengers are okay with the increase as long as it means better service.

According to Gail, a second year college student, also from DLSU, it is the most practical- if not, one of the most practical modes of transportation for most student. “We can sleep longer, it is faster compared to busses- even though we are always crammed inside- especially in the morning. I hope that they would be able to upgrade our trains as soon as possible- well, also as safe as possible.”

Solutions?

Representatives of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), MRT, and LRT promised improvements and consultations among parties involved are still being made. Recommendations from the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) Board will be reviewed by DOTC and to be approved

by President Aquino.

Vongfong causes more fear than harm in the Philippines From page A3

Ompong.

The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has warned rough see conditions in the seaboards of most eastern parts of the archipelago, as the typhoon reached its peak strength.

The typhoon directly affected Japan, where it continued to make damages despite having already left the country. The typhoon poured heavy rains over Japan’s southern island of Okinawa and was aiming at the next island of Kyushu.

At least 35 people have been reported injured in Okinawa and Kyushu, where authorities told 150,000 people to evacuate, as the typhoon toppled trees, flooded streets and cut power to more than 60,000 homes.

Compared to Yolanda, Vongfong was larger, but slower, with a maximum diameter of 700 kilometers and maximum sustained winds of 215 kilometers per hour.

Vongfong is the strongest tropical cyclone since last year’s Yolanda, which devastated parts of the Philippines, leaving over 6,000 dead and more than 1,800 missing. Furthermore, Yolanda also caused huge destruction in De La Salle University’s campus bringing about fallen trees and wrecked constructions.

Vongfong had no drastic effects in the country, except for the strong winds and heavy rain that caused floods throughout the country, even in Metro Manila.

No public storm system was raised anywhere in the country. Nevertheless, class suspensions were declared in schools and universities in different parts of Manila, but not including DLSU. Despite Taft Avenue being already flooded, the university did not decide to suspend classes causing students to become furious because of the inconvenience and hardships they had to experience.

Some students were stranded, specifically ones who commuted, and some decided to run through the rain and the flood just to go home. Furthermore, heavy traffic contributed to the sentiments of the students.

“Knowing how bad the flood is here along Taft Avenue, DLSU should suspend classes the moment they find out that a huge storm is coming,” a 3rd year BAG-CED student of DLSU said.

“It’s frustrating how the admnistration is choosy about the suspension,” a 3rd year CLA student of DLSU quoted. “Once, they announced suspension when in fact there is not strong wind or rain. But when the wind and rain is strong, the administration chooses not to suspend. It’s infuriating,” he added.

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L’ ECRIVAIN

Title Drought No More!

RTS

Thursday, December 4, 2014

by: Aerielle Christhia O. Aguda After the title drought the De La Salle Lady Tankers finally received a podium finish in this year UAPP 77 swimming tournament, scoring a total of 121 points, placing them third in the over-all ranking while the De La Salle Green Tankers placed fourth in the over-all ranking with a score of 159 points. October 2 2014 – day one.

The team slipped behind the Ateneo De Manila and Univeristy of the Philippines swimmers which led them to battle for third against the University of Sto. Tomas swimmers.

Led by team captains, Kito Zialcita and Raissa Teano the teams did their best to make the university proud. They prepared long and hard and wasn’t looking forward to waste any of it. In the end, Green tankers managed to bag a gold medal courtesy of the team of Joey Porove, Red Silvestre, Miggy Narciso and Pierce Beltran in the 200 meter freestyle relay.

On the other hand, Sabrina Ilustre bagged the sole gold medal for DLSU in the women’s 200 meter breaststroke. All in all, the coaches and captains were pleased with the results of this year’s swimming competition.

Although a lot of veterans left the team they still manage to get the medals they truly deserve.

Their valiant effort makes this team a team to watch out for, for the upcoming seasons.

Animo Squad: Win or Lose

The Lady tankers wins the bronze medal at this year’s UAAP swimming competition. CREDIT- The Lasallian

by: Aerielle Christhia O. Aguda

September 14, 2014 was not just an ordinary day for the Animo Squad of De La Salle University-Manila. It was the day every member have waited and trained for. It was judgment day. This day was none other than the UAAP 77 Cheerleading Competition.

The team was given just 6 minutes to prove that they are the best squad among all the universities that are included in the competition. The squad’s goal was to maintain their status of belonging to the top 3.

With the theme of “Outer Space” the team delivered one of the hardest routines that the squad ever performed. However, in a turnout of events the team lost their top 3 status and was placed as the 6th best among all the schools.

“What happened?” was the question of every heartbroken Lasallian as they witness this moment. It was also the question of the Animo Squad’s team captain, Charley Pena, which she had in her mind. As the team captain, she felt sad of this year’s result.

“Seeing my teammates cry, it was hard for me because I can’t do anything about it. As much as I want to win and make them all happy and proud, maybe it was just not for us this year.”

Although she felt bad, she also felt that this should be the team’s motivation to be better next year. “The team fought and tried their best to show everybody what DLSU Animo Squad is and how a Lasallian is.”

Pena also said that the Lasallian community that showed support this year is the biggest support since they started competing and seeing that they already felt winners.

What’s next for the DLSU Animo Squad? As team captain, Charley Pena, said “games for the second half of UAAP season 77 will already start and the squad will surely be there to support all the athletes of LaSalle.”

In addition to that, the squad will be competing in the National Cheerleading Competition this February. They will try their best to defend their back to back championship for the all-girls category and be given the title of 3peat champions. And after four years the squad will enter the co-ed category again in the hope of having a podium finish to establish their comeback in this category.

“We hope that the Lasallian community will support us this February, just as they did during CDC. We will do our best to win this one for you guys!”

The DLSU Animo Squad showing off their Space themed cheer dance performance. CREDIT- DLSU Sports

Lady Spiker Desiree Cheng Speaks on Stolen Championship by: Patrick Elijah de Jesus It all started back in UAAP 73 when the Lady Spikers attained their first championship. It became a wondrous time in DLSU for the Lady Spikers when they were able to hold that championship for 3 seasons until UAAP 76. Going up against their rivals, the Ateneo Lady Eagles, they were outmatched as they were facing a thrice-to-beat advantage.

Needless to say, the crown was lost and made its way into Ateneo’s collection – their first for the Women’s Volleyball category. But that doesn’t mean there’s no more hope for the Lady Spikers.

We got a chance to have a chat with sophomore Lady Spiker

Desiree Cheng and asked her what the team plans on doing after the upset from last season.

“Of course, we were disappointed after the defeat. But that doesn’t mean we’ll give up,” exclaims Cheng on what the Lady Spikers plan on doing after recovering from the loss, and coming into the next season.

“More time in the gym kami (we spent more time in the gym) recently. Mostly doing drills, a few weightlifting here and there, tapos (and then) perfecting plays,” says Cheng on what has the team been up to since last season.

We’ll get to see more of the Lady Spikers in action once the next season starts. For now, let’s take comfort knowing they are working hard for to regain the championship.

L’ ECRIVAIN

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SPORTS

Thursday, December 4, 2014

Buzzer Beater Ending: Tamaraws stomp Archers by: Aerielle Christhia O. Aguda The Far Eastern University Tamaraws ended the quest of our very own Green Archers as they set to defend the championship title they held last year. The last second, buzzer beater, 3 points shot of Mac Belo buried the hopes of the De La Salle Green Archers to have consecutive wins since 2000-2001.

With the final score of 67-64 in favor of the Tamaraws. Jeron Teng led La Salle with 13 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists. Jason Perkins gave his all with 12 points and 12 rebounds. In addition, Almond Vosotros posted 6 points and 3 assists in his final UAAP game.

At the start of the first quarter, Jeron Teng led the Green Ar-

chers with the score of 11-6. However, FEU Tamaraws managed to cap off the first quarter with the score of, 24-17. For the second quarter, the Green Archers managed to take the lead once again scoring, 32-26 but as the quarter ends the Tamaraws managed to bounce back and get the lead once again, 42-17. The rally between the two teams continued up until the fourth quarter.

The fight was so close no could have predicted who would win this game.

24.3 seconds left and the scores are tied at 64 points. The Green Archers fought hard to steal and defend the ball but Tolomia of the FEU Tamaraws managed to pass it to Belo just at the right moment to deliver the buzzer beater ending and ending the Final Four quest of the Green Archers.

Paddlers Bag Double Championship by: Aerielle Christhia O. Aguda Green and Lady Paddlers showed what a Lasallian truly is as they bag a rare UAAP double championship for both men’s and woman’s table tennis championship title. It was indeed a happy day for the team as they battled all the universities in the quest for the championship title.

The Green Paddlers started out very strong as soon

as they entered the competition. Out of 33 battles for this season they only lost twice, including the playoffs. The team had a thrice-to-beat incentive during the final match but didn’t take any chances of giving the title to their opponent, University of the Philippines team.

For the Lady Paddlers, although the team started out wobbly because they finished the elimination

round placing third only. But this did not stop them for aiming for the crown. With that said the team beat the team who they have never defeated before which is the FEU Tamaraws.

Ina Co won the deciding

match of Game 1 to bring the Lady Paddlers closer to the trophy. For the team it was the sweetest victory they had because they had to overcome a lot of obstacles before getting to the trophy they have wished and hoped for.

The DLSU Green archers lost to the FEU Tamarraws for a spot at the UAAP season 77 Men’s basketball championships. CREDIT DLSU Sports

Kyle Uy and the DLSU Jins by: Patrick Elijah de Jesus

UAAP 76 was a defining season for the DLSU Jins as they became the champions. It’s no wonder as they won all their matches during that season. Coming into UAAP 77; it’s no wonder they needed a lot of time to train and practice as they will defend their championship.

Newcomer Kyle Uy, who comes from Northgate High School in Los Angeles, is asked about what are his thoughts with regards to the Jins’ standings.

“I actually feel pretty nervous seeing as to how I just came into the team and they’re already telling me to be at my very best. Since, you know, they are champions and all. But I’ll still give them my all,” explains Uy, coming in from L.A. and immediately into a champion team.

“I know I’m ready. I’ve prepared for competitions like these in L.A. Although, I have to take it up a notch since everyone involved – the teammates, and the coaches – we are all counting on each other for a win for this season,” elaborates Uy on what is the mindset for the DLSU Jins in the upcoming competition.

The hard work doesn’t stop there. The hard work never stops.

As for the DLSU Jins, we’ll see more of how they apply this kind of mindset coming into the Taekwondo tournaments.

Kyle Uy, one of the DLSU jins demonstrating the roundabout kick. Taken by Samuel Wang.

DLSU Lady Spikers: No Mercy by:Aerielle Christhia O. Aguda

Sunday, November 30, 2014, marks the third game of the Taft based volleyball team. After beating Adamson University during the first game and the National University during the second game, the Lady Spikers are rooting for three consecutive wins.

The team is matched up against the Espana based team, the Lady Tigresses. The players from the University of Sto.Tomas aren’t looking to lose either as they want to redeem themselves from not being a part of the final four of last year’s games despite their skills. The game started intense as the teams prove that they are worthy of this year’s championship crown.

UAAP SEASON 77 STATISTICAL LEADERS (MALE- BASKETBALL)

The first set was led and won by the Lady Spikers with the final score of 25-23. The second set was a heart-stopping set as the Lady Tigresses led the set with 9-7 advantage over La Salle however the Lady Spikers weren’t looking to lose in this set as they scored and eventually tied the score at 23 all. The second set was extended two times but in the end the set was owned by the Lady Spikers at 27-25. The third set was easily won by the Lady Spikers with the final score of 25-17.

Galang lead the team with 21 points while Demecillo also contributed to the team’s win with 15 points.

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L’ ECRIVAIN

LITERARY

“EAT, PRAY, LOVE”: THE RESEARCH OF HAPPINESS by: Agathe Hotheau

Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat, Pray, Love is an invitation for us to question ourselves. It calls us to be aware of ourselves and our surroundings, living life to the fullest as we wish it would be. This novel retraces the spiritual journey of the novelist Elizabeth Gilbert who, after leaving her husband and their house, desires to seek out a certain taste or style that’s fitting to her. She then traveled to three countries in search of not only the simple pleasures of life, but also of peace and of love. Her journey began in sunny Italy, through two other countries, and by the end of the novel, little-by-little, she found what she was looking for.

This novel illustrates perfectly this period of our life where everything seems fuzzy to us; where we seem lost and where we seek for answers to the questions we have. Some of us may require a change of career; others may have to severe relationships, as Elizabeth did in the novel. She chose to pursue these at the same time, showing us that it is never too late to change the course of one’s life. According to Elizabeth, it is solely up to us, and us only, to pursue what we have chosen for our own happiness. It is, therefore, our responsibility to own up to what makes us happy, and make every effort to find that certain treasure.

Another theme that this novel tackles is the pursuit of love. Elizabeth learns little by little to live without a man in her life—without heavily relying on men and instead, deciding by herself on what truly makes her happy while she rids herself of her stale marriage. That, you can discover by reading this book filled with sharing, friendship and especially with love!

I could easily identify myself with Elizabeth despite my young age. Even with her problems being different from mine, what’s important is that we both question our status in life. And even at 22, we could do well spicing things up a bit with our lives. “Eat, Pray, Love” made me realize that I was not the only one having doubts about my life and my future; that it is never too early or too late to want to change. Committing mistakes is a reminder that we are only human and us being able to fix these mistakes is what counts the most. However, what really struck me by the end of this book is an undercurrent of fear to face things in my life, some of which are not under my control: the fear of trust. I will regard this book highly because with it I have learned that we should not be afraid to love, to travel, to listen, to make a choice, or to trust.

THE FAULT IN OURS STARS: LIVING LIFE WITH THE NOTION OF DEATH by: Agathe Hotheau Hazel Grace, a 16-year-old with cancer, falls in love with Augustus Waters, a boy from her support group. In here begins a love story which, at the surface, solely concerns the lives of two teenagers, but becomes something more.

The book spurns us into the world of a girl who seems to be unlike the others; one who always seems to be fatalistic at times. Sometimes, as readers, we may forget that she’s suffering from cancer because she pulls us into a universe of adolescent living, filled to the brim with literature, friendship and with romance.

Hazel’s history lets us glimpse the difficulties people like her face: living life without knowing where it will end, wanting to live a normal life. Moreover, she is fascinated by literature. With this, we see how frustrated she became at the end of her favorite novel. To her it does not make sense, and in turn she tried to contact the author to understand what it really meant.

This quest of information constitutes the railroad of the story of the “opposite stars.” This novel will make you feel the joys and the sufferings of a young teenager, while speaking about the uncontrollable hands of death. This book also speaks to us about life, about how we can write as we please in spite of all the difficulties that we have to face. “The Fault in Our Stars” is one of those books that truly make you want to devour the story whole. It is the kind of book which you may have trouble setting down once you’ve read few of the pages. This was exactly the feeling I felt when I read this novel.

Once finished, I could not stop thinking about it for a few days. I realized just how much I’ve disregarded my health and just how lucky I am because my problems cannot compare to what those people with illnesses encounter. Furthermore, I felt an overwhelming flow of sadness due to the author’s insistence to destroy our notion of a happy ending. A novel may end with flowers and a wedding between two cured youngsters, but no, even if it seems painful, he told the truth as it is in real life. We see the characters’ lives change daily, without filters; we go with the good and bad just as it is.

I Saw A Girl

Know Thee now, or know Thee then?

by: Jamie Ganaden

I saw a girl Who saw the world But the world, Didn’t bother to look back.

Across that glass she saw all that could have been; everything that the world could have given her.

She saw what was there She experienced what’s here Alone, everything she has to bear For no one really cares.

Outside the Firmament by: Jamie Ganaden

Thursday, December 4, 2014

by: Nick Llanes

When hoary time has had its way with me, and my sullen body weakens and wanes,

Love is Leaving by: Peter Kim

I love you.

Do you love me?

I think whenever I am in bed When you roll under the covers, does my name even cross your mind?

I always miss you.

Do you even have time to miss me?

I really want to be your side, But you always draw away, as if things are conspiring to tear us apart.

(Or, maybe you never wanted to be by my side.)

Weren’t we good just a few months ago?

Weren’t we happy when we were together?

But now, Why does our relationship seem to be downhill?

I love you.

I think you every time.

I always miss you.

But now the love is leaving….

But now the love is leaving….

Will I wait until yon time to know Thee, as I hobble upon my crooked cane?

Will I look back upon my dreaded past, as I sought fulfillment where there was none, As the face of Death comes hither, aghast, And all my time to know Thee were gone?

Will I see Thee but a distant Stranger, though still quite full of Thy unending love?

Will I gnash my teeth in my self-anger, as like sand do pass all that I strove?

Let thee not be a Stranger by life’s end, but rather, be my dearest, closest, Friend.

- SDG

L’ ECRIVAIN

Thursday, December 4, 2014

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LITERARY Papers by: Nick Llanes

Sandman eludes me as the sheets grow barren by the minute.

Eyes, planted on flatlight, on vertical lines flickering in and out and in and out and in and out White noise in chambers where the thought shows once croaked, as the shifting sands of the hourglass d

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e n d.

Azaleas

Grace

by: Kim So Wol translated by: Peter Kim

by: Nick Llanes

Wiping the slate clean was only the tip of the iceberg.

There was something deeper-Something that encompassed more than just the pardon of infinity; it was something infinitely bigger than just forgiveness; it was abundant life welling up to abundant life; it was sweet fellowship with the Beyond of Infinity; it was to be the son of the I AM, to be the bride of the Endless One, And all of that was a gift paid by a Man on a tree.

e

When seeing me sickens you and you walk out I’ll send you off without a word, no fuss.

Yongbyon’s mount Yaksan’s azaleas by the armful I’ll scatter in your path.

With parting steps on those strewn flowers treading lightly, go on, leave.

When seeing me sickens you and you walk out why, I’d rather die than weep one tear.

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L’ ECRIVAIN

COMICS & MORE

Thursday, December 4, 2014

“Academic Shift” by Claire Topacio

“21st Century Learning” by: Hazel Dee

“ASEAN Integration” by: Hazel Dee

“Elevator Struggle” by: Lester Gallardo

“Printed Over Online” by: Claire Topacio

“Roundtrip” by: Claire Topacio

WORD SEARCH PUZZLE

Animo STC ASEAN Handbook Bloemen

COSCA Zaide Spikers DEBSOC Tafr

SLIFE Plebiscite Judiciary DEAL USG

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Rivalry Grievance UAAP Agno Press