Poetry Planet International magazine Jube 2022 edition

EXCLUSIVE ISANG YAPAK, ISANG TSINELAS, ATBP TAON 12

ISSN: 2799-0540

WHAT’S INSIDE

STORIES OF FRIENDSHIP And many more

By Florentina A. Manikad

750php 1

The Administration Team Marites C. Ritumalta Chief Administrator Gigi Balita Tanushi Singh Vicki Hangren Hauler Moderators/Conductors Elmer Buduan Gamulo Odum Kingsford Maria Dulce Leitao Reis Marvin Omosemen Pamela Tennant Evaluators Marie Ezekiel Editors Marites Ritumalta Ailenemae Ramos Bernadith Dela Cruz Tanushi Singh Zaldy Carreon DeLeon Jr Columnists

DISCLAIMER The information contained on this magazine is for general information purposes only.

The Company assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in the contents of the Service.

In no event shall the Company be liable for any special, direct, indirect, consequential, or incidental damages or any damages whatsoever, whether in an action of contract, negligence or other tort, arising out of or in connection with the use of the magazine or the contents of the magazine. The Company reserves the right to make additions, deletions, or modifications to the contents on the magazine at any time without prior notice. This Disclaimer has been created with the help of the Disclaimer Generator.

This magazine may contain views and opinions which are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other author, agency, organization, employer or company, including our Publishing House Printed and Published by:

Poetry Planet Book Publishing House Rosario Pozorrubio Pangasinan 2435 Email: maritesritumalta@gmail.com Contact number: 09554960044

TABLE OF CONTENTS FEATURED ARTIST----------------------------3 Romeo Pilongo EXCLUSIVE-------------------------------------5 Henry E. Lemana II

FATHER’S DAY PRESENTATION----------7 Rema Tabangcura Madhuri Kulkarni Okoi Amadiowei Jacob Halyna Bokoch Anjana Prasad Sudha Dixit Eric Datuin Eva Lianou Petropoulou Anne Maureen M. Esperidion ACROSS THE MILES-----------------------15 Eric and Mayvel Datuin

MY VOTE MATTERS---------------18 Leo Edano Princess Pensoy Zaldy Carreon De Leon Jr. Halima Khan Daniel Miltz Sudha Dixit Gopal Sinha Janet Rose B Licudo Shamain Simeon

METAPERSPECTIVE

By Zaldy Carreon De Leon Jr.------------32 MIGRANTS VOICES

By Bernadith Dela Cruz-------------------34 INDIAN PRESPECTIVE

By Tanushi Singh----------------------------35

2

KUNG EDUKASYON ANG SALIGAN, BAKIT NAPABABAYAAN? Romeo Pilongo Ang edukasyon ay isa sa mga saligan ng isang bansa upang masiguro nito na magpapatuloy ang lahi ng mga lider at dalubhasa na makasasabay sa drastikong pagbabago sa mundo dulot ng globalisyasyon. Ngunit, ayon sa pagsasaliksik na ginawa ng Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), ang mga edad labinglima sa bansa ay isa sa mga pinaka-huli pagdating sa kaalaman at kasanayan sa Agham, Matematika, at Gramatika. Base sap ag-aaral na ito, maaaring masabi na ang edukasyon sa bansa ay may labis na kakulangan at kinakailangan ng pagbabago o reporma.

Hindi man pansin, noon pa man ay napababayaan na ang edukasyon sa bansa. Ang mga aspeto tulad ng kahandaan, kalidad, at sistema ang pinaka pinaguugatan ng kahinaan ng pundasyon sa bansa.

Ngunit, sa kabila ng lahat ng mga ito, nababaling ang atensyon ng halos lahat ng mamamayan sa bansa sa mga isyung hindi sana lalaki o mangyayari kung nakatamasa at tumatamasa ng kalidad na edukasyon ang lahat.

Maraming maaaring mahinuha sa mga pananaliksik ng mga eksperto at hakbangin ng gobyerno. Daan ang mga ito sa kamulatan ng lahat sa kalagayan ng bumababang estado ng edukasyon sa ating bansa.

Una, Mahihinuha sa mga resulta ng mga pananaliksik ng mga kilalang ahensya at organisasyon sa mundo na mababa at patuloy na bumababa ang kalidad ng edukasyon sa bansa.

Ang pagsusuri na ginawa ng OECD ay binigyang pokus ang mga bata na ang edad ay labinglimang taong gulang. Ang mga estudyante na nasa ganitong edad ay kadalasang nasa Junior High School na.

Dahil dito, masasabi na ang una sa binibigyang katibayan ng pagsusuring natukoy ay karamihan sa mga nakapagtapos ng elementarya ay hirap o hindi napag-aralan nang maayos ang mga araling magsisilbi sana bilang suporta upang mas mahasa

Pa ang mga aralin na karugtong ng mga ito sa hayskul. Ikalawa, pinapataas din ng pagsusuring nabanggit ang katotohanan na totoong mababa ang kalidad ng edukasyon sa parehong pribado at pampublikong mga paaralan sa elementarya sapagkat lumagpas sa pinakamahalagang yugto ang mga magaaral kahit na hindi pa buo ang kanilang kasanayan sa mga aralin at aplikasyon ng mga ito.

Ang kababaan ng kalidad ng edukasyong pangelementarya ay nabigyang katotohanan din ng kilalang mga mananaliksik mula sa Global World Index noong 2017 matapos mapabilang ang Pilipinas sa pinaka dulong parte ng listahan. Nasa ika-isang daan at labing tatlo na pwesto ang bansa mula sa isang daan at dalawampu’t pitong bansa na kasama sa ginawang pagsasaliksik.

Kung magpapatuloy ang ganitong sitwasyon sa bansa, mas lalo lamang bababa ang kalidad ng edukasyon at tiyansa ng Pilipinas na makipagsabayan sa mga mauunlad na bansa sa mundo na binibigyang pansin ang mga tagapagpatuloy ng payagpag ng kanikanilang bansa – ang mga mag-aral.

Ikalawa, Ang Sistema ng edukasyon sa bansa ay nananatiling nakatanikala sa kolonisasyon ng mga Ingles.

Sa kabila ng humigit kumulang pitompu’t limang taon mula noong makalaya mula sa pananakop ng mga Amerikano at kamulatan ng Departamento ng Edukasyon sa bansa na ang edukasyon sa Pilipinas ay tila napag-iwanang tunay, ang Sistema nito ay nananatiling nakadepende sa wika at sistemang Ingles at mas kumikilala ng karangyaan at kapangyarihan kaysa sa karanasan at kagalingan pagdating sa pagbibigay ng oportunidad sa edukasyon.

Ang pagkakatali ng sistema ng edukasyon sa Pilipinas sa sistemang Ingles ay mas umigting noong taong 2013 nang tanggalin ng Commission on Higher Education o CHED and asignaturang Filipino sa 3 kolehiyo sa ilalim ng CHED

Memorandum order number 20 series of 2013 sa kabila ng katotohanang saligan ang wika at nasyonalismo sa paghubog ng mga bagong lahi ng lider at tagapaglingkod sa bansa kasabay ng kalidad na edukasyon at epektibong aplikasyon ng mga aral na matatamo ng mga estudyante sa mga sitwasyon sa tunay na buhay.

Sa mga pagbabagong ito at pattuloy na pagbaba ng kalagayan ng kadidad ng edukasyon sa bansa, nakalulungkot isipin na ang sana’y magandang simula ng isang mag-aaral sa elementarya ay pipilayin ng mababang kalidad ng edukasyon, mamaltratuhin ng mga karugtong na aralin sa hayskul dahil sa kakulangan ng kahandaan at kaalaman, at ang ikahuli ay unti-uting kikitilin ng huling yugto ng pag-aaral ang nasyonalismo at kasanayan sa wikang Filipino sapagkat hindi na ituturo pa ang kahalagahan at hindi na rin huhubugin pa ang kasanayan ng sinumang nasa kolehiyo ukol sa usaping ito.

Ikatlo, Pananatili sa hindi epektibong plano at Kurapsyon.

Hindi lamang kalidad at sistema ang problema ng bansa sa aspeto ng edukasyon. Ayon sa Transparency International noong 2019, mas lumala ang kurapsyon sa bansa sabay sa pagbaba ng integridad sa mga lider sa bansa. Isa sa mga tangay ng kurapsyon ay ang mga nawawalang pondo na nakalaan sana sa konstruksyon ng mga tulay, paaralan, at iba pang mga gusaling ilalaan sana sa paghubog ng kabataan sa bansa.

Halimbawa ng mga pangyayaring ito ay ang mga dokumentaryo sa telebisyon tulad ng I-Witness na nagpapakita sa hindi nakumpletong mga paaralan para sa mga bata sa malalayong probinsya sa bansa.

Dagdag pa sa mga sumusuporta na talagang may nagaganap na kurapsyon sa pagpapatayo ng mga paaralan at mga pasilidad na pang-edukasyon ay ang pahayag mula sa Philstar.com Ayon sa kanilang pahayagan, maski ang mga palikuran ay ginagawa na bilang silid-aralan maipagpatuloy lamang ang edukasyon ng mga bata sa mga probinsya na nalalaan ng pondo ngunit hindi nabibigyang pansin o nababantayan ng gobyerno dahil sa layo ng mga ito. Sa kabilang ng lahat ng

mga ito, ang Departamento para sa Edukasyon ay ipinagmamalaki sa bawat taon na magsisimula ang taong panuruan na ang mga batang enrolled ay mas mataas sa kanilang inaasahan. Ayon sa kanila. Lagpas dalawampu’t apat na milyong estudyante ang enrolled sa nakalipas na taon. Sa ganang akin, nararapat na may kasamang bilang ng mga silid-aralan ang mga impormasyon na ibinabahagi ng Departamento g Edukasyon sa publiko. Hindi maaaring may estudyante ngunit walang silidaralan. Isa pa, bukod sa pagbabantay ng numero ng mga mag-aaral, mas mahalaga para sa akin na bantayan din nila ang kalidad ng edukasyong tatamasahin ng mga mag-aaral sa oras na pumasok na sila sa kani-kanilang mga paaralan.

Sa lahat ng mga ito, tunay na masasabing dedepende ang lahat ng mga pagbabago hindi lamang sa larangan ng edukasyon kundi sa lahat ng usapin sa bansa sa mga iniluluklok natin sa pwesto upang mamuno. Ang mga rason sa kung bakit dapat may mabago sa kalagayang pangedukasyon sa bansa ay tunay na marami at dapat maresolba para sa kabutihang panlahat at para rin sa bansang Pilipinas na pamumunuan ng mga hinahasang kabataan ngayong kasalukuyan.

Hindi tumitigil ang pagiging lider o pinuno sa pagbibigay ng pondo at pagbababa ng utos.

Mahalaga na mulat din siya sa pangangailangan ng bansa sa malawakang pagbabago dahil walang katiyakan ang patutunguhan ng bansa kung walang koordinasyon at pagkakaisa ang lahat ng namumuno.

Ngayong nasa ilalim tayo ng isang daluyong ng pagsubok dulot ng Covid-19, samantalahin natin ang panahon upang pag-isipan kung paano tayo makaaalpas sa pagsubok ng bumababang kalidad ng edukasyon nang sa gayon ay tayo na ang siyang magbabago at magsasaayos nito sa nalalapit na hinaharap.

Kung hindi mababago ngayong kasalukuyan, tayo na ang magsumikap na baguhin ang ating kinabukasan.

Kung sang-ayon ka sa aking posisyon sa isyu at mga argumento, inaanyayahan kitang gamitin ang mga #HuwagPabayaanAngPagAsaNgBayan at #KalidadNaEdukasyonParaSaLahat sa iyong 4 facebook at twitter.

EXCLUSIVE

SERENDIPITY HIT ME Henry E. Lemana II As a person, I thrive in the excitement of a fastpaced work environment, like that of the academe, where I can work on ratcheting up efficiency. I am all the way an optimistic person who welcomes life's challenges as opportunities to learn and grow as an individual, and as a professional. At first, I did not desire to be in the teaching field, but people may call it serendipity, an afflatus descended upon me and made me arrive at a peculiar realization that I needed to be a teacher, capable of bringing a positive impact on my learners, preparing them for a promising future. I am a person who openly embraces my flaws, and treat them as my grounds for betterment.

I commenced my teaching experience as an intern at Notre Dame of Marbel UniversityIntegrated Basic Education Department where I handled junior high school students. Such firsthand experience opened the door for me to preliminarily adjust to how taxing it is to be a teacher in the field. After I graduated from college, I was immediately hired as a college instructor at Green Valley College Foundation, Inc. in Koronadal City, while taking my review for the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET).

At Green Valley College, I was an instructor I handled the following college courses: Grammar and Composition, Speech and Oral Communication, Developmental Reading, Language and Curriculum Design; taught and supervised students using lectures, demonstrations, discussion groups, workshop sessions, seminars, case studies, field assignments, and independent or group projects; encouraged and monitored the progress of

individual students and used the information to adjust teaching strategies; maintained accurate and completed records of students' progress and development; developed curricula and prepared teaching materials and course outlines/ syllabi; prepared, administered and marked tests and papers to evaluate students' progress; etc. I was also assigned as the college’s debate coach, resident host of events, and one of the magazine writers.

After having passed the LET in 2015, I took a chance working as a call center agent in Davao City for six months, trying to digress from the complexities and idiosyncrasies of the teaching field. However, though others may call it synchronicity and fate, I chose to get back on track and teach again. Hence, in November 2015, I was hired at Notre Dame of Tacurong College (NDTC) where I enjoyed my stay for four years. It was NDTC that nominated me to be one of the scholars who could pursue graduate studies with the support of the Commission on Higher Education. The same institution also provided me with opportunities to grow holistically, covering the fields of spirituality, leadership, research, talent development, public speaking, and teaching.

At NDTC, I handled the following college courses: Grammar and Composition, Communication Skills 1 & 2, Speech and Oral Communication, Purposive Communication, Philippine Literature, Art Appreciation, The Contemporary World, Introduction to Linguistics, Remedial Instruction in English, Principles of Language Acquisition and Teaching, Creative 5 Writing, Stylistics, Journalism, Speech and Stage

Arts, Language Research, Language and Literature Assessment, The Teaching of Listening and Speaking, Developmental Reading, The Teaching Profession, Social Dimensions of Education, Field Studies 1 – 6, The Teaching Practicum. I also held the position of Subject Area Chairperson for English which allowed me to hold department members aware and accountable — by motivating, encouraging, and inspiring team members to see the departmental and institutional direction; work with faculty, students, and staff to establish and maintain a long term vision for the department that was consistent with the departmental and college missions; serve as a liaison between the department and other units of the institution, and initiate new academic programs and projects when appropriate. Furthermore, the following assignments were also entrusted to me: moderator – The Vantage View Publication; web content writer – college’s official website; adviser/ coach – pageant committee in various meets and competitions; resident research reader/ grammarian, adviser, panelist; event host and judge; head – evaluation committee on student services, etc.

With the desire to expand my horizon, and upon receiving a promising offer to teach abroad in December 2019, I flew to the United Arab Emirates. At present, I am affiliated with GEMS Education as the Head of Student Progress in English for the Cambridge Department. I am tasked to monitor the progress of students in English as a subject in accordance with the Cambridge Assessment International Education (CAIE), the world’s most famous international curriculum, by securing the application of appropriate assessments and by completing the Student Progress Tracker as the basis for furtheractions or interventions; lead a group of teachers of English by securing the application of active learning approach in the lessons, checking and approving weekly lesson plans and activities, approving the contents of unit tests and terminal examinations, and scheduling weekly colloquy for follow-ups of tasks assigned, updates in the department, professional

development sessions, etc.; work alongside the Principal and Senior Management Team to develop the curriculum in the relevant area and to provide support and guidance to teaching staff, etc.

My journey as an educator has been winding.

Nevertheless, I know, wherever I am, I carry with me my greatest strengths encompassing profound experience of teaching and working with 15+ nationalities, relentless pursuit of knowledge and personal development, a strong commitment to teaching at the highest standards, skill at working efficiently as a team leader and a team player, and genuine passion to employ every efficacious approach in ensuring optimal growth and excellence of my students and in making a difference in their lives.

I am Henry Lemana II – a selfless visionary, a lifetime learner, a perpetual follower of Christ.

6

FATHER’S DAY PRESENTATION

A GREAT FATHER Rema Tabangcura

I can say he was a great man who loves his family above all things. He work hard to provide for our familys daily needs and necessities. He work diligently and never complain.

Not a day went by where he didn't sweat, He'll work from dawn till dusk .

But neither a sign of tiredness nor trace of a tear on his face.

He was up, at the first crow of a rooster.

Performed his morning prayer and start to prepare breakfast.

Sometimes, He would ask me if I could help him in the farm before the sun rises.

As it would be difficult to work under the burning sun.

I would gladly and unquestionably help Him, as I enjoyed going to the farm very much.

I can play and catch dragonflies.

I can pick up shells as it was a sumptuous dish and my favourite.

I always love to tag along with Him As I can learn a lot of things.

As we finished our work in the field We would pick some fresh veggies along the riverbank, wild spinach , fern and more.

We would gather some clams too as the river has it abundantly.

It was fun, very enjoyable. We can have a fresh clams, I will happily and excitedly gather lots of them and at the same time can take my bath there. The water is crystal clear made me enjoy every minute if I'm submerge on it.

Slowly stomp my bare feet on the cold waters flowing freely in the river. What a beautiful memory to keep and cherish. It was my most treasured memories with my father.

One more that I adored the most about my father is his loved and care to my mother.

Though tired from working in the farm, He will help my

mother with household chores too.

He's good in washing clothes as well as a good cook too.

He never let my mother do heavy work like fetching water from a well, he would fill our containers to the brim. He loves my mother faithfully. And what I like most is that He'll lead a short prayer every meal as to thank the Almighty for the blessings we receive.

It was a simple life yet you could see sweet smiles and contentment in our faces.

We may not have luxuries, but we are as happy and contented as everyone does.

When I was young I would dream, to have happy family, and to have a better half as great as my father, but I'm not that lucky. My father is one of a kind for he remained faithful and a loving husband to my mother. He is a Greatest man indeed!

7

AN ODE TO A LOVING DAD Madhuri Kulkarni A mother carries the baby in her womb for 9 months and after giving birth cares for the child all her life..

But a father carries the child in his heart throughout his life... Mom's love is spontaneous.. but father's love is disguised in hundred folds...

He shoulders all responsibilities hiding the difficulties from his wife and children... The door to the child's dream is opened by the dad..

He cares for them under his watchful eyes.. The stern look he gives sends shivers into their spines.. but he shields his soft heart immaculately... Every child complains.. dad doesn't love me... But the child forgets to look into dad's eyes...a sea of love enough to drown in... The feats of children are acknowledged by a smile or a casual pat on the shoulder.. but deep in his heart he conceals the pride.. He never wants his kids to stagnate...instead he takes pride when they grow on their own..

He spends the last of his penny for his daughter's wedding... Though eyes brim with tears.. his dazzling smile.. while giving her away is worth all hardships...he has undergone... When the son rides the bike .. he stands at the gate watching him.. yelling from behind to drive cautiously.. Even then the father is often labeled as a miser.. He saves money for their future...

They understand this only after he is gone...

My father was a man of pride. He taught us how to lead our lives with satisfaction.. His stern looks are being missed now...But I am proud he built a wonderful foundation for a happy life ..

My father in law was a man of policies ..He taught me how to manage money and family life..

With Father's day around the corner... I dedicate this write to the two wonderful souls... My father Shridhar Inamdar and my father in law Bhaskar Rao Kulkarni...

Happy Father's Day dear friends..

8

A FATHER Okoi Amadiowei Jacob A father is the male parent of a married home who is generally considered to be the head of the family.

This seemed to be a generational, as well as a universal norm in practice for the husband of a married home to be in charge of the affairs of the home in many traditions of human society. It does not mean a father must be a military commander with excessive expression of authority over wife and children but should be a moderator in the course of coordinating the affairs of a married home for successful family living.

A father without doubt is the head of the family hence is expected to play certain roles as someone who is in charge of a family unit. He is inclined to offering greater percent of the family finances which will be complemented by a good wife, and perhaps by some industrious children when they had grown up to certain ages in life. He is also to defend the family from external embarrassment hence is expected to moderate members of the family when choosing friends from other families in society. No wise father will permit someone who will be of a threat to members of the family to become a friend to any member of his family. A father therefore is a counsellor to an extent with regard to managing the affairs of his home.

A father of a married home is expected to express additional love to members of his family, especially to his darling wife and his beloved children. Every good father is committed to expressing exceptional love and care to both wife and children. He displays higher level of love and care by making enviable efforts in providing money for their feeding, clothing, accommodation, healthcare, education and some other needs of the family. A father goes all the way by getting involved in strenuous duties and labours, exhausting even his last strength in energy consuming tasks of drilling, mining, diving, angling, palm wine tapping,

palm fruit harvesting and to an extent of getting engaged in slave status services with the aim of raising funds for survival and successes of the members of his family. He sacrifices in excesses towards the welfare of the members of his family, even to an extent of sleeping in mortuaries as a worker in order to raise funds in feeding his family. He has done everything, and has gone to every extent in keeping the family together with love and care thereby providing necessary needs of his beloved home. A father therefore is a permanent provider to the needs of his family as far as he is alive, strong and healthy.

Every good father is an epitome of love, care and unity whose sincere services for survival and successes of his home, keep the family together as an independent unit of existence in society. However most unfortunately, the sacrifices of fathers in family life are underrated by their children, and the credit always goes to the mothers who are closer to children in family life.

Fathers are a bit detached from children due to their engagements in outside duties yet the underlying sources in funding the family are from the fathers. A father is always a father in expression of love and care to all members of his God's given home.

9

I RESPECT AND APPRECIATE FATHER Halyna Bokoch My father was born in a village in Transcarpathia.

The village is big, beautiful and cozy. Dad always speaks of his homeland with love and respect. His childhood flashed in the village. After graduating from school, he left the village. He graduated from university and worked in various positions.

My father understands me well and always helps me.

He reads books, newspapers and magazines every day. He who reads books knows a lot, becomes wiser. On the weekend he hurries to the regional library. Anyone who reads books knows many languages. As a child, he gave me a lot of books. My father instilled in me a love for books. At home in the bookcase are books: stories, historical novels, fairy tales. Books are our friends and advisers.

One day we went to the village where my father was born. We went to the forest. Dad knew the mushroom places, he told me about mushrooms, where mushrooms grow. Dad showed me. We gathered a basket full of wonderful mushrooms, had a fun day, breathed fresh air.

Dad is demanding, strict, wise, kind, honest, fair.

Being a good parent is the most responsible and necessary job in every man's life. Only a father can teach, tell, protect, explain and do all this with love and patience.

I respect and appreciate my father and I am very grateful to him for what he does for me.

MEMORY TREE Anjana Prasad Dear dad, my memory tree does not grow with me anymore. Your number never rings on my phone to wish me on my birthday and special occasions anymore. I feel lonely and depressed many times. Life is hard without you.

Your smiles were full of glitters and those virtuous words always took my pain away. The chapters of life after you isn't the same anymore.

As a little girl life was easy between play and hours of study. I was your princess and bejeweled was my life in smiles and happiness.

I learnt to solve riddles and puzzles under your smart supervision. But solving life's puzzle is hard without you.

Twelve years down the line, life is moving on 'cause it has no choice.

At that time life was always on the run. School, college career and marriage. I was stretched out for time. And then came the day when you were hospitalized for a by-pass surgery. The surgery went well and you were back but you became weak with passing days.

You remained my role model.

But life is too short. It slips like a grainy sand.

No sound, no footsteps but only heartbreaking silence. Until we meet again to make more memories.

10

NOW HE IS ASLEEP Sudha Dixit Those were the halcyon days. There are umpteen moments, innumerable anecdotes which, even now, brings smile to my lips and a twinkle in my eyes. My father, I would like to call him papa, had multifarious personality. He was fond of singing. He was a good actor. He passed on his histrionics to us children. We used to have gleeful time mimicking many movie characters. He was well versed in both English and Hindi literature. He was a veteran in poetry field. He would, often, recite poems of literary maestros. But the best parts were his story telling sessions. He would narrate stories from every literary style. He simplified dramas of Shakespeare, Bernard Shaw, novels by Goldsmith and Hemingway. He condensed the epics like Ramayana and Mahabharat of Indian literature. Fables of Aesop, stories from Panchtantra and fairy tale from every genre, he narrated to us with panache.

He loved excursions. Temples, historical sites, museums, even amusement parks etc were his favourite places. In spite of financial crunch, he would take whole family to visit these locations. We have visited and enjoyed almost all hill stations in India. Any interesting spot in India, you mention, my response would be: - “Been there and seen that”.

As he was holding a very high post in government, he had certain privileges. During the festival of ‘Holi’(the festival of colours in India), he used to summon an elephant that would carry us all over the town. It was an exhilarating experience. In the month of October or November we would celebrate Diwali (the festival of lamps in India). After the ‘Pooja’, we would go to see the procession of deities being taken out foe public view. Those days, the streets were jam packed with holiday with holidaymakers and revelers. Those days there was no television or internet. The only source of entertainment were street plays and other form with human interaction. The tableaus with painted artists,

representing Ram, Sita, Hanuman and other Ramayana characters were very fascinating. When, we kids, could not see deities properly, due to the crowd, papa would lift us up, one by one, and enabled us to watch the colourful tableau properly. I cannot, ever, forget the pleasure, we received at that time by simply watching the procession and being a part of that carnival.

Coming back to papa’s story telling routine, I want to mention that he, always, made it a point to infuse moral value in us through his themes and style of narration. He sublimated our taste and interest in literature. I could never read trashy fiction or lowlevel book, after I was grown up. He enhanced our aesthetic senses. The way he treated us, added to our education. I did not learn so much from educational institutions as much I learnt from papa’s story telling or from visiting the fascinating places, he had taken us to.

I have done pretty well in life. In spite of some tough times, I have received fair share of success. All that I acknowledge that I owe to my papa. Now he is not here anymore. I would like to translate a couplet, he used to, often, quote: - “The world was listening with rapt attention, I, only, slept off in the midst of narration.”

Yes! He is, now fast asleep, in Heaven.

11

CONFESSION CORNER

By Eric Datuin In collaboration with Mayvel Datuin Becoming a father is a big responsibility. I was scared that I couldn’t provide for all my family's needs, especially for my son. It took ten years before my wife and I decided to have a child. We waited until we have a stable foundation to start our own small family. We made sure that we are mentally prepared for our child's arrival. Ten years later I was over the moon when my wife told me she is pregnant. I was there the whole process. All I can give to my wife is my full support. She had a sensitive pregnancy. Her morning sickness was triggered for three months and she was always sick. After her first trimester, she was back to normal. I watched her every day, she never changed except that her belly was getting big. She had a problem sleeping at night and looking for the best position before she could sleep. During all my wife's check-ups to the doctor, I was there. The time came when on December 27, 2018, we had the last doctor's check-up when suddenly I heard my wife’s voice, she was bleeding. We rushed to the clinic and the doctor advised us to confine her in the delivery room immediately. I was nervous sitting next to my wife and holding her hand. She was not only nervous, but bleeding. The doctor told me that my wife will be fasting until she gives birth. I was thinking about how she can push the baby if she doesn’t have energy. My wife had 32 hours of labor and ended up in a cesarean.

I waited outside the delivery room. Everybody rushed to the operating room and the doctor told me to wait until the baby comes out. I just can’t help my wife's pain.

I was emotional seeing her situation. An hour passed by and thank God they was safe. I saw my son in the nursery awake and was moving his tiny little feet and he was already cleaned. I cannot believe I am already a father. I looked at my son's feet, nose, face, mouth, head through the window glass. He is just perfect. He is resembles my wife except for his eyes. He got my eyes and my eyebrow.

Wow, I cannot believe we made a beautiful angel. My wife was still sleeping because of the surgical anesthesia. I waited in the recovery room assigned to her. Soon she will wake up the nurse told me and will be moved to the Recovery Area. Hours later I can hear the sound of the rolling bed towards the recovery room. I saw my wife already awake. Her first question was where our son is. I told her, the nurse is on her way to bring our little angel. A few minutes later the nurse brought our baby and gave it to my wife to feed the baby. I was next to the bed and assisting my wife and the nurse. Then after she breastfed our son the nurse gave it to me. My little angel is already in my Arms. He smells so good and is very fragile. He cried aloud when he is hungry and he sleeps a lot. I was amazed watching him inside his little crib. The next morning the doctor visited him for his circumcision. I felt so emotional; I felt the pain when my son cried during the procedure. Poor little nugget it is somehow too early for that procedure.

Before new year's eve, we got discharged. We celebrated New Year in our house. My family came over, it was simple and very special because it was our first new year with our little angel. Every day after that became special. I am always excited to go home after work to see my son. He recognizes me, once I open the door when my son is awake, he is moving his feet and hand as a signal to pick him up. Before he turns one, he already started walking and his first word is “DADA.” My wife always brings him to our music room, he loves to mess up the CDs, cassette tapes, and records. Time flies he is already four years old. He is in the terrible four-stage and soon he will start attending his preschool. My wife and I enjoyed being with him. No dull moment. We felt complete.

“A father’s tears and fears are unseen, his love is unexpressed, but his care and protection remain as a pillar of strength throughout our lives.”

-Ama H. Vanniarachchy

12

MY FATHER WAS A LOVER OF THE STONES. Eva Lianou Petropoulou He has built so many houses that he knew exactly each stone, her value and why it was there.

My father was our light in the hardest moments. He had a smile that nobody can forget. Even if someone meet him and maybe he was afraid of his appearance.

I tell you the holy truth my father was a giant with a great heart He always teach us the good and bad.

He trusts me and my brother and he make us promise never take a loan or ask for more.

You look first at your pocket ,he always say..

If you cannot buy it, it is not necessary for you.

My father was a wise man. He stopped school at very young age because he had 7 brothers and sisters to help, but he knew exactly the needs to build a home or to make pasta.

My father was the best chef in the world.

And he make us always French fries.

He was a dreamer, my father, he wrote stories about God and Angels.

He was smoking for years and he never quit.

In 20 days we ssw my father lose pounds and cannot breathe I lost the sun. The moon..

I lost the Light!!

My father was my compass Since that moment i am forever lost , in a small home, i write poetry for peace and love.

My father, he is our Guardian Angel.

We pray for his soul!

My father, was a lover of the stones. He knew them by their form, their weight. He knew how to match them and build a home.

The End

I think that maybe he could listen to the Angels’ talk...

One day he went to work and we had a canary that loved my father Very much..

We open his cage door and he came out to the apartment.

He flew all over from the kitchen to the bedroom and then he started singing..

After some minutes my father was at the door It was amazing how the animals love him They go and eat from his hand.

I remember this canary, he was singing day and night for my father.

One dark day my father got sick....

I never believe that a man so strong can be beaten by the disease.....

The doctor says that he got cancer.

13

THE MOST LOVING MAN IN MY LIFE (MY DEAREST Papang) Anne Maureen M. Esperidion “I thought we will hand in hand in fulfilling our family’s dreams, you know you were my only hope cause among your siblings you had the intelligence yet what have you done? The wall of our goals had fallen, I am too upset and disappointed with you”.

These are the words my father had uttered when I finally came out and told him that I am carrying his first grandchild before he decided to treat me as invisible one. My heart was tearing apart and I am into pieces. Hearing those words from the man whom I loved the most and who loved me genuinely was so devastating and the most painful heartbreak I had experienced.

My father has an iron fist in terms in disciplining as ,he has a tigers looks that he used to tame as quick.

As the lightning strikes, a deafening roaring voice of a lion that will shake our nerves when we are at his guidance office when we are naughty and he has also a very sensitive nose that sniffed our undesirable naughtiness yet he is also using all these senses of him to provide our needs and to give us a better living. He is the most hardworking man I have known and the most loyal one with his family, he never also ashamed of doing household chores and helping our mom with domestic works for he wanted to lessen her burden and stress at work. He is also the best cook I have ever met, he puts all his effort to serve as the tastiest meals. Though he is a tower built with firmness and great strength, a well defined and concrete pillar that supports the family ,he is also a feather, so soft and fragile and a cotton candy so sweet and endearing heart.

Among the four siblings, I was my father’s apple of the eyes and he is so vocal about it. Indeed I am gaining a greater attention from him because I am his female version from being his look a like and so with our Co equal traits and attitudes .

He is my forever superhero who always saved me from the attacks of my siblings and my mom, that’s why I always been so hard working with my studies and striving to top the class so he’ll be proud of me.

Yet this trust and confidence had lead me to the wrong track that put me in a situation that both my parents were never imagined. My father was the one whom I hurt the most and who pained a lot when I got pregnant at my early age. It was just like in a drama series, never I imagined it will happen to me. The blissful and warmth ambience of our home turned in to a frosty atmosphere. He treated me coldly, as if I was not visible to him until. “pang, my water broke!” We both don’t have any choice cause only the two us at home, It was then I saw him again how he worry and care about me to the extent that he drop off all the water he was pouring in his glass. And this thawed the glaciers that wrapped his heart and shattered the wall between us.

Even up to the time I got separated he never left me and my son, he stood up for me and gave his full support with my decision though I know I doubled the pain I caused him before yet he had chosen to stay by my side for he knew then that it’s his love and support that I could survived from the storm I experienced. I am luckiest black sheep of the family having a father who till this times is always lending his hands to me and untiringly looking after my child and all his grandchildren. Thus I promised him that all the dreams we once dreamt I will slowly make them come true and asked him just he stay still and hang on for this time around I won’t broke my promise anymore.

14

SMART PARENT TRAVELER Eric and Mayvel Datuin

Across the miles Eric and Mayvel Datuin the Fil-Am Fontana-based couple travel the different states in US, venture and sharing tips on how solving environment-problem that facing not only the US but around the world. Eric and Mayvel are founder of Nonprofit Organization “All About Kids Foundation PH since 2016” (Aakf PH) a nonprofit organization devoted to build confidence for the youth and create SMILE to the children. Also, Mayvel is a published Author “Journey with Unexpected Proposal” a biography book published by Poetry Planet Book Publishing House. Lastly, they have one adorable child name Erik Nikola is always excited the moment we passed by the beautiful nature scenic views along the way.

Eric and Mayvel believe that beautiful memories help children excel in different stage of their lives. Also, create a positive impact for a child will being forever.

What do I consider Beautiful? My wife and I love to travel. We visited couple Hidden Paradise around California, Arizona and Utah. Seeing our son take in NATURE is the most beautiful we can give to him. My wife and I started introducing him the nature as his early age. The moment our son says “Wow! It so beautiful! My wife and I start smiling. My heart start beating fast and three of us are excited. Erik Nikola is just precious and good trooper and he never forget to says “Thank you Mommy and Daddy with a sweet voice.” – Eric How can People help the Planet?

Mayvel: Water - continues to be serious issue around the world. At home we got rid of the grass and put drought tolerant pollinator plants. During our trip to Arizona Hoover Dam is one of the good examples. The water level is getting low because of the drought.

Also, Lakes are affected too. During our summer trip to June Lake one of the owners of the cabin who I spoke with worried.

I asked him question what will happen if one the lakes in their area totally dry up? He’s skeptical quite worried and it will affect the community and the tourism too.

Recycling – using plastic continuous to be another serious issue around the world. At home we can do our part. Instead of using plastic bag for any shopping for our essential’s things, we can use recycle bag. For our food container we can use glass or ceramic material that environments friendly. For our drinkable water we can eliminate bottle bottled water instead we can used filtered water that is safe and give good benefit to our body. One of the excellent examples are Kangen Water it is a machine that provides the best transformation of an ordinary tap water. Also, Zero Water a five-stage advance filtration that you can use to reduce lead and it is budget friendly. Goodbye to plastic bottles. Study show one household will do their part it will be big help to our planet. Let’s continue to educate our community to let’s go Green.

Planting – plant is one important living things in the planet. At home at started planting in my backyard different fruits trees, herbs and flowers too. Now a days our land of farming is getting lesser. We already felt the shortage of food and also the mountains are getting less trees. Most of the farm land owners are selling their land to the big developer company.

Well, I am not against of development, but we need to think about for our future generation. In my opinion farming is one of our priorities to get more 15 serious attention. Ten years ago, I remember when

my husband and I first time hit our long drive to San Francisco we used I-5 freeway along the way I saw a beautiful farmland. Now some of the farm lands are already develop for housing, malls and commercial buildings. No wonder the food prices is already high rocketing. People need to start to evaluate specially who manage our agriculture department. The more we plant it will help decrease the price and shortage of the food. Lastly, it creates good quality air. Let save are planet. Be responsible people.

Where do you to connect with Nature?

Eric: We are lucky to live on the golden state of California.

It is only few hours drive to the beaches such as State Doheny Beach and State Park, Laguna Beach and Long Beach. This are three beaches we love to visit during our off time. We always bring our picnic blanket, the overlooking view of the ocean, then walked the seashore, lastly but not the least enjoy dining the local restaurant with ocean view and the fresh caught fish on your plate. Always we have a beautiful nature date less budget.

Favorite Date Place?

Mayvel: Every day is always special day for my husband and I. House is one of our number one favorite date place. I do love to cook with our favorite food such as Pasta and of course our Pilipino dish and don’t forget a glass of wine with chesses. Cooking at home with your favorite food save money, is not like I don’t want to spend money, but buying ingredient with a good quality is high recommended. With my beautiful imagination plating my husband and I feel like we already have a date in a five-star restaurant. And my husband will whisper me I have “Baon” for tomorrow…hehehehe t hen we will watch movie or concert after our meal. We do occasionally go for date. Our favorite place is winery. We do wine testing at Temecula just chilling and enjoy the ambience.

Favorite Vacation Spot?

Eric: June Lake. I discovered this hidden paradise while we are watching movie The Oblivion by Tom Cruise. While reading the credit, I saw the name of the place where the location of the movie shot. I search it and surprisingly it is only four to five hours from our place.

Our first trip May 2014 it is our six-year wedding anniversary and my wife 31st birthday. June Lake also known as June Loop has a lot to offer. Inside the loop there are four lakes June Lake, Gull Lake, Silver Lake and the Grand Lake.

Everything just a bit quitter and slower. We walked around the town.

Nearby there are walking distance Marina named June Lake and Gull Lake. The two beautiful lakes you can do swimming, fishing and boating. Around the areas they have beautiful campsite with lake view and lots of trees, hotels, motels cabins and private houses.

It is like in the movie. Also, this place known for fresh Trout and every summer they celebrate Trout Festival.

We never stop in one place like what I said this place are lot to offer. June Loop is located at State Route 395 a few miles from Bishop California, Mammoth Lake Villages, Mono Lakes and Tioga Pass in the Sierra Nevada of California. State Route 120 runs through it, and serve the eastern entry point for Yosemite National Park. This place one of our favorites so far, we can’t deny we already visited five times in different occasion.

16

Most Memorable Road Trips?

Mayvel: We love to meander around surf town along Pacific Coast Highway. We always stop at Solvang for Danish Style Pasties, architecture, and visit the Old Mission of Santa Ines. Stay in Monterey at Lovers Point Inn the ocean front hotel, that you can walked around the beautiful trail from lovers point all the way to Cannery Row. Next day we visit Carmel by the Sea. Carmel by the sea is a small beach city on California’s Monterey Peninsula. It is known for museum and library of the historic Carmel Mission. I’m a little bit sad because we missed to visit the Carmel Mission due to timing and for covid restriction. But anyhow we enjoy walking the blue with sand beach and walking at the old town mall. We ate at the Ramen place and Erik Nikola love the fresh bake chocolate cookies. It was priceless we love it. Like my son always said Wow! Beautiful! A simple word that makes your mind, body and soul at peace. We are definitely planning for our next trip. This time we will stay at Carmel By The Sea City.

What’s On Your Travel Playlist?

Eric: Travel play list is one of the items always pack.

We have a file of different artist, genre collection.

I will put on next to me. Since I am the captain of our road trip, I will play my favorite band such as Depeche Mode, Lionel Richie, Beatles, Queen, Michael Jackson, you name it. Music created flavor while we are on the road. The best one when I tone in my wife and son favorite radio station 89.7 KSGN. I was surprised my son stating singing when the Dj played the song “Hold on to ME by Lauren Daigle and my more. Although he is little bit behind of talking but he can memorize song at his early age. I can see he has a talent.

Soon he will ask me Dad can I borrow your collection? Hehehehe What up on Your Travel Bucket List?

Eric and Mayvel: Europe. Our Goal is to travel around the world while we can still enjoy and can manage to walk.

. We love to visit historic place, meet local people, experience the beauty of the culture and lastly eat the fresh made pasta with local chiefs. Balancing life is the most important to keep ourselves alive. It makes as youthful, detoxified and feels good to be somewhere that make ourselves happy.

“A mind that is stretched by new experience can never go back to it’s old dimension.” Unknown

17

MY VOTE MATTERS

18

19

20

21

22

23

ON THE POETRY AND POLITICS OF CHOICE Zaldy Carreon De Leon Jr. No one controls their decision. The school is just clear that they are apolitical. Capture their photos elsewhere, not in the school premises. That is called subordination and respect to authority. Students should knock at the door of wisdom and not laid their opinions in the walls of misunderstood freedom, whilst irresponsible tongues and eyes cling over the penitentiary hypocrisy of the social media intellectuals.As a student at FEU before, this thing cannot be tolerated. Respect those alumni before you: they also wanted to speak before, but they will not. Respect the rules of the school. As great Socrates does when he has the choice over a hemlock poison or to be rescued by his friends, he killed himself by drinking the poison. Telling: if I don't follow authorities, no one will. In other words, be a model and do not refurbish the FEU tradition.These Student Council officers has done seven erroneous mistakes.

But we must be careful to analyze the situation. First, they signed contract with the school to follow its rules and regulations. The University since it's beginning, and even when I was there, is to its core apolitical. I even remember a day when rallies were huge and I was late in my examination. Afterwards, I told the story to a friend telling me I must not join any of things like that. It was a policy before then to be apolitical. There is no question to that. Second, along with it, the tradition within the campus must be observed. Traditions are nevertheless the unwritten texts of laws that we must follow. If we will be going to be a little fanatic, these traditions are the sacred ties that connects the past and today. Why would we break anything of these with our beliefs that either Leny or BBM or anyone else must be the president?

Has presidency of the country defined the academicity of a University? These schools were established before their birth. Third, taking a stand is good, but knowing your contract is a sacred to both parties, taking stands should be done outside the FEU premises. If you were the queen of Lesbos, you cannot control the queen of Sappho. There will always be the proper jurisdiction, the proper forum, the proper way of advocating our votes.

The school is for learning and teaching. The church is for spiritual and moral development of the people.

The government is for leading the country and the protection of law that made us one nation. These are separate elements of the society. They can mingle but their internal rules and regulations must be followed by their subordinates. The government tells us to be law abiding citizens, we follow the law. The church tells us to be good people, we went to church.

The school tells us to focus on studies, we follow that.

Why? Because we have these obligations to follow.

Fourth, do not push the school to take a stand, because just as Mondi cannot take a stand in the Ukraine Russia War, or Switzerland remain neutral in the Nazi atrocities, you cannot push the traditions to your level of thinking. There are consequences to democracy and liberalism. These are both freedom we must endure yet the former depends our rights, and the other is little revolutionary. Either we choose freedom or become liberal, that is our rights to follow. But we have to be decent in proclaiming these, have we been doing it right? Are we not standing on the tombs? Fifth, Traditions must be respected. Rules must be followed if you are inside a premise. You cannot just do whatever you want without instigating your objectives to authorities. Are we sure of what we are doing? We are first students, second voters. Being a student is one thing and a voter another. Our view of the world Kay seem to be different. Remember your lessons in structural functionalism and symbolic interactionism? As reiterated from above, the concept goes like this: there are elements of the society. Each elements had their own functions --- the family, the church, the school, the government, and the marketplace. You can study anywhere that is true: you can learn inside the house, the church, the municipal halls, and the marketplace but the learning is not conducive due to noise, inappropriateness, and other factors. Schools are established for the function of learning. In other words, in everything we do, we must look for a proper place to do so. We are rational creatures and not just intelligent Continuation on page 30

SHOULD YOU VOTE OR NOT

VOICE HEARD

Halima Khan

Daniel Miltz

You do believe in having the right to vote, but are unsure as to whether it really will make a difference.

So, should you vote or not? Yes - if you want better healthcare, education and childcare, fairer taxation, basic income for all, good recycling facilities, better roads and transport, better local amenities because your government, national and local runs all these services and your vote in a General, Local bodies Election.

Voting is the most important way to make your voice heard on the issues that concern you.

Voting gives you an opportunity to be part of decisionmaking that affects your life.

If YOU don’t Vote Others will make the decisions for YOU! Decisions are made on your behalf everyday, healthcare, education, housing, global issues like defence and environment and local issues like bins and leisure facilities.

But we need to use this Vote to have a strong and stable democracy. Remember Your Vote is Your Voice and by Voting you can hold politicians accountable.

Democracy and Voting matter and your say is important!

From the safety of your street to the quality of the air you breathe- Voting is an important way of having your say on the issues you care about. BY Voting you are also deciding who will take decisions on issues affecting your everyday life History shows that democracies in danger of losing their freedom register frightening low voter turnouts.

In thriving democracies, people vote in large numbers and the people's voice remains supreme.

I am personally have the opinions that it is through vote we can rule the world and change the world for a better future. It is through vote we can make the government to decide for ourselves. Democracy is the form of government of the people for the people and by the people.

My vote is my voice and my right. I will never allow no one to decide for me. I have to decide the goals and achieve them with right hand.

The laws that affect the average individuals, the influences of various platformed parties, and the importance of voting in society exemplifies why I value our right to vote. In the United States people are allowed to state their opinion. Many laws affect the rights of people to vote as an individual. For instance, the Fifteenth Amendment to the Constitution states that it grants Americans the right to vote, furthermore stating that the “right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.

While it is true that the outcome of elections is seldom predictable, by not casting one’s vote, that citizen is giving up on the chance of getting heard. Voting as a responsibility: Voting is as much a responsibility as it is a right. The whole edifice of individual democracy is built on the foundation of voting.

I believe, even if felons are released, we make a judgment that they are fit to live in society; therefore, they are capable of making trustworthy decisions.

Restoring ex-felons voting and civil rights is part of effective rehabilitation.

Finally, voting is an honor conferred on the citizens by the founding fathers. As an INDIVIDUAL, if I am not careful about casting my vote—or worse, skip voting altogether—it will jeopardize the existence of our democratic Republic to a certain percentage.. Voting is an honor. By exercising MY RIGHT TO VOTE, I demonstrate respect for the history of my country.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Vote is a supremacy to be honored as the state to return our oath of loyalty to it's fullness. Come and join hands with me to select the best for the public interest and state affairs. It's the voice of the day to use our vote as a challenge to evolve the rules of the state.

25

I KNOW MY WORTH Sudha Dixit

I am a middle-class person. I may not be rich but I have enough for survival. I maintain my dignity by not having to beg, borrow or steal. Mu needs are very few. ‘Cut your coat according to cloth’ is my favourite adage. Hence, I prefer to live within my means. I have no complex about it. But money is not everything. Our talent and other achievements, also have values; in fact, much more values than money.

In reality, every individual is unique. It is not fair to compare anyone with another person. Look at the universe! God has made innumerable varieties. Be it human being, be it flora and fauna or the animal world. One can always differentiate between two beings. So, why should we compare two human beings. Whenever I, as a kid, was compared to another kid for his/her virtue, quality or achievement, I retorted saying that I was different. If asked why, I said (with tongue in cheek) that variety was the spice of life.

Coming to one’s worth, I’m sure one thing- that each of us has one definite quality, simply, by virtue of being alive and sane; and that is one’s presence.

When we make a choice by counting heads or hands, each head or hand makes a difference. Similarly, in democracy, every vote makes a difference. When I vote for someone, I make my presence felt. I become instrumental in making someone winner or loser. I have seen people win or lose by a single vote.

Actually, we should not think about why should ‘I’ vote but what would happen if ‘I’ don’t vote? What difference a single vote make? Well, it does make a difference. It makes the number substantial. My apathy or sheer indifference, sometimes, become fatal. We realize this when our candidate loses by an insignificant margin.

Sometimes our over-confidence costs us dearly.

Sometimes our under-confidence beguiles us. The pre- polls results, often, work as a deterrent. The biased journalists give us false hopes or false despair.

The former makes us relaxed and less active, thinking “we are, anyway, going to win. “The second make us despondent and defeatist. Thoughts like, “Oh! What is the use? After all, there is no chance of winning. So, why bother? Best example of cockiness is the recent case of Brexit. The idea had much appeal. The perpetrators were too sure of their success. They floated the idea, made some animated speeches and happily presumed that they would definitely succeed. The opposition parties worked diligently. Despite having a weak case they won. It was shocking for the losers but that is the power of individual vote.

None of us can give any excuse for not voting if you are passionate about a cause. You cannot thrust the responsibility of doing the job on someone else and relax, thinking, that your ‘one’ vote is not going to make any difference. You cannot take it easy while others toil. American press is expert in creating negative impression. It can tilt the balance by false narratives. The point is to make your own decision.

Go by your own perception. Trust your instinct and act on it.

Indian scripture Gita states: - “Do your duty, do not think of the results”. This is the essence of life. Every living being has some worth and human beings are the intellectuals. They must know and assert their importance. They may or may not possess anything of material value but they do have their existence which is much more valuable. Respect it and treasure it.

26

MY VOTE HALIMA KHAN

Different governors, mayors, judges, and presidents are all selected by the general population through the voting system, or else they are decided upon by the elected officials.

I personally believe that everyone should vote as everyone has a different opinion and in our Indian democracy we have the ability to choose who can preside over in the office, this also gives us an opportunity to have a say in this political world. The entire purpose of a democracy is to be able to have a say in the political scenario and this is to make sure everyone’s voice is heard and this is what makes up a democracy with everyone participating in it.

From a lot of the statistics, it is a known fact that young people don’t vote especially from the age ranging from 18 to 24. We can have different beliefs but this doesn’t mean you remove yourself from the electoral process. On hearing these statistics I was completely shocked because naturally, people tend to assume that everyone votes but that is not the case.

Voting can be defined as a way of expressing one’s own preference or opinion. This is important as everyone can get a say in the crazy political world we live in and that is what makes up a democracy.

Citizens of the country constantly complain about how our political climate is bad and worsening day by day and the honest truth is we have a chance to change it for the better. To make these changes we must vote by taking an informed vote and casting it as you should remember every vote counts.

It is mostly the youth of the country from age of 18 to 24 that tend to not vote and this causes a huge backlash in the system as these are the votes that we need. If you don’t like the way your country is running then change that by voting and don’t just complain.

“Voting is not just our right but our duty as well”, this saying goes a long way as it tells us clearly we have responsibilities as citizens of the country. To make sure we citizens run and take good care of our country we must put in our

votes. A lot of the time people choose to believe that a single vote won’t make much of a difference but that is far from the truth and people must realize it as soon as possible.

Your choice of voting can have extreme consequences on the people from around the world who mostly do not have the right to vote. We must realize that a lot of the lawmakers are responsible for the various policies, laws, and infrastructure of the country for the future years and we are responsible for how these policies, law, and infrastructure is to turn out by voting.

A lot of people in other countries like Afghanistan cannot vote and some even die fighting for this very right. Most war-stricken countries have had their first elections in recent years even though most of the time they are threatened by the Taliban and certain terrorists. Superpower nation like America set certain policies which can have far-reaching impacts on countries that don’t have the same freedom as freedom of expression or the right to votes.

Citizens of the country constantly complain about how our political climate is bad and worsening day by day and the honest truth is we have a chance to change it for the better. To make these changes we must vote by taking an informed vote and casting it as you should remember every vote counts. It is the youth of the nation that does not vote and we have to change that as quickly as possible.

The process by which people can express their political opinion is known as voting. Citizens of the country express their political opinion by choosing the desired political leader. This political leader, if he is a lawmaker, will have a huge impact on the way the country will presently run and also in the future, so to make sure we choose the right leader in a time when the political climate is constantly changing and we should be responsible citizens and cast our vote.

It is important to understand that election acts as a pillar for democracy because when all else fails we can still choose the right person to run the country. By not choosing the right leader a lot of people can be 27

affected in the sense it can have far-reaching consequences on people who have nothing to do with our country. So we must understand that voting for the right person can have an impact all around us and can affect our country for a very long time. An election makes sure that the government is of the people, for the people, and by the people.

In an election, it is important to have suffrage which is the right to vote in elections. In India, the age of voting is attainable only at the age of 18, and in most countries where people have the right to vote have almost the same age limit. The electorate usually never includes the entire population. This question of how to have the privilege of voting is quite important. A very notable characteristic of elections is the nomination of a person. The nomination is the process of officially suggesting somebody for the public office and after the testimonials and endorsements are the various public statements that can help support a candidate’s nomination.

The electoral systems play a very vital role in the election. The electoral system includes the voting system and constitution arrangements. This is the process that converts a voting system into a proper political decision which can have long term effects on the country and its people.

In the process of voting the first step is the tally of votes. This is the use of the different ballot and counting systems. After this step, the result is determined based on the tally. Usually, the categorization of these systems can be majoritarian or proportional. Once the tally is over the person with the most tally wins the election. Elected officials are responsible to the people of the country so during different periods they must return to their voters, this is done so the elected officials can seek mandate so they can continue in office. Elections are conducted during fixed intervals of time. Elections can have far-reaching impacts on different parts of the world.

Over the recent past, it has become quite common to talk bad about the current elected leader of any legislative assembly or parliament. At the end of the day, the fault-finding comes down to what’s wrong with the system and how democracy isn’t functioning how it should. However, when speculating all the problems it never really bottles down to what the people can do to strengthen the system and bring change to it. Just as it is the responsibility of the elected leader to provide for the people of the country, we need the people to do our

job and correct the leader by making sure he represents the right things and this can be done so by selecting the right candidate.

The right to vote is one of the few pillars of democracy. Therefore it is important that one must vote if he is able to and contribute to the country. A citizen shouldn’t find a reason as to not vote as it must be a compulsive duty and must come from within. Citizens of the country constantly complain about how our political climate is bad and worsening day by day and the honest truth is we have a chance to change it for the better.

To make these changes we must vote by taking an informed vote and casting it as you should remember every vote counts. I personally believe that everyone should vote as everyone has a different opinion and in our Indian democracy we have the ability to choose who can preside over in the office, this also gives us an opportunity to have a say in this political world.

Composed and copyright by Country :PAKISTAN

From the Book "A MASTER TEACHER YOU DESERVE" by Elmer Ventura, page 117 on authorship, published on February 16, 2021 by Poetry Planet Book Publishing House. Educators who published their books may receive the following points for ranking: sole authorship-10 points co-authorship- 5 points articles- 1 point As long as it was registered in the National Library of The Philippines...

If you are an Educator and badly needed to have that ranking, publish your book….

We can help you!!

28

VOTING IS A RIGHT AND A DUTY Gopal Sinha Living in the largest democracy of the world, the biggest challenge for me, as a citizen, is to exercise my right to vote, purpose-fully and committedly, in favor of the right candidate and or the right party, without self-interests or prejudices.

It is not an easy task, in the presence of a large number of political parties of different ideologies and independent candidates.

One pays little time and interest to know about the manifesto of a political party or verify the credentials of a candidate, before going to cast one's precious vote and is usually influenced by the attractive and effective campaigning run by a party or a candidate.

All the tall talks about future plans, promises, previous achievements, appeasements, freebies seemingly fascinating, may be deceptive.

It is important to ensure one's vote is not wasted on unsuitable candidate or party, due to ignorance, biases or allurements.

Voting is a right, duty and responsibility of a voter in a democracy, whose meaning, purpose, utility and continuity depend upon the right choices made by the well-informed, conscious and judicious voters.

The candidates, and the voters, must be acquainted with the problems of the constituency and how they want them/ to be solved. They should prioritize them for convenience and expediency.

They should be willing to cooperate, instead of criticizing, opposing and obstructing only. Their active participation and positive contributions are solicited.

If we are reluctant to go to the designated polling booth to cast out votes or we don't care about the proclaimed policies, past achievements, outlook, attitude and credentials of the candidates and the political parties in the election fray, it would harm us, our interests and cause and the cause of democracy itself, in the end.

If we are already having a prejudiced opinion or being guided by petty self-interests, then it is a bad omen for our future and the democracy.

Education and awakening are required and expected of the voters, who should keep themselves wellinformed, alert and unbiased to serve our purpose of having such a highly-acclaimed political and administrative system.

Fundamental rights of the citizens are, usually enumerated and inscribed in the Constitution, ensured by the government and safe-guarded by the Supreme Court of the country. Likewise fundamental duties of the citizens should also be prescribed and monitored.

Freedom of speech is often talked about, rather loudly, but it has been seen that such a right is intentionally misused to spread misinformation, fabrications, half-truths, hatred and disharmony among various communities or deliberately promote ill-will, disunity communalism, separatism, fanaticism and anti-nationalism.

Such irresponsible behavior by the vested interests should be unanimously condemned and discouraged.

Every citizen should know and believe that voting is his right and duty both and he should think twice before casting his vote in anyone's favor, as it would decide his future, and the future of the country.

Each vote counts, so go to exercise this right, without fail, so that a suitable candidate gets sufficient votes to win and an unsuitable-one is firmly rejected.

--

https://daily.jstor.org/why-vote-lessons-from-29 indian-villages/

THE GOOD PUBLIC SERVANT Janet Rose B Licudo "Strong minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, weak minds discuss people" Socrates The election is fast approaching, where is your heart belong? To who's candidates you are hoping for a change?

A leader is someone who is building hope in his people and executing togetherness in achieving success, and a positive mind empowers them to reach their goals.

Is it you? Do you want to render good services to others? Will you set aside your self-interest for the sake of the public? Come work with us!

A public servant work for the government and the people. They are responsible as elected officials, not a political party. They deliver and develop services, inform policy-making and provide evidence-based advice with honesty and integrity.

They are working for a change out in the open. They adopt new policies based on the need of the people.

They are resilient, strong and responsive to meet the public input and determined to maintain good services even in the most crucial or challenging situations.

It is more about doing a job. A public servant is not working for his self-change but to make a difference.

Putting first the public interest ahead of his interest.

Building careers around that matters. It is not about money, prestige, fame, or the bottom line. Being a public servant means "working for the noble purpose" and dedicating your work to the service of the people.

They work on the right thing even if it is not easy.

They uphold ", the highest professional and ethical standards" because they understand everyone is expecting a good and highest form of service. They reach people, not people will reach them.

They are committed to the highest form of public services with integrity, loyalty, honesty, impartiality and objectivity. Their mind and heart are focused on good governance and administration as much as possible.

They put thepublic interest and services ahead of their interest. Their actions make sure it is impartial, objective and beyond reproach. A public servant is committed to the improvement of policy-making and delivering good quality services to the states and the citizen.

"A good public servant serves the people, not the people will serve them, choose wisely! Vote wisely!"

Continuation from page 24…. animals. A rational intelligible being that knows how to act with integrity. If we want the school to take a stand, the integrity of the theory must first be disavowed and the elements of socialization mixed together in a soup of void. Sixth, do not channel other students' peace to your clamors.

Your decision to post the intent of your voice is democratic but is not proper action of a leader. It is an invitation to join the political movement. It is a deviance and a selfish hypocrisy. Why endorse

30

THE CHOICE Shamain Simeon Just turned 18yrs and old enough to vote.

But, What does that even mean.

Will my one tick really hold some sway about who of the candidates will win?

Which one will give his or her best for the people they represent.

Who will make laws against oppressors to protect the innocent.

Which one will stand against tyranny when pressured by a bigger country.

Who has the strength to stay true of heart and not be bought with money What is the name of the candidate who pursues what is good for their people.

Who will fight for health care and education over weapons of War for more evil.

Which one of you is brave enough to fight again for clean water Who will push for free medical care for every son and daughter The name of the minister please giving basic human survival the highest platform.

Let me place a tick by the name of the person ready to whether this storm.

For a storm will come for whoever it is, not all will agree with what they say A difference of opinion is one thing but a dictatorship, no way If I had a chance to provide a list of what I think is important for survival I'd hand it to one candidate and tell them it's not for their rival So when they start with their debate they find they're on the same side Standing for all that is good in the World, passionately and with pride Then realize they can work together if they'd only give it a chance

Ultimately we all need each other if we want to advance The bickering between party lines is really quite disappointing Turning against your own people, finding dirt for exploiting Dirty tactics is not the way it only tarnishes your shine Leaves you vulnerable to danger against your family and mine So which one best represents strength, fortitude and honesty Required to hold the highest seat, the leader of a country.

Which candidate will work alongside his opposition for the good of all Lead by example, cooperating, side by side standing tall Well there's a lot to discuss and learn I'm pleased that I took notes It's a responsibility I've been privileged with, time to cast my first vote.

31

MetaPerspective Zaldy Carreon De Leon Jr. LPT, PhD

"MAJOHA" CONTROVERSY: IN DEFENSE OF DEPED The education system must be reflective of the general case, and not by few. There is an integral difference in looking at the system as a failure giving some points taken out, while it can be replaced by more than sufficient evidences against the prior context. It does not matter if you see the indigo or not in a rainbow, it is still a rainbow.

Most people concluded either the following: that the Department of Education has failed the education system; that the DepEd must shape a better curriculum; that history subject must be emphasized again; that the PBB housemate must not only do "paganda" but read books as well; and other things damaging to the concerned – both the students, the teachers, and the Department.

Let us go to the point, the story has already spread and has been a talk to all levels of the society.

However, let us analyze the situation first. At the PBB, the housemates were asked about this infamous question. But the housemates wrongly answered. If this event is not a product of classic business strategy to boost viewers, then something is wrong with the PBB housemates; but obviously not with the education system. Because even if grade 3 can answer this, not all Bar, Board, and teacher examinees can pass the licensure. I hope you get the point: retention may be an issue, but no intellect is perfect.

In figures of speech, there is what we call synecdoche. Synecdoche is a figure of speech referring to when a part of something is used to refer to the whole, such as in the phrase "I like your wheels" where "wheels" refer to the car. In this essence, the housemates lose one essential thing to be part of the whole, are they within the system PBB as a part of a whole, represents only themselves, or the station which they were drooling their intellectual lax; but not the whole since they were not technically part of the system which they

compromised.

When we say Colgate, it is a toothpaste. But Colgate is not the only toothpaste in the market. PBB housemates do not represent the Filipino studentry to conclude that the Department of Education has failed the educational system. The PBB housemates are part of the system but they are not the system; there were indeed more Filipinos in the system who do better than that.

The Department of Education directly controls the public schools. The private schools are under its umbrella. It means that though the private schools are under DepEd, the control over curriculum is not handled by them. Private institutions had their own curriculum guide which were upgraded regularly. I do not have an idea where the housemates came---in a public or private school? Whichever, public school cannot had these info off the system; private school must have been above-minimum standards. The problem comes from the individual, not the system.

The question asked was on the lowest level of Revised Bloom's Taxonomy. It is a heartbreak knowing the PBB housemate cannot answer this one. Had they not really encountered Gomburza in their history class?

Had any teacher in Araling Panlipunan spoke of it in anyway?

In my own exposition, I tried to understand her. But her fight there seems to open up many more questions. However, the issue provides a perk.

How many of us knew the Gomburza well enough, more so their names. We knew Gomez, Burgos,and Zamora. But who knew their names? The MaJoHa incidence made another set of mnemonics to connect with Gomburza, having their names made known.

Thus, Gom. Bur. Za Ma. Jo. Ha Now, we had their names complete: Mariano Gomez, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora. The PBB housemates gone wrong; now, we as educators,32

must reteach them, not mock them. That is what a teacher does when 5% of the class failed an assessment. On the question that DepEd must reshape the curriculum, is debatable. There are things that really needs update including the inclusion of the technology, inclusion of global ideas, and global appraisals but the current funds cannot do so.

We go with the alternatives and tried the better solution from technologies that have sworn the same effect. The problem with the PBB housemates is not inferentially with the curriculum but with the question, had these info retained? Some would argue that these simple facts are not important because we must move on with higher RBT or higher order thinking skills; others would argue we must know these simple facts because it is part of Philippine history.

Yes, all got their points: the Philippine history must not be forgotten, as well as we must also get at par with our neighboring countries. Have you seen Japanese students use the abacus calculating billions in it, then watch YouTube. Have you seen a Singaporean regular student, then go with the news.

In educating our students, integrate history in other lessons, and give history a special place in the curriculum. I got things in mind but since I'm not yet part of DepEd, these theories will remain applicable in our small foundation school only. In other words, the problem is obvious, teachers once again must reteach them, retool the learning experience, use differentiated teaching and other options for a better retention.

In our search for a better education system, we missed to look on ourselves, have we shared a better part of ourselves to the department or we were just busy filling the KRAs with hypocritical and show off

papers that do not professionally develop us as teachers and educators?

History is the spirit of the nation, it is the memory of the people and the times that passed with them. What we hear, see, and look at the youth is product of the secularization, globalization, assimilation, xenocentricism, relativism, and technocracy in our society. Too much of these will lead a nation to fail. If we want a perfect educational system, we must bring ourselves back to the beginning of time and hug nature rather than the society. But, as intellectual development of human stands higher a step higher than the other day, we must affirm that education must follow its steps. Education, under the present system, may have flaws according to research and opinions of many teachers. Well, I supposed I am one of it. But like my dear Socrates who may leave his prison, cannot do so: I rather drink the hemlock poison than be an obstinate creature modelling insubordination than be part of the solution in working out contents and contexts that will help us improve and enhance our education.

We are like a colony of ants. If one division is not able to do its duty, the whole colony may perish.

But if all of us work together, and stop nagging the Department for concluding a failed educational system, that is worst that mass suicide. We have known the wrongs and the mistakes, it is now time to act. The educational system is flexible and, like a DNA, it contributes to the phylogenetic functions of the contemporary and future generations.

I wonder if the educational system failed, it cannot produce Filipino champions and global citizens around the world.

33

MIGRANTS’ VOICES

Father

Father: the protector, the provider and the disciplinarian. A good father is a pillar of strength, support and guidance. A father is the daughter’s first love before she met someone to settle down and spend the rest of her life to.

As parents are very important in a family, fathers are often seen as the authority figurehead and leader of the family.

A father’s good treatment to females will shape his daughter’s belief on how good men treat women as well as teaches their boys/sons how to treat women appropriately.

In our community there are certain types of fathers.

There are prisoners of wars fathers, away from their family to serve and protect and to raise the flag of the nation. The sad reality that slices every veins of the heart of a father fighting, carrying guns and bullets instead of carrying their children and let them feel the warmth love and embrace of a father.

Salute to our heroes!

There are also a missing in action fathers. Not always having a father carrying flowers, chocolates and sweet perfumes with him to please his children.

Some doesn’t care. Present in the house but no time to play and interact with kids. These kinds of fathers got annoyed and lazy interacting with children and not proactive.

Some fathers are (A.W.O.L) absent without leave dads. Leaving his family without knowing his whereabouts. Leaving his responsibility to the wife/mother of the children alone. In my own point of view, these kinds of fathers I may call a coward man.

We have also in the community a reserved duty father. They treat fatherhood like a part-time job.

They can paly and engage with children but only occasionally- maybe only on the weekends. Not a full-time father but only show father figure to kids in a short period of time.

Bernadith Dela Cruz

And there’s an active duty dad. They are proactive and take all the responsibilities, even not a perfect father he’s a consistently and emotionally present father to his children. Play with kids and do a lot of stuffs together to create a great memory.

What do you think of your father? Only you, know.

As we celebrate Father’s Day, we salute all fathers around the world no matter what or kind of father he is, he is still a father. This is the time to celebrate the essence of a father. An import role in the community that serves an inspiration to our youths of today. A father is an important foundation inside the home that affects the life and future of the children.

TO ALL FATHERS, HAPPY FATHER’S DAY!

34

INDIAN PERSPECTIVE Tanushi Singh

My Right To Vote Politician is synonyms to corruption. A fact nobody declares openly but nevertheless it's the one truth no one can deny if you learn and study about the history of politics since India 's Independence. Politics precedes humanity. Power precedes everything literally. Power is money in this game of politics.

Politics to me always meant a ruthless community that pretends to work for the people but actually works only for their own benefits while projecting to the country they as a ruling government are doing everything to their utmost capacity to work for the greater good of the nation. But once in a few decades emerges a few rare leaders who strive to work towards a better tomorrow and have a vision of focusing on the major problems of the country. Such rare leaders need us, we need to vote for the right people for the economical and social growth of the country .Time and again history has witnessed whenever a wrong leader wins an election, the country faces huge socio economic losses, it also leads to rapid communal disharmony and overall disruption of peace in the nation. The right to vote in India begins at 18 years.

I firmly believe the youth can take the nation in the right direction. The need of the hour is for the youth to be aware of the ongoing challenges the country is facing and choose the leaders wisely for a brighter tomorrow. The right to vote is a basic human right for every citizen of a democratic country. The right to vote is the right to choose the government is what makes all the difference for the development of any nation. It is important to use this right with vigilance, awareness and responsibity.

Every vote matters and one vote can change the course of history because every once in a while when the right leader gets chosen , you can see the

spark grow in every darkness every disparity and every problem. May we all always stay responsible and wise in understanding our right to vote .India like any developing democratic nation needs a well balanced and progressive leader to grow into its true potential .I pray for our soil for our people I pray for a nation that has witnessed endless suffering in the hands of the British and fought hard to gain independence. May we continue to live peacefully.

Lest we forget it is sacrifice of the indefinite freedom fighters that has led us to this day when we choose and decide our leaders. May we never take this right to vote for granted.

35

REQUIREMENTS FOR PUBLISHING

• -100 poems for poetry ( maximum) • -short stories • -novels • Children’s book • Magazine • documentary, thesis, research, dissertations (200 pages maximum for excess, charges will be added for every 100 pages excess) -compile them along with; Biography, Dedication, and info about your book -send to lovelypoetess95@gmail.com BENEFITS - Your book will be published internationally/locally with the National Library of The Philippines registration certificate -you are given a copy of your book (for Filipinos) and will give you one TIME CORRECTIONS once you receive your sample book and want to change slight errors..

-for authors outside the country, pay for shipping TERMS AND CONDITIONS 1. Freedom is yours to print copy your book in volumes, sell and launch them as you wish, profit is yours( printing should be under the publishing house only) we also have our own website at: https://poetryplanet114433.wixsite.com/website-1 1. our official bookstore at: https://611c9a51097c9.site123.me/ 2. You cannot republish your book from other companies or publishers unless your publisher has written consent.

3. You have no right to remove your publisher’s logo from your book ROYALTIES: (IN AMAZON, LULU, BOOKEMON) and our official online bookstore 1. If someone buys your book, you will receive 60 % royalty (from your revenue) that is transferable in your bank account, your publisher will be needing your bank accounts 2. Amazon only deals with the publisher, your publisher will be sending your royalty with a 25percent tax deduction.

- You can only claim your royalty fee once it reaches 50usd 3. Royalties will be sent every 3 months if someone buys your book 4. You will be updated monthly for your book sales CHARGES UPON SENDING YOUR MANUSCRIPT FOR PUBLISHING Foreign authors: 90usd-publishing 30usd- editing( for 100 poems) other books will be charged differently with 0.50usd per 100 words 30usd- NLP registration TOTAL- 150USD payment mode: Paypal address: lovelypoetess95@gmail.com Filipino authors: -4500php publishing -1500php editing for the editor for 100 poems book, 20php per 100 words for stories/novels/documentaries ETCH - 1500- printed copies for the national library of the Philippines -TOTAL FEES- 7500PHP PLS NOTE: Once you have your NLP registration, you are no longer a self-published author.

Call the publisher at 09300004808 for more details!

36