The Official Student Publication of the College of Forestry and Environmental Studies Mindanao State University-Main Campus, Marawi City 9700, Lanao Del Sur, Philippines Vol. 1 No. 1 | A.Y. 2012-2013
what's inside News
feature
Buds 05 12 Wildest Fury of the Storms CFES studs join ISM 06 13 Green Consumerism New CFES, ready to rise 07 14 DENR Updates Faculty Updates 08 15 Reviving the Legacy FES reaches out 09 19 What it Takes.. PhotoNews 10 20 Vox Sylvarum CFES goes native 11 21 Interest Things 22 Ascent to Malindang 26 Quest ‘Yun?
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literary
opinion
Am I Sorry? A Wretched Heart’s Journey Thank You Maiden Around the Autumn Love Hindered No More A Friend Pursuit of Happiness
27 Eco-Terrorism Trash Talk 28 Mining: Seeking riches..? Hithitin Mo!
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SPOOF
editorial
Failed Trip E-Bull Way Shown Naudlot na Lovelife
Missed Call
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The Cover
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“Though I do not believe that a plant will spring up where no seed has been, I have great faith in a seed. Convince me that you have a seed there and I am prepared to expect wonders.” -Henry David Thoreau Theme by Mr. Mark Gregory Rule Photography by Norhanifa Mama Design by Jayson Leigh Segovia Connect with us! Main Office: thE CONSERVATOR Publication Office, Activity Center, College of Forestry and Environmental Studies, MSU-Main Campus, Marawi City 9700, Lanao Del Sur, Philippines Email: theconservator.cfes@yahoo.com Facebook: http//:www.facebook.com/The_Conservator Circulation: 650 copies
Liham ng Palnugot Ang mga boses na parating namumutawi sa ating puso’t isipan na naipapahayag sa mga letra ay sumisimbolo ng kalayaan at pag-asa. Sa ilang dekada ng pagka lugmok sa katamlayang tinatamasa ng mga karaniwang mag-aaral ng kolehiyong ito, ang mga boses ng paghihikahos, sakripisyo at pakikipaglaban upang makamit ang karunungang dapat itinatamasa ay unti-unting binalot ng katahimikan. Ang tawanan at iyakan, sigawan at harutan, tampuhan at yakapan, ay nakakalimutan sa paglipas ng panahon. Maraming pagkakataon na ang nagdaan para gisingin muli ang natutulog na tinta ng mga estudyante, ngunit ito’y naisawalang-bahala lamang. Ngayon ang pagsibol ng bagong binhi ng pag-asa’t pag-ahon sa ating kinalulub-gan, upang mapukaw ang atensiyon sa pagpapahalaga sa interes ng bawat mag-aaral. Tayo ay magdiwang sa pagtupad ng ating mga pangarap na nilimot ng panahon. Iniaalay ang isyung ito sa mga simpleng estudyante na nangangarap na maibahaging muli ang kanilang pagiging makata, ang kanilang mga pananaw at daing; upang tuluyang mabuo ang pagpapahalaga sa sarili. Hari nawa’y patuloy na lumago ang binhing lathalaing ito, upang magsilbing insipirasyon sa lahat.
Sa pagsisimula muli, JLSegovia Jayson Leigh Segovia Punong Patnugot
CUSTODES SYLVARUM
Buds DENDRONS Delta Rho Sigma
Living up with their motto “Conserve, Preserve, and Integrity”, the DENDRONS participated in the outreach program and tree growing activity held in Rogongon, Iligan City on December 14, 2012. As the only fraternity and sorority in the College, they recruited six new members to carry out their core goals. The organization is presently headed by Noroddin Adiong.
EnvironECS Environmental Envoys and Conservationists’ Society
FES Forestry Ecological Society
ForTech
Forestry Technology
JFS
Junior Foresters Society
JFAP
Junior Foresters Association of the Philippines
The EnvironECS held a Clean-up Drive at the Commercial Center and a tree planting activity in front of the CFES Admin Building in line with their celebration of the EnvironECS Week on January 14-20, 2013. This is an annual activity of the organization as they continue to advocate environmental consciousness, through joint efforts.
With the promotion of Environmental Awaneress as the underlying theme of the organization’s recent annual gathering, FES initiated an outreach program in a remote area in Iligan City participated by university constituents, AFP and POs. The group also conducted tree improvement and tree growing activities in the campus. The department ranked First in the Park Beautification Contest during the College Foundation Day. Two Agroforestry major students, Vanessa Eder and Mildred Morallos, graduated with honors.
The year 2012 marked the crafting of the Constitution and By-Laws (CBL) of the organization initiated by its then mayor, Garex Christian Al-ag, with the help of Prof. Rogaciano Miole, Fstr. Jean Magbalot and Fstr. Jenefer Calipusan. A team-building activity and party capped the organization’s accomplishment for the year, along with a tribute to their graduates and the creation of their logo and banner.
The organization held its “3rd Palarong Panggubat (PPG), an annual signature event, from March 1-3, 2013. The competition included leaf, seed, wood, and tree disease identification; surveying and biometry; relay and quiz bowl. They established a new chapter in Caraga State University on February 09, 2013, recruiting 49 new members.
FESSBO
Forestry and Environmental Studies Student Body Organization
With Lorwin Jade Clerino on the helm, the FESSBO initiated various significant activities highlighted by the amendment of the organization’s Constitution and ByLaws, the creation of the FESSBO logo, the Larong Pinoy, boosting students’ participation. They also implemented several projects such as the covered pathway, the waiting shed, and the renovated washrooms.
CFES studs join Interfaith Solidarity Mission at Bukidnon by RABonilla
Ten students of CFES joined the Interfaith Solidarity Mission (ISM) in Malaybalay, Bukidnon on November 17-19, 2012. The activity aimed to gather information on the circumstances surrounding human rights violations, especially the rights of indigenous peoples displaced by mining activities and to conduct a fact-finding mission, geared towards finding a solution to the said problem. The event was initiated by the College Editors Guild of the Philippines (CEGP), in line with its 81st founding anniversary celebration. The Interfaith Solidarity Mission (ISM) was attended by representatives from different schools in Northern Mindanao and some members of partylist groups. The ISM included medical and psycho-social Maricris Cabigas and Aileen Grace Garan conduct a mission, case documentation, and interfaith psychosocial activity with the lumad children at Kaamulan discussions with the affected indigenous communities grounds, Bukidnon. (photo by CAMontejo) primarily with those situated in territories affected by numerous mining investments. Discussions were also held on various human right issues, focusing particularly the “free and prior informed consent” of tribal communities required by Philippine law, which is often violated by investors. #
FESSBO conducts Teambuilding Activity by GADesaca
With the theme: “Developing the Physical, Mental, Social and Cultural Well-Being of the Students of the College of Forestry and Environmental Studies”, the first Larong Pinoy and Skills Competition was held on December 16, 2012 at the college grounds. The officers and senior members of the Forestry and Environmental Studies Student Body Organization (FESSBO), the official organization of all Forestry and Environmental Science students, organized and successfully staged the said sports and skills competition between and among members of the CFES studentry. FESSBO, headed by its then president, Ms. Lorwin Jade Clerino, proudly assured the students, “We want to use the FESSBO funds for the benefit of the whole studentry in order to achieve a harmonious relationship regardless of affiliation or culture”. The one-day team building activity relived traditional games such as Palosebo, Patintero, Luksong Tinik, Chinese Garter, Sack Race and Tug-of-War. The skills competition included Leaf and Wood Identification and Quiz Show. The winners of the different categories are as follows: Palosebo 1st : Junny Culata 2nd : Renan Dagasdas 3rd : Zaldy Matutina Chinese Garter and Limbo Rock Winner: JFAP Sack Race First : JFAP Patintero Winner: Sangkang Group
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file photo will be placed here
FESSBO Secretary Jayllian Sulapas (right) gives final instructions to the participants for the Sack Race Competition. (photo by JBChavez, Jr.)
Tug of War Winner : JFAP Leaf and Wood Identification First: Cherbs Second: JFAP Luksong Tinik Winner : Pakatusan 1 Quiz Show Winner : JFAP Yell Competition Winner : Sangkang Group Prizes for all winners in the competition were awarded in the afternoon of the same day. Overall, the activity was a success judging from the enthusiasm and joy seen in the faces of the participants. The FESSBO President and students are all hoping that the next FESSBO president will continue the legacy. #
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3-D sketch of the proposed CFES Building obtained from the Office of the University Secretary
New CFES Building, ready to rise by JLSegovia
“The construction of the CFES Building is now on its last stage of the bidding process,” said Dr. Mary Joyce Sali, the University Secretary and also the Secretary of the Board of Regents. The 23-million Php infrastructure, which will start very soon, will have two floors with rooms allocated for instruction and laboratory purposes. The new CFES Building will also feature a state-of-the-art Amphitheater and Lecture Hall for large-sized classes. It will be constructed at the southern portion of the Dean’s Office, at the area currently known as the Dendrons’ Park or Bamboo Grove. The funds for the construction of the said building is part of the 1-Billion Php, given to the Mindanao State University System under the Commission on Higher Education Disbursement Acceleration Program (CHED-DAP) for the upgrading and modernization of facilities, equipment and infrastructure of the different campuses of the MSU System. The Marawi Campus was allocated the biggest amount for both infrastructure and equipment projects compared to other campuses of the MSU System. After the approval of the 1-Billion Php budget appropriation to the MSU System, President Macapado Muslim promptly constituted Technical Working Groups (TWGs) tasked with the preparation and implementation plans for infrastructure and equipment projects for the MSU System. The College of Forestry and Environmental Studies (CFES), along with 17 other colleges, is among the beneficiaries of the program. #
CFES attends international forestry event by RLLangit
Regin Rex A. Guerra, a senior Forestry student, participated in the 4th Asian Regional Meet of the International Forestry Students’ Association (IFSA) at the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) on May 20-26, 2013. The regional meeting of the IFSA had for its 2013 theme: “Forestry Mega Trends in Asia Pacific”. Mr. Guerra represented the MSU-College of Forestry and Environmental Studies (CFES) along with five participants from two other state universities, the University of the Philippines Los Regin Rex Guerra (standing third from the right) poses with other Baños (3) and Mariano Marcos State particpants during the Photo Ops at the UP Los Baños Hall. University of Ilocos Norte (2). (photo by IFSA 2013) He presented his paper on the “Flagship Species of Selected Regions in the Philippines”, which includes the species from regions 1 to 12, their description, ecological status, conservation status, threats, and their respective conservation measures. The 6-day event was attended by international representatives from Australia, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Slovenia and Taiwan. The aim of the gathering was to share the culture as well as the status and the recent scientific discoveries in the field of forestry among the participating countries. The meet was made possible through the efforts of the IFSA, College of Forestry and Natural Resources (CFNR) of the UPLB and its partners: South East Asian Research Center in Agriculture (SEARCA), International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Department of Tourism (DOT), Association of Filipino Forestry Students (AFFS), Energy Development Corporation (EDC), and Sunwest Water and Electric Company, Inc. #
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[2012-2013 Faculty Updates]
By GADesaca, JKDecierdo and NRMama Recognizing the need for students to get familiarized with the College officials and returning faculty grantees, ‘Faculty Updates‘ showcases new/renewed administrative designations as well as recent accomplishments of the teaching staff.
Rodrigo S. Pontillas, MSF College Dean Mary Joyce Z. Guinto-Sali, Ph.D.
First Female University Secretary and of the Board of Regents
Gerardo A. Gavine, Ph.D.
Director, Office of Information, Press and Publication Special Assistant, Office of the President
Rogaciano N. Miole, Ph.D.
Special Assistant, Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs
Gloria A. Oanes, Ph.D. Chairperson, Forestry Department Gideon D. Binobo, MSES Chairperson, Environmental Studies Department For. Elias M. Egam Chairperson, Forestry Technology Department Atty. Renato S. Pacaldo, Ph.D.
Returning Faculty, Forestry Department
Doctor of Philosophy in Forest Natural Resources Management State University of New York- Environmental Science and Forestry Dissertation: Greenhouse gas (GHG) potentials of shrub willow biomass crop (Salix x dasyclados) based on the above- and belowground biomass production across a 19-year chronosequence
Romeo G. Bornales, Ph.D.
Returning Faculty, Environmental Studies Department Sabbatical Leave Tracer Study on the Employmentof Environmental Science Graduates
For. Asnawi D. Linga, Ll.B.
Returning Faculty, Forestry Technology Department Study Leave, Bar Exam Review
Nelieta A. Bedoya, MSNRM
Returning Faculty, Environmental Studies Department Doctor of Philosophy in Biology (on-going)
Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology Dissertation: Bioacoustical Characteristics of Mindanao River Toads, Genus Ansonia (ANURA: Bufonidae) Species Complex
CFES at 43, goes elemental
by GCAl-ag
On its 43rd founding anniversary, the College of Forestry and Environmental Studies focused on the challenges of promoting sustainable energy through environmental education. FESSBO, together with the other student organizations of the College, spearheaded activities such as sportsfest, quiz show, parks beautification, and skills competition. To cap the affair, a foundation ball themed the “Night of Elements” was held at the Clubhouse of Marawi Resort Hotel attended by alumni, faculty, staff and students wearing costumes inspired by earth, wind, water and fire. The gathering was also graced RED Adorable delivers his inspirational talk during the Foundation Ball at the Resort Clubhouse, Marawi Resort Hotel. by Forester Arleigh Adorable, the Regional Executive (photo by JLSegovia) Director of DENR Region-IX, who donated a computer set and funded the completion of the girl’s wash room. The night was concluded with Aubrey Carampatana and Sanry Lugo, both of the Environmental Studies Department, being proclaimed as ‘Mr. & Ms. CFES 2012’. #
FES reaches out, at 20
by GADesaca The Forestry Ecological Society (FES) facilitated a tree growing and outreach program in Sitio Kabangahan 1, Barangay Rogongon, Iligan City on December 14, 2012 in line with its 20th year of founding anniversary celebration. It was participated in by about 120 volunteers from various groups, including representatives from the different departments of the MSU Main Campus and civic organizations. Also in attendance were the FES advisers, Fstr. Melvin Disomimba, Fstr. Jean Magbalot and Prof. Gideon Binobo. The activity was conducted in collaboration with Kabangahan-Rogongon Farmer’s Association (KaRoFa), a people’s organization (PO) and holder of a Community Based Forestry Management Agreement (CBFMA). After the tree growing activity, the facilitator Kabangahan kids actively join the psychosocial games hosted games and gave away donations of used clothes, facilitated by one of the participating organization. goods and other useful materials to the residents (photo by JLSegovia) who were one of the badly affected populace of the Bagyong Sendong, whose living conditions has been worsened by remoteness of the area. “It feels satisfying and overwhelming because the intention of the program were achieved, which are to help the environment and to give joy to traumatized children”, Mr. Zobair Sidic, one of the facilitators, conveyed. The 103rd Haribon Brigade, 41st Mechanized Infantry Company Armor Cavalry and the Civil Community Operation Army, assumed responsibility for the safety of the participants. #
CFES, IPDM promote green energy drive by CAMontejo
CFES collaborated with the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) in hosting a seminar on “Facing the Challenges of Mainstreaming Sustainable Energy for All through Environmental Education” on July 9, 2012. The event was one of the highlights of the college founding celebration held annually and was attended by college alumni and MSU constituents. It is an information, education, campaign initiative of the college; to update students, faculty and officials from other units of recent environmental conservation efforts. The theme was based on the campaign of the Dir. Matuan of the IPDM stresses the importance international community for Sustainable Energy as of Al-Khalifa, one of the teachings in Islam, in the a means of adaptation to and mitigation of climate protection of the environment. (photo by JLSegovia) change. The speakers included Dr. Moctar I. Matuan, the Executive Director of IPDM, who discussed on Al-Khalifa or Environmental Stewardship; Engr. Gerardo C. Baula, Jr. of the National Power Corporation, who tackled about Mindanao Watershed Management and the NPC Agus River Hydroelectric Powerplant; and Prof. Arthur H. Tambong, the Director of the MSU Affiliated Renewable Energy Center, who talked about the different renewable energy initiatives of the campus and Software-Aided Feasibility Study Preparation. #
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Wi n ni ng Re c ip e. Sinig ang ala Forestr y gains t he ju d ges‘ f avor du r ing t he Haing Pinoy C o ok ing C omp et it ion org an iz e d by E co - Tour is m stude nt s . (photo by J L S eg ov ia)
Winning Moment. Regional Executive Director Forester ArLeigh Adorable (right) of DENR R-IX donates a new set of PC to the college, which is recieved by Dean Rodrigo Pontillas. (photo by Fstr. Melvin Disomimba)
Winning Project. FESSBO President Lorwin Jade Clerino takes the initiative of putting up a covered pathway and a waiting shed for students’ protection during rainy days. (photo by NRMama)
Winning shot. Walls of the CFES Annex Building sustain damages during the ambush incident on August 9, 2012. (photo by JLSegovia)
MSU-CFES, ARMM engages in 3.5 million greening deal
By RR Guerra In support of EO 26 or the National Greening Program of Pres. Aquino, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed between the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) and the Mindanao State University (MSU) on February 14, 2011 at the Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao (IPDM) for a 3.5 million greening project, with the College of Forestry and Environmental Studies as the main implementing body. The project is aimed on the construction of a nursery in the campus that can supply 500,000 seedlings of fruit trees and forest trees annually, to stakeholders in Lanao del Sur. This is also part of the national government’s campaign for a massive reforestation of the country, to produce 1.5B trees that will be planted in 1.5M hectares of plantable lands. Present in the signing of the MOA on the “Establishment of Forest Tree Nursery and Seedling Production of Forest Tree Species in Mindanao State University” was no less than the ARMM Regional Governor Mujiv S. Hataman, the Regional Director of the Department of Environmental Science and Natural Resources (ARMM) Hadji Kahal Kedtag, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Fstr. Cosain Abbas, MSU System President Macapado A. Muslim, and the then CFES Dean Gerardo A. Gavine. The event was also attended by other officials of the ARMM and DENR, University constituents, and students. Institutional capability and commitment were two of the important considerations in the selection of the MSU College of Forestry and Environmental Studies, to implement the project in this part of the region. The implementation of the project is being coordinated by the Fstr. Abbas, the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO), who himself recommended the CFES to handle the project as it will also be a good avenue for student and faculty researches. #
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CFES goes native,
Taps indigenous species for greening project by RRGuerra and JKDecierdo
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n 2011, the Philippine Forestry Education Network, Incorporated (PFEN) Inc. inked a fiveyear engagement with Philippine Tropical Forest Conservation Foundation (PTFCF) Inc. for the implementation of the Rainforestation Technology, a regeneration technology first developed by the Visayas State University (VSU) in Baybay, Leyte. Being an active founding member of PFEN, MSU-CFES was selected as one of the first ten State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) to implement the project. The college signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on October 2011 with PFEN and the PTFCF for the repair and improvement of CFES nursery facilities and capacitate it with 20,000 seedlings of native trees. It also required the college to establish a demonstration area showcasing the restoration of degraded ecosystems using native tree species. Quality, not just Quantity PTFCF and PFEN agreed to engage in the project in support of E.O. 26 or the National Greening Program (NGP) of the Aquino administration. They saw it as an opportunity to promote the production and growing of native trees to replace the utilization of non-native species such as mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) and gmelina (Gmelina arborea), in traditional reforestation programs of the Philippine government. The MSU project adopted the Rainforestation Technology developed by the Institute of Tropical Forestry (ITE) of the Visayas State University (VSU) in collaboration with GTZ, a German entity. The innovative technology is a “closed canopy and high diversity forest farming system” that attempts to restore and rehabilitate deforested areas using indigenous tree species and preserve biodiversity, while at the same time sustaining human food production. “We understand the need of the country to fast track the planting of more trees to prevent more catastrophes such as Ondoy. Planting non-native trees will not solve the entire problem but rather create new ones. As James LaFrankie puts it, ‘a plantation of mahogany is a biodiversity kill-zone.’ In the end, we have to consider the quality of trees that we plant and not just the numbers,” said Dr. Pacencia Milan of VSU, one of the developers of the Rainforestation technology. Growing a Forest Prior to project implementation, a seminar on Rainforestation Technology was hosted by CFES in the
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Academic Complex of the College of Law on January 26, 2012 to inform the university constituents of the project and solicit their involvement in the endeavor. The resource speakers were Dr. Priscila Dolom and Prof. Edgar Devera of UP-Los Baños representing PFEN, and Mr. Jimmy O. Pogosa of VSU. The former OISCA project of the College Agriculture was selected as the Rainforestation demonstration area. Previously serving as pasture land of individual farmers and the Philippine Carabao Center, the one-hectare rolling land is a kilometer away from the college. At present, 44 species of seedlings and wildlings totaling to 2,000 planting stocks, mostly fast growing native species, were transplanted alternately in terms of the species composition in order to imitate the spatial arrangement of the plant species in the forest. The area will also serve as a research site for students and faculty members. The improvement of the existing CFES nursery facilities is also in the works. Additional structures were constructed such as recovery chambers, seedbeds, transfer beds and hardening plots. Different organizations were tapped to participate in the project. The Project Heads, in collaboration with Forestry Ecological Society (Alpha Chapter), hosted a tree growing activity in the demo area. A total of 107 volunteers showed up from various campus organizations as well as representatives from different colleges of the university. The organizers hoped that the endeavor will not stop in the planting of trees alone, but will extend to ensuring the growth of the planted materials. “This is a five-year contract between PFEN and CFES. We are on its second year of operation and the outcome is so far good”, Fstr. Melvin U. Disomimba, member of PFEN Project Team said in an interview. The Team The project is spearheaded by Dr. Gerardo Gavine as the Project Leader, Prof. Rodrigo Pontillas as Assistant Project Leader, Mr. Mark Gregory Q. Rule as head of Seedling/Wildlings Collection & Rainforestation Area Management, and For. Melvin U. Disomimba as head of Nursery Preparation & Maintenance and Rainforestation Area Establishment and Maintenance. At present, they are working on the phenological survey of MSU’s indigenous tree species and the databasing of the native tree species of MSU. They are also planning on the incorporation of agricultural crops in the demo farm. #
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wildest fury of the storms by JKDecierdo
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ouis Pasteur once said: “Chance favors the prepared mind.” Scientists have warned us for decades that pumping greenhouse gases into the earth’s atmosphere will cause the global temperature to rise and the result will be more catastrophic. Freedom from typhoons is one of nature’s promises to Mindanao. For most of the years past, countless storms have entered the Philippines’ area of responsibility, but skipped making landfall on the island. Since 1945, only 35 typhoons have made landfall in the island in a country that has a usual average of 20 storms annually. According to experts, Mindanao’s location, being close to the equator, makes it less likely to be hit by typhoons or storms on a regular basis. The current storms’ trajectory may be due to the increasing threat of global warming that the world now is said to be experiencing. But many were unprepared for killer typhoons “Sendong” and “Pablo”. Sendong’s death toll topped 1,453 people making it the world’s deadliest storm in 2011. Northern Mindanao suffered devastating losses when the typhoon triggered massive flashfloods in the cities of Cagayan De Oro and Iligan. Subsequent investigations revealed that the devastation was worsened by the combined effects of disaster unpreparedness, illegal logging, and agricultural expansion. One reason for Sendong’s high death toll is that it struck at night when many of its victims were asleep. There is of course the reality of climate abnormality. A year later, Pablo struck, proving to be the deadliest in years, as noted by “Global Catastrophe Recap”. The areas devastated by the typhoon are geographically and ecologically connected to places where massive logging operations have been taking place for decades. That and the sheer power of the typhoon left the country with 1,901 casualties and P37 Billion worth of damages to property. The blitz of typhoon Pablo revealed to be worse compared to the damage caused by storm Sendong in the island of Mindanao. More importantly though, it revealed to the entire nation what can happen when nature’s wrath is coupled with persistent extraction of natural resources. Thousands of people were killed after flash floods accompanied by fallen trees and boulders, swamped some of the communities in the province of Compostela Valley and Davao Oriental. Hundreds of others remained missing. The nation’s experience with the two catastrophes should have taught the Aquino administration that there are more things to be done in order to prevent more loss of lives during extreme weather events. Presently, environmental protection measures and even social justice has not yet been given to some Sendong victims. Up to now, the Government has yet to institute far and deep-reaching reforms for disaster
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preparedness, land use planning and environmental protection, protection of natural resources and rehabilitation of vulnerable and degraded lands. The atrocity the typhoons wrought, revealed the Government’s inability to institute effective disaster preparedness and response systems in grassroots communities. It likewise exposed the failure to regulate the extraction of natural resources such as timber and to rehabilitate logged-over forests. Data from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) show that deforestation has worsened since 2006 due to the increasing incidence of unemployment and poverty. Many of the illegal logging activities occurred in the CARAGA Region in concession areas covered by expired Timber License Agreements (TLAs), and many of the areas affected are of this region, not to mention the fact that majority of these areas are situated in the Diwata Mountain Range. On a comprehensive front, there is the concern about global warming. High amount of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, exacerbates the supposedly naturally occuring climate change, the primary cause of irregular climate patterns and occurrences of storms and typhoons. These highly complex processes combined with environmental injustice results to inumerable physical and emotional damages and worse, loss of lives. This should make us realize that the phenomena we experienced the previous years could be a part of a new array of inconvenient events. Accepting this as a permanent reality, it must now be confronted with concrete solutions. Land degradation must be reversed, which means putting strict regulations to all logging and mining activities in all areas including ARMM. A massive reforestation and revegetation efforts must be sincerely launched by the government. However, as the Government takes significant steps towards progress, the people must also accept the mostly ignored fact that we also have a very important role to play in this issue. As causes of the degradation of our environment ourselves, we too need to take on the task of contributing to the government’s endeavor in implementing adoption and abatement measures. Denial, poor understanding and ignoring the risk, all three combined, is always a recipe for disaster. All is somehow connected and the good thing is we can do something to change this truth for the better. Even though storms and typhoons are both naturally occurring phenomena and, yes, it cannot be prevented, its effects can be minimized and mitigated. We must remember that most of the answers we need are within our grasp, we only have to become quiet enough to hear it. Disregard not the nature’s cry. Continually do so and be ready to face the wildest fury of the storms. #
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By KOKuizon, Contributor
Gre en C onsu m eri sm : Is it really possible?
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n an increasing interdependent world, it is imperative that we, the citizens of the Earth, declare our responsibility to one another, to the greater community of life, and to the future generations. The Earth community stands at a defining moment. Fundamental changes in our attitudes, values and ways of lives are necessary. Therefore, in a spirit of solidarity and kinship with all life, many environmental groups now claim that we all should practice green consumerism. Others may say that living green is not easy. Even with the help of endorsement programs, doing the right thing from an environmental perspective may not be obvious. Often, we are faced with complicated choices. For example, in switching from Freon propellants to hydrocarbons, we spare the stratospheric ozone but increase hydrocarboncaused smog. By choosing reusable diapers over disposable ones, we decrease the amount of material going to the landfill, but we also increase demand for detegents and eventually, increase water pollution. When the grocery store clerk asks you, “Paper or plastic?” you probably would choose paper and feel environmentally virtuous, right? Everyone knows that plastic is made through synthetic chemical processes from non-renewable petroleum or natural gas. Paper from naturally growing trees is a better environmental choice, isn’t it? Well, not necessarily. In the first place, paper making consumes water and causes much more water pollution than does plastic manufacturing. Paper mills also release air pollutants. Furthermore, the brown paper bags used in supermarkets are made primarily from virgin paper. Recycled fibers aren’t strong enough for the weight they must carry. Growing, harvesting and transporting logs from agroforestry plantations can be as environmentally disruptive as oil production. It takes a great deal of energy to pulp wood and dry newly made paper. Paper is also heavier and bulkier to ship than plastics. Although the polyethylene used to make plastic bags contains many calories, in the end, paper bags are generally more energy-intensive to produce and market than plastic ones. If both paper and plastics go to landfills in our communities, the plastic bag takes up less space. It doesn’t decompose in the landfill, but neither does the paper in an air-tight, water-tight landfill. If paper is recycled but plastic is not, then the paper bag may be the better choice. If you are lucky enough to have both paper and plastic recycling, the plastic bag is probably a better choice since it recycles more easily and produces less pollution in the process. Complicated, isn’t it? We often must make decisions without complete information, but it’s important to make the best choices we can. Don’t assume that your friends are wrong if they reach conclusions different from yours. They may have valid considerations of which you are unaware of. The truth is that simple black and white answers often don’t exist. Taking personal responsibility for your environmental impact can have many benefits. Recycling, buying “green” products, and other environmental actions not only set good examples for your friends and neighbors, they also strengthen your sense of involvement and commitment in valuable ways. There are limits, however, to how much we can do individually through our buying habits and personal actions to bring about the fundamental changes needed to save the Earth. Green consumerism generally can do little about the larger issues of global inequity, chronic poverty, oppression and the suffering of millions of people in the developing world; but environmental degradation also causes such. There is a danger that exclusive focus on debates as to whether to choose paper or plastic bags, or to sort recyclables for which there are no markets, will divert our attention from the greater need to change basic institutions. Such issue is a stalemate. #
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DENR UPDATES As most of the students are and will be taking up environmental laws, here are some of the selected memoranda issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for 2012-2013. For those who will be taking their board exams, this is a must-read. For those students who do not want to embarassingly stand up in class the entire semester, here are the answer to your prayers. IDENTIFIER
Title
Date
JOINT MC DENR-DILGCOMMELEC 2013-01
Basura-Free Elections 2013 “Kalat Ko, Sisinupin Ko”
2013/04/02
DAO 2013-13
Establishing the Provisional National Ambient Air Quality Guideline Values for Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5)
2013/03/07
DAO 2013-12
Guidelines for the Implementation of the Sustainable Coral Reef Ecosystems Management Program (SCREMP)
2013/02/25
DAO 2013-10
Increasing Fees for Mining Applications
2013/02/21
DAO 2013-11
Procedural Guidelines in the Filing and Processing of Applications for Exploration Permit Pursuant to Executive Order No. 79
2013/02/21
DMO 2013-01
Increasing the Minimum Capital Requirements for Mining Applicants
2013/02/21
DAO 2013-08
Adoption of the Integrated Water Quality Management Framework
2013/02/13
DAO 2013-09
Establishment of Provincial Environment and Natural Resources (PENR) Office in San Jose, Province of Dinagat Islands
2013/02/13
DMC 2013-03
Additional List of Classified Water Bodies
2013/01/17
DAO 2012-10
Adopting the 2011-2016 Integrated Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) Research Development and Extension (RDE) Framework and Mainstreaming it in all Relevant Activities of the Department
2012/12/28
DMO 2012-02
Uniform Replacement Ratio for Cut or Relocated Trees
2012/11/05
DMC 2012-03
List of Classified Caves
2012/10/30
DAO 2012-08
Declaring the Coastal Area of Carmen, Agusan Del Norte as Critical Habitat for Marine Turtles
2012/10/08
DAO 2012-06
Implementing Guidelines on the Operationalization of the National Water Quality Management Fund Under Republic Act No. 9275
2012/09/11
DAO 2012-07
Rules and Regulations to Implement Executive Order No. 79 Dated 06 July 2012 Entitled : Institutionalizing and Implementing Reforms in the Philippine Mining Sector Providing Policies and Guidelines to Ensure Environmental Protection and Responsible Mining in the Utilization of Mineral Resources
2012/09/10
DAO 2012-05
Guidelines on Surveillance, Monitoring, Prevention, Control and Reporting of Forest Pests
2012/08/28
EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 79
Institutionalizing and Implementing Reforms in the Philippine Mining 2012/07/06 Sector Providing Policies and Guidelines to Ensure Environmental Protection and Responsible Mining in the Utilization of Mineral Resources
DMC 2012-02
Creation of the Land Administration Management System (LAMS) National Coordinating Desk at the Land Management Bureau for the Monitoring of LAMS Implementation Nationwide
2012/06/13
DAO 2012-03
Amendment of DAO-2011-09 - ”Supplementary Provisions to DAO No. 2008-14 Re-Guidelines on the Conduct of Bidding and Awarding of Cadastral Survey Project Contracts Pursuant to R.A. 9184”
2012/05/21 source: www.denr.gov.ph
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FEATURE | Vol. 1 No. 1
rebirth |AY 2012-2013
R e v i v i n g t h e L e g acy
A decade of hibernation is what best describes what the College student publication has gone through. The voice of CFES students had been deafeningly silent during all those years. Many of those students who’ve been told that the college had a student publication in the past even doubted it ever existed. Undoubtedly, a decade of being buried in the silence of memories has resulted in the students’ thirst for some instrument that will hear their cries, draw attention to their sentiments and opinions, and showcase their talents and skills.
A Call to Arms Most of the CFES faculty Dr. Gerardo Gavine, one of the advisers of the student publication, stresses the importance of journalism during the first official meeting with the editorial board and staff at the didn’t want to just put an end campus Audio-Visual Room. (photo by NRMama) to what they have started in the past. As former members of the publication themselves, they knew and understood the college’s need for a student publication - an avenue where they can share their knowledge and experiences through campus journalism. In this regard, they conducted free journalism seminars geared towards resurrecting the student publication. They invited students whom they believe had the potential of being writers to join the seminars. In fact, they even resorted to enticing the students with incentives for those who can submit articles. Unfortunately however, the first batch of prospective editorial staff members were not able to publish because of reasons mostly bordering on the lack of commitment on their part. Nothing happened until five student leaders from different organizations in the college took the necessary steps in making the big leap of change. This time they were given a certain degree of freedom by the advisers to establish an interim Editorial Board. Though most of them have only little experience with journalism, they didn’t let their apparent incapacities rule over them. Instead, they took it as a challenge to prove to themselves that they can do it. They took it as an opportunity to improve their knowledge and broaden their experience in campus journalism. Above all, it was to heed the call of their hearts to serve and arm the students of the information they ought to know about the college and the University as a whole. This served as their main driving force in taking the initial steps towards reviving the publication. A Single Giant Leap Though the road towards revival seemed bumpy and endless in the beginning, they didn’t let the fear for the unknown consume them. Colleagues involved in other campus publication served as inspiration to continue their journey. They hosted a free Basic Orientation Seminar at the college where the vital aspects in campus journalism and journalism ethics were discussed by the Editor-in-Chief Mr. Mike Ariel Plaza and Associate Editor Ms. Mary Louise Omelio of the Mindanao Varsitarian, the official student publication of the university. In the end, twenty (20) students accepted the invitation to undergo the three phases of the screening process. After a thorough evaluation of their works, the advisers endorsed nine (9) applicants who proceeded to the final phase. Fortunately, all nine applicants passed the final screening. Subsequent to the success in the search for the new staff members of the publication, The Conservator had its first official meeting at the CFES Audio-Visual Room (AVR) together with the advisers. In that meeting, the roles and responsibilities of each member were identified. Furthermore, the Editorial Board selection was also held with Jayson Leigh Segovia serving as Editor in Chief, Regin Rex Guerra and Garex Christian Al-ag as Associate Editors, Lorwin Jade Clerino as Managing Editor and Charles Montejo as Assistant Managing Editor. #
AY 2012-2013| rebirth
Vol. 1 No. 1 | FEATURE
15
ma
ani fold
OF OUR PHILIPPINE FORESTS REMAIN. THAT’S FOOD, WATER, TREES AND WILDLIFE. WE NEED AT LEAST 54% TO HAVE A HEALTHY ECOSYSTEM.
WHAT WILL YOU DO?
Concept inspired by Haribon Foundation
. . s e k a t t What i By GADesaca
Of the 440 takers of the annual forester’s board examination held in Davao and Manila on July 15-16, 2012, two MSUans made it to the top. Fstr. Alilah Leah Gerodias ranked second and Fstr. Junmark “Bossing“ Bernaldez placed tenth in the 2012 Forestry Licensure Examination. Many are wondering what their secrets are that made them the cream of the crop. Luckily for us, we caught up with Fstr Bernaldez who shared to us what it takes to succeed… Who is [are] your source[s] of inspiration? First is GOD, because without him, I can’t do anything. Second is my family because they were the ones who supported me. And the third one is my special someone because she always pushed me to the top. What were the memorable experiences you had when you were a student? Well, the most memorable experience is the Dendrology examinations handled by Fstr Joseph Manlisis and courses handled by Dr. Rogaciano Miole, which were so difficult that I thought I wouldn’t pass. Thanks to GOD, I made it. What was the biggest challenge you encountered in preparation for your board exam? After the review classes in Caraga State University, we had a month to prepare and self-review. However, during that time, I got sick. Many problems arose also including financial matters. But those challenges inspired me to do better. How did you find out you made it to the top ten passers list? My friend, Charmaine, texted and informed me that my name was on the top ten of the list of passers who topped the examination posted on Facebook. At first, I did not believe her but I received a text message from some MSU friends and thus I requested my brother to check the veracity of the information. I felt so happy that I even cried while my mother hugged me. She was crying too. (laughs)
AY 2012-2013| rebirth
What doors opened since then? CENRO-Cantilan and CENRO-Lianga both offered me a job. But Mhai Ranises, a college friend, called me and asked that if I’m interested to work in the DENR Regional Office in Butuan, I would just submit my application to her. The rest is history. What and how is your work right now? I’m currently working in the Planning Department of the Office of the Regional Executive Director of DENR R13. At first, I was not at ease with my work because it’s more on making reports, contrary with the work I like most - fieldwork. Hence, I’m still coping and, hopefully in due time, I’ll get the hang of it and do my job better. What can you advise CFES students? Listen attentively to your instructors when it is time to review for the board exam. When you study, even if you have no motivation to do so, just read the review materials. Photocopy also the review materials that were used by former students who took the examination and exchange materials with others. Above all, pray and don’t think of any problems when taking the examinations. What does it take to be top board passer? The only formula that I could share is “Study plus Prayer equals Success”. Study hard but don’t overdo it, give yourself time to relax and play as well. Most of all, always seek the guidance of the LORD in everything you do. *** Meanwhile, Fstr Alilah Leigh Gerodias is currently working at the Forest Utilization Unit under the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Bunawan, Agusan del Sur . She is an honorary member of the Junior Foresters Assocation of the Philippines in CARAGA State University Chapter. #
Vol. 1 No. 1 | FEATURE
19
x vo um r a v l sy
N
agagalak at nagpapasalamat ang buong staff ng The Conservator sa mga estudyanteng personal na nagpaabot at nagbatid ng kanilang mga hinaing na ipinababatid sa kinauukulan. Bagama’t ito’y tumatalakay sa mga sentimiyentong nais mailathala, nais po naming ipaabot na ito po’y walang personalan at trabaho lang. Ang mga isinusulat sa pahinang ito ay batay lamang sa mga nalikom na mga pahayag mula sa mga rehistradong estudyante ng CFES; walang labis, walang kulang.
“The Department of Forestry is unfair in the equal treatment of the students particularly during the enrolment period concerning the pre- requisite subjects.“ -Anonymous “Kumusta po ba ang pera ng Forestry Technology Department? Lahat po ba ng binabayad namin ay napupunta sa tama?” -Tiki tiki Girl “Repaint the buildings please para “May mga pagtuturo po na halos wala nindot ato college.” –Anonymous II kaming maunawaan.” -El Sentimiyentos “As I know, there are plenty of staff in the College. Where are they? To those who don’t do their jobs, magbanat naman kayo ng buto. Watch out baby.” -Open_Minded Ang Wood Works naging Casino. Pag may kailangan, laging wala, BS Poker. –Rattan
Lisod iapproach ang some college officials when it comes to funds. -Gotraj
The College Fee. Masyadong malaki binabayaran pero din rin namin nakikita kung saan napupunta yung binabayaran namin. Every year tumataas ng tumataas ang bayarin. Tapos yung mga fines, saan ba talaga napupunta ‘yon?” -”Jam” Marindig Diron Yung pre-reg, hindi nasusunod yung sinusulat na subjects at saka yung units. -Mirana Kulang po sa gamit ang CFES, especially when it comes to field activities. Halos luma po lahat. -Tiki tiki Girl May mga projects na nakabinbin parin hanggang ngayon. -Cute_Bear Sa ibang staff: Please observe your designated task. Duty on time and do your obligations. -Concerned Citizen Meron pong hindi pantay sa grade giving. Pabor po ay umaayon sa mga babae lamang. -El Sentimiyentos Mabagal ang enrollment at kulang ang units. -Nevermore
Class should be done on the prescribed/ official university schedule, not before or after the sked. -Stemborlites
‘Yung C.R., tanong ko lang. C.R. paba ‘yun? Masyadong madumi eh. Dapat palaging may tubig. -Johailliah <3 Dapat marami yung computers na ginagamit sa pag-enroll ng mga subjects. Yung enrolling officers hindi maagang pumupunta sa College. Kawawa yung mga estudyante. -Phantom ng artikulong ito ay bukas sa mga kasagutan at panayam mula sa mga apektado. Para sa gusto A ng mag-abot ng kanilang mga sentimiyento, dumulog lamang sa alinmang staff ng lathalaing ito. #
t
Interes
tion. limita ity s no of curios a h ner ing Learn ss a mane. Posse in a whil once
Ihinqs
“The more I read, the more I acquire, the more certain I am that I know nothing.”-Voltaire an ger t h i s bi g
’s e y e st r ich * A n oa i n . ir eyes it s br ith the w w wallo can’t s sic. *Frogs by mtuw i c e d e t open. c e e s ics. e af f h oum us ite s ar you r * Teer ym w i l l euatp l ay l ou d o h T ast if y low. o swal as f t y it v ra need g *Birds
ends ish that co the rubbdu n uld bi st *Over 55e%trof or an hc up in th ed. as be recycl s Sunday e each 0 wtreeeek’s must be *To proderuc 00 0, 50 newspapn s, cut dow
*Most Lipsticks cont
*An ostrich’s ey e is
T he la rg es t ca ve in th e w or ld is in d Vie tn am an ha s it s ow n fo re st s an d de cl ou ds in si of it !
ain fish scales.
bigger than its br ain. *Elephants are the only mammal that can’t jump. *Lonesome Geo rge is one of Dar win’s pets. *Rainforests are being cut down of 100 acres pe at the rate r minute.
*Lemons contain more sugar than strawberries. *85% of plant life is found in the ocean. *A lobster’s blood is colorless but when exposed to oxygen it turns blue. *Reindeers like bananas. *Longest recorded flight of a chicken was 13 seconds. *For every human there are 200 million insects. *Kiryat Yam in Israel is offering $1,000,000 for someone who can present an actual footage of a real mermaid.
emy of Cell Biop hysi cs of the Russ ian Acadseed s of ted nera rege lly essfu succ s Scie ntist eae) from Silen e sten ophy lla (Car yoph yllac 00 year s. fruit that had been froz en for 30,0 the olde st This whit e-flo were d Silen e is a seed . from n grow be to ever t plan
Sources: http://www.didyouknow.com http://fun.twilightwap.com Animal Planet-Mermaids:The Body Found
AY 2012-2013| rebirth
Vol. 1 No. 1 | FEATURE
21
Ascent to Mt. Malindang
Beyond the Mountains and the Forests, the Wilderness that was… by RRGuerra When I first heard that the 2013 summer field practice will be held in Mt. Malindang, I was reluctant. I heard negative talks from my friends who have been there during their field trips that the place is leechinfested and just getting to the practicum area will take a day’s hike. The practicum class was divided into two teams Team Ozamis and Team Malindang. I was one of the nine students who were assigned to the Mt. Malindang Range and Natural Park Protected Area Office (MMRNP-PAO). Though hesitant at first, I was excited at the same time. I did not complain despite my health risks. I took it as challenge to prove to myself that I can perform the tasks of being a future forester, not just on the four corners of a classroom but even in the real world as well. It is also an academic requirement mandatory for all forestry students - a venue for the application of the foundation courses in forestry. That left me little choice but to suck it up and let the thrills of Mt. Malindang blow me. Rising to the Challenge Indeed, my friends were right. It took us five hours of grueling walk to reach the Mt. Malindang Rainforestation Nursery. We sometimes have to make trails of our own. The trail requires passing through rocky terrains and cruising rivers. Along the way, slimy leeches await in branches and stagnant waters to take a sip of your blood. You will not notice it until the leech has had its filling, it looks straight out from a horror show. We passed terrains with slopes of more or less 75°-80°, with cogon and thorny tree ferns as the primary vegetation cover. If you slip, you may have to sacrifice your hands to the thorns or the sharp cogon leaves. Another trial was traversing the dry river with huge rocks covered with moss. Mt. Malindang is blessed with several rivers. However, crossing one is a test of balance and teamwork. Nevertheless, trekking those perilous trails were worth it. There was an unexplainable feeling of fulfillment when we reach the peak. The feat of rising up to the challenges of Mt. Malindang is an achievement that will always linger in my memory. Getting Used to Peculiar Environs Apart from the “buwis buhay” terrains, Mt. Malindang has many odd environments. At an altitude of more than 1,500 masl with freezing temperatures, one will not expect to be treated by a relaxing hot bath. But that’s just what Brgy. Sebucal’s hot spring provided us. The sulfur-rich natural wonder relieved our body pains from the rigorous work in the field and saved us a week’s soap. An enchanting crater lake called “Lake Duminagat” is another oddity of the place. The locals traditionally perform rituals before doing activities in the lake, asking for permission from the spirits of their deceased ancestors that believed to reside in the lake. Though the river is surrounded by trees, you can observe that there are no leaf litters floating in the surface of the lake.
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FEATURE | Vol. 1 No. 1
These eccentricities however do not match to the relaxing feel that its calm waters provide. Meeting the Natives The communities in Malindang are dominated by the Subanens and few migrants. We did not have to stay long to notice some good attributes of the Subanens. They are supportive of the conservation efforts of the PAO and its partners in the protection and preservation of Mt. Malindang wilderness. They are also hospitable, offering even their homes for transients like us. They are also responsible to their duty as social fence of the protected area against illegal intruders. Their rights over their ancestral domains are being respected by the Protected Area Office. We were able to witness a traditional ritual before initiating a certain project, where the community gathered together led by their Tribal Leader called “Timuay” and Tribal Priest called “Baylan” with DENR officials. It was my first time to see an event, a proof that they have preserved their customs. On the other hand, the said event is a manifestation of the observance of Prior Informed Consent (PIC), one of the requirements stipulated in the NIPAS Act and Indigenous Peoples Rights Act. It’s a showcase of a good relationship between the PA Office and the people of Mt. Malidang. During the field practice, we facilitated three Information, Education, Campaigns (IEC) at three strategic locations. The first one was about First Aid Training in partnership with the Philippine Red Cross, Oroquieta Chapter. The second was at Brgy. Marugang, and was about the National Greening Program and its relevance to their community. The third league was the Training on Organic Farming held at Brgy. Lake Duminagat, in collaboration with the City Environment and Natural Resources Office of Oroquieta City. A Learning Experience My understanding of the profession was strengthened and broadened with my actual encounter to the real world of forestry. The importance of people’s participation in the planning and implementation was indeed key to the success of the programs and projects carried out by the PA Office and its partner institutions, making the forest community as a partner in the conservation endeavors of the government. The practice of forestry is indeed a service to humanity. Our responsibility is not just merely planting or growing trees, it’s also ensuring the preservation of our rich biodiversity, which includes both the ecological and cultural aspects of the environment. The Summer Practicum is a venue to apply what you learned from the foundation courses in forestry and having them applied in actual field situations. It serves as a way of evaluating yourself with regards to the aspect of readiness to the real world in the practice of the forestry profession. My ascent to Mt. Malindang was a life changing experience. What a wilderness it was…
rebirth |AY 2012-2013
THE OFFICIAL EMBLEM
SKY B LUE AIR
Sun Awareness and Transparency
pen PUBLICATION
FACE STUDENTRY
EYE
B LUE WATER
VIGILANCE
GREEN BROWN
FOREST
SOIL
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS THE CONSERVATOR is in need of the following: #Staff Writers #Lay-out Artist (works with Adobe InDesign or CorelDraw) #Junior Cartoonists #Photojournalists If you think you have what it takes, contact the Editor to try out.
Maiden Around The Autumn (A poem dedicated to Ante)‘Cle
Entrapped by the charming beauty of her existence Retained by the captivating smile that petrified every man Levitated one’s soul as her sweet voice echo with the Autumn winds Yearned for her angelic presence that made everyone felt they were in paradise Nestled into never-ending delight with spectacles of her persona ‘Tis tacit sensations ignited rivalry of promising knights-in-shining-armor Hindered by elites wooing for love and affection, Unallowed to tail the fad of the aristocrats and the monarchs ‘Tis modest Shakespeare remained in shadows of silence and fantasy Oblique demeanor clouded the world from his gaze veiled in civility and simplicity Receding behavior slowly captured, ‘tis lovely maiden’s attention “Uncle” became the word of salutation, ‘tis romantic poet Ever delighted by a simple recognition discerned with infinite pleasure Dared by fate to confess the softest joy in the pearl of the purest hue “Ante”, a name engraved in perpetuity She has been, is, and will always be the only one Shakespeare enamors.
A FRIEND
The letters of her name became foundations of chef-d’oeuvre.
Am I Sorry? Dictator_23
Am I sorry for not being perfect? Yes! I am ‘coz I think I’ve hurt her! Am I sorry for not being a true friend? Yes! ‘coz being untrue I pushed her away! Am I sorry for keeping a secret? Yes! ‘coz secrets have been the root of her grimace Am I sorry for not an open person? Yes! ‘coz she also started to close her door Am I sorry for being too shy? Yes! ‘coz she felt that I don’t trust her
-fememe-
Pain thrives in me, so light yet so heavy, And it is slowly killing me badly. Someone help me please, I’m begging so depressed, Oh! There you are, From out of nowhere suddenly you appear. Thank you.. Now, my existence breathes again, Breathing again hopes until the end. But why after things gets easier and sober, A sudden stroke of arrow flies with cinnabar. Happiness fades and irritability enters, My psyche slows down same with my reflexes. What is happening? I thought you can help me! I can’t breathe, I am afraid. Feeling numb penetrates my entire being, And now, I am slowly dying. I thought you are a friend that will help me forever, But now I realize that your true essence is to send me to hell forever. I hate myself for being acquainted with you. Not knowing your true character. Drugs, you are a friend who leads me to my funeral undertaker.
Am I sorry for being emotionally silent? Yes! ‘coz she also learned to become mute Am I sorry for not being there when she needs me? Yes! ‘coz she thought I don’t care at all
Thank You
Am I sorry for being too close to others? Partially Yes! ‘coz it made her feel less important Am I sorry for not keeping her secrets sometimes? Yes! ‘coz it made her feel I’m worthless, I’m unfaithful
Sittie Najmah B. Ambor Like the sunlight to plant, Your craziness shines my day. Like the water to fish, Your presence erases my worries.
Am I sorry for myself being hated by my best friend? Yes! A big yes ‘coz it made me cry silently, it made my heart bleed unwontedly. Yes ‘coz she hates me, my best friend hates me Like the hen to her chick, You warm my soul with your soft hands. But I am sorry for choosing her as my friend? Like the metal to a magnet, of course I am NOT, for she is one of a kind Your kindness makes me want to hug you forever. Maybe imperfect yet so true, so fragile!
Like the cloud to the sky, I want to travel in your world. Like the mountain to trees, I’m grateful to have a friend like you.
Care. Hope. Trust.
Live.Laugh.Love. Pursuit of Happiness CMontejo
Everybody has a dream A dream that fulfill everything we thought And gives insight and encouragements, To pursue all things beyond its limit. A dream sometimes not a fictional one It has something to do with your life Just be strong and move to it Coz’ maybe someday you’re facing next to happiness. Pursuing ones dream is not a dust That fades when strong wind comes Fight for it along with the trials and obstacles Coz’ maybe someday you’re facing next to happiness.
A Wretched Heart’s Journey HOPEA
The love that springs out of nowhere, It’s like the water falls, It’s like the wave in the sea.
The pursuit of happiness Is full of determination and engagement And a simple wisdom that says; If you want something go get it.
The love that springs out of nowhere, It’s like a trail in the mountain, It’s like a rugged terrain. The love that springs out of nowhere, It’s like the water falls, It breaks into pieces as it reaches the ground. The love that springs out of nowhere, It’s like the wave in the sea, It smashes everything on its way. The love that springs out of nowhere, It’s like a trail in the mountain, It leads you to the peak of your desire. Yet, in the end it will also lead you down. The love that springs out of nowhere, It’s like a rugged terrain. So hard to pass through, So hard to forget. The love that springs out of nowhere, It’s like a heart dip in a hot river. Though it’s painful in the beginning, You will get used to it in the end, Until your heart becomes as cold as a spring.
Love Hindered No More Lab_Lei
Ravished by the excerpts of darkness and gloom felt within Through the cold breeze that chilled the very chaste skin Waiting for the right time to express this longingness Oh, fragile vase of the Malay race! An act forbidden by culture, religion and race, ‘Tis sensation that baffled my soul ‘til days Raindrops froze in snowflakes gnashing the grasses to the ground A demi-goddess that snatched by lowly heart away Hindered by circumstances tested against the shadows of perfection Amidst disparity adhered uncertainty in realm of life and death ‘Tis lovely maiden I shall caress her warmth of passion Ambiance of serenity and innocence resides in her soul Relinquishment of wealth I shall do Encircled with the crown of thorns I shall endure True feelings concealed no longer Paradise I shall make ‘tis lady for eternity.
AY 2012-2013| rebirth
Vol. 1 No. 1 | LITERARY
25
Quest 窶郎un?
Below are pictures of different species found in MSU. Try to identify them if you can!
01
02
03
04
05
06
07
Answers:
aroflissaP( allidanarG tnaiG )3 )sucidni .f sucidni supracoretP( arraN ylkcirP )2 )siraluguj siraluguj ainiratceN( dribnuS dekcab-evilO )1 )illiwidib airacuarA( eniP aynuB )7 )acitpes suciF( iluaH )6 )adidnac sehtnaryhpeZ( yliL yriaF )5 )satnalac anooT( satnalaK )4 )siralugnardauq
Eco-Terrorism by LJClerino
A
n article caught my eye long ago, airing the concerns towards eco-tourism holidays posed as sustainable, nature-based and environmentally friendly, is now subject to huge controversy. In recent years, several state governments including our country (Philippines) raised the curtains for ecotourism in natural reserves. Obviously, eco-tourism gives a chance to people to see plants and animals in their natural habitats. It is also a source of income to the local people. On top of that, it improves the state’s economy. But, it also has its deleterious impacts. Eco-tourism may sound benign, but one of its most serious impacts is the expropriation of pristine lands - national parks, wildlife parks and other wilderness areas - which are packaged for eco-tourists as the green option. Eco-tourism is highly consumercentered, catering mostly to urbanized societies. Mega-resorts, including luxury hotels, condominiums, shopping centres and golf course, are increasingly established in nature reserves in the name of ecotourism, in many cases protested as “eco-terrorism”. Such projects built completely in artificial landscapes, tending to irretrievably wipe out plant and wildlife species - even entire ecosystems. Add to that, contrary to claims, local people do not necessarily gain benefits from eco-tourism. Tourism related employment is greatly overrated: locals are usually left with low-paying service jobs such as tour guides, porters, and food and souvenir vendors. In addition, they are not assured of year-round employment, workers may be laid off during the offseason. Also, no strict rules are adopted inside the declared ecotourism centres. There is no ban on use of plastic items such as plastic bags, water bottles and disposable cups in several ecologically and biologically sensitive eco-tourism zones here in our country. The use of plastic cups, bags and bottles causes havoc in the natural system. For instance, plastic bags and plastic water bottles discarded in wetlands causes’ considerable damage to the unique mangrove ecosystem and its fragile diversity. Plastic bags clog the aerial roots, resulting to poor air circulation, sometimes leading to the death of young mangrove plants. And, finally, the entire ecosystem will crumble like a house of cards. The ineptitude is evident in the halfhearted efforts of the national and local government units to implement sustainable eco-tourism. They –we- forget that aside from the growth of the economy’s progress; they – we - should keep an eye on the environment as it needs much attention too. Blueprints for solving these problems and controversies should be designed well. Thus, a careful assessment has to be made before an area is declared an ecotourism spot. Even after the declaration, continuous monitoring is needed to assess the impact of tourism on the ecosystem and its diversity. Biodiversity is the untapped capital of our country. So, it would be better to shun the idea of opening hot diversity spots for public access in the name of eco-tourism, until we are assured that agencies will take these responsibilities to heart. #
AY 2012-2013| rebirth
Trash Talk by FOPillodar
After eating fishballs, squidrolls, tempura, and banana cue in the streets, where do your sticks go? During a hot weather, after finishing the last bite of your corneto, smartys, magnum or ice cream, where do your wrappers end up to? Just by looking around, you will have the answer to those questions. It’s amazing how these lifeless materials colonize our waterways, vacant lots and even main street ways. But what is more astonishing is how stupid we whine and moan why the commercial center is flooded again just after a slight rain. Or why the canals overflow fast? Or why is your corner reeking of foul odor? That is where we’re only good at, to me it seems – complaining, The problem of solid waste in the campus is nothing new. The cellophane your father first threw in MSU when he was still a student may not have decomposed yet. And that was 50 years ago, a time when the student population still numbered only in hundreds. Forward it at present with about 15,000 students more and you have a crisis. With each student consuming about nine (9) pieces of cellophane a day, you have a catastrophe. Every day, more and more plastics and organic solid wastes end up in our garbage stream unsegregated. Our waste receptacles, however, seem to include vacant lots and street corners in the campus. In fact, it’s everywhere. Wastes from food stalls get mixed up with diapers, cartons, broken glass bottles, and papers. As a consequence, we have hazardous garbage heaps and stinking pools that become the breeding grounds of rodents and insects that are vectors of diseases. Aside from clogging drainage after a downpour, some waste materials can mix with rain and seep into the groundwater that many of us consume for drinking and use for other domestic purposes. Decaying wastes can also produce sulfur dioxide (SO2) which can irritate the respiratory system, making breathing difficult for those with existing heart and lung diseases. Finally, inorganic wastes take years to disintegrate that even after your grandchildren have grandchildren of their own, it will still be there where you left it the last time, unless it is moved somewhere else by wind or water or by animals or somebody. When our children’s children decide to enroll in MSU fifty years from today, they will be faced with a crisis – a crisis we ourselves organized for them. Do we leave them at that? Dealing with the solid waste problem of the campus involves more than me writing this piece. It involves us doing collective efforts to reduce the waste generation and impose proper segregation. Think again where that cellophane will clog before asking for extra ones or where that cockroach will land after visiting your trash cans. Let us preach what we teach [learn]. As a unit that promotes environmental conservation, let us be at the forefront of proper waste management. If we feel our efforts are futile, let us remember that the pyramid was not built in a day. Because if we do not do anything now, the next time the commercial center is flooded, we should really stop trash talking. #
Vol. 1 No. 1 | OPINION
27
Mining: Seeking riches or digging graves?
Hithitin Mo!
The splendor of minerals never ceases to amaze us. Wars have been fought and civilizations divided over piece of metals, hardly edible, that defined nations. The Philippines is one of richest countries in the world in terms of mineral deposits. The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) reports that some 9 million ha of the country’s total land area have been identified as having “high mineral potential”. MGB also reported that in 2011, the country’s total metallic mineral production was worth P122 billion. Gold production alone was valued at P63.14 billion. Mining contributed 1 percent (P99.2 billion) to the country’s gross domestic product in 2011, according to MGB data. If the Tampakan Gold Project of SMI will become operational, the company alone will contribute an additional 1% to the GDP. Investments in exploration and mining projects have amounted to more than $4.4 billion from 2004 to 2011. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said that the mining industry employs some 238,000 people. Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima even said that the mining industry can contribute more to the country’s economy if certain reforms will now be instituted. In as much as mining is beneficial, one cannot also set aside the damage it poses. On December 5, 2012, typhoon “Pablo” hit Mindanao. One of the most devastated provinces was Compostela Valley where locals were buried alive after several days of rain softened the land and cause a landslip. The devastation was a result of unregulated mining activities coupled with the clearing of forests for mineral extraction in the area. Mining also threatens water and land resources. Mining in watershed areas can affect sources of drinking water and irrigation. Productivity of lowland farm areas has been reduced due to contamination of the land. Heavy metals, often by-products of mineral processing, end up in rivers and streams and accumulate mostly in the body of fishes, and clams that are main protein sources of most people. Many of these heavy metals are teratogenic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic. The threats of mining also extend to indigenous people. Many ethnic groups have been displaced from their traditional ancestral lands as most of their lands are taken over by mining concessions. In some instances, extra-judicial killings occur for those who are advocates of anti-mining. During the Interfaith Solidarity Mission in Malaybalay City, lumads living in San Fernando, Bukidnon were relocated at Kaamulan Grounds, in front of the Provincial Capitol. They are now appealing to the local government to help them in persecuting the goons that are killing their members for refusing to sign the document that would allow mining in the area. But their struggles were ignored. The scenario of our lumad brothers and sisters facing displacement due to mining is a sad reality. There is no denying that mining can help boost the economy of a country but that does not mean it can replace the lives, occupation and customs lost along the process. No amount of gold or silver can equate to the splendor of our natural resources nor can it outshine the crystal clear, freshwaters of our watersheds. Unless the government and those who are involved in mineral extraction are able to address these concerns, mining excavation is like digging our own graves. #
Ipinagbabawal na gamot ang kadalasang hinihithit ng mga taong lulong at adik sa droga. Pero hindi natin alam na sa bawat segundo ng ating buhay, ang hangin na ating nilalanghap, ang siyang esensyal na pangagailangan sa bawat segundo, ay higit pa sa hinihithit ng mga bangag na ating kinakatukan. Ika nga nila, ‘kapag tumigil na ang paghinga, malamang hindi na niya makita ang kagandahan ng mundo.’ Subalit kung sa bawat paghinga naman ay hanging higit pa sa droga ang nalalalanghap, may pagkakaiba ba? Ayon sa kanta na ‘Kapaligiran’ ang pamagat,” Wala ka bang napapansin...kay rumi na ng hangin”. Malamang madami na sa atin ang nakakaalam na marumi na ng hangin na ating nilalanghap, partikular na sa mga lugar na halos ang kalsada ay siksik na ng samu’t saring sasakyan. Araw at gabi kailangang may mga sasakyan sa kalsada, parte ng pagpapatuloy ng paglago ng ekonomiya sabi nila. Pero ang tanong, ”Ang ibinubuga ng mga tambutso ng sasakyan, kumusta ba?” Siguradong ang sagot, marumi’t nakakasira. Bakit? Kasi naman po kung pagmamasdang mabuti, walo sa sampung sasakyan ay bumubuga ng maitim na usok na hitik sa kung tawagin nila sa ingles ay “pollutants” na pwedeng makapagdulot ng kung anu-anong sakit tulad ng kanser, allergy, sakit sa baga at iba pa. Sa bansa ipinapatupad ang Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 (Republic Act No. 1797), na nag-uutos sa mga siudad na magpasa ng ordinansa na nagsasaad sa pag-limita at pagbawal sa mga sasakyan na magbuga ng maruming usok. Dagdag pa na prohibisyon ang sa Land Transportation Office (LTO) ang hindi pagbigay ng lisensya sa mga may-ari ng sasakyan na hindi nakapasa sa pagsusuri kung saan ang kalidad ng hangin na nilalabas ng tambutso ay tinitingnan. Subalit, ang hindi ko lubos maisip ay kung bakit marami pa ring lumalabag sa patakarang ito na hindi hinuhuli at binibigyan ng karampatang parusa. Dito sa MSU, ito ay katotohanang matagal na nating isinasawalang-bahala. Ito ay dahil sinu-sino na lamang ang labas-masok sa ating pamantasan, at ang pagsunod sa mga polisiya ipinapatupad dito ay hindi inuobliga. Isa pa sa mga dapat pagtuunan ng pansin ay ang mga nagmamaneho ng mga traysikel at motorsiklo na kung umasta ay animo’y kung sinong Ponsio Pilato na nagmamay-ari ng daan. Ang kanilang bilang na hindi nireregula ay nagdudulot ng polusyon sa hangin pati na rin ingay. Noong bago pa lang ang MSU, wala namang traysikel kaya naman ang mga estudyante ay naglalakad lang. Walang ibang dapat sisihin sa pagdami ng ganitong uri ng sasakyan sa loob ng pamantasan, kundi tayo lamang. Kasi naman sa tuwing tayo ay sumasakay, ilang beses pa sa isang araw, pinaparamdam natin ang isang pangangailangang di naman. Kung bakit kasi kahit pwedeng lakarin lang ay talagang sumasakay ang karamihan dahil sa katamaran. Kung ang dahilan lang naman ay mahuhuli na sa klase, “pwes gumising ka ng maaaga!” tipid na sa pamasahe, makakapag-ehersisyo pa. Higit pa doon ay ang pagambag natin sa laban ng pag-iwas sa polusyon sa hangin, na nakakadulot ng sakit at nakakasira sa kalikasan. Kasiyahan para sa ating mga MSUan ang pagkakaroon ng hamog na bumabalot sa pamantasan na animo’y Baguio. Pero magugustuhan pa kaya natin ang itim na hamog? Paano naman kung ang hangin ay marumi na, hihithit ka pa ba? #
by CAMontejo
28
OPINION | Vol. 1 No. 1
by GADesaca
rebirth |AY 2012-2013
E D ITORI AL
MISSED CALL Biodiversity loss. Shrinking land space. Swelling population. Famine. The earth is on the brink of MThisining. destruction. may seem a plot for another apocalyptic movie but environmental degradation is real and happening.
The reality of our environment’s current condition is the cumulative consequence of mankind’s complacency towards environmental conservation, protection, and preservation. While the world is busy resolving political and economic issues, environmental stewardship has been set aside. We have overlooked our vested responsibilities as stewards, in the pursuit of economic advancement to attain development. Our desires and aspirations desensitized us from the issue equally as pressing as economy and politics, nature’s cry falling into deaf ears. Mindless in our craving for more, we have left the environment in a state of disorder and not until nature itself will direct its force against us, as manifested by destructive calamities, will we start doing something. We missed what is apparently very important, that huge gap that when filled can vastly improve our understanding, that without a healthy environment to live in; politics, economic advancement, development and life itself are futile. Continually, we have denied the fact that neither power, nor progress can afford us a healthy environment. There have been many avenues where we have tried to address the problem of environmental destruction and most of them have been efforts of large scales. These efforts however are often not directed into the grassroot communities, and if they are, the issue on the lack of awareness and understanding regarding the all-too complex processes that underlie the problem of degradation has been underemphasized. Many also tend to depend on the government to come up with the necessary solutions to these problems, forgetting that the number of people running the government is nothing compared to that of the sheer number of the Filipino population. Change should start from us, individually, because each of us plays a rather large role as provenance to the problem. Cliché but true, we must think globally, act locally, and start personally. How do we start personally though when the issue is poorly understood, if not entirely alien for too many people? We know all too well that relying too much on national publications and the media will often prove lacking, if not frustrating, as all these are saturated with the only things that we care about, money, politics, and sadly showbiz. Pointing a condemning finger to this though, will not help solve the issue. It is then left to us to do something to address this. At the microcosm level, as College of Forestry and Environmental Studies students, who are privileged to be given the chance to be educated about the issue in environmental degradation, we have the power to help many people understand. Expressing our sentiments towards environmental issues, and writing about what we know, are just but some of the keys to genuine change. Since time immemorial, writing has been a powerful tool for environmental awareness as established by Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring that enlightened the public of the threats of Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) and resulted to the banning of the same. It also brought about the institution of a science that is continually evolving, one that deals specifically with the environmental problems that now confront us. Borrowing the lines of Baba Dioum, “..we will conserve only what we love. We will love only what we understand. We will understand only what we are taught.” Journalism awakens environmental consciousness among people. It helps shed light on the unknown, making us see that we need not be crippled with the fear of confronting something so herculean that it is un-scalable. It can help cure a disease that has beset us for the longest time--apathy. It encourages individuals to not simply whine about the problem that is the degradation of the environment, but to help find solutions and to take actions. At the end of the day though, we have to recognize that journalism is just a tool for change. It would still have to boil down to our individual response to the often ignored pressing call of nature. #
THE CONSERVATOR
The Official Student Publication of the College of Forestry and Environmental Studies Mindanao State University-Main Campus
Editor-in-Chief Jayson Leigh Segovia | Associate Editor Regin Rex Guerra and Garex Christian Al-ag Managing Editor Lorwin Jade Clerino | Associate Managing Editor Charles Montejo Correspondents Jheco Kim Decierdo, Grace Ann Desaca and Rowena Langit Photojournalist Norhanifa Mama Cartoonists Regine Bonilla and Fejaycris Pillodar Advisers Dr. Gerardo Gavine, Ms. Nathalie Claire Paracueles and Mr. Mark Gregory Rule
â&#x20AC;&#x153;bird callâ&#x20AC;? The Conservator would like to invite the CFES students to contribute poems, short stories, opinions and other related articles. We also welcome reactions, criticisms and suggestions. The Editor reserves the right to edit, or reject the articles. You may send it to theconservator.cfes@yahoo. com or you may also submit it to any staff of the publication you know.
The Editor
The Conservator College of Forestry and Environmental Studies MSU-Main Campus Marawi City, Philippines
ACT KNOW LEDGE MEANT: The following friends who have greatly contributed to the success of this issue, to wit: -Prof. Evelyn V. Bigcas -Prof. Danilo C. Mero -Prof. Mary Joyce Sali -Fstr. Jenefer P. Calipusan -Fstr. Melvin U. Disomimba -Ms. Aida A. Jumawid -Ms. Mary Louise A. Omelio -Mr. Mike Ariel P. Plaza -Mr. Mark Anthony Castillano -Giron Paul D. Del Rosario -Kevin O. Kuizon -Jayllian Sulapas -Joselito B. Chavez, Jr. -Sittie Najmah Ambor -Noroddin Adiong -Noralyn Pumbaya -Shiela Shien S. Millan -Mindanao Varsitarian -FESSBO ...and to all whose names we failed to recognize but have assisted, in one way or another, in making this dream a reality,
a million thanks!
SPOOF
Aakyat sa mga matataas ng bundok.. .
Maliligo sa malalami g at maiinit na tubig..
At huwag kalimutan na tayo rin ang umuuwi na may dalang iba’t-ibang sakit sa katawan.
naUDLOT na Pag-ibig
Failed Trip
tayo ay Alam niyo ba olnaat napakamay marami,co dtrips? challenging na fiel
by RABonilla and FOPillodar
Tol, pangilang take mo na sa subject na ‘to?
E-Bull Way Shown
3 pang-take . ko na tol ,eh
grabe talaga ‘tong instructor natin, di na naawa. gusto ko na nga tuloy maghiganti eh.
Lumabas kayo at huwag nang magpapakita pa dito!!!
sa totoo lang, ako din eh.. meron akong naisip..sa evaluation tayo babawi..
HOY MGA PASAWAY! Akala niyo maloloko niyo ako! At may balak pa kayong ibagsak ako sa evaluation?! Ma’am, kelan pa po kayo nanjan?
Sorry po Ma’am..
behind the bushes