The Crusader AY Ender 2019

Inside: CSG Recap City elections Botar Atenista Results Universal Health Care law

Crusader

The

Cover Story

Publishers Subscribing Students of Xavier University Editorial Board Mary Therese P. Mole Editor in Chief Winona Roselle Serra Associate Editor Jayson Elvie G. Ty Design Editor Tisha C. Abejo Managing Editor Merryane Rose S. Bacud Features Editor Gene Gerard G. Verona Photography Editor* Karla Mae H. Romero Graphic & Layout Editor Rizalyka Joanne M. Waminal Freehand Editor Finance Officers Anna Jamela S. Balindong Auditor Tisha C. Abejo Senior Finance Manager Managers Ar-Raffi C. Macaumbos Human Resource Khristine Marjorie L. Quiblat Circulations Manager Jayson Elvie G. Ty Online Accounts Manager* Rafhael L. Jabongga Junior Finance Manager (Trainee) Staff Writers Maita Angelica S. Arenas (Contributor) Khalid M. Bashier (Contributor) Abdel Rafi M. Lim Blayce Ann P. Malaya (Trainee) Staff Artists Andrea Felice J. Abesamis (Trainee) Louise Antoinette Marie G. Acac (Trainee) Jean Mika M. Aporillo (Trainee) Derrick Kean A. Auxtero Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas Sumayyah G. Caris (Trainee) Paula Elaine D. Francisco (Trainee) Rafhael L. Jabongga (Trainee) Niño Vincent B. King (Trainee) June Benedict C. Laplana (Contributor) Reham P. Macataman (Trainee) Jinky M. Mejica James Patrick B. Pabonita (Trainee) Alhakim B. Palanggalan (Trainee) Prince John Samontina (Trainee) Aaron John N. Seno (Trainee) Melvin P. Villacote (Trainee) Moderator Mr. Stephen Roy J. Pedroza *Interim For contributions, please address your articles and/or comments to: TheCrusader Publication Office, Rm. 302, Student Center Bldg, Xavier University 9000, Cagayan de Oro City Circulation: 2,000 copies /thecrusaderpublication

Table of Contents 1 Editorial 2 Column 4 Upbringing Student Advocacies Through VOX 5 Done so in the year of our Lord 2018-2019 6 Revamping the City’s Political Landscape 8 Kapuso Campus Tour’s 6th leg takes place in CDO 9 CruPub installs eighth Sibya 10 Cover Story: Building bridges: ‘PUSO uban sa pag-TAGBO’ 12 PRD signs Universal Health Care law 13 The next AY glimpse: 6% tuition fee hike 14 Comics 15 Hohongihong All inverted pages

The Cover

A

new horizon shines on Central Student Government (CSG) as the new officers have been named. On the incoming academic year, the red rose and blue ribbon will team up to build bridges between the students and the administration.

Union of Students for the Advancement of Democracy (USAD) Presidential Victor Audrey Yu and newly elected Vice President Mohammad Sarip from Alyansang Atenista (AA) are ready to set aside their diverse political parties to take on the challenge to put their words into action, together with their alliances. In the next CSG, blue and red will be complementary.

Words by Mary Therese P. Mole Illustration by Derrick Kean A. Auxtero

/thecrusaderpub /thecrusadertv

The official student publication of Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan Vol. 45 No. 5 March 2019

Email your comments & suggestions to thecrusaderpub@gmail.com

EDITORIAL

Illustration by Andrea Felice J. Abesamis

T

Press freedom at stake

he press causes great division. It has become the enemy of the people. This is how others see people working in the journalism profession.

Even before President Rodrigo Roa Duterte came into power, unfortunately, our country has been known to be a dangerous place for journalists. For decades, press oppressions and killings are inevitable disputes in the Philippines. Filipino journalists have sacrificed their lives in the name of truth and accountability, and yet they have become nameless and nearly forgotten.

Stories of press oppression like the infamous Maguindanao Massacre that abducted and killed 34 journalists, the corruption exposes of Melinda Magsino of Batangas City, and the revelations of Maurito Lim—known for criticizing local officials allegedly involved in the illegal drug trade in Bohol Province. This sad reality contributes to impunity that further endangers the lives of truth seekers, especially under the current administration.

As the power of today’s administration becomes stronger than ever, people have become too distorted by their opinions to be politically savvy in a way that even fake news—which undermines the integrity and freedom of the press—is being believed. Take for example, the arrest of Rappler’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Maria Ressa. She was accused of cyber-libel after violating a law that was implemented months after the alleged offense. She previously had to post bail over tax fraud charges, which she said were trumped up to harass and intimidate Rappler. Rappler’s license has been revoked and some of its journalists were banned from entering and covering presidential briefings.

These are just few of the many press oppressions that’s happening in our country. These are clearly attacks—not just on the media outlets, but on the role journalism serves in a free society; not just on specific stories, but on the Filipinos’ need to know the facts; not just on journalists, but on the right of all people to speak their minds. The people shall not be deprived or abridged of their right to speak, to write, or to publicize their notions, and the freedom of the press, as one of the great walls of liberty, shall be inviolable.

Press freedom is not meant to divide us but to unite us. The freedom of the press is an individual liberty, not the peculiar privilege of a profession or an industry. It is your right as a Filipino to read what you will, write what you think, and publish what you believe. The press is neither the enemy of the people nor its ally, but rather its possession. The freedom of the press is not for the press, but yours.C

Crusader

The

www.thecrusaderpublication.com

1

OPINION

Don’t check the label, mommy

S

Misua

exism doesn’t start anywhere but home.

When we were young, we were taught that the color blue is for boys and pink is for girls, for most cases. If I had not reached this age I would’ve always thought that was right. I’m not saying that boys liking blue and girls liking pink is wrong—but what about children who aren’t up for it?

I believe that a color does not define one’s gender. I saw this mother’s post on social media: a picture of her son and daughter playing around a kitchen set with the caption, “ayaw apil ug dula ana dong kay pang girl na.” Imagine how that statement can ripple into something bigger. Because it’s more than just choosing which toys to keep your child entertained. No wonder there are still men who equate their wives to household help, thinking it’s expected of women.

Similarly, some women think that because they’re women, they need men who can drive for

them. Their mentality boils back to the root of the problem: little girls are taught that they can’t play with Hot Wheels because toying with race cars are for boys.

We’re in the 21st century and the world is striving to break stereotypes. One thing we could do is let the children play with anything they want.

It does not hurt us to let them be. Truth be told, we mess everything up by labeling what boys and girls deserve. It’s like saying you can’t punch a girl because she’s physically weaker than a boy.

You’re teaching him to do good, but for a wrong reason. Because what if we turn it around? Is it okay for a girl to physically assault the opposite gender? No. It’s wrong to punch a person. Period.

We don’t need to include a person’s gender and “incapacities” in the sentence.

Identifications are important but I firmly believe that there are things that must be left unlabeled.C

By Jayson Elvie G. Ty

Is change (still) going to come?

E

6.02214179 x 1023

very day as I spend time on Twitter and Facebook, I always see people on the internet who want to see change in the Philippines. They explicitly voice out their complaints on social media, such as questioning why the country isn’t progressing, how they are deprived of getting jobs, or how the poor is remaining as is. You know what’s funny and ironic, though? Most of these people are the same ones who vote for or promote plunderers, actors, exconvicts, sexy dancers, and corrupt government officials.

Get your mindset and logic straight. You want the country to progress? Then vote for electoral candidates who have good, ideal but also realistic platforms. Don’t base your judgements on your idolatry or for the sole reason that the President is endorsing these candidates. It’s becoming too obvious that you are serving the leaders, not the motherland. Look at the candidates’ credibility and propaganda before you campaign for them.

Entrusting the Philippines to “leaders” who will help citizens in advancing the country is not something that must be overlooked. Don’t easily get swayed by the money they offer, for your dignity and the nation’s worth is more than just 50 to a thousand pesos. But also, don’t be apolitical and apathetic while yearning for a brighter tomorrow. That’s just not how it works, dear. You still have to do something in order for something to be done.

You have the right to vote. But you also have the responsibility to vote wisely. Cliche as it may sound but it is true that “you should be the change you wish to see.” In aspiring for change and progress, it has to come from you and it has to start with you. Filthy and simple-minded politicians will never stop running so long as they gain support from the masses. Wake up if you want to ascend from this distorted system.

Otherwise, just stop desiring for change if you are just going to vote foolishly.C

By Mary Therese P. Mole

2

Vol. 45 No. 5 March 2019

OPINION

s a kid, I thought of college as freedom to choose who I ought to be in search for my deeper meaning; to choose what path I wanted to take; what course I wanted to pursue.

But how can freedom be violated?

First, when our choices are blinded by fear.

As a daughter of a woman whose only source of income is her pension, I have to strive to finish my course within four years only, without summer classes. Majoring in Financial Management was my first choice—but I’ve heard rumors that with this major, I would encounter a teacher whose aim was to fail students. I feared failing and adding to my mother’s burden so much that I chose Business Economics as my major instead. Teachers shouldn’t instill fear because fear is not what’s important.

Teachers should enlighten students to not fail because behind everything we do are our parents who work hard enough just to pay our tuition. At the same time, us students should be bolder too.

Second is when we do not have a choice. We were forced to enroll in an elective that we weren’t interested in. The word “elective” means that it is “a subject that someone can choose to study as part of a course.” But how come our choices were limited? From a list of elective courses to choose from, only one was offered. Out of frustration, I asked an instructor and he said “one section ra man gud mo. Dayun less than 40 ra mo. Igo ra gyud one elective section ang inyong number.” However, it is possible to have a class with below 20 students only. If they couldn’t open another elective for us, they should have opened the other electives offered for Business Administration students like us.

The system has somehow violated our freedom of choice—both indirectly and directly— and we did not speak because we were scared. If our school teaches us to just obey regardless if it goes against our will, can we truly find our meaning and purpose?C

By Tisha C. Abejo

Res[e]t

W

Sapphire Star

e have been conditioned to choose getting higher grades in exchange for our health. We have made it a norm to pull all-nighters to finish the mounds of requirements given to us. We overwork ourselves in the name of doing our best. Sure, you could call them acts of Magis, but you will never be able to attain the true essence of Magis if you continuously harm yourself along the way.

Consider this: even machines come with power off and reset buttons. Giant pieces of metal specifically designed, manufactured, and assembled to work for long periods on end still need to take breaks. Our lives would be so much easier if they ran 24/7, but they don’t. They aren’t the only ones who need to rest—we do too.

And while this doesn’t give you a free pass to be outright lazy, just imagine what would happen.

You’re chasing deadlines. You keep pushing on, fighting. And I get that valuable things are worth

sacrificing for—but you have to understand that the human body can only do so much before it crashes. During the chase, you grow fatigued, may experience breakdowns, and run the risk of burning out.

If you burn out you won’t be able to do anything, literally. You would have physically exhausted your body to shut off and it’ll take you more time and energy to recover. So, the next time you catch yourself desperately chasing those deadlines—crying your eyes out while you drain what little amount of energy you have left—know that it’s okay to take a breather.

Ultimately, the decision whether you continue to work or not will still always be yours. You are the only person who can truly weigh the pros and cons of it. Just know that if you choose not to, the sun will still rise tomorrow. It will be a new day and another chance to start anew—for now, remember to rest.C

By Winona Roselle Serra

Crusader

The

www.thecrusaderpublication.com

3

Photos by Karla Mae H. Romero

Ash

e

A

/s rCH/

Photos by James Patrick B. Pabonita

Design by Melvin P. Villacote

By Blayce Ann P. Malaya

O

n February 24-25, students leaders in CDO gathered for VOX 2019, a legislative process model of the Philippine Congress where delegates from participating schools plan and develop bills that would be beneficial to the community.

Organized by Xavier University Central Student Government (XU CSG), it is the first Young Leaders’ Parliament launched in CDO. The twoday event was held at two different locations— with day one held at XU while day two was at Chali Beach Resort—in partnership with Liceo de Cagayan University (LDCU), University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) Supreme Student Council, and Young Centrists Union (YCU).

As an advocate During the first day, XU Association of Law Students President Princess Ubay-Ubay and XU Political Science Instructor Roderico Dumaug, Jr. conducted an orientation regarding the legislative process and parliamentary procedures. Following the orientation are the sessions and hearings by each committee. In conclusion for day one, the first VOX set of parliamentary officers were announced—with USTP participant Jay Mart Cuyag and XU participant Mohammad Sarip as the President and Vice President, respectively.

On the second day, CSG Vice President and VOX Executive Director Joshua Christian Dael welcomed the delegates during his opening remarks, as well as encouraged them to keep their passion alive and “to see this (event) as an opportunity for you to stand up to your advocacies [...] This is not the time for you to be silent. I demand to hear your VOX.” Former I am Mindanao Team Leader Brian Adam Anay, YCU National Chairperson Regine Rodriguez, and Camp Students’ Environment

4

Writing Initiative (SEWI) Founder Val Amiel Vestil imparted each of their individual experiences and learnings on peace and development, civic engagement, and environmental concerns, respectively.

During his talk, Anay shared his experience and lessons learned during his time working on the peace and development sector, which includes the necessity to educate the citizens with regards to violent extremist. “Be proud of your roots, make Mindanao cool again [and] make your voice louder; your story matters,” Anay encouraged.

He also challenged the student legislators to “push for an idea that is best for the community.”

Rodriguez, on the other hand, asked the delegates if they will still continue their passion for public service after college. Furthermore, she introduced some of the well-known Non-government Organizations (NGOs) that exert effort for the enrichment and betterment of the community, such as Greenpeace, Feed Philippines, and the YCU (a youth empowerment organization that molds young leaders). Lastly, Vestil opened up how media neglected covering pressing environmental issues given that the “media has the power to set the agenda of a community.”

Thus, Vestil founded the Students’ Environment Writing Initiative (SEWI) Camp—an environment journalism writing workshop that serves as a means to contribute to addressing environmental issues.

As a public servant Shortly after the VOX talks, Keynote Speakers Samira Gutoc, Aika Robredo, and former Congressman Rufus Rodriguez recounted their advocacies in the political arena. Gutoc delivered her speech on the Mindanao peace process and emphasized how “you build a nation from who you are,” and the essence of keeping the Mindanao roots and culture alive. “Young Filipinos were not only the catalysts but they

are the center of change,” read Aika Robredo from Senator Bam Aquino’s uplifting message to the youth with regards to nation building. “We will continue to work for youth empowerment and we will prepare the groundwork for you to reach the greater heights for our beloved nation,” Aquino’s short message concluded. Shortly after the lunch break, Rodriguez talked about his experience in legislation and the bills he raised that were approved; mentioning how attendance plays a vital role on achieving a faster deliberation process for bills. Rodriguez encouraged the delegates to “never be absent in class, be present all the time,” as this will serve as a training ground for them. Moreover, he also presided the oath taking ceremony for the newly appointed officers of the CDO Young Leaders Parliament.

Proceeding to the plenary session proper, three out of five proposed bills were approved and passed, namely, Kagay-anon Mental Health Act of 2019 from the Committee on Health and Wellness, The 24/7 Cagayan de Oro Public Library Act of 2019 from the Committee on Urban Planning and Economic Development, and Night School Program Act of 2019 from the Committee on Social Welfare and Human Rights. Other bills that were not passed included the Committee on Environmental Affairs and Committee on Peace and Security’s bills proposing the regulation of sunscreen distribution and inclusion of peace education in the K-to-12 curriculum of all private and public junior high schools, respectively.

VOX 2019 has a total of 100 participants coming from 12 educational institutions in CDO namely, Cagayan de Oro National High School (CDONHS), Capitol University (CU), Cagayan de Oro College (COC), Corpus Christi School (CCS), Gusa Regional Science High School (GRSHS), Informatics Institute, LDCU, Lourdes College, Merry Child School, Pilgrim Christian College, USTP, and XU. C Vol. 45 No. 5 March 2019

By Maita Angelica S. Arenas

Of increases and challenges “[...]Our University, we are very manpower dependent. Much of our expense is really manpower,” Ong continues. The increase entails to maintain the purchasing power of the employees without sacrificing the services that the school provides. By law, XU is required to allocate 70% of any tuition fee increase to the salary and benefits of the employees. This is contrary to the signed Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) which requires the University to comply Crusader

The

78%—an average of 6.4% increase in the tuition. However, according to Ong, the highest average percentage that XU is adding to the tuition fee is six percent.

Since the start of the free tuition in state universities and colleges, the private education sector, including XU, was challenged. Not only are public institutions offering free tuition to the students, they are also paying teachers more. Ong emphasizes that if XU will not increase the teachers’ salaries, it will begin to lose good teachers.

Consequently, XU will fail to produce good and competitive individuals—which is a far worse problem. “We commit to increasing teachers’ salaries[…] That means, basically, we are also committing to charging more every year because our manpower cost will really go up.”

Lower loss Since the K-12 transition prompted the University to implement cost-cutting measures, the addition of another batch of college enrollees for the next AY will not make much of a change. However, Ong discloses that the target is not so much to operate at a loss, but to operate at a lower loss. If—at the very least—the cost of paper,

electricity, and fuel increases, then the fee the students have to pay for the services would have to increase as well.

Admittedly, Ong clarifies that since the start of the free tuition in public schools, those courses offered both in XU and other public schools have reduced population.

Moreover, she added that the increase in the tuition fees and the number of enrollees does not have a direct correlation due to the fact that students “pay a premium to come to a private school and a premium to come to an Ateneo school[...] Even if you don’t increase tuition, the fact that it’s free in the public school—same story. We’re going to lose the students who cannot afford to pay more.” *** Indeed, the increase in the tuition fee can make a difference in the number of enrollees next year. It is all a question of what school and program the students and their parents will opt to invest in. Ong stresses that the University cannot quote yet how much in percentage turns the impact will be. “I would think that even in good times, there will be tuition fee increases because that’s how the private schools can survive,” she stated.C

www.thecrusaderpublication.com

5

Design by Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas

A

long with the cheers and hoorahs of future graduates as the school year comes to an end is the neverending raise in XU’s tuition fee. Despite the University implementing cost-cutting measures, the numbers on students’ accounts still seem to rise up each year. So, why the increase?

In an interview with University Treasurer Lennie K. Ong, she reveals that there will be a four to six percent increase in the tuition for the next Academic Year (AY). “Given [that] everything else is the same, well, at the very least, you have to keep up with inflation,” she explains. This year, the projected average rate of inflation is four percent, prompting the increase of the cost of operations of the University by as much.

T

he city has long witnessed the myriad of colors running in the local government—from purple to yellow and the occasional orange splashes. This time, the city’s political arena gets a new change of colors with different leaders holding the mantle: a fierce contender in red hoping to succeed the mayoral seat, along with the yellow-turnedgreen incumbent mayor protecting the power entrusted to him since six years ago.

In today’s society where everyone is one click away from being updated, it’s only a matter of time before Cagayan de Oro (CDO) gets the hype of the upcoming city elections, and the youth is no exception to the rule. After all, it is only right that the youth should examine the vying leaders who have pledged themselves in the service of the city, especially when their plans and promises for change and development could directly affect the city’s welfare in the long run.

City predicaments Cagayan de Oro is often listed as one of the most progressives cities in the Philippines.

Incumbent Mayor Oscar “Oca” Moreno boasts of several developments in Cagayan de Oro under his leadership. During his watch, malls and resort parks were opened, condominiums and residential villages were built, and education and health establishments are being developed.

This is the short version of the city’s progress over the years. But despite the long list of developments, the city’s predicaments persist.

Traffic, flooding, and several issues are being

6

thrown at the local government. As Moreno vows to end all these woes, another comes to challenge him—someone who claims he can cure all these problems if he is seated as the City’s leader. As the voting days approach, the battle between the incumbent and the challenger is on, and the future of city lies after May 13.

Viridescent progress With two terms served, Moreno isn’t letting his pursuit for service die down just yet with his decision to run for mayor for the third time around.

At the start of his term back in 2013, the Kagaya-anon populace felt his vision for service with the improvements seen in the city thanks to his eight-point agenda, PRIMEHAT. This agenda brought forth discipline in terms of strict enforcement of traffic rules and regulations, including the pedestrian lanes usage and traffic fines collection. Improvements were also seen in the city’s education sector, where around a total of 548 classrooms were constructed in various secondary and elementary schools.

Moreno’s administration also showed concern for health and environment, evidently shown in the rehabilitation of JR Borja Memorial Hospital and other health centers, and the strict enforcement on the ban of plastic bag usage in the city.

Despite the good he has done for the city, several hurdles were met throughout Moreno’s mayoral term. Near the end of his first term,

Moreno faced a nearly permanent dismissal when the Ombudsman declared him guilty for a graft complaint involving the Ajinomoto Philippines Corporation.

Similarly, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) served a dismissal order that was rooted on 24 administrative cases of graft filed against Moreno by the Ombudsman, most of which revolved around the Equiprent Corporation.

In both scenarios, Moreno was able to gain the Court of Appeals’ favor and thus continued his term as city mayor.

Kagay-anons might see more improvements on his administration’s present projects should they trust him for the mayoral seat once more.

However, with his numerous cases of graft and corruption and the presence of new rivals for the coveted mayoral position, CDO’s present mayor won’t find this year’s elections an easy race to win.

From the red corner Jose Gabriel “Pompee” La Viña, a staunch Duterte supporter comes home to CDO to challenge reelectionist, Moreno. La Viña gained

Vol. 45 No. 5 March 2019

in the whole Philippines.” Some of La Viña’s supporters in social media wrote “dili Okka, dili ok ang kawat,” a tagline which came out because of the cases filed against the latter, making La Viña believe that Moreno won’t be able to survive during the election period.

La Viña intends to focus on job generation, education, health, and agriculture. For him, technology based companies can produce a lot of high paying jobs. He is also all for a city university as he believes that not everyone can be accommodated by state-run universities. For health, he is an advocate of the Cuban model which banks on preventive health care. While he also eyes turning CDO into an agro-industrial city, making it corruption free is the main goal.

But La Viña is not without corruption issues.

Before he was put in DOT and DOA, he was removed by Duterte as SSS Commissioner due to the ‘abuse of funds.’ He denied all allegations.

La Viña’s slogan “Para sa Bag-ong Cagayan” (For the New Cagayan) can be seen in social media outlets and several billboards all around the city. A new Cagayan is what every candidate promises to the people. Now that the native Kagay-anon has come home, will he be supported by the people?

*** Despite the discussion going round about the upcoming senatorial elections, one cannot overlook still the weight that bore the upcoming city elections. While there are four candidates, the debate goes round from social media platforms to tabletop conversations, with which of the two dark horse contenders for the mayoral seat will emerge victorious in the end: the Duterte supporter La Viña or the present Mayor Moreno.

After all, the local government has the most direct impact in the citizens’ everyday lives—and choosing the right mayor should be as critical as choosing the right senators to seat in the Senate. It only matters more that the choice for the mayoral seat should be critically scrutinized for the outcome of a better Cagayan de Oro in the future.C Additional Sources: Jerusalem, J. J. (2019, February 13). COA: No irregularity in CDO’s 596-classroom project. Retrieved from http:// davaotoday.com/main/politics/coa-no-irregularity-in-cdos596-classroom-project/ Paculba, R. T. (2018, June 18). CDO gov’t upgrades basic services, upholds better city. Retrieved from https://pia.gov.ph/ news/articles/1009121 Aguilar, C. (2018, November 25). Aguilar: Pompee La Vina and his bid for mayor (5th stop). Retrieved from https:// www.sunstar.com.ph/article/1775748

is

By Andrea Felice J. Abesam & Ar-Raffi C. Macaumbos Crusader

The

www.thecrusaderpublication.com

7

Design by Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas & Melvin P. Villacote

fame when he was made the Social Media Director for Duterte during the latter’s 2016 presidential campaign. After Duterte’s victory, he entrusted the Social Security System (SSS) to the hands of La Viña, then placed him as undersecretary at the Department of Tourism (DOT), and later transferred him to the Department of Agriculture (DOA) with the same position.

La Viña earned a degree in Philosophy at Ateneo de Manila University as Magna Cum Laude. He also went to the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. Before that, he was an exchange student at Corona Del Mar High in California, United States of America (USA).

While La Viña is running under the coalition of purple PaDayon Pilipino and orange Centrist Democratic Party (CDP), he chose to dawn the red color in several of his billboards and public events. La Viña also claims to be President Duterte’s candidate in the city, and to better his chances, he partnered with Dongkoy Emano as Vice Mayor to try and dethrone Moreno.

Moreover, La Viña accuses the current city mayor of being the most “Anti-Duterte mayor

Photo by Reham P. Macataman

Design by Jayson Elvie G. Ty

By Mary Therese P. Mole

O

n February 28, the Capitol University (CU) Gymnasium was filled with students from different schools and colleges in the city, faculty, and staff who bore witness on the Kapuso Campus Tour Master Class Series. The event is an initiative of GMA Network, in which their staff will go to different schools in the country to share their knowledge on journalism and the likes.

CU President Atty. Casimiro Suarez, Jr. gave the opening remarks. He emphasized how this can help students learn more about social media, journalism, academic excellence, and more. He also thanked GMA for having this initiative and for coming to Cagayan de Oro. Before the panelists’ discussions and presentations, Vice President and Head of GMA Regional TV Oliver Victor Amoroso gave an overview of what the Regional Master Class is, and how it came about. Amoroso said that one of Kapuso Campus Tour’s aim is to “recognize the diversity and power of the voices and stories of the Mindanaoan youth [...] Through events like the master class series, we hope our young audiences [sic] learn from our carefully chosen expert panel speakers, as to why participation in issues matters more than ever,” he reiterated before introducing each panelist.

GMA News Senior Social Media Producer Audrey Domasian is the first of the six panelists. She introduced YouScoop, GMA’s citizen journalism arm that allows ordinary citizens to take part in helping to report news.

Through it, citizens become responsible citizen journalists, and at the same time boost their civic 8

engagement. Still, Domasian reminded everyone of what is newsworthy and gave advice to citizen journalists. “Verify facts before posting, tweeting, or retweeting—and don’t do anything stupid.”

The next panelist was Rahiema Guerra, AFS Intercultural Programs Philippines’ President of the Board of Trustees. Guerra shared what AFS is and how it helps young people be exposed in cross cultural communication. Guerra also explained that AFS is building communities through global citizenship, whereby one also takes responsibilities. “Today we must prepare our youth, not only for the personal development, but also to develop their awareness and effective participation in the world without problems,” she stated, giving light to the audience why AFS exists for a purpose.

After which, GMA News Reporter and Anchor Bianca Umali discussed what news is and its difference from gossip. “In news, we practice fairness, impartiality, and balance.” She reminded the audience to know the value of news and to be careful of disinformation and propaganda.

GMA Regional TV One Mindanao Senior Correspondent Sheillah Vergara-Rubio gave a short talk on why local news matters. She reiterated that local news serves as a link to help communities. Rubio also inserted that YouScoop can help a lot regarding garnering local news, and ended her talk with the hashtag #SpreadKindness.

Next to speak was GMA Network Excellence Award Ambassador Benjamin Alves who talked about academic performance, goals, and selfdiscipline. He particularly gave emphasis on how grades vary from learning—instilling to

the audience that if grades are what you earn in class, then learning is what you use in life. He told everyone that the latter is much more important.

The last panelist to speak was Broadcast Journalist Howie Severino who presented facts and pieces of information on fake news. He showed a list of fake news sites, along with sites that almost identically copy valid and official hyperlinks from professional news sites.

He highlighted skeptical discernment amidst widespread of fake news. “Don’t just believe.”

He also stressed the importance of media literacy and encouraged schools to delve more on it to be taught to students. Ending his talk, he advised everyone to love the truth even if it contradicts one’s belief, or even if it is different from what leaders, relatives, and friends say. “Love the truth so much [sic] you will work extremely hard to find it. Love the truth even when it hurts,” Severino remarked.

A brief open forum was conducted before GMA Cagayan de Oro Station Manager Armi Sobremisana led the closing remarks by thanking the panelists, the people behind Kapuso Campus Tour, the participants, and CU for hosting the successful event. “I pray that what we have discussed this morning will inspire you to be better versions of yourselves, strive for excellence in your endeavors, strengthen your stand for the truth, and lift someone up, one step at a time,” she imparted.

The Kapuso Campus Tour in CU was the sixth leg—second to the last of the Regional Master Class Series.C Vol. 45 No. 5 March 2019

X

avier University The Crusader Publication conducted its eighth installment of Sibya—a Northern Mindanao Student Communicators Congress that gathered approximately 400 participants from all over the region on March 9, at Cinema 3, SM City, CDO. Themed, “Keeping Watch: Power of the Press in the Millennial Times,” the congress aims to educate participants on the power of journalism in conveying stories that are relevant in society, especially those exposed in civic interactions through powerful tools like social media.

The program officially started with the opening remarks given by Crusader Publication Freehand Editor Rizalyka Joanne Waminal. Her message focused on inviting the participants with a call to action to keep watch and stay honest amidst the rise of fake news. “Sibya implores us to be vigilant in these trying times, during which the role of the press has never been more crucial,” she remarked.

The annual congress featured talks from former ABS-CBN Anchor Primy Cane, Rappler’s News Editor Miriam Grace Go, and Photojournalist Alecs Ongcal. The lineup of speakers for the forum served to show different perspectives from the different journalism practitioners. These include peace journalism, the millennial and news, and the power of photojournalism in the era. Following the three powerful sessions was a forum that featured local and national issues like dengvaxia, extra-judicial

Crusader

The

killings, the widespread appearance of fake news, and press freedom.

Cane’s session talked about Peace Journalism.

It focused on the choices every journalist makes while covering news and working towards peaceful outcomes from conflicts. Cane also shared that peace journalism can help society at large think and speak about non-violence and creativity when dealing with conflicts. On the other hand, Go tackled millennials as news consumers. She expounded on how the different social media sites like Facebook, Messenger, Twitter, and Viber that can be a great platform for news dissemination information. She also emphasized on millennials as storytellers— that everyone can be a source of news through engaging in the different communities. Moreover, Ongcal displayed different photographs showing extra-judicial killings, rallies, and poverty in the Philippines. She also specified that ethics is an important element of photojournalism and that there is a need to take part and engage oneself in the rising issues of the country.

Led by Crusader Publication Moderator Stephen Pedroza and Crusader Publication Editor in Chief Therese Mole, the awarding for Journalism competitions such as Essay Writing and Photography for both secondary and tertiary categories took place after the open forum. The winners for the essay writing contest, college category were: Dawn Prencess Caburog of Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology (MSU-IIT), Nathan Jon Murillo

of St. Rita’s College of Balingasag, and Almera Limpao II of MSU-IIT. For the high school category, Francisco Silvidad Jr. of Liceo Senior High placed first, followed by Jasimah Gutoc of Corpus Christi High School, and Kathleen Rose Labial of Fatima College of Camiguin. For the photography contest college category, Thrextor Orzal Meneses of Xavier English Language and Literature Organization (XELLO), Ivy Mari Mangadlao of MSU-IIT, and Pauline Dexie De la Cerna of Liceo de Cagayan University, placed first, second, and third, respectively. For the high school category, Agamart Ferrer Handag of St. Rita’s College of Balingasag took first place, Patricia Jade Lim from Liceo High School placed second, and Febee Joy Cuarto form Manolo Fortich National High School placed third.

The event concluded with Crusader Publication Managing Editor Tisha Abejo’s closing remarks that reminded the participants to seek strength and inspiration from God in order to continue the pursuit of truth by all means. “...

And when time comes that you feel helpless, weak, defeated, and afraid, remember this battlecry: BIL. Basta Ikaw Lord. You are not alone in this pursuit of truth, He is with you.”

SIBYA was opened for communication majors, student journalists, social media-savvy professionals, and everyone interested in the forum. Established in 2012, Sibya is an annual student-run, non-profit communication congress that gathers participants from NorthMin through invitations and independent promotions.C

www.thecrusaderpublication.com

9

Design by Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas

By Merryane Rose S. Bacud

10

Vol. 45 No. 5 March 2019

By Blayce Ann P. Malaya & Winona Roselle Serra

X

U Central Student Government Electoral Commission (XU CSG ELECOM) released the correct official results for the 2019 Botar Atenista on March 6 online. The initial results, which were uploaded on March 4, contained inconsistencies caused by human typographical errors and was corrected by ELECOM Chief Commissioner Joshua Bactong.

Botar Atenista took place from February 28 to March 2. ELECOM stationed five precincts around the campus to cater voters located at Magis Atrium, Old Library Lobby, SBM Study Lounge, Faber Hall Lobby, and Engineering Lobby.

Crusader

The

Yu also mentions that the CSG will strive on reaching out to assist the autonomous units such as the ELECOM and Supreme Constitutional Court (SCC). “CSG will also set its Commission on Sectoral Affairs’ Direction in providing assistance to the concerns of the student athletes, student assistants, [...] and other groups that do not have the support of the student government.”

On the other hand, Sarip will be prioritizing the Constitutional Reforms which will be formed “during summer to make the draft of the new CSG constitution since it will take a lot of time and for it to be ready for the plebiscite on the second semester of AY 2019-2020.”

Having similar platforms and having been previous colleagues, Yu and Sarip guarantee to work hand-in-hand despite coming from two different political parties. “Me and Mohj (Sarip) will have to level-off our expectations and priorities by thoroughly discussing our plans for our respective branch [sic] of governance. And then, we should have an open-ear to each other’s suggestion and be very wise about our decisions as it both affects the student government as a whole,” Yu states, to which Sarip also affirms, saying “Audrey and I will make it our common goal to give the student body the service and representation they deserve.”

Yu and Sarip thank everyone who voted and trusted them to be the next leaders and representatives of the whole student body of XU. Complications and technicalities Following the first release of the elections’ results, outgoing CSG Vice President Joshua Christian Dael pointed out inconsistencies regarding the number of turnouts, particularly those of the Agriculture Student Council (ASC) second year representatives and United Arts and Sciences Students (UNITASS) fourth year representative slots. Bactong apologizes and clarifies that these were typographical errors and that “the votes were not tampered, the votes were original [...] ang uban ato was last year’s turnouts, like wala nako na tarong ug edit, it was typo [sic].”

Botar Atenista 2019’s turnouts of 37.48 percent (2364 out of 6307) is 3.64 percent lower than Botar Atenista 2018’s turnouts of 41.12

percent (2122 out of 5160). Despite the decreased turnout rate, the ELECOM deems the results successful as they were able to cater a greater number of voters. However, Bactong expresses that there is still room for improvement. “It’s more of the promotions, student awareness, and I really think that students need to know more about the Central Student Government and also their councils,” he explains.

Moreover, Bactong affirms that he has witnessed students’ refusing to vote because the candidates were unopposed—therefore making them more likely to win. Per his observation, a key factor for increasing the number of turnouts is having more than one candidate run for a certain position, with the UNITASS positions and Association of College of Engineering Students (ACES) second year representative slot as examples.

Bactong adds that the ELECOM could also improve their manpower. Having more members would increase their availability to open all of the voting precincts for the election’s entire duration, in comparison to this year wherein only the Magis Atrium and Old Library precincts were open on the second day. *** Despite initially coming from different political parties with different political principles, Yu and Sarip now meet to put their words into action to achieve one common goal: to give the student body the leaders they deserve. Together with other newly elected officers, they are determined to bridge gaps between the students and the student government, and eventually between the student body and the University administration. But in the end, it is only the student body who can determine if the bridges built are strong enough.C

www.thecrusaderpublication.com

11

Design by Derrick Kean A. Auxtero

Plans and prioritizations During the campaign period, Union of Students for the Advancement of Democracy (USAD) Presidential Victor Audrey Yu introduces her PUSO CSG platform—PUSO stands for ‘Para sa Estudyante, Para sa Komunidad, at Para sa Iisang Goberyno’. While the newly elected CSG Vice President Mohammad Sarip promoted the platform ‘Padayon Alyansa, Tagbo ta Atenista’ under the Alyansang Atenista (AA) banner. Although Yu and Sarip came under two different political party, both plans out to achieve the same objective, and that is to bridge the gap between the CSG administration and the student body.

As the new CSG administration begins, Yu plans to designate her platform to the corresponding CSG department, stating “our Department of Academic Affairs will focus on the evaluation and assessment for the new curriculum; the Department of Budget and Finance will direct its efforts in resolving concerns with the student-finance transactions; the Department of Communication Management will focus on further improving the information dissemination within the University; the Department of Research and Statistics will focus on the Viewfinder, investing its resources on gathering data and lobbying concerns and policies to the university administration; and the Department of Student Leadership and Development will direct its efforts to assisting in facilitating student-led organizations.” Yu aspires to resolve and address these issues and concerns within her administration period.

with reports from Andrea Felice J. Abesamis

Design by Derrick Kean A. Auxtero

By Merryane Rose S. Bacud

O

n February 20, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte signed the Universal Health Care (UHC) law or Republic Act No. 11223.

It seeks to provide health care for all Filipinos in a special ceremony held in Malacanang Palace.

Authored by Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito, the law intends to automatically enroll every Filipino in the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth)—either as direct or indirect contributors. In his speech during the ceremonial signing of the law, Duterte affirmed that the law would greatly benefit all Filipinos.

“By automatically [enrolling] our citizens into the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) and expanding PhilHealth coverage to include free medical consultations and laboratory tests, the Universal Healthcare Law will guarantee equitable access to quality and affordable healthcare services for all Filipinos.”

How do we benefit?

According to the document posted by Rappler on February 20, Filipinos will now be considered to possess “immediate eligibility” for and have access to the full spectrum of health care. This includes preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative care for medical, dental, mental, and emergency health services.

More to the bill, Filipino patients will be registered with a primary health care provider of their choice, for outpatient care, medicines, and laboratory tests. These will also be included in PhilHealth’s primary care benefits package.

Moreover, membership in the program can either be direct by paying health premiums, or indirect, such as those who are sponsored like senior citizens and indigents. Direct contributory members would get more benefits as premiums increase. The program would be handled by the PhilHealth.

12

The frontliners The bill was co-authored by Senate President Vicente Sotto III, Majority Floor Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri, Minority Floor Leader Franklin Drilon, and senators Juan Edgardo Angara, Manny Pacquiao, Leila de Lima Nancy Binay, Risa Hontiveros, Cynthia Villar, Joel Villanueva, and Sherwin Gatchalian, with Senator Ejercito as the principal sponsor.

Previously, Senate President Pro-Tempore Ralph Recto, Senators Juan Edgardo Angara, Leila de Lima, Jejomar Binay, Cynthia Villar, and Risa Hontiveros filed their own respective versions of the bill. Of the seven, it was Recto who had pushed for Ejercito’s version of the UHC bill since the 15th Congress. Moreover, the House of Representatives also set efforts in putting the bill into law after gathering about 100 authors of the measure. The bill was sponsored and defended

by Quezon 4th District Representative Angelina Tan and then-Kabayan representative Harry Roque, who was later appointed by Duterte as his spokesperson.

According to the Department of Health (DOH), the UHC initiative is a great initiative for the well-being of the Filipino people as it provides high quality of services at affordable costs.

What’s next?

After an ace championed by the people behind the newly signed law, there are also other significant reforms which will be implemented over time. This includes ‘designating PhilHealth as the national purchaser for health goods and services for individuals, such as medicines; improvement of health facilities especially in underserved areas; responding to the gap in health workers throughout the country; strategic engagement of the private sector and; creating and expanding new functions in DOH to improve the delivery of health services.’

With the signed law, our government health care services must now adjust and undergo transition to fit the new UHC system. According to the DOH, about Php 257 billion would be needed to implement the new law in its first year.

There are also agencies and departments who ensure funding sources for the UHC program like the DOH annual budget, revenues from sin taxes, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), PhilHealth members’ contributions, and government subsidies to PhilHealth.

Aside from the benefits to the Filipino people, the signing of the UHC also entails a new and productive governance in the Philippine politics. This will shift the health system’s current treatment-oriented approach towards a more balanced approach emphasizing prevention and health promotion. With the support from the government and other agencies of the law, more and more people will benefit and gain welfare— starting from the automatic health insurance to better health care access.

“Our work will not stop here. We will ensure the sustainable funding for UHC. We will also continue working with the civil society organizations, medical community and other stakeholders to ensure the success of its implementation,” Ejercito stated in a press release.C Sources: Ranada, P. (2019) Duterte signs universal health care law.

Retrieved from https://www.rappler.com/nation/223942duterte-signs-universal-health-care-law Elemia, C. (2019) Who should be credited for the passage of the universal health care law?. Retrieved from https://www.rappler. com/newsbreak/iq/224048-who-should-be-credited-passageuniversal-health-care-law

Vol. 45 No. 5 March 2019

By Abdel Rafi M. Lim

Crusader

The

Meeting adjourned Primary to the concerns of both divisions this year was the proper representation of individual sectors within the student body, the protection of student rights and the advancement of their interests, and the assurance that the grievances of the students would be heard and put into action.

Although, bearing this kind of responsibility, not every expectation was met for both parties. Despite previously having been included in their platforms, Dael discloses that they “weren’t able to get that [the lgbt org], and the communication scheme, and the constitutional reform because we felt like, based on assessment, it should not be our priority this year because daghan pa kailangan i-fix internally.”

“I think we should focus more on other things, on diverting our attention towards

bringing the government to the students,” he continues. “Second katong communication scheme […] I think it should be a program instead of a policy. And lastly katong LGBT org, though I think, and I believe, and I hope—dili pa siya karon but hopefully jud muabot ang panahon na it can be recognized by the Review and Recognition Committee.”

In light of this, both Jacobo and Dael believe that the dynamic of this year’s working force is still something to be proud of. “Proud kaayo ko sa Directorate. Proud kaayo ko sa relationship between the CSG and all the other councils,” Jacobo praises.

She also remarks about the efficient work relation she and her colleague Dael had developed during the year. “Ang nahitabo this year is, it’s not CSG - OP, not CSG - OVP, but CSG as a whole na nagtinabanga jud.”

“It’s really a collaborative effort… what’s good this year is we have each other,” Dael echoes. “I would say that the effort was really murag na double up—na tripled effort na siya from before, to carry over our vision ni Jo [Jacobo].” *** Counting down to their last days bearing their titles in governance, Jacobo acknowledges the role of the students within the CSG. “We need to hear your voices so we can represent you into something that is something very specific of your concerns, your ideas, your sentiments, so we are able to really represent you well,” Jacobo explains.

“I think I've said this before and I quote: give your student government a chance,” Dael reiterates.C

www.thecrusaderpublication.com

13

Design by Jayson Elvie G. Ty

One for the books This year, the organization brought to the University The Xavier Parliament (TXP) during the first semester: the Public Directorate Session at the Magis Atrium; the first ever Year Level Assembly to be arranged; Vox 2019: CDO Young Leaders Parliament a city-wide congressional gathering of studentleaders and; several university-wide events like the Xavier Cup 2018 and the Teachers’ Day Celebration among others.

Throughout the academic year, the executive branch, led by CSG President Jo Jacobo and the Office of the President (OP), and the legislative branch, supervised

by CSG Vice President Joshua Dael and the Office of the Vice President (OVP), have encountered their fair share of highlights and setbacks, as indicated in their experiences while in positions of authority. For Jacobo, a major high point of her career was the subtle yet meaningful displays of support for the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) community incorporated in some

events. “Ang themes karon na year, it’s actually gearing towards LGBT acceptance in the university,” Jacobo affirms. “[Although] dili gyud siya nasabtan [sic] sa students—which I am well aware of. For example, the ‘open dimensions,’” regarding the theme of the Organizational Trip (OrgTrip) held earlier in the school year.

On the other hand, the OVP centered on strengthening policies and programs with Dael manning the helm. “So what we were able to do in the Directorate was to really create programs; institutionalize them for the next admin,” Dael shares.

As of press time, there are over 56 resolutions passed and currently being processed, and 11 pending bills that they aim to pass as laws before the end of their terms.

Photos by The Crusader Publication

A

s the school year crawls to a close, the outgoing Central Student Government (CSG) officers bid a final farewell to their seats in office as the new listing of officials is announced. After 10 grueling months of striving for the betterment of the student body and the XU community as a whole, what observable improvements has the organization accomplished? It may be too early to determine whether or not their time in office has left a long lasting and positive mark, but it can be glimpsed, somewhat, through the people in charge and the successes they’ve secured.

SUDOKURIS DIFFICULTY: CCCC

KURISCOPE

finals midterm grade

ni Happy

Aquarius (Optimistic) Yeey hapit na ang graduation!! Ang pangutana mugraduate ba kaha? Charr lang apil na oy! Dili man karun pero puhon, puhon.

Love partner: Taurus Aries (imung nawung murag face) Langga pagtigom na ug kwarta bisag tig piso ra sa imong balon kada adlaw mao na ang ang mag palanggo sa imo puhon. Para sa lovelife, ayha pa ka e-love sa mga tao kung daghan nakag kwarta.

Love partner: Capricorn

expired

Cancer (Ritemed) Ayaw angkona tanan problema. Kung dili ka muduol o makipagstorya sa imung mga amiga o ginikanan unsaon nimo pagsolba sa imung mga problema.

“Kaya wag mahihiyang magtanong” Love partner: Sagittarius

#2019elections #MOCHAUSON

Capricorn (Perfect time) Amiga/amigo papahulay sad ayaw abusar imung kaugalingon. Ayaw sege’g nega always think positive!

Naay right time sa tanan butang.

Love partner: Aquarius Gemini (always da haggard) Dzai/Dzong wala pay mas malala ana? Ayaw kaayo estress imung kaugalingon, dili uso ang pahulay?

Karung summer pagbakasyon na with your loved ones and relax.

Love partner: Virgo

bscan ang butang masakitan

DOWN

KURISWORD ni RAFA

1 ”M” in M.O.A. 241 2 VOX: Young Leaders’ __ 2019 3 Meaning of “F” in FREOX? 5 One of the speakers during the VOX 2019 7 Universal Health Care_____ or R.A No. 11223 8 ”R” in S.T.R.A.W. 9 Department that partners with DEPED in training SHS and College Students

ACROSS 4 USAD’S Tagline: Kasama Ang Puso Sa Pag_____ 6 ”C” in XASC 10 VOX 2019 was held in this resort 11 ”G” in L.G.U 12 Sibya 2019: Keeping __: Power Of The Press In The Millenial Times

To join: Photocopy this Kurisword or Sudokuris with your answers and submit your entry to TheCrusader Publication office at StC 302 with your fullname and contact number. Lucky participants will receive limited edition collectables.

Ania napd ang ginahulatan na mga palarang mananaog!!! Tintininingg!! Kungrats kay Seian Kyle Gumpal kay sya nakadaog sa Kuris Search ug kay Charisse Alemanio sa Sudokuris kay kamo ang gitadhana na magtake-home sa duha ka sako na bugas pang tabang sa pamilya! HE HE Taw ky, claim your prizes at STC 302, TheCrusader Publication office not later than March 30!! See yah, winners! C

14

Leo (trashtalker na hilig ug peacetalk) Lang! Dumdumi nga tanan kay maiagi lang sa storya.

Kung gamay imung grado ron ambot kung maiagi pana sa storya. Sa lovelife, ayaw pirmi kasuko kayy matiguang kag sayo.

Love partner: Aries Libra (follow ur heart) Padayuna lang na, pili-i kung unsay magpakalipay nimo follow your heart ana sila. Pero kung sa gugma follow your heart with your brain dili puros heart lang gamita sad ug utok dzai/dzong!

Love partner: Gemini Pisces (trust urself be4 u trust others) Aguyy dong/dai ayaw segeg salig sa uban. Kung kaya niya, kaya pud nimo! Diskarte pud gamay. Salig lang sa imung self bantog sege kag gakasakitan kay mas ginasalig nimo ang uban kaysa imuhang kaugalingon.

Love partner: Scorpio Taurus (Sge’g love pero never gi-love) Oy! Ayaw na baliki ang past, huna huna kung unsay naa nimo karun. Pangita nalang ug tarung na tao magpalipay nimo dili katung tao na gapasakit lang sa imong kasing kasing.

Love partner: Pisces Virgo (kara-Miya) Luh nganu kung makipagstorya ka sa imung amiga/ amigo kayy kusog kay imung tingog? Pero pag abot sa defense mura na kag naparalyze dinha. Kaya pa nimo makipagstorya back to back.

Love partner: Leo Sagittarius (kaperfect ba!)

Oy! Kaperfect lang sa imong life, ang problema dili lang ka kabalo muappreciate.

Love partner: Libra Scorpio (lapit-lapit..ika’y lalapit) Undang-ngi nah na! Taman ra ka sa pagsulyap sa iya ha? Hapit na ang closing pero wala paka nagopen sa iyaha. Isaba lang kung unsay feelings nimo sa iyaha before its too late.

Love partner: Aquarius

Vol. 45 No. 5 March 2019

LAMPOON

CCS proposes new DMUs installation

Photo by James Patrick B. Pabonita

Design by Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas

By Vanya Hargreeves

O

n March 15, the College of Computer Studies (CCS) submitted a prototype design for Digital Map Units (DMUs) to the Computers in Savier Office (CISO).

The initiative was done in an effort to further impress the Philippine Advanced Association of Systematic and Computerized Universities (PAASCU) accreditors and contribute to the University’s vision of becoming a leading ASEAN University by 2033.

What started as the brainchild of Jay Sentee (BSCS 4), Ray Filleam (BSIS 4), and Rick Keander (BSIT 1) developed into a prototype design, doubling as the students’ final projects for the semester. Initially, its features were patterned after those commonly found in smart devices in order to assist accreditors. Its touch sensors function just like those found in common smartphones.

Using the typical pinch-to-zoom gesture magnifies the display while tapping on a building brings out a list of all its classrooms, offices, and upcoming events.

“Gusto man mi magpaka magis, so amo gibuhatan ug advanced mode which can be accessed by swiping your ID over the sensors,” Sentee expressed. Once enabled, 3D buildings will rise from the screen and Seeri—the DMU’s voicecontrolled assistant—welcomes the accreditor with a predetermined message. Seeri responds to most voice commands, and upon request, even reads aloud social media posts tagged, “XU Confessions” to fully immerse the accreditor in campus culture. But unlike traditional mapping software, it will not display the student activities

real time to preserve the XU community’s privacy.

Areas off-limits to the general public are also unavailable.

Despite receiving enthusiastic plans from the CCS freshmen to further develop it to support holograms, University Treasurer Manny Mecker questions the relevance of the upgrade. “We are doing our best to cut down on unnecessary expenses since the K-12 transition prompted us to increase the cost of the tuition fees,” Mecker explained. However, he added that he would be

willing to consider its implementation only if the group could submit an investment plan detailing all the possible costs and perceived benefits.

As of press time, CCS Dean Jean Verano has sent Mecker a formal letter in an effort to persuade him. “Think of it as their ultimate proof of competence. This will also become more publicity for XU, which will then increase our number of enrollees,” Verano wrote.C

PRRD signs new “Free Wheelchair For Government Officials Law”

By Joneeeel

D

ue to the drastic rise in numbers of government officials being tried for graft, corruption, and other administrative and criminal cases, the Congress passed the Republic Act (RA) 9111 on March 3. Also known as the “Free Wheelchair For Government Officials Law,” it aims to provide free wheelchairs for government officials under trial for any kind of case. Senators Tingoy Espada and Mamon “Mon” Lovilla were prompted to write the bill because of a mysterious illness that attacks government officials whenever they are facing a trial.

The said illness is being studied by experts locally and internationally. As of press time, they are yet to discover the cause of the sudden attacks of severe dizziness, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Former Senators Congressman Goyo A. 6

Royo and Representative of Palangga Province John N. Riles were victims of the deadly illness.

A month earlier from his trial, Royo was very lively and was attending concerts and parties.

However, after the cases were filed against him, he suddenly felt his heart palpitating severely. His doctors were alarmed because they didn’t identify any illness prior to the filing of case. During his trial, the esteemed congressman collapsed on the floor after he was detained while waiting for the court’s final decision. With no wheelchair in sight, the fallen congressman had to be carried out of the courtroom.

Meanwhile Riles, who forgot that he has a pending graft case, came to the trial to support Royo. As he expressed his condemnation regarding Royo’s detention, he was handcuffed by the police and taken into custody. He was heard

shouting, “Bakit pati ako? Labag ito sa Konstitusyon!”

There and then, he fell unconscious. Like Royo, he was brought and detained at the hospital instead of the prison.

The sight of the Philippines’ most prominent politicians being carried out of the courtroom due to the lack of wheelchairs moved Espada and Lovilla. “If only a wheelchair was prepared, Royo wouldn’t have suffered being carried out [of the courtroom] with such humiliation,” Espada imparted.

In addition, both lawmakers included a free villa, top-of-the-line internet connection, and of course, cellphones and any gadget the detained or convicted politicians needed just in case they feel very lonely.C

Vol. 6 No. 1 March 2019

LAMPOON

COMELEC mandates only students with minimum GPA of 85% can vote

By Faye Kenius

A

fter releasing Resolution No. 4200 or General Instructions for the Special Board of Electoral Commissioners and Educators on the Exercise of Students’ Right to Vote, the Committee on Electoral Crisis (COMELEC) will be partnering with the Department of Educators (DepEd) and Commission on Heavier Education (CHED) in training senior high school and college students with the minimum GPA of 85% (QPI of 2.5 in XU) to vote in the Philippine National and Local Elections.

For COMELEC Chief Commissioner White Paulos, the youth sector—particularly those who are currently thriving with stellar grades in the senior high and tertiary levels—plays a vital factor in this year’s elections turnout. “These kids know more about what the law mandates and what the country needs, so it’s only fair that in the coming elections, they (the educated people) should be

the only ones to practice their right to vote.”

According to Paulos, the 85% GPA requirement is required so that they could distinguish which students are academically excelling and knowledgeable enough to know which running candidate to vote for. To ensure this, CHED will be mandating programs requiring internships or on-the-job trainings (OJTs) to increase their concentration on mastering the right to suffrage. The same will be done by DepEd through replacing the Work Immersion coursework’s core essence with voters’ education and application.

Along with the aforementioned provision, those who graduated with honors from college will be immediately recognized as registered voters by the COMELEC. Meanwhile, students who do not reach the standardized point average will be forced to surrender their right to vote to those who are able to vote. “We’re just filtering

out those students who aren’t academically inclined! We can’t trust the country’s future to them if they don’t know how the elections are being run,” Paulos shared.

The resolution was promulgated on February 14, which immediately garnered backlash from the millenials on social media. “Naa na gani sa balaod na kitang tanan pwede mag-vote, gitangtang pa jud. Everyone has the right to vote, regardless of their educational background,” Abbe Steine (AB Psyc-1) ranted. However, some believed that COMELEC made the right decision with this.

“Those who aren’t even educated enough don’t know who they’re voting for—mag-base rana sila sa mga looks pag mag-vote. We’re doing them a favor if we (the academically excellent students) are the ones who’ll vote instead,” Amy Narcos (BS Acc-4) opined.C

XU Admin Implements Sanction for Teachers

By Regina George

Crucheber

The

Photo by Paula Elaine D. Francisco

T

eachers are the students’ greatest role models who greatly affect their observance with the rules. Thus, they should have equal rights and privileges,” remarked Office of Violation Monitoring (XUOVM) Director Ron Duvall as he signed the Memorandum Order No. 241 or The Policy for Violation Sanctions for Teachers and Students on March 2.

Recent reports from students regarding their teacher being late or absent without notice have been filed in the XU-OVM. Due to this, the Official Voice of the Students Government (OVSG) filed a petition for the administration to apply sanctions, not only to the students but also to the faculty members.

“We are very fortunate because mao jud ni among goal—ang ma bridge ang students and ang administration. This is what the student body wants and so we filed the petition, and luckily, after a series of deliberations, gi approve sa admin,” shared OVSG President Cady Heron.

The policy covers both the faculties in the Senior High School (SHS) and the tertiary level.

For SHS, the teachers would have to render 1.5 hours of Community Service (CS) every time they come in late. They should secure a slip from the XU-OVM and present it to their respective faculty head. Furthermore, for every period a teacher is

absent, there will be a Php 100 salary deduction.

Same goes to the tertiary level faculty. Aside from the deductions, if a college faculty member arrives late in one class, he or she is entitled to give the class a perfect score in a quiz or test.

There will be a maximum of eight absences and eight tardy days for the teachers, regardless if their excuse is valid or not. If ever they exceed the maximum allowed absences, they are obliged to pass all the students of the class—except those who failed due to absence. The faculty at hand

will then be considered failed in the evaluations due to absences and is subject to termination.

“Tsada jud ang new policy because at least, dili lang ang students ang ma sanction kung naa’y violation, apil na sad teachers. We really are experiencing excellence with this one,” expressed Gretchen Weiners (BSBA 3).

The memorandum will take effect on the following Academic Year wherein the teachers, as well as the students, are expected to perform well and abide by the new rules.C www.thecrusaderpublication.com

5

LAMPOON

XU to add Acting and Drama as prerequisite course

By Katy Perry the Platypus

O

n March 20, the Xavier University Board of Trustees approved the proposal of a new prerequisite course.

The said course is Acting and Drama (AD), which will be added in the new curriculum.

Board Member Art Saviour explained the need for the new course to be implemented as a prerequisite. “This is what the students need in this grandiose University. It is understandable that the students need to cope with the demands of the school to up our game, so Acting and Drama is our main solution,” Saviour said. He also added that “the Acting and Drama course will be very helpful to students, because they will be able to apply what they have learned when there are notable visitors in the campus like Pah Az Kho.” Pah Az Kho is a voluntary and

non-profit corporation that accredits the best pretending, goody two shoes schools, colleges, and universities. XU is on the running to attaining a higher level in the Pah Az Kho accreditation, thus the need to be more contrived.

University President Bobbie Salazar announced that the said course is also a requirement upon graduation. “Just like FFP, NSTP, SLP, and AGAPE, AD should be taken by students before they can graduate. We have already engaged students in pastoral works. Now let us engage them in show business,” Salazar reiterated. AD will be taken by freshmen students either on the first semester or second semester.

Culture and the Arts (CA) Faculty Member Teddie May Humor will be one of the first teachers to teach AD in XU. Humor stated that

the course outline is already ready. “The syllabus includes basics and fundamentals of acting, how to be dramatic in serious occasions, and acting demonstrations.” In addition, students will also be taught how to wholesomely answer guests’ questions pertaining to XU’s status, and how to ride along with the University’s facade during Pah Az Kho and other monumental events.

AD will be added in every school and college curriculum starting AY 2019-2020. “The goal is to orient students and mold them into good actors before the institution welcomes new notable guests, and ideally turn them into good fabricators of truth before the next Pah Az Kho visit,” Salazar mentioned.C

XU to implement personal guidance counselor policy Photo and design by Jayson Elvie G. Ty

By Jomzkie_rak! \m/

F

ollowing the continuous complaints of the graduating students, the University Administration, with approval from the Academic Vice President (AVP) Fr. Rainy Escape-escape, implemented Policy No. 143,

4

titled the ‘Personal Guidance Counselor Policy’ on March 14.

This is after experiencing an unorganized and jittery process of counseling, which is a necessary requirement for graduation. This caused the prayer rally conducted on March 13 by the graduating students calling for the administration to request a personal counselor.

Several complaints by the students posted on Facebook Page “XU Confessions” have gone viral online after garnering thousands of shares and reactions publicly. According to Alice N. Wonderland (BSChE 5), the counseling procedure is unorganized and time consuming after experiencing a five-hour long agony of waiting for nothing. “Makaulit kaayo kay five hours gyud ko nag wait for interview pero gaunahon gyud nila og entertain tong ‘mag-pa sign’ nalang daw,” she complained.

Wonderland also added that there is only one guidance counselor working for four different

colleges, namely the College of Agriculture, Center of Integrated Technology, College of Arts and Sciences, and College of Computer Studies.

Separately, there are two guidance counselors for School of Business and Management (SBM).

“Imagine, isa ra kabook counselor sa upat ka colleges unya nag goot tanan students didto, while duha kabook counselor sa SBM pero maski isa wala gyud ga linya sa ilaha,” she added.

Other than this, complaints regarding the improper information dissemination of the Curriculum Vitae (CV) format also angered graduating students like Lee Jong Suk (ABPhilo 4). Suk shared that his resume was revised three times because the skills he wrote in the resume did not reach the desired requirement number, he did not put any awards, and lastly, it was not reproduced from the Bookstore. “Pugson ba diay nga lima ra akong skills? Pugson ba diay og butang kung wala koy award nadawatan? Og pugson ba diay nga sa bookstore gyud magpa photocopy nga tag 27 raba gyud kaayo!”

Because of this, the students decided to hire their personal guidance counselor for a “better and more organized counseling process for the graduating students.” For Escape-escape, the policy is a good and efficient solution for the students in order to help them achieve a smoother clearance process prior to graduation. As of press time, the policy will take effect on Academic Year (AY) 2019-2020.C Vol. 6 No. 1 March 2019

LAMPOON

Free shuttle reservations to be accommodated by OSA

By Aizt Kopi

Design by Melvin P. Villacote

D

announcement for shuttle FUV-4201 to SM Downtown,” student assistant Massy Pag-acut (BS Psych 2) announced after the four ascending notes resonated around the Magis canteen. Pagacut also tried the final call voice over, announcing, “this is the final loading call for passengers Mr. Werna Yu and Ms. Ace Naqa reserved on shuttle FUV-4201 to SM Downtown.” In addition, arrival announcements and schedules will also be flashed on the Magis TVs.

One of the free shuttle patrons, Mouchel Ang (BSCE 4) was enthusiastic as soon as he heard the news. “Now, pwede nako mag wait and chill sa Magis without worrying na maunhan ko. I don’t even have to stand ug antos sa kainit dadto sa main gate.”

Additional routes going to XU Manresa, SM Uptown, XU Pueblo Campus, and back to XU will be added on June 2019. C

XU clinic offers new amenities

By Ding Bat

E

ffective next year, the administration announced a series of revisions made to the University Health Services alongside proposed blueprints for a wellness center and rehabilitation program through Memorandum 9¾, on March 2.

Seeing that it has always been one of the University’s upmost priorities to sustain and protect the wellbeing of its students, the administration recognizes the apparent shortage in the services the University offers. More importantly, there is also an absence of key facilities and amenities to fully accommodate the ever-growing number of students who check themselves into the clinic to sleep. As such, a full renovation of the system is now underworks. The proposed updates to the University Health Services are as follows: Aside from medical and dental care already available to students, there will be additional areas of care focusing on mental health, recreational therapy, nutritional counseling services, fitness, Crucheber

The

chiropractic care, alternative Asian quack medicine, behavioral rehabilitation, and subspecializations such as neuropsychological hypnosis sciences. Major surgeries will also be conducted when necessary.

Since there will be a number of classroom vacancies in the absence of the third and fourth tertiary levels, these areas will be specifically designed as 10-bed capacity capsule rooms to house the patients. The remaining classrooms will be renovated as recreational enclosures furnished with couches and recliners, table tennis and billiards tables, dart boards, arcade games, vending machines; complete with mini fridges and a surround sound mini movie theater.

“I didn’t want to just be excused from being absent in class,” confessed prototype patient 001.

“I wanted more privileges, a place to sleep during breaks—a change in lifestyle.”

On weekends, the XU Soccer Field will be converted to an open golf course and the Xavier

Ateneo Sports Centre (XASC) swimming pool will be used for therapeutic water zumba.

University patients will be confined to the premises for the duration of their ailment—or lack thereof—upon submission of his or her signed consent and written will. They will be provided with a University-prescribed uniform of standard white cloth and a Patient Identification Wristband will replace their University IDs and medical certificates. Upon inspection by security, faculty, or staff, the patient is regarded with firstclass treatment and is granted full immunity from academic and organizational responsibility.

“It’s all I ever wanted,” cried prototype patient 007.

Those students who are unable to settle hospital charges may voluntarily subject his or her person to in-campus experimental tests at the Science Center (SC).C

www.thecrusaderpublication.com

3

Photo byAlhakim B. Palanggalan

ue to popular demand, Office of Student Affairs (OSA) now offers a free shuttle ride reservation service in partnership with Free Ride Everywhere Office Region X (FREOX). Students and all other members to the XU community can now schedule and reserve a free shuttle ride. The initiative was made along with the newly installed announcement speakers in the Magis canteen, making it convenient for the reservees to know the arrival of their designated shuttle. Temporarily, the reservation booth will be stationed at the OSA Office while the construction at the center of the Magis canteen is ongoing. They will be accepting reservations starting April 11.

“This is to cater those who want to utilize the free shuttle service going to malls, such as SM,” OSA Director Yvaneil Subrapass explained.

“Because of the tight schedule of our Xavier Ateneans, this service would bring convenience on their part. Also, we want to encourage, especially the students, to unwind from time to time.” Students can reserve their preferred free shuttle rides on the following schedules: 11AM, 12NN, 1PM, 3PM, and 5PM, with routes going to Ayala Centrio, SM Downtown, Limketkai, and back to XU. The reservation is a ‘first come, first serve’ basis and interested reservees will only need to show his or her Xavier Ateneo ID to complete the transaction.

On February 31, TheCruchever got the opportunity to witness the dry run of the free shuttle reservation and announcement. “Good afternoon Xavier Ateneo. This is the pre-loading

LAMPOON

SLMIS to launch ‘Transfer Attendance’ on AY 2019-2020

By Aizt Kopi

O

Design by Jayson Elvie G. Ty

Photo by Gene Gerard G. Verona

n February 30, the proposed ‘Transfer Attendance’ feature on the Student Lifecycle Management Information System (SLMIS) has been approved and will be implemented on AY 2019-2020. This feature was developed to address the failure due to absences (AF) issue of the students. As a Xavier Atenean student that aims to abide by the Ignatian value of Magis, involvement in multiple organizational activities could also mean sacrificing their academic attendance.

“This feature will not only motivate students to continue doing more, but also enrich another Ignatian value, which is to be men and women for others,” Higher Education Vice President Reynee Sacatacas presumes.

The idea was first introduced by Inno V. Tor (BSCS ‘18) during his thesis project.

As shown in the beta version demonstration, the newly added feature can be found on the SLMIS dashboard under the ‘Student Center’ option. “If a student with a sufficient number of allowable absences wants to share, they need to input the ID number of

the recipient, specify the subject code, and select the number of allowable absences they wish to transfer,” Computing and Information Services Office (CISO) Director Herley Keen explained. As soon as the transfer is done, the attendance record of that student will automatically update.

Upon asking the students’ consensus, the feature received both positive and negative feedback. “Oh my gee [sic] I really love this kay like, I’m very busy man gyud sa akong orgs [sic] plus academics,” Oluis B. Sisyah (BS Devcom 3) gushes as soon as he found out about the new feature. “With this, I can now ask my beshiewaps [sic] na di ga use sa ilang seven allowable absences to lend it to me. Kay, as much as I like my course, I also want to keep on doing Magis, you know.”

Abshi Knot (ABIS 3) also stated the same thing, “Chada ni siya bay kay sharing is loving baya.”

However, not all students were happy about it. “I don’t want this, actually. Kay mag salig samot ang mga oat or watevah [sic],” Phoebi Boo (BSBA 3) opposes. As a straight-A student with no records of being late or absence, Boo thinks this feature will encourage students to act upon “more irresponsible and unproductive behavior.”

CISO will be launching a dry run for the feature this coming summer, and will be making it available for the tertiary level only. C

XU students accuse teacher of discrimination and verbal harassment

By Hohja Ikrimah

A

number of students have complained about a discriminative faculty member in the University. The students accused him of hate speech due to his prejudicial remarks in his class since the beginning of the semester.

Last February, both the Commission on Students Rights and Welfare (STRAW) and Office of Student Affairs (OSA) have been approached by the complaining students.

So far, four students have complained about the teacher. “He has been making discriminatory remarks in his class lately. It’s obvious that he is anti-Lesbians Gays Bisexuals and Transexuals (LGBT),” complained an LGBT movement supporter Bekky Lehng (Psych 4). The complaining students call the accused instructor as “The Cat” for anonymity purposes, though it is rumored that he is a devout Catholic teacher.

“Dili lang siya ga-discriminate. Hinay kaayo 2

ang iyahang voice at dili klaro gyud. Na-F ko sa Midterms,” cried frustrated Rogelio Nabigo (BSBA 4). “Almost all questions from his handouts were about the sacracy of marriage and why homosexuality is a sin,” said feminist activist Anna Feminina (BSCE 5). Two anonymous students claimed to have nearly engaged in a spontaneous debate with The Cat, “Minsan nagiging offensive na talaga siya. His remarks about gay people are sometimes below the belt na.” The Cat was also rumored to be power tripping in class. “He told me I had 10 absences, where in fact I only had 7. I counted it and I showed him proof but he wouldn’t believe me. He said his decision to mark me AF is final.” another complaint came from Stew Diyos (ABIS 4).

Apart from the number of complaints and criticisms, the complaining students are forced to reciprocate and go along with The Cat’s class

discussions. “Graduating students mi karon.

So, we have no choice but to follow The Cat’s instructions, read his anti-homosexual handouts, or else F na mi sa iyahang subject,” reported Nabigo.

Religious Studies Department Chairperson Waslinda Cathousand PhD. defended The Cat by reminding the students of the instructor’s job as a Religious Studies teacher, “our curriculum is based on the teachings of the Church and Catholic principles in which we cannot go against or extrapolate its contents and teachings.” However, Cathousand told the teachers of the department to be more mindful of their words in class.

The Cat was requested for an interview, but the faculty member was unreachable and can hardly be found in the campus.

In spite of what has been said, the complaining students are adamant in their decision to file complaints against the discriminatory Cat. C Vol. 6 No. 1 March 2019

LAMPOON

Editor’s Note

By Cora Contrabida

Cora Contrabida, Editor in Chief,TheCruchever

XU named among top 10 most haunted sites in the Philippines

By Ding Bat

H

eadlined in the news site wikipedia. com and accredited by the Philippine Department of National Statistics, XU was tagged as one of the 10 most haunted sites in the Philippines for 2019 (right beside Balete Drive and Siquijor Island) after the recent emergence of ghost “encounters” stories from social media app Twitter.

The stream of tweets on multiple accounts of supernatural tales was originally initiated by the hashtag #CDOEncounters, which apparently, had most of its stories set in XU specifically.

This discovery led viewers to investigate the Jesuit institution and the origins surrounding the harrowing rumors.

Established in 1933, the University bore witness to the horrors of the second World War and was victim to the Japanese forces that invaded the city. The halls and rooms of the University Crucheber

The

were occupied by Japanese militants and were reconditioned as a stand-in battalion headquarters with improvised prisons and torture chambers.

Accounts of murder and torture live to this day, now still alive in the ghastly apparitions and unexplainable noises depicted in the “encounters.”

Frequent scenes of the horror tales include, but are not limited to, the Science Center (SC) building, the Social Science (SS) building, the Engineering Building, the XU Church, and possibly every female comfort room that has ever been built.

This latest identification was further endorsed after digital media company BuzzFeed reached out to the administration with the interest of broadcasting the University in their documentary series “BuzzFeed Unsolved.”

The overnight trend may have led to instant internet fame, but it has also caused a slight commotion in the XU community. Vice President

for Mission and Ministry Rina Ukulele issued a statement dismissing the designation as something that does not represent the institution as a whole.

“The title does not make Xavier University what it is now,” Ukulele insisted. “It is how we go forward about it that matters.”

In response to the news, the administration has installed wooden crosses in various locations in campus. Some comfort rooms will also be closed off to the public to minimize contact with the other side. For safety, a proposal to bless all classrooms every first Sunday of the month has been urged.

Despite the measures being made to make XU less haunted, a lot of students and people from the XU community still want the school with a scary image. “We stan a haunted school,” exclaimed Maria Labo (ABPhilo 4).C

www.thecrusaderpublication.com

1

Cover by Rizalyka Joanne M. Waminal

P

inning my hopes on the recent Botar Atenista results that the newly elected officers are real leaders that will truly serve their time, and aren’t just there to orchestrate meh events that’s not helping students with their concerns. Assuming that the subscribers of The Cruchever are woke enough to fathom that leading starts in school, this institution’s vision in shaping us to be leaders is still surely in the process.

become a leading ASEAN university by 2033; one that forms leaders of character,” Director J’uvanell D. Lincoln explained. Then, can you explain to me how my hair color affects my leadership? I’D LIKE TO KEEP IT ON PLEASE! “This is an academe, a place for learning. Miss Contrabida, what part of that do you not understand? And I would like to see your hair in jet black... tomorrow,” he added. I left feeling appalled by the answers I got.

You say jet black? I say bald! Why not? You’re saying that hair color is a hindrance in learning, eh? Let’s see if it still is when I won’t have hair color anymore because I’ll go hairless. I stand by my principles and I don’t think one’s hair has an effect on one’s leadership. I am ready for the people’s sexist remarks—but I will never be shaken. Take time to relish my portrait for this is the last time you’ll see my silky, electric yellow hair.

To all the students and subscribers of The Cruchever, watch me break the stereotypical standards of a leader of character. Because newsflash: being a leader is standing up for your rights (no matter the hair and fashion sense).

To a new age of mainstream media in satirical form!C

Illustration by Jayson Elvie G. Ty

Yiel O. Tard

As Xavier Ateneo is on it’s headway towards global competitiveness, TheCruchever is releasing it’s sixth circulation, as the most impeccable lampoon magazine in town. It features the concrete steps XU has been taking for the advancement of the school as it aspires to impress the PAASCU accreditors. Elevators have operators now, but they’re not ate “elevator girl” though, how disappointing! Office of Student Affairs (OSA) also accommodates free shuttle services, to name a few. Everyday it feels like XU’s revealing a new look, one after another, and a wig reveal after a wig reveal. It’s funny though— knowing XU had this alternate face we’ve never seen. I mean, this school surely knows how to play the game!

But then after reading the new policy OSA mandated, I—who just had my hair colored— am deeply horrified. Resolution No. 258 or the Prohibition of Unnatural Hair Color Act of 2019. How can they do this?! I FEEL VERY ATTACKEDT! I know they’ve been very strict in the implementation of the Dress Code but this is unimaginable.

I stormed into OSA to take a chance and ask about what drew them into banning unnatural hair colors inside the campus. “Gibayran ata ni siya kay ngano yellow man ang buhok. Pang promote nis election ba.” “Agay! Dilawan gyud diay ning taga cruchevz!” I scorned the passersby’s comments.

Pure nonsense! How is my electric yellow hair associated with being a Dilawan? With angst, I entered the room and asked for the Director’s presence. “It’s one of our concrete steps to