Inside: New Spaces ID Data Error XU Security Breach
Crusader
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Cover Story
Cover Story
Publishers Subscribing Students of Xavier University Editorial Board Winona Roselle Serra Editor in Chief Abdel Rafi M. Lim Associate Editor Derrick Kean A. Auxtero Design Editor* Jayson Elvie G. Ty Managing Editor* Paula Elaine D. Francisco Photography Editor* Melvin P. Villacote Graphic & Layout Editor Rafhael L. Jabongga Freehand Editor Jean Mika M. Aporillo Video Productions Director Finance Officers Sumayyah G. Caris Auditor* Rafhael L. Jabongga Senior Finance Manager* Managers Paula Elaine D. Francisco Human Resource* Jean Mika M. Aporillo Office Manager* Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas Circulations Manager* Melvin P. Villacote Online Accounts Manager* Adrian Kyle R. Monsale Junior Computer Systems Manager (Trainee) James Sean Kenneth A. Sarcol Junior Computer Systems Manager (Trainee) Staff Writers Ellai Kristopher P. Badelles (Trainee) Norman C. Calib-og (Trainee) Amanda Marie B. Hora (Trainee) Nia Enrille R. Rabanes (Trainee) Staff Artists Edshera Mae R. Abella (Trainee) Jhovale Ryan A. Edloy (Trainee) NiĂąo Vincent B. King (Trainee) Catherine Marie C. Naldoza (Trainee) James Patrick B. Pabonita (Trainee) Jivi Roy D. Rizaldo (Trainee) Karla Mae H. Romero Lynette L. Tuvilla (Trainee) Moderator Mr. Stephen Roy J. Pedroza *Interim For contributions, please address your articles and/or comments to: TheCrusader Publication Office, Rm. 302, Student Training Center Bldg, Xavier University 9000, Cagayan de Oro City Circulation: 2,500 copies
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Table of Contents 1 2 4 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 16 17 18 19 20 22
Editorial Column To Excellency and Beyond The Gender Game: Transitions and Oppositions ID: Identification Defect PIIE: Unsolved In the Guise of Normal From Class to Court: Penalties of the Patriarchy End of the Line Unheeded Invitations Traces of New Spaces XU and the Order of the Plastic Ban Discomfort Rooms Moreno: Making it Metro Cora Contrabida bags Loyaltea Award Comics Hohongihong
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ssues resurface as the Supreme Court promulgates its resolution to an anonymous complaint against the harassment of three former students from the University’s College of Law. The community is left to review the past to question the future.C Words by Winona Roselle Serra Photo by Paula Elaine D. Francisco
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The official student publication of Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan Vol. 46 No. 1 August 2019
Email your comments & suggestions to thecrusaderpub@gmail.com
EDITORIAL
Shunned and shut down
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Illustration by Sumayyah G. Caris
When the very institution that lives by the mission of protecting and promoting “the right of every Filipino to quality, equitable, culturebased, and complete basic education” disappoints their own dedicated oath, what trust can we place on the motives of their decisions? Should we rely on the facts they present to the masses, on the statements they release to justify their deeds? Dated July 12, the Department of Education (DepEd) issued the suspension of 55 Lumad schools operated by Salugpungan Ta’ Tanu Igkanogon Community Learning Center Inc. (Salugpungan). This was followed through with the approval of DepEd Southern Mindanao Officer in Charge Evelyn Fetalvero. The act sought to render the schools’ permits to operate as invalid. During a press briefing regarding the issue, DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones clarified that the primary reasoning behind their decision was due to the noncompliance of the said schools with the requirements placed by DepEd. However, the Department also acted upon the heed of National Security Adviser (NSA) Hermogenes Esperon Jr. on a report which proclaimed the centers to have been indoctrinating students with anti-government propaganda. Esperon also chairs the Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict, a group assembled by President Rodrigo R. Duterte himself. Posed as preemptive measures to isolate security threats from the roots, having this as justification is not only insufficient but entirely misguided. Where do we draw the line between careful prevention and deliberate persecution? The DepEd should not have acted on the claims of armed groups, and instead opted to abide by their mandate of providing education. If the allegations made against the group were true, the first thing the Department should have done is assess whether the resources and attention given to them were enough, and evaluate whether their teachings are up to par with general standards. Instead, they went against their very nature, ending up as the instruments to finish military objectives. With this line of thinking, it is as if the problem was only resolvable through uncompromising means. No matter, Indigenous People’s rights to education and culture should bear more weight than any accusation. The Lumad people already experience discrimination and violation of human rights even before the proclamation, thus, this only puts them in a position of further endangerment. Their access to education and their very identity is at stake now that their culture-specific learning centers are being targeted. Although the DepEd explains that only 22 out of 55 schools were affected and that several other unrelated institutions are being closed down yearly, it does not dismiss the fact that the Lumads are placed in more unfavorable circumstances. Forcing them to relocate to nearby schools, cutting off accessible avenues for learning, and ostracizing them as a minority unfit to have their own identity goes against their right as Filipino citizens—and as people. On top of that, the order was announced to the media even before any dialogue between the two parties werev arranged. This only furthers the argument that the Salugpungan are being deprived of their rights, here being their right to due process. The recent revelations do not simply amass to the collateral damage of the DepEd in their yearly rounds of school dismissals, but instead is an indigenous-centric, targeted crime of identity suppression. It is not a discussion of DepEd simply closing schools—it is about the Lumads and their plight. We stress about the extent of their victimization. And this act was simply a stroke within the years worth of assault they had already experienced as a people.C
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OPINION
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Lonny Breaux By Paula Elaine D. Francisco
here my Twitter people at? I hope your tea was well served today. Was it hot? What type of tea was it? Green, herbal, or of clout? Cliche as it is, social media is not a safe space anymore. It’s where we find people who eat attention for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They get so hungry that a 280-character limited snack becomes a whole thread of attacking others, and interfering with other people’s businesses is now served as their favorite delicacy. Everyone loves attention, the fact is undeniable. But when we start to crave it, it’s a different story entirely. It could be nature’s way of pointing out one’s loneliness. No harm meant but we all know what they say: “bato bato sa langit, ang tamaan ‘wag magalit.” In a democratic country, we all should feel free to express ourselves. It is understood that we are all entitled to our own opinions, but we shouldn’t drag it to where it’s not needed. There are things that should only be kept to ourselves. Process information first to avoid doing stupid
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LAPRAS By Derrick Kean A. Auxtero
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What’s the tea sis? - a thread things (that’s called thinking, by the way). Don’t brew someone else’s tea—unless it’s your mom’s or you’re getting paid for it. Kidding aside, the point is: people should mind their own business. What basis do we have in terms of attacking someone online? We might as well ask ourselves how grave another’s mistake was that it had to be publicized? What good would it do to both parties? There is a fine line between exposing and attacking someone. Isn’t streaming dogs on Reddit better than reading a whole thread about someone getting attacked? People have their own versions of a past time, and it’s nobody’s business, but we must all stand on common ground as to when a certain thing should remain wholesome. It is inevitable that social media could become toxic, but that doesn’t mean that we have to contribute to its toxicity. Remember that we always have a choice to not be stupid. The world might be better off for it. Choose your struggles, young Padawan.C
Here we go again
n 2013, the country was introduced to one of its biggest education reforms to date: the K-12 curriculum. However, six years after its implementation and two batches of senior high school (SHS) graduates later, flaws and challenges continue to plague the curriculum. Before its implementation, general subjects such as Mathematics and History were taken up by first and second year college students as a basic requirement. However, in the new curriculum, it was promised that these minor subjects were to be taught in SHS, giving tertiary students the chance to concentrate on specialized subjects that are aligned with their chosen field. If this was the plan, why does the current batch of SHS graduates still face the struggle of studying the same minor subjects? Isn’t the SHS program supposed to be specially tailored to prepare students for tertiary education? Courses such as Purposive Communication, Math in the Modern World, and Wika, Kultura at Lipunan all comprise topics and concepts that have been repeated from their SHS counterparts. Additionally, courses like Science, Technology,
and Society, and Sinesosyedad/Pelikulang Panlipunan both tackle topics that are oftentimes irrelevant to a student’s chosen field. As a result, students oftentimes find themselves strained and worked up from having to deal with these minor subjects. If you think about it, how would you expect an AB English Language student to appreciate writing a film analysis in Filipino? Similarly, how would you expect students to become engaged and interested in discussions on topics that have been taught to them a million times over? Of course, learning is anything but a linear process. Moving from point A to B, from one grade level to the next, will always require a few steps backward. However, the time and effort that a student puts into learning a subject should never be disregarded. On top of that, the price that comes with enrolling in minor courses and buying books does not come cheap. Instead of burdening students with unnecessary workload, the curriculum should be reconstructed in a way that puts more value on quality rather than quantity.C
Vol. 46 No. 1 August 2019
OPINION
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#LabanLang
To shift, or not to shift
ur parents have always been a major influence on us. Ever since we were young, they have been our guide. They decide the kind of education we receive as we grow up. If our parents want us to find our true happiness, why do they dictate what we should want? Why won’t they support us? As I entered college, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to choose my own course. I took up BSBA—because this is what I love— despite the fact that I knew my parents wanted me to pursue a medical degree. When I thought about it, I asked myself: do I want to be a doctor or would it lead to course shifting? I decided to talk to them and explain my course of choice. I decided not to pursue a medical course. I pursued a business course instead because I saw myself being successful in that field. Our parents may be the backbone of our futures and they may have the best intentions, but remember, these are our aspirations in life—not
theirs. It is disheartening to see other parents forcing their children to choose a career based on their expectations. Beyond that, the children would feel unhappy due to the controlling attitude of some parents. And some children are afraid that shifting to another course will result in conflict, therefore settling on living a less than ideal life, hindering their true capability. If you were pressured on your current course—shift now and prove to them that the decisions you make can lead you to success in your future career. Have the courage to tell them that the course you have decided to take up will make them proud parents. It’s never too late to speak up, even if it can be a challenge. Speak your mind and stand up to them. Voice out your ambition for your future lies in your hands. And lastly, express to them what you love to do. Let your decision shape your future and make that as your motivation to reach your dreams. Say it!C
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Dionysus By Melvin P. Villacote
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BS Org
eing a student is a lot more than just sitting around facing books and boards in a classroom. It is more than drowning ourselves with a shedload of schoolwork—all restrained within schedules. They say joining different student organizations will make college life more exciting, and that these groups will become second families. “Daghana nimo og orgs uy,” is what a “BS Org” would oftentimes hear in school. But one of the most important things in college is networking with people who share similar interests. Student organizations give us opportunities to broaden horizons and meet people who can further our success as we transition from school to the real world. While dealing with the struggles of being a college student, we might feel that organizing priorities and managing time can be a hassle. Student organizations have long been considered by some as distractions known to interfere with our schedules, stealing chunks of our time and trimming down our time allotted for schoolwork. As students engage in different college-based
and university-wide organizations, limited time is guaranteed for rest. These concerns can be aided by proper time management such as creating schedules to organize and set things out. We must learn to prioritize things and deal with important matters first. Deadlines are harder to meet if we lose and neglect the sense of urgency. There is a mundane saying that says, “time is gold,” but time is not gold since everyone has it. The real luxury lies in our means of making good use of it. No excuses are valid against time. It is how we manage it that makes way for busy schedules to be possible. Meeting new people and making new contacts is fun. And even if the time commitment can be heavy, being involved in a student organization adds important color to our campus life. Just remember to set goals that are coupled with discipline and motivation. Let this be a reminder to every student engaged in activities in school: time is beyond our control, but its proper management lies in our very own hands.C
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Photos by Jivi Roy D. Rizaldo
By Rafhael L. Jabongga
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Vol. 46 No. 1 August 2019
Design by Melvin P. Villacote
By Norman C. Calib-og
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Design by Derrick Kean A. Auxtero
Photo by Catherine Marie C. Naldoza
By Abdel Rafi M. Lim & Winona Roselle Serra
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ride. It’s the name we give celebrations that support minorities—quite fittingly so as it’s time that they reclaim their identity and sense of self-worth. Enter: pride march, the safe space for members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual or Allied (LGBTQIA+) community to speak out, be loud, and be proud. Groups have organized more and more pride marches nationwide. CDO alone had its fair share with Kadaiyahan Festival’s culminating Pride March on Dec 9, which saw more than 2,000 marchers. People are coming out, both figuratively and literally, to share their stories. Streets are marked with rainbows. With the increased number of these marches, one would think that the acceptance for the community would steadily increase as well. However, while the local uproar continues to grow stronger, it fails to penetrate the University’s walls. But the cries from within prove to be more difficult to silence. He’s a She! Despite having been transitioning for five years and counting, Steff Mari M. Mifrano’s (ABIS 1) student records still state that she is male—much to the confusion of the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) when they retrieved her ID during the data error in July. Mifrano has previously been wearing the designated uniform for females since last year without prior knowledge that this would be an issue. Since then, she has been told to wear the designated male uniform but with the female cut.
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OSA Director Ivanell R. Subrabas explains,“in a general sense, what is defined on our student handbook are prescribed uniforms for male and female, which is the sole basis for the implementation of the uniform policy. Our office will be open for dialogues and discernment on the matter in order to address this ambiguity in our policy.” Mifrano has been advised to obtain records of her hormone count and estrogen levels. However, after consulting with an endocrinologist and obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN), she reports that the need to send the medical samples to Manila proves to be a challenge. Besides the additional expenses required, the test results are estimated to arrive three weeks after request— compromising the accuracy of the results as her constant intake of hormones causes the count to fluctuate. “I understand na there’s a process and everything, pero, dili man sad siguro na kailangan nako i-backup na trans ko,” Mifrano expresses. No one else was required to prove his/her identity as a person. We Are Who We Are As an educational institution, XU strives to provide top-level quality education that caters not only to a student’s learning, but to the student’s formation and growth as well. OSA is mandated to provide “support services needed to maintain an atmosphere conducive for study and personal development of students.” With this comes the responsibility of upholding the students’ rights to freedom of expression and the comfort of a conducive learning atmosphere. This also includes
the need to create an environment that prevents insecurity and bullying. Mifrano has visited a neuropsychiatrist who released a statement backing up that she is still currently transitioning and that her “thinking, feeling, and behavior are consistent with those of the female sex”. Recently, Mifrano submitted both her personal and doctor’s letter to the OSA who has then permitted her to use the female uniform. However, this does not dismiss the fact that she had to consider submitting laboratory test results without prior guarantee of the Administration’s verdict. This does not cancel out their previous attempt to prevent her from wearing the University’s standard female uniform. As the first case of its kind, OSA shares that this matter will be brought up to University President Fr. Roberto C. Yap S.J. as a point for future references. *** There is little good in restricting and concealing the truth that every person is different. In truth, identity should not be a matter of ambiguity within the rules, much more a matter of compromise. It is not some disposable thing that can be altered and hidden to please others. It is not some game of hide and seek or playing dressup. The world alone provides enough opposition to the oppressed already, and the University can always choose to transition into something more capable of love.C Additional source: https://www.xu.edu.ph/osa
Vol. 46 No. 1 August 2019
*** The inconvenience brought by the issue stemmed from the mistakes and errors of the offices. However, the emergence of the incident on the data error also gave the XU community a glimpse of the offices’ resilience. The alternative courses of actions presented were effective as they were trying to resolve the problem. Nevertheless, it must be of great consideration that IDs should be properly processed for it doesn’t only bring our security but also our Ateneo identity.C
ByByAmanda AmandaMarie MarieB.B.Hora Hora
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Design by Melvin P. G. Villacote Design by Jayson Elvie Ty
The Domino Effect The concern regarding the data error did not end with mere inconvenience experienced by XU students. It even extended to the questioning of safety and security inside the campus as students who entered XU were not required to show credentials to prove that they were enrolled. In response to this underlying concern, Subrabas expresses that XU is prepared with layers of security on campus. This comprises: screening at the gates which include checking of bags and IDs; guard posts on key areas in the campus; roving security guards who personally and physically monitor various activities on the grounds; surveillance cameras which cover the ability of campus security to watch and patrol areas; emergency phones which are located in conspicuous areas in all buildings; and the radio communication devices and IP phones accessibility for both security and University personnel to contact one another and respond to emergency situations. “The massive recall of IDs only affected the first layer. All other layers of security remained in place,” Subrabas underlines.
Ensuring Identity Security Amid the concerns, Subrabas assures the student body that a similar occurrence will not be repeated. “The incident occurred due to a change in the card reader deployed to us. This is not being done regularly,” he asserts, “we assure the students this will not happen again. There were a series of coordinations between OSA and CISO at the onset of the incident. All factors were duly noted to avoid similar incident [sic] in the future.” The IDs were retrieved on July 2 and the OSA returned the IDs to the students from July 8-13. Subrabas expresses his apology to all students directly affected by the data error. “What happened was an isolated case. We are regretful for what happened. Rest assured that due diligence was exercised to address the concern and that we assure the students of our continued commitment to ensure their safety and security on campus.”
Photo by James Patrick B. Pabonita
Unfolding the Technicality To simplify how the ID system works, Office of Student Affairs (OSA) Director Ivanell R. Subrabas explains that “the system is provided by CISO. OSA is only considered the end-user [...] of that particular system.” Subrabas clarifies that the responsibility of the data error was not only charged to OSA, but is shared with the Computing and Information Services Office (CISO). “So the data that is found in Falco is basically just coming from Student Lifecycle Management and Information System (SLMIS). Whatever data students have inputted during enrollment is only fed from SLMIS to Falco to make sure it's consistent,” Subrabas adds. The totality of what happened to this academic year’s data error involves technical issues with the card readers deployed to the OSA during the summer. Subrabas elaborated on the main reason behind the technical issue. “What happened was
the card reader that was deployed to us by CISO was not the correct model. [...] This particular school year, CISO changed our card readers. So in other words, we're not using the same card readers that we used in the past.” During the initial mass activation, the process did not turn out to be successful because the card readers were erroneous.
Design by Jayson Elvie G. Ty
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he corridors of the University were filled with warm welcomes during the opening of AY 2019-2020. But along with the aim of making everyone feel at home came a challenge that brought inconvenience to its constituents. One significant trait that makes XU’s name is its way of establishing the importance of pride in one’s identity. One way that best shows off how an Atenean practices this is through wearing the University ID. However, a recent data error left students unable to do so, leaving them questioning at the gates on July 1.
ByByAr-Raff i C.C.Macaumbos (Contributor) Macaumbos(Contributor) Ar-Raffi
Design by Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas
Photo by Paula Elaine D. Francisco
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n the summer of AY 2018-2019, reports silently circulated around the University regarding an alleged misuse of funds by the Philippine Institute of Industrial Engineering (PIIE) in XU led by its former President Carlo Paña. In addition to the misuse of funds, the cocurricular organization is also accused of breaking rules in processing financial transactions, possibly tainting the history of the organization. Unanswered Allegations According to David*, PIIE misused about Php 60,000-100,000. The current PIIE President Angelicque Alaiza also heard about the same information, but could not confirm it. The alleged misuse of funds was discovered after the Commission on Audit (COA) audited PIIE’s financial transactions and found a large amount of unjustified usage of funding. Alaiza claims that their predecessors were “lax lang kaayo” and may have overlooked the care of the official receipts. When Alaiza looked for the financial documents after her take over, she could not find them and noticed that several of the said receipts were missing. She discovered that their predecessors have passed multiple explanation letters in place of the missing receipts. “Na tambak [na] ang mga explanation letters.” Alaiza also shares that she saw a document containing an appropriated funding for food for PIIE members during the College of Engineering General Assembly on Aug 2018. There were 17 PIIE members who attended the event, but she says no food was served to them.
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Moreover, David reports that PIIE is also accused of forging signatures and failing to submit the organization registration fee to the Finance Office. However, the names of the officials whose signatures were forged and the kind of documents falsified could not be acquired. In addition, all XU organizations (except for the religious organizations) are mandated to deposit membership fees to the Finance Office. Instead, PIIE kept the money collected as cash on hand. But the accused officers’ reason for keeping the money, according to Alaiza, was because of the Finance Office’s slow processing and releasing of funding. Current Central Student Government (CSG) President and PIIE member Audrey Theresse Yu was also asked for an interview, but she declined. Aside from David, Alaiza is the only one who accommodated an interview. She stated that she tried to find out as much as she can about the issue to prepare herself and her administration, but the details were not disclosed to her by PIIE’s moderator. She guesses that maybe their moderator thought that the problem does not concern her and her administration. Code of Silence “Forgery, tampering with and/or falsification of school documents or securing or using such documents” are major offenses as stated in the 2019 Student Handbook Planner, Chapter 3 Code of Conduct under II. Offenses, B. Major Offenses, 6. Offenses Involving Dishonesty.
If the student(s) is/are proven guilty, they will be sanctioned to final character probation (disciplinary probation), mandatory work in the form of community service and formation sessions and counseling, suspension, nonreadmission, exclusion, or expulsion. The decision of the sanction is dependent on the investigating/ disciplinary board. However, for a little over four months, the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) has been silent about the issue. Whether a committee for the case has been formed, or punishments have been served is yet to be known. No explanation and information were released to the public. The letter sent to COA requesting for copies of the anomalous documents and requesting for an interview was not answered. Therefore, the XU community can only assume that the case is already being resolved. *** With an issue involving money such as this, heavy criticisms cannot be helped, especially that the people involved are student leaders. The name of the University, the College, and the Industrial Engineering program, are at stake as the case remains pending, and perhaps only a swift and decisive resolution can put it to rest.C *Name is changed per request of anonymity
Vol. 46 No. 1 August 2019
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Ready, Action! The XU Handbook Planner 2019 states in the Code of Conduct under Safety and Security, that “stealing or taking items from others without permission is considered a serious offense, and lost and found items must be surrendered to the OSA.” As of press time, OSA Director Ivanell Subrabas relays that his Office received the preliminary information about the incident and took action based on the essential information obtained. In the event that a collaboration is required to solve a security issue, the OSA may contact SSIO. As the lead unit in securing the XU Community, SSIO Chief Security Officer Col. Danilo Sotto narrates their protocol on breaches: action is taken mainly from the complaint forms filled up by the complainants (unless the breach was directly witnessed by a security guard). They are to check whether there were any CCTVs in the area and to have the complainant identify the essential variables to the case. When there is no footage available, an investigation is issued. As the central office to address student concerns, the OSA affirmed that they had properly accommodated Angel’s case. On the other hand, the SSIO admitted difficulty with identifying the culprit in their investigation. It proved to be a
disadvantage that the only resource available was a one-angled video footage of the crime scene. The safety measures of checking the IDs and signing the logbook would have been helpful to the investigation, but Sotto noted that an agreement with the Church Office issues that visitors with the intention of going to the University Church did not require such. *** With a desire for justice to be served, Angel hopes for a better security system and a more thorough process of investigation. In the effort for improvement, OSA included a further developed session on campus safety and security during the Orientation Seminar (OrSem). They would also take responsibility of constantly reminding students to safeguard their personal belongings on campus. The Physical Plant Office (PPO) and Campus Development Office are also working hard to make sure that facilities are compliant with safety standards. “While XU is committed to providing the community with a safe and secure environment, students should remember that security is a shared responsibility of the entire community,” Subrabas asserts, “the best way to prevent it (theft) is to exercise personal diligence.” Sotto shares the same sentiment saying, “security starts with you.” XU as a safe home is, after all, achieved through embodying the responsibility expected of each one of its constituents.C *Name is changed per request of anonymity
By Nia Enrille R. Rabanes
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Photo by James Patrick B. Pabonita
Miss Quick Hands An unlikely case of theft occurred in the most frequently visited area of the University, the Magis canteen, on June 17. Like many students who want to snack on vacant periods, Angel* occupied a table with her classmates by the Potato Corner stand. She planned to get food from the stalls a distance away from her area and only brought a portion of her money with her. After making her purchase, she returned to the table to find her wallet missing. The first initiative she took was to visit the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) to ask whether her wallet was turned over, to which they responded that it wasn’t. Taking further action, she decided to write a letter to OSA the following day, asking to view the CCTV footage. The video displayed a middle-aged woman in civilian clothes (assumed to be an outsider) who had approached the table to discreetly swipe the wallet from Angel’s bag into her own. Unfortunately, the only available image is unable to help identify the
culprit, leading to no opportunities for tracking her route. OSA Student Ethics Head Faith Silmonet addressed the concern and advised her on the actions to take. The case was turned over to the Safety, Security, and Information Office (SSIO) for further investigation. Angel was told to wait for updates but they never came.
Design by Derrick Kean A. Auxtero
U students dub the school as a home, essentially an institution where they can cultivate their skills, foster meaningful relationships, and establish the goals necessary towards reaching their dreams. It’s the perfect training ground for breaking out of comfort zones while still feeling a sense of safety, and for taking risks while still feeling assured. Ideally, the environment expected from this significant avenue of growth is one where students can do all those things with ease. This ideal is challenged when the place we so heartily call home fails to feel safe.
COVER STORY
By Abdel Rafi M. Lim and
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W inona Roselle Ser ra
Vol. 46 No. 1 August 2019
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here will always be a single truth amidst a sea of varying perspectives. The privilege of pursuing it is given to those deemed to be righteous, trustworthy, and fearless in the face of adversity. Once you’ve made the decision to learn the ways of the Law, it is only fitting that you turn to a seasoned professional—a master of his craft. But what do you do when the Scales of Justice is forcefully tipped against your favor? Who do you turn to when he becomes consumed by his own power?
Veritas Liberabit Vos Despite the fact that Co Untian never demanded sexual favors from his students, the SC still found his uncouth behavior as sufficient grounds to merit a punishment of this magnitude—especially because of his legal background “What the law aims to punish is the undue exercise of power and authority manifested through sexually charged conduct or one filled with sexual undertones,” the resolution read. The case may be the first of its sort to surface and be brought to the SC’s attention, but it is far from being the only one. The power play that people in authority exploit in order to satisfy their malicious intents may discourage victims from speaking up, but there are rules in place. “The law has been there [sic] a long time,” Borja prompts, “It’s a question of how courageous you are.” To supplement, Borja advises anyone who might feel that they’re being sexually harassed in the University to ask any lawyer or the Human Resources Office (HRO) for a copy of the AntiSexual Harassment Law. “You have the Law. You have the rights. Enforce the rights,” he adds. Furthermore, Borja asserts that the resolution is proof that things can be done when fought for. “I don’t think any professor now can say nga he has impunity. Nobody has impunity here—doesn’t matter who that professor is.” *** There is little love reserved for perpetrators of abuse. And for their victims, there is none at all. Those who misuse the profession, who turn power into something perverse, only fabricate their own inevitable demise. And although these events further solidify the notion that our culture is plagued by arrogant, indecent, and ill-willed men who assume thrones of their own, it also paves the way for a system that is unforgiving in its service of fairness. He who was once a great shadow preying over others is now merely a speck of darkness in the blindfolds of Lady Justice’s eyes.C Additional sources: http://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/4574/ http://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/4576/ https://www.xu.edu.ph/xavier-news/158-xu-ateneo-news-sy2019-2020/4127-official-statement-re-suspension-of-former-xulaw-professor-atty-cresencio-co-untian-jr
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Photo by Paula Elaine D. Francisco
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No Shame Announced on July 8, the Supreme Court (SC) released the resolution that officially prohibited Co Untian from practicing law for five years and teaching law in any school for 10. The resolution has just been promulgated on April 10 in response to an “Anonymous Complaint” that goes back to May 14, 2002. Co Untian was free to exercise his attorneyship before this. Borja, who was also a former associate of Co Untian, underlined how severe the sentence is for someone of Co Untian’s character. “He loves to teach,” Borja reveals, “although maybe his style of teaching was not what you would call healthy, he loved teaching—more than he loved lawyering per se.” However, Borja also believes the penalty could have been harsher. “For the sake of immobilizing him as a lawyer, that’s pretty strong. But for the sake of showing to the people how bad the thing is, it could have gone all the way to disbarment,” he states. Co Untian is the first law professor the High Court had to penalize for sexually harassing his students, as written by Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen in a separate concurring opinion. In the document, Leonen also expressed his inclination of not only suspending Co Untian, but disbarring him “to uphold the profession’s standards of moral integrity”—had it not been the first time. Borja further reiterates this notion. “[The] Supreme Court is breaking new ground here. [...] It’s the first of its kind in the [Philippines].” Although Co Untian’s case is closely tied with XU due to his affiliation and the setting of the incidents, there is little reason to link the University with such distasteful acts. Borja believes that XU only pioneered the first-ever occurrence in the nation and that we are not suffering for it. “The society is not marked, is [sic] tainted, because crimes are committed. But rather how it reacts to the crimes,” Borja stresses. “Xavier, I think, should consider itself as coming through this
with flying colors. It acted decisively, quickly,” he adds, in reference to Co Untian’s dismissal from the University in 2002. “I’m proud of Xavier. I’m proud of what we did,” Borja asserts.
Design by Melvin P. Villacote
Cases and Counterarguments In 2002, the XU Committee on Decorum convened ad hoc as three cases from former students against then XU law professor Atty. Cresencio P. Co Untian, Jr. were put into writing as complaint-affidavits. A complaint-affidavit disclosed that Antoinette Toyco claimed to have received flowers, romantic texts, and an invitation to Camiguin which she ultimately refused. Co Untian contradicted this, stating that this was the other way around as he had received gifts from her on Valentine’s Day 2002. Moreover, he considered his “luv u” and “miss u” texts to be nothing more than friendly considering their misspelling. Nevertheless, these gestures left her degraded and in fear of reprisal. Christina Sagarbarria was shown part of a photograph of a woman’s face and was asked to identify her. After realizing that she looked like the woman, Co Untian revealed the remainder of the image to be that of a naked woman and teased her. In his defense, he argued that he showed her the photograph—which he confiscated from another student—as they were previously close as uncle and niece and able to discuss mature topics. He added that she was not humiliated as she lowered her pants to show her tattoo which the naked woman did not have. While she was able to deny it, the incident left her depressed and unable to participate in a scheduled moot court competition. The third was of Lea Dal’s case which documented that she clarified Co Untian’s question during one of their class recitations with, “sir, come again?” to which Co Untian responded with “what? You want me to come again? I have not come the first time and don’t you know it took me five minutes to come, and you want me to come again?” Co Untian explained that Dal’s response was disrespectful and that she should never use slang in class in order to prevent being misinterpreted. He further expounded that he only responded
in that way to inject humor in class and that Dal did not show signs of resentment or humiliation. However, Dal reported to have been offended by the sexually charged language, in addition to having this instance retold to other classes. After hearing both sides, the Committee on Decorum found Co Untian guilty of violating the University’s Anti-Sexual Harassment Guidelines and therefore dismissed him from his duties. Retired Justice Romulo V. Borja who was College of Law Dean at the time recounts that Co Untian also “filed an illegal termination case before the NLRC—National Labor Relations Commission[...] He lost that case.”
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chool isn’t a smooth sailing freeway unhindered by traffic and roadblocks. Sometimes, the busy roads we take to get an education are riddled with potholes of every size, unwanted red lights that take too long to go green, and overly-expensive taxes. Yet our persevering nature as students pressured by the standards of family and society urges us to hold on to the steering wheel, even when we are held immobile. At times, we realize we have chosen to drive on the wrong path, and decide to change courses. We might also have felt that traveling was not for us, opting to stay clear of the roads for a while. But when we find ourselves back at the starting point, taking that chance to study again, some are more than happy to point out how far behind we are from everyone else. But are we to blame?
Design by Derrick Kean A. Auxtero
Crawler, Dallier, Dawdler, Lagger Although the actual origins of the word remain unknown, the label “stragglers” has earned quite the notorious reputation within the University. Formally defined by the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary as “a person or an animal that is among the last or the slowest in a group to do something, for example, to finish a race or leave a place,” it has become the general term for irregular students outside of the standard year level progression. Academic Vice President for Higher Education Juliet Q. Dalagan, PhD describes them as students who are “not into the correct batch anymore. So it means to say their batch has already been graduate na, [...] so they’re behind in their subjects.” Although Dalagan affirms that the phenomenon is not entirely common, the instances stem from quite a number of common occurrences within the University. Firstly, transferees, or students coming from different educational institutions, may be subject to irregularity as some subjects that XU offers may be missing from their records. Shiftees also share a similar situation during their transitions from courses, where they are needed to comply with specific majors. Returnees, however, are special cases. “They started here and then they stopped for maybe two, three years, and they come back,” Dalagan explains. They are also the most likely to be left behind by their original batch. Although, the most recurrent reason for lagging behind can be attested to failed subjects. May it be from an F mark or a failure due to absence (AF), the need to retake a course opens up a whole plethora of academic problems. With the accumulated pressure of keeping pace with
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the system, what other stop sign might be hindering them? Ah yes: insensitive teachers. Struggler “You need to pass all your subjects this sem, kay actually, ‘stragglers’ nalang mo karon mga nabilin, pag new curriculum na lang?” Throughout the years, the term’s definition blurred and merged with one that is more negative in nature. There have been reports of teachers mockingly calling students “strugglers”, a derogatory innuendo ridiculing their supposed difficulty in keeping up with what is expected, and their prolonged stay as an undergraduate student of the University. “They don’t know nga sa amoang part, grabe na ka lain amoang gaka feel sa amoang selves,” John Ramirez*, one of the students affected, expresses. He emphasizes on how some teachers use the word lightly, as if invalidating their present efforts to do better. In response, Dalagan assures to remind the faculty not to use the term offensively through the Dean’s Council. “We will do our part as well na not to use the term anymore, [...] we can be stand corrected [sic] with that.” Dalagan also apologizes for the word “stragglers”, expressing how it was not meant to discourage students. “It’s an eye-opener,” she remarks. Go-getter, Hustler, Hurrier, Rusher The University however, is nothing short of cooperative and helpful to the students involved. Multiple routes are presently being set for the students to be able to catch up with demands. The administration is actively accommodating their needs through allocating reading courses, offering off-sem subjects, allowing enrollment to full classes, and permitting simultaneous enrollment of advanced and prerequisite courses—all to help the students finish. “We’re really doing our very best [sic] for these students to catch up and graduate,” Dalagan guarantees. “I’m sure mugraduate gud na sila. Not in the new (curriculum), in the old curriculum.” *** As they say, there’s a light at the end of the tunnel. But going through what the “stragglers” did, a tunnel is an understatement. Picture a maze, a labyrinth formed by the stress and pressure collected around their necks—years worth of it. It takes more than a few calls of road rage to distract these experienced drivers. After all, we’re navigating through their territory now.C Additional source: http://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/4574/ https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/us/ *Name is changed per request of anonymity
Vol. 46 No. 1 August 2019
By Nia Enrille R. Rabanes
Ears to Lend We would know when to refer to someone else through an expert’s advice. Psychology Department Professor and licensed Guidance Counselor Janet Ibale noted that “the one being listened to unloads his concerns at the same time processes information (feelings, thoughts, and behaviors) that he is carrying with him.” She affirms that this is a healthy exchange among friends provided that it is within a healthy psychological period (30-45 minutes to an hour). The extent of sharing would affect the listener negatively “if the listener is involved in the issues of the sharer, brings the issues to sleep, does not know how to process himself, and has unresolved issues that is similar with the sharer.” For these reasons, she greatly recommends visiting the Guidance and Counseling Office (GCO) for people who have concerns. The GCO is part of the Student Services and Formation Units, which caters towards human
Holding Back There are general biases that come with visiting the GCO. Some students assume that those who go have something wrong with them. They’re also worried about confidentiality, or that they find sharing personal information to someone they are not acquainted with to be intimidating. If it weren’t for the requirement, some wouldn’t even have thought of going. GCO Director Charito B. Ferrer PhD clears these assumptions by saying, “this Office is open for any kind of students [sic] who would come here,” as well as assuring that the files of each student are secured. GCO promotes its services through orientations (per college) and collaborative efforts with the deans through seminars. Although it reflects positively in the evaluation of GCO’s services, as presented in records to the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU), Ferrer admits that it is a
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challenge to disseminate the word that the GCO is welcome for everyone. Unlike retreats and recollections, which are done by class, the GCO aims to accommodate the individual. Arms Wide Open Counseling is a highly essential program that can be availed by all the members of the XU community. Ibale states that when no one is around to listen to a pressing concern, it may affect the choices that a person needs to make. The impediment to the GCO’s vision of being able to serve the majority of the student population is yet to be remedied by the type of promotion it wishes to take. Ferrer expresses that while they have taken plenty of ways to address this issue— from conducting orientations and seminars to even going as far as utilizing Facebook—there is still much improvement to be incorporated. She recommends coordinating with the Central Student Government (CSG), describing it as the voice of the students, and recognizing it as a valuable asset to influence the student body. *** Overall, the appeal of the GCO is to assist in the promotion of its services. “Help us to promote counseling,” Ferrer advertises. They are also open to all types of feedback in order to manifest an environment that is ideal for their clients. The students and the GCO alike share the same responsibility to break the stigma against counseling. It is important to note that when you feel as if there is much to be done for the troubles you or your friends have, the GCO is always open.C
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Photo by Jivi Roy D. Rizaldo
growth and development. The programs offered in this office are the following: Counseling, Testing, Individual Inventory, Academic Probation/Follow-up, Placement Program, Enrichment Program, Peer Facilitators’ Training Program, Outreach Program, Students’ Internship Program, Faculty and Parent Consultation, and Research and Evaluation. Timely services like seminars and job testings are also provided. These programs are established for varying and specific needs. Freshmen are required to take the psychological test upon enrolment, graduating students are to take the exit interview, and the students on probation are to visit their respective college counselors.
Design Derrick Kean A. Auxtero Romero Mae H. Karla by by Design
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estie, bes, bro, bai, mumsh—these are some of the usual nicknames we give to the people we share a close relationship with, or in other words, our best friends. They come in all forms, from that Kpop-obsessed neighbor to that internet cafe buddy, or even that lowkey extremely intelligent classmate, these people are nothing short of amazing. They keep us grounded, support us on our crazy ventures, and slap us in the face when we do stupid things. As much as we enjoy experiencing the best times with them, we know all too well they dwell with difficult problems too. It’s great to be an earnest listener, but when do we know it’s not ours alone to handle?
Photo by Jinky M. Mejica
Design by Karla Mae H. Romero
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Vol. 46 No. 1 August 2019
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s we face AY 2019-2020, XU continues to develop facilities and other improvements which bring advantages to its students and provide excellent services anchored with the University’s goal of being men and women for others. Through these feature developments, it provides growth to XU constituents, not only for educational purposes but also for the holistic formation of students and the college organizations.
An Added System With an aim to promote excellence, the United Arts and Sciences Student Council (UNITASS) developed a legislative body which takes charge of approving their memorandums and resolutions. Dubbed the House of Senate, the entity is composed of the college’s co-curricular
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Campus of the Future The XU Board of Trustees, the governing body of the University, seeks to ensure the best interest of stakeholders in all types of management. Currently, the Board has managed to set plans for a new campus, which can cater almost twice the XU population. According to property developer Cebu Landmasters Incorporation’s (CLI) released statement, the future XU campus will cover 21 hectares of the 63-hectare Manresa Farm property located in uptown CDO. The future XU campus is set to accommodate several academic and technical courses in the fields of Agriculture, Arts and Sciences, Business and Management, Computer Studies, Education, Engineering, and Nursing. The said campus will be called “Masterson Campus” in honor of Fr. William F. Masterson S.J., whose vision in the 1960s pushed XU to purchase what is now Manresa Farm in CDO. Moreover, the College of Agriculture will be relocated to a separate complex to be established in XU’s 104-hectare property called El Gaucho in Bugo, CDO. El Gaucho is envisioned to become a self-sustaining agri-eco techno-park dovetail of field laboratories, research and training facilities, farming system models, and activity parks. El Gaucho will also continue its important mission of forming agriculturist leaders. To finance the construction of the new project, XU plans to sell 14 hectares of the 63-hectare Manresa Farm property to CLI. As stated by the developer, they plan to create a township project integrating complementary
commercial, residential, office and leisure uses to what they refer to as a campus town. Highlighted in the project are the proposed features such as open spaces paired with greeneries, sports facilities, interconnected courtyards, a main plaza and amphitheater, and a University Forum which will incorporate a museum, theater, and a gallery. However, the recent reports have led to some former Manresa Farm farmers and employees to protest on July 20 in front of XU Main Campus. They held the said rally to show their disapproval of the University’s proposal to sell the Manresa Farm land to CLI. The marchers were distributing fliers stated with “The Tree Must Live” articulating that the Manresa farm is a symbol of the Xavier Aggie Spirit and it must be preserved according to the sacrifices of the frontrunners of the Aggie Family. Furthermore, the said strikers also wanted to preserve the remaining trees in Manresa. The proposed project, which is subject to final approval from the Jesuit central leadership, is expected to change the landscape of both uptown and downtown CDO. With the goal of achieving a final collaborative master plan that considers the needs of significant stakeholders, consultations and discussions are ongoing. In connection with the recently concluded Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU) accreditation, XU also continues to carve its Ignatian values via community involvement. Among its social development engagements are the Xavier Ecoville where five hectares of XU property was granted to the 500-house resettlement village for Sendong survivors, and the Angat Buhay Village where XU provided agricultural livelihood programs and 70 houses for resettlement in Marawi for evacuees of the Marawi siege. *** These initiatives highlight the effort and commitment of both the students and the administration to upgrade their current systems. Making improvements to the facilities and student services of XU will definitely lead to excellence as the student needs and concerns are met via quality approaches. However, their true value will only be evident through the response of the constituents they serve.C
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Design by Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas
The Feeling of Belongingness XU is open to accommodate a variety of students. It caters to all coming from different cultures, social statuses, and religions that of which the University is open to accommodate. Now, anyone can experience its tagline of “Experience Excellence,” without looking at the students’ background as premises. Meanwhile, one of the new facilities which the University is working on an ablution area for Muslim students where they can practice the traditional ritual involving physical cleanliness and mental preparation before prayer. Siraj President Ali Mindalano expresses his gratitude to University President Fr. Roberto C. Yap S.J. and to the administration for approving the project. “Itong ablution area is matagal na naming gustong ipa approve sa OSA and sa mga heads natin […] even though we’re [sic] belong to the minority in this University, nabibigyan kami ng parang equal treatment and we’re happy that they are also giving us importance.” In addition, Mindalano also tried to express his concern for female Muslim students by raising this matter to the administration. “Gusto lang namin na maging comfortable ang mga babae, kasi minsan may mga ‘studyanteng Muslims na nahihiya ng mag CR.” Mindalano also stresses that with almost 100 students practicing Islam, they continue to create bonds throughout XU. “Xavier University will never reach where it is right now without unity,” says Mindalano. The ablution area will be located in the StC 3rd floor, added on to both the male and female comfort rooms.
organization presidents which they refer to as senators. The body is convened by the executive vice president of the council known as chancellor. Through this House of Senate, the council’s projects and other proposed activities will need to follow due process for them to be approved and implemented. However, UNITASS President Rhandy Ong clarifies that every project will run smoothly depending on how well-structured it is and how it is presented to the different branches of the House of Senate. “It will never take time for a project to be implemented if the executive branch works it [sic] early,” Ong reiterates. Ong also explains that the other college councils and co-curricular organizations also have their own similar system. The Teachers’ Guild (TG) of the School of Education has a parallel system similar to that of the House of Senate’s.
By Nia Enrille R. Rabanes with reports from Ellai Kristopher P. Badelles
Design by Melvin P. Villacote
Photo by Jivi Roy D. Rizaldo
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n this day and age, our decision-making is mostly based on whatever is most convenient. We utilize PowerPoint presentations to study, call for food deliveries, and shop through our phones. We want easy, we want now. That is why grabbing any piece of convenientlypackaged food item or drink is a no-brainer for whenever we feel the need to fill ourselves. With this thinking, we have actually reduced ourselves to be dependent on these products. Blame it on marketing if you will, but as consumers, we should own responsibility for the effects we have on the Earth. There is an urgency to take action. On that thought, XU has taken initiative with the prohibition of entry, use, and sale of single-use plastic water bottles in the University. What’s Up, Paper Cup? The high rate of plastic pollution is definitely what’s up. According to Earthlawcenter.org, “plastic pollution is emerging as a top threat to ocean ecosystems” and we see that—not only in the devastating Twitter videos on turtles suffering because of plastic straws, but also in our local rivers which occasionally feature grocery bags floating among colorful varieties of its kind. McKeough Marine Center Director and Steering Committee Chair of the single-use plastic water bottle ban Fr. Mars Tan, S.J. states that the best ways to help the environment are to “refuse and reduce, and eventually eliminate the use of singleuse plastics.” We’re in! The Philippines is in! As the 138th state to agree to the worldwide call to end plastic pollution on April 22, 2017, our country has made the initial
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effort to spark action for reform. On Jan 1, City Ordinance No. 13378-2018 or the Integrated Ecobiological Solid Waste Management Ordinance planted a solid foundation for minimizing plastic use in CDO, heavily promoting consumers to use eco-bags in supermarkets and other retail stores. With Memorandum #U1920-008 titled Policies and Guidelines on the Prohibition of Entry, Use, and Sale of Single-Use Plastic Water Bottles in All Campuses and Activities of XU, the University is giving the members of its community no excuse to overlook the involvement for change. The Game Plan The single-use plastic water bottle ban started its transition period in August with the regulation that anyone who wishes to enter the campus is to dispose of their plastic bottles in the bins stationed at the entrance. It is then encouraged that students, faculty, and staff alike are to bring their own reusable water bottles. Water dispensers are made available in the Magis canteen to cater to the need for refilling and enforce the habit of using reusable bottles. The Central Student Government (CSG) is actively promoting the same on social media. In September, the ban will be implemented as complete and final. In order for the actualization of the ban, preparatory activities were conducted in June and July. A special committee from the Social Development Cluster was established to guide consultations, presenting the proposed advocacy and enhancing it through solicited ideas. The first consultation was with the XU Community Multi-Purpose Cooperative (XUCMPC) and concessionaires. The second involved the faculty and non-teaching staff clubs,
Parent-Teachers’ Association (PTA), the Alumni Association, and the administration of the Basic Education Cluster. The third involved the College Deans, representatives from the faculty, nonteaching staff clubs, PTA, Alumni Association, Office of Students Affairs (OSA), Central Student Government (CSG) and college councils, council moderators, Physical Plant Office (PPO), Security Safety and Information Office, and service agencies such as Global Pro and Security Agency. Representatives from the XU community showed their support on banning single-use plastic water bottles, leading to the submission of the guidelines on the ban. *** University President Fr. Roberto C. Yap S.J. noted in the memorandum that “refraining from using single-use plastic water bottles may appear as a tiny act in the face of massive environmental problems. But it is good to heed the words of Pope Francis in Laudato Si’, ‘There is a nobility in the duty to care for creation through little daily actions, and it is wonderful how education can bring about real changes in lifestyle’.” It is true that with the severity of the current plastic pollution, XU’s initiative may seem small. But being able to alleviate the cause in our own ways as a community is enough progress to kickstart bigger and more impactful programs to further aid the environment. Hopefully, XU doesn’t end here. Every step is paramount for change. If this ban is only the first step, how many more will we take?C Additional source: http://earthlawcenter.org/
Vol. 46 No. 1 August 2019
By Amanda Marie B. Hora with reports from Ellai Kristopher P. Badelles
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Spraying the Solutions If there’s any direct office rooted in the responsibility of monitoring the sanitation of the University’s comfort rooms, it’s the Physical Plant Office (PPO). Pollution Control Officer (PCO) of the PPO Joel Fuentevilla Francisco asserts that there are already existing actions being done by their office in addressing the problem. “Of course ang mandate sa PPO is to maintain the cleanliness, hygienic [sic], and sanitize [sic] ang mga facilities, not only inside the building but also outside,” he articulates. “The PPO is trying their best to outsource their services.” He even highlights how XU stands out from other schools when talking about sanitation, saying that the University has three janitors per building. However, the PPO expresses the need for responsibility among students regarding the University’s properties. “Ang mahitabo kay days after or weeks after, buak ang kabo, apil ang trash
bin, usahay walay cover, ug ang hand soap kay ihi,” he discloses. Flushing Out the Bad Impression The proposed resolution in bringing back the sanitation of comfort rooms must be taken just as seriously as the inconvenience brought by the concerns echoing inside the XU community. Before we try to stand out from the rest, it is necessary to zoom in on every little detail that seeks improvement. A visitor often gives the first impression of a house’s sanitation by how clean the comfort room is. Similarly, an aspect that marks the impression of people towards XU is its capability to maintain proper sanitation. *** As XU traverses the path towards becoming a leading ASEAN University by 2033, great responsibilities come along. It is undeniable that proper hygiene and sanitation are some of the main criteria that build up a University’s image. Nevertheless, these responsibilities are not merely limited to the offices linked to the concern. “XU is home,’’ is a statement which has become a mantra for XU students over the years. This means that being a part of the XU community is like sharing our common home. We are all stewards of the University and every little action that manifests a sense of responsibility counts. We are labeled as individuals who take initiatives to create solutions. We must not just come to sit and stink, rather we must come to sit and think.C
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Photo by Catherine Marie C. Naldoza
Leakage of Concerns Central Student Government (CSG) President Audrey Theresse Yu explains the multiple concerns from students regarding the sanitation of comfort rooms in different buildings on campus. “In 2016, nagsurvey sa services sa school and natarget didto ang facilities for comfort rooms,” Yu expresses. “Before, ga provide sila ug liquid soap bottles in every comfort rooms [sic]. And then there was an issue a few years ago na ang kani daw’ng liquid soaps kay ginasudlan daw og urine,” she continues. Yu also recalls the actions taken by the administration after the mentioned incident happened. “There was a time when they took out the liquid soaps. [Na’y] mga CRs na wala na nila gipangbutngan og liquid soaps,” she notes. Yu also adds that the students previously passed a resolution to the administration to put back liquid
soaps in each comfort room. The resolution was then approved and liquid soaps were provided in chosen buildings. Unfortunately, after a few months, the liquid soaps were discontinued. Presently, Yu mentions the partial actions taken by the CSG in response to this concern. “Isa sya sa agenda karon for our Department of Student Services and Campus Development because we’re pushing to add sanitary vending machines in maybe two or three comfort rooms as our pilot project,” Yu stresses. “We already made actions [...] na ipabalik gyud to ang liquid soaps, tapos naa gyuy sustainability for it,” she concludes.
Design by Jayson Elvie G. Ty
ou find yourself stuck between trying to run as fast as you can or taking it slow, one step at a time, in XU’s corridors before reaching the comfort room. You can feel yourself sweating profusely as you try to reach that finish line. Now, imagine the comfort of successfully releasing that bothersome thing in your stomach. It’s all good until you start to realize something: you forgot to bring your own toiletries. You start to look around, and the feeling of disgust starts creeping under your skin. You search for soap, for tissue, but you can’t find them. That is the moment you realize the irony of calling it the comfort room when it gives you nothing but.
By Nia Enrille R. Rabanes
Design by Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas
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t takes a lot for some of us to be courageous about the things we believe in; to be able to stand amidst adversities and have the ability to make change. CDO Mayor Oscar “Oca” Seriña Moreno has been doing just about that since 2013. The name is not new to Kagay-anons. When you say Mayor Moreno, you might think “oh, ang mayor nga nagpaduso sa pagtukod sa Laguindingan Airport,” or “ang mayor nga nagpapintal sa Carmen Bridge ug orange.” And if you’re updated with the news, you may associate the name with a string of other projects he’s been involved in recently. Other than these simple facts, what other things lie beneath the renowned name? Building from the Past Today Now in his third and final term as mayor, Moreno continues to push for the eight-point agenda he instigated since taking the seat in 2013, namely: Peace and Order and Poverty Alleviation; Resettlement Revenue Generation; Infrastructure and Investments; Metropolization; Environment and Education; Hospital and Health Services; Agricultural Productivity; and Tourism, Traffic, and Teamwork (PRIMEHAT). In the course of six years in the position, the performance in this agenda is recognized in his Term Report 20162019 for which he believes has gained some headway in CDO. Presently, emphasis is given on three points— additional flood control projects, attention to the Water District, and improved resettlement 18
programs. The first is aimed to ensure the safety of people, especially in flood-prone areas. Following the completion of the Flood Risk Mitigation program along the Cagayan River on the year 2022 or 2023, there is a need to address the concerns of other rivers from Alae in Bugo all the way to Iponan in the West. With plans in store for metropolization, the Water District is currently unequipped for such developments. Funding and support are vital in this pursuit for it can stymie the growth of the city when disregarded. The current number of Informal Settler Families (ISF) increases the necessity to produce refined models of resettlement. Improvements in the government’s expertise in the matter are to be anticipated. Into the Future Moreno’s ideal goal is to alleviate CDO to greater heights. According to him, the ambition is to become “a prime city of the south” by maximizing its strategic advantages: its location, it being an education hub, a logistics hub, a travel hub, and center of hospital care and convergence. This can be attained by improving the services the city provides. Metropolization is the highlight of all these endeavors. The mayor envisions CDO as a metropolis, which would also comprise of Tagoloan, Villanueva, Jasaan, Claveria, and Balingasag to the east, and Opol, El Salvador, Alubijid, Laguindingan, and Gitagum to the west. Down-south municipalities of Bukidnon from
Malitbog to Manolo Fortich, Libona, Baungon, Talakag, and even Sumilao, will be included in this vision. The aspired concept is not to become a unified body, but a coordinated cluster of Local Government Units (LGUs). *** Moreno’s resolve for the projects he is pushing for sparks hope for a hometown we would desire and look forward to. On the topic of how involved he wishes the Kagay-anon’s to be, he articulates, “of course, this is your city— especially the young. The more involved you are, the better it is for the government.” Taking the time to be updated with the plans of the government allows room for the youth to come to a resolution, and with the voice that it currently holds, be able to express support or points for consideration. Ideally, the goal is the same, and the effort from both the government and youth may just be the key ingredient needed for the city we all aspire to live in. He invites citizens to be good, to perceive education in a way that it may shape people to become “better managers than us (current government leaders).” With a keen and hopeful eye for change, the Kagay-anons willing to cooperate can anticipate and witness how Moreno fulfills the legacy he wants to leave, “a Cagayan de Oro that the next generation will be happy to inherit.”C
Vol. 46 No. 1 August 2019
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Let’s not forget, a few actually do want to graduate under the old curriculum. They’re just testing your problem-solving skills first. Gosh, I thought you would’ve caught on by now. That girl with the killer glares and equally glaring Fs in the Math class she’s already taken thrice—she actually wins MasterChef CDO every year. The dude you reprimanded a week ago for getting all those tattoos, he’s gonna be a doctor one day. We just want to see how good you are at strategically writing up our study loads. But I should tell you, that last dropout case was intentional. I was told they’d go sort out a few of their own personal issues before coming back. At the end of the day, personally, I’d gladly take the new curriculum head on with none of my previous courses credited. Sure, graduating with them would be nice. Then I’d get to proceed to the so-called “real” world where I can finally be a proper adult, fly half-way across the Earth to a new country, and receive my 100th certificate of recognition. Obviously, they’ll all say that I’m the best and thank me for my “exemplary service and exceptional commitment in rendering her (my) talent, skill, & potential in the field of Campus Journalism.” But if I graduate now, I won’t be able to write for TheCruchever anymore. I won’t let you all starve to death waiting for the next release of XU’s juicy secrets! I can postpone becoming Buzzfeed CDO Branch’s next big Digital Publicist Extraordinaire. I have the rest of my life ahead of me—there’s no reason to rush. So, if you’re worried about me, don’t be. I intend to make full use of the incoming four (or more) years. You’ll see a statue of me one day, replicating that one time I offered my only pen to a fellow straggler during our final Chemistry exam. He’ll be forever indebted to me and the whole University will know me as the lone martyr who sacrificed herself for the greater good. I guess that’s it. Those are all my reasons to take the new curriculum head-on. Come and join me! Don’t you smell that? It smells like the comforting scent of a fresh start. #NewCurriculumNewMe.C
Illustration by Jayson Elvie G. Ty
know what you’re thinking. Gosh have you seen that bald gurl? Wasn’t she supposed to graduate, like, six years ago? Well, dear reader, you’re right. But—and this is the important part—I’ve actually purposefully delayed my own graduation. Woah woah woah, y’all should hear me out before you start morphing your faces into those awfully disgusting looks. It’s about time you stop painting us stragglers in such a horrible light. We don’t deserve this maltreatment! First of all, we practically keep this institution running. Just the other day I added up every single Peso I ever paid for every semester and summer I spent here. That’s right—I’m basically here all year-round. Perfect attendance. Oh, my mom’s going to be so proud of me when I go up on stage and receive my Loyaltea Award! But as I was saying, I added everything up and it came to a whopping, drrrrrrumroll please, Php 700,000! *sigh* I could’ve had an early retirement with all that money. So instead of desperately trying to get rid of us, consider supporting our stay just a bit longer. My dear students, administrators, and strangers, I present my incredibly foolproof case: For starters, good call threatening to discontinue the more irrelevant subjects next semester! It’s not like we’ve literally only previously enrolled in them three to five times in hopes of finally getting it right. Yeah, I still don’t know how to find x, but it’s about time I moved on. No more “second” chances, I gotchu fam. You know what we should get more of, though? Electives. Which is also known as the freedom to choose whatever we want to study. It’s been stripped from us once when we enrolled in our majors, don’t take it away from us again. Go ahead and make every minor an elective! Cut us some slack, then at least some of us would be motivated to attend class. Also, imagine all the hassle there would be if I took both the super uninteresting subjects AND their prerequisites at the same time! That’s twice the work for my already-halved attention span. Ugh, so exhausting. And even after the hassle, you’ll only be plainly okay at multiple things. No thanks! I’d rather study one thing at a time and be exceptional at it.
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JAY NINO
JM
PAO
Kung naa kay mga tinaguan na joke, komik, o hirit line dira, oras na nimo para mubida amigo/amiga! kay niana ang inyung ginahulat-hulat mga higalang atenista! Ug kung ikaw ang swerte na mapilian, imong gisend kay buhatan namo ug komik! ug ikaw kay makadawat ug gagmay nga pahalipay! Isend lang sa thecrupubfreehand@gmail.com o isulat sa isa ka SHORT BOND PAPER kauban sa imuhang kompleto na pangalan ug kurso ug ihatag sa StC 302, TheCrusader Publication office. Amping ta everyday mga higala. igit
To join: Tintininingg!! Gusto ba ninyo ug mga pahalipay, pwesss naa ra mga ka-igan na Atenean, ang Kurisword. Photocopy this Kurisearch with your answers and submit your entry to TheCrusader Publication office at StC 302 with your fullname, year, course and contact number. Lucky participants will receive limited edition collectables. Unsa pa inyuhang ginahulat mga ka-igan andami na inyuhang kaugalingun like now na jud ug makadaog ug mga papremyo. Good Luck!
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Vol. 46 No. 1 August 2019
KURISCOPE ni ED
Ania nasad ang mahiwagang bolang krystal ni Madame Edshera, ug mao na ni ang panahon na kailangan na nimog tambag mga ka-mags. Timan-i hindi natin hawak ang kapalaran kundi tayo ang gumagawa nito. Charrroottt lang, unta ma-enjoy ninyo ang inyuhang kapalaran karun kapanahunan mga ka-mags. Aquarius (Ka Smooth ba dzong/dzaii) Yuckiieee, smooth talker ug dancer, sayang di lang gyud ka smooth singer. Undang na ug kanta inig maglaba ka ug maligo, basin malabayan ka ug kabo. Lucky day: Pagmadawat ka sa Idol Philippines Aries (Ring my bell, Ring my bell) Perpek vah! Late enrollee, late comer ug late bloomer. Late maker, late sleeper, late drinker ug water. Late sab ka mutubo kay late ka permi. Lucky day: later next next year Cancer (Hindi ka muna papasok sa iskol) Aspiring beadle kaayo, inig sobra ug fifteen minutes, tindog diretso. Kalma lang ta dzai ha, ikaw gane biyaan ug di hulatan, diba ka malugda? Lucky day: mga opisyal na iskol holiday Capricorn (Loyalty Awardee) Maypa sa iskol ug kurso nimo loyal ka, pero kay Mr/Ms Right kay dili lage bah? Mao nang single ka kay kada nay mulabay, lingi dayun ah. Lucky day: Everyday igit
Gemini (The budots gangster) Inig tatak ng alas dose sa gabii, anaa sa baryo ninyo naay disco, ang lalaki ug babae nga para sa imo. Pagbantay lang gyud ug pangutan-a, ug asa ni siya nagpuyong dihang dapita. Lucky day: Birthday nimo yor!
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Leo (Highlighter) Char tsada tahay kag agi dzai? With all the curves and lettering, and arrow arrow ug decoration tahay? Colorful kayog highlights, kasing colorful ng A to, (char) A- sa imong school life. Lucky day: the day before mahurot ang ink sa imong ballpen Libra (ML Rapper) Aguyy! pag nasa balay tabian ka, pag na sa iskol tabian ka, pag ga-ML tabian ka, imo rank and playing style sa mobile legends, tabi-tabi lang pud siya. Lucky day: season end sa ML Pisces (K-popper) Let’s kill this love, rowww, graveh ka maayo nga listener, well that is if ang ka-istorya pud kay k-popper. Sobra ka daghan ug Oppa, pareha unta kadaghan imo good scores and life. Lucky day: pag mu-comeback na ang 2ne1
IGIT
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Taurus (Sana Oil Enthusiast) Sana oyll kasing studious mo. Sana oyll kasing rich at dami ng libro mo. Sana oyll kaya mubilar like you. Sana oyll dili haggard ug face pareha nimo. Lucky day: tungang gabii sa Lunes mamsh. Virgo (Edetor) Mads! Imo bidyus sa projects, nicely edited. Imo written assignments, well critiqued. Hopefully imo face kay dili unta sad edited. Lucky day: Opszxt dili namo ww Sagittarius (DL Master) Paburger buss!,sigeg agik-ik ug katawa, bisan tungang gabii na ug sad scene ang gitan-aw sa iyang k-drama. Ambot giuansa ni niya nga dean’s lister gyapun siya. Lucky day: Major Exams Scorpio (Malas ‘Di malason) Better luck next time gurl! Malas na gane sa assignments na ga-wwerror kada render og paprint sa printahan, malas pa gyud sa lablyf na hahayst miskan crush di ka lingian. Lucky day: Ayaw na’g asa
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