The Crusader AY Starter 2021

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Publishers Subscribing Students of Xavier University Editorial Board Melvin P. Villacote Editor in Chief Reina Margaret Gwynette T. Villamor Associate Editor* Jean Mika M. Aporillo Design Editor* Rafhael L. Jabongga Managing Editor Danica Ela P. Armendarez News Editor* Claire Ivy T. Vanguardia Campus Features Editor* Alyssa Chantal P. Moreno Local Features Editor* Levina Eunice O. Palarca National Features Editor* James Patrick B. Pabonita Photography Editor* Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas Graphic Design & Layout Editor* Jayson Elvie G. Ty Freehand Editor* Karl Mykell M. Tabbay Video Productions Director Managers Edshera Mae R. Abella Human Resource Manager Kevin Matthew N. Pacana Office Manager Aira May L. Plaga Circulations Manager Jivi Roy D. Rizaldo Online Accounts Manager Paula Elaine D. Francisco Senior Research Manager Catherine C. Naldoza Senior Computer Systems Manager Reyjean Marie S. Bacud Senior Finance Manager Sumayyah G. Caris Internal Auditor Staff Writers Racquel Vaneza Kate B. Agustin (Trainee) Regina Noelle C. Arquiza (Trainee) Fritz F. Bustamante (Trainee) Andre’ Socorro F. Doria (Trainee) Rustom Louiegie P. Duran, Jr. (Trainee) Abdel Rafi M. Lim Irone Marie L. Jabagat (Trainee) Hanz Lloyd A. Paderon (Trainee) Hyacinth L. Premacio (Trainee) Nia Enrille R. Rabanes Staff Artists Derrick Kean A. Auxtero John Ian G. Bradshaw Kyla Mae L. Duliano (Trainee) Zenju P. Espinosa (Trainee) Kiarra Dlahmane P. Lingating (Trainee) Shaun Arthur O. Pao (Trainee) Kenneth Jhon D. Sanchez Staff Broadcasters Angelyne I. Bonani (Trainee) Christian A. La Victoria (Trainee) Kenneth Wallace G. Melendez (Trainee) Aliyah Francine G. Salan (Trainee) Andrea Marie Tan (Trainee) Kyla Gabrielle P. Tuto (Trainee) Moderator Mr. Raymond A. Ybañez For contributions, please address your articles and/or comments to TheCrusader Publication Office, Rm. 302, Student Training Center (STC) Bldg, Xavier University 9000, Cagayan de Oro City

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Editorial Columns Plight of the Pioneers XU’s Campus of the Future: A Reimagined Utopia Aggieventure: A Blazing Saddle Getting Wasted in a Double Crisis The Illusion of Normalcy Table for Two: Mixing Family and Politics The Vigilant Citizen’s Guide to Political Comments Maria Ressa: Keep Doing the Story Memories of a Dictatorship Smaller and Smaller Circles: Sightings of a Bud Rot Carlo Paalam and the Game of Life Cora Contrabida: Unfriended Comics Hohongihong

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he pioneering batch had quite the unprecedented journey—the K to 12 curriculum and the sudden shift to online learning midway in college. With graduation nearing, the Class of 2022 will now face an even more puzzling road ahead: will the journey that they have faced equip them with the right skills to survive the real world? Was it all worth it?C Words by Fritz F. Bustamante Illustration by Melvin P. Villacote

Circulation 1,500 copies

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The official student publication of Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan Vol. 48 No. 1 November 2021 Email your comments & suggestions to thecrusaderpub@gmail.com

Read the full online version of this issue at bit.ly/AYStarter2021 or at www.thecrusaderpublication.ph

EDITORIAL

Get off your echo chambers An important thing to remember is that the real fight is not on social media—it is on the grounds and with the masses.

here is something so empowering when your opinion is shared by the masses. The pats on the back, the heart reactions, and the retweets feed one’s ego and make them more confident to speak out and be heard. This generated momentum grows when one connects with individuals whose information or opinions reflect and reinforce one’s own, creating an echo chamber. As various personalities filed their Certificate of Candidacy for the upcoming 2022 elections, campaign season rears its ugly head.

With this, people have started airing out their thoughts, opinions, sentiments, and testimonies in support of certain candidates in social media—a platform prone to facilitating echo chambers of one’s own making.

An echo chamber refers to situations in which ideas are reinforced by communication and repetition inside a closed system. They are misleading in a way that they distort one’s perspective. Because one is surrounded by similar ideas, beliefs, and advocacies, they are more likely to blindly reinforce these narratives rather than take the time to consider opposing viewpoints. In campaigning for a certain candidate, for example, one may be empowered seeing the numerous posts promoting that candidate, leading them to believe they are contributing to a winning movement. However, one should take into account that social media follows a user’s algorithm, thus, what one sees on the timeline is tailored-fit only to their likes and preferences. Echo chambers then, although echoes one’s opinions, limit a person from seeing the bigger picture. This begs the question: How do we transcend the walls of our echo chambers?

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The ‘simple’ answer would be to step out of our comfort zones and engage in meaningful discourse with people harboring opposing ideas, beliefs, and advocacies. Yet, given that disparity breeds conflict, it is difficult to keep one’s cool when discussing and defending ideas they are passionate about—especially if said ideas are supported by facts.

Moreover, engaging in meaningful discourse is almost hopeless when one is talking to trolls, fanatics, and those who openly feed on misinformation and fake news. This leads many to ignore the opposition and bask in the comforting affirmations and reinforcement of their echo chambers. After all, this guarantees peace and quiet, as well as assures a person that they are surrounded with like-minded individuals.

However, this is counterproductive because it does nothing to promote one’s ideas, beliefs, and advocacies to the masses. In terms of elections, which is a mechanism reliant on numbers, succumbing to echo chambers discounts the need to convince more people to see things from one’s point of view. Yes, one can be empowered by all the likes and shares that feed into their narratives, but they remain deluded towards the situation of the masses. Thus, there is still a need to tell one’s story, understand both ends of the discussion, and uphold respect and openmindedness.

An important thing to remember is that the real fight is not on social media—it is on the grounds and with the masses. With this, one who wants to fight for change cannot afford to stay inside their chambers and just wave through a window. They must step out, engage, and build strength in numbers.C

Illustration by Shaun Arthur O. Pao 1

OPINION

A portrait of a woman

By Claire Ivy T. Vanguardia t is an undeniable fact that even today, rampant misogynistic notions and remarks against women leaders still find its way into headlines.

And as the 2022 National Elections approaches, more dialogues on sexism, belittling, and undermining of women are being spilled.

The challenges and issues that women face in politics have been nothing but a maelstrom of indecency and vulgarity. “She’s too emotional,” “she can’t lead because she’s weak,” and “she’s too soft for a leadership role” are words we often hear used to criticize and question the legitimacy of women running for electoral positions.

It is a sad truth. Repeatedly, females have donned the portrait of a docile and a vulnerable human being. These conventions are what shackles women into making a name for themselves in the political arena. Due to the deeply rooted and reinforced gender stereotypes, people have been ingrained with the belief that women are emotionally driven, delicate, and incapable— hence, they are deemed unfit for roles in politics.

Despite having outstanding track records that would have made them more suitable than other

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candidates, women are still condemned for their gender. Not only are they judged for their traits— they are also attacked for their appearance.

Gender should not be the deciding factor to unravel a person’s suitability to run for public office. In a male-dominated world of politics, women leaders are as equally capable, proficient, and formidable as men. The deep-rooted sexism that elicits unwanted misogyny needs to be stopped—people need to stop living in fear of strong women running for a seat in politics.

The relentless and perpetuated misogynistic utterances that are directed against women in politics are a grave issue. It is about time that we change this way of thinking. Women are so much more than these gender stereotypes. By breaking the irons of patriarchy, women in politics have started to paint themselves as unyielding and admirable.C

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Gender should not be the deciding factor to unravel a person’s suitability to run for public office.

You can’t just pray it away

By Danica Ela P. Armendarez hat’s just God’s way of testing you.”

Perhaps this is one of the most heartbreaking things a mentally disabled person can hear from someone with a strong religious belief. The strong condemnation surrounding mental health in Filipino culture is manifested in words like “buang” or “kulang-kulang”—such are used as hurtful insults about people living with mental health conditions. Moreover, it cannot be denied how, most of the time, Filipinos associate someone’s mental illness to their lack of faith.

In our country, getting help for a mental health condition is a sign of weakness and a personal flaw, and not a legitimate clinical condition. This sad reality leads a lot of people to turn a blind eye to proper treatment, fearing the discrimination more rather than getting proper medical assistance.

Having a mental condition is not shameful nor should it be considered a curse to “pray away”.

This mental health stigma pushes present-day psychologically challenged Filipinos to condone most people’s ‘advice’ which is, “Pray about it.

Give it to God.” But you wouldn’t tell someone

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diagnosed with COVID-19, cancer, or heart problems to just pray about it or give it to God, would you? You’d hopefully say: “You need to see a doctor.” But when it comes to mental health, there is very little compassion.

Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing bad about praying for recovery from a mental health condition, but we still have to be proactive. We can’t just “pray away” a mental health condition, just like how we can’t just ground someone’s recovery to our beliefs. Science shines a light on God’s creation and the resources we have been provided. So the next time someone calls you out for your mental illness as “God’s way of testing you,” please shake your head at their ignorance and walk away. Don’t sacrifice your recovery and tolerate their ignorance. You know better, and your faith is stronger than that.C

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We can’t just pray away a mental health condition, just like how we can’t just ground someone’s recovery to our beliefs.

Vol. 48 No. 1 November 2021

OPINION

Red lips conquer the world

By Alyssa Chantal P. Moreno irror, mirror on the wall, who is the fairest of them all? At one point in our lives, we have always dreamt of being princesses. From Snow White in 1937 to Moana in 2016, princess culture has emphasized the asset of beauty in a way that showcases perfection. In the same way, society has built on this notion of unrealistic standards of beauty that has become toxic for our self-esteem.

Women are expected to have tiny waists, flawless skin, narrow hips, and hairless bodies— all while men must train to have that ‘Spartan’ physique. Not to mention, this should all be natural and without altercation. We look into the mirror, pinpoint our imperfections, and hate what we see from head to toe. Consequently, makeup had been invented as a tool to hide those imperfections and to empower them in their own skin.

The splash of pigmented hues boosts that cherry-on-top feeling of confidence. May it be a red lipstick or a winged eyeliner, makeup has become a cultural weapon and a symbol of power and strength. However, once again, society has clouded its judgment. Well, the pick-me girls and

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To fear or to fail

By Levina Eunice O. Palarca t least once in our school life, we probably had encountered that one terror teacher with their infamous line, “Gapangbagsak ra ba gyud ko.” They loomed over us with their authoritarian aura to get their point across. After we pass their subject, we breathe deep sighs of relief knowing we had survived the hunting—but at what cost?

Instilling fear in order to “motivate” students to do well in school harms more than it intends to motivate. Learning is made intentionally difficult for students; they demand the most while forgetting that students come from different backgrounds with different learning styles and talents. Yet, the terror teacher continues to rant, “If so-and-so can do this, why can’t you?”

Among the purposely difficult exams, the tall piles of homework paired with strict deadlines, and the bane of high expectations from our parents and teachers is our mental, emotional, and even physical health at stake. Not only does terror education utilize fear but also neglect a crucial part of our learning experience—our mental

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boys have a lot to say on this matter—“Ew, I could never wear makeup” or “You look better without makeup.” Needless to say, nobody asked for their opinions. It may seem like a compliment but it is just a cleverly worded insult. Makeup, then, instead of an instrument to enhance beauty, has been perceived as “too much”. This has ultimately neglected its very purpose, and people are associating it as a sign of insecurity.

Why is it that people love to criticize what makes others happy? If a full face of makeup is what makes them feel comfortable, then great.

If someone chooses to go all-natural, then that is alright too. Though the use of cosmetics would depend on one’s preference, this does not suffice to judge one’s choice. As Lady Gaga said, “Live your eyeliner, breathe your lipstick.”

So, who is the fairest of them all? It is all of us—as we are our own versions of beautiful.C

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Though the use of cosmetics would depend on one’s preference, this does not suffice to judge one’s choice.

health. But it’s fine! Students’ mental health have been checked off their holistic education checklists through mental health webinars. We can’t help but adhere to our teacher’s demands because for most of us, grades do matter for securing a bright future. If we cannot comply, we are shamed and shunned, if not punished, for our “incompetence”.

Education run by fear is counterproductive; the process totally misses the intention. The fault of this mad educational standard is that students are made to think they are not enough when it is supposed to help them realize their potential.

If there is anything gained by students, it is the thought that learning isn’t fun and the crippling thought that they are unworthy compared to their smarter counterparts. For some, it is even at the cost of their mental well-being. Education should not be exclusive. Education should not be this difficult and draining.C

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Education run by fear is counterproductive; the process totally misses the intention.

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Features

Read the full online version of this issue at bit.ly/AYStarter2021 or at www.thecrusaderpublication.ph

COVER STORY

Plight of the Pioneers

By Racquel Vaneza Kate B. Agustin & Alyssa Chantal P. Moreno s we take two steps back in our face-to-face learning experiences, we remember the hustle and bustle of life, the smell of pungent coffee, the students walking along the hallways, and the loud ding-a-lings of the school bell. Momentarily, we face a window of a world filled with what could have been—the robbed opportunities of yesterday. The experiences that have been strained by today’s global crisis lead us to revisit what XU has made for almost two years now. This begs the question: how has the University taken action in producing competent students amidst the new mode of learning, most especially in the field of health and related sciences, computer studies, and engineering?

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Vol. 48 No. 1 November 2021

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To be the first ones to face unknown horizons, only to have hope and optimism as our support was not an easy thing to do.”

Agustin Miguel Bote XU Association of College of Engineering Students (XU-ACES) President

The 2018 online guinea pigs The pioneering batch are the first ‘guinea pigs’ to adjust to both the K to 12 curriculum and the online learning setup. For Association of the College of Engineering Students (ACES) President Agustin Miguel Bote, Batch 2018 is a resilient one.

“It made me proud to realize that we are a resilient batch. To be the first ones to face unknown horizons, only to have hope and optimism as our support was not an easy thing to do,” he mentions.

However, Council of Nursing Students (CONUS) President Jean Bersola expressed how this batch felt constantly “experimented on.”

Aside from adjusting to a new curriculum, they were robbed of their last few years of college. They started freshman year on campus, but due to the circumstances, they are now forced to face each other on screens, separated by distance. Computer Studies Student Council (CSSC) Secretary Hanniel Grace Estareja commented, “With the pandemic happening, it made me miss on a lot of experiences that my seniors used to share.”

After years of hard work and dedication, they now face the possibility of a virtual graduation ceremony. “I believe that we deserve an opportunity for an actual face-to-face graduation, with certain considerations, to conclude the years of sudden change and celebrate this once in a lifetime event with people we shared the same journey with,” Bersola asserts.

Aside from learning adjustments and virtual graduations, these students’ on-the-job trainings (OJT) are also on the line. With the lack of handsCrusader

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Aside from adjusting to a new curriculum, they were robbed of their last few years of college. They started freshman year on campus, but due to the circumstances, they are now forced to face each other on screens, separated by distance.

on experience, online internship and virtual duties have become worrisome to the students who believe that it has hardly shaped their career development. An anonymous graduate from the Class of 2020 affirmed, “I felt sad because graduating ko ato nga time and then nikalit ra ug online class. I was supposed to take my on-the-jobtraining pa jud ato and excited kaayo ko kay actual (face-to-face) jud unta.” He adds that students need to be exposed in their field of profession.

“There are also things nga kailangan or dapat jud gihapon nimo ma-learn sa actual (face-to-face), not just online,” he elaborates.

Additionally, although learning materials, such as books and videos, are provided, these have not been sufficient in leading students to independence. Bersola shares how important it is for future healthcare professionals to be exposed to on-site duties—with safety and consent as the priority. “One can grasp full knowledge of a certain topic but still fail to apply the correct procedure if not trained through hands-on learning. If we are unable to simply familiarize a procedure, how are we supposed to master it?” Bersola asserts.

Aside from health-related courses, engineering and information technology courses have been struggling with the changes as well.

Estajera described her online internship similarly as attending synchronous classes. “It is also difficult to build connections with the members of the company. There are a lot of things that one can learn through experience and with the online setting, students’ exposure to the real world is Page Design by Melvin P. Villacote Photo by Zenju P. Espinosa

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limited,” she adds. Bote affirms this by saying how difficult it was to absorb the work environment given the limits of a screen. “I had to adjust to the company’s culture, and I was consistently trying to learn new things that I did not meet yet as a college student,” he shares.

COVID-19 and the irons in fire The occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic instituted the blowup of the insufficiency of handson experiences that have rattled capabilities. Rex Hallazgo (BSN 3) asserts, “It is far better when my degree [BS Nursing] is done through face-to-face learning than online. In face-to-face learning, we feel empowered for we are honed and practiced with important clinical skills.” Additionally, Pete Sayson (BS CE 4) discloses, “There were some challenges that came up in this all-new online setup; name it: internet connection and gadget availability became a hindrance for my online learning.” Regardless of the number of advantages that have been wrought by online classes, it is undeniable that traditional learning is hardly conducive. Students like Sayson are living proof that the effectiveness of face-to-face classes is measurably better.

The invasion of the pandemic primarily beat the bush of the educational system. It ripped off a myriad of chances for students to know about their chosen profession and about what awaits them. This evidently magnifies the impact of the aforementioned crisis on one’s career decisionmaking process since education is the key grip in fulfilling life, potentials, dreams, and in taking part towards achieving economic stability.

Plans A, B, and C Vice President for Higher Education Dr. Juliet Dalagan shares that she wants this batch (Class of 2022) to have a different experience. There has been no specific plans yet, but she furthers, “As much as possible, we want to have the face-to-face (graduation), if allowed by the government.” The University is bound to follow the protocols of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). With this, the graduation committee will be formulating and brainstorming Plan A, Plan B, and Plan C in the second week of November, each of which will

be in accordance with the city’s quarantine level status. This will allow the committee to make plans for either a face-to-face, online, or blended setting to be prepared ahead for the future.

“Hoping na maka face-to-face, but I’m not sure,” Dalagan concludes.

To undergo limited face-to-face internships, OJTs, and clinical duties are amongst the many clamors of students in this educational system.

The online internships seem uncertain among the students’ career development since there are substantial differences between working in the real world and in the digital setup. “The situation

The online internships seem uncertain among the students’ career development since there are substantial differences between working in the real world and in the digital setup. is very fluid right now so we are highly dependent on the quarantine status of the city,” Dalagan broached. “For the College of Engineering, they already have a CHED Memorandum Order (CMO) for [...] in-person internships,” she added. This setup suggests that students will have to be on campus, and internships will be more on working in the laboratory.

In regard to the situation last August where health-related programs were supposed to begin limited face-to-face classes consequent to the opening of AY 2021–2022, Dalagan announced, “Ready na unta ta sa atong Nursing, but nagEnhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) man so wala gihapon ta’y gakabuhat”. With regards to guidelines, XU has already set up the plate. “We

have a committee right now, we call it an ad hoc committee on online internships, formed by our Higher Ed council among the deans,” Dalagan attests. The committee will be creating the necessary guidelines for online internships by November. Assuredly, the University has jumpstarted into addressing the said point. Amidst what the pandemonium has brought around, it did not hinder them from keeping the fire burning when it comes to providing competent students.

Dalagan denoted, “If limited face-to-face is not allowed, we are ready. If it is allowed, we are ready.” However, this clears the air off that to all appearances, XU took action in producing students with extraordinary skill-consuming learning techniques. Concerning the situation, Dalagan says that it is the program chair who determines whether or not the programs are achieved. *** COVID-19 has brought about a haywire of emotions that has undoubtedly racked both the faith and the fears of students. Temporarily, the future is still weather-beaten and at a standstill, making face-to-face graduations, OJTs, and on-site duties shrouded mysteries full of hopes and dreams. Even then, though everything may seem cloudy, there is still that ambition allowing for a better tomorrow. May the University continue to strive for excellence so that, in due time, we may set foot on campus once again—enjoying companionship, growing in internships, and finishing the year by throwing our mortarboards on air.C

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One can grasp full knowledge of a certain topic but still fail to apply the correct procedure if not trained through hands-on learning.”

Jean Dominique Bersola XU Council of Nursing Students (XU-CONUS) President

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Vol. 48 No. 1 November 2021

CAMPUS

By Fritz F. Bustamante & Hyacinth L. Premacio

The University is getting larger and larger in terms of population and there is only so much that we can do to really add more spaces.

Dr. Hercules Cascon Dean, XU College of Engineering

he University’s “Campus of the Future” envisions quality education that extends to the future. Bidding farewell to the old campus and saying hello to a new one—the Masterson campus, named after the late Fr. William F. Masterson SJ, visualizes the future of an ameliorated Xavier Atenean education.

After a long process of planning, negotiating for funds, consultations and inquiries, the Masterson Campus has now become a reality in the making that aims to deliver the same Ignatian principle of education that students know so dearly but in a different and more futuristic mode of delivery.

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In its infancy The Masterson Campus is expected to have a considerable area of 21 hectares. Additionally, it will be surrounded by a 25-hectare land filled with a forest reserve. Although the layout of the campus is still in its infancy and is open to changes as the planning process continues, there are a number of possibilities that can be expected from the new “Campus of the Future.” One of the priorities that Crusader

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the Masterson Campus aims to target is innovation in terms of its mode of learning as dictated by the evolving methods of education in the 21st century.

A prime example of this is the abrupt adjustment to the online setup of learning brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic. The new campus claims to be “pandemic-proof”, pertaining to its ability to easily adapt to changes the pandemic has brought and will continue to bring. This innovation allows for a smooth transition between the traditional and the new online modes of learning. Simply put, it is anticipated to be “new-normal ready”.

The new campus is also expected to be a smart campus. This means that digital technology will be integrated into all school operations which is a particularly important feature, considering the relevance of the incorporation of new and more advanced technologies that further extend the quality of the education that XU can offer.

The University’s cognizance of environmental sustainability will also be reflected in the new campus. It will make use of green technology, which essentially depicts the use of technology that limits its negative impact on the environment.

An example of this is through solar power which is being taken into consideration especially since it utilizes a clean and renewable source of energy.

In addition to its theme of being a green campus, it will include green spaces, eco-parks, bike lanes, and a natural sanctuary.

A word from the helms The new campus of the future presents several opportunities for various colleges to reevaluate and reestablish their systems to continuously form students of excellence who are well adapted to the myriad challenges in learning in the 21st century.

“XU College of Nursing (XUCN) hopes the campus of the future will modify and enhance

the current nursing operations, systems, and manpower to ensure quality formation and transformation of the current and future generations of Atenean nurses,” shares XUCN Dean Dr. Mary Grace Paayas. College of Engineering Dean Dr. Hercules Cascon also sheds light on the need for better and bigger learning spaces and laboratories for the XU College of Engineering to ensure quality education and students’ safety.

“The University is getting larger and larger in terms of population and there is only so much that we can do to really add more spaces,” Cascon shares, hoping that the new campus will solve such problems amongst others.

Both deans further expressed their hopes that, with the new campus of the future, the research culture in XU will continuously improve and be nurtured. Dreams of research centers for each college have taken root and may very well become a reality in the next few years. *** A campus enriched in history that grew with CDO from its humble origins to the sprawling city it is today. Naturally, there is fear that with the new campus, the old one will be sold off and the memories it holds gone to the highest bidder.

We can hope that the University would find a way to keep the memories alive and perhaps when circumstances would allow, current students and alumni would be able to give a final tribute to the beloved campus.The campus of the future is a huge undertaking of the University, thus, there is a lot to be taken into consideration in the construction of a new and improved campus. Proper planning will be crucial to the success of this project. This is the perfect opportunity for the University to reinvent and reestablish itself as the paragon of quality education in the region.C Page Design by Derrick Kean A. Auxtero 7

CAMPUS

By Hanz Lloyd A. Paderon

ew acquaintances, funfair engagements, and everything in between— the XU College of Agriculture celebrated its annual Manresa Days event on September 15 to commemorate its founder, Fr William Masterson SJ. Its theme, “AGGIEVENTURE: The Ride Back Home,” paved the way for acknowledging the fun and exciting activities of this event amidst the extensive growth of the COVID-19 pandemic. The annual event was held via Facebook Live, with vibrant performing arts and informative trivia nights. As students waved their green flags along with their indomitable Aggie spirit, it became possible to host and conduct the event virtually for the second time, despite the adversities ahead.

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Yarn the hours away The smell of damp earth and the fresh breeze brings back collective memories of the Manresa Farm. For those who haven’t experienced it firsthand, it’s where the magic happens. Barn dancing and western dress-ups? These are just some of the much-awaited activities brought by the Manresa Days, not to mention the Rodeo as the event’s main highlight. Needless to say, it does not revolve around the celebration of the farm itself but also to welcome schools outside the University to join their field and contests. The last goal of this event is to gather the students, the alumni, and everyone who is part of the Aggie community.

Unfortunately, the flow of plans does not always go smoothly like a river, as some unexpected tides and barriers hinder us from experiencing the bliss and respite of the event. The sudden emergence of the Coronavirus became the biggest challenge yet for the event as it continues to spoil everyone else’s fun. Despite the hardship, the project committees went above and beyond 8

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the hurdles of what the pandemic gave them, making the Virtual Manresa feasible and open for every agriculture student.

Project Head Jaerah Mae Emano recounts the stark difference between the previous Virtual Manresa and the current event, “Everything was much better and improved, and the committees were able to grasp an opportunity to adjust, unlike the rushed preparation last year.”

As students waved their green flags along with their indomitable Aggie spirit, it became possible to host and conduct the event virtually for the second time, despite the adversities ahead.

Spark a new legacy Finding other alternatives to instigate the event has never been easy, knowing the limits and boundaries of different platforms. Emano shares some of the challenges she encountered through her experience, “The fact that it had to be online, the biggest problem here is [bad] internet connectivity. Aside from that, it disconnects people, and it discourages motivation

to participate.” Moreover, it does not stop the committee from continuing to work to make the event successful. Everything happens online, and it’s either through Facebook, Discord, or Zoom meetings.

On the second day, to promote the College of Agriculture, they administered a trivia night which was open to all students. Moreover, Manresa Days is not just about the fun activities, it also has educational webinars relevant to its field, as well as contests like essay writing to recount the students’ experiences. BS Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering student Kaye Noreen Ricacho shares her encounter with the event over the years, “This is how we showcase our culture as a member of the College of Agriculture.

I encourage everyone to participate and enjoy, and no student should be missing out on all the fun.”

On its final day, the closing program and talent night were merged and planned to occur simultaneously. *** This year is all about taking risks and looking at the brighter side. Emano says, “Being tired is normal, but that’s where I realized that without that feeling, I would not have seen how worth it the event was. It’s also important to love what we do because you have to love something for you to sacrifice.”

As the Virtual Manresa celebration comes to a close, Emano remarks, “Let’s pray, hope, and wish together that this will be the last Manresa Days that we get to celebrate online. We are looking forward to having most of the events face-toface rather than on Facebook Live. If not, there’s always room for improvement.” Indeed, it is this hopefulness that makes the Aggie spirit, and the Manresa Days as a whole, blaze to life.C Vol. 48 No. 1 November 2021

or nearly two years, the world has seen the crippling effects of the COVID-19 pandemic—restlessness and fear restrained countless countries including the Philippines.

These unprecedented challenges, coupled with the intensifying infection surge and death rates, have induced havoc to the community.

However, the COVID-19 virus was not the only predicament the government had to witness. They had to grapple with the ever-growing problem of plastic pollution from the accumulation of medical waste procured from health care activities.

Consequently, already strained with a stream of pandemic measures, another impending threat must be confronted.

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A drifting problem The face masks and face shields have been essentially utilized to guard the people against the imminent effects of the virus. As the pandemic lingers, the increase in the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) has resulted in a worrying spike in the number of medical wastes disposed of.

Data from the CDO City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office (CLENRO) reported that in 2020, city-owned hospitals and health centers had generated a total of 1,000 kg medical waste per day. The bulk of these medical wastes contained face shields, face masks, disposable gloves, contaminated tissues, bandages, and cotton balls. These striking numbers have caused an outpour of dilemmas for the local government units (LGUs) and hospitals as medical wastes bear a potential health hazard to frontliners and other health care workers.

The infectious and hazardous wastes additionally pose detrimental threats to the environment, particularly marine life. Department Head of CLENRO Engr. Armen Cuenca shares, “If left untreated, it (infectious waste) will transmit potentially harmful microorganisms and viruses that can infect the community and the environment.” The COVID-19 situation has not only exposed the vulnerability of the country, but has also unveiled the severity of its consequences into marine and terrestrial environments.

The estuary of two crises An estuary is where saltwater and freshwater meet. It best exemplifies the current situation where two major problems intersect—a public health and environmental crisis. Medical wastes are piling on top of the larger plastic pollution problem. Environmentalists have warned that the pandemic may exacerbate the build-up of more wastes in bodies of water.

The medical waste problem is particularly significant in the Philippines. It is no less than the world’s center of the center of marine biodiversity as provided in the 4th National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity. By simply looking at the archipelago’s ocean map, one would feast at the sight of a sunken Atlantic haven of marine creatures that are at grave risks of pollution. The majestic Philippine Rise and Coral Triangle lie in the East and West respectively, while the Verde Island Passage navigates across the archipelago’s islands. Paradoxically, the Philippines ranks as the top contributor of plastic Crusader

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LOCAL

By Andre’ F. Doria & Claire T. Vanguardia

As the city fights a virus, its people must also take it upon themselves to help mitigate environmental predicaments of medical waste pollution. pollution to the oceans, and 19 of its rivers including Pasig River and Cagayan de Oro River contribute massively to the problem. Following the trickling ridge to reef effect, irresponsible disposal of face masks and face shields could further pollute surrounding waters. In CDO, marine protected areas and sanctuaries along the Macajalar Bay are particularly vulnerable. As the city continues to be in quarantine with teetering COVID-19 positive cases, nearby marine life is still in grave danger of the general public’s medical wastes reaching its surrounding waters.

Meeting halfway Much like an estuary, there are opportunities to meet a public health crisis and environmental crisis halfway. While hospitals are already heating and grinding medical wastes for safe and eco-

friendly disposal, the general population can act more conscientiously.

Environmental Toxicologist Elvis Genbo Xu from the University of Southern Denmark and Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering Zhiyong Jason Ren provided suggestions to mitigate the surge of the new variant of the plastic problem. First, set up separate medical waste trash cans for safe collection and disposal at home.

Second, use reusable masks. Third, call on the local government to introduce or reinforce waste management guidelines for the locality and to finally add, reduce PPE use by staying at home. *** It has indeed been two years since the public health crisis of the COVID-19 pandemic began but it has also been far more than two decades since the world realized a greater looming environmental crisis. In CDO, the same reminder applies that as the city fights a virus, its people must also take it upon themselves to help mitigate environmental predicaments of medical waste pollution.

There is a middle ground where one basic solution of a problem does not have to exacerbate the other; the people just have to start widening their view at societal problems and acknowledge that there is a better two-way move of getting wasted in a double crisis.C Page Design by Melvin P. Villacote

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NATIONAL

The Illusion of Normalcy

By Reina Margaret Gwynette T. Villamor

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alk less, smile more—this has seemingly become the default of our country’s current educational system. An illusion of normalcy, students have been driven to continue with distance learning even amidst the lack of a health-responsive and human rights-based approach to this pandemic. Given the various detrimental effects of this educational setup, who else is better equipped to break this ‘illusion’ but the students?

A hit or miss Following physical distancing protocols and limiting face-to-face gatherings brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Philippines turned to distance learning. Here, teachers and students are geographically separated and their interactions are limited to either the online or modular setup. For more well-off schools and universities, distance learning is contained mostly in the online setup, whereas, other schools settle for flexible learning—a mix of modular and online learning, and TV and radio broadcasted lectures.

Although a positive step towards continuing the education of students, it poses issues such as 10

finance, logistics, adjustment to new modes of learning, and other uncertainties. Students face issues on internet connectivity, comprehension of self-learning materials, and even their mental health.

Now on its second-year run, distance learning proves to be less efficient than promised as some two million of last year’s students are yet to enroll. As of writing, data from the Department of Education (DepEd) show that a total of 24,603,822 or only 93.8 percent of SY 2020–2021’s over 26.6 million public and private school students have enrolled for the current school year. Moreover, as of November 2021, the Philippines is the only

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Huwag natin kalimutan na matagal na tayo nasa krisis. Ito ay pinalala lamang ng COVID-19 pandemic.

Ken Paolo Gilo National Convener, Student Council Alliance of the Philippines

Vol. 48 No. 1 November 2021

The Philippines is the only country left in the distance learning setup.

As of November 2021, the Philippines still has not opened its schools to the general student population. However, a pilot run of face-to-face classes in select public schools in the country is set to commence on Nov 15 of this year.

country left in this distance learning setup. A beacon of hope in these times is the pilot run of limited face-to-face classes for schools in areas considered to be in low risk of COVID-19. DepEd says the pilot run is scheduled on Nov 15 until Jan 31 of next year. However, given the inherent gaps in this current system, as well as the diverse demographics and background of the students, there are bound to be hits and misses in this everchanging academic endeavor.

A cry of an alliance On Sept 13, following this pressing issue, the Student Council Alliance of the Philippines (SCAP) staged a Press Conference on the Declaration of Education Crisis through a virtual Zoom meeting.

The alliance, being one of the largest formations of student councils, student governments, and student political parties and organizations in the country, presented their four-point agenda on the current educational crisis the country is facing.

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First, SCAP lobbies for the safe reopening of schools, with the inclusion of students, teachers, and staff in starting a clear roadmap towards the return to face to face learning by ensuring a health-responsive and human rights-based approach to the pandemic. Second, it calls for the provision of accessible mental health services for all students, teachers, and staff. Third, the restoration of budget cuts to the education sector (including a Php 10 billion slash from scholarship programs), reinstating the student aid program, and allotting the recommended 20 percent of the national budget to the education sector with close monitoring of its utilization. Lastly, SCAP pushes for the passage of the Students Rights and Welfare (STRAW) Act. “Huwag nating kalimutan na matagal na tayong nasa krisis... ito ay pinalala lamang ng COVID-19 pandemic,” says SCAP National Convener Ken Paolo Gilo during the Zoom press conference.

“Huwag sana nating ipasan sa mga paaralan ang responsibilidad (of the burdens of the distance learning set-up) dahil hindi ito inclusive at patas.”

Actively involved in local, sectoral, and national campaigns, SCAP works for progressive reforms in the educational system through executive and legislative advocacy. They hope to achieve this by forging a dynamic partnership with various organizations and institutions, such as Akbayan Youth and the various student councils in the country, that advances the advocacy for accessible, relevant, and quality education.

Supporting SCAP is Senate Committee Chair on Women, Children, Family Relations, and Gender Equality Senator Risa Hontiveros, who has filed Proposed Senate Resolution No. 901 on Sept 8. The resolution, known as the “Emergency Plan for the Education Crisis” urges the executive branch and the public education sector to collaborate in formulating and implementing a targeted emergency plan for the education crisis.

It aims to focus on the safe and careful reopening of schools in selected areas, effective utilization of the country’s education budget, and provision of necessary mental health services for students and other academic sectors to ensure that no student gets left behind. “Implementing an emergency plan ASAP [sic] that covers the

Venezuela

Opened schools on October 25, the second to the last country to open before the Philippines

Philippines

Closed schools in all levels (preschool to tertiary) since March of 2020

safe reopening of schools in selected areas, the effective utilization of the education budget, and the provision of mental health services for students and other members of the education sector is clearly a matter of life and death,” Hontiveros asserts during a press release on Sept 13. “Pakinggan natin ang kabataan, dahil sino pa ba ang nakakaalam kung gaano kahirap at kung gaano nasasayang ang edukasyon nila sa distance learning, kundi ang mga estudyante natin mismo?” she adds.

As of writing, the proposed resolution is still pending in the committee.

A national movement Given the stirs of SCAP, various student councils and organizations have heeded the call for the declaration of an educational crisis.

Recognizing the current system’s disregard for student welfare, these groups have joined SCAP in lobbying for its four-point agenda.

“The education crisis demanded at the national level resonates with the [experiences] of students from Mindanao. With various student organizations in CDO joining this cause, it is clear that we all want to make sure that the rights of the students in the in-school sector are protected,” says SCAP National Adviser for Mindanao Affairs and Oro Youth Development Council Co-chairperson Chester Cotacte. “This is a national movement as various student organizations from Luzon to Mindanao have joined. Apart from this, it is multisectoral because we have groups such as mental health organizations joining this cause,” he adds.

Moreover, Cotacte says that SCAP hopes to be more proactive by making use of presscons, online rallies, and lobbying these concerns to legislators in order to keep this national movement going. *** Talk less, smile more—the formula fed to the unheard and powerless. However, students are tired of smiling. Smiling less and talking more, they are no longer the disillusioned ‘yes-men’ of the educational system. In fact, they are worn out, distraught, and angry. They recognize that there is nothing to smile about, as this illusion of normalcy has dragged on for far too long.C

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NATIONAL

By Regina Noelle C. Arquiza & Rustom Louiegie P. Duran, Jr. s far as family dinners go, nothing is more awkward than the deafening silence after a heated argument over politics—not even when sitting next to a distant relative with whom you’re not familiar. An ordinary family dinner can turn rather blotchy when topics such as politics are served on a shining, shimmering platter, especially when you find yourselves on opposing sides. But it doesn’t always have to be this way.

Dinner can still be engaging without the screams and threats of disownment thrown around the table. Handling political discussions among the family may leave a bad taste in your mouth, but with a precise and well-thought out menu (read: plan) in store, dinner won’t have to be so awkward and silent after all.

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Appetizers and reservations Just like how appetizers set the mood for the entire meal, you must also set the ambience of your conversations by setting your reservations beforehand. You must set realistic standards for your family members, especially if they have radically opposing views. You can’t expect to change their views in just one sitting, so it is better to handle one talk and issue at a time, and save your other concerns for later.

Main course 1: Set Boundaries When choosing your main course meal, you have a lot of things to consider—the same goes for setting your boundaries when trying to initiate political discussions with the family. First thing you need to think about is consent. Are your relatives comfortable discussing politics? If yes, then you can go ahead and start the conversation.

But if they say no, it is important to respect their limits, and bring up the conversation only when they feel otherwise. Another thing to consider

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is whether the occasion calls for the discussion.

Grand occasions like weddings and graduations are some events where having a discussion as heated as this one is a big “no no”. The best thing to do is to save conversations like these for informal gatherings only, so as to avoid spoiling the mood for everyone.

Don’t talk when your mouth is full A discussion that falls on deaf ears is no discussion at all. When engaging with people of different viewpoints, it is essential that we learn to hear their side of the story too and give

Dinner can still be engaging without the screams and threats of disownment thrown around the table. their arguments a chance as well, as this also encourages them to do the same for you, when given your time to speak. Don’t be too hasty about giving the facts because it is impolite to shove food down your relatives’ throats without considering that they may have something to say too. We don’t want this to end in a back and forth between you and them, so when the urge to scream gets you full, try to swallow.

Lay it on the table During dinner and dealing with people who have different values, we have to lay our opinions on the table. But let us not forget to give them space

to voice their own opinions while having our own personal convictions. Giving them space to voice out their opinions allows them to feel respected and that their opinions are valued, thus allowing for a more mature conversation to transpire.

Dessert: Bundt (or burnt) cake Dinner is coming to an end, and there seems to be no hope in sight. As much as we want to end on a sweet note and raise a toast to the different political views everyone is entitled to, we cannot remain neutral in the face of such trying times.

UP Cebu Political Science Professor Ana Cuizon advises that we should highlight what we share with the family more than our personal priorities. Although, is the compromise really worth it if there are millions of lives riding on a majority’s vote? This is a matter of human rights and morality, so we must do all that we can so that everyone is assured of a sweet delight and not the burnt underside of the cake.

The tea Now that your minds and stomachs are full, it is time we have tea, to settle and process the truth and nothing but the truth.

We’re entitled to our own opinions, sure, but when it’s at the expense of other people, we have to continue pouring relevant information to our family members to wake them up, or at the very least, provide them with and guide them to the right direction. Tea is best served hot and what could be hotter than reliable facts alongside your bagels and biscuits? *** With this, always remember to stand your ground when handing in your two cents in the conversation no matter how different your opinions might be. So, table for two?C

Vol. 48 No. 1 November 2021

NATIONAL

By Nia Enrille R. Rabanes

Knowledge acquired after research, study, or instruction.

Something personally encountered, undergone, or lived through.

The subjective state of feeling.

The quality of being actual— something that is objectively real and is presented without any added insight.

A view, judgment, or appraisal of a particular matter induced by verified information. A political opinion is not based purely on personal preference.

Statement: “According to the records, the unemployment rate of 4.9% in 1978 increased to 5.9% in 1983. The real wage rate index for skilled workers in 1972 was Php 100 and dropped to Php 63.7 in 1980, while the wages for unskilled workers was Php 100 and became Php 53.4.”

Information is verifiable by legitimate sources.

Check: bit.ly/2ZoW3O7; bit.ly/3GhBhk3 The statement does not indicate any bias, only a straightforward delivery of information. The statement is a fact.

Statement: “I beg to disagree. Among other things, The Office of the Vice President (OVP) was able to put up services that greatly helped the frontliners and those in overlooked communities. They offered free shuttle services, free antigen testing, and telecommunication services in the midst of the pandemic.”

The statement begins with an indicator of taking a side, “I beg to disagree.” The intent of the information that follows is to persuade that Robredo has “done something remarkable.”

Information is verifiable by legitimate sources.

Check: bit.ly/3vJ0NK7; bit.ly/3CcFMd9; and bit.ly/3b5yHPP The statement is an appraisal of what the OVP has achieved based on information that is true. The statement is an opinion.

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A view, judgment, or appraisal of a particular matter that is lacking in knowledge.

Statement: “Of course! He started the Build Build Build program in which all of the infrastructure projects have been completed. Look at all our new highways and bridges.”

The statement begins with the intent to prove that the speaker has one thing they’re proud of about Duterte.

Information is not verified to be true according to credible sources: The Build Build Build project originally had 75 infrastructure projects in 2017, as of press time has risen to 119. However, only 11 of these have been recorded as completed. Check: bit.ly/3vDgZwC. Most of the highways and bridges completed have already been underway prior to them becoming part of the project. Example: Skyway Stage 3 was launched by President Noynoy Aquino bit.ly/3BggvOg. The statement is an appraisal of the success of the Build Build Build project but provides wrong information.

The statement comes from ignorance.

Whether it may be an article, a TikTok video, or a Facebook post, comprehend to the best of your abilities the idea that is being conveyed but keep reservations about information that can be further researched. Identifying political comments can be a process, but the better we are at handling them, the more responsible citizens we become.C Page Design by Kevin Matthew N. Pacana

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NATIONAL

On January 17 of this year, Martial Law officially ended with Proclamation No. 2045 but Marcos’ dictatorship continues on for five more years.

By Levina O. Palarca & Irone L. Jabagat

It has been almost five decades since former President Ferdinand Marcos declared Martial Law in the Philippines. And yet, time failed to dull the horrors of that era as we are reminded, time and time again, of what transpired during those years of dictatorship.

Unemployment rate in 1985

Inflation rate in 1985

Underemployment peaked at 33% in 1984 On September 23 of this year, President Ferdinand Marcos declared Martial Law under Proclamation No. 1080.

During the 1st day of Martial Law, “military had shut down mass media, flights were canceled, and incoming overseas calls were prohibited.”

6 out of 10 families were poor, compared to 4 out of 10 families before the start of Marcos’ term.

1984 GDP (record-low)

Poverty Incidence was at 49 percent or 27 million

wrongly imprisoned tortured

The daily wages of Filipino agricultural workers fell by

disappeared were stolen from the country’s coffers

innocent people killed

In 1990, the Swiss Federal Supreme Court proclaimed that the Marcoses hid $365 million in Swiss banks during their two-decade rule.

From 1977 to 1982, the country’s debt rocketed from $8.2 billion to $24.4 billion within 5 years.

Thousands of people marched in EDSA on February 22 to oust Ferdinand Marcos, ending his dictatorship.

It took the country about 21 years to recover from the economic decline during the Marcos regime.

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Until now, misinformation is still rampant. We see various narratives claiming and asserting that the Marcos era was the golden years of our country. Yet, if one truly tries to seek it, facts backed by evidence say otherwise—that there was more dark than golden. The abuser may try to hide the truth— manipulate it even, in the guise of painting him as the hero of his story—but truth always remains the truth. They may try but the truth never waivers.

They may try but we will never forget.C Sources www.amnesty.org/en/documents/asa35/9139/2018/en/ www.officialgazette.gov.ph/featured/the-fall-of-the-dictatorship/ www.martiallawmuseum.ph/ www.ibon.org/under-marcos-employment-fell-prices-soared-poverty-persisted/ news.abs-cbn.com/business/09/21/17/the-best-of-times-data-debunk-marcoss-economic-golden-years

Vol. 48 No. 1 November 2021

MOVIE REVIEW

By Levina Eunice O. Palarca

While the evils and doubts within ourselves can be conquered, corruption where it is considered a social practice, is almost unrootable. o you know what a bud rot is? A bud rot is a plant disease where molds result in the decay of plant buds and it spreads and spreads until everything it touches is dead. A bud rot also pretty much sums up “Smaller and Smaller Circles”, a Filipino film directed by Raya Martin and based on the novel of the same name written

by F.H. Batacan. The 2017 film is a peculiarity of its kind—though fictional, it weaves into its alreadyhorrifying plot the horrific realities of our country.

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A Filipino murder mystery The film follows two Jesuit priests, Fr. Augusto Saenz, a forensic specialist, and his student-turned-partner Fr. Jerome Lucero as they investigate the series of murders of young boys in the slums of Payatas, Quezon City. Rarely can you find a murder mystery Filipino film structured in a way that likens to the mystery genre’s western counterparts—almost reminiscent to Sherlock Crusader

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Holmes and John Watson. Saenz and Lucero’s exchanges not only exude sharpness and vivacity that of detectives but also contain playful banter characteristic of Filipino humor.

Apart from the character dynamic, the plot also gives off a sense of oddity to the film—a serial killer in the Philippines? Realistically, it is unheard of (it is even mentioned in the film) which makes the story more intriguing; viewers will be drawn to the mismatch of the foreign murder mystery elements and the familiar Filipino setting.

Speaking of familiarity, Filipino viewers would be able to immediately catch on to what makes the film hit close to home. In contrast to its fictional elements, the story comes full circle with the hard realities portrayed throughout the film.

An ode to rot One can smell the rot and decay in the film; from the somber shots of Payatas to the recurring themes of corruption not only hinted at, but also clearly exhibited, in the story. While Saenz and Lucero investigate the serial killings, challenges also face them—often by the corruption within the institutions that were supposed to be their allies.

One of the first scenes of the movie is a conversation between the two priests about a church official who had been proven to have molested young children but was protected by the Catholic Church. Pure disgust from Saenz about the situation led to complications with his relationship with the higher order of the Church, affecting his investigatory work.

To think, that is only the side dressing to the salad of social issues in the film. Another kick to the viewers was the incompetence of the National Bureau of Investigation which is littered by officials who take their work for granted in exchange for

selfish desires. It smells familiar, doesn’t it? It can’t be helped to liken these institutions to our main characters—they put on a charade of heroism.

At least one of the two acknowledges the rot deep within. While the evils and doubts within ourselves can be conquered, corruption where it is considered a social practice, is almost unrootable.

An eye-opener While the plot of the film is your typical murder mystery, it also appears to be a commentary in disguise. We are charmed by the Saenz and Lucero dynamic, with their charming and playful wit. But it is also the same wit, coupled with their awareness of the issues surrounding them, that amplifies what Martin and Batacan intended to be said. Saenz’s strong and opinionated character challenges the Bishop’s beliefs with his sharp remarks; “By sweeping the dirt under the rug?”

Saenz spat back when the Bishop said the church had its ways to keep itself in order.

Lucero, a teacher, mentions in one of his classes the atrocities of Ferdinand Marcos’ Martial Law; “Time and forgetfulness are the allies of abusers,” he tells the students. Saenz and Lucero visit Hon. Tess Mariano who led many projects within her community; “I will vote for her,” both agree upon.

These fleeting instances make the film as insightful as it is thrilling. Even the mystery is barely a question of who the killer is but rather why they did what they did. *** Smaller and Smaller Circles is not only a movie for crime thriller fans—it is a must-watch for everyone. It portrays the bud rots that are ever so present in our society, ready to infect and infect until they get every one of us.C Page Design by Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas 15

GLOBAL

By Nia Enrille Rabanes

mong other things, having been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize felt like a validation of everything that journalist and Rappler cofounder and CEO Maria Ressa has been fighting for the last few years until present.

A warm round of applause and greetings of congratulations had been in order at the time news broke out about it. But soon after, internet trolls and Facebook bums have also said their piece, mostly to claim that it was rigged, and others that it’s nothing important really. In an attempt to set the middle ground, we ask: Is this award something that could be glossed over?

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Breaking the news to the world On Oct 8, Ressa received a call from Norwegian Nobel Committee Secretary Olav Njølstad, informing her of being a recipient of the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize along with Russian journalist Dmitry Muratov for—according to the Nobel Peace Prize’s official announcement— “their efforts to safeguard freedom of expression, which is a precondition for democracy and lasting peace,” and “their courageous fight for freedom of expression in the Philippines and Russia.”

The Nobel Prize is given annually to those who have made noteworthy intellectual achievement and who have “conferred the greatest benefit on mankind,” according to Swedish inventor and industrialist Alfred Nobel whose will started the foundation of selecting individuals that fit the criteria. In the same will, he indicated that the prizes are to be divided into five equal parts which include the fields of Physics, Chemistry, Physiology, Literature, and Peace. Later, the Sveriges Riksbank established an additional award, the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences, in honor of Nobel, and the prize continued to be identified with the Nobel Prize. Ressa is the first Filipino to 16

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have ever been awarded a Nobel Peace Prize and is one among 13 laureates of the Nobel Prize in 2021. The award ceremony will be held in Oslo on Dec 10.

What this award means In an interview with Harvard following the announcement, Ressa says that the immediate effect of having won the prize united journalists as a group—Filipinos as a group. However, this was

‘‘

One of the things I’ve learned in the last five years is that the only way a journalist defends himself or herself is by shining the light.”

Maria A. Ressa First Filipino Nobel Peace Prize Laureate

immediately countered by the taunts that ensued.

She also adds, “It took the presidential palace until Monday (Oct 11) to respond, and it was doubleedged, as it has been.”

The ongoing heat between the presidential palace and Rappler had started as early as 2017 when President Rodrigo Duterte included in his State of the Nation Address (SONA) false claims of the news outlet’s ownership. In 2018, a series of complaints and cases were filed against Rappler and Ressa, to which critics defined as attacks

against press freedom. Duterte is very public about his distaste for articles that opposed him, and Rappler is known to have released numerous critical stories on his campaign against drugs and the deliberate proliferation of disinformation.

In Oct 2018, Ressa even spoke at the Atlantic Council conference and expressed the severity of the conditions for journalists in the Philippines, identifying government and social media as two fronts of the impunity they are facing. It’s not a big surprise how they are especially being intimidated.

“What we’ve been fighting is the battle for facts,” Ressa outlines. And while Presidential Spokesperson Secretary Harry Roque may dismiss the objective with the statement, “As everyone knows, no one has ever been censored in the Philippines,” the awarding body of the Nobel Prize and all the other international organizations with humanity’s best intention in mind think otherwise.

The rest of the world sees the staggering state in which our democracy lies, and the Nobel Peace Prize making its way to the unrelenting force that protects this democracy is a huge nudge to keep going. *** Ressa, a pursuer of truth, who’s had to stomach malicious attacks from Duterte and his allies for doing so, had just been acknowledged for braving the fight. This means continuing what she has always done—being a journalist. “One of the things I’ve learned in the last five years is that the only way a journalist defends himself or herself is by shining the light,” Ressa states. Rappler and Ressa are, as of press time, facing seven active cases, but they’re not showing any signs of slowing down. Let’s imbibe their energy by doing our part, journalists and ordinary citizens alike, in pursuing truth despite any form of intimidation. As Ressa says, “You’ve got to keep doing the story.”C Vol. 48 No. 1 November 2021

The Nobel Prize. It is “any of various annual prizes (as in peace, literature, medicine) established by the will of Alfred Nobel for the encouragement of persons who work for the interests of humanity.”

We have the Swedish chemist and inventor Alfred Nobel to thank. When he signed his last will and testament on Nov 27, 1895, he bequeathed a generous slice of his fortune to a number of prizes in accordance to great achievements in physics, chemistry, physiology or medicine, literature and peace, which are now famously known as the Nobel Prizes.

The Peace Prize is awarded by the Norwegian Nobel Committee based in Oslo, an “independent five-member body appointed by the Norwegian Parliament.”

In his will, Alfred Nobel stipulated himself that four different institutions should award the prizes. The Norwegian Nobel Committee oversees the Peace Prize, while other institutions preside over the Nobel Prizes for Physics, the Nobel Prize for Chemistry, the Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine, the Nobel Prize for Literature, and an additional award, the Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences.

the number of times that the Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded

As a commemorative tradition in memory of the late Alfred Nobel, The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded every year on the day of his death (Dec 10) in the presence of the King of Norway and the Norwegian royal family.

the number of laureates awarded with the Nobel Peace Prize

men

women

Martin Luther King Jr. The Nobel Peace Prize 1964. “for his non-violent struggle for civil rights for the Afro-American population.”

orgs

the number of years the Nobel Peace Prize was not awarded (mostly due to World Wars I and II)

the year the first-ever prizes were handed

If the idea of contributing to the greater good of humanity is still a vague indicator of how massive an honor this is, let’s measure the prestige of the Nobel Peace Prize by their past awardees. Here’s a few laureates you might know by name:

A Nobel is attainable if you somehow manage to accomplish one of Alfred Nobel’s three criteria for the peace prize, being one “who shall have done the most or the best work for fraternity between nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses.”

Aside from an internationally acknowledged legacy that will span throughout history, an awardee will be granted a Nobel Prize diploma, a Nobel Prize medal (handmade and made of 18 carat recycled gold), and a document confirming the Nobel Prize amount. How much, you ask? For this year’s laureate, the monetary award amounts to a total of SEK 10M, or around PHP 60M.C

Mother Teresa The Nobel Peace Prize 1979. “for her work for bringing help to suffering humanity.”

Nelson Mandela The Nobel Peace Prize 1993. “for their work for the peaceful termination of the apartheid regime, and for laying the foundations for a new democratic South Africa.”

Sources: www.nobelpeaceprize.org/nobel-peace-prize/about-the-nobel-peace-prize/ | www.nobelprize.org/prizes/facts/nobel-prize-facts/ | www.britannica.com/topic/Nobel-Prize | www.nobelprize.org/behind-the-scenes-of-the-nobel-peace-prize/ | www.nobelprize.org/questions-and-answers-on-the-nobel-peace-prize/ | www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Nobel%20Prize

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SPORTS

By Danica Ela P. Armendarez

he Tokyo 2020 Olympics has, by far, been one of the most memorable events for the Philippines, especially during this time of a pandemic. In the blue corner of success was Carlo Paalam. He did not only box his way to earn a spot in the podium, but he also had to go up against his worst opponent of them all—life. One step, one punch, and one round at a time, he triumphed both inside and outside the ring.

This historic moment is definitely one for the books. Who would have thought that the youngest member in the Philippines’ Tokyo 2020 boxing team would bring joyous pride to the country and to our Oro?

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Dodging life’s battles Before boxing turned his life around, Carlo could be seen collecting garbage to provide food for his family in the streets of Carmen. At the age of seven, he worked as a scavenger at the Zayas landfill in CDO. Even with the added income from his strenuous job, their family’s earnings could not suffice to make ends meet. With only a few dimes in their hands, he knew that he should do something more.

Around this age, Carlo also started joining amateur boxing matches. He would use his winnings to buy rice for his family. But what started as another means to make a living became something more. In 2009, he was scouted by the local officials after figuring on his first match at the “Boxing at the Park” competition in Plaza Divisoria—formerly known as Golden City Park. A year later, he was placed under the CDO boxing training program (now called the CDO boxing team). Later, in 2013 he joined the Philippine National team. From then on, Carlo saw opportunity after opportunity in his boxing career, which soon brought him to the international stage.

His exposure to various national and international competitions like the 2016 18

Page Design by Sheil Ann Ashley P. Bruas

International Boxing Association (AIBA), 2019 Youth Asian and World Championships, and the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games allowed Carlo to travel to different places, delve into new experiences, and provide for his family.

Today, Carlo is not just an Olympian and a national athlete, he is also his family’s breadwinner–their “golden boy”.

Carlo’s story proves that no matter where you begin, as long as you have the determination, you will always end up winning in life.

Passing on the torch As the youngest member in the Philippines’ Tokyo 2020 boxing team, Carlo never thought he could bring home this much honor to CDO and to the entire country. Taking home a silver medal from his first ever Olympic stint is no mere feat—it is a historic celebration. Now amongst the prestigious line of Filipino Olympians, his win did not only put him on the map, it also inspired boxers and athletes alike.

However, despite the overwhelming recognition, Carlo never forgot his roots, most especially the people who helped him reach his

dreams. His coach, Elmer Pamisa, recalls how Carlo shared his blessings among the aspiring young boxers of the CDO Boxing Team, where Carlo started his humble journey. “Nagpakaon siya, gipamalitan niya tanan boxing athlete sa gym ug mga gamit nga ilang gusto. Gi-share jud niya sa tibuok CDO Boxing Team iyahang blessings, which is mga butang nga dili niya kaya ma-afford sa una,” Pamisa shares.

It wasn’t just honor that Carlo took home— he brought influence and inspiration as well for aspiring young athletes in the city. “Pagbalik namo ni Carlo sa gym, nidumog jud amoang mga boxing athlete [sic], halos sila tanan gusto mahimong parehas sa ilahang Kuya Carlo,” Pamisa adds.

Swinging for the gold The fight never stops for the golden boy, Carlo Paalam. Right now, he aims to bag more gold in different international contests, including the Paris 2024 Olympics. In the coming months, he plans to return to the first stage of his training in CDO. Moreover, amidst all the recognition, support, and resources at his disposal, Carlo still wishes to be trained by his trusted coach. “Naa pa mi sa bus sa Tokyo ato unya nanghangyo na jud siya nga kung pwede kami gihapon mag-uban sa Paris.

Ingon ko sa iyaha nga ubanan jud tika basta dili lang ka magbago,” Pamisa shares. *** Yesterday, Carlo was fishing for scraps—today he has brought home the medallion. Little did the young Carlo know that the biggest fortune he had was sitting right on the tip of his knuckles. And with everything he has today, his history reflects how the game of life works. He may have started earning from scraps, but he brought home the medal and the heart of an Olympian. Carlo’s story proves that no matter where you begin, as long as you have the determination, you will always end up winning in life.C Vol. 48 No. 1 November 2021

LAMPOON

Unfriended! is the season of the year—nope, not Christmas, because that began last September—where everyone is getting on social media to proclaim their politics and fight the good fight (which Cora believes to happen outside of online platforms, but every bit counts).

As election season lingers ominously beyond the horizon, the filing of candidacies seems to have awakened something dark and unbridled among our countrymen. Friendships are being challenged, family relations are soured, social media algorithms are being disrupted at the expense of the apolitical, and Cora feels more alive than ever. Finally, she can put her last name to actual use.

As she flexes her fingers, ready to exercise her right to freedom of expression on the internet, Cora notices a Fakebook post that leaves her aghast and, for the first time in a long while, speechless.

It was a profile picture frame supporting a presidential runner of doubtful origins and a more suspect track record. This isn’t what troubles Cora however, since politicians of his likeness are not in short supply, it’s that the person who updated their profile was her high school bestfriend.

First of all, yes, Cora went to high school, even if it seems that she was born and raised as a tertiary student of the University this entire time (that’s only how she reinvented herself after high school). And, as if the betrayal of the profile picture frame wasn’t enough, her friend’s caption took the knife at Cora’s back and dug it deeper: Bahala na kung magnanakaw, kurap, sinungaling, at mamamatay-tao, siya pa rin ang iboboto ko.

Cora, in her state of disbelief, holds back tears as she reads the hashtags #RespectMyOpinion, #DontEducateMe, and #AhBastaSolidPaRin. It takes Cora a solid minute before properly processing what she had read. At this point in her life, where people had called her out for being woke and too progressive as if those were bad things, she thought she would have been desensitized from how unbelievably toxic Fakebook could be.

It just hits different when we personally know the user behind the profile.

As respect to her friend, and to avoid fanning the flames of an inevitable comment section debate, Cora proceeds to her friend’s DMs to reach out to her. Cora expected to be welcomed with dismissive hostility, except she was met by a fanatic who was aggressively intent on convincing Cora to join her on the other side.

But since Cora wishes only to understand her, to figure out how her years-long best friend came to have this political stance, Cora chooses to stay and listen—she would soon come out with

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fewer brain cells than before. Her friend, as per Cora’s request, cites her sources of information, which were namely, TokTik, her late grandparents, and the neighborhood tambays during one particularly political drinking session. And as per Cora’s duty as a Filipino citizen and as the editor of The Cruchever, she states that these sources are unreliable and shouldn’t be trusted. To which her friend replies, “Edi ikaw na ang matalino.

Diyan ka naman magaling.” Afterwards, Cora’s explanation was left on read. Cora was ready for a day full of fighting for the oppressed, advocating for appointing the right leaders, and debunking misinformation across the internet.

But now she finds herself feeling defeated.

Even those closest to her may succumb to the lies of propaganda-pumping machines like Fakebook.

Although that didn’t mean her friend was a lost cause. Cora revisits her friend’s timeline, searching for that one sign that maybe everything said was all in irony, and that this whole problem was a satirical lampoon Cora was too thick to understand. What she finds, however, is a new post published only a few minutes ago. It read: “Don’t let politics ruin relationships. One of the truest tests of maturity is the ability to disagree with someone while remaining respectful.”

Sure, a noble philosophy, Cora thinks to herself. But agreeing and disagreeing with someone should be reserved for frivolous things, like opinions on movies or whether cats are better than dogs and vice versa. Voting for a candidate whom you’ve deliberately stated to be a lying, thieving, corrupt killer and human rights violator is not up for debate. When your politics negatively affects real people’s lives, to expect respect is to set yourself up for disappointment.

The mature thing to do is not sweeping dangerous politics under the rug to save a friendship, it’s understanding that people who aren’t willing to educate themselves aren’t worth keeping. If her friend wasn’t going to listen no matter what Cora would post and share to help inform her, Cora had no reason to keep her within her social realm.

With that, Cora let her finger over the unfriend button a little while longer, in reminiscence of the good old days, and said goodbye.C Illustration by Jayson Elvie G. Ty

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Kuris-Kuris

Read the full online version of this issue at bit.ly/AYStarter2021 or at www.thecrusaderpublication.ph

CRU ARTPIPS ni Pao

Dear Ali,

Dear Ate Charot, Itago na lang ko sa pangalang Ali, kay anad naman ko itago na lang pirme. Dili si Prince Ali Ababwa kay pang alipin ra daw akong itsura. Pero oo ate, parehas kos kahimtang ni Ali sa nukos nga dula nga pirme nalang ga-dulaan ug gina-take advantage sa mga dzaddy— este mga gwapo— este mga manipulative nga tao sakong life parihas ni Sangwoo, uwu! Alangan te Char, na shooketh kayo ko! Dugay nami pero karon pa kos iyang sikreto nga: DDS SIYA!! OMG? Mas sakit pamani nga plot twist kaysa reveal nga buhi pas Il-nam uy! Imagine after lima ka years makabalo ko nga Dingdong Dantes Supporter diay akong palang-lang? Di nako matanggap!!! Sa tanan tao, ngano si Dingdong man, ngano dili na lang gyud si Derek Ramsayop or si Daniel Padaplin or bisan man lang ug si Donny Gipaninglan? Pero DDS gyud siya. Unsaern ko man ni Ate Charot? Masalba ko pa ba ang among relaysh??? Pls respect po.

Ka Ali-ngasa ba sa imong sitwasyon. Pero gurl, simple lang akong ikatambag nimo: say ciao to your pamilya, change your pangalan, get into your red hair phase, dayon ikyas nas murica oie!

Ayaw na’g paramdam balik. Charot! Don’t panic muna kay wala’y kaugmaon ang relasyon nga wala’y communication. Sa kadaghang tawo sa Pinas, di gyud na malikayan ang pagkalat sa mga Dingdong pec size conspiracy videos. Akong maikaingon lang nimo karon kay it’s better to be late than ice candy for sale. In short, may pag-asa pa yarn! Sit down sa mong duha, sip some tea, paminawa kung ngano naa siyay Daddy Dingdong issues. Tapos be open gyud mamsh, not your legs, but your mind. Educate him when needed ug ipagawas ang mga resibo sizt aron mas convincing. Kung di man maminaw, ReFFort for Child Abuse! Dili man worth 46 billion won ang prize kung makamata siyas kamatuoran, at least makatulog kag hapsay knowing nga di ka kamangan ug DDS. CHAROT! It’s up to you bitaw dzai oy, ayaw na sayangi ang five years kay naay uban di gani kaabot ug New Year. Wa ko nag ingon nga ako na ha... basta dzai, follow your brain, not your heart!

ACROSS

KURISword

In 1985, _______________ rate was at 12.6%. _______________: The Ride Back Home UP Cebu PolSci Professor OYDC Co-Chairperson Chester____________.

Various personalities filed for a Certificate of ___________for the upcoming 2022 Election 14 Computer Studies Student Council President 15 _________ 2020 Olympics 04 05 7 9 13

ni madame igit cholalat

0DOWN 01 The subjective state of feeling 02 _______ affirms this by saying how difficult it was to absorb the work environment given the limits of a screen.

03 A forensic specialist and one of the Jesuit Priest who investigates the series of murders of young boys in the slums of Payatas 06 SCAP National Convener Ken Paolo ____________0 8 The president who declared Martial law on September 23, 1972 10 Student Council _____________ of the Philippines (SCAP).

11 Project Head of the Virtual Manresa Days 2021 12 In the Zayas Landfill, Carlo Paalam worked as a _______ at the age of 7.

TO JOIN: Scan this KuriSearch with your answers and submit the soft copy of your entry to thecrusaderpub@gmail.com with your full name, course and year, and contact number. Lucky participants will receive limited edition collectables.

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Vol. 48 No. 1 November 2021

KURISCOPE KIARRA

ni madame igit cholalat Wazzap mga ka-cheka, musta naman mo? Dugay-dugay nasad ta wala nakacheka kang Madame. Dili na nako padugayon ang akong cheka uy, kabalo ko excited mo kay hapit na December nasad. Naa ra inyuhang kapalaran karun mga memsh... Christmas Edition!

Aquarius (Ang Disyembre ko ay Malungkot) Taysa, maoy man ka karung December! Ayaw kabalaka kay naay plot twist mahitabo nimo bag-o magend ang tuig, hintay-hintay nalang mamshie.

KIARRA

Lucky Song: Miss kita kung Christmas

Aries (Whenever I see...)

Aguy-aguy sama sa linya ni Jose Mari Chan na “I remember the child in the manger as he sleeps”, unta dili nimo mahinumduman imohang ex. Move on na!

SHAUN

KYLA

Lucky Song: Christmas in our Hearts

Cancer (Don’t make me fall in love again if you won’t be here) Marshiecakes, undangi na nang Christmas Song ni Ariana Grande dira, ginapaasa lang ka niya ug ayaw na ug hulat kay dili na siya mubalik.

Lucky Song: Santa Tell Me

Capricorn (I don’t care about the presents) Sana all dili gina-mind ang mga regalo karong pasko, pero remind lang tika i-mind puhon ang election. I-mind ang kaugmaon sa Pilipinas! Vote wisely, char!

Lucky Song: All I want for Christmas is you

Gemini (It’s the most beautiful time of the year) Mao ba, kaog talaba! Yes it’s the most beautiful time of the year, sama sa giingon ni JB, pero ngano wala pa gihapo’y gaabot nga gift sa akoa? Maskin siya na lang, charot!

Lucky Song: Mistletoe

Leo (My idea of a perfect christmas is to spend it with you) Perfect kaayo ang kanta ni Jose Mari Chan uy, perfect man jowd ang Christmas, unta perfect sad ang panahon para muabot na si da one. #CuddleWeather Lucky Song: Perfect Christmas

KYLA

Libra (Nadarama mo na ba ang lamig ng hangin) Mao na jud ni na panahon nga cold imong pasko kay sama sa giingon ni Yeng na “lamig ng hangin”, yes ing-ana imong lovelife karong pasko, mas tugnaw pa jud sa hangin. #SMP

ED

Lucky Song: Pasko Sa Pinas

Pisces (Kung mawawala ka sa piling ko sinta) Asa naman siya uy, sinta ko asa na you? Pagkasakit ba sa kanta ni Gary V. Hanap-hanap kita, ay joke, wala man diay ka’y lovelife.

Lucky Song: Pasko Na Sinta Ko

KIARRA

Taurus (Muling makita at makasama ka sa araw ng pasko) Pasko na naman, ngunit wala ka pa… Asa diay ka? Char, tuod oy, unta mubalik na siya sa imoha. I believe in second chance jud mamsh.

Lucky Song: Sana Ngayong Pasko

Virgo (...But the very next day you gave it away) Pagka-nice man uy, katong last christmas gihatag nimo sa iyaha tanan apil imong kasing kasing, pero pagkaugma ngano nawala siya sa imoha. Paramdam naman diyan siszt.

Lucky Song: Last Christmas

Sagittarius (Ibigay mo na!)

Sisszymars, ma-realize na nimo nga dili dapat ihatag tanan, okay lang ang Christmas Bonus pero imong love sa iyaha?

Mag-depende ra jud na. Christmas Bonus lang ang ating inaasahan, dili ang mali na tao para lahat okey na okey!

HAPI

Lucky Song: Christmas Bonus

Crusader

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Scorpio (Why don’t you give love on Christmas Day) Ipangutana pa ba na why don’t you give love on Christmas day? Mareng, everyday we give love maskin dili pasko. Love love love lang all the way.

Lucky Song: Give Love on Christmas Day

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