Moreno remains mayor despite dismissal order by Tatiana L. Maligro
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espite the Department of Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) declaration on February 6, Hon. Oscar Moreno is still Cagayan de Oro’s mayor. In a press conference Moreno and his lawyer Atty. Dale Mordeno conducted on February 8, Mordeno debunked speculation that Vice Mayor Rainier “Kikang” Uy was Cagayan de Oro’s new mayor. “Mayor Moreno is in the office, and he will continue to be until his term ends in June 2019,” Mordeno assured. The aforementioned speculation grew when DILG-10’s Regional Director Arnel Agabe served the 24th dismissal order the Ombudsman filed against Moreno on February 5. “We have also served a copy of the documents we have prepared to inform
Vice Mayor Kikang Uy that we have already implemented the Ombudsman’s decision,” Agabe said. Although the dismissal order was served by DILG on February 5, the Court of Appeals-Mindanao’s approval of Moreno’s request to consolidate all his cases deemed the dismissal order moot and academic. This means that the order no longer has “practical value,” as per GR (General Rule) 193592. The dismissal order was rooted on the 24 administrative cases filed against Moreno revolving around the lease of heavy equipment to Equiprent Corporation without public bidding during his term as Misamis Oriental’s governor from October 2009-October 2010. Contracts signed
amounted to nearly Php 3,000,000. In a report by the Commission on Audit (COA), these leases were considered “irregular.” Aside from the lack of public bidding, necessary documents required by RA 9184 (Government Procurement Reform Act) were also absent. The Ombudsman then filed 24 cases of graft against Moreno, as well as similar cases against three other officials. Moreno pushed to have all cases consolidated—a legal term that entails the matter at hand is addressed as one whole case instead of many by one justice— since all parties and facts involved in the 24 cases were similar. In Moreno’s press release, 23 of these cases will be transferred to Court of Appeals-Manila for
further action. Moreno addressed this in his press conference by saying that the said audits were not yet complete during the time of the controversy. “The regional director of COA had said very clearly in the review that he made that it is inevitably clear that public services had been rendered,” he said.C Sources: ‘Teleserye’ unfolds again at City Hall (http://www. sunstar.com.ph/)
TRAIN Law prompts changes in canteen pricing, soda inventory by Ana Patrizia Pilar R. Arcayera and Lorenzo A. Botavara
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oughly a month after President Rodrigo Duterte’s signing of Republic Act 10963 or the Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law, prices for carbonated drinks at the Magis Student Center have increased proportionate to the hike in market price. Twleve (12) oz. bottles and “mismo”¬ sized Coca-Cola and Pepsi products such as Mountain Dew, Coke, Pepsi, Tropicana, and Minute Maid have increased by Php 2.003.00 while 1-Litre bottles saw close to a Php 10.00 increase. Despite the popularity of these drinks, the price hike has affected the number of customers who are willing to pay extra for these beverages, as observed by Xavier University Community Multi-Purpose Cooperative (XUCMPC) Head Nelda G. Umahoy. In response to the reduced
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patronage of softdrinks, XUCMPC has been ordering fewer quantities from suppliers, as predicted by the law of supply and demand. “Pag price increase na gyud nga gikan sa company (supplier), ang sa una nga 100 cases, mga 70 nalang,” she remarks. However, the overall impact of the TRAIN Law on the Cooperative has been minimal so far. According to XUCMPC Chairman for Products and Marketing Aristotle Maniquiz, the numerous orders from their catering services have mitigated whatever negative effects of the price increase. XUCMPC’s catering not only serves food for events and offices within XU, but accepts orders from outside institutions and offices, including government agencies. To name some, PAG-IBIG (Pagtutulungan sa Kinabukasan: Ikaw, Bangko, Industria at Gobyerno), SSS (Social Security System),
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and the Archbishop’s Palace are regular clients of the Cooperative, says Maniquiz. Railroad to advancement Tax Reform Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) is the first installment of the Comprehensive Tax Reform Program (CTRP) planned by President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration to create a simpler, just, and more efficient tax collection and distribution for the benefit of the Filipinos. The following are the changes brought by TRAIN: lowering of the personal income tax (PIT); simplified estate, donor’s and the value-added taxes (VAT); increase of the excise tax on petroleum products and automobiles; and the addition of excise tax on Sugar-Sweetened Beverages (SSB). The SSB excise tax aims to reduce the
consumption of SSBs. This measure is also meant to encourage consumption of healthier products. Products covered by SSB excise tax under TRAIN law are sweetened juice drinks, sweetened tea, all carbonated beverages with added sugar, flavored water, energy drinks, sports drinks, and other non-alcoholic beverages that contain added sugar. The budgeting of TRAIN has been tagged as anti-poor because of the revenue’s 70 percent allocation on the government’s “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure program, along with a budget for military infrastructure, sports facilities for public schools, and potable drinking water in public places. Meanwhile, only 30 percent of the TRAIN revenue will go to social sector projects and social services such
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Aristeo Raphael Marbella III:
Empowering Democracy By Winona Roselle Serra
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ormer Students’ Rights and Welfare (STRAW) Commissioner and third year Philosophy major Aristeo Raphael “Paeng” T. Marbella III is running under the banner of the Union of Students for the Advancement of Democracy (USAD) as Central Student Government (CSG) President in Botar Atenista 2018. His platform of governance, ROSES, focuses on student representation and services, and targets three priority projects: constitutional change, political education, and the implementation of research-based projects. Advocating for constitutional reform Marbella, with the help of USAD-XU Vice Presidential Candidate Vench Clark Mier, proposes to amend and reform the current 13-year old CSG constitution since “naay mga certain provisions that can be interpreted to have a lot of loopholes.” In addition, he says that there is also a “vagueness in the structure of the CSG wherein the President is just able to create mga offices and departments as he or she likes, instead of it being mandated by the Constitution.” In order to fulfill this project, the CSG Vice President will head a special constitutional committee comprised of representatives from political parties and those they deem knowledgeable about the Constitution and laws.
Political literacy “Political Education is directed towards the maturing of the political landscape and political thought of the students,” he says. It will consist of a series of modular sessions. Participants who complete a module will then be sent on a social immersion with marginalized sectors. They will also be tasked to conduct projects that will shed light on the realities of the least advantaged in society. The topics will include, but are not limited to exposing the participants to the various political ideologies in the world, and the different ways on how to run the government. “Didto ma-widen ang perspective sa mga students [on] why Xavier stands for what it stands for — based on political ideologies and Jesuit na mga value,” he affirms. Revisiting Inclusivity “Research Based Projects will be implemented to strengthen the evidence of the necessity of particular projects the CSG should be implementing,” details Marbella. An example of this is the evaluation of the offices of the XU administration, such as the Registrar, Finance Office, Physical Plant Offices, Clinic, and others. “Kung mugawas na students are dissatisfied with the service given by the University, the CSG is given strong evidence, strong backing that there must be something done by the administration to improve these facilities,” he states.
They also aim to cater to the needs of particular minority groups in the University such as the Muslim and LGBTQ+ students. Projects created will then be based on the results of a study to be conducted by the CSG. *** Aiming to address the concerns of the student body, CSG is obliged to prioritize projects that benefit the majority. However, for Paeng, focusing on the welfare of minority groups is just as crucial to the development of the whole in strengthening democracy. In comparison to last year, his current platform was created with the help of his political party. “We really worked hard together to criticize; to scrutinize, so that we can provide a platform that is relevant and something that is mao pu’y kinahanglanon sa current nga student body. […] The way in which you can attain your vision is strengthened when you are running with candidates that have the same vision in mind.”C
Vench Clark Mier: Self-Discovered Servant Leader By Khalid M. Bashier
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n times when most of the youth can seem too passive, third year Chemical Engineering student Vench Clark Mier refuses to stay static, especially when the future of the marginalized is at stake. Running for Central Student Governemnt (CSG) Vice President under the Union of Students for the Advancement of Democracy-XU (USAD-XU) in this year’s Botar Atenista 2018, Mier believes he can contribute to the betterment of the CSG and commits to render finer services to the community. His Inner Journey Mier’s passion to serve began when he engaged in Ateneo Good Governance and Leadership Academy (AGGLA) during his second year. “Everything started there: the workshops, the immersions and the trainings to enhance my leadership skills,” he recalls. His engagement with AGGLA opened his eyes to the plight of the marginalized and the minorities. He realizes that “somehow, we need to help those sectors. Kay ayha ko pa na-realize na makarelate ko sa ilaha. Because I, myself, am somehow marginalized [as well].” Mier was also a delegate at the 2016 Philippine Model Congress (PMC). The PMC is a model of the Philippine government’s legislative process wherein participants will simulate congressional
debates, engage in workshops, and learn from transformative guest speakers. The conference hopes to give delegates the opportunity to share what matters to them. He shares that he found his heart in legislation, therefore increasing his passion to serve. “If I’ll be the future Vice President, I’ll create more platforms for these sectors to raise their concerns, and might as well give them representation in the legislative party,” he states. He has also experience being the current XU- Ateneo de Cagayan DOST Scholars’ Organization (XADSO) President, former Oro Youth Development Council (OYDP) Secretary and Organisasyon sa mga Nagkahiusang Estudyante sa Cagayan de Oro (ONE-CDO) Ambassador. Envisioning Reformation Mier’s platform revolves around strengthening the institutions and organizations in the University. This includes the co-curricular and extracurricular organizations, the student councils, and especially the CSG. “One essential part of my platform is the enhanced representation for the underrepresented sectors in our school: the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transsexual Queer (LGBTQ+) community, working students, teenage parents,” Mier enumerates. For him, the working students’ and scholars’ concerns are in need of urgent
action from the student government. He is no stranger to the challenges they face every day. Being a scholar and part-time tutor, he considers himself to be one of both as he tutors to remedy some of his financial burden. One point of his platform is the holding of public debates to promote discourse and critical thinking. This will enable students to reach common ground and draw conclusions on crucial topics, achieving a higher level of understanding. In addition to this, he encourages his fellow students to get involved, engage themselves politically, and not only focus on school issues, but also be a catalyst for change in community development. *** “The youth are the future of our nation,” is a timeless statement Mier keeps in mind. With many issues and problems occurring in society, he realizes the significance of student engagement. This USAD-XU disciple of legislation invites all not just to start talking about these issues: “Let us try to address them.” C
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Jo Angelic Jacobo: Thirst for service By Mary Therese P. Mole
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unning for the position of President under the banner of Alyansang Atenista (AA), former Atenista Ako Movement (AAM) President Jo Angelic Jacobo is ready to take her leadership experiences to the next level. Since Junior High School, Jacobo has already been in AA. For her, the values and pillars of AA: Makabayan, Makatao, Makadiyos, Makaestudyante truly shaped her to be a leader with principle. Now, it is time to deliver that brand of service to XU.
SAMA platform Jacobo abbreviated her platform AMA, by which she also calls “SAMA”, with S standing for Strengthening of Sectoral Representation These are what she and her running partner, Joshua Christian Dael have in mind for the student body. Grounding her platform on a survey done in January, Jacobo hopes to amplify support for students by pushing for free access to sports facilities such as covered courts and the gymnasium, so long as there are no classes or prior reservations. She mentions that a number of student athletes who answered the survey have complained about the inaccessibility of sports facilities and the fees needed for reservations. Secondly, Jacobo envisions for a varsity-friendly student government. She plans to create a sports committee designed primarily to promote, campaign, and spearhead support for the varsities
through posters and social media. The sports committee will collaborate with the University Athletics Office (UAO) and the different offices involved in the support of XU’s student athletes Thirdly, Jacobo targets accessible student services. This includes the removal of rental fees for all academic materials in the CSG office such as calculators, bibles, and projectors. Instead, the students will only have to leave their identification cards upon renting. This way, more students can avail of the rentals. At the same time, CSG is more open to students. To magnify student concerns, Jacobo hopes to focus on the centralization of governing bodies in the CSG and the student councils. “Through the centralization kay bali through legislation pud ni siya nga i-push namo sa CSG na mag reach out mi sa colleges na dapat ang ilahang departments kay in line sa departments sulod sa CSG.” This way, concerns reach the grassroots level and go through a more systematic process, explains Jacobo. Should she be elected, Jacobo intends to implement a regular talk named, “Wednesdays with JoJo” to answer non-academic concerns, issues, and questions of the students. They will also be conducting “STRAWnger XU” in which they will be implementing Students’ Rights and Welfare (STRAW) Week at least twice per semester to address academic concerns. “This is to ensure that wala’y ma-violate na mga na mandate sa Magna Carta para pud ma-aware ang students na naa sila’y rights and responsibilities
within themselves and within the campus.” expresses Jacobo. Finally, Jacobo aims to improve information dissemination through the Amplify Project. It is a communication program and scheme under CSG’s Department of Communications where announcements will be sent to all students via text message or the Ka-CSG mobile. Partnerships with network companies are still being made. “Murag existing plan siya sa current admin pero we highly believe na pag ma-realize siya next year kay mas sayon na makuha sa students ang mga information,” says Jacobo. Should the partnership fall through, the administration will opt for a prepaid sim card with budget from the Department of Communications every month, which is only to be used in urgent times. They will also be executing intensive room to room campaigns to personally reach out to students. *** Through AA, Jacobo has gained enough experience manning executing roles to serve as her edge. “I thirst for service. It’s an inclination. Gapangiaton gyud sa akong self.” Leaving a message to the student body, she says: “It’s not that you should vote for me, but vote for my plans. […] The plans I make serve as a backbone sa kung unsa nga administration akong dad-on sa future.” C
Joshua Christian Dael: Voicing the unheard By Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas
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aking the helm in the run for the Vice Presidency of the Central Student Government (CSG) under Alyansang Atenista is third year Development Communication student Joshua Christian Dael. Having started his leadership journey in high school, Dael is familiar with the responsibilities that come with top roles. In high school, his presidency garnered him a number of leadership awards, and translated later on to key positions in college as the first year representative of the Development Communication Society until he became Vice President in A.Y 2016-2017. Though he resigned from the position due to personal reasons, he took on other roles throughout the years as the Associate Director for the Department of Sports and Recreation, and a PeaceTech Ambassador, among others. As he nears his last year in college, he envisions providing an open and collaborative government that will accept partnerships with inside and outside entities in line with Jacobo’s SAMA platform. One of Dael’s promises for the vice presidency is to offer a responsive government that highlights grassroots representation in catering to the needs of the student body. Tapping year-level representatives through consultative
dialogues and year-level Kamustahan is one way Dael hopes to carry this out. Admittedly, Dael is a new face in legislation, confessing that the functions of the executive and legislative branches have vast differences that he’s still familiarizing himself with. Nevertheless, Dael claims he could give a new flavor to legislation that would help people understand its importance. “My vision is to have an open legislation that people would know the importance [of it]. Mafeel nila how important it is when we lobby our issues and concerns to the student government, and eventually, the student government could help us lobby it to the administration. Hopefully and eventually, it would be fixed,” he says. Seeing as legislation is not an entirely familiar term to the students, he aims to rebrand legislation in a way that they understand how they can contribute to the legislative process. Three major points comprise Dael’s platform: extension of sectoral representation, addition of Constitutional provisions, and implementation of communication programs. For sectoral representation, he aims to push for underrepresented sectors such as working students, student athletes, and student assistants to have a seat in the Directorate, the highest policy-
making body in the CSG. He also hopes to innovate the year-level Kamustahan into a form that would help centralize the sharing of concerns between the Office of the Vice President, student councils, and co- and extra-curricular organizations. Moreover, while a constitutional reform is ongoing, Dael still wishes to add provisions on the Magna Carta for scholars and student athletes. Lastly, Dael thinks that effective communication programs may help in making CSG more accessible to the people in addressing student concerns. Molded to be a leader early on, Dael’s brand of leadership has been grounded on principle—something worth noting in an aspiring legislator. “I always go back to the thing that disturbs me the most. [...]When you feel like you can help other people, ngano dili man? We need to step up for them, because you know from yourself na kaya man nimo to help these people.”C
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EDITORIAL
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Publishers Subscribing Students of Xavier University
Illustration by Rigel Kent T. Flores
Editorial Board Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas Editor in Chief Lorenzo A. Botavara Associate Editor Lynette L. Tuvilla Design Editor Harmony Kristel D. Balino Managing Editor Mary Therese P. Mole News Editor Winona Roselle Serra Campus Features Editor Merryane Rose S. Bacud External Features Editor Jayson Elvie G. Ty Graphic Design and Layout Editor* Jinky M. Mejica Photography Editor Rizalyka Joanne M. Waminal Freehand Editor Finance Officers Anna Jamela S. Balindong Auditor Tisha C. Abejo Senior Finance Manager Ana Patrizia Pilar R. Arcayera Junior Finance Manager (Trainee)
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The whispers of democracy
he annual election period is commonly evident as candidates and campaign banners are seen across campus. However, the fact that only 38.50 percent and 44.61 percent of the XU population participated in the last two elections respectively, could only exhibit a lack of student participation. Indeed, it’s easy to wonder why students take voting lightly and are apathetic about it. There seems to be no band-aid solution to the measly voting turnout perhaps apart from offering free food or milktea to lure voters. Throughout the course of AY 2017-2018, CSG’s schedule has been packed with activities and programs; some of which were unforeseeable and were thus not part of their General Plan of Activities (GPOA) such as the XU Tabang Marawi. For this, the CSG had to allocate a portion of its monthly contingency fund to aid in the relief operations. In July, the University-wide General Assembly themed #XUMagislandia took place, followed by The Xavier Cup in September. Though not totally organized by the CSG, the Xavier Days welcomed thousands of people and showcased Xavier Ateneo pride. The Student Government continues to post about must-knows such as cut-off of classes, suspension of the uniform policy, University announcements, and the like. It has been functioning in both major and minor activities, and has sought student inputs and suggestions
on social media and via feedback surveys disseminated through Google Forms for events such as the Xavier Cup in efforts to improve next year’s edition of such events. Despite the CSG’s efforts to reach out to the student body, The Xavier Cup 2017 has unfortunately warranted negative feedback that included confusion in certain guidelines, and went as far as having organizers and dissatisfied competitors settling matters in closed-door meetings. There also seems to be no publicized resolution of the SBM female restroom vandalisms. #StrawlessXU was an appealing move towards an environmentalfriendly campus but a good number of food stalls in the Magis Canteen still distribute plastic straws. Additionally, alternatives to plastic straws seem to only be offered by the XU Biophilic Society. Recently, CSG has been silent on social issues and developments in the ever-interesting political landscape of the country, save for the controversial killing of Kian Delos Reyes last year. From the outside, all aforementioned shortcomings would indicate a non-excelling student government. However, what’s overlooked is that this school year, much of CSG’s efforts have been allocated to the strengthening of student services. For one, earlier into the school year, they hosted the “Barugi imong katungod!” where students were reminded about their
OPINION
By Harmony Kristel D. Balino
Staff Writers Maita Angelica S. Arenas (Contributor) Khalid M. Bashier (Trainee) Ar-Raffi C. Macaumbos (Trainee) Tatiana L. Maligro Jc Marie E. Salas (Trainee) Staff Artists Maria Monica L. Borja (Trainee) Aleina C. Buenavista (Trainee) Kurt Anthony B. Chan (Trainee) Arnel John A. Dayata (Trainee) Jomard Sam A. Delos Reyes (Contributor) Shack Gil A. Estrada (Contributor) June Benedict C. Laplana Karla Mae C. Romero (Trainee) Jolrean M. Salao (Trainee) Moderator Mr. Stephen Roy J. Pedroza *Interim For contributions, please address your articles and/or comments to: TheCrusader Publication Office, Rm. 302, Student Center Bldg, Xavier University 9000, Cagayan de Oro City Circulation: 2,500 copies
February 2018 | Vol. 43 No. 5 Layout by Lynette L. Tuvilla and Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas
Untimely Announcements
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Au Maite
academic rights. The Kita-kita ta: a year level converse-session was an initiative taken by the Office of the Vice President to reach out to every college through elected year level representatives. Partnering with Amnesty International in August for a call to action for the student body to take part in the University’s mission towards justice for all was a direct action in attaining the goal. In addition to organizing these seminars and forums, the CSG has also established the A-Mail, where through a provided link, academic concerns can be addressed directly. Though, efforts by the CSG to serve and lead the students exist, what needs to be seen are projects that could be branded as their profound contribution to the student body. At present time, the current term of the CSG is easily overshadowed by and compared to past administrations, where initiatives and projects spoke for the student government’s presence in the student body. It is imperative that upon entering the transition period of the new student government, voters must scrutinize the outgoing CSG to be able to recognize aspects that need to be improved upon and acknowledge those that are impactful enough to be sustained. Acknowledging the need to amplify the students’ voice is integral in putting the right leader in office for the next schoolyear. With CSG’s many departments, there’s a way to proceed without leaving other sectors behind in forwarding development.C
Managers Gene Gerard G. Verona Human Resource & Office Manager Jean E. Abarquez Circulation Manager* Khristine Marjorie L. Quiblat Video Productions Director Winona Roselle Serra Online Accounts Manager Andrew Angelo S. Barrientos Junior Computer Systems Manager (Trainee)
t was a “signal no.2!” scenario on February 12. The radio was blasting with live PAGASA reports; the Governor’s office had suspended classes in all levels; households had begun prepping for another possible flashflood; and XU students were awaiting an official announcement from the President’s office to follow the City Hall’s suspension order. On February 13, I was already at the hospital by 5:45AM. Funnily, a duty-mate arrived in khaki shorts, cotton t-shirt, and slippers instead of the all-white duty uniform for boys. “Hadlok kaayo na ma-pitaan ang uniform, bes!” he explained happily as he took out his folded uniform in waterproof bags. Living in an area where taxis don’t usually pass by at 5:00 AM, he had to take a habal-habal, and risk being covered in mud. All thirteen student nurses attended to two major operations. We only knew about the suspension by 9:30 AM when the operations
weren’t even nearly done. Being second scrub, I was lucky enough to just discard gloves and leave. However, the first scrub – who had to initially submit to all sterility precautions, scrub into the sterile area of the operation, and witness the operation firsthand– had to scrub out. We went home to prepare for the anticipated bagyo. A copy of University Memo # 1314045 was circulating online detailing the Guidelines and Suspension of Classes and Work during Weather Disturbances. The memorandum states that classes in the tertiary level will be automatically suspended once PAGASA declares signal no. 3 or higher. However, the City Mayor’s office suspension declaration precedes the weather bureau’s announcement. Meaning, once the City Mayor’s office declares a suspension despite a lower weather signal, the declared class levels will be suspended. Still, some instructors only follow official University
declaration of class suspension, where also nursing hospital/community duties are also decided on. So goes the famous saying, “Prevention is better than cure” or the adjunct “Better to be safe than sorry”. Indeed, in times of weather disturbances, we have to take matters into our own hands and decide on our own safety. Still, I am convinced that adjustments have to be made on the decision-making speed regarding class or work suspension. Ideally, class suspension declaration should be made once PAGASA raises the signal for the safety of not only the students but also the instructors and the staff of the University. We need not wait for a casualty to happen in the midst of a threatening weather disturbance to improve on decision-making and dissemination.C
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CDO agencies approve new scholarship code ordinance by Merryane Rose S. Bacud
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hrough the combined efforts of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Department of Education (DepEd), Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the new CDO scholarship code ordinance was approved on January 10 to strengthen and reinforce the academic financial assistance programs in the city. With education as one of the key components in the strategic development of CDO, realigning and reforming current scholarship programs has become a priority of the city government. To respond to this need, the executive department invited the mentioned agencies, as well as representatives from private colleges, scholarship officers, city councilors, out-of-school youth, and industry leaders to a series of stakeholders’ workshops and consultations. The outputs and insights collected served as a basis in the formulation of the ordinance, which would embody the institutional framework of the city’s scholarship program.
Guided by the experience of the College Scholarship Program, the code has now expanded to five scholarship offers and has added other institutional layers for better review and implementation. After more than five consultations, the technical working group presented a working draft that details the five types of scholarships: 1. Performance-based for academically excellent students. This refers to the scholarship grant covering the whole duration of tertiary education and whose course is the personal choice of the grantee. They shall likewise receive a stipend. 2. Income-based type for the financially challenged by deserving students. This type refers to the scholarship grant covering the whole duration of tertiary education and whose course options are identified by the Scholarship Board in accordance with the demands of the industry. They will also receive financial assistance.
SCC Rules of Court of faces second revision in A.Y 2017-2018
By Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas with reports from Lorenzo A. Botavara
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espite being officially revised in the first semester of A.Y 2017-2018 and being aptly dubbed as the 2017 Rules of Court (RoC), the document as implemented under the Supreme Constitutional Court (SCC) is undergoing its second revision this year. This comes even after a complete overhaul of the 2011-2012 Rules of Court that grounded the document on the RoC of the Philippines, and allowed the establishment of the Integrated Bar of the Central Student Government which detailed a Bar Exam requirement for applicants, judges, and justices. The 2017 Rules of Court was implemented starting August 2017. Currently, the 2017 RoC is undergoing revisions for the 2018 RoC. This entails that the document will undergo two revisions under a single administration. The Rules of Court is a document separate from the CSG Constitution and is considered as a judiciary exclusive that specifies the rules, policies, and processes of the judiciary branch of the CSG. This is primarily handled and facilitated by the SCC. With an existing 2011-201208 RoC, the current SCC overhauled the document to clarify certain details such as the contents and process of a complaint, exact time provisions, and guidelines as to who can serve as representatives in court. The 2017 RoC removed criminal provisions and fines, and added Canons of Judiciary Members’ Ethics, and the Canons of Student Legal Counsel Ethics to the document. Revision of the Rules undergoes a simple process and requires only one session with the SCC. It is presented to all members of the Court, which is primarily comprised of
the Chief Justice and Associate Justices from each student council in the University, and is then up for voting. Though the first revision should have encapsulated the needed changes, Chairman of the Revision of the Rules of Court Klahrinz Catubig said that the wrong file was sent which still contained unnecessary provisions adopted from the RoC of the Philippines such as terms involving marriage, detainment, and fines. “It was done in a matter of months. It’s really based on the Philippine Rules of Court. Then we decided to remove the special cases. I think it’s partly my fault kay the first time I think gipasa nako tong Rules of Court kay sayop na version akong napasa because I was not there during the session at the time. I was in Cebu. So wala nako na reread. I thought I sent the right file. [...] But I’m still working to improve,” he explaineds. The 2018 volume of the RoC , which will be the second revision this academic year, and will basically be the 2017 RoC with its formatting smoothened out, and some vague provisions improved upon. However, it will be will be the first hardbound book exclusive to the judiciary branch of the Central Student Government and will contain approximately 142 pages, with some vague provisions improved upon. Previous hard copies of the RoC were less refined documents in terms of compilation as they were mostly thick stacks of bondpaper clipped together. As of the moment, the SCC has removed instant-runoff voting as a regular voting system. C
3. Graduate course type. This refers to the scholarship grant given to deserving individuals who shall pursue graduate studies as defined in this Ordinance. 4. Technical -Vocational Assistance. This type, on the other hand, refers to the scholarship grant given to deserving individuals enrolled in technicalvocational courses as provided by this code. The grantee shall likewise receive financial assistance. 5. Research Grants refer to the financial assistance given for the thesis or dissertation of individuals in the graduate and postgraduate levels whose study will benefit CDO. There will be a Scholarship Board overseeing the management of the program and reviewing the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) entered into by the city and the partner academic institutions. A Scholarship Review committee was also established to periodically review
accepted scholars and to handle the partner institutions’ reviews on individual cases. Lastly, a Scholarship Office housed within the Cagayan de Oro Social Welfare and Development (CSWD) will serve as the primary implementing agency of the program. Through a MOA, the school and the city will agree on the number of slots, the screening and examination process, the grade maintenance, as well as other conditions. According to Atty. Ernesto Neri, the ordinance provides a wider space to allow each partner academic institution to play a primary role in its implementation. “It will no longer involve technical aspects of scholarship management but only facilitate and channel resources to the private institutions,” he said.C
Cinemagis celebrates ten years of featuring short films by Khalid Bashier
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t has been a decade since Cinemagis started providing students and aspiring filmmakers a venue to tell their stories. This year, these creators tackled many common themes such as peace, hope, human rights, and other pressing issues. They also shared their personal perspectives and understanding of life. The screening of the entries ran from January 24 to 27 at the XU Little Theatre and SM City CDO Cinema 1. The 16 entries were separated into 4 categories: Senior, Junior, Special Citation, and Special Film Features, and were then judged based on their quality. The following entries and their respective directors underwent the screening process: Simulacrum by Christian Alan Toring, Lantern by Ryujie Abejuella, Kita Nakita by Juan Miguel Fernandez, Isig-katawo by Carl Hudson Mabanag, Baslayan by Reyan Christian Amacna, Pa Dyak by Leo Marie Fabre, 7:30 by Bezalel Ian Philip Barroso, Hiraya by John Roel Cabana, Tuldok Kuwit by John Rey Laure, Venxel Geno, Anna Abregan, Angel Alquizar, and Syrine Duazo. In the Senior Category, these entries went through the screening process: Ayo-ayo by Reena Dunque, 5:12 by Adrian Rey Manapil, Rey Cadeliña, Edwin Delos Santos Jr., and Grace Salvador, Sikad by July Ilagan, Kabuang ug Kasakit by Angelo Dabbay, Between the Lines by Kenneth Sabijon, Good night by Tat Soriano, and Redempsyon by Edmund Telmo. In the awarding ceremony at SM City CDO Cinema 1 on January 27, Edmund
Telmo’s “Redempsyon” won 1st Place for the Best Short Film under the senior category. Reena Dunque’s undergraduate thesis film “Ayo-Ayo” bagged 2nd place and Tat Soriano’s “Good Night” walked away with 3rd. In addition, Leo Marie Fabre received SM Choice award for “PA DYAK”. According to Cathelyn Adajar from the XU English Department, a good film has a message to convey and easily attracts the attention of the audience. “I think it [PA DYAK] won SM Choice Award because it’s about family, and it had an appeal to the masses,” she opined. *** With Cinemagis as a platform for filmmakers and students with different stories to tell, it paves the way for Filipinos to learn and understand different cultures and identities. “Their dreams and passion [are] inspiring [sic], and these become a foundation for a promising career. Whatever the results, their entries may someday become educational tools that could give viewers hindsight about what Northern Mindanao is in the lens of these filmmakers,” emphasized Development Communication alumnus Angelo Lorenzo. As Cinemagis celebrates its 10th year, Panahugpong, under Arts month, also commemorates and marks its 10th year in promoting creative and imaginative works. Cinemagis is organized by Xavier Center for Culture and Arts (XCCA) under Xavier Ateneo’s Mission and Ministry cluster and with Hobart Savior as the current director.C
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CDRRMD claims ‘zero casualties’ for Typhoon Vinta in CDO by Ar-Raffi C. Macaumbos
DEVASTATION. A part of Barangay Carmen was partly submerged after Typoon Vinta on Decemeber 22, 2017.
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Typhoon said to be stronger than Tropical Storm Sendong crossed over the island on December 22, 2017. Thankfully, Typhoon Vinta wreaked less havoc in the city than its 2011 counterpart but it still claimed lives in some parts of Mindanao. CDO was no exception to flooding and damage to infrastructure, however, as heavy winds and rains caused the river to swell and inundate low-lying barangays such as Carmen, Macasandig, and other areas. But with the effort of the Local Government and
Council, the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Department (CDRRMD) proudly announced that the city succeeded in achieving ‘zero casualty’. According to Disaster Coordination Center Chief Engr. Cindy Sabanal, Vinta was a record-breaking typhoon. It was larger than ‘Sendong’ and even Supertyphon Pablo. With this fearsome typhoon’s arrival, CDRRMD prepared as early as December 16 – six days before its projected landfall. Sabanal said that CDRRMD was much better prepared with Vinta. This time, the
lapses that may have occurred in dealing with previous disasters were corrected. On December 21, CDRMMD activated the ‘Incident Management Team (IMT)’ which included Search and Rescue Facilitating teams to deal with casualties if needed. Meanwhile, the ‘Emergency Operation Center served as the command center of CDRRMD in monitoring the city. It also provided updates with the help of social media in disseminating information every three hours. CDRRMD Overseer Retired Colonel
AFTERMATH. Residents in Barangay Carmen gather at the Kagay-an Bridge to see the houses submerged due to Typhoon Vinta on December 22, 2017. [K.QUIBLAT]
[K.QUIBLAT]
Mario Verner Monsanto said he implemented the Red Code which indicated forced evacuation two hours before the actual overflow of water in areas near the CDO River. However, Monsanto kept in mind that bad elements such as thieves might take advantage of the situation. “The forced evacuation was designed so that we will have more time to evacuate, and at the same time, people would not lose their properties. Sino pang ang magnanakaw kung nandyan na yung tubig?” Monsanto said. He also added that they had to balance the timing of announcements in a way that people will not complain about the evacuation if the typhoon’s effects were not as severe as anticipated. CDRRMD had to establish credibility because people might not believe them if another disaster happens. Sabanal shared that the only fault in the plan was that some citizens refused to evacuate. “Unfortunately, during sa amoang recorrida together with the BFP (Bureau of Fire and Protection) and the Police, naa gyud ta’y mga igsoon nga dili gyud mang-evacuate.” She also said that those who refused to evacuate ended up calling the response team for help. Monsanto added that if it happened at night, 50 percent of the people who called for help might have died despite all efforts to prevent such a thing from happening. Monsanto stated he was not entirely happy about the stubbornness of a number of people, especially when it came to forced evacuations for safety. Nevertheless, he was glad because there were no casualties recorded. Additionally, Engr. Sabanal was proud of this achievement. “Proud ko on behalf pud sa among office. Overall, grabe gyud kaayo ni nga accomplishment,” she imparted.C
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February 2017 | Vol. 43 No. 5
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NEWS FEATURE
DTI recognizes EcoSoc as first campusbased PH consumer group by Maita Angelica S. Arenas
PURSUIT. Economic Society launches their DTI-accredited organization at AVR 1 on January 22, 2018.
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t’s] too good to be true.” Those were the words of Economics Society (EcoSoc) President Sharmine Cuizon as the co-curricular organization was accredited by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as the first ever legitimate consumer group in the Philippines under an academic institution. Being a consumer organization means that EcoSoc, under the Economics Department and United Arts and Sciences Student Council (UNITASS), is immediately part of the CDO City Price Coordinating Council. They will thus be part of the price monitoring activities of the DTI in both public and private markets and establishments. “This is a step forward to who we usually are as an org [sic],” she states. She also added that the accreditation can potentially aid the organization in carrying out and realizing its mission and vision which involves conducting activities and implementing research-borne sustainable projects for the greater good of the community. How it happened For the past few years, EcoSoc has been setting a lot of engagements with the DTI. In July, the organization applied for the accreditation after receiving an invitation from the Department. Required for the application were various documents such as EcoSoc’s organization charter, list of current officers, previous year-end reports, and strategic plan. However, the
accreditation was not approved until the 25th of September. According to Cuizon, the deliberation made by the DTI regarding the accreditation took longer than expected because a lot of concerns were raised during the deliberation process. One concern in particular tackled the organization’s sustainability. However, Cuizon was intent on fighting for the accreditation. “We have already proven that we have had a lot of engagements.” Future activities Aside from being part of the CDO City Price Coordinating Council, the Economics Society will also serve as a welfare desk where students can personally share their concerns regarding the prices of goods to EcoSoc members who will then relay these to the DTI. In line with the DTI partnership, a lot of activities and forums also took place during the Economics Week which occurred on the first week of February. One of which was the Northern Mindanao Economics Convention (NMEC), a discussion about how the Marawi crisis affects the market and the consumers, and the development of Mindanao as a whole. As a consumer organization, EcoSoc will need to renew its accreditation every three years.C
[J.MEJICA]
TRAIN law prompts changes... continued on page 7 as education, health, targeted nutrition, anti-hunger programs, social protection, social welfare and benefits program, and employment and housing. Effects on the XU community The lowering of personal income tax is felt by the faculty and staff of XU the most. Under TRAIN, those with annual taxable income below P250,000 are exempt from paying PIT, while the rest of taxpayers except for the richest, will be taxed at rates ranging from 15% to 30% by 2033. To maintain progressivity, the top individual taxpayers whose annual taxable income exceeds P8 million, face a higher tax rate from the current 32% to 35% According to Eiza Jean Curan, CPA, the lowering of the personal income tax would be most beneficial to compensation earners since this will increase their take-home pays. Its simplified tax administration also encourages compliance among businessowners. Despite the decrease of the personal income tax, there are increases in taxes imposed on commodities, thus offsetting the savings of the workers. Curan thinks compensation earners and minimum wage earners will not be directly affected by the increase of prices of certain commodities because these are considered
by Khalid Bashier
“luxuries”. One main issue that she does see with TRAIN is that minimum wage earners were tax-exempt in the first place so the program has no effects on them except for the fact that prices are rising. **** TRAIN as a whole could be as promising as the law states. Though it’s not immediately evident to students, it could affect students more than we know. Considering the current allocation of TRAIN’s revenue, it seems to better stand as Tax Reform for Acceleration and Infrastructure because it doesn’t promote inclusion among the poorest of the poor. Despite all the promising benefits it offers, it seems to defeat the main purpose of taxation, which is to stabilize economic and social inequalities.C Source: Bicameral-Approved TRAIN Bill, Senate committee on ways and means Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Primer (http:// www.dof.gov.ph/taxreform/)
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NEWS
XU SocDev tackles local, national issues in SD week By Maita Angelica S. Arenas
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ith an aim to instill values of social awareness, engagement, and collaboration, the Social Development (SocDev) Office of Xavier University (XU) held the second run of the Social Development Week in partnership with public and private sectors to conduct a series of insightful activities catering to both tertiary and Senior High School students. The week-long celebration ran from January 29 to February 2 with the theme, “XU: Collaborating for Mindanao Peace and Development” which aims to highlight the initiatives and engagements done in Marawi by the University for the past eight months, while also recognizing XU’s partnership with other sectors. Even before the start of SD Week, the organizers already held primer activities such as a colloquium of the Society of Jesus Social Apostolate (SJSA) held from January 18 to 20. The event was a gathering of social apostolate institutions such as the Ateneo schools and the Bukidnon Mission to share their involvements in Marawi including their commitment to continue their aid. University President Fr. Roberto Yap, SJ and Fr. Mars Tan presided over the SD Week’s opening mass. Later in the day, the XU-Engineering Resource Center held a Traffic Summit at the Nursing Amphitheatre where guest speakers, Dr. Sheilah Napalang and Dr. Anabel Abuzo, talked about the problems that could be attributed to the City’s traffic congestion and presented solutions such as the Sustainable Transport System. Representatives of Motorela, Jeepney, and Taxi transport groups and select government agencies attended the event. Day two of SD Week commenced with the Service Learning Program (SLP) Summit in which select SLP students presented projects and testimonies in the XU Nursing Amphitheatre. In the afternoon, former Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Undersecretary Dr.
AGREEMENT. Upon signing of the Memorandum of Agreement, stakeholders of the BIMWAM Project gather to formally seal the collaborative project at AVR 1 on January 24, 2018. (From L-R: Dr Guadalupe Calalang; Fr. Roberto Yap; Dr Vincent Hallet) [G.VERONA]
Antonio G. M. La Viña, LLM tackled pressing issues such as human rights, corruption, extra judicial killings (EJKs), and the future of our democracy in his talk titled “The Duterte Administration and its impact on Development”. This was attended by representatives from XU student councils, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), and organizations from different schools such as the Bukidnon State University- (BSU) Government Affairs Department. La Viña emphasized the role of the
church and the University to make people understand their societal responsibilities, saying, “The church has only one voice, and it’s the moral voice,” The following day was filled with in-depth reviews from Al Qalam Institute for Islamic Identities and Dialogue in Southeast Asia Executive Director Datu Mussolini Lidasan who discussed the new Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) at XU Little Theatre. Lidasan shared salient points of the Bangsamoro Basic Law and presented 10 points of myths and facts on the BBL during the forum.
ASSEMBLE. Volunteers and staff members of the Traffic Summit assemble a map of Cagayan de Oro City at Nursing Amphitheatre in January 29, 2018. [A. DAYATA]
At the end of the SD Week celebration, Bishop Pablo “Ambo” David, DD shared his insights on extrajudicial killings as a pastor. He talked about the pastoral context, the response of the Diocese of Caloocan to the issue, and the plea to the community regarding EJKs. “The killings themselves [are] the death of conscience,” he explained. Aside from forums centered on relevant issues in the community and the nation, simultaneous week-long activities were also conducted by the SD Cluster such as the Marawi Recovery Intervention, which featured four sessions discussing XU Tabang Marawi experiences and views. At the same time, Alternative Classes tackling various advocacies such as HIV-AIDS awareness and solid waste management were conducted with 13 sessions to introduce the Social Development Cluster to Senior High School students. The Handuraw Marawi exhibit which started November of last year in Museo de Oro was also extended to be part of the SD Week celebration. At the same time, a photo exhibit was also installed in the peace park showcasing the program engagements of SD. Finally, Tagbuan, a fruit and vegetable stall featuring produce from hinterland barangays was installed in front of the Magis Student Center. Despite the challenges faced such as budget and time restriction for the preparation and implementation of all the events in SD Week, Banuag stressed that he is proud of the XU community’s involvement, especially with other sectors. Focusing primarily on social involvement, the gist of SD is encapsulated in raising awareness and engagement—characteristics that must start within the self to translate later on as change in society. “Gasgas na paminawon pero go out, engage. Go out [and] open yourself to a lot of opportunities. [You have to] focus and find tune.”C
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February 2017 | Vol. 43 No. 5
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NEWS
Ateneo Diplomatic Corps launches first XU Model United Nations Seminar By Winona Roselle Serra
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s part of the International Studies (IS) Week, the Ateneo Diplomatic Corps (ADC) in partnership with American Corner-CDO, hosted the first Xavier University Model United Nations (XU MUN) Seminar at the American Spaces on February 3. ADC Chargé d’Affaires Kent R. Lagare opened the event with a brief talk on the importance of a MUN. He was followed by American Corner CDO Director of Libraries Estrella Cabudoy’s remarks on Human Rights, a brief history of the MUN, and an announcement of their future projects and collaborations with ADC. First Secretary General of the first XU MUN Seminar Ted Lorenzo A. Lago, along with his Undersecretary-General (USG) for General Policy and Procedure Rhona Mae N. Mecarte, then gave an orientation on the proceedings of a typical MUN. During the afternoon, Mecarte, acting as the Chairwoman, led the delegates through a real-time simulation. They tackled two pressing issues: the United States of America’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, and prevention of state failure in South Sudan. Lago stated that their first objective was to spread awareness to IS students and the University body that such an activity exists. Aiming to inspire students to be diplomats and ambassadors, he follows that “IS isn’t just for the gowns, the looks. You also need to apply it in the international politics, so to speak.” However, he also expressed that just as the United Nations (UN) is not purely comprised of IS graduates, the XU MUN
TAKE PART. Ted Lago, the U.S.A. delegate of XU-MUN, shares his side of the matter regarding the first issue at the simulation at 5th Floor Library, American Spaces on February 3,2018. [J.MEJICA] should also be available to all courses and talents. In addition, Lago suggested that the relationship IS students have with the MUN is similar to the Business Administration (BA) students’ Feasibility Studies (FS) and the Psychology and College of Agriculture students’ fieldwork — emphasizing that the MUN “best defines an IS student,” adding that it is “the perfect venue for IS students because all of their subjects will be applied
in one venue.” Lago shares that this was not the first time ADC organized this event. Last year, ADC put together a full scale, 3-day MUN. However, it was cancelled after having only 6 registered delegates. He insists that “if you want to experience the lives of refugees, experience MUN. If you want to change the face of UN, if you want to change through diplomacy, if you want to experience diplomacy, join MUN.”
The first MUN was held in Harvard University on January 10, 1927, and was originally called Model League of Nations (MLON). The current name was used after the establishment of the United Nations (UN) in 1945. The XU MUN is only a simulation of the commonly known MUN.C
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NEWS
SHS Congress debuts in second TXC for AY 17-18 By Tatiana Maligro and Jc Marie Salas
TIMELY. Victoria Melissa Pulido, a Program Officer of the Xavier University Service Learning Program through the Social Development Office, gave a talk on human rights in the 2nd session of the TXC at AVR 2 on February 2,2018. She explains the human rights violations that pervaded the Duterte Administration. [J.MEJICA]
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or years, The Xavier Congress (TXC) has become an avenue for student leaders and legislators alike to gather around and discuss relevant and pressing matters in relation to the Xavier University student body. This school year, TXC was themed around advancing student participation through legislation in their efforts to get input from the student body. The Congress is headed by the Central Student Government-Office of the Vice President (CSG-OVP) and is mainly composed of 24th Directorate Convener and current CSG Vice President Love Angely Ravina, the Board of Dais, and delegates from different colleges. Within the delegate attendees, four committees were formed: Academic Concerns, Students’ Welfare, Services and Responsibilities, Administrative Concerns, and Student Involvement. Upholding and Expanding Tradition The Congress holds one session every semester throughout the school year. The first session in AY 2017-2018 took place on August 21, where 7 out of 8 resolutions were passed. The second TXC session took place on February 2 this year, where 4 of 8 resolutions were passed. During the first session, Ernesto B. Neri, a renowned Kagay-anon youth leader, presented a talk on Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism, while the second session featured
XU Social Development Office Program Officer Victoria Melissa Pulido for a talk on human rights in the Philippines. The first TXC session saw the passing and approval of resolutions on grade transparency, voter’s education, environmental advocacies especially in support of Biophilic Society’s Metal Straw campaign, and appointments of the Students’ Rights and Welfare (STRAW) Commissioner and Legislative Secretary. Meanwhile, the second TXC session saw the approval of the following resolutions: •A resolution requesting the XU-CSG Department of Academic Affairs to coordinate with the University Registrar to post integrated class schedules to every classroom •A resolution requesting the administration to improve and provide prayer room facilities for Muslim students • A resolution requesting the 24th Directorate to initiate dialogue with the Finance Office concerning the transparency of financial policies and items, and •A resolution requesting college councils to have a formal gathering at the end of every semester for their respective constituents for upcoming A.Y 2018-2019 As per TXC and Directorate procedure, these resolutions will undergo further discussion within the CSG-VP and the Board of DAIS before its
presentation to the public for implementation.
Directorate sessions,” he said.
Budding SHS Legislation Keeping true to their 2016 Botar Senior High promise, the Senior High School Student Government (SHSG) through its 2nd Directorate hosted the first SHS Congress at the Science Center (SC) Lecture Hall 2 on January 10. Unlike The Xavier Congress in the undergraduate level where delegates are chosen through an application process, over 50 presidents from every class in SHS were part of this legislative event. The flow of the congress itself, however, was patterned from TXC. The Board of Dais is composed of SHS class presidents divided into six groups, focusing on issues tackling academic concerns; student involvement; University facilities; students’ welfare, services and responsibilities; administrative concerns; and faculty concerns. The different committees drafted resolutions pertaining to their assigned issue, which were then given three to five minutes for presentation to the congress. After a short Question and Answer portion, SHS class presidents then voted for or against the resolution. SHSG Vice President Matt Anderson Ondap clarified that members of the 2nd Directorate - including himself - did not have voting power. “Because we will be discussing it man sa
11 resolutions managed to pass despite the long process. Some notable resolutions passed include the request for SLMIS access to be granted to all SHS students, regulation of turnstile maintenance, and formulation of strand-related organizations. Ondap admitted that majority of the issues brought up in the Congress were overlooked by the Directorate. The 11 resolutions will be passed to higher congress for discussion with the 2nd Directorate. Resolutions that concern the SHSG are set for immediate implementation, according to Ondap. However, other resolutions still need further discussion with the administration and other concerned parties. Rejected solutions, however, may still be honored and discussed with the 2nd Directorate and the respective school authorities before their implementation. *** With the debut of a new avenue for student legislation within the University, students are now more empowered. As the two congresses continue to grow side by side, hopes are high that students in the University will learn to appreciate the power of legislation.C
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February 2017 | Vol. 43 No. 5
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CONTRIBUTION
The legal basis to oppress By Glenn Paolo A. Goopio
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EC has ground to cancel Rappler’s license. But it isn’t because of “PDRs” – basically receipts issued to their foreign funders and grantors. A PDR does not entitle one to a share or stock of a company. A PDR is not an investment or a loan, but in a manner form of security. This is a premise known to both SEC and Rappler. Period. The problem is that one of Rappler’s grantors, Omidyar Network, stipulated operational conditions in providing a grant. When Rappler implied to accept their conditions SEC then argued that doing so is already a form of “control” and is effectively tantamount to ownership. Rappler could: (1) prove no such conditions were upheld, and/or (2) contend what legally constitutes “control”. But the fact is, there has never been an owner of any for-profit organization who doesn’t enjoy monetary gain. Until now, apparently. PDRs do not entitle the Omidyar
Network to shares or stocks of Rappler. There are no records – yet – of dividends remitted to any of the grantors of Rappler. SEC is only banking on what they referred to as a violation of control. And therein lies a critical error. If control equals ownership, then it is important to note that there are thousands of corporations who are also being directed and dictated by similar deals, grants and agreements with local and foreign entities. What kind of control are they looking for exactly? Well, it seems according to SEC’s group-think: any. Any control is control, amazingly enough. And just like that, the plug is pulled on Rappler. How this will affect the numerous companies – especially foreign-funded startups and NGOs – that also enter into the same PDR arrangements is a wonder. Are they all at risk of revocation, too? What’s stopping SEC? Why is Rappler such an urgent case? Shutting down Rappler does have legal
basis. But so did FE Marcos’ Martial Law. There was legal basis for the Auschwitz camps, mind you. And, legal basis for abusing the Rohingya people. There was legal basis for every single atrocity and human rights violation committed by every dictator – and pseudo-dictator – that ever existed in the history of mankind. Legal basis to oppress the opposition is a recurring narrative for every strongman who aims to build his own palace in the guise of building a Utopia. Fact-check: there has never been a Utopia, only countless palaces. That is to say “legal” has not been always “just” or “right”. Like everything else, it is but a hand-made tool, fallible and a slave to the consciences – or lack thereof – of its user. It could even be made to fit. But we already know that. The underlying question is: where will you be when prices of commodities have soared and a wage increase is improbable? Who will fight against an oppressive tax
scheme? When your freedom of expression is curtailed who do you report to? Who’s going to tell you about illegal drug shipments, extra-legal executions (murders) and territorial incursions? How would you know that plunderers are properly jailed, and not reinstated? Who’s going to keep the balance for YOUR sake? Indeed, upon its completion Duterte’s regime will be a peaceful one. High at the peak of a mountain of corpses one could always find solace from all the blood, rubble and smoke. There are no more dissenting voices, or “dilawan” as propagandized by fanatical social media icons. Who needs dissent, anyway? What you don’t know wouldn’t hurt you. And besides, it has legal basis.C Editor’s note: The Publication accepts opinion piecces for release in the next production. For interested alumni, students, and faculty and staff, you may send your entries to thecrusaderpub@gmail.com.
LAMPOON
Cora a d i b a r Cont ce
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lasting in my earphones was a song by V of Hearts (it’s very indie), as I fought off boredom and scrolled mindlessly through my Facebook feed. An announcement from the Electoral Commission (ELECOM) piqued my interest, and by interest, I mean I actually stopped scrolling for three seconds to read it. In bold, a poster bore the words: “Amazing Race”. Of course, I’d leave the race for the top positions to the others; by now, it’s practically obvious that there’s no point for an election if we all already knew I’d win. Well, I wouldn’t exactly call the race for the top positions amazing until I reached the last part of the post, “This time, for voters. Are you ready to take the challenge?” That completely changed everything. A race for the top position in the Central Student Government? Typical. Done. Next! But an amazing race for voters? Now that’s something. With the perennial problem of student voters avoiding voting stations like the plague, you would have thought that the ELECOM would have
been this close to consider asking Chingkee Tea to put a stall near the stations just to lure people in but, hey, an amazing race still seems like a good idea. The instructions seemed simple enough. Voters will have to go through two pit stops: Meet the Press and Miting de Avance. Once participants stimulated their brains for thoughtprovoking questions relevant to the student body instead of settling for half-baked answers packaged in flowery words, students will have to go to the final destination—the much dreaded voting station, where they will have to decide on the winning answer. I raised my gaze and saw other students in the University looking at me and back to their phones, checking the competition out to assess their chances of winning the Amazing Race: Voters’ edition. Of course, I wouldn’t be me if I weren’t your greatest enemy; I was named Cora Contrabida for a reason.
Illustration by Shack Gil A. Estrada
g Ra n i z a m A e h T
I mapped out my strategy for this newfound challenge in the campus elections. Students were huddled around computers in the library, doing background checks and listing down platforms between AA BBQ and Pork USADo for comparison. Wait until you guys see me in Meet the Press and Miting de Avance. I’ll ask so many questions; even TheCrusader will wonder why they decided to keep me from being one of their panelists just so “the candidates won’t back out out of fear.” The Amazing Race: Voters’ edition was the University’s hot topic. Everyone was debating about their chosen candidate. If you didn’t know about the campus elections, where the hell have you been? You’re so late to the party, even the official announcement for class suspension
would have reached the student body much more quickly than you did. I settled in my throne at the TheCrusader office, relishing the complete disappearance of student apathy that typically pervades the campus during elections. So this was all that was needed to make the students vote? To be fair, who even wants to lose when everybody’s playing? Take your pick. Choose your candidate. Stand by your vote. Let’s operate under the assumption that I won’t win the Amazing Race: Voters’ edition (yeah, right. I’ve been voting for years, honey). But, hey, second place is still up for grabs.C
BAG SA MGA BAE
BAG SA MGA LAKI
BAG SA MGA TUNAY NA ESTUDYANTE
KURISCOPE ni benedict (bitter version)
SHACKLESS
Aquarius (Mga jejehon) Talented pod ka noh? assuming na, uto uto pa. bongga! Asa makita si crush: Diri ra sa City of Golden Friendship
Aries (Way paris) Mag kita mo ni crush sa StC 801, ala una sa kadlawon. Good luck! Asa mo mag kita ni crush: StC 801 lage!
Cancer (SEA server) Tungod sa ka friendly, friend ra gyud taman. luoy pod baya.. Asa makita si crush: Sa probenan
Capricorn (Kanang ga puyo taas sa dakong kahoy) Hala oy! lahi ra jud ni atong friend. every subject naay bet. di pod ka tantong busy noh? Asa makita si crush: 3rd floor, Japan
Gemini (Wa nagyuy chance) Crush pod ka sa imong crush bai HAHAHAHA joke ra oy. pati ba naman dire mag pa ilad gihapon ka? Asa makita si crush: StC 302
Leo (Nagmahal Nasaktan NagpakaLeo) Aw. Bayad sa ug utang ayha mag det det sa imong ka char oy. kaloka Asa makita si crush: Finance office
Libra (Outgoing permi basta libri) Di na gani betable, tapulan pa gyud! unsa nalang may nabilin nimo oy? Asa makita si crush: Sa Magis, dapit sa waffle time
Pisces (Pisces in the sea) Pila diay ka alarm clock imong kinahanglan oy para maka mata ka sa kamatuuran nga dili ka niya bet?! Asa makita si crush: Sa miniso
Taurus (Tau na hayup pa pero di mo bagay) Friend..aware naman unta mong duha nga same mo ug feelings pero pareho rapod mo ga tanga...pungkol man tingale mong duha? Asa makita si crush: Sa clinic
Virgo (Basta beer go!) Sege kag pangita basin asa, naa raman tawon siya sa imong atubangan oy. buta man tigale ka? Asa makita si crush: Sa imong heart
Sagittarius (Archers) Wow! kung maka two time ang amaw, murag raba’g hitsuraan. LUUUUUHH Asa makita si crush: sa Jenna’s photocopier. paki xerox nlng pod sa imong face
Scorpio (Cactus) Unsay chekka oy nga wala paman daw ka ka move on? lihoka nalang to imong INC oy, di kay sege gugma. Pwe! Asa makita si crush: XU back gate
To Join: Photocopy this Kurissearch with your answers and submit your entry to TheCrusader Publication office at StC 302 with your name and contact number. Lucky participants will receive limited edition collectables. Congratulations sa nka-under-armor ug kalo sa iyang propayl piktyur nga si Kate Winslet Basalo kay ikaw ang nakadaog ug duha ka kadate karung bulan sa mga single!! Kwaa lang ang imong prize sa The Crusader Publication office, StC 302. Ug sa uban mga nakadaog karun S.Y. na previous mugs, pls paki claim pd inyuha. See yah mga bebeboy/bebegurl!!