Kaleidoscopic Perspectives
Inside: XUFD 2017 Marawi survivor stories Finance Office red tape CDO Indie publishing scene
Crusader
The
Cover Story
Publishers Subscribing students of Xavier University 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) 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) Staff Writers Maita Angelica S. Arenas (Contributor) Khalid M. Bashier (Trainee) Ar-Raffi C. Macaumbos (Trainee) Tatiana L. Maligro Jc Marie E. Salas (Trainee) James Edgar T. Sia (Trainee) Staff Artists Maria Monica L. Borja (Trainee) Aleina C. Buenavista (Trainee) Kurt Anthony B. Chan (Trainee) Rigel Kent T. Flores (Trainee) Arnel John A. Dayata (Trainee) Jomard Sam A. Delos Reyes (Contributor) Shack Gil A. Estrada (Contributor) June Benedict C. Laplana Karla Mae H. 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, or to thecrusaderpub@gmail.com. Circulation: 4,300 copies
thecrusaderpublication.com /thecrusaderpublication
Table of Contents 1 Editorial 2 Column 4 Nerves of Steel: On Working as a Psychiatric Nurse at House of Hope 5 Justice Served Anew 6 Silence Overheard 8 Liquidations, Retractions, Suspicions 10 One Call Away 11 The Renaissance: A Look into the Indie Publishing Scene of CdeO 14 Cover Story: XUFD 2017: Four-Day Bash 17 The Continuing Quest of XU Night School 18 A Semblance of Hope 20 The Slow Blossoming of Marawi 22 In the Eyes of the Survivors 27 Cora Contrabida: The Story of My Contrabidic Bid 29 Comics 30 Hohongihong
The Cover
B
ursting into a shower of colors, confetti marks the ultimate winning moment. It’s in the tiniest details that make up the grandest celebrations: in the stories that bring to life the people that seemed to be a faraway idea, and even in the festivities that complete XUFD. Here is the last month of 2017 in full color—a volume of kaleidoscopic perspectives.C Words by Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas Photo by Jean E. Abarquez
/thecrusaderpub /thecrusadertv
The official student publication of Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan Vol. 44 No. 4 December 2017
Email your comments & suggestions to thecrusaderpub@gmail.com
EDITORIAL
Deconstructing the HIV & AIDS Stigma
T
Crusader
The
www.thecrusaderpublication.com
Illustration by Rizalyka Joanne M. Waminal
he World Aids Day has been celebrated annually in December 1 since 1988. As the first worldwide health-related day in history, it aims to present a global united front against HIV, stand in solidarity with the people living with the virus, and remember those who have lost the battle against it. In March, the Department of Health (DOH) estimated that 30 people are being diagnosed as living with HIV every day— the highest incidence since 1984. Though the Philippines falls under the least confirmed number of Persons Living with HIV (PLHIV), the rise of newly diagnosed PLHIV cases is rampant, with an overall total of 46, 985 (diagnosed individuals since 1984) in August this year. A study published in May by the University of California establishes that being diagnosed with HIV/AIDS does not only mean you deal with the physical illness but also with its detriments to your mental health. Depression and anxiety are known conditions that follow the diagnosis of HIV/AIDS. Sarah Jane Salazar, the second woman in the Philippines to go public with HIV in 1994, died from AIDS complications in 2000. She died at the National Center for Mental Health after being diagnosed with manic depression. Alarmingly, there persists a major stigma surrounding HIV in the Philippines despite the national support of World Aids Day, and the advocacy of popular figures like Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach. However, just last month, Wurtzbach had to call out the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and concerned local news outlets for exposing the HIV status of a drug suspect. She also noted that news agencies made it a point to reveal both the HIV status and sexual orientation of these suspects at par with being apprehended for being caught using illegal drugs – which is actually the concerned matter at hand. Though RA 8504, or known as the Philippine AIDS Prevention and Control Act of 1998, protects people living with HIV from these circumstances, there remains the instances where others choose to draw a demarcation and condemn people with HIV. Consequently, DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III revealed in a press conference that only 33 percent of people living with HIV in the country are seeking the department’s free treatment. Undersecretary Gerardo Bayugo justifies that this is because of the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS. A step towards reducing the stigma of HIV/AIDS in the Philippines begins in the society we live in. While scientists and doctors are furthering research on how to defeat the virus, we as students can also move towards advocating for societal acceptance of the fact that there is no demarcation between people who are living with HIV, and those who do not. It is also high time to accept that getting tested for HIV/AIDS is not disreputable but rather, a part of health maintenance. Like other illnesses, “prevention is better than cure” could be channeled by being educated in the prevention of the virus, and being smart enough to know that HIV/AIDS isn’t only sexually transmitted. Mental health and AIDS have been hot national topics in the past few months. This newfound knowledge that the two share a physiological connection is an eye-opening coincidence; the study could not have been published at a more relevant time for the Philippines. It is all the more important to communicate the science behind these conditions in a way that the average citizen could understand in order to eliminate discrimination, prejudice, and ignorance: dangerous diseases not of the body, but of society.C
1
OPINION
D
6.02214179 x1023 By Mary Therese P. Mole
The serious joke
epression is such a common word, and so is “joke”. Two words that seem worlds apart, and yet some people coin them together. Others say that such a condition is just a joke, a creation of the mind. If it is just a joke, why do people die from it? Death is a serious matter, and so is depression. According to the American Psychiatric Association, depression is a common, serious medical illness that negatively affects how you think, act, and feel. It is a disorder. It is simply not play-pretend, or a figment of imagination. Asking depressed individuals to control their emotions is like asking if water is wet. Stress, hormones, past experiences, or drugs can trigger depression. Even if it is an unwanted feeling, if it kicks in, it kicks in. You can’t choose when to have depression, anxiety, or any other mental illness. So if you happen to know someone who is suffering from depression, don’t ever say “Char oy, ayaw lang gyud i-think.” Depression is quite tricky. It’s there but it often doesn’t show.
You don’t tell someone with mental illness that what they are feeling is too shallow for them to commit suicide or what not. Solutions do not need to exist if there aren’t problems to solve. The same way as nebulizers shouldn’t have been invented if asthma was nothing. Mental hospitals, the mental health bill, and medical prescriptions shouldn’t be there in the first place if depression or any mental illness is not real. Ignorance of the problem and not educating the ignorant are the real joke. I do not have depression, and I have never had it. But I hope to see everyone who is suffering from depression, and who is still living and fighting the illness, to brush off the stigma thrown at you. Acknowledge that you are sick, and that it’s not just a common cold you can sneeze away. Take as much time as you need for healing. As for the people who do not believe in depression, it’s about time you open your minds to the possibility that the mind itself can get ill. It is seriously no laughing matter.C
theresemole@thecrusaderpublication.com
D
Freudian slip By Gene Gerard G. Verona geneverona@thecrusaderpublication.com
2
From whole to pieces
o not take for granted the simple routines of your typical, complete family such as watching movies together, walking leisurely in malls, and eating at a dining table complete and together. I grew up needing a father figure in my life. If I had one, his support would have given me reason to be confident in the decisions I make at every crossroad. Usually, I go to mass alone on Sabbath – the supposed family day. It’s not unusual to see churchgoers with their loved ones and seeing them, I often think about how it would feel to have a complete family. My questions always started with “What” (What would it feel like to…) without knowing “Why” (Why married couples part ways). I think of why some parents have misunderstandings and end up separating, and proceed to put myself in the shoes of a struggling married couple. With all the complications and implications of domestic separation, wouldn’t it be easier to stay together for the kids? Deciding to keep their word to stay firm in their commitment or to easily let go is crucial to parents. This may not only sacrifice the wholeness of the family, but also affect the well-being of the child. Choosing to separate alters the child’s
perspective and impression of reality. The feeling of not being appreciated and being left out is instilled in the child, leading him or her to come up with the question of “Why am I deprived of having a whole family?” One of the many reasons a child may experience anxiety is having separated parents. Experiencing this in excessive amounts due to separation from people or a place with which a person is strongly attached to leads to Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD). A fitting acronym. It first came to me during my grade school years. I was with my cousin when I took my first step in school. Subconsciously, I never realized that I was with her since kindergarten ‘til 5th grade. Whenever we’re not classmates or one of us was in a different section, I frequently cried and insisted to be with her because I felt less secure when surrounded by people other than her. She was the little semblance of family I had as a child with separated parents. It is not easy for a three-year old to be placed in a situation that he or she never wished for. Will you still let the child see a picture of an ideal family? Or make it as a reality? It is all up to the parents.C
Vol. 44 No. 4 December 2017
OPINION
T
hroughout my life, it has always been a part of seemingly friendly small talk for people to ask what I wanted to be when I grew up. Similarly, it was just as common to ask my friends the same question. It was always about what job kids wanted to be doing when they were older. The question didn’t even have to come from one’s direct family. Chances are, you’ve heard it from your friends, teachers, and neighbors, too. So, three years ago, during our fourth year of high school, my groupmates and I decided to focus our research paper on just that. After identifying five different factors that influenced the career choices of our batch (namely the opinions of one’s self, one’s friends, family, community, and money) we decided to ask them which of these affected them most. Like most academic requirements, it soon became a distant memory— that is, until now. Because now, students are realizing that, “maybe, we don’t want to compromise our happiness and go where the money will be.”
Others are deciding “maybe we’ll do the opposite.” Now, students who hope to shift to different programs may no longer do so without having to convert to the new curriculum. And as these hopes slowly drift away far from reach, here we are—in despair, as we feel chained to the decisions we once made upon entering our freshman year in college. But who’s to say obtaining a certain degree is the ultimate end point in life? While it is a part of you, it will never fully be you. Just like how you can’t step into the same river twice, you will never be the exact same person as you were a few moments ago. So stop trying to doubt the choices you’ve made in the past. They were what’s best for you then - and if they aren’t what’s best for you now then I have good news for you. You have the ability to choose. Think of it as a superpower. You can decide what’s best for you right now, in the present, and in the future. After that, all it takes is to act on it. So, why not?C
By Winona Roselle Serra winonaserra@thecrusaderpublication.com
I
Au Maite By Harmony Kristel D. Balino
Blindsided obligation
want to tell you about a particular 7:30 AM class I took up last semester. Our syllabus was divided into weeks of assigned reports, with one topic for each meeting. You see, for the whole semester, everyone in class was assigned to report the entire syllabus. Personally, it’s the first time I was under an instructor whose job was to sit and listen to us report in my entire three-year stay in XU. Aside from usually arriving close to 8 AM, this instructor had a habit of not even showing up. One day we were fed up and rightfully left at 7:46, as the student’s handbook allows. The next thing I knew, someone from class reported that our instructor showed up in an empty classroom and was furious. The next day, I arrived at 7:29 and was met with a suddenly punctual teacher. In addition to hearing verbal lash on our keenness to protocol, the block was also punished with a closed-notes 40-item identification quiz which the other blocks took with open notes. Everyone in our class vowed to give that instructor a low evaluation because of how she handled us. Consequently, we could have
approached the Student Rights and Welfare Desk (STRAW) desk to complain. But a blockmate who experienced reporting an errant instructor to STRAW discouraged us from taking the “class act” on the grounds that a.) The process is long for student nurses who are on 26 units plus 16 hours weekly hospital duty b.) It required us meeting face to face with the instructor concerned, and c.) Everyone feared it might affect our grades. Instead, we remained within the confines of being the anonymous evaluator on eLearn when complaining via the STRAW desk could have been more effective, only we didn’t have the luxury of time. Still, as students, we have an obligation. Though most of our University instructors are competent, there remains a minority of instructors who are underperforming. May it be on purpose or not, the least we could do is give an honest evaluation to the instructors who need to know and learn from their mistakes of not owning up to the roles they are paid to play.C
harmonybalino@thecrusaderpublication.com
Crusader
The
www.thecrusaderpublication.com
3
Photos by Arnel John A. Dayata
Sapphire Star
Correct choices
Design by Gene Gerard G. Verona
Photo by Jean A. Abarquez
By James Edgar T. Sia
T
o be a psychiatric nurse “takes commitment and passion,” says Julie Mae Maisog, RN, MN, who currently serves as the head nurse at the House of Hope Foundation, Inc. The foundation is Cagayan de Oro’s first and only dedicated mental institution situated in Upper Palalan, Barangay Lumbia. In House of Hope, the hours are long, the pay is small, and the 53 patients currently housed there can be extremely difficult to deal with at times. Sometimes they run. Sometimes they hide. And sometimes they even bite and kick. Still, Maisog and the seven other psychiatric nurses who work with her understand that such travails come with the territory. Yet, they find the work deeply rewarding, in and of itself, in spite of their current circumstances. Getting by with a little help from friends Originally founded by the Missionary Congregation of Mary – a Catholic women’s religious congregation – as a facility for people recovering from drug addictions, House of Hope was relaunched as a mental health facility in 1997 (it recently celebrated its 20th anniversary on June 28). While most of the facility’s patients have been poor people from the Northern Mindanao region, Maisog says that people from the upper classes, and even those from outside the region have sought treatment at the House, which at this time is the only mental health facility in Region X accredited by the Department of Health
4
(DOH). Furthermore, the facility has only two psychiatrists as of this time. If it feels like this is so much for only eight nurses to deal with, it is. Thankfully, House of Hope has enjoyed the support and blessing of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, and other institutions. Members of the Xavier University community, most notably Joseph Bibal from the Philosophy Department and his students (both former and current) have also shared their time and resources with the House of Hope. Students have been known to join Bibal during his weekend visits to the facility to help out with chores such as tidying up the grounds, pulling weeds, and fixing broken electronic devices. “The late directress Sister Pat [Suniel, MCM] asked me if I could help House of Hope when I first visited them. I was surprised, since I didn’t expect that I could help them in any significant way. Now look at how things are,” Bibal says. A long overdue reward Twenty years after its founding, things are starting to look up for the nurses at House of Hope. Having your workplace situated in the boondocks and having just an honorarium for compensation aren’t exactly things to brag about. However, Maisog shares that DOH might soon be updating its Nurse Deployment Program to extend full compensation to House of Hope’s nurses. This means that the nurses could be as well-paid as their colleagues who work downtown,
and the raise in pay might even attract nurses who regard mental health as their vocation, but find the lower pay discouraging. More than a career—it’s a vocation Thankless as the job may be, the nurses of House of Hope keep at it anyway. To them, the work is a labor of love, and no amount of money can buy the wonderful feeling that comes with seeing a patient restored to their right mind, and reintegrated into the community they hail from. Senior staff nurse Cleinton Ubarco, RN, MN confesses that a nurse needs a superhuman amount of patience to work with super-difficult patients, but he and his colleagues all share the sentiment that the work is “hard but fulfilling.” Having worked at House of Hope for five years now, Ubarco is also grateful for the harmony between him and his fellow nurses, which makes the work a little more tolerable and enjoyable. *** While there are many other things to be grateful for in spite of the difficulties, the nurses treasure the gift of healing most of all. “No amount of money can buy the feeling that comes with seeing patients grateful for having been restored to their proper thinking,” Maisog says. In addition to nerves of steel, one also needs a heart of gold to make it as a nurse at House of Hope.C
Vol. 44 No. 4 December 2017
By Jc Marie E. Salas
F
Rules of Court in Revision Serving as the handbook for the XU-SCC and its constituents, the ROC enumerates the steps
Crusader
The
to be taken when dealing with certain situations within the court such as appeals, and complaints. It also lists roles and job descriptions of a Legal Student Counsel (LSC), judge, and justice. The RoC was revised in a long overdue revamp as the 2011 version only had 36 rules pertaining to the proceedings of the court. To adapt and meet the needs of the court and its constituents, this year’s rendition has comprehensively listed at least 100 rules, excluding the Canons of Judiciary Members’ Ethics, and the Canons of Student Legal Counsel Ethics. However, the most apparent changes in the Rules of Court are the creation of two new Court Committees, namely: the Board of Examiners Committee, and the Student Legal Education Board Committee. These revisions, drafted in May 2017, were fully accepted in August, though these are still not officially recognized by the Board of Trustees. The Integrated Bar In line with the implementation of the 2017 Edition of the RoC, the XU-SCC also carried out the formation of the IB-CSG. Simply put, the IB-CSG is an organization of Legal Student Counsels (LSCs) who passed the semestral Bar Exam presided by the XU-SCC. LSCs are student counterparts of lawyers. They are recognized by the SCC to appear before the Court and represent an oppressed and/or accused student or organization. “This allows students and student leaders to be more aware of their rights within the CSG, and makes sure processes are followed properly,” explains Agriculture Student Council (ASC) Associate Justice Khlarinz Catubig. Three optional weekly classes were given out by the SCC’s Board of Examiners Committee to prepare for the exam. Each session tackled different topics concerning the
CSG’s Constitution and the like. The Bar Exam was open to all bona fide students of the University. Although, all members of the Student’s Rights and Welfare Commission (STRAW), and those under the Office of the Legal Student Counsels were highly recommended to take the exam. The Bar Exams were conducted on October and November 15, with topnotchers Raphael Marcial acing the first batch with an 86.62% rating, and Manuel Reyes championing the second batch with an 84.48% rating. Still, the Bar Exam is only a stepping stone, according to the revised Rules of Court; topnotchers and passers don’t automatically qualify to be LSCs. They must also participate in the Oath-Taking, and Scroll Signing. *** With these revisions show an understanding of the constituents’ needs, it also helps realize a just, and responsible student government. “The average Atenean can benefit from the SCC by first availing of our services,” Ubay-Ubay says. “As long as you think and see that there is something wrong in the actions of a student leader, or a group of them, or that there are oppressive policies and newly implemented laws, they benefit from filing cases to us. We will serve them and give them a peace of mind through the administration of justice.”C
www.thecrusaderpublication.com
5
Design by Aleina C. Buenavista
or 12 years now, the XU Supreme Constitutional Court (XU-SCC) has played its role in maintaining peace among the student government and its constituents by interpreting the constitution, conducting investigations in the event of a dispute, and settling controversies between student leaders. It has remained a student-run organization, autonomous from the Central Student Government (CSG). XU-SCC Chief Justice Mhenard Louie UbayUbay shares that since its inception, it has, among other achievements, presided the 1st Oath-Taking ceremony in A.Y 2011-2012, and approved the removal of the Voter Quotas for the A.Y 20082009 elections, which, if not removed, could have led XU to a failure of elections. Still, the XU-SCC does not accept any form of award and/or recognition. “The SCC’s achievements are more of delivering justice through the cases it has handled,” says UbayUbay. Over the course of the University’s history XU-SCC played major roles in resolving controversies such as the improper use of funds, non-observance of constitutional processes, and the illegal creation of offices. Through a comprehensive revision of court processes, justice can be better served with XU-SCC’s creation of new bodies to assure competency and proper handling of cases.“[Factors] that have been evidently taken for granted from my past experiences as a student leader,” adds Ubay-Ubay. Furthermore, the SCC commemorates its latest milestone: the 2nd revision of the Rules of Court (RoC) and the implementation of the Integrated Bar of the Central Student Government (IB-CSG).
RS DE
By Khalid M. Bashier & Ar- R
F
or the past few years, Muslim students have been voicing out their concerns regarding the opening of an Islamic For the past version of Religious few years, Studies Muslim students (RS) 55,have but been it wasvoicing always out met their with concerns an uncharacteristic regarding the opening silence. Xavier of University an Islamic has always versionbeen of Religious Studies to accommodating (RS) the55,sector’s but it was voice always and met with anWith grievances. uncharacteristic the concerned silence. authorities Xavier University not hearinghas thealways pleas, there been might accommodating still be no to the sector’s Muslim Relatedvoice Studies and(MRS) grievances. 55 forWith the the concerned remaining batches authorities of Moro not college hearing students the pleas, in XU.there When might thestill newbecurriculum no Muslim in Related 2018 Studies MRS comes, (MRS) will 55fall forone thesubject remaining shortbatches again. of Moro college students in XU. When the new curriculum MRS 55 as a peace-bound in 2018 comes, avenue MRS will fall oneWith subject theshort MRS,again. “Parents are assured that MRS children their 55 as a peace-bound are still beingavenue guided by Islamic principles,” Junior AB International Studies With the Ellyssahanna student MRS, “ParentsEspinosa are assuredvoices that their children out. Withoutareproper still being Islamic guidedknowledge, by Islamic principles,” many youngJunior Muslims AB in International XU can easily Studies fall student Ellyssahanna Espinosa voices out. Without proper Islamic knowledge, many young Muslims in XU can easily fall into the trap of extremism and radicalism; MRS can serve as a “moderator and a tool in countering violent extremism.” A peaceful environment can be achieved if all accepted, or at least tolerated, others’ beliefs. But today, many Muslims in the city have almost little knowledge of their religion. “Before I study other religions, I must first study and learn everything there is to know about my religion. Bakit ko pag-aaralan ang ibang relihiyon kung ang mismong relihiyon ko ay hindi ko pa kabisado?” imparts 3rd year AB International Studies student Bin Khalifa
6
into the trap of extremism and radicalism; MRS can serve as a “moderator and a tool in countering violent extremism.” A Pansar, president peaceful environment of Sira’j. can beIt achieved has beenif the all goal of Sira’j accepted, or at toleast serve, tolerated, and enlighten others’Muslims beliefs. in thetoday, But University, many MRS Muslims 55 has in the beencity onehave of their main almost little focus knowledge points. of their religion. “Before MRS subjects I study can othergive religions, a positive I must impact first to Muslim study and learn students everything in there the isUniversity. to know According about my religion. to RehamBakit Macataman, ko pag-aaralan a 3rd year ang AB International ibang relihiyon kungStudies ang mismong student, relihiyon the subject ko ay is vital hindi ko for pa kabisado?” Muslim students impartsto3rd learn yearmore AB about their faith. International Studies She had student graduated Bin Khalifa from a non-Muslim Pansar, president school, of and Sira’j. hasIthad hasonly beenbasic the knowledge goal of Sira’joftoIslam. serve,Itand was enlighten during her Muslims MRS 20 the in daysUniversity; that Islam MRS truly caught 55 has her been attention, one of and brought their main focus herpoints. to the realization of its essentiality MRS subjects in one’scan daily give life. a positive impact LoudMuslim to Silence students in the University. According to Reham Macataman, a 3rd year TheInternational AB concern regarding Studies MRS-55 student, was theraised subject to TheCrusader Publication last semester. MRS instructor Ustad Jalani Pamlian, PhD along with Sira’j petitioned for the subjects to be opened but after the submission of MRS-55 syllabi to the RS Department, there has been no response. College of Arts & Sciences Dean Juliet Dalagan explains that a petition for a course is subject for approval by the Dean’s and Academic Vice President’s office, upon the recommendation of the concerned department. But Dalagan said her office has yet to receive any petition since taking over in 2015. On the brighter side, Dalagan emphasized that it is important to gather in an interdenominational class that will unite all XU students beyond religion. Offering a separate subject for Muslim students might
is vital for Muslim students to learn more about their faith. She had graduated from a non-Muslim school, and has had only basic defeat the purpose a venue knowledge of Islam.ofIt having was in her MRS for 20 dialogue the class that with Islamother truly students, caught herthough attention, Administration is always to conducting and brought her to theopen realization of its these with the Muslim community. essentiality in one’s daily life. Who’s got our back? Loud Silence CSGThePresident AbadiesMRS-55 emphasizes concern Ian regarding was The that thetostudent body is ever readylast to year. help raised Crusader Publication their Muslim brothers sisters. But while MRS instructor Ustad and Jalani Pamlian, PhD they will the aid of he along withcome Sira’jtopetitioned forMuslims, the subject states CSG five couldn’t concern to be that opened yearsraise ago.theBut after because theythree haven’t received request submitting options for any its syllabus regarding matter. Nevertheless, to the RSthe Department, there has the beenCSG no is assuredly prepared to raise concern to response, despite Sira’j’s yearlythe follow-ups. the College administration. of Arts & Sciences Dean Juliet Standard explains bearers that a petition for a course Dalagan Espinosa be taking is subjecthas foraccepted approvalthat byshe thewill Dean’s and RS-55. EvenVice if MRS-55 was office, approved, it Academic President’s upon might still be excluded in the new curriculum. Espinosa and Sira’j Internal Vice President Mohammad Haydar Alonto along with the entire Muslim Community are trying to apply for an Islamic equivalent of Theo 20 for Senior High School, the standard bearers of MRS subjects. “We might not benefit from [MRS-20] but it will benefit the [upcoming college students],” Alonto justifies. Consequently, XU-SHS students saw the need for MRS in SHS, especially when this is excluded in the roster of RS subjects. Grade 12 ABM student Muhammad Nowaiser Maruhom would like to take action but he says: “I am not in the right position.” This instance also served as a driving force to
Vol. 44 No. 4 December 2017
EPT
Raffi C. Macaumbos
Crusader
The
is assuredly prepared to raise the concern to the administration. Standard bearers Espinosa has accepted that she will be taking RS-55. Even if MRS-55 was approved, it might still be excluded in the new curriculum. Espinosa and Sira’j Internal Vice President Mohammad Haydar Alonto along with the entire Muslim Community are trying to apply for an Islamic equivalent of Theo 20 for Senior High School, the standard bearers of MRS subjects. “We might not benefit from [MRS-20] but it will benefit the [upcoming college students],” Alonto justifies. Consequently, XU-SHS students saw the need for MRS in SHS, especially when this is excluded in the roster of RS subjects. Grade 12 ABM student Muhammad Nowaiser Maruhom would like to take action but he
says: “I am not in the right position.” This instance also served as a driving force to push for MRS subjects in college. *** Contrary to how it seems, Muslim students do not insist on having MRS subjects. In fact, they are thankful to the University for providing quality education and openness to even have MRS in the first place. The persistence is only brought by the silence of concerned authorities. As a group of students who were taught to practice Ignatian values, Muslim students in XU have developed a certain strength of character in voicing out their own opinions. Regardless of the outcome, the community deserves an explanation. Anything but silence.C
www.thecrusaderpublication.com
7
Design by Jomard Sam A. Delos Reyes
the recommendation of the concerned department. But Dalagan said her office has yet to receive any petition since taking push in over for2015. MRSOn subjects the brighter in college. side, Dalagan *** emphasized that it is important to gather in Contrary an interdenominational to how it seems, class Muslim that will students unite do XU all not students insist onbeyond havingreligion. MRS subjects. OfferingIna fact, theysubject separate are thankful for Muslim to thestudents University might for providing defeat the quality purposeeducation of havingand a venue openness for to even have dialogue with MRS otherinstudents, the first though place. The the persistence is only Administration is always brought openby to conducting the silence of concerned these with the Muslim authorities. community. As a group of students who were taught to practice Ignatiangot Who’s values, our Muslim back? students in XU have developed CSG President a certain Ian strength Abadies of character emphasizes in voicing that the out student theirbody own isopinions. ever ready Regardless to help of theMuslim their outcome, brothers the community and sisters.deserves But while an explanation. they will come to the aid of Muslims, he Anything states thatbut CSG silence. couldn’t raise the concern because they haven’t received any request regarding the matter. Nevertheless, the CSG
By Ana Patrizia Pilar R. Arcayera & Winona Roselle Serra
W
hen a hefty amount of projects aren’t accounted for, and abrupt policy changes are made and strictly implemented, student organizations are left frazzled as they grasp the situation at hand. As stated in the Central Student Government’s (CSG) Constitution, all student organizations must provide Liquidation Reports (LR) after the implementation of their projects. These LRs are to be audited by CSG’s autonomous unit, the Commission on Audit (COA). But when there are far more projects than LRs to audit, where has the money gone?
In accordance with the Approved Audit Plan 2017-2018, the Office of the Internal Auditor (OIA) conducted an audit on the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) and Student Activities and Development (SACDEV) Office from September 26 to October 25. A random review of records and documents revealed an inconsistent implementation of the existing Student Organization Financing Policy and Guidelines. It also revealed a high risk of financial losses particularly in the Cash Advances (CA) of student organizations which were inconsistently monitored and implemented.
Taxation and Liquidation University Internal Auditor Cris Conanan explains that since the University is a non-profit organization, it does not pay tax in line with educational services. However, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has classified the University as a Large Taxpayer, and is therefore required to withhold and remit taxes of all purchases of goods and services to the Bureau. Per BIR protocol, taxable institutions must provide a report on their profit from the previous ten years. It is also part of the University’s policies to establish and support an Internal Audit function as a fundamental part of its Corporate Governance practices. BIR Memorandum Circular No.2-2014 also mandates that Sales Invoices and official receipts are considered valid as principal evidence in the sale of goods and services respectively.
Inconsistencies In an interview with SACDEV Coordinator Jason Dalman, he says that reports as early as 2015 during the administration of Mart Amores were returned by the Finance Office because these were considered anomalous. However, he also claims that these were returned by the Finance Office since only SACDEV had jurisdiction to oversee the financial management of student organizations, despite having copies reserved for both offices. This only added more confusion, as the Finance Office requested copies of these reports again, after they noticed anomalies in the finance process. This may result from similar situations to one wherein Assembly of Extra Curricular Organizations (AECO) Convener Glophet Paul Garrido recalls his encounter with the Finance Office in which he was told, “Sir, kami nalang mag-check para madali,” after
8
he explained that his liquidation report could not be submitted yet because it was still being audited by COA. Despite Dalman having evidence that these liquidation reports were turned over to the Finance Office, the latter said otherwise. “I don’t understand nganong ginabalik na nila, murag man sad og ginapalabas na among COA kay incompetent,” Dalman says.“Wala’y efficiency na nuon gakahitabo kay na audit na unta namo, humana na unta mi,” he adds. From the audit conducted, the OIA deduced the following results: First, as per student organization guidelines, liquidation of previous activities is required before the release of a new project’s budget. This was inconsistently followed. Second, there were also liquidation reports that were approved without valid receipts (some receipts were simply declared as lost) and/or with insufficient supporting documents. Third, SACDEV’s records showed multiple CAs under the name of certain students – some of which are no longer with the University. Collection of these un-liquidated CAs is now a concern of the University. Experience consequence “Gakadamay gyud ang mga orgs ug ang mga activities namo,” comments Garrido. He reports that according to SACDEV, the implementation of the new financing guidelines would take effect right after a seminar was conducted to inform students. Vol. 44 No. 4 December 2017
Collaborative problem solving Determined to track down every single peso and made as a preventive measure, the Finance Office
Crusader
The
has restricted student organizations from accessing the money they have collected and deposited - until they have provided the liquidation reports asked from them. On December 6, in a meeting between representatives from the Finance Office, Internal Auditor, OSA, SACDEV, CSG, and CSG-COA, Conanan relayed instructions from University President Fr. Roberto C. Yap to waive the search for the un-liquidated reports for practical reason. Aside from the odds of finding the concerned individuals, the search would likely require a thorough investigation. In order to contain the situation, the Finance Office gave COA and OSA a spreadsheet containing a list of student organizations, with their un-liquidated projects, names of project heads, and the un-liquidated amount of money involved. While Conanan clarifies that the planning of SACDEV activities and budgeting of finances are not within her scope, it is agreed upon by the OSA and Finance Offices that the OIA will assist in the monitoring of cash advances and other documents related to student organizations’ activities. This will also help the student auditors from COA with their workload, and ensure the strict implementation of policies and guidelines and to mitigate, if not totally avoid, risks involved in carrying out their transactions. S t u d e n t org anizations will also be trained t o
be more responsible and accountable in planning and budgeting their projects. Abadies stressed that part of a student leader’s responsibility is to be accountable of his or her actions during every step of every project because it reflects what kind of leader one is within; a competent leader should uphold the principle of accountability. *** Engaging in activities intended to promote growth is part of every Atenean experience. Organizational activities are good training for students, particularly in responsibility, accountability, transparency, and good governance. It is worth noting that SACDEV has no problem with regards to following the standards set by the Finance Office. Nonetheless, they are trying to be flexible with student organizations. “Being a Program Coordinator, kasabot ko sa student orgs and student event-organizing,” Dalman remarks. Hopefully, the alignment of policies and guidelines between the Finance and SACDEV Offices would solve the contradictions in the implementation of the projects, addressing issues on the delay of releasing the student organizations’ funds in the process. Abadies concludes, “This issue is not just a reminder to the Finance but also to us, student leaders, to be accountable on the things that we hold kay every peso counts, and students must know aha gaka-padulong ilang money.”C *Name withheld per request of anonymity
www.thecrusaderpublication.com
9
Design by Jayson Elvie G. Ty
However, the Finance Office claims that the implementation affects the previous semester, as well as the previous year. This proves to be a challenge as Garrido, along with other student leaders, do not have authority over their organization’s previous officers. He explains that the CSG Directorate was not consulted prior to the implementation of the updated financing guidelines for student organizations. The organizations were only informed after SACDEV’s initiative to orient students on November 11. Aca*, an undergraduate student, also speaks of the Office of Student Affairs’ (OSA) inability to thoroughly monitor whether or not students have submitted their respective LRs. This was spurred by the erratic passing of clearances, resulting in project heads being able to take the semester’s final exams, even with pending reports. Unfortunately, this poses a threat to the recovery of the receipts to be included in the document and its overall credibility. CSG President Ian Ceasar Abadies expresses that there’s nothing wrong with improving the financial policies. However, the Finance Office failed to see what it’s like to be in a student organization. Being in a student organization, it is the student leaders’ job to maximize the budget with the given resources in the area. “Medyo lisod siya kay as much as possible, kanang naa sa kilid-kilid lang gyud [na stores] ang palitan, but ang problem is wala’y established receipts,” Abadies continues.
By Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas
Design by Lynette L. Tuvilla
S
uppose you were in a car crash, doused in an odd confetti of broken glass shards, and your face pressed hard against the sudden airbag — the scene somehow reminiscent of a stop before the final resting place. Or suppose you were a bystander, with your heart breaking at the disaster unfolding before you. The scene seems to move along in a slow pace. Here, every second counts. If it were a simple personal matter, even your recent calls list can give away your “one call away” friends. But for matters of great consequence where the constant ring of the phone could run the risk of actually losing lives, who would you call? Bystander or victim: 911 is now Cagayan de Oro’s emergency hotline. The first move Although the national implementation of the 911 hotline began in 2016, it was only this year that CDO accepted calls through its own emergency dispatch center. Since October 30, calls from Globe subscribers in CDO have automatically been forwarded to 911’s local hub under the CDO City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) through the Oro ComputerAided Response Center. Meanwhile, calls from other networks will be rerouted to the central dispatch center in Manila, and will later on be sent to CDO’s 911 arm for the needed response. With a localized 911 dispatch system, calls through this line will see quicker response times. Overseeing the operations in the Response Center and start-up of the 911 hotline in CDO is Col. Mario Verneer Monsanto, the former head of Davao Central 911, who helped then Mayor Rodrigo Duterte develop the emergency hotline in the Durian Capital of the Philippines. Soon, 10
calls from other networks will no longer have to go through the central office in Manila. “We have been coordinating with [other networks], and they said they will eventually use 911 also,” clarifies Monsanto. “We see some implications because there are certain questions that we have to ask for us to be able to know. And sometimes, if it comes from Manila, the operators there will not have the knowledge of what’s happening on the ground.” An 8-minute response time after hanging up was set to ensure that medical emergencies will be immediately attended to. This is achieved through the Response Center’s fully computerized system with four consoles operated by trained call takers working 6-hour shifts round-the-clock. “911 will act as a hub to connect with different agencies, so that these services can go to the person needing the services,” Col. Monsanto says. 8 minutes to save the world Upon dialing the number, the call is facilitated through the Computer-Aided Response and Emergency Dispatch (CARED). Once the call pushes through, call takers trained to handle terse situations and calls will ask four main questions to determine the most fitting response to the situation: Where’s your emergency? What’s your emergency? What’s your name? What’s your contact number? Though the location and contact number are automatically recorded in the system, these questions have to be asked to clarify the full details of the situation, especially for emergencies where the reporting party is not in the incident area. The emergency response center partners with agencies such as the police, Bureau of Fire, and the Roads and Traffic Administration (RTA) for its four-unit coverage: traffic support unit for
Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) monitoring of the city’s roads, the emergency response support unit to aid ambulances through reporting of the location and nature of emergencies, law enforcement support unit for security concerns and criminal cases, and weather monitoring. Keeping in mind the possibility of prank calls, the line will automatically be barred from the hotline after three tries, meaning prank callers can’t access 911 unless they visit CDRRMO for questioning. While the current 911 system in CDO is patterned after Davao’s, it is still working on adding animal rescue to its services. “We have so much to catch up with. One is the system, although we have the same system as Davao, it has to be continually improved because we have to keep pace with technology,” says Col. Monsanto. It’s also planning to establish satellite units in between Lapasan and Bugo, as well as Bulua, to beat the traffic. *** Even with 911 operations in CDO moving onwards for nearly two months, appreciation of its fast response times is already evident on social media. As Col. Monsanto declared, “Later on, people in Cagayan de Oro will be so used to [911], just like in Davao. [...] Awareness will take over, and people will make it a habit to call 911 whenever there’s an emergency, any kind of emergency.”C
Vol. 44 No. 4 December 2017
A look into the indie publishing scene of CdeO
By Lorenzo A. Botavara with reports from Abigail C. James
A
renaissance is characterized by a reemergence of classical concepts that have been revived and modified by brilliant minds. For the independent (indie) publishing scene in Cagayan de Oro, there has recently been an outpouring of creative works that recall the boom of self-published comics and artworks, called the “zine” (short for magazine) in the 90’s. Rooted in formerly established movements, new collaborations and social media have paved the way for a new era of indie publishing both in the visual and literary arts scene.
A decade of difference
Crusader
The
Collaboration Nation
While it is certainly possible to gain an audience flying solo, the indie publishing scene in Cagayan de Oro is composed of creative collectives. Visual arts groups such as Artsada, Dire Husi, and Arkadia Collective, and organizations such as Nagkaihusang Magsusulat sa Cagayan de Oro (NAGMAC) for the literary arts provide creative homes for creative people. As Adeva Esparrago, a member of both visual and literary collectives, puts it “the CDO art scene boasts a range of established and upcoming artists who bring fresh works and unique styles.” She mentions Melissa Abugaa, Dana Martinez, and Alex Capistrano among many other visual artists. NAGMAC is also releasing three chapbooks in December 16 under its totally independent publishing title “Bulawan Books”.
Technology tradition helps
It’s easier to get noticed when you’re good at something in 2017 than if you were in 2007. Right now, all it takes is internet connectivity, an upload button, and the ability to present yourself – or your output – well. For creatives who express themselves by bleeding words, ink, paint, and even Photoshop layers, social media has been the key to advertising their printed works without additional costs. When no one else is funding the production of your chapbook or zine, the help from posting a status or tweet makes a big impact in getting the word out. But, while entire portfolios of artists are uploaded online, it’s worth appreciating the fact that printing and publishing have yet to give the reins to digital distribution. It helps that Kagay-anons seem to be very supportive with their wallets. Blotted Collab’s “Zero Point Something” sold out at Art10’s latest zinefest, along with other success stories from local artists displaying their works. The Bulawan Literary Zine of Northern Mindanao has also had to reprint their latest issue and will also be releasing their third on December 16 at Chingkeetea, a day after the 2017 BLTX which will be at Francesca’s (located at the Marfori Compound). *** There seems to be no way but up for the indie publishing scene in CDO. The city is one of the most competitive in the country; this is backed up by the productive zeal of the artists, and the thirst of their audience. Thanks to social media and collaboration, indie publishers don’t seem to need the big bucks to succeed.C
www.thecrusaderpublication.com
11
Design by Karla Mae H. Romero
Ten years ago, arts struggled within a small niche in a developing Cagayan de Oro. Literary artist and creative writing teacher Ton Daposala recalls the establishment of the CDO Writers Bloc by XU alumna Zola Gonzales-Macarambon, a small group of writers medieval in relation to the timeline of CdeO’s literary arts scene. They published one-page zines (printed on a single piece of folded bond-paper) and performed poetry readings at a friend’s beerhouse. According to Daposala, the visual arts fared a bit better, albeit still in that small niche in which the arts were secluded. The arts soon started developing as more establishments started hosting local artists’ works. Literature in the city finally gained attention in large part due to Nagkahiusang Magsusulat sa Cagayan de Oro (NAGMAC) and their popular CDO Poetry Night which began in 2014. The visual arts were reinforced by indie publishing
advocate and avant-garde poet Adam David’s Better Living Through Xeroxography (BLTX) movement which first came to the city in 2016. Even with such progress, publishers face the same challenges. Indie publishing deals with the creator handling every aspect of producing printed output, which is a lot to consider when deciding to enter the scene. EJ Villena, General Editor of NAGMAC’s premier publication Bulawan, says that the artist “must have a vision and purpose why this book or artwork must be made available to the public. And s/he must have the determination, dedication, and commitment to execute this vision into a reality.” Time and funding prove to be the biggest hurdles of the indie publisher which results into more collaborations between young artists.
O
n September 30, 2016, President Rodrigo Duterte sparked international outrage when he publicly compared himself to Germany’s most infamous dictator, Adolf Hitler. “If Germany had Hitler, the Philippines would have...” the President said as he pointed to himself, adding that he would be “happy to slaughter [drug criminals].” If that is indeed the case, then Mocha Uson would be propagandist Joseph Goebbels, and Philippine National Police Chief Ronald dela Rosa would be Heinrich Himmler, leader of the Schutzstaffel (SS). Or to use Philippine history, Duterte would be Ferdinand Marcos, Mocha would be Primitivo Mijares, and dela Rosa could be any one of the generals and police chiefs loyal to Marcos. “[Tyrants] may verbalize their penchant for tyranny as a necessity for effecting public order,” says anthropologist, columnist, and XU professor Dr. Antonio J. Montalvan II. Throughout history, this has been the case – whenever crime, corruption, squalor, and licentiousness reign supreme in a society, the people welcome the rule of a
strongman capable of laying down the law, thinking a strong figure could put an end to corrupt democracy. A state of degeneracy To see how a country becomes ripe for picking by a dictator, let us take a look at Germany during the years following its defeat in World War I. At the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, the crushing reparations demanded of Germany by the Allied powers put the country in so much debt that its currency was rendered all but worthless. Only a year before Versailles, heavily-armed German communists led by Jews attempted a coup which government forces barely managed to thwart, and a new republic was established in the city of Weimar. “Everything was going upside-down in Germany and they never experienced a democracy [before]. So they said, ‘Now we have freedom, now we have democracy, we should have no censorship. Not in the theater, not in literature, and not in the cinema’,” says film historian Werner Sudendorf.
No censorship meant that Weimar culture was saturated with escapist pleasures like sex, drugs, and wild music, theater, and cinema. The economic crisis drove people, even young children, to resort to prostitution to make ends meet. Cocaine and other drugs flooded the streets of Berlin. Adolf Hitler, a frustrated artist turned political agitator, wrote in his autobiography ,“Mein Kampf ” that “nine-tenths of all the ‘smutty’ literature, artistic tripe and theatrical banalities” were produced by Jews, and that the Jews played a part in “the evil of prostitution, and more especially in the white slave traffic.” Jewish involvement in the communist uprising and the debauchery of the Weimar period gave Hitler a pretext to blame all Jews for societal ills during the Nazis’ rise to power. In 1934, Hitler was declared Führer – or absolute dictator – of Germany. The razzle-dazzle Leftist intellectual Walden Bello describes Duterte’s methods in his war against drugs as “a killing spree” and
By James Edgar T. Sia
12
Vol. 44 No. 4 December 2017
Crusader
The
entertainment as it is to keep the masses blissfully distracted. And as long as the people are sufficiently distracted, the head of state can get away with saying – and doing – almost anything. What the individual can do Having lived through the Marcos era, Montalvan says that today we have a “creeping dictatorship” as evidenced by Duterte’s disrespect for the 1987 Constitution, and laments that young people unfamiliar with history do not see that. While there is no overt dictatorship to struggle against, is there anything the individual can do to prevent one from happening? XU chaplain Fr. Archie Carampatan, SJ believes there is hope for the Filipino spirit in spite of the degeneracy and corruption prevalent nowadays. Carampatan says that regardless of spirituality, young people ought to consider carefully the consequences of their actions, and consider becoming virtuous, and therefore vigilant and spiritually strong.
*** After all, many of the triumphant protesters at EDSA in 1986 had conviction, and were deeply spiritual. Perhaps in a time and administration where sides reign in solid colors, the Filipino people should remember that there should be no compromise when it comes to the democracy we’ve fought so hard to keep away from figures that take from the people by force.C Design by Jomard Sam A. Delos Reyes
the Mindanao martial law as “a case of overkill.” Nevertheless, such extreme measures were met with varied reactions. As in the case of Weimar Germany, the support for Duterte’s extreme measures towards certain situations may have stemmed from two factors: a desperate hunger for a quick fix to the perennial twin problems of crime and corruption, and the habituated craving for distraction – the gaudier and more decadent, the better. Dictators such as Hitler and Marcos were known to censor material they deemed disagreeable – a huge mistake. “Whenever censorship is attempted, it simply draws more attention to its target,” writes British journalist and free speech advocate Milo Yiannopoulos. The anime Voltes V of all things may have been banned by Marcos for its “excessive violence” and “subversive message,” but at least today we see no censorship of music, movies, and TV shows that have since become bloodier, more sensual, and even more left-wing in the years following Marcos’s downfall – none at all. Perhaps the current administration has cleverly chosen to leave
www.thecrusaderpublication.com
13
14
Vol. 44 No. 4 December 2017
By Maita Angelica S. Arenas
On the cost With the cost-cutting measures of the institution, Office of Student Affairs Director Ivanell Subrabas admits to being challenged by the very tight budget for the activity. “Four days celebration is really a big celebration. Siguro if you benchmark on the budget of companies doing events […] they would probably spend millions for a day. But for us, we manage to only spend at least five
Crusader
The
hundred thousand per day,” he shares. Subrabas explains that with the given budget, they managed to come up with the same volume of activities by controlling the budget each committee will get and not going beyond the target budget per activity. “We didn’t just accept the challenge but we found ways on how to meet, rather cope with the challenge.” Moreover, Subrabas adds that sponsors helped tremendously in alleviating the problem. First day blast This year’s theme “Explore, Excel, Experience” aimed to rekindle fire, encourage going beyond the frontiers and margins, treasure friendship with others and motivate oneself to strive for excellence. A series of activities already began before the opening of XUFD. Earlier in the opening day the Handuraw Marawi mission exhibit was launched at Museo de Oro wherein artworks and photographs of local artists and
photographers were displayed. At the same time, products from a vegetable garden in Marawi – seeded by the XU Social Development Office’s agro-enterprise initiative in Marawi – were on display. The festival officially commenced with a mass attended by the XU community and some guests and visitors from other institutions which was followed by the lighting of the Christmas lights, Belen, and launching of the Christmas Village all while of the XU Band played upbeat songs to further enliven the atmosphere. In the evening, the Kinauyokan ethnic dance competition was held at the covered courts, showcasing the wide array of talents different colleges and Universities host. The first day faded out to the Xavier Fest tunes courtesy of the various XU Soundtable and other guest bands gathered at the Main Lane. Diverse activities The second day started speedy as thirty bikes lined up in the Main Lane for the Bike
www.thecrusaderpublication.com
15
Design by Jayson Elvie G. Ty & Karla Mae H. Romero
O
nce again, XU opened its gates to the public for the biggest and longest celebration of love and generosity– the Xavier University Festival Days (XUFD). The annually-awaited XUFD featured an array of booths, music, and festivities which during the nights are complemented by a sparkling backdrop of white Christmas lights dangling from the trees of the main lane. Jam-packed with fun and exciting activities, those who explored XUFD 2017 were surely given an excellent experience.
Caravan with XU Band accompanying the entourage. It was followed by the constantly flocked-to Food Fest. Andrew L. Gotianun Sr. – Center for Integrated Technologies’ (ALG-CIT) presentation of the new ALG-CIT program of XU was the major highlight of the Senior High Exhibit at the SEC Walkway, which also displayed works of students from different strands. The ALG-CIT program will open its doors next school year. “We also made XUFD not just a University event. But it is really a marketing event also. It’s a good opportunity for us to showcase what we have during these days,” states Subrabas as XU opened an Academic Open House for Grade 12 students from schools around CDO which were invited to tour the campus. “Hopefully, it could turn to enrollment by June,” he adds. Flaunting skills Giddiness and agitation met the third day of XUFD for the JHS, SHS, and college competitors for the Amazing Race. XUSHS students also highlighted their talents in songwriting as they performed original compositions in the St. Francis Xavier Song Festival and the college students sang their hearts out in a soothing balance of voice and choreography in “A Christmas Carol” The third day was also the opening of the much awaited Horror House by the BS Psychology students themed, “Beyond Redemption”. XU-URO closed the day on a spiritual note with Praise Jam.
16
Invade the night The previous three days began with activities for the children and the fourth was no different as XU Grade Schoolers performed a field demonstration in the Soccer Field. Followed by the inter-school KPOP Dance Cover Competition at the Main Lane. A mass was offered for the feast of St. Francis Xavier. A lot of people also did not miss out on the fun as Dulaang Atenista humored the audience with “No Probs: It’s Improvs!” Following the afternoon’s events was “Katagna Ka?” A trivia night hosted by the Central Student Government at the Magis Canteen. After that came the invasion: students and guests came together at the football field to witness the interschool Hip Hop Extreme Dance Contest and to revel in the lights and hyped bass drops of the rave dance party.
*** Despite the challenges the University faced, this year’s XUFD did enough to give justice to those of previous years. With the anticipation of more enrollees next school year, perhaps one can also expect the return of the severely missed fireworks display and even celebrity guests in the succeeding editions of the event. It also helps to remember the essence of the festival, that is, to commemorate the spirit of service St. Francis Xavier so emphasized on throughout his life.C
Vol. 44 No. 4 December 2017
By Merryane Rose S. Bacud
A
Crusader
The
Hopes of the hopeful Judy Ann Macahilos is a familiar face for the people who frequently do printing services at Artihe. Aside from attending Night School, she also works as a computer attendant. For Judy, being a working student is a big challenge. She finds it hard to balance both her class and work schedules given that she also helps her mother run their printing business. “Kapoy pero need nako muskwela kay sayang ang opportunity na gihatag sa akoa,” she shares. Wandering under the sun through the busy streets of Divisoria was Anielyn Yamit’s daily routine before her mother told her that XU is
offering free education for out of school youth; she immediately enrolled herself in the program. Anielyn, dreams of becoming an SOE Phoenix, and eventually a professional teacher someday. “Gusto gyud ko mag maestra, pangandoy gyud kaayo nako na sa una pa busa ni skwela gyud ko sa XU night school para ma kab-ot nako na nga pangandoy,” she expresses. Daytime Divisoria parking boy Ronnel Maghilum joined the XU night school, so he could buy and do what he wants – perhaps even park his own car where he used to work – someday. “Niskwela gyud ko sa Night School para pag maka-graduate nako, mapalit nagyud nako akong gusto,” he imparts. Not for all The grand vision for the XU Night School pays attention even to those tucked in tiny crevices in the streets. Torres explains why street children are on the street than at school, “Ang ilang level of thinking and understanding kay gamay kaayo; that’s why mu-stay ra gyud sila,” he says. With the XU Night School, education being its own transformative experience extends its reach to the streets. *** The lit classrooms of the Night School represent a beacon of hope for the less-privileged people in the vicinity. . A lack of manpower and resources, however, threaten to slow down the program’s process of improving itself. “Kung wala mi’y funding, wala’y support, it will just remain an idea, it will just remain a concept,” Torres concludes. If granted, the best plans of XU Night School might finally see the light.C
www.thecrusaderpublication.com
17
Photo by Jean E. Abarquez
XU Night School Advance Unlike before, the program now has a permanent classroom to facilitate the students’ learning. Also, teachers from Alternative Learning System (ALS), volunteer teachers from XU Senior High School (XUSHS), and the Philippine Business for Education (PBEd) – scholars of XU whose return service is to give tutorials— are tutors for the program on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Additionally, support from the city school board, PBEd, individual donors, and private companies are expected to help the program continue its core goal. According to Torres, it is through the ALS Accreditation and Equivalency Test, (ALS A&E) the tutees’ final examination, that their concrete development can be recognized. However, the results will be released in February next year. Still, Torres believes that despite this and through observation, the students’ development in writing, speaking, reasoning, and self-confidence, have increased.
The envisioned phases After graduation, the students can enroll in formal education or in the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) program. In TESDA, students will be trained in mechanical, automotive, and electrical skills, and will be linked to companies like KIA motors for employment. According to Torres, this phase needs manpower and budget. “Phase two requires manpower, dapat naa na’y staff, kung mu-ingon pud ka’g staff, it requires budget. Maglisod man gyud mi musulod sa phase two if wala mi funds,” he explains. Through the XU School of Education and the city government, the creation of a community college is being envisioned to cater to the graduates of XU Senior High School, and TESDA. “The phase three is very ambitious […] and that is to create a community college in CDO, if you try to analyze the phasing, it really requires money and power,” Torres says. After their education in the community college, employment is the fourth envisioned phase of the XU Night School program.
Design by Jayson Elvie G. Ty
s XU students flock the exit lane of the main gate when the clock strikes six, another group of learners begin their day (or night) of school, some still wearing the shirts they wore from the day before. The XU Night School tutees have now entered the University, which is surrounded by streets they call home, to move forward in literacy. In its pursuit of educating out of school youth, street children, and drop outs in CDO, XU Night School has improved greatly, especially in two aspects of development presented by Administrative Coordinator and XU Night School Program Head Jerome Torres: learners’ development, and logistical needs development.
T
he Moro struggle that began since the age of colonization has not ended. For centuries, Moros fought to defend their freedom and mostly succeeded. After the Japanese left in the 1940’s, the Philippine Government incorporated the Moros into the Republic – an act they welcomed. It was the end of their war for freedom but the beginning of a new battle against social injustice and discrimination. And so it was that the blood of the warrior curdled once more, and the Moro people took up arms to defend their rights. Many believe that in time, the sun – burning red with turbulent, violent flames – will finally set, and the Moro people can rest their case and sleep peacefully at night in their homes. There is a light, a semblance of hope in the first step of a ladder towards peace. One of which is already on the works: the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL). Social Injustice Ibid, a book written by Muslim historian Ibn-Jubair, explains that in 1913, the population of the Moro people in Mindanao was at 76%. In 1939, 26 years later, it fell to 34%. Land registration, declaration of public land, mining, cadastral surveys, creation of agricultural colonies, procedure for land ownership, and all legal means of the Government which the Moro People did not have a proper understanding of at the time were some of the main reasons for this drastic dip in number. The Moros lost most of their ancestral domains, to the benefit of the rest of the population, mostly Christians. This was dubbed by Moro writers as “legalized land-grabbing.” A quote from author Aijaz Ahmad states, “By 1976, Moros owned less than 17% of the Mindanao land they once owned exclusively before the Spaniards came.”
18
Cardinal Orlando Quevedo, O.M.I, during the 27th General Assembly and Annual Meeting of the BishopsBusinessman’s Conference for Human Development in July 8, 2003, recognized and supported the Bangsamoro identity claims. Synonym for war You don’t need to look in the dictionary for another term for war. You just have to look at Mindanao. In 1969, Moro National Liberation (MNLF) front was established. They fought the Marcos Government because of the allegedly massacre of Moro recruits in Corregidor Island dubbed infamously as the Jabidah Massacre. There was also the rise of Abu Sayaf, which allegedly met with International Terrorist Osama Bin Laden during the AquinoRamos Administrations. There was the all-out war of the Estrada regime against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). Kidnappings, hostage takings, bombings that hounded the Arroyo Admin. Noynoy Aquino’s Zamboanga Siege, and now Duterte’s Marawi Crisis. This is merely a short summary of the countless battles fought in Mindanao. War will inevitably occur until something will be done about it. What kind of struggles will Mindanao face next? BBL Marjanie Mimbantas, Chairman of the Coalition of Moro Youth Movement (CMYM), explains that the Bangsamoro Basic Law is the agreement between the government and the MILF. It is considered by many of the Moro People to be the
foundation of lasting peace. “BBL is not perfect. But it’s the first step of the gradual progression towards peace,” Mimbantas adds. Some cities and municipalities in the Philippines will be included in the new Bangsamoro State. In Section 2 of Article III: “Territory” of the final draft submitted to Congress, the territory of the BBL will consist of: the present geographical area of Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), five municipalities from Lanao del Norte; the municipalities of Kabacan, Carmen, Aleosan,
By Ar-Raffi C. Macaumbos Pigkawayan, Pikit and Midsayap, which voted for inclusion in the ARMM in 2001. Also included are the cities of Cotabato, Isabela, and other contiguous areas where the Local Government Unit or a petition of at least ten percent (10%) of the registered voters in the area approve of it. A lot of non-Muslims will be assimilated to the new Moro State. But Mimbantas assures them of protection. “They will be protected. Their rights will be safeguarded,
Vol. 44 No. 4 December 2017
and they will have their representatives in the [Moro] Government.” According to Article IX: Basic Rights, everyone is free of religious, ethnic and sectarian harassment. In Section 4 of the same article, the rights of the indigenous people will be recognized. Countering Violent Extremism Violent extremism is one of the major security threats of the modern world. It propagates
Crusader
The
Mimbantas explains, “In another words, do not treat us unjustly in order for us to not have the feeling that we need to have an independent state.” *** One thing the entire nation can be sure of is that the Moro People have suffered more than their fair share. If there are people who desire peace, it will be the Moro people, who have had to be at the brunt of conflict. Mimbantas cited an instance in which he heard a judge say the BBL violates various laws but later admits to not reading it. Even more important than reading the BBL is understanding it, and more than understanding the text is putting it into the context of the long history and sentiments of the Moro. Sira’j President NorJamal Batugan recalls a Maranao proverb “Kudota nga a ginawa ngka, na o kasikiti kawn na kasakitan mambo so pud ka!” It translates to “Pinch yourself. If you get hurt, it will also hurt others,” and no value can be more vital than empathy in a progressive path to peace.C Sources: “Injustice to the Bangsa Moro” by Macapanton Yahya Abbas (https://bangsamoro.wordpress.com/) Ibid. Jubair p.121, (1982), p.7
Towards Peace There is a misconception that the Moro people will not seek independence if they have the Bangsamoro Government. MILF Chairman Murad Ebrahim, al-hajj, was quoted saying in an interview that there are no guarantees that the next generation will not assert their rights, and will not complain if some actions which they might perceive as an injustice will be taken against them. He also categorically warns, “Don’t give us a reason to secede.”
Design by Jayson Elvie G. Ty & Karla Mae H. Romero
from societal injustice. People who want to lead peaceful lives are easy prey for recruiters of terrorist groups because of oppression. It is easy to fall for fantasies of utopia just to escape harsh realities. For people in conflict areas, joining a group that is forwarding ideals by force is better than sitting idly by, and waiting for reform to arrive. One of the BBL’s aims is to counter such violent ideologies. CMYM is already addressing this issue through peaceful means. Mimbantas emphasizes that Islam never follows violence. “We focus on highlighting the gains of the peace process.”
Mimbantas adds that once people understand BBL, there would be no need to resort to extremism. The primary argument of the extremists, according to Mimbantas, is the failure of the government to honor its agreement with Moro people beginning with the Tripoli Agreement of Marcos Government with MNLF to Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOAAD) of Arroyo Admin, and now possibly the BBL. Another group that shares CMYM’s sentiments is the I Am Mindanao (IAM) Movement, which aims to educate and empower Mindanaoans to forward lasting peace in the region. IAM Founder Evans Yonson says that they are willing to support any effort in countering violent extremism including those mentioned in the proposed Law. “[The BBL] is a good effort towards achieving lasting peace in Mindanao,” Yonson opines. Major Anshary Pumbaya, Commander of Task Force Oro, says the Government understands that violent ideologies cannot be defeated through bullets. Thus, they are also taking steps to counter violent extremism. Pumbaya said they will be conducting Youth Leadership Summit— the target audience being Muslim students.
www.thecrusaderpublication.com
19
THE SLOW BLOSSOMING OF By Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas & Tatiana L. Maligro
Design by Karla Mae H. Romero
U
pon entering the fondly named, “tarpaulin city”, etched occasionally on the passing scenery are snippets of “We kill”, “We love ISIS”, and “ISIS” with a heart. They could be scars—painted reminders of deep wounds from a time that plagued the headlines worldwide: the vandals staining the gates and walls of Marawi in white and blue. Yet somehow, even with the scattering of soldiers across the vicinity, the city is slowly coming back to life, and returning to some semblance of its old life, as some civilians roam areas outside the main warzone. With those vandals are also reminders of the soldiers’ efforts to save the city, with some walls bearing the word, “Clear” in bold, white letters—almost as if to signal the territory they’ve won back. Now several months after the Crisis, winning against the terrorists seemed only half of the battle, as the next step relies on Marawi’s rise from the rubble. Rebuilding the tarpaulin city to its original glory covers many aspects that involve the economical, structural, and cultural needs of Marawi. Seeing the need for sustainable development as Marawi enters its rehabilitation phase, XU through its Social Development (SD) Office spotlighted on providing a livelihood opportunity to the citizens through agro-enterprise development.
20
Sowing the seeds Nestled at the foot of Marawi, XU’s adopted evacuation center at Barangay Bito Buadi Itowa has grown familiar to the faces of XU Tabang Marawi volunteers, as they come bearing food packs during their regular weekly visit. After months of relief operations, the XU-SD office shifted its focus from relief to rehabilitation. Though the XU-SD office has started to prioritize vegetables over canned goods in their food packs, it envisioned great leaps for food security and self-sufficiency of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in its adopted center. Bringing life to land that was razed to ruin, the introduction of an agro-enterprise framework has bloomed in a land at Barangay Bito Buadi Itowa with several garden plots of an assortment of high-value vegetable crops such as okra, kangkong, pechay, and ampalaya. It has also flourished with a forty-meter row of seedbed shelter. These are the results of XU-SD office’s agro-enterprise development, which capacitated ten farmer cluster leaders with technical skills on vegetable farming for livelihood generation, starting July 2017. These sustainable agricultural trainings were conducted with the help of XU College of Agriculture. They tackled seed preparation, organic but affordable farming, and marketing of these products.
“This will not just provide them food security kay kabalo naman ta: canned goods, kaning mga common kaayo na mga relief goods na gina-provide for them— dili siya healthy. [...] Basically ang gina-integrate sa Xavier University is that hopefully ma-empower sila to look at their situation, especially sa mga vulnerable individuals didto. Ang integration nato is basically dili lang to provide mga goods but we establish relationship, and then allow them to take part also sa process of rehabilitation,” says XU-SD Advocacy Coordinator Nestor Mesias Banuag Jr. To help the IDPs harvest the fruits of their labor, they were able to showcase their products during the recently concluded Xavier Days celebration. “We hope maka-establish ta og good model na pwede nato siya ma-share pud to other groups, other institutions. Maayo siya na opportunity for them to sustain themselves kay mabilin man nimo na sa ila. Dili tong dole- out approach na hatag nimo, lutuon, kaonon nila, after that unsa man dayon? [...] That is why we are engaging with possible partners. Mao ni siya ang among i-offer on how to work with them para ma-rehab kay dili man established ang economic activities sa Marawi kay it’s still (recovering),” explains Banuag. Currently, XU-SD office is promoting a fund-raising campaign for the procurement of needed items for the agro-enterprise development such as seed banks,
Vol. 44 No. 4 December 2017
Crusader
The
Relief to rehab With the ongoing agro-enterprise, Banuag encourages people to donate seeds and other farming supplies for the affected. These would be used by the residents to expand their agribusinesses and earn more income to aid in their financial and economic recovery. Although the University would like to focus on rehab instead of relief, Banuag says that money, food, and other basic needs are
still needed by the affected. Before donating these, however, Banuag recommends to ensure that donations are not haram or “forbidden” in Islam, considering that this is the religion of the majority of the affected. Haram goods include pork, revealing clothing, among others. Banuag also invites organizations, groups, or individuals to join them in their weekly visits to Barangay Bito Buadi Itowa. If the aforementioned have any special interests or projects they would like to share with the residents, they may join them as well in order to assess the feasibility of their proposals. “It’s really a needs-based na intervention […] para ma-deliver nato siya appropriately,” Banuag says. *** The five-month war against terrorism in Marawi has caused great damage to the city and its residents, and it is evident that repairing the damage caused cannot happen overnight. However, if Filipinos continue to come together to aid this fallen city, there is no doubt that soon enough, Marawi will bloom and flourish again.C
www.thecrusaderpublication.com
21
Sources: http://www.philstar.com/news-feature/2016/07/26/1606743/things-duterte-said-his-first-sona-z http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2016/07/25/sona-2016-duterte-priorities.html www.rappler.com/nation/duterte-sona-2016-live-coverage news.abs-cbn.com/news/v2/07/25/16/list-top-8-duterte-sona-2016-promises www. philippinecanadianinquirer. Net
A new home Another rehabilitation plan originally proposed was a housing project similar to Xavier Ecoville, but for the victims of the siege. Partnerships with the Engineering Resource Center (ERC) were created in order to turn the project into a reality. However, many factors will have to be taken into consideration in housing projects. Unlike Xavier Ecoville – wherein the University donated its own land for the project – Banuag shares that acquiring legal rights to land in Marawi will not be easy. “Sultanate man gud,” he justifies. Another factor to consider is the selection process of who gets to live in the land. Since clan rivalries are common in the Maranao culture, it is essential to ensure that potential residents are not from rival clans of donors to prevent future conflicts or discrimination. “Basin naa sila’y (land donors) mga conditions,” Banuag adds. Though the University would like to focus on empowering the affected residents through agro-enterprise, the dream of a housing project for Marawi siege victims is kept alive with Marawi landowners voicing out their interest in donating their land for the aforementioned.
The price of war Due to the massive destruction of the city, many government agencies have gone to Marawi to assess the damage. According to various news agencies, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) reports that the government could spend around Php150 billion to restore the besieged city. Moreover, 300,000-400,000 residents have been displaced over the course of the five-month war. Task Force Spokesperson Kristoffer James Purisima reports that the government has received 1,500 applications for transitional homes. While the University rehabilitates its residents, the government will be restoring the city itself and its infrastructure. According to Malacañang in an earlier press release, the restoration will commence once the city is cleared of explosives and other dangerous objects.
Design by Ryan James P. Pascual
vermicomposting facilities, organic fertilizer materials, nursery houses, and small-scale farm tractors.
F
or almost seven months, more than a hundred families have lived under one roof, among three storeys, and 37.7 kilometers away from home. With no light, practically no means of livelihood, these families have somehow found a home away from home. The Toril Evacuation Center is dimly lit by the rays of sunshine coming from the window cracks, but the families’ hopes of returning to their residences someday light up the dark corners of the once abandoned building. Now that the war is over, many families, especially those in Toril, are already looking forward to their Marawi homecoming. But with some parts of the tarpaulin city still considered ground-zero, families remain in Iligan. Witness inspiring stories of journeys, challenges, roadblocks, and fond memories of home from the survivors of the 6-month long warfare.
The dedicated servant
“Service for me, is more than a commitment. It’s voluntary. If you are able to save a soul, dako na na nga advantage. Ang tinuod nga pagserbisyo usahay masakitan ta tungod mao-mao ra pud ang imong gihatag. It’s the real test of service,” says Jose Dennis O. Mancia, the Director for Community Extension of the Iligan Medical Center College (IMCC). He was among those who aided in the Toril Evacuation Center in Iligan City. His job allows him to motivate, gather, and instigate volunteers, partnerships, outreach, and
22
By Maita Angelica S. Arenas, Maria Monica L. B the like, in the event of calamity. Mancia is a man of service, and is widely known for aiding in the organization of numerous outreach programs across the nation. When asked what drives him to help Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), Mancia, 52 and an XU Batch 1986 alumna, answers: “We are true Ateneans. When we were in college, we are actually taught to be men and women for others. Our existence is not only limited to saving and nurturing our own families, but we also have the social, moral and spiritual responsibility to extend services to others, especially to those who are marginalized. I cannot just leave these people regardless of the size of my contribution. Siguro dako ang pagkainfluence sa pagka Atenista sa ako. Maybe this is my vocation.” Still, Mancia’s vocation deals with solving challenges that come with providing for IDPs. At the Toril Evacuation Center, the lack of resources remains to be a perennial problem. However, with his expertise focusing on the mobilization of resources in times of crises, he sought partnerships with local, national, and international institutions. This resulted in engagement partnerships with Partnership of Philippine Support Service Agencies Incorporated, as well as an Asian community trust based in Japan, and
another partner based in Spain. Feed the Children is also in the fray for food supplies. Additionally, the Center garnered a strong partnership with Danish International Human Settlement Services Incorporated, a NonGovernment Organization (NGO) based in Denmark, in which the Center received Php 3.5M to offer as an unconditional cash grant assistance for the IDPs. With 1,555 families included in the overall household survey, the team gives a basic cash grant of Php 2,000, with an additional Php 500 for special cases, to the IDPs. This comes with no conditions, as IDPs decide how to handle their respective cash grants. Despite the stress that comes with the job, giving up is simply not in Mancia’s vocabulary. “Kung ang uban nga mga agencies, international humanitarian organizations, local NGOs, and government organizations nag back out na, [kami] wala pa gihapon. Kami nalang ang nabilin nga nagtabang sa IDPs on the ground kay wala naman ang uban. Ni-surrender na kay the war became protracted for several months. We cannot imagine a war that lasted for six months, so lisud gyud i-sustain; that’s why most organizations nag back out na,” Mancia explains. Amidst the scarcity of resources came the
Vol. 44 No. 4 December 2017
Borja, Mary Therese P. Mole, & JC Marie E. Salas abundance of volunteers. Mancia’s team sees to it that the IDPs are given opportunities to be involved in the decision-making processes. “Gitan-aw pud namo na dili lang ingon ang mga IDPs murag ba’g magdawat lang sila. Gusto namo na maempower sila to do something for themselves and for them, to be able to respond sa mga disasters nga ilang na-encounter,” he elaborates. To ensure the health and safety of the IDPs, Mancia’s team offered psychosocial intervention through art therapy such as theatre, puppetry, dance and movements, and visual arts for the children to freely disclose their experiences. They also do regular feeding activities thrice a week, distribute vitamins rich in protein and minerals from Nevada, USA, and ensure water and sanitation hygiene.
Crusader
The
Furthermore, a community kitchen is provided per evacuation center. Still, Mancia plans to continue to mobilize more resources for the IDPs. “Padayun gyapun kay lahi man gyud ang impact sa Marawi Siege kay human-induced disaster man siya. When President Duterte declared that Marawi is liberated from ISIS groups, wala man gyapu’y movement because for one, basic necessities and infrastructures wala naman. And 70% of the houses in Marawi are government-owned. For now, as much as possible, i-try nako mag mobilize og more resources ug more volunteers na sa ground zero sila mag-extend og services sa Marawi.”
The pillar of the home
When asked about how he felt knowing he can finally come home to Marawi, Monid Maguindanao, 53, says, “Sabik [excited] kami dun bumalik eh. Ang problema ay yung bahay. Wala kaming mapasukan doon. Sira ang bahay namin.” Maguindanao’s house is situated in Barangay Tolali, Marawi City, and was one of the many houses wrecked during the outbreak of the war. He recalls the moment he was carrying his disabled child while running away from gunshots barefoot. “Mga ilang beses ako nakahinto di ko kaya eh. Kaya pagdating doon, doon kami nakabakwit sa
www.thecrusaderpublication.com
23
Design by Lynette L. Tuvilla
As a man of hope in such a challenging situation, Mancia still manages to look at the brighter side of his work. “At the end of the day, it’s fulfilling. There are times na physically drained na ka, but working for the poor is always a consolation.”
Ramain. Abot kami doon ng isang buwan, baklay lang,” he shares. He also imparts that he and his family were too late to arrive at the evacuation center in Marawi to receive relief goods and cash. As the head of the house, he had to make brave decisions for his family’s safety, which prompted a move to Iligan City’s evacuation center, despite the noise issues that pester the area. As to the exact date of their journey home, he says that there isn’t a definite date set because they no longer have a house to go home to. “Hinihintay naming yun mga balay namin saka kami makabalik doon.” He concludes that as soon as he receives a call assuring them of a new house, he will immediately bring his family home. When asked about their plans once they get home, he says,“Kung may hanapbuhay […] ako meron man o wala, okay man ang buhay ko. Papasalamat pa rin ako sa mahal namin na Allah.”
Older, stronger
Mona Talicop, 63, was no exception to the grief and panic that blackened the hearts of every Marawi citizen as the war broke out. Talicop, together with her children and grandchildren, fought hard to escape. They hiked to look for help until a vehicle that will bring them away from the battlefield was offered. “Buti dumating ako nang buhay. Di ako namatay sa paglakad,” she says, laughing the harsh thought away. Her daughter says that as soon as they got to Iligan City, her mother got sick, and had to go through an operation. Fortunately for them, both the government and civilians helped her through it. Despite the refuge they sought in the evacuation center, Nanay Mona shared difficulties during their stay such as the lack of comfort room facilities, and delays in the delivery of relief goods.“Mahirap dito. Wala na kaming relief; wala na kaming inaasahan pa.” When asked about their home in Marawi, she says that she badly wants to go home and check their house. “Kung nasira, ire-repair kung may tumulong,” she hopefully remarks. Nanay Mona also shares that whenever she is feeling sad in the evacuation center, she shakes it off by walking around since it lessens the pain she feels from watching other IDPs. As soon as she gets home with her family, they will look for a job in the hopes of being able to build a new home, and to create new memories—hopefully much different from those of the past few months.
24
Vol. 44 No. 4 December 2017
From the youth’s perspective
Crusader
The
devastating times strengthened her faith in Allah. “Mas lumakas ang pag-dasal ko dulot ng giyera. Masaya ako at kompleto kami nang pumunta kami dito, walang naiwan,” she gratefully shares. Oray used to bake cakes which served as their family business and primary source of income. Now, she makes pancakes, and sells them to her fellow IDPs. For Oray, selling pancakes is her only option to support her children in the midst of desolation. “Mahirap talaga kasi araw-araw yung mga bata wala silang pamasahe,” Oray says. Still, Oray looks forward to coming home to Marawi. “Mas masaya talaga kung makabalik kami sa Marawi kasi doon kami lumaki, doon kami tumanda.” Upon the day of her return to Marawi, Oray plans to regain what she once lost. “Magbu-business ulit kasi ‘yan yung kinagisnan ng mga anak ko.”
Living on pancakes The heartstrong mother When asked of her inspiration to continue amidst life’s lemons, Mona Oray, 45, answers: “Para malampasan ko yung mga paghihirap sa buhay, yung iniisip ko yung mga anak ko kasi yung isang anak ko kakatapos lang ng pag-aaral niya at kinailangan nitong kumuha ng board exam.” Oray and her family hiked all the way from Marawi to Pantar to seek refuge. For Oray, those
Twenty-three year old mother Nasrifah Mamao Daligig had just given birth to her 4th child a day or two before the war sprung. Living in Malimon Lilod Madaya found at the center of Marawi, the family had to leave the city to ensure their safety, especially for the newborn child. Nasrifah’s baby was only 3 days old when they
www.thecrusaderpublication.com
25
Photos by Maria Monica L. Borja
For Jamil Managa, 26, a former Overseas Filipino Worker, a home is one of the greatest gifts he could ever give to his family. His ultimate dream was about to get fulfilled until the war began and shattered his dream into pieces. “Yung bahay namin sa Marawi malapit na sanang matapos kaso nangyari yung giyera. Ayun, wala. ‘Yung pinaghirapan ko sa Saudi, nasira,” Managa expresses. Managa used to work in a farm at Saudi Arabia for two years and used half of his earnings to build their home. Meanwhile, Managa shares his journey in escaping the war. “Malong lang ang nadala namin tsaka konting damit. May sasakyan kami kaya ‘di kami masyadong nahirapan. Sa Bunsungan kami unang pumunta kaso mahirap doon, masyadong malamig tapos walang tubig. Buti nalang yung kamag-anak namin sinabihan kami na dumito nalang kayo sa Toril kasi malaki ang lugar dito kahit papa’no pwede kayo,” Managa recalls. Despite the successful escape from the Marawi siege, Managa was not able to escape
from racial discrimination upon his arrival in Iligan. “Nang pumunta kami dito, hindi ako masyado lumalabas. Mas maganda kasi dito puro Maranao eh. Yung unang dating ko din dito, mahaba kaya buhok ko tapos napapansin ko paglabas ko, parang ang sama talaga ng tingin ng ibang tao kaya nagpagupit nalang ako para iwas gulo,” he points out. Nonetheless, Managa expounds on the value of education in preventing racial discrimination. “Turuan nalang ang mga bata habang maaga pa. Sabihin sa kanila ang tama at mali.” Managa fixes his eyes on coming home to Marawi as soon as possible. “Kung sakaling makabalik kami sa Marawi, mas maganda yung nasa mismong lugar ka kumbaga ngayon kasi parang mga dayo lang kami dito sa Iligan. Mahirap din kasi may naranasan kaming discrimination.”
fled Marawi, and was only covered with a blanket when they traversed 5 mountains before reaching Iligan. They didn’t go for the main road because it was where combat was taking place. Even from the mountains, they could see helicopters dropping bombs on the grounds of Marawi. The family would whisper prayers to Allah that no one die in the journey. For Daligig, it was a miracle not to have a relapse despite walking for nine hours straight. She carried her baby, while her husband carried their two-year-old daughter. The other two daughters were walking with their grandmother. At that time, Daligig was only able to bring a can of soda with her. Sensing that breastfeeding her baby would take up all her energy, she made alternative milk from hot water and sugar, just so her baby could digest something. Upon arriving in Ubaldo Laya village in Iligan, they came across Toril. Now that the war is finally over, Nasrifah and her family are excited to go home to Marawi. Despite the ground-zero situation, Nasrifah’s family is happy to go back to their humble abode which was luckily spared from the fire. The traumatic experience still haunts Daligig and the others, but they are relieved the bloodshed is over. Soon, they will be home.
26
The woman for others
Saada Sarif is the Camp Leader. She stays in her sister’s house near the Toril Evacuation Center, which is owned by Sarif ’s relatives. They were hospitable enough to host over 150 families to live in the abandoned building. Together, Sarif, her relatives, and the evacuees have made a new home out of a three-story building. Though they have a roof over their head, they still do not have enough necessities to supply them in the long run. They barely brought clothes, food, and money with them when they left Marawi in hopes of escaping danger. They recently lost electricity because the bill was too much for the budget. Their only source of relief goods is from non-governmental organizations because they are not yet recognized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), since they are using a private building. “Sabi ko dapat i-recognize din kami kasi IDPs din naman lahat dito.” Sarif states. It’s been a month since their last delivery of relief goods. When these days happen, they opt to sleep away their hunger. Sarif shares that most Maranaos aren’t used to this type of living because
they are used to selling, and having a source of income, but they have to bear with the situation at hand. Many of them are still traumatized from the war and are still afraid of hearing the sound of a helicopter flying overhead. This is why others, according to Sarif, choose to stay in Iligan, so they could start fresh, and to lessen trauma. Sarif is always grateful for the help they receive from different organizations, groups, or individuals. These things mean a lot to her and to the other 150 families, especially those with kids, and newborns, who have to suffer hunger. *** These are just few of the untold stories from the survivors of the Marawi siege. Seven stories among the hundreds more that are found in the three-story Toril Evacuation Center. If anyone is interested to donate to the IDPs from Toril Evacuation Center, please contact their Camp Leader, Saada Sarif at 09505632863. Not only will it make a difference, it’ll also save lives. Camp Leader, Saada Sarif at 09505632863. Not only will it make a difference, it’ll also save lives.C
Vol. 44 No. 4 December 2017
LAMPOON
Cora Contrabida:
The Story of My Contrabidic Bid
Crusader
The
Xavier Areneyo Law School and be well on my way for a senatorial bid. Of course that’s going to be easy! I just have to make a few calls over the Palace for my friends… I can’t wait to actually sit with the big guys and show up on TV as one of the country’s 24 legit legislators. Indeed, I could easily lawyer-up to anyone who stands in my way because I’m actually [going to be] a lawyer (wink, wink). But then another realization comes: four years of reading thicc law books (and actually not posting photos of me reading them online but actually digesting the literature)? Oh, self! Don’t get your qualms up and figure it out! So after a while of pondering if my Cora heart is willful enough for a post-graduate run that I’m sure I’ll also ace, I decided to look to some pals w h o have
pals who know who’s running for senator… and I’m surprised! You actually don’t need to be a lawyer to be in the senate! I’m definitely calling my friend at the Palace for a recommendation… Big names are actually starting to be thrown for a prospective bid, and I’ll move up my timeline and also throw in CORA CONTRABIDA – an addition to the “genuine heart for the country” lineup. Plus, I also have what it takes to be a qualified leader and decision-maker. Of course, all these credentials are recorded by my personal assistant who is profoundly notable in everything she does with a grade 29 salary. My perfect résumé in Arial 12, justified, and 1.15 spacing also includes my outstanding PhiLSAT score (the entrance exam that makes you eligible for law school admission in the Philippines) will be all ready and tucked in my shoulder bag tomorrow for my senatorial application ASAP. I am so excited, too excited! After all, all it takes to be in one of the country’s highest chairs is having a genuine heart for others – which I surely have. C
www.thecrusaderpublication.com
27
Illustration by Rigel Kent T. Flores
I
’m taking on higher education to further my career. In college, one of the things I always took pride in, being a Xavier Atenean, was having four Philo classes throughout my undergraduate years. In fact, I even enrolled in the earliest Philo class on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:30 AM at the topmost SBM Building because I looked forward to these classes. Well, being very serious about my philosophical formation, I believe the topmost classroom is just the perfect place to ponder on logic, (wo)men – that’s me! – ethics, and just… everything as in the essence of the material universe. You see, not everyone in the world is presented with the opportunity to grasp matters beyond superficial human understanding (because most of them are probably on the internet, scrutinizing and maybe bullying whatever’s yellow, I mean, trending (sorry, remind me my rhyming is bad). The thing about not limiting your perspectives superficially is that you see beyond. In my case, beyond all my straight A’s in Philosophy are the confidence and knowledge I grasp that no one could take away from me (please cue in the Miss Universe runway music; your future Miss Cagayan de Oro is making her anticipatory walk). You know, I did so well in my Philo classes that I nearly went to the admin to argue an A++ entry in my QPI. But, during my second Philo – the Philo of Man – I have come to conclude that I agree with the Existentialist view: “Essence precedes existence”. Therefore, having difficulty coming to terms with the reality of my existence, I have secured my own values through my subconscious instead. From now on, I vow to use my intelligence and abilities for the greater good of the nation! Indeed, I truly care about the citizens of the Philippines, yes I do. To celebrate this [great] success of finally figuring out what I am going to do for the next years of my life, it finally hit me: I could aim high for the sky and be a senator! Since I’m wrapping up my undergraduate years like a burrito, acing my SLMIS with A’s, I might as well enroll in the
KURISCOPE Aquarius (Ang taong hilig ug fish.. fishta!) Grabi maka pista muabot man ug Agora! Maong di makapa seksi kay tinatago ang taba, pero tirada permi nimo humba Words of the day: Viva Pit Senyor! Aries (Kanding na naay bangs!) Hapit na christmas break bespren! Wan week walay klase, sure na! Naa napuy mag molds sa balay kay wan week napod walay ligo hekhek Words of the day: Shield galit sa sakit, may malasakit
COMICS
Cancer (Pa bet kang sir) Busa diay dean’s lister, peborit man diay ni sir.. Word of the day: Prezent!!! Capricorn (Mahilig mangape ug grabi ka corny) Mao diay bilar permi, kay sigeg tan-aw ug corn. Words of the day: Hmm! Yummy! Gemini (Over kaayo mainlab) Kung feeling nimo nakagusto siya saimo.. feeling ra gyud na nimo! Feelingera! Word of the day: Where? (Asa) Leo (Sa group projects pabigat) Hala oy, tabang tabang pud ta panalagsa besh Words of the day: Busy ko. Libra (Estudyante na taga banwa) Ako, ginganlan ko niyag takirub, ginganlan pa gyud ko niyag bahog peanut, kay nium-um kuno siya sa mani saakong bana, baho kunog peanut! Word of the day: Bayot! Pisces (Ganahag pineapple sa pizza) Pugson jud niyag mabagay ang pineapple sa pizza, sama niya na pugson jud mabagay sila. Word of the day: Del Monte Taurus (Imong utang ga uros2x!) Kung paninglan, “wala pa koy kwarta”, pero pagtan-aw sa pisbuk, tua! naka starbucks na ug putspa! Words of the day: Kat-kat! Virgo (Friend nimo na mu-shat ug mu-go!) Patak-patak sad dong, virgo man ka dili man ka cancer-cancer sa lipunan! Word of the day: Gottago!
To join: Photocopy this Kurisearch with your answers and submit your entry to TheCrusader Publication office at StC 302 with your fullname and contact number. Lucky participants will receive limited edition collectables. Congrats diay sa nakadaog miaging bulanaaa!! Labi na kay Norie-Joy S. Asister!!! Ug sa dihang ikaw ang plarang nakadaog, naa miy ihatag na pamasakuhan sa imo--duha ka sako nga spaghetti para sa imong mga igsuon!! hahaha btaw kyy, kwaa lang among handog sa STC 302!! Kita-kits gwapitang!! C
Crusader
The
Sagittarius (Sigeg pangitag ka-relationship, pero dili serious) Di na uso collect and sellect, collect and collect nalang uy! Words of the day: Swipe right! Scorpio (Naka score ni siya oh! Bag-o lang!) (Cebuana tune) You really need a Kagayanoooon! hehe joke! murag kamo! Words of the day: Karencitta www.thecrusaderpublication.com
29