TheCrusader AY Starter 2014 by The Crusader Publication

Ensuring competence Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inside: Enrollment Delay in summer salaries Becoming Filipino

Contents Editorial

Column

El no Filipino

Sins of the Instagram generation

Fraternities: brotherhood, bruises, and brawls

Starting point: Xavier Ecoville in two years

Now you see it

Agrarian reform program: Efforts to plow the way for progress

Understanding Islam: Building bridges instead of barriers

Long lines, long way to go: A closer look at XU’s enrollment system

Beneath the surface

Trash talk: Solid waste management in CdeO

Twice the effort

Behind becoming Filipino

The miscellaneous breakdown

20 days of summer and salary

Cora Contrabida: Back-to-school blues

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Ensuring competence What’s inside: Enrollment Delay in summer salaries Becoming Filipino

rom coverless books to long enrollment lines, we know that XU services want for many things. Our university has great pride of its place amongst the country’s top schools; perhaps this complacent pride has caused it to overlook the needs of the students. The question now lies in whether it can discard this hubris; to pause mid-stride and catch its breath, looking back at the distance it’s covered; to look towards the horizon, evervigilant of how far it has yet to travel.C Words by Andrew Rey L. del Fierro Photo by Paul Clinton B. Balase

The official student publication of Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan Vol. 41 No. 1 July 2014

Editors Louren B. Aranas Editor in Chief, Andrew Rey L. Del Fierro Associate Editor, Rico M. Magallona Design Editor, Nitzchia Cassiopea Beroe A. Lozarita Managing Editor, Rezza Mae B. Tolinero News Editor, Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas Campus Features Editor (Interim), Xian Louis Patrick R. Arcayera Local Features Editor, Marina M. Garcia External Features Editor, Ma. Isabella C. Agawin Sports Editor (Interim), Jericho B. Montellano Graphic Design and Layout Editor, Paul Clinton B. Balase Photography Editor, Christian Loui S. Gamolo Freehand Editor (Interim) | Finance Officers Rochelle D. Barros Auditor, Yoshabeth A. Valdehuesa Senior Finance Officer, Maria Gladys B. Labis Junior Finance Officer | Managers Ben Clark B. Balase Human Resource Manager, Jigo L. Racaza Office Manager, Marlon R. Boro Circulation Manager, Keith Obed J. Ruiz Video Productions Manager, Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas Online Accounts Manager, Mchael D. Poncardas Senior Computer Systems Manager, Joe Marie Claire B. Balase Junior Computer Systems Manager(Trainee) | Staff Writers Jose Luis Martin D. Amador (Trainee), Robin Maeve T. Bacarro (Trainee), Romulado Manuel C. Bacungan (Trainee), Lorenzo A. Botavara (Trainee), Fatima Roqaya A. Datu-Ramos (Trainee), Daphne J. Dujali (Trainee), Jose Angelo Lorenzo S. Gomos (Trainee), Mary Antoinette M. Magallanes (Trainee), Mary Isabel M. Meneses (Trainee), Melrein John D.R. Viado (Trainee) | Staff Artists Evan B. Aranas (Trainee), John Niccolo A. Aquino, Ben Clark B. Balase, Rochelle D. Barros, Marlon R. Boro, Mirachelle L. Broñola (Trainee), Kimberly Mae V. Llano (Trainee), Sittie Naisha D. Munder (Trainee), Jigo L. Racaza, Mark D. Rodriguez (Trainee), Keith Obed J. Ruiz, Jan Michael A. Sy (Trainee),Ronan Jay Tolinero (Trainee), Lynette L. Tuvilla (Trainee), Deanne Antoinette B. Yecyec (Trainee), Lorenzo B. Yecyec (Trainee), Venice Marie P. Villo Moderator Mrs. Ann Catherine Ticao-Acenas For contributions, please address your articles and/or comments to: Crusader Publication office, Rm. 302, Student Center Bldg., Xavier University 9000, Cagayan de Oro City Circulation: 7, 500 copies

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Editorial

A quest versus disparity

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Illustration by Christian Loui S. Gamolo

n most Philippine movies and primetime soap operas, there’s always this central theme of happiness after sorrow. The same plot pervades: an economically successful person meets an underdog, the underdog is kicked down but in the end, justice prevails. At first, the audience may find this plot heartwarming. We are made to believe that equity—not to be confused with equality—among people of different social strata is possible. We are made to believe that the judiciary system in the country is fully functional and infallible. As we hear reports of injustice, however, we are reminded that those are merely figments of a scriptwriter’s imagination. Life in the Philippines is not confined within a television screen. It is, in reality, a constant struggle for equality and transparency.; a neverending crusade for truth and reform as the gap between the most financially able and financially unstable continues to widen. Why then, do we see portrayals of a just judiciary system? Could it be because equality here in the country is nothing but a far-fetched dream in a faraway utopia? Probably. The disparity between the rich and the poor is difficult to ignore. First, consider the national system of penalty. In a way, such expose of big-scale corruption also brings another issue into the spotlight: how people, who don’t have a streak of prominence, are treated in prisons. He who steals millions, or even billions, of the taxpayers’ money for his extravagant lifestyle stays in detention cells far more comfortable than apartments being rented in big cities, while he who steals a piece of bread for his hungry family is left to rot in jail. Think Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Virgilio Garcillano or Janet Lim-Napoles. Is Philippine justice pathetic to the point that it can be bought by anyone who has the money? If the judiciary system is this unfair, then it is only rational that people can expect more corrupt leaders in the future. Looking at it from another angle, this calls not for influential people to be treated inhumanely, but for less fortunate people to live decently. Besides, prisons are supposed to reform people, not torture them. Second, that education is a privilege instead of a right has become a glaring reality in the country. For one, entrance exams are biased to those who can understand English. Language is but one measure of aptitude. It’s a great loss for people in the minority who aspire to grow in premier institutions but can’t simply because he cannot fully comprehend the language used in exams. Studying in public schools also come with a price. Why pay fees when public schools are funded by the government? Moreover, do we see major improvements when we pay such fees? It seems that we fail to see concrete answers. While the said examples can be too complex, disparity among different social classes can be lessened. The answer is simple and is often reiterated in formation classes: strive for change. Change of epic proportions starts inernally. Though it is true that change does not happen overnight, efforts to change from an individual or group can be contagious. Support advocacies. Involve yourself in organizations, and the causes of which you feel strongly about. Participate in intelligent discussions. Instead of automatically blaming the government from the sidelines, analyze the situation and speak your mind. Though we may not feel the impact of inequality in our everyday lives, we’re all part of an interconnected web that affects one another. We may be so caught up in our daily routines that we often forget to pause and ask ourselves if there’s something we could do for those who desperately need help. It pays to try.C

Red By Jericho B. Montellano

U has changed variously since 2005, when the administration re-implemented the uniform policy after it was abolished for several years. Education is more complex, more stressful, and more demanding. For instance, the grading system is now zero-based and technology plays a bigger role in class requirements. We have transitioned from the Knowledge Worker Age into the Social Media Age. These extensive changes in education and obvious shifts in the digitalized society give rise to a question that comes to mind fairly often: Was the re-implementation of the uniform policy significant in fostering quality education in XU? And for that matter, is the policy still significant today? My answer: the greater the change, the less significant it becomes. Education is universal and dynamic, and its developments are, and always will be, based upon timely and self-evident principles common to society. The uniform policy is not a universal strategy for the development of education; if it was, then some of the country’s premier universities should have implemented it. The policy simply acts as a Band-Aid solution to resolve equality issues among students—as it provides a visible symbol of equity in clothing, covering up social distinctions in the campus. Evidently, however, the policy does not stop students from cutting classes, violating rules, or any other

Night’s Watch By Xian Louis Patrick R. Arcayera

o be or not to be, that is the question.” You might notice this line from Shakespeare’s play. Now, how about the long line of students outside the Magis bookstore? You noticed that, too, right? So what do the lines outside the bookstore have to do with Shakespeare? One word: tickets. This scene doesn’t even come out as surprising because XU houses a large pool of talents in the performing arts. Acts, plays, concerts and the like have been an outlet for the community to showcase its performing prowess. For a university to have a rich appreciation of the performing arts is an advantage. It goes to show that XU produces holistic and well-rounded people. The problem is that not all students are inclined to watch such events. So how do they expand their audience? Simple. Offer additional points to students who’d buy tickets. For all we know, the intention of the teacher is to help the organizers of the show or play. Even so, it is stipulated in Article 3, Section 10 of the Magna Carta of Students Rights and Responsibilities (taken from the 2014 Student Handbook) that: “Teachers shall not require purchase of tickets or the like as part of the

destructive behaviour. Over time, like an adhesive bandage, the uniform policy will slowly become ineffective and eventually be insignificant. Many people do not think this way, at least consciously. In fact, most of us believe that the policy promotes a positive learning atmosphere and is a long-term option that helps avoid the so-called wardrobe crisis. I do think this makes partial sense, but if we all ultimately think this way, the policy’s concept will only be a distraction. If we reason out that the policy “promotes school identity” or “saves us from outfit dilemmas” then we are all missing the big picture. The policy should never be about school pride and status symbol clothing. In reality, we focus on the uniform solely more than its essence. We put up signs saying Ateneans are proud of their identity, and thus should wear their uniform properly, not realizing that Ateneo de Manila and other renowned universities need not advocate this mindset to be acknowledged by leading teaching and research institutions in the country. The policy is only one of the many factors affecting our educational experience in XU, but it is not significant in our university’s educational development nor in our identity. Having a genuine, quality education, and the most effective teaching techniques and facilities are the things that should identify us as Ateneans—not our uniform.C

academic requirement of any academic course.” In the same line, the Philippine Code of Ethics for Teachers states that: “A teacher shall base the evaluation of the learner’s work only in merit and quality of academic performance.”Technically, when the buying of tickets is made optional by the teacher the student’s rights are not directly violated. However, it evokes a student to buy because of the luxury of earning additional points without much effort. Ethics aside, does buying tickets contribute to actual learning? The whole idea of having a point system in schools is to measure the aptitude of students. Earning points by buying tickets undermines the whole point of having a grading system. Grades shouldn’t be, in any way, linked with money. Deprived of the chance to earn points, students who can’t afford the tickets which range from Php 60 to 100 are put to a disadvantage. Looking at every angle, there is no way that buying tickets could gauge academic performance. Our educational system has become greatly reliant on points and grades. If buying tickets equates to earning points, then our efforts of learning become less significant. If we put great value in education, then the determination of grades should be based on a student’s intellectual growth, not from simply buying tickets.C Vol. 41 No. 1 July 2014

Lorem Ipsum By Louren B. Aranas

Even prostitutes can be raped. Clad in a hijab or a twopiece bikini, a woman is vulnerable to being sexually assaulted. Tell me if, at some point, a girl wasn’t warned of wearing a pair of shorts or a sleeveless top because such style is “inviting.” Maybe it’s time that parents teach their children not to violate the rights of other people instead of limiting their child’s actions. Equally disturbing is the “boys will be boys” statement, as if men are incapable of forming rational judgments and are operated solely by raging hormones. For one, such an alibi strengthens impunity and saves the perpetuator from legal consequences. This is not to say that men are immune from sexual violence of any kind, but that’s an altogether different story. Heard of the Santa Barbara shooting incident by Elliot Rodger, who blamed his agony on women who didn’t reciprocate his feelings? Funny how some men see women as inferior creatures that are obliged to give them what they want; as objects who owe them something. No wonder victims of rape think twice about sharing their experience. Not only are they unsure that justice will be given, but they are also likely to be subject to judgment and mockery. In a case study conducted by psychologists about post-traumatic stress disorder, a victim of rape has been found to feel extreme guilt. She thinks the style of her clothing caused the perpetuator to rape her. Indeed, rape culture is pervasive in the Philippines. Ironic how people talk about minimizing violence of any kind but unconsciously promote rape culture. The point is: Regardless of your gender, clothing, color, and lifestyle, you do not deserve to be raped or violated. Perhaps people lack the imagination—what if the person harassed is your friend, sister, or cousin? Would you still lecture her of the should not have’s? Or would you rather defy groupthink, see the issue from different angles, and empathize?C Photo by Jigo L. Racaza and Paul Clinton B. Balase

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ecause she’s promiscuous. Because she often attends parties and gets inebriated. Because she prefers wearing skirts. Because she went out with men she barely knew. She deserves it. View the comments section of a news article involving rape and tell me if you haven’t read responses of this nature. Remarks that trivialize rape and place the blame on the woman. Guess what? Rape takes place when sexual contact occurs without the other person’s consent. Period. No if ’s and but’s. It is a form of assault that’s not supposed to be portrayed humorously and taken lightly. Upon reading a CNN report about a teenager who was raped during a party after she was drugged and rendered unconscious, I was appalled to see that people’s comments focused on: why she went with a group of men, why she was allowed to drink, and why she went to the party. Talk about victim-blaming and rationalizing rape at its finest. If a person was mauled and murdered while walking in a dark alley, would you blame him for taking the said path during the wee hours instead of chasing after the suspect? Why, then, do people seem obliged to find the fault in the victim? Maybe this can be explained by the “just world” phenomena, which attributes a victim’s misfortunes or triumphs to his/her actions. While it is applicable in some cases (e.g. a person becomes economically advanced because of perseverance), such a way of thinking can be dangerous. For instance, people simply assume that a woman deserves to be raped because of her lifestyle and clothing. “Malandi kasi.” Horrifying that people think that their fellow human beings deserve to be assaulted. Perhaps people think this way because it makes them feel invulnerable – a belief that ends up strengthening rape culture. “I won’t be raped or harassed because I don’t do this and that.” I’m especially alarmed when people comment that “she asked for it” or that “she’s a willing victim.”

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By Jose Angelo Lorenzo S. Gomos

Design by Ben Clark B. Balase

ng wikang Filipino ay identidad nating lahat. Hangga’t may Filipino, may Pilipinas,” states Rogelio Gawahan, PhD, chairperson of the XU Filipino Department. Last year, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) released Memorandum Order No. 20 or “The General Education Curriculum: Holistic Understanding, Intellectual and Civic Competencies” which entails the exclusion of Filipino subjects in college education. As the national language, Filipino being eliminated from the college curriculum on 2018 was met with mixed reactions. Effects on education Lady Mae Mendoza (BSED 3) comments on its effects to the teachers, “Kapag pagtimbangin ang effects, mas marami’ng negative consequences na mangyari [sick]. Isa sa mga ito ay ang posibilidad sa pagkawalan ng trabaho ng mga guro.” To avoid the displacement of Filipino teachers in the tertiary level, CHED is working with the Department of Education) and the Department of Labor and Employment. CHED Chairperson Patricia Licuanan announced in a recent press statement that they are in the process of ensuring that college Filipino teachers will be transferred accordingly to senior high. This revision is in accordance with the K-12 curriculum with its addition of two years in high school. Core subjects in the tertiary level are transferred to senior high which is comprised of grades 11 and 12 and is split into four semesters each year. According to the revised General Education Curriculum (GEC), Filipino is not the only subject that will be removed from the list of required subjects in the tertiary level. Article 1 of GEC delves into the portion of the curriculum common to all undergraduate students regardless

of their major. Other core subjects – English, literature, mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, general psychology, and basic economics – will be taught in senior high and learned differently from their college counterparts. They will continue to cater to college readiness standards for high school students and prepare them for employment after graduation. In addition, a core subject will be taken by college students only if it’s in line with their particular field. For instance, students majoring in psychology will take general psychology as the introductory course. Math subjects will be taught only among students majoring in mathematics, as it is with Filipino subjects for students majoring in Filipino. Licuanan adds the idea of focused specialization in college education as the thrust of the new curriculum. Those who enter college under this curriculum will have to enroll exclusively in the main courses of their major. Medium for instruction The 1987 Constitution explains that either Filipino or English can be used as the country’s medium for instruction. CHED provides nine units in college that can be taught in either Filipino or English. Most of these include: Pagunawa sa Sarili; Mga Babasahin Hinggil sa Kasaysayan ng Pilipinas; Ang Kasalukuyang Daigdig; Matematika sa Makabagong Daigdig; Malayuning Komunikasyon; Pagpapahalaga sa Sining; Agham, Teknolohiya, at Lipunan; and Etika. Academic Vice President Lina Kwong notes, “The reason is not really removing it (Filipino subject) totally from the education sector but it is done and is moved to another level. If you consider Filipino subjects now, they’re usually taken up by freshman students. Since there

is already K to 12, the Filipino subjects will be moved to 11 and 12. In reality, there is nothing changed because the years in high school are added two more years.” Kwong also stresses the practicality of time and money spent for college education, “Adding Filipino subjects in the tertiary level despite having them in grades 11 and 12 will bloat up the curriculum.” Moreover, the new curriculum’s goal is for students to reach a certain level of adeptness in their choice of profession to reach global competitiveness. *** The national language is a reminder of our identity as Filipinos. As the lingua franca of the people from various regions, it helps define our nationality and spreads our culture throughout the ages. As they say, “Language is the foundation of unity and understanding between the people and the nation itself and the backbone of our culture and race.” The Philippines is also a resilient and adaptable nation. It continues to survive countless calamities, endure political corruption, and endeavor to be globally competitive. Filipino subjects may be excluded in college but such does not automatically diminish the people’s patriotism. This educational alteration will not hinder the country to meet its primary goals for development. Our culture may change, our language – although dynamic – may stay, but the Philippines will survive as a nation of citizens that continually find ways to build a promising future for the next generation by putting premium on education and valuing languages. As long as Filipino exists, so does the Philippines.C

Sources: “All Is Not Lost for ‘Filipino’ in College” by Patrick Quintos (www.abs-cbnnews.com) “The New General Education Curriculum” by Isagani Cruz (www.philstar.com) 4

Vol. 41 No. 1 July 2014

By Maria Karlene Shawn I. Cabarab Maria Karlene Shawn Cabaraban is a 2nd year AB Sociology-Anthropology student.

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motherland. I will be sent to a Filipino, Catholic, and Jesuit institution only to be sucked into an elitist culture that questions nothing. And I will be a loud and proud Donya Victorina, a pretentious primadonna, and blame the generation who raised me for failing to inculcate the standard characteristics of a model Filipino youth: makaDiyos, makatao, makabayan, makakalikasan. Has social media taught me of the Instagram Generation to be less mindful of the excess, to normalize abundance in quantity over substantial quality? But isn’t that how it should be? The more lavish, the more likes. Money cannot buy me happiness, but it can give me Starbucks Frappuccino, Krispy Kreme and J.Co doughnuts, and orgasmic steak from TGI Friday’s. Money can be my VIP ticket to Taylor Swift. And so what if I become the poster girl for capitalism? Has material objectivity limited my critical thinking? But the intelligence and independence of the “I” is a dying breed of philosophy. There is nothing blind about my faith in a decrepit system of justice. Contrary to popular belief, my sweet, trusting Filipino nature will not be exploited by apparent messiahs raping our motherland on a daily basis—leaders and politicians are not synonymous to criminals. And sarcasm? I implore you, Father, to abandon the refuge of the imaginatively bankrupt! You ask me: Where is social justice in the Age of the Katkat? Bless me, Father, for I have told her that there is no more room for her in the Magis Complex Canteen. The library is also full and so is Faber Hall. I detest all my sins because I cannot Photoshop them; I dread the loss of heaven and the pains of hell. I firmly resolve to study more and Instagram less, to confess my sins, to do penance, and to amend my life. Amen.C

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t is a truth universally acknowledged within the hallowed halls of this Filipino, Catholic, and Jesuit institution that our prayers have not delivered us from the evils of a virtually pretentious culture. Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. I cannot help that social issues fall short of the sugar and spice of social media. Akong sala, akong sala, akong dakong sala. What is an unwed mother being lectured on her promiscuity, and thus being humiliated in front of her family, compared to a hot-pink skater skirt being sold on Instagram for only 100 pesos? Who is Gigi Reyes and Janet Napoles beside the heavenly lingerieclad bodies of Victoria’s Secret Angels? How can photos of women and children lying cold and lifeless in a pool of blood in Palestine compete with the pain of seeing on Facebook the love of my life shacking up with some lipstick in tacky apparel? Father, I simply cannot give a carabao’s ass about my country when Zac Efron is shirtless on my iPad! Perhaps I will always be labeled as an opinionated delinquent who parades around the wizened corridors with my blockmates, voices raised to awaken the cadavers in the Nursing classrooms. I will stand in righteous mortification as my Philosophy professor berates me for texting in class, my red lips zipped shut as the cogs in my brain work to formulate a scathing Facebook status about the thoughtless, menopausal bitch who had viciously lashed out on my joy. I will always be shallow; the dying hope of an osteoporotic

By Mar y

agallanes and Antoinette M. M

Kimberley Mae

azing exists and it will never be crashed out from a fraternity.” This is the fearless claim of Clloyd Ahrnold Luna, a long-time member of the Tau Gamma Phi (TGP) Fraternity or the Triskelions Grand Fraternity. Luna does not deny the existence of hazing in their fraternity but he says that hazing, or physical torture, does not solely constitute their initiation process. “Tradition gyud siya. Hazing and antihazing [practices] exist in all fraternities. Sa amo, naa gyud ang hazing,” he states. According to Stop Hazing, an international hazing prevention advocate organization, 47 percent of students in the United States are hazed before they enter college; while three out of five college students are subjected to hazing, resulting in countless of reported cases. However, these statistics remain as mere numbers until embodied in real people and experiences. In the Philippines, fraternity members have been perceived as rebels without a cause and are connected with violence. The stigma attached to fraternities is usually unfounded and is solely

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rooted in the practice of hazing. However, in the realm of a society where judgment precedes reason and rumors precede facts, common perceptions on fraternities may be far from the reality that they experience firsthand. Initiation in two ways Jose Renante “Wewong” Manticahon (BSIS 4), chairman of the TGP Cagayan de Oro City Council, confirms the existence of hazing and anti-hazing practices as part of a fraternity’s initiation. An initiation may be done in the form of antihazing or hazing practices. The former includes following orders from senior members and creating projects that will benefit both the fraternity and larger community. It also requires neophytes to render community services such as cleaning classrooms in school and working in establishments in the city. Meanwhile, hazing challenges the physical strength of the neophytes, the most common way of doing so is using a paddle. Despite public clamor to abolish hazing, it is acknowledged as a longstanding tradition of

most fraternities. Manticahon explains that in their initiation rites, proper protocols are being followed. Hazing, as defined in the Anti-Hazing Law, is a “practice as a prerequisite for admission into membership … by placing the recruit in some embarrassing or humiliating situations such as forcing him to do menial, silly, foolish and other similar tasks or activities or otherwise subjecting him to physical or psychological suffering or injury.” He said initiators are guaranteed free from the influence of drugs or alcohol while hazing and that paddles can be used only on specified body points. Neophytes must also submit medical certificates to the frat members before the initiation. He clarifies that physical assault not agreed upon, such as punches and kicks, is strictly prohibited. Members who fail to follow such guidelines may be punished physically or be expelled. Joel*, a member of Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity, claims that although their fraternity had practiced hazing in the past, it is not the only basis for one’s admission to the fraternity. He adds that they currently focus more on servicing.

Vol. 41 No. 1 July 2014

week before the process and assigning two school representatives during the initiation. If a person suffers from physical injuries or dies due to hazing, participants of the initiation rites can be subject to penalties, the heaviest of which is reclusion perpetua or life imprisonment. Depending on the effect to the recruit, penalties range from reclusion temporal, prison mayor to prison correccional. Furthermore, school authorities who consent to hazing or have knowledge thereof will be punished as accomplices. The presence of any person during hazing with failure to prevent the occurrence of such will also be held liable. In a Philippine Daily Inquirer article, Valenzuela Representative Sherwin Gatchalian says the law is misleading as it does not prohibit hazing but only regulates it. He comments that the act has been ineffective in putting an end to hazing and in holding school administrators accountable.

Manticahon and Guarin say they are looking forward to gradually abolish hazing, which includes public humiliation, from their initiation practices despite it being an established tradition. “We’re not the only fraternity nga naa’y tradition nga ingon ana [hazing]… But as much as possible, ang [TGP] Cagayan de Oro City Council, anti-hazing gyud,” Manticahon explains, in light of recent events. “As much as I want, sa mga nangahitabo na… Gusto namo i-wala na ang hazing.”

The university’s stand Ivanell Subrabas, Director of Student Affairs, remains firm in the University’s stance of prohibiting organizations that practice violence in their activities. He adds that XU does not directly affiliate with any fraternity or sorority of any kind. “The university does not recognize fraternities and sororities. They may exist but they are not recognized by the institution,” he says, “Our code of conduct also states that physical assault or hazing is a serious and grave offense.” The University has not yet encountered any instances or reports of hazing, although fraternities existed since then. “The fraternities and sororities, we are aware that they exist but so far we have not received reports of violence done by these groups so we do not react to their existence,” Subrabas explains that XU neither bans the establishment of such organizations nor prohibit students to join, as long as they veer away from violence of any kind. He stresses that the University advocates peace, prioritizes the security and safety of its students and condemns any act of violence. *** They say staying is more difficult than getting in. There is more to fraternities than paddles, slapping, and hazing, as organizations of this nature are meant to establish brotherhood; help the community, and contribute to the members’ growth—not exalt pain and violence.C

Sources: Supreme Court Manila (http://sc.judiciary.gov.ph/) “R.A. 8049 or the Anti-Hazing Law“ By Cebu Daily News (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/) “Overview of Tau Gamma Phi and Tau Gamma Sigma” By Tau Gamma Phi University (http://www.taugamma.info/) “How Fraternities started in the Philippines? By Louie Blake S. Sarmiento (http://www.historum.com/) “Hazing In View: College Students at Risk” By Stop Hazing (http://www.stophazing.org/) “Solon seeks review of anti-hazing law” By DJ Yap (http://www.newsinfo.inquirer.net/)

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The law Republic Act No. 8049, otherwise known as the Anti-Hazing Law, aims to regulate hazing and other forms of initiation rites in organizations such as fraternities and sororities. The law states that, in an initiation process of any organization, a “neophyte or applicant must not be put in some embarrassing or humiliating situations or otherwise subjecting him to physical or psychological suffering or injury.” Moreover, the law allows hazing activities in schools but only under certain conditions such as: having a written notice to the school authorities or head of the organization a

Not just bruises and brawls While fraternities are usually associated with violence, they also implement community-based projects. Following their national organization, the Supreme Council, the Order of DeMolay Fraternity shares that they were able to contribute to the Hapsay Dalan operation and that they help through different government hospitals in the city. Jose Edgardo Uy, Task Force Hapsay Dalan chairman, recognizes the Order of Demolay as an enforcer of the traffic ordinance as part of their promise to uphold the laws of the city. In addition, they also distributed booklets of Traffic Violations & Penalties Sec 206 to the motorists. Joel proudly says that their fraternity focuses primarily on community services. As a newly elected officer of the XU chapter, he wants to abolish the hazing practices. “Dili na nako makita ang point or purpose sa hazing. Instead, gusto ko mag-focus sa values formation ug developing leadership skills,” he adds. Although their name has been dragged through into controversies—such as the recent hazing incident causing the death of a De La Salle University-College of St Benile student—TGP

Fraternity has engaged in different projects for the community. Rey Mar Angelo Peñero, Master Wielder of the Whip of TGP CDO, shares about some of their projects, “[A] yearly feeding program, community service, ug nakatabang mi sa Gawad Kalinga. Diri sad nga chapter, naka-hatag mi’g mga tsinelas sa uban lugar sa Mindanao.” Manticahon notes that TGP is one of the major sponsors of “RAPCON 2014 CDO Invasion,” an event of local artists that aims to raise awareness on bullying and violence among the youth.

By Louren B. Aranas and Melrein John D.R. Viado

Design by Jericho B. Montellano Photo by Evan B. Aranas

aghan kabag-ohan. Sa wala pa ko naSendong, wala ko’y pakabana sa community, wala gyud ko’y pang-lantaw… Ako lang gi-lantaw akong kaugalingon og unsaon nako pag-pangwarta,” says Alexie Colipano Sr., chairperson of the Xavier Ecoville Homeowners’ Association (XEHA), of the many kinds of changes he has observed since the resettlement community was established in 2012. Two years after Sendong, the community of survivors continue to rebuild their lives one day at a time. Adjustments Marivel Estenzo, chairperson of XEHA’s education committee, says aside from living in a relatively smaller house, the site being located uptown required the most adjustment. “Diri kay layo-layo na. Sauna, pamasahe nimo Php7 maka abot na [sa destinasyon], diri kailanga nka og Php50 back and forth para mamalengke lang,” she adds. A no-drinking-and-smoking policy imposed while the residents lived in bunkhouses has been recently overturned, Estenzo shares, provided that peace and order be maintained. As of September 2013, Ecoville houses 2,580 individuals in 568 permanent shelters. Despite the adjustments that come with moving to a new community, Estenzo prefers to live in XE rather than return to their old home, as the latter brings up unpleasant memories of the tragedy. She says, “Katong bag-o pa, bakikaw pa kaayo. Pero karon, natural na. Kaya nimo’ng hunahunaon nga mao nagyud ni imong puy-anan hangtod sa hangtod.”

Coping with challenges Aside from additional expenses brought by longer commutes, Colipano says medical emergencies pose a greater challenge. A resident’s survival, he shares, depends on the timeliness with which he/she is hospitalized. “Wala mi kasakyan padulong didto sa ubos (to the nearest hospital),” Colipano adds, “Kailangan gyud mi’g masakyan na anytime makuha namo [for] emergency transportation or [as a] multi-purpose vehicle.” For now, they seek the help of the barangay captain for swift transportation. When it comes to the residents’ livelihood, Colipano says it is greatly affected by the distance as most of them work downtown. He notes, “Kung mag-uli kada hapon, mahurot na ilang kita didto sa pamasahe … Unya ang Php100, unsaon na pag-pakaon, labi na kay pamilyado? Maglisod pa gyudog adjust kay an gmga tao wala pa’y sakto’ng panginabuhian.” To address the residents’ need to have a sustainable livelihood, plans are set on putting up a wet market that will also help lessen their transportation expenses when restocking on groceries. Meanwhile, although only a few houses have no electricity, majority of the residents have unstable water supply. They have submitted proposals for two reservoirs worth Php28 million which had been approved but wasn’t released, as the funds were allocated to other disasterresponse programs throughout the country. Beyond daily survival XE has also shown vast improvement. Concrete proof is the construction of facilities, such as the chapel, day care center, basketball court and livelihood center among others.

However, when one takes a closer look, XE is no exception to other “ordinary” communities facing social challenges. Efforts may have been made in fostering a sense of community spirit, though flaws still remain. Weeks after the devastation of ‘Sendong’, the residents were very active in participating in different programs prepared for them by the Xavier Community. According to Ryan Louie Madrid, XE’s project coordinator, cooperation among community members can only take shape as a direct effect of unity. With a group of families coming from diverse cultural and social backgrounds, the task of uniting them becomes difficult. This, perhaps, explains the dwindling enthusiasm among residents as they close in on the point of full recovery. “According to our consultants, it would take about five to ten more years for the community to be able to stand on its own,” says Madrid. *** XE’s foundation as a community may still shaky. Letting the community stand on its own without XU’s supervision may not be feasible if the goal is creating a real community -- thriving socially, economically, and ecologically, all of which XE envisions years from now. Two years have passed since the nightmare that was Sendong turned into reality. While it may be too early to conclude that the survivors have fully recovered, today is but another chance to continue building a self-sufficient and resilient community.C

Vol. 41 No. 1 July 2014

By Lorenzo Botavara

n the wake of a 14-year dictatorship that saw the collapse of the Philippine economy, the oppression of the Filipino people and the suppression of Philippine media, legislators of the 1987 Aquino administration devised a Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill which aimed to foster transparency among government officials. The bill promotes citizen participation in public affairs and grants the media permission to publicize financial reports and other official documents. However, it failed to materialize as the House of Representatives could not agree on various sections. After all, transparency could not have been as urgent a need as economic recovery when the country’s main priority was cleaning up after the Marcos regime. Twenty seven years have passed since the first FOI bill was conceptualized and we have yet to pass it in Congress. Much time has gone by as cases of grave misuse of the country’s finances sprouted– most notably the pork barrel scam–ballooned in number and severity.

The right to know Freedom of information is one of the pending policies that could dramatically change the country’s turn of events as people know more about the doings of those elected into power. It is an avenue for society to change its jaded view on the government and for society to fathom how dysfunctional it could be. With some reasonable exceptions, government officials must grant public access to disbursements informing citizens how tax is being spent. They will also be asked to translate key information in laymen’s term; such will be posted in the Official Gazette, saving the people from tedious work. The bill empowers citizen participation and can be used as a weapon in abolishing corruption, one of its key uses. In fact, Grace Poe, Chair of House Committee on Public Information and Mass Media, says the FOI law could have helped expose the Php10 billion pork barrel scam by preventing it in its early stages.

Out of the senate, into the congress The passing of Senate Bill 1733, or the Freedom of Information Bill of 2013, was unanimously voted for by the 22 senators present at its final senate reading onMarch 10. The bill is to undergo dreaded Congress readings—a stage previous FOI bills never got past. However, House Committee Chair on Public Information Jorge Almonte mentioned that he is 80 percent sure that the House of Representatives can fashion out a Freedom of Information bill by the 16th Congress. *** The Aquino administration has received heavy criticism for its inconsistent support of the bill’s passing for its campaign slogan “Kung Walang Corrupt, Walang Mahirap” highlighted transparency as one of the priorities. Nevertheless, Filipinos deserve clarity in the government in the same sense that the students are worthy of a transparent school administration. Think of the school as a miniature version of a country, or rather as a part of one. Regardless of analogy, the effect of transparency does not change as it still encompasses the fact that good governance requires public trust, which is attainable by transparency—a transparency long overdue. It is clearly (pun intended) a want and a need because in such matters, knowledge – not ignorance – is bliss.C

Sources: “‘80% chance’ House will pass FOI bill – public info chair,”By Angela Casauay “Freedom of Information – FOI,”Center for Media Freedom & Responsibility “Grace Poe: FOI could have prevented pork scam”By Chiara Zambrano “FOI Advocates to Admin: Speed up FOI Bill Passage”, Alternate Forum for Research in Mindanao Crusader

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Design by John Niccolo A. Aquino

FOI in the campus level If the total transparency the bill bestows upon our nation is realized in both public and private schools, irregularities in teachers’ salaries and misuse of educational funds, among other anomalies, are more likely to be exposed and addressed. The same could be said for the usage disclosure of miscellaneous fees each student pays every semester: such as those for parent-teachers associations, extraand co-curricular organizations, and the Central Student Government. Students from private schools enjoy a form of transparent administration in a sense that everything

that is paid for is accounted for through official receipts and the like. Involvement is a nonexistent issue as most events, particularly in XU, are organized by students. If the FOI bill were to pass in Congress, students will be more aware of government affairs, as officials will be mandated to comply with the request for documents within 15 working days. Will we see scanned documents on Instagram with obligatory hashtags, #taxniyoto #walangbinulsa? Furthermore, student activism will be empowered as a result of the boosted democracy that goes along with FOI; this entails bolder statements, advocacies and activists.

By Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas

ou will have land, farmers” was President Benigno Aquino III’s promise to the farmers, as remembered by Joseph Coles, a member of agrarian reform group Task Force Mapalad. As the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) has surpassed its June 30 deadline, its fate to achieve rural development and to expound on farmers’ rights is still undecided. In an effort to extend the land acquisition and distribution component of CARP for another two years, House Bill 4296 has been certified as urgent by President Benigno Aquino III. The 26-year program has encountered scrutiny over the years, as the promise to distribute 7.8 million hectares of land to the farmers has yet to be fulfilled. It now faces the possibility of a second extension.

Coles explains that farmers help mitigate the issue on climate change through diversified farming systems, which are farming methods that help maximize the land and natural resources to achieve better crop production. “Hindi simple ang role nila na magbigay ng pagkain para sa atin. Hindi lang pagkain ang binibigay nila sa atin. Sila din ‘yung may mga malalaking role sa pag-mitigate nitong issue sa climate change. Sanay sila’ng magtanim sa mga diversified farming: ito’ng style of farming na malaking tulong para sa mitigation of climate change.” Additionally, Arsenio III Meneses, secretary of the Department of Communications Management of the Central Student Government (CSG), states that the treatment of farmers shouldn’t be underestimated, as they handle crop production. Without farmers, high-quality crops would be scarce, making healthy and proper food production difficult while also posing a threat to food security.

Impact outside the farm While CARP is directed toward farmers, its role goes beyond the hectares of agricultural land. Land distribution plays a role in the development of healthy crops, alleviation of farmers’ hardships, and climate change.

CARP simplified The main objective of the CARP was to provide landless farmers with agricultural land that they could own and cultivate to alleviate their financial conditions. This was made to maximize the land in the area, as some landholdings have

been abandoned and have become fallow. CARP doesn’t only focus on equitable land distribution but also on establishing economic-sized farms across the country that would become the basis of Philippine agriculture. CARP was signed into law by former president Corazon Aquino on June 10, 1988. It entails that landholdings that exceed 24 hectares would be issued Notices of Coverage (NOC), a document informing landowners that a portion of their land is covered by the program. These landholdings would be distributed for ownership to farmers at the use of their own discretion. Identified as agrarian reform beneficiaries, farmers have to be at least 15 years old and own no more than three hectares of agricultural land to be qualified and are screened by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR). Due to the provisions that were done upon reaching CARP’s deadline on 2008, the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms (CARPER) or Republic Act 9700 was passed. It gave an extension of five years to distribute the desired quota of landholdings and included provisions that clarified the execution and breadth of the law. CARPER allowed acquisition and distribution of lands so long as NOC are given on or before the June 30 deadline. Flaws of the system Despite what the program envisioned for the people, its capacity to deliver its goal was challenging, as its promise to deliver the 7.8 million hectares of land to the farmers has yet to be reached. According to DAR’s latest statistics, a total of 906, 652 hectares of land is still available for acquisition and distribution.

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During the two weeks before the June 30 deadline, DAR promised to offer at least 50,000 hectares with NOC. According to Coles, the quota DAR promised was the lowest so far in history. “Pinakababa na gani na, 50, dawat pa gihapon mi. Dawat pa gihapon mi kung ma-cover iyan sa DAR, ma-isyuhan ng Notice of Coverage. In fact, nag tulongan na nga kami. Iyon lahat ng mga area naming na nandoon iyong Task Force Mapalad tinulungan iyong DAR sa mga research para ma-isyuhan talaga ng Notice of Coverage ang mga lahat na area,” he comments. “Ginawa namin: sinulit namin ang lahat ng data. At the end of the day, mga last week of July, sinabihan kami, ‘iyong sinulit ninyo’ng data, na-issuehan na naming last…five years ago. Tapos na. Wala na.’” Lost and damaged documents such as land titles also hinder DAR to issue the required number of NOC. Coles notes that this problem could work to the advantage of large landholdings’ owners. “The problem pa naman, ito yung mga areas, ito ang mga landholdings na malalaki. Iyong mga maliliit, halimbawa si Pedro, dahil maliit, iyon ki-nover! Si Juan, dahil malaki, influential people, daming rason! ‘Hindi natanggap, kulang sa mga ganoon. Wala dito ang may-ari [kasi] nandoon sa America.’”

the business sector, also corporate organizations. [But] They also have to have their own [land]. Gusto makita namo na atong farmers, naa sila’y kaugalingon na farm. So if you say livelihood or if you say income generating by tilling, I think it’s different if sila gyud ni tag-iya.” Coles explains the struggles that farmers face with the possibility of CARP being discontinued, and how they would rather fight back than accept their present reality. “Binubuhis na nila ang buhay nila. Sabi nila, ‘Dito nalang kami sa Maynila. Maglakad na maglakad nalang kami papuntang Maynila, kontra mag-standby kami doon sa farm nami’ng sinasakahan na hindi naman sa amin.’ Wala naman mangyayari kasi hindi naman pupunta ang DAR doon na magbigay sa kanila ng titulo. Dahil makukuha nila ang titulo sa mahaba-haba process na struggle. Otherwise maghintay sila na wala naman mangyayari. Mamatay nalang sila, lubog pa rin sa utang.” *** Land reform is a tool for narrowing the gap between the rich and the poor. With CARP’s loopholes, an extension of the distribution and acquisition of lands will most likely entail the same problems. Vast changes in the law itself and strict implementation, instead, could achieve change people had been pining for years—empowerment of farmers and strengthened agricultural sector, which plays a big role in the country’s economy and food security. Farmers are the movers of agriculture. As their needs are neglected, social justice may just be a concept we often hear but is not concretized.C

Design by Keith Obed J. Ruiz

Reaching out Movements have sprouted to build pressure on equal land distribution and to express solidarity with the farmers. One of these is the Ateneans for Agrarian Reform Movement (AfARM) spearheaded by the CSG, Kristohanong Katilingban sa Pagpakabana Social Involvement Office (KKP-SIO), and the College of Agriculture

Student Council. An initiative of Buklod Atensita, an organization of all Ateneo student governments, AfARM focuses on raising awareness about agrarian reform among the students. In XU raising awareness had different channels—roomto-room introductions, a prayer rally, “Walk the Chalk” that allowed students to express their thoughts on CARP through chalk art; and a forum led by the Kristohanong Katilingban sa Pagpakabana-Social Involvement Office, Oro Youth Council and CSG. Members of the community also joined the signature campaign, the results of which from all Ateneo schools would be compiled at the Ateneo de Manila University. It signified the support of Ateneo schools for just agrarian reform. Farina Roa, Program Officer of the Issue Advocacy Program unit of KKP-SIO, mentions the importance of paying attention to the needs of farmers. “Imbis na sila ga provide og food that we eat daily, sila wala. Wala sila’y lands. So makita na galisod sila. That they are poor in that way. So the core value na preferential option for the poor comes in. Tungod kay firm man mi ana na value na mas muprefer mutabang sa mga poor kay nakita namo na kinahanglan man sa mga farmers na ipasabot sa issue. Ipasabot pud na naa’y government agency also that is trying to help, that is trying to consolidate their needs.” Roa adds, “Makita man gyud na the farmers also need places to live in. Yes, they can till the land for

Sources: “CARPER (Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms) RA 9700” Department of Agrarian Reform (http://www.dar.gov.ph) “Q and A on CARP” Department of Agrarian Reform (http://www.dar.gov.ph) “Aquino to Congress: Extend agrarian reform deadline” By Pia Ranada (http://www.rappler.com) “271,000 hectares not yet covered by agrarian reform” By Pia Ranada and Bobby Lagsa (http://www.rappler.com) “What are diversified farming systems?” UC Berkeley (http://www.dfs.berkeley.edu)

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slam is said to be the fastest growing religion in the world. There are over 1.2 billion Muslims. That is, one out of five people is a Muslim.

As Kagay-anons, meeting or befriending Muslims is common, especially when so many have moved permanently in the city throughout the years. Similarly, the large number of Muslim students in XU makes it almost impossible to not have at least one Muslim classmate. In a country bombarded with crime reports wherein, if the suspects are Muslims, the emphasis is put on their religion, people can have skewed perceptions about Muslims. Some say Muslims are to be feared because they are barbaric while others admire Muslims for their kindness and generosity. Focusing on their religion, who are these people and what are they really like? The Crusader has sought the opinion of junior AB English student NorJamal Batugan—who is a hafiz or has memorized and understood the Qur’an— and other students from XU to clear some misconceptions about Muslims and Islam.

Design by Jericho B. Montellano

Are all Muslims aggressive?

This is perhaps one of the biggest misconceptions there is about Muslims. Due to recent ill-fated events, many have perceived Muslims as people who thrive on hate and violence. For example, when a person offends a Muslim friend, one will most likely receive statements intended to be humorous, such as “Pag-sorry, kay ipa-ambush gyud ka sa papa ni [insert Muslim friend’s name.]” This is said in jest, of course, but it gives a glimpse of how people see Muslims. Muhammad, however, has described Muslims as “the ones with whose hands and tongues people are safe.”As written in the Qur’an, the said religion teaches its followers that “whosoever harms a single soul then it is as if he has harmed the whole humanity.” “Kung aggressive kami lahat, laging magkakagulo tuwing tinatawag kami ng utility na hugawan [at] pag nag a-abdas [ablution] kami o kaya tuwing napipikon kami sa DVD na biro,” remarks Aisah Mama, sophomore psychology student, as she recounts her experience of being called hugawan or messy after washing parts of her body in the school’s comfort room, hence leaving the floor slippery. Such practice, in preparation 12

for formal prayer, is called Wudu. The aggression of a particular group of Muslims is not representative of the entire culture, as any person can be violent regardless of faith.

By Ainah Fatima Datu-Ramos

Do Muslims hate Jesus and do they condemn other religions?

“Abi nako sa una kay dili ganahan ang Muslim kang Jesus kay dili baya sila ga-[celebrate og] Christmas. Then dili daw lagi ipagdayon ang mag-uyab kung Muslim ang usa then Katoliko ang isa,” shares sophomore psychology student, Anne Borres. Muslims are often mistaken as Christ-hating people. Contrary to that notion, Muslims do believe that Jesus was one of Allah’s messengers. According to Batugan, “You cannot be a Muslim unless you love Jesus more than you love your mother, father, your whole family and even the whole world.” Batugan explains on the similarities of two of the widest religious denominations in the country, “Jesus is very dear to us and we believe that he will come back to save the whole humanity and I think that is a common ground that we share with our Christian brothers and sisters. It doesn’t entail that because we don’t worship Jesus, we don’t love him. We don’t worship Muhammad but we love him, and it’s the same with Prophet Jesus.” Regarding Muslims condemning other religions, Batugan shares a verse in the Qur’an that says, “Do not discriminate those who worship others besides Allah because they will in turn discriminate you.” Does Islam promote terrorism and crime?

Islam is from the Arabic word silm or salaam which roughly means “peace” or “to make peace” but due to the actions of some Muslims that caused unfortunate events, the word “terrorism” has become synonymous

with Islam as well. “It is quite unfair,” says Batugan, “that the words terrorism and terrorists have become special terms reserved for Muslims and Islam. In fact, if you would look at what is happening in Palestine, Burma and what happened in Iraq and in Afghanistan; hundreds of thousands of families were killed and displaced. But the ones behind these crimes aren’t seen as terrorists, in fact, they’re seen as liberators of the world but if one Muslim commits a crime, the whole Muslim community pays the price.” ***

Judging a person just because they appear to be different from what we perceive to be normal leads to inequality. We can only eradicate these stereotypes once we all learn how to treat others the way we want to be treated, regardless of our differences and beliefs.C Vol. 41 No. 1 July 2014

by Xian Louis

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No place to play Seeing the recent success as a springboard for more opportunities, the team trains regularly to improve. Villa says that aside from trying to find a common schedule for training, finding a place for training is also a struggle. “Sometimes we train here [in XU] depending on the collected funds that we have because we all chip in to pay for the field. We have to pay even if we already have players coming from your school. Right now, we are trying to set up an [organization] so we can use the field for free.” CDORFC also practices at the Pelaez Sports Center. Unfortunately, the Rafters did not receive any

support from the city government despite having ‘Cagayan de Oro City’ affixed in the team’s name. Similarly, the provincial government has not expressed interest in supporting the team because, according to Villa, they’re carrying the name of the city, not the province. They bear the name “CDO” Rugby Football Club and not “Misamis Oriental” Rugby Football Club. Beyond the field Aside from being active in sports, CDORFC devotes their efforts to charity work. Villa says they advocate the welfare of children, especially those who are financially unable. “We did visit an orphanage and carry out community outreach programs. We also donate blood in Northern Mindanao Medical Center. One thing we’re looking much into is to do a charity dinner for a little kid with leukemia. We’re in the process of doing that now,” he shares. Within the region, CDORFC has also conducted sports clinics and trainings in different schools. They have started a program, “Get into Rugby,” which focuses on encouraging and teaching rugby football to children, ages 8 - 16 years old, in Northern Mindanao. *** Amid the challenges, Villa is positive that the rugby football scene in the city will prosper. He states, “A lot of athletes stick on what they already know, but we’ve proven that even if our players hadn’t known anything about rugby, they won a national game.”C www.thecrusaderpublication.com

Sources: “High hopes for Oro’s Rugby Football Club,” by Erwin M. Mascarinas

Victorious underdog “The guys played with a lot of heart even if we had five players who were injured, including our MVP (Most Valuable Player). I even had to play because we won’t have enough players,” recalls Noel Villa, coach and team founder of the Cagayan de Oro Rugby Football Club (CDORFC). Also known as the Rafters, the CDORFC was formed only nine months ago. They trained for only eight months, with players having little to no experience of rugby football as most were used to playing different sports. The rookie team clearly appeared as the underdog compared to their opponents, the more experienced varsity players of the University of Makati. Winning the Shield Division of the Philippine National Games (PNG) 2014 Rugby 7s on May 17, the Rafters dominated the match (27-5) against UMak Herons B.

Rugby football in XU “We’re really hoping that the sport would be included in the [University] Intramurals,” states CDORFC member Miguel Murillo (BSIE 4) The team has 15 players from XU, six of whom have played in the PNG. The members are hoping to popularize the sport in the university. By comparison, Ultimate Frisbee–also a relatively new sport– has made its way to the Intramurals scene in a span of two years. Even if rugby football is a less popular sport in the country and is usually played by non-Filipinos, Villa encourages that XU have its own team. “Rugby has been made into an Olympic sport, that’s why the Philippine National Games is including it in their list of games,” he says. “They want to outsource Filipino players that would later represent the Philippines. For XU to have a rugby team would be a big benefit to the university.”

Design by Francis Ryan O. Avellana

o, it’s not the addictive substance sniffed by street children. It’s a competitive team sport with a few principles similar to football. It made its way to the Philippine sports scene through the formation of the Philippine Rugby Football Union. The sport’s growing popularity eventually led to the formation of a national team. Dubbed as the “Philippine Volcanoes,” the team won in international competitions. Since then, a lot of local Philippine rugby clubs have started to emerge. Cagayan de Oro City is no exception.

er Patrick R Arcay

Vol. 41 No. 1 July 2014

Photo by Paul Clinton B. Balase

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D. Amador, By Jose Luis Martin d C. Bacungan III an Romulado Manuel H. Bagayas Samantha Isabelle

espite the steps XU has taken in technological advancement to speed up the enrollment process, long lines continue to be a common complaint. But the problem does not lie in long queues per se. The Student Life Cycle Management and Information System (SLMIS) is projected to be the solution to the enrollment system’s slow progress, though it has yet to achieve its full potential. While SLMIS’ lack of full optimization seems to be the culprit of the enrollment system leaving much to be desired, other factors can be attributed to the enrollment’s much needed efficiency. What, exactly, are the kinks in the system? SLMIS in a nutshell Harriet Fernandez, Director of the Computing and Information Services Office (CISO), explains the purpose of SLMIS: “That’s why it’s a Student Life Cycle Management and Information System, because it will handle now the life cycle of the students. From the moment the student will enter Xavier University, up to the time that he will become [an] alumni [sic], the SLMIS will be the one to manage that … So we want a new, holistic recording of the activities--academic or non-academic.” SLMIS is a system created by PeopleSoft Campus Solutions, “a set of modules that address the central student, faculty and human resource or personnel needs of the university.” It is developed by Oracle Corporation. The term SLMIS is coined to distinguish XU’s system from other systems being managed by PeopleSoft Campus Solutions. The University has started using SLMIS during the second semester of 2012; one of its main purposes is to accelerate the enrollment process. The system can also oversee the organization of academic activities and give easy access to academic and financial records online to teachers and students, thus, making their stay in school more convenient. Among the various systems that were proposed and underwent the bidding process, SLMIS was chosen due to the features that it can offer. Representatives from XU gathered to evaluate the available systems and grade these according to their ability of meeting long-term requirements of XU’s sectors. The university also aimed to align its standards with those of other top universities in the list of Association of Southeast Asian Nation (ASEAN) countries. Aside from XU, two universities—University of the Philippines and De La Salle University—are using PeopleSoft Campus

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Keeping up with the system With different views from both the staff and the students on the enrollment system and the usage of SLMIS, these lead to one question: How does SLMIS compare to the computer systems of universities that are considered at par with XU standards? The Ateneo Integrated Student Information System (AISIS), used in Ateneo de Manila University (ADMU), possesses a degree of functionality not yet attained by the SLMIS. Its functions are similar to the system of XU, though with a few key differences. AISIS enables a student in ADMU to enroll, add or drop subjects, pay tuition fees and remaining balances, and keep track of their disciplinary obligations. “Everything we need is just a click away. Enrollment takes a minimum of five seconds lang. Also, we can opt to pay our tuition online. AISIS na ga-facilitate since we just have to click the button sa among payment mode of choice,” states Manny*, a student from ADMU. “For someone like me na from the province, I don’t need to fly to Manila just for enrollment. Very efficient siya and accessible.”

Despite the features that AISIS currently offers to the students of ADMU, it’s important to mention that it has been used since 2006 while the SLMIS is only on its second year. Joseph Sabal, head of the Management and Information Systems unit of CISO, sheds light on comparing each university’s enrollment systems, “If you want to compare [our] enrollment systems with the other systems, we can’t really compare them with technology because what drives technology are the processes of the organization. Like, for example, in our case, for Xavier University, we have different advisement rules; like how Xavier evaluates an enrollee is different from how ADMU would evaluate their enrollee. For instance, you would say that Xavier takes a longer time to enroll. Now, was it really just the system or was it the process? Even in Xavier University, the enrollment times differ from college to college. We have the same SLMIS but amongst the colleges, the enrollment times differ.” A glimpse of the future According to Angel Navarro, Assistant Analyst Programmer at the Management Information Services of CISO, the system is ready in terms of features; the roll-out process, however, prevents total access to the system. Factors such as paperwork and partnerships with banks, offices in the university, and agreement over plans contribute to its slow implementation. The rolling-out process involves several phases, each with a specific module. The modules that SLMIS has already rolled out are student records, financials--- which allows students to see their assessments online---- and the grade book. For now, teachers are only mandated to submit their final grades on SLMIS, though trainings on usage are held to encourage teachers to maximize the system to their advantage. They are currently working on contributor relations, campus community and online payment. *** The SLMIS still has a long way to go. Fernandez claims that, in three to five years, the SLMIS could be fully utilized. Perhaps the problem does not lie solely in developing an online system, but also in each college’s enrollment processes. Is it about time that the University re-evaluate the process they have grown accustomed to? Hopefully, a future free of long waiting lines, tedious officeto-office visits and different enrollment pains will soon be just a click away.C

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Adding, dropping subjects Expecting the SLMIS to hasten enrollment processes, some students say it is not being used properly. Complaints of this nature increase during the week allotted for the adding and dropping of subjects. John* explains why he finds that the system greatly needs to improve, “The only real use of the system is to check on my grades and balance for the semester,” he says. “Even when checking my class schedule, masayop siya sometimes, like when I add or drop a subject, dili siya diretso makit-an sa SLMIS account nako. I don’t know if sala ba siya sa evaluators, or maybe wala lang gyud sila na train properly.” He adds, “If the SLMIS was being used to its potential gyud, pwede na unta na kami na mag-add and drop ug subjects or even mag-enroll. I mean, even this sem, when I added only one subject, it took me over thirty minutes to finish.” On the system’s usability, Rechelle Barraquias, an instructor of the Development Communication department, comments that SLMIS doesn’t need a lot of training to be utilized. “You don’t need training na balik-balik with the SLMIS,” she says. “Once you get to know the task, dili naman ka kailangan mag refresher. It is easily navigatable man.” Barraquias, who has also been an evaluator for four years, adds, “Though SLMIS has its glitches from time to time, the long time it takes to add and drop a subject, a big chunk of it is the student’s fault. They tend to add subjects that they do not research about. They will sit down and say ‘I will add a subject’, without even researching if the subject is open.” She says lack of manpower could contribute

to the enrollment’s pace. “This year, one of the reasons nadugay is, there is only one staff member who did the adding and dropping for the college. Though we, teachers, were the ones who added subjects during enrolment; after enrollment, we had classes to attend to, so we couldn’t always be there for her (staff member).” Meanwhile, Rizo Mabelin, an evaluator from the School of Business and Management (SBM), says students in the said college take a shorter time—five minutes being the longest—to add or drop a subject. She shares on SBM’s enrollment process, “Ginarequire man gyud namo ang mga students nga kuhaon ang course number daan sa subject na ilahang i-add para diretso na mahuman ang process.” Students have also questioned why adding or dropping subjects entail fees. Barraquias answers that such fee is charged based on the reason. “Naa’y fee kung imohang reasons to change your subject is to follow your own whims. Pabayron ka ana kay you’re supposed to have your own block, and gusto gyud ka mag lahi tungod kay late ra kaayo ang subject or sayo ra kaayo.” Mabelin states, “Depende naman na sa Finance [Office] kay i-add na nila diretso sa balance (of the student). Depende na dayon sa reason nag-add or drop ka. There is no direct exchange of cash from student to evaluator.”

Photo by Paul Clinton B. Balase

Solutions in the Philippines. SLMIS, however, isn’t the first computer system that XU used to connect the students to an online database. Previously, the University used Enrollment Information System (EIS), which failed to meet the needs of the students due to the system’s restrictions, says Fernandez. “Unfortunately the old system, the EIS, cannot cater to the requirements of Xavier University. We want some features and functionalities to be added on the system but unfortunately we cannot do that. That’s why we, more or less, research on the features and functionality we want with the system. Previously, ang EIS, the recording is just on the academic activities of the students like the grades but when it comes to non-academic activities, it can’t be recorded on the system.”

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The longest swipe Days after the three-to-four week period for the processing and issuance of identification cards, students can still be found swarming the corridor by the Computing Information Services Office (CISO) at Campion Hall. When priority numbers are consumed as early as 8 or 9 a.m., a considerable number of students still use their old school IDs to enter the campus. Assuming that XU’s student population was considered while planning the schedule for processing student IDs, the queue along the CISO corridor only makes students think twice of the University’s system. This year, 10,200 students enrolled in XU. “Wala’y tarong ang [ID] process kay after mahutdan og priority number, nisulod ra dayon ang uban,” comments Camela* (BSDC 3) who got her ID processed after the deadline. The printing of IDs is not the only issue as the activation has also become a concern. A biology student who obtained his ID before the deadline had to wait for more than two weeks for its activation. “Mas na-una pa ug swipe akong friends nga mas late nagpa-ID kaysa sa ako,” he comments. “Ang problema man gud, kulang kaayo og manpower. ID processing is an essential service pero pila ra ka tao ang gi-hire?” The question is: Who should be held responsible for the process’ flaws? Did the students contribute to not completing the processing of their IDs within the allotted time? Or should the blame be put on the administration for underestimating variables which led to the failure of processing everyone’s IDs on time? An ocean within the campus “Students are no longer swimming in a river of information but rather, an ocean,” says Estrella

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Cabudoy, XU Library Director. Contrary to common student complaints’ of the library’s lack of resources, it has been active in updating its collection of information. Updates in the library’s software, which were made over the summer, grant students access to a wide variety of online databases both local and international. According to Cabudoy, 33 percent of the library’s resources can be accessed through student’s E-learn accounts. She adds that the problem lies not in outdated resources, but in reaching out to students above the first year level. “It is easy for us to disseminate information to the freshmen regarding the library’s status because it is a requirement for them [during the orientation seminar]. It’s hard for us to reach out to students from second year to fourth year, or even fifth,” she adds. Despite its reputation as a haven for sleepdeprived students, the library has been very active in ensuring that students are provided with all resources that supplement their learning. Water or wither Around twelve water fountains are strategically placed in the campus. Rumors on how its water is unsafe for consumption may be caused by the occasional presence of foreign objects, such as visible molds or chewed bubblegum, on the fountains’ surface. Hence, some students would rather have other sources for hydration. Contrary to rumors about the cleanliness of the drinking stations, the water that comes out of the fountain is proved to be clean and drinkable. According to Dr. Augustus Guitarte, Director of XU Health Services Office, the fountain contains free-flowing water from the Water District. Guitarte adds that no cases of students diagnosed with any water-borne diseases after drinking from the fountains have been encountered. “The water fountains are checked and cleaned every day,” says Engr. Rubelyn Valdehueza of the Physical Plant Office (PPO). She says they conduct tests twice a year to check both biological and chemical parameters in accordance to the national drinking water standards. Hold your bladders Some comfort rooms inside the campus have much to improve in terms of sanitation that students prefer to find a farther yet cleaner area. With sanitary problems such as dysfunctional toilets and lingering bad odor, it is ironic how much discomfort a comfort room can cause.

Valdehueza says, “All comfort rooms inside the campus are maintained accordingly.” She adds that the difference is in each building’s cleanliness is the number of users. A lot of things are considered in maintaining the school’s comfort rooms, one of which is repainting of the graffiti present inside the cubicle doors. She states, “When we find vandals, these are usually repainted immediately.” Each building is provided with at least one personnel to clean and monitor its condition. For her, the biggest challenge in maintaining comfort rooms is the students’ usage of such facilities. No elevator to success Complaints on how only several people have access to elevators have cropped up as well. A junior Business Administration student, Eloissa, comments, “Diba dako kaayo atong ga-bayran nga tuition? Ngano dili man nila ipa-on tanan mga elevator?” Ramil Pajo, Director of PPO, says the use of elevators inside the campus has been terminated because its sole purpose has been defied. Elevators were originally installed for the faculty members, staff and persons with disabilities (PWD). This is a policy consulted and approved by the University administration. “Majority of the students is still young and [able-bodied]. It is very good for their health to walk up and down the building,” says Pajo. He opines that not using the elevator conserves energy and conserving energy is a form of support for the Green Campus Agenda. The Green Campus Agenda refers to XU’s effort in instilling a sense of shared responsibility to the environment. It also serves as a venue for the community to reduce, reuse and recycle. *** While putting the blame on the school’s maintenance seems an easier option, gaps can significantly decrease if students remember that facilities are communal properties which everyone is expected to use responsibly. Services that spare students from inconvenience and unnecessarily time-consuming tasks may always be subject to improvement. While students are not encouraged to simply accept anything at face value, before pointing fingers and whining, it also pays to ask what you yourself are doing to help maintain the facilities and improve processes in this so-called second home.C

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hroughout the years, XU has been considered a training ground for prominent and creative people. Graduates of the University are considered movers and shakers of the society and, for 80 years, its Ateneo brand of education has been equated with competence. As much as people laud the school for its training, complaints about its services have also surfaced. While these services are usually overlooked, these contribute to a more conducive environment for learning and speak volumes about the school’s efficiency. Students begin to question if this is the kind of excellence the school is known for and if they’re getting the worth of their money.

By Romulado Manuel C. Bacungan III and Daphne J. Dujali

moke in my face and the city covered in waste”—a gross twist to a famous summer quote. Considering CdeO’s current environmental status, however, this line can’t be farther from reality. Both non- and biodegradable waste ready for disposal, such as plastic bags, left-over food, and even used diapers, flaunt around the city. Although specific groups are tasked to spearhead in addressing solid waste management, it is a pressing issue that involves not only the government but also the citizens. The breakdown “[Solid waste management] is important for a growing city like Cagayan de Oro,” states University President Roberto C. Yap, SJ, who is the head of the city’s Solid Waste Management Board (SWMB). Most people, he says, don’t realize the importance of properly segregating waste in minimizing its adverse effects to the environment and human health. Formed this year, the said board is responsible for creating policies and plans to address garbage problems. To increase knowledge on this environmental concern, Yap says the SWMB arranged campaigns to change the people’s mindset and attitude regarding solid waste management. However, knowing does not necessarily translate to doing. People may need time to internalize such knowledge and reach behavioral change. Yap expounds on its relevance,

“Just the fact that in the past two years you’ve had supermarkets, shopping malls and hotels come up and still being built, and of course the household waste, so you really need to have a good solid waste management plan to make the city livable, healthy, and sustainable.” Dumping the dumpsite Recently, the City Local Environment and Natural Resources (CLENRO) announced the closing of the city’s dumpsite located at Upper Dagong, Barangay Carmen. Landfill, the name it’s commonly known, turns out to be a misnomer. “Actually, it’s not really a landfill,” explains Yap. “It’s a dumpsite and there is a law, the Solid Waste Management Act, which regulated that dumpsites are not supposed to be allowed anymore. They should have been closed, I think, way back in 2005 or 2006.” According to CLENRO chief Edwin Dael, the dumpsite has caused a lot of violations under Republic Act 9003, which aims to establish segregation among garbage and wastes. He says, “It is an open dumpsite where it welcomes dangers to the nearby villages. The air that the people breathe around is unsafe because there is too much methane.” Yap says the SWMB is having a difficult time locating a site where a sanitary landfill will be built, simply because people refuse to have a landfill near their homes. “It’s very hard to go to a place and say we will put the sanitary landfill [there] because nobody wants the garbage site nearby because of the smell and all that hassle so that’s the problem,” Yap states. A sanitary

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The catch As the current site will cease its operation, where will the accumulated garbage be stored? Yap clarifies that the closing of the dumpsite will happen in phases. According to Nestor Banuag, SWMB Technical Working Group Vice Chairman, such closure doesn’t mean that a dumpsite will no longer be available. A major adjustment will take place in managing the 17 hectares of governmentowned land in Carmen which currently serves as the city dumpsite. “Twelve hectares ana mao’y nagamit karon sa basura, so ang plan is kung pwede dili na siya labayan ang bundok-bundok na nga basura,” says Banuag, who’s also the Faculty Program Officer of the Kristohanong Katilingban sa Pagpakabana-Social Involvement Office. “There should be an effective and efficient way to maximize the five hectares so our alternative karon, though subject pa siya for further investigation og study, our engineering research center will be part of the technical team to assess the area if safe pa ba siya labayan.” Banuag adds that the SWMB has a series of meetings and preparations to tap key institutions in the city. The Technical Working Group is currently looking into different barangays in CdeO, such as Pagatpat, Balubal, and Baikingon, as alternative dumping sites.

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‘No waste’ The decomposition of garbage involving the release of gases, particularly methane, which are harmful to the people and the environment, is one of the major reasons dumpsites are no longer allowed. On April 2014, fires have been reported in the dumpsite at Zayas, Carmen mainly because methane is a combustible gas. When a sanitary landfill will be built, factors such as the distance of the landfill to residential areas will be considered. “When you close a landfill, there are processes that you need to follow,” explains Yap. “Like you have to cover it with soil, plant a certain type of grass and put these pipes so that the gas have a place to vent, to escape, and so the methane that comes out is properly managed.” According to him, there is no such thing as waste. Plastics, for example, can be recycled and reused. The garbage in the dumpsite can be compacted and sold to cement factories as fuel. It is even possible to capture the methane that is emitted by the garbage and use it to produce electricity. Neighbor’s cry In line with the news of the current dumpsite’s closing, citizens in Bukidnon claim that acts of garbage “smuggling” have occurred. Garbage, allegedly from Lumbia, were being “smuggled” into Bukidnon and unpopulated areas. Concerned citizens from Bukidnon attest that garbage smuggling has been happening for quite some time. Some witnesses claim that corpses were also being dumped in the outskirts of the province. These acts can be seen as our city’s

disregard not only for Bukidnon’s environment, but for the entire environment in general. It demeans our city’s reputation for proper waste disposal. “This is not an isolated issue. It is also considered as one of the talking points sa among mga meetings,” Banuag clarifies. “Personally, it will not require a board para ni mahibal-an [nga issue]. It is a way of doing [binuhatan] sa uban tao.” He says people will always find ways to get rid of garbage if it is not collected. “It’s not a new issue but in different levels lang. Ang uban gapabayad lang sila kai gi-tolerate na man siya. It is a macro concern, not only for the government pero concern pud siya sa city ug sa tanan.” *** As president of a university who puts effort into becoming a greener campus, Yap encourages the XU community to become role models of proper waste disposal. “Xavier has the challenge to really show that we can do this at source, that we can lessen the waste that we produce and we can show practical ways to do it,” Yap notes. “In fact my appeal to the students is: if we can segregate more, if we can really keep our waste in the canteen for example to a minimum, it would be a big help.”C

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landfill is a site where waste is isolated until it is completely degraded, hence, the level of isolation needed is high. The location has yet to be specified by the SWMB.

By Nitzschia Cassiopiea Beroe A. Lozarita and Rezza Mae B. Tolinero

Design by Jericho B. Montellano

ducation is a right, not a privilege. Throughout the years, the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid (OSFA) has exerted effort to uphold the aforementioned statement. The office has long been playing a crucial role in the pursuance of education of thousands of scholars. Now, most of these scholars are already degree holders who are able to support themselves, their families, and even other scholars. As students pace back and forth in the campus, they unknowingly bump into diligent scholars whose main priority in life is to finish their studies and get a decent job. However, maintaining a scholarship until graduation is a difficult feat, as there are unseen struggles that they must face. Cream of the crop “When you are a scholar, it means that you are academically excellent and you are given an opportunity which rarely knocks on someone’s door,” says Karl Owen Sayson, a Business Administration student. True enough, scholars can be considered as today’s geniuses because of the way they maintain their scholarship despite grueling academic demands. Balancing priorities is simply part of their system and time-management is their specialty. However, not all geniuses get what they want. The hectic schedule, combined with requirements and organization involvements, makes maintaining a scholarship a challenge. Sayson, who enjoyed the benefits of an academic scholarship, lost

his access to free tuition and matriculation this semester. “I was lost in track primarily because I was a shiftee. I had quite a hard time moving on and I became very complacent.” If given the chance, he would like to reapply for a scholarship for the next semester. With a scholarship, he believes that as the eldest among all siblings, he can lighten his parents’ burden. Gift worth keeping Some scholars, on the other hand, do get what they want. Shiela Marie Dadula, a junior accountancy student, has been able to maintain her academic scholarship since her freshman year. “To be a scholar means being responsible because it’s like a power that should be taken care of. [When] taken for granted, one’s scholarship might be taken away.” She admits that her scholarship is of much importance to her because it’s a precious gift not just anybody gets. “It is of big help to my mother who is the only one supporting my studies. Dako jud kaayo ug tabang especially nga nag-board ra ko.” For her, the formula of successfully keeping a scholarship is maximum effort, time management plus constant prayer. Perhaps other scholars might follow different mantras to keep their scholarships but whether they keep it or not is in their hands and not in OSFA’s. The sportsmen Not all scholars are academic scholars. Some are members of the varsity team, trying hard to juggle academics and sports.

Despite the stereotypes reinforced in teen movies that athletes don’t take their studies seriously, *Legolas, a member of the university’s swimming team, strives to maintain his scholarship. For him, being a scholar requires a considerable amount of discipline; enough to comply with the conditions and demands of the scholarship. Moreover, he sees his scholarship as an honor and a privilege. “I’m helping my parents and myself. I get to compete and represent the university and at the same time, receive quality education with less expenditure.” *** Whether one is an academic or athletic scholarship grantee, the way they perceive their scholarship lies in the same spectrum—it is a gift, reward, honor and advantage. In a society where education is slowly becoming a privilege instead of a right, the importance of a scholarship could not be stressed enough. In a country where opportunities are heightened for those with outstanding performance, the values of students who put premium in hardwork are worth emulating. If more people were willing to sponsor the education of the scholars, then more students will enjoy the rare opportunity of experiencing education without having to break the bank. After all, maintaining a scholarship is not easy, but it is a risk worth taking and a gift worth keeping.C *Name withheld by request of anonymity.

Vol. 41 No. 1 July 2014

By Marina M. Garcia

yle Jennerman, a 26-year-old man often seen wearing a braided headband, has become a social media phenomenon in less than a year. He’s a Canadian citizen who, while living on his savings, stays in the Philippines for one purpose: becoming a Filipino.

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Learning and helping Jennerman was working in Hong Kong when he heard about super typhoon Yolanda and— upon realizing how immense the impact of the Filipinos had on him, decided to quit his job and fly to CdeO where he started packing relief goods for the survivors. Three weeks after ‘Yolanda’ hit the Philippines, he went to Taclobanwhere he met a family digging graves for their relatives. He says he was “beyond inspired” as the survivors were “courageously dealing with it (their situation), interacting with me in a positive way.“ He has never tried formally learning the language although he is almost fluent because of daily conversation. He prefers exploring things

by himself and uses public transportation despite people telling him of its dangers. He became more invested in the trip as people are “energetic to help you in into this culture and very enthusiastic about it.” ‘Killed with happiness’ With around 11,000 ‘likes’ in his Facebook page, Becoming Filipino, has become more than a personal blog. Recently, he was flooded with posts and more than 2,000 messages suggesting adventures and local delicacies he should try next. Some find his fascination with the Filipino culture in spiring and others say he’s more Filipino than them because of his experiences in just a few months. Although Jennerman is overwhelmed of the audience’s response, he always keeps one thing in mind: simplicity. He states that he came here to learn how to be a Filipino; to enjoy every moment, be happy and share that contagious smile to the rest of the world. *** In a country ridden with political crises, natural and man-made tragedies, and forms of injustice, seeing the Philippines through a fresh pair of eyes reminds us that it is still full of beauty and diversity. Jennerman has travelled around Cebu and Mindanao, where he has covered the totality of northern Mindanao. He plans to visit Central Visayas and, eventually, every region in the country. His heart, however, will forever be in CdeO- the place he himself considers his home.C

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Why the Philippines? His first exposure to Filipino culture started in Hong Kong, where he worked with around 15 Filipinos for an outdoor adventure company. He started to observe his Filipino workmates: How they worked so hard but had fun at the same time, how they enjoyed drinking together during the weekends, and how infectious their smiles were. On December 2012, when Jennerman and four of his friends decided to go on a South-Asian trip—Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam— one of his workmates suggested that he visit the Philippines. The proposition intrigued him and he thought, “Why not? Let’s do it!” The main reason Kulas— the local twist to his name he’s fondly called—fell in love with the country was its people. His face reflected happiness and sincerity while he recounted experiences and examples of how Filipinos had been kind and welcoming. Once, he arrived in Cebu during the wee hours of the night and found his workmates’ family, friends, and even strangers carry cards that read “We love you Kyle” and “Welcome to the Philippines.”The same group that sheltered and cooked for their guests at 3 a.m. Similarly, a tricycle driver showed him the same hospitality

by offering a serving of rice and a shot of rum during a random day. When he first experienced a fiesta, Jennermansays he was amazed by the people’s generosity in terms of food and hosting guests. “People are so giving here and that’s pretty inspiring,” he states. He adds, “I think Filipino culture has got it right. It should never be silly to love and care for each other, to support each other.”Among other traits Filipinos are known for, he says he is most inspired by the people’s positivity and their ways of helping each other. He noticed that it is normal for a 35-year-old to live with his family here. However,he will most likely be ridiculed if he moved back with his parents in Canada. Recalling his work experience with Filipinos, he also observed how they toiled to improve their families’ lives.

By Ma. Isabela A.C. Agawin and Robin Maeve T. Bacarro, with reports from Marina G. Garcia

Photo by Paul Clinton B. Balase

Clearing the water out Lennie Ong, University Treasurer, sheds light on common misconceptions about the allotment of the miscellaneous fees. According to Ong, miscellaneous fees are not consumed in one semester. They are carefully divided to fund many projects to develop the campus and its organizations. She cited the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) development as an example. Just recently, the Student Lifecycle Management and Learning System (SLMIS) is being used to make grades more accessible. It also shows students their schedules and school account balances. Maintaining the SLMIS is not a cheap job. “That thing alone costs more than Php13,000 a month and the fund for that came from the ICT fees of how many years so it’s not just for the collection of this semester because definitely, it will not suffice this one project.” Ong says. Ever wonder how you are able to connect to the Wi-Fi anywhere and at any time with just your name and ID number? Fiber optic wires are buried in networks underneath the school campus grounds. Ong says they will soon be working with cabling the buildings and each of the classrooms. All of which computes to a very substantial amount, excluding the software being used.

Design by Rico M. Magallona

hey say ignorance is bliss. Such can’t be said, however, on how the students’ money are being spent. While a big chunk goes to the tuition fee, a small slice is allotted for the miscellaneous fees. The question is: Where exactly does it go?

Don’t be in a cent Tuition fee increase is also being monitored by the University. Every year, XU charges a 5 percent increase. Ong explains, “If the student body, or the faculty, or the parents who are present in the consultation do not feel that our justification is

reasonable, then they, at that venue, can make representation to ask the school not to go through with the increase.” Fees that are not availed by the students are called restricted fees because they cannot be spent for other purposes. These are saved up for future uses of the school. Energy fees, for example, are used to pay for anything related to electricity all around the campus. Recently, the University has started burying the electrical lines of the campus. Parts of the university are old and when an energy audit was conducted, some areas were found to be overloaded— which increases the risk of fires and other accidents. The University has bought transformers and rewired the buildings. Everything is accounted for When asked if students are able to reimburse fees they have not availed, Ong responds with a no. “That’s kind of hard to calculate about who ought to get this or who ought to get that. There are no refunds unless the fees were collected as deposits. Then we are transparent in saying that these are refundable items.” Unless the whole student body requests for it, no refunds will be made. The University has taken steps to be as transparent as possible with financial records. However, there are bugs within the SLMIS which can cause miscalculations in fees; this concern is currently being addressed. If there are any miscalculations done in a student’s account, one is advised to approach the registrar’s office for clarifications. The feedback In a survey by TheCrusader among 400 students, results show significant differences regarding their takes on miscellaneous fees. Eighty four percent are aware that they avail of

the services they are paying for, while 11 percent say they do not avail of these the services given by the university. Among the 11 percent who say they don’t avail of the said University services, 71 percent share that they don’t have time to do so while 29 percent answer that they are unaware of where their payment goes. Thirty six percent say they are satisfied with the quality of services, while 64 percent say otherwise. Meanwhile, 78 percent find that these are beneficial to their studies. On the other hand, 13 percent find the amount of miscellaneous fees too expensive, Among the wide array of services, those offered by these units stand out: library, dental and medical clinic. 66 percent of the respondents regularly use the library, five percent make use of the dental service, while four percent maximize medical check-ups; 25 percent say they avail of most services including the Wi-Fi. As the library has the biggest take-up in the results, students pointed out the reasons they avail of its services: 76 percent answer that they complete academic-related work with its resources, while 24 percent say the library is an ideal place for passing time because of its features such as the Internet connection and airconditioning. *** The infamous Php10 billion pork barrel scam may just be the wake-up call the nation needed to keep watch of its treasure chest. While the budget may not be as staggering at a smaller scope, knowing how it is spent encourages transparency in the campus—the level big-scale changes are expected to root from. However, knowing the quality of services ought to be delivered is half of the game. To avail or not to avail—it’s our choice to make use of what is given and get the best out of it. In the same light, it ultimately depends on us if we become passive and receive services the University gives, or if we muster up the courage to demand improvement and suggest solutions to get what we pay for.C Vol. 41 No. 1 July 2014

Design by Keith Obed J. Ruiz Photo by: Evan B. Aranas

Design by Ben Clark B. Balase

ipping in deep, blue seas, walking along a stretch of fine sand, and hopping from one island to another- these and more bring the summer season to mind. Other young people, however, equate it to months of working with the government. For over 20 years, the Department of Labor and Employment has been implmenting the Special Program for Employment of Students (SPES) which aims to help financially unstable students pursue schooling. Spearheaded by the Public Employment Service Office (PESO), the program also aims to instill a sense of public service among the youth. In CdeO, SPES ran from April 21 to May 19. Students would be paid Php 4,000 for 20 working days. Although two months have passed since the program, more than half of the 2,500 students have yet to receive their salaries, thus generating malicious speculations. A new system With rumors spreading about the program, PESO sheds light on the actual agreement of the SPES contract with the participants and their parents. In a press release posted in the Official Gazette, the local government will pay 60 percent of the student’s salary in cash, while the Department of Labor and Employment is responsible for the remaining 40 percent which will be given in check or cash. However, Rey Tagotongan, head of the Community Affairs Office of PESO, clarifies that the contract did not specifically state how the 60 percent will be received by the beneficiaries. Last year, all the participants received the 60 percent in cash; this year, PESO wanted to ensure that the money will be allocated to the participants’ education. hey decided to directly issue the 60 percent to the students’ schools, priority being given to students enrolling in the next semester. They must also be able to submit a proof of enrollment to the city government and DOLE. The current administration believes that this was necessary in making education more

available to the youth. Beyond overdue Being active in the program for two years, Clarisse*, a third year development communication student, could not help but compare the services of the city government then and now. What inspired her to participate was her desire to further lessen her parents’ financial burden since she is already a full scholar of the university. She recalls that last year, she had received her salary three days after working at the PESO office; this year, her payment has been delayed for over two months. “Ipalit unta nako og school supplies pero since na-late man ug distribute (salary), wala ra gihapon nako nagamit,” says Clarisse. Tagotongan says the late submission of the

students’ Daily Time Record, PESO’s adjustment to the new system, and problems in check distribution are some of the main reasons for the delay in compensation. He elaborates that the delay is caused by the large number of participants and having to contact them individually for confirmation. The administration considers this year’s 2,500 participants a big difference compared to last year’s 800. Aside from acknowledging PESO’s responsibility for the lapses, Tagotongan explains that some of the participants contributed to the delay as they failed to submit their requirements on time. “We did try our best na ma-fast track ang tanan. Ang importante kay naningkamot ang PESO and we will be improving the system for the next years.” Process uncertainty “I think apil ang PESO employees kay naglibog sa ilang work,” claims Clarisse. She shares that different information is given for the same query and that the employees themselves appear unsure of the system. However, PESO Manager Kathleen Kate Sorilla foresees a smoother process next year. PESO also explains that paying the participants in cash was not the Standard Operating Procedure for the distribution of salaries; it was just a practice established by the previous administration. “Ang sayup pud namo mga SPES [participants] kay nagexpect mi nga pareha ra last year,” admits Clarisse. *** Perhaps when an old law meets a new administration, a lot of adjustment must take place. With a new set of employees and administration, the SPES has yet to successfully tussle through intricate government processes and public criticism. After all, SPES simply aims to help the financially challenged but deserving youth in pursuing their studies, maybe not perfectly through their system lately but in the years to come. *Name withheld by request of anonymity. Sources: “Republic Act No. 9547” (http://www.gov.ph)

Vol. 41 No. 1 July 2014

a r o C trabida: Con B

elieve it or not, great change has happened in our beloved University. After years of complaints and public demand, it’s finally happened. You can see it written on every wall and elevator; it’s hidden in every corner. Look hard enough and you might even see it in the bathroom. Whatever the problem, this monumental change is sure to answer all of your prayers. I’m speaking, of course, of the blue plates posted throughout the campus. Never mind the hundreds of outdated, coverless books in the library. Never mind that enrollment is as tedious and cumbersome as ever. Never mind that the most visible change XU can manage is a handful of blue plastic squares. Our illustrious university has found it fitting to provide advice to its student in the gentlest, most passive-aggressive way possible: by being present at every turn, ready to guilt you into obedience and mold you into the perfect Atenean. By all means, Xavier, go ahead! I relish the ease with which you dictate every facet of my life you don’t already control: to be ‘on time’ in a university of tardy teachers, to forsake the varied spectrum of individuality for the colors blue and white. But don’t mind me, there’s much that can be gleaned from these little blue life lessons stapled throughout the university. Of the ones I’ve seen so far, these are my favorite:

“Xavier time. Always on time.” I enjoy coming to class. I enjoy waking up at 6 in the morning for my 7:30. My calves have been beautifully sculpted by daily sprinting, making my way past disgruntled guards and undead students

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“Silence. Students are building their future here.” Monsieur, I believe your whistle has shattered more eardrums than it has built students’ futures. “I shield you from the sun and rain. Please shield me from the pen.” Aha, so I WAS talking to a wall! No wonder the messages were bland, rigid, and unoriginal. You’re pretty critical for a block of cement. What makes you think you can pass judgment when you’ve just sat there, far removed from the lives of students? We are dynamic, changing beings! YOU are the very embodiment of stagnant, selfrighteous apathy. I have half a mind to report you to the administration. …Then again, is there really even a difference?

*** Sarcasm aside (as if that were possible), I understand the purpose of these signs. One little reminder may be what stands between a wayward student and a violation. But if these plates actually yield a tangible result, you can color me surprised. When you decide to smack the students in the face with an image of the ideal Atenean, you better do it with the guarantee that you’ve provided them the best opportunities to become one. When you tout timeliness, efficiency, and cura personalis as your core values, you better make sure that every representative of your institution lives and breathes by those standards. When you seek to incite change, you better understand you can only get so far with good intentions. For all we know, the road to hell could be paved with blue plastic plates.C

“Wear your Atenean identity with dignity.” Yes, wear your Atenean identity with dignity, your actual identity stunk to begin with. Discard your individual beliefs and values; IGNATIAN’S all the rage right now! We’ve got a uniform that’s GUARANTEED to render you indistinguishable to your fellow classmates. That’s all it takes to assume the Atenean identity, right? Not initiative or self-discovery, but a white collared shirt and a pair of blue pants. We’ll even throw in years of formation classes to make the process of losing your soul much, much easier. Come, enter the fold. We promise we’ll never let you go.

Illustration by Rico M. Magallona

“Silence is the language of brilliance.” Translation: You’re a moron if you don’t shut up. According to this plate, intelligent people are SO brilliant that they’ve evolved past the use of verbal communication (telepathy, anyone?). You’ll have to excuse us primitive life-forms, we’re still reliant on language for communication. You can, however, save your ire for the most primitive of us; the ones who shout even when their friends are mere inches away.

(would they be here this early if they had a life?) just to know that class has been cancelled. Since when did the first day of class turn into an entire week waiting for it to start? I especially enjoy my teacher’s lecture on the virtue of patience when they have yet to appreciate the value of punctuality.

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D R O W S I R U K n ni Jigomo

ACROSS 7 The E in SPES. 9 Nickname of Kyle Jennerman 12 Kyle Jennerman is from? 13 English, literature, mathematics, natural science, general psychology, and basic economics. 14 Scholarship is an honor and a __. 17 Academic Vice President. 19 Senate Bill 1733. 20 The CDORFC also known as __. 21 Memorandum orderNo. 20 or â&#x20AC;&#x153;The General Education __:...â&#x20AC;? 23 SWMB Technical Working Group Vice Chairman. 24 CLENRO chief.

DOWN 1 The E in XEHA. 2 Chair of house Committee on Public Information and Mass Media. 3 Number of players from XU(Kick Off). 4 E in CLENRO. 5 Coach and team founder of CDORFC. 6 Head of the community affairs of PESO. 8 CHED Chairperson 10 Team dominated on May 17 by the Rafters. 11 Sins of the __ generation. 15 A 26 year-old man often seen wearing a braided headband. 16 Percent in cash recieve this year by SPES participants. 18 Shiela Marie __. A scholar. 22 Language is the foundation of __ and understanding.

To Join: photocopy this Kurisword with your answers and submit your entry to TheCrusader Publication office at StC 302 with your name and contact number. Lucky participants will receive limited edition collectibles. 28

Vol. 41 No. 1 July 2014

Ania na ang mga fresh horoscope nato karon mga friends. Ayaw lang mo ug ka-offend, kay kining tanan wala nako gi-intend. So let’s have fun while ang jokes gaulan. Larga balls! Aquarius (Sweet and hilarious, pero dili gorgeous) Due to public demand makauyab ra jud ka karong adlawa. Pero dako kaayo nga problema, dili musugot imong mama. Lucky Day: Kagahapon ra Lucky Color: Labhag Red Aries (Muwehehehe, kalamehehehe) Magsurprise exam imong titser karong adlawa, pero ayawg kabalaka sulbad na imong problema, tapad lang sa imong bright nga kaila. Lucky Day: Feb. 29, 194gotten Lucky Color: Pinkish Green Cancer (Ig-agaw ni Marteen Nivera – Cancert King) Naay magpa-sweet2x nimo karong adlawa. Ayawg pailad higala kay mangutang ra na sa imuha. Lucky Day: Pangutan-a imong mama Lucky Color: Golden Silver Capricorn ( Nawng murag creeps sa DotA) Atimana inyong silingan nga nagchange og wifi password para libre napud imong download2x. Lucky Day: Two Day Lucky Color: Color Blind Gemini (Your friend nga gamayg kalipay) Pagbantay-bantay sa imong kauban. Papel ug bolpen nasad nimo ang ilang tripingan pagabot sa midterm exam. Lucky Day: Last week Ogost 1, 1566 Lucky Color: Color sa imong ilok Leo (Loom bands King) Dili maayo ang pagsigeg suot og loom bands, samot nag dili mubagay sa imong appearance. Lucky Day: Tomorrow the other day Lucky Color: Bluembands Libra (Manok ni Angkol Bruno) Oi friend, ayaw sigeg Instagram. Mas maayo pa ang kilogram kay daghan mapilian. Lucky Day: Unya ka lang karon Lucky Color: Moron 5 Pisces (I’m falling to fishes) Ayaw kabalaka kung walay muhigugma nimo. Tuo sa Ginoo kay love ka niya og apil na ko adto rottzzz.. Lucky Day: Next week pa dodong/inday Lucky Color: Green Blackboard Taurus (Sus! Kabaw na ko ani) Ga-gym ka part? Ayaw palabi kay mura na kag building kadako. Basin mahimo nakag condo sa tigtumba og baka. Lucky day: All-sins Day Luck Color: Whiteney Houston Sagittarius (tikbalang sa paningin, sa gabi shoke) Likayi ang pag sigeg selfie kay ang mga viewers gisumhan na imu nawong na way kabag-ohan, nawong nimo mura nag advertisement sa sinehan. Lucky Day: Duemengeng Lucky Color: Dalandan Real na Real Scorpio (Ang ok-ok nga naay ikog) Magkita mo sa imong crush karon. Pero bad news, wala pa syay kaon. Likay nalang basin ikaw pay palibrehon, wala ra ba kay balon. Lucky Day: Next time nalang sa kay malas Lucky Color: Color2x Water Color Virgo (Dili na Virgin Cola) Kung ikaw nabalaka unsa imu iregalo sa imong jowa, hala regaluhig buslot nga pitaka para makarealize nang tawhana. Lucky Day: Throwfront Thorsday Lucky Color: Yellow Pad

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Vol. 41 No. 1 July 2014