TheCrusader September Tabloid by The Crusader Publication

the road now taken. Fr. Bobby takes the spotlight during the academic convocation of his investiture as 10th XU president.

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It’s official: Fr. Yap is 10th XU prexy By Glenn Paolo A. Goopio

r. Roberto “Bobby” C. Yap, SJ, was formally installed as the 10th president of Xavier University on the Feast of Our Lady’s Assumption, August 15, 2011. Fr. Yap was selected by the University Board of Trustees last year following then-University president Fr. Jose Ramon T. Villarin, SJ’s pending installation to the Ateneo de Manila University (AdMU) – likewise as university president. Enter the 10th Fr. Yap’s investiture commenced with a Eucharistic Celebration with presider Fr. Antonio J. Ledesma, SJ D.D, Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro, and homilist Fr. Jose C.J. Magadia, Provincial Superior of the Philippine Province of the Society of Jesus. It was followed by an academic convocation. Fr. Magadia assisted Fr. Yap’s 89-year-old mother, in her wheelchair, as she bestowed her son the Presidential Medallion, formally commissioning the new president to his ministry. Dr. Patricia B. Licuanan, Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education, handed the University Charter while Engr. Elpidio M. Paras,

Chairperson of the University Board of Trustees, passed on the University Mace, setting Fr. Yap’s presidency into office. The convocation was followed by salutations from Dr. Licuanan; Atty. Casimiro B. Juarez, Jr., president of Capitol University; and Fr. Antonio F. Moreno, SJ, president of Ateneo de Zamboanga University (AdZU) and Chairperson of the Jesuit Higher Education Commission. Fr. Yap proceeded with his inaugural address vowing to continue the three University Development Goals set by the previous administration (Stronger Formation, Greater Societal Engagement and Better Administration) while revealing plans of his own. The Investiture Ceremonies closed with remarks from Fr. Daniel P.L. Huang, General Counselor of the Society of Jesus and Regional Assistant for Jesuits in Asia-Pacific Region. Attending the celebration were a majority of XU’s staff and student leaders, members of the Society of Jesus and the provincial government, the private sector, and other distinguished guests. A dinner reception was provided at the Covered Courts later that night.

A BABY PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS. Fr. Yap delivers his inaugural speech during his investiture .

Bobby in the making Before his presidency Fr. Yap was teaching for the Department of Economics at AdMU – where he is currently on leave. As the Province Treasurer of the Jesuits – a position he still keeps today – he is often esteemed by colleagues for his expert management. The president graduated cum laude of BA Economics in AdMU; at which time he, along with

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close friend Fr. Villarin, were active student leaders. Fr. Yap entered the Society of Jesus two years after graduation, in 1982. As part of his formation, he took up a Master of Arts in Economics at the New School for Social Research in New York. He finished several other courses and degrees, namely: Bachelor in Sacred Theology from the Loyola School of Theology as summa cum laude; Master of Arts in Theology from AdMU; Master

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Magis Student Complex formally opens By Hannah Mae S. Salugsugan

he fourth part of the evolution of the Magis Student Complex (MSC) site was successfully carried on in a blessing ceremony and official opening held at the Xavier University (XU) main campus on August 15. Fr. Ramon “Jett” T. Villarin SJ, immediate past University President, administered the blessing ceremony, and headed the unveiling of the MSC dedication along with Fr. Roberto C. Yap, SJ at the Magis Atrium. Engr. Elpidio M. Paras, chair of the University Board of Trustees; Dr. Lina G. Kwong, Academic Vice President; Irene Grace A. Guitarte, Director of Student Affairs; deans from the different colleges; XU faculty and staff; and student leaders from various college councils and organizations also graced the unveiling which was followed by a short program at the university cafeteria. “This new Magis Student Complex marks another giant step forward in our commitment to carry out our responsibilities of being stewards of the goods of creation in our services as men

and women for others,” Fr. Villarin said during the opening rite of the blessing. Fr. Villarin, who is now Ateneo de Manila University president, along with other Jesuit priests, came to the city to witness the investiture of Fr. Yap which was held in the afternoon of the same day. Fr. Yap underlined in his opening remarks that he contended to schedule the blessing of the MSC on August 15 to make sure that Fr. Villarin gets to preside the blessing ceremony, citing that “the MSC is his [Fr. Villarin] building.” Even so, the new University president accepted the dispensation of the MSC from the past administration of Fr. Villarin. Meanwhile, the new bookstore housed in the said building was also officially opened to start servicing the XU community by exclusively selling books and Ateneo merchandise. During the short program, Guitarte presented a short introduction of the Php 41-million MSC. It was supplemented by a video presentation on the

magis begins here. Fr. Jett presides ribbon cutting to formally open Magis Complex.

four phases of the Magis Complex site evolution: groundbreaking, coin tossing, construction and blessing. Fr. Villarin said in his closing message: “I’ll tell you a secret but I think you know this already. You [students] are the inspiration of the faculty and staff.”

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The three-storey structure, designed by XU High School alumnus Arch. Lawrence Jeffrey Maceren, had its soft opening last July 14, following a series of discussions during the first semester of last year. Construction started on October after the approval of the blueprint on August.C

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holds first XU concludes Buwan ng Wika 2011 KKP session of ACLD

By Arsenio F. Meneses III and Ruth Anne B. Suson

teneans flocked to SM City on August 31, 2011 to witness the culmination of Wika, Arte at Kultura II with the theme: “Wikang Pambansa, Wikang Panlahat: Ilaw at Lakas tungo sa Tuwid na Landas”. The crowning of Lakan and Binibining Paraluman, and Boses ng Bituin were the highlights of the activity. Krisa Neri nabbed the top spot in Boses ng Bituin, while Chino Bacsarpa and Alyssa Gale Neri were crowned as Lakan and Binibining Paraluman of the year, respectively. The Voter’s Choice Award was awarded to Kevin Sam Dingding, a 1st year International Studies student, and Feristy Acbal, also an AB IS freshman. Bacsarpa, a 3rd year BS Marine Biology student, garnered all the minor awards: Best in Dance Production, Best in Ethnic Costume, Best in Barong, and Mr. Photogenic. On the ladies’ side, Geraldine Mancia, a 3rd year Marine Biology student, and Alyssa Neri, a 3rd year AB IS student, each garnered two awards: with Mancia winning Best in Dance Production and Ethnic Costume; and

By Saharah Iman M. Alonto

PARALUMAN. Contestants of Lakan and Binibining Paraluman dance to ethnic tunes for their opening number.

Neri receiving Best in Filipiniana and Ms. Photogenic. A sudden shift from ramps to rhythms took place as contestants of the Boses ng Bituin showed their vocal prowess through singing a rendition of “Kay Ganda ng Ating Musika”, as well as their individual pieces.

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Sponsored by the Filipino Department and the Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts, Wika, Arte at Kultura II is a month-long celebration in commemoration of Buwan ng Wika. Other activities include Talentadong Atenista, Dulaan sa Tanghalan and Laro ng Lahi among others.C

Five XU Students among Int’l SLP Delegates By Saharah Iman M. Alonto

avier University sent five of its students as representatives in the Service Learning Program (SLP) last August 7 to August 28 at Ateneo de Davao. SLP is a project wherein delegates from all Jesuit universities of East Asia and Oceania assemble to rediscover their Jesuit identity. There are ten participating Jesuit universities in SLP: two from Japan; one each from Korea, Taiwan, Indonesia; and the rest are from the five Ateneo universities in the Philippines. From the participating schools,

there are twenty-seven participants in total. Three of the five XU delegates are volunteers from the Ateneo School of Upcoming Leaders (ASUL): Francis Borja, Roxette Joan Flores, and Blesilda Angela Nanaman. The other two are volunteers from the Kristohanong Katilingban sa Pagpakabana - Social Involvement Office (KKP-SIO): Dan Angelo Israel Custodio and Craig Marie Padla. They are accompanied by two faculty members, Mr. Arniel P. Daluz and Mr. Wilson Homoguera. This year, the theme of SLP is Environmental Stewardship. Some of their

activities include: visits to an indigenous community and to a Hedcor, Inc. hydropower plant; an immersion in a Gawad Kalinga village; a talk on the disadvantages of mining; and a forum discussion on the Philippine Eagle. On the other hand, the experience of SLP is not limited to its delegates for in Xavier University. It is integrated as a curriculum based program of KKP wherein students are sent outside school to be socially involved in their own community through the application of their particular fields.C

Tero marks 100th day with report

By Ressan Nash N. Alonto

Tano also introduced the Blue Financial Consultants, a team of student consultants tasked to bring about financial accountability to the various departments, committees, and projects of the CSG.

n August 13, Central Student Government President Mario Tero II discussed the achievements of the CSG in a report to mark the first 100 days of the current administration at the Loyola Conference Room. Before the report proper, Tero presented results of a survey regarding academics in XU, the visibility of the CSG, student services, interests of the students, and student engagement such as the campus elections. He also brought up the appointment of the first associate executive secretary, in the person of Princess Kimberly Ubay-ubay, who will assist Executive Secretary Nathaniel Cruz in his various tasks. On accountability Jeanifer Tano, Secretary of Budget and Finance, presented the cash flow of the CSG up to August 13. She also revealed the budget allocation for each office and department, with the biggest allocation going to the Department of Extra-curricular Affairs and Networking (DEAN), holding 33% of the budget.

From the Directorate Dean Cris Acabo, vice-president, later explained the connection of the first two enactments of the CSG—the first being the creation of the Computer Studies Student Council (CSSC), and the second being the creation of the Director of Information and Promotion post in the Directorate. “So kung wala gi-enact ang [Enactment] 002, the seat of Dobie [Donna Belle Borja, the CSSC president] would not have a specialized area to ponder or to counteract that problem, so that’s why the Directorship of Information and Promotion is created,” Acabo said. As of press time, the enactment has yet to be signed by the Supreme Court to institutionalize the said directorship. Setbacks Tero admitted that there were setbacks in planning events and in the reorganizing of accounts. One of those was during the OrgTrip “Rain or Shine” activity, when it was raining hard on the soccer field. The event had had to be moved to the Covered Courts due to the collapse of the tents. However, Tero also claimed that the CSG was able to conduct it successfully. “…even if it rained so hard, many students

came gihapon to support their own councils, their own representatives.”

On student participation “So far, so good,” Tero explained on the participation of the students, including the university-wide general assembly, which was attended by an estimate of 3,000 students. In his speech, Tero highlighted the Leadership Engagement and Archive Development (L.E.A.D.) program, led by Mark Amon, Secretary of Administrative Affairs, to address the issue of the decline of student participation in the CSG through different initiatives. Tero also commended the Amplify program of the Office of Communications for successfully promoting student activities through various means. Addressing the issue of the emerging vandalism by students on university property, Tero explained, “As [of] right now, we are passing a [consolidated] recommendation to the admin, together with the Atenista Ako Movement na what if there are stronger na mga punishments.” *** At the end of the report, Tero quoted from last year’s president Ernesto Neri: “From a mentality that centers on shortterm and event-based successes, we are slowly changing in to a government that governs, that focuses on issues and policy engagements, student services, programs, and formation.”C

teneo Campus Leadership Discovery (ACLD), a collaborative activity between the Freshman Formation Program (FFP) and Kristohanong Katilingban sa Pagpakabana - Social Involvement Office (KKP-SIO), initiated the first of its three Sunday sessions on August 21, 2011 at the fourth floor of the Agriculture building. Eighty-four participants, most of them being leaders of the different Focus Groups from the FFP classes this semester, participated in the session. About twenty to twenty-five of these participants were grouped into one classroom with their facilitator, assistant facilitator, documenter and speaker who are all volunteers from KKP. The activities of this morning session such as the consciousness examen, mandala art and group sharing were centered on the theme of heroic leadership. Aside from these reflective exercises, the session was livened up by the ice breakers contributed by both the volunteers and participants. At the end of the session, the processing was handled by the KKP volunteers who also spoke about the heroism of Ninoy Aquino, St. Francis Xavier, and St. Ignatius of Loyola. ACLD is a program to facilitate the discovery and development of leadership potential among Xavier University students. It is also driven to channel the experience of the participants as a concrete foundation for their path as effective leaders of today. Jean Marie Ann I. Bangcore, ACLD point person, shares the aim of ACLD in developing the participants, “Gipagawas namo sa ilang self unsa ilang secret as a leader… gipaexpose sa ilaha…kung unsa sila na leader.” There are still two more ACLD sessions for the months of September and October.C

New Filipino orthography discussed in XU By Leasusana C. Ty

seminar on the new orthography of the Filipino language was held on August 20, 2011 at the Little Theatre as part of the celebration of Buwan ng Wika. The speaker, Dr. Marie Joy DigamonBanawa, stressed that Tagalog is not the national language. It is Filipino. Yet, she admitted that Tagalog was indeed declared as the basis for Filipino by former president Manuel L. Quezon. She discussed the contents of the book, Ang Gabay sa Ortograpiya ng Wikang Filipino (2009) ng Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino which contains the new orthography - a standard way of writing the Filipino language. The new orthography revealed many changes in the Filipino language. Recognizing this, Dr. Banawa explained, “Hayaan na natin na ang panahon na mismo ang humusga.” Dr. Banawa pointed out that “borrowing” words from other languages is common, saying that, “Walang wika na di naghihiram.” She stressed that other languages, including American English, also had to borrow words from other languages to help create the language into its present form. According to Dr. Banawa, many Filipino teachers are unaware of such changes in the Filipino system of writing.

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CdeO choirs show vocal prowess at festival By Dharyl Jean A. Indino

Crusader | NEWS

ugust 20, 2011—Thunderous applause rang throughout the Immaculate Conception Chapel as seven of the most prominent choral groups in Cagayan de Oro City performed song after song in Iisang Bangka: A Choral Festival. Organized by the Xavier University Glee Club (XUGC), the fest also included Liceo de Cagayan University G-Clef Musicale Society, Mindanao University of Science and Technology Sanghimig Chorale, Capitol University (CU) Glee Club, Misamis Oriental Chorale, and Friends and Music. XUGC first showcased “O Nata Lux”, led by the club’s assistant conductor Mr. Vic Angelo Atdao. They afterwards sung “Agongan Mindanao” accompanied by a bongo, followed by a lively rendition of “Let It Be”. Sanghimig Chorale surprised the crowd with their abrupt singing with animal sounds, and CU Glee Club broke the continuous singing of the classic genre as they presented FIFA 2010’s famous anthem “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” complete with choreography. According to Mr. Hobart P. Savior, Director of Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts, the event was organized to foster peace, unity and harmony among the different choral groups in the city. “Rather than sailing on different boats towards different directions, it is better to sail on one boat to one direction,” Savior said, expounding on the event’s name. Moreover, Savior said that the concert might encourage the creation of a choral organization in the city and establish a vocal industry that would help the underprivileged people in the society. “Music is such a therapeutic type of art,” he explained. XUGC president Rae Anne Saltiga expressed surprise at the crowd turnout. The Chapel was filled to the last pews. “I didn’t expect to see [this number]. I never thought many [will be interested] in choral presentations.” The organizers hope to build on the success of the event. “We plan on making it annual but with [already different] host, and we might also welcome other groups to participate.”C

LAF kicks off, exhibits XU artworks By Ma. Rosetti G. Villamor

geless: A Literary and Arts Festival was launched on August 18 at the Magis Student Complex (MSC). It showcased art and literary pieces from various XU organizations, namely TheCrusader Publication, Ateneo Camera Club, Circulo de Arte, and the Xavier English Language and Literature Organization. The pieces were displayed on the staircase leading from the MSC 2nd floor up to the roof deck where students also participated in activities like Chalk Art and the “Isumbong Mo Kay Cora” freedom wall. A reading area with collections of books ranging from digital art to humor was also open to readers at the second floor. The Crusader Publication also launched several events throughout the festival, among them the release of the Veritas: Literary and Arts Folio 2011 at the Ageless opening.

The closing program also introduced the CruTV, a series of documentaries on issues concerning the XU community. The pilot episode, which lasted for eight minutes, featured a glimpse into the personal life of University President Fr. Roberto “Bobby” Yap, SJ. Popcorn Nights was also launched during the program. This monthly event intends to show films with issues that cater to the student body—with free popcorn. Popcorn Nights opened with “Imelda”, a documentary on Imelda Marcos, the controversial wife of the late Pres. Ferdinand Marcos. Other notable presentations include a magic show by Reuben Lardizabal of the Inner Society of Magic, and a flute-and-violin recital by select Xavier Center for Cultutre and the Arts (XCCA) performers. The Ageless closing ceremony on August 25 at the Little Theater awarded the winners

of Veritas 2011 Editor’s Choice: Samantha Opeña for Essay (“Nostalgia”); Marie Gil Migullas for Traditional Art (“Off the Wall”); Martina Aurea Jugador for Short Story (“The Wait”); and Tyron Keith Maru Sabal for Poem (“The Old Man and His Chicharon”). Ageless was organized by the abovementioned organizations, as well as the XCCA and the Atenista Ako Movement. The festival is intended to be an annual event to endorse literary and art pieces created by XU students, faculty and alumni. “To express [is] to be ageless,” says Lyle Justin Egay, project head of Ageless. “And our efforts [to promote art] don’t stop here. That’s why we invite XU to come express yourselves as we open the mural called Ageless and a freedom wall, where you can speak your minds freely.” Both activities are anticipated to launch before the end of the semester.C

XU hosts 7th COSAA

By Robert A. Villaluz Jr.

ugust 14, 2011 – Twelve different schools from all around the city gathered together for the opening of the annual Cagayan de Oro Schools Athletic Association (COSAA) which took place at the Xavier University Gymnasium at around 7:00 am. The program, organized by the Atenista Ako Movement (AAM), started with the entrance of schools and of colors led by the XU Band and XU Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, as each of the contingents entered the gym with their teams’ respective monikers. It was then followed by the invocation and the singing of the National Anthem by the XU Glee Club and the XU Band. Representing newly-elected COSAA president and University President Fr. Roberto Yap, SJ was Fr. George Esguerra, who shared his message to the athletes. Stressing that victory is not the main goal of the competition, Fr. Esguerra encouraged the players to be responsible enough to accept winning or losing. After that he officially declared the 7th COSAA games open. Ephraim Dahilan, XU basketball team captain, led the oath taking of sportsmanship for the athletes. Adrian Villaroya of the AAM entertained the crowd with Miley Cyrus’ “The Climb”. Introduction of the different schools taking part in the tournaments followed.

TIP OFF. Grade school teams from Xavier University and Merry Child School battle for first possession in newest COSAA season.

The participating schools for both the elementary and secondary levels are Abba’s Orchard School, Don Mariano Canoy College, Merry Child School, Rosevale School, and St. Mary’s School. St. Mary’s Academy of Carmen competed for the high school division only, while the Southern Philippines College joined only the high school and college divisions. STI College was present for the tertiary level alone. Participating in all levels are Capitol University, Cagayan de Oro College, Lourdes College, and XU.

Azkals play on XU grounds P

IN THE PRESENCE OF SOCCER CELEBS . Smart San Beda FC players practice in the soccer field in front of an adoring XU crowd.

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hilip “Phil” and James Younghusband, possibly two of the most fancied players of the Philippine national football team, satiated the crowd’s thirst for football action as they suited up for practice at the Xavier University soccer field last August 10 at around 3:00 pm. The practice was for their team’s upcoming games in the Philippine Football Federation (PFF) – SMART Club Championships which kicked off the day before at the city’s Gregorio Pelaez Memorial Stadium. The Younghusband brothers banner Smart San Beda FC, representing Rizal Province. They were up against Azkals teammates Emilio “Chieffy” Caligdong, Ian Araneta and Misagh Bahadoran who play for Teknika, a team from National Capital Region.

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These schools will compete in 13 sports, namely: arnis, athletics, badminton, baseball, basketball, chess, football, lawn tennis, sepak takraw, swimming, table tennis, taekwondo and volleyball. Right after the opening ceremony, defending overall champion XU won a string of basketball games against Merry Child School in Grade School and Junior High School, Lourdes College’s High School team and COC-PHINMA in the tertiary level. The COSAA will end with the championship games on September 25.C

By Robert A. Villaluz Jr. Teknika, sans Caligdong and Araneta, were also spotted practicing on XU field last August 12. Rizal-Smart San Beda FC revisited the school for another session of practice on the same day but didn’t stay for long. The University had a relatively higher Wednesday population, with the students and faculty anticipating the presence of their football heroes. Phil, the national team’s lead striker, unleashed his lethal kicks which gathered screams from the jampacked crowd. On August 22, Teknika clinched the PFFSMART Club Championships trophy after besting Rizal-San Beda, 3-2 on aggregate.C

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EDITORIAL

The

Crusader

Publishers Subscribing students of Xavier University Editors Ryan Louie G. Madrid Editor-in-Chief Bianca Nathalie Y. Llamis Associate Editor Jose Alfonso P. Sendaydiego Design and Video Editor Glenn Paolo A. Goopio Managing Editor John Kenneth E. Ching News Editor Ma. Therese D. Agcopra Campus Features Editor Hannah Mae S. Salugsugan Local Features Editor Ma. Rosetti G. Villamor National Features Editor Nadine Hendrikka E. Legaspi Global Features Editor Lyle Justin A. Egay Sports Editor Kristoffer James L. Nambatac Layout Editor Haiko B. Magtrayo Photography Editor Alexes June E. Baslot Freehand Editor Finance Officers Shola Mae Rose G. Zamayla Senior Finance Officer Frances Joy G. Tan Junior Finance Officer (Trainee) Managers Caroline Joy R. Go Human Resource Manager Ruth Anne B. Suson Office Manager Kristoffer James L. Nambatac Sr. Computer Systems Manager Janrick Romales Jr. Computer Systems Manager (Trainee) Jenamae Espineli

Festive floods

een to any rainy parties lately? Recently, Cagayan de Oro city flaunted a festive spectacle of parades, shows, and competitions to commemorate the feast of St. Augustine. But that’s not the only thing that gave Kagay-anons—and even tourists—a cause for celebration. Aside from the city’s booming business investments and current road constructions (such as the Ayala Centrio) there’s also the city’s current fascination—the multimillion-peso flyover projects in Macanhan, Puerto and Licuan—to look forward to. Zooming in on Xavier University, we had our own share of festivity when the Magis Student Complex formally opened and Fr. Roberto C. Yap, SJ’s had his investiture. Along these are other improvements around campus which are looking good; the site where the Peace Park used to be is getting a major facelift of its own and seems to be nearing completion. But bigger than these merrymakings is the actual reason behind it all, which is the city’s and the university’s growth spurt. To say that we have much to celebrate is an understatement. After all the hard work, the

Kagay-anons and Ateneans do deserve a nice pat on the back. However, after all the food is consumed, all the cameras have run out of batteries, and all the visitors have gone home to rest, we begin to realize that not much has really changed, and that we are still faced with the same problems we have yet to solve. For one thing, heavy downpours decided to join in on the festivities, resulting in murky floods in and out of the campus. The perpetual rainfalls have caused flooding along Kauswagan Highway, Cugman and Lapasan and many other low lying areas. In XU, whenever the weather casts gray skies and starts raining, students have to carefully navigate through slippery wet floors and skip tiny pools of water in the hallways and bridges of the Student Center and Aggies buildings. Even the bricked pathway between these buildings is flooded, making it unpassable and ultimately defeating its purpose on rainy days. Flooding has been a primordial problem for as long as we can remember, and our worst reminder is the catastrophe last January 2009, when ankle-level floods in the city rose to waist level and caused thousands of damages.

It’s been two years since it happened, and it’s a godsend that we haven’t been hit by another disaster of the same magnitude; but what have we done so far to remedy a faulty system? More importantly, what can we do to prepare ourselves when it strikes again? It might not seem like a particularly pressing concern. The city is doing economically well and XU appears to be moving forward. But come to think of it, our most basic problem with drainage systems might cause a setback for present and future developments. We don’t like to hear it, but sometimes we can be like little children—when presented with something shiny and new, we tend to overlook our previous possessions’ dire need for repair. We become so easily attached to the spanking new material that we ignore our old things, and if not, abandon them completely. Is there more reason to celebrate or is there more to worry about? Should we sing in the rain or do we duck for cover? Well, we all know that a party hat is not enough shelter from an unexpected downpour. If you don’t want anything to rain on your parade, don’t forget to bring an umbrella.C

Staff Writers Ressan Nash N. Alonto (Trainee) Saharah Iman M. Alonto Sam D. Garcia (On-leave) Caroline Joy R. Go Dharyl Jean A. Indino (Trainee) Marc Stephen S. Manuel (Trainee) Kamya G. Mordeno Ruth Anne B. Suson Princess E. Tolentino (Trainee) Leasusana C. Ty (Trainee) Jacqueline P. Uy Anna Althea W. Vergara (Trainee) Robert A. Villaluz Jr. (Trainee) Joule Artemson D. Visabella Staff Artists Francis Ryan O. Avellana (Trainee) Rochelle D. Barros (Trainee) Richard Mars Caberte Jenamae G. Espineli (Trainee) Christian Loui S. Gamolo (Trainee) Feliciano T. Legara IV (Trainee) Rico M. Magallona (Trainee) Arsenio F. Meneses III (Trainee) Breisa V. Moralde Carmi Yvette C. Salcedo Venice Marie P. Villo (Trainee) Moderator Ann Catherine Ticao-Acenas For contributions, please address your articles and/or comments to TheCrusader Publication office, StC 302 Xavier University Cagayan de Oro City 9000 Circulation: 2, 000 copies

Vol. 38 No. 5 Sep 2011 | Layout by Arsenio F. Meneses III, Jose Alfonso P. Sendaydeigo and Kristoffer James L. Nambatac

Aggies grow trees to back Fr. Yap’s green campus goal By Hannah Mae S. Salugsugan

tree-growing activity was carried out at the Manresa Agri-Eco Zone (Manraezone) on the morning of August 20, as part of the Manresa Days 2011 celebration. Spearheaded by the Agriculture Student Council (ASC), the event was attended by about 100 participants composed of Aggie students and faculty. This activity was an extension of the Adopt A Tree program under Dr. Anselmo B. Mercado, former director and dean of the College of Agriculture (COA), wherein interested parties would plant a tree and then pay for the maintenance and growth of the tree. “Father [Roberto] Yap declared that he wants XU to be a green campus. Here in the

College of Agriculture, this tree-growing activity will be our contribution to that goal; while at the same time, promoting the agriforestry and biodiversity zone in Manresa,” Mr. Floro V. Dalapag, COA faculty member, said. He also cited that Manresa is the only green patch in the uptown area since most are intended for housing. The activity was initiated by students and was given a new twist. Project-in-charge Aidel Melissa M. Bajao said the activity is different from tree planting initiatives done by other organizations. With the tree growing activity in Manraezone, the participants not only planted the trees but will also have to maintain its growth. To fire up the commitment and

to inspire a sense of ownership, the trees were named after the growers. “We need to identify ourselves as stewards of Mother Earth. If you own something, definitely you will take care of it,” Dalapag said. Agriculture students and faculty members planted hardwood - particularly mahogany - in the Manraezone, where plant holes were prepared beforehand. “We only prepared 50 holes, but more or less a hundred participants came and so we had to add more holes,” Bajao proudly said. Meanwhile, Dalapag said that they are planning to launch a contest among the student organizations in the COA to spur the maintenance of the trees. They are also planning to make a concrete proposal in the

succeeding weeks to invite the larger XU community to also plant their own trees. This is in line with the plan of making another trail in the forest area in Manresa Farm. “This [planting] is just the beginning. The real challenge is to grow the tree. And hopefully, we can invite more people to join us in this initiative… perhaps Father Yap,” Bajao said. The participants were energetic during and after the activity. “Naming the tree after me gave me a different kind of satisfaction. I felt responsible and committed,” Rowell P. Cortes, ASC Prime Minister proudly said. C

The

Je ne sais quoi Nadine Hendrikka E. Legaspi

Errata Crusader has regretfully made the following errors in its past issues: The

In the article “XCCA: Culture is the Way” of the August Tabloid issue of TheCrusader (Vol. 38, No.3), the editor erred in attributing one of the program’s hosts. The female host should be Maria Hearty Vera Barte, rather than Hearty Hyacinth Barlisan. Crusader Publication published an incomplete short story entitled “The Houses That Babies Built” by Frances Borja in Veritas Literary and Art Folio 2011. The complete version of the literary piece will be made available in TheCrusader website, www.thecrusaderpublication.com. The

Crusader apologizes to the aforementioned individuals for these inaccuracies and hopes that these errata will rectify our errors.C The

Crusader | OPINION

The Right to Riot

t began with murder. On August 4th this year at Tottenham, North London, Mark Duggan was shot on the chest by a policeman in an attempt to arrest him. Duggan, 29, was an alleged drug dealer. On August 6th, Duggan’s relatives and some local residents marched to the Tottenham Police Station and demanded for answers about his death. Passersby and other spectators soon began joining the crowd flocked in front of the police station. Three hours later, some members of the crowd— people completely uninvolved with the situation— set two parked police cars on fire. It was Pandora’s Box getting pried open all over again. Youths started smashing shop windows, doors and storefronts open; looting mostly electronics stores, and wrecking everything in sight. The next day fires broke out in various areas of London as rioters ran around torching shops and houses, and people from Liverpool, Hackney, Croydon, Manchester and Birmingham were mimicking the riots and started running amok, doing the same things people were doing in Tottenham. What was once a little peaceful protest for answers to a justifiable death became fullscale chaos. All these unsatisfied and bitter individuals needed was a go-signal to lash out in what they thought would be a way to battle the system, and this was it. One only has to watch interviews made by media on the participants of the riots on places other than Tottenham to see that none of them could state a concrete reason why or how all of it broke out, other than a black man getting shot for no reason— which isn’t exactly the best explanation for it all. Media sources state that what triggered the riots is most probably the death of Duggan, but it was not that his relatives and friends all cried out for justice like mad apes and started hitting the first policeman within eyesight; they themselves were opposed to the sudden outbreaks and did not ask for such actions. It was mob mentality at its finest. Sabay sa uso, terms closer to home. It was no longer the death of a black man that was the issue— it was everyone’s personal bitterness with their own situations that led to devastation of England’s streets. Tottenham is a relatively poor area in London, and the cost of damages that have been caused by reckless individuals are well beyond their capacity to replenish. On August 10th, the riots ended with over £100M to pay for damages, wreckage everywhere, five deaths and so much hatred still simmering about.

New Filipino orthography... (from page 2)

In encouragement, Dr. Banawa added that Filipino teachers should not be insecure as they teach Filipinos because they are the pioneers of the Filipino language and the guide to better nationalism. “Walang supiryor at inferiyor na wika,” she reminded them. Dr. Banawa graduated as Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, major in Filipino from Mindanao State University – Marawi, She took up Master of Arts in Education, major in the Art of Filipino Communication in Xavier University. She holds a doctorate degree of Philosophy in Filipino from University of the Philippines – Diliman. Dr. Banawa is an author of several Filipino textbooks for the AB Filipino program of Mindanao State University – Iligan Insitute of Technology.C

More than a thousand miles below Europe in the continent of Africa, Muammar Gadhafi, the de facto ruler of Libya after seizing power from their former ruler in a military coup, has been tyrannically ruling the country for 42 years. He abolished the Libyan constitution and started making laws his way. He started several wars, took part in a number of them, and encouraged the use of nuclear weapons. He sponsored many acts of terror around the world and within his country. Inspired by the successful uprisings of their neighbors Egypt and Tunisia, the National Transitional Council of Libya spearheaded the rebellion, with thousands of people supporting them, and Gadhafi’s men themselves switching sides. It was on February this year when the people decided to fight back, and take his power away from him for good. Gadhafi responded with ordering his supporters to come out and attack the demonstrators, accusing the rebels of taking in hallucinogenic and alcoholic substances, and being a “disgrace” to the nation. Gadhafi’s militia have tortured and killed many rebels under his orders. He referred to them as cockroaches and rats, and implored his supporters to “purify” Tripoli of the rebels that he thinks are vermin, at one point asking women and children to fight for him. He vowed to stand his ground and not leave Libya, saying from an unknown location, “Let there be a long fight. We will not give up. We are not women.” and “If Libya goes up in flames, who will be able to govern it? Let it burn. They don’t want to rule Libya. They cannot rule it as long as we are armed. We are still armed. We will fight in every valley, in every street, in every oasis and every town.” He has lost control of Tripoli, the Libyan capital, and rebels have infiltrated his home and properties, but he remains vigilant, depending on his armed supporters to continue fighting for him. Muammar Gadhafi is facing an arrest warrant by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity, as are many of his main men. His family members have fled to Algeria, a sign of surrender; but Muammar himself has yet to be found. Fifty thousand people have been killed over the past six months of the uprising. Members of the opposition say it’s only a matter of time, possibly a week, until Gadhafi will finally step down. Opposition Finance Minister Ali Tarhouni said “I really have no problem waiting for another week; I’ve waited 42 years.” But recent developments have proved that it might take more than that-- it could take weeks, months, and even-- heaven forbid—years. And the world will wait with them.

*** Two different uprisings: one initially wanted answers to the shooting of a drug dealer, while the other was to overthrow a dictator. One must recuperate from material cost, while the other is permanently scarred with the cost of human lives. Although peaceful means are always an option, they oftentimes do not suffice. The riots in London and the reasons that kept it going are minute compared to the circumstances that led to the uprising against Gadhafi in Libya. It could have been settled peacefully. England is one of the richest nations in the world, and London is one of the most beautiful cities on Earth. Libya is in Africa, where people hardly get enough to eat in one day, where violence is the norm and women don’t get the respect they deserve; yet the people chose to act after they’d had enough of 42 years of tyranny. You do not tear down shop windows and steal LCD TV’s to let the government know you are unsatisfied with the system or your lack of an occupation. You speak up; you do not lash out aimlessly. The rebellion in Libya will go down in history books as an act of bravery against forces that used to be imperturbable until a group of people decided enough was enough. The riots in England will ever be criticized for how trivially unfounded it was and how expensive it was for Tottenham and other areas to get back on their feet. First World or Third World, people will be discontent, and people will try to have their way. It is human nature to want things, but this desire is immensely relative. Man has unlimited wants, and these wants are usually only for themselves. But once in a blue moon-- or in 42 years-- independence is a mutual want-- a need, even. Not everyone has the right to riot, but everyone has the right to be angry. Discontented over a matter that can clearly be resolved with dialogue? Put away your torches and axes. Try to get someone to hear you out. Everyone has the right to be angry, but it’s only a matter of having the foresight to know what all this rage, all this blind conviction, is going to lead to-- and whose lives it is going to affect.C For comments, suggestions and/or reactions, please send an e-mail to the columnist at nadinelegaspi@ thecrusaderpublication.com

Xavier Stage to present “Barracks” By Lyle Justin A. Egay With their third major production this year, the Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts and the Xavier stage will show Edward Perez’s “Barracks ni Tenyente Fuego” this Sept. 21-27 at the Little Theater. This stage play, dwelling mainly on the experience of seven gay brothers while with their homophobic father, will be directed by Hobart Savior and starred by Giovanni Tampus. “Barracks” is the Xavier Stage’s third play to be shown this year, after Wilfrido Ma. Guerrero’s “Ulilang Tahanan” and “Dalawang Komedya”.C

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Manresa hosts meat and livestock show By Joule Artemson D. Visabella The 5th Southern Philippines Meat and Livestock Show (SPMLS) was held at the Manresa Farm, Upper Carmen running from the 22nd to the 26th of August headed by Misamis Oriental Governor Oscar S. Moreno and veterinarian Dr. Alfonso Ramosa. With the theme “Promoting Homegrown Food”, SPMLS hosted programs such as: the live animal/genetics show; meat/food processing; agri-science awards, quiz and fair; and technology seminars and conventions. The show – sponsored by B-Meg, Pigrolac, Thunderbird, Señor Pedro and DENR – also held special events in the duration of the show. These special events were Beat this SPMLS Logo Contest, Thunderbird Poster Making Contest, egg catching, sponsor’s hour, raffle draw, Veterenarians fellowship & night, SPMLS barn dance, and grand raffle. Prelude to SPMLS, students from the College of Agriculture hosted a rodeo. This marked the first Southern Philippines Meat and Livestock show in Manresa, as it was held at the Capitol Grounds for the four previous years. “This event is an opportunity for farmers to educate and teach fellow farmers of their methods,” says veterinarian Dr. Antonio Turagao, “and enjoy together the wonders of an underappreciated profession.”C

KRUMP IT UP . A dance crew heats up the roof with their dynamic moves in the hip hop competition.

Party on the Roof garners mixed reactions By Princess E. Tolentino A crowd of pink, silver and black filled the Magis Student Complex (MSC) roof deck last August 13, 2011 for Party on the Roof. The program aimed to hype up the investiture of Fr. Roberto Yap, SJ and the official opening of the MSC. The highlight of the night was the hip hop dance contest which the dance group PNG Mix had won first place, Make Sense second and Frolic Fusion third. “We expected the students to really attend, to really enjoy the program. Although we prepared a program, we wanted it to appear spontaneous. Parang ano lang, come what may,” says Ivanell Subrabas, head of Student Activities and Leadership Development (SACDEV).

On student collaboration The event was organized by SACDEV under the Office of Student Affairs, together with the Central Student Government, the various councils, the Assembly of Extra-Curricular Organizations and the Atenista Ako Movement. Each had a distinct responsibility in the event. Mr. Subrabas expects to see increased and improved collaboration among student organizations given the installation of new facilities. “The University invested so much for this structure; I think it will send a message to students of how the University values the importance of student involvement, the contribution of student leaders,” says Subrabas.

JPIChe wins Eng’g KAHIBALO quiz bee By Leasusana C. Ty The Junior Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers (JPIChe) showcased their mental brilliance as they grabbed the title in KAHIBALO Quiz Bee, which was held in AVR 5. JPIChe won 1st place with a total of 86 points, barely making it past runnerup Junior Institute of Electronics and Communications Engineers of the Philippines (JIECEP) with 85 points. Third place went to the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE), garnering 75 points. KAHIBALO Quiz Bee is an intra-college event held annually and is administered by the Association of College of Engineering

(R. AVELLANA)

Students. It aims to promote academic excellence and camaraderie within the college. Five participants were selected from each course in the College of Engineering, one from each year level. The questions were based from all Mathematics and Science subjects found in the Engineering curriculum and were divided into three categories: easy, average, and difficult. The easy round featured both freshmen and sophomores. JIECEP led with a perfect score of 20 points, followed by PICE scoring 16 points, JPIChe and the Philippine Institute of Industrial Engineers (PIIE) tied at 14 points, the Junior

Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers (JPSME) with 12 points and Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers (IIEE) with 8 points. The average round was fought by the 3rd and 4th year students. JIECEP maintained their perfect start with another perfect score of 30 points, JPIChE and JPSME tied with 27 points, PICE and IIEE tied with 24 points and PIIE with 15 points. The difficult round lived up to its name. Fifth year students (or for some of the groups, 3rd and 4thyear) battled it out, with each question worth 5 points. This time, JPIChe upended the JIECEP dominance by top-scoring the round with 45 points.C

Artscies GA goes green By Ruth Anne B. Suson and Ma. Therese D. Agcopra School of Arts and Sciences (SAS) students roared loud and proud during the ArtScies’ Jungle Wild Fever General Assembly which took place on August 17, 2011 at the Covered Courts. The theme is in line with United Arts and Sciences Student Council’s environmental advocacy to which Council President Sean Jared Lastimoso stressed the point of awareness, especially on issues such as global warming. According to Lastimoso, “Along with the Central Student Government and the other Ateneos, we want to emphasize how crucial our roles as Ateneans [are] regarding this issue.”

Through the general assembly, he hopes to spread this advocacy to the SAS community. “The UNITASS admin is trying to rekindle the engagement of the students... [and] ask what can they do for the environment.” The highlight of the event was the Search for Mr. Artscies. John Michael Magallanes of International Studies was crowned this year’s Mr. Artscies, and was also hailed Mr. Photogenic and Voter’s Choice. First runnerup Paul Hipona, representative of Biology and Marine Biology, won the contest for Best 3D Animal.C

On the ground level Many of the attendees understood the purpose of the event. “It was for Fr. Bobby,” says a Business Administration senior. “I liked how they [organizers] really went out of their way to welcome him,” she adds with a smile. But others, while aware of the message, were confused. “It was for Fr. Bobby and it was like a welcoming party for him but... where was Fr. Bobby during that time? I was looking for him,” says another party goer. Some, however, were there for the party alone. “Honestly, [the purpose of the event] wasn’t clear. My friend just told me there’s this party, and we have to wear pink and black,” says one student.C

CCS celebrates first GA By Anna Althea W. Vergara The first ever General Assembly (GA) of the newly-instituted College of Computer Studies was held at the Covered Courts on August 24. Hosts Joie Ann Maghanoy, Michael Dave Tan, Czar Henry Chaves and Helen Grace Esin gave their full spirit in welcoming all the students to the year starter program of the newly established college. Among the highlights of the programme were the introduction to the Computer Studies Student Council (CSSC) officers and the Xavier Computer Enthusiasts’ League; the song number performed by the faculty members, much to the delight of the audience; and the two competitions involving the various year levels of both the Computer Science (CS) and Information Systems (IS) courses. Showcasing the talent of the ‘geeks’, bands took turns in serenading the crowd. Not long after, the dance crews heated up the floor, with ‘XP 7’, a group of CS seniors, emerging as winner. Mr. and Ms. Fashionista Geek, the longawaited fashion show that trended for weeks in the Facebook community, came to its peak. Candidates competed for the most number of ‘likes’ on Facebook weeks prior to the assembly. Voting ended with CS seniors Rey Dabatian and Chyll Gabarang being crowned Mr. and Ms. Fashionista Geek, respectively.C

The

Crusader | NEWS

The student factor... (from page 10) If you are a teacher and you are reading this, or even if you are a student but you are also reading this just for the heck of it, here are the descriptions of six students who you would not want to meet in campus or anywhere else for that matter. The MPA If you think that MPA is somewhat similar to MBA, think again. Unfortunately, it does not stand for Master of Public Administration. Rather it is a euphemism for the Manicure, Pedicure and Alot. This is the student who brings her kikay kit a.k.a. miniature beauty salon to class. While waiting for you to start the day’s lesson, she takes out the best feature of her mini parlor: the ever essential hair straitening iron so that she could fix her locks of her friend’s. During class, she surreptitiously glances at her reflection in her pocket mirror and does this more than once – perhaps thinking that she isn’t causing a distraction. Minutes before the bell rings for dismissal, she takes out her face powder or make up for a retouch and blantantly does this in front of you. If you call her attention, she innocently says, “Aw wala man ko’y gibuhat, Ma’am”. Ohhhkay. The Stalker This is the overly friendly student, who at

first would tell you about how much she likes you because of the way you handle your classes. Then as the semester progresses, she starts asking you personal questions such as “Where did you spend your holiday?” , “Who was that person you were with at the mall?” , “Where do you live?” , “What color of underwear do you like to wear?” , “How is your girlfriend?” She’s also always looking at your Facebook page and leaving you messages. Then, in front of her classmates, she tells you that she is upset with you because you did not greet her on her birthday. The Text Buddy This student probably has unlimited load all the time. He knows your phone number because someone gave it to him (that someone being another student who got your number from someone else, too). He doesn’t mind texting you day and night, night and day. If he isn’t forwarding senseless jokes or quotes or chain messages, he is asking you about the class project that you have assigned to him and his classmates. Now and again, he asks you to either excuse him from the class because of this or that reason or extend the requirement deadlines. The evening before his exam, he texts you and inquires about the chapters that he has to study. Apparently, he

forgot to copy the pointers that you gave two days ago. If you are gracious enough to reply to him he texts back and says, “Ma’am sayona ra baya ha!” then he completes the statement with a smiley sticking out its tongue at you. Perfect. The One in the Zzzone This is the student who has a PhD in catching zzzz’s in class. It doesn’t matter if his teacher or the subject is interesting, he is always asleep. Sometimes it’s because of insomnia or some sleeping pattern problem. Other times, it’s because of a schoolwork deadline. Whatever the reason is, this student sure has an internal alarm clock that goes off every one hour and fifteen minutes because he wakes up right before you tell his classmates that they are dismissed. Then he goes to his next class and starts the cycle all over again. The Stargazer She likes to gaze at everything, but mostly she likes to gaze at you. And get this – it’s the only thing she does throughout the period. Well, the good news is that there is a possibility that she thinks you’re some sort of dreamy star. The bad news is – the possibility is very slim. Oh well, huh.

Mr. Goodbar Not only is Mr. Goodbar a member of various organizations but he is also an officer in many of them. He gets good grades and is articulate in his pronunciation of the English language. He looks rich, acts rich and is most likely rich. He is probably very popular, too. He’s absolutely ideal – except that he walks around with a hydrocephalic head. As the observer, you wonder how he manages to walk a straight line with such a heavy weight sitting upon his shoulders. Amazing! *** Now, don’t get me wrong. I don’t have anything against my students or about the student body in general. Be that as it may, I am human and as a human being, I make observations. Anyway, there you have it – the six students who you would not want to meet in campus. You could hope against all hope not to have them in your sections, still they may creep up on you from the different corners of the class list. So, for the teachers, have you met these students yet? And for the students, let me end my thoughts with bato-bato sa langit ang matamaan ay – well, you know the drill. Let’s just hope walang tinamaan.C

It’s official... (from page 1) in Public Policy in Harvard University; and finally Doctor of Philosophy in Economics from the University College London. Fr. Yap’s leadership qualities as a researcher and professional are notable, having had extensive work experience both in the corporate and academic scenes. He was head of numerous boards and groups, and involved with projects and research studies poised mostly at the environmental conservation and sustainable economics. Fr. Yap had also spent time working with several publications both here and abroad. Big expectations for a “baby president” “I am very blessed as a baby president,” remarked Fr. Yap jokingly during his inaugural address. “I have inherited a thriving and healthy Xavier University from Fr. Jett [Villarin]. He deserves great credit for his leadership in moving forward Ateneo de Cagayan so successfully. My role will be, in part, to carry on what he has started. I will certainly continue to pursue the three University Development Goals that Fr. Jett articulated: Stronger Formation, Greater Societal Engagement and Better Administration.” Fr. Villarin, in his term, had restructured the University by forming clusters for administration, academics, mission and ministry, research and social outreach, and basic and technical education. He had successfully promoted what he considers the true role of the academe: to make most of its vast pool of experts for inter-disciplinary research beneficial to XU’s immediate responsibilities – the marginalized sectors, Mindanao, and the nation at large. Among the other achievements credited to Fr. Villarin’s six-year term include several multimillion-peso expansion and construction projects. Both presidents vowed to continue cooperation between their universities in the span of their administrations. Although Fr. Yap, who is more than aware of the daunting challenge the “rock-star president” had left for him, was doubtful on only one thing: that he would never live up to Fr. Villarin’s “crush-ng-bayan” status. Though joking, his colleagues in the Jesuit Order would like to think otherwise. “As I am truly grateful for the quality administrators, dedicated faculty and staff, and wonderful students of XU; I am deeply humbled by the legacy of leadership that I have inherited,” said Fr. Yap on his tribute to Fr. Villarin. “Daghang salamat, Jett, igsoon ug amigo.” Bettering formation Continuing the thrust for Stronger Formation,

PRESIDENTIAL TRINITY. Fr. Yap receives the symbols of presidency: the medallion, the mace and the university charter. Following this, he lays out his plans for XU during his inaugural speech.

Fr. Yap aims on deepening Ignatian spirituality not just among students but teachers as well. “We shall structure a program of progression where our faculty and staff will be able to undergo the various stages of prayer experiences of the Spiritual Exercises: from recollections to live-out retreats to retreats in daily life to live-in three-, fiveand eight-day silent retreats.” On Fr. Yap’s time, full 30-day Spiritual Exercises—something that used to be experienced by Jesuits and seminarians alone—will be provided to those of the laity who are “ready” and “willing”. Preparing for K+12 Preparations for K+12 are a top priority in Fr. Yap’s list, trusting that legislation is likely to occur. K+12, which would effectively add a twoyear senior high school as a prerequisite to college, intends to prepare students for either college or immediate work. An economist, Fr. Yap favors K+12’s design such that the need to supply the economy’s demand for competencies is apparent. But the passing of K+12 will also mean one thing: that the education system of the Philippines will be completely overhauled (and XU’s along with it). “These extra two years will not only mean that our XU High School will have to offer two more years of pre-university college-bound training,” explains the new president. “It will likewise imply that Xavier will have to offer programs for the

(V. VillO)

career-bound track. We will strengthen and align the technical and vocational courses offered by our Center for Integrated Technologies. All our undergradaute colleges may have to offer two-year ladderized programs on the career-bound track for their respective fields.”

wastes will be composted, and rainwater recycled. The energy use of the whole campus will be audited to determine excesses. For Fr. Yap, a green campus “appreciates the goodness of creation and discerns the active presence of God within creation”.

Living with climate change Fr. Yap sees the necessity to realize “a foodsecure, climate change-resilient and sustainable Mindanao”. Picking up on Xavier University – Research and Social Outreach’s (XU-RSO) longrunning Ridges-to-Rivers-to-Reefs program as a flagship project, the president expects continued coordination among XU’s experts in various fields – a critical ingredient if Mindanao is to adapt with the local effects of climate change. Furthermore, he adds, “Our efforts at adaptation must always ensure that we give special attention to the poorest of the poor who live in the margins, in ecologically-fragile areas, in the geographic frontiers.”

Stronger university administration “Dili na inato, apan ato-a kanunay.” The key to a “better administration” according to Fr. Yap is professionalism in the spirit of friendship and service. Developing a “more professional organization at XU” will require a strong sense of community most of all. He points that implementing policies and procedures should not be done “in a bureaucratic, impersonal way”. Balanced professionalism with the Ignatian value of cura personalis is fundamental. Fr. Yap reckons, “Dili na [murag] gamay nga grocery ang XU… [mura’g] shopping mall na ‘ta. Dili na pwede nga inato ang atong mga pama-agi. Our systems, policies and procedures need to be of a quality that is at par with the leading national and international universities.”C

Promoting conservation Fr. Yap will be implementing plans for a greener Xavier University campus with environment-friendly and energy-efficient methods. He plans to set up a Materials Recovery Facility while promoting the use of environmentfriendly cleaning agents and cutting off on harmful substances such as styrofoam. Yard leaves and fruit

Sources: Xavier University Communications Group The Guidon, official student publication of Ateneo de Manila University Office of the University President, XU

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CLASH OF THE AGGIES

ARTSCIES

EDUCATION

ENGINEERING

SBM

Rampaging through the competition Just last year, the Bullriders of the College of Agriculture engaged in a fierce showdown with now defending champ SBM for the men’s basketball title. Although the Aggies fell short for the second straight time, it seems backing down is not an option for them this year.

Stripes of Experience Famed as one of the perennial bets for the championship, the College of Arts and Sciences has been making its presence felt, especially in its trademark sports: men’s soccer, women’s basketball, and taekwondo. In 2010, their men’s soccer team had their 4th straight win,the women’s basketball team won their 3rd championship in a row, and the men’s taekwondo team harvested four golds.

Past burnouts The School of Education (SOE) Phoenixes, for the past couple of years, have been stuck in sixth place, landing only two golds: dance sport (2009) and lawn tennis (2010). As a whole, they earned 117 points last time, 38 less than their 2009 output, and nowhere near the top three.

Under the eagle’s shadow Three years back, the College of Engineering broke SBM’s winning streak in the cheerdance competition. Since then, however, Engineering only held 2nd place for the 2009 contest and 3rd place for 2010.

And it was all yellow After six consecutive years of being the overall champion, the School of Business and Management (SBM) Eagles seem to have made yellow the new gold in the University Intramurals. Proof of their reign is the nine out of fifteen sports events they topped last year, namely basketball, karatedo, softball, badminton, volleyball, chess, table tennis, lawn tennis and taekwondo.

The green-clad troop, despite not making it to the top three overall, has been making waves in the annual Intramurals for the past two years, earning recognition in football, taekwondo, and softball. Eyeing the top spot, they are hungry as ever, and with good reason. “For the past two years, kay gabalik na ang spirit… na naa gyud sila sa championship game bitaw ang College of Agriculture,” says Rowell Cortes, Prime Minister of the Agriculture Student Council (ASC). No bullseye The main thing that kept the Aggies from winning in certain sports was the lack of discipline, according to Cortes. “Maayo gyud ang each na player bitaw, it just so happened na... ang training bitaw kay kulang, kay dili pud sila gatunga… pero what’s positive about that, despite dili sila ga-practice kaayo, naa giyapon sila’y willingness. Spontaneous baya daw ang Aggies,” he adds. Whether or not their players’ attitude will bring forth their victory or downfall, we will have to wait and see.

With more victories, the Tigers proved to have a very solid roster. Though falling short on its title aspirations, the Tigers are installed as one of the favorites for the Intrams championship title. The Tigers’ point of view Talent, teamwork, plus a skilled and capable coach add up to victory, say some of the Tigers’ athletes.

Other problems last year ranged from conditioning, discipline and even communication issues. With new Phoenixes joining the university-wide sporting events, they have higher hopes.

“There were [many] personal talents involved last year...but that aside, I would say a good coach and the trainings he showed us,” states Eryk Gogo, player for the men’s soccer and taekwondo teams, when asked about the soccer team’s strengths.

Underdogs Roger Patlunag, team captain of the men’s basketball squad says, “Amo lang gyud gusto i-prove, bisan gi-turing nila’g underdogs, dili lang gyud sila magkumpyansa sa amoa.”

Third placers share their opinions on eluding the most coveted gold.

Attitude can bring about their success or defeat; they try to keep their on-and-off-court habits in check.

“Our coach [was] a good role model,” remarks Ranz Ostrea, player for the men’s basketball team, last year’s third placers. “We wanted to win, but they just played better.” “Sadly we didn’t win because of a false sense of security,” opines Angelo Medal, captain of the men’s softball team, also a 3rd placer.

Revving up for the rodeo What’s notable with the Bullriders is the support they get from the college. “Supportive kaayo ang faculty, especially the dean. In all our endeavors kay naa gyud siya…siya ra man siguro ang dean na, kung naa’y practice kay mutunga siya just to oversee what is happening, unsa’y current situation,” shares Cortes.

A leap to success “We are actually more organized in our practices; last year it was just run like ROTC, pushups and running. But now we have game plans, routines, playing a bit smarter, and we are reaching out to have practice games [with] teams [from] other parts of Mindanao,” reports Medal.

According to him, the moral support from their mentors compensates for their difficulties. This, coupled with their determination, makes the Bullriders a formidable force.

Ostrea, meanwhile, says, “Sa una, gasalig mi sa Seniors; karon, gakastand-up na mi sa challenge. Gi-handaan gud mi sa Intrams... we started our practices earlier [this year] than last year.”

“Ga-stand out gyud ang Aggies spirit,” Cortes exalts. “Despite the downfalls… still, moving on giyapun ang practices… and naa pud ang willingness sa Aggie athletes na magpadayon gyud.”

“This year’s practices have been a lot tougher and stricter,” states Gogo, speaking for the Artscies taekwondo team. “An improvement would be being able to access or practice on a ‘Dojang’ [or] taekwondo gym,” he adds.

Will the Bullriders finally be able to pick themselves up one more time, brandish their whips and ride through this year’s Intrams?

Partly responsible for their lackluster showing during the past Intrams is their absence from sepak takraw and swimming. “Wala daw players. Siguro ulaw sila kay kusog kaha ang uban teams sa takraw,” says Cassandra Daba, Department of Physical Enhacement head.

Will the Tigers complete a critical pounce and capture the title this year? Or will they be tamed by their foes?

“On the court, there [were] some players who [wanted] to play on their own,” Patlunag says of last year’s team. “Mao na akong ginatry ug change karon sa akong mga players. Na kita tanan wala’y stars sa ato, equal ta tanan.”

In the overall standings, Engineering has been ranking 2nd place for past two years, although their total score had increased from 455 points (2009) to 480 (2010), with a margin that was whittled down to just 23 points. Could this be the foreshadowing of a much-awaited victory? The Warriors have long since been tired of being second. This time, they intend to go beyond that. Battlecry and setbacks According to Chuckie Erfe, team captain of the men’s Basketball team, “Our team performance last year was... personally disappointing... Three months sa practice, grabe paningkamot, unya kato ra ang outcome.” One major problem that the team had been facing time and again was finding a good practice venue. “Gamay ra maka-time sa school, sa gawas pud siging ulan ana,” Erfe continued. But if there is one thing that propelled the Warriors to near victory, it’s their solidarity. They’ve always been known to march as one maroon-clad army. And for the upcoming Intrams, they plan to bring the trophy home.

Teamwork is also very essential. Mia Vedad, captain of the women’s football team states, “Mao gyud na dapat namo buhaton. And then communication.”

“Ang panaghiusa sa mga Warriors [ang magpadaog namo]. Ingon pa gali nila, we fight as one,” says Neil Salvaloza, Department of Physical Enhancement head of the Association of the College of Engineering Students.

Towards the rebirth The Phoenixes started recruitment very early and are holding twiceor-thrice-a-week practices to get ready for this year’s competition. In women’s volleyball alone, tryouts started as early as June to increase their chances of winning.

Into the field The Warriors are going for the glory with high hopes. “[We started] early sa practice... Late June nagstart na gyud mi,” Erfe says.

But more than the trophy, the Phoenixes have one thing in mind: to enjoy the competition—win or lose—and keep their bonds intact. “[Love] the sport lang,” said Vedad. “For enjoyment man pud ni siya.” Will the SOE Phoenixes stick to the near bottom of the competition, or will they finally hold true to their name, and rise from the ashes?

“Pareho ra man among training last year. Pero ang difference is ang among teamwork. Mas ni ‘gel’ pa gyud mi karon,” he adds. COE might be known for being SBM’s fiercest rival, but they still consider the other colleges as threats and challenges to their main goal. As Erfe says, “We are not taking any team for granted.” “For our college, you can trust us. You can count on us na maningkamot mi... [para] i-abot gyud namo [ang] among goal. We only ask for your support. For the other colleges, watch out.”

Writers: Lyle Justin A. Egay, Caroline Joy R. Go, Marc Stephen S. Manuel, Ruth Anne B. Suson, Anna Althea W. Vergara, Robert A. Villaluz Jr. and Leasusana C. Ty Design by: Kristoffer James L. Nambatac

Soaring higher than ever, is seven going to be their lucky number? Going grand slam? The Eagles pulled off a three-peat in men’s basketball over the Aggies Bullriders in 2010. Their games have always been neck and neck for the past two years. Do we see a four-peat? Or will the Bullriders be able to take the crown from the Eagles this year? In Women’s Badminton, it would be their 4th championship in doubles event if they sweep the court this year. Meanwhile, in women’s table tennis a grand slam is awaiting their doubles. Winning streak Under the spotlight will be the School of Business and Management (SBM) All-Stars. Having won for two consecutive years—after Engineering Warriors cut short what would have been a streak in 2008—the All-Stars are set to nail the grand slam this year. “Gaka-pressure mi, ang amo is to aim na ma perfect namo among routine, na malingaw ang mga tao… ma-prove namo na defending champion mi,” states assistant team captain Arthur Jhon Escabusa. “Wala mi nag-ingun na mudaog gyapon mi… kanang maka-perform mi with all our hearts, para ma give og justice bitaw among mga practices og sacrifices.” adds team captain Jumaline Luga. Will it be yellow still? A closer overall point difference in the college scoring year after year, (SBM won by 120 points in 2009, while they won by a margin of only 23 last year) might give us a hint that maybe, just maybe, we won’t be seeing yellow this year. Will anyone be able to bring the Eagle down? Or will SBM still soar on top?

The

Crusader | SPORTS

COLLEGES

an intrams primer

NURSING The past Just last year, both the Nursing women’s soccer team and the women’s chess team won their 2nd straight championship, and the men’s chess team followed suit. The Pythons also closed as 2nd in cheerdance, grappled 2nd and 3rd in table tennis, and dominated in Women’s Karatedo . But compared to the college giants, the School of Nursing Pythons has had a streak of forgettable performances. Despite the concurrent unorthodox style and theatrics, they ended up in fifth place overall with 285 points. Will this year be different? With a smaller population compared to the big colleges, will the Pythons heighten up their game? The Python’s eyes Teamwork and a lot of hard work is what gives the sports teams of the College of Nursing an edge. “It is not the variety of players in one team, but the hard work they put in by being a team that makes these athletes very good at what they do. All it takes is a little practice, and hard work,” says Daniel de la Torre, a player for the men’s soccer team. Slithering up the finish lines The Pythons ready themselves by working hard to develop their players, highlighting on the fields of teamwork, ability and endurance. “[We do] team building, and bonding, and just playing,” says Python mainstay Stephen Lim. Determination is what sets this group of athletes from the rest, but of course they also want to have fun in the Intrams. De la Torre said “We’ll be there, and we’ll be having fun. What’s the purpose of participating in sports if you don’t have fun?”

Though relegated to an uncelebrated berth, the Pythons parade a prized blood renewal of their athletes. Will it be enough to come up with an upset and grab the most coveted Intrams plum?

CIT

COMP STUD

LAW

Lost in the shuffle While being known for their athleticism, the Center for Integrated Technologies has been stranded in the bottom three for two years in a row. Last year, they garnered a total of 117 points, 15 more than their output during the 2009 Intrams.

Baptism by Fire One of the biggest stories of this year’s Intramurals would have to be the addition of the Wizards to the pool of competitors.

On and Off the Court For years, the College of Law athletes have been troubled by time and preparation difficulties which translated to bleak days during the Intramurals. They closed out their campaign last year with a woeful 14 points.

Despite the Knights getting the gold in men’s softball and bronze in table tennis, CIT’s efforts were not enough to get them out of the 7th overall rank. However, they are determined to give a better showing this year. “On strategy, we are climbing up the ladder of success. Whatever records we held last year, we’ll do our best in attaining higher if not the highest.”, says Jaymar Piolino, Department of Physical Enhancement head of CITSC. The orange phalanx One of the problems the Knights have been facing is their lack of manpower, along with the fact that their college doesn’t exactly have a high student population. But they don’t see this as a disadvantage this time. “We may be few, but we are solid,” Piolino says of the CIT athletes. Charging forward As are most colleges, CIT is fervent in their preparation for the Intrams. CIT’s department head for the Intrams talks of their preparations this year, “This school year, we went through a rough selection and training with the players, [regardless] of our number, and made sure that each one is good enough to play against the other colleges and with his own team as well.” “We play with mind, body and heart that [nothing] could compare [to] the victory we feel at each end of the game...win or lose.” This year, will the orange-clad athletes prove to be a contender amongst the powerhouse colleges, or will they still stay in the background?

Claiming its autonomy from the College of Engineering, the Wizards would have to face the trouble of drafting new players to the young team. A few months of established rapport would be put to test against the dominant forces XU Intramurals have seen. Another toggle of this debut would be the effect it will do to the College of Engineering Warriors – whether or not it would bring forth a decline to the performance of the Warriors who were the stellar bets for last year’s championship and remains to be a perennial champion contender. Being a part of last year’s Warriors team which landed to the second best berth, the Wizards are heavily rooted to deliver. “The pressure is quite heavy, to tell you frankly,” states karate team captain Chara Lacang. But in spite of this, the Wizards still believe that to victory isn’t the only thing about the intramurals. “Win or lose, we battle with our best for there may be pressure but we know grace.” Lacang adds. Would the new broom sweep as well as they say it would be? Would Comp Stud debut with a bang? Or would the newly-instated Wizards fall to the established contenders?

But having to juggle studies, practice and work – they have the least reason to put their heads down. Their dumbfounding 2nd place landing in the women’s volleyball during the Intramurals 2008 and their 3rd place conquest in last year’s women’s badminton doubles prove that they have what it takes to win the games on another “court”. And spite of all the ordeals, athlete Armen Malawani states, “There is still that drive [in our teams] to just ‘give it a go’.” With just a few days left before the Intramurals open, Malawani believes that their teams are already in good shape. On winning the games, he opines, “I’d like to believe that impossibilities can only exist by our definition of it. Even if landing that elusive gold can only happen by a very, very long shot, we’re quite optimistic.” Will the College of Law succeed in turning their case around and make a difference in this year’s tourney?

MEDICINE In need of intensive care Surpassing only the College of Law, the Jose P. Rizal School of Medicine Wolves have been in the near bottom for the past two years, netting 47 overall points on 2009 and 34 last year. They had been plagued by problems such as lack of skill and schedule constraints, since their graduate course demands so much of their time. “Only [a] few of us are real athletes… in terms of [skill]. And many of our losses [were] due to default because we [were] not excused from our classes during the Intramurals,” Jan Felicilda, head of the Department of Physical Enhancement, speaks about their last stint. The Wolves this year, according to him, are sadly limited by their full schedules. “I’m a graduate of the College of Nursing and was also an athlete that time. Ma-compare jud nako ang ka-busy. Para sa ako, med life is ten times mas busy compared sa akong nursing life. So mao na, lisud na jud mag-spend [ug] time for practice.” However, he states that that won’t stop the Wolves from going out and giving their all. “Expect that we still put up our best,” Felicilda says on a closing note.

pokus pokus!! churva churva!! eto na ang mga hulang nakakaloka!! ito ay totoo, maniwala ka!! pero ang ending ani kay.. “attik wruh!!” AQUARIUS PAGBANTAY THIS DAY KAY NAY MANGLUWA NIMO, KADTO BITAW GUY NA PUGOT ULO? LUCKY COLOR: LIGHT WHITE LUCKY DAY: FEBRUARY 29 PISCES NAKA COLOR WHITE ANG IMUHANG SOULMATE, LOOK TO THE LEFT LOOK TO THE RIGHT WALA NANG IBA IT’S YOUR CLASSMATE!! LUCKY COLOR: DARK BLACK LUCKY DAY: YESTERDAY SCORPIO ABSENT IMONG UYAB TODAY, YOU KNOW WHY? IT’S THEIR WEDDING DAY..HURAAY!! LUCKY COLOR:BABY PINK, MAMA PINK LUCKY DAY: INDEPENDENCE DAY CANCER DO SOMETHING GOOD TO YOUR KAPWA MIGO, MIGA, IT’S BEEN A WHILE YOUR SUNGAY TAAS NA. LUCKY COLOR:ALL COLORS BASTA RED LUCKY DAY: FOREVER AND TODAY CAPRICORN NITUKAR NASAD IMONG PAGKA BUNGAWON, GIINOM NIMO ANG RICE, ANG TUBIG GIKAON. LUCKY COLOR: NAVY BLUE, ARMY BLUE LUCKY DAY: THE DAY AFTER TOMORROW

CONTRIBUTION

ARIES I’LL GIVE YOU A TIP FOR INSTANT GANDA, FOUR WORDS “ADOBE PHOTOSHOP LANG HIGALA”

The Student Factor A response to “The Teacher Factor”

LUCKY COLOR: HEPA YELLOW LUCKY DAY: YOUR BIRTHDAY!! HURAAY!!

By Elisabeth Mondaya

hen I read TheCrusader Publication’s article about the five types of teachers that student would not want to meet in Xavier University, I casually told my sister that someone from the teacher’s side should speak up and write some sort of reply to it. Then she and I went on to talk about more pressing concerns such as the deadline for the midterm grades and stuff. A couple of days later, while going through the arduous task of checking the papers and the exams of my students, I remembered the article and thought about what I said to her. Now, I know that the article wasn’t intended to bash teachers – after all, I don’t think that anyone would write something like it out of pure malice. I suppose it was meant to tickle the funny bones of the readers (it tickled mine) and at the same time, inform those of us who are members of the faculty about the need to improve ourselves. Still, I think that if the students can write about their observations of their teacher’s characteristics, then we, the teachers, can also write about our observations of them. After all, if they say that they spend eight hours of their day staring at us or listening to us, well, we also spend eight hours of our day talking to them, listening to them and (like it or not) observing them. At least I do anyway.

(continue to p.7)

SAGUITARIUS SOMEONE WILL GIVE YOU A NOTE, UNSA PA DIAY? YOUR UTANG!! DON’T LIMOT2X LUCKY COLOR: ANYTHING NA VIOLET LUCKY DAY: BIRTHDAY TAURUS IT’S TIME TO LOOSEN UP, LAAG DIRI LAAG DADTO. PAGBANTAY LANG KANG DORA DIHA SA KANTO. LUCKY COLOR: TAN, URANGUTAN LUCKY DAY: BIRTHDAY VIRGO WOW! MAKITA NIMO SI MANINAY, HALA!? HOLDING HANDS MAN WITH YOUR TATAY. LUCKY COLOR: GREEN LUCKY DAY: SOMEDAY LEO YOUR LOVE LIFE WILL BLOOM AGAIN, A FLOWER LIKE OTOT2X IN THE GARDEN. LUCKY COLOR: COLORLESS LUCKY DAY: SHATURDAY KAY NIGHT CAFE

Illustrations by Rico Magallona

The Text Buddy

The Stalker

The One in the Zzzone

LIBRA AYAW INTAWON PAG HUBOG2X, MUGAWAS IMONG HIDDEN SELF UNYA IKAW MABULABOG. LUCKY COLOR: FUSHA AY RID NALANG LUCKY DAY: DAY JAH VUH GEMINI HUWAG MONG IPILIT ANG SARILI MO SA TAONG AYAW KA, MALAY MO PARA SAKIN KA PALA. ESTEPLEREE!

Mr. Goodbar

The Stargazer

The MPA

LUCKY COLOR: GOLD HEAGLE BER LUCKY DAY: EVERYDAY BASTA KAY SUNDAY