2014 CAMPUS ELECTION ISSUE
Decoding the recent trend of one-party races By John Kenneth E. Ching
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lyansang Atenista (AA), XU’s preeminent student political party for a good part of three decades, enters this year’s polls with a full slate. For an XU student familiar with the political atmosphere within the campus, this doesn’t come off as a surprise since it can be counted upon that AA fields another set of leaders every year. With the recent trend of one-horse races in both Central Student Government (CSG) and college council elections, students wonder whether the exercise of voting is for purposes of formality. The Crusader interviews XU Law student
Ernesto Neri, who has been observing campus leadership and politics scenes after his stint as CSG president in AY 2010-2011. Setting down roots For him, AA’s strength is its sustainability— the support of the alumni, which Neri calls as the ‘elders’, and that they help bring in new faces for the party. Of course, recruits are subjected to selection protocol by the party, ensuring themselves that whoever runs as an AA candidate is someone who embodies the party’s ideals the best. Ideology-wise, he feels that AA is adopting a moderate approach on relevant campus and
national concerns. When he ran as CSG Vice President in 2009, he remembered the left-leaning opposing party—Lihok Atenista—taking a stand on some of the thornier issues at that time. “Ang ilang ginaespouse kay the recognition of fraternities, naay gender desk. Mga things that AA doesn’t touch.” He adds, “Makaingon ko na ang AA kay naay pagka-conservative.” The lack of political will Simply put, there is a general decrease of political will in the campus, as well as the community, today.
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CSG petitions for “No Permit, No Exam” repeal By Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas
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n light of the CHED Memorandum Order 9 series of 2013, the Central Student Government (CSG) has proposed for the abolition of the ‘No Permit, No Exam’ (NPNE) policy in XU. The order also requested higher educational institutions to be lenient with students who may classify as financially-challenged. No Permit, No Exam In XU, the policy states the need to show an Admit-to-Exam Slip before taking the midterm and final exams. As the policy says, if the slip cannot be presented to the proctor, the student will be unable to take the exam and will instead receive an INC
for his subjects, with a 30-day period to settle his balances. Not only that, but he will also have to pay an extra PHP 100 for every delayed exam he takes. Unless the balance isn’t settled within the allotted period, the INC will turn into an F. What the abolition of the NPNE policy aims to achieve is to allow students to take major exams, specifically during finals week, despite not paying their current balance on time. “We just want them to be allowed to take the exams even without the payment yet. It’s a matter of timing, eh. What we’re trying to lobby for is the timing,” says CSG President Princess Ubay-ubay.
Weeding out misconceptions The common misconception of the abolition of the No Permit, No Exam policy is that it would be easier for students to avoid paying their school fees, causing the university to be unable to pay the operational costs to function normally. However, Ubay-ubay clarifies that the abolition of NPNE policy is effective only during the finals week to safeguard the university’s finances. “We’re not saying that this abolition of the [NPNE] would mean not paying their tuition fees anymore. What we had [agreed] was that students really have to pay for the midterm week since we’re concerned of the cash flow of the University. What
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Juan Manuel Mandac, 18 By Louren B. Aranas
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uan Manuel Mandac, a Business Administration freshman, was found dead on February 5 at Barangay Balulang near Taguanao Bridge. He was 18. At around 10 PM on February 3, Monday, after receiving a text message, Mandac bid goodbye to his mother and said he’d be back. He was with a friend who, later on, will be a witness in this case. The victim insisted to his friend that he go alone. “Kay ingon man to iyang kastorya na, ‘Ayaw na’g ubana ang usa, ikaw ra,” his father, Manuel, shared. Their evidence lie in the name mentioned by Mandac when his friend asked who was at the other line of the phone, and in the plate number seen by his other friend who also surfaced as a witness. The autopsy report concluded that blunt force trauma in the head caused his death. His remains were buried on February 9 at Cagayan de Oro Gardens. Friendly and ‘secretive’ His father describes his son, the younger of two children, as having a wide circle of friends. He’s also aware that some things are kept hidden until now. “Kaning anak nako is very secretive … I don’t even know if he has a girlfriend. I was surprised of the incident. Nakita ko unsa ba diay ni akong anak. Kalawom ba diay sa dulot. Nakita ko iyang mga friends and classmates nga ga-tabang gyud sa ako.” As far as his father knows, the two suspects for Mandac’s death are second year college students in XU who happen to be his son’s friends. He said he had always reminded his child to prioritize his studies and avoid befriending people who could be a bad influence.
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NEWS
CIT celebrates 30th anniversary By McHael D. Poncardas
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he Center for Integrated Technologies (CIT) celebrated its milestone 30th year with a grand culminating event in the Jose Ch. Alvarez Technology Complex on February 14. The whole event, which ran from February 12-14, was an eclectic mix of fun and learning as forums, exhibits, and orientations dotted the list of activities. “The best way to be hopeful is to get up and do something. Thus, these CIT days, we
make things happen,” says Dr. Gilda B. Brito, CIT director. She adds, “CIT sends the message to the community that our future will be great if we collaborate.” One of the highlights of the celebration, the Industry-Academe Forum on ‘K-12 Challenges: How it affects everyone’, was held during the last day and was attended by well-known companies, school principals, city officials, and University President Roberto C. Yap, SJ.
UNCHAINED. (Left to Right) Ms. Teresita Emata, CITSC President Ms. Jessa Petalcorin, CIT Days 2014 Overall Cordinator Engr. Eugenio Caga, CIT Director Dr. Gilda B. Brito, PhD, and Mr. William B. Moring officially open CIT’s 30th anniversary celebration with a symbolic chain-cutting. A.A. Gandamra
ELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY. High school toured around the campus as they were showed what CIT students do in one of their subjects. A.A. Gandamra
The aspiring technicians participated in various skill competitions. They demonstrated as well their skills in machining, welding, assembly and disassembly, and AutoCAD. High school students from different institutions were also given a tour around the campus on the second day. Free car diagnostics and checkup were offered during the whole duration of the event.
Prior to the forum, CIT students, faculty, staff, alumni and PTA officers took part in an outreach program at Cabanglasan, Bukidnon. This year’s theme, “Celebrating 30 years of Molding Technicians the Ateneo Way,” deeply exemplifies CIT’s continuous pursuit of producing more technicians with utmost competence in the future.C
information because the organizations are spending the money of the students,” he added. Balarias gave three reasons for students to support the bill. First is for easy access to information that should be shown to the public and to see if our government is using the taxpayers’ money for the right purposes. Second is for transparency and accountability in our government, while the third is to limit the
corruption in the country. Buklod Atenista comprises the different student leaders from five Ateneo schools: Ateneo de Manila University, Ateneo de Davao University, Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Ateneo de Naga University, and XU. Its aim is to unite the views and perspectives of the students in every Ateneo school, as well as formulating a common stand regarding pressing Philippine issues.C
XU, Buklod Atenista supports FOI B By Rezza Mae B. Tolinero
uklod Atenista, an association of student leaders from the five Ateneo universities, passed a resolution supporting the Freedom of Information (FOI) Bill. The FOI bill allows the public to check and monitor the government’s data. Through it, the right of people to know is exercised and issues about transparency and accountability will be open to the general public. In the university level, Ron Bryan Balarias,
XU’s representative for Buklod, expresses that passage of the said resolution means that the different student organizations are required to be transparent in reporting their expenses for the year. He emphasizes the need for the student organizations to report the expenses that is spent to regulate and monitor expenditures, and to see if those said expenditures are justifiable. “We (students) should all be given adequate
FEATURES
Voter fatigue: Students’ or system’s flaw? By Saharah Iman M. Alonto
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uring the last campus elections, the voter’s turnout was only 39.49 percent. This figure tells us that 6498 out of the 10738 college students of Xavier University chose not to vote. The 2011 and 2012 elections turnouts, 40.19 percent and 37.52 percent respectively, show a similar low percentage. This trend raises concerns on indifference among XU students, as well as the relevance of the CSG and the college councils. Why not? In order to find out and understand the demographic better, TheCrusader publication conducted a survey to investigate the students’ voting attitude. In this survey, 52 percent of the 123 participants reported that they either didn’t vote last campus election or won’t vote this coming election. Among these participants, their top three reasons for not voting are: lack of information regarding the campus elections; lack of time to vote; and lack of candidate choices.
XU-CSG Electoral Commission (ELECOM) Head, Sandra Retes, has a different take on the matter. She speculated that the possible reasons for low turnouts are due to “the student’s lack of interest to the candidates and to the university events, like campus elections.” In the aforementioned survey, only 15.63 percent of these participants reasoned disinterest as why they didn’t vote. Part of the task of the ELECOM is to inform and encourage the students to vote. If students say they weren’t sufficiently informed, the ELECOM would be accountable for it. In their defense, Retes emphasized that they did everything they could in letting the students know about the polls. “The ELECOM highly believes that enough actions have been taken to disseminate information through various means such as posters, tarpaulins, bulletin boards, videos, flyers and even [in] social networking sites,” she reports. “This is just
to cover up their unresponsiveness to this kind of university event.” They proposed a cut-off of classes in hopes to expand voting time, but were denied. Unfazed, Retes believes that students still have enough time. “The voting process only takes five to ten minutes… It is impossible for one to not have spare time to vote.” None or change The fourth most-cited reason is that they don’t see a positive evolution in the campus government system, considering how they see it being run by the same parties—they don’t see change. Retes stresses, “If you want change then it’s your responsibility to make sure they do change. It’s (voting) more than a responsibility; it’s [also] a privilege. There’s a campus elections coming up soon. Whether you like the candidates or not, vote.” This trend also extended to voting habits in local and national elections.
Interestingly, 67.77 percent of the survey participants haven’t voted in the last national elections as well. Among these non-voters, 43.33 percent were unregistered and could not cast their ballots despite being of legal age. *** The previous elections struggled with attaining enough votes to be declared successful. And this matters, seeing as how about a third of the student population decides who gets to represent the entire student body. Retes wonders, “Lately, it has become known to everyone how apathetic the students are in this academe.” While students may have their own reasons not to vote, having a vibrant campus political scene also helps in improving university life. If anything, it puts them on a better position to advance their personal and academic development in XU.C
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NEWS
XU prepares MISSCon 2014 and the for class Millenium Development Goals
opening shift
By Marina M. Garcia, with contributions from Ben Clark B. Balase
By Rezza Mae Tolinero
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INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION. AB International Students from Xavier University partook in the 10th Mindanao International Studies Society Convention themed ‘Realizing MDGs: Rekindling History. Probing the present. Building tomorrow’. B.C. Balase
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n February 6-9, the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) hosted the 10th Mindanao International Studies Society Convention (MISSCon) in Kidapawan City, which XU participated in. The principal reason for these gatherings are to promote camaraderie and mutual understanding among the participants, and inform them about significant international issues. This year’s theme was ‘Realizing MDGs: Rekindling History. Probing the present. Building tomorrow’. Initiated in September of 2000, the Millennium Development Goals (MDG), are the United Nation’s time-bound and quantified
targets in addressing key issues on poverty, education, gender equality, human rights, health, and environmental sustainability—all by 2015. Some of the keynote speakers include Jesus Domingo, Department of Foreign Affairs assistant secretary for United Nations concerns; Earl Saavedra of the National Youth Commission; Cotabato Governor Lala TaliñoMendoza; and Eko Hartono, Consul-General of Indonesia. The convention aimed to evaluate and discuss actions done in response to the call as the deadline nears. The audience, which was divided into eight groups (one per MDG), was introduced to the
significance of each goal, and then discussed the different ways to achieve such objectives, and their feasibility in the Philippines, among others. The participants of the annual convention were composed of International Studies and International Relations students from different universities all over Mindanao: USM, XU, Ateneo de Davao University, Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Mindanao State University, RC-Al Khwarizmi International College, and Mindanao Kokusai Daigaku. The 11th MISSCon will be hosted by Mindanao Kokusai Daigaku, a Japaneselanguage institution in Davao City.C
ollowing the lead of other Philippine universities, XU appears to be set in moving the start of its classes. As of press time, however, there is no final decision yet as to when to implement the said shift. University Treasurer Lennie Ong comments that XU is now on its great financial preparation for this major change. According to her, major things are to be done when this change of schedule is implemented; especially that K-12 education has been put to the educational system recently. “As to when to implement the change of class schedules, it’s not an individual decision. It is something that should be discussed by the whole school, and not in individual levels,” Ong adds. For her, it would be a great risk if XU will advance to the new schedule as early as the next school year. She points out that it would be the best to plan everything carefully. Sen. Franklin Drilon proposed the Senate Bill No. 2407 (transfer of school year from June to September) because June, July, and August are months when the country usually experiences strong typhoons. This synchronization of school calendar would also mean that it would be easier to study to other countries as an exchange student; the same is true for foreigners who wish to study here. The Philippines is one of the few countries that still follow the June-March academic calendar; most begin their classes in August, September, or October. “The university may undergo adjustments, but for me I know that everything will be fine eventually,” a student comments. On the other hand, another student expresses, “This change is okay for me; I guess this plan isn’t that much of a catalyst for change.”C
FEATURES
The Bloodline Advantage By Mary Isabel M. Meneses
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n observation, when a candidate has relatives in politics, his family name is his golden ticket to his victory. This advantage had established a vicious cycle in the society: regardless of eligibility, those who aren’t from political clans have almost no chances in winning against a candidate from a family of politicians. An edge in politics “Seven out of every ten members of the House of Representatives belong to a political dynasty–defined as having other relatives in elected positions–with the figure climbing to 80 percent in the Senate,” says Ronald Mendoza, an economist at the Asian Institute of Management. Philippine government is a family affair. Great examples are the Villars, Estradas, Arroyos, Marcos’ and Aquinos in national politics. In Mindanao, the Emanos of Misamis Oriental and the Dutertes of Davao are such examples.
A bill for equal chances From one generation to another, a lineup of both famous and infamous political dynasties has risen. Numerous political clans have already made their mark in making their provinces very happy with their services, yet there are those who are abusive of their positions. An example would be in 2013, 73 members of the Ampatuan clan in Maguindanao were running for office, despite their alleged involvement in the Maguindanao Massacre case. The Anti-Political Dynasty Act was approved on November 20, 2013. It seeks to enforce Art. II, Sec. 28 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution: “The State shall guarantee equal opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.” Varied reactions Political neophyte Nancy Binay criticizes the bill since it goes against the principle of vox populi, vox Dei, (“The voice of the people is the
voice of God.”) More than half of Congress also disagreed with the bill. Statistically speaking, only one for every seven lawmakers has no political family ties. Peter Dann Romualdo is a third year Agribus student whose family holds important positions in Camiguin politics. When asked if being a politician runs in the genes, he answered, “Para sa ako, dili. Kay mag-depende man na sa individual character ug abilidad sa tao. Pero kung ang imong relatives kay good examples para sa imo, possible ma-influence pud ka na mamaayo gihapon.” In a survey conducted in XU, 87 out of 100 students agreed with the implementation of the Anti-Political Dynasty bill. They believe that once it would be implemented, given that there would be new political leaders, it might reduce corruption in the country. Thirty percent of the correspondents agree that having the bill would lead to a fair and organized government. On the other hand, 13 percent disagree with the bill, reasoning that it might prohibit a
qualified person to lead just because he had relatives already holding an office. *** Through the years, most Filipino voters associate political candidates with their family backgrounds. With the implementation of the bill, how would the voting attitude of the Filipinos change? Would it result to a do-over to our political system? We’ll find out in 2016.C Sources: “SIX CENTURIES OF POLITICAL DYNASTIES: Why the Philippines will Forever be Ruled by Political Clans?”, Center for People Empowerment in Governance (http://www.cenpeg.org) “Political dynasties: bane or boon”, Inquirer (http://opinion.inquirer.net) “Nancy Binay criticizes anti-political dynasty bill”, PhilStar (http://www.philstar.com) “Philippine politics - it’s a family affair”, BBC http://www.bbc.co.uk)
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Harold Laborte: The unopposed By Angelica Franta F. Yanoyan
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’ve decided to continue leading our CSG […] bringing with me my vision of a student government that respects the students not simply because they are the ends of the law, but because they are the law itself; for they are, of course, our government.” Harold John Laborte is this year’s lone contender for Central Student Government president. Some supposed the former CSG Vice President and Convener of the Directorate is likely to pursue the highest post in the student government, while others were surprised with his decision, thinking he would retire from politics after such span of service. Thirteen years in the field Roughly 13 years of involvement in student governance make up for most of the leadership experience of Laborte, a Business Administration junior majoring in Business Economics. Politics and leadership have become his second nature, thus, it seemed fit that he venture into such endeavor in college. He served as a year-level representative in the School of Business and Management Student Council (SBMSC) for his first two years in XU. Laborte recalls his candidacy for CSG vice president academic year, “I was decided to run as the SBMSC president … I already finalized
my platform for the SBM student community, but suddenly there was a change in lineup in Alyansang Atenista (AA), my political party.” There emerged a vacancy in the CSG executive positions for AA and he was later asked to fill in the spot. A sophomore then, Laborte ran for CSG Vice President alongside presidential candidate Princess Ubay-ubay. His other involvements include being a volunteer for the Kristohanong Katilingban sa Pagpakabana – Social Involvement Office, and CdeO-Alliance of Students Supporting the Entrepreneurs of Tomorrow. He was also the XU liaison officer for the Ateneo Student Leaders Assembly. Greater calling Running for presidency wasn’t Laborte’s first choice. He intended to return to SBMSC after engaging in policy-making to pursue his plan of “engaging SBM students in social entrepreneurship and business leadership.” He says being in CSG allows him to serve a wider scope of people. “I decided to enter the arena in CSG with the thought that there is a greater calling in CSG… I discovered that there is still a lot to improve in CSG not only [in] the legislative branch. There is more that I can do in offering quality student services.”
One for the AGES Laborte pushes for his AGES platform— advancement, growth, engagement, and services—which led to the conception of AA’s slogan “Magis through the ages.” 1. Advancement in the system “I envision a CSG that is more responsive to the needs of our fellow Ateneans.” Laborte plans to execute this through internal advancement of the central units and college governments. He also seeks to uphold harmony between the executive branch, the legislative, judiciary, and constitutional committees. 2. Sectorial and organizational growth The presidential candidate says he wants the CSG to support not only the established extra- and co-curricular organizations, but also alternative organizations and people who are planning to build new ones (e.g. scholars, athletes, student assistants, United Religious Organizations, Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts). 3. Interactive student and civic engagement “I envision a [government] that engages our fellow Ateneans through the delivery of accurate information and information exchange… [with] continuing dialogue between the University
administration and the students and a unified University stand through a referendum on national issues.” To make communication effective and efficient, Laborte plans that networking links be coordinated with Buklod Atenista, ONECDO, and the city’s local government unit. Buklod Atenista is an organization of all student governments of the Ateneo universities in the Philippines. 4. Improve students’ services and welfare With the Students’ Rights and Welfare as the implementing body, Laborte stands for the enforcement of student services and welfare; that students maximize their rights as stated in the Magna Carta. He plans to establish a student welfare desk and to make a Magna Carta for student assistants, athletes and scholars. *** Unopposed for the third time in his personal political history, Harold nevertheless assures that he’s a worthy choice. “I can say that I’m winning this election as deemed worthy for the position, and not by default, because I know I can give them my best of service given my experiences, competence, and passionate commitment.”C
Nursing and vice presidency: Sharmaine Lobido By Ma. Isabela C. Agawin
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he used to think that she’d never vie for a position in the student government. Today, she’s the lone candidate for Central Student Government (CSG) Vice President. Sharmaine Mae Lobido, a Nursing junior, is confident that she can squeeze in the responsibilities that come with being a vice president, as her course entails proper time management. “I love serving. I am contented in serving the people without counting the cost,” she says. The drive for the win “I want to expand my range in leading and to empower student nurses. I can’t feel CSG projects. Maiba na sad. Ma-involve ang [Nursing] students sa CSG,” she stated. Arriving at a final decision took her a month and a consultation with a guidance counsellor. After being part of the Council of Nursing Students (CONUS) for three years, she ran as president of the council. Still, her instincts told her that she wanted to do more. Lobido plans to heighten the participation
and empowerment of students from all colleges, not just from the ones CSG officers are usually part of. She acknowledges that this feat is challenging but realistic. “If I could do it in high school, what more in college? Despite sa pressure sa Nursing, feel nako makaya gyud nako ni.” Student empowerment—by being aware of one’s rights and using it for the common good—is the focal point of her platform, as she emphasized in room-to-room campaigns. She stated that the CSG and the students not holding any position in the university should have a connection, as she observed that most students are hesitant to approach the student government. “Dapat next year, ang CSG will be more open sa concerns sa students. Kanang ang mga students dili ma-hadlok og sulod sa CSG.” She also believes that all students can contribute to change in the campus, hence, she encourages them to exercise their rights and be more involved in programs of the CSG. Beyond the candidacy She was a full scholar at XU High School. She
held positions in extra-curricular organizations such as the Kilusan ng Inang Wika, and was part of the yearbook staff. She is also a Gerry Roxas Scholarship awardee and a recipient of four Magis Awards. In college, she was involved in CONUS, the Ateneo School for Upcoming Leaders, and Alyansang Atenista. Had she taken a different path, she says her service will be given by volunteering or running for presidency in CONUS. Lobido evidently puts great importance on her religion. “To serve the people without counting the cost, tsada ang feeling. We are all instruments of God.” Every Sunday, she serves as a lector or choir member at the Saint Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral and drops by at the University Church before class.
solely for communication: from the student government to the information people to the college councils. She points out the importance of spreading announcements, such as those about the cancellation of classes, especially for students who live far from the campus. Moreover, Lobido wants to increase the year level representatives’ knowledge on their rights and responsibilities to improve governance in college councils. She envisions the representatives attending seminars on making bills and resolutions. “We try to make the resolutions transparent, para makit-an nila (students) ang change, para mafeel pud nila na dili lang sila taman sa papel,” she expounds on her platform on transparency.
RIGHT platform Her platform, CSG RIGHT, stands for: receptivity, information, grassroots, heightening constituent insights, and transparency. To further information dissemination, Lobido plans to make a resolution wherein the executive department will form a system
*** Lobido notes that being unopposed doesn’t equate to being complacent, as she sees being CSG Vice President as her way of paying back to the school. “It doesn’t mean na wala mi kalaban [or] we’re not eager to do more.”C
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NEWS FEATURES
Errata Crusader wishes to rectify the following mistakes found in its Intramurals issue: The
• Page 4, “New Reign: The Cheer-dance Competition” should have been “New Reign: Cheerdance Competition” • Under the subhead Broken wings, Second paragraph, 9th line, “658.1 points” should have been “65.81 points” • Page 14, the overall score of the College of Law has been interchanged with the overall score of the School of Medicine. • Law: 131 points, Med: 181 points • Page 16, in the article “Pythons reclaim title in women’s football” by Mary Isabel M. Meneses, first paragraph, first line, “Four years” should have been “six years” • In the article “Tigers overpower Bullriders in men’s softball” by Yoshabeth A. Valdehuesa in Page 20, College of Arts and Sciences batters Emil Cid and Joshua Fuentes were credited with driving in two home runs to highlight the Tigers’ ten-run first inning. • However, it was clarified that the two “booming homers” mentioned were not actually home runs, but rather two extra-base hits. The hits were delivered by Angelo Medal and Ryan Sanchez, not Cid and Fuentes as mentioned in the article. Both Cid and Fuentes were already on the bases when each of the hits was made. • Page 22, the name of the Karatedo Men Standout is spelled Alexandre Pacturan, not Alexander Pacturan. Crusader apologizes for these published errors and will publish an online version of the Intramurals issue with the necessary corrections made. The
Princess E. Tolentino Editor in Chief
The 20th Directorate: Expanding in Scope By Caroline Joy R. Go
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mbot wala ko kabalo unsa ilang ginabuhat; [mag-]pass ug laws for student welfare?” an Accountancy student replies when asked about what she knows of the Directorate and its functions. Some students are aren’t aware of the Directorate’s why’s and how’s. Some can’t even appreciate the committee’s efforts. What is the directorate all about? What were the resolutions passed in AY 2013-2014? The lowdown The Directorate is the highest legislative body of the CSG. It is composed of the college council presidents and the Convener of the Assembly of Extra-Curricular Organizations. The CSG vicepresident is the Directorate’s convener; he/she is responsible for facilitating the whole process of making and passing resolutions and laws for the benefit of the student body. As of January 10, the 20th Directorate, headed by current Vice President Harold Laborte, passed a total of 35 resolutions, 22 more than the average number of resolutions passed by previous Directorates. Sixteen resolutions were concerned with the CSG’s operations, seven were for student services and welfare, five for student organization affairs, four for academic affairs, and three for transparency.
Another concerns with forming an implementing body to enforce the guidelines on the use of Faber Hall—a room housing the workplaces of most co- and extra-curricular organizations of the university—since some student leaders were not keeping their assigned bay area clean. This resolution led to the lockdown and sanitation of Faber Hall; it had recently reopened. Finally, a resolution requested the Office of Mission and Ministry (OMM) to institutionalize a University Intramurals Committee. Starting next year, the university intramurals shall be handled by CSG for a more centralized organization of programs. Mr. Laborte also added that they were able to adopt resolutions made during the Xavier Congress 2013—where they opened and encouraged legislation to the various student leaders present. Three of which were: Resolution #24, requesting the Academic Council for the strict compliance of student’s waiting time policy for teachers; Resolution #25, a resolution requesting the Security Office to properly implement the university dress code; and Resolution #26, requesting the various academic departments in the university to secure the availability of subjects offered by the respective departments prior to enrolment.
Highlights Laborte, the only presidential candidate in this year’s elections, highlighted three from his term as convener. The ninth resolution for the year is one reminding the offices under the Student Services and Formation Units of XU to follow official office hours. As a result, the university’s Human Resources Office released a memorandum to all university units regarding the university’s official office hours.
On Performance Laborte shares, “Mas improved, mas [na-] strengthen ang Directorate this year because the principle of quantity and quality are both present. [Bisan ug] unsa kadaghan among gi-pass, we make sure na dili lang siya taman sa papers pero gina-lobby gyud namo.” The 19th Directorate passed 11 resolutions which concentrated more on the amendment of the constitution which took a longer process.
Though the 20th Directorate found some resolutions worth carrying over, Mr. Laborte insists on shifting their focus to more significant things. “Kung mag-focus ta sa constitution, madelay ang mga resolutions na mas important bitaw na matters. Kay usually tedious man gyud ang process sa [constitution].” When asked to rate their performance from one (lowest) to ten (highest), Laborte gave a nine. He did not give his team a perfect score because according to him, there were delays in schedule and priority bills, which until now remain unattended. Ensuring sustainability When asked how the directorate will ensure the sustainability of the resolutions passed, he answered, “Depende unsa ang priority sa next Directorate. Discretion na na sa next administration na i-monitor og tarong.” To help other aspiring student leaders, the Office of the vice-president put up a mini-library where all the resolutions and laws of the CSG are compiled. This will serve as a reference for his successors. *** At the end of the interview, Laborte shared his high hopes for the next Directorate. He expects that the 21st Directorate will not only sustain but also surpass the solidarity of those they will replace. He also encourages everyone to start striving for awareness for them to appreciate the Directorate’s endeavors. It is true that not everyone is fond of reading resolutions, but he still hopes that students will start seeing the sense behind their work. “I hope na ma-appreciate nila among effort.”C
The year of policy-making: a review on the Ubay-ubay–Laborte administration By Princess E. Tolentino
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their Office of Budget and Finance—a list of standardized minimum costs of supplies and materials they can use for proper budgeting and accounting of their projects.
Organizational development Internally, the highlight project this year is the Xavier Youth Agenda, an initiative to survey top student needs and concerns. “This was an intensive research that allowed us in CSG to filter what are the different advocacies that [we had] to prioritize,” shares Ubay-Ubay. “Kay sometimes man gud, CSG tends to do a lot of things but at the end of the day, the question is, ‘Which among these are relevant?’” “Ang product aning Xavier Youth Agenda is that all the policy-making bodies in the university that we [have a seat in], like the Academic Council, the Security Council, the different councils, we lobby to them the result of this agenda para in terms of policies, kabalo dayon ang admin unsa i-prioritize, unsa i-address, in terms of [the results of this research].” She reports, “Ang top concern gyud sa students is academics.” Another project of CSG under organizational development is the Standards Manual update of
Student welfare and services Aside from their traditional projects— first and second semester enrolment, General Assembly, Org Trip, Orientation Seminar, XU Festival Days, and Intramurals—CSG’s highlight projects for student welfare and services composed of the CSG Tindahan that came with calculator and Bible rentals, the Book Bazaar, Ignite: Learning Tutorials Program*, the Cocurricular Midsem Summit, and the Synergy Subsidy for Co-Curricular Orgs, among others. They expanded the power of legislation to ordinary students through the Xavier Congress. Representatives of different sectors of the student body—athletes, Kristohanong Katilingban sa Pagpakabana – Social Involvement Office volunteers, scholars, and year-level representatives, among others—were invited to pass resolutions with the Directorate. “This is a very impactful na project kay it made us solicit ideas from students themselves,” said Ubay-ubay. “Dili lang ang government gamake ug policies.” For Ubay-ubay, the product of the congress
ith Princess Ubay-ubay’s term coming to a close, let’s have a look into the highlight projects of the year that was, and evaluate this administration’s performance in terms of student governance and service.
was successful because, aside from the number of resolutions made and passed (ten from the first Xavier Congress and 15 from the second), some of these resolutions were improved, and a number of students’ concerns were actually petitioned to the Academic Council. “This year, our priority was complete attendance sa Academic Council. Ang Academic Council man gud kay ang highest seat sa CSG sa university [administration]. So mao na ang highest policy-making body na naa’y student representation, and so far, CSG had complete attendance in [the meetings of] that council.” The Magis Grant Aid Program was established as a financial assistance program to XU’s extracurricular and co-curricular organizations. With CSG’s approval, organizations that lacked funding for their projects could ask for financial assistance from CSG by handing in a project proposal and their cash flow report. As of the moment, the program has four beneficiaries, mostly from co-curricular organizations. CSG’s projects, according to Ubay-ubay, were not “one-shot” projects. Some of these were restructured to programs, like the Wiredon Program—their communications effort. This admin surged their transparency efforts on distributing brochures about their projects,
posting minutes of their meetings online, and reporting their accomplishments on stage, during major events. Community involvement For community or campus involvement, Ubay-ubay emphasized the Kagay-Anon Youth Leaders Academy (KAYLA), ONE-CDO Leadership Summit, the Electoral Forum, Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) Electoral Participation, Isang Libong Lagda, and Juanted Change. KAYLA was a four-month long high school leadership program for 60 high school student leaders from 27 high schools around CdeO. “Ang CSG sa Xavier kay different kaayo sa CSG sa other schools, like wala sila’y judiciary [branch], wala sila’y [legislative branch]—kana bitaw ilang CSG kay events-organizing body ra gyud. [...] Mao nang gusto namo i-benchmark ang CSG diri para ilang ma-apply sa ilang school. Karon, ang mga high school student governments kay gamake na sila sa ilang constitution, ginatudluan namo sila unsaon pag-make ug magna carta of students’ rights,” shares Ubay-ubay. A convention of about 150 student leaders from universities around the city was also among CSG’s community involvement. In ONE-CDO Leadership Summit, they discussed their practices
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www.thecrusaderpublication.com
EDITORIAL
T
The
Same old, same old
his year, the race for the two highest positions in the Central Student Government (CSG) only have one contender each. Déjà vu? The 2012 campus elections—with both the CSG presidential and vice presidential candidates also running unopposed—had a voter turnout of 37 percent. The following year, when two candidates were vying for each top post, the turnout slightly escalated to 39.49 percent. The pursuit for increasing student participation and diminishing apathy has been a long-standing struggle. Tightlycontested races for the CSG positions are slowly becoming a thing of the past. Truth is, any XU student can run for office in the student government provided that he/she complies with a few requirements: having a Quality Point Index not less than 2.0, and maintaining a clean record in Office of Student Affairs. Contrary to popular belief, a lengthy list of leadership experiences, seminars and accomplishments isn’t required. With 27-year-old Alyansang Atenista (AA) being the dominant political party in XU, students have been governed with the same ideals for so long; only a few dared to run independently. Because most races only have lone candidates, students start to question the impact of their votes, or whether the exercise of voting is even necessary. “It’s a sure win for them, anyway,” they might say. There are those who are still clueless about the people who will be leading their government next year. It is voter fatigue, a phenomenon clearly exhibited by dismal voting returns in recent years. Hopefully though, the lack of heat and
Crusader
Publishers Subscribing students of Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan Editors Princess E. Tolentino Editor in Chief John Kenneth E. Ching Associate Editor Rico M. Magallona Design Editor Sam D. Garcia Managing Editor Louren B. Aranas News Editor Marina M. Garcia Campus Features Editor (Interim) Caroline Joy R. Go Local Features Editor (Interim) Saharah Iman M. Alonto National Features Editor Kevin Paul P. Mabul Global Features Editor Nitzschia Cassiopiea Beroe A. Lozarita Sports Editor (Interim) Francis Ryan O. Avellana Layout Editor Paul Clinton B. Balase Photography Editor (Interim) Alexes June E. Baslot Freehand Editor Finance Officers Rochelle D. Barros Senior Finance Officer Yoshabeth A. Valdehuesa Junior Finance Officer Managers Angelica Franta F. Yanoyan Human Resource Manager Christian Loui S. Gamolo Office Manager Jennamae G. Espineli Circulation Manager Janrick Carl T. Romales Sr. Computer Systems Manager & Online Accounts Manager McHael D. Poncardas Jr Computer Systems Manager (Trainee) Ma Kristin Victoria Z. Abesamis Video Productions Manager Staff Writers Ma. Isabela C. Agawin (Trainee) Xian Patrick R. Arcayera (Trainee) Samantha Isabelle H. Bagayas (Trainee) Adrian Rey L. del Fierro (Trainee) Andrew Rey L. del Fierro (Trainee) Rezza Mae B. Tolinero (Trainee) Angelica Franta F. Yanoyan (Trainee)
tension in campus politics won’t encourage complacency and adherence to the status quo. Moreover, students already know what the CSG is doing, event-organizing being the most prominent example, but the “why” has yet to be figured out and understood. People are less likely to care unless they fully grasp the purposes of an organization—the “so what?” factor—and how it affects them. Self-interest will always come into play; after all, our primary purpose in XU is to study and get a degree. For instance, the CSG, through resolutions, serves as the bridge between the students and the University administration to improve the stay of the former in college. The students might feel the resolutions’ effects, but the rationale behind them is, at best, still unclear.
What does the school’s student government and elections tell about its students? As Jose P. Rizal said, “The school is the base of the society. Show us the school and we will show you the kind of people there are.” Ideally, change ripples to the community from the school. Perhaps having a national government such as ours might make students forget the importance of exercising one’s right to vote. Yet, hope still remains for a new crop of leaders to reverse this trend and jumpstart a tired electorate. Or better yet, it is time for the electorate to initiate change itself, if only they realize that the real power to do so comes from them. It’s easier said than done, but is doable nonetheless.C
Staff Artists John Niccolo A. Aquino (Trainee) Ben Clark B. Balase Rochelle D. Barros Marlon R. Boro (Trainee) Jenamae G. Espineli Christian Loui S. Gamolo Mary Isabel M. Meneses (Trainee) Jericho B. Montellano Sittie Naisha D. Munder (Trainee) Nikkei Antonio A. Que (Trainee) Jigo L. Racaza (Trainee) Keith Obed J. Ruiz Jan Michael A. Sy (Trainee) Venice Marie P. Villo Moderator Mrs. Ann Catherine Ticao-Acenas For contributions, please address your articles and/or comments to The Crusader Publication office, Rm. 302, Student Center Bldg., Xavier University 9000, Cagayan de Oro City Circulation: 5,000 copies
Vol. 40 No. 5 | February 2014 Layout by Rico M. Magallona, Keith Obed J. Ruiz. Jericho Montellano
OPINION
A flawed democracy T
he Philippines is a republic. This republic has a flawed democracy. Think about it, the PDAF scam is, in some respects, the cherry on the top of the pile full of political scandals our country has racked up through the years. It reeks of deceit and of corruption. It stinks so bad that even covering up the nostrils wouldn’t exactly work. We have to deal with a lot of unfulfilled promises, and wasted potential. We have to deal with underqualified senators, and family dynasties. We have dwelled in our imperfect politics so much that, lost under layers of cynicism, it can be overcome. We have long forgotten what it feels like to have a voice and to have trustworthy people leading us. The beauty of democracy lies within those that run it. In a perfect world, we envision one where people engage in mentally-stimulating dialogue about how to make the community a better place. We dream of our leaders being
Sky’s the Langit John Kenneth E. Ching
transparent, honest, and most of all, genuine in their pursuit of the common good. Politics isn’t merely lip service and instead of it being a display of the eloquent, the petty entitlement (just ask the Enrile’s and the Binay’s), it is a place for honest people to make laws for the benefit of other people. Bureaucracy helps smoothen complex government processes—such as procuring the necessary budget—or something as simple as applying for an NSO birth certificate, and not the mangled, inefficient mess we see in various government offices. But, snap, we have realized that this perfect world doesn’t exist. Going down to the campus level, this same level of cynicism is being displayed by many of the students, yet for different reasons. In XU, the general disinterest stems to the fact that selfinterest prevails. Declining voter turnouts over the years attest to that happening.
Yet, some fail to see the point that in participating in campus elections, they are unwittingly helping improve the quality of university life. Who knows, maybe the leader you’re voting for can help you reach out to the administration in calling for better student services. Maybe one day, the leader you choose will help you in your academics by relaying the demand for better teaching. Yes, voting in the elections may cost you your valuable time, but think of it as an investment, a short-term sacrifice for a long-term benefit. Yes, you might say that most of the races are have already been decided and/or some of the candidates don’t exactly deserve to win. However, you always can choose the more desirable candidate, or even “None”. I implore you to vote, not for the candidates’ sakes but for your own. XU is better off that way.C
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NEWS
Juan Manuel Mandac, 18... “Pero mao lagi, nakauban man siya sa other group,” he shared. Searching and waiting “Nabalaka nako sa Tuesday kay wala siya … Wala nako katulog,” his father recalled looking for his son through his cousins and friends in the neighborhood. At this time, two of the victim’s friends who were with him before he disappeared didn’t reveal themselves as witnesses yet. He could not be contacted through his mobile phone either. For two days, he roamed around the city and dropped by all the police precincts but to no avail. At 5 PM, his neighbor informed him that a boy who’s the same age as his son was found. “Nag-decompose na iyang body kay wala man nakita within 48 hours. I identified him through his short pants, wala na’y t-shirt and tsinelas,” his father narrated what greeted him in the morgue. Since the body was already in an initial state of decay, the victim was only recognized through his birthmark. After a long pause, his father sighed, “Siya. Siya gyud.” Call for justice His closest friends saw him as a brother who was always ready to help them. Jasper Alon, a close friend of Mandac, shared, “Every time naa
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koy problema, gamay or dako, naa siya pirmi. Siya ang klase na amigo na hinding hindi ka iiwan sa ere … It’s hard for us to accept na nawad-an mi’g amigo nga gi-turing namo tanan as utol.” On February 8, his friends staged a mini concert at the Magis Atrium and echoed their call for justice. The concert did not only serve as a tribute to ‘Dak’ or ‘Wawang’, as he is fondly called by his peers, but also as a fundraising event to help shoulder the funeral expenses. His friends, who initiated the event, were able to raise Php 10,000.00 on the second day and directed the funds to his father. A mass was also offered for Mandac, who is an alumnus of XU High School, on February 12 at the University Church. Friends and strangers alike have FOR JUSTICE. Friends of the late XU freshman Manuel Mandac staged a mini concert at the Magis Atrium and echoed their call for justice, February 8. expressed solidarity in finding K. Cuerqius justice for him. A Facebook page, ‘Justice for Manuel Mandac’, was made. investigation, although speculations have been noted. “We want to gather more [evidence].” He As of press time, the motive behind the floating around. added that he could safely state that their clues are killing has yet to be confirmed through an “We’re looking for the exact angle,” the father leading them to the right path.C
NEWS FEATURES
One-party races...
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Current CSG President and once-AA candidate Princess Ubay-ubay points out that few students currently possess the political will necessary to engage in CSG, and council leadership. “We have a lot of leaders but these leaders are not really leaders who develop the political will to be in the student government. And different man gyud na siya, because to be in CSG doesn’t involve leadership alone, eh. You should have the political interest to be in CSG.” She too speculates that the current political environment in the nation contributes to the malaise prevalent during campus elections. “[...] Kana bitaw’ng murag politics nowadays is so negative to people’s minds. Pero I think reality pud siya. Kung unsa’y gakahitabo sa outside kay murag ang mentality sa students kay inana gihapon [ang gakahitabo] inside ba.” Neri points out the lack of proper political education—through the Political Science subject—in the University as a factor. This might be ironic as every XU student takes the subject. Ideally, it must serve to impart a comprehensive understanding of the Philippine political system as well as guiding them towards making informed electoral choices, through political theories. He recognizes the potential of the subject to increase the political will of the students. In his blog post, he argues, “This then presents a creative platform in which PolSci teachers can integrate policy-making (local or campus) as one concrete application of their learning in political science. This is one venue where the student body in general (the voters) can appreciate the importance of collective decision-making and how it affects their daily lives.” Forming policy-makers Aside from the PolSci classes, Neri
feels that formation units in the University focus on developing the technical skills needed for student leaders in running their organizations. However, for him, students are not indoctrinated enough in terms of policymaking. “So in the administration level, the whole XU student leadership formation apparatus ought to put special attention to the development of a specialized skill-based leadership formation program on public and school policy crafting and engagement,” he suggests in his post. “It would be an interesting new field considering that the school consistently provides so many skill and leadership development programs raging [sic] from music to dancing.” *** All is not lost, however. Given the right circumstance, students, in future elections, may experience choosing among the frontrunners of the two major positions, just like last year, when we were treated to differing views on how best to run the CSG as well as the entire XU student community by Ubay-ubay and former opponent Abdul Hakeem Lomondot, who serves as chief commissioner of XU CSGStudents’ Rights and Welfare Commission. Neri is hopeful for more of these. “It politicizes students. It forces students to think. It creates an environment where students can discern and begin to ask questions [...] There’s always formative value ani na experiences.” As XU continues on its mission to form men and women for others, there lies the hope that campus elections may amplify the serving spirit of the students through active policy-making. “If you see a government that is working well, you see a government that is very transparent, a party that is very active sa policy… sa imong formative years, madala na sa paggawas nimo.”C
No Permit, No Exam... we’re trying to propose is for the finals week that students could still take the exams, even without tuition payment yet.” As proposed alternatives for the policy, students would be able to take their exams during finals week, despite their inability to pay their school fees, but credentials and items necessary for transfer are withheld until undue balance is paid. Additionally, it was suggested that these students won’t be able to view their grades or enroll the next semester. Current Efforts Online and paper surveys have been disseminated to the students to get their opinions on the policy. In a survey conducted by the CSG to gauge the awareness of the students of the said policy and its effects on them, the results from the 121 respondents indicated that 50% of the students admitted to having negative effects on their academic performance from the NPNE policy. While 97 percent of the students would support the abolition of the NPNE policy, only 31 percent knew of a Philippine government legislation or order pertaining to the NPNE policy that could make its abolition possible, or at least help delay the payment of tuition fees, if needed. The ongoing online survey, showed the students’ unawareness of their own rights to education and the harm of the NPNE policy. As of February 7, there have only been 150 responses—out of the 450 responses needed to strengthen the CSG’s stand to the abolition of the policy. Director of the CSG Office of Research and Constituent Insights Jahre Tanedo explains that if the survey doesn’t achieve the 450 responses it needs, it is automatically assumed that the abolition of the NPNE policy is not needed in the University, as its necessity is in question.
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The CSG has also linked with student leaders from the other Ateneo universities for assistance in their advocacy. “What we’re waiting for, the more important part, is the data from the other Ateneo schools since we would want to substantiate our stand,” Ubay-ubay explains. “We’re trying to get what their payment scheme is, what is, if there are, different methods on how the students pay their balances.” She adds, “But as of now, we are trying to get the support of Buklod Atenista. So we’re keeping in touch with them for us to get the data that we need from their schools.” Ateneo de Davao University and XU are the only Ateneo schools left that has retained the NPNE policy. Currently, the call for the abolition of NPNE is in the early stages, with CSG still intent on data gathering. If the surveys get a positive response, a meeting with the administration would be done as soon as possible, with next year being the targeted implementation date. The council proposed to the Academic Council for their recommendation, a crucial step for them to secure the approval of the President’s council.C
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NEWS
7 QITC Focuses on Mobile Technology th
By Kevin Paul P. Mabul
F
ebruary 7, 2014—the Quantum Information Technology Convention (QITC) launched its seventh three-day conference at Marco Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City. Carrying the theme, ‘Mobile Technology: Innovating the World Right on Our Hands’, QITC, according to their website, “aims to promote and disseminate the advanced drift and standards of technology.” The seminars not only tackled topics on the technicalities and monetization of mobile applications, but also put emphasis on how mobile development has the potential to improve everyone’s daily lives by making people “more efficient” through innovative solutions. With the focus being mobile development, this year’s speakers included co-founder and developer at Mochibits Howard Go, Senior Developer at Readify Jon Limjap, Project Manager at Aspen Labs LLC Ed Henderson, Creative Director at Aestrea
Software Development and XU alumna Josan Astrid Dometita, Senior Developer at Capitol University Jay Ginete, and BSIT-3 and Supreme Court Council President at MUST Raven Duran. Xavier Computer Enthusiasts League Chairman Czar Zambrano says, “Very fulfilling kaayo ang QITC this year since we were able to invite new participants from other schools and companies. Thankful pud kaayo mi kay we were blessed with inspiring speakers and participative delegates, who came from different schools.” Without the inclusion of walk-in participants, the convention’s participants comprised of 76 delegates from Xavier University, 31 from RC-Al Khwarizmi International College, and one delegate each from Cagayan de Oro College, Mindanao State University Marawi, Bukidnon State University, Don Carlos Polytechnic College, and Baizhetech IT Solutions.C
APPLAUSE. Speakers of the 7th Quantum Information Technology Convention (left to right) Howard Go, Ed Henderson, Josan Dometita, Jay Ginete, Raven Duran, and Jon Limjap pose for a picture on stage at the end of the event. J. Balatero
FEATURES
The year of policy-making... as student governments and they benchmark off each other. “ONE-CDO has been existing for eight years na. […] So until now kay ongoing pa gihapon among mga meetings and discussions with the universities.” In relation to the May 2013 local elections, the Electoral Forum that presented the two top contenders for the mayoral race was also one of CSG’s initiatives. Along with that, they also gathered 100 volunteers serving as poll watchers for PPCRV Election Watch. In cooperation with Ateneo de Zamboanga University, Isang Libong Lagda was a signature campaign to support the Zamboanga peace process after the September standoff that paralyzed the city. They gathered around 1800 signatures. Juanted Change, on the other hand is an ongoing program distributing 150 student volunteers to different campaigns—SAYGO (Segregate your trash as you go), Basura Ko Kalambuan Mo, Anti-Vandalism, and food sanitation of the Magis Canteen. CSG satisfaction ratings The Crusader conducted a survey from February 7-9, 2014 which was participated by 100 students. Twenty-three of which are members of co-curricular organizations, 12 from extra-curricular organizations, four from SACDEV programs, 21 from student councils, and 40 from students without any major organizational affiliation. The survey respondents rated this year’s CSG administration from one (lowest score) to ten (highest) according to four criteria: transparency, effectiveness, impact, and student services. Overall, the total average is 4.9, out of 10, with individual scoring as follows: Transparency - 4.4/10 How aware was the student body of CSG’s funds-spending, projects, and activities throughout the year? Were their goals clear to them? “I don’t even know how much funds the CSG has for their projects,” opined a student leader from the School of Business Management Student Council (SBMSC), who also commented on the CSG’s unliquidated projects. “Wala mi kabalo unsa’y nahimo o wala nahimo sa CSG this school year,” comments a student without any major organizational affiliation. Another student leader from the Council of Nursing students suggests, “They should post the
budget where it is easy to check, such as [near] the gate.” In the pursuit of online transparency in finances and meetings, CSG carried out the Transparency Check Program, but Ubay-ubay reveals that it isn’t very successful. “Sa among na-notice, kung mag-post mi ug minutes, [or] finances report online kay murag gamay ra kay among reach sa [among Facebook page]. Bisag amo siyang gina-post kay wala kaayo students gatry ug see, so mao nang ironic kaayo kung mag-ingon ang students nga dili transparent [ang CSG]. Amo man gina-post, it’s just that dili nila gina-access. Lisod iyang feasibility.” Effectiveness - 5.2/10 Survey respondents gave varying opinions on this CSG admin’s effectiveness. A respondent from a co-curricular organization commented, “Good information dissemination in school announcements,” but a student leader from the Teachers Guild commented on the implementation of CSG’s projects. “I’ve been waiting to hear from CSG Connect. Na-lost na, uy?” Coincidently, three years ago, CSG also had a communications arm then called Amplify, which, in time also got lost in transition. When it came to events, a respondent from SBMSC commented on CSG’s setbacks, “Marketing for their projects is not effective, thus only a few people would attend the event.” “When you organize an event, please start on time,” a respondent form Ateneo Camera Club adds. According to Ubay-ubay, “In terms of communication, I think this year kay nag improve ang CSG, but I’m not sure if enough ba na kay naa gihapon times na galisod mi in terms of gathering participants. Ambot lang nganong lisod gyud kaayo maerase ang student apathy here in XU. I think gakanorm na bitaw siya. […] It’s very sad. Kanang no matter how you try to convince them to participate in this project, kay sometimes dili [gyud sila].” “Pero naa pu’y times na hyped up kaayo ang students’ interest, like kung magpa-open volunteer mi sa CSG, at the first day pa lang kay complete na ang list of volunteers. Pero kani na volunteers kay dili sad mutunga ug meetings.” Impact - 4.9/10 A respondent with no organizational affiliations shared: “The administration was good, but for me, a freshman, I haven’t really felt the presence of the
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CSG administration [in] my college life.” In addition, another freshman said, “According lang sa ako experience so far, Intrams lang and Elections nako sila ma-feel na ga-exist.” Visibility is also the concern of a student leader from the Aggies Student Council, “Wala man sila’y projects or activity nga dili annual. Kung naa man, dili siya visible sa amo.” A student without any organizational association, and a student leader from the United Arts and Sciences Student Council suggested that CSG should conduct more activities that raise student participation and involvement. Echoing this, a respondent from Ateneo Philosophy Club argues, “If they want to have an impact on the student populace, they should care not for things such as transparency and politics, but for what really matters to the students like having individual talents and aiding their academic needs.” A respondent from SBMSC points out, “CSG must also open opportunities to students by announcing to them the various leadership congresses […] and not just keeping the opportunities for themselves.” Student Services - 5.1/10 Was the CSG office generally available to assist students with regular concerns? A respondent from the Xavier English Language and Literature Organization suggests that CSG officers should be friendlier, “There are some officers who are not approachable.” Nonetheless, Ubay-ubay expressed her satisfaction with CSG’s student services. “Happy ko sa among admin this year kay wala gyud day na dili gaka taohan ang CSG. Wala’y day na ga-close mi for student services like calcu, bible [rentals]. Sometimes kay dili man gud nato na gina-appreciate, […] but kanang regularity lang bitaw of office people, dako na na na achievement for us. “The basic needs of the constituents should be met gyud in the most basic way, like magtambay sa office para mataohan lang.” Challenges in the way Aside from what the CSG president termed as “admin intervention”, or the unannounced appointing of different sectors of the university administration to organize events that disrupt their timeline, she says that the biggest setback for this year’s CSG was the fact that there was no proper
transition from last year, pointing out the immense conflict between the former CSG president and former vice-president. “For CSG this year, kanang honestly gyud kay mura mi’g nag-start from scratch. […] Ako, naa ko’y files given by the past admin pero not enough, bitaw. Transition doesn’t stop in just sending files. Transition should be about mentoring, about coaching the next leaders, and mao na’ng murag wala namo na-feel.” Ubay-ubay proudly shares that this year’s admin is free from any destructive internal conflicts.
*** Ubay-ubay muses, “As a president, I don’t have regrets. My admin wasn’t perfect, but in all the challenges that we had, I know that we tried our best. My term’s about to end, but I am a fulfilled president.” If anything, the outgoing administration’s legacy was bridging the student body and university administration through representation and policymaking. “Maka-ingon gyud ko na CSG this year was strong in terms of policies. And that is one thing a Central Student Government should do, because we are a student government so in terms of lobbying student concerns, majority of what we plan to lobby at the start of the year were actually lobbied. […] It was [the] policies [made and enacted] that made me say that our admin [was] successful,” expressed Ubay-ubay. Whether or not the next CSG chooses to focus on proper implementation of the policies made this year, continuing existing projects and programs or creating new ones, or responding to the student body’s ratings on transparency, effectiveness, impact, and/or student services, the future begs the question of sustainability. When asked what she wished for the next CSG admin, she answered: “…to [re-establish] the identity of the student government. We started it this year—that the student government should be the student representatives, the policy-making body and not an event-organizing body of the university.” Will the next CSG admin continue the efforts of the outgoing one, or will it also start from scratch and create its own new projects and programs? That’s up to them.C
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NEWS
CDO hosts national film festival By Angelica Franta F. Yanoyan
T
he National Committee on Cinema of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), led by Dr. Miguel Rapatan, and XCCA director Hobart Savior organized “Cinema Rehiyon 6: Filming the Frontiers,” which runs from February 18 to 22 in Cagayan de Oro as part of the month-long celebration of the Philippine Arts Festival (PAF). Cinema Rehiyon 6 highlights films that positively highlight transforming lives through educating the community on environmental protection and preservation, rebuilding lives and communities, and cultural solidarity. The festival, one of the seven flagship projects for the PAF, proposes to teach the viewers about local culture and works from the regions that thrive outside the mainstream cinema. It is also their objective to engross film enthusiasts in a forums with the filmmakers and artists. Cinema Rehiyon encourages the use of the vernacular in films, aiming to aid in the preservation of local culture. “Wa Ko Kakita,” Best Student Short Film in the recently-concluded 6th Cinemagis Digital Short Film Festival, leads the 11-film strong contingent from the said festival. In addition, various programs on filmmaking and socio-cultural responsibilities are curated for the span of the festival. Cinetalakayan is a forum about the aforementioned topics, and Cinebarangay screens inspirational films and animated flicks from the regions to the ‘Sendong’ survivors.C
CLOSE TO HOME. As part of the Philippine Arts Festival, National Commission for Culture and the Arts and Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts co-organized a national film festival promoting local artists and independent films. J.M. Sy
Lampoon
a r o C abida: The Fall of a Generation
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ora, today is your last day on Earth. I want you to do something for me.” I heard a strange, deep-toned voice. God spoke to me as I was sitting in class on a Monday morning. Although I took it as a compliment that He actually talked to me as if I was some Biblical character, panic gripped my heart with what He said. I was going to die. Questions flooded my head thereafter. Was I going to heaven? Who will take care of my pet hedgehog? How will I say goodbye to my loved ones? Could I spend my last day in a beautiful beach? The blue waters always had this special appeal to my carefree spirit. But there was only the Opol beaches to flee to. I had 24 hours left and going to El Nido or at least, Camiguin, seemed impractical. Thinking of spending my last day in a beach with dogs and humans who actually have the gall to excrete their wastes underwater was very depressing. Still, thinking of where to spend my last day was impossible to do in this state. God had a huge task for me: He wanted me to make Filipinos smarter within a span of 24 hours. “The Filipinos have become so disappointing lately. Thousands swore to kill for a certain Vhong Navarro. Many more wished for the death of a girl named Deniece Cornejo. Cora, I want you to get to the bottom of this. I need you to fix your society.” “Good Lord, your humor is beyond my measly existence! How do you expect me to do that when even my mother is a huge fan of Kris Aquino? It’s not that easy, God.” I cried to myself. His words held some water though when I found
out that He gave me superpowers. I could implant specific thoughts to anyone who looked into my eyes. I could control people’s minds. To test my newfound gift, I went to the front of my class and stopped three reporters from plainly reading whatever was on their slides. I even had to wake up my part-time teacher who was dozing off at the back of the classroom. I looked at all of them in the eyes. One by one, they all met my gaze. In my head, I was practically screaming “Smarten up! There are problems far more important than Vhong Navarro’s scandal! For all we know, this could be another ploy by the government for us to divert our attention from Janet Napoles’ sorry face! Think of the garbage that has taken constant residence in our streets lately. Think of the many victims of the Maguindanao Massacre who continue to rot in the name of injustice!” My classmates nodded in approval. That was one of the best moments of my life. For the first time, majority of the people I was with in XU, at a particular point in time, was more enlightened than usual. Since God asked me to take the nation by storm, the only way I could think of was to go to the nearest news station. Their executives need to only meet my eyes for me to manipulate them and escalate my concern to their head office in Manila. I wanted a live national telecast of my face at 12 noon.
“The people will see me. The people will look at me in the eyes. So long as there are people who think like me, I will not die in vain.” When I was near the station, however, I encountered an unexpected nemesis. He was
an old man who seemed to have experienced everything that this good Earth has to offer— except for good fashion sense. He had a particular aura to him that reminded me of dirty politics, and power. He looked wealthy but I picked up the impression that he was poor in values and character. I looked at him in the eyes but I couldn’t control his mind, for some reason.
“Dear, you are quite naïve,” he told me. “In a place that has been corrupted for generations, the only thing you’re supposed to do is stick to the status quo.” He laughed hysterically and I could swear that I heard the devil laugh with him. All of a sudden, his assistants came after him. I realized that he was actually the topmost executive of the news station in front of us. They then asked him about upcoming new shows and his plans for the future. His reply was plain yet menacing, “Anything that can pollute their minds further.” He brushed me off and entered the building. I became emotional thinking that I would die a failure. I wallowed in despair as I realized that my superpower had its limits. More importantly, my heart ached for what is looming ahead of Filipinos. Just when I was about to cry, I heard the voice again. “Cora, now is not your time. Darkness is growing, and the little glow you have in you could be your country’s only hope.” I jolted back to reality to see my three classmates finish their monotonous report.C
Dear Ate Charot, Tawaga nalang ko sa pangalang wandas, wandas da fox say, lolers. Bitaw ate, nakoy gusto i-open up, about my love life, ate. Ding ding ding ding ding? Jokens. Bitaw ate, ako uyab ba chixboy kayo. Taga uli hilot ang peg. Unsaon mani nako ate nga di naxa mangabit? Gikapoy nako ate, mas kapoy pa sa manglaba. Mas kapoy pa sa pangupya. Mas kapoy pa sa badutchi nga nag Crayola. Please help. Dear Wandas, Nako! Kanang mga chixboy anad na kau ko ana. Pero usa ray sumpa ana day. Bundakan ug yars. Ipakaon ni Galema, jokens. Nako alang hiktan nimu day nga wala namay doldol tree. Pero ako ana day, ingana ug batasan ang ekal ako jud nang rapon, ay bulagan. As the saying says, there are many fish and mananagat ka? Basta day pangeta og someone deserving. Move on roll on. Babush! Be updated on our latest stories, read, laugh, cry, die @atecharot4eva on Facebook.
Ehem-ehem. Larga bola! Atong nang sugdan ang mga pagilok sa atong mga kapalaran. Aquarius (From the ugat word: Aquarium – tangkal sa isda.) Ayaw palabig dula anang Flappy Bird brad, basin ikaw ma-stress ug kalitlang mahighblood. Lucky Day: Day Morvie Lucky Color: Nyebe Blue
Aries (Taas ang kamay! You’re under Aries!) Likayi najud ang pagvandal-vandal sa elevator. Tan-awa karon, ang makagamit nalang kay instructor. Lucky Day: Hoy besh! Lucky Color: Redjoice Sham Shampu
Cancer (Hahay, wala jud ko’y nadagit adtongBalentayms.) Since humana ang balentayms, ayaw kaguolnawala kay na-date. Mao ra japun dili kamaka-relate. Lucky Day: Monday Moore Lucky Color: Graynamos
Capricorn (Klasmeyt sa kagid, alipunga ug koricorn.) Ang pagkatawa tambal sa problema. Ang pag katawa na walay hinungdan, pacheck-up na, problema na kana amega. Lucky Day: Beerness Lucky Color: Blackitom
Gemini (Meet my brader nga murag hipster.) Happy ka karon na day. Magkita mo sa imongsoulmate ging. Ay charing! Mura syag kanding! Lucky Day: Sabadue Lucky Color: Pinkish White Glue
Leo (Roar! Aw sayop! Meowwmeoww.) Malipay ka this day. Tagaan ka ni mommy ug money para naa kay pang date sa imu bheybe. Lucky Day: Everyday pero dili tagaadlaw Lucky Color: Reddy set Blue!
Libra (AbraKalibra, Sis Bomba!) Kung muadto ka sa library, pagstudy. Dili kay mag sleeping beauty. Lucky Day: Final Daystination Lucky Color: Invinsible white
Pisces (Oh! Palit namo butete, tamban ug budlisan.) Oh dear, today you’re so gorgeous. Ayaw lang pag in-O.A para ang beauty dili ma-reduce. Chos! Lucky Day: Chosday Lucky Color: White tulog
Taurus (Kabaw ni tatay nga sigeg palanay) Kung plano nimo ang pagsigeg lakwatsa, ayaw sa, higala. Ang finals duol na, basin mangamote ka. Lucky Day: Thirstday Lucky Color: Maroonong
Virgo (My throat will set me free. Darna!) Magkatawaha ka sa kaguol kay bulagan ka sa imong uyab. Sagdi lang, nawong man pud adto porya-buyag. Lucky Day: Basin ugma Lucky Color: YOLO
Sagittarius (Hoy scorpio pwede ko mangutang sa imo?) Nag 2014 nalang higala, utang gihapon imong tirada. Likayi sa ang pagpamaylo sa imong mga kaila, basin utang nimu managhan ug ikaw dayon ma kuyapan Lucky Day: Day Kabayad Lucky Color: Lemon C2
To join: photocopy this Kurisearch with your answers and submit your entry to TheCrusader Publication office at StC 302 with your name and contact number. Lucky participants will recieve limited edition collectibles. Congrats sa mga winners sa last Kurisearch contest! Hurrah! Dawata ang house and lot dari sa office, bitbiton jud ni nimu! Joke lang best! Get your prizes at Publication Office StC 302. And the winners are... Tantananan! : Cherry Shein I. Eng, and Diane Rose L. Nanolan!!! Congrats!!!
Crusader
The
Scorpio (Pwidi piro dipindi.) Nay mu bisita sa imu karon adlawa. Ayaw jud pagpakita kay ang imong bisita kay ang imong palautang na higala. Lucky Day: Miyercooles Lucky Color: LeBrown James