DAWN NOVEMBER - ISSUE 1, VOLUME 74
THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF THE EAST
Graduates gathered at the UE theater during commencement ceremony.
F2F CLASSES IN ALL COLLEGE COURSES TO START SY '22-'23
University President Ester Garcia bared that the implementation of face-to-face classes in all college programs will only be possible in the first semester of the academic year 2022-2023. She revealed that only Engineering, Tourism, Hospitality Management, and Dentistry degree programs will return to in-person set up by January 2022.
In an exclusive interview with the DAWN, Garcia said that the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) releases "specific guidelines" for each course. "My estimate is that face-toface classes, for programs other than Dentistry, Engineering, and Hospitality Management/ Tourism, will not start till the first semester, School Year 202223," Garcia reiterated.
The University of the East (UE) President stressed that the University is now ready to conduct face-to-face classes for the Dentistry degree program. Garcia, however, said that the UE administration still waits for the go-signal of CHED. She further stated that the University's preparation for inperson classes for Engineering, Tourism, and Hospitality Management courses is underway.
Garcia maintained that the shift to in-person learning set up will be "limited only to those that absolutely need face-to-face classes." "We expect that we will be implementing blended learning, meaning a mix of online and faceto-face," she stated. The President also encouraged students and faculty members to be ready by the second semester of the A.Y. 2021-2022.
NO F2F GRADUATION IN MARCH USC, OECO SPEARHEAD COVID-19 VACCINATION PROGRAM –GARCIA
No face-to-face graduation will be held at the University of the East (UE) in March of 2022, according to UE President Ester Garcia. In an online interview with Garcia, she revealed that the graduation ceremonies will still be held virtually. “The next graduation ceremonies in March will be virtual,” the University President told the DAWN. Garcia also added that the University has no plans currently regarding face-toface graduation. On June 13, Garcia said that she is hopeful that there will be face-to-face graduation by
the end of this school year. “I am hoping (for a face-toface graduation) by the end of next school year,” she said. The UE President also said that this will only be possible “when it is safe to do so as approved by the government.” The University shifted from in-person to virtual graduation after the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) urged higher education institutions (HEIs) to conduct alternative graduation ceremonies. UE has already conducted two virtual commencement rites: in November 2020 and in May 2021.
The University of the East (UE) Warriors were able to receive their first dose of COVID-19 vaccines on Nov. 18 through the ‘Bakuna Bus’ initiative. The University Student Council (USC) coordinated with the Office of Extension and Community Outreach (OECO) to conduct the vaccination program. The initiative was also made possible through the partnership with the Philippine Red Cross (PRC)-Manila Chapter. The vaccination program was open to all students, reviewees, employees, and alumni of both Manila and Caloocan campuses. AstraZeneca vaccines were reportedly administered to those
who registered in the COVID-19 vaccination program. Moreover, the schedule for the inoculation of the vaccine’s second dose will be on January 13, 2022. USC President Raymond Cayabyab, meanwhile, expressed his gratitude to the people behind the success of the initiative. “I would like to personally thank Director Candelaria and Director Espiritu for supporting this initiative and for guiding us. Also, big thanks to PRCManila for such an amazing project towards achieving herd immunity in the society,” he reiterated.
NEWS UE to prioritize vaccination UE to prioritize vaccination of of Engineering, Tourism, Engineering, Tourism, HM students HM students By Terenz Dave L. Silverio
By Terenz Dave L. Silverio
With the possible shift to in-person classes by January 2022, the University of the East (UE) would prioritize the vaccination of Engineering, Tourism, and Hospitality Management students. UE President Ester Garcia verified this in a meeting with Central Student Council (CSC) chief Saida Manap. “Ang hinihingi ko ngayon Engineering and then ‘yung Tourism, and Hospitality Management,” Garcia said. “Para i-prioritize sila kung sakaling mayroong mabilis na source ng vaccine, sila na ang mauna,” the UE President added. Garcia shared that the Lucio Tan (LT) Group also reached her, offering free vaccine shots for the students.
The UE President also bared that the University targets to start in-person classes for the three degree programs, along with Dentistry. Asked about who will be held accountable if students contract the virus, Garcia stated that they already raised this concern to the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF). The pandemic task force, however, has yet to provide an answer regarding this matter. It can be recalled that the IATF has approved the implementation of faceto-face classes in all degree programs. Meanwhile, a high vaccination rate among students and faculty members is one of the three conditions to conduct in-person classes.
With the possible shift to inperson classes by January 2022, the University of the East (UE) would prioritize the vaccination of Engineering, Tourism, and Hospitality Management students. UE President Ester Garcia verified this in a meeting with Central Student Council (CSC) chief Saida Manap. “Ang hinihingi ko ngayon Engineering and then ‘yung Tourism, and Hospitality Management,” Garcia said. “Para i-prioritize sila kung sakaling mayroong mabilis na source ng vaccine, sila na ang mauna,” the UE President added. Garcia shared that the Lucio Tan (LT) Group also reached her, offering free vaccine shots for the students.
The UE President also bared that the University targets to start inperson classes for the three degree programs, along with Dentistry. Asked about who will be held accountable if students contract the virus, Garcia stated that they already raised this concern to the InterAgency Task Force (IATF). The pandemic task force, however, has yet to provide an answer regarding this matter. It can be recalled that the IATF has approved the implementation of face-to-face classes in all degree programs. Meanwhile, a high vaccination rate among students and faculty members is one of the three conditions to conduct in-person classes.
UE: No F2F classes in SHS yet
Pubmat by Cyndh Jezzrill Marc C. Viloria
Face-to-face classes in Senior High School are still not being planned by the University, UE President Ester Garcia disclosed. According to Garcia, they are still waiting for the decision of the Department of Education (DepEd). In an exclusive interview with the DAWN, Garcia said that DepEd has only planned to conduct pilot runs
for the said department. "We just have to follow all the rules and right now DepEd has not issued any except for pilot runs," the President said. It can be recalled that DepEd only included 120 schools for their pilot limited face-to-face classes: 100 public and 20 private schools in minimal-risk COVID-19 areas.
COVID-19 updates in the Philippines from November 8, 2022, to November 22, 2022 By Karen Louise C. Delos Angeles & Marie Gold Vivien M. Totanes
November 8, 2021 The Department of Health (DOH) confirmed that the Philippines recorded the first case of B.1.617.1, also known as the Kappa variant, on Monday, Nov. 8. DOH Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire explained that the B.1.617.1 variant, which was first detected in India in October 2020, is a "variant under monitoring" by the World Health Organization (WHO). “It is a variant of interest but as of September 20, 2021, it was declassified and is currently designated by the WHO as a variant under monitoring,” Vergeire said in a virtual forum. The B.1.617.1 is one of the three sub-lineages of the Sars-coV-2 B.1.617 lineage and contains the T278K mutation. The Philippines’ first case of the Kappa variant was detected on a 32-year-old male from Floridablanca, Pampanga. His samples were obtained on June 2, 2021, and he has now recovered since. Vergeire stated that it was a local case but revealed that further investigation is already underway concerning the B.1.617.1 variant. The health undersecretary claimed that "there is strict monitoring of this case and the community." Meanwhile, the Delta variant remains the most commonly reported case in the country, making up 34.59% of the total samples acquired. The Philippines logs a total of 2,087 new cases bringing the total active
cases in the country to 32,077. November 9, 2021 Philippines’ recovery index ranking improved. According to Nikkei, the Covid-19 infection management of the Philippines has gotten better. “In the infection management category, we are seeing significant improvement. The Philippines gets a score of 16 for this category in this latest ranking compared to only 6 points last month,” according to Nikkei Asia’s Grace Li in an interview with CNN. In its last edition prior to this, the Philippines landed as the 121st place way back in September. This month, the country’s ranking jumped 18 places up at 103. The jump may have been a result of the surge of vaccination in the country. The total active cases in the country gradually lowered as 2,941 recovery cases were logged. Meanwhile, a total of 1,409 daily active cases were added bringing the tally to 30,544, November 10, 2021 The DOH recorded 2,646 new COVID-19 cases, putting the country's total caseload to 2,809,311. The health department revealed that only 29,138 are active cases, the lowest data in the last eight months. After 99 additional people died, the death toll rose to 44,665, or 1.59% of the infection count. Meanwhile, 4,029 more people recovered, bringing the overall number of recoveries to 2,735,508, or 97.4% of the entire case count. The total number of fully vaccinated individuals are now up by more than
30 million after the country has administered 65,764,376 doses of Covid-19 vaccines November 11, 2021 The Philippines logged 1,974 new COVID-19 cases, driving the nationwide tally to 2,811,248. The DOH tallied 28,660 active cases, the lowest active case count in eight months, or since Feb. 22. The health department also recorded 142 more fatalities, which lifted the death toll to 44,866. Meanwhile, 2,388 people recovered, bringing the overall number of recoveries to 2,737,722, or 97.4% of the total number of cases. November 12, 2021 The DOH detected 1,894 new COVID-19 infections on Friday, with the positivity rate rising above 5% after falling below the threshold for two days in a row. The Philippines logged 2,813,115 total confirmed cases, wherein 1% or 29,105 are still active infections. Data shows that there are also 170 more deaths and 1,421 new recoveries. These put the country's total deaths to 45,035 and total recoveries to 2,738,975. November 13, 2021 The DOH reported 1,997 new COVID-19 cases on Saturday, the third consecutive day that the nationwide tally dipped below 2,000. These drove the country's coronavirus caseload to 2,815,080 of which 29,382 were active. The health department also recorded 238 more deaths, putting the total
fatalities to 45,272. Meanwhile, the total number of recoveries reached 2,740,426, after DOH tallied 1,696 new survivors. November 14, 2021 Since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been 2,816,980 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the Philippines, with 1,926 new cases detected on Sunday. However, the health department also tallied 309 new deaths, pushing the death toll to 45,581, while recoveries increased to 3,140, bringing the total to 2,743,297. November 15, 2021 President Rodrigo Duterte has approved the recommendation of the pandemic task force to no longer require face shields in areas with more relaxed quarantine classifications. In a memorandum, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea revealed that wearing face shields is now voluntary in areas under Alert Level 3 and below. Local government units (LGUs) and business establishments in areas under Alert Level 4 have the option to preserve or abandon the policy. Meanwhile, wearing face shields is still mandatory for areas with higher alert level systems and under granular lockdowns. "The above protocols are without prejudice to the continuing mandatory use of face shields in medical and quarantine facility settings, and the required use thereof by healthcare workers in healthcare settings," the memo read.
NEWS Duterte, however, said that only the mandatory use of face shields will be lifted, reminding the public to still wear face masks. “Ang decision ko is okay tanggalin na ninyo ‘yung [face] shield, but not the mask. ‘Yung mask will forever remain and it will be part of our dayto-day safety measure,” the President asserted. November 16, 2021 The Philippines recorded 849 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total number of active cases to 25,464. Meanwhile, 2,393 recoveries have also been recorded, putting the total number to 2,748,069. It was also considered to be the country’s lowest single-day COVID-19 tally in 10 months since December 28, 2020, where the Philippines recorded only 766 virus infections. The country’s total number of COVID-19 cases since the pandemic started was 2,819,341. November 17, 2021 The country recorded an overall case tally of 2,820,494 with 1,190 new infections, while the total number of COVID-19 fatalities reached 46,000 with 309 more deaths. Aside from that, DOH deleted 37 duplicate cases, including 33 recoveries; they reclassified 264 survivors into deaths after validation after one laboratory did not submit data on time and was excluded from the report. Meanwhile, recoveries increased by 97.5% with 2,759 new survivors, leading to a total number of 2,750,531 recoveries. The country’s positivity rate rises slightly to 3.5% based on 33,567 tests reported on Nov. 15. November 18, 2021 With a total of 23,158 active cases, the Philippines’ new confirmed cases are 1,297, resulting in a total tally of 2,821,753 cases since the pandemic started. Meanwhile, the country also tallied 305 new deaths, putting the total number of fatalities to 46,422. The DOH also recorded 1,956 recoveries, bringing the total number of survivors to 2,752,173. Additionally, the Philippines also administered 70,677,771 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines with 31,868,120 being fully vaccinated. November 19, 2021 With a total tally of 2,823,210, the DOH has reported 1,485 fresh COVID-19 cases. Mild symptoms account for 59.6% of the active cases, moderate symptoms for 19.56%, severe symptoms for 12%, critical symptoms for 5%, and no symptoms for 3.8%. With 277 more people succumbing to the virus, the death rate has now reached a total number of 46,698 fatalities.
On a positive note, the recovery count has increased by 1,393 to a total of 2,753,312 recoveries. There are 74,478,651 total doses with 561,078 new doses as of Friday. November 20, 2021 The Philippines has recorded a total of 2,824,499 COVID-19 cases, wherein 22,070 are tagged as active cases. The number of deaths has increased by 205, resulting in a total of 46,903 deaths. The total recoveries also climbed to 2,755,526, with 2,565 new recoveries. Based on the samples collected from 38,636 individuals, there is a 3.2% positivity rate which is noted as the 8th straight day wherein the positivity rate is below 5% in the country. Additionally, the government has started administering booster shots for health workers. A total of 133,779,540 doses of COVID-19 vaccines were provided to the Philippines, with 101,693,460 doses dispersed throughout 17 regions. As of November 20, 32,993,083 Filipinos are fully vaccinated out of the total 73,921,542 doses of COVID-19 vaccines administered. November 21, 2021 After the DOH reported 1,474 new COVID-19 cases on November 20, the Philippines now has 2,826,410 confirmed cases. It is also recorded that 3,152 m o r e patients h a v e
recovered, bringing the recovery tally to 2,758,235. Meanwhile, the total number of deaths recorded is now at 47,074. According to DOH’s COVID-19 vaccination dashboard, 75,600,808 Filipinos have received at least one dose of the vaccine. About 41,993,035 individuals received their first dose, while 33,579,181 second doses and singleshot doses have been administered. November 22, 2021 A total of 984 new COVID-19 cases have been logged, bringing the total caseload to 2,826,853. The death toll rose to 47,288, with 218 new deaths. Meanwhile, the recorded total recovery is 2,759,767, with 2,229 new COVID-19 survivors. After administering 65,764,376 doses of
COVID-19 vaccinations, the overall number of fully immunized individuals has increased by more than 30 million. Meanwhile, the DOH rolled out COVID-19 booster shots to fully vaccinated senior citizens and immunocompromised individuals starting Monday, November 22. In an advisory, the DOH said that those belonging to A2 and A3 are now allowed to be given a single COVID-19 booster dose, either a homologous or a heterologous dose. It also reminded the public that the administration of booster doses is not yet available for the general public.
PHOTO BY ARIS R. ADDUCOL
EDITORIAL NUISANCE
The period of filing of candidacy for the 2022 national elections has been one of the most dramatic events of this year, filled with black propaganda from each camp, the unending revival of criminal records, and the struggle to create opposition against the current regime. The substitution of candidates this November was even worse. As if the Filipinos are unaware of what they call a “strategy” where they would plot a henchman and soon after, replace it with their original candidate. Very unexpected, isn’t it? We are sure we have all seen this tactic six years ago. And what some people find funny instead is the filing of candidacy of some nuisance candidates like Rastaman. He became known for his facial tattoos, likewise how he introduced himself as half-human and half-zombie. This presidential candidate is pushing for reproductive health, divorce, and samesex marriage while not favoring martial law, death penalty, and federalism, with no association of criminal records, yet he is considered disqualified. This is not to tolerate other aspirants like Rastaman to mock the future election, but who really is putting this election in a ridiculous state? Is it the ICC-probed president aspiring to be a senator? The son of the dictator, also known as the faker of everything? Or the religious-yet-anti-LGBTQ senator? What’s disappointing in this situation is the citizens who are supposedly responsible for assessing them are allowing themselves to be blinded. And despite the facts being presented regarding their highly-supported candidates, these fanatics still drool over them. They even influence uneducated voters to support these unfit candidates. Adding fuel to the fire is their script full of ad hominem arguments and baseless accusations against their opponents. As we can see, aside from disqualifying nuisance aspirants, there is a need to level up the qualifications of those we are to vote for. It is not merely considering the educational background of these candidates but also assessing the duties and obligations they fulfilled during their terms. Demanding to know what they have done in office is never wrong since it is their job as public officials. As responsible voters of this country, allow yourself to be educated. Don’t be blinded by their idealistic promises and the dirty money they are about to give. We have been aware of the corruption prevalent in the country ever since, and with this, you should be conscious already of its consequences. The future lies in our hands. Don’t let your country and your fellow Filipinos struggle for another six years. Be part of the solution that will change the gameplay of politics. After all, despite the differences we have, we are all aiming for the improvement of our dear country. Let us not waste the opportunity to vote responsibly in the 2022 national elections.
Face shield policy: Duterte's plastic game THE WATCHMAN
The implementation of the face shield mandate is one of the most controversial policies the Philippine government has ever made. Many individuals have called for the regulation to be scrapped, but the government has remained silent, claiming that face shields are beneficial since they give an added layer of protection. However, President Rodrigo Duterte reversed the policy, approving the pandemic task force’s suggestion to no longer mandate face shields on the same day he announced his senatorial candidacy. The timing seems perfect, but it also appears to be flawed. After the people blatantly in February 2021. Duterte could expressed dissatisfaction with have dropped the face shield the face shield policy, the mandate eight months ago, but president sought to turn the he decided to do so on November tables and capitalize on the 15, the last day for substitution public’s frustrations. Duterte, of candidates and the day he once again, wants to project declared his bid for a Senate seat. an image of a good president Duterte, like most politicians, who overcomes difficulties and carries the same gene of listens to his constituents. He incompetence, unaccountability, has done it in the past, and he and unscrupulousness will continue to do it for his in his blood. The current political gain. Duterte strives to administration’s dishonest put Filipinos under his political practices have caused millions manipulation anew. of Filipinos, especially the His supporters may argue that underprivileged and the the country’s lowest coronavirus marginalized, to suffer even more case count in recent days from the effects of the pandemic. compelled him to make that The impact of his excessive decision. However, we should grip on power and wealth has note that the Philippines likewise been felt more by the poor and had a low number of infections those living in the outskirts,
smashing them with hardships due to senseless government policies that Duterte and his cronies orchestrated. Their lives were obliterated by widespread apathy and greed of the public servants who prioritize their own interests over the welfare of the citizens. As the 2022 election draws closer, we can expect a lot of these political games from Duterte himself. The face shield mandate is a concrete embodiment of how a simple policy can be weaponized for self-gain. Not only were these plastic materials used for the pandemic, but also someone’s political agenda. Since it’s the least they can do yet the very thing that people are craving for, Duterte is using the face shield policy as his special card to win this game they have designed for themselves. Is removing the policy could mean them bringing some ballots in? The answer appears to be yes. Welcome to the Philippines. Welcome to Duterte’s plastic game called face shield policy.
“The Will, not the Win” Mutoni
DAWN V74 Editorial Board Gillian Q. Mortera Editor-in-Chief
Mikhaella P. LLADONES
Brix LELIS
Emille Lyna A. PANOTES
Janae P. AMMUGAUAN
Managing Editor Filipino Editor
Jan Michael Vito H. MARZAN Sports Editor
Mae Angella F. FLOTIBLES Chief Photographer
News Editor
Features Editor
Jessica Ann S. EVANGELISTA Business Manager
Edgin Kristoffer S. ANGELES Art Director
Writers
Piolo S. ALMOITE Karen Louise C. DELOS ANGELES Jazmine Dhane O. GARCIA Terence Dave L. SILVERIO
Marc Stephen M. ANDRES Maria Nykhaela G. JAVILLONAR Amby Marielle L. MASIGLAT Marie Gold Vivien M. TOTANES
Artist
Cyndh Jezzrill Marc C. VILORIA
Photographer
Aris R. ADDUCOL
Mr. Darwin M. GUIANAN Adviser
The Dawn is the official student newspaper of the University of the East and has been so since 1947. Its office is located on the third floor of the College of Engineering Building, UE Caloocan, 105 Samson Road, Caloocan City.
LIMITATIONS hinder us from being more remarkable, but it directs us to become the person we are meant to be. Our individuality sets us apart from others, we are created for a specific role and purpose, and we cannot have it all. The pre-election season is Duterte's statement of wanting high time for players to step up Willie Revillame to run as a their games and lure supporters senator. Revillame reiterated and fanatics into their darkest that spreading kindness and lairs. It is the time to upgrade doing good to people are the their skins, hide their scales, and only reasons he has before do mesmerizing magic tricks. pursuing a national position, Artists, entertainers, athletes, which does not qualify him to and clowns are entering the be in the senatorial rank. arena to which they do not The 'Wowowin' host added belong: politics. that for an individual to run as a Everyone who applies for senator, one must not just have candidacy makes noise, parades the goal to help, but he must themselves, campaigns, makes have the capacity to make and promises, shows up on donation implement laws. He honestly drives, charities, and various told the public that he was not events with a single purpose knowledgeable enough about in mind and a repetitive the tasks of a legislator, which routine, putting on a show and would only drag him to shame. whispering sweet nothings to If he cannot contribute anything their supporters like a pied meaningful to our country, the piper. citizens' votes would just be Regardless of the hype wasted. that politics is gaining this Furthermore, he added that season, entertainer and host if the goal is to help people, Willie Revillame refused to being in a political position is file candidacy for the 2022 not the only answer. For years, elections despite President Revillame has already been
helping people of different ages, statuses, gender, and stories without government involvement and with a better intention than those who claim to be for the people. He knows what he is capable of and has accepted that politics is not the path for him to take. He may not be cultured to be a politician, but announcing his decision has set him apart from candidates forcing themselves to fit in this industry. He has the fame and support to win the game, but he knows how to play it right. We are not meant to try everything. It is a matter of choosing the right match and enjoying it. After all, the goal is not to win, but it is the will to help and spread happiness. Knowing our personal games would prevent us from jumping from one field to another and help us be more accountable for the consequences of our actions. Having a sense of responsibility and honesty would be enough to make us stay and excel on the track where we truly belong.
FEATURES
BREWED BLOOD
STARING down at my keyboard, I let out a heavy sigh and gave my cheeks a few taps. I felt the surge of tiredness and exhaustion creep through my veins and corrupt my mind as I pressed Ctrl + S for the nth time to save my latest assignment, yet instead of closing my eyes and calling it a day, I got up from my seat. “We have to,” I whispered to myself, attempting to fight off the gentle voice in my head trying to lure me towards my bed.
“I bet you’d want a hot cup,” I muttered, hoping to get a response from someone else, knowing well that only I could answer the same sentence. Nodding, I picked up the kettle to heat some water, savoring the few quiet moments I got to spend on my own as I waited for it to whistle. I rely on coffee to give me a dopamine boost and increase my ability to focus most of the time. The bitter drink coats my poor taste buds in agony as I take a sip, and this gives me a perfect illusion of being energized. On the other hand, its smoky aroma kisses my nostrils and relaxes my senses, as if transporting me to a landscape of fog and crickets where I am an isolated protagonist. Coffee is literally bittersweet, which is why I have a love-hate relationship with it. Grabbing my large mug and pouring in the boiling water, I mix in two 3-in-1 sachets, letting the sound of the spoon against the glass echo throughout the room as the drink’s scent flourishes and spreads. I read somewhere that caffeine can be addictive, especially when taken continuously or in prolonged periods. On this note, caffeine addiction symptoms could include shakiness, sleep problems, and anxiety. Irritability and depressed moods could occur too, but I beg to disagree.
Instead of caffeine, I tremble at the thought of failing. My hands uncontrollably shiver at the slightest sight of below-average marks, my shoulders shudder when I receive low scores despite the busy review nights, calling off all plans and cutting off interaction with the people that make me smile. Pulling allnighters used to be fun and enjoyable; it was my escape from reality, a chance to breathe. But staying up late in front of my computer is a chore now, a must, a need, aided by my acrid drink. As I hit ‘refresh’ on my browser, I dread the new emails and notifications. I hyperventilate at the sound of my phone’s ringing, not at the thought of coffee stirring. All I hear are the endless, deafening screams of worry and fear, reminding me that I have tons of backlog. The due dates are starting to choke me. I feel weighed down, and it seems like balance turned its back on me months ago, letting me fall and rot into a dark pit of gloom. I have to get up, so I take a sip of my espresso. Come to think of it, I may not be overly attached to caffeine at all. Maybe, just maybe, I simply crave the numbness it offers. I just want the faux vigor. I need the additional fuel. I yearn for productivity. I hunger for the passion I lost, hoping to stumble upon it at the bottom of every coffee cup I finish. I thirst for sweetness amidst my bitter world. Blinking at my screen as the alarm clock rang for 7:30 a.m., I heaved a sigh. I felt the fatigue enveloping my system as I pressed ‘submit’ for my latest assignment, yet instead of closing my eyes and calling it a day, I got up from my seat. “Cold brew this time?”
Life Beyond the Academe by Maria Nykhaela G. Javillonar
EXAMS, assignments, activities, presentations, organizations, and many more. The moment you’ve started reading these words, you’d most likely already understand the terms being compartmentalized by ‘many more.’ As a student, most especially one that is experiencing the virtual setup of learning, the world seemed to become smaller and tighter. The things that only boss us around in school instantly conquered every aspect of our lives that used to be only for us. Despite finishing one task after another, you’ll eventually get assigned to another one, and it felt like there’s no end to the cycle that we barely know when it started. It seems as if there’s no room for rest or to have the luxury of thinking about other matters. But when you suddenly find yourself done with all the requirements and have already met your deadlines, something feels off. One can even compare the feeling to an anxious king, fearing for a brewing coup d’etat somewhere he cannot reach yet he also cannot confirm. When days pass with no tasks to accomplish, it’s like you’re committing a sin just by not doing anything academic-related. Even the very act of resting might even make you cause some sort of guilt or unease due to a sense of “toxic productivity.”
Dearest Warriors, it’s alright to want to work hard to achieve your dreams. Dreams deserve to be strived for, for they will grant you joy and satisfaction. However, striving has a line not to be surpassed. Do not push yourself to the brink of physical exhaustion and mental breakdowns; even machines stop functioning when they run out of fuel. After all, you are still a human being with other needs and wants. Do not forget that there’s more to life than academics. It’s okay to take a breather and explore more of what life has to offer. It’s okay to just sit there and enjoy yourself by bingewatching your favorite shows or movies, playing video games, finding new hobbies,
trying to rekindle your old passion, or reconnecting with the people you care about. Regardless of what others might say, ‘me’ time is not a waste of time, and as John Lennon has stated, “time enjoyed wasting is not wasted time at all.” Just think about it, why are you even working so hard in the first place? What exactly do you want to achieve? Happiness must surely be one of them, I assume. But how are you going to achieve that when all you do is torture yourself to the point of forgetting why you’re doing what you’re doing in the first place? It’s okay to want a bright future but do not forget about living in the present. You are still here, and the future is still being made. Secure that future by allowing yourself to forge bonds and produce fond memories for your future self to look back upon. Suppose you just spend the entirety of your youthful years slaving away and endlessly worrying about academics. In that case, you might realize that you don’t even know what you’ll end up doing in life beyond the confines of the academe. Unlike within its walls, there is no such standard questionnaire for you to burn the midnight oil for in the actual field. And there is more than one answer and angle to every problem you’ll encounter along the way. So take time for rest and recreation. What matters at the end of it all is for you to be able to find yourself leaving this world not as someone who only saw everything as endless suffering but as someone who lived a life worth living. While you are drowning yourself in coffee and spending multiple all-nighters, please do not forget what it means to live and to dream because there’s still more to life beyond the academe.
FEATURES
Karaniwan ni Amby Marielle L. Masiglat
Kaibigan, KUMUSTA? Tila malungkot ka na naman. Tanaw kong binabalikan mo ang bawat trabahong ‘yong pinagdaanan. Ang pakikipag-usap sa call center, pagiging sekretarya ng isang boss sa kumpanya, pagtulong sa pagpapakilala ng mgaprodukto, habang kinukumbinsi ang taumbayang, “Yes, Ma’am, Sir! Hinding-hindi kayo magsisisi sa produktong ‘to kapag binili ninyo. . .” at marami pang iba. Pakiwari mo’y wala ka nang kwenta. Dahil sa dinami-rami ng kaya mong gawin at mga bagay na naitatawid mo’t paminsan-minsa’y natatawag na tagumpay ay nananatili kang pangkaraniwan. ‘Yon bang tinatawag nila na ‘sakto lang’ o ‘tama lang.’ Sa isip mo’y, ‘buti pa si gan’to ay magaling makipag-usap,’ ‘buti pa si gan’yan ay napakahusay maging sekretarya,’ ‘buti pa si gan’to ay napararangalan.’ Animo’y kung puwede lang ituloy-tuloy na purihin ang iba’y ginawa mo na hanggang sa wala nang matira sa sarili mong tinagurian mo nang ordinaryo’t simple ang tanging karangalan. Sapagkat ang mga parangal naman ay sa kanila lamang napupunta at hindi sa ‘yo na katamtaman lamang ang mga kakayahan at madalas na hindi sigurado sa bunga ng mga kakayahang ‘yon. Dahil ang pagkatiyak nama’y lumalabas lang sa mga taong sadyang mahuhusay at magagaling, hindi sa mga taong walang kakayahan na makalikha ng maaari nilang angkinin. Gayumpaman, hindi ibang tao ang basehan ng ating kagalingan at hindi ang kanilang mga kakayahan ang makapagdadala sa ‘tin sa rurok ng tagumpay. Ang mga opinyon ng ibang tao, para sa atin ay pawang walang kahalagahan dahil kahit sabihin man nilang tayo’y ‘di magaling at hindi kailanman magiging magaling, ay wala ‘yong kahulugan. Ang mga ito’y pawang opinyon ng walang kaalaman sa kung ano ang iyon nakamtan at dinanas, kung kaya’t mga salita nila’y malayo sa katotohanan at hindi dapat pakinggan. Alam mo ba na ang pagkakaroon ng maraming kakayahan, kahit na tila wala ka roong napatutunayan, ay isang daan patungo sa kahusayan? Minsan ang pagiging karaniwan ay nagsisilbing ating paglalakbay sa iba’t ibang bagay at kasanayan. Minsan ang pagiging karaniwan ay oportunidad para maglayag sa iba’t ibang posibilidad na sarado para sa ilan, at mula roon, ‘di natin namamalayang nagiging isang hakbang na pala papalapit sa ating kagalingan. Ang landas ng pagiging karaniwan ay hindi diretso’t mabilis. Kadalasa’y puno ito ng luha at hinagpis. Ngunit, tanungin mo ang ‘yong sarili, mahalaga pa ba ‘yon kung sa dulo’y maaabot mo pa rin naman ang tagumpay? Ang karangalan, ang pagkilala, at ang papuri na noo’y para sa iba lamang? Hindi. Hindi ang sagot d’yan. Dahil kaibigan, gusto ko lang malaman mo na ‘di ka na malungkot ngayon kung saan kita tanaw-tanaw. Ngayon, ikaw ay masaya, matagumpay, at kuntento sa kung nasaan ka nakagayak at kung ano ang mayroon ka. Sa hinaba-haba ng tinahak mo bilang isang pangkaraniwang tao, sa huli’y dinig na dinig ko ang pagsabi mo ng “sulit!” dahil ‘eto ka na ngayon— mahusay at sigurado.
Nagmamahal, Hinaharap
FEATURES The Ifs and Only Ifs
by Marc Stephen M. Andres I HAVE lived and died over a thousand lives, yet there is one mountain I have yet to conquer, an be slowly becoming insane and just talking to myself. Still, I am sure you have been reading up ocean I have yet to navigate, and a storm I have yet to survive. You may think that perseverance to this paragraph, so I am pretty sure you can completely understand where I am coming from. is all you need for a story to end happily. To be fair, it is much easier to judge the result than to Imagine having your routine start with morning classes up until noon, with everybody stuck stay and observe the process. Perseverance, goals, a purpose, where do you look for it? When with online courses. We get caught up in the endless waves of modules taking up even the you are already almost six feet under the ground with all the wrong things, with all the misfortune weekends. Instead of leisure, weekends are transformed into whole days to give you more time you have come to gather into one giant steel ball dragging you down and shackled over you, to procrastinate and cram. You only have a tiny sliver of rest before moving on to next week's new how would you still keep walking? load of tasks and modules. Everybody is exhausted, exhausted in surviving in an environment The first few months, it was rough. The university was fighting their own war while keeping the wherein connecting with other people in a "school setup" to the world we had before was just east at bay. They had to settle for new policies, effectively cutting off numerous scholarships to impossible. win both sides. It was the worst-case scenario in the worst situation, and we all had the same If I may share so, I had a full-time job to hold during nighttime up until the morning, an hour doubts when it happened: "What do I do now?" "Will I still enroll?" "Will I still be able to finish on or half before class started. Did I also mention that I have the responsibility as an officer of my time?" course's organization? Not to mention, I am also a writer here, if you haven't noticed. And I tell Depression, demotivation, despair hit sharply as our first wave, and the next ones subsequently you, the amount of sleep I get is not the kind of quality you would wish to live with every day. become worse. Some chose to accept fate and gave up, and some chose to fight back. The You might think the sanest choice would be to choose one among these, but alas, I never really situation was pretty straightforward: you either stop going to school altogether or find the means considered quitting my double life. I am struggling, and my ten fingers are not enough to count to pay the worth of it all. Indeed, education is such a privilege, and it sure is expensive. There's all the rhetorical questions I've given myself. And yet here I remain, marching forward with the not much to choose from, and given how society looks at one's hand with no diploma resting on sandbags as part of my glory. it, I decided to keep going. They say that when at war, you only get to choose one side; that is why you should choose I chose to find a way to continue what I'd already started. I chose to pay for my education the one that would keep you from being sent home insi de a wooden box the following morning. despite what it will cost me beyond monetary value. After all, a student like me who has lost all I selected a stand. I decided to fight a battle with myself, armed only with my perseverance and possible forms of support from relatives and someone who lives alone can only do so much. determination to end it with my own hands. I will seek victory even if I have to keep going against Living life on "hard" difficulty became an understatement that adulting gave off an impression of fate. It is with my fellow working students that I find strength; in these struggles, the people being extraordinarily frightening and downright mentally and physically exhausting. who choose to dive into the battlefield armed only with their wits, and the feeling of hope that Responsibilities, how do you do them? It took me some time to let it sink in that they're someday, we will write our happy endings. We are never the same people we were yesterday. the sandbags that'll be tied on me in a few years after I graduate: a never-ending loop of bills, That version of yourself has already died, and you will get even better as the times of your death additional deadlines, an unhealthy obsession for cheap coffee, coping mechanisms nowhere near and reborn multiply. desirable, and of course, back pain. I might be speaking only for myself here, and I might also We have lived and died over a thousand lives, so why stop now?
Suspenseful Haven Gapos sa Pakpak by Jazmin Dhane O. Garcia
THE NETFLIX series 'Squid Game' took the world by storm. The show centers on a competition where 456 people risk their lives for a chance to win a $45.6 billion cash prize. Although it was released this September 2021, it garnered tons of recognition and could even be considered the highest-grossing show the platform has ever released. Hooked and fascinated by the series' plot due to its thrilling and electrifying storyline, many people began to gather to hunt titles of similar dynamics to Squid Game. So, if you like things that exhibit survival skills, critical thinking, challenges, and partisanship, then here are some movies and series to binge-watch. The Hunger Games (2012) Ready or Not (2019) When we think of survival games, one 3, 2, 1, hide! Ready or Not is an American thing’s for sure; Hunger Games is one of the comedy horror film that follows Grace, a first titles that’ll immediately pop into our newlywed woman whose in-laws persuade minds. The story follows Katniss Everdeen her to play a seemingly harmless game after from District 12, who lives in a continent her wedding ceremony. Being a former foster where tributes are chosen in every district to child, she delights on his husband’s family’s participate in the annual competition called long history and traditions. However, the fun ‘Hunger Games,’ which is the movie’s title itself. tradition quickly goes downhill and turns gory With her younger sister initially chosen, she and dark when it’s revealed that their history volunteers in her place and must win the game is thanks to an ‘evil’ deal made by the family’s by ensuring she’ll be the last man standing. ancestor. Although it offers the same dynamics as The story will have you guess which of the Squid Game, the difference between the family members is an ally or enemy, but most two series is that allegiances are mostly clear importantly, it will reveal how far humans can even before the Games begin. Ultimately, it go for the sake of tradition and wealth. If you involves a bigger picture where politics and the like movies that’ll scare you and make you pursuance of freedom are both at play. laugh at the same time, then you should have your popcorn ready to watch Ready or Not— Escape Room (2019) no pun intended. Escape Room is a psychological thriller film that focuses on six players hailing from Alice in Borderland (2020) different backgrounds who are invited to solve This Japanese Netflix series also took the an escape room with $10,000 at stake after country by storm before Squid Game arrived managing to solve a puzzle. Much to its title, and is based on a manga by Haro Aso with the the challenge revolves around multiple rooms same title. The characters find themselves in a that can only be opened one after another parallel Tokyo where they can barely find other if they successfully discover the mystery people and are forced to play various games assigned to each room. that eventually challenge their mentality and It anchors the theme as Squid Game, where a teamwork. seemingly innocent and fun competition turns With an active plot unfolding more out to be deadly and sadistic. This movie fits compelling characters and more brainteasing people who aren’t that comfortable with gory games as it goes on, it received multiple awards scenes since it focuses more on breaking down such as Best Director, Best Cinematography, the obstacles and their solutions. But beware, and Best Visual or Special Effects in the Asian the mystery doesn’t end with the rooms, and Academy Creative Awards. the ending may not be what you expect. Alice in Borderland focuses more on solving problems and critical thinking, a concept that As the Gods Will (2014) is pretty similar to Squid Game. You cannot This Japanese supernatural horror film expect the games to be solved in the most covers the life of an ordinary high-schooler, logical way, but sometimes, it does, and that’s Shun Takahata, who strongly likes vicious the challenge! If you are a big fan of fast-paced video games. Sick of his boring life, he is shows, Alice in Borderland is perfect for you. surprised to find himself playing a deadly game Viewers are kept on the edge when guts, of Red Light, Green Light, popularly known in wits, and luck are put to the test, and these Japan as ‘Daruma-san ga koronda’ or ‘Daruma movies and shows are undeniably not for the Fell Over.’ faint of heart, but the adrenaline rush just Comparably with Squid Game, things didn’t keeps us coming back for more! Have you ever go well as soon as the game became violently watched one of these movies? Which one of real, especially when you’re also dealing with a them do you consider as your suspenseful doll that gives no mercy on giving out penalties. haven?
Lahat tayo ay biniyayaan ng mga pakpak, Bagay na tumatawag sa ating palakpak, Layunin natin ay malaya itong maigayak. Subalit hindi basta-basta ang pagpagakpak, ‘Pagkat bawat isa sa ‘tin ay may gapos sa pakpak.
Ang gapos ay maaring mga tao sa ating buhay, Gayon na rin ang mga pananaw ng lipunan, Mga baluktot na pananaw na tila dinamitang kultura, Dinisenyo bilang pamantayan ng pagkakabilang, Nang sa gayo’y huwag kumabig sa isip ang tumuligsa. Ang gapos, pilit na lalasunin ang iyong pagkatao, Paniniwalain kang sa sarili mong isipa’y ‘di ka sigurado. Maging iyong nararamdaman ay ki-kwestiyunin mo, Pati ang pagsabi ng simpleng ‘hindi’ ay ikatatakot mo. Iyan ang unang senyales na lumilingkis na ang gapos. Ang gapos ay tila bampirang sisipsip sa ‘yong dugo, Iiwanan kang namumutla at tuliro. Tuwing makikisama sa kanila, lakas mo’y nasa peligro. Takot at inggit na wala noon, sa ‘yo ay rerehistro. Pananalig sa ‘yong sarili, unti-unting maglalaho. Ang gapos, kung minsan, tayo rin ang nagtatanikala, Madalas sa ating sarili at maaari ring sa ating kapwa. Tayo’y makaaalpas kung bibig at akto’y pag-iingatan. Kaibiga’y piliin, talikdan kung gapos nang maituturing. Pakpak ay lalaya kung magiging tunay sa sarili.
PHOTOS
HOW ARE YOU? Photos by jelo damian, mae angella flotibles, and shane martino
When the mind starts to suffocate the body, intrusive voices inside your head may lure in chaos. Your emotions are valid and not destructive. Reality is harsh, and it will force you to march, blue and black, scabs and cuts. Chin up, remember that while humanity is far from scenic, you are the epitome of a phoenix.
SPORTS Frank Rieza joins ADT, begins professional career With a dream of making it big at the professional level, former University of the East (UE) goalkeeper Frank Chester Rieza begins his journey by joining the Azkals Development Team (ADT). “It’s overwhelming. Excited kasi it’s such a big opportunity to be in this team. It is also my dream to be part of a professional team. Sobrang saya na mapabilang sa ADT,” expressed Rieza. ADT is a national team program that serves as a gateway from the college level to the professional playing field. He is joined alongside former Warrior teammate, Mar Vincent Diano, who plays as a defender. Rieza shared that he never had a proper goalkeeping coach in his college days since all he had was coach Fitch Arboleda and coach Aguirre. But regardless, he
remained confident in his skills and his ability to keep up with the others. He also added that it’s what sets him apart from other players, his guts and determination. “Iba yung karanasan at kasanayan ko kumpara sa ibang goalkeeper. Wala akong goalkeeping coach noong UAAP, pero kumpyansa ako na kaya kong patunayan at makipagsabayan sa ibang goalkeeper,” Rieza added. His loads of experiences in the University helped him grab the opportunity, stating that in every game, a 100-percent is not enough and that it should be a 120-percent. “…magkaroon ng disiplina sa paglalaro at higit sa lahat magenjoy, ‘yan lagi sinasabi ng coach namin,” he added. The ADT goalkeeper also said that the UAAP and Copa Paulino
PhilPost honors Jaworski through commemorative stamps Red Warrior icon Robert “Sonny” Jaworski has been immortalized by the Philippine Postal Corporation (PHLPost) through a launch of his commemorative stamps to acknowledge his victorious contributions to Philippine basketball over the years. Sonny, popularly known as “Big J,” was part of the Red and White that won the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Men’s Basketball Championship in 1965 and 1966, beginning UE’s record 7-peat string of UAAP Men’s Basketball Crowns. In a Facebook post, PhilPost wrote, “The Big J is an icon in more than one sense of the word – so much so that his figure is what embellishes the “B” in the logo of the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA).” “His legendary status and his popularity are the results of his discipline, dedication, and passion on and off the court – and his “Never Say Die” attitude,” commemorating the living legend.
Jaworski is one of the pioneer point guards to have ever won a PBA MVP award when he dominated the 1978 season with a near triple-double figure of 20.42 points, 10.20 rebounds, and 8.24 assists. He was named part of the PBA’s 40 Greatest Players, PBA All-time leader in career assists, and was inducted into the PBA Hall of Fame in 2005. The UE sports icon was not able to attend the awarding ceremony due to health condition, representing him was his son Dodot, through a letter, “You have made me feel a different sense of pride and accomplishment incomparable to any other.” Big J wrote. The stamps were released on Saturday, October 16 at the Manila Central Post Office, as part of the series titled, “sALAMAT, Pagpupugay sa mga Alamat (A Tribute to Filipino Legends), in recognition of Filipino achievers in various fields whose work and accomplishments have earned praise in the national and international scenes.
Olympians eye UAAP to add weightlifting, boxing in collegiate sports.
The University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) is open to the possibility of including Olympic sports such as weightlifting and boxing in their full calendar year. As stated in one of the episodes of UAAP Talks, Executive Director Atty. Rebo Saguisag said that they had already heeded the requests and pleas of the country’s Olympic athletes to introduce the two athletic sports into their curriculum. This is after the weightlifter gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz said she wants to include her sport in the UAAP, NCAA, and Palarong Pambansa. She had also told Atty. Rebo about this matter, three (3) years prior. “We’re very much open. From a league’s standpoint, it’s relatively easier. The only challenge is actually for the member schools now because they will open up new teams and maintain those teams,” UAAP Executive Director Atty. Saguisag said. He also stated that boxing was once part of the UAAP sports and it will be
a good thing to reassess and advocate the national sports to the universities. The plan to include weightlifting and boxing in the UAAP events will still depend on the participating universities if ever they are open to accepting the challenging task of growing their athletic programs. “For the member schools, it would mean new uniforms, scholarships, coaches, etc. That’s likely the challenge for us all,” he said. Atty. Saguisag stresses out how it is tough sustaining various varsity teams in the past years, especially now that the country is still in the coronavirus pandemic epoch. In line with what Saguisag has said, recalling the past issues dwelled by the UAAP’s student-athletes, the University of the East decided to disband several varsity teams last August. These teams include taekwondo and chess. The decision of adding the two Olympic sports in UAAP has yet to be made, probably in the upcoming years.
Alcantara differ, particularly in the level of skills of the players, whereas in the former, discipline and expertise might be improved, while the latter holds a higher level since the players already know everything in the field. “Sobrang laki ng pinagkaiba ng UAAP kumpara sa Copa. Sa Copa, those players are in the highest level, like they know everything in the field,” said Rieza. He was delighted being with Mar Diano on the team and said that he could not say anything as he already represents the country. “Super happy, he’s the best! Wala na akong masasabi diyan,” expressed Rieza when asked on what it feels playing alongside former UE teammate Diano. As for future endeavors, Rieza looks forward to long years of playing and more competitions, most especially in the international scene.
Rieza, the former UE Warrior, poses in an ADT Kit.
PH fencers to conduct bubble training in Ormoc City
By Piolo s. Almoite The Philippine Fencing National Team Esteban, two members of the women's is returning to its bubble training in Ormoc foil, will not suit up for the training bubble. City in preparation for the 31st Southeast The fencers, who completed a 1-2 record Asian (SEA) Games in Hanoi, Vietnam, in in the last open tournament, are playing 2022. overseas. The Philippine Sports Commission Catantan has returned early this month (PSC) confirmed that the bubble training to the United States to continue her would begin from September 18 to studies at Penn State University, where December 5 at the Ormoc City Stadium, she is on a scholarship as a fencing athlete the identical venue where it started a to represent the Nittany Lions, while similar setup in January, and an open Esteban is currently in a preparation camp fencing tournament last July set by the in Italy. Philippine Fencing Association (PFA). Canlas said that Gomez had Head coach Rolando "Amat" Canlas informed him of holding another Open said that he was very thankful for the Championship in January to determine support to hold training given by the the final roster for the upcoming Southeast Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and Asian (SEA) Games. the Philippine Fencing Association (PFA). "The last Open championship in Ormoc "We are thankful to the PSC for the City was the selection process for the support, and of course to Mayor Richard upcoming SEA Games, but since it was Gomez for opening the Ormoc City as a canceled, naging selection na lang siya for training venue. Last month pa sana 'to, but spots in the national team," said Canlas. because of the lockdowns and quarantines, “So magkakaroon again ng selection, it was pushed to next month," Canlas mostly likely ang gusto ni Mayor sa stated. January para after ng break naming Canlas added that all top four finishers from the bubble, Holiday Season, hindi in each division and weapon would be part rin magpabaya ang mga fencers," Canlas of the Ormoc training. added. For the women's team, Wilhemina The multi-awarded head coach also Lozada and Justine Gail Tinio will banner revealed that the Fil-foreigners are the foil, Jaymi delos Santos, Mickyle Rein encouraged to participate in the bubble Bustos, and Hanniel Abella in epee while training except for Samantha and Maxine Jylyn Nicanor, Queen Denise Dalmacio, as they tallied 1-2 in the women's foil. Allaine Nicole Cortey, and Kimberly To recall, the national team captured Camahalan will suit in sabre. two gold medals in fencing led by Jylyn In the men's division, Nathaniel Nicanor in women's sabre, and the epee Perez, Samuel Tranquillan, Jojo Viceo women's team courtesy of Abella and and Michael Nicanor in foil, sabre's CJ Bustos through the 2019 30th SEA Games Concepcion, Donnie Arth Navarro, Sandro hosted by our country. Sia, and Daniel Villanueva, while Noelito On the other hand, the committee chose Jose, Lee Ergian Ergina, Jian Miguel to postpone the biennial meet this year Bautista, and Darryl Lumahan in epee. amid the rising cases of COVID-19. Meanwhile, fencing phenom Samantha The 31st SEA Games is expected to begin Catantan and former Atenean Maxine in Hanoi in March or April 2022.
Members of the Philippine National Fencing Team poses with Ormoc City Mayor Richard Gomez. (Photo courtesy of Coach Canlas)