The Eagle Online Newsletter Issue 2 P.Y. 2021-2022

CSA-B RELIEF EFFORTS DURING THE ODETTE TYPHOON

by Acel Jone Cayot

The super typhoon Rai, locally known as Odette, wreaked havoc on Negros Island on December 2021, particularly in the south, displacing around 1,700 households in Regions VI, VII, VIII, MIMAROPA, and Caraga, according to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

About 1,100 are housed in over 120 evacuation centers, while 650 families stayed with relatives or friends outside of the centers.

Due to conflicting priorities such as providing regular and necessary

treatment, immunizations, and preventing the spread of COVID-19, health staff resources were overstretched, and dengue cases were on the rise in both Southern Leyte and Caraga.

In response to the desperate need for the assistance of the residents, the CSA-B SG, CHAP Student Council, and Rotaract CSAB Chapter collaborated with the Rotary Club of Bacolod for a joint relief operation in Kabankalan City, and around 250 relief packs and 500 gallons of potable drinking

water were amassed and delivered to residents.

This joint relief operation is made possible through the efforts of the Rotary Club of Bacolod, headed by President Pauline Cuaycong, CHAP Student Council Governor Mary Abegail Pastrana, CSAB Student Government Executive President John Philip Rollo, Rotaract CSA-B Chapter President Deanna Therese Cerna, Mr. Renato D. Lacanilao, COE Student Council Governor Kenneth Florentino, and CHAP Rotaract members.

Written

SMILE OF HOPE. A young boy captured smiling while receiving relief goods as an aid during the Odette onslaught at the town of Candoni, Negros Occidental.

Photo Courtesy: Kim Kathleen Ariza

CSA-B opens limited face-to-face classes for Health and Allied Profession courses

Written by Faye Angela Alimane

safety of the students.

Students have to comply with an online daily heath monitoring everyday even before the limited face-to-face classes to ensure that they are fit and ready for the reopening of the school.

Upon arrival at school, students’ temperatures were checked, fill-up another health declaration form, and they were also subjected to another physical examination at the school’s clinic.

One-way traffic is also observed inside the school and for the safety of students, they were asked to bring their own food from their homes.

Colegio San Agustin-Bacolod’s Medical Technology Program under College of Health and Allied Professions Department is the first among other schools offering the said program in Negros Occidental to conduct limited face-to-face classes in the midst of pandemic.

The first day of the limited faceto-face classes for the MedTech students of CSA-B started last December 6.

Strict protocols were implemented by the school as well as the Program Committee under MedTech program of CSA-B to ensure the health and

Another batch of MedTech students will have their face-toface classes next week on December 13, 2021 and by January they are expected to have their internship at the affiliated hospitals of the school.

Nursing program under CHAP Department is also expected to have their limited face-to-face classes as well on December 15 – 16, 2021.

Augustinian Journalists Reaped 6 Awards in College Press Conference and Awards 2021

Written by Danibel Perez

The Eagle once again set flight and captured four individual awards and two group feats during the College Press Conference and Awards 2021 (COPRE) organized by Philippine Information Agency (PIA) in Western Visayas held via Zoom from December 14 to 15

Among the Augustinian student writers who competed and won in various on-the-spot writing competitions were Tricia Nicole Panzo (Champion) in Copyreading, Charriz Anne Santiago (3rd place) and Arienne Joy Amodia (4th place) in Editorial Writing (English),and Acel Jone Cayot (3rd place) in Sports Writing (English).

The publication was also recognized in two group awards in which they managed to clinched the first place title in the “Best Newsletter” and was also awarded as the fifth placer in the”Best Wall News”.

Around 50 campus publications from Region 6 participated during this year’s event to enrich the learning experience and maintain the social consciousness of tertiary campus journalists amid the pandemic.

This is the second year that the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) held its College Press Conference (COPRE) and Awards virtually that

aims to acknowledge the success of school publications and individual writers in the field of development communication.

“Augustinian journalists continue to excel despite the limitations of online classes and virtual activities, the publication continues to strive and fly high like an eagle to leave a lasting impression on the growth of aspiring journalists, advocacy on social conscience and environmental awareness, and journalistic competence of the Augustinian community.”, The Eagle Editor-in-Chief, Arienne Joyce Amodia, said.

INTO THE ZONE. Medical Technology students onced back into the laboratory for limited face-to-face classes. | Photo Courtesy: The Eagle FB Page

Campaign grand rallies kick off for May 2022 National and Local Elections

Written by Faye Angela Alimane

February 8, 2022 marked the start of campaign period for the national candidates of the Philippines.

On this day, candidates eying for the highest positions held their kick off rallies on their respective chosen places.

Ferdinand Marcos who is running for presidency together with his running mate Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte officially launched their campaign at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan which is owned by one of

the most influential religion in the country, the Iglesia ni Cristo.

On the same day the current Vice President of the Philippines, Leni Robredo together with her running mate Senator Kiko Pangilinan kicked off their campaign at the Plaza Quezon in Naga City.

Senator Manny Pacquiao along with vice presidential bid Lito Atienza chose to held their kick off campaign in his hometown General Santos City.

On the other hand, Presidential and vice-presidential bet Panfilo Lacson and Vicente Sotto III respectively started their campaign with a mass at Imus Cathedral in Cavite.

Lastly, Mayor Isko Moreno and his running mate Doctor Willie Ong held their campaign kick-off at the Heroes Park, Manila.

The said campaign kick offs were in preparation for the May 9, 2022 elections.

Dengue cases in Bacolod rise up by April 2022

In recent reports from the Bacolod City Epidemiological Surveillance Unit (BCESU), dengue cases in the city showed a significant increase by the month of April as compared to last year.

Chief Dr. Grace Tan of the City Health Environment Sanitation Division said that 101 dengue cases with three fatalities were reported this April while last year’s report was 70 cases with two deaths, this year came with 44.3 percent increase.

Dr. Tan and her team have been doing a recorida and tri-media

campaign to combat dengue through distribution of larvicides, spraying and fogging in public places where possible breeding grounds of Aedes mosquito be found.

She also reminded residents, if possible, to avoid wading in flood waters especially during this rainy season; using of prophylaxis medications within 24-48 hours or as soon as one comes in contact with contaminated water and opt for consultations upon feeling early signs and symptoms of the said disease.

Written by Tricia Nicole Panzo || Graphics by Abigail Cordova

ANGAT-BUHAY. TRoPa Proclamation Rally in Naga City | Photo Courtesy: Rappler

UNITY. UniTeam Proclamation Rally in Philippine Arena, Bulacan | Photo Courtesy: PhilSTAR L!fe

EDITORIAL

Different Shades, Same Colors

Cartooning by Angelika Odango

The dawn of a new age has risen and along it comes a new set of leaders. Each of them are tinted with shades that stand for values and promises that look shiny upon the voter’s eyes. Some may resemble fiery reds that both symbolize passion and illumination towards a new path, leaving the rocky road to be in ruins. Others may take favor of the blossoming pinks that harbor good intentions, a clean slate and sheer love of country. Despite knowing this, the Filipino people still remain unified by the presence of one singular but extremely important question: Which is the right way?

The 2022 National Elections will pave the way into the birth of a new administration. The rising genesis of new trends pose a new challenge towards the running candidates. According to the Center for Strategic and International Studies or the CSIS, 90% of the Philippine population who are able to access the internet are on social media. As a result, the demands of a good social media presence and connectivity become

a new norm during campaigns, such as the emergence of threats like fake news, biases and misinformation. Maria Buenabora from Asia Foundation labels social media in the presence of elections as “a lifeline of ever flowing, available information”. Because of this, being able to dominate the digital space could have the capacity to shape the public’s opinion, and the candidates use this to their advantage. Indeed, people live in a society of convenience where easy promotion, readily available statements are handed out electronically and advocacies become widely known with just a tap of the share button. In social media, the wave of the colors still exist, but they transform into a series of satirical, graphical artworks, interviews from famous vloggers, tweets that seek and announce relief operations and witty memes. At its darkest, social media has played a crucial role in severing ties from friends or family members, blocking rabid supporters and strapping on a sword to fight as a keyboard warrior in the comments.

In a 2017 survey done by the CSIS, it was found out that Filipinos trust social media more than mainstream media, with 87% of the chosen respondents still trusting the information found on posts in social media. As a response to this, it is why media literacy should always be taught in schools and the workplace. The problem with the constant stream of information is the fact that there is no immediate way of knowing if something is true. The filter only exists through critical thinking. Consequently, people should know how to properly assess and evaluate references, because like the shifting hues of a chameleon, the colors people see may be deceiving.

Despite straying away from the traditional route of elections, the shades remain, repainting their names in the most dignified fashion.. Whatever color may it be, they all collectively settle on the same spectrum: to lead the nation to nationalistic greatness and prosperity with the truth leading the way.

OPINION

As a person grows older, his perception of a hue may change. Color is typically perceived by children as something that completes a thing, making it more appealing to the eyes. However, teenagers and adults who were able to understand how the world—particularly the government— worked would sometimes relate it with politics. Politicians in this sector use colors to represent themselves. The latest elections in the country are a prime illustration of this. Colors and platforms were utilized by presidential candidates and their subordinates to convince Filipinos why they were deserving of a post. Colors were constantly employed by politicians even back in the day, and as a result, hues that were merely a reflection of emotions and a visual aspect have continued to signify a part of a nation’s history.

While wearing the colors of your favored candidate is okay, it is also critical to carefully select your represented hue. Now that the elections are over, do you have any regrets at the color you chose? Or were you happy for standing up for it, proudly raising what you carefully

chose? Were the odds in your favor, or were they against you?

What is also crucial is how you conducted yourself throughout the elections and how you treated your fellow man. Elections are held to choose the next set of rightful leaders, and to educate your fellow Filipinos on the importance of choosing brains over brawn. This is not a contest of who has staged the finest concerts and largest feasts. It is also not an occasion to personally attack someone on your social media accounts and label them as something they are not—especially if their opinions are diametrically opposed to yours. Instead, it should be a chance to persuade them of the importance of properly casting their ballots in selecting the right candidates.

Political colors have divided people, and made some lose sight of why these were created in the first place. It created a lot of mishaps, chaos in relationships, and misunderstandings. Colors are merely representations, and not something that one should be preoccupied about, to the point where empathy is lost.

It should only be used as something to show support for your preferred candidate and their platforms, as well as how you envision the country in the following six years.

John C. Maxwell once said, “ Life is a matter of choices, and every choice you make makes you.” While the politicians’ colors as well as their agendas may appear appealing, it is also critical to constantly stay impartial while being courteous to others. It is vital to do one’s research, fact check, and to try to look beyond what you merely see from the facade. Furthermore, it should serve as a reminder to everybody that the colors that should be hoisted are those of the Philippines, not the candidates. These politicians and their political parties exist to serve the country and its citizens, not to be served and worshiped.

Shannon Libo-on

OPINION

THE LIGHT THROUGH THE DARK

To many, power can only be achieved through fear and aggressive action. It can also be seen in the form of a monster with fangs or a man with a gun, but to others, power is a collection of kindness and goodwill. It is the courage to do what is right in the face of darkness. Even as the night covers the sky, power persists in the form of the dawning light, knowing it shall rise again.

On the 22nd of February 1986, the Filipino people had a glimpse of the rising dawn on the other side, but they had also seen the mountains that needed to be climbed. As Martial Law pressed on, Former President Ferdinand Marcos continued to rule the country with an iron fist. Chaos was expected, but it never happened. Instead, people from distinct backgrounds flocked together to defy the horrific and unjust outcomes from the dictatorship with prayers and a unified presence of a bloodless movement. As it happened, this peaceful protest was on its way into becoming one of the most famous displays of amicable activism to have ever struck Asia. Nuns made way for food to be available to the armed militia while multiple families stood together on unstained streets to show their stance. The patriotic spirit emitted along the streets of EDSA was on a league of its own. However, the shining light of the movement was pushed due

to years and years of disastrous bloodshed and degeneracy.

The New York Times identified the breaking point for the movement through Former President Marcos’ win in a 1986 presidential snap election. Historian Dr. Gregorio F. Zaide had called the polls “one of the most historically confusing and controversial elections in Philippine history”. In his book, Philippine History and Government, he explained that the unofficial private count of a group of volunteers had cited that Mrs. Aquino and Mr. Laurel had won. However, the official government count contradicted this, showing the win of Mr. Marcos and Mr. Tolentino. This piece of news had left the majority in bewilderment, stating that the wins were falsified in favour of Marcos. By the time they were signed into office, the Filipino people had had enough.

The snap elections was only the tip of the iceberg, as the Martial Law regime left a permanently dark scar on Philippine history. Amnesty International cites extensive corruption and numerous human rights violations in the form of killings, large-scale detainments, torture, mysterious disappearances and arrests. It has been noted that over 50,000 people ranging from journalists, human rights activists, lawyers, and church volunteers were arrested from 1972 to 1975, some

of the peak years of Martial Law. During this period, blood was drawn, freedom was scarce, and the voices who pleaded for change were silenced. The obstruction of justice was thought to be a forgone conclusion, until a surprising amount of Filipinos stood their ground and continued to climb on. Instead of aggressively pushing themselves towards the heights with revenge written on their eyes, they took one gentle step after the other before letting their intentions speak for themselves. Peace was what they wanted, and so peace was what they gave.

The people were the driving forces of such displays of patriotism, outnumbering a single dictator. Despite living under hard conditions, they had dared to set their foot down before the tanks. Their unwavering commitment showcased one thing: the act of achieving good liberty under the threat of wicked control can only be done through the passionate pursuit of what is righteous and true. For the Filipino people who marched the streets of EDSA, their light of peace and love of country unlocked the dawn of a new tomorrow.

shannonmarieliboon@gmail.com

Alecxis Caringal

FEATURE

MUTED: The Irony of Online Education

Words by Tricia Nicole G. Panzo Illustration by Angelika Odango

Laptop check, headphones on, calculator and reference book placed on the side table. “Good morning class, am I audible? Is my slide visible?” Cecil said while trying to figure out which button to press as she is about to start her 7:30 a.m. lecture.

Mrs. Cecilia Dolorosa is a 59year old high school teacher. Almost half of her life was dedicated to the academe of numbers, variables and equations. She learned to love and embrace this kind of life; teaching the subject which most students find complicated. Her goal as an educator has always been to make a difference in her students’ lives.

She is the kind of teacher whom her students consider as a strict and tough-spirited one. During the physical classes, it is easy to tell and feel her presence. How? When you pass by the hallway of the classrooms, try finding the quietest one and check who is sitting on the teacher’s table. In her class, you will see eyes glued on the blackboard with the

clicking of pens and calculator buttons as the only things you will hear.

One of the things Mrs. Dolorosa is looking forward to in her last year before her retirement is being in a room filled with students as many as her age. She promised to herself that in her last year in the academe, she will be more lenient towards her students. She imagines herself happily engaging with them during class discussions, creating an environment where students would enjoy learning numbers and equations.

Year 2020 came, everything seemed to move at a fast pace. As things turned upside down and everyone’s hope of a better year was cut at its root, so as Mrs. Dolorosa’s smile turned to a frown. The pandemic brought instant change in our lives, depriving us of the things we normally do.

The education sector was one of the things that was placed

on a pedestal. Students and teachers were put into war without any shield or armour to use in the battle. As the Covid-19 virus pressed the enter button, blackboards shifted into digital screens, wooden pencils and inked pens transformed into keyboards and computer mouse, handwritten notes on paper became typewritten notes. This is a drift none of us expected to happen.

Two years into the pandemic and we are still living in this digital realm. Teachers and students are still trying to grasp how to make this online education as effective as before. Fresh strategies are being tried and some but unfortunately not all can adapt to it in a matter of minutes.

“Class, were you able to understand our lecture for today? Give me a thumbs up.” Mrs. Dolorosa asked as she stopped sharing her screen. One of her students answered, “Ma’am, I’m sorry, I think you forgot to unmute your microphone.”

FEATURE

When A Stroke of Art Gives Hope

Words by Kristine Adrelle Modina Illustration by Amelia Fatima Alaban

National Arts Month falls in February of every year, a long overshadowed celebration that competes with the Month of Love. And with the singles pandemic still ongoing, might as well mark your calendars with something else to look forward to. History says that in 1991, the late President Corazon Aquino signed Presidential Proclamation No. 683 to celebrate the artistic excellence and acknowledge the diverse heritage and culture of the Filipino people, hence its birth. However, to the general public, art, in its many forms, has since been an intrinsic human characteristic that goes beyond geographic borders and to the depths of the wandering heart, celebrated long before bygone eras.

Art has been argued to be a type of representation, expression, and form and is evidently seen in painting, sculpture, literature, architecture, cinema, music, and theater (Eden). One could even extend the connotation to the act of oration, photography, couture, and cookery as extended art forms. And

although the world is busy pursuing pragmatic reasons for a living, to find meaning whether in love, death, or the fickleness of life may as well lie in the creation and appreciation of the said arts.

Two years into the pandemic has rattled the routines and livelihoods of many. The abrupt change resulted in new perspectives and an overwhelming set of (if not, negative) emotions, which had nurtured an escapist mindset that had either overindulged in food and media consumption or prompted the pursuit of a life they had always wanted. Moreover, some were left overworked in the medical field; others, jobless for various economic and personal reasons. Everything did not make sense then, yet everyone had to wait for it to make sense. In those dire times, coping mechanisms were to each their own, and art had clearly been one of them, mainly as a form of expression to “make sense of things”. An expression of deep thanks to those who sacrificed their time and lives to help those in need,

an expression of grief and mourning for lost loved ones, an expression of restoration, and most of all, of hope, for uncertain futures. These stories were encapsulated in the forms of songs, poetry, murals, film, oil, and water-colored canvases—whether personal or in formal written records, it is a mark of history in its own right.

Were you to stroll in art districts, along sidewalks splayed with murals, sit in opened cinemas, a little loose in health protocols due to low cases to none, faded colors and new art has stated a passage of time. Art has now become a form of representation by then of what had transpired. Be it through a pandemic, getting over unrequited love, or walking down memory lane with regrets and lessons learned. Art may as well be the epitome of the phrase “good things do come out of the bad”. It serves as a physical reminder of how each stroke of a brush on canvases or songs played in a loop made during grim times tells a story of hope ever persevering.

FILIPINO

LIWANAG NG KABABAIHAN sa Gitna ng Madilim na Kawalan

ni Kirk Simoun Guimbal

Sa pagsapit ng gabi, habang nababalutan ng kadiliman ang mga kalangitan. Habang napapalitan ang araw ng buwan. Habang marami ang nagpapahinga. Habang tahimik na ang lahat. Tila may isang babaeng napapagod, nahihirapan, nagdurusa, umiiyak habang hinihintay ang sikat ng mumunting liwanag na mismong senyales ng kanyang pagkalaya sa sakit na dulot ng isa sa mga maraming gabi na hindi niya makakalimutan sa buong buhay niya.

Dali-daling umahon at tumakas ang nagngangalang Aling Mely nang sumikat ang araw sa kwarto kasama ang isang lalaki na ninakaw at ipinagkait ang kanyang karapatan bilang babae. Tilang namumulang mga pasa, dumudugong labi at ilong at hindi makakatumbasang sakit sa

pagitan ng hita ang kinahinatnan niya sa gabing magdamag. Sa gabi na kung saan nagpapahinga at natutulog ang lahat ay siyang hindi namang matahimik at gising na kaluluwa na siyang walang ibang iniisip kundi makatakas sa halang na kaluluwa at salbaheng mga kamay ng kanyang kinakasama.

Isa si Aling Mely sa mga libulibong mga babae ang naging biktima ng pang-aabuso at panggagahasa sa iba’t-ibang sulok ng bansa. Tila ang mga babae na tulad niya ay natatakot at tahimik lamang dahil nakataya ang dignidad at mismong buhay nila kung sila man ay nagtangkang sumumbong sa mga awtoridad. Sila ay unti-unting nawawalan na ng pag-asa, pangarap at inspirasyon dahil walang tao na handa silang ipaglaban at iangat ang kanilang mga buhay upang maitakas sila sa karurukan ng kadiliman na kanilang nararanasan.

Sa laganap na paglapastangan at pagsasawalang-halaga ng mga babae tilang may isang liwanag na umilaw at bumuhay ng kanilang pag-asa upang ipaglaban ang kanilang mga karapatan. Ang GABRIELA o (General Assembly Binding Women for Integrity, Reform, Equality, Leadership and Action) party-list ay isang sektor na sumusulong at nakikibaka sa isyu na kinakaharap patungkol sa mga kababaihan. Ito ay ipinangalan alinsunod sa bayani na si Gabriela Silang na umalsa laban sa mga Espanyol noong unang panahon.Ilan sa mga isyu tulad ng human trafficking, karahasan at sex trafficking ang kanilang tinutulungan sa pamamagitan ng pagsulat at paggawa ng mga batas na maaaring makatulong

sa mga babae tulad ng sa naranasan ni Aling Mely.

Dahil sa RA 7941 itinatag ang sistema ng party-list sa bansa na binubuo ng halos 20% ng congressional seats sa lehislatibong sangay ng pamahalaan. Sa pamamagitan ng party-list na ito, magkakaroon ng boses ang mga kababaihan sa kongreso upang marinig at mabigyan ng nararapat na mga solusyon at programa ang mga problema at paghihirap na dinanas ng iba’t ibang babae sa bansa. Isa ang GABRIELA sa mga daan-daang party-list na naging matagumpay na tumulong at sumagip ng mga buhay ng ilang kababaihan na biktima ng iba’t ibang uri ng pangaabuso.

Isa sa kanilang naging programa ang paglunsad ng Purple Rose Campaign Against Sex Trafficking of Filipino Women and Children noong 1999. Layon ng programang ito na protektahan ang mga babae na naging biktima ng sekswal na pang-aabuso. Ang kampanyang ito ay naging daan din sa pagpasa ng Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003 o ang RA 9208. Bukod pa doon ang Anti- Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) o ang RA 9262 naman na kampanya ay isa din sa mga sinusuportahan ng nasabing party-list na mismong nakatulong din hindi lamang ipaglaban ang kapakanan at karapatan ng mga kababaihan kundi pati din ng mga kabataan.

Sa pagsapit ng gabi, habang nababalutan ng kadiliman ang kalangitan. Habang napapalitan ang araw ng buwan. Habang tahimik na ang lahat. Tila may isang babaeng ng nagkaroon ng katahimikan, kapayapaan at kaligtasan sa kamay ng isang pangkat ng party-list na nakipaglaban at nakipagtanggol ng mga karapatan niya. Nawa’y magsilbing itong paalala na kinakailangan bigyan natin ng halaga ang kaligtasan at karapatan ng mga kababaihan.Tayo ay patuloy na tumindig bilang isang liwanag at pag-asa nila na siyang walang ibang hangad kundi ang pagkakaroon ng ligtas at mapayapang umaga habang sila ay nabubuhay sa mundong ito.

Inilikha ni

Charlene Mae Canja

Isinulat

“KINATATAKUTAN SA GITNA NG DIGMAAN”

Mahigit na sa isang taon ang nakalipas bago pumagitna ng walang babala ang lagim na dulot ng kasalukuyang pandemya. Bunga ng biglaang paghinto ng bawat galaw ng tao, tanging paggamit ng sosyal midya na ang naging sandalan ng karamihan. Subalit ang agarang transisyon na ito ay nagdala ng iba’t ibang epekto sa ating buhay dahil mistulang ito ay naging araw-araw ng pangangailangan. Sa pagtaas ng demand ng pagkakaroon ng social media accounts, napapanatili pa ba natin ang responsableng paggamit nito?

Tila noong nagsimula ang pandemyang ito, hindi lang pala 70% Ethyl Alcohol,facemask at faceshield na abiso ng Department of Health (DOH) ang kailangan natin upang mabuhay. Kahit hindi man tayo literal na mabubuhay ng social media subalit maari nito pakainin ang ating utak ng iba’t ibang mga impormasyon at balita. Lalo na ngayon gitna ng epidemya, na kung saan halos lahat ng miyembro ng pamilya ay nakatutok sa bawat gadget at panay paang pag share ng mga post sa kanyakanyang mga social media accounts. Ang pagkalulong sa pagbabahagi ng anumang post ay hindi masama ngunit isa itong daan sa pagkalat ng mga maling detalye lalo na kung hindi din natin alam ang katotohanan sa mga likod nito. Sa kasalukuyan, lalo palapit na ang eleksyon sa Mayo 2022, mistulang bumabaha ang ating ma social media accounts ng iba’t ibang post ukol sa mga kandidato na kumimpirma ng kanilang nais na tumakbo. Bilang mga Pilipino, likas na sa atin ang pagiging mga loyalista sa ating mga manok tuwing eleksyon. Tilang kulang na lang na mas handa pa tayo mamatay sang pagtatanggol sa kanila sang sa mamatay sa COVID-19. Bungad ng ganitong sitwasyon, ilang araw pa lang ang nakalipas ay marami na ang nag silibasan na mga maling akusasyon ukol sa mga kandidato sa social media. Sa kasamaang palad, halos karamihan nga ng mga Pilipino ay agarang naniniwala sa mga ganito, at sa comment section mo lahat

makikita ang katibayan ng mga ito. Kahit lahat ngayon ay naroon na sa #2022ElectionHype, aba hindi pa din magpapahuli ang isyu ukol sa paglaganap ng masamang epekto ng pagbabakuna. Tulad ng mga nagpapabilis daw ito ng ating kamatayan dahil mismong COVID-19 ang sinasaksak sa ating mga katawan at ang pagbabakuna ay naging daan upang mas lalo pa mapadami ang pagkahawa sa naturang virus. Ilan lamang ito sa mga maling impormasyon ukol sa pagbabakuna ngunit ang mas malala pa ang mga katagang ito ay mismo Nakita nga madla sa social media at sa isa pang lehitimong News and Media Company sa lungsod. Umani ito ng samu’t saring reaksyon sa tao na naging sanhi ng hindi pagkakaintindihan at pagdududa.

Bukod sa Facebook, Twitter at Instagram, tilang kasabay sa pagsisimula ng pandemya ay ipinanganak din ang TikTok. Isa ang Tiktok sa mga social media accounts na mayroong pinakamaraming users sa buong mundo na umabot na sa 1 bilyong katao na ayon sa pag-uulat ng CNBC. Waring malaki ang ambag nito sa tao ngayong mga panahon dahil bukod ito ay isang epektibong pampalipas oras, ito din ay nakakapag tanggal ng stress sa pangangatawan. Sa kabilang dako, napatunayan din na ang Tiktok ay isa mga daluyan ng paglaganap ng mga maling impormasyon sa mga

panahong ito. Mistulang inaabuso nito ng ibang tao sa pamamagitan ng paglabas ng mga maikling bidyo na napapaloob ng mga impormasyon na may layuning sumira at magbigay ng pagdududa sa mga manonood.

Hindi din natin maipagkakaila na marami din ang naging pakinabang ng social media sa panahong ito. Naging pangunahing pangangailangan ito ng mga estudyante ang sa ngayong panahon dahil sa online class. Ito ay nagsilbing kanilang midyum ng komunikasyon sa pag abot ng mensahe sa kanilang guro at mga kaklase. Naging pangunahing daan din ito ngayon sa pagkokontak ng ating mga mahal sa buhay na hindi makakauwi dahil sa pandemya. Ngunit mananatiling maayos ang epekto ng social media sa kasalukuyan kung nakaugat lang sa mabuting intensyon ang paggamit nito.

Malaki ang naging epekto ng pandemya sa ating buhay at isa na rito ang pagiging madepende sa social media lalo na sa pagsasaliksik ng wastong impormasyon. Sa isang tao na maari nating mabiktima ng maling impormasyon sa social media, magiging kapalit nito ang dignidad at mismo ang kanyang buhay. Sa patuloy na pag-akyat ng aktibong kaso ng COVID-19 sa kasalukuyan, tilang kumakarera din ang pagtaas ng tao na naniniwala sa maling impormasyon sa social media. Lagi natin tatandaan, na mas nakakatakot mamatay sa paraan na alam mo na mayroon kang pagkakataon na maiwasan ang kahihinatnan ng iyong pinili na sitwasyon.

Mayroon lamang dalawang uri ng tao sa mundong ito: ang manloloko at ang nagpapaloko. Bilang tao na mayroong sapat na talino at pang-unawa, mas mabilis natin malalaman kung totoo nga ba talaga ang bawat post na atin makikita sa social media. Marami na ang naging biktima ng maling impormasyon at ang social media ay isang pangunahing daluyan ng mga ito.Lalo na sa gitna tayo ng pandemya, hindi natin malalaman kung sino ba talaga ang ating paniniwalaan. Lahat ay pinapangunahan ng takot at pag-aalinlangan na kadalasang umuwi sa agarang paniniwala.

Inilikha ni Charlene Mae Canja

Isinulat ni Kirk Simoun Guimbal

ENTERTAINMENT

K I N D S K I N D S

OF FILIPINO VOTERS

Words By

Tricia Nicole G. Panzo

Illustration by Angelika Odango

THE “EDUCATED AND INVESTIGATIVE” VOTER

The educated people don’t only ponder once, but a hundred times before casting a ballot, as they say, “Think before you shade.” On the contrary, they look into the backgrounds of the candidates before anything else. They research, read, think, and make decisions.

They were known as the educated and investigating ones since they chose to see things for themselves rather than accept merry rumors that are not totally reliable. Well-informed voters appreciate sharing genuine information about better candidates on social media. They think that by enlightening the other voters who haven’t made decisions yet or who have been misled by the propaganda with the credible information they know, everyone will benefit.

THE “SILENT-BUT-SURE” VOTER

Voters who fit into this category are typically informed about current events and election discussions. They vote for their rights because they want to, not because they have to, and this is why they take elections seriously. As a matter of fact, they prefer to keep

their political opinions to themselves and avoid discussing them. They don’t take the accusations made against their preferred candidates seriously since they are aware that the information they have read about them is more trustworthy than public opinion. On election day, they know which candidates deserve their votes.

THE “FILIAL INFLUENCED” VOTER

These voters are certainly impacted by family views. Because they are committed to them, they are propelled by obedience to follow the candidates that their family has decided to support. Although they have a choice in who to vote for, they obediently follow their parents’ wishes despite having a choice. Filial voters emphasize their family over their political preferences.

“Siya lang ya botohon ko ky damo my ga suporta siya.”

Due to their propensity to follow trends, these voters are referred to as “Sunod sa Uso.” They don’t have their own favored choices, but the netizens’ pick is what they follow, which is not ideal, especially when it comes to voting.

People who fall under this kind of voters are merely influence junkies. Instead of spending time getting to know the candidates, they follow popular opinion. They have a false perception that it enhances their appearance when they simply accept other people’s choices.

THE “DAHIL MAS MALAKI YONG FUNDING” VOTER

THE “SUNOD SA USO” VOTER

“Kung sino lang da ang mas bakod ah, natamad nako bi manghibalo sang mga plataporma kag mag lantaw debate.”

“Grabe nag trending gid sa gali sa Twitter, siya nalang eh vote ko!”

The majority of voters in this category favor powerful and wealthy politicians. They allowed politicians to buy their votes, giving the impression that they do not value their integrity. Generally, these voters will not vote for a politician who offers them only a little “ayuda” and will instead vote for those that have more funding. When you ask them why they voted for their preferred candidates, they will most likely respond, “Dahil mas maliki yong funding.”

DEPARTMENTAL KAPALARAN FROM YOUR KUYAS & ATES

Illustrated by: Amelia Fatima Alaban

Departmental Kapalaran From Your Kuyas & Ates

Written by Tricia Nicole Panzo

Students exhale hopeful breaths, coming, in pressed uniforms, either into the halls of Colegio San Agustin— Bacolod or putting on anti-radiation glasses (again) to face the good ‘ol digital classrooms. Clearly, another daunting academic year ahead.

Old and new faces roll into their respective departments: CHAP (College of Health and Allied Professions), CASE (College of Arts, Sciences & Education), COE (College of Engineering), and CABECS (College of Accountancy, Business Education & Computer Studies) and there’s a buzz of questions in your head, trying to figure out what to do next, what to expect, but how to survive and stay?—that’s the very question you’ll have answers for from the graduates and those who powered through years in their respective departments.

“ CHAP programs will challenge your grit and passion. So, here are three things a CHAP student must prepare: their mind, body, and spirit. Equip your mind for brand new lessons and knowledge, expand your comprehension, and hone your critical thinking skills. Prepare your body for a strenuous journey and always acknowledge your health as one of your greatest weapons to achieve your dreams. Lastly, empower your spirit with undying valor for your dreams and surround yourself with positivity at all times. Always remind yourself why you’re here and what’s your purpose.”

- Kent James P. Zamora Fourth Year, BS Nursing CHAP Council VP for Internal Affairs

“ As a CASE student, before you begin the new semester, you should set some goals to work towards over the course of the year. Second, is to plan and budget your expenses to avoid spending too much money. And lastly, learn to love your course as it will be easier for you to navigate your personal and campus life.

- Katrina D. Leyva Graduate, BS Psychology

Former Writer at the Eagle Publication

“ For me, the top 3 things that will help my fellow CABECS students to become prepared for this upcoming semester are these 3Ps: passion, perseverance, and prayer. To be passionate in every step of the journey. To persevere despite odds may not always be in one’s favor. And most importantly to pray, for with it anything is possible.

- Yumi Trocio

Fourth Year, BS Accountancy NECONFED SC Media and Documentation

“ For a COE, here are three things to prepare my fellow schoolmates: physical, mental, and work ethic. As we shift back to face-toface classes, we will be exposed to health-related issues, hence, be physically fit and healthy. Next, is our mental or intellectual self to prepare us for a more active learning environment. Lastly, our work ethic, in order to be competent as we prepare ourselves to become future leaders of this country. With these three things, we can be equipped to be the best version of ourselves for this coming new academic year.”

- Ray Abuyen

Third Year, BS Mechanical Engineering

I hope you’ve taken note of the uniqueness and the common denominator of each. However, it wouldn’t matter as much if the hand-picked advice you chose is poorly implemented. Keep in mind that you need to “plan” how to equip yourself. For that, you need to sit down, think, and list your strengths and weaknesses, your schedules and to-do lists, your (SMART) goals and ambitions, and remind yourself to breathe. Take things, one step at a time. May you have a great year ahead full of lessons, fellow Augustinian!

CHAP claims championship title during College days ‘22

Written by Danibel Perez

The four college departments competed in various sports activities under the theme “CSA-B@60: Witnessing of Augustinian Values through Sports” during this year’s College Days. However, only one team emerged as the overall champion, with the College of Health and Allied Professions earning a total of 1260 points from head-to-head challenges and sports at this year’s Sports Fest.

The College of Accountancy, Business Education, and Computer Sciences came in second with 1,250 points. The College of Engineering ranks second with 1,170 points, followed by the College of Arts and Sciences, which is third with 630 points.

The College of Health and Allied Professions (CHAP) defeated the College of Engineering (COE) 6-4 to win the Men’s Modified Chess Game at the Colegio San Agustin-Bacolod Student Center on the first day of the College Days. CABECS (College of Accountancy, Business Education, and Computer Studies) came in third, with CASE (College of Arts, Sciences, and Education) rounding out the podium. Meanwhile, CASE eked out a 4-3 narrow victory over COE to win the Women’s Modified Chess Game Championship. The CHAP had to settle for bronze, while CABECS came in fourth.

During the Shooting Challenge Championship game, the COE tigers successfully preyed on a onepoint advantage over the CABECS lions, leaving the tigers with a 16-15 advantage. The CHAP serpents are in third place, followed by the CASE hornets, who are eliminated from the final round.

With seven points, the CASE department took first place in the

Male 3-point shoot-out finals. Meanwhile, the CABECS department came in second, with CHAP and COE coming in third and fourth, respectively.

In the Women’s Three-Point Shoot Out Game at Colegio San Agustin-Bacolod Open Court, the College of Arts, Science, and Education (CASE) launched an early onslaught. It erupted for seven points to win the championship. The tiebreaker match was held to break the deadlock between the College of Engineering (COE) and the College of Accountancy, Business Education, and Computer Sciences (CABECS). The COE then showed dominance to win silver with a 2-nil victory, leaving the CABECS in third place. After going scoreless in the elimination round, the College of Health and Allied Professions settled for fourth place.

The College of Accountancy, Business Education, and Computer Sciences (CABECS) snatched the championship title in the Women’s Basketball and Dribbling Game at the CSAB Open Court. The College of Health and Allied Professionals (CHAP) came in second, beating COE for third place. Meanwhile, CASE (College of Arts, Science, and Education) did not take part in the game.

The CHAP serpents sprayed spikes above the net in the Male’s Modified Park Volleyball Semis game to stomp the CABECS lions and secure a spot in the Finals. Meanwhile, the COE tigers overcame a solid offense to defeat the CASE hornets 2-nil in the second game, securing a spot in the Finals. The two winning teams will participate in the Men’s Modified Park Volleyball championships later this afternoon, and COE spiked the

game that placed CHAP in second place.

The CHAP lady serpents dominated the CABECS lioness in the Women’s Modified Park Volleyball Semis to claim a position in the Finals on the second day of the sports festival. Meanwhile, the COE tigress defeated the CASE hornets 2-nil to secure a place in the Finals. Later that afternoon, the two winning teams faced off in the finals of Women’s Modified Park Volleyball, and COE spiked the game, putting CHAP in second place.

The departments were rushing through the waves on the third day of the sports fest, with CABECS taking top place in Swimming Backstroke (Men), followed by COE, and CHAP. With a grab-and-take situation between the CABECS and CHAP departments, the games became fiercer. CHAP takes first place in the Men’s Freestyle, followed by CABECS and COE. Finally, the CABECS department dominated the final two games, taking first place in the men’s breaststroke and relay, followed by CHAP and COE, respectively.

Augustinians were finally able to begin a face-to-face celebration of College Days after two years of rejoicing behind screens. Although the celebration was held face to face, students adhered to health guidelines by wearing face masks and maintaining sufficient social distance.

Rev. Fr. Isabelo Carloman Jr., OSA, closed his statement during the last day of the sports fest by saying that College Days, not only fostered and harnessed the abilities and skills of students in sports but also counterbalanced the students’ intellectual and spiritual maturation.

C O L L E G E

Yulo hauls 5 Golds in SEA Games

Ace gymnast Carlos Edriel Yulo finished the 31st Southeast Asian Games in Hanoi, Vietnam, with a superb five-gold medal haul, saying that he would want to win all seven golds next time after taking silver in the other two events.

Yulo, despite being one of the world’s best athletes, refused to look beyond his competitors at the 31st Southeast Asian Games and approached the artistic gymnastics competition like it was the Olympics.

The 22-year-old added two additional gold medals to his previous collection of three, as well as a silver medal. He won the men’s artistic vault and horizontal bar events on the last day of the artistic gymnastics competition after previously winning the individual all-around, floor

exercise, and still rings competitions.

Yulo, who claimed the gold medal in the the men’s artistic vault at the 50th FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Championships in Japan last year, took 14.700 points to win the event against Thailand’s Tikumporn Surintornta (14.250) and another Filipino, Juancho Miguel Besana Eserio (14.017).

More so, he tied for the first place on the horizontal bar with Vietnam’s Dinh Phuong Thanh with 13.867 points, matching Filipino gymnast Rolando Albuera’s five-gold performance in Jakarta in 1979. In the parallel bars, meanwhile, he settled for silver with 14.900 points.

Seven gold medals, four silver medals, and one bronze medal were won by the entire artistic gymnastics team,

and Yulo will earn over P1.7 million in monetary incentives after his first-class performance in the SEA games which saw him wind up as the Philippines’ most bemedaled athlete.

Yulo outstripped a forgotten sports hero, gymnast Albuera, who won five gold medals in the 1979 Jakarta SEA Games, where the Philippines won 24 gold medals and finished fourth overall, and the most recent one, swimmer Eric Buhain, the former chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission, who won five gold medals in the 1991 Manila SEA Games.

Except for hosting the SEA Games in 2005 and 2019, the Philippines broke the 50-gold barrier for the first time since 1993, finishing fourth overall with 52 golds, 70 silvers, and 104 bronzes.

CSA-B dominates NOPSSCEA ‘22

Colegio San Agustin Bacolod takes dominance over the recent NOPSSCEA Competition as students bring honor to the Augustinian Community hoarding awards in the match.

Traditionally, sports are played chiefly with a rival with a player or a team, yet with COVID 19, the burning sport’s desire is not limited as NOPSSCEA Competition finds another approach showcasing the excellence of students in the sports field.

In basketball, instead of the ordinary five versus five participants, this year individual skills challenge is brought on the court; Augustinian Secondary Students shoot their chances as Benjamin Roy t. Guirnela III championed in shooting challenge and in Dribbling

& Agility Challenge together with John Gabriel A. Sitchon, Nash John G. Miranda, and Christian V. Jaro.

Additionally, gentlemen in tertiary level dribbled their way to success as Eugene O. Sixto, a 3rd Year BSBA Marketing Management calculated his way to winning first place in Slam Dunk Challenge, while Jan Kenneth V. Bautista and Debe C. Baliguas, both in 3rd year from BSBA Marketing Management, Kenan Reese P. Gonzales, also a 3rd Year from BS Hospitality Management and a Senior High School Grade 12 student Carlo Philippe E. Escaniel exhibited their coordination conquering third place in Dribbling & Agility Challenge.

Also, a high kick of recognition is given to the Basic Education

representatives in Online Taekwondo Competition, naming Joshua Emmanuel Deita and Thea Daniella Galila, Joshua in Male Secondary Division won Gold Medal in Speed Kicking and another Bronze Medal for Poomsae, and Thea as the finalist for the Poomsae Female Secondary Division.

Contemporary E-Sports Mobile Legend is also added in the competition of NOPSSCEA, El Aquila, the Mobile Legend Group of the secondary students consisting of Xian James Longno, Enzle Nicholas Santos, Mhike Jamandre, Jancy Alphard Pacete, Luwis Cito Peroy, Benedict Erick Rivera together with Coach Mr. Joey Suclan brought CSAB Community in triumph as they advanced in National Level.

Written by Jean Rose Oren

Written by Acel Jone Cayot

Photo courtesy of PSC-POC

GAME FACE. Carlos Yulo does one of his stunts during the 31st Southeast Asian Games.