The Guardian Publication Vol 23 Issue 1

The Guardian

Volume 23 Issue 1 September - December 2021

With integrity, we write.

The Official Publication of Rizal Technological University — Mandaluyong and Pasig Campus

FIRST TIME RTU HOLDS FIRST VIRTUAL GRADUATION written by Lovelyn Mangampo

June 23-25, 2021 – After a year of anticipation, the Rizal Technological University (RTU) batch of 2020 graduates finally marched towards their completion — through their screens — in the first-ever virtual graduation ceremony held via Zoom. continue to pg. 3

PH VACCINATION HITS 3M COVID IMMUNED written by Jerica Sartillo

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Features

guardian.rtu

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tgp@rtu.edu.ph

milestone of the country.

Since the initial event in March 2021, the vaccination rollout aimed for 58 million vaccinees by the end of the year. The Department

Newly proclaimed officials of Rizal Technological UniversitySupreme Student Council (RTU-SSC) formally pledged their duties and responsibilities during the virtual oath-taking ceremony held via Zoom conference, June 15, 2021.

For the academic year 2021-2022, the newly-elected student council leaders are President and Student Regent Jason Tolonghari and Vice President Noel Gabriel Abejar. College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology Student Council (CEATSC) Mc Glenn Malicdem and College of Education Student Council (CEDSC) Dave Baguinaon are introduced as the new board members for Pasig campus – alongside Institute of Physical Education Student Council (IPESC) Ramalla Mojica under Mandaluyong branch. Moreover, Ma. Anna Clarisse Villavicencio and Aldrin John Nicdao also joined as College of Arts and Sciences Student Council (CASSC) board officers for Mandaluyong and Pasig campus, respectively. continue to pg. 3

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Literary

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Shutterspeaks

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i n s i d e

Features

Palace, Manila.

“Conservative number pa po ito at inaasahan nating tataas pa ang bilang kapag dumating na ang numero mula sa mga lokal na pamahalaan at pribadong sektor,” Roque adhered the recent

NEW SSC OFFICERS TAKES OATH OF OFFICE written by CJ Pingad

Protected. Vaccinee receives his dose during the immunization rollout held by RTU. | Photo by Charlie Mae Cruz

July 8, 2021 — Former Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque announced the country’s achievement of the three million fully vaccinated citizens in the process during an online press briefing held at Malacañang

Jason Tolonghari

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NEWS

The Guardian

With integrity, we write.

Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

COMMUNITY PANTRY PH INSTITUTES SUSTAINABILITY PROJECT written by Jennica P. Maxian

Manila, Philippines ̶ Community Pantry PH initiators Ana Patricia and Jenny Non launched Adopt a Community Pantry Project (ACPP) to sustain the operation of 6,700 pantries established nationwide on August 23, 2021.

Due to several community pantries closing despite the large number of individuals queuing for essentials, Ana Patricia and Jenny organized Community Pantry PH to communicate and assist other organizers who encounter supply shortages.

“We saw many of them patiently falling in line every day, almost depending on us for their daily subsistence. It makes me wonder where they would get food for their family if we stop operating,” Yvonne Castro of North Commonwealth community pantry shared the struggle of their recipients.

According to Jenny Non, ACPP aimed to tap individuals, village associations, and other groups who can fund the resources needed for community pantries in a certain period.

The ACPP integrated effort via Google Map where locations of all pantries and resource persons like logistics and farmers are shown with specific legends or symbols to represent a pantry, trucking service, or a supplier. Social media pages of all community pantries were also displayed on the map.

Essentials. Community pantries aid food supply shortages among residents.

Photos courtesy: PHILSTAR Michael Varcas (top); Boy Santos (bottom)

Moreover, Community Pantry PH coordinated with donors and recipients and provided logistical and technical support in the go-to inquiry hub.

Meanwhile, the selected beneficiaries, namely the Tanging Yaman Foundation of Ateneo de Manila and the De La Salle Brothers Inc., are in charge of issuing official receipts and certificates of a tax deduction for donors who require it.

During a press conference,

RTU-PF WEBINAR HIGHLIGHTS LGBTQIA+ MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS written by Joyce Ann Estuaria

July 26, 2021 — In celebration of Pride month, Rizal Technological University Peer Facilitators (RTU-PF) discussed the practice of mental health hygiene and empowered the LGBTQIA+ community in the webinar entitled ‘LGBTQIA+ Supporting the Spectrum of Sexual and Gender Identities’ via Facebook Live.

The webinar aimed to raise awareness on LGBTQIA+ related concerns, existing both on and off campus, that touched more significant issues that the RTU community must address – such

as coming out as a community member.

“Alongside with mental health awareness is the support system because when experiencing this stress, anxiety, and depression.

Malaking tulong sa ating mental health ‘yong support system,” guest speaker Cyrus Florencio Bustos RN, LPT shared expertise and expressed support through their answers on one of the questions during the event.

Aside from the said concerns, the webinar also clearly emphasized the international

Ana Patricia Non urged well-off groups to help underprivileged communities, “Ang idea naman po ng community pantry [ay] magserve din sa labas ng communities natin ang kailangan i-tap natin ‘yong mga communities na medyo komportable para sila po ‘yong magstep-up para tulungan ‘yong communities na nangangailangan.”

Furthermore, former education secretary Bro. Armin Luistro praised the public’s human rights law that can apply to the LGBTQIA+ community and all humans regardless of their sexuality.

In addition to the guest speakers, other personalities also presented a meaningful discourse, namely: Vice President (VP) Leni Robredo, Senator Risa Hontiveros, Mr. Gay World Philippines 2019 First Runner-up Kevin Garcia, Media Personality Cha Roque, Engr. Jonathan Guthrie, and Tiktok Influencer Gab Campos.

“We need more of us to raise our voice for LGBTQIA+ rights, more of us to educate and empower others, more of us to make our spaces safer, and more responsive to the needs of our brothers and sisters,” outgoing VP Robredo encouraged the students to educate and stand up for the

overwhelming support after the ACPP was introduced. Also, Luistro expressed his hope of neutralizing the negativity and political divisions among Filipinos.

LGBTQIA+ community rights in her speech.

In launching the webinar, RTUPF cooperated with Emmanuelle Santiago and Mary Beth Miranda, current and former directors of University’s Guidance and Counseling Services Center.

Meanwhile, Concerned Students for Justice and Peace - RTU (CSJPRTU) also collaborated as the media sponsor of the event.

Ally! VP Robredo shares an inspiring message in support for the LGBTQIA+ community.| Photo from RTU-PF FB page

The Guardian With integrity, we write.

Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

CEGP APPEALS AGAINST ANTI-TERROR LAW

NEWS 3 FIRST TIME

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written by Lovelyn Mangampo

College Editors Guild of the Philippines (CEGP) commemorated the 35th EDSA People Power Revolution anniversary with their continued call to repeal the Anti-terrorism Law in a protest held outside the Department of National Defense (DND) in Quezon City, February 25, 2021.

The intercollegiate alliance emphasized the similarity of the law mentioned above to martial law. They claimed that it adds to intimidation, repression, oppression, militarization, harassment, and killings; thus scraping off Filipinos of their rights.

CEGP further compared the military-centered laws under the Duterte and Marcos regimes with how they similarly attack press freedom, shown through the ABSCBN shutdown last 2020. It led to the organization’s claim that the situation of campus journalism has not changed, considering the vulnerability of journalists to harassment.

Consequently, CEGP continued to fall victim to the

said threats due to reported illegal arrests of youth activists concerning the said law. Three months after the protest, the former group and other youth organizations filed complaints against the government for alleged harassment and redtagging of student journalists and youth activists.

Progressive groups from different universities also took their stand against the AntiTerror Law. On February 13, 2021 – Concerned Students for Justice and Peace-Rizal Technological University (CSJP-RTU) hosted a webinar to educate students about the matter and campaign for its discarding.

“Mahalaga ang papel nating mga kabataang estudyante sa pagtataguyod ng karapatangpantao sapagkat hindi hiwalay ang laban natin sa laban ng mga aping sektor sa ating lipunan. Hinihikayat namin, lalong lalo na ang buong komunidad ng RTU na tumindig, magsalita, at kumilos, sa lansangan man o online,” CSJP-

New SSC Officers Takes Oath of Office

“We are your voice, for so many times and during the election period; we often hear this phrase from our student leaders.

Yet this phrase cannot be born with student leaders alone: it must be a pledge to us for those who cannot speak up for themselves,” Tolonghari stated in his inaugural address after officially assuming office.

Furthermore, present in the ceremony are Vice President for Student Services (VPSS) Dr. Salvacion Pachejo; SSC Adviser and Director of Central for Student Affairs (CSA) Dr. Ma.

of Health later reported a close target number of 59 million people with a full dose on New Year’s Eve – continuously increasing by 63 million as of the current year’s March.

“Inaanyayahan pong magpabakuna lalo na ang mga matatanda at iyong may mga comorbidities upang magkaroon ng dagdag na proteksyon,” the ex-spokesperson encouraged the

Philippine Collegian Kenneth Gutlay

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Luisa Villanueva; Commission on Student Election (ComSElec’s) members; former SSC President and Student Regent Anne Maureen Estrabo, and other outgoing SSC officers.

“This is the time for you to show your competence, hardwork, dedication, and commitment to service. Patutunayan niyo sa lahat ng mga mag-aaral ng RTU na kayo ay magsisilbi para muna sa lahat bago para sa inyong mga sarili,” University President Dr. Ma. Eugenia Yangco gave light in her inspirational message through a pre-recorded speech.

PH Vaccination hits 3M DESPITE AREA

RTU Kurtson Roween Gamboa remarked.

Despite the backlash, Republic Act No. 11479 is still in effect. Malacañang, on the other hand, assured Filipinos that the law is only for terrorists and not dissenters, in a press conference last July 2020.

“Iyong mga hindi naman po mga terorista, huwag po kayong mag-alala, sapat-sapat po ang mga safeguards sa batas mismo at sa ating umiiral na rules of court para pangalagaan po ang karapatan ng kalayaan at karapatang mabuhay,” Former Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque stated.

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citizens to participate with the vaccination program against the COVID-19 Additionally, the Roque released the vaccination’s priority list that compromised the vulnerable sectors in line with Coronavirus exposure, such as the senior citizens, frontliners, essential workers, government employees, and indigent residents.

Subsequently, additional board members took their oaths last January 6, namely: Pasig Campus Central Student Council (PCCSC) Maria Esther Repizo; CEATSC-Mandaluyong Arnel Rangasa; and CEATSCMandaluyong Raslany Mambuay.

Meanwhile, Secretary-General Jonina F. De Leon and Deputy Secretary-General Mark Rafael Non lastly claimed their official position on February 3.

On the following occurence, Anne Margarette Zaragoza appointed as a replacement to former CASSC-Pasig Board Member Nicdao last April 17.

Rizal Technological University - Disaster Risk Reduction Management (RTU-DRRM) associated with the Mandavax team began the vaccination rollout on August 3, held at the RTU Gymnasium. Mandaluyong Mayor Menchie Abalos arrived during the vaccination process along with the University administrators and administered the hundreds of COVID-19 vaccine shots last August 4.

Photo courtesy: Supreme Student Council FB page

Colleges were divided into batches for the three-day event, respectively splitting schedules into morning and afternoon sessions. College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), College of Education (CED), and Institute of Physical Education (IPE) were assigned on the first day; College of Engineering, Architecture, and Technology on the second day; and College of Business and Entrepreneurial Technology (CBET) on the last day.

“Sentimental ang pagkakataong katulad ng ganitong pagdiriwang na hindi tayo makapaghahatid ng personal na pagbati sa inyo, ngunit makakaasa po kayong ang aming kagalakan at suporta ay tumatawid nang birtwal patungo sa inyo pong mga tahanan. Walang anumang distansya ang maaaring harangin ng pinagpala,” University President Dr. Ma. Eugenia Yangco, on her opening remarks, expressed her sentiments regarding the graduation conflicts brought by the pandemic.

Moreover, the event also celebrated academic excellence with the honorable graduates of the batch – featuring prerecorded speeches from the Magna Cum Laude Christine Joy Bautista and the most outstanding student awardee, Glydel Joy Princessa.

“Maaaring maraming bagay at mga plano ang nabago at mababago pa habang patuloy tayong naglalakbay. Ngunit ano pa mang pagbabago ang ating maranasan, isang bagay lang ang sigurado: nandoon pa rin ang ating kinabukasan at darating ito sa atin,” Princessa articulated the struggles of the graduating students amidst the pandemic during her speech.

Furthermore, CAS organized the 49th commencement exercises with the theme, “Matatag na Kalooban at Matalinong Pagpapasya Tungo sa Kaligtasan at Kaunlaran.” Also present in the event were the Professors, Deans, Board of Regent members, volunteers, RTU key officials, and Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto.

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OPINION

The Guardian

With integrity, we write.

Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

Youth Voters’ InFLuence on Democracy: A Reset, not Another Tolerance EDITORIAL

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rguably, a new generation of voters’ preference is influenced by various factors – weak party system, disinformation, dynastic rule history, and preponderance of media celebrities, you name it. Allowing the youth to widen their understanding of the social dilemmas reaps informed, unbiased, and credible choices. Regardless of the polarized political views among generations, young electors of today must ensure that their choices are established on the basis of impartiality and legitimacy. Otherwise, the longfought democracy would be on the brink of slump, which would sustain the proliferation of disinformation and political propaganda. The significance of the the recent year’s election lies in what type of government will spearhead the nation. Hence, the youth have a critical opportunity to revitalize the Philippine political culture — where apoliticism thrives for generations due to the corrupt brand of governance. By voting competent leaders, Filipino youth can change the connotation about politics being bad and toxic. It can allow the vested power to be optimized, so that good governance shall prevail. The chance to reset the disadvantageous structure

Throughout history, Filipino youth have massively influenced the order of Philippine democracy. In the upcoming election of 2022, they can either rebrand or magnify this status for the next six years.

As of October 2021, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) reveals that among the projected 65 million local voters, 52% comprise their vote. It is categorized as the electorate aging between 18 to 30 years old – reaching to more than 32 million count.

While it is definite that the youth will not vote in a block, past elections proved that their preference translates to the winnability of a candidate.

Thus, youth have the capacity to either perpetuate traditional politicians or replace them with competent leaders in pursuit of a transformative change — crucial in determining the fate of the Philippine socio-political landscape.

of power will be deliberated in the cornerstone of democratic ideas. A gradual takeover of politics founded on integrity and transparency will be on hand.

Moreover, the youth vote’s impact could rightfully address the existential threats to democracy – case in point: the Anti-Terror Law of 2020. Its recent imposition undermines the constitutionallyprotected rights to political expression and dissent, by equating activism with terrorism.

It has been hotly debated since its enactment. Different civil groups, including youth organizations, called for its abolition. In the Philippines, distinguishing the two is often met with confusion.

To make things vivid, activism upholds the value of democracy in its lawful practice while terrorism is the utilization of force and violence aimed to overthrow the government. The distinction? The means to attain the goal. For the youth, understanding these two ideologies is critical in enthroning legislators who will genuinely champion the constitutional rights of the Filipino people. As the young generation becomes more socially and politically aware, activism is accounted dissimilar from terrorism.

It will never be a crime to practice one’s democratic rights. To speak up for the marginalized and the oppressed. To exercise this right with respect to human rights and the law. Youth are the inheritors of the nation’s dilemmas. Hence, they

must foster engagement on sociopolitical issues and provide them the opportunity to resolve these fiascos.

On the flip side, discussing political matters in a typical Filipino home is often a struggle and it is a continuous challenge to redirect such undemocratic practice.

One big hindrance, fanaticism.

Unfortunately, it is engraved in the Filipino political culture.

Loyalty to a politician is apparent in a country where the brand of governance is associated with political parties. The same reason why some youth are convinced to vote for a candidate despite all the recurrent accusations, criminal conviction, and serious underperformance in the line of public service. Nevertheless, countering these demands establishing a safe and inclusive space where members of the family practice healthy conversation, by taking responsibility for their words and behaviors and centering the topic in the understanding of their rights. It is certainly a difficult task to accomplish, especially for a youth who grew up being silent of one’s disposition, as it is regarded as a form of discourtesy. In the same fashion, the youth shall be encouraged to think critically and develop civic-consciousness inside the premises of the school.

Educators shall demonstrate impartiality in teaching history, society, and politics — hampering the spread of disinformation. For

the same reason that the youth are capable of becoming the debunkers – or the peddlers of fake news themselves – which would significantly reflect the voters’ preferences come election.

As it stands, the facets of Philippine democracy are immensely dependent on the election turnout.

Statistically speaking, the youth are the real gamers. It is no brainer why candidates are on their mission to gain their trust and pursue a higher chance to win the election. Even the highest seats in the government are pestered by mere pawns meant to interrupt the power of democracy.

Eradicating the culture of enablers equates to voting people with a genuine heart to serve the public, regardless of political affiliations.

Now is the time to allow the youth to consider voting candidates in the aspect of competency - through scrutinizing their platforms, track records, and leadership skills; and not by the weight of their surnames or the vastness of their popularity. The young generation of voters must think thorough on their choices, considering who are most qualified, competent, as well as their practicing principle. The right to suffrage is a mandate of the Constitution and it is one of the avenues to participate in democracy.

By all means, election is a weapon for the youth to uplift the democracy in the Philippines, the liberty that they must protect at all cost.

OPINION 5

The Guardian With integrity, we write.

Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

CONSIDER THE ONLINE CLASS STRUGGLE

VIRTUTES ILLUMINANS Mycah Andrea Tusi mycahtusi@gmail.com

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t has already been almost a couple of years since the change in how our societies function began. Despite that, it still seems like just recently, we can still go out of the comfort of our homes without fear and confidently strive towards our respective destinations. We can vividly remember how we may ride public transportations full of passengers and squeeze ourselves to sit on that small available space - battling the weather’s heat and heavy traffic on our way to work or school. But even with that hassle, we were used to it.

Then came the community quarantine that caught us off guard, changing our everyday lives to a full 180°. And of course, that includes how we attend our classes. The schools switched to online platforms as campuses closed so the students could continue their studies despite the lockdown… but it came with many struggles that are sometimes overlooked.

Yes, many of us have smartphones or computers, whether desktop or laptop. But that does not mean that all of us do. Some of us still use keypad phones because we

can’t afford smart devices, especially in this pandemic where many businesses closed and numerous people lost their jobs. Also, not all of us have our Wi-Fi connections at home and are forced to buy load for mobile data every now and then.

And to some, these are luxuries they can’t even dream of affording without sacrifices.

Also, because many have their family breadwinners lost occupations and some became sick. Some students are forced to step up and help by applying for a job. And so they have less time to allot for studying as they take on heavier responsibilities than just washing the dishes and sweeping the floor.

Furthermore, we live in different places. Some of us are in cities, while others opted to be in their provinces as they feel a lot safer there from the Covid threat. Each of us experiences different weather everyday that may affect our internet signals. And not all internet providers have the same connection speed. Our electricity providers also have different power interruption schedules. A problem for mobile data users is that not all places have good reception, even when the sky is clear. Having

SYLPH

Ryan Emmanuel Reyes reyes.ryanemmanuel@gmail.com

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id you know that your problems are not solely because of your personal decisions? You wake up as early as four a.m. to prepare and not be late for work, yet traffic congestion is along your way. And because of that, you are 30 minutes late for your work.

Later, you feel irritated and angry because you still have to endure the consequences of being late to work after all of your efforts to wake up early.

The next day, you wanted to be on time. Instead of waking up at four a.m., you get off your bed at three to do your morning routine and prepare for work. Unfortunately, the same thing happened again. This time, you are questioning why this kind of situation kept repeating. You are still late even though you’ve done your best not to be late. You’ve found out that there is road maintenance on your route due to an accident a week

synchronous classes everyday can be quite a hurdle for some of us. Too many factors can affect our ability to attend our classes properly.

Adjusting to an online class setup is already hard enough. Not many of us have the attention timespan to sit in front of the screen for three hours straight for one subject and then have another threehour class. We know something is missing even if we see and hear our teachers or professors on the screen teaching the lesson. A unique connection or communication happens when we still have face to face-to-face classes that make our attention time span longer. And it only makes it worse when our connection becomes poor, and you hear choppy sentences that make it hard for us to understand.

Additionally, and in all honesty, our homes are not the best learning environment. Not all of us are fast learners, and some of us need peace in order to study properly.

When we still go to our school and have our lessons in classrooms and laboratories, we have a more controlled environment for learning that minimizes distractions and lets us focus on just studying. But we

are not students at our houses. We are at foremost, sons and daughters - brothers and sisters. Sometimes, we will be told to do chores even amidst our synchronous classes. We would be told to teach our younger siblings and do their modules while our activities and assignments were still undone. The noise from the simultaneous synchronous classes our siblings and we attend it more challenging to focus. Sometimes we would hear noises from the neighbor, like a hammer banging the wall as they fix something or the sound of their televisions turned on.

And with the factors said above, those are not all of it. The online class setup provides a less controlled learning environment and has a lot of aspects that can be detrimental, especially to those who are less privileged. So, please consider the current circumstances before ignoring your classmates or students asking questions in your group chats or personal message. Provide a bit more leniency because they may be experiencing something that we aren’t.

SOCIAL SENSIBILITY MAKES RESPONSIBLE SOCIETY

ago. Despite seeking an alternative route to take, you know that the usual route is the only way for you to go to your work. Sadly, you have no choice but to wake up earlier than three a.m. until the road maintenance has been fixed or to find an apartment near your workplace as an alternative.

Most of the time, we are dealing with such problems because we think that there is something wrong with ourselves, but we don’t realize that different societal problems are the factors affecting our daily lives.

Consequently, self-centeredness has been our resort for us to be able to survive. With this, we create biased perspectives depending on what we have been experiencing for being self-centered. We chose not to engage ourselves in different societal issues because dealing with them is complicated. As I have observed, many individuals don’t mind talking about societal issues like teenage pregnancy, corruption, fake news,

poverty, etc. They are busy minding their own business to earn money and to strive for their dreams.

In education, our Social Studies teachers open up our minds to the historical and modern social issues for us to become patriotic and responsible citizens. But, most of the students are not interested in this subject. Why? Our parents taught us to focus on subjects like English, Math, and Science. They believe that these subjects will help us to become successful and attain a high-paying profession, thus taking our family out of poverty. With this mindset, most students typically don’t have time to involve themselves in different social problems and decline to manifest the characteristics of being socially sensible citizens because most people want to have a glamorous and extravagant life.

As individuals, we must care to know the different societal problems to engage ourselves to correct the

wrongdoings of the past and present generations in creating solutions through ourselves. During this time, when information was bombarded, fake news was born to misinform us. And if we dare to take care of this issue, we can learn how to filter, fact-check, investigate, and debunk other fake news. However, if we don’t care about this issue, it may lead to misinformation that would create conflict in society and eventually affect you. If someone talks behind your back and spreads false information about you because individuals in our community are used to believing in fake news, it puts a strain on your reputation.

If everyone becomes socially sensible citizens, we will be responsible for our actions. If there are changes in our society, it should be us who must make positive changes for peaceful and accountable future citizens.

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OPINION

The Guardian

With integrity, we write.

Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

ABORTION ISN’T KILLING A KID — IT’S SAVING ONE

LIGAYA PARAISO

Lovelyn Mangampo lovelynmangampo1@gmail.com

M

otherhood scares the hell out of me.

Growing up in a Christian family, I was well aware of Jesus and how he was conceived — how Mary got pregnant at a young age without even having any sexual contact, thus, making her the virgin Mary. That story haunted me my whole teenage years.

The moment I stepped into puberty, I checked my monthly period just to make sure I didn’t get pregnant even by a holy spirit. I used to think that it was due to my fear of miracles. Turns out, it was the pregnancy itself that terrifies me.

It was not all physical. It was not for the reason that my vagina will tear up and bleed nonstop just so a human being will be brought out to this world — the fear comes from the thought that having a potential life inside of me will be the end of me. I’m scared because I know that I wouldn’t want it, but there will be no escape route once I have it.

I thought women do not have a choice. The truth is, we do and we should! Motherhood should be fun, so when a woman feels heavy and forced to take that path, she should

have the choice not to settle. She should have the option to abort it.

Lucky for other countries, women can undergo safe and legal abortions. For the Philippines, the law still favors the pro-life advocates and is still not taking action towards decriminalizing it. It jails Filipino women in a highly stigmatized society which snatches them the freedom for a harmless decision over their bodies.

The reason that I mainly see as to why pro-lifers strongly oppose abortion is that it murders. They believe that once an egg is fertilized, it is already the start of life. Yes, they agree with the “your body, your choice,” but it’s because they think there’s already a body inside of you that has the right to decide for its own life.

Here’s the truth: that little fertilized egg inside a pregnant woman can’t decide for itself because it doesn’t even have a brain to begin with! Medical data indicates that fetuses before 21 weeks cannot live unsupported, even with a respirator. They can’t feel pain until at least 24 weeks because they’re yet to have the necessary brain connections. Hence, we can conclude

CURAR ALA GENTE Jan Michael Silot silotjanmichael@gmail.com

W

ork while studying.

Maybe this phrase already crossed your mind, thinking of getting a job while learning because who the heck on Earth does not want to earn an income, right? It already crossed my mind too, and I’ve been battling this idea throughout my college years.

However, I encountered many realizations that convinced me to wait patiently until graduation.

This is just a quick disclaimer.

This column has no intention of invalidating people, especially working students. In fact, I salute their bravery in facing the real world at a young age. We have our own journey with our lives, making us unique! So never compare yourself to others.

Some really need to work due to many personal reasons. But for those who can continue their study without requiring themselves to be an employee – you’re lucky. Savor your privilege; it’s a piece of advice I could give you from this column.

But for some reason that you still insist on seeking a job, then I might atleast show some situations you may encounter when working and studying simultanously. First, the new

that an egg is not yet a kid, and getting rid of it will never be murder.

According to Jill Filipovic, lawyer and author of the H-Spot: The Feminist Pursuit of Happiness, “There has been no concerted anti-abortion effort to demand research funding into why all of these fertilized eggs die, or to find a cure. Perhaps that’s because even the most active antiabortion advocates know the truth is that a fertilized egg is not the same as a three-year-old, and they do not genuinely believe that it has the same right to life.”

In addition, despite the hard enforcement and societal pressure, some women will still risk their lives in underground abortion clinics. Due to the stigma stuck on it, there is little to no knowledge on abortion, and services are most likely performed in unsanitary conditions and with outdated techniques. Based on reports, over 1,000 people die from abortion complications, contributing to the country’s high maternal mortality rate.

There are lots of reasons women refuse to keep a conceived child.

Aside from rape victims and those with medical complications, some women are aware that they are

financially, mentally, emotionally, and even physically unable to bear a child. And when they are forced to keep one due to the lack of access to other options, they might only raise an unwanted child whose support is not given. Some might be given to adoption centers, but what future does it ensure human beings?

If criminalizing abortion puts more lives at risk, and you’re still prolife, then whose life are you actually protecting?

Of course, legalizing it will also come with a responsibility. Having access to safer abortion should not be an excuse to engage in unprotected sex. That is why it is way more effective if proper sex education in school is implemented so Filipinos, especially the youth, will be more knowledgeable.

There are still a lot of sex matters that go unresolved because society is unwilling to talk about them. But if you look closely into these issues, you will realize that they make sense if you start perceiving outside the patriarchal view. So as for abortion, it’s just really letting another person have a decision for their own because, hey, who are we to judge?

WHY MUST NOT HURRY?

AN EPITOME OF BEING A WORKING STUDENT

environment and routine might be complicated for you. Second is the new priorities and responsibilities; by now, having a new job belongs to your top priorities. Moreover, this decision in your life requires many sacrifices.

It includes reducing quality time with yourself, family, friends, and/or partner because your work and sleep will consume your day.

In addition, the risk of not maintaining the grades has a higher possibility. Some working students still managed to be at the top, but this does not apply to all. Lastly, your job may become a threat to your health and well-being. In most cases, sleep deprivation is a problem for every working student.

Subsequently, sleep deprivation may cause many complications like inability to concentrate, irritability, mood swings, etc. In severe cases, it may cause insomnia and other mental health problems. According to Dr. Olson of Mayo Clinic, lack of sleep can severely impact your immune system.

It can also affect how quickly you recover if you become ill.

Also, mental health might compromise. The pressure from your boss and stress may overwhelm you.

Meanwhile, ‘job burnout’ is possible

to experience from constant stress, overload of extreme activities, and lack of support. According to Mayo Clinic, job burnout is a state of physical or emotional exhaustion, a specific type of work-related stress.

Whatever the cause, it can impact both your physical and mental health.

Being a working student may not be easy, but their job finances their needs. It helps and gives hope to many students to continue. All their hardship is paid off, and it must be because these hopeful students deserve so much. And who said the money cannot make you happy? In my experience, it’s not 100% true.

Most of our problems can be solved by cash, and you can’t deny it. Also, spoil yourself! Treating yourself in moderation can help relieve your stress and other burdens in your mind. But remember that genuine relationships with people cannot be sold.

To sum up, we must not hurry to get a job while studying as much as possible. Because the years of being a college student (approximately 4-6 years) are terribly short compared to being an employee (around 40 years). You might be jealous of your friend who earns 20,000 pesos worth

of salary, but being a student alone doesn’t make you worth less. We’re in our respective situations. As for them, some just needed to work to aid their financial crisis during the pandemic.

Primarily, we have different lives and situations that we face each day. Life’s not a race. You can be successful and/or get your dream job at any milestone in your life.

There is no definite time measure for everything. It’s in our fate – it’s in the hands of our Creator. Let Him do and give you what you really need at the right place and time.

All you have to do is focus on your study and protect yourself from the toxicity and stress. Sit back and relax. Take care of your mental health.

And prepare yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally for the real world after you graduate.

A bestfriend of mine, Jaycee, a second year Aviation Logistics student and an employee at the BPO industry shared his words he could recommend to be a working student, “Hindi, gawing relihiyon ang dedma at habang kaya pang-tiisin ang naririnig sa iba, ipagpatuloy ang pag-aaral at bumawi sa sarili kapag nakapagtapos at makapagpundar sa pamilya at sarili… Laban! Huminga at magpahinga.”

OPINION 7

The Guardian With integrity, we write.

Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

HARSH REALITY OF HAVING CHILDREN

ARTEMIS

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Romieleth Espillardo espillardo.r@gmail.com

hat do you think is the reason why people decide to have children?

Maybe some of the things that come into your mind are the following. First, to have a secure future. It is a common ideology that you have someone who will support you during the retirement age when you have children. Maybe, having children gives them a sense of validation and also boosts their pride.

Some people also want to have a kid so that they can fulfill their unaccomplished dreams. Or, it could just be simply due to the pressure that they experience from society.

So, do you want to know what the answer should be to that question? None of the above. With

all the things that I mentioned, none of them makes sense. Unfortunately, most of the current parents or parents-to-be nowadays can’t swallow this hard pill. Each statement contains a negative point that we should acknowledge.

“A child is born [as] their own person; with their own destiny; with their own desires, needs, feelings, thoughts... Everything,” as Teal Swan remarked.

Filipino roots have embedded the culture of “extended families.”

It may look good on the surface, but it still has a toxic implication.

As aforementioned earlier, it is not rare to hear that a child is equal to a retirement plan. If you can’t ensure a good future for yourself, why would you even want to bear offspring? Just to pass the burden that you can’t do

on your own?

This also applies to those parents who force their children to pursue a career path that they personally dreamed of. Referencing above, it is not correct nor fair to impel your kid to conform to do the things that you individually desire. It does not matter if you are the parent, this fact does not make you entitled to treat your child like an understudy to your theater play that you once failed to star in. Remember, having children is a responsibility, not an investment.

Furthermore, it should be kept in mind that bearing a child will NEVER solve any trauma or emotional problem that someone has. May it be the lack of one’s value, validation, or self-worth; these are entirely your own problem. It does not need to be addressed and settled by someone

WOMEN SUPPORT WOMEN EXCEPT

MAGDALENA

Mary Belle Radam marybelleradam@gmail.com

T

he shade of pink becomes more vivid among women as they progress against the systematic limitation around their freedom and autonomy. However, there are still circumstances that women tend to be selective to whom they will empower and support – excluding trans women.

The selective empowerment was seen in 2012. Miriam Quiambao, 1999 Miss Universe (Miss U) first runnerup, expressed her disagreement via Twitter regarding Jenna Talackova as a transgender Canadian contestant for Miss U. She claimed that the prestigious beauty competition was exclusive to natural-born women – even questioning the ‘essence of a woman’ if trans women came in the narratives.

From the issue on Talackova, there seems to be a barrier that limits trans women. It led me to the question of what makes ciswomen – women whose assigned sex is female at birth — different from trans women. Is it because they

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editorial board and staff

can give birth? Depending on the womb to define a woman is outdated (as discussed in my column in the last Regular Issue). We have been breaking the concept of women’s worth based on child-bearing and female genitalia among natural-born ladies. Advocates also took years of redefining what makes a woman woman – including trans women in the description.

Excluding trans women is one of the examples of selective women empowerment. It heavily affected them by losing their sense of belongingness as females and seeing themselves as outcasts because they were not accepted to their comfortable gender. Also, the continuous misidentification and lack of attention from the public lose a safe space for their identity.

“I am not free while any woman is unfree, even when her shackles are very different from my own” Taken from Audre Lorde, our feminine community can’t be considered entirely liberated as long as marginalized members are

else.

After all, only a very few from the previous generations had understood the value of a child. The ideologies above are not yet all of the negative reasons for the topic of being a parent. However, these points should be abolished sooner or later. I hope that we will be one of the pioneers in advocating a healthy relationship with children. Instead of viewing them as someone with a monetary value, cherish and guide them genuinely as they live in this world. And of course, it also wouldn’t hurt if you do not want to have one.

It’s your own life, thus you make your own decisions. Live within your means, attain what you can sustain.

left behind. If we want to promote empowerment and stand up for our liberation, we must include all women. It means recognizing trans women, alongside women of color, for their hardships towards fighting for their rights and finding their safe space in society. Setting aside their experiences makes us accomplices in harming them further and defeats our movement’s purpose.

Let’s unlearn the elements of bias, prejudices, and white-cis priviledges – and raise our feminist advocacy through an intersectional approach.

As of now, the trans women community currently paved their recognition in the Philippines.

Geraldine Roman settled her position in the House of the Representatives, making her the first transgender lawmaker in the Philippines. She continued her advocacy for the welfare of war veterans as Veteran Affairs and Welfare Committee Chairperson.

Meanwhile, the Society of Transsexual Women of the Philippines (STRAP) continued to

Editor-in-Chief Jan Michael Silot Associate Editor Mary Belle Radam Managing Editor Mark Joseph Garcia News Editor Lovelyn Mangampo Sports Editor Ryan Emmanuel Reyes Features Editor Romieleth Espillardo Chief Photojournalist Lemmy Delos Reyes Arts and Designs Director Erica Mae Vidal Literary Specialist Mycah Andrea Tusi Circulation Manager/Photojournalist Charlie Mae Cruz Pasig Coordinator/Sports Staff Justine Rose Generato

emphasize education on transgender needs, issues, and concerns, to be adequately understood and addressed. With our support, we could further improve their progress and make more significant impacts towards regaining their place in the community to be accepted and properly acknowledged.

Like any other community, the women’s consists of a unique identity spectrum that needs protection and empowerment. It then forms a sense of unified sorority rather than splitting it into factions caused by biases and discriminations, which further us away from our goal in the movement. Without the other feminine spectrum, we cannot resist and destroy the patriarchy, capitalism, white supremacy, and other systematic oppression.

Imagine the power we are capable of if we fight side by side with the trans, black, and brown women – joining forces under one common goal and free of discrimination.

News Staff: Jennica Maxian, Joyce Ann Brin Estuaria Sports Staff: Marjorie Tuno, Nathalia Ibanez Features Staff: Rona Jane Germano, Jamille Jane Dipol, John Paul Torrecampo, Allysa Maxine De Asis Photojourn Staff: Daksh Neil Castillo, John Lloyd Borromeo, Jovelyn Mirandilla Layout Staff: Jesse Viray

Adviser: Prof. Paolo Gaspar

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Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

written by Mycah Andrea Tusi & Romieleth Espillardo

O

vershadowing the Earth, fear of physical contact with the outside world emerged. An eerie silence prowls the empty streets, and enforced isolation teaches us just how much we need each other. Grim Reaper works overtime as a surge of listed names to fetch from the world of the living come one after another. A simple structured virus destroys our carefully crafted illusion of predictable security in the new world. We watch how the well-oiled gears of our elaborate world grind to a shuddering pause.

Taken by surprise by an unexpected opponent, we were knocked down on the ground – too shocked by how fast it all happened. And with that, we weren’t able to pick up ourselves immediately. We’ve woken up on a planet that we believed belonged to us. However, it has now proven that we are nothing but easily threatened beings. A new hushed landscape emerged as we contained ourselves in the safety box of our homes.

This situation challenged countries all over the world.

Everyone was compelled in prescribing measures to spring their defenses up. Some troops successfully safeguarded their realms while some struggled to prevent the virus’ breach.

Philippines and Vietnam: the two neighboring countries in Southeast Asia parallelled in terms of geography, population,

and economic status. As much as these two share similarities in various aspects, the COVID-19 pandemic has proven which country has the edge in terms of health care and safety interventions.

PHILIPPINES’ RETALIATION AGAINST THE PANDEMIC Everyone thought that the year 2020 would be a blast. Little did we know, it is just like Pandora’s box waiting to be mischievously unfolded. The year was welcomed with the flashing news of the very first Novel Coronavirus outbreak which originated from Wuhan, China. However, this information was deemed insufficient for the Philippines to impose a travel ban.

Instead, the Department of Health (DOH) resorted to implementing ‘stricter’ checks on all tourists arriving in the country.

On January 23, 2020, the government temporarily ceased receiving flights from Wuhan.

Nearly 500 Chinese tourists were also ordered to be brought back to their home province. After only four days, the suspected Coronavirus cases in the country rose to a count of 14. This signaled DOH to assemble the first InterAgency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases Resolutions.

When the 30th day of January 2020 came, a 38-yearold Chinese woman from Wuhan was confirmed as the very first Coronavirus patient in the country. The government established a full force travel ban

from Wuhan in accordance with the reported case. Little by little, the epidemic began creeping in. February 2 was marked by the COVID-19 first fatality in the nation.

With this, President Duterte offered comfort through his remarks in a press briefing, “Let’s start with narratives by saying that everything is well in the country, that there’s nothing really to be extra scared of the coronavirus thing.”

As the terror of the COVID-19 exploded globally, crossing the borders of Mainland China, both neighboring and distant countries’ governments responded in order to keep their respective domains as safe as they could. The Philippine government, as early as March 16, 2020, had the initiative to implement a lockdown in major cities and provinces. However, these cities’ responses have been fraught with incompetence and lack of preparation for the normal citizens’ daily necessities in the long run.

Strict compliance with the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) is ordered for all citizens, except for frontline workers.

This response was a decidedly militaristic approach– curfews, harsh penalties for being outside, and a population descending into hunger as they cannot make a living in these new conditions they were harshly thrown into.

From here on, several revisions of quarantine types were implemented.

LEGACY OF VIETNAM’S SWIFT RESPONSES Sharing a 1,450-kilometer land border with China, Vietnam’s successful COVID-19 response has drawn international attention because of its early and proactive response. The country has heavily invested in its healthcare system since the 1990s. It has a successful history of managing pandemics such as the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), Zika, Ebola, and the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). Vietnam had already laid out a long-term plan to be able to cope with public health emergencies. It has demonstrated that ‘preparedness’ is the crucial ingredient to deal with epidemics or pandemics to protect the population and secure public health.

As early as January 2020, Vietnam conducted its first risk assessment immediately after identifying a cluster of cases of ‘severe pneumonia with unknown etiology’ in Wuhan, China. When the first two COVID-19 cases were confirmed in Vietnam in the second half of that same month, the government started to put precautionary measures into effect by strengthening entry-screening measures and extending the Tết (Lunar New Year) holiday for schools.

Right after the number of cases rose to more than 10 and a case had been detected in a village near the capital city, the country implemented a threeweek quarantine for villages with

FEATURES 9

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Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

Photo sources: Getty Images, Philippine Red Cross, Reuters, Hau Dinh (AP Images), Jiji Press

confirmed cases. Followed by the closing of borders are the halting of flights, and suspending Visa issuing from China.

By February 2020, Vietnam had a total of 16 confirmed cases.

The following reports prompted the government to implement mandatory testing and quarantine for all the travelers coming from areas with COVID-19. Furthermore, Deputy Prime Minister Vũ Đức Đam enunciated that fighting the Novel Coronavirus epidemic is the top task as he administered a board of committees accountable for the pandemic’s regulation.

While there was never a nationwide lockdown, some restrictive physical distancing measures were implemented.

Such measures were so successful that, by early May 2020, following two weeks without

a locally confirmed case, schools and businesses resumed their operations, and people could return to regular routines.

OUTCOME OF IMMEDIATE DISPARITY To an ordinary citizen, the COVID-19 pandemic seems to be a black swan event: one that is rare and not so likely to happen.

Yet, for the experts, it was defined as a pink flamingo event: something common and bound to arise. Epidemiologists and virologists were quick to deduce that there will be a more lethal and contagious virus since the SARS pandemic in 2003.

Yet, some countries are deemed unprepared as the harsh disease paved its way. The Philippines is not an exception to

this. In the discussions above, the reluctant actions of Vietnam gave them considerable resistance to COVID-19. Even from the time when they still didn’t have any cases, utmost provisions for the foreseeable disaster have already been established. As for the Philippines, it took quite some time to develop safety measures for the novel and unfamiliar virus.

Taken from comparing two Southeast countries, the unexpected and evitable crises like the COVID-19 outbreak determined the competency and efficient leadership of the administration. How politicians strategize effective pandemic responses is one of their credentials to their proficiency to establish a progressive country in the future. As for the citizens’ frameworks and actions against

the pandemic could help them recognize the qualifications of an excellent leader to consider voting for in the next election for the further developing state in the future.

On the flip side, the encounter situation and experience during the flu outbreak serve a valuable lesson that indeed, “The early bird catches the worm.” Even if the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a forever change in this world we are living in, there is still hope. In the future, mankind will already be equipped to face any challenge that is similar to this.

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umanity’s arduous battle against viral diseases stemmed from approximately 10,000 years ago when cases of smallpox arose in Northeastern Africa. Purging a large percentage of the population across many countries every time an outbreak occurs, many people desperately sought ways to protect themselves. Amidst the fear and chaos in big cities, many first turned to magic, incantations, and amulets for safeguard. Countless turned to religion and prayed to their respective gods to save them. Those in small communities isolated themselves as not to be contracted with the virus, but with varying degrees of success.

The word ‘quarantine’ emerged in Venice — specifically from the word ‘quarantena’, meaning 40 days. This refers to the number of days a ship is required to wait in the harbor before docking to make sure that no one aboard caught a disease.

Along the way of this 10 millennia retaliation against invisible enemies, as early as 430 B.C.E., it was common knowledge that the people who contracted the virus and survived did not get infected again in future outbreaks. And so, different civilizations came up with their process of ‘Variolation’ – this is the umbrella term for taking pus or powdered scabs from smallpox victims and putting it in healthy people, named after the ‘Variola Virus’ which causes smallpox. In China, they used ground scabs and blew them up on healthy people’s noses with a long pipe. On the other hand, Indian people puncture the skin with an iron needle dipped in a smallpox pustule. The pioneers of these methods may not have understood how immunity works at a cellular level. But still, they already realized in their time that exposing humans to any form of the virus can help develop immunity without having them survive the full-blown disease. This concept served as one of the building blocks of the medical advancement we now know as ‘vaccination.’

The modern concept of a vaccine is that it is a preparation used to stimulate a body’s immune

Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

Written by Mycah Andrea Tusi & Romieleth Espillardo response against diseases.

Although they are commonly administered through needle injections, they can also be administered orally or be sprayed into the nasal cavity. It contains an agent with similar surface proteins to the disease-causing microorganism, a weakened form of the pathogen or a dead form of the microbe. It is done so that the body will be prepped before hypothetically contracting the disease in the future .

EMERGENCY USE AUTHORIZATION (EUA) The United States government agency Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is globally recognized for its scientific standard of vaccine safety, effectiveness, and quality.

The agency provides regulatory advice to vaccine developers and undertakes a rigorous evaluation of the scientific information through all phases of clinical trials. In desperate times with relation to the health and medical field, the FDA is given the right to authorize unapproved medical products or unapproved uses of medical products to be used to diagnose or treat lifethreatening diseases or conditions.

It is only when certain criteria are met, including a situation where there are no adequate or available alternatives.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it was declared that circumstances exist justifying the authorization of emergency use of drugs and biological support on February 4, 2020. And the EUA was asserted and effective on March 27, 2020.

ANALYZING THE UNSEEN FOE’S STRUCTURE As of now, the biggest threat that mankind has is a hidden enemy known as Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). COVID-19 comes from the large family of a virus called Coronaviridae. It is also where Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) belongs. Hence the name, the COVID-19 physical structure possesses spike proteins that resemble a crown or ‘corona’ in Latin. The virus carries Ribonucleic acid (RNA) that contains the

Photo sources: Leigh Prather (Adobe Stock)

blueprint that it needs to replicate.

Like a mole drilling the ground, the COVID-19 virus finds its way into the host cell by using the spike proteins as their molecular mechanism. Once it is in, it binds to a receptor that causes viral fusion. This is when the Coronavirus starts to reproduce, eventually filling the cell. As it goes back to the cell membrane and erupts, this frequently results in the cell’s breakage. After that, the virus moves to another cell as its next target. This cycle repeats, and once the majority of the cells start to get damaged, the body will perceive danger and trigger a response from the immune system.

DEBUNKING THE MYTH OF EFFICACY RATE Nowadays, even if various brands of COVID-19 vaccines are available, some still refuse to get their doses. A plausible explanation for this might be the myth of efficacy rates. Flashing news included details about vaccines, including their efficacy rates, showing the percentage of how ‘effective’ one brand is.

However, these numbers may be a bit misleading. Pfizer and Moderna share incredibly high percentages, respectively, with 95% and 94%.

That is why most people prefer these brands, thinking that these are far more superior than others.

Yet, this fact does not indicate that the aforementioned brands are better than the others to burst everyone’s bubble. To prove that, the process of how vaccines get their efficacy rate should be explained. The efficacy rate of a vaccine is defined through a clinical trial wherein the vaccine is tested on a huge number of people.

This group is then separated into halves: one getting the actual vaccine and one getting the placebo. Researchers then supervise the number of people who would get COVID-19 over the months and calculate the efficacy rate thereon.

“The vaccine (Pfizer) had 95% efficacy. Now, this doesn’t mean that

if 100 people are vaccinated, 5 of them will get sick. Instead, that 95% number applies to the individual,” Vox explained on their YouTube channel.

It should also be taken note that different vaccine brands had conducted their clinical trials with varying participants, time periods, and locations. For example, Pfizer achieved a 95% efficacy rate during its Phase 3 clinical trial in December 2020. On the other hand, Johnson & Johnson applied for authorization in February 2021 with an efficacy rate of 67%. This was the time when COVID cases were rising and new variants were being discovered.

That is why it is not valid to have a preference for certain vaccine brands solely on the percentages; since there are also other factors to be considered.

As Dr. Edsel Salvaña of the Philippine General Hospital highlighted in his speech, “The best vaccine is the vaccine in your arm.”

Humankind has come from using pus and scabs to now using virus-like particles and encapsulated mRNA, all in the name of immunization. We could determine how much advancement has been obtained as the methods of vaccination progress in terms of safety. And of course, this would not be possible without the power of science.

Discoveries like these are here for a reason. As time passes, our society’s challenges get tougher and tougher. Everyone must be equipped to discern whether a piece of information is fact or fake, especially during this period of adversity. Unknowingly, a person may have been depriving oneself of protection against the virus due to being misinformed. COVID-19 is not a myth, business, or propaganda. It is real and could affect you at any time.

Remember that being vaccinated does not only ensure your own safety but also the safety of others.

In a stack of cards, take a pick Trust the instinct of your fingers As they rummage each card – quick!

Don’t let your second thought lingers Whatever card you pull, lays your fate Driven by sinful desires may put you at stake For no matter virtuous your life is, If ye lack faith, You are sent into the abyss.

Empty, dark, and desolate…

Trapped without His presence – Suffering boundless and endless.

Your seeking of the Pleasure of the flesh Will throw you into the Unceasing and endless Storm of unforgiving wind, brutal; Escaping it is futile.

Dissatisfaction with fodder and feast, Transforms someone into a beast, Those are the overindulgent, What awaits them is a pool of torment, Wallow in a repugnant quagmire,

In return for their insatiable desire.

Slow down the taking, honey!

For you might not like it at all When you get everything you fancy You might take the fall There you will be, in the fourths For nothing good comes with force Vision turning red, Gritting the teeth hard; Clenching fists until it bled, Your palms forever marred.

Drowning and choking amidst the conflicts At the bottom of the river of Styx.

Do you think you are faithful? ...That your every action is graceful?

Praying for the things related to your lusts, praising statues that are made of glass.

Your actions and beliefs are not aligned.

Heresy of the religious mankind.

Through your bloodlust,

“Realm of those who have rejected spiritual values by yielding to bestial appetites or violence, or by perverting their human intellect to fraud or malice against fellowmen.” - Dante Alighieri After six years, The Guardian Publication finally releases another ‘Lagaslasan’ Literary folio featuring the theme of the Divine Comedy Trilogy. From Dante Alighieri’s Inferno, the folio comprises stories and poems presented and divided into nine circles – limbo, lust, gluttony, greed, wrath, heresy, violence, fraud, and treachery.

you hold an iron full of rust.

With full emotion, without hesitation, violence occurs…

This is the beginning of your curse.

And if living in shame Is the name of your game, Go on, defraud and swindle.

In time, you’ll perish and dwindle.

For all the tricks of your personal gain, The Malebolge will surely bring you pain.

Drawn in your hand The blood of a fellow Taken from the back where you stand Because you’re afraid— you’re yellow But the thing is, even faceless, you will still be caught The verdict sees what’s in the blindspot Touch move – you’ve settled your place Where torture numbs your pleasure Then leads to your insanity at slow pace Abandon all hope upon your ledger For the card you hold, leads to your eternal doom That punctures holes in your soul, a pain that can’t be immuned.

*We do not own anything but the plot. Any resemblance to real life names, situations, etc. is purely a coincidence.

Moreover, the presenting theme does not reflect the publication’s personal beliefs and values, it is a mere literary expression and creative depiction of reality.

LAGASLASAN 2022

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Written by Jamille Jane Dipol & John Paul Torrecampo

taring afar, a bittersweet smile shaped Reymark’s innocent face. Children his age play Langit Lupa and Patintero on fields somewhere in Sultan Kudarat, while fate places a 10-year-old boy at his disadvantage. Reymark uses his full force to push the araro and assist his horse – plowing the two-hectare farm every day despite his small arms and legs. It later cultivated as his labor routine, a decision that sprang from an abolished dream and a choice born out of the will to survive.

Photo sources: - Kids w/ Sacks: IMAGEGLOBE, Hands: Stock Images, Kid w/ Horse: Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (GMA News and Public Affairs)

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DEPRIVATION OF FUNDAMENTALS Featured in the show Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS), Reymark Mariano’s story manifested that child labor is rooted in these factors.

At the start of his emerging puberty, he was forced to make ends meet for his family. Instead of playing and having fun outside, he spent his time with his horse plowing the soil field. He keeps his family afloat with his exceeding hardship at the expense of his fundamental rights — a concise picture of how child labor deprives and exploits the establishment of dreams and aspirations of a child.

Having served meals on the table, attending school, and playing with friends their age after school hours are the physiological needs entitled to a child. But in a country where employment issues, poverty rate, human trafficking, and educational system are of constant conflict, child labor has long been unsurprising yet a recurring reality.

AGONY OF A CHILD Just like other children, Reymark is excited to go home after a long day, delighted to share amusing experiences with his grandparents.

But, don’t be overwhelmed. Because behind those astonishing smiles are sweats hidden under his tarnished shirt. It is the product of endlessly working throughout the day instead of cherishing the amenities in parks and amusement places. The fertile soil serves as his playground, as if he is playing hide and seek wherein responsibility is tracking him down.

Reymark is a name to remember, and he is not alone. Imagine four million deprived youths in the Philippines aged between five to 17 are working for their survival and sacrificing their studies in exchange for a little centavos. The International Labour Organization (ILO) declared about 95% of child laborers are unprotected from hazardous environments that put their lives in peril, including long exposure to deadly chemicals and physical dangers. Somewhat frightening, those children also manifest moral deprivation.

Child labor is a bold illustration of prioritizing material realities over the human person or profit maximization at all costs.

Children are stuck in the stumbling block of life at a young age. The hefty accountabilities of their family left them no choice but to skip their supposedly enthusiastic youthful life.

Their immeasurable sacrifices roughly translate to maturity as they endure the grueling consequences of child labor such as physical deterioration, mental wasting, low aspiration, and moral decay.

A STEP BACK IN GROWTH “Mahirap dahil maliit lang ako pero kinakaya ko para sa aking pamilya,” Reymark sobbingly narrated as he experienced bruises and excruciating pains while fearlessly working under the burning rays of the sun.

A child’s body, emotion, psyche, and mind are not mature yet to face life’s adversities. Thus, they endure much pain encountering heavy duties under labor that may even interfere with their physical growth.

Such an effect is seen on Reymark’s body, which is far from a regular raising adolescent.

It’s crucial to imagine that youths are exposed to bad weather during the daytime. While suffering from an irregularity of sleep working past bedtime, they should embrace their soft pillows and enjoy the sweet lullaby of their parents. Kid workers inevitably depart from some aspects of their juvenile life which are integral to their average growth.

Indeed, a brutal and cruel vicious cycle.

“Wala na kaming chance yumaman sa mundo dahil ang amin lang po ay sa isang araw makakain lang sa tatlo,” Reymark sorrowfully exclaimed.

As they play truant, the working children’s academic, moral, and social education is at risk. In the long run, victims of child exploitation may soon acquire a distaste for regular employment. This is due to lack of proper training; as children, they lock themselves in fields and endure physical wear-out which eventually drifts them into a huge

class of future casual or contractual workers. It is alarming that some towering companies are taking advantage of hiring children in work where juveniles eventually suffer their immense misfortune. The consequences are terrible: inferior aspiration, low spirit, and deprived self-confidence.

THE SACRIFICIAL LAMB Behind the dreadful consequences of child exploitation lies another terrible problem which is poverty. Children were mercilessly working under the flame of the sun and engaging in hazardous chemicals without adequate protective equipment.

They face all the risks in work, yet they remain underpaid. Child labor is very convenient for most abusive employers to hire them because they do not complain much. It also costs less because the young workers are not usually given the required minimum wage and other benefits.

Every day is a huge battle for them – fighting for their survival and hustling for basic needs in life. For the family to evade death from hunger, children are forcing themselves to work to supplement income and support their schooling even though Karit ni Kamatayan awaits them. Even the lowest payments in cash or in-kind are short relief to the poverty-stricken families where these children have belonged.

Shamefully, children are suffering from traditional distorted beliefs. Some unfortunate parents hope that children could uplift themselves by paying their debts and supporting the family. Children forgot their human rights at a tender age; they are ordered to send siblings to school while, on the other hand, staying out of school.

Alarmingly, some children needed to work whether they liked it or not because their parents encouraged them to work.

ERADICATING THE INHUMANE CULTURE On the other side, if only children were provided sufficient support in education, health, and in

translating ambitions to reality – a national intervention would not have been necessary in the first place.

Combatting child labor requires enormous support from different sectors of society. In the Philippines, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) spearheads different agencies and programs to eliminate child labor.

However, a common ground distinguishes child labor from child work. The latter is permitted and legal unless the child expressed disapproval and exhaustion from the activities. The enactment of RA No. 7658 (An Act Prohibiting the Employment of Children below 15 Years of Age in Public and Private Undertakings) regulates child work from child labor through formulating specific standards favorable to the rights and entitlement of a juvenile.

Apart from these, it is with distinct empathy to acknowledge the breeding factors of child labor in the country — the very reason different government agencies unite in a single cause of abolishing the grueling culture of child exploitation.

For instance, the establishment of the Philippine Program Against Child Labor (PPACL) ensured alliance and partnerships with different organizations geared up addressing child labor issues. As a result, more affiliations gather to participate in the core mission.

As it stands, the battle is ceaseless.

With adherence to the enacted laws and pushing through relevant projects and programs, the ultimate goal is near at sight — to build a world where children foster while attaining their ambitions, without a need to sacrifice their innocence and mischief to earn a living to survive.

TO DREAM, NOT TO SURVIVE Reymark represents restless and hopeless Filipino youth escaping from humiliating poverty. Despite their eagerness to eradicate poverty through their hard work, if the evil roots of youth employment will not be eliminated, modern slavery will remain unsolved. As what ILO highlighted through their slogan on the celebration of World Day Against Child Labor 2019, “Children shouldn’t work in fields, but on dreams!”

Children are not sacrificial lambs; they were not born to shoulder their parents’ obligations.

They deserve to be gratified by their youthful life and enjoy their fundamental human rights, such as sending them to school for their brighter future. Let them have the experience to be a kid and dream like one.

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hile everything goes into deep regression brought about the thump of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are few Rizal Technological University (RTU) students whose stories become worth telling as they have come to discover and nurture their talents.

Their breakthrough narratives have paved the way to unlock achievements like earning money to support themselves. Because of staying at home, students have molded their passion and successfully conquered all the opportunities they were given even in the most trying times.

UNVEILING CARPE DIEM Kennon Dave “KD” Cutaran, a third-year student taking up Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering, lived with his older brother in a rented apartment when the government announced the community quarantine. As the hard lockdown took over, KD and his brother had no choice but to reckon on such a tiny chance of getting back home in their province in Santiago City, Isabela. He did not have a second thought to continue his study back at home when he had the opportunity, despite the struggles their family faced because of the pandemic.

At some point about KD staying at home in Isabela, the thought of helping his family get through their daily needs struck him as he was set to enroll for the upcoming second semester. He actively endorsed himself to his neighbors who needed tutors for their modular classes. He did not hesitate to grab the opportunity, even when he knew he had to take major responsibilities at once.

Just to manage his time as a student-tutor, KD had to also attend his synchronous classes in the middle of his tutorial schedules. He handled two tutees of different levels and met them at least four hours a day for their modular courses. Even with the challenges of time management, he thrived his way positively until the end of the second semester.

Furthermore, he made sure he still got good grades despite his simultaneous duties. The struggles made him more driven to subject himself still and pull off his online

class recitations.

Correspondingly, with the amount of money he is getting paid monthly, KD took the initiative of paying their internet bill. Earning in this time of pandemic has helped him get through the semester. Apart from paying the internet bills by himself, he also gets to pay for his school needs independently.

“Sa panahon ngayon, hindi option ang magreklamo at itaas ang ego dahil kung hindi ka kikilos, walang mangyayari. You have to find ways on how to deal with your current situation. Use your talents and skills to earn money. Be wise and optimistic!

Hindi lalapit ang solusyon sayo, bagkus ikaw mismo ang hahanap ng solusyon,” he encouraged his fellow RTU students to never let the fire inside them extinguish.

He added that even in the darkest moments of a pandemic, everyone must be reminded to never let despair consume them, because there are lots of reasons to move forward and keep going.

BREAKDOWN TO BREAKTHROUGH Isolation: the separation of people ailed with a contagious disease from people who are not sick, as defined by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Of course, Chedette Bautista – a third-year psychology major – has been experiencing this too, but in an unusual way. It would lead her to beat a dead horse or overthink her performance in school.

In the process, she discovered that she could be more sluggish than the past version of herself, which led her to cry buckets of tears as this was not on her timeline. She did not want this to happen, despite the pandemic’s other plans. It was only through time that Chedette could unshackle herself with the things tying her down to the ground. Only then was she able to build the way up, and on the top. When it comes to motivation towards moving forward, she was reminded of the things and the people she placed a great value on.

One of her coping strategies in the midst of the health crisis is to continue her online business. Ever since seventh grade, Chedette has been earning money by means of selling. She has sold frozen goods such as tapa, nuggets, chicken, etc., and oilbased perfumes, making her fulfill one of her dreams. She now owns a cosmetic line named ‘Beauteous Aesthetic,’ which she manages on her own and earns PHP1,0002,000 per week. At the time of the pandemic, not only her online commerce served as a distraction but also to maintain a financial resource during quarantine. For Chedette, it was like hitting two birds with one stone.

“Gusto ko lang talaga may ginagawa.

Gusto ko may sarili akong pera kahit pandemic. Mas okay na kasi na may kita kahit papano sa pandemya, mahirap na pag wala kang pagkukuhaan ng sarili mong pera, ‘di ba?” she stated when asked what was the reason for her to continue selling even during the pandemic.

She further shared her experience and perception for other people who plan or aim to start a business, emphasizing on the importance of strategizing first before proceeding to online selling.

She also stated that it was quite normal to receive ‘bogus buyers’ in the field that she is in. Paramount to her success was sitting back and

Written by Blase Alyana Maye Laguerta & Rona Jane Germano

taking a break. In hard times, she makes sure to take a time-out.

She will then resume to try again and continue what she started.

Eventually, she will find her way back like she always has and makes strides with what’s ahead of her.

WEAVE ONE’S WAY A small green square bag can substitute as a pillow for jeepney rides, a handkerchief to cover her mouth, and a maroon jacket for whenever a mellow and gentle wind embraces her skin. A typical image of Maureen Silvela, currently a thirdyear psychology student, can be observed by her classmates early in the morning during face-to-face classes. With the pandemic, she can only be seen through Google and Zoom meetings, taking down notes from the ongoing lectures while wearing earphones.

From modifying her sleeping, studying, and even eating patterns, she strived hard to set her foot on the standard of her professors, despite the weight of pressure trying to bring her down, “To be honest, sobra akong pinahirapan ng online class. Mas naramdaman ko yung struggles ng college student sa set up na ‘to. May mga araw na

nalulungkot ako kapag nakakakuha ako ng mababang score sa quiz or sa exam, na di ko naman usually nararamdaman noong face-to-face class pa.”

With the lockdowns being implemented, finding an alternative to alleviate her stress was not easy.

Since her unwinding routine of walks around her village can no longer be done this time. Having left with no other option, she utilized the existing things in their house: books and crochet materials.

Taking into consideration on the amount of time the pandemic has given her, Silvela began to watch aesthetic vlogs on YouTube during the second semester and was inspired by them. The content was mostly about productivity, so she thought of learning a different hobby related to her previous one, since her forte is using a thread, yarn, or cloth.

When it comes to self-studying, she encountered limitations from having no one to ask for clarifications or if something was not clear on her end. She also mentioned that negative feedbacks were one of the challenges she

faced along the way, “To be honest, kahit ilang beses kong sabihin sa sarili ko na dapat di nagma-matter ‘yong sinasabi ng ibang tao na negative sa ginagawa ko, naaapektuhan pa rin ako. Parang may tini-trigger sila sakin na nawala na sa consciousness ko pero dahil sa kanila, ‘yong mga negative thoughts na inalis ko na noong umpisa pa lang is bumalik na naman,” she admitted.

Whenever self-doubt would knock on her door, Maureen battles it with positive thoughts and would reflect on her achievements.

Presently, she can now make crochet headbands and scrunchies.

She continues to explore different varieties in the long run and considers starting up a business.

“Lagi kong iniisip kung bakit ba ako nag-umpisa sa mga life goals na nilalaban ko ngayon. Kung susuko ako dahil sa struggles ng pandemic na ito, parang iniwan ko rin sa ere ‘yong mga life goals and inspirasyon ko. On the way na ako sa success.

Itong pandemic na ito, part lang siya ng process ko – ‘di hindrance,” she remarked.

Setting a target after learning something new has helped the 21-

year old college junior to maintain being productive, and if the pandemic makes her feel negative, she would find the time to rest even for a few hours. Sometimes it will take her days but after that, she’s ready for another fight.

The pandemic has undeniably made a plot twist on the soundness everyone has gotten with. It has made people lose the spark of hope in getting back on track and persevering again. There have been lots of dull moments that took place. But it is on each other’s choice to play along into the plot twist and rewrite the story.

Likewise, it is each other’s choice to light up the candle once more and try to begin again, even if it takes struggling back to square one. It is on their decision whether to repaint vibrant colors in the dull moments and relive the burning passion that was once destroyed.

Photo sources: Tutoring Kids: Kennon Dave Cutaran, Perfume, Biscuit, Liptint: Chedette Bautista, Crochet: Maureen Silvelaoho

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LITERARY

A

s I made my steps into the kitchen side, I flinched at the stinging pain from my foot that was bleeding. I looked down to see a piece of broken glass, which I dropped yesterday, I’ve unconsciously stepped on.Despite the throbbing pain, I managed to brew my own coffee and litter away from the sugar packets. I’m aware of the setting the setting I was in, this woman would have gone shouting right through me when she saw how chaotic my room had become.

But my stone-cold self wouldn’t hear her out anyway.

I just stood there watching my foot covered in blood. Just as when I started to indulge in my thoughts, a familiar caller brought me back to my senses. What doomed luck I got. The phone rang for at least three minutes, and I knew the caller wouldn’t give up just like that. After one missed call would be seven long text messages which I don’t bother reading. That person has been so accustomed to doing these things everyday that I have grown to the same old dramatic scripts.

A car’s parked in the nearside of this old house. All I was doing was playing along with the guitar my godmother gave me. A tall woman in her mid-forties came rushing to the gate. She was carrying a handful of greens.

When she made it to the door, she was greeted with goodbye by my father, full of wrinkles and all dressed up for work.

“Take good care of the kids.

See you later,” I can see him glancing at the person who was all this time watching from behind me and me. He drove the car parked and went away.

I hated him for driving away that fast because I didn’t like what took place next. The woman who went out earlier came to me and asked me to get prepped up because we were headed to Abby’s family friend. The girl at my back went rushing into her room.

She was really excited. And since I

The Guardian

With integrity, we write.

Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

By | Rona Jane Germano don’t want to be left alone in the house, I return my stuff and get myself ready.

I decided to bring my favorite satchel with me, so I went on looking for it. I saw mom getting inside our car when I glanced outside the window. Of course, she will be driving us since Dad was not around. She kept yelling my twin sister’s name, so I heard her rush downstairs because she needed her help getting the car out of the parking space. She was so excited that it didn’t take her two minutes to get changed and get down.

I searched everywhere else in the room to find the bag I intended to bring, but I couldn’t find it. Just when I decided to adjust the chair to stand on it and search for the bag in the higher compartments, I heard a loud noise following a deafening car horn. It didn’t sound right. My heart suddenly beat so fast, and I almost fell from the chair.

My guts didn’t fail me. The next thing I knew was my twin sister lying in her own blood after being run over by our own car – driven by her own mom. I could not breathe nor think straight at the moment when suddenly I heard my name yelled out by my mom. “Stay off the phone!” she yelled with all might as if she knew what I would do next. Right then and there, she knew that I knew what had happened.

Seven minutes later, I heard her cry. My latter self knew the drama had started. She began asking for help from the neighbors while calling someone on her phone she was holding the entire time.

On the day we laid her to rest in the cemetery, this woman was indicted for the murder of her own child. Investigation says she went straight into the insurance company to claim the guaranteed money when personnel expected her to accompany her child to the hospital. I didn’t exactly know what happened that time. I lost sense of my consciousness and regained it the following day.

Evidence showed that she was

after the money upon knowing that my father had paid my sister’s life insurance. Nobody knows exactly what prompted her to do such thing because even my dad would refuse to talk about it in.

I woke up and found myself lying on the floor with the bloodstains still on my feet.

Something always brings me back to my memory of losing a person with the same physical traits that I have. It wasn’t easy letting go and forgetting everything despite her having been jailed. Dad gave in to his depression sometime after my sister’s death. From there, I didn’t know how I managed to stay here,

more so to stay alive.

Even to this day, I guess my heart wouldn’t want to forgive and forget. It is still full of anguish that it never occurred to me to answer her calls and read her messages.

It has been seven years since that day. But it feels like it all happened just yesterday. The pain feels fresh that I couldn’t dare to move on. I lost a family; I lost a part of me. And yet, even up to this very day, I choose to live on the mystery of why she did that to her.

I didn’t want to hear and accept explanations; it was, after all, unexplainable.

artwork by | Erica Mae Vidal

LITERARY 17

The Guardian With integrity, we write.

Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

artwork by | Erica Mae Vidal

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE

LENS by | Blase Laguerta & Mycah Andrea Tusi

THE COMEDY OF

TENTEN By | Jan Michael Silot

“Ubusin mo ‘yan, Maraming batang nagugutom,” A very familiar phrase, isn’t it?

A phrase often overlooked but true

Tenten can’t avoid staring at the customers Savoring their freshly cooked, unspoiled food Felt envious and sad, was about to cry but fought it The boy then started to search the trash

Tenten, a 10-year-old boy Used to dig a pile of trash To find… lunch for his family He’s lucky if he finds some for dinner

Tenten noticed that the guard was approaching He stopped and felt nervous “Gusto mo ‘to pogi? Sa’yo na oh,” The guard handed him a fresh hamburger

Tenten was born into a poor household His loving mother is jobless Has a father that depends on the sidelines No permanent job to hang on to.

Tenten smiled widely, almost covering his face Unaware that a random citizen recorded a video.

Posted online, it became viral overnight.

Thousands were touched by this young boy.

Tenten has six more siblings And the newborn is counted His mother is two months pregnant Can’t afford and don’t know how to use contraceptives

Tenten then woke up the next day, Someone is knocking on the door.

He was surprised. As many people have Prepared gifts for him and his family.

Tenten only got up to fifth grade and stopped None of his other family members got that far That’s why they’re ignorant of everything Who is to blame?

Tenten, with his friends, Gardo and Raul Always hang out at the dumpsite Trying to find pagpag, and Some plastic and metal to sell in the junk shop Tenten found food, finally “Uy! Chickenjoy, may laman pa!”

Even if it’s spoiled and smells bad He enjoyed every inch of it; it’s his brunch Tenten didn’t eat all of it He brought some for his little siblings “Damihan niyo na lang tubig para mabusog,” He said, pointing at the unclean water Tenten wandered outside of his favorite place The fast-food chain, JoyRulBee He is looking for pagpag again That can feed him and his family

Tenten, floating on cloud nine, received Sacks of rice, a basket of groceries, Essential supplies and hygiene products.

Thousands of money from donations.

Tenten’s father got a stable job.

His mother got to start a small business.

And a scholarship program for the children Things are getting better now for Tenten Tenten is now happy and more energetic But every joy has a twin of sadness He wonders what will happen to the other Very poor families like them.

Tenten realized that not all had the opportunity Still, many of them are starving to death And he felt pity for his friends, Gardo and Raul But then, he never failed to help his friends

“Bakit? Kapag kinain ko lahat ‘to, Mabubusog ‘yong mga nagugutom?”

The usual response. Sure they won’t get full But you being grateful means a lot to them.

Making my way to the start of the line, I scanned the stadium.

It was filled with vacant chairs — no families to hug, no friends to clasp hands with, and no deafening cheers.

Looking down while my hands were on my waist, I let the air in and out slowly lifted my head up. I prepared to be on my knees and stayed alert. The thumping of my heart is so loud as I anxiously wait for the signal. “Bang!” I ran as fast as I could, harmonizing my arms and legs. My eyes are focused in front while everything else passes like a blur. And before I knew it, I was already mumbling “Thank you!” while looking up.t The track finished with the camera zooming at me lying down and heaving. I flashed them a smile from ear to ear and aimed my index finger at the sky. In the camera’s direction, I bowed, not at the bleachers. Because it’s where my audience, and supporters are on the other side of the lens.

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LITERARY

The Guardian

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Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

It’s Too Late to Apologize By | John Paul Torrecampo The appetizing scent is the sizzling head cheese fresh off the grill. The crispy thighs and the fleshy tenderloin that shuts my eyes in paramount bliss.

Every bite feels like heaven as it touches my tongue, melting its bits in my saliva. I prepared different styles of cooking I learned from mama, but all taste the same – euphoria. The sensation of chewing and swallowing was enough to occupy my well-being for moments, not until a flock of unwanted people rummaged through the kitchen and chained my stained wrists. Hands soaked in a pool of innocent blood.

RUINED By | Justine Rose Generato

Once there was a flower in its full bloom And a group of trees swaying to the rhythm of the wind Then there comes the night with a glowing full moon This is the paradise we all dream.

I came back to my senses with a weeping heart. My utmost fascination for meats had gone too far. Sorry for chopping your slender figure, Jessica.

But sooner…

The flower has withered The trees were cut The moon still shines But the world does not.

We have taken them for granted It was unlikely before Where everything is magical and enchanted.

Heartwarming Breakthrough By | Jamille Jane Dipol Every day is a new beginning, But how would I begin if I had nothing?

My heart is grieving As I mourn every morning.

My source of income is now defeated, By the ruinous pandemic.

My life is now at stake, As I was diagnosed with a critical COVID-19 case.

As I open my phone, I saw their astonishing smiles, With dazzling and sparkling eyes, I felt their love even if their distance is in miles,

It’s like I’m in a dreadful cage, Forcedly quarantined and isolated, Alarmingly, I can’t breathe and taste, I’m in vain, struggling in excruciating pain.

I still have everything, Different from what I’m expecting.

I still have my family Who is patiently waiting for me.

At that moment, I wanted to end my journey, Since I already lost prosperity, When I felt the frontliners’ heartwarming care, I finally gained my powers again.

I need to live, Even if living is full of mourning.

I need to start again, ‘Cause I still had an opportunity to glimpse the world within.

The Guardian With integrity, we write.

Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

By | Mycah Andrea Tusi

I thought we were happy I thought we were in love But then you came one morning Tears of the sky fell from above We didn’t see each other for days We didn’t speak to each other for weeks It’s been over a month since the idea of us Being together again is bleak Pink Camellias, I then gave you one night I never told you what it meant Just gave it and went out of sight It means I’m longing for you It hurts, but it’s alright To love me again I believe you might Then one day, I saw you Smiling and laughing with someone Your eyes lit up, you were happy I quickly turned around and ran The next day again, I gave you flowers Of which you never knew what it meant Yellow Hyacinth bulbs, laid on your hands I disappeared, left no room for argument You stared at the flowers That you received from me Not knowing that those buds Symbolized jealousy

LITERARY 19

Later that day, I came back Yellow Chrysanthemums held in my hand I gave it to you, and you accepted For the meaning it held, you never demand It means slighted love A love that’s been casted aside It was so painful, but I hid it Behind my mask of smile, I cried Then the date of my birth came I gave you red carnations I never told you what it convey I left it to your own assumptions ‘My heart aches for you’ Is what I want to say with it You won’t love me back, I now accepted To the painful fate, I finally submit Then it has been a year Since we broke up I gave you crimson red roses And finally you spoke up You asked what it meant You asked what it expresses Don’t want to be left confused anymore Your questions, you cannot suppress I took a deep breath and said First is ‘mourning and death’, Second is ‘rebirth and life’ I told you what the roses meant You asked for a clearer explanation For you still can’t understand You said I was too deep Make it simple, not grand

The following day you came Wanting us to be just friends The crimson red roses have thorns I painfully accepted, and gave you flowers It hurts, it cuts, and it can tear flesh apart You received it though you don’t comprehend Like how I felt about what happened to us I was torn apart, it started from my heart The daffodils, you received, Were tokens of friendship to you Death and mourning, for I swallowed the truth Unrequited, one-sided love I gave up on my beliefs that we can be together again The meaning it held true I killed my hopes that you will regain your feelings I ended my faith that you will love me again After some time, I finally had the courage I confessed, I admitted that I still love you Rebirth and life, for now I have moved on You said you were sorry that don’t feel the In my memory, you’ll forever be a part same I may forget your name; I may forget your face You said that I should move on, start anew But I will never forget that you once owned my heart

artwork by | Erica Mae Vidal

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SHUTTERSPEAKS

1. BAWAT SENTIMO ni Lemmy Delos Reyes 2. DISINFECTING ni Daksh Castillo 3. KAYOD ni Jesse Viray 4. PPE ni Daksh Castillo 5. TIYAGA ni Mark Joseph Garcia 6. FOCUS ni Jovelyn Mirandilla 7. NEVER BE THE SAME ni David Villanueva 8. UYAG ni Jesse Viray 9. INTAWON ni Charlie Mae Cruz 10. SIGASIG ni Mark Joseph Garcia 12. UTOY ni Lemmy Delos Reyes 13. SIKAP ni Mark Joseph Garcia 14. MULAT ni Mark Joseph Garcia 15. CONNECT ni Lemmy Delos Reyes 16. ALAY-LAKAD ni Jesse Viray 17. PAUSE ni Jhayl Borromeo 18. PAG-AALAY ni Charlie Mae Cruz 19. PATULOY ni Mark Joseph Garcia 20. PANGARAP ni Mark Joseph Garcia 21. SA DAPIT HAPON ni Lemmy Delos Reyes

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Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

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Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

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17 FOREWORD: Shutterspeaks is a collection of photographs relating to a societal issue. It aims to use art and journalism to convey real-life emotions and situations.

To RTUians who want to submit their entries for the next issue, you may send your files at tgp@ rtu.edu.ph with the subject: SHUTTERSPEAKS ENTRY

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Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

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Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

GIMO 23

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SPORTS

The Guardian

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Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

By | CJ Pingad and Jerica Sartillo

Groundbreaking history and noble valor – after 97 years filled with brilliance and grit, 19 Filipino athletes brought pride and honor as they capped off the biggest medal haul in Olympic history with their heroic efforts during the 2020 Summer Tokyo Olympics, July 23 – August 8.

WOMEN’S WEIGHTLIFTING July 26 — Amplifying her supremacy and boldness, Hidilyn Diaz bagged the first-ever Filipino Olympic gold medal in the 55-kilogram Women’s weightlifting, with a total lift of 224 kilograms. With tenacious arms and legs, she managed to outlast the People of the Republic of China Representative Liao Qiuyun, held in Tokyo International Forum.

At the same venue, Elreen Ando made her Olympic debut in seventh place for the Women’s weightlifting division for 64 kilograms, finishing her Olympic performance with a total lift of 222 kilograms, July 27.

WOMEN’S BOXING Kokugikan Arena — Showcasing her persistence with her heavy combinations, Filipino pride Nesthy Petecio seized the Olympic silver medal in the Women’s Featherweight division.

Despite her resisting strength, the 29-year-old Filipina boxer failed to outmaneuver the Japanese defensive fighter Sena Irie in the championship match of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, August 3.

Meanwhile, Iloilo native Irish Magno entered round 16 in the Women’s

Flyweight division, July 29. In the Asia and Oceania qualifiers, she became the first Filipina boxer to make history after winning a boxoff securing an Olympic slot.

MEN’S BOXING August 7 — Flaunting his fortitude with fiery hooks and jabs, Carlo Paalam polished a silver finish in the Men’s Boxing Flyweight finals. Paalam bid his goodbye to in clinching the gold medal after Great Britain’s Gala Yafai prevailed via a 4-1 split decision held at Kokugikan Arena.

Also, the 25-year-old Filipino fighter Eumir Marcial sealed a bronze medal via a 3-2 split decision in the final bout as he displayed an aggressive match against Ukraine’s Oleksandr Khyzhniak in the Men’s Boxing Middleweight Semifinals, August 5.

MEN’S ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS Ariake Gymnastics Centre — With the small point gap of .017, the youngest Filipino gymnast Carlos Edriel Yulo fell short on the Podium, settling on fourth place in the Artistic Gymnastics Men’s Vault finals, August 2.

Displaying surmountable performance in the second vault, Yulo executed an impressive 14.866 record, in the tournament and finished his Olympic campaign with a 14.716 average score — nearly snatching the bronze medal for the Philippines.

MEN’S ROWING July 30 — Filipino rower Cris Nievarez capped 23rd place as he finished his Olympic campaign in the overall ranking of Men’s rowing competition.

The Quezon native swept his Olympian rank by completing

his rowing clock within seven minutes and 26.05 seconds, earning the fifth spot in his heat during Men’s single sculls quarterfinals held at the Sea Forest Waterway, Tokyo, Japan.

WOMEN’S AND MEN’S ATHLETICS Unleashing her courageous sprint, Filipino-American Kristina Knott snatched 5th in Athletics Women’s 200m run after finishing last in Heat 7 held at the Japan National Stadium, August 2.

Endowed by courageous flexibility, Ernest John “EJ” Obiena successfully cleared the 5.70 meters in the Athletics Men’s Pole Vault finals at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, August 3.

The Filipino pole vaulter neglects the pressure and failure at bar dislodge during his third attempt in 5.80 meters finishing his Olympic run with graceful agility clinching 11th place, held at Tokyo National Stadium.

WOMEN’S SKATEBOARDING Ariake Skating Park - With impeccable tricks and wit, Filipina professional skateboarder Margielyn Didal rose to golden fame after receiving global recognition with her commendable sportsmanship at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.

Didal captivated the hearts and admiration of the world as she managed to flex with her skates, nailing a total output of 7.52 seconds, capturing seventh place at the women’s street skateboarding.

WOMEN’S AND MEN’S GOLF August 7 — Exhibiting flawless aiming, the reigning 2021 US Women’s Open championship Yuka Saso in ninth place in the fourth and final round. Philippine professional golfer Bianca Pagdanganan concluded her campaign with a double bogey in the last hole, caught on clutching her 43rd spot at the Kasumigaseki Country Club.

On the other match, Filipino bet Juvic Pagunsan ranked 55th in the 60-man field of Men’s Individual Golf, August 1.

WOMEN’S SWIMMING Tokyo Aquatics Center — Remedy Alexis Rule dived a smooth Olympic debut, finishing 15th place overall in the Women’s 100 and 200 meter Butterfly events, July 27.

In the second heat of her tournament, the Filipino - American swimmer took off the water splash with a time of 2 minutes and 12.89 seconds.

MEN’S SWIMMING Tokyo Aquatic Center Despite the swift freestyle swim, Luke Gebbie fell short in the Men’s 100 and 50 meters freestyle heats, July 27 - 30.

Proving to be one of the top contenders in the tournament, Gebbie set a new Olympic record ‘for a Filipino contestant at 49.64 seconds in the Men’s 100 meters freestyle, finishing his Olympic stroke at 41st place.

SPORTS 25

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Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

BREN ESPORTS TYRANNIZE M2 WORLD TOURNAMENT

MEN’S TAEKWONDO July 24 — Despite the intimidating kicks, Kurt Barbosa hoped to stay alive on track yet gave a great fight against Korea.

The Filipino representative accomplished his taekwondo Olympic run after entering into round 16 in the Men’s Taekwondo 58kg event at the Makuhari Messe Hall.

WOMEN’S JUDO Attempting to overpower her rival with grappling strength, Japanese-Filipino Kiyomi Watanabe slipped her grasp at the top 16 spot, after Spain bet Cristina Cabana Perez dominated in the first 38 seconds of round 32 in the Women’s 63 kilograms, held at the Nippon Budokan, July 27.

MEN’S AIR RIFLE Equipped with confidence on his bullet, Jayson Valdez still fires up his performance as he captured 44th place in the Men’s 10m Air Rifle qualification round held at the Asaka Shooting Range, July 25.

Regardless of Olympic pressure, Valdez showing off his fire shooting skills that aimed to a total score of 612.6 and 102.1 average points.

Singapore City, Singapore — Bren Esports recovered from their downfall in the lower bracket round, establishing their way back into the upper bracket to bag the M2 World Tournament Championship title last January 18-24, 2021.

The Philippine representative showcased their persistence in the grand finals, clutching the nailbiting clash to outlast Burmese Ghoul from Myanmar with a tight 4-3 win-loss standing in the bestof-seven series.

Using his signature heroes like Claude, Harley, and Lancelot – Karl Gabriel ‘KarlTzy’ Nepomuceno utilized his map awareness to ambush their enemies to carry their team, gaining his title as the Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP)

in the tournament.

With an aggressive playstyle in the qualifying round, Bren Esports seized the jungle area of their enemies to take away the game, marking their early 2-0 winloss standing in the tournament against 10s Gaming Frost from Japan and Alter Ego of Indonesia to advance in the upper bracket.

Still trying to defend their tower against the tenacious Ghouls, Bren Esports slipped the semifinal ticket from their grasp at the upper bracket against their rival. Burmese Ghouls exhibited aggressive but careful sets to sweep the game at 2-0.

Rampaging at the lower bracket, Bren Esports’ agility and bloodlust grasped the threeconsecutive wins against Todak

By | Ryan Emmanuel Reyes

from Malaysia, Alter Ego, and RRQ Hoshi of Indonesia – stepping up at the championship round to avenge their loss against Burmese Ghouls.

Burmese Ghoul faced defeat against Bren Esports with the latter’s head-to-head gaming strategy in the final round, ending their journey in the tournament at 4-3 standing.

“The hardest part about facing Burmese Ghouls in the finals was the draft. The drafts were always the same, so we needed to step up and take charge. What we did was gamble and gamble until we won,” said Bren Esports Rookie David Charles Canon ‘Flaptzy’ on how they managed to outmaneuver their final opponent.

Victory swing. Yuka Saso secures her winning spot for the US Women’s Open Golf championship. | Photo courtesy: USGA

SASO OUTLASTS HATAOKA By | Marjorie Tuno Olympic Club, San Francisco, California – Yuka Saso established her highlight as the first Filipino golf player to snatch the Championship title in the 76th U.S. Women’s Open Golf, June 7, 2021.

Saso flourished a birdie that ended the third playoff against Japan’s Nasa Hataoka to her advantage.

Before the victory, she gained

a rough start from the two double bogeys in her first three holes of the first game. Meanwhile, the end of the fourth round told a different story as the double 2018 Asian Games gold medalist unleashed walloping 2-chained birdies and a par in the last three holes of the match with 73 record.

Saso and Hataoka tied the first playoff hole with a par, as they

both bombarded a hook. Japan’s major winner Hataoka nailed a par again that fueled up her chances to secure the title. But her 19-year-old opponent refused to fall on her knees as she overcame all odds with a tricky putt to extend the playoffs to sudden death, leading the match.

“My caddie talked to me and said there are still many holes, and keep doing what I’ve been doing the pastt few days. Importantly, trust the process,” Saso remarked as she shared her greatest asset in winning the league.

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SPORTS

The Guardian

With integrity, we write.

Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

GOLDEN MOMENT:

DIAZ HANDS GOLD IN 2020 OLYMPICS By | Jamille Jane D. Dipol

Feminine power. Hidilyn Diaz carries the Philippine pride as she clutches the first gold medal. | Photo courtesy: CNN Philippines

For 20 years, the Philippines has been yearning for the perfect spot on the Olympic podium.

And now, the grail of glory was surprisingly achieved by a woman – as she finally brought home the glistering gold medal from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Since then, she’s become the renowned strong woman who possesses the toughness of Tarzan yet is presented to be as appealing as Jane.

BEHIND THE FLYING COLORS In a remote village of Mampang in Zamboanga City, Mindanao, a golden Olympian named Hidilyn Diaz was born. The glimpse of her life was just like the other leading player in a marvelous show – a roller coaster ride with a spectacular plot. Growing up in a family of eight, her father is a noble tricycle driver. To raise her family in obscene poverty, she desired to be a banker, to be closer to the bar of gold she craved for.

However, fate brought her on a different track as she met her cousin Catalino Diaz, a local weightlifter, and was introduced to the weightlifting game. Staring at a 10-year-old Hidilyn, Catalino visualized that she could play with barbells and plates. Their unexpected reunion is truly destined as it is where her Olympian journey started.

Back then, the materials used for training were limited.

Yet, they found alternatives from makeshifting barbells composed of plastic pipes with cast concrete weights at either end. Combining creativity and available resources, Hidilyn’s first handcrafted barbell then transformed into an unbreakable weightlifter.

LIFT FOR CHAMPIONSHIP From Mindanao, she traversed the Puerto Princesa, Palawan in Luzon to join in her first ever competition in the 2002 Batang Pinoy Games. She automatically clinched the gold medal because she was the only participant in the women’s weightlifting tournament.

She established her weightlifting career early since then, until she ventured into the 2007 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Thailand where she won the bronze medal in the 58-kilogram women’s weightlifting category.

A year later, her exemplary performance paved her global debut at the 2008 Beijing Olympics as a wild card entry at 17. The foreign venue was still unfamiliar to her, so her time to seal the gold early became vague. But she managed to rank 11th out of 12 weightlifters.

That moment opened the door of opportunity for her to shine in international competitions.

She once again tried her luck in SEA games by the year 2011 and 2013, those years she ascended to second place on the podium.

Meanwhile, in 2012 she was qualified for the London Olympics. Yet, failure tried to provoke her as she fell short of executing the 118-kilogram clean jerk attempts wherein she was labeled “did not finish” (DNF).

However, being the persevering person that she is, Hidilyn wasn’t discouraged at all; instead the result fueled her fire even more.

After conditioning herself for a striking comeback, she secured the winning spot in Asian Weightlifting Championship in 2015. The following year, she clutched a silver medal in the women’s 53 kg weightlifting category in the 2016 Summer Olympics held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

RETAINING HER SUPREMACY in the podium, she snatched a championship title in the 2018 Asian Games Women’s 53kg category, held in Indonesia. The former gained her recognition as the first filipina weightlifter who won gold in the Asian Games. During the 2019 Southeast Asian Games held in our country, she proved her undefeated skills by bagging the gold medal in the 55kg division. Another championship spot was attained in

the 55kg event at the Roma 2020 World Cup. At the recent start of the pandemic, the veteran weightlifter and her team were stranded in Malaysia. At that time, they were preparing for the qualifying event in Peru. Unfortunately, gyms were restricted to operate due to health protocols. She once again improvised her training equipment during quarantine, transforming her small room into an alternative gym.

The golden Olympian’s creativity is truly limitless. Instead of carrying hefty barbells, she crafted lifting sets out of water jugs and bamboo sticks. She also exercised pullups from door frames and sprinted up parking ramps to further enhance her strength and resistance.

Imagine, while we are ensuring our safety by the danger brought by the COVID-19, the persevering Hidilyn continued training using the makeshift equipment to stay in shape for the Tokyo Olympics.

Even the pandemic didn’t stop her from pursuing her passion. After four years of striving for gold in the Olympics, Hidilyn finally unlocked another achievement and created a historical remark in Philippine sports history. She earned the gold medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after surpassing the world champion Liao Qiuyun of China in the women’s 55kg weightlifting. Combining her strength and agility, the 30-year-old veteran weightlifter set an Olympic record, lifting a total of 224kg.

“As an athlete, we don’t stop when we fail once, even twice; the most important thing is we do our best, and at the end of the day, we won’t regret anything,” Hidilyn encouraged the aspiring Olympians to continue battling despite odds along the way.

Hidilyn’s victory is just the beginning of showcasing the Filipino’s pride – a catalyst to all aspiring athletes. Her achievement is not just her victory, but she also lifted the pride and glory of our country. Hidilyn’s fighting spirit in pursuing her dreams is truly an inspiration for every Filipino, especially the aspiring athletes. The first woman golden Olympian finally ruptured the chain of mediocrity.

She proved that in sports, there is no race and gender. A Filipino can compete and shine internationally, no matter how intimidating the other foreign players present in the match. A woman is also capable of executing actions like Tarzan can do and at the same time might be modest as Jane.

SPORTS 27

The Guardian With integrity, we write.

Vol 23 Issue 1 | September - December 2021

PASSION AND DETERMINATION

NESTHY PETECIO NOTCHES THE HISTORIC SILVER By | Jennica P. Maxian

Knockout. Nesthy Petecio aims for the rival’s jaw down to the silver title. | Photo courtesy: Frank Franlin II from Reuters

“Walang hinto hangga’t walang ginto!” Nesthy Alcayde Petecio vigorously fought foreign opponents in women’s featherweight held at Kokugikan Arena. She bagged the first-ever silver medal for the Philippines, against indomitable Japan’s bet, throughout the Olympics women’s boxing category since 1932.

Before further outshining the country’s pride in the boxing ring, Petecio was once a Davaoeña native who aspired to be a boxer as early as nine years old. Her family was very supportive of her passion in boxing, especially after she debuted – at the age of 11 – and won in a barangay tournament in the Araw ng Davao held at Rizal Park, Davao City.

Her ferocious victory led her to encounter Coach Nolito “Boy” Velasco. With her coach’s guidance, she managed to take away the gold title in Smart National Youth and Women’s Open Boxing Championships

50kg Category in Cagayan De Oro last 2007. Her conquest in this tournament is the key for her to partake in the Women’s National Team.

Nesthy Petecio revealed to CNN Philippines that her Coach Boy was her inspiration for having the courage to fight in the 2020 Toyo Olympics along with her beloved family.

The brave Filipino boxer started her conquest in the Olympics on July 24, 2021, against Marcelat Sakobi Matshu from the Republic of the Congo. First-round might not be in her favor, but with the powerful grips and punches in the second and third round, Nesthy ended the fight with a unanimous decision.

After sealing her first win, Nesthy and Nolito well-strategized her next fight as she was about to face the top-seeded boxer of Taiwan’s Lin-Yu-Ting. She later ended the match in her advantage via a split decision with scores of 29-28, 29-28, 29-28, 28-29, and

28-29.

“If I just attack, I’ll lose. I kept my distance and then attacked.

I stole punches. I didn’t look at our rankings. Our ranking now, our achievements before, do not matter,” Petecio narrated her clever win.

With two consecutive wins, Petecio gained confidence to defeat the following two foreign enemies for quarterfinals and semifinals. She first ousted Yeni Arias Castaneda of Colombia via unanimous decision then conquered Italian boxer, Irma Testa. Despite the height advantage of Testa, Petecio took over the last two rounds where she clashed aggressively combined with an intrusive offense, resulting in an exhilarating 4-1 score in favor of the Filipina athlete. Petecio snatched a ticket for finals where she was about to face a familiar foe from Japan.

Indomitable Petecio matched against the invincible Sena Irie of

Japan where two histories were built. The 29-year-old Filipina boxer battled tenaciously but struggled against the 20-year-old Japanese fighter. Irie was skillful enough to trap Petecio to cause the referee’s motion numerous times to get her off, especially on the second round where vigorous Petecio got her adrenalin-fueled up and adjacent to winning.

After the head-to-head match, Irie grabbed Japan’s first ever gold medal while Petecio humbly accepted the remarkable silver for the Philippines.

“This medal is not just for me: it’s for my country, it’s for my coach, for my best friend who died this year,” Petecio extended her dedication aside for her family.

The game is not yet over for Petecio after clutching the silver medal. She will continue her quest for the gold medal within the new ring of Paris in 2024, equipped with the motivation to conquer once again the Olympic stage.

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Breaking Gender Stereotypes

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FIRST FILIPINA REFEREE IN WNBL By | Marjorie Tuno

“Maraming babae na passion ang pag-babasketball at pagiging referee. Patunayan nila na hindi lang para sa lalaki ang laro at propesyon na ito.”

Being raised in a sportsinclined family gearing a tough fighting spirit, Cristina Columna proved that the field of sports and game officiating doesn’t limit to men. She took forward towards women’s recognition – alongside Haydee Ong, Emelia Vega, and Peque Tan – as the first Filipina international referee included in the Legends of Circles of Women’s National Basketball League (WNBL).

The sports veteran Columna, who started her game officiating skills in 1997, is also a basketball player since high school and currently a coach at Rizal Technological University and Polytechnic University of the Philippines. Indeed, Columna is a versatile and all-around ace inside the court. In other words, she can make the basketball game roll on her own.

Columna has shown that she is fond of sports at a very young age considering that she

knows how to play badminton, volleyball, and even dance sports.

Substantially, Columna exhibited her passion and interest in playing basketball which led her to seize the world inside the court in high school and took the risk of trying out in the national team after college.

Her determination and love for sports have brought her scholarship to study in Japan, contributing to her growth as a basketball player. Exploring the foreign court brought out her greatness and competitiveness.

She has been trained and conditioned well to be the best national representative that she can be. Her highlights in Japan contributed a lot to what she is now and still applies to her life as a basketball player and as an instrument for the aspirants.

Columna bagged achievements and trophies that unveiled how passionate and hardworking she is on her field with a long journey inside the court. When Columna was still dominating the basketball venue, she earned a silver medal for the Philippines in the Southeast Asian (SEA)

Outbound. Cristina Columna proves women’s place to spearhead teams as the first Filipina international referee. | Photo by Christian Columna

Games in 2001. Also, she received acknowledgments when she was playing in Japan. Apart from that, Columna became the Most Valuable Player and Athlete of the Year, including her recognition to become one of the mythical five when she was on her university’s basketball team.

Even Columna unleashed what she all got and snatched recognition chains as a basketball player. Unfortunately, her career phase reached its end as she had suffered a major injury that paralyzed her passion for continuing playing inside the court. Subsequently, one door may have closed for her, but taking the guts to undergo the international referee examination brought her to the path of game officiating and coaching.

Although Columna has let go of her basketball journey, her career inside the court is still dribbling since she became an international referee and a team coach.

Powered by determination and upholding spirit as a game official, Columna endured all the struggles she faced while conquering the court.

It has come to the point that people mock her decisionmaking skills as a

referee. Most of the crowd cursed her and made her feel that she was not entitled as the game’s official, but Columna does not let them bring her on her knees and stop her passion. She flaunted her way towards a professional at all costs and did not mind those who doubted her officiating ability.

Indeed, the key to becoming an effective referee is to possess a bold personality and tolerance in all aspects.

Throughout her journey inside the court, Columna highlighted that doing what we love and what makes us happy is all that matters.

It also required longing for improvement as we progressed over time. Considering that we are promised to live like a roll of dice, we must learn to have the guts to take all the risks. The path of being a basketball player and game official is vast as a basketball court. It has a lot to offer. Hence, it could also dictate the profession and career that you will enter.

All in all, Columna substantiated that she’s more than a woman in sports. Moreover, she is an inspiration for all the aspiring game officials, especially women, to start to conquer and walk a path towards the court even if society tells them that being a basketball player and referee is not meant for girls. Alongside with her are other women who are beginning to break the gender stereotypes and flaunt that females can spearhead a team towards victory, as Cristina Columna proved in the international league.

After being included in the WNBL Legends Circles, Columna aimed to launch a virtual game officiating tutorial in times of pandemic.

She believed that no amount of time should be wasted as she aimed to train more aspiring Filipina referees and encouraged them to widen their recognition in the field of male-dominating sport.