Ateneans join forces in support of IP Education Bill
Ateneo honors excellence in service in Traditional University Awards
Photocopy operators await five-month contract renewal
A quarter of a century for Ateneo Aikido
Training the body, the mind, and the soul
NEWS, 2
NEWS, 3
NEWS, 4
SPORTS, 10
SPORTS, 11
T H E OF F ICI A L ST U DEN T PU BL IC AT ION OF T H E AT EN EO DE M A N I L A U N I V ER SI T Y VOL. LXXXVII, NO. 3 · OCTOBER 2016
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Quilatan new Sanggunian VP BY GABY N. BAIZAS AND LOREBEN LL. TUQUERO
It’s official. Carmela Vinzon (Independent) and Koko Quilatan (IgnITE) are the newly elected Sanggunian President and Vice President respectively, according to a Commission on Elections (COMELEC) memo released on October 10, 2016. Ferdy Acosta (IgnITE) was elected as the new School of Humanities (SOH) Representative, while Neicy Pilarca (IgnITE) was named as the School of Science and Engineering (SOSE) Representative. Christian Dy (Independent) won the position of School of Social Sciences (SOSS) Representative. According to COMELEC, 19.81% of the total student population voted. This accounts for 1,638 out of 8,270 students. This school year’s elections is also the first elections under the newly ratified Constitution written by the Constitutional Convention in SY 2015–2016, which abolished quota for elections and replaced the Finance Officer and Secretary General positions with Central Assembly Committees and four School Assemblies. Ateneo COMELEC Chief Commissioner Patrice Gabito stated that COMELEC had to take on the difficulties due to the abolition of quota into account when modifying this year’s elections according to the new Constitution. “We wanted this elections to be really visible, na magpar ticipate talaga ‘yung student body (We wanted this elections to be really visible, where the student body would really participate),” she said. The election proper took place on October 5-7 in multiple voting stations located around campus. OFFICER PLATFORMS
Vinzon wanted to run for President as she believed in a Sanggunian that “allows the student body to question, analyze, and act towards OPINION On the President’s new foreign policy
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plans to prioritize pushing for a comprehensive curriculum review for all courses and to review the core curriculum for the next generations of Ateneans who have undergone the K-12 curriculum. “As a student body involved, I think that it’s important that we’re part of the actual process [of reviewing the curriculum] and this is what I really aim for at my platform, [to be] really more set on having an education that is for us, and also by us,” he said. For his part, SOH Rep. Acosta believes in the capacity of the Sanggunian to do more, which he thought of when he was writing his platform, which focused on engagement, establishing and fortifying relations, and improving student services. “I think that we can use the arts and the humanities with different mediums that you have...visual arts, we have
theater arts, and others, to make a stand,” he said. SOSS Rep. Dy planned to pursue three thrusts during his term: lipunan, kalikasan, and laylayan (society, the environment, and the marginalized). He wants to focus on the rights of students and will gauge change by seeing if SOSS has started discourse, achieved cha nges in the Magna Carta, and has been able to plan for the future. Moreover, P ila rca ra n for the position of SOSE Representative as a means to pay it forward. She wants to empower young scientists by pushing for national engagement, pushing for students to stay in their career path, and helping the university in terms of research.
tions “vibrant,” due to the abolition of quota. “[Students] should still vote, even though walang quota. Parang nawala kasi ‘yung pressure ([Students] should still vote, even though there isn’t a quota. It feels like there isn’t any pressure),” said Gabito. COMELEC also worked on the electoral code to include sectoral representation, as soon as the Student Judicial Court approved the provisions. G a bito a l s o e x p e c t e d the students to ta ke the initiative in creating the next Sanggunian and called them to exercise their right to vote. “What I expect from them is to know this Constitution, to follow this Constitution, and at the same time, participate in the execution of such Constitution
NEW CONSTITUTION
Gabito sa id COM ELEC focused on making this elec-
SANGGUNIAN ELECTION › 5
Ateneans show solidarity with human rights victims in ADMU-DLSU game
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national issues, and issues within the context of the Atenean community.” “There is always the question of apathy, but I strongly believe that apathy is not an issue in itself, but a symptom of the mindset of our generation, and our current student body. I believe it is due to our student population lacking in the political education and mindset, and personal confidence to engage with national issues,” she explained. Vinzon decided to focus on student capacity building, as she stated it was “the necessary first step to build a studentpowered student government.” “If the students are empowered to engage, then the Sanggunian f lourishes as its representative. A critical student body begets a healthy Sanggunian,” she added. Vinzon also plans to push for POS 100 (Politics and Governance) to be taught in freshman year and to launch campaigns centered on making political involvement more relatable to the individual context of the student and centered on education and framing the understanding of the student’s current situation. On the other hand, Quilatan planned to create a Committee on Student Formation in charge of the holistic formative experience in the Loyola Schools. Quilatan envisions that the student body will soon be able to “make the kind of positive impact upon the community at large” in the students’ own individual ways. Quilatan also wanted to establish a Committee on Fiscal Affairs that will promote financial transparency, as he added that he “strongly believes that [the student body] deserves to know where their money is going.” Ot her commit tees a nd offices that Quilatan plans to establish include the Committee for Socio-Political Engagement in charge of engaging students in current social issues, and the Office of Legal Aid in charge of assisting students with disciplinary cases. Quilatan’s platform is also centered on education, and it
ON FRIDAY, September 30, 2016, University President Jett Villarin, SJ invited all those watching the University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Men’s Basketball game between Ateneo and De La Salle University (DLSU) on Sunday to wear black clothing or accessories. This was to show solidarity with the victims
of human rights violations, as well as to oppose the burial of former President Ferdinand Marcos in the Libingan ng mga Bayani and the growing number of extrajudicial killings across the nation. As the grueling battle between long-time archrivals commenced, the Mall of Asia Arena appeared to be a sea of blue, green, and black. Most of the members of the Ateneo community heeded the call by wearing black shirts and acces-
sories, as they firmly supported the cause against the different moral issues within our country. However, there were a few who opposed this, believing that the university was bringing Philippine politics into the realm of collegiate sports. Despite many critics believing that this was partisan initiative by the Ateneo, Villarin clarifies that this symbolic gesture is a matter of taking a moral stand on the human rights issues teeming in our
country. “Here, we are doing this as a gesture of concern for the culture of violence that we are seeing,” said Villarin. Villarin further elaborates that this gesture is also being done for the youth, to create awareness that the traumatic events happening in our country are creating moral issues. “As I said to the others, [I am] concerned about the impact on this on the young people, the sense of right and wrong, and this is something
that we have to make a stand on,” he said. This decision to invite both communities to this gesture had been made long before the match through a suggestion in the meetings of the Ateneo ad m i n ist rat ion. Vi l la r i n extended the invitation to the DLSU’s University President Br. Raymundo Suplido, who agreed to the unifying action. ATENEANS SHOW › 5
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Ateneans join forces in support of IP Education Bill
Ateneans consider gov’t service in light of current admin BY MICHELLE D. ABAD AND SAMANTHA O. SUBIDA
BY FAITH T. LIM AND ANDREA L. TAGUINES
THE COALITION of Ateneans for Indigenous People (CAIP) spearheaded the campaign to support House Bill 4220 or the IP Education Systems Act of 2014 by planning to hold an IP Week together with other organizations inside the Ateneo campus. This came after the bill’s proponent Ifugao Rep. Teodoro Baguilat Jr. met with representatives from CAIP, Baybayin, Ateneo Assembly, Development Society of Ateneo (DevSoc), and the Union of Students for the Advancement of Democracy (USAD) last August 26. “We talked about activities that we could do to give recognition to the IPs and to celebrate their diversity in campus. Also, it’s our first ever IP Week so we’re looking forward to that,” said CAIP Head Dane Ancheta. Ancheta also said that they gave their comments and suggestions on how to further improve the bill and are planning to release infographics to gain more support for both the advocacy and the bill from the general public. Aside from that, they are also willing to lobby for said bill in Congress or in the Senate if needed. Sanggunian Deputy for Advocacy Management Karin Bangsoy said she is happy that more and more advocacy groups of the Ateneo are engaging in the political issues of the country. “Engaging decision makers and policy makers are really a big part in pushing for an advocacy in the real world so we want to help the student orgs do that and hopefully connect them to congressmen and senators in the future,” she added. “SCHOOLS RUN BY IPS FOR THE IPS”
The IP Education Systems Act of 2014 is an act recognizing and institutionalizing the IP educational systems within the existing Philippine Educational Systems. “It aims to promote and develop IP cultures, traditions and institutions,” said DevSoc President Alex Fontanilla. As part of an indigenous group, she believes this bill can address the disconnect between what IPs learn in school and what they actually experience in their everyday lives. “They’re part of this community and eto iyong context nila, but they are studying [in] a formal education system that doesn’t recognize their diversity,” she said. According to her, Baguilat is also pushing to train IP educators to become superintendents of the Department of Education (DepEd) so they could continue
to monitor the bill after it is passed. With regards to this, Ancheta hopes to stop certain issues faced by Lumad schools last year such as the closing down of IP schools that do not fit the standards and other bureaucratic processes imposed by the DepEd. As the 17th Congress begins session, Baguilat plans to file a revised bill this September with more inputs from organizations who work with the IP sector and from the IPs themselves. IP WEEK
According to Bangsoy, Baguilat wanted student volunteers to push for the bill on the ground as he pushes for it in Congress. He believes that raising the level of people’s awareness of the IP advocacy and gaining their support is crucial to the passing of the bill. In response to this, CAIP, DevSoc, USAD, Baybayin, Loyola Mountaineers, Barefoot Philippines, and Ateneans for Agrarian Reform Movement will hold an IP Week inside Ateneo on October 17-22, just in time for the National Indigenous Peoples’ Month. “We will conduct Kapihan Sessions (forums), IP Advocacy Workshops, an IP Advocacy Fair, film showing and a museum tour sa Museum of the Filipino People,” said Fontanilla. Aside from students, they also plan to partner with IP rights advocate Albert Alejo, SJ, Michael Liberatore from the Theology Department, and Baguilat himself who they plan to invite as guest speaker. IP Week aims to situate the indigenous people into the national socio-political context and at the same time, highlight the richness of their culture. “We want the Ateneo community to be more familiar with what is happening to our IP brothers and sisters, we want them to know that there is something deeper in their culture and tradition, that there is much more to learn, to be understood, and so much more for us to love,” said Baybayin President Marc Vanguardia. Fontanilla believes this can be done by starting with Ateneans whom we know are IPs because they could be “the window through which we engage with the IP advocacy”. “KASAMA NATIN SILANG UUNLAD”
Staying true to the bill’s objective of highlighting the diversity of IPs, there are also plans to have an IP Pride Campaign for Ateneans who are members of indigenous groups. “Kasi I think ang daming students dito na from Mindanao, from Visayas,
INDIGENOUS CRUSADER. Ifugao Representative Teddy Baguilat meets with student leaders to coordinate action on the IP Bill.
RECENT CONTROVERSIES surrounding the first 100 days of President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration sparked discourse and commentary from the Atenean community about the prospects of working for the government after graduation. Some of the controversial issues include the extrajudicial killings and threatening statements towards other heads of state such as United States President Barack Obama. Despite this, the Bagumbayani Initiative, an unaccredited organization in the Ateneo aimed towards the promotion of civil service to the youth, continues to stand by its advocacy amidst the declining appeal towards the government work.
PHOTO BY TWINKLE R. LIBOON
they’re part of IP groups, pero walang institutionalized way to identify them,” said Fontanilla. She hopes to encourage IPs to not just recognize their roots, but celebrate it as well. According to Ateneo Assembly Vice President for Financial Logistics Yna Lim, many IPs have become ashamed of their identity. “Napag-iiwanan ang kultura nila, ang practice nila… mas pinipili nilang makibagay. Dahil dito, nawawala ang identity nila bilang indigenous people (They’re leaving behind their cultures and practices for conformity. Because of this, they are losing their identities as indigenous people),” she said. Fontanilla believes that being an IP is “not something you should hide because in identifying with it, it’s also attached to your being Filipino.” “We want everyone to understand that the Filipino culture is not a singular homogenous culture. Sometimes we highlight our differences too much that we only see Bisaya, Muslim, and not our brothers and sisters who are also Filipino,” Vanguardia said. IP Week will be held in celebration of the culture and traditions of the indigenous people. However, according to Lim and Vanguardia, it is also a solemn event in support of our fellow Filipinos. “We want people to feel the pain and the struggle of our brother and sisters, to open our eyes to what is happening and to feel the need to make action,” said Vanguardia. “It’s about time na may gawin tayo for the indigenous people, and it begins with this,” Lim added. “Ang kulturang Filipino, binubuo ng iba’t ibang klaseng hibla na iba iba din ang kulay, kung kaya’t lalo siyang tumitingkad at lalong gumaganda, dahil sa mga pagkakaiba na nito, kailangan lang nating mahanap kung paano natin siya ipagsasama-sama sa iisang tela (Filipino culture is made up of a variety of threads in different colors and it is through this diversity that it becomes brighter and more beautiful. We just need to find how we can weave them into a single piece of cloth),” said Vanguardia.
ROAD LESS TRAVELLED?
According to a survey conducted by the Loyola Schools Office of Placement and Career Services among
738 respondents, of 384 Ateneans who graduated in 2014 and are currently working, 5.21% entered into government service within a year of graduation. From 2006 to 2014, Batch 2013 reported the highest percentage of Ateneans entering government, at 8.77% of 228 currently working alumni. AMBIVALENT VIEWS
Ateneans gave mixed reactions when asked to consider job opportunities in the government. Several Ateneans claimed that the performance of the current administration influenced their take on civil service. Management Economics sophomore Sophia Valencia said that she initially had no intention of working for the government. However, given the current President’s leadership, she has been further convinced to dismiss the idea. Similarly, ManagementHonors sophomore Denisse De Guzman said that government work no longer appeals to her. “No. I [don’t want] work for someone who believes that
killing people can solve the problem,” De Guzman said. However, several Ateneans see the situation in a different light. According to Creative Writing senior Katrina Bonillo, given the current situation, she is all the more willing to work for the government after graduation. “Now more than ever, the government needs the youth who are not only exposed to and are critical of the administration, but are also willing to take any step that may be crucial in changing unjust structures,” said Bonillo. She added that the presence of the youth in the government may contribute new viewpoints that current politicians can think about. Meanwhile, Management Engineering senior Paolo Parungo expressed that the shortcomings of the administration did not influence his willingness to enter government work. “There are still a lot of sectors in the Philippines that need help, there are still a lot ATENEANS CONSIDER › 5
Amnesty International brings mov’t to Ateneo
PHOTO BY ALIYAH ROJO
BY ANGELICA S. ANDAYA AND LUIS M. MILLARES
GLOBAL HUMAN rights group Amnesty International (AI) launched a local chapter in the Ateneo during the Un a c c r e d it e d S t ude nt Groups Recruitment Period on September 20–22 in the Loyola Schools. The launching of the AI branch in the Ateneo comes in the wake of President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial “War on Drugs,” which has seen a rise in human rights violations, specifically involving extrajudicial killings (EJKs). Ateneans with Amnesty International PH garnered 210 applicants during the recruitment period. According to President Selina Miranda, the large number of applicants caught them by surprise. “Our target actually was only 80 members, but then we reached 210. It was so overwhelming,” Miranda said. She added that most of the
applicants already knew about AI beforehand, owing to the popularity of the organization outside of the campus. Vice President Ika Adamos echoed the same sentiments but emphasized the importance of the involvement of the Ateneo community as a whole. Adamos hopes that the entire Ateneo community will soon follow suit and get involved. AI is a non-government organization that advocates for the safeguarding of human rights. It is a worldwide movement that is supported by over seven million people from 150 countries. ADDRESSING NATIONAL CONCERNS
M i ra nd a p oi nte d out that the organization is not necessarily against the Duterte administration, but the EJKs occurring under his rule. “We are non-political; we are non-economical; we are a nonreligious organization,” she said. “All we want actually is an unbiased, impartial investigation on these accounts.”
Meanwhile, AI Philippines Campaigns Manager Wilnor Papa highlighted that more people are needed “to press and to communicate their concerns and what they think the government should do with regards to these concerns.” “That’s why mataas ang value natin sa freedom of expression, kasi dito nalalaman ng gobyerno kung anong kailangan natin (this is how the government is able to know our needs),” Papa said. He also stressed that Amnesty International is just one part of the human rights community whose aim is to spread the word on the importance of one’s rights. “ The more people who know about their rights, the more people who will work on their rights and the rights of others, is going to be very beneficial for this country in the long run,” Papa added. AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL › 5
EDITOR: LIAM C. LU · EDITOR: MICHELLE D. ABAD · LAYOUT ARTIST: MEG F. VILLENA
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PHOTO ESSAY
Ateneo honors excellence in service in Traditional University Awards BY MARIEL L. ZAMORA
THE ATENEO de Manila Univer sit y honore d one foundation and four individuals at the Traditional University Awards as part of the annual Special Academic Convocation held on September 27 at the Henry Lee Irwin Theatre. The awards are given in recognition of each recipient’s excellent exemplification of the university’s values in their respective field. The recipients of the awards are Aga Mayo Butocan, Beatriz Tesoro, Austere Panadero, Justice Adolfo Azcuna, and the Tzu Chi Foundation.
on the kulintang in her honor during the intermission. Fashion pioneer Beatriz “Patis” Tesoro was also given the Gawad Tanglaw ng Lahi Award. She is best known for her commitment to the revival of traditional Philippine textiles, with a special attention to piña cloth. She also reinvented the traditional Philippine wear of baro’t saya by designing it to be worn as casual street-wear in the modern times. Moreover, she acted as a social activist during the decline of the production of piña cloth in the 1990s and has since shifted her attention to the revival of cotton production. GOVERNMENT SERVICE AWARD
PARANGAL LINGKOD SAMBAYANAN
T he Parangal Lingko d Sambayanan was conferred upon the Tzu Chi Foundation, the world’s biggest Buddhist humanitarian organization. While the foundation has been in the country for 22 years, it was greeted with great fanfare for the “great speed” and “efficiency” of its relief operations in Leyte after the Typhoon Yolanda disaster in 2013. The foundation has other programs in education, medicine, environmental protection, and the promotion of humanistic values. Moreover, the foundation carries out these programs with “ joy, peace, kindness, and compassion.” GAWAD TANGLAW NG LAHI AWARD
Widely re garde d a s a “ Maguindanaon kulint ang master,” Aga Mayo Butocan received the Gawad Tanglaw ng Lahi Award. Butocan introduced the youth to the “beauty, complexity, and richness” of indigenous musical tradition through her revival of kulintang music. She has been teaching kulintang music for more than forty years at the University of the Philippines Diliman. While it had never been formally taught in institutions, she pioneered a notation system to teach her students how to play the instrument. Five of her students gave a performance
Government Service Awardee Austere Panadero has served the government for more than 35 years under six presidents and 11 secretaries in the Department of Interior and Local Governance (DILG). While undergoing many changes in leadership in the DILG, Undersecretary Panadero is honored for maintaining stability and continuity in his policies and programs with “utmost excellence” and “unquestionable integrity.” LUX-IN-DOMINO AWARD
Justice Adolfo Azcuna received the Lux-in-Domino Award, which is conferred upon exemplary alumni. University President Jose Villarin, SJ called Azcuna “a portrait of an ideal Atenean graduate.” He served for more than fifty years in the judicial and executive branches of government, most notably as the Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. He currently serves as the Chancellor of the Philippine Judicial Academy. His “most enduring legacy” is the writ of amparo, which secures the protection of one’s right to life, liberty, and security. Moreover, he was also recognized for continually upholding the university values of “honesty, integrity, and service.” In his welcoming remarks, Villarin said “all five [awardees] have enriched our lives as human beings. By their passions and their ardentness, they have shown us what makes up for grit, toughness, and resilience.”
PHOTOS BY YURI TAN
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News
Mocha Uson, Matanglawin clash over ‘Tanganglawin’
PHOTOS BY GAB R. MESINA
BY MICHELLE D. ABAD AND LIAM C. LU
BLOGGER MOCH A Uson stirred controversy online when she confronted Ateneo publication Matanglawin over their lampoon issue titled “MOCHANG TANGA BLOG.” In a Facebook post, she shared a picture of the said issue and asked whether or not it was being passed around in the university. Uson published the post on October 14. As of October 19, it has garnered over 7,000 shares and 3,000 comments. According to Matanglawin’s rejoinder post on the same day, the MOCHANG TANGA BLOG was “Tanganglawin,” the publication’s annual satirical issue. IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Many of Uson’s followers instead bashed the Atenean community itself. Uson posted a comment defending Ateneans when she heard that the issue was being secretly distributed around the campus. “Patago daw na pinamimigay. Kasama ng ibang reading material ng school mismo. Wag po natin lahatin ang mga Atenista. Naniniwala ako madami diyan ang mahal nila bayan natin. Tulad na din ng ibang mga kaibigan ko. Meron lang talagang iilang tinatamaan ng pagbabago ni Pangulo kaya ganyan maka react (I heard that the issue is being secretly distributed, along with other reading materials of the school. Let’s not generalize the Ateneans. I believe that many of them love our nation, just like my other friends. There are just some that feel targeted by our president’s changes and so that’s why they react),” she said in her comment. This, in turn, was corrected by many Ateneans who commented that the issue was being mass distributed in the campus. “It’s crazy that she judged the whole publication based on the photo of the cover,” Matanglawin Editor-in-Chief Rambo Talabong
said. He also noted that after they posted a rejoinder towards Uson’s post, the comments section was comprised of people who defended the publication. “When we published a clarification of it as a lampoon, the comments section was dominated not by the bashers, but by the supporters of the issue, the publication, and the Ateneo,” he said. According to Talabong, Tanganglawin aims to give readers information that the organization believes they need concerning issues that cater to the marginalized. “Through satire, we hope to give a variety of content delivery in the Ateneo while still maintaining the same objectives of journalism: to inform,” he said. For Talabong, the fact that the publication was able to garner the reactions it did establishes that their project was a success. “To us, it just completes the project of the satire, that those who read it at face value end up being identified and in the end realize that they need to read the whole thing, just as how many only read headlines these days in social media,” he added. SPREAD OF INFORMATION
On October 16, Uson posted another update, this time of a screenshot of Talabong’s work information as Editor-in-Chief of Matanglawin and as an intern of Rappler, along with a proposed theory that Rappler was attacking her through the Tanganglawin. This screenshot was the only form of information given to her. “Could this be one of the reasons why I was used as front of Matanglawin’s satire? You know that I’m one of the people criticizing [R]appler’s way of reporting. So ito ba ang way nila ng pag-atake sa akin pabalik na hindi ginagamit mismo ang [R]appler (So is this their way of getting back at me, someone who doesn’t even use Rappler)?” her post read. Matanglawin took Uson’s post as a surprise as they did
not expect her to react as she did upon obtaining information about the publication. Talabong said that although the post was “baseless” to begin with, he felt that it was “quite tricky” to deal with since she provided the link of his Facebook profile to her four million followers. When a friend of his informed him of the post, he immediately set his profile to private before Uson’s followers could contact him. On the same evening Uson’s second update was posted, Matanglawin released a statement addressing the incidents on their Facebook page. They reinforced the function of the satire piece and accused MOCHA USON BLOG of erroneous use of social media and cyberbullying Talabong. OFFICIAL STATEMENT
Matanglawin’s statement rejected Uson’s claim that Talabong’s internship at Rappler influenced their political stance. “Walang isang ideolohiyang ibinabandila ang publikasyon, at layon din nito na ilantad ang iba’t ibang sakit ng lipunan sa isang mapayapa at mapanghamon na paraan (There is no ideology brandished by the publication and its only purpose is to expose the different illnesses of society in a free and confrontational manner),” the statement read. The publication called on Uson to take down the post with Talabong’s information, calling it a form of cyberbullying. “Ang paglalantad ng personal na impormasyon nang walang pahintulot mula sa taong nagmamay-ari nito ay isang anyo ng cyberbullying at paglabag ng kalayaan sa pamamahayag na inimandato ng pambansang konstitusyon (The disclosure of personal information without the permission of the owner is a form of cyberbullying and a violation of the freedom of journalists mandated by the Constitution),” the statement read. The publication chastised Uson for not verifying sources first before posting, opting to
post online in order to confirm issues submitted to her. Matanglawin called on her to exhaust all sources first before posting on social media. “Hindi tama at hindi maayos na paraan ang paghingi ng sagot mula sa mga tagasubaybay sapagkat pawang mga spekulasyon at pang-aatake lamang ang
ibubunga nito (It is not right to survey your followers for verification because these posts are mere speculation and this will only lead to c on f l ic t),” M a t a n g l aw i n said. “Kailangan ang mga kuko ng lawing daragit sa mga dagang ngumangatngat sa yaman ng bansa at ahas na lumilingkis sa dangal at
karapatan ng mga maralita. Kaya’t ang Matanglawin ay bumabangon upang tumugon (The talons of the falcon shall swoop over the rats chewing on the riches of the nation and snakes constricting the honor and rights of the needy. This is why Matanglawin is rising to the call).”
The GUIDON October 2016
Vinzon wins
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Ateneans show
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that they voted for,” she said. Dy remarked t hat how t he elections ran did not rely on the new Constitution, but on COMELEC itself. “I think the Constitution does not change elections, I think the Constitution only changes whether we fill positions or not. So we’re gonna fill more positions, but regarding how the elections are conducted and how people are participating in the elections, it depends on COMELEC,” he stated. SENTIMENTS
Q u i lat a n v iewed t he turnout as good given the school’s decreased population due to the smaller freshman population this year. He is also willing to “spearhead initiatives that will really foster an even more successful elections next year.” On the other hand, Acosta expressed disappointment over the voter turnout, but sees it as a challenge for the school representatives, along with the newly elected Sanggunian, to earn the student body’s trust. “I believe that the low voter turnout shows that the majority still doesn’t believe in the Sanggunian... the road ahead is tough, but I am hopeful,” he said.
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Villarin has also been talking to ot her UA A P schools regarding this matter and the schools are also open to extend the invitation to the entire UAAP community. “[I have] been talking to other FEU and some of them are open to it to not being an AteneoDLSU thing only, but for the entire UAAP,” added Villarin. University Athletics Office Director and Ateneo UAAP
board member Emmanuel Fernandez further clarifies Villarin’s stand that the gesture was not a requirement by the university, but it was a personal invitation to take part in the cause if one believes in it. “You [do not] need to ask UAAP ‘can we do this?’ because it’s not part of the agenda or program,” said Fernandez. “It was just said that if you’re watching the game, you’re believing in this point of view, please show your
support. Wear black or put on something black.” Atenean undergraduates who attended the game also responded to the call of the university, as they personally felt that the cause was relevant. Management senior Paolo Resurrecion firmly believes that this was stand on morality and not that of politics. “For me, it’s not about politics or pointing fingers at anyone, it’s more of me showing unity with the different issues in our country right now, such as extrajudicial
Amnesty International
killings,” says Resurreccion. “It’s about basic human values.” Management Engineering senior Lexie Eala also shares the same sentiments as Resurreccion and believes that this was good opportunity to show support for the human rights victims. “I think it’s a pretty strong issue these days and I want to [take] a stand against it,” said Eala. “It’s a good a way of showing your support to the cause, even if it’s something menial.”
In line with this, Miranda said that she hopes t hat AI in Ateneo will become more embedded in the university’s culture. “I want us to have an attitude of promoting a nd defend i ng not ju s t ou r rights but other people’s rights as well, especially as Ateneans,” she said. REVIVAL OF THE MOVEMENT
According to Papa, this is not the first partnership between AI and Ateneo. The organization had been established way back in 1984, with Ateneo and University of the Philippines (UP) as its pioneer groups. He said that Senator Risa Hontiveros was the front woman for Ateneo back then, while Commission on Human Rights Chairperson Chito Gascon was her counterpart for UP. Papa also said that the organization has expanded to other
Philippine universities, such as Ateneo de Davao, Ateneo de Za mboa nga, U P Ba g uio, Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP), Far Eastern University (FEU), and De La Salle University (DLSU). With regards to organizing AI in universities, Papa said that AI needs people who can actually be mobilized to support human rights. “ We need able -bod ied people, people who a re pa ssionate about huma n rights a nd cha nging t he situation, not just in the Philippines but in different parts of the world,” he said. More over, Adamos mentioned that Ateneo’s recent initiative sprung from the ideas of Abby Payumo, one of her friends who was a volunteer for AI Australia during her Junior Term Abroad (JTA) and wanted to bring AI to the Ateneo. It was after JTA when they “star ted conceptua lizing,
PHOTO BY JOHN P. ORANGA
Editor’s note: The people who claimed to not support the cause refused to be interviewed by T he GU IDON due to personal reasons.
Ateneans consider... ‹2
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FIGHTING SPIRIT. The Mall of Asia Arena was a sea of blue, green, and black during the UAAP Men’s Basketball game between Ateneo and De La Salle University.
arranging documents and reached out to AI mismo,” according to Adamos. ATENEANS FOR HUMAN RIGHTS
Adamos said that they want the Ateneo community to be knowledgeable about human rights because “it’s not just applicable in the present situation but it’s going to be applicable for the rest of our lives.” “They always say ‘kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan,’ and I think it would be nice kung magiging pag-asa tayo (we become hope) in a sense that we know what we’re fighting for.” According to Miranda, the Ateneo branch is deeply rooted in being “men and women for others.” As for Ateneans advocating for human rights, she said that Ateneans “have a sort of influence, and I want to use that for the good.” Adamos mentioned that Ateneans have always been active on social media and
CAMPUS CAMPAIGNS. AI PH Campaigns Director Wilnor Papa said that the organization has spread throughout college campuses throughout the country.
of Filipinos who have concerns that aren’t being addressed.” said Parungo. In addition, supersenior Alo Lantin (AB DS ’16, BS CTM ’17) notes that the good in the government deserves attention more than the bad. “Good people in the government working hard to do good things in an ethical way for the sake of the country is welcome any day of the week, and now more than ever given the current social climate.” Lantin said. Furthermore, Lantin said that dissatisfaction should be more of a driving force in working for the government. “If you don’t like what the government is doing right now, why not hop in there and try to make some change and try being that good person you think the government means? Because if you think about it, if you give up on the government and leave it to these people you don’t agree with, then the government isn’t going to change and nothing is going to change,” he added.
PHOTO BY ALIYAH ROJO
NEED FOR YOUTH
that it is a great arena in imparting AI’s message. “If AI gets its message across to people, sana we’ll be able to spark a change in the youth, at least for now, to start fighting for the things that matter,” she said.
In lig ht of this, Bagumbayani President Lyonel Tanganco maintained that in order to correctly address our concerns with the present government, misconceptions that come with this type of work must be cleared out. Tanganco has had experience working at the Department of Finance. “There are plenty of fears that surround government work. I think that a lot of them involve practica l considerations, like the pay, the training, and the notion that ‘makakain ka ng sistema’ (the system will devour
you),” Tanganco noted, also disputing the notion that the government is full of corrupt and incompetent people. On the other hand, Bagumbayani member Robie Miranda believes in the power and potential of the modern youth. “The youth isn’t powerless. We have in our hands the potential to shape the nation’s future—a power that can be made stronger through early exposure to government initiatives and active participation in the pursuit of clean and effective governance. Technology is on our side as well,” he said. Tanganco believes that we should use our concerns as a motivation to go into the government and address them ourselves. “I think that we often complain about how lousy and ineffective our government is, so why don’t we join it instead?” he said. Tanganco assured Ateneans that the upcoming projects for Bagumbayani are steps toward the goal of inspiring the students to join the civil service. “I think that what we can promise also is the companionship of really passionate and talented young people who have been or are still in the civil service,” Tanganco added. As for upcoming projects, Miranda notes that the organization is currently preparing for an upcoming conference intended “to advertise the government as a desirable career path after graduation in terms of impact, personal growth, and even pay scale.”
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Opinion
VOLUME LXXXVII, NO. 3 OCTOBER 2016
The GUIDON Founded 1929 by Rev. Frank O’Hara, SJ First Editor-in-Chief, Manuel C. Colayco, AB ‘30 PURPOSE
To serve as a record of Ateneo history in the making; to serve as an organ of journalistic expression; to serve God and country.
Frances Christine P. Sayson, AB LIT (ENG) ‘17 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Katrina Isabelle G. Pimentel, BS CTM ‘17 ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Alfonso Miguel N. Sevidal, BS ME ‘17 MANAGING EDITOR
Nicolina G. Solinap, BFA ID ‘17 DESIGN EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Liam Calvin C. Lu, AB EC ‘18 NEWS EDITOR
Beatrice Lauren T. Go, BS MGT ‘17 SPORTS EDITOR
Robbin Charles M. Dagle, AB COM ‘18 BEYOND LOYOLA EDITOR
Adrian M. Goh, BS ME ‘18 FEATURES EDITOR
Rachel Esmeralda Gabrielle O. Lombos, BS ME ‘17 INQUIRY EDITOR
EDITORIAL CARTOON BY RICHARD MERCADO
Angela Carmela R. Natividad, BFA CW ‘16/AB PH ‘17 Danielle Clarice D. Reyes, BS LFSCI ‘18 VANTAGE EDITORS
Gabrielle Therese R. Mesina, BFA ID ‘18 Patrick T. Ong, BS MAC ‘18 PHOTOS EDITORS
Diana F. David, BFA ID ‘18 Clarissa Joyce R. Gorreon, BFA ID ‘17 GRAPHIC DESIGN EDITORS
Margarita Claudette V. Chuatico, AB COM ‘17 Miguel Antonio S. Murga, BS MGT ‘17 VIDEO PRODUCTION EDITORS
Carlos Alberto L. Arcenas, BSMS CS ‘19 DIGITAL MEDIA EDITOR
Jamie Lucille C. Catanes, BS LM ‘17 TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
Andrea Coleen V. Tubig, BFA CW ‘17 EXTERNALS MANAGER
Briane B. Dela Peña, AB COM ‘18 Janine Ysabel B. Peralta, AB SOS ‘17 SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGERS
NEWS Michelle D. Abad, Editorial Assistant; Angelica A. Andaya, Gaby N. Baizas, Faith T. Lim, Luis M. Millares, JM Munar, Bea P. Santiano, Thea A. Siscar, Samantha O. Subida, Andrea L. Taguines, Loreben Ll. Tuquero, Mariel L. Zamora SPORTS Vincent D. Soliven; Editorial Assistant, Lorenzo C. Aycardo, Carlos H. Cruz, James B. Gavina, Brittany J. Go, Kirby G. Jalandoni, Jamie S. Katigbak, Renzo C. Ramos, Tonichi C. Regalado, Chino D. Reyes, Colin C. Salao, Jason R. Santos, Cedric B. Teng Ampo BEYOND LOYOLA Maxine A. Buenaventura and Sean S. Chingkaw; Editorial Assistants, JC A. Beltran, Andie M. Bernas, Alex M. Evangelista, Jerome D. Jacob, Nicole A. Lorena, Ina M. Morales, Mia C. Pangilinan, Janelle H. Paris, Bella R. Perez-Rubio, Abelardo M. Torio, Angel T. Villamor FEATURES Celine D. Natividad, Editorial Assistant; Saffi C. Arcenas, Mikaela T. Bona, Kayla T. Cadenas, Andrew D. Cambri, Bea C. Constantino, Patricia A. Dy, Samantha C. Ledesma, Katya F. Lichauco, Annicka B. Koteh, Joma M. Roble, Francis R. Toledo
On the president’s new foreign policy AMONG THE casualties of President Rodrigo Duterte’s blitzkrieg of change seems to be the Philippines’ supposedly “iron-clad” alliance with its former colonial master, the United States (US). While many tend to take his statements with a grain of salt, the finality with which he brushed off American presence in the Philippines raised several f lags. The very idea that the president even harbors antagonistic thoughts against the US is shocking for many Filipinos, considering that we are the most pro-American people in the world (yes, even more than Americans themselves, a 2015 poll revealed). Irritated by the Americans’ rebuke of his bloody war on
us in bolstering our defense capabilities. Close cooperation with them has led to a strengthening of our armed forces—but at what cost? American servicemen have gotten away with rape and murder, while women like Jennifer Laude and “Nicole” of the Subic case are only a fraction of the injustices committed by these soldiers. Calling into mind these abuses, the president has called for an end to joint drills with the US military, signaling what he says is the beginning of an “independent foreign policy.” Yet at the same time, he has also cited China’s apprehensions. “China does not want [it],” he says bluntly.
drugs, the president has turned the tables on them, accusing them of human rights violations against Filipinos during their brutal pacification campaign in the early years of US colonial rule, and even their own citizens— African-Americans brutalized by their own police. He insists that the Philippines is better off without them and that severing ties is a form of “liberation” for the nation. It is good that the president’s pronouncements— how brash they may be— have led Filipinos to take a much-needed second look at America’s legacy. Many argue that the US has overstayed its welcome here. Indeed, one can argue that the US has assisted
INQUIRY Manuel M. Aldeguer, Editorial Assistant; Nio B. Atrigenio, Andie M. Casas, Jake B. Cureg, Renz G. Espanol, Jayvee A. del Rosario, Joaquin B. Jacinto, Jairus I. Paul, Corleto O. Vinluan
BLUE JEANS
VANTAGE MAGAZINE Ashley Martelino, Editorial Assistant; Ching M. Balina; Managerial Assistant; Regis Martin Andanar, Deany R. Cheng, Gio Goseco, Luisa C. Jocson, Benjo T. Lansangan, Franco M. Luna, Carlito O. Mortel, Patrick L. Roasa, Martina R. Roces, Romano Santos
An exercise in empathy
PHOTOS Reena Dunque and Gabby F. Jimenez, Editorial Assistants; Justin C. Ang, Danica T. Bibera, Aya Cabauatan, Trina Camacho, Jill R. Chan, Twinkle R. Liboon. John P. Oranga, Jeff Pascual, Aliyah Rojo, Pat Sarmiento, Chester B. Tan, Yuri Tan, Janine Torres, Bryan T. Torres, Marco T. Torrijos, Joshua M. Vera, Analeigh Y. Yao
BY BENNY G. TAÑEDO
GRAPHIC DESIGN Annika N. Hernandez and Antonette A. Amoncio, Editorial Assistants; Jill T. Arteche, Victor N. Datu, Colleen P. De Luna, Inya de Vera, Chapy B. Fadullon, Celline Mercado, Richard Mercado, Mikaela R. Montaño, Jezka Ratilla, Patricia Reyes, Beatriz K. Venezuela, Meg F. Villena DIGITAL MEDIA Ian B. De La Cruz, Editorial Assistant; Ana K. Batiller, Mike G. del Castillo, Enzo Orbeta, Leina Santiago TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT Hannah Guinto, Managerial Assistant; James Andales, Paul Jason F. Gue, Trisha Lim, Keanu Emmanuel A. Penaranda EXTERNALS Paula Birung, Managerial Assistant; Sheila Advincula, Clarissa Borja, March Bulalacao, Shaira Co, Lanlan Marquez Patrick Moscosa, Aimee Nazareno, Jeric Santos, Javier Serrano
Ruel S. De Vera MODERATOR
For comments, suggestions and contributions, email
desk@theguidon.com
WATCHING THE news the other week made me feel sick. That isn’t a figure of speech— I did begin to feel nauseous at the idea that Senator Leila de Lima had been ousted from her position as chair of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights. I was exhausted that day, and coming home to this eruption of news was the last thing I expected. Of course, this was but one episode within the larger and more complicated drama that is Philippine politics. Day after day, one can’t help but feel bits of confusion, shame, or even anger after hearing our President’s latest remark, or after reading Spokesperson
Ernesto Abella’s attempts at rectifying these remarks. And although we’re all familiar with it by now, there’s just no getting used to the war on drugs, where human lives are being extinguished by the dozen every single week. It’s easy these days to feel a little less hopeful, a little more helpless, with each and every news cycle that comes to pass. The weight exerted by the news on our personal and collective selves is all too palpable, and sometimes it seems easier to just stop listening. But we can’t completely disconnect ourselves from news outlets—doing so induces ignorance. How can we take in the news, then, without succumbing to anxiety? While there is no simple answer to this question, I think it’s interesting to note how listen-
ing to or reading the news is more often than not a vicarious experience. The story is virtually never about you, at least not exactly. And yet it affects you, and there’s something at stake. Despite the literal and figurative distances, we find ourselves caring about people we’ve never met, and situations we haven’t been in. In short, viewing the news can be an exercise in empathy: In seeing other people not through your own pre-conceived notions but through their experiences, their joys and their sorrows. Listening to the news can help us understand what happens outside of our own lives, and this, in turn, allows us to better see ourselves in connection to one another as equivalent parts of something greater than ourselves, namely, our country.
If the President’s definition of an independent foreign policy is to placate the People’s Republic of China, can we really call it independent? Aligning with China—and even Russia, traditional rivals of the US, represents a huge break in our historical geopolitical position. We are contemplating association with callous, autocratic regimes with a record of abuse of power. If we are to pursue this track, then we must do so with extreme caution. Certainly, a shift of this magnitude does not exist within a vacuum. The Philippines will have to revisit its relations with American allies such as Japan, South Korea, and the European
Union. A sudden break with our current foreign policy bears the risk of upending the current global order. If little else, the President is correct in saying that we must chart our own independent course as a sovereign nation, but we believe this desire must be balanced by the consequences of geopolitical reality. It has always been the Editorial Board’s earnest belief that the interests of the Filipino must remain paramount in its relations between nations. As such, we urge the President to d iscer n wh ich p ol icie s provide maximal benefit to the welfare of our country. At the end of the day, it is the Filipino who will ultimately decide his destiny.
The stories told by the news are similar to the novels and fictional narratives that occupy our imagination: There are perceived villains and perceived heroes, vast patches of gray areas, and a host of opportunities for readers to make sense of the story by themselves. Like fiction, news stories provide us with characters to identify with, and with chances to think critically. Although unlike fiction, the consequences of these news stories are real and inescapable—and this all the more underscores how these stories need to be understood and taken in context if we are to allow ourselves to be moved by them. Mass media institutions will always be present in our lives, from the moment we were born till the day we pass away. And the stories that it captures on a day-
to-day basis effectively weave the larger narrative we call history. What is important, I think, is whether we can see not just our worst fears in these stories, but also our hopes and our aspirations for the country. We can’t control how history will turn out, but we can, and in many ways should, rethink our relationship with the news.
Benny G. Tañedo is an aspiring mental health professional who plans to get into medicine proper by 2017. He graduated from the Loyola Schools last June with a degree in AB Philosophy. If you would like to contribute to Blue Jeans and Chalkmarks, e-mail your entry to desk@theguidon.com. Entries should be no longer than 3,200 characters with spaces.
The GUIDON October 2016
Simcha
MIGUEL N. SEVIDAL
History is written by the revisionists WINSTON CHURCHILL once said that “history is written by the victors.” And today’s war against historical revisionism can only be won not by providing the right answers, but by asking the right questions.
Hoppy MIGUEL S. MURGA
Not just for kids MOST OF my friends know that two of my favorite liveaction TV shows of all time are Breaking Bad and Game of Thrones. Both shows have welldeveloped, relatable characters, an interesting premise weaved into an engaging narrative, great cinematography, original music, and an established, believable world. Every episode of these shows was produced so masterfully that even the casual viewer could see how much effort was put into its creation. As I watched Breaking Bad, I genuinely wanted to see Walter White succeed in building his meth empire. In Game of Thrones, I was deeply invested in how each of the characters, having their own backstory and motives, related to one another in George R. R. Martin’s fictional world. However, before getting into modern cartoons, I would never have thought that I would put animated TV shows like Gravity Falls and Steven Universe on the same pedestal as these personal favorites of mine. We all had cartoons that we loved watching as kids. Some of my personal favorites include Hey Arnold, Recess,
Guryon CLARISSA R. GORREON
Noisy list RECALL OUR elementary school days: the teacher has stepped out of the classroom to take care of something, and has left the rest of the class at the mercy of the class president, who is tasked with the incredibly important duty of keeping his classmates in check. He exercises this duty by writing “the Noisy List” in his sacred corner of the blackboard. He writes down the dissenters’ names in bold letters, glaringly white against the green of the blackboard. These dissenters are usually the same people: boys who have been known to cause trouble in the class, those whom teachers treat with a strange mix of sternness and fondness, and the occasional girl or two, those who would risk journeying across the classroom in order to titter and gossip with her friends. I recall this scenario so vividly, only because I have seen my own name written in those very same white letters too often, admittedly more often than I would like to admit.
On September 11, the Official Gazette posted a birthday card commemorating the 99th birth anniversary of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos. The original post recounted Marcos’s political career, adding that he declared Proclamation 1081 “to suppress a communist insurgency and secessionism in Mindanao” and that he “stepped down from the presidency to avoid bloodshed” during the People Power Revolution. The efforts at revising history to alter the martial law narrative are not new. As early as 2011, a YouTube channel titled PangulongMarcos posted “True Lies in EDSA: The Dark Kept Secrets of 1986 ‘People
Power’ Revolution,” a video that portrayed Ferdinand Marcos as the strongman who rebuilt the Philippines, saved the country from communist insurgents, and made People Power possible as his order “[was] not to attack.” It would seem that today’s generation, too distant from the era, may actually find merit in propaganda that aims to distort martial law history. Several millennials would argue that “things were better” during the martial law years, citing discipline, security, rice self-sufficiency, and other Marcos legacies to defend their claim. “The media is biased,” they would say, arguing that the Marcos
The Rugrats, and yup, I’ll even admit that I have a bit of a fondness for The Powerpuff Girls. While these shows entertained me and have a special place locked forever in my childhood, the reality is that “kids’ shows” today have really gotten an upgrade since the early 2000s. In the last year, I started getting into some of the more recent cartoon series released. Shows like Steven Universe and Gravity Falls have made a resounding impact on me, in the sense that these shows tackled complex issues and ideas in ways understandable for even kids. Because of this, I am thoroughly convinced we are living in the golden age of animated TV shows. On the surface, Gravity Falls is about a brother-sister duo that spends a summer out of town to visit their uncle. Together, they solve mysteries and discover many of the town’s secrets. Steven Universe is about a boy named Steven who is part of a team of magical beings called The Crystal Gems. Steven, along with his friends, has encounters with corrupted gems and aliens. To my surprise, these “kids’ shows” were intelligent, clever, and thought-provoking, while still being fun and lighthearted. For example, in Steven Universe, some characters have this power where two people can combine their mind and body together as one. The subject of identity comes into
question, as these characters have to work together in order to share both their mental and physical abilities—while still staying true to him or herself. Cartoons are exploring issues like anxiety, inferiority, sexuality, identity, depression, family, and even political issues. I also believe that cartoons these days are making the most out of the medium. Animation offers unlimited possibilities as it uses imagination over logic. Shows have the power to do whatever they want in the world they create. This idea of bringing high quality, well-produced shows is becoming the norm as studios and networks are realizing that there is an actual demand for this brand of television. The animated TV shows of today challenge what used to be seen as merely “kids’ stuff.” Some of the best cartoons today have all the makings of an excellent TV series. It is now conventional for animated TV shows to be of a high quality and be something that proves itself to be entertaining for adults just as much as it is for kids.
Though I look back at those years now with a nostalgic fondness, I can’t help but also feel a sense of fierce protectiveness for my eightyear-old self. I can vividly remember how my parents had to sit me down in order to give me a stern talking to, because they had been informed about my unruly behavior by a homeroom adviser. I remember how I would oftentimes be singled out in the middle of a class lecture by a teacher who thought it unbecoming of me as a girl to be so kulit. I remember how I was lumped together with my much rowdier male classmates and labelled as a “troublemaker.” Most of all, I still remember how I would lie awake at night, gripped with the constant and irrational fear of finding out that no one wanted to be my friend because I was too loud or too annoying. One would think that letting myself be so affected by something as inconsequential as being put in the Noisy List in elementary school was silly— after all, none of it would matter in the long run—but it was something I had carried for years. It was like having a tiny voice in my head reminding me to always reel myself in, to always be prim, proper, and “well-behaved”. As I got older, however, the less I listened to
that tiny voice and I learned to feel less ashamed of being called “noisy” or “makulit.” I decided to change the way I was viewing these words. Today, I choose to no longer view them as negative labels, but rather, I view these words as traits that I fully capture my truest self. The more I instilled this perspective within me, the more that I started embracing them and identifying with them. Where I once hastened to defend myself against people who would constantly criticize me for being “too loud,” I now make my voice louder, in order to drown out their criticism. Where I once attempted to restrain myself from attracting too much attention, I now take the extra step to let myself be known. Where I once tried to change myself for the sake of pleasing the people around me, I now accept myself for everything that I am, noise and kakulitan included.
years are always portrayed in a negative light and that we forget their contributions. It is futile for me to continue supplying correctional answers as responses to attempts at historical revisionism. Instead, it would be better to prompt discourse by asking the right questions—not what happened during the martial law years, not how he tortured the country, but why he did so and what was the price the Filipino people had to pay. Marcos declared martial law not to protect the country from communist insurgents and student activists; he did so to remain in office. As early as his university years, Marcos
Talna
JAMIE C. CATANES
Laughter and cultural criticism A FEW weeks ago, a talk show host was called out for impishly messing up his guest’s hair. This behavior was expected from host, Jimmy Fallon, and it was a bit that wasn’t out of place from the fun and light-hearted manner of the program. What angered critics was who that guest was —the xenophobic, sexist manchild named Donald Trump. Perhaps because it came after Matt Lauer’s softball approach to interviewing Trump or because people want someone to unapologetically hold his feet to the fire, but either way, it seemed so out of place with the volume of Trump eviscerations on late night. Seth Meyers, whose talk show immediately follows Fallon’s on NBC, went after Trump for claiming he ended the “birther” movement against Barack Obama and viciously called the presidential candidate a racist and a liar. Over on CBS, Stephen
Attic Salt ADRIAN M. GOH
How to get away with rape AFTER THE dramatic turn of events following Turner’s rape case, so many people from all over the world and online were infuriated—I myself included. I consider myself a feminist, but it’s situations like these that move me into voicing out on the cause even more. Turner has just been released from Santa Clara County jail after just three months. His original sentence? Six months. His maximum sentence? 14 years in state prison. What bothered me even more than the case’s insensibly merciful verdict however, was the way Turner’s parents responded to the situation. Saying that 14 years in prison is a “steep price to pay for 20 minutes of action” completely misses the point. The price is steep and that’s because rape is a very serious crime. If Brock Turner can easily skirt around the rule of law, then others after him can follow suit.
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was already envisioning how to bend the constitution to satisfy his lust for power. What was the price of martial law? The Filipino people lost nine years of the democracy they once boasted to the world. Political institutions were crippled. Human rights were violated. Marcos took away our basic freedoms, freedoms he had no right to take away from us. He stripped the Filipino people of their dignity and right to justice, ordering the most inhumane punishments for a nyone he thought would get in his way. To satisfy a man’s lust for power, he forcibly robbed the Filipino people of their
freedom and dignity. Was national discipline really worth taking away a people’s right to live freely? The war against historical revisionism comes now at a crucial time, with a growing young millennial population at crossroads on what to believe in. It is here where the right questions must be asked to foster critical awareness and intelligent discourse. Only by asking the right questions will millennials arrive at the right answers on what constitutes genuine history. Who writes history? The revisionists perhaps, but in asking the right questions, we may be very well challenging their selfproclaimed victory.
Colbert teared into Trump about the same scandal. On her show, Samantha Bee expressed her outrage over Fallon’s interview and NBC, saying, “I guess because ratings matter more than brown people.” Fallon later defended the interview, saying he was an entertainer, not a journalist. However, watching Fallon humanize a racist demagogue was not entertaining. It’s one thing to be civil; it’s another thing to enable him. Though the show was never about taking political stands or shedding light on controversial issues and an argument could be made that they were only being consistent with their content, it still doesn’t make it right. Fallon is among the few who refuse to talk political on his show. The landscape of late night shows in the US (whose episodes are readily accessible around the world thanks to YouTube) is vastly different today. Late night has gleefully transformed from night after night of flat celebrity interviews and amusing monologues into a mix of that, political takedowns and surprisingly valuable insights. And with exposed comedians like John Oliver, Meyers, Bee, Colbert, and Trevor Noah ready to deconstruct and criticize an issue, it is the evolution of jesters into public intellectuals. And it’s not just late night. Comedy has always been entwined with politics, and has a long history of mocking the
system and taking institutions down a peg. While one can crack a joke about “Yo mama,” someone can use comedy to further an argument or to express dissatisfaction and frustration at what’s going on – whether that be the government, a social norm, or a systemic issue. The reason why something as seemingly paradoxical as comedy and politics meld together so well is because humor makes tough issues an easier pill to swallow. Humor can create spaces to talk about taboo subjects – it enabled sexist jokes and so-called locker room banter, but it could also make productive fun of racial issues (see Key and Peele), take on misogyny (Tina Fey and Amy Poehler), and tackle mental health (Maria Bamford). A joke, delivered lightly and punctuated by laughter, can lead to serious thinking. As comedy and comedians diversify, it more clearly reflects the reality we face; we being a diverse human beings in different contexts, not as privileged white males. It more forcefully challenges the status quo and begs answers to questions ranging from inequality to cultural authority. The idea that comedy has moral purpose is not farfetched – with the reach made possible by the internet and the urgency and relevance of social and political issues, humor is a tool that demands to be used to its full potential.
The fact that Turner isn’t expressing any sincere remorse— altering narratives to fit his description of that dreadful night, being unapologetic and unsympathetic towards the victim—makes him unworthy of early release. While Dan Turner is insistent that his son is going through some sort of post-traumatic stress, Turner’s party fails to recognize that victims of rape experience an even more devastating psychological trauma. And this is the reality that rape victims have faced in times past. Majority of these victims are unable to recover knowing that their rapists still run free. Victims of rape are also treated as specimens under a microscope; that is to say, they lose their sense of identity while undergoing the process of trial. With the tiresome interrogations and hearings, constantly being referred to as “the rape victim” can take a toll on the aggrieved party. With all of these in mind, I mull over the present state of our own rape cases. Today, most cases of rape in the Philippines are swept under the rug, dismissed as results of being intoxicated, wearing provocative clothing, and other far worse alibis than those suggested by Brock Turner himself. I speak out to all the parents reading this column. You have a
moral obligation to educate your sons and daughters about rape. Don’t perpetuate rape culture by excusing your children’s misdeeds. Set the example for your children, so that they don’t sexualize their peers. To my peers, consider our position as Ateneans. We’re so used to receiving backlash for being “privileged.” I’d like to see this from another light. Consider us privileged for being able to afford an Atenean education, whether through our parents’ income, a scholarship, or a financial aid. But after having gone down from the hill, what do we choose to do with this privilege? Whoever you are, whether rich or poor, an athlete, a scholar, a valedictorian, or what have you: No achievement, amount of wealth, or social class can excuse the fact that you’ve done a crime. If you’ve committed a crime, you suffer the consequences. And finally to you, Mr. Brock Turner, please don’t waste your time giving talks about binge drinking and the culture of alcoholism. If you want to redeem yourself and give back to society in a net positive way, go to jail, suffer the consequences, inform the rapists who end up in your place that rape is wrong, and admit that there is no way that you can get away with rape.
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News
Atenean Voice Do you think that the Philippine media is presenting a fair and unbiased picture of the issues of the day? Novel Paller 2 AB COM
“For me, Philippine media is home to some of the Philippine’s best thinkers. It’s in this field where we can witness people who are passionate enough to risk their lives just to be able to bring out the sense of authentic journalism; truth in every writing. However, in the chaotic [and] toxic society that we’re living in today, it’s quite hard to distinguish the legitimate truth from the fabricated ones for the sake of gaining more viewers or higher ratings or for worst, money [and] there were many instances that discredited the credibility of well-known media corporations in the country. Philippine media has yet to prove its identity once again; that it is not leaning on one side only but for the good of all.”
Michael Fria President, Youth For ChristAteneo
“Everyone is always at risk of being biased because we all have our own perspective on a certain matter or issue. What matters the most is the effort put into actually researching the facts that are presented and taking responsibility for any knowledge that has been divulged to the public. We should do our best to be as truthful as possible.”
Trixie Beato President, The Ateneo Assembly
“In general, I think that you can’t completely say that media or anyone else is value-free; everyone has a certain sense of bias. Although the media has the responsibility to present both sides of the issue, because of certain alliances or funders—say ABS-CBN is funded by the Lopezes or GMA is funded by another oligarch—[whatever] context a media outlet is coming from, it’s inherently biased. For me, I can’t say that any media outlet can be completely objective, but I think the issue here isn’t whether [it] is biased or unbiased, but whether media today is sensationalizing news too much. You can do your best to report both sides of the story, but bias will still play into the picture. At the end of the day, it’s a matter of [whether] a media outlet [reported] something without oversensationalizing.”
Wella Lobaton 2 AB IS
“I believe that credible media sources still present a fair and unbiased picture of the issues today. However, even if these media sources present credible unbiased pictures of today’s issues, it is our job as citizens to be vigilant and choose the right kind of media sources. It’s so easy to put up anything online these days and it’s getting harder and harder to know what’s true and what’s not. We must allow ourselves to get information from those that report it with truth and without bias.”
Rissa Martinez President, ACOMM
“I think that the media should be presenting current issues in an unbiased way but unfortunately, what seems unbiased to one might not be unbiased to another. The people who handle the news are not perfect, and being ‘unbiased’ becomes very subjective. So there are some things presented in the news that seem to favor one side or another.”
Neicy Pilarca 3 BS MIS
“No, publications today are usually, if not sounding biased towards a certain politician, biased towards themselves. They choose headlines that are contentious, and sensationalize certain cases that are completely unnecessary, so that they can garner more attention and more readers. That said, there is definitely a need for more responsible journalism, and on the part of the readers, we must be more careful and critical in developing our standpoints especially with controversial issues.”
Krisa Alcoriza Secretary-General, ACOMM
Andrew Albert Ty Instructor, Communication Department
“No. From the simplest of perspectives, news is always constructed. News takes the raw data of the world and processes it and presents it in whatever medium. Television news will have its own set of codes and protocols for delivering the news, different from newspapers, even though they might be telling the same story, certainly different from radio as well. There are certain practices in delivery. Television news tends to be straightforward reportage. On radio news, people tend to make editorial comments while they’re delivering the news at the same time. So I think that’s an indication that there are many different ways of delivering the news, which means that news is not exactly always fair and biased. There’s no fixed standard, except for the standard set by conventional practices. In the context of the Philippines, our media is not completely objective, but my argument is that no media is ever completely objective anyway. News media especially always tries to present itself as objective, but I don’t think it can. You’re always taking a position.”
Hazel Li 2 BS ME
“I don’t think that media is ever unbiased. Given that these media companies are often funded and supported by the wealthy and the politically powerful, it is prone to the influences of these groups.”
James Manganar 4 BS ME, ARSA President
“Focusing on the online lens, I do believe that Philippine media try their very best to deliver clear and unbiased news; yet, in a world of powerful social media [granted free data], we see people online flesh out what they want to see, what they want to hear. People like, react, comment and share and share again until the integrity of the news gets degraded down the line. In as much as we want to be informed. Filipinos lack the diligence to equip themselves with the necessary knowledge of the news and social issues of today before clicking that “post” button on any social medium. For what it’s worth, Philippine media try its very best to portray a narrative that the readers and listeners can follow—that which is objective and fair. If there should be any bias whatsoever, it is us, who carelessly translate these pieces into questionable and unreliable sources of information. In a similar light, more than just information, I believe in the importance of a healthy discourse amongst one another. Some ideas may be overlooked by one individual, and this exchange may not only result in a mutually beneficial way, but it also enhances one’s mind to think critically of such issues prevailing in our nation.”
Jan Christian Uy 2 AB DipIR
“I won’t say that the media is showing an unbiased picture since everyone has their own biases. To an extent, these biases affect the way they portray events. I’m not going to limit this to the mainstream media but also to other, less conventional media. The reason for this bias is because each of the different views of those publishing the news and the certain publishing cater to a certain market of people. That’s why when someone claims to be unbiased, always have a slight hint of skepticism for your own benefit.”
Gerald John Guillermo 2 AB POS
“Philippine media has always been trying to keep up with the standards of fair and unbiased articles and news. However, there has been an increase of new media outlets especially in the online platforms. With this increase, many media outlets’ aim is not to present an unprejudiced report of the day, but to lure and catch the attention of the people to read their articles. These articles are often equipped with misleading headlines and inclined opinion either to fuel the people’s passion and hate towards someone, or to create a good image out of a person. For this reason, the quality of the Philippine media to give reliable news has degenerated and has been reduced to ‘popularity’ as their main objective.”
“I think that we, as consumers of media, watch news and read articles presented to us with our own biases already in play. Even if we do try to see things critically from a removed perspective, we can’t help but attach ourselves to our own biases. With that said, it wouldn’t matter if the Philippine media is presenting an unbiased picture of the issues of today or not, because we as consumers can be very subjective.”
Glimpses Ateneo Lex holds Law School Series 2016
Security K-9s deployed to improve campus safety
Ateneo Lex hosted Law School Series 2016, a series of events in collaboration with the University of the Philippines Law Student Government, Ateneo Law Student Council, and The Women of Aleitheia, an organization of the Ateneo Law School. This began with the Law School Trip on September 10, where participants toured and attended mock classes at the University of the Philippines College of Law and the Ateneo Law School. This was followed by the Law School Forum on September 19, where current students and alumni from the aforementioned law schools including Atty. Gabriel Lorenzo Ignacio, Carla Tsoi, and Aubrey Nicole Ng were invited to speak about life as a law school student. This was concluded by a Mock Law Aptitude Exam held September 23. The Law School Series is held annually to orient students with the life and culture in law school and help in their decisions on where to proceed for their studies. BEA P. SANTIANO
The Campus Mobility and Safety Office (CSMO) collaborated with security service provider Megaforce Integrated Security Agency to enhance proactive security measures and protocols around the campus. For this project, the CSMO required bringing in K-9 units that roam around the campus for security measures. These security canines were brought in during the second quarter of the year as part of the CSMO’s program “to adequately provide guards with the proper security equipment, technology and training in order to develop a better security force.” According to CSMO Director Marcelino Mendoza, these units are necessary in providing information to their security managers during security assessment and management should bomb threats and other emergency situations surface. BEA P. SANTIANO
Siklab sends national delegation to UN Youth Assembly Ateneo psych graduate tops licensure board exams Ateneo alumna Gilana Kim Roxas (BS PSY ’16) garnered first place in the August 2016 psychometrician licensure board exams. The Ateneo received a 78% passing rate in the licensure board exams. Meanwhile, masteral graduate Cherie Ann Lo (MA Developmental Psychology ’12) was the first placer in the psychologist board exam. The Ateneo was the top performing school in that field, receiving a 87.5% total passing rate in the board exam. In addition, Psychology Instructor Melissa Garabiles also passed the psychologist board exam. Both exams are administered annually by the Professional Regulation Commission. LIAM C. LU
Siklab, an organization that focuses on facilitating the participation of more Filipino youth in the Youth Assembly (YA) at the United Nations (UN), was founded by Political Science junior Saje Molato last August. Instead of the usual process of interested delegates applying online through the YA’s website, participants would now go through a more in-depth application process, pre-event lecture series, and a proper management and support system. Siklab is also hoping to send delegations to other local and international conferences that are in line with the organization’s mission. Molato said that the organization’s emphasis on a representative delegation would mean sending youth lacking financial means to attend these events – an issue the organization is currently working to address. They will be sending their first batch of scholars in time for the next YA in February. BEA P. SANTIANO
The GUIDON September 2016
SPOTLIGHT IS ON. Communications junior Denice Dinsay is the new UAAP courtside reporter. PHOTOS BY JOHN P. ORANGA
GALLERY OF EAGLES
DENICE DINSAY:
Profiling the novice who dared to dream BY JASON R. SANTOS
AS THE University Athletics Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 79 opened last September 3, 2016, much of the talk pivoted around the departures of King Eagle Kiefer Ravena and Queen Eagle Alyssa Valdez. But one such departure that may have gone under radar until recent times is that of courtside reporter Laura Lehmann. Following her departure, fans of both the UAAP and Ateneo anxiously waited for news regarding her successor. It was not until two months ago that the restlessness ultimately came to an end as Lehmann’s successor was revealed to the world in the form of 19-year old Communications junior Denice Dinsay. Dinsay, with her endearing looks and charming personality, is sure to bring a new flavor to fans of both the UAAP and Ateneo, as she offers much to the table that will undoubtedly give fans something to look forward to for this season. ROAD TO LOYOLA HEIGHTS
Since first grade, Dinsay knew that her heart belonged in Loyola Heights. “I [have] always wanted to go to Ateneo since grade one. I think it started when I was studying Jose Rizal and I found out that Rizal went to Ateneo for
college. Ever since then, I knew that I wanted Ateneo,” said Dinsay. Throughout her pre-college days, Dinsay played badminton and table tennis in the interschool level, though she insists she’s “far from the sporty type.” Dinsay adds that she fell in love with writing and film, even taking extra-curricular activities such as newswriting classes. Along with these, she’s also very interested in the world of recording and newscasting. Dinsay shares that it’s always been her dream to be a newscaster, which is what what led her to pursue a communications degree for college. DARE TO DREAM
Throughout her first two years, Dinsay’s resume in terms of being a host remained unmarked. Even in her home organization, Ateneo Association of Communication Majors, she did not apply for any hosting or reporting gigs. Dinsay’s passion for writing and reporting however, was revived when the job for the position of courtside reporter opened. She then went through a gruelling three-stage audition process involving tests such as storytelling, impromptu reports, and in her opinion, the toughest test of them all: smiling at the camera for over three minutes while answering interview questions from the auditions committee. Overall, Dinsay was not confident in her performance that day. “[The
audition process] was hard! I honestly didn’t think that I’d get called back!” said Denice. TIP OF THE ICEBERG
Things fortunately went well for Dinsay as she was eventually called back to be informed that she was now Ateneo’s newest courtside reporter. Even with the job of courtside reporter now fully in her grasp, Dinsay knows that she is just at the tip of the iceberg. “I’m trying my best to improve every day! As of now, I’m working hard at projecting myself in front of the camera because as I said earlier, that’s my biggest weakness talaga,” she said. Dinsay is also fortunate because she has met some of the biggest names in the sportscasting business, willing to help her should she need it. She was given the opportunity to meet and learn from professionals in the industry, namely, Boom Gonzalez, Mico Halili, and TJ Manotoc. Dinsay shares that, however, she is very aware that she still needs to work hard and improve—as with all the other courtside reporters, there is still the possibility for her to be removed from her post. Although the fear of striking out lingers within the shadows, Dinsay is driven by sheer excitement and passion. “[This is] really a dream come true for me,” said an emotional Dinsay, while smiling from ear to ear. Though she’s aware of the challenges she may soon face, Dinsay believes that she is ready for the big stage.
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Sports
SPORTS FEATURE
A quarter of a century for Ateneo Aikido
BY KIRBY G. JALANDONI AND CEDRIC B. TENG AMPO
TUCKED INTO a corner in the Blue Eagle Gym’s second floor, the Ateneo Aikido Club is quietly moving along, giving the aikidokas of the Blue and White a venue to practice their skills and share their interests within the Katipunan campus. It all started 25 years ago at Cervini Hall, where dormers established the club under the leadership of English professor Antonio Ferrer, PhD. From there, the club moved around the campus, before finally settling in their current place, the Aikido Area, beside the University Athletics Office, complete with their own banner and mats. Roy Agustin of the English Department says that the club’s membership is mostly comprised by faculty. “There are teachers and there are former teachers like Ada Loredo,” he says, referring to the only aikidoka who has been around since the club’s beginning. The club boasts of three homegrown black belters. Prixie Cruz, PhD, also of the English Department, joined
Loredo in earning her black belt at the same time and another professor from the School of Humanities, Mark Calano of the Philosophy Department, recently earned his own black belt. WHAT AIKIDO IS
To the general public, not a lot is known about Aikido itself. The basic facts about Aikido are that it is a Japanese martial art and a method of self-defense. Its movements and technical structure were derived from the usage of a sword, but the techniques have evolved to the point where practitioners of the art can practice with an empty hand. They move in particular ways akin to dancing. All these give Aikido a certain distinctness compared to other forms of martial arts. “We [do not] punch, we [do not] kick,” says Agustin. “A lot of the techniques involve locks, so you lock joints, you lock body parts, or throw. You [do not] hurt anyone, including your opponent,” he adds. This martial art emphasizes against inducing physical harm to the opponent and this stems from the name itself. Aikido is composed of three
Japanese words: ai, which means harmony; ki, which means spirit or energy; and do, which means path or way. “It’s the way of harmony, supposedly. [It is] weird because [it is] often seen as the art of “not fighting.” How do you not fight, and yet protect and defend yourself? [That is] the weird and enigmatic thing about it,” Agustin explains. GETTING TO KNOW THE ATENEO AIKIDO CLUB
There is one essential thing one must do in order to get into the club: show up. There is no sign up fee or registration process. If you want to practice Aikido, then just come and say you want to practice. This membership process of accepting anyone, regardless of experience level, truly shows the friendly and open nature of the club. This is seen in the diversity of the club; a quick visit to their practices show members of different genders and ages interacting in jovial ways. Not only is this in line with the traditions of the club itself, but also with the values the martial art upholds. Letting in anyone willing to practice is a way of
harmonizing with others and the affability of the participants show the mutual respect that is important in Aikido. There are some important people to know within the Ateneo Aikido Club if one wants to join. The three main instructors or sensei are Rommel Miel, Roni Boniquit, and Dennis Diaz. Aikido is a very personal martial art, so each sensei has a different style. “Sensei Dennis has a very different way of practicing from let’s say, our Head Sensei Miel, because [Sensei Dennis] is an athlete,” Agustin explains. Despite having dissimilar movement, speed, and power in their style of practicing Aikido, neither one is wrong. The techniques used are still the same. Below them are the aforementioned black belts: Ada Loredo, Prixie Cruz, and Mark Calano. These three can teach themselves, but they are not officially sensei. They can be asked to conduct if there is a lack of sensei or if they are running late. According to Agustin, the rule is if there are no sensei, then the highest-ranking belt conducts. GOING BEYOND THE CAMPUS
One key philosophy of Aikido is an avoidance of
competitions. Thus, the main avenue for interacting with other Aikido groups is through seminars. These are usually organized by a club that will invite an Aikido master from overseas to teach and gather aikidokas to practice together. Similar to other martial arts, Aikido also has its own federation. Ateneo Aikido Club belongs to Aikido Philippines, the main federation in the country. However, when seminars are held, the federations usually come together. “Generally naman, there is no animosity between federations,” Agustin says. “You go to a seminar and you meet everybody.” The Aikido Philippines Federat ion a lso a ims to hold two National Aikido Conferences every year. For this, the federation usually invites masters from Japan. These masters usually have their own nuances in terms of style, which makes it interesting and non-repetitive to join every conference. In relation to this, Ateneo A ik ido Club ha s inv ited wo r l d - r e n o w n e d S e n s e i Bruno Gonzales from France
REDIRECTION. Aikido is a modern martial art focused on using the momentum of the opponent against them. PHOTOS BY JEFF PASCUAL
for a two-day conference on November 19-20, 2016 at the Blue Eagle Gym. This is the highlight of the club’s celebration of its 25th year since its beginnings in Cervini Hall. Sensei Gonzales’ arrival to Manila is one of his rare appearances in Asia and the club has been sending out invites across the continent. “We’re also extending the invitation out international, so Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, all these other areas,” Agustin says. As a result, a large number of attendees from both the country and outside is expected to arrive for the Bruno Gonzales International Aikido Seminar. With a renowned sensei and a large gathering of multi-national aikidokas, it is certainly an event that is worthy to be held as the Ateneo Aikido Club’s flagship event in their silver jubilee celebrations this year.
The GUIDON September 2016
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TEAM FEATURE
Training the body, the mind, and the soul BY CARLOS H. CRUZ
THE ATENEO men’s and women’s table tennis teams have struggled in the past few years, most recently finishing at the bottom of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) standings in Season 78. With a new UAAP season on the horizon, however, the blue and lady paddlers have nothing to lose as they gear up for the start of UAAP Table Tennis tournament, as they look to redeem themselves and improve from their past results. TRAINING ON THE TABLE
Men’s Team Captain David Dayao notes that some of their training patterns have been based on that of the national team. From mainly focusing on using forehand as their offensive weapon, they are now practicing on backhand attacks as well. “I’ve seen some of the patterns we do here [in training] that they do also in the national team,” the four-year veteran said, referring to the training
patterns in the teams’ “manyballs” training. “Many-balls” is a type of training where players are fed several balls in quick succession to hone one’s reflexes, instinct and muscle memory— skills that are crucial in a high-paced sport that requires split-second reaction times such as table tennis. Coach Mario Breiva adds that this type of training is being used not only in the Philippine national team but also by world champions. “Malaking improvement daw pag ‘manyballs’ [The ‘many-balls’ type of training makes a big improvement],” said Breiva. PREPPING FOR THE UAAP TOURNAMENT
In order to develop their mental strength and apply the skills they learn in training, the team tries to invite other schools for a set of tune-up games at least twice a month. “[The] tune-up game is like a tournament simulation against a different team,” Dayao said. In these games,
the players are exposed to pressure in a more competitive setting. Moreover, the team joined competitions such as the Eastern Cup National Table Tennis Tournament and the P&G Philippine National Games to prepare them for the highintensity level of play and pressure in the UAAP while giving them a chance to gauge their performance against other UAAP rivals as well. From these competitions and tune-up games, Dayao observed that the team’s competitiveness has improved. On occasion the team has been able to beat other UAAP teams while in other instances they fall short. However, this is still a sign of improvement. “Compared to the past years, the players have been able to compete on the same level as the other UAAP teams,” he said. FORGING A CULTURE OF SOLIDARITY IN THE TEAM
Aside from adjustments in training that were meant to polish the skill set of the
players, the blue and lady paddlers also had their own team building to build values of teamwork and unity, that will enable them to develop and improve team dynamics. “Usually what we try to achieve before the season starts is to be able to form good connections with each player para maging complementary kami pagdating ng UAAP (so we’ll be complementar y when the UA A P tournament starts),” Dayao said. Team chemistry is vital in every team-based sport but the alternating nature of the doubles competition in the UAAP especially requires a solid foundation of chemistry among the players, which is what the team building looks to develop. Aside from welcoming the rookies of the team, the team building also cultivates values within existing members of the team. One of the programs in the team was an open forum where issues within the team come up and the players get a chance to express their
thoughts and acknowledge their faults. “In that sense nakikilala mo sila not only in terms of sino sila sa table but who they really are (In that sense you get to know them beyond who they are on the table),” said women’s Team Captain Nikki Reyes. Moreover, the team building is also a chance for the players to bond with the coaching staff. In Coach Mario Breiva’s first year as the coach of the Ateneo Table Tennis teams, Dayao admitted that the players had to adjust to a new coaching style. “[Last year] we had to adjust to [the new coaching staff],” Dayao said. “But we recently had our team building and I saw naman the team dynamics changed for the better.” After the conclusion of Season 78, the Ateneo table tennis teams needed to make a lot of adjustments. With several changes made both on and off the table since then, the Blue and Lady Eagles look set to an improved performance in the UAAP Season 79 Table Tennis tournament.
GAME, SET, MATCH. Team captain, David Dayao, and rookie, Andre Rondolo exchange a stunning rally. PHOTOS BY PAT SARMIENTO
EDITOR: BEATRICE T. GO · EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: VINCENT D. SOLIVEN · LAYOUT ARTIST: VICTOR N. DATU
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Sports
A QUARTER OF A CENTURY FOR ATENEO AIKIDO
Ateneo Aikido Club will be hosting their first international seminar for its 25th anniversary.
Redefining greatness BY JAMIE S. KATIGBAK
Having laid claim to the waters of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Swimming tournament with a record-shattering campaign for the crown in Season 77 and having made history with another successful voyage to victory in Season 78, the FAST Ateneo Swimming Team has established an era of dominance in the pool of the country’s premier collegiate athletic league, asserting its authority to earn a crucial and valuable vantage point at the top of the table. However, the length of the trophy’s stay on one side of Katipunan has set all others’ eyes on the prize, fueling the fire of a constant power struggle for glory that characterizes the nature of the competition as the Eagles battle to maintain their hold on the title. But as the next test of their mettle approaches and the championship once again comes up for grabs, the swimming tournament of UAAP Season 79 becomes much more than just a heated haul for medals or merely a showdown of physical superiority alone. With much of the outcome resting on how diligently teams have
trained in the months leading up to the event, the race for the podium finish is a contest that occurs long before the surface of the pool is broken, simply determining at the end of the day whether one team’s ambition to unseat the champions can outclass the champions’ desire to keep the throne. SURMOUNTING THE CHALLENGE
Although entering the fray as marked targets on the battlefield, the Ateneo men’s and women’s swimming teams do wield a significant advantage that reverts the odds and gives them an unmistakable edge in the pool—experience in familiar territory. The conquest for a third consecutive championship sees the Blue and Lady Eagles sailing forth into previously charted waters with a largely unchanged core of seasoned veterans composing the crew, many of whom were present when the team first splashed into the spotlight two seasons prior. With international swimmers Hannah Dato and Axel Ngui captaining the journey towards triumph and the team’s arsenal of firepower bolstered by the return of Olympic cannon Jessie Lacuna, it seems that the expedition for a third year of glory
“The keyword is setting the bar higher. Everyone is improving, and it’s up to us to keep placing the bar higher so that no one can reach us.” — ARCHIMEDES LIM PROGRAM DIRECTOR, FAST ATENEO SWIMMING TEAM
runs along a course untouched by any immediate signs of clear and present danger. However, Program Director Archimedes Lim acknowledges that one factor that remains as a potential threat to the team’s success is the growing pressure arising from raised expectations for another golden finish. The downside to the boosted reputation and winning pedigree with which the team has immortalized itself into history books is the resulting unspoken and unwritten expectation that results can and will be repeated in succeeding seasons. With the Eagles soaring to the top of the competition by setting the standard a notch higher every season, the challenge of raising the bar adds a heavy mental burden onto the shoulders of both coaching staff and captain as the tournament nears. “Honestly, it is a challenge to maintain the gold [medal] harvest,” admits Lady Eagle and women’s team captain Hannah Dato. “And likewise, it is a challenge to defend and maintain the team crown.” Although an atmosphere of pressure does seep into training as the team enters the final stretch before their defense of the championship, tension sparked by the expectations to deliver results are lifted by dealing with the emotional and physical load in a positive
and productive manner. Lim’s method of combating the increasing weight on the shoulders of both swimmer and coach translates to converting pressure into excitement in order to achieve the same result of steering the squad in the direction of a finish on top of the podium. “There’s a lot of pressure but at the same time a lot of excitement to do something that people will be talking about,” shares Lim, “We always channel that pressure into excitement, into training harder and pushing ourselves.” Blue Eagle and men’s team captain Axel Ngui reflects his coach’s sentiments towards keeping a composed mentality and healthy camaraderie between teammates in the months leading up to the swim. “The team deals with pressure by supporting each other and focusing on feeling good,” says Ngui. “We have each other’s backs and ensure that there is a positive training environment where everyone is energized and inspired to swim fast.” However, although wrestling with the prospect of public expectation is a challenge on one side of the spectrum, constantly improving their own standard of excellence in response to a rapidly climbing level of competitiveness between schools is the hurdle on the other. Because each participating school in the tournament
is continuously making efforts to meet and surpass the standards of the championship team, the task falls on the Blue and Lady Eagles to set the bar even higher and change the game. RAISING THE STANDARD
With the opportunity for aquatic glory presenting itself on equal footing to each school once each year, the aftermath of the race for the podium finish greatly depends on how teams prepare both physically and emotionally in the preseason. The tankers’ course of action emphasizes not the application of specific training or nutrition regimens but rather the instillment of a certain mindset on which victory is rooted, instructing the Eagles never to settle for anything but the best, giving the team its edge over the rest of the competition. “The keyword is setting the bar higher,” expresses Lim. “Everyone is improving, and it’s up to us to keep placing the bar higher so that no one can reach us.” In addition to the championship mentality employed during training, another important aspect of the team’s dynamic that has sealed its spot at the top of the food chain is the maintenance of its caliber through both local and international exposure of its athletes. Captains Dato, Ngui, and veterans Ariana Herranz, Giancarlo Silva,
PHOTOS BY JOHN P. ORANGA AND CHESTER B. TAN
Romina Gavino, Eman Dapat, and Aldo Batungbacal donned the country’s colors at the 18th ASEAN University Games in Singapore earlier in July, while senior Jessie Lacuna recently swam at the highest level of international competition, representing the nation at the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Recruitment also plays a huge role in quality assurance by replenishing holes on the roster and ensuring that old spots are filled by athletes who can lend the same intensity of mental and physical toughness that their predecessors did. With high school standouts such as Miggy Arellano, Jethro Chua, and Andrea Ngui joining FAST’s senior ranks and testing their wings for the first time, it seems as if there is hope on the horizon for the next generation. But perhaps the most defining characteristic that distinguishes the Atenean athlete at the end of the day which could prove to be the ultimate gamechanger is the attitude with which he or she swims. What sets a Blue Eagle apart from the competition is not his colors or his speed, but rather that he swims for the name of his school instead of for his own.
EDITOR: ROBBIN M. DAGLE · EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS: MAXINE A. BUENAVENTURA AND SEAN S. CHINGKAW · LAYOUT ARTIST: PATRICIA REYES
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Beyond Loyola
THE LAND THAT FEEDS YOU
Farmers are the backbone of our country’s agriculture, yet they are still very much vulnerable to food insecurity.
Youth in chains
Who protects the children when they find themselves at odds with the law?
BY JC A. BELTRAN AND ALEX M. EVANGELISTA
P
resident Rodrigo Duterte has framed his war on drugs as a fight for the next generation. Yet, some children have fallen victim to this war. From July 1 to August 28, 20,584 children have surrendered to authorities after several drug watchlists by the Philippine National Police (PNP) identified them as “users, pushers, and runners.” Because of this, they are now considered “children in conflict with the law” (CICL)— children accused or found to have committed a legal offense. Adult offenders whose mental capacity may either be equal or lower than the legal age can
also be considered as CICL. Between 2012 and 2015, the PNP recorded nearly 40,000 CICL cases in the country. Many of them are charged for the pettiest crimes, ranging from theft, vagrancy, and curfew violation. Some are detained in derelict facilities for long periods of time while awaiting their case’s resolution. Some of them unjustly so, since they are later found to be innocent. Because of the new administration’s tough anti-crime initiatives, more children might suddenly find themselves as CICL. The House of Representatives recently filed House Bill (HB) No. 2 which seeks to lower the minimum age of criminal responsibility (MACR) from 15 to nine.
“Hindi naman solusyon ‘yun – putting children behind bars...Ano ang magiging future ng bansa? (What will become of the future of this country?)” — HELEN QUINTO EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR CHILDHOPE ASIA PHILIPPINES
POLICING THE YOUTH
According to Sentro ng Alternatibong Lingap Panligal (SALIGAN) Mindanao Branch Coordinator Kix Sarenas, the proposal to reduce the MACR is grounded on presumptions about CICL: that children easily escape from crimes without being sentenced prison and that syndicates could hire children as accomplices since the latter could not be held liable. “Ang nakasulat sa House Bill is parang we are spoiling children by not making them criminally responsible,” Sarenas said. “Kailangan bang kriminal ang pagtrato sa kanila (Do we have to treat them like criminals)?” Sarenas also stressed that the lack of punishment does not necessarily translate to the complacency of children to commit more crimes. She also asserted there is not enough solid evidence that supports the correlation between arresting adolescent offenders and lowering the criminal rate in the country. “Punishment doesn’t have to be jail time because they’re only exempt from criminal liability [but] not civil liability and there is a large distinction between them,” she explained. Moreover, Sarenas added that passing the baton to police officers over the welfare of children in prison means “abdicating the responsibility of the family.” CHILDREN EVEN MORE AT RISK
Reflecting the new government’s toughness on crime, curfews have been implemented in some parts of the country and police do not hesitate in detaining children who violate this rule. However, not every child has a place to call home. Although Helen Quinto, Executive Director of ChildHope Asia Philippines, says that “curfew
is good,” she recognized that homeless street children may be at a disadvantage. According to the 1978 United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, children have the right to life, protection, development, survival, freedom, and education. These, however, are at the risk of being compromised. Protection and survival remain the primary concern of advocates regarding CICL. Quinto said that law enforcers themselves, brought about by lack of proper training and knowledge on children’s rights, abuse the limitations and weaknesses of these children. Moreover, Quinto said that pushing the MACR to nine years old would end up “filling prisons with children.” “Hindi naman solusyon ‘yun —putting children behind bars,” Quinto said. “Ano ang magiging future ng bansa (What will become of the future of this country)?” Similarly, Sarenas said that locking up children in an overcrowded jail comprising of adult convicts would have adverse effects on their growth and development. “The chances of the CICL committing another crime increases actually ‘pag naexpose mo siya to that kind of environment,” she said. ROOT OF THE PROBLEM
The prevalence of CICL is only a part of a much bigger problem in the country – systemic poverty. According to the DSWD, the CICLs are mostly composed of males between 14 to 17 years old, raised in poverty-stricken communities. Some have abandoned their families while some were given shelter by syndicates. Although government and non-government agencies are
exhausting efforts towards catering to the children, the cycle of poverty persists until all kinds of poverty are not addressed. Quinto said that the administration focuses on the CICL’s actions instead of looking at the bigger picture of structural poverty. “Ang nakikita lang, ‘yung effect. Paano naman ‘yung pinagdaanan? Parang sarado na ‘yung isip nila na magbago pa [ang mga bata] (The only thing they see is the effect. How about what they have been through? It’s like their minds are closed that the children will change),” she said. Meanwhile, Sarenas argued that reducing the MACR would only deprive the poor of decent legal services, resulting to the influx of innocent detainees. “The fact that we acknowledge [an imperfect justice system] should prevent us from imposing stricter penalties,” she added. BARRIERS ON IMPLEMENTATION
In hopes of eliminating injustices against CICL, children’s advocate groups and local government units (LGUs) have joined hands to preserve the welfare of the youth. ChildHope Asia Philippines provides diversion programs such as psychosocial services, counseling, and alternative education for street children. They also offer vocational and skills training, in partnership with the Department of Education, to allow childrenat-risk to become productive members of society. Groups such as SALIGAN and the Civil Society Coalition on the Rights of Children have been adamant in launching their campaign against reducing the MACR by meeting with government officials. Sarenas shared that SALIGAN
PHOTO BY JILL T. ARTECHE AND DANICA T. BIBERA
has been engaging in various forums to reform the juvenile justice and welfare system in the country. On the downside, Quinto admitted that some services provided by LGUs are insufficient for every child’s needs. Child formators in the barangay level have limited knowledge on diversion programs due to lack of holistic training. Bahay Pag-asa centers built by DSWD are also inadequate to accommodate all CICL. As of June 2015, only 13 out of 19 facilities are operational. According to Quinto, full implementation of the law and collaboration of all sectors must be exercised, since she noticed that there is not enough “convergence” among LGUs and NGOs. “Kung ano ‘yung pinaplano nila, ‘yon at ‘yon na ang ipupush nila. Parang for compliance na lang na kinonsult ang mga NGO (Whatever they are planning, that would still be the exact plan they will push for. They only consult with the NGOs for the sake of compliance),” Quinto said. While the government has vowed radical change for the sake of the next generation, it should realize the grave consequences that may arise from this.
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Beyond Loyola
The land that feeds you BY INA M. MORALES AND ANGEL T. VILLAMOR
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atay Ju n Sa nchez of Capas, Tarlac gathers puso ng saging (banana heart) in order to sustain his family. His community also harvests gabi, kamote, ampalaya, ginger, and squash from their gasak, or self-proclaimed land. Tatay Jun shares that it takes an entire day to collect enough puso to fill a rice sack, which he could either sell for Php 100 or trade for four to five cups of rice. As a farmer, getting rice and food should be easy for Tatay Jun. In spite of the hard work, the very least a farmer deserves should be to have no difficulties in obtaining his food supply. But this isn’t the case. The barangay hall where Tatay Jun buys rice is a 5-hour trek from their residence, and if their harvest is not enough to sell, they have no means to purchase. To mitigate their hunger, they resort to eating the other vegetables they have planted, but this is still insufficient for their sustenance. Ironically, Tatay Jun and his family suffer from food insecurity. The Food and Agriculture Organization identifies four main dimensions of food insecurity: physical availability, economic and physical access, food utilization (nutritional status), and stability of these dimensions over time. A SYSTEMIC PROBLEM
According to Antonio Flores, secretary-general of the Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas, the issue of land distribution is connected to the issue of food insecurity of farmers. Flores says that one hectare of land can produce 100 cavans, but after the deduction of expenditures by the landowner, only 19 cavans are left for the farmer, which he claims would only sustain him and his family for at least three months. “’Yun ang dahilan na palaging kapos ang mga magsasaka, na tinawag na ‘the poorest of the poor’ sa kanayunan (That is the reason why farmers are always lacking, why they are called ‘the poorest of the poor’ in the countryside),” he shares. Stories of farm workers appealing for just land distri-
bution, such as the case of Hacienda Luisita, emphasize the disconnect between the Philippines as an agricultural country and the severe poverty farmers experience. The fight for genuine agrarian reform began with the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program in 1988 under the administration of former president Corazon Aquino, followed by an extension of this program called the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARPER). According to the Official Gazette, the program had distributed only 751,514 hectares of land, leaving 771,795 hectares of remaining landholdings. In the Peasants Electoral Agenda forum last February 3, then-candidate and now president Rodrigo Duterte lamented the failure of CARPER because farmers still lacked the capacity and resources to make their land productive. “The land reform was a farce not because it was not given, but the problem again is, there was no support from government,” Duterte said. Landless farmers turn to rice traders or usereros wheneve they need capital because according to Flores, they cannot apply for a bank loan. Then, the same usureros are the ones who buy the farmers’ product at prices below the market value.
“This time, sila na ang magpapatakbo ng buhay nila… Kaya nila ipinaglalaban ito na magkalupa sila kasi once nakuha [nila] ito, gaganda ang buhay ng pamilya nila.” — ANTHONY MARZAN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, KAISAHAN
Flores criticizes this exploitative relationship, citing that the National Food Authority pegs the price of rice at Php 17 per kilo, while the usureros set it at only Php 12 per kilo. When it rains and the farmers lack the facilities to keep the palay from getting wet, the price is further reduced to Php 6 or 7 per kilo. BEYOND LAND DISTRIBUTION
For Kaisahan, a non-government organization that legally assists farm workers in acquiring their land, the issue of agrarian reform and food security goes beyond the proper distribution of land. “Ang concern niya… pagkatapos [ka] makakuha ng lupa, paano maging mas productive ‘yung lupa para makasali at maka-contribute [ka] doon sa ekonomiya at saka doon sa supply ng pagkain immediately doon sa komunidad (It concerns what you will do with the land you own will so that it will become productive and you can contribute to the economy, as well as to the food supply in the immediate community),” says Anthony Marzan, executive director of Kaisahan. Marzan recalls scenarios wherein farmers lack both the skillset and the capital to utilize their awarded property. However, Maricel Tolentino, Kaisahan’s project development officer, is quick to add that other farmers who wait for land titles are able to pro-
duce vegetables and fruits within their small home lots. The dilemma, Marzan clarifies, is deciding what kind and how much of a crop to produce. In some cases, farmers cultivate high value crops that only contribute to household income but not to the collective food supply. Tolentino questions the notion of ensuring household food security first before planting crops that correspond to the demand of the larger market. “Pero yung problema naman… hindi naman lahat ng bagay makukuha mo sa household security. Kailangan mo ng income kasi paano yung ibang basic needs (But the problem there is you can’t get everything you need through household security. You also need income because what about the other basic needs)?” she says. INCLUSIVE SUPPORT SERVICES
Equipping farmers with the resources and the skills to cultivate their land can ultimately allow them to maximize the use of their land, and this responsibility lies heavily with the government. CARPER mandates that the government provide support to farmers through appropriate technology and research, and should provide them with adequate financial, production, marketing, and other support services. It also provides for the rights of farmers, farmworkers, landowners, cooperatives and other independent
farmers’ organizations to participate in the planning, organization, and management of the comprehensive reform program. However, Marzan says that there is a mismatch between the support offered by government and the needs of the beneficiaries. “Halimbawa, ako ay sugarcane farmer. Ang programa nung gobyerno ay nasa rice, nasa corn, so wala akong makukuhang support (For example, I’m a sugarcane farmer. The government’s program is for rice or corn, so I don’t receive support),” he explains. He claims that in 2015 there were 4.5 million agrarian reform beneficiaries, but only 40% have received support from the government. Some farmers have received farm inputs such as seedlings and fertilizers, while others got loans from the government. Only a small percentage of the farmers were able to avail of loans, grants for farm inputs, and even equipment such as farm-to-market roads and post-harvest facilities. CAPACIT Y BUILDING
Strengthening the role beneficiaries play in the market as well as in food security is just as important as providing inclusive support services. Tolentino compares the transition from “farm worker” to “landowner” to a student who used to receive allowance but now has to manage a business.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALO LANTIN
When beneficiaries are unable to make this adjustment, the loss of regular income from the landlord and inability to properly manage the land can lead to leasing back the land to a private company or individual. Marzan notes the necessity to help farmers find their role in the value chain of food production, whether it be as entrepreneurs, or as producers. He says that there are farmer beneficiaries that have more potential to become leaders and they have to be developed in order to assume these types of roles. Seasonal farmers, Marzan explains, are the most difficult to transition because they have been accustomed to earning income from landowners. However, he maintains that more farmers have a brighter outlook. “This time, sila na ang magpapatakbo ng buhay nila… Kaya nila ipinaglalaban ito na magkalupa sila kasi once nakuha [nila] ito, gaganda ang buhay ng pamilya nila (This time, they decide their livelihood… which is why they fight to own land because once they acquire this, the lives of their family will be better),” he says.
The GUIDON October 2016
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The plight of our providers BY MAXINE A. BUENAVENTURA AND MIA C. PANGILINAN SOURCES ARKIBONGBAYAN.ORG, AWID.ORG, BWORLDONLINE.COM, GMANEWS.TV, RAPPLER.COM
While quite a few laws have been passed to cater to the needs of farmers, these provisions still do not prove to be enough. Through the years, there have been numerous incidents of farmers fighting for their rights through mass actions and protests, some of which have even resulted to violence. In January 1987, an estimated 20,000 farmers camped outside the Department of Agrarian Reform of fice in Quezon City hoping for a dialogue with the government on issues such as genuine land reform, unsuitable work conditions, and low wages. On January 22, they decided to march to Malacañang to bring their concerns to thenPresident Corazon Aquino. Upon reaching Mendiola Street just outside the Palace, farmers were able to breach police lines,
leading law enforcement to open fire to the protesters. Thir teen farmers died in what was known as the Mendiola Massacre. A Citizens’ Mendiola Commission was created to investigate what happened. Despite this, the families of the victims have yet to receive justice as not one person has been apprehended and charged for the incident. More than two decades later in June 2009, around 800 farmers also went to Mendiola to protest the passage of a “weaker ” ex tension to the C o m p r e h e n s i v e A gr a r i a n Reform L aw. The farmers, coming from dif ferent provinces, came to Manila to protest peacefully. Instead, they were met with water cannons and p epp er spray. Some individuals had fainted due to the combined exhaustion from
the march and beatings from law enforcement . Religious and student organizations have denounced the violent incident. Last March 2016, farmers from different parts of North Cotabato and nearby provinces took action after suffering through the harsh effects of the El Niño-induced drought. Organizers of the protest reported participants from areas such as Makilala, Arakan, Antipas, and Kidapawan City. Their crops were heavily affected, leaving them in extreme hunger. They demanded that North Cotabato Governor Emmylou TaliñoMendoza release the promised 15,000 sacks of rice as relief from hunger. Instead, Mendoza reportedly offered to give three kilos of rice per person every three months, much less than what the farmers were asking for. In protest, several roads, including the Davao-Cotabato Highway in Kidapawan City,
were blocked. When police tried to disperse the surrounding farmers, they were met with farmers reportedly armed with weapons such as pieces of wood and large stones. Unable to stop them with water cannons, police eventually retaliated by means of gunfire. This led to three deaths and nearly 200 injuries. Six months since the incident, efforts to bring those involved in the violent encounter to justice are slow. Last May, Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipina s Secretary-General Antonio Flores urged then-presidentelect Rodrigo Duterte to bring justice to the farmers.
From farm to for fork RESEARCH BY ANDIE M. BERNAS AND MAXINE A. BUENAVENTURA, ILLUSTRATION BY JILL T. ARTECHE SOURCES AGNET.ORG, ASJ.UPD.EDU.PH, DA.GOV.PH, DLSU.EDU.PH, FAO.ORG, PHILSTAR.COM, RAPPLER.COM, UNAPCAEM.ORG, WORLDBANK.ORG
The country’s farmers face unfair circumstances despite being the ones who provide our food. They are posed with many challenges during the different stages of food production.
Looking for land
Irrigation systems
Harvesting the crops
Post-harvest facilities
Farm-to-market roads
47% of total Philippine land area is considered agricultural land. Of these, 13 million hectares are used for agricultural crops.
Used as supply water in order to cultivate fertile land, this is very important to the Philippines’ rice industry since irrigation is part of the process which creates rice paddies.
Typically requires the use of machinery and a lot of manpower, the limited amount of harvest makes this difficult.
In charge of processing, packaging, sanitizing, and quality-checking. These include threshers, milling equipment, moisture meters, dryers, and warehouses.
As the foundation of modern agriculture, farm-to-market roads are used to mobilize agricultural products to the market. It is a key for achieving food security.
PROBLEM Lack of funding from the government leads to low quality and quantity of technology needed.
PROBLEMS Lack of roads forces farmers to depend on “middlemen” to transport their products.
PROBLEMS Limited opportunity for Filipinos to increase agricultural land area Increase in population makes it difficult to set aside land for agricultural purposes. Agricultural land is rapidly being converted for residential, industrial, or commercial use. Land degradation and soil infertility Caused by single-cropping, erosion, excessive leaching, occurrence of soil erosion, and deforestation Conflicts over land ownership 700,000 hectares of land are yet to be distributed under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program
PROBLEMS Climate change and natural disasters heavily af fect system quality. Drought leads to water shortages and typhoons lead to flooding. Farmers are unable to consistently cultivate, harvest drops. Farmers are in debt to the National Irrigation Administration due to high maintenance fees.
PROBLEMS Agricultural workers are the poorest type of laborers. Revenue is not stable as they receive below minimum wage. Because of this, some farmers ironically experience starvation. Shortage in the number of farmers
Product delivery is delayed Quality of crops decreases. Consequently, consumers opt for foreign food products than local due to quality. Sales drop, affecting farmers’ livelihood.
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Beyond Loyola
The GUIDON October 2016
Who is the ‘other’s’ keeper? BY SEAN S. CHINGKAW AND BELLA R. PEREZ-RUBIO
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photograph of Omran Daqneesh, a Syrian boy who was pulled out of the rubble of a building brought down by an airstrike, has become viral on social media. Covered in blood and debris, he has become the face of Syria’s humanitarian crisis.
Since 2011, Syrians like Omran have been caught between a brutal civil war. Millions of Syrians have become refugees in search for a new life in Europe. But for those lucky enough to cross the Mediterranean, they discover that they are wrought with a whole new set of hardships. Some states like Hungary have exhibited xenophobic attitudes towards these refugees. Govern-
ment-printed pamphlets ahead of an October 2 referendum urged voters to reject the European Union’s migrant quotas, citing possible security threats that migrants may bring. “No one can say how many terrorists have arrived so far among the immigrants,” it says. These conditions make it next-to-impossible for refugees to have a real chance at rebuilding their lives.
Xenophobia, or fear of the foreign, is a manifestation of the concept of “the other,” coined by the philosopher Georg Friedrich Hegel. As part of his endeavor to explain his master-slave dialectic, he asserts that the relationship between “I” (thesis/master) and the “Other” (antithesis/slave) is characterized by a life-ordeath struggle. This dialectic, first introduced in his 1807 work Phenomenology of the Spirit, is still applicable today. In the xenophobic climate that many refugees live in today, they are always the “other.” Their death is always sought out by the “I”—sometimes physically and always ideologically. An example of this “ideological death” is Hungary’s aforementioned anti-immigrant propaganda. HEGELIAN ALIENATION
ALIENATING THE OTHER. The rhetoric of those like United States presidential candidate Donald Trump brings risk and danger to the displaced and excluded. ILLUSTRATION BY JILL T. ARTECHE
According to Benjamin San Jose, PhD, assistant professor at the Japanese Studies Department, this rise in xenophobia is essentially a “reaction to uncertainty.” He states that despite the attempts of some countries to explain away xenophobic action, their decisions are often guided by their wish to remain isolated from “others” who they feel may cause them harm. One example, he says, is the British people’s shock vote to leave the European Union, known as Brexit. At first, pro-Brexit campaigners tried to frame it as an issue of sovereignty and economic gain. Yet eventually, the campaign found a foothold in characterizing Brexit as a safeguard from having to accept foreign refugees into their country.
San Jose also cites the more obvious example of United States Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump’s promise to build a wall to safeguard Americans from Mexicans and foreigners. Needless to say, Trump is not so open to accepting refugees. Throughout his campaign, he upheld the idea that Syrian refugees are “Trojan horses,” a means of sneaking terrorists into America. This xenophobic framing of refugees sells to a group of people who are disposed to “other.” The natural inclination of the thesis or the “I” is to seek the death of the antithesis, the “other.” Keep in mind that death, in Hegel’s theory, takes multiple forms. Death can refer to exclusion or subordination, but consider as well that the exclusion of a displaced people with no country, no money, and no rights is likely to lead to their literal death as well. LEGAL EXCLUSION
Enrique Leviste, PhD, assistant professor at the Sociology and Anthropology Department, states that “othering” is “a collection of processes, tactics, and strategies that tends to promote a particular set of narratives and a particular set of beliefs but at the same time…alienates or marginalizes other ideas or narratives about a single reality.” Beyond the simple labelling of those that are culturally and ethnically different as an “other” by society, “othering” can also be done through legal means by the state. An example of this “legal othering,” Leviste says, is a country’s immigration policies.
He says that it is “basically…a way by which a state, a nation-state or a country, can legitimize its refusal to accept refugees or foreigners from being assimilated or from being a part of mainstream culture.” “A huge segment, perhaps, of the nation state is more likely to subscribe to such a mindset or to such a thinking primarily because it is sanctioned by the state. And anything that is sanctioned by the state is deemed ‘legal’, ‘correct’, and ‘acceptable’. This is not to say that it is beyond contestation,” Leviste says. In its very core, “othering” is an interplay between those that wield power in society and those that are bereft of it. As the marginalized in society, the “other” lacks the social capital to act against the machinations of the dominant powers of society. Because of this gulf in social capital, inequality and injustice persists. When asked what could be done, Leviste asserts the importance of critical education. “People say that the school is a safe haven for students because it is a neutral platform. I beg to disagree. The school shouldn’t be neutral. The school should be critical. In other words, it should be clear about taking particular positions. It can help in making sense of these inequalities, of the ‘othering’ process, by taking on the position, or the cudgels, for those that are historically marginalized,” he says.
SK defended over abolition plans BY NICOLE A. LORENA AND ABELARDO M. TORIO
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he promise of radical change that brought the new administration to power extends even to the lowest rungs of government office. Long-proposed plans for postponement of the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections scheduled on October 31 have gained traction with the support of President Rodrigo Duterte and the congressional supermajority, and has made significant progress towards enactment. And the proposals for electoral change get much more drastic. Plans for the abolition of the office of the barangay kagawad and the entire SK system have been forwarded by no less than House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez. According to Alvarez, Php 24 billion would be saved annually from the abolition of kagawad and SK posts. He also criticized the SK system as being a launchpad for future politicians, where the youth are taught “how to play dirty politics.” However, Alvarez’s proposals, particularly the abolition of the SK, have been opposed by other legislators, heads of national government agencies, and even by some of his allies in Congress. Debate over the SK abolition has sprung up, with one side citing irrelevance and the other citing empowerment.
REFORM OR SCRAP?
The SK was institutionalized alongside the Local Government Code in 1991. Along with the empowerment of local government units, the code sought to empower the youth and provide an avenue for their participation in governance. According to the code, the SK is responsible “to decide on important issues affecting the youth of the barangay” and “to carry out the objectives of the youth in the barangay.” Yet since its inception, the SK has been a constant target of criticism. It has been called ineffective, wasteful, and a facilitator for nepotism, corruption and dynastic control. A study commissioned by the United Nations Children’s Fund found the SK to be “generally weak, [because] the potentials of the SK are not being maximized.” In response, calls to abolish the SK have long been made. Motions for SK abolition have been filed in 2004 and 2007 in the House of Representatives, and in 2010 in the Senate. Defenders of the SK have called instead for reform. These efforts culminated in the passage of Republic Act 10742, the SK Reform Law, in 2016. In an interview with The GUIDON, Senator Bam Aquino, co-author and cosponsor of the SK Reform Law, said that the legislation was meant to “take the existing institution of SK... and put the measures in place to make sure that what was good about it remained and what was not would be improved.”
Aquino highlighted three particular reform measures in the law. First was the increase in age brackets for SK officials from 15-17 years old to 18-24 which he described as “a matter of legality” since “at 18, you [already] have legal obligation and accountability to the contracts and projects you handle.” Second was the institutionalization of the Local Youth Development council, which would “[involve] different civil society youth groups as a support system and advisory council for the SK officials” to ensure the relevance of SK efforts. Finally, and most importantly for Aquino, was the anti-dynasty clause, which was meant “to empower young leaders that don’t necessarily have a popular last name but are capable and eager to serve their community.” POSTPONEMENT, NOT ABOLITION
In spite of the SK Reform Law, the abolition of the SK system still remains a potent possibility. Supporters of the SK have continued to defend its relevance, supporting the postponement but opposing the abolition. James Gutierrez, Presidential Staff Officer at the National Youth Commission’s Regional Youth Development Division (NYC-RYDD) says that there is “a clamor for the youth to be in governance since they comprise 30% of the population.” Gutierrez adds that the NYC is “fine with the postponement but we are not for the abolishment [of the SK].”
He says that the youth’s opportunity to learn the ropes of governing the local office should not be taken away from them. “[The youth] are our future leaders… Their voices should be heard and they shouldn’t be ostracized.” Similarly, Mel Santella, chief at NYC-RYDD, said that the people from the NYC are still very optimistic towards the retention of the SK because of the SK Reform Law. “In the meantime that there is a debate and the discourse going on whether to abolish [the SK] or not, we in the NYC are still in high spirits that there is still an SK,” he said. On the other hand, Andi Legaspi (4 BS CTM), former SK representative for Barangay Blue Ridge A, admitted that her experience in local government allowed her to learn both its good and bad sides. “I got to see how there can be kind people in the government, meaning that I also unfortunately got a firsthand look at how SK was the supposed breeding ground for corruption and whatever it is that’s wrong in the government,” she said. However, Legaspi thinks that the changes imposed by the SK Reform Law could be beneficial for the youth council in the long run. “It’s good that they’re changing the age bracket,” Legaspi said. “It’s important for the people in SK to have accountability for their decisions and to have a backbone when calling the shots.”
WELCOMED REFORM. Andi Legaspi, former SK representative, believes that some of the changes in SK policies are beneficial. PHOTO BY JUSTIN T. ANG
EDITOR: ADRIAN M. GOH · EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: CELINE D. NATIVIDAD · LAYOUT ARTIST: ANNIKA N. HERNANDEZ
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Features
A SHOW OF TALENT
Stardom comes with a price. Do these show-winning artists really find the success they’re looking for?
Behind the Screams
With the fanfare surrounding tales of horror and the supernatural still alive and kicking, we’re invited to look beyond the screen for how exactly the horror genre speaks about our culture today.
BY BEA C. CONSTANTINO AND SAMANTHA C. LEDESMA
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t’s all too familiar to the Filipino eye—the protagonist covered in blood as she bolts towards an escape, the eerie music building up before the climax, the character’s screams at each jump scare. But not only is it all too familiar; it’s what the Filipino audience seems to constantly crave for. Here in the Philippines, it’s no surprise that a globally renowned zombie thriller such as Train to Busan (2016) could gain so much attention and even cultivate hype before its initial release. After all,
the consistent fanfare surrounding horror and supernatural tales have always been a conventional part of our culture, not only because it reflects old tradition and local history, but also because it continues to be relevant to our experiences on both a personal and national level. A TASTE FOR THE THRILL
From the first horror film Ang Mananaggal back in 1927 to the latest Shake, Rattle & Roll film, the Philippine mov ie indust r y ’s horror and supernatural archive definitely continues to grow. International films are also making it big here, as ongoing hor r or f r a nch i s e s l i ke
The Conjuring and Insidious gain more patronage from the Filipino audience. Jethro Tenorio, Assistant Professor of the Filipino Department, says that there is a collective consciousness amongst audiences of horror movies. “This is a shared experience among [the genre’s] viewers, na there’s this sense of relief,” he says, “Nire-reaffirm natin amongst ourselves kung ano nga yung shared notions of fear (We reaffirm a mongst ourselves t hese shared notions of fear).” This is evident in how horror movies revolve around elements that shed light on issues about humanity and morality. In fact, while Train to Busan initially drew in its audience with the impression of it being a zombie thriller, it was the emotional narrative and personal drama among the characters that boosted the film’s fame. Filipino works of horror and the supernatural aren’t strangers to this. Yanggaw (2008) and Patayin sa Sindak si Barbara (2008), after all, were horror narratives that primarily focused on breaches in morality and family dynamics, appealing to the viewer’s human experience and proximity to horrors of a more emotional kind. From the iconic Kris Aquino scream to the familiar Filipino haunted house, the root of our love for horror also stems from folk tales and superstitious beliefs that are deeply embedded in the Filipino culture. Such horror films magnify these traditions. “ The familiarity of the local will always be its unique selling proposition,” says Tenorio. “Kahit pa mura o cheap ang prosthetics na ginagamit. Sa tingin ko, ang lapit-lapit din kasi sa ating kultural na karanasan ang
horror films (Even if cheap prosthetics are used [in the films], I think that horror films are very close to our cultural experience).” FRIGHT OR FLIGHT
Aside from the appreciation of culture, social context is also a factor in the undeniable Filipino taste for horror and the supernatural. In his paper “Shake, Rattle and Roll Horror Franchise and the Specter of Nation-Formation in the Ph i l ip p i n e s ,” D e a n o f the UP College of Mass Communication Rolando B. Tolentino writes that horror has the “ability to be used as a filter for individual anxieties of the audience.” Literary tropes found in horror movies also reflect the common social structures that Filipino viewers can relate to. The films, according to Tolentino, are therefore a “translation of historica l terror [into] filmic horror.” An example of these is the “victim-is-a lways-fema le” trope—a ref lection of how women are often treated or seen as damsels in distress in both history and media. We see this in movies such as Hiwaga sa Balete Drive (1988) and Segunda Mano (2012), both of which por trayed vengeful female spirits after they were mistreated and murdered by men. These “abjects” or horrific objects, also fall under the fear “of the indigenous, of the exotic, [and] of the ancient,” according to Tenorio. He adds that the source of fear is the power of horror to disrupt social order, saying that “mayroong kaayusan, tapos sila ‘yung nasa laylayan sa labas ng kaayusan na ‘yun, kaya kinakatakutan (there is order, and [these abjects] are those on the peripheries of order,
ILLUSTRATION BY CHAPY B. FADULLON
“The familiarity of the local will always be its unique selling proposition. Even if cheap prosthetics are used [in the films], I think that horror films are very close to our cultural experience.” — JETHRO TENORIO ASSISTANT PROFESSOR KAGAWARAN NG FILIPINO
that’s why they elicit fear).” Horror is also a means to rid Filipinos of their daily woes. The inner turmoil of the viewers is given a reenactment through film, and media therefore liberates its viewers by giving them a different version of reality. Filipinos utilize the thrill they feel in horror movies or stories to give them reprieve from the changes occurring in their daily life, whether personal or political. “Nandoon din yung relief because ‘yung experience mo ngayon of the horrific, of what is fearful, ay nasa safe kang environment. Alam mong ito ay likhang isip, alam mong ito ay fiction (The relief is there because your experience of the horrific, of what is fearful, [is experienced] in a safe environment. You know it’s imaginary,
and it’s fiction),” says Tenorio. THE SHAPESHIFTER
Along with the historical and cultural content nestled within these narratives, horror movies also contain certain aspects that help sustain their relevance to the common moviegoer. Tenorio affirms that this genre will remain relevant “hangga’t conscious siya sa mga nuances ng culture natin (as long as [the genre] is conscious of our culture’s nuances).” A significant example of this is how, in many occurrences, technology has very much been embedded into the genre. Horror movies have evolved with each new generation of technological advances. BEHIND › 3
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Features
CO-WORKING SPACES:
Points of productivity Welcome to the age of the open office, where quirky facilities and a sense of community replace cubicle boundaries. Co-working spaces make that switch from your typical café to a haven where you have everything you need to meet deadlines. BY PATRICIA A. DY, ANNICKA B. KOTEH, AND FRANCIS R. TOLEDO
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rifting eyes follow you as you tread unfamiliar ground. With tables of various shapes and sizes, the sweet aroma of coffee in the air, and baristas at the ready, the scene may look like your typical café until you see the showers, napping area, and conference rooms. It doesn’t matter if you plan to stay or not. Despite the alien feeling, you decide to see what these places have to offer. The further you go, the more laptops you observe cluttered with plates of food and cups of coffee, amidst the sounds of typing and talking. In this small space, you find a
mix of both work and play— an oasis of sorts. With the ever-changing trends and the need for sources of motivation, it’s no surprise that people find places like these appealing. Co-working environments thus present a new sort of productivity—one that transcends office cubicles, library desks, and distractions that would be best left at home. In such settings, ideas can brew from like-minds and caffeine-fueled thinking. The challenge now is for these shared spaces to match the everchanging needs of millennials. TWO-IN-ONE
Tech nolog y Ve n t u r e Planning lecturer Kristine Claire Ongcangco says “Hindi pa uso [before] ‘yung co-working
space [that] you rent, [or] pay a minimum fee to stay half-day or the whole day [that also served unlimited] coffee.” She explains that co-working spaces are expected to be a more formal and conducive place to work in while remaining an affordable destination for students. Ongcangco herself co-founded Concept Machine, an information technology start-up, while she was still in college—back when there were no local co-working spaces, and her nights were spent programming with her colleague in cafés along Katipunan. Focus is the name of the game when it comes to co-working spaces. “You can work at home, but [there you have] all your dogs, siblings, and parents. Then there’s the coffee shop, [where
PHOTOS BY TRINA CAMACHO, GABBY F. JIMENEZ, AND BRYAN T. TORRES
you don’t know much people],” she continues. “Then [you have] co-working space[s], talagang office set-up with the nice tables and ergonomic chairs.” True enough, there is a certain aura of productivity in co-working spaces. However, like any other business, these establishments must find ways to keep themselves fresh in the eyes of the public. One relatively new place with unique facilities is Diligence Café. The café boasts of its unlimited beverages, shower facilities, and pillow services for nap time. And these are what appeal to its target market: College students. “Hugot ko ‘to lahat from college (I got this all from college),” says Elmerei Cuevas, CEO and founder of Diligence Café, when asked
A show of talent As you step up on stage, strobe lights blind your eyes, a crowd cheers you on, and concert speakers blare music right into your ears. You falter exponentially with a thought you’ve put away since fame: Is this what you signed up for? BY MIKAELA T. BONA, ANDREW D. CAMBRI, AND JOMA M. ROBLE
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he local music industry is a hotbed of opportunities for artists springing from different musical backgrounds, ultimately giving diversity to the local music scene. Many artists—of which many are vocalists—are discovered through the web, with their music either having achieved instant attention or having become sleeper hits that slowly went from unknown to wildly successful. Then there are those singers who joined variety shows and from there, successfully jumpstarted their careers. Filipinos are fond of singing competitions, as seen in the success of shows such as Pinoy Dream Academy, The Voice of the Philippines, The Voice Kids, X Factor Philippines, and To The Top. Variety shows like Eat Bulaga! and the like also provide short talent search segments. All too often, the contestants provide many stories of what led them to the stage, whether it be on a whim, for their dreams, or out of hardship. Filipinos resonate with the singers’ inspirational tales and from their struggles in life. Being a showcase of talent, with structured formats and
relatable contestants, these shows enamor the masses of people watching on TV with their appeal and ability to entertain and impress. But with more attention being given to the rising expectations of those running the industry, the singers’ pursuit for distinction and success may be hindered by what those in charge behind the scenes want and expect them to present. ILLUSTRATION BY
ALL FOR SHOW
CHAPY B. FADULLON
Although there are quite a number of talent shows on local television, not many can claim to be as popular as The Voice of the Philippines. While it has only aired for two years, it has already gained a massive following in the Philippines, with certain performances reaching millions of views on YouTube. This show, along with many others like it, claims to search for local artists with genuine talent and provide them with deals, record labels, and backing should they win the competition. However, the question remains about whether or not this really is the turnout for many of these aspiring artists. “Very rarely do you get in these competitions with original work. Most of the time, people only get in with covers. There is
AND ANNIKA N. HERNANDEZ
no encouragement on your side to create something entirely new,” says Rocky Deleste, former head for the Miscellaneous Instruments pool in the Ateneo Musicians’ Pool. So far, The Voice of the Philippines has only produced two winners: Mitoy Yonting and Jason Dy. Both won without ever performing original songs, rather, only doing covers. Now, after winning the show and releasing their albums, they still have not succeeded as major artists or singers. Lately, they have been delegated to minor and supporting roles in local telenovelas and variety shows with Yonting in Home Sweetie Home and Dy in
Be My Lady. “The sad truth that my director told [us] is that the first thing they look [for] in a person is their looks. So first it is looks, then personality, then talent,” shares Mico Cruz, who himself competed in To The Top, a boy band reality show from GMA Network. As with Cruz’s experiences, many aspiring artists have also felt that these talent shows seem to lack in prioritizing actual talent. “I have this one friend who auditioned for [The Voice of the Philippines] and she had a great voice but they didn’t accept her. What they said [was this]: “You have a great voice but your story… We can’t work with your story,”
recounts Deleste. It seems local talent is being snubbed for spectacle, exhibiting how talent shows focus on being shows first and foremost over showing talent—and as Cruz recites from memory, “show business is still business.” NEVER GOING OUT OF STYLE
It seems to be a never-ending trend for these contestants to consistently choose highpitched songs such as those by Mariah Carey or Whitney Houston as a show of a high— but not necessarily wide— vocal range. These types of melodies appeal to the crowd: High notes screamed into the microphone, which are then
reciprocated with screams from awestruck viewers. Another perpetual trend appears to be ballads, which have always seemed to appeal to the Filipino masses. Versatile and considered banal by some, they are often found in teleserye soundtracks. The redundant use of ballads and a knack for foreign music within the spectrum of singing talent create a showcase of music that isn’t particularly memorable. This lack of innovation towards different styles can be linked to simple market demand. If the people just want A SHOW › 4
The GUIDON October 2016
about the café’s conceptualization. “I realized that as students or as people in general we all have dreams; we all have goals,” he explains. “But we don’t have the place to do the nitty-gritty stuff.” For students to tackle the nittygritty, Cuevas designed Diligence Café with comfort and concentration in mind. There, one can focus on work and accomplish tasks within a relaxed environment. “We opted to actually follow the business model of a co-working
space pero hybrid with a café,” Cuevas recalls. The presence of all the basic needs such as food and other facilities within a public business setting adds to the efficacious atmosphere of such co-working spaces. SELECT AND CONNECT
Diligence, which sits squarely between café and corporate hub, is just one among many shared spaces in Katipunan. Places like Cuago and The Study
have also emerged to offer meeting rooms for students. Long before these, however, was 47 East, which was aimed at helping young professionals get their ideas off the ground. A man named Allan Cristobal had predicted this co-working trend. By 2012, the entrepreneur had transformed an old house along Esteban Abada into a student dormitory—one that also boasted of Katipunan’s first coworking space on its ground floor.
Today, this address is 47 East, with a couple of function rooms above and working areas below. “The main idea here is to be a business incubator,” explains Lei Natividad, 47 East’s business unit head. “We want to help young ones— the entrepreneurs—if they have something in mind.” Office trimmings aside, 47 East offers the chance to build a brand. “They, [the entrepreneurs], can use the address for
their correspondences,” says Natividad. The formal venue then gives weight to calling cards and client meet-ups, without the expense of a private office rental. But careers still thrive on connections and 47 East engages its coworkers for that very purpose. “We try to do business matching,” Natividad continues. “If you don’t initiate that, some people will just be quiet about what they do. We try to look at their profiles and make recommendations.” The result is a community soaked in learning opportunities. 47 East’s staff occasionally directs freelancing patrons to certain jobs. The space has hosted tech seminars and coding contests, among other events. The semi-annual “Oh Minds!” networking night allows startup enthusiasts to come together and mingle over food and drinks. Through these efforts, co-working extends its benefits past physical housing. As Natividad puts it, “[The perks are] these services we offer to them. It’s not just [about] the client relationship.” MAXIMUM EFFICIENCY
Students and professionals alike find comfort and productivity in co-working spaces. While they can simply accomplish tasks at home or in other cafés, they still choose to stay in places like Diligence Café, 47 East, or The Study. A regular Atenean customer of The Study, Riz Comia, says, “I live eight kilometers—and two main avenues of traffic—from Ateneo and these co-working spaces, but I still [visit] them because there are just too many distractions at
Behind ‹1
The horror classic The Ring (2002), for i n s t a nc e , exhibited a pattern in which certain characters died a week after having watched a particular videotape. The movie is often satirized using the iconic image of an angry ghost crawling out from a television set. This definitely resonated with the viewers, who, at the time, were accustomed to their landlines, VHS tapes, and television as digital home entertainment. Today however, it is socia l med ia t hat ha s g loba l ly a f fe c te d how our culture is shaped. Unfriended (2015), in particular, generated a huge amount of hype here in the country. The entire movie was oriented as though the viewers were watching through a realistic laptop screen as the characters in the movie interacted through Facebook, Skype, and YouTube. The film managed to incorporate the social media age into the film’s premise, making the narrative feel closer and more concrete with the audience’s current reality. All in all, there’s more to the genre than the horror and supernatural elements that deviate from the narratives of everyday life. Moreover, the fanfare surrounding these stories can be linked to how the genre is, in a way, a reflection of reality—albeit in a higher form—and how it still continues to evolve and adapt to societal development. This just goes to show that the long queues of people waiting to watch the latest horror flick at the cinema says quite a lot about how the genre speaks of our culture today.
Otherworldly origins
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home. Traditional cafés also are quite peaceful most of the time, but they have become millennial pools for meet-ups and dates.” Moreover, the facilities in coworking spaces cater to the workrelated and external needs of customers. “The very atmosphere will make you want to work, especially if you’re surrounded by people who are focused on their work as well,” Comia adds. The abundance of electrical outlets, high-speed internet, and specialized meeting rooms prove useful to customers in achieving productivity. With the work atmosphere and avant-garde utilities, co-working spaces can be seen as the place for efficiency. As proof of co-working spaces’ success, Diligence Café is already undergoing optimization, the process of making their business system fully functional and near-perfect, only after its first month. However, Cuevas knew his co-working space would be a hit, but not at such a fast pace. “People would comment, tag, or share doon sa isang post namin na, we need this in ganito, we need this in Manila, we need this in Cebu, we need this in Davao,” he says. “People come to us and they’re asking, ‘Hey, I have money right now, where do you want your next branch to be?’” At this rate, people are sure to see more of co-working spaces and their innovative services that diverge from the traditional café setup. These co-working spaces likewise serve as avenues for efficiency and platforms for networking. With fast-paced shifts in the interests of millennials, these shared spaces stay in the now.
BY CELINE D. NATIVIDAD ILLUSTRATION BY CHAPY B. FADULLON
As October days grow cooler and the nights get longer, there are moments when you can’t help but feel as if someone were watching your every move. Do you turn your head to check who’s there, or continue onwards with the gut-wrenching feeling that someone or something is right behind you— looming ever closer?
Vanishing Hitchhiker In one of folklorist Jan Harold Brunvand’s various compilations of urban legends, he writes that people travelling by vehicle at night encounter a seemingly harmless hitchhiker who eerily vanishes without a trace after getting inside the car. Being one of the more popular “ghost story archetypes,” the myth of the vanishing hitchhiker originated years back such that even before, the vehicles involved were that of coaches and horses instead of automobiles.
Headless Priest Most towns have their own variations of this particular ghost story, but the common element among all these tales is the headless priest prowling at night in graveyards or abandoned ruins, either carrying his head or looking for it. Manifestations of this could even be seen in many Filipino horror movies, an example being D’ Anothers (2005).
Bloody Mary They say that when you utter the words “Bloody Mary” in front of a mirror three times, the gruesome sight of a girl drenched in blood will come to greet you. According to folklore expert Elis Bill, this particular ghost story actually originates from a coming-of-age ritual where a young woman discovers whether or not she will live long enough to meet her future husband.
Headless Nun The city of San Juan in La Union, historically occupied by the Japanese, is said to be haunted by ghosts of those who died during World War II. If one happens to pass by a church at midnight on a full moon and hears the toll of the bell, one should make haste, as this signals the approach of a ghastly apparition. Suddenly, an eerie breeze slices through the stale midnight air. At this, you might feel the spinetingling sensation of wavy hair brushing against your nape before you can even let out a scream at the sight of the headless nun herself.
White Lady In the Philippines, almost every town has its own version of the white lady: A beautiful woman with long, black hair, dressed in all white, who is usually said to have experienced a tragic death and is seeking revenge. Variations of this can be seen in other countries like the Netherlands, where these spirits are called vrouven in wit (woman in white) and in Japan where they are known as yuki-onna (snow woman).
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Features
The GUIDON October 2016
SIMULACRA:
A show
The importance of graphic design
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a voice-centered formula and not something a little more experimental, changes in style with not occur. “I think that [recording labels and shows] think that singing can bring them to a wider market. Everyone sings in the karaoke. [Their] notion is that singing can penetrate a larger market as compared to instrumentalists,” explains Cruz. People love ballads and pitch-intense songs because they feel that they too can sing them in the same way—at least during karaoke. Unlike the more exclusive realm of instrumentals, almost everyone can sing or at least hold a tune. Cruz says, “Singing is the cheapest way [to make] music. Everyone has a voice box but not everyone has a piano or guitar.” This market demand to stick to a particular style because it seems reproducible even by amateurs stifles the creation and popularization of different styles that might not be so easily imitated. It limits our ability to be able to create a more unique musical identity. “We don’t really have our own identity as Filipinos. We just follow. In terms of music, musical arrangement, [and] lyrics—we try to copy [foreign styles],” says Cruz. “Everyone below just follows what’s on top. Majority of the masses like it.”
Often times underappreciated, graphic designers do not only add more color to society, but help create and change it as well. BY SAFFI C. ARCENAS, KAYLA T. CADENAS, AND KATYA F. LICHAUCO
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pon seeing a swastika symbol, many may be quick to relate it with Nazism, failing to realize that the swastika is actually a religious emblem in the Jain faith. While its Jain context meant for it to represent “auspiciousness” in spiritual attainment, Nazi partisans used it to represent a fiendish movement that advocated change in 20th century Europe. More recently, Paris was beset by a series of terrorist attacks in late 2015 and in the aftermath, a symbol of the Eiffel tower within a peace sign made its rounds on social media. Its caption read: “Peace for Paris.” In this case, art and symbols were used to spread awareness and support for the victims of terror attacks. Design is a form of art, an avenue for self-expression, and moreover, it can capture ideas and beliefs in ways that words alone cannot. It uses images, patterns, and symbols that altogether aim to inform and attract people. Because of this, it has become an effective medium for conveying messages that impact other minds. With the 21st century allowing modern and fresh variations of art to emerge, the demand for designers in different fields of work has grown. However, amidst all this involvement, not all designers are being given adequate compensation for their work.
The Internet has become a way for graphic designers to exhibit their work and speak up for social causes. Richard Mercado, information design senior and graphic designer for Ateneo publications Heights and The GUIDON, says, “The most popular way [to show your design] is through social media. People get to know you firsthand through what they see online.” This is why many organizations and businesses strive to make their websites as eye-catching as possible. Graphic designers are involved not only in social movements, but also in political campaigns. Local aspiring officials recruit designers to create memorable posters and logos that can capture their target audience. One technique is to use colors and symbols that people recognize or associate with positive attributes. Yellow ribbons, for example, are used to pay homage to the late Ninoy Aquino in commemoration of his assassination more than two decades ago. Since then, those that share his wife Corazon’s and son Noynoy’s visions have incorporated the yellow ribbon into their political campaigns. Mercado says that design is a platform to solve problems. “There’s so much more that design—specifically information design—can solve, rather than just [make] things pretty,” he says. Graphic design is more than just a tool to spread information; it’s also a catalyst for social awareness.
RASTERIZED
While art normally aims to create or imitate beauty, design aims to transform art into something more functional and practical. In the past, designers were mostly sought out in architecture, fashion, and engineering, which are more functional in lifestyle. Nowadays, they’re also found in social media, business, politics, and social movements —their functionality today revolves more on gaining people’s attention.
GAME CHANGER
As graphic design is a prominent medium used in various fields, knowledgeable designers are vital to an organization’s operations. They’re frequently needed to conceptualize posters and other paraphernalia for their events and activities, in line with their respective goals. Alyssa Guerra, Assistant Vice President for Creatives in the Ateneo Collegiate Society of Advertising, notes that the
“There’s so much more that design — specifically information design —can solve, rather than just [make] things pretty.” — RICHARD MERCADO BFA ID 2017
REFINED, LIKE SUGAR
most challenging part of turning her clients’ visions into a tangible reality is “making [sure the] poster [is] in theme with [the organization’s] feel.” The process is tedious, as even the nitty-gritty details are taken into account to ensure uniformity across the board. It is especially important for groups in the SectorBased Cluster of the Council of Organizations of the Ateneo to uphold their advocacies, as their overall aesthetic must be in line with their ultimate goal: Spreading awareness. For example, Tugon, an organization that advocates against sexual abuse and abandonment of children, uses the symbol of a pinwheel to signify “turning one’s luck around.” The logo is incorporated in all of their posters, blasts, and even in a project called “Pinwheels for Change.” Another forerunner in championing design is Adobo Magazine, the premier publication for branding and advertising in the country. Janelle Barretto Squires, the Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, describes the publication as an advocate of creativity and design. They execute their client’s ideas and decipher the perfect media placement, ensuring that their message is well conveyed. While the advancements in design technology and editing software have made processes simpler, Squires stresses that having a creative eye is still important, as this resonates deep in the heart of advertising. “You can really change the world and be a
game changer just by being creative,” she says.
PHOTOS BY GAB R. MESINA
WIPE THE CANVAS CLEAN
Despite design’s relevance in society, there has been an outcry from designers regarding the respect for their craft, particularly in how much they’re being paid, if they even get commissions at all. Many designers have attributed this to an inability to understand the processes behind designing. Designers prioritize making information more accessible by creating images that present concise information for audiences with shorter attention spans. The results are simple logos and symbols, which are often misconstrued to be “effortlessly” made. “Sa sobrang ganda ng facade, it’s hard to get behind it as well,” says Alfred Marasigan, a lecturer at the Fine Arts Department. Information design junior Arin Mukhi says that artists aren’t only motivated by internal passion but also by survival and money. There is a tendency to forget that those who have decided to pursue these professions also intend to make a profit out of their craft. One hurdle designers face in terms of compensation is standard pricing. Certainly, the concept of a “standard” in the realm of art is a tough idea to pin down. Raising the issue of standardization means questioning not only the baseline for pricing, but also what makes a graphic designer. Tata Yap, another lecturer at the Fine Arts Department, feels that establishing a designer
union is a step in the right direction. She explains that designers cannot just be compared to lawyers or doctors because these professions are licensed, and are unfairly viewed to be “more credible.” In the Philippines, the closest designers get to a license is a degree. Yap argues that many young designers often settle for meager salaries because they aren’t informed about the value of their labor. However, pricing opens up another argument about what exactly is being given monetary value in the work of designers. Several factors come into play with the value designers place on their works: The intricacies of the process, the reputation of the designers, their skills, and even the sentimental value they place on their works. With varying pay and a lack of understanding from society, one comes to admire the boldness with which designers choose their craft. But Marasigan argues that it is a calculated risk, one that entails entering an industry that just recently became aware it was one and is therefore laying the foundational blocks only now. Designers walk their career paths knowing they are at the forefront of an industry’s establishment and as their skill grows, so does their vitality to the community.
Boy bands such as that of Cruz’s have begun embedding themselves in the Filipino music scene, alongside groups like Chicser, 1:43, Filharmonic, and Take Off. The local industry heavily influences what they’re required to do, training all members to achieve a certain image. A process of directed refinement through workshops, practiced routines, controlled fashion, and the like, are what these artists must go through. A great example of how far this can go is in the way the K-Pop industry produces its starlets. Girl and boy groups are contracted for up to 13 years and then consistently trained all throughout. Clear-cut and very identifiable personalities and images are conceptualized for each artist. Their managers and backers then begin making sure every single star has equal exposure for the public, maximizing all that they can from the appeal of their artists. The question that remains is whether all these talent searches, manipulative support, and focus on making a good show are actually making a significant contribution to the development of local music and artists. It appears that innovation, originality, and the focus on musical talent could be overlooked in favor of what may already be tried and tested, what can be controlled and formulated, and what seem to be repetitive interests amongst the people. In the end, it seems like talent shows and the local industry have direct objectives when it comes to the artists and boy bands that they choose to win or to support. And all too often, once these artists find the success they’ve been looking for, it becomes a restrictive environment for them, with imposed expectations on what they should do, what their public image should be, and what they should play rather than what they could play.
EDITOR: GABRIELLE M. LOMBOS · EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: MANUEL M. ALDEGUER · LAYOUT ARTIST: COLLEEN P. DE LUNA
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Inquiry
MIND YOUR BUSINESS
Business and ethics: a false dichotomy?
HELP WANTED:
When employment expires BY ANDIE M. CASAS AND JAYVEE A. DEL ROSARIO
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nconstitutional, prohibited, a hindrance to skill development—these were the terms the 2016 presidential candidates used to describe contractual labor. In a series of debates marked by disagreements and rebuttals held last April, contractualization was an issue all five candidates unanimously stood against. Promises of abolishing the practice were made as soon as President Duterte was elected in office. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) estimates that 416,000 Filipinos are contractual laborers. This many are at the receiving end of employers’ possibly exploitative and abusive practices. Their jobs have expiration dates; they undergo the end of contract or “endo” scheme before the end of the five-month mark—three-month if probationary—of being employed. Aside from endo, contractual employees may also experience what Atty. Ces Alvero Azucena, Jr. of the Philippine Daily Inquirer calls “deceptive contractorship.” This involves the repeated renewal of a contractual employee’s contract. In this way, the employer is able to keep its labor supply intact while workers never become regular employees. They remain outside the scope of being legally entitled to benefits besides mandatory ones such as Social Security System (SSS) and PhilHealth. Articles 106 to 109 and 294 of the Philippine Labor Code regard this practice as unlawful. Industria l psychologist Emerald Jay D. Ilac, PhD of the Psychology Department says that contractualization is highest in the food and service industries. But that is not to say that contractual labor is hard to find in the university setting: In the Ateneo, contractual labor is still practiced in the Gonzaga cafeteria. A PERISHABLE LABOR
Hired by the Ateneo de Manila Multi-Purpose Cooperative (AMPC), the joint enterprise that manages the cafeteria, Lisa* works on a three-month contract basis. She started working for AMPC early this year and has since had different positions, each valid for one contract. The most recent job she’s been assigned to in the cafeteria ends in the near future. Right now, Lisa feels secure
about being renewed for her next term. Still, like most contractual employees, she admits she gets antsy about her job, particularly when classes suspend. “Iba kasi ‘yung regular sa contractual. Kasi pag-contractual ka, on-call ka lang. Mas maganda kung regular, kasi ‘pag [contractual ka], walang estudyante, wala kang trabaho, hindi ka papasok, unlike ng regular na kahit umuulan, bumabagyo, walang estudyante, may trabaho sila (Contractual workers are different from regular ones. If you’re contractual, you work on call. It’s better to be regular because if you’re contractual, no students means no work, unlike regular employees who have work even if there’s a storm and there aren’t any students),” Lisa shares. With inconstant wages and punctuated employment periods, contractual workers in AMPC have less stable income. AMPC follows a nowork-no-pay policy for contractual workers; if classes are suspended in the Loyola Schools, Lisa receives no payment that day, unlike regular staff. On
“Sigurado lahat ‘yon; sabay ang hindi pa sigurado: employment.” — MARC OLIVER DG. PASCO DEPARTMENT OF PHILOSOPHY
days when there are classes, however, Lisa and others like her earn minimum wage (Php 491), minus SSS, PhilHealth, and PAG-IBIG fees. Ana*, a cashier who has been a regular AMPC employee for decades, sympathizes with the plight of her contractual peers. “Sila walang [separation and retirement pays]. Kumbaga [kahit] 10 years na sila [nagtatrabaho], hindi na [nabibilang] ‘yung 10 years nila noon...kaya kawawa sila (Contractual workers don’t have separation and retirement pays. In other words, even if they work for 10 years,
those 10 years in service won’t matter. That’s why I pity them),” Ana explains. According to Ana, one out of every five AMPC employees is contractual. AMPC maintains a constant number of regular employees, but hires contractual workers depending on demand. For instance, during intersession, AMPC lets off non-regular workers. Once the standard academic term rolls in, they are then contacted by AMPC and rehired if their previous performance was satisfactory. However, even if they are hired again by the AMPC and
continue the onerous cycle of employment-unemployment for years, they are not given salary hikes, separation pays, or retirement benefits, which regular employees enjoy. Ana says that instances like this happen far too often to the non-regular employees. It is common for AMPC to repeatedly renew the terms of contractual workers for years without regularizing them, withholding the benefits they deserve. Though such is the case, Lisa still hopes AMPC eventually regularizes its contractual workers, calling being regular “pangarap ko (my dream).” Holding on to
PHOTOS BY ANALEIGH Y. YAO
the promises the president made last April, Lisa asks, “Hindi po ba meron nang pangako si Duterte ngayon na wala nang endo? Sana naman matuloy na (Didn’t Duterte promise to abolish endo? I hope it pushes through).” While legitimate contractualization is not illegal, Trade and Industry Secretary Ramon Lopez proposes an end to contractualization through HELP WANTED › 3
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Inquiry
Mind your business
BY JAKE B. CUREG AND CORLETO O. VINLUAN III
I
t is not unusual to think that businesses only act upon their own self-interest. After all, it is the duty of business owners to maximize profits. However, when businesses place profit maximization as the sole end and greed takes hold of the situation, problems start to crop up. What is usually left is a set of decisions that looks good on an income statement, but in reality presents us with ethically questionable business practices that may come with tragic repercussions. An example that comes to mind is the Kentex Manufacturing factory fire that happened on May 13, 2015 in Valenzuela City, which killed at least 72 workers. It was found that the building had few exits, barred windows, and no fire safety training. Before the factory workers met their deaths, they were paid below minimum wage and had to endure being constantly exposed to chemicals. This kind of anecdote is a manifestation of the need for business ethics. There is little justification for some of the negative effects of the blind pursuit of profits; these have to be kept in check, as businesses are not operated in a vacuum. They are a powerful aspect in society and business owners’ decisions and actions have real, lasting effects that trickle down to every individual. Giv ing in to reck less business practices in the name of higher revenues and lower costs is one temptation many Ateneans will face in their professional lives. In the pursuit of producing graduates who are persons-for-others, it is important that the Ateneo guide its students to be ethical in their business endeavors while they are still under the supervision of the university.
such as finance, accounting, and marketing are taught to SOM majors, business ethics does not exist as a separate subject. John Gokongwei School of Management Student Enterprise Center (JSEC) Moderator Alyson Yap recounts that the rationale for this is that business ethics should be integrated in class. “Before, there was a separate class on business ethics, pwedeng elective. However, the push of the dean before was ‘let’s not have a separate business ethics [class] because the idea is dapat in every class, integrated siya,’” he said. Ethics as a general topic is covered by the twelve units each of Philosophy and Theology, classes that every student in the Loyola Schools must take. These classes are meant to be accessible to everyone and
Another problem is that although the JSEC owners are already made to follow ethical business standards, there are still some that choose not to comply with the mandatory reg ulat ions, pa r t icula rly with regards to the payment of PhilHealth and Social Security System benefits for the employees. Yap recounts that there were three stalls in the last school year’s JSEC line-up that failed to pay the mandatory benefits and one of them had a pregnant employee who only found out she had no PhilHealth contributions when she attempted to claim her benefits. In cases where the payment of benefits are not fully realized, JSEC revenues generated from rent is used to pay the benefits and the students are given hold orders until the payables have been settled. FREE AND FAIR
“Our ethical role here is to say ‘there is this option, there is this option, and you have this option. I hope and pray you guys make the right decision.’” — JOHN LUIS LAGDAMEO SOMBA PROGRAM DIRECTOR
serve to build a sound base of good moral character and proper ethical judgment in any situation. Yap indicates that business ethics is simply “[The] intersection between Ateneo’s core curriculum and JGSOM’s business curriculum.”
TEACHING BUSINESS ETHICS
Anyone who has checked the official curriculum of John Gokongwei School of Management (SOM) majors in the Ateneo will know that although specialized subjects
program. One of them is failure to comply with ordinances and standard business practices, out of ignorance on the part of the JSEC stall owners. This means that some JSEC stall owners might be unknowingly in violation of the necessary compliances that are needed in operating a business, such as having to register the business with the local government unit and paying the appropriate wages and benefits to employees. These ordinances, Yap pointed out, are exclusively taught in the Legal Management program, with subjects such as Law on Business Organizations, Taxation, and Labor Law. In order to curb ignorance of the law on part of the JSEC stall owners, they are required to comply with all legal and ethical regulations. “I force them. Hindi
CONTROLLING SELF-INTEREST
With JSEC serving as the initial avenue for business for many Ateneans, Yap also raises concerns with how business ethics is practiced within the
nga naman magandang tingnan kapag JSEC tapos okay lang na hindi registered (JSEC won’t have a good reputation if the businesses aren’t registered),” says Yap, “Kailangan magregister, kailangan magbayad ng tax, etc. Kasi kung hindi, madali lang makahanap ng tao and just pay them below minimum wage (Registration is mandatory, paying of taxes is mandatory, etc. If not, it’s easy to just find someone and pay them below minimum wage).”
The School of Management Business Accelerator (SOMBA) program also acknowledges the gap between the ideal and the reality in practicing business ethics. However, rather than forcing compliance, SOMBA teaches its students every option they can take in achieving the necessary ends for their businesses. Ultimately, they are left to decide for themselves when the time comes. According to SOMBA Program Director John Luis Lagdameo, “ideally what you want to do when you engage in a business is [to be] free and fair. [This means] everybody’s on a level playing field, so there’s opportunities and chances.” Lagdameo cites the example of having to register the business, where students are often presented with the option of either going through the usual channels or expediting the process through a fixer or other under-the-table means. SOMBA’s role, he says, is to inform and advise the students. The underlying assumption is that the students have been taught the right thing in their previous subjects, know the right thing, and can apply it when the time comes. In reality, Lagdameo notes, business ethics sometimes falls
into a gray area, a balancing act between good business practice and practicality. Continuing with the example of a student registering a business, he outlines, “It’s going to be unethical for us to tell a student, ‘sige, mag-under the table ka,’ but it also follows it’s not fair for us —it’s unethical for us— to say, ‘go and do the normal way,’ knowing for a fact that it might take him three months and he will not get anything done versus if you go under the table and get it done in a week’s time. Our ethical role here is to say ‘there is this option, there is this option, and you have this option. I hope and pray you guys make the right decision.’” BEYOND PROFITS
At the end of the day, businesses are essentially being restricted into compliance by way of fines and other regulations. It provides a way of controlling the negative effects brought about by businesses’ apparent self-interest, but also brings to light the issue: If such ethical sta nda rds have become necessary, does it mean that business ethics and profit maximization are naturally at odds with each other? More modern capitalist thinking suggests that business ethics and profit maximization are not at odds with each other, but are in fact integral. Chasing profit is still very much a part the business, but rather than pursuing it with methods that marginalize its stakeholders, the business is able to maximize profits by alleviating the conditions of the communities it is involved in. The importance of this fact lies in the mutual point of agreement between businesses and the needs of the people, especially the marginalized. In The Fortune at the Bottom of the Pyramid, C.K. Prahalad and Stuart L. Hart argued t hat t he poorer income brackets are an opportunity for businesses to make money and help the poor at the same time. By providing access to products and services that satisfy the needs of people in the marginalized sectors, businesses are able to profit in an untapped market and
address problems of the poor in the process. In this sense, profits become the measure of whether or not an enterprise is creating value for society through its customers. Doing good business involves doing business with a social mission and profits can serve as an indicator of how much value it has generated to society. As Lagdameo says, “It’s not just about money, it’s also output with environment, sustainability, [and] communities at the bottom line.” He further emphasizes, “The common good is also part and parcel of the whole process.” This brings forth the ethical purpose of doing a business. Beyond making profits, businesses are able to generate sustainable income for its employees and provide the needed products and services to sectors that need them the most. DOING GOOD BUSINESS
Indeed, following ethical regulations— paying taxes, ma nd ator y b enef it s, or investing in better facilities – is often taken for granted because it presents itself as additional expenses in the part of the business owner. It is not surprising then, that even students who are under constant supervision by school authorities try to circumvent these policies in favor of higher profits. In order to temper the efforts to circumvent proper business practice that compromise the social aspect of business, the Ateneo must find a way to further integrate business ethics in its curriculum not only in the form of compliance but also in conceptualizing business models that serve a marginalized market. In this way, the formation of being a person-for-others is integrated in the process of pursuing profits. Of course, it goes without saying that in doing good business, an organization must profit well within the boundaries set by the rules of the game. Whether or not the law and other ordinances are necessary is another matter. The law may be harsh or inconvenient, but it is the law. As persons-for-others, the least we can do is comply.
The GUIDON October 2016
3
Help wanted ‹1
the direct hiring of employees by companies or the regularization of employees in agencies. According to Ana, AMPC plans to absorb its contractuals this December, provided that the said employees pass the necessary evaluations. When asked regarding this, AMPC management declined to comment.
BY JAKE B. CUREG AND CORLETO O. VINLUAN III
A CONFLICT OF INTERESTS
ILLUSTRATION BY CELLINE MERCADO
The making of an Atenean businessman BY JAKE B. CUREG AND CORLETO O. VINLUAN III
When it comes to educating the country’s future business leaders, the Ateneo goes beyond the classroom in trying to provide students with the oppor tunit y to learn about business. The school’s approach revolves around letting the students be hands-on and learn through actual experience. Multiple avenues are provided, each with dif fering levels of intensity and a dif ferent focus, all catering to the wide range of ways business can be practiced.
running a startup business, from c onc eptualization to actual operations and b eyo n d . T h e p r o gr a m requires that students be able to produce actual tangible results. Students in the program are paired with mentors from various fields of business who coach them along the way and provide valuable insights into the business world, with the aim of producing students with real-world experience and a top-notch entrepreneurial mindset right off the bat.
LS 126/127 AND LS 152/153
LS 126 and LS 127 serve as the year-long, project-based thesis classes for BS MGT, BS MGT-H, AB MEc, and BS LM majors. After going through specialized courses – a c c o un t in g , f in a n c e , marketing, operations management, and strategy – students in groups of 4 to 6 are expected to come up with a business model in the first semester and implement it in the second semester. Aside from LS 126 and LS 127, a SOM student can opt to undergo LS 152 and LS 153 instead. In the LS 152/153 track, students are required to develop a social enterprise that benefits a Gawad Kalinga community. Students of LS 152/153 have the opportunity to consult and receive mentorship from executives and employees of the Phinma Group in building their social enterprise. SOMBA
The John Gokongwei School of Management Business Accelerator (SOMBA) is an 18-unit minor program for incoming seniors. SOMBA guides students through the process of establishing and
JSEC
The John Gokongwei School of Management Student Enterprise Center (JSEC) is more than just a place to get good food. It also serves as a way for Ateneans who are aspiring to get their own business in the food industry started, much like a business incubator. It provides students with an avenue to apply what they have learned in class to the real world. While it is open to all Ateneans, not just anyone can get into JSEC. Before being allowed in, students have to undergo a rigorous screening process which includes conceptualization, operations set-up, and the JSEC Challenge, where prospective stalls compete with one another for one of the much-coveted spots in the JSEC Mall.
Unfortunately for employees like Lisa, the abolition of contractualization also has its flaws. Ilac explains, “Imagine I have 100 contractual employees and the law is to regularize all. So out of the 100, I can only afford to regularize five or ten. I’ll remove contractual workers, but I’m not going to regularize everybody because [employers] also have their limits. Why will they pay for every one of the [contractual employees’] benefits if they can’t afford it?” The elimination of contractualization could spell an increase in the unemployment rate and prices of a company’s goods and services. Also, the transition of an employee from contractual to regular is dependent on whether the applicant is competent enough to be hired permanently. Consequently, the enforced regularization of all endo workers could lead to a decrease in the quality of services and products of a firm. Though narratives on the experiences of contractual workers paint a grim picture of the abusive practices cooccurring with contractualization, Ilac admits that some
want to be contractual. These people seek the horizontal mobility offered by short-term jobs that allow them to amass a varied background under multiple firms. “Not everybody [wants to be regularized]. What’s their purpose? They want to move from one food industry to the next so that they could gain so much experience from different brands, so that they could go abroad [or find the best company]. Then they could brag that they have been through so many brands that they already how [the industry] works. They don’t want to be tied up,” Ilac says. But Ilac also acknowledges the detrimental effects that contractual labor has on workers. Being foremost an industrial psychologist, he explains that contractual labor has repercussions on the psyches of workers, causing them to suffer anxiety whenever their contract nears its end. “Normally what happens is that when people hit the [the last month of their contract], they start to feel anxious. Some contingent workers start to apply for different organizations because they don’t want to have lax time, especially if they have a family, if they have a kid to feed,” Ilac points out. Ilac recounts that often, workers who have their contracts terminated also have the development of their work-related skills cut short. He says that while there can be horizontal mobility, there is little vertical growth when it comes to contractual labor. “For example, if I was working in The SM Store, and
I was just selling perfumes, that would be my competency for five months. After five months, it ends. Where will I use again that same skill set? It’s now useless unless I apply again in [a similar firm], say, Robinsons. So there’s no unity, there’s no continuity, and there’s no cohesion of skill sets,” Ilac argues. A TENSION IN TEACHINGS
Given the negat ive consequences of contractual labor on workers, Marc Oliver dG. Pasco of the Philosophy Department sees no virtue in the practice. Though he concedes that there are economic justifications for contractualization, from his philosophical standpoint, one cannot prescribe a monetary value to an individual’s labor. “We value and recognize the dignity of labor,” says Pasco as he explains why the Philosophy Department includes the Junior Engagement Program in its curriculum. “So wala kaming nakikitang dignity doon sa pinagtitripan mo ‘yung manggagawa mo every five months. Sigurado sa buhay nila may utang sila sa 5-6…na may mga anak silang kailangan dumede…na magkakasakit ‘yung mga ‘yon…na magbabayad sila ng renta. Sigurado lahat ‘yon; sabay ang hindi pa sigurado: employment (So we don’t see any dignity in the way firms toy with their employees every five months. Employees have loans, children to feed; these children will get sick, and rent has to be paid. Those are all sure things, but the one thing that’s uncertain is their employment),” he says.
D e s pit e t he A t e ne o’s initiatives to dignif y the laborer, practices within the campus still burden workers like Lisa with the same uncertainty Pasco describes. With erratic wages and employment periods, minimal benefits, and low hopes for career progression, contractual workers in the Ateneo are a bleak reality that contrasts with the institution’s idealistic teachings on labor. Regardless of what politicians say, the entire system of contractual labor is unlikely to be abolished, and a firm that does so risks raising its prices and lowering the quality of its services. Considering the exploitative aspects of this practice, however, one question remains for the Atenean: Can you stomach the “expiration date” on the term of the worker you face? Editor’s note: Names have been changed at the request of the interviewees.
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Inquiry
The GUIDON October 2016
How safe is safe?
The effectiveness of Ateneo’s security in question
BY RENZ G. ESPANOL
M
arch 28, 2016. The Ateneo receives a bomb threat at 8:32 am from an unknown source. Office of Student Services (OSS) Director Cholo Mallillin announces the bomb threat to the community at 9:57 AM. At 10:14 AM, classes and work are called off in the Loyola Schools. The school is eventually fully evacuated at 11:15 am. There have been two bomb threats in the Ateneo in the last three years. To put this number in perspective, in the five years from 2009 to 2013, the school received no reported bomb threats. Because of this alarming rise in bomb threats, questions about the university’s security system have been raised. University security will always be a work in progress. Dangers around the community come and go, but no matter the situation, the Ateneo is expected to protect its students. Because of this, the university does its best to constantly improve the system and the necessary technology. But the question remains: how safe is our campus? THE SECURITY SYSTEM
Formed in 2012, the Campus Safety and Mobility Office (CSMO) is the brainchild of the Ateneo Traffic Group, a committee made to study the traffic problem in the Ateneo. The office is the highest office with regard to on-campus safety and handles the whole Ateneo de Manila campus which includes the Grade School, High School and the Loyola Schools. There are two jobs the CSMO must fulfill. The first job of the office is to protect the community. This can be divided into three parts: On-campus security, medical safety, and disaster management. The second job is mobility. It is tasked with the responsibility of creating schemes to help alleviate the traffic problem on-campus. Coordination with the local government units and the Metro Manila Development Authority is the main aspect of this job.
The main security problem that CSMO sees on-campus is that of petty theft and misplaced items. Many incidents of misplaced items, which include phones and laptops, are reported to the Office of Student Affairs. Another problem, the CSMO notes, is the frequency of bomb threats. Two bomb threats in the span of three years is no laughing matter and the security implications these bomb threats have on the school is immense. Recently, Metro Manila has been threatened with frequent bomb threats. This is a big worry for the CSMO as well, as Katipunan is a heavily metropolitan area. The CSMO has had to overhaul its procedures to speed up the evacuation of the school in case one does happen. In the eyes of the CSMO, these problems stem from a bigger problem: Surveillance. The CSMO is attempting to implement a new and improved security system starting this year. According to Marcelino Mendoza, Director of the CSMO, the project has been pending since 2014 but there has been a conflict with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). “We are just waiting for the final plan of DPWH,” Mendoza said. “They plan to expand Northbound Katipunan [and] they will get [one] lane from us.” The project has two aspects to it: the improvement of the range of the Closed-Circuit Television Cameras (CCTVs) around campus and the use of Radio-frequency identification cards (RFIDs). “ S t a r t i n g t h i s ye a r, pinapalalagyan namin ng CCTV [ang] lahat (Starting this year, we’re placing CCTVs e ver y wher e),” Mendo z a explained. The goal of the project is to improve the visibility around campus to better tackle the problem of petty crime. Perpetrators often avoid guards by blending in with the students and tracking down crime is difficult without hard evidence. The common areas of the campus are the main targets of this program, especially the main roads and the parking areas. This is meant
to increase the security in these areas in which usually just one guard is stationed. The CCTVs also fix the problem of unknown visitors entering the campus by simply accompanying students. Having a wider CCTV range helps security keep track of these visitors and their movements. In coordination with this, RFIDs will be used along with the increased number of CCTV’s. According to Mendoza, visitors will have their own RFIDs upon entry at the gates. This will help the security keep track of the number of visitors. Another benefit of the RFIDs is the improved restriction in accessing campus facilities. These RFIDs will be needed by a students and staff members to scan into certain facilities on campus, therefore creating an easier environment for a fool-proof security system. All of these also point to the CSMO’s bigger goal of reducing the number of guards. Mendoza uses the typical campus in the United States as an example, saying that “one can barely see security guards around campus. But the [new] system is foolproof, because you have CCTV and alarms.” The main point, therefore, is to reduce the human error when it comes to security.
explains world-renowned privacy specialist Bruce Schneier in his 2008 essay entitled, “The Psychology of Security.” Captured in the work is the conclusion that when someone feels safe, this leads them to perceive less risk. Heightened security helps create this feeling of safety and dulls the senses to the environment. The CSMO can do everything in their power to protect the community in the campus. The problem with this, however, is that it is limited in the campus. The school only has a defined space where it has the power to protect the community. This makes it dangerous for the students who are so used to this safety. They may become complacent outside the campus and maintain the belief that they are safe wherever they go. According to the National School Safety and Security Services based in the United States, “the first and best line of defence is a well-trained, highly alert school staff and student body.” The school deals with this by educating its students to be highly-alert. Students learn to have their own security systems in terms of their bodies and belongings. Events like drug talks teach the students to be aware of the world around them.
FOR THE COMMUNITY
Campus security helps the community work and study peacefully. “Students who report feeling unsafe in the classroom experience consistent, negative effects on test scores,” Johanna Lacoe, PhD, notes in a 2013 study. Lacoe’s study highlights the effects that unsafe school environments have on students’ performance and attitude towards school. Kay Bunagan, an Instructor in the Psychology Department, agrees with this sentiment. “A school environment that nurtures psychological and physical safety is conducive to learning and growth of students, teachers, and staff,” Bunagan explained. However, a problem that security has is that it may foster a false sense of security in the student body. “Security is both a feeling and a reality,”
BY THE COMMUNITY
Communication is key for an effective security system. The ones responsible for security must also get the approval and the cooperation of the community it seeks to protect. It is a circular relationship where both sides must provide a service for the other. The annually-distributed Student Handbook is a prime example of this circular relationship. Students are made to sign a contract stating that they will abide by the rules and regulations of the school. The handbook will only work if the school makes sure the handbook is complete and fair. At the same time, the students, by signing the contract, must follow the rules stated inside. Earthquake and fire drills also serve to illustrate this
circular relationship. The school must make sure to disseminate information and educate the students of the protocol to be followed in case a disaster occurs. In turn, students must participate and learn the protocol that the school wishes to implement for these plans to work. In the case of a real disaster, the amount of injuries and fatalities could be determined by the students’ knowledge of the rules. The importance of student involvement is recognized by the school as well. The CSMO advocates a healthy discourse between the administration and the community. According to Mendoza, the CSMO “[always] gets in touch with the student groups” through Mallillin and the OSS. He also mentioned that the involvement of the student body is “very important” for the CSMO to be able to do its job. Bunagan a lso echoes this sentiment. “Having a representative from each sector or stakeholder contributes to a more holistic and comprehensive approach to the process and plan,” she said. WE HOLD THE ANSWER
The answer to the question of safety on-campus is a complicated one. It can be said that the policies are effective, since no real security breach has been reported recently. Although there have been bomb threats, none of
ILLUSTRATION BY CELLINE MERCADO
these have escalated to fatalities and injuries. The problems the campus have consisted of petty crime and the occasional traffic violations. In rare cases there have been kidnappings, but no physical harm was reported. On the other hand, the ease with which outsiders can enter is an argument against the safety of the campus. It can be said that the amount of guards is still low, that the current arrangement of having one guard per building is insufficient. K-9 unit concentration can be increased. The systems involving ID cards can be improved and the access that people have to different facilities is suspect. The problems when it comes to the CCTV range without the new project could be pointed out as well. All of these things could be factors to say whether the campus is safe or not, but in reality it is the community that decides the true safety of the campus. In the end, the students must have a sense of responsibility for their own safety and the safety of the people around them. True safety can only be achieved if the community works together with the administration. The effort must be a united and conscious decision to care for one another. So, are we safe or not?
“Security is both a feeling and a reality.” — BRUCE SCHNEIER WORLD-RENOWNED PRIVACY SPECIALIST IN HIS ESSAY “THE PSYCHOLOGY OF SECURITY” (2008)