VOLUME XXXVII • ISSUE 3 • AUGUST 2013 • 12 PAGES
Letran bids farewell to ‘Fr. Cajie’ Alumnus chairs CBCP
The Colegio’s Collegiate Chaplain Rev. Fr. Vicente ‘Cajie’ Cajilig O.P. succumbing to cardiac arrest at around 5:30 in the afternoon on August 5. Though rushed in University of Santo Tomas Hospital, the Prolife Philippines Spiritual Director would have turned 64 this coming September 26. The news broke out through the Colegio’s official Twitter account @ LetranOfficial: “Let us all pray for the eternal repose of the soul of Fr. Vicente Cajilig, O.P. who joined His Creator this afternoon.” His funeral mass was held at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City (WHEN?!). Members of the Letran community, the Order of Preachers, and his family attended his requiem mass. Rev. Fr. Gerard Timoner III, O.P. in his homily said: “His [Fr. Cajie] ministry as priest was fruitful and holy. He has served for so many years as Executive Secretary of the Office of Education and Student’s Chaplaincy of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences, and in many various ministries in Letran, UST [University of Santo Tomas] and
“I felt saying no,” said Colegio de San Juan de Letran alumnus and Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas D.D., after being elected to head the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) at the Pope Pius XI Catholic Center on July 7. “I felt declining because I did not see myself equal to the task but the senior bishops encouraged me to just accept it, and [I know] they will help me, and the grace of God will be there, so I accepted [the position],” said the late Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin’s former secretary. Villegas also differentiated that heading CBCP is not heading a corporation or a country. He said: “It’s not me setting the agenda. The bishops set their agenda and my duty after the meeting is to speak in behalf of them. Facilitate the discussion, summarize the discussion as needed. I cannot say that I have some missions and plans.”
Letran Bids PAGE 10
Admin tweaks offices Marjorie Malabad
((CHANGE LEAD))
Among the newly established offices is the Letran Center for Culture and Sports (LCCS), which was formed to focus on the development of cultural and sports affairs of the Colegio. However, the Office of the Student Affairs and Cultural Affairs (Osaca) was divided due to the number of Recognized Student Organizations that it facilitates. As a result, the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) and Office of Cultural Affairs (OCA) were formed. Under the LCCS are three offices: the Office of Athletics, supervised by Fr. Victor C. Calvo, O.P.; the Office of Sports Development headed by Fr. Conrado N.
Marra, O.P.; and OCA, headed by Asst. Prof. Edna M. Marco. The Rector’s main purpose of establishing new offices is to strengthen the cultural aspect of Letran and to focus not only in the academic affairs. “I am happy with the decision that the Rector made. This way, they [cultural groups] will have space or home where they can rehearse conveniently. It is more accessible; when I need everybody or I have to give instructions, it’s easy for me to gather them,” Marco said. According to OSA Director Louie Benedict Ignacio, Letran is one of the Dominican campuses under the Dominican Province of the Philippines Incorporated (DPPI). As such, the LCCS was
formed to fulfill DPPI’s mission to bring out the dimensions of arts, science, and technology and an emphasis in culture and sports. The new offices will retain their previous objectives and functions: the Office of Athletics will supervise sporting events and the training of athletes; the Office of Sports Development will focus on the spiritual and personal development of athletes; and the Office of Cultural Affairs aims to strengthen the performing arts through coordination with music and dance trainers.
Living with the Colegio’s noble ideals According to Villegas, Letran had done a lot to his religious formation from being gentle to having good manners. The newly elected president also shared that Letran trained him to never forget a few essentials in his pocket. “I never leave without handkerchief in my pocket and without rosary in the other pocket,” Villegas said adding: “Letran taught me that the handkerchief in your pocket is a sign that you’re a Knight—that you’re a gentle Knight. The other pocket contains a rosary, because Letran taught me that, in addition to being a gentleman, you are a child of the Blessed Virgin. [Letran] and Cardinal Sin also taught me that love of country is but another expression of our love for God.” Alumnus PAGE 3
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NEWS
VOLUME NO. XXXVII • ISSUE 3
CCD keeps tradition of service Mavelle Durian and Marjorie Malabad
As a response to ‘Letran Build Hope Program,’ the Center for Community Development (CCD) mounted a series of community service efforts through Lingap Arriba on July 5. Different academic departments, recognized student organizations (RSOs), non-teaching personnel, and parents’ associations also initiated several activities in connection with the celebration on the said date. Lingap Arriba, formerly known as Agapay Arriba, is in its second year. It aims to deepen the quality participation, volunteerism and involvement of all sectors of the Colegio in all community service activities, extensions. The activity signals the start of all developmental programs of the Colegio. Among the projects of the Lingap Arriba include
programs on health and well-being, opportunities for productivity, practical skills and literacy, environment and ecology, and spirituality.These programs were cored on the Build Hope program of the Colegio. The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and its departments held an exhibit, situated in front of the registrar’s office; the College of Business Administration and Accountancy and its areas visited the partner communities of the Colegio; the College of Engineering put up a forum on volunteerism; the Theology Area contributed on the spiritual aspects; and the College of Education renewed their Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with Barangay 655 while forging a new MOA with Barangay 654. Red Cross–Pasay, on the other
Students relive history through SocSci activity Kim Daniel Rubinos
“Go and really appreciate where you are. Be amazed of the grandeur and beauty of Intramuros.” This was the key message of College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Dean Dr. Rowena Capulong-Reyes to this year’s Intramuros Walk participants. Students enrolled in Rizal101 took part in the event with the “LIKAS Arriba (Likha’t Kasaysayan): The Letran Heritage Awareness Program” on July 9. Accompanied by their professors, the students marched towards Fort Santiago, the historic place where national hero Dr. Jose Rizal was imprisoned before his execution in 1896. It also served as barracks for Spanish artillery soldiers during Spain’s colonization. The historic fort also houses the cell where Rizal spent his last night before being executed, as well as Rizal’s final footsteps leading to the location of his death. The shrine is also the setting where the famous poem of Rizal, “Mi ultimo adios” [My Last Farewell] was found. The dean of the CLAS also pointed out the importance of why students should explore the Walled City: “Ngayon pa
lang, kayo po ay umikot at mag-imagine how it was back then. Perhaps in the next 20 years, wala nang Intramuros.” She cited a Global Heritage Fund report wherein Intramuros and Fort Santiago is in the list of the twelve historic sites around the world “on the verge” of irreparable loss and destruction. The report by the San Francisco-based organization entitled “Saving Our Vanishing Heritage: Safeguarding Endangered Cultural Heritage Sites in the Developing World” was released in October 2010. It identified nearly 200 heritage sites in the world as being at risk, highlighting twelve to be at the danger of irreparable loss because of insufficient management and development pressures. Before proceeding to the tour of the oldest district and the historic core of Manila, all Rizal101 sections were required to perform a presentation of any kind in relation to the national hero. This was held at the Letran grounds with Physical Education area head Asst. Prof. Randy Lero, CLAS faculty Dr. Randy Din, and Asst. Prof. ClariStudents Relive PAGE 10
hand, hosted blood letting. According to Red CrossPasay Chapter Services Representative for blood services Arvin De los Santos, most of the donors were women including students and staff of the Colegio. He also said that there would have been more donors, but due to failures in the physical examination—alcohol intake, low hemoglobin count, low blood pressure, and being underweight—they were reduced. “I feel that it is [like] a national obligation [blood letting] since student palang ako and wala pa naman akong ma-contribute [to our country], so far, sa ganitong paraan nalang,” said Josiah Balgos, a blood donor. On its second year, CCD changed the name of the program, from Agapay Arriba to Lingap Arriba. The
IT WILL ONLY HURT JUST A BIT: Letran students and faculty alike volunteer to WHAT WE’VE DONE: CLAS faculty presents what their resective areas accomplished for the commumity during the opening of Linggap Arriba 2013 | PHOTO BY MASCOT FAMANILLA
administration opted to change the name to identify all the programs that will contribute to attain the objective of the Arriba Spirit. “The move is to change the name of the programs into letter ‘L’ that represents for Letran and followed by
the word Arriba,” said CCD Director Asst. Prof. Manuel Zamora, Jr. He also added: “Everybody made the second year of Lingap Arriba possible. All the departments contributed a lot for this annual festival.”
Letranite comedian lauded in Globe awards Kim Daniel Rubinos
videos, he learned a valuable life lesson: that you cannot make everyone happy. “Since [I started], na-prove ko na you can’t please everyone. Kahit na anong gawin mo, sa tingin mo man mas marami ang makakabuti, meron at meron pa din hindi makakaintindi at hindi magkakagusto sa iyo,” he said. But LC never forgets the true character of his videos, to inspire and to put laughter on his viewer’s faces. That is what he values a lot. “I guess ang pinaka-best na nagawa ng Lloyd Cadena, a Financial Management video ko ay magpasaya, nagpa-inspire at senior under the College of Business Ad- nakatulong sa pagpawi ng lungkot sa bawat ministration and Accountancy, bested oth- manonood. At the same time, same things er Filipino comedians to claim the “Best also happen to me. Every time I finish a Comedy on YouTube” award at the Globe video, I watch it again and I think that I’m a Tatt Awards 2013 held at the Rigodon different person. I feel satisfied,” he shares. Aside from the famous “LC-Learns” seBallroom, The Peninsula Manila on July 5. LC, as he is popularly known, started ries on YouTube, Lloyd’s name (and face) making videos in 2009. The funny and goofy also figures prominently in other social netnature of his videos added with his unique working sites such as Facebook as he also kind of comedy made him a YouTube sensa- makes photos that are arguably of wit and intelligence. tion. “Una sa lahat, i-dedicate nila lahat kay This Globe Tatt Award is his first recognition for his famous YouTube Chan- God, kasi siya naman talaga ang nararapat nel, LloydCafeCadena2. He shared that the unahin. Enjoy-in lang nila, darating ‘yung award will be “special, sentimental, and panahong magkakaroon ng healthy competition. I-enjoy niya lang ‘yun at ‘wag siyang memorable” to him. “First solo award ko ‘to kaya promising,” mape-pressure sa lahat ng gagawin,” he said. he exclaimed as he beat other YouTube personalities like Becky Nights, Jem Da Hunk, Meticulous awards process At the Globe Tatt Awards 2013, LC had Bogart Explorer, and Komikero. As his humorous videos of different top- to go through different stages. First was ics now reach over 60, LC assured everyone the process of public nomination. The oththat he will never stop making videos for his er subsequent processes were the initial fans and followers. “Sana ‘wag kayong mag- screening of nominees, the voting phase and sawang sumabaybay at ‘wag kayo magalala lastly, the judging period. The jurors known as the “Tatt Council” hangga’t may isang taong nanunuod bukod sakin at sa pamilya ko, gagawa pa din ako ng determined 70% of the total score from content quality, social media impact, and relevideo,” he promised. Despite LC’s happy-go-lucky demeanor, vance of content to specific categories. Social most people are unaware that he went through media engagement and influence accounted for 20% while the remaining ten percent difficult times while making his videos. “[May] time na hindi ko kayang gumawa was determined through public voting. The Tatt Council is composed of inding video kasi ako mismo hindi masaya, hindi ako fulfilled. Kaya may mga video akong dra- viduals from different fields, namely: Bimatic ang tema, ‘yun talaga ‘yung feeling ko anca Gonzales, TJ Manotoc, Maria Ressa, Jim Paredes, Bianca Consuji, Abe Olandres, Anthat time. Sad kumbaga,” he explained. In LC’s approximately four years of in- ton Diaz, Dong Ronquillo, Joey Mead King, BJ dependently filming, editing, and making Pascual, and Mikey Bustos.
NEWS
AUGUST 2013 • 12 pages
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Cardinal Tagle says sharing is vital
Caption. Caption. Caption. | Photo By John Oliver de Jesus
Music channel mounts forum Marita Karina Gerardino
Music television channel MYX staged a forum about the importance of social media at the Student Center Auditorium on July 19. Titled “Internet Sensation and the role of Social Media,” the forum was held to open discussion on particular issues with the country’s selected universities and colleges. It also aims the youth to imcrease their awareness among concerns in the country. In Letran, MYX newest segment was attended by Youtube sensations: Jireh Lim known for his song Buko (Buhay Ko), lip synchers James Ronald Obesa (Moymoy) and Rodfil Obeso (Roadfill) of vigorous
Moymoy Palaboy, Jamvhille Sebastian and Michelle Linggayu known simply as JAMICH, the random girl of SM Megamall Zendee Rose Tenerefe, and Tatt Awards 2013 for Best Comedy on Youtube awardee and Letranite Lloyd Cadena. The forum focused not only on the journeys of the celebrities from their origins to claiming stardom, but also on their struggles and the difficulties. The guests reiterated that users of social media shall be responsible on what they post and put in their social networking sites. They all agreed that using social media gives people the power to ma-
nipulate, share, and influence others in any way possible. They also gave advice to students in handling the impact of social media to themselves and making this advantages come to better use. Financial Management senior and incumbent Student Council senator Cadena said: “Masaya, honored and thankful ako na isa ako sa [mga] naimbitahan at sa school pa natin ginawa [ang forum]. Nakakaproud. Mas nakabuti, kasi na-test yung way of thinking ko sa [mga] ganung klaseng forum at na-open na rin yung isip ko about sa ibang ideals and beliefs ng ibang guests doon.”
PNoy’s 4th SONA: Students urge for better education Rosa Maria Baclao
During President Benigno S. Aquino III’s fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA), student leaders marched along Batasang Pambansa calling for improvements in our country’s system of education. With only 2 to 2.5% of the Philippines’ Gross National Product (GNP) allotted for learning, the Philippines is one of the countries in Asia with the lowest education spending in proportion to its total state budget. University of the Philippines - Diliman Student Council Chairperson Alex Castro fights for five to six percent of government budget allocation for public education. “This will benefit not only the students from public schools but also those who are in private institutions because when the cost of public education goes up, the cost of private education rises as well. We want to make education more accessible to everyone. Though different in nature, we are
all technically experiencing the same problems—diminishing quality and commercialization of education— because we are under an education system that affects everyone,” he said. “I really hope [that the President] will finally hear us out in making education more accessible to everyone. But for now, as part of the youth and student sector, what we can do is to continue our pleas for change and to hold on to our hope for better and cheaper education,” added Castro. The nearly two-hour SONA was only able to tackle backlogs in school facilities, savings on book purchases, and classroom rehabilitations amidst the growing number of out-ofschool youths. “Sa edukasyon naman po: ang layunin nating itaas ang kalidad ng kaalamang natututuhan ng kabataan, upang matapos mag-aral ay mapanghawakan nila ang mga oportunidad na bu-
mubukas sa ating lipunan: Natupad. Nabura na po ang minana nating kakulangan sa libro at upuan, at kung magpapatuloy nga po ang pagpapakitang-gilas ni Kalihim Armin Luistro, pati ang kakulangan sa silidaralan ay mabubura na rin. Ang magandang balita pa: may kakayahan na tayong paghandaan ang magiging pangangailangan dahil sa K to 12 program,” the President said receiving 88 applauses in his 4th SONA. Student Rae Mark Zantua said that while he knows education is important to the development of society, he understood why PNoy barely talked about the education sector. “There are just too many problems that the country is facing right now and our government is at a loss on which problem to tackle first,” Zantua said. The country ranks 5th in “Where countries can’t get an education”article in Time Magazine’s June 2013 issue.
Initiated by the Religious Affairs Office, His Eminence Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, D. D., the Archbishop of Manila, graced the SC Auditorium for a spiritual conference on July 24. Cardinal Tagle, who was invited by the late College Department Chaplain Fr. Vicente Cajilig O. P., iterated the story of Jesus and the Samaritan Woman. The Archbishop of Manila also compared that Jesus is a traveler, journeyer, a giver and a beggar on earth. Manila Archbishop also related this parable as how we experience Jesus in our lives and how we use those experiences to share them to other people. “What we have seen with our eyes, what we have touched with our hands, what we have heard regarding the word of life, will in turn has unto. Kaya naman kung hindi mo pa nakikita si Jesus, at hindi mo pa nadidinig at hindi mo pa siya nakakausap. Ano ang iyong ipapasa sa iba?”Cardinal Tagle said. He also added: “Faith has a living and loving relationship with Jesus, whose hearts and that of Jesus has a stronger heart, and leads us to the truth among ourselves. The more we come to Jesus, the more we come to our
Alumnus FROM PAGE 1
RH Law Villegas also mentioned that the controversial Reproductive Health (RH) Law should not be an obstacle to live as a good Catholic. “The presence of that law should encourage us Catholics to be more aggressive in teaching positively what life is, what family is.” According to Villegas, the Catholic Church has always been presented saying No to RH Bill but what the church says is that they are pro-life. “Human life is sacred, the family is sacred, the human person has dignity and life begins at conception, this must be taught positively with or without divorce, with or without gay marriages, with
Students seek to be blessed by the Cardinal who excitedly wears the Letran jacket.| Photo By Sil Frando
true selves, and through the end, we have something to share with our people. ” The widely known cardinal also spoke of the truth, humility and honesty. He also shared his experiences with Cardinal Bergoglio, now known as Pope Francis. Cardinal Tagle was a delegate in the recent Papal Conclave where Pope Francis was hailed as the new head of the Catholic Church. Administrators, faculty members, non-teaching personnels and students attended the event. | MARITA KARINA GERARDINO
or without contraceptive pills, this should be taught always positively,” he clarifies.
Inspired by Bruce Lee The charismatic leader revealed that his priesthood was mainly inspired by the late action star Bruce Lee. He also narrated that Lee’s death negatively affected his scholastic standings. Agustin Salgado, his former high school principal, introduced Villegas to the seminary when he was in his senior year—the time when he was mourning over Lee’s death. “Letran did really help me to understand God’s call. But I was called by God through Bruce Lee,” Villegas jokingly said. The Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop will officially succeed Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma on December 1.
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OPINION
VOLUME NO. XXXVII • ISSUE 3
Editorial Month of Wika Taglish, as defined by urbandictionary.com, is “a category of language that is mixed with Tagalog and English.” Apparently, it may be easier to speak Taglish than pure English or pure Filipino because it’s more convenient. But according to an article published by the Philippine Daily Inquirer, American literacy specialist Laura Benson said it was important not to mix languages. We are taught in the academe that language is important. It is through language that we are able to communicate and exchange ideas and thoughts with other people. It’s essential in society building because without it, people would not be able to understand each other thus preventing growth and development. Further, language plays an essential role in communication. Letranites have to remember that we use the Filipino language not only because it’s the easiest, most comfortable way of expressing ourselves to others, but most importantly, we use it because it’s the foundation of our identity—symbolizing our country’s independence and freedom. For this year’s celebration of Wikang Pambansa, the Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) came up with the theme “Wika Natin ang Daang Matuwid.” The theme focuses on the Filipino language being able to penetrate different sectors of the community. KWF believes that despite differences, we are united because the Filipino language is the voice of our culture, story and identity. We are tagged as one of the most proficient when it comes to speaking in English but what does that say about us? Why are other progressive countries such as Japan and Korea capable of attaining successful economic statuses without mastering perfect English grammar and syntax? As Letranites, we are taught to love and give importance to our country specifically our language. Coming from an institution that is rich with history and tradition, it teaches us the value of preserving heritage.
Ralphe Lawrenze Alarcon Editor-in-Chief Diane Marie Reyes Managing Editor Ina Mae Peñafuerte News Editor
Rosa Maria Baclao Features Editor
Ma. Teresita Distor Design Editor
Rea Antonette Gierran Sports Editor
Jan Joseph Mascot Famanila Photo Editor
Lianne Dominique Hidalgo, Marjorie Malabad, Adrian Masacupan, Kim Daniel Rubinos, Patrick Henry Taguibao, Kevin Louise Valdez, Anton Vincenz Tantoco Staff Ralph Ronald Baniqued, Mavelle Durian, Patricia Flores, Marita Karina Gerardino, Rio Jane Legaspi, Camille Ramos, Marilie Tubalinal, Rachelle Annewor Yumol Contributors Normee Claire Noelle Agatep, Silvestre Frando, Jr., Dwight Labilles, Danielle Nenette Soldevilla, Allen Tarroza Photographers Christelle Ann Cala Cartoonist
Carlo Miguel Alfonso Francia Adviser Published monthly, The LANCE has its editorial staff at 3F Student Center Building, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Intramuros, Manila. For comments suggestions, and contributions, email us at letran.thelance@gmail.com
version 2.0 Ralphe Lawrenze Alarcon @masaralphe eic.thelance@gmail.com
Online Activism What makes us different among others is that we are Letranites—noble, valiant, and gallant. We promote a wide array of concerns and issues through Facebook or Twitter, senseless or not, but the one we do until now is an ecstasy of online activism. This is about the current situation of Camiguin Norte – a paradise in the north. No, this is neither about the scenic views it has nor the prehistoric whales off shore documented and filmed by big media networks in the country. It is about the alleged illegal and irresponsible ongoing Black Sand Mining (BSM) that may dismantle the paradise island of the north, not a number of years from now. Yes, Letranites are concerned about pro-responsible mining, small or large scale. According to multiple reports, the said mining was illegal and allegedly backed up by the Camiguin’s local government unit. According to news reports, Taiwanese nationals seem to continuouslyto wreck the islands’ resources which may kill marine biodiversity near the island. Other detrimental effects of the BSM may even delist Camiguin among the PHL’s 7,107 islands. What Cagayanons are even afraid of is the possible wiping out of the shoreline which may cause flashfloods
brought by heavy typhoons. The disturbance of humpback whales is even feared of as the island’s waters serve as breeding ground of these gentle giants. We deserve the economic benefits from our resources and we don’t deserve such crucial acts like these. Clearly, the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 said that beaches aren’t allowed to be a mining site. Ironically, it is still happening. At once, let us consider ourselves as great sons of this generation. Let this fear trigger us to think and to reason out morally. We are now armed with the knowledge we earn inside the classrooms, sometimes halls due to classroom shortage. The Colegio has produced a number of great leaders, sportsmen, laymen, artists and even a saint which we are most proud of. We are even looked up to by others. Let us live and continue this tradition— the tradition of excellence. People expect a lot from a Letranite not because of the huge amount we pay for tuition during enrolment, but the values instilled under the ideals of Deus, Patria, Letran. I’d want to go the north and say it clear: “Intayo man diyay baybay.” *** The bandwagon is still on.
The Knights are still undefeated since the 89th season of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) kicked off. Murallan fans are still in high hopes that last season’s runner up will still make a way to place in the oldest sporting league in the Philippines. Aside from the victories of the squad that a Letranite brags, I implore the Letran community to support the Knights in their following games in the Arena in San Juan— not in front of your television set or on your Twitter feeds, you are most needed—now. However, a series of illfated events just shocked Philippine basketball and its followers after Letran Knight Franz Dysam was attacked by unidentified assailants. Fortunately, the back-up baller survived and might be on the hardcourt again, if he still wants to play, months from now. According to Athletics Moderator Fr. Vic Calvo O.P., Dysam will need a month to recover. Yes, Dysam just survived a successful operation. People cannot put a good Knight down. Now, the Knights are not just our varsity team competing in the NCAA. We can/must also support the other events in the first and second semesters. Indeed, it is a desperate appeal. Set forth the Arriba Spirit! *** By the way, I am always excited for the Letran Student Council’s community involvement titled “Pakita mo, Pet mo.” When will it be? I don’t know. [Refer to The LANCE June 2013 issue, KnightSpeak by Ann Beatriz Aldaba]
OPINION
AUGUST 2013 • 12 pages
blank verses Diane Marie Reyes @dianetootsie onewjeandia@gmail.com
Patience and All Almost three months have passed since they filled in empty seats in an office beside ours. Three months and at least for me I still don’t know where will they lead us. The Magna Carta of Student Rights that has long been finalized since former president William Barry Codera’s term: what has happened to it? Their promising projects like the lanyards that are supposed to give identity to each program of the Colegio? How about the reinstatement of a washday, and of course who can forget the revision of the heeled shoe policy? These, some of their promising projects that I think may be the reason why they have taken seats, are these still on the loop, alive and kicking? Let me stress this enough especially the inch heeled policy, which Codera brawled for, for almost an entire year and is, passed on to another administration this school year. We have
waited long enough, long enough to the extent that we almost get tired of thinking of what will happen next. As mentioned, these resolutions are given proper consideration by the right authorities by now, I mean since the last time it was there being enjoyed on their tables. Somewhere between the lines, I know I’ve been expecting too much from them that somehow in any other way, these projects are not just words and will take full effect not until I graduate. So what’s next? So far and for so long, are there any more projects that may poke our fellow Letranites’ entire innocence? Subjectivity aside, can we ask for other set of projects that the can be performed while we are all waiting for something good or bad to develop? Up until today, the students, to whom you declared your service for, are hoping for something. And it doesn’t matter if this something is
three minutes or less Ina mae PeÑafuerte @inapenafuerte inapenafuerte@gmail.com
The Hangover Think of the time when you got drunk one night and you get a massive headache the following morning. Or that one time when you get all psyched in an event; you can’t get over it. Or that time when your so-called “the one” found someone else and you can’t move on. The experience is the same with what I’m going to talk about. It had been quite a long time ago when colonizers invaded the country and it took a number of years before we were bestowed our independence. Now, it had been a hundred and fifteen years since the Philippine flag was first unfurled as a sign of our freedom, but I have to ask: are we really free? Who are you? You will probably say that you’re a Filipino—but are you cer-
tain of this Filipino identity you talk about? Are you really a Filipino? Now, don’t get me wrong; I ask myself these questions, too. We claim that we are pure Filipinos, but why do we have these almond eyes, pointy noses, different skin tones and the like? One way or another, we are tainted with foreign blood. Another thing: we have the guts to talk about nationalism, but why do most of us dream of migrating to other nations, while we haven’t even seen the entirety of the Philippine paradise? Why do we even desire to leave our country for a risk to find better living in a foreign land? If you want a good life, you can work hard for it. Leaving is just an excuse—a
huge or trivial. At least we can suspect that you are reached, beyond the office. All I am saying is, maybe we can start the school year without the perfect list of programs you are to materialize. Perhaps we can all begin with just a little community service, or an event, or a seminar that will be relatable to the majority. By chance, we also could persuade first the studentry to write their expectations and desires on your ‘student voice box,’ evaluate them and draw plans. Encourage them to be part of your council. We are waiting, and we will be waiting until the day comes that the students’ votes last semester are not being taken for granted. As long as there is no wrong in whatever duties you do, don’t forget that they supported you all the way. No more in collaboration with, or tied with. Wait patiently, we will. If a day comes that an advice will be addressed to me saying “a leader is best when people barely know he exists” or that they are enjoying the backstage for this time being and that they are still busy planning…I won’t be surprised. To receive an open letter about this for the second time will be superb. At least my views are significant, being read, and hopefully ringing a bell. tactic to find an easy way out. Let’s take a look at our iPods, iPads, iPhones, MP3s, MP4s, laptops, tablets or whatever. How many Filipino songs do you even have on your playlist? One? Two? Maybe some of you may still love to listen to Original Pilipino Music (OPM), but what about the majority? I understand that foreign songs are very catchy, especially the likes of Psy’s that even if we don’t understand the lyrics, we still pay attention because of the beat. But listen to our Filipino artists. Let us give them a chance; listen to them sing and hum their melodies. Nevertheless, in my perspective, I’ve got to say that sometimes I question some of the popular OPM songs, but I still make sure that I still try to hear the other songs, for they do still have meaning. What about Filipino products? Why are we so hungry for chocolates from the United States, noodles from Korea and Japan, phones from the Middle East and bags from Europe? All these products, Filipinos make them, too. So far, I have mentioned
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Knights Quoted Title A recent conflict has created a wide rift between the partnership of the Letran Cheerleading Team (LCT) and Letran Cheering Squad (LCS) that resulted to both groups’ suspension from the NCAA games. We asked six of our basketball heroes about how they feel towards the cheer groups’ absence from the games. “Syempre, malungkot, kasi sa lahat ng games naman, lagi silang nandon para suportahan ‘yung team. Tsaka, sa sarili namin, nakakaboost talaga ng confidence ‘yon. Kaya ayon, nakakalungkot, kasi lalo ngayon na good start ‘yung Knights, saka pa sila nawala.” Kevin Buenaflor, Guard
“Nakakalungkot kasi sila ‘yung isang nagbibigay ng energy sa team, lalo na sa crowd. Kasi kapag naririnig namin ‘yung ingay nila, nakakalakas ng loob talaga.” Raymond Almazan, Center
“Nalungkot ‘yung team, ‘yung Knights. So, nag-adjust din kami dun, kasi parang maraming fans ‘yung Benilde nung last game namin. Nag-adjust kami dun para hindi kami manghina sa game, kahit mas maraming fans ‘yung Benilde kesa samin.” Mark Cruz, Guard
“Medyo tahimik. Tahimik ‘yung Knights. Dahil, tulad nung Benilde end-game, walang nagche-cheer sa amin sa mga crucial parts ng game. Dun sila kailangan e.”
Jonathan Belorio, Forward/Center
“Masasabi ko lang, malungkot, kasi nabawasan ‘yung crowd namin. Isa rin kasi sila sa nagbibigay samin ng lakas kapag nasa court kaming lahat.”
Rey Nambatac, Guard
“Nakakalungkot na walang nagche-cheer sa amin na welcome cheer, halftime cheer... kulang. Every game kasi, nandon sila e.”
Mcjour Luib, Guard
The views and opinions written above do not reflect that of The LANCE’s. compiled by aYA bACLAO AND iNA pEÑAFUERTE
the things we do that don’t really show that we are really Filipinos. Now, I want to talk about ourselves. At present, it is pretty evident that our culture is stained with ways from the West. It is all over the place. The way we talk, the way we move, the way we think, and even our own language. I hear some of the elders actually speaking TagalogSpanish. And the kids these days, some of them even don’t know how to speak Filipino. What is this country that we really live in? I’ve got to admit myself that I am also having difficulties, not in speak-
ing though, but in writing in Filipino. What have gone wrong? Why are we too interested with what other countries have to offer? It is never wrong to be curious but why do keep forgetting who we really are? Truth is I still don’t have a solution to offer to resolve this continuing invasion but I want to open your eyes, like how one person opened mine. Maybe we can never be pure and clear of the foreign blood, but true nationalism, love and loyalty to our motherland can never be beaten. Let us not let these influences linger. Let’s not have a hangover.
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ch, that even here er, has taken over the world. So mu ry corner to satisfy urger joints have popped out of eve p you get into the et’s most famous sandwich. To hel tried out nine of sited four popular burger joints and
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Rose Flores | Photos by nor
ce The Burger Project is a burger pla tom cus that offers both premade and thized burgers. The interiors are you e hav ls wal ful and comic-like; the rals cardboards on them and chalk mu you n the and rd boa a clip all over. The menu is given to you on ger. bur own y ver r you get to make your burger: buns, patYou get to choose what you want for ces, fruits…pretty much ties, veggies, delicatessen, salsas, sau e good between two l tast anything you can imagine that wil ch enjoyed making our own mu tty pre we slices of bread. Since burgers we made three. the selected ingredients. Note: Prices may vary depending on
Tricia Burger For me this was the best among the three burgers. It was made with a beef patty with spaghetti sauce and jalapeños. It tasted like a yummy lasagna dish.
Aya Burger Made with an Angus beef burger patty, it was partnered with mango salsa, mushroom, cheese, and onions. It was like biting into Mexican food, but it’s a burger.
Anton Burger The chicken salad burger, as I call it, is a chicken based burger with lettuce and tomatoes plus mushrooms. You could say that it’s a healthy burger; it would’ve passed as a salad had it not been for the buns.
cheesiest, The Verdict… town that has the tastiest, greasiest, So what’s the best burger place in mouth watering burger ever? best e the best burgers we’ve tasted. The For us it’s Zark’s Burgers; they havfor the greasiest, cheesiest, and meatiest , oozing among their burgers? The winner Burger. Those sticky glazed donutsingrediburger is the mouth watering Luther fect per the are ps stri and juicy bacon cheese, and greasy burger patties bite and you’ll know why it’s our number one a e Tak ger. bur ents for the perfect burger. ry day, we number of customers they serve eve Though Zark’s is a bit small for the rove and make it better. still believe that they will soon imp
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FEATURES
VOLUME NO. XXXVII • ISSUE 3
Page
Turners Lianne Hidalgo and Kathrene Pescasio
STAR GIRL Jerry Spinelli Young Adult, Romance, Humor Susan “Stargirl” Caraway is a very unusual girl. Unique. Different. She is beyond words. She had just transferred to Mica High from a whole life of homeschooling. She wears floor-length skirts, has a pet rat that she brings to school, and cries at funerals of people she doesn’t even know. Stargirl didn’t just catch everyone’s curiosity; she also caught Leo Borlock’s heart. For him, she changed. Stargirl became Susan; a normal girl without a rat and the floor-length skirts. Page-turning points: 5/5
EVERY DAY David Levithan Mystery, Drama, Romance What does every day mean to us? A routine? A continuation of yesterday? A step to the future? What if one day, you wake up in a different body? What will you do? “A” is different, uncategorized by gender and floats through the lives of numerous teenagers, the wandering soul would give up everything. “A” wakes up every morning in a different body and knows that it’s impossible to stay that way, but when a girl made a day so special, “A” will do everything to take the risk and find a love full of acceptance and trust.
The writer of numerous good books like Realm of Possibilities, Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist, and Boy meets Boy, David Levithan tells us the story of how two teenagers could love one another even if one is destined to change every day. Page-turning points: 5/5
SHE’S DATING THE GANGSTER Bianca Bernardino Romance He is the last thing she ever dreamed of, yet he is becoming the love of her life. A resident campus heartthrob was victimized by the new girl in school by playing an innocent prank. Neither did they know that they are going to be schoolmates and to make matters worseseatmates. What will happen to Athena in a school where Kenji is the “king” and everything is about him? A book that is totally Pinoy, this fan-fiction-turned-online-sensation/book, is one proof that Filipinos can come up with stories at par with our Asian neighbors’ famous romantic tales.
Page-turning points: 4/5
13 REASONS WHY Jay Asher Drama A rumor based on a kiss is just the beginning. When a student named Hannah Baker died, she made sure 13 cassette tapes would reach thirteen people who had gave her the reason to commit something that’ll end her life. The thirteen tapes is a monologue of the Hanna’s point of view, what happened and what went wrong. Clay Jensen is one of them and this is the story that would change about how he thinks of everyone.
Jay Asher’s debut novel, gives us a glimpse of one of society’s biggest problem that affects everyone in an addiction to perfection. The story gives us an idea that everything we do and say to people has an effect and that sometimes we need to be sensitive enough to know that we have crossed our limits. Page-turning points: 4/5
Pop Culture Filipinos The Philippine media tends to idolize and idealize foreign culture. Maybe it’s for the entertainment value, maybe it’s due to some deepseeded aversion for ours. Whatever it is, we Filipinos tend to inject what is foreign to what is ours and often we do this in a highly cliché and incredibly stereotypical manner. But did you know this goes both ways? Yes, like how we seem lost in our attempt to add foreign culture to our media, so too does foreign media in their attempt in injecting our culture to their own. Some of these come off as racist (remember that Desperate Housewives fiasco?) but some of them come off as genuinely heartwarming in their endeavor to add something ‘Filipino’ to something different.
Did you know the Philippines has its own superhero group in the Marvel Universe? Quick question: “How do you make a Filipino style super hero team?” If you answered with: “Slightly racist stereotypes.” Then I guess you’re either a Facebook troll or you work for Marvel, because that is what they totally did. Introducing the Triumph Division, a Filipino superhero group composed of: Red Feather (‘Cause we all love cockfighting, right?), St. George (Because the patron saint of England is so Filipino), Mighty Mother (Because... Filipinos love their mothers?), Anitun (Huzzah! an actual Filipino Mythological God), Fighter One (Yay, a super boxer!), The Wishing Man (I do not even know...), and The Great Mongoose (Hint: Mongooses aren’t in-
digenous in the Philippines.) Not that the other side of the pond is faring any better. Power Girl, a staple heroine in the DC Universe is part of the worldwide superhero conglomerate that is the Justice League. Power Girl has visited every part of the world in her job as a super hero. And in one such issue while visiting the Philippines, she gave this gem of a line: “Um… Huwag alala maliit na tao. Ako nandito.” Very reassuring. Did you know Japan made a film about Lorenzo Ruiz? I’d like to believe everyone should already be familiar with San Lorenzo Ruiz. I mean, how many Filipino saints do we even have? Lorenzo is an ideal for most Christian Filipinos, so you’d think that by the turn of the century we would have regaled Mr. Ruiz with movies and the like telling his blessed tale but, no. Japan beat us to it. Entitled: Lorenzo Ruiz no shōgai (The Failure of Lorenzo Ruiz) is not a movie detailing the Failure of Lorenzo Ruiz (Japanese is a fickle language) but the obstacles he faced that lead to his death. You’d think a country not known for its tolerance to Christianity would hate Lorenzo Ruiz but no, they actually love the guy enough to give him his first biopic. There are probably more instances of Filipinos and the Philippines being portrayed in foreign media and it’s likely that it would be a trend that would become more and more prevalent, with Filipino culture on the rise, and homegrown artists slowly gaining worldwide recognition; although if this is a good thing, these are still up for debate.
FEATURES
AUGUST 2013 • 12 pages
Why you need to
rhapsody
read more
Rosa Maria Baclao
Rio Legaspi
M
ake an impression.
You can use grand terms to make your essays and dialogues naot just greater in length, but also a lot heavier in intellectual appeal. Instead of simply writing “I can’t believe you” you can write “What you’re saying is really incredulous.” Your vocabulary will eventually impress other people (say, your crush or your boss) however, do not forget that in writing, it is more important to express than to impress.
S
ky is the limit.
JRR Tolkien, JK Rowling, and George Martin. What do they have in common, aside from writing the most jaw-dropping books of our century? They all admitted to having been heavy readers. Their books are so creative that they are able to teleport us to worlds of magic, dragons, and kingdoms. Through reading, we learn to be creative and step out of our restrictions in places and time. Reading offers much more than what reality offers us to experience. Sky is the limit, indeed.
S
harpen your mind.
Make time to regularly grab a newspaper, a good book, or any reading material to exercise your mind. According to scientific studies, those who read more perform better in academics, possess higher intelligence, and have increased general knowledge than those who don’t.
R
e entertained.
A book doesn’t take up much space so you can take it anywhere and you’ll never be lonely or bored if you have one book in your bag. You can read at the catwalk while waiting for a friend, during a flight delay at an airport or whenever there are no programs worth watching on TV.
R
eading is attractive.
According to a foreign survey, books are crucial in influencing our opinions of strangers. Half of 200 adults asked admitted that they would look again or smile at someone on the basis of what they were reading. A third of those surveyed said that they “would consider flirting with someone based on their choice of literature.” Now, why should you read more? Reading makes you awesome.
“So Jacob worked seven years for Rachel. But his love for her was so strong that it seemed to him but a few days.” - Genesis 29:20 Love is always about sacrifices, truthfulness, and faithfulness. They said that for you to have the person you want, you need to take risks and make sacrifices because that will define how much you love that person. In today’s time, many of us would always say, that he/she can sacrifice everything for the person whom they love. But as long as words are not put into actions, you’ll never know how long can people live with their promises. “Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant.” - Corinthians 13:4–7
Love waits, as they’ve said. Meaning, we should not rest until we have it. Although, there are many easy ways to find a perfect partner, but, it’s not the real essence. We do not just pick anybody out there who is willing to be our partner. It is through our efforts and
hardships that we may find our true love. Humility should be relevant as the time comes that we have it. We are not to love to seek praises or pleasure from someone. We are to love full of kindness and humility as per charity comes the way. Just like in the old times, where the couples were too contemporary, that they respect each other for their relationship to last. I wonder if we could make that happen again. So we may understand how love is important to every one of us.
“I am my beloved’s and my beloved is mine.” – Song of Solomon 6:3 God created us to be with someone whom we’re meant to be with. To whom we can blissfully assert our belongingness. Unfortunately, when we get hurt, we simply blame God for it. We seem to forget about God’s plan for us when things don’t work out the way we want them to be. But always remember that love is not about finding a perfect person. It’s about finding a person who belongs to us. God’s best.
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@AyaBaclao aya.baclao@yahoo.com
To the bad apples This is for those who have been called “Walang puturo,” “Walang kwenta,” and “Black sheep.” Those who feel lost in mediocrity, self-doubt, hopelessness, and even delinquency. I was part of the bottom 25% of my batch, back in high school—the kind of student whose best grades barely made it to the passing mark, and was a regular sight at the discipline officer’s desk. When I qualified in University of Santo Tomas in 2007, I was coerced into taking up a program that was way out of my interests and capabilities. Faced with academic frustrations and personal troubles, I eventually lost my track. Spinning out of control into delinquency, I stopped attending my classes and started doing everybody’s share of vices and sloth. When my parents found out I have been “debarred” (a Thomasian’s term for “kicked-out”), I was sent to the province for what was practically a house arrest. Seeing my friends go on with their lives while I was stuck inside the four walls of our house made me sink into a deep sea of depression. I felt so hopeless and incompetent that I drowned myself in selfpity and hate. There was not a day when I didn’t want to end my life. Not until I read a quote from Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables: “It is nothing to die; It is frightful not to live.” I sprang up from my bed like an electrocuted cat. I realized that the
Students Relive FROM PAGE 1
ta Rivera serving as jurors. Paula Patrice Tamayo, a Communication Arts student and Letran Filipiniana Dance Crew member said: “Mas na-instill and mas naintindihan ko yung history ng Pilipinas, mas effective kasi talaga kapag nae-experience natin para maintindihan, kaysa yung discussion lang sa room. Na-revive ‘yung history
quote wasn’t just referring to physical death; it also screamed: “LIFE’S TOO SHORT TO GIVE UP ON.“ I picked myself up and decided to enroll in Letran. I remember Sir Junel Labor quoting Aristotle during our public speaking class: “’Life is geared towards excellence.’ If you are not doing your best, you’re simply not living your life to the fullest.” With or without reincarnation, the lifetime we are living in right now is too short to waste. Think about how short life is then try to evaluate: do you want to die scraping for a living or do you want to be remembered a boss? Do you want to be a follower your whole life, or do you want to be a leader? Would you rather be happily careless now (because ‘YOLO’), or would you rather be admired later? Life is short so NEVER settle for less. You only have this lifetime so make the most out of it—prove your skeptics wrong and work your way to the top. Don’t let your life revolve around your boyfriend or girlfriend, around DOTA, your car, or your friends because someday, you will only have yourself to count on and blame. Like the Buddha once said: “What you think, you become.” Stop thinking of yourself as a bad apple and start telling yourself how great you can actually be. Get out there and start painting the life you want to live: give love, be loved, be happy, and earn as much as you want. You only live once. hindi ‘yung makokuntento na tayo sa parang storytelling lang ng prof.” Fourth year Hotel and Restaurant Management major Monique Joy Pablo stated: “The experience I had was extraordinary. ‘Yung walkathon, ok naman, feeling ko balik 1960s ako kahit sobrang init nagenjoy ako.” Intramuros Walk 2013 was organized by the Social Science Area, helmed by Asst. Prof. Jayson Peñaflor.
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NEWS
VOLUME NO. XXXVII • ISSUE 3
KnightSpot:
A Paddler’s Journey
Overflowing with determination and conviction, John Erick Gonzales has the heart and spirit of a true champion. His utmost desire to bag the championship this season is deeply evident in his words and actions. Still reeling from their loss in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) to rival San Beda College, the Palawan-bred athlete speaks about the team’s desire to establish a time-managed system in their game-plan. Gonzales has been playing the sport since he was in 3rd grade, with his brother, who also plays the same sport with the Rectobased San Sebastian Stags. Letran discovered his potential when they conducted a sports clinic in Palawan back in 2009. According to Gonzales, the entire table tennis team, both men’s and the women’s division, are working extra hard to nick the title from the San Beda Red Paddlers. The Mendiola-based paddlers have been reigning in the event for four consecutive NCAA seasons. “Everyone in the team works hard and everyone also works to achieve
a common goal, and it is to make up for the loss of many veterans in our team. Therefore, we fill-in gaps through double timing our efforts in training,” Gonzales said in Filipino. The team even utilizes their ‘rest days’ as trainings. Gonzales said that the team does not go out often and consider their trainings as a form of bonding with the whole team. As much as he wanted to be hailed this season’s champion, Gonzales remains humble. Of course, just like what a genuine Letran Knight would always do, Gonzales never forgets to ask guidance from God first above anything else. “I’d hold my racket tight, and of course, ask guidance from Him and pray. That’s what I always do before a game,” Gonzales shared. “We cannot really predict how this season will be for us. But one thing is for sure; we will never give up and we will train harder. We will all work together for it,” said the young paddler. “You should never underestimate Letran. We are not and will never be a feeble team.” | CAMILLE RAMOS, PATRICK TAGUIBAO
Letran Bids FROM PAGE 1
the Dominican Province of the Philippines.” Fr. Cajie also served as superior in Sri Lanka, Executive Secretary of the Office of Education and Students Chaplaincy of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences and confessor of the Student Brothers, professor at the Faculty of Theology and formator at the Central Seminary. “One thing I will never forget about him [Fr. Cajie] is when I had a problem and he told me, ‘Relax ka lang. ‘Wag mo masyadong isipin.’ Then, we celebrated [a] mass. Kaming dalawa lang,” Campus Minister and Asst. Prof. Rodio Batayen said as he remembered his colleague. “For the Colegio, if you are going to look at it in a good way, he can be an
Knights Shine
FROM PAGE 12
to go and the game tied at 59, Cruz attempted a jumper but failed to convert. Almazan grabbed the offensive board and made the put-back with 25 ticks remaining. Benilde went to Luis Sinco in the last seconds wherein he made a three point attempt contested by Cruz, who got called for a foul. However, Sinco only converted one out of the three charities, keeping his team winless. Racal led the Knights with 18 points while Cruz contributed 13. Taft-based baller Mark Romero paced the Blazers with 18 in yet another sorry loss. In the past four games, they have lost by only as much as two points.
Dysam FROM PAGE 12 A heraldic return The third year Operation Management student is back after taking a break from what he calls his passion. According to Dysam, he left college hoops because he gave focus to his studies. “I returned because I know this will be my last playing year in college. Besides that, the team is also in need of a guard in its lineup,” said the Leyte native. Letran is in need of scorers to fill in the huge spot left by former skipper Kevin Louie Alas who opted to play for the national team and skipped his final year in the National Collegiate Athletic Association. “Of course, playing basketball remains to be my
inspiration—a good example—to the other priests, to the ones close to him, to the students. However, it is sad to think that he may still had plans he wanted to implement in the Colegio, but he did not have the chance to do it anymore,” Batayen added. Lance Paulo Lim, a junior Communication student, said: “Father Cajie is a very intelligent person; a happy person as well. For me, he is an example of a true Dominican. He lived a meaningful life by bringing Jesus to the world through teaching and preaching. It feels like we’re always having a recollection each time we attended his class.” “He is, to me, a great loss to the world than the Colegio alone. His presence as Executive Secretary to the Asian Bishops’ and other inter-religious dialogues means to be a testimony that he is a servant of God,”
Lim added. “Wherever and whenever we saw him, he was always smiling; it seemed to me that he appreciated life so well, that he was always thankful and contented on what he had and what happened in his everyday life. He always taught us to draw to God in every situation be it difficult or overwhelming because God allowed it for a great purpose,” Dawn Jillian Mojica, also a Communication student, said. “We lost a great teacher, father and mentor who have always been around, praying for his students and the Colegio. But the great part of losing Fr. Cajie is, knowing he is now in God’s hands, peaceful and eternally happy,” she added. Students and employees paid their final respects as Fr. Cajie’s wake was held in the Letran Chapel from August 6 to 9.
Letran 61 Lyceum 53 The Knights outplayed their Intramuros neighbors, the Lyceum of the University Pirates, to improve their record to 5–0. Using an 18–8 third quarter, the Season 88 finalists detached themselves from the Pirates who had been keeping the game close in the first half. “Nung third quarter, nag-click lang yung offense namin,” said Almazan, who led the Knights with another impressive doubledouble of 19 points and 17 rebounds. He finished with three blocks, despite playing with flu. “Maraming nagstep-up talaga, hindi lang ako.” Prior to the game, the lanky center had been averaging 12.8 points, 15.5 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per outing.
Lyceum’s defense was able to force Letran to commit 26 turnovers, which they converted to 23 points. However, the Pirates failed to capitalize from the foul line, only making eight out of their 26 attempts. “We were lucky to get the win kasi turnovers namin [are] too high,” said Coach Caloy Garcia. “We were lucky they didn’t make their free throws and [we] started the third quarter well. Ang kagandahan sa mga players na ‘to, individually kaya nilang bumantay. Defensively, makikita mo puso nila on how they work hard on defense,” he added. A notable Knight who played good defense was Rey Nambatac who had five steals to complement his 14 points and six boards.
passion…whether playing for our Alma Mater, Letran, or other communities,” Dysam said, adding: “I am open to play professionally, if given a chance. I think, that is what every player aspires
in his career, to play for professional leagues. But of course, I have to finish my studies, since you can never be sure of what will happen.”
SPORTS
AUGUST 2013 • 12 pages
MISS NCAA 2013: Letran beauty caps 2nd Runner-up finish Adrian Masacupan
BS Tourism Sophomore Patricia Ann Manaloto of Colegio de San Juan de Letran snatched a 2nd runner up finish at the Miss National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) 2013 pageant held at De La Salle–College of Saint Benilde on July 26. The reigning Miss Letran said that being able to represent the Colegio at this event was such a big honor. “It made me proud because out of the thousands of beautiful, brainy and tall women in the campus, I was chosen. It was really an honor that’s why I did my very best [that I can] for Deus, Patria and Letran,” she said. Manaloto, who took home the Miss Talent Award, turned to her coach for advice. Except for the actual practices and rehearsals, she read books and watched news that could potentially help her. She also used her prior experiences in beauty pageants like ‘Knights Unveiled’ to better prepare herself for the beauty tilt. “I would like to thank the whole Letran Community for supporting me all the way. To Coach Mike, who’s always been there, Father Vic [Calvo O.P.], my classmates, friends, family and of course God,” the Capampangan beauty said.
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wordplay rea antonette gierran @reagierran antonette_gierran@yahoo.com
Challenge accepted!
Photo from ncaa.org.ph
Despite not winning the title she said: “I want myself to be an inspiration to everyone especially to young people. You must finish everything with a strong mind, body and soul.” Hazel Ortiz of Emilio Aguinaldo College placed 1st runner up while Aira Inoue of Lyceum of the Philippines University was crowned Miss NCAA 2013.
Ex-Letran trackster dons PHL colors Adrian Masacupan
Financial Management senior Archand Christian Bagsit represented the Philippines in the 2013 Asian Athletics Championship in Balewadi, Pune, India on July 3 to 7. “Graduating sana ako ngayon,” said Bagsit adding: “[Pero ngayon], national team [muna] ako. Malaki ang natulong sa akin ng Letran, siya [Letran] ang dahilan kung nasaan ako ngayon.” Bagsit, a two-time Southeast Asian (SEA) Games silver medalist, finished fifth in the first heat of the Men’s 400-meter event clocking in with 47.87 seconds. He managed to qualify through to the semifinals with this record. No other Philippine representative qualified for the semifinals in the first heat.
In the semifinals, the national sprinter registered 47.93 seconds. This put him in last spot in the first heat of the semis. “Masaya [ang experience] kasi malalakas ang mga kalaban namin [dahil] naglalaro sila sa Olympics at Asian Games,” he said. The former Letran trackster also competed in the Men’s 4x400-meter relay event. He ran alongside Julius Nierras Jr., Edgardo Alejan Jr., and Junrey Bano. The team grabbed the fifth spot in the event with 3:10.86. The ex-National Collegiate Athletic Association standout is also in contention for the Men’s 400-meter event in the forthcoming SEA games which only allows two entries in the said event. There are three run-
The Letran taekwondo team will show their combat skills at the annual National Tae Kwon Do Championship at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium on July 20-21. Grade school to tertiary level teams from all over the country will attend the competition. Kriselle Paladin, women’s division and team captain said that the team is still full of dedication de-
Marilie Tubalinal spite a 6th place finish in the 88th season of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). “Yung team, tumatakbo pa sa Quirino [Grandstand], kapag Tuesday hard sparring,” adding: “Friday [is for] techniques,” the 19-year old Communication senior said. Letran’s gold medalist Sanya Lilla Amarillo and former men’s division captain DJ Pacuan already graduat-
ners vying for the elusive slot. The three men that have hit the 47.97-second time requirement for the SEA Games are Alejan (47.40), Nierras (47.840) and Bagsit (47.87). All of these times were recorded in the recently concluded Philippine National Games. “[Gusto ko] i-improve yung time [ng team] sa 4x400-meter pati narin sa aking sarili, yung takbo ko.” Bagsit is best remembered as he has previously won two silver medals at the 26th SEA Games Athletic Competition in Palembang, Indonesia last year. The participation of all of the Philippine representatives in the 2013 Asian Athletics Championship is a preparation for the upcoming SEA Games.
Jins vie for national title
ed but the loss of these two key players were never seen as a drawback.
High hopes for an NCAA title With new members recruited for the lineup, they will also be preparing for yet another battle against other schools for NCAA title. “Maraming hindi nakapaglaro last year dahil sa residency,” said Paladin. “Maraming nag-improve last
For the first two issues of The LANCE, I have been coming up with issues undertaking national concerns because I believe that personal issues are not something worth conversing over a campus paper. I was never in the picture in any of my writeups, a way that I was not directly affected by the issue. If you have read my columns, you’ll know what I mean. But this time, I want to give myself this chance to raise a subject regarding the importance of the student publication in a campus. I was advised that as early as May I should already be giving a letter to the Athletics Department asking for Press Media IDs for writers under my section, which I did very willingly. As the designated Sports Editor, I have a lot to prove not only to myself but to those people who entrusted me this editorial post. When the opening of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) neared, I started dropping by the Athletics Department every chance I get, almost everyday. I wanted to make sure that I’d be the one to bring the good news once the IDs are released. The oldest sporting league in the country, the NCAA, is a big event for the Sports section because a large chunk of the content of our section lies in it. And then the bad news came. I was told that there will be no Media IDs that will be issued for The LANCE at the opening of the 89th season of the NCAA. Imagine my disappointment! People have to understand how important access is for student-writers like us. It makes our coverage a lot comfortable, easier, more
season, hindi mo sila [NCAA teams] pwedeng maliitin.” “In the past few years, three teams have been competing relentlessly for the title, San Beda, Letran and St. Benilde, but we should never be complacent, be-
accurate, not to mention practical because we won’t have to pay tickets just to write a sports story. But then again, who says being a student-writer would be all comfortable, easy, accurate and practical? Being denied is something we did not expect as student-writers because our ‘connections’ have yet to be built and established as we mature and grow. But not matter how burdensome it is, it is never a reason not to cover and do your job as a journalist. Truly, it takes motivation and passion for one to overcome the hurdles of being a student-writer. According to Ivah Gallagher, Editor of The Quill in his article entitled The Importance of Student Media and Journalism retrieved in the e-magazine of Brandon University in Canada, student media, most often in the form of a newspaper is a quintessential part of the campus. Aside from imparting news and entertaining features to sports updates, student media also gives opportunities for students to voice out their ideas therefore encouraging exchange of thoughts. The job of a student writer is to get all available information and pore over the drudging ones. They have to make sure they throw together a story that is interesting and easily understood. Making a story new is just another hurdle to overcome, the challenge really is to be able to cover a story regardless if you’re given access or not. As two-time Academy Award-winning American actress of film, television and theater Ruth Elizabeth “Bette” Davis puts it: “The key to life is accepting challenges. Once someone stops doing this, he’s dead.”
cause everyone is improving. We cannot simply relax,” she added. Paladin also said that the team is also confident in taking home a championship under the supervision of Lowell Remegio.
SPORTS
VOLUME XXXVII • ISSUE 3 • AUGUST 2013 • 12 PAGES
Caption. Caption.| Photo By Allen Tarroza and Sil Frando
NCAA CAGING:
Knights shine with immaculate slate Anton Tantoco
Letran ballers prove to be a strong contender for the 89th season of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) as they remain unbeaten, beating College of Saint Benilde (CSB), 61-60. Letran currently sits at the top spot with an unblemished record followed by last year’s champion, San Beda Red Lions. Letran 79 Emilio Aguinaldo College 74 In an endgame struggle, the Knights managed to hold off the Emilio Aguinaldo College (EAC) Generals, 79–74, to extend their winning start in the NCAA Season 89 held at the Arena in San Juan on June 29. Mark Cruz led the Knights with 18 points, including 12 in the first half
to put them up by seven, 44–37. He and rookie Rey Nambatac combined for 10 points, punctuated by one triple each, to open up a 30-point third period. EAC’S Remy Morada and Jack Arquero conspired for a comeback and even brought the Generals to within two, 69–71, with a minute left in the game. However, lanky Raymund Almazan and Nambatac played steady in the final seconds as Cruz nursed cramps in the final quarter. They scored Letran’s last eight points with Almazan ending it with an emphatic dunk to improve Letran’s record to 2–0. Almazan had 15 points to go along with his 17 rebounds and three blocks. Nambatac poured in 13. Ford Ruaya was a reliable
offensive option once again as he contributed 11 markers. Kevin Racal still wasn’t in great shape but did his best to help the team out with his five points, seven rebounds, four assists, two steals, and two blocks. Letran 69 Jose Rizal University 66 (OT) The Letran Knights stretched their win streak to three as they banked on free throws to outlast the Jose Rizal University (JRU) Heavy Bombers in overtime, 69–66, on July 6. Playing physically against the rookie-laden JRU squad, Letran was able to force them to give up fouls, resulting in the graduation of Michael Mabulac, Philip Paniamogan, and Nick Abanto less than two minutes left in the extra period.
This led the Knights to cough up points from the charity stripe and complete a comeback from as much as ten points down in the third period, 24–34. Kevin Buenaflor started a 10–4 run in the fourth quarter with a triple, allowing the Knights to come withing two, 50–52. He finished with seven points. Cruz, who finished with just seven markers—a far cry from his 15-point average in the past two games, dished the leather to a cutting Kevin Racal, who made a layup and tied the game at 60. Letran fished the fifth foul of Jordan de le Paz with 17 ticks left in the fourth, giving Cruz a chance to win the game. His shot hit the rim, forcing overtime. Almazan had another double-double (12 points
posibleng motibo tinitignan natin, love triangle, yung history nung girl, lahat yun nasa imbestigasyon,” said San Juan Police Chief Col. Bernard Tamboan. As of this writing, Dysam is in stable condition and is already transferred to an undisclosed hospital for bullet extraction surgery. From the official statement made by Letran, the college has cleared that the backup point guard is already reaching recovery. In its official statement,
Netizens, rivals shocked The Letran community showed support and asked for prayers for their fellow Letranite. Former Letran cager Mark Andaya and Dysam’s
Dysam injured, partner killed in San Juan shooting Rea Gierran
The whole Letran community was shocked after Letran point guard Franz Dysam and his partner Joan Sordan were attacked roughly 45-minutes after the Letran Knights’ 61-53 victory against the Lyceum of the Philippines University Pirates. The couple was riding in their Nissan Sentra (ZLA 176) along N. Domingo Street and Araneta Avenue in San Juan City when a ‘riding in tandem’ fired multiple
shots on Dysam’s car using a .45 caliber gun. The couple was rushed to the San Juan Medical Center after sustaining multiple gunshots. According to multiple reports, Dysam shielded Sordan. Unfortunately, Sordan was hit once in the stomach and was declared dead on arrival at the hospital. Their three-month-old child and two nephews, who were also in the car during the attack were unharmed. “Kukumpletuhin muna natin ang detalye, lahat ng
Letran said: “Franz is conscious and is already aware of the passing of his girlfriend, Joanne. Like a gallant knight, Franz protected his girlfriend during the incident…The Letran community is behind Franz in his rally. All assistance, including moral and spiritual, is given him. He is consistently being prayed for especially by the Letran priests.”
and 13 rebounds) while Racal shrugged off injury woes and had his best performance yet with 11 points and 10 boards. Jamil Gabawan also contributed 11. Nambatac, who was fouled out in the final minutes of the fourth quarter, tallied four points, five rebounds, two feeds, and three steals. Paolo Pontejos was the lone Heavy Bomber who scored in double digits with 20 points in only 19 minutes. Letran 61 CSB 60 Determined to keep their winning streak alive, the Knights were aided by sheer luck as they handed the Blazers their fourth loss, 61–60. With less than a minute Knights Shine PAGE 10
teammate Mc Jour Luib expressed words of support through their Twitter accounts. Even on-court rivals were affected by the news. San Beda center Ola Adeogun was seen crying after their win against Jose Rizal University Heavy Bombers upon learning the news of the attack on the Letran guard. San Beda head tactician Coach Boyet Fermandez said: “We promise to pray for Dysam. We hope his family will be okay. Even though we won this game, we’re not happy. It’s sad. We’ll just continue praying for him.”