January Issue 7 - A.Y. 2013-2014

Paskong Arriba leaves students unsatisfied VOLUME XXXVII • ISSUE 7 • JANUARY 2014 • 12 PAGES

INA MAE PENAFUERTE The year-ender and traditional Christ- ments and a lot of technical problems.” He mas celebration activity of the Colegio, also added the food served and the ‘enterPaskong Arriba (PA), had left the Letran tainment’ in his complaint list.

Community, most especially the students, Moreover, there are complaints regarddisappointed. ing the lockdown during the day, not letting The Letran Community celebrated the students out once they got in until the 2013’s Paskong Arriba on December 18 with end of the celebration of the mass. various but common activities and with the Nonetheless, some Letranites had their unusual presence of AXN University, an activ- moments in the annual celebration. Furity organized by the network, touring from thermore, homegrown band Turband also one school to another, providing students rocked the Colegio as they opened for main extraordinary experiences and challenging band Parokya ni Edgar. activities.

“I felt honored [to play my music in PA] Yet, even with all the activities like Cos- kasi minsan lang mangyayari yun sa college play, Hiphop Dance Competition, the AXN life namin,” said Hotspot keyboardist Chrisevent and others, students were still dis- topher Gaurano. He also added: “I was expleased with all the happenings the Colegio cited because I want our music to be heard. provided.

We had our break and I think we did well.

One of the main reasons of the dissatis- Okay naman din kasi medyo sing-along sila faction of the students is the loss of the tradi- [Letran crowd] nun.” tional fireworks display, which was removed Overall, despite the dissatisfaction of from the year’s PA celebration as part of the students with the year’s Paskong Arriba, fund-raising efforts for the Yolanda victims. they are still looking forward to a better and Students also point out the lack of activi- more fun celebration the next time. ties throughout the day as one of the causes “I expect it would be more fun and have of what they say a ‘boring’ PA. more challenging activities the next PA. I “It’s a party, why [weren’t] there activities? recommend that they start earlier so more There are no food stalls, no fun things to do. If it students [will] be able to watch [up to] the weren’t for Parokya ni Edgar, and if my friends end without worrying about their transporand I did not go out afterwards, I wouldn’t even tation,” said junior Financial Management have remembered the PA taking place,” said student Rubelle Nebit.

Communication Arts Senior Joanna Luciño.

Also, Journalism major Alessah Dela Also, second year Engineering student Cruz said: “I expect that there’ll be fireworks Michael Cornejo said: “This year’s PA was at least. That the food would be better, the boring. No fireworks. There are delayed mo- programs would be more fun and inviting.”

Letran proves ‘strong research culture’ in intl confab JAENNA DOMINGO, NEWS TRAINEE Colegio de San Juan de Letran stood out in the research scene as Asst.

Prof. Eloisa Reyes, Inst.

Jet Buenconsejo, and select Psychology students were awarded Best Presenters and Best Innovative Consolanian Researches in the International Conference on Interdisciplinary Research Innovations last December at the La Consolacion University in Malolos, Bulacan.

Reyes presented her paper titled “A Theumatic Analysis of the Mission and Vision Statements in Conference with the 21st Century Skills.”

On the other hand, Psychology students Christelle Janer, Roselle Habana, Armabd Fefericko Aquino and Kathreen Issabelle Aggari also presented their papers.

Janer presented her paper titled “Preliminary Assessment on the Absorption of Methylene Blue Dye in Wastewater Using

Coconut Lumber Sawdust,” while Aquino and Aggari discussed their study, “Morphological and Synergy Effects of Biofertilizers, Bio-organic, and Chemical Fertilizers in Brassica Rapa,” and Habana presented her study, “Larvicidal Efficiency of Piper Nigrum L. and Carica.”

Janer, Aquino, and Aggari are thesis advisees of Asst. Prof. Ian Mariano while Habana has Asst. Prof.

Glen Mangali as her adviser.

An overwhelmed Mariano said that ‘better papers’ are expected from his students in the coming conferences. He also revealed that other researchers will be presented in January.

Buenconsejo, a member of the Letran Research Center management staff and a Psychology alumnus of the Colegio, presented his paper, “Finding Meaning in Life among Selected Filipinos Inspired by Letran proves PAGE 3

NIGHT OF MUSIC AND FUN: Chito Miranda serenades before thousand of Letranites at the eve of Paskong Arriba 2014.

PHOTO By Mascot Famanila

INCAS Chair addresses WiFi issues Jose Paulino M. Domingo

For a number of semesters, the performance of the Letran Free Wi-Fi, formerly Sector 7, has always been unsatisfactory for a good number of Letranites. With all the complaints and dissatisfaction from the users, Integrated Network Computer and Services (INCAS) Director Mario Fernandez, CPA, has an answer to address all the issues.

Aside from the weak connections, there have been innumerable rants about the connection’s limited area of range, uncomfortable hotspot

areas, and the ‘overly strict’ firewall security. At present, the system has a speed of 12 mbps megabytes per second (mbps) supplied by the 12 five-gigahertz (GHz) antenna emitters strategically placed around the Colegio.

Aside from the INCAS’ earlier actions of reintroducing it from having an internet device activated into the system, up to current pop-up browser registration, the Letran Free Wi-Fi remains subject to criticisms from both Letran students and faculties.

Students and employ-

ees have varying complaints about the connection, yet they arrived in one accord and centers at the weak connection.

“Sobrang bagal talaga.

Nagbago lang ang policy pero lalo lang bumagal. Bale parang hindi rin nagagamit.

Madami pa naman kaming papers lagi,” said a junior from the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) who refused to be named.

Because of the said poor connection, some students INCAS PAGE 2

Relic delays basic ed building construction; to open next AY RACHELLE ANNEWOR YUMOL

Auxiliary Services Director Robert Aguba said that their goal is for the former St. Vincent Ferrer building to be operational by the start of the next academic year; meanwhile, the discovery of a relic delayed the construction of the said building.

In March 2011, the Auxiliary Services started clear-

ing the building of things that could still be of use, such as desks and chairs, when the renovation is finished.

The demolition period of the St. Vincent Ferrer building which formerly housed the Grade School Department was from September to November 2012.

“Na-pending yung con-

struction dahil dun sa relic [which is at the back of the building],” Aguba said.

Aguba also clarified that the Colegio complied with an order from the National Historical Institute and the Intramuros Administration to preserve the said relic.

Furthermore, he said Relic PAGE 2

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NEWS

VOLUME NO. XXXVII • ISSUE 7

AXN University invades Letran Ronald espartinez

ACTION PACKED CHRISTMAS SEASON: Letranites join AXN university challenge for P30, 000 reward. | PHOTO BY Mascot Famanila

In its second year, the last leg of the AXioN (AXN) University Challenge tour took place in the Colegio as part of the Paskong Arriba 2013 celebration.

The event brought closer to their viewers the international shows the network offers, such as The Voice, CSI, Amazing Race and Wipeout, through the different activities and booths they organized and structured.

Since AXN is ‘the heart of action and adventure,’ they want to bring entertainment to their viewers in the Philippines nationwide, according to AXN Networks Philippines, Inc. Marketing Manager Leslie Castañeda.

“We wanted to take part of your [Letran’s] Paskong Arriba 2013,” said Castañeda, “We wanted to make sure as part of your festivity we would like to bring entertainment and exciting activities such as stage games, obstacle course which brings fun to the students.”

The highlight of the event was the obstacles challenge wherein different teams of five would have to complete the obstacle course in order to win the challenge. The

Letran proves FROM PAGE 1

Blessed John Paul,” which he had worked on during his college years.

“I’m very proud, of course, [because] I was able to present it [research] again.

I feel blessed, kasi in another event, I was able to share what I’ve found in my study with others—hindi lang dito sa Letran, pati sa international conference,” he said.

Buenconsejo discussed his connection with his topic research and said he was able to relate with the research participants. Also, according to him, he was able to establish a connection between himself and the “man behind his research,” Blessed John Paul II,

course was composed of platforms, tires, a slide, a lava pit, a slide trolley and stairways. The three teams who would finish the fastest would be awarded cash prizes.

“Medyo [kinabahan] kami nun kasi yung pressure, kasi bukod sa kami lang yung representative ng section namin syempre gusto rin naming manalo ng 30 thousand,” said Communication Arts Senior Samantha Masangkay, who participated in the challenge.

She also added that she and her teammates slept early the night before and had a heavy breakfast in able to prepare for the challenge. Unfortunately, her team did not grab the trophy.

The winners of the challenge were Team Athletes (3rd, 10,000 PHP), Team Subok Lang (2nd, 20,000 PHP), and Team Sky (1st, 30,000 PHP).

“Letran students are the best in all of the schools we visited. They really participated in the activities,” said AXN Event Coordinator Jay-Jay Nakpil, commending the participants of the challenge.

The challenge was open to administrators, faculty, and students.

who he described as a ‘person who has so much love for Jesus Christ’ that made people love him. He further stated how becoming a simple person as what Blessed John Paul is can be people’s “stepping stone to holiness.”

Also, he gave advice for other aspiring researchers: “[They] have to be very brave, and you have to take courage and be aggressive, competitive [They] should be courageous in sharing what you’ve found, in sharing the findings of your study, which the society can benefit from. [They] should share it with other people because, primarily, ‘yun naman ang purpose ng research, e.”

Letran submitted 16 entries and ranked second as best presentors.

Languages area holds Spanish filmfest Ralph Ronald Baniqued

Basic and Advanced Spanish professors Sra. Josefina Ricerra González and Sra. Luningning Diawatan Ferrer mounted a mini Spanish film festival titled “Peliculas Españolas” on January 29 at the St. Thomas Hall.

The event was supported by the Languages Area to enrich the knowledge of students about the Spanish language in form of a short program and Spanish film viewing. Students were all invited and encouraged to attend the said event but all students taking up Basic Spanish and Advanced Spanish were required.

Languages Area chair

Relic FROM PAGE 1

that the design of Casas Architects will retain the iconic marking but will be moved to a different part of the building when finished.

The relic will now be placed at the left and right side of the building.

According to Resident Engineer Amorsolo C. Canlas, the construction of the building proceeded with the file driving on December 20, 2012 whereas foundations for the building were laid by LC Build-

incas FROM PAGE 1

preferred to bring their own pocket Wi-Fi to provide themselves the necessary Internet access.

“Either gumagana minsan or super bagal [yung connection], tapos yung [iba] limited areas pa. ‘Yung malalakas yung signal, hindi pa comportable na mga lugar,” said sophomore Communication Major Pauline Gonida.

Moreover, Asst. Prof. Jerry Imbong of the CLAS’s Social Sciences Area also spilled out his disappointment: “Mabagal. Maka-connect man, hindi rin consistent.”

He also added: “Ang daming bawal na sites kahit hindi naman talaga dapat. Pwede sana sa research. Wala eh. Nakaka-disappoint lang talaga.”

Meanwhile, as an answer to the issues, the INCAS director metaphorically compared Wi-Fi to electricity.

“It’s something we cannot conserve. Our job in the ITC [INCAS] is not to make the connections faster but to conserve the limited resources Letran has, manage it efficiently and limit the wastage,” he said.

He further defended that

Asst. Prof. Jonalou Labor opened the program and was followed by a keynote address from a Spanish and French languages instructor Sr. D. Joderick Menorca from the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas.

“You are here [studying] in the Colegio de San Juan de Letran and studying Español because it has a purpose,” said Sr. Menorca in his

ers and Developers, Inc. These were followed by the structural works on May 6, 2013 and architectural works on August 12, 2013 both by the AINA Construction.

Meanwhile, on July 19, 2013, the sanitary plumbing was conducted by the ZYNARP’s Builders and Deepwell Drilling. Also on the same date, the JFA Electrical Construction General Services, Inc. started the fire protection and electrical works for the building.

Engr. Canlas said that there are eight more disci-

the 12 mbps-connection that Letran Free Wi-Fi already has is faster compared to those of what other colleges and universities have.

He also added: “Hindi namin pinapabayaan ang Wi-Fi… Magkaroon lang ng kaunting fluctuation, nirereklamo kagad namin sa ISP [Internet Service Provider].”

Furthermore, wanting to give a better answer to the issues, Fernandez said that the INCAS is proposing a new subscription plan with another ISP that shall increase the speed of the system from 12 mbps to 20 mbps.

Nonetheless, he said: “For now, ITC [INCAS] is taking it phase-by-phase. We can’t just rush things. Phase one pa lang na malakas sa Liem at Quezon. Later, Liem, Quezon, Catwalk naman, then later, all of Letran.”

As for the firewall issues, Fernandez said it is in the best effort of his office to filter in and out of every site that may help the Letranites in their works, and as they may have unintentionally blocked sites that some may have found useful, he said they are just being extra careful.

As for now, Fernandez is asking for the participation of

speech. He also talked about the Spanish language and his experiences while teaching the said language.

The screened films were; “Mortadelo y Filemon,” a film based on the popular Spanish comic book series

by Francisco Ibáñez Talavera; “Un Franco, 14 Pesetas,” a film made by Carlos Iglesias; and “Un Ladron de Cuatro Manos,” a sci-fi film.

plines to be offered for companies who are willing to work with the construction: water-proofing, pre-cast, glass and aluminum, auxiliary system, mechanical works, steel works, painting, and raised flooring before the next school year.

The Saint Vincent Ferrer building will feature classrooms on both sides and a corridor in the center which acts as a walkway; a first in the Colegio.

The project manager for the renovation of the Saint Vincent Ferrer building is Fr. Boyd R. Sulpico, O.P.

HOTSPOT: Letranite seeks stable WiFi Connection at the Quezon Garden.

the Letranites and for them to wait. “We are doing with what is of best interest of Letran as a whole,” he said. “[Letran Free WiFi] is not for the purpose of social media. We understand that youngsters have to update with your friends but it’s not what it is designed for,” he said, “The WiFi is purposed to help students with their studies, especially in research for the fulfilment of the Colegio’s Mission and Vision.”

NEWS

January 2014 • 12 pages

CA seniors present paper abroad Rachelle Annewor T. Yumol Research papers written by students from the Institute of Communication were accepted and presented at the 2nd International Conference on Humanity, Culture, and Society (ICHCS) from December 29-30, 2013 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Among the selected studies is ‘Facebooking Airspace: A study on the effectiveness of Cebu Pacific Facebook page in maintaining the positive image,’ written

by Communication Arts seniors Normee Claire Noelle Agatep and Zyra Shemita Quirrez, under the supervision of their adviser, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Dean Prof. Rowena Capulong-Reyes.

“We are very thankful that we have our adviser to guide us along the way.

Without her [Prof. Reyes], I don’t think that our paper will be possible at all,” said Agatep while her partner, Quierrez, expressed her gladness about the acceptance, “Super unexpected kasi international conference yun, so meaning, may mga nag-submit from different countries, tapos kasali [kami] sa mga magpre-present.”

The other studies that were presented are ‘Perception on Indie films of selected Intramuros-based audiences’

Series of media crimes ends 2013 Carlo Sunga

YOUNG RESEARCHER: Letran comm seniors present their theses abroad From Left: Kriselle Paladin, Normee Agatep, Gerald Fuentes PHOTO courtesy of zyra quierrez

by Dwight Roussel Glenn Labilles and Gil Gerald Fuentes, and ‘Meron or wala: A study on the usefulness of Twitter during Typhoons as perceived by the selected students of Intramuros-based schools’ by Kris Anne Jansen Ramos and Kriselle Paladin, also advisees of the CLAS Dean.

“I feel so thrilled that our thesis has been chosen among hundreds na nagsubmit around the world.

Masaya kasi nag [pay] off lahat ng efforts sa thesis,” said Fuentes.

Serving as a platform for sharing views and experiences in humanity, culture, society and related areas, the conference aims to gather researchers, scientist, engineers, and scholar students to exchange and share their experiences,

new ideas and research results, and discuss the practical challenges and adopted solutions.

The selected papers will be published in the International Journal of Social Science and Humanity as one volume, which will be included in the Engineering and Technology Digital Library. Also, according to the ICHCS website, one best paper will be selected from each oral session and will be recognized in the Welcome Banquet on the second day of the conference.

Two keynote speakers will be in the conference: Prof. Jason Lim Miin Hwa, Fullbright Research 20092010 Scholar of the University of Michigan, and Dr. Clayton D. Peoples from the Department of Sociology of the University of Nevada.

Would-be grads partake in Arriba Job Fair 2014 Jamie Rosseditt P. Garcesa

ENTERING THE REAL WORLD: Graduating seniors of 2014 search for employment in the recently held job fair.

PHOTO By MASCOT FAMANILA

The graduating students of 2014 geared themselves to employment choices and opportunities through the annual Arriba Job Fair at the Guidance and Finance Lobby on January 29.

With its theme ‘A peek to the Real World,’ participating companies and/or sponsors were BDO, Asia Brewery Incorporated, Jobs180, Cognizant Technology Solutions, IBM, Transcom, John Clements Consultants Inc., MegaWorld Corporation, Philippine National Bank, Tri-Phil International Incor-

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porated, Hajah Travel, 1st Life, China Bank, KMC Solutions, Concentrix, Eastwest Bank, eBEAR, UCPB GEN, Proserve Multi Resources Specialists Inc., FamilyMart and ABS-CBN. According to Ms. Rosemarie Palisoc, Director of Job Placement and organizer of the said activity, there were 37 expected companies to come but 3-4 of it weren’t able to make it through.

As for its importance to the Colegio and the students, she said: “The Arriba Job Fair helped in marketing the school and building and

strengthening linkages to different companies. It was a venue for job hiring, not just a mock job search. It also boosted the morale of the students, and it set the mood for life outside Letran, and their chosen career path.”

Asked about the characteristics of an applicant, Ms. Nikki Capil, HR Assistant of China Bank said, “He/she must be a 4-year graduate, must not have less than 3-5 failing grades, willing to learn in our main branch; Makati and other branches, can work under time pressure and is customer service oriented.”

As for the impact of the activity to Letran would-be graduates, one Financial Marketing student said, “It is easier to secure a job and I feel like there’s a lot of opportunities for me outside Letran.”

Aside from the job fair, the Guidance and Counseling Center also held career seminars last August 2013 and an on-going exit interview to this year’s graduating batch.

FROM AN EXPERT: ICOMM Director AP Bana points out to exercise caution to budding media practitioners |PHOTO By Dwight LabIlles

Before the end of 2013, there had been a series of suspicious murders involving three media practitioners in different parts of the Philippines in only a span of two weeks.

One of the victims, Joan Dignos, was shot dead on November 29 in Valencia City, Bukidnon. The journalist died after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds.

Prime Radio FM Supervisor and Prime Balita Managing Editor Michael Milo, was shot by three assailants riding a motorcycle as while on his way home at the night of December 6 in Tandang City, Surigao del Sur. Lastly, Rogelio Butalid, a 44-yearold radio commentator, was also shot by gunmen on a motorcycle in Tagum Ciry, Davao del Norte on December 11.

Nonetheless, according to Philippine National Police (PNP) chief General Alan Purisima, they do not see any pattern connecting the cases. Purisima also noted that media organizations are assured of special investigation tasks groups of season crime investigators. The crime investigators will be composed of forensic examiners, legal teams, intelligence, support and local police.

Meanwhile, several John Does and identifies suspect are filed with murder cases of the Northern Mindanao police. Workrelated angle was ruled by Task Group Milo but still considering the angle of filial relationship, however, a sketch of the gunman of Butalid slay case in Tagum City led to an easier investigation.

Under the Aquino administration, there are at least 11 media workers have been killed; eight were killed when the president assumed his office in 2010.

On May 2006, PNP – Task Force USIG was created to follow the series of media killings.

Budding practitioners also in danger “I don’t think it is just for certain people to treat journalists badly, because in a way, journalists open our eyes to the reality that happens in our country. For people to kill them is like depriving us of the truth.

That is why I think people should be more concerned about it and voice their opinion to the government,” said Broadcasting freshman Beau Santos.

Furthermore, Institute of Communication Director Asst. Prof. Norberto Bana III expressed his thoughts about the recent murders.

“Taking this job is dangerous, media practitioners must never take their security measures for granted,” he said.

The director also gave an advice to all aspiring media practitioners on the current situation of events: “Exercise caution. Inform editors about current whereabouts. Also inform the authorities.”

Theology faculty rallies youth to join DomNet Angelica Jaenna Q. Domingo As one of the youth sector advisers, Asst. Prof.

Perwin Ragudo of Letran’s Theology Area encouraged teens to join and commit themselves to the activities of the Dominican Network (DomNet).

DomNet is a network of Dominicans composed of different schools, colleges and universities wherein participants share resources and promote the Dominican charism to adults and youth alike. DomNet organizes

various events that gather students to enrich the Dominican spirituality of the participants and improve their community life.

In the months of April and May, DomNet’s sectors are set to mount summer youth camps wherein according to Ragudo, the youth were able to study more, pray, socialize and serve the community.

To gather participants,

Theology PAGE 10

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OPINION

VOLUME NO. XXXVII • ISSUE 7

Editorial

New Generation, Old Problem Since the rise of the Internet in the 1990s, the online patrons have slowly become dependent in this new type of innovation, and as the new generation was born in the midst of its growing empire, there was so great a population boom that the people on the Internet acquired their own identification—the Netizens.

Nowadays, with the easy-access search engines such as Google and Yahoo, social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter and other multimedia platforms or websites, the Netizen population continues to grow and become more dependent on these online services.

Evidently, a big portion of the Netizens is composed of young men and women, primarily, students. For them, the Internet has been their weapon in different battles such as making business plans, market research, writing their thesis papers, communication and other scholastic activities.

Like in the Colegio, the installation and optimization of a public Wi-Fi network, a lot expected ‘convenience.’

Most were thankful for they would need not to go outside to rent computer units to do their projects yet the connection delivered the unexpected.

A slow connection would have been tolerable, but for months now, the system has gone up and down and never consistent. There are also difficulties in connecting to the network, and hotspots and situated in inconvenient places.

Moreover, not only the students in school are affected by the fail connection, but also the paying guests of the Colegio’s dormitory. Dormers pay an extra P410 to register their laptop in the Saint Vincent Liem Dela Paz dormitory, yet they still have to leave the safety of the dormitory to be able to finish their school works and meet their dues.

Regular students are also paying P650 every semester for Internet fees which sums to P1300 a year.

Also, instead of saving some cash for the free connection, dorm tenants purchase own broadbands, pocket Wi-Fi’s and other portables instead, adding more to the cost of their rent, which is already quite high.

To cut it all short, the students are unsatisfied because what they pay for is not justified. There should be a stronger connection in places like the libraries, the catwalk and in the canteen, where students can work conveniently and comfortably, and where chairs and tables are actually available.

There are no definite solutions to these problems, but a stable network should have been structured first before actually launching it for use. At present, the system still seems to be in the trial and error stage, which makes it not worth the price students pay for.

The Colegio’s sources may be limited but it must be maximized to the extent that it may cover the needs of everyone who pays for the service. This is not all about the Internet connection but this is how the student’s fees are justified.

Indeed, we have been living a new generation but still experiencing an old problem.

Ralphe Lawrenze Alarcon Editor-in-Chief Diane Marie Reyes Managing Editor Ina Mae Peñafuerte Lianne Dominique Hidalgo Rea Antonette Gierran Sports Editor News Editor Acting Features Editor Ma. Teresita Distor Design Editor

Jan Joseph Mascot Famanila Photo Editor

Marjorie Malabad, Adrian Masacupan, Kim Daniel Rubinos, Kevin Louise Valdez 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 @pinasaralphe eic.thelance@gmail.com

He who fails hard deserves much respect I am a grade conscious student and you don’t have to tell it straight to my face. I am like this because I have reasons that not everybody understands. You also don’t have to tell me that grades are just numbers, it’s an academic world cliché.

When a professor or a friend tells you that grades are just numbers, we are relieved. From the verge of giving up, when we know we are about to fail in a general education or a professional course, when somebody says that quote, we see every morning as a new beginning and that in time, grades will not really tell you what kind of student you were during your studying years.

In a motivational article written by Lauren Martin, she said: “For years, society has placed a disgustingly large stigma on bad grades and an over-

whelming importance on good grades. There’s a predisposed instinct to strive for As and cast anything lower to the side, to deem as unworthy. Well, it’s time to let the children learn that it’s okay not to be an A student, it’s okay to fail. “ Martin also added that failing is a life experience that also equates with the one who pulls an all-nighter to study. Both are life experiences but still different and yet, sometimes, of the same results.

Writer Joan K. Rowling, the brain of the Harry Potter series, is a self-confessed product of failures. In one of her keynote addresses, she said: “It is impossible to live without falling at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not lived at all.”

Often, studying in college for a degree is called a stepping-stone to land a good job. With this notion,

we are blindly obliged to study, strive and compete with our classmates overzealously. However, high grades or remarks are said to be our edge among others who are venturing in the real world after graduation.

The remarks on our report cards are said to be the determinant of our future but still, it is not an assurance.

Now, I will tell you that grades really don’t tell what kind of student I am today, but my efforts to ace every task on hand can explain it further. It is not the general average on the report cards I had from the previous semesters which led me to be respected by some people I know, but the hard work I gave in every group work or individual requirements needed to pass. In-between of the jaunt to get a good remark, I failed not once but several times which will not make us less of a man.

Grades are just numbers and they are the results of our hard work.

I have made this far and many are still working harder to be better, you may start the best person you can be, right now. You can always follow the rules but remember that the great philosophers, scientists and the intellectuals outsmarted the others because they take risk, they fail and they are who we cite now.

OPINION

January 2014 • 12 pages

blank verses Diane Marie Reyes @thedianereyes onewjeandia@gmail.com

Getting fit Have you been asking yourself what to do to tidy away all the fat from last year? The fat that caused you to be overweight and have a heavy heart? Well, here are some tips to start living the life you’ve always wanted to live.

1. Write down the burdens you dream to detach from your life as well as the solutions you need on how you would untangle those.

This will be your program.

Think deeply and from the heart. Imagine the life you had last year. Have some flashback on your head and pick the ones that made you obese with hurt and fear.

From this, list down bigger and greater dreams. Don’t settle on little, it would be much better if you try to be different.

2. Don’t say “I will start tomorrow” rather, “Let’s do this/these today.” Believe me, you won’t achieve any-

thing if you keep on postponing and setting aside your goals. If that would be the case, you won’t be getting anywhere. All you need is to focus.

3. Ask guidance from the expert to do these the right way. Sometimes, you have to rely on someone who knows more than you do. It is better to ask questions than sit all day thinking how you should this.

Consult the people you trust; the people who would be with you along the road.

4. Be patient. Don’t push yourself to the edge and exert all efforts just to get what you want immediately. Nothing is abrupt. Everything must undergo some kind of process you must follow.

5. Allow yourself to grow with every move you make. Learn the good things from the exercise and assert them as habits. Be open to mistakes. Through this,

three minutes or less Ina mae PeÑafuerte @inapenafuerte inapenafuerte@gmail.com

Passion over fury I used to dream of becoming someone whom they will come up to, with a smile on their faces, and say ‘well done.’

Not so long ago, I dreamed of becoming a filmmaker. I wanted to make people see my visions and the way I see the world. I wanted to take people in different journeys, to let them explore the places I have been to. At various times, I would have even let them in a different world.

However, when I entered college, I developed a new dream and that is to be a writer. I have completely forgotten my former dream.

Nonetheless, it is not only writing that had taken me away from my dream of becoming a filmmaker. It is the seemingly decreasing quality of Filipino films.

In my eyes, I see the blockbuster value becoming more of a necessity than art, which should be more important. I have al-

ways known filmmaking as an opportunity to tell stories that matter, to inform people, to elicit realizations, to bring into attention the different issues of the real world through moving pictures. But most of the local movies I have seen in the past years—mostly mainstream—do not contain these things. They have somehow given a different definition to filmmaking.

I have nothing against mainstream films and their fanatics, and not that I am definitely siding with independent films, but I cannot see the redeeming factor of the Philippine Cinema in the movies of the present time.

I have somehow lost faith in the local film industry.

Just recently, I was able to watch six out eight Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) films in three consecutive days. In all honesty, I have got to say some of the films left me disappointed. For a

you’ll get used to every pain and you’ll know how you would face them. It is like there would be enough confidence that when you fall or when you stumble, eventually you’ll find yourself up again.

6. Eat healthy. Choose the best kind of opinions, comments and suggestions of others. Throw out of the window what might be the reasons for you to be disheartened. Likewise, drink a lot of courage and positivism.

7. Remember to rest.

Take a break and have a good time. You need not to be serious sometimes. Have some cup of coffee with friends, loved ones, and if you have your partner, save a day for him or her. With such, you won’t get to a point wherein you’d say you’re having too much and that you are already drained. Bank some energy to face more of what may come.

Indeed, it is a brand new year. Perhaps the feng shui predicted that this is in favor of the wooden horse but it does not mean it can’t be in yours, too. It is the time to remove all the anxiety and outset your 2014 with a bang. Follow these tips and be happy all throughout your year! Come on, let’s flesh out that fat. film to be included in a festival means, it is with good quality and art. Some of the films presented ‘something’ else.

I will not start commenting on the films; it will just make this seem like a review. Nonetheless, the six films I watched made me feel various things. To be honest, some made me feel quite mad. Why? It is because mediocrity had somehow invaded the festival.

They left me asking how this kind of films made it in such a prestigious festival.

Filmmakers and actors have this privilege of expressing their interpretations of reality and presenting them to their audience. They have this kind of voice, and they do not have any problem making people listen. But the thing is, some do not seem to use this opportunity the right way. I have seen experimental love teams and tandems turn into something effective, then, repeatedly used until they get old. As long as it sells, it will keep on going.

The same thing goes with storylines.

Nonetheless, a number of films from the 2013 MMFF made me think twice.

I have been thinking if filmmakers and artists continue to do things right, the Philippine mainstream cin-

5

Knights Quoted Do you feel it?

In a few days school is coming to a close, and before we start talking about end and beginnings, we got a hold of some opinions of brave knights who answered the question that will surely sum up what happened during the school year : “Naramdaman niyo ba ang tuition fee increase?”

Regarding naman sa services ng school, tingin ko kailangan pa ng improvement, syempre tuition fee (sic) increase means may increase din sa salary ng mga professors so we should expect improvement in terms of their service. So far, konti pa lang ang nakikita kong faculty na may improvement sa pag-tuturo. Tingin ko, eto yung mga bagay na explicitly manifested which I observed.

Syempre we should also consider other costs ng school na hindi tayo informed. So sana next time i-publicize ng school yung mga expenses para hindi ma-question ng ibang students kung saan napupunta yung pera natin.

Rey Torres, SC Vice President

Wala naman nagbago eh. It’s all the same.

Kung meron man silang binago hindi dahil sa tuition fee. (sic) yun kundi sa mga sponsors from the alumni of the school.

Paolo Casem, Political Science

“Oo may pagtaas at nararamdaman namin ng magulang ko ‘yon. Mahirap mag-adjust pero kailangan. Pero masusulit mo lang yun kapag nag-aral ka ng maayos.”

Ilaya De Guzman, Journalism

Oo. Naramdaman ko yung seven percent tuition fee (sic) increase kasi syempre yung sa magulang ko nagulat sila biglang tumaas yung tuition fee (sic) pero parang hindi ko naman nakita yung kinalagyan ng seven percent increase na yun kung saan man napunta kasi parang wala namang improvement sa Letran.

April Ann Ruzol, Psychology

Naramdaman ko naman. Kasi yung cr nagkaroon na ng mga bidet. Tapos pansin ko mabilis din ung construction nung bagong building. Ayun lang so far napansin ko.

Algel Pitos, Information Technology

Medyo? Siguro? Dahil dun sa ginagawang building. Nag-increase ng seven percent tapos di nila maipaayos mga projector.

Hanna Ranullo Galmak, Accountancy

The views and opinions written above do not reflect that of The LANCE’s. compiled by Lianne Hidalgo

ema might still have a bright future.

And while I have been feeling kind of furious for such waste of talent I have witnessed, I felt motivated to pursue filmmaking again.

I mean, I like screenwriting, directing, going on productions and editing, so why not?

I am not saying I can definitely do better, but it is worth the shot. I will look for a chance to show what I see and when the time comes, I will definitely grab the opportunity. For now, I will continue to learn about the fundamentals of filmmaking and try to see reality as it is and more.

When the social networking site Twitter has the w lor Swift,’ and ‘Meryll Streep for Best Actress’ as the tren mean one thing. It is the awards’ season.

It is the time when A-list stars don lavish tuxedos with over-the-top accessories only to be bombed with fl from the cameras taking their photos in every possible a

There’s no denying, it is the awards’ season—capp giving ceremonies like the Emmys, Tonys and Grammys Awards and as most people know it, the Oscars.

The Academy Awards is the ceremony that celebr film for the past twelve months.

Here’s my take on what’s hot and what’s not.

Starting off with Gravity which are backed up with dustry like George Clooney, Sandra Bullock, and Alfonso tor. Gravity is a survival story of two astronauts involved space shuttle and their attempt to return to Earth.

A visual spectacle as viewers are transported in an truly mind-boggling. With its enthralling details, it offer clear vision. Considering the constraints of holding their tions while acting, the acting performance of the actors deservingly earned her Best actress nomination. I give i Moving on to another remarkable acting performa ally-snubbed Leonardo DiCaprio in The Wolf of Wall Str DiCaprio, endearingly called by many as Jack [of Titanic critics for the Best Actor award.

His recent performances in Shutter Island, Incepti Great Gatsby haven’t been enough to gain recognition. T role as Jordan Belfort, a corrupt stockbroker that engage Wall Street in the 1990s.

This is also the film where the connection betwee tors DiCaprio and Martin Scorsese has been the most fru to find a film that tackles drugs and dark humor, this is t 7.5/10.

From one big name in the industry to another, Jen again charms the masses with the second offering of the Hunger Games trilogy. Catching Fire continues the story deen and Peeta Mellark, the victors of the 74th Hunger

words ‘nip slip,’ ‘Love Taynding topics, it could only

and gowns partnered lashes of lights coming angle.

ping of multiple award and the Academy

rates the achievements in

h big names in the ino Cuarón as the direcd in the destruction of a

n environment that is rs thrills, dazzles, and r body in strange posiare amazing. Bullock it an 8/10. ance, we have the usureet. In the past years, c] has been ignored by the

ion, J. Edgar, and The This time, he shines in his es in security fraud in

en long time collaborauitful. If you’re looking the film for you. I give it a

nnifer Lawrence once e massive franchise the y of Katnis Ever-

Games.

As chaos ensues, we see the lead character battle to control the political round-tripping of the Capitol. It is action packed and thoroughly compelling addition to the series. The box-office numbers explain its effect on the people as it truly explored the book’s thought-provoking themes. I give it an 8/10.

Guess what trumped Catching Fire in the box office after a couple of weeks? It is none other than the charming, adorable and “LSS-worthy” Disney offering Frozen—a film that truly touched the hearts of everyone, including the youngsters and the young-at-heart. Frozen takes us back to a time full of innocence. The film is a hallmark of an old-school Disney animated fairytale.

Queen Elsa and Anna capture the classic Disney spirit yet still manage to input contemporary ideals. Instead of having the washed-up love story between a princess and her lover, Frozen explores the loving relationship between two sisters and how it can transcend everything. The crowd favourite song ‘Let It Go’ rightfully earns a nod in the Best Original Song category. I give it a resounding 9/10.

Last but not the least is a subtle, sweet, and soulful love story between a lonely writer and his intelligent computer operating system (OS). Her was written, produced and directed by Spike Jonze of Where The Wild Things Are. It stars Joaquin Phoenix as Theodore Twombly as the introverted man who writes letters for other people and Scarlett Johansson as the voice of the female OS identity of his computer who takes the name of Samantha.

Twombly slowly develops feelings his OS because of the deep connection he is having with her after a very difficult separation from his wife Catherine, portrayed by Rooney Mara. It is a work of a science fiction that still manages to stay close to the heart is what makes Her very special. Viewers will be in awe as to how the film explores human relationships. I highly recommend this film, I give it a 9.5/10.

The legendary film and fashion icon, Audrey Hepburn once said, “Everything I learned I learned from the movies.” It is a mirror of our society. Not only are films a visual thrill to us but, it is reflective of who we are. We can use it to have a better understanding of ourselves, so don’t feel bad for spending a lot for movie tickets. It sure has its perks. Here’s to more quality films, local and international, this year!

8

FEATURES

Killjoy

Deadly festivals from around the world Kevin Louise Valdez New Year’s Eve is a festive and joyous occasion.

That is, of course, if all things go well. A stray firework here and a fault in judgment there and you might be issuing yourself a class-A ticket to the emergency room. And this very real and very dangerous threat has been accepted as a mere fact of life by some.

Japan’s Beat-Your-FriendsUp-With-Bamboo-Day I love Japan, but I honestly believe that that country owns the monopoly for weird things that exist in this world. So if you told me that Japan has a festival where its participants get drunk, hammered, and freaking wasted while bashing each others’ skull with bamboo rods…

I’d believe you in a heartbeat.

Called: Takeuchi, which literally translates to ‘bamboo battle,’ is a festival set in the Rokugo, Akita prefecture where participants are divided into ‘north’ and ‘south’ groups are armed with long sturdy bamboo rods and for a few minutes are tasked with whacking the heads of the opposing team with their wooden weapons. Not crazy enough? Well then as I said earlier, participants are expected to be drunk before the fighting begins. Still not crazy enough for you? The bamboo rods, by the way, are on fire.

Mexico’s Exploding-HammerDay In San Juanito, Mexico, they have a rather odd way of venerating their namesake St. John the Baptist. No, they do not celebrate via baptism or any event that could be reasonably traced back to their patron saint. No. They strap gunpowder to hammers and make it go boomboom.

I honestly do not know if they mistook St. John the Baptist with Thor but exploding hammers, while dangerous, sounds absolutely magical.

India’s Siege-Your-NeighborWith-Stones-Day The story goes like this: two lovers from rival villages eloped against the will of their elders. In response, both villages, being populated by apparently vengeful children, ended up throwing rocks at each other. You know, like Romeo and Juliet, but with more collateral damage and head trauma.

Gotmar Mela, a festival dedicated to relieving that historic tale has two rival villages, separated by a river; hurl rocks at each other until one side gets tired of rocks falling from the freaking sky. Would it surprise you to learn that liquor is involved? Cause liquor is involved by the way. Naturally.

India’s Apocalypse-Dodge-Ball-Day Every eighth of April, a festival is held at the Shree Kateel Durga Parameshwari Temple in India, and on the second night they host a positively demented event called the Agni Keli.

The participating men are divided into two teams and are given five palm fronds to be ignited which they then throw at the opposing team. If they run out “ammo,” they must stand there and dodge. But if ever their loincloth, which is the only thing they’re wearing catches fire, worry not, their teammate then sprays them down with some special holy water called Kumkumarchane to put out the flames.

For all our tampering with volatile gunpowder during New Year’s Eve, we at least have enough selfpreservation skills to not attempt to emulate these crazy festivities.

VOLUME NO. XXXVII • ISSUE 7

Keeping Up With My Resolutions Kevin Louise Valdez

I Swear!

New Year’s resolutions have become one of those things that we are not only expected to make but also entirely expected to follow through. So-much-so that some of us haven’t even bothered making one at all. But if you did make a New Year’s resolution for this year and you are resolute to follow it through to the end, then here are some tips that may help you get started and keep you going.

.

Aim to better yourself The easiest way to stick rinwith a resolution is to int th wi er eth tog it sically tie ent. your own self-betterm you s, thi ing At least by do that are working for a goal tter. be be makes you feel and

Have a plan and stick with it.

This maybe is the epitome of boring but practical. List down all the things you need and want to do, schedule it accordingly, allocate time for everything, and most importantly stick to doing it. Having a plan or having a to-do list is a simple way to motivate oneself to actually be doing things you promise on doing all those years ago.

Be realistic.

You’re not going to be that super amazing person you plan on being (at least not immediately). Not saying you can’t be that person, but you won’t be that person overnight. Or even in the course of a single year. There’s nothing wrong with dreaming big but for the present, take your time and slowly move forward. You won’t get there today, you won’t get there tomorrow, but you will get there someday.

Have fun.

Track yourself.

Now that you’re actually in the process of keeping up with your New Year’s resolution, you might want to actually keep track of your New Year’s resolution. Set simple, attainable goals to strive for and rewards for whenever you accomplish them.

Nothing more needs to be said.

theLifeanddeathof

flappy bird Programmers, game designers, and game developers all ask themselves one thing: What is the next killer app? No one really has the formula for a successful iOS or Android app, so we just circle on an endless repetition of trial and error. Who knows if your app will be the next Angry Birds, or the next Plant vs Zombies?

But in a stroke of brilliance or just plain ol’ luck, Hanoi-based indie developer Dong Nguyen stumbled upon his ticket to success in the form of what may be the most annoying, frustrating, and inexplicably charming game: Flappy Bird.

Now Flappy Bird is an endless runner style game, where you are tasked to maneuver through the ups

Kevin Louise Valdez and downs of an infinite set app/play store. of pipes. The goal is simple In statements given by survive the longest and pass Nguyen, he expressed disthrough the most pipes, hit- taste from all the attention ting said pipes will result in he is getting, good and bad. the death of the titular flap- And he wishes to return to a py bird and I do hope you much simpler and peaceful like seeing the death anima- lifestyle. While some people tion of flappy bird cause you would certainly raise a brow will be seeing it over, and or two at Nguyen’s decision, over, and over again. do note it was probably a deIts design is simplistic cision that did not come easy. and the art is unsophistiConsidering that Flappy cated and most runner style Bird was earning for its makendless runner style games, er an estimate of $50,000 there is no real end goal. You daily. Not monthly; daily. Yes just live for as long as can the game that has one conand believe me, that won’t trol input, one objective, simbe long. plistic art design, and a few Yet while the story of days worth of coding made a game beloved by tons of someone $50,000 per day. people despite of or maybe So marks the end of because of its simplistic na- Flappy Bird. Not to be deture, its success was short throned by another game lived, as its creator Dong but by the wishes of its creaNguyen pulled it out of the tor for peace and quiet.

FEATURES

January 2014 • 12 pages

9

Changing the Academic Calendar:

blasts or bouquets?

At the same time as plans of changing the Philippine academic calendar have long been proposed, the top most state university of the country leads the way. But the question is, will there be an advantage?

For the past ten years, policies were proposed by the Congress and the Senate of changing our academic calendar to be in line with the US’s and nearby countries. But now, a school official, from the University of the Philippines (UP), Vice President for Public Affairs Prospero de Vera III, announced that upon the approval of their Board of Regents, they will implement the transition not later then 2015. Meaning, the first school year that would experience their transition is the next academic year which is 2014 – 2015.

The shift will apply to all undergraduate and graduate programs, making the university to probably hold their classes on: the third week of August and will end in the third week of December for the first semester; the second week of January and end in the second week of May for the second semester; the third week of June and end in the third week of July, for Summer classes.

Synchronizing with the academic calendar of the members of the Association of South East Asian Nations (Asean) and the international community, and the often suspension of classes during the months of June and July, are the factors that drove UP to take one step ahead in shifting their academic calendar.

Inevitably, a five to six month long vacation will take place before it is implemented. Similarly with UP, the Ateneo de Manila University also looks forward of a chance of shifting. As a verdict, the transition can be adopted by all other schools including Letran.

The assimilation will smooth the progress of moving Filipino students and faculty across the international boundaries that will benefit the educational standards of the country’s universities. This talks about the immense opportunities that the students and teachers will experience as they swell their horizons in other Asean and international community schools.

De Vera also said in an announcement that there is an international program for the youth to spend at least two months in other Asean universities and in return, international students would also spend time here, studying in the country. Students also have the option to cross enroll in the second semester without waiting until January, which is the start of classes in other Asean countries.

However this may not be possible unless the transition is implemented. Because to the extent that they want to bring students internationally, they cannot, as the schedule of the particular youth program co-

incides with the classes of UP. The program’s usual schedule takes place just before the summer vacation in the country, or in July to August as it happens the Philippine’s academic calendar is just in start.

Laws have been proposed for shifting, but not for the reason of internationalization. It is for staying away from the months of June and July where there are lots of often class suspensions mainly because of the typhoons. Positive responses were given, however, there are more who disagreed.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) voiced out that the change in the academic calendar is good, but would require thorough study.

As of press time, three bills were filed in the Congress and Senate; Bagong Henerasyon party-list Representative Bernadette Herrera-Dy filed House Bill 4866 this month, just weeks after Cavite Representative Lani Mercado-Revilla filed House Bill 4895.

Both bills reflect the same intent as Senator Franklin Drilon’s Senate Bill No. 2407, which also seeks a September class opening. Moving graduation from March to May. The proposals will amend Republic Act No. 7797 of 1994 and the 1987 Administrative Code that fixed the school term from June to March.

Alberto Muyot, Education Undersecretary for Legal and Legislative Affairs said that they are open to proposals, but they need opinions from Pagasa, and other institutions, since class suspensions are no longer mainly caused by typhoons, instead by floods and rainfall which occur even until September.

Furthermore, the official explained that the current academic calendar was designed for a good reason: the Holy Week break usually falls just after graduation, while hometown festivities are often scheduled between April and May. The summer break covers the hottest months of the year, which is not very appropriate for studying.

The proposals plan to start classes in September, just like in the US. But there, the hottest months are July and August. April and May hold all festivities, religious and social. It’s also harvest time, therefore some parents will need their children to help them.

Back in 2009, the Department of Education conducted a survey of moving the start of classes in September, but found out that 66% among the 16 regions were against the proposal. Leaving the other third in favor. The verdict concluded that the hot climate during April and May is too hot for the students to bear. To amend the heat, schools will need additional ventilation which will unfortunately cause the electric bills to rise up.

Whether or not the proposals will be implemented, and even if positive and negative reactions are in number, for how many years the current academic calendar was used, quality education have been evidently present. As schools and universities raise top students and professionals. So at least, the country coped up with the calendar that will soon cease to exist.

Giving Giving the act of

By: Kevin Louise Valdez

“So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy,

do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.” Matthew 6:2-4 It’s an oxymoron isn’t it? It is shameful to admit

Antonio Miguel Soriano

that we often give gifts for the most impure of reasons.

We give gifts to impress people with our wealth. We give offerings to curry favor from another person. We so brazenly donate in an attempt to bolster ones ego. Whatever the case, ‘giving selfishly’ is something we have dab-

ble on for a moment or two in our life. But that needs to stop now.

We need to learn how to give honestly, to give completely. We must stop the practice of giving selfishly as there are no gifts born from selfish motives, only bribes. Give to everyone who asks of you, and whoever takes away what is yours, do not have the desire to want something back is also something we must prevent in ourselves.

It’s difficult, right?

Giving your everything to something, to someone, and not expecting something in return? It’s a mortifying experience, it’s also very acidic. It taints the essence of giving gifts. It skewers your rationality and poisons your thoughts.

Desire destroys; it’s a lesson people learn the hard

way, I know I did. We must learn and appreciate that the happiness and smiles and sheer joy our gifts bring is payment enough. That the mere fact that our gifts our accepted is enough.

Give with an honest heart and all will be fine.

Truly, nothing more needs to be said but it’s hard to imagine oneself being happy when one gives away everything one hasTo give because you want to make someone, someone you may not know or someone because only through such a way can we say that we are practicing the act of giving.

This is true. I mean, what is left of a man who gave away everything? But isn’t it that a man who has given everything willingly, will never have be left with simply nothing.

10

NEWS

VOLUME NO. XXXVII • ISSUE 6

Knights go south for try-outs Angelica Sta. Ana Letran Basketball Coaches Ronjay Enrile and Mike Buendia held try-outs for young aspirants at the Notre Dame SAC Gym in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao last December. This was done to further seek talented additions to match the Colegio’s competing schools’ drive to the top.

“The try-outs went well. We found four boys whom we saw some potential, and we will be bringing [them] here just after they finish this school year.

We will actually be back to hold another try-out on February 15 and 16 to give chance to those who were on vacation during the time we visited [there] and were not able to give it a shot. Hopefully, we will be able to get a few more guys,” Enrile said.

The try-outs being given by Letran to local players from different regions of the nation is in line with the Colegio’s aim to preserve, as much as possible, the tradition of having an all-Filipino basketball team.

“Of course, as much as possible, the coaching staff prefers home-grown play-

Letran Netters

FROM PAGE 12 vailed as they slipped past the Mendiola-based athletes.

Meanwhile, Letran’s jins also went home empty handed as they saw their long-time rivals, the San Beda Red Jins, dominate the men’s and women’s divisions in the Tae Kwon Do tournament of NCAA at the Jose Rizal University Gym. Letran Coach Lowell Remegio is still reeling from this disappointment.

“Para akong pinagsakluban eh. Lagi ko ngang iniisip ‘yun. Ngayon lang talaga kami walang naiuwing medal. Kasi, palaging kami yung nasa top, yung nagchachampion. Ang pinakamababa naming ranking na nakukuha is 3rd. Mahirap talagang tanggapin,” he said.

San Beda was dominant

Theology

FROM PAGE 4 invitations were sent to different institutions with the help of DomNet National Youth Adviser, Rev. Fr. Jeff Aytona, O.P. “It’s good to journey together and was able to develop one’s Dominican identity,” said Ragudo.

Furthermore, Ragudo

KnightSpot

Men’s Volleyball Team captain:

‘Train hard to win’ Rea Antonette Gierran

FUTURE KNIGHTS: Letran Knights hopeful at the try-outs held at the ARMM | Photo Courtesy of Ronjay Enrile

ers. We admit though, that it is a big challenge to not have a foreign player on the team, with almost everyone having their imports on their teams. But we are trying our best to help our locals do better so they can match the foreign players,” Enrile admitted.

Letran also aims to open doors for talents who have yet to be discovered.

McJour Luib, a Cagayan de Oro native, was scouted back in high school by one of the coaches of the Letran Squires during the try-outs then. He was seen with great

potential and was given a chance to play for the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) under the Letran Squires and now, the Knights.

“I’m just happy that Letran is giving an opportunity for young players to play in this team and showcase their talents, just like me before. And I am nothing but thankful for that,” Luib said.

The Letran Basketball team hopes for favorable results towards winning the elusive 17th banner in the next NCAA season with the new talents in their roster.

said that DomNet’s youth members themselves organize and plan the events for the network because “it is good to develop the sense of leadership.”

Meanwhile, Mr. Brian said that they are having difficulties to encourage the youth to commit to the DomNet because “there is a hesitation for them [teens] when they [would hear] ‘re-

ligious affairs’ when in fact DomNet is a movement, not a religious [affair].”

Moreover, according to Ragudo, they cannot successfully implement other activities because of financial constraints. Despite this, Ragudo continues to encourage students to join.

“We are not after of how many students we have rather who are committed,” he said.

on the mat as they accumulated 391 points to capture their league-high sixth men’s title, beating surprise second placer San Sebastian College (225 points) and last season’s titlist College of Saint Benilde (199.3 points) in the two-day event.

The Red Lions also topped the distaff side with 323.57, dethroning the CSB Lady Blazers, who wound up second with 299 points, for its second championship in three seasons. The Lady Stags placed third with 239.24 points.

The Letran Tae Kwon Do Team has always been one of the leading contenders in the said event in the NCAA, a reason why many considered this year’s result as shocking.

“Nagkaproblema kasi sa eligibility yung mga veteran players ko. Wala na-

man problema sa training kasi lahat naman sila umaattend eh, meron kasi nitong home study program yung mga veteran players ko. Eh hindi pala nakapagbayad ng tuition yung isa, yung iba naman hindi uma-attend,” coach Lowell explained.

“Karamihan sa mga lumaban yung mga rookie players ko. Ikumpara mo naman yun sa mga veteran players na nakalaban nila.

Syempre, ninenerbyos pa yung mga yun,” he added.

Because of this, Coach Lowell is thinking about someone he can closely work with when it comes to monitoring the academics of his players.

Amid all of this, Coach Lowell remains confident that they will bounce back and regain the top spot next season. “Babawi talaga kami,” he said.

SPIKER AND SKIPPER: Men’s Volleyball Team Captain Alexei Cruz notes everybody in a team needs to step up | Photo grabbed from Alexei Cruz’s Facebook

“Play every game like it’s your last.”

This has always been Letran Men’s Volleyball Team Captain Kristoffer Alexei Cruz’s battlecry.

This Information Technology senior describes himself as the type of leader who is fair and idealistic. When conflicts arise within the team he makes sure he steps up.

This is how he is known among his teammates from the veterans down to the neophytes.

“Actually lahat kami nagstep-up para maayos yung problema, minsan dinadaan lang namin sa biruan, pero pag yung tipong seryoso talaga kinakausap ko na ng masinsinan,” the slender spiker said.

With his championship game experience, he believes in the power of positivity inside the court.

He often encourages his team by reminding them not to dwell too much when they commit mistakes and focus instead on how they are going to recover lost points.

“Magpo-project kasi yung [errors] sa laro nila kung masyado nilang iisipin yung mga pagkakamali,” he said.

Just like any other student-athlete, the optimistic Cruz makes sure he balances his academic duties and trainings. Like what other head athletes would say, being a team captain is hard because sacrifices must be made.

“I have to take charge and act as a role model para sa mga bago. I have to exert extra efforts dur-

ing practice. Also, I would have to deal with different kinds of personalities and communicate with them fairly,” he said.

Volleyball is no strange sport for this Manila-bred athlete. He has been a varsity player since his freshman year at Hope Christian High School.

Now in college, he still finds playing volleyball fun and relaxing.

When asked what he usually does to unwind after a tiring day of training, he says he just eats and trains more. The fivefoot-eleven player says he loves eating; he lists fried siopao, pizza, burger, ice cream, and dark chocolate as his favorite foods.

Unbeknown to most people, he is also into track and field but this lanky skipper’s childhood dream was to be part of the Philippine team for international volleyball competitions.

He idolizes Edjet Mabbayad of Far Eastern University. Mabbayad is the Univesity Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 69 Men’s Volleyball Most Valuable Player and Season 70’s Best Scorer and Best Spiker.

In ending, when asked what Letranites can expect from the team, the 21-year old captain quickly and confidently answered: “[They] can expect that we will be doing our best para manalo sa bawat games and maka-akyat ulit sa final four. You can expect us to work and train hard to win.”

SPORTS

dECEMBER 2013 • 12 pages

11

Alas props Sinag Pilipinas to gold Ralphe Lawrenze M. Alarcon

KNIGHT AT HEART: ex-Letran star Kevin Alas grateful to Letran’s contribution to his talent

Former Letran skipper Kevin Louie Alas bannered Sinag Pilipinas in notching the gold at the 27th Southeast Asian Games held in Myanmar last December.

The men’s basketball team, who proved that the country is a basketball powerhouse, had a sluggish start against Singapore sans Alas who was out because of the flu. In the dying minutes of the game, the Filipino ballers copped its first win with Far Eastern University Mac Belo chipping in 16 points, 88-75.

Sinag met Cambodia with a strong start 105-75 in the team’s second outing, still without Alas playing on the international court. Alas finally played in the biennial meet in its third try against host Myanmar, 118-43, where he recorded five markers.

“Bringing the name Pilipinas has bigger pressure, and it has bigger responsibilities. You have to be a role model outside the court also, [because] some young athletes look up to you,” the former Letran star said.

The hot-handed guard made six points

against Thailand, 100-68, and made a quick run to the finals against Malaysia, 84-56.

Alas broke off with 13 markers knotting the 16th gold in the history of the biggest sporting event in Southeast Asia. The gold medal finish of the national team is also its 10th straight since 1977.

Alas averaged 8.0 PPG, 2.0 RPG, 2.5 APG with 60 percent FG shooting. Meanwhile the two-time National Collegiate Athletic Association Mythical Five member missed one of his sole attempt in the arc.

“I wouldn’t be where I am right now, if not for Letran. I started everything with Letran.

Letran taught me to put God and Country above anything else,” Alas said. “[Right now] my immediate plan is to join this year’s PBA Draft [because] this has been my lifelong dream, and besides I am not eligible to join [this coming] NCAA,” he finished.

Sinag waxed the campaign with only 54 percent field shooting against 32 of Malaysia. Gilas cadets also made 29 assists and 28 points in the paint against 12 and 10 of Malaysia respectively.

Fourteen years ago, Louie Alas stirred the national team with a gold feat. That time the younger Alas was only seven years old.

The 21-year old national team cager admitted that he only remembers that his dad was coaching that time but not the championship the country had.

Former pro-player Jong Uichico drew plans for the national team with Belo, Alas, National University Bobby Ray Parks, naturalized player Marcus Douthit, University of Santo Tomas’s Kevin Ferred, Ateneo de Manila’s Kiefer Ravena, University of the East’s Roi Sumang, former Red Lion Garvo Lanete, Adamson University’s Jericho Cruz, NLEX Road Warrior’s mainstay Matt Ganuelas, and former San Sebastian Stag wingman Ronald Pascual.

Knights top NCAA Lawn Tennis anew Rea Antonette Gierran

A runner-up finish from last season’s National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Lawn Tennis made the Letran squad eager to bounce back against the Las Pinas’ based University of Perpetual Help System Dalta who stopped the latter in putting a fivepeat bid.

The Intramuros-based netters reclaimed the spot

with a 2-0 beating the Rectobased San Sebastion Golden Stags in their matchup held at the Rizal Memorial Tennis Center.

Skipper Bryan Saarenas and Adjuthur Moralde defeated Francis Parangan and Arjohn dela Cruz of San Sebastian, 4-6, 6-1, 6-1 giving Letran a sweet taste of a comeback championship in this year’s NCAA. Saarenas

took home the MVP honors, while Letran coach Carlitos Rojo was awarded Coach of the Year.

Letran sweeped all nine games during the eliminations and won the first two matches before losing to San Sebastian forcing a capper.

Archrival San Beda College hosted the said event.

Letran Page joins winning PHL team in intl tiff Rea Antonette Gierran, Anton Tantoco

Colegio de San Juan de Letran’s roster of athletes continues to bring honor to the country as Stacey Tibayan, a member of the PHL 13-and-under team snagged gold in the Annual Thanksgiving Hoopfest in Guam, USA. Members of the National Team stayed in Guam from November 23 to December 2 for the games.

The PHL 13-and-under enjoyed an unblemished record, defeating the Dili-

man Preparatory School (DPS), 54-32, in the last match. Aside from Philippine schools, international teams were also invited to pit for the championship.

“Malalaki sila pero tinalo namin,” said Tibayan.

“Na-surprise ako dahil ang dami naming malalakas na kalaban na tinalo namin,” the young national member added.

Former Knight and Letran Page Coach RJ Guevarra expressed his delight

over his young guard’s success.

“It’s a once in a lifetime experience, para sa isang katulad ko. Hindi ko ineexpect na magkakaroon ako ng chance [mag-coach] ng ganyan kagaling na bata,” Guevarra said.

Guevarra added that he’s privileged to be given the chance to coach players from the PHL team.

“Very proud and very thankful ako kay God,” he concluded.

wordplay rea antonette gierran @reagierran antonette_gierran@yahoo.com

Learn How To Burn People would often say that it’s important to keep an open communication with people you know, that burning bridges is not advisable because you’ll never know which ones you’ll have to cross again. But I say that burning bridges is advisable.

Yes it is okay. It actually has many advantages.

People who give great value to social life might find this idea absurd. We live in such a small world.

Getting to know new people became easier in the advent of social media.

The significance of staying connected with friends is being emphasized.

But as I grew older, I realized that burning bridges is necessary. As we experience new situations, get acquainted with new people, the room for the past gets more and more crowded, eventually you’d have to choose who to let go.

Being a graduating student, I’m slowly realizing the vast world I’ll soon be conquering once I’ve stepped out of the Colegio.

If I want to make the best out of every chances and opportunities that come in to my life, I must always be open to sacrifices.

Burning bridges could be a sacrificial act. It’s like breaking up regardless if it’s a lover or a friend. Being a person who keeps a narrow array of friends, I find it hard to let people go. I’m not the type of person who’d easily let some-

Letran Spikers FROM PAGE 12

tacks. Rhys Valdez, Wyn Bagang, and Harold Reyes all had 10 apiece.

In the women’s action, newbies Macabalitao and Kat Barrinuevo scored 15 and 14, respectively, to tow Letran in a victory over the Lady Cardinals, 25-16, 2518, 24-26, and 25-11.

Mikaela Lopez chipped in with 11 of her own off 10 kills while Jan Carreon had 10.

Letran’s last outing was

one get into my world. It takes time and patience to get past my capricious personality and aura.

Once a person has captured my one hundred percent trust, I give them my all. I leave myself vulnerable. That rarely happens because I’m naturally guarded. So if I shared with you my deepest darkest secrets, consider yourself special and important to me. Burning bridges with you is out of the question.

But I then realized that once you feel that that relationship is becoming destructive. If you feel like sinking, then might as well, end it – that bridge you’ve built is weak by the very core anyway. Why else would it be dragging?

Relationship needs growth. If you’re in a relationship wherein you feel like you’re with a person who stops you from doing what makes you happy then you need to get out it.

It’s not going to be easy.

Every now and then you’ll feel melancholic, you’ll think of all the laughs you shared with each other, the good times you had. I’m not saying that you should give up at the first signs of trouble or be narcissistic, the kind of people who always keep in mind that ‘they deserve better.’

Simply, let me borrow Robert Tew’s words, “Respect yourself enough to walk away from anything that no longer serves you, grows you, or makes you happy.”

against one of the league’s powerhouses, the College of St. Benilde. The Knights were denied a set, 22-25, 12-25, and 20-25.

Gatdula carried the team with his 13 points. No other player scored more than five. The Lady Knights suffered the same fate, 1825, 19-25, and 14-25. Barrinuevo had 10 kills for 12 points.

With those, the Knights ended the season with a 3-6 card while the Lady Knights settled with 1-9.

SPORTS

VOLUME XXXVII • ISSUE 7 • January 2014 • 12 PAGES

FILIPINO PRIDE: Archand Bagsit (in blue) champs among other South East Asian Games competitors in the recent biennial meet | PHOTO GRABBED FROM GMA NEWS

Bagsit grabs gold at 27th SEA Games Former Letran trackster Archand Christian Bagsit affirms that winners don’t wait for chances, they take them.

The 22-year old Bagsit didn’t want the opportunity to snag the gold pass him by again as he ended up only second best in the 2011 South East Asian (SEA) Games in Palembang, Indonesia.

“Nagaaral kasi ako ‘non [2011 SEA Games]. Naisip ko kung ganoon mangyari ulit [studying while training], baka masayang yung

moment na ‘di ko nanaman makuha yung gold medal,” he shared.

He admits difficulties in balancing his studies and athletic trainings because both were physically and emotionally draining. He saw the need to focus on his athletic career to achieve his goal, which is to grab gold for the Philippine team.

“One year talaga hindi ako nag-enroll kung baga ‘finocus’ ko talaga itong SEA Games,” he said.

Fortunately, his sacrifice bore fruit, as he became

Rea Gierran only the second Filipino double-gold medalist at the 27th SEA Games.

The protégé of two-time Olympian Lerma BulauitanGabito rushed forward after immediately receiving the baton from Julius Nierras at the Wunna Theikdi Stadium in Naypyitaw, Burma, outrunning a Thai rep in the last 50m at the 4×400-meter relay.

Together with Isidro del Prado Jr., Nierras, and Edgardo Alejan, they clocked at 03:09.32 to beat Thailand (03:09.81) and Malaysia

NCAA: Letran netters, jins end dismal season Camille Ramos

Letran’s soft netters went home empty-handed as they failed to bring home the crown, struggling early at the opening of the women’s soft tennis singles and doubles division in the 89th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Soft Tennis Tournament held at the Olivarez Sports Complex in Parañaque City.

Letran surrendered to early competitors; to Recto-based San Sebastian College-Recoletos; 4-5 in doubles and 2-5 in the single division and neighbor school Lyceum of the Philippines University; 2-5 in doubles, and 2-5 in singles.

Gladys Cabungcal, Diana Rose Tabudlong, and Princess Jean Naquila were the three players chosen by Coach Carlito Rojo to participate in the event.

Cabungcal, team cap-

JINS STILL WINLESS: Letran jins went home empty-handed in the 89th season of NCAA | PHOTO BY MASCOT FAMANILA

tain of the soft tennis team, blames their lack of experience for their defeat.

“Hindi din po siguro kami ganun ka-focused sa game kaya natalo [kami],” she said.

Naquila, who participated in the singles division, said: “Kaya naman sana namin [manalo] kaso nakulangan kami siguro sa

preparations. Tatlo lang po kami pero lima po pala yung kailangan.”

The soft tennis championship was introduced as a demonstration sport last 2009 in the NCAA, where San Beda College emerged as winners. This year, the College of Saint Benilde preNCAA PAGE 10

(03:15.06).

“Hindi ko ine-expect yun, basta ginawa ko lang best ko. Basta naiisip ko lang talaga kailangan naming makuha yung gold [medal] na yun,” Bagsit, who also ruled the men’s 400m competition, said.

He said that Letran played an important role in helping him achieve his dream.

“Kumbaga yung Letran kasi sila yung nag-challenge kung bakit ako andito ngayon. Kung bakit ako nakakuha ng gold.”

He was advised to concentrate on his studies so as to fulfill his goal which is to graduate, but the call to bring honor to his country was just too strong for Bagsit to ignore, choosing to be a full time athlete.

The Financial Management student now sets his eyes on the Asian Games in Incheon, Korea in September. He sees his success at the SEA Games, as his stepping-stone towards achieving his ultimate dream which is to qualify for the Olympics in 2016.

Letran spikers suffer twin losses at Season 89 It was a gallant fight for the Letran Spikers as they closed out their NCAA 89 stint by snagging a win in their last three assignments.

Just fresh out of the Christmas break, both the Knights and Lady Knights pushed Lyceum to the limit before bowing out and starting the New Year with setbacks. The Knights bounced back from an early 0-2 hole and forced a fifth set but eventually lost, 21-25, 22-25, 25-15, 27-25, and 11-15.

Rudy Gatdula had 15 kills and four blocks to finish with 19 points to lead Letran. Graduating spikers John Sen Rivadenera and Alex Cruz contributed 11 and 10, respectively.

Meanwhile, the Lady Knights still failed to notch their first win with their loss against the Lady Pi-

rates, 25-18, 20-25, 1825, and 19-25.

Skipper Monique Pablo scored 14 points while Angelica Macabalitao had 11.Then finally, Letran came on strong with much determination to score a win just in time before the eliminations ended. The unlucky victim: the Mapua Cardinals.

The Knights needed four sets to finish the Cardinals, 25-20, 24-26, 2521, and 25-17. Letran’s offense thrive with five players scoring double figures, thanks to the effective playmaking by John Sarmiento who recorded a season-high 27 excellent sets.

Gatdula again paced the pack with 17 points while Rivadenera had 15.

Both combined for 28 at-

Letran Spikers PAGE 11