October-November Issue 5 - A.Y. 2014-2015

VOLUME XXXVIII - ISSUE 5 | OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2014 - 16 PAGES

Former rector and president passes away

BY BETTINA BONILLO

The Dominican order led by Fr. Timoner, O.P. blesses the remains of Fr. Thomas before sending him to his final resting place at Sanctuario de Sto. Domingo. | PHOTO BY RYAN MIGUEL RONA

Rev. Fr. Thomas López Francisco, O.P., rector and president of Letran from 1986 to 1989 before be-

Colegio is fifth on Psychomet board; earns 52% rate

BY EUMARIE PENAFUERTE

LETRAN, paving its way to success in the field of Health and Sciences, ranks fifth place at the October 2014 Psychometrician Licensure Examinations as 26 out of 50 Letranites passed grabbing a 52% overall passing rate.

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) administered the first ever Psychometrician Licensure Examination in Manila on October 28-29.

Having such number of examinees, the examination was divided into two batches; morning and the afternoon. PRC announced on November 4 that 1,290 out of 3,283 passed the board exam.

Jet Uy Buenconsejo, one of the researchers in the Research Center and board passer said, “It (board exam) [is] a way of boosting the Psychology society here. It’s for the lower batch to look after they graduate because you have so many opportunities after taking the board exam; more in

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coming Chaplain of the Elementary Department, joined our Creator peacefully on November 16.

The wake was held at the Letran Chapel from November 17 to 20. A funeral mass presided by Rev. Fr.

Rafael Quejada, O.P. at the Sto. Domingo Church preceded his internment at the Sanctuario de Sto. Domingo on November 20.

“Fr. Thom,” as he is fondly called, was also the prior provincial of the Dominican Province of the Philippines from 1980 to 1984.

He was born on October 27, 1926 at Suátao, China to a Peruvian mother and a Filipino father from Baras, Rizal.

Among the seven children, he was one of three who joined the religious order.

Well-loved priest The 88-year old chaplain was fond of the elementary students, whom he dotingly referred to as “the little mosquitoes.”

“When they see Father coming, they would swarm

around him and ask for blessings,” said Education chair Angelita Delos Reyes.

“They used to go in and out of his office. He would always open his box of cookies or chocolates and give the children these things, and the children became so fond of him also,” she recalled.

She also shared that on his birthdays, Fr. Thom would receive food as gifts from the children’s parents.

During these parties, they would sing his favorite song, “Let Me Call You Sweetheart,” which his mother also used to sing to him.

“With music, he doesn’t forget the lyrics of the song.

Even when he tells his stories about his [younger] days,

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Letran bags ‘Best TV Production’ award

BY EUMARIE PENAFUERTE

LETRAN’S Institute of Communication (ICOMM) proved its supremacy in the field of communication after bagging the “Best TV Production” award during the Catholic Mass Media Awards (CMMA) on Oct 29 at the GSIS Theatre in Pasay City.

Letran was chosen among the 858 entries across all categories as the Best TV Production with their entry “Padayon” submitted by the Isipwalat Productions, composed of fourth year AB Communication Arts students namely Charmaine Rosabelle Barretto, Jose Dumlao Jr., Rozela Samantha Lames,

Lance Paolo Lim, Janille Wayne Marquez, Rema Mae Nunes, Kristna Gain Salgados, and Liam Renz Santos.

The documentary film “Padayon” is about the journey of the victims of typhoon Yolanda, the sufferings that they have experienced during and after the typhoon and how they are coping up months after they have been hit by one of the strongest typhoon ever recorded. “Padayon” is a waray term for ‘patuloy’ which is the main message of the documentary.

Santos, the cinematographer of the production said, “Padayon is more than just

Representatives of Isipwalat productions receives the award for the best TV production “Padayon” during the CMMA awards.| PHOTO FROM PAMD

about the Yolanda experience, this documentary focused more on the aftermath of the typhoon. What is happening after and what is being done in order to help the victims. The documentary film also talks about the sentiments of the victims and

iCOMM adds 2 more trophies to collection

BY PAULA RAFOLS TAMAYO

THE INSTITUTE of Communication (iCOMM) once again brought pride and honor to our Colegio in the Araw Values Awards 2014: Let Filipino Values Shine, last November 20 at ABS-CBN’s Dolphy Theater.

The entry “Don’t Just Give a Like”

by CA3B students (Nico Mauricio, Krizzia Balaba, Clarence Sampang, and Christian Inopia) won the grand prize in the category, Respect and Care for Human Life and Dignity and the Rights of All. While the entry “Writer’s Blocked”

also by the students from CA3B (Patrick Reyes, Juno Correa, Katrina Duco, Jose Miguel De Jesus, and Terence Repelente), placed as the first runner up in the category, Commitment to Truth, Honesty, and Integrity.

There were 35 entries from different colleges and universities such as Ateneo de Manila University, De La Salle University, University of Santo Tomas, and Adamson University. 15 entries were

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their message to the people who are ruling over them.”

Santos also shared their experience in doing the said documentary, “Maliit lang ang budget namin since students lang naman kami

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Psych majors win inter-school quiz bee

BY BETTINA BONILLO T h i s year, the quiz bee covered topics on Abnormal Psychology, Psychological Assessment, Theories Roselle Habana, Karl Sumagaysay, and Ellen Canaon of Perbrings home the trophy from quiz bee sponsored by s o n a l i t y, the PSAMH | PHOTO FROM PAMD Mental Hygiene, and THREE Psychology students Counseling Psychology. emerged as champions in In preparation for the the second Psychological event, the team met a week Societies Association on prior to the competition and Mental Health (PSAMH) conducted a half-day review quiz bee held last October session with Letran alumnus 10 at the Philippine Mental and researcher Jet BuenconHealth Association (PMHA) sejo, who also served as the building in Quezon City. mentor for the contest.

Ellen Grace Canaon (fourth According to Buenconsejo, year), Roselle Habana (sec- time constraints made the ond year), and Karl Minriv review less extensive. “Since Sumagaysay (third year) best- kapos kami sa oras, what I did ed participants from 11 other was, kasi nagre-review din ako universities, such as Adam- sa board exam, so iyong mga son University, Bulacan State nire-review ko, I shared with University (BulSU), Centro them,” he said.

Escolar University, Philippine Canaon and Sumagaysay Christian University (PCU), were also part of last year’s San Beda College, and others, winning team, which took out to bring home Letran’s second runners-up Far Eastern Uniwin at the said competition af- versity and BSU with a total of ter disentangling from a three- 105 points. way tie with BulSU and PCU. However, Canaon said she

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FROM PAGE 1 the stories are so smooth and he remembers everything,” Delos Reyes recalled.

Among his peers, Fr. Thom was known for his sense of humor. They were accustomed to his popular expressions “mama mia,” “kamote,” and “to the moon.”

In a mass in honor of Fr. Thom, held at the Letran Chapel on November 18, Rev. Fr. Victor Calvo, O.P. recounted the last time he saw the deceased priest... When he asked how Fr. Thom was doing, the bedridden priest struggled to raise an arm and playfully exclaimed “Arriba!”

“Maraming Letranista na kapag binuksan mo ang puso ay napakakitid kumpara kay Fr. Thom, na hindi Letranista,” Calvo expressed in his homily.

School Nurse Leda Tanutan, RN, who has been looking after Francisco for 18 years, said the former rector remained humorous even during his confinement at the University of Sto. Tomas Hospital from July 2 to October 30.

Furthermore, she recalled Fr. Thom as an intelligent person who liked to do crossword puzzles and read newspapers.

In his homily at Fr. Thom’s funeral mass, Fr. Quejada, the Chaplain of the High School Department and Francisco’s best friend, said the same of Francisco, “He’s smart except in technology,” he bantered, adding that Francisco was a good writer, who would rather

doubted that they could win.

“The quiz bee used the Fifth Edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as their reference in one of the topics in Psychology. Our reference book back when I was still in third year was DSM 4-TR so I had to read and study the whole DSM-5 and take note of the changes and the new disorders that they have included there,” she narrated.

In addition, Sumagaysay admitted he considered BSU a threat during the competition, increasing the pressure on the team. “Parang mahirap i-grasp iyong idea ng confidence. It’s just that, masiyadong maraming puwedeng mangyari ‘di ba?,” he said.

Habana, on the other hand, praised Canaon’s and Sumagaysay’s proficiency on the topics. “It’s also a privilege to be able to work with such humble, intelligent, and promising talents,” she said adding, “it’s really a great pleasure and blessing to make CSJL proud.”

The PSAMH quiz bee was organized by PMHA, a private, non-stock, and non-profit organization that caters not only to the promotion of mental health but also to the prevention of mental disorders.

work on his Underwood typewriter than his laptop.

Quejada said Francisco wanted to set an example to others. In greeting people, he would always remind them to “be good.”

He ended the homily with what many members of the Letran community, especially those who were close to Fr. Thom, were assuring themselves: “I know it is easier said than done. In time, I know I can move on.”

Convent of St. John Lateran priests bring the remains of Fr. Thom to Sanctuario de Sto. Domingo.| PHOTO BY RYAN MIGUEL RONA

Letran-Manaoag successfully launched

BY ALYSSA BIANCA DELFIN

Our Lady of Manaoag College becomed the fourth branch of the Letran system adopting the name CSJL-Manaoag. | PHOTO FROM INTERNET

COLEGIO de San Juan de Letran-Manaoag formally opens its doors to future Letranites as the fourth branch of the Letran system on October 3.

Subsequent to the memorandum of agreement signing last August 8, Letran Manaoag already adopted some changes based on Letran’s traditions. One of which is the mission and vision statements that was already aligned to that of Letran Manila’s. The uniform and the logo were also among the modifications made to gradually standardize the system between the two colleges.

According to Council of Rectors Executive Secretary Romulo Hobo III, Letran Manaoag is planning to pattern the program offerings, syllabus, and the curriculum with that of Letran Manila’s.

Hobo noted that they are taking baby steps towards extending a helping hand to Letran Manaoag to finally establish their name as part of the Letran system, “There will be standardization especially in the program offerings,” said Hobo, adding that there’s also a goal to calibrate the program offerings of the three other Letran institutions depending on the specialty programs they offer, respectively.

Another future plan directed to Letran Manaoag is the sharing of resources.

Hobo said that there is a possibility that the administrators and faculty members from the three other Letran institutions will be circulated to Letran Manaoag.

“There are still a lot of plans that are still to be realized,” Hobo said when asked

for his final words, adding, “but we need to take it one step at a time because we don’t want to miss details.”

Hobo furthered that the successful induction of CSJLManaoag, formerly known as Our Lady of Manaoag College of Pangasinan (OLMC), was the fruit of all hardships by the Council of Rectors under the Dominican Province of the Philippines to integrate the eight Dominican institutions into two main divisions: the University of Santo Tomas (UST) system and the Letran system.

Under the UST system blanket is Angelicum College-Quezon City, Angelicum School-Iloilo, Aquinas University, and its brooding mother institution which is University of Santo Tomas.

On the other hand, the Letran system is composed of the long-known Letran branches from Manila, Bataan, and Calamba and the recently declared Letran Manaoag.

Hobo also explained that OLMC was the only institution not bearing the name ‘Letran’, and it was a move from the council to change such because it would be an initial step towards the formal integration of the four institutions.

Hobo also added that the move to change the name is because of ‘branding purposes.’

Letran Manaoag is scheduled to visit Letran Manila on November 14 for the drafting of its educational system.

The administration of four Letran institutions also had a general assembly and workshop on November 25-26 which specifically tackled about the standardization of their mission and vision statements, organizational structure, and strategic plans.

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VOLUME XXXVIII - ISSUE 5 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2014 - 16 PAGES

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CBAA holds ‘Negosyo Ohtani University visits Letran

Letranista’ anew

BY ALYSSA BIANCA DELFIN

BY BETTINA BONILLO KIOSKS of assorted products and services dotted the Letran grounds as College of Business Administration and Accountancy (CBAA) seniors showcased their business plans for this year’s Negosyo Letranista held on October 2 and 3.

Negosyo Letranista is CBAA’s annual business simulation program founded in 2009 as a call for more responsive business education.

Included in this first phase of implementation are fourth year students under the programs Entrepreneurship, Financial Management (BSBA-FM), Marketing Management (BSBA-MKMGT), and Operations Management. The event served as part of the finals requirement for the students’ Business Plan course.

Prior to the event, the students had to undergo an entire semester of conceptualizing their businesses, with feasibilities, supported by quantitative data, in which they later defended to a panel of examiners. Their approved business plans then permitted each group to set

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from Letran.

“Nakaka-proud lang na we made the Print Public Service Announcement (PSA) to pass the course during the midterms pero we have gone beyond passing the course. Rejections were there; ‘yon pa ang

up their businesses in the location of their choice before bringing them to Negosyo Letranista.

“We’re free to sell any products or offer any kind of services as long as the market demands for it and it’s innovative,” said BSBA-FM major Shalini Sivakumar.

The exhibit was dominated by food ventures, which the students also invested on their own using their personal funds and resources.

According to BSBA-MKMGT major Joerome Santos, they will be graded not only on the quantity of products they sold but also on the overall performance of their business implementations, which includes writing financial statements, completing daily inventories and designing promotional tools.

“The Negosyo Letranista business implementation is a holistic development and training to all Business Administration students in preparation for us to be business managers come a time that we are already in the industry we choose in the near future,” he said. nag-squeeze out ng creative juices namin para makagawa ng award-winning Print PSA,” said Patrick Reyes, one of the awardees.

The Araw Values Awards takes place only every two years. In 2012, Crackerjack Productions, composed of junior communication arts students grabbed an award with their PSA ad “Ama Namin.”

Institute of Communication’s latest trophies| PHOTO FROM PAMD

Representatives from Ohtani University visit Letran Manila to discuss a partnership between the two institutions.| PHOTO FROM PAMD

LETRAN is once again rearing success to bolster its bonds with the Japanese when representatives from Ohtani University visited the Colegio for a possible partnership with the oldest college in the Philippines.

Associate Professor Katsuki Okajima from the Faculty of Human and Social Sciences and Chairman of the International Exchange Committee; Professor Chieko Sakurai from the Faculty of Education and member of the International Exchange Committee; and Yoko Mukoyama, staff of the Commit-

tee were welcomed by Acting Rector Rev. Fr. Orlando Aceron, O.P., Rev. Fr. Napoleon Encarnacion, O.P., Rev. Fr. Juan Ponce O.P., Director of Cultural Affairs Ms. Edna Marco, Director of Public Affairs and Media Development Ms. Jhennie Villar and the adviser of Letran Filipiniana Dance Company (LFDC) Asst. Prof. Randy Lero.

The visit opens the Colegio’s doors further, as it had already established strong ties with the Japanese for three years already, particularly with the Kawachinagano International Friendship Association.

Marco said that this might

give Letran a boost to finally inaugurate more linkages with other countries. “Actually, this is just like testing [the] waters, if it will work or not,” said Marco, adding, “pero I am very hopeful that we can work it out.”

Marco also added that the university is still communicating with them until now, which she considers as a positive sign towards finally granting the partnership.

Marco said that one of the goals of Ohtani University is to establish their connections to other countries on a cultural level. But Marco noted that the Colegio is willing to elevate it to the next level by accepting exchange students.

A rendition of Freddie Aguilar’s “Anak” by the Templar Chorus of Letran and a traditional Filipino dance by the LFDC gave the Japanese a glance of the Colegio’s passion to empower the country’s culture and arts.

Ohtani University was founded in 1966, first as a junior women’s college, then became co-educational in 2006.

No student program for int’l conferences?

BY JOSHUA BANGUILAN STUDENTS participating in international conferences need to sustain their expenses on their own once again.

This year, another pair of senior communication students, was accepted by the International Conference on Socialities and Humanities (ICOSH) and the 5th International Conference on Advance in Social Sciences (ICASS) for their work in their research and thesis papers as recommended by their thesis adviser Dr. Rowena Capulong-Reyes.

However, travel and registration expenses will come from their own pockets and some from the faculty’s research budget.

Elisha Pangilingan, one of the presentors, said that Letran has no program for assisting students presenting their studies internationally.

“Wala daw kasi program for Letran for students na magpe-present sa ibang bansa, So, gastos namin lahat. Nag-iisip din kami [saan] kukuha [ng] money para makapunta, kasi sobrang laking opportunity nga to present our thesis ‘dun,” Pangilingan said.

Sherlene Villanueva, the other member of the group, said sponsorships and financial additions are personally being handed by their adviser. Further, she said that the Letran Research Center (LRC) suggested for both teams to be given cash upon their return since they represented their thesis papers and the institution.

“Nag-request kami pero hindi naman sa ayaw nila, wala lang silang maibibigay. Sabi rin, pagkatapos raw ng conference, pwede raw kaming bayaran ng Letran kasi nagpresent kami ng paper ng may pangalan nila (Letran). Parang wala na kaming makuha, yung ibang mga (professor) na lang namin ang naghahanap ng sponsorship para sa amin. Kanya-kanya ang passport rin kami ngayon. Pero nabigyan kami ng adviser namin ng tig-150 dollars para hindi na kami gaanong gumastos sa passport,” Villanueva said.

The LRC did not deny these claims. Ever since its foundation, the LRC has focused more on research training programs for faculty members.

“The fact na wala talaga kaming maicontribute para sa mga students, that is true. Part of the research culture is to develop faculty members. They should be able to share their experiences and knowledge to students and accommodate their conference expenses for the mean time,” said LRC director Prof. Golda Aira Crisostomo, adding, “Normally, faculty requires students to have research. We can assist them, too. Kakaunti rin lang ang willing tumuloy sa mga conferences.

Therefore, the number of dedicated students will cause us to request a program from higher facilitators.”

4 news PATIKIM: The Main Dish

Filipiniana represents country

BY MYKEE MONTEROLA

BY JOSHUA BANGUILAN TEATRO de Letran’s (TDL) Seventh Laboratory Play Fest drove the attention of the Letran community once again.

This year’s play festival was entitled, Patikim.

Initially for teaser trailer purposes, the idea was set to persuade and spark curiosity within the campus community and also, to act as debut of polished apprentice actors after their series of workshops.

It was held on October 1-4 at the Mabini Hall.

The initial fee was one peso; followed by a random fee at the end of the play.

“It was a success because of the good reviews and feedbacks of the audiences,” said TDL president Christian Santiago.

In every play festival, themes are assigned on each respective group. This year, “Halimuyak” took the psychological genre, drama for “Elysium,” and comedy for “Ako ay may Lobo.”

Halimuyak is a story of self-esteem and self-gain; a psychodrama that presented each of its leading characters’ background through the same characters present on stage and shifting moods without making use of the backstage.

It was followed by Elysium.

Unlike Halimuyak, Elysium flows on a storyline where a stylist witnesses every problem in every customer. Elysium is heavier in drama compared to Halimuyak because of the unexpected twist and

turn of events.

Lastly, Ako ay may Lobo – a comedic play focusing on the realities of mutual friendship. Ako ay may Lobo is a one-act stand per performer throwing scenes with sentiments pertaining to its topic, similar to TDL’s previous play, #RealTalk.

Patikim earned favorable reviews from the audience, “Patikim yung title pero nabusog ako,” said sophomore Journalism student Lady Chelsea Atalin .

“Masasabi ko sa Patikim, the best siya! Sobrang naging memorable sa’kin yung Elysium ‘tsaka yung Ako ay May Lobo kasi makakarelate ka talaga ‘tsaka damang-dama mo yung feelings nung mga character sa play,” said Earla Apora, a Communication freshman.

“Well done, the best I’ve ever seen. I can feel the emotion of the actors and meaning of the script,” commented Digital Arts sophomore Alvin Martinez.

“Di ko akalain na ung piso ko makakarating sa ganung klaseng play. Talagang pinag-isipan bawat istorya.

Lalo na yung Elysium and Ako ay may Lobo,” exclaimed first year Communication student, Jan Pascua.

Halimuyak, starred Emily Pascua, Kristine Riosa, and Cleobell Anesco, was written

by Trisha Delez and directed

by John Alfred Froi Salazar.

While Elysium, starred Godfrey Siochi and Ezra Monique Avendaño, was written by Rotchel Capati and directed

by Christian Santiago. Ako ay may Lobo, on the other hand, starred Karen Juta, Edmesron Almadin, Jenny Belbis, Hazel Calinog, Isabela Pertez, and Benjamin Garcia with conceptualizations from Teatro de Letran’s artistic director, Darel Robles, and Anfernee Ruanto.

LFDC represents the Philippines during the Culture Summit UPI-OIW at Malaysia.| PHOTO FROM JEAN OCAMPO’S FACEBOOK ACCOUNT

THE LETRAN Filipiniana Dance Company (LFDC) represented the Philippines in Indonesia by performing at the “Culture Summit UPI-OIW” in Bandung and at the Mentari International School Jakarta for the 25th anniversary of the Osaka in the World Committee (OIW).

This 25th Anniversary’s project is co-sponsored by OIW and Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI). The program succeeded with performances of traditional music and dance groups from Sri Lanka, Mexico, South Korea, Turkey, China (Inner Mongolia), etc.

Rectors, Deans, and other professionals, who are members of OIW attended the summit to promote peace and strengthen friendship between countries. There are only two members of the OIW here in the Philippines: Remy Baltao of Kalinga and our very own, LFDC adviser, Asst. Prof. Randy Lero. This gave Letranites a chance to once again, showcase the Filipino talent overseas.

Lero and eleven chosen LFDC dancers along with Ms. Edna Marco, Director of the Office of Cultural Affair, Asst. Prof. Ofelia Legaspi of the Letran Center for Intramuros Studies, and Elsie Eranista, Letran Tem-

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demand when you passed.”

Buenconsejo furthered

that the impact of the said examination was to legalize the discipline of Psychology in the country and protect the welfare of the society by regulating the ones who practice the field of Psychology. “Regulated na siya in a way na hindi lahat puwedeng mag-administer ng tests, magbig-

plar Singing Ambassadors conductor, went to Indonesia for a six-day trip from October 31 – November 6.

In the first three days, they stayed at Bandung, Indonesia. The LFDC presented four nonstop dances namely: The “Piliin mo ang Pilipinas” tableau, Abaruray, Karatong - which shows the Mango Festival of the Philippines, and Tinikling.

Through these dances, they ranked first in best performance, followed by Argetina at second place.

Next, they went down to Jakarta to perform and teach the culture and manners of the Filipinos. The LFDC performed seven dances including the national dances, Tinikling and Cariñosa.

“Ang comments nila, we are something different.

Napaka-colorful ng tradition natin. At higit sa lahat, napaka-exciting ng mga sayaw natin… very lively,” said Lero.

Aside from performing, they also witnessed a historical event which was the sole purpose of the summit; the signing of agreement for peace held at the Asian-African Conference Museum at Bandung.

According to Marco, the trip helped them form linkages with those who attended the cultural summit. She said, “It was good. It was very

ay ng Psychotherapy, and give assessments.” He said.

The Psychometrician board exam passers 2014 are: Lana Shereen Agbisit, Kevin Andrade, Ruth Salvea Anotado, Jean Margarette Borcena, Jet Buenconsejo, Eloisa Jean De Guzman, Pilar Anna Lou Del Rosario, Thomas Jefferson Dela Cruz, Christopher Devera, Crissa Joyce Ferrer, Maren Fel Gatmaitan, Jan Paolo Gumogda, Juriel Leoparte, Mark Nicolas Macabulos,

informative. We learned a lot from different cultures; and aside from that, we were able to form linkages which we need so much.”

The students also benefited in this trip in terms of exposure, practicing fluent English, knowledge in travel processes through immigration, and learning the Indonesian Samal dance.

Aside from the many appraisals given by the international audience, the LFDC received an “Anklung Trophy” as a token of appreciation and also a medal of honor from the UPI. Funds for LFDC The LFDC represented the Philippines and Letran in various countries such as Japan and recently, in Indonesia. They have also received invitations from Barcelona and Spain; but unfortunately, the issue is the budget. This has become a hindrance to gaining more opportunities for LFDC as well as Templar to go abroad and represent our school.

When asked about this issue, Lero commented, “Hopefully, time will come na Letran will open their eyes when it comes to that.

Kasi sa ibang [schools] kung i-compare mo, well-funded.”

Although the school does not cover the travel expenses of the students and faculty, Letran shows its support through supplying the LFDC with a new set of costumes and transportation to and from the airport.

“We’re not expecting that they (Letran administration) will be paying for the whole thing. Kahit bigyan lang yung mga bata namin ng kahit konti lang. Yung pang-baon-baon lang nila. That is really appreciated,” said Marco.

Kevin Nicolai More, Alyzza Rica Pera, Remy Rose Poblete, Robert Queddeng, Patrick Angelo Romano, Justine Louie Sanguyo, Kate DanicaTagra, Jenelle Sarah Tipace, Ericka Aira Torres, Aezelle Valderama, Katrina Joy Villanueva and Maica Isabelle Yusi.

The licensure exam was an act of government to regulate and give integrity to the field of Psychology and also to limit the practice in the Philippines.

VOLUME XXXVIII - ISSUE 5 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2014 - 16 PAGES

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Procession pushes through LETRAN

BY ALANIS CRUZ

AMIDST heavy rains, students, professors, non-teaching personnel, and many others from the Letran community attend the annual La Naval Mass and Procession on October 9 and 12, respectively in Sto. Do- Devotees of the Our Lady of La Naval stand firm in their devotion depsite mingo Church, the showers during the procession.| PHOTO BY MASCOT FAMANILA Quezon City.

All students were required to attend organized and more secured, they openly the mass and the procession, as there expressed that last year’s La Naval was were professors assigned in every course better than this year’s.

“Last year, mas maraming pumunta kasi and sections. In the La Naval Mass, there were no classes from 7 in the morning up hindi umuulan noon,” Allan Solis, a third to 12 noon as regular classes resumed in year Advertising student, commented, adding, “yung ngayon, parang naglakad lang the afternoon.

Students have been given consider- tapos ang hina pa ng lapel microphone kaya ation due to the unexpected rainfall and hindi masyado madinig ‘yung speaker.”

The La Naval is celebrated every secminor floods, such as the toleration of those who were late in the procession. ond Sunday on the month of October. It is Despite the dire weather, the community dedicated to the Feast of Our Lady of the managed to finish the march; starting Rosary, La Naval de Manila, at the same from the Sto. Domingo Church compound, time in commemoration of the month of to Dapitan Street, to D. Tuazon Street, to the Holy Rosary. Many schools, including Quezon Avenue, then back to the church. Letran, gather annually to celebrate the However, students noted that, although Holy Eucharist and the procession. this year’s La Naval celebration was more

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unlike other professionals out there na malalaki ang funds. Ang water there is not advisable for drinking since madumi after ng paghagupit ni Yolanda and kung bibili kami ngclean water for drinking, napakamahal. So struggle talaga kami,” he said.

Salgados, the director of the production emphasized that the very reason why they choose this issue for their documentary was to expose the real situation of the victims of the super typhoon and also in some ways, to help them achieve the assistance that they deserve.

“Malaki yung risk, nakakatakot. Pero dun namin natutunan kung paano magtiwala sa sarili. Kasi kung mahal mo talaga yung ginagawa mo, lahat kakayanin mo,” Salgados said, proving that her team was really dedicated in their work and proud of the outcome of their hardships.

ICOMM entries that were finalists in the CMMA include: in the Best Student Public Service AD- Radio:

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“Dalaw” by Abbey DeLa Cruz, “Ling-go” by Gerald Fuentes, “Paunti-unti”

by Jansen Ramos, “Hangin” by Abielle Remo, “Unli Rice” by Rachelle Yumol, and “Salita” by John Rey Reyes and Joshua Penullar.

In Best Public Service Advertisements– TV: “Senyas” by Gewerly Bautista, “Adeling” by Carla Tapia, “Bato” by Jowie Ann Luzon, “For Keeps” by Honey Grace Francisco, and “Times Speat” by John Rey Reyes.

In Best TV Production: “Triple Kayod” by Lorraine Mae Magbuhos, “Sibol” by Ryan Masacupan, “Tahan Na” by Vince Belen, and “Padayon” by Ishna Salgados.

In celebration of the 36th year of promoting the Christian values through the competent and professional use of mass media techniques, CMMA awarded the students, professionals, and organizations for their outstanding works and help in cultivating Filipino character. This year’s theme is “Communication at the service of an authentic culture of encounter.”

6 opinion Does The LANCE lack teeth?

It’s a simple question that is difficult to answer; mainly because the connotations that would entail from the question put the efforts of the Editorial Board and staffers to questionable light.

It has come to the Editorial Board’s attention that a good number of criticisms: The LANCE has recieved is that it had failed to properly report about the faults and mismanagement of the Colegio and that The LANCE has been increasingly soft on the administration of Letran.

Ergo the question: Does The LANCE lack teeth?

The LANCE, by its nature, is an ever evolving platform with new editors, writers, and trainees arriving yearly.

With new staffers on board, new ideas, new views, and new ways of doing things . But through these ever changing shifts, The LANCE has maintained a rigorous standard of quality and excellence; although it is by no means perfect, as much as it tries to be.

The school paper, like its staff, is in a constant state of self-improvement. With such, there are bound to be complaints and suggestions levelled at the paper, and The LANCE Editorial Board guarantees the Letran community that these are taken calmly and seriously. But the criticism, ‘Does The LANCE lack teeth?’ is maligned, unfounded, and unfair.

The LANCE assures that it would continue to advocate truthful, ethical, and responsible journalism, taking full advantage of the rights given to it by the Campus Journalism Act of 1991, but that does not imply nor does it entail that the paper will unjustly ‘bare its teeth’ for every slight and every mismanagement by the Colegio.

DOES, PAGE 7

EDITORIAL BOARD 2014-2015

Ralph Ronald Baniqued News Editor

Kim Daniel Rubinos Editor-in-Chief Jerica Loise Orosco Managing Editor

Kevin Louise Valdez Angelica Pauline Sta. Ana Sports Editor Features Editor

Jan Joseph Mascot Famanila

Photo Section Officer-in-Charge

Alissandrine Margaret Blanquisco Design Editor Marjorie Malabad, Adrian Masacupan Staff

Joshua Banguilan, Bettina Bonillo, Alanis Cruz, Alyssa Delfin, Ronald Espartinez, Risha Fernandez, Marita Gerardino, Mykee Monterola, Eumarie Penafuerte, Kathrina Pineda, Iveth Solevilla, Bryle Suralta, Paula Tamayo, Marilie Tubalinal, Rachael Uycoque, Angelu Zafe Contributors Leslie Boado, Honey Francisco, Ryan Rona, Rhon Velarde, Pauline Gonida Photographers Christelle Ann Cala Cartoonist

Norberto D. Bana III Adviser Published monthly, The LANCE has its editorial staff office at 3F Student Center Building, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Intramuros, Manila.

F O R C O M M E N TS, Q U E STI ONS, a nd LE TTE RS TO TH E E DIT OR Get in touch with us at fb.com/thelanceletran

@TheLANCELetran

letran.thelance@gmail.com

picture of our only passer rather than emphasizing the 100% passing rate??

Please and thank you.

IT HAS been a custom in our culture to prepare our homes when someone’s coming for a visit.

People have a habit of making so-called ‘little’ preparations; doing all sorts of things that could make their houses look good and presentable to the eyes of the guests.

For a few, it’s a norm that serves to hide the unlikable state of their homes.

Not surprisingly, our very own school is part of this culture.

With that ‘university status’ in sight, the school has been doing everything in order to improve its quality, especially at this time when visitors from accrediting bodies are bound to assess the state of our centuries-old institution.

The Colegio urges the students to learn and to fully get to know the vision and mission statements for these guests might ask them. In addition to that, when the visitors are around, wearing of proper uniform and proper civilian attire is stricter than ever.

These visitors also

bring change to the physical appearance of the school as Letran makes our grounds more presentable to them; new trash bins, newly-painted walls and chairs, new-look comfort rooms, hand soaps, tissue rolls, to name just a few.

The Letran administration is doing a fine job on making ways to improve our school for the preying eyes of our visitors.

But come to think of this: what if Letran practices the ‘things’ it has been doing every time there is someone coming to visit on a consistent basis?

Ever wonder what will the Colegio look like if it keeps on improving its facilities from time to time, not just putting in all out efforts only when the need arises? How excellent that would be.

Doing preparations are always good. But making preparations even if no one’s coming for a visit is way better. ***** I noticed the big tarpaulin on the school’s facade congratulating the College of Education (COE) on the 100% passing rate in the Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET).

I have nothing against the LONE passer (congratulations, btw) and the great COE; but why not just put the name and

***** The LANCE wishes to thank Mr. Carlo Miguel Alfonso Francia for his invaluable contribution as the LANCE’s adviser for the last two-and-a-half years. Thank you, sir, for everything you taught us! We wish you all the best!

In lieu of Sir Carlo’s resignation, we welcome back ICOMM’s boss, Mr. Norbeto Bana as LANCE’s adviser. He served as LANCE’s adviser from 2003-2010.

The LANCE also has Midyear Editorial Board changes: News Editor is now Ralph Baniqued; Angelica Sta. Ana is appointed as Sports Editor; and Mascot Famanila is reinstated as the officer-incharge of the photo section.

***** In case some of you may be wondering why The LANCE doesn’t have a literary section just like other campus newspapers, it is because The LANCE publishes a literary portfolio yearly. It showcases the different literary works of the students; and this year’s theme is: EQUALITY. (See front page for more details) To those who don’t know, all submitted entries will be judged and the top three winners per category will receive cash prizes. So there. I am inviting you, Letranites, to join and contribute to the 12th Muralla Literary Portfolio.

VOLUME XXXVIII - ISSUE 5 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2014 - 16 PAGES

Onward to finish line “SINUSUBUKAN pang isalba.”

That’s the first line I thought of when I saw the trending tag on Twitter, #MyGradesInThreeWords.

I know many of us, students, could relate to this especially the seniors. We do want to leave school this April! But then, all the efforts will mean nothing if we did not do our best.

I personally don’t believe that having high grades can put one on top.

“Grades are just numbers,” I thought.

In the four stressful years that I’ve been living my life as a college student, a 75 is a blessing. Ridiculous, but it is. When I experience the hard times and shortcomings that I still do right now, I forget about having high grades, “basta pumasa, okay na.”

Nothing in college is a

joke (unless something or someone, like your professor, gives you the thought that it is). Liters of coffee, bottles of energy drink, and tons of sweets will always be a college student’s best friends. Why? Obviously, to keep themselves up until the next day to meet their deadlines.

When I saw the Institute of Communication (the institute where I belong)’s tagline, “The institute that never sleeps,” I thought it was a figurative phrase. But then, I realized that it is literal. You really never sleep until your tasks end – or will those ever end?

66. This was the most horrible grade that I got ever since I studied. Two digits that broke my Math course’s record when it comes to grades. Funny? Well, everybody in the class was on the same page! We all got grades

Paskong...

CHRISTMAS season is here! The entire Letran community, I assume, looks forward to the anticipated perks of the festive period: bright atmosphere, parties, gifts, crammed wallets, holiday break, Colegio week, and Paskong Arriba -- well, I’m not quite sure about the last two actually.

Both are events awaited by many, if not most, because of the thrill and exciting programs ensued during both the periods. And of course, most students (not the professors, I hope) are looking forward to few suspensions of lectures decided by the teachers themselves.

Customarily, Colegio week is celebrated annually, as commemoration of the community to the foundation of Letran as an academic institution. With that, the school grounds are jam-packed with

colorful booths, exhibits, fun activities and programs.

On the other hand, Paskong Arriba, holds a similar sight but with more colorful lights and Christmas music. However, this year, strange as it may seem, the Colegio week will be held on December, before the Christmas break which will be by then concluded with Paskong Arriba.

I, a senior and graduating (calling all the saints) student, have come to contemplation that this will be the last time I will be attending such event with registration form in my bag.

And I thoughtfully wish that the upcoming Colegio weekPaskong Arriba would be great, if not the best.

For the past three years, I’ve witnessed exciting and enjoyable Paskong Arriba and tagging it as one of my highlights in college – but that’s me. I still hear several

opinion

like this, some even lower.

Depressing, yes it was. But it was more of a challenge and a warning that I should fix myself to walk the ramp in PICC. Sinusubukan pang isalba, indeed.

I’ll never get a grade lower than 75, I said. But I have witnessed that having this kind of a horrible grade is possible. I am not saying this to scare anyone or because I am proud of having this, but because I want to boost my batch-mates’ faith that we will cross this “river of deadlines” on time.

I am not only referring to my fellow iCOMM students, but to all the seniors out there who wish to end their years of studying this 2015.

Hold on! We’ve finished our theses, reports, documentaries, presentations, performances, and a lot more. There is just one big block to break on our way to PICC. Have faith, batch 2015! ***** I express my “twothumbs up” to the ITC, headed by Mr. Dzune Lao, for a job well done in improving the enrollment process. Hats off, people!

mumbled complaints that such event is awful and did not meet their expectations.

Some rather choose to attend other events such as UST’s Paskuhan, or have their own party elsewhere.

Then, there were few professors who didn’t follow the prescribed time for suspension of classes and chose to battle the extreme noise from the ground over their lectures.

Also, as despicable as it seemed, the students were not allowed to leave the Colegio’s premises during the event.

It is very well understood that the whole point of it was to make the students participate in the program, but the scheme actually backfired as several tantrums, cursing under breaths and bored faces encompassed along the campus, rendering it pointless and anchor tied to the occasion.

I believe that it is unnecessary to cage people inside the Colegio like animals for the purpose of making it look like an extremely people-studded festival, or for any other reason.

The true “spirit” of having such fetes is not acquired by absurdly enforcing people to attend – but to prove that

k NIGHT s

7 peak

CAMILLE DATOR PAMD? Saan yun? Ano yun?

May ganoon ba?

These are the common questions that students ask when they hear “PAMD.” And the two most common answers to those questions are: “Hindi ko alam” and “Doon sa pinagawaan mo ng ID.” But actually, Public Affairs and Media Development (PAMD) has a bigger role in our school besides making our IDs. PAMD is a combination of two offices. First is the Public Affairs which concerns about the promotions and advertising of Letran. It is also in charge with the updating and connections with the alumni. Second is the Media Development wherein it is in charge with the documentation and recording of different events related to the school. All of the advertisement and publicity that you can see outside the school is made/organized by the office like television, radio advertisement, tarpaulin, etc.

Students may not be familiar with PAMD but if we will look closer we can see

that PAMD can help us a lot in our school. They are the one who updates us through social media if there is a class suspension, special activities in the Colegio and others.

PAMD can also be one of the ways for your voice to be heard. The Multimedia Development helps the school in documenting the important events inside and outside the facilities of the school.

To expand the coverage of the PAMD, they envision to offer short-term courses related to Adobe. Through the short-term courses that they will offer, they want to enhance the knowledge of the students and to produce professionals that can work hand in hand with the biggest media company in our country. This short term courses will be open to all especially to young professionals.

Let’s get to know more about our school and be aware on the things that are happening around our campus.

Camille Dator is a junior Financial Management student.

The views and opinions written above do not reflect that of The LANCE’s.

We are inviting you, Letranites, to submit your articles about life and anything under the sun.

Send your articles to The LANCE office, third floor Student Center building or email them to letran.thelance@gmail.com

DOES FROM PAGE 6

And that does not mean the paper is going soft nor does it imply The LANCE ‘lack teeth.’ Presenting the facts and nothing but the facts is the paper’s only job and as startling as it might sound, the facts points to Letran doing a fairly decent job. Truthfully speaking, the Colegio has been making leaps and bounds at improving the facilities and its standards; and that deserves applause.

But going back to the question at hand: Does The LANCE lack teeth? Arguably, yes, but, only if you subscribe to the notion that a campus newspaper should always be antagonistic towards any form of higher power. And if, and only if, the time does come that The LANCE need to show its teeth, then let’s just say a smile is just as scary.

Paskong Arriba is an event worth staying to with whole heart. And eventually, it will meet the student’s interest halfway when it happens.

Besides, it is the student’s

council task to produce upright activities, program to deem it as a successful Paskong Arriba.

So, no pressure – but LSC, we are counting on you!

The Famous Underground River

The pride of Puerto Princesa, the Subterranean River (or Underground River), is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one was christened as one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature.

The majestic 8.2-kilometer river, is said to be the longest navigable underground river in the world (although, visitors, do take note that a great portion of the river is barred from tourists). The river flows under the great St. Paul mountain range straight into South China Sea. According to official sources, the Underground River, as well as the surronding park area contains more than 800 plant species, which includes 300 types of trees, 195 avian species, 30 species of mammals, 19 reptiles, and eight bat species.

The Extreme Adventure Opportunities Fancy yourself as the daredevil type? Then try on Puerto Princessa’s many outdoor activities. One such is the Ugong Rock Adventures, found at Brgy. Tagabinet. Ugong Rock Adventures offer the brave and the bold the chance to enjoy a much more vertical experience. Climbing up through steep and rocky slopes, passing through narrow caves and passages, and plunging down the fastest zipline in the country, Ugong Rock is a treasure trove of fun activities.... that is if you’re brave enough.

Preserving Life and Livelihood

The Palawan Wildlife Rescue and Conservation Center also known as the Crocodile Farm serves two purposes.

First, to give tourists a chance to interact with endangered and sometime dangerous animals. Second, to ensure the safety and preservation of said animals. Making money while simultaneously protecting their source of income, this perfectly illustrates how everything and everyone in Palawan do business. Yes, you could say that commercializing environment resources may leave a bitter taste in your mouth but that’s not the case here in Puerto Princesa. The government has enacted multiple safe guards to ensure the preservation of the natural beauty of the island.

Exploring Puerto Princesa

BY KEVIN LOUISE VALDEZ

PUERTO PRINCESA, the heart of Palawan, the aptly named ‘city in a forest’ is one city the Philippines can truly take pride in. Officially the cleanest and greenest city in the country, Puerto Princesa presents a gold standard in how the country should handle tourism and preservation of our natural resources. Truly, the city with its sweeping picturesque landscapes, soaring mountain ridges, and pearl white beaches is paradise given form. Don’t believe me?

Well then, maybe this might change your mind. Behold the wonders of Puerto Princesa!

A Modern City Connected with Nature

Puerto Princessa is not just home to beautiful beaches and majestic mountain vistas, it is also a busling hub of people still connected to their past and culture. Take for instance Puerto Princesa’s Batak Cultural Village; it’s a model of the communities where the Batak mountain people, one of Palawan’s oldest indigenous groups, live. The village has a gallery complete with historical exhibits and a souvenir shop where Batak handicrafts are sold.

Also take a gander at the Sta. Monica Ranch or most commonly known as Mitra Ranch. What was basically a family owned ranch of cows and horses has become a must-see attraction for the city as it emcompases a beautiful view of the sea, the mountains, and the city. Mitra Ranch, being a hundred feet above the rest of the city, gives tourists the best seats in the house for viewing Puerto Princesa. And if at the end of the day you feel the mighty need to fill your belly with the best and the weirdest cuisine the island has to offer then head on down to the ever popular Kinabuchs Grill, where curious visitors could sample the savory and the exotic. Tamilok (shipworm) tempura anyone? Or how about some Crocodile sisig?

A Beach to Remember

One of the biggest draws of Puerto Princesa is the many beautiful island beaches that surround it. Take the famous Honda Bay for instance. For a reasonable cost, boats ferry tourists to nearby islands where they can enjoy picnics, snorkeling, and some swimming.

Indeed, while many know Boracay as the beach capital of the Philippines, Puerto Princesa is no slouch and is a serious contender for the time. Although there is a plus for being less known. Puerto Princessa has more secluded and less commercial beaches than that of Boracay.

PHOTOS FROM INTERNET

10 FEATURES SOME FILMS are definitely made to be watched alone—in your couch wearing your favorite pajamas, with home-made popcorn in hand and a can of Coke in the other. But there are also films better enjoyed with company, especially with your friends. A good idea of fun time with your friends isn’t just always going to the mall, or partying all night, or getting drunk. Sometimes, enjoying a cinematic

masterpiece with your friends is the perfect recipe for a funfilled night.

With that being said, here are three of the best coming-of-age classic films you should definitely see with your ‘barkada.’ You can thank me later.

t c e f r e p e th ’ a d a k r a ‘B flicks

The Breakfast Club (Hughes, 1985) When five high school students with different stereotypes were forced to spend a whole day together because of detention, they realized they have a lot more in common than they thought. And that people in high school, no matter how everyone seems completely different from each other, still has some things in common.

THANK YOU (for the 15 years)

NARUTO!

BY IVETH SOLEVILLA

WARNING! This article contains spoilers. Read at your own discretion.

The journey of the energetic, mischievous, orangeclad ninja, Naruto ended after 15 years. “Naruto” dropped its final curtain last November 10 with a

full colored final chapter.

The manga has a whopping 70 volumes, covering 700 chapters. On the other hand, the anime version, Naruto Shippuden is still ongoing with 385 episodes.

Naruto started in 1997 as a one-shot story, and later on began serialization in 1999.

It cannot be denied that Naruto had become cultural phenomenon not only in

This insightful but very funny masterpiece of John Hughes continues to be one of the most popular teen films up to this day, and when you finally decide to see it, you will understand why.

Reality Bites (Stiller, 1993) FE This film filled U REA ZA L with teen-draE G N A BY ma, romance, and slight comedy depicts the story of four recent college graduates who discover how difficult it really is to find a decent job and true love after finishing college. Watching this film is like getting slapped in the face by reality— and in that experience, it is definitely better to be with your friends.

its home country Japan but even here in our country and many others. Naruto is one of the all-time most popular anime series in history.

Needless to say, the finale of Naruto signifies the end of a great manga as well as the end of a 15 year epic. But of course, even though the adventures of Naruto ended, the fandom will never die.

“Naruto” is a story of a boy named Uzumaki Naruto, who dreams of becoming the best ninja in his village. Many hated him due to the fact that he is the Jinchuuriki (container) of the nine-tailed fox demon that wreaked havoc in the village of Konoha. And because of that, Naruto desires to be acknowledged by many by becoming a H o k a g e .

Masashi Kishi-

Clueless (Heckerling, 1995) If you and your friends moto ended Naruto with a high note. After the longawaited final showdown between Naruto and Sasuke, they parted with their hands forming a seal of reconciliation. The final chapter is set roughly a decade after the their climactic battle, wherein the cast was paired-off, happily married with children of their own.

“Romance” in Naruto has left some fans dissatisfied mainly because of the mixed messages and not-so-subtle hints given throughout the series as to who ends up with whom. With Kishimoto tying up romanictic loose ends, Naruto ended up with Hinata and have two kids, Bolt and Himawari. Similarly, the pair o f

prefer a satirical comedy that features the lives of ultra-rich teenagers in Beverly Hills high school, this Heckerling’s masterpiece from 1995 is perfect for you. Once dubbed as the most compelling movie about teenagers, you will appreciate this film more when you watch it with your friends, especially that it boasts a lot explosively funny moments that will surely make you and your buddies laugh so hard, you’d think your ribs might fall off.

Sakura and Sasuke, eventually got hitched and even had aa daughter named “Sarada” which is translated as Salad.

So what’s next for Naruto?

Rumor has it that the series will be returning with a mini sequel series after Naruto Shippuden. Part 3 will be focused on the next generation of Shinobi in which Bolt is the speculated protagonist. However, there is still the latest Naruto movie to be shown this December entitled “The Last: Naruto the Movie.” Kishimoto may have dropped his pen but apparently the fans are still hungry for a clearer resolution. The series may have ended, but Naruto will live on forever.

PHOTOS FROM INTERNET

FEATURES 11 5 BEST SOCIAL APPS OF 2014

VOLUME XXXVIII - ISSUE 5 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2014 - 16 PAGES IN AN ERA where a bottle of mineral water can cost more than a PC rental, 2014 had recently bestowed upon us with yet another batch of social applications, revolutionizing the fine line between consumers and techie geeks bit by bit. And now that another year comes t o a close, we’re here to dish out the bestf r o m the rest.

1.) V i n e Perhaps the top dog of them all, this videosharing game changer shook the world with its 6-second looping clips in just a matter of months after its official release in June 2012. Apart from its increasing features, notable trends such as the phrase “Do it for the Vine” and its surplus of Internet stars

2.) S n a p c h a t Everything has an expiration date nowadays, just like these selfdestructing photos and videos. First released in 2012, Snapchat is a visual chat app that allows users to set a viewing per i o d for their ‘Snaps’ a n d even be notified in case the receiver takes a screenshot.

The plus? It has captions.

Availability: iOS/Android

BIG

WHAT happens when an inflatable robot made for nursing is dressed with armor and programmed with skills to combat and battle enemies without losing his caring nature?

And what if that robot happens to resemble the Michelin Man, or if you’re not familiar, sim-

3.)

Whisper Whether it’s that terrible thing you did in fourth grade or an unpopular guilty pleasure, this photobased online confessional grants you the ability to anonymously share secrets in the most aesthetic way possible.

Now set yourself free with that wide array of fonts and a customizable background!

Availability: iOS/Android

proves that they’re here to stay.

Availability: iOS/Android/Windows Phone

ply imagine a huge, walking fluffy marshmallow with his round features, that was originally built for him to seem more approachable to his patients and make him irresistible and huggable.

After Disney took over the world with Frozen, they present another film that will surely capture the hearts of children and those children at heart.

Big Hero 6 is set in the not-so-distant futur-

PHOTOS FROM INTERNET

4.) Yik Yak With the Internet as opinion’s number one

HERO HEART

BY MARITA KARINA GERARDINO

istic and fictional city of San Fransokyo, where brothers Tadashi and Hiro Hamada lives with their Aunt Cass, who took them after their parents died, (although it was not detailed in the film their cause of death.) Both are very talented and smart as Tadashi and Hiro both shares the same intelligence and passion when it comes to robots. Tadashi is enrolled in a university, which he calls “nerd school”, studying robotics, while Hiro finished high school even before he hits puberty, which proves that he is a child prodigy.

Tadashi then pursues Hiro to put his brain to good use, instead of joining bot fighting. Tadashi insists that Hiro should enter the same college that he goes to.

When Tadashi brings his brother to his “nerd school,” Hiro gets to meet Tadashi’s eccentric friends, who are also quite the science and technology geek.

Baymax is Tadashi’s most cherished creation (the hug-

gable nurse robot), and his mentor, Professor Robert Callaghan, who also motivated Hiro to enter the university and gets a personal invitation to join the school’s annual science exhibition. But after the exhibition, an unfortunate event takes place that apparently killed his brother and Callaghan. This causes Hiro to lose his interest in joining the university, but leads him soon enough to again meet the innocent yet surprisingly funny robot, Baymax.

With the help of Tadashi’s friends, who soon becomes his own, they team up forming the titular group: the ‘Big Hero 6’, they take on the masked man and uncover his identity that might have been linked to Tadashi’s death. Baymax then undergoes upgrades where Hiro develops suits and armors not only for Baymax but also for his friends.

Big Hero 6 which comprises of: the tough and athletic girl, Go-Go Tomago; Wasabi, the neat freak that dwells inside the built of a body builder; Fred, the easy-go-luck comic book geek; and Honey Lemon,

favorite public playground, this locationaware bulletin board lets you anonymously post anything and everything to share with the 500 people nearest to you. In layman’s terms, it’s almost like a local Omegle.

Availability: iOS/Android

5.) P i n t e r e s t From its homely white interface to its productivity-powered posts, Pinterest is your scrapbook launched into cyberspace. Unleash the inner OCD in you as you get to harness those organizing skills by pinning ideas to your collections called ‘boards’.

Availability: iOS /Android/Windows Phone

BY RISHA FERNANDEZ

a girl so cleverly good in chemistry; and alongside is Baymax with Hiro.

The movie not only teaches children the values of friendship and family but also helps them see the importance of lessons about “seeing things in a different perspective.” Not only is the film was packed with action, it also takes audiences to heart-warming scenes, especially when Hiro realizes his brother’s hardwork on building Baymax, the robot’s importance, and Tadashi’s unending nature to care for Hiro, and the people around him.

The film was also packed with unbelievable animation, which could be greatly appreciated when seen in 3D. The film was loosely based on a Marvel comic under the same name, which the film also pays tribute.

Same with Marvel movies, it comes with Easter eggs that should be found with patience of staying after the lights went on and the credits will start to roll.

Overall, Big Hero 6 is a lighthearted film filled with action, and comedy which will not fail to put a smile on your face even after the credits roll, (but mostly it’s because of Baymax). Perfect for the whole family to enjoy, with your friends and loved ones, or even with just the company of yourself.

12 features

GRAPHOLOGY: A look into you and your handwriting

Death is not the last word for life

BY RISHA FERNANDEZ We’ve all encountered this— seeing a block of words written by a hand blessed with such atrocious penmanship they practically look like squiggles, or some piece of text made so neat and fancy that you had to think twice if it really came out from a printer. And in these moments you just ask yourself: “Why?” Thanks to graphology, your problem might just be solved!

Defined as “a technique of personality analysis through examination of handwriting,” graphology offers the ability to reveal what makes someone tick through their handwriting. Expert graphologists may also determine not only the writer’s mood and intelligence, but also their illnesses. So tap your inner Sherlock because here are the top signs to look out for: SIZE: Those who write with large letters usually have big personalities, while small letters are used by focused yet shy types. Average sized letters suggest an adaptive quality in persons.

SLANT: Writing that leans to the left is a sign of a person with introverted qualities. Writing that leans to the right, on the other hand, connotes openness to the world, like a Beowulf ready to behead a Grendel. Writing without a slant means that “THIS is not a love story.

This is a story about love.”

Upfront, the narrator already gave this warning.

Kind of how it always is: things aren’t always what they seem and unpredictability is always to be expected. Always. But, at first, expect to hate this movie because people will hate honest and this is by far the most truthful one, yet.

It’s not your cheesy cliché romantic comedy movie.

In this movie, Tom (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) met Summer (Zooey Deschanel) in a, like one song goes, hopeless place – in their workplace, a greeting card company; and from that day on he fell for her and their story began and ended in a span of 500, hence the title.

Tom and Summer have a lot of things in common – taste in music, movies, and show – so, it all seems so perfect but the thing that became a barrier is their contradicting views on love. Though

the person is a logical badass.

SHAPE: Rounded letters represent the creative and artistic, compared to the users of pointed letters which are usually aggressive and curious.

Connected letters are written by systematic persons.

PRESSURE: Heavy pressure reflects the writer’s serious mood and passion, especially if it’s even heavier.

Light pressure shows sensitivity and lack of enthusiasm.

Those writing under normal pressure show a person with great self-control. Way to go!

SPEED: Slow writers are more methodical and pay attention to details, while fast writers are impatient and pay more attention to the big picture.

BONUS: Beware of the infamous hallmark by passive aggressive liars consciousness (and definitely burdened) toward their guilt: the Felon’s Claw. This handwriting characteristic is seen when a straight down-stroke goes immediately into a claw shape, like an angular, upside-down “U.” This trait is typically associated with people who were made to feel inferior during their younger years and thus, develops feelings of bitterness to fuel a desire for revenge.

So, did you unlock the secrets hidden in your seatmate’s scrawls now? Good luck!

both their parents are divorced, Tom turned out to be a hopeless romantic type of guy, one who believes in destiny, flowers, soulmates, holding hands – you get the point – while Summer, is a non-believer of love.

She believes it’s fantasy.

The story began with Tom and Summer breaking up. In the next scenes, Tom figures out where it went wrong. One minute they’re so in love, the next it’s all over. The following days after their meeting, Tom and Summer grew closer together but she made it clear to Tom that she is not looking for anything serious.

They went out for several months and things seemed to be going so well until they watched a film about true love and Summer seemed to question everything – what are they doing? Before, Tom was pretty confident that he will be able to change Summer’s outlook on love – she let her walls down

BY MARITA KARINA GERARDINO

THE MOST literal picture that could describe the cycle of life can be seen inside a hospital; where life is welcomed through the wails of babies being born every minute up to the grieving sounds of families whose loved ones passed on. The cycle of life continues each day but stops, physically, for those who will enter another journey, spiritually, as souls reaching towards eternal peace.

In this time, the people who will be left behind will face and feel the emotions of grief, sadness, and rejection as the bitter truth of losing the people that they love and knew deeply will no longer be within hands reach, or hear their voices as they call their names.

Through these moments, faith is the strongest remedy to mend the sadness that the heart will feel as knowing that the souls of the departed would finally find peace within the hands of God. “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to

and done, and said things to Tom. They called it quits and months later, something very unexpected happened.

This made Tom question if all they’ve been through is nothing for her.

But, truthfullythat’s how it is sometimes. No matter how much time and all effort we spend – there are just some things that you cannot force and are not meant to be. This is not a love story; this is a story about love – about how love can fail, about how sometimes we think one thing is considered love and about how it can be contingent. (500) Days of Summer will have you put the parts piece by piece just like Tom did. Join him in the roller coaster journey that is love.

BY KATHRINA PINEDA

laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing.” -Ecclesiastes 3:1-22 Pope Francis said in his Angelus address last November 2, which was All Souls Day, that we should continue to pray for the souls of the forgotten and those who especially died in faith and in protecting other people through sacrificing their own lives. As the people who are left to live life longer should take the time to remember them in prayers as the Holy Father said that our prayers are “the best spiritual help we can give to their souls, especially those who are most abandoned.”

The Holy Father said that offering prayers to the deceased have always been the practice of the Church, that “the foundation of prayer for the intercession of souls is found in the communion of the Mystical Body,” in which he said that one of the evident traditions in remembering the dead could be witnessed through the Eucharistic Celebration.

Aside from prayers offered to remember our loved ones, Pope Fran-

cis also expressed that through our actions for the departed, such as tending their graves, remembering them through our memories of their life, gives new meaning to hope as we learn “in the certainty that death is not the last word.”

As we move forward to fulfill our life’s purpose knowing that life doesn’t entirely end after death, one shouldn’t also forget to remember the departed, even through the simplest ways we could afford, their peace should at least be included in our prayers even if it is not November and the Feast of All Souls, as a sign of our unending love and respect that they could receive, even from their eternal lives with God. Wherein “death is not a barrier that separates us from Our Loved Ones in Christ” but connects us through our faith in God. In the Bible, it was said that, “For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” -Romans 8:38-39

(500) Days of Summer

VOLUME XXXVIII - ISSUE 5 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2014 - 16 PAGES

Moving forward

sports 13

Men’s basketball stats rundown

BY ANGELICA STA. ANA

BY ANGELICA STA. ANA AND BRYLE SURALTA LETRAN bids goodbye to two of their most versatile forwards Jamil Gabawan and Reneford Ruaya, as this season marks their final stint in collegiate basketball.

These two veterans played such important roles for the team. Ruaya and Gabawan provided the spark when Letran needed them, especially at the defensive end. They primarily led the undersized frontline of the Knights this season, upon the ab- PHOTO BY RYAN MIGUEL RONA sence of former Letran star cager and Season line-up will even get small.

89 Most Valuable Player, Ray- Jamil believe though that mond Almazan.

Letran will still be as comEven though the Muralla- petitive as they can be, based dribblers failed to “maraminamansigurongget a spot in the Final Four, magigingbagongbig man, at these two bigs certainly matutulungannamansilanghad a tremendous farewell mgabeteranongsinaKevin season. Together, they have Racal at Mark Cruz.” contributed 12.9 points, Both Jamil and Ford are 11.5 rebounds and 2.5 as- currently playing in the sists per game this season Philippine Basketball Asfor the Knights. sociation Developmental These Operation Manage- League and hoping to step ment juniors will always be up into the professional considered one of Letran’s scene in the near future. favourites on the court. Their Ruaya also aspires to fintenacious rebounding togeth- ish his studies. er with their fearless drives The Letran community to the basket just made the will never forget what RuaLetran community respect ya and Gabawan brought to them even more. The veteran the team and to the school. leadership that they displayed It may be time to say goodduring crucial times was in- bye but they will forever live deed immeasurable. on in the hearts of many LeUpon their departure, tranites everywhere. the already undersized

AFTER reaching the finale of the fierce competition of school pride in the 90th season of the NCAA men’s basketball, the statistics proved some teams mighty and some frail in totality.

This season’s runnerup, the Arellano University Chiefs, led when it comes to the number of points made, with a total of 1,368 points in 16 games played (85.5 on average). 200 of which, contributed by their prized Filipino-American rookie, Dioncee Holts. On the other hand, despite of the heroics of Mark Cruz and Kevin Racal in terms of scoring, still, the Knights found themselves at the bottom of all the teams, with the least number of points scored, 1,050 (65.6 on average).

The Arellano Chiefs’ field goal percentage was hailed the best of all as well, making 540 out of 1,211 attempts (75.7%) allthroughout the season. In contrary, the Knights poorly exhibited a 61.8% field goal percentage, having only made 351 out of their 989 attempts to the basket, which made them the worst in terms of this statistic.

Meanwhile, the University of Perpetual Help System Dalta Altas ruled over the rainbow country, primarily due to its three outside-gunners: Juneric Baloria, Harold Arboleda and the reigning Most Valuable Player, Earl Thompson. The Altas killed

127 out of their 386 attempts, putting up a 24.1% three-point shooting percentage, tallied the best in the tournament. The Mapua Cardinals experienced a different fate though as the Intramuros-based squad only made 35 treys out of 161 attempts competition-long.

The Cardinals’ 10.1% threepoint shooting percentage, placed them in the far-end.

The reigning champions, San Beda College, proved their supremity on conquering the boards with a total of 789. The Lions, headed by their ever reliable bigs, Olaide Adeogun and Arthur Dela Cruz, averaged 46.4 in this category. The Cardinals gathered the least number of rebounds at 581, averaging 36.3 per game, the tournament-worst.

In terms of assists, the Arellano Chiefs was ranked the highest, after dishing 299 passes (18.7 on average). 90 of which is contributed by their rising spitfire guard, Jiovani Jalalon, who averaged six assists per game, good enough to put him on the top spot of the leader board in assists. Apparently, the Emilio Aguinaldo College Generals averaged the least in the zone of passing, 12.9. The ballers from Paco only handed out 233 assists on their 18 games.

The Legarda-based Chiefs reigned dominant again amongst all the other teams, this time in terms of snatching the ball, led by Jalalon

once more, who was acclaimed as the league leader for steals too, averaging 2.9 steals per game. Arellano nicked a sum of 129 steals overall (8.1 on average).

On the bottom is the Generals, who displayed an incredibly low average of 4.1, having snatched the ball only 73 times in 18 games.

Combined efforts from the Altas on denying possible baskets payed off upon being addressed as league’s best in terms of blocks, sufficing 69 jams off their opponents, with an average of 4.3 swats per game.

However, the undersized Mapua squad provided the weakest protection of the ring, and had only 19 blocks on their 16 games played (1.2 on average).

Lyceum Pirates committed the most number of turnovers, tallied at 329 in totality, averaged as 20.6 per game. Hence, they should follow the footsteps of Perpetual Help when it comes to minimizing their turnovers as the ballers from Las Pinas had the least number of mistakes, during this season, with an average of 16.4 (263 overall).

Many may say that statistics are just numbers. However, digging deeply and pondering on such, may aid a team to see the vulnerabilities of its opponents and move its way to success.

Truly, you cannot underestimate the value of digits.

The Table Tennis Trailblazer

BY ANGELICA STA. ANA

THE LETRAN Table Tennis Team may have ended its stint in the 90th Season of the National Collegiate Athletic Association early, but restassured that the team was routing the right path all-throughout the competition, primarily due to its team captain, Loren Erika Mendiola.

Influenced by her brother, uncle, and even her neighbors, this fourth year Financial Management student started gripping a table tennis paddle during first grade in elementary. “Parang yung buong street kasi namin sa Davao, lahat nagpi-pingpong,” she reminisced.

“Kaikay,” as what she is fondly called by many, learned the value of time management at a very young age. She was instantly immersed into the idea of travelling far and competing, even as her school duties are on-going. That is why, she have long-understood and inculcated discipline within herself.

The 21-year old Davao native may possess a sweet and light vibe upon being encountered along the hallways of Letran, but she sure takes her role as the leader of the pack and being the master of her craft seriously.

Being the captain of the team, Mendiola tries to be as firm as she could be with her teammates. She frankly voices out what she thinks is for the betterment of the team. “Hindi ako natatakot o nahihiyang pagsabihan sila kapag may mali sa ginagawa nila,” she said.

Mendiola also sets rules and goals, not only for herself, but for the whole team as well. She shared, “ayaw kong may umiinom kapag season namin, ayaw ko sa mga nale-late kapag training, gusto ko bago mag-training, ready lahat matuto.”

Thus, Loren admitted that a lot of pressure definitely weighs on her shoulders. As the team captain, she always strives to help put the burden of her teammates aside, especially the rookies, by showing them how to handle the pressure. In addition to that, she also seeks to bring out the best in everyone.

Along with that, she confessed that one of biggest challenges of being the team captain is how she needs to be strong not only for herself, but for the welfare of the team too. “Kailangan ko ipakita sa kanila na kaya naming manalo, kailangan kong magpakatatag para sa mga teammates ko kasi sa akin sila kumukuha ng lakas.”

Despite not bringing home the championship trophy, still, Loren thinks that the team achieved success within the tour-

nament. “For me kasi, hindi naman 100% yung gold medal masasabi mong success eh. Ang tagumpay kasi is yun bang nagawa mo yung dapat mong gawin, ma-perform mo nang maayos at binigay mo lahat,” she said.

And as to the advice she could give the young and aspiring athletes, Mendiola has only this to say, “Love the game, gawin mo siyang part ng buhay mo. At maging open yung mind sa mga sinasabi ng mas magaling.”

Regardless of failing to bring the title back to Intramuros on her final year, Mendiola is still very much grateful for the opportunity given to her by Letran during her four years of stay.

Upon her departure, all she wanted to be remembered by the Letran community is by how she was as a team captain and her relentless love for the team and the Athletics Department. For her, that is way more than enough.

Loren is just one of the concrete proofs that a leader needs no title. Leadership rely on the will and passion to continuously strive for greatness, and the urge to selflessly inspire others.

14 SPORTS

PBA legend and former Letran cager collapses in exhibition game

Bedynasty

BY BRYLE SURALTA

BY RONALD JOHN ESPARTINEZ PHILIPPINE Basketball Association (PBA) Hallof-Famer and former Letran star player Avelino “Samboy” Lim also known as the “Skywalker” is currently under the state of coma after an unexpected incident where he suddenly collapsed during the PBA Legends’ exhibition game last November 28 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.

Retired PBA player Nelson Aytono, said that Lim collapsed while stretching after being pulled out of the game. He was immediately rushed to Medical City, and the game was cancelled after the incident.

The PBA Legend is still inside the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) but his

cardiac status and vital signs are getting better.

Meanwhile, PBA players expressed their shock and support to the PBA Legend.

James Yap said that Samboy was the one who made him decide to be serious in basketball and he is very saddened about the incident.

“Siyempre nalungkot ako, dahil ‘yun nga e, idol ko ‘yun. Talagang kinilabutan ako, Sana maging okay siya,” Yap said in an interview with GMA News.

Kenneth Duremdes, a former Most Valuable Player in the PBA and also one of the league’s 25 Greatest Players, became emotional after hearing the news about Samboy Lim. “I’m devastated. Kasama dapat ako diyan sa Leg-

ends Game kaso may pocket tournament kami ng Adamson ,” he said via text message to InterAksyon.com.

Letran, where Lim served his shining years in collegiate basketball, held a mass last November 30 for the fast recovery of the Skywalker.

Lim was one of the most notable Knights as he led the Intramuros-based squad to its three straight championship titles in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) back in 19821984. The “Skywalker” served his glorifying years in the PBA for the San Miguel Beermen, and contributed a lot in the 1986 and 1990 Asian games where Philippines placed second.

PHOTOS FROM INTERNET

Second sem sports events THE LETRAN Knights have definitely reaped off what they have sowed during the first semester of fierce battle and competition in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA); but come the second semester, seeds of hard work must again be planted, as they prepare for next semester’s events.

Opening the second semester is the Volleyball Tournament. Will both the Women’s and Men’s Volleyball Team be able to regain the trophy and make up for their poor performance last season? The opening was held at the Mall of Asia Arena on November 12. The tournament is host-

BY MARILIE TUBALINAL

ed by Arellano University.

Next in line is the Lawn Tennis Tournament. For years now, the Letran Lawn Tennis Team has been one of the frontrunners of this event. Will they continue to rise or will this season be their downfall? San Sebastian College-Recoletos will host the event starting on December 2 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

Meanwhile, November 29 marks the start of the Football Tournament hosted by San Beda College.

To kick-off the New Year is the Soft Tennis Tournament to be held on January 10. San Sebastian will again be the hosts of this event.

Beach Volleyball will start on the 18th of February; Letran will play as hosts for the event.

And lastly, the Track and Field Tournament, hosted by Mapua Institute of Technology, will take place on February 26.

Aside from the sports tournaments, the NCAA will also host other events like the most anticipated Cheerleading competition on March 7 to be held at the Mall of Asia Arena, hosted

by Jose Rizal University.

Other events like outreach programs and NCAA Christmas Party will be held on December 12.

PHOTO FROM INTERNET

THE SAN BEDA Red Lions won their fifth straight championship, tying San Sebastian College-Recoletos (SSCR) historical record with five consecutive championships in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Basketball tournament.

A discussion is now raised among college basketball analysts and college basketball fans alike: where do the San Beda Red Lions rank among college basketball’s greatest dynasties? Their recent accomplishment put them right up in the discussion as one of college basketball’s most elite teams in history.

San Beda is one of the premiere schools in collegiate basketball, not only in the NCAA, but also talking about the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP). De La Salle University (DLSU), the University of Santo Tomas (UST), Ateneo De Manila University, the University of the East (UE), and Far Eastern University (FEU) have all had their fair share of basketball glory, producing excellent players and each having successful runs in different eras as well; while in the NCAA, schools like SSC-R and Colegio de San Juan de Letran (CSJL) are also worth mentioning in the discussion among collegiate basketball’s greatest teams.

The discussion talks about each school’s most successful championship run and each school’s greatest championship teams.

The last time the Philippines saw a five-peat in college basketball was when Ateneo did it in 2012. The team was then coached by Norman Black, one of the best coaches in Philippine basketball, and led by Ryan Buenafe, Nico Salva, Chris Tiu, Rabeh Al-Hussaini, Kirk Long, and Kiefer Ravena. San Sebastian claimed a five-peat of their

own in 1997. A team led by Topex Robinson, Banjo Calpito, Jasper Ocampo, and Brix Encarnacion dominated the NCAA in the 90’s. UE, on the other hand, holds the record for most consecutive championships in the UAAP, doing it during the Robert Jaworski era, winning seven consecutive championships.

UST and DLSU have each had four-peats of their own; UST achieved it in two different eras and DLSU did it from 1998 to 2002. UST did it in the 90’s with players such as Dennis Espino, Chris Cantonjos, Gilbert Lao, Dale Singson, and Rey Evangelista. They also did it in the late 40’s and early 50’s.

For DLSU, their 4-peat was led by players such as Mike Cortez, Don Allado, Renren Ritualo, and Carlo Sharma.

Letran and FEU have each had their fair share of threepeats and dominant teams as well; Letran did it back in 1984, led by head coach Larry Albano and one of Letran’s most respected alumnae, Samboy Lim. FEU did it twice, first from 1979 to 1981, who was led by Anthony Williams, and the second was back in 2005 with players such as Arwind Santos, Mark Isip, Jonas Villanueva, and Dennis Miranda.

The argument for San Beda’s rank among all of college basketball’s greatest dynasties is still to be determined. They still have a chance to win their sixth straight championship trophy next season. Whether or not they will win next year is still in question, it will be a very tough task for sure, with some of their key players graduating and moving on. Though, one fact is for certain, their five year championship run will be forever immortalized as one of the greatest dynasties in Philippine college basketball history.

VOLUME XXXVIII - ISSUE 5 OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2014 - 16 PAGES

sports 15

Spikers hope to regain supremacy

BY RONALD JOHN ESPARTINEZ

AFTER a bad performance in the last two seasons, the Letran Volleyball Team will try to make revenge in the upcoming volleyball tournament of the 90th season of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

The Lady Knights started to meet its downfall in Season 88 and continued until last season, where they landed on the eighth spot with a 1-8 win-loss record, while the Men’s Team finished at the sixth spot tossing a 3-6 card.

This year, the Murallabased lady tossers started on quite a low note again as they got their first loss of the season courtesy of the College of Saint Benilde Lady Blazers after taking three sets to none, during the opening day of the

tournament on November 12 at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Team captain Juno Carreon vividly remembered how they were swept off by the Taft-based spikers, “First set tinambakan kami, then second set, 19-25, tapos third, una kaming lumamang kaso nahabol.”

She also admitted that they are well-prepared for the game itself yet the pressure of the game got the best out of some of her teammates’ nerves.

“Ginawa naman namin lahat ng preparations, pero siguro some of my teammates ay kinabahan lang talaga,” Carreon said.

The Letran Volleyball Team aims to win all their upcoming games. The Lady Knights’ captain assured the whole Letran community that they

will be exerting more effort to win the rest of their games, “Mas patatatagin pa po naming yung defense namin at yung fighting spirit namin.”

Meanwhile, both the Men’s and the Juniors’ Volleyball Team lost their opening matches as well against Saint Benilde and Perpetual Help, respectively, at the San Juan Arena, last November 13 and 14.

Schedule of the remaining games of the Lady Knights: November 17 - JRU November 19 - Perpetual November 22 - EAC November 27 - San Sebastian December 2 - Arellano December 8 - Mapua December 11 - Lyceum December 17 - San Beda All the games are to be held at the San Juan Arena.

Knights sweep last three games

BY RONALD JOHN ESPARTINEZ, DARREL SAN ANDRES, AND ANGELICA STA. ANA

member Melchor D iv i n a said that the Mapua can only send four players at that time, namely: CJ Isit, Joseph Eriobu, Jeson Cantos, and Jessie Saitanan.

EAC’s J o h n Ta y o n g tong was slapped with the biggest Racal charges towards the basket against Perpetual’s Gab Danganon.| PHOTO BY RYAN MIGUEL RONA s a n c tion and THE KNIGHTS of Muralla notched a win got suspended for five via forfeiture after the games after punching Mapua Cardinals was Isit. Smacked with a fourforced to cancel the game suspension was game due to lack of play- Leo Gabo of Mapua for Tayongtong. ers, last September 29. elbowing Meanwhile, in the CarA chaotic match that dinals’ side, other players erupted between the suspended were Jomari Emilio Aguinaldo College Tubiano for three games; (EAC) Generals and the CarJustin Serrano, James Gadinals caused 18 players to loso, Exeqiel Biteng, and be suspended, forcing the Andrew Estrella with underdog Cardinals to forfeit their impending match two games; while Ronagainst the Letran Knights. nel Villasenor and DarNational Collegiate Ath- rel Magsigay will miss letic Association (NCAA) the court for one game.

For the Generals, Jan Management Committee

Jamon, Ariel Aguilar, Jack Arquero, and Sydney Onwubere, were all slapped with three-game suspensions each while John Santos, ManelleQuilanita and EdselSaludo with two.

FaustinePascual served a suspension for one game.

Letran avenges their first round loss to LPU with a dominating 25-point victory, 77-52, last October 3.

An undermanned Letran looked like a team on a mission as they dismantle their prey early into the game even without the presence of head coach Caloy Garcia, who was suspended, and without the help of the do-itall-star forward Kevin Racal, out due to a torn ACL. Without the athletic Racal, Ford Ruaya took the spotlight to lift Letran with 19 points and seven rebounds in just 20 minutes in the game that could be his second to the last wearing a Letran uniform. Mark Cruz added 13 points.

Letran goes out of contention in style as they deny College of Saint Benilde a chance to play in the Final Four,

Complain less, thank more I GUESS there is not a single day, I see and hear no complain. I am no exception, of course. We complain at the smallest things in life, as if it is all a matter of life and death. We never see the side of things we must be grateful for.

We tweet about how slow the Internet connection is, or how weak the Wi-Fi is in a certain place. Never did we see the bare idea of having it, no matter how slow or fast it is. Can’t we just be thankful that we are at least enjoying the luxury that some may have never experience?

We complain about the traffic every minute of everyday as if we are not used to it. But instead of stressing ourselves out, might as well, think of this. We are being stuck at traffic, exactly like the student sitting next to us, or the businessman in the other car, or any other person. Complaining about how disgusting the Philippine government’s road projects are, or how greedy these traffic enforcers are, will definitely not help us to get to where we are supposed to be. Why not look at the brighter side of it? Why not be thankful of the heavy traffic we are facing everyday? Realize how lucky we are to be stuck in traffic because we have a car or a vehicle to ride in. We are lucky enough to have the ease as many would merely walk miles and miles in other places because they do not have roads good enough for

64-57, last October 8.

The Muralla-based cagers’ two made field goals in the fourth period was enough for them to snug the win against the Blazers, who were aspiring to get back in the Final Four for the first time since 2002.

A combination of 27 markers from the graduating duo of Ruaya and Jamil Gabawan led the Knights in the final game of the season. Garcia admitted that it was their plan to go big during their final game, so as to give extended

transportation – some even walking barefoot. At least, be thankful that we are stuck in traffic because we have to be somewhere else, and we have a destination to get to, whether it is to school, work, market or even mall.

We complain at so many things in life. We complain about what we don’t have and what we have.

Pondering on it, our complaints are brought by our discontentment. Human nature, if I may say.

Although some believe that we should never be satisfied and complacent about what we currently have, I guess, at some point, you just have to be. There is a certain limit wherein we just have to stop sufficing our hunger for more and just be grateful for what we have at hand. And I think, that is the very moment we shall attain genuine satisfaction.

With the kind of society we have right now, there will always be something to complain about. We will always see something wrong, or even something that just does not feel right. But before complaining, why not think first if we could barely do something about it ourselves? Or why not just look at the bigger picture and seek for the brighter side of it?

Yes, there are a lot to complain about; but there are certainly more to be grateful for. It basically all depends on how we see things. Perspective.

minutes to his graduating players, “that was really our first intention.”

He also added that, “before the game, I told the players it’s how we end the season that counts. It’s better to finish off a season with a win; especially we were playing against a team that needed to win.

That’s where our character would come out.”

Letran, who failed to make it in the Final Four for the first time since 2010, finished off this year’s season with an even 9-9 win-loss record.

SPORTS

VOLUME XXXVIII - ISSUE 5 | OCTOBER - NOVEMBER 2014 - 16 PAGES

Men’s smashers win first ever championship

THE LETRAN Men’s Badminton Team outplayed all competing teams of the 90th season of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and brought home its firstever championship trophy as the Badminton tournament wrapped up last September 20 at the Power Play Badminton Center in Quezon City.

The Men’s Badminton Team showed an undeniably fast improvement after falling short during last year’s tournament, being ranked runners-up to the College of St. Benilde.

The championship team, composed of brothers Nephtali and Nathaniel Pineda, Gerald Cruz, Julius Quindoza, Leo Orsolino, and Mark Sabarre, who was hailed as the Most Valuable Player (MVP), put on a 6-2 record by the end of the first round

BY ANGELICA STA. ANA

Letran smashers rise as champions of the NCAA season 90 men’s division.| PHOTO FROM PAMD

of the competition, putting them at the top of the competition’s standings.

Finishing with only two defeats in the second round was already good enough to land the Muralla-based smashers a spot in the Finals.

During the championship game, Mark Sabarre won the singles game

Taekwondo team brings honors

BY MARILIE TUBALINAL THE LETRAN Taekwondo Team exemplified their skills and bagged four silver and two bronze medals during the NCAA Season 90 Taekwondo Competition held last October 7 to 9 at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium.

Noreen Victoriano, Raymund Avila, Ralph Denna, and Elricks Panuayan have snatched silver medals; while Anthony Avila grabbed a bronze.

Taekwondo team’s Mark Diaz showed an exceptional performance at the poomsae event and grabbed a bronze medal as well.

Taekwondo poomsaes are primarily done to exhibit set of Taekwondo stances and forms, while being scored depending on the mastery on each move.

Joy Benedictos, the team captain, said there was a great improvement compared to their performance last year, “Mas naging maganda yung outcome this season compared last season,” she said, adding, “unti-unti nang bumabalik ang Letran Taekwondo at lalo pa naming paghahandaan ang mga susunod na [season] ng NCAA.” The Men’s Taekwondo team was composed of Bryan Abrazaldo, Jethro Caliwan, Augustine Claveria, Raed Dacanay, Clyde Egera, Paul Flores, Edred Guanzon, Roberto Lopez, Aris Matria, Paulo Pongyan, and Aldrin Sta. Ana. On the other hand, Arielle Ang, Vanessa Barbon, Joy Benedictos, Micah Castro, Patricia Hilay, Cassandra Ignacio, Christine Pagibitan, Geriel Perlado, Mae Tabeta, and Noreen Victoriano comprised the Women’s team.

The Taekwondo tournament was hosted by College of Saint Benilde.

It has truly been a tough journey for the team. Hence, they certainly deserve to be commended not only due to the medals that they brought back to Intramuros but also because of the school pride they exhibited upon competing.

against Austin Sangalang of the College of St. Benilde, taking two sets to one.

The singles game was immediately followed by the Doubles game of Nathaniel Pineda and Julius Quindoza, finishing the tournament for the Knights with a sweep, two sets to none, against the Blazers.

The reigning MVP, Mark Sabarre, can still clearly picture in his mind how he was just extremely happy with the Knights being officially declared as champions, “Bigla na lang ako napaiyak sa kinauupuan ko nun dahil sa hindi maipaliwanag na kaligayahang naramdaman ko dahil sa wakas nagbunga na ang paghi-

hirap naming lahat,” he said.

According to Sabarre, he also did not expect to be chosen as the MVP of the tournament knowing that there are a lot of great players competing. His primary goal is to help the team bring home the championship trophy.

“Bonus na lang itong pagiging MVP ko,” he exclaimed.

The Women’s Badminton Team, however, failed to equate the achievement the Men’s Team, as they only landed at the second runner-up spot of the tourney.

Regardless, this has certainly been the year of redemption for the Letran Men’s Badminton team. This feat marks Letran’s first crown in badminton since the sport has been added as a demo event in the NCAA back in Season 85 before becoming an official sport during the 88th Season.

Knights welcome new head coach

BY BRYLE SURALTA

LETRAN officially named former Letran cager and current assistant coach of Kia Motors in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), Aldin Ayo, to replace Caloy Garcia as head coach of the Knights.

Fr. Aceron signs the contract officially making Aldrin Ayo the Ayo, a new head coach of the Letran Knights.| PHOTO FROM PAMD steady contributor for the Knights back in the late do and Chris Calaguio.

Coach Ayo sees a great 90’s under Coach Louie Ayo replaced Garcia who difference between coachAlas, had his first meet- had a solid two-year run ing for Kia in the PBA and ing with the whole Le- with the Knights. The Rain with coaching for coltran basketball team as or Shine Elasto Painters as- legiate basketball, “The the official head coach of sistant coach led the team to rules,” adding, “because the Knights on December the Finals, finishing as run- they have different rules.

2 at the St. Thomas Hall. ners-up to San Beda in his Players, basically, they’re The search committee, first season as Knight’s head the same and of course, composed of a few distin- bench tactician, but in the mas mataas yung level sa guished alumni and Act- following season, dropped PBA but here sa collegiate, ing Rector and President out of the Final Four with a it’s more about developRev. Fr. Orlando Aceron, 9-9 win-loss record. ing talents and discipline.”

O.P., chose a name that had Lastly, Ayo had a short When he was asked on been near and dear to what his feelings were and plain response when the Letran community. when he knew he was asked what his message The current Sorsogon named Letran’s next head is for the Letran commucouncillor was part of coach, Ayo replied, “Una, nity and what to expect the Letran Champion- excited. After a day, nai- from the Knights this comship squad that was led sip ko na it’s a big task ing Season 91: “It’s good to by both Kerby Raymun- and a big responsibility.” be back. We will compete.”