October Issue 4 - A.Y. 2019-2020 by The LANCE

OCTOBER 2019

VOLUME XLIII ISSUE 4

FEATURES

NEWS

CEIT Students hailed champion in Ad Excelsa 2019

SPORTS

OPINION

Exhibiting Filipino culture through ‘Archie Comics’

CEIT completes three-peat bid in Letramurals 2019

Not segregation

Rector addresses seven agenda in Relacíon 2019

BY ANDREA ANDRES, RONI MAE SERRANO

THE RECTOR and President of Colegio de San Juan de Letran Manila and Bataan, Rev. Fr. Clarence Marquez, O.P, shared the Colegio’s achievements as well as his plans for both campuses in his fourth annual Rector’s Report for the A.Y 2018-2019 last October 10 at the St. Thomas Hall. The annual ‘Relacion’ started with the rector’s homily followed by the report on the El Viaje de Letran or the Strategic Plan which contains six objectives.The event was shown via live-streamed at in Letran Bataan. He began his speech by presenting the institutional performance that accomplished 57% or out of 164 targets, 93 was achieved and 71 wasn’t able to attain or it’s currently ongoing. Compared to his last year’s Relacion, the statistics went down » EXCELLENCE/ PAGE 3

PHOTO BY PATRICK ROMERO EXCELLENCE. Rector and president delivers his speech in front of the school’s administrators and selected student body representatives in Relacion 2019.

Letran launches Beep™ Newly appointed iCOMM chairperson to ID system strengthen linkages

PHOTO BY PINKY GENOVE CASHLESS. Students may now load their Letran Beep card in the loading stations available around the campus.

BY RONI MAE SERRANO THE COLEGIO officially launched the new identification card system in partnership with Beep™ last October 7 at the Salon de Actos. According to Vice President for Financial Affairs, Fr. Lauro de Dios, O.P, the changing of ID system supports the goal of Letran to be a “cashless” campus. “This step would make our daily everything easy and convenient, adding to the positive

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experiences we are envisioning for the students and employees of Letran,” VPFA explained. He also said that the partnership with Beep was a process of maximizing the services offered by the institution for its students and employees. “Through this partnership, we are elevating the services of Letran, making your stay with us worth remembering,” he said. Fr. De Dios also shared that the

» CASHLESS/ PAGE 2

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PHOTO BY CHARLES FRANCIA

competitive industry practitioners which will be our students and for it to be ready to level up in the academic world,” Ombao said. Ombao attended One Year Film Conservatory at New York Film Academy in 2012 and worked in various international media productions such as Enmaze Pictures, Rollin’ Studios Inc., and other more. She also served as the assistant chairperson of the Institute of Communication from June 2017 to April 2018. She was appointed last July to take over the former iCOMM chairperson Laurenti Dyogi.

NEWLY appointed Institute of Communication (iCOMM) chairperson Jolline Satti Ombao aims to build stronghold with the Institute’s industry partners. “The plan of the entire Institute is to build a stronghold with our industry partners, build an eager stronghold, and build a relationship with our students,” Ombao told The LANCE. Ombao added that the Institute is also planning to develop the communication skills of both students

and faculty. “We could set up avenues. We could set up a system that would make communication fluid in this institute which is composed of a pretty big population,” she explained. “Mahina pa tayo roon pero that is understandable. Lahat tayo bago at nangangapa,” she added. She also visualized the institute as globally competitive that will enhance its students’ capabilities. “I may or may not be here but the vision of the iCOMM from the time of Direk Lauren is to produce globally

GENERAL ASSEMBLY Furthermore, iCOMM gathered its students in a general assembly entitled “Hob Nob” which happened last October 9 at the SC Auditorium. Important matters for the whole academic year had been discussed specifically the academic calendar and the curriculum discussion. The general assembly also served as an opportunity for the iCOMM to welcome and orient the new batch of freshmen students. “We do believe that you are not the only one who chooses Letran, Letran chooses its students too,” Ombao told the iCOMM students in her closing remarks.

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NEW OPPORTUNITIES. Chairperson Jolline Satti Ombao heads the iCOMM general assembly.

BY PATRICIA LARA

NEWS

NEWS EDITOR: RAILON DENIEGA LAYOUT ARTIST: ELDRICK NOLASCO

CEIT students hailed champion in Ad Excelsa 2019

BY JOANNA FLORES

THE COLLEGE of Engineering and Information Technology (CEIT) students dominated “Ad Excelsa: The Design Competition 2019.” The event was hosted by the Junior Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers - Lungsod ng Maynila Chapter last October 12 at the DPWH South Office. Intending to develop the technical skills of Civil Engineering students, the Colegio’s representatives emerged as champions, both in the Bridge Building Competition and Tower Making Competition. In an interview with The LANCE, Paul Cañoza, one of the winners, shared his experience in the said competition. “We have to estimate the materials and design them in a required measurements from our rubrics,” he stated. “Our struggles are estimating the materials and deciding on how we were able to design our bridge,” he added, saying that their only motivation was to at least pass their bridge to the load testing. Along with Cañoza were Mark Louie Rivera and Sean Ragandap who put their efforts and skills

EXCELLENCE FROM PAGE 1

with 60% which Fr. Marquez specify each objective of Letran’s strategic plan.

ACHIEVE ACADEMIC PROGRAM EXCELLENCE Rector admits not being able to reach half of the accomplishment rate of achieving academic program excellence. Marquez shared that the Colegio was only able to achieve 48.93% of its accomplishment rate, while the remaining 51.61% was taken by the rector as points for improvement rather than a failure. 48.93% includes the full implementation of the K-12 Curriculum and Outcome–Based Education in the Basic Education Department. Rector claimed that Letran has finally surpassed the transition period from the old curriculum to the introduced K–12 program. The institution was also able to achieve 30% alignment of faculty members in collegiate departments, which means faculty members of each college department are graduates that have degrees in line with the courses they are teaching. As for the academic heads of each department, 25% of academic heads have their PhDs or doctoral degrees, while 92.31% of administrative heads have their master’s degrees. Meanwhile, for the 51.61% points for improvement, the Rector discussed the plans that must be accomplished, involving the goal to increase the passing rate of Accountancy graduates of the Colegio as one of the schools who have low passing rates in ten years. However, the Rector assured that the Academic Affairs is doing every possible way to help increase the passing rates. Another point for improvement that the President observed

PHOTOS FROM LETRAN ENGINEERING SOCIETY

together to secure their bridge model in a span of three hours of bridge construction. Moreover, another group from Letran named Justine Arquero, Janzen Angel and Mark Batay landed as 2nd runner-up winners and Best in Aesthetics in the same category. Out of nine schools from Manila, Letran triumphed once again as the representatives for the Tower Making Competition were declared as champion. “Noong una, nawawalan na kami ng pag-asa na makasama sa Top 3 dahil nakita namin na magaganda ang mga gawa ng mga kalaban,”

was the international and local exchange for programs that will benefit faculty members of the institution. According to Rev. Fr. Marquez, one thing that makes a good school is having linkages and connections with local, and even international organizations as it gives the Colegio more opportunities employing knowledge – sharing for students and faculty members as well. While the majority in the College of Business Administration and Accountancy Programs have already achieved Level 3 PAASCU Accreditation, the institution still aims for the Center for Development Status be granted by the Commission on Higher Education.

PAASCU UPDATES While not all programs offered by the institution reached the target PAASCU Accreditation within the time frame, Marquez reported more than half of 53% of collegiate programs managed to earn and maintain their accreditation levels. Many of the collegiate academic programs are already in Level 3 and is the validation of Letran’s academic program’s compliance with the quality standards of a good education. Programs accredited in Level 3 also provide the Colegio opportunities to open new graduate programs and with that, the Colegio could receive the Commission on Higher Education’s Center of Development (COD) status. Academic programs with (COD) status exemplifies excellent performance in the areas of teaching, research and extension linkages. This also includes more funding opportunities from the government. ACCOMPLISHED EXCELLENCE IN RESEARCH The Colegio fulfilled 75% of its target on research as it is one found in an integral component that gives the Colegio’s faculty

Rachel Guiao, one of the winners, told The LANCE. “Pero during the testing, naging masaya kami dahil isa ang tower namin na magaan at nakabuhat ng 5.6 na loads,” she furthered. Guiao then expressed their emotions upon hearing that they won the said competition. “Sobrang nakaka-proud na kami ang nag-represent ng Civil Engineering ng Letran,” Guiao exclaimed. However, the Civil Engineering Student admitted the struggles that they have encountered during the process. “Ang struggles namin ay kung

members and students to create and discover new knowledge. Accomplishments in research include the full implementation of the five-year Arriba program, and the institution’s research journal, “Luz y Saber and Antorcha” was also able to have 48% of its referees from the international community. The institution was also able to produce five types of research from the one institutional research we have had on the 2017 – 2018 research involvement, while 37.14% of the full-time faculty members were able to involve themselves in research. However, with the accomplishments in the research involvement, the President still emphasized the need for fulltime faculty members to be more involved with research. EMPLOYEE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM The institution is currently implementing an Employee Development program to enhance administrators faculty members, and support staff ’s qualifications, job experience, and well–being. The Rector admitted that the accomplishment rate for this program still needs to achieve more than half of its target. The 100% implementation of all spiritual activities signifies that on top of promoting a favorable workplace, the Colegio can nourish the spiritual needs of the employees. The Colegio also encourages the completion of master studies of full-time faculty members from the Basic Education and Senior High School as well as the implementation of Intervention program as part of promoting the Colegio’s concern of the wellbeing of its employees. LEARNING RESOURCES AND SUPPORT SERVICES Letran was able to achieve

paano namin pagtitibayin ‘yong tower gamit ang papel at tape,” said Guiao. “Ang contest na ‘yon ay hindi lamang pagandahan ng design. Kailangan din ng diskarte kung paano mapapatibay ang tower,” she added. Guiao echoed the same sentiments of Cañoza as to their only motivation in the competition was to pass the load testing. “Kung mali ang nasundan niyo na sukat sa mechanics, disqualified na agad. Kaya dapat hindi lang matibay ang aming gawa, kailangan din sundan ang binigay na mechanics,” she explained.

61.82% of its targets for improving learning resources and support services. First of these accomplishments are the 50% completion of the Physical Development Plan, 61% accomplishment of the Integrated Student Welfare Program, and 55.4% of the Integrated Information Technology Plan. The institution also achieved the highest number of library acquisitions for the Academic Year 2018-2019, the Colegio has now 2,736 volume of online resources. As for the reports about the student-athletes, 100% have normal findings in their physical examination and 100% negative drug test results. For improvements, the Rector calls for the need to increase the number of event championships in the National Collegiate Athletic Association, this also includes individual awards: MVP, Rookie of the Year, Mythical Five, in all other sports events other than basketball. Aside from athletic performance, he also added the need to improve the academic performance and disciplinary status of the institution’s student-athletes which in the past school year, 60% of athletes have subject failures and survival rates of student-athletes in the collegiate department have not reached 50%. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT As one main objective of the Colegio, Letran was able to achieve 72.73% of its target for community development. These achievements include 42.73% increased number of volunteers from the students, employees, and alumni who participate in community service activities. 100% of the assessment reports revealed that our community service recipients have benefited from our activities. However, the Colegio, through the Center for Community Development, is aiming for international partners to be able to upgrade our community

Moreover, Guiao extend her gratitude to Letran who taught them to persevere and to stand firm in every competition. “Tinuruan kami ng Letran na huwag basta-bastang sumuko dahil lahat ng contest may nananalo at may natatalo,” she affirmed. Along with Rachel Guiao were Chrisaint Magbanua and Raymund Avila who successfully rose their tower in the recently concluded competition. The winners were awarded medals, certificate of recognition and cash prize as they actively involve themselves in building the future of the nation. service activities.

STUDENT SURVIVAL RATES According to Rector, the Colegio has a lot more things to improve that he discussed the positive student experience and quality teaching and learning to the student leaders from elementary to college. The Rector stated: “Hiningi ko ang kanilang tulong para mapataas ang accomplishment rate natin sa objective na ito.” He highlighted that the welfare of the Colegio was the enrollment and survival rate of the students. On the other hand, the Colegio achieved the target survival rates of the different colleges: CBAA, CLAS, and CEIT, wherein 64% of students who graduated within four years. Following, the Senior High school together with the basic education also obtains the same goal. For the senior high school, 90.30% were able to graduate in a time frame of two years.

INSTITUTIONAL FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY The Colegio was able to meet its goal with 40% on its target earnings from Bookstore, Page 1620, Knights Café, and other concessionaires. Under other conditions, the Colegio is still struggling with regards to the donations and costsaving targets, intending to raise funds through Php 80 million worth of donations by the end of A.Y 2020-2021 . With all the accomplishments and plans yet to be achieved, Marque., asked for the full participation of students, alumni, faculty members, and support staff, to be able to achieve the goals for the Colegio. He then encouraged and tasked every one to do their respective functions as stakeholders, which will be able to benefit them and the Colegio as well.

News

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Thousands join the feast of La Naval de Manila

PHOTOS BY PATRICK ROMERO

CELEBRATION OF FAITH. Devotees flock to Sto. Domingo Church for the Feast of La Naval de Manila.

BY PATRICIA LARA

THOUSANDS flock to Sto. Domingo Church during the Feast of La Naval de Manila. Devotees and members of Dominican institutions paid homage to the image of Our Lady of La Naval by joining the grand procession. The Feast of La Naval de Manila is celebrated every second Sunday of

October at the Sto. Domingo Church in Quezon City. The event culminated with a traditional procession together with the other statues of the Dominican Saints. The procession started at exactly 4 p.m along Sto. Domingo Avenue, going to Quezon Avenue. The procession lasted for two hours, reaching Sto. Domingo Church by 6 p.m.

In a personal interview with The LANCE, one of the devotees of La Naval, Lilia Moraga, shared that she has been a devotee since her young age. “Siyempre, unang-una family. Iyong magandang kalusugan, ilayo sa sakuna, at walang magkakasakit. Saka blessing kung ano mang grasya ang ibigay,” she said when asked about her reason for joining the

procession. The 65-year-old member of the religious organization added that she is willing to continue her devotion to Our Lady of La Naval until the end. Furthermore, Dominican Institutions such as Colegio de San Juan de Letran, University of Santo Tomas and University of Sto. Tomas - Angelicum College also joined the procession.

LRT-2 to be ‘unavailable’ for 9 months

PHOTO FROM THE INTERNET

BY JOANNA FLORES

THOUSANDS of commuters endured the traffic in Metro Manila as the operations of the Light Rail Transit line 2 (LRT-2) were suspended after a fire took place between Katipunan and Anonas station causing a total shutdown of the entire line. The Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) has announced that the Santolan, Anonas and Katipunan Stations will be unavailable for nine months to give way for a structural revamp as well as further inspections of the railway lines. In an article released by Manila Bulletin, LRTA Administrator, Reynaldo Berroya, said they cannot compromise the safety of the passengers as it is “paramount in the delivery of mass rail transit service” “We cannot compromise the safety

of everyone so we need to thoroughly check the integrity and stability of LRT-2 structures and equipment before we resume operations,” said Beroya. However, LRTA Spokesperson Hernando Cabrera announced that LRT-2 resumed its operations from Recto to Cubao stations with only five trains to ease the burden of the mass taking the route. Nonetheless, commuters were forced to look for alternative modes of transportation to reach their destinations. For 22-year-old, Letran student, Emil Carreon who lives in Marikina, the partial operation means taking a very treacherous 3-hour commute. Before the said incident of LRT2, Carreon usually leave the house at 6:00 AM and arrive in Katipunan station at around 6:35 to 6:40 AM. By then, at 6:45 AM he would be inside the car train of LRT where it

only takes 20 to 25 minutes of travel from Katipunan to Recto and another 10 minutes from Recto to Letran. As for Carreon, aside from LRT-2, there are two ways to reach Letran if the starting point will be in Marikina City. First is via Aurora Boulevard where the LRT is located while the second option is through Sandigan Bayan in Commonwealth Avenue through QC Memorial CircleWelcome Rotonda-Quiapo then finally to Intramuros. When asked about how the LRT-2 incident affects him, Carreon shared his adjustments to The LANCE. “At first, I started to try commuting via Aurora Boulevard through jeepney rides. However, it was a tiring option,” he said. “Since the LRT is no longer operational, all prior patrons of the LRT are doing the same jeepney rides and thus, [it’s] very difficult to

have the option of taking the Aurora Boulevard way,” he added. Carreon also stressed that commuting, in general, has always been a struggle most especially for students studying in Manila and living in Marikina. “It certainly affected me so much that the 1 hour and 30 minutes commute then becomes a 3-hour journey,” he stated. Meanwhile, to augment PUVs servicing affected passengers, some managements such as the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) provide free bus rides daily from Santolan to Cubao and vice versa. The LRTA also announced that additional buses, UV Express Service, and modern PUJs will be deployed to ferry affected passengers with fare ranges from P12 to P15, comparable to the train fare for the same routes.

“Aside from the physical tiredness, I felt lifted and loved. I saw how a lot of people waited outside of their houses just to have a glimpse of the Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary,” Edlyn Miano, a Letran Communication Student told The LANCE. “La Naval is indeed an event of celebrating our battles and proclaiming our faith,” she added.

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first agreement with AF Payments Incorporation was only to create commemorative cards for Alumni in celebration of the four hundred years of the Colegio. “The tie-up with AF Payments Incorporated was an offshoot of Office of Alumni and Public Affairs’ intent to make the graduate I.D or Alumni Card highlights the commemorative card for the Quadricentennial Celebration of the Colegio,” VPFA furthered. As AF Payments extended its offer for the institution’s I.D system, a second agreement was inked. Using Letran IDs for multiple purposes such as access to railway transits, point–to– point buses, convenience and concessionaires inside Letran, Fr. de Dios emphasized that if the installations on these concessionaires are completely done, Letran will be a “cashless” campus. Meanwhile, for the remaining IDs of some collegiate students and employees that are still not able to release, VPFA said: “However, there are many setbacks [but] there is no more turning back. We only ask for patience, and of course, with your cooperation, we should all succeed.” Out of the 14 concessionaires, the institution has eight of them are ready including the Mang George Canteen, located at the ground floor of SC Building, Breana’s Café, located behind the Quezon Garden, H.A.R.D.S School Hub, located on the 3rd floor of connecting College and Senior Highschool building, and Julie’s Bakeshop. Kiosks are installed and ready to be used, located at the Salon de Actos and the hallways between Finance Office and Admissions Office for loading and balance– checking purposes.

OPINION

OCTOBER 2019

EDITORIAL Not segregation Seriously? The National Youth Commission proposed to separate male and female students in grades 7 to 12 to curb teenage pregnancy. “They wouldn’t be assigned together for projects, there wouldn’t need to be a reason to stay over,” saidchairperson Ryan Enriquez. Under his proposed set-up, students can still interact with the opposite sex around campus, but won’t be assigned to the same classes. According to the Population Commission (PopCom), 24 babies are born to teenage mothers every hour and almost 200,000 Filipino teens get pregnant annually, most of them from ages 15 to 19. While we appreciate his idea to help suppress the growing rate of teenage pregnancy, gender segregation is only a temporary solution to a permanent problem. Having separate classes will only double the need for facilities when in reality, we already lack the number of classrooms available especially in public sectors. In Quezon City, for instance, teachers had to split classrooms in half forcing the same number of students into a smaller space due to lack of available classrooms at the Bagong Silangan High School. Instead of building walls, it is better to teach students about comprehensive sex education to give them further knowledge regarding their reproductive health. Lack of knowledge can lead to consequences, and it is important for students to know these consequences at a young age.

E D I T O R I A L B O A R D S Y. 2 0 1 9 - 2 0 2 0 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MANAGING EDITOR NEWS EDITOR FEATURES EDITOR ONLINE EDITOR MULTIMEDIA EDITOR DESIGN EDITOR

ALYSSA AQUINO ETHAÑA RAMONES RAILON DENIEGA MEILINDA MALACAT CHANTAL MACARAEG PATRICK ROMERO ELDRICK NOLASCO

NEWS WRITERS Joanna Flores Andrea Andres Roni Mae Serrano Patricia Lara FEATURES WRITERS Angelica Joy Mendoza Justin Santelices Georgina Santiago SPORTS WRITER Alyssa Aquino CARTOONIST Rumiel Casanova PHOTOGRAPHERS Pinky Genove Adrian Aguilar ANTON VINCENZ L. TANTOCO PUBLICATION ADVISER

Published monthly, THE LANCE has its office at the 3F Student Center Building, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, Intramuros Manila FOR COMMENTS, SUGGESTIONS AND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Email us at thelance@letran.edu.ph

ARTWORK BY RUMIEL CASANOVA

When is the right time to talk about sex? The church teaches us that sexual intercourse has a purpose, and that outside marriage it is contrary to its purpose. While I respect this statement, I strongly believe in the importance of sex education. First, sex education does not encourage teenagers to have sex, but the opposite. Lack of proper knowledge about sex can lead to unwanted pregnancy. Giving students an accurate picture of the risks of having sexual intercourse at a young age can help them make informed decisions. It is important to teach students at a reasonable age the dangers of having sex and how to prevent them. Having comprehensive sexual health classes in schools One hundred years ago, Albert Einstein proposed that time is relevant. In his theory of relativity, he states that time and space are not as constant as everyday life would suggest. Technically speaking we are talking about space, time and change of rate, in which people all over the world are experiencing. Imagine two people lying in bed in two other frames of reference in which it measures a different rate of time. Thus, clocks ticking can vary from others. Where do you want to live? The usual time or the one that is faster? Back when I was a child, I’ll always pray to get older fast so that I can do more things than just a mere child can’t do. Seconds after seconds. Minutes after minutes. Hour after an hour. Until I realize I am already older than usual. Twenty is the number. Now, a collegiate

Sex education, maybe? SILENT KNIGHT Alyssa Aquino

@alyssakthryn eic.thelance@letran.edu.ph

can help ensure that students are taking preventative measures to keep themselves safe. Sexual activity has its consequences, and it’s very important that students understand these consequences through proper sex education. Sex education shouldn’t be limited to certain people because of their parents’ views or their religion. Honoring our beliefs doesn’t mean we have ignorant of certain issues that may pose a threat to our society. Furthermore, I believe

that sex education should start at home. Teens should feel safe to talk about serious matters like this with their families to guide them. Growing up, I was filled with questions. Luckily, I was guided by people I can trust. I could just imagine other teens who didn’t have anyone to guide them. According to a report from the Population Commission (PopCom), 24 babies are born to teenage mothers every hour and almost 200,000 Filipino teens get

pregnant annually, most of them from ages 15 to 19. PopCom executive director Juan Antonio Perez III said teenage pregnancy requires concrete and immediate action. He explained that the implementation of comprehensive sex education in schools is the long-term solution to the enduring problem. However, the Department of Education (DepEd) is still in the process of preparing the modules for the integration of sexuality education in subjects and the materials to be used by teachers. While there is no concrete plan with regards to comprehensive sex education, we should not be ignorant and equip ourselves with the knowledge to guide our future decisions.

I’d rather live slower than usual CLAIMING STRIDES Ethaña Ramones

@ethanyita_ maned.thelance@letran.edu.ph

student. Age and time coexist with one another, as well as space that has been a part of our lives. These three dictates progress, existence and the boundaries of the past, present, and future. It marks growth and continuum dimensions in which we all exist. Now, that I’m turning into the adult stage of my life. I realized many things in which Einstein might have earlier. Half of the 20th Century, Einstein became known for producing most of the beautiful theories that exist now. As a person of science, the time of thinking about these wonderful creations was helpful today.

Being chill sometimes became an opportunity for epiphanies. Realizations occur at times we don’t expect. I believe in the saying that being intelligent is being lazy. I am not saying that we should become playful when it comes to our academics, but what I mean was take a break, sit in a café, eat cakes, be delighted by ice cream pops and enjoy the day of wandering about random things. These might lead to incredible ideas at hand. On the technicality of science, one can always look at lessons it taught us to be consistent with the change, time, and space. I would rather live

slower than usual to maximize the time I have with my family, with those who really love me and to serve God with all my heart. I would never change a single relevant event in my life that made me who I am today, instead, I will dwell with most of the feelings may be painful or exciting because it helps us grow to a better person. With time, everything heals, everything passes by but memories stay. Always think, the way you want other people to think about you. Leave a legacy that will enrich the world with ideas and realizations that can help them realize their mission. Focus on the now, and live slower by making time your own definition of happiness and contentment. On the other hand, Space is an expanse of our availability and occupancy as a human, it is natural to die but I choose to die slower.

Opinion

VO LU M E X L I I I - I S S U E 4

The futility of Panelo’s commute challenge I spend over forty-five minutes to one hour a day commuting to and from Colegio de San Juan de Letran - Manila for one year, two months and counting. I do not own a car nor my family does, and I have a deep-seated and irrational fear of riding in an LRT station, as they say, is the fastest way of transportation but due to its flawed system, I would rather build my flying boat. Fortunately, one jeepney is enough for me to arrive at my destination compared to some of my classmates who would need to ride at least 2-3 vehicles from home to school and vice versa. However, I am not an exception from millions of Filipinos struggling to commute. I would be needing to wake up at 5:00 and leave the house by 6:00 without taking breakfast just to attend my first class at 7:30 in the morning. If I am going to ride a jeepney in a populated area then I expect it to be cramped and I am not surprised of this expectation I meet every day. I would cram to stand beside the traffic post only to get passed by a jeepney full of loads or a crowded bus. I see how many passengers suffer “How are we going to bring OPM on to the international scale if our own country is not playing their own music? When we’re idolizing other people’s music? I think we should play more OPM music on the radio. Monday to Sunday, 24 hours on the clock. I swear, if radio stations don’t do this by tomorrow, IDK’s gonna be my last single, I quit music.” Those are the exact lines of the Australia-born singer-actress, Karen Ann Cabrera, popularly known as ‘Karencitta’. After posting a video of her interview on Instagram from a radio show, many netizens have aired out mixed reactions towards her statement. While many agree with her testimony, there’s also the flip side of the coin. Just as upon reading it, I couldn’t help but feel a slight dose of infuriation. First of all, who even is she? Aside from her hit ‘Cebuana’, what entitles her as queen over Original

THE LAMPSTAND Railon Deniega

@raideniega newsed.thelance@letran.edu.ph

in less seating space. Some of them would just cling on the entrance of the jeepney. O, what a great war in the morning as if I am a soldier battling for a seat to commute. I do not have any choice but to stand there beside the post and wait for like eternity until a freeload jeepney arrives. As I write this experience, I recall also the experiences of my classmates who probably have the worst stories than mine as everyone is suffering in a common problem called transportation. A few weeks ago, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo shut down the idea of transport crisis when he was asked regarding that by saying, “Everybody suffers from that, that is a given, but there is no mass transport paralysis, hence there is no mass transport crisis,” he stated in the same week when fire that hit the LRT 2 line has temporarily shut down operations at the

Santolan, Katipunan and Anonas station. What an ignorant remark he just spit out of his insensitive mouth. I am one of the millions of Filipinos suffering in what he calls “no mass transport crisis”. Yet he would make a show of a one day commute challenge as if he has already experienced the years of the worst public transportation system that the Filipino commuters suffered? Maybe one day for an insensitive like him is not enough and it will never be enough, given the special treatment he received, Panelo will never be convinced of the existence of a mass transportation crisis. In short, he has defeated the purpose of the challenge, making it futile. Transportation is an issue everyone gets as most metropolitan areas have become overly dense to the detriment of existing systems of management. The

‘Fairly local’ LIMINALIST Meilinda Marie Malacat

@partyatmosbys featuresed.thelance@letran.edu.ph

Pinoy Music or OPM and thinks she can halt its culture by her mere departure? Looking at the bigger picture, what’s even more exasperating is her false idea of the local music scene these days. Claiming that Filipinos today do not patronize our own craft is a fallacy at cost. I, myself, have witnessed firsthand how local music have bloomed throughout the years—from smallscale venues such as Social House, B-Side, and Dulo to music festivals like Fête de la Musique, Madfest, and Wanderland. Crowds swarm all these events to enjoy both classic and contemporary music that vary in genre. As a matter of fact, what once was an

“indie” hobby became somehow mainstream. Back then, gigs are a bit unappreciated, but every now and then, it’s always a full house in every venue available. Sounds that used to be streamed solely on YouTube or Soundcloud have made their way to Spotify, iTunes, and even on the television. Contrary to Karencitta’s views, radio stations have been non-stop with songs even people who used to ignore OPM love now. Who has not memorized IV of Spades’ ‘Mundo’? Or who has not sung along to ‘Buwan” by Juan Karlos? Who has not heard of Moira dela Torre, December Ave., and Ben&Ben? Who has stopped listening to Eraserheads, Parokya Ni Edgar, and Orange &

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‘Orgullosos de ti y de tu historia” - One cannot celebrate the present without giving premium to the past—the bygones, the memories, and the narratives—all which served as a foundation as we reach the pinnacle of today. Looking back comes with a sense of wistfulness in delving into significant moments from years, months, or even days ago. Standing 400 strong years, Colegio de San Juan de Letran became a haven for innumerable stories of both challenges and victories. While some are better dead and buried, many of our shared histories are worthy to live on through words of our vicissitudes, which molded the world as it is. Through these, we carry on the torch of light and knowledge to layout a newfound hope. Share your stories as we honor with pride and glory Letran’s Quadricentennial Year through The LANCE’s 17th literary folio, as a concrete exhibition of our light and dark times from the past. Students, alumni, teaching faculty and staff are encouraged to submit their stories.

transportation in our country is not equipped to handle this many people and this much density, making the situation worse and misery to the Filipino people. The modern world has gone through tremendous changes that have required people to adjust their lives, making them no option but to stick with it to survive. Every morning, people have to wake up and attend their work in different places in the private and the public sectors, given reasons for the government to be alarmed and to act as a solution as soon as possible. To end, I only have a few suggestions for Panelo. Wear our shoes, acknowledge the crisis, and address possible solutions, or wear your pride, be eaten up by your ignorance and get yourself recognized as blind to millions of Filipinos suffering in transportation woes. Go and prepare your monument with splashes of tomatoes and banana peel that an ignorant like you may be deserved. Commute challenge is futile if you did not learn of a crisis that burdens Filipino people that you put in senseless words just to cover up the ignorance of this administration. Lemons? Who has not jammed to Because, Al James, and Just Hush? There’s too much to name a few. Though the intention was good, streaming local music for 24 hours is seemingly impossible. If truth be told, it’s not against the rules to adore foreign artists and their music, but at the same time, we cannot completely disregard our own. It ain’t that bad to give our local scene a spin, to attend gigs, and to be part of a bursting community of local music. We have to stop with the notion that OPM is forgotten. Despite the rise of K-pop and other Asian acts, we cannot simply deny the impact of Filipino music not just in our country but in other parts of the world. Consequently, as we gauge the level of interactions and plays, there’s also a deep sense of appreciation that should come with it. There’s just more to the world than radio waves.

When fandoms go political UNDER SPOTLIGHT Chantal Macaraeg

@chanporaduh onlineed.thelance@letran.edu.ph

This is bound to be the strangest and most specific column I’ve written. Buckle up, it’s going to be a long ride. If you’re one of those people who owned a Tumblr account as early as 2013 or 2014, chances are you witnessed the strangest happenings in the “fandom tags”. Imagine opening Tumblr because you want to look at funny text posts only to witness the face of Misha Collins all over your dashboard. Maybe you’re one of those veteran fangirls who mastered the art of fangirling in the internet. Those were the good old days. One would look for the people who share similar interest with themselves and connect with them as soon as they find their people. It’s even more fun if you’re from the same country and have high chances of meeting your “mutuals”. For quite a while, it was pure bliss. A little bit addicting too. There’s also a chance one had the “I’m not like the other girls” syndrome but it’s a topic for another day. It’s also one’s chance to connect with people with a background completely different from yours. Little did these fangirls and fanboys know, this background is about to change their lives. So why the discussion about how fandoms slowly became political overtime? Should we just stick to screaming our heads off over insanely attractive people, real or 2D? At some point, they became role models to easily impressionable minds. I was (and still am) one of those people who had high regard for their favorite. Let’s start with a fandom that could have gotten my head on a silver platter: Chinese pop music. For starters, it’s not the beloved K-Pop. It’s an entirely different genre of its own. Although it’s getting at par with K-Pop in terms of production value, C-Pop is already established long before your oppas and unnies were born. Industry-wise, it’s also stable. Not as strong as J-Pop but it definitely held its own candle. So why C-Pop? Why can’t I stick to just OPM or just K-Pop. It could be I have a taste for, as my fellow C-Pop fans affectionately call it, blender music? Are Koreans not attractive enough for me? Or am I doing this to spite people? Am I not afraid of being called a traitor to my own country? I mean, Filipinos already called K-Pop fans traitors to the country. Cool generalization by the way. Behind the well-done music videos, impressive stages, and heart-fluttering fanservices, lies the darker side of the industry. C-Pop is a niche genre compared to K-Pop. While Korean idols are only becoming more and more open about social issues, a lot of Chinese idols and actors lived according to the will of the state. Can they ignore their managers asking them to show support for China even though they aren’t even from Mainland China? Not if they want their career axed this early. The government also had a hand with the industry, speaking up becoming literally mpossible. It does hurt with how many times I have to scroll past propaganda posts. There is no way I’m going to defend them for that. Should an artist end up being actually problematic, one would be forced to decide if they should continue following them or not. Their idol made a mistake. Of course, they would reflect on their idol’s past actions. Several questions would be raised, all pointed at why did the idol act that way. Artists are just people. We elevate them to an impossible status because of our admiration towards them. All eyes are on them. They had to mold themselves into a likeable image if they want to stay. A single misstep can turn adoring admirers into vicious antis. Take Amber Liu for example. Amber is from a wellloved girl group. People loved her because she broke the norms of K-Pop on females. She would be the last person one would expect to be problematic. That is until she expressed a controversial statement that made thousands turn their backs to her. Until Amber makes amends for her mistakes, people will continue to crucify her. She couldn’t do much except for realize the severity of her actions. It’s crazy with how fast fandoms evolved over time. It’s also worth noting that fandoms could be one of the places where one would start broadening their political views. Diversity among fandom members can be one of the reasons why. Curiosity about their background would lead to a discussion. This discussion can either make a lasting impression or become forgotten in a matter of days. So the next time you see a fangirl/fanboy ranting about a political issue, don’t disregard them. Their unique insight on things could give another perspective on things.

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Exhibiting Filipino culture through ‘Archie Comics’ BY MEILINDA MARIE MALACAT

FROM THE CLASSIC Archie Comics to the modern adaptation through Netflix’ original series, ’Riverdale’, many have been familiar with Archie Andrews, Jughead Jones, Reggie Mantle, Betty Cooper, and Veronica Lodge. With its whirring plot and unexpected turns, the comic has captured the hearts of the general mass, including Filipinos. In fact, a Philippine Exclusive cover of the well-acclaimed book series has been unveiled by comic book stores, Filbar’s and Comic Odyssey, during the last day of the SuperManila Pop Culture Convention. ‘Archie and Friends Travel #1’ showcases the gang on tour in the Philippines. Illustrated by Miguel Mercado, the cover features the five lead characters posing in front of the Rizal Monument at Luneta Park. From left to right, Reggie takes a selfie, while Jughead grips the popular Filipino street food, ‘isaw’. Archie poses excitedly wearing a blue shirt with the word ‘MANILA’ printed on it. Meanwhile, Betty and Veronica show off one of Philippine’s sweet delicacies—the ‘halo-halo’. The release of Archie’s Philippine edition entails the invasion of comic and pop culture into the lives and interests of Filipinos, such as that the country’s culture is heavily represented in forms of art and literature. Despite our very own comic collections, there’s a sense of enthralment to be in the spotlight of published international works. It promotes deep respect and admiration towards one of the most promising markets globally, and it also captures other nationalities to appreciate the Filipino aesthetic. Aside from those, having a Filipino artist on the limelight opens more opportunities for other creators to expand their horizons, giving them more recognition than they all deserve in the first place. ‘Archie & Friends Travel’ will be available in November 2019.

PHOTO FROM THE INTERNET

Without a trace

BY JUSTIN SANTELICES

PERHAPS it has come across everyone’s mind at least once in their lives, the thought of running away and starting out as a “new” person— whether it’s that one major subject that you failed, or that falling-out with a long-time friend, or even just the harsh demands of life that got to you—to disappear and restart is an intriguing perspective. An exact term for this phenomenon is “johatsu”. It is a term that exists in the Japanese vernacular which roughly translates to “evaporated people”. Those who become johatsu choose to leave their lives, family, friends, identity, and really every trace of their whole existence. Typically, johatsu cases are of adults who face extreme financial debts, domestic abuse by spouses, or those driven by personal shame. The whole process of being “evaporated” is as fascinating as the thought of “evaporating“ itself. One who wishes to be a johatsu is

supposed to contact a “yonigeya”— fly-by-night shops or nighttime moving companies—which professionally handles concerns of this nature. The yonigeya will determine the price of the service based on the circumstances of the escape. It will depend, among others, on how many people are to be moved, the number of belongings to be brought, and the general gravity of the situation. In the morning bustle or in the quiet of the night, the distant sound of the yonigeya’s oncoming vehicle is but sweet music for the to-be johatsu. In a way, it is a symbol of someone’s liberation, perhaps even their “rebirth”. To be a johatsu, however, is not as simple as it seems. Indeed, one may avail the services of a yonigeya, but it is not a 100% guarantee of a better future; living life under the radar is significantly more difficult than living life normally. The new life to be led by a johatsu necessitates less communication

with the outside world in any way and form lest they catch unwanted attention from what or who they ran away from in the first place. That the madness of life is able to push someone to the limit and make them “evaporate” is a sad truth, but is a truth that must be acknowledged. Awful as it may be that “evaporated people” live only through the memories of their beloved, those who don’t want to be found won’t ever be found in the truest sense of the word. But the only direction to move is forward. The question then, other than “why did they do it?” is “what can we do now?” No one person will ever truly know what goes on inside the mind of another but everyone can try to be there for anyone. Hear what others are saying because as they say, “listening is the beginning of understanding”. And although not everyone will be able to provide practical aid, empathy will go a long way.

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Features

VO LU M E X L I I I - I S S U E 4

What transportation crisis? BY ANGELICA JOY MENDOZA

“EH ANO bang ibig sabihin nila ng transportation crisis? Ang nakikita ko lang [ay] traffic. May transportation naman ah. Nakakasakay naman tayong lahat,” Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo insisted as he stated his counterargument against activists including Bagong Alyansang Makabayan’s secretary-general Renato Reyes Jr., inherently oblivious to the struggle that Filipino commuters have been encountering on a daily basis. Every day, commuters take various transport vehicles such as jeepneys, buses, and trains. All of these means are opt to be accessible to the public in order to accomplish their almost similar agendas which are to either go to school, attend work, or solely travel to places of their choice in their leisure time. It is safe to say that commuting is already an integral part of the majority of the Filipinos’ daily lives, mainly the middle class and the lower class who resort to commuting instead of using private cars or vehicles. Although we have various means of transport, there is an undeniable and crippling systematic problem

that our toiling masses have been facing for years. The roads within the metro have become more congested by the rapidly increasing number of private cars, whilst the public vehicles continue to be scarcely insufficient to cater to the growing number of commuters which was the result of heavy and time-consuming traffic. There has been a visible impediment and impairment on the country’s transport system, perpetually worsening as time passes. Just recently, the LRT-2 has ceased operating due to the fire that was caused by the transformers which sparked up, gravely affecting the current transport system and mitigating the commuters’ mode of transportation. Jeepney drivers from all over the country also conducted a nationwide strike, protesting against the modernization of jeepneys for the reason that it would affect their livelihood due to the modern jeepney’s excessive price which does not equate to the drivers’ daily income. The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) also tried to alleviate the congested roads within EDSA which further worsened the condition of the traffic. The Duterte administration came

PHOTO FROM THE INTERNET

up with a list of solutions in order to suppress the traffic predicament, though nothing seemed to abate the problem. The masses’ suffrage exacerbates in the face of the inability to arrive at their destinations on time due to the heavy traffic and the lack of transport vehicles that could accommodate them. A day in a commuter’s life is subjected to become an aggravation and an inconvenience, a clear manifestation of a mass transport crisis. Those who experience the struggle of commuting cannot deny the fact that there is a deteriorating

Only real fans will get this BY JUSTIN SANTELICES

“STARRY, starry night, paint your palette blue and grey…” sings Don McLean in the opening line of his ’72 hit, “Vincent”. You’ve seen it before—the unmistakable strokes of blue and yellow swirls, the quiet dancing of colors in the sky, the simple beauty that is Vincent Van Gogh’s “The Starry Night”. The popular Dutch postimpressionist painter has yet again been making headlines as “Van Gogh Alive” comes to Manila. “Van Gogh Alive” is a multi-sensory art exhibit that will feature “The Starry Night” and many of his other works in a new, different, and interactive way. But equally gaining traction in the face of the exhibit is the topic of “gatekeeping”. Gatekeeping is popularly defined as “the activity of controlling, and usually limiting, general access to something.” And in the context of “Van Gogh Alive”, it came in the form of comments made by a local artist that had the online community riled up. “Van Gogh became super mainstream na kasi but most people don’t know his work as a whole” is elitism in plain sight; mainstream does not equate to being “bad”. The contention that art can only be appreciated by those who “know his work as a whole” or only by a select few with extensive knowledge for it runs in contrast to the more popular expression which holds that “art is for everyone.” Appreciating something requires no technical background. It completely disregards the fact that everything, including art, is received differently by each and every human being; Van Gogh’s “Café Terrace at Night” could very well be the most beautiful painting for the average admirer but could also be “just another painting” for

mass transport crisis within the metro and its outskirts. Panelo, denying its existence, invalidates the plight of the commuters who suffer every day just to accomplish their daily objectives. The former even accepted the challenge of commuting to Malacanan just to prove that no such crisis exists. Panelo’s mockery on the crisis agitated commuters who felt as if their daily suffrage was disregarded by the presidential spokesman. He even insisted that Filipinos are innately creative and could easily find alternative

ways to ease the hassle that they have been experiencing when they are commuting as if he was inciting that these commuters should possess resiliency like how Filipinos could easily recover after every typhoon. The Filipinos’ resiliency, though deemed as a positive attribute, shall not conceal the government’s failure to serve the masses with basic transport convenience. The public deserves a comfortable transportation experience, a safe space for commuters, accessible transport vehicles to all.

A ride down memory lane

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BY GEORGINA SANTIAGO

PHOTO FROM THE INTERNET

the most seasoned enthusiast. “But Van Gogh’s work on digital screens? I’d prefer going to a museum,” says the original poster, but the point of the “Van Gogh Alive” exhibit is to make Van Gogh’s work accessible so that you don’t have to go spend extortionate amounts in traveling abroad to see the actual thing. Suffice it is to say that not everyone can just readily go to the other side of the world. Although to her defense, she did have a valid point. Her statement that conforms to the idea of picturetaking for ‘content’ that doesn’t give respect to the artist, furthering there’s a reason why most museums don’t allow photography in the first place, rings some truth to it. Are you really “appreciating” if the only reason you’re posting it on Instagram is to let everyone know that you went there? It does not mean that you are not allowed to post on social media. It simply means that there has to be a balance between going to the

exhibit for its intended purpose and going to the exhibit to take pictures and show everyone as a “bragging rights”. Go take that selfie for IG while still appreciating Van Gogh’s work for what it is. In an apology, the original poster said, “Art is for everyone”, and indeed it is. To gate-keep Van Gogh would be to gate-keep all art. Better to let people enjoy things in their own manner than to control them on how they should. Not everyone will have the same capacity to understand the technicalities of it, so of course, everyone will have different perceptions and interpretations of art, or of anything for that matter. As has been said, appreciating requires no technical background. However, proper knowledge in the arts will bring about a better understanding of it and consequently better appreciation. Rather than to gate-keep, teach in a way that does not impose, educate in a manner that simply shares.

AFTER a devastating fire that burned the whole place down, one could simply reminisce about the memories Star City once held within its structure. First times, memories, and experiences coincide when you remember this place. Remember running around as a kid, being excited and seeing all the colorful and new scenery surrounding you—having a wide smile, jumping in place, and being so loud because you just couldn’t contain all the excitement, even if you tried to hide it—hearing your mother’s warning about getting lost, or that it’s dangerous for you to be alone—but that’s all you wanted, to explore everything and anything. Remember sacrificing comfort to be able to experience everything properly for the first time—sitting and wiggling around because you feel uncomfortable, yet at the same time, happy to do it again when someone tells, “Let’s go again!”. You’d be done when you couldn’t take it anymore but still have no regrets. Remember your very first time going out without your parents, how free and independent you feel at the moment—making decisions without thinking if your mother would let you or not, and even explaining how totally safe something is to your father before

doing it—feeling so grown up to the point when you needed to text or call your parents because it’s too late. Remember how clamorous it was with so many people screaming and laughing, but you went with it because it’s just fun screaming your head off for no reason—so much that your voice becomes raspy that you almost couldn’t talk the next day. Many have experienced those, one way or another. It wasn’t Disneyland or even any other amusement parks that people from afar would go to—hearing the artificial screams of the ‘Gabi ng Lagim’, witnessing the iconic booths with stuffed toys hanging above, and all the unique and creative rides that anyone would want to try, even laughing at people’s faces when they swing down on the ‘Star Frisbee’ while you wait in line. Star City was magical in its own way. It’s saddening to hear about the place where many people have made memorable memories and astonishing experiences burnt down. In fact, seeing the aftermath of it all, mixed emotions can’t be helped. Old or new, damaged or not, aren’t you excited that you get to witness it re-open again? Though it won’t be the same, new memories and experiences are what Star City is famous for, even if it has a new look.

NEWS

VO LU M E X L I I I - I S S U E 4

Letran signs agreement with DENR and BAPI for the national greening program BY ANDREA ANDRES

THE LETRAN Center for Community Development (CCD), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Briquettors Association of the Philippines INC. (BAPI), sealed a Memorandum of Agreement to engage in the National Greening Program in an established site at Norzaragay, Bulacan. The Director for the Center for Community Development, Asst. Prof. Leo Bernadas, representing the Colegio, together with the DENR officer under the Provincial

Environment and Natural Resources Officer of Bulacan (PENRO), Emelita P. Lingat, and BAPI which represented by its chairman Jorge P. Pasagdan joint force by signing a memorandum at the DENR’s main office at Visayas Avenue, Diliman, Quezon City, two days after the actual Quadricentennial tree planting project. “Based on cooperation, the herein parties hereby agree to enhance/ enrich the existing vegetation of the 5-hectare area located at Sitio, Barangay San Mateo, Norzagaray, Bulacan,” the statement reads.

The Memorandum will serve a three-year partnership with the three institutions and organizations. “Part ng partnership ‘yon nga to be part of the national greening program. Now, para magkaroon ng konkretong project, the DENR will provide us a planting site,” Bernadas said. Following, the document also discussed the rights and obligations of each party. As stated, Letran will support employing tree planting activities and shouldering the expenses of the project implementation.

“Ang three years na ‘yon ay binigyan tayo, nag-provide sila ng planting area for three years also. Ang location po ay sa Norzagaray, Bulacan. Ang ibinigay na area is five hectares,” Bernadas explained. Meanwhile, the DENR will be responsible for identifying the area to be adopted and the BAPI, a nonprofit People’s organization will be the one who will take care of the planted trees in the area. In line with this, the memorandum aims to go beyond the reforestation program. Aside from addressing the problems with climate change,

Knights Speak

it will also help to unveil the food security, poverty reduction, environmental stability, and biodiversity conversion. According to Bernadas, after the three-year contract, Letran will surrender the five-hectare area with the planted trees to the Briquettors Association of the Philippines, INC. The association will be responsible in nurturing, as it will be a source of livelihood and food. Moreover, Letran and DENR will sign another partnership, the department will find another area to be adopted by the institution.

Are you in favor of separate classes for boys and girls (gender segregation) in schools to avoid teenage pregnancy? Shamira Cruz, 2nd year, Communication Arts Student “Teenage pregnancy has been one of the alarming and continuous growing issues of society. Possible solutions have been presented and one of those is the separation of males and females simply gender segregation in educational institutions. I do not agree that the said solution will address the issue because I believe that it is not a gender issue that can be solved through the separation of such, but rather an issue that is rooted in lack of education.” Angelo Miguel Gundran, President, Letran Psychology Society “I am not in favor of gender segregation in schools because it does not directly address the problem. It does not make sense because students do not do sex inside classrooms. It is natural for teens to explore. If we look beyond the situation, teens would still find and do all existing ways just to have sex. If we want to avoid teenage pregnancy, proper sex education should be given, despite the country’s taboo about sex.” Mr. John Kirscel Santos, Instructor, Institute of Communication “Separating boys and girls in schools will not stop teenage pregnancy. Teenage pregnancies do not hold responsible for heterogeneousness of students in classrooms but the lack of astute to values at home and community. Social Media, as the modern-day teacher should drive more awareness of the effect of teenage pregnancy. and besides, after the class students can all meet at the cafeteria, hallways and some other school functions. We cannot stop human beings to socialize. But rather we need to educate each one of us to be knowledgable to the adverse effect of unprotected and/or premarital sex both scientifically and morally.” Asst. Prof. Efraem Janairo, Director, Guidance, and Counseling “Yes, if it is backed up by research-based evidence. On the other hand, we cannot simply separate them (males and females) without valid bases on the pros and cons. Though to avoid teen pregnancy, it is not about separating both sexes in the classrooms, but a matter of systemic school-wide approach in helping the students by educating and forming them on the value of self-care, awareness on risk-taking behaviors, the sanctity of marriage/family and building healthy relationships. We have to consider the collaborative effort with their parents/guardians is crucial, since the family is the building block and cradle of one’s values and character. Likewise, the advent role of media and technology in the lifestyle of today’s youth is something that can be harnessed as a platform to solidify positive role-modeling and live-pure advocacy. “ Joshua Andre Leonor, 2nd year, Legal Management Student “The school is a person’s training ground because it shapes a person’s mind and character. Gender segregation is a mistake and should not be practiced because it creates difficulties in the future such as in work or even in a person’s abilities. Teenage pregnancy can’t entirely be avoided by segregating classrooms because life doesn’t end inside the four corners of a classroom. It depends on the student if he “wants it” or not. It won’t be able to prevent teenage pregnancy, while in fact, it can cause serious problems in the future. The psychological factor is that people won’t be able to interact properly with those of the opposite sex, especially those who don’t even socialize after school. The school is the only place for them to be exposed to people. This is why I believe that classrooms should stay as coeducational, to train students to maintain good connections with each other and if you ask me, other solutions should be looked upon for teenage pregnancy that would not damage the capabilities of a student.”

Marion Ramos, Psychology Senator, Letran Student Council “I am not in favor of implementing gender segregation in schools to avoid teenage pregnancy. Separating men from women is not the solution concerning that problem; education is. If we properly educate youth about the risks of having unsafe sex, we do not only lessen the number of teenage pregnancy cases, but we also prevent or minimize the chances of them getting sexually transmitted diseases.” Joanna Ymbong, 1st year, Bachelor of Secondary Education\ “No. Gender separation in the classroom has nothing to do with teenage pregnancy. Some of the teenagers are impulsive and some are just being liberated. They only want to be “in” to the trend. Generation Z are up to exploring things that are beyond their limitations. Relationships can be formed outside the campus, that is why gender separation in the classroom does not help the problem.” Charmaine Yatco, President, Letran Student Council “Sa opinyon ko, hindi ako pabor sa paghihiwalay ng babae at lalaki sa loob ng mga silid-aralan kung gagawin ito upang maiwasan ang pagbubuntis ng mga kabataan sa panahon natin. Naniniwala ako na lahat tayo ay mayroong pagkakataong magdesisyon sa kahit na anong bagay na gagawin natin kung kaya’t ang pagbubuntis nang maaga ay hindi natin maaaring isisi sa pagsasama ng mga mag-aaral na lalaki at babae sa iisang silid-aralan.” Jhala Mae Nicole I. Mendoza, President, Letran Peer Facilitators Association “I am not for the segregation of classes according to sexes if the sole purpose of it is to avoid teenage pregnancy. The term avoid is parallel to the words to shun, to keep away and/or refrain. This word is saying the phrase “better safe than sorry”, it is better to be safe than sorry, however, If we focus on avoiding teenage pregnancy rather than addressing it, we’d somewhat be promoting ignorance. It is the same as elders saying “huwag kang lalapit diyan kasi masama ‘yan” just because we avoid it doesn’t mean we won’t ever be faced with the situation. We have the right to be informed and the right to education. A vague answer will not solve anything. Let’s not limit ourselves to black and white knowledge of dos and don’t but include understanding because if we know and understand why we can make a change to improve our situations.” Ryan Justine Bautista, President, Letran Future Educators’ Society “The separation of boys and girls in schools will not stop teenage pregnancy. Research has identified many risk factors for teenage pregnancy, but co-education is not one of them. All we need to work on here is to design a new curriculum that provides proper gender and sex education and values formation that will make the students more aware of the consequences of their wrong decisions and actions. Also, co-educational environments bridge the equality gap between different genders. Institutions that practice this philosophy treat their students equally with no preference for gender. Lastly, this co-educational system promotes opportunities for socialization. Students from same-gender classrooms might struggle to interact with members of the opposite sex after they graduate. This struggle can impact multiple layers of their life, including job opportunities which may require frequent interactions with someone of another gender.”

News

OCTOBER ISSUE

Gen XYZ: What’s your story?

PHOTO BY ANGELA DAVOCOL

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PHOTO BY LETRAN JUNIOR MARKETING ASSOCIATION

PHOTOS BY CHRISTELLE HARO

BY ANDREA ANDRES

ON ITS 41st Theater Season, Teatro de Letran brought back Gen XYZ with new stories by Jericho Zafra, JC Poblete, and Roni Mae Serrano. The play features nine stories that spanned across three generations, the restaging also served as a preview show for the first Chiang Mai Fringe Festival of Arts happening on October 27, at the Kad Studio Theatre, Chang Mai Thailand. The play features one-act plays in English, Filipino and Ilonggo, with translation being provided real-time on-screen. The show opened with “Hashtag I don’t care”, which laid out the foundation for the rest of the show. Various societal concerns were expressed, with the “centennials” responding with a nonchalant “I

don’t care!”. Sadly, this isn’t far off from real life. Every day, people choose to remain blissfully ignorant of what is happening outside their bubble. Gen XYZ was divided into three parts. Each generation featured issues that were still relevant today from the techno-savvy and trendy Gen Z to the curious but exasperated Gen X who wanted nothing other than fair treatment. Each story was told in a way befitting their generation and at the same time connect with the current audience. ‘Saka Na’ and ‘Uuwi na’ cried for their parents’ suffering. The two issues presented are tied towards the same thing: the economy tying them down. Their parents aren’t left with much choice other than to do their jobs. Eventually, their

jobs would be passed down to their children. Outrage and desperation could be felt in their acting. Their demands to know why they had to be the ones to suffer. ‘Vlogging 101’, ‘I Am Not Asking for It’ and ‘Partee Crashing’ put a lighter mood to the otherwise severe and somber mood throughout the play. The playful satire of Vlogging 101 and the empowered I Am Not Asking for It presented issues that plagued the youth of today. Rapid developments in technology have brought us closer to one another. In Vlogging 101, oversharing and capitalism has proven to be a fatal combination. The desire to be in the spotlight, no matter how problematic the content may be, will always outweigh others. Social media has also given women a platform to PHOTO FROM THE OSWD speak out.

Partee Crashing portrayed the pressure of society on young minds. Dark humor masked the reality of failing the board exams. Society looked down on those who failed the exams unless a tear-jerking story would back up why they failed. The bloody reminder of Oplan Tokhang was the theme of the War on Drugs. The actor ran around in a frenzy as he prayed today won’t be his last. Unfortunately, luck wasn’t on his side once the gun went off. As a tribute to teachers for National Teachers Month, an ironic tale of a student who hated her teacher so much she admired her teacher’s selflessness and passion to serve others. Her teacher continued to teach despite the struggles. Nothing, not even a student hating them, would stop them from enlightening young minds.

The use of Ilonggo has surprised the audience. According to the Edsel Fusio, it was also the first time they used a language outside of the usual Filipino. The issue of trans people in the bathrooms sparked debate throughout the country. Questions regarding viewed on sexuality and gender have been raised. Are they to be considered equal to their cis counterparts? Or are they stuck forever between the two, forever questioning themselves? The show ends with “Generations We Create”, an original composition by Martin Apolinario. As the curtain falls, one would wonder about the state of today’s youth. Each story was created from a generation yet the message still rings true until today.

Sports The Lance

VICTORY. CEIT emerged as champion in Letramurals 2019. PHOTO BY ADRIAN AGUILAR

CEIT completes three-peat bid in Letramurals 2019 BY ALYSSA AQUINO

THE COLLEGE of Engineering and Information Technology (CEIT) reigned supreme in this year’s Letramurals as they complete their three-peat bid to win the overall title. Dubbed as the House of Artemis,

CEIT completed the last piece of their championship puzzle after winning the cheerdance competition during the closing day of Letramurals. Team captain Taj Insigne, who also played a vital part in the team’s basketball campaign, shared his joy in winning the title.

“Grabe, ‘nung i-announce yung 3-peat lahat sobrang saya, parang lahat ‘nung pagod ng bawat participant ng nagbunga,” he said. CEIT topped three of eight games, taking home the cup of cheerdance, chess, and bowling with runner-up finishes in basketball and e-games.

The success was not only earned by the participants but was made possible by each and every member from their institution. The senior Civil Engineering student also thanked the support of the whole CEIT community and is confident that CEIT will claim its fourth overall title next year.

“Sila dean pati ‘yung mga professors namin at ‘yung mga officers na nagpapasched para sa training ng participants,” said Insigne. “Naniniwala ako sa kakayahan ng CEIT and alam ko na gagawin ng [CEIT] lahat para makuha yung 4-peat,” he added.

BY ALYSSA AQUINO

“Nag-struggle talaga kami sa paghanap ng members,” she added. Adding to the challenge is the pressure of bagging CEIT’s third bid to the overall championship. “Nasa amin talaga ‘yung pressure, natalo ‘yung basketball namen against marketing (CBAA I) kaya kinabahan kami, baka mag-tie kami sa overall [score] and cheerdance po ‘yung deciding factor for overall championship,” said Turla. In the end, despite the time constraint, Turla never doubted his team and felt confident that her squad will be able to pull it off. The team is also thankful for the support of the whole CEIT community. “Hindi kami pinabayaan ni God and ng CEIT community during the competition. Thankful kami na napakasupportive ng CEIT dean’s office,” she added.

CEIT dethrones CBAA I in cheerdance competition

PHOTO BY ADRIAN AGUILAR

CBAA I outlasts CEIT to capture Letramurals basketball crown BY ALYSSA AQUINO

AFTER failing to secure the crown last year, the College of Business and Accountancy (CBAA I) have finally claimed the elusive championship in the Letramurals 2019 basketball tournament after escaping with an 81-79 victory against the College of Engineering and Information Technology (CEIT), last October 21, at the Manila Bulletin Covered Gym. The men in yellow dominated the Letramurals and posted a perfect 7-0 slate in the whole tournament. “Disiplina lang kailangan para manalo at good team effort,” said CBAA II team captain Lester Ariate. Last year’s loss inspired the team to overcome this years’ challenge. “Masaya kasi, last year napahiya kami. Tapos kulang-kulang mga player namin kasi ‘yung iba nag-tour sa Korea,” said Ariate.

Masaya ako na nabawi namin ang championhip pero malakas parin CEIT wala ako masabi,” he added. Moreover, the team is thankful for the support of their College Dean and fellow CBAA students that made their championship campaign possible. “Salamat sa mga sumuporta lalo na kay Dean Kenji [Asano] tapos sa mga students ng Marketing and other courses na belong samin,” said Ariate. CBAA’s floor general Avick Valeriano was named as the tournament MVP while Bryan Clemente was one of the Mythical 5. Nevertheless, the fourth year Marketing Management student major credited his whole team, for their teamwork, and determination to step-up. “Sobrang saya ko na nanalo kami this kasi last na year na namin this year. ‘Yung mga bata naman bahala next year para makapag back-to-back champion,” he added.

THE COLLEGE of Engineering and Information Technology ended Letramurals 2019 as they nabbed this year’s championship in the cheerdance competition despite struggles forming the team. Team captain Neriza Turla bared the challenges that they faced during their preparation for the annual event. “We really had a hard time training kasi almost frosh lahat ng sasayaw and walang experience sa cheerdance,” said Turla. “Tapos yung routine namin is level up from last year,” she added. Another challenge that impeded the team’s campaign was the recruiting process. “Nahirapan kami kase two weeks na lang, wala pa kaming coach, and members are not yet complete the time,” said Turla.

PHOTO FROM THE LETRAN JUNIOR MARKETING ASSOCIATION

CHAMPION. Team Ares receives the championship trophy after taking down Team Artemis.