The Leaf Vol. 55 No. 1

VOL. 55 NO. 1 | AUGUST – DECEMBER 2021

Foreword From weathered bleachers that collect zealous students to packed relief goods that symbolize the power of collective philanthropy and ornaments that complete the classic Christmas scene, this issue’s cover shows how much change has occurred over the past two years, and how much more must follow for all to truly heal.

These changes are evident in the way the school has conducted its usual activities. Highlights such as the Virtualympics and Festival of Talents upped the ante from last

Cover by:

2

Yuna Guilliane Jimenez Amavel Hannah Atip Guila Mhaecel Punzalan

year’s execution and affirmed that limitations can be leveraged to catalyze creativity within an ever-dauntless community.

Moreover, rising rates of vaccination are being reflected in the gradual relaxation of health protocols in most areas, leading to an increase in public activity.

While still not completely lenient, this is the next step towards restoring the norms that were lost when the pandemic struck.

Even the country will undergo a change of leaders come May. Those selected by the people will inherit a volatile

country marred by a host of medical, economic, and social issues, and will determine the immediate future of struggling Filipinos.

However, amid all these, The Leaf holds steadfast to its commitment of telling the stories of the Teresian community.

Though the online modality has indeed affected our operation, rest assured that our dedication to campus journalism will never be compromised. Just as the truth remains unwithered, so do those who fight to uphold it.

Table of

Contents 5

Bleeding Through Plastered Pasts

6

End of the Line

8 9 10 12 14

Celebrating Our Everlasting Devotion Acad elites raise banner in inter-school tilts

18

The Night of Christmas Grieve

19

Wishful Thinkers

20

Of Misgivings and Yuletide Yearnings

22

Mister President, Are You There?

23

Borderline Baseless Benefits

24

Lihis sa Daang Matuwid

25

Newfound Frontier

27

Athletes Go Digital in First-ever Virtualympics

28

Del-Talk of the Town

Batches clash in talent fest

Engilsh dept fosters comm arts in learners

Let the Lady Lead

15

Rallying for Freedom

16

Hell Week Horrors

3

EDITORIAL PROPER

4

Artwork by: Yuna Guilliane Jimenez

BLEEDING THROUGH

PLASTERED PASTS In what can be described as one of the most egregious failings of this generation, social media platforms saw a surge of posts celebrating the martial law years under former President Ferdinand Marcos on the anniversary of its declaration. This is just one among the many schemes of the pro-Marcos movement to rewrite history in their favor for the upcoming national elections, and must be met with skepticism and vigilance.

To be clear, The Leaf is not against having differences in opinion as these allow for meaningful discussion to occur. it will not, however, tolerate the proliferation of misinformation through the erroneous interpretation of facts and historical revision.

Take for example the anticommunist rhetoric parroted by its supporters—that without martial law, the country would have been overrun by the Communist Party of the Philippines. In truth, the rise in insurgency was a response to the already-growing public dissatisfaction with the government during Marcos’s second term. This led to the formation of the Muslim Independence Movement, which preceded the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF).

Communist groups were merely a scapegoat for Marcos as he had started planning for martial law well before any threats necessitated it. Vera Files reported that he tasked then Defense Minister Juan Ponce Enrile with studying the extent of presidential powers granted by the 1935 Constitution just months

after his re-election. In 1986, Enrile himself confessed that the drive-by assassination attempt against him, which was used as the ultimate reason for declaring martial law, was staged.

of the regime’s human rights violations as leftist propaganda. Imagine trying to explain a physics problem to a classmate who refuses to look at the numbers.

Or what about the claim that it ushered in the “golden age” of the Philippines, citing a flourishing economy and infrastructures built that supposedly put us on par with developed countries. This is blatantly false, as it overlooks the over $26-billion debt in which Marcos had sunk the country by the time he was ousted.

Years of foreign loans subjected to mismanagement and corruption by the administration forced the president to declare bankruptcy and seek debt moratorium in 1983.

Ironically, in this age of information, fake news runs rampant.

Thus, you must take it upon yourself to verify claims and call out misinformation.

No, Marcos did not gain his wealth from some respectable source, most of it was embezzled. No, primary sources are not necessarily more reliable than secondary ones, they just describe the relationship between the information and the source. And no, not all sources that contradict your opinions were paid off by the opposition.

Furthermore, the standards of living sank across the board during the dictatorship. Data from the Martial Law Museum show that from the time Marcos took office in 1965 to his eviction, the percentage of Filipinos living below the poverty line rose from 40% to 60%. For every ₱100 that skilled workers earned in 1962, they only earned ₱28 in 1985; unskilled workers earned even less. Its effects were worsened by the drastic increase in the prices of goods. From a baseline of ₱100 in 1978, prices reached ₱350 in 1986. Clearly, these golden years were nothing more than fool’s gold.

And of course, you see the consistent arguments that go, “you were not alive during that time” or “my grandparents said their lives were peaceful.” These statements are shallow since they dismiss decades of literature on and first-hand accounts

But most importantly, remember that no degree of economic growth, even exaggerated, can ever justify the censorship, arrest, and slaughter of those who sought to speak. The sheer inhumanity with which Marcos has stained the pages of our past makes him undeserving of his burial at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.

Just as those who do not learn from history are doomed to repeat it, so are those who fall victim to one that has been twisted. Ferdinand Marcos is not the hero others make him out to be. To celebrate martial law under the dictator’s regime is to spit in the faces of countless corpses and empty graves that haunt the Marcos Era.

5

NEWS | IN-DEPTH

Ikea rose mercado

President Rodrigo Duterte has been weighing in on his achievements and failures during his five years in the presidency since he took office on June 30, 2016.

The president claims that his greatest achievement in the last five years was to take on the country’s wealthiest and most powerful tycoons, whom he refers to as the “oligarchy.” He did, however, remark about his 2016 promises, including the war on illegal drugs and corruption, his commitment to address Metro Manila traffic, and the economic progress under his watch.

Killing: War on drugs Duterte considers drug trafficking and addiction as “huge obstacles” to the Philippines’ economic and social advancement, making the drug war a cornerstone of his domestic policy and a continuation of programs he began earlier in his political career as the mayor of Davao.

Similarly, he launched a drug war that resulted in the extrajudicial killings of thousands of alleged drug dealers and users across the country. To date, nearly 12,000 Filipinos, largely urban poor, have died because of this. The Philippine National Police (PNA) has been blamed for at least 2,555 deaths.

Based on the data from the government, more than 52% of the country’s 42,045 barangays have been cleared of illegal substances in the five years since the drug war began, while more than 31 percent have yet to be cleared. With this, the controversial “Tokhang” operations continued, in which authorities knocked on the houses of alleged drug dealers and users, and asked them to surrender and enroll in government rehabilitation programs.

Meanwhile, Human Rights Watch claimed that police forged evidence to justify the unjust deaths. Although human rights organizations and political leaders have condemned the crackdown, Duterte has been relatively successful in preventing any significant inspection or investigation of the war.

Rushing: Build, Build, Build In 2017, the Duterte administration launched Build, Build, Build (BBB), which has been dubbed the “centerpiece” economic program. With 75 original projects totaling at least P8.4 trillion in the pipeline, this was supposed to usher in a “golden age of infrastructure” in the Philippines. BBB seeks to boost infrastructure spending and expand industries, resulting in strong growth, job creation, and a better quality of life for Filipinos.

However, front-line agencies such as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) failed to address chronic issues, including a lack of absorptive capacity, leading to underspending and spending delays. The government’s ability to disburse infrastructure funds has lagged its ability to contract out such funds.

In his final year, Duterte continues to pursue its flagship BBB program, investing another trillion pesos in infrastructure projects until 2022. In the 2022 National Expenditure Program (NEP) filed to Congress, the executive branch proposed a total appropriation of P1.18 trillion for public works and transportation initiatives, which is approximately a quarter of the planned P5-trillion national budget for next year.

Duterte has urged concerned government agencies to rush the

6 Artworks by: Amavel Hannah Atip

END OF T

The Duterte Le

construction of “Build, Build, Build” projects to create millions of jobs and benefit the public. In his remarks during the commissioning of the Davao River Bridge, he said that creating several infrastructure projects would help the country’s unemployment.

Neglecting: Endo promise One of Duterte’s 2016 campaign promises, which propelled him to become president, was to abolish labor contractualization. To address the issue of unfair labor contracting practices, Duterte has called on Congress to establish a bill that will provide workers with job security. However, in July 2019, he vetoed the Security of Tenure (SOT) Bill, claiming that it “unduly broadens the scope and definition of prohibited labor-only contracting, effectively prohibiting types of contractualization that are not particularly unpleasant to the employees involved.”

Labor groups said they were no longer surprised by a presidential adviser’s remark that President Rodrigo Duterte’s priority in his final year in power was no longer banning the end of the contract (endo) or labor contractualization.

According to them, Duterte has shown that his campaign vow to eliminate the practice of endo for workers denied regular employment status has been a “farce” since 2019.

Furthermore, according to Sergio Ortiz-Luis, president of the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), the president is unlikely to sign a new “endo” bill that would prohibit all forms of contractualization for workers, especially amid the pandemic.

Meanwhile, Malacañang denied that President Rodrigo Duterte broke his vow to end labor-only contracting in the country after he vetoed the Security of Tenure Bill. They affirmed that President Duterte never followed through on his campaign vow to abolish worker contractualization. Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque reiterated Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello’s statement that Duterte is still committed to fulfilling his promise to pass the Security of Tenure Bill before his term ends.

Expanding: Oligarchy After winning a case against the government, Duterte was overly pleased with persuading Manila Water and Maynilad, both owned by Ayala Corporation and Manny V. Pangilinan, to drop their demands for billions of pesos. His 2019 outbursts also resulted in the cancellation of government contracts with Manila Water and Maynilad, and the replacement of such contracts with deals deemed “fairer” by Duterte.

Duterte’s attacks on ABS-CBN, which is owned by the powerful Lopez family, have resulted in lawmakers rejecting a new franchise for the broadcast network as part of his campaign to destroy the “oligarchy.” The country’s largest media network was shut down because of Duterte’s tirades. He also persuaded Lucio Tan’s Philippine Airlines to pay a P6-billion debt to the government, and the Wongchukings of Mighty Corporation to pay a P30-billion tax evasion settlement,

THE LINE

egacy in Review

the country’s largest ever.

Nevertheless, Duterte’s efforts against big businesses have not been praised. His attacks on the Lopezes were seen as politically motivated, and they were closely linked to his attacks on the free press and critical voices. His flashy threats against the Ayalas and Pangilinans, as well as the cancellation of deals, raised concerns that the government did not value contract integrity.

Strengthening: Dealings with China The Philippines has earned investments which numerous experts and academics regard as “corrosive capital” that has led to “undermining good governance practices and weakening of institutions.” More Chinese businesses have emerged under Duterte’s leadership, but the Chinese government’s promises of billions in infrastructure projects appear to have gone through, forcing the Philippines’ economic team to turn to other private firms.

Duterte pledged that Beijing’s help to the Philippine economy would result in real benefits when he embraced China early in his presidency. After more than five years in power, he does not have much to show in terms of significant benefits for Filipinos.

Meanwhile, China’s projects have been cloaked in secrecy and have sparked debate. The Philippine government has made only minor steps toward transparency and accountability in response to concerns that it was risking national security in exchange for loans and aid.

Missing: Covid response In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Philippine government claimed to have the foresight to implement a lockdown in major cities and provinces as early as March 16, 2020. On the other hand, Manila’s general response to the pandemic has been characterized by inefficiency and panic.

Duterte has taken a militaristic approach to the coronavirus outbreak, in spite of the fact that the worldwide problem is first and foremost a public health priority. He pushed the idea that “undisciplined” residents are to be blamed for the difficulties that have emerged since the lockdown began. Without admitting any management failures, he has regularly claimed baseless rebel group activity as a threat to government aid programs.

As of September this year, the Philippines has one of the worst COVID-19 outbreaks in Southeast Asia. The country also has one of the highest death rates in the region, highlighting the country’s strained public health system.

During his national address, President Duterte admitted that the “government is desperate now.” His fellow illiberal populists throughout the world have mismanaged the initial phase of the crisis when they had time to listen to medical professionals and put protocols in place to stop the virus from spreading.

Fumbling: Funds for SEA games The two nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) in charge of organizing the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games have failed to recover the P2.767 billion paid by taxpayers to host the regional event more than 13 months after it was staged in the nation. State auditors found that, despite demand letters, the Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee (Phisgoc) has not accounted for the P2.2 billion in government financial aid it got, and that the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) has not yet liquidated P535 million.

The POC has threatened to sue Phisgoc for failing to submit its financial report for the Games. According to Commission on Audit (COA) regulations, the report should have been finished by Feb. 9, 2020, two months after the South East Asian Games (SEAG) concluded in December and more than a month before COVID-19 shut down the National Capital Region, including government offices.

In a press conference, Salvador Panelo welcomed the Ombudsman’s decision to form a fact-finding committee to investigate individuals who handled the funds, including the Phisgoc led by House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano.

Cayetano established and chaired the (Phisgoc), which was given P6.8 billion to fund the SEAG, and undertook the fraught with controversy, charges of overpricing, and painful incompetence that President Duterte himself was forced to apologize to participating Asian countries on the eve of the Games.

On November 29, 2020, Duterte issued a public apology for the claimed issues that afflicted the country’s hosting of the South East Asian Games. He notified the people that an investigation would begin once the regional sports meet concluded. He also stated in an interview that if the P6-billion budget had been spent “properly,” problems in the hosting of the SEA Games could have been averted.

Lacking: Support to athletes The Malacañang announced on July 27, 2021, that government funding for the country’s athletes was insufficient, a struggle Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz faced before making history. Diaz, a weightlifter, revealed the seeming lack of government support in 2019 when she found private-sector sponsorship before winning the Philippines’ first Olympic gold in 97 years. And she is not alone.

According to a GMA News investigation, the Philippine sports industry is severely underfunded compared to its neighbors. The Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) barely made P800 million in 2015.

PSC is primarily supported by income from two government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs). Only a small portion of the national budget is set aside for this purpose. The rest of its income comes from GOCC earnings, one of which cannot be counted on to offer a reliable source of funds. Due to the government’s continued austerity measures, the government is unable to effectively fund Philippine sports initiatives. The government is quick to take credit but slow to refund expenses such as training, accommodation, travel, registration, and meals.

7

C O N N E C T E D B Y FA I T H

Celebrating Our Everlasting Devotion Mharq GHierzey Abe

ship, a rosary, the Sun, and

Nazareth, which he then

the Philippine flag’s

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the

In 1521, Ferdinand Magellan

color scheme.

reached the island of Cebu and

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events that this milestone has

introduced Christianity to the

In

2021,

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Filipinos. The Philippines is

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making of a few songs. One of

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awaited

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these remarkable songs is “Awit ng

anniversary of the introduction

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Misyon” by Carlo Magno, a song

of Christianity. This milestone

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Pope

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unwavering faith and devotion

started

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celebration early with a

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was thoroughly planned, with

Peter’s Basilica, Rome, on the 14th

trust in God. Then he talked about

what has come and what is still

the

of

of March, at ten in the morning.

the Pentecost– of how Mary is

to come. This heartwarming song

preparation dating back to 2018.

Only a few people were permitted

everybody’s mother and how

was played at one of our school’s

It was in that year that Philippine

inside during the Mass because of

she is always by their side. After

events.

President Rodrigo Duterte planned

safety protocols. The event was,

for the event to be centered on

however, live-streamed on several

Filipinos.

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earliest-known

8

used to represent

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record

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and expresses gratitude for both

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on

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YouTube,

accompanied by translations.

Duterte issued an executive order

for the celebration of the event.

celebration officially began. The

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main event of that day was the

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opening of the “Holy Doors” in

of

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all the pilgrim churches across

Conference of the Philippines, led

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by Bishop Pablo Virgilio David.

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speaking of these three things, he

This year-long event will be

chosen as the theme, which was

the Philippines.

also addressed the undying faith

celebrated until April 2022. In the

derived from Matthew 10:8. This

that Filipinos have and encouraged

same month, the 2nd National

the listeners to keep passing on

Missional Congress will be held.

this strong faith. He concluded his

speech by stating that Filipinos

celebrate the glorious event of

should continue moving forward

the first time Christianity was

and that he is always with them.

introduced to us Filipinos, for it

On April 14, a few more

truly makes up a lot of who we are.

events are to be remembered

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and celebrated, most of them

with the Lord has gone through,

revolving around the early days

it is only appropriate to honor the

of Christianity in Cebu. One of the

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events celebrated on that day was

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the first baptisms in the country.

brothers and sisters.

by

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On that same day, Pope

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September 8, 2019. On that day,

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were held, with churches baptizing

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Photos by: The Malolos Chorale Ensemble Angie de Silva/Rappler

NEWS

Proving once more that excellence runs in the community, several Teresians claimed victory in various competitions throughout the year.

On-point at ON-KAT Sta. Teresa College once more joined the fray at the Online Karibok ang Tuktok after skipping the event two years prior. It consisted of contests for elementary, junior high, and senior high levels held from November 8 to 12.

Jerome Ceralde and Shacelle Caldoza bagged 2nd in essay writing and 3rd in dagliang talumpati in the senior high division, respectively. Audrey Geanne Padua also placed 5th in pagsulat ng sanaysay, junior high division.

Moreover, the grade school contenders had a field day. Arc Jean Dalawangbayan finished 2nd in pagsulat ng sanaysay; Precious Chloe Abrugena, 3rd in poster making; Julia Louraine Carmona, 4th in digital art making; and Gerico Arce, 5th in photo contest.

For Caldoza, the competition was more exciting than nerve-wracking.

According to her, she did not feel too nervous on the day of the contest since she looked forward to proving her mettle for the

Acad elites raise banner in inter-school tilts STC community.

On the other hand, Mrs. Carolyn Agbing, coach of the senior high school quiz bee team, expressed how the participants could have benefited from a longer period of preparation.

“There should be a thorough, longterm preparation instead of just days or weeks before the contest. Ideally, students should be preparing everyday…especially these days, marami nang distractions,” she stated.

In its first iteration of the online format, the event added digital art making and filmmaking categories to its usual roster of events; only extemporaneous speech, dagliang talumpati, and quiz bee were conducted synchronously.

Aces in arithmetic

Meanwhile, Brianne Raphaelle Mae I. Dela Luna clinched bronze at the Thailand International Mathematical Olympiad Heat Round, Primary I division held last October 24.

This was facilitated by the Math Olympiad’s Training League Incorporated (MOTLI), the local partner of the Olympiad Champion Education Center based in Hong Kong.

To prepare for the event, Dela Luna enrolled in the Math Education Program conducted by the Asian Math-Sci League, Inc. (AMSLI) Philippines, on top attending the Kumon program.

Despite having competed at the international level at a young age, her mother believes that she would not be subjected to unnecessary pressure in the future since she inherently enjoys studying.

When asked about what others may emulate from her to likewise excel at math, she summed up her answers in two points: study hard and listen to one’s parents.

Ceralde also competed in the Singapore International Math Olympiad Challenge, Senior Division last June. He qualified after scoring at the 80th percentile in the Singapore Math Global Assessment conducted by AMSLI through Zoom earlier in April.

THE LEAF NEWS TEAM 9

NEWS

Batches clash in Talent Fest To celebrate the festive season and the Christmas holiday, Sta. Teresa College held the Festival of Talents Competition with the theme, “Splendid Teresian Christmas,” December 15 at 8 am.

Each group received a special award: the primary pupils were awarded Best in Concept; grade 7 students, Best in Talent Presentation; grade 8, Best in Production; grade 9, Best in Talent Presentation; grade 10, Best in Theatrical Presentation; grade 11, Best in Musical Production; and grade 12, Best in Digital Presentation.

Mr. Manrique Cabaya, 10

Photos by: STC Official FB Page

the Cultural Affairs Moderator, explained the significance of the number 81 coinciding with the school’s 81st founding anniversary—there are eight levels in the basic education department with one, unified cultural guild, hence the new format.

W h e n asked about the plan for next year’s Christmas event, Mr. Cabaya said that they would refresh the format to accommodate more in-person interactions should

the situation with the pandemic permit. As such, the community should not expect a mere repeat of what has been done.

“We’re still waiting. Malay mo next year, magkaroon na ng face-to-face [classes]. For the past two years magkakaiba siya... innovation really gives a challenge to STC. This innovation leads us to the discovery of such talents.”

As part of the celebration, the Teresian community, including the staff, students, and faculty, proudly shared the result of the “Teresians Gifted to Give 2021” outreach program.

According to Ms. Romela Aranas, the program’s targeted beneficiaries were the “least, lost, and last,” pertaining to children in greater need, people in prison, and senior citizens, respectively.

Through this, she said, we are able to respond to the church’s call to be gifted to give.

“Bilang mga biniyayaan— bilang mga gifted— tayo ay hinahamong makapagbigay, at ito ay isang challenge sa atin ng simbahan. Hanggang sa ngayon ay patuloy pa rin tayong tumatanggap ng donations at ang paaralan ay patuloy pa ring naghahanap ng mga beneficiaries.”

On December 12, the STC Family Council held a virtual Christmas Presentation for a Cause to raise funds for the school’s scholarship program as well as the council’s projects and activities for this academic year.

STC alumni who had benefited from the scholarship program also shared their experiences at STC.

“As of today, with the help of a scholarship provided by Sta. Teresa College to finish my college degree, I can say that I am very stable in my chosen career. I already finished my master’s degree in business administration and [attained]

professional education units at Batangas State University,” said Allan G. Villanueva Jr., an alumni scholar from Batch 2018.

Mr. Robert Lopez and Mrs. Nat Magpantay enumerated the sponsors for the program, which notably included Hon. Mayor Ryanh M. Dolor, Comm. Atty. Nicasio “Nick” Conti, Board Member Wilson Rivera, Vice Mayor Bojie Casapao, and First Bay Power Corp.

To date, the program has accrued more or less ₱240,000 in donations for the scholarship program.

As the event came to a close, Mrs. Joan Kristel Adame, the head

FC holds virtual concert for scholars of the Junior High School Guidance Office, gave a speech for the scholars, advising them to be proud of the opportunities they have to further their dreams.

The Leaf news Team

STC venerates patroness feast

To commemorate the feast day of St. Teresa de Avila, the Teresian community held a series of events from October 7–15 via Facebook live.

It began with the presentation and giving honor to the relic of Sta. Teresa de Avila, followed by a Eucharistic celebration led by Rev. Fr. Carlo Magno Ilagan.

He also discussed the donation program conducted by the STC Family Council, and encouraged everyone to participate in the donation program as a way of celebrating the feast day.

“The best way to celebrate our feast day is to share our blessings to other people,” he stated.

Furthermore, the school conducted a donation drive on Oct. 13 to 15. The drive entailed sharing food and other essentials from funds collected through Gcash.

Mrs. Librada Cabral, a Family Council Representative, said that the donation program involved school administrations, staff, and parents.

“We appreciated those who responded to this program. God will return in full and overflow your generosity,” she added.

11

NEWS

English dept fosters comm arts in learners In commemoration of English month, the English Department organized a series of contests and seminars for the basic education department with the theme, “Hurdling Challenges through Transcending English Communications Skills, Creativity, and Collaboration” last November.

Traditionally-held

competitions—namely, book talk for grades 4 to 6, declamation for grades 7 and 8, dramatic monologue for grades 9 and 10, feature writing for grades 10 to 12, and extemporaneous speech for grades 11 and 12—were translated to an online format.

These categories were selected at the discretion of each levels’ respective English teachers.

Meanwhile, the seminars were a new addition to the set of activities, and tackled different topics related writing.

Ms. Angelica Castillo, the English coordinator, explained that the events were conducted in an effort to resume the usual activities that were put on hiatus due to the shift to online learning.

“I believe we are going to improve these activities... Of course, we are not still sure who the next coordinator will be, but we are planning to make the seminars sequential so that the topics next year will build upon what had been discussed,” she added.

The Leaf news Team To celebrate Buwan ng Wika, Sta. Teresa College (STC) held the Pampinid na Palatuntunan which featured performances from the cultural guild, teachers, and the family council last August 31.

In accordance with the national theme “Filipino at mga Wikang Katutubo sa Dekolonisasyon ng Pag-iisip ng mga

12

Pilipino,” the program focused on inspiring the community to utilize the Filipino languages.

Mr. Leo Martinez, the former Director General of the Film Academy of the Philippines, appeared as the guest speaker for the program.

His speech centered on his experiences before becoming the model of the “Batangueño

culture” in the industry and gained the moniker “congressman manhik-manaog.”

“Huwag natin ikahiya ang mga salita natin na tayo lang ang nakakaintindi,” Martinez said.

Prior to the Pampinid, STC presented two feature videos on well-known karunungang-bayan and the traditional dance Subli.

Buwan ng Wika marks patriotism

Campus opens for F2F simbang gabi

Resuming the annual event, the Lipa Archdiocesan Catholic Schools Association (LIDICSA) hosted the online 2021 LIDICSA Teen Festival on October 29 via Zoom and Facebook live with the theme “Charity in Faith Shared Through Mission: Gifted to Give, Gifted to Give.”

This year’s objective focused on youth, their relationship with God, and their mission in life.

Separate sessions

were held for grade 10 and senior high students.

“To be young is living the present to the full, spending our energies with good things, cultivating fraternity, therefore, following Jesus, and making the most of life’s little joys as gift of God—Christus Vivit #147,” Archbishop Garcera expressed.

Afterwards, the program continued with talks from various guest speakers.

Teresian families join virtual rosary rally

After more than a year of staying at home and celebrating simbang gabi virtually, STC, along with other churches across the country, opened a face-toface simbang gabi open for all.

Starting on October 15, Fr. Carlo Magno Ilagan presided over each simbang gabi in line with the upcoming Christmas celebration.

Strict health protocols, such as the mandatory use of a facemask and social

distancing of one seat apart, are still being enforced for everyone’s safety.

In addition, all attendees are required to fill out a check-up form to confirm their personal information, recent health condition, and temperature.

The school’s simbang gabi is held at San Pedro Calungsod Hall from 6:00– 7:00 pm.

LTF upskills youth with their mission

For the second time, STC hosted a virtual rosary rally that primarily promoted the praying of the holy rosary by families, October 29.

It started with the praying of the Angelus led

by Angelica Quilaton and Luis Dimayuga, followed by an introduction from Mr. Orlando Villanueva.

“We can make these formal prayers our own by

using them frequently as we lift our hearts to God,” he said, referring to the Lord’s prayer, which Jesus Himself taught, and the prayers of the church.

Mrs. Punzalan, together with other teachers, presided over the praying of the rosary.

This year, the Gonzales family, Manalo family, Villanueva family, Masangcay family, and Cilindro family led the prayer.

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Photos by:

STC Official FB Page Ms. Angelica Castillo Edzekiel Vernon Herrera

F E AT U R E S

Let the

Jerome Ceralde If you were to name one person who embodies the ideals of leadership and public service, then look no further than Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo.

After years of serving the people at both local and national levels, VP Leni has decided to put herself in running to become the 17th president of the Philippines. The highest seat in the country should be reserved for those who are willing to place the whole nation before themselves. And right now, as the country struggles to regain a sense of normality, it needs a leader who has the virtue, experience, and courage to fulfill this duty—a leader like her.

From the grassroots Before her foray into politics, Robredo defended communities as a public advocate and human rights lawyer. In 1989, just three years after earning her degree in economics from the University of the Philippines Diliman, she founded the Lakas ng Kababaihan ng Naga Federation to equip women with necessary livelihood skills.

Later in 2007, as a member of the SALIGAN law group, she represented the Sumilao Farmers who made history after marching 1,700 kilometers from Bukidnon to Manila to reclaim their ancestral land from San Miguel Corporation. It was because of her that the Sanggunian ng Lungsod ng Naga issued a resolution of support for the farmers.

Thus, during her bid for vice president in 2016, these same farmers made sure to show their support in gratitude to her work.

This, along with the numerous overlooked communities she has helped, attest to her commitment to fighting for the lower class.

Even with odds Robredo is no stranger to surmounting odds.

When she became the representative for the third district of Camarines Sur in 2013, she unseated the Villafuerte clan, a political dynasty that had long held the local government unit of her hometown.

Similarly, while campaigning for the vice-presidential race, she initially lagged in polls to such an extent that supporters feared her prospects of winning. However, her track record of good governance overcame initial impressions and carried her to the top, soundly beating fellow candidate Ferdinand Marcos

14

Lady ead Jr. And even as the penultimate official of the nation, she faced adversity from no less than the president himself. Rodrigo Duterte actively stifled her powers and opposed her ideas in favor of his closer friends. Not one year after election, Duterte prohibited her from attending all future Cabinet meetings. In 2019, he appointed her as co-chair of the Inter-Agency Committee on Anti-Illegal Drugs, believing that Robredo would change her stance on the drug war, but continued to express his distrust until he fired her 19 days later.

Thriving in thrift These odds extend to finances. Despite having repeatedly received the highest rating from the Commission on Audit, the Office of the Vice President has consistently operated with less funds than its peers. From a proposed national budget of ₱5.024 trillion for 2022, the OVP was allocated a budget of ₱713.41 million. Keep in mind that the Department of Budget and Management slashed its budget to just ₱679 million the previous year—among the lowest in the entire national bureaucracy.

But the imposition of this unjustified limitation did not hinder her from serving the people. Since the first community quarantine last March, the OVP has collected and distributed donations in equipment and funds to healthcare workers, established a free shuttle service to aid in their transportation, donated millions’ worth of extraction kits to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine for the initial batches of testing, and kept the public updated with clear plans for the pandemic response, to name a few.

And all these were accomplished on top of extending over 1500 relief packs to the victims of typhoon Maring in Cagayan, continuing the BAHAYnihan housing project for displaced families in Camarines Sur, and sustaining Angat Buhay programs on food and nutrition, livelihood, shelter, education infrastructure, and healthcare resources throughout the country.

Liberating colors Seeing as how the color yellow has been stigmatized for its association with the liberal party, Robredo shifted her color of choice to pink to define her brand. This gave her campaign a much-needed breath of fresh air after the party’s disappointing results at the

2019 senatorial elections. It also allows for more leeway in how it selects its candidates and alliances, which is reflected in her party’s lineup.

However, the change in color is not merely a superficial one, but symbolizes a willingness to compromise where she can for the collective good. Prior to declaring her bid for presidency, she began communications with Ping Lacson, Manny Pacquiao, Richard Gordon, and “Isko” Moreno in an effort to unite the

opposition a g a i n s t the ruling party. And even as she spoke of her platform as the potential executive, she emphasized the need for reform instead of simply throwing out what does not work. One example is her bid to rework the anti-drug campaign to focus on prevention and rehabilitation instead of execution.

Most importantly, it is a culmination of the principles for which Robredo has stood ever since starting public service—those of equality through compassion and excellence before ambition. The #kakampink movement aims to rise above any preconceptions about her capabilities and priorities, and prove that Leni Robredo is a name. The path she paved with the merits of her past will paint a future that the Philippines deserves.

allying It was Friday, October 8, when the world remembered how powerful a journalist can be. From being recognized as a journalist, an author, and the co-founder of the news site Rappler, to becoming the first Filipino Nobel Prize laureate, Miss Maria Ressa proved that speaking truth to power is a battle worth fighting.

Having been in the field of journalism for over 35 years, the veteran’s passion for reporting the truth for the people is

Freedom for

2005, where she was the senior investigative reporter, dealing with terrorist networks and groups. Later on, she wrote for the International Center for Political Violence and Terrorism Research (ICPVTR) of S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies in Singapore.

In 2004, she started working at ABSCBN’s News and Foreign Affairs Department and was the head of her department until 2005.

She also wrote two books, “Seeds of Terror: An Eyewitness Account of Al-Qaeda’s Newest Center” and “From Bin Laden to Facebook: 10 Days of Abduction, 10 Years of Terrorism,” both centering around terrorism in Southeast Asia.

unquestionable.

Her works have paved the way for the advancement and protection of Filipino journalists and journalism as a whole.

Cutting-edge Courage Ressa founded Rappler in 2010 along with Lilibeth Frondoso, the current head for Multimedia Strategy and Growth at Rappler.

A year later, Ms. Ressa and her associates created a Facebook page called “Move.PH” to introduce a company that would transcend the limitations of journalism.

In 2012, Rappler formally made its debut as a website, with the name Rappler being a play on the words “rap” and “ripple”.

The website’s intentions were to make journalism more independent and interactive with citizens and to serve the people with the truth.

Rappler’s journalists cover all fields from sports to politics without filter. Its mission, first and foremost, is to shed light on matters for the public in a critical and informative way, despite the backlash that they may face.

A Journo’s Journey In 1986, Ressa graduated from Princeton University, New Jersey cum laude with an English degree. She then received a Fulbright scholarship, which led her to return to the Philippines. Here, she studied at the University of the Philippines Diliman and earned her Master’s degree in journalism.

She began her career in 1987 as an anchor and reporter at the news department of the government station “People’s Television Network”. She co-founded the documentary program “Probe”, and served as the bureau chief of Cable News Network (CNN) Manila until 1995. She worked for CNN Jakarta until

Rivaled by Libel On May 29, 2012, Rappler’s Reynaldo Santos, Jr. published an article entitled “CJ Using SUVs of ‘controversial businessmen”. It stated that the Filipino-Chinese businessman, Wilfredo D. Keng, was lending SUVs to then Chief Justice Renato Corona, and that Keng was involved in drug smuggling and human trafficking.

After repeated attempts of indicting Rappler for alleged libel, Keng’s complaints held water before Judge Rainelda EstacioMontesa, who ruled that fixing a typo two years after the original article was published qualified it for a case under the provisions of

Mharq GHierzey Abe the Cybercrime Law. Despite this reasoning being called into question by critics, Ressa was convicted with bail.

Ressa claimed that she was purposely arrested in the evening so that she could not bail herself out in a timely manner and that her arrest was politically motivated. And despite Keng having acted as a private citizen throughout the events, his ties with President Rodrigo Duterte are in no way secret.

Holding the Line A widely known fact about Ms. Ressa is that she actively criticizes Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte. Duterte constantly speaks vulgarities about news outlets and silences them. This, in turn, caused Ms. Ressa to speak about it, receiving both support and backlash from the nation.

Despite facing several charges and tons of criticism, she continues to push forward. Her determination shows that no matter what happens, she and Rappler’s team of journalists will continue to serve the truth.

Sentinel of Democracy Even after all the battles that Ressa has fought, she continues to fight.

On the abuse of power, the wrongdoings of the influential, the events that move the hearts of the people, she speaks out, no matter the consequences, and puts the wellbeing of the Filipino citizens before everything else.

She is, as the Nobel Peace Prize Committee states, “a fearless defender of freedom of expression.” If not for her courage to speak out, the eyes of most people would be shut tight, blissfully unaware of just how silent of a voice journalists are confined to.

Ressa continues, with many of her peers and fellow journalists, to rally for freedom-- of expression, of the press, and of the nation.

15

F E AT U R E S

Horr

Hell W

Pagsapit

22:00 Ipinaling ko ang aking mga mata mula sa orasan at muling tinitigan ang aking laptop. Nakatitig naman pabalik ang sanaysay na itinakda noong nakaraang linggo. Sa wakas, bukas na ang pasahan nito.

Ah, wala pa akong nasisimulan.

Paano ba naman, nagkasabay-sabay ang gawain ng tatlong asignatura, at pangkatan pa ang isa. Magkakasunod rin ang araw ng pasahan nila. Higit pa, nagkaroon ng mahabang pagsusulit sa Agham at Araling Panlipunan noong Sabado, kaya hindi ko na naintindihan kung alin ang unang aasikasuhin.

‘Yung pangkatan nga pala, natapos na kaya ni Lynne ang pag-eedit ng awtput namin? Matawagan nga.

“Huy, Lynne, kumusta na ‘yung bidyo?”

“Ito, nangangalahati pa lang. Sabihin mo pala kay Sam na ulitin ‘yung recording niya, magulo kasi ‘yung audio.”

“Panong magulo?”

“Kasing gulo ng love life mo.” Aba.

“Hoy, may kapuyatan na ‘ko!”

“Eh bakit ako ang kausap mo ngayon?”

Syempre, sinagot ko siya. Alangan namang aminin kong takdang aralin lamang ang dahilan ko sa pagpupuyat. Pabalik-balik kaming nag-asaran hanggang sa nagkataong tumama ang aking paningin sa mapanghusgang mukha ng orasan.

22:30

Dali-dali kong pinutol ang usapan at binalikan si kapuyatan. Kailangan ko ng paksa. Ano bang kasalukuyang pangyayari ang pasok sa tema ng panlilinlang? Tiyak na maraming balita ngayon tungkol sa pulitika.

Tingnan ko nga sa Twitter.

16 3

Artwork by: Amavel Hannah Atip

Bumungad sa akin ang sunod-sunod na daing ng aking mga kaklase. May pagod na raw magbuhat ng pangkat; may wala nang maintindihan sa mga araling tinalakay; may mauutas na sa pag-aayos ng Kabanata II– hala, may pananaliksik nga pala.

Sa palagay ko ay ngayong linggo na hihingin sa bawat pangkat ang sintesis, pero hindi pa rin kumpleto ang aming kaugnay na pag-aaral. Buti na lang talaga may Google Scholar.

Sinimulan kong isa-isahin ang panimulang bahagi ng mga lumabas na pag-aaral sa pagbabasakaling may mai-aambag ako sa aming papel. Unti-unting tumulin ang a k i n g pagbabasa hanggang sa makapagdagdag ako ng anim na pag-aaral sa aming gawa bago ko namalayan ang aking pagkauhaw.

Hay, kahit gaano katagal na naming pinag-aaralan ang katangian ng Kabanata II ay hindi pa rin ako nasasanay...sanay... sanay– ay, ‘yung

rors

Week

Jerome Ceralde

ng dilim

sanaysay!

itutuloy ‘yung palabas. Tatapusin ko muna ‘yung sanays– ay hatinggabi na pala.

23:25

Dali-dali akong uminom ng tubig at bumalik sa orihinal na layunin. Pinili kong gamiting paksa ang isyu sa pagkakabili ng Udenna Corp. sa malaking bahagi ng Malampaya gas field sapagkat maaari nitong maapektuhan ang suplay ng kuryente.

Uunahin kong talakayin ang kahalagahan ng Malampaya bilang pinagkukunan ng enerhiya.

Ang Malampaya gas field ay matatagpuan 80 km mula sa Palawan. Dumadaan sa isang 504-kilometrong tubo ang pinoproseso nitong natural gas...

Gas...

Heh, naalala ko kung saan ako nagkamali sa pagsusulit namin.

Nakakalito talaga ‘yung tatlong gas laws. Hindi ko pa rin maintindihan kung paano mag-solve gamit ang Ideal Gas Law. Alin nga ulit ‘yung phase kapag sobrang pinalamig ang gas?

Ahh, oo, Bose-Einstein Condensate. Katrabaho ni Einstein dito si Satyendra Nath Bose, isang tanyag na Indiyanong physicist. May napanood akong bidyo tungkol sa kanya sa Youtube noong isang araw. O sa Netflix ba yun?

Ano ba, self, focus! Kaya ko ‘to.

Pitong tabs na ang nakabukas sa Chrome kasabay ng MS Word at Spotify. Sagad na ang RAM nitong luma kong laptop pero sanay na dapat ito. Mas kinakabahan ako sa init ng CPU niya.

Tumunog ang cellphone ko, pero hindi ko ito pinansin.

May dumaang maingay na motor, ngunit wala itong talab sa akin.

Nagsimulang tumahol ang aso ng kapitbahay namin, pero diretso ang aking paggawa. Walang makapipigil sa akin sa pagsusulat.

...maliban sa antok.

02:25

Oo, bukas ko na tatapusin. Halos huling bahagi ng katawan at konklusyon na lang naman ang kulang. Kailangan ko ring magpahinga.

Subalit, lingid sa aking kaalaman ay may darating na perwisyong hahadlang sa aking layunin.

Napakadaya ng mundong ating ginagalawan. Sadyang mapagbiro rin ang tadhana. Gaano mang kabigat na ng hinaharap mong suliranin ay tiyak na may papatong pa.

Pinili kong matulog na sa pagbabasakaling matatapos ko ang takda pagkagising. Ngunit, ngayon ay unti-unting bumibilis ang tibok ng aking puso nang napagtanto ko ang aking kalagayan.

Ah, wala palang kuryente.

Ano na nga ba ang bago sa Netflix?

Halos hindi na ata umuusad ‘yung mga pinapanood ko. Nasa pangatlong ulit na rin ako ng B99 at Friends. Ano ba ‘tong Descendants of the Sun na palagi kong naririnig kay ate? Masilip nga nang kaunti.

00:40 Ang ganda niya! Pero bukas ko na

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F E AT U R E S

THE NIGHT OF

Christmas Grieve There was warmth; a gentle embrace that kindled my soul, A contrast to the December air, too harsh and too cold.

All around the room, there were greetings of merriment; The presence of the Christmas spirit, clearly evident.

There is frost; a chill that runs through my entire being, A contrast to the tears that numb what I am feeling.

The living room had lost its life and now housed only pity, Invited by the soul of a loved one departing too early.

Lumpiang shanghai on the table and presents by the tree; Mistletoes framing doorways and Christmas socks filled with candy.

My brother and I would wear little hats around our home, Laughing at just about everything in a world of our own.

What do you say when people tell you that they’re here for you?

How do you tell them that theirs is not the company you pursue?

Is it right to hide away from their whispered condolences, And keep pretending that I don’t understand what death is?

There were smiles; pearly ones from each member of my family As we sang Christmas carols together without harmony.

The night would progress and I would sigh in unburdened joy, Because this was all I wanted: an event to enjoy.

The month of December edges closer and closer; The chilly air howls and bites, stronger than ever.

But now, there is no candlelight to keep me warm and cozy; No mother who’ll hold my hand and ease my growing worry.

My small hands were clasped in my mother’s slightly bigger ones, And to the merry tunes my dad sang, we would gracelessly dance Without a care in the world, in our own little bubble, Impenetrable by worry, fear, and any other trouble.

They say that we should focus not on the past, Instead, in the future, which shines brightly and beckons us.

But how in the world am I meant to leave behind The moments of my family, of a mother so kind?

But it never does seem to last, these moments in time, When we could act like fools, when everything seemed fine.

There is no warning for when the fall will start; You never get a heads up when things get torn apart.

I am lost; in my thoughts, in my grief, on my own.

I am scared; of what’s to come, of being alone.

Alone, still at home, with my father’s empty shell And my brother’s seeming nonchalance to this ever-growing hell.

Christmas lights go out, and once-bright rooms begin dimming; Food that was once scalding turns cold and unappetizing.

Yet the music does not falter, nor do the clocks stop For time waits for no one, it runs ‘til yours is up.

Christmas lights are not put up, the once-dim rooms grow dimmer; There is no food on the table but remains of last night’s dinner.

The only noise in the house is the ticking of the clock, For time waits for no one, it’ll hurry, flow, then stop.

Mharq GHierzey Abe 18

Artwork by: Franchesca Bautista

Wishful Thinkers 5 Gift Ideas for Learners This Season

With sparkling lights hanging around, Christmas trees shining in our homes, and the cold breeze caressing our skin, Christmas is definitely right around the corner! Despite the pandemic that has been going around for two years, the spirit of Christmas remains alive as Filipinos continue to decorate their homes and attend simbang gabi online.

Since we love to get together with our families and friends, especially during this season, Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without the parties and the exchange of gifts. Giving (and receiving) gifts is one of the things we most look forward to this Christmas season.

However, the age-old question remains: “what gift should I buy?” Read on to find out the things that you can get for your friends to help them get through the next semester.

1. HOODIES - This Christmas season, hoodies are a must-have for students, especially when the cold breeze brushes against their skin. They create a sense of comfort and warmth when worn at home or on lazy weekends, allowing students to study and chill.

They are also prominent in completing the Christmas season’s collection; however, they aren’t limited to this season. They are also perfect for any cold, rainy evenings, hot beverages, fall season, and bonfires with friends.

2. STUFFED ANIMALS - A plush animal is one that a student may want for Christmas to keep them company as they sleep or study. It is not only

adorable, but it is also soft and snuggly.

P l u s h animals h a v e also

been suggested to help people relax and improve their mental health.

They will surely keep students warm and happy for many seasons to come.

3. DESK LAMP - A desk lamp is one of the must-haves for students this holiday season, which will help them stay productive at night. It is essential for a student’s study time, especially if they are a night owl. It is also a great present for students because it can brighten their study table while also making their work and output more feasible and enticing.

4. BOOK STAND - The simple fixture is also a must-have for students this holiday season, as it can help in prolonged study sessions. A book stand will surely make taking notes and reading more convenient, particularly for those that struggle maintaining a good posture. It will also be ideal for the designated Christmas chef, since it will allow

him or her to keep the recipe book open while preparing the delicious meals for noche buena!

5.

K-POP MERCH - Merch will undoubtedly be on one’s wish list, if he or she is a K-Pop enthusiast.

Some may argue that the merchandise has no purpose, but it does have a purpose and a meaning for the fans. From BTS to Enhypen, K-Pop groups have spread not only in Korea, but worldwide.

Their music and their own messages distinguish each of them, inspiring students to strive harder and to be happier this Christmas. Collecting merchandise from whom they stan provides comfort to the students or fans.

It’s all about giving during Christmas! From hoodies to K-Pop merchandise, there are a variety of items that we may offer to students to help them with their studies while also allowing them to spend time with their family over the holidays.

There are, of course, other immaterial gifts that are just as valuable, such as our love and time. This season, let us not forget the true meaning of Christmas. Spread love, kindness, generosity, and compassion not only to our families and friends, but also to those who are working hard during this pandemic. At the end of the day, the holiday season is not merely about gifts, but being grateful for all the blessings and opportunities that we receive throughout the year.

Juliana Castillo

19

F E AT U R E S

Misgi Yuletide Y Of

“Bilis anak! Pumila ka na bago ka pa maunahan.”

And so began the scramble to get ₱500 and maybe a few canned goods from our town’s next set of leaders. Like there’s going to be a “next” set—the same people have been in office for a decade.

Obviously, they run these donations to gain recognition and support from the people ahead of the officially-allowed campaign period. We’re poor, not stupid.

There is always a price to charity. But that won’t stop us from shaking hands with rich people we won’t see for another three years.

I mean, what’s one vote in exchange for tomorrow’s dinner?

From the basketball court where they were giving out goods, the line extended all the way to the end of the street. With the humid air and still muddy ground, I knew waiting was going to be tough.

I saw Aling Bibing a few places ahead of me, fanning herself with one hand while clutching an old eco bag in the other. She shouldn’t be out in this heat given her heart condition, but since both her children have yet to come home and her husband is too drunk to walk in a straight line, I suppose she has no choice.

Further up stood Ka Lito, a jeepney driver who was forced to sell his vehicle a few months ago for extra cash. Since then, he has worked from one contractual job to another, never knowing if he would still be employed the next morning. The money being given out should last him until at least Christmas Eve.

Two steps forward.

To my left was the small community chapel built when I was three. Calling it a chapel would be a stretch; it’s 20

Artwork by: Yuna Guilliane Jimenez

an open nipa hut with an altar in the front and a few bamboo sticks tied together to make makeshift benches.

With the number of candles lit near the altar, it’s a wonder how the w h o l e place hasn’t burned down. Each c a n d l e represents a prayer for those who are sick or have passed a w a y .

Wi lte d flowers from Flores de Mayo decorate the scene.

Aside from these occasional prayers, the chapel has not had much activity. Most choose to go straight to church since the pandemic protocols have loosened, especially now that simbang gabi has started. The noise and lights on the church patio contrast with the deafening silence of our chapel at night.

I used to look forward to attending mass with my friends. See, simbang gabi isn’t truly complete without eating bibingka and going caroling afterwards. One time, we managed to raise ₱425 despite being out of tune. And after skipping last year, I can’t wait to bring out my guitar

ivings and Yearnings

Jerome Ceralde

once again.

Three steps forward.

Someone tapped my shoulder f r o m behind.

I turned to see the owner of the sarisari store across from our house.

hinihingi.”

“Nasan na ang utang ng mama mo? Noong makalawa ko pa ‘yon

“Nako pasensya po, maliit kasi ang sinahod nya ngayong linggo eh. Ipaaalala ko po sa kanya.”

“Aba’y siguraduhin mo. Gagamitin pa namin ‘yon sa noche buena.”

Cut her some slack. My mom had been working day and night for the past three weeks to make sure that we could cover three tuition fees among us siblings. One day she was washing clothes for well-off families; the next she was working as a temp in a catering service. We haven’t even started thinking of gifts to give or food to prepare.

But last week, she came down with a fever. When her temperature reached 39° C, we contemplated taking her to the hospital, but she refused, saying it was too expensive for our already dwindling budget. Luckily, it subsided two days later, and she immediately went back to work despite her persistent coughing.

Five steps forward.

Suddenly, a commotion broke out ahead. I moved to get a closer look and saw a woman frantically fanning someone on the ground while crying for help. Aling Bibing had collapsed.

People started to gather around them. Some offered bottles of water and umbrellas, while others urged the rest to give them space. Meanwhile, no one from the politician’s group even noticed what was going on. I guess they were too busy pushing their own definition of public service.

Eventually, two men carried Aling Bibing back to her house. I should light a candle later.

Ten steps forward.

Imagine, if Aling Bibing were a bit wealthier, she would not have had to wait in the heat for over an hour.

With even more money, she could have kept buying the maintenance pills that she stopped taking last year. In fact, had we all been a bit wealthier, none of us would be out here in the streets right now.

And if the spirit of Christmas can be measured by one’s status, does that mean my family and I are less deserving of celebrating it?

Finally, it’s my turn to receive the handouts. The ₱500 and two cans of sardines better have been worth it.

21

F E AT U R E S

Manghinao Uno Bauan, Batangas

Mister President, Are You There?

December 16, 2021 President Rodrigo Roa Duterte Malacanang Complex J.P. Laurel Street San Miguel, Manila 1005 Dear Mister President,

Hi, my name is Ria, and I am writing this letter to express my thoughts about you no longer being president soon. It is a little saddening to hear about, but also quite exciting.

It’s not every day that a new leader is chosen to lead the country.

I wonder if they will be as busy as you are. My cousins usually complain that you never do anything, but I think you just have too much on your plate to help us. They tell me, though, that it is your responsibility to find time to care for the country and its citizens, and I think I am starting to see their point.

It is heartbreaking to hear about how many people are suffering these days. I listen to the news in the morning, and most of the time, I hear about you and your war. My Dad just scoffs at the tv and tells me that “those” people deserve to be punished. Other times, the news talks about imprisoning these tired-looking people with signs. Mom calls them “activists,” which I do not really understand. But I do not think they deserve to be imprisoned, because mom said they are just farmers, students, and employees.

I am writing about it, Mister President, so you can hear about it and help them.

I was watching the news again earlier, and the reporters were talking about how Christmas is just around the corner. I wish I could celebrate it with my relatives and friends, but Mom says that we cannot invite them over.

Are you aware, Mister President, that there is a spreading disease? I do not think you are, because otherwise, we might no longer have this disease in the country. I have heard about how kids my age in other countries can wander and visit cool places, and I am envious of them. I wish I could do the same, as I miss spending time with my friends and my family.

There’s not much for me to do, and staring at the same-old walls is starting to get boring.

Say, Mister President, you still have a few months until your resignation. Could you please help us? Make our country a better place by helping more people. It would be great to hear about it!

From, Ria 22

Thank you in advance, Mister President! I hope you consider it.

PROSPECTS

Borderline Baseless Benefits Rose-ilient | Ikea Rose Mercado

To honor the sacrifices of medical frontliners, the government will be constructing Frontliners Memorial Wall Site, a memorabilia wall depicting what has transpired since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, at the Libingan ng Mga Bayani. Nonetheless, the government should have postponed the memorial wall’s construction for a variety of reasons.

According to Carlito Galvez Jr., Secretary of the National Task Force Against COVID-19, the memorial wall will honor the heroism of deceased doctors, nurses, and other medical personnel who spearheaded the country’s fight against the virus. This will also serve as symbolic reparations to begin the healing process for the victims’ families, as a memorial is a place to grieve for their lost loved ones.

The government’s delayed response, on the other hand, is inconsiderate to current healthcare workers. They remain underpaid and overworked more than a year after the pandemic began, forced to handle the unending influx of patients, as well as a lack of medical and personal protective equipment (PPE), limited food supply, and emotional stress and depression.

Studies from the two databases, PubMed and Google Scholar, demonstrated the equally critical problems faced by medical frontline workers during the pandemic, which, if not addressed, could lead to medical frontline workers’ nonperformance. The risk factors include work in a high-risk department, diagnosed family members, inadequate and suboptimal hand hygiene before and after contact with patients, improper PPE usage, close contact with patients, long periods of contact, and unprotected exposure.

Furthermore, the government’s top priority should be to support frontline

workers. According to data aggregator iPrice, registered nurses and medical technologists in the Philippines earn the least in Southeast Asia. During this pandemic, experienced registered nurses earn about ₱40,381 a month, while medical technologists earn even less at ₱29,444 a month. In March, netizens criticized the Department of Health (DOH) for allowing healthcare workers to volunteer to fight against COVID-19 with a daily allowance of only P500 instead of properly employing them and providing them with tenure and benefits.

In response to the country’s worsening COVID crisis, which has resulted in nonpayment of benefits and tiredness, several health employees have opted to resign. The government could have used the money spent on the memorial wall to fulfill the needs of healthcare professionals if it had been built at a later date.

Additionally, there are still more pressing concerns to be addressed, such as the distribution of vaccines and implementation of limited face-toface classes. Due to the government’s shortcomings, healthcare personnel have been subjected to conditions that even a pandemic cannot excuse. The government should at the very least compensate them for their inadequate hazard pay and special risk allowance.

The memorial is especially extraneous news at a time when the DOH is dealing with a slew of claims of corruption coming from anomalies discovered by the Commission on Audit (COA). Without public bidding, billions of dollars have been spent on pandemic supplies from dubious companies at outrageous prices. President Duterte defended it by claiming that it was to expedite the acquisition of essential supplies. Ironically, it comes at the expense of the people who will use these goods.

Despite the risks of the pandemic, healthcare workers have continued to provide service. Hence, they must be provided with the benefits to which they are entitled, such as hazard pay and special risk allowance. Under President Rodrigo Duterte’s Administrative Order (AO) No. 35, active hazard duty pay is reserved for “frontline human resources for health (HRH),” which includes only medical, allied medical, and other public sector personnel.

Meanwhile, the COVID-19 SRA is for public and private healthcare workers, primarily those who are assigned to designated COVID-19-affected areas.

Many sources of information are available on the internet, but not all of them are accurate and reliable. Even distributing false information about COVID-19 can put a strain on frontline workers; thus battling fake news is essential. Educate yourself, your family, your friends, and everyone else about the need to be vigilant when using social media; there is a lot of information out there, but everyone should know which ones to believe and which ones to ignore.

As the battle to contain the contagion rages and more issues about the government’s response to the pandemic surface, constructing a memorial wall reveals the government’s priorities. At a time when frontliners are still battling in the trenches, the government’s proposed memorial wall is comparable to placing a headstone on the grave of someone who is still fighting. Everyone, even students, must not only be aware of, but actively concerned about the romanticization of deaths that could have been prevented.

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PROSPECTS

Lihis sa Daang Matuwid Rynnsmeralda | Audrey Geanne Padua

Patuloy ang pagpapagawa ng Pasig River Expressway (PAREX) sa pamamahala ng San Miguel Corporation (SMC) at Philippine National Construction Corporation.

Hangarin nitong mabawasan ang trapiko sa pamamagitan ng tulay na magduduktong sa ilang parte ng rehiyon. Taliwas sa layuning inihain ng SMC, ang proyektong ito ay walang mabuting maidudulot kung ‘di mga komplikasyon sa iba’t ibang aspektong maaapektuhan nito.

Paninindigan ng SMC, ang 19.4-kilometrong expressway na nagkakahalagang ₱95B ay kapakipakinabang hindi lamang sa pagbabawas ng traffic kung ‘di maging sa ilog mismo.

Inihayag nitong kasabay ng proseso ng pagpapagawa ng PAREX ay ang paglilinis ng ilog Pasig.

Subalit, tulad ng mga napatunayan ng ibang bansa, ang mga urban expressway ay mas nakadaragdag lamang sa napakaraming bilang ng gumagamit ng sasakyan sa loob ng kada araw, na nagdudulot ng milya milyang traffic, polusyon sa hangin, at negatibong bitbit ng climate change.

Ayon sa pag-aaral ng Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC) at Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), sa kada taong laganap ang polusyon ay nawawalan ng ₱4.5T ang bansa na nagagastos sa mga bagay tulad kakulangan sa pag-usad ng ekonomikal na produktibidad ng mamamayan at gastos sa pangangalagang pangkalusugan.

Dahilan ng malawak na sakop ng expressway, hindi imposibleng makaapekto rin ito sa daloy ng tubig sa ilog, hindi

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lamang sa ilog Pasig, maging sa kalapit nitong Laguna de Bay at Manila Bay. Batay naman sa datos mula sa pananaliksik ng Health Effects Institute noong 2010, ang mga naninirahan sa loob ng 300 - 500 metro ng lapit sa mga highway ay nakakatamo ng iba’t ibang sakit tulad ng asthma, impaired lung function, diabetes, at stroke.

Sumasalamin din ito sa kung paano mas pinaglalaanan ng pamahalaan ng pondo ang mga ganitong proyekto sa halip na ilaan ito sa mga sektor na higit na nangangailangan nito, tulad ng medisina at edukasyon. Hindi sapat na dahilan ang pagkabawas ng trapik sa patuloy na kakulangan sa pagtugon sa pangangailangan ng mga naturang sektor.

Nagamit sana ang nagastos na pondo para tugunan ang hinaing ng mga guro na ang mga kagamitang inilaan ng Department of Education (DepEd) para sa kanila ay hindi pa rin sapat upang makapagbigay ng kalidad na edukasyon sa mga estudyante. Kaugnay ng isyung ito ay ang kamakailan lamang na pahayag ng DepEd na posibleng makaranas ng paghahati sa iisang modyul ang ilang estudyante sa mga susunod na kwarter sapagkat kulang ang pondong hawak ng kagawaran.

Dumagok din sa pamahalaan ang suliranin sa alokasyon ng pondo sa larangan ng medisina. Patunay dito ang paghinging muli ng $300M na utang sa World Health Organization (WHO), dagdag sa patong-patong na utang ng bansa na magagastos sa pagbili ng ekstrang COVID-19 booster. Dahil sa hindi sapat na sweldong natatanggap ng mga medical social worker, madami ay napipilitang maghanap ng trabaho sa labas ng bansa.

Tingnan na lamang ang halos 150,000

Pilipinong nars na nasa United States kaysa sa 23,000 nars sa Pilipinas ayon sa Private Hospitals Association.

Bukod sa mga epekto nito sa kalikasan at pondong nararapat na ilaan sa mas nanganagilangang sektor, ang expressway na ito ay magiging rason din kung bakit matatakluban ang mga heritage structure tulad ng Jones Bridge at Quezon Bridge. Kabilang din dito ang Manila Post Office, Rizal Shrine, National Press Club at ang tanyag na Intramuros.

Kung sakaling mangyayari ang mga inilahad na epekto ng mga urban expressway sa kalikasan sa mga susunod pang taon, sa halip na mapakinabagan ito ng makabagong henerasyon ay magiging pabigat lamang ito sa kanila dahil sa kanila papatak ang pagsasaayos nito.

Tunay na nararapat mabigyan ng solusyon ang trapikong nagiging sagabal sa pang-araw-araw na pamumuhay nating mamamayan. Subalit, hindi kailanman nito mapangangatwiranan ang pagkasira ng Ilog Pasig. Sa halip na ituloy ang pagpapagawa ng PAREX ay maaaring magsulong ng mga proyekto para sa ikauunlad ng mga public utility vehicles, nang sa gayon ay mabawasan ang lala ng trapiko habang tumutulong sa mga pumapasadang tsuper.

Hindi lamang tao ang pinapatay ng pandemya.

Newfound Frontier Kitsune | Khriz Mathew Atienza

STC’s first-ever virtual intramurals came in full swing! Online games, including chess, dama, memory games, guessing games and more, were conducted during the event. But when the phrase “virtual sports” is mentioned, what is the first thing that springs to mind?

Personally, I anticipated wellknown mobile games, given their prevalence and accessibility among the student body.Speaking of online games, they have become a common indulgence among young people, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, since going outside is restricted and more people are forced to rely on modern technology.

Students have turned to video games as a way to unwind after a long day or week of studying and hard work.

According to Newzoo’s Consumer Insights, 74% of Filipino gamers play on their mobiles, whereas 65% play on their personal computers (PC). Both of these options, though, are remarkable and should be recognized. Each of which has its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Mobile games, for example, are lighter and consume less data than PC games. Computer games, on

the other hand, offer more customization features and experiences than those played on handheld devices.

Adopting these into next year’s virtual intramurals might be a haven for students who excel at gaming, giving them a platform to show their skill in the sport after a long time of negligence and denial. It would be theoretically feasible for anybody interested in hosting eSports events.

Moreover, online games have built-in automated matchmaking systems, reducing the amount of work for organizers. One can simply create a private room and invite players from each team without exiting the game. The length of each match, game mode that will be used, and personalized rules may also be altered. In addition, each game has its own score system, enabling the host to quickly determine the victor at the end of the round.

Nonetheless, there is one factor to consider, which is the amount of time for practice. Players need to play many matches to enhance their skills. Doing so, however, may take hours and could lead to detrimental consequences such as eye damage and distraction from their

studies.

Online games are not all flashing lights for everyone. Many adults consider this a nuisance to the younger players’ attitudes. For example, disconnecting during a match is discouraged in several games since it is considered a rule violation. Housework and studies are neglected due to this feature.

Although the pandemic has plagued us for the past two years, students continue to find ways to loosen up and improve their gaming skills. Next year’s probable “Virtualympics” will be a perfect opportunity for the players to be recognized and to do what they enjoy, if and only if intramurals were to be held virtually next year.

But since we are enclosed in a frontier of online activities in these trying times and are less likely to recover in time for the rise of a new variant, the pros indisputably outweigh the cons of modern gaming. From its convenience to its engaging nature, this is definitely one to expect in the next iteration of online intramurals.

Letter to the Editor Manifesting I am a Grade 12 student, and I have been manifesting for the implementation of limited face-to-face classes, or even just activities, for the next year.

Although online learning is essential to avoid a learning gap, it is still not ideal. Frankly, this is not how

I imagined my years in senior high would go. All I can do is look forward to the possibility of having a face-to-face graduation and receiving our diplomas in person, on-stage. It certainly beats merely watching a livestream of the event.

As such, I would like to call your attention to the students’ heed regarding

the return of face-to-face classes through thoroughly safe means. The government and related institutions must work together to make this happen.

-John Michael A. Garcia

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SPORTS

Virtualympics 2021 Artworks by: Yuna Guilliane Jimenez

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Juliana castillo & Joice Masayda

Athletes go digital in first-ever

VIRTUALYMPICS In honor of the school’s 81st founding anniversary and the feast day of its patron saint, STC hosted its first-ever online intramurals, Virtualympics 2021, with the theme “STC@81: Soaring Higher, Thriving Deeper, Converging Stronger,” October 18–23.

Sporting Digital Makeovers This year’s teams were based on Microsoft 365 applications to reflect the school’s use of its services in the curriculum.

On the first day of Intramurals, the opening ceremony was held and made official by the ceremonial lighting of the Olympic Torch. For each succeeding day, a general assembly was conducted every morning to announce the teams’ current standings and the announcement of schedules.

This year’s Intramurals is not like the other Intramurals that STC had for the past years. As Virtualympics had new and fun online games such as the Memory Game, Guessing Game, Price is Right, Name It to Win It and the live games, Family Feud and Wheel of Fortune.

Board games like Chess and Dama were held online during the second day while Zoom games such as Memory Game, Price is Right and the Scavenger Hunt for the Intermediate level occurred on the third day of Virtualympics.

Meanwhile, group games like Guessing Game and Name It to Win It were conducted on the fourth day and Wheel of Fortune was broadcasted live on STC’s official page on the fifth

day, and Family Feud was broadcasted on the sixth day.

Games were divided into four divisions: the intermediate Level, JHS 7–8 Level, JHS 9–10 Level and Senior High School.

New Games, More Fun Out of all of the newly added games, the Memory Game and Guessing Game were new to the ears of both viewers and participants; other newlyadded games like Family Feud and Wheel of Fortune were borrowed from well-known TV game shows.

In the Memory Game, participants are given a random set of picture cards by pairs. They must memorize where they are located and pair them within a time limit of one minute in the first round and two minutes in the second round, with each division receiving a different amount of cards in both rounds.

On the other hand, Guessing Game is played by groups of four players each from different divisions guessing the chosen person/s through their famous quotations in the first round and through their cropped pictures in the second. The entire game contains 132 items for both rounds.

Both new games were conducted through Zoom for the participants and committee members, with the audience watching the games via MS Teams; the same was done for the other games.

Ms. Romela Angeli Aranas, an official for both games, shared her experience with hosting them.

“The most exciting part is

during the event itself, when I observe how the participants or the team help each other or make good strategies to earn a lot of points and to win,” she said.

Bagging the Gold On October 23, the closing ceremony was held along with the announcement of winners and the retreating of flags per team.

With a total of 8 bronze medals, 4 silver medals, and 9 gold medals, the Marshalling Lists (Yellow) claimed the title of overall champion.

They bagged medals from various games, notably gold in the Senior High School Division of Chess, Dama, Memory Game and Price Is Right, as well as in the game of Name It to Win It in the JHS division.

On the other hand, the Deciphering Delve (Red) won 1st runner up with a total of 9 bronze medals, 4 silver medals and 7 gold medals; while the Unstoppable Powerapps (Violet) won 2nd runner up with 8 bronze medals, 12 silver medals and 6 gold medals.

After the celebration, the school gave students a week-long wellness break before resuming the semester.

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SCI-TECH

Del-Talk of the Town COVID-19 continues its rampage across the world. As vaccines are being developed throughout the globe, many expect the long-awaited end to this calamity.

However, there is one obstacle in particular that prevents this from happening: the Delta variant.

Get to know the variant Delta was first identified in India, until reaching Great Britain, then soon making its way into the United States.

It is said to have an increase in transmissibility and ability to cause a severe form of disease.

It is now dominant all around the world. Countries such as Mexico, Japan, Denmark, Germany, Philippines, and others have registered cases with it.

There are a few major traits about the Delta variant that make it stand out from the other variants.

Delta is more contagious The Centers for Disease Control and

Prevention (CDC) labeled the Delta variant “a variant of concern” because of it being more contagious than other strains of the virus. According to the CDC, it is twice as contagious as the variants that came before it.

Although it is more contagious, the same precautions, such as wearing face masks, maintaining distance, and avoiding crowds, still work against the said variant.

disease. According to the CDC, the vaccines, namely Pfizer and Moderna, show great results in preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and death.

They also recommend booster shots for the Pfizer vaccine for those who are aged 65 and up, those with underlying medical conditions aged 18-65, and those whose work puts them at a higher risk of exposure to the virus.

It is important, however, to note that those who are vaccinated may have spread the variant to those who are unvaccinated. Thus, it is still important to wear face masks, wash your hands, and practice social distancing.

Unvaccinated people are at risk A study from Imperial College London shows that those who are unvaccinated are more likely to get infected by the virus than those who are fully vaccinated. This includes the Delta variant as well.

Those who are vaccinated, on the other hand, have a lower chance of transmitting the disease and therefore have a lower chance of spreading the delta variant as well.

Vaccination is the best defense Doctors say that vaccination is the best protection against the variant and the

Myron cARLOS ESPIRITU

Mass Testing to Mass Resignation

Overworked but underpaid, nurses in the Philippines threaten mass resignation unless given the promised benefits by the government.

This is evident, given that the government’s pandemic response has been less than impressive, as hospitals fill, new variants run rampant in the country, and workload for nurses increases by day.

Jao Clumia, union president of St. Luke’s Medical Center, says that health workers are already tendering their resignations.

“Healthcare workers are tired and extremely demoralized.

Many have already resigned and many more want to,” Clumia stated.

Healthcare

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workers have been a pillar of our country since the outbreak of the pandemic. So, how can we encourage them to continue their hard work?

A possible solution is the payment of the promised benefits.

The government allotted special risk allowances for frontline workers, including hazard pay. To be eligible for the hazard pay, a public or private health worker must deal directly with COVID-19 patients. This has been long overdue, and it could have been disbursed as soon as the pandemic began to worsen.

Despite this, nurses attest that they have not been compensated as promised. This is alarming, given that the government has allotted a lot of money for special risk allowances.

Frontliners have also protested the resignation of Duque. This sprouted from staff calling him out at the start of the pandemic for not having a concrete plan.

On August 31, 2021, he failed to meet the deadline for the payment of promised benefits to healthcare workers, and was forced to resign once more.

Duque is riding high on a wave of controversies, namely being the chairman of PhilHealth, which is filled with corruption, and for passing the blame to his subordinates, even reprimanding them in front of the media and the president.

The mass resignation of health workers is not a minor issue. Going through with this could lead to the country’s pandemic response to start crashing down.

Both citizens and government officials must pay attention to their requests. No one knows what they need more than themselves.

DEL-TALK OF THE TOWN

Expensive Doesn’t Mean Smart On August 4, the Department of Health (DOH) issued a bid notice for four highend computers with accessories. But when priced at P175,000 each, it begs the question, “what type of computer could cost that much?”

Why would they need this?

According to Eric Tayag, head of the DOH’s knowledge management and information technology service office, the “2-in-1” notebook computers would be used for vaccination registration and other activities that would cause laptops with lesser specs to freeze.

According to Tayag, his office requested the laptops for its developers since they need to replace the ones they already have.

“Kailangan po namin, kasi kami po ‘yung gumagawa ng mga registry po. Halimbawa po ang bakuna registry, kailangan po namin mailagay po at mavisualize para maparating po sa mga policymakers kung ano na po ‘yung datos, at kailangan na po sapagkat may analytics din po,” he told the senators.

What drives up the cost?

During this pandemic, several controversies have plagued the infamous Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corporation. The company supplies the government with face masks, face shields, and other medical equipment, but is now under fire for allegedly overpricing said equipment.

Since the start of the pandemic, Pharmally received ₱8.68 billion in contracts from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) despite only having ₱625,000 in paid-up capital.

It made no sales that year and had a declared net loss of ₱25,500. However, in the following year, the corporation’s sales increased to around ₱7.5 billion.

The corporation produced a gross profit of P393 million and a net profit of ₱265 million because of the DBM transactions.

Dell U.S. is selling an Inspiron 15 2-in-1 laptop for just P38,000 that meets the DOH’s minimal standards.

Meanwhile, for P80,000, you can purchase an Acer laptop with a faster i7 CPU, 16GB of RAM, and 1 terabyte of storage, which is more than twice the P175,000 budget per unit.

Dell also has a 13.4inch 2-in-1 laptop with better specs than the DOH procurement request (Intel Core i7, 512 GB storage, 16GB RAM) for P145,485, including delivery.

How did the people react?

When a public paperwork for a laptop for P175,000.000 went viral online, the DOH was severely criticized. The health department wanted to spend P700,000 for four computers, according to the bidding paperwork.

The Philippines is still fighting to control the deadly virus that has infected 1.6-million people and killed over 29,000 people more than a year into the outbreak, and the government should worry the least about computers.

R i g h t af ter t h e

back lash from the people, according to Dr. Eric Tayag, the department canceled the transaction because a Baguio hospital was in need of money.

“Ang latest update po diyan, una po kinancel na po namin ‘yan sapagkat naghahanap kami ng funds para sa kailangan po ng aming CHD (Centers for Health Development), particularly diyan po sa Baguio General Hospital Medical Center dahil kailangan po nila ng IT support,” he told the senate during an inquiry.

Instead of buying a high-priced computer, they might use this money to assist those who are having difficulty finding work during the pandemic.

Pharmal-issue

“Official records will show that it sold face masks at a whopping ₱27.72, when other suppliers sold the same to PSDBM [Procurement Service Office-DBM] at ₱13.5, ₱16, and ₱17.50 for the same period,” said Senator Franklin Drilon during a senate hearing on the topic.

“It sold test kits at ₱1,720 when it could be bought at ₱925. It sold at ₱1,910 each when its market cost is at ₱945,” he added.

Related to this, Senator Risa Hontiveros presented data that shows infrared thermometers were sold to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) at ₱3,200 per piece, while their catalog for

allegedly the same period listed the price for the same item as ₱2,000, during a Senate blue ribbon committee hearing.

Pharmally continues to be the focus of the Senate’s investigation on the Commission of Audit (COA) report, which showed the shortages of Department of Health (DOH) funds equivalent to ₱67.32 billion.

Part of this is the ₱42 billion transferred by the DOH to PS-DBM, which was used for contracts worth ₱8.7 billion to Pharmally, in spite of having just ₱625,000 in paid-up capital.

EMMANUEL CONTI JR.

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