Bomb scare disrupts LPU Manila classes story on page 3
China expert shed light on Scarborough Shoal dispute p.7
the mining eo a bag of air or a box of chocolates? p.13
Vol. XXX No. 1 June - October 2012
Member: College Editor’s Guild of the Philippines
Special Report
K-12: Redesigning basic education
by Marc Lino J. Abila School Year 2012-2013 marks the implementation of the second phase of the K-12 education program of the Aquino administration in selected public schools. K-12 or Enhanced 12-Year Basic Education Program will add two more years in high school and change the curricula of both elementary and secondary education and aims to make its graduates more marketable overseas by offering technical-vocational training in the additional two years, Kabataan Partylist said. “If the K to 12 is not supported by [sufficient] budget, we cannot achieve the ultimate objective of delivering quality education,” LPU Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Conrado Iñigo, Jr. said in an interview with The Sentinel. “So, my recommendation, if ever [the] government is serious in the implementation of the K to 12, is that they provide additional budget for education, hire quality teachers
and provide quality classrooms and facilities.” “The sense of nationalism and encouragement of critical thinking among the youth are in danger because K-12 is modeled after the US educational system which is not fit to the Filipino culture and will teach the youth to be more colonial rather than nationalistic,” Kabataan Partylist said. LPU administration says otherwise. “One reason is that we can establish competitive advantage by following the global standard,” Dr. Iñigo said. “I firmly believe that it is imperative to adopt the global educational system.” “Well first, it will provide better quality education for all and will give them more chance in succeeding. Second, as we already know... the Philippines is the only remaining country in Asia with a 10-year basic education program and other countries view the 10-years education program as insufficient. Lastly according to the DepEd (Department of continue to page 6
Underfunded. Las Piñas East National High School students endure an overpopulated classroom setup with only one teacher for almost 70 students. Photo by Joshua Alan P. Allanigue
LPU population hits 14k by Kenno S. Nishioka The student population of the Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) Manila rose to 14, 116 students, showing a 560-student or 4.13 percent population increase from last year. “Lyceum of the Philippines University’s increase in population may be attributed to LPU’s achievements in pursuit of quality education,” said Ms. Jennifer Tucpi, University Registrar, regarding the population increase this academic year. Ms. Tucpi attributed the increase of enrollees to some
recent achievements the university has received. Membership in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), ranking no.1 Nationwide in October 2009 and October 2011 Customs Broker Licensure Examination, and accreditation by the International Center for Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality Education (THEICE) are some of the achievements Tucpi highlighted. The College of International Tourism and Hospitality Management (CITHM) still holds the biggest student population in LPU with 8, 621 students as compared to last year’s 8, 408 students, with a
2.53 percent increase. The College of Business Administration (CBA), which comes second to the CITHM in terms of population, also increased to 1, 858 students from 1, 619 students, having a 14.76 percent increase. Other colleges that had an increase in population were the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) and the College of International Relations (CIR). CAS increased to 1, 200 students from last year’s 1, 054 students, increasing by 13.85 percent. Meanwhile, CIR increased to 664 students from last continue to page 2
CITHM receives THE-ICE accreditation by Cassandra Lynn B. Dizon
Don Chino
by Marc Lino J. Abila Submit your photos on social and politcal issues, either digital or film at the Sentinel Office and look for Marc. You may also email them at lpu.independentsentinel@gmail.com and attach a copy of your current EAF.
The International Centre of Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality Education (THEICE) accredited Lyceum of the Philippines University’s College of International Tourism and Hospitality Management (CITHM), making LPU the first and only university in the country to be recognized by THE-ICE. THE-ICE is an independent and international accreditation body based in Australia which specializes in tourism, hospitality, culinary arts and events education. In an interview with The LPU
In d e p e n d e n t Sentinel last August 3, 2012, CITHM Senior OIC R o b e r t o Zozobrado said that they needed to show proofs that LPU can comply with THE-ICE’s fourteen criteria. It included documentary proofs and a visit from the board members to confirm all their reports. According to Zozobrado, THE-ICE was very strict in terms of compliance to the standards. “That is why during their visit last July 16, when
we took them around the facilities, they would stop to see if what we wrote down in the documents are really true.” Since THE-ICE accreditation is renewable, LPU must maintain its standards. “The only challenge will come from us. As long as we continue to improve on what we are doing, continue to page 14
2
THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
NEWS
June - August 2012
LYCESGO promises open communication by Cassandra Lynn B. Dizon This year’s Lyceum Central Student Government (LYCESGO) aims to fully open all possible means of communication to Lyceans and engage them to participate in LYCESGO’s future projects. In a roundtable meeting with The LPU Independent Sentinel last August 3, 2012, the LYCESGO officers tackled issues concerning the whole student body. Openness and Transparency LYCESGO President from College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Aisa De Los Santos said that students are free to visit LYCESGO’s office in case they have any queries. “Open na open ang LYCESGO for all students.” She encourages students to approach them in case they have any concerns. On the issue of transparency, LYCESGO assured that since their funds come from the students, they will be very transparent with financial documents provided that it is properly requested. Before the semester started, they already made a strategic plan regarding the allocation of their budget and decided to make tie-up projects with other colleges to be more practical and efficient. Student Affairs Office (SAO) Dean and LYCESGO adviser Lizandro Ferrer also encouraged them and different organizations to have projects that are also income-generating. LYCESGO Treasurer from College of International Relations
Population
(CIR) Matthew Valdeavilla added that they are willing to help other organizations with financial matters as long as they find it appropriate and they comply with the given process. LYCESGO’s role in the Suspension of Classes With the past suspensions of classes due to heavy rains and floods, De Los Santos explained that Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Conrado Iñigo Jr. already made her part of the Emergency Communication Group (ECG) which is the committee that determines whether to cancel classes or not. She emphasized that VPAA makes the final decision regarding the suspension. But that decision will depend on the reports of the ECG. They also shared that VPAA already issued a memo to all professors to give considerations to students who can’t make it to class whenever there are floods. LYCESGO will serve as communicators between the students and VPAA, in case their professor will not give them the consideration. “Tutulungan naming gumawa ng letter ang students to VPAA if hindi sila binigyan ng consideration.” Valdeavilla added. The Increase of Fees LYCESGO explained that this year’s tuition fee increase and the additional miscellaneous fees are out of their hands as they were not yet elected when the fees were decided upon. Valdeavilla said that what they can do now is to check the fees that will be planned for next school year and
to make sure that the students’ side will be well-represented through them. When asked if they are willing to oppose another increase or additional fees when deemed not really necessary, De Los Santos said they will. “Kung yung pag-increase, sa tingin naming walang pupuntahan, i-ooppose talaga namin. Pero syempre we will still be objective. Titingnan naming lahat ng aspects. Kung appropriate naman, okay. Ang importante naman diyan, kung saan siya mapupunta.” Concerns about the Student Handbook and School Facilities LYCESGO said that they represent the students when changes in the student handbook are made so they are open for any suggestions from Lyceans. They said that three issues from the handbook were tackled with SAO. These include the issuing of violations, the standard of uniforms and the hair color of students. On the other hand, they are also concerned with the school facilities like the use of laboratories and room ventilations. LYCESGO Business Manager from College of International Tourism and Hospitality Management (CITHM) Kimbely Jane Solejon said that she has been going to Buildings and Grounds to address the problem. She stated that it should really be acted upon and that they would monitor any progress. LYCESGO Vice President continue to page 14
from page 1
year’s 635 students, posting a 4.57 percent increase. On the other hand, five colleges showed a decline in student population figures. The College of Computer Studies (CCS) dropped to 732 students from the previous 753 students. The College of Engineering (COE) and Graduate School both had a decrease of two students, declining from 479 studentsto 477 students for COE and 266 students to 264 students for the Graduate School. In LPU’s Makati Campus, the College of Law also declinedfrom 229 students to 213 students last academic year. The biggest decline came from the College of Nursing (CON). The college declined to 87 students from the previous year’s 113 students, indicating a 23.01 percent decrease.
Graphics by Earl Joseph G. Quan The LPU-Manila student population from 2008-2012
LPU holds Inaugural Freshmen Day by Redhor Markie J. Mendoza The Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) held a concert last July 27 to commemorate the university’s first-ever Freshman Day. Acoustic artist Lianne, Ang Banda ni Kleggy, Gracenote, and 6 Cycle Mind gave music performances to the LPU crowd. “This is in connection with the freshman days last June 14 to 16; we learned that 6 Cycle Mind will have a school tour so that is why we coordinated with Redlines Production and a motorcycle brand to bring them here,” Aisa Delos Santos, LYCESGO President, told The Sentinel. Aside from the concert, a motorcycle training seminar and demonstration was also held at the LPU Quadrangle. “The atmosphere here is really happy; the students are awesome because you feel their happiness,” Lianne said. Gracenote Vocalist Eunice Jorge, meanwhile, shared their memories as a student. “Yes, we miss being part of that crowd,” she shared. For their part, Vocalist Kleggy Abaya of Ang BandaniKleggy imparted some words for the LPU students. “Study hard, and don’t do drugs,” he said.
Lycean commissioned for CEGP National Office by Janine Chloe C. Bautista The College Editors Guild of the Philippines (CEGP) appointed Marc Lino Abila, a 4th year Journalism student of the Lyceum of the Philippines University as its new National Deputy Secretary General in the recently held 72nd National Student Press Convention and 36th Biennial Student Press Congress last May 14-18, 2012 in Palawan State University, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan Abila is also the current Managing Editor 2 of LPU’s official student publication, The LPU Independent Sentinel. He was appointed by Pauline Gidget Estella of The Philippine Collegian, who was elected National President in the same congress for the 2012-2014 term. CEGP is the oldest and largest existing intercollegiate alliance of student publications in the country. The organization is now in its 81st year from its founding date on July 25, 1931. Some of their famous alumni included Wenceslao Vinzons, the youngest member of the 1935 Constitutional Convention, human rights advocate Satur Ocampo who and current senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago. There were three Lyceans who served as presidents of the guild; these include Juanito Garay whose term was from 19601961, Eduardo Marfori, from 1963-1965 and Ronalyn Olea, from 2002-2004.
CITHM student hailed as Environista 2012
by Anna Patricia N. Peralta Amos Ignacio, first year Cruise Line Operations and Culinary Arts student, was hailed as Environista 2012 last September 7 at the JPL Hall of Freedom. Ignacio bested 61 contenders vying for the Environista title and is the first male winner in years. “Di pa rin ako makapaniwala
na nanalo ako... wala po talaga kasi akong experience in ramping or modelling or posing. Super saya ko,” Ignacio said after the event. The winning costume was designed by Aaron dela Cruz, a fourth year College of International Tourism and Hospitality Management (CITHM) student. He found inspiration in armor-
themed costumes frequently donned by cosplayers. “Na-inspire ako gumawa ng armor na gawa sa recycled [materials] kasi nasa perception doon na kailangan ng may guardian ‘yong tubig o kailangan proktektahan ‘yong tubig ngayong panahon na ‘to,” dela Cruz said. This year’s theme, Atlantis: Unveiling the Glamour of the
Deep, showcased garments made from recyclable items and highlighted materials found underwater. The theme of the event served as an “eye-opener,” according to LPU Environmental Society President Paul Meer, because “water pollution in the Philippines is rampant”. Everyone should be aware and “know the importance
of water resources and the beauty of marine life,” Meer added. Ignacio took home a cash prize of 3,000 pesos. Sheen Ibañez, who bagged first runner up received 2,500; Ara Valenzuela who ranked second received 2,000; Sean Mendoza who came in third received 1,500, and Kim Akiko who was fourth went home with 1,000 in cash prizes.
June - August 2012
THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
NEWS
3
Bomb scare disrupts LPU Manila classes by Redhor Markie J. Mendoza A bomb scare triggered a half-day class suspension at the LPU Manila Campus last October 10, 2012. A CITHM student named Bernard Francis Mendoza said he found a note inside the ground floor male comfort room at 10:30a.m.
The note stated that a bomb will explode at 3:40PM at the campus. The note was then forwarded to Detachment Officer Christy Glen Placio. The Security Office took note of the threat and contacted the administration, which then contacted the Manila Police District Explosives and Ordnance Division (MPD-EOD).
LPU restructures NSTP program by Sunita Grace D. Nandwani The NSTP1 Program of the Lyceum of the Philippines University has been moved to Sundays instead of the previous Monday to Friday classes, effective first semester of the academic year 2012-2013. According to Ms. Devy Galang, NSTP 1 Coordinator, “It was a management decision to move it to a Sunday to address the lack of [school] resources.” Although NSTP 1 classes have been moved to a Sunday, it is “still aligned with the modules, with the same content & structure,” says Ms. Galang. Duration of classes has also been adjusted from 3 hours to 4 hours a week. The e-learning system is a new addition to the NSTP program that aims to provide an extension from classroom sessions. Students enrolled in the program are now divided into three batches to accommodate the e-learning system. Through this feature, students can access modules through the myLPU Learning Portal Website outside the school premises. Ms. Galang noted that the students still get the required number of meetings in the new program. She also said that the syllabus this semester was made to provide students more information per session.
LPU Scholastic Society restarts by Justine Mae M. Manaloto The Lyceum of the Philippines University Scholastic Society (LPU-SS), formerly known as Lambda Sigma Kappa, conducted its first academic scholars’ assembly on July 3, 2012 at the Mini Theatre, signalling its revival as an organization in LPU. LPU-SS is an organization composed of the academic scholars in LPU. Membership in the organization is non-voluntary as academic scholars are automatically admitted therein. The revival of the said organization is due to instructions given by Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Dr. Conrado E. Iñigo Jr., according to Student Affairs’ Assistant Dean and LPU-SS Adviser Ms. Noemi Villarante. Based on official records, LPU has a total of 768 academic scholars
as of July 2012. LPU-SS is currently led by its transition officers, with Ms. Geinah Mae Constantino as President. Ad hoc committees were also created to facilitate its functions and objectives. Included are the membership and communication, ethics, planning, program, and election committees. The priority program of LPU-SS is the Athletes’ Learning Assistance Program (ALAP) targeted to begin this academic year. ALAP is a tutoring program wherein academic scholars will assist LPU athletes with their academics. It aims to help athletes to do well both in sports and academics. LPU-SS also plans to conduct seminars, trainings and outreach programs which are, as per Ms. Villarante, “...related to [the] improvement of the scholars’ academic performance, leadership, and social responsibility”.
Professors told the students that there was an emergency half-day suspension starting at 12 noon, citing a “school holiday”. The MPD-EOD found no traces of explosives in and around the entire vicinity of the university and declared it clear an hour after. The administration decided to retain the suspension of the entire half-day of classes and those
exams that were affected by it will be rescheduled to next week. Because of the recent incident, the Security Office implemented new security measures. According to Placio, six additional CCTV cameras have been installed in the campus. Each of the three campus gates has one camera each, and the President’s Office has three new
CCTV cameras. “To make sure no bombs can be sneaked inside the campus, we now use an under chassis mirror to check vehicles entering the campus and metal detectors for people entering the campus gates and the gym. And even though we use metal detectors, we still have to check the bags,” Placio said. (with reports from Kenno S. Nishioka)
LPU implements CCTV monitoring
LPU-Manila’s added CCTV cameras. The Security Office shall be monitoring more closely the whole university premises. Photo by Kristian Matthew V. Geronimo
by John Francis Aris P. Endriga The Security Office and the Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) Administration implemented the closed-circuit television (CCTV) monitoring to all college department offices last August 8, 2011. The main purpose of the project is to catch the culprits behind various thefts within campus and to stop pointing fingers whenever items are lost, says Security Office Detachment Officer Cristy Glen Placio. Placio explained that recent incidents showed that people have the tendency of pin-
pointing an alleged suspect which in most cases is not the real culprit. After a year of implementation, the Security office stands proud that the project’s mission of identifying culprits has been attained. “Crimes have been solved through the use of the CCTV camera. Real suspects have been convicted and faculty members learned never to pinpoint; they went to our office to confirm the validity of their accusations,” said Placio. The Security Office now monitors 20 CCTV cameras located in every college department offices. The LPU Administration also
approved the installation of 10more cameras which will be placed at the university gates, the hallways and the administration offices. “The Security Office is aware that crime is not limited within the college departments,” said Placio. Besides the CCTV, the LPU administration also implemented the turnstile system on entrances for students this year, aimed to part students from visitors. “Additional nine security guards have also been added to strengthen the security force capable of ensuring the safety within the universities premises,” Placio concluded.
Ang Sarap ng Adobo!
LPU triumphs Adobo Design Awards 2012 by Camille Flores R. De Mayo Lyceum of the Philippines University – Manila student won the Best Design Award – Bratpack Theme Category, in the previous Adobo Design Awards 2012 held last April 20 at the Ayala Musem. Justine de Jesus, a 4th year Mass Communication major in Advertising student, won the award for his design of a bag accessory with the theme, “You are the Juan”. The theme called for the best designs promoting Philippine tourism. Adobo Magazine, the Philippines’ premier advertising and
brand communications publication, is behind the Adobo Design Awards: a competition which acknowledges the Philippines’ best advertising campaigns and the talents behind the work. The said competition was judged by international panel of judges. New York-based design strategist, communications consultant, and celebrated shoe designer, Brian Tenorio headed the panel. Top ad people like Managing Partner and Chief Creative Officer of TBWA/SMP, Melvin Mangada; Ace Saatchi & Saatchi’s Executive Creative Director, Andrew Petch; BBDO Chairman and Chief
Creative Officer, David Guerrero; and JWT Manila’s Executive Creative Director Dave Ferrer have meticulously scrutinized the entries based on international standards of creativity. Works were also evaluated by renowned designers and illustrators Dan Matutina, Robert Alejandro, AJ Dimarucot, and Yodel Pe. Top names of established graphic design studios such as Studio 5′s creative director BG Hernandez, Team Manila’s Jowee Alviar and Mon Punzalan, and Electrolychee’s Marcus Nada were also present to critique the entries. continue to page 14
The Winner and The Coach. Justine de Jesus and Coach Dan Villa show off their Best Design trophyfrom Adobo Design Awards 2012. Photo courtesy of Justine De Jesus
4 EDITORIAL
THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
OPINION
June - August 2012
Représailles
Independence is a word synonymous to freedom. It also happens to be part of the name of this publication. The role of the media as the watchdog—which is the denotative meaning of Sentinel—is to sentry the government and the people in every transaction done, every program implemented, and encourage people to think. They also have the inherent right to express themselves freely without any restraint or pressure from any party. It is in the Sentinel Charter’s Article II Section 3 signed by concerned parties that we are entitled to freedom of expression provided that we abide by the university’s regulations and the Laws of the Republic of the Philippines. As far as we’re concerned, publishing stories that affect the student body and make Lyceans think more critically is not a form of any violation. Furthermore, we are not a public relations tool that can be used to merely represent the university. While we agree that we should project an image that benefits the Lycean community, our sole responsibility is to inform, raise the critical thinking and social awareness of our students. This is done by publishing news be it positive or negative. News is relative. Students have different interests of what they want to read and various ways of how they want to interpret them. True enough, what is newsworthy to an administrative official may be different to what is newsworthy to the students. We choose the latter subject, for this publication exists primarily because and for the studentry. We define newsworthiness as a characteristic of an article that manifests its importance to the audience. Lyceans may feel proud if we inundate them with news trumpeting the achievements of this institution. However, we want to encourage them to think. We want to inspire them to express themselves by writing about a variety of issues, be it against or promoting the same governing body of the university and its programs. We want to rouse their feelings be it positive or negative. We want them to have a personal link with the institution tasked to mold them to successful individuals. As what the late Isagani Yambot, former publisher of the Philippine Daily Inquirer, once said, it is the nature of news to be seen as negative for they tell people about something that is out of the ordinary. Students are pro-active when they think, when they ask, when they question, when they see points for improvements and speak up, and when they say that they are proud to be a Lycean despite the flaws of our institution. We do not need mere nods of agreement, healthy arguments improve the way people think. In a university whose students are criticized for passiveness, this is one of the ways we dare to use to make our own moves for eradicating indifference. We have said our piece and justified our stance. Our independence is valued. Our independence is reaffirmed. Our independence is assured and will always be as long as we know we are delivering news that matter. With this we renew our commitment to being a non-biased sentinel. We are not to bow to any pressures that direct us to judge differently. The media exists as a bridge between an administration and its people. They are critical and objective watchdogs for the community. They publish stories with impact to the people to instigate awareness— they write what is relevant and useful. They have a responsibility to present facts with accuracy—they write to inform. These are few of the many duties and responsibilities paramount in the minds of The Sentinel staff. For the students, for our LPU, for Veritas et Patria.
Acta non Verba The flame of nationalism is burning in China.I wonder why it is not so in the Philippines. In China, the youth plays a vital role in pressuring their government ruled by the Communist Party to maintain a strong stand on issues affecting their country. In the country where you, dear student, are standing at this moment, hope on the youth is fast fading. Rizal may even do an ultra-high-angle reverse face palm once he sees the Filipino youth with little or no interest in issues indirectly affecting him one way or another—especially on foreign policy. Disputes in the West Philippine Sea in general, and the Scarborough Shoal standoff in particular, are now serving us an extra-large order of reality, with extra troubles and realizations on the side. The shoal’s “extreme proximity” to Zambales at 220 km, compared to 840 km from the nearest coast of China’s Hainan province is primary proof that it is ours. Under the 200-nautical mile rule based on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the shoal is well within our Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). China asserts otherwise. Despite a valid claim, our very own people are more apathetic than international observers. Our warship’s attempted arrest of Chinese fishing vessels on April 10 for poaching giant clams and corals resulted to a standoff leading to a chain of events which slapped us with a fact: we are on our own. US pledged itself neutral, and ASEAN members are unwittingly divided. Truly we can never rely on anything or anybody else but on our own abilities and capabilities as a country, which should ideally be as an independent nation. What’s depressing is the fact that our government has been doing a lot of blunders—possibly sprouting from amateurism, or they simply know little on how to deal with the Chinese. The more depressing fact is that few people even care.
When we asserted our claim in the shoal, China was on a very sensitive period. Political dilemmas loomed, factions arose, and the populace criticized the government for being weak. Their regime
efforts are useless, the more we are inclined to lose the fight. Prove the skeptics wrong. Prove that nationalism still exists in this country once ravaged by colonial masters, criticized for a damaged culture, and infected
Think of what you, as a Filipino youth, can do to express your support in peacefully solving this impasse. True enough we do less than what officials can, but the more we think that our individual efforts are useless, the more we are inclined to lose the fight.
preyed on our territorial claims to make them appear strong and gain their people’s confidence. We were portrayed as the provocateur. We were the bad guy, and China used it to rebind their implicitly collapsing unity. Collateral damage, if you must call it. It keeps me questioning why such a unity is difficult to forge amongst ourselves. Enough of discerning what went wrong and when this will end. Think of what you, as a Lycean, are doing to support our claim. Think of what you, as a Filipino youth, can do to express your support in peacefully solving this impasse. True enough we do less than what officials can, but the more we think that our individual
with a disease which is so-called colonial mentality. Believing in the legitimacy of our claim is an advantage, voicing our support as a nation is another. We must not simply be passive observers, but active actors in our own ways. Decades ago, Lyceum was an active advocate of nationalism. Sadly, most students nowadays care more about petty issues, showing a problematic miserable paradox in a society of increasing complexities. Lest you start to lose my point, I am demanding you to contribute in your own little ways to unify this country, and not merely say “Yes I care.” You get my point. Use deeds, not just words— acta non verba.
June - August 2012
THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
OPINION
5
I am a Woman
Editor’s Note: I want to thank my Logic professor, Mr. Philip James Miñoza, for giving me insightful ideologies to research on for this piece. (I want you, Lyceans, to read this column with open minds and have a more in-depth analysis of the gender inequality that has long been instilled in our culture. May this inspire you to embrace change, value respect and push you further to be true to your selves.) The philosophy of feminism has long been discussed and debated about. Feminism is often summarized by movements and principles fighting for equal rights of women. But I think it goes beyond the superficial bounds of laws and social order. It is rooted more deeply in a woman’s identity and how she defines herself. It is true that feminism varies in different cultures. However, there is one factor that intertwines its very essence: Equality. Men and women were never seen as equals. Throughout history,
man was the one speaking, creating their superiority by degrading the opposite sex. As Poulain de la Barre put it “Being men, those who have made and compiled the laws have favored their own sex, and jurists have elevated these laws into principles.” Biological differences were also highlighted saying that men are more capable. It was even pointed
out that biologically, women’s brains are smaller. Aristotle said, “The female is a female by virtue of a certain lack of qualities. We should regard the female nature as afflicted with a natural defectiveness.” Are biological disparities enough to negate women? No. By nature, men and women are created differently…and uniquely. Each has
define their own selves. While I agree to this point of Beauvoir, I am not saying that men should be negated in any way nor women should be the superior sex. Women simply call out for fairness. Looking beyond physical characteristics, women can now do what men can. Women are now making their own stands in
“Yes to life, No to RH Bill”. These words printed on tarpaulins outside Churches never fail to grasp my attention whenever I pass by. Growing up in a Catholic school, it was imbibed upon us that the Reproductive Health bill is against life that once the bill is enacted as a law, it would lead to the legalization of abortion and the widespread of pre-marital sex. It was during my sophomore year that we were taught of the DEATH bills that the Church opposes. Divorce, Euthanasia, Abortion, Total reproductive health and Homosexuality (same sex marriage) are the things that they are against. As a devout Catholic, I grew up believing that the RH bill is law thought of by our “evil” politicians who’s only aim was to make money out of it, that it was
“sugar-coated” (as my religion teachers implied) in order to hide DEATH, so that it will be legalized in our country. But growing up, seeing the povertystricken families with their six to ten children in the community, I began to think. I looked up why the Church is
carcinogenic and an abortifacient, that population control is not the only way to reduce poverty or corruption has always been discussed in debates. There are about 95.8 million people in the Philippines alone. More than 10, 000 couples do not have access to family planning
against this. Reasons like the Lord instructed man to “Be fruitful, and multiply” according to Genesis 1:22, that contraceptives are
methods and maternal deaths, according to the Department of Health (DOH), have increased to 221 per 100,000 live births in 2011
“Lyceum studentry has but one malignant disease: APATHY.” – Ronalyn Olea, The Lyceum Independent Sentinel Editor-inChief, 1997-1998 Labinlimang taon na ang lumipas nang isulat ni Ronalyn Olea, dating Punong Patnugot ng The Lyceum Independent Sentinel at Pambansang Pangulo ng College Editors Guild of the Philippines noong 2002 hanggang 2004, sa kanyang kolum ang mga kataga sa itaas na pumupuna sa kawalangpakialam ng mga mag-aaral. Maraming nagbago sa LPU sa loob ng mahabang panahon ngunit nanatiling pasibo ang mga magaaral nito: kimi at walang interes sa mga isyung dapat ay nakikilahok ang kabataan na nakakaapekto sa kanilang pamantasang pinapasukan lalo na sa kanilang sarili. Normal na lang sa kanila ang madalas na pagtaas ng presyo ng langis, walang patumanggang pagtaas ng matrikula at bayarin sa mga paaralan, pananamantala ng mga kumpanya sa mga empleyado’t manggagawa, laganap na kahirapan at tahasang paglabag sa karapatang
pantao ng mamamayan. Maraming nagkikibit-balikat na waring nagpapahayag na, “Eh ano ngayon?” na hindi man lamang nila nalalaman ang ambag ng lipunan sa kanilang buhay. Balikan natin ang mga panahong matikas ang tindig ng mga mag-aaral ng LPU, na noon ay di pa isang unibersidad, laban sa rehimeng Marcos. Sinasabi sa aklat
militanteng pagkilos ng mga Lycean ang pagkakatatag ng isang pahayagang magsisilbi sa interes ng mga mag-aaral. Pinangunahan ni Lyceum Central Student Council (LYCESCO) President Ferdinand Gaite, kasama ng iba pang liderestudyante ang pikikipagdayalogo sa administrasyon ng Lyceum sa pamumuno ng yumaong
outstanding characteristics. Each is born with distinctive traits that must be appreciated. According to Simone de Beauvoir, a renowned French feminist, “One is not born a woman, but rather becomes a woman.” Beauvoir emphasized in her book, The Second Sex, that women should not be confined and defined by culture; that they should be free to recognize their own freedom and
“A woman is someone who is proud of who she is…and who she isn’t.”
Being Catholic and Pro-RH
“I’m not saying that this is the only way to be a responsible parent, but it is a mean that can help them to be one.”
Papulahin ang nagpupula-pulahan
“Hindi dahil nawakasan na ang diktaturyang Marcos, hindi ibig sabihin ay hindi na kailangang labanan at salungatin ang kasalukuyang umiiral na sistema.” ni Teodoro Agoncillo na History of the Filipino People na ang Lyceum of the Philippines at Unibersidad ng Pilipinas ang nangunguna sa pagkilos ng kabataan laban sa mapaniil na pamahalaan. Malaking tagumpay ng
University President Sotero H. Laurel sa pangangailangan ng isang pahayagang magiging boses ng mga mag-aaral. Nabuhay ang “The Lyceum Independent Sentinel” sa pamamamagitan ng pagbabarikada
a world once dominated by men. Empowerment is the new drive of feminism. It is here, blossoming. And I believe it will continue to prosper. Idealistic as it is, equality is still deemed not possible by many. True, culture can’t be changed overnight. Traditions are hard to reconstruct. Though, I still suppose it can happen. Change may be gradual. But it is slowly taking place. Women will still have to continue to fight for their rights and place in society. The struggle for fairness is a never-ending battle… and I think it is a good thing. For when there is resistance, it fuels women to prove themselves even more and show society what they are capable of.
What then is a woman? A woman is someone who speaks her mind but still exudes respect, someone who takes a firm stand, someone who understands responsibility and freedom, someone who defies the norms, someone who dares, someone who continually pushes herself to the limits even though majority tells her she can’t. A woman is someone who values herself and sees her honor and digni-ty as priceless. A woman is someone who is proud of who she is…and who she isn’t. I am a woman. I am willing to embrace change, to live and continue striving in a society filled with judgment and oppositions. Are you?
from 162 per 100,000 live births in 2009. It also wishes to educate the youth in reproductive health so that they would understand better the pros and cons of sexual intimacy. Lastly, no provision on legalizing abortion is stated anywhere in the said bill. How can a bill be labeled antilife if it wishes to address all the problems stated above? The objective of our legislators who support this bill only want to give couples the choice of what family planning method is appropriate for their use. They
also want to educate the youth on matters regarding sexuality and intimacy, but more important they want to lessen the cases of mothers and their children dying because of the lack of health care attention that is not given to them. Although the Church agree in family planning, they only allow natural means like symptomsbased, calendar-based and lactation methods which all rely on the biological signs of a female’s fertility, the Church still promotes abstinence to prevent unwanted pregnancies. However, how can one continue to page 14
sa tapat ng Lyceum ang mga magaaral kasama ng mga miyembro ng akademya ng halos isang linggo simula Nobyembre 24, 1985. Naparalisa ang mga klase noong panahong iyon at patuloy ang negosasyon ng mga liderestudyante sa administrasyon hanggang Disyembre 9, 1985. Unti-unting namatay ang kamulatang panlipunan ng mga Lycean pagkaraang mapatalsik sa pwesto si Marcos. Karamihan, kundi man lahat sa atin ay di na naabutan ang masikhay na pagkilos ng mga Lycean tungo sa tunay na pagbabago. Hindi dahil nawakasan na ang diktaturyang Marcos at sinasabing naibalik na ang demokrasya sa bansa, hindi ibig sabihin ay hindi na kailangang labanan at salungatin ang kasalukuyang umiiral na sistema patuloy na hindi nagsisilbi
ng tunay sa sambayanan. Marahil marami ang nabulag sa maningning na dilaw ng “demokrasya.” Hindi ko sinasabi na kayo’y tumungo sa kalsada upang ipahayag ang inyong karaingan at maging bahagi ng parlyamentaryo ng lansangan. Pagpapasya n’yo kung kayo’y kikilos at ipaabot ang inyong tinig nang malinaw at malakas. Dahil hindi sapat ang mag-isip ng paraan kung walang kaukulang pagkilos. Tayo ang magmamana ng bayang ito. Hindi ba’t mas maganda kung tayo ang kikilos tungo sa tunay na malayang lipunan at ituwid ang baluktot na sistemang tinatapakan ang karapatan ng mamamayan? Ang ating pagnanais ng magandang bukas ay hindi natin makakamtan kung walang tapat na titindig para sa kapakanan ng nakararami at ng naaapi.
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THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
NEWS
June - August 2012
ITD installs Turnstile System by Mark Kenneth P. Cabusay and Klinton Jean C. Dayson
What are your insights about the university’s new canteen? The new canteen is different from the previous one when it comes to food, setting, maintenance etc. I noticed the decline of the compliance with 5s among the students. Also, the staff is a bit slow on attending to the customers’ needs. -Gladys Yuson/4th year BS IR-D The new canteen looks nice. It is a huge improvement compared to the former one. However the prices are too expensive for my budget. It would be great if they have more choices especially on snacks and merienda. -Amanel Panganiban/3rd year BS ECE The new canteen provides better ambience. The lighting is good and the foods are more appetizing. However, most of the foods are very expensive! -Noel Angelo Chavez/4th year BS Nursing How do you think should the government address the problem regarding our relationship with China? It may need to consult strategic experts and use the media more prudently on this issue. It shall still, as always, resort to diplomatic, multilateral ways to deal with China because Philippines’ claim to those territories is valid. Right makes might. -Darwin Quirino/4th year BS IR-D I think the government should decide on a precise stand to take and be true to that decision a hundred percent. As of late, the government’s actions seems inadequately vague to me. Compromise seems inevitable in the situation, but the government should remain adamant with regards to what it wants. -Queenie Jane Segovia/4th year AB Journalism What do you think of PNOY’s recent SONA? I think he could have addressed more “urgent” issues. The studies and statistics about our economic status don’t match at all with PNOY’s SONA. Much more improvement is needed to be done. -Jamie Anne Fernandez/BSIR-D He did not state the real status of the country especially the problem in poverty. He discussed more about our economy but there are other issues that needed to be addressed. -Sittie Sharima Mastura/3rd year AB Legal Studies What do you think of how the university varsity teams represent our university at the NCAA games? I think the teams need more practice. We should also get more quality players in order to win games. -Bryan Christopher Garcia/2nd year BS ECE The varsity teams need to double their training so that in their next games, they would be able to have a better chance of winning. -Denisse Desierto/2nd year BS ITTM They need to exert more effort and engage in more trainings! -Katrina May Edillon/1st year BS IT
The Information Technology Department (ITD) recently installed the new turnstile access system at gate 2 in replacement of the old ID scanner access control unit that went down during the middle of the 1st semester of academic year 2011-2012. “It’s time to upgrade” said ITD AV-Media Unit Head Mark Louie Reyes who shared that the Lyceum of the Philippines Cavite campus was successful in implementing the same system. The turnstile access system is the technology used in public transportation such as the Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Metro Rail Transit (MRT). It is the gate that has a mechanized barrier which restricts passage to people, the barrier will only let someone enter by using a certain pass, in the school’s case; it will be through the Smart ID cards. Four turnstile units were installed at Gate 2; it will act as the new entry and exit point for students. Upon entry or exit, students must tap their ID’s on the machine in order to move the barriers. Replacing the Old System The students before used the ID scanner access control unit wherein they swipe their smart IDs on the embedded scanner at the wall of gate 2. The said unit broke down due to hardware failure and poor maintenance. “The developers who made the ID scanner system no longer works for the school, furthermore the technicians did not intend to fix it,” shared Reyes. “Because it is already out-dated and is not able to handle the number of students in LPU. Improved Security Measures With the school’s new turnstile system, the ITD will
K-12
The New Entry and Exit Point. The students use their Smart ID cards to exit the school premises using the newly installed turnstile system. Photo by Joshua Alan P. Allanigue
require every student, from freshmen to seniors, to revalidate their ID’s for them to make use of the machine. Furthermore the Student Affairs Office (SAO) shall also produce new security guidelines and applications once the system is installed. “Only those bona fide students having their original IDs, validated, are the only ones who’ll be able to enter,” Reyes added.
The ITD plans to set up a booth for the registration of their data in the new system, it is also their way to look for defective IDs. “This system will also improve the student’s security because the system can indicate if a certain student is within the school premises once he/she passes through the turnstile. To exit, the student is required to pass through the same way once again,” Reyes ended.
from page 1
Education) the K to 12 is not new,” said Dr. Dennis Saluba, member of the Board of Directors of Lyceum Faculty Association. “The proposal to expand the basic education dates back to 1925 wherein according to the Monroe Survey of 1925: Secondary education did not prepare for life and recommended training in agriculture, commerce and industry,” Dr. Saluba added. The Philippines currently has a ten-year basic education program which is two years short from the Western educational system of 12 years. Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, Timor-Leste, Vietnam and other countries in Asia have a 12-year basic education program. K-12 aims to produce graduates ready for
employment, equipped with necessary knowledge and skills. To be able to be at part with the global standard, the Aquino administration devised K-12 as a compliance to the global standard. “There are only two countries in Asia which are noncompliant with the global educational system,” Dr. Iñigo said. According to Kabataan Partylist, the labor export policy of the government pushes K-12 to produce cheap labor for the global market and Filipinos need jobs in their homeland with adequate salary, proper benefits, and security of tenure. Students under this program will graduate at the age of at least 18 and who would be able to enter an employment contract overseas.
“Rather than spreading further the education budget for this big project, which merely reflects the politics of educational reform in our country, the State should concentrate its efforts and budget in basic education – improving the quality, building science education, scholarship, establishing centers for teachers continuing education,” the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) stated. “We can be certain that the K to 12 Program of the current government will not raise the quality of Philippine education. Instead, it will only lengthen the suffering of students in a decrepit, corrupt and miserably underfunded system,” ACT added.
June - August 2012
SPECIAL REPORT
China expert shed light on Scarborough Shoal dispute
Graphics by Earl Joseph G. Quan “I think, to understand what’s happening now, we have to have a big picture [of the issue]. And the big questions are: Why is she acting this way? What is it that changed the Chinese Foreign Policy?” These are the questions stressed by multi-awarded journalist and Chinese expert, Chito Sta. Romana, in a lunch forum held on July 25 in the LPU Boardroom in an effort to understand the factors that sparked the Scarborough Shoal dispute. The shoal is 220 km off Zambales, compared to 840 km from the nearest coast of China’s Hainan province. Under the 200-nautical mile rule of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), it is within the Philippine Exclusive Economic Zone. The Background After the Berlin Wall collapsed in 1989, China under Deng Xiao Ping adopted a low profile policy and cooperated with the US to kick-start economic development. “China actually succeeded. They were able to develop their
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THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
by Cleo Angeline B. Cachapero economy from a 500 billion GDP economy to roughly 1 trillion by 2000,” Sta. Romana explained. Their admission to the World Trade Organization in 2001 propelled even more growth. Their debate is whether to change Deng Xiao Ping’s nonconfrontational policy and be more assertive. “The people on top…still wanted to go with [it]. [However] there was a very strong pressure from the Nationalists, the Hardliners, and the military,” he clarified. The hardliners use China’s rise in a multipolar settingas an opportunity tobeaggressiveon core issues, but stillmaintain in general a nonconfrontational policy. The core issues in China’s perspective are regime survival, economic development, and national sovereignty which directly affects the Philippines, being a rival claimant on several islands in the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). Chinese claim a paradox In a formal letter to the United Nations in 2009, China reaffirmed their claim on all the
islands in the West Philippine Sea which are above water level in high tide. China’s arguments used History and their view of International Law, which for Sta. Romana, was a paradox. “The Chinese position is both strong and weak. It’s a paradox. The problem is…a historical claim does not become a historical title unless you occupy it effectively over a long period of time,” he said. Sta. Romana said the Chinese are addressing this weakness through erecting structures, sending fishermen, and patrols to these contested islands. Unnoticed Chinese tactics “If [other claimants will] try to arrest [Chinese fishermen], they will resist,” Sta. Romana said, pertaining to an official announcement from Xinhua, China’s news agency, three years ago.Their newly-launched Coast Guard ship would start accompanying fishing boats in the West Philippine Sea. This was a precedent to the Scarborough Shoal standoff on April 10 where a Philippine Coast Guard ship was stopped
by Chinese ships.The PCG ship was arresting Chinese fishermen who poached in the shoal. Sta. Romana cited two agencies responsible for protecting Chinese fishermen:the Ministry of Agriculture’s Bureau of Fisheries that will escortthefishermen and the China Maritime Surveillance tasked of patrolling the Chinese EEZ. US role in the dispute “They (US and China) are so interdependent that between [them], although there is both cooperation and competition, cooperation is dominant right now,” Sta. Romanaexplained. Both countries cannot afford to be embroiled in a conflict since it would be a “mutuallyassured destruction,” he added. The US is taking a neutral stand, owing to their relationship with China. The Mutual Defense Treaty between the US and the Philippines “applies but is not automatic,” he clarified. Accordingly, the Chinese targeted Philippine banana exports and tourism sector. This economic move was likened to a warning shot by Sta. Romana,
saying due to inner party politics, the Chinese did not opt for a military move which might have also drawn the US in. PH as collateral damage “China is now in a stage of leadership transition,” he explained, pertaining to China’s upcoming Party Congress and leadership transition. The former is every five years and the latter once a decade. This stage demanded a picture of strength from the government. Moreover, the day of the standoff was the same day the Chinese Politburo announced the suspension of Bo Xilai, a top leader expected to be in the top 9 members of the Standing Committee. To consolidate factions and maintain domestic stability, their propaganda department used the issue of national sovereignty— specifically the Philippines’ assertion of sovereignty in the shoal to rouse public attention. “We became the target in order to unite the different factions in China…together with the public…against an interloper or an intruder,” Sta. Romana said.
Consult Project Noah by Geinah Mae C. Constantino and Edgardo Rafael F. Aguilar Suspension of classes is usually a big issue among Lyceans. Late suspensions cause delay and waste of time, especially among students and faculty members. But now, with just a click of a button, one can know if there will be heavy rains or floods in their area through the Nationwide Operational Assessment of the Hazards otherwise known as Project NOAH. Project NOAH was launched last July and spearheaded by President Benigno Aquino III. Its main objective is to improve rain and flood forecasting through accurate reporting and dissemination of weather information in real time. This is to eradicate the thinking that rainfall is random and cannot be predicted and to improve the reputation of the country’s forecasting bodies. Furthermore, it aims for a more accurate, integrated, and responsive disaster prevention and mitigation system, especially in high-risk area throughout the Philippines. Promising a 90% accuracy on all its outputs; the Project will gather technologies and management services for disaster risk reduction activities offered by the DOST through PAGASA,
PHIVOLCS, and the DOST-Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI), in partnership with the UP National Institute of Geological Sciences and the UP College of Engineering. “If rainfall is not random, then we should be able to predict it—by looking at the indicators, trends, and so on and so forth,” said University of the Philippines scientist Carlos Primo “CP” David, one of the pioneers of the project. NOAH can also be utilized by the university’s Emergency Communication Group (ECG) especially in making decisions whether to suspend or not during floods or typhoons to avoid late suspensions. Open the website. If you turn on the rainfall contour option on the overview menu, it will show the map of the Philippines with color overlays. The map shows where there had been rainfall in the country in the past hour. The colors correspond to different amounts of rainfall: light blue for light to no rain; blue for moderate rain; dark blue for heavy rain; yellow, intense rain; and red, torrential rain. Knowing what the colors stand for, you can avoid flooded place and know if your place is likely to be flooded within hours. Be in the know. Check it out Lyceans http:// noah.dost.gov.ph/.
Graphics by Hershey Deatrix B. Castro
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June - August 2012
THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
FEATU
Origin of Popular Street Names by Anna Patricia N. Peralta
Thoughts from
Photos by Ron Kevin M. Aratan
and Graphics by Medy C. Estonactor
E
ver wondered why the streets were named after some people you’re not really familiar with? It’s possible you’ve heard the names in your history class discussions, but you vaguely remember them because you were busy talking to your friends, discreetly passing notes, or sleeping (Don’t deny it. We all know history is very exciting). Here’s a list of some of the more common streets in Manila and the history behind them: 1.Pablo Ocampo Sr. Street, more commonly (not to mention formerly) known as Vito Cruz Street. Pablo Ocampo was a lawyer, journalist, member of the Malolos Congress (during its second phase) and resident commissioner to the United States. He tried to thwart the Payne Tariff Bill that established free trade between the US and the Philippines which he deemed unjust because it allowed unlimited entry of American goods in the country whereas Filipino goods were given limited entry in the US. 2.Pedro Gil Street. One of the busiest and congested streets along Taft Ave. was named after a “physician, crusading newspaperman with a vitriolic pen and conscientious legislator”. He was identified with opposition groups, often leading movements against abuses in government. 3.Padre Faura was named in honor of Federico Faura, a Jesuit priest who founded the Manila Observatory. He designed the aneroid barometer, the most accurate weather gauge in the area (at the time), for use in the Philippines. 4.Kalaw Street was named after Don Teodoro M. Kalaw, the youngest editor of El Renancimiento, an extreme nationalist paper. He was a staunch critic of abusive American officials during the American regime.
and behi
5.Roxas Boulevard (formerly known as Dewey Blvd) was named after the 5th president of the Republic of the Philippines – Manuel A. Roxas. Under his term, the legislation of Republic Acts began. 6.Ongpin Street, a very familiar street in Binondo, was named after a Filipino-Chinese businessman, philanthropist, and nationalist who unwaveringly supported the Philippine Revolution in secret. 7.Recto Street was named after former Senator Claro M. Recto. He presided over the constitutional convention in accordance to the Tydings-McDuffie Act which required drafting a constitution as part of the steps leading to Philippine independence. 8.Padre Burgos Street was named after one of the clergymen (collectively known as GOMBURZA) who were accused in connection to the Cavite Mutiny and was placed in an unfair trial and was executed soon afterwards at Bagumbayan (Luneta Park). 9.Mapua Street was named after the first registered architect in the Philippines Don Tomas M a p u a who was
known for his great contributions in the field of architecture notably during his tenure at the Bureau of Public Works. He designed the Manila Post Office Building. 10. R. Hidalgo a street infamous to photography enthusiasts and the like, is named after Filipino artist Felix Resurreccion Hidalgo, one of the great Filipino painters in the late 19th century. In 1884, he was awarded a silver medal in the Madrid Exposition of Fine Arts, though this was overshadowed by Luna’s gold award (for Spolarium). As you can probably tell, the names of the streets some of us pass by everyday hold some historical and cultural significance. The story behind the names shouldn’t be forgotten for it serves as a reminder of the ideals, noble deeds and national pride of Filipinos in the past that we should continue striving for today.
by Anna Patricia N. Peralta and Orland Lesty C. Quilente
“
S
a Lawton lang yan kuya, isang estudyante po,” a young passenger says to a fare collector on his way to school one morning. “Wala pong estudyante ngayon, Sabado eh.” The fare collector says back. Majority of the student population rely heavily on public transportation to get to school. Implementation of the supposed twenty percent fare discounts for students is widespread. However, despite knowing that colleges conduct classes on weekends, almost all public utility vehicle operators interpret “school days” as weekdays only. Clarifying the LTFRB memo Memorandum Circular #2011-004 is currently the only basis of the fare discounts for students. It states that a “PUV operator shall grant fare discounts to students during school days”. Most students have regular classes on Saturdays and mandatory civilian military or national service training programs on Sundays. Because of the common misconception, students are not getting the fare discounts they should be getting. If a PUV operator fails to grant fare discounts to students, they can be fined by as much as 2,000, 3,000 and 5,000 pesos for a first, second and third offense respectively. In addition to the fine, a 60-day suspension of “for hire” plates will be given to a two-time offender and cancellation of their certificate to operate a PUV for a three-time offender.
Effects “Whe meetings at s totals to 33 pesos during really notice up to a prett says Pawell Engineering University o commutes ev On an aver month, that’s from Pawel allocated to and such. Nes Sa Broadcasting travels from via FX and discounts. H pesos per day goes to tran remains for m discounts we Siruno’s fare pesos. On an in a month, much as 440 Transp speak up Lawren in Makati sa is okay but th A member o Operators an Philippines with the gro the minimum not marking The A Transport O on the same
URES
THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
m the passenger seat
ind the wheel
of the misinterpretation enever we have [group] school on Saturdays, my fare pesos whereas it’s only 27 g weekdays. Students don’t e the difference but it adds ty large amount in a month,” Jester de Villa, a Mechanical g student from Technological of the Philippines (TUP). He veryday to TUP from Cavite. rage of four Saturdays per ’s a total of 48 pesos deducted ll’s allowance that could be school-related projects
allie Siruno, a 3rd year g student of LPU-Manila, m Novaliches to Lyceum d does not receive any fare Her fare totals to at least 110 y. “Majority of my allowance nsportation expenses. Little my food budget,” she says. If ere given in FX’s or shuttles, e could decrease by at least 22 n average of 20 school days she could be reallocating as 0 pesos to her food budget. port groups and drivers
nce Garcia, a jeepney driver ays that giving the discount hey need to increase the fare. of the Federation of Jeepney nd Drivers Association of the (FEJODAP), Garcia agrees oup’s plea to add to P2.00 to m fare, since the oil price is g down. Alliance of Concerned Organization or ACTO are e page with FEJODAP in the
increase. However, ACTO says that the only reason why they need the increase is because the government is failing to control the price of oil inside the country. “The government is not keeping a close eye on these oil companies and it’s the commuters that are suffering because of it,” said ACTO President Efren de Luna. ACTO also stated that oil companies should be transparent and explain why their prices increase. Proposed House Bill 90 House Bill 90, co-authored by Aurora Representative Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara seeks to legalize the 20 percent discount for students on land, sea and air transportation. More importantly, it would allow the students to avail the discounts on Saturdays, Sundays, Christmas vacation and other holidays during a school year or semester, provided they present school identification cards, enrolment forms and other documents to ascertain their identity. Defend the privilege While waiting for House Bill 90 to be legalized, students must become aware of their right to discounts as provided by LTFRB. All public utility vehicles have yellow plates, thus all vehicles that carry them must abide the LTFRB rules and regulations. PUV’s should give the discount students are entitled to, even if it is a measly couple of pesos. Students must recognize and defend that privilege. For frugal students after all, a peso saved is a peso earned. Note: Visit the LTFRB website (http://www.ltfrb.gov.ph/) for more information and/or to file complaints and voice out concerns, or call (02) 426 2515 / 925 7191 or text 0921448777
9
Photo by Ron Kevin M. Aratan
Transport Tales 101
A
by John Manuel M. Manaloto
Photos by Ron Kevin M. Aratan
June - August 2012
nother Monday: you wake up, brush up, and dress up for school. On the sidewalk, you waited and finally wave your hands as you see the approaching vehicle that will take you to your destination. Inside, you pay your fare and sit comfortably as your favorite tune from your iPod revv your day up. Everything seems normal until… I’d cut in. You’re not reading a quack chapter in your life. The next things you’re about to read are some of the (un)usual situations you experience while onboard a transit; things that can make you pissed, indifferent, and puzzled. Before we lose our way, let’s stop by these scenes. The ride’s about to start, hop in! PDA in PUV’s The ride: Almost anywhere as long as there are untamed lovebirds traveling with you. The episode: Two lovers, be it heteros or homos, hugging, petting and on some instances, kissing, while embarking on a trip with other passengers. Bold partners opt to do it with many spectators eyeing them (Public Display of Affection), albeit the cautious choose to do it somewhere dark and obscured (Private and Discreet Affection) so as to enjoy themselves more. The say: Being raised in a conservative culture, your parents see these things as violations to social norms and believe that passion should be left at bed. And, you don’t have to be dad or mom to think that (unless you’ve already been one since you felt otherwise). Student’s discount: Not counted The ride: Jeepneys, buses, and FX’s drivers/ conductors, usually during nighttime and weekends (more often than not, everyday), assume that there are no more students on the road. The episode: You receive your change, count and found out that it lacks a few pesos. You ask the driver and/or conductor for the missing coins, saying you’re a student. He said they don’t have that kind of rate that Saturday night for there are no classes that day. You, as a tired student from your night class, chose not to argue and suffer being left on a deserted sidewalk, going home on foot. The say: It is stated in a memorandum released
by the LTFRB (Land Transportation Franchise Regulatory Board) last March 20, 2012 that: “students should be given discounts EVERYDAY during SCHOOL DAYS.” Violating the said rule could cost a few thousands and/or cancellation of the vehicle’s franchise. Not counting discounts could mean they could be “discounted” big time. Tell that to “manong” should you have the balls. The Cavalier’s Custom The ride: PNR’s trains and MRT/LRT The episode: The “sardines on wheels” stop at the station. Plenty of men are stacked standing until finally a seat has been vacated by a passenger who dislodged at the station. Culture tells you that they will leave the seat and give it to a woman standing with them. True, they left the space untouched. Untouched, even though there is no lady in need of it. They’re all hombres inside. It remained as such until the train was emptied on its last station. The say: The Filipino men, cavaliers we are, will do and not do anything to remain in knight’s honor even at the cost of practicality and sound judgment. That’s how great we value our oaths, princesses. Fill it up (Side Down) The ride: Jeepney The episode: Passengers keep filling up the jeep at every stop – packing the transport up against the law of humanity and in line with the law of the streets. Common sense tells you that the seat near the driver should be piled up first so as to allow the later passengers go inside with ease and have their fares passed up easily to the driver by their mates who boarded earlier. But, what really happens is the opposite, thus giving the passengers and the driver a hard time throughout the trip. The say: Most travelers pick the parts farthest the driver mostly for two reasons: to have ease in exiting the transport; and to avoid the seemingly tedious yet humane task of passing up another’s fare. Not to mention guys who do that for a chance to be freed from paying itself. It has not been the usual monotonous boring travel, has it? Things are just out there sitting beside you that will ignite your interest. You just have to take those earphones off sometime and begin to observe. It seems like you overrun your destination. Time to say buh-bye. “Para po!”
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THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
FILIPINO
Para kay Matt... ni Phoebe Chat G. Legaspi
Kuha ni Kristian Matthew V. Geronimo
L
iwanag at dilim: ito ang dalawang bagay na bumubuo sa isang anino na maihahalintulad sa mga pagsubok sa buhay ng tao. Ang anino ay maihahalintulad sa mga nakaraang karanasang kailanma’y hindi malilimutan… mga karanasang madalas ay puno ng mga luha ng kapighatian. Dalawang tao ang nagbahagi sa The LPU Independent Sentinel ng kanilang mga anino sa buhay na mas nagpatatag sa kanila bilang tao. Pusong Matapang Si Aling Lolit, na nagpapagamot sa Philippine General Hospital, ay kasalukuyang lumalaban sa sakit na Breast Cancer. Taong 2011 nang kanyang matuklasan ang kanser sa kanyang dibdib. Isang anino ng pagsubok ang sumaklob hindi lamang sa kanya, kundi sa kanyang buong pamilya. Madalas ay tinatanong niya pa rin sa kanyang sarili kung bakit siya pa ang tinamaan ng ganitong sakit. Di kalaunan ay pinayuhan na siya ng doktor na magtungo sa Maynila upang magpagamot. “Masakit man na maiwan ang aking anak, kailangan ko pa rin umalis.” Malaki ang kanyang pasasalamat sa kanyang mga
“Pangako! Hindi tayo maghihiwalay Pai kahit kailan…” Ito ang katiyakang pinanghawakan ko sa hirap o ginhawa… Iniiwasan ko ng magdamdam sa tuwing mawawala siya. Alam ko namang baka may ginagawa lamang siya na tulad kong abala. Sa umaga nasa harap ko siya na ipinararamdam ang siksik,liglig at umaapaw niyang pagmamahal. Sa hapon nasa likod ko siya upang ipabatid sa akin ang walang sawa niyang pagprotekta. At sa gabi, lumalayo siyang bahagya sa aking tabi. “Si Ulyssis ang galing maggitara. Kinikilig ako sa tuwing kakanta siya sa aking harapan. Kitang kita naman… Siya na!” ani ni Agape na may halong kislap sa kanyang mga mata. “Ah! Si Nunoy naman pareho kami ng hilig. At palagi niya akong pinapaalalahan kung kumain na ba ako, gumawa ng aking takdang aralin o pati kung naligo na ba ako.” Pagbibida ni Francia sa barkadahan. Nabaling na sa akin ang asaran, kwentuhan at pagbibida ng kasintahan. Dali ko silang sinagot ng walang pag aagam-agam at may ngiti sa mukha kong maalinsangan. “Ah! Siya si Matt…Naku! Matipuno yun’ matangkad at higit sa lahat hindi niya ako iniiwan. Laging siyang nasa likod ko sa lungkot man o sa kasiyahan. Legal nga kami sa bahay pati sa simbahan. Ayos na ayos kami.” Wika ko.
June - August 2012
Natapos ito sa isang usapan. Linggo ng umaga bago mag alas otso sa tapat ng simbahan magkikita-kita upang makilala ang bawat isa. Lumipas na ang apat na araw dahil sa sobrang kasabikan ko. Kinabukasan, gaya ng nakagawian kinausap ko siya bandang katanghalian sa tapat ng bahay ni Mang Pite kung saan tapat ang sinag ng araw. Marahan kong hinawakan ang kanyang mga kamay kasabay din nito ang pag abot ng sa kanya. Nararamdaman ko ang kagustuhan niyang marinig ang sasambitin ko. Bigla na lamang nagsaltik ang aking dila na may walang antalang pagbugso ng tinig. “Bukas na yun’. Gusto ka talaga makilala ng mga kaibigan ko. Sinabi ko kung gaano mo ako kamahal sa pagsasakripisyo mo sa bawat oras na ginugol mo sa para masubaybayan ang kalagayan ko.” Masaya kong paglalahad sa kanya. “Kasama kita palagi hindi tulad ng mga kasintahan nila. Maging ano man o sino pa ako, ako lang ang nag iisa sa puso mo. Di ba?” dagdag ko. Hindi siya umiimik. Natutuyuan na rin ako ng laway sa kakahintay ng kasagutan. Tumatagal na. Nagingitim na rin ang aking maputing balat sa init at matinding sikat ng araw. Hindi siya nagsasalita. “Mahal mo ba ko ha?” sigaw ko. Agad-agad tumulo ang aking luha. Naramdaman ng puso ko ang sakit na hindi kayang lunasan ng kahit ano. Hindi niya pa ako iniiwan sa kabila ng walang humpay kong pag iyak sa kanyang harapan. Tinitititigan niya ako. Natitiis niya. Hindi niya ako mahal. Mag iisang buwan na ding hindi ko siya pinapansin. Mawala man siya o nandiyan sa aking tabi wala akong pakialam. Hindi ko pa din
matanggap ang pagsasawalang bahala niya. Binalak kong makipaghiwalay na lamang sa kanya at humingi ng pansamantalang kalayaan. “Itigil mo na nga iyan. Baliw ka na? Nababaliw ka na! Iniisip mo lamang ang relasyon na iyan.” Sabi ng aking mga kaibigang hindi nararamdaman ang lungkot na bumabalot sa aking katawan. Alam ko naiinggit lamang sila. “Hindi mo ako mahal.” Isang pangungusap na tumalima sa aking pag-iisip. Sa kalungkutan, dinala ako ng aking mga paa sa simbahan kung saan ang Pastor ay may itinindig. “Ang pinagsama ng Diyos ay huwag paghiwalayin ng tao…” Marcos 10:9. Napawi ng bersikulong ito sa Bibliya ang kalungkutan na nabuhay sa aking pakiramdam. Napalitan ng pag asa at pagpapatawad. “Hindi naman kita iiwan. Di ba?” Paulitulit niyang binubulong sa puso kong may tampo pa ng bahagya. Nabatid ko na hindi pagtitikis ang ginawa niya sa mga panahon na nalulungkot ako. Ngunit pagpapakita sa akin ang kahalagahan ng pagiging matibay sa kabila ng mga kakaharapin pang pagsubok sa buhay. Tumatagal ang relasyong ito na may purong saya. Sa kanya ko lamang natutunan ang maraming mga bagay. Matagal din bago ko lubos na maunawaan. Lalo ko naiintindihan ang lalim ng kanyang pagmamahal. Pagmamahal na hindi kayang ibigay ng kung sino man. Tunay ngang baliw. Ngunit sa kanya ko lang naramdaman ang tunay at purong pagmamahal. Tama! Mali man kung ako ay manindigan ngunit hindi ko itatanggi na ako’y nagmahal ng isang ANINO.
Ang Tunay na Mukha ng Anino ni Cassandra Lynn B. Dizon at Arlene D. Laguerta
Dibuho ni Dawn Janelle O. Manzano
kapitbahay na ngayon ay tumitingin sa kanyang mga anak. Sa kasalukuyan si Aling Lolit ay patuloy na nagpapagaling. Inspirasyon niya ang kanyang pamilya na nais niya pang
niya itong maging kasangkapan upang mas maging matatag at magkaroon ng magandang pananaw sa buhay. Pusong Nanindigan Ang anino dumating sa buhay ni Mang Henry ay pinili
“Maniwala kayo, marami ang lumuluha sa kulungan.” makapiling ng matagal. Malaki rin ang kanyang tiwala na malalampasan niya ito sa gabay ng Diyos. Isang anino mang maituturing ang pagsubok na ito sa kanyang buhay, pinili
niyang maging isang leksyon. Siya ay isang dating bilanggo na nasangkot sa ilegal na droga. Sa kasalukyan, malaya na siya at kapiling na muli ang kanyang pamilya. Ayon sa kanya, dahil sa hirap
ng buhay kaya siya napilitang kumapit sa patalim. Lima ang kanyang anak na hindi na niya napagtapos ng pag-aaral dahil sa kanyang pagkakakulong ng labindalawang taon. Kanyang ikinwento ang hirap ng buhay sa loob ng kulungan at ang matinding pangungulila niya sa kanyang pamilya. “Maniwala kayo, marami ang lumuluha sa kulungan.” kanyang ibinahagi. Sa kanyang paglaya, nawala na ang anino ng kanyang nakaraan. Ngunit paminsanminsan, kanya pa rin itong binabalikan upang gawing inspirasyon sa pagbabago. Mahirap man ang buhay, siya ay nagsisikap na sa malinis na
paraan. Ang mahalaga para sa kanya ngayon ay kapiling na niya ang kanyang pamilya. At ang aninong minsang sumira sa kanyang buhay ay isa na ngayong leksyon ng buhay na kanyang laging baon. Tulad ni Aling Lolit at Mang Henry, nawa’y magkaroon tayo ng lakas ng loob upang labanan ang mga aninong dumarating sa ating buhay. Lahat tayo ay may kanyakanyang aninong hinaharap sa buhay. Nasa atin ang pasya kung hahayaan ba nating lamunin tayo nito sa kalungkutan at kasawian o kung babangon tayo at haharapin ito upang mas maging mabuti at produktibong tao.
June - August 2012
11
THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
FILIPINO
Ang Istorya ng mga Bakwet
ng Bondoc Peninsula
Kuha ni Joshua Alan P. Allanigue
ni Anna Patricia N. Peralta
GBiyernes sa may kalye
aya ng anumang araw ng
ng España, naghahanda ang mga grupong Gabriela, PISTON, Anakpawis Partylist, Bayan Muna Partylist at iba pang progresibong grupo upang magmartsa patungong Mendiola. Nagtipon ang lahat upang gunitain ang ika21 ng Setyembre – ang ika-40 anibersaryo ng Batas Militar. Ang kanilang pangunahing hinaing ay ang sapilitang pagkawala at ang karahasan ng miyembro ng militar sa populasyong sibil sa Timog Katagalugan – lalo na sa ikatlo at ikaapat na distrito na kilala bilang Timog Quezon at Bondoc Peninsula sa lalawigan ng Quezon. “Wala nang Martial Law subalit nararanasan ng mga mamamayan doon sa Bondoc Peninsula ang lupit at hagupit ng militarisasyon sa ilalim ng
panunungkulan ni Noynoy,” sabi ni Orly Marcellana, isa sa mga pangunahing tagapagsalita para sa Save Bondoc Peninsula Movement, isang alyansang may layuning tapusin ng karahasan ng militar sa lalawigan ng Quezon. Dahil sa pagnanais ng kasalukuyang administrasyon na maalis ang mga rebelde, partikular na ang New People’s Army (NPA), nagpadala ang pamahalaan ng walong batalyon ng militar noong Marso. Ito ay bahagi ng counter insurgency program na “Oplan Bayanihan” na ipinatupad noong nakaraang taon. Simula noon ay may palagiang ulat ng mga krimen na ang nauugnay sa mga sundalo. Ayon sa Save Bondoc Movement, ang KarapatanQuezon ay nakapagtala ng iba’t ibang uri ng paglabag ng militar sa karapatang pantao mula Enero 2011 hanggang Abril 2012: Isang kaso ng sapilitang pagkawala, apat na tortyur, 15 ng ilegal na pag-
aresto, limang ilegal na search and seizure, tatlong pagkuha ng ari-arian, dalawa sa coercion, at 17 kaso ng pagbabanta, panggigipit at pananakot. Upang makatakas sa palagiang takot para sa buhay at kawalan ng katiyakan para sa kaligtasan ng mga sarili sa ilalim ng panununtunan ng militar, ang mga residente (karamihan ay mga mahirap na magsasaka) ay sapilitang lumikas mula sa kani-kanilang lugar. Nitong mga nakalipas na buwan ay dumarami ang mga dumarating na refugee, kilala bilang mga “Bakwet,” sa Maynila upang maghanap ng kublihan sa mga simbahan at iba pang relihiyosong institusyon. Kabilang sa mga taong pumunta sa rali ay si Norma De Mesa, isa sa mga sapilitang lumikas at asawa ng isang magsasaka na tinaga ng isang sundalo sa kanilang barangay matapos silang mag-inuman. “Masaya (ang buhay namin
doon),” mapanuyang sinabi ni Norma. “Magsusugal sila, magiinom, pagti-tripan ka, pag-iinitan ‘pag bago sa paningin (ng mga sundalo).” Si Nelita Cabillana, asawa ng isa pang magsasaka, ay nagdusa rin sa kamay ng mga sundalo. Sabi niya, dis-oras ng gabi ay dumating ang mga sundalo sa kanilang bahay at inakusahang nagtatago sila ng armas. Ang kanyang asawa, si Artemio Mandado, ay binugbog gamit ang mga baril sa kanilang tahanan ngunit wala namang nahanap ang mga sundalo. Sa isang pakikipanayam ng Inquirer noong Mayo, ipinahayag ng tagapagsalita ng Armed Forces of the Philippines na si Col. Arnulfo Marceol Burgos na walang katotohanan ang mga paratang ng mga nagpo-protesta. “Karapatan nilang mag-rally pero baseless naman yung issues nila,” wika ni Burgos. Ang naganap na protesta sa
ika-40 taon ng Batas Militar ay pang-ilang beses ng pagtangka ng mga Bakwet upang maiparating sa administrasyong Aquino ang kanilang mga hinaing. Sa isang panayam noong Agosto, ang tagapagsalita ng pangulo na si Edwin Lacierda ay ipinaghayag na may patakaran ang administrasyon laban sa paglabag sa karapatang pantao, at kasama na rito ang sapilitang pagkawala. Halos isang dekada na mula nang paslangin ang asawa ni Ka Orly Marcellana na si Eden. Si Eden ay isang aktibista na madalas ay pinamumunuan ang paghahanap ng ebidensya para sa mga naging biktima ng karahasan ng militar noong dekada nobenta. Ang pinaghihinalaang utak ng kanyang pagdukot at pagpatay ay si Col. Jovito Palaparan. “Walang pagbabago,” sigaw pa rin nila hanggang ngayon at kinukumpara ang panahon noong ipinatupad ni Marcos ang Batas Militar sa kasalukuyang panahon.
12
TH THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
LITERARY LI
June - August 2012
Isang Debate Ni Daisy Cayanan
Incomprehensible by Jeff Bernard Dimaano Chances, chances, chances, Having it all at once, perfection and all A dark cloud, looming, camouflaged in rainbow Scattered pieces, shattered fixtures
LalakiAko na lamang ang laging may kasalanan. Hindi naman porket iniwan ka ng isa, Lahat kami ay pare-pareho na. Ginawa ng Diyos tayong magkakaiba, O binibini bakit ka nagkukumpara? Kasalanan pa din ba namin Kung kami ay mainis sa tagal mong manalamin? Maituturing bang pagkakakasala, Ang minsang pagliwaliw kasama ang barkada?
Misses, misses, misses, We had it all, f*ck them all All I wanted was to have this chance, this dance Remember those words, remember it all Embrace, embrace, embrace, The current, the present, the now I had it in my questions, you had it in your nulls And voids, static, in limbo
BabaeBakit ganoon ang mga kalalakihan? Kapag sinisi mo’y ikaw pa ang kagagalitan?
LalakiNgunit sino ang sa iyo’y nagsabi niyan? Ang pangangaliwa saan mo man tignan ay isang kamalian. Sino ba namang gustong may kahati sa pagmamahalan? Wala binibini, Iniiisip mo lang iyan. Ang problema sa inyong mga babae, Nasosobrahan kayo ng kakanood ng mga teleserye, Kuhang kuha niyo ang mga madamdaming dayalogo, Tuloy sa amin ay napopoot kayo.
The Adam in Every Eve by Heidelynne Hazelle Joie M.Convento Eons ago they were banished from Eden. Adam blamed Eve of the apple she’d eaten. The heavens had cursed her womb, punished with pain; From the miracle of life, death she may gain. Time had passed and tables were turned over, The once accursed maiden now gives the orders. For when Adam is gone, Eve stands as the father Of their children and the household all over. She protects them from harm and stands firm on ground. Her heart is her tool in which strength could be found. She is not only the Queen of the kitchen, She’s also the knight of all the things broken. She can now do what only Adam does then. She is now free of the society’s system. No longer an Inferior in her country, She helps it prosper with her strength and beauty. The accursed maiden, blessed with the gift of life Once a weak morning dew now a star so bright For when destiny calls and she is needed The Adam in the heart of Eve shall be awakened…
C
The theme for next issue is “MONSTERS”. They are under your bed and inside your closet. Tell us how bravely you fight your own monsters. Send your contributions to lpu.independentsentinel@ gmail.com
BabaeAng usapang ito’y walang patutunguhan. LalakiAng usapang ito’y walang katapusan.
n
Ill
us
tr
at
io
n
by
M
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BabaeTignan mo na lamang ang aking halimbawa, Sa ating mundong hindi pantay ang pag-unawa. Kung ikaw ay mabababae, kalauna’y mapapatawad kita. Kung ako ba ang mangaliwa ay mapapatawad mo pa? Ang sagot ay hindi, pagkat pangit sa paningin ng lipunan. Ang babaeng dalawa ang minamahal hindi pwedeng pagbigyan. Samantalang kayong mga kalalakihan, Dalawa o higit pa, tanggap pa rin ng lipunan.
.B al ia d
Reasons, reasons, reasons, Does it really have to make sense? Have I Ventured into my own hopeless, senseless Parallax, irony, glitches
LalakiBakit ganun ang kababaihan, Kapag pinuna mo’y, walang pansinan?
ev er
BabaeHindi na ako muling iibig pa. Ang puso ko’y lubhang nasugatan niya. Ang mga lalaking animo’y walang pinagkaiba. Susuyuin, paiibigin, sa huli ay paluluhain ka. Kailan nga ba ako makakatagpo Ng lalaking iba sa kanyang mga kabaro? Yaong hindi lang sarili ang nasa isip; Yaong hind lang isang panaginip?
BOOK HAVEN Fifty Shades of Grey by E . L . James
T
he first book of the Fifty Shades Trilogy by E. L. James is probably the most controversial book of the year. The story revolves around the dominant-submissive relationship of Anastasia Steele and Christian Grey who had a dark past. The unusually erotic element of this book incites other people’s curiosity but also gives birth to some literary criticisms. Read it and see for yourself!
The Fault in our Stars by John Green
J
ohn Green’s The Fault in our Stars is the complete package with equal parts of humor, nostalgia, sophistication and wisdom. Green understands how to knock ones’ emotions combining educated humor and quirkiness. One will surely relate to Hazel’s and Augustus’ fascination of The Imperial Affliction and their search for answers to life questions. TFIOS celebrates the importance of life, being in love, friendship and living your life to the fullest. Full of funny sketches, intellectual reflections and positive anecdotes, even the most cold and unsympathetic reader will be caught in so much emotion.
13
THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
June - August 2012
GREEN PAGE
The Mining EO:
A Bag of Air or a Box of Chocolates?
By Geinah Mae C. Constantino
Recently, President Benigno Simeon Aquino III passed the EO 79, otherwise known as the “Mining EO”. It lays down mining sector reforms, including guidelines on environmental protection and responsible mining. “Institutionalizing and Implementing Reforms in the Philippine Mining Sector, Providing Policies and Guidelines to Ensure Environmental Protection and Responsible Mining in the Utilization of Mineral Resources”; that’s the title of the EO, promising, is it not? Let’s get down to the specifics, the Philippines is believed to have some of the biggest mineral reserves in the world -- the government estimates that the country has at least $840 billion in gold, copper, nickel, chromite, manganese, silver and iron ore deposits. Moreover, it states that no new mining permits would be approved until parliament passed a law giving the state a greater share. In an article written for Rappler.com, Atty. Ayala De Leon said that “We particularly laud the directive to the DENR to desist from processing mining applications in Palawan and enhance the
strict implementation and periodic review of the Strategic Environmental Plan for Palawan with the Palawan Council for Sustainable Development.” The intention is just, fair and attainable; to ensure environmental protection and to ensure responsible mining, even in the use of mineral resources. Having said that, the EO states that mining should not be undertaken where it should not be undertaken. For instance, near cemeteries, archaeological s i t e s , waterways, reservoirs, old growth forests, protected areas, and prime agricultural lands. But when it comes to implementation, I would like to specify certain loopholes to the Mining EO though I admire the president’s intention a n d
actions. Section 4 says; No new mineral agreements shall be entered into until a legislation rationalizing existing revenue sharing schemes and mechanisms shall have taken effect”. According to Fr. Joel Tabora, SJ; rationalizing is indefinite in nature and in meaning. What is reasonable to the mining investor may be totally unreasonable to t h e
The Mathematics Behind Ordinary School Supplies by Justine Mae M. Manaloto Mul-tree-ply Admit it – there was never a week that you did not waste some paper. Be it a torn notebook page full of doodles or a crumpled yellow paper of an essay draft, it sure is: wastage. Have you not imagined all the paper you wasted within a year or a month’s time? It is a lot! Unfortunately, seldom do people realize that wasting paper costs trees, the primary source of paper. According to the Daily Green, an environmental website, “42% of the industrial wood harvest is used to make paper”. It means that a significant number of trees are cut down just to meet our demand for paper. More importantly, it means you should think twice before throwing another piece of paper in the trash bin. You should also think twice before buying a paper product made with virgin wood. Fortunately, paper products made from recycled material are readily available in the market. After all, as the Daily Green puts it, “[p]aper made with 100% recycled content uses 44% less energy, produces 38% less greenhouse gases emissions, 41% less particulate emissions, 50% less wastewater, 49% less solid waste, and 100% less wood” . Subtract – a – Pen Admit it, too – there was never a year where you bought just one pen. Practically, you keep many pens in a year for two reasons: either your pen ran out of ink or you lost it. Pens are a usual victim of people’s clumsiness. And because most pens are cheap, people do not really mind when they lose one. What they miss is that pens are made from non-biodegradable plastic. Consequently, piles
of disposed pens also make piles of plastic waste! According to A Green Living, another environmental website, Americans alone account for 106 billion pens per year. And it is just the United States, not the world pen consumption. Therefore, it is important to do something that could, at least, reduce such waste. Instead of buying a disposable pen, why not try a refillable one? Refills are practically cheaper than a pen and they use less plastic, too. Pictograph-ite Pencils may be a thing of the past for most college students. But no – just imagine your humanities class or your multiple-choice, shaded exams without them. Wondering how many pencils are produced every year? A whopping 15-20 billion – which require 60, 000 60-feet trees as reported by Pristine Planet, an environmental website. What could be done then? If you want to reduce the number of trees cut down yearly for pencils, try using eco-friendly pencils. Luckily, pencils from recycled materials can now be purchased from school supply stores. *** So the next time you buy a pen, paper, or pencil, remember how mathematics and the environment relate with each of these school supplies. After all, every “school buddy” that we need comes from Mother Nature.
community affected by mining; what is reasonable to a government primarily interested in a growth economy is unreasonable to a government interested the preservation of indigenous cultures. For instance, the constitution says that minerals are owned by the state; that might cause a conflict of interest among a Filipino development planner and a profitmaximizing investor. A n o t h e r concern is the inconsistency of local ordinances
with National laws and the constitution. The legislature must erase any contradictions and conflict among the two to avoid confusion, thus, “harmonizing” the National Government and the Local Government Units. Now let’s weigh the pros and cons. When the president was asked about the maximum benefit of mining, here’s what he said; “One of the things we had to vet was exactly what does [the mining industry contribute]. You know, when the mining industry says ‘we contribute x amount to the economy,’ I have to check, exactly what did they contribute. From our figures -- about a 140 billion -- we get around less than 10% in terms of the duties. [But] we get 100% of the problem and 10% of the revenues accruing from it. And of course it’s extractive, once it’s gone, it’s gone.” It comes down to this. Profit gathering or conservation of resources? In mining, once the minerals are gone, that’s it. The Mining EO is not perfect but it’s good. The challenge now, as always whenever our country enacts progressive legislation and policies, is implementation. S o u r c e s : http://www.rappler.com/business/ s p e c i a l - re p o r t / w h y m i n i n g / whymining-latest-stories
Things You Don’t Know but You Should, or Not Did you know that Tarsiers have tendencies to commit suicide? Carlitosyrichta or simply Tarsiers are naturally shy and nervous. Camera flashes, being touched and being in enclosed places stresses them, which causes them to hit their heads against objects that eventually kills them due to their thin skull. Did you know that fifty-five of the seventy threatened bird species in the world are found only in our country? According to Haribon, we rank first in the world on the number of endangered endemic species of mammals and birds on an acre-for-acre basis. Did you know that Taal Lake is the only habitat of sardinellatawilis? Sardinellatawilis or just plain Tawilis is the world’s ONLY freshwater sardine. Did you know that being in a green setting or even glancing at the color green can make a person more creative? …So make it a point to read the greenest page of the Sentinel! And let’s all create a green environment! Watch out for more trivia on our next issue! MIND BLOWN. Sources: http://tenkay.hubpages.com/hub/Tarsiers-the-SuicidalPrimates Ten Things Mother Earth Wants You to know about the Philippines (http://collapsingbarrycade.wordpress.com)
Illustrations by Michael Angelo A. Pedriña
14
THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
ANONG KABA?
KOMIKO SATIRIKO
June - August 2012
THE-ICE from page 1
ni Karina Shannen V. Biaga
follow the certain standards, we can do it,” Zozobrado said. “Sa tingin ko magiging edge ng LPU ang THE-ICE accreditation dahil mas maeestablish na number one ang school natin when it comes to tourism and culinary arts programs,” Kristoffer Camacho, a 2nd year Cruise Line Operations, Culinary Arts (CLOCA) student said. But he also said that while this accreditation can attract possible students, the problem would be the size of the university building. Camacho suggested that LPU can plan to provide a separate building for the CITHM students to avoid overpopulation in the
WEATHER -WEATHER
by Rowell Nazher J. Aballa
main building. Zozobrado added that this accreditation will increase the marketing value of LPU to potential students. As of now, LPU has the highest number of CITHM enrollees in the Philippines with almost 9,000 students from LPU Manila alone. Zozobrado also said that they announced the accreditation to the CITHM students so they’ll feel good about studying in LPU. He mentioned that they are just waiting for the official documents so they can post ads on broadsheets. (with reports from Mark Kenneth P. Cabusay)
LYCESGO
HULI KA!
ni Michael Angelo A. Pedriña
Being Catholic control desire or even one’s self from committing sin? How can an institution eradicate human nature if all of us are part sin? Surely there is nobody who is as righteous as they claim to be. Open-mindedly, I’ve imagined myself in a society where a reproductive health law is passed. Since couples will have access and a choice on their preferred family planning method, they are better equipped to start a family, no
Adobo
from page 5
unwanted pregnancies, and each child is properly cared for and adequately given their basic needs. The youth would become more aware of whatever intimacy they go into. The Church may be against them doing so, but regardless of having this bill or not, they will continue to do the deed once they felt that urge. It is then better, that they are more informed so that they would
know the consequences of doing such deed. The Congress has renamed it to “Responsible Parenthood” bill, the new title summarizes better its actual intention. Looking at it from that perspective is that not dignified? Who would not want to be a responsible parent? Now I’m not saying that this is the only way to be a responsible parent, but it is a mean that can help them to be one.
from page 3
“When you pass through the hole of this needle, it is something like a prestige by itself because it is no ordinary competition.”, said Mr. Dan Villa, the acting coach of de Jesus. “Imagine your creative piece being judged by these people. It’s like passing through fire. Once you pass by this, being a finalist is considered a victory. But yes, of all schools, we were the only one chosen.” Adobo Design Awards was
participated by students from Luzon, including representatives from big universities like University of Sto. Tomas (UST), Ateneo De Manila University (ADMU) and De La Salle University – College of St. Benilde (DLSU-CSB). “You know, the secret is the discipline that we have, growing in the right height of which we should excel and teaching measures of the real path of the winning ingredients; finding the
big idea or what we call the Wapak! factor,” said Mr. Villa. “Added this kind of training,’yung hindi pwede ang pwede na. It should be above ordinary advertisements, it goes beyond borders and it has an impact. We do ads with excellence.” Event partners included My Phone, Bratpack, Manila Beer, Business Mirror, Manila Bulletin, Philippine Star, Ayala Museum and Orange Segment.
from College of Engineering (COE) Aaron Jansen Lingad affirmed the need for the facilities to be fixed or updated. As for his college, they are expecting future accreditations so he looks forward to the re-building of the Engineering Building. On Balancing Their Time LYCESGO Public Relations Officer from College of Computer Studies (CCS) Rey Christopher Ambida said that it is important to maintain communication among his fellow CCS council officers to balance his time. They also plan in advance so his LYCESGO work wouldn’t affect his duty as council president. “Time management lang talaga.” LYCESGO Secretary from College of Business Administration (CBA) Rioliza Camantigue assigns her other officers to be heads of different projects in their college so the work will be equally distributed. The same goes for LYCESGO Auditor from College of Nursing (CON) Ryan Daza who formed committees from his college to make tasks easier. Addressing the “Apathetic” Student Body “Yan ang magiging challenging part para sa LYCESGO,” De Los Santos exclaimed. They said that they
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try to understand the situations of other students who also have other priorities outside the university. What they try to do is to make their projects interesting so the students can have fun and be informed at the same time. De Los Santos also said that this year, they aim for the student body to be both proactive and active as they have projects involving our neighbor universities which would expose Lyceans outside our university’s premises. The Students’ Say Michelle Lim, a 4th year Broadcasting student, thinks that LYCESGO should be there to speak for the students. “They should do their part. Make things easier for us. Like for example, pag hindi nagsususpend kahit malakas na yung ulan, baka pwede namang iparating sa admin na payagan mag-casual na lang ang mga students.” She also hopes that they do projects that can help students with their courses. Finally, Lim also posed a question regarding the openness of LYCESGO for any queries or suggestions from the students. “Are you open to suggestions that are against, but can improve, LYCESGO?” (with reports from Cleo Angeline B. Cachapero and Kenno S. Nishioka)
Calling for interested participants in the upcoming
Imaginaccion XV Literary Writing Workshops Details will be posted in The Sentinel Facebook page For inquiries, look for Heidelynne Convento at The Sentinel Office, Room 123-A or email us at lpu.independentsentinel@gmail.com
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June - August 2012
THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
SPORTS
15
In Shipwreck, We Shall Rise! The 88th Season of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) wasn’t a smooth sail for Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) Junior Pirates, for they ended the first round of the elimination with a 0-9 win-loss card, a -881 point difference in baskets made and a probationary warning of the university’s participation in the league. For the Pirates to continue their voyage in the NCAA seas, the Cavite-based Junior Pirates need to improve its cannons as they shot fewer than 30% in the first round, making only 94 out of the attempted 334 field goals. Not only do they need to gather firepower, but they should also strengthen their defence and stop the other teams score more than 100 points over them. The worst razing the LPU
Junior Pirates suffered was the 171-14 San Beda Red Cubs annihilation during the first round of the NCAA Men’s Basketball Juniors Division. The beating started early when the Junior Pirates can’t answer the horde of
the cubs in the first chapter that ended 43-0 for San Beda. LPU started to hit its only basket in the first half in the second quarter but the Red Cubs had added 49 points and the half ended 92-2 then San Beda continued the charged until
by John Francis Aris P. Endriga
Olympics and the Olympic debut of Rachelle Cabral in women’s division. Field Hopefuls In athletics, the Philippines had been represented by Marestella Torres and Rene Herrera, the only competitors from Southeast Asia in their events. Dubbed as Asia’s long jump queen for her personal best jump of 6.71 meters during the 2011 Southeast Asian Games, Torres leaped for the world crown at Olympics. Herrera, having won the gold at the previous five Southeast Asian Games, has decided to run in the 5000-meter event in the Olympics. Kings of the Ring Boxing has traditionally been the country’s strongest sport in the Olympics. Five of the nine medals won by the Philippines in Olympic history came from boxing, including its only two silver medals. Mark Anthony Barriga, the Panabo, Davao del Norte native went into the ring in London hoping to be added to famed amateur boxers Roel and Mansueto “Onyok” Velasco—the Velasco brothers who won bronze and silver medals respectively in two different Olympics. Shot A Wild Card In shooting, marksman Paul Brian Rosario carried the flag
the end of the match devouring the Junior Pirates 171-14. One probable cause of the “shipwreck” is the height disadvantage the Junior Pirates have against the giants of the other teams. I am not saying
height ensures victory in basketball, but it surely affects a player. It is one of many natural reactions of beings to be awed by something bigger than them. And it won’t be any different inside the court, when you drive to the
basket and get swarmed by other players who are a foot taller than you, it will have an effect, but it is the player’s will to take it as a downfall or a challenge. A 5-foot-8-inches Lewis Alfred “L.A.” Tenorio of the Smart Gilas II decided to take on the latter. Tenorio stood tall among the land of the giants at the 34thWilliam Jones Cup, scoring 20 points, and lead Gilas II to beat the team USA (whose players stood at least 4 inches higher than Tenorio) in a 76-75 clincher to end the tourney with
a 7-1 record and bring the crown back here for the first time in 12 years. The Junior Pirates should take the disadvantage as challenge like L.A. and give the Lyceans an intoxicating hard court show. If they will take the disadvantage more of a challenge than a drawback and raise the sail back on top and cruise over the wave that once sank its mast, they won’t just win games, but they will also be able to continue raising their flags in NCAA Because in shipwreck, the pirates shall rise.
and competed in the men’s skeet event. He was selected by the International Shooting Sport Federation as the wild card entry to represent the country following a string of impressive performances in international shooting tournaments in the previous four years. Young and Free In the swimming events,
Philippines was represented by two swimmers— 18-year old Jessie Lacuna in the men’s 200-meter freestyle event, and 19-year old Jasmine Alkhaldi in the women’s 100-meter freestyle event. Proud Filipinos Filipino-American cycler Daniel Caluag, rode for the Philippines in London
after reigning in the United States BMX scene in 4 years. While FilipinoJapanese judoka Tomohiko Hoshina was the sole representative of the Philippines in Judo. Note: The Philppine Olympic team failed to secure medals on their respective events
“The Junior Pirates should take the disadvantage as challenge...to continue raising their flags in NCAA Because in shipwreck, the pirates shall rise.”
Philippine Olympiads: Small Team, Big Dreams
The Philippine delegate for this year’s Olympics is said to be the smallest Philippine delegation since 1936. Eleven athletes under our flag went for the awaited golden medal in eight sporting events. Better Prepared The Philippines was represented in weightlifting by 21-year old and proud Lycean Hidilyn Diaz, who competed in the women’s 58-kg event. She is the first Filipino weightlifter to represent the country in two consecutive Olympics. She previously competed in the same event in the 2008 Beijing Olympics. She holds the Philippine record in 58-kg category having lifted 192 kilograms in 2008. Diaz was the flag bearer of the Philippine delegation during the parade of nations at the recent Olympic opening ceremony. Hitting Bull’s-eye Archers Mark Javier and Rachelle Anne Cabral shot for the gold at the archery events. As part of their final preparations in the build-up to the Olympics, the two archers underwent 10 days of training in South Korea. Mark Javier competed in the men’s individual event in his second Olympic Games, having previously joined in the same event at the 2008 Beijing
Celebramos 88! At NCAA: Viva Viva Pirata!
by Johven R. Cate
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) ventured from being brazen into historical as they open the 88th season of the country’s oldest collegiate league. True to its theme “Celebramos 88! Conquistar Por Tu Honor Nuevas Glorias” (Celebrate 88! Conquer New Glories for Your Honor), NCAA unwrapped the season with a bang at the SmartAraneta Coliseum last June 23. Season 87 rookie Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU), which grabbed a tie at 5th place with Mapua Institute of Technology, charges to this new season lead by pirate muse Ms. Brittany Starling who seized 2nd
place at the Ms. NCAA 87. Hosted by Colegio De San Juan De Letran (CSJL), season 88 opened full of vibrancies as it reminisced the past and looked forward to the present. CSJL dance troupe began the season inside the big dome filling it with gasps as they amuse the crowd with passionate cultural dance showing development of Filipino Community. Fr. Tamerlane Lana, O.P., President of CSJL, emphasized in his welcome remarks that “Celebrating means the memory of the past, affirmation of the present and a promise of future.” Presentation of the ten competing colleges and universities with their unique and uplifting cheers followed
right after the cultural dance presentation. The LPU Pirate Pep Squad assailed with their marvelous chant “Viva Viva Pirata!” Teams vying for the basketball event were presented after the dance numbers. The shooting guard of the Valiant CSJL Knights, Kevin Alas, gave the oath of sportsmanship. The first game of the season followed. The clash between the fierce and brazened CSJL knights tried to streak a first point from their rival, the striking San Sebastian Golden Stags. This year, NCAA changed its media partner. From ABS-CBN Sports, AKTV on IBC13 will be the one covering the games and other events of the league.
THE LPU INDEPENDENT SENTINEL
SPORTS
June - August 2012
Pirates set sail in pep rally
LPU held-off a 6-point onslaught by the Emillio Aguinaldo College late in the 4th quarter as the Pirates survived an 83-81 nail-biter against the Generals in the NCAA season 88 at the FilOil Flying V Arena at San Juan last July 7. Mark Francisco buried the game winning charities with 3.2 seconds left in the game to seal the Pirates’ first victory in four games. Shane Ko doused the Generals’ late game rally in the last three minutes with a trey to keep the Pirates ahead 81-78, before France Chiong of the Generals answered with a triple to forge another deadlock at 81 with 1:40 ticks left. An ecstatic Coach Bonnie Tan said “Ito na ‘yong pinaka-best naming game. Pressured na din kami dahil as a rookie team, ‘di pa kami tested sa mga ganitong situations. There’s no other way for us than to fight the pressure thrown at us.” Lyceum (83) — Guevarra 22, Cayabyab 19, Ko 10, Zamora 8, Laude 8, Edding 4, Azores 4, Mendoza 2, Garcia 2, Ambohot 2, Francisco 2, Martinez 0, Mallari 0. EAC (81) — Happi 26, Jamon 14, Yaya 11, Tayongtong 10, Munsayac 7, Chiong 5, Paguia 4, King 4, Monteclaro 0, Morada 0, Sanchez 0. Quarters: 20-17, 47-45, 66-65, 83-81. *** In a likewise thrilling game, LPU nipped the Mapua Institute of Technology 78-74 in the NCAA season 88 at the San Juan Arena last July 13. The Pirates stood strong again in the last minutes of the game as Shane Ko, who led the Pirates’ sail with 23 points and 6 boards, hit a jumper at the 2:29 mark of the 4th quarter and put the game on its 13thdeadlock 71-71. Pirate Captain Chris Cayabyab scored a jumper to give LPU a 2-point edge 73-71 but Cardinal Andrew Estrella split his charities off the next play to keep Mapua within one point 73-72. Laude of the Pirates sank two free throws that gave the Pirates a three-point headway 75-72 until Mike Parala of MIT buried two free throws of his own and kept the Cardinals within striking distance 75-74. Cayabyab fished a foul off Josan Nimes of the Cardinals in the 17.5 mark in the fourth quarter and connected both free throws and put the lead back to three 77-74. Cayabyab produced a defensive gem when he blocked a possible game-tying triple from Kenneth Ighalo of Mapua. Cayabyab goes 1 out of 2 in the line after a foul with 5.7 ticks left but still ensured Pirate victory over Cardinal 78- 74. LPU 78 – Ko 23, Guevarra 14, Cayabyab 12, Zamora 7, Azores 6, Francisco 5, Laude 5, Ambohot 3, Edding 3, Garcia 0, Mallari 0, Martinez 0. MIT 74 – Parala 27, Chien 11, Nimes 10, Ighalo 9, Estrella 7, Banal 4, Stevens 4, Abad 2, Cantos 0. Quarter Scores: 17-16; 34-34; 56-56; 78-74
Photo by Isaiah R. Cua JPL Salute. The LPU Pirates Pep Squad leads the crowd in singing the LPU Hymn after teaching the new NCAA chant to the LPU community.
by Anna Patricia N. Peralta “Viva, Viva Pirata!” Roaring Lyceans in red filled the quadrangle to support Pirate teams sailing for the 88th National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) season as LPU held its pep rally last June 20. LPU Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), Dr. Conrado Inigo Jr., proudly announced that the NCAA policy board confirmed LPU’s status from guest team to probationary member. “It’s really an accomplishment because with the help of all stakeholders of LPU, we were able to make it as part of the NCAA league,” Dr. Inigo said. He believes LPU will be able to perform better because of the athletes’ experience in the previous season in addition to
the community’s moral support not only in the Manila campus, but also from Cavite, Batangas and Laguna campuses. Mandy Lunag, the captain of the LPU football team, believes that the team will perform better this year with high hopes of making it in the Top 4. Last season, Lunag said that there were only 12 members in the team and were not yet at their prime. This season, they finally have 22 members and have been training rigorously – focusing on basic endurance and going over tactic cards for their upcoming games in January. Pep Squad Captain Geraldine Sebastian says that they also aim to step up their routine difficulty, especially with the human pyramid stunt. She believes that with the pep squad’s experience in the NCAA
last year, they have improved their bond as a team. One of the problems the squad encountered the previous year was the conflicts in the coach’s and the members’ schedule. Patrick Asuncion, former assistant coach, replaced Brent Andrew Viray as official pep squad coach last August. Meanwhile, Emiliano Lontoc, coach of Lady Pirates volleyball team, said they always intend to bag the championship title in any league they participate in. Fortunately this year, they were equipped with equipments necessary for training. Coach Lontoc mentioned that not only will they focus on strengthening and conditioning, but also on mental stamina of the players. (with reports from Kenno S. Nishioka)
LPU Lycans: Lycean Martial Arts by Janine Chloe C. Bautista
Ever heard of Brock Lesnar or Georges St. Pierre? They are some of the superstars of the octagon ring who win title over title in a sport called Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). Make way for the most actionpacked sports organization of the university. Mixed Martial Arts club or known as the LPU Lycans is the first and only martial arts club to be recognized by the university. The club’s concept began early 2010 when founder Chito Biboso started teaching the sport to a few Lyceans. He formed a small group of six and taught them the discipline. His passion to share the sport lead him to another discovery, that his founding members have potentials to join competitions and bring athletic recognitions to the university. Grappling for approval “Mahirap talaga sa umpisa eh,” Biboso recalls the moments when the team was just starting. There
Photo Courtesy of LPU Lycans were a lot of questions regarding the safety of those who will sign up as members. Biboso also struggled on the equipment and sources that his members can use. Last June 2010, LPU Lycans had their membership drive and have set a good deal for their organization’s kick-off. More than just fist fight Biboso wanted to instill the
discipline of MMA to his members. Concentrated on developing not only the power grapples and submissions, LPU Lycans aim a different target when it comes to MMA. Biboso wanted to build up his members not only physically but also by boosting their self-confidence. Disciplines like Jujitsu, Muay
Thai and the likes are part of their program. Only a man’s game? Based on the perception of many and the nature of the sport, MMA is not for damsels. It discloses intense physical action and sometimes lifethreatening duels among its players. But for those ladies willing to learn or just plain thrill seekers,
the league is open for membership. Biboso says he also teaches Aikido for the girls. Growling anew To date, the MMA club has 70 members, including 25 trainees who prepare in representing the university during outside matches. One of their main targets for this year is to bare its fangs as LPU representatives in the Universal Reality Combat Championship (URCC). They also have their Project Sinagtala which involves emergency fund for calamities. Biboso also wanted to continue giving free training to his members and in the long run encourage his members to pay-it-forward and also teach at no cost. “Hindi ito larong mga malalakas na tao, laro ito ng taong malalakas ang loob,” Biboso claimed when he differentiated the MMA to other types of sport. Who knows? Maybe a LPU Lycan will soon rule the octagon like Lesnar or St. Pierre.