The Mayon | Special Issue (Quarantine) by The Mayon

THEMAYON Official School Publication of Bicol University College of Education Integrated Laboratory High School Vol. LXXVI, Issue No. 1 Special Quarantine Issue JULY 2020 Legazpi City, Albay, Region V

INSIDE

UP COVID PORTAL

ENDCOV.PH

Quaran-thingz FEATS

Grimreaper OPINION

COVER ART MARIA JULIAH MONASTERIO

#NoFilter LATHALAIN

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The Mayon

NEWS

BUeños air internet, learning issues as online classes ramp up JULIANNE MARIE DEL RIO, JAMES CHRISTIAN CHUA

With only days before online learning starts this August in Bicol University College of Education Integrated Laboratory High School (BUCEILS-HS), students aired the possible conflicts they may encounter in this new learning platform. Through an online survey conducted by The Mayon last June 2020, students aired their sentiments on issues of effectivity of online classes in their learning process. A respondent addressed that one of the "biggest hindrances" of conducting online classes is weak internet connection or the lack thereof. He added that even he is refrained from accessing the internet freely because of poor connectivity. Of the 196 respondents of the survey who are students of BUCEILS-HS from grades 7 to 11 (SY 2019-2020), around half (or 90) ranked their internet speed with a score of 3 out of 5. Seventytwo more ranked their internet speed 1 or 2 out of 5, being the weakest. Only 31 ranked their connection 'fast' (4 or 5 out of 5).

YEAR ROUNDER BICOL UNIVERSITY ENTERS 50TH GOLDEN, 'FESTIVE' YEAR HS BUILDING RENAMED TO CARLOS R. IMPERIAL BUILDING GPTA-PROJECT COVERED WALKWAY TO CANTEEN BUILT "BUCEILS-HS" STANDEES DONATED BY BATCH 1969 PANDEMIC CANCELS REST OF SY 2019-2020 NEW CURRICULUM CONTINUING SHS PROGRAM PUSHED THROUGH

GRAPHICS

Also, only 13 out of the 196 students have access to a nearby internet cafe, if ever their internet connection would hinder them. "The efficiency of learning is still highly dependent on convenience. How can a student learn properly if they keep getting disconnected, or if they have to worry about where to get load money?" according to one respondent. Dr. Agnes Reonal, a teacher in BUCEILS-HS, shared through a statement that there will be no face-to-face classes yet, thus blended learning will be implemented. The faculty aims to use applications like Zoom and Google Meet for synchronous meetings. She also added that there will also be asynchronous learning, or learning that do not occur in the same place or at the same time. The issue on monetary value for internet connections, particularly for cellular data ones, is raised by one student. For them, "students can access the internet through cellular data (LTE) but it’s monetary value might be too high

Sidebar 1

for some and the fact that the phone must be loaded daily will be hard to be kept for some to especially people’s economic state is degrading." Around 30% of the respondents primarily depend on cellular data to connect to the internet. As measure in avoiding face-toface classes while not being wholly dependent on online learning, the students, through the survey, hope for the distribution of learning modules that can be picked up from drop-off places in the university premises. For other respondents, the problem of online learning is on the efficiency of learning. A respondent cited how will subjects requiring practical applications be taught. "Hindi rin madali matuto sa ganitong sistema," he added. Learning will also be exclusive, according to one student. "Most of us are auditory and visual learners. ergo, the information we’re supposed to study and take in wouldn’t be explained to us thoroughly, especially the profound topics."

Teachers gear up for digital learning MIGUEL ALFONSO AÑONUEVO, DANIELA LOURDES AVENGOZA

Instructors from Bicol University underwent a series of webinars this month, July 2020, in preparation for online learning. The "8-day University Capability Building on Flexible Learning" was held to gear up the teachers for the new normal of teaching. Select resource speakers shared their expertise on flexible learning such as designing learning modules, exploring instructional media, developing assessment tools and rubrics, and using learning management system for flexible learning.

YUAN PLACIDES

Ms. Janine Faye Tagarda, a SHS instructor on Physics, shared that not all teachers have sufficient resources for them to develop the instructional materials needed by the students. Also, she pressed the need to provide programs for the mental health and the holistic well-being of the students and teachers in coping with the new setup of learning. "I hope at least magkaroon din ng orientation ang parents because they will also play a big role here" she added in an interview.

INTERNET CONNECTIVITY OF BUCEILS-HS STUDENTS [1] Ranking Internet Speed 1 (Very Slow) - 14 2 (Slow) - 58 3 (Average) - 90 4 (Fast) - 25 5 (Very Fast) - 9

[2] Access to Internet Cafe

87%

13%

have no access (170)

have access (26)

[2] Concerns Raised

CONSIDER Use of Learning Modules Compassion in Deadlines Reducing Tasks/Avoiding Overload Reducing Synchronous Class Time Absence due to Faulty Internet Protecting Mental Health

*Respondents of the online survey are 196 students of BUCEILS-HS (Grades 711 last SY 2019-2020), which comprise 64% of the student population.

STATUS QUOTES

I want them to know I dissent for the same reason students fought for the mass promotion. No student should be left behind. Even the constitution promulgates that despite majority rule, minorities must always be protected. We don't need to resume. The rest of the world has put education on hold because there are much more pressing matters that need our attention. BUCEILS Student Respondent

#NoStudentLeftBehind

PHOTO COURTESY

NEWS

BUCS IT DEPT [WORDPRESS]

ACADEMIC AWARDEES*

Much to the students' dismay of not having their recognition/graduation program because of the pandemic, the Mayon would like to commend all BUCEILS-HS students who have excelled in all aspects of learning through this list of awardees encompassing all year levels:

SY 2019-2020 GRADE 7 NEPTUNE With Honors: Vista, Anne Kateleen; Bailon, Anja Faustine; Miraflor, Raj Ramoel; Dela Peña, Maria Faye; Armario, Shamila Jem; Maso, Ian Gabriel; Godisan, Genelle Arabella; Bracamonte, Julian Clyde; Moran, Angela Ruth; Camilo, Kezler; Concepcion, Aira Faith; Vizcarra, Marcella; Jaucian, Er Hector; Lupo, Jesse Romulo; Ardales, Christine Micah; Yanzon, Louie Mikel; Basilla, Pholile Audrey; Esquilo, Leiryah Miel GRADE 7 VENUS With Honors: Landagan, Juliana Isabella; Ginez, Phoebe Glenn; Quinto, Nicole; Rito, Frencheska Simone; Aquitania, Richard Alan; Araña, Christian Dominic; Frilles, Cassandra Salvacion; Jebulan, Jhulian Earl; Milay, Jace Eldon; Arteta, Zartiz Vien; Duazo, Yola Estela; Basilla, Jerven Clauie; Lim, Khairyl Alexxa; Pinat, Yara Kamilah; Habalo, James Andrew; Nasayao, Lorenz James; Versosa, Joshua Gian

cont. Gr.10 Galileo, With Honors Monte, Jerome Christian; Loremia, Maria Fe Míguela; Boncodin, Ma. Janella; Baloloy, Jamille; Bello, Joshua; Habalo, Kristine; Loria, Francine May

GRADE 9 BISMUTH

With

High

MelJury Faye

Honors:

Lucido,

With Honors: Mañago, John

Russel; Mendoza, Shelly Trixie; Concepcion, Angela Faye; Tiongson, Chynna Marie; Duclayan, Ces Liana; Loderte, Eljohn Paulo; Thomas, Kurt Gerard; Verdillo, Laurence Rio; Cadag, Christopher Andrei; Rebancos, Sean Jerve; Marollano, Ma. Shairine ; Marbella, Kim Cathlene; Moratillo, Hanna Darlene; De Leon, Rei Cleger; Galicia, Khrishmer; Arevalo, Jheline Idonah; Regalado, Francesca Gayle; Buere, Gracielle Mae; Beraquit, Geero Martin; Luzuriaga, Juke Philine GRADE 9 GOLD

GRADE 8 ACACIA

With High Honors: Del Castillo,

Freal Javen; Lofamia, Alyssa Sofia With Honors: Labalan, Geo Angelo; Rico, Leyzel Angela; Hallig, Jehu Cyd; Macasinag, Rachel; Belangel, Darlene Angel; Orozco, Anika Sher; Pante, Rica Hyacinth; Nuñez, Allea Mari; Jaucian, Erica; Llarena, Nicole Averyl; Ombao, Irish Shienel; Galicia, Lance Krystofer; Rediang, Raun Antonio Moses; Bahoy, Francine; Bulan, Kristin; Galias, James Nicholas Sky; Nemir, Camille Kim; Sevilla, Klaire Alexandrite; Dating, Christine Janelle; Avenido, Theo Lorenzo; Boncodin, Jan Junell GRADE 8 MOLAVE

With High Honors: Bartolata,

Freya Arianne With Honors: Mediavillo, Alyssa Gabrielle; Mazo, Ma. Trisha Angela; Salvatierra, Justin; Nuñez, John Paul; Araña, Rod Alison; Terrell, Karlo Mikel; Tena, Hanadi Wojtyla Therese; Llorando, Eunice Joyce; Murillo, Ameera Elisha; Pornelosa, Zion Alcheuz; Buena, Yna Dorothy; Llanera, Franz Ystephen

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cont. Gr. 8 Molave, With Honors Terrell, Karlo Mikel; Tena, Hanadi Wojtyla Therese; Llorando, Eunice Joyce; Murillo, Ameera Elisha; Pornelosa, Zion Alcheuz; Buena, Yna Dorothy; Llanera, Franz Ystephen

With High Honors: Llegado,

Aliyah Gabrielle With Honors: Rico, Angelo Jose; Latonero, Graciel; Mendioro, Jezreel Klenade; Chann, Ron Marrion; Marbella, Jacinthe Anne; San Esteban, Jhonalyn; Osea, Jewel Kristin; Espinas, Josef David; Gaveria, Gabrielle Marie; Albaytar, Fritzy Gail; Bobis, Gabrielle; Montas, Emanuelle Allyson; Magdaong, Zeth Gabriel; Despabiladeras, Juliana Kirsten; Ruiz, Dane Arkyn; Duka, Maurey Gem; Madara, Neil James; Burgos, Fiona Nicolette; Rojo, Joshua Emmanuel; Ludovice, Christine Joyce; Alcayde, Justin Vince; Margallo, Joshua Sherwin GRADE 10 GALILEO With High Honors: Rico, Ma. Rica; Chua, Clare Khrisha; Vista, Angela Nicole; Lucena, Diana Jane With Honors: Estuye, Juliana Ezekiel; Perez, Rodel Angelo; Madriñan, Yunise Ellaine; Ricario, Ymelee; Galang, Charls Von; Naje, Alexander John; Conda, Alaine Samuelle; Ruiz, Danica; Morga, Christian; Iglesia, James Bryan; Asuncion, Cyrene Mae; De Vera, Karl Arman;

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GRADE 10 EINSTEIN

High Honors: Diola, Mhariane Pamela; Cañaveral, Ella Mae; Prieto, Raine Sherlaine; Pinlac, Ronyl; Maceda, Meja Lian With Honors: Casiban, Maria Vanessa; Moya, Elca; Del Castillo, Jaeve Alfred; Depante, Fredrick John; Bandojo, Marnelle Anne; Lucido, Jury Mel II; Naz, Ronn Anthony; Arroco, Mariam Felice; Punzalan, Frances Racquel; Jacob, Klyde Edgar; Arjona, Trishia Mae; Ajero, Florence; De la Cruz, Shanen Rose; Conda, Anne Britney; Abitria, Charles Kenneth GRADE 11 HUMSS

With High Honors: Montales, Ella

Jovelle: Ramos, Alfred Nelson Mari: Alcayde, Jasmine Denise: Atizado, Yreine Antoinette; Rebadulla, Blake Maewin With Honors: Loria, Jerome; Avecilla, Yvonne Claire; Arispe, Allana Anne; Lustre, Coleen; Bonafe, Dave Patrick; Banaynal, Lycka Kristal; Sariba, Emil Carl; Torre, Clifford Jade; Lopo, Ian James; Torre, Jim Lawrence; Conda, Nick Vincent GRADE 11 STEM

With High Honors: Rayco, Jovic

Francis; Penilla, Anthony Josh; Pinlac, Rosyl; Rico, John; Bragais, Denise; Bao, Anne Valerie; Yanzon, Mikaela Louise; Millena, Trisha Angel; Sabater, Clyde Daniel; Siwa, Andrea Mae; Baron, Bryan Louis; Jasareno, Miguel Joshua; Gueta, Jaime Teodoro; Ordan, Harissa Mae; Miraflor, Roella Mae; Reonal, Sandara With Honors: Guevarra, Nherlin; Marcellana, Carlo; Doroliat, Jan Vincent; Benito, James Fred; Sabal, Joanna Regina; Llaguno, Charles Eric; Moran, Ian Arjay; Buere, Samantha Hannah; Sevilla, Karl Vincent; Serrano, Arlan Matthew; Macatingrao, Erl Gerard; Mortega, Vince; Griarte, Immanuel John; Razo, Francine; Martinez, Jose Miguel; Malonzo, Red; Dating, Jeannah Angela; Magdaraog, Julianne Marie;

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cont. Gr. 11 STEM, With Honors Calupit, Shayne; Alcantara, Niña Sabrina Nicole; Devanadera, Althea Xuxa; Monforte, Faith; Nebreja, Christine Joy; Granatin, Hannah Bella; Sariba, John Ellyson; Madelar, James Marvin GRADE 12 HUMSS

With High Honors: De Leon, Ma.

Jacintha; Morga, Charissa; Añonuevo, Miguel Alfonso; Avengoza, Daniela Lourdes With Honors: Bereso, Euphraim Lianne; Sarza, Siena; Alesna, Madeleine Therese; Romero, Leo Okenn; Perez, Miguel Javier; Del Rio, Julianne Marie; Espinas, Joseph Daniel; Pontigon, Lea Danette; Carillo, Marc Perrie; Lausingco, Lance Tyrone; Letada, Romulo III; Obejas, Jan Asley; Zara, Artus Cesar; Barrios, Shawn Justine; Delos Santos, Justine Ray; Enconado, Dominik GRADE 12 STEM

With High Honors: Placides,

Brynt Yuan Lord; Mañago, Manuel Edison; Mestiola, Lycka Mae; Vibar, Regina Juliane; Orosco, Ivy Vera; Monte, Paula Jane; Samar, Jasmyn Shannel; Manrique, Justine Lariz; Monasterio, Maria Juliah; Pineda, Gabriel; Chua, James Christian; Otivar, Lyciah; Ibo, Elliah Noem; Teo, John James With Honors: Albao, Alvin; Almonte, Denise Diane; Rebustillo, Jianna Francesca; Averilla, Gwyneth Nicole; Achacon, Kyle Eldrick; Venus, Kristine Cris; Lita, Hewey James; Magallano, Eulet Amnyl; Barbudo, Vincent Andrei; Llana, Ma. Tiffany; Sayson, Paul; Magdaraog, Joy Marian; Lozano, Mikaella; Lunas, John Jomar; Calubaquib, Maridion; Aban, Adrian; Mallete, Francine Erica; Masbate, Relyn; Uy, Nicole Bianca Marie; Rebosura, John MC Arjie; Naz, Carl Rogelio III; Manzanilla, Godwin; Bon, Cyrus Joshua; Llana, Konrad Kian; Samar, Wynns Christian; Estuye, Emmanuel Josh; Baldo, Darlene *Names who appear in this list are awardees for academic excellence. Special awardees like service and extracurricular awardees are not included in the said list.

MAYONNEWS

The Mayon

NEWS RESEARCH CORNER BEST IN RESEARCH (HUMSS)

Peer Victimization and Suicidal Ideation among Lesbians, Gays, Bisexuals, and Transgender (LGBT) College Students: The Moderating Role of Perceived Family Support Study authors: Euphraim Lianne Bereso, Leo Okenn Romero, Jan Asley Obejas, & Joseph Daniel Espinas (2020)

Many studies have cited that lesbians, gays, bisexuals, and transgender (LGBT) youth are mostly exposed to peer victimization which could largely affect their mental health and suicide risk. For Bereso's team, their aim is to examine if perceived family support can have a buffering effect on the relationship between peer victimization and suicidal ideation among the said sexual minorities. "We found out that having high level of support from family tends to lower suicidal risk among LGBT respondents," Bereso said. The study recommended exploring self-acceptance as a pathway in order for perceived social support to take effect in suicidal ideation. This study won the "Best in Research" for the HUMSS category.

BEST IN INNOVATION

BEST IN RESEARCH (STEM)

Degradation Activity of Red Seaweed (Gracilaria) Agarbased Bioplastics Reinforced with Soy Protein Isolate Study authors: Brynt Yuan Lord Placides, Ivy Vera Orosco, James Christian Chua, & Godwin Manzanilla (2020)

Taking this year's awards for "Best in Research" and "Best in Innovation" is a study on the abundant marine life in the archipelago - seaweeds! On their study, the group turned these mostly-discarded algae into bioplastics, and reinforced soy protein to strengthen its physical properties. "We need to overcome our dependence on fossil fuels and start taking sustainable steps. Plastics has long been humanity's problem. By utilizing these surplus of marine algae, we're taking simple yet innovative steps." Orosco explained on an interview. The team also aimed to strengthen the bioplastic's properties to mimic those of the conventional, synthetic plastics. Through subjecting the bioplastic samples in soil and chemical samples, the group tested its biodegradability and chemical resistance. Results show that pure seaweed bioplastics are weaker than those blended with soy protein. The study bolstered the need to experiment with other properties and the potential of seaweeeds.

The abovementioned researches were part of the Grade 12 students' requirements in their Capstone/Research subject.

PHOTOS COURTESY

GETTY IMAGES

HS unit among recipients of DICT’s Free Wi-Fi Program MA. JACINTHA DE LEON

The Carlos Imperial Building, housing Bicol University Integrated Laboratory High School is now connected to the internet through the "Free Wi-Fi for All" Program. Spearheaded by Luzon Cluster 3 of the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the program has provided free internet access in select areas in Bicol University (BU). Besides the HS unit, the BU Graduate School, BU College of Arts and Letters, College of Medicine, Institute of Physical Education, Sports and Recreation Building, BU College of Education, BU College of Science Buildings 1&4, and BU College of Nursing are also recipients of the free internet access. The "Free Wi-Fi for All program" also has its limits when it comes to its internet speed, data usage, and websites accessed. The Free Wi-Fi can be accessed near wifi hotspots

throughout the BU campus, which has "DICT free wifi for all" as its network name. No password is needed to connect. Per day, a connected device is given 100 mb with an internet speed of at most 256 kbps. Antonio Bonganay, provincial officer of DICT-Albay assured through an interview with the Bicol Universitarian that the user's personal data will not be compromised once they are connected to the free internet Being an ongoing project of since 2016, the program ensures the internet connectivity among BUeños as part of their learning process. The DICT, in the said interview, said they will also be providing free internet access to remote campuses of BU in Albay, like the Polangui, Guinobatan, and Tabaco campuses.

Seniors top BUCET CHARISSA MORGA

Grade 12 students of Bicol University College of Education Laboratory School (BUCEILS) ace the Bicol University College Entrance Test for SY 2020-2021 as the results were released June 13 after being delayed. Of the tens of BUCEILS students who passed, 17 made it to the Top 15 mark of the varying course programs being offered in the university. The 17 are as follows: Julianne Marie Del Rio - Top 1, BA Literature Gwyneth Nicole Averilla - Top 1, BS Forestry Daniela Lourdes Avengoza Top 1, B Early Childhood Education Euphraim Lianne Bereso - Top 2, B in Early Childhood Education Brynt Yuan Lord Placides - Top 2, BS Chemistry Lycka Mae Mestiola - Top 3, BS Food Technology Manuel Edison Mañago - Top 4, BS Chemistry

Francine Erica Mallete, Top 5, BA Journalism Ma. Jacintha De Leon - Top 6, BA Political Science Ivy Vera Orosco - Top 7, BS Biology Lea Danette Pontigon - Top 10, BA Broadcasting Artus Cesar Zara - Top 10, BA Political Science Leo Okenn Romero - Top 11, BA Sociology Cyrus Joshua Bon - Top 12, B Performing Arts Theater Julieanne May Ardales - Top 12, B Secondary Education Emmanuel Josh Estuye - Top 12, BS Information Technology Maria Juliah Monasterio - Top 13, BS Information Technology

Know the courses being offered in BU

MAYONNEWS

LATHALAIN

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF BUCEILS-HS

Sa classroom may batas, bawal lumabas oh, bawal lumabas pero kapag nag-comply ka at inayos mo, ay pwede na pala ikaw lumabas. Pamilyar diba? Ito lamang ay mga katagang nagbigay aliw sa madla noong nakaraang buwan. Sa sobrang galak na naidulot nito, binigyan ito ng iba't ibang bersiyon mapakanta, mapasayaw o kahit anupaman ngunit sa likod ng mga linyang ito ay nakakibat ang isang napakahalagang mensaheng napapanahon sa ating bansa. Pagmasdan natin ang paligid, at siyasatin ang bawat anggulong mayroon. Sa ating kinagisnan, ang batas ay isang napakahalagang aspeto na yumari kung ano ang mundo ngayon. Ito ay nagsisilbing depensa ng mga mamamayan at armas laban sa mga sakim at mapanakop. Subalit paano kung ito ay inabuso na? Sa halip na depensa, ito ay naging armas laban sa mga mamamayan at sa halip na armas, ito ay naging depensa ng mga mapangabusong nilalang. Ang pangil ng batas ay unti-unting humihina at patuloy na kumakalas. Sa kasalukuyang panahon ng pandemya, marahil alam na nating lahat kung ano-ano ang mga alituntuning ipinatupad ng ating pamahalaan. Ito ay nagbigay kaligtasan at seguridad sa bawat mamamayan, ngunit naging sanhi rin ng pagbunga ng sangasangang problema na kumwestiyon sa lakas ng batas sa ating bansa. Naging usap-usapan sa social media ang mga kuhang litrato sa kaarawan ni Major General Debold Sinas sa Camp Bagong Diwa noong ika-8 ng Mayo kasalukuyang taon.

@TheMayon

JAMES CHRISTIAN CHUA

#NoFilter

Ito ay malinaw na paglabag sa quarantine protocols sa ilalim ng Batas Rebuplika 9271 o Quarantine Act of 2004. Ang nasabing pagtitipon ay dinaluhan ng iba't ibang kapulisan na kapansin-pansing hindi rin sumunod sa nasabing protocol, ngunit sa napakaraming alituntunin na kanilang nilabag, nananatili pa rin sa kanilang posisyon sina Major General Debold Sinas at iba pang kapulisan. Walang kaukulang parusa ang naipataw sa kanila. Nakaligtas din mula sa batas sina Mr. Koko Pimentel at Ms. Mocha Uson, isang senador at isang myembro ng gabinete. Katulad ni Major General, sila rin ay lumabag sa quarantine protocols ngunit hindi rin sila nabigyan ng parusa.

Wala ring parusang naipataw kay Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, sa kanyang pagkakalat ng maling impormasyong hinggil sa pandemiyang kinakaharap ng bansa. Sa isang senate hearing noong ika-20 ng Mayo, inilahad ni Duque na "Actually nasa second wave na tayo." Subalit ito rin ay kanyang binawi at sinabing nasa "first wave" pa lang. Sa likod ng pagkalitong kanyang ginawa sa madla, siya ay binigyang kapatawaran ng pangulo.

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Samantala, hinuli ang isang tindero ng isda matapos nitong lumabag sa quarantine protocols. Siya ay pinagmulta ng halagang Php 3,500. Nagtamo din ng kaliwa't kanang suntok mula sa mga pulis si Ronald Campo, isang factory worker, ng siya ay hindi sumunod sa quarantine protocol. Siya ngayon ay nasa pagamutan at nagpapagaling ng kanyang mga pasa at sugat. Hindi rin nakaligtas ang mga menor de edad ng Sta. Cruz, Laguna matapos silang ikulong sa isang "dog cage" dahil sa kanilang paglabag sa curfew hours sa ilalim ng quarantine protocol. Dura Lex Sed Lex. Ang batas ay marahas pero ang batas ay batas. Totoo na ang ating batas at ang kaparusahang ipinapataw nito ay malupit ngunit totoo rin bang hindi makatarungan ang batas ng ating bansa? Totoo bang may pinapanigan ang batas at ito ay hindi patas? Sa mundong pinamumunuan ng mga makapangyarihan, ang batas ang kanilang sandata, at ang mga nasa laylayan ang inaasinta.

Sa panahon ng pandemya, ang mga problema ay tila parang mantsa ng ballpen na 'di matanggal-tanggal sa ating mga kamiseta. Sa loob ng ilang buwang pamamalagi sa ating mga tahanan, tuluyan na nating nakita ang iba't ibang mukha ng pamahalaan. Kalakip na dito ang mga bagay na kapuri-puri at mga bagay na kapuna-puna. Katulad ng kantang nasambit, ang ating lipunan ay umiikot sa batas. Mga batas na huhubog sa katayuan ng bansa ngayon at sa hinaharap. Ngunit kapag ito ay inabuso na hindi na natin ito dapat ipagkipitbalikat lamang, sa halip ay kailangan nating matutong maglabas ng mga hinanaing at ayusin ito. Ang patuloy na pagtanggap sa mali, sa huli ay magdadala ng mabigat na kahihinatnan sa ating lahat. Ngayon, sana ay mabatid na ng bawat isa na nasa ating mga kamay ang kapalaran ng ating bansa at ng mga susunod na henerasyon. Ang panahon ng krisis ay ang panahon ng pagtutulungan at pagkakapitbisig. Hindi ito dapat maging dahilan ng pagkabuwal ng ating pagkaPilipino. Gayundin sana ay lubusan na nating maunawaan na ang ating batas ay para sa lahat, mahirap o mayaman, at hindi inaasinta para sa kapakanan ng mga nasa kapangyarihan.

COVER ART

MIKAELLA LOZANO

The Mayon

FEATURES MA. JACINTHA DE LEON Most of us, if not all, fear the idea of the unfamiliar. As human beings, we embrace the feeling of familiarity – may it be with the people we interact with, our beliefs, our practices, and even our routines, for for us these familiarities are our safe zone. Now, it is not a newsflash to say that change is inevitable. This just means that whether one likes it or not, unwanted changes are made and happens. Similarly, whether one likes it or not, one must learn to welcome the new and, at the very least, grow and cope from what has been – especially when it caused you anxiety, constant fear, and a heavy heart. And we are not talking about your exes here, we are talking about coping from the disastrous pandemic. In the Philippines, after a monthslong Luzon-wide lockdown as a preventive measure in the spreading of the virus, community quarantines are beginning to loosen up in the first week of May. Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) and General Community Quarantine (GCQ) are now observed in most of the regions in Luzon. More businesses and selected transportations can now resume their services and operations while observing the imposed guidelines made by their respective local government and department offices. And these, as they say is perhaps the beginning of what we call the new normal. As we take a step out of our backyards, let us accept the fact that we cannot any more live the lives we have left behind. With the virus still in our shadows, living an unfamiliar and a new lifestyle is what would keep us alive.

@TheMayon

INSIDE OUT See the difference

One of the manifestations of the change brought to us by the new normal is our way of interaction. As Filipinos, we put great value on greetings for this is our way of paying respect and acknowledgement to whomever we are interacting with. We grew up asking for a hand blessing to our elders (pagmamano) or kissing their cheeks whenever we meet them to pay respect. When meeting our colleagues, we are used to shaking their hands or doing high-fives, and to our closest friends, we are used to hugging them. Sadly, in the new normal, these warm forms of greetings are to be exchanged with a simple wave from afar or an elbow bump. Even smiles as a greeting won’t work anymore. You will need to have those face masks put on at all times. Distance markings are also to be expected as you go from place to place in the new normal. No man is an island, as the adage goes. However, in these times, it seems more favorable to see people as islands of their own, physically distant and away from another. Concerts, parties, ceremonies, and other mass gatherings, including church activities, where people are in close contact to one another are prohibited. Education, globally, is affected. In the Philippines, schools are advised not to re-open and to not welcome students back until a vaccine is made to be available.

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Traditional face-to-face learning is a risk to the lives of the students in this health crisis. The Department of Education deems the choice is between postponing the coming academic year, or a shift to elearning where students learn their lessons and accomplish their assignments using online applications or platforms. How we spend our leisure times are also greatly affected. In these times, the safest way to make the most of your leisure hours is to read a book, cook or bake some goods to eat, or watch movies or a K-Drama perhaps in the comforts of your room. Gone are the days when we all crowd up in a restaurant for that mouth-watering samgyupsal. Gone are the days when we head up to the cinemas to watch our most anticipated movies with our barkadas. Gone are the days when we spend summer days playing in the pool and beaches. Gone are the days when we sing our hearts out to the music of our favorite bands and artists until the clock strikes midnight. Our life before the pandemic sure is something to miss. No one knew that our last day out in the carefree world was the last. If only we knew how much this pandemic will take from us, then we could have spent our last days out to the fullest. If only we could all go back to how everything was before this health crisis.

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Coping up

No one can run from the reality that the threat of the virus is still alive. No matter how much we crave for the life we had before this pandemic, it’s not coming back until the whole world is free from the virus. As of May, statistics tell us that we are still far from achieving that. However, what we could do for the mean time is to observe the new normal – which, as of the moment, is the nearest we could get in experiencing the world once again. Change really is something one would not look forward to – especially if the change would deprive us something as precious as living a carefree life. But in the midst of this pandemic, changes in our routines, behavior, lifestyle, and interactions is necessary. To battle the pandemic and to live our lives again out of our homes, a compromise must be lived with. The new normal must be lived with. New normal is not something to loathe of. While it still advises to stay at home, prohibits gatherings, limits work, and postpones classes, everyone, especially the youth, should see this as an extended opportunity be more productive, to rest, to take care of your health, and maybe to know more about yourself. Use the abundance of time in your favor. No one knows how long we have to wear masks when going out, or how long we must keep distance from our friends. What we know for sure is that living the life we knew is not an available option in this crisis. Staying COVID-free requires much changes, and no one really has a choice but to accept it – especially now that we are once again opening up the gates.

ARTWORK JULIANNE DEL RIO

OPINION

TREND MILL

Jasmine Denise Alcayde

GRIMREAPER PHOTO COURTESY THE BICOL UNIVERSITARIAN

MANIFESTO OF UNITY AGAINST THE ANTI-TERRORISM LAW The Mayon editorial board stand in solidarity with the Filipino people in condemning the passage of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020. Many of the provisions in this act have ominous implications, and once enacted into law, it would be feared to lead to the infringement of our most basic civil liberties and enable abuse of power.

It would most especially undermine our ability to exercise our right to free speech. The Mayon, as a school publication, most dedicated to the continuous upholding of our freedom of speech, view this as a threat towards everything we stand for and protect. The passage of this legislation, along with the recent shutdown of ABS-CBN - one of the country’s most influential broadcasting networks - are clear manifestations of the government’s intent to stifle its critics and political opponents, at a time when their agenda should be focused at the bigger problem at hand. As the people continue to struggle with the harrowing consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, the nation must turn its attention and efforts toward battling the current crisis. The Anti-Terrorism Law would only aggravate the crisis and diverts our priorities away from what must be urgently addressed. We must not let this pull our country towards deeper turmoil. We join the people in their plea to #JunkTerrorLaw.

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, another issue has been the topic of discussions and debates on the news and social media: sexual harassment and violence. It’s not uncommon that with every woman who comes forward about her experience of harassment, the presence of victim-blaming is present. There are almost always questions thrown that suggest that the woman is to blame for what happened such as, “Did you scream for help?”, “Why were you in a place like that in the first place?”; and the most common: “What were you wearing?” Questions like these shift the blame to the victim for not being vigilant enough, not prude enough, not careful enough. As a woman, I know it’s wrong to blame victims for getting harassed; as this misplaced blame only benefits the perpetrators and the culture which allows crimes like this to persist. It’s ingrained in our culture that perpetrators ‘have no control of themselves’, so instead of addressing the root of the problem, women are taught to be careful instead. Up until now, I’m reminded not to show too much skin. I once felt the need to keep my jacket on even if it was way too hot because I was wearing a sleeveless shirt. We are taught to always keep ourselves covered, to be home before it gets dark, to never walk alone, among many other things. However, if these precautions truly prevent harassment, why do cases of harassment with girls wearing their below-the-knee-length school uniforms exist? Why do some cases of harassment happen in broad daylight? Why is it that even if a girl walks in a group, she

somehow catcalled?

still

fears

being

Our culture focuses too much on keeping us women in control instead of restraining the perpetrators. Harassment happens even to women who are being careful by the book. Harassment is more common than we think, but because of the society’s tendency to victimblame, more and more women are silenced. By pushing the narrative that women are to blame for their harassment based on what they were wearing, what they were doing, where they were and the like, only benefits perpetrators because it gives a sense of justification for what they did and at the same time, it invalidates the experiences of the victims. ‘Prevention’ is not possible for a problem that’s already transpiring. It’s time to realize that what’s taught to us women as ‘precautions’ aren’t preventing harassments at all. The only thing that allows perpetrators to continue with their crimes is because there’s nothing to keep them in check since the scrutiny is reserved for the victims. Even with an act that ensures safe streets, harassments will still occur if the society has normalized it happening because the woman ‘wasn’t being careful’. We shouldn’t have to go through so much measures to keep ourselves safe. We shouldn’t be scared of reporting or coming forward because we don’t want to get blamed. We need to stop perpetuating the culture that allows harassments to occur on the daily and blame the perpetrators themselves. It’s time to reassess our traditional way of thinking.

The only thing that allows perpetrators to continue with their crimes is because there’s nothing to keep them in check since the scrutiny is reserved for the victims.

#JunkTerrorLaw READ HERE THE #TERROR LAW

OPINYON

THE MAYON SY 2019-2020

Official School Publication of Bicol University College of Education Integrated Laboratory High School

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Brynt Yuan Lord Placides ASSOCIATE EDITOR Madeleine Therese Alesna MANAGING EDITOR Angela Nicole Vista

DOUBLE TROUBLE As the quarantine period progresses due to the ever-climbing number of COVID-19 cases in the Philippines, the coming academic year threatens to be encroached upon. For that, there are two available responses for this situation that are being weighed by the State at the moment: distance learning, or an academic freeze. Distance learning includes but is not limited to the distribution of modules to students, online classes, and the pick-up and drop off of schoolwork at schools by their parent/guardians. This aims to continue the education of all students, despite implemented restrictions. Distance learning may also promote the significance of self-studying, boost the learner’s instinct to be self-sufficient in their education, and in turn, life. Yet, distance learning poses a big question as to whether or not the education sector is prepared for such grand scale and type of learning platform. Distance learning also poses issues so as to its accessibility. Not every student has the technological capacity nor the safe and stable environment to learn from their homes. There are also students that have learning impediments that will not benefit from distance learning and often

truly require face to face classes in order to learn, amongst others. Separately, the academic freeze is what may be defined as something akin to a “gap year”, where in there will be absolutely no classes. It will be like taking a break in one grade level for an entire year and moving to the next as soon as the freeze is lifted. Note the manner in which the academic freeze is a school hiatus, not an education hiatus – students are fully welcome to take classes and learn from where they want, it is just that the school itself will not be demanding any work or output from students as there will be no classes, face to face or otherwise. It is akin to a gap year, where the student may do as they please, as they may. However, gap years are not a commonly well-tolerated practice within the locality. To many others, the prospect of taking a break from such pressure seems like a grand idea. While ideas like turning the gap year into a mental health break and such like are commendable, the issue of keeping the youth’s mind academically in shape is in question. While others may have initiative and take online classes from online

schools, not all will turn to such an erudite solution. It is a concern that many students will choose to either work to earn for their family or do nothing with their time. Only those at the upper classes can truly reap the advantages. At the end of the day, rich or poor, any student will face the consequences of either solutions. While both are interesting responses to the current times, it is still a question of which are we ready for, or, which are we more ready for than the other. Face-toface classes being out of the question until a vaccine is made and tested, it seems that if either plan is executed, it may be in for a longer haul than expected.

EDITORS Julianne Marie Del Rio Ma. Jacintha de Leon Jovic Francis Rayco Miguel Alfonso Añonuevo Freal Javen Del Castillo Daniela Lourdes Avengoza CARTOONISTS Maria Juliah Monasterio Mikaella Lozano Konrad Kian Llana PHOTOJOURNALISTS Regina Juliane Vibar Lea Danette Pontigon Immanuel John Griarte LAYOUT ARTISTS Brynt Yuan Lord Placides Julianne Marie Del Rio STAFF

We can only hope that all sides student, parent, government - are weighed equally in the decision process, while considering all the things we go through in these difficult times. For either solution has its consequences, it is only a question of how can we avoid double trouble.

James Christian Chua Charissa Morga Richard Alan Aquitania Alyssa Sofia Lofamia Anne Kateleen Vista Ella Cañaveral Jasmine Denise Alcayde Alfred Nelson Ramos Justin Salvatierra Freya Bartolata Yna Dorothy Buena Francheska Rito Zion Pornelosa Geo Angelo Labalan Juliana Landagan

It seems that if either plan is executed, it may be in for a longer haul than expected.

TECHNICAL ADVISERS Dr. Agnes Reonal Irwin Perea Dr. Norma Magdato

Carlos R. Imperial Building Bicol University Main Campus Rizal St., Legazpi City

CARTOON

MARIA JULIAH MONASTERIO

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OPINION

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF BUCEILS-HS

VIDEO CALL

JULIANNE DEL RIO

AVANTE GARDE Jovic Francis Rayco

GAME CHANGER Most, if not all, of us are likely worried about the coming school year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Most are probably worried due to the new blended learning curriculum. Aside from that, those who don’t have stable internet are also very uncertain since, due to how blended learning works, unstable internet will negatively affect our ‘new normal’ in school. And to top it off, our graduating seniors are also bombarded with anxiety because of all of that PLUS questions about entrance exams, college and etc.. We’re in a bit of a mess that we really want to overcome. To start with the most generalized concern, the new blended learning curriculum causes a lot of worry to us students. This is because, in our experience here in our Alma Matter, many, if not most, of us have never experienced online classes or have never experienced taking school tests online. To add on that, we only know a few of our teachers that conduct online classes in Google Classroom and etc. Though we might have had a glimpse of this during March(since some classes did take periodical exams during quarantine), a glimpse is simply not enough. As a simple fear of the unknown, of course we’ll be worried. Other than that however, if we include the likelihood that many of us have unstable internet, the new curriculum might feel inconvenient in one way or another. This is because some victims of unstable internet may have experienced accidentally sending their outputs twice, which causes misunderstandings with their instructor. Our graduating students are also dealing with a lot of uncertainty and anxiety due to having so many questions about entrance exams, scholarships, college, research, and others due to us being used to conducting these outside our homes. What we once knew is changed drastically

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and we’ll have to deal with it. And with the trouble that unstable internet may bring to students, like having no internet when you’re about to submit your output, the future sounds pretty bothersome. Sadly, the only way to deal with these worries so far, is to accept them. No matter what we do, we’ll always feel those worries as the coming school year begins. We will not be completely prepared for what’s going to happen next. But that’s okay because of the huge silver lining in this quarantine - preparation. We have a huge chunk of time to use for our preparations for our futures. We can always start studying for entrance exams early, we can always research more on how online learning feels, and we can always think of strategies in dealing with unstable internet. We have time to think of ways to handle our new situation. And even if we cannot be completely prepared, as long as we’ve at least readied ourselves, we’ll be fine. Along with having fun, have a good preparation season.

MOVIE RECOMMENDATION

Whisper of the Heart (1995) As a simple fear of the unknown, of course we’ll be worried. Other than that however, if we include the likelihood that many of us have unstable internet, the new curriculum might feel inconvenient in one way or another.

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Animation/Romance

1h 51m

You don’t expect less from a Studio Ghibli Film! Whisper of The Heart is a 1995 heart-warming story of finding love and dreams, and how these two can help bring out the best of each other. The movie focuses on the youth between a 14year-old bookworm Shizuki Tsukishima and the boy whose name is written in the catalog of all the books she reads, Amasawa Seiji. Anyone who has a hard time finding their path, feeling the pressure of being the only one who’s still so lost, admiring how dreams look so good on other people can relate to this animated film. You will realize that dreams come at their own pace and rushing to achieve it will only leave you frustrated and exhausted. Take your time, give it your all, and hold a hand who is willing to walk you to your dream.

PHOTO COURTESY MOVIE MEZZANINE

The Mayon

COMMUNITY

Quaran-thingz: Revising rules and regulations in the COVID-19 pandemic MADELEINE THERESE ALESNA 2020 has thrown us into a loop. There seems to be no rules. The old ones have been trashed and set to be replaced; the new ones have yet to arrive. The present is a grey area, muddled, half known. One has just finished processing February then turned to suddenly meet June. In the current state of affairs, the whole world seems to be both in slow motion and 2x fast forward at the same time. This occurrence has created a whiplash effect that everyone experiences. In quarantine, jobs have been both made and lost, go smith and left hanging, rules followed and undone. Such occurrences have created the whiplash, let's see how it gave birth to two kinds of people

in quarantine: the better and the worse. Born of the new normal community quarantine, relief goods, zoom calls, 3:00 a.m. lunches - the better and the worse are manifestations of the whiplash everyone's mental health has gone through in the past six months of 2020 thus far. In order to cope with the current status quo, the sink or swim instinct within everyone has kicked in, resulting in either ultimate productivity or devastating inadequacy. To join the fray and add fuel to the fire, social media has taken this as an excellent opportunity to flood explore pages with quarantine crafts, glow ups, projects and the like. From videos of workouts promising to tone you at home, home clean-ups and decorating, to cute time-consuming-to-prepare meals, Social Media manages to thrive in these trying times. While social media is an excellent method of staying connected with the old times we have all left behind, it serves as a method of virtual peer pressure for everyone to do something while in quarantine. This is where the two kinds of people in quarantine come in. There are people that one may call betters. Those people making aesthetic food and posts, has started on yoga and meditation, works out, and has redecorated their room. Those who are classified as betters are fortunate and resourceful, thriving despite social distancing and travel restrictions. They have been able to cope better with all the 2020 has thrown at them.

SKETCHIFY

On the other hand, there are people who have gotten worse. Some of them already had it bad before this all began, others were doing perfectly fine. But what has made them classify as worse, is that instead of being able to cope with the situation, they have decided to answer their instinct with sink instead of swim. People who are classified as worse often mull over their failed plans, miss the friends they want to call but are too anxious to do so, or are stuck in the same old space but worse. Yes, they have plans to take that online course too - just not now, maybe? They're eating lunch at 3:00 a.m., stretching at 7:00 p.m., Sleeping from 4:00 a.m. To 3:00 p.m., and slugging along the days and barely make an effort anymore. They close their eyes and wish that tomorrow will be better than today, only to wake up with no motivation. Isolation has done a number on us all that we can all agree. And often, people were tagged either better or worse or actually both. People have always been both, only quarantine has thrown this all into a greater relief. In the past, we have often blurred the differences in each of the personalities we adopt for different places and different people. A poem from the Philippine post war period, written by Virginia Moreno explains that we wear masks because we have to, and because we want to. Order for masks had outlined a woman's life and the three major roles she plays, portraying how she must be seen, and as she had desired to be seen. Today, this piece of literature echoes again in our status quo of wanting to fit into quarantine goals. Before, we had plenty of masks we wore as we needed and pleased. One wore a mask of a friend when in the company of friends, a mask of a student when with teachers, a lover when with their significant other, of family, when with family. Now, however,

one is only ever with family and the masks we used to wear beg to be worn again. For it has become natural as breathing, and is indeed socially acceptable to wear masks. Now, however, one feels the weight of wearing a mask too long; as such the mask worn when which family feels brittle some days, fine on some others due to the lengthy time period one has had to consistently wear it. But this is the issue masks are not meant for long-term wear. Even our quarantine - required masks have to be thrown away or washed. The quarantine goals trend, having produced betters and worse, both speed and deteriorate our masks. For the brief moment that you, or some other content producer made bread, perfected the fox eye makeup, worked out or rearranged their bookshelf, a mask was worn and taken out for a spin. In the days that one simply laid and slept, cried or ate their weight in noodles and sweets, another mask had been donned and used. Both activities are healing and destructive to the masks we all wear. For at the end of the day, our masks, and what we do while wearing them are only as good as we are inside. So, whatever one might do, true quarantine goals are not simply trimming down or finally catching up on that six season drama you missed during the school year. Quarantine goals, as a better, worse, or both are in the careful nursing nurturing and growth of our mental health, which we need to face our new normal. If you're having a good "better" day, share tips and activities with your peers. If you're having a "worse" day, remember that you are not alone. Communicate with friends and family.

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COMMUNITY

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF BUCEILS-HS

LDR:Long Distance Recovery MADELEINE THERESE ALESNA

In February 2020, no one thought things would escalate this much. Junior High School Students were facing their Quarterly exams, Senior High School had just skimmed through their last midterms of the year. Junior High students were longing for Summer that seemed too far away, while both 10th and 12th graders were planning their last as a batch. Everything seemed set and ready to go. Nothing could have prepared the population for what was to come next. In the early days,

COVID-19, or, 2019-nCoV was dismissed as a relative of the flu, far less fatal and harder to transmit. This led to lax safety protocols that until now are dismayingly observed all around us. The early misunderstanding of the nature of COVID-19 can be said to have stemmed from lack of proper information disseminated to the public, due to the novel nature of the virus, lack of concrete facts as to the nature of the virus, and even the political stance of many a nation towards the country from which the illness has originated from. Coupled with the media working with little facts and much sensation, COVID19 was highly misunderstood from the very start. Hoarders lived in their element once the first COVID-19 (then 2019nCoV) local case last March 6, 2020. Stores held “No Mask Available” signages like banners, daring one to enter and inquire about masks. 70% Alcohol also vanished from shelves, along with surgical gloves, Vitamin C, Multivitamins, and even the Darth Vader-esque N95 masks. The event led to consumers shifting from store to store, hoping to purchase protection from the suddenly real threat to their health. Not many went home with successful purchases.

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From dashed plans, misinformation, political power plays, sensationalism, hoarding and many others, the public’s mental health has dealt many blows in the past six months; it is nearly a miracle we all still manage to function in a fashion or anotherif we still do. When community quarantine was imposed, all were sure they would be back to the old normal after two weeks. No one resumed to normal. Not after the two weeks, not after three, or four, or six, or ten. It has become our new truth that there would be no old normal any longer. The new normal was touted by many a political speech or Youtube video, the kind one has taken to watching after makeup tutorials for fox eye looks or Jamie Oliver’s bread making classes. But what the new normal would be, none really knows. Circles on the pavement, smaller class sizes, zoom lessons, sweatpants 5 days a week, joggers the other two, going to the market to buy food seems like a threat -- is this the new normal? In the beginning, jokes about introverts enjoying the peace and quiet and extroverts being driven up the wall by the lack of interaction seemed like a funny joke. It does not seem so now. Now, many of us, whichever one might be, does not matter any longer; everyone is going through their own kinds of withdrawal symptoms. Like the kind junkies get when they try to abruptly end their addictions, one’s own symptoms come from having to stay at home for one’s own health and safety. To make it clear, still, the idea that some of the population, if not all, are having problems due to being unable to connect with people face to face like one used to before this all began is not an excuse to break all the ECQ, MGCQ, or CGQ rules set for the community. The rules are for everyone’s health and safety, despite the drawbacks they cause, these rules being the best one can do for oneself and others in these times. Therefore, it is up to our own selves to answer to one’s

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needs that rules have restricted traditional access to. These times are unlike any before known, despite having vague similarities to past events, no event has occurred exactly as these times have; making all that anyone does seem new and great. However, new and great are not for everyone at all. While one would probably have a friend, or three that has completed a course, or seven online on Languages, Baking, First Aid, and the like, a majority of the population have difficulty in adjusting to the lack of social interaction and end up in bed all morning, reading or playing games, doing menial chores if at all.

but as an accepted unintentional by product of events. Social Isolation this 2020 may well be the defining moment of this Decade, if not generation. With a new normal comes a host of Mental Health issues that all must prepare to accept, cope and treat. Mental Health issues borne of these events or otherwise ought not to be brushed aside as a petty offshoot of events. It is high time that Mental Health issues are treated as normal and given attention to. Ignorance and denial of such will lead only to a negative impact to the normalization of our new normal in the wake of COVID-19.

There is no shame in belonging in either of these “categories” of individuals in quarantine. Everyone has very different ways of reacting to the social withdrawal that all have been going through these past months. There are ways that one may improve their mood in isolation, minus person to person contact. Calling one’s friend group every now and then, stretches, hot drinks, journaling, baking, crafts, and listening to slowed, lofi, or reverb songs help as well. Reducing stressors in the environment such as clutter, noise or scents greatly improve the mind; depending on one’s beliefs, one may employ anything, from Marie Kondo’s Spark Joy ideology or even traditional Feng Shui in rearranging things in your space.

Nearly everyone experiences these issues in varied forms as a result of Social Isolation, and therefore seems much set as a part of our new normal. Women and girls, LGBTQ+s (especially those still in the closet), less fortunate individuals, and the like suffer from Mental Health issues due to withdrawal from their familiar support group.

The disturbance one feels in oneself could be root of possible Mental Health issues, thus making it a priority to be nursed. It is understandable that at times, even one’s own home can feel stifling, considering that family members are the majority of one’s interactions in the past months. While Family is the seat of the traditional Filipino home, it is entirely comprehensible that one gets tired of the same people and ideas surrounding oneself after all this time. It is not wrong in any way shape or form that one develops, notices, learns or all three, one’s Mental Health issues in these trying times. With these unusual times, Mental Health issues have to be treated not as a shock

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In the end, Mental Health issues in these unprecedented times are at the forefront of the new normal that must be addressed as part of everyone’s altered lives. Part of this includes seeking support by addressing the issue. While earlier suggestions can be part of addressing the issue, professional aid can be helpful in the situation.

#YouAreNotAlone

THE MAYON

INSIDER

Iskul Bukol When schools nationwide shut down indefinitely because of the pandemic, education went online and the grave issue of digital divide in the country was suddenly brought to light. Like thousands of other students in the Philippines, Franz Berdida and Kriselyn Villance had to cope with this virtual classroom set-up. However, for them, it was especially difficult. Franz, a civil engineering student from Mapua University, climbed a mountain while Kriselyn, a criminology student from Capiz State University, died in an accident on her way home. Both were searching for a decent cell signal just so they could submit their school requirements.

JULIANNE DEL RIO

As the pandemic diverted most of our daily affairs online, internet connection became a basic utility, and those who could not afford it have been isolated, especially in education. Students everywhere have been shut out from their online classrooms and some have to make drastic efforts just to be able to participate. The digital divide is a manifestation of economic inequality that has been deeply prevalent on a global scale for centuries. It has only become more visible as the pandemic aggravates its consequences, affecting the rich and poor so disproportionately. Even before the pandemic, students have already been struggling to complete homework and write papers because they lack access to necessary devices and a proper internet connection. Many students come from lowincome households that cannot afford to have such resources, while others live in far-flung, rural communities where the internet remains barely accessible. Even those who are privileged enough to afford home internet access still struggle with the slow, unreliable connection. It is also crucial to acknowledge that teachers grapple with the same difficulties as well. Just recently, clamor erupted on social media after Bicol University issued an administrative order declaring the resumption of classes via remote learning and teaching. Both students and faculty voiced their criticisms against the universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decision, pointing out how it is inconsiderate and only caters to those who're privileged. Many urged for mass promotion and

the semester to be ended immediately. The online protesting reached a fever pitch when an anonymous group of students hacked the official university webpage. The hacked webpage displayed a statement requesting a revision of the administrative order. It was a bold gesture that undoubtedly helped call attention to the grievances of the students, and which amplified the urgency for them to be addressed. Eventually, the concerns raised by the students and faculty led to the issuance of clarificatory guidelines on the previous administrative order. As the academic year drew to an end, demands for mass promotion were replaced with demands for an academic freeze. Students and teachers began to face the ominous possibility of having to start the next academic year online. While it is important for education to be continuous in order to avoid the stagnation of academic growth, the capability and well-being of the students, as well as teachers, must be taken into greater account, especially during this time of calamity.

Doing so would require tremendous effort that would be much better redirected to the more urgent exigencies of the moment such as mass testing and effective mitigation measures. When these exigencies have been addressed, the government should consider mapping out a systematic strategy to narrow the digital gap, as the end of the pandemic would entail a new normal. There is no guarantee that our lives would revert exactly to the way it was before. Nevertheless, the digital divide would not stop becoming relevant even after the pandemic is over, and bringing a close to it would be worth all the effort.

The digital divide has only become more visible as the pandemic aggravates its consequences, affecting the rich and poor so disproportionately.

With the cases of COVID-19 in the country still surging, and a vaccine yet to be manufactured and distributed, it is still ill-advised to reopen schools and resume inperson classes â&#x20AC;&#x201C; let alone shift to less stringent quarantine protocols without effective mass testing. Remote learning is also not the most prudent solution as it poses too many difficulties that the majority of our schools are not equipped for. While it does eliminate the need for physical presence, which is fitting for the current situation, a significant portion of both students and teachers would be at a disadvantage. The best option that would accommodate everyone would be an academic freeze, at least until the crisis abates, or until the government finds a way to efficiently taper the digital divide.

ARTWORK

JULIANNE DEL RIO