The NORSUnian Vol XXXV Issue 10,11,12

‘Education is the ultimate game changer’—VP Robredo IRISH MAE S. CUARESMA

VICE PRESIDENT OF the Philippines emphasized on the importance of education as she graced the Student Assembly conducted by Federation of Student Government (FSG) in Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) gym on August 25.

Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo, the event’s guest speaker, said education is the country’s ultimate game changer.

In her speech, Robredo pointed out the challenges the country is facing including the massive drug criminality and the critical poverty which can only be solved through education.

She also said the government is now putting greater attention to education. One of which is the free tuition to State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) approved

by President Duterte and the office of the Vice VP/ to page 4

WE WRITE FOR YOU. WE FIGHT FOR YOU. VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 10-12 AUGUST 7-25, 2017

ATTENTION TO EDUCATION. Vice President of the Philippines Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo serves as the guest speaker during the Student Assembly conducted by Federation of Student Government (FSG), August 25 2017. (Photo by Pamela Louise M. Abrasado)

IRISH MAE S. CUARESMA

the alumni with the highest rating in the board examination. Damian was granted with the reward as per instruction given on the Board of Regents (BOR) Resolution No. 10 which states FEDNORSUA will give cash reward to alumni who shall rank first in board examinations.

“The cash reward from

AFTER ATTAINING THE top rating in October 2016 Geodetic Engineer Licensure Examination (GELE), Diane Lea Damian was awarded with a total of P25, 000 cash reward from the Federation of Negros Oriental State University Alumni, Incorporated (FEDNORSUA, Inc.).

FEDNORSUA, Inc. faculty and staff recognized Damian on a special session on August 22, awarding FEDNORSUA,

Inc. and the recognition will serve as a motivation to other Norsunians who will take their board exams too,” Damian said.

Nilo Sayson, president of FEDNORSUA, Inc., said the money came from F E D N O R S UA itself, while the cash reward was determined in accordance to the 50 percent of the total cost of the

tuition fee Damian has spent in her entire year in the university.

Notably, October 2016 GELE topnotcher Damian is the first alumna to bring NORSU on top in board examinations.

Damian got an average rating of 85.20%, while NORSU’s overall performance rating on the said board examination reached 88.89% after eight out of nine examinees passed.

ra man gud ang special case sa engineering nya kabalo ko nga dili lalim,” he added.

“If that will happen, we are promoting engineering… programs of engineering are priority of the government, then how can we attract students if that is our policy?”

He divulged CEA had

once stopped off semester and summer classes enrollment in the past and the student population dropped to 60%.

More so, Villanueva refuted the rumor that fifth year students will be exempted of the off semester and summer classes enrollment if there will CEA/ to page 4

KENNETH CARLORIO S. SURILLA

Aquino III in 2015 creating NIR with the two provinces.

EO No. 38 states, “The establishment of regional offices (ROs) of departments and agencies in the NIR requires substantial appropriation to be fully operational, thus competing with government priority programs for funding.”

“When we came in, I was confronted with a P19 billion request by various agencies for that new region. I said, that’s not affordable, we have other NIR/ to page 11

CEA appeals to continue off sem, summer classes MARY JOY C. LLORENTE

BENEFITING FROM THE free tuition subsidy under Republic Act 10931 where “no tuition fee shall be collected from undergraduate students,” College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) appeals to continue off semester and

summer classes enrollment.

CEA dean Josef Vill Villanueva expressed, “During our last meeting [Academic Council Meeting] … nihangyo ko nga engineering [CEA] will be exempted of that.”

“Gipaningkamutan jud na nako. Ako ga-fight jud ko ana…in every meeting. Kita

NORSU allots P1.5M sports facility fund NARLYN R. MASCARDO

A TOTAL OF P1.5 million fund from the General Appropriation Act (GAA) of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) will be allocated for the restoration of the university sports facility.

University engineer Michael Saga said the P1 million will be allotted for the

renovation and rehabilitation of the gym and the remaining P500, 000 is for the purchase of sports facility.

Based on the list presented to him from the Director of Physical Education, Sports and Athletics Robeleo Padernal, the proposed facilities for sports are two pairs of portable net post for badminton, NORSU/ to page 9

FROM BLUE TO GREEN

SWEET AND SOUR PAGE 2

NIR closure affects Neg Or TWO YEARS AFTER its creation, President Rodrigo Duterte signed Executive Order (EO) 38 disbanding Negros Island Region (NIR) and displacing workers and offices due to budget competition.

Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental will return to their original region composition as EO No. 38, signed on August 7, revoked EO No.183 series of 2015 signed by former President Benigno

BABY STEPS

UNIVERSITY DIARIES

PAGE 3

Photo by Ma. Angelica G. Ho

FEDNORSUA recognizes GELE topnotcher

LEADING LIGHT OF SUCCESS. Geodetic Engineering board topnotcher, Engr. Diane Lea Damian (lower center) together with the Board of Directors.

CCJE to put up P8M gun range

MARY JOY C. LLORENTE

TO BE ACQUAINTED with the fundamentals of marksmanship with varieties of weapons in different scenarios, university engineer Michael Saga plans to put up a shooting gun range worth P8 million for the College of Criminology and Justice Education (CCJE).

Saga said it is for the criminology students “para sa ilang target shooting” to incorporate them to reinforced tactical training exercises.

The gun range will be situated near the new 3-storey Criminology building wherein the administration plans to construct a basement for “they [administration] want it to be sound proof.”

BS Criminology student Marco Diaz said, “Okay kaayo kay ma-expose mi daan sa mga firearms nga possible namo magamit sa field in the future.”

Agreeing with Diaz, BS Criminology student John James Sacramento stressed, “Ma-practice among reflexes in case of situations nga kinahanglan og fast actions and thinking skills.

Daghan ming students nga approve ani.”

However, BS Agriculture student Mary Jane Despojo cited, “Dapat i-make sure lang nila nga safe na kay dili lang sila ang ga-occupy sa campus. [Let us put] safety first.”

“It has to be in the basement,” said Saga, speaking of the danger it poses to other students CCJE/ to page 12

DO YOU PROVIDE...

UNIVERSITY POLL PAGE 4

OPINION

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VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 10-12|AUGUST 7-25, 2017

EDITORIAL Challenge: Rising To Excellence School facilities are one of the best avenues in producing quality education. The advent of digital media, network teaching, and learning platforms provide an opportunity to improve teaching and learning process. NORSU— Bayawan-Sta.Catalina Campus, one of the largest networks of school in the province, strives to promote excellence and quality education to the students; however, the university itself failed to feature advanced classroom set-ups and other facilities.

Facility quality plays an important role for teacher retention and student learning. With respect to teachers, it affects their recruitment, retention, commitment, and effort. With respect to students, it affects engagement, learning, and growth in achievement. It is a challenge to serve a large number of students with complex needs without adequate facilities and resources. Improving the quality of school facilities is an expensive approach, but the reward of such investments far surpass its cost when the positive impacts of facility improvement on teachers and students are translated into peso figures.

We do not have fully equipped computers and laboratories. The library has no adequate numbers of books and references. It has no wide array of research resources and other top-of-the-line computer equipment. This made the students lost their interest to visit the library, because it cannot answer all of their needs when it comes to learning.

Try to imagine our settings as of now. Supposed to be, those students taking up science courses must have a laboratory room where they can conduct their experiment and do actualization of the equipment.

Students having English subjects must have their speech and stage arts room. And for those who are taking up MAPEH courses, they should have a gymnasium provided with tools and training equipment. Classrooms are not well-ventilated and even the lights are not well-functioning. These are some of the facilities we need but we can name more if you want.

How can we rise to excellence? How can we upgrade our learning? How can we produce competitive learners? We only focus on knowledge but we fail to actualize things. We have to remember that there is a gap between what we know and what we actually do, and it is what makes us powerless than others.

We wanted so much to reach the top, but we are bombarded by lots of restraining forces that slow down our goals to happen. This is now the call!

We want our voices to be heard, so we can get the attention of the stakeholders and the administration.

If we want our campus to upgrade, then where is the desire to do so? This is now the challenge. – TN Bayawan-Sta. Catalina Campus

From blue to green I am in love with the way the sea reflects the sky and how its sound reaches my ears. I am amazed how its waves dance as the wind blows, creating ripples in the sand. And when the sky is full of stars and the sea is still at night, I get this wonderful sensation— I feel like floating in the air.

Real food do not come processed in cans and bags; they come from the forest, the sea, and the fields. Who

says only the trees on land provide the oxygen that we breathe. With every breath we take and every move we make, the sea is connected to us. Yes, most of the oxygen in the atmosphere is generated by the sea.

Unfortunately, the ocean is considered as a toilet bowl for all of our chemical pollutants and waste. With this, we start to face the reality that these contaminants go high up in

the food chain. In festival and celebrations, seafood is the important eating essential as it is considered as a symbol of prosperity and abundance. We, Asian people, are fond of eating seafood all the time, and fish are eating plastic all the time. See the logic? If the sea contains plastics, so do the products we harvest from it.

The open dumpsite in Barangay Candau-ay reminds me of our problem with regard to waste management disposal.

Due to urbanization, toxic colonialism, and global waste trade, the volume of our trash increases from time to time.

Plastic is the most common type of marine debris found in our ocean. It comes in all shapes and sizes, but those that are less than five millimeters in length are called, “microplastics.”

Often described as saltand-pepper sized flakes of

plastic, microplastics are likely mixed in salt water— finding their way into the wastewater treatment system and then, into the bodies of water.

Going back to the open dumpsite here in Dumaguete, an immediate response is a must. This city badly needs a sanitary landfill where waste is isolated from the environment until it is safe.

The discovery of accumulated plastics in our body is an urgent concern.

It is alarming to realize that the biggest, fattiest fish may have the highest levels of mercury, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and other dioxins. Scientists say that plastics are like sponge for chemicals when they end up in the ocean. It is impossible to know whether the seafood that we buy at the market has consumed plastic unless tested for contaminants by experts, so I think this is quite alarming.

VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 10-12|AUGUST 7-25, 2017

The Happy Ber of days

For a while, let us leave behind the dark days of Oplan Tokhang, the smuggling in the Bureau of Customs, the never

ending shoot outs and murders, and the forever investigations at the senate, instead let us talk about love since it’s the season

Traffic Lights You may want to picture life’s pillars as traffic lights – three colors that guide us when to stop, to let go, and to take action.

It was Saturday; everyone in the church was busy. We had our early practice because we`re going away from the city for a feeding program, part of the city’s “Character First: Bayawanihan” program.

It was a great short day spending time with some of the pastors, faith community youth, and LGU workers. I could say that was one of the best experiences I ever had in serving children although one day, I could feel it’s worth time-consuming.

Some children were shy, talkative, and lousy while others were simply quiet with ignorance painted on

Before touching the sky One of the best things in life may be the mere imagination of yourself touching the sky. Well, as for me, I love it when the rain

pours and it hits my skin like magic. And, oh yes! It was raining during that one morning.

First thing I noticed was

Inconsistency calls for desperate times Desperate situations make desperate people, and a flawed system creates these types of situation.

When I came in to the university, I’ve witnessed how inconsistent the

university is in implementing and operating the entire institution. I first realized it when the on probation policy was introduced, which caused an uproar to the entire student body.

OPINION

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to give love.

The weather becomes a little less warm and becomes colder as we draw close to December. Well, I don’t know why but most of my friends mark birthdays in September and October. The elderly then jokes that the cold breeze and dreamy month of December has a lot to do with it. It’s officially the sweater-weather month.

September-October was harvest time for the luscious lanzones, the reason our family made what became a traditional pilgrimage to a relative’s home in Dapitan City. Well, harvest

time is an event itself that we sure wouldn’t miss.

It’s the season when Jose Mari Chan’s undying Christmas season songs will again conquer the speakers of the mall and your neighbors. Television and radio programs will start the countdown, making us the longest Christmas celebrating people.

The Ber fashion, food, sales, festivals, promotions, 13th month bonuses, office raffles, and your vacation / sick leave cash conversions (for working students). Event organizers brew up lots of party and festival themes that you

can’t even decide which one to attend.

Groceries are flooding with Buy 1 Take 1 promos but you just have to have good eye for this. Food stalls pop out almost everywhere. Your favorite queso de bola, bibingka and puto bumbong are buzzing with people.

The spectacle of saving the best for last must have been meant especially for these months. As the marker of the calendar end draws nearer, well the Philippines puts up a happy mood to mark the start of the “ber” phenomena — pinnacle of

celebrations that will reach its climactic peak with the back-to-back grand kicker during Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day. So as to say it, one third of the year is under the Ber phenomena and presumably the longest shopping holiday. Let’s face it, Christmas is usually the time when we overshoot our budgets as we get carried away in the spirit of good cheer. If those mentioned above didn’t give you that special thrill, I don’t know what else will. Let the countdown begin!

their faces. At someone`s beck and call, I noticed one of them was playing in a puddle near me. I tried to keep him away from that clay pool but his hard to be shadowed. One of the girls on the other side knew him and took him away from it. I went back to my place when a flash of memory came, “So true! Childhood sometimes does pay a visit.”

I thought I was watching myself in a movie with those unforgettable memories.

Evening came, and we enjoyed our dinner. The film showing in the last part of the program had started and the working team watched the movie while I stayed in the barangay health center.

Darkness hovered over the room, and I felt the cold wind as it touched my skin.

The horrifying sound of the movie made me anxious but I had a deep desire to

be alone. I was playing the guitar to go with my nostalgic song when someone was flooding back to me. At the moment, somebody walked in and it was Kuya Ritchie. He borrowed the guitar and played one of his favorite songs in the year 70`s entitled “Diary”

by David Gates. He told me the story behind that song and I found myself in stitches. We were hilariously sharing experiences without knowing that we came to more sober areas of our lives.

I was not expecting a crucial spot of our conversation when he mentioned about his father that made a quick sharp revolution wholly smashing my heart. It was ridiculous for perchance there`s no way out even if how hard I winced my face, I was dreaded mark – drained with a beaded eye that tears fell until I whimpered so

he asked, “why?” I didn’t want to talk though I bore my heart and soul, leaving myself totally vulnerable.

I couldn`t do an itsy – bitsy with wee devils in my wit so I started sharing my story. Out of the blue, I trekked in the past reminiscing the agonies ten years ago. My heart went tough and begun to wrestle my mind. The debris of sentiment stirred me up completely. My heart sank trying to put on hold my hate to someone`s guts. Someone who brought about my life in this world, someone I swore never to love since I was five.

Blatantly stupid emotion as anger and hunger of love collided when time made a great twist with my feelings.

Time flew swiftly and I couldn’t imagine myself fallen heads over heels in love with him. I never thought of going through a

bit of a rough patch when my heart ruled over my head. Then, I realized that the one I didn`t care a whit was exactly the one I lacked and the one who’s probably nothing else in this world could ever be. Often times I dreamed to be with him but waking up only brought me to the world of sorrow where I couldn’t trace a path to recover.

There were times that I`m crippled from falling wishing that if only he`s here, he’ll be my protector and my comforter. In fact, I had no idea when to stop this feeling, “to be loved and be with my father” but I rather bid my time even if my hope was against hope and even if sometimes my hope was on its last leg.

I could feel the essence of sympathy from a pure heart as spring water when TRAFFIC/ to page 4

the beautiful, ocean-like color of the sky, but as I stepped out of the vehicle that we rode on, the foul smell immediately filled my nostrils even though I was wearing a black facemask. I just got myself within the vicinity of the Sanitary ‘Landfill’ of Candauay, Dumaguete City (but to me, it somehow looked just like an ordinary dumpsite).

I really was aware of what was going to happen even before me and my companion decided to see and talk to the residents near the site and the caretakers of the Environment and Natural Resources Office (ENRO). So yes, off we went

to an adventure (not-so) of a lifetime.

We met Maria Merlinda Sarne, a 48-year-old caretaker who works for ENRO. I learned that she has been working there for a couple of years now and it somehow struck me when she said that before, the number of garbage was only a few compared now.

Now, I keep wondering.

How does that place can even be called a Sanitary Landfill when it is even an open area?

Well, I thought open sites were illegal? Or are they? Seems to me, uh, no. The obliterating smell seriously drives out (probably) my sanity. Any

cover would become a mere understatement when it faces the wrath of this site.

As to what I have observed, the city really is facing a major crisis. And to think that the dumpsite is just beside the river, how ironic right? A place where there should be clean and safe water is beside the dirtiest spot in the city.

I guess not everyone really knows this situation happening within the Candau-ay area. The people I have talked with there says they experience health problems, but they just let them be because they are

already used to the risks of the place. How can they even fathom that when I can’t even take just a few seconds of staying there?

It is a very big issue and it annoys me whenever I feel like the government doesn’t want to take actions despite the penalties. I only hear about plans, plans, plans, oh those plans be damned! It annoys me even more when I see a student or students in the university leaving their garbage everywhere without even batting an eyelash! The nerve!

Okay, since this is the BEFORE/ to page 4

Oh, how tragic it was for the students in colleges that prioritize quality over quantity in which fourth year students had to shift. Those who were supposed graduate within five years had to extend for another two, cries echoed the hallways as students received their grades. It was a shock for us freshmen during that time, indeed.

It made me wonder, does the administration even know what is written in the university’s student handbook? Because if they did, then situations wherein unheard policies would suddenly resurface, won’t have to happen. What makes it worse is the fact that most of the students are naïve of what the handbook’s contents

are. Why? Well, how long has it been since the students last received a handbook? I, myself, have never received one, and to think, I am already on my third year here.

Inconsistency, this is one of the main problem of our university. They are inconsistent with the rules that they make and the people who they place on certain positions. For instance, the designees in offices are suddenly removed from their positions before the year even ends, without notifying those who are directly concerned by it; thus, causing lapses and chaos. Correct me if my wrong with this, but I have witnessed such commotion when I had my summer class.

During this year, I have concluded that if there’s one thing that the university is consistent with, it is with their inconsistency. On the start of the year, a hearsay circulated in our college— a hearsay that there will be no longer off-semester and summer classes for subjects that will be requested by the students. What once was a hearsay, became official in an interview with the registrar confirming the issue; thus, dooming those who depended on special classes in order to regain their standing.

It was explained that due to the free tuition policy, it would be contradicting if us, the poor and deserving students, will have the money to afford to pay for special

classes. The reason is quite understandable, but neither proper announcement nor an orientation was done.

Is proper dissemination of information no longer important?

Losing the only chance to regain once academic standing is too painful to bare. Do place yourself on the shoes of the students who are desperate in taking the special classes, think about the grief of being a semester behind.

Imagine the agony and the inconvenience of waiting ‘til the next year to take up the subject with no assurance of its availability, considering that there will be a new prospectus for the next school year.

INCONSISTENCY / to page 12

NEWS

TRAFFIC /from page 3 Kuya Ritchie said, “You have a unique great story in life and it is willed by God. Do you know that life`s pillar is like a traffic light?

There are three colors which become a guide for us when to stop, to let go and to take action.” The next words he said was positively brimming and smoothly went without saying. Emily Dickinson was right, “Hope is the thing with feathers” at last after a long time somebody met the tell tales in my heart.

Months later I received a message from a friend, “There`s too much in life that you have to enjoy and to be thankful for.

Be strong and do not be shaken.” Now, being your camaraderie I would like to take this chance to share this with you. You may want to picture life`s pillar as a Traffic Light – there are three colors which become a guide for us when to stop, to let go and to take action.

STOP – “Don`t be afraid to accept the reality that the thing you yearn so much to have is probably the thing you could never have” (Anonymous). You are fashioned by what you believe yet you know what is right and wrong subsequently there are only two things that you might bring into this life – good and evil. But the application is straightforward, you need to stop from doing things that would only devastate you and bring no good tidings in life. So, if you can`t get what you want then like what you have.

Let go. “Letting go doesn’t mean giving up but rather accepting that there are things that cannot be” (Unknown). The truth is unless you release yourself, forgive others and bygone the situation you cannot let go. Letting go is an act of moving forward bearing and embracing pain, anger, brokenness and every little emotion that may have

affected you. Think back that sometimes things are beyond your reach, you have to enjoy what you have and be able to free some of it. God said, “All things are passed away and behold all things become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Take action. It is a phenomenon caution for life. Though your dream may shed its light when you wake up in the morning and your action may be infected with the gloom of your dream. You have to take action of what you want because you could never be what you need by remaining what you are. You have to ask God what you do not know and pray what you do not have.

Proverbs 16:3 exhorts, “Ask the Lord to bless your plans and you will be successful in carrying them out.”

Believe that God is able to make things right in His time and all you have to do is trust Him. Remember, your journey would not just stop at the last page of every life`s chapter. It will never stop neither when there is a nightmare, pain, anger, tragedy nor success, happiness and joy otherwise you are lifeless.

Nobody knows the past and what lies in the future except God. In Jeremiah 29:11 He promised, “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Don`t let your plotted life runaway with you or else you would never experience the kind of life God has prepared for you.

Chill but don`t freeze. Life is more dreaded, witty, and tricky than what you think, but learn by heart that life is a beautiful journey despite the untold challenges. Bear in mind that sometimes, the best things in life happened unplanned. Lastly, be it known that the real pillar of life is no other than God.

VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 10-12| AUGUST 7-25, 2017

Teves to investigate P770 miscellaneous fee CARYL J. SAPEPE

“THAT’S TOO MUCH expense for the school. I will have that investigated in congress.”

Negros Oriental 3rd District Representative Arnulfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. said he plans to have the collection of miscellaneous fees investigated in congress in his speech during the Donors Day held at the NORSU gymnasium, August 12.

Teves recalled the abolishment of unnecessary collections through Board of Regents (BOR) Resolution No. 48, 49, and 50 approved on March 12, 2015.

“I’ve been campaigning for free education ever since. Bisan dili pa ko congressman, mao naman na akong drive,” he added.

CEA/ from page 1 be, since graduating students are the priority of the college.

On the other hand, university registrar Reymil Cadapan said, “We will no longer offer off sem subjects with the even deficient budget of NORSU for SY 2017-2018.

Please note that source of salaries for part time instructors are from the income from tuition. The same goes for summer classes.”

Meanwhile, NORSU president Joel Limson knows CEA students would be greatly affected and he is still waiting for the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act before he could VP/from page 1 President’s move to take partnerships to hotels for immediate employment particularly to Tourism graduates.

Additionally, Robredo BEFORE/ from page 3 case. Then maybe we just have to suit ourselves. Since ‘we’ don’t even think about

To note, President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, a law providing free tuition for students of 112 state universities and colleges (SUCs) on August 3.

Meanwhile, university president Joel Limson said the free tuition policy is not applicable to the miscellaneous fees.

“If the government can provide all the fees of the students for free, then the idea is well and good,” Limson said.

“The miscellaneous fees are different from tuition fees, because miscellaneous fees are collected for a very specific focus just like TN [student publication]. We cannot use TN’s fund for the development of the university; it is purely spent for the publication,” he

Photo by Ma. Angelica G. Ho

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Congressman Arnulfo Teves Jr. paying a visit during NORSU’s Donor’s Day celebration last August 12, 2017 held at the university gymnasium.

added.

The P770 worth of miscellaneous fees paid by the student per semester include laboratory, library,

cultural, guidance, medical/ dental, student services, facilities maintenance and student government fees for undergraduate courses.

make further actions.

BS Mechanical Engineering student Paolo Ramirez stressed, “Lisod na gani kwaon og six years among kurso, samot og walay off sem. Maluoy unta sila sa mga students sama sa amoa.”

Agreeing with Ramirez, BS Computer Engineering student John Cruz stated, “Supak jud mi kaayo og walaon nila, okay na unta ang free tuition policy pero naa may drawback, disappointing kaayo.”

More so, BS Electrical Engineering student July Narciso said, “Patay na jud mi og samot ani. Dili jud mi mosugot.”

Likewise, a BS Civil Engineering student who refused to mention her name

pointed out, “Okay lang ni siya og kabalo maluoy among mga instructors pero dili man gud. Mangisog pa man gani og daghang mopasar. Sayon ra kaayo nila moingon nga dili magpahagbong, okay man pero magtarong unta sila og tudlo.”

She further said, “Ang uban kay mag-sige ra og rant sa iyang hatred sa millennials, ang uban magpabut-an but-an lang og naay mag-assess gikan sa [Quality Assurance Management Center] QUAMC, ang uban sad panalagsa ra mosulod pero kugihan manghagbong. Diba ang saya sa CEA? Ing-ana lang dagay sila mo-mold og

topnotchers.”

With this, CEA governor Christ Quinicot started a signature campaign to retain the enrollment on off semester and summer classes but he refused to give further statements about this matter.

The NORSUnian (TN) is waiting for the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA) Rose Marie Pinili to comment on this.

As of the press time, she is out of town.

To note, the Retention Policy of NORSU will be strictly implemented specially for students who fail and/or drop subjects, according to the university registrar.

told Norsunians being a student of the only state university in the province is a privilege given by the government.

“Sana po hindi natin

sayangin ang edukasyon, hindi lang sa pag-aaral nang maayos but to take it forward, at kung paano natin maisusukli sa lipunan,” she added.

Lastly, Robredo

commended NORSU’s core courses namely engineering, agriculture, and fisheries saying these are the courses the government needs to give importance to.

how the environment would in the school, and even in the place our feet on disgusting react to the guiltless and community, then let’s just land before touching the improper waste management face the fact that we need to sky.

In the previous issue of TN, (Volume XXXV, Issue No. 6-7), “Pharma, Nursing, Psych studes prime for career” in paragraph 2 of page 5, the phrase is supposed to be “a total of 22 sophomore Nursing and 128 junior Pharmacy students” and not “a total of 22 junior Nursing and 128 junior Pharmacy students.” We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.

Accordingly following the student journalism parlance and in alignment with our readers’ suggestion let us continue to constructively move forward. For comments, e-mail us at thenorsunianpub@gmail.com.

Photo by Ma. Angelica G. Ho

ERRATUM

OUR DEPEEST GRATITUDE. Embraced with the solemnity, students light their candles and sing a song to thank their donors for supporting their studies and academic endeavors.

FEATURES Baby Steps

Story by Zero

Personalities in Uni FRANCESCA NICOLE E. DIVINAGRACIA

Uni is a prefix which means one. This does not refer to a single person nor building, but to the entirety of the students, faculty, and staff. If this is the case, then being in a university becomes an avenue for one to belong in a new kind of biodiversity.

Before entering a known as, “The Class The Chief around, we still have our own university, you may Clown.” They love They are the leaders way in dealing with them. This have wondered attention and who will lead continuously. will somehow help you build about the new their primary Everyone looks up to them your intimate relation with faces that goal is to since they are the well-versed your friends atnd people on you would m a k e students of the campus. They campus. soon meet. o t h e r s usually have the ability to Peering into a The main laugh. But catch the listeners’ attention kaleidoscope of people, we p r i o r i t y, in the way they speak and cannot escape from these of course, interact with others. personalities. Dealing with is to study sometimes, The Silencer a bunch of people in the and graduate, these people This does not refer to a campus may help you in but a little e n t e r t a i n device used for guns nor a your college years since they socialization may other to put DOTA 2 character but to those are the spice that puts your lighten up your up a happy people who usually sit down life in colors. It may seem college worries. This is the time façade. and stay quiet in the corner hard dealing with them, but when you will be able to meet The Upright of the classroom. They can be as what Justin Bieber said on different people varying in race, These people are seen alone because they dislike one of his songs, “it sure is language, belief and personality. those who act like the huge crowds. They enjoy their worth a try.”

You somehow have that older brother or sister in own company and always have eagerness to know people. the group. This kind of that “me time.”

But in doing so, the challenge personality sometimes These is to be able to grasp their doesn’t understand social personalities personalities. Here are some cues and sarcasm. They are sum up how that you may want to know typically laid back and easy- to deal with from my readings: going. them. Other The Bully The Motivated way Bullies are often insecure These people can easily people who prey on weaker cope up with any situation and individuals. They always make are always eager to learn. They your day a little gloomy which are the hardworking fellows is why you tend avoid this kind with their goals. This is the of personality. reason why procrastination The Joker has never been there in their The joker is otherwise vocabulary since then.

CAMPUS IMAGE

Photo by Ma. Angelica G. Ho

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CAMPUS IMAGE IRISH MAE S. CUARESMA

“Makahuman ko og school ug makatabang sa family,” she told herself upon recalling her unfortunate memories during her elementary and high school years. She promised to herself that she would uplift her family from the depths of misfortune.

Valerie Toyogan, was born in Cebu City on December 8, 1996. She is the second child in the family and has experienced the cruelty and demands of life.

Her parents are Teofanes Toyogan, a plant-trimmer and Heidee Toyogan, a doorto-door vendor.

At the young age of eight, Valerie and her brother help their parents by collecting and selling recyclable materials along the street

in order to provide a meal for the family. Right after graduation at Sibulan Night High School, she decided to find a job in Cebu City with the help of her cousin at the age of 17 to financially support her family. Although her mother disagreed, Valerie insisted.

She started working at Parlor Hair Station Salon in Tabunok, Cebu City.

After a month of working there, Valerie went home to celebrate her birthday with her family and decided not to return since she did not have money anymore.

Valerie’s job hunting did not end there. She wanted to help sustain their needs, so she worked as a saleslady at Unitop for three months

We’re on a crossroad of two different paths— one is where we forget about each other and second is where we can still be good friends right after.

It took me a while to decide. I would’ve gone down the path which was made for both of us, but you went ahead on a path not meant for me. Now, what should I do?

Should I wait for you to come back? But you didn’t even throw a glance, not once. You left without saying goodbye. You let go of my hand just like that. I was left paralyzed because I didn’t expect you to leave.

I’ve been like this for a while— lying to myself and saying I’m okay. But now? I realized that I also need to move on, not because I don’t love you anymore but because there are people who love me more than I love myself and they deserve to see a better me, not a bitter me.

My life is not mine alone. I have people who are waiting for me to finish my studies, for me to live my life to the fullest. I’ve disappointed them too much. I know this now.

You were a part of my life, but you are not my life. You are just one of the many things that served a purpose for me to grow and learn. Though every inch of me swells and aches, I’ve learned my lesson and I’m glad I did.

I know now that not everyone would be sincere enough to say that they love you, and not every person who makes you feel loved, is genuine. Actions lie as much as words do, actions can be faked too.

Now, I know that sincerity is not something we can hear or feel. It is something that we observe, and an illusion that we long to see. I haven’t seen much of it in my life, so I grabbed a hold on anything that resembled it. But it was also fake.

I’m not bitter, and I don’t feel bad. I’m thankful. I thank you for showing me a one-sided love, for shattering the illusion that I had about friendship, and for breaking my hopeless dreams.

Now, I know that not all once-upon-a-times end in happilyever-after, and that not-all-happy beginnings have happy endings.

I know. I’m not stupid.

I just can’t help it because even though you made me feel so low, I can’t deny the fact that I loved you but I’ve had enough.

How could you act like that? I tried to confront you but that was all you had to say. I patiently waited for another word, but I’m glad you didn’t. If you did, I might have listened to whatever reasons you made up and I would’ve believed it.

And here I am still recovering from the damage you have caused. I don’t know if I could ever trust anyone ever again.

But I am now happy, knowing that I am not hurting anyone or destroying a relationship.

I’ve been away for some time now, mainly searching for myself. It may take time to feel like my old self again, but I’ll get there somehow.

With that, I’ll rest my case here. If one day our paths should cross, I hope we would both smile at the memories. The memories will keep me company in my journey as I take these baby steps towards wherever my path may lead.

Zero is an education student who somebody used to know. and Trader’s Lucky Mart for five months. Then, she went back to Cebu City and became a sales promodizer in Purefoods Tender Juicy Hotdog for six months.

When she felt like she was getting used to working and earning for a living, the thought of going back to college came to her as if she never forgot about it.

She, then, decided to enroll in college but her savings couldn’t suffice, so she applied for scholarships in different universities. Unfortunately, the miscellaneous fees were too much for her.

Valerie believes that the cure of poverty is education. She never gave up in finding ways to study in college. She inquired

and passed requirements for a scholarship without hesitation, now making her a Degamo scholar. She is now a first year student taking up Bachelor of Arts, major in Generel Curriculum.

She tried looking for a job in various workplaces, but she eventually failed.

Despite her shortcomings, she kept her hopes up. Now, she is a part-time employee at Jollibee CityMall – Dumaguete branch.

Learning from her gigantic tides of misfortune, Valerie is determined to chase her dreams not just for herself but for her family as well. After all, we can reach our aspirations with a little confidence and a strengthened faith.

Illustrated by Claire Francis B. Elum

Illustrated by Jameel E. Daskla and Jessa C. Araneta

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VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 10-12| AUGUST 7-25, 2017

The Environment’s Status: Sewing-Sewi

DONNA T. DARANTINAO

Illustrated by Joleos June S. Vegare

“Hindi na masama ang pag-unlad at malayulayo na rin ang ating nararating. Ngunit masdan mo ang tubig sa dagat dati’y kulay asul ngayo’y naging itim. Ang mga duming ating ikinalat sa hangin sa langit huwag na nating paabutin upang kung tayo’y pumanaw man, sariwang hangin sa langit natin matitikman.”

The quoted line from Asin’s iconic song about the environment entitled, “Masdan Mo Ang Kapaligiran” is probably

familiar to your ears. The superb instrumental music song would make musicians want to learn it and even famous singers would want to interpret it.

But how about learning what the true meaning is? If we read between the lines, we will realize that this 1978 song tells us that ever since time immemorial, the environment has been yearning for care. The children of our children need to see the wonders of nature.

But how will that happen when our environment is in

Gloomy Night Story of Rosa

Illustrated by Claire Francis B. Elum

FEATURES

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‘sewing-sewi’ status?

Mother Nature, how are you?

When all was good and new, nature gave us clean honey and dew. The climate was good enough for living organisms to adapt in and the waters were clear. The vast lands mesmerized eyes and trees filled them. But with the changing of time, minds have changed too. It is true that people seek for new knowledge, but what will the consequences do?

Mining contributes to the economic stability of our nation but what happens

when it is irresponsibly handled? Our mountains corrode and our lands falter.

Our large-scale fishing vessels lessen the effort of our fishermen in their livelihood, but what happens when they are carelessly operated? Our marine biodiversity is the one at stake.

We are free to use air conditioners and vehicles, but with too much usage, the residue harms the environment. Cutting trees is reasonable for furniture, paper, and other needs,

but if deforestation occurs, our forests will become bald heads. It is fine to have garbage as long as it is properly managed, but if not, our country will become a sea of trash.

And do you know what the scary thing is?

Environmental deterioration is slowly happening. Should we act fast or disregard this?

Camp SEWI: Students Environmental Writing Initiative Derived from the Filipino film “Camp Sawi”,

a Filipino movie about girls who all went to a camp in order to move on from their heartbreaks, Camp SEWI was formed. The concept of “hugot” was used to show how mother earth’s heart is breaking as a result of people’s actions.

Camp SEWI selected 15 participants from different colleges and universities within Dumaguete City, who wanted to share their love for the environment through journalism. Four Norsunians, namely Caryl Sapepe, Javan THE ENVIRON.../ to page 10

The room was so silent.

I could hear nothing but the howling wind as the rain battered our window.

The vast clouds hid the moonlight and corrupted the stars from showing up.

I sat alone on an old couch, watching through the window how dark the surroundings are. Heavy drops of rain continued to fall as lightning struck the sky. It scared me. I wanted to sleep but I couldn’t.

No matter how much I tried to close my eyes, the heavy sounds still haunted me. BOOM! BOOM! The crackling sounds of thunder were everywhere. I covered my ears with my hands pressing them so hard but I could still hear that

terrifying sound. I hate that sound!

Plenty of thoughts ran inside my head. I was nervous! Yes, I was very nervous.

BOOM! Lightning struck again and that terrifying sound was everywhere. I was frightened! Yes, I was really frightened.

BOOM! Light’s gone.

Darkness occupied the room, I cannot see anything.

My courage was gone as the lights suddenly vanished.

My heart pounded so fast, I almost felt it in my throat.

I was scared! Yes, I was totally scared! It felt like I heard all the things in heaven and hell. It was a mix of emotions that I could even feel the couch

slowly eating me alive. Oh! I couldn’t breathe, I was helpless.

I immediately stood up and heard someone calling my name. I was lost for a moment, “Who’s that?

Mom… Dad?” I asked but no one answered. I looked around and saw nothing but darkness. Now, I fell into the pits of my doubt and fear.

“Am I hallucinating?” I asked.

“No, you’re not!” said the voices, creeping their way inside my trembling head.

I covered my ears as I felt myself being spun a thousand times, like a spinning wheel. I found myself sitting in the corner

of our house, alone. I am alone, with nobody to lean on.

I closed my eyes and asked myself, “Why would I be afraid of the dark when I know that there will still be light? Why would I be scared of lightning and thunder when they are just flashing lights on the sky?

Why would I be afraid of the night when I know that there is day?”

Yes, why should I? I continued to close my eyes; then the night was peaceful and calm. I listened to all things around me and they sounded like a lullaby in this gloomy night.

The raindrops and sounds of thunder turned into an GLOOMY / to page12

FEATURES

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Life in Opposite Dections Story of Honey

Hard Work towards Triumph and Success NELSON C. TEVES

“For a successful future…” This is something that students always bear in mind in the midst of sacrifices and struggles. This has been the main reason why students keep on striving hard, regardless of the sweat, blood, and tears that have been wasted.

Student life is one of the pain that is not really Sleeping late and rising early Here, they are challenged most memorable moments easy to overcome. If they dawn can become a habit, to initiate alternative actions in a person’s life. It is cannot surpass it, it may and somehow, it doesn’t to provide what is lacking where he or she encounters create a great impact in the seem very nice. even if it causes too much worthwhile experiences, attainment of their personal Accepting work effort and time. Walking a and meets new people who goals. opportunities just to earn number of kilometers has make this stage of life more Go for goals a small amount of money been a part of these alternative meaningful and fulfilling. It The attainment of is common, nowadays.

HARD/ to page 10 is where students realize the student goals requires a Students struggle just to essence of hard work and lot of persistence. Students save a small amount understand what life really should dedicate themselves of money to get all is. for the realization of their the photocopies During this stage, ambition. They should be and reviewers students are harnessed not willing to spend more time in order to only through their cognitive, making assignments while lessen the affective and tactile aspect, patiently accepting the non- f i n a n c i a l but also their flexibility in stop coming of projects. This b u r d e n overcoming challenges and is what we call multi-tasking. of their in adapting changes brought Rain or shine, it doesn’t parents. by this ever dynamic society. matter.

The show must This stage of life is, go on. Day and night, indeed, a memorable one students could only care but it is also the stage less. The work must be where hardships and never- done. Sometimes, they even ending sacrifices take skip a meal for the purpose place. Students encounter of accomplishing tasks.

Photo by Kim Eden Felize Belnas

CAMPUS IMAGE

NARLYN R. MASCARDO

What do you think is the common feeling of a person in the middle of unfortunate events? Well, one must probably be hateful of the world. But we, Filipinos, are best known to place a warm smile on our faces no matter how drastic conditions may turn out to be.

One living example of this is the proclaimed “Sleeping Beauty” in her class, Mary Joy Amper. Who wouldn’t call her that when she sleeps most of the time during discussions?

Probably, she is one of those typical lazybones in class. But is she?

Seeing how she smiles whenever she speaks, you couldn’t say that she is the kind of student who neglects her classes. With her hair tied up in a bun, and blouse paired with jeans and sneakers, one might say that

she is a simple girl trying to surpass the struggles of college life.

She tries to make all odds in college be in her favor because her early years taught her so well. She was still in kindergarten when her parents separated, so she had to live with her mother together with her younger sister, and her two siblings lived with his father.

She felt the emptiness in her heart, longing for a father’s love and desiring to live together with her siblings. What can she do when her parents have already called it quits? But her struggles didn’t stop there.

Her mother died when she was in her fifth grade and God knows it was a very devastating moment in her life. And although the burial of her mother served as the reason for her

Illustrated by Emmanuel D. Manlun-uyan

Illustrated by Jessa C. Araneta and Joleos June S. Vegare

VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 10-12| AUGUST 7-25, 2017

“Sometimes after a rainfall, it burst into patches of bloom.”

It was a great time growing up and learning to deal with different people, but we can’t deny the fact that there are a lot of obstacles along the way.

There were frustrations, fears, and uncertainties. There were hardships and danger. And sometimes, there were people who bring us down and put ourselves below to their level.

But do you know what the best thing about it is? It’s when you fall down for how many times but you still take courage to stand.

It’s great, right? You can now reap the labor of your experiences and sacrifices. Once you did, you will feel better about any circumstances then you became stronger and wiser and can make certain decision.

Real life is very cruel. It gives us something opposite to what we expect. It always surprises us with another turn. It pushes us to the edge but in the end, and it’s worth the try.

So this is what life is all about. You will have difficulties in achieving what you want. You have to exert some degree of effort and make sure to put your best foot forward. Life never fails to give us a choice and that is for us to be better than today.

You might be twisted in a grimace of pain, and be on crossroads that might confuse yourself and bring you down, but remember that you were in a difficult situation and it pushed you out of your comfort zone. Then, you’ve experienced something harder. At that point, you might say that life is difficult. But once you accept and understand it, it will no longer be difficult. You can now endure anything, even more.

Honey is a student from NORSU— Bayawan-Sta. Catalina. to see her older brother after many years, mixed emotions claimed her.

It didn’t take long, she and her brother parted ways again. She moved with her grandmother and continued her studies in high school.

After graduating, another question popped in her head— should she pursue college?

Considering their financial status, she knew her grandmother wouldn’t be able to send her to study in a university. But, she sought ways on how to support herself, and she succeeded as one of the scholars of the City Social Welfare and Development (CSWD).

Being a small town girl in Bindoy, she enrolled in Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) taking up Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, now in her third year. She

is now 19 years old, born on October 25, 1997.

Mary Joy supports herself financially and even gives money to her younger sister in order to ease the burden of her grandmother.

She spends her vacant time washing clothes and she even experienced working in different places. This explains why she feels tired and sleepy in class!

Now, she stays in Boloc-Boloc, Sibulan as a helper. Although she tried looking for better jobs, she failed since she hasn’t finished a degree yet. She promised herself that she would continue her halted search in order to help her grandmother who is suffering from tuberculosis.

“Smile lang jud permi bisag naa’y mga problema sa kinabuhi,” she said, ending her narration with a smile.

Comics by Claire Francis B. Elum

Infographics by Judeel E. Cuevas

Comics by Jameel E. Daksla

Infographics by Javan Lev A. Poblador

Comics by Jonel A. Baligasa

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ENTERTAINMENT VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 10-12| AUGUST 7-25, 2017

9 NEWS 4 Norsunians join Camp SEWI

their applications out of the entries from five major colleges and universities in Dumaguete.

“I never really thought I’d be accepted and when I qualified, I was excited.

I really want to learn and experience new things, and what really made me happy is that Camp SEWI opened our eyes and this made us see how our environment needs help,” Darantinao said.

“As a person who cares deeply for nature, it was a big step forward in equipping me with the necessities to address environmental issues and the climate crisis,” Poblador added.

Camp SEWI, a three-day environmental journalism workshop, is exclusive only to the 15 participating delegates aiming to increase the conversation on environmental issues in the community newspapers by encouraging more coverage of environmental stories.

“This isn’t just a workshop for capacity building; this is a new family and organization pushing forward the call ON GREEN JOURNALISM. 15 student journalists from the five major colleges and universities in Dumaguete City smiles while holding their certificates of to increase the coverage achievement. of environmental news CARYL J. SAPEPE media coverage awareness, Writing Initiative, held 18 to 20.

Sapepe and Larry stories in the community Norsunians at the American Studies The Norsunians, Villarin, were chosen as newspapers,” Val Amiel CENTERED IN four E N V I R O N M E N T A L participated in Camp SEWI: Resource Center in Silliman namely: Donna Darantinao, part of the 15 student Vestil, Camp SEWI Lead Environmental University Library, August Javan Poblador, Caryl journalists sustainability through Students considering 4 NORSUNIAN/ to page12 NORSU/from page 1 portable sepak takraw net office); high bars, low bars and remaining budget. post, portable net post for parallel bars for calisthenics Saga is hopeful they can volleyball, and training boxes (west side of the gym). start the renovation right for plyometric.

Saga said the renovation away to prepare the school Padernal also proposed will be more on floor painting for the hosting of upcoming a building extension for the (rubberized paint) inside the sports activities of the National weight training room (west gym, open court as well as the Philippine Association of State side of the gym); repair of bleachers if the budget can Universities and Colleges basketball protective foams, suffice.

(PASUC). rings, and backboards; lights With the visible holes “Wala mi guarantee replacement at the open court; of the University Sports and nga ma-on time for PASUC mezzanine floor for equipment Cultural Complex roof, he said but we will do our best,” he storage (below the sports they will fix it if there is still a said.

Advocate promotes environmental protection, preservation

Environmental issues are complex, expert says DONNA T. DARANTINAO

KENNESAW STATE UNIVERSITY professor Elizabeth Giddens 'skyped' her way to connect with 15 chosen environmental journalists for CAMP SEWI: Students Writing Environmental Initiative on August 18, Saturday.

“Environmental issues are complex,” Giddens said, the reason why writing about it should be more on illustrating and showing the readers the reality of what we write.

Despite the 12-hour difference, she managed to go on with her talk, entitled: “Attracting the Leery and Weary to Environmental Stories,” focusing on

how to make people read environmental stories with interest.

Giddens elaborated the essence of considering enlightened anthropocentrism – being obligated to the environment because it concerns human beings, as well.

“We are all preoccupied,” she said, which is why before anything else, we should consider our readers who change their minds depending to their openness.

“After knowing our audience, we should write something accessible to them and something relevant to the happenings of today, especially when it comes to the environment,” she added.

During the session, Giddens emphasized the need for people to know why they should be concerned on a certain environmental issue.

“We should attract the readers by illustrating the environmental issues not necessarily by actually creating a sketch or drawing, but by the usage of words,” she pointed out. “More than anything else, we should know the story is everything which is why we have to place all the facts and sources for the readers to grasp and think of.”

After a series of questions, she gave a tip for beginners as a conclusion to her session: “Think of simple and small issues first.

Get it published and let people do something with it.”

Photo courtesy of Camp SEWI Facebook page

Photo courtesy of Camp SEWI Facebook page

VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 10-12| AUGUST 7-25, 2017

COLLECTIVE EFFORT. Miss Zephanie Repollo speaks on environmental sustainability during the Camp SEWI. CARYL J. SAPEPE

“I DON’T THINK I can change the world in my life time, but I want you to know that what we are doing now will contribute to that vision.”

Thus was the statement of Zephanie Repollo, climate justice program associate of Ibon International in her speech during Camp SEWI: Students Environmental Writing Initiative, an

environmental journalism workshop held at the American Studies Resource Center, Silliman University Library on August 19.

Repollo provided a one-hour lecture on environmental justice to the 15 aspiring environmental journalists from five major colleges and universities in Dumaguete City, aiming for environmental sustainability through media coverage awareness.

“It is important to

write. It is important to amplify the voices of the marginalized communities and bring it to the national and international audience,” she said.

During her talk, she featured local tourist spot attractions including Mount Talinis, Balanan Lake, and Apo Island in Negros Oriental.

“There are a lot of endemic species that can be found only in the ADVOCATE/ to page11

NEWS

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VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 10-12| AUGUST 7-25, 2017

USMO clarifies Dress Code Policy

IMPROVEMENT FOR ACCREDITATION. Norsunians from Mabinay making use of their library.

Mabinay Campus prepares for library revisit CLIFFINGEN T. AMANTE

AIMING TO PASS the Level 1 accreditation, NORSU Mabinay Campus prepared for the requirements and necessary enhancement of the Library for the revisit on August 2125.

With the short time given to them, faculty, staff and students worked together to accomplish the necessary documents needed for said accreditation.

“We are blessed that there is an accreditation because it is one way of enhancing the library

services to better serve its clients. It would be good if there is accreditation every year so that students would always see something new in the campus,” Maritess Damian, Assistant Librarian said.

She further said that improvement is fast when there is incoming accreditation since procurement is also fast in order to comply with the requirements of accrediting agencies.

Kristine Mae Borganio, a Science instructor said, “I got the feeling that we will pass.”

She added, “Through the accreditation, we gradually feel that educational system of NORSU-Mabinay is transforming. And it is now up to achieve greater heights.”

Moreover, a BSHM instructor Divina Bulay expressed, “I feel stressed, happy, excited, mix emotions.

Accreditation for me is one way of sharing skills and knowledge in documents preparation. It is also a way of building good relation with colleagues.”

BSBA adviser Gerald Ubag and BSCS adviser Marlon Dagunan mentioned that the preparation so far is

good and the administration is very supportive.

On the other hand, Nikko Acibes, an Education student said “Kapoy pero estudyante man ko sa NORSU, naa koy initiative nga mutabang because I’m part of this institution”, Finally, Charlton Raga, the Librarian of NORSUSiaton who serves as the main guide in the preparation expressed, “Kapoy na, walay tulog but may energy pa rin for NORSU. For me 100% makapasar ang Library because naay dedication and commitment ang mga tawong gatrabaho.”

because they know that these are just ingredients essential in cooking a better future. They always remain determined for they know that the brightness of the sun will soon rise after the darkness of the night.

All they have to do is to

stay firm like a rock standing squarely in the middle of a ranging current. They should learn to combat and surpass all these challenges.

Achieving dreams is indeed a painful process but with hard work, strong

determination and faith in God, nothing can hinder you in reaching for your goals. Nothing can stop you in achieving the success and the triumph that you desire.

Just remember to always stay strong.

HARD/from page 7

ways to save money and use it for more important things.

This practice has been taken as a physical exercise even though sometimes, it becomes tiring.

Never give up Despite all of these, students stay resilient and courageous

AFTER HEARING SEVERAL complaints from Norsunians due to inconsistency of its implementation, University Security Management Office (USMO) director Rosalinda Abellon clarifies the Dress Code Policy.

“We are always in the hotline. Students are thinking nga kami ang kontrabida,” Abellon said concer-ning to the complaints of students.

With several instances that students are blocked by the security guards upon entering the school premises due to defiance of the Dress Code Policy, Abellon said, “Our hearts are always with the students, kanang maghilak na kay naay mga major exams.”

For them to avoid conflicts with the security guards and personnel,

Abellon said that students are not allowed to wear the following: slippers, shorts or any kind of shorts (except for P.E. classes), tattered pants or clothes, earrings (for male students), sleeveless shirts, mini-skirts, and blouses with plunging necklines, and belts with deadly weapons or blades.

“They are not consistent in implementing the dress code,” Clarissa Amada, a sophomore Education student said.

Meanwhile, Maria Teresa Tubilla, a junior Education student shared her experience with the implementation of the policy, “Katong akong karsones nga tattered two years nako tong gisuotsuot, karon pakong nga third year usa pako wala pasudla.”

“Usahay mo-strikto sila, usahay dili. Murag USMO/ to page12

THE EVIRON/from page 6

Lev Poblador, Larry Villarin, and Donna Darantinao got qualified to participate the three-day workshop, held last August 18-21, at the American Studies Resource Center, Silliman Library.

When asked why he formed the camp, Val Amiel Vestil, Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Spring Academic Fellow and Camp SEWI’s founder stated, “We need to act fast. Temperatures are rising. Ecosystems are being threatened. There’s no denying the fact the Philippines is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change.”

“We need to engage ourselves in a conversation,” Vestil added. “We need to

participate and get involved in ways we are capable of. That is my hugot. That is why I created Camp SEWI, primarily as a platform to increase environmental news coverage in community newspapers and other multimedia.”

Going back to the line from the song aforementioned, it is not bad to become progressive.

Development is an avenue for us to be internationally renowned and recognized, but let us fall in deep thoughts. Let us think of the reason why we should take care of the environment. If you refuse, then you may probably bat an eyelash despite Mother Nature’s heartbreaks and hugots.

Guihulngan Campus CSIT studes hold SEO seminar-workshop holds Himamat 2017 DONNA T. DARANTINAO

John Carlo R. Perez

HIMAMAT 2017 WAS the official catchphrase for this year’s acquaintance party held at NORSU Guihulngan Campus gymnasium, August 30.

The highlights of the said activity were the Collegiate Dance Battle, Acoustic Battle, Lip Sync Battle, and Mister and Miss Himamat 2017.

All colleges prepared for their presentations in different categories excluding the Mr. and Miss Himamat 2017, as it was impromptu.

The students from College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) won Collegiate Dance Battle, showing their best concept.

The College of Education (CED) contenders for the Acoustic Battle defeated all the contestants as they were able to gain victory.

The College of Business Administration (CBA) participants for the Lip Sync Battle impressed the judges with their amazing talents which gave them the spotlight to beat the six other contenders.

Jimuel Angel from College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) and Charlene Cantila from the Senior High School (SHS) were crowned Mr. and Ms. Himamat 2017.

The program ended with a Foam Party participated in by the students of NORSU Guihulngan Campus.

TO AID ASPIRING developers in learning new strategies, the Computer Science and Information Technology (CSIT) students conducted the Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Seminar Workshop at the College of Nursing, Pharmacy, and Allied Health Sciences-Audio Visual Room (CNPAHS-AVR), August 24.

Guest speaker Russell Roy Acedillo mentioned the importance of the workshop which is to help the CSIT students gain new knowledge and strategies which could be used for future purposes.

Acedillo explained SEO is important since it is responsible for a website to appear high on the on the list of results returned

ONE AIM. Russell Roy Acedillo (center) serves as the guest speaker during the seminar conducted by the CSIT students, as he explains the importance of SEO in gaining new knowledge and strategies which could be used for future purposes.

by a search engine through maximizing the number of visitors and is very essential for business purposes.

The lead organizer of the event, April Jane

Cañete said, “Interesting siya [seminar] kaayo kay magamit siya namo sa among mga field. Pero mas tsada gud unta kung naa mi sa actual scenario, pero at

Photo by Pamela Louise M. Abrasado

Photo courtesy of The NORSUnian Mabinay

JESYL MAE C. VIDAL

least naa mi’y na-learn.”

Rommel Dayot, a junior Computer Science student stated, “If we want to commercialize our sites, CSIT/ to page 12

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Photo by Pamela Louise M. Abrasado

VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 10-12| AUGUST 7-25, 2017

IMPASSABLE SIDEWALK. Stagnant water along the College of Industrial Technology parking area causing distress to students unable to pass by.

ADVOCATE / from page 9 Philippines, but there are also a lot of species being threatened [by climate change],” she shared.

She believes that climate change is more than an environmental issue— a justice issue in which those who are being greatly affected are the most vulnerable women, men and children around the world

who have done the least to cause it.

“Many of the killings recorded occurred in remote villages, deep in the forest with indigenous communities as part of it,” added Repollo, calling for justice for the victims of environmental-related killings. She urges the public to admit climate change

and be a climate justice champion.

“The government should present a framework of development that reflects people’s aspiration,” she added. “[We need] a transition for a cleaner renewable technology and finance adaptation efforts that would help communities adapt to climate change.”

P82M ST building soon to rise ANGELEAH GRACE J. ACASO

ENVISIONED FOR DEVELOPMENT of school laboratories and classrooms, a 6-storey Science and Technology Center worth P82 million will soon rise at Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) Dumaguete Campus II. According to university

engineer Michael Saga the project proposal was created this school year 2017-2018 planned for laboratories and classrooms that will house the Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology.

Moreover, the Hotel and Restaurant Management will also house the top floor of the said building with shops for enterprises.

He said the first floor will be a commercial area; second and third floor will be classrooms and laboratories; fourth floor will be a conference room, and the fifth and sixth floor will be for hotel, kitchen and restaurant.

Saga said the construction of the building will start in October or November 2017.

Norsunian competes ‘It’s Showtime’s’ Ms Q & A GRETHEL SOFIAH FLORDELIZA

AUGUST 19 — ROLDAN Mahusay, an Agriculture student from Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) BayawanSta. Catalina Campus competed on ABSCBN’s noontime program “It’s Showtime” Miss Q and A. With several auditionees from different places in the Philippines, Mahusay a.k.a Tekla III contended with

pride, bringing the name of NORSU and Bayawan City.

Although Mahusay failed to win the crown, a number of Norsunians commended his striking confidence, wit and showmanship during his performance.

Meanwhile, Mahusay is going back to “It’s Showtime” for the wild card edition.

“This is now my chance to do better and give the best that I can for the second time around,” he said.

Mahusay expressed

gratitude to all his supporters both locally and nationally who believed in him especially to the local organizations of Bayawan City who supported him financially to make his way to the said noontime program.

“To all Bayawanons, NORSUnians and to all my supporters around the globe, please continue supporting me as I once again take my journey as Showtime’s Miss Q and A,” he said.

Close Gate Policy irks NORSU Guihulngan studes JOHN CARLO R. PEREZ

SEVERAL STUDENTS COMPLAINED on the Close Gate Policy implemented by the Student Government (SG) during the Himamat Celebration 2017 at NORSU Guihulngan Campus, August 30.

“Naa jud koy right nga makagawas since I am taking my maintenance [medication] nga kinahanglan imnon nako every after lunch.” German Shadrack Vergara, an

Education student said.

Orlie Pastedio, a Social Science student said, “Gikuhaan man ta nila og katungod nga makagawas og sulod sa eskwelahan, especially kanang 12:00 noon kay tingpauli na siya,” he added, “Dili na cover sa academe.”

SG president Harvey Neil Revelegia said there was a “lack of management of their respective college governors, as they are supposed to initiate a Collegial Lunch or Boodle

Fight.”

“Kung gipahibalo nila daan ilang objectives [para sa acquaintance party], makasabot jud ang mga estudyante,” he furthered.

Due to the students’ oppositions to the policy and the food crisis at the school canteen, the SG allowed them to go to their respective houses during lunch time.

The organizers resumed the program in the afternoon from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. but cancelled the evening events due to some complaints.

be finished by the end of 2017.

Meanwhile, Stephen Leonidas, NIR head Department of Agriculture (DA), proposed to convert the regional office into a satellite office as Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program states Negros Island has the biggest landholdings nationwide.

The island has 89, 794 hectares region-wide, comprising 71, 837 beneficiaries and DA-NIR is targeting to distribute 12, 392 hectares this year.

Other ROs are resorting to return permanent workers to previous deployment and finding ways for Job Order (JO) employees to be absorbed by the ROs of Region 6 and 7, but some of the JO employees will be displaced.

With the revocation of the NIR, basic services will be returned to original ROs like permits, legal documents and government processes.

People of Negros Oriental will have to go to Cebu to process legal matters while people from Occidental will have to travel to Iloilo for same purposes.

EO No. 183 s. 2015 was created “to further accelerate the social and economic development of the cities and municipalities comprising the provinces of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental, and improve the delivery of public services in the aforementioned provinces.”

(With reports from Sunstar Bacolod and Rappler.com)

NIR/ from page 1 priorities,” Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno said in October 2016.

Furthermore, EO No. 38 states, “Regional councils established by EO NO. 183 and regional offices created pursuant to Memorandum Circular No. 81 (s. 2015) are hereby abolished.

All existing personnel of the NIR ROs shall return to their previous units of deployment, or reassigned to other offices within their respective departments/ agencies.”

These offices were given 60 days to finalize the disposition of their operation and liabilities; however, Livino Duran, NIR Head of Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), proposed to extend the 60-day period due to existing activities that could only

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VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 10-12| AUGUST 7-25, 2017

Photo courtesy of The NORSUnian Mabinay

NORSU Mabinay crowns Lakan & Lamkambini ‘17

THE NEWLY CROWNED. Lakambini’s smile as her father kissed on her cheeks and Mr. Lakan’s expression as his adviser give him his token and sash.

CLIFFINGEN T. AMANTE

GILBERT SANTIAGO AND Grace Alpuerto were crowned as Lakan and Lakambini 2017 of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) Mabinay Campus at the Covered Court on August 31.

Santiago is a Criminology student, while Alpuerto is a Secondary Education student.

“Walay excitement during the preparation of the upcoming event, but I was shocked pagkadungog nako sa ako ngalan nga na declare as the Lakan 2017 of NORSUMabinay,” Santiago said.

Siaton Campus names CED,

BSBA Mr & Ms NORSU-SC ‘17

NORSU SIATON CAMPUS was graced with wit and beauty with the Mister and Miss NORSU-SC 2017 as one of the highlights of its “Buwan ng Wika” celebration at the campus ground, August 31.

Present on the event were the first awarded “Ms. Tamsy 2017” and first and second runners up who welcomed the visitors during the production number; Deans, faculty and staff, led by the campus administrator, Marilyn Macapangal, Rowel Mira of DYRA94.5 FM, Siaton and Averill D. Macatiguib of Like Radio Station.

The College of Education (CEd) was represented by Rosielyn Magsigay and Jommel Ator; Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management (BSHM) was represented by Melanie Casido and Jorie Manapol; College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) was represented by Mary Jane Quisel and Jecris Gajelomo; Bachelor of Science and Business Administration (BSBA) was represented by Lei Angelica Quinicot and Patrick Amante, and College

of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE) was represented

by Evelyn Quisay and Kurt Lynber Badajos.

Candidates competed in six segments: Production Number, Course Uniform, Swimwear, Talent, Formal Wear and Question and Answer.

For the minor awards: “Most Transformed” awarded to Mr. and Ms. CAS; “Mr. and Ms. Professionalism” was given to Mr. BSBA and Ms. CED; “Best in Production Number,” “Best in Swimwear,” “Best in Talent,” “Best in Formal Wear” and “Best Speaker” were garnered by Mr. CEd and Ms. BSBA; “People’s Choice” award went to Mr. and Ms. CEd. Down to the final three, Mr. BSHM and Ms. CAS garnered second runners up, Mr. BSBA and Ms. CEd bagged the first runners up and proclaimed Mr. and Ms. NORSU-SC 2017 were Mr. CEd and Ms. BSBA, respectively.

The event was made possible

by Jemby Ib-ib, president of Student Government (SG). TN Siaton

He added, “I am thankful to those people behind all of my achievements that night my parents, friends, and Criminology family including my advisers for the support.

I could not have the rewards without their help.”

Aside from the major award, Santiago also garnered

different minor awards such as “Best in Talent,” “Best in Swimwear,” “Best in Formal Wear” and “Mr. Professionalism,” while Alpuerto grabbed the “Best in Speaker” award.

Alpuerto said, “I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my family and friends for

their unending support…To my CED family and instructors, thank you for choosing me to represent the college of “mighty teachers” and for encouraging me to pursue the competition and believe that I can.”

The pageant started at 7:30 p.m. and lasted ‘til past 11:00 p.m.

Gandang Univ 2017 showcases beauty, intelligence & showmanship NELSON C. TEVES JR.

IN LINE WITH the celebration of “Buwan ng Wika” 2017, NORSU Bayawan- Sta. Catalina Campus held the Gandang University competition that showcased beauty, intelligence and showmanship at the gymnasium, August 25.

Seven candidates from the different colleges and programs participated in the competition, representing College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), College of Criminal USMO / from page 10 magadepende ra sa mood sa guard.” Jeson Cabañero, a junior BS Information Technology student said.

With this, Abellon suggested that the students GLOOMY / from page 6 orchestra to my ears.

Then I realized, there was nothing to worry about. In life, we have our own doubts and fears, but what matters most is

Justice Education (CCJE), College of Industrial Technology (CIT), College of Business Administration (CBA), College of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (CAFF), College of Education (CEd) and National Service Training Program (NSTP).

Giving emphasis to the occasion’s theme, “Filipino: Wikang Mapagbago,” each candidate wore elegant garments depicting Filipino culture and heritage in their production number, then followed by the talent portion, and the last segment of the pageant

was the final look which includes the question and answer portion.

After the results were tabulated, the award for “Best in Festival Costume” went to CIT; “Best in Talent” to CCJE; “Best in Filipiniana Attire” to CAS, and “Best Speaker” to NSTP. Meanwhile, the special award “Darling of the Crowd,” went to CAFF. For the major awards, the candidate from CCJE garnered the 2nd place; NSTP was first runner up, and CEd was champion of the NORSU-BSC Gandang University 2017.

4 NORSUNIAN/ from page 9 Initiator said.

Among the speakers who promoted environmental sustainability through green journalism were Elizabeth Giddens, English professor of Kennesaw State University; Dave Gumban Albao, Executive Director of the Philippine Reef and Rainforest Conservation Foundation; Judy Flores Partlow, Bureau Chief of Philippine National Agency; Zephanie Repollo, Climate Justice Program Associate of Ibon International; Alex Rey Pal, Publisher of MetroPost Dumagute; and Dr. Helconida Calumpong, Director of Institute of Environmental and Marine Sciences in Silliman University.

After two days of intensive talks and workshop sessions on green journalism, the delegates were divided into three groups for a fieldwork around Dumaguete to look for environmental stories.

Other participating schools aside from Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) were Silliman University (SU), Saint Paul University-Dumaguete (SPUD), Foundation University (FU) and Metro Dumaguete College (MDC).

Camp SEWI was founded by Vestil as a fellow for civic engagement to the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative (YSEALI) Spring Academic Fellowships for 2017 at Kennesaw State University in Georgia, United States of America.

CCJE/ from page 1 in Dumaguete Campus II. “Kuyaw man kaayo og sa gawas kay daghan man kaayong students. Pwede pud og open pero dili conducive kay exposed ra kaayo, so it has to be placed underground.”

Saga hopes for the project to be realized next school year. It is still subject for bidding, and there are still a lot of pending infrastructure projects.

CSIT/ from page 10 especially kay karon naa mi project nga mag-gama og website, magamit jud kaayo ang SEO.” The seminar workshop is a requirement for their subject CSC 139 (Seminars and Fieldtrips) preparing the students for their chosen fields.

INCONSISTENCY / from page 3 together with the Federation Even sinners get second university who are desperate for of Student Government chances. So why can’t we, another shot in special classes, (FSG) can write a letter to the beloved students of this cannot have second chances? the university president to request a change in the Mula sa bumubuo ng The NORSUnian: Taos -puso Dress Code Policy. po kaming nagpapasalamat kina G. Jazzie Ocao ng Departamento ng Mass Communication at Bb. Kate May how we conquer them. Do not Basa ng Departamento ng Filipino sa tulong at gabay nila let them bring you down. upang maging mas presentable at kaaya-ayang basahin Rosa is a student from ang mga artikulong nakapaloob sa dalawang isyu (Tomo NORSU— Bayawan-Sta. XXXV, bilang 8 at 9).

Catalina.