WE WRITE FOR YOU. WE FIGHT FOR YOU.
WE WRITE FOR YOU. WE FIGHT FOR YOU. VOL XXXIV ISSUE NO 12-13 SEPTEMBER 5-18, 2016
CONNECTING TO U-WIFI. Christian Even Santillan, a senior Bachelor of Secondary Education student, together with his coursemates are seen connecting with the restored university Wi-fi at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) stairway as some other Norsunians check online updates and researches (Photo by Jay Mark T. Umbac).
No collection policy Up for dictated exams? Syriyl d. Mapili
Due to complaints raised by some students regarding the collection of payments for test papers during examinations, instructors reciprocated a solution of delivering spoken exam questions which a lot of Norsunians find undue. Wi t h t h e f r e q u e n t reiteration of the Board of Regents (BOR) Resolutions prohibiting any kind of collection within the university, the issue about payments of examination sheets has been an issue troubling students and the teaching faculty. Remart Dadan, Student G ove r n m e nt pre s i d e nt , explains the issue rooted from a complaint raised in the social media site, Facebook, regarding
some instructors collecting payment for test papers. To avoid disobeying the policy, instructors dictated test questions instead of providing test papers. Gil Marie Collados, BS in Midwifery, stressed, “Dili gyud okay kay tanan gyud affected… midterm namo dayon 27 items gi-oral, unya baling lisoda gyud kay major namo sa Midwifery.” Jill Ann Dela Pena, BS in Nursing, counters, “Dili gyud okay kay bali gyud lisoda, niingon among instructor sa major na if i-oral daw kay pagmuhatag silag question kay 1 minute ray ihatag.” Jasper Madrid Cejudo, BS in Education major in TLE, disputes, “Pag i-dictate ra kay more na mag-cramming ang NO/to page 6
NORSU hosts indigenous Visayan Dances Workshops
Negros Oriental State University hosted a 3-day training-workshop for the Visayan ethnic dances in the national Philippine Association of State Universities and Colleges (PASUC) Culture and Arts Competition, Aug. 17-19. Some 200 participants started to arrive from different regions in the country. In welcoming the guests, Dr. Noel Yasi, Vice President for Administration, Planning and Development, said that NORSU has a great appreciation of dances; it is NORSU’s pride to showcase the Visayan ethnic dances that reveal our unity and nationalism, he stated. NORSU President Dr.
Joel Limson said, “we give our utmost support for this national gathering as well as preserve and promote our culture.” Dr. Helbert Glenn Reyes, executive director of PASUC, introduced the guests and participants from different regions. The state university’s K a b i l i n D a n c e Tr o u p e performed Palihi (thanksgiving NORSU/to page 7
policy gone too far? the builder’s block
opinion|see page 2
CICTSO boosts Wi-Fi to 50Mbps Larry V. Villarin
Norsunians can now enjoy faster internet connection using the university Wireless Fidelity (Wi-Fi) access points in Dumaguete City Main Campus 1 after Computer and Information Communication Technology System Office (CICTSO) recently restored its technology. D i r e c t o r o f CIC T SO Benjamin Alejado Jr. revealed they have restored and boosted the internet’s
bandwidth from 40Mbps to 50Mbps so students can access faster Wi-Fi connection within a 100-meter distance on access points located in the open court and library. To access the said connection, Norsunians can visit the CICTSO near the library entrance and log their individual ID numbers to serve as usernames. According to IT staff Jose Clarion Jr, there would be more security with the use of a username and password. Clarion added it would
give them an easy detection of the user compared to proxy address, as some students do not know how to put the proxy which caused confusions. Moreover, Alejado explained there are no restricted websites for students who wish to access the connections for research purposes, however, the CICTSO restricted access to offices for them not to download movies, music and access porn sites. With regard to the
budget of the new restored Wi-Fi points, Alejado said, “Wala mi gipagawas na budget ani. Ang amo lang, gi-restore lang namo siya, gi-enhance lang namo ang technology…we used our initiative.” The CICTSO plans to install more Wi-Fi access points in the different colleges of Dumaguete City MC 1 and extend the connection to Bajumpandan campus, citing a bigger budget requirement for a purchase request, to make CICTSO/to page 6
Norsunians assess Green SONA Kenneth Carlorio Surilla
The Green State of the Nature Assessment (Green SONA) 2016 held in Silliman University (SU) on August 9 raised mixed comments and reactions from participating Norsunians on programs, researches, and project proposals aligned with President Rodrigo Duterte’s administration. Discussions during the Green SONA centered on the state of carbon sinks, their effect to climate change, and presentation of projected programs on effective sustainable
development. Esteemed members of NonGovernment Organizations (NGOs) like Energy Development Corporation, Haribon Foundation, Action Group on Erosion, Technology and Concentration (ETC), the presidential cabinet, and the provincial government spearheaded the Green SONA. Negros Oriental St ate Universit y ( N ORSU ) – Dumaguete City Physics and Geology Department Head Delilah Ablong encouraged the province to adopt
University diary
A DAUGHTER’S DESIRE FEATURE|see page 5
renewable energy to save natural resources and focus more in the creation of a new environment as a counter to the decreasing biodiversity in the country. Together with national and local media men were NORSU student leaders and agriculture students who cited issues pertaining to strict implementation and agro development. “I want him (Duterte) to give full attention to irrigation, soil-testing farm inputs,” third year Agriculture student Arnie Basay said. Basay furthered how organic farming, livelihood programs for farmers, and reforestation
are of equal importance in the economic development of the country. A n ot h e r Ag r i c u ltu re student, Bella Bench Orga, suggested there should be strict enforcement of law regarding fishermen who use chemicals and dynamite fishing. NORSU biology student Rico Tomimbang Jr. expressed his disappointment because not all expected cabinet members were present. According to Tomimbang Jr., the proposed programs were pleasing but will only be successful if enforced accordingly.
FSG PRESIDENT... University POLL
BACKPAGE|see page 8
NORSUNIANS/to page 6
OPINION
VOL XXXIV ISSUE NO 12-13 SEPTEMBER 5-18, 2016
EDITORIAL
Meddling with the greater good
Raya Mariel Cadiz
Aft e r a l m o s t 2 3 years of being held in Marcos Museum and Mausoleum, Ilocos Norte, President Rodrigo Duterte favors the burial of Former President Ferdinand Marcos at Libingan ng mga Bayani(LmB) and this makes different opinions from Norsunians. Opposing to Pres. Digong’s decision, third year biology student Edmar Detecio perceives it as an insult for the “real” heroes
who were buried in LmB. “Dili jud basis nga namatay siya as soldier and president. Dako pud biya kaayo siya og problem gibilin sa Philippines, considering nga dako kaayo og utang nga gibayran ang Philippines gikan pa sa iyang admin,” he explained. Luzlyn Ontolan, second year civil engineering student, did not consider Marcos as a “hero” on his declaration of martial law, and that, as convinced by the stories of her grandmother that there
was no fair treatment during this time and there were a number of victims who were detained and abused on their fight for freedom. However, on the president’s decision, she said, “wala naman pud tay mahimo kay gi-approve na ni Duterte, sa ako lang, di ko ganahan”. On the other hand, Janice Jane Vendiola, second year BS Hospitality Management student, agrees the burial of Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. She stated,
“Mosugot ko nga malubong siya didto kay nakatabang man japon siya sa atong nasod. Barato man gani daw ang baligya sauna.” She believed that it was the military’s abuse of power and Marcos did not do wrong during his dictatorship. Agreeing with the idea, third year chemistry student Edzelle Mae Dayot stated Marcos should be buried in LmB to honor him as a former president of the Philippines. “Sa utang sa Pilipinas sa world bank, motuo ko nga
Mary Joy C. Llorente
Environmental hoaxes are hoaxes You have probably heard or read about the conspiracy theories claiming that scientists and environmentalist groups joined forces in a rip-off to scare people about global warming. According to the conspiracy, there is no accumulation of carbon dioxide and if there is such any, it has no impact because the planet is actually getting colder; and if the climate is really changing, human activities have nothing to do with it. More likely, the folks who blasted this information are
not living on planet Earth. Looking back, 2014 was previously recorded as the warmest year ever, then 2015, then 2016. Every year is the hottest year it has ever been. Polar caps are melting and water level is rising. Some of us might be doing something but scientists are telling that, under current circumstances, we’re not doing nearly enough. Instead, we endanger the entire planet. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Policy gone too far? Last Friday afternoon, I was sitting at the amphitheatre together with my friends when a friend of my friend suddenly approached us and started a chitchat. She shared to us how she felt upset about having a low grade during an exam because their teacher dictated their examination problems and read it once. Because her teacher does not want to put herself at stake if
she disobeys the “No Collection Policy” promulgated by the Board of Regents of NORSU, her teacher dictated the questions during their exam. Accordingly, she shared how giving written examinations imply the responsibility of students to pay for an amount of P2 due for the production of photocopies the teacher cannot shoulder. Hearing her statements and the absurd application of the policy opened my mind and
(NASA) recently released more data on climate science disproving the conspiracy theory. In an article published by The Guardian, NASA said that maintaining temperature below the 1.5 degrees’ Celsius guardrail requires significant and very rapid cuts in carbon dioxide emissions or co-ordinated geoengineering. However, we are not yet even making emission cuts commensurate with keeping warming below 2 degrees Celsius. These scientists are trying to say the Earth is actually warming a lot quicker than we have anticipated and we have to do something drastic right now or else, we are going to suffer serious consequences. It was also explained on the article that with the polar ice caps melting, the sea water level can rise for about 70ft and could lead to what is known as the Earth’s 6th mass extinction of animal species. And there are already some island countries that are expected to be under water in the near decades and it keeps getting worse and worse. Today, Filipinos
are facing different issues: human rights issues, corruption, political conflicts, drugs, and terrorist attacks. We are giving too much attention on these problems while on the other hand, we have this massive extinction of animals and it is devastatingly proved by almost every scientist in the world. These extreme weather conditions we are experiencing now and the natural calamities are already terrible as they are. And if we won’t end up living under water in the years to come, we better have to worry about the deficiency of resources because we can’t live in a world that can’t grow plants, vegetables and fruits or agriculture that we need to survive and that can lead to serious war. Climate change is the most real thing there is. It is actually the most dangerous threat we are facing and spreading doubts about climate change is almost literally a crime against humanity. So we have to wake up and do something about it. In the end, it is our race that will be saved.
made me start thinking how it has made a great impact for the past 18 months burdening the whole university especially the students. BOR Resolution No.51, s. of 2015 states, “Resolved, to stop all collections within the whole Negros Oriental State University without prior Board of Regents (BOR) approval effective immediately; resolved further, to disseminate this Board of Regents (BOR) action to all colleges/campuses the soonest possible time.” Based on the aforementioned resolution, who might want to disobey the policy if the price of disobeying can bring great consequences? You might as well not disobey, right? The question, however, is can you just sleep at night or even stay in the four corners of the room, looking and hearing the cries of the students who are suffering from this kind of situation? Is the reason enough to have exams dictated instead of
giving test papers to students? How about those programs that are related to science and mathematics? Can the teacher easily dictate ∫cos2xesin2x dx=? Or a hundred terms, items and questions within an hour? I think it is a waste of time and effort for the teaching personnel and for the students who are well-aware that they are the end-users of these conditions. It is good to have a “No Collection” policy in order to lessen or stop any forms of corruption in this university, however, there must be some consideration or exception in the implementation of this action especially if it benefits the students’ needs and can give prosper to the university. My opinion might not be the same as your opinion. To the person who is reading this article, how and what can you do to help in making this policy a better policy in your own simple way? It is for you to think. Try to ponder.
BINALBAGAN, Negros Occidental—Fighting for press freedom and social change, College Editors Guild of the Philippines – Negros Island Region (CEGP – NIR) held its first student press convention Asdang 2016 on August 21. With the theme, “The Awakening: Challenge the Millennials to Stop Apathy Through Campus Journalism,” the newly founded CEGPNIR Chapter gathered campus journalists from across the island to raise students’ level of awareness on significant issues drifting around the universities in the region. 11 student publications throughout NIR attended the convention, namely The N ORSUn i a n o f N ORSU Main and Mabinay campuses, Tolentine Star of University of
Negros Occidental Recoletos, The Module of University of Negros Occidental Recoletos – College of Engineering, The City Smile of Bacolod City College, The Torch of Philippine Normal University Visayas, and The Eagle of Colegio San Agustin Bacolod. The Northern Forum of Northern Negros State College of Science and Technology Sagay City, The Aquarian of Carlos Hilado Memorial State College Binalbagan, The Philippine Artisan of Technological University of the Philippines Visayas, and The Patrician of Binalbagan Catholic College also participated the said event. The one-day event highlighted Jose Jaime “Nonoy” Espina, Senior Editor of InterAksyon.com, and Ronald Ian Evidente, Kulisang Mayo Uno spokesman, as guest speakers. Espina reviewed the Ethics
of Journalism on Philippine Media to the 62 college campus journalists. “We all know what is right or wrong and all of us [journalists] wants to be right,” he said. He stressed it is the campus journalists’ moral obligation to inform the students on the happenings, may it be either positive or negative. On the other hand, Evidente provided his analysis about President Duterte’s administration and cited, “Change is not about just killing drug personalities” rather it is a more of greater cause to look on the marginalized sector and to do something for them. Chairperson Caryl Sapepe of The NORSUnian and Coordinator Mary Karlyn Subaldo of CEGP – NIR closed the convention challenging the guilders to step outside and realize greater societal problems.
DISAPPOINTING REFRESHMENT. With the recent issue about the inconsistent results of vending machines offering drinks and refreshments, a Norsunian shared how ice water and ants came together for the drink that she paid.
kay daghang activists ang against kay naay ga-suffer before [marial law]. It’s very subjective. If you really count, Marcos had done a lot of things,” he mentioned LRT, MRT, San Juanico Bridge and NAIA as an example of Marcos’ achievements. In a university poll conducted by TN and released on its third issue, 54.4% of Norsunians are in favor, 32.1% disfavored while 7.5% abstained their stand on the burial of former president Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.
PSYCHOLOGICAL APTITUDE. An applicant from NORSU Bayawan - Sta. Catalina campus taking the psychological exam for the position of guest encoder at CARE Center, Dumaguete City Main last September 2.
Lifeel Gleedz G. Raga
FIGHT APATHY. The set of CEGP-NIR leaders with TN correspondent Kenneth Carlorio Surilla(4th from the L) as the CEGP Negros Oriental Officer-in-Charge, in pursuit of fighting apathy among Negrense students through campus press freedom during the recently concluded Asdang 2016 on August 21.
ang mga nisunod na jud na admin ang nakapadako pagayo,” she said. Moreover, Derry Deff Sampang, fourth year Psychology student, expressed, “I agree because it’s really a long time. I think we need to put an end to this. Burying Marcos’ body in LmB doesn’t change the fact that we have undergone martial law before.” He added that activists who disagree with Marcos burial are being subjective, “Kana man gud nga issue
Guest employees take psych exam
NIR holds 1st reg’l CEGP event
Photos by Jay Mark T. Umbac and Ma. Angelica G. Ho
Over the years, the student publication has been playing a major role in the student community in its exercise to democratic right to freedom of expression, of the press and of the people to information of public concern. Aside from curtailing around 26,000 student’s rights through the non-mandatory collection for publication fees, thousand other students from the NORSU external campuses over the province has been suppressed of their right to information due to unheard and unanswered campus press problems. It is evident the administration still has a lot to cope in order to improve the quality of education in the different external campuses— taking into consideration the system of centralized processing. For us to benchmark with other renowned educational institutions, numerous accreditation visits have to be done and accomplished, and keeping the school fragrant to visitors is a priority. With the advantage of having a so-called “active” student publication as an evidence of the school’s credibility and integrity, administrators took the role of filtering publication content which could be a ground for curtailing campus press freedom. This is clearly the case of several The NORSUnian (TN) external student publications. Unfortunately, with the recent involvement of the members of these autonomous external student publications in the national student press arena, it is quite alarming that in the Negros Island Region, NORSU Mabinay and Bayawan-Sta. Catalina campuses are experiencing the most number of student press freedom violations. Some of these cases involve censorship, lack of facilities and support due to the bureaucratic process, and withholding of their individual publication funds; violating the Campus Journalism Act of 1991. While the administration is busy with grooming the image of quality education and meeting the demands to be at par with the global standards, external campuses suffer a lot of issues and pressures vested upon external campus administrators. Norsunians should be given opportunities to grow progressively and become competitive to address the need of sociocommunity involvements. Without seeing the probable result, these campuses will continue to be unheard and be neglected. So if the university has set to “offer opportunities to poor but deserving students,” are the external campuses exempted? Sec 4 and Sec 7, Article III of the 1987 Constitution which uphold both the freedom to express and of the press, and the freedom of the people to information of public concern. Sec 5 Funding of the Student Publication “in no instance shall the school administration concerned withhold the release of funds sourced from the savings of the appropriations of the respective schools and other sources intended for the student publication and shall be released automatically to the student publication concerned.”
NEWS
3 Norsunians speak on Marcos’ burial
VOL XXXIV ISSUE NO 12-13 SEPTEMBER 5-18, 2016
Photo by Neil Ryan Saraña
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Und e r t h e n e w administration, Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) new guest employees under went psychological examination upon application to ensure their psychological aptitude. St ar t i n g May 2 0 1 6 , Human Resource Management Office headed by Dr. Chizanne Sarabia-Ridad conducted psychological exams to guest encoders, guest guards, and other members of the staff for psychological evaluation as part of the employment process. The examination is paralleled to the Civil Service Commission, memorandum circular no. 3 series of 2001 about the revised policies of
merit promotion plan. T h e CARE C e n t e r facilitates the examination with the available exam called 16 PF that measures the personality factors, interests and aptitude of an individual. In an interview, CARE C enter Director Annie Rose Taguba stated, “In all institutions and organizations, once mu-apply ka, you have to undergo psychological tests and for now under staff pa ang mu-undergo and sa teaching, lahi ilang criteria.” Ta g u b a e m p h a s i z e d the tests measure the ability and the ideal personality of the employee to assist in determining the best personenvironment fit when selecting executives and staff. The exam is currently playing a vital role in selecting
and recruiting applicants Taguba shared, “One applicant applied for a guest encoder, he underwent skills test and speed test, a sub-tool for testing. He failed on the speed test so he was not hired.” Meanwhile, Kizzy Ho, a test administrator – guest employee said, “I do agree with the process, on having psychological exam or psychological evaluation w he re i n makabalo ta s a strength, knowledge, skills, and abilities of a certain person.” On the other hand, Dayanara Jai Alpuerto a guest employee for information and support services, said, “Having taken the psychological exam, the applicant will know his/ her weakest or strongest points that will be his/her guide upon working.”
STILL IN PROGRESS. Comfort rooms are still inoperative as September started.
FEATURES
VOL XXXIV ISSUE NO 12-13 SEPTEMBER 5-18, 2016
UNIVERSITY DIARY
UNIVERSITY DIARY
FEATURES
“No one really has an idea. Being part of the campus newspaper might be very bold and impressive, but while buried under naive admiration and stereotype, campus journalists confront strong persecutions—campus press repression.” Driven by the authoritative nature of our education system and commercialization, basic student and campus press rights are taken for granted. Students face a lot of threats such as suit, academic m a l v e r s at i o n o f g r a d e s , and nonstu d e nt - f r i e nd ly treatment from instructors which are existing in state universities such as Negros Oriental State University. Campus journalists always take risks and face dangers as they propagate the truth to the majority.
alternative media, a venue of freedom of expression, and not to ment ion, t he pub’s significance during accreditations. Censorship and maltreatment are also forms o f p e r s e c u t i o n s c a mp u s writer experience. For an instance, a faculty yelling to a correspondent for asking the faculty member’s reason for not participating during the fire drill last July 8. What’s worst, external c ampus publ i c at i ons are i n g r ave pre d i c ame nt as t he y st r ug g le f rom t heir administration’s tight clutch. To note, TN BayawanSta. Catalina had the difficulty in joining the national student press convention in Iloilo City b ecause of the absence of a chaperone. Additionally, their last print release was in 2013 and the copies were even forbidden to be circulated. Meanwhile, TN Mabinay and Bais City experiences deprivation of equipment and facility aside from c e ns orsh ip. “ S a suppl i e s din, hindi kami nakakapagprocure kasi minsan ‘yung gumagawa ng PR [Purchase Request] ay iniinsulto kami, palagi kaming bumabalik pero wala lang sila,” TN Mabinay Editor-in-Chief Macario Kiod said.
Alter-media repression The NORSUnian (TN) — the Official Weekly Student Publication of Negros Oriental State University, toget her wit h University of the Philippine Dilliman a n d B a g u i o’s P h i l i p p i n e Collegian and The Outcrop, r e s p e c t i v e l y, l i k e w i s e , suffers from several forms of repression. In N ORSU , a manifestation of repression is the BOR resolution no. 51, s eries of 2015 w hich stopped the collection of the publication fee. While the publication campaigns to resume the subscription of students for available information, its remaining fund has gone down to P1,685,188.75 as of August 15, 2016, enough The CEGP backing for this year to function as On August 2-6, TN Main,
Bayawan-Sta. Catalina and Mabinay campuses managed to attend the 76 th National Student Press Convention of the College Editors Guild of t he Ph i l ippi ne s — t he oldest, broadest, and only existing alliance of tertiary student publications in the Asia-Pacif ic. TN E ditorin-Chief Francis Ivan Ho shared the severe campus press oppression present in NORSU to which former CEGP president Marc Lino Abila asserted the need to fight back particularly on fund collection. Then, with this pursuit,
CEGP-Negros Island Region was established with TN Feature Editor Caryl Sapepe as the elected NIR chairperson. On August 21, “Asdang 2016” was initiated to convene NIR tertiary publications. CEGPNIR, the newly established guild on August 7, exists to develop connections between student publications and to lead on raising awareness of democratic and nationalistic rights of every student and student writer. With the newly commenced 17 th congress, CE G P h o p e s t h a t t h e amendment refiled by Kabataan Partylist on Campus Journalism Act of 1991 be finally considered as it only gives false hope, being us ed against t he student publications themselves. “What was wrong about CJA of 1991 is that it does not contain a penalty clause. Member publications of the
Guild have been through this in 25 years yet not a s i n g l e p e r s on or s c h o o l administration was penalized for such violations,” Abila said on July 5 in cegp.org. The dissolution of The NORSUni an, if not s topp e d , w i l l on l y l e a d to a severe and alarming disposition of the students to the administration. While TN fights to return the collection of publication fee for the general welfare of the students, it is going to need all the support it c an get, espe cially from Norsunians.
What we casually do Story by Guy Next Door
I cannot just force myself to stop when I am forced to consume this kind of pleasure that I have been used to – a one-sided pleasure that only he could understand. I’m all right with it now. It has been like this already. For the fourth time this year, I received another message from an unknown number. It was a text message from somebody who I knew for a very long time. I knew it. A f t e r a m o nt h a n d t w o w e e k s , h e a s k e d t h e s am e f avor ag ai n – a f avor t h at h a s b e e n chasing my conscience, principles, and personality. Three consecutive messages came thereafter. I was afraid. I was torn. The consequences of not granting his wishes sent shivers to my spine. I wished that I could turn back time, but I couldn’t. I opened my phone again, and saw six unread messages and five missed calls. I had no choice but to meet him. I saw him waving his hand with a grungy smile on his face when I arrived at our meeting place. I knew that he had secured an empty household for both of us. Our conversation would only run for about six sentences. No more intimate exchanges of lines. No more explaining. We went on to the business we were there for. My childhood nightmare flashed right into my subconscious, tightly gripping around my neck. Breathing in what is available for me to breathe is all I could do to survive. I continued doing what I casually do for him. This is the deepest and heaviest secret that I am still carrying around. In just one uncalculated mistake, I could ruin the future that I am hoping to reach. I just need to subdue. I have to follow him without complaints for the meantime. He was there watching. He was the only person who could attest what had happened, but I’m sure “blood is thicker than water”. He wouldn’t just tarnish his uncle’s name. Not then, nor now. Now that he has taken our childhood friendship to an all new level of predator-prey relationship. WHAT/to page 7
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Age of Virtual Trainers Irish Mae S. Cuaresma
His demeanor is cold, seemingly unforgiving. Everything about him, from his slicked black hair and pressed lips. There is something in his attitude that is intriguing. It is creepy to realize that he walks alone under the dazzling street lights. He bows down his head, concentrating with his phone; not knowing what danger lies ahead. That’s what he usually does. That’s what a Pokémon Goer does.
A Daughter’s Desire
Poké mon G o is an augmented reality game that enables a gamer to use a Global Positioning System (GPS) to detect where and when he is in the game, making the Pokémons appear on his phone screen so he can go and catch them. Depending on where he is and what time it is, different types of Pokémon will appear as he moves around. This encourages him to travel around the real world to catch them in the game. The said game caused a lot of road accidents. Fox News reported that a vehicle struck an illegally parked car, noting that the driver had exited to catch Pokémons. Also, it caused the player’s metatarsal bone to fracture after slipping and falling down a ditch. On the other hand, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that a Pokémon trainer saved a stranger vomiting blood while looking for them (Pokémons).
Story of Alexia
Is it easy to forget and let go? Is it right not to forgive nor accept apology? Who would ever do such hideous act in front of God or her loved ones? My name is Alexia. I am a college student and this is my story. “Nak, ganahan ka magluto ko og paborito nimong food? Nak, naa ko dala pasalubong para nimo. Nak, naa ra kay balon? Anak, unsa may problema?” I hope that these words would fall out of her mouth with the most profound melody that is as beautiful as Mozart’s music pieces. We loved her, knowing that she is our mom, but that did not assure everything because the mom who I knew wasn’t my mom at all. Eating and boosting laughter, or even crying to the slightest problem together, I always dreamt of having a complete family – the kind of family that works as a team and goes crazy like patients in a psychological ward. I will never forget the day when she left. It has been a week since she walked away after the big fight that she had with my dad. She was the mom who I cherish the most, my idol and my motivator. I love her so much that I was so transparent to tell her the tiniest detail of my everyday activity. Everything about here was perfect, and I could not ask for more. I was busy cleaning the living room that day, because she texted me that she is coming home at last. I was sweeping the floor for the nth time when our front door opened and a lady in her mid-40s came inside. I was confused, for it wasn’t the kind of aura that I was expecting. She walked straight to the room, and so I followed her. There, I found her getting all her clothes out from the closet and putting it inside a big stroller bag. I was left dumbfounded. I never wanted the negative thoughts inside my head, but it bothered me like electricity tingling my nerves. I wanted to interrupt what she was doing, but it was no use. I could not move. My feet were trapped, my hands were cuffed, and my voice was summoned by silence. I cried out loud. My overflowing tears seemed to be too heavy to carry that it burst out of my eyes, continuously rolling down my cheeks. “Ma,” I cried, “Asa ka? Ayaw intawon mi biya-e.” “Sorry nak, sorry kaayo.” I could still remember the darkest hours that I had in my life. It was so hard, knowing the mom who you love so much broke your heart and left it with wounds that were uncertain for healing. Nevertheless, I have to endure the pain because I know she has a reason. She is still my mom – the one who gave me life, and the one who I will always be thankful of. I may have the shortest time with her, but those counted memories will always be engraved in my heart. Thank you, Ma. Alexia, who thought of nothing but to enjoy every minute of her life, is a student from the College of Arts and Sciences. She is so in love with Korean dramas. She may be wounded inside but she stays calm and happy, because she is certain that time will come she will recover.
the globe as the hottest new gaming craze, but it just started as an April fool’s joke made by Google Company way back 2014, integrating a “Pokémon Challenge” into its widely-used Maps feature. This challenge tests every man to be the world’s Pokémaster. The promotional video has become an inspiring idea to developers to make it happen soon, enticing the gamers to explore the world’s toughest terrain to catch and see fictional creatures. Ad d i c t ive g ame rs of Pokémon Go should thank John Hanke, CEO of Pokémon Go developers Niantic Lab, for creatively bringing Google’s April Fools Pokémon joke into life.
Pokémon Go On Social Media A feeling of being victorious made the Filipinos flock on different places such as hospitals, malls and even university campuses to catch these virtual creatures after it was launched How Po k ém on G o Wa s in the Philippines on July 25. Created? Meanwhile, Xavier School in It might be sweeping AGE/to page 6
Photo by Ma. Angelica G. Ho
Kenneth Carlorio Surilla
Art by Marko Mikhal G. Deposoy
Art by Emmanuel Manlun-uyan and Jameel Daksla
VOL XXXIV ISSUE NO 12-13 SEPTEMBER 5-18, 2016
Infographics by Javan lev A. Poblador
The Quest to Stop Oppression
Art by Emmanuel Manlun-uyan
Art by Marko Mikhal G. Deposoy and Jonel A. Baligasa
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CAMPUS IMAGE Lifeel Gleedz G. Raga
The 21-year-old lad walks with good posture through the corridors of the university as he gently tightens his uniform and sets it into order. He has an approachable visage that makes him look friendly, greeting his colleagues with a deep authoritative voice. His positive outlook may influence other students to have the same motivation like he has. He has a younger brother who is also studying here in
NORSU. His father works as a farmer on their poultry farm, supplying chicken meat to the public market while his mother runs a sari-sari store. His grandmother, who is now in California, helps them pay their tuition and other fees and gives their allowances every month. This senior BS Psychology student from the College of Arts and Sciences has a fair complexion with a broad physique. A native of Ipil,
Zamboanga Sibugay, he is Derry Deff G. Sampang — the former SGDC- 1 vice president. During his reign as vice president, he was elected as the Public Relations Officer of the League of Student Government (LSG), an organization that composes student leaders from the different universities here in Dumaguete City. He had witnessed how the university needs people who will fight and enhance the participation of students towards school activities, and he wanted to be a part of it. Because he aims to do what is best for the students, he ran and became a student leader. He organized several forums such as environmental protection and preservation for his concern to nature. Also, he had organized for u ms ab out t h e b a s i c constitutional rights of every Filipino citizen in which he cited that college students should have at least a knowledge of their rights together with leadership, business and entrepreneurship discussions.
Because of his active community involvements, he was awarded by the “Bayanihan sa Daan Movement” in Malacañan Palace together with Rojan Talita— president of League of Students Organization (LSO), for initiating the “Share the Road Movement” in Dumaguete City. “NORSU, which is very essential in molding the students, still has given a lot of knowledge through experienced and knowledgeable teachers though it lacks facilities,” he says. On the other hand, he admits, “NORSU is very bureaucratic, because the people in the admin sometimes makes very complicated policies to student such as the dress code policy,” wherein it received various critiques from the students. “Students should cooperate and eradicate apathy, because I believe that a collective effort is very effective to make a difference,” he shares, emphasizing that the contentment of the traditional way of thinking should be changed.
Photo by Ma. Angelica G. Ho
NORSU’S PRIDE. College of Business Administration student Mark Dave Cadano, the sole steno passer.
FSG to form judiciary
James Henry Y. Señagan
The Federation of Student Governments (FSG) concurred a meeting to form a new judiciary branch to amend the body’s constitution and by-laws, and help the students with concerns and complaints on August 10. “With the creation of the judicial branch, the students cannot go directly to the SAS (Student Affairs Services) office. We can solve and cater [the problems of] the students without affecting the good moral character,” said FSG President Remar t Dadan in an inter view with The NORSUnian (TN). The student regent explained that it is imperative for the judicial branch to be effective in order to assist the student’s problems. Dadan added that no further action was executed during the previous administration to enforce the judicial branch. “Last year, actually, I am a
house member representative. We a c tu a l ly pu she d and encouraged the pre vious president to appoint a chief justice and to create the judicial branch but I don’t know what’s the reason why he didn’t do his appointing power”, Dadan said. Moreover, SAS Director Julio Ventolero agreed with the formation of the judiciary branch in order for students to deal with student problems a n d c o mp l a i nt s s u c h a s bullying or disputes between two or more parties, etc., in their level of government. “The students can just give their complaints and deal with it through the judiciary branch, and if higher case na gali sya, puwede na sya ipasaka sa SAS office.” Dadan also mentioned that in order for the judiciary branch to become fully functional, students should a l s o c o op e r at e w it h t h e FSG and eradicate apathy especially on certain events and situations around the school.
A third year Office Systems Management (BSOSM) student of Main Campus I was the only passer during the Regional Civil Service Stenographer Examination last June 24, 2016 in Sudlon Lahug, Cebu City. According to Civil Service Commission Regional Office 7 Facebook post, Mark Dave Cadano of NORSU Main Campus I bested 25 other examinees in Region 7 who obtained 80 percent passing rate. In an interview with TN, Cadano shared passing the examination was not actually what he expected since there were some students who took the exam which he believed were better than him. Furthermore, Cadano expressed his loss of determination
in some points, saying, “Even though my grades in steno were getting low, I still decided to take the stenographers exam.” Delighted of the rare a c c o m p l i s h m e n t , OS M department chair Zarah Venzuelo said, “I’m very lucky to have Dave to really pass this stenographer exam at least out of 14 [Main Campus] who are willing to take in Cebu, naay usa na nakapasar.” According to Venzuelo, one of the challenges examinees had to face during the examination was the unclear audio. As a w hol e, C a d ano motivates aspiring eligible stenographers. “For those students who are striving for success don’t mind your failures kay sayo pa kaayo, but of course learn from them. Just do your part, give your best and leave everything to God,” he expressed.
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students, ang maistra kay paspas mu-dictate…whereas, kung naa sa testpapers kay okay ra siya kay dili ma-tense while ga-exam.” A c c o r d i n g l y, u n l e s s approved, colleges and student bodies should submit their respective budget proposals for BOR permission. “Any collection should have the proper approval from the board, if the collection will be collected not through the university cashier, wala na siya’y proper financial reporting.” Dadan cited. Dadan also disclosed the arrangement to solve the problem of test paper
payment collection saying the university will shoulder it. During the recent Students Assembly, Dadan clarifies that chief administrator, Jim Villahermosa and university president, Joel Limson had advised the instructors to request for test papers in the accounting and supply office. “I think they are not aware na mu-adto ug accounting.” “ Ye s , l i b r e n a … t h e students are not the ones paying the test papers, it’s the university or college,” the student regent furthered.
NORSUNIANS /from page 1
Stu d e nt s f rom ot he r universities in Dumaguete were also present in the said conference. Meanwhile, Secretary for Department of Agriculture (DA) Emmanuel Piñol assured stakeholders of Negros Oriental that no corruption will exist in the DA under President Rodrigo Duterte and that their first objective is to restructure the Department for better enactment. Other talks were from Jay Joel Soriano, head of
Negros Island Geothermal Business Unit, who answered the queries of environmental groups regarding the alleged operation of EDC in Mt. Talinis discussing the outstanding performance of the corporation while prioritizing the environment. Green SONA is an annual national conference conducted by Green Convergence for safe food, healthy environment, and sustainable economy.
NEWSBIT
FSG to investigate NHF The Federation of Student Governments (FSG) of Negros Oriental State University led by Hon. Remart Dadan disclosed plans to investigate the student administrators of the Facebook page NORSU Hidden Files due to their uncensored posts and stories. According to Dadan, they have already started investigating the Facebook page administrators of NHF from the College of Business Administration (CBA), College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA) and College of Arts and Sciences (CAS). To note, before the beginning of academic year 2016, the entire members of FSG conducted a strategic planning wherein NHF was part of their Dadan cited on how the administrators address posts from readers, he said, “Useless gihapon ang ilang rules na filter, muingon sila i-filter nila, but then again as you review the post naa gihapon Rated SPG na supposedly dili dapat i-post.” With regards to the plan of tracing all administrators through Cyber Crime, “Lisod, kay kung imong gamiton siya mo tap man ka atong among lecturer [Police]…Matrace nimo siya, but it takes time,” Dadan said. Dadan also emphasized, “The NHF should not be a medium of expressing your…kanang imong kadaot sa university. It should be addressed to the proper authority or proper offices.” He also stressed out, “Mo cater sila sa mga walay klaro o walay pulos. NHF is unethical in a way it destroys the image of our university due to uncensored stories and many commentators gives judgement without knowing the real story.” Dadan also stressed, he doesn’t want NHF to be stopped, however, he urged the administrators “to see whether the message is ethical or unethical in a way nga dili siya makadaot sa uban og dili siya bulgar kaayo og dili siya makadaot sa any name within this university.” On the other hand, Speaker of the House Genesis Dimatulac said, “There’s nothing wrong with it kay bisan ako tigbasa pud.” As of now, NHF is not their top priority due to inlined activities; hopefully, they will be pursuing it and the Congress will be working it.
brought good attitudes towards people who are socially inactive. When players are walking around their neighborhoods, cities and country sides in search for Pokémons, they are running into one another (sometimes literally). A shared love of the game makes an easy conversation between one player and the other. Also, players commented that they don’t need to go to the gym anymore, because the game taught them to exercise walking for miles to catch them all. It is hard for the gamers to stop especially when they are deeply obsessed with it. Yes, it brings happiness to them after searching for the virtual monsters under the scorching heat of the sun or from the strangest place they have never been before. Despite of the vim and vigor, consider its dark sides while catching ‘em all.
Photo by Neil Ryan Saraña
CICTSO/from page 1
TOKENS OF THANKS. The Kabilin Dance Troupe offered tokens of appreciation during the opening ceremony commencing the AACCUP accreditation and survey visit held at the NORSU Gymnasium.
the university a Wi-Fi zone. Mary Joy Tabares, a junior Social Science student, was grateful with the new restored Wi- Fi. “Thankful pud mi mga students kay maka-Google nami anytime then magamit na namo siya if mag research mi kay kana laging mo abot pamig internetan nya kalas kaayo.” Expressing his delight, a third year Bachelor of
Information Technology (BSIT) student Melvin Catan said, “I am impressed kay makatabang jud ni siya sa students for research.” CAS G o v e r n o r K u r t Villarias further suggested, “I-widen nila ang range sa router kay para makagamit tanan kay usually mga students diri sa hagdan dapit or diri sa hallway…dili man tanan magtambay sa open court ug library.”
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‘Accred upgrade should continue’—Norsunians Raya Mariel A. Cadiz
Aft e r t h e Ac c r e d i t i ng A g e n c y of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP), Inc visit in Negros Oriental State University main campuses last August 15-19, Norsunians hope the abrupt changes and improvements inside the university to become consistent citing great changes taken for granted after each visit.
AGE /from page 5
Metro Manila announced the “No Gaming Policy” through its Facebook page after the school admins detected that there are two Pokéstops inside the premises. Pokéstop is a place in Pokémon Go that allows gamers to collect items such as eggs and more Poke Balls used to store the captured Pokémons. Unfortunately, the said policy, which was implemented by the school’s administration, didn’t welcome the Pokémon goers. On the other side of the world, it has been taking too far in Social Networking Sites (SNS) such as Twitter, Tumblr and Facebook. The more it is being talked online, the more people will be tempted to download the game that would result to an added number of players. According to Forbes, psychologists consider it in a positive way because it has
NEWS
AIMING TO LEVEL UP. Accrediting Agency of Chartered Colleges and Universities in the Philippines (AACCUP)examine and evaluate the documents of the 14 NORSU programs— Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Information Technology, Business Administration, Pharmacy, Agriculture, Forestry, Electronics and Communications Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Geothermal Engineering, Bachelor in Agricultural Technology, Master of Arts in Physical Education and Doctor of Philosophy Major in Math Education—applying for accreditation under the new instrument Outcomes Base and Quality Assurance (OBQA) during their survey visit on August 15-19 (Photo by Jay Mark T. Umbac and Neil Ryan F. Saraña).
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Norsunian passes Civil Service R-7 steno exam Larry v. Villarin
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Pointing out the LED TV monitors, Limer Lito S. Pascua, a third year Education student stated, “Akong nabantayan diri’s canteen, ang TV kay accreditation week pa siya gion. Unya ang ako ra, nganong karon pa siyang accreditation gi-on? Unsa may gamit ani nga monitor if dili ni pirmi i-on? Para pud biya ni ma-aware ang mga students sa NORSU unsa’y mga activities.” Nevertheless, he
suggested that the all TV monitors installed around the campus should function to disseminate information and updates to students especially o n u p c o m i n g e v e nt s o r cancellation of classes. Moreover, Roselyn B. Daniel, third year Computer Science student, expressed her impressions that the c l e a n l i n e s s o f N ORSU ’s classrooms and hallway are just for accreditation purposes.
She even predicted that few weeks from now, it will be back to its previous state. “ I ’m a f r a i d d i l i n i mupadayon if ang mga students kay dili mu-cooperate. Hinaot unta nga ang mga teachers and students mu-cooperate para ma-maintain ni siya,” she added. Howe ve r, Mi c h a e l I . Azuelo, third year Computer Science student, is thankful to the improved internet Wireless
Fidelity (WiFi) connection that was installed in time with the accreditation. He said he plans to connect to the WiFi because, “dili na ko maglisod ba ug naa’y assignments. Di na mugawas pajud para mag-research”. He hopes the administration continues to maintain the improved WiFi connection which can benefit all students. In line with students’ reaction, Students Affairs
S e r v i c e s ( SAS ) D i re c tor and Quality Management Representative for the accreditation, Julio E. Ventolero, assured, “when we are already accredited with ISO that [maintaining cleanliness] should be our everyday business”. He pointed that he also has to monitor in maintaining these changes because, “ISO is really into quality, so even the slightest information, dapat mamonitor”.
Student insurance still pending Photo by Jay Mark T. Umbac
NEWS
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Narlyn Mascardo and Jenifer Cenas
NEW AND FRESH LOOK. Norsunians wearing the new university lanyard design distributed by the the Student Affairs Services. NORSU/from page 1
ritual) and a dance rendition of Freddie’s Aguilar songs, Magbago ka. Dr. Carlou Bernaldez, physical education of NORSU and principal, Senior High School gave the rationale and mechanics of the training. The 3-day gathering had two lectures and six workshops. WHAT/from page 4
A wrong move could make him burn the hays he has been storing for years and signal a very dark smog of smoke which could make my disposition at a disadvantage. I h av e n o i nt e nt i o n s o f pushing it to that level, but I have all the reasons to stop this nonsense and heal this m a s s ive wou n d t h at h a s kept on consuming my all. I’m okay with this even if it
Lecture 1- Overview of Visayan Ethinic Dances: its Sociological Context (by Dr. Christian Jarden) and lecture 2- Presenting Folk Dances on stage: Framework and Processes (By Prof. Lordinio Vergara) Workshop 1, Inagta by (Boen Zerna); W2, Inagong (by
Rodel Fronda); W3, Sinulog or Sinurog (by Rodel Fronda); W4, Sulogonon (by Prof. Liberty Poras); W5, Tamin (by Dr. Christian Jarden); W6, Staging Groupwork, the venue for all lectures and workshop is at NORSU Cultural Complex ( J G P- I n f o r m a t i o n a n d Publicity Office)
questions my sexuality, even if it influences my ideals and even if I despise the people on the third sex whose only desire is to get laid and enjoy flesh for pleasure – no love. This is for all of you who had been to a nightmare that you cannot just forget. This is for the few who had been taken advantage of— corrupted and molested. This is for ever ybody
who wished it had never happened. This is for you. This 18-year-old guy is an advocate of anti-sexual harassment. He is now a second year student from one of NORSU’s external campuses. He loves to cook for his girlfriend and looks forward to having a family with her in the future despite this deeply classified story that he shared.
The junior and senior students of Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) is yet to receive insurance after Students’ Affairs Services (SAS) Director Julio Ventolero disclosed its unavailability. Despite the Board of Regents (BOR)’s approval of its procurement, Ventolero said the insurance was not included in the Annual Procurement Plan (APP). “When a certain project or expense is not included in the APP, it cannot be purchased or procured,” he explained. According to the approved BOR Resolution No. 12, S. 2016, the collected student insurance fees for SY 2014-15 will be used to pay claims of concerned third and fourth year students, to ensure those who are still enrolled, and the remaining amount be used for the student government plans for students’ welfare. Contrary to the insurance report published on The NORSUnian (TN), most junior and senior students
encounter instances where they were required to purchase insurance policies for student activities outside the university premises. After attempting to claim their insurance for their tree planting activity, Mass Communications Student Society (MCSS) president Larry Villarin expressed distress due to the requirement to secure another insurance document. “Ga-expect [man gud] mi nga insured na, unya wala man makitang paper [evidence].” Villarin said. Nevertheless, MCSS pursued their tree planting activity at Reforestation Site Timbanga, Bacong, Negros Oriental. “We cannot cancel it because the plants are already available in the site,” Villarin added, “then ready na mi sa among chaperone and sa mayor.” In response, Ventolero explained that they required the insurance for the safety of the students, “…miskan kato rang baratuhon kay dili pa [ensured], wala pa gyud [ang insurance] unya mulakaw
man, maniguro gyud lamang ta.” Mark Dave Vendiola, Computer Science and Information Technology (CSIT) instructor and chaperone of the said event, assured the safety of the participating students. “Secured ra kay naa raman pud mga staff sa Bacong nga ni-guide namu and I was also looking into sa students na wala magpabuyag pud,” he explained. Villarin said that the activity was made to further develop their organization, “Last year, wala man gud mi na register so naningkamot gyud mi ron.” Furthermore, Ventolero added that a request for a supplemental budget was made to the BOR together with a proposal to include the purchase of insurance, “we proposed that the insurance of School Year 2014-2015 will be taken into consideration.” Ventolero also said that the insurance will be one of the agenda in the upcoming BOR meeting, “[once] it will be reflected in the APP, then BAC (Bids and Awards Committee) can already begin with the process.”
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HFMP holds federalism symposium
Photo by Ma. Angelica G. Ho
Still in doubt on the projected results brought by Federalism, students question a f e d e r a l g o v e r n m e n t’s ability to eradicate political monopolization and corruption during the symposium spearheaded by Hukbong Federal Movement of the Philippines (HFMP) held at NORSU gymnasium on August 12. After the symposium, Geolog y Student S ociety president Alec B enjamin Ramirez started to ask the HFMP as to how monopolization could be prevented if Philippines shifts to absorbing a federal form of government. “Since ang federalism man gud, ang local government ang gitagaan og more power, in short daghan sila og problem… gina-monopolize sa usa ka political family or person. Knowing na mas dangerous na nuon na kay you’re giving more power to those who are already corrupt.” T he H F M P Nat i ona l
Chairman Celso Tizon responded, “Part sa additional power sa local government units is the power to create and enact their own laws, we could craft anti-corruption measures depending sa kada government unit.” H o w e v e r, R a m i r e z stressed, “Wala ko na satisfy, I don’t see how we can implement that in a federal government, samot na ang mo-enact sa laws kay head sa local governments.” M o r e o v e r, G e n e s i s Dimatulac, Federation of Student Government (FSG) Speaker of the House is also uncertain of the system. “I’m in doubt of federalism but more likely I’m inclined to agree, once I see the changes later on in the administration.” College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Governor Ku r t Ne i l v y Vi l l a r i a s furthered that PH can become a developed country without changing the government system. Vi l l a r i a s o p t e d h o w changing the leaders managing our country could resolve our developmental
issues rather than changing the government system. On the other hand, Derry Deff Sampang, former Vice president of Student Government of Dumaguete City (SGDC) 1, like the idea of having federalism in the countr y b ecaus e PH is a multi-cultural and multiethnic country. Nat iona l C hief L ega l C ounsel and Provincial Chairman, Atty. Joel Obar s a i d H F M P i s a p r i v at e organization helping the president in moving forward the idea and campaign for Federalism. The said event was a preconvention and oath taking ceremony, participated by the members of HFMP from Negros Island Region (NIR), Siquijor Chapter and a number of Norsunians. In connection with this, Obar disclosed President Rody Duterte will be visiting D u m a g u e t e C it y for t h e Nat i on a l C onve nt i on on September 9 wherein the president will serve as a guest speaker.
Photo by Jay Mark T. Umbac
Narlyn R. Mascardo
PROPAGATION OF FEDERALISM. Officials from different municipalities of Negros Oriental converge during the Hugpong Federal Movement of the Philippines to support President Rodrigo Duterte’s advocacy on Federalism at NORSU Sports and Cultural Complex.
AnakTV endorses responsible televiewing
RESPONSIBLE TELEVIEWING. Norsunians participate during the Anak TV symposium about television literacy and child sensitive viewing. Donna T. Darantinao
In cooperation with the Negros Oriental State University Social Science Department, the Anak TV Foundation held a forum on television literacy and child sensitive viewing held in the College of Nursing, Pharmacy, and Allied Health Sciences Audio-Visual Room (CNPAHS-AVR) last August 12. Participated by Mass Communication, Social Science, Tourism and Education students, the said symposium aims to promote the smart and responsible televiewing, explaining its importance not only to children, but also to individuals aging 18 and above. Ernie Magtuto, one of the speakers from Net 25, explained the rapid change of the world especially in the technological aspect. Magtuto cited televisions and smartphones could easily be accessed by young people, thus exposing them to inappropriate TV contents detrimental to the minds of the viewers, especially children.
Family planning, breastfeeding to aid student awareness
Comics by Jameel Daksla
In commemoration of the Breastfeeding and Family Planning Month, Norsunians expressed their insights on responsible family planning and importance of breastfeeding. Alice Contad, a second year Biology student said family planning is very important for it helps reduces population growth in the country. “Kon naay family planning, ma-prioritize ang mga saktong panginahanglan sa mga anak ug ma-lessen pud ang population diri sa kalibutan. Mas gamay ng namuyo, mas limpyong
nasod,” she stated. Also, third year criminology student Eljun Cabual stated family planning contributes to lessen the problems within a family, specifically in times of breastfeeding and during the pregnancy period. Computer Science student Angel Bendijo said, “Aside from lessening population and reproductive diseases, it also raises awareness especially for us students with these kinds of issues.” In c o op e r at i on w it h the Population Commission (PopCom), the Department
of Health (DOH) held the Kapihan sa PIA on the value of breastfeeding and family on August 17 at Bethel Guest House. With the theme “Family Planning: Keys to Sustainable Development,” PopCom-NIR Regional Director Darrlyn Remolino stated the issue regarding the increase number of teenage pregnancy in the said event. Remolino also stated PopCom has established the Learning Package for Education Development (LPED) where topics on responsible
parenthood, adolescence, and sexuality issues are discussed. Dr. Socrates Villamor of DOH cited the Expanded Breastfeeding Act of 2009 mandates to install lactating stations for breastfeeding mothers and that breastfeeding reduces a child’s mortality rate and protects the lives of both the infant and the mother. PopCom and DOH continues to conduct seminars and trainings on family planning sessions for husbands and wives. (With reports from news. pia.gov.ph) Infographics by Judeel E. Cuevas
Donna T. Darantinao
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Furthermore, Magtuto said parents must set a good example to their children and practice regulated hours of internet surfing and watching TV shows. “TV is a privilege to be earned, not a right,” he said. The symposium ended with the voting for Anak TV Seal Awardees and the giving of Anak TV cards to all who attended the event. Liza Mae V. Aseñas, a fourth year Education student, said that the symposium was very helpful for the students’ awareness regarding the watching of TV shows and programs. “We will be able to reflect on ourselves about the usage of television and its effects. It also helps the students to be aware about TV shows or programs that they want to watch.” She also added, “We will not only practice our knowledge by ourselves, but by others as well, sharing what we’ve learned for the sake of the next generation.”
Another participant from the Mass Communication program, Sonny Temblor, said, “It allocates a huge relevance to us, norsunians and it teaches us to be critical about the things that the TV feeds, and understanding its complications to younger viewers—making us adults a responsible guide.” Furthermore, Graciella Prasco, Social Science student, stated that the forum was an eye-opener not only to the students, but to the teachers as well. Partnering with different corporations− PTV, TV5, GMA, GMA News TV, IBC, ABS-CBN Live Sports and Action, NET 25, Light Network, UNTV, Knowledge Challenge, INC TV, CCP, ABS-CBN, and the 2GO Group Inc., Anak TV primarily aims on promoting child sensitive, family-friendly television in the Philippines, protecting the rights of a child, and an individual’s involvement in child protection activities.