WE write for you. we fight for you. VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 28-29 | January 15-26, 2018
Dgte youth leaders: Go for zero waste drive ADHERE AND ADVOCATE. #GoForZeroWaste campaign gathers youth throughout the province at Foundation University. Photo by Ma. Angelica Ho
Over 1000 youth participants in Dumaguete City were gathered for a zero waste movement in which Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives (GAIA) initiated a signature campaign to ban the usage of plastic bags. “Naniniwala ako na ang zero waste, by faith ay mangyayari at mangyayari ‘yon in the near future,” Merviel Rosario, president of the San Fernando YES-O network said. In line with the celebration of the ‘5th Zero Waste Month’ organized by GAIA at Foundation University (FU) on January
16 for Asia Pacific and Mother Earth Foundation (MEF), various youth leaders across the country shared ideas, experiences, and strategies to realize a zero waste community. “Start with yourself, tumigil sa paggamit ng plastic at huwag magtira ng pagkain,” Khate Nolasco, founder of the Potrero United Youth organization in Malabon City said. With the increasing consumers in the city, War On Waste-Negros Oriental (WOW-Nor), co-founder
Merci Ferrer stressed out, “Dumaguete is facing waste problems. We will solve the Narlyn R. Mascardo problem of Dumaguete!” Despite no new “Zero-waste is walay uniforms due to the usik…hindi mo delayed procurement man kailangan process, Negros Oriental ang isang bagay State University (NORSU) [huwag ng bumili],” Froilan Tigers competed in the Grate, executive Regional State Colleges director of and Universities Athletic GAIA Philippines Association (SCUAA). “Dili madala ang explained. paghuman sa uniforms sa Former President designated nga time, basin Benigno Simeon Aquino III signed Proclamation No. 760 og mulapaw na,” Robeleo Sports and in 2012 to commemorate Padernal, Athletics director said. ‘Zero Waste Month’ every As a temporary January through the active resolve, some athletes campaign of Filipino youths utilized their previous DGTE/ to page 3
Athletes vie SCUAA reg’l despite no uniforms
AIM TO ACE. These basketball players are vying for the last minute play in their crucial game.
The NORSUnian File Photo
Faith Jessica E. Alejano
uniforms, while others the competition. Padernal said, “Actually used their own money to acquire new uniforms for ATHLETES/ to page 3
swipes 2nd place BSA spices up Harvest Fest 2018 NORSUSCUAA reg’l Cliffingen T. Amante
Faith Jessica E. Alejano
As one of the highlights of NORSUMabinay’s 1st CB-Tech Day, Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSA) administered their Harvest Festival 2018 at the university farm on January 22. Amidst the heat of the sun, all faculty, staff and students enjoyed harvesting products like watermelon, sweet corn, eggplant, squash, and hot and sweet pepper. “I thank all the agriculture students and the administration for a job well done. All the efforts and sacrifices were really paid off,” Filvincent Montecalbo, BSA adviser said. Iris Caseres, CARE officer said, “They have different products and I was amazed especially to the different variety of pepper. They also have two varieties
AIMING to remain steadfast in regional tournaments, Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) placed overall first runner-up in the recently concluded State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA). NORSU Tigers, with a total of 223 officials and athletes grabbed the second place after garnering 118 golds next to Cebu Technological University (CTU) with 122 gold medals during the 4-day SCUAA Meet held in Calape, Bohol on January 23-26, 2018. Harvest ’18: Giving emphasis to Harvest Festival, CBTech Department head Carlito Acabal (on the right) and BSA Adviser, Robeleo Padernal, Fel Vincent Montecalbo (at the left) join hands in harvesting the watermelon, one of the products of BSA. NORSU Sports and of watermelon. I’m quite still pleased because of many Deada, a BSCS student Athletics director, however upset because I was not able buyers. Congratulations commented about the success said, “Karun pa na first to buy those products due to BSA.” of the event saying, “I salute runner-up ang NORSU, BSA/ to page 3 financial constraints but I’m In addition, Dories
MERE WARNINGS
INEVITABLE RAMDOMNESS SEE PAGE 2
FAITH HEALING... FEATURES
SEE PAGE 5
overall champion ang university sa tanang SCUAA and first time pod sa CTU na overall champion.” Competing in 32 sports, Tigers championed in football men, futsal men, pencak silat men and women, sepak takraw, softball women, basketball women, beach volleyball women, badminton women, table tennis men and women, athletics men, and karatedo men and women. Besides, Tigers won individual golds with one gold for arnis men, one gold for arnis women, 10 golds for athletics men, one gold for boxing, seven golds for karatedo men, eight golds for karatedo women, 11 golds for pencak silat men, 10 golds for pencak silat women, four golds for NORSU/ to page 3
Do you PRACTICE...
UNIVERSITY POLL SEE PAGE 8
OPINION
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VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 28-29 JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 26, 2018
EDITORIAL TRAIN Law!
The newly enacted Tax Reformation for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law is considered by the government as its first tax reform package for a fairer and simpler tax system for the Filipinos. The said law is not just for decreasing tax on personal income, estate, and donation, but also increasing the tax on certain passive incomes and documents as well as excise tax on petroleum products, minerals, automobiles, cigarettes, sweetened beverages and non-essential services, and removing the tax exemption of Lotto and other PCSO winnings. Now, this is what we call a give-and-take process. If Filipinos receive a higher take home pay, then they will have more money to spend for all goods at a higher price. So, what is really its true intent? Just one, this is to pay the additional costs of commodities that the TRAIN will bring. No matter what the government says, there is a huge impact in all goods being sold because petroleum products are increasing with the transportation fare every week. Public utility vehicles also need petroleum in order to do its service. It is not luxury when they commute to go to work or school; however, if they learn to minimize their consumption, there will be some money left for savings. Workers with an annual salary of P250,000 is exempted from tax from 2018 and beyond. Tax exemption includes the mandated 13th month bonus and other bonuses in which every employee can now take home more than they did the previous years. Sadly, the low income earners will shoulder the bad impacts of this new taxation scheme as they cannot afford all goods at a higher price. With this, the government has promised a 200-peso month conditional cash transfer to poor families to lessen the impact of the law to the poor. For the next two years, this will be increased to P300 a month. Taxes will become even higher as the years go by. They can consider this as a reason for them to live overseas and switch nationalities, or look at the bright side: they can choose what they want to spend their increased take-home money and wait for a year to witness the said law’s full impact. Everything is a give and take. We can’t have it all. The bottom line is that the government needs money from the Filipinos through their taxes in exchange for better service. A total of 70% of its revenue is allocated for public projects until the end of the president’s term in 2022. The other 30% will go to education, social protection, health, and housing among others. Thus, its true intent is for Filipinos to pay the additional costs of commodities that the said law will bring.
Mere Warnings The city limits have signage that reads, “You are now entering SMOKE FREE Dumaguete City.” But is this really true? The Tobacco Regulation Act of 2003 (Republic Act No. 9211) prohibits smoking in certain public places whether enclosed or outdoors, prohibits the purchase and sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products from and to minors and in certain places frequented by minors, imposes bans and
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restrictions on advertising, promotion and sponsorship activities of tobacco companies, and directs local government units to implement these provisions. Now, the government is challenged to enforce Section 10 of RA 9211, which prohibits the sale of tobacco products within 100 meters from the perimeter of a school. It also bans the advertising of smoking in outdoor displays, such as billboards, murals, and transport stations within
100 meters from a school’s perimeter. There are several reminders that offenders will be fined up to P3, 000 plus imprisonment. These warnings should serve as something to be followed by everyone in the city, but these warnings on signage are usually ignored. This ignorance is especially true to some students and even faculty of Negros Oriental State University wherein some of them were seen smoking in the public parking lot for motorcycles outside the school near the vendor stalls. This is not just a direct violation to the no-smoking ordinance in the city but also a public ignorance. This is a clear manifestation that some students are just complete delinquents. Should there be an imposing body in order to bring order to such acts? And if it happens that there is none, would the individuals
involved in such acts cease their unlawful actions? This is an important question that needs answering. Besides the fact that there are rule breakers, the secondhand smoke that these cigarettes emit are also a problem given that there is also a neighboring high school near NORSU and there are certain minors who visit the vendor stalls during their dismissal hours to which certain rule breakers do the deed during such time. They keep on doing it again and again, and vendors should be wary of such act. Should they continue doing it at the parking lot reserved for students and tarnish the name of the school? Should they stop it for the betterment? The act exists for the welfare of the people and the protection of the environment. Civil society must strengthen the government’s efforts to enforce the law to prevent a habit that harms the health of people. Be informed.
VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 28-29 JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 26, 2018
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NEWS
P1.2M geodetic eng’g CB-Tech unites on its 1st college day gears arrive Kenneth Carlorio S. Surilla
S u r v e y ing equipment procured by Negros Oriental State University (NORSU) are now ready to be utilized for the Geodetic Engineering Department after its arrival on January 25. Engr. Michael Saga, Geodetic Engineering Department chairperson, supervised the arrival of the equipment that costed P1, 256, 000. Saga said the requested gears will increase the
efficiency of students in activities like surveying, measurements, and topography. Some of the equipment are RTK V90 Rover & Base, 3G/ GPRS Antenna, Bench Marker and other office accessories. Meanwhile, the chairperson shared that Dumaguete served as venue for the 43rd Annual Regional Convention of the Geodetic Engineers of the Philippines on February 9 and 10 which NORSU hosted the event attended by licensed geodetic engineers.
Cliffingen T. Amante
Bringing the name “Tribu IPONA” (Inapoy, Poblacion, Namangka) cluster, Norsunians of Mabinay Campus were declared winners during the Mabinay Langub Festival 2018, on January 24. Aside from being the winner, the Tribu IPONA bagged the awards for Best in Showdown, Best in Choreography, Best in Identification Arc and Best in Choreographer Award. “I never expected that our performance will win. I’m so happy during the awarding,”Cocon Benlot Russiana, one of the Tribu
IPONA dancers said. In addition to Russiana’s statement, Rachel Mae Maceda, another participant of the school expressed, “We’re so overwhelmed! We garnered four awards aside from being the champion. Despite the hectic schedules we had, we are able to overcome all due to the unending support of the faculty and staff and most especially to our campus administrator.” Campus administrator Arcie Nogra, said she is proud for the achievement of the dancers, and for those honorable people who trust NORSU through Facebook.
Photo by TN - Mabinay
NORSU-Mabinay’s Tribu IPONA champs Langub Fest ‘18
Home-made Sweets: First year BSBA students are proud in their sold-out Cookies and Brown Rice Cake during the showcasing of new products as one of CBTech’ Day highlight.
Acabal, MBA, head of the CBTech department said. The event look place at D e v e loping the university covered-court technology, tourism, with the theme,” Enriching and business for local Technology, Tourism entrepreneurship, the Negros and Business on Local Oriental State University Entrepreneurship.” (NORSU)-Mabinay Campus The students and faculty unified during their first College from the achelor of Science of Business and Technology in Business Administration (CB-Tech) Day, January 22. (BSBA), Bachelor of Science “Despite the lack of in Hospitality Management funding, I’m thankful to all people behind the success (BSHM), Bachelor of Science Industrial Technology of the celebration,” Carlito in ATHLETES/ from page 1 we have the money, it’s only that the suppliers cannot cope with the demand.” BOR Resolution No. 106, series of 2017 states the approval of Php 2,689,000 budget for the university’s participation in the SCUAA athletic meet 2018 held in Bohol, January 23-26. The total amount was allotted for the uniforms and personal participation SHARLYN TORRES
Photos by Louise M. Abrasado
Improper yet visible. Motorcycles owned by some faculty and staff are parked along the university administration building.
Let’s go physical! Some students flaunt their Physical Education (PE) uniform at the university open court.
NORSU/ from page 1 swimming men, four golds for swimming women, two golds for taekwondo men and one gold for taekwondo women. The university also earned silver medals for badminton women, baseball men, basketball men, chess men, volleyball men, volleyball women and Mister and Miss SCUAA 2017. “The other schools are also preparing harder than before and we suffer lack of players because of the off-set of the Senior High School (SHS), wala kaayo DGTE/ from page 1 for ecological solid waste management. Notably, some Norsunians BSA/ to page 3 all the people behind this event, because of them we managed to buy good quality products at such a low price.” With the result of the
(BSIT), Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSA), and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) participated of the said gathering. In connection with the theme, participating students showcased their different products and innovation as one of the highlights of the event. “College of Business and Technology students are really creative. I’m impressed with their unique variety of products,” Jeshadenn Maylan,
a BSBA student said. “Through the activity, the talents and skills of the CB-Tech were being shown; however wala kaayo tawo because of the other activities of the school but the show must go on,” Kim Harold Quiliope, a BSCS student added. Meanwhile, NORSUMabinay campus administrator Engr. Arcie Nogra extended her appreciation to the skills and efforts of all CB-Tech programs.
which includes the coaches’ and athletes’ transportation, food allowance, and other expenses according to Padernal. “Sa among team gapalit rami’g amoang jersey kanang ginama na daan, gapa print rami, nangita jud mi’g way,” Gadfrea Sanoy, a volleyball team captain said. Elton Fritz Bilangdal, from the swimming
team said even if they have no uniforms, their performance in the game was not affected. “Disappointed ra mi gamay pero wala na pod mi choice kay ing-ana man gihapon last year. Ang gigamit namo last year kay uniform sa players’ nga nauna namo,” James Malero, table tennis player stressed out.
ta materials na nakuha, hopefully next year we can invite the senior high graduates,” Padernal said. He disclosed most of the varsity players were sanctioned to disciplinary action because they were not able to maintain their Grade Point Average (GPA), while some of them did not meet the required number of subject units to compete for SCUAA. SCUAA Regional 2017 was joined by five universities in Region VII or Central Visayas namely: Cebu Normal University (CNU), Cebu Technological
University (CTU), Negros Oriental State University (NORSU), Siquijor State College (SSC), and Bohol Island State University (BISU) as the host university. Hardwork, dedication to their practices and their God-given skills that led the Tigers to triumph, Padernal said. “Napildi ang uban, but they gave a good fight,” he added. The regional champions will represent Region VII for National SCUAA Meet 2017 on February 18-25, 2018 in Sibalong, Antique.
together with Javan Lev Poblador, president from Negros Oriental the first Association of Young State University (NORSU) joined Environmental Journalists (AYEJ) in the zero-waste movement. event, BSA students were thankful to have a good harvest this season. “I thank God for giving us good weather to celebrate
the Harvest Festival,” Dona Bella Gregorio, Student Government (SG) representative of the BSA program said.
FEATURES
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VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 28-29 JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 26, 2018
CAMPUS IMAGE
Photo by Ma. Angelica G. Ho
Illustrated by Jessa C. Araneta and Claire Francis Elum
Campus Image Narlyn R. Mascardo
Narlyn R. Mascardo
Glossolalia: Beliefs versus Contradictions Caryl J. Sapepe
The place, in its calmness, turned to something crazy. His skin crawled, and he was left dumbstruck. He had witnessed them shouting; uttering words he could not understand. He noticed a girl who fell on the ground with eyes closed, laughing like a 3-year-old kid. Meters away from the unconscious gal, one was shaking as if charged on a 220 V socket. He wanted to escape from the horrific scene, but something was stopping him. He looked around and noticed that he was inside a Christian church. Speaking in tongues, also known as glossolalia, is considered miraculous but has been vigorously debated during the past century. This dramatic miracle helped the Christian church begin. In these churches, tongue-speakers formed charismatic fellowship groups within a huge number of devotees. Still, other churches forbid their members from the practice. The most dramatic ‘tongues’ incident on the Day of the Pentecost is evident in the Bible. Like many histories, it focuses on ground-breaking events with only little attempt to describe ordinary practices. A thought from a biblical scope “…suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of
them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.” (Acts 2:2-4 NIV) Devout men from every nation under heaven had dwelled in Jerusalem. People became inquisitive and perplexed. With this, Peter stood up and explained that the experience was a fulfillment of a prophecy about God’s Spirit. The miraculous languages got the attention of t h e crowd and allowed Peter to speak with authority to the people, even though he was not a rabbi (or a Jewish spiritual teacher). Its second description came when non-Israelites were first added to the church— perhaps 10 years after Christ’s death and resurrection. While Peter was speaking in tongues, others who heard the message, felt the Holy Spirit. The Jews were astonished
Roommate Story of Alia
that the gift had poured out even on the Gentiles— the nonJewish people, for they heard them speaking in tongues, praising God. The miracle made Christianity expand to other regions. Moreover, the third and final example of tongues occurred in Ephesus City when Paul found some disciples and informed them more about the Holy Spirit. Contradicting the belief, a published article from letgodbetrue.com stated, “… The true gift of tongues ended nearly 2000 years ago. To n g u e s today are not a gift of the
Historically, as could be inferred, glossolalia is much older than Apostle Paul. As posted by Peter Bainbridge— a blogger, non-Christians speak in tongues too. The language of no bars and technical learnings
Spirit. And the doctrine and practice of Charismatics and Pentecostals prove them to be heretics under the delusion of the devil and his ministers (II Cor 11:3-4, 13-15).”
Over the years, there has been a lot of serious independent research of the practice. In a detailed study conducted in the early 1970’s by William Samarin— a prominent linguistics professor, samples of glossolalia from all around the world were gathered and recorded. And all these data underwent an extensive analysis over a period of five years. He, then, discovered that the practice does appear to resemble a human language but was only on the surface. That the actual stream of speech is disorganized with no existing relationship between units of speech and Glossolalia/ to page 7
It was getting dark and I don’t know why I wanted to get out. I felt like I had to check something, but I had no idea what. I forced myself anyway. The longer I stayed outside, the darker the skies have become. I sensed someone looking at me from the house. I tried to ignore my anxiety but it didn’t feel right. Wait— “This is not our house!” I gasped. But why are my parents inside? Why am I here? My heart started to pound hard. “Mom?” I called, but she couldn’t hear me. “Mom! Let
me in!” I yelled. She wasn’t answering me. I tried again, my voice louder this time. I’m scared. Someone’s following me! She’s following! “Mooooom!” I woke up. It was the second time I dreamt of that house. It looked similar to the house we were supposed to rent before. Good thing my parents decided to come back to old house— the house I have loved, although they wanted to sell it at first. I wiped the sweat out of my face and got off from the bed. I thought about it, especially the lady, and it
She closed her eyes as she felt the gentle wind of Pamplona. Memories filled her mind, and everything from the past instantly became vivid. She felt her heart let out a soft cry as her thoughts drifted. The year 2009 brought heartache. Back then, she was still in her sixth grade in elementary when her mother went to Manila and seek job opportunities there to provide for their family. Everything seemed fine since she still had communication with them. They sent money for her mother so she can finally come back. She called many times but to no avail. She tried to contact her the next day but no one answered. That day, she had lost her only medium of communication— the only way for her to know what had happened to her mother. Left on a cliff, hanging unto doubts, she did not let her grief override her rational emotions. She decided to persevere in her studies to save money in order to look for her mother when she graduates and lands a stable job. She longs for her mother’s affection which she had lost a long time ago. She feels envious whenever she sees a mother and daughter enjoying each other’s company. She even feels like she is unfortunate, but this only pushed her to be more determined to succeed. She is Princess Vanessa Ramirez, 19 years of age, born on May 10, 1998 at East Avenue, Quezon City. She currently currently resides at Poblacion, Pamplona, Negros Oriental. She is now in her third year taking up Bachelor of Science in Agriculture major in Animal Science at Negros Oriental State University-Pamplona Extension. Aside from academics, Princess is also one of those students who are active when it comes to extra-curricular activities. Despite having a health issue, it never stopped her from serving her fellow students. In her first year, she was elected as President in her class and representative of the Future Agriculturists and Foresters Students’ Society (FAFSS). In her second year, she became a Public Information Officer (PIO) of the Student Government (SG), and a news writer of Ang Binhi, the student publication of NORSUPamplona Extension. Presently, she is the President of FAFSS. Due to the many responsibilities placed on her shoulders, her studies got affected. One instance was when she attended a fourday meeting at NORSU-Dumaguete wherein she was not able to attend her classes. “Nag maintain man unta ko’g 83 above kay para na laman unta pag-graduate puhon, ma Presidential Awardee. At least, maproud si Papa nako pero wa na jud koy mahimo,” Vanessa said. Nevertheless, she explained she had already accepted that fact, as long as she was able to help her schoolmates in Pamplona CAMPUS IMAGE/ to page 7 through her service. annoyed me. I was nagging in the middle of the night because of so much anger. I went to my mother’s room, still mad, so she told me to calm down and ignore it. I did and headed back to bed. I played Christian songs loud enough, until I realized that it was almost three in the morning. The next day, I did my all chores and pretended nothing happened. Everything was fine ‘til that evening. We noticed that there were woolly bears everywhere in the house. It was the first time I saw black woolly bears,
particularly on my bed. They kept popping wherever I was, so my dad got rid of them. Because of those peculiar incidents, I felt uncomfortable every time I went to bed. The last time I saw a woolly bear, it was there, really close to my face! One morning, I caught one on my face so I wiped it off as fast as I could. I ran outside of my room, went to the kitchen and saw my sister wiping her arm because a woolly bear crawled there too. I couldn’t take it anymore! My mom called me and UNIVERSITY DIARY / to page 8
In an Almost Broken Jar Story of Blossom
Photo by Pamela Louise M. Abrasado
Millions of possibilities revolve around our everyday lives, but the one I’m dreaming the most, for this specific moment, is the one everyone hopes for— a complete family. That is a possibility and a dream; and I believe that dreams do come true. During my childhood years, I thought that the thing I have to fear the most from my parents is their strict upbringing and their sharp words. I thought that their criticism, because they love me and my siblings so much, would be the only thing that would break my heart. I stand corrected. My college years opened a lot of ideas and one of these is the thought of my family, possibly, being shattered. That despite the foundation and nails, the strength, it could fall down because the mixture percentage wasn’t done the way it should be. Summer vacation, after my first year in college, I met our half-sister, Anne, for the first time. She’s nice, but my Mom doesn’t like the thought of her. Mom hates to hear anything about Anne because she’s the daughter of our dad from another woman. But we kept our secret. With Dad and my three other siblings, we already met Anne and bonded with her several times, but we kept those information from Mom; but not until the end of my third year during the first semester. Mom, with the agony of being alone abroad and being “hurt” by her family, heated up and hated us— that’s when things got worse. I tried to explain to her that it’s not Anne’s fault. It wasn’t her choice to be the product of an illegitimate affair. Now, years have passed and I think it’s time to live life forgiving other people and stop reminiscing the pain for the past couldn’t be changed. The truth was hidden from her because we knew she wouldn’t understand, and if we’ll wait for her to do so, it would take years. Those long years will be Anne’s loss. She won’t have someone to call as, “Tatay”. She won’t meet her siblings. And those years would mean Anne’s incomplete identity of herself. Those long years will be the same, silent mess if we will not meet her. UNIVERSITY/ to page 8
CAMPUS IMAGE
DONNA T. DARANTINAO
Faith Healing: Fact or Fraud?
Illustrated by Claire Francis B. Elum and Joleos June S. Vegare
Illustrated by Emmanuel D. Manlun-uyan
VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 28-29 JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 26, 2018
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FEATURES
Larry V. Villarin
Behind the enticing history of the gentle city, there lies countless of undying traditions. In a cultural perspective, places vary in beliefs. These beliefs are said to have died long ago, but most of them are still practiced even today. One is faith healing bounded by its profound beginning. Other people believe was also traced by the late the process of warding off treatment advised by a quack in faith healing’s power of Juan Flavier, former president evil spirits from a human doctor includes the offering treatment especially those of the International Institute possession by making of food and coins to the spirits who do not rely on scientific of Rural Reconstruction in hand gestures if a patient has wronged findings and technology, but the Philippines, a former f o r m i n g them. some just don’t seem to be Department of Health circles Meanwhile, convinced. secretary, senator, and author several reports from In the humble settling of of the book, Doctor to The Freeman, a local Dumagueteños, quack doctors the Barrios. newspaper based in (also faith-healers) are locally He talked to some Cebu, centered to known as mananambal. Their herb doctors whom four alleged fake faithpresence has been popular in he once asked about healers arrested by the barangays of Bajumpandan, the illness medical the police in Naga Cantil-e, Talay and Junob, doctors don’t know City, after being which eventually spread across about. “Those of accused of its neighboring places. the spirit and those that duping an is unseen,” the herb 85-yearTracing its roots doctor replied. old patient Similar to some to cough It is believed that the root quack doctors in local up almost of their healing ability could cities like Dumaguete, P13,000 for either be traced as a legacy they have certainty in the air, healing sessions. from their forefathers passed that spirits living within and blowing them to the With more circumstances from generation to generation, us can strike down illness, possessed body to drive away from the same source, a certain and others were destined known as “gihangop og kalag” the spirit. faith healer’s posting at Colon by fate. And for reasons of (sickness of the soil); while For some cases, such as Street, Cebu Citywas reported economic constraints, some medical treatment can’t cure ailments, she cures a patient by police after asking P7,000 locals choose to merely rely its occurrence. using herbs by plastering it for the service. on alternative healing instead with a piece of cloth, rubbing Though the mainstream of seeing a medical doctor. Faith healing in the modern the body with an amount of populace of Dumaguete Their methods of treatment times ointment and perform oracion City has encompassed the on demonic possession and (or prayers), a secret phrase advent of medicine shaped human illnesses have gained Conferring to a local believed to be responsible for by science, the long been acceptance and popularity. mananambal, Nining, who is the patient’s recovery. Likewise, unproven belief of faith The concept of faith healing in her late fifties, explained some associated form of FAITH/ to page 7 Lisa Kleypas, Christina Dodd, Antoine de saint Exupery, Jane Austen, Michelle Moran, and Sun Tzu— do you know any of them? No. You do. Some of them. Perhaps, if you don’t, then this damsel-indistress-wannabe thinks you’ve missed half of your life. “A well-read woman is a dangerous creature,” is her favorite quote. Well, you might want to watch your words when you’re with her, because a single drop of interest in literature and arts from your tongue would mean a never-ending conversation with her. But behind a bubbly exterior and a smiling face is a daughter who also encounters ups and downs in life. But seeing her family helps each other hand in hand to face a day with positivity, it sure is an enough reason for her to walk all steep roads and high
mountains. “Miskan walay kwarta, permi rang positive. Magkatawa rajud mi sige,” she said, and further explained that her family might not be well-off, especially in terms of luxury, she can say that it is ideal because she learned all the values that molded her into the lassie she is now. As the youngest, her traditional parents are the strictest when it comes to her. But of course, her other siblings get monitored, too. Because of this, she suddenly feels like Maria Clara with matching flipped hair. Having strict parents, she explained the positivity, “Guided kaayo ka and you’ll be responsible sa imong actions, more mature and serious, walay laag kay studies first!” The downside of it is feeling closed away from the world, wings concealed. But with just
reading some light pages of her books, she can already feel a new universe unfolding at her feet. In elementary and high school, she graduated as valedictorian and an honorable mention with special awards; but when she entered college, she immediately realized how rare the opportunities were. So, she remained a wallflower, until she was assigned as Property Custodian for the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Student Government, academic year 2016-2017. In the same year, she was unexpectedly selected as the representative for her department during the Mister and Miss CAS 2017, like a startling twist in a fairytale. She then won as Miss Hugyawan 2017 and bagged several awards. She didn’t want to join at CAMPUS IMAGE/ to page 7
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ENTERTAINMENT
Crossword Puzzle
VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 28-29 JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 26, 2018
How well do you know The NORSUnian (TN)?
Down 1. Publication frequency of the campus paper in 1983 2. Present publication frequency 3. Eye color of TN mascot 4. A person at a newspaper who edits stories and decides which ones to publish 5. Official literary folio Across 6. “We write for you, we fight for you” 4. Former name of the student publication 7. TN mascot 8. Official lampoon issue 9. The bloodline of the publication
SUDOKU
Word of the Week
Entrance \’en-tr
n(t)s\ n. the means or place of entry Synonym: Exit Example: • Norsunian ka kung ang imong entrance ug exit kay pareho ra. First use: Negros Oriental State University, Philippines
NEWS
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Photo by TN - Mabinay
VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 28-29 JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 26, 2018
MISTER MABINAY. Happiness and Sportsmanship show in the eyes of the top 5 Mr. Mabinay with the newly crowned, Nelger Fernandez (at the center).
Norsunian feats Mister Mabinay ‘18 crown
“To the youths in today’s generation; study hard because in education we can achieve our dreams.” Thus was the answer of Nelger Fernandez before he earns the title as Mister Mabinay 2018.Fernandez is a Business Administration student CAMPUS IMAGE/ from page 5 first, but she was motivated to lift up her department and said, “Tungod anang stereotyping. Gilook down mi permi. I want to let them know nga challenging pod among course and ma-stress gihapon mi. Di lang jud obvious.” Aside from the pageant, she also participated in activities like outreach programs, art jam, and cosplay exhibits where she enjoyed every bit of the moment for she was truly happy. Now, in a quiet village just within the castle walls of Zamboanguita, lies your bookworm, artist, gamer, and study-is-life gal, Mary Joy Tabares also known as MJ, and Joy for her few close friends, since she views herself as barkada-less with
of NORSU-Mabinay, and was crowned at the university coveredcourt on January 22. He felt astonished hearing his name as the Mr. Mabinay. “I only want to be part of the top five but I’m too blessed to be crowned as Mr. Mabinay,”he said. “Excellent! I’m so proud to have a friend with such courage in
giving a very well inspiring answer which convinced not only the judges but also the people who witnessed the event.” Khem Camporedondo, Fernandez friend said. Aside from Nelger Fernandez, Kent Paul Bison, an education student got the first runner-up award. The event lasted until 2 a.m. on January 23.
mostly passing acquaintances. She is two decades young, born on December 16, 1997, greeting all Sagittarius people with a smile. Mary Joy is a Bachelor of Arts (AB) student major in Social Science who believes that her course may not be challenging to some, but is mind-blowing when taken. She even mentioned the struggles every enrollment week and being a regular visitor in the Registrar’s office. “Wala jud makapilde namong mu-gama og letter kada enrollment kay suki na mi sa registrar,” she said with a hearty grin. She wants everyone to
know how conflicting it is to have Earls, Dukes and Knights from books as her boyfriends. She said that she couldn’t find men like those in real life, so she branded herself as part of the singles’ club. She has a secret though— she wants someone like Maxon from Keira Cass’ The Selection Series. After four years of staying lowkey in this institution, aside from staying 24 hours awake just to finish a book, she can finally achieve another extraordinary moment— to graduate… and hopefully, build her own bee farm. Yup, that sure is weird.
Photo by Kim Eden Felize B. Belnas
P50M nat’l museum to house Dgte Presidencia
FOR A NEW PHASE. The groundbreaking ceremony held last January 24 to restore the old Presidencia built in 1937 and become a National Museum in Dumaguete City. Faith Jessica E. Alejano
A historical P50million worth national museum shall soon be the new face of the old Dumaguete City Presidencia after its groundbreaking ceremony on January 24.
Felipe Antonio Remollo, Dumaguete City mayor proposed the project on turning the old Presidencia building into a national museum. The mayor expressed his excitement on this historical moment of restoring it,
considering his fascination with the past as a history major. “We are really committed to bring back the beauty, glory, and importance of the heritage as one of the city’s structure, and to be with P50M nat’l/ to page 8
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NORSU intramurals cancelled
ECSTASY OF SPORTS. Powered athletes representing their respective colleges armed with their serves and spikes during the intramurals of 2015. Angeleah Grace J. Acaso
Uni v e r si t y ’ s annual intramurals will not push through this year due to hectic preparations for the national State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) competition. Sports and Athletics director Robelo Padernal confirmed they will not be able to pursue it, “Apiki kaayo,”due to the preparation of the upcoming national SCUAA. The supposed schedule of the event was on the first week CAMPUS IMAGE/ from page 4 Despite everything, she remained positive and trusted God. She aims to finish her studies and plans to build a FAITH/from page 5 healing will continue to thrive for years to come, as long as we still have the Glossolalia/ from page 4 concepts. Thus, he concluded that the speakers might believe it to be a real language, but was totally meaningless. In addition, Hungarian anthropologist Felicitas Goodman compared the Christian glossolalia with recordings of rituals from Japan, Indonesia, Africa and
The NORSUnian File Photo
Sharlyn Torres
of February; however, he said the intramurals was already scheduled on the 22nd of September next school year. After hearing the postponement, Jamaica Lozada, a junior Bachelor in Elementary Education student expressed her dismay on the cancellation of university’s intramurals saying, “Dili na sya pareho sa una atong first year ug second year pami.” Renante Gibang-gibang Jr., College of Business Administration (CBA) governor said that they were not informed with the said cancellation.
“Maybe there are some reasons nganong dili ma dayon [intramural] pero if kabalo sila nga yearly activity dapat ila pong gipangandaman,”he said. Gibang-gibang pointed out the importance of the students’ involvement in this kind of event as they can learn new things not limited inside the classroom. “It should be anticipated to have an annual intramurals... samot na’g naay daghang students nga naay potential sa mga sports,” a junior Business Administration student, James Walog said.
house for her father. Maybe then, she can look for ways to finally see her mother, again. It has been five years already,
but she knows there is a perfect time for everything. All she has to do is to wait in patience.
undocumented mystery not. of cure and monetary With reference from www. constraints— believe it… or reformedreflections.com Borneo, and concluded that there was no distinction; that it is truly common and easily crosses religious divides. Humans are spirit beings, clothed with a boneflesh body. In the world where there are truths and lies just before your eyes, how will you manage the
goodness in life? Science explains everything in this world, but fails to give values like religion is offering. With references from charismamag.com, ecstaticspeech.blogspot.com, letgodbetrue.com, skepticalscience.com
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VOL XXXV ISSUE NO 28-29 JANUARY 15 - JANUARY 26, 2018
Photos by Kenneth Carlorio S. Surilla and Ma. Angelica G. Ho
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FOR HEALTHIER TEETH! NORSU dental clinic provides free dental services to Norsunians and conducted poster contest for this years theme for dental health.
Norsunians enjoy free dental services up ta kay mahal.” University dentist Marites Electona said dental health awareness aims to reach out for Norsunians to be reminded to maintain good dental health. “I wrote the dental bulletin. It will be disseminated to you for recent info on how to take good care of your teeth,” she added. Among the four invited dentists for the dental services were Dr. Manolo Imbo, Dr. Felipe Gil Elmido Jr., Dr. Kirby Prinz Elmido III, and Dr. Allen Lloyd Tabio. Meanwhile, Norsunians joined in several activities including the search for
Mister and Miss Perfect Smile, and poster making contest. With 18 listed students, Harvey Iquio, a junior BS Information Technology student was one of lucky winners for Mr. Perfect Smile. Iquio said he was not expecting to be chosen as one who has the perfect smile, and he felt very proud. For the poster making, Architectural Drafting students dominated the competion, with Elmer Mapula as first placer, Jessa Araneta, Aljun Belardo, and Samuel Calidguid Jr., grabbed the second, third and fourth places, respectively.
UNIVERSITY DIARY / from page 4 told me that I wasn’t alone true, I just didn’t want to in my room. The night I got believe it. mad about my bad dream “Hey. I’m sorry I said and said mean things about bad things about you. We’ve them, the other elements been roommates since we living in my room must’ve came here and I know you disapproved it. My mom won’t do anything bad to us. said that I had to say sorry. Can we be fine again? I am I was thinking I’d really sorry,” I apologized look stupid if I’d talk to and went out of the room to something I can’t even see, have my breakfast. but I chose not argue with That afternoon, I slept my mom. After all, it was in my mother’s room. My
vision was in a blurry when a girl, looking my age or younger, went inside the room. She then hugged me so tight, I could barely breathe. I wondered who she was and asked her, but she just hugged me and said, “I am sorry.” I woke up. Alia is a second year education student in the university.
Infographics by Jeke Cris G. Rocaberte
Angeleah Grace J. Acaso
UNIVERSITY/ from page 5 I tried absorbing both parties’ insights and emotions. I understand my Mom because she was betrayed. She is a mother, the legal wife, and most importantly, a woman. I know the pain she’s undergoing even up to now. I understand her. I understand my Dad because a father would always love to see his children together. I understand that no matter how painful the situation is, he had to face it. I understand him. I understand them. I do because I love them so much. And now, the clouds pour heavy rain. We couldn’t see things clearly. It’s affecting us
no matter how hard we try. But we have to keep moving forward. For me, the jar is just almost broken and not totally shattered. Hope, there is. Love, I know there should be. Things are getting worse because it reached social media but everyone in the family has to believe that the components inside could faithfully be settled. We have to stay calm. We have to be more prayerful. If I would have to kneel down in front of my parents, I will do it. I don’t want the concept of a broken family because I don’t want to fear marriage. I don’t want to have a broken family because that’s
where broken hearts root from. Behind acceptance, I know, are questions and hopes that only in daydreaming remain. Endless what-ifs will reside in our minds and scars will forever be carved in our hearts. Balance will be lost, adjustments, agonized eyes, scratched wounds, crying nights… what else? Everything else. But no one should lose hope. Things are going to be fixed. Blossom initially dreamed to be an astronaut but was unfortunately incapable so now, despite such fall, she still wants to courageously explore life and defy gravity on ways she sees as adventure.
Kicking off the 14th National Dental Health Awareness Month, Norsunians enjoyed the free dental services on January 26 at the university dental clinic. “Opportunity na ni sa mga Norsunians nga makapacheck-up sa ilahang mga tango...para pud happy smile tanan,” Vicente Olasiman Jr., a junior BS Business student said. Ma. Christina Alberino, a freshman of Hospitality Management student said, “Okay kaayo nga naay free dental check-up kay kanang sa gawas nga magpa-check-
the ambitious plan- of the city mayor with the slogan LUPAD Dumaguete,” Geremy Barns, Philippine National Museum director said. Meanwhile, Nancy Roxette Abuyabor, an Associate in Medical, Dental, Nursing Assistant (AMDNA) student said the museum will improve the city’s tourism and it is a privilege. “Maayo kay makahatag siya og knowledge sa youth and sa tanan about sa history sa Dumaguete,” Dandie Español, a senior BS Information Technology student said. Together with Negros Oriental governor Remollo, Roel Degamo also spearheaded the ceremony with the support of the
Dumaguete City heritage council, local government officials, foreign students from Silliman University (SU) and the national museum officials. With the current restoration of the old building managed by the 401 Development and Construction Corporation, the offices of the city government officials and staff were temporarily transferred. The national museum is expected to be open to the public on July 8, 2018. Built in 1937, the old Presidencia was designed by one of the great Filipino architects Juan M. Arellano to serve as the seating area of the government during the Spanish times.
Infographics by Javan Lev A. Poblador
P50M nat’l/ from page 7