Vol. XXXI | Issue III
January - March 2018
The Official Student Publication of the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA - Las PinÑas
The Perpetualite
Empowering Students Through 31 Years of Balanced Journalism
(F: L-R) (1st Row: Rizalino Salo, Ridzuan Muhali, Jeric Atentar, James Mark Bation,Jay-jay Solamilo, Gilbert Balmores, Sean Taneo.; 2nd Row: Sir Martin, Coach Lucky, Coach Coach Joaquin, John Patrick Ramos, Ronniel Rosales, Jack Kalingking, Warren Catipay, Landhelle Nuqui, Joebert Alomodiel and Rey Taneo.) ALTAS Men’s Volleyball Team meaning their medals as they take home UPHSD’S 11th NCAA crown.
Altas completed a comeback; Takes home 11th NCAA Volleyball Crown
CEO’S CORNER:
GROW & BLOOM Just like the New Year, the new school year signifies the beginning of new oppurtunities and challenges in school. Things that took place in the previous semester become learning expereinces which are imporant to grow and matyre. As educators, our mission is to constantly plant, water and nurture every student until they are ready to join the workforce and face the real world. Growing up was a big challenge for me. As a teenager, I disliked formal education. My parents, Dr. Jose Tamayo and Dr. Josefina Tamayo, struggled to persuade to go to school and to take my studious seriously. They never gave up guiding, loving and praying for me. And because of their spiritual intervention,
by MIGUEL PAOLO BAYLON
emotional support, and intellectual nourishment, I finally matured and bloomed. I chose the road least traveled. My journey success has been marked with colorful adventures, misadvantures and sometimes, wanderings. but those events taught me lessons. Growing and blooming really take. But as long as you have strong foundation, a loving family, a good education and the will to change, you will also overcome the growing points. As Denis Waitley would say “As long as we are persistence in the pursuit of our deepest destiny, we will continue to grow. We cannot choose the day or time when we will fully bloom. It happens in its own time.”
DR./BGEN. ANTONIO L. TAMAYO, AFP, FPCHA, Ph.D. Chairman of the Board and CEO/ Founder
who
bagged 1st Place in the Dance Competition in the 38th PACSA and 22nd PACSL
NEWS | 3
/theperpetualite
wHY
MANILA, Philippines- The Las Piñas based squad pulled off a comeback win, 23-25, 27-25, 25-19, 25-23, and claim back the NCAA Men’s Volleyball crown as they ousted the Arellano Chiefs in a do-or-die Game 3 last February 22 at San Juan Arena. The Chiefs almost claimed the trophy with their thrilling 5-setter Game 1 win, however, with a much roaring game plan, the ALTAS forced a deciding game with the 26-24, 25-20, 23-25, 25-16 triumph on Game 2. The Rookie-MVP Joebert Almodiel who scored 19 points on 16 attacks and three blocks lead the Perpetual Help in terms of scoring. However, Rey Taneo showed great leadership as he had to switch to setter position on the last part of the first set after the Best Setter of the season Warren Catipay had to be pulled off the court with the right foot injury, and finished with 11
are Karencitta and IV OF SPADES rising OPM artists?
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@theperpetualite @lalaperps
points and 22 excellent sets. Moreover, Game 3 was indeed a heart-stopping game that took the audiences at the edge of their seats with both teams showing their determination to claim the trophy. In the last part of the first set, the Chiefs lead the Catipay-less ALTAS, 23-21, but the Perpetual established a 2-0 run to tie the score. The Chiefs, however posted a 2-0 run consists of attack from Kevin Liberato and Christian Segovia and drew first blood, 25-23. The ALTAS was able to establish their momentum as they take the lead with an attack error from Arellano’s Segovia, 24-23. The Chiefs, however answered back with John Joseph Cabillan’s back to back attacks claiming the lead with 25-24. The ALTAS tallied a 3-0 run with crosscourt kills from Taneo and Almodiel. Ronniel Rosales fired up a service ace that ended the set.
whAT
will be the future of the Senate now that Tito Sotto is leading it?
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Perpetual Help takes the early lead at the third set, 16-8, Arellano’s Christian de la Paz, however trimmed down the lead with 17-14 but the ALTAS continues to dominate the set with 25-19 win. The Chiefs takes the early lead with 6-1, which ballooned to 19-12. But with ALTAS crowd cheering “ALTAS! PUSO” gave their team motivation to showcase their love to their Alma Mater. The ALTAS was able to post a 10-2 run and seize a 22-21 lead. De la Paz fired a clean attack that tied the the set but was retaliated with Taneo setting up James Bation and Ridzuan Muhali for back to back kills. De la Paz was able to save one match point but the ALTAS responded with Taneo setting up a perfect set to Patrick Ramos for quick play that sealed the match. photo by PATRISHA ANNE SALGADO
how
do you deal with plot twists in life?
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2 NEWS
UNIVERSITY OF PERPETUAL HELP SYSTEM–DALTA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
DR. / BGEN. ANTONIO L. TAMAYO, AFP, FPCHA, Ph.D. Chairman of the Board and CEO Founder, University of Perpetual Help System DALTA DAISY M. TAMAYO, RN, MAN, Ph.D. Vice Chairman of the Board and Treasurer Co-Founder, University of Perpetual Help System DALTA ANTHONY JOSE M. TAMAYO, CPA, MBA, Ed.M, FBE Member President, University of Perpetual Help System DALTA LTCOL. RICHARD ANTONIO M. TAMAYO, PAFR (SOC), BSBE, MBA-H Secretary President, Perpetual Help Medical Center MARIA CONSORCIA L. TAMAYO, MBA Member
The Perpetualite Christian Paolo Adoray |
Editor-in-Chief/ Lay-out artist Patricia Meliz Gerome Labramonte | Associate /Literary Editor Joanne Marie Ayton | Managing Editor JUVAL ZERIC FONTANILLA | News Editor Jeremy Aldrin Velasco | Features Editor Christhel Jane Cuazon | sports Editor Jervin Renz Felipe | forum Editor Kristianne Eugene Mayo | Chief Photographer Mike Aron Arevalo | Chief Artist
PHOTOGRAPHERS
ARTISTS
Janella Fe Doncillo
Jillian Maxine Agustin
Patrisha Anne Salgado
Ephrem Eleazar Castillo
Cristela Marie Natalaray
Allan Cendrik Vargas
Jonas Ian Catiggay
Matthew Israel Manes
Frances Rowena Rojero
Carl James Tabora
Chantelle Maniobra
Erica charisse romero
Mitzi Marie Dolorito
Liezl therese lirio
Alysa Mae Arenas
EDWIN A. MORAN, BBA Member ANTONIO ROMULO G. TAMAYO Member
WRITERS MigWuel Paolo Baylon
Camille Therese San Andres
Nicole Angelique Martinez
Ryan Kyle Noel Correa
Madelaine Paterno
RACHEL ANTONETTE G. TAMAYO Member
adviser Ms. rowena g. morta
JOSEFINA VIRGINIA G. TAMAYO Member
PDC wins 4th place in Sayaw Hataw 13 by MIGUEL PAOLO BAYLON
PERPETUAL DANCE COMPANY (PDC) landed at 4th place in Sayaw Hataw 13 – an annual dance competition organized by the Bedanz Dance Troupe of San Beda College Alabang held at Alabang Town Center last December 17. The competition was participated in by different schools from Metro Manila and nearby cities and provinces. Sayaw Hataw aims to celebrate the love for the art through dancing and to showcase each other’s creativity, uniqueness, and talent. Eventhough it’s their first time to join, Perpetu-
al Dance Company danced Meanwhile Nica Lutheir way to make the Per- nasin, a senior member of petualite community proud. PDC, is still very thankful even if they weren’t able to In an interview, bring home the first place. Christine Cruz Gapasin, the The team’s goal is to gain exteam’s instructor said “The 4- perience by exposing themminute routine that we show- selves through competitions. cased was made by family. It’s very special because it’s not “We are not aiming just choreographed by me, to win and get the prizes, the members were also able we were there beto contribute to our routine.” cause we want to be part of the South Gapasin had been society. We want them to the team’s moderator for a know the PDC and to showyear and she is happy with case what PDC can do, the development of her team and also to praise God. At members. “Ang laki ng inim- alam namin di kaming uuprove nila not just with their wing luhaan,” Lunasin said. skills but their relationship with each other,” she stated.
Student’s Fair 2018: Diversity in OPM Artistry by RYAN KYLE NOEL CORREA and PATRICIA MELIZ GEROME LABRAMONTE IF there is one word to describe the recent University Week with the rise of both old and new OPM bands it would be ‘diversity’. Last February 12, the Acacia Drive was once again filled with a crowd full of Perpetualites who were thirsty for a taste of Original Pilipino Music, with abundant live performances from different indie bands invited to hype the excitement of the students. Among the bands were Paru-Paro, Rio, Miji, Turbo Mouse, This Band, which performed their viral “Kahit Ayaw Mo Na” song, Cinco de Kalyo, Evergreen, with the lead singer, Juan Viktor Villena, an AB Communication student from the College of Arts and Sciences, VSTheWorld, Kemisthree, Cinco and DJ Euphoria. They each played their heart-pumping sets composed of both original compositions and song covers that were lyrically known by everyone during
the much anticipated event. Moreover, the most awaited artist for the night was Tanya Markova, with their comical presence on stage and last-song-syndrome-worthy hits such as “Linda Blair”, “Disney”, “Picture Picture”, “Da Facebook Song” and “High End”, it was indeed a curtain call with their performance. W h e n asked on what inspired them to form the band, their lead vocalist, Norma Love, shared, “Yung pagmamahal namin sa music ang nag-inspire sa amin. Kasama na yung pagtugtog at ang pagpapasaya sa tao.”
NICA
LUNASIN CHAMPION CONTEMPORARY/ I N T E R P R E TAT I V E DANCE CATEGORY PRESIDENT, PERPETUAL DANCE COMPANY
SUPREME STUDENT COUNCIL BATCH 2017-2018
Kayo ang dahilan kung bakit patuloy pa rin kaming gumagawa ng music.” Despite not being on top of the music charts that much anymore unlike in their early years, they are still very persistent in making music. Norma Love strongly mentioned, “Tugtog lang dapat kayo ng tugtog. Improve lang kayo ng improve. Gawa lang kayo ng gawa ng kanta,” as a message to all aspiring Filipinos, young and old, who wants to pursue and take on the path of sharing music. Nevertheless, Iwa Motors shared that Tanya Markova is more than eager to perform in the University, considering that it has already been their 3rd time performing for the U-Week, he ended the interview with, “Iba yung vibe dito, solid basta mga ka-Perpetualite. Hanggang sa uulitin! Rock on!” photo by
PATRISHA ANNE SALGADO
Lunasin Bags 1st Place in PACSA and PACSL Dance Meet by RYAN KYLE NOEL CORREA
NICA PAULA LUNASIN won 1st place in the Contemporary/ Interpretative Dance category during the 38th Philippine Association of Campus Student Advisers, (PACSA)
and 22nd Philippine Association of Campus Student Leaders Annual (PACSL) held last November 25-28, 2017 at Teacher’s Camp in Baguio City. Nica Lunasin, a 4th year BS in
photo credits to:
In addition, the band was also recognized for their makeup and costumes while on stage, with each of the members having their own persona while performing, “Yung tugtugan kasi naming noon maingay, black metal, hanggang sa naisip naming na mag-pop na rin kami sa suot namin,” candidly said by Iwa Motors known to be the funniest and every gig’s crowd-favorite bell. As a band with hardcore supporters across Manila, they wanted their fans to know how much they mean to them, stated by Heart Abunda, “‘Wag kayo sanang magsawa. Sana suportahan niyo pa rin mga kanta namin kahit ‘di naman na kami ganun ka-sikat tulad dati.
3
Secondary Education major in MAPEH and President of Perpetual Dance Company (PDC), performed a winning interpretative dance rendition of Lea Salonga’s cover of
“Paraiso”, a song about nature. With limited time to rehearse and not letting the pressure get the best of her, she managed to deliver an astounding performance on stage. It was an unexpected win for everyone. “Hindi ko inexpect manalo. Hindi ako kinabahan na baka ‘di ako manalo, kinabahan ako na baka ‘di nila magustuhan ‘yun performance ko.” Lunasin said.
Being a part of the Perpetual Dance Company (PDC), Nica has experienced dancing hip-hop yet she still sticks to her contemporary roots. “I express my feelings through contemporary [dance]; the movements are so graceful,
very soft and chill. Any choreography can be done as long as you deliver and create steps that can be explainable and understandable to the audience.” “Every dance has a story. It deals with the idea or concept of the individual to make dance creative and to retain its artistic value” Lunasin added. It was her fluid and powerful movements which delivered the essence of the song that made her shine among the other competitors. Selected Perpetualite student-leaders and advisers participated in the 38th PACSA and 22nd PACSL national convention with the theme, “Promoting Academic & Extra-Curricular Advancements while Pursuing Advocacies in Community Service.”
4 FORUM LALA
PERPETUALISTA
KAWAY kaway sa mga ka-chikahan ko diyan! Hay naku, ang dami ko ng kwentong naipon para sa inyo, sabi nga nila summer na summer ang init sa Pinas. Nakakaloka. Pero hindi lang si mother earth ang mainit, pati na rin ang mga chika kong nagbabaga. Kaya ‘eto na, simulan na natin ang nagliliyab na mga istorya.
naman tayong tinuturo dito, kaya kalma lang mga beshies. Chill muna. Pakinggan niyo lang ang opinyon ng ka-kosa ko. Hays. Nakaka-istres. Kaya tuloy, ang konti ng dumalo. Grabe, kung punong-puno noon ang field, hindi nga lang nakalahati ang Acacia Drive. Siguro sa sunod dapat full information dissemination lang ang kailangan, bawasan na ONE SHIRT TO SAVE ‘EM ALL din ang barrier at mga bounc Kung merong isang er mga bes! Kase at the end of bagay na pinakahihintay ng the day, ang U-Week ay para mga ka-dyosang estudyante ng sa mga estudyante at sa kasiyaPerpetual, yun ay yung Uni- han ng mga estudyante dapat versity Week. Maliban kase sa nakatutok pansin. Ganern! walang klase, aktibo ang mga estudyante sa University games STRIKE ALL THE WAY at iba’t ibang ganap all around Idagdag pa yung tipong the campus. Kaya bongga ang finals week na pero ilang beses mga #OOTD ng mga ka-Perps kanselado ang exams mo dahil sa limang araw na yun. Kaso, sa nationwide strike, nakakaion the other hand, may na- yak besh! May mga ganap pa sagap akong chika na bawal nga na pagdating mo sa classpumasok sa mga much await- room sabay announce ng proed events kung hindi naka- fessor niyo na the exam will suot ng prominente at put- be moved next meeting. Isa ing-puti na University Week pa, dagdagan pa ng nakakashirt. Oh, wait, teka lang, wala lokang pag-abang mo ng jeep
FORUM:
kase nga walang dumadaan na Zapote-Kabila (hello sa mga taga Cavite diyan), kaya ayun, nag walk-a-thon papuntang SM Center para lang makasakay. Oh, the things you do para sa edukasyon. Kaya ayun, mga beshies, mag-aral ng bonggang bongga para sa sunod hindi na mag co-commute, makakadrive ka din ng Honda at magiging car gal. Ayun, set your goals lodi! LAMON CRISIS Bago tayo pumunta sa pinakanagliliyab na istorya, nagkaroon ng pangyayaring nakakaloka sa panahong hindi ko na babanggitin na na-involve ang mga taong hindi ko na rin ipapakilala dahil napakasensitibo nito. Pero bakit ko pa ipagkakalat dito kung sensitibo ‘yung topic na ‘to? Simple lang yan- involved kasi ang pagkain. Alam naman natin lahat na mahilig tayo lumamon nang lumamon kahit na minsan alam natin na expired o nalamigan. Ehem.
WHAT'S YOUR MOST UNEXPECTED PLOT TWIST?
Katahimikan para sa lahat. ‘yung malapit satin, sila pa ‘yung pwedeng makasakit satMAID TO SAFETY in. Kaway kaway sa mga bes ko! Eto na ang istoryang in- Kaya mga Perpetuaabangan ng lahat para ichika alites, kailangan lagi tayong ko sa lahat ng mga Perpetualites. extra alert and extra care Alam naman na- ful kasi hindi natin alam tin ang karumaldumal na ang iba’t-ibang motibo ng kaganapan sa isa sa mga mga tao sa paligid natin. deans natin sa kolehiyo. Hanggang diyan Sa panahon ngay- na lang muna mga beshon, hindi na natin alam kung ies! Tweet n’yo lang ako sa sinu-sino pwedeng manakit @LalaPerps para sa mas satin. Minsan, kung sino pa maraming chika. Sa uulitin!
Plot twist??? Ahhhh parang ginawa niya sakin, tinwist niya lang ako paulit ulit. - Alcanzare, Ervin 3rd Year BSBA MM Siguro that time na I thought i was sure of what i want because everyone was encouraging me to do something that puts me in a high place pero it turns out sila pala yung may mag bi-bring sakin pababa from that spot. - Damaso, Christian Ryan
Umasa akong kinausap ako ni crush, yun pala social experiment lang. Iyak ako besh. - Snow White 4th Year BS CE
Yung tipong excited ka na, yun pala hindi ikaw yung gusto niya, iba pala. Hindi man lang sinabi nang maaga kung sino ba sa aming dalawa yung gusto niyang makasama - Oller, Vianca Faith Yung akala mo asukal yung asin. - Chef-in-the-making 3rd Year BS HRM
Akala ko M.U. kami, yun pala na #KapatidZoned lang ako. Aruy! - Chinito 3rd Year BS TOURISM
Nag wave siya, nag wave back ako. Pero hindi niya ako sineen kase sa iba pala siya nakatingin. *facepalm* - Chum Bucket 4th Year BS IT
5 REVIEWS
WONDER:
AN EXTRAORDINARY STORY OF INNER BEAUTY, LOVE, AND FRIENDSHIP by JUVAL ZERIC FONTANILLA
“My name is August. I won’t describe what I look like. Whatever you’re thinking, it’s probably worse.” If you’ve ever been to a bookstore, chances are you’ve seen a sky-blue book with a poorly drawn head of what seems to be a boy with one eye. It may not look like much but read behind the covers and you’ll find more for what you bargained for. Wonder is the story of August Pullman – or Auggie as called by his family – a
home-schooled child finally attending an actual school for his fifth grade while dealing with the daily struggles of balancing life, family, and schoolwork. Sounds normal, right? Well the thing is, August is far from what you may think as normal. With a severe craniofacial abnormality – congenital deformities in the growth of the head and
facial bones – and 27 operations for the past years, surviving school doesn’t sound so typical anymore. When people catch a glimpse of him, people either stare or turn away quickly. To August, this is perfectly normal. He’s used to this. But going to school is a whole other story. As his father describes “like leading a lamb to slaughter”, a phrase August is confused with but will eventually come to understand the hard way. Through the course of the story, Auggie will suffer a series of bullying, treachery, sadness, and eventually a fight he didn’t ask for. But along the way, he will discover friendships in the most surprising ways— self-confidence—and that it’s perfectly fine to be extraordinary. R.J. Palacio cultivated a story in which addresses
issues that no one would normally find in a typical children’s book, tackling something miserable, rare, and real – making it bizarre in its own right. Furthermore Palacio’s character, August Pullman, is easily lovable. Despite how the book constantly describes his sad case, he is someone you would love not out of sympathy but simply out of love for him. A truly brave and charming boy, someone who can’t be hushed just because of the way he looks – an embodiment of inner beauty. Palacio pulls in the readers to experience August’s story in different angles, helping to understand Auggie’s situation and struggles in better lighting. Coupled with the vibrancy of each character, it makes the story more engrossing and memorable to the readers.
Voldemort: Origins of the Heir A film made by fans for the fans by JOANNE MARIE AYTON
We all know the story of the boy who lived and his journey in the wizarding world: since the day he first set his foot in the well-known school of wizards, Hogwarts, until the time he defeated ‘you-know-who’. But aren’t you curious about the story of Tom Marvolo Riddle before he became Voldemort – the dark lord whom most of the wizards were afraid of? Well if the answer is yes, then die-hard Potterheads should put this film on top of their movie bucket list. With a limited fund of $15,000 that was obtained through a crowdfunding campaign which was announced on Kickstarter in 2016, Harry Potter fans led by Gianmaria Pezzato, who wrote, directed, and edited the visual effects and its producer, Stefano Prestia, made a non-profit movie about the story of Tom Riddle (Stefano Rossi), heir of Salazar Slytherin, before he became Voldemort and how the heir of Godric Gryffindor, Grisha McLaggen (Maddalena Orcali), tried to find Riddle’s diary in order for her to finish her investigation and stop Riddle from being fully-drowned by dark magic. The movie was claimed as a fanfiction and has no link with Warner Brothers and J.K Rowling herself.
The movie first got the attention of the audience when its trailer was officially released on Facebook and on YouTube last June 2017 which gained 3 million views in less than 48 hours. It had lit its flame again when its official trailer was released on YouTube last December 1, 2017. The 52-minute movie was then finally uploaded for viewing on YouTube last January 13 which already gained millions of views. The movie kicked-off with the scene showing two of Voldemort’s horcruxes – the items induced with dark magic in which Voldemort has intentionally hidden a fragment of his soul in order to attain immortality, which are his much treasured diary and the infamous Slytherin’s locket, it was followed by the scene wherein Grisha McLaggen was fighting her way pass the aurors guarding the headquarters where Riddle’s diary was hidden after being obtained in a far away land. The film also featured two another original characters which are Wiglaf Sigurdsson (Andrea Deanisi), heir of Rowena Ravenclaw, and Lazarus Smith (Andrea Bonfanti), heir of Helga Hufflepuff, both were friends with
Tom Riddle during their stay in Hogwarts which gives the writer of the film an A for the originality. However, this fan-made movie had a few flaws which weren’t excused in the eyes of the audience. First is the lack of flash of magic in it. The movie merely focused on the conversation of Grisha McLaggen and General Makarov about her intention in stealing Riddle’s diary and the flashbacks of Riddle’s life story which leaves the audience thirsty of more scenes which shows magic and bits of the wizarding world. Although the film showed a few wand tricks, it wasn’t enough for the taste of the Harry Potter series fans. The mismatching vocals are also quite noticeable especially in the scene wherein the four heirs are talking inside the Room of Requirements at Hogwarts. Amidst its flaws, this movie is still a must-watch for Harry Potter fans who want to feed the magical part in them in a whole new perspective and much detailed wizarding world. It may not satisfy the taste of some of the audience because of its technical inconsistencies, it still provided a fresh story and a new view of the magical world of Harry Potter.
Wonder is a story for all ages – teaching both children and adults valuable lessons in life. August’s story is truly a breather, especially in a world full of judgement and criticism. Readers are sure to pick a thing or two from the narrative. Much like how Wonder is physically presented, you can never really judge a book by just its cover. Despite the book cover’s simplicity and interesting quirk, the content more than makes up for it in such a way that’ll be unforgettable. Striking, funny, and truly engaging – that’s what Wonder is. Maybe next time you stumble upon the book with a poorly drawn face of a boy, have a look-see because it’s definitely worth the read. artwork by JILLIAN MAXINE AGUSTIN
hulagway
photos by Kristianne Eugene Mayo Patrisha Anne Salgado contributed by Love Naul
8 OPINION Cut the Bloody String: It’s Time to Say No OLD MAID IN THE CITY Patricia Meliz Gerome Labramonte
“Let people burn down bridges because you deserve to be respected, not neglected“ “It’s not you, it’s me.” Let’s begin by saying that this is not another ‘new year, new me’ article that would tackle about your daily fervent wishes and hopes that you honestly strive to commit yourself into. Here we go again with that word: commit. What is it exactly? Why do some people drown and is scarred with such word that eventually leads them to a serotonin-induced paradise? DISCLAIMER: This is not about love, or other people’s relationship goal. This time, it’s only about
You and the power of firmly saying “no” - because you deserve to master such art and to appreciate the unconventional beauty from it. Give yourself a break, don’t settle for the gutter, don’t bury yourself six-feet below the ground, stop embossing your existence with imaginary scales, it’s time to vanquish the “what if ’s” and to grasp the “I did”. But you see, people are still bothered when the idea of saying “no” would come into the stage - they will create a certain havoc of poisonous words filled with ignorance - a set of venoms that will linger in your ears.
The Beauty of Changes SAPPHIRE Joanne Marie Ayton
“We are the main character of the story we are writing. An autobiography of how we made it through the ever-changing tides of fate. “ An open letter to all graduating students, “Change is the only permanent thing in life.” that is what we always hear and believe. Change is inevitable. But the question is, are we ready for the possible changes that we may encounter? Or are we afraid to come out from our shell and face the reality beyond it? First, let me tell you a story. When I was 16 years old, I faced
the greatest ‘change’ in my life, well at least so far, it is when I had to leave my family in Bicol to live in Cavite and study here in our university. It was very hard for me because it was the first time that I will live away from my family. On my first day in Cavite only one thing was etched in my mind – it was fear. I was scared of all the possible circumstances that I might
ON RAPE CULTURE AND ADDRESSING THE STIGMA WOLF BITE Juval Zeric Fontanilla
“Rape is a very serious matter and should be addressed as such, not made fun of“ In a nation where crime is still rampant and criminals are still being raised, people would do well to try to cease violence whatever form it may be. But for whichever reason, people still find fault in people – even if it’s the victim itself. Rape is one of the most common cases in which people of-
ten blame the victim instead of looking at the culprit or the crime. Rape culture, a notion born from this practice, was designed to explain the ways in which society blamed victims of sexual assault, mainly in women. Although rape culture is already a practice done by many, even if some people aren’t really aware
However, that does not even matter because everything is just within the tip of your tongue. A single slur and a single sound that will set the distinction of you taking control of your life. In terms of psychological aspect, “Yes” means risk taking, a bountiful perception of courage and open-mindedness. There’s a grenade-oriented gem when it comes to the presence of “No” - a sturdy wall of integrity that separates you from the influence of others which cues in the ultimate tandem of self-respect and dignity. Yet, just like the fragility of Achilles heel, it is easily misunderstood and can be superficially labeled as rude. They say that it is braided with negativity, hence, some people couldn’t decipher the difference between being a pessimist and saying ‘no’. Regardless, the surge and the unnoticed strength of No is rarely chewed by people nowadays. Instead, it is stereotyped as a chronic attitude - which is certainly confused with the actual meaning of negativity. Negativity undeniably ensures that one will not be pleased, you’re not powerful, on the other hand, No instills a clear choice and
an affirmation of what was once a golden trash of indecisiveness during youth, had now gradually turned into an affluent and hard-rock truth of a punch-in-the-gut “maturity”. No is an unsullied commitment, yes, that word again. It sets up a perimeter, a presence of intrapersonal relationship within the mind and the soul. It is an electrifying fence, the lock within your door that supports that certain space of self-love and the often times misplaced, selfworth that people tend to forget. To cross-out the typical screen time of the Millennials and put on the stilettos and tuxedos of adulthood is actually a very mature thing to do. No means that one is in the verge of understanding and grasping that you are the capable of making a choice, your limit and your stand in life. But then again, the choices that one will make should always be based on pleasing yourself and never for others, because at the end of the day, you will only have yourself to face the world with your famous last words piercing through your ears. Now, where do you draw the line? As teenagers and even toddlers, a certain behavior will
start showing once you have made sense of what No really means. Even children in their early developmental stage have a power to choose, or for a fact, have known what they “want” and have created a mental image of what “No” will create. But No is also a twofaced friend, it is the one that we turn ourselves into and the one that separates us from others. Self-discipline sets the internal conflict whether or not you’ll give in to your destructive desires or stick with your principles. Self-worth gives value to your very existence by preventing you from degrading down your standards to fit in to other people’s definition of “just right.” So what are you waiting for? Delete irrelevant people, don’t invest in too much emotions on a single person, get yourself geared up in shooting ranges, hit the gym, try the Ketogenic diet, cut the invisible string, and put on a dignified barrier. Because at the end of the day it’s still about you. Let people burn down bridges because you deserve to be respected, not neglected, as you make your way towards the haven of mastering the art of saying ‘No’ with verdict and fire on your soul.
encounter and to all the days that I am about to face. I was not actually afraid of all these things but I’m terrified because I was alone. Days, weeks, and months passed, I learned to conquer all the fears that I had when I first came here. I met new friends whom I considered as my family. I learned to be independent and to love the beauty of solemn loneliness. It felt like I became a whole new person, from being a ‘spoiled brat’ and a needy teenager who can’t do anything by herself to a strong and independent young adult. What made me strong and independent? You asked. It is when I learned to embrace the beauty of change and also learning to swim with its waves. Fast forward and almost four years had pass. Currently, I am one of those fourth-year students who are aspiring to be among those who will proudly march at PICC with their parents and will receive their diploma this upcoming month of April. The following weeks will be the toughest because of all the requirements that we need to comply on time, but the finish line is
already just a few steps ahead of us and there’s no turning back. Still, the question lingers, am I ready to face this another big change in my life? Am I ready to delve into the real world? Or should I say, the ‘world of the unknown’? The life in the ‘real world’ is one of those things which cannot be learned inside the four corners of the classroom, it is something that every person will learn from their own experiences. Surviving in the ‘real world’ is something that will depend on how an individual perceives it and how he will deal with it. It is something that we will learn from nobody but ourselves. There are approximately a hundred thousand students who will graduate this academic year, and almost all of these future graduates will belong to those who are unemployed. Whether we accept it or not, finding a stable job is not an easy task. Nowadays, it takes a lot of patience and courage to be ahead of the competition. In this ocean that we call ‘the real world’, we should learn not to run away from the fishermen, we should
learn to swim past through all the other fishes and be the best one that every fisherman will be crazy about. As what I’ve mentioned, change is inevitable. It is everlasting. We should learn to accept this concept in order for us to be more prepared when the time came that we encounter it. Graduating from college is only the beginning of the whole new journey that we need to take. Yes, it’s true that our family and friends will be there to support us in this journey, but how we want our story to end depends on no one but ourselves. We are the main character of the story we are writing. An autobiography of how we made it through the ever-changing tides of fate. We will be the one who will steer the steering wheel of our own ship. There will be times that we will need to change course and there will be a lot of storms beyond our direction but what’s important is that we should learn to go with it. And soon enough without you knowing it, you will learn to embrace the beauty of change. KUDOS BATCH 2018!
they’re participating in it, people still don’t fully grasp the concept. It’s not necessarily a society or group of people that outwardly promotes rape; it’s actually instances in which people normalize, ignore, diminish, or make jokes about rape. Rape is a very serious matter and should be addressed as such, not made fun of. There’s a lot of things that people get wrong about rape, that is why people need to know what rape and rape culture really is. A lot of things in mainstream media contribute to this and people aren’t even aware about it. Here’s a fact: girls aren’t waiting to be raped by the way they are clothed or how they act. They are merely expressing themselves and I’m sure they know what they’re doing. These are one of the reasons why survivor-victims are not taken seriously. Also, don’t forget men can get raped too. As unlikely as it is, it happens that’s why peo-
ple should be educated and reminded at all times to get their head off the stereotypical thinking. People are so caught up in this kind of mindset that they forget the big picture. How about instead of looking at how these women dress is we re-educate ourselves on human rights, gender-based violence, and respect? Based on a 2015 PNP statistics, at least one Filipino woman was raped every 58 minutes. With that fact in mind I think it’s best to say that we should focus more on the prevention instead of pointing fingers at one victim to another. Schools should be working towards extending their teachings to sexual education and basic human rights-based modules, the best being started at an early age. A budget should be given to improving security: more CCTVs, lighted pathways, community patrols, etc. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECP), a contraceptive
preventing pregnancy from rape, should also be brought to light. Over 130 countries have registered ECPs yet the Philippines falls behind because of the current Reproductive Health Law that restricts access from purchasing these pills. Psycho-social counselling should also be given to rape victim-survivors as much as possible. Lastly, a stronger law preventing all forms of sexual and human rights violation should be passed. A higher penalty should also be given to coincide with such law. We live in a society where people teach more about how to “not get raped” instead of “don’t rape”. A lot of people in this society should instil in their minds that victim-blaming is violence in itself. Rape and rape culture is real. Don’t just be part of a large societal trend and be a beacon of knowledge to those who are uneducated on the topic. It is only through cooperation and proper education that we can put a stop to rape culture and rape-slays.
9
EDITORIAl TITO SOTTO: IS THE SENATE BECOMING A COMEDY BAR?
What’s scarier, a society that domesticates and limits woman, or a society that chooses to suffocate on ignorance and unconscious patriarchy?
knowledge, authoritative approach and alluring power that the Filipinos need to grasp, aside from the people coming from political dynasties, welloff businessmen, proclaimed The senate, a place hard workers and famous athwhere distinctive beings are letes, one of these distinguished known for their unlimited people is a renowned comedian
The Tragedy of Creative People HIDDEN GEM Jeremy Aldrin Velasco
“It seems that creative artists are getting underestimated, looked down at, unappreciated, and underpaid“ A photographer captures every angle of this special occasion that is said to be every girl’s day entering womanhood. An artist concentrates on a blank canvas with a brush in hand, waiting for that spark in his mind to be able to finish a commissioned task. A makeup artist brings her heavy makeup kit every time she is needed for an occasion that requires an expert retouching bare faces. These are only some of the creative people you see every now and then when people are in need of creatives’ services and they all face a single problem: Working hard then getting underpaid. Or worse, being asked to work for free. It seems that creative artists are getting underestimated,
looked down at, unappreciated, and underpaid. This is most likely due to the fact that customers do not see the essential role of an artist when they ask them to do their job. They [the artists] play an important part of a company or a person’s success because of that creativity that sets the customer’s uniqueness in the market. Based on an article from The Guardian, in the UK, at £10,000 (Php 702, 810) a year, artists Wreceive only 66% of the minimum living wage. Nearly three-quarters are just getting 37% of the average UK salary. In Canada, a typical artist earns $20,000 (Php 405, 827) a year, which is a 74% typical national income of $26, 850 (Php 1, 089, 645). On the other hand, the Philippines haven’t released any
that the Filipinos surely know by name, Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III now sits on one of the highest thrones in the country. Now, this is where the name Judy Taguiwalo comes into the scene, she is an eminent Social Welfare Secretary and a single mother. Taguistatements or articles regarding the problems that are arising among the creative people in the country. Although, a lot of creative artists, experienced or not, have already spoken up through social media, it is still not enough for the public to realize the importance of these creatives. I have experienced these kinds of situations before. I am a part-time events photographer and I have been getting underpaid in my previous part-time jobs. But during my first events, I was still calling myself an amateur, but as I continued to take photos, people have been asking why I’ve been receiving too little pay, and that’s when I realized I am underpaid because people don’t call me an amateur anymore and they kept pushing me to charge my clients appropriately. People have been claiming that doing these creative tasks can be easily done by themselves, so why hire people to do the job and pay them a higher price? Well, yes, anyone can make their own face prettier, anyone can click the shutter and take photos, and anyone can design their own products. But the catch is, you end up getting a product with a boring result – indistinguishable from the competition, which mean low profit for you. So if you don’t real-
walo has two daughters and had been raising her children alone. In a legitimate discussion in the senate, Taguiwalo had the chance to talk to Senator Sotto about societal affairs, what supposed to be a lawful discussion about several concerns and legal matters, immediately turned out to be a retrospect to her personal life and a stinging hit for being a woman. Senator Sotto said four words that showed the country how much he thinks the senate is the same as a comedy bar, “Na-ano ka lang.” In layman’s term, that certain phrase showcased how he perceives Taguiwalo, or how he perceives women on the first place. If explained, the phrase is a disrespectful term for the woman that just had a child with no father in presence. It just happened. That certain “happening” is what Senator Sotto pointed out in his Saturday Night Live version of the senate that day. Moreover, this is where the position of the Senate President (SP) will come into perspective as Senator Sotto was declared to lead the senate per the ‘peaceful and willing transfer of power’ will happen as Aquilino Pimentel III will step down from the said position.
In this case, there were a lot of mixed emotions and opinions coming from the Filipinos, some say that Sotto indeed deserves to be the SP as Pimentel shared that Sotto was ‘always present, always on time, always prepared’. However, the impact that Sotto had from the controversy regarding Taguiwalo still lingers within the mass media, for it does not only show how ‘insensitive’ Sotto was during the said incident but on how he undeniably perceives women as a whole. So this is where the million peso question shall be asked, “Is Sotto deserving to be the Senate President?”, some say yes, some say no. But what’s the stand of the society? What’s the stand of the people in the senate during that Taguiwalo controversy? A bummer, is that how our government works now? Or Senator Sotto is just one of the few, the rarest humans that couldn’t just keep their mouth shut if he has nothing good to say? Yet, at the end of the day, we could just hope that the Senate will still be logical and more Filipino-oriented when it comes to choosing a legitimately humane leader that knows the difference between joke time and a serious matter.
ly value the craft of an artist, you’ll never get a hit, and that’s where you really make money. Furthermore, you should never get an artist to work on your project if you’re not going to pay them a decent rate, and here are reasons as to why you should never underpay them. First of all, a professional would never charge you with an absurdly low price or is willing to work for free. However, if they do, it only means that they are unprofessional and an amateur to their craft. And this will greatly reflect on the end results, how they communicate with you, and how they’ll be able to deliver their finished product on time. Second, the community of artists are usually tight. You or your company might get a bad reputation for exploiting creative people, so the next time you hire a good professional worker, they might not work for you. Third, having artists work for you at a low cost or for free will make you feel like they’re doing you a favor. In that case, you won’t be able to give proper guides and information to help them with what they’re doing. You’ll feel uncomfortable giving feedbacks as well. Fourth, artists would be forced to use low quality materials to keep the costs down. This would mean that your art won’t last. In terms of makeup,
they’ll be forced to limit their capabilities as they know that they aren’t getting paid the right amount for the job they’re doing. Lastly, when the artist finished the job poorly, you’ll end up having to spend more time and more money on another professional to redo the poorly-made task. If it is an important business project, it won’t to invest money on an artist you hired because the end results would make wonders and would definitely give you a hit. Summing up, creative people need more recognition and appreciation from other people, especially the ones who hired them to work for their projects. They are an essential part of everything you ask them to do. They make huge differences and let people in competitions stand out from the crowd. A very important lesson to learn here is that creative artists aren’t merely tools for people needing their creativity. They are also people who are in need of a job, and they earn using their craft and their passion. Let’s all leave underpaying artists in the past. If you don’t value someone’s craft and all their hard work and resources, then don’t try to hire them at all.
10 FEATURE ‘Karencitta’ and ‘IV of Spades’, Your New Favorite OPM Artists by JEREMY ALDRIN VELASCO
In a place where half the population are engulfed by the widespread growth of western or foreign music, everyone would think that the Philippines’ own original compositions are non-existent. WRONG! Amongst the whole popular music that is rapidly growing in the country, there are two major artists that are standing out of the crowd and are becoming the Philippines’ viral artists: a strong and independent proud Cebuana who’s making a major twist in combining modern pop music with our own Original Pinoy Music (OPM); and a group of boys clad in color-coordinated, 70’s-inspired outfits who’s music are following the trends of the millennials obsessing over analog photography, old cartoons, and retro aesthetics. Meet Karencitta and IV OF SPADES! Karencitta, the Cebuana Everyone Needs Karen Ann Cabrera a.k.a. Karencitta is a 22-year old singer and online sensation from Cebu who released the song Cebuana last November 2017 that topped in Most Viral Music on Spotify Philippines. Her music video, which was released on Facebook, hit one millions views under 24 hours and was No. 2 on MYX by the month January 2018. But what made Cebuana a hit in the Philippines? Despite her song being heavily influenced by western music with its upbeat and electronic sounds, the 22-year old singer made sure to put a twist in her song by rapping in Visayan (Bisaya)—a Filipino dialect that is mostly spoken by over 20 million people in Central Visayas, parts of Eastern
“Ikaw na ang tahanan at mundo.” “You really need a Cebuana.” artwork by MATTHEW ISRAEL O. MANES photo courtesy of @IVOFSPADES | TWITTER
Visayas, and most of Mindanao. “Dapat madunggan pud ta sa Manila, sa whole Philippines. Sa tinuod lang ang Bisaya music kay dili man baduy bisag daghan nag-ingon,” shared Karencitta in an interview. (Dapat sabayan natin ang Manila, sa whole Philippines. Sa totoo lang, ang Bisaya music hindi baduy kahit marami nagsasabi) It was also revealed that she offered her song, Cebuana, to the recent Sinulog Festival— an annual cultural and religious festival held on the third Sunday of January in Cebu City, which is also the center of the Sto. Nino Catholic celebrations in the Philippines. Karencitta is one of the few solo artist other people should be inspired of as she takes elements of popular music and gives it a twist of her own style that incorporates herself being a proud Cebuana—taking OPM to another level. She was rejected multiple times in radio stations before to showcase her talent, but, now, she’s been receiving the recognition that she deserves.
All we have to do now is continue supporting her as we all support our favorite foreign artists. “I want to be the Filipino artist to say ‘This is original Bisaya music. You have to get familiar. We are talented, we have the skills, and we know what we’re doing.’” IV OF SPADES, the ‘70s Inspired Sensation Blending with the other rising Pinoy bands, this particular group has captured not only the ears of the millennials and the Gen Zs, but also those in the Golden Age who are still in this modern generation. IV OF SPADES composes of band members Zild Benitez (bassist), Badjao de Castro (drummers), Blaster Silonga (guitarist), and Unique Salonga (vocalist) all clad in color-coordinated ‘70s outfit, making them look like they’ve all just traveled from four decades ago then found themselves walking out in the middle of 2010s.
One could say that a band with ‘70s-inspired music would be a flop in modern times, but that’s where you’re wrong. The generation today are all obsessed with vinyl, analog photography, old cartoons, and retro aesthetics, it’s already obvious that IV OF SPADES would pass the generation’s taste. What makes IV OF SPADES stand out from other bands is their commitment to their styling and brand. There won’t be any gig that you’ll attend wherein they won’t be in their ‘70s outfits. In this modern era, the band isn’t only making music as they are committed into making art through every single detail of their outfits and through their music videos. “We’re not just doing music, we’re also making art. And we’re trying to communicate to people through art. So we want to visualize what they’re hearing. This is what we look like. The way we play our music—this is how you should portray it in your mind,” Zild shared in an interview with Scout, “We’re just dictating what we want them to see and
feel. And we’re really just experimenting along the way. We’re definitely taking it seriously, but at the same time, we’re being natural about it. Maybe after two years we’d be a different type of band.” The band started out as they played their first-ever released song Ilaw sa Daan at the Wanderband in 2015, only to be beaten by Oh, Flamingo! Because of this, the band was force to set on a hiatus status for a brief period of time. After months of not writing their own music, the group came back and played at the Scout Music Fest in which, by their surprise, they became the crowd’s favorite performer. “When we played at Scout Music Fest, we were just really surprised that people actually liked who we are while we were being ourselves,” Zild continued to share, “It was like, wow, people actually like us.” The group has already released two singles Hey Barbara and Where Have You Been, My Disco? and have been becoming hits as their videos gaining more than 700, 000 views in Youtube. The group mentioned that they would be releasing an album in the middle of 2018, so that is something fans and other people should look forward to this year. Two different types of artists but with one goal: to let the people know that OPM is not dead and that it has no limits. Both Karencitta and IV OF SPADES continue to make their music known, but they all just want to embrace Pinoy music and reach out not only to the country, but also to audiences outside reminding everyone that the Philippines can also make the music for everyone.
FACE
by PATRICIA MELIZ GEROME
LABRAMONTE
What face should I wear today? I’d probably cut my cheeks half, add some veins to be exact Or nibble my throat down my spine, as I pretend to talk, to see if I matter Oh, what a sad reality for my morphine-induced laughter Wait, have you heard the news? They say she got a lot of blue-colored views But I don’t think that’s true, for it was violet, you see As she danced her way towards the juicy thorns to be grittily free What face should I wear today? I’d probably begin by washing my hair, sticking gold in my teeth Tying my neck with sturdy braids, holding, gasping to breathe Yet they say it wasn’t enough, I have to be irrelevantly tough So I clicked the red button 1, 2, and 3: I self-distract My brain was around the corner, with molds green in color My eyes were ashes, as I struggled to wonder, “If this is the end, then I should be photographed to be remembered,” What face should I wear today? Now that’s a funny question, as I tried to dislocate my ribs A thinner hips, pouty lips, gluteus maximus is what I thoroughly preach So I made a scene, a mini-series of profound anatomy for the thirsty stoners A perplexingly pleasurable view for the lonely smokers, And it was satisfying, superficially satisfying to be praised So I painted the town red, my flesh all over the screen - raved, gazed But as I see more of the love they give, I swallowed my guts For I know that I no longer need saving from such fulfilling craving.
LITERARY 11
“SA ATING BAGONG YUGTO” by Joanne Marie Ayton
Halos apat na taon na ang nakalipas, Simula nang mayroong bagong pinto na nagbukas. Pinto na nagdala sa atin sa isa’t-isa, Pinto na nagturo sa akin ng bagong kahulugan ng saya. Sa loob ng apat na taon, kayo ang naging karamay. Sa lungkot man o saya, hawak niyo ang aking kamay. At ngayong tayo ay malapit nang magtapos ng kolehiyo, Hiling ko lang, sana walang magbago. Sabay-sabay tayong nakipaglaban sa buhay kolehiyo, Sabay-sabay tayong nabigo, pero sabay-sabay din tayong tumayo. Ang isa’t-isa ang naging kakampi sa lahat ng bagay, Sa loob man o labas ng paaralan, isa’t-isa ang nagsilbing gabay. Ilang linggo na lang ang nalalabi sa ating buhay kolehiyo, Pero isa lang sa inyo ang aking maipapangako, Dumating man ang araw na ako ay malayo, Hinding hindi kayo mawawala sa aking puso.
“WOULD
YOU
Here I stand in front of the open road And the world before me
Would you hold my hand and never let me go? Would you hold my hand and never let such misery flow? Would you hold my hand as if time goes slow? Would you hold my hand as we take the vow? Would you hold my hand and watch the two of us grow? Would you hold my hand ‘til the end?
The path leading me wherever I may go It’s trivial, challenging– Every time, every year I stumble upon this road Full of cracks and holes And definitely a lot of stones
I bet you would, but... you held my hand - yet you let me go you held my hand - but you let the misery flow you held my hand so fast, the world never turns slow you held my hand as you say your broken vow you held my hand - yet I watch the two of you grow you held my hand - yet it ended with me, alone, and your gentle sorrow.
However, there’s also beauty in it Trees, greenery, and gems hidden in plain sight It’s always different every year, this road Yet I always march forward And now, I set foot on the path No maps, no compasses Just my own sense of direction.
BEST
DURATION
by Ryan Kyle Noel Correa
by CAMILLE THERESE SAN ANDRES
How can an end be another beginning? When I always lose, never winning Where you always give your best in everything Yet to some, it’s more or less than nothing Expecting too much from you, Without getting the chance as you do Thinking you are, by stitch, perfect But still wasn’t enough for their limit When it’s for better or for worse Or when you put yourself first Praise won’t do you any sentiment More of a mediocre statement
Melody, Rhea, Angel, Rica, Rheenna, Dianne at Cheska,
Everything seems like a game The things I feel and see, still the same A pat on the back may feel like a slap on the face And I can’t keep up with the pace
Mananatili ako sa tabi niyo habambuhay.
by JUVAL ZERIC FONTANILLA
by JERVIN RENZ FELIPE
Hindi niyo man ako makita at makasama, Pagmamahal ko sa inyo ay hindi mawawala.
Asahan niyo na sa darating na panibagong yugto sa ating buhay,
OPEN ROAD
Putting your best foot forward - to strive, to lurk Getting it done as more than just a mundane work You really can’t have someone holding you back It’s time to take off the mask, move on and get back on track.
A flower planted where it does not belong. left unopened left untouched never been laid eyes to appreciate formed from a mistake of a couple discarded seeds, with no one to rely on and no one to provide. but the birds and the bees, and the sun and the trees. continuously growing changing and blooming. with the blades of grass swaying, and the budding flowers bending. the only one to visit and touch, was time itself. soon leaves are falling, petals wilting, and the once sturdy stem now, crippling. -discarding the thought, of the beauty that once stood.
12 FUN PAGE CALL TIME
PLATES
by JILLIAN MAXINE AGUSTIN
contributed by YKCOR ALLYSON STA. ELENA
THE ADVENTURES OF BARTOLOME by
NEW YEAR, NEW ME
MIKE ARON AREVALO
by JILLIAN MAXINE AGUSTIN
R E S O L U T I O N