ThePILLARS August 2021-July 2022

Ateneo, protect your students now!

For decades, Ateneo de Naga University (AdNU) has ingrained Ignatian teachings to its students such as living life with love and purpose, especially for the lost, the marginalized, and the vulnerable. Most of our student leaders and campus journalists have long been diligent in practicing these values outside the four corners of the classroom by actively joining movements and fighting for what is just. However, living a principled and mass-oriented life under an oppressive regime can pose a challenge, particularly to the outspoken youth who fearlessly reveal the truth. The realities faced by the current generation of Ateneo student leaders and campus journalists prove that today’s Marcosian rule does not fall far from its patriarch’s repressive measures back in the 70s’.

In times when oppression reigns, it is imperative that authority figures, like the university administration, make it their prime responsibility to wield their power to stand and protect their students. University administrators must prioritize their students’ security and welfare amongst other things. Though this may seem like the bare minimum, Ateneo still falls short in this aspect. Despite all the recent state-sponsored red-tagging incidents, surveillance, and threats to the Ateneo studentry, the university still has not heed the students’ calls for protection and support.

A proactive university administration upholding the rights of students remains a dream for AdNU student leaders and campus journalists.

Since July 2023, the official student publication of AdNU, ThePILLARS Publication, has been receiving information about an ongoing surveillance and harassment of its editors and staffers. It did not take long for the fear to settle in as the state forces targeted us one by one – starting from the alumni, then the current editors, following the regular members, and even down to the newly recruited apprentices. They follow the same narrative and tactics where they try to charm our parents with their sham sympathy and then later proceed to label our publication as a breeding ground for terrorists.

As of writing, four alumni have received threats; one was harassed by members of the state forces just outside the university gates; three have received letters from the Armed Forces of the Philippines; five have resigned due to fear and intimidation, and; six have been visited in their homes and are

still being persuaded by the state forces to comply to their unlawful demands.

Tino, a student activist from the Department of Media Studies, has endured repeated visits and intimidation from the Naga City Mobile Force Company. When he refused and tried to assert his rights, he was bullied into signing a document saying he would no longer aid the New People’s Army front organizations. With his illegally obtained signature on the document, Tino is put in further danger and injustice as it implies that he had associations with the front organizations — which he firmly refutes. Tino’s story is just one of the many unsettling cases of students who are currently being targeted by state forces.

Looking at those numbers and the fact that these cases have been going on for months, the silence of the university administration is truly alarming. The ongoing crackdown has been affecting the mental disposition of the students and unnecessarily instills fear in places that are supposed to be giving them security and peace.

Despite the constant efforts of the student leaders and campus journalists to call for concrete support from the administration, their calls remain neglected. The silence from the administration leaves the victims with no choice but to face this battle among themselves until the university heeds.

Now more than ever, it is vitally important for Ateneo to make its stance loud and clear. It is now the time for the university to prove that the Ignatian institution truly lives up to its principles of standing for the truth and the people. During Martial Law commemorations and other notable events in history, Ateneo has been known for its active participation in mass movements.

Today, we have seen how the university hang banners that said Never Again, Never Forget, No to Violence against Women, and other critical calls for justice at the famed Four Pillars. These acts will remain performative streaks if the university does not take action in the face of an actual injustice being done to their students.

ABOUT THE COVER

Death is often considered the most fear-inducing aspect of an individual’s life. Yet, in today’s context, students who are being ‘red-tagged’ are akin to walking dead on campus. Due to the relentless harassment they face and the lack of protection from the university administration, they have developed this idea that death would be the more preferable solution than continuously experiencing house-to-house visits by the military, being red-tagged, and having to live with the anxiety of being dragged, tortured, and killed anytime for merely speaking the truth. The victims unlocked another fear as if their time in this world is just another thing the administration has assumed control over with.

The imagery of skulls and the bold red hue serve as powerful symbols, representing the violated human rights and prevalent social injustices, specifically targeting innocent students.

In this critical issue, ThePILLARS Publication gives highlight on one of the heaviest challenges faced by students in this generation — where those in positions of power exploit their authority by trampling on the rights of students. The cover serves as a sharp representation of the ongoing red-tagging incidents, a grim reality haunting Bicol, including the targeted harassment and surveillance of campus journalists and student leaders at Ateneo de Naga University.

This is a crucial call to the Ateneo community, particularly urging the university administration to heed the strong plea of Ateneans: protect your students!

No matter how long the authorities cover their ears and continue living in ignorance, there is no denying that the freedom of the press is under attack. There is an ongoing crackdown on AdNU student journalists yet the administration remains mum. Though disheartening, this is not a sign to stop and live in cowardice, but this is a reminder of why we must stand our ground. Press freedom is a vital element of democracy. It is one of the causes our martyrs and Ignatian priests have fought for until their death. Let it not go to waste. Let not the oppressors claim another innocent life before we act. This is a call for everyone to let the fight live on. Layout by Edward Alipio

AdNU TO to revive TOFI

The University deviated from its annual tuition hike since the start of the pandemic, and with the transition to face-to-face classes, the school administration proposes to revive the annual tuition and other fees increase (TOFI) with a massive 7% increment.

For 18 years before the pandemic, the Ateneo de Naga University (AdNU) has been conducting annual tuition and other fee increases to boost their employees’ wages as well as to upgrade and maintain their facilities and equipment.

According to the AdNU Treasurer’s Office, the 7% proposed increase could not cover half the amount the university needs to catch up with due to inflation, and it is the midway for the students and the university with everything considered.

Due to the high inflation rate that the country experienced from the Duterte administration and the economic decline due to the COVID-19 pandemic, AdNU has been on a hiatus with the annual tuition increase and is operating without an increment in the fees since the academic year 2019-2020.

On 27 February 2023, a memorandum about the consultation for a TOFI was issued by the AdNU Treasurer’s Office, instigating a possible increase for the academic year 2023-2024.

Where will the TOFI go?

According to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Memorandum No. 3 in 2021, factors such as the financial standing of the university, the track record of the school, and the inflation rate are considered in approving TOFI.

The AdNU Treasurer’s Office explained that the university employees are the primary concern as they did not have any increase for the past three years.

Aside from the employees—upgrades for the facilities of the university are another concern to be considered for the TOFI.

“Nag-aabono ang university in the past years. The university is a nonprofit (institution) and the results of the increase is in line with the mission (and) vision (of the university),” Surara stated.

The AdNU Treasurer’s Office also implied that TOFI is necessary to better cater to the students and provide quality education. “Hindi naman talaga hindi mahal,” the office acknowledged.

“Sa 7%, hirap pa rin ang university, but it will allow them to catch up,” Surara added.

Impacts on Students

The discussions regarding TOFI triggered mixed emotions from the students.

“Anlaki ng 7% increase lalo na sa student na maraming laboratories pero baka magbebenefit naman in the long run as a first year student,” a first-year Civil Engineering student stated.

According to him, the weight of the load of his chosen program is increased by the proposed tuition hike.

“TOFI can really be felt especially in our program, Civil Engineering, where we use laboratories frequently and have many units so 7% is really big,” he explained.

Students’ problems do not only revolve around the large amount of tuition increase. The adjustment from blended learning back to face-to-face classes also brought difficulties to students.

“As of now, nasa transitioning phase pa rin naman tayo ng pandemic to new normal so masyado pang early for the tuition fee increase,“ a student

expressed.

Ateneans also voiced that several circumstances failed to be considered with the 7% proposal, especially the interests of the scholars, working students, students living with solo parents, etc.

“Mahirap na maghanap ng pera, lalo na ngayon na solo parent na si mommy,” a second-year Civil Engineering shared.

‘Not intended for everyone’

As per CHED Memorandum Order No. 3, “Notices must be sent to all parties involved and conspicuously posted on the HEI’s bulletin boards at least fifteen days before the consultation.”

Informing the student body about the consultation regarding TOFI is well under the responsibility of the AdNU Treasurer’s Office. However, only the heads of student organizations were provided with an invitation email to the said consultation, and information about the meeting and its contents were not made public.

However, the Treasurer’s Office explained that its decision to keep the TOFI Consultation discreet was based on ‘efficiency’.

“Yong email is the most efficient, kasi for sure ito ang mga tamang tao. And the student leaders are responsible enough to disseminate the information and to represent their body,” Vilma Prada, Budget Officer explained.

Furthermore, they added that social media is not an official means of announcement and that student organizations can talk among themselves to decide what to say in the consultation.

However, their choice for the mode of dissemination limited the audience to a minimum, keeping students who do not

belong or are not active in an organization unaware of the consultation.

In a report by ThePILLARS Publication last 28 March 2023, several students expressed their disappointment due to the lack of communication about the consultation. The survey revealed that only 8 out of 101 students were able to receive an invitation regarding the consultation. Of these, only 21 students were aware of the 7% increase proposal.

“Matters are confidential and TOFI is not intended for everyone,” Prada stated. Despite the backlash that the office received due to their means of delivering the information to the student body, they believe that the current process of information dissemination is effective.

Added burden

When asked about the said consultation in an interview five months later, a student from the College of Engineering stated, “To be honest, ngayon ko lang siya narinig actually. Siguro if nagka-chance na marinig ko ‘yon, I would be glad at least nainform ako about sa mga nangyari that day.”

The lack of knowledge about the consultation also caused alarm for students. “Siguro dapat na-inform ang students and parents kasi sila yung pinaka affected talaga,” a second-year Civil Engineering student expressed.

Even before the proposed tuition hike, students and parents already considered the tuition fees of the university expensive because of the burden of high inflation from the previous Duterte administration. With an ongoing battle against inflation and President Bongbong Marcos’ poor response towards the issue, this 7% proposed tuition increase poses a new challenge to the students and their parents.

■ Pilip Dolor

The Incline. Students line up for transactions with the Treasurer’s Office as the second semester begins in January 2022 at Ateneo de Naga University. Photo by Patricia Noelle Bongalos.

Layout by Suzienne Magno

WHO lifts COVID-19’s international health emergency status amid global concerns

Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus of the World Health Organization (WHO) announced at a media briefing on 5 May 2023 the lifting of the coronavirus disease 2019’s Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) status.

The decision is based on the resolution provided by the fifteenth meeting of the International Health Regulations (2005) Emergency Committee regarding the COVID-19 pandemic the previous day.

Nonetheless, Ghebreyesus reminds us that COVID-19 remains a global health threat; “If need be, I will not hesitate to convene another Emergency Committee should COVID-19 once again put our world in peril.”

Long Covid

Part of the integration of the virus into daily life is the commonplace occurrence of long COVID, defined by WHO as ‘the continuation or development of new symptoms three months after the initial SARS-CoV-2 infection… lasting for at least two months with no other explanation’.

In an article published in the Nature Reviews Microbiology journal by Davis et al. (2023), they identified ‘more than 200 symptoms with impacts on multiple organ systems’. Last 13 January 2023, approximately 10 to 20% (approximately 65 million) of people already infected continue to become long COVID.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has also observed increased susceptibility with persons

who had severe cases of the virus, had underlying health conditions preCOVID, and unvaccinated individuals since December 2022.

Relevance of IHR

Despite being the chief global health institution, the WHO is at its core a technical and normative agency, whose broad jurisdiction requires it to provide general recommendations pertinent to the differing specific scenarios happening all over the globe. This fact prohibits the organization from addressing complex ongoing issues and developing concerns birthed due to the delay in employment of countermeasures because of the time frame necessary to produce expert-approved solutions and their distribution.

Furthermore, the guiding principles for IHR’s actions was drafted nearly 15 years prior to the start of this pandemic.

Conscious of this reality, the DirectorGeneral accepted the resolution of the 73rd session of the World Health Assembly and convened on 8 September 2020 a Review Committee on “the functioning of the IHR and the status of implementation of the relevant recommendations of previous IHR Review Committees.”

The committee’s findings during the next assembly were primarily that National IHR Focal Points (NFPs) are unable to perform their duties properly due to lack of clear guidance from WHO on the designation and functions required of them by the IHR, which resulted in varying definitions between countries leading to the nonexistent power of NFPs.

It must be a requirement for every

nation to enact legislation authorizing NFPs to perform their functions and ensure they are resourced and positioned within government, with sufficient levels of seniority to engage with all relevant sectors. Their role is to serve as the bridge between WHO and the national government of their respective country.

Additionally, supplemental power and access to relevant information must be granted to WHO by governments for performing early alert and response alongside proper dissemination channels such as a new World Alert and Response Notice (WARN), informing countries of the correct measures in preventing an event from becoming a crisis.

To ensure the due and consistent observation of their ancillary responsibilities to the organization, a “robust system of compliance evaluation” was stated as a potential solution to fostering accountability within nations to the implementation of the IHR.

Lastly, the issue of auxiliary funding on all levels as well as the WHO was highlighted requisite of all the improvements stipulated in the report.

DOH

On the day the COVID-19’s status was retracted, the Department of Health (DOH) instantly welcomed the pronouncement of the WHO despite officer-in-charge at the time, Maria Rosario Vergeire, admitted three weeks prior that the state of the country still to be considered as a public health emergency (PHE), expressing that it is first necessary to conduct further study of the provisions regarding handling

the stages of a pandemic.

“We are seeing that soon we will be able to lift this state of public health emergency. But everything must be in order before we do that. When we lifted the state of calamity, there were provisions in laws that we can no longer implement now,” said Vergeire.

DOH and the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF-EID) eventually convened to “discuss and reassess policies and other guidelines affected by the declaration,” which then led to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s lifting of the Philippines’ PHE status on 22 July 2023.

It is undeniable that the pandemic has left severe economic and social upheaval with millions of dollars spent in hopes of mitigating and repairing the damages it has caused. For future plans, WHO aims to continue guiding countries as they adapt to the virus becoming a common occurrence much like Influenza. Furthermore, the Director-General affirms that “On the Committee’s advice, I have decided to use a provision in the IHR that has never been used before, to establish a Review Committee to develop longterm, standing recommendations for countries on how to manage COVID-19 on an ongoing basis.”

Dr. Ghebreyesus also said that the WHO published the fourth edition of the Global Strategic Preparedness and Response Plan for COVID-19 on 3 May 2023, which outlines critical actions for countries in five core areas: collaborative surveillance, community protection, safe and scalable care, access to countermeasures, and emergency coordination.

Photo by Jocel Tyrone Trinidad.

■ John Paul Barrosa & Jerome Paul Hallig

Call to Repeal

Mandatory SIM card registration draws flak from progressives, cyber rights groups

■ Gracelle Tamayo & Ykia Loriss Mariano

Following the approval of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. of the SIM Card Registration Act on 10 October 2022, the said law raised grave concerns among progressives and cyber rights groups for its threats to security, free speech, and social inclusion.

The SIM Card Registration Act or Republic Act No. 11934, obliges all phone users to register their SIM cards within the 90-day extension period. In doing so, they will have to register their personal information, including their valid government-issued ID to verify their identity. The SIM Card Registration deadline ended on 25 July, but telecommunications subscribers were given five days, lasting until 30 July to apply for reactivation, failure to do so, unregistered SIM cards faced automatic deactivation, which rendered them inoperable for text messaging, voice calls, and mobile data services, lose access to e-wallets, and mobile applications linked to SIM Card, among others.

While the new law aims at resolving cyber schemes, breaching the privacy of people remains a top issue. Progressive groups express strong disapproval as this can be used for state surveillance, targeting critics and activists.

Renato Reyes, Bayan secretarygeneral, argues that the Philippine government is known for its “illegal surveillance and violations of the Data Privacy Act,” further noting that the government “has previous incidents of data leaks.” Not only are they notorious for that, but they are also infamous for perpetrating human rights violations.

Sharing the same sentiment, Information Technology (IT) experts and Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) rights advocates assert that this may be ineffective in curbing crimes and scams via phones or text. With a central database containing the registrants’ sensitive information, Mary Grace MirandillaSantos, a cybersecurity policy analyst, said that cyber attackers can easily target subscribers’ data.

Meanwhile, of the 168,016,400 total active SIM cards in the country, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) recorded on 23 July, that more than 105 million, or more than 60% of active SIMs in the country are registered. While the government has extended the deadline for SIM Card Registration, the critics were invincible in sharing their sentiments about the disadvantages of Republic Act No. 11934.

Many telecommunications subscribers and social media users have voiced their opinions regarding the mandatory SIM Card Registration. According to Philstar, critics have expressed their concerns about the unconstitutionality of the SIM Card Registration Act. They argue

that it “restricts the constitutionallyguaranteed freedom of speech and violates the right against unreasonable searches and seizures and the right to substantive due process.”

Despite the petition filed by various progressive groups and critics, the Supreme Court dismissed the request to issue a temporary restraining order against the said law on 25 April. Nevertheless, different groups continuously advocate for its repeal and are challenging the government to find alternative ways to address security concerns that do not compromise the privacy, inclusion, and freedom of citizens.

Ateneo de Naga University's Team SPONGE etched their names in history by securing the championship at the 2023 United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Engineering Day Hackathon marking a significant milestone for both the university and the Philippines, 4 March 2023.

The competition was hosted by the World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO) in collaboration with Engineers Without Borders, bringing

Among the participants were renowned universities and institutions, including Batangas State University, the previous year's winner.

Team SPONGE, comprised of Kristaleen Lagasca, Bernadette Sta. Clara, Michelle De Vergara, John Carlo Peñas, and Jhon Rei Del Mundo presented a winning solution that holds tremendous relevance to a range of Sustainable Development Goals.

The team’s groundbreaking approach addresses crucial aspects of health,

environment, innovation, and climate action, showcasing their commitment to creating a sustainable future.

Michelle De Vergara highlighted the pivotal factors that contributed to their victory, stating, "...our team's success can be attributed to our unwavering trust in one another, our steadfast belief in the potential of the technology we presented, and our dedicated hard work to the extent that we have no reservations, regardless of the outcome."

The solution was developed to combat the Urban Heat Island (UHI), a phenomenon that causes an increase in heat levels due to greenhouse gas emissions and pollution. The researchers proposed a pervious pavement system that allows water to seep through the pavement like a sponge — reducing air temperature, addressing weather-induced vehicular accidents, and absorbing noise pollution, particularly in urban areas, through its acoustic properties that remove residual sound in any space.

“The main struggle was compressing the complex ideas to a simple and apparent solution in five minutes. Using engineering software to present these ideas and visualize the concept was a bit taxing,” Del Mundo said.

However, despite facing challenges in doing Structural Grade Pervious Concrete for Road Applications (SPONGE), they

were able to secure the title, both for the Philippines and the environment that has been facing serious matters that are put into question.

This sustainable infrastructure solution that Team SPONGE has created is also cost-effective and environmentally friendly as it incorporates industrial waste materials, such as rice husk ash and coal fly ash, which are abundant in developing countries like the Philippines.

The engineering students underwent rigorous tests to demonstrate the durability and viability of their solution that could potentially revolutionize urban infrastructure, addressing multiple sustainability issues.

"This solution is created to serve both the people and the environment. I believe that there are lots of ideas out there too with the same goal as ours — to make this world a better place for us to live and thrive," Lagasca added.

The team's feat marks the first time that AdNU has been represented in a competition hosted by WFEO. The team competed against universities worldwide, including Singapore, China, the United States, and Canada.

“Our achievement is a testament to the fact that opportunities always exist, even in the face of overwhelming uncertainties,” De Vergara added.

by

Layout

Suzienne Magno

Message Sent. Phone users have been mandated by law to register their SIM cards following the SIM Card Registration Act. This law hopes to be a resolution for cyber schemes but it leaves some users to question potential privacy concerns. Photo by Jeremiah Martin Lirag.

Soaking in Victory. Michelle De Vergara, Jhon Rei Del Mundo, John Carlo Peñas, Kristaleen Lagasca, and Bernadette Sta. Clara (L-R) stand proud as the champions for the 2023 United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Engineering Day Hackathon, representing Ateneo de Naga University. Photo by Ateneo de Naga University.

■ John Josper Clores & Angel Wisdom Fajardo

Ateneo de Naga University’s Transition with New Leadership Navigating Change:

Throughout its magis history, Ateneo de Naga University has consistently upheld the tradition of Jesuit leadership, guided by the foundational values and enduring principles of the Society of Jesus.

The quest for a new University President of AdNU was set in motion as a response to a unanimous resolution by the university’s Board of Trustees (BoT), as officially communicated through a memorandum on 18 February 2023.

Subsequently, a significant milestone was reached in the legacy of Jesuit governance as the university officially disclosed the appointment of its fifth University President. This juncture marks a profound transformation in the institution’s approach to leadership. With the selection of Fr. Aristotle “Ari” C. Dy, S.J., as the incoming president, Ateneo is poised to enter a new era, signaling a fundamental shift in how the institution is led and guided.

The University President Search Committee, led by Fr. Harvey Mateo, S.J., evaluated potential candidates, taking into account their qualifications and alignment with the university’s values. Interestingly, the process opened the possibility for the consideration of a layperson, indicating a willingness to explore non-Jesuit candidates.

Nevertheless, the continuity of Jesuit guidance persists with the appointment of Fr. Ari. He holds degrees in Business Management, Philosophy, and Theological Studies, and a PhD in the Study of Religions. His academic background includes institutions such as Ateneo de Manila University, the University of Hong Kong, and the University of London.

He has served as the President of Xavier School in San Juan City and as the head of the Education Research and Development Assistance Group. Fr. Ari also held roles as the Director of Jesuit Communications and the Director of the Ricardo Leong Center for Chinese Studies, showcasing his experience in educational leadership.

As anticipation mounts within the community, diverse thoughts echo.

A faculty member expressed, “We would like our new president to still continue that open line of communication, give recognition to the employees, especially those who have been here for the longest time, and also be very clear on the vision of the Ateneo as a school, as an institution, especially now that we have been stricken by the pandemic. What are the steps towards the recovery?”

Transitioning to challenges faced by the current administration of University President Fr. Roberto E.N. Rivera, S.J., the faculty member emphasized qualities exhibited by Fr. Rivera, such as “good conflict resolution, collaboration skills, and open-mindedness.”

Fr. Rivera assumed office on 16 December 2017, after being elected on 30 September of the same year. Over his two consecutive three-year terms, he implemented several policies significantly impacting the student body.

Noteworthy decisions during his tenure included the establishment of higher academic award standards, approval of an optional “pass-policy” in response to pandemic challenges, adjustments to uniform and dress code policies accommodating students’ gender identities as indicated in applications, and the introduction of gender-neutral facilities on campus. Furthermore, his administration incorporated suggestions from other academic bodies into various regulations, including the formulation of rules and regulations for achievement awards.

Reflecting on the legacy of outgoing President Fr. Roberto E.N. Rivera, S.J., reveals a mix of crucial decisions and perceived shortcomings. While

acknowledging these accomplishments, there is a palpable sentiment regarding the drawbacks of policies concerning students.

Faye Manuelle Gapas, the Association of Psychology Students of Ateneo (APSA) President expressed, “A notable lapse was the perceived lack of emphasis on student-centered policies. The past administration could haveprioritizedstudentconcerns,suchasaconsistentone-weekacademic break for each semester, prompt class suspension announcements during environmental disturbances, and equal opportunities for all courses.”

Gapas further emphasized the importance for the new administration to heed the collective expectations and concerns of the student body. She added that the new president should prioritize creating a safer, supportive environment, addressing gender-related concerns like sexual harassment, and reassessing traditional practices to align with progressive values. Additionally, a proactive approach, holding individuals accountable, and supporting fresh graduates with job opportunities are crucial for enhancing the university’s reputation and contributing to holistic student development.

This critique prompts a call for a sense of urgency in addressing these concerns, setting the table for an essential discussion on how the incoming administration plans to address and resolve these issues.

As the Ateneo community bids farewell to Fr. Rivera, his influence remains integral to the institution’s trajectory. Moreover, the torchbearer of the Society of Jesus principles continues to prevail with the appointment of another Jesuit President.

Fr. Dy’s official assumption of the presidency is anticipated after he concludes his term as President of Xavier School on 31 March 2024.

As the echoes of the past resonate with the aspirations of the present, Ateneo de Naga University flips a new chapter, united in its mission, and geared to thrive under the new leadership.

Illustration by Byron John Delos Santos

■ John Josper Clores

Layout by Edward Alipio

One...two...three, gunshots are fired directly targeted at the wings of a tenacious eagle, silencing the cry coming from its enormous beak, gasping for its last breath—slowly and surely losing its consciousness—leaving it haunted, damaged, and incapacitated, yet eyes are still wide open. Covered in nets and bruises, this eagle is thrown into the cage along with muted falcons, wounded boars, and tethered wolves.

The maltreatment and captivity of these animals mirror how activists are being treated today — tortured, gagged into silence, and suppressed. They are perceived as prey of the people inaugurated at the high seat —predators that hunt them down, kill them for their peace and play with their food like how they toy with ordinary people like us. They twist the reality and blame it on the people who yell for justice and fairness, they tie them up and shut their mouths until they suffocate by their truth.

The hunt for these wild and free creatures captures the essence of the uproar of the oppressed along the streets of our community as they howl for the freedom and justice they continuously battle for every single day. The question is — who is the real enemy? Is it the weaponless people speaking for the truth or the

people? What did they do to deserve a life full of threat and danger?

Blood-Colored Life

Not everyone lives in la vien rose…champagne on ice, cloud-like beds, and the fresh morning breeze that most people want to feel touching their skin. But funny what the reality is for the life of activists, all the grave injustices, corruption, discrimination, exploitation, and misinformation— they see and are aware of all of it. They are the ones who try to understand the most alarming problems in society at their deepest roots and their most fundamental level. And yet, they are the ones targeted to be erased from this world first.

They are a true human in nature but a wild animal is how people in power perceive them. And when those people are dressed in power, their rose-colored lenses become tainted and blurry, and the sight of the people who hold truth and fairness for all turns to this pale red vision that forces them to view a world with bloodcolored lenses—a society where injustice, killings, and oppression are the prevalent entities that consume the world.

With this kind of world existing, our safety and security are truly at risk. That is why activists and progressive organizations live in fear but are never in doubt about what they fight and stand for; deep inside they know what they are shouting for during rallies and protests. They are perceptive about the danger that they will encounter once they are in a mobilization. They know about the gratification once they have finally revolutionized against the oppressive system that is caging them from reaping everyone’s right to live soundly and decently.

Caged Truth

“Ang namulat, hindi na muling pipikit.” [Those who have become aware, will not close their eyes again.] The atrocious challenge, unfortunately, among these socially conscious individuals, is the Philippine government’s constant threat of terrorism. Those who involve themselves in social and political movements could easily be red-tagged and be branded as terrorists. Truth be told, it is prevalent. But just

because it happens so often, does to terrorists, with a vague list of criteria defined under the bill.

law is a threat to democracy and a way of the state to silence progressives and activists,” as worded by Sarah Ayesha Bustamante, a member of Jovenes Anakbayan Naga City and Kabataan Partylist (KPL) CamSur. Protestors, environmental defenders,

Layout by Guia Isabel Villafuerte and Artwork by Christianne Rosales

activists, human rights advocates, and journalists—it sounds loose and erroneous that these people who legally and actively exercise their rights to deliver the truth, express public discontent, expose government dishonesty, and put the spotlight on the oppressed are called a threat to the nation.

Why are they targeted? One obvious answer comes to mind—it is not because they are a threat to humanity, but it is because the administration is threatened by them—terrified that the blood in their hands will be out for revelation. It is not the activists who should quiver in fear, it is the regime that is shaking. It is apparent that the only way they can think of is to skin these courageous and powerful individuals’ rights to keep a grasp of their unjust authority.

Skin Them Alive

“Mga tao rin kami,” were the last words uttered by a Caviteño activist group coordinator, Ka Manny Asuncion, before his last moments after being killed inhumanely along with eight other activists from the Southern Tagalog region. The horrifying turn of events happened on the 7th of March 2021, which is now commonly identified as “Bloody Sunday.”

In the Philippines, killings among 25 human rights defenders were verified in 2020, and 15 killings during the first half of 2021 alone.

believed to be planted (Cepedo, 2021). The former administration of Duterte continuously labels these human rights defenders as “terrorists” and “sympathizers” and authorizes policemen to persecute them as if they are wild, dangerous groups of beasts covered in spines when they are actual people, with not even a single firearm. Yet, with a replacement of the new governing power, the remnants of the human rights crisis left by the previous regime remain uncleaned, as a parallel administration led by Ferdinand Marcos Jr., in collaboration with the former president’s daughter, Sara Duterte, assumes control.

Karapatan highlighted that the current Marcos administration has already recorded eight instances of involuntary disappearances within the first 10 months, which accounts for 40 percent of the total of 20 documented cases throughout Duterte’s six-year term (Ocampo, 2023). This surge in involuntary or enforced disappearances during Marcos Jr’s initial year in Malacañang is worrisome indeed. Furthermore, Bayan Muna President, Satur Ocampo in Philstar, echoes Karapatan’s estimated count of 60 extrajudicial killings documented in 40 separate occurrences throughout the country as of 30 June 2023. Among these incidents, it was reported that 20 happened in Negros, while 16 took place in Bicol.

Even more recently, AKAP KA and the human rights organization Karapatan brought attention to the abduction and forced signing of “surrender documents” by Army officers involving two young environmental activists, Jonila Castro, and Jhed Tamano, in Bataan on September 2nd (Gozum, 2023). That same month in Camarines Sur, The Democrat, a student publication at the University of Nueva Caceres (UNC) in Naga City reported alleged harassment by Philippine Army soldiers who took their pictures without consent during a rally, commemorating the Martial Law anniversary. The publication’s editors also disclosed having received acts of intimidation and barangay summons for a meeting with nameless Army officers (Espina-Varona, 2023). In response, the student editors declined the suspected invitation, following the UNC student body’s release of a statement concerning the coercion.

Although the fear of uncertainty lingers, there is something noble and true when we immerse ourselves in the masses. Seeing the real-life struggle and hardships that marginalized and oppressed sectors experience in their lives, the mass integration that they embed with their lives plays a significant role in attaining freedom and fairness.

Organize, arouse, and mobilize. These three are stressed by Bustamante as the ways youth can create positive change. “Join NDMOs, educate ourselves, and others, and participate in activities that contribute to the movement. And most importantly, serve the masses,” she concluded.

The Uproar

We should be getting louder and louder in calling out the authorities, we are not blind nor muted to stay naive and indifferent about the grave imbalance that the government has permeated in the status quo. To create an uproar is to break from all of the injustices. They get up, assemble, and mobilize in solidarity to reach critical mass, eventually shaping a collective that aims to serve the marginalized and campaign for change.

An activist is not a wild animal; they are not meant to be hunted and imprisoned in cages like wild animals in the zoo. They shouldn’t be captured in tight ropes and red laser dots, crying like unstoppable boars. They shouldn’t have scarred beaks hushing their roars, nor have covered snouts restricting their investigating capacities. With their open and all-knowing eyes, they shall remain conscious and alarmed, as they forcibly flap their furious wings—screeching for the freedom of everyone.

But sometimes no matter how fearless they are—there is a more ruthless beast—having its merciless and bloodthirsty hands resting on a pointed gun.

Tell us…who’s the real animal now?

In Bicol, there were at least 58 activists killed from the year 2016 to 2022 (Gavilan, 2021). In May 2021, Anakbayan Naga chairperson Sasah Sta. Rosa and Bayan Bicol spokesperson Pastor Dan Balucio were arrested in a separate search with recorded evidence of firearms, which are

The Hunt

An activist must not be afraid of being hunted. Rather, what an activist should be frightened of is seeing the persisting cruel injustice brought upon the world. Staying quiet in the midst of remorseful and vicious times further feeds the ruthless intentions of corrupt government administrations.

Slashed, bashed, and hunted by the people in power, they tear apart the body and dignity of activists from limb to limb until they lose their capacity to speak and stand for justice. As long as there is an oppressive system breathing under our noses—protestors will continuously be caged against their will and stripped of their humility until they lose their soul in the process of condemnation.

A Blessing or A Curse? Examining the Dual Nature of Technological Integration

Gracelie Tamayo

et’s envision a world where machines provide our needs and comprehend our commands instantly, like doing all your school work, adjusting your room temperature, brewing your favorite coffee, and selecting your favorite K-drama — all orchestrated by an Artificial Intelligence (AI) effortlessly following your preferences.

What comes to your perspective? Do you think AI is a helpful ally, enhancing our lives, or does it pose a potential threat to mankind and inadvertently foster dependency on technology, potentially hindering traditional modes of

AI has become a transformative force in today’s rapidly evolving world. As we navigate this dynamic landscape, education stands at the forefront of progress. Among these marvels is artificial intelligence — a machine that can tackle problems and respond to queries that traditionally require human intellect.

As we observe the evolving landscape of learning, it becomes evident that a new tool has taken center stage: the ChatGPT app, Grammarly, Adobe, Filmora, iMovie, etc. The capacity of AI depends on their training data — for instance, the ChatGPT app which is equipped with information up until September 2021. cannot provide present information from the year 2022 up until the present when one tries searching for recent studies or findings.

Language-trained AI chatbots and Generative Artificial Intelligence have versatile potential for teaching, editing videos, generating images, and creating creative content, music, and sounds. It assists learners by providing knowledge and quick solutions. It also serves as individualized learning, creative content resources, a virtual tutor, and provides sequential help that boosts students’ complexities in creative proficiency.

While AI holds significant potential, it’s crucial to acknowledge its potential harm. Daryl Nick Belardo, a faculty staff member from Ateneo de Naga University (AdNU) highlights concerns like job security threats, the risk of AI taking over human intelligence, and a generation overly relying on AI, posing risks to critical thinking skills and national security.

AI’s limitations include a lack of human intuition for emotions and nuanced queries, technical issues, and the potential for misleading information, leading to dependency and frustration, as noted by a second-year biology student Melody Parone from AdNU. This dependence, she emphasizes, hampers genuine learning and research

In essence, these insights stress the need for caution and awareness about AI’s limitations. Recognizing its potential negative impact on job security, critical thinking, and national security, as well as its technical shortcomings is essential for both students and teachers. It urges a balanced approach to leverage AI’s benefits while fostering independent thinking and research skills to ensure quality

the brain behind Creative Minds Publications, reminds us how vital teachers are, emphasizing their skills of building bonds with students.

Even though AI has its limits, Diana Wilson from ProFile Sports LLC in Phoenix, AZ, believes it can jazz up teacher skills, calling it a cool tool that adds extra sparkle.

Belardo agrees, saying “AI has positive impacts like technological advances in science and health, engineering, finance, etc. and makes our lives easier, example: communication/connection, socializing such (as) social media, easy access and transfer of information, bank transactions, etc.”.

Truly, AI is helpful both to students and teachers as it serves as an alternative tool to those students who are financially challenged and cannot afford to buy books, computers, or applications for editing videos, images, and music. Artificial intelligence-powered search engines, such as Google’s advanced algorithms, may provide highly relevant results by comprehending user intent, context, and language nuance. This permits students to research things outside of their immediate curriculum, encouraging intellectual curiosity and a broad understanding of a variety of subjects.

Imagine AI as a super-smart sidekick in your learning adventure. To make sure it’s a hero and not a mischief-maker, we need common rules. These rules would turn AI into your personalized study buddy, helping teachers and adding extra fun to your lessons. So, instead of saying “bye” to teachers, we’re just giving them a hightech helper, making learning extra awesome for everyone.

By presenting AI as a helping tool to education, improving teacher support, and encouraging accessibility and inclusivity, we may guarantee that AI enhances rather than diminishes educational experiences. Finding the appropriate balance between innovation and ethical considerations will pave the way for a future in which AI improves education while honoring educators’ vital role, creating varied welcoming spaces for learning as it also allows students and educators to know its limitations, and providing awareness with the right usage of Artificial Intelligence.

In our educational tale, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is like a superhero, delivering an array of exciting new things to study and experience. But, like any superhero, it faces obstacles. Teachers play an important role in ensuring that AI helps us think better and progress in all areas. We must be friends with AI while still understanding its limitations. It does not always grasp everything or provide the correct answers. As a result, we must use AI with caution and not accept everything it says.

As Melody Parone, a second-year Biology student, clearly observes, “Easy and efficient doesn’t always mean it can provide accurate information.”

With the surge of Artificial Intelligence in education, concerns have surfaced about it replacing our excellent human educators – you know, the ones who do a bit of everything, from teaching to cracking jokes. Kathryn Starke,

And that invites us to be sensible and critical learners to use AI correctly and not go beyond the lines that must not be crossed.

Layout by Guia Isabel Villafuerte

After it has come to light as far back as 2016, jeepney modernization can now be deemed an overdue prospect. Following the lookout that attempts to place the Philippines at par with the fast-paced and advanced neighboring countries, the state seems to forget that the majority of its people have barely left the grassroots since time immemorial. The changes aimed at the transport industry where traditional jeepneys are subjected to be phased out will only burden the same people from the unprivileged walk of life — bounding them to suffer most terribly in the face of unjust change — leaving the grass greener on the smaller side of the fence but continues to neglect the portion that homes the disadvantaged and vulnerable.

Culture and Ordinariness

By The Wayside

equally important matter of concern poses the question; What about others?

People from the coastal, upland, and even mainland, share a unique practice in the departments of markets and groceries. Our culture deems it usual to load jeepney vehicles with perishables and bring home what we shopped for beyond shadows of shame. Eliminating traditional jeepneys, however, is in much the same manner as de-normalizing this tradition of acquiring purchases at hand and delivering them home.

“Kasi kapag ito (Jeepney Modernization) nangyari, kadakol mawawaran trabaho. Nagkakantidad 2.4 [milyon]. Mahalon! [Alagad] dae pwedeng isakay ang mga panaod ta mamamarong 50-year-old Sonny Antonio asserted, a driver for 15 years from

While a cargo of goods one procured can freely slide through the metal jeepney floors thus far, it would not be the same once modernized jeepneys take over the routes and norms. We efface a tradition and prepare no room for such

Dethroned: The Vanished Kingdom

With the new model of the jeepney being proposed by the government, the colorful, quirky jeepney models that we have been using since the end of World War II, are now slowly being pushed to the side. Eco-friendly, fully air-conditioned, modernized jeepneys are now yet to be enthroned as the new “Hari ng Kalsada” (King of the Roads)—placing the traditional jeepneys behind the limelight.

Regardless, jeepney drivers have continuously lamented the difficulties implied by modernized jeepney operations and expressed defiance against the crooked transition. Manufactured and produced in a foreign land, away from the prickly heat and tedious road of the Philippines, its parts and cable linings are completely

“Si co-driver mi nag drive kayang modernized. Ang sabi magayon. May time na may naraot na sarong unit, haloy nakaparking diyan sana sa gilid. Ang problema lang si cable pero mayong mahanap na pampalit ta mayo igdi sa Pinas. Maorder pa sa ibang bansa. Hunaon mo yan, ining jeep mi kapag naraot, kadakol auto supply diyan sa gilid. Digdi sato na ikot ikot sana, dae yan kakayanon kang narrated Edwin Balatinsayo, 50 years old and a jeepney driver for

Despite being modernized, jeepney drivers reiterated that these jeepney models will never last for the long run. With the heavy traffic and long roads of the country, an electric-operated public transport vehicle will not survive for years without overheating and malfunctioning. Amidst the Filipinos’ skill in repairing

machinery, modernized jeepneys are certainly out of everyone’s capability. Its parts and cable linings hinder the repair process as they must be derived from the same land where the jeepney is birthed and produced. Hence, once damaged, even just a single part, operators and drivers must order it from those foreign countries where the jeepney unit is procured. This is no less a manifestation of how greedy and elitist a modernized jeepney may be – in which a minimum-wage earner driver will lose a good chunk of their salary for a single purchase of this model.

The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has always suggested that the transition to modernized jeepneys will contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, toxic fumes, and other air pollutants through its combustion engines. However, the removal of traditional jeepneys on the roads will have little to no impact on improving the environmental state of the country. According to the Department of Energy and LTFRB data, the Philippines has more than 9,000,000 registered vehicles, of which only 2% or 250,000 are jeepneys. Despite claiming that the modernized jeepney is eco-friendly, the larger part of the pollutants will proceed to contribute toxic fumes, whereas jeepney drivers are battling for a spot within public transportation. Eliminating a small part of these enormous amounts will not reduce the exhaustion of air pollutants, but will only aggravate the already vulnerable and underprivileged citizens.

“Bako man tong jeep, mini bus baga ‘to. Sain ang image kang jeep duman?” a question raised by Balatinsayo.

Traditional jeepneys are the pride of Filipinos. Losing this image will leave a hole in our culture. Drivers, transport groups, and even commuters grieve for the sudden transition of jeepneys. Drivers dubbed this new model “minibus” instead of “jeepney” as its features resemble small bus’ structures. Drivers now fear that as modernized jeepneys ought to soon fill the roads, the huge, brightly-colored traditional jeepneys will completely vanish in the sector of public transport.

“Igdi baga nagsikat ang Pinas. Kasi kapag sinabing Pilipinas, jeep baga sikat sa ibang bansa. Basta jeep man giraray. Pero bako lang arog kaito na garo mini bus.” Antonio expressed.

As December 31st is slowly creeping in which is the last day for transport sectors to submit viable requirements for the process and procurement of modernized jeepneys, drivers of Naga City forecasted their nearing departure from the road once the modernized jeepney program takes its full blow.

“Ang plano mi dae na kami mabyahe. Maharali na kami. Mahanap kaming ibang trabaho, basta legal, kapag natuloy na yan,” Harold Ballester, a four-year jeepney driver, remarked.

Jeepney drivers have always been at the frontline of public transportation. Engraved in the history of every Filipino, our traditional jeepney drivers served as one of our vehicles for every walk of life. And as the modernized jeepney promises to replace the traditional, it is antagonizing that the people who used to bring us to our destination will now park on the sideline. With its unpredictable wages, jeepney drivers continue to roam the roads and bring service to every commuter. However, a minimum of 500 pesos daily wage for modernized jeepney drivers will not suffice the expenses of a small Filipino family, especially today when inflation continues to skyrocket. As a reroute, drivers find it wiser to opt for other jobs that

will equip them with dignified salaries — one that will render them enough to cater to whom they serve.

“Ika man may iskwela na tulo o apat, magkasya man daw ang 800 sa sarong aldaw? Ay mayo na ipupuli mo sa pamilya mo, kakarampot na lang,“ Balatinsayo.

With the ongoing talk and debate of today’s modernization program, our fellow jeepney drivers are either on the brink of losing their jobs or amid coercion to succumb to greater debts. Either way, one thing is certain: jeepney drivers will suffer more and the commuters will feel the burden next. The jeepney operators will eventually lose their jeepney units, and everyone will feel the effects — except, of course, the one percent and the rich.

“Ano man ibabayad kang mga pobre?” drivers inquired collectively.

Jeepney drivers constantly emphasize that they are not against modernization, but only hope that this sudden change will be inclusive for everyone, especially for the marginalized individuals. Due to the high cost of a modernized jeepney, drivers collectively asked the government to make this modernization process less costly, as the current contracts and conditions are a burden to every driver.

“Dae pwedeng tanggihan ta para sato ‘yan. Magayon na, malinig na, ta pollution na baga kita. Problema mi, gurano magkano sarong jeep, mahigit 2.6 milyon,” Balatinsayo lamented.

The modernization program is an anti-poor campaign. The price speaks for itself; a price of 2.4 to 2.6 million pesos for a unit — which is 1,766.7% more expensive than the traditional one — is simply too much for drivers and operators who barely survive to make ends meet. Not even a 20-year-long driving can make one amass enough money to procure a unit, much less when one fulfills the role of the breadwinner in the family. Only business tycoons will thrive while the marginalized will further flank lower and deeper into the pits of poverty.

“Ang style ninda bakong pagtabang sa kasaraditan, ilinulubog ninda eh, idinududo.”

”Maharali na kami”: Leaving the Plane in Bid of Change

Photo Source from Canva for Education. Photos by Patricia Noelle Bongalos and Jam Mazo & Layout by Edward Alipio.

Reminiscence

Auvenile mind never fails a single soul in reminiscing a past that altered one’s reality. Memories come unnoticed and pave their way without remorse, leaving us in nostalgia or, worse, a series of hiccups and tears that water the present. Indeed, our minds or was it life in

Our lives are woven in different colors — that uniqueness of one shines amidst diversity, yet a profound beauty crumbles when you gamble in the uncertainties of life and lose; just when you thought you figured out everything, the answers became vague, the directions changed, and you find yourself lost in the ambiguity of puzzles that life ought you to play.

back at that specific moment means life will never be the same.

The Epoch of Incredulity

The world has been in deep sleep for the last three years while every single soul cries in a silent battle against the virus that penetrated our routines and ended lives too soon. Globally, the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a significant loss of life and posed an unprecedented threat to food systems, public health, and the world economy. Worldwide reports of racist events have increased, and this crisis fueled fear, which then shows up as discrimination and xenophobia. “A lot” is an understatement to describe the negative impacts of COVID-19 on lives and social systems. On the micro level, focusing on the phenomenology of a few individuals, the COVID-19 pandemic challenged human adaptability and resilience to a circumstance beyond grasp.

“…this generally resulted in unconsciously losing vision of my goals zzand I realized that I was losing

the freedom to choose what to do on what we have at the present; and at that crucial moment, believing in a better tomorrow is courageous enough to move us once again.

“The type of coping mechanism I utilized in the midst of the pandemic is appraisal-focused. Using this problemfocused strategy, I tried to deal with the cause of my problems,” said John, a Clinical Instructor at the Ateneo de Naga University (AdNU) College of Nursing.

Coping mechanisms were vital to protect ourselves from the consuming effect of COVID-19. These were the tools that kept us grounded in our beliefs and hope. Everyone has their ways of dealing with the uncanny, and for John, it was about equipping oneself with sufficient knowledge about the problem to identify its roots. For some, it was about listening to and responding to what their body needs.

“I could only cope by giving myself enough rest or sleep for my body and positive affirmations for the mind,” said Zoy, a BS Psychology Student of AdNU.

Three years ago, you might have been in the comfort of your house preparing for supper, sitting next to your friend on the four walls of your classroom solving for x, or consuming too much caffeine in your workplace when the sudden announcement of a virus and lockdown clouded your mind with questions, yet you will be going home immediately, without enough wisdom that going

Quarantine caused an overwhelming burden which turned life into a mode of survival. Living was beyond an option, which heavily influenced our perspectives on navigating life. Like Ira, for most of us, the lockdown put us in a state of questioning with no definite answers; the only resort was to move forward while losing ourselves unconsciously to a version of us we never knew yet.

The Epoch of Belief

A choice driven by acceptance can ignite the flame once again. The pandemic’s negative impacts were undeniably out of control, yet as humans, we have

Sometimes, we misunderstand our needs by adhering to certain practices we thought we needed without realizing that our body needs simply the basic self-care routine we often disregard. Self-care plays a massive role in allowing us to survive the draining effects of lockdown. Like Zoy, our simple routines, by performing them, help us survive the dark times.

Spring of Hope

“It is therefore with great hope that I declare COVID-19 over as a global health emergency,”Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General.

5 May 2023, sparked light at the end of the tunnel as the COVID-19 being a global health emergency came to

its end. The world under the pandemic was far from what it is now, how it works, and who people are. Lingering to the past is a threshold of pain we seek to heal, yet reminiscing the past allows us to see the beauty of the present. The scars brought by the COVID-19 pandemic might be a memory lane of incredulity, loss, pain, and belief, but those memories remind us how far we have come. Reminiscing is painful, and the untamed waves of life continue, but we, humans, are gold tested in fire; in the midst of a surging blaze, we never fail to shine.

Layout by Guia Isabel Villafuerte and Artwork by Jesse Nicole Pili

Breinstatement of another Marcos into the Philippine presidency is a move that has soured over the course of the year. Thanks to the pro-Marcos online propaganda machinery years in operation which sought to repaint Marcos Sr’s dictatorship as a golden age, and a strategic tandem with popular candidate Sara Duterte, now President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. secured his win during the Presidential Elections 2022.

Upon the Marcos family’s return to Malacañang on 30 June 2022, expectations ran high for a continuation of a familiar political narrative. However, a year into his presidency, the new Marcos regime has revealed a conspicuous lack of backbone.

Marcos has so far been synonymous with his two presidential traits: a proclivity for simpler, easy tasks, and a lavish, jetset lifestyle.

The administration’s actions have taken a surprisingly nimble approach, with its first year distinguished by a singular focus on the economy. This period was marked by initiatives aimed at revitalizing business confidence and initiating easily achievable reforms.

Unsurprisingly, these political actions were not designed to benefit the poor, despite the Philippines having a poverty incidence of 18.1% to 19.9 million Filipinos plagued by food insecurity and insufficient incomes, with the added weight of inflation motivated by the COVID-19 recession. After all, the people whose hands have become sore from applauding Marcos’s policies are elite and foreign magnates cashing in on the country’s abundant resources and billionaire-friendly bureaucracy.

Aside from undermining the dates of national holidays in favor of a long weekend strategy and the detrimental resurgence of the local mining sector, the creation of the Maharlika sovereign wealth fund has been one of Marcos’s inaugural jewels, having been met with stark scrutiny. Marcos and Duterte seem to be too blinded by the luster and sheen of coins to take into account the protrusion of Philippine debt. Regardless of the criticisms, the law has been signed alarmingly fast, even by international standards, leaving a staggering 80% of adult Filipinos mostly to completely uninformed, according to a March 2023 Social Weather Stations survey.

While the nation’s plight is met with out-of-touch and suspicious legislation, the president enjoys international trips, Formula One Grand Prix weekends, and check-ins at the poshest hotels in the world, the likes of Carlyle Hotel in New York.

Just from his first six months in office, the Office of the President’s (OP) travel expenses skyrocketed to 1453% compared to the previous year. Now, OP has increased its travel budget nearly two-fold, going from P671 million in 2023 to P1.15 billion for the forthcoming year.

President Marcos, who seemingly has had a laminectomy due to his spinelessness, has so far shown leadership favoring large businesses over its citizens racked with hardships, with the trend towards an increasing class disparity. While his presidency runs mild, his priorities have become clearer than ever.

Foreign affairs, on the other hand, took a 180-degree turn, away from Duterte’s efforts to strengthen ties with China and back to the wooing, love-bombing hands of the United States. The US charm offensive is urgent, with America wanting to

References: https://www.controlrisks.com/our-thinking/insights/the-philippines-under-marcos-jr-a-year-at-themalacanang https://www.sws.org.ph/swsmain artcldisppage/?artcsyscode=ART-20230706072241 https://psa.gov.ph/price-indices/cpi-ir https://www.rappler.com/voices/thought-leaders/newspoint-hitting-rock-bottom-philippines/ https://www.cnnphilippines.com/news/2023/9/13/bayan-marcos-f1-race.html https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/us-china-philippines-marcos/ https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2023/09/26/2299189/revenge-traveling-marcos-overspenttravel-budget-p84-million

Foundational Checkup; AdNU Core Values Today

■ John Paul Barrosa

“M

agis Morning Ateneo!”

One of the many sayings that is trademarked by our institution, and has often been used by its members both inside and outside its walls. However, with how commonplace this phrase is, it begs the question of whether or not Ateneans know the true meaning of the words.

Since its establishment in 1940, Ateneo de Naga University (AdNU) has been considered the premier Jesuit University in Southern Luzon. This continued feat has been made possible through the foundations of the university that play a pivotal role in grounding its faculty and students through incorporating the teachings of St. Ignatius of Loyola’s core values: Finding God in All Things, Service of the Faith that does Justice, Cura Personalis, and Magis.

In today’s digital age, one is surrounded by countless stimuli almost everywhere and information is readily accessible with a few clicks on a screen: all of these things serve to influence the mindsets and behaviors of the individuals exposed to them. As time goes by and technology advances, it grows more and more difficult for parents and teachers alike to discipline and instill proper morals into the youth.

Student Experience in AdNU

Besides being a private Catholic educational institution, it is also one of the pioneer universities in the country, and among other factors forged the school a stellar reputation of producing well-rounded graduates who contribute to advancements in their respective fields and make a positive impact on society.

This is why many parents have trusted AdNU with their children’s education, with some even enrolling at the beginning of preschool and through college. Now, given that these individuals spend the majority of their youth inside the walls of Ateneo, there exists a greater responsibility by the school to guide its students and instill the necessary values for their proper growth.

This responsibility is eased by the university’s control over the classes and activities that these individuals will be participating in. The main answers by the institution for this are the Christian Ignatian Formation Program (CIFP) and National Service Training Program (NSTP) classes that students are required to take during the first two years of their stay in Ateneo, where they undergo activities such as Alternative Class Programs (ACPs), class recollections, and community outreach.

A fourth-year Legal Management student vouches that being a student in Ateneo allows them to see the unfiltered reality of our world today.

“Very diverse rin kasi ang Ateneo kaya machachallenge ka talaga,” they believe this is possible through the combination of the said activities with other academic and extracurricular opportunities that the school offers.

Sufficiency

of Core Values

On paper, the guiding principles of Ateneo are sound and seem to be able to ground its students in proper morals and beliefs—directing them onto the right path to be productive members of their community. However, besides the required activities in the formation classes, in actuality, there are not enough ‘appropriate’ opportunities to practice and embody these values due to the lack of variety that the university offers.

A prime example of this would be the existence of the notion that to be ‘magis’, one must be an active member of several organizations as well as be part of the top performing students of their classes, with the occasional involvement in representing the institution in competitions with the minimum being at the regional level.

A second-year Psychology student believes this to be a toxic narrative because it prevents people from actually going deeper and discovering the true meaning of the core values, instead, it becomes a justification for the amount of work that an Atenean takes upon themselves. In some cases, this is applied for the sake of awards and distinction.

Furthermore, they think that how the administration calls for representatives is not open to everyone, possessing preference for individuals who have already previously represented the institution. Ateneo must be able to harness and draw out its students’ dormant skills. These potentials could be realized through participation in the said competitions and workshops otherwise reserved for previous representatives. The challenge now is to bridge the gap between these students and the proper opportunities for their talents to be utilized, therefore bringing them into the spotlight.

Similarly, another observation by the fourth-year Legal Management student is that the execution and fulfillment of the core values are essentially only directed outward; serving the community, offering assistance to those in need, and making innovative contributions to society, are just some of the many ways that these values are embodied. However, this may only lead our focus further away from the students. In the same way that Ateneans endeavor to serve and cater to the improvement of the lives of the masses, so should their actions be in sustaining and caring for their health and well-being. Because how will they be able to capably help other people, when they cannot even help themselves?

Outside the Walls of Ateneo

Nonetheless, the school’s administration is well aware that sharing the core values by themselves, as promulgated, is not enough to prepare the Ateneans for the challenges they will face outside the walls of our institution. There is more to learning the values. We must appropriate it in our lives. Live what we preach. Therefore, the students must be helped to gain both the values and the competence in their field.

Ms. Janet Badong-Badilla, the Executive Director of the Office of Mission and Identity (OMI), expresses that no matter how competent one is, if one does not have the character and integrity that we aspire as Ateneans, one will still be missing the human and Ignatian formation that we are sharing. She emphasizes the importance of ‘marrying the soft and hard skills’ quoting Dr. Haim Ginott who said that as educators we must “never produce learned monsters or skilled psychopaths.” She conveys that the bottom line is that it is necessary to have solid formation as Ateneans.

She references Dr. Haim Ginott, child psychologist and Holocaust survivor, in their saying that “We should not create technically competent monsters, but rather one[s] with character.” Conveying that the bottom line is that it is necessary to have solid formation as well as positing the question that “How will this awareness be actualized if students are incapable of acting on their enlightened understanding?”

The same sentiment is shared by Mr. Rodolfo Virtus Jr., the Director of the Office of the Student Affairs (OSA), stating that Ateneans besides their skills and specializations should also ‘actively develop their practical experiences and support systems,’ to properly navigate the complexities of the real world.

“In order to truly prepare for life after graduation, students must acquire competencies such as critical thinking abilities, problem-solving skills, adaptability, and resilience, especially in the post-pandemic and VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) world we are in,” reiterates Virtus.

Standing Up for Their Beliefs

There is a clear need to bring back the degree of immersion and exposure that Ateneans undergo not just during the first half of their stay in the university but rather during the whole course of their stay.

The same second-year student attests that even their projected longest exposure activity (the three-day community outreach) is not nearly enough time for them to properly understand and reflect on the issues and insights to be learned in those situations despite already being significant change in their daily schedules and lives. They provided the possibility of conducting exposure activities at the grassroots level, noting that in some research studies the proponents actually travel to far-flung countries to experience and live within the rural communities for months. Yet, this brings up the problem of additional resources to finance and coordinate these extended visits.

Nevertheless, one of the measures that can be done right now by Ateneo is to increase awareness of the students to movements such as Anti-VAWC (Violence Against Women and Children), Martial Law Commemoration, and the like. Shedding light and support on the current situation of the university’s official student press can also make a difference. This can be done by putting up posters around campus and having the social media pages of the university publish posts and/or official statements in solidarity with the campaigns. These practical actions have the potential to inspire the students to strengthen their resolve and choose to be involved in real-world matters that concern their current and future circumstances in life.

Ms. Badong-Badilla recounts her experience as a student where, as part of their holistic formation, they participated in various activities inside and outside the classroom including among others rallies and assemblies. She shared that there were even instances in the past where even the university President joined them in a prayer rally to express their protest to the social issues and concerns affecting the citizens then.

Proving the effectiveness of the AdNU’s measures in the past, Mr. Virtus was even inspired to work within the institution due to his ‘leadership experiences and well-rounded education’ he received as a student of the university.

Importance of Solid Foundations

It is undeniable that the university's core values are well-thought-of and underwent comprehensive planning by the administration, and that this level of dedication is seen within the offices of the institution. So much so that amidst the pandemic, the school was awarded a ‘Plaque of Commendation’ in recognition of its Student Affairs and Services, during the Higher Education Awards, via Zoom, last May 20, 2021, as part of the Commission on Higher Education’s 27th Founding Anniversary. Furthermore, OSA’s programs were even featured as ‘Best Practices’ during the 17th Convention of the Asia Pacific Student Services Association, via Zoom, last 19 November 2021.

AdNU is indeed doing a proper job of honing and facilitating the growth of all of its members: faculty, staff, and students alike. However, there is always room for improvement, and the basis for their performance must not be other institutions and their respective programs, but rather the needs and opinions of the students they are responsible for, analyzed by the expertise and ample knowledge of the administration.

The importance of solid foundational principles cannot be stressed enough in today’s setting, as Ms. Badong-Badilla declares that “More than ever in this time of President Marcos… the core values of Ateneo de Naga is highly if not deeply relevant in all this fake news.”

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With an increasingly diverse student population, Ateneo de Naga University has formulated policies and launched programs in an attempt to better cater to such diversity. The recent Crossdressing Policy, gender awareness webinars, and gender neutral bathrooms are part of the university’s movement towards cultivating a safe and accepting environment for students with various Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression (SOGIE). However, these were met with varying opinions from the student body and a larger discussion was opened on how SOGIE is treated in the university. In an article by ThePILLARS last January, it was reported that students feel that the mentioned Crossdressing Policy was limited, and questioned the need for the standardization of gender identity and expression. The discussion surrounding SOGIE is one that is vital for its more effective accommodation by the university, and for the voices of the students at stake to be heard. For this VOX ATENEO, ThePILLARS conducted interviews with five AdNU college students from different colleges on their thoughts and experiences in relation to SOGIE in the university for the past academic years, and whether AdNU has the best approach in mind in their molding of an inclusive and student-centered institution.

AdNU ADMINISTRATION on SOGIE

May understanding ang Ateneo and they are trying to move progressively. But there are reservations. Maraming nag disagree (with the cross dressing policy), kasi bakit daw kailangan pa mag register sa OSA. AdNU is not really allowing students kung need pa ng permission. One of my friends said “hypocrisy lang ‘yong movement kung kailangan ng permission to express ang sarili nila.” Also, during Intrams, isa sa mga guidelines sa Modern Dance was that no crossdressing allowed. But the fact na meron pa rin idea ng crossdressing, are they really pushing inclusivity sa campus or pakitang tao lang ‘yong movement?

- Eugeni Belches, 3rd year, BA Education

The most noteworthy na ginawa ng university regarding accommodating SOGIE was allowing students to wear uniforms or clothes that affirms their gender identity. Although there were restrictions, like there was a need to ask for permission from the parents and go to OSA. Although it can be improved, it’s still a step though. There needs to be a realization. I guess it’s still

‘hard’ for the university to allow the students to wear what they want without having the students out themselves to their parents.

-

Erin Arcilla, 3rd year, BS Psychology

There was an attempt to accommodate SOGIE, pero without fully understanding or comprehending ano ba ang SOGIE in the first place. I think clouded pa rin sila ng pagiging conservative, and result din siya ng generational gap. Pero hindi dapat siya maging excuse para (hindi) ma-accommodate ang students. Kagaya nung Crossdressing Policy, iyong statement pa lang na “crossdressing policy” is problematic na in a sense; kasi you wouldn’t say na a transwoman is crossdressing. Tapos iyong kailangan pa ng paperworks para ma-validate iyong existence mo.

- Zarah Gayanilo, 2nd year, BS Digital Animation

Hinintay namin mag-announce iyong OSA regarding that (Crossdressing policy). Nag-email kami to OSA and sabi nila mag-wait for further announcement. Tapos iyon, nagpost ang OSA sa FB in regards doon sa pag-allow ng preferred uniform, so I’m very happy naman doon, that Ateneo is really looking towards a diverse perspective. Talagang sa College Guidance, they’re very concerning and may matatakbuhan ka talaga. Sa past years talaga, inaamin naman nila (AdNU) that they are into continuously improving pa. And first pa lang ito (Crossdressing policy) ma-implement here dito sa Bicol.

I’m very happy sa Ateneo kasi hindi sila nagc-close boundaries sa mga possibilities. Ang raming opportunities and ang dami mong matututunan. Lalo na pag nag college ka dito [sic] sa Ateneo, very diverse society. Iyon ang pinapakita ng Ateneo sa each and every department. We can wear what we want, just abide by the dress code. Ang

- Patricia Velasco, 2nd year, BA Education

Given that it is a catholic institution, it is rather lenient and tolerant of progressive expressions of SOGIE, the only real issue is that the schools require you to turn in a permit for you to fully express yourself, it comes off as performative rather than accepting. It is also the school’s job to make their students feel loved and accepted regardless of SOGIE.

In my opinion, they still haven’t grasped how to properly apply SOGIE in their handling of students, but they are taking a step in the right direction. Gender neutral bathrooms, wearing of uniforms in accordance to one’s own identity, and wearing makeup are all the bare minimum things an establishment can provide to create a safe space for their students, we only ask the university to properly educate their staff on how to treat their students with

- Gerome Manalo, 2nd year, BS

dNU STAFF on SOGIE

Naiintindihan naman ng staff ang SOGIE especially with the younger professors, nafeel ko na very open naman sila about LGBT. Some of them even try and educate my classmates. Although there are still some people na may reservations. Some of them even try na iwasan ‘yong topic. Happy ako, they

are trying to push inclusivity. Sa non-teaching staff ‘di naman ako nakaexperience ng homophobia. I think open naman sila since every day may nakakasalamuha sila.

- Eugeni Belches, 3rd year, BA Education

Sa faculty and staff, maybe it’s just the introvert in me, I only talk to a few profs. So far wala pa naman ako na-meet na homophobic or transphobic. Although there are professors that are a bit stereotypical and sexist. I think that there just needs to be more education sa teaching staff… because SOGIE includes everyone.

- Erin Arcilla, 3rd year, BS Psychology

Napansin ko iyong iba kong friends na non-conforming sa binary ng gender standard, iyong mga guards natin parang may reservations pa rin. I think hindi lang dapat iyong faculty ang dapat ma-educate about SOGIE, pati rin sana iyong staff, like university guards, custodians etc. Para maka-catch up din sila. I think pwede rin siyang ilunsad, magkaroon ng educational discussion between the staff, like kung ano ang SOGIE, kung bakit kailangan natin i-push ang SOGIE, ano ang benefits if mare-recognize natin ang SOGIE in society.

I think what they’re doing (the university) in the past few years about SOGIE is ginagawan lang nila ng band aid solution and not actually addressing the current situation. Kahit irason pa nila na they’re still trying to unlearn or trying to be more knowledgeable, dapat ang may control niyan iyong students and hindi iyong admin, kasi hindi naman sila (admin) iyong maaagrabyado.

- Zarah Gayanilo, 2nd year, BS Digital Animation

Sa department ko, masasabi ko talaga na wholeheartedly akong ina-accept kung ano ako. Sa Education department ako, masasabi ko talaga na rine-respect nila ako, kung ano ang SOGIE ko. Alam na nila pronouns ko. May mga teacher din tayo na member ng LGBT. Nakaka-chika ko rin sila. In the past decades nga raw eh, may grupo nga raw dito sa Ateneo na puro LGBT.

- Patricia Velasco, 2nd year, BA Education

Majority do have a good grasp of SOGIE but of course there will always be those that refuse to open up their minds towards a more progressive and inclusive belief. I have no qualms with the non-teaching staff save for a few security guards. I was once profiled for “cross dressing” for wearing a blouse, they asked me if I had a permit to be “acting this way”. It was upsetting to say the least, no student should feel the need to justify how they express themselves especially if it isn’t in a lewd or a provocative manner.

- Eugeni Belches, 3rd year, BA Education

As much as I want to believe that most of the students are well-versed or at least know SOGIE, I think that there’s a lack of understanding, especially gender identity. There are still people that get confused with labels and what those labels mean. I think that there is still a long way to go, even though there are students that spoke against the issue, it’s still alarming. Even if there are students that know about the issues in SOGIE, there needs to be more active and urgent actions regarding educating students and staff. Ateneo is a growing population and students are getting more diverse, and as time progresses, there has to be a transition from being a university that just tolerates it, to a university that actually is aware, knowledgeable and also accepting of every students’ identity.

What can help is the student government. There are organizations that speak about it, like Pillars asking for opinions. The student government is the one that can take the calls of the students and actually be able to bring it up to the admin and maybe even apply pressure. That’s something that I know when it comes to student leadership, especially if you’re in the student government, you’re there to hear the cries of the student body. Ikaw talaga ang makakagawa ng action.

- Gerome Manalo, 2ndt year, BS Biology

AdNU STUDENTS on SOGIE

I think hindi, meron iba na knowledgeable about SOGIE. Meron iba na heterosexual na akala nila na for LGBT lang ang SOGIE. There is still that notion. Nakikita ko naman na very vocal sila (students) sa social media. Like ‘yong sa “Allowing One to Dress According to Their Gender Identity,” maraming nagvoice out ng frustrations nila and maraming naeducate and nakarating naman sa kinauukulan ‘yong issue.

- Erin Arcilla, 3rd year, BS Psychology

I think meron naman (understanding of SOGIE), kasi halos lahat naman ng friends ko ay gay. Pero I think dapat mas lumawak pa iyong discussion about SOGIE, para iyong ibang students na hindi pa fully grasp ang SOGIE, at least makipag-engage din [sic] sila. Kasi nasasanay tayo na iyong mga students nags-shy away sa ganyang mga discussions ‘pag hindi pa nila alam.

Nakikita ko rin iyong mga webinars na naho-hold sa school and that’s good. Pero karamihan ng conversations about SOGIE held pa rin by queer people, so imagine if minority ang queers sa university, parang walang conversations na mags-spark. Sana mas naging consistent pa (ang student body) sa pag-bring up ng conversations na iyon (about SOGIE) kasi ngayon parang it just died down.

- Zarah Gayanilo, 2nd year, BS Digital Animation

Masasabi ko talaga na sa mga nakakasalamuha ko, may idea naman na sila about SOGIE. So in terms naman dito sa mga nakakasalamuha ko, ‘pag nac-curious sila about sa mga gender topics, ine-explain ko rin naman sa kanila. Ano raw ang sexual orientation, gender identity?

- Patricia Velasco, 2nd year, BA Education

In this day and age where the maority of students have access to social media there is bound to be talk and traction regarding contemporary and societal issues such as gender constructs and gender roles. There is without a doubt that our calls and cries to be seen, heard, and accepted, which we shouldn’t even feel the need to cry out for these things, are being heard by the administration. If they plan to do something about (them), that, I’m not sure, but one can be hopeful that someday no student will ever feel discriminated against or demonized.

- Gerome Manalo, 2nd year, BS Biology

https://www.pexels.com/photo/photograph-of-the-statue-of-david-of-michelangelo-15119289/

Layout by Guia Isabel Villafuerte

Hell is not a place

Our ideas of heaven and hell varied as we went through different phases of our life. As kids, we viewed the two as simple as our childhood game. “Langit, lupa, impyerno. Im- im- impyerno,” we used to chant – where heaven simply meant an elevated base and hell was merely ground level. When we first encountered our religious study, we then had a hint of how heaven and hell looked like as a realm. The former was said to be the paradise where no hurt or hunger ever existed, while the latter was described as nothing more than hellfire and suffering.

But the truth is, we never really had a taste of heaven and hell until reality slapped us hard in the face — a triangle that only meant a shape to us as kids now represents the dreadful hierarchy. The class struggle slowly becomes evident as the gap between us and the one percent widens. Suddenly, injustice washes away our innocence. We never really knew hell until basic needs like food and shelter seemed like luxuries only the rich could afford. Education, food security, justice, and welfare are all privileges of the elite. Opportunities keep sliding off our hands as we struggle to survive each agonizing day while everything’s easy

for the wealthy and fortunate. While we struggle for life, for them, it is even easier to take one’s basic human rights. We never really knew how hell felt like until the trigger was pulled and the blood splattered. And suddenly the question popped in our heads – “Why me?”

Now, it all makes sense. Hell is neither a place nor a spiritual realm. One needs not to die to experience the deep hollow pit of unquenchable fire. One only needs to be born under a regime of a tyrannical lapdog like Rodrigo Duterte and Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to know what hell truly meant.

Hell is neither a place nor a spiritual realm. Hell is the brutal living conditions and the rotting judicial system in the Philippines that makes life unsurvivable for Filipinos. Hell does not compare to the agonizing pain of existing while knowing about the wrongful death of a loved one.

Approximately 30,000 Filipinos, mostly urban-poor, were slain in vigilante-style killings during the peak of Duterte’s war on drugs campaign. Duterte’s legacy of bloodbath and crimes against humanity claimed the lives of 427 activists, human rights defenders, and grassroots organizers; 166 land and environmental defenders; 23 media workers and journalists; 66 judges, lawyers, and prosecutors, and; 28 local political leaders.

Despite these records or his ambitious promise of change, Duterte ended his term with still no strong manifestation that the problem of drugs was resolved or even lessened. If any, Duterte was only successful in making sure that living under his regime will remain to feel suffocating like a slow, painful death – just like that. Just like hell.

And just when we had the littlest gleam of hope when his term was about to end, another cold-blooded murderer took over his post – and he is just as guilty as his predecessor.

The legacy Duterte started is being carried through by Marcos Jr. Extrajudicial killings still happen today — even without Duterte as president — and our province is no exception to these injustices.

Records show that as of 30 June 2023, at least 16 extrajudicial killings in Bicol had been documented by Karapatan, a human rights alliance.

The Marcos Jr. and Sara Duterte tandem has ensured that policies endangering the Filipinos’ rights and freedom stayed firmly. Through Executive Order 70, Proclamation 374, and Memorandum Order 32, the administration was able to: (1) create the National Task Force to End

Living in a Bubble

against oppression and tyranny. It juxtaposed this historical involvement with the contemporaneous decline in the university’s commitment to social justice. The article aimed to serve as a direct call to both student leaders and the broader student body, seeking to stress their apparent disengagement and lack of apathy regarding these critical issues at that time.

Regrettably, despite the initial callout, the prevailing sentiment persists within the Ateneo community without due acknowledgment of its gravity up to the present day. This is particularly concerning amidst the escalating prevalence of pressing societal issues and injustices, such as Red-tagging, Tuition and Other Fees Increase, Public Utility Vehicle phaseouts, and Mandatory Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC). There is an observable trend of growing complacency among students, often accompanied by a lack of apathy among the marginalized. Hence, the issue at hand extends beyond mere student apathy; it appears to be rooted more in a pervasive state of student ignorance.

The concepts of “magis” and being “men and women for and with others”

have long been ingrained in the Ignatian core values of Ateneo. However, as time progresses, it seems that the Ateneo community is gradually losing sight of the true essence of these values. They are often used superficially or fail to serve their intended purpose. It is crucial for both the institution and the community to reassess the authentic lessons encapsulated by these values. In navigating the complex challenges of our current status quo, the necessity for genuine student involvement becomes increasingly urgent.

The moment has arrived to reexamine the fundamental principles that define our roles as Ateneans and leaders within our community.

Lack of social awareness

The assumption leans more towards student ignorance not because the circumstances no longer suggest a lack of apathy from the students, but rather due to a potential conscious choice on their part to neglect such important societal matters. Ignorance also evinces a significant lack of social awareness among students. Consequently, this lack of knowledge potentially begets a lack of apathy, and vice versa, forming a vicious cycle that contributes to the persistence of the quandary and existing problems inside the university.

In today’s context, there is a noticeable disconnection between students and current social realities. Many are uninformed about the existing conditions, and even more concerning is their selective involvement in these matters. This detachment appears to stem from a sense of privilege. Not engaging with these societal issues becomes a conscious choice, resembling a failure to support the oppressed and inadvertently aligning with the oppressor.

This stark reality is disheartening; it reflects an ignorance that overlooks the interconnectedness between these social issues and the lives of students. It’s crucial to recognize that these social challenges significantly affect us at some point, shaping our experiences and future. Thus, the students’ lack of social awareness hampers their ability to comprehend the impacts these issues have on their respective lives.

Deafening silence

Unfortunately, there still appears to be a decline in student activism within the Ateneo community, possibly due to the fear caused by rampant red-tagging. However, this deteriorating occurrence could be reversed if student organizations and the student body work together to collectively address crucial societal issues using their rights and power as students.

Despite the alarming challenges faced by the youth and specifically the Ateneo student body, there remains a lack of acknowledgment concerning the gravity of their social responsibilities. Some students choose to remain silent on pressing issues, such as the recent tuition and other fees increase at Ateneo.

Surprisingly, there seems to be a noticeable absence of concern or active engagement from students on these matters. This lack of response may have various underlying factors, yet again, it highlights a concerning trend of disengagement and a potential unawareness or worse, ignorance of the broader impact of these issues within the student community.

Role of student leaders

This is where the pivotal role of student leaders comes into play. Acknowledging the immense influence they hold over the student body, they bear the heavy responsibility of representation, spearheading initiatives, and

Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) which is at the frontline of labeling civilians and critics as terrorists; (2) declare the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) as a “designated/ identified” terrorist organization under the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, and; (3) orchestrate intensified counterinsurgency operations in the Negros Island, Leyte-Samar, and Bicol region which resulted to several enforced disappearances, human rights violations, and peasant killings.

These machineries also enabled heightened crackdown and harassment of Bicolano activists, instilling fear and intimidation to silence critical voices. Despite being situated in the city, residents of some areas in Naga, such as Concepcion, experience militarization and threats by state forces. Multiple reports were also documented that students residing in nearby barangays and municipalities have experienced house-to-house visits by military troops, asking invasive questions and red-tagging other activists.

Cases where the military forces civilians to sign up as fake surrenderees have long been revealed by several activists. Unfortunately, Bicolano activists and even students are not spared from such tactics and continue to face their worst fears.

Despite the harsh reality and the piling cases of human rights violations, Marcos Jr.’s silence persists. However, his silence does not spare him from accountability for all the injustices happening under his watch while he enjoys his luxurious trips. Progressive groups continue to advocate for the abolition of NTF-ELCAC and the resumption of genuine peace talks where the demands and concerns of the masses will be heard and addressed. As the president, he has the power to junk exploitative Duterte-era policies such as the Anti-Terror Law and Cyberlibel which persist in abusing the masses and the critics. Marcos Jr. owes the thousands of victims of extrajudicial killings the long overdue justice by allowing the International Criminal Court (ICC) to investigate Duterte’s drug war. Most importantly, he owes the Filipinos a good, clean, and progressive governance as the country’s elected leader. But by far, Marcos Jr. has been nothing but a failure as Filipinos continue to feel the burden of inflation, impunity, and lack of justice and accountability.

Fascists like the Dutertes and the Marcoses kill for greed. Fascists like them deserve no forgiveness for the hell they created in every Filipino’s life.

References: Gavilan, J. (2022). Six years of blood and violence: People we lost under Duterte. Rappler. Retrieved from https://www.rappler.com/newsbreak/iq/duterte-administration-bloodviolence-drug-war-lawyers-activists-mayors-vice-mayors-killed/ Ocampo, S. (2023). Human rights violations in Marcos Jr.’s first year. The Philippine Star. Retrieved from https://www.philstar.com/opinion/2023/07/15/2281114/human-rightsviolations-marcos-jrs-first-year

providing support. While there is considerable enthusiasm and hope for the new cohort of student leaders at Ateneo, it is imperative for them to rise to the occasion, particularly as numerous pressing issues have emerged during their tenure.

Moreover, given the evident shortcomings of the university administration in ensuring the safety and welfare of its students, it amplifies the pressure on student leaders. They are compelled to advocate both for the administration’s accountability and the proactive engagement of the student body in addressing critical issues. A very timely example is the recent alarming incidents of red-tagging targeting campus journalists and student leaders in Ateneo.

It is disappointing that despite a considerable show of solidarity from several student organizations in support of those targeted by state forces, this collective outcry has not garnered adequate attention from the administration. There persists a lack of empathy and active involvement. An educational institution holds the responsibility of ensuring the protection of its students, both within and beyond the campus.

Red-tagging is a grave concern. Students ought to be vigilant and alarmed about these ongoing instances of harassment, recognizing that any one of them could potentially fall victim to such tactics and abuses of power.

Given the recent events within the campus, it becomes crucial for students to move beyond mere superficial adherence to the Ignatian core values. It is insufficient to merely perform these values; it is time for us, as students, to have our own musings and understand the real essence these values seek to instill in us. Perhaps, it is even time to redefine them according to our realities and experiences. The identity of Ateneans is shaped by us, the students, and I hold immense hope that Ateneans are individuals of principled action — proactive, empathetic, and smart.

Realizing these values demands more than lip service; it demands an earnest commitment to social justice and a proactive stance in addressing societal issues.

It is in this genuine pursuit of these values that the true character and essence of being Ateneans are revealed. Hence, let me reiterate and rephrase a sentence that was highlighted in the mentioned editorial article: “The Ignatian core values are rendered pointless when students are entrapped and socially dulled in the four corners of a classroom.”

Values and principles are intertwined together, they speak a lot about ourselves. However, possessing these things is not enough and is futile if we remain living in a bubble. It is integral for us, especially as part of the youth who have a huge influence and impact on society to burst out of our bubbles and immerse ourselves in the social realities outside. Let us become vessels to serve the people, as the real privilege lies in the opportunity we have to explore the complexities of society and utilize them to grow and learn.

Reference: (2020, January). Ateneo atop the hill [Editorial]. ThePILLARS Publication, 57(1), 1. Retrieved from https://issuu.com/ thepillarspub/docs/thepillars_vol._lvii__issue_no._1_-_june_2018-may_

What She Said

Trigger Warning: Mentioning of Sexual Assault, Abuse, and Harassment

Sometime in January of 2019, I was on my way home from school, and like most days, I found myself jam-packed on the bus, sitting by the aisle on the right. The air was cold but mundane, like all other commute rides I have been on until suddenly I felt something stroking the side of my hip. Confused by what was going on, I brushed it off, thinking that the man sitting next to me was just grabbing something from his bag. Still, it persisted until he uttered “Para!” and moved on with his life while I sat on the edge of my seat, to this day, still haunted by that memory since—that was the night I was sexually assaulted for the first time.

While it may appear easy to say, “Why didn’t you say or do something?”, it seems like a completely different experience being in that situation yourself. At that time, I was left utterly speechless; I didn’t know what to do, what to say, or how to get out. All I knew was I wanted to scream “Stop!” but I couldn’t because I was afraid. Afraid of what was going on but more so afraid of causing a scene.

Speak not…

Trigger Warning: Mentioning of Self-Harm and Suicide

magine.

You’re feeling bored. An ordinary day in a room and simply sitting in a dusty corner, drowned out by different kinds of murmurs, stories, and “spilling the teas.” Then, from those lighthearted conversations, an unforeseen pressing topic just introduces itself, completely disrupting the vibe, and unexpectedly someone just blurts out, “I want to k*ll myself.”

A sudden jolt shot down from your spine to your head as you contemplated what you just heard. Then, out of nowhere, a burst of laughter fills the empty room. As you thought to yourself, “What just happened? Is k*lling yourself something really funny now?” Trying not to seem uncomfortable, you awkwardly laugh it off. Then you realize that self-harm and anything associated with mental health concerns can easily be thrown into any conversation as a form of banter today.

After that encounter, it still baffles me how another person was capable of doing that to a seventeen-year-old senior high school girl just wearing her PE uniform with a shirt saying “ATENEO” on her bus ride home. On the other hand, others might argue that some have had worse experiences but it is through instances like this that begs the question, do safe spaces still even exist?

Of course, the answer to this question is yes. They do. Many consider their homes to be safe, their relationships to be a source of security, and even their schools to be somewhere assured of protection. But the problem lies in why aren’t all spaces safer.

At the end of November, several female students braved and came out with their stories of sexual assault and abuse that they’ve experienced from fellow male students from the university. Expectedly, this caused a riot, especially online. Receipts were uncovered, personal anecdotes to support certain sides were claimed, and statements were posted. Discussions revolving around this topic buzzed and extended outside the echo chambers of social media. Everywhere I went, no matter who I was with, these topics were always brought up in one way or another. It wasn’t just the talk of the campus, it extended beyond that and for obvious reasons, Ateneo de Naga University (AdNU) is not new to these kinds of issues.

Throughout the years, there have been similar cases that have made their way towards the public audience. When these recent issues boomed, I couldn’t help but recall the beginning of the pandemic when a similar issue involving a previous senior high school student was revealed to be a perpetrator of sexual abuse, with many of his victims unveiling proof and screenshots of the allegations, all of which spread like wildfire on Twitter. The talk about this problem spawned various other posts including edits and memes denouncing the offender for his vile actions and words.

Perhaps for the sake of understanding what could have been the reason for these malicious wrongdoings, this topic was somehow brought up in our Introduction to Psychology class. One of my classmates asked something about this issue which our professor was already aware of and she replied by saying something along the lines of “There could’ve been a better way to address the issue without using social media”. This made me think if what she said was right. Frankly, there is, indeed, truth to her statement. Without having used social media, this entire debacle might have been settled legally with other necessary interventions, where the involved students and the institution might have not been exposed as much and the scrutiny and damage might have been controlled.

Still, I am more inclined to think otherwise. Social media, despite its lapses, is a powerful vessel for bringing forth the truth and initiating proactive change.

In the absence of existing safe spaces, individuals may be able to cultivate a safe space of their own through the platform and audience they have online, reaching a larger demographic and enabling pressing issues to be addressed or, at the very least, talked about, regardless if it were to cause a scene.

Matters have been taken into their own hands when students and organizations have been making testimonies condemning the actions of the perpetrators and commending the victims for speaking up, knowing the difficulties.

Although a different concern, something similar has also occurred recently where a number of AdNU student leaders, activists, and journalists have been red-tagged, receiving unsolicited invites, calls, and harassment from armed personnel. These plights made the publication release two statements so far, calling the attention of the institution to protect its students. Meanwhile from the other end, radio silence.

The emergence and resurfacing of the likes of these prompt a larger debate over what the university is doing about the circumstances—because, in more ways than one, this concerns the entire institution. When problems like these have been coming to light back and forth where the integral safety of students is shaken, wouldn’t a statement from the administration be the bare minimum? Unfortunately, even the bare minimum is nowhere to be seen.

In a university where one of the core values is being men and women for and with others, who have courses dedicated to holistic formation purposes, and whose entire legacy is to serve those in need and to progressively nurture young minds to do what is for the greater glory, do all of these still ring true or are they merely a vision built up to protect the pristine image Ateneo is so terrified to ruin? Alas, other terrifying things are happening as we speak.

These are not just superficial problems that people suddenly decided to nitpick on, these are actual stories and truths that students from this very university have had and still live through. To say that these realities are troubling is an understatement beyond great disbelief. The “buzz” surrounding these concerns will never truly go away, it will always linger just like how it had in the past, unless something is actively and collectively done about it.

Everywhere could be safer. AdNU could be safer

All spaces should be safe spaces.

Is our generation so desensitized that we are numb and insensitive enough to just say what we want to say?

With the advancement of social media, we fear that as technology grows, the overuse of trendy psychological terms in pop psychology is also becoming more prone to misuse, leading to misinformation and misinterpretation.

Did you know that, according to Merriam-Webster, the word of the year 2022 is gaslighting? Most people assume that gaslighting means lying, being mean and rude, or simply indifference. However, the dark reality of the word “gaslighting” pertains to a covert type of manipulation where a person starts to question one’s sanity and perception of reality, usually occurring in abusive relationships (Gordon, 2023; Haupt, 2023).

As mental health professionals and psychology students try to raise awareness by destigmatizing misconceptions about psychological disorders and terms, or mental health in general, proper and appropriate usage of psychological vocabulary is still at risk of being wrongly conceived by common people. Sometimes, one viral TikTok or Facebook post is all it takes to launch a psychological word into the digital world that may easily lead to the public’s confusion. As people continuously misrepresent and overuse these words, it further trivializes the meaning and casualizes the usage of most psychological terms; it causes a dilution in social media into the minds of netizens. This causes more harm to people who are diagnosed with mental health disorders, and undiagnosed people may find it harder to seek professional psychological help as the proliferation of the said problem persists (Harbeck, 2023; Haupt, 2023; Lilienfeld, 2015; Warren, 2023).

Honestly, it is hard to correct or educate people nowadays. When you tell them they are misusing certain terms, such as “traumatizing,” it could come off as you’re invalidating them, but in actuality, the purpose is just to clear out what someone is feeling and not diminish it into something less. It is okay to express melancholy, cringe, embarrassment, or frustration. But we also need to understand that our words reflect, and if we overuse some words that are deeply correlated with psychology and psychiatry, there is a possibility that we deprecate these words, leading to the desensitization of people who are actually experiencing diagnosed trauma.

We need to remember that not everything is invalidation; sometimes we need to see and learn that psychological words are not your usual trendy slang—these words define and illustrate the very dark path that people’s minds have gone through and are still

probably going through.

Comprehending and grasping what these words mean and using them properly and appropriately can be a stepping stone to further removing stigma in mental and psychological health. We need to understand the gravity of how seriously our usage and choices of words may affect people. That is why, when you hear someone misusing a psychological or mental health term, calmly and deliberately speak up and help them to be aware of the proper meaning and usage of the terms they use.

Using our social media as platforms with proper management also helps with destigmatizing problems revolving around mental health. Every little thing and effort counts in helping break down the stigma around mental health—let us become the voice of reason and change.

You never know how much words can invalidate and hurt people. Remember that we use our words to define, describe, and express— not to mislead or misinform people.

Speak carefully, sensitively, and kindly.

References

Gordon, S. (2023). Is someone gaslighting you? Learn the warning signs. Very Well Mind. Retrieved December 19, 2023 from https://www.verywellmind.com/issomeone-gaslighting-you-4147470 Harbeck, J. (2016). 10 commonly abused psychology words — and what they really mean. The Week. Retrieved December 19, 2023 from https://theweek.com/ articles/603303/10-commonly-abused-psychology-words--what-really-mean Haupt, A. (2023). Gaslighting, narcissist, and more psychology terms you’re misusing. Time. Retrieved December 19, 2023 from https://time.com/6262891/ psychology-terms-misused-gaslighting-toxic-narcissist/ Lilienfeld, S. (2015). Fifty psychological and psychiatric terms to avoid: a list of inaccurate, misleading, misused, ambiguous, and logically confused words and phrases. Frontiers. Retrieved December 19, 2023 from https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01100 Merriam-Webster Dictionary. (2023). Word of the year 2022. Retrieved December 19, 2023 from https://www.merriam-webster.com/wordplay/word-of-the-year2022#:~:text=Word%20of%20the%20Year%202022%20%7C%20Gaslighting%20 %7C%20Merriam%2DWebster&text=Until%2C%20Till%2C%20’Til%2C%20or%20’Till%3F SonderMind. (2023). From gaslighting to narcissist: Commonly misused pop psychology terms (and what they really mean). Retrieved December 19, 2023 from https://www.sondermind.com/resources/articles-and-content/commonlymisused-pop-psychology-terms/ Warren, H. (2023). Misused psych terms: what do they actually mean? Baylor College of Medicine. Retrieved December 19, 2023 from https://blogs.bcm. edu/2023/10/10/misused-psych-terms-what-do-they-actually-mean/

Layout by Edward Alipio and Photos by Patricia Noelle Bongalos and Jam Mazo

By Alia Angela Turiano

By Salvador Ferro III

By Salvador Ferro III

MAGIS: Amaccana Ateneo!

ellu hellu, sawadika, hellu universe! Baka pili na lang saindo ang nakatatanda sako ta haloy man gayod ako nawara pero now I’m back! Sa hinaloy haloy ko mang nawara, dakol man gayod naganap sa campus kaya nag-pile up na gabos, nakakalerki! Syempre dakol ganap, dakol man chismis! Pero don’t worry, yaon nanggad ako para mag-serve saindo ning kumukulo kulo pang mga tea!

I’m sowwy guyz if haloy akong nawara, I just came from a very distressing experience kasi like grabe yung 2023, glad that year’s over! Aram daw nindo, nakakasuya kaya mga students digdi sa AdNU ta kung dae may mga commitment issues, most probably mga cheater. Like guyz, come on, y’all can do better than that! Kaya nararaot image kang generation ta kawasa ta dakulon issue tsaka kalokohan na ginigiribo. Dakol man celebrity-like sa campus ta na may pa-expose ning saindang mga cheater ex na nagpasabog ning mga group chats ta online, aminin nindo yan! Love that for them! Pero tano man itong saro binalikan pa nanggad dawa aram naman na cheater? You go gurl! Dakol kayan digdi sa skul, itong iba ngani parehas man lang nag-chicheat sa kada saro pero sinda pa nanggad hanggang ngunyan, like, okay, maglokohan kayo, I guess?

Si iba man diyan, panay entertain ning possible love interest ninda pero pag-abot ning haraputan na kang label, mayo na ning say si accla. Like teh, tano ka mang-lilead on ning tao kung dae ka man palan ready for commitment!? Sa puon lang kamo maurag, may pa-update update pa kamong na aaraman tapos paghinapot kung ano kita, masaya!? friends!? shuta ka teh. Dae kamo arog kayan ta kung friends lang baya ayuson nindo gestures and treatments samo para dae man kami dehado sa huri. Hirak man kaming may mga attachment issues, tapos ano sa huri kami man lang ma-relapse pag 10 pm!? *Alexa play Backburner by NIKI*

Hirak man kaming mga weak when it comes to love. Speaking of weak, saro man ba kamo sa mga nasusuya sa College Learning Hub ta? Gurl, pawara wara siya, it’s giving unstable like my mental health. Pano na lang si mga nag-oonline class digdi sa campus o may mga ginigiribo online? Tapos gurano binabayadan ta? Ang initial internet fee ta ay P478 sa matri!? As students na under the blended online learning system nakakaloka siya ta dae mo mafeel si tig babayadan mo.

Naka-gugutom din palan magpara rant, gusto ko man sana magkakan sa Bonoan kaso mayo na naman gayod duman espasyo para sa arog kong college student. I mean, no hate sa mga senior high students pero pano-pano ninda always ang cafeteria pagkarakanan na, considering meron man sindang sadiri nindang cafeteria sa Belardo. Sain na kami maturukaw kani? Nalipasan na gayod ako ning gutom, mayo pa nanggad matutukawan. Kaipuhan na siguro digdi sato magkaigwa ning dagdag na space na pwedeng kakanan ta dae na kinakaraya sa dakol ning students na nag-aavail sa cafeteria.

Anyway guys, tag-ulan na naman, stay dry saindo tsaka magdarara kamo ning payong ta aram ta man na mayo saindo mapayong. Sheket! Dae kita gabi na waterproof, masakit pati magkahilang ngunyan ta paminsan mayo mang suspension satong mga college students. Literal na binabaragyo na buong Cam Sur pero exemption pirmi ang AdNU as if may invisible shield kita. Kung ma-suspend man, kung nuarin nagralaog na mga estudyante saka lang ma-announce suspension liek okay, let’s just pretend dae ako naka-istar sa harayo na lugar. War flashback sato si mga aldaw na tig babaraha na kita digdi sa campus pero dae pa nanggad nag-suspend ning klase. Kaya dezurv man magibuhan ning mga memes online. Kaya siguro mahal tuition ta igwa kitang resort asin waterpark sa laog ning campus. Nue gagawen? Swimming na lang kita pag binaha ulit ta so far mayo lamang akong nahihiling na disaster preparedness digdi sa AdNU. May jeep man kuta para ihatod estudyante

paluwas kampus kaso nagkawawaralat baga si iba, hirak man. No to Jeepney Phaseot by the way!

Additionally, hirak man talaga kita ta lalo bagang nagmamahal ang tuition ta. Ang kaso, garo baga dae man kita nasabihan na mataraas palan ang tuition ta. Seven percent increase pati na dati baga 5% lang ang pinakadakulang hike na tig propose. Ang sabi pa pati ‘not intended for everyone’ daa ang information na tig disseminate. Tano man dae intended sa gabos? Eh gabos man kitang mga estudyante mag-su-suffer sa 7% na yan! Pero para man daa ‘to sa mga hardworking professors ta igdi sa AdNU (?) Tapos dahil daa sa inflation, liek it’s giving reasons, reasons, reasons! Ultimately, kasalan talaga ini ni Marcos kung tano nagkakaararog kita kani. Garo baga puon kang nagtukaw yan sa pwesto mayo nang maray na nangyayari. Hoy hoy hoy, baka ara-atyan kayan ako naman ang ma-redtag igdi. Peace lang kita mga vebz. Basta daa pati Atenista, aktebista, liek ano problema mo!? It’s 2024, dapat aram na nindo gabos na “Activism is NOT Terrorism,” parang hindi nag-grade 2 ‘tong mga red-taggers na ‘to. Go, doon sa far away!

Ang mga Atenista kaya, mga magis yan. Kadaklan diyan mga BS org to the point na dae na ninda nagka-mamanage ang mga gibuhon. Oo, ikaw na ‘to teh! Pero at least, tatao man mag commit; SA ORGS. Hanggang orgs lang kaya mag-commit HAHAHA TAWA NA LANG. Ang iba raw tho, nagpapara shared post ning mga “Never again. Never forget.”-type-of-posts pero pag hinapot mo naman kung anong opinion ninda about sa socio-political issues, mayo nang say or mayo maboka ang mga anteh mo! Forda clout lang palan si pag-join ni anteh sa dp blasts and pag-share posts huhu. In short, performative ang mga anteh! Bato-bato sa sky, ang matamaan don’t cry.

Anyway, speaking of social issues, nakakaloka teh pagkatalamak ning red-tagging kaning mga nakaaging bulan. Until now actually dae kita makampante kasi anytime baka kita man ang targeton kang mga panget na yan. Grabe tong mga nagruluwas na statement kang manlain-lain na individuals about sa mga nangyari sainda. Grabe ano? Nagkakakurua baya ninda ang mga info kang students — kung sain nakaistar, etc. Kaya ako I don’t feel safe anymore dawa sa laog kang campus. Anyone can be a red-tagger, and anyone can be red-tagged. Pero aram nindo ang mas malala diyan, despite the red-tagging incidents, harassments, and ongoing surveillance na nangyayari sa mga estudyante kang Ateneo, particularly mga campus journalists asin student leaders, mayo man lang tig gibo ang admin about it, liek, okay, give us nothing! Dae ako makapaniwala na ini si napili kong educational institution — dae handa ipaglaban ang estudyante ninda pag nasa arog na kaining mga pangyayari.

Kaya naman nabalitaan ko na itong bagong isyu ning diyaryo daa kang pub ay mainly focused talaga sa mga nangyayaring red-tagging incidents sa mga estudyante. Kaya dae nindo balewalaon lang ining papel na ini ta dae lang ini basta bastang diyaryo, it’s also a call saindong mga parte kang Ateneo community na makisaro sa call sa satuyang administrasyon na #AdNUProtectYourStudents. Also, mind y’all lang din na binabayadan nindo ining papel na ini kaya paki-ingatan na lang din. Saka dagdag pa na magkurua na kamo tabi ng mga past issues din ng pub ta hirak man opisina ninda ta nakatarambak na baga mga diyaryo duman. Pwede man kamo maghagad magsiriring na lang kamo duman.

Kapagal mag para chika! Yan man lang gabos for now ang mga i-spill ko ta dakol pa man opportunity para maka-chika ulit ako saindo. Sana nag-enjoy kamo diba? Since bagong taon na sana magabaragong buhay na rin kay! Sana maging maayos na gayod ang sistema sa Ateneo. Kamo rin mga estudyante, magarayos ayos tabi ta dae ako nauugma sa ginigiribo nindo. Here’s to healing this 2024, EME! Here’s to more progressive Ateneo community this 2024! K, bye mga bading, ‘til next time!

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