Filipino students, parents share sentiments on blended learning
BY XAVIER CLAY ARDILLO
Two students from Angeles University Foundation (AUF) represented their respective barangays in the beauty pageant, Mutya Ning Angeles (MNA) 2022.
Among the 27 candidates who attended the MNA’s screening held on September 3, only 18 remained as official candidates; two Angeleneans—Maricar Tanhueco and Desielyn Layug— earned a spot.
Tanhueco, a 20-year-old Business Management major, was candidate 10 and represented Barangay Pandan; Layug, a
20-year-old Medical Technology student, was candidate 12 and represented Barangay Lourdes Northwest.
During the formal introduction of candidates, Tanhueco shared her will to enter a global competition.
“I am aiming to be in [on] an international stage where I can use this platform to influence other people, to help them, encourage them, and motivate them in becoming the best versions of themselves,” said Tanhueco.
MNA is the city’s prestigious event, and 2022 marked its return after a two-year hiatus due to the
pandemic, as remarked by the City Information Office of Angeles.
“The city will hold a grand and special celebration for the 30th year of the beauty pageant,” they added.
Before the call for applicants, Tanhueco won the Ms. University crown of AUF for the previous academic year in April.
The coronation night for the MNA, co-presented by the Beautéderm Corporation, was on December 8 at the Grand Palazzo Royale, where the winner, Joanne Marie Thornley of Barangay Balibago, took home one million pesos worth of prizes.
After the pandemic, The Pioneer conducted again an executive committee training for the AUF Press Club comprised of the eight college publications, yesterday at St. John Paul II Lecture Hall.
Among the participating publications were Teacher’s Pen - College of Education (CED), Nurscene - College of Nursing (CON), The Allimed Explorer - College of Allied Medical
Professions (CAMP), Tradewings - College of Business and Accountancy (CBA), including the newly revived Lighthouse - College of Arts and Sciences (CAS), CrimWatch - College of Criminal Justice Education (CCJE), Perspective - College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA), and Datalink - College of Computer Studies (CCS).
The Pioneer invited two of AUF’s Top Outstanding Students (TOS) 2022 awardees namely
Ma. Rheanna Tuazon, TOS for Journalism, and Michelle Calabia, TOS for Leadership, to speak about campus press management and leadership respectively.
Tuazon echoed how this faceto-face training is conducive as the Coronavirus outbreak limited the recent years of her EIC-ship to webinar training.
“It’s really refreshing to see an in-person training for college publications. As far as I know,
the last one was still in 2014,” she shared.
Incumbent Editor in Chief Adrian Poul T. Blando announced the upcoming Tayid-Tayid series where the college publication could participate to improve their journalism skills.
Said training is to hone campus journalism skills and empower the committee of each college publication to lead effectively and with constancy and consistency.
BY LARK JOSHUA GATBUNTON
Parents and students expressed their insights about blended learning as a response to the institutionalization of the Department of Education (DepEd) of the said setup to resolve the lack of classrooms.
On November 3, Vice President and DepEd Secretary Sara Duterte signed the DepEd Order No. 50 series of 2022, which contains the guidelines that allow schools with “exceptional circumstances” to continue Blended Learning by submitting a request.
In a series of interviews, most parents and guardians of the students favored implementing the blended learning setup as they agree it would solve the current classroom shortages.
“For me, I think maganda naman siyang idea. Instead of pilitin nilang ipagsiksikan ang mga students sa school which is hassle not only sa part ng student kundi sa part ng school, teachers and parents
also [For me, I believe it is a good idea. Forcing students to overfill the classrooms in school is a hassle not only for learners but also for the school, teachers, and parents],” a guardian of a student stated.
“For me, yes kasi kung hindi naman enough yung classroom tsaka ‘yung mga resources na gagamitin ng mga estudyante [tsaka] ‘yung mga staff and students lang din ang mahihirapan at kahit blended
learning ‘yung gagawin ay hindi naman ganu’n kalaki ‘yung impact sa students and para rin sa kapakanan ng mga students sa kanilang health [I agree if the classrooms and resources are not enough for the students to use, the staff and the students are the ones who will have a hard time, and even if blended learning gets implemented, it will not have a significant impact on students],” a Senior High School (SHS) student shared as well.
Angeles University Foundation remains the home of topnotchers in Central Luzon with its impressive performance, producing eight topnotchers on the following licensure exams:
9 Alfonso, Anthony Marc
*Data posted are from August to December 2022 only.
Moreover, health safety threatened by the pandemic is one reason for some parents’ agreement with the implementation. Despite the understanding of parents and learners, some students also voiced their disagreement with the said implementation.
Confucius Institute at Angeles University Foundation (CI-AUF) organized the Confucius Institute Day on September 27 at AUF Professional Schools Building to showcase Chinese culture to students.
Exhibits facilitated by CI-AUF scholars focusing on Chinese
culture that showcased calligraphy, dumpling making, martial arts, knots, Peking opera, paper cutting, tea-making ceremony, and virtual reality (VR) Chinese learning experience, were the highlight of the event.
The calligraphy, as well as the oration and speech competitions, were held in the afternoon.
AUF VP for administration Engr. Jose Macapagal Jr., Sapang Palay National High School (SPNHS) principal Dr. Wilma Aquino, San Francisco High School (SFHS) principal Dr. Edna Bañaga, and CI-AUF Directors attended the occasion.
Moreover, teachers and students from Tarlac National
Engr. Jose Macapagal Jr., AUF Vice President for Administration (VPA), stressed the essence of service in leadership during this year's induction ceremonies to encourage young leaders to serve the masses.
“It was different for me because it had been almost two years that [since] there had been no face-to-face classes. It was like I’ve learned more during the face-to-face than what I’ve actually learned from the modular learning,” an SHS learner remarked.
In addition, some learners raised the possibility of utilizing
On October 13, VPA shared his inspirational message at AUF Sports and Cultural Center for Angelenean student leaders.
"Leadership is about service. We have to serve and not to be served," VPA remarked.
"Make a difference in your respective organization. Walk your talk," added VPA.
Moreover, VPA emphasized the
an internet connection and gadgets to carry out the learning setup as their concern, for they believe that it may add up to the expenses of the students.
Aside from the previous classroom shortages, Typhoon Karding affected 165 schools in the country, wherein the total repair cost PHP 1.691 billion.
“Talagang mahirap nang
power leadership holds to reveal what student leaders can do to make a world difference.
“Leadership is about growing more leaders. Learn to empower leadership in your own organization,” VPA said.
Meanwhile, Mx. Joshua Renz Mangalino, the University Student Council President, highlighted leading by example, humility, and
resolbahin ‘yung pagdating sa classroom shortage, kasi bukod sa ating backlogs, perennial problem na po ‘yung ating classroom shortage, dahil taun-taon, dumadami rin ‘yung ating enrollees, at taun-taon may kalamidad na dumadaan sa ating bansa [Resolving classroom shortages will be difficult, as aside from
High School (TNHS), SPNHS, SFHS, Rafael L. Lazatin Memorial High School (RLLMHS), and Don Gonzales National High School (DGNHS) participated in the event.
CI Day intended to activate and fuel student interest in learning Chinese culture and language by providing experience through activities and hosting competitions.
being accountable and appreciative as good leadership practices.
The university's induction ceremonies highlighted the commitment of student leaders to their responsibilities and the start of their leadership for the academic year.
Moreover, the said event marked the first in-person induction ceremonies of the university since the pandemic.
our backlogs, classroom shortages are already perennial problems since the number of enrollees increases and calamities passes by the country yearly],” Michael Poa, DepEd Spokesperson, emphasized during the announcement of the consideration of Blended Learning for schools with lacking classrooms. lacking class
The inflation rate in the Philippines struck up anew under the new administration.
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported that the headline inflation rate increased to 6.9 percent in September 2022, hitting its highest and fastest rate in four years, primarily due to rising food prices.
Electricity, gas and other fuels, and the operation of personal transport equipment remained the top causes of inflation in September 2022, contributing a total of 2.0 percentage points (PPT).
PSA head and national statistician undersecretary Dennis Mapa said at a press conference that headline inflation last October was more than the 6.3 percent rate in August 2022 and the 4.2 percent consumer price index (CPI) in September 2021.
Mapa stated that the risks of higher prices for goods and services remain throughout the year due to the effects of Super Typhoon Karding, which destroyed agricultural products, the approved fare hike in public transportation, the effect of peso
depreciation on pump prices, which has a spillover effect on food and transportation costs, and the expected higher demand during the 'ber' months.
Meanwhile, Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) chief economist Michael Ricafort said the inflation has steadily increased since March 2022, blaming the Russia-Ukraine war that began in February, which also increased global oil prices and other global commodities earlier this year.
The central bank was expected to raise rates again before the year ends.
The Philippine Social Security System (SSS) announced that two programs are open for financial assistance to members and pensioners from areas hit by Karding.
SSS President and CEO Michael Regino said the programs consist of the Calamity Loan Assistance program (CLAP) for
members and the three-month advance pension for SSS and Employees’ Compensation (EC) pensioners.
“In response to the devastation brought about by Super Typhoon Karding, we will offer these two programs in the areas to be declared under a state of calamity by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management
Council (NDRRMC),” Regino stated. The institution released the guidelines for the programs on its website.
SSS will only facilitate online applications at the My.SSS Portal of the SSS website (www.sss.gov. ph) under the loans section of the e-services tab
The programs were expected to run until January 6.
The Philippines topped the updated World Risk Index (WRI) this 2022 as the most disaster-prone country among 193 nations.
WRI determines each nation’s risk of calamity and its capacity to respond, reduce the impact, and adapt accordingly; it also assesses the exposure and vulnerability of a community from over 100 indicators in its updated framework.
In the report, the country ranked first with an index score of 46.82 and
exposure of 39.99, the latter score ranking fourth among all the listed nations.
The Philippines earned a score of 54.81 for the aspect of vulnerability, 51.35 for susceptibility, 57.81 for lack of coping capacities, and 55.48 for lack of adaptive capacities.
The first five categories are classified within the maximum range as “very high.” The lack of adaptive capacities fits within the second-tothe-last category of “high,”
National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC)
spokesperson and assistant secretary Raffy Alejandro told the public that the council “took note of the result” and that improvement is included in the goals of its council.
India and Indonesia followed the Philippines in the WRI score ranking, while Colombia, Mexico, Myanmar, Mozambique, China, Bangladesh, and Pakistan completed the top 10 most disaster-prone countries of the year.
WRI increased its indicators from 27 to 100, focusing on digitalization and how it influenced disaster preparedness through “knowledge acquisition, information dissemination, communication, and control.”
The report showed that unequal access to information and communication technologies might cause a more significant divide among the marginalized sectors, especially in disaster response.
Disinformation were also cited as a risk influencing disaster management.
Democracy has paved the way for journalists to express their sentiments regarding the status quo, including factual information probing into different facets of socio-political and economic issues that are significantly affecting the masses. Moreover, they are able to live as vanguards of truth as they expose the government’s incompetence and corrupt practices. Their obligation to provide the public with the truth encouraged them to paramount their duties as journalists above all else. However, with that too great of a responsibility, their safety tends to become compromised, especially in the face of a truth-fearing administration ready to shut down and disenfranchise those in the opposition
Despite the significant role of journalists, their credibility to serve the masses has always been put into question, especially in the recent administration. As reported by Conde, there have been 197 reported cases of journalists’ death since the restoration of
democracy in the country, highlighting the prosecution of the profession and individuals involved. These cases concerning the press are growing on a larger scale across the country, threatening the safety of journalists. In line with this, the plight of Percival “Percy Lapid” Mabasa, a broadcaster, and journalist, made headlines in the nation as the tragic incident is perceived as another attack to press freedom.
Lapid had always been an ardent government critic and his commentary program, Lapid Fire, revealed the abuses and irregularities of the government, specifically of the Duterte administration up to the present Marcos administration. His stinging comments, however, were not limited to his broadcast program. His active involvement in the mosquito press kept the fire burning for critics susceptible to violence and abuse mainly because of their professions.
The 30th of September served as his last broadcast, where he probed into the dangers of red-tagging before he faced his gruesome death after he had been ambushed on
the night of the 3rd of October, 2022, in a subdivision at Las Pinas on his way home, as confessed by gunman Joel Escorial.
Despite the case being under probe, the Philippine National Police (PNP) claimed they solved his death as they had already identified the suspects. This ill-fated instance of Lapid is a paradigm that is one of the worst situations a journalist in the country can end up in. Moreover, several groups have condemned the assassination of Lapid and are calling for justice. His death in itself is already a grave attack on press freedom as they have attempted to muzzle the voices of journalists in exposing the greater truth that lies beyond the statements released. Media censorship and violence against journalists have prominently stood as threats to press freedom as they are restricting the free flow of providing the public their rightful access to information. These fearmongering tactics are being used to discredit journalists and their profession, narrowing down their audiences to water down the leverage they have over public opinion.
One death is far too many. Events like these should urge the public to underscore the value of promoting and fighting for press freedom and serve as a wake-up call to those who are straying away from politics and those unwilling to take a stand against the oppressive structures we see today.
As the people join in his family and friends in grieving, never will they let his case slide. Never will the people let his death get buried, along with hundreds of unspoken truths. His legacy should always be heard, along with the cries of those undaunted by the power suppressing their voices.
Percival “Percy Lapid” Mabasa, your efforts will always be remembered as truthbearers brave through the spaces cluttered with immense quantities of disinformation, baseless rumors, and accusations against journalists. As this nation continuously fight against those taking away the rights to a free press, may it impart to people from you the message that one must never fear the deliverance of truth.
This is what the Department of Education (DepEd) has been telling the Filipinos when they released the DepEd Order No. 042, series of 2022. Many teachers reacted to this kind of policy wherein communication outside classroom hours and even mutual social media following are prohibited.
According to the office, they have been receiving sexual abuse-related complains. To them, implementing this policy is the best thing that they can do since they saw how text messages and exchange of online conversation become tools in demonizing the image of the teachers.
The instant DepEd Secretary and Vice President Sara Duterte said that there should be a line between the teacher and the learner – and friendly relationship to students outside the school is something that they should prohibited; because according to VP Duterte, there is a biasness when you are friends with someone. More so, her usual concerned heart bothered her when she remembered the stabbing incident of a student and a teacher because they are too close.
Representative France Castro question such decision. She said
that if DepEd continuously insists on gagging their staffs and removing their access to organize, to have free speech and expression, and to be able to voice out their grievances, what else is left to their workers?
In a press conference, DepEd Spokesperson Atty. Michael T. Poa defended the office, saying that the said DepEd order is just a reiteration of the Code of Conduct of Civil Servants and the professionalism stated in RA 6713 which gives the ethical standards of civil servants – including the teachers – with the intention to make DepEd professional. Poa also added that teachers should act professionally and uphold the honor of DepEd. Nonetheless, Poa, himself, said that this is not new because this is already in civil service rules. Also, according to him, they don’t want the relationship of the students and the teacher to become personal –because to him, that is something that is not natural because there should be a line.
Seeing these perspectives is already giving us the hint that these two officials are not connected to the office that they are into. They are too far from the reality of what really teaching in a classroom is. The mere fact that they are gate keeping the teachers as instruction robots and insisting that their roles are only in
What actually makes someone eligible to be appointed to a position? Is it their reputation, fame, or wealth? Everything is namable. When choosing their candidates, each person uses a unique set of eyes. But why must it be someone who is unfit or unworthy?
Everyone’s attention and opinions have been divided by the recent news of the appointment of former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Camilo Cascolan as the new secretary of the Department
the four sides of the classroom are already signs that they are disconnected. Teachers are not only teachers in the classroom – every second of their lives, they are also teachers. Their paperworks are the great evidence that their job doesn’t end in the classroom. If putting border lines between teachers, their job and their personal life has been the goal of the office, why does the department is not doing their tasks to lessen the loads of the teachers, then? Why did this order become such priority than the biggest battle of the teachers in the department? They have been calling out the office to help them relieve the jampacked paperworks, and yet, they are still at it. Furthermore, the fact that the spokesperson said that having a personal relationship with the student is not natural, if you’re really in the field, you know that this is statement is off. Teachers, whether they like it or not, need to intervene with the personal life of the students. Example, when a student has been absent for so long, there should be an intervention from teachers by asking the students personally or even going to their house – the home visitation. In fact, this has been part of the culture of the department, specifically the DepEd Order 145, series of 2009, where all teachers should conduct home visitation of all their students in their classes – in other words: Project REACH. All these arguments are speaking one thing: it really
sides since, for the medical professional, it can often cause career misalignment with the degree they choose for their tertiary education in addition to being alone in a new setting.
takes one to be one. No one could ever relate to the demands of teachers other than teachers as well. They have been sitting non-education-related key officials in the department. This is resulting to negligence of the battle cry of these educators inside the classroom. If an official just experienced being a teacher inside the classroom, you know where to focus – you will know better. However, it seems that the picture right now is not what we expected.
With these kinds of demands to teachers, their job is not tough than the expected. The “role model” image of a teacher is overly used and even used it against them – to chain themselves to be the torch bearer of a good image that the official themselves cannot carry.
Now, another reiteration of policy happened, and teachers now have tighter roles. While we are fighting against these abusers, does removing the outside-school-hour duties of the teacher can make a big impact on the case? Does it really help us to catch these evils and we can create a safer place to the students? Well, if we are going to base it with the present data, sexual abuse also happens inside the school – in fact, it could happen anywhere. How about those instances?
May we be constantly reminded that while we remove the communication of the teacher to the student outside the school, we are also removing
make will significantly affect not just one person but many people and their families.
the chances of the teachers to holistically help the students. If you are just a teacher, you know that the dilemma of the students itself is already personal. I can’t imagine myself sharing my problem in our group chat just because I cannot have personal communication with my teacher who happens to be the person who understands me the most.
Right now, we are focusing too much on DepEd Order 49’s gray area. However, we should consistently call to these officials to solve existing problems of the teachers themselves that could really help the learning of the students – conducive classroom, enough school materials, teachers’ salary, and the fight for #LigtasNaBalikEskwela for everyone. May the portion of their energy would be used to attain the aforementioned.
May the day come that the teachers would just enjoy the passion that they have accepted to do. May the future policies of the department benefit the teachers more than putting them in a situation where they should sacrifice in order to comply.
of Health (DOH). Meanwhile, as a Biology student myself and a future medical professional, I stand against this insolence.
In the Philippines, one must dedicate about 20 years of their life to becoming a licensed physician. This isn’t comparable to the experiences of a former PNP chief, especially given that he has no training in medicine or health.
As a result, medical professionals don’t make enough money to support their families and their way of life. They may travel abroad for work or suffer from brain drain as a result of this. I regard this as a disadvantage for both
The issue of cronyism also enters the picture; if you look at Marcos’ cabinet secretaries, you’ll notice that the majority, if not all of them, lack the information they were supposed to receive as soon as they were nominated for their positions. Who will you select, for instance, when you’re picking someone to represent your class in a competition? Isn’t it true that you’ll pick someone who is knowledgeable and skilled in that field?
Why can’t we use it in its most complicated forms since that is what we do in its most basic? Where every choice we
This is also the cause of the Philippines’ less progressive health system compared to other nations.
These are clearly demonstrated by the COVID-19 vaccinations, which we continue to import from other nations despite having the technology to do so. Imagine if the Philippines were able to produce their own vaccinations. Not only would this improve our economy, but it would also help Filipino pharmaceutical firms succeed.
Another illustration would be the lack of adequate and cutting-edge medical equipment in the majority of public hospitals. This makes it necessary for families to relocate to private hospitals
or hospitals in foreign nations, which are significantly more expensive than what the majority of Filipino families, particularly those living in poverty, can afford.
Is it really worthwhile to nominate an ex-PNP chief as the new DOH secretary, given all the repercussions listed above? Or is it only a component of the second Marcos-era corruption wave in our nation?
The lofty dream of P20 per kilo of rice remains a dream for a country whose leader is slack and sleeping. It is a promise easier said than done by someone who has no track record in agriculture and has not even authored laws beneficial to farmers.
In his well-staged vlogs and speeches, Pres. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. puts up the bravado of a hero wanting to make the Philippines the leading agricultural resource hub in the region and in the world as he now took the portfolio as secretary of agriculture. Marcos Jr. plots his so-called “agriculture value chain” composed of research development, loans and inputs, production, postharvest processing, and distribution that he longs to strengthen in the achievement of zero hunger, affordable food prices for the Filipino mass, ensure food security and promote the industry of farming.
Quite ambitious to hear, but Filipinos do not need words in times of crisis, they seek swift action from the government. He only gives solutions on the stem but not on the roots. Can one be a hero of the food heroes–farmers and fisherfolks alike–if that hero chooses to turn a blind eye to the country’s economic depression? The farmers wail for help but no one comes to their rescue. From podiums at debates to realities needing response today, Marcos Jr. is still nowhere to be found.
The recent super typhoon Karding that struck the country left 3.1 billion pesos worth of loss and damage in the agricultural sector. Traders took advantage of this onslaught by buying unhusked palay from farmers for as low as P13 per kilo, which is less than the average farmgate price. Just last October 13, it was reported that rice imports in the country hit 3 million metric tons which are higher than the recorded yearly imports since
2019. Local rice farmers have lost P206 billion since the Rice Liberalization Law was signed three years ago based on the study done by the Anakpawis Partylist. Pockets of Filipinos continue to shrink as inflation skyrocketed to a 14-year high 7.7% in October, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA).
Just when we thought that the “build, build, build” of Duterte is a tiring song to hear, there is a more deafening rendition of incompetency, a Marcosian legacy of “party, party, party” for the first 100 days of his reign. The president was absent because he was present in numerous flamboyant social gatherings even when the Philippines was hanging by a thread. Knowing Marcoses’ history, such an untouchable family would rather flaunt their wealth and power. No empathy nor sense of urgency was felt by them.
The unchanging status quo and neglect in the agrarian sector have led to the exploitation of farmers–leaving them overworked, underpaid, and underfunded
as they lie at the foot of landlords and middlemen with hands bondaged to debt. What is havoc for the land tillers is a golden grain of opportunity for capitalists.
The horrific tale of the infamous ‘Tinang 83’ on June 9 was no different to the everyday plight of the tillers. What was a supposedly peaceful land cultivation activity in Hacienda Tinang in Concepcion, Tarlac, has turned into a nightmare when Philippine National Police (PNP) unlawfully massarrested 83 people consisting of farmers who were rightful owners, other land reform advocates, activists, journalists, and studentleaders alike. No explanations were even listened to by the detainees, it only took one easy assumption of evil motive before they were thrown into detention.
The lack of prioritization in our current Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has hindered our country’s farmers from reclaiming their rightful keep of farmland, reeling them into a subjective dispute. Not even the
existing Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) was progressed to be reconstituted. Instead, Marcos Jr. vaguely introduced his apparent plans for the Masagana 150 and 200 Programs that will improve food self-sufficiency and hopefully the plummeting price rate of rice. Unfortunately, the aforementioned plan has not yet been fully drawn out as to how it will work for our farmers–it is just a blueprint now.
PAGHILOMThrough years and years of exposure to various calamities, the Philippines, as did other nations subjected to adversities brought upon by the everchanging world, nurtured positivity to the precipice of disregard–so much that it veered toward a problematic path. In other words, the aspect of positivity was abused and its essence dulled over the course of time.
Positivity lost its uplifting power and instead transformed into a manipulative tendril that has a compact hold over the community. From the perversion of positivity came the adjective that many Filipinos pride themselves on: “resilient.”
Problems call for a
tough mentality. They require determination, they require courage.
It is not wrong to manifest grit and resolve in these conditions, as these are qualities that make up a person who has the motivation to succeed. What appears dangerous, however, is acclimation to trouble.
Peril awaits the man who has grown accustomed to anything and everything, to the point of refusing to prepare despite recognizing approaching threats; it is this quality that makes a person with a mindset of: “I can work everything out after the problem,” entirely vulnerable.
After several decades of facing natural disasters and enduring devastating aftermaths, one would think that Filipinos would not wait for change, but would rather make the change themselves. Nothing happened. Nothing is
happening. Perhaps, nothing is set to happen when a storm approaches and there are always people saying, “Bagyo ka lang, Pilipino kami!”
In this situation, resilience is just another word to describe the lack of a concrete plan and the absence of effective disaster management. It is also the veil that hides apathy. Resilience is not glory. It appears as a bandaid pasted upon a gaping wound. Its sensationalization is akin to rot that spreads and festers like an infection. Romanticizing resilience is tolerating indifference. It breeds dysfunctional leadership, hence we are not getting the right safekeeping and just guidance we deserve. We are at a constant stalemate with struggles by believing that the country could invariably bounce back in the wake of a calamity while those that bore the brunt of distress mourn their massive losses; and in the midst of misfortune, those that enjoy
their privilege sleep tight in their homes.
It is about time to start recalibrating policies aligned with disaster risk reduction management. We have every right to demand accountability from the leaders of the nation.
The narrative of Filipino resilience is a vain attempt at covering up the misery of victims with toxic positivity, and it has taken more than one step too far. Clearly, resilience is passivity in the guise of an appealing word. Stories of resilience are looked upon as inspirational, but they end there before the entirety of the aftermath is taken into account, embellished with motivational quotes–without the audience ever really knowing how tedious and agonizing recovery is, especially when lives were lost.
Resilience is sucked dry as a dazzling bead of decoration adorning the spiel of stereotypical Filipino characteristics. It has already
reached its limit. It stands as nothing more than an empty word to comfort ourselves when we have no vice to hold on to and the higher spots in the societal hierarchy have completely shut the doors for them to even see the tragedy. The over-adoration of the word resilience
put the Philippines in an even direr slot for prosperity. On the road to development, resilience is just the endurance of terrible conditions. Is resilient the adjective we would want to be remembered by?
Reiterating Marcos Jr.’s campaign narrative “samasamang babangon muli”, leaves us wondering why most Filipinos are still left on the grave. Perhaps, the real weed of tilled soil has yet to be taken out.
who’s next?
It’s as if journalists and members of the media sign up for a lotto draw, awaiting their misfortune. This is the current state of press freedom in the Philippines: press killings.
Four months into another Marcos administration
and three brutal deaths of journalists were already witnessed. In a broad daylight in June, broadcaster Federico ‘Ding’ Gempesaw was shot and killed in front of his home. September came and another broadcaster–Renato Blanco–was slain, fatally stabbed to death. Only weeks in between, on an evening in October when veteran broadcaster Percy Lapid was gunned down inside his vehicle.
Evidently, the fundamental right to seek and disseminate the truth through a free press is still under attack, and the change we hoped for from the previous Duterte administration was punctually let down by Marcos Jr.’s first term.
Why should we call for justice? Press freedom is
The government has been actively fighting against drug use since Duterte’s administration. I’d say that it was a failure, even though they have caught and killed countless people for it. Quantity doesn’t equal quality, after all. Injustice and corruption also play a huge role in these cases, especially against ordinary people. Established people in power could easily manipulate the system by using money. We can only hope to change it by voicing our views and perceptions loudly until someone in power notices and does something about it. This time, someone with power has been caught red-handed for the whole country to see.
On October 13, 2022, Jesus Remulla, the DOJ chief of the
the cornerstone of all democratic societies. It protects human rights and fundamental freedoms. A free press is essential to hold elected leaders accountable. However, when elected leaders in this so-called democracy, who should be the utmost defenders of press freedom, take overt efforts to stifle sources that publish unfavorable stories and bolster those that favorably report them, we demand justice. We demand justice when death continues to be the price of press freedom. Following years of attacks on the press by the nation’s former president Duterte, journalists in the Philippines operate in an environment of hostility and violence. Urging incumbent president Marcos Jr. to restore freedom of the press and secure the safety of journalists in the country
would be urging a tiger to change its stripes–unimaginable. Recalling, even before he assumed the presidency, Marcos Jr. had refused to join presidential debates and interviews that would raise real issues and pose tough questions.
We shall never forget that once, a Marcos was able to silence and control the press for two decades. A son cannot inherit the sins of his father, yes, but he sure can be different. Surely enough, Marcos Jr. has been different from his father; he has gotten creative. Instead of silencing the truth, he has been filling the Filipinos with echoes of lies, deceit, and misinformation. But this does not make his hands any cleaner. He is as much as accountable for the recent deaths of journalists and media workers as the ordered murderers.
“The presumptive president-elect of the Philippines as a result of the May 9 election must ensure the protection of media freedom in the country. Media freedom is important to fulfill the right to information for the public, which is one of the keys to democracy,” said the May 20 joint statement from seven media groups in Southeast Asia. As a response, Marcos Jr. swept three instant deaths of journalists under his rug. Journalists and media workers deserve at least an assurance from Marcos Jr. himself that he will ensure press freedom and their safety while delivering democracy. Press freedom, not press killings. His denied army of trolls is already a task big enough for democracy to thrive. Must there also be an army of murderers that Philippine democracy shall face?
Philippines, confirmed the arrest of his son, Juanito Remulla III, which caused a public outcry, calling out the conflict of interest of said DOJ chief with the crimes of his son. It should have felt humiliating for the DOJ chief, but unfortunately, that is not what he felt. He claimed not to intervene in his son’s case and that it will go straight to court. Furthermore, he also claimed that he is distancing himself from his son and the topic itself. It was an excellent claim to avoid the pressure from the public, but the people did not relent. Consequently, they still called for him to resign because of his loss of moral authority, including the “failed” investigation of Percy Lapid’s death. In response, he said that it would not happen and that it was up to President Bongbong Marcos to decide.
Bong Revilla also butted in and voiced out that the son’s sins are not the father’s sins. It was a relevant but questionable take if you consider our President’s past issues. Jesus Remulla’s take three years ago, where he claimed that people involved with drugs should receive the death penalty, was also brought up by netizens. I think people’s minds change for the better as time passes, but this is blatant hypocrisy simply because how they tackle drug abuse never changed. The PDEA claimed that there would be no special treatment. Still, Juanito invoked his right to avoid self-incrimination by denying drug tests. His lawyer stepped in immediately, saying that the drug test would not be useful for the current charges. People were furious, as they should be. Kian Delos Santos and the other people that died during the drug war did not receive the same treatment as Juanito Remulla. Was it
the difference in power or the connections available to the person? This case proves a vast gap between ordinary people and those in power.
Big fishes like Juanito Remulla have connections and money to access loopholes or receive special treatment quickly. It’s astounding how they can control people using their status and riches. The rich and powerful have exponentially higher rights and privileges than the poor and average people. One week after Juanito’s arrest, Wilkins Villanueva, the head of PDEA who arrested Juanito, was formally replaced by President Bongbong Marcos for no apparent reason. Why would the President suddenly replace the person that arrested the big fish? That’s up for the people to think about. As of October 27, 2022, the case has been passed to Acting Presiding Judge Ricardo Moldez II from Las Piñas. The case hasn’t
reached its resolution as of writing this column. Keep yourself informed and updated if you’re interested in how the case will turn out. Power and status will help you in times of need. However, they also create an imbalance and discord in society if improperly used.
Corruption results from evil deeds and privilege, which is truly evident in our country. As everyday citizens, we can only look at these actions and voice our opinions. Still, with enough people, we can take down corrupt individuals and officials. There is always a bigger fish; we can attract it by being as vocal and loud as possible. Let us strive to become a righteous and fair society for the future of our country.
The majority has always been the more considered part of the whole. From the small decisions made in classrooms to the way we choose the leaders of our nation— who is heard? Four out of five. Ever thought of the lone one? Rarely do we dive into the perspectives of the lone one, as we keep them ignored and usually unheard. On rare occasion, let us spotlight on that lone one in the context of Kapampangan film, music, and script.
Indeed, Kapampangans are continuously exploring a variety of entertainment that they can enjoy with their loved ones which include watching films and listening to music. A study found that Filipinos spend most of their time consuming content from social media platforms, while 68.72% of the study’s respondents are moviegoers. Hence, films play an important role in what kind of content is consumed by people. However, according to a 2021 article, the occurrence
of the COVID-19 pandemic brought a distressing production of films where many movie theaters even had to shut down due to lockdown. What makes the situation worse is that way back before the pandemic, the Philippine film industry, particularly Indie films, had seen a constant and drastic dip in viewership given that during the pandemic, Filipinos were introduced to more international content that they can easily access online. Despite that, Filipinos, especially Kapampangans must be aware that there are tons of local films that they can watch online with the aim of making them appreciate their own culture. Some exemplary Kapampangan films include “Ari: My Life with a King,” which tackles the story of a young man and his journey of discovering the Kapampangan language through the help of a local poet. The said film received the Best World Film award during the Harlem International Film Festival in 2015 in New York. Additionally, “ARIA,” Kapampangan film, won the Best Picture at the Lake City International Film Festival in New Delhi in 2020.
On the other hand, despite having 71.47% of Filipinos listening to the radio and 33.09% surfing the internet, making Filipinos prone to diverse content across the world, only
a few can sing along to the hymns of Kapampangans Pampanga can match up with this diversity since it has a rich music wherein every reason has a rich soundtrack. Kapampangan Halloween has gosu, Christmas has pastorela, Lent has pasyun, and river festivals which take place in May and June have kuraldal and batalla. Furthermore, even before the popularity of West End and Broadway, there was the presence of musicals on stage in the form of zarzuelas in which the first of its kind in any Philippine vernacular was “Ing Managpe,” notably written by a Kapampangan, Mariano Proceso Pabalan Byron of Bacolor. Kapampangans also have numerous pop songs that you might wanna add to your playlists. One of which is “Kampay” written by Daniel V. Dato, which tells the story of a young man’s love for a woman who only sees him as her friend. More of these pop songs, along with “Kampay,” were produced from the most recent KPOP Song Festival in 2018– no, it’s not Korean Pop. It is Kapampangan Pop!– founded by Mr. Gildo “Boron” Garcia, the Director of AUF Center for Culture and the Arts, in an effort to bring Kapampangan songs back to mainstream music.
Baybayin, the Philippine script, saw a rise in popularity in recent years. But the province also has its own indigenous script called Kulitan, otherwise known as Súlat Kapampángan. A 2019 journal article believed that Kulitan’s existence is only known by a handful of
Kapampangans, and even fewer are knowledgeable about writing the script. Súlat Kapampángan is alphasyllabary in nature, where consonants come with fixed vowel sounds that only change when used with diacritical marks. History has it that Kulitan was a script used in the writing of anti-Spanish propaganda in the 1896 Philippine Revolution. Today, the native script is seen in some establishments in the city, such as the Newpoint Mall and Clark International Airport. Some local artists brought the script in apparel printing and even permanently on their skins. Basic Kulitan classes are also held regularly by The Sinupan Singsing: Center for Kapampangan Cultural Heritage. Although viewed to be relatively small in number, the hearts of the advocates are big enough to make the Kapampangan culture thrive further.
Clearly, those who belong to the one out of five carry equally significant stories that deserve their own recognition in society. This could be our signal to start putting equal opportunities to both the smaller and the bigger portions of the whole and to start considering members by their quality more than their quantity. Though alone in a pool of five or even a hundred people— they are not mere commodities to complete the whole, the casted shadows of those hit by the spotlight, nor the gray areas in colored charts.
Illuminating lights envelop the streets of Pampanga not only to conform to holiday cheer, but as a facet of modern establishments. Similarly, the province and its people’s beauty are prominent in broad daylight. With such palpable brilliance, no one would have fathomed that the bright domain still grew to be the site of heinous kidnapping cases.
Nearly trumping the shackles of the pandemic, heading and staying out is favored by the majority of today’s youth. Regrettably, night-outs are
Life360
coupled with risks of falling victim to all kinds of inconveniences, especially man-made dangers, courtesy of unfeeling predators and perpetrators. While their presence evokes fear and confinement, technology has furthered enough to offer combative measures that allow anyone of age, with a working smartphone and sufficient signal, a sense of ease and security anytime, anywhere.
Here are four (4) notable mobile safety apps which are currently available for download and use in the Philippines:
Brought to prominence by the renowned social media application TikTok, Life360 promotes safety among family and trusted peers, whether one is a homebody or a socialite. After setting up your profile and creating customized private “circles,” this software serves as a locator, given that the users’ location services are enabled. Everyone in the circle is notified of real-time updates on others’ routes and whereabouts, even their driving speed and phone battery percentages. In addition, Life360 contains an emergency SOS button feature that alerts all connected users of the activator’s precise location. This free mobile app is available for both iOS and Android users.
bSafe
bSafe is another safety application that lets users generate their own network of “guardians.” According to its developer, Bipper USA, Inc., its objective is to minimize sexual harassment cases and build a more comfortable environment for the community. Evidently enough, the software offers a variety of creatively efficient features such as a “Follow Me” option which invites family members and friends to monitor one’s trips, as well as an SOS alarm that blares emergency alerts. Moreover, a distinct and remarkable component of this app is its “Fake Call” feature which is programmed to aid the user in escaping uneasy instances. This free mobile app is available for both iOS and Android users.
WalkSafe+
Another GPS tracker-type safety application is WalkSafe+. Developed by Chaperhome Ltd., WalkSafe+ also allows trusted friends to observe the user’s travels. A unique feature of this program is its live map tailored from actual police crime statistics in the area. The WalkSafe Map highlights and alerts the user of local crime hotspots and reroutes towards a safer trail. There is also an SOS button for manual calls for further assistance. It also brings you the “HomeSafe” feature which allows the user to set an estimated time of arrival at home and automatically notifies one’s network of friends if arrival does not fall within the stipulated time frame. This free mobile app is available for both iOS and Android users.
Unique from the above-mentioned locator safety applications, Red Panic Button is simply, in the most obvious sense, a red panic button. Expounding further, this software developed by Ultimate Communication Software Ltd., enables users to reach their contacts via SMS, e-mail, Facebook, and Twitter during any emergency situation. With a single click, alerts are sent to the user’s phonebook and mail contacts, along with a real-time panic post or tweet. Red Panic Button is not only handy against potential harassers, but also during natural disasters and other fortuitous occurrences. This free mobile app is available for both iOS and Android users.
Life in general, be it within or beyond our homes, is bound to render us some menacing incidents. However, although danger tends to lurk among alleyways and sidewalks, this generation is not one to lie low and admit defeat. Instead, it is with a progressive mindset and earnest desire
to build a more secure dwelling place that technology is manipulated to dispel our worries. These virtual bodyguards may not be the key to guaranteeing eternal safety, but they are definite proof that such a vision is attainable.
If visiting Pampanga is included in your bucket list this year, the savory Sisig will always be in the picture! There may be different variants of how Sisig is cooked nowadays, but known for its flavourful taste, one of the most distinct characteristics of Kapampangan Sisig is the use of a pig’s head, particularly the ears.
However, they say that there is more than what meets the eye. Kapampangan culture is not solely
revolving around good foods, but to ask about festivals and fiestas? This is when most Kapampangans are well-bonded together! These vibrant celebrations say a lot about the place as they mirror its exceptional customs and traditions while commemorating the richness of Pampanga!
To enjoy your stay in Pampanga, tourist spots are of great interest to guests who come to the province. Visiting the lands of Clark Freeport Zone will be a memorable experience as this offers various activities to
relish. Additionally, museums like Museo de Bacolor and Museo Ning Angeles will allow you to learn more about Pampanga’s history and identity. With this in mind, you can still enjoy the ambiance of Pampanga even in the comfort of your home because Kapampangan vloggers are only one click away, giving us an excellent encounter in uncovering life in the province of grubs.
Mekeni, Tuki ka, Malaus Ka Pampanga with our Kapampangan content creators: Harmony Santos and Nicole Jeanvic Ramos.
Harmony Santos is a 20-year-old Kapampangan vlogger from Angeles City, Pampanga who started making content in 2018. The actions vloggers take in service to their heritage were touched on in the interview when she was asked about the importance of Kapampangan culture to their channels and roles as vloggers. Harmony elaborated: “It is important in the sense that I would want to share my heritage with other people, to make others know more about what the Kapampangan culture is. And also, how beautiful and diverse the different subcultures of the Philippines are.”
In exploring more about the significant things she impacted in promoting the Kapampangan culture as a vlogger, she indicated that through producing videos about her daily life as a Kapampangan, her audiences from other countries get to have knowledge about Kapampangan culture, especially how Kapampangan food fascinated her audience’s taste while growing her channel. Furthermore, aside from food and traditions, what she explored to an extent in the local culture is the Kulitan or known as the Súlat Kapampángan. The fact that we have our own form of writing was something she wanted to impart and give rise to her viewers since Kulitan is not being taught in mainstream institutions.
“People create content for social media to share their experiences either because they are paid to do so or because they love doing it. There is no definitive reason why an individual creates content,” she quipped as she was asked about the reason why she chose to create content about her local heritage. To her, even though Kapampangan culture is continually growing, it is perceivably the role of a local content creator to be most aware of the changes. It is not only about you being responsible for their entertainment, but also the substantial information you will disseminate to your viewers in fostering the culture.
One to also put on the list is Nicole Jeanvic Ramos, a Kapampangan digital content creator who also makes videos about her daily Kapampangan lifestyle.
We had the chance to ask her if vloggers or other content creators are indebted to their culture to promote to their audiences. Nicole’s response was on the relevance of promoting culture and how it should be seen as vital when being an online influencer: “Social media caters to everyone around the globe and I believe as a content creator, it is crucial to take responsibility for our culture as this may help international audiences recognize and be informed on our lifestyle and traditions. This also serves as an awareness about various cultures every country has.”
She specified that the premier way of advocating the Kapampangan culture is through empowering first the Kapampangans. To her, the essence of influencing your fellow folks is the first collective step in appreciating the local culture. Thus, in her vlogs, she stipulated different places to visit in Pampanga, as well as those that were not yet fond to many. Additionally, Nicole also gave thought to her impact as a vlogger and how that enabled her to influence her local audiences. “I think being a content creator gives me the strength to impact my viewers. My heritage as a Kapampangan is one aspect that I will cater to. It is very important to preserve the history and culture of the Kapampangans,” she said.
The local content creator has mentioned that her impact as a vlogger had been to bring attention and cater to her Kapampangan audience in pursuit of helping them to document their own experiences as well. “I know there are still a lot of people out there that are scared to do things they really love because they think more about how others see them. Like me, I was once scared too but I chose to be brave, Kapampangans are known to be positive and risk-taking. Life is short to worry about other people, [and] it is now the time to care more and see yourself.”
Culture can mean different things to many people even when it provides itself with an objective view. But to many, we each have our own responses towards our heritage and how that may connect with others in our community or even the rest of the world. With the accessibility of platforms and content creation, everyone is met with the
opportunity to put themselves out there and reach countless people from miles away. From the insights of these content creators, we can learn about how promoting culture and even challenging tradition is not just a responsibility, but an act of initiative. The chance to speak about the shared thoughts and practices of our people is a step to take that could
not only benefit ourselves but also people outside who can learn a lot about what we value as people. So, we thank the creators who got the chance to be interviewed about their experiences and opinions on Kapampangan culture. Feel free to also check their channels out, and do not be afraid to put the word out there, Angeleneans!
No other words like that would have given frail children like me the immense horror when the calendar was ripped for the month of April. Contrary to what many people believe is the month of reflection and spiritual renewal, the period of Lent steered my juvenile life into a somber one. The streets were empty as homes become the pilgrimage of the families with prayers that might take effect until God knows when. The special television programs left a bad taste in my mouth, as they showed old movies and anthologies that bored the heck out of me. The clocks broke as we relentlessly recited prayers for the Holy Rosary, with my sister holding her laughter as my grandmother unconsciously mistook a few words from the chants.
Lo, the striking heat from the summer sun antagonized my alreadydefeated stance as we unwillingly waited for the bloody march of the flagellants– known to locals as magdarame– to come near us. Although fear and disgust were the emotions that can be seen flaunted in the streets, there seems to be an indomitable force that keeps the locals flocking to these self-proclaimed “martyrs”-- a perfect definition for the drunkards, thieves, bystanders, and other men in my barangay who participated in this century-long tradition. Recognizing these specific
people through the things that they have done in the remaining days of the year, I gradually realized that our religious traditions, especially the local ones, have long been stuck as merely a performative gesture, not an avenue of personal development.
Culture and traditions have long been seen as the identity of a certain domain or community. For Kapampangans, these elements were realized due to their rich history both before and after the influence of our colonizers had flourished. As these practices have penetrated the identity of the locals, they have found themselves subjected to it. Without any shadow of a doubt, they have regarded them as incorrigible against misinterpretations or any sense of falseness.
Without any noticeable movement to challenge these local traditions, we are left with a flamboyant showcase of these practices with little or no regard for their true messages. In a disappointing scheme of events, the reality of celebrating festivals and traditions throughout the province of Pampanga has left only a remnant of awareness for the individuals who became the reason for the existence of these causes.
Mabalacat City’s Caragan Festival, as the first case, is a celebration of the Aeta chieftain named Haring Caragan, who became the rock that established the province’s latest city. Although the festival was established to honor the chieftain’s roots as a
“Magdarame, atiu na la reng magdarame!”
leader of the indigenous Aeta tribe, not much has been done to assure and protect the social welfare of the modern Aeta resettlement in the city, with woes for sustainable housing development from the 300 Sitio Kapuso families hounded the city government, especially during the onslaught of Typhoon Karding last month. In fact, the three weeks of what could have been the period of coordination among the local government units in Mabalacat City turned into a hilarious blaming game among officials and a delay in relief services for our Aeta-Kabalen.
The town of Minalin’s Aguman Sanduk Festival meanwhile became an overnight discussion as it was likened to the cross-dressing incident as part of the pep rally performance of the De La Salle University men’s basketball team, speculating traces of mockery against the members of the LGBTQ+ community. Although the 1931 tradition was nowhere to be likened to the context of the latest incident and was purely established to give thanks to the womenfolk of the barrio after their tireless work in what was coined as the loneliest Yuletide season in the town’s history, such a celebration can still be a victim of misinterpretation, with versions coming outside of Minalin not fully understanding the reason why they dress as their opposite genders, or even making fun of it because they seemingly think that they look ridiculous by wearing one.
Lastly, the flagellation and crucifixion of the penitents specifically in the province’s capital, the City of San Fernando during the Lenten season’s
Good Friday present more personal and spiritual issues that need to be addressed. Even religious authorities have raised their brows towards this yearly practice, as such an extreme and often barbaric way of devotion to Christ has a safer and acceptable alternative: confession and good works. Unfortunately, from an empirical perspective, the level of devotion these magdarame and namamanata do does not translate into a renewed soul. I would see these kinds of people behaving the same way they did even before the tradition starts. It is almost as if they are mocking Christ even further by reenacting His suffering and not likening even a part of His goodness after.
From the agony that I experienced by standing for hours under that scorching summer sun, I only realized years after the reason why people are frowning upon the forthcoming line of bloody marchers, why their eyes are odiously fixated in the hapless state of the penitents, and why the flock of people seems to not care about anything after the brief frenzy: it is because the traditions that we grew up with satisfy only our worldly eyes, not anymore our uninspired hearts.
BY ROSE ANN DELA ROSA
To be a symbol of hope amidst the darkness: this is the dream of the craftsmen behind the Christmas lanterns who bring luminance and sparkle to our city streets– the parol makers
When it comes to the craft, the Kapampangans know it best. Known locally as “parol,” its sophisticated details lit in flashing sequences and shaped in a noticeable star design are sure to uplift the smiles of Filipinos during the festive season. Once the “Ber months” kick in, Pampanga, the Christmas Capital of the Philippines, ensure their bright and colorful parols get the outright recognition it deserves. During mid-December in the province’s capital, City of San Fernando, the towering works of beauty and creativity of parols take center stage with the most-awaited annual competition called the Giant Lantern Festival or “Ligligan Parul.”
Dedication to their work shows their discipline as their sales peak through regular commissions, even if it is not the yuletide season. Not to mention, they distribute these lanterns all over the Philippines and even across the globe, making Kapampangans unique in the lantern-making industry.
Derived from the Spanish word farol, meaning “lantern,” parol traces its roots in the old capital of Pampanga, Bacolor, where Spanish colonizers compelled the townsfolk to hold them in a street procession when electricity was not yet accessible. Townspeople traditionally flock to their local churches at dawn, Misa de Gallo, in honor of the Virgin Mary, “Our Lady of La Naval.”
The tradition of handcrafting parols went back to lantern-making pioneer Francisco Estanislao creating a star-shaped design out of bamboo sticks and papel de Japon (Japanese paper) illuminated with carbide or candle. Until the 1960s, their artistry went from simplicity to intricacy as they employed various materials like polychromatic lights, colored glass windows, batik textile features, and prismatic pinwheels, thus finally leaving the conventional style for good. Today, however, it has become significantly popular with the usage of translucent or stained capiz shells flattened and cut into precision with patterned light bulbs to produce the dancing light effect for adults and children to adorn.
For veteran parol maker Ronald Quiambao, who has been working for 36 years in the industry, parol making became a lifetime vocation, as he wishes to make these lanterns for Christmas for as long as he lives. It gives him joy to be able to teach the youth to continue the rich Kapampangan tradition.
On another perspective, Arnel Flores, five-time champion of the Giant Lantern Festival from San Fernando, hoped to return to the way they were before the COVID-19 pandemic hit the industry. The harrowing horror of the health emergency was a time of recurring financial losses because demands became low.
“Malaki ang epekto ng pandemya sa amin. Walang nagpagawa. Siyempre ‘yung mga trabahador natin kahit kaunti [ay] magbibigay tayo ng pang-ayuda. Kung tutuusin, puro palabas ang budget noong nakaraan. Ngayon, unti-unti na kaming nakakabangon,” he said.
Together with his son, Mark Flores who is now leading the new breed of lantern makers in San Fernando, expresses that it is futile to celebrate the spirit of the holiday without the parols.
While they aim to showcase the unsung Christmas spirit in the upcoming Giant Lantern Festival on December 17, 2022, their newest take on the creation of lanterns, specifically the introduction of waterproof fabric parols, refreshes the old style of parol making. It took them 10 years to perfect the said design built of sturdier material than the Capiz shells and plastic.
Jaira
Camille R. De Mesa (Jaijaijanai)As I carelessly followed the path
The light slowly faded in my sight
While my cold lips fall silent
The shadows started to conceal the light
Falling deeper into darkness
I only felt more loneliness.
As I begin to drown from the sadness in my heart
While counting the days and nights apart
I almost lost sight of the path
But then I saw a sudden glimpse of light
Along with your voice that echoed in my heart
Singing the words, “It’ll be alright.”
At that moment I knew what I had to do
A way to make this growing sadness subdue
To escape the abyss of darkness
To find a way towards a world filled with brightness
To a place where I truly belong
Where I won’t ever feel alone.
Though the twinkle in my heart was but a tiny spark
Your voice was enough for me to start
Although it was different from what I imagined
I slowly raised my arms towards it
Gathering the courage to move forward
Without knowing what awaits beyond.
As long as you are here by my side
I’ll make my glittering hopes resound.
I’ll trace out the path of light together with you
Until our story’s prologue finally comes into view
Even if that day is still far away
We’ll continue to find a way.
Someday, I’m sure it will come true
So I’ll keep running together with you
And when we finally reach the light we seek
A momentous event that is truly unique
Though each of us may differ individually
We’ll be able to unite our feelings eternally.
Just how the universe is made of light
A lot of life shines brightly white
For the light that resides within our hearts
Shall dazzle like a starlight in the endless nights
Though each is a small, fleeting glow
If our hearts connect, our dreams will continue to grow.
Menhera
outspoken, they say; outspoken I am.
your nonsense I shall put at bay; the mess you make I shall array.
won’t let you put me in a jam.
Xyandreiz Lacson (Axl)
I’d never be her because she tried to beat Aphrodite in a battle of beauty.
I’d never be him because he tried to fly
Higher than the sun in a hurry.
And I’d never be them because I’ll never be
Someone who hurts themselves trying; flying until I’m falling. Right?
Asamafuyu
A letter filled with your stain. Emotions are hard to rein. I still patiently wait for you My Eurydice, my rue. Though I know, you already flew.
Lianna Philisa P. Miranda
Never had the adventure; Equipping myself like knights, Wishing I had the picture. Epic tales of tests and bites, Down the drain, all together. Great excuses in bright lights Enter a new bold venture.
Amanisaya
Darkness shrouds the feeble mind, Yet the soul still fights back; And from the cinders, a bright phoenix is born. The winds of fate are calling for you, And let your answer be heard..
:) I am scared, anxious, and worried. I don’t know why. But I believe that no matter what happens, he got me, He got me in all the things I do.
Xyandreiz Lacson (Axl)
I’ve made the mistake of making this my label, And now I don’t define myself as anything else. I used to be defined; I am what I’m able. And for a while I was simply the best. But what do you do, if you’re not anymore? What if ‘trying’ can’t even get you to sail? The thing is if you fail at trying, you just kind of fail.
The conspiration of the universe felt surreal, Like our galaxies didn’t have something to conceal As we trace promises under the constellations. Like the stars, they turned into a supernova of illusion. I’d be happy to create one more nebula of the same horizon.
Maybe this time, we’ll both be in a lifetime with the same dimension..
The world is kind enough to let me meet someone like you. Someone I’m willing to risk for, no matter what I’m going through. It is also cruel enough to make me realize I am not that someone for you. You said you loved me too, but was it even true?
Madaya ka, sapagkat ang akala ko’y tayo’y nasa parehas na pahina.
Ashes were cascading down as we drown Into the abyss, disguising as an embrace. Let the time untie me from breaking down, And using useless masks from my headspace.
In an ebony-colored sky, I sit alone in silence and linger on my thoughts. I stare blankly at the visible wall cracks, resembling the invisible cracks etched in my heart..
I don’t look like Snow White with porcelain skin. I’m not the loveliest like when Cinderella spins. I don’t have the most beautiful voice making birds sing. And I’m not as lovely as the rose you saw Belle holding. I’ll always be Tinkerbell while you have your own Wendy. And I’ll never be that girl who fits the shoes of the one you love truly. After all, our own fairytale was unsightly and clearly wasn’t meant to be. And using useless masks from my headspace.
Asher Michael B. Viray (Weaver of Word)
I’m not sure what tomorrow brings, And even if these eager wings... Will soon take flight but they still tremble, Yet these hopes could never crumble. For a long awaited dawn is near... And after all there’s nothing to fear.
Takot
Normal sa isang mag-aaral ang matakot. Matakot na mag-isa, matakot na sumubok, ngunit sa kabila ng lahat ng ito, pilit pa ring inaabot ang mga pangarap na minsa’y mapag-damot. Minsa’y napapakamot nalang sa ulo, mga katanungan sa aking sarili ay tila walang tigil, kung lahat ba ito ay may pagasang magka-totoo? Sa mundo na puro pang-iinsulto ng mga tao, mga pangako sa sarili ko’y baka ‘di na magka-totoo. Ngunit ano ba ang mas lamang? Ang matagal ko ng inaabot o ang kasinungalingang wala namang mai-aabot? Takot, pero ako ay aabot. Totoo, ito ay mahirap at minsa’y para nang malabo, ngunit ako ay may pangako at pangarap na aking ihaharap sa kinabukasang hinahanap.
And this is how it starts. Remember our every wish, longing, hope, yearning; Finally, it comes with a bearing and to an end. We can finally see each other, and distance will never be a hindrance again. In the place where we lived all these times, laughed, fought, and smiled at each other, in our cherished university.
Ala ku keni nung ali dahil kaya, kaya na memyeng biye kaku kening banwa. Mibayit kung ala ku dyang nanu, ala kung a pag-maragul dyang nanung matiryal pa, makamal ya man o ali. Ing biye a binye’t peparam na kaku ning atyu babo, mahigit ya pa keng mal/makamal a pulseras at gintu. Kareng oras na alang-ala ku, eka
bitsang meko keng siping ku, pepakit mu kanaku nung ninu ka’t nanung agyu mung gawan. Anya dyang nanu ku man yeni, nokarin ku man at nanung atin ku’t ala, keka ku pa mu rin ngan itas ing egana-gana oneng keka la mu ngan rin menibat ing nanuman atin ku yeni ampo kareng datang a aldo, keng dulu ning egana-gana, kaya mu at kaya mu ngan isubli egana-gana.
Jaira Camille R. De Mesa (Jaijaijanai)
Heto ako ngayon, suot ang maskara na may inosenteng ngiti, Na para bang kamalayan ay kay puti Na kung tingnan ay para bang walang kaalam-alam Na para bang isa rin sa minamanipulahan Nitong mundong ating ginagalawan.
Ngunit sa likod ng maskara na aking suot Ay isipang nababalot ng salimuot
At nang ako’y tanungin “ngunit bakit parang may bahid ng pait ang iyong ngiti?” Walang halong biro na aking sinabi Nais mo bang malaman ang mga sikretong ako mismo’y saksi?
Simulan natin sa mga namumuno
Na buong bayan ay sa kanila umiidolo Mga mapagpanggap na tapat at totoo Gagawin ang lahat ng kanilang makakaya Upang sa mata ng tao’y magmukha lamang kaaya-aya.
Ngunit sa likod ng ipinagmamalaki nilang dangal Gaano na nga ba kalaki ang kanilang naisugal?
Mga hipokritong ginagamit ang kapangyarihan sa sariling kaligayahan Mga mamumunong nababalot ng kasinungalingan Mga kunwaring matuwid, baluktot naman.
Subalit sa mundong ating ginagalawan Hindi lang naman sila ang mapagpanggap Nariyan din ang mga naghihirap Mga naghihirap na hindi naman nangangarap Mga naghihirap na hanap lang ay perang ipupusta sa sugalan.
At pagdating naman sa usapang tulong at ayuda Kay galing gumawa ng kwentong nakaluluha Ipinapakita nila na dapat silang kaawaan Na sila ang tunay na nangangailangan Na sila lamang ang karapat-dapat tulungan
Ngunit sino nga ba iyong araw-gabing nakatambay lamang sa daan?
Sino nga ba iyong maghapong nasa inuman at sugalan? ‘Yung panay ang utang pambili ng sigarilyo’t alak? ‘Yung imbes na disenteng trabaho ang hanap, Pagbibisyo ang kanilang inaatupag.
Paano na lamang iyong mga dugo’t pawis ang isinusugal Mabigyan lamang ng disenteng buhay ang kanilang minamahal?
Bakit pagdating sakanila’y walang imik ang pamahalaan?
Bakit kapag sila na ang pinag-uusapan
Doon kayo nagbubulag-bulagan?
Ngunit sino ka ba para sila’y iyong kaawaan? Sapagkat ikaw mismo’y nananahimik lamang?
Patuloy na nagbubulagbubulag-bulagan sa katotohanan
Walang ibang inatupag kundi ang magkaroon ng magandang reputasyon
Iyon ba ang ipinagmamalaki mong ambag sa lipunan?
Ngayon ay sabihin mo sa akin ang sagot
Sa mundong ito, sino nga ba ang tunay na baluktot? Sino nga ba ang mas hipokrito? Ang Mahihirap? Mayayaman? Ikaw? O silang mga namumuno?
Sa mundong puno ng kasinungalingan ay alin pa nga ba ang totoo?
Well, a lot of publications seem to have given President Marcos a positive credit when it comes to reviewing his first 100 days in office. “Putting out fires” is what they described it. Personally, since PBBM’s win, I too gave President Marcos a chance at first and hoped for a pleasing development that our country desperately needed. As someone who will be just starting their life, I think now of his first 100 days as the “bare minimum”. Though a lot of us felt a much different approach from our newly-elected leader, I honestly feel that the 100 days is too early to tell. Those first months won’t reveal the overall competence of the administration for the next 6 years. Especially coming from a third-world country,
His first 100 days is uneventful and bland. To me at least, he focused more on his selfish whims than fixing his cabinet, or anything worthy of his time for that matter. Several storms passed and a lot of our people have suffered and yet he is out there watching F1 Grand Prix. The only thing I’ve heard he’s done is lifting the face mask restrictions, which I’m not sure is a good thing either. So to sum it up, his first 100 days is him acting like a spoiled child sitting at the top post of our government, what can go wrong?
Looking back on BBM’s first three months in office, I can’t recall any specific event that painted him in a positive light. This is because, rather than immediately convening a cabinet meeting to put his plans and “platforms” into action, he is either vlogging, traveling abroad, attending shows, or hosting parties in Malacañang. This happened as Filipinos continued to bear the burden of rising commodity prices. His first 100 days in office demonstrate that he only wants the privileges and benefits that come with being president but none of its actual responsibilities, and I don’t think he intends to change anytime soon.
I can state that after a hundred days of our president’s administration, I’ve noticed that product costs have gone up. I’m hoping that under his leadership, this issue will be resolved so that no Filipino not suffer at much.
To be honest, I’m quite disappointed. We rationalized that we could change the minds of those who do not believe him. But I should point out that we are correct. As far as I can tell, nothing happened to come of the previous promises. Inadequately, the Philippines appears to be losing hope of ever emerging as a country.
With all due respect to our president, his first 100 days is a hundred days of incompetence and inconsistency. He was well aware that the Philippines was facing an economic breakdown at the time of his victory after being voted by 31M Filipinos. Instead of fixing the economy and providing relief to millions of Filipinos affected by the crisis, he chose to focus on things that do not need urgent importance. Even though the majority of the world is facing a crisis, his efforts were not as strong and consistent to be felt by the majority resulting in a further decline in the economy and quality of lives of Filipinos. Filipinos were left regretful and suffering from the crisis alone. In addition, the country was struck by multiple typhoons but he prioritized his lavish lifestyle over being present to the communities that most need him.
According to President Marcos, such significant achievements were made within his first 100 days in office by bringing unity to the government, informing other countries that our nation is open for business, and just facing a plethora of societal issues from left and right. However, I think his first 100 days are just a clear representation of misplaced priorities, the romanticization of unity, and glorification of the Filipino people’s resiliency.
The accomplishments mentioned above are not achievements; thus, they are only the bare minimum as the highest governing leader of the nation. We need bold and concrete strategic plans, especially for our economy, and we’re unlikely to see it within the next succeeding days of his term. We’ve seen unclear policy directions and an apparent crystal prominence of Marcos’ family and the alliances of the elites.
Never in the service of the Filipinos but rather for the satisfaction of self-interest—this encapsulates President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s first 100 days in office. Prior to winning the elections, he and his family made it evident that his primary purposes in pursuing the highest position in the land were to revise history, reestablish their reputation, and live ever so lavishly. These, along with his carelessness for the country and its people, became obvious after PBBM assumed office, with news about misplaced priorities and questionable actions surfacing. Examples of the current regime’s misplaced priorities include the lack of a Secretary of Health amidst the pandemic and no resolve on alarming inflation rates. On the other hand, questionable acts include using undisclosed funds for personal travels disguised as official visits.
Is it really Filipino pride when national athletes take root in their home country but thrive and bear fruit in foreign soil? Or is it simply because foreign lands provide the sustenance Filipino athletes seek and gravely need?
It was in 2019 when Carlos Yulo penned Philippine gymnastics history, with his gold-clinching floor exercise routine in the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships held in Stuttgart, Germany; a feat that graced the sports sections of televisions and newspapers— out of nowhere, we have a gymnastics world champion.
In the same year, Nesthy Petecio ended the 7-year drought of a worlds title in the AIBA Women’s Boxing World Championships in Russia.
The Philippines would host the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) games, where weightlifting marvel Hidilyn Diaz, along with Yulo, and Petecio, dominated their respective fields. Diaz was also fresh from clinching the bronze medal in the 2019 International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) World Championships in Pattaya, Thailand, to maintain her next Olympic bid.
Ernest John Obiena would also qualify for the Tokyo Olympics in 2019, after clearing 5.81 meters in pole vault in the 30th Summer Universiade held in Chiari, Italy. He would also claim his first gold in the 2019 SEA games.
Margielyn Didal also bagged two gold medals in skateboarding, proving her prowess in the rarely recognized sport and maintaining her top spot-clinching routine in the 2018 Asian Games.
It was indeed a year for national athletes; Filipino pride, as we labeled it.
From there, we would witness Diaz claim the Philippines’ first Olympic gold— a feat that was waiting to be accomplished ever since the country participated in the international sporting event way back in 1924. Just recently, Obiena broke records in multiple events, propelling pole vault to popularity.
And of course, causing a stir in the tennis scene is Alex Eala, the 2022 US Open girls’ tennis champion. She is the first Filipina to earn a Grand Slam in tennis.
While all of these feats are cause for celebration, and while the athletes themselves revel in the fact that Filipinos are avid supporters of
sports, a common denominator in the sporting scene persists: athletes opt to train abroad.
This is not, by all means a bad thing; after all, it is natural for competitors to seek the best in order to be the best— in facilities, training programs, coaches— it is simply that, we soak in the pride only after we reap what is sowed.
Take now American citizen Wesley So, who is and will always be the Philippines’ chess marvel, but now chose to represent the country that made him a chess marvel.
The future of sports, and moreover, athletes who bear the flag in international events is, so to speak, bleak. Our home soil is barren, save for some wild growth that is hope— because as administrative support remains a far-fetched dream, the community has rallied, and will always rally behind our sporting heroes.
Bearing the so-called Filipino pride is all the more meaningful if it is embodied through much needed
well-crafted training programs, accessible facilities, and appropriate exposure.
Then one day, a golden age for Philippine sports will be brought about in our own soil, and will also bring about a golden age for the politics that would underlie and ensure the steadfast growth of sportsmen and sportswomen— from student athletes to national representatives.
financial sustenance,
Two of the most sensational sports icons shocked the world by announcing their retirement after decades-long impressive domination in tennis. Elsewhere, a new name resounds in the professional world of tennis, hailing from Quezon City, Philippines. She is Alexandra Maniego Eala, popularly known as Alex Eala. The 17-year-old Filipina prowess crafted another history by being the first ever Filipina to hack out a Junior Grand Slam at the US Open. This was a historical ‘remember her name’ moment.
Serena Williams announced her retirement recently after winning 23 Grand Slam titles over the past two decades. Serena began her professional career at the age of 14 in 1995, the same year her sister, Venus, joined pro after skipping the juniors circuit. Serena is thought to have earned roughly $100 million throughout the course of her career, despite spending many years in the shadow of her older sister.
Roger Federer, a 41-year-old Swiss star who has copped 20 Grand Slam singles titles during his prime, is another tennis stalwart who is “drifting away from tennis”. The timing of announcement, which came after Serena Williams’ final match, was not lost on the attention of tennis aficionados.
Federer witnessed firsthand the young (almost half his age), athletic, hard-hitting contenders like top-tier Carlos Alcaraz of Spain. Federer must have taken these into consideration when he decided to bow out.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, in the women’s junior division, is Alex Eala, who, on September 10 at the Billie Jean King Tennis Center in New York City, outclassed Czech Lucie Havlickova in the US Open girls final after claiming and establishing a real and international distinction as the first player from the Philippines to bag a Grand Slam junior singles title.
Since the Orange Bowl tournament in December 2021, Eala has not participated in any junior competition. She had competed in professional competitions during her hiatus from junior competitions in an effort to hone her physical and mental abilities further. She made sure she was physically able to do certain skill sets that would offer her a competitive edge throughout
BY ZYLAS TIMOTHY REYESthat time. Havlickova’s attempt to become the first tennis player to win two Grand Slam tournaments in a single season since 2013 was derailed by Eala in the US Open finals. The Czech failed in her attempt to impose her might on Eala after burying herself under 21 uncoerced lapses.
Thousands of people who witnessed Eala speak in both English and Filipino after
As these newly-bred Filipino athletes slowly achieve recognition both domestically and internationally, the future of Philippine sports in the forthcoming different sport events is anticipatedPHOTO FROM GMA NEWS 23 US-FINAL READY: Alex Eala defends her ball against a Canadian foe.
Despite the mismanagement of World Number Three pole vaulter, Obiena emerged to secure his status in the Philippine and the greater Asian pole vault scene, thus achieving the best performance of his career yet.
Setting the bar to new heights has been the theme of Ernest John Obiena’s record-breaking stunts in pole vault; but at the same time, it seems his homeground is keen on setting the bar lower and lower — for Filipino athletes and medalists alike.
The Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) sparked chaos in the sporting community around this time last year, bearing sudden and surprising news of Obiena having liquidation and settlement issues with his coach, Vitaliy Petrov.
Although the dispute was settled with the Commission on Audit (COA) and the Philippine Sporting Commission (PSC), ultimately clearing the decorated pole vaulter of any faults, it was yet another grim chapter for national athletes — the spotlight is theirs, yes, but rather than a positive glow, it was a period in which a gleam of scrutiny shone.
The 26-year old Obiena, though seemingly unfazed, merely set foot, grabbed his pole and snatched backto-back medals to propel himself to a golden age. After the controversies with PATAFA, Obiena
came back as Asia’s best, named as World Number Three in his sport.
Obiena began his podium win-streak across Europe in the Taby Stavhoppsgala last June 28, ousting 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic gold medalist Thiago Braz from Brazil; posting 5.92 meters to take the gold.
Obiena would then take another gold in Germany’s Jump and Fly meet, four days after his stint in Sweden.
His most prominent competition that commenced in July, in Oregon, USA, was where he broke the 23-year old Asian record in the World Athletics Championships, nailing 5.94 meters in his second attempt to strike bronze. This made Obiena the first Filipino to win the coveted athletics meet, a victory that cemented his status as Asia’s best in pole vault and elevating his rank in the world’s top list, trailing behind USA’s Christopher Nilsen and the current World Number One, Tokyo Olympics gold medalist Armand Duplantis of Sweden.
From then, Obiena would take another bronze in Poland, in the Silesia Diamond League, and embark on a historic streak.
Obiena, with chalked hands, 20 years of jumping experience, and tenacity mighty enough to bring down two other pole vault giants, sprinted along the runway, jammed his pole, and lifted himself to ensure one podium finish after another.
Obiena soared past the horizontal bar and registered the winning height in five straight competitions: in the True Athletes Classics, the St. Wendel City Jump, the Internationales Stabhochsprung Meeting where he bested World Number Two Nilsen, and in the Golden Roof Challenge in Austria where he now holds the Asian record with 5.93 meters after erasing Kazakhstan’s Igor Potapovich’s 5.92-meter showing back in 1998.
The Diamond League Meet of Memorial van Damme in Belgium is one for the books as Obiena continued his golden streak and made World Number One, Olympic and World-record holder Duplantis settle for silver.
It was more than biting back at PATAFA, “...It’s hard to be an elite professional athlete, but it is truly harder to be a Filipino national athlete…” Obiena opened up in an interview with Esquire.
Nevertheless, he performed with the lauded Filipino spirit that courses within Filipino athletes — the unrelenting drive that has been allowing them to persist despite wavering administrative support.
That’s not to say athletes like Wesley So and Yuka Saso who chose different paths are worthy of judgment or scrutiny; they are simply vivid examples of the state of sporting events, mismanagement, and the overall lack of sports structure commissions and government support. “I felt like Philippine sports is in the Golden Age. And this is the time for us to hopefully get better change in the politics of Philippine sports,” Obiena added.
Obiena had returned from his victorious USA and Europe stints to the country to rest before resuming his training for the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he is aiming to finally take home a coveted medal to raise the bar for Asian pole vault and of course, display historic feats as a Filipino pole vaulter, who, like all athletes, is worthy of emulation and honor that is backed with proper management and structured support.
Kai Sotto was left undrafted in the 2022 NBA Draft that took place on June 23, 2022, held at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
Sotto, age 20 and standing at 7-foot-3, did not receive a chance from any team to become the first-ever Filipino homegrown player in the NBA. Despite working out for eight NBA teams, Sotto failed to spark interest to be drafted into these teams.
Filipino boxing legend Manny Pacquiao announced he would face South Korean YouTuber DK Yoo in a charitable fight. The match was held on December 11 at Korea International Exhibition Center in Goyang, South Korea.
Pacquiao, now 43 years old, stated that this was not a comeback from retirement, but a charity event for Ukrainian war victims and homeless Filipinos. He claimed he and Yoo would still perform quality conditioning for a serious six-round exhibition.
He said that he is thankful for the opportunity of the upcoming event and will prepare himself through constant training. He claimed that he and Yoo would view the event as seriously as a professional fight.
The fight was agreed that there will be no
weight limits. Yoo weighed approximately 175 to 180 lbs, while Pacquiao was around only 150 to 153 lbs. Both fighters were provided with 10-ounce boxing gloves. Six rounds were set, each lasting for only two minutes.
Pacquiao announced his retirement from professional boxing a few months after being defeated by Yordenis Ugás and before becoming a presidential candidate of the Philippines in late 2021 to dedicate his campaign period. He was placed third behind Leni Robredo and
Though, this will not stop Sotto from reaching his dream to play in the NBA. He claims that he has other plans to develop his basketball career.
Even if he is given an opportunity to play in the NBA Summer League to be potentially scouted, Sotto and his team did not make any decision yet. Instead, they clarified that Sotto will play for Gilas Pilipinas in the 2023 World Cup Asian qualifiers.
Playing at the center position, Sotto was given high hopes to take his skills to the NBA after being discovered for his staggering height and basketball talent.
He played varsity for Ateneo de Manila High School and for the Philippine National Team in the SEABA U16 Championship in 2017 where he won gold. At age 17, he then took his talents to the United States by training in the Skill Factory, a basketball training program located in Atlanta, Georgia. Before entering the draft Sotto played for the Adelaide 36ers, an Australian team in the NBL, in 2021 for 1 year.
Currently, he has returned to the Adelaide 36ers to continue advancing his skills hoping that one day he will be playing in the NBA.
Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., who won the presidential election last May 2022.
Questions on a possible return to professional boxing continue to debate Pacquiao’s decision. He has not come up with a final decision. He said he would see it based on his performance after the charity fight.
Pacquiao also prepared himself for another charitable fight, an eight-round exhibition match, against Jaber Zayani, his sparring mate, which took place in February in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
ANGELES CITY, Pampanga – aspiring esports student-athletes from the Angeles University Foundation are ready to take the center stage at AcadArena as they return to their new season with more teams to participate.
have been actively competing in university-wide tournaments and scrimmaging against different universities across the Philippines.
GD Esports joined the AcadArena last August 2020, with the help of Francis Angelo “Dio” Perez, the founder of AUF Great Danes Esports, and its set of officers.
AcadArena offers various scholarship programs which are eligible for any students, members, players, and staff who are bonafide college students or currently enrolled in any master’s degree. They may also be part of an alliance or an accredited student organization by AcadArena and have demonstrated excellence and versatility in both academics and gaming. The students must have good grades and good character, but there are certain criteria that are taken into consideration in order to be qualified as an esports merit scholar.
represented GD esports in the AcadArena matches.
Great Danes Esports recognizes that they have already accomplished what is required for campus esports — for the past year, they’ve been hosting tournaments inside and outside of the university, forging side-by-side partnerships, and
In today’s season, the powerhouse team of GD esports represents two teams for Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, one team for Valorant, and one team for League of Legends. Through their selection process, character, communication, skills, and sportsmanship were the essential attributes they eyed for their players who
AUF was one of 24 universities in Luzon and one of 79 universities in the Philippines that competed in the Alliance Games (ALLG) Split 2 of the AcadArena last October 1.
“We decided to join the AcadArena in order for us to offer something more to our players, dahil wala din available tournaments ang inooffer sa AUF, and we want to represent the AUF in the esports sector. Na hindi lang pang academic or sports ang kayang ibigay ng AUF students kung hindi sa esports din,” Stephen John Soto, President of AUF GD Esports, said.
GD Esports extends its invitation to watch and support their games every month at AcadArena ACES, and to its many matches and partnerships in the future.
For now, continuous development for the players and maximizing the opportunity to compete in different tournaments inside and outside of the university are the plans of GD Esports while preparing for their upcoming games.
For more information, questions, and inquiries, follow or contact GD Esports on their official Facebook page or message them through their email at greatdanesesports@auf.edu.ph.
Full scholarship discounts are continuously granted for the resident athletes of the university as confirmed by the Office of the Student Affairs and Financial Aid (OSAFA) Director Ma. Gwendelyn Oronce during the courtesy call with Engr. Jose Macapagal Jr. held right after the Induction Ceremonies last October 14 at the AUF Sports and Cultural Center (AUF-SCC).
Though face-to-face leagues and athletic training are frozen at the moment, OSAFA assured that they would never cut the line extended for the recipients.
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Living up to the university’s mantra “Bigger, Better, Smarter, Stronger,” Great Dane (GD) Esports are equipped with more members to facilitate a better and more systematic esports tournament for the upcoming Angeles University Foundation University Week.
The tournament was the second university-wide event of GD Esports. President Stephen John T. Soto stated that they’re prepared
“I can say with full pride that the institution’s administrators decided not to change the percentage of the scholarship discount given to the athletes even when we are struck by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Oronce said in the conference.
She also added that the old protocol of keeping a stellar academic record is also a must for the AUF athletes to enjoy the full discount.
At the moment, the AUF Sports Department has resumed its screening for this year’s possible new roster of Great Danes.
to face the encountered problem last event with clearer solutions now that the organization gathered more members in contrast to their low population in the last term.
The most significant preparation for the event was creating a schedule. There are four esports tournaments namely Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Call of Duty Mobile, League of Legends, and Valorant. Each tournament had its own schedule as pc games took longer duration than mobile games.
“Schedule is a broad term in our organization since we handle at least two to three schedules for the U-week. The specifics would be by creating schedules for both streaming and shoutcasting for games, marshals that will make sure that the competition will
run smoothly and will be there for the strict implementations of rules and regulations,” Soto said.
“The most daunting task is creating a schedule for the whole student body where we need to calculate and consider each and every detail that each college would provide. This is to ensure that the flow of games will run smoothly and avoid delays,” He added.
Before creating a schedule the first thing to consider was the participants. Each college selected its representatives. One problem encountered in the last event was the delay in submitting the list of representatives. Another was the availability of the players. All of these were considered in
All bona fide AUF students can participate in the events and the respective College Student Council screened the applicants.
AUF University Student Council (USC) organized the annual university week and tournaments were streamed via Discord and the official Facebook page of the GD Esports and USC.
