The Seagull Newsletter Issue

What’s Inside

VOL.26 NO.1 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

LEADING THE WAY, UNFOLDING THE TRUTH

NEWS JCI-REGATTA HONORS JBLFMU-M AS 2020 TOSIA ELITE THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF JOHN B. LACON FOUNDATION MARITIME UNIVERSITY (MOLO), INC.

Junior Chamber InternationalRegatta (JCI-Regatta) honored John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University –Molo, Inc.... read on page 2

NEWS CRCY REAPS MOST OUTSTANDING COLLEGE RED CROSS YOUTH COUNCIL John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University- Molo (JBLFMU-M) College Red Cross Youth (CRCY) proved their... read on page 4

EDITORIAL INFODEMIC: THE DIGITAL DELUSION ILLUSTRATION BY MDPN. NINO REY V. LLEGUE

JBLFMU- M ADOPTS PARADIGM SHIFT IN EDUCATIONAL SYSTEM

BY SHAIRA A. AGREGADO AND MDPWN. ERICA F. OPINION

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Under the per tinent provisions of Republic Act (RA) No. 7722, other wise known as “Higher Education Act of 1994”; Republic Act No. 11649 other wise known as the “Bayanihan to Heal as One Act”; and by vir tue of Commission en Banc (CEB) Resolution No. 412- 2020, series of 2020, John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University- Molo (JBLFMU-M) embraced paradigm shift in the educational system as mandated by the said provisions.

The first semester of School Year 2020-2021 started on August 17, 2020, wherein the first two weeks were dedicated to understanding how the JBLFMU e-Learning (JeL) platform works.

“The Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ronald Raymond L. Sebastian, gathered the Executive Council Members and the Academic Heads of the University to deal with the new situation brought about by the pandemic. We planned how to handle the new academic year, decided VISIT OUR WEBSITES:

to produce our modules, revitalize and upgrade our internet capability, the use of Moodle application, and taking care of the contents hosted under our digital infrastructure” Mr. Rober t O. Parcia, the unit administrator, said.

Furthermore, to prepare for the new learning modality, the university conducted a series of training and seminars for the faculty wherein they have to pass a competency examination before they can be allowed to teach.

“All of our faculty members are trained to handle the online deliver y of instruction. Some faculty members who did not satisfactorily passed the competency evaluation after the training were required to repeat the course until they were cer tified to the new modality. The Academic Heads ensure that their Faculty members are well monitored and that the

Knowledge curating is just as important as content moderation.

The curve of misinformation... read on page 6

NEWS DRS. ALIMEN, ELEPERIA RECIEVE 2020 AWARD

John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University - Molo (JBLFMU-M) faculty Dr. Ronaldo Alimen, Unit Research... read on page 14

N E W S F E AT U R E JBLFMU-M DORMITORY: ABODE FOR DISCIPLINED SCHOLAR CADETS

The dorm life is not like throwing a party oftentimes, drinking beers and smoking cigars freely late at night, a scenario that... read on page 15

PARADIGM SHIFT | PAGE 3 >>>

The Seagull (The Official Publication of JBLFMU-Molo) |

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NEWS SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

JCI-REGATTA HONORS JBLFMU-M AS 2020 TOSIA ELITE

BY SHAIRA A. AGREGADO AND MDPWN. RENGEE GWYNETH E. BALDEVISO

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unior Chamber InternationalRegatta (JCI-Regatta) honored John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University –Molo, Inc. (JBLFMU-M) as the only recipient of “TOSIA Elite” in the college category at this year’s The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards (TOSIA) during their first-ever virtual awarding ceremony which was streamed via Facebook, September 28.

According to Mr. Raymund Benedick Brillantes, TOSIA nominations in charge, schools who have sent finalists for the past 5 years is the only qualification to be accredited with the “TOSIA Elite” award, then the awarding ceremony was initially scheduled last March 2020 but was put on hold due to the pandemic since the organizing committee is dynamic and innovative, they were able to push through the first-ever Virtual Awarding Ceremony which was streamed live via their official Facebook page.

TOSIA aims to choose and give honor and recognition to “TOSIA batch MaXIma,” who embody the four pillars of the project in academic excellence, leadership, community involvement, and faith in creating a positive

change.

Also, they acknowledge the school that took part in this project for upskilling their students to become dynamic youths.

Also, Mdpn. Alain Jay Obidos and Mdpn.

Jehudiel Sumbi, a third-year students of Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering (BSME) made it to the roster of finalists in the search for the The Outstanding Students of Empowering Lacsonians.

SAS- Guidance invited sharing their TOSIA insights during the webinar.

EXCELLENCE. Mdpn.and Obidos andspeakers Mdpn. Sumbi during 2020 Virtual Awarding Iloilo Awards (TOSIA).

■ Photo by TOSIA-The Outstanding of IloiloFacebook Awards Official Ceremony viaStudents TOSIA Official Page Facebook page “The pressure is real since it is a challenge to sustain the feat. nominees to take the chance and give a try. I Last year, we were recognized with The Seal of know he is smiling from above.” Mr. Brillantes Excellence for being part of TOSIA for the past added.

10 years. As a mentor, I was so relieved to see Moreover, amidst the COVID-19 the names our recommendees as finalists. pandemic, TOSIA, in its 11​th​year, along with Feeling ko ako gaintra ya. And honestly, amo JCI-Regatta, a ​ non-governmental organization ni na feel ko year after year. I am emotional that has passion and commitment in making for this because since our nominees were a difference to create positive change,​gave hesitant at first to join. And we dedicate this a salute to schools and universities​ for achievement to Dean Ralph Zamoras since molding outstanding student leaders and he was very instrumental to convince our awardees to be young active citizens.

JBLFMU-M CONDUCTS VIRTUAL INITIATION RITES 2020 The Big-I, September 30, 2020.

For this year’s initiation rites, JBLFMU administered a video making contest and ith this year’s theme “Maritime a photo collage contest for the first year Vanguard: The Continuing Saga students. The entries were determined in Facing the new Normal” John through the most number of Heart Reactions B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University- to the actual post/photos and was helped Molo conducted its virtual Community adjudged by Mdpn. June Famur, Grand Service Day and initiation rites celebration— winner of the Fuji film nationwide Photo walk Non Fuji Category, Mdpn.

Allan Roberto BS Mar-E instructor and Mr. Eiman Gallo, JBLFMU Multimedia Developer.

“This year’s event is not the same for the freshmen/ lacsonians because of the pandemic. But the SSG, faculty and staff of JBLFMU-Molo tried their best and gave their full efforts for this event to be successful. The Challenge for the participants is that they have limited internet access and borrowed laptops and cellphones to CREATIVE. JBFLMU first year students on the virtual initiation rites.

■ Photo by Supreme Student Government (SSG) do their entry.” Mdpn. Ian

BY MDPWN. MA. HEATHER BACERA

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Caballero, SSG president said.

Mdpn. Caballero further emphasized that it was the individual interest of 1st year students to participate in the activity. “They have the lacsonian spirit and they carry the core values, culture and advocacy of JBLFMU-Molo. That’s why the event is a big success. The cash price is also a big help to the participants to hurdle the basic needs on this time of pandemic. At the same time, it helps the participants to showcase their talents using the core values of the school,” he added.

Furthermore, Mdpn Aster Jhun, Sajonia secured the the 1st place while Mdpn. Francis Nuneza was hailed as 2nd runner up and Mdpn. Dean Andre Chicano as 3rd runner up in the Photo Collage contest respectively. On the other hand, Mdpn. John Lloyd Magallon notched the first place in the Video making contest and Mdpn. Joshua Villagracia won the second place while Mdpn. Jericho Cabito, Mdpn. Sheperd Jade Gallo, Mdpn. Jefrranz Consing and Mdpn Jonel Golager secured the 3rd place. The winners received cash prices and E- Certificates.

The Community Service Day and initiation rites is an annual tradition which invites first year college students into participating to become a true blooded Lacsonian. The activities are anchored on the University’s advocacy, culture, and core values.

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF JOHN B. LACON FOUNDATION MARITIME UNIVERSITY (MOLO), INC. | VOL.26 NO.1 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

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JBLFMU-M CONDUCTS WEBINAR FOR MENTAL HEALTH; RAISE AWARENESS AMONG LACSONIANS

BY MDPWN. ERICA F. OPINION AND MDPWN. MAIREL A. GERZON

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ith the aim to give awareness among Lacsonians on the pressing issues such as cyber bullying, health awareness and mental health due to the increasing number of mental health issues leading to suicide, John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University- Molo (JBLFMU-M) conducted an Online KaMUstahan: We are one for healthy Lacsonians, as part of the SAS-Guidance webinar series, October 30.

The webinar is intended to reach out

>>> PARADIGM SHIFT | FROM PAGE 3 students’ concerns are well addressed”, Mr. Parcia added.

Additionally, the school claimed that face-to-face setup is more efficient and effective, but there is no other option except for online learning in the current situation. The school has an obligation over its students and its employees to find a way to continue operation no

Donie M. Mañosa, RGC said.

Furthermore, the topics tackled in the said webinar are Mental Health, Cyberbullying and Health Awareness given by various speaker namely, Dr. Sheila A. Javier, RGC, RPm – Guidance Counselor of University of St. La Salle – Bacolod, Ms. Charlotte C. Leigh, RGC – Guidance Counselor of University of San Agustin and Dr. Edwin P. Sulit, RN - Medical Officer & Medical Consultant to some hospitals.

“Cases of suicide is increasing. Teens have been the casualties because of stress, pressure and demands of online classes. The poor internet EMPOWERING LACSONIANS. SAS- Guidance team together with the invited speakers sharing their connectivity and too much expertise during the webinar.■ Photo by JBLFMU-M SAS FB page workloads are causes of this problem. So we at SAS-Guidance Lacsonians despite the current situation as part of the Guidance program for finds it deem necessary to give awareness the students, in order to have proper to the Lacsonians on how to adapt and look communication towards the teachers with for means to distress”, Mr. Mañosa added.

Moreover, Mr. Mañosa also the use of online streaming platforms.

“In lieu of face to face interaction emphasized that the activity will make the which is prohibited as of the moment, Lacsonians aware of the things to do in case we created this online kaMUstahan they are being bullied, the proper protocols (MU stands for maritime university) to get rid of diseases and on how to cope to adapt with what is the demand up with stress and demands of online class right now which is online but still looking and most especially on how to take care of out for the welfare of the students,” Mr. their mental health.

matter what.

“JBLFMU wants what is best for its students and the welfare of its employees; we need to continue our operations despite the challenges.

Considering the new system of learning, we continue to monitor the effectiveness of the delivery of instruction. Faculty are well aware of the fact that most of the subject matters are learned asynchronously; therefore, their guidance to the students should be prominent,” Mr. Parcia highlighted.

Moreover, for the faculty to have a smooth and continuous connection to the students, the school has upgraded the internet infrastructure and assisted the faculty members by providing them laptops and accessories. The school also ensures regular maintenance of the e-learning platform so that the processes will run smoothly.

“Covid19 is something new that we need to learn about adopting and coexisting with it so we can continue living our lives,” Mr. Parcia emphasized.

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF JOHN B. LACSON FOUNDATION MARITIME UNIVERSITY (MOLO), INC. | VOL.26 NO.1 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

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NEWS SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

CRCY REAPS MOST OUTSTANDING COLLEGE RED CROSS YOUTH COUNCIL

BY MDPWN. MAIREL A. GERZON AND MDPN. JAN REYNARD GALILEA

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ohn B. Lacson Foundation Maritime UniversityMolo (JBLFMU-M) College Red Cross Youth (CRCY) proved their prowess and enthusiasm as they reaped the Most Outstanding College Red Cross Youth Council award (CRCY and Community Category) during the Virtual Closing Program of RCY Month Celebration, October 30.

The event aims to recognize the outstanding contribution, activities and services rendered by the RCY Council and RCY members in the city and province.

Likewise, the JBLFMU-M RCY Council managed to gather documents for submission specifically the certificates and pictures.

“At first, it’s just a usual submission of bid book which we always do before the end of the school year but lockdown and pandemic came, like we almost forgot that we have joined the contest.

Because also of pandemic that the awarding ceremony was postponed until this November 2020,” Mr. Donnie

Alvon M. Mañosa, RGC, JBLFMU-M CRCY adviser said.

Furthermore, each council submitted a portfolio or bid book last March, containing each council’s activities, achievements and other things related to Red Cross activities. Then, an interview follows after the submission of the bid book.

“We’re very happy and grateful that all the hard works of my RCY was given recognition.

This is not only for CRCY but for JBLFMU-Molo community. It’s more of a responsibility to do better and improve on our service to the school and to the community as well,” he added.

Moreover, JBLFMU-Molo CRCY was

EMBARKING EXCELLENCE. Virtual announcement of winners during the RCY Month Recap ■ Photo by Red Cross Youth (RCY) Iloilo

also awarded as the Most Cooperative Council for SY 2017-2018 and obtained a 3-peat overall champion in the RCY Month from SY 2017-2018 to SY 20192020.

Caballero serves as Reactor in World Maritime Day Webinar

BY MDPWN. ERICA F. OPINION

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ith the theme, “Sustainable Shipping for a Sustainable Planet” Mdpn. Ian J. Caballero, a third-year Marine Engineering student and currently the Supreme Student Government President acted as one of the reactors in an international webinar as part of the World Maritime Day Celebration, September 24.

The webinar entitled “Navigating ASEAN Waters: Key to a Sustainable and Peaceful Co-Management” aims to identify maritime activities that cause marine pollution and to feature young conservation leaders from Southeast Asia and their important roles in marine conservation.

“It is both an honor and privilege to be one of the panel of reactors especially in an international event like this because I was

able to voice out my side as a perspective of a maritime student on the conservation of ASEAN Waters,” Mdpn. Caballero said.

Furthermore, the said webinar tackled the different conservation efforts done by ASEAN Nations especially in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia with invited speakers namely, Romina Therese Lim of the University of the Philippines Diliman- Marine Science Institute, Chai Ming “Edmund” Lau of Reef Check Malaysia and Hadi Yoga Dewanto from Ministry of Marine and Fisheries Affairs of Indonesia.

The said webinar is in line with the World Maritime Day celebration wherein it encourages youth conservation leaders, aspiring diplomats, International Relations enthusiasts, and seafarers to widen the discourse of marine conservation in the maritime industry.

“World Maritime Day intends to appreciate and give importance to the seafarers as well as the seafaring industry as shipping has continued to transport more than 80% of world trade, including vital medical supplies, food, and other basic goods that are critical for the COVID-19 response and recovery,” Mdpn. Caballero added.

Moreover, JBLFMU alumnus, John Godwin F. Nallada is also one of the reactors in the webinar that is organized by the Conflict Resolution Clinic (CRC) 2020 an educational camp for emerging leaders to thematically grasp the principles of conflict resolution in a theoretical settling with a drive to conduct webinar which highlights youth’s role in marine conservation. .

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF JOHN B. LACSON FOUNDATION MARITIME UNIVERSITY (MOLO), INC. | VOL.26 NO.1 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

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Curbing violence: Gang wars should be put to end

o experience love and belongingness is an irreducible need of all people. We are biologically, cognitively, physically, and spiritually wired to feel that we belong—but sometimes these needs are not met, and some people usually don’t tend to function as they were meant to because of it. Rebellion amongst teenagers is not new, the raging hormones and the sense of being independent is part of the phase of adulthood where decision making can sometimes get compromised and get out of hand—just like with an incident that happened at Plaza Libertad in City Proper district. Despite the ongoing General Community Quarantine (GCQ) over a hundred teens got involved in a gang fight. Following an incident of groups of youngsters clashing in Barangay AduanaArsenal Adding an incident on August 5 where a notorious gang leader in Iloilo province got killed after exchanging bullets with police operatives in a remote village in Calinog, which boils down to the question— why?

Our emotions are hard to fathom. Just like what Sigmund Freud said— “Unexpressed emotions will never die they are buried alive and will come forth later in uglier ways.” adolescent rebellion is not simply a matter of parental aggravation; it is also a matter of concern. Although teenagers think rebellion is an act of independence, it actually never is. It is really an act of dependency. Rebellion causes the young person to depend their self-definition and personal conduct on

The Mockingjay Mdpwn. Ma.Heather C, Bacera

Ma.heatherbacera1998@gmail.com

..“The key for continuous progress is building a strong foundation for the next generation,that is why we must—at all cost nurture them to sustain a healthy and productive society”

doing the opposite of what other people want.

In this case, I believe that parents play a very important role in addressing this issue.

Iloilo city is highly urbanized today; the influence of modernization greatly affects the mindset of

teenagers. To fit in, teenagers seek support from gang groups. Involvement in violent gangs requires to do violence as well where it becomes a basic condition of their life, to be required to violate their own identity.

Moreover, my opinion to prevent youth from joining gangs—communities must strengthen families and schools, improve community supervision, train teachers and parents to manage disruptive youth, and teach students interpersonal skills In a statement of Mayor Jerry Trenas, he announced that he has already ordered for the drafting of the executive order (EO) to extend curfew hours for minors in Iloilo City. According to the mayor, the new policy will help in minimizing incidents involving minors. Police Lieutenant Colonel Reuben Siason, deputy city director for operations of the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO), also underscored the need to curb gang violence. According to Siason, the city police is now monitoring the movements of 27 gangs and ready to neutralize them.

Yes, violence is hard to stop, but as people living in one society, we must bear in mind the safety of one another. Our nation is currently suffering from Covid-19 pandemic, we must put all our efforts in helping one another—like teenagers who are having a hard time to fit in society, to provide and extend support to whatever crisis they are going through within them to sustain a healthier and safer environment in society.

Shift Happens: Asynchronous Classes, JBLFMU’s New Paradigm in Learning

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he coronavirus pandemic affected hundreds of thousands of institutions worldwide, it particularly transformed the education system, impacting 91 percent of the world’s student population. With this sudden educational shift from classroom to online learning across the globe, schools still continued and prepared for the academic year 2020-2021 amid COVID-19 outbreak.

Left with no choice but to adapt the new system of learning during this pandemic, John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) embraced remote learning or asynchronous classes despite the struggle and challenges faced. But, how will JBLFMU maintain their commitment towards character development, equity, accessibility, and social responsibility as they adapt to new ways of teaching and learning under social distancing guidelines? Will JBLFMU make education inclusive? Or will JBLFMU pivot to all distance learning? These are some of the uncertainties of Lacsonians, like I am, towards JBLFMU’s new paradigm of learning, the asynchronous classes.

Regardless of all the efforts done in preparing for this digital shift, challenges

for the Lacsonian community remain, including having an unstable or poor internet connection, lack of gadgets, time limitations on classes done through Zoom’s free version, and the strain on mental health.

Internet connectivity is important nowadays, having a stable internet connection at home is an essential requirement for shifting from synchronous classes to remote learning.

Hence, the good news is that virtual learning can be just as informative, engaging, and impactful as physical learning. The key to success will come down to acknowledging the need for change and a willingness to adopt new processes and tools that could make remote learning less stressful and more impactful.

Lacsonians living in rural areas face different connectivity challenges because connectivity is much better in urban areas compared to the rural areas. Many are only relying on wireless data connections from a mobile, which makes it often hard for most of them to attend in Zoom Classes. High cost of data plans or prepaid loads also makes online learning unavailable to most users.

As we all adjust to this new normal, wherein we live with uncertainty about our

The Inkless Pen Mdpwn. Rengee Gwyneth E. Baldeviso gwynethbaldeviso@gmail.com

...students’ plea for empathy.. a cry for inclusivity...

own security, institutions such as JBLFMU have the ultimate opportunity to be innovative about upholding their missions related to holistic education and student development, which is especially important right now.

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF JOHN B. LACSON FOUNDATION MARITIME UNIVERSITY (MOLO), INC. | VOL.26 NO.1 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

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EDITORIAL

- MDPN. NIÑO REY V. LLEGUE

SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

content moderators—have forcefully receded.

According to the World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, we’re not just fighting an epidemic but rather we’re fighting an infodemic. In just three weeks after COVID-19 spread outside China, the United States Department recorded two million tweets peddling conspiracy theories.

All the while, modern psychological research suggests the prevailing sense of uncertainty makes us more likely to accept any information that provides even a modicum of security or control.

Moreover, sites have discovered ways to circumvent artificialintelligence tools and harried moderators, and that makes the role of human fact-checkers more important.

But for every item of misinformation and disinformation that are dealt with, more pop up.

The COVID-19 infodemic has damaged public trust in science, but it is also an opportunity to review the methods used to communicate science in order to increase transparency and transform the business model from one that enormously benefits publishers to one that benefits science itself.

Journals now have an opportunity to revisit their business models and reflect on how they shape academic work and research in general. It is time to abandon the vices acquired during times when printed communications were the norm.

Science dissemination has become a very profitable business for private companies, perhaps against the interest of science.

Social networks need to detox their algorithms to downgrade pages, groups, and domains belonging to misinformation accelerators and keep harmful content out of their traffic. This is not censorship, it is preventing fake news from reaching users. The authorities, the scientific community, and the people responsible for social networks must also remember the importance of quickly filling the information void with trusted sources of information, as Google started to do early on the pandemic by allowing only trusted information on its search engine.

We all must help to produce and disseminate quality information, while at the same time avoiding rumors and scandals that will only fuel the parallel infodemic.

Infodemic: The Digital Delusion Knowledge curation is just as important as content moderation.

The curve of misinformation must be flattened by social media firms.

Researchers and politicians should and must ensure that social media platforms find, enforce, and assess ways to curb the dissemination of dangerous disinformation and that this analysis can be assessed by independent researchers. When politicians or their officials repress information in the expectation of soothing nervous populations or intentionally leak supposedly reassuring misinformation, they risk damaging their own reputation and willingness to help people cope with actual health risks.

Anyone with a Facebook account can hardly see that as a surprise.

Globally, the spike of misinformation has been deeply felt in the Philippines, frequently pointed to as a petri dish for the harmful techniques of information warfare that eventually swept their way through Western democracies. Public health authorities and technology companies are aware of the damage that is being done and are trying to adapt.

To their credit, sites such as Facebook and YouTube are more involved in the recruiting of posts where there is a direct danger to public health. When questions such as ``is vaccination safe” are entered in Google, search algorithms list websites that have evidence-based facts.

Around 1 January and mid-

March2020, our social media tracking at The Vaccine Trust Initiative captured more than 240 million digital and social media messages worldwide relating to the latest virus, with an average of 3.08 million messages every day. On Twitter, 113 million unique writers posted everything from news stories and feedback on COVID-19, thoughts on quarantine measures, theories about the cause of the virus, and home-brewed remedies. They varied from the comparatively harmless— eat garlic—to the downright dangerous— drink bleach. One post wrongly reported to be from Stanford University in California suggested that you drink water to suppress the virus or hold your breath for ten seconds to decide if you are sick.

Where official sources of information are viewed as untrustworthy, the atmosphere is primed for the viral dissemination of baseless rumors.

COVID-19 has caused a fountain of rumors—an indistinguishable blend of unverified facts, helpful information, misinformation, and deliberately manipulated disinformation.

Disinformation is indeed very serious. But in the sense of a fast-moving and highly infectious epidemic, we are no longer simply talking about losing trust in public institutions. The stakes have been lifted exponentially by COVID-19. It’s about life and death now. The virus has provided the most fertile ground for the dissemination of false facts. Since when confusion and controversy have risen, mainstream gatekeepers—media, fact-checkers, and

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF JOHN B. LACSON FOUNDATION MARITIME UNIVERSITY (MOLO), INC. | VOL.26 NO.1 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

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Member Alliance of Lacsonian Campus Journalists and Advisers

Shaira A. Agregado EDITOR IN CHIEF Mdpwn. Erica F. Opinion ASSOCIATE EDITOR IN CHIEF Mdpwn. Ma. Heather C. Bacera MANAGING EDITOR Mdpwn. Mairel A. Gerzon NEWS EDITOR Mdpn. Jan Reynard L. Galilea NEWS WRITER Mdpwn. Rengee Gwyneth E. Baldeviso FEATURE EDITOR Jessiea B. Flores FEATURE WRITER Mdpn. Franklin Kyles M. Matricular SPORTS EDITOR Mdpn. Niño Rey V. Llegue LAYOUT ARTIST Mdpwn. Franz Chrysler Marie C. Delgado CARTOONIST Rose Antonette A. Ramos PHOTOJOURNALIST Mrs. Febe Rose L. Torres ADVISER

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Editorial Policy

he seagull published at least twice every semester by the publication office at John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University - Molo, Inc., Molo, Iloilo City. Article containes herein are personal views and opinions of the staff and/or provide an open forum for discussion.

We accept original articles and contributions from students, faculty, and staff. Comments and suggestions regarding our issues are warmly welcomed. Articles submitted must be typewritten with sufficient space and margin.

- FRANZ CHRYSLER MARIE C. DELGADO

SSL ‘19: Gaano ka sapat, ang sapat na?

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a panahon kung saan lahat ng pangunahing pangangailangan ay nagtataasan, gaano nga ba kasapat ang sahod na tinatanggap ng bawat Pilipinong indibidwal lalong-lalo na ang nasa kawani ng pamahalaan? Sapat na ba sa mga manggagawang Pilipino ang sapat para sa pamahalaan?

Noong lamang January 8, 2020 ay nilagdaan ni Pang. Rodrigo Roa Duterte ang Salary Standardization Law o SSL 2019. Ang batas na ito ay naglalayong magbigay umento sa sahod ng mga empleyado ng gobyerno tulad ng mga pampublikong guro. Ang mga empleyado na may Salary Grades 10 hanggang 15 ang makatatanggap ng pinakamataas na umento na aabot ng 20 hanggang 30 porsyento samantalang ang ang mga nasa SG 25 hanggang 33 naman ang may pinakamababang taas-sweldo na tatanggap lamang ng walong porsyentong taas. Nasa kabuuang P34.2 bilyong halaga ang inilaan sa ilalim ng 2020 national budget para sa unang bugso ng implementasyon ng SSL. Marami ang natuwa dahil matapos ang halos tatlong taong paghihintay sa nasabing umento, ito ay naipatupad na rin sa wakas. Ngunit, sa kabila ng paglagda ng batas, marami pa rin ang umalma lalo na ang mga samahan ng mga guro sa kabila na sila ang sinasabing mas makikinabang sa naturang batas. Ito ay sa kadahilanang mas mababa sa inaasahan nilang maging umento sa kanilang sahod kumpara sa ibang ‘uniformed personnel’.

Sa nakaaraaang SSL noong 2018, ang mga pulis at militar ay nakatanggap ng halos 58. 7 porysentong taas sa kanilang sahod. Samantalang, halos anim na libo lamang ang itinaas ng mga guro sa loob ng apat na taon at depende pa sa kanilang ‘salary grade levels’. Nagpapakita lamang ito na sa loob ng mahabang panahon hindi nabigyan ng mataas o sapat na umento ang mga guro sa kabila ng kanilang mga naging kontribusyon sa lipunan.

Ayon pa kay Representative France Castro ng ACT Teachers Party List, ang P31 bilyong nasabing umento ay hindi sapat at kapos ito para sa lahat ng guro. Ipinunto din niya na noong nakaraang 2016, ang alokasyon sa unang bugso ng SSL ay umabot na sa P57. 9 bilyong halaga at mas nakinabang lamang dito ang nasa mataas na ‘salaray grade’ at maliit lamang ang tumaas sa sahod ng nasa mababang SG. Kung inyong makikita mas bumaba ng higit 20 bilyon ang naging alokasyon sa magiging umento sa sahod ng mga guro.

Samantala, ayon naman kay DepEd Undersecretary Annalyn Sevilla, sa mahigit-kumulang milyong mga guro sa buong bansa ang P10, 000 na dagdag sa sahod sa mga guro lamang ay aabot na sa P140 hanggang P150 bilyong halaga. At kung pipilitin mang maibigay ito sa mga guro ang nakikitaang posibleng paraan ay ang pagtaas ng mga buwis, paghiram ng pera sa pamamagitan ng mga loans at pagbawas sa alokasyon ng ibang sektor sa ‘national budget’ kung saan sadyang mahihirapan ang pamahalaan.

Ngunit, kung pagbabasehan ang mga pahayag ng dating Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno na ayon sa kanya, ang pagbibigay ng karagdagang umento sa sahod ng mga guro na magkakahalaga na ng P343.7 bilyon ay magkakaroon din ng karagdagang limang porsyento sa kakulangan ang pamahalaan. Subalit, bakit pa itinaas ng halos kalahating porsyento ang umento ng MUP’s kung kulang pala ang ‘budget’ sa una pa lamang? Nagpapakita lamang ito na hindi nagiging patas ang pagpapatupad ng SSL. Ang pagpapatupad ng isang batas ay hindi para sa iilan, ito ay naglalayo para sa ikakabuti at ikakaunlad ng karamihan. Sa kasalukayan, kung saan hindi maikakaila na ang pera ang nagpapagalaw sa araw-araw, ang pagkakaroon ng sapat na sahod ay pinakakailanganin ng lahat.

Ngunit tanong ng karamihan, gaano nga ba ka sapat ang sapat na?

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF JOHN B. LACSON FOUNDATION MARITIME UNIVERSITY (MOLO), INC. | VOL.26 NO.1 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

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JBLFMU-M: Defying Odds

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VOL.26 NO.1 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

s, Embodying Excellence

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OPINYON

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Iloilo City: Pagkakaisa laban sa pandemya

Mairshmallow Mdpwn. Mairel A. Gerzon mairel11gerzon@gmail.com

“Walang hamon sa buhay na hindi malalampasan kung lahat ay nagkakaisa at nagtutulungan”

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ahit mahigpit na ipinatutupad ang mga “safety health protocols” sa mga pampublikong lugar, patuloy pa ring tumataas ang bilang ng mga may kaso ng COVID 19 sa Pilipinas. Dahil dito, kinakailangang higpitan ang pagpapatupad ng ng naturang

panuntunan. Kaugnay nito, hindi maiwasan ang pagkakaroon ng mga hindi pagkakaunawaan sa bawat isa. Ngunit, ang kalagayan at kung anong mayroon ang isang lugar ay sumasalamin sa kung ano uri ng pamamahala ang ginagawa isang lider.

Ang lungsod ng Iloilo ay isa sa mga unang lungsod na isinailalim ang sarili sa estado ng lockdown. Sinara nito ang mga hangganan nito noong Marso 20, o limang araw lamang matapos ang utos ng Malacañang na ipatupad ang enhance community quarantine sa mga komunidad sa Metro Manila at sa kabuuan Luzon.Ayon kay Treñas, ang city hall ay nakatanggap ng humigit-kumulang na PhP15 milyon na halaga ng mga donasyon mula sa mga sako ng bigas hanggang mga de-lata at iba pang mga pack ng pagkain, at ang lahat ay inilaan para sa community kitchens na ipinamamahagi sa lungsod at mga barangay. Bawat lingo ang lungsod ay nag-organisa ng mga community kitchen, na gumagawa ng humigit-kumulang na 1.9 milyong pagkain. Isang mobile na kusina, na tinawag na “kitchen patrol,” ang nagbabahagi ng mga pagkain sa bawat lugar sa lungsod.

Ngunit sa kabila ng lahat ng mga ipanapatupad na programa ng alkalde, nakakatanggap pa din ito ng mga pambabatikos tulad ng pag-aakusa ni Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro “Teddy Boy” Locsin Jr., na namumulitika ang alkalde at sinisisi ang mga residente dahil sa pagtaas ng mga kaso sa COVID-19 ngunit nilinaw ng alkalde sa isang pahayag na hindi

niya sinisisi ang mga residente at nilinaw na responsibilidad ng pamahalaan ang pagtaas ng mga kaso ng COVID-19.

Hindi din maitatanggi na sa kabila ng mga ipanapatupad na batas upang masigurado na nasusunod ang mga safety health protocols ng lungsod, marami pa rin ang nga taong hindi sumusunod dito. Ngunit kahanga-hanga din ang naging hakbang ng lungsod na sa halip na pagbayarin ng multa ang mga lumalabag, sila ay pinagtatrabaho o pinaglilinis sa Diversion Road upang mapanatili ang kagandahan ng lungsod sa kabila ng pandemya.

Ang istilo ng pamumuno ni Treñas at paraan sa pagtugon sa kasalukuyang krisis ay nagbigaydaan upang siya ay umani ng suporta sa loob at sa labas ng kanyang pinamumunuan at maging kilala ang lungsod. Ang tinaguriang Wakanda ng Pilipinas, gayunpaman, ay hindi naitayo sa isang araw. Hindi rin ito maaaring dahil sa isang tao lamang, “Kung may isang bagay na natutunan ako tungkol sa pamamahala at pamumuno, ito ay kung nag-iisa hindi ko magagawa ang lahat ngunit kasama ng lahat sa pamayanan, lahat sa lungsod, maraming bagay ang maaari nating gawin,” sabi ni Mayor Jerry Treñas.

Pagkatapos ng hindi kukulangin na apat na taon ng pangalanan ng presidente ang lungsod bilang “Shabulized City”, ang kilalang City of Love ay muli na namang nakilala ngunit sa pagkakataong ito ay sa positibong kadahilanan—”The Wakanda of the Philippines.”

Taong 2021: Bagong mundo pagkatapos ng COVID-19?

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iyanig ng takot at pinuno ng pangamba ang buong mundo sa hindi inaasahang mabilis at pangmalawakang pagkalat ng nakamamatay na virus sa sanlibutan. Bawat araw, mas lalong tumataas pa ang paglobo ng mga t aong nagpositibo sa COVID-19 at mar ami na rin ang mga nait alang binawian ng buhay.

Ito ay walang pinipiling bansa, nasyonalismo, lahi, kasarian, edad at pananampalat aya- lahat ng buhay ay nasa panganib kaya ito’y nagbunga ng pagkabahala sa puso ng bawat isa.

Gayunpaman, ang ating Pang. Duterte ay nangangako sa sambayanang Pilipino na sa pagpatak ng taong 2021 ay mayroon na tayong bakuna laban sa COVID-19, pinangalanan nila itong “Sputnik Five” na nilikha ng bansang Russia.

Ika pa niya, magpapabakuna siya sa harap ng publiko bilang kaunaunahang mamayanan na babakunahan dito sa Pilipinas sa gagawing clinical trial tests. Sa katunayan, mariin din

Makabayang Pilipina Jessiea B. Flores

floresjessiea@gmail.com

“Maraming aspeto ng buhay ang binago ng taong 2020 ngunit sabay tayong babangon sa bagong ako, ikaw, at mundo.”

niyang inihayag na malaki ang tiwala niya sa bansang Russia kung kaya’t ang magiging resulta ay maayos pagkatapos siyang mabakunahan, sinisigurado niyang ligtas ito upang

ibakuna rin sa ating lahat. Sana ay mas suriin at pag-aralan pang mabuti ang bakuna na kanilang ituturok sa sanlibutan dahil maraming buhay ang nakataya rito. Lahat ay umaasa at naniniwala, na ito ang natatanging solusyon upang magbalik ang lahat sa normal at makaahon ulit tayong mga Pinoy mula sa sunod-sunod na mga dagok na ating nararanasan sa kasalukuyan.

Ano nga ba ang bagong mundong naghihintay kapag natapos na ang pandemya? Taong 2021 man o sa susunod pang mga taon, panalangin nating lahat ay maging tunay na ligtas na tayo. Sana ay bumalik na rin ang dating sigla ng mga mamamayang Pilipino at masilayan ulit ang matatamis na ngiti sa labi ng bawat isa, na ngayon ay natatabunan pa ng face shield at facemask. Sabaysabay tayong magsisimula na naman sa una, nang wala na sa puso natin ang takot at pangamba sapagkat puno na ito nang nag-uumapaw na pag-asa.

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF JOHN B. LACSON FOUNDATION MARITIME UNIVERSITY (MOLO), INC. | VOL.26 NO.1 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

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JBLFMU PASSES 2ND SURVEILLANCE AUDIT

BY MDPN. NIÑO REY V. LLEGUE AND MDPWN. FRANZCHRYSLER MARIE C. DELGADO

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ith its commitment in maintaining the effectiveness of its Quality Management System (QMS), John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) passed the Bureau Veritas (BV) ISO 9001: 2015 Surveillance Audit, October 5 to 7, 2020.

The main objective of the Audit is to verify the effectiveness of the whole management systems considering its internal and external changes, system’s continual relevance, and applicability to the scope of certification.

“The 2nd surveillance Audit of Bureau Veritas had been successful in the part of the school since no

major or minor non-conformity had been issued to the school,” Engr. Edmundo Q. Pragados, Quality Assurance Manager, said.

The audit focused on the following departments within the institution such as the Head Office/ Office of the CEO, John B. Lacson Foundation Training Center (JBLF TC), and JBLFMU Arevalo wherein, it started with an opening meeting virtually with the members of the institution’s top management that includes the academe and the administration.

“There are no physical preparations for the Audit since the auditors did not come to our school, and the audit was done virtually. What we did is to prepare all the documents in soft copies to be shared on screen to the auditors during the course of the Audit.” Dr. Pragados added.

Furthermore, the second day’s audit focused on JBLFMU Arevalo wherein the Head Office/ Office of the CEO was the last round of the audit on the third day and was capped off with a virtual meeting.

According to Engr. Pragados the highlight of the audit is in the closing meeting wherein the auditors announced the findings of the Audit which includes the non-conformities, observations, opportunity for improvements, and noteworthy effort found during the course of the Audit.

Moreover, BV is the leading certification body that ensures the institutions in complying with the international and local regulations and requirements and JBLFMU has been getting its system accreditation since 2009.

900 Student Grantees, JBLFMU-CES` Recipients of Educational Supplies

BY MDPWN. RENGEE GWYNETH BALDEVISO AND MDPN.FRANKLIN KYLES MATRICULAR

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pholding the academe’s corporate social responsibility and strengthening its practice of volunteerism, John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU) in partnership with Educational Research and Development Assistance (ERDA) through the Community Extension Services (CES) extended help to 900 student beneficiaries from Guimaras, Iloilo, and Antique as they receive a set of educational supplies, October 14-23.

Among the 900 ERDA student beneficiaries, 454 of them came from Guimaras, 253 from Iloilo, and 193 from Antique. Barangay Igang, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras has the greatest number of student beneficiaries, with a total of 63, while, Sitio Pantad, Barangay Igcalawan, Tobias Fornier, Antique has the least, with 29 beneficiaries.

“On behalf of my Brgy., Brgy. Sooc, Arevalo, we would like to thank you for your undying support for us for more than 15 years. More power and God bless you all”, Hazel Nopueto, one of the ERDA parents, and a resident of Brgy. Sooc, Arevalo said.

Furthermore, the importance of health, safety, and decontamination protocol were discussed in an orientation that only the invited parents and barangay officials were able to receive the supplies during the said event and to avoid less contact

and the spread of COVID-19. Also, minimum health standards and safety protocols were properly observed during the distribution.

“This current pandemic is indeed a big challenge for the JBLFMU community especially for the CES project implementors, volunteers and partners since we will have a limited outreach activities and face to face interactions with our partner communities.

But rest assured that we will continue to be of help and catalysts in our own little ways without compromising the health and safety of the institution, volunteers, partners and communities” Ms. Krizna Joy C. Belencion, JBLFMU-Molo CES Officer said.

Inaddition,theJBLFMU-CESinpartnership with ERDA Foundation are still committed to promoting quality education, thus, extended its help to their community partners wherein there are 19 barangays from Guimaras, Iloilo, and Antique for the School Year 2020-2021 that were given the supplies.

For this school year (S.Y. 2020-2021), JBLFMU-Molo Unit has identified a total of 127 ERDA student recipients coming from Brgy.Trapiche Oton, Iloilo, Brgy.Sooc Arevalo, Iloilo City and Brgy.Agboy Leon, Iloilo.

VOLUNTEERISM. Photos were taken during the distribution of school supplies in Brgy. Magamay, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras. ■ Photo by JBLFMU-Corporate Social Responsibility Facebook Page

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF JOHN B. LACSON FOUNDATION MARITIME UNIVERSITY (MOLO), INC. | VOL.26 NO.1 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

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Drs. Alimen, Eleperia recieve 2020 TOME award

BY SHAIRA A. AGREGADO AND JESSIEA B. FLORES

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ohn B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Molo (JBLFMU-M) faculty Dr. Ronaldo Alimen, Unit Research Coordinator and Dr. Ma. Elena Eleperia, Principal of the Basic Education Department bestowed pride to the university as they received their Plaques of Recognition as one of the recipients of Ten Outstanding Maritime Employees (TOME) 2020 at Diversion 21 Hotel, Iloilo City, October 29.

According to Dr. Alimen, few are only chosen to become the captain, and also to be an outstanding maritime employee in the maritime industry. That is why he is privileged to receive this award and be awarded among all the aspiring professionals and employees of our nation.

With the theme, “Sustainable Shipping for a Sustainable Planet” wherein the main purpose is to provide an opportunity to raise an awareness of the United Nations’ (UN) goals of promoting the economic growth through employment opportunities and decent work, inclusive and sustainable industrialization, fostering innovation, and conservation

to be able to have this award as my achievement. All my efforts and active responses have been recognized by the MARINA (Maritime Industry Authority) and I want to share this achievement to my fellow faculty members, to the administration of the university and to the Lacsonian students,” Dr. Alimen added.

Moreover, in accordance with the weeklong celebration that is hosted by Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA), the National Maritime Week (NMW) enjoins all professional member states from all over the Philippines to unitedly collaborate in aiming their focus attention on the importance of maritime safety, security, and environmental protection as their long-standing endeavor and the event showcases the work that the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and its member states are undertaking to achieve TRIUMPH. From left; Dr. Ronaldo Alimen and Dr. Ma. Elena Eleperia after the awarding ceremony. particularly their important targets ■ Photo by John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University - Molo (JBLFMU-Molo) despite the occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic. in the sustainable use of oceans and Furthermore, both of the awardees resources here in the Philippines. received a letter of recommendation from “I feel very happy because I represented the JBLFMU-Molo. And also, the JBLFMU’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), somehow, I feel honored and thankful Dr. Ronald Raymond Sebastian.

Estalogo joins boses ng Marino Online Challenge

BY MDPWN. MA. HEATHER BACERA AND ROSE ANTONETTE RAMOS

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n line with this year’s 25th National Seafarer’s day celebration, John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University Molo’s Mdpn Chris Alden Estalago of BSMar-E participated in the Boses ng Marino Online Challenge, September 21.

With the theme “Seafarers are Keyworkers. You are not alone. You are not forgotten” The Boses ng Marino Karaoke Challenge was administered online Due to covid-19 pandemic. There were three sessions for the online jamming,

on September 21 it was aired over The Baywatch Live of Asian Institute of Maritime Studies (AIMS) and at Bill Visaya News Channel on September 23- 25.

“It was nerve racking for me as I represent the John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University – Molo Inc. but when I started singing I felt more confident as I know that there are supporters from my families, friends and co-students and even the faculty and staff of the school who believed in my talent.” Mdpn. Estalogo said.

“At first I thought that singing is just happening when I hear a song play. But little did I know that I could show it off to the social media. The audience there is endless from the once you know up to the ones

whom have the access to the internet.

Sir Roque Magsipoc, the Choir Master of Kinaadman Chorlae contacted me about the said event and I said yes immediately.

That’ why if you we’re given chance to showcase your talent then Go because it’s a great experience at the same time to develop your skills” He added.

Moreover, The National Seafarer’s Day coincides with the National Maritime Week celebrated every last week of September spearheaded alternatively by the government agencies Maritime Industry Authority (Marina), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF JOHN B. LACSON FOUNDATION MARITIME UNIVERSITY (MOLO), INC. | VOL.26 NO.1 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

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JBLFMU-M DORMITORY: ABODE FOR DISCIPLINED SCHOLAR CADETS

BY MDPWN. ERICA F. OPINION AND MDPWN. MAIREL A. GERZON

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he dorm life is not like throwing a party oftentimes, drinking beers and smoking cigars freely late at night, a scenario that comes first in our mind when we talk about living in a dormitory.

College journey may be our first taste of freedom- from parental control, use of gadgets, and daily habits; for some but not in the lives of Lacsonian scholar cadets.

It was in the year 2014 when the second home for the scholar cadets of John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University- Molo was officially established under the supervision of 2nd Lieutenant Nerie S. Tutor as the Dorm Master.

“Umpisa akong pumasok dito 2014, nandito na ito, this is the school room buildings and then the cadets were decided to transfer in the main campus and then ginawa na nila itong dormitory sa mga scholar cadets,” 2nd Lt. Tutor said.

The school dormitory is intended to accommodate male scholar cadets and regular students coming from different provinces with the aim to instill right behavior and to develop the abilities of the cadets which focus on one of the university’s core values-- discipline.

required to stay in the dormitory for one year without going back to their respective families.

2nd Lt. Tutor also emphasized that the dormitory also serves as the second home and training ground for the scholar cadets wherein he strictly implemented the rules and regulations especially on the vices such as drinking alcoholic drinks, EMBODYING DISCIPLINE. School cadets undergoing morning inspection before smoking cigars and going to their respective class. ■ Photo by Mdpn. June Famur Jr. too much use of gadgets.

According to 2nd Lt. Tutor , the cadets are Moreover, the dormitory building trained to be disciplined through conducting a daily routine which includes physical has seven rooms wherein each room can conditioning, proper eating etiquette and accommodate 16 cadets and last semester whenever a cadet has committed a violation there were a total of 112 cadets in the he will be undergoing a penalty and will be dormitory.

Living in a dormitory is not always about reported directly to the Student Affairs and living your life as what you want to be; reality Services Office.

Furthermore, scholar cadets are strictly is, you will spend more time with your studies, prohibited from going out of the dormitory being responsible and disciplined in every without permission from the dorm master way-- a trademark that Lacsonians are known while all freshmen scholar cadets are to be.

Lacsonians celebrates 25th National Seafarers Day

BY ROSE ANTONETTE A. RAMOS

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ith the aim to honor the raging enthusiasm of the seafarers amidst the global pandemic, John B Lacson Foundation Maritime University Molo Inc., (JBLFMU-M) in the virtual webinar celebrating the 25th National Seafarers Day, September 27, 2020.

With the theme, “Protecting Seafarers: An essential pillar in Sustainable shipping”, students and alumni of JBLFMU-M witnessed the commemoration of the said event. Likewise, the activities, spearheaded by The Apostleship of the Sea

(AOS) – Manila along with MARINA and PCG, were done through Facebook live streams and webinars.

Moreover, the efforts of Stella Maris in caring for the seafarers, the fishermen, and their families were highlighted through the realization of these activities despite the ongoing health crisis throughout the world and in the Philippines.

“The grandiose plans all changed because of this pandemic, but since Filipinos are resilient and innovative, everything became virtual,” Mr. Raymund Benedick R. Brillantes said.

Meanwhile, a Memorial Rite of Remembrance Ecumenical Service was streamed live via Facebook by the Philippine Coast Guard and an online singing challenge tagged as “Boses ng Marino” was aired. A webinar was also held in the celebration of World Maritime Day. Also, Most Reverend Broderick S. Pabillo commemorated the holy mass which was streamed live through the FB Page of TV Maria to honor the workers in the shipping industry who were vigorous even in this time of the pandemic.

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF JOHN B. LACSON FOUNDATION MARITIME UNIVERSITY (MOLO), INC. | VOL.26 NO.1 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

VOLUME 26 NUMBER 1

SPORTS COLUMN

SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020

Pilipinong Atleta: Laban ni Juan, laban ng lahat

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sang matunog na palakpakan at masayang hiyawan ng pagpupugay ang karaniwang naririnig ng isang matagumpay na manlalaro. Subalit, sa likod pala ng tagumpay ay may nakatagong isang mapait na karanasan, bagay na ayaw na nilang balikan. Makailang ulit mang madapa, masugatan, at mapilayan, hinding hindi susuko sa anumang laban, datapwa`t dugo`t pawis ang puhunan na mas lalo pang nagpatibay sa kanilang katawan para malampasan ang mga hamon at mga balakid na sumukat sa kanilang katatagan. Yan ang atletang Pinoy, walang inuurungang laban.

Apat na atleta ay kwalipikado nang lumahok sa Tokyo Olympics at ang natitirang 82 ay naghihintay na lamang ng pagpapayag ng Inter Agency Task Force (IATF) para sa muling pagpapatuloy ng pagsasanay na kakailanganin sa international multispor t event na tinatayang matutuloy na sa buwan ng Hulyo taong 2021 ayon sa mga nag-organisa ng palaro mula sa Tokyo at ng International Olympic Committee (IOC) batay na rin alinsunod sa pag-iwas sa COVID-19.

Hindi paman nagsisimula ang kompetisyon, pero para sa mga sumusuporta at naniniwala sa ating mga atleta, sila ay isa nang kampyeon sapagkat buhis buhay silang nagpakahirap, gumugol ng maraming oras para makapag-ensayo sa mas lalong pang lakas ng katawan at para rin makapagbigay ng magandang laban at ng karangalan sa bayan.

Mahalaga para sa bawat atleta ang suporta ng buong Pilipino, lalong lalo na ang ating pamahalaan nang sa gano`y lalo pa nilang pagbubutihin ang pag-eensayo na mag papalakas ng kanilang loob na maiuwi ang unang gintong medalya ng Pilipinas sa Tokyo Olympic Games. Sa kabilang banda, sinisigurado ng mga opisyal ng

jaCOOL Mdpn. Franklin Kyles M. Matricular franklinkylesmatricular@gmail.com

...madapa’t masugatan man, tuloy parin ang karera ng buhay.

LABAN LANG!...

Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) at ng Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) na buo ang kanilang suporta para sa pinansyal na kakailanganin at mga programa para sa paghahanda ng mga atletang Pinoy na sasabak sa Tokyo Olympics.

Bukod pa rito, kung maabot ang numerong higit sa 38 atletang Pinoy na makapasok sa Tokyo Olympics, ito na marahil ang ikalawang pinakamalaking delegasyon ng bansa sa quadrennial Olympiad matapos ang 47 atleta noong 1964 na ginanap sa Tokyo, Japan din kung saan nakamit ng bansa ang unang silver medal mula kay Anthony Villanueva sa feather weight division ng boxing. Nagpapatunay lamang ito na ang galing, talino at lakas ng ating mga atleta ay nagmumula sa bawat palakpak at hiyaw ng mga Pilipino at ng walang humpay na supor ta ng gobyerno para mag patuloy at maiuwi ang inaasam-asam na tagumpay.

Alinsunod sa pangako ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duter te, ang

Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) ay naglaan ng mahigit P100 milyon para pondohan ang preparasyon ng mga atletang Pinoy na naghahangad ng Olympic slots. Sa ngayon, sina pole vaulter EJ Obiena, gymnasts Carlos Yulo at boxers Irish Magno at Eumir Marcial pa lamang ang nakakuha ng slots sa Tokyo Olympic Games.

Tunay ngang mahalaga ang buong supor ta ng bawat isa, ng gobyerno pati ang mga pribadong sektor ng lipunan para sa ating mga atleta. Hindi ko alintana na ang bawat pasakit ng ating mga atleta, ang pagkadapa, at pagkatalo bagkus ay mas lalo pa nilang pinaghuhusay para mabigyan ng karangalan ang bansa. Di alintana na sa bawat pagsulong sa laban ng mga atleta ay dala parin nila ang pananalig sa Poong Maykapal. Sana lang sa paglipas ng panahon ay bigyan pansin ng pamahalaan ang mga atletang sa mga kanayunan at mga eskwelahan dahil dito nagmumula ang mga bagong Manny Pacquiao, Sonny Jaworski at Lydia de Vega ng ating henerasyon.

Gayunpaman, para sa ating mga atleta, lagi niyong pakatandaan na sa bawat tagumpay na inyong natamasa, ay may kaakibat na malaking responsibilidad na nakaatay sa inyong balikat. Maging isang magandang halimbawa sa lahat, walang inaapakang tao, bagkos itaguyod ang tinapakang Lupang Sinilangan na hinamak ng iba.

Maituturing na ang mga Pilipino sa larangan nang isports ay palaban.

Itanim sa puso`t isipan na bilang isang atleta dapat handa ka sa anumang hamon sa buhay, ibibigay at ibibigay ang makakaya, hinding hindi susuko hanggang hindi pa tapos ang laban.

Subalit, huwag mangarap sa laro para lang makapahamak ng kapwa.

Mangarap na may layuning iangat ang bawat isa dahil ang laban ni Juan, ay laban nating lahat.

THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF JOHN B. LACSON FOUNDATION MARITIME UNIVERSITY (MOLO), INC. | VOL.26 NO.1 | SEPTEMBER - NOVEMBER 2020