TAHIP Newsletter - September to October Issue

02|EDITORIAL

Tahip THE SOIL TILLER THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF BULACAN AGRICULTURAL STATE COLLEGE

EDITORIAL BOARD AND STAFF 2020-2021 Lanch Lenard C. Delos Santos Editor-in-Chief/ Sports Editor Bianca Gail D.C. Gonzales Associate Editor/ News Editor

Marcos: The Greatest-- An idiocy continues to revolve around foolish people.

His nearly 21-year regime as the president will never be forgotten. Him being quoted as the best President that the Philippines ever had is one of the most ridiculous yet unlaughable gag in the history of politics. The tenth President of the Republic of the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos – the authoritarian, the dictator, the unjust.

Pro-Marcos supporters continue to shower themselves with notions that the rise of many infrastructures delivered his success, that the Philippines was amongst the richest during the “Golden era”, and that it was safer in the country during the martial law. In fact, everything was out of foreign debt and taxed until now, the official rate of poverty increased, and many lives were taken away.

The Marcos’ administration lacked transparency. Never forget that it forced to shut down large TV networks and made the people believe that there was no anomaly.

As he was aware that media and criticism is so powerful, Marcos took over by shutting the voices of the oppressed. The battle between the government and the press fighting for their freedom never ceased to an end. Countless media attacks were recorded during the Marcos’ era, the press people strived but they were tied, having their lives at line.

The martial law was not in any way safe. Never forget that people

were tortured, detained, and killed without due process.

After Marcos signed Proclamation No. 108, an order to takeover and control all newspapers, magazines, radio, and even television facilities took place as he mandated the Letter of Instruction No. 1, which was a direct, yet filtered attack to the media.

As we look over the traces of this doomed era of the fought over the autonomy, the new Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), and the Muslim separatist movement of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) were quoted as alleged threats of communist insurgency. But were those reasonable enough to declare Martial Law? Anything not stated was the story to read between the lines.

Professor Xiao Chua, historian from the De La Salle University mentioned that the most obvious reason why Marcos signed Martial Law was to extend his term.

...his regime stays into this age as succeeding presidents gradually cope up with the late dictator’s pace”

In another statement given by the investigation of Amnesty International, a respected human rights organization, it showed that there were more than 70,000 jailed, 34,000 tortured and 3,240 people who were killed during the implementation of martial law.

If those numbers did not concern anybody, there should be something wrong about their morality.

Those were mere numbers of Marcos’s reek. For every single person tortured, imagine the pain of how he begged for his life and how he screamed before he died.

De facto, this President that the Philippines once had literally made something. To fool a sheep is to show them where the grass is. He is a fools-gold – something that cannot be identified by a non-trained eye.

A mirage – that keeps the mind of his supporters full of hallucinations.

They are blinded by too much light, obstructing the truth thru rays of deceit. His demise does not mark the death of the billions he snipped from the Filipinos, his regime stays into this age as succeeding presidents gradually cope up with the late dictator’s pace, and its countrymen drowned in trillions of debt.

To claim that Marcos is the unsurpassed president that the country ever had, being committed into substantial corruption is indeed, willful absurdity, if not, purposive ignorance.

Ferdinand Emmanuel Edralin Marcos: The Greatest--Kleptocrat. **

Lloydd Dafydd R. San Pedro Managing Editor for Administration/ Head Photojournalist Melanie N. Hizon Managing Editor for Finance/ Literary Editor Raphael G. Policarpio Managing Editor for Circulations/ Layout Editor Princes Josephine B. Latuja News Editor Elijah M. Mangulabnan Rand Cristian S. Hagad Features Editors Ashley P. Pangilinan Nathaniel B. Hizon DevComm Editor Alexis S. Caadan Literary Editor Reynaldo A. Gumabon Sports Editor Dean Daniel A. Mempin Head Graphic Artist Jayson A. Ocampo Joshua N. Castillo John Marf C. Gumafelix Senior Staffers Angelo A. Dela Cruz Jocelle Lyn Bernabe Mark Joshua D.S. Sunga Junior Writers Carol P. Baguisa Junior Graphic Artist Aileen S. Masong Junior Layout Artist Maria Arjie T. Domingo, MA Adviser

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ENDING QUIRIES. BASC-OSAS supplies new students of the college with knowledge to end the queries and address their concerns through a virtual orientation. Photo | BASC-SWSU facebook page.

OSAS accommodates new studes; facilitates online orientation PAULO A. AMBROCIO (Contributor) TRYING to cater the concerns and answer the queries of the freshmen and transferees, Bulacan Agricultural State College’s Office of Student Affairs and Services together with the Student Welfare Services Unit orchestrated a virtual orientation, September 2.

The annual orientation usually conducted at the multipurpose gymnasium of the college was performed through the use Facebook Live.

Questions with regards to the designated courses of the students and concerns about the new mode of learning flooded the comment section of the live video.

The concerns were addressed but were not immediately resolved as the Office of the Registrar still worked on the official lists of students. Mr. Herbert Anthony V. Roberto, Head of SWS Unit assured to schedule another session to clarify concerns with the Office of the Registrar.

Infographics and posters about the college mission, vision, offered courses, and the officers of

the Supreme Student Council were presented.

Christian Jay D. Porciuncula, Interim President of Supreme Student Council encouraged the students to be hopeful despite being unable to stay at the college premises.

“Hindi niyo man

masilayan ang BASC darating din ang takdang panahon tayo’y mamamalagi na rin sa ating sintang dalubhasaan,” he said.

Moreover, Dr. Jameson H. Tan, SUC President III mentioned updates on the conversion of the College to a University. “I’m glad to inform

you that BASC, the House Bill ordered by our honorable Congresswoman Lorna Silverio has passed the committee level of the passage of the proposed bill on the conversion of BASC into Bulacan Agricultural State University,” Dr. Tan said. **

No synchronous learning; VP AA responds to studes plea BIANCA GAIL D.C. GONZALES IN response to the request of the Supreme Student Council (SSC) to suspend synchronous classes, the Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Cecilia Santiago issued Memorandum No. 23 s. 2020, September 25.

Stated in the memorandum was the shift from synchronous to asynchronous mode of learning from September 26 to 30 due to emergency maintenance on internet services of

PLDT.

SSC Interim President Christian Jay Porciuncula said that they submitted a request for suspension of synchronous mode of learning for the said dates to the Office of the Vice President for Academic Affairs due to the demand of the studentry.

“Masaya naman ako personally na napagbigyan ‘yong request namin. Kahit papano ay nakabawas sa intindihin ng

mga estudyante ‘yong real-time activities, virtual class or video conference,” Porciuncula said.

PLDT announced emergency maintenance activities on September 23 that will last 8:00 am of September 25 until 5:00 pm of September 30. Despite announcing that there will be no disturbance on the connection of their customers, slow internet connectivity was still experienced. **

04|NEWS

Tahip Dr. Guillen shares expertise on VACW MARK JOSHUA D.S. SUNGA

PHOTO | BASC-SWSU facebook page

SWSU fortifies BASC studes SOGIE awareness MELANIE N. HIZON ENGAGING the youth of Bulacan Agricultural State College to cognizance and acceptance on the concept of Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity and Expression, Bulacan Agricultural State College’s Students Welfare and Services Unit (SWSU) steered a webinar with the theme: “The Rainbow Connection: Explaining SOGIE to Newbies”, September 25.

Dr. Salvacion L. Villafuerte, RPm, RPsy of Bicol University College of Social Sciences and Philosophy served as the resource speaker and discussed the basic SOGIE concepts, definition of LGBT, SOGIE Equality Bill, LGBT stereotypes, and homophobia.

“Being a lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender, hindi po iyan sakit, this is part of human diversity. But when we say homophobia, that is actually a type of phobia or it could be under anxiety disorder,” Villafuerte said. “Homophobia has a cure, and that is education,” she further added.

Meanwhile, Paulo V. Ambrocio, Bachelor of Science in Geodetic Engineering 1A student, shared that he found the webinar not only informative, but also on eye-opening because a lot of people has misconceptions about SOGIE. He said, “They thought when we say SOGIE it is just pertaining about LGBT Community, but having such webinar, this enlightened those people with wrong interpretations of SOGIE.”

“We should respect human whether they are straight or from LGBT Community. No one deserves to be treated like they are living in a wrong way. Each one of us have different interpretation of ourselves. We should accept and respect,” Ambrocio said.

On the other hand, Dr. Villafuerte reminded the students to be mindful of their comments especially when posting on social media platforms to avoid violating the rights of the LGBT. **

“PANGALAGAAN at ipaglaban ang karapatan ng pamilyang Pilipino,” Dr. Lino Fe A. Guillen, professor from Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) stressed out during the seminar on VAWC themed “Huwag Po!: Understanding Violence Against Women and Children” via Facebook Live, September 25.

Dr. Guillen focused on the 10 myths and reality regarding VAWC and mentioned that 8 out of 10 young women including their parents experienced domestic violence. According to her, solving prevalent cruelty against abusive intimate partners or even live-in

partners in this society was the main purpose R.A. 9262 - Act Defining Violence Against Women and their Children.

“Ang mga taong higit sa 18 taong gulang na walang kakayahang ipagtanggol ang sarili o may problema sa pag-iisip ay maaari ding matawag na menor de edad,” she added.

More so, Dr. Guillen presented the procedure in filing a criminal case under the jurisdiction of Republic Act 9262 which involved the of four types of violence; the physical violence; sexual violence; psychological violence; and the economic abuse. **

PHOTO | Bianca Gail Gonzales

STEMS offers Google Apps seminar; helps studes adjust to new normal BIANCA GAIL D.C. GONZALES WITH the aim of helping the students of Bulacan Agricultural State College adjust with the new mode of learning, Science, Technology, Environment and Mathematics Society (STEMS) organized a 2-day Comprehensive Training on Google Apps for Students, via Google Meet, September 19-20.

Pamela Clemente, STEMS Treasurer and the resource speaker shared her knowledge on the applications used for e-learning. The event came to life as the organization

together with Clemente thought of something to help the students with the current system of education. “So I came up with the idea of a comprehensive training on Google Apps as these are mostly used in online classes and schoolworks,” Clemente said.

The event was a success and Clemente also expressed her intent to conduct other webinars during an interview. “I would like to focus more on English grammar and the like. While I’m looking >> pg. 05

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PHOTO | BASC-SWSU facebook page

SWSU stresses health care during pandemic; organizes health webinar REYNALDO A. GUMABON IN line with the crisis due to pandemic, Office of Student Affairs and Services-Social Welfare Services Unit spearheaded a webinar themed “Achieve! Self-care and Healthy Lifestyle in Time of Coronavirus”, September 25 via Facebook Live.

The webinar aimed to distribute information relative to the students to attain healthy lifestyle during this pandemic.

Rosemay B. Briones from Bulacan State University served as the resource speaker of the said webinar. She discussed the common responses of people affected by Covid19 pandemic, the impact of the long-term stress to the body, and ways to deal with stress.

“One of the major objectives of this webinar is to understand the concept and importance of self-care and healthy lifestyle, engage in self-care and wellness activities, and create a personal strategy to cope up with stress,” Briones said.

During her discussion, Prof. Briones mentioned that feeling sad, distressed or worried during the crisis is normal, but maintaining a healthy lifestyle is more important. She emphasized the six dimensions of wellness according to the National Wellness Institute (US) i.e. physical, emotional, intellectual/cognitive, spiritual, social, and occupational wellness.

“You have to divert your stress on things that you do before to make you feel happy,” she added.

Meanwhile, Jerylou Aringo, BSHM 1B, a participant during the webinar said that she had realized the importance of being healthy in this time of pandemic.

“I’ve come to realize that even though I’m busy, I should take some time to make my body, not just physically healthy but also mentally, spiritually, and emotionally. I’ve realized that I should not be lazy about keeping my body fit and healthy because that will be my only shield from the illnesses that COVID-19 can cause me,” she said.

Moreover, Prof. Briones reminded everyone that health is important; we have to manage our stressors and be good to ourselves. **

REPD continues to seek development amidst pandemic BIANCA GAIL D.C. GONZALES BULACAN Agricultural State College’s Research, Extension, Production and Development Office carried out the second part of its 18th Agency In-House Review of On-going Development or Extension Projects in coordination with Central Luzon Agriculture, Research and Development Consorium via Zoom Cloud Meeting App, September 9.

Seven on-going extension projects were scrutinized by the evaluators, Dr. Maria Teresa Valdez from Tarlac Agricultural University and Dr. Hermogenes Paguia from Bataan Peninsula State University.

The extension project Community Development Program (Capability Building/ Training/ Livelihood) was one of the event’s highlights and commended by Dr. Valdez stating that its concept was exceptional.

The said project intended to offer new farming technology and provided the Dumagats knowledge and skills in post-harvest technology. It aimed to establish a five-hectare demonstration farm to enhance the socio-economic status of the locals and install billboards on strategic location within Angat Watershed Reservation Area.

According to Dr. Josefina Mananguit, one of the researchers, the study was funded by the National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR) which took them a year in developing the proposal. “One year in the making po ang aming proposal.

Very meticulous ang taga-National Power Corporation,” Dr. Mananguit said.

The evaluators on the other hand suggested some modifications for the improvement of the extension projects presented in the event. **

from STEMS offers Google Apps...

for other ways on how to make all of it come to life, I’m also hoping that I could target the right audience,” she said.

She also advised the students to maximize the use of their mobile data and search for those that matters the most during this time. “Also, remember to always have the eagerness and

willingness to learn. Be reminded of your purpose and dreams. You are in the right place at just the right time,” she added.

Meanwhile, Rainiel Ivan Marie Tecson, STEMS President said that other than the seminar, their organization is steering up a quiz bee together with the League of Young Scientist (LYS). **

06|NEWS

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INSPIRING LEADERS. BASC-SDSU orchestrated a leadership training as they utilize the power of social media with the goal to create leaders that count. Photo | BASC-OSAS facebook page.

Zamora encourages student-leaders to manifest “Leadership that counts” BIANCA GAIL D.C. GONZALES

PHOTO | BASC-OSAS facebook page

PHOTO | BASC-OSAS facebook page

“Hindi lang tayo dapat isip nang isip...dapat we have the capacity to make it into a reality.” Resource speaker Michael Paulo R. Zamora said during the Leadership Training Webinar via Zoom Cloud Application, September 26.

With the theme “Leadership through Pandemic”, Bulacan Agricultural State College’s Student Development and Services Unit (BASC - SDSU) initiated the training to inspire the student leaders to keep the flame burning despite this pandemic.

Zamora entitled his discussion as the “Leadership that Counts: The Art of Effective Leadership” which comprised of the topics understanding Effective Leadership; Patterns of Effective Leadership; 5 Effective Leadership Styles; 10 Ways for Better Leadership; the LEADERSHIP that COUNTS; and Leaders are

Authorities with a Commission.

On his discussion, Zamora explained that leadership does not happen inside the campus only, but there were instances that you need to act as a leader sometime in your life. He further explained the characteristics of a good leader by simply saying “ang isang mabuting leader, tumatanggap ng kamalian.”

Meanwhile, Christian Jay Porciuncula, Interim President of SSC encouraged the student leaders to persevere despite the struggles and help each other to produce a better outcome while Mr. Luis Agusto Marcelo, from the Campus Life also served as a resource speaker during the webinar and talked about the different offerings of Campus Life, a servant leadership organization composed of youth leaders and professionals. **

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EQUPPING. BASC’s Quality Management System and Internal Quality Audit team started to gear up for the First Surveillance Visit through trainings. Photo | BASC QA Office

BASC gears up for First Surveillance Visit BIANCA GAIL D.C. GONZALES

IN preparation for the First Surveillance Visit of Bulacan Agricultural State College, the college’s Quality Management System and Internal Quality Audit Team led by Ms. Flerida D. Sayco took part on the twoday training on Risk-Based IQA at the Cayetano Hall, September 22-23.

The training included Risk-Based Internal Quality Audit, Capacity Building Program for IQA team, and Stress System Level IQA discussed by Engr.

Grace P. Daria of SHENDAR International Certifications.

Moreover, practical application of the said training to the college’s Risk Management Process was performed by the team under Engr.

Daria’s facilitation.

Last December 2019, BASC achieved the ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management Systems certification covering Research and Extension, and Instructions. **

IEd welcomes new batch of future educators, sets standards high R.C. HAGAD BULACAN Agricultural State College’s Institute of Education helped future educators be familiar with the college and institute’s policies, goals and objectives through the Online Orientation via Facebook live, September 24.

Office of Student Affairs and Services administered the institute orientation with the help of the IEd- Student Council (IEd-SC) themed: “Embrace the Teacher’s Tribe!”

“The primary reason of conducting the orientation per institute is that for the freshmen to be familiarized with the policies of the institute, and for them to meet and be familiarized with the faculty members of the institute,” Dr. Jennifer P. Adriano, Directress of OSAS’ Directress said.

Dr. Analiza A. Vendicacion, IEd Dean inspired the future educators with her

OFFICIALLY ON TEACHERS TRIBE. Institute of Education together with the OSAS hosted a virtual orientation to recognize and familiarize all the new future educators with the school policies. Photo courtesy of IEd Student Council facebook page.

opening remarks as she emphasized the impact of being a teacher.

“There are many ways you can make an impact in the world, but there is no greater impact that you can make by spreading education,” Dr. Vendicacion said.

IEd-SC collected concerns and queries of their fellow students and raised their concerns during the orientation.

“Yong ibang concerns po ay nasagot naman na rin po dati, pero mas malinaw ngayon ‘yong mga impormasyon. Lalo na po ‘yong tungkol sa pagpili kung modular

or online,” Sherina Jem C. San Mateo, IEd-SC Governor said.

Moreover, San Mateo stated that they might conduct another orientation for the institute, which aims to discuss the CBL of IEd-SC. **

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RESPONSIBLE. Institute of Engineering and Applied Technology - Student Council and faculty make an effort to teach the students on responsibly using the different online flatforms through series of webinars. Photo | IEAT-SC facebook page.

IEAT steers multipurpose webinar, braces students for responsible online platform use NATHANIEL B. HIZON WITH the combined effort of both faculty and Institute of Engineering and Applied Technology - Student Council, a “webity” was conducted with Mrs. Leah V. Indon from Institute of Management (IM), Engr. Alvin G. Quizon from (IEAT) and Ms. Analou Reyes from Office of Student Affairs Service as resource speakers.

The “webity” intended to raise awareness of the students toward the technicalities and problems encountered during flexible learning, basic automated computer-aided drafting (AutoCAD) for engineering students and mental health awareness via Facebook Live, October 12, 15 and 20.

Mrs. Indon discussed about social media etiquettes which circled within the proper behavior in piloting the accounts and emphasized on being responsible as well as to act as a

future professional.

The discourse also hit one of the most prominent online related issues about proper use of citation and plagiarism.

She elaborated the nature of citations and plagiarism and how to optimize learning during this pandemic.

She said, “The only purpose, we the teachers are not tolerating students to do such thing [plagiarism] is for us to assess you guys what you have understood.”

She also added that by being truthful, teachers could adjust their teaching approach depending on what the students have learned.

Engr. Quizon, during the 3-day seminar then imparted his knowledge in the utilization and the wonders of Auto-CAD for the IEAT’s aspiring Engineers, giving the fundamentals of the software used by today’s Engineers when it comes to drawing and design.

“You guys are blessed,

maswerte kayo kase mostly nowadays we used Auto CAD when it comes to Engineering Drawing---malaking bawas sa hirap niyo ‘to.” Engr. Quizon said.

Ms. Analou Reyes involved her audiences through an online game motivation that relieved some load because of the flexible learning scheme experienced by the IEAT students.

Altogether, multipurpose “webity” became an informative medium to educate the students with regards to the utilization of online tools for flexible learning specifically the Zoom Application--the most used application in the new normal setup.

“Malaking part po ang tulong ng students sa naganap pong seminars at sa magaganap pa po sa susunod,” IEAT Student Council Gov. Rose Anne Ramon said.

Even though there were loose-ends during the “webity” such as prominently poor internet connection and not every student of IEAT participated, the organizers – IEAT-SC and faculty members were still grateful for the success of the online seminar.

“Nagkalap po kami ng mga topic po na pwedeng gawing seminars para sa students at tinanong din po namin sila kung ano po yung sa tingin nila ang kailangan ngayong New Normal.

Then, yun po yung ginawa namin basehan para po maka isip at makapag conduct ng seminars.”

Ramon said whilst looking forward to immersing the students more on seminars that will help them in ongoing online classes.

Moreover, the continuation of the last part of the “webity” was moved to November 4. **

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SWSU holds drug awareness seminar for studes M. HIZON

HEALTHY MIND. OSAS - SWSU reminded the students using a webinar that Mental Health is important and should not be disregarded. Photo | BASC-SWSU facebook page.

OSAS-SWSU cares, intensifies mental health awareness JOCELLE LYN BERNABE “WHEN self-care did no longer help, then that is the time to ask support to other people,” Professor Lester G. Bautista, RGC said during the Mental Health Awareness Webinar via Facebook Live, October 29.

Bautista talked about the importance of mental health like how physical health is important.

“We can cope up with the normal stresses of life.

In reality, life is full of stress.

Sinasabi nga po na, if you’re not feeling stressed there is something wrong with you,” he said. In his discussion, he mentioned that stress and life go together, and being stressed is a normal reaction to specific situations.

Bautista added how obvious it was that everyone’s mental health is in crisis in this time of pandemic. The things that people do to make themselves better were limited and that we were not used in this kind of way of living.

Moreover, as Bautista explained some guidelines for attaining Mental Wellness by enumerating the main ideals such as how a person must change the

perspectives on life, change their lifestyle, find diversions, and have relaxation techniques.

Meanwhile, Head of Office of Student Affairs Service Student Welfare and Services Unit Mr. Herbert Anthony V. Roberto said, “the OSAS-SWSU is really aware that our students are really having a hard time for coping this issues and situation they are experiencing, kaya tama lang din na bigyan natin ng panahon upang sa ganoon ay matutunan natin ang kanilang pangangailangan.”

BASC-Supreme Student Council Interim President Christian Jay D.G. Porciuncula along with his officers posted an Online Kamustahan for BASC students in a Facebook group page to check the situation the students.

Upon checking the student’s response, the SSC noticed some students were having difficulties adjusting in this new mode of learning.

Bautista applauded the SWSU and SSC for having the initiative to conduct a mental Health Awareness Seminar.

More so, the webinar took the theme “Kaya Yan, ‘Kaw

AS a way of putting higher level of awareness and understanding among Bulacan Agricultural State College’s students on relevant issues and topics, Student Welfare and Services Unit headed a webinar with the theme “Bawal Tumawid, Nakamamatay: Crossing the Line into Drug Addiction”, October 23.

The participants of the said webinar were the Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness Management, Bachelor of Science in Geodetic Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering and Bachelor of Agriculture major in Animal Science students.

Mr. Herbert Anthony V. Roberto, SWSU’s Head, said that the webinar will help the students realize the importance of living in accordance with what is socially acceptable that will encourage them to live towards healthy lifestyle.

“Undoubtedly, ang drug addiction is also resulting to countless crime, na kaliwa’t kanang krimen na nangyayari.

Ito rin ay maaaring magresulta sa financial problem kasi nga kailangang suportahan ang kanilang bisyo at napababayaan ang kanilang family, and even what we call broken relationship,” Jennifer O. Serrano, RGC, resource speaker said as she explained the possible results of crossing the line of drug addiction.

Serrano presented the Statistics of drug users in the

Pa,” to give emphasis on the mental health of students amidst the Pandemic through the webinar.

For instance, Bautista flashed in screen some of the crisis hotlines listed as follows; Hopeline’s PH’s 24/7 Hotlines: 0917-558-4673 (globe) 0918-873-4673 (smart) 02-88044673 (pldt) 2919- (toll-free for globe and tm)

Philippines 2019 which states that according to Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB), there were 1.8 million drug users, and there were 4.8 million Filipinos who were reported having used illegal drugs at least once in their life.

“Using drugs can even lead you to your final destination,” Serrano said. “Always remember that you are given the highest will and the wisdom to know what is right, and the right thing to do is to say no to drugs,” she added.

Meanwhile, Victoria Cura, BSABEn 1A student, shared that the webinar was informational and factual. She realized that every action was counted, and if we smoke or use illegal drugs, there will be collateral damages.

“The comparison po ng mga pictures of damage and healthy organs enlighten me po na we shouldn’t really indulge ourselves with vices. Nalinawan din po ako about drug misuse, na kung gagamitin natin yung mga drugs sa ibang reason it can be harmful po sa atin. Natutunan ko din po na there are ways po to stop using drugs at may benefits po iyon,” Cura said.

Moreover, the resource speaker discussed the different forms and types of drugs, drug abuse, drug addiction, commonly abused drugs, reasons why people turn to drugs, reasons why we should avoid dangerous drugs, effects of drug abuse, common signs of drug abuse and where drugs will take people. **

Manila Lifeline Centre: Hotline: (02) 8969191 Hotline: 0917-854-9191 InTouch: Crisis Line +63 2 8893 7603 ++63917 800 1123 +63922 893 8944 There’s also a free online emotional support; Facebook page of Mental Health First Responder. **

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Studentry virtually applauds to BASC Faculty and Staff Awardees 2020 THE distinctive and outstanding service of the teaching and nonteaching personnel of Bulacan Agricultural State College was recognized as the Supreme Student Council (SSC) blazed a trail spearheading the first virtual BASC Faculty and Staff 2020 via Facebook Live, October 5.

Despite of technical difficulties due to untraditional way of conducting an event, SSC managed to wrap up the event auspiciously.

“Dahil unang beses namin gumamit ng live stream sa event, hindi naiwasan yung aberya.

Unang aberya ay yung matagal na pagrerender ng buong video kaya na-move ng 1 pm ang streaming.

Noong 1 pm naman, naputol ang livestream dahil sa ginamit naming tool na may maximum lamang na limang minuto.

Kaya nagpatulong na kami sa nakakaalam, kaya noong 2 pm ay itinuloy na ulit. Nagkaroon lamang ng kaunting aberya sa internet

connection noong una pero naging maayos naman ang kabuuang daloy ng programa,” Christian Jay Porciuncula, SSC Interim President, said.

He mentioned that Institute Student Councils and some Student Organizations assisted them in choosing the faculty and staff who were to be recognized as exemplary. He also said that they allotted budget for certificates and tokens for the teaching and non-teaching personnel awardees.

“Non-teaching personnel, like academic personnel, have also its huge impact in the attainment of BASC’s organizational goals, and considered to be one of the backbones in its success and instrumental in serving stakeholders BASC served,” Ronald Reagan T. Alonzo, Vice President for Administration, Finance and Business Affairs, said.

“Teachers, apart from academics, they stand by the

MELANIE N. HIZON

students every step to guide, motivate and inspire them to become better people. Likewise, non-teaching personnel, also take part in this endeavor by keeping the operation of the college going, and still providing services to its stakeholders even in this time of pandemic,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Natatanging Guro awardees were chosen by the students in each course/program, the Huwarang Kawani awardee was chosen according to his love for work, and the Huwarang Guro awardees were chosen by the students and graded according to the the criteria: 40% Kahusayan sa Pagtuturo, 30% Relasyon sa Magaaral, 20% Natatanging Karakter o Kakayahan bilang Guro at 10% Husay sa Larangan.

“It is worth it kasi hindi lang naman kami nagfunction as instructor, ang dami naming ginagawa beyond teaching.

Although, part of our jobs sacrificed family time kahit

Serrano affirms bullies need attention too, reshapes students’ perception BIANCA GAIL D.C. GONZALES “HINDI lang ‘yong mga biktima kundi pati ‘yong mga mismong bully merong pinagdadaanan na kailangan nating bigyan ng pansin,” stressed by Prof.

Jennifer O. Serrano, RGC. RPm during the “It Really Hurts… to be bullied. Stop Bullying: A Webinar on Anti-Bullying Act” October, 23 via Facebook live.

According to Prof.

Serrano, bullies are those who lost power. “They lost control on their problems in lives and they are experiencing mental health problems,” she said.

Per Serrano, the cases of bullying escalated together

with the number of positive cases of COVID- 19. “Itong enforced isolation during the COVID-19 also provides avenues for bullies to plant sinister seed,” she explained.

She further discussed the reasons, effects, forms, and other causes of bullying and left the acronym BULLY; Big Ugly Loner Losers Yearning attention.

She mentioned that bullying could cause lasting damage to the bullied person in terms of physical, emotional and mental aspects.

Serrano also talked over the aims of RA. 10627 or the Anti-Bullying Act, one to protect

students in learning centers from being bullied.

The webinar was organized by the Student Welfare and Services Unit of Bulacan Agricultural State College headed

by Mr. Herbert Anthony V. Roberto.

In addition, the said webinar aimed to put a higher level of awareness and understanding about the relevant issues and topics that will help them realize the importance of leaving in accordance to what is socially acceptable and correct. **

paano nadama ko na my work is not wasted,” Aisanne Marie S. Macnatt, Huwarang Guro in Institute of Management, said.

“Siguro marunong lang akong makisama sa kahit na sinong tao ang nasa harapan ko, at marunong akong dumama kung ano ba yung kalagayan ng bawat isa —co-teacher ko man ‘yan, co-worker or students,” she shared when asked of her qualities that made her being chosen as one of the Huwarang Guro awardee.

On the other hand, Mr. Herbert De Jesus, Natatanging Guro 2020 awardee for the Secondary Education (Science), shared that he feel blessed and glad to be recognized by his students, because it is an achievement for him as a teacher.

“Advice ko siguro [to teachers], don’t stop to learn. Ang learning kasi ay continuous, hindi lang sa subject matter, pati kung sino at paano natututo ang mga bata, lalo na sa generation ngayon, at try to accept mistakes and matuto ka sa mga mistakes mo,” he adviced to the teachers.

Meanwhile, the awardees in each category were as follows: NATATANGING GURO 2020 (College of Agriculture) Animal Science — Dr. Helen G. Manalastas Crop Science — Rael C. Tejada Horticulture — Verginia V. Soriano Veterinary Medicine — Dr. Honeylet J. Nicolas NATATANGING GURO 2020 (Institute of Education) Elementary Education — Maila E. Ignacio Secondary Education (English) — Cynthia M. Sanchez Secondary Education (Science) — Herbert M. De Jesus NATATANGING GURO 2020 >> pg. 11

NEWS|11

Tahip

CA advocates education amidst pandemic JOHN MARF C. GUMAFELIX THE opening of the new program, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine under the College of Agriculture heightened the mood of the orientation as they officially welcomed the new school year by conducting a virtual orientation for the CA students, October 9.

“Even though we are facing the COVID-19 pandemic, learning and education shouldn’t stop. Humanity therefore needs leadership and solidarity to defeat coronavirus,” Ms. Evelyn Q. Alera, faculty member of College of Agriculture said.

The said orientation aimed to discuss the health and safety protocols for every student,

faculty members and personnel of the institution, following the announcement of Prospero de Vera, chairman of Commission on Higher Education through CMO no. 4. S of 2020 stating the guidelines on the implementation of flexible learning.

BASC’s Flexible Learning Plan in the new normal BOT Resolution no. 20-1309 was presented by Ms. Evelyn Q. Alera, faculty member of College of Agriculture.

In addition, strict compliance shall be implemented with assignments, activities and projects that will be given and submitted via Facebook messenger and Google classroom. **

from Studentry virtually applauds...

(Institute of Engineering and Applied Technology) Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering — Engr. Daniel Alexis H. Belonio Food Technology — Joy Christine V. Sta. Cruz Geodetic Engineering — Engr.

Robert Anthony C. Wagan Information Technology — Russel Amira H. Balacania NATATANGING GURO 2020 (Institute of Management) Agribusiness Management — Nita B. Vigilia Business Administration — Ruby Ann C. Estrella Hospitality Management — Karen Joy C. Giron HUWARANG KAWANI 2020 General Services — Abner E. Apostol

HUWARANG GURO 2020 College of Agriculture (CA) — Dr. Helen G. Manalastas Institute of Education (IEd) — Dr. Analiza A. Vendicacion Institute of Arts and Sciences (IAS) — Vladimir C. Sempio Institute of Engineering and Applied Technology (IEAT) — Engr. Darius R. Mendoza Institute of Management (IM) — Aisanne Marie S. Mcnatt Laboratory High School (LHS) — Joy Edilaine R. Handig Doña Remedios Trinidad Campus (DRT) — Gabriel C. Fantilanan Balagtas Technical Vocational College Campus (BTVC) — Concepcion V. Interino Fortunato F. Halili National High School (FFHNHS) — Wilbert A. Villaflor. **

PROGRESS. After winning the stage of 18th Agency In-House Review of Completed Research Projects, research on rabbit meat made its way on the third spot during 4th Regional Research Conference. Photo | REPD Office.

BASC holds 4th Regional Research Conference, Sta. Cruz yields third BIANCA GAIL D.C. GONZALES On the 4th year of conduct of BASC Regional Conference, Ms. Joy Christine V. Sta. Cruz heightened the pride of the College after bagging the 3rd spot in the research category in the Agriculture, Environment, and Natural Resources October 28.

Being the first price winner of the 19th In-House Review of Completed Research Projects, the paper of Sta. Cruz together with Ms. Noime J. Mallari and Ms. Marielle D. Gamboa titled “Effect of Fermentation Time of Lapan (Rabbit Meat) Jerky Processing” has led the college into spotlight.

“Actually ‘yong pinresent nung regional was the same nung in house. We change the title based dun sa recommendation last time,” Sta. Cruz said.

The Regional Conference bore the theme “Higher Education Researches: Rising to the Challenges of the New Normal” which has two categories; Agriculture, Environment, and Natural Resources; and Education and Social Sciences.

Listed below were the winners of the Regional Conference: Agriculture, Environment, and Natural Resources Category 1st – Tarlac Agricultural University- Mr. Allan Jeffrey E. Francia “Prevalence of Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria in Lung Tissue of Swine from Abattoirs of Western Tarlac” 2nd – Bataan Peninsula State University- Mr. Marz Linnaeous L. Rabadon “Multivariate Analyses of Riverine and Shrimp Pond Hydro-bacterial Quality as Localized Evaluation for Microbial Integrity of River-fed Shrimp Culture Systems” 3rd – Bulacan Agricultural State College- Ms. Joy Christine V. Sta. Cruz “Effect of Fermentation Time of Lapan (Rabbit Meat) Jerky Processing” Education, Economics and Social Sciences category 1st Bataan Peninsula State University- Dr. Flora D. Canare “Dynamics of Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC) as an Organization’s Network” 2nd Tarlac Agricultural University- Dr. Lordy P. Plaza “Investigation on the Antimicrobials used by Farmers in Tarlac” 3rd Aurora State College of Technology- Mr. Alfredo C. Padios “Predictors of Statehood and Senior High School Strand: A Tracer Study”. **

12|FEATURE

Tahip

GONZALES, Pieven Jester A. (Contributor)

Ang paglapat ng kahel na sinag ng araw sa aking balat ang pinakamagandang tanawin na iyong aasaming masumpungan bago matapos ang isang makaubos-lakas na pakikipagsapalaran. Sa pagdapo ni haring araw sa akin ay mamamasdan mo ang pagdikit ng kalangitan at ng karagatan.

Tahimik kong pinagmamasdan ang paglubog ng araw, na akin nang naging gawi sa simula pa lamang nang aking pagkamuwang. Sa pagsapit naman ng gabi ay kinang ng buwan ang siyang dumadampi sa aking kahubdan, sa pagtanglaw

mula sa itaas, isinasabay ko ang aking panaka-nakang pagkumpas dulot ng paghaplos ng hanging sumisimoy.

Sa kalagitnaan ng pamamayagpag ni haring araw, ang mga mamamayan dito sa siyudad ay pabalik-balik sa aking harapan. Ang iba ay nandito upang huminto, mamahinga at busugin ang mga mata ng sari-saring senaryo. Pamilyar na ang iba sa akin at ganoon din naman ako sa kanila. Ngunit sa lahat ng ito’y may isang naiiba, isang pamilyar na mukha ang paulit-ulit na umaaligid sa akin. Gusto rin ba nitong manahan sa aking

kinasasakupan? O kaya nama’y napapansin nito kung gaano karumi ang aking katawan?

Ipinagsawalang bahala ko na lamang ang aking napansin at ipinagpatuloy ang pagkumpas kaalinsabay ng mainit na hangin.

Ang aking asul na blusa ay nadungisan na ngunit patuloy ito sa pagpapakinang dulot ng sinag ng buwan at araw. Dahan-dahan kong isinayaw sa hangin ang aking blusa at tila hindi alintana ang pagkalat ng mga basurang nakakapit. Kahit ang pagsabit nito sa batuha’y hindi naging hadlang sa lakas ng aking indayog.

FEATURE|13

Tahip

Isang araw, tahimik ang kapaligiran ngunit may iilang mga taong padaan-daan. Habang ako ay payapang umiindayog sa hampas ng alon ay nahagip ng aking pandinig ang isang malakas na tunog. Anong nangyayari?

Umaalog ang lupa! Unti-unting nanginig ang aking sistema sa takot kasabay ng isang dagundong na nagpagalaw sa aking blusa!

‘Di naglaon ay dahan-dahan itong nawala na siyang bumawi sa aking pagkakagulantang. Ngunit bakit tila ako lamang ang naapektuhan ng malakas na dagundong? Lahat ng tao sa aking paligid ay walang malay sa kakaibang nangyayari.

Teka! Nakita ko na naman siya!

Muli na naman itong lumiligid sa akin, kaharap nito ang isang naninirahan sa aking lugar.

Nagpakilala ito bilang isang kinatawan ng ahensiyang pang kalikasan.

Sa patuloy na pagsisid ng aking utak ay napagtanto kong sila ang nagdulot ng kakaibang tunog! Ayon pa dito’y naglaan sila ng pondo para sa kanilang trabaho na nagkakahalaga ng 349 milyong piso. Ganitong halaga ba ang kinakailangan para sa nakabibinging tunog? Kung papalitan mo ito ng barya ay sapat na ito para masakop ang ilang parte ng aking tirahan, o kaya naman ay ilang tao din ang kayang buhayin ng nasabing salapi.

Muling umalulong ang dagundong ngunit sa pagkakataong ito’y kasabay ang paglapit ng naglalakihang behikulo patungo sa aking kinaroroonan. Tahimik kong pinagmamasdan kung ano ang kanilang gagawin sa oras na lumapat ang kanilang paa sa aking nasasakupan. Walang pasabi nitong isinaboy ang sandamakmak na puting bagay sa aking blusa, hindi ako makagalaw!

Pagkabigla at bigat sa pakiramdam ang namayani sa akin dahil hindi ako makalaban. Unti-unti at dahan-dahang natatakpan ang dumi ng aking asul na kasuotan.

Matapos ang isang araw ng bigat at pasakit ay napagpasyahan rin nilang tumigil.

Ngunit akala ko’y tapos na sila, akala ko ay mawawala na nang tuluyan ang alikabok na bumubulag at sumusulasok sa akin, ngunit akala ko lang pala…

Ilang araw na ang nagdaan at dama ko ang dumodobleng bigat ng aking bagong blusa, ngunit ito’y nananatiling marungis tulad ng dati at tila walang nangyayari. Ito na ba ang rehabilitasyon na ipinangako sa akin noong nakaraang taon? Hindi na yata nila ako lubos na nakikilala tulad ng dati, isang anyong tubig na asul ang katawan, mayroong masisiglang bakawan na

Isa na lamang akong piping saksi sa pagkasira ng aking sarili.”

ikinabubuhay ng mga tao sa aking paligid. Marahil ay ito ang kanilang ganti matapos magkamaling putulin ang mga inalagaan kong bakawan. Muli nilang dinungisan ang aking anyo ng puting buhangin bilang pamalit sa duming kanilang inimbak. Mula sa masiglang asul ay unti-unti akong lumalabo at nanlilimahid.

Marahil ay ito ang mabilis na paraan upang ibalik ang lumipas kong ganda, ngunit hindi nito mapapantayan ang tunay kong wangis na pinupuno ng bughaw at luntian. Gusto ko mang umapela ay wala rin naman itong patutunguhan. Isa na lamang akong piping saksi sa pagkasira ng aking sarili. Sa kabila ng pasakit na kanilang ibinigay ay patuloy pa ring hahaplos sa kalangitan at pagmamasdan ang paglisan ng liwanag.

Kumikinang ang kahel na sinag ng araw sa aking katawan, lahat ng tao ay nakamasid sa aking paligid.

Inuusisa ang paglubog ng nasira kong wangis. Ngayong nagbihis na ako ng aking bagong kasuotan, masasabi ninyo pa bang natural ang aking kagandahan?

“Kung maibabalik ko lamang ang oras, kung saan namamayani ang asul at luntian sa aking kapaligiran…”

GRAPHICS | RAPHAEL POLICARPIO

14|LITERARY

Tahip

While some Cries

Awaiting Death

HIZON, Nathaniel While everyone is missing the feeling of gentle touch, I am trying to feel something aside from loneliness.

You might be thinking of what food to eat or what show to watch.

While I am fraught feeding the monster under my mattress.

MANGULABNAN, Elijah

We are all fighting our own battles silently.

While some are struggling to survive; there is me, trying to revive.

Death is nothing like how people perceive him to be. He is not a skeleton, he doesn’t hold a scythe, nor he doesn’t wear a black cloak.

He is not those things. Death is.. normal. I know, because I’ve been with him for years.

He had the darkest locks I’ve seen, they’re fluffy; and his skin, it’s soft. The dark eyes he had is beautiful, that his gaze makes me want to get lost. He is warm and comfortable. He had given me home when I have nowhere to turn to. He had given me so much.

Some are lucky to have choices in their lives, while some are not, Others risk lives only to stay alive.

But no matter what, one enemy creeps into anyone; the hardest one to fight and leaves you undone.

Crying isn’t always tears, and sobbing isn’t always heard.

Hunger isn’t always for food, and thirst isn’t always for water.

I’ve been longing to feel his warmth again, to caress him, to get lost in his eyes again. I’ve been longing for him since we parted ways.

He told me he’ll never come back to me again. He really didn’t. And after centuries, I’m still waiting.

Ropes & Cuts GONZALES, Bianca Gail Mischievous is the darkness of the night, whispering through the cold breeze.

Tempting my poor vulnerable soul to let negativity sit in.

Trapped in the four corners of this filthy room, Body covered with gloom.

Standing in an old wooden chair, reaching for a rope that I tied in a loop.

With another hand, I hold a knife; looking at my reflection from the moon’s light.

I realized I am not to cut my lifeline, but I am to survive a lifetime.

GRAPHICS | ERCIE MAPOY (Contributor)

LITERARY|15

Tahip I Am No Longer Afraid Andres (Contributor) Untold stories have scars unseen; broken melodies were songs of sin.

Wounds left became scars with incisive meaning; hidden behind a glow of a flower blooming.

Days and nights were devastating; though not sick, but suffocating.

Someone held my neck; so tight I had hard time breathing.

That someone brought something, and that something meant everything.

It was a treasure to cherish, yet a nightmare to banish.

I need you to get me out of the dungeon I’m locked in.

Give me a sign and sing me a song; a note to remind me to regain my sanity, or a letter to make me remember I owe myself an apology.

I will find my own worth as soon as I wake up, and be a broken glass who will shine brighter when the pain stops.

Neon

SUNGA, Mark Joshua

Blade had revoked her soul, her witch-like fairy skill howled.

Battalion of musketeers, she killed; A renegade amidst the vibrant field.

Kill-devil heart in an angel’s phase, born from the sparkle and glittery glaze.

She was a deviant, shelving blood in every word.

She had her hands at the frontier of sword.

Far out, there was a thing that sprinkles; Beyond the darkness there was she who twinkles.

Everyday was a chapter of her bravery, the series of reflecting color of her life and splendid misery.

Old but Gold CAADAN, Alexis There will come the day, when the keepers of the house shall tremble.

The strong men shall bow themselves, Grinders will cease because they are few; and those that look out of the windows be darkened.

Then the sound of the nature be fainted, And all the daughters of music shall be brought low;

Later, the golden bowl will be broken, Or the pitcher runs out at the fountain, Or the wheel be torn at the cistern, Or the silver cord be loosed.

Then the dust will return to earth as it is; And the spirit shall return to heaven.

All is vanity, if you never fought a good fight.

Yes, I have survived a pandemic.

But soon, I will be in the city of gold.

I may die an old man, And thank goodness, not with any illness.

Thalassophobia HIZON, Melanie N. a thing I never learnt in my childhood, is how to swim, dip and float; but now, without any rehearsals, I risk to dive, drift and sail alone, not through waters and seas, but through floods and storms, until every ripple became my ally.

GRAPHICS | ERLIE DAWN LATUJA (Contributor)

16|LITERARY

Tahip

Pluma: Ang Huling Alas CASTILLO, Joshua Pluma’y s’yang armas, Punglo, birtud at lakas; Gamot sa dahas.

Igpawan jsoniberso May kaharap kang halimaw, Aba! Natakot ka; Ngunit sa iyong paglingon, Marami na palang halimaw ang ‘yong naitumba.

Kinakabahan ka dahil puso mo’y tumitibok pa.

Kung wala kang maramdamang kaba, malamang tigok ka na.

Humarap sa salamin nang malaman mong mas nakatatakot ka.

Kung alanganin ka sa laban, alalahanin si Jawo; Matatambakan lang sa umpisa ang Ginebra, Ngunit sila pa rin ang wagi sa dulo ng laro.

Ang buhay ay pelikula, at ikaw si Fernando; Mabubugbog muna bago gawing punching bag si Paquito.

#NoOneShouldBeLeftBehind rgp Napapaisip na lang talaga ako kung paano ako makapag-eenroll ngayon. Hindi sapat ang kita ni tatay para makapagpakabit ng wifi.

Ang pera pangload binabadyet lang ni nanay pambili ng bigas, minsan tinapay.

Ngunit, sinagot naman agad ang aking dalangin. Makapag-aaral na akong muli, diskarte lang pala ang kailangan at husay.

“Connected.”

Nagtatalon ako sa tuwa nang ma-hack ko ang wifi ng aming kapitbahay.

‘Wag na ‘wag kang bibitaw, higpitan ang kapit.

Makararating din, kahit sumabit lang sa jeep.

Malayo sa bituka, malalim man ang sugat, Piliting makaraos katulad ng aking panulat.

‘Pagkat “tinta ng aking ballpen, malapit nang maubos”.

Isang patak na lang ngunit sumadsad pa rin hanggang ang tulang ito’y matapos.

GRAPHICS | CAROL BAGUISA

LITERARY|17

Three Happy Faces Out of 10 People horiZone (Contributor)

The World is Harsh but There’s No Quitting Protonation (Contributor) In this world where felicity doesn’t have a guarantee, I hope you choose to smile and be happy.

In this world where survival isn’t easy, I hope you choose to live and be free.

In this world where uncertainties are innumerable, I hope you choose to live a life that’s favorable.

In this dark world where it’s hard to fight, I hope you choose to grip tight, and wait to see the light.

Beloved, there may be thousand reasons to retreat, but hold onto that last reason, not to quit.

Open casket, blank canvas Believe me it’s hard to look forward For tomorrow’s reason to live Or for even having to get a deep breath.

Cold eyes, white sheets These four walls again with slits

Firefly SULIT, Charles (Contributor) Once upon a firefly, flying under the moonlight.

Eclipsing that tiny flicker, reflecting its glow.

Like a small hope, challenged by environment, surviving in the wild, never giving up.

Are you the little firefly?

Trotting in the darkness, along with tiny light.

Beautiful and fascinating.

Imprinted the stories I cannot tell Maybe next time or never, who could say?

Bright screens, loud voices Only the echoes from yesterday made me see That today lacks off some bliss And a little bit of me.

One With The Fireflies horiZone (Contributor)

At a time like this, night is silent.

I’m wondering where the crickets go for I haven’t heard a single sound from them. Maybe my sobs are just too loud and it’s the only thing my ear was able to hear. My sobs used to be quiet and lowkey.

I don’t wanna wake anyone whose beside me, but tonight I let them go and wander the vastness of my emotion and let it consume me. Well, I don’t wanna think that way. I wanted to think that crickets are having their best time with the long forgotten fireflies.

Little lights lost their illumination, because people believe they don’t have much impact to the world just like me. But if I will never be lonely with them, then, I want to go with the crickets to be one with the fireflies.

GRAPHICS | CAROL BAGUISA

18|LITERARY

GRAPHICS | LANCH LENARD DELOS SANTOS

Tahip

LITERARY|19

Tahip

2020: Year of the Decade

;

Okeanos Nyx (Contributor) Whatever I will tell you never dare to believe me. I’m a big fat liar.

It had been such a good year. The sound of the firecrackers filled the air as the clock hit 12. The New Year — 2020 had come.

The world felt delighted as the start of the year came. January lighted the burning passion in the bushes of Australia. Koalas cheer with happiness as their 2,000 hectares home turned into ashes. No one died. No one.

On the seventh day of the starter month, there was a surprise held.

China successfully gave birth to a blessing, a child named 2019-nCov. Wuhan came singing Hallelujah as the child played along with the whole country, then traveled overseas.

Everyone was in deep happiness.

Nobody cried. Everybody was joyful, indeed. Kobe is on his 42nd year and Gigi is on her 14th.

People seemed to enjoy the view.

The scenery of the Taal Volcano erupting did not affect anyone. Amidst of playing with the “Chinese child”, they were on the run to throw a party while ashes were pouring from the sky.

A killing snowflake. Residents smiled as they saw the rice fields and fish ponds blown into the trash. They were laughing.

The students were proud not bidding goodbyes to their school friends. The long years of a journey together have been pulled out in a blink.

Behind these lovely disasters, the government was in full response.

There were no political issues and they were helping each other. Everything was just fine.

CURA, Victoria (Contributor) Countrymen were in tears of joy.

Watching the Lawmakers fight and push each other down made them feel so proud. In the middle of playing ‘tagu-taguan’ with nCov, politicians were in the burst to find solutions and preventions. They did not argue as well, they were busy discussing necessary actions on how we could play hard with death.

Yet in reality.

The world was silent while whining. An uproar from the darkness devoured the sound of the small spark.

Everything was lost and the monsters came in. The locales were not alone anymore.

We were in fear and hatred for the past months. Flattening the curve was impossible. They were just putting an act as if they were doing the best that they could.

Just to survive.

Each bag of ‘ayuda’ - a leftover from the so-called “budget” was not enough.

Hypocrite. Trying to prove they did the best while hiding the fact that they have earned something from it. And again, just to have something to put in our stomach, we accepted it. Bit our tongue. Closed our eyes. Stayed silent.

Heard how the demons chuckle and yell whilst cutting their hands off down in hell. Everyone listened to their creepy proclamation.

Whatever I told you, dare not to believe me. I’m a big fat liar. But as a liar, never did I lie for the sake of the other liars.

Sa yungib sila’y nakakadena’t nagtatago, sila’y unti-unting hinahatak, pinapatay at binabaon ng mga pagkaing inihahain ng mga mapagkunwaring halimaw.

Alpas! Alpas! Bakit hindi ako makaalpas?

Nakasukbit sa hilatsya ng kanilang mukha ang saya ng kalungkutan.

Bubungisngis at makikiayon sa paglalayag ng mundong mapanghamon habang ikinukubli ang sakit at pangambang unti-unting lumalamon sa pagkakataong nais na sanang magpakilala. Kasabay ng bukang liwayway ay ang takot na hatid ng mga bumubukang sakit mula sa mga mata at bibig ng mga taong nananaksak sa dibdib.

Masakit, kanino ko ito ipababatid?

Ikukwento na lamang ba sa hangin at pananatilihin itong lihim? Wala namang nakikinig sa hapdi nitong damdamin. Sasarilihin ko na lamang ang mga hinagpis. Kanino nga ba magtitiwala kung lahat kayo’y nakatanaw lamang habang ako’y nasa bangin ng kamatayan?

Isang kamay lang naman na hahawak sa palad na malamig, iyong maghahatid sakin ng natatanging init. Mahapdi na ang mata tuwing gabi, banat na ang labi sa pagpapanggap na ngumiti.

Ayoko na, sagad na ang sakit.

Bunsol na ang isip sa pag-unawa sa mga maskarang nagsisilay ng ngiti. Mga halimaw, ang mga salita niyo’y mapanakit, mga ngiti ninyo’y mapagkunwari.

Mapusyaw, maliwanag. Ako’y biglang nasilaw sa semetrikong ilaw. Dama ko ang pagluwag ng mga tanikala. Ano ito? May init na lumulukob sa aking mga sugat. Masarap, maginhawa.

Nanghihikayat palabas ng kagubatan. Naninikluhod akong lumabas, iingos-ingos sa sakit na nadarama. Sa pag-angat ko ng aking mga mata, bahaghari ang una kong nakita, kasabay ng bulong ng Ina, “Anak, nakalabas ka na.” Iwinaksi niya ang mga butil ng luhang tumatakas.

Dinampian niya ng masamyo at maingat na halik ang aking noo, tila takot na masaktan ako.

Naluluha ako sa saya, may tao pa pa lang nakaaalala.

Tatapusin na sana ang patay na buhay dahil sa pighating hatid ng masalimuot at mapanghusgang mundo, ngunit sa alon ng mga tao, may tinig na gumising sa nakalibing nang damdamin.

“Anak, nakalabas ka na.” Hindi pa pala tapos ang kwento, magsisimula palang ito mula sa pag-alpas ko.

20|LITERARY

Tahip

Estudyante Muna SAN PEDRO, Lloydd Dafydd R. “Mr. De Vera, bilang Chairperson ng Comission on Higher Education, ano po ang masasabi ninyo sa sigaw ng mga kabataan na Academic Freeze?”

“Sa totoo lang, mga estudyante talaga ang ibig naming pakinggan. Kung anong sigaw nila, iyon ang gagawin namin.

Wika nga e, ‘Estudyante Muna’.”

“Kung gayon po, itutuloy na po ninyo ang hiling nilang Academic Freeze?”

“Oo, hinto na lang muna ang pagaaral, magsagot na lang sila ng modules.”

Santo, Santito HAGAD, Rand Cristian S. Bugtong, bugtong.

Hindi santo, ngunit naghihimala.

Mataas ang grado, mahina sa numero.

Bumibida sa publiko.

Hilig ay magpatawa, hindi naman payaso.

GRAPHICS | CAROL BAGUISA

LITERARY|21

Tahip

As Usual MASONG, Aileen S.

Tragedy of Every Moment

The paunch resents alms; Tastes knife to hash, satiates.

Rise and satisfied.

Protonation (Contributor)

Every day, there are lots of news about death, corruption, evil deeds and plagues.

Every hour, we hear cries, whines, and groans of people suffering and hurting.

Every minute, we endure great pain and continue to battle this unprivileged life we don’t deserve.

And here we are every second, hoping and praying that once -even just once, this government becomes competent enough to address the needs of its citizens.

Hukay Andres (Contributor) Wala na yatang mga salitang magtutugma o musikang aakma, sapagkat pinalitan na ang akda.

Ipinasa sa mga alon ang bigat ng damdamin ng mga matang nagbubulag-bulagan.

Tanging mga sabaw na isip ang umahon, kaalinsabay ng paglubog ng karunungan sa buhanginan.

Hukayin, nasa kailaliman ang katotohanan na salapi ang laman ng kagandahang nilalakaran.

May bagong pahina ang naisulat, laman ang milyong pangalan ng mga hangal na ipinaanod na lamang sa dagat.

GRAPHICS | VICTOR JHON DIONISIO (Contributor)

24|LITERARY

Tahip

Paglalayag

Fatamorgana

PORCIUNCULA, Christian Jay

Deus ex Machina (Contributor) The scorching heat of the sun will never be an excuse to stop the hunt; neither the life threatening thirst, nor this endless place that is cursed.

The desert will not abide your desires, it will keep on stretching its miles.

The unsympathetic cold will chill your bones, when the night transpire after the dawn.

It seems like the sun took all the heat, right after the moment

(Contributor)

it left the summit.

However, you cannot freeze to death, because tomorrow the search is on set.

The desert will make you crumble; it will trap you until you stumble, it will play your mind and imagination.

You might think that vivid lines were the horizons, but it is just a fatamorgana you see in your hallucinations.

That’s how the desert will crush your motivations.

Singkwenta PORCIUNCULA, Christian Jay (Contributor) Sa tuwing sasapit ang pasukan ay hindi maialis sa akin ang pagkasabik sa pag-aaral, ngunit iba ang aking nararamdaman ngayon. Kasalukuyan akong nasa itaas ng puno ng mangga sa likuran ng aming bahay hindi upang kumuha ng bunga, kundi para humanap ng maayos na signal ng aking telepono.

Payak lamang ang pamumuhay ng aming pamilya ngunit ngayong nagkaroon ng pandemya ay tila lalo kaming isinadlak sa karukhaan. Pilit lamang na iniraraos ng aking mga magulang ang aming pag-aaral kahit na minsan ay hindi pa sumasapat ang kanilang kinikita sa aming pagkain sa araw-araw.

sumunod na lamang sa kaniya upang hindi na mapagalitan pa.

Pagkatapos kong magsaing ng bigas ay itinanong ko kay Inay kung ano ang aming uulamin ngayon.

“Nay, anong ulam natin?”

“Wala pa nga eh. Oh, heto pera,” wika niya sabay abot ng pulang salapi.

“Ano pong bibilhin kong ulam?” tanong ko.

“Hindi, Nak. Itabi mo ‘yan. Para iyan sa pag-aaral mo, ipang-load mo pang-internet.”

Habang abala sa paglahok sa online class ay nakita kong paparating ang aking ina.

“Hoy Jose! Bumaba ka nga rito! Magsaing ka muna bago ka mag-cellphone. Wala ka nang inatupag kundi cellphone,” nayayamot na sigaw ni Inay.

“Opo, Nay,” tugon ko kay Inay.

Wala akong nagawa kundi GRAPHICS | PRINCE ROBBIE JIMENEZ (Contributor)

Will you go on?

Will you move on?

Will you keep on searching the oasis?

Will you endure all these crisis?

Yes you will, because you left the savana where you lived, for this is the journey that you believe.

You know the water in the oasis will taste the finest, because you will conquer the quest.

Natagpuang nakabigkis, nakalutang sa karagatan.

Kumawala’t nagpumiglas, ipinagaspas ang tunay na kulay.

Hindi nagpalunod sa hagupit ng along nagkukumpulan.

Inaasam na kaligayahan, iniahon sa hukay.

Sinuong ang lahat pati ang karagatang walang lingap.

Tanging sandata ang sagwan ng kagitingan Lulan ng bangka ang hangad na pagtanggap.

Sa daungan ng pagmamahal, bahaghari’y namasdan.

LITERARY|25

Tahip

Color blind HIZON, Melanie in a million, you are as rare as achromatopsia unable to perceive hues from the spectrum of light; impotent to discern the shade of inequality. hunger, poverty, and justice is your blindspot. money, power, and dominance is your normal vision acuity. and there was black, white and gray, the dull colors you only sighted, — the shade of your hypocrisy.

With Ears to See horizon (Contributor)

“The world will listen to those who speak.”

paREHAS

And in the mind of a mute he said, “How am I supposed to be heard if I cannot utter a word?”

to tell you, there’s a cure with your blindsided spot, but surely you won’t take it; your wealth cannot afford it for it is your choice to be sick.

CURA, Victoria (Contributor)

Dilaw at kahel, bakit tila iisa ang kanilang pananamit?

Sinusuri ko ang bawat bakal na aking nadadaanan. Kamay, kamay na nakakapit ng mahigpit ang aking nasisilayan. Mga mata nila’y nakatutok sa akin, tila isa akong bagong salta sa mundong hindi kailanman mararanasan ng mga taong malaya.

Sa paghagod ng aking paningin ay isang matanda ang aking nakita, nakangiting gumuguhit sa isang lukot na piraso ng papel. Lukot ang kanyang noo ng tingnan ang guhit, sa pagangat niya ng naturang papel, ay pumatak ang butil ng kanyang luha. Ah! Isang puno, isang puno

na listahan ng ngalan ng kanyang pamilya, ang iba’y blangko na, ang iba’y may laman pa.

“Ma-a-artha, Ra-ulo, Me-mer-si-sidita,” banggit niya.

Napangiti ng ilang segundo kasabay ng paghaplos niya ng bawat pangalang nakaimprinta, dinadama ang pakiramdam ng yakap at init na sanay madama niya kahit sa huling sandali ng kanyang hininga.

Sa kabila nama’y natanaw ko ang isang lalaki, nakahawak sa dingding, iniitiman ang bawat numero ng kalendaryo, ng mga oras at araw niyang lumipas kasabay ng pagtitig sa larawan ng isang sanggol.

Iniimahe ang unang yapak at pagtawag nito sa kanya, ang unang ngiti at pag-iyak. Yumuko lamang ang lalaki, iniisip ang bawat sandaling kapiling sana niya ang anak, ang mga segundong dumadaan na hindi niya ito matanaw o ‘ni magabayan. Sa bawat pikit ng kanyang mata ay ang takot na hindi na siya nito makilala pa. Ilang sulat pa ba ang lilipas bago mahagkan at mahalikan, o sadyang mananatili na lamang na sulat ang lahat ng kwentong nais niyang gawing aral? Dahil sa paglaki nito ay ang paglaki rin ng kanilang agwat.

Paglingon ko sa baba’y nasaksihan ko ang pag-uunahan

nilang makakuha ng pagkain, naghihilutan at naghahalinhinan sa paghiga. Masikip, mainit, mga mata nila’y nagsusumamo ng pagdalaw, mga isip nila’y sumisigaw at humihingi ng saklolo upang makalaya. Bawat mata nila’y may pagsisisi, ikinukubli lamang ng kanilang mga ngiti.

Aawit at magpapanggap sa liwanag, ngunit sa dilim, sila’y naniniki sa lamig at pangungulila.

Ang kaibahan nila? Sila’y nahuli na sa nagawa nilang kamalian, samantalang ikaw ay hindi pa!

Ngayon, sabihin mo sa akin, kung kahit minsa’y nagkamali ka na ba?

GRAPHICS | PRINCE ROBBIE JIMENEZ (Contributor)

12|SPORTS OPINION

Tahip

“The Long Wait is OVER” Divulge, Scarlet

Lanch Lenard C. Delos Santos Editor-in-Chief BSABEn 3 delossantoslanch@gmail.com

DISMAYED: The enthusiasm brought by non-stop turns of event will now take a break as we faced the new mode of

learning wherein physical activities will be left behind the traces of last year’s festivity. For acceptance will be the only way to move forward and hope for the return of the anticipated event after the pandemic.

The festivity brought by the annual celebration of the most prestigious sporting event in the institution, Bulacan Agricultural State College’s student athletes brawling their way into the spotlight and proving their prowess through fair and competitive tournament is one of the highly-anticipated events of student athletes and regular students –- the College Intramurals.

Crowds congregating in different fields, shouts and cheers from supporters, and even the heart-stopping moments of the players — these are reminiscent every Intramurals Meet.

Behind the entertainment that the students are taking hold of, student journalists are playing ahead of the court.

Taking the risk in the midst the crowd while documenting a play that they are not familiar of; leaping into the stage of action, even their specialized field is the game of language and literatures.

Going back to the joy of tournament and competition, the much-awaited days of rest and enthusiasm took a breather this year as the world is engulfed into the zone of pandemic.

Coping with the ever-changing educational needs of students, BASC provided online learning this semester while battling the pandemic, the thing that is certain is, there will be no Intramurals Meet 2020.

As a sports writer and an athlete, it really dismays the competitor inside me for there will be no Intramurals Meet

It is hard to hear the disappointment of my fellow student athletes, for this event only happens once a year.”

where I should be competing for championship. It is hard to hear the disappointment of my fellow student athletes, for this event only happens once a year. But what really saddens me is the reality that no student will be filled with enthusiasm brought by spectating the value of sportsmanship.

With the current trend of online sporting events brought by online gaming, I still consider the significance of physical sports as it boosts not only the confidence of athletes, but also their poise to be in the stage of competence.

A new school year with a different experience of learning punched us with the reality that Intramurals 2020 will hide from the shadows of online modules and virtual meeting.

The joy of sportsmanship will then be covered by non-stop brawl with academics brought by this pandemic. Strains wielded by the academic demands will also hinder the excitement of competing, but we are facing the reality. The festivity will now take its break, but the hope of another year of lively activities due to Intramurals will never fade to the stars of the Institution... The student-athletes.

OPINION|27

Tahip

“BEHIND THE DARK CLOUD, THERE’S A SILVER LINING” Pontifex

Lloydd Dafydd R. San Pedro Managing Editor for Administration BEEd 2A dafyddlloydd@gmail.com

HOPE. Teaching and learning involve connections. As humans, this feeling of connectedness is taken away from us. This may be the right time to destroy the barriers between teachers and students. We must forge a new standard. This is now the time that we must secure not only students to learn and to pass the course but also to see if they are able to cope up with the remote education.

The last decades of classroom instruction never prepared us for distance learning. Yet an unwelcomed traveler by the name COVID19, toured around the world. Each country visited panicked, lockdowns were imposed, mass gatherings were cancelled, schools were closed, and all were forced to stay at home.

When the World Health Organization designated the novel coronavirus disease as a world pandemic in March 2020, our country suspended work and classes to slow down the spread of the virus. For tertiary education, the second semester made me realize that this coming academic year was a retreat, as professors and student found difficulties and adjustments from the traditional classroom to a virtual one.

Our college began the first semester last 24th of August.

It was an understatement to say that the virus brought feelings of precariousness and stress about the future. However, living life under quarantine, doing schoolwork online, and studying virtually became my new routine which I completely accepted. Even though I have not wanted to spend the final years of being a student connecting online just to meet my professors and classmates beyond the dimension of internet, I found the rainbow after the rain.

Despite having the same problem, it became easier at least these days to cope as teachers empathized with the students.

There were still unheard voices that kept on shouting for academic

freeze or to move the class on October. But then according to the Chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Prospero De Vera, it was unreasonable for all universities and colleges to resume the classes simultaneously because their school calendars were distinct from one another. He called it impractical and unachievable as the school year structure was determined by individual universities guaranteed by their Academic Freedom under the Philippine Constitution.

Online Distance Learning had its ups and downs.

This shift to virtual classroom was a tough one for many families.

Students reaching out to their professors during online instruction had its difficulties.

As I have experienced comparing the last semester’s adjustment because of this pandemic, some of the professors also have their adjustments for this situation. For example, our teacher in SocSci 101, Rommel Eguia said “Magiingat kayong lahat. Para sa mga mahal sa buhay, sa mga kaibigan at pamilya... For 10 points”. Even it is a joke or not, statement like this helps the students a lot to make our classroom in the comfort of our own space and another professor from the other institute, Ronald Reagan T. Alonzo, Vice President AFBA, motivated his students through giving electronic load as a reward for a task he assigned.

In this time where most students and their families suffer from financial difficulties and

slowly losing interest in studying, such small acts encourage the students to keep moving forward.

This would not solve all the problems, but it will at least lessen the burden students have to carry everyday.

We have our teachers who can help us to adjust in this time of distress, all we have to do is to reach out for help and I am sure that they will extend their hand.

Teaching and learning involve connections. As humans this feeling of connectedness is taken away from us. This may be the right time to destroy the barriers between teachers and students. We must forge a new standard. This is now the time that we must secure not only students to learn and to pass the course but also to see if they are able to cope up with the remote education.

This kind of learning is not new.

What is new is that schools are embracing it, our formators should form to educate online by using authorized online resources. We must guarantee that the students even dividing their focus and adjusting in this distance learning, mental health of everyone should not be at risk.

Being a student and a future educator, I am encouraging everyone to open our hands and offer ourselves to one another.

Even we found the silver lining among the dark clouds, there are still students who cannot afford being online and this matter is another story to tell.

We have our teachers who can help us to adjust in this time of distress, all we have to do is to reach out for help and I am sure that they will extend their hand.”

28|OPINION

Tahip

“MENTAL STATE AT SAKE” Sage ex Machina

Princes Josephine B. Latuja News Editor BSEd English 3A princeslatuja@icloud.com

DAMAGES. Many students experienced mental and emotional breakdowns, overthinking, and depression.

Mental health problems here in the Philippines were not always accepted, but we must be aware of its importance especially in this time of the pandemic.

our heartbeat increased every second of the slow internet connection while holding our breath as if we were about to die, thinking if we could pass the test or if we let our parents down because we failed.”

Everything that had happened in the past six months was really unexpected. As if the freedom we had in our hands was snatched by an awing proceeding. The infamous Coronavirus disease-2019, also known as Covid-19 created a huge impact all over the world, causing everyone anxiety in our daily lives. Everybody was at risk; no one could say when, where, or how we could be infected by the disease.

The risk of being infected by the virus had brought unexpected and surreal challenges that burdened different sectors in our country. The Education sector in the economic subdivisions have been paralyzed by the medical dilemma. According to UNESCO (2020), 28 million from the 1.2 billion learners around the world were from Philippines; the educational institutions were closed to prevent the spread of the contagious disease (UNESCO, 2020), thereby the educational sector in our country adapted the “new normal” and continued the school year amid the pandemic.

In higher education institutions, CHED (2020) had given academic freedom to State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) to implement distance learning and other alternative modes of learning. SUCs like Bulacan Agricultural State College (BASC) started implementing online, modular, and blended learning that provided the students the freedom

to choose which type of learning they preferred, however, neither of the options were easy for the students as it took physical and mental preparation to attain the expected learning outcome and the quality of education.

One’s mental health is essential considering that it greatly impacts physical health. These two things can never be separated and crucially important for survival.

According to Dr. Bernard Argamosa, a psychiatrist in National Center for Mental Health (NCMH), they received an average of 30 to 35 calls per day up to 400 calls per month amidst the lockdown period, suggesting that peoples’ emotional health are unstable due to the anxiety-related concern of the pandemic.

Apparently, not all students are privileged to join the online classes, not all students have access to laptops, cellphones, and internet connection. The money to buy load is also a huge problem, or some students may have the money for internet connection, yet the poor signal is their main struggle which results in unwanted disconnection during the live synchronous discussions.

Moreover, students have to deal with stress from the seemingly endless assignments required to be submitted every other day or weekly. It was pleasure if the instructors were born kind-hearted, allowing

submissions every other week.

Nevertheless, the quizzes and exams with a time limit gave us the most pressure specifically when the data connection was limited; our heartbeat increased every second of the slow internet connection while holding our breath as if we were about to die, thinking if we could pass the test or if we let our parents down because we failed.

Additionally, it was very disheartening that some students dropped out of school because they lack possessions needed for online classes. As a result, many students experienced mental and emotional breakdowns, overthinking, and depression.

Mental health problems here in the Philippines were not always accepted, but we must be aware of its importance especially in this time of the pandemic.

Students are not just students; we are also daughters and sons who live a life outside online class. We may look happy in your eyes on Facebook, but that does not mean we feel utterly fine.

We have been through a lot of emotional and mental breakdowns in this situation, thus we plea for consideration and patience. We want to survive this pandemic like everyone else did, and we want to survive mental illness. We want to live peacefully with our families and friends. We need your help.

Yes, we ask for help.

S-PULSE|29

Tahip Pulse on Students’ Mental Health “One thing that made this complicated situation easy is the support of my family, friends and some of my instructors. Through the moral supports I receive from them, I know I will be able to fully adapt to the current crisis and survive this pandemic with a diploma in my hand.”

—Alden22

“I love studying, but I cannot consider that I am happy with this kind of learning. Sometimes, I am thinking about giving up. But, how can I save the future if I would give up this early? That is why, I am willing to do everything for the people, for the youth. As long as the future ahead of us will be better, no obstacles would break me.”

—Alezandra V. Vinculado, BSEd English 1A

“Upang makasabay ay iniisip ko na lamang ang huling araw ng pagpapasa ng mga ipinapagawa upang makausad, at hindi ang pagkatuto.”

—Angela Tracy G. Clarin, BEEd 2A

“Online class alone is a torture for me, for my wellbeing, because I was not used to this type of learning, and I’d choose face to face classes anytime if I had a choice. I think, one word can describe all of my thoughts and feelings about online class and pandemic. That one word is “draining”. Get this, tatambakan kami ng babasahin, magbabagsak ng mga gawain without even teaching the content of the materials they uploaded (applies to those who don’t even meet us via any video call media).

Alam ko naman, lahat tayo nagaadjust, students man o teachers, pati magulang natin nag aadjust din. Pero kasi, sino ba talagang talo rito? Sino ba talagang lugi rito? Di ba kaming nga estudyanteng hindi nagkakaroon ng quality learning dahil we are only being forced to pass any requirements to be given by our teachers? Anong mangyayari samin kapag hindi kami nagpasa?

Babagsak. Anong gagawin namin para di bumagsak? Gagawa, pero may natutunan ba kami?

Oo meron naman, pero hindi ganun ka-quality yung natututunan namin.”

—Nathaniel Gandeza, BSABEn 3

“Sobrang stress na stress na sa lahat, lalo na sa’kin, may sakit ako sa puso.

Napupuyat kakagawa ng walang katapusang activities. Kahit may time management na, nagkukulang pa rin ang oras ng isang buong araw.

Sabay-sabay na gawain sa school tapos sabay-sabay na utos sa bahay.”

—Luna, BSABEn 2

Akala ko sa una lang mahirap kasi syempre mag-aadjust ka sa bagong pamamaraan ng pagkatuto, pero habang tumatagal pala mas lalong humihirap, mali ako ng akala.”

—Jewel Mae Latoza, BEEd 3A

“Para sakin ang solusyon para mabawasan ang labis na epekto nito sa ating mental health ay, time management. Gawin agad kung ano yung ibibigay na gawain, huwag hayaan na tumagal ng tumagal at masabay sa iba.”

—Pearly Jane Abillanoza, BSBA-3B

“Everytime that I cannot understand the lesson I feel like I am not good and it makes me doubt my capabilities.”

—JSB, BSBA 3B

“Hinay-hinay lang po, daytime may online session na tapos sa gabi kailangan pa naming tapusin yung mga activities na binibigay niyo.

Pambihira, anak din po kami na minsan hindi na rin nakakasabay sa hapagkainan matapos lang ang mga pinagagawa niyo. Tao po kami hindi robot. Although I totally understand that you are only doing your job, please have mercy.”

—Princes Josephine Latuja, BSEd English 3A

Pulse on Working Students “Kahit saang anggulo tingnan, hindi madaling pagsabayin ang pag-aaral at pagkayod. Tatayo at magbebenta habang nakikinig sa itinuturo at sinasabi ng guro. Sa kabilang banda, bagamat isang malaking hamon ang isingit ang trabaho para makapagpatuloy sa pag-aaral, nairaraos at pipiliting maiusad ang pag-asang makasabay sa gitna ng new normal at online class.”

“As a working student nahihirapan din talaga ako kasi nga nagtatrabaho ako sa umaga tapos sa hapon aral naman, tapos ‘pag may free time aral ulit. Mahirap lang din pag nagsabay-sabay yung mga gawain dahil tulad ngayon need ko pa mag-leave para makapagpasa or makapag submit ng activities at assignments, etc.”

—aybeng (BSBA-3B)

—JR. P. Domingo, BSBA 1C

“Ang pinaka struggle ko lang talaga is example katulad nung isa kong professor, ‘di niya ako binigyan ng chance makapag-take ng na-missed kong task, then siguro dahil wala pa akong letter na naipapakita kaya hindi niya ako binigyan ng consideration.”

—Jean Carly Pastrana, DVM 1A

“As an online seller, i’m having a hard time responding to inquiries and dealing with my customers because it’s hard to balance my time. I think that the online class isn’t for everyone and I think that they didn’t consider the fact that not everyone is privileged enough to cope up with this new mode of learning.”

—Crystal May M. Flores, BEEd 2B

“Ayokong huminto sa pag-aaral sapagkat nais ko ng makagraduate ako on time para makahanap ako ng mas magandang opportunity pa sa trabaho kapag ako ay graduate na ng 4-year course. Mas kailangan kong magtrabaho para matustusan yung mga gastusin ko sa pang araw-araw gayundin sa online class, sapagkat sarili ko lang ang mayroon ako dahil ulila na ako sa magulang. Hindi ko pwedeng sukuan ang pangarap ko.”

— Rochieee (BSBA-3B)

“‘Yong trabaho ko kasi ay ako yung kailangan maghanap ng tao, hindi ako yung lalapitan ng tao. Oo laking pasasalamat ko na lang na hindi naman ako inaagad ng mga teacher ko na magpasa agad ng mga activities, kaso ang hirap lang hindi ko nasasabayan ‘yung mga classmates ko. At natatambakan na ko ng gawain dahil halos sunud-sunod din magbigay.”

—Nicarro

“Kung tutuusin mas mahirap pa ito kaysa sa dati noong hindi pa online class, mas kontrolado ko ang oras ko noon hindi gaya ngayon na inaabot ako ng madaling araw dahil sa tambak na gawain.”

—denden, BSIT 3A

“Ang hirap magfocus at ang hirap balansehin ng oras. Hindi naman pwedeng ihinto yung trabaho kasi malaking bagay na ‘yung pangload o panggastos lalo na sa panahon ngayon.

Nakakasabay naman ako bilang working student sa pagpapasa, paggawa ng activities. Yun nga lang hindi ko masabing natututo ako sa online class, ang hirap din kasi minsan kapag ikaw lang mismo aaral sa mga lesson.”

—Humphrey Yvonne Cabrera, BSAM 2A

“In my current experience, my teachers agree with those who work but in my opinion, I can learn nothing if I am not always in class. Right now, with so much difficulty managing time at work and study, I thought of quitting my job because I went to class almost every day. I thank the Lord for not leaving me alone.”

—PANGHILOD

30|EDITORIAL

Duterte vs. Facebook

Farcicality keeps the imprudent display of travesty.

Considering not only the administration’s incompetence in the domain of legislations, but also its ineffectiveness in taking action against the alarming cases of COVID-19 in the Philippines, president Duterte now cries foul over Facebook, for removing pages and accounts he claims to help the government espouse good of the people.

Facebook runs as the largest social media platform in the Philippines next to nothing, the social media giant that grants multiple opportunities for Filipinos to live through with.

Despite of the disturbing cases of pandemic in the country, the president once again, sidetracked by questioning Facebook in its legitimacy to operate in the country after removing pages that conduct “coordinated inauthentic behavior,” as the pages in question are allegedly publicizing misinformation and targeting anti-DDS supporters.

Here and now, not only the president releases a

mouthful blast but also the palace protests about rights to free speech they believe to contrast with Facebook’s community policies.

The Duterte administration condemns Facebook as it deleted the controversial pages and accounts. Vivid in our minds is the memory of the government ordering to shut down one of the nation’s biggest network and now they plead for the supremacy of freedom of speech. Its true that you get served what you deserve.

The revolution of the senselessness never stops.

The government nowadays cannot discern legitimate accounts used for spreading information and troll pages linked with the military that never halt to praise the administration by feeding the online media with falsity. Freedom of speech does not equate to perpetuation of misinformation, de facto, freedom ends when someone disrupts democracy whilst falsifying truth for political advantage. Advocating lies remains a dishonor for expressing the freedom of discourse.

Whereas being suspended by Facebook, Malacañang did not even mouthed a word about the accounts deleted by criticizing the government rigidly, including the account of well-known comedian and activist, Mae Paner. The

Freedom of speech does not equate to perpetuation of misinformation, de facto, freedom ends when someone disrupts democracy whilst falsifying truth for political advantage.” platform evidently stated that these pages use fake accounts used to spread false information and not due to its content.

The palace believes that defiance is the only way forward to counter the attacks brought by the online platform. With this, the House of Representatives is set to scrutinize Facebook to determine if the action is intended to start a war in the country. It was quoted that the action took by Facebook is a direct mode of overthrowing the Duterte administration.

Another gag was brought to us by the government as they prioritized the critiques over the current state of the country while struggling against the pandemic. Now, more than ever, is the time to think if we, the people of this country are the priority. Now, more than ever, is the time to focus on the dilemma we are facing.

Do not be abstracted for Facebook is not a threat, but an incompetent government is lethal.

Tahip