what’s inside P04 NEWS OPINION REIGNITING TORCH: The Spark is Back
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Give a Break
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Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus |
by Carl Mikel Dator
FEATURES
TURN INtegration
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Pillars of Success
VOLUME XI ISSUE I September - December 2021 www.thespark.wordpress.com thespark.censlsu@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/thespark.slsu
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Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
news
CEn bags 3rd overall on SLSU-CAF; Pascua keeps Instrumental Solo gold by Kycie Roxas
Aldrin Pascua GOING FOR GOLD. Armed with confidence and mastery in playing the guitar, Pascua reclaims the championship title during the Instrumental Solo competition.
Better Normal; EASTS-TSSP-MSC boarded a TRANSMIT 2021 by Ricky Tormes
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EASTS-TSSP-MSC, hosted the Transportation Summit 2021, with a theme“Pioneering Transport Safety System towards the Better Normal” on November 20, 21, and 28, 2021. TRANSMIT 2021 is an event for transportation sciences and innovation towards prudent transport and to promote a better, safer mode of transportation, especially in this current state of struggle.
Newly registered ECEs and ECTs solders October 2021 Licensure Exam by Jushua Ramos
SLSU produced an overall passing rate of 26.92% and 62.50% in the recently concluded October 2021 electronics engineer and electronics technician licensureexamination, respectively. Amidst of the pandemic, seven (7) newly registered electronics engineers and ten (10) electronics technicians of the university remain dedicated against the unpredictable changesin the licensure examination schedule.
PIIE CSC holds its First Ever Online Christmas Fair by Charlotte Sante
Philippine Institute of Industrial Engineers - CALABARZON Student Chapter(PIIE-CSC) uplifts the spirit of Christmas as they launched their very first online Christmas fair with the theme, “REWIND: Bringing Back Memories into the New Normal,” held on December 11-12, 2021. The main highlight of the said event was the benefit concert where various local artists and bands like Adie, Nobita, The Ridleys, CLUBS, Minaw, Elli Monade...
Garnering medals across multiple categories, College of Engineering (CEn) lands 3rd overall in the Southern Luzon State University Culture and Arts Festival (SLSU-CAF) heldSeptember 22-24. College of Teacher Education (CTE) grabs 1st with 70 points followed by College of Administration, Business. Hospitality, and Accountancy (CABHA). CEn kept it close to CABHA gathering a total of six medals, one gold, three silver, and two bronze, allying to 48points and securing 3rd place overall. Representing CEn, Aldrin Pascua claimed another gold medal making him theback-toback champion in Musical: Instrumental Solo (Guitar). As his winning piece Pascua played “Minamahal Kita” by M. Villarde Jr. and made its message reach the judges and students across colleges and campuses with its unique tune and melody. “…it took me a while before I decided to join the competition, I just thought that it’sbeen a while since I played a guitar, and it gave me motivation to play again and win thecategory,” Pascua said. In the musical category, Pascua was accompanied by Julius De Mesa and the duo Brix Lester Aranilla and Cassandra Orobia who represented CEn in Pop Solo and Vocal Duet, respectively. Showcasing her extravagant moves and passion in performing, solo representative in the Dance: Hiphop category, Venus Cubilo danced her way to 2nd place claiming a silvermedal for CEn. Making her debut as a logo design artist, Izza Mae de Guzman obtained a bronze medal in the Digital Logo Contest.De Guzman was accompanied by Oscar Nantes who represented CEn in Charcoal Rendering. Equipped with great voice and writing prowess CEn representatives in Literary arts category claimed two silver medals and one bronze.
Cen Fuel participants ignite pride in GAD, sparks in STRAW by Charlotte Sante
College of Engineering students raised the pride flag in the recently wrapped upGender and Development (GAD) & Students’ Rights and Welfare (STRAW) Competition that was organized by the SLSU Supreme Student Council Federation (SSCF) last December 3, 2021. Sean Carlo G. Flores, BSCpE freshie, reigned as the next best person in GAD Advocacy Video Competition with the theme, “Beyond Attribution: Gender and Development Inclusivity in SLSU”, as he highlighted that sharing and respecting gender pronouns within the campus is a bare minimum that everyone must acknowledge. Voicing out the multifaceted reality of the lives of students in the face of COVID-19, Marc Justin Joco, BSEE-III, and Ian Pabon Loba, BSME-III, showcased their prowess in rhythm and rhyme in the STRAW Tik-Talk Poetry Contest that revolves around the theme, “Upholding Freedom of Speech and Expression Amidst Pandemic.” The two said activities were launched by the SLSU SSCF as part of the GAD &STRAW webinar as they aimed to provide an avenue for students to unveil their skills in content creation that promotes inclusivity and freedom of expression within SLSU campuses. Marking the successful end of the event, the SLSU SSCF adviser reminds the studentsto maintain their firm stance as they advocate for inclusivity and break the barriers that suppress the freedom of expression of the members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
CEn lands at 2nd spot overall in SciTech Week 2021 by Ericka David
College of Engineering (CEn) bagged multiple awards as they ranked overall second place during the Science and Technology Week last Sept. 13-17. CEn’s Scilympics representatives secured the first place as a group composed of Aika Caballes (BSCpE-II), Josep Anthony Palad (BSCpE-II), Jim Aldrin Medrano (BSCpE-III), John Raymart Costales (BSME-IV), John Del De Guzman (BSEE-III), Neraden Reforma (BSIE-III), Catherine Cate Osongco (BSCE-II) and Pamela Joy Panganiban (BSIE-III). Armed with writing prowess, John Robert Balbarosa (BSECE-II) dominated against his contenders during the Sanay-Sci competition. Meanwhile, Josep Anthony Palad (BSCpE-II) obtained second place with his imaginative content for his entry in the TikTok Video Spoof Competition. “I would like to express my gratitude to all the Engineering students who participated in the SciTech week and represented our college. I am very proud of all of you! Let’s keep the fuel burning,” Ms. Jea Rañeses, CEn SC Governor, remarked. The SciTech Week 2021 was participated by contestants from different departmentsand campuses of Southern Luzon State University.
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Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
SLSU IIEE: 16th Regional Student Conference Champion by Andrea Racelis
The Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. (IIEE) SLSU Chapter was hailed as the 16th Regional Student Conference Champion, October 1417,2021. Preparing for the National Student Conference, the IIEE-Regional Council Student Chapter organized the 16th Regional Student Conference – focusing on the application of wits and skills of Electrical Engineering and Electrical Technology students. SLSU students bagged 1st place in Tiktok Challenge obtained by Edmar Pilar, and the Call of Duty Mobile Tournament participated by Gerome Adan, Samuel Anda, Oscar Barrun, Christian Roy Celeste, Rowvin Dalwampo and Cyrel Gahol. For the Mobile Legends Tournament, the group of Lordwin Abuel, Jake Añonuevo, John Michael Argosino, Luigee Daya, Jade Ramos and Edcel Saliendra got 3rd place. Attaining 4th place Regional Math Wizard, Reginald Caminero led the team composed of Marylene Alcantara, Michael Dimaandal, Clarence Emmanuelle A. Fabricante, and Carl Mynard Jalbuena. Showcasing students’ ability in Electrical Engineering and Mathematical subjects, SLSU IIEE concluded the Quiz Show at 7th place. Harley Dars Manay headed the team composed of Charlenne Cosejo, Christine Gabia, Katrina Mendoza, Vince Tanganim. Meanwhile, the Prose Writing Contest was participated by Melvin Villapando. Overwhelmed, Audrey Quirante, President of the IIEE- SLSU Chapter said, “… I was really shocked when they announced the overall champion - us, SLSU. I am so proud to be part of this victory.” This conference aims to strengthen the technical skills and knowledge of students academically and prepare them for future undertakings.
SLSU Quizzers dominates IECEP QPSC’s Quiz Show by Bethrina Carreon
“Everything is theoretically impossible until it is done.” by Jushua Ramos
- Robert A. Heinlein
With the recently concluded first-ever virtual Intercollegiate Research Conference, students from the College of Engineering bested other development papers with their “Voice to Sign Language Learning Kiosk” led by Gavien Nathaniel Tarrega, Fritz Emmanuel Flores, Re Ann Soronel, and research adviser, Mr. Jerwin Obmerga, held via Zoom video conference, September 15 – 16. “Ang sign language ang isa sa pinakamabisang paraan upang makipag-usap ang mga bingi at pipi sa ibang tao. Maraming tao ang hindi nakakaintindi at hindi marunong gumamit ng sign language kaya naisipan ng aming grupo na mag-develop ng mobile app kung saan madaling matututo ng sign language ang mga tao, dahil na rin isa sa pinakamabisa at laganap na platform ang mobile apps sa pagkatuto ng mga bagay sa panahong ito,” as per Tarrega. This development paper incorporates the knowledge of researchers in terms of programming and graphical user interface (GUI) design in building the project, placing their efforts to receive Php 5,000. Moreover, this triumph also means facing constructive criticism and growing from essential skills.
MEkanikals celebrate PSME-JU Days by Dan Mark Cabriga
With the theme “Future of Engineering: A World with Fewer Moving Parts,” Philippine Society of Mechanical Engineers – Junior Unit (PSME-JU) SLSU chapterconducted an event aimed to share technical skills and knowledge to every MechanicalEngineering student, December 4-5, 2021.
SLSU proudly presents 12 newly registered CEs by Neil Peras
With an overall passing rate of 25% in the November 2021 Civil Engineering Licensure Examination, Southern Luzon State University (SLSU) produced 12 newly registered civil engineers. Despite the pandemic and unpredictable changes in the examination schedule, 42% or 11 of the first takers passed the said licensure exam. Reported in the summary of results for CE exams conducted by the PRC in the previous years, the national passing rate of the civil engineering program declined from 43.18% to 36.67% and the number of takers decreased from 15,075 to 6,474.
EE students attend SLSU IIEE-SC technical webinar by Melvin Villapando
The Electrical Engineering students of Southern Luzon State University joined in thetechnical webinar hosted by the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers – Student Council (IIEE-SC) held last October 30. The webinar deals with the overhead distribution system design as presented by Engr. Mark Anthony Capinpin, as well as the calculator techniques by Engr. Judd Maverick Tan, ECT.
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Claiming their back-to-back victory, the quizzers of the Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines-SLSU Student Chapter (IECEP-SLSU SC) claimed the championship title in the IECEP Quezon Province SC’s 8th Bit the Bees Quiz Show, besting the quizzers of IECEP-Manuel S. Enverga Foundation SC, held via Discord and Facebook Live on November 6. With a 20 point lead against their competition, the SLSU Quizzers garnered a total of 69 points securing their spot in the IECEP National Student Summit 2021 Interscholastic Quiz Show on November 26 as IECEP Quezon Province’s representative. Trailing 7-5 points, the quizzers were 2 points behind in the Easy round, favoring the opposing team. The tables have turned as the SLSU team managed a 10-point lead at the end of the Average round. Securing their victory, the quizzers finished the Difficult round with 40 points, capping off the competition with a 20-point lead against the opposing team. The champions were six 4th-year Electronics Engineering students – Arthur Dechavez, Andrew John Edward Gaa, Kyl Justin Perez, John Fernand Racelis, Cristel Joyce Esmerna, and their team captain Jushua Ramos. “It was our last experience before the nationals and we are very happy to make it a back-to-back win,” Ramos stated. With utmost gratitude Ramos also thanked Engr. Rene Inson for accompanying them in the university during the entire show, and Engr. Maurine Panergo for her unending support. The quiz show is conducted annually, and its questions cover the topics of the following subjects: Mathematics, General Engineering and Applied Sciences (GEAS), Electronics Engineering (ELEX), and Electronics Systems and Technologies (EST).
Kierly Sanggalang
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SPARK
Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
REIGNITING THE TORCH:
The Spark is Back by Ericka David
The Spark
Armed with journalistic passion and eagerness to deliver the truthful and latest reports. Southern Luzon State University-College of Engineering (SLSU CEn) official student publication “The Spark” sets fire as they rise from their slumber, September 13. The publication had drawn to a close as the pandemic hit the country. With no budget to finance future activities and previous members have already graduated, no one was left to ignite the fire. SLSU CEn-SC Public Relations Officer, Kierly Zheeryne Sanggalang is among the proponents of the publication’s comeback in her platform for CEn “...and nung first year palang, I’ve been dreaming to be a part ng isang publication org, which I can improve sa writing and art, impart knowledge and awareness, saka I want to be a part of something where I can freely express and impart my works. Tas in the following years, naging aware ako sa state ng TS and nasa isip ko, since lilipat na din tayo ng main, as an officer, why not ibalik ko ulit ang TS? This is a much needed kasi lalo na’t pandemic, we need something powerful to be heard and to influence, this is also what we need para maging part ng awareness of information. Yun, all-in-all, I want our voices to be heard, amidst this pandemic, our voices are crucial lalo na’t different issues are happening,” Sanggalang stated in an interview. Part of the Engineering students expressed their opinions on the comeback of the Spark, Mia Caballe BSIE-III said in an interview “Para sa akin napakagandang opportunity sa mga students ng pagbabalik ng the spark dahil dito maipapakita ng students ang kanilang galing sa larangan ng pagsulat. Magandang way din ito para sa ibang estudyante na malaman ang opinyon ng bawat isa dahil ito ay nagsisilbing platform para maipahayag ang kanilang mga nais iparating sa bawat isa. This will also serves us the updates on the things happening in the school nd on our society”. Jayson Florendo from BSME-III express his excitement “..I’m an avid fan talaga ng The Spark ever since. Lalo na yung paleta nila I got a chance to read a lot of them sobrang solid. Kaya nung nabalitaan ko na babalik na ang The Spark sobra akong naoverwhelm kasi I’m looking forward talaga sa next na ipapublish nila,” Florendo stated. With the motto “Magsiyasat, Manindigan at Kumilos”, the Sparkistas together with SLSU-CEn will continue the journey as the official student publication of the engineering department.
Malaya at Mapagpalaya: Sinag, Former The Spark EIC by Alyana Urgelles
“Magsulat tayo nang malaya at mapagpalaya,” Former Editor-in-chief of The Spark Ms. Mela Sinag emphasized as she describes what the publication is known for. Ms. Sinag was one of the speakers in the online workshop spearheaded by The Spark that aims to enable the present staffers to learn more about ins and outs of the publication. The Spark staffers participated in the online workshop with the theme LAYAG AT ALAB: UPHOLDING THE SPARKISTA SPIRIT serving as their seminar as well as an orientation for the new members of the publication. The workshop was held with the participation of seven The Spark alumni staffers that served as the guest speakers namely: Katherine Cabalza, Paul Tabi, Marx Jendre Sabandana, Carlo Olyven Bayani, Mary Ann Bombay, John Ryan Banaag, and Maria Carmela Sinag. During the two-hour workshop, the alumni Sparkistas shared their experiences as an alumnus of the publication. They also encouraged the current The Spark squad to write freely. Mr. Bayani gave emphasis on the importance of collaboration and teamwork in a publication. He believed that a publication team would not work if there is no collaborative effort from everyone. Meanwhile, Mr. Tabi advised the current staffers to treat their pubmates as their family, someone they can rely on when they are having difficulty with their subjects. “Treat The Spark as a family and not just a publication,” he added. After their educational discussion, the alumni staffers presented some of their published Krapsikol and Paleta to serve as an inspiration for the next volumes that the current staffer will collaborate on. “Us being here to continue The Spark’s legacy is really something to be proud of,” with full enthusiasm, The Spark EIC, Nicole Mae Perez remarked. Kierly Sanggalang
HIGHLIGHTS. Former and current The Spark staffers virtually unite and participate in the online seminar and orientation.
The Spark Underground Files:
Extraordinary Stories from Engineering Students by Malana Cadaweng
The Spark Underground Files is a blog that serves as a platform for entertainment and informational communication. This publication is primarily interested in engineering students’ lives as they correlate to their experiences and developments. Furthermore, it was launched in this academic year with the new set of Editorial Board and staff in order to help the students with their rants and their extraordinary stories to unfold while sharing with others. Nonetheless, the identities of individuals who have sent their entries will be kept private in order to protect their privacy. Moreover, this project urges engineering students to be creative by allowing submission of topics that are humorous or interesting to the general audience. For the sake of safety, this blog advises everyone not to write any potentially hazardous information or opinion. This platform is conducive in these times due to the various circumstances that each student experiences on a daily basis. It serves as an open journal where they can publish their unspoken thoughts to gain support or opinions from others.
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VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
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Elloso: There is nothing sexier than being sexually responsible by Neil Peras
Certified DOH counselor Russel Elloso emphasized “there is nothing more sexy than being sexually responsible” and people are innately inclined to sex but they should know how to protect themselves during AAA: An HIV Awareness Forum that CEnSC hosted, 11 December 2021. With its theme “Aware, Abolish, Achieve”, the forum’s mission is to implement awareness towards the community, to abolish the growing stigma and discrimination towards the victims, and to achieve a healthy and harm-free academic environment for everyone. More than just giving light to the difference between HIV and AIDS, the forum aims to help students in learning and appreciating the significance of proper sex education to their health and well-beings. Dr. Lou Anthony Lobrefranca said that HIV testing in the Philippines is highly accessible. Local social hygiene clinics will accommodate anyone and promise the confidentiality of information - those who are being/will be tested will only know if they are HIV reactive or not. Moreover, Elloso mentioned that HIV testing in Quezon Medical Center (QMC) is free. QMC accepts walk-ins or scheduled appointments. If you don’t have time, FDA approved self care kits are readily available just visit and message loveyourself.ph. The forum encouraged the students to take part on fights against HIV/AIDS stigma and discrimination by a simple way of raising awareness and debunking myths and misinformation. Dr. Lobrefranca emphasized treating HIV infected individuals as you treat any other person treat them with respect.
Lance Capistrano
JUSTIFIED INSIGHTS. HIV Primary Care Dr. Lobrefranca urges the viewers to eliminate stigma and discrimination against HIV patients during the AAA: An HIV Awareness Forum.
CEnSC holds CONFIGURATION 2021: Upholding Unity; CEnSC launches CEn Moods 2021 A Mental Health Awareness Webinar College of Engineering Student Council holds CEn Moods 2021 with the theme “Revitalize the by Neil Peras
by Dan Mark Cabriga
College of Engineering — Student Council (CEnSC) organized a webinar titled CONFIGURATION 2021 that aims to improve the mental health awareness of engineering students, November 6, 8 AM to 3 PM. With the theme “Figures of Minds”, the webinar addresses the mental health issues of the College of Engineering students and provides ways on how they can cope with it. The idea of self-care and taking responsibility for one’s own mental health and wellbeing, with a focus on the fact that mental health is an essential component of health, as well as the concept of recovery from mental illness, are important concepts to bring to light in this webinar. Chelsea Versoza, Co-Founder of Mental Health Matters and Joana Fe B. Panganiban, RGC, Admission Officer, Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation are the invited speakers in the said webinar. Ms. Panganiban emphasized that, “Mental health is one of the most misunderstood terms in our society”. Furthermore, Ms. Panganiban explained that, “no two minds are the same but there is one big heart which signifies that as human beings we are capable of loving. Love is the most powerful force to eliminate bias and discrimination because love is always inclusive.” Ms. Versoza tackled the topic “Bawi, Bangon, Bukas na lang: In-Depth Discussion about Coping Mechanism”, she remarked that “the coping mechanisms that you pick are your own choices.” To apply what the speakers taught and know a little bit more on what is going on inside the heads of the attendees, a brainstorming activity was held. Then, the output was presented in the zoom meeting, hoping that the artists and the attendees would relate and realize that they are not alone.
roots; Amplify the moods”. CEn Moods aims to give insight about the ins and outs of the College of Engineering and create new bonds among this year’s batch of freshmen. CEn Moods is a newly introduced program in the College of Engineering that gives an overview of what the school can offer to uphold the freshmen’s instructive and individual objectives. Moreover, the teambuilding highlights different activities that help the freshmen interact and start to establish friendships that will last for a lifetime. The orientation proper was kicked off by an Oath taking ceremony of the newly elected and appointed officers of CEnSC. A virtual tour was then played for the freshmen to be a tad bit familiar with the campus. Following the virtual tour, the faculty and employees of College of Engineering were presented by the department chairpersons, namely: CE Chairperson Engr. Delia Diane Evangelista, CpE Chairperson Prof. Carla C. Ceribo, EE Chairperson, Engr. Maurino N. Abuel, ECE Chairperson Engr. Maurine C. Panergo IE Chairperson Prof. Lynnevel M. Amparo, and ME Chairperson Engr. John E. Tan. Then, the presentation of different local organizations took place, namely: College of Engineering Student Council (CEnSC), Philippine Institute of Civil Engineering (PICE), Eastern Asia Society for Transportation Studies – Transportation Science Society of the Philippines (EASTS-TSSP), Society of Computer Engineering Students (SCOPES), Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers Inc. (IIEE), Institute of Electronics Engineers of the Philippines (IECEP), Philippine Institute of Industrial Engineers (PIIE), Operations Research Society of the Philippines (OSRP), Philippines Society of Mechanical Engineers (PSME), and The Spark: Official Publication of the College of Engineering. As the guest speaker for CEn Moods, Engr. Lorenz Ann L. Villaverde, ECT Top 9 (ECE Board Exam 2019), delivered a motivational speech and emphasized that “It’s okay to not have it all figured out”. She also shared her board exam experience and gave insights as to how to deal with internal pressures. To end the first half of CEn Moods, Senator Niel Sadia extended his utmost gratitude and warmly welcomed everyone who participated in the said event. Looking forward to the team building, Arjhan Canales, a first year Civil Engineering student emphasized that “it will create bonds with other students... ito ang magiging way para mas maitayo namin ang bandera ng CEn”. The team building consisted of diverse activities, namely: Bring Me, 4 Pics 1 Word, Charades, Guess the Song, CEn Facts Quiz Bee and CENging Bee. These games aim to highlight key skills and explore the depths of students’ abilities. The teams are named after the Villages in Naruto, namely: “Amegakure” Mechanical Engineering, “Iwakagure” Electronics Engineering, “Kirigakure” Electrical Engineering, “Konohagakure” Industrial Engineering, “Kumogakure” Computer Engineering, and “Sunagakure” Civil Engineering. “Sunagakure” Civil Engineering was the overall champion followed by “Kirigakure” Electrical Engineering and “Kumogakure” Computer Engineering, 1st place and 2nd place respectively. Overwhelmed, CEnSC Vice Governor Wenith Yapana remarked “First event namin ito pero grabe yung success, ramdam namin na nag-enjoy bawat student”.
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Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
editorial
Masked Controversies
EDITORIAL
Curbing Corruption in the Midst of a Pandemic
At a time where selfless leadership is evidently needed amidst the cry of the suffering nation, the government, sadly, seemed to fail the sole purpose of true service and their denial grew obvious. In recent years, various news and allegations hit the country. Disappointingly, those are not news of bravery or Filipino courage, rather, those are sad reflections of what we have become in quest of distorted freedom and power. It is as if we are losing the treasures that we fought so hard for in the past, where death and suffering were nothing compared to the love that we could offer for the nation and its people, in exchange. During these darkest times, citizens of this nation need light to be guided and redirected. It is also the responsibility of each and everyone to see the truth and not be blinded by what is just on the surface. This tremendous happening is just a declaration of how polluted one political tactic is and the way they rise up in the middle of this crucial pandemic. With or without the current pandemic, issues and conflicts like corruption are not already new in the Philippines. One of the greatest scandals is the missing 15 billion pesos that is said to be disposed of in hospitals according to Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), where 98% are already liquidated as evidence, supporting the insurer’s claim that the controversial funds are not stolen– every financial transaction made is properly accounted for and utilized to aid Filipino’s health. However, liquidating funds is not synonymous to legal expenditure. At present, the Commission of Audit (COA) remains questioning those advance payments. It is just funny how people react to this through memes and other punchlines, yet it only signifies that some things like funds cannot be all liquidated when asked, and what more for those financial aid transactions that most people don’t understand. At this point, the real story behind this controversy stays masked, disfigured with the combination of the different narrations and versions of the people who may be fighting selflessly and those who only wanted to rise as if they were the truth. Even in this health crisis, corruption seems to continuously contaminate the minds of certain Filipinos, proving that it is indeed more difficult to combat than this coronavirus. At the height of the pandemic last 2020, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) suspended 89 barangay chairmen nationwide who were accused of irregular distribution of the government’s Social Amelioration Program or SAP intended for less fortunate families that were affected by the pandemic. The complaints revealed that those officials were neglecting the order through prioritizing their families, relatives and political allies in the distribution, asking for fees to process the financial aid, and dividing the funds to more than its intended capacity. What more on the anomalies that were not captured by the truth and justice? How could we rob the people who are already deprived of fortune? Breaking through the silence also is another set of alleged anomalies involving the Department of Health (DOH) last 2021, which Duterte strongly disproved its validity. The incumbent president insisted that the accusations of COA against the said department about their unmaximize funds is entirely nonsense. This is despite the surfacing reports that mention about (a) the failure to provide funds that would secure the 10 million doses of Pfizer vaccines during the critical supply rush to favor Sinovac vaccines; (b) the purchase of costly test kits and medical supplies and equipment; (c) the 67.3 billion-peso worth of spending deficiencies of DOH to respond to the health crisis. These might just be a few of all the anomalies that occurred even before and amidst the ongoing pandemic, but one thing is for sure: corruption does not only rob the money from the nation, but it poisons the mind and taints the hopes and dreams that could possibly may not be easily recovered even with a high dose of explanations and coated lies. Is this the kind of democracy we aimed for long ago?
EDITORIAL STAFF THE
SPARK EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ASSOCIATE EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR OFFICE AND CIRCULATION LITERARY EDITOR NEWS EDITOR SPORTS EDITOR ARTS AND GRAPHICS DIRECTOR PAGE DESIGN AND LAYOUT DIRECTOR ONLINE JOURNALISM EDITOR FEATURES & CULTURE WRITERS Ashley Caringal, Ericka David, Diana Abdon, Jeric Alcañeses, Johndel Duller, Kycie Roxas, Malana Cadaweng NEWS & SPORTS WRITERS Alyana Urgelles, Andrea Racelis, Charlotte Sante, Dan Cabriga
Nicole Perez Jushua Ramos Raiza Antenor Bethrina Carreon Inah Perez Neil Peras Melvin Villapando Fionnah Gavierez Lance Capistrano Jansen de Silva LAYOUT ARTISTS Kierly Sanggalang, Josep Anthony Palad, Fernando Jose Padulina GRAPHIC ARTISTS Carl Mikel Dator, Paolo Lavadia
PHOTOJOURNALISTS Aldrin Pascua, Gio Villano PUBLICATION ADVISER Engr. Pitz Gerald Lagrazon
Better Luck Next Time In a typical classroom setup, whether face-to-face or online, failure has become a part of the life of an engineering student. Being a college student, I have observed that every student has their own way of overcoming a failing mark in a particular test, and some of them have a poor mindset that hinders their chance to still move forward. Every student knows the familiar feeling of walking out of the examination room and discussing how it went. Upon receiving a failing score, it is either the student joins the conversation and laughs at the whole process or avoids all the discussion of what just happened. It is just annoying that some students tend to compare their scores, making the one who failed a failure indeed. However, there are instances when it is nice to compare your scores to know your capability and how you should improve for the betterment of yourself. Some students who failed the test cannot get over with their low score. In my perspective, this will not let them move forward because they get stuck thinking about the situation where they failed, deliberating every question they have missed. Sometimes, it is better to let it go than continuously imagining how you miserably failed.
BULL'S EYE Melvin Villapando
Some failures are even more triggered with a sudden feeling of sadness. Apart from sad emotions, the feeling of anxiety and pressure from the other people can also influence failures. As a defense mechanism for such frustrations, some students prefer to get drunk by alcohol to ease the pain inside. In some way, this serves as their way to burst out their emotions. On the other hand, this act does not seem like the right idea since alcohol is associated with health risks. Regular exercise, hanging out with friends, or staying calm and inspired with your passion are better options to try. Most of the engineering students would probably prefer to move on because studying the course is already a risk to take. Every student should always be prepared to fail because aside from the difficulty of studying, the real deal does not lie in the amount of times you fail. Rather, it is how many times you survive that failure in order to learn and move forward. If you did the best you could, then there is nothing more you could do. Exerting your best is more than enough. Valuing the efforts you have done can make a difference to yourself. At the end of the day, it still depends on the students on how they should handle the situation whenever they encounter failures. It is just a matter of assessing what went wrong and the plan to improve it — a learning opportunity and not a definition of what you really are.
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VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
TURNING POINT Nicole Perez
The truth about fake news
Mankind is in an endless quest for truth. In order to determine whether something is true or not, we must continuously gather information. In today’s era, information regarding vast issues could easily be accessed by almost everyone. Being a part of a generation wherein the age of technology has modernized even more, I have noticed that some individuals are still not aware of how to utilize it appropriately. Throughout the years, I realized that it is significant to consider everyone as potential learners and information consumers. The importance of fact checking highlights that we should learn to be skeptical for our own survival. It is absurd on numerous levels that the current administration is undeniably linked upon being a propagator of fake news. Some politicians seize on this opportunity and abuse their power. Indeed, this is an escalation in the harassment of the media which is inconsistent with the Philippines’ obligations and duties to promote and protect the freedom of expression of the nation as a whole. Consciously or unconsciously, the media has been influenced by the rapid spread of fake news that often reaches headlines and competes with fake and satirical headlines. Personally, I believe such headlines can be alarming since their objective is to trigger emotional responses from viewers. Unfortunately, social media has as though eliminated the primary filter of journalists as truth tellers. With an overwhelming quantity of fake news lavishly circulating across social media websites, it becomes hard for us to distinguish fact from fiction particularly with the existence of deliberate misinformation and hoaxes. Upon looking closely at these alleged fake news, we would view that some of it contains political undertones or the so-called “journalistic biases”. Normally, when we encounter such, we often create our own biases in our minds. Sometimes, we choose to take a stance and upon sharing that certain news, it becomes
Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
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somehow opinionated. Despite such incidents, we should gradually master how to eliminate biases and completely depend on facts. In my perspective, in order for people to really understand or grasp the idea of the news and to avoid confusion to the public, the information that we share should be well researched, fact-based, and not opinion-based. It is advised to do some digging and check credible sources at all times. In politics, there is no doubt that the role of the media is essential. I can recall that in one discussion in our class, arguments about media manipulation were raised. In connection to this, I have suspicions about the validity and reliability of the Social Weather Stations’ (SWS) survey that is usually mentioned in the news. This goes along with the evidence suggesting that some of the surveys conducted during previous elections revealed that some respondents are legitimate and some are not. Moreover, another connected issue here is how some die-hard supporters of other political candidates merely base their claims on TikTok videos which is obviously a platform that does not tell the entire story and is prone to fake news. Being viral or possessing numerous likes and shares does not guarantee being fed by the truth.
We must practice having a critical eye while scrolling through social media outlets. Presently, reporting with 100% factual data appears burdensome since it is sometimes more convenient for authors or journalists to select a side or simply acquiesce with the issue. Critical engagement with the media is necessary in order to separate oneself from falsehood and be able to avoid propaganda. We must practice having a critical eye while scrolling through social media outlets. Given that some online articles are riddled with hidden agendas or biases, they should also learn how to carefully examine and understand the information presented to them. Furthermore, readers must bear in mind that some media outlets or authors are sometimes manipulated and controlled by the same persons that they are reporting about which is why we encounter difficulties with identifying whether journalistic reports are entirely factual or not. As a journalist, I believe that it is my duty to speak for the truth and shine light on the issues concerning our country’s welfare, most especially during dark times. The cost of unveiling society’s truths is treating biases as challenges and seeing through a world covered with inauthenticity.
greatest number of people would be the winner in the election. Second call. Although the official campaign periods are yet to commence, political candidates seem to have begun their quest to publicize their candidacy. There are those who are distributing relief Raiza Antenor goods, just in time for the holiday season. There are those who are launching scholarships or pangkabuhayan programs. While these services are absolutely beneficial for the people, we could admit that these things are being used, perhaps by some, as strategies to win people’s trust. Who wouldn’t want goods and benefits? But, if these things are only done for the sake of popularizing their names and would You pick one and you have to face them for the next several years. Whose call would you be lending your wandering heart and entrust the just turn into ashes after the election, we may want to assess and ask ourselves whether it is worth it to choose them or not. future of the country, locally and nationally? Third call. Amidst the ongoing threat of the Coronavirus Disease, with a In less than a year—in the month of May 2022— the Filipinos will new variant trying to surface, the visible decrease of Covid-19 cases in the once again hold an undeniably powerful and significant stand that country during the past weeks has paved the way for political candidates to would engrave their hope for real transformation and change—is it? find opportunities for the traditional, in-person events. Some personalities Despite the ongoing cries of the pandemic and other societal issues, the political landscape and noise are resurfacing and finding its way to are conducting rallies to meet people from different locations and see them face-to-face. While these rallies make people feel the bareness and warmth the minds of the Filipinos, as Election Day approaches. Indeed, the politics in the Philippines is continuously shifting. Bolder, and test the sincerity of the political candidates, it is also in these rallies, fiercer, wiser?— that, honestly, I’m not sure. But one thing is definitely where, though not always, money is being used to capture people’s interest in secret. certain. Politics has become a den where different personalities Fourth call. Ironically, we are living in the technological age where are thriving, fighting fiercely to claim a position in the government. information is just a few clicks away through the internet and social Most would say they come with the intention of igniting their burning media, yet it becomes tougher and harder to refine and gather the passion for serving the Filipino and the country, with the purpose truth. However, we could not deny the fact that social media, when of being the bridge that would transform help to people especially utilized effectively, could be a winning formula for a political candidate during tough times, with the heart to represent the unheard and less to influence the public opinion regarding the upcoming elections. With fortunate. the accessibility and convenience of social media, it has become an ‘Hindi po ako nangangako, pero gagawin ko po ang aking lubos na advantageous platform to capture people’s attention. As a matter of fact, it was deemed that President Duterte’s surprising victory in the last Politics has become a den where different 2016 election can be linked to his popularity that skyrocketed and was personalities are thriving, fighting fiercely greatly amplified by the use of social media campaigns that disseminate to claim a position in the government. messages in support of his policies and propaganda all throughout the Philippines’ cyberworld. And today’s situation is not different. Just makakaya. Para sa’yo. Para sa bansa at bayan…’ recently, according to PUBLiCUS Asia, Inc., news consumption through First call. The announcement of the Bongbong-Sara tandem, I social media accounts to 78.8% of their total respondents. With the think, gained various reactions from the public. It might have been increased popularity of social media, the use of these technological an unexpected alliance from the two popular names in the country. means as a stage is a choice for the political personalities to present Bongbong, being a Marcos and Sara, being a Duterte. Some analysts themselves and their propaganda once put in the position. have regarded this tandem as a political strategy, aiming for a Majority of political candidates, if not all, would try every way possible formidable partnership, for a strong bond that could possibly acquire to reach out to the Filipinos, and win their votes. Indeed, the 2022 people’s hearts. But, who knows if it would really be an effective election is another tight and critical point. Nevertheless, as voters, it tactic? On the other hand, alliances, in general, have always been is our sole responsibility to listen carefully, increase our awareness part of the Philippine elections, along with party list engagement of the truth and avoid misinformation, to help us decide who among of the political candidates. Having alliances and party lists help the candidates to gain more and wider influence. After all, whoever has the the candidates deserve to be chosen and given the power. Remember,
INCOMING CALL
Democracy at stake
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Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
SENTINEL
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
opinion
STANDPOINT
Inah Perez
Jansen de Silva
Feces and a 24/7 Buffet
Give a break
You were treated to a buffet where you can get all you want and eat all you want. A very inviting scenario welcomed you where there were a wide range of flavors and cuisines. Excited as you were, you sat there with gleaming eyes anticipating how you can get everything in. A feeling of gratefulness suddenly slipped, having the privilege to have a free taste of everything there was, until you had your first bite. Twitching, aching stomach – a familiar sensation crept in after you had an awful taste of your first try. You wanted to throw up for what you thought was prerogative was just a ruse. Not wanting to squander the opportunity, you decided to try at least what appeared to be tolerable. Trying to keep your cool, you agreed to just digest everything they offered until you’ve had enough. Who would have thought that getting full could be overwhelming? Cold sweats, goosebumps and back at it again with a twitching and aching stomach you dashed to the nearest restroom, immediately pulled your pants down, sat erect on the toilet bowl and with deep breaths and a good timing of exertion, you bulge your stomach out and found a good sense of relief afterwards. It was a resounding success. The same may be said of the numerous activities that we as students are subjected to. As we talk about freebies, and as a student at a state university college, I can’t help but feel overwhelmed by the veiled privilege concealed behind the university’s free tuition expenses. We appear to have no choice but to take anything they serve because we are given the opportunity to study for free. Right now, I’m not sure if these activities would be genuinely beneficial in the long run, or if they’re just being used to give the professors something to put on their records in order to mark us. But do they provide what they could provide, or are they simply doing what they’re doing to show that they have something to offer? It’s not that you don’t appreciate the offer; it’s just that you miss the genuine feel of academic learning. It seemed as though you had lost the opportunity to have fun and enjoy the delightful taste of education while studying online. It is undeniably flavorless and purposeless. The activities give us a taste of an experimental endeavor to pursue education despite the need for caution and a break to rest and digest things, if not everything. Hence, the lack of appetite to complete the activities. I only have an average knowledge of feces, and aside from the fact that it is horrible, I am certain that everyone poops. It may not be a comfortable topic to discuss, especially at the dinner table, but it’s utterly normal and a necessary body function in response to digestion. Surprisingly, the way I see poop is the same way I see my outputs for each activity I’ve accomplished. The same feeling we get when we discharge waste from our system is the same reaction we obtain when dealing with the overloaded activities. Critical. It’s funny how our activities give us the creeps in the same manner that our poop gives us the shivers and makes us sweat like a machine. Our grades have the potential to change into a thin flat air if we fail to comply, just as holding our excrement can be problematic due to the possibility of turning it into an embarrassing fart. We don’t like it when things turn into a gaseous substance; we love concrete much more, therefore we resort to shitting on things once and for all. Unpredictable. Activities swarm our google classroom at an inconvenient time, much like tummy problems. It’s almost 12 a.m., and I’ve just accomplished an activity due today as per my late dinner and just in time when I’m about to sleep, a notification chimed. Apparently, I’ve been offered a midnight snack from the same professor, and because I had a lot to digest today and the menu arrived at the most inconvenient hour of the day, my mind’s initial reaction is to simply shit at it once more. Comforting. Finally, the only delightful feeling we get when we defecate is a sense of satisfaction and relaxation as a result of our efforts and performance. The euphoria we experience when we cross something off our to-do lists works in the same manner. The end result is always a resounding triumph, even if the process is dreadful to look at. Despite the fact that the outcome is unappealing, it has never failed to scream of success. With this, I arrived at the conclusion that a 24/7 buffet may seem appealing but proves to be useless when our system decides to decline. It is important for the university to understand that students must have had a slow metabolism to digest and process the lessons and adding more to an already filled plate would not be of help. Once our system declines, our body’s defense mechanism is to shit things out, especially when the activities get out of hand.
It has been two years in this online setup of learning since the pandemic began. Education seems to be more challenging and draining for the students especially for those who are suffering from different mental health problems. Imagine sitting online for weeks, paying for internet, and visiting computer shops all for the sake of compliance, while families struggle and others go without food, just worrying about how to get by each day. Thus, integration week for each term must be implemented for the sake of students’ health because above all, holistic welfare of the students is the most important.
Not all students are privileged for a good mental health status and not having a break in academics trigger their depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Most of the students find this burnout to be challenging to their academics. Students of Southern Luzon State University from different colleges and campuses are calling the university for academic break in each term. Aside from having the three terms for a semester this academic year, the university also decided to only have integration week in the final term. This major change appears that the university is more focused on giving quality education without considering the conditions of the students who are struggling to survive each day of online class. Not all students are privileged for a good mental health status and not having a break in academics trigger their depression, anxiety, and loneliness. Most of the students find this burnout to be challenging to their academics. The Vice President for Academic Affairs asked why there is a need for integration week when the performance of the students is satisfactory in terms of numbers of Dean’s Lister. But academic excellence and academic breakdown are not on the same page, they are of both different stories. Academic standing is not a reflection of students’ mental health status. The university must understand the hardships of the students to get there and must not only use the result as their basis for their decisions. Moreover, as part of the solution in the request for integration week, the university is approving webinars conducted by different school organizations discussing the mental health problems. It is all good that they care for the students but the problem is instead of having a break for the weekend, students are sitting in front of their devices attending these webinars. Students are shouting for academic break not for
The university is very much eager to give their students the best and quality education as it is one of the goals of the university, to be a center of teaching excellence and to have a wider platform for students. But with this situation, is this education still considered as best and quality where students are pity seeking for understanding of the university and are just doing tasks just for the sake of compliance? webinars that consume their rest during weekends. In addition, they are allowing the conduct of the survey but nothing happens after having the result. Students are tired of answering survey forms because they know that it will just end in nothing. The university is very much eager to give their students the best and quality education as it is one of the goals of the university, to be a center of teaching excellence and to have a wider platform for students. But with this situation, is this education still considered as best and quality where students are pity seeking for understanding of the university and are just doing tasks just for the sake of compliance? Quality education is not just about having the best teachers to teach, best facilities to cater the needs of the students, there must be a consideration of the students’ welfare. Education is nothing if the students lose their eagerness and passion to learn. Students want integration not to escape with the activities but to somehow free their minds from depression and anxiety. Education is a right but crisis response entails valuing human lives.
opinion
THE
SPARK
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
REVELATION Jushua Ramos
Used To Know With the shift from physical to virtual, are things becoming more accessible or just being less effective? From months that turned years, can one count themselves as the same eager-beaver students just like back then? Given this ever-changing situation, how long should we sacrifice our state just to maintain the same capability and interest we had invested at the initial point? Since the first day, maybe one is not pretty aware of the situation. Until days passed by and become used to living with another dimension of the era – virtual setting. Schools from different levels and even universities and colleges are extremely affected, and now those dark days are starting to be over. But this realization takes over every student’s mind, wondering if they even learn from the past months given the environment and overall setting they had in their base. Most importantly, if this virtual situation can land them to at least pass or even ace board examinations, certifications, and into being real professionals. All of this matters since the online class is the new hub of learning and its effectiveness is at stake. We never thought that one day, the entire physical rooms will go virtual in discussions, meetings, consultations, and even being in a work from home setup. Perhaps, this pandemic brought us the new face of norms in accordance with the trend of fast technology. In terms of education, we can see which one can cope with the new system and which one can be left behind. But the reality is that this virtual world can encourage more students to be in the platform of online learning as a consideration in their other agendas. This opportunity actually opens the mind of a dropout or out-of-school youth to enter education again with a chance of being literate at least. However, this also reveals the system of one nation to be prepared and sustained quality education and practice amidst the obstruction of COVID-19. In one effective and brilliant learner, he or she can cope with the system as soon as possible and may find the online learning practical and still feasible especially when he or she can have replays of lectures, gain more accessible notes and sources on the internet, and do the simultaneous job if preferred. On the other hand, we can’t deny the fact of integrity and credibility we can build behind our mightiest exams scores, amazing performances, and reports. It can’t actually reflect our submitted works over the grades
After all, this online class can be effective or not as it depends on the competency of one student. In line with this is the involvement of good internet connection, conducive environment, stable mental health, and financial capability to ensure that studying online continues. we respectively achieved since we are just behind the screen of our devices. One may get the highest score, but with the least learning. One may get the perfect grade, but with the least practice. One may get a superb mark, but with the least knowledge. To tell, perhaps, this may be the reality, that temptations can lead to getting an A but an F with the learning effectivity. Now that a higher chance of a face-to-face class is near, it may be hard for an individual to establish the same investment they did before the pandemic. This may scare them of being into the physical classrooms because of the unpredicted COVID-19 that may surround and at the same time prove their excellence is legitimate online or offline. After all, this online class can be effective or not as it depends on the competency of one student. In line with this is the involvement of good internet connection, conducive environment, stable mental health, and financial capability to ensure that studying online continues. In addition, one should learn how to synchronize with the wave of the trend as this may be the future platform of this generation. Like those trials, phase one may be difficult but eventually, we can adjust as we will be used to it.
Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
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VIEWPOINT Neil Peras
Normalize Sex is such a taboo word that people would put an effort to find a “appropriate” expression to replace it. Some of the of the famous examples are making love, the birds and the bees, and the science version “sexual intercourse”. These words and expressions make it seem that the act would somehow make you less of a person. When walking on the street, no one will look at you when you talk about fingers and elbows. So, there should be no reason to give a pointed look when people talk about masturbation, erection, vaginas, and penises. These are all parts of our body – natural, including the actions that we do. Sex is a special act between a couple. It can be with the same sex assigned at birth. It is a way to connect on a deeper level. It is an act that is fun but at the same time should be taken seriously. There are factors that go into healthy, safe, and enjoyable sex and we need to talk about them. However, to make it seem that we are on the moral high ground we resort to increasingly vague words. These words make the topic more scary, dangerous, and stigmatising. College of Engineering Student Council (CEnSC) organized AAA: An HIV Awareness Forum with the heme “Aware, Abolish, Achieve”, the forum’s mission is to implement awareness towards the
Sex is a special act between a couple. It can be with the same sex assigned at birth. It is a way to connect on a deeper level. community,abolish the growing stigma and discrimination towards the victims, and to achieve a healthy and harm-free academic environment for everyone. More than just giving light to the difference between HIV and AIDS, the forum aims to help students in learning and appreciating the significance of proper sex education to their health and well-beings. Dr. Lou Anthony Lobrefranca said that HIV testing in the Philippines is highly accessible. Local social hygiene clinics will accommodate anyone and promise the confidentiality of information - those who are being/ will be tested will only know if they are HIV reactive or not. Moreover, Elloso mentioned that HIV testing in Quezon Medical Center (QMC) is free. QMC accepts walk-ins or scheduled appointments. If you don’t have time, FDA approved self care kits are readily available just visit and message loveyourself.ph. Sex can strongly impact a person’s mental and physical health, which is why understanding it is important. Removing some of the ambiguity surrounding sex, people will be able to approach it will timidity. No matter your take on the topic, you should help start a healthy by Carl Mikel Dator conversation, full of accurate words instead of “tasteful” expressions.
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SPARK
Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
features
MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL; MIRROR, ONthemTHE Who’sMIRROR DEE fairest of all?WALL; by Raiza Antenor
We must not just look for change. Truth is, it can start and be found in you, only if you look into the mirror. With courage and a brave soul, we must seek for truth and dare to take a leap.
After all, voting is our privilege, our power. Time seems to be literally running. Political candidates have already filed their intent to run for the upcoming 2022 elections, and create new lines of plans and promises—hope they remain true until then. As Filipinos, we have the opportunity to put any of them in the line. However, we are not just to blend whatever they serve on the table and patch the mixture to color our bare skin. We must, cliché as it can be, vote wisely. That decision solely lies on the kind of perception and belief we have in our system. After all, we often choose what we believe. Now, if you would look at yourself in the mirror, what kind of voter are you seeing through? DIE-HARD FAN A belief turned into allegiance. Allegiance turned into a seemingly eternal commitment regardless of the issue at hand. Who wouldn’t be familiar with the Dilawans and DDS (Die-hard Duterte Supporters)? Their wars often leave the online world in clamor, sneering at each other like hungry lions in the wild forest. Walls are built around and when one tries to break a hole on the wall, it is as if guns are fired and battles must begin to defend the personality they support. Whoever is saying the truth sometimes does not matter to them as long as they have fought enough for their political bias. They are willing to go an extra mile for their devotion. DA ‘BRAND-NEW’ SEEKERS “Wala bang bago?” They are constantly looking for new personalities. They believe that ‘new’ brings change. That the country could only have positive improvements when the new names of candidates are brought to the table. Perhaps, they grew tired of the old ways that do not seem to make sense for them. They have this hunger for unconventional leadership. DA COLLECTOR Money is the deciding factor, the force that pulls this category of people to a certain candidate. In exchange for money, that for some, could save their day’s fortune, they sacrifice their votes. It does not matter who the candidate is, what matters is the amount of money ready to fill their palms or pockets, to temporarily resolve their hunger. DRAINED JUAN “Nasaan na ang kaban ng bayan? Nasaan na ang hustisya? Hanggang kailan ba ako aasa? Parang wala na namang kwenta ang boto ko, wala ng nabago…”
These people feel like they only get suffering and pain from the government. They are at the verge of losing interest, too drained to make a stand. They are starting to believe that voting is vain, results could be altered, deceived. At this point, they are indeed vulnerable. Few more bullets and their strings could finally be detached from its binding, leading to the next category. DEDMATOLOGIST Dedma. Walang pake. They just simply stop trusting the government and in the difference that their votes can make. They do not exercise their suffrage, or maybe they are, but just shade the circle where their pens land. Perhaps, they totally got disappointed or felt like nothing was worth it. They have shut their windows to the world. Sadly, this is how the country loses its battle. This is how the Philippines would die and fall. When the Filipinos get tired of fighting, when the Filipinos trample their ‘why’ and forget believing. DECENT ONE The last but not the least. They don’t need to join the rambling online. They are not necessarily all professionals or educated people but they are the people whose clothes are their desire for truth, whose faces are beautified by maturity. They know the power of words, when to say them and not to. They do not resolve issues by mocking and insulting people. They are not spotless, no one is, but they will always seek ways to research and find the right candidate that would definitely be a good leader. Although there is no perfect recipe on how to select the right ones, nor a perfect leader as change is undeniably constant—people change, circumstances change— they still believe and hope. More significantly, they influence others with the right perception, not pushing and threatening them to vote for the candidates they have in mind. Respect is crucial to them. We have been through a lot of challenges. We have been wounded a hundred times. Yet, there would always be a beauty that could go timeless when exposed to truth. Vote with your conscience. by Carl Mikel Dator
features
THE
SPARK
Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
Flavors in disguise:
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A taste of Duterte administration by Nicole Perez
Have you ever tried ordering your favorite coffee, only to feel like you’re in a hot seat of judgment from other customers throwing questioning stares? This all goes down to one simple question - how do you like your coffee? The same scenario happens as citizens get to experience a taste of the current administration, some act like spectators while the others are as though tasteless, savoring different flavors of their Tatay’s so-called love for them. If you were to have a conversation with a coffee lover, perhaps he will tell you that the beauty that he sees in his hobby sprouts from flavor varieties. He’s not wrong, in fact there are approximately 800 flavor components of coffee which is enough to make your tongue tingle. The world of coffee and the current political tactics are somewhat alike. Some tend to be so immersed and confused in its flavors that they overlook how politicians take advantage of their power for the sake of fulfilling their individual interests. Every time you drink coffee, your taste buds collect several flavors for you to decipher. Similarly, politicians abuse and step on the rights of their countrymen through disguised flavors of their acts of service.
ACIDITY For an untrained palate, acidity is often confused with bitterness. This flavor is quite easy to determine due to its pleasing sharpness toward the front of the mouth. Like the numbing sensation felt at the tip of the tongue, anyone who tries to criticize the administration is forced to silence. They are under a constant battle of human rights violation because of the redtagging and the implementation of the Anti-terrorism law. It’s disturbing how Rodrigo Duterte is often referred to as the “father” of our nation through his famous nickname “Tatay Digong”. In contrast to the essence of being a good father which is firstly judged in his ability to provide for his family, if his impulsive actions and foulmouthed remarks are the defining factors to classify him as a role model, by many aspects, he is continuously failing in his duty as a president and a “father”. Just like how he called the University of the Philippines as a nest of the communists, he has thrown accusations at Lumad schools about how they teach everyone to rebel. University of San Carlos was raided last year wherein twenty-six students, leaders, and professors were arrested. The DND-UP Accord signed on June 30, 1989, an agreement that prohibits the military and the police from entering all UP campuses without prior notice to its administration, was terminated by the Department of National Defense. The signing of this accord is meant to put an end to the abduction of persons like Donato Continente, a former staff at the Philippine Collegian. Unlike coffee which can be made less acidic by adding milk, he has proven his unrepairable leadership skills within the years of his term. For instance, as a way to hide his incompetence during the past destructive typhoon Ulysses, the president tried to defend himself in a joking manner and stated that he was not permitted to “swim” together with the victims. Along with the lockdown and threats brought upon by the pandemic, people are forced to face the aftertaste of acidity and identify what they must prioritize, the virus or their hungry stomachs. Meanwhile, Duterte constantly diverted his blame on the problems regarding the COVID-19 response of the government to the lack of discipline of the citizens.
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by Paolo Lavadia
SWEETNESS The perception of sweetness can be experienced in the sweet, smooth sensation when tasting a coffee. On the other hand, Duterte’s sweetness is something that politically conscious and awakened citizens would want to pour directly into the drainage. In comparison with the familiar sensation of sweetness, the real problems that must be addressed are blended with sweet words of compassion. Through praises and congratulatory statements about resilience amidst the pandemic and romanticizing of deaths of healthcare workers, Filipinos are manipulated by the administration to redirect the subject matter and divert the attention of the public. There were already countless reported incidents when he has shown disrespecting and degrading words towards women. In 2019, it can be recalled how the president called women “bitches” during an event celebrating Outstanding Women in Law Enforcement and National Security of the Philippines. Despite being elected to the highest post of our country, he was not very wise with his choice of words. Another scenario was when he was branded a misogynist and machofascist after he ordered soldiers to shoot female communist rebels in the vagina. Who can forget about his completely below the belt joke of wishing to have the opportunity to rape the Australian missionary who was killed and raped by a group of inmates. The list of his hallmarks of hypermasculinity goes on and paved of for women rights’ activists to strengthen their #BabaeAko movement.
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BITTERNESS Unsurprisingly, a lot of individuals consider bitterness to be a rather unpleasant flavor. Alike with coffee, if the government is well managed, the former unpleasant trait could turn into a genuinely surprising result. However, the change that has long been awaited by the citizens has not surfaced yet. There are multiple unforgettable tragedies that should have not occurred if the administration was able to quickly respond. Unlike countries such as Vietnam, there was no prompt action to block the spread of the virus in our country. Although there were lockdown implementations and quarantine protocols, it was already too late to bring back the lives taken by a pandemic which could have been prevented in the first place. One bitter truth is how Duterte’s scrimping
became more visible with the misguided priorities in last year’s budget as there is no substantial funding for aid and economic relief. The president has failed to fulfill his promises to end crime, corruption and illegal drugs within three to six months after he got elected. If we are to reflect about what happened with the administration’s war against drugs, it has only proven the incompetence and corruption that has clogged our judiciary system. Aside from thousands of deaths linked with the campaign, local citizens seemed defenseless and protection of human rights isn’t found in the picture as the higher ups managed to find methods to turn tables or abuse their power through the weaponization of the law.
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SALTINESS The idea of a salty coffee seems a little strange to some people but this salty taste is actually normal. In fact, adding salt to coffee blocks the sharp tastes, enhances the flavor and often brings out the inherent sweetness. As opposed to blocking out the bitterness, what the administration did was to blind the Filipinos with money. Many people are grateful for receiving financial assistance from the government, what they do not know is that this is only a coverup for the inability of the administration to give effective solutions. As a matter of fact, this aid is just a small portion of the corrupted nation’s wealth. Instead of being thankful to the extent of bowing heads and offering politicians tremendous praises, citizens must be knowledgeable that the money given to them is from the funds of the nation which is mainly generated from community taxes. The iron hand of the administration as well as the governance associated with bloodshed and stepping over human rights is proof that without proper leadership, our economy will constantly be put into neglect, voices will always be silenced, and the entire Filipino nation will repeatedly suffer. Resembling how the four main flavors of coffee types typically present in a cup of coffee can be troubleshooted in accordance to a person’s preference, the government can also perform adjustments and the only way for our economy to bounce back and revive both its quality and strength is to elect a credible candidate who has clear intentions and is equipped with significant skills to rebuild a nation wherein economic scarring and recession has left the succeeding administration almost no room for error.
COMPOSING THE UL U
by Reign de Silv
01 SEND ME YOUR LOCATION / Khalid
Let's talk about the good and solid college friends that we have. Your circle's GPS trackers, who are always trying to figure out where you are on the planet. These are the pals who are constantly pinning to locate you in every meeting and will continue to bombard your message unless you confirm your attendance. They are the future generation of Khalid, and their sweet gestures and compassion will make you sing to Send Me Your Location.
02 THE CLIMB / Miley Cyrus
A life in the rural area will most probably make students climb mountains and cross the rivers just to have that single bar of reception. This is the song for those students who are always in an uphill battle struggling to enter their classes due to internet connection problems. On the plus side, The Climb not only depicts the obstacles, but also the tenacity to keep climbing no matter how high the mountains become.
03 BON APPETIT / Katy Perry
Welcome to the youtube channel of your aspirant classmates hoping to host a live mukbang challenge during class hours. The role models a.k.a the influencers who will lure you to journey on your own mukbang channel through their eating sessions because the second you know it you are already clutching your own chips and crackers to munch on. They are the human appetizers and devouring machines, continuously enticing the rest of the class including the professor, to grab their own snacks and sate their appetites.
04 MANOK NA PULA / 'Parody Song'
Alarm clocks could be loud and annoying, but imagine how you would feel if one of your classmates appeared to have swallowed a live chicken. It's like witnessing a live fight in a cockpit arena whenever they unmute their microphones. If you are lucky, you’ll be entertained with the sounds of barking dogs, but if you are not then you’ll have to settle for an ASMR of the construction noise from your classmate’s neighborhood. Your view of them has suddenly changed.They have now evolved into chicken-headed humans who only know how to mumble “cockadoodledoo”.
05
READY FOR IT / Taylor Swift
Don’t even get me started. If Doraemon has everything he needs in his pocket and Dora has everything she needs in her backpack, then why does this classmate of yours always have an immediate answer during surprise recitations? You name it, telepathy, prediction, vision, psychic ability, supernatural powers etc., but they would always have something ready to say whenever the situation calls for it. These are the students who are typically silent during discussion yet are always calm and quick witted to handle unexpected recitations. Indeed, being ready for it is a supernatural power that every student would die for.
06 WE DON'T TALK ANYMORE / Charlie Puth They may have always wished to speak up, be heard, and be able to clarify their point of views. It's possible that they didn't want to abandon you. However, they inadvertently severed their relationships with you due to the disconnection conditions. "It's not you, it's me," your microphone said to the internet connection this time, acknowledging blame for the loss. Welcome to a new era in which muffled microphones make it impossible to be heard. These students are silenced not because they have been stopped, but because they have failed to switch on their microphones for the nth time since the start of online classes.
Have you ever conceived a music video in your mind while staring at your classmates meetings, all I do is entertain myself with the idea of seeing my classmate’s icons as precedence than the lesson that our professor is currently on about. Not that I'm a ba potential to put on a live perf Now, let me tell you about it. Online class appeared to be a hilarious attempt to stage a l meetings has made it seem as though a specific song was composed and cr You've come to the right place if you're looking for the perfect music to describe your pee our classmates, performed by both o
LTIMATE PLAYLIST ULTIMATE
va & Inah Perez
s' icons during virtual meetings? Well for some reason, I do. Every time I attend virtual a soundtrack. Apparently, scanning through their tiled images appears to have taken ad student; I'm just being artistic enough to recognize and appreciate my classmates' formance, a concert actually. live concert, with each student performing a different song. Their attitude towards virtual rafted specifically for them to reflect their perceived ideals of online class. ers. For the time being, let's bang our heads with a preview of the songs that best represent our local and foreign singers. Tune in!
MOVES LIKE JAGGER / Maroon 5
07
Unable to stay in meetings for an entire class period, they buy time by alternating tabs and surfing web sites. They got the moves like jaggers skilled enough to learn various control keys, shifting tabs from time to time if you know what I mean. Let us now expose the students who got them moves like jagger who are naughty enough to attend meetings yet are on the other side of the web, scrolling through their news feed and playing games, with some on the other side of the bed, sleeping.
HOW DO YOU SLEEP? / Sam Smith
08
A cloud of ideas began to stream forth just as they were about to close their eyes. After a full schedule of being in front of their computers, it's now impossible to get the sleep they've all been waiting for. Their to-do list is constantly pestering them, interrupting their ostensibly restful hours. In the end, they had no choice but to return to their computers to complete their tasks. Consequently, while some blame activities for the dark circles under their eyes, others are open enough to admit how Netflix and chill have robbed them of sleep hours. In the blink of an eye, it was already time for their first class - gone were the sleep hours.
CARELESS WHISPER / George Michael
09
These are students who are not meaning to say anything behind open microphones, but have instead found themselves in an awkward situation of knocking the lectures into a halt through an obnoxious remark and an inadvertent tirade. This is the point at which the music dies and the careless whisper has left the guilty mouths that have got no rhythm into a deep sense of regret. Keeping an eye on the microphone icon at all times may serve as a useful reminder for everyone to refrain from making careless whispers.
PAUWI NA AKO / Skusta Clee
10
Despite the busy schedule and overflowing activities you always have this type of classmate who can’t resist going out for some reason, yet is responsible enough to attend meetings for the sake of attendance. These are the students with a ready-made speech to be spoken in case called by their professor in the midst of the discussion. It’s easy to distinguish that they are out of their houses since their mind is in sync with their feet - wandering. Clearly, they are out of focus in the sense that they never lose direction when they are out but are often unable to follow the flow of discussion. You can never miss out an adventurous classmate who is bold enough to say “Sir, sorry pauwi pa lang po ako.”
WORK / Rihanna
11
In this very random playlist, unexpected songs can play anytime. For now, let us talk about the grind that our classmates went through to choreograph their academic tasks along with their personal income generating work. Life is tough, but so are they. Just like this upbeat song, a strong stamina is required to endure the hassle of playing two roles at a time. These are the hardworking students who pursue their studies despite being financially challenged. They are practically driven by their dreams so they work non-stop to accomplish their goals for themselves and their family.
THANK YOU, NEXT/ Ariana Grande
by Carl Mikel Dator
12
Finally, the most awaited time of every discussion has come. Everybody can now say their favorite spiel that was established since the beginning of online class. I mean why not, being virtually dismissed is probably the favorite part of every student regardless of their activities during discussions. This is the exciting part where almost every student is rushing to unmute their microphones and bid their farewells. After all, it all comes down with a grateful phrase, “Thank you po.”
14 AP Photo. File
THE
SPARK
Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
features
Movie Review
the kingmaker the kingmaker the kingmaker by Diana Abdon
Lauren Greenfield
The Kingmaker is a documentary film in 2019 that was authored and directed by an American artist Lauren Greenfield. Philippine’s former first lady Imelda Marcos was featured in this film and perceives the dictatorship of her husband Ferdinand Marcos. This shows how Imelda’s narrative intertwined with the stories of those people who suffered under Marcos’ rule of human rights abuses. In a background with various expensive paintings hanging on the walls, Imelda Marcos faces the camera as she prepares for her interview with grandeur makeup. She travels through the streets of Manila with her limousine searching for the people she can help by giving away twenty pesos to the street children. Imelda goes straight to a pediatric hospital to meet the children with cancer and give a one thousand pesos each. As she tours around the facility, you will notice the disappointment on her face seeing the area being trashed. For her, the things here in the Philippines become worse since the power has been taken from her family. In fact, Imelda Marcos was a candidate for Miss Manila when Ferdinand courted her. It’s just a cringe how Ferdinand proposed to her 20 minutes after they met and married Imelda 11 days after. As Imelda received overwhelming attention from the public, she suffered from a panic attack. However, the challenges did not break her down, instead, they helped to build her. She learned how to adapt to her new lifestyle as the first lady of President Marcos and continue to expand her connections to the public as she had all the advantages of an elite. Greenfield, the director, starts to disclose some rebuttals to the story with Imelda’s old friends looking back on how Ferdinand Marcos let Imelda travel around the world for him to cheat with his affairs. Some residents from Calauit Island also told their story on how they were replaced by the animals that Imelda imported from Kenya to turn the island into her personal zoo. Moreover, several activists were interviewed and shared their testimonies of being tortured under the rule of Martial Law. Many people blamed the Marcos for the assassination of Benigno Aquino, the rival politician who was jailed by Ferdinand Marcos, at the airport when he return to the Philippines after he was sent to the United States by Imelda for health reasons. The muckraking can be observed in Greenfield’s documentary film as you feel a sense of rage at how ironic that Imelda can say “Perception is real, and truth is not”. She keeps emphasizing that the past is the past although she just wants to protect their legacy and continue to create a political dynasty. There’s a part of the film where Benigno Aquino III said “People who forget the mistakes of the past are condemned to repeat them” and “The Kingmaker” film reminds us that history should never be forgotten for us to learn from the mistakes of the past and not to repeat them. It is Imelda Marcos that signifies a kingmaker as how she brought the Marcoses to power through her political influence and grotesquely self-pitying. The film will help you understand that we should not ignore the perils of political dynasties as we know that even one with the best intentions can be corrupted. We can strengthen our democratic values by increasing voter education.
TURN INtegration Period by Ashley Caringal
Sleeping late, waking up early – this routine has been acquired by the students of Southern Luzon State University ever since the emergence of online classes. Deadlines halt the beat of their heart to a flat line, gone was the desire to gain a flat one or to endeavor the future in general. With an almost dead heart and brain to pursue, how can we possibly start to fill our ambitions in life? Rush, race, 11:59 pm turned in. After several attempts to finish the tasks on google classroom, college students can finally start to review for tomorrow’s examination. Amidst the outbursts of cases, the whole institution has one more issue to comply with, determining its possible beneficial and affected aftermath, the imposition of integration period. It will give students the time to prepare for the upcoming examination provided one (1) week prior to distinguish non-class works, tasks and synchronous meetings. “Having an integration period gives us rest and more time with our loved ones. We can spend our whole week with our friends and family. Nakakatulong nang maayos dahil sa walang iniisip na kahit na anong gawain,” Christelle Joy Sepillo, BSCE II student stated. Integration period is perhaps a good break for all those who is suffering from mental instability and personal problems. Moreover, a week break to grasp air, to complete the necessary sleep hours and to let go of suffocation from too much school works and pressure. Padayon – a Hiligaynon term that translates “to continue,” is frequently spoken to someone going through difficult times, struggling and facing tremendous pressures in life. But for every padayon is a student sitting in front of a laptop silently begging for a cease of time, a student at 11:58 pm., trying hard to submit an output, and a student with dreams but facing the fire of intense pressure. Hence, despite the obstacles, college students are highly and genuinely complacent that they have the key to success, “determination”. In SLU, two suicide case due to academic pressure of this school year happened in one month which alarmed the public on Sept 21, 2021. Later on, it was confirmed that two suicide deaths took place, an overwhelming incident for the students, parents and organizations. Everything that was running on the news was turned into a tragic reality – the deaths, fear, pressure, and emotions. We can never measure the exhaustion from the students who choose to step back. The increasing number of deaths demolished some grip of an access to attainable learning, they unfortunately wake up every morning to comply with due activities. Following the said events, an online petition was held and signed by about 6,300 people to conduct free counseling sessions for SLU students concerning mental health for everyone who needs immediate attention. “Our students are really hurting,” Jeff Fowler, VP for Marketing and Communications of SLU said. “We have to be with them in a time of crisis. We have to take actions and listen to them when they write to us or email us or file a petition. They’re telling us: We need support and we need counseling and we need to be in community with each other.” Perhaps this is the question that remains on the minds of SLU students: “how many deaths will it take for education officials to listen?”. It is heavy to hear the silent protest of students who only want the best for their future. The SLU education officials made steps to prevent similar cases, considering that no one wants the situation to reoccur again - no one wants to bleed to death and suffer from exhaustion. While the world is battling with this pandemic, college students are keen to take steps navigating the future. Students and teachers are not an exemption; they not just face risks on health but indeed a barrier. Unfortunately, this pandemic has locked the door of communication and face-to-face interactions in between. Though, students of SLSU have one more task to-do, to turn in the faith and acceptance that with or without integration period, we will take dim lights of success.
Rappler
features
THE
SPARK
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
15
A Year into
Lockdown by Kycie Roxas
As people open their eyes to a year filled with pain, suffering, and realizations, they gradually learn to embrace the present. Worst and unimaginable scenarios have happened. The effects of the virus have evidently affected every aspect of our way of life. Bright colors transform into darker hues. Day by day, it becomes harder to force a smile in a place where you are not aware of who your opponent is. While these worries and fears may seem insurmountable, they are convinced about one thing - despite being trapped in their homes, they have become more connected than ever. Life under lockdown is comparable towards a mixture of feelings. The closed days served as an opportunity for children to reinvent ways of playing and learning, it was a chance for them to explore their surroundings, discover new hobbies, and make the most of what is available. In connection to this, establishing resilience within the youth is one way to help them cope with difficult moments. In these uncertain times, many families rely on the help of others to meet new and unprecedented challenges in their daily lives. For life-threatening illnesses that have affected almost any age bracket, hope was the savior that citizens can cling unto. Upon looking
on the bright side, the pandemic molded us into better versions of ourselves, gave us time to reflect about our inner thoughts and plans in the future, and provided us longer hours of spending time with our loved ones at home. Looking back on every moment, we are left with an important lesson which is to craft better stories and fix our shortcomings as we proceed with another chapter. Health must be a top priority not only when it comes to physical aspects but also about protecting our mental health. This can be accomplished through expressing their feelings and thoughts through having regular discussions or conversations with close friends or families. Trying to maintain the same level of productivity like what we possessed before the crisis began will help others to appreciate and see the good in everything. It will take time to develop new habits. If these transitions take longer than necessary, being mad at the world shouldn’t be an option for there are multiple things that can be able to contribute to our joy even before the crisis. With the current situation that we are plunged into, fear and frustration are fully understandable. All it takes is a flame of hope to emerge as victors in this battle of uncertainties.
Angie de Silva/Rappler
The Lost Glory of Lucena by Malana Cadaweng
To some, demolishing the Lucena Old Public Cemetery marked the end of the building or facility. Various reactions were expressed on social media the morning when it was declared that the cemetery will be demolished. There are some who plead for the abandoned remains those who are pessimistic, those who don’t care, and those who are appreciative. Since the first news was all vague and partial, all emotions were reasonable. However, it does not fall into the category of false news. The demolishing action at Lucena Cemetery as a part of transforming it into “Libingang Bayan ng Bagong Lucena” was believed to have resulted in the modification, beautification, and enhancement of the cemetery’s service. It is evident that the cemetery has to be renovated since it is too antiquated and not convenient or pleasant for those who come to visit their loved ones. Meanwhile, as per their agreement, the mausoleum will be kept the same. Overcrowding of remains upsets the nearby community and abandoned skeletons may be observed in some areas of the public cemetery, which is why demolishing is convenient for the Lucenahins. Additionally, despite the confusion in the first announcement, most are grateful for this endeavor to provide comfort for the remains, even though they have already gone to the other side of life. Dating back from the 1930s, this municipal cemetery showcases nothing but an impressive display of prewar and classical funerary art in the Philippines. Upon stepping foot into the area of unfamiliar pathways, visitors are taken back into a bittersweet chapter where massive tomb structures can be witnessed. Among the said structures include a tower-like figure holding a sword along with two guards which seemingly watches over the remains of the notable Marquez family. Another astounding enclosure is the Salvador family sepulcher where a procession of muscular figures carry a dead body whose head is being carried by a statue of an angel. Unfortunately, citizens have failed to preserve the heritage as it eventually turned into a household backyard where inappropriate items like the clothesline are displayed. After the renovation has finally been completed, this gem would only remain a memory that we must not allow to be buried in the grave.
facebook.com/sementeryo.ph
16
THE
literary
SPARK
Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
Under ctrl - Ericka David -
“I’d like to recommend this chic right here to you, Sir. She’s probably everyone’s favorite. You name it, performance, physique, etc., she’s got it all,” my boss said, trying to seal another deal by putting Alice in front. The man didn’t say anything and instead locked his gaze on me. “I’m taking her with me,” he said, grabbing me by my waist while intently looking at me as if memorizing my every feature. “I should have known better, sir. She’s a limited edition you know, pretty authentic. I’m telling you she’s a 12/10. There’s no way you’ll be disappointed with her,” my boss said with a greedy smile while looking at me. A tall, dark and somehow a little bit handsome man brought me into his home. I guess I’m going to sleep here tonight. “Quite impressive interior,” I said. The man didn’t reply and brought me to a pitch black room. It is so cold here and I can’t see anything. Suddenly, I feel his warm body near me, his breath so close.One minute passed and he’s already touching me. I took a deep breath and closed my eyes and in a split second, he began undressing me. Help me Lord, I don’t know what to do. I’m now naked in front of an unknown man, I mean his cute but God please I’m not ready for this. I opened my eyes and saw this guy sitting in front of me, looking like he’s gonna do something… wild. “Let’s see what you’ve got. Entertain me, baby.” he said, authoritatively. Oh God. There’s no way I’ve prepped up for this! I then heard a couple of gunshots. There was blood everywhere. I know he’s going wild but am I really going to die here? He was rocking his head while laughing demonically as he continued to wreck me. He is clearly enjoying this. Oddly, instead of feeling bad, I felt pleased to have served him my purpose. I’m just glad that he’s the one to take me home. He’s a real master of his hands, afterall. We really clicked with each other. “Dance with the lights baby,” he ordered, wanting to see more of me. I obliged, no longer shy to reveal myself anymore. Apparently, I liked myself better with lights on as I get to flaunt my very asset - my body. I saw fire in his eyes the moment I showed off and suddenly, his touches became rough. I was crying out loud with his ways but it seemed as though he didn’t hear anything. He still continued to smash me. It was past midnight when he decided to stop. We were both panting and feeling hot at the same time, but none of us can wipe away the grins off our faces. It’s only our first night together, but it was yet the best. Well, I guess that’s just the life of a backlit keyboard in the hand of a gamer. It’s always gonna be “play time”.
light, heavy - Malana Cadaweng -
As I started my journey I raised my hands up reaching the goal Tilting my head left to right As I ignore criticism with a spike While my body’s at stretched Mind absconded in distress Negative days and nights I’ll be my own savior and wright A minute of plank bestowed pain Hence my stability surely remains Flutter kicks make me on fire Feeding my soul to satisfy Hold in sumo squat position As a perfect angle was formed Wounds healed from satisfaction With the dripping sweats I’m drowned
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
Turning Tables - Kycie Roxas -
Awakening of the eye from the glare of the sun Followed by the kitchen aroma, Which makes your morning fun. Sat on a chair, Facing the screen, staring at the camera Pretending to listen But when will I ever really learn? Breakfast once shared with the family Now turned into a class homily A single bite of bread Yet I’m already losing an appetite A setup that was far than the usual But has now become the new normal. Wanting to fill an empty stomach I dared to swallow the fact That what was once a dining table Is now a study table.
Jansen De Silva
Captured - Raiza Antenor -
I know of a smile which is vibrant as the sun that embraces the back of the clouds; Of a fist that took the hardest of grip to not fall in the pit of melancholy. I know of a walk that feels endless yet had reached its very end; Of a story that other people have hardly known Of a fate that felt broken, almost torn. No one has ever heard their murmurs nor the cold street their feet have wandered. Failures after failures after failures. Progress after progress after progress. Put us in a frame that silently speaks. What was once a dream, now captured as a precious moment. “O, ngiting tagumpay lahat ah?” “One, two, three…” —padayon, Engineers!
Found a thing where veins excel Proclamation of the heartbeat didn’t know progress takes place Give ‘em to me ‘cause I’m the ace Discriminated by many Ain’t accepted by society Bittersweet experience Watch me as I flex the evidence
Aldrin Pascua
literary
17
THE
SPARK
Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
A Puppet I Once Was
I Supposed
- Charlotte Sante -
- Diana Abdon -
I am a puppet Intricately carved by my maestra Idle piece of wood under the thicket Turned into an obra Slouchy figure hiding beneath the shrubs Brought to life by his whisper I am a puppet Soon to be a stage performer I am a puppet Dangling and dancing on a string Waiting for my song Hoping the crowds would sing along Constantly waiting for my curtain call Aiming for the confetti to fall I am a puppet I am like no any other at all I am a puppet And I get blinded by the limelight I forgot about my maestra I aimed to become my own playwright I cut my string from him Thinking I could stand on my own I am a puppet Diving into the deep unknown.
While we were sitting at the rooftop, I confessed the love that I have, Encircled your wrist with a leash In which I thought would mark you mine. Just as I thought it was a perfect night I suggested we make love But what you’ve done torn me apart As you unleash the tie that connects the two of us. A desperate attempt to give the world to you I am a puppet Intoxicated by praises and fame My head grew in size My heart filled with pride I lost control Then eventually lost them all I am a puppet Bound to reach my greatest downfall. I am a puppet And I see my nakedness backstage Realizing that an obra cannot stand without its maestra Indeed, I am nothing without the string I have been claiming the glory Thinking that it is meant for me A puppet I once was Until my wood turned to ash.
But it’s your loss that you didn’t want to I just bet my bra’s strap for your love Too bad you’ve missed your chance. Stupid.
Aldrin Pascua
The Thing Between Brief and Belief - Johndel Duller & Inah Perez -
A family of engineers - that’s how everyone knows us. For quite some time, ever since the time immemorial, we have built this legacy of the family who had a straight line up of engineers and board notchers. “Does it really run in the blood?” “ What sort of black magic did they go through for it to be possible? “Maybe they exchanged their souls with the devils.” Everybody is in quest of how we have made it possible, but so what if we do? Won’t you take the same risk to have the title “Engr.” before your name? Nah. Kidding aside. All these rhetorical questions will be answered right now as I unveil the secret of the Abcede family. It was raining that day before my board exams. It seemed as though the heavens were accompanying me with my misery. I was at my lowest point and was crying my heart out because of the pressure that the upcoming examination was giving me. I know that everyone in the family is waiting for my downfall. They say I’m about to break the current streak of the engineers in our family because I’m the only girl that took up engineering,and that I shouldn’t have dared to choose this program in the first
Aldrin Pascua
place because it’s not what is written in my fortune. I was ready to take away my life until my mom came inside my room with a rustic box in her hand. “It’s not yet the end of the world, sweetheart. Use this,” she said, giving me the box. “There’s no way in the world I’m using that thing mom! I’d rather not passed!” I said walking out of my room, offended by my mom’s hilarious idea. Then, the doom’s day had finally arrived as I entered the room feeling down. This is not a dream but a whole reality. My eyes were still swollen from yesterday’s cry and my hands are trembling right now. Answering a question with duration is way too swift and requires rationalization. “Five minutes and we’re about to begin. Those who need to use the washroom can go now.” the facilitator said. Although trembling, I still went to the washroom and locked myself up in one of its cubicles. Amidst the loud beating of my heart, I unzipped my bag and took out the rustic box my mom gave me just in case I would change my mind. It’s now or never. Without hesitations, I picked up the red brief and slipped it into my legs until it reached my private. “And right now, I stand before you as your motivational speaker sharing the hidden gem that made me top the boards. Surprisingly, I finished the exam without hesitation. Answered the whole question even if there’s a limitation. Never did it cross my mind that I will be wearing a brief in my entire lifetime. Did I just ace the exams because of the red brief? To be honest, I’m totally perplexed yet consider this belief. Nonetheless, I’m just really grateful that besides continuing the legacy of our family, I was also the first female engineer to make history. But I guess it was all thanks to my father’s underwear that’s been passed on for ages that I finally got the title ‘Engr.’ before my name.”
18
THE
SPARK
Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
features
Shifting Gears :
Jeepney Modernization Protest by Ericka David
Amidst the pandemic, Anton De Luna, 58, a jeepney driver continuously ply his 20 year old traditional jeepney on the road. According to De Luna in an interview about jeepney modernization program“..alam ko naman yang modernization na ‘yan, 15 years old daw na jeep ay dapat na i-face out eh 12 years na ‘tong akin”. Public Utility Vehicle Modernization Program (PUVMP) or also known as Jeepney Modernization Program is a government initiative that aims for a cleaner mode of transportation by facing out outdated jeepneys. The plan to ‘modernize’ public utility vehicles (PUVs) such as jeepneys became bonafide in June 19, 2017, when the Department of Transportation (DOTr) issued the “Omnibus Guidelines on the Planning and Identification of Public Road Transportation Services and Franchise Issuance,” According to 2011 data from the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), public utility vehicles reliant on diesel fuel — of which jeepneys comprise the majority — emit 15,492 tons of particulate matter pollution, or 48 percent of the annual total. Jeepneys emit an air pollutant recently identified to be a carcinogen, a black carbon that is harmful to the public. With the government’s plan on modernization less carbon emission will be produced.
Gio Villano
Traditional meets Modern Modern jeepneys have a bus-like appearance, the engines are made from Korea and Japan and emit less carbon dioxide. It cost from around ₱1.9 million up to ₱2.4 million. It has a higher sitting capacity of 27 than those of the traditional one. Modern jeepneys complies with EURO IV emission standards or better, it also include features such as a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) receiver, automatic fare collection systems, free wifi, CCTVs, speed limiters, and dashboard cameras, as prescribed by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Lost Revenue The Philippines is marked as the one with the longest lockdown in the whole world. PUV drivers are one that are highly affected by it. As the restrictions loosen, some PUV drivers are allowed to ply again on the road but not everyone is given a chance to have a franchise. Jeepneys who are 15 years and
older are not allowed, forcing the jeepney drivers to beg for money on the side of the road. “… mahina pa din at may mga barriers, hindi naman pwedeng siksikan sa loob at baka mahuli ng pulis,” De Luna asserted. Million Peso worth Jeep In line with the primer by Pinagkaisang Samahan ng Tsuper and Opereytor Nationwide (PISTON) and the No to Jeepney Phaseout Coalition, at least 2 million families, 500,000 drivers, and 3,000 operators, may be affected by the phase out of jeepneys, PISTON and the No to Jeepney Phaseout Coalition breaks down the possible cost of modernizing a jeepney. According to them it is nearly impossible for a driver and operator to afford them. Shifting Gear Serving for decades, jeeney plays a big part in the lives of many jeepney commuters, by providing affordable, comfortable and safe transportation. Without a proper way, modernization can grant more empty plates and shattered lives.
Mental Health Matters; Take a Hiatus
Merry Casabal
by Johndel Duller “Breaking the silence.” Education is one of the key factors of the future employment and income prospects of young people. Poor mental health is common among young people and is related to the risk of dropping out of school. Almost 43% of the students in the Philippines consider dropping out of school due to their issues with regards to their mental health and wellbeing. Many of the college students report that mental health difficulties interfere with their studies. Studies say that mental health issues can affect a student’s energy level, concentration, dependability, mental ability, and optimism, hindering performance. Merry Chris Curita Casabal, 19 years old from Tiaong, Quezon. A former student of Southern Luzon State University who took Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. Apparently, Merry Chris dropped out due to her mental health complications. According to her, “Iba pala talaga ang impact kapag naapektuhan na ‘yung mental health mo. Parang nawalan ako noon ng determination para ipagpatuloy ‘to [ her studies.] Sobrang exhausted na….” At first, she mentioned that her mental health when she was in her first year was okay. In fact, she was determined on her studies and told herself that she can do it regardless of how hard college life is. In her second year, her dreams collapsed. All day long, she experienced a mental breakout until she kept questioning herself if she could make it prior to her dreams. Her mental health got worse until she could not focus well on her studies. The only way she did was to comply, but not to learn. Quite usual for everyone especially to her that most of the time she cannot sleep well. Everyday, her mental health always triggered her studies up until she gave up. Furthermore, her family noticed her changes physically and mentally. “Sinabi ko na sa magulang ko nahihirapan na ako at gusto kong mamahinga muna, which is magdrop-out. Pinayagan naman nila ako,, kasi napapansin din nila na nahihirapan ako at napapansin din nila na may pagbabago sa physical health ko.” Merry Chris said. Thankfully, her parents understand how valid mental health is. Merry Chris also stated, “Sobrang thankful ako kasi naiintinndihan nila ako. Noong una, hindi ko talaga mavoice-out sa kanila ‘yung nararamdaman ko.” Dropping out is the hardest decision of a college student. The fruit of labor that you found for almost a year is quite disheartening. Furthermore, the dreams that you built will restart. In her statement, one of her professors had been disappointed upon her decision. Even her blockmates got disappointed with her too. Nevertheless, all of her classmates express empathy and pure love. You can take a break, but the dreams that you built will continue. According to Merry Chris, she will go back to college and finish her degree. She will push to continue fulfilling her dreams alongside with her beloved parents. Merry Chris’s motivation to continue her studies is her family. “Syempre motivation ko po ay pamilya ko. Especially sa mga magulang ko. Kasi kitang-kita ko ang kanilang sakripisyo para sa aming magkapatid.” She said. The fuel of passion is in her soul despite of her hiatus in her studies due to mental health complications. “Breaking the silence.” Taking a break is necessary. Silencing yourself cannot help. You cannot push yourself to study while your mental health keeps triggering you. You are you. You are valid. Your mental health is essential. You can take a long hiatus. Break the silence. Amplify your voice. Take a hiatus. Relax. Restart yourself with motivation and continue to ignite your passion because no one should ever be left behind.
scitech The whole student is the whole story: Holistic Health during online class
SPARK
Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
2020 is the year when everything turned into a cage. In a flash, different institutions were mandated to close their operations since an unseen enemy of humanity was lingering ruthlessly to the point it would end its victim’s life without warning. All educational institutions were closed from the 16th march of 2020. It led to a new different mode of learning, engaging students to learn through printed modules, online classes, blended learning, and any way possible to ensure that students’ education will not be disrupted because of the pandemic. However, even though the Department of Education and the government ensure that the said ways are necessary for modern education, it is undeniable that this Mode of learning brought horrifying results. The holistic health of students is at stake because they find it difficult to deal with these changes. “Ngayong online class di talaga maiiwasan na mayroon kang maramdaman sapagkat lalo na sa mga taong di pa sanay o baguhan palang sa online class,” said Karen Salivia, a college student.
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“At isa na din diyan ang stress syempre dahil sa daming ginagawa at pinapagawa di mo na alam ang uunahin syempre dilang nmn schoolworks ang gawain natin lalot nat nasa bahay tayo syempre mga gawaing bahay kailangan nating gawin para makatulong,” she further emphasized. A statement given by the Department of Education shows that this virtual learning, with its negative sides, is not always in good condition securing students’ safety and well-being. “With online classes, there could be increasing feelings of isolation due to lack of face-to-face interaction,” said the DOH. “Students may experience health concerns related to increased screen time, such as fatigue, headache, lack of motivation, avoidance/ procrastination, among others,” it added. On the other hand, the agency said that online classes “brings increased levels of safety” as students are in a safe way, keeping them away from the exposure of the COVID-19 virus. This issue should not be neglected as it
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by Ricky Tormes
requires immediate action to ensure that the students can continue their education without jeopardizing their health. The agency then said that “taking breaks in between classes and having time away from the computer,” could be an effective way for balanced virtual learning. Furthermore, they also have put it into
...to ensure that the students can continue their education without jeopardizing their health. account that students should “Practice selfcare, self-compassion, and self-awareness of their thoughts and feelings.” The longer the online classes, the longer that it will be a threat to students’ health. Different precautions should be observed, along with students’ resiliency to continue and not lose hope because of such circumstances. As of today, there might be face-to-face classes ongoing, but it is limited. So, for now, securing the health of the students must be prioritized.
The Pegasus leak:
Are we becoming unknowing spies? by Carl Mikel Dator
did you know?
Two years ago, a list of over 50,000 phone numbers believed to belong to individuals identified as “people of interest” by clients of the Israeli cyberweapon firm NSO Group was leaked to the Amnesty International and Forbidden Stories that launched the Project Pegasus. Project Pegasus is an international investigative journalism initiative composed of numerous entities that started to uncover governments’ espionage on journalists, opposition politicians, activists, business entities and other individuals using the Pegasus Spyware. The Pegasus Spyware is a spyware developed by the Israeli Cyber Weapon firm, NSO group, subsequently overseen by the Israeli Ministry of Defense’s Defense Exports Control Agency (DECA). This spyware is the most advanced of
Mobile Verification Toolkit (MVT) is a collection of utilities to simplify and automate the process of gathering forensic traces helpful to identify a potential compromise of Android and iOS devices.
its kind, able to tamper with devices by covertly installing the spyware on the devices free from interaction with the targets, compared to the common methods used which requires the target to click links or answer calls. With this kind of method, they are able to monitor over
by Kycie Roxas
newsable.asianetnews.com
hundreds or even thousands of individuals without the targets realizing that their devices have been tampered. The spyware is capable of reading text messages, tracking calls, collecting passwords, location tracking, remote access of microphone, camera, as well as harvesting information from various apps. Recent revelations showed that the Pegasus Spyware is able to exploit all IOS and Android Versions. The discovery of the spyware prompted an international concern that involved Countries and Individuals pointing fingers at the culprits. Certain countries have also been discovered not only spying on their own citizens but as well as to other countries and their leaders using the Pegasus Spyware,
one example was the French Minister that resulted in him ordering an overhaul into their security measures. As of present time, the NSO Group continues to deny that they are selling information, stating that they are only selling the spyware but are not able to access nor keep records of what these countries do with the spyware. Countries, on the other hand, which were accused of using the Spyware only claimed that it was an Anti-terrorism measure and or otherwise for the sake of National Security. The Pegasus Project still continues the crackdown on the spyware but with it continually upgrading, it only becomes harder to detect.
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Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering | SLSU Main Campus
photography
Aldrin Pascua
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VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
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KAIZEN NIPAPA grabs second spot in PIIE-CSC E-Sportsfiesta by Kycie Roxas
Never say die KAIZEN NIPAPA of Southern Luzon State University showed no mercy, but still missed the chance to seize the title against Blink Esports of University of Batangas in the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang championship match during the 2021 PIIE-CSC E-Sportsfiesta on December 2. KAIZEN NIPAPA suffered a 3-1 loss to Blink Esports after failing to counter the Luo Yi and Yu Zhong synergy, which was the opponent’s hot picks. “In terms of picking, Luo Yi and Yu Zhong nakakapagbigay sa amin ng sakit ng ulo siguro kasi super gamay na nila mag-play around those heroes,” said Jericho “bandersnatch” Palma, KAIZEN NIPAPA’s team captain. Blink Esports showed dominance in Game 1 and Game 2, displaying the stellar plays from their synergy and map control that lead them to seal a 2-0 advantage. Blink Esports ruled the first two games of the championship match but KAIZEN NIPAPA avoided the sweep, stunning them with a switch role strategy between bandersnatch and Harvey “Mikk.” Villamena to close out a 23-10 victory in Game 3. Riding the momentum made in Game 3, KAIZEN NIPAPA attempted to tie the score in Game 4 to hinder the Blink Esports’ matchpoint win.
Jericho Palma
However, Blink Esports still reigned supreme in the matchpoint game, claiming the crown after bouncing back with their Luo Yi and Yu Zhong synergy which gave stress to KAIZEN NIPAPA’s team comp. “Ang naging advantage ng kalaban is synergy. Since squad yung opponent namin, mas kilala nila galaw ng isa’t isa and siguro yung paggragrind sa paglalaro. Kami kasi wala masyadong
PREVIEW Alyana Nicole Urgelles
Inadequate
A Bigger Picture
Every campus was restricted to have face-to-face classes in the country, which greatly affects the system of education, including the co-curricular activities that are usually happening normally in a face-to-face setup. It brought some implementation of changes and adjustments particularly to campus’ sports. Adapting the new normal in campuses during the pandemic opened the opportunity for the students to still study and learn, and allowed teachers to still work while being at home. However, campus activities like sporting events were at stake since most of the activities require physical exertion, whether if it is an individual, dual, or team sport. Popular traditional sports like ball games, net games, or even athletics and other field games can’t be played or performed virtually as what it is. Somehow, it is possible to make it happen by making certain adjustments or definitely changing the rules and regulations of the game. Still, there are sports events that can be performed, but with limitations. Apparently, “Esports” has been a growing industry and creating an influence in the digital platform. This also became an alternative way to maintain the campus sporting events even though the new normal was applied. Thus, esports helped the campuses to retain the competitive spirit of the students despite the pandemic, recognizing the possibilities it may bring as we enter the course of it bit by bit. Because traditional campus sports were struggling to find its way to regain the spotlight, student-athletes were the most affected. The campuses were still trying to conduct sporting events even with modified guidelines just to be fair with the student athletes. However, esports was already going mainstream now and can take place at home, so it is more convenient to organize a sporting event without risking the safety of everyone. Esports leagues can maintain the most of the original schedules by moving to a fully remote broadcast with players streaming from their homes or other remote locations. We cannot deny the fact that the campus’ sporting events are one of the most affected by the pandemic in the education curriculum, and the studentathletes were the ones who suffered the most. On the other hand, it is good to know that it was noticed and acted upon by the administration concerned, changing the usual activities of campus sports to fit in the new normal. Also, the pandemic made the campus sports progressive and innovative as it explored cyberspace and entered the esports industry. The higher-ups should take this opportunity of improvement in campuses in the field of sports, and design a post-COVID educational plan that will not just give priority to the safety of the learning environment, but also the support needed by the student body, especially the student-athletes in continuing their journey in their respective sport. Moreover, they should plan wisely for the future of emerging esports programs in campuses as we move forward to the post-pandemic period. With esports catapulted into the spotlight, it will be interesting to see what comes next.
SPORTS EDITORIAL
When will aspiring Filipino athletes who have the potential to be winners will get the sufficient support that they need to excel in their respective sports? I keep asking this question because as a sports enthusiast and as a former student athlete, I am annoyed with the way our government treats our athletes, especially those national athletes who do not play mainstream sports. Government funding for the country’s athletes has not been enough, a hindrance which Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz had faced before making history. She even got to the point where she had to come out in the open and publicly asked for help for her Olympics dream. She asked for help from the private sector, since the government fund for her wasn’t enough. But Diaz is just one of the many Filipino athletes who experienced and still experiencing this insufficient support or funding coming from our government. Although she received multiple rewards and incentives when she bagged the first Philippines’ Olympics gold medal, we can’t deny that when she was just still preparing for the Olympics, she struggled with lack of financial support from the government. It is just something that reflects our government and society - we only reward Filipino athletes who have already achieved high achievements but we only show our little support to those aspiring athletes who have the potential to be a champion in their respective sports. This mindset should end. Instead of focusing only on giving incentives to our national athletes once they bag a medal from an international tournament, why not we focus on giving them the sufficient support that they need in order to perform better in the international competitions. Giving them sufficient funding wherein they don’t need to worry about how to pay for their training is what they deserve to have. That they will just focus on their training to give the flag and country glory. In reality, there are things that need improvement regarding the development of Philippine sports. The government should help our national athletes to grow further by building better training facilities, giving them enough and proper food, and providing them with a good coaching and training team. Although all of those require time to fully implement, especially now that we are still in a pandemic, our government should try to do their best to make ways and provide solutions.
time to practice since busy na,” Palma added. Meanwhile, BSIEsports of Polytechnic University of the Philippines-Sto. Tomas captured the third spot after beating Inhinyerong Pagod of Batangas State University-Malvar. The Mobile Legends tournament was one of the events set in PIIE-CSC E-Sportsfiesta, which was participated by 12 schools within region IV-A.
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Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering SLSU Main Campus
VOLUME XI ISSUE I | September - December 2021
sports
CEn Fuel tames CABHA Jaguars; targets CODM first gold by Lance Capistrano
In Frame
Pillars of Success by Diana Abdon
A red belter, Lyka Erica Gallardo, inspires people with her strategies as she strives for excellence. She was able to overcome setbacks and hardships to discover and fulfill her purpose, which she used to improve her knowledge and skills for the competition. During the Inter-Collegiate and Campuses Athletic Competition (ICCAC) in Southern Luzon State University, Gallardo represented the College of Engineering (CEn) and acquired 2nd place in Taekwondo Poomsae. Despite the advantages made by her opponents, especially in training, she’s still proud of her achievement as she knows that she did her best for the competition. Lyka had no regrets even with all the struggles she had, the competition will serve as a big step for her to work harder and continue her passion as an athlete. Taekwondo provides hope and opportunity to show her capacities despite her weaknesses as she resisted the pressure of the competition. The athlete did not let other things get in the way of her success as an athlete. Despite the challenges she had in distance learning, she continued to participate in the competition. Along with more than a year without training, she showed her dedication and passion in acquiring the victory. “Pinili ko pa rin pong tumuloy at magbakasakali na mas ma-improve ko pa po kung ano lang ang kakayahan ko po ngayon. Siguro wala pa pong one week yung naging preparation ko po, ilang araw lang po dahil po sa mga school works at online meeting sa bawat subject. Dahil medyo limot ko na po yung forms, naglaan naman po ako ng oras para ma-review at manood na lang po sa Youtube habang nagpapractice.” she remarked. Lyka proved that she was not just a passionate athlete, but also a student who remained motivated and committed with her objectives regardless of the transitions brought on by the new normal. It wasn’t easy for her to take online training since some sports facilities are closing. But she has this unwavering desire to continue learning more about Taekwondo that would serve as her advantage for the competition. Lyka was motivated by setting herself as a standard of excellence and focusing on selfimprovement rather than outcomes.
I CC A C - C A F
CALL OF DUTY
CHAMPIONSHIP
SCORES
CEn FUEL’s Call of Duty Mobile (CODM) Team sets fire after a huge battlefield blowout against College of Administration, Business, Hospitality, and Accountancy (CABHA) Jaguars, 4-0, claiming the first ever CODM Championship during the 2021 ICCAC- CAF on September 23. The CEn FUEL dominated the first hardpoint round as Benedict Yvanne “God Hiraya” Abrigo and Edgie Louis “God Usopp” Flordelisa constantly denied any attempts of the Jaguars to occupy the hardpoint, securing their first win, 150-89. In the second round, CEn FUEL easily adapted the Jaguars’ playstyle, taking it as an advantage that widen the score gap in favor of CEn until the domination round, 150-106 with John Evan “God Freeze” Ursolino and Gilbert Allen “God Sempi” Raymundo that carried the momentum for a 3-0 series lead. With one win away from the championship, the CEn FUEL pulled off a huge upset to the Jaguars in the fourth round, 148-108 and leaned on Alexis “God Supremo” Silva as he eliminated the Jaguars from the hardpoint, ending the series to a 4-0 lead. “Napansin naming lamang namin against CABHA is yung nakakaadapt agad kami sa playstyle nila na napansin naming predictable, kasi halos same route and strategy lang ginagawa nila. Meron din kaming nagiging counter kaagad laban sa kanila noong time na nag-change strategy sila. At doon, wala silang naging pangcounter,” said Raymundo, CEn FUEL’s team captain. CEn shootout with the CIT Warriors in the quarter finals with a 2-0 victory, while advancing to the semifinals against the roaring Gumaca Lions and handling a 3-0 crusade. The CEn FUEL proved their dominance with a winning streak of 22 – 0, ready to represent SLSU in future tournaments.
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KaiCEn thwarts Scorpions, seizes MLBB gold by Bethrina Carreon
CEn FUEL’s KaiCEn ruled the Mobile Legends arena again as they burned SLSU Tayabas Scorpions, 4-2 in the finals best-of-seven match, clinching the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) Championship during the 2021 ICCAC-CAF on September 24. Trailing 17-13 in kills, KaiCEn’s team captain Earl Sydney “Popooyqt.” Peñaojas proved his superiority in Game 1 as he inflicted burst damages to the opponents, tallying 3-3-10 KDA as X.Borg while the team displayed an outstanding resilience in defense that resulted to a 28-minute match mark as their longest recorded game in the tournament. KaiCEn came out firing in Game 2 as they flaunted an early game aggression to take the lead, 8-4 and sank the Scorpion’s hope in a convincing 2-0 victory. SLSU Tayabas Scorpions broke the KaiCEn’s dominance in Game 3 with aggressive plays and early map control advantage, but the CEn Fuel team stepped up their attack in Game 4, with Christian “Stan.” Castro’s Pharsa, dominating the jungle with feathered airstrikes and posting a 3-0-6 KDA for a 3-1 lead. A comeback came knocking for the Scorpions as they successfully reestablished their aggression and early map control lead in Game 5, 3-2 but still not enough to steal the CEn Fuel’s spotlight as KaiCEn returned to life in Game 6. With a raging level 2 Lord, KaiCEn showcased an aggressive offense in Game 6, destroying the base of SLSU Tayabas Scorpions to finish off a 4-2 sweep and secured the championship title. Harvey “Mikk.” Villamena used Kaja to its full potential, sealing an MVP award with 5-2-6 KDA together with Jericho “bandersnatch” Palma playing Esmeralda, who focused more on turret push that led to the team’s triumph. “Kahit ako nalang ‘yong natirang player dati sa MLBB na nagchampion, hindi ako nawalan ng pag-asa na mag-champion ulit ngayon at nagtiwala ako sa mga bago kong kakampi kahit yun nga may konting pressure kasi gusto ko mag back-to-back champion ang CEn sa larangan ng MLBB. Binigay namin yung best namin kada laro ‘di para samin kundi para na rin sa buong CEn at [sa mga] sumusuporta samin. Siguro ‘yon ‘yong naging advantage namin sa lahat ng teams, ‘yong solid na bonding at communication namin during and after the game,” Peñaojas stated. KaiCEn capped off their exceptional tournament run with a 12-2 victory. Along with Popooyqt., Mikk., Stan., and bandersnatch, the team is composed of Laurence Miguel “Itadori Yuji” Estiva, John Carlo “N O B I” Paña, and 6th man Luis Jance “Janzqt.” Que.
by Josep Palad
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Official Student Publication of the College of Engineering | SLSU Main Campus
c esar m arc ai da
dan am i el ni looban
al ex i s s i lva dan i ca vea jard i n
m a . hannah l a i za ca da
ly k a e r i c a gal l ar do
JOH N EVAN urs ol i no
g i lb e rt a llen ray m u n d o
10-peat!
benedict yvanne a b ri g o
e dg i e lo u i s f lo r de l isa
In Frame
CEn’s Nilooban racks up gold in Modern Dance Sports by Melvin Villapando
Tied in racking up the College of Engineering’s gold medal haul, CEn dominated the center stage during the 2021 ICCAC-CAF Modern Standard Dance Sports on September 23. Dan Amiel Nilooban of CEn Fuel copped 3 golds in Waltz, Tango, and Quickstep en route ruling the 3-Dance event overall. “I practiced po whenever may free time ako. At first, it was hard for me kasi it’s been years since I’ve last competed in this sport but as time passed by unti-unti nasasanay na ulit ako,” Nilooban said. This year’s modern dance sports competition was held and presented online, making all participants’ efforts to step up be in extra. “It feels amazing and also thrilling kasi first time ko po lumaban in an online competition. It’s a new experience for me, but the excitement in competing is still there. It was actually challenging executing the dance routine by yourself lalo na po at nasanay na ng may kapartner, that was one of the struggles that I’ve encountered, but with practice and determination, it will help you develop your skills and discipline especially in the sport you love, that you can use in order to reach your goal,” Nilooban added as he expressed the challenge of the new normal in the said competition. Nilooban wowed the judges through showcasing his dancing prowess in all categories, stealing the dance floor against his competitors. Meanwhile, Latin American dancer Danica Vea Jardin obtained bronze in Jive while adding another award for the 3-Dance category.
CEn Fuel takes the lead; reigns 2021 ICCAC champ by Melvin Villapando
College of Engineering (CEn) FUEL proved that the hot streak was endless as they secured the throne as the back-to-back champion in the first virtual Inter-Collegiate and Campuses Athletic Competition (ICCAC) of Southern Luzon State University (SLSU), September 22-24. Continuing the dynasty, CEn FUEL gained a medal tally of 17 golds, 4 silvers, and 3 bronze medals to lead the final ranking together with the other departments in the campus. The College of Teacher Education (CTE) Torchbearers tailed the CEn Fuel in the ranking with 15 golds, followed by the College of Agriculture (CAg) Eagles with 5 gold medals. “The most memorable part was when yung inaannounce na ang overall winnners sa ICCAC and CAF. The tally of medals was so close with CTE and it almost gave me a heart attack. But all is well, we did it --- it’s a decade of holding the title and we should be proud and celebrate it,” said Niel Sadia, Senator of College of Engineering Student Council (CEnSC). CEn Fuel’s KaiCEn seared SLSU Tayabas Scorpions, seizing the Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) Championship and turned the tides of College of Teacher Education (CTE) Torchbearers’ lead in the overall ICCAC medal tally to set its 10-peat glory in the annual event. Meanwhile, CEn Fuel’s Call of Duty Mobile (CODM) team triumphed its first ever CODM Championship title after the 4-0 sweep against College of Administration, Business, Hospitality, and Accountancy (CABHA) Jaguars. Boosting the hype of engineering students in the event, CEn unleashed a dazzling performance to stand out and get the netizen’s favor, clinching the victory in the E-yell competition. The dance sports’ stage was also on fire as Dan Amiel Nilooban garnered 3 golds in Modern Standard Dance, while Danica Vea Jardin prevailed in Jive with a bronze medal. CEn representatives for Arnis (Non-Traditional Anyo), Ma. Hannah Laiza Cada and Cesar Marcaida showed supremacy in their performances, hitting 2 silvers and 1 bronze medal in Men’s Category, together with one gold and one silver in Women’s Category. Taekwondo red belter Lyka Gallardo showcased her skills of speed, power, and rhythm to bag the silver medal in Taekwondo Women’s Poomsae tournament.
Sa nagdaang ICCAC 2021, hindi pa rin matitinag ang ating lakas sa larangan ng sports mapa-face to face o virtual man. Marami-rami man tayong kompetisyon na ‘di nasalihan, napatunayan naman natin na hindi sa dami o bilang ng manlalaro nasusulat ang ating tagumpay, kung hindi sa galing ng ating mga manlalaro at mamamahala. Kaya kahit ano pang mangyari, tuloy lang tayo; tuloy lang para sa Kolehiyo ng Inhinyera! - Sen. Sadia -
The 2021 ICCAC event was part of the virtual activity led by the Supreme Student Council Federation (SSCF), together with the Sports and Cultural & Arts Development Programs of the Office of Student Affairs and Services (OSAS). It was represented by seven (7) colleges and nine (9) satellite campuses of SLSU with the theme: NONSTOP: “Can’t resist, Always Persist”.