Excited sa F2F pero MIA ang vax? Anuena, mga juget?
TRUTH BEYOND KNOWING
T H E O F F I C I A L S T U D E N T M E D I A C O R P S O F T H E U N I V E R S I T Y O F S T. L A S A L L E
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VOL 66 NO. 1
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AUGUST TO OCTOBER 2021
CERES LIBRE SAKAY NEWS
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SPECIAL RISK PAY EDITORIAL
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REHABILITATION ASSISTANCE
DEVELOPMENT
read on page 6 FORGING THE BLUEPRINT. A step closer to herd immunity, CLMMRH holds vaccine rollout for Bacolodnons at the USLS Coliseum. - KARL BRIAN T. MARQUEZA
BCD DUBBED AS REGION 6’S ‘COVID-19 RESPONSE MODEL’ City government programs disclosed BY ANNA MARIA J. VILLANUEVA
After becoming a two-time “Top Philippine Model City” awardee in 2017 and 2019, Bacolod City continues to uphold its title in the region two years later—all thanks to its COVID-19 response. Citing the local government unit’s (LGU) strategies and initiatives of handling the pandemic, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) - Region 6 recognized Bacolod City as a regional model of COVID-19 response, evidenced by the decline of cases during the months of June to August. “[The] DILG commends the efforts of the local government of Bacolod City in ensuring the functionality and efficiency of its Emergency Operations Center,” DILG Secretary Eduardo Año said in a letter dated April 26. The DILG - Region 6 first lauded Bacolod City’s and Negros Occidental’s “best practices” for their pandemic response in June, highlighting the establishment of a bio-Safe Swab Mobile and the use of a geographic system to monitor “Persons
Under Investigation”, “Persons Under Monitoring”, and positive cases. “We shared Bacolod’s programs so that other LGUs in Region 6 may learn from them and adopt the same strategy where they are applicable,” City Administrator Em Ang said. The city follows the national Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases’ Prevention, Detection, Isolation, Treatment, and Re-integration strategy, she revealed. Additionally, the city government adopted a five-pronged approach, which includes requiring arriving travelers to present a negative RT-PCR test result, quarantining at hospitals or designated facilities, transferring positive cases to isolation facilities instead of home quarantining, and sealing the residence of first-degree close contacts. “We learn from the experience of others and replicate what works best in addressing this public health crisis,” Ang stated. As of Oct. 29, the Bacolod City PIO reported that 223,442 Bacolodnons have received their first dose of the vaccine, with 175,014 of them already fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
PROVINCE COASTAL INNOVATION
NegOcc tops 2021 Galing Pook Awards
PHOTO COURTESY OF GALING POOK
BY GABRIEL M. LEZAMA
Negros Occidental was hailed as one of the 10 Outstanding Local Governance Programs in the country during the 2021 Galing Pook Awards, a nation-wide awarding ceremony that acknowledged the innovative efforts of local government units, on Oct. 20. The entry was titled “Network of Alliances for Coastal Wetlands Conservation”, an approach towards managing local coastal resources, led by the Negros Occidental Coastal Wetlands Area Management Alliance (NOCWAMA). GALING POOK AWARDS/page 2
NEWS S2
GALING POOK AWARDS >>> from page 1 “The concern for our environment is a problem of global proportions, but reducing its adverse impact must be done locally,” Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said during the virtual awarding rites. Coincidentally, the awarding day was also the fifth year of the Negros Occidental Coastal Wetlands Conservation Area (NOCWCA) as a Ramsar site or a Wetland of International Importance. “Among the Ramsar sites in the Philippines, this is the only [one] that is locally-managed with a network of alliances and local conservation areas,” Lacson articulated in regards to Negros Occidental’s Ramsar status. Featuring local governments, coastal villages, and aquatic management resources councils, among others, the NOCWAMA is composed of the cities and municipalities of Bago, Himamaylan, Kabankalan, Pulupandan, Valladolid, San Enrique, Pontevedra, Hinigaran, Binalbagan, and Ilog. “This honor will definitely inspire and encourage us together with all the stakeholders to do better and do more in terms of environmental governance,” Lacson stated, claiming the award as an alliance-wide one. The NOCWCA spans 52 coastal barangays over a coastline of 109.52 kilometers, also functioning as a habitat of globally threatened species, extensive mangroves, and mudflats as feeding grounds for migratory birds. The 2021 Galing Pook Awards was presented by the Galing Pook Foundation, SM Prime Holdings, and the Department of the Interior and Government-Local Government Academy.
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USLS conducts vaccination program for Lasallians Preparation for F2F classes underway BY IMMALIE ROSE E. CAFIFGE To prepare Lasallian college students for the limited face-to-face (F2F) classes, the University of St. La Salle initiated a vaccination program in partnership with the Bacolod City Government in Ayala Malls Capitol Central on Nov. 19 and St. Br. Miguel Hall at USLS campus on Nov. 23. After conducting the “Survey on Students Current Vaccination Data and Their Willingness to Attend F2F Classes Starting A.Y. 2022-2023” in October, 4,661 out of 5,603 college students were willing to attend the limited F2F classes, with 3,751 at least partially vaccinated. According to College of Nursing Level Four Chairperson and Focal Person for F2F Anamae Quezon, the schoolinitiated vaccination program will also include Lasallian parents in accordance with the CHED-DOH Joint Memorandum Circular 2021-001, stating that students are only permitted to attend F2F classes if all family members are also vaccinated. “[The Commission on Higher
Education] (CHED) will continuously [monitor] us in the university. If they found out that we did not adhere to the rules, they will revoke the authority,” Quezon said, pertaining to CHED’s “No Vaccine, No Face-to-Face” protocol. She further stated that the university’s main goal is to ensure the safety of Lasallians when F2F classes begin. Meanwhile, parents who refuse to get their child vaccinated or have them attend F2F classes will be respected, reiterating that F2F classes are voluntary. “As a parent, I understand the opinions of the parents because their main goal is to protect their children,” she attested, claiming that despite the protocols that need to be followed, respect should be present no matter what. In line with Quezon’s statement, limited F2F classes for the College of Nursing’s Related Learning Experience (Skills Laboratory and Clinical Experience) and the College of Medicine’s limited laboratory courses and clerkship program will start on Nov. 22.
Bacoleño ranks 4th in fisheries board exam
Topnotcher tells experiences, plans BY ALAN S. VILLANUEVA JR. Among 211 passers from 715 examinees, Bacolodnon Jeremiah Diaz placed fourth in the 2021 Fisheries Technologist Licensure Exam conducted on Oct. 6 and 7. With an 84-percent rating, the 22-yearold was surprised to have achieved such a feat considering only 20 to 30 percent of his readings were in the exam, and he had to juggle both studying and working. Additionally, he encountered difficulties as his transcript arrived past the deadline and he had the flu a week before the exam. However, after reviewing the basics of his field for months, God’s guidance, and his family and partner’s support, Diaz was able to attain this ranking. “I chose to study fisheries for [the
fisherfolk who have been struggling for survival] and I get extra motivation whenever I am reminded of their struggles,” he shared. Contrastingly, Diaz shared that he feels pressured to hasten his efforts in convincing young Negrenses to join his field amid the rarity of Negrense toppers, as he shared that a pool of professionals would greatly help improve the fisheries sector. “Don’t just do it for yourself,” Diaz imparted upon the Negrense youth. “Do it for those who need it.” Currently, Diaz is working as a coastal extension officer in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Community Environment and Natural Resources Office but is aiming to enter law school in order to assist the fisheries sector through policymaking.
For APORs, or people with Bacolodbased jobs that reside in a different city, a separate bus lineup has been appointed depending on the city’s employment and quarantine status. However, the mobilization service is only limited to employees within Bacolod City. VTI Media Relations Officer Jade Seballos clarified that only Ceres vehicles with “Libre Sakay” tarpaulin banners in their rear and front sections will offer free mobilization assistance to medical personnel and APORs, given that they can present a valid proof of identity and are wearing face masks and face shields. The “Libre Sakay Program” is projected not only to improve the home-to-workplace commute of medical workers and APORs, but also increase the number of contracted Ceres bus drivers while employment is scarce. As a partnership program between the Department of Transportation’s (DOTr) sub-agency Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and VTI, the program is budgeted by the Transportation Fund from the recently ratified “Bayanihan Heal as One Act”. The program is the Negros-based launching of DOTr’s “Free Ride for Health Workers and Medical Frontliners” and is expected to run until Dec. 31.
Frontliners to receive free rides from newly launched program
CERES SERVICE FOR SERVICE PROVIDER. The Department of Transportation, in partnership with VTI, offered free rides or “Libre Sakay” to frontliners and APORs around Negros Occidental. - KYLE JOBE B. DE GUZMAN
BY ZALDY MAR L. LAVADA JR. Offering free mobilization services to medical workers and authorized persons outside residence (APOR) in the city, Vallacar Transit Incorporated (VTI) relaunched their “Libre Sakay Program” in September.
SERVICE AND COMMUNION
LASALLIANSPAY IT FORWARD BY ANNA MARIA J. VILLANUEVA Service—the gift that keeps on giving. From once being a handwritten cardboard sign and a bamboo cart filled with groceries on Quezon City’s Maginhawa Street, the famed “community pantry” has made its way to the streets of Brgy. Villamonte’s Purok Bayanihan on July 23 and 30, all thanks to donations from the Lasallian community. Inspired by the pantry’s ripple effect of kindness all over the country, the University of St. La Salle Student Government (USG)— in partnership with the USLS BALAYAN Social Development Office, Lasallian Ambassadors, Akbay PH, USLS College of Arts and Sciences Council, ParentsTeachers Council, and Sangguniang Kabataan—handed out fresh goods and produce to the barangay’s senior citizens and persons with disabilities, all while following environment-friendly measures. ‘Bayanihan’ in the midst of adversity After the previous USLS Kinaiya Community Pantry located at Gate 6,
Ten buses with various point-to-point routes were designated for the free transportation service exclusively for medical workers, with pick-up and dropoff points at barangays Handumanan, Mansilingan, Punta Taytay, Estefania, and Granada from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
the USG, headed by Executive President Carlo Bais, drafted a set-up to directly deliver the pantry initiatives to local communities. “Community pantries have been a testament to the undying Bayanihan spirit of the Filipino people, especially in this uncertain time,” he expressed. Aside from the pantry itself, the USG PHOTO COURTESY OF USLS-SG created a variation of the initiative, called empowerment” to the Lasallian community a “community kitchen,” which aimed to in the midst of the pandemic. provide healthy meals such as vegetable “We move because we are animated,” Dr. soup and bread for the families of Purok Chiu highlighted, recognizing the projects’ Sulom, Brgy. Mandalagan on July 19-23 and role in upholding the Lasallian core values. 26-30. “We need more concrete plans for them, “We are driven to go out in the community, not only a band-aid solution,” Bais explained, reimagine, [and] do extraordinary things because of our faith through our Creator.” emphasizing that every individual’s stories The support from the Lasallian depict how the government should look at community towards the USG’s community the people’s concerns. pantry and kitchen initiatives is a testament to the fact that acts of service will continue ‘Re-imagination of student activities’ Office for Student Affairs Dean Dr. to linger, for as long as “there is no such thing as little in the heart that is big enough Rowela Chiu described the projects to give.” as a “welcome development and
NEWS
SPEARHEADING FREE MOBILIZATION
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OPINION S4
EDITORIAL
Budget Cut to the Chase Let’s cut to the chase: To neglect our medical frontliners is to bestow death upon the public. Recently, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) denied the Department of Health’s (DOH) proposed P73.99 billion in COVID-19 funds—of which P50.41 billion was allotted for special risk allowance (SRA), hazard pay, accommodation and transportation, meals, and life insurance of health workers in 2022. The delayed COVID-19 benefits for thousands of overworked health workers has urged the public to hold protests and to demand Health Sec. Francisco Duque III’s resignation due to his inaction. Pursuant to the Bayanihan One Act, medical workers are to receive an SRA of up to P5,000 per month from December 2020 to June this year. Despite its expiration, frontliners are still waiting on the promised allowance, only to find
out that their budget was even cut for next year. This decision is a clear indication of the department’s ineptitude for which Duque should be held accountable. His gross negligence and incompetence in letting the resources sit idly when the situation calls for urgency is inexcusable. Yet Duque defended the reduction with the probable passage of the “Bayanihan to Arise as One Bill” where, according to him, additional budgetary support for the benefits is lodged. However, Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo was quick to counteract, saying that while they are counting on it, there is no “itemized appropriation” for SRA in the proposed law. Although the government has expressed its support to healthcare workers, they fail to put their words into action with their undelivered promises and compromised aid.
In actuality, this budget can never compensate for the sacrifices of the workers; however, this could be an imprint of the government’s respect for our medical frontliners.
‘‘[...] our medical warriors have already become the greatest casualties of the country.’’ As a publication that values humanity, this is The Spectrum’s rebuke of the incompetence of the Department of Budget and Management, Health Sec. Duque, and the government in general, for them to direct the hard-earned money to our healthcare system and to prioritize our medical worker’s welfare—physically, mentally, and financially. Not only are we losing our pandemic heroes while battling the virus, but that entails losing the war itself. Now look at us—our medical warriors have already become the greatest casualties of the country.
- JAZIEL ANN V. SEBALLOS
OPINION
COLUMN
AN ELECTRICAL DILEMMA
Fraught break times and unwelcome surprises Take away electricity, even briefly, from dropped from certain subjects. someone living in the digital age and it will That said, the academe cannot coexist be a quick trip back to the 1800s. with this phenomenon of brownouts. Seemingly transported back in time, Online classes are already plagued with Negros temporarily relived that era as connectivity issues, so paired with power everyone woke to an island-wide blackout outages, distance learning leaves us last Oct. 5. With no internet to check on scrambling to our beds instead of our updates from electric cooperatives, it desks. might as well have been the apocalypse. Creating new routines appeased our Power supply sense of control and deficiency from somewhat revived a “[...] paired with power excessive demands of normalcy in our outages, distance learning bit on power plants’ day-to-day lives when circuits caused the leaves us scrambling to our the world fell into unscheduled power beds instead of our desks.” more chaos due to the interruption which pandemic. Needless to affected electric cooperatives in both say, its disruption via brownouts breeds Panay and Negros. It started at 5:24 a.m. frustration, spurs demotivation, and and gradually went back one area at a time ultimately cultivates a cycle of exhaustion. as the day went on. Then again, what choice is there? Transpiring on Teachers’ Day, activities Because some voltage drop or weather were moved to the day after and disturbance holds the “power” to slam synchronous classes for all levels in the life’s pause button, our powerless selves University of St. La Salle were suspended. can only fall to the mercy of this nuisance. Averaging more than 50 brownouts per Accordingly, I urge the values month, Lasallian students in Bacolod are of promptness and vigilance from affected as we are only allowed a certain our government in disseminating number of absences before we will be announcements and empathy from
S5 MERYL C. SIGATON
mcsigaton20@gmail.com
Seejungfrau university authorities as we work through our prerequisites and academic responsibilities. Rigorous maintenance or new equipment won’t solve what brings about power interruptions. Natural causes aside, it’s the imbalance of electricity demand to supply and the limits of modern engineering that drive grids closer to their critical point, eventually damaging them. With that, an additional budget to secure reliable energy sources ought to be allotted to The Department of Energy. Since we cannot control the spontaneity of brownouts, the best defense against squandering the passing of zeroelectricity hours is still preparedness and cooperation. Brownouts are tiring no matter how we look at them, but they are not going anywhere anytime soon. Nevertheless, power outages are still not welcome and will never be for as long as civilization continues to depend on electricity to function—pandemic or not.
WAR ON DISINFORMATION
No Truth in a Gospel Lie There are two sides to every coin. A head becomes true. See, if three people can to every tail. A truth to every lie. But when make up a religion, then a lie can easily a coin lands on its edge, a dilemma turn into the gospel truth. ensues: what do we believe in? With the 2022 elections, fake news’ A Facebook video recently spiraled interception with highly polarized politics discourse after it claimed that the becomes horror beyond disinformation. Philippines was the second richest I once came across a quote saying: “If country during Marcos’ rule. Its credited a lie is sexier than the truth, then our own source? TikTok—Gen Z’s tasty cereal. democracy is in jeopardy”. But speaking Now pair that with out against false claims highfalutin words becomes difficult when “Reality and illusion lie in and it is the perfect some laws can curtail our critical evaluation of healthy breakfast, and twist the truth to fake news fortified. crime. the truth while seeking H T M L s . The Anti-Terror Law, honesty and transparency.” W e b s i t e s . or as I like to call it K n o w l e d g e “painting the town red”, googolplex. Yet we are still susceptible can weaponize hoaxes on the internet. to the lies we see online—proving Since its passing into legislation, many the prevalence of the war against journalists and activists who were caught disinformation. Social media, in general, in the pangs of propaganda have not only is a hivemind of propaganda pushed to been threatened with violence but some prominence by a flawed algorithm. A were even killed. single click starts a ripple of falling prey Thus, disinformation does not stem to these hoaxes. from motivated reasoning or ignorance of I find it both funny and horrifying how the truth. It’s intellectual arrogance. a fib can hijack our thinking. And while However, we cannot truly blame everyone can opine, some views can be anyone. Poverty drives duplicity. Even destructive—the bible of lies eventually Facebook, with its free browsing, becomes
KRIZZIA RICCI T. NEPOMUCENO krizricci15@gmail.com
Aster;naught information real estate for those who cannot afford to pay for data. It will not matter if a post is true or not as long as it is there. In this country where good internet is expensive and educating others equates to insurgence, the least that we can do is to dawdle disinformation. Think of target practice with a report button. We need to disprove lies and fight deception. Fact-checking sources exist for us to decipher fiction from fact and eye impartial information. It is not too late to question illegitimate posts quoted with the shameless “CTTO”. Reality and illusion lie in our critical evaluation of the truth while seeking honesty and transparency. Though we cannot know which side the coin lands on, we can easily turn tides to favor truth. Still, it bears the question: Are we willing to vie for what is true?
DEVELOPMENT S6
DBM GRANTS P150M ASSISTANCE TO BCD PUBLIC MARKETS
Market vendors to flourish in local scene BY IVEE E. MANGUILIMOTAN The Department of Budget (DBM) has granted P150 million for the rehabilitation and improvement of three major public markets in Bacolod City. City Mayor Evelio Leonardia stated that Budget Sec. Wendel Avisado personally notified him regarding his approval of the P150 million proposal to renovate the city’s three major public markets: Libertad Public Market, Central Public Market, and Burgos Public Market. “This is by far the biggest single Local Government Support Fund we have ever received,” Leonardia said in a statement last Aug. 3. He said the monetary aid will be a significant investment in the three major markets to combat the COVID-19 unprecedented devastating health and economic consequences. “We already had meetings with the officers of the market vendors associations, and the City Engineer’s Office has also consulted them during the process of preparing the Program of Works for the project,” Leonardia admitted. Furthermore, the mayor stated that the project’s key goals include: meeting cleanliness standards, protecting public health, and restoring economic prosperity. “As part of our economic recovery
SLICE OF LIFE. A vendor from Bacolod City Public Market prepares the goods that he will sell. - RODNEY A. JARDER JR.
program, this will give us a positive trajectory of our economic outlook,” Leonardia expressed. He also lauded Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran and the members of the City Council for their prompt action in recommending this proposal to the DBM, adding that: “Our march to recovery will always be a team effort.” Meanwhile, Assistant City Administrator Allyn Luv Zamora-Dignadice said the DBM’s
MEDICAL SERVICE ACCESSIBILITY
BCD to establish heart, kidney center BY MA. KRISTINE JOY R. BAYADOG House Bill No. 2686, a bill that aims to construct the Bacolod-Negros heart and kidney center, is up for its second reading on the House of Representatives as of Oct. 14. District Rep. Greg Gasataya, who authored the bill, advocated for the establishment of a center for heart and kidney diseases to provide access to quality medical treatment in Bacolod, Negros Occidental, and nearby provinces. “Cardiovascular and renal illnesses continue to be among our country’s leading causes of mortality. Every day, at least 276 Filipinos die of heart disease, and over 28,000 require regular dialysis due to kidney complications,” the solon expressed.
Despite the government’s efforts to provide medical services, there are still concerns regarding financial capacity and geographical accessibility. For Negros Occidental, there are only two government-owned dialysis centers and a tertiary hospital that serve a thousand cardiovascular and kidney patients— which urges patients in need of sensitive medical assistance to travel to Metro Manila, incurring additional expenses like travel fare and miscellaneous fees. Similarly, the city will be establishing the Bacolod City General Hospital under the Republic Act No. 11564 with a P250 million fund to be taken from next year’s proposed national budget for its development. Moreover, Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital, the lone Department of Health (DOH)-retained
approval of the budget request is a welcome development, further stating that: “This project is one of the priority programs of the city.” Now that the project is guaranteed to be funded, Dignadice predicts that more people will visit the city’s public markets. “While this means more sales or income to our vendors or awardees, in the end, it will eventually help boost our local economy,” she concluded.
hospital in Negros Island, was up to increase its bed capacity from 400 to 1,000 beds through Republic Act No. 11441 approved last 2019. Based on the same republic act, an additional 547 staff for CLMMRH are to be hired to address the hospital’s shortage of staff, medical, and administrative personnel. In addition, Gasataya thanked the DOH and the lower house for supporting the bill and the republic acts that were authored to improve the city’s healthcare system. “I am hoping that with the two facilities, more Bacolodnon lives will be spared from the current financial and geographical limits of quality healthcare,” he said. The representative initially filed House Bill No. 2686 as House Bill No. 7454 during his first term in the 17th Congress in 2018, but refiled it in 2019, with a substitute bill currently being outlined for submission in the next reading.
DEVELOPMENT Ma. Kristine Joy R. Bayadog
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Three years after its commencement, the University of St. La Salle’s multiphase Macroplan continues despite the setbacks faced on construction schedules. The Macroplan was intended for the improvement of institutional facilities to develop the delivery of education, as well as zoning of the campus for easier operations affecting the university’s services. “Mostly, the disruption of the supply chain of construction materials and the consistency of labor amidst the frequency of lockdowns were the main setbacks,” Vice Chancellor for Administration (VCA) Dr. Charo Cordova shared through a text interview. Launched in 2018, the multiphase Macroplan’s intent and goal remain the same, aiming to provide a building for the Integrated School
(IS) community as well as the professional schools: Colleges of Law and Medicine. Furthermore, Dr. Cordova disclosed that the completed IS Building to be named as Br. Dominic Fournier, FSC and Br. Felix Masson Halls will house 42 classrooms, four laboratories, and a 600-square meter modern library for students to enjoy. Relative to the original Macroplan timeline, only the renovation of the old Junior High School building to become the Professional Schools building for the Colleges of Law and Medicine has progressed so far. Furthermore, Dr. Cordova informed: “We also finished last year the Agora which is a good area for students to collaborate, perform, and play.” Dr. Cordova also assured that the use of the facilities may be allowed subject to the evaluation of the activities
The Spectrum is the Official Student Media Corps of the University of St. La Salle. Its editorial office is located at the Coliseum grounds La Salle Ave., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental 6100; it can be reached through the telephone number, (034) 432-1187 local 172 and e-mail address, thespectrum.usls@gmail.com. All rights reserved. No part of The Spectrum may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the Media Corps. All contributions become The Spectrum property and the Editor-in-Chief reserves the right to edit all articles for publication.
BY IVEE E. MANGUILIMOTAN
EXTERNAL AFFAIRS DIRECTOR Patrick N. Billojan CREATIVE DIRECTOR Angela A. Coronel
Health crisis delays construction progress
by the academic heads, depending on the alert levels issued by the local government unit and Inter-Agency Task Force. When confronted regarding the alleged clamor from students and parents regarding the continued capital development construction during a health crisis, the VCA asserted that the assets will remain valuable as the K-12, College, and Professional education continue to be delivered, adding that the new ways of delivery of instruction now impact the structures and facilities the institution has built. “For example, we expect more technology enhanced facilities to drive these capital developments. As costs become more prohibitive, we believe that we can only make this happen if we begin with these efforts now,” Dr. Cordova continued, noting that the school cannot afford to be reactive in a pandemic situation where anything can happen. Meanwhile, the VCA also admitted that the institution is re-evaluating the original prepandemic Macroplan to adapt to an expected new normal in the delivery of education.
VOLUME 66 NUMBER 1 · AUGUST TO OCTOBER 2021
Multiphase Macroplan furthers Capital Dev’t
construction of the said hospital in next year’s proposed national budget. Gasataya presented the design perspective of the hospital to House Speaker Lord Allan Velasco during his visit last Sept. 3, to which Velasco immediately pledged to source additional funds to aid with the needed equipment and facilities. Furthermore, Gasataya extended his gratitude to Pres. Rodrigo Duterte and acknowledged the support of Zubiri, Senate Pres. Vicente “Tito” Sotto III, and Senate Committee on Health Chairman Cristopher “Bong” Go for granting the approval of their proposed measure. “Finally, our dream of having our own hospital in Bacolod City will soon be realized,” he concluded.
LAYOUT AND GRAPHICS ARTISTS Gerico T. Guanco Perlyn Joy L. Suganob
“We need more hospitals, especially public hospitals,” Zubiri declared. “I commit to the people of Bacolod that we will have a hospital here.” In consideration with Republic Act 11564, which aimed to establish a general hospital in the city, the Senate allotted a budget of P600 million for the installment of the city’s healthcare institution. The budget will be included in the 2022 General Appropriations Act under the Department of Health (DOH) Health Facilities Enhancement Program. “I put it in 2022 so that whatever happens, we will have the P200 million to start construction,” Zubiri explained. Correspondingly, Gasataya affirmed DOH’s response to his request of allocating a fund of P250 million for the
NEWSPAPER EDITOR Drexel John N. Amit ASSISTANT NEWSPAPER EDITOR Krizzia Ricci T. Nepomuceno MAGAZINE EDITOR Lance Christian M. Juarez ONLINE EDITOR Meryl C. Sigaton LITERARY EDITOR Immalie Rose E. Cafifge PHOTOS & VIDEOS EDITOR Karl Brian T. Marqueza LAYOUT & GRAPHICS EDITOR Mikey Vincent T. Vicente
Five private properties have confirmed to offer their lands as donations to the government for the establishment of the Bacolod City General Hospital. Bacolod City Lone District Rep. Greg Gasataya affirmed that each property is composed of 3-3.5 hectares of land, with four located in barangays Alijis, Bata, Felisa, and Vista Alegre, while the fifth location has yet to be disclosed. “That’s the advantage because the government no longer has to spend for the land since it will be donated,” Gasataya remarked. “We’re hoping by early next year, the construction will already start.” According to Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri, the establishment of the hospital will provide better quality health care services to the people of Bacolod.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kynah Rhea B. Fuentes ASSOCIATE EDITOR Hana Patricia Raj E. Hautea MANAGING EDITOR Ivee E. Manguilimotan
BY PHOEBE DAIDOJI Q. JABONETE
FOUNDED 1956 facebook.com/thespectrumusls thespectrum.usls@gmail.com
Freehold offers to aid hospital development
THESPECTRUM
Bacolod City General Hospital obtains property donations
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2016 May 24 - Offered pardon to Former Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo June 30 - The 16th Philippine President, Rodrigo Roa Duterte, began his term July 12 - PH wins arbitration case vs. China over West Philippine Sea dispute July 23 - Issuance of the Freedom of Information Order July 25 - Initiated his promise to suppress drug trade through the war on drugs or operation “tokhang” August 7 - Qualified Marcos’s burial in the Libingan ng Bayani August 22- Resumption of peace talks with the CPP-NPA-NDF September 3 - Apparent “lawlessness in the country” after bombings in Davao City September 15 - Whistleblower Edgar Matobato revealed Duterte’s order over Davao Death Squad September 30 - Likened himself to Adolf Hitler after promising to kill drug users and peddlers October 4 - Improved military and police salaries and equipment October 19 - Rejected decade-long U.S. relations to strengthen ties with China and Russia October 20 - Initiated the government’s “Build, Build, Build” program November 29 - Passed a bill for the reimposition of the death penalty
2017 January 11 - Approval of a P1,000 increase in SSS pensioners’ benefits May 16 - Imposed a smoking ban in public places May 23 - Start of the five-month-long siege of Marawi and declaration of martial law covering the entirety of Mindanao July 3 - Impeachment bids, plunder, and graft case under the International Criminal Court (ICC) August 2 - Extended the effectiveness of passports to ten years and drivers licenses to five years August 3 - Duterte signed the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act law on free tuition for state colleges August 16 - Kian delos Santos shot dead, stirring controversy as official police reports contradicted witness statements and CCTV footage September 29 - PRRD went after P7.3 billion tax from Philippine Airlines October 17 - Philippine Stock Exchange registered an all-time high rating of 8,586 December 19 - Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion Law were signed December 22 - Closed all online gambling operations
Duterte Adm A Timeline
Sources: Asia News, Al Jazeera Media Network, BBC nila Bulletin, Overseas Filipino Bank, Philippines and G of the Philippines Anti-Red Tape Authority, Republi Republic of the Philippines Department of Budget Department of Health, Republic of the Philippines Ph Presidential Communications Operations Office, Su Times, The New York Times, Tim
2018 January 18 - Launched the Overseas Filipino Bank February 8 - ICC’s instigated a preliminary inquiry on Duterte’s war on drugs campaign March 14 - Duterte declared to remove the Philippines from the ICC May 28 - Signed the Ease of Doing Business and Efficient Government Service Delivery Act to amend the Red Tape Act of 2007 July 26 - The Bangsamoro Organic Law and the Philippine System Identification were signed September 27 - Duterte confessed, “My only sin is the extrajudicial killings.” October 26 - Boracay Island reopened after six months of rehabilitation November 14 - The Congress approved the passing of the Rice Tariffication Law December 15 - Return of the Balangiga bells to the Philippines December 19 - The General Appropriations Act signed into law
ministration: e Review 2020
C, CNN Philippines, IBON Foundation, Inquirer, MaGlobescope Inc, Philippine Star, Rappler, Republic ic of the Philippines Embassy of the Philippines, t and Management, Republic of the Philippines hilippine News Agency, Republic of the Philippines un Star Publishing Inc., The Guardian, The Manila me, U.S. News & World Report
2019 February 19 - Universal Healthcare Act signed into law March 17 - Approval of the country’s withdrawal from ICC April 30 - PH received the highest credit rating from an established business intelligence corporation with a BBB+ investment rating May 13 - Duterte gained resounding support during the 2019 elections, ensuring control over the Congress chambers May 22 - Successfully urged Canada to take back trash disposed in the country June 29 - 2,730 human rights defenders charged and arrested throughout the 3-year rule of Pres. Duterte, with 1,831 detained and 539 released after July 27 - Shutting down of 3,000 Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office lotteries November 7 - Increased Gross Domestic Product to 6.2% November 15 - DPWH reported the 2016 “Build, Build, Build” program completion in 2019 of 9,845 km of road, 4,536 flood control projects, and 71,803 classrooms.
January 20 - Duterte threatened to close a 1998 pact that allowed U.S. troops to operate in the Philippines January 30 - SARS-Cov-2 viral RNA was detected by PCR on initial swabs, confirmed as the first COVID-19 case in the Philippines March 16 - Quarantine measures were ordered all throughout the country March 24 - The Bayanihan to Heal as One Act of 2020 was signed to strengthen the COVID response March 27 - Philippines was placed under a state of calamity April 1 - Duterte ordered to shoot quarantine violators May 5 - ABS-CBN shutdown due to the network’s failure to renew franchise July 3 - Signing of the Anti-Terror Bill into law July 30 - Duterte conditioned that the U.S. must pay to hold the deal to restore the Philippines’ key military agreement with the U.S. August 19 - Human Rights Leader Zara Alvares killed during Duterte’s War on Dissent September 11 - Duterte signed the Bayanihan to Recover as One Act, providing a COVID-19 relief package worth P165.5 billion October 28 - Launched the One Hospital Command system to improve COVID-19 health care facilities
2021 January 19 - Termination of the 1989 accord with the University of the Philippines, allowing police and military on campus February 28 - First batch of the Sinovac Biotech vaccine CoronaVac received March 5 - Duterte handed out NTFELCAC aid to “communist-free” barangays March 13 - Palawan division plebiscite March 16 - The Philippines breaks the record to implement one of the world’s longest lockdowns March 20 - National Task Force proclaimed a fleet of Chinese ships uninvited to spread in the waters of the West Philippine Sea April 26 - COVID-19 positive cases reached the 1M mark July 26 - Duterte ordered communists to be shot dead in his fifth SONA September 30 - PH debt rose to P11.64 trillion as the government ensured funds to combat the COVID-19 pandemic September 30 - PH’s total debt rose by 18.9% from the end-2020 October 13 - PH COVID-19 death toll reached 40,000th mark, while 2.56M recovered
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NO DOG FOR ITSELF BY HANA PATRICIA RAJ E. HAUTEA Back in January 2020, one of The Spectrum’s “Humans of La Salle Avenue” posts about a homeless man and his pet dog went viral. Among the heartwarming responses from generous people who wanted to help him go back home to Manila, the publication was only able to fulfill his dream due to an organization that went above and beyond—Pawssion Project. Founded by dog whisperer Malou Perez, Pawssion Project is a non-profit organization committed to the “rescue, rehabilitation, and rehoming of dogs in distress”. Their tale began on October 2018 when Malou said “no” after discovering 50 dogs were scheduled for euthanasia via gunshot, and so she established this haven for the strays. As an organization that built its foundation pre-COVID, the lockdown brought about an unfortunate dip in their rescue operations. But the ever-expanding group of dog lovers did what they knew best.
“2021 was actually a good year for Pawssion Project,” Website Committee Head Ish Rodriguez-Pilarca commented. “We organized a lot of online and in-person events—Adoption Drives, Spay and Neuter Drives and Low-Cost Vaccination Services— and gained so many new allies along the way!” Alongside those, one of their greatest achievements to date has to be helping convert the Bacolod City Pound into a nokill pound. Malou wanted to make sure that no dog would ever have to risk being put down any longer. With this in mind, Pawssion’s platform was used, and the Bacolod City Animal Welfare Task Force was established. This is the official partnership between the city’s government unit and local animal welfare groups, which ensures that every dog on the streets is as safe as paws-ible. Yet despite their unceasing efforts, it never seems to be enough. “The sad reality is this: people rally so fast whenever there is an animal that needs to be rescued or there are new batches of
The Spectrum to host 15th LSPCon In this time where fallacies and social changes briskly engulf our society, will you heed the call to fight at the forefront? The Spectrum, the Official Media Corps of the University of St. La Salle, will convene together with other Lasallian student-journalists at the vanguard of the 15th Lasallian Press Conference (LSPCon), its very first virtual conference, with the theme “Exigency: Press at the Forefront” on Nov. 27-30 via Zoom. LSPCon is an annual training and fellowship that gathers student-journalists from the member schools of De La Salle Philippines to develop excellence in
PHOTO COURTESY OF PAWSSION PROJECT
dogs and cats on death row,” Ish expressed. “But once they are rescued, support will slowly wither away.” Another plight they share is how rescuing seems to be but a band-aid solution to a longstanding, easily-ignored problem: stray overpopulation. Still, they continue on in the service of the strays. Starting as a one-man passion project, the organization has grown to have shelters in Bacolod and Bulacan with 500 rescues currently sheltered, 600 successfully rehomed, and almost 1,100 rescued animals since 2018. Truly, it is such a privilege to have met Malou Perez and to work together with this astounding organization in person. They are willing to do what it takes to make the world a better place for abused and abandoned animals, and it shows. “We may never in our lifetimes witness animals being accorded the place they deserve in society [...] but we can live out our lives trying,” Jasmine, another volunteer, concluded. “One animal at a time. Because each life matters.”
PRESS RELEASE
campus journalism that is knowledgeable and responsive to present social changes in the age’s media transition while upholding camaraderie with the circle of Lasallian campus journalists around the archipelago. “Exigency refers to a sense of immediacy, which is not only necessary but also critical in today’s political and social climate,” The Spectrum External Affairs Director Patrick Billojan expressed. Meanwhile, The Spectrum Editor-inChief Kynah Rhea Fuentes emphasized that with the alarming stifling of people who bravely voice out the incompetence
of the nation as well as the explicitlydisplayed grave human rights violations, no room should be allocated for fear [because] the stronger the fear, the more determined people are against it. The four-day event will anchor collegiate and senior high school students as they attend talks by various professional media practitioners and personalities such as Samira Gutoc, Chaz Raquina, and Danilo Arao, among others. Meanwhile, the first LSPCon Campus Press Awards will also recognize outstanding Lasallian publications among the participants themselves.
Hayop Ka! Review BY ADRIANNE H. SAPLAGIO
Every decision was a matter of “when will it happen” rather than “will it actually happen”. Most of the characters’ dialogue was based on the assumption that everything that’s sexual is probably funny as well, leading to an overkill of dirty conversations. Though some say that these are just to poke fun at the classic tropes, it does so at the expense of the film itself.
FRAMED HOPE & SMILES IN STROKES BY LANCE CHRISTIAN M. JUAREZ If anything encapsulates the human spirit, it would be art. The perseverance of creativity and expression reverberates beyond triumphs and tragedies—and in this case, amid the pandemic. Artist Gilbert Nemenzo fell to the clutches of COVID-19 and had to be hospitalized in a local quarantine center. As a COVID patient, it’s easy to linger on the what ifs and the negatives, but it was different for Gilbert as he chose to focus on what he always knew: art. In pursuit of this, Gilbert understood that focusing on the positives is best for him and his fellow patients. Thus, the Bacolodnon’s Obra Maesta: para sa mga biktima sang pandemya art exhibit blossomed into existence. Soliciting the help of fellow artist Charlie Co and the support of Karl Laurenz Diamante, Nemenzo orchestrated a gallery to showcase the beauty of art in response
to the dreary mental strain of the virus. His neighboring patients pitched in ideas and crafted art of their own, embracing the initiative. Other artists such as Cristian Gascon and Kevin Grapa also contributed their works for the exhibit. In a SunStar article, Nemenzo shared: “This is a form of art therapy for those in distress [...] so what I did was have some art images hanging on the walls of the quarantine facility.” A few pieces depicted hope through masks and smiling eyes, among other works that showcased a mix of religious imagery, face shields, and medical frontliners in PPEs—a prime representation of the times. Although it was partly because of his infection that led him to work on the exhibit, it was also because of his genuine enthusiasm and love for art that buttressed the project. Being an advocate for mental health, especially during the pandemic, gave Nemenzo a platform to share awareness and support. Even after he recovered and exited the confines of the facility, the art and
The animation was an outstanding showcase of what Filipino animators are capable of. Every scene was vibrant and eye-catching, not to mention the attention to detail by the illustrators was nothing short of commendable. Film director Avid Liongoren mentioned that only five people were working on the film at the same time, taking almost four whole years to finish the entire thing. The strength of Hayop Ka! definitely lies in its visuals, as even the voice acting left more to be desired. Its voice cast was starstudded with well-known Filipino personalities—Angelica Panganiban voicing Nimfa, Sam Milby voicing Inigo Villanueva, and Robin Padilla voicing Roger Europeo. Casting them was questionable as they couldn’t showcase their greatest strengths, but at least their mere presence brought in more viewers. The voiceovers could have been better had they hired professional voice actors for the job. Hayop Ka! was a hard watch. Filled with corny puns and sexual references, it was sometimes difficult not to press fast forward. For a cartoon movie aimed towards an adult audience, it relied heavily (if not solely) on sexual humor and was ironically a bit too childish. It certainly makes for a lighthearted watch and the visuals are definitely a must-see, but all in all, there doesn’t seem to be much purpose to the film other than just downright mediocre amusement.
images served as a beacon of optimism for onlookers and fellow creatives. For inspiration, Gilbert Nemenzo confessed that he was a scholar of the esteemed Ramon Hofileña, who championed heritage preservation and cultural tourism in Silay City. “I became an Assistant Tour Guide in the Hofileña museum. The vast collection of arts in the museum and the influence of Mr. Hofileña has shaped me and moved me to embrace skills,” Nemenzo explained. The art exhibit ran from Sept. 11-30 in the third floor of Ayala Malls Capitol Central. Though the pieces may be off the walls, their gentle sentiments and hopeful imagery will not be forgotten anytime soon. “I apply this love for art to help other people [...] I survived not because I’m good but because God sent people to help me,” Gilbert expressed. “This advocacy is not about me but about extending the ripples of blessings God has given me.” Even in the worst of times, perseverance can be found anywhere. Gilbert Nemenzo’s inspiration and passion may not be the answer to another’s turmoil, but serves as a testimony to the strength of the human spirit.
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Anthropomorphic cartoons geared toward an older audience aren’t new—look at Bojack Horseman, The Regular Show, and Tuca & Bertie. These shows, with their humor and wit, have caught our attention by making us think about things we didn’t even know we had to ponder about. It seemed reasonable to expect great things from Hayop Ka! The Nimfa Dimaano Story, an adult anthropomorphic animated Netflix movie released on Oct. 29 last year. Revolving around the life of Nimfa Dimaano, a feline who works as a perfume saleslady at a mall, the Filipino film follows a regurgitated telenovela plot littered with copious amounts of sex and betrayal. Nimfa cheats on her boyfriend, Roger Europeo—a muscular askal who works as a janitor—as she was seduced by a playboy megalomaniac Siberian Husky named Iñigo Villanueva. Everything just went downhill from there. The plot was predictable with all the regular Pinoy cliches. It wouldn’t be telenovela-inspired if it doesn’t have social disparity and multiple love triangles. Never during the movie was I ever on the edge of my seat; the excitement that comes from anticipating what happens next was non-existent. When Inigo came into Nimfa’s life, not for a second did I think that she wasn’t going to sleep with him and neither did I doubt that they would definitely get caught.
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THE VROID HAS LANDED: GDSC UNVEILS OFFICIAL MASCOT BY FERRY LYRA B. FRONDA Is this the video droid we’re looking for? Yumi says yes! Google Developer Students Club’s (GDSC) official mascot Yumi is now ready to a n i m a t e students’ c o l l e g e experience with her interactive features after Lasallians welcomed this innovation last Oct. 23 via Zoom and Facebook live. Interactive mascots are a well-regulated system that purveys emotional triggers and feedback while enabling the user interface to speak the user’s language. Thus, Yumi can do podcasts, video game commentary, and tutorials, among other things. Her appearance resembles Google Chrome’s theme with inscribed GDSC and Google logos, and her bright blue eyes strikingly unveil that she is made up of codes. Mascots are encouraged amongst
GDSC Chapters as it helps their audience distinguish who they are as a club. Yumi was built by model creator Marielle Angelica Garbanzos, project lead Vien de la Serna, and layout artist Gian Aibo Boyero using free basic anime 3D model creator software or VRoid. “In a meeting with the core team, we joked around about having an anime girl as our mascot. It dawned on us that it has never been done by any other school, and with the technology available, we thought, why not?” Vien shared. She recalled how Yumi was born from a joke and a “why not?” question—a phrase she said would always remind them of the team’s unfettered potential. The name Yumi was derived from the kanji characters that mean “reason, beauty” or “abundant beauty.” This portrays Yumi as the catalyst for the club’s breakthrough to influence people toward greater heights of technology and to develop something beneficial to society. “Yumi also sounds like a combination of ‘You’ and ‘Me’,” Vien added. “A message that with the help of you and me, we will have a greater world to live in.”
A Well-fed Planet: A Lasallian Vision Shared to the World BY ALAN S. VILLANUEVA JR. “No agri[culture], no food, no life.” As the president of the University of St. La Salle Green Ranchers Club, Tracey Tedoco stands with a strong heart and stomach in sharing the principle of codependence among agriculture, food, and life to the youth. Therefore, it is no shock to everyone who has heard of her nobility that she is set to participate as the only Filipina and Bacolodnon delegate out of 100 young people from 44 countries around the globe in the 2021 Youth Ag Summit this November 16 and 17. This biennially-organized conference of Bayer, a global life science company centered on healthcare and agriculture, called out to young leaders aged 18 to 25 who advocate for sustainable global agriculture. During the application period from May 17 until the end of June, the applicants individually submitted three-minute videos delineating their
project ideas on “How to feed a hungry planet”, where six Filipinos, including Tedoco, proved their competence and dedication. Tedoco’s bountiful proposal, which caught Bayer’s eye, involves two branches of agriculture: animal science and crop science, both incorporated in the objective of healthier living. One of her suggestions was rabbit raising, which she believes is ideal despite having no practice in the field, since rabbit meat is healthier than chicken and pork. She also pointed out that rabbit waste can be used as fertilizers. Additionally, she recommended vertical vegetable gardening, which is an initiative she already applies at home and is suitable for urban settings with limited spaces. In her eyes, the project she has cooked up can easily be done with the helping hands of her club members and mentors who possess the same enthusiasm for agriculture. She wants the youth to be alarmed as an increasing population amid decreasing supplies is the harsh reality of the world, and inaction would only result in our hunger. From small steps like planting at home,
Yumi’s character and concept were quickly developed, but the draft model version took them a week to perfect. Marielle, the model’s creator, mentioned that she had to wait for responses or feedback before making the desired changes. The transition to video droids and the new wave of innovation among students signifies that we are gradually adapting technology and artificial intelligence. This broadens the horizon of personification, emotional attractiveness, and improves our focus and subconscious perceptions of the world. With the pandemic still raging and our growing reliance on technology, this group specializing in Google developer technologies took the leap in reimagining what is possible. Indeed, imminent and constant developments all around us can make us feel as if the future has already arrived— unknown and uncertain. But evolution is revolution. Nothing can be achieved when we cower away from challenges and sit on the sidelines. Hence, we must embrace change with with an optimistic perspective, because like the Google Developer Students Club, we never know where the smallest idea might lead us.
she believes that we can all help in hushing the loud cries of our stomachs. Finally, Tedoco imparts to us one last food for thought she has deemed as a personal mission, as we are all inhabiting this eternally starving planet: “I […] want to advocate and highlight the importance of agriculture and our farmers and how they can be the key to a brighter future.”
- PERLYN JOY L. SUGANOB
FILIPINO
COLUMN
PAGSULONG SA KARAPATANG PANDAGAT
Pagtindig ng Isa Para sa Laban ng Lahat Isang boses. Madalas, dyan nagsisimula Gayundin, ang pagsusulong ng ang demokrasya. resolusyon ay siyang pagtataguyod Buwan ng Mayo nang magpatupad ang sa mga alituntuning ipinatutupad ng Tsina ng isang unilateral fishing moratorium United Nations Convention on the Law na umabot sa mga anyong tubig na hindi of the Sea o UNCLOS na nagsisilbing saklaw ng kanilang lehitimong pag-aari. pandaigdigang kasunduan sa paggamit Kasunod nito, naglabas ang Sangguniang ng mga anyong dagat at pangangalaga Panlalawigan ng Palawan ng isang ng mga yamang tubig. Sa kabilang ng resolusyon bilang protesta sa nasabing makapal na balat ng Tsina upang mangfishing ban ng banyagang nasyon, isang tila agaw ng mga katubigang nasa exclusive maliit na hakbang na economic zone ng mayroong malawak bansa ay ipinahihiwatig “[A]ng laban para sa ating mga na implikasyon. karagatan ay hindi lamang laban ng resolusyon ang hindi Ang isinagawang basta-bastang pagsuko ng Palawan ngunit ng buong hakbang ng bansa bilang isang nagkakaisang ng mga Pilipino. probinsyal na Kung tutuusin, ang nasyon.” pamahalaan ay isang Tsina pa nga dapat ang pagpupunyagi tungo sa pakikibaka ng may panagutan dahil sa paulit-ulit nitong mga mangingisdang maapektuhan ng pagsalungat sa Hague arbitral ruling, nasabing pagbabawal. Maaalala na ilang na naglalahad na walang katuturan ang beses nang ginipit ng mga naglalakihang pangmalawakang pagkabig nito sa mga sasakyang pandagat ng Tsina ang mga islang bahagi ng West Philippine Sea. mumunting bangkang panghanapbuhay Higit pa sa mga nabanggit, ang ng mga Pilipinong mangingisda. Kabilang resolusyon ay hindi lamang umaalalay na rito ang hindi umano ay “aksidenteng” sa pagtanggi ng Kagawaran ng paglubong ng FB Gimver 1 noong 2019. Ugnayang Panlabas sa moratorium ngunit Sa paraang ito, naipaglalaban ang nagpapakita rin ito ng kahalagahan mga pang-aangkin ng mga Tsino sa mga ng bawat sangay ng gobyerno sa yaman at anyong dagat ng Pilipinas. pakikibaka tungo sa pagpapanatili ng
Iba’t Ibang Gamit ng Tarpo, Iba’t Ibang Galawang Trapo NI DREXEL JOHN N. AMIT Kasabay ng pagpasok ng “Ber” months ay ang paglipana ng mga makukulay na mga parol at Christmas lights sa paligid. Ngunit sa taong 2021, tila hindi lang ata mga dekorasyong pampasko ang maagang nagsipagsulputan. Ano pa ‘ka mo? Edi ang mga paanunsyo ng mga trapong tatakbo sa darating na pambansang halalan sa 2022! Trapo, na isang paglalaro sa salitang “tarpo”, ay ang pinaikling bersyon ng terminolohiyang “tradisyunal na politiko” o iyong mga tumatakbo at naihahalal na pare-pareho lang ang galawan kada eleksyon—uusbong kapag magpapaboto at mawawalang parang bula kapag naisadlak na sa posisyon. Tulad ng iba’t ibang mga disenyo at layout ng mga tarpo ay mayroon ding sarisaring galawan ang mga trapo. Narito ang ilan sa kanila:
Tarpo bilang Palamuti Tulad ng mga tarpo na ginagawang palamuti sa mga pader ng siyudad, gawain din ng mga trapo na gumawa ng isang personang magpapaganda ng kanilang anyo at magpapabango ng kanilang pangalan. Isa sa mga paborito nilang libangan ay ang paggawa ng mga islogan na kahit wala namang malalim na kahulugan ay mas importanteng nagtutugma ang bawat linya. Liban pa rito, lugod na lugod din silang gumawa ng mga jingle na kahit gaano pa kahindik-hindik pakinggan ay nagagawa namang dumikit sa isipan ng mga tao. Tarpo bilang Recyclable na Materyales Gaya ng mga recyclable materials ay paulit-ulit ding ginagamit ng mga trapo ang mga pangakong kanilang ipinaaasa sa mga mamamayan. Lingid sa kaalaman ng nakararami ay ni hindi naiintindihan ng mga trapo ang kanilang isinasambit.
DREXEL JOHN N. AMIT drexelamit@gmail.com
Alt Remixed kapakanang pambansa. Ang kilos na ito ay nagpapahiwatig na lahat ng mga hinaing, maliit man o malaki, ay mapakikinggan lalong-lalo na kung ito ay kontra sa panghihimasok sa soberanya, karapatan, at hurisdiksiyon ng bansa. Hindi man kasing lawak ng pambansang gobyerno ang sakop nito at hindi man ito kasing laking entidad ng mga dayuhang bansa, malayo naman ang abot ng mga boses na bumubuo rito. Tunay nga, walang entidad ang natatanging pulo sa isang karagatan. Kung kaya, hindi maikakailang ang paninindigan ng isa laban na sa mga inhustisiyang nakapalibot sa kaniya ay maipapasa rin sa iba. Tulad ng pagtindig ng Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Palawan laban sa hindi makatarungang pagbabawal ng Tsina sa pangingisda sa West Philippine Sea, nawa ay mamulat rin ang iba pang antas ng gobyerno at matutong tumayo laban sa mga manlulupig. Sa huli, ang laban para sa ating mga karagatan ay hindi lamang laban ng Palawan ngunit ng buong bansa bilang isang nagkakaisang nasyon.
Kumbaga, wala silang ganap na plano kung paano susugpuin ang mga problemang panlipunan, tanging naka-eengganyong mga salita lamang ang kanilang puhunan. Tarpo bilang Pamunas Kung hindi man gumana ang kanilang paglikha ng nakalilinlang na wangis o muling pagbulalas ng mga pangakong wala namang laman, takbuhan ng mga trapo ang mga marurungis na taktika tulad ng pagpapakalat ng mga maling impormasyon upang masabotahe ang nasa oposisyon. Halimbawa ng mga ito ay pagpapamukhang mangmang ang kalaban at pagpaparatang ng mga walang katuturang haka-haka. Likas sa kanila ang pag-atake sa persona ng kalaban sa halip na magpokus sa kanilang sarili. Tunay ngang hindi na maiaalis sa politikal na aspeto ng bansa ang mga tradisyunal na politiko. Hindi naman maisisisi sa mamamayan kung madali silang malinlang sa halimuyak ng mabangong pangalan o sa kinang ng gintong suhol. Ngunit, bilang bumubuo sa isang bansang demokratiko, dapat na pag-isipang mabuti kung sino ang iboboto. Sa darating na halalan, dapat maging mapanuri at iwasan ang mga trapo!
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KAUSWAGAN SANG PAMATAN-ON
Pinakauna nga Youth Advocacy Fair sa siyudad, ginhiwat NI EJ NELL VOEN A. FLORENDO Sa pag-selebrar sang International Youth Day, nagtipon ang mga organisasyon sang mga pamatan-on sang Bacolod para ihiwat ang pinakauna nga Youth Advocacy Fair nga gintemahan “YOUTHniverse: Pagtipon sang mga Pamatan-on”, nagligad nga ika-21 sang Agosto. Agud maeengganyo ang mga pamatan-on nga mag-intra sa tagsa-tagsa nga grupo, walo ka organisasyon ang nagpa-uswag sang ila adbokasiya kag kaaayuhan paagi sa pagtukod sang ila nga booths sa basketball court sang Barangay 10. “Gin-organisa ang ini nga fair sa tuyo nga mahatagan oportunidad ang mga pamatan-on nga maghiliugyon kapin
pa sa sini nga pagtilaw,” suno kay YEY! Chairperson Coleen Awit, nga nagdugang pa nga isa ini ka pamaagi agud mapanami kag mapamayo ang development programs sa siyudad. Lakip sa nagpartisipar ang Akbayan Youth (AY) - Bacolod, Youth Empowering Youth Initiative (YEY!), SocFem Bacolod, First-Time Voters Network-Negros, Children Optimization for the Revitalization of the Environment, Youth for Mental Health, Sowing Legacy Movement Inc., kag Agila Bacolod. Nanari-sari nga aktibidades ang ginbuhat sang programa kaangay sang Baybayin workshop, menstrual hygiene kag napkin donations, voter’s preregistration, mini-hinampang, mental health consultation, photo booth, knot-
ISTORYA GIKAN SA PULITIKA
Mga isyu sa BCD sang Halalan 2022
PAGTAMBONG. Isa ka pumuluyo sa siyudad sang Bacolod ang nakigbahin sa pagparehistro para sa Halalan 2022. - KARL BRIAN T. MARQUEZA
Kung aton malabyan ang mga ginpanghaplak nga itsura sang kandidato sa miskan diin nga poste kag kita makabaton sang kung anu-ano nga ayuda dala duhol kwarta, aton maabot nga ari na naman kita sa tiyempo sang halalan. Halin sa peligro ka COVID-19 asta sa pag-inaway sang mga kandidato, ari pa ang iban nga mga isyu samtang nagapreparar ang pumuluyo para sa Halalan 2022:
ang iya pagkadismaya sa pagpalaba sang voter registration asta Oktubre 30 kag gintawag ya ini nga “super spreader activity”. Suno kay Ang, kontrolado na kung tani ang mga kaso sa siyudad kag ginkilala na ini bilang isa sa modelo sang “pandemic management” sa bilog nga Western Visayas antis nagdinaguso ang mga botante halin sa gwa sang Bacolod. Dugang pa, lapit 300 ang nadakpan sang mga awtoridad sang Septiyembre tungod sa paglapas sa mga health protocols pareho sang curfew kag social distancing.
“Super spreader activity” Wala napunggan ni City Administrator kag Emergency Operations CenterTask Force Executive Director Em Ang
“Battle Royale” ka Bacolod Pagkakita pa lang sang mga residente kay anay Negros Occidental Third District Rep. Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez
NI ALYSSA NICOLE T. MAQUIRAN
tying, kag pagbaligya sang merchandise. Ginsiguro naman sang Agila Bacolod, grupo sang Eagle Scouts halin sa Boy Scouts of the Philippines, nga nagasunod sa health protocols ang mga tawo, kung gani nagpamutang sila sang mga COVID safety placards kag nag-monitor sang temperatura kag social distancing ka mga umalambit. Sa tuyo nga mabinag ang tingog sang pamatan-on sa paghimo sang mayo nga mga bulut-an, ginhangyo man sang mga organisasyon kay SK-Bacolod Federation Chairperson Ayesha Joy Villaflor ang pagporma sang Local Youth Development Council (LYDC) sa siyudad. Nagpanawagan man ang SK Federation sa tanan nga youth organizations sang siyudad nga maki-ugyon sa 19 nga posisyon nga kinahanglan para matukod ang LYDC, kay kung ini matuman, magabaton sang tagsa-tagsa ka budget ang ila mga proyekto. “Ginapaniguro ko nga magapadayon kita sa pagpaisug sang youth organizations, lakip na ang mga pamatan-on nga lider halin sa grassroots level,” siling ni Villaflor.
nga halin sa opisina ka COMELECBacolod, hinali nga gintawag “battle royale” ang halalan. Ini tungod bisan kaduwa na ginkasuhan petisyon si Benitez para mapahalin sa listahan sang mga kandidato, ginpasugtan siya sa gihapon ka korte sang Oktubre 4 nga makapadalagan para maging alkalde mayor. Sa piyak nga bahin, ginpaathag man ni Familiaran ang isyu nila Bacolod Rep. Greg Gasataya sang nakita sila nga nagkampanya nga wala ang mga duag sang Grupo Progreso. Samtang nagsiling si Familiaran nga mapabilin siya sa partido, naghalin naman si Gasataya kag naging independent nga kandidato tungod “neutral” na siya. Ginsikway nga mga aplikasyon Bisan naglab-ot na sa 20,518 ang mga rehistrado sa siyudad halin Hulyo tubtob Septiyembre, ginklaro ka Election Registration Board sang Oktubre 18 nga may ara sa gihapon 34 halin sa 99 ka aplikasyon nga wala ginbaton tungod gindudahan ang ila puluy-an. Luwas sa voter registration, may ara man mga certificate of candidacy nga ginsikway tungod indi kumpleto ang mga dokumento pareho kay Rommy Gustilo, isa ka empleyado nga mapadalagan tani sa kongresista. Matuod gid nga pinasahi ang halalan sa dason nga tuig kay ara kita sa tunga sang pandemya. Apang aton man siguraduhon nga nagparehistro kita para magboto sang insakto nga kandidato agud amo na ini ang maging pinakauna kag pinakaulihi nga halalan nga may presensya sang COVID-19.
Aries (March 21–April 19) It’s either waay ka gid ya labot sa ulubrahon or nauna ka pa sa deadline— panghusay man bala, dear. Learn to balance, updi nalang si teta magpa-threading sang kilay samtang gaklase, chos! Expect good grades soon dear ah. Taurus (April 20–May 20) Taga luto o bakal ka tuod sang pagkaon sang grupo pero doble ya imo serving. Medyo sabit lang tayo sa grades sismars, kay kung naka-unmute ka lang tani, mainspire man guro ang klase simo mga huragok. Gemini (May 21–June 21) Ikaw ang keyboard warrior sang grupo, te ready gid kamo kung ang thesis defense niyo thru messenger chat lang. Your grades are decent naman pero untati bala dyanai libak kag rant sa Twitter every five minutes, basi you’ll do better pa, eme. Cancer (June 22–July 22) Juicecolored, ikaw nalang gid tanan nagahimo? Tamang “Sakit tiyan ko, sis”, tapos ang sabat mo man ya nga “Huo ako nalang bahala, get well soon.” Oh ha, syempre taas ya mga grado mo, naluoy na lang mga stars simo. Leo (July 23–August 22) Huo, pisan ka man gid kung individual
ang ulubrahon, pero pag group work ya? Madasma ka gid sa mga challenges this sem, so di gid magsalig kay ikaw lang mabudlayan sa ulihi—don’t let those leadership eskelz go to waste, darling. Virgo (August 23–September 22) Wow, mare! I like your Notion profile, pati mental breakdowns ginschedule mo na gali? Charot! Expect ekselent grades this sem, sis. Di sagay pangita improvements simo work kay gakaubusan na corrections si Grammarly! Libra (September 23–October 23) Kis-a gakadugayan imo hilimuon kay may last minute changes ka pa—kung pamangkuton ka ano order mo sa inasalan, di ka pa kapili kung petso or paa. Medj nubo grades mo subong kay hilig ka mangilis answers. Chakto pa na bala tani, dzae. Scorpio (October 24–November 21) Sagad ka gid maghimo excuse sa klase. Shawtawt sa CENECO, mapatihan man nga pirme brownout sa area namon, chour! Expect average grades, kay need mo na ghed mag work sa imo class recitation, nakshi. Sagittarius (November 22–December 21) Daig mo pa ang panelists mo kay imbis nga defense, gatira ka ya offense! Damo
Acad reveal ba kamo? Thetha’s got you!
S15 ka tuod ideas pero that energy can be overwhelming bala. Okay pa man grades mo, punggi lang ang kadlaw kung makita si bestie samtang ga present. Capricorn (December 22–January 19) Di nako makibot kung ang una mo nga ginahimo sa morning is mangbukad sang Canvas kag Gmail. Don’t forget to give yourself a break, mumshie, hulma to ang husay ni mareng Aries. Siyempre, expect mo man high grades soon, kay sa chura mo palang daw kulang ka gid sa tulog kag shampoo. Aquarius (January 20–February 18) Ang cheerleader sang grupo, “Kaya ta ni guys! Stay positive lang!” bisan haggard na iz you kakacram ng tasks niyo. Huo, kis-a lutang ka, pero laban sa mga ginacontribute mo is very useful gid, sissy. You need to work on your grades though, mare. Gakalipat ka na lang nga ikaw na gali ang mareporting sa klase. Pisces (February 19–March 20) Mars, krayola naman you? Adele album ka, ghorl? Be strong, sis—mapisan ka pa man tani pero kinahanglan mo gid push kung makareceive ka opportunities for yourself. Kebs pa man ang mga grades mo ah, untati na da paminsar sa labidabs mo kay asta lang na sa dreams mo, ems!
CONNECTION FAILED
BY PERLYN JOY L. SUGANOB
BY THE NUMBERS As of 2020 Summer Olympics
14
Olympic medals grabbed by the PH
Source: Olympics Wiki
As of November 13, 2021
BY CHRISTIAN DOMINIC L. LEDESMA
As of August 5, 2021
As of November 14, 2021
As of November 9, 2021
Total COVID-19 vaccinations in the country
Enrolled Lasallians in the first semester
97
302,168
69,713,994
Source: COMELEC
Source: Digicast Negros
Source: DOH
No. of 2022 prexy candidates
LEISURE
Charotoscope: Chismisan with the Stars
Registered Voters in Bacolod City
7,020
Source: USLS Registrar
NegOcc debuts in BVR On tour NOBVC REACHES QF, BRONZE MEDAL MATCH BY ELIZABETH D. FERNANDEZ The newly-minted Negros Occidental Beach Volley Club (NOBVC) kicked off their Beach Volleyball Republic (BVR) On Tour journey in Santa Ana, Cagayan on Oct. 21, where they made the quarterfinals and bronze medal match for the women’s and men’s teams, respectively. The BVR, an organization aiming to develop beach volleyball in the country via nationwide tournaments and grassroots training programs, resumed their operations after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, welcoming the NOBVC to their league. The NOVBC’s men’s division was represented by Deanne Neil de Pedro
and Eljhay Ronquillo, while the women’s division had Team Delimondo composed of Bianca Lizares and Mary Jolyn Ebro. None of the Negrense hopefuls entered this competition as rookies, with a majority of them having multiple tourneys under their belt. Lizares, a Lasallian Bacolodnon, bagged a National Collegiate Athletic Association Women’s Volleyball title after being recruited by the College of St. Benilde Lady Blazers and was a former member of the Sta. Lucia and Creamline squads. “I have been to many BVR legs and have had the opportunity to reach the podium and it has really helped shape me into the athlete that I am today,” Lizares told Panay News, revealing the impact of her previous
PHOTO COURTESY OF BVR
experiences in BVR on Tour. Additionally, Lizares’ first-time partner, Ebro, was a Cignal HD Spikers member who trained in the University of Santo Tomas Beach Volleyball program, while men’s division De Pedro and Ronquillo have long been partners in volleyball bouts across the province. BVR On Tour held the two legs of the competition in a bubble setting on Oct. 2124 and 28-31. During the competition, Team Delimondo pushed through to a third round in the quarterfinals before ultimately succumbing to Team Creamline 2, while De Pedro and Ronquillo made it to the bronze medal match in the men’s division but eventually lost to EVI Construction.
COLUMN
ATHLETES’ MENTAL HEALTH
The crushing weight of gold
Jeret Peterson, Steve Holcomb, and If you get personally offended over a Johanna Bassani—these are the names stranger’s choice to prioritize their own of but a few Olympians who killed well-being, that does not paint you as themselves. a “patriot” or “a hardcore sports fan”; it Here is a sad statistic for you: rates of makes you selfish and insensitive. anxiety and depression in elite athletes Honestly, sometimes it is more may be as high as 45 percent, according about the coach’s ego than the athlete’s to the British performance—who Journal of Sports If you get personally offended over cares about broken Medicine (2019). a stranger’s choice to prioritize their bones when you could That is almost half own well-being, that does not paint be a world-class trainer, the athletes we see right? Say it with me, you as a “patriot” or “a hardcore on the screen. everyone: Do not sports fan”; it makes you selfish Simone Biles force someone to do and insensitive. was one of them. anything against their In the recent 2020 Tokyo Olympics, the will! entire world was caught up in a heated But there is more—every prosperous, mental health discussion after Biles, well-rounded athlete needs a good the most accomplished gymnast of support team. Philippine Sports all time, withdrew from the esteemed Commission Chairman William Ramirez competition after concerns on her dubbed Hidilyn Diaz’s team the mental stability. And to my unpleasant “template” to Olympic success, and that surprise, there were so many people four-man squad came with hiring her very who bashed her for the decision. own sports psychologist to build mental She does not exist to serve you. strength as well.
HANA PATRICIA RAJ E. HAUTEA hanapatriciahautea@gmail.com
TW: SUICIDE This touches on how much financial support a pro athlete really needs to make it to the top. Money cannot buy happiness, but lack of it can certainly lead to depression. In the pandemic, it is honestly so easy to become machines focused on ticking off one task at a time. But we are not machines. Some of us may not be considered humans—hello, corrupt politicians—but everyone deserves peace of mind. If you are a struggling athlete, dear reader, know that there is no weakness in needing to rest. No matter what anyone says—no matter what the world says—make the decisions that are best for yourself. Remember: Mental health is health too.