The Class 2019 - Vol 64, Num 1

VOLUME 64 . NUMBER 1 | JUNE 2019

FOUNDED 1956

facebook.com/thespectrumusls · thespectrum.usls@gmail.com VOLUME 64 NUMBER 1 · JUNE 2019

TRUTH REACHABLE ONLINE

HEZRON G. PIOS

STARLENE JOY B. PORTILLO

JOSHUA L. MAHILUM

ANDREA DANIELLE A. GAMBOA

Editor-in-Chief

Managing Editor

Associate Editor

Asst. Managing Editor

MARTINI M. FALCO Newspaper Editor IVEE E. MANGUILIMOTAN Asst. Newspaper Editor MA KRISTINE JOY R. BAYADOG Magazine Editor LANCE CHRISTIAN M. JUAREZ Online Publications Editor KYNAH RHEA B. FUENTES Literary Editor DISNEY MARIE L. ESPARTERO Layout & Graphics Editor ALEXANDRA V. BACHOCO Asst. Layout & Graphics Editor ALFREDO JR. R. BAYON-ON Creative Director and Photos & Videos Editor

ANYTIME, ANYWHERE.

Literary Writer

ALVIN BRIAN S. LEGARIO Layout & Graphics Artist

KATHERINE E. CO

READ NOW AT

issuu.com/TheSpectrumUSLS

Photojournalists

KARL BRIAN T. MARQUEZA ALYSSA APRIL H. RAVADILLA GERICO T. GUANCO Illustrators

CARL HASON T. GERALE ANNA THERESA S. PARAYNO Editorial Assistant

IDA SARENA M. GABAYA Publication Moderator

JEAN LEE C. PATINDOL

FIND US ALSO AT @TheSpectrumUSLS @TheSpectrumUSLS @thespectrum.usls

The Spectrum is the Official Student Media Corps of the University of St. La Salle.

Its editorial office is located at the USLS Student Activity Center, 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@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.

Above’s neither a greeting nor a tongue twister. Rather, this foreign term thematizes this issue.

Look it up. Parse the imagery. You have the tools, the access, and my consent. Scram while you can.

What do I mean, you ask? Well, nothing’s exquisite. In fact, you may now gobble up your friend’s or your friend’s friend’s human interest story right after this address. Don’t shy away. You’re squandering seconds. It’ll be fine if you flip this sheet already. Do it quick then never look back.

Wait. You’re still reading this part? That’s novel. Why am I being meta in the first place? You willed yourself up to this point. Was I amusing enough, reader? Did I urge you to speculate? If so, my aim is fulfilled.

A potent collective power lies through the narratives herein. This is me prompting you to be receptive. To question infinitely. To move the Self through variations. To practice selflessness.

Because the world will continue to betray us. What, then, makes an amulet for the blurry future?

It’s the economy of lessons, sliced and eaten, time and time again.

Keep going. You’ll get there eventually. I’m sounding didactic but regardless if it is a quiet celebration of smaller feats or crossing out a once scarier goal, you’ll get there.

Eventually.

HEZRON G. PIOS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

PHOTO BY MARTINI

M. FALCO

editor’s note

Avenoir.

THE COVER Here’s a guesswork: If your reflection on the mirror can respond to your ramblings in a physical way, would it be close to a clone? Can this clone, then, curb one’s life in exponential ways?

In Rianna and Ria’s case, they both complete their sentences.

Their clothes were matchy-matchy since birth. Their zest for sports guarantees them a high on life. They are twins hard to be toppled.

So if you do have a clone, you still must be your own person.

Someone who can play the devil’s advocate but, in the same breath, become your very backbone.

Read more about the Corteza twins on page 41.

If you were to restart your life, name a memory that you want to be kept permanent.

Compiled by: Hezron G. Pios, Disney Marie L. Espartero, and Lance Christian M. Juarez Photographed by: Martini Falco, Millen Gela, Mariano Javier, Lex Nillos, Dale Gugudan, Anna Theresa Parayno, Sydney Espartero, Moira Severino, Jorge Gamboa, and Starlene Joy Portillo

STARLENE

HEZRON Many moons ago, I was hyperactive but mostly alone as a kid. When my nieces squandered their afternoons with siesta, I’d rather patrol our backyard and frolic with my ‘action figures’ (hands rendered as Naruto characters). Somehow that younger Hezron is my stirring metaphor for a lived experience in the suburbs: content with my own imagined worlds.

I remember my mother frustratedly struggling to correct how I first held my pencil. She kept training me to use my right hand instead of my preferred left because that’s how it’s usually done. I kept on sobbing and complaining about how wrong it feels, until I eventually wore her down. Seventeen years later, I’m still writing. Left-handed, and doing things the only way I know how: my way. In another life, I would not want to forget all the little nuances that define who I am.

ANDREA

JOSHUA The day I painted “The Tree of Hopes and Dreams”. I gotta make sure I give it to the person who inspired its existence.

IVEE As endless and infinite as it is, the ocean is a place of swerving emotions across the purview of it all. From excitement and thrill to tranquility and contentment. The sea is the companion I always run away to. My parents took me to the beach before I could even walk. It has always been a part of my life and I would want to keep it that way.

KRISTINE If I were to restart my life, I’d choose to not keep traces of memory. I’d want to start it all anew—no scars, no wounds, no temporary people (although those factors are inevitable).

round table

I’d like to keep the memories of my childhood with my brother. Assuming that I wouldn’t be able to keep all of the life-changing moments that I’ve experienced with him, I would choose to keep the memories of him teaching me acceptance, kindness, and unconditional love. If those memories would carry on to my next life, I’d probably have a pretty good one.

If you were to restart your life, name a memory that you want to be kept permanent.

KYNAH

MARTINI I guess the time where my nai nai’s still alive and everything’s laid out and that’s what I really missed and want to keep forever.

DISNEY

I wouldn’t want to change that moment I started to have faith. That was when I finally discovered my real purpose in life! *winks

IDA

The past and the future cannot coexist, so I would prefer to forget.

That way, I can give justice and independence to my future self.

The life I am currently living has taught me that it is better to move on with a clean slate than to cling to memories of what once was.

I’d keep no memories. Restarting your life means a clean slate.

round table

LANCE My 16th birthday. That one afternoon sent countless ripples throughout the timeline of my life. I didn’t know the implications of what happened that day. I didn’t know so much of who I am came to be solely because of that one impulsive decision. Who knew? Who knew that pleasure and pain were amplified when codependent. The years were very Stockholm.

ALEXANDRA Probably that one moment when I saw few fireflies lingering in the guava tree in my backyard. As a naive 8-year old kid, I stood and gazed at these magical little creatures, awestruck. Now when I come to think of it, it feels a bit uncanny.

FREDU It’s a memory of someone kissing me in the middle of the night where we kept saying good night to each other instead of sleeping. It was a night of love.

contents CAS

10 13

She Who Made It Real // Denise Lianne Livioco A Mountain of Mirrors // Alison Kate Jeanjaquet

CEd

16 19

The Damsel in Shining Armor // Lex Diwa Aloro No Debt Left Unpaid // Judy Ballentes

CET

22 25

Into the Future: The ‘IT’ Factor // Justine Espinosa Of Curved Lines and Animations // Karen Panganiban

CON

28 31

When Life Does Surprises // Jun Naries Abellar It Takes Love // Danielle Marie Duenas

YAL-CBA

34 37

Excellence in Humility // Stephine Paul Dungca Discovering the Right Pitch // Prescila B. Gardoce

USG ARTISTS’ HUB ASAO BALAYAN CELAM VSO

47 50 53 56 59 62

Excerpts from Louie’s Code of Governance // Louie Raner Interview with the Sensate // Isaiah Rafael Bunal The Boy Who Followed His Heart // Lance Fuentes The Epiphanies of a Would-be Engineer // Bryan Ropa Heavenly Calling // Ryle Lavilles Hear Me Roar: A Lion’s Legacy // Kalvin Paul Gelbolinga

PERSONALS

65 68 71 74 77 80

Epistles for Future’s Past // Joshua Martin Guanco Trudging Through Uncertain Times // Maria Angeline Mayor Sa Tagpuan ni Bathala // Charlene Marie Lim The Golden Age of Something Good, Right, and Real // Nicci Bernelle Aguilar The CLICKS of My Life // Kyle Jyrax Sevilla Manila Nights // Keanu Joseph Rafil

ART BY ALEXANDRA

V. BACHOCO CARL HASON T. GERALE

blitz John Banville, an Irish author, once said: “The past beats inside me like a second heart.�

It is ought to be an indelible, thriving organ; a mnemonic; an archivist of our previous thought processes.

Over and above that, the following records are charted from a gamut of advocates, leaders, and artists in their own right.

Young Lasallians whose social spheres spurred conversations.

Peek into the panorama of their second hearts. Let them simmer for a long stretch of time. *** The Spectrum would like to thank the following individuals: our generous interviewees for guiding us straight to their hearts; Ms. Jean Lee Patindol for her grace with fire; Rianna and Ria Corteza for embodying our creative vision; Alyssa Ravadilla for hosting the photo shoot; IMPRESS Quality Printing for their stellar service; and God Almighty for sustenance and empowerment.

THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA THE CLASS 2019 THE CLASS 2019 THE CLA

COLLEGE OF

ARTS AND SCIENCES

WORDS BY VICTORIA MARIAN B. BELMIS PHOTOGRAPHED BY KARL BRIAN T. MARQUEZA

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In a family gathering, everybody was drowned in festivity: eating, drinking, mingling - except for one. For about 30 minutes now, a blonde was looking down as if in an act of prayer. But she was not praying at all. She kept scribbling on a piece of tissue she got from a box in front of her.

And that was the birth of another film.

Black Ink on Pages She, Denise Lianne “Denli” Livioco, was 10 when she knew that filmmaking is her passion. Denli hid the idea at first because it seemed impossible, especially considering that she is a girl. After all, the field is dominated by men.

Denli is someone who is very passionate in art, may it be filmmaking or anything that tells a story. Her head, covered in black hair back then, was always full of ideas that just sprung out at any moment: eating dinner, riding home, or lying in bed. Whenever her light bulb turns on, she would write it on whatever paper or notebook she has in that very moment.

Denli had her first experimental film with her friends back in high school. It was entitled “Pages” which revolved around the story of a girl named Lily. Though it doesn’t have the solid plot nor the quality comparable to her recent films, she would always revisit this whenever she

feels the need to be reminded of how it all started: her humble beginnings as a filmmaker and how much she has grown in the craft.

Before entering college to take up AB Communications, she made her first serious film which was entitled “Release”, a story that tackled human trafficking. According to Denli, most of the films she has written came from her personal space.

“When I’m speaking my own truth, that is when I create amazing pieces,” Denli shared. Her stories are the extension of herself, and she’s always trying to inculcate a portion of herself among her characters to make the story more authentic.

Pink Project She didn’t just focus herself within the confines of filmmaking throughout her four-year stay in the university.

For her Senior’s Project or individual thesis, Denli developed the She/Her/I Project that stems from an advocacy very close

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to her heart. Her project aims to be inclusive as well as mitigate violence against women (VAW) through empowerment. The advocacy she started, however, wasn’t a smooth single take.

At first, Denli received negative comments from people around her. Some said that her project was too difficult and that no woman would ever share the story of violence they had gone through. It was tough, but despite the criticisms regarding her project, Denli pursued nonetheless.

After launching the #DearDiary Movement, which encouraged women to share their own story of struggle and be heard, her Facebook page was flooded with messages from women who wanted to speak up about the circumstances they experienced; others shared their gratitude for such project because it made them feel liberated.

“It made me very happy knowing that the effect is so internal, genuine, and real,” she added.

Denli didn’t have the budget for her project but the support from volunteers was overwhelming. Her project included counseling sessions, self-defense classes, and also a screening of her film, Lagaw-Lagaw at the Safe House Screening Room where Denli got to share a piece of her own story.

“It was very heartwarming to hear all the affirmations from women saying that this is what need: [an] empowering and supportive space,” Denli expressed.

She and her volunteers’ hard work paid off, not just because of the great impact She/Her/I left, but also because it was awarded as the Best Senior Project from a pool of 33 other projects of this year’s graduating Communication batch.

All the Colors of the Rainbow She may change her hair color whenever she feels like the tinge of azure blue might be magnificent or a striking blonde will match her current mood, but Denli’s passion for film will never, ever change. Denli feels the need of going after her dreams and letting the world know that women can be directors—that women are competent directors. She feels the responsibility of producing films that are not just aesthetically-inclined but also empowering.

“I feel like there is this responsibility for me to create authentic stories about women,” Denli said with conviction.

With a long list of outstanding films as a director, writer, and actress, Denli has garnered a lot of recognition in the local, national, and even international scenes such as the 1st SineNegrense Film Festival, Cinema Rehiyon 9, Diwa Filipino Film Showcase, The 28th CCP Independent Film & Video Festival, and Josiah Media Festival at San Antonio, Texas.

Denli had her own share of ups and downs. Her ideas are sometimes out-of-this-world, but she makes things happen.

Whenever she puts her mind into something, she never stops until she achieves it. She plans on continuing her advocacy and pursuing her dream, but as of now, she wants to be practical.

She is a woman, an artist, and an advocate. Her goal is to empower women through her art.

And as the number of women who look up to her grows, may there be more out there like Denli who aim to inspire and uplift women amidst the circumstances they’ve been through.

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May there be more tissues not to be filled up with only amazing plots and scripts, but also tears of happiness from people touched by her story.

COLLEGE OF

ARTS AND SCIENCES

WORDS BY LANCE CHRISTIAN M. JUAREZ PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARTINI M. FALCO

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Four years is undoubtedly a really long time. For most students, four years were waves and waves of adversity, hardfought on manic nights—prolific but bloody. For others, it was an uphill battle of dreams and passion. But for Alison Kate Jeanjaquet, it was four years of trekking inward, onto the path less known and less trodden—the Self.

The Hike Before embarking on the path she took though, Kate did what all aspiring freshmen do: think questions that ultimately lead up to a decision. What course will I take? Will I be able to handle it? How do I rest easy knowing the sheer implications of this one, seemingly innocent, choice?

When the time came, Kate had already made up her mind. “It was my mother’s dream for me, and luckily it was also the course I wanted,” she said as she recalled her choice of enrolling in the university under the basic accountancy course.

Naturally, surprise welcomes itself onto every new batch of freshmen—in Kate’s own words however, she was “culture-shocked” during her first semester.

Going further into the past, Kate was a high school graduate from The Living Stones International School (LSIS), Bacolod. Unlike traditional schools, the LSIS uses the School of Tomorrow (SOT) learning system. Students are given the privilege to set their own goals based on

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their personal rate of learning. Due to this, Kate was blessed with a sense of self-discipline and responsibility at an early age. But since the SOT system is not used in La Salle, it put Kate’s abilities to the test.

Kate was hit with a grave realization as she attended her first weeks of school: she knew very little of her course.

What ensued were long nights, and even longer months of woes. She grappled with the barrage of unfamiliar topics and managed pre-requisite subjects that she did not take up during her high school years.

In the end, Kate made it out alive. But at what cost?

Kate dreaded the thought of struggling like this for the next years of her life. And so, it was at this point that Kate challenged her initial decision—with another decision. Basic accountacy wasn’t for her, and with careful thought this time, as well as her mother’s support, Kate stripped herself of her yellow streaks and settled with green. She shifted to psychology and finally her college life truly began.

The Climb When asked what lesson surmounted all the others when studying her vocation, Kate answered with little hesitation, “Understanding.” Each lesson struck a chord with her even during her early days of wearing green. She made her subjects a means to familiarize herself with herself—the person she’s always with but never really dove into before.

Her course made her appreciate the qualities she nurtured through circumstance: responsibility because of her high school curriculum; self-reliance due to her introverted nature; and independence due to her mother being busy with work around the country. She started to know herself—warts and all. “Psychology is an interesting thing, it makes you feel elevated and sublime,” Kate added.

While others mingled with social groups, Kate was busy connecting the dots of her character in introverted trances.

She didn’t mind spending time alone as she was mostly raised by adults who taught her how to rely on herself. The glimmers of introspection were her silent triumphs.

With knowledge comes understanding, and with understanding comes acceptance. For context, the first thing people notice about Kate is her small frame. She inherited her short stature from her mother’s side—causing her to be underestimated and judged by the people around her, and even though it was subtle at times, she was aware of their thoughts.

“In the past, people’s opinions [about my height] really impacted me emotionally and mentally [...] but over time I made sure their words didn’t get to me or show that I was hurt,” she said, “I didn’t need to level myself with their words—I am a unique person made by God.” Kate knew that it wasn’t a flaw, but just a part of herself—someone who has made peace with her low selfesteem on her way to where she is now.

The Summit Over the course of her journey, she cultivated a sense of confidence and decided to step out of her comfort zone.

She landed a position in the College of Arts and Sciences Council as the Executive Assistant Treasurer during her sophomore year, and was even a member of the Production Support Group during her last two years in college. Having

climbed up so high from her past self, Kate had one more hurdle in her way.

About a decade ago, Kate was in her elementary school days. It was during this time that she knew one of the biggest truths of her life: her mother wasn’t her real mother. Over time, she unearthed more of the story. Kate’s mother was underaged when she was pregnant with her, and thus Kate grew up without knowing her father, and was raised under her aunt as well as her grandmother. Kate held on to this truth all the way until last year.

However, Kate did not manifest a grudge nor hatred for her biological mother—she lived through a meaningful and happy childhood despite all this. “While I was growing up, I realized I grew up with so many blessings and that my family raised me well,” she reminisced. And when it was time to talk to her aunt about this—she had already made peace with it.

“When we talked, it seemed like nothing had really happened in the past. I just became thankful that she chose to raise me rather than abandon me,” Kate added.

Kate did not just learn how to understand, but also how to be thankful for the things she’s been given throughout her life. “I believe that you can only move forward if you let go of your past,” Kate concluded.

After finally taking one last look at the path she embarked on—at all the twists, turns, and stumbles—Kate finally declares this mountain: “conquered.”

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COLLEGE OF

EDUCATION

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WORDS BY DISNEY MARIE L. ESPARTERO PHOTOGRAPHED BY MILLEN ANDRE E. GELA

There were no drums to declare the onset of the mutually-agreed battle, no hands to man the empty cannons. Clad in sando and tsinelas, the young sheknight, mounted on her war-bike, prepared to go full throttle on the terrains of highland La Castellana.

Clutching her makeshift bamboo lance on one hand and steering her war machine with the other, she advanced to face a friendly foe—her younger brother.

In a showcase of superb skills and strength, the setting sun, the fleeting clouds, and the passers-by birds stood witness.

For Lex Diwa Aloro, that was not just makebelieve. This is her childhood memory—proof that not all girls are in need to be saved by a prince.

Little did she know that she would soon meet her partner-in-crime in the form of her younger brother, Ibarra. The two would soon grow to be inseparable. Lex shares that the way they were raised was unique.

“As children, Ibarra and I were not allowed to watch Filipino teleseryes. Tatay would only allow us to watch English ones, which also plays a part why I learned the language,” she recounts.

The firstborn of Fernando and Corazon Aloro, Lex was educated at an early age—recalling to have been enrolled in elementary school at the age of five.

The young Lex cultivated a profound desire for books, fostering her love for literature.

“I remember when I was ten years old, Tatay would make me read To Kill A Mockingbird. He believes that equality and racism should be learned at a young age,” she narrates.

Lex displayed some of her preferences as a kid, admitting that she used to play with children outside her classroom during grade school. Playing with the lower sections seemed more fun to the would-be teacher.

Inspired by her parents both being educators, Lex set out on a journey to be one as well. After years of hard work, she graduated Summa Cum Laude with a degree in Bachelor of Elementary Education Major In English. Despite finishing tertiary education with such recognition, she admits that she does not consider herself as smart.

“I graduated Summa Cum Laude not because I am the smartest in our batch. Neither am I diligent.

There are those who are smarter and more diligent than I am. I just want [to be a Summa Cum Laude and] more,” she stresses.

Despite getting high marks, Lex admits that she has repeatedly cried over her grades. The first time she received a line of eight grade during her freshman year, she cried and deemed herself a failure. Though a confessed grade-conscious student, she can also get careless at times.

“We had this exam in Rizal which was modified true or false. I rushed in answering that I didn’t even read the instructions. All of my answers were correct,

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but I didn’t get a perfect score,” she shares.

Lex also enjoys the classes of Miss Hazel Atilano, whose students fondly call Miss H. Not only did she teach her lessons, she also influenced Lex’s choice in books, recommending Eugenides. Lex tells that she can relate to Cal Stephanides in his book Middlesex and also sees herself in Holden Caufield, the protagonist in J.D. Salinger’s The Catcher In The Rye. But at times, when the battle gets too tough and the weight of stress gets under her armor, Lex retires to her hideout—at their rooftop where Mt. Kanlaon’s peak can be seen from the bushes of bamboos at their purok.

However, the ladder got recently cut down to make a little house for their rabbits, which were given to her and her brother as graduation gift from their parents.

“I wanted to name them Gimble and Mimsy, from Lewis Caroll’s Jabberwocky. But my youngest niece couldn’t pronounce Gimble so now they’re named Cosmo and Raphina (from a movie I love),” she explains.

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before graduating high school, she also went on a trip alone and got lost.

In her effort to prove that she is not the wet blanket of the family, she tried to impress her cousins by sneaking out with them at night during the Holy Week.

“I tried to impress my cousins by sneaking out with them at night. We went to this closed pool, and I jumped off a bridge while still in my pajamas to prove that I can be spontaneous,” she shares.

Despite sudden outbursts of eccentricities, Lex still stays true to her nature—an introvert. “After I jumped off the bridge, I went missing for a little while. Nanay and my boys found me around midnight. I was the only one who was scolded, even though we all sneaked out, because I separated from the bunch,” she narrates.

Now, she de-stresses by feeding them, staring at them them, or joining them in their little house (which, ironically, was made from the bamboo that used to be their ladder).

She may be easing her way into adulthood but Lex stays a kid at heart. During school events, she could always be found near a cotton candy machine or a candy shop, indulging herself in sweets. Once in a while, Lex can be found skipping on the halls, or giggling because of a dorky comedy song that keeps on playing in her head. Just be careful not to make her angry, for she sure can shout.

The mental giant has her own share of quirkiness although sometimes she may appear intimidating. Not only did she trespass a private property with her best friend

Though there may be bends along the road, Lex faces each day as it comes, raising her lance and conquering each problem, treating each day as an adventure.

COLLEGE OF

EDUCATION

WORDS BY MA. KRISTINE JOY R. BAYADOG PHOTOGRAPHED BY GERICO T. GUANCO

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For most students, if not all, there is no scene sweeter than waking up to a morning with both parents readily available to aid you in preparing for school—getting served breakfast with mom’s cooking and getting accompanied to school by dad. This must be a nice sight to start a morning, but not with Judy’s daily routine since her loss in 2012.

Judy Ballentes is a fresh graduate of the College of Education who took up Bachelor of Secondary Education, Major in Physical Science. She portrays herself as a hands-on student and obedient daughter to her parents.

Not growing up from a well-off family, she makes sure that she gets to repay her parents’ self-sacrifices with the academic achievements she received at school.

They may not be rich in material possessions, but she and her elder brother were taught to practice abundance in attitude and wealth in knowledge.

When she was in her elementary years, she told her dad that the University of St. Lasalle was going to be the school of her dreams—where she’ll shape her goals and life success for she wanted to someday graduate as a Lasallian. Thinking it was not possible, her father would always tell her that she’ll never get to step into a school as prestigious as La Salle, but then she would refute her dad saying: “Gusto ko Lasallian ko kung makagraduate ko.”

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Her mother is a plain housewife—teaching the importance of attitude is the best lesson she has lectured Judy. She describes her mom as a Godcentered person—the one that has a strong hold in unfaltering faith and sublime attitude. She is the one who sees to it that the family is intact. Whereas her father,

a barangay electrician, is her personal tutor, especially in mathematics. She recalls that every time she has difficulty in her homework, she always runs to her dad to help her solve complex formulas. With his help, she surely excelled. And because of that, she grew a dependency on him, thinking he’ll always be there.

At the light of her first year of high school, she was collectively starting to make her plans for college.

She was eager to study in La Salle and no other school, but a sudden loss happened which caused her to be temporarily taken aback. When she was 14, her father died of tuberculosis of the bone—her dad suffered fractured bones in his spinal column. Those were the moments that she thought everything went downhill for her and her family.

According to Judy, it was hopeless and tough to lose a member of the family, especially a parent, that served as their breadwinner. Mathematics has become more difficult now that her dad wasn’t there to teach her anymore about equational problems. Personally, her dad’s death affected her academic performance, whereas the bright path towards her goals and success went sideways.

She recalls her dad telling her: Tanan nga handum ko

para sa akon kaugalingon nga wala ko nadayon, kabay pa bawion mo sa imo tyempo. She had no idea what to do. Her loss of a father and a tutor demotivated her to keep herself together— she intentionally went home late at night and neglected her academic performance at school which caused her grades to be at risk, affecting her standing and credibility in her scholarship grant.

But eventually, Judy recovered from it and began to rise up again. Her teachers aided her in coping up with the lessons she missed. Gradually, Judy redeemed herself from the loss. Years passed and she was able to survive high school.

But here comes college—she almost neglected the idea of enrolling at USLS. Thankfully, the BACPAT Youth Foundation granted her a slot for a scholarship grant, and that gave her a free pass to study in her dream school.

Just as she was getting used to the green-blooded environment, another bitter event struck her during her second year in college—her mom’s death due to a breast cyst (that could have possibly led to breast cancer). Her mom’s death meant mourning once again. Thinking she had already lost one parent, now she has to deal with the grief of losing one parent again and at the same time, hold onto the reality that she has no one to help her anymore but herself. In losing both parents, Judy had a tough time surviving both in life and in academics.

After the gloomy rains of her life, she was able to see the rainbow. Thankfully, she still had her friends from her course, her family, and her faith that kept her together. She sought refuge from them after experiencing those sudden deaths. Her fellow Blue Dragon friends gave her extra reasons to pursue her course and her family (her aunt, especially) supported her through financial assistance. Judy strived harder than before. Everything fell into their right places and went in harmony again. She promised herself to do better and do greater in her academics for she wanted to make her parents proud.

“Both of my parents are my life foundations. My dad has taught me the importance of knowledge and education while my mom educated me that attitude and faith are my bedrocks as a human person. Through them, I have lived a balanced life,” she expressed.

At her last year in college, she was sure enough that she was able to fulfill her student goals—although she had lost both parents along the way—for her parents and for herself.

Judy graduated as a recipient of a Bro. Francis Cody award, FSC Honor’s Circle Highest Honor Awardee, the Most Outstanding Student in the Field of Spiritual Service as Ministry Volunteer, and as a Cum Laude in this year’s graduating batch of 2019.

For Judy, she graduated college fulfilling her goals as a student, and fulfilling her promises to her parents who raised her as an obedient and loving daughter, and to her aunt who supported her through her college endeavors after her parents’ deaths. Her goals: fulfilled; their sacrifices: repaid.

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COLLEGE OF

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

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WORDS BY IDA SARENA M. GABAYA PHOTOGRAPHED BY MILLEN ANDRE E. GELA

“Roads… Where we’re going we don’t need roads.” — Dr. Emmett Brown An iconic line from Robert Zemeckis’ time travel classic trilogy Back To The Future, the franchise paved the way for technological influences in some breakthrough discoveries in the past 30 years.

Although the film did not accurately envision the year 2015—no flying automobiles, dehydrated food, nor any anti-gravity hoverboards, it did, however, inspire many computer engineers and information technology (IT) experts to challenge those technological advancements by turning them into reality.

“Technology is always vastly changing and for us [IT students], we need to cope with those changes,” said Justine Espinosa, who graduated with flying colors in BS Information Technology, Major in Web and Mobile Development.

It was hard for Justine in the beginning because his parents wanted him to take an engineering course.

He shared that his interest with computers was already rooted in him when he was in high school. Regardless of his parents who were unsupportive of his decision, he stood firm to pursue his course because he believed he will excel in IT. “I made up my mind to take up what I love because that’s what’s really important,” he expressed. Justine had no regrets—only gratitude—for all he has accomplished up to the end. One of the things Espinosa was grateful for was that his parents also began to accept his choice.

Justine learned a great deal of knowledge from his major subjects and professors that opened his eyes to the fact that we are living in a country that has outdated laboratories and software.

“As IT students we have to learn and do our own research just to keep up with the trends or else we will have a hard time adjusting when we go out abroad,” he advised.

Consequently, the IT department selected Justine among their students to take part in a student exchange program in Tokyo Metropolitan University (TMU) last 2018.

“It was a life-changing moment,” he excitedly stated as he narrated his tenure in Japan.

Like taking a kid to a toy store, Justine and his other colleagues were exposed to various high-technology computer laboratories in TMU. They were taken to the Hino Campus so they could learn and observe the Department of Computer Science of the university.

“They were creating applications that could really help not just in their school but their whole country,” Justine shared as he witnessed third year students create virtual reality applications and programs.

For him, the Japanese students were engaged in creating solutions that could change the world.

Going back to Bacolod, Justine, along with the graduating batch of IT students, was tasked to invent his own capstone project that served as their thesis.

Fusing the lessons he garnered for the past four years, he had to create an application or program that will aid an establishment or a community.

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The Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital was the recipient of an inventory management system for blood donations. Justine then expressed his pride that he and his thesis mates built the blueprint for the program for the said hospital.

In another world, Justine is juggling revisions of his capstone thesis, his internship in a local IT solutions company, other stressful graduating requirements he endures, and an active membership in his college council.

“When you work in a student body there must be no colors,” Justine stressed. It was difficult for him to adjust when he started off as the Vice-Governor due to a clash of parties—he was the only one from his party who got elected. Although he felt isolated, Espinosa fulfilled his promise to his college.

Since he was a sophomore, Justine left significant contributions which qualified him to assume the role as the Governor of the College of Engineering and Technology.

He stumbled at the chance of becoming the CET Governor when, unfortunately, both the Governor and Secretary resigned from their positions. He expressed his unease at the initial head count of his council, “The transition was really hard when I took over because we did not have a Vice Governor and Secretary for a month, [I had to fully] trust all the people that’s left.” Like a tiger, Justine kept himself grounded.

“The organizations I have been with have opened up my eyes to becoming a true leader or what a true leader means,” Justine explained. Joining the said organizations molded him as a passionate student leader.

Justine narrated that his root of inspiration was his father who was a public servant for almost six years. His father first ran as barangay kagawad and later positioned himself as a Sangguniang Bayan member.

“It’s in our blood to help and serve people,” the CET governor ended on an eager note, more than ready to advance into the future and shape society’s outlook towards public service and information technology.

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COLLEGE OF

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY

WORDS BY IVEE E. MANGUILIMOTAN PHOTOGRAPHED BY NICCI BERNELLE D. AGUILAR

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The sun rays kissed her porcelain skin. Singing and humming to the tune, the whistling wind vested her as she danced along with her furry friends to the melody she brought to the forest. She was indeed the fairest of them all. Snow White’s little helpers—aside from the seven dwarves—the rabbits, squirrels, fawns, tortoises, and birds touched our timid souls and reeled us closer to animated films.

On the early onset of television, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was the first and oldest feature length animated film released by Disney. Children were tickled pink by the hopping bunnies, grazing deers, and chirping birds—paving the way for dreams and fantasies to come true. Like many, young Karen “Wen” Panganiban’s passion for the arts sparked up in front of the tubby television set, making her envision her future in producing such animated films.

“I’ve always wanted to be an animator. As a kid, I was fond of watching Disney movies. But the ones that always caught my attention were the characters on the side, rather than the princesses. Mainly, the animals left me in awe and served as my foundation. From there, the pen and paper never left my hand,” Karen shared. She added that she was the only one in her family who had the knack for illustrating.

During her elementary days, Karen’s playground for harnessing her craft was the school’s publication.

Her artistic fervor broadened from notebook doodles to editorial cartoons. On her sixth grade, Karen qualified for the National Schools Press Conference. “No one believed I could reach the nationals, but I kept the fire within me and persevered until I made it,” Karen expressed.

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Wen carried her heart for student journalism and passion for the arts till her high school years. From first year to fourth year, the student publication was her safe haven. Frequently sent to various competitions here and

there, she was quite a well-known artist at her school.

In the midst of all these, money and school projects came into play. With a little sales talk, students from every level flocked to avail of her services. After saving up enough money, Karen purchased a printer to cater to the demands of her rising business.

“I wanted to buy new art supplies to expand my horizon and gain more experience in various fields,” Karen recalled. Additionally, her mother supported this and from then on, their family started up a printing business with branches at the towns of Isabela and Moises Padilla.

Karen graduated as the valedictorian of her batch and took up Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Major in Animation, of which many doubted and questioned her choice. “Most of my teachers protested and suggested medicine and engineering courses. They said ‘kasayang sa imo’, but I didn’t let it bother me because as long as my family supported my decision, nothing can break me,” Karen professed.

The collegiate path led her to The Spectrum, continuing her streak of endless editorial cartoons and illustrations. And in the pursuit of her craft, she still did commission works for people. On her third year, she won first place in the 2D Animation Category at the Digital Arts Contest hosted by BigFish Industries.

Three years later, Wen decided to leave the publication to pursue her calling to take charge of the Information Technology Society (ITS) as their Vice President (VP). In her term as VP and as part of the ITS outreach activities, she taught IT tutorials to senior high school teachers of Pontevedra and Calatrava, and students from Graciano Lopez Jaena Elementary School Madrasah Class.

By the same token, her toughest battle transpired on her senior year. One cold July morning, while doing her morning rituals and running late to her first class, Karen slipped on the wet bathroom floor and broke her right wrist, unfortunately missing her first period class. She was then rushed to the clinic and had her wrist checked, where she came out with an arm sling for her injury. Karen, unable to finish any output as she was entrusted by her thesis mates to handle the illustrations, knew nothing but to expect for the worst.

Along with her broken bone, her graphic tablet—the one she used for drawing—severed its purpose as well. With a broken bone and graphic tab, came along her broken heart.

However, she used her prize winnings from the BigFish contest to acquire a new one.

At her lowest point, she felt burnt out and grappled with depression for months. Her grades dropped and every passing day was like smudged ink on paper—things did not look good.

When Karen opened up to her family, she eventually decided to ask for professional help. Karen’s family arriving at a consensus was akin to a Disney film where the supporting characters provide their best in aiding the protagonist.

“I felt hopeless. I liked it better when I drew in black and white, but I never thought my life would turn into a grayscale,” Karen mused looking back.

But amidst the darkest clouds came her shining glimpse of light: Keep moving forward. Three little words—redefined her strength, polished the rough lines, and inclined her to take the leap—kindled Karen’s childhood desire and life-long dream.

The animated film Meet the Robinsons urged her to continue her dreams and rise to the occasion. Sleepless nights were spent trying to catch up on her academics to lift her grades up. She wasn’t quite ready to give up. Ultimately, she wrapped up the loose ends. Their thesis journey bagged Best Thesis - Gold Award and finished first for their beta-test.

Employed as an Associate Software Engineer at Accenture, Wen is still determined to become an animator and land her dream job at Studio Ghibli. “It may sound cliche but let go and let God. We have to remember to pursue our dreams, to never give up and to keep on moving forward. Our struggles and failures do not define us. In this world of constant doubt, we have only ourselves to believe in us,” Karen confided.

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COLLEGE OF

NURSING

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WORDS BY JOSHUA L. MAHILUM PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARTINI M. FALCO

The unpredictable is terrifying.

Many would find this statement true considering the fact that no one (technically) knows what tomorrow might bring. If this uncertainty of the future scares most people, it’s not the case for Nursing graduate June Naries B. Abellar, who dealt with life’s unpredictability years before he experienced it in his profession.

A dreamer with a goal Taking up Bachelor of Science in Nursing, June entered in college with one goal in mind—a Latin honor. “From first year to third year, it was my motivation,” he recalled.

With eyes set on the prize, June focused his attention primarily on academics. He used to spend hours every night making sure he doesn’t miss anything for a quiz the next day.

June also kept himself from joining any extracurricular activities for he believed it would affect his concentration.

And his diligence and determination did not fail him.

During his second year, Abellar was announced second best of his batch—a sign that he’s doing a great job in making his dream a reality.

Everything was fine until one day, a “call” changed his journey.

An unexpected detour Days before the end of his junior year, June crossed another path on his college journey. Without the knowing if he could carry on with the pressure and expectations, he decided to run as Secretary of the College of Nursing.

“At first, I said no. I told them I can’t do it. It’s a lot of work to do,” he said. But June, like most of us would, said yes out of love. A rule he imposed from the very beginning would be broken and he couldn’t believe he was about to do it.

“I ran because I wanted to serve my college,” he expressed.

According to June, no one wants to take the helm at the time but together with the encouragement of his colleagues, he pushed through. The next day, he found himself with his fellow candidates doing their pictorial for the campaign.

Formerly a student engrossed fully in academics, June welcomed a new role on his last year in college—a student leader.

Abellar admitted he had a difficult time juggling studies and duties at the same time. During his first months in office, he was startled by the work and responsibilities his position bestowed him with.

“I just said yes without knowing how heavy the load of a secretary is,” he shared.

Due to his divided attention, both his performance in the council and in academics were affected. There were times when he would miss to comply with some of his requirements and make it to their deadlines.

June also revealed that after he assumed his position, he was not checking his grades anymore until he graduated this March.

Seeing his current situation, June knew he’d already lost track of his goal.

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A bolt from the blue

the hard work she’s been through,” he expressed.

Abellar’s shattered hopes came back to life when he received one of his best gifts from God—his goal—a Latin honor. Weeks before his much-awaited graduation, he was overjoyed to see his name on the list of graduating honorees and, together with it were the words “Cum Laude.” He even couldn’t believe it for himself.

The celebration doesn’t stop there, however.

June didn’t expect that his unexpected detour would bring another milestone in his college journey.

“I just prayed to God that He would still fulfill my goal and thankfully God answered my prayer,” he recounted.

Last March 24, June marched at the center aisle of the Coliseum bringing with him his diploma and a medal, signifying that at last, he has fulfilled his goal. Two days prior to his graduation, June was also awarded with a Bronze Medal Clinical Competence Award during their Clinical Culmination.

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“There’s nothing more I could offer to [my mother] but this Latin honor. It’s one way of thanking her for being my mom, for being the family’s breadwinner, and for all

Weeks before his graduation, he and his fellow officers from the College of Nursing were overjoyed to hear that their council was named “Most Outstanding College Council” during the Corps d’Elite 2019 awarding night.

“It was really unexpected [because] we didn’t really go after the award,” June shared.

Right now, June is undergoing an extensive review for his upcoming Nursing Licensure Examinations bringing with him a realization that tomorrow is not a monster to be terrified of, but a surprise to be looked forward to saying, “Whatever life throws at you, the best thing to do is to make something out of it.”

COLLEGE OF

NURSING

WORDS BY KYNAH RHEA B. FUENTES PHOTOGRAPHED BY ALYSSA APRIL H. RAVADILLA

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“Whatever I do, I do it with love and passion.”

Denielle ‘Den’ Dueñas was never an achiever during her high school days. Having medals at the end of the school year was never her priority. While other students strived for excellence and for academic degrees, Den knew she will be fine as long as everything was in place.

Not until she stepped in college. There, Den realized and made it a goal to make her family proud of her, imagining herself on stage with her neck adorned with accomplishments.

Prior to entering the college, Den had conditioned her mind that her journey in college would never be that smoothsailing, envisioning a rough road to trod in pursuit of her goal.

But she was not informed that such road would be filled with needles that would make her feet bleed before she could even reach the finish line.

“I was not even sure what course to take for college, but I was pretty sure that I would have chosen a medicalrelated career. Only that, I was torn between being a biology, a medical technology, or a nursing student,” Den said.

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After weighing a number of reasons why she should take such, she decided to risk for a degree in nursing,

knowing most of her friends had settled for it. According to her, another factor for her choice were the faculty members she had known to be very approachable and friendly.

At this instance, she went through countless challenges and time management was the most burdensome. Den shared that at the start of her second year, aside from having classes, she was already exposed to several duties.

“You should know how to prioritize your time. You have to sacrifice as well some of your wants. The good thing is, at the end of the day, having done with your cases is all worth it. And finishing all your paper works is very fulfilling,” she emphasized.

Passionate, intuitive, and full of grit—Den had known herself for having these three traits as she went along through college. Once she sets a goal for herself, she makes sure she gets to achieve it. Giving up was never her thing.

Until then, Den’s firmness was put to a test. She recalls her most challenging experience: failing twice to properly execute a certain procedure on a client. Due to this, Den almost gave up, comforting herself that she may be meant for other courses.

Just when she was about to finally let go of nursing,

one of her clinical instructors talked to Den and spoke encouraging words to keep her going. This inspired her to continue pursuing.

Furthermore, Den admitted that she was not used to having failures and did not even know how to respond to them. For other people, even to Den, her experience was just petty but that was one thing which made her feel really down but at the same time strengthened her for the next challenges she would be facing.

“Nursing taught me to handle challenges pretty well and I was able to discover how to manage myself and to respond to them,” she remarked.

Right there and then, she was able to embrace the college department she was in. During her junior year in college, she started involving herself with the student council as the documentation committee co-head, engaging more into outreaches and medical missions. As she kept herself busy with activities, she found herself satisfaction and willingness to continue serving the college. Not long after, she was commended for her unfaltering service that people suggested that she should pursue higher office.

Of all those recommendations, Den never did think of spiking up her game since she had the dilemma of selecting between being a follower or a leader. Den would always consider being a follower without second thoughts. For her, it is such an overwhelming feeling to serve not only the college but also the community and the people they happened to help in their outreaches.

Like how Den accepted the risk of being a nursing student—out of love—she once again took the risk of leading their college’s council and decided to run for the position of governor.

“I love my college and I love the people in it. I love it wholeheartedly,” Den expressed.

As Den struggled to secure an academic achievement, she also had a hard time during her term as the College of Nursing governor to think that all of them, except for one, were newbies in the student council.

Den feared the freshmen recruits didn’t have that much experience when it came to the council. Luckily, she and her team were able to soar with their projects, overcome the obstacles, and surpassed the expectations of other people.

After all the hardships Den had gone through, everything was paid off when the College of Nursing student council was declared as the Most Outstanding Council during the Corps d’Elite 2019. Not long since, Den graduated as Cum Laude and was also a Bronze Awardee during their clinical graduation.

“Nothing is impossible with God. If you have faith, you will be able to overcome everything even if it means being alone,” she accentuated.

When asked to give advice to students striving for excellence, Den suggested that they themselves must do their own part. Den believes that each student can do everything with the right amount of support, passion, and perseverance.

“There is hope, there is love, there is generosity and courage existing in this world,” she shared.

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YU AN LOG COLLEGE OF

BUSINESS AND ACCOUNTANCY

WORDS BY JOSHUA MARTIN P. GUANCO PHOTOGRAPHED BY GERICO T. GUANCO

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On March 24, Stephine Paul Dungca walked into the the university coliseum as the highest achiever among 1,647 graduating students. With a cumulative grade of 1.1, he became the top summa cum laude out of the three produced by Batch 2019. Thus, he was tasked to deliver the valedictory speech in behalf of his fellow graduates on that fateful day.

I have known Stephine for four years now, and him being the top summa cum laude of our batch just solidified what I have seen him do during our stint as colleagues in The Spectrum.

Stephine was a very studious individual. In fact, every time I would go to our office, I would often see him seated on a chair with his eyes fixed on a bundle of papers that turned out to be his notes. Sometimes I would see him pacing toand-fro, reviewing himself.

As I was listening to his valedictory address, I can really tell that he deserved all of his awards, for what I saw during that fateful day was a man clad in the refulgence of his wellearned glory and excellence. But as he was approaching the end of his speech, Stephine shared a quote—a bible verse, to be exact. It was Jeremiah 29:11.

Fast-forward to April 15 when I had the chance to interview Stephine and ask him about his collegiate journey.

Upon entering the room, he offered me a handshake, smiled, and sat down. Little did I know what I was going to discover during that interview.

Stephine did not envision himself to be a summa. As a matter of fact, he did not know about the qualifications of being one. He just prayed to finish college even with just the cum laude honor, for being a Hospitality Management (HM) major himself, he knew that the nature of the program— most especially the industry—is very subjective.

But as the days turned into months, Stephine knew that there was something brewing. Oftentimes he would receive high scores from his exams and other outputs, and he continued this trend while exquisitely balancing his academics, student journo responsibilities, and his personal life. From there, Stephine knew that there was a chance for him to become the second ever summa cum laude of the HM program—the first one after a decade.

Knowing all of these, I thought Stephine’s ascent to the top was unbothered. However, upon his way to glory, he encountered what almost every HM student faced: stereotyping. He would often hear other people say that HM is an easy course to take because it only entails cooking— which everybody does. He even had an aunt who was surprised of his choice to take the program. Instead of choosing accountancy or biology, he chose HM. And this was because of one man: his father.

As a son of a chef in Dubai, Stephine was exposed to the wonders of HM at a young age. Despite the competitive nature of the industry, he never saw his father regret his choices. With the gift of hindsight, he really admires and commends him for his grit in surviving and acing the industry, and it proved to young Stephine that if his father can do it, so can he.

Stephine’s excellence wasn’t limited to his studies; he also had a good track-record as a student leader, particularly as the former club president of the Lasallian Society of Hospitality Managers (LSHM). He would often come up with activities for his fellow HM students to go to communities and to teach about various sources of incomes through livelihood education, with emphasis on the culinary aspect.

Because of his immense dedication for service, Stephine was offered by student party KAUSAP to run for the Executive Vice-President position in the waning days

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of academic year 2017-2018. At first he was hesitant, but being a club officer for years, he knew that it was the right opportunity for him to connect the academic clubs to the executive branch and to continue his advocacy on livelihood.

So, he did. However, Stephine lost in the elections. On the following morning, he was driven to school by his mother for a Corps d’Elite interview for his academic club, but LSHM wasn’t able to reach the top five that year. Subsequently, he also found out that he didn’t make it to the Ayala Young Leaders Congress. It all came crashing down for Stephine; it was a huge blow to his confidence. After all his sacrifices and hard-work that didn’t pay off, he began to doubt himself as he was entering his senior year. He was at the point of giving up his summa cum laude aspirations. But despite all of these, Stephine kept his eyes on the cross.

And that’s when he told me about his life verse— Jeremiah 29:11.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

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Amidst the hardships he was facing, it was the verse Stephine was holding onto. Amidst the heartbreaking downfalls, the silent breakdowns, the flaws—these were the words the man behind the medals and awards clinged to all throughout his collegiate journey.

This was the side of Stephine I thought I would never discover upon interviewing him. He was no longer the teen I knew back then. He is now a man. A man whose resilience and unwavering faith compelled him to trust in the plans God made for him.

And as the interview draws to a close, in front of me was a man who achieved almost everything in college—the gold standard of Batch 2019.

But when asked the question, “What did college make you?”, these were the words Stephine uttered: “A humble servant of God.”

YU AN LOG COLLEGE OF

BUSINESS AND ACCOUNTANCY

WORDS BY KATHERINE E. CO PHOTOGRAPHED BY MILLEN ANDRE E. GELA

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For a girl whose biggest pre-college dream was to sing on the La Salle stage one day, and who eventually ended up not only with numerous medals from vocal contests and table tennis matches, but also the ever honorable and prestigious Corps d’Elite award for being the Most Outstanding Club President, and her club as the Most Outstanding Special Interest Club—four years of university life was a tad too short. “[C]ollege is really different here in La Salle,” Prescila Gardoce, a graduate of Accounting Technology, expresses.

She adds that the reason why she chose La Salle was because it was her dream school—it’s quality education, and how it provides many opportunities for its students. She feels like that’s the thing other schools can’t really top.

For Prescila, however, she almost didn’t make it to her dream school. “Ever since, I did not expect I could be a student here,” she humbly professes.

She was an adopted child to her aunt, mostly because of financial difficulties with her biological parents. After being taken in by her adoptive parents while she was still a few months’ old, her foster-father passed away, leaving her mother to dutifully take care of her and her seven foster siblings.

“That’s why it was so much of a struggle for us [financially],” she carefully reminisces.

Now, looking back four years ago, Prescila says she would never have imagined to be who she is right now and to have ever come this far. “I can really say the Prescila before is very different from the Prescila today. [I’m] very strong now, and there’s really evident growth.”

Prescila credits this to her “self-discovery” experience in college—becoming the very president of the USLS-ISACA Student Group in her last year.

A special interest club that is a hybrid of diverse students hailing from both the Yu An Log College of Business and Accountancy (YAL-CBA) and the College of Engineering and Technology, ISACA promotes assurance and security risk management in the fields of accounting and technology, and envisions to connect students and professionals. Hence, the club caters activities such as professional talks and an annual academe summit.

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Her journey as club president didn’t start on a very confident note, however. “I also attended the previous Corps d’Elite and [the club] also won,” she recalls as ISACA managed to maintain a three-year-streak as the Most Outstanding Special Interest Club. “I was so pressured […] and I was so scared because I just didn’t know how to do that, you know?”

Fast forward to a year after, and they did just that again.

It didn’t come easy for Prescila, though. Aside from being an active student leader, she was also a singer who represented her college in many vocal competitions.

Such as on Battle of the Bands during the annual Summer Splash (where her team won twice on a streak), and on a Vocal Duet category during Araw ng Lahi (where she also emerged as champion). Singing was not something new to her—in fact, she’s been singing ever since her elementary years, and cool fact: her biological family are all singers like Prescila, all acting as her vocal trainers.

Gardoce has yet another trick up her sleeve: being part of the YAL-CBA women’s table tennis team, two-time champions in the annual Animolympics.

Juggling all these along with academics? She says it herself: It was no easy feat. The craziest time she can recall was just before going up onstage to perform during Battle of the Bands last summer, where she can still be spotted at the photocopier printing her thesis.

“The reason for that is actually because my thesis group members are all also really busy with extracurricular activities such as council work,” she expresses.

And all the while, she was also in the middle of organizing ISACA’s biggest project of the year, the Academe Summit. “We usually invite schools from all over Negros Occidental and Oriental, and our speakers are still from ISACA-Manila. Since I’m the president, I’m the one contacting them and all,” she explains, exhilarated.

The forces of uncertainty and doubt did not leave Prescila alone. “I would actually cry every night, and ask myself ‘Can I still do this?’” But soon enough, she was able to answer her own question.

“I really did go out of my comfort zone,” she proudly admits. One constant thing she would face throughout her term was the inevitability of forces outside one’s control, which tested her and her team’s initiative. “So I always had to learn to be flexible, [and] to always be mindful of everything that is happening. And always trust your team to also carry it through. That’s what they do to me as well, and so that’s how we were able to reach those achieved patience in so many ways. ments,” she mindfully adds.

With her barkada by her side, whom she already calls her life-long friends (who happen to also win as Squad of the Year during the Animo Grand Cup), and her ever supportive family who would never miss a performance to always cheer for her, she made it through all her struggles. “[Their presence] just makes you feel very zealous about life and want to do more to make them prouder of you,” she expresses with wonder.

“God’s giving me all these opportunities because He knows I can take and handle them,” she confidently proclaims.

Summing up her college years with her most moving learnings, Prescila gracefully shares: “Never be afraid to take risks, because you don’t know how it ends yet. Don’t be afraid to fail, because it is in failure where you learn. And what you learn from these failures will become your Inspiration to not repeat those mistakes ever again.”

And true enough, it was after all those years of singing and testing times when she finally discovered her own true pitch, and most assuredly, she will continue her song of growth and triumph as she prepares for yet another set list in her life.

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words by: Lance Christian Juarez and Disney Marie Espartero cover photo by: Millen Andre Gela inside photos by: Millen Andre Gela and Martini Falco art direction: Martini Falco production team: Hezron Pios, Lance Christian Juarez, Alyssa April Ravadilla and Chomin Aberasturi

AVENOIR

There comes a time when, in the heat of internal chaos, the man confronts himself. The act of metaphysical mitosis brings about an intangible extension of the soul.

Christened as Ria Prescial and Rianna Grace, the Corteza twins grew to be inseparable—wearing the same outfits, enrolling in ballet classes, reading Percy Jackson books, and eventually sharing a passion for sports.

Although the two are known as a formidable pair in football, it is not the only sport they play. In the arenas of frisbee and basketball, they can also showcase their unmatched synergy. When they’re not duking it out with their peers, another shared hobby ensues.

“We’re coaching softball and we’re training incoming grade nine students at St. Scholastica’s Academy,” Rianna stresses.

Almost indistinguishable at first sight, the Corteza twins admit their resemblance remains physical for the

most part. Akin to a double helix, they both have facets that, in spite of their uniqueness, ultimately compliment each other.

“Between the two of us, I’m the one who’s more responsible. They entrust me with house keys— everything,” Ria underscores. Meanwhile, Rianna takes pride in her being independent. “I’m more of an independent person. Kaya ko kung ako lang isa,” Rianna expresses, reminiscing the time when their mother went abroad for two years.

Rianna and Ria made countless histories as a duo, however, their personalities still evolved differently—Ria emerged out to be the introverted type as she exposes that Rianna grew to be the extrovert of the two.

“There are times when Rianna is the killjoy of the group. When we’re having fun, she seems to kill the mood with her seriousness,” Ria adds.

While the twins wish each other qualities and betterments—Rianna urges Ria to be more independent while Ria wishes her sister happiness in her next relationship.

“If you have a twin, you’re lucky cause you have someone by your side,” Rianna concludes.

USG

WORDS BY STARLENE JOY B. PORTILLO PHOTOGRAPHED BY NICCI BERNELLE D. AGUILAR

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My friends and I have always joked that walking with our classmate Louie Raner is like being on an election campaign.

No less than five people will separately come up for a high five, shake his hand, or hug him. Some will even take the time to squeeze in a quick chat, asking themselves how they were doing. This would leave my friends and I awkwardly standing a little to the side, waiting. Other times, when we’re oblivious, we’d keep on walking whereas Louie has been left behind, hurriedly exchanging pleasantries.

Being escorted for his pre-interview photoshoot around the Handumanan Park vicinity, the former University Student Government (USG)’s Executive President was met by two waves of greeting from colleagues, and a congratulations from a professor. Though his term has ended, he still remains to be the people magnet I have come to know.

1. Make great things happen “Leadership is somehow relational,” Louie shared.

“You have to connect to the students and understand where they’re coming from.” His take on governance is a telling of his outgoing nature. Claiming to be someone always seeking communication and companionship, Louie has veered away from an early far-flung route.

Initially, he was enrolled under the BS Marine Engineering course at John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation – Bacolod. But somehow, he found himself dreading the

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remoteness of being stuck for months on end at sea. “I am not the type of person that you can just enclose and coop up in one area. I want to surround myself with people,” he added.

Louie then took up Liberal Arts and Commerce (LiaCom), majoring in Communications and Marketing.

He was able to nab a full scholarship from the prestigious Aboitiz College Scholarship program that handpicks only around 15 annual scholars out of its hundreds of applicants.

Before his stint in the student government this year, the 22-year-old was known better for being the voice behind many of our school events’ programs. Beyond his voiceover gigs, Louie was also the president of the Rotaract Club of USLS and a chairman of the Eagle Scouts Organization of the Philippines – Bacolod Chapter. “[When] you’re a leader, there will come a time when your soul will really crave to serve. It’s innate,” he confessed.

By serving as the Executive President, he broke not only his vow, but also a ten-year presidential streak hailing from the Kausa sa Paghiliusa kag Pag-alagad Students’ Alliance for Progress (KAUSAP) party.

Being a staunch advocate of mental health awareness, Louie’s reign was hallmarked and praised for its thrust for the Youth for Mental Health Coalition—the first youth mental health organization in Bacolod City. The Lasalyanihan administration subliminally injected mental health and wellness into new school activities, such as giving out free coffee during exam season, free ice cream,

and dog shows. However, not everyone saw through these acts of service.

“I was met with some negative reactions, because I kept on giving. But it’s the students’ money; so it only makes sense to give it back to them,” Louie defended. He said that being an effective leader means giving the students what they want.

And what they want, as he has come to realize, is just to be heard.

2. Honor your father We were still aimlessly roaming around the park when Louie casually pointed to the then empty Montelibano chapel, which was at its most serene on an April afternoon.

“I have a special spot there,” he whispers. He recalls an instance where he just sat on the wooden bench amidst a praying crowd. Grasping a handkerchief, he cried as if he had the chapel to himself. It was during a time where Louie was going through personal anguish.

“It’s not time management, but self-management,” he says. “You have to compartmentalize your feelings because as a leader, everyone looks up to you and revels in the energy you give. Once you show you’re falling apart, it might create a domino effect.”

Being the boy scout that he is, Louie has long braced himself for the onslaught of school works and the taxing administrative tasks that shall entail the weeks leading up to the 2018 Lasallian Week. Three weeks prior, he found himself trying to divide his time going back and forth from the hospital and checking up on his committees at school.

“My father had a brain aneurysm and I was the only one with him. I saw everything: him being brought to the hospital and tubes being inserted into his body,” he recalled.

His father Lowell had poliomyelitis, an illness that causes nerve injury and muscle weakness which could result to paralysis and an inability to move certain parts of the body. After a few days of being hospitalized, he passed away.

“It was hard to let go of the man that I drew strength from as a leader,” Louie confessed. “He was the first to teach me that disabilities will never hinder you from success or the capacity to help out.”

Even so, Louie trudges on. Grieving silently, hidden by the nook of his sacred chapel spot, most likely.

3. There’s always something to look forward to Now being the man of the household, Louie strives to make more time for his mother and younger brother—something he has sacrificed before in favor of his student service.

“My year with the USG has given me time to reflect. And I think right now, I am the Louie Raner who asks the ‘why’ behind things,” he revealed. The former president’s quest for purpose and servitude continues.

In the meantime, Louie intends to give back to Aboitiz and serve a 200-hour deed in return for his scholarship. After which, he wants to venture into a corporate job with a great emphasis on its corporate social responsibility working for the community. A well-rounded business, according to him, should focus on its three Ps: people, profit, and planet. He’s not sure if it’s possible, but anything can be when you’re 22 and brimming with the idealism that most people lose in the process of finding themselves.

And I guess that is what makes Louie Raner a leader.

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ARTISTS’ HUB

PHOTOGRAPHED BY

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WORDS BY HEZRON G. PIOS ALYSSA APRIL H. RAVADILLA

Raffy and I have shared telepathy.

At least if the topic concerns Sense8. Within its universe, Homo sensorium, a canon species of human beings tethered by psychic association, are dubbed as sensates.

Their gathered form is called a cluster, and for four years straight since the show’s release, Raffy and I belonged to a cluster of our own making.

This kinship, I surmised, eased Raffy’s tension, and mine as well, the second we were seated opposing each other, with a mutual friend quietly streaming Netflix beside us. Meanwhile the nearest Neem tree screened the amber dissolving sun at Hamaca Cafe. I laid out my Jotter Pad with a set of questions inked in purple. We proceeded with the interview.

Isaiah Rafael “Raffy” Bunal has proudly lived twenty years of existence as a young, queer theatrical artist. His fervor for art is derived from his 2009 self surfing in Tumblr: a period of reblogging art-related posts with renowned works by the likes of Pablo Picasso and Vincent van Gogh.

To be considered professional in this industry, Raffy advised one should get in touch with the technicals, the production & design, and the acting aspect—to allot equal toiling and mastery regarding theater’s disparate sections.

Until one day, Raffy fell in love with Tony.

“He was a fun-loving, boisterous, hyper-masculine gay character [I portrayed] from Crossroads: Every Piece Fits,” he recounted.

Raffy further explored the elements of queerness he did not identify himself with. It piqued him how Tony struggled with being genuine even towards his best friend; how he employed lying as a means of earning money. Raffy deduced that it was difficult to easily ostracize people, mentioning the call-out culture in the process.

“Am I self-righteous? Do I have moral ascendancy over this person? [...] There’s like an in-group aggression within the LGBT+ community that we must face and talk about as queer people,” he stressed.

Come his fourth year in high school, Raffy attended the Bacollywood Basic Acting Workshop. Joining did not only introduce him to the basics of theater but also its hushed, eccentric universe. A year later, he was recruited by the Maskara Theater Ensemble (MTE). The craft immediately found its route to Raffy’s heartstrings. New doors were opened; empathy gained much more importance.

Raffy imparted how MTE disciplined him to live out the memories of a person. To produce and embody a person that is not just a character yet also a real human being.

“Something challenging was spreading myself too thinly in other areas of theater. But that led me to become more whole as an artist,” he shared.

In addition, Raffy believes, hands down, in the following:

“It was such a joy to create someone who is fictional but that’s the thing: art imitates life and life imitates art in return,” Raffy shared.

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1. That artists are like journalists; they, too, document human experiences. Those matters of the heart that no one really wants to talk about nor wants to deal with.

2. That it is an intimate experience to listen to someone’s catharsis or read a poem about someone’s heartbreak.

3. That art moves people. It brings about healing in a community.

4. That an audience coming together resembles a body; its parts becoming one.

5. That it is important to support artists who envision social change.

Aside from his artistry, Raffy is also a feminist. For him, one of the facts on why feminism gets a bad reputation is because toxic masculinity has birthed so many problems such as rape, street harassment, violence, and even the mere spreading of nude pictures.

Subsequently, Raffy discussed how equality in itself is a lie because one can never be equal with another due to our chasms in terms of privileges and circumstances.

Instead, the resolution should be narrowed to equity—the opportunities we are given, the respect we are given.

For Raffy, people only seek to be complacent with the present hierarchy. “Femininity should be cherished. It helps us express our emotions, the Divine Feminine,” Raffy added.

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art style, Mexican painter was a quiet influence in his showing up as a queer person.

In the eyes of the world, Frida’s life and times may be pitied as a tragic biography although Raffy sees himself impressed by the woman with the unibrow: a badass all throughout.

“She’s a feminist icon because she was androgynous.

That’s also something that I’m slowly taking pride in with myself: being androgynous and not really fitting into a box. I don’t even know if she did it on purpose,” he added.

Her self-portraits and his acting roles could almost meet and greet in the House of Frida at 21st Lacson St. as if in celebration of their pursuits. As if she and Raffy belong in the same timeline, in the same cluster of their own making, too.

“I do aspire to emulate not Frida’s persona but the energy of her resilience and social impact that she has opened up for individuals like myself who may not be 100% confident with who they are,” Raffy expressed.

Whether Raffy soon assumes the role of M. Butterfly (a European spy-turned-geisha in a war-stricken Asian country) or as a future panelist for Corps d’Elite in the category of Performing Arts (he won this year’s title, by the way), Raffy will just do what he does best: making art inclusive.

“What’s so wrong about being emotional?” he expressed.

In the background, the sky was a restless sea of pink, mauve, and turquoise. Passing cars and tricycles snapped us out of the interview. “It’s important to involve ourselves,” Raffy underscored.

Moreover, there are esteemed female artists that he looks up to: women who shook and intervened with issues on identity, gender, class, and race.

We finished our drinks; paid the bill; left our friend who just finished five or so episodes of Love, Death & Robots; hailed a cab; and waited for our course to Art District.

“Frida Kahlo is one of my idols. She was unapologetic for who she was [in spite of] the series of trauma she succeeded at,” Raffy exclaimed, citing how the naive folk

Thank goodness we don’t have to use our mouths to communicate all the time.

ASAO

WORDS BY MARIA ANGELINE M. MAYOR PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARTINI M. FALCO

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Life can be tough or good. It depends on how we perceive it.

For Lance Cary Fuentes who graduated cum laude with a degree in Bachelor of Science major in Psychology, nothing can get more hectic than his schedule of having to wake up at five in the morning, leave their house at six, report in the office at seven, attend classes and club meetings in the afternoon, leave school at 8:30 in the evening, and arrive back home by 9:30. All of these were on a regular basis.

Having the kind of schedule such as his says a lot about the kind of person Lance is, how he perseveres not only as a college student but also as a child to his parents.

It was in his sophomore year when he decided to apply as a student assistant to help his parents in their family’s expenses.

“I wanted to minimize their burden in paying the tuition. I also wanted to have work experiences while I am studying,” Lance shared.

He was assigned in the Instructional Media Center (IMC) which caters to the needs of students and faculty with regards to instructional materials such as liquidcrystal display projectors and speakers.

“There was actually a time when I was given a month to print all of the IDs of the freshmen because there was a deadline. I did it myself because my co-student assistants were also busy with their tasks,” he said, adding that it was a rewarding experience to see the fruits of his hard work when he had finished printing all of them.

Aside from his workloads, there were inevitable adjustments and sacrifices that were needed to be made.

In Lance’s case, he had to adjust his class schedules depending on the duty schedules given to him by his supervisor. This meant that he had to let go of his block schedule and be an irregular student.

“To be honest, daw na classmate ko na tanan nga course sa La Salle,” he expressed. Being an irregular student placed him in stress-inducing situations.

Working as a student assistant was a “never-ending call of duty” for Lance since it entailed hours rendered in the name of service from Monday to Saturday, even during summer and semestral breaks.

“We also work full-time during exams so instead of studying during exam weeks, I still render duty at the office. So what I do is whenever I get a chance to study in the office, I really grab it,” he narrated. Lance went on to study human anatomy, organic chemistry, physics, and several pre-medicine subjects.

While Lance dedicated a huge portion of his day at the IMC office and attending classes, he also made sure that he had an ample amount of time for his responsibilities as a student leader.

Lance started off as a committee head and a batch representative for the club. Eventually, he became the Internal Vice President of the Psychology Society on his fourth year in college.

“Before I entered college, I wanted to lie low and focus on academics and my scholarship but my heart for

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service prevailed,” Lance admitted.

his personal advocacy.

During his senior year, life got even busier and more “I never settle for mediocrity. I am a person who likes to defy tiring for Lance. Aside from his responsibilities as a student stereotypes—the stereotype that student assistants are hindered assistant and a student leader, he also had to give his best on to pursue other things aside from studying and working. In this his thesis, on-the-job training, and studies. way, I can inspire and encourage other student assistants,” the proud former student assistant said.

“It was tiring definitely but what I did was I endured everything. Telling myself that sacrifices will end and will yield Despite the hectic schedule and demands of his pain-relieving outcomes,” Lance added. commitments and extracurricular memberships, he remained victorious as he had received multiple fruits of his hard work in He sought advices from other people whose opinions the end. told him to give up his student leadership since it was eating up his time. His position was not as important as his Lance was the recipient of the following honors: Most academics and scholarship, they said. But Lance’s intuition Outstanding Student Assistant, Best Thesis Award both in the kept saying otherwise.

Psychology Department and College of Arts and Sciences, and his Latin honor as Cum Laude. Lance was also a finalist for Corps “I reflected and I told myself that Psychology Society d’Elite Outstanding Student in the Field of Student Service as a needed me. Despite the heavy schedule, I still pushed and Leader. chose what my heart said,” he expressed.

“I am passionate to graduate with flying colors, helping my Lance believed that applying as a student assistant and parents financially, and serving others. Once you figure out what saying yes to the call of student leadership were the most you really love, reflect and plan out how to reach them and always important decisions he ever made in his four years in college. do your best. And by doing your best, I mean simply pouring To empower his fellow student assistants and to prove them all your efforts without having to compromise your mental and that they can be whatever or whoever they want to be was physical health,” Lance concluded.

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BALAYAN

WORDS BY CHAD MARTIN Z. NATIVIDAD PHOTOGRAPHED BY KARL BRIAN T. MARQUEZA

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Futures can be fickle things. In just a sleight of thought, or a moment’s hesitation, we find ourselves taking a different meal, movie, or even college degree than the one we’ve so intricately pictured minutes, days, or years before. A sudden call of the heart and our future swipes to a different scenery.

Brian Ropa crossed his own moment of metanoia when he was faced with the urge to choose a co-curricular club in the second semester of his freshmen year. Being the former Editor-in-Chief of his high school publication at the Infant Jesus School, he had considered joining The Spectrum.

This was until he came across a poster for an essay writing contest organized by Balayan for Social Awareness Month. An enthusiast of social change, Brian took on the challenge of the competition and came out on top. It was from there that he was invited by the hosting club to join the ranks of their dynamic volunteers.

Years after saying yes to the call, Brian graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering and a propulsion for social change honed best by those who have invested themselves into fields of service. He was a recipient of an institutional award for community engagement and a special award from the College of Engineering and Technology that acknowledged him as “Most Self-Reliant Student”.

During college, he was an academic scholar.

Graduating as valedictorian of his batch in his high school at Aklan made him eligible for a scholarship grant from both the University of St. La Salle and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). Regardless, Brian claimed that he was “only an average student”, as he, too, experienced the common hiccups of college, and held grades iconic to that of an engineering undergraduate. Tacitly, he felt great expectations were projected unto him and so he made sure to never neglect his studies despite the exigencies of his club.

He was a dean’s lister for two years, and a Balayan volunteer for four and a half academic years. He would spend much of his free time within the Balayan office, doing tasks like planning for upcoming apostolate work in communities, editing and manning the awareness/advocacy booth outside, and, at times, facilitate the leadership training of other volunteers. Balayan was the second home that helped him cope with the distance between him and his family who lived an island away.

In hindsight, Ropa is especially thankful of how Balayan gave major importance towards student formation. He explained that most of their works in the club not only aimed to empower communities and the student body, but their own members as well. Social awareness, to him, is the core essence of a Balayan volunteer.

“You cannot respond to a situation if you are not aware of the situation in the first place,” he explained. “Since you are aware, you can already deliver solutions or resolutions for that matter, for that issue,” he continued.

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Brian affirmed that while it’s always okay to ask for help, you are also responsible to improve your own capabilities— something Balayan had done for him. Most of their activities involved directly engaging with people, and that helped improve his social confidence, as well as self-esteem to accomplish the tasks at hand.

“You don’t have to own everything just for you to help.

You don’t need to be the richest person. You just need to have a considerate mind, open arms, and [compassion],” Brian reassured.

On his second year, he was recommended and thus applied for a student exchange program destined for Belgium.

Along with five others, he had to learn about the foreign country’s lifestyle, government, and community through official classes at University of Namur as well as in day-today interactions. Within his two-week stay, he encountered their economical state first-hand and felt what it was like to be a European student. The whole experience was eyeopening for Ropa, as he described how it made him witness the noticeable difference between first world and third world countries.

“They have poor [citizens], but unlike the poor present in our county, there is a huge difference between them,” he specified.

On the plane ride back from Belgium, he couldn’t help but have goosebumps while peering over the window, taking in the bird’s-eye view of Philippines. In his mind were the

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thoughts: This is where I was born, this is where I was raised, and this where I will die. The program had further spiked his sense of nationalism, commenting how he does not need to go out and serve another country when there are already much here who require aid.

Before ending the interview, Brian made a point to add that there are numerous individuals of great potential residing in the country. Making his degree an example, he observed that chemical engineers have much to contribute here as there are enough resources that may be converted into products; however, these are taken for granted because they lack the innovation and financial support. That said, he invites everyone, especially Filipinos who might come across his story, to serve the Filipino people. “If your heart belongs to the Philippines, then serve the Philippines.”

Self-reliance doesn’t always mean maintaining autonomy from any and all support. It’s not just providing for one’s physical needs either. It’s making efforts to create conditions that encourage one’s growth as well and it depends upon us on how we make ourselves the biggest thing for, well, ourselves.

While Brian’s affiliation with Balayan began through a chance encounter, his service in the years that followed were never short in devotion and enthusiasm. He goes to show that it’s not enough to be “woke” (to have a perceived awareness of social issues). You have got to step out of that bedroom and be the light you want to see—the light that will rouse those around you into action.

CELAM

WORDS BY CHARLENE MARIE D. LIM PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARTINI M. FALCO

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“My mission in life is to share the Word of God,” recounted Ryle Lavilles, a Psychology student, Academic Achievement Awardee, Corps d’Elite finalist for Outstanding Student in the Field of Catholic Spiritual Service as Ministry Volunteer, recipient of Institutional Award for Campus Ministry, and above all else, a steward of God spreading His Word.

Ryle’s humble beginnings trace back to when he was just 11 years-old, when he served as an altar boy in the ministry of altar servers at San Sebastian Cathedral. There he started to develop an intimate relationship with God. Ryle learned about proper decorum and served four fruitful years until the summer before his senior year in high school wherein he encountered personal conflicts with his fellow altar servers. Eventually, Ryle decided to leave the ministry for good.

Nevertheless, Ryle’s calling did not end there. A devout Catholic, Ryle would attend mass in the university chapel. In one of the masses in which he attended, he saw a friend serving in the mass which perked up his curiosity.

Through this friend, Ryle found his way back to his calling— serving and sharing the Word of God. He shares that he only discovered the Center for Lasallian Ministries (CELAM) on the second semester of his second year, and became a fully-fledged member the semester after. Prior to his stay in CELAM, Ryle formerly belonged to the events committee of the Psychology Society and a member of ROTARACT club of USLS. However, it was only in his stay in CELAM did he truly feel nurtured and at home. “I got to meet new people who are also devoted to God,” he shared, contemplating his golden days in the ministry.

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Moreover, in his two-year stay there, two events brought a massive impact in his life: being of service to others, and to the church. His exposure with the Kalantas kids every Christmas party when they would both support and celebrate with the children in merrymaking manifested in Ryle’s routine.

According to Ryle, the aforesaid happening is actually a Christmas event that opened their hearts and filled their lives with joy and happiness. The children—their chosen beneficiaries—reminded him of who Ryle was during his youth. Once, he and his friends, organized a Negros-wide pilgrimage visiting 14 to 15 churches by which he dubbed ”an adventure to be closer to God.” Starting out as a collector for alms, Ryle always wanted to try something different, and later on delved into the task of a reader in order to understand what God is trying to tell him. “I want to understand what I’m reading—to let people know what God is trying to tell them,” he explained.

In his final stretch as a student, his academic workload got the best of him—thesis and internship combined whilst taking up additional units for his certification course, Human Resource Management. Some days, he would wake up with a reddened face caused by sleep deprivation which immensely made his mother worried because he was sickly.

On the other hand, Ryle pursued his relentless service in CELAM in spite of the many time constraints. He had a 10:30-11:30 a.m. class and would be dismissed at the very last minute, coinciding with the mass. However, Lavilles would run to the chapel, panting, just to participate in the Eucharistic Celebration and was even offered to be a commentator, since he wanted to continue serving our

Heavenly Father to help and guide him through trying times.

Initially, he wanted to take up BS Architecture, but seeing how difficult it is and hearing other people stop halfway through the course, Ryle decided later on to pursue BS Psychology instead due to it being a pathway to a lot of careers. “By the time I graduate, maybe I get to find what I truly want,” he expressed.

At present, Ryle has no plans of taking the board exams but is greatly appeased in coming back to continue serving in CELAM. In the near future, he would want to work in a healthy environment and start a new chapter when the time is right.

“For me, serving God is not just being a ministry volunteer or an altar server. I can serve God through praise and worships. I may not be an animator, but showing my commitment is already part of serving the Lord,” he shared.

won’t stop serving God, but I would also say that I will not stop praising and adoring God,” Lavilles expressed.

Near the end of our interview, Ryle imparts a few thoughts on his four-year stay in this institution: “Serve God. Don’t be too hard on yourself in spite of the many things that you have to do. I may have struggled but I did not stop serving God because I know the plans He has for me.”

In addition, Ryle attends The Feast every Thursday—a praise and worship service. There he learns new things through God’s teachings and verses that hold inspirational messages that would bring a significant impact in our lives.

“Now that I’ve graduated, I would not just say I

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VSO

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WORDS BY ALVIN BRIAN S. LEGARIO PHOTOGRAPHED BY MILLEN ANDRE GELA

Glancing at the score, the lion discerns they’re down two points. Ten seconds left, the lion whispers under his breath, the air is thick with the medley of both the cheering crowd and ringing of the whistle as his teammate inbounds the ball to him. The lion crosses his first guard without breaking a sweat, but just as he was about to drive the ball to score an easy two pointer at the paint, the opposing team flawlessly rotates, sending another guard—much taller than at him at full force. Without hesitation, the lion pulls a fadeaway jumper inches from beyond the arc. Swish!

The ball hits nothing but net.

Originally a local of Taculing, Bacolod, Kalvin Gelbolinga migrated to the United States when he was just five years old. While taking up primary and secondary education in the States, he was consistent in being in the honor list. Belonging to the top 10% of his class and ranking 20th out of 600 students, Kalvin was in the national honors society during his high school days.

As Kalvin was raking up academic excellence awards, he slowly fell in love with the game of basketball. Growing up, he watched his father play the sport. Eventually, Kalvin was trained by him closely. Middle school was when Kalvin officially started to play the game, rapidly improving in every game.

He picked up multiple laurels along the way such as: receiving an MVP in high school, being a two-time state champion for private school leagues, winning a division championship, and receiving an MVP award in a Filipino-

American basketball league in Texas.

All these experiences shaped him to be the elite basketball top dog that he is today, but it was not on the court when his basketball career really took speed. “You can’t get what you want without working hard for it. Whether if it’s practicing a specific move or helping your team win, everything starts with practice,” said the fiery point guard.

With that in mind, playing on the court or practicing his drills made no difference for this young lion. Kalvin perfected playing two positions, being that of a point guard and shooting guard due to his rigorous practice. The same intensity was brought on and off the court and honed his skills in the game of basketball to its fullest potential.

But it wasn’t until one of his father’s friends (a Bacolod native) saw his training videos, when he was offered the opportunity to be an addition to the University of St. La Salle Stingers. Pursuing his degree in BS Biology as a freshman at the time, Kalvin was reluctant at first yet after deeply pondering whether it was the right decision, he and his father were eventually convinced.

In his three-year stay as a Stinger, his team won as runners-up in the Negros Occidental Private Schools Sports Cultural Educational Association basketball men’s division in the Academic Years 2015-2016 and 2016-2017. In his senior year (the only year he wasn’t a part of the varsity) he led the Green Lions men’s basketball team to a championship during sportsfest. But this was not the final accolade Kalvin got

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when it came to sports.

“I got nominated for the Corps d’Elite for [the category of the] Most Outstanding Individual for Team Sports,” Kalvin shared proudly. To his surprise, Kalvin won the Corps d’Elite as the Most Outstanding Individual in the Field of Individual Sports. But, like most basketball legends, it was not all laurels and ease for Kalvin.

There was a point where an insurmountable obstacle seemed to loom in the corner. He, just like most students, had to overcome academic obstacles that were blocking his path towards getting his diploma. Being suddenly surrounded by a culture half a world away from what you’ve been used to is overbearing to say the least.

“They usually had given me an idea of how I was‘supposed to be or act’ and most of the time I wouldn’t fit into their so called ‘standards’,” Kalvin said.

When everyone had their prejudices on the young lion, he thought nothing of them and continued

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to tread through his journey. “I think the hardest part about transferring back here was getting used to the weather,” Kalvin said.

Beyond this, he wanted to focus on his academics even more, so Kalvin decided to quit the varsity life and went all-out in his remaining months, more so on the completion of his thesis.

This proved to be beneficial due to the fact that his group’s thesis placed 2nd runner-up in the College of Arts and Sciences Research Caravan.

With the final laurel under his belt of being a Lasallian graduate with a degree in BS Biology, Kalvin now intends to pursue a medical career, hoping to become a pediatrician. “I’ve always really wanted to help kids. It pains me seeing them in pain,” he expressed.

Looking back, Kalvin’s college life was nothing short of exciting. Leaving La Salle will be as difficult as the first few days he had coming back to his home country. But looking towards the future, he intends to bring all the lessons he has learned, both on and off the court, to horizons much greater.

PERSONALS

WORDS BY JOSHUA MARTIN P. GUANCO PHOTOGRAPHED BY NICHOL FRANCIS T. ANDUYAN

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Letter no. 1 Dear Joshua, It has been a full semester since you have come to terms with yourself to finally put down the pen, breathe fresh air, and start anew. Besides, you have been a campus journalist for the last three years of your high school, right?

Now that you’re in college, you told yourself that it’s time to focus on your studies—restricting yourself from all things extracurricular. And you did. But as the second semester approached, the call of the universe seemed too strong for you to ignore. You thought that you were done with writing.

You thought that you have closed the chapter of your life as a campus journalist. But that’s where the problem is: you thought; you never put it into action. Hence, you submitted to the call of the universe to reopen the pages that you once thought you have closed—you joined a school publication.

If I told you everything that would happen after you have asked a friend of yours to submit your application letter to the publication because you were shy, would you have reconsidered your decision? Nonetheless, congratulations on becoming a Spectre.

Letter no. 2 Dear Joshua, I assume you are surprised. Well, who would not be surprised on becoming an editor in a publication you just joined a semester ago? However, it seems like you did not even go out from that chrysalis of yours. It is just cyclic: you report for duty, stay inside the editor’s lounge, mingle with a few persons, complete your five-hour requirement, then leave. However, let me tell you this: it’s better to find meaning in there than in the classroom. In there, you will not just find friendship, you will find a family. I know that there have been days when you would find yourself in soliloquies, yearning for the feeling of what it is like outside.

But with just a little of perseverance and an open mind, you will find family in there—trust me.

Yes, there will be pitfalls—ranging from a personal to an academic note—in the future, but what matters is how you ascend from them. Despite these, you will find solace in a soul that you wish you didn’t ignore. In her, you will find a companion: someone who will ride the harshest and calmest of winds life will hurl at you.

Letter no. 3 Dear Joshua, Another year has passed, and look at where you are now: you’re on a different team, but this time with an even bigger responsibility. Nevertheless, you are not alone in this responsibility of yours, for you have a close friend with you. If I told you that this certain phase of your life as a writer will be holistically challenging, would you even dare to dip your toes into its calm yet black waters? You are going to push through an output that’s going to be delayed month after month after month, and it will really take a toll on you holistically. You are going to be at the brink of an abrupt end of this certain chapter of yours; it will make you question the journey you have taken. And if I didn’t say

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anything about this, would you, by all of your capacity, drench yourself into the waters without the certainty of surfacing again?

But hear this: if you power through the waves and undertow, you are going to soar like the gulls that ride the zephyrs that brush against the roaring seas. All you have to do is to power through.

Letter no. 4 Dear Joshua, Well, this is it. Congratulations on finally reaching the fourth year of your college life. After countless readings on the fundamentals of psychology, laboratory experiments with chemicals, as well as live frogs, countless glasses—gallons, dare I say—of milk tea and iced coffee, hopping from one cluster of friends to another, and all the articles and coverage assignments you have done, you are now face-to-face with what might be the most challenging part of your journey as a student journalist. From assisting in handling the online content of the publication, to assisting in handling the yearly magazines, you are now tasked to lead an organization.

Clearly, you have never imagined this upon entering The Spectrum, but it looks like reopening what should have been a closed chapter of your life has brought you into where you are right now: the honor of leading a group of diverse individuals who have the same heart with you for campus journalism.

But you should know by now that it won’t be an easy ride from thereon. Balancing your academics with your student journo persona wasn’t hard in the previous years, but the pressure of graduating as well as leading a publication will truly test you. There will be times that you will doubt yourself, and with that comes a couple of unreciprocated sacrifices: the tiresome nights, the

early awakenings on weekends that should have been devoid of work, the regurgitated efforts of powering through and reaching out, the silent disappointments, the unheard laments for help, the questions of self-worth—the holistic fatigue of it all. All of these will really challenge you.

But that’s where you will find epiphany, Joshua: in the middle of these hardships. That no matter how these hindrances will try to sink you to the depths of insecurity, doubt, and self-loath, you will find people—genuine people—who will lift you up. And this is the most important thing: always believe in yourself to power through every situation life puts you in. Always.

This is the last letter you will be receiving from me for now. Know that at the end of your journey as a Spectre, you have done enough— and that’s one heck of an achievement already.

For the meantime, good luck on your last year in the pub. Always stay true to your responsibilities, treasure your time with your colleagues, and most importantly, don’t forget to have fun.

Till then, Your future self.

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PERSONALS

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WORDS BY MARIA ANGELINE M. MAYOR PHOTOGRAPHED BY BERNADETTE MAYOR

Lucky are those who know what they want in life for they know which steps to take towards their goals and are eagerly taking action to fulfill them. Because life is full of uncertainties.

In my case, I am a person who has a number of doubts, worries, and fears. And I admit that I am envious of other people who know exactly what their dreams are.

Walking down memory lane, it was during our freshmen orientation in June 2015 when I entered the Coliseum without knowing anyone at all. Yes, I came to the university with no friends or even acquaintances (I grew up and came all the way from the Middle East).

Halfway through the event, I was already hoping for it to end soon because aside from the venue being very hot and humid, I didn’t know whom to talk to and I just felt lost.

Am I going to survive? I thought to myself. I have a shy personality and it wasn’t easy for me to make friends with strangers. I remember how impatient I was to leave the place, but I stayed. Fast-forward to a few hours later, I saw myself sitting on the covered court floor beside my newfound friends whom I made acquaintances with during the second part of the freshmen orientation for the College of Arts and Sciences. I went home that day with a happy heart.

Weeks later, I was starting to adjust to the new environment. After seeing the latest magazine issue of The Spectrum, I realized that I wanted to join the publication. I have read through the contents, and the quality they put into their works honestly inspired me. It’s so much different from what we had when we were in high school.

But the road seemed foggy again and I doubted myself. Am I capable? Are my skills enough to meet their standards? I was hesitant but I still tried, thanks to a friend of mine who also wanted to join the publication and was brave enough to take the exam.

The day for the screening came. I was interviewed by the former section editors and they told me that they’ll text me right away on the same day if I passed the first interview. After waiting for a few hours, I got no replies and I lost hope. I was frustrated but I just accepted the realization that it wasn’t meant for me. I went home with a heavy heart.

Three days later, I bumped into one of the section editors at Gate 2 and asked why I didn’t show up during the final interview. I was shocked, but more like confused, because I haven’t received any text messages from them and I thought that I didn’t pass the interview. No one saw it coming, but the next thing I knew was that I became the last person to join the set of new members of The

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Spectrum that first semester. I went home that day with a thankful heart.

AB Comm people can relate that one of the most grueling parts of the journey was the screening season in first year wherein all freshmen are required to undergo through a panel interview and pass a personal portfolio related to the course.

I remember I was at the photocopier area when I saw some of my other batchmates’ portfolios that had made me anxious. I saw that the pages of my folder were just a quarter of theirs and they’re even still printing more from their flash drives. And it was at that moment I felt as if a thundercloud just hovered over my head. Will I get accepted? Will I pass the screening despite lacking experiences in so many areas in regards to my course? I had no experiences in theatre acting, nor broadcasting, nor film. I only had my news writing background and a prayer as my weapons. But thanks to God’s loving mercy, I passed the screening.

The rainy days I had in my first year in college became rainstorms in my fourth year. Just like some other students, I dealt with many trials, hardships, and failures too. Aside from academic pressure, I also had to face a lot of personal problems. It had reached a point that I feared I won’t make it. The demands on my major and minor subjects and other responsibilities had made me lose my track. I really wanted to give up and quit everything then because the weight on my shoulders was too heavy to carry anymore. My persona as a responsible, hardworking, and studious person even added more to the pressure I was dealing with.

I just cried it all out (and ate a lot of food to cope up with stress) and a realization came to me: I can’t let down those people who believed in me. So I made them my motivation to continue on with life. I chose to walk forward despite not knowing where exactly I was heading to. No matter how uncertain I am with my life, I am still hopeful that my feet will bring me to a better place than where I used to be, along with God’s grace.

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There might come a point where I’ll question myself again for failing despite working hard. I might ask myself again what’s the point of all I’m doing if I’m going to fail anyway—it’s quite challenging to keep up with life. But now it made more sense that hardships and failures are, in fact, part of our growth.

So whoever’s reading this story, may it be a reminder for you to know that it’s okay to have doubts in life sometimes, just don’t forget to believe in yourself.

Continue working hard, rest if you must, but never quit.

As what the cliché quotes says: “There’s always a rainbow after the rain.”

PERSONALS

WORDS BY CHARLENE MARIE D. LIM PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARTINI M. FALCO

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If you need words of encouragement, I am just here.

It was the 12th of January and I was making my way out of a low-lit alley, swarmed by people, sporting an allblack ensemble. The crowd was wild as a new victor had been named, I rejoiced with them in jubilation but as I reached the nearest corner, I bowed my head and dragged my feet as my heart couldn’t fathom where I was headed in two weeks’ time after leaving home. Nevertheless, as I spotted an all too familiar face coming closer, I couldn’t help but embrace him—no words had to be said—in that brief yet tight embrace, I was home.

Prior to the commencement of my sophomore year, I was anxious why so many unpleasant things clouded my life. It was no rollercoaster ride, I continually submerged into the deep. The entire duration of the first semester of my second year, feelings of hopelessness and sadness resurfaced. I wanted to shift into another course. My grades dropped. I gained excessive weight. Personal life was rocky (I will not further elaborate on this). I was losing faith but I prayed.

Those five months were the worst days of college but a semester later, light started to seep in, in the most unexpected circumstances: uplifting one’s self-esteem through praising, little gestures of wanting someone to smile that may sound a tad bit awkward in a room full of people, and knowing the reason behind the sad face.

These little acts of kindness, not plastered to the world, but rather limited to the four walls are what I treasure the most because, after a long drought of pain, healing commenced.

Nung ako’y nanalangin kay Bathala naubusan ng bakit. Bakit ‘di siya lumaban kahit konti? Bakit ‘di ma itama ang tadhana?

When I first saw Moira Dela Torre’s music video for her song Tagpuan, I was getting ready for my 6 a.m. shift when all of the sudden, the events of Janvier immediately reappeared. Ang pagwala at pagtagpo ng pag-asa. Ang pagwalay sa lugar na kinalakihan..Ang pagdating ng matagal ng panalagin—taong masasandalan.

I was running late for my business math subject and I couldn’t afford to be late especially when I always find myself lost in between numbers, so I walked briskly along the corridors when a friend convinced me to come inside his classroom. I did a quick peep at the classroom that has yet to be emptied from the class beforehand and I followed him inside, timid and perplexed.

Students were exiting through the front door when he handed me the letters of sponsorship for our upcoming event. A face all too familiar from the front of the room caught my attention, it was the same person whom I embraced a few days before I had to leave home for good.

As soon as I exited the classroom, we ran into each other again. He inquired what was bothering me as if this kindred spirit knew what was going on inside my heart.

A few years back, I pleaded God if He can send me an ally, a guide, and a friend all rolled into one to be my pillar of strength in these trying times. After a lot of nos, this was my most successful prayer yet.

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Tagpuan taught me hope—that no matter the depth and the longevity of the circumstance that hinders growth and happiness, there is light at the end of the tunnel like that of the warmth from a friend whom I have not seen in five years.

It also came in the forms of joining a support group which instilled peace at a time of never-ending questions, receiving an unexpected greeting which brought renewed strength, wanting to open up and gain empathy, gaining a family through the Spectres who never fail to show camaraderie, obtaining constant reassurance and support from friends, family friends, and relatives, and getting an answered prayer.

regained it because this time, it wasn’t my timing but His. Therefore, you must never rush into something that would take its course because the outcome is never pleasant.

When you start to heal, everything follows. However, you must not dwell nor return to the environment that made you sick. Exhaust all possible means to get out of there, you owe nobody an explanation why you did what you did.

If you stay in that toxic hellhole, history will repeat itself again and again—there’s a reason why it’s called “history”.

Either it’s something worth remembering or forgetting.

If it’s the latter, I’d rather not write it again.

Ang pag-asang nahanap ko sa’yong mga mata.

Behind every closed door, every no from how you want your plans to turn out is a redirection into something clearer and better. Take it from someone who was shoved by so many closed doors—who lost her faith but later

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PERSONALS

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WORDS BY NICCI BERNELLE D. AGUILAR PHOTOGRAPHED BY MARTINI M. FALCO

We’re happy, free, confused, and lonely at the same time.

That was a random line from a Taylor Swift song. I had her CD playing in my car during the time before Spotify became a global phenomenon. Conveniently for this article, my car is a Suzuki Swift… and I’m 22.

SPEAK NOW. I graduated from a “mildly” conservative Christian school. There, we weren’t allowed to get near our male classmates because of the school’s “six-inch rule” where girls and boys were not supposed to be six inches near each other. Girls who break this rule would get reprimanded and gain an unfavourable moniker to boot.

The school wasn’t very helpful in developing students; it even barred some teachers who were genuine with their intent to help. However, I can say their teachings had somehow molded me to be strong.

There was a time where a teacher called my attention after I failed to spell a couple of words correctly during my spelling test. She told me that I should take up a

vocational program instead of pursuing a college degree, implying I didn’t have the mental capacity for it. There was also a time when my other teacher summoned my parents for a meeting and told them that I make no effort studying because I misspelled most of the words for an essay. I was dyslexic and that’s probably why she came up with those conclusions.

Now, I am proud to say I have graduated with two degrees. From those experiences, I’ve learned not to listen to people who bring you down. Although when you think about it, it’s actually quite entertaining to see the look on their faces when you prove them wrong.

FEARLESS. I was a bit withdrawn back then—people would seldom hear me talk. The things I’ve done in college were a far cry from the things I’ve done in high school: performing a live commercial for Filipino class, doing a declamation for speech class, and doing a sales pitch for a major class in marketing. If someone told me about these years ago I would have never believed them.

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I’ve always looked down on myself and never discovered what I was capable of before college, and I was naïve enough to believe and soak in all the lies they labelled me with. I grew to know that bravery is more about knowing your strengths and limits than anything.

RED. I felt like I’m here solely to fulfill my purpose or whatever—not to have fun and feel joy, like there are no seasons under the sun. After classes during my first year, I just went straight home while my classmates headed out to see the movies or catch up in cafes here and there. Not that I didn’t feel like talking to anybody—I had really cool classmates by the way—I just wanted to get it over with. I wanted college to feel like a breeze that would just pass me by. I couldn’t wait to get the hell out of here.

Everything was, well, red.

REPUTATION. Hands down, my third and fourth years were the highlight of my college life. I met the best people, had the most memorable field trips, and got to know myself more. I was also accepted into two business administration majors by accident. It did work out for me though, so I’ll write it off as a happy accident. There, I came to terms with who I am and what I could and couldn’t do. I also came to terms with the fact that some things are just better than others—like way better than others. Take MutienMarie Building’s air-conditioning for example, or Donburi’s Torikatsudon. They’re way better than anything else in and around the campus.

I also learned to save money so that I could splurge on food and drinks during the University Week and the Animolympics. I also found that fish balls and cheese sticks by the bridge outside Gate 1 are great things to munch on after overthinking about major requirements and exams. A mild caffeine addiction can be had from liking iced coffee. Let’s just say that college lived up to its reputation for surprises.

ME. After college, it’s going to be all about you. You shape your own destiny. You choose the path you’re going to take. How you respond to the people and the environment you find yourself in is up to you.

How long it’ll take you to make it out there, is on you. You alone have the power to make something out of the things God has given you. The world may turn its back against you but you must remember that you will always have yourself. The divines gave you a gift; that gift is you.

All of these matters taught me that what I am to become boils down to one person: me.

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PERSONALS

WORDS BY KYLE JYRAX D. SEVILLA PHOTOGRAPHED BY GERICO GUANCO

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camera which at the time felt like a treasure that I couldn’t fathom how much it costed. That was the start of the many clicks of my life.

Moving forward, I remember the first time I entered the campus as a freshman student of La Salle. The feeling of excitement and fear mixed up. I was excited and eager to meet new faces yet also afraid of rejection, of having no self-confidence at all. During my first year in the university, I felt that everything was just a routine—nothing changes, everything remains constant, and no challenges. I needed to click again!

I know there was a place in the university where I can express myself again and at the same time would allow me to continue clicking. When I was in first year, I thought of joining The Spectrum. Every time I saw photos and videos displayed on the monitor, I told myself: one day my photos and videos will be shown in there too. That always inspired me. I knew that one greatest click will change my life.

But because of the lack of self-confidence, I didn’t pursue that path. Imagine, I already had the application form and all—I already finished signing all the forms, and it hit me! It’s because of me that lacked believing in myself. I missed one click of my life that year.

The following year, June 2016, my university buddies Nicole and Joshua saw a hiring poster of The Spectrum looking for a photojournalist position. I knew I was good in taking photos but not linguistically able to translate it through words. Obviously, it wasn’t for me. Luckily, there was an available slot for a videographer needed. I knew in my heart that this might be my greatest click, my luck!

In order to be happy in life, you need to follow your heart to earn that happiness. Do what you love and stop caring about what others think. One life—change to live with it. I’ve changed a lot as a person over the past couple of years.

During my high school years, I’ve seen so many different students living so many different lives. So much sadness from people with so much potential—so much goodness. Over time, I realized that a lot of this comes from a lack of self-love and self-confidence. Lack of clicks, lack of capturing moments of their lives. What’s the greatest click of your life? What’s mine? What are yours? How did I capture every single yet unforgettable moments of my life?

This is my story…

My name is Kyle Jyrax Sevilla, a BS Information Technology graduate and a photographer/videographer.

How did I become a photographer? Ever since I was a child, I always loved pictures and anything artistic. I was always fascinated with photos and loved posing in front of the camera.

Growing older, cameras became my obsession.

Thankfully, my mother is very supportive of me in this field.

My mother got me a Fujifilm bridge camera as my first ever

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Manong RJ Ledesma happened to be the Editorin-Chief of that academic year. He helped us in acquiring the application form. Nicole, Joshua, and I applied. But to cut the long story short, I was the only one who got the opportunity to work with The Spectrum. Another milestone of my life—another click! Joining this organization meant having a new family outside my family. A family that I can share my laughter and my problems with. I’ve made new friendships that will last forever! I also learned a lot of things. In terms of photojournalism and videography, I can say that I have really improved.

I am really thankful that I joined The Spectrum—no regrets at all. I realized that I should always take risks. It’s better to get rejected than to live your whole life in regret.

True to my nature, photography became my real passion.

This passion and my true love for photography created a small dream and became a gigantic one: another successful click.

But of course, in my whole college journey, I also had many problems to deal with. My academics, friendships that had misunderstandings, and also within my family. But I’m not here to talk about all of them. It is okay to look back once in a while, especially when you are about to embark on a new journey in your life. As Lesley Warren puts it, “Trust your own instincts, Go inside, follow your heart. Right from the start. go ahead and stand up for what you believe in. As I’ve learned, that’s the path to happiness.”

Yes, following your heart can lead to your happiness. If something makes you happy, then go for it. Don’t be afraid of being judged because your happiness doesn’t have to make sense to others. Doing something for yourself is not an act of being selfish—it’s knowing what you truly deserve.

Just by listening to a camera’s shutter sound inspires me on a daily basis and thus underpins everything. I know the clicks of my life. There are times when the battery is low and so is the battery of our lives. But that doesn’t mean that I won’t start charging it again. I will until I know it’s fully charged again.

Just like a camera, life continues until it’s off and won’t be used again. Life is short to stop believing in yourself that you can’t do it ‘cause you can. Oh yes, you can. I can. We can. Continue clicking and never stop.

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PERSONALS

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PHOTOGRAPHED BY

WORDS BY KEANU JOSEPH P. RAFIL GILA INEFABLE AND KRYSEL ANGELI COMODA

“Maybe the grass is not greener on the other side. The grass is greener where you water it.”

This was a quote that I have read from a friend’s TinyLetter which I subscribed to. I have come to read it twelve hours before my flight back to Manila and it hit me like a shard of glass, stabbed in my gut. Has it made me thought about my decisions twice? Yes. Has it made me thought of staying and not leave the goodness of life at home? Yes. Has it made me want to not move out and not show up on my new job?

Absolutely, yes. This quote has given me a nerve-racking dilemma of whether I was making the right decisions in life.

Super Far from Home Manila is exactly how the people who came here describes it to be: restless, busy, crowded, and polluted.

The traffic is something you’ll swear upon. But I’ve gone to appreciate the city with the sense of independence and liberation it has given me. To feel so small but very collected in the streets with well-dressed strangers. The synchronization of the traffic lights guiding my direction and pace. The damp heat inside the underpasses reminding me that life is not just happening on the surface of the city but also beneath it. The song of traffic, though demonstrating impatience, shows me that everybody just wants to arrive to where they want to go.

These small, usual details of everyday Manila taught me that everybody also has their own ventures. Every street I cross is an intersection of my journey and theirs. And that’s what makes the city for me, beautiful. It made me value the things I thought I was already used to. It made me long for the emotions I thought I had outgrown. The lack of space is suffocating but it teaches you to appreciate the least of the ground you have for the taking, and the least of ground you can share. It teaches you what surviving exactly is: it is not fighting to keep yourself alive but rather living together with others so that all of you don’t have to fight for it anymore. You just have to be kind and generous, and the city will do the same for you.

I miss home. Definitely missing the people. But we have to outgrow clinging onto some pages of our lives for us to eventually unfold a new one. What is true will never perish they say. In the end, we all have to be alone on our ventures and we should learn to not base our personal worth with people we feel connected to. Growth requires space. Growth requires disconnection. Growth requires distance. Growth requires starting over.

Same Old Song. Life Goes On.

My journey here wasn’t easy at all. Though I got a job right after graduating last October, it wasn’t what I really wanted. I settled for it because I was afraid that I might be flown back home if I don’t find a job immediately. It was the first job interview I had and was my first hire. You may say that I am lucky to not have sweated it out looking for a job here in Manila, but to tell you, the succeeding days were appalling.

After a month, I was already burnt out. But I think God gave me a reason to make a move and change my career right after my second month. I resigned after two months of employment,

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and it felt like me shifting courses back in college once again. I’m glad I did.

From changing courses to changing jobs, it felt like a déjà vu of my college days—figuring what I am passionate about. A change of heart, as what I remember saying when people asked me why I shifted from engineering to psychology. I was on the same fate all over again. But now, I am much more equipped to face setbacks and definitely brave enough to swallow my pride and admit mistakes. I know I’ll be facing more in the coming days—much worse I anticipate. But it is the curse of life I suppose.

You can’t have all the good things, instead you have to find some of them within the bad.

Young Love. West Coast. Who Cares? Who Knows?

Roughly, my college years were a mix of bad decisions, failures, and reroutes. It was the longest-dragging days of my life and I’m glad the wait has ended. I’m already here and it’s not a cross-the-bridge-when-you-get-there situation anymore. We are not surrounded by cotton candies anymore. We just have to acknowledge that things aren’t going to be the same as we take on new routes. But despite these, eventually we will make it to wherever we want to be. We are actually too young to figure everything out but also too old not to try.

Maybe the grass is not greener on the other side. The grass is greener where you water it. Definitely... But I think this is limiting.

I have to add that the grass is also greener on the other side. It could be not on the same lawn nor on the same soil but in every part of the world, there are grasses that we can water, not just the ones we see. You don’t have to take care of the same lawn every day and settle for it just because you thought it is the greenest of greens you have seen. There are other lawns with different shades too that you might love even better.

So, let me rephrase the quote to: “The grass is also greener on the other side where you choose to water it.” Don’t limit yourself. Don’t settle on your safety net. Jump. Fall. Grow. In the end, who cares and who knows, right?

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PHOTO MANIPULATION BY

ALFREDO JR. R. BAYON-ON