Determinado makes history as first batch to hold pinning, badging rites ► CHRISTEL ANNE ALCOVEREZ & JANETTE YBAÑEZ
A
fter being cancelled numerous times due to the pandemic, the School of Criminal Justice Education (SCJE) finally held its maiden Pinning and Badging Ceremony for Class Determinado 2023 in the Jose Rizal Memorial State University-Siocon Campus (JRMSU-SC) covered court, February 24. The ceremony formally appointed and accepted criminology interns to the different law enforcement agencies to which they will have onthe-job training (OJT). The inspirational speaker PMAJ Jaime Marfil Tañola, Deputy Chief of Police of the Siocon Municipal Police Station highlighted that his burning desire and determination allowed him to finish the course, and that gave him a weapon to become a commission officer of the
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Official Publication of Jose Rizal Memorial State University-Siocon Campus
Manaol, Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte
SC
Volume I, No. 1 AY 2022-2023
the STATE COLLEGIAN SIOCON CAMPUS
MUDLY READY. Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) officers go through an intensive survival training program to advance their rank in the corps, May 29. | MC BRIAN JACK BUHAWE
LIFE AFTER PANDEMIC JRMSU-SC switches to in-person classes ► CHRISTEL ANNE ALCOVEREZ s the sun rises on a new academic A year, students at Jose Rizal Memorial State University-Siocon Campus
(JRMSU-SC) are settling into a new era of in-person classes on August 15, 2022, marking a significant shift from the challenges of modular education during the pandemic. The university adheres to guidelines provided by the local health authori-
ties and the government. Mandatory mask-wearing, social distancing, and regular sanitization protocols are enforced to ensure the safety of everyone on campus. “The College of Education sees to it that the enrolled students under the department can submit medical records, physically fit, and healthy. And of course, they should always wear their
Continued on page 5 ► IN THIS ISSUE ►
NEWS MARCH FOR A DREAM. Fourth year BS Criminology students have their formation during their pinning and badging ceremony. | CLARISSE JOY PANTALITA
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Siocon Campus in U-week ‘23
OPINION
FEATURE
On the switch back to faceto-face
Our unsung hero
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11
Volume I, No. 1 • AY 2022-2023
2 NEWS
the STATE COLLEGIAN Del Rosario, Labsilica crowned Mr. and Ms. University 2022 ► MC BRIAN JACK BUHAWE
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CROWNED. John Shydel del Rosario and Queener Rose Labsilica are all smiles during the crowning of Mr. and Ms. University 2023. | VICTOR LABSILICA
Training readies JRMSUans to take leadership mantle ► CHRISTEL ANNE ALCOVEREZ & JAHARI AMSALI
T
he Supreme Student Government (SSG) conducted a one-day leadership training-seminar attended by 50 young leaders from several student organizations of Jose Rizal Memorial State University-Siocon Campus in the CIT Function Hall, February 17. During the training, the resource speaker Fernan Camacho, former SSG president of the campus and now a public school teacher emphasized the qualities and roles of a good leader. After the discussions, Camacho facilitated a series of activities on leadership. Selected SSG officers, TSC-SC publication staff, Muslim Students Association officers, and department officers attended the leadership training.
n a dazzling display of glamour and talent, the search for Mr. and Ms. University-Siocon Campus 2022 lit up the stage in the Siocon Cultural Exhibition Center, December 3. Amidst a sea of enthusiastic spectators, the titles were secured by the newly crowned Mr. and Ms. JRMSU-SC 2022, John Shydel Del Rosario from School of Criminal Justice Education (SoCJE)and Queener Rose Labsilica from the College of Education (CED) The first runner-up titles were bestowed upon Estello Mike Anao of CED and Jeah Philene Ginez of
SoCJE, while Jeremie Geografia of the College of Industrial Technology and Clarisse Joy Pantalita of CED took home the second runners-up. This electrifying event featured eight pairs of candidates, each vying for the highly coveted title, and they left no stone unturned to showcase their charisma and grace. Labsilica and Anao represented the campus in the Mr. and Ms. JRMSU during the University Chapter Week celebration on December 15 in Dapitan City. Del Rosario declined to represent the campus.
Acquaintance Party 2022
JRMSUans gather in black and white night ► JAHARI AMSALI fter two years of pandemic, stuA dents of Jose Rizal Memorial State University-Siocon Campus entered the
Siocon gymnasium in their black and white outfits during the Acquaintance Party 2022, October 14. Approximately 2,000 faculty, staff, and students joined the celebration which aims to build good relationship among the participants, Arnold Kitang, the SSG President who is also the spearhead of the event said. The guest speaker Atty. Dario Nalug said that the in-person gathering after the height of the pandemic provided an opportunity for the students to once
again rise, converge, and reunite. Talents of the different performers were also showcased through dances, musical serenades, and entertainment show. The search for Mr. and Ms. Acquaintance 2022 also showcased the best looks of each department. At the end of the competition, Emsar Ellih and Nadine Enca bagged the title for Mr. and Ms. Acquaintance 2022. At the same time, the College of Education won the Best in Table Presentation while the College of Computer Studies won the Best in Intermission Number.
GROOVE IT. Students from the School of Criminal Justice Education takes the stage during the Black and White Acquaintance Party | RADZHATA CAILO
Volume I, No. 1 • AY 2022-2023
NEWS 3
the STATE COLLEGIAN CHED grants compliance certificate to BS Agri ► JANETTE YBAÑEZ he Jose Rizal MeT morial State University - Siocon Campus
(JRMSU-SC) acquired a Certificate of Program Compliance (COPC) from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for the Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSA) program issued on August 8. The certificate served as proof that the BSA offered by the institution is in compliance with CHED regulations, standards, and guidelines. The COPC will be in effect for the academic year 2022-2023. The memorandum also states that the program filed compliance documentation that seeks to fulfill the minimum standards of CHED, which were then evaluated by the agency. Dr. Chona Torrefranca, the campus administrator of JRMSU-SC; Dr. Ana Liza Lopez, the system dean of School of Agriculture (SoA); Dr. Esperidion Sarita, the former associate dean of SoA; and Gualberto Guitao, the program chair, oversaw the awarding of certificate.
ONE BIG FIGHT. Siocon campus badminton team together with their coach Dr. Sergio Tabiliran unite as they aim for a spot in the MASTS Games. | MC BRIAN JACK BUHAWE
Siocon Campus shows grit in U-Week 2022 ► MC BRIAN JACK BUHAWE The journey to sporting glory is never an easy one, but Jose Rizal Memorial State University-Siocon Campus (JRMSU-SC) delegates showed remarkable determination as they left their mark on the University Week Celebration in Dapitan City, December 12-17. On the first day of competitions on December 13, Monica Maranga, a shotput-women athlete unleashed a winning 7.68-meter throw, just eight centimeters shy of Rhea Torino’s record who placed second. “Everyone is good. The difference is, it’s my time to shine and bring the gold back to our campus. Full of dedication, self-confidence and trusting God are the secrets of my triumph,” Maranga said. Siocon Campus also put a mark in the shotput-men event where Muhari Padila finished with a strong second. For the discus throw event, Maranga also secured the second place for women while Jose Jay Realiza took the third place for men.
“I believe we are starting strong, and we hope to haul more wins in the coming days,” Virginia Tomboc, the coach for athletics events said. The Siocon campus badminton team finished in third place, but their infectious energy and spirit won the admiration of the audience. “Let’s go, Siocon! A-zing, a-zing, a-zing,” Justine Marq Tabiliran, the badminton-men team captain cheered. The visual artists from Siocon Campus showcased their creativity in various competitions, with Benedick Abo-Abo securing second place in In-Situ Painting, and Darwisa Hassan finishing third in Charcoal Rendering. In the dance competition, Siocon Campus claimed third place in both street dance and contemporary dance. The excitement and enthusiasm reached its peak on the second day of competitions as Siocon Campus
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Volume I, No. 1 • AY 2022-2023
4 NEWS
the STATE COLLEGIAN Women’s month highlights gender equality, inclusivity ► EMSAR ELLIH
CELEBRATING DIVERSITY. Performers from JRMSU-SC present an ethnic inspired field demonstration that highlights the cultural diversity of Siocon. | SIOCON TOURISM FB PAGE
JRMSU-SC joins 86th Araw ng Siocon ► JAHARI AMSALI & MA. KRISTEL JANE HITALADA hile basking under the sun’s Mr. Saler Sabtiri emphasized on his W shining glory, Jose Rizal Memointroduction for the JRMSU-SC perrial State University – Siocon Campus formance. (JRMSU-SC) joined in commemorating the 86th Grand Founding Anniversary of Siocon at Julian Soriano Memorial Sports Complex, March 10. The JRMSU-SC Drum and Bugle Corps along with the University’s personnel took part in the grand parade that concluded in the jampacked sports complex which was immediately followed by the highlight of the event–the playground demonstrations. In the playground demonstration, JRMSUans showcased a performance which depicted the cultural diversity of Siocon, giving homage to the ethnic groups native to the municipality. “Napapanatili ang kariktan ng ating likas na yaman dahil sa ating pagkakaisa at pagtutulungan. Napapabilis ang ating pag-usad dahil sa suporta ng ating lokal na pamahalaan. Kaya naman, kaming Ilustrados ng JRMSU-SC ay nais na bigyang diin pa ang ating pagkakaisa at pag-asa sa pamamagitan ng pagtatanghal ng ating etnikong pagkakakilanlan,”
“Although we did not place in the contest, we are still beyond grateful to be able to offer our talent for Siocon. It is such a humbling experience to be able to perform on this grand event after a long halt due to the Covid-19 pandemic,” Chrestian Klaer Tandoy, a JRMSU-SC performer said after the announcement of winners. During the event, Mayor Ceasar Soriano also expressed the reason why everyone in town needs to celebrate Siocon’s 86th founding anniversary. “Human ang kalamidad, human ang krisis sa pandemya, lami kaayo tan-awon ang inyong mga nawong nga mi-smile niining buntaga. Malipayon, adunay panaghiusa, ug adunay dako kaayong paglaom ug kadasig nga akong nakita. Pureso, isip amahan sa lungsod, ako usab nadasig nga magplano ta para sa daghan nga mga programa ug kalambuan para sa lungsod sa Siocon,” Mayor Soriano said.
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Determinados...
police force. “Once determinado, maaabot ninyo talaga ang ambisyon niyong maging police… Be serious [in your] on-the-job training because what you’ll learn on [your] particular on-the-job training will be a good
foundation to become a better police officer,” PMAJ Tañola said. Bryan Jake Manera, the SCJE governor also shared about his struggles as a criminology student during his speech. He also emphasized that there is always
room for improvement. “Layo pa ta, pero layo na ta… Kahit na kulang sa pinansyal [ang] pamilya natin para sumuporta, love is enough. Dili ta kabalo sa kaugmaon. Okay ra magbinugoy. Normal ra na, pero hunahunaon
Jose Rizal Memorial State University (JRMSU-SC) emphasized gender equality and women empowerment as it joined the nation in celebrating the National Women’s Month on March 1-31. Revolving on the theme “WE for gender equality and inclusive society,” the Gender and Development (GAD) office initiated the essay writing and artisitic slogan making contests which was participated by female students of the campus. All Wednesdays of the month were declared #PurpleWednesday where teachers and students were encouraged to wear purple to signify support for women’s empowerment and gender equality. The female employees of JRMSU-SC were also recognized through the #WonderJuanas award. “This award is given to them to acknowledge their palpable contribution to the university,” Mr. Kent Jestoni Gabo, the campus GAD unit head said.
pud nato tanan atong himuon kay mag-effect pud ni sa atong future,” he expressed. After each intern received their new pins and badges, they then performed a silent drill.
Volume I, No. 1 • AY 2022-2023
NEWS 5
the STATE COLLEGIAN
FROM SIOCON TO UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT. Dr. Nelson Cabral, the President of the Zamboanga Peninsula Polytechnic State University who is also the OIC President of Jose Rizal Memorial State University delivers his commencement speech during the 23rd Commencement Exercises of Siocon Campus on June 13 at the Siocon Cultural and Exhibition Centre. During his message, he emphasized the ABC’s (Attitude, Behavior and Character) which he believes are key to reaching success. Dr. Cabral is a native of Siocon. | HASHIM MALA
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JRMSU-SC switches...
facemask, they should always sanitize their hands, and if they feel something, if they’re not feeling well, they immediately visit their doctor for consultation,” Mr. Xavier Jome Ando, one of the CED instructors
said. Moreover, the transition has brought with it a sense of excitement and optimism as students embrace the opportunity to attend faceto-face classes once again. While the past
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Siocon Campus shows grit...
athletes continued to shine. The athletics competition brought home numerous awards, including three golds, nine silvers, and nine bronzes. Contributing more to Siocon Campus’ success are Marvin Gumaga’s gold-winning run in the 400-meter dash, with a record time of 54.94 seconds; Arman Muarip’s silver on his 200-meter dash in 25.31 seconds, and bronze in 100-meter dash with a 12.06 seconds run; and Ritchelle Gumaga’s sprinting prowess to claimed two bronzes on her 100-meter dash with 14.85 seconds finish, and on her 200-meter dash in 30.81 seconds. The mix relay run team finished their
4x100-meter with 56.06 seconds and 4x400-meter relays with 58.31 seconds, winning them their bronze. In throwing eventmen’s category, Jose Jay Realiza made a 34.88-meter throw grabbing the silver medal, just 73 centimeters off Muhari Padila’s record who took bronze. Rhona Tanoco threw 23.11 meters to win silver, and Rhea Torino unleashed a 21.84-meter throw to take home bronze. In jumping event, Jonathan Fernandez claimed gold with a record of 6:0. Ritchele Gumaga in long jump – women took silver with a record of 4:15.
two years were marked by modular learning and remote interactions, the return to the physical campus has ignited a renewed enthusiasm for education. “Exciting because face-to-face is back
In chess-women team garnered total points of 10 that made them placed second. Meanwhile, the Siocon arnis team hauled five golds, three silvers, and 2 bronzes. Remulos Realiza in bantam weight claimed gold after beating Dipolog. Godfrey Eribal in feather weight and Jimuel Raymond Antopina in welter weight both took silver. Emman Rivera won gold in solo baston anyo and silver in espada y daga. The three powerful ladies of Siocon arnis team also collected awards. Jamaica Mendoza took gold in pin weight
again after almost two years of pandemic. The ability to engage directly with instructors and fellow students is invaluable,” Sherdalyn De Guzman, a BS Criminology expressed.
and bronze in espada y daga category. Also, Normida Abdulmin claimed gold in feather weight and bronze in female solo baston anyo category while Jinky Andong claimed gold in welter weight category. “Motivation, and to bring pride in our campus is our goal,” Andong said. Furthermore, in literary competition, Siocon campus kept up with the other campuses in some categories. In third place are Rhea Jane Salacao in Masining na Pagkukuwento, Rinie Tucatac in Dagliang Talumpati and Christel Anne Alcoverez in Essay Writing.
Volume I, No. 1 • AY 2022-2023
6 OPINION
the STATE COLLEGIAN
EDITORIAL
Mission successfully failed? How JRMSU is handling the shift to f2f
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veryone was stressed during the height of the pandemic. Parents losing livelihoods, students lacking the materials needed for online and modular classes and the struggle of self-tutelage. Now after almost two years of modular learning, JRMSU finally resumed face-to-face classes on August 15, 2022. Although we are still adjusting to the so-called ‘new normal’, students and instructors alike are beyond enthusiastic about the shift. But even with all the enthusiasm, we cannot ignore the devastating impact of the pandemic towards the education of the JRMSU students. The university’s mission of “providing highly advanced professionals” might be futile if the issue at hand won’t be handled delicately by the campus. The learning gap created by the COVID-19 is no joke. In such that poor-performing, marginalized and even the gifted ones are now struggling to keep up, hoping to have a GPA not exceeding 2.4.
SC
“I’m stressed. I’m not prepared sa pag face-to-face,” Brylle Acompañado, a first year criminology student confessed. “I have social anxiety. It’s hard when you’re used to just staying at home and not socializing in person. Sometimes, I experience anxiety attacks,” he added. His statement was the same with the other students we interviewed, in which they have confessed to having a sudden social anxiety, addiction to mobile games, and having constant battles with depression. With these things occurring, we can say that it’s truly quite a year in Jose Rizal Memorial State University. While college life is different, instructors should also try to empathize with the students. “Scaffold them kung baga,” as said by Ma’am Lourilli De Guzman, an instructor under the School of Criminal Justice Education, “slowly adjust the students to the sudden shift. From pandemic and online
the STATE COLLEGIAN SIOCON CAMPUS Volume I, No. 1 • AY 2022-2023
MC BRIAN JACK BUHAWE Editor-in-Chief
JAHARI AMSALI Opinion Editor
QUEENER ROSE LABSILICA Associate Editor-in-Chief
ELIZABETH PURISIMA Feature Editor
CHRISTEL ANNE ALCOVEREZ Managing Editor
RADZHATA CAILO Graphic Artist
JANETTE YBAÑEZ News Editor
BENEDICK ABO-ABO Contributing Cartoonist
classes. Dili sila ibigla.” Nevertheless, despite distressful circumstances, the shift to face-to-face classes is still a breath of fresh air to some students. “I’m enjoying being able to attend face to face classes again,” Angel Ugdol, another first year criminology student, said during her interview. “As a somewhat extroverted person, syempre I literally live through socializing, and kase mas naiintindihan ko yung lessons if dinidiscuss talaga sya.” With the pandemic still raging and us constantly being mindful and adjusting to the implemented health protocols, everyone is stressed. To sum it all, life is difficult right now and so we should learn how to better sympathize through helping each other, instructors and students alike, because one way or another we are all affected by the pandemic.
EDITORIAL BOARD MASLAN PAWA, SHAIMA TAHIRULLA, MARK JOSE REYES, MECHAELA LAHABA, MA. KRISTEL JANE HITALADA Reporters KHADIJA CAILO, TADZMALYN AJIJUL, FRANZ LAIGH LINGGALA Proofreaders
Mr. JUNRY O. VILLARBA (ADSAS), Dr. CHONA F. TORREFRANCA (Campus Administrator) Consultants
VICTOR LABSILICA, EMSAR ELLIH, EDGAR ARANETA, CLARISSE JOY PANTALITA, HASHIM MALA Photojournalists KENT JESTONI GABO Technical Adviser LILAMAE BARCELO Assistant Technical Adviser fb.com/ thestatecollegian.siocon thestatecollegian.siocon@gmail.com
Volume I, No. 1 • AY 2022-2023
the STATE COLLEGIAN
OPINION 7
ILLUSTRAdose
journaLESS the quiet corners of our campus, where Ianthe stories of students unfold, there exists pain hidden behind every word we write
MC BRIAN JACK BUHAWE BSED-Mathematics
and every image we capture. As a campus journalist, I share with you a tale of tears, a tale that often goes unnoticed. As a student journalist, I’ve felt the sting of invisibility. In fact, sometimes during campus events, we fade into the background, our presence unacknowledged. We don’t yearn for the spotlight, just the understanding that we too are part of this campus, that our stories matter. I recall a time as a photojournalist, covering events, where I was unjustly labeled as biased. It wasn’t because of personal preference; it was because other departments failed to coordinate with us. Yes, it’s our duty to seek news events. But we can’t be everything everywhere all at once, and we, too, have academic priorities. We’re students, and our dedication to journalism doesn’t diminish our responsibilities as learners. As I continue to reminisce about the struggles of being a campus journalist, I can’t help but recall a disheartening encounter with one of the deans. In a moment of vulnerability, I shared our challenges and frustrations with him, hoping for guidance and support. To my astonishment, his response was insensitive, “If you can’t handle it, then quit.” It stung, and I couldn’t help but wonder, is it acceptable to dismiss our concerns in such a manner? I believe that sharing our experiences would lead to understanding and perhaps solutions, but it seemed to me that he failed to grasp the depth of our dedication. His
words hurt, but we press on. Also, the support we receive from the school is often insufficient. I, as an Editor-in-Chief have used my own allowance to purchase Atech vouchers just to ensure the publication runs smoothly. Sometimes it meant sacrificing my own meals, but I did it because I love being a journalist. It’s not just a duty; it’s a passion. Most of the time, we’re often dismissed as mere photographers, seen as obligated to capture pictures, and we’re expected to produce only “good” shots. This is why I sometimes hesitate to post candid shots with action; I am criticized and occasionally scolded for our work and told to delete those images. Furthermore, we don’t enjoy the freedom of speech that should be a journalist’s birthright. We’re sometimes restricted from publishing critical articles, for fear of tarnishing the campus’ image. How can the school leaders address issues they’re unaware of, or those no one dares to criticize? As I look at other campuses, my jealousy simmers where journalists receive the recognition, financial support, and respect they deserve. We too long for those tears of joy. To wrap it up, I want to say that we are journalists, not mere photographers. Our struggles and aspirations deserve to be acknowledged. We don’t seek the spotlight, but we do seek the respect and support that can make our journey as campus journalists a little less arduous. It’s time for our voices to be heard, and our stories to be recognized.
ZOOMING IN
Facilities, wun?
O
ELIZABETH PURISIMA BSED-English
ur campus provides us students with opportunities to deepen our understanding of the fields we chose toward academic achievement. Our instructors and professors do their best to impart the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for us to flourish in the real world. However, it is not easy to fulfill such if we don’t have enough facilities provided. This is evident with the limited classrooms we have. We have classes conducted in the student lounge, covered court, and canteen which were not built for such purpose. Having our classes in these places is not conducive to learning at all because we are surrounded by unseen enemies, including the weather, students loitering, and inaudibility of the class discussions due to the open space. The planning officer of the campus Engr. Arnold Tabiliran points the finger at the unprecedented rapid enrolment growth of the school as one of the reasons why we lack classrooms. “Due to the free tuition for state universities, the enrollment population for all programs increases every year, and the current facilities can no longer accommodate more
students than what we have today,” Engr. Tabiliran said. A new technology building is almost ready for use, but it cannot still be occupied due to some technical works that need to be addressed, Engr. Tabiliran revealed. Nonetheless, it is commendable that the school has already completed construction of comfort rooms with separate spaces for men, women and PWDs strategically located all throughout the campus. Speaking of the canteen, I believe it is one of the most essential facilities in school. Unfortunately, after the pandemic, the canteen is nowhere to be seen, forcing us students to go out from the campus to buy food and school supplies. The income generating project coordinator Mr. Gualberto Guitao said that the canteen is not yet operational since the billing for the canteen is still ongoing. He also stated that the canteen will be managed by a non-employee of the university. We, the students hope that these deficiencies be addressed sooner rather than later so that we may claim that we have achieved our mission to deliver effective and efficient services.
8 OPINION
Volume I, No. 1 • AY 2022-2023
the STATE COLLEGIAN
WORTH THE WORD
Loud library
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CHRISTEL ANN ALCOVEREZ BS-Criminology
owadays, the students of JRMSU-SC seem to have forgotten the true essence of the school library. Instead of going there to further their academic prowess and self-indulge in a peaceful and quiet study session, they are now somewhat using it as their personal hang-out space, gossiping area, internet cafe, and sometimes eating food there like they are in a cafeteria. As a person who has high regard for establishments such as the library, I am truly disappointed in how my fellow students have the guts to disrespect it and so carelessly too at that. This issue of disobedience is the common cause of disdain to the minority of the students who want to use the library for its proper purpose: a gathering space for individuals who wants to engage in a personal and peaceful pursuit on academics. One of my batchmates, Jeremy Araña, a first year BS Criminology student who is soon to be entering his second year after finishing this semester, expresses his concern over this matter. In his own words he said, “I like the staff there but I think they should be stricter, students use the place as a gossiping area. It is quite disconcerting.” The library, to me, is a place of nerd-like utopia. It is where private reflection and intellectual introspection occurs. When one enters
it, one should keep in mind the discipline, remember the ethics of entering the place and respect it by following one simple rule: keeping silent. I think everyone had seen the large sign ‘Please Keep Silent’ being displayed all over the walls of the place but despite its obviousness, it was still ignored. Maybe that was the reason the staff took it down since nobody is following the rule anymore. I guess two library staff wasn’t enough in controlling the might of these students. Despite doing their best on reminding the value of the place, it is still proven fruitless with how students resume their murmurings once the staff is busy or away on some important matters. Soon, we will be expected to partake in society as active, dignified, and self-disciplined members. How can we become that when we find difficulty in obeying such a simple rule as keeping quiet? This issue is so concerning especially since freshmen are about to enter this campus. As their seniors, we have to be the ones standing up as their role models. It would be such an embarrassment to pass down a legacy that promotes insubordination among our juniors. As their seniors we should be the first ones to take initiative in illustrating proper respect towards establishment such as the library.
CAMPUS CHITCHAT
Any form
T
QUEENER ROSE LABSILICA BSED-Filipino
he Jose Rizal Memorial State University-Siocon Campus (JRMSU-SC) strictly implements a policy regarding the proper use of school uniforms. In fact, it was written in the JRMSU Student Handbook 2020 Edition, the specification of the system uniform for college students, along with the attached photos of improper attire inside the school premises. Unfortunately, despite the clear instructions and comprehensive guidelines, I have seen a lot of students still fail to abide with the implemented policy. Although the university adheres to the essence of respecting rights and freedom, it is not a ground where liberated clothing style is allowed. Tattered ripped-jeans, high-waisted paired with a revealing top, and fitted miniskirt. These are just some of the common clothing styles often preferred by most students to wear inside the school. The school is characterized as a fundamental institution that hones self-discipline, but it seems like the students reflect a contrasting value: indiscipline individuals. I’m afraid that this issue may possibly uproot a domino effect, where other students might be also encouraged to disobey as there are some who freely neglects these rules. One of the school security guard, Mr. Jose Pabilona expressed his dismay in the aforementioned problem.
“Students wear their uniforms upon entering the school premises, but I have observed that most of them change their clothes once they are already inside the campus. The guts of the students to disobey made the implemented rules become useless,” Mr. Pabilona expressed. I strongly believe that wearing of school uniforms signifies the importance of uniformity. Hence, it lessens the possible drawbacks of discrimination among students. Given the everyday situation, placing a large board encompassing the prohibited improper attire in the school is truly no use at all. Students aren’t blind to see, but they still chose to neglect it. The security guards and the faculty of the school ensure that they are doing their utmost effort in reminding the students regarding the implemented policy, but it remains as an endless cycle of disobedience for the hardheaded students. Self-discipline nurtures an elevated behavior; it is the foundation of dignity and an uttermost necessity towards succession. Students, particularly in higher educational institutions must portray a good conduct in order to stand as a role model for the young ones. It is indeed true that everyone has the right and freedom to do what they want, but what is the importance of implementing a policy if no one abides it?
Volume I, No. 1 • AY 2022-2023
the STATE COLLEGIAN
OPINION 9
TSC INBOX “For the school of Hospitality Management, our main problem is the proper wearing of school uniforms. The classes have officially commenced, but there are still a lot of students who do not have a uniform. One of their common reasons is the lack of tailor shop in Siocon. Even though we consider this as a valid reason, somehow the consideration that the faculty gave already reached its peak.”
“Most of my fellow students are not cooperating every time there is a conducted school activity, specifically on events that are not inclined within their own interest. There is no unity nor cooperation.” Rosendo Prieto College of Computing Studies
Ed Kristian Centino School of Hospitality Management
“I think one of our common problems is the giving of contribution or fees. Since the university implemented the no collection policy, students under the School of Midwifery adheres that they should not give any amount of funds in terms of participating in school activities.”
“Our primary concern is the lack of facilities, specifically a convenient room that we can utilize in order to have a proper class discussion. The population of criminology students is rapidly growing, I hope that this problem will be address as soon as possible because the adversities it causes gradually affects our learning experience.” John Michael Eribal School of Criminal Justice Education
Cassandryle Tabo-tabo School of Midwifery
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“My only concern about CED is that we have to be united. With this unity we could have an amazing department where negativity could not grow and foster. We need to cultivate healthy competition. Whenever there are competitions, everyone should participate. We have to show what CED has because we are future superheroes trained by superheroes.” Chrestian Klaer Tandoy College of Education
Volume I, No. 1 • AY 2022-2023
the STATE COLLEGIAN 10 FEATURE Edified by Sir Eddie: Campus registrar records life after retirement ► ELIZABETH PURISIMA It is the time where rest begins and work ends. The Jose Rizal Memorial State University - Siocon Campus (JRMSU-SC) celebrated the retirement of its campus registrar, Sir Eddie Villa Obnimaga. With an impressive 17-year service which concluded on October 21, 2022, his inspiring presence in the campus especially as the registrar has left a lasting legacy in our school life. Early on, he pulled himself out of poverty through education to provide a comfortable life to his family. “Remember that education can solve poverty,” he asserted. His background as a teacher in building constructions before JRMSU-SC came into being made him a stalwart as the physical plant in charge. In his own words, working with the school’s records and plans needs both “honesty and heart”. These virtues he brought with him all throughout especially when innovations were introduced to streamline their workflow, specifically the Higher Education Management Information System (HEMIS). When HEMIS was introduced,
he was a struggling digital immigrant who has little knowledge on the know-hows of computing. But because of his dedication for his work, he shouldered on and did his best to learn the new system. During this time, he learned that to be excellent in what we do, we cannot do it alone. He pooled human resources especially from other campuses to help him grapple with these innovations. When asked what his secret is for keeping his office well-oiled, he revealed that the key is in the workforce. “You must have trust and confidence in your subordinates because without them, the office will be crippled,” he said. Known as reserved yet assertive, Sir Eddie plans to spend his retirement with his family and be in his best health as much as possible so that he can still enjoy a long and fulfilling life. He has long bade adieu to smoking and alcohol to achieve this goal. His daughter Miss Elvie Joy Obnimaga who is a part-time in-
structor of the campus also stated that her father is a devoted leader in their church. “My father is a very supportive and loving husband to our mother, and a sweet father to us. He worked hard to sustain our needs. He doesn’t want to waste time, because for him, time is gold. He is a leader, he always looked for opportunities to serve. We were disciplined, but never felt motivated by anger, only love,” she added. His story of dedication, perseverance and kindness truly edifies our young minds in hopes that we also possess the gentleness and assertiveness that are uniquely Sir Eddie.
ONE FOR THE BOOKS. Mr. Eddie Obnimaga poses with his wife and children during his retirement program. | ELVIE JOY OBNIMAGA
Volume I, No. 1 • AY 2022-2023
FEATURE 11
the STATE COLLEGIAN
DEDICATED SERVICE. Mr. Daniel Micubo receives recognition for his 35 years of unwavering service to the institution on December 2021. | DANILO MICUBO
Our unsung hero ► QUEENER ROSE LABSILICA The loud jingling of keys amidst the deafening silence in the hallway signifies a new day has arisen for him. For the past thirty-six years, he spent half of his life serving the university and ensuring the safety of students. For some people, Sir Daniel Micubo is a mere security guard who possesses bold responsibilities inside the school premises. Yet, beneath the naked ebony orbs of the Illustrados, he is the epitome of an unsung hero. The selflessness, dedication, and courage he embodies made him an exceptional employee of JRMSU-SC. “If you are a coward, this job is not for you. Because it takes more than bravery to fulfill the obligation of a security guard,” he proudly said. Before the beam of sunrise touches the ground, Sir Micubo would begin to roam around the
campus, ensuring that no potential danger can harm the premises. Until the sun sets on the vast horizon, he firmly stands on the university’s entrance gate, sweetly greeting a bunch of students coming in and out. There was no hint of tiredness on his face, but behind that façade lies the greatest sacrifice of a hardworking father. Despite their financial instability, he was able to send his two children in a prestigious university. “What I truly love about our father is he was never embarrassed of his job description. Although sometimes his salary is not enough to sustain our needs, it didn’t become a hindrance to achieve our own dreams,” Ms. Rhea Micubo, her daughter, stated Ms. Rhea is now a licensed professional teacher teaching in
Julian Soriano Memorial Comprehensive High School. After thirty-six years in the service, Mr. Micubo bade his farewell to the university which he considered as his second home, where the morning laughs of students serve as a rhythm of hope in his ears and the smiles of the faculty reflect their good camaraderie. “This retirement is not a goodbye; my heart is deeply embedded in this university. I will never forget my journey as a security guard.” The untold story of sir Micubo reveals a heroic deed of an unsung hero, whereas he sacrifices his own comfort for the sake of other people. The selflessness he portrayed showed us that if we only work with dignity and dedication, no job is too small and no hardship is too big.
Volume I, No. 1 • August-December 2022
the STATE COLLEGIAN
CAMPUS LIFE
CAPTURED