September 2022-February 2023 Tabloid

THE GREEN PARADOX

CHMSU HOLDS INVESTITURE CEREMONY, NAMES FIRST UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT

By Roniel H. Capanas

Norberto “Nomer” P. Mangulabnan, Ph.D., president of the previous CHMSC, was appointed as the first University President of Carlos Hilado Memorial State University in his investiture ceremony held at the CHMSU- Talisay Main Campus multi-purpose gym, September 2, 2022.

“This is a proud moment for us all, a day of celebration for the institution, and to say that we at CHMSU are thrilled to see you all is an understatement,” Rosalinda S.

Tuvilla, Vice President for Administration and Finance expressed in her welcome remarks and acknowledgment of guests.

Before instituting the new university president, a posthumous awarding of Plaque of Appreciation was given for the late CHMSC President, Renato M. Sorolla, received by his brother and his wife.

Dr. Jay B. Estrellas, Vice President of Academic Affairs, read a brief biography of Mangulabnan.

Led by Dr. Marita R. Canapi, the Chair of the Board of Regents and Commission on Higher Education

(CHED) Commissioner, Mangulabnan was officially appointed as the first President of Carlos Hilado Memorial State University.

The investiture of authority and presentation of symbols of the office of the President of CHMSU were witnessed, headed by Canapi and assisted by the CHED Regional Director of Region VI, Raul C. Alvarez, Jr., EdD.

Canapi also administered the oath of office, followed by the oath signing of the University President.

“I draw my strength and inspiration

Cafino Brings Pride to CHMSU, Places 10th in CE Exam

from the great men and women of CHMSU, the university officials, the faculty and personnel, the students, and other partners, in uniting all efforts in bringing the university to greater heights,”

Mangulabnan emphasized in his message as the official first President of CHMSU.

Felipe Antonio Remollo, Mayor of Dumaguete, and Dr. Tirso A. Ronquillo, President of Batangas State University, delivered their congratulatory messages to the newly announced President. The program ended with the singing of the new university hymn.

20 MORE SECONDS

By Roniel H. Capanas

“Never think of the result, but focus on the process.”

These words echoed inside the Function Hall, Green Building of Carlos Hilado Memorial State University as Jefferson Y. Cafino delivered his testimony in the Thanksgiving Prayer Rally, December 2, after ranking 10th in the November Civil Engineering Licensure Examination 2022.

Alongside 49 fellow Civil Engineering examination passers of the institution, they made

another history, as they once again put the university’s name in the top performing school nationwide, placing 4th with an 86.21% rating. For Cafino, “Civil Engineering program requires diligence and discipline.” He also advised the aspiring civil engineers of CHMSU who were watching both in-person and online, via Facebook Live, that in CE “hindi gid ya pwede magpa-tawhay.”

He also mentioned in his message during the prayer rally why CHMSU is the best CE school in the province — he

noticed that the mentors care for each student.

Cafino also shared that his parents wanted him to become a doctor, but he insisted on studying Civil Engineering in the university.

At the near end of his message, the topnotcher reiterated “hindi ka gid ma-discourage sa failure.”

Meanwhile, the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) announced this year’s Civil Engineering Licensure Exam results, which showed a 39.34% passing rate, with 8,029 out of 20,407 aced the 2-day exam.

TO LOSE IS TO WIN

Five campus journ of TPTalisay joins COPRE 2022

By Clifford L. Legaspi

ILOILO CITY Advancing the pursuit of greater Journalism, five student journalists of The Technopacer – Talisay joined the College Press Conference and Awards (COPRE) hosted by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) – Region VI Western Visayas held at Grand Xing Imperial Hotel, Iloilo City, December 21.

“Do not ever forget to love your country. Use your talent and skills in writing in pushing the conveyance of proper messaging to proper use,” emphasized by Ramon Lee Cualoping III, Undersecretary and PIA director-general.

Meanwhile, Stephane Ann Rose Panagane, Feature Editor and one of the graduating staff, raised the school

publication’s banner after successfully clinching the 3rd place in Feature Writing (English Category).

Other attendees and their on-thespot contest categories include; Menzie Joy Ducado and Roniel Capanas –Photojournalism (English and Filipino), Clifford Legaspi – Sports Writing (English), and Jane Soberano – Feature Writing (English).

COPRE is in its 46th year and the longest running journalism contest in the whole region, underscored this year’s theme “Campus Journalism rising above and beyond the pandemic.”

This conference and awards was partaken by roughly 500 college campus journalists from 55 different school paper publications across the Western Visayas region.

MR. TEEN MASSKARA

CHMSUAN ramps Bacolod Stage, hail as Mr. Teen Masskara 2022

By Roberta Leigh C. Moreno

BACOLOD, NEGROS

OCCIDENTAL — Glen Yvan

Lambot, a 19-year-old 1styear BSCE student of CHMSU – Talisay Campus, was crowned Mr. Teen Masskara 2022 during the coronation night of the Mr. And Ms. Teen Masskara 2022 held at Bacolod City College Activity Center, October 15, 2022.

“IBALIK ANG YUHUM

SANG MGA PAMATAN-ON!”

These quoted words of the Mr. And Ms. Teen Masskara 2022 organization echoed the sentiments of the 10 pairs of candidates as they sashayed their way into the finals.

“It was surreal, being with the organization and my [fellow] candidates for more than two months. We were able to build more than just friendship — we were family. The camaraderie we have established will never fade,” Yvan Lambot said in a virtual interview with The Technopacer – Talisay.

“Actually, I had no intention of joining Mr. And Ms. Teen Masskara because we were financially unstable. But when someone reached out to me and said they would handle everything, I took the risk. I was highly motivated because the pageant’s cause was about ‘Youth Empowerment.’”

“Upon winning the crown, everything didn’t immediately sink in for me. Everything went smoothly, and I felt no pressure. I only felt grateful to be given the chance to perform on stage and advocate positive change.”

“As a CHMSUan, all I can say is that each one of us has a sovereign right to empower and promote positively towards our peers. Push yourself with dedication and confidence. Remember your cause and influence everybody through actions not words.,” he added.

The coronation night was hosted by Adrian Prietos –GMA One Western Visayas’ News Anchor.

Blue is Royal

— Blue Alphas’ Representatives win Mr. and Ms. Intramurals 2022 Crown

By Renante Sugar T. Bawa-an

Izhekiel Larida and Ednalyn Garcia, both from Unit 1 (Blue Alphas), have together secured their crowning moment during the 2022 search for Mr. and Ms. Intramurals, held December 6 at the University Gym.

The two royals from the dominant pack of blue wolves are both 3rd-year CHMSU students, under the College of Education, or, on this occasion, Unit 1. Larida is taking up Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Science, while Garcia is a student of Bachelor of Physical Education (BPED) program.

Larida first dominated the stage and amused the judges with his distinct alpha-male character during the talent night, held on December 5, where he performed his witty “I don’t wanna miss a TANG” entry. He was awarded “Best in Talent” during the coronation, alongside other awards like “Best in Production” and “Mr.

SAS Award.”

Garcia, on one hand, rocked the stage when she howled her winning answer during the Q and A portion through a picture analysis format. Faced with a certain photo, she made an interpretation correlating the same with the issue of terrorism, how the youth are perceived as such, and eventually encouraged the students to arm themselves with bravery.

During the event, she received Print-on Choice and Balai Amare Sponsor Awards. Additionally, Garcia shared with Larida other awards such as the Best in Formal Wear and the People’s Choice Award.

Through a Facebook post dated Dec. 9, three days after he won the pageant, Larida told the virtual public that “it was a night of manifestation…the power of belief [was] real. The universe [would] always find a way to give you what is for you…,” remembering he was then unqualified for screening during his first attempt as a first year in the

CHMSUans RETHINKS TOURISM, HM DIRECTS SKILL SHOW

university. Meanwhile, Garcia had this to say in an exclusive interview with Technopacer-Talisay: “I still could not find the perfect term to describe the feeling after being crowned as Ms. Intramurals 2022.”

“Being a university student queen is a great platform which I presume would open doors of opportunities for me to continue what I have started for the benefit of all CHMSUans.,” she added, to say for youth empowerment and other causes she has been advocating even before the pageant.

By Clifford L. Legaspi

As the province advances to a greater feat of tourism, Carlos Hilado Memorial State University took the honor of leading the HM and Tourism Skills Show, propelled by the Negros Occidental Tourism Division for the 22nd Provincial Tourism Week, at the Activity Area, Ayala Malls Capitol Central, Bacolod City,

Monday, September 19.

“Rethinking Tourism,” theme for the week-long festivity, September 16 –23, underscoring Tourism, Innovation, Education, and the planet towards a more sustainable way of Rethinking Tourism.

Attendant Showmanship, Fruit Carving, Human Skirting Demonstration, and an Exit Performance that featured “Sa Negros may Tubo kag Madamo pa.”

Furthermore,the activities for the upcoming days was posted on the Negros Occidental Tourism Division’s official Facebook page, partaken by the 19 municipalities and 12 cities of the province.

The school hour activity was divided and materialized into diverse segments, incorporating: Tour Guiding, Flambé, Flair tending, Flight

CHMSUyanihan brings relief to families and children

The result concluded as Earl Arnulf Jaud of Unit 4 and Leah Cim Biatin of Unit 3, 1st runners-up; Irish Klent Villando of Unit 1 and Johannah Santiago of Unit 4, 2nd runners-up; Kurt Diaz Olat and Christine Goza, both from Unit 3, as 3rd runners-up; and Nikolai Amador of Unit 4 with Desiree Capellan of Unit 1, 4th runners-up. shared in a short message that leadership is about showing up. He also added that the institution showed its immediate willingness to bring relief when the conflict rose last week.

HIMAMAYLAN, NEGROS

OCCIDENTAL - More than 30 student volunteers from various organizations and the Office of External Affairs participated in the food pack distribution to aid the affected families in the

In the said food aid caravan, the school bus delivered 349 food packs, 536 bottles of drinking water, 50 loaves, 30 water containers, and 34 mixed toys for children at the six identified evacuation sites of Brgys. Caradio-an, Saraet, and Cabadiangan of Himamaylan and Brgy. Payao of Binalbagan.

To uplift the spirits of the affected communities, student volunteers filled the sites with fun through festive games for the children and adults as a form of psychosocial support.

By Bianca C. Montilla

ongoing firefight between the military and rebels, October 13, 2022.

CHMSUyanihan team paid a courtesy call with Mayor Raymund Tongson, Vice Mayor Justin Silos Gatuslao, and SPM Janet Villafranca at the Himamaylan People’s Hall where Gatuslao

PHOTO I DigitEyez

Unit 1-Blue Alphas Seize Back-toback Champ Title for Cultural Tilt

By Glylia May M. Montevirgen

Conquering prime on last year’s Intramurals Cultural Events, the Unit 1- Blue Alphas from the College of Education successfully stood their grounds, seizing back-to-back wins for the aforementioned tilt during this year’s Intramurals Fest, held at CHMSU-Talisay Campus, December 5-7, 2022.

The Blue Alphas dominated the individual literary (English and Filipino) and visual events earning the most top spot as Pauline Isabelle Guanzon secured her crown in the Extemporaneous Speaking, Jethro Hermano in Masining na Pagkukuwento, Aira Joy Legaspi in Pagsulat ng Sanaysay, Alyssa Descutido in Pencil Rendering, and Arvin Bayog for On-the-Spot Poster Making.

In the team category, the Blue Alphas also snatched

the title for Radio Drama and Short Sweet Play in Performing Arts, and Verse Choir in Literary Event. While in Dance events, the said Unit got the title for the Contemporary Dance and Street Dance Competition, respectively.

However, the Blue Alphas failed to conquer the first place titles and was outranked by the Unit IV Orange Tigers in the Musical events; Vocal Solo and Duet, Kundiman, Acoustic Band, Instrumental Solo, and Choral Singing Competition and in Folk Dance Competition.

Meanwhile, the coveted title of the Mr. and Miss Intramurals ‘22 was triumphantly nabbed by the Blue Alphas as Izhekiel Larida and Ednalyn Garcia took home the crown of the Pageantry.

Following the back-toback win of Unit 1, Governor Tara Mae Walker said this in

an exclusive interview in The Techonpacer-Talisay,

“It was an honour that I honestly cannot describe. The pressure, expectations, and nerves were real and laid on thick. The moment I heard the news that Unit 1 came out on top, all I could think about was all the hard work Miss Gee and the council had put in, as well as the blood, sweat, tears, and dedication from the participants. You could see everyone give their all in their respective events over the course of the three days and it all truly paid off.”

“Thank you. Thank you for everything you’ve done for the College. This win has always been yours, you worked so hard and gave your everything in order for our Unit to come out on top.” She added.

The 1st runner up for the Cultural Tilt was Unit-4 as, and Unit 3 and 2 as 2nd and 3d runners up, respectively.

ACIP VIS TAKES IN NEW STUDENT LEADERS

By Carah Mae C. Blanca

As Dr. Abasalita Teves, ACIP Visayas Ambassador, mentioned to be “next generation’s nation builders,” the American Concrete Institute Philippines welcomed its new set of officers and student members in the Visayas Student Chapter in the oath-taking ceremony held via Zoom, September 24.

Hosted by Russell

Benignos from Carlos Hilado Memorial State University and Nirabelle Hongcuay from Cebu Institute of Technology – University, the program was also attended by students from Negros Oriental State University and Silliman University.

Moreover, in Engr. Froilan Martillano’s inspirational speech, president of ACI Philippines, he reminded the participants to study and reach greater

SDG Expo features Org and Clubs Advocacies

3-A.

Club SDG advocacy exhibits, the presentation of customized club merchandise and products, and a coffee shop were some of yesterday’s highlighted elements in exploring the United Nations’ SDGs and student advocacy.

heights, endure the pain of failure to earn the courage to do better; and challenged CHMSU to be awarded the Excellent Student Chapter Award like the other universities.

The abovementioned event was capped with a quick question-and-answer by Mrs. Ellen Chua, ACI International Advisory Committee, and a photo-op segment.

On ASEAN Battle of the Brains, CAS claims Victory

By

Center for External Affairs (CEA) in collaboration with the University Student Government (USG), Office of Student Affairs, and other school clubs and organizations launched this year’s SDG (Sustainable Development Goals) Café and Expo at the Global Learning Café at the Dining Hall (Ground Floor), CHMSU - Talisay, Wednesday, November 2.

“We continue to promote, and we continue to try our best to witness the SDGs in our simple ways as students and mentors, madamo gid nga salamat,” quoted Jay B.

Estrellas, EdD and VicePresident for Academic Affairs.

“Keep on track with the SDGs,” was the theme of the affair, which was enjoined by several guilds and student orgs, namely: the GOES Youth Movement, Social Science Guild, Psychological Society, Student Society of PE Majors, SPED, 3 Zero Club, GenEd Dynasty, Filipino Patriot, Wordsmiths, and the USG.

“My biggest takeaway from this event is knowing about SDG, kung ano ang importance nila kag kung paano namon ma apply as a student para kami maka help man improve,” said Ysabelle Torado, BEED

“Gaan importance ang life tadi sa Earth kag especially ang environment, ka drastic na sang change nga gaka experience ta and grabe man ang cause sa aton, dapat mabulig man ta para ma achieve ang goals sang SDG,” said Jezreel Hope Claver, SocSci 4-B.

Furthermore, stimulating CHMSU students’ engagement, the organizers, during the raffle draw portion, awarded Globe Prepaid Wifis to five students who accomplished the Expo’s task.

“Thank you so much for our clubs and accredited organizations that participated with us this afternoon. [W]e are looking forward to more activities with you all,” said Sherwin Macahilig who graced the event.

LegACI 2022 marks 3rd Founding Anniversary with CHMSU – Talisay Student Chapter

Amid all the tasks faced by the institution, the Social Science Guild of Carlos Hilado Memorial State University successfully administered the ASEAN Battle of the Brains Competition among the colleges of the four campuses, with the theme: ASEAN Politics, Culture, and History, held at the University Gymnasium, September 13.

“[L]adies and gentlemen, I guarantee that your next few hours [will] be [more] delightful than [ever.] I hope this event will enable us to enjoy excellence and share experiences with one another that you can all take back with us.” May Peracullo,

adviser of the Social Science Guild of the university, said in her welcome remarks.

Ms. Janet Espinosa, head of the Office of Student Affairs also delivered her message in the said program, highlighting her congratulations and good luck to the participants who did the thorough screening.

As the battle of the wits and grits started, the College of Arts and Sciences dominated the easy and difficult round, whereas, the College of Computer Studies from Alijis Campus acquired the spot in the average round.

However, as the scores were tallied, CAS and the CCS tied, resulting in a clincher round where CAS participants: Larrylyn M. Jumayao and Christal Jeinz

G. Ledesma showed their determination to snatch the title and were declared winners.

Angel Albarico and Jamie Omban from the College of Computer Studies of Alijis Campus were proclaimed 1st runners-up, while Irene Allana Polyn D. Morales and Alexander Jacob P. Cortez of the College of Education from Talisay Campus secured the 2nd runner-up spot.

Among the colleges that also joined the event were the College of Criminal Justice from Binalbagan Campus, College of Business Management and Accountancy from Fortune-Towne, and College of Engineering and Industrial Technology from Talisay.

On its 3rd year anniversary, the American Concrete Institute Philippines Carlos Hilado Memorial State University – Talisay Student Chapter (ACIP CHMSU-T SC) has prepared various competitions to celebrate the momentous event, which was held from December 10–17, 2022.

This week-long celebration focused on the passing torch of innovation, research, and

concrete development from one community to the next, creating a hub of information and fellowship along with a series of Webinars about the engineering community and various activities that enhanced the skills and strengthened bonds of the engineering students coming from different year levels.

One of the said events was the LegACI 2022: Concrete Quiz Bowl where Junel L. Tayo won first place, followed by James J. Guardiario and

Joe-mig B. Ramos was the second and third place, respectively, held last December 13.

Meanwhile,six participating teams from the Civil Engineering Department of CHMSUTalisay showcased their wit, creativity, and application of learning by making miniature bridges to be tested for its strength and durability in the Bridge Building Competition in partnership with JSONO CHMSU-T Chapter, that took place last December 14 where the group of James Besinga, Arex Baladhay, Marjun Tanaleon, and Hezil Mae Vargas bagged the first place.

Moreover, ACIP CHMSU-Talisay Student Chapter also proudly announced the winning teams for LegACI 2022: E-games Wildrift’s 1st and 2nd runner up namely “TEAM BANG” and “INTING SA(Y)SON “.

Clifford L. Legaspi

By Jane E. Soberano

CAS takes first place in the ASEAN Battle of the Brains, Administered by the SOC SCI Guild of the four campuses, takes place at the University Gymnasium, September 13. Roniel H. Capanas

Wordsmiths Club Members during the SDG Cafe and Expo 2022 at the Global Learning Cafe at the Dining Hall, CHMSU-Talisay, November 2. I Kian Syd C. Blancia

Ryle Brian Carpio, Lexter Amaque, and Ken Rasimo of Unit 1 show off during cheer dance competition happened at CHMSU-Talisay gymnasium, December 6. Jane E. Soberano

PHOTO ACIP CHMSU-Talisay Student Chapter

By Glylia May M. Montevirgen

THE GREEN PARADOX

Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU) has this to say as its institutional philosophy — Good governance, Research-oriented, Extension-driven, Education of Sustainable Development, and Nation-building (GREEN).

The realities we have on the ground include the low rate of student involvement in the university student council processes, other activities, and campus affairs. Marred by the systematic brokenness we have in the university, the tardiness and inconsistencies of academic impositions such as schedule, activities, and class arrangements, students are burned up that they are to no avail for involving themselves with all such developments.

From a more particular view, the duty of a student council includes fixing the system and mobilizing the students even beyond the rusty chains that systematically strangle them. But never is there

a time, at least just this academic year, that the University Student Government (USG) stands or speaks up on behalf of the crucial issues raised by some students during times when the existing policies were significantly in conflict with their rights. More so, never have we heard the highest council taking hold of their power to legislate measures for the benefit of the CHMSU Students.

One may guess, this perhaps is the new brand of good governance.

A perfect measure that should have been critically pushed through by the USG is the handbook revision. The handbook includes policies that empower backward developments, in contrast to that expressed by the university’s GREEN Philosophy. One example covers the heteronormative policy concerning hair length for male students regardless of gender expression, asserted to maintain moral orders and proper decorum between and among the students.

For a self-proclaimed GREEN institution, the paradox goes with the way CHMSU made this imposition implicitly siding up with a perspective that is obviously not sciencebased. The university has held much of the

What does USG seem to forget?

The university student government should mirror our collective ideas of a good government — one that diligently serves the common interest and is always accountable to the people. But the CHMSU Student Government seemed to have forgotten this when, even after the induction of their newly appointed officers, they never posted at least an announcement, explaining why there was no USG election.

Last year’s SSG (now USG) election was undemocratic. I wrote a column about it and the same was included in the publication of our 2022 tabloid. We were ironically reminded to exercise our right to Suffrage when there was only one running party involved. And while one may argue that the council holds no control over the wills and decisions

By Renante Sugar T. Bawa-an

of the students to run for a student council position, the student government has the duty to mold and hone student leaders. Besides the fact that this undemocratic practice did not only happen during the previous years, having little to no students participating or involving themselves in the student council election entails a failure on the part of the USG. This year, I could no longer echo the very same view. There was no election; just an appointment. But does this year make anything better than last year? I say no.

traditional but not necessarily researchoriented approaches in maintaining peace and order within its premise. There is no scientific research that supports the notion, whereby allowing male students to have long hair would impair our institutional groundwork for producing moral and professional forces.

The male haircut policy is just among the numerous issues which fuel the paradox that can only be resolved through handbook revision, backed up by scientific approaches more adaptive to current changes. The issues concerning the late dissemination of and inconsistent changes in various impositions like schedule, activities, and other academic arrangements that at length hamper students upon involving themselves with extracurricular events must be given gravity in genuine policy developments. A system of student government is to be established more transparent and accountable to its constituents, through a democratic campus election. With all these fully embraced, only then can we start actualizing the real GREEN

of appointment is contrived with the reasonable standard and rigorous screening to ensure that the council is filled with deserving student leaders, the CHMSU students deserve to know the reason behind the settlement.”

Our students are crucial elements in the development of the university student government. Bury me in the cemented grave of your millions of reasons, but they cannot alter the fact that the process of appointment has, in a darker depth, deprived students of their right to vote and select new student government officers. The least you can do is justify that deprivation.

Now, having none to read and realize, it would be too bold for me to say but ours is one that reflects the unaccountable.

“As early as the orientation days, we were inculcated with the vision “to be the leading green institution of higher learning in the global world by 2030.” But with the ironic policies and hypocritical strategies reflected in our student handbook, this is what we doubt very much.”

“ The USG should have explained to the studentry why there was no election this year. That is a basic practice of ethics and accountability. Even if the process

Acutus contra Vis

By Micah U. Guancia

It appears that “control” is better off as an album by SZA rather than a means to satisfy one’s militaristic obsessions, packaged under the guise of national love.

Now concealed beneath the illusive facade of House Bill No. 6486, otherwise known as the “National Service Training Program Act”, the pursuit of restoring the mandatory Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) program has been nothing short of a display of bigotry and desperation. With its emphasis on mobilizing the youth for military and civil services, one may argue that the essence of ROTC’s Renaissance is rooted in the idea of patriotism manifested in civic duty; as if participation entirely equates to the fulfillment of civic duty and consequently,

Auditing Facts

By Florence D. Guzon

Sovereign wealth funds are a clever way of investing and growing the people’s money and entails that a country’s economy is faring well. But as it stands, the Philippines is not yet in a position to create a wealth fund. With an economy reeling from the fatigue of the COVID-19 pandemic and bracing for a looming global recession in 2023, the establishment of a “Maharlika Invest Fund” misconstrues the economic realities of the country and is greatly deaf to the woes of the suffering Filipino.

The Philippine House of Representatives, on the behest of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as per Rep. Joey Salceda, approved in a record 17-day deliberations H.B. No. 6398, otherwise known as the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) bill. Authored by the president’s cousin and House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, along with his

By Bianca C. Montilla

Policing Patriotism Eye Opening is an Understatement:

the love for one’s country.

That being said, the youth now find themselves before a crossroad of identities: as Filipino citizens expected to fulfill national obligations in favor of patriotism and as individuals entitled to autonomy over how they express said patriotism.

The Compromise of Compliance vs. Choice

There is no denial to the youth’s prowess as cornerstones of the country. Section 13 of Article II of the Philippine Constitution acknowledges the youth’s vital contribution to nationbuilding, stipulating that it would “inculcate in the youth patriotism and nationalism, and encourage their involvement in public and civic affairs. ”In this context, the resistance towards ROTC qualifies one to wonder: “Is civic responsibility merely an option for those who oppose what it entails? If fulfilling one’s responsibility to the State is a core component of ROTC, then are those resisting it abandoning their obligation as Filipinos?” Such is not the case for uplifting freedom in education.

It should be established that choosing academic agency does not disregard the constitution. On the contrary, it is an acknowledgment of the State’s commitment to protect and promote the

people’s rights to quality education by upholding both academic freedom and a relevant education system whilst inculcating patriotism and nationalism. While the constitution does not exist as a suggestion, it is not as obsolete to eliminate choice either.

A Love so Limited

Furthermore, the question “Should patriotism be institutionalized?” likewise demands to be asked. It turns out that mandating national allegiance and civic involvement is not the foolproof elixir its disciples assume. Perhaps one of the factors Vice President Sara Duterte forgot to realize when she envisioned a pseudo-South Korea military enlistment program was the reality of draft dodging. Draft dodgers who wish to avoid military conscription resort to extreme methods like bribery, data forging, faking mental illness, selfharm, and intentional weigth gain or loss. Draft dodging, if anything, suggests that sometimes, the desire for independence outweighs the desire to respond to the command for love.

The “M” in ROTC stands for “Mandatory”

More importantly, this revival is built on very faulty foundations- on a culture

Sovereign in Debt

wife Tingog Rep. Yedda Romualdez, the president’s son, Senior Deputy Majority Leader Sandro Marcos, and other lawmakers, the bill seeks to establish the Maharlika Investment Fund which “promote economic development by making strategic and profitable investments in key sectors.”

Initially, the measure may seem harmless and beneficial to the country’s development, augmenting the gaps in government enterprises left by the General Appropriations Act. The bill’s principal goal is to be auxiliary to the achievement of the Agenda for Prosperity and the economic roadmap of the current regime. But upon closer inspection, several salient points of the bill make it different from other SWFs on which it was supposedly patterned. One of which is its means of funding.

Most SWFs, such as those of Norway and of our neighbor Indonesia, accumulate seed funds for their sovereign funds from a surplus income. But keep in mind that the Philippines does not have a surplus, it hasn’t for decades now. Our debt-to-GDP ratio is at 64% or P13.64 trillion which in the 2023 National Expenditure translates to 29.8% in debt servicing. The Maharlika Investment Fund seeks to draw its seed fund from Government Financial Institutions namely the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (100% of declared dividends based on income from the preceding year of the

of violence, power-tripping, and homophobia. Lest we forget why it was reduced to an optional course in the first place, the murder of Mark Chua along with testimonies of abuse exposes the oppressive nature polluting ROTC’s system. And although one may argue that the aforementioned is not what the program stands for, it is unfortunately what it tolerates, if not cultivates. It is yet again, another evidence of failure to learn from history; although that does not come as a surprise with this administration.

With a slew of academic demands and pressures, social and intrapersonal stressors, and post-pandemic acclamation, reinforcing mandatory ROTC in the education system would most likely breed the opposite of what it is supposed to fostera “love” that is grounded on condition and not on conviction. If the government is intentional enough to instill nationalism and patriotism, it should turn its eyes to existing subjects like history and National Service Training Program (NSTP) courses, whose worth more often than not, fails to compel students. Unless a system that rids itself of abuse is nurtured, the sacrifice of scholarly priorities in favor of one’s military fetishes is but a stubborn agenda.

The Spineless Environmental Work We Have

GREEN CHMSU, definitely has some ringing to it. No other institutions at Negros have those profound visions. The institution’s vision is ideally encompassing what we imagine our future is; exemplary Governance, eco-innovative Research, connectedness to Extended communities, quality Education for sustainability, and patriotism for the Nation. There is this disconnectedness among what is truly aimed at this pursuit. As an oddball, I sensed belongingness to CHMSU when I was in search of schools to transfer to. Among many other institutions, the school flags its environmental advocacy and causes. For me, it was a breath of hope to take part in it as a climate activist. There was a dedicated space for me to advocate for our environment until there wasn’t one. At some point, my activism wasn’t welcome, and to that, I walked on eggshells at the campus. Wary and anxious as if I’m being crackdown. That’s when my learning spaces were violated and progressiveness was discouraged. My brief yet defining exposure to the advocacy was disempowering. I felt defeated at that time because I was just getting started exploring the community I was hoping to collaborate with.

Environmental Consciousness is Cultivated at Learning Spaces

effectivity of the Act), the LandBank (P50 billion), and the Development Bank of the Philippines (P25 billion). This means the government funding, which is mainly drawn from debt, will be funneled to the MIF thereby creating a gap in the national budget and prompting more borrowing, either external or internal. This may widen our already concerning debt-to-GDP ratio, and with a fatigued economy still just bouncing back from the effects of a pandemic, more debt is more weight.

The scant resources for a seed fund warrant the MIF to look for funding elsewhere, most likely foreign investors. ASEAN briefing had this to say, discussing the MIF: with the government lacking surplus revenues to seed the fund, foreign investors may ultimately play a large part in determining the success or failure of the Philippines’ new sovereign wealth fund project. But foreign investment has proven to be an avenue for foreign intervention, and while the fund’s intent may be upright, it is easy to swerve into vested interest when a large stake is owned by a different entity.

The facts mentioned above are material to the issue of whether the creation of a sovereign wealth fund is a necessity. As it stands, the Philippines is neck-deep in debt, susceptible to the sway of foreign powers, and is mired in a cesspool of corruption. Moreover, the chief concern of the public

is the pain of the sky-high prices of commodities and subsistence-level wages. While the government’s objective of creating more leeway for infrastructure projects through the MIF may be in earnest, establishing a sovereign fund for which the country can barely scour for a seed fund at a time when our debt servicing is almost 30% of the National Expenditure and global market uncertainty with a looming recession may be ill-timed. If the Marcos admin wants to speed up development, addressing the concerns of the masses such as the increase in the minimum wage to a decent level, the improvement of social services, particularly in health care, and the rejuvenation of our agricultural sector, of which Marcos Jr. is head, are a good starter.

Instead of postulating and banking solely on the bankrolling of a fund sourced from additional debt, the government must improve its existing services to the Filipino and focus more on rural development. In its present state, the country is unable to create a true sovereign wealth fund. Thus, our lawmakers are seeking to conjure a pool of money out of debt and neo-liberal tactics that open the country to much greater risk than benefit. To push for the creation of the “Maharlika Invest Fund” misconstrues the economic realities of the country and is greatly deaf to the woes of the suffering Filipinos.

The whole of CHMSU is a lauded school for engineering and education. It also impresses the 17 Sustainable Development Goals from the UN’s 2030 Vision being integrated into the curriculum through subjects such as Environmental Science and Gender & Development. Both are designed to be the baseline knowledge of understanding society’s most prioritized issues. But how are these substantial thoughts being actualized beyond the classrooms? Does it only remain to be written theories while we call for praxis? The academe is a transformative space that bears the shared responsibility of accelerating the learners’ consciousness. On our campus, we have a greening task force, to begin with - a dedicated institutional arm for coordinating the school and external efforts. Focused on plastic mitigation and waste management where the institution is observing the no to single use of plastic policy at offices and classrooms. The task force is leaning towards a disciplinary approach through penalizing and sanctioning violators rather than retaining environmental consciousness in students. This decodes the widening gap of information on why we are still stuck in the awareness phase instead of pursuing a more transformative lens. The school is potentially positioned to frontline environmental campaigns - to harness that potential, there is an urgency to lay the groundwork on this.

Conscientize, Organize, Mobilize

“We already have the initiatives. Now, start reflecting and challenge the community,” these were the remarkable words of Rhoderick Samonte when I asked how green practices, ideas, and thoughts are being actualized. The issues of our environment are radicalizing - from genuine nature immersion to its semiotic intersectionality colliding midway. Somewhat, justice - it’s ancient and becomes senseless through the passing of time. We now wield technology to our best advantage: environmental science has emerged through multiple disciplines. But how is this being carried out across areas of our society? This seems to be not urgent, alarming, and dystopic for everyone else but it is for this generation. Storytelling the harsh realities of injustices is the truest way to conscientize learners - eyeopening is an understatement. With a progressive systemic approach, advocates will have an avenue of working proactively toward school-based efforts for the environment. Inner workings would then be actualized in the grassroots communities. In this sense and manner, this is what real leadership looks like.

How embraced is the philosophy of GREEN CHMSU?

In ideals, there were profound pronouncements. In action, still dreading the work of deliberation. In reality, there is a disconnect (non-encompassing of environmental justice), and underwhelming (untrue to its vision). Environmental justice at CHMSU is not practiced nor upheld - it is spineless.

We have no more time to spare and delay environmental justice. In the premise of the academe, when and where will you conscientize the learners about the glaring doom of ecological collapse hinting at the unimaginable future we’ll have? But no hope is lost for us, the fight for our future is in our hands.

Boiling Waters

By Bianca C. Montilla

Flower in the Wild

By Neil Kevin D. Natabio

OPINION

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The Religion of So-called “Laude”

I always ask my students at the start of the class, “What is your purpose for going to school?” They provided me with many answers; some were personal, while some were coming straight from a movie line. In the end, one thing is common: “They want to help their families and have a degree.”

Every year the university produces hundreds of graduates, and those socalled university products will become part of the workforce in society. However, due to the competitive nature of the economy today, some graduates have a hard time getting a job. Thus, society makes it a point that you have to be above the rest; one must have a Latin honor to bear the mark of being the crème de la crème of the batch. Before, one must wear a laurel as the identity of the word “honor.”

Now, medals are the new laurels in the university.

Hence, students are going gaga over this kind of trend, which I label as GCs or the “grade conscious.” To understand the GCs, I ask them what motivates them to be one. Some say it is a badge of honor because it is the fruit of their hard work; others want to give back their

In a press statement published on your official Facebook page on December 20, 2022, your esteemed publication elaborated on its views in light of the proposed National Citizens Service Training (NCST) bill, whose consolidated version already passed the final reading. I admire such fearless expressions of dissent. Issues, such as this one, should be dissected from a critical

sacrifice to their parents. This line makes me teary-eyed every time I hear it, and it is like watching a Lino Brocka movie where one strives hard to attain the status one wants.

It is a common theme in Filipino cinema, “a rags to riches” phenomenon. However, I can’t help but somehow get irritated by those GCs who bargain with their teachers for higher grades and get depressed if they cannot get the grade that they want. Some do not even perform commensurately beyond the teacher’s expectation to earn the grade they are demanding. This is the newfound religion of laude among the students. Paul Tillich, a German protestant theologian, defined religion as “a state of being grasped by an ultimate concern, a concern which qualifies all other concerns as preliminary, and which itself contains the answer to the question of the meaning of our life.” If we follow Tillich’s definition and contextualize it to students’ beliefs, then being grade conscious to become a laude is a religion. Religion demands martyrdom, similar to those students who are willing to commit suicide or act unethically just to get what they want! Think about a radical suicide bomber who shouts with vitriol against the so-called infidels and

viewpoint as they may have serious consequences for the nation. I, too, believe that the imposition of such obligatory services and an additional load on the struggling Filipino students is impractical and absurd, given the myriad of unresolved problems that cripple the country’s educational system. With this, I am hopeful that the TechnopacerTalisay would continue to

then clicks the detonator to obliterate them.

Kierkegaard creatively crafted a name for this kind of mentality in his thesis on religion: “In the name of a higher cause”. This is similar to the Christian crusades; one must be fearless, fanatic, and ultimately, dogmatically crazy to rally for the higher cause.

In the same manner, this religion has its doctrine that one must look at grades as the objective of belief which translates as the “alpha and omega,” and teachers are an instrument of delivering the grades, reducing them as the “creature of the process.” Of course, this belief will not be complete without the ritual element where a believer prays that heaven will move or change the course of history by appealing to their teacher and becoming a sycophant to reciprocate the favor.

This is a modern-day prayer of grade fanatics. Whereas they create myths that grades are the end-all and be-all of everything. It is considered the ticket to a better life and acceptance by society. The more you pray, the more chances of changing the course of the event. Philosophically, this refers to reductionism.

This kind of newfound religion of students is attributed to the dominance of social media, where they

dissect the issue, shedding light on the perspective and opinions of the studentry. Moreover, I am hoping that your publication will utilize its platforms to rally support against such desperate and deceitful efforts to militarize academic institutions. Carlos Hilado Memorial State University, being an academic institution whose mission is to “empower learners,” should be one in holding the line of

JJ Clyde N. Silvano

SCI-TECH WRITER

Micah U. Guancia

Florence D. Guzon

Bianca C. Montilla

COLUMN WRITERS

Carah Mae C. Blanca

Clifford L. Legaspi

NEWS WRITERS

Tanya S. Aguirre

Roberta Leigh C. Moreno

Julie Jane G. Paraon

FEATURE WRITERS

Kian Syd C. Blancia

Roniel H. Capanas

Nelouiase F. Tatud

Niel Patrick T. Valdevieso

PHOTOJOURNALISTS

Eugene Paolo S. Labrador

Andre L. Ladua

Charito A. Radan III

LAYOUT AND GRAPHICS ARTISTS

Lorena Jeah R. Deferia

Marlon De Guzman

ILLUSTRATORS

once become an overnight celebrity by putting a lot of captions and pictures to brag about their achievements. I am not bitter about posting achievements on social media, but I am disgusted by how social media framed the minds of students, which I call “indoctrination of honors.”

The netizen’s likes, shares, and positive comments make the student thirsty for recognition. Hence, social media has become a “Cathedral of beliefs” where one boosts their ego by receiving such admiration.

In other words, for Abraham Maslow, the major driving force of becoming part of this religion is social media recognition. It is called the “peak of experience “ or ecstasy. This is where the grades become a depressant or stimulants. Like any other religion, it gives ups and downs. It becomes a depressant if one does not meet the expectation and leads to detachment from “religion” or stimulants because of the rewards from the external.

Sigmund Freud once defined religion as “collective neurosis,” or religion is an illusion, and it derives its strength from its readiness to fit in with our instinctual wishful impulses. This was written in 1933 from his book “New Introductory Lectures on Psychoanalysis”. He deduces that religion makes a

defense against the deceptive attempt to impose additional burdens on Filipino students and threaten academic freedom. Holding the line, however, calls for more than just amplifying voices; it also calls for the entire studentry to stand their ground against the issue, which, in my opinion, your publication is capable of making possible.

I firmly believe in the power of critical journalism.

person foreign to reality and cannot rise above the view of life. He further explained that religion represses our rational operation of the intellect. In short, we are made to be infantile, unable to unleash the best in us.

Finally, the scope and delimitation of my thesis on the newfound religion of students do not equate to my view of religion as a whole. What I am trying to emphasize is that students drift to a belief that graduating with “laude” sums up your worthiness in society. Like a religion with an apocalypse story, you will know the meaning of grades when you leave the university’s portals. Where numbers don’t matter, it is how you apply your learning and work as a team. I stress the importance of a high emotional quotient. I can’t blame some students for believing that graduating with Latin honors promises a “beatific vision” that is why they commit unethical practices as a sort of “leap of faith” that promises “cheap grace.”

“Not knowingly, this religion is nothing but mere opium that makes you malleable and attaches you to a society where the state makes you a machine who turns a blind eye to the suffering of others. If being laude is a grade conscious religion, I would rather be an atheist who does iconoclasm.”

I believe in its ability to wake people’s consciousness and shape public opinion, and so it is worthy to expect that as your reputable publication could hold a critical position in shaping every ..... CHMSUan’s perspective on the controversial NCST bill, the TechnopacerTalisay would continue to be “always forward” and “always fearless.”

The Technopacer - Talisay Office, second floor of the Student Center Building, Carlos Hilado Memorial State University - Talisay Campus, Mabini Street, Talisay City 6115, Negros Occidental, Philippines

The Technopacer - Talisay is the official student publication of Carlos Hilado Memorial State University - Talisay Campus. The views and opinions expressed by the authors and contributors on this volume do not necessarily reflect those of the university, its closed partners, or any of its affiliates.

All rights reserved. No part of this tabloid or any portion hereof shall be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without prior permission from the publisher.

By Sensei M. Adorador

Dierdre Rossell B. Azucena EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

TRIGGER WARNING: SUICIDE, DEATH

20 More Seconds, Please

By Dierdre Rossell B. Azucena

Slowly, the whispers crept on me like night creatures. Tears welled up and started rolling down like a never-ending stream. The ticking of the clock added to the cacophony of whispers. I clutched my pillow tightly, hoping it would give me comfort, but knowing it never did and never will. Thirty-seven, thirtyeight, thirty-nine, forty. Perhaps sleep would envelop me if I stopped being so curious about so many things. As much as I want to sleep, the truth is, I don’t want to wake up.

The world loses one person to suicide every 40 seconds.

Whether in films or on television, suicide does not occur exactly as it is depicted. Attempting suicide does not equate to being insane, selfish, or stupid. The decision to take one’s own life is influenced by numerous psychological factors, the majority of which are misunderstood. It also does not just happen overnight.

Suicide is stigmatized by society, which maintains the erroneous belief that suicidal individuals are weak, lack willpower, or crave

THE GREAT DECLINE

By Stephane Ann Rose P. Panagane

Her supple skin already has big cracks stretching bigger and bigger. Each day passes by and she is now closer to her end. Her body is becoming smaller, frailer, and more derailed. Death prowls like a predator, waiting for her to humbly lie down and disappear from this finite world. Is this what they say as the fulfillment of the prophecy, or a result of something else?

attention. This contributes significantly to how suicide is viewed negatively and is even considered a taboo subject in the Philippines. Suicide cannot be discussed because of society’s judgments and criticisms; many individuals are misinformed.

According to the Population Institute of the University of the Philippines, approximately one in five Filipino youth aged 15 to 24 had considered suicide. In addition, according to the UPPI’s 2021 Young Adult Fertility and Sexuality Study (YAFS5), nearly 1.5 million adolescents (7.5% of adolescents) attempted suicide in 2021. This represents an increase of 4.5 percentage points over the 3% recorded in 2013, or an increase of 574,000 young people who attempted suicide.

Depression and other conditions that contribute to suicidal tendencies are not like other diseases that can be cured once and for all. They are like unwelcome house guests you can’t evict in just a snap; they are the loud voices in your head that you can’t ignore. They recur, and for many victims, they are conditions that they must endure for the remainder of their lives. Therefore, despite the fact that suicide is a highly sensitive subject, it must be brought up occasionally at every table. Avoiding the subject hinders our ability to comprehend the gravity of the situation. In the meantime, victims contemplate in silence until they reach the worst possible conclusion. People who contemplate suicide typically do not want to die. Instead, they desire mental pain relief.

An added weight to this issue is how conservative and religious the countryPhilippines is. It is high time that people

rethink the notion that death by suicide is a sin against God because even the most religious people are not an exempt from feelings and thoughts of suicidality. Furthermore, thoughts and prayers are never nearly enough for those who struggle and wrestle with suicidal ideations.

Sharing and retweeting help hotlines will never be enough to put an end to suicide. Everything still all boils down to the lack of awareness of mental health problems in our society, thus, it is crucial to educate people regarding this issue. Moreover, one thing that we all can offer is to be kind — to be available to other people, to listen, and to understand.

Thoughts and feelings of suicide are not just a trend; they are serious societal problems waiting to be addressed and end to. May it not be buried along with the other issues our country has been facing since time immemorial. Because burying it will be like burying our dreams and hopes; the people we love and even ourselves can be victims.

Prowling stealthily, death gently knocked…tapped rather, on the door. I can hear his voice calling my name like a metal scraped against the surface of another metallic object. He peered in the crackholes of the door. His stare hungrily seeped in my mind.

Thirty-seven, thirty-eight, thirtynine, forty. That’s it- you’re doing just right. I could give you 40 seconds or more of my time. Please. Talk to me.

Euphrates River, the main water source of areas in Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Syria. It is widely known as one of the most important and longest rivers in Western Asia. Where there is water, there is life, thus many civilizations have sprouted from its great riverbanks. For thousands of years, the Euphrates has been a source of water and life; it was and is an access point for transportation and trade. It is also an important source of hydroelectric power to supply the electrical demands and needs of the citizens. Like a powerful queen, Euphrates has flourished in her vast territory—her body.

However, the greatness of this popular river is gradually receding. Recently this year, many were shocked by the news about the Euphrates River drying up. Photos of then and now of the great river show a big difference in appearance, because it is obvious that a huge amount of water has decreased in this particular body of water.

Many Christians are now making noise claiming that this is a sign of Christ Jesus’ second coming—a prophecy being fulfilled from the Bible. In Revelations 16:12, it states there that the great river Euphrates will be dried up so that the way for the kings from the East will be prepared. This leads to the big question: Are we at the end times?

Unfortunately, it is not only

the Euphrates River that has been drying up. According to CNN, rivers in different parts of the world are also drying up. The Colorado River in the United States, the Yangtze River in China, the Rhine River in Western Europe, the Po River in Northern Italy, the Loire River in France, and the Danube River in Central and Eastern Europe, are also drying up. One main reason why drought is happening is climate change, which has been caused by human activities. Whether the prophecy that many believe is true or not, one thing is for sure: we have been irresponsible and careless with our environment. The Earth has been providing us with everything that we need, yet we have not reciprocated the care it deserves. Thus, we are now reaping the fruit of our actions. Should we wait until almost all freshwater producing bodies of water will also dry up before we become mindful of our actions?

Cries of despair will soon ring in the air as this great decline will bring further crises. The scorching heat of the sun harshly beat on her. Holding on for her existence, she wishes that her children, the people surrounding her, can do something to ease her pain…to find a remedy. Even tears no longer come out of her. Not even sweat could she produce. What would happen if she were to cease to exist?

“It would be better if death were to knock tonight. I hope he stops by.”

By Tanya S. Aguirre

Hundreds of tongues proclaimed his victory and aspired to embody his intelligence and combative spirit.

Myriad eyes saw the moment he stepped on the summit, but only a few witnessed when he lost his drive to pursue what he started in the midst of his journey.

Jefferson Yu Cafino obtained his education at Carlos Hilado Memorial State University’s Talisay Campus. He took, passed, and aced the Civil Engineering Licensure Examination in November 2022 as a fresh Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering graduate. He finished in tenth place with a 92.90 percent rating.He was fascinated enough by science, mathematics, and a grasp of how things work to choose the path he is currently on. He

that motivations alone are inadequate. You won’t always feel inspired. There will be times when you lack the drive to keep doing the things you once loved.

“At the start of the pandemic, my daily routine was changed. This led me to getting an almost zero in a test on one of my major subjects,” Engr. Cafino said.

Life under lockdown was undeniably tough. People were isolated in their homes, and face-to-face classes were prohibited. Weariness and anxiousness were inevitable. In order not to waste a couple of years waiting for the pandemic to end, students had to put up with an ineffective mode of learning. Effectiveness relies on the stability of an internet connection and access to technology.

The COVID-19 epidemic was a turning point in history where most people lost their drive to learn. Less teacher and student interaction occurs in online classes. Due to the fact that students must study alone, work alone, and are unable to interact physically with others, loneliness

person rants with friends and classmates.

Engineer Jefferson was just like any other student. He, too, went through some of the same challenges as others do. But what set him apart was how he perceived and dealt with the difficulties he encountered.

“I should not rely on my motivation or drive. I need to discipline myself better,” he added. “I put in a lot of hours studying every day, focusing mainly on whichever topics I was weak at. I took mock tests and tried to answer them faster than the actual board exams to get used to the pressure of the actual exam. Most importantly, I took care of myself physically and mentally to be at my best during the exam.

He just proved that in order to acquire victory, change or put your behaviors in progress. He did not stop with his motivations; instead, he went deeper and beyond them.He took it all and put it into pieces of habit. He developed daily behaviors that were quite uncomfortable for him to do, yet he knew that through them he would grow. A person’s habits today will determine his future.

“Focus on the process and not on the results. Don’t rely on the motivations too much, and discipline yourself. You might run out of motivation, but your good habits and discipline won’t go away easily,” he quoted. Behind every triumph were the uncomfortable things that a person decided to do and made into habits. Motivations will comfort him, but discipline will let him grow. It will come not when you are driven to pursue your goals, but when you feel powerless and lack the will to continue. Discipline is not about perfection but about consistency. Engineer Jefferson Cafino did not focus his sight on what was on the peak of his mountain but rather invested in building the blocks that would lead him to the summit. He once dreamed of becoming an engineer, and he broke it down into pieces of behavior. Time had puzzled everything, and he had already seen the greatest picture that had been prepared for him.Indeed, motivations come and go, but his tiny habits became a part of him.

GOT SAM-TING GOT SAM-TING

By Roberta Leigh C. Moreno

The hustle and bustle of the big city can wear us down at times. From pending activities to work stress, we all have something weighing our shoulders. It’s good to exert your best effort, but don’t forget to treat yourself with kindness.

We all owe ourselves a treat, a reward for a job well done. And, what better way to treat yourself than to try Unlimited Samgyupsal served in Minerva’s Kitchen! A must-try place for food lovers on a budget. Small and unassuming, this hidden gem is sure to satiate your stomach and your spirit. Minerva’s Kitchen prides itself on serving delicious and affordable Korean cuisine.

Their most popular dish is the Unlimited Samgyupsal, a Korean BBQ feast featuring a variety of marinated meats that you can grill right at your table. And the best part? It’s only Php 199 per person. That’s right, for just Php 199, you can enjoy all-you-can-eat Samgyupsal and fixings!

This place has always been on my bucket list of places I want to try, so when the chance presented itself, I went ahead and grabbed it.

On the night of the successful conclusion of our school event, my friends and I were contemplating what to do after such a tiring day. After three days of constant back-and-forth to cover events and tournaments, we ought to reward ourselves, right? So there we were, in the middle of the hustle and bustle of students, asking ourselves what to do next.

Should we cook at home?

Too tired. Our bones felt like brittle sticks about to collapse at any given time. How could we exert the energy to cook?

Fast Food?

Too generic. We can already taste the

flavor in our mouths even before trying it.

Ting! What about Samgyupsal?

Unlimited Samgyupsal with Unli Pork, Unli Rice, Unli Lettuce, Unli Side Dish, and Unli Samjang/Gochujang? Sign me up!

Arriving at Minerva’s Kitchen, our fatigued bodies were greeted by a brightly lit restaurant. The place was clean and organized, with minimal decor. We found a spot and promptly seated ourselves.

Their service was great. We placed our order, and right away our table was filled with an array of mouthwatering dishes, causing me to nearly swallow my tongue. The thinly sliced pork they served came in two varieties, one unmarinated and the other coated with kimchi sauce. The kimchi had a balanced taste, not too spicy or overpowering, which paired well with the pork and rice. Their ssamjang and gochujang were thick and flavorful, giving a nice kick to the taste buds with every bite. The lettuce was fresh and crisp, serving as a perfect canvas to mix and match different dishes with flavors that will suit your taste. The star of the meal, however, was the pickled radish. Sweet and tangy, this crunchy and savory dish cleansed our palate in between bites and easily became our favorite. I would have liked to pack some for myself if it was allowed.

Cooking pork on an open grill was a fun experience, albeit a little scary. And using chopsticks was challenging, but I endured for the sake of “authenticity.”

Minerva’s Kitchen satiated our

FEATURE

AI: THE FU(TOR)TURE OF ART

What do we have here?

The future, apparently.

How often do we stumble upon a work of art so stunning we forget to hitch a blink? How often do we click on a piece of work so intricate we don’t even want

to scroll down? A digital picture so magical, you are fine bewitched. Not so rare anymore, right? The birth of technology, the rise of computers, and the inexorable evolution of the year C.E.—Computer Era—are what made this possible. The recent explosion brought by the propagating success of artificial intelligence has created turmoil in the

creative industry. Praise for these software has gone erratic and loud due to their efficient end result, but the fight to end the rape of artists’ efforts is also sounding just as deafening. Technology was invented to make the lives of humans easier, more convenient, and speedy. Artificial intelligence was born out of these ideals too. Modeled after a real human framework—able to think, calculate, write novels, or even brew your coffee. It’s great that we have

these helpers, the ground to which we can chill over such excruciating tasks. But there’s a shade to that. They say computers are going to be the monarchs of the world in the future. But someone will beg to differ. If anything else, artificial intelligence has become the 21st-century counterpart of maids, servants, and butlers. So to say they will rule is a joke. Siri? Alexa? Cortana? Meet a few of the enslaved AIs. Heirs to the bits and codes and sired by their sexist creators. Not only have they infiltrated the world of labor, but they,

too, have crawled into the world of arts and literature . You have probably heard of Grammarly and Quillbot. You must have. Surely, you do. They are two of the most hit AI writers and content generators, famous for their impeccable aid in your journey as a student. Like how this article must have also gone through Grammarly because the writer is already too tired to manually proofread. Lawyered. And guilty as charged. If you are an artist, you must have heard of Midjourney, Dall-E, and Stable Diffusion. Few of the software that generates images based on prompts. By simply punching in some words, scribbling weak lines, and voicing instructions, a work

that would have supposedly taken a week or a month to complete was done in only a few minutes. That sounds convenient. 10/10 would definitely try.

Not until you are one of the writers and the artists who went to such great lengths to master their crafts, who spent tears, and who invested sweat in their creations. For you to only work with an AI and then call yourself an artist, is an utter slur.

As a practicing artist myself, my stand falls to the bereaved, uncredited, and fallen artworks that were used as a reference net for these AI-generated images. One with the marching band since day 1, going forward.

So, what do we have here?

The future, apparently. Is this the future of the lazy? Is this truly a great move of advancement, or nothing but a fake copy of true artistry?

A Work of Art

By Tanya S. Aguirre youth to stand up and fight for their rights.

The lights shined down and illuminated the crowd as it descended on her glamorous golden gown. She walked with elegance and power. She gracefully waved her hands, and the sweetest smile curved in her face. As she reigned over the crowns of beauty and intelligence, she conquered self-doubt and insecurities. She sprinkled hope and healing pixie dust on a society riddled with harmful criticisms and discrimination.

After two years of life under lockdown, a humble young lady, Ednalyn Garcia, was crowned Miss Intramurals 2022 of Carlos Hilado Memorial State University. She is a Luna from the Blue Alpha, taking up Bachelor of Physical Education. She is also the President of the Student Society of the Physical Education Majors. She spends her season as a youth volunteering in various organisations and movement in Bacolod and Negros Province. She is a volunteer of Akbayan Youth, the Alliance of Socialist Feminists, Youth for Risa Hontiveros, and the First Time Voters Network Negros. She saw Miss Intramurals 2022 as a favor to raise awareness and empower the

“When I was asked to give my analysis on the picture shown, I felt the urge to speak up about activism and terrorism because it is time to end the misconception between the two,” she said. She put an end to the misconception during the question and answer portion that youths are terrorists. Numerous youths were red-tagged, and it is one of the rampant illnesses of a sick society. She’s affiliated with organizations and movements that fight for human rights, and it’s undeniably tough given the norms and stereotypes that currently exist.

She once believed that the reason she wanted to engage herself in pageantry was for the glitz and glamor. However, growing up in a sick society made her realize that the essence of beauty pageants is to empower individuals who will soon empower others.

“Before I decided to join Miss Intramurals 2022, I was full of insecurities and self-doubt. I faced so many negative criticisms and discriminations,” she stated.

Red-tagging is not the only issue rampant in society. A lot of young people suffered as they were attacked, judged,

and criticized. Prejudice is also a battle faced by the young community. Ednalyn was also subjected to body shaming and unfair criticism. However, she knows what battle to choose.

“I know that I am called to stand up and voice out for those who have been stepped down and silenced,” the reigning Miss Intramurals 2022 quoted.

She gave herself a boost. She allowed herself to feel her insecurities and self-doubt. She didn’t linger, though, on her sinister ideas or the chaos society had wrought. She used her strength and selfassurance to impart healing and hope to people who were in need by transforming her brokenness.

Have you ever witnessed a potter creating a clay vase?

You believed that you were a stinky mess. You will need to have parts of you removed, thrown away, and thoroughly polished. Although the entire process may not be pain-free, if you trust in the potter, you will be molded and painted.

Ednalyn is a work of art. It wasn’t an accident that she won, just because she was clever. Everything happened as it was meant to. She is a masterpiece that exhibits beauty, boldness, and bravery after everything she has been through.

By Julie Jane G. Paraon

ASSESSMENT OF PPE USE AMONG SIFI-ASSISTED ARBOs

By JJ Clyde N. Silvano

Most of us honor the dead but seem to mistreat the living — in striving to plant food over the fallen graves. Even saints do not confine themselves solely to the edges carried out by the ones who existed in the past. Some are in

project spearheaded by Sir Rhoderick K. Samonte, CHMSU’s Director for External Affairs.

the present, sacrificing so much of themselves for the people to have something on their plates. Now that our society faces crises — in agriculture, in the economy, and in health — what did you do to help those lives?

Sir Rhoderick K. Samonte, CHMSU’s Director for External Affairs, had one for this when his research study regarding “Assessment of PPE Use among SIFI-

“The research is not yet finished. So what was presented was just an initial result a few weeks ago, but we are still in the process of editing the paperwork. Although we have already collected the data and the results of the subject for further validation.” Sir Rhoderick K. Samonte, aforementioned during the face-to-face interview with The Technopacer - Talisay.

As an offshoot of the project, Sir Rhoderick K. Samonte was invited by the Sugar Industry Foundation Inc. (SIFI) to research the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) in relation to farming amidst the pandemic. This was introduced to sugar farmers way back in 2017.

“The two major

department. It was done in partnership with Sugar Industry Foundation Inc. (SIFI) and SIFI was really pleased with the results.” Sir Rhoderick K. Samonte highlighted.

The initial finding shows that Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) itself needs further innovation with regard to the comfort of the farmer. In this research, aside from the SocSci students, Sir Samonte also tapped one (1) student from the BSIT program in Fashion and Apparel to consult on which material suits the farmers best.

On the other hand, a workshop was also initiated in which every farmer was able to create their own design regarding Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Incentives will also be given to the farmer who adopts the common policy of the organization.

The research was conducted in March. Supposedly, it should have started last January but was delayed due to the funding.

“It is supposedly a oneyear thing; the research should be finished by December, but because of the 2-month delay, the research will be extended until January or February next year. However, if the way things have been moving, I hope we can finish it within this year. So that I can present a fullblown study.” Sir Samonte added.

According to the collected data, the said research has already reached a total of

Guiding Hands to Write a Better Future

By Stephane Ann Rose P. Panagane

Guiding a child’s hand to write recognizable letters and numbers has been a challenging task for some parents and guardians, especially when the child’s hand is just beginning to familiarize how to maneuver a pencil. At this time, a solution to this challenge has been invented.

Dr. Armando R. Reosura, a professor at Carlos Hilado Memorial State University,

has invented a remarkable product, a Pen-Holding Training Apparatus, to effectively correct the posture of the hand in writing. In a featured post made by Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines dated September 30, 2022, said apparatus is beneficial, especially to children learning to write, and can even be used for rehabilitation purposes.

This is just one of Dr. Reosura’s registered Patents and Utility Models. He has

joined and has triumphed over several awards in regional and national inventions and exhibits. It is not just the inventions that are remarkable, but also the inventor.

Guiding a child’s hand to learn how to write would seem like a chore, but it is the fundamental step in guiding that child to write his/ her own future. This is just the onset of helping the future generation to be better so that they can write a better tomorrow.

Negros joins the Nationwide People’s Climate Strike

Assisted ARBOs” was successfully disseminated and utilized.

Remembering, Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU) has an existing partnership with the Sugar Industry Foundation Inc. (SIFI), which is called the Partnership for Empowerment, Advancement, and Continuing Education (PEACE) of the Agrarian Reform Beneficiary Organization (ARBOS) under the College of Arts and Sciences Extension Program, an extension

components of the project with the support of the multinational companies should not include child labor and the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).”

“The study involves the Social Science students who graduated last year. During their senior year, they volunteered to act as data gatherers and enumerators; there were about six (6) SocSci students who participated and were credited as part of their internship. So basically, this is a research project under the department of social science and the faculty of the

34 Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Organizations (ARBOs) with 774 respondents.

Most of us honor the dead but seem to mistreat the living, in striving to plant food over the fallen graves. But Sir Samonte and those with him in said research are some of the few who did something to help those lives. Where farmers sacrifice so much of themselveS for us to have something on our plates, may we be moved by his study.

By Dierdre Rossell B. Azucena

After winning the battle against dirty energy yesterday, along with multisectoral groups all over the country, climate advocates in Negros Occidental still continuously raised their calls for #ClimateJustice at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon, November 16.

Rev. Fr. Chris Gonzales of the Social Action Center of the Diocese of Bacolod inaugurated the short program, which was later led by Juan Miguel Yulo of Konsyumer - Negros and Bianca Montilla of Youth for

Climate Hope (Y4CH).

Organized by Bukluran ng mga Manggawang Pilipino - Negros, KonsyumerNegros, Sanlakas, Philippine Movement for Climate Justice, and Y4CH, the Climate Strike was also joined and attended by sectoral groups such as the urban poor, farmers, fisherfolk, PWDs, women, civil society organizations, and youth. This initiative aligns with the vulnerable countries’ demands for climate reparations at the 27th United Nations Climate Change Conference in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, this November.

The island of Negros and its grassroot communities continue to fight for climate justice despite 27 years of COP failure. Considering that we will have two delegates at COP 27 in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, this year, the island’s successes are evidence of this possibility. This chance takes Negros’ decades-long struggle against environmental devastation and fossil fuel projects into the international spotlight, particularly because Negros is still fossil-free, as evidenced by the withdrawal of SAN MIGUEL REDI with their ECC application.

Rev. Fr Chris Gonzales, Director of the Diocesan Social Action Center group, outcries for climate justice during the People’s Climate Strike at Provincial Capitol Lagoon, November 16. Kian Syd C. Blancia

GRAPHICS Eugene Paolo S. Labrador

GRAPHICS I Eugene Paolo S. Labrador

SPORTS

To Lose is to Win: A Smash Victor’s Outlook

By Vince Guardiano

By Glylia May M. Montevirgen

Victory is always the beacon to motivate someone to grab success. The rain of confetti, the deafening applause, and the sweet taste of sweat of a victor’s success is a feeling one could never fathom.

However, to others, victory means the other way. It is through acquiring valuable lessons, victory is to taste defeat– a champion can stumble and fall.

“When playing badminton, you really need to reach the shuttle, despite the uncertainty, because if you want to aim, there will always be a way. Even though you lose, carry on, because you need to be a loser to be a champion.”

This is the perspective of victory of the 2022 Intramural Torch Bearer, Jomel E. Malan, 4th Year Bachelor of Physical Education student of Carlos Hilado Memorial State University.

Playing since his 5th grade at Concepcion Elementary School, Jomel had this mindset of winning,

despite the sport being out of his league.

“At first, it was always table tennis that I wanted to play. However, my father bought me a different racket—badminton. So, as a kid and an elementary student, when I first saw the racket, I immediately transferred and played the sport.” Jomel said in an exclusive interview with The Technopacer- Talisay.

Meanwhile, being the youngest of four, it was his father who was really proud of him. When he goes home after bagging the 1st place, he shares his shock every time that his father already knew of his victory because of his father’s friends.

Like any other varsity players, Jomel played in different sports meets—from municipal to provincial level, he played badminton under the banner of his previous institutions.

To Jomel, badminton led the way for him to know himself, enhancing and developing him

to who he is today. More so, badminton opened opportunities for him—being an umpire and player in tournaments he was invited to in Bacolod City and Dumaguete. These invitations of him being an officiating umpire also paved the way for Jomel to make ends meet, especially in his allowances.

Last RSCUAA 2019, Jomel played badminton for CHMSU, and along with his team, they bagged the championship against West Visayas State University.

As words of wisdom to aspiring badminton players, and players of any sport, Jomel imparted these:

“Train hard. Most especially, always remember to learn from losing. For in accepting defeat, you will be a champion. Also, instill discipline in yourself, and be humble.”

In the recently concluded Intramurals, Jomel played for the College of Education and was hailed as champion.

Orange Tigers Roar Victory in ESports

By Glylia May M. Montevirgen

The University Dining hall was filled with yells, proving that the virtual world is their empire, the Orange Tigers seized to claim three (3) gold medals for the Esports competition, during the 2022 Intramurals festival of CHMSU - Talisay held last December 5-7.

With eyes focused and minds ready to attack, the Orange Tigers, with their strategies and

heroes destroying turrets and towers in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. Meanwhile, the heroes of Unit-1 Blue Alphas of the College of Education placed 2nd and were followed by the Unit-2 Red Cheetahs of the College of Industrial Technology.

Meanwhile, armed as soldiers in the virtual battlefield, the Orange Tigers again proved that their keen senses and calculated defenses are worth the title for the champions. The event concluded

as the Blue Alphas garnering silver medal, while the Red Cheetahs as bronze medalist.

Consequently, Orange Tigers also dominated the League of Legends: WildRift, while the Blue Alphas defended the silver medal, and the Green Griffins of Unit III finished as bronze medalist.

With the rise of ESports as one of the competitions for the Sports Competition, it is expected that more virtual warriors will emerge in CHMSU-Talisay.

Isa ka tion sadto nag desisyon ko nga ma sleep over sa balay sang akon classmate kay tungod may talapuson kami nga project. Babaw dalom ang ila panimalay kag ang mas nagpanami pa sini ang mga dekorasyon, paintings kag drawings nga ara sa picture frame. Pagkaabot namon, nagdiretso siya una sa iya kwarto nga ara sa second floor sang ila balay para dal on sa babaw ang akon mga gamit. Samtang gasunod pasaka, nd ko gid mapunggan ang akon mga mata nga hindi magtulok sa mga drawing nga ara nakasab-it sa ila dingding.

Namangkot ko kung ngaa kadamo gd sang mga manami nga drawing sa ila balay, sabat ya sa akon kay tungod artist kuno ang iya amay. Mga alas onse namon sang gab-e natapos ang project kag nagtulog na dayon kay pwerti na kami sadto kakapoy. Nakabugtaw ko mga kaagahon kay gusto ko mangihi. Nanaog ko sa first floor kay ang CR ara pa sa dalom. Pagtapos ko pangihi kag pagpasaka ko sang hagdan, nagpundo

ko liwat kag nagtulok sa mga picture frames nga may drawing nga nakasabit sa dingding.

Kadamo sang manami nga portrait pero ang nakadakop gid sang akon atensyon kag natulala gid ko sang tulok, ang picture frame nga may drawing nga gamurarat nga lalaki nga may pwerti kadako nga ngirit. Kung haluson, damo realistic nga drawing kag painting pero amo gId to ang pinakapinasahi sa tanan.

Pagkatapos sang akon paningadningad, nagsaka na ko sa babaw kag nagbalik tulog. Pagbugtaw namon sa aga kag pagpanaog ko sa hagdan, nagpundo ko liwat kag ginpangita ang picture frame nga gn himutaran ko gina sang kaagahon.

Nakibot ko kag hindi ko mapunggan ang pagpalanindog sang akon balahibo sang nakita ko nga ang drawing sa may picture frame nga akon madugay nga ginhimutaran, isa gale ka bintana.

SPORTS

UNIT 1 HOWLS BIG TIME, ZOOMS IN AS OVERALL SPORTS CHAMPS

By Clifford L. Legaspi

“Alpha wolves never lose, either they win, or win.”

Establishing the alpha way, this is the mantra of the pack whom asserted supremacy – Unit 1 Blue Alphas, hailed as Overall Champion after chipping in a total of 176 medals, 78 golds, 58 silvers, and 40 bronze in this year’s Intramurals Festival Sports Events, December 5-7.

Remaining kingdoms fell big

time against the Alphas, Unit II’s Red Cheetahs, 126 medals - 53 golds, 45 silvers, and 28 bronze, Unit IV’s Orange Tigers, 157 medals - 53 golds, 39 silvers, and 65 bronzes, Unit III’s Green Griffins, 130 medals – 18 golds, 55 silvers, and 57 bronze, settling at second, third and fourth place respectively. For Ball games, Unit one championed the following sets; Basketball Men and Basketball Women, 3x3 Basketball Women, Badminton Men, and Beach Volleyball Women.

Concluding the Track and Swimming tilts, Unit 1 fortified the champion trophies for Swimming Women’s Freestyle 50 meters, Backstroke 25 Meters, Backstroke 50 Meters, Butterfly 25 Meters, Butterfly 50 Meters, Medley 100 Meters Individual, and Medley 4x25 Meters Individual.

Meanwhile, although most of their board games representatives

Pinning down additional winning titles, Unit 1 also stole the limelight for Athletics Men 100-Meter Run, Women 200-Meter Run, Women 800-Meter Run, Women 4x400 Meter Relay, Women Shot Put, and Women Javelin Throw.

Under combat sports and execution, they were able to clinch the champion spots for both Arnis Men & Women Labanan 52 & Above.

Further amplifying the gymnasium, they once more took the lead after being hailed as winners for the Cheer dance competition

and overall champions for the Dance sport categories; American Latin and Modern Standard Alphas, Cheetahs, Tigers, and the Griffins vied roughly against 30 and more different sports events and categories including; Dance Sports, Ball Games, Board and Strategic Games, Athletics, and ESports.

“The College of Education is extending its warmest gratitude to the athletes and participants who represented our unit,” excerpt from a post of COED SEC, college of education’s official Facebook page.

Blue Alphas outdance Contenders in Dancesport

By Carah Mae C. Blanca

With glittered fits, hairdos, and seasoned moves, Modern Standard Dance representatives Mui Andrada and Je-Ann Lorraine Jason, as well as Jelai Belmonte and Jude Reniel Arante for Latin American Dances, overcame their competitors in the University Gymnasium turned into a great dance hall during the Dancesport events for the Intramurals Festival 2022, December 7.

Both pairs from the Unit I, known as the Blue Alphas, snatched all gold wins for Modern Standard dances quick step, tango, and waltz, and Latin dances cha-cha-cha, jive, and rumba.

Swaying after the hailed champions are the pairs from Unit IV, Maria Fe Espacio and Kevin Pabale, for the Modern Standard Category and Jun Dainniel Lanada

and Lawren Cabarles from Unit III for the Latin Dances events.

Meanwhile, Green Griffins Christel Palesterio and Gared Guia and Orange Tigers Lemarie Santibañez and Keeno Jed Lagura collected the bronze medals in the events Modern Standard and Latin American Dances, respectively.

Furthermore, awarded as 4th placers in the dance events were the representatives of Unit II, Lester Givera and Thea Marie Abaño, as well as the pair Jasper Buenafe and Elica Jopson in.

The aforementioned victories in the said dance competition by the Blue Alphas only added to their long list of gold brought back home as the team was later acclaimed for their back-to-back championship in Carlos Hilado Memorial State University-Talisay’s Intramural events since 2022.