First Term A.Y 2021-2022 Newsletter

NEWSLETTER

Volume VII, Issue 1 Oct 2021- Jan 2022

Freshman presents research alongside adept researchers

by Yerica Hannah D. Ramos

Among the group of teachers, professionals, and experts in the field of research who presented their research studies on zoom platform, Muel Mark Bueno, a freshman from Philippine Normal University North Luzon, put into spotlight his ethnographic research entitled “Investigating the Sawiri Culture of the Ilocanos at Brgy. Maluno Norte, Benito Soliven, Isabela: A Documentary Study” in the 3rd International Research Conference on Teacher Education and Indigenous Peoples Education on December 4.

“My main objective was to leave a factual record of the Sawiri cultural practice as it has a very high possibility of being extinct. Cultural preservation is an intricate and difficult task in today’s modern world, that is why as a student, I would like to contribute to the preservation of this Ilocano culture,” Bueno stated .

Traditionally, Sawiri is a condition in which a child’s or an individual’s navel/pusod line, which runs through the middle of the stomach, is inverted, displaced, or not straight; Ilocanos believe that this is a terrible sign which may cause the household’s married couple to have numerous conflicts and arguments, or that the child will become unwell or susceptible to illnesses resulting to Ilocanos frequently seeking the help of Sawiri healers to cure the condition.

Though an Ilocano himself, he admitted that he was

EMERGING PRIDE. Muel Mark Bueno presenting his ethnographic research during the 3rd International Research Conference on Teacher Education and Indigenous Peoples Education, December 04, 2021.

not aware of such practice until he engaged himself in documenting it for his research study where he utilized participant observation as his data-gathering method giving him the chance to practice the said ritual himself and breathe life into the dying culture of Ilocano in him.

Furthermore, the young researcher asserted that aside from helping individuals in understanding and studying cultures to improve knowledge of cultural heritage and ancestral domain, ethnographic researches could also aid in the development of instructional materials and curriculum revisions that could address the

Alma Mater applauds 2021 BLEPT passers

by Genesis M. Borromeo

MARK OF QUALITY. 40 passers from Philippine Normal University North Luzon on the September 2021 Board Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers conducted by Professional Regulatory Commission.

Out of 43 examinees of Philippine Normal University North Luzon (PNUNL), a total of 40 examinees of Elementary and Secondary Levels successfully passed the September 2021 Board Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers as released results by Professional Regulatory Commission on November 29, 2021.

PNUNL registered a 100% passing rate in the elementary level together with PNU Mindanao with two (2) and five (5) examinees passing, respectively. At the secondary level, the university registered a 92.68% passing rate with 38 passers out of 41 examinees.

Meanwhile, PNU Manila and PNU Mindanao registered a 100% passing rate in Secondary Level with three and one examinees, respectively;

and PNU Visayas registered a 71.43% passing rate with 10 passers out of 14 examinees.

Here are the new BLEPT passers in Elementary and Secondary Level from PNUNL in alphabetical order: Reginald Arongat, Niño Baldonado, Gyfthy Joshua Batungbakal, Rhomar Bumagat, Mae Ann Cabatbat, Alexis Calilan, Wyeth Calantoc, Heizel Cauilan, Alona Conception, Fritz Mark Corpuz, Julia Krizzea Cristobal, Hazel Joy Dela Cruz, Ronnie Dela Cruz, Ihrel Faith Domingo, Mae Ann Fernandez, Joseph Galabay, Sonny Ganon Jr., Aprille Lyra Gomez, Ginnie Rayvenne Gumaru, Vincent Hope Jimenez, Bryant Hinckly Leal, Kristine Lizardo, Marjo Daz Lorenzo, Heizel Mangisil, Mae Ann Miguel, Emma Naval, Jayson Olipas, April Padre, Mark Clemence Parcasio, Charmaine Joyce Pasion, Princess May Pingca, John Clyde Ranchez, Francis Jay Ramos, Joyce Ramos, Mariz Reforsado, Jefferson Rodica, Russell Rosendo, Andrew Sta. Maria, Almira Sapogay, and Marjorie Telan.

As announced by PRC, Elementary Level recorded a 55.96% passing rate wherein from 8,726 examinees, 4,883 passed consisting of 3,908 first-timers and 975 repeaters while Secondary Level accumulated 57.76% passing rate with 10,318 passers out of 17,863 examinees with 9,286 are first-timers and 1,032 are repeaters.#

needs of indigenous peoples for them to be equipped globally while instilling in them that they are heirs of rich cultures, aligned with the aim of the 3rd International Research Conference which is reinventing the landscape of education.#

Tuga delivers 2nd SUA, Mid-Term Report

by Lovely Jobhel O. Medina “PNU is represented by its people,” said Philippine Normal University President Bert J. Tuga on his 2nd State of the University Address (SUA) and Mid-Term Report when he delivered the notable achievements of the institution, faculty, and students amidst the challenge of the pandemic, via Facebook Live on December 10.

President Tuga presented the summary of the PNU system’s present faculty comprising 52.29% with doctorates, 33.94% under dissertations, 13.15% with masters, and the remaining 0.62% for thesis completion, which showed a 70.70% increase in Ph.D. holders from 2013-2021. Nevertheless, a more proficient faculty is eyed to improve each PNU hub’s competence by supporting 66 faculty members in their dissertation writing to increase the number of Ph.D. holders in the entire system to 70.35%.

Furthermore, PNU has signed 46 new and renewed agreements with national and international partners for linkages to bring capacity and competence. Initiatives in Gender and Development were also emphasized through GAD Codes with RA 7787 and RA 11313 as its supporting laws.#

2

NEWS

A de la n ba gs 3r d in National Speech Contest

Dr. Taloma busters fear on COVID-19 vaccines

by Erenio D. Baltazar Jr.

by Rewalsh M. Cornejo

Romar B. Adelan, IV-Bachelor in Physical and Health Education, added another feather to his cap as he landed Third place in the virtual national speech contest representing Region-II during the 4-H National Summit, October 27-29.

With the theme, “RISE of the 4-Her (Reaching Independence, Sustainability and Empowerment of the 4-H Clubs amidst the pandemic),” hundreds of 4-H club members representing various regions across the country convened virtually for the said event.

Adelan shared that the topic of the 2-minute speech revolved around the role of the 4-H club of the Philippines in the past pandemic recovery efforts in which he highlighted how the 4-H youth of the Philippines have provided new viewpoints, demonstrated entrepreneurial leadership, and mobilized new movements that have benefitted the country’s farm, fishing, and agribusiness sector since the pandemic started.

Moreover, he also emphasized how agriculture can be one’s lifetime passion and career, and that no pandemic will let a 4-H member become unproductive for the club strives to make the best things even better.

“My inspiration is the young Farmers who work hard just to bring food to their table. I want to be their spokesperson and be their voice. And more importantly, my friends and fam[ily] who were there mula [since] preparation hanggang [up to] competition,” Adelan said in the interview.

He also added that despite the pressure given as the last speaker of the competition, he was able to answer the question and deliver a winning speech.

Furthermore, the representatives from Region 1 (Ilocos) and Region 13 (CARAGA) placed first and second respectively in the said competition.#

NO MORE FEAR. A slide taken through screenshot during the virtual arrival of participants of the webinar conducted by the university’s Medical and Dental Clinic and Office of Student Services & Student Government.

Moreover,

“You have to check on the right sources to get the correct information,” Dr. Ma. Angelica

Cheese

Taloma emphasized while correcting the myths and

wherein sh

misconceptions about the COVID-19 vaccines as she

shared

shared her expertise on the webinar entitled, “Fearing

for

Taloma

Respiratory

shared

Virus

the

Pandemic

Swiss

Defense

believed that there are personal and

responsibilities

the

that

intervention

The

the Disease of the Vaccine?”, initiated by the Medical

Dr.

resource

must

against

be the

speaker

considered COVID-19.

also

enlightened

and Dental Clinic, Office of Student Services, and Student

the participants in regards to the phases of the

Government of Philippine Normal University North

clinical

Luzon Campus on October 13, via FB Live and Zoom.

of

the

trial,

vaccination

vaccines,

procedure,

responsibilities

Dr. Taloma said that the general public needs the

groups,

Emergency

so-called “Mythbusters” against the misconceptions

process,

and

Use

of

the

Authorization

vaccination

for

details

12-17

expert approval

years

old.

circling like the thinking that COVID-19 is a hoax;

On the other hand, Dr. Leticia N. Aquino,

vaccines are the way of government to profit; getting

Executive Director & Provost, put stress on the

vaccinated is more dangerous than getting the virus;

importance of getting vaccinated saying that this is

death will occur in two years after vaccination;

for everyone’s safety and protection against the virus.

anesthetics cannot be used to vaccinated individuals; and

Concurrently, Dr. Aquino mentioned the plan to

the vaccine is dangerous for it contains the virus itself.

conduct limited face-to-face classes in the university

She highlighted that vaccines prevent symptomatic

as she informed the participants that they will be

and severe infection as well as transmission, all

sending a letter to every municipality mayor where

vaccines in any brand can fight and prevent severe

PNUans live containing the request for the cooperation

symptoms,

of having the students, faculty, and staff vaccinated.#

and

experiencing

adverse

effects

is

normal and it’s the body’s response to the vaccine.

IP Hub initiates “Bags of Joy” Program once again

by Maricris S. Cariazo (IP) Month

To prov ide joy to the v ictims of c alamities

VOICE FROM NORTH. Romar B. Adelan delivering his speech as Region-II representative in a national speech contest initiated by 4-H Club, October 27-29, 2021.

,

C elebration,

the

“Bags

of

and resp ond to the public health emergenc y

Joy” project star ted last May under the

broug ht ab out by the C OVID-19 pandemic

Disaster

esp e cial ly to the IP community, Phi lippine

(DEAR)

Normal University Nor th Luz on (PNUNL)

The

faculty

once again prove d its identity as Indigenous

clothes,

foods,

Pe oples’ E duc ation Hub as it extende d its

donations

ser v ice

throug h

the

extension

Emergenc y Program

for

of

and

the

Assistance the

staf f

University.

gave

medicines, f rontliners

Relief in

kind

and

cash

and

those

program

who belong to the vulnerable communities.

“Bags of Joy ” to the Agta community at San

They also of fered food to the residents

Vicente, San Pablo, and C OVID-19 patients

of Santo Tomas who were infected with

at Santo Tomas, Isab ela, last Octob er 30.

COVID-19 since quarantine protocols did

Inclined with the Indigenous Peoples’

not allow them to go out and look for food.#

SG holds first General Assembly

by Frank Mark V. Cristobal Student Normal

Government

University

held

its

each

club

1st

General

Moreover, Aljin Andrie D. Martinez, the SG Vice President for Internal Affairs, presented the GPOA for the school year 2021 -2022 with the activities such as Student Cooperative Fund; Students Financial

of

Philippine

Assistance Program (StuFAP); Student Loan Program;

Luzon

(PNUNL)

Pahina: First PNUNL Virtual IP Museum; International

organize

Leadership Webinar; Bag of Hope: Extension project

(SG)

North

NEWS 3

Assembly

to

by

for elementary pupils; Edu Tools ni Pinyo; Bulong ti

almost 270 students on October 29, via Zoom.

Biyag: A leaf collection of traditional plants utilized

Following Article 7 Section 7 of the 1997

by indigenous people “herbolarios”; and many more.

and

organization

participated

PNUNL SG Constitution, the President may call

Furthermore, Jhunie A. Manzano, the SG Vice

a General Assembly in cases of major matters to

President for External Affairs, explained that any officer

be discussed and decided by the whole studentry

of the classroom cannot be an officer of any clubs or vice

(class and club presidents merged) or in event

versa, but if the student is an officer in a club, the student

of an emergency at least once per trimester.

should limit himself on being an officer in two clubs to

“The actual purpose of the recently concluded

give way to other students who also want to serve, as

1st General Assembly is to give the students a background on the Student Government—the nature

per Article 7 Sections 3.2 and 6, and Article 8 Section 1, 3 and 8 under the 1997 PNUNL SG Constitution.

of work of different offices in the three branches of the

The general assembly concluded with the open

government and constitutional commissions—which

forum containing the case for face-to-face classes

may soon interest them to be the next representatives of

that has not been decided considering the situation of

the studentry,” said Ariel N. Adalem, the SG President.

the vaccination and status of school among others.#

PNUNL launches 3rd IRCTEIPEd

by Maricris S. Cariazo To prov ide an avenue for presentation, discussion, and intel le ctual exchange of information on indigenous e duc ation, as well as to solve critic al e duc ational issues, the Phi lippine Normal University Nor th Luz on final ly launche d its first par t of the 3rd International Research C onference on Teacher E duc ation and Indigenous Pe oples E duc ation (IRCTEIPE d) yesterday, Novemb er 20 v ia Z o om.

The said conference was through the par tnership with Isabela State University, Saint Paul UniversityTuguegarao, and Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris- Malaysia, attended by more than 200 students, teachers across levels, researchers, research enthusiasts, and other stakeholders.

Dr. Edward C. Davis, a Professor at Af rican American Studies S outhland

C ollege Prep Chapter High S chool, Illinois, USA, and Jackson State University, Mississippi USA, the Keynote Speaker, discussed three themes which include: indigenous knowledge systems; indigenous language policies; and educational polic y that favors indigenous education.

“As educators, we have to give our students the necessar y tools for them to recognize their ancestr y and uniqueness of their ethnic heritage. Educational policies should not negate the society’s ef for ts; they should work to build up, maintain and support the ideals and goals of the greater society as a whole,” Dr. Davis highlighted in his speech.

Furthermore, the plenar y session was followed by panel discussions through breakout rooms to tackle different knowledge, practices, experiences on the 21st-centur y learning goals, and the present situation and innovations in sustainability-directed policies, pedagog y, and learning systems related to Indigenous Peoples education.#

NEW FLAMES. Newly positioned Board of Editors for the Academic Year 2021-2022.

Torch installs new Editorial Board members

by Joyce O. Acapuyan Publication staffs, the outgoing board of editors, and Prof. Josie Jordan G. Rosete, Torch’s adviser, appoint a new set of BOE for the academic year 2021-2022, September 30.

Meanwhile, Arian A. Roduta, the outgoing Editor-in-chief and English major senior, turned over the position to Yerica Hannah D. Ramos. Ramos is a junior in the Mathematics unit who has been a staff since her freshman year and brought pride to her university with her writing achievements.

Despite the prevailing challenges faced by the publication in this virtual setup, Ramos said it made her give more meaning in leadership as she takes over in managing the group.

“As the newly appointed Editor-in-chief of The Torch North Luzonian in these trying times, I will keep the ink flowing through each of our scribe’s pen by implementing interventions relevant to keep the publication working dynamically. This, I think, will not be that hard to accomplish as I see that my fellow writers possess that blazing fire within each of them. And together even when we’re apart, the group is capable of keeping the torch burning and illuminating its light to the whole PNUNL community,” she added.

On the other hand, the other new members of the board of editors are Erenio Baltazar, Associate editor; Celine Remocal, Managing editor; Frank Mark Cristobal, News editor; Jimuel Sagario, Features editor; Lovely Medina, Literary editor; Christian Bielza, Sports editor; CJ Ramos, DevCom editor; Redmond Naldoza, Cartoonist; Mike Mariano, Layout artist; and Diolo Dela Cruz, Circulation manager.

IPEd PILLAR. Attendees of the 3rd International Research Conference on Teacher Education and Indigenous Peoples Education, consisting of professors, students, and researchers, are participating on the photo documentation, November 20, 2021.

Congratulations, Torchees! Aluta Continua.#

4

NEWS

IATF permits LF2F classes in Tertiary Level

by Frank Mark V. Cristobal

Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) for the Management of Emerging Disease has approved Commission on Higher Education’s (CHED) proposal to allow limited face-to-face classes in all programs of universities and other higher education institutions (HEIs) provided that they are under Alert Level 3 and below, November 17.

Following IATF Resolution 148-G, based under the Guidelines on the Nationwide Implementation of Alert Levels System for COVID-19 Response, limited face-to-face classes are now allowed under Alert Levels 1, 2, and 3, subject to 3 certain conditions namely: fifty percent (50%) indoor venue capacity; no opposition from the local government unit concerned; and participation of fully vaccinated teaching and non-teaching personnel and students only.

Meanwhile, Executive Director and Provost, Dr. Leticia Aquino of Philippine Normal University North Luzon said in the activity “ZOOMustahan” that the university will be the center of vaccination for the students in preparation for the limited face-to-face classes.

“Alam nating lahat na [We all know that] the

EXCELLENCE of limited

CONTINUES. Selected face-to-face classes of

PNU students the university

attending a ceremony for during the second trimester

government is planning for limited face-to-face. So, mag-ready tayo [let us be ready] and we can just do that if everyone has been vaccinated,” Dr. Leticia Aquino said.

Moreover, Dr. Aquino stated that they will be announcing later on the date when to conduct the vaccination, particularly in the university, which will be accommodating all students regardless of their place.

Aligned to this, CHED pronounced about the implementation of “4-17 or 4-10 cyclical student shifting model” wherein under the 4-17 cycle model, students will attend 4 consecutive days of face-to-face classes on campus, and 17 days for flexible learning; while the 4-10 cycle method would require an equivalent number of days in campus but 10 days for flexible learning.#

Blessing of newl y built Inno Hub takes place

by Muel Mark L. Bueno

Dr. Carlino G. Santos, together with other faculty and administrative staff.

“This is a great innovation of the campus to provide better services not only for the students but to all our campus stakeholders on teacher education and Indigenous peoples education,” said Dr. Leticia P. Aquino.

EMBRACING INNNOVATION. Fr. Ramon Navarro of Our Lady of Atocha Parish leading the blessing of Innovation Hub School of Living Traditions and Indigenous Education Building on December 06, 2021.

After its 5-year construction and completion, the Innovation Hub School of Living Traditions and Indigenous Education Building of Philippine Normal University North Luzon was celebrated and blessed through a ceremonial blessing led by Our Lady of Atocha Parish Priest, Fr. Ramon Navarro, December 6.

The said ceremonial blessing was participated by PNUNL Executive Director and Provost, Dr. Leticia N. Aquino; Dean for Academics and IPED, Dr. Madonna C. Gonzales; OIC Director of Finance and Administration, Dr. Nicette N. Ganal; Guidance Counselor,

From its initial construction in 2016, the Innovation Hub was built in 2019 but extended to 2021 to finish its completion.

The four-story building was designed to provide better quality services as it will be used to accommodate offices and faculty rooms for faculty and administrative staff.

Moreover, the said building also upholds the identity of Philippine Normal University North Luzon as the Indigenous Peoples Hub as the building will also be the new home for future museums and conferences.

The PNUNL Innovation Hub School of Living Traditions and Indigenous Education Building is to be occupied by the faculty and staff next year, January.#

the commencement of A.Y. 2021-2022.

ZOOMustahan highlights students’ issues, concerns

by Frank Mark V. Cristobal

To address the issues and concerns of students with the aim for open communication between students and the administration, Philippine Normal University North Luzon (PNUNL) along with the Office of Student Services (OSS) headed by Dr. Carlino G. Santos and Student Government (SG) headed

by Ariel Adalem, conducted an activity entitled “ZOOMustahan” with the theme, “Kumustahan sa Bagong Kadawyan. Ikalawang Sagwan!” via Zoom Meeting, November 17.

“Kinakailangan nating mag-isip ng ganitong programa para kahit papaano ay makumusta natin ang mga estudyante, mga kaguruan, at mga opisyales na nandito at magkaalaman po tayo tungkol sa mga concerns natin para kahit papano ay maibsan or masagot ang mga daing ng mga estudyante tungkol sa kanilang pag-aaral,” said Dr. Leticia Aquino, the Executive Director and Provost. [“We need to think of such a program so that we can somehow check on the students, faculty, and officials who are here and learn about our concerns so that we can somehow alleviate or answer the problems of the students about their study.”]

Some concerns highlighted by the students were about the scheduled time for synchronous classes, deluge of activities or tasks, submission of requirements, review for non-BLEPT Stars, slots for scholarships, and other matters, including the concern in planning to conduct the limited face-to-face classes in the university. #

opFORTUNE FORTUNEnistic Politicians are just classy opportunists. Not everyone but some of them. Political campaigns and the anticipated needs of voters will never be a good complement to each other; when this happens, you are either genuinely helped or unconsciously manipulated for their political agenda hiding beneath the toxic surface of the political arena.

This is the time, mostly every two, three, or six years, where we will witness these gods come out of their houses and start to smile angelically. Their words that are too good to be true will once again enter our ears. Those soft palms will touch the callous ones and those pedicured toenails will kiss the mud of rice fields.

The time has come where gods with the demigods will step down from their comfortable thrones– now that typhoon Odette slaughtered the Visayas and Mindanao region, the challenge is not just in recovering from the casualties but to distinguish the parts of the political campaign from parts of genuine relief purposes.

It is stated on the constitution that the qualifications for an aspiring president are natural-born Filipino; a registered voter; must be able to read and write; 40 years of age at the day of the election; and must have resided in the Philippines ten years before the election is held.

It was not said that they need to be a social butterfly, to try hard in making good impressions, to falsify their backgrounds, to have high popularity, or to show off but as part of human nature, we appreciate the things we perceive as beneficial more than things of the opposite; leading some of us to be blinded and persuaded by the things that have nothing to do with serving the people nor leading the country.

The opportunistic side of some gods during their relief programs is a no-brainer. It is possible to see their faces on the packaging of every good. It is possible to see their political color on their volunteers’ shirts. It is possible to see pictures of them handing down the relief goods, walking on the damaged areas, talking to the public officials and residents, and even sacrificing to go to the dangerous sites for the so-called inspection.

The political arena is slowly turning into a circus show where its approximately 67 million audiences, based on Commission on Elections as of November 16, are not enjoying nor laughing yet have any choice but to stay and wait for the next clown to start another show.

Calamity reliefs are just one of many avenues they exploit for exposure. It is a hard pill to swallow that every need and situation of every Juan dela Cruz is a way

for them to leave their mark, if not a scar against their political rival before Election Day starts.

Belonging to the growing 30% of voters, the students needing educational assistance are baited by politicians in the form of cash, gadgets, or school supplies; to some extent, they even donate educational facilities or utilities with their name carved or printed on them.

It is funny to think that the educational philosophy “the more senses engaged, the more you remember things” is used in campaigning– the more you see, hear, or encounter the things associated with a particular candidate, the more it remains on your mind; political paraphernalia contributing to plastic use, motorcades increasing virus transmission, loud jingle on the road disturbing the people around, and posting online causing unhealthy debates.

Additionally, farmers’ hardships are highly noticed this time; a promise to alleviate the farmers’ situation is a piece of music in our ears. However, these politicians grew their grey hair sitting in various positions in politics yet never listened to cracking voices from the rice fields.

People of poverty are convinced by their deceiving sympathies. The lines “Tulad niyo, galing din ako sa hirap” & “Laki ako sa hirap” along with suitable facial expressions are their ways of tricking the psychological aspect of easily swayed and tricked Filipinos– chained, suffering to the lowest part of the society’s triangle.

EDITORIAL 5 enjoying double standards, spending the wealth they do not own, and other unjust actions coming from them.

We need to step up our standards. It is sad to see that we have high standards in beauty pageants but not in politics. If we can put so much pressure on our candidates, then how come that we are settling for less when it comes to politicians?

If we have time to call out celebrities then why do we remain silent when it comes to the mistakes of politicians? If we have time to check the grammar of social influencers then why can’t we check and verify facts about politicians?

It is time to change the perspective towards us, voters, that all we need are flowery words to be persuaded. This is the point where we must look at what they have done with or without calamity and the rise of needs. This is the part where we must assess the things they can offer on the table. This is the era where we should break this long-existing ill of our society because we are not just voters but game-changers.

Remember that we are voting to have leaders to serve and lead us not to have leaders to serve themselves and lead us to the drawbacks of their leadership. Our privilege to vote is also our right to demand what we deserve; a single shout may not be heard but our collective whispers are loud enough to amplify our demands.

The fortune of the country must not be entrusted to

The general public is left hoping for the promise that these politicians are uttering even if they already heard it from other politicians in the past political campaigns two to six years ago. It is a neverending cycle of Philippine politics.

Yes, we are benefitting from some of their programs but do they see us as their beneficiaries, or do they see us as mere campaign materials? Are they offering genuine help or are they just putting an investment for their political standing for future purposes?

Some may say that we must not generalize them. It is true, there are still politicians who have pure intentions but how many are there?

The past made it fossilized into the minds of Filipinos that in politics, it is rare to see nor to distinguish the concern for the community and concern for self-interest.

This connotation we have towards Philippine politics will never be erased as long as public servants are

opportunists. After all, you’ll never know if you are either genuinely helped or unconsciously manipulated for their political agenda hiding beneath the toxic surface of the political arena.#

6

COLUMN The Next Fair Lady

by Yerica Hannah D. Ramos

London Bridge is falling down, falling down, falling down.

London falling down,

Bridge my fair

is lady.

While the surface of this wellknown children’s song appears cheery, and its game being played alongside other children’s games, beneath it lurks a menacing shadow that few people are aware of. The song’s origins may be traced back to the far side of middle ages when its words were significantly different from what we know now.

According to Alice Bertha Gomme, author of “The Traditional Games of England, Scotland, and Ireland,” people at the time believed that burying a human body inside the bridge would strengthen it and keep it from collapsing; this sacrifice, known as Immurement, is thought to be the fair lady whom the players trap and eliminate in the game.

Regardless of its notoriety, the majority of people opt to cross it. As the days pass, we are getting closer to loan-don; this is how most preservice teachers envision their future careers as educators. I frequently hear people who have already arrived saying that they are stuck on the bridge, preventing them from going anywhere else. These days, I’m wondering if it has anything to do with the expression “Walang yumayaman na teacher,” which we frequently hear.

Like the looming shadow of this fun melody is the dismantling reality behind modern society’s capitalism.

In a world where money is regarded as the God of all commodities, financial literacy emerged as a concept outlining one’s capability of securing a thriving life. Money, the universal reifier of ideas, self, and emotions, has crafted its way to becoming the blood of the society circulating along the linkages of people. Money generally

keeps the system functioning.

Thus, mishandling it could lead to issues in one’s stability in life.

The news of three public school teachers being shot in the area of a school in Pangasinan shook the nation in 2014. The shooter turned out to be a loan shark enraged by their failure to pay their obligation. For decades, the vicious cycle of debt has been a part of the career path of teachers, leading to the development of a “culture of loan.”

According to a survey conducted by the Congressional Commission on Education, 24% of teachers set aside half of their gross income for loan payments, while 28% lose at least 25%.

By 2019, the total accumulated debt of teachers in the Philippines had reached a staggering P319 billion, surpassing the combined budgets of the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, Air Force, and Navy.

Teachers, according to a study of “spending patterns,” are more likely than other government employees to over-borrow. Consequently, retired teachers who have not paid off their loans utilize their pension to make up the difference. According to the Department of Education, 26,000 teachers were denied retirement benefits in 2016 due to the requirement to repay their loans.

As a result of new salary standardization laws, public school teachers’ salaries have grown many times in the last decade. A movement towards the gradual rise of salary of

teachers is foreseen. Unfortunately, like DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones, I believe that widespread and severe financial illiteracy in the sector is a major reason, and this issue remains in oblivion.

literacy, the nation has a greater challenge in filling the gaps in Filipinos’ financial management skills.

In light of this, AAMBIS-OWA Party-list filed House Representatives Bill 9058, also known as the Savings Financial Literacy is paramount and Investments Act of 2021, which to modern society’s financial climate. intends to educate the Filipino youth It is the element that helps people about financial literacy before they build a solid foundation for success as step to senior high school and college. it provides them with the knowledge Furthermore, under DepEd and skills essential in managing money Order No. 022, Series of 2021, the effectively. Its underlying concepts include budgeting, saving, taxation, Department of Education issued its investing, borrowing, and debt Financial Education Policy, which and financial management among aims to assist learners as well as others. Nothing is wrong with loan, teaching and non-teaching personnel mortgages, and borrowing, as long as in making sound financial decisions balance and responsible management by making Financial Education is observed. Do not buy something an integral part of school lessons that will drag you down and trap you and activities for students, as well in a deep financial quagmire; instead, as providing opportunities for borrow and invest teaching and non-teaching personnel develop their capabilities. for things that will to pay off in the long Different sectors and institutions run and lead you are launching tiny initiatives to to greater heights. improve financial literacy among In a broader Filipinos in general. As pre-service sense, according to teachers, the very least we can do Standard & Poor’s today is open our eyes and minds (S&P), barely 25% to these programs, as well as of Filipinos are take responsibility for financially financially educated, educating ourselves. This will not with over 75 only make people’s lives better; it million unaware of will also boost national development insurance, inflation, because economic growth is fuelled or even the notion by people’s financial security. of savings accounts.

Several individuals, including Only 0.1% of the population is teachers, were blindly buried in from the top class, whereas almost the underpinnings of loan-don a quarter of the population is from bridge, making it unclear when they the middle class. This demonstrates would reach the other side. These the country’s alarmingly low people, ensnared in a capitalist level of financial literacy, which society’s debt trap, were sacrificed relates to other challenges such for the benefit of the rich, bolstering as poverty, mental health issues, the foundation of their selfless and hunger, among others. ambitions. Financial education is It is the most crucial literacy the only way out of this situation. not taught in school. Although It is our duty to break the vicious saving is now taught in educational cycle that has buried teachers for institutions and at numerous decades by gearing ourselves up with conferences, policymakers should financial skills as the next teachers consider enlightening individuals in line so that we can financially on how paying off existing debt will equip the succeeding generations help them generate more savings. as well… Otherwise, you will just However, given the data indicating become the next fair lady in line.# that teachers are also lacking in this

Honest, Open, and Peaceful Elections (HOPE) - this acronym was used by the Region XII Commission on Elections as a campaign for “clean and honest” elections sometime in the early to mid-1990s. The national elections in the Philippines are days away, but this is certainly close enough for prospective candidates to finalize their preparations and look for aspects that may impact their candidacy and likelihood of winning or losing especially now when it appears that many of the country’s political parties are clashing on topics that might determine the outcomes on May 9, 2022, HOPE will now be our goal.

The COVID-19 problem would have an impact on how elections are normally handled, which is why COMELEC is planning different options since many experts estimate that the pandemic would not stop until 2022. The commission stated that if required, the election may be held over two or more days and that other form of voting may be used to carry out the 2022 elections, which is a constitutional mandate, to protect the safety of the voters.

The country needs a peaceful transition of power to the next lawfully elected president now, maybe more than ever. An electoral scandal or controversy is the last thing we need

right now. We deserve a clean and credible election that can preserve our democracy and lead to stability, opportunity, and economic progress during and after the pandemic.

Many of us, as voters, are no longer in the dark about issues affecting our nation, especially in an era when infinite knowledge is available via an expanding number of media channels. Thus, we must already be paying attention to significant details about how these politicians deal with the issues confronting our country to avoid repeating the mistakes we made in terms of our choices because these choices can mean the difference between poverty and economic progress, as well as competent governance and abuse of authority for personal gain.

It is up to us to determine our country’s future. We urge all eligible voters who have not yet registered to vote to do so and use their voting rights. Voting is the ultimate manifestation of people’s power in a democracy, the power that can bring

+63 916 118 0418, how dare you?

by Celine Jade C. Remocal

Someone texted– a family crisis, it says. So as a worried “family member”, you immediately sent money.

Or I bet you get random text messages, saying you won monetary prizes or offering you jobs and exclusive deals— who wouldn’t want those things? So as a gullible person, you gave them the information they wanted in exchange for the thing you’re expecting to receive.

And you’re now just waiting for their reply. It was too late until you realize that you were scammed.

Many victims report to authorities, but what can the authorities do?

It was untraceable. They could

take note of the phone numbers, but it would do nothing, not until the time will come when the President finally signs House Bill No. 5793— Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Card Registration Act. It was wise for the House to pass the said bill but would it become effective in the Philippines?

Who would’ve thought that cybercrimes via Short Message Service (SMS) are still prevalent in this modern world, where online platforms are already the trend? According to Statista data from 2019, there were approximately 169 million mobile subscribers in the Philippines, and approximately 15,944.8 had been victims of such schemes— the numbers rampantly grow until today.

Not only individuals are swallowed by the fraudulent messages but also businesses and other sectors that use SMS as a mode of transaction, apparently, another reason why this bill was proposed— due to bogus orders in food delivery services, bogus buyers and sellers in small businesses, and messages from the fake financial services sector.

COLUMN 7 HOPE: Aim for 2022 elections

by Maricris S. Cariazo about the biggest transformation for our country that we have always desired. Although the integrity of our electoral system may be called into question by others due to the frequency of flying and deceased voters, vote-buying, and other irregularities, we hope that all of us registered and will vote during the elections.

hear and read, “We’re all in this together.” We must all contribute our fair part to the collective effort to win the 2022 elections because the success of deserving candidates is also our victory as a country.#

Let us not forget that it is not up to a single Filipino to protect the country. If we do not get involved in our country’s struggle, if we do not elect honest and competent officials, if we do not contribute to ensuring an honest, open, and peaceful election, we will not have helped to the resolution of our country’s issues and will be more of the same as the corrupt and incompetent politicians who are eager to reassert their grasp on power at any cost. As we often

As a student, I think it would be nice for the Philippines to expand its sight on adopting measures that can deter illegal activities on the platform as it starts to get alarming, that even I, a mere student, have been receiving these kind of messages. If I’m not enlightened of such cases, I could become a victim. How much more for our working students that have been conned by some fraudsters?

To those individuals who benefit from their victims’ hardships, how dare you? The money that your victims earned with their sweat and sacrifices is not worth falling on your arms by making them ignorant– snatching it from them in the first place is not even acceptable.

To the people who find happiness joking about family matters saying that something bad happened, how dare you? Imagine the panic, anxiety, and shock that your victims felt that time you clicked that send button.

To these unjust scammers and bogus buyers, how dare you? The tears and frustrations from the food delivery drivers and online sellers are the proofs of your devouring misbehaviours.

You are milking these poor victims! You might say that you too, are in need or you just want to have fun and that is why you did those.

However, your reasons will never be a valid excuse for you to cause a crime.

To put an end to such unlawful

actions, the Philippines could follow the footsteps of over 150 countries that have implemented mandatory SIM-card registration laws. Personal information such as full name, date of birth, gender, and address are to be asked, and for complete verification, a valid identification with photo should be supposedly presented.

As regards the risk of breaching privacy, a confidentiality clause prohibits the disclosure of any information on a subscriber unless access to information is granted with the subscriber’s explicit authorization, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) will be receiving updates from all Public Telecommunications Entities (PTEs) and direct sellers of prepaid and post-paid SIM cards semi-annually.

Passing the House bill 5793 ‘Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) Card Registration Act’ means one step forward to achieving total security of the populace.

This will assist authorities in tracking down individuals who utilize mobile phones to engage in fraudulent online operations. If this bill will be approved, frauds and scammers will be in jeopardy.

SIM cards will no longer become a medium of anonymity to commit crimes. Yes, we are still vulnerable to these crimes but our initial response as victim will greatly shift from “how dare you?” to “who are you?” and that is a great leap for our assurance and safety because after all, a crime of any means must not have a place to exist nor triumph.#

8

FEATURE

Tight Grip

by Yerica Hannah D. Ramos

Errands. Butchering. Cooking. Cleaning. Laundering. This is how Angelica Baymosa, a 21-yearold English major student at Philippine Normal University North Luzon, spends her days in the new normal away from home as she strugglingly pulls the rope tied on the peak of her mountain.

While most people would say that their lockdown experience taught them a lot of things they did not know about their families, enjoyed eating at the dining table without hurrying, did recreational activities, slept until 11 am, and the like, Angelica is left with the memory of that period crying at night and patting herself to sleep with the hope that all of her struggles will soon pay off as she achieves her dreams of lifting her family out of poverty.

Since senior high school, Angelica has paved her way to study and provide for her family. Before lockdown, she would not go home after a weeklong learning in the university. On weekdays, she would work as a student assistant; and after her last class, she would immediately hop into the bus to set off on another journey as a maid on the weekend. This is where she gets an allowance for another week to survive in the university and at least set aside some for her family. She worked as a maid, caretaker, cleaner, laundry woman, and whatever work it is from which she can take home even just a single coin.

However, as the threat of the pandemic started to linger around the corners forcing classes and other social activities to be halted, she was compelled to face the battle headon. She had to flee home and travel to Santiago city the moment it was announced in March that lockdown will be imposed in Luzon leaving her stuck there working herself to the bone and burning eyebrows for over a year without her family, all for the sake of pursuing her education.

During the lockdown period, she gets up at 1 a . m . (yes, 1 a.m.!) to chase down the meat and by-products supplies that she will sell that day; this is how her day usually begins. After successfully picking up their products, she will then sell them in the local market, where customers queue early in the morning.

She would return home at 11 a.m. to cook for her aunt’s household who covers her school expenses and pays her a weekly wage of 500 pesos.

In the afternoon, she manages her time to study and do tasks around the house she lives in.

She uses her old phone, which appears to have its tessellation pattern, to do quizzes, examinations, and even listen in synchronous discussions while selling chicken in the market—a good view, indeed. Fortunately, she was one of the university’s lucky students who received a gadget as part of Project Tanglaw.

Angelica was able to buy her parents a “kariton” for their corn harvests grown on a little plot of land they own, which also houses their bamboo hut, with the money she earned.

Sometimes, she cannot help but feel pitiful as she stands in the middle of the market looking at people passing by, mostly the same age as her, laughing and looking beautiful with their casual outfits and toting a few bags of goods they buy for themselves while she stands there looking raddled, reeking the smell of meat, and wearing worn-out clothes.

At those times, Angelica felt like she was on the verge of giving up her aspirations and focusing only on working to support her family. Disillusionment sets in, and she began to question whether she has the right to walk the road most people her age walk on when all of them already have that road paved for them while hers remains scribbled on thin paper hoping to go to the same destination as them-- success!

Despite that, she continues to wake up at 1 a.m. every day and do the same routines over again- chasing supplies, selling them, cooking, cleaning, and laundering, among others, in hopes that at the end of the day, she receives a load for her classes and a 500 pesos salary in a week.

The desire to fund her schooling while also providing for her family has led her to work as a housemaid for other families. The challenges she is encountering, albeit difficult for her, are the factors that cause her to tighten her grip on the thin rope she has been clutching her entire life to reach the summit of the mountain she has chosen to climb.

“Education is not a privilege, it is a right, but mostly, it is a choice.” This is the mantra Angelica holds for years of being a working student who, even being aware of her right to education, has to work herself to the bones to have a tight grip on it.#

FEATURE 9 Prepped by the Culture

by Vera Jewel C. Lacerna

Resembling the immense mountainous terrains of Mountain Province that stood tall in the face of raging storms, the indigenous people inhabitants are much alike in facing the unseen foe that has brought our life to a halt.

While the rest of the country rumbled with the outbreak of the SARSCoV-2 in 2020, Mt. Province was one of the few places that remained unaffected by the virus until June of the same year. For the indigenous people in Bontoc, the capital of Mt. Province, it wasn’t alchemy nor superstition that helped them through, but the culture and traditions that are inseparable parts of their being and were passed down to them by their ancestors.

While most cities nearby had their officials and police to secure the travel of possible carriers of the virus, the Bontoks’ primary protection comes from the twigs of a tree called tikem, which will be chanted with prayers by the elders and tied on the entrances of the municipality. Once the twigs of tikem are visible on main roads, this will signify that tengao officially starts the day after- it is the indigenous way of a lockdown.

L ockdowns are no longer n e w t o

them since it’s been around long before the burst of the pandemic.

For a day or longer after the lockdown began, no one will be allowed to enter or leave the village. Moreover, quarantine decisions also depend on the agreement of the council of elders.

This Bontoc IP quarantine practice is otherwise known as Te-er, a compulsory rest day imposed by the elders during the chono festival or the elaborate feast of merit among the Bontoks. It is not just an ordinary rest day but a sacred one because they value integral fragments of human beings such as the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of wellness. In addition to its intended purpose of controlling plague and sickness, this indigenous practice regulates their way of life for agricultural cycles and conflict resolution.

Another game-changing tool for them in battling the pandemic is the execution of Menangtey which is a ritual used to appeal to the anito, or ancestral spirits, for a sick person locally called mangaswak, accompanied by a feast of chicken and pig meats. A smaller version of this ritual using and serving only chicken and salted meats is the man-manok. It is referred to as chao-es when accompanied by gong playing. Then, the fire is left burning for several days or until put out by elders in the burner of dap-ay as a protective charm against the virus.

The Bontoks do not consider having limited access to hospitals to be a big issue because they have a strong belief in the teachings instilled to them, in what has kept the older members alive until now, and in what they want to continue until the end of time—their priceless identification of culture and tradition.

It is no questioning that the indigenous people in Mt. Province, not only in Bontoc, will progressively conquer the virus, even with the advent of novel variants, not only because they are one with nature and led by their deities, but also because they are the bearers of diligence and compliance. That alone makes them deserving of being the Magitings, the brave individuals that they are, in sustaining their lives even with the pauses in the normal world. #

On the Heels of his Red Boots

by Carl John U. Ramos

A vaccination center usually has a fatiguing and monotonous atmosphere with people waiting in line, barely making a sound with grains of sweat falling on their faces, and feeling anxious as they stare at the needle penetrating their skin. However, the vaccination center of San Mariano was suddenly transformed into a runway fashion show when Fernando Pitacio Jr., otherwise known by his drag personality he named Luzviminda Extravaganza, arrived. He turned heads as he showered the place with glitters in his show-stopper drag look while in line to get his first dose of the vaccine.

In 7-inch red boots, Fern, a Junior Physical Education student of PNUNL, brought Luzviminda Extravaganza into life and transformed the vaccination center into a stage. He walked the famous lava walk leading to instant entertainment for the people. The healthcare workers were surprised yet ecstatic at the same time. Thanks to Luzviminda, it was apparent in their faces that they had a sort of escapism and release from draining and toilsome work all day long in a dull atmosphere.

Recently, Fern was featured on the morning show Unang Hirit and in 24 oras for his unique and optimistic take on vaccination. He said on an interview, “Ginawa ko po ito para hikayatin ang mga kabataan, pati na rin po ang matatanda na magpa-bakuna.” It’s part of his advocacy to encourage people and inform them of vaccination’s importance, especially during this pandemic. Affirmations flooded his social media accounts for showcasing his advocacy on national TV. In light of the growing skepticism towards vaccination, he hopes that his glamorous acts would recalibrate and enlighten the individuals who are shunning the vaccine. “Marami pa rin po ang hesitant na magpa-bakuna, kaya I thought of a simple way of showing people na hindi po siya ganun kahirap. We should get vaccinated, para samasama na po tayong makausad sa pandemyang ito,” he intently said while holding his poise and composure as the drag queen he was born to be.

Aside from advocating for vaccination, this 20-year-old PE student emphasizes that while physical health is vital, it is also essential to acknowledge

that mental health is a serious matter and not a hoax. It has been the recurring theme of his drag performances online. He believes that this pandemic has brought both micro and macro challenges to people that have taken a toll on their mental health. For this reason, he uses his platform to entertain people as they stay home and inspire them with his simple gestures.

Fern is the exact manifestation of Pinyo.

He is not just an active student in class; he also an engaged citizen amplifying voices and educating people. It proves that we could not just find a silver lining in these dark times; we could be that silver lining. Being his authentic self, he scattered and radiated light on tedious places and caused a ripple of positive campaigns. Vaccination is a right. However, Fern recognizes it more as the world’s gravitational force towards its normal state. He hopes that normalcy comes on the heels of his red boots. On top of that, he vowed to continue making every corner of the street his runway in pursuit of fostering sensitivity, nurturing awareness, and advocating for good causes, pandemic or not.

C o n t i n u e making us proud and celebrating, Fern!#

i s

Banana Leather: A Trendsetter

by Muel Mark L. Bueno

For the sake of capitalism, humanity has made some exemplary breakthroughs; however, accompanied by these innovations are extreme consequences. From changes in the ecosystem, global warming, environmental degradation, animal cruelty, and extinction, various industries have their part of the blame, and sadly, this is still evident nowadays. We see people wearing their OOTD’s, flexing their excellent fashion sense on social media every day. Little do they know, the products they wear daily actually impact themselves and society.

Let’s talk about one of the classic and timeless materials used in bags, designer jackets, and furniture — leather. Leather has always been able to incite one’s sense of fashion and lifestyle. It is undeniable that leather is fascinating, from the style it carries and the variety of expressions it can deliver to culture. Wearing this ageless fashion trend would probably put one in the spotlight, but at what cost? Did you know that producing most leather products requires a complex procedure requiring animal skins? Furthermore, although some leather manufacturers falsely advertise their products as “eco-friendly,” the process of turning skin into leather also demands massive amounts of energy and hazardous chemicals, such as mineral salts, formaldehyde, coal-tar derivatives, and various oils, dyes, and finishes, some of which are cyanide-based.

Workers from leather factories are regularly exposed to these various kinds of harmful chemicals. Using leather products also allows your skin to touch material made from the skin of animals and then processed with countless earth-harming chemicals until it’s soft and supple to the touch. This texture, which may have felt heavenly, comes with a costly price — one’s health, environmental degradation, and animal abuse.

Is there perhaps a way to be fashionable without having these consequences? Fear not, because there is, folks. With the help of the mind of innovative and creative designers, leather, which once has needed complex and harmful procedures, can now be eco-friendly while being stylish at the same time. Meet the environmentallyfriendly counterpart of leather, banana leather.

Made from 100% natural fibers of banana plant stems, banana leather is a great alternative for your fashion needs

without the problematic consequences brought by classic leather. Banana leather production is extremely resourceefficient, it is renewable, widely available, and no additional water or land is needed for its production. No animals are required to be killed or abused in its production, and banana leather products are durable, waterproof, and long-lasting.

The only organization to have been said to produce leathered banana stalk products in the Philippines is San Mariano Handicrafts. The Banana Leather was brought into life as part of the different municipalities’ One Town One Product program. Located in San Mariano, Isabela, San Mariano Handicrafts is committed to making leather products with unique, elegant, and long-lasting designs for their customers and has actually exported their products to Japan. They also joined exhibits and trade fairs in the country, namely Manila Fame, The Design and Lifestyle Event back in November 2016, and the Sikat Pinoy National Arts and Crafts Fair in April 2017.

With their back-to-back achievements, the LGU of San Mariano takes pride in their various leathered products ranging from bags, baskets, origami decors, lanterns, lampshades, wallpapers, and even Christmas lanterns for the yuletide season!

Since bananas are a local product and a staple in the locality of San Mariano, residents of the said municipality, especially out-of-school youths and farmers, were able to find an alternative livelihood in the form of banana stalk processing. Once processed, these banana stalks are then used as a raw material for banana leather. It is not just ecofriendly; it has given people jobs and, more importantly, hope.

“Nangrugikami idi year 2015 nga nag-training sadiay LGU San Mariano ket nakatulong daytoy iti panginaldaw-adlaw nga mausarmi iti inaldaw-aldaw nga biagmi ken napag-iskuwelami nga nasayaat dagiti annakmi,” said one of the banana leather processing workers.

[We started in the year 2015 training in LGU San Mariano and it helped us provide for our daily needs and we were able to afford schooling for our children.]

Banana stems, which were earlier regarded as agricultural waste and nuisance for farmers, are now raw materials for good quality and eco-friendly fashion material, worthy of recognition. It is a trendsetter, indeed.

Humanity has done some extreme things in the name of fashion. But with the influence of fashion, it has also been able to do things that continue to inspire people not to be afraid to try new things and make things for the betterment of society.

After all, in fashion, new ideas are gems, and if they benefit the community, they are diamonds.#

Century’s Subway Tunnel where Light Awaits

by Carl John U. Ramos

A world without transport is a world incapable of progress. Transportation has always been an integral part of society; it keeps things moving.

Since time immemorial, people have come up with various ways to move from one place to another efficiently. It’s because the lack of adequate transport can inhibit economic development due to constraints that limit opportunities.

In both developing and developed economies, transportation continues to play a crucial role. If transport infrastructures are properly connected, it enables a conducive environment fostering economic growth.

In the Philippines, it is undeniable that traffic has always been an issue in transport.

One major reason for this problem is the low or poor public transportation in the country. You would always hear the people’s clamor about how congested the road is when commuting, especially in Metro Manila.

It’s not new when an employee uses the “Sorry; I’m late. It’s because of the traffic” card when faced with an angry boss at work. Traffic delays people’s work, and it directly affects the economy of the country. With this kind of setup on public transport, everything is slowed down making it harder for the economy to thrive.

To solve this problem, the government launched the “Project of the Century: Metro Manila Subway” under the “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure program. This worldclass underground transit is promised to be the major mass transportation breakthrough in the Philippines. This is a highly-anticipated and the most ambitious project that could finally improve public transportation in the country.

The railway line will span 36 kilometers with 17 stations connecting critical areas within the capital district starting from Valenzuela up to Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3. A lot of people might ask, how much would this project cost? The first-ever subway system in the country costs approximately Php. 357 billion, and it was funded by loans from the Japan

International Cooperation Agency (JIRCA).

With the use of Japanese tunnelling technology, the Metro Manila subway is made to be disaster resilient that can withstand natural calamities like earthquakes and floods. Aside from this, the first subway system of the country will also use an automated platform screen doors with the same technology used in the Japan Subway system.

Having a speed of 80kph, the subway will pass through seven local government units and three business districts for only 30 minutes. Workers from the said location will greatly benefit from the construction of this subway. They wouldn’t have to worry about getting stuck in traffic and being late for work anymore. The amount of stress and hassle to be relieved because of the construction of this infrastructure would be ineffable, not just for them but for the whole community.

The subway has a design capacity to accommodate 1.5 million passengers a day and is expected to serve 370,000 passengers a day in the first year of its operation. The groundbreaking for the project was held in Valenzuela City in February 2019. While the project is estimated to be complete in 2027, it will start its partial operation during the first quarter of 2022.

Moreover, the plans to establish a subway for Metro Manila date as far back as the 1970s. It was first proposed under the Urban Transport study in the Manila Metropolitan area.

For decades, the construction of this infrastructure has been merely a dream. But now, in just a few months, the experience of the Filipinos in public transport will forever be changed once it starts running this 2022.

The first part of the subway project is expected to improve the transportation system, the quality of air in different cities, and the productivity of Metro Manila. Moreover, it will lessen the two billion economic losses of the country every day because of traffic.

“Join us in riding t h e

tunnelboringmachineandridingthefirstPhilippine Metro Subway. Our journey towards success starts here,” said Department of Transportation (DOTR) Secretary Arthur Tugade in his speech during the groundbreaking for this project.

This generation might be the witness of yet another Golden Age of infrastructure in the country. The project of the century is just the beginning of it all.

The Metro Manila Subway promises comfortable public transportation for Filipinos.

Under the unfortunate circumstance we have been experiencing, this project gives hope to the community, something that we can look forward to. As this project opens this upcoming year, Filipinos will ride in this subway, thinking there is a light at the end of the tunnel.#

12

LITERARY

At a Distant Place (A Letter to Him)

By: Wendel A. Andres

By: Amanda

On an unfavorable one-time encounter She was lost in the dark; on her way, he made her blind Made her deaf, stuck in a world screaming silence Muted as she was treated like nothing- a lifeless soul

Dear You, Did you ever think that you could go to a distant place? Or did you ever think that both of us could?

A place where it’s just you and me; a place where we can indulge ourselves with the cool breeze of serenity; a place where we can be what we want to be and do what we want to do; away from the scrutinizing eyes and judging looks of the crowd. ‘Cause if you were to ask me, I’d say I want to. No, scratch it. I would love to.

I love to stroll around at a distant place with your hands clasped in mine, gazing at each other’s faces with our imperfect curves painted on them.

Not here where we would throw each other’s arms whenever people would stare at us.

I wanted to be with you at a distant place where we are free to wrap our arms with each other all night and wake up with the bare scent of our garments.

Not here where our love is concealed in friendship to conform to the patterns of this world.

Tragic as it may seem that all of these are just hopeless dreams.

I was left with this wistful longing as you found your distant place with someone else.

You have chosen to be with someone you no longer have to run away with.

The place where you found the comfort and tranquillity you once sought with me.

No more discerning eyes, no more cloaks.

I hope you’re happier now, my love. It’s time for me to find our distant place on my own.

No, scratch it. It is no longer ours. Yours was around here all along.

Love, Someone from a distance

Back to Life

A light, when finally awakened, She gazed at him with eyes full of untold pain, One day, that man will be in torment, A downfall: eternal pain, endless predicament.

Her lethal stare felt painful and piercing, That man will suffer the striking truth of the whip she enduringly kept Her piercing eyes on the man’s ribs, the sharp point digging him deeper With uncomfortable void, filling it with emotion—raw anger And from her gaze, accompanied by deliberate slow breathing, Like she was fighting something back and loosing She was able to kill that man through a dreadful vision, Final light, she was dead but comes back to life.

Take it Or Leave it By: Apotheosis

After the glee, comes the misery, they say A nimble break is needed to shun a phase astray A fortress amid this absurdity called life An elixir to forget all of our bitter strife Well-deserved vacation yet bombarded with tasks later on When can we ever rest if this is our current situation?

Juggling work, education, and personal conflicts amid this pandemic Peace amidst this chaos, they say, take it or leave it Student by day, servant by night The school works, mischief, tracks of failure did not bother to leave my sight Reminding me to take what you may yet don’t look back as you go This phase isn’t something that you can quickly outgrow Pressure makes a diamond, they say Yet when trouble comes my way, it is easier to run away Thoughts of restlessness never left my brain Uttering phony motivation to mask away from pain A concept of peace that somehow cloaked my twisted realities A plea for relief doesn’t seem to shorten my long list A walk on air seems to bring me to the brighter side To be able to fly like a dove endlessly ‘til both worlds suddenly coincide Calm as the breast of a lake when the loud wind lays Although puzzled with the sudden twist and turns of this life, a maze These small victories, life lessons that are worth celebrating Take it or leave it there will never be in between

Fifth of the Four By: Eren Five individuals are smiling on the framed picture.

There are four gift boxes under the Christmas tree, four identical family shirts, four Christmas hats, and four chairs around the table right before the eyes of the fifth member.

"Only four plates are on the table? This is the third Christmas that they forget to count me in." says the pale young lady.

"Yes, and this is the third time that I am fetching your soul after the accident." said the angel standing behind her.

There are five smiling individuals on the framed picture... but there are only four gift boxes under the Christmas tree, four identical family shirts, four Christmas hats, and four chairs around the table right before the eyes of the fifth member.

Pedestrian

by Lovely Jobhel O. Medina

Rushed footsteps crossed the streets after the red signal flashed in a minute interval. At the ends of the pedestrian lane, two pairs of black orbs met and smiled. Both coincidentally wore polo shirts and khaki shorts while holding a toy; a fire truck, the other a police mobile.

An abrupt feeling of thrill surged as unspoken words of promises made their way in each other’s eyes, aspiring to be honorable rescuers of society. They formed stories of adventure as they played face-to-face on each side of the street. They didn’t even notice that the green light had turned red once again as rushed footsteps filled the pedestrian. The bus had also stopped, blocking each other’s sight.

A minute of eagerness changed into confusion as the green light came and the bus moved forward. One of the kids felt glum losing his playmate. With blaming eyes, he looked back at the bus. There, two pairs of black orbs met again. The little firefighter straightened his back as his mother firmly held him in place. He raised his fire truck which was eagerly followed by a police mobile. Then, both gave their salutes with genuine smiles.

There was a flashed one-time encounter. No words. No goodbyes.

COMICS

13

Artwork by:

14

SPORTS

ni Leidi Julienne M. Pagulayan May pag-asa pa bang iahon ang unti-unting lumulubog na kahapon o hahayaan na lamang itong lumipas tulad ng hindi maiiwasang paglubog ng araw tuwing pagsapit ng dapit-hapon?

Sumisilip na naman ang kahel na kalangitan. Hudyat na ito ng paglabas ng mga anino ng mga kabataang malayang tumatalon. Nagsimula na ring tumagaktak ang pawis na malayang umaagos sa magkabilang gilid ng kanilang mga mukha. Higit sa lahat, hindi na mabura-bura ang ngiti sa kanilang mga labi at bungisngis kapag nakita ang kalarong muntik madapa. Iyan ang kadalasang litratong makukuhanan mo sa mga kabataang sabik na sabik sa mga larong Pinoy sa gilid ng mga kalye o ‘di kaya’y sa mga abandonado at maluwang na bakuran ilang taon na ang nakalilipas. Ngayon, tila lumulubog na ang pag-asang masilayan muli ang ganitong mga eksena tulad ng paglubog ng araw sa tuwing sumasapit ang dapit-hapon.

Ngayong kasagsagan ng pandemya, may pagkakataon pa ang bawat isang ibalik ang nakasanayan at bumalik sa dating nakagawian. Kailangan lamang buksan ng bawat isa ang kanilang puso’t isipan. Narito ang sampu sa maraming larong bumubuo sa mga makabuluhan at makahulugang larong Pinoy. Basahin ang mga ito at unti-unti niyo muli itong kilalanin, kilatisin, tangkilikin, at mahalin: Patinterong nakalilito- Naalala mo ba noong hindi mo alam ang mas mainam?

Kumaliwa o kumanan? Sa iyong paligid, kabi-kabila ang harang. Binabalot ng kamay na mahahaba ang pagnanais na ika’y matapik, mahawakan, at hindi pakawalan.

Sa bawat paghakbang, ang tanging layunin mo ay hindi makulong at maikahon.

Malampasan mo lang ang mga bumabakod na kamay, tiyak na ika’y magtatagumpay!

Sa Piko, huwag kang mapipikon- Handa na ba ang pangguhit na tisa? Iyong kulay puti ay uubra na basta’t maguhitan ang konkretong daan. Ngayon, kumuha ka ng bato bilang iyong pamato. Ibato ito sa tamang numero. Huwag mapikon kung hindi sumakto ang pagbato! Lumundag ka patungo rito gamit ang isa mong matibay na binti. Minsan, kaliwa ang nakataas at minsan ay kanan naman. Tibayan lang ang loob tulad ng pagpapatibay ng binti upang makamit ang minimithi.

Tagu-taguan maliwanag ang buwan- Pagkatapos ng sampung bilang ay tiyak na nakatago na ang lahat. Isa… Dalawa… Tatlo… dapat ay nakapagdesisyon ka na kung saang lugar ka magtatago. Apat… Lima… Anim… siguraduhing maski ang iyong anino ay nakalihim. Pito… Walo… Siyam… huwag kang humalakhak kung ayaw mong mahanap. Sampu… simula na ng hanapan at kung ikaw ay mamataan, ikaw ang susunod na maghahanap sa mga nakikipagtaguan.

Tumbang-preso sa kanto- Bumili ka na ba ulit ng bago mong Beachwalk? Dala mo rin ba ang walang lamang lata ng kondensada? Tawagin mo na ang mga tambay sa kanto at patumbahin ang latang nasa loob ng iginuhit na bilog sa paligid nito. Diskarte ang puhunan upang mapatumba ang lata. Magtiyaga hanggang tumama at tumumba.

Sungka at pagtatangka—Pumulot na muli ng mga bato sa bakuran.

Ipunin, bilangin, at isilid ang mga bato sa bawat maliit na butas ng sungkahan na gawa sa mahogany. Dalawang bahay ang magtutuos at magtatangkang tapusin agad ang tapatan. Paramihan ng naipong bato ang labanan na siyang kailangang iuwi sa malaking butas na siyang tinaguriang bahay na lagayan.

Luksong tinik na nakasasabik—Sa kalkuladong buwelo at sa matinik na paglundag, tiyak na walang papalag! Malampasan lang ng mga manlalaro ang pataas nang pataas na kamay o paang tinaguriang tinik

nakasasaksak,

paniguradong

makakamit

mo

ang

huling

halakhak.

Sa Tiyakad, bawal lumiyad— Kilala ito ng marami bilang larong “Kadangkadang”. Ingatan at bilisan ang paghakbang, para ang kabila’y hindi lumamang.

Madalas itong ginagamitan ng isang pares ng bunot o hindi kaya’y dalawang poste ng kawayan. Huwag kang liliyad upang hindi mawalan ng balanse at iwasang ang paa sa lupa’y sumayad. Paunahan ang layunin at tagumpay ay makakamit!

Saranggola kasama si lola—Malayang bitawan sa ere ang likhang saranggola at kusa nitong hahanapin ang sarili sa malakas na hangin ngunit magtira lamang ng hawakan upang hindi tuluyang kumawala ang saranggola. Ipalipad nang ipalipad kasama si ate, si kuya, si tito, si lolo o si lola. Pataasan man ang mithiin ng nagpapalipad, sa bandang huli, ang tuwa at galak pa rin ang nangingibabaw kahit saan man ito mapadpad.

Langit lupa, bumaba taya —Huwag kang bababa, kung ayaw mong isumpa ka ng taya. Humanap ng mataas na puwesto, at huwag kang bababa para hindi mabisto. Umakyat ka sa pinakamataas hangga’t hindi ka makalabit at mahablot ng nasa ibaba. Ika nga nila, ang mga nasa itaas ay tinaguriang “the untouchables.”

Sipa! Sige, isa pa—Bolang gawa sa yantok o iyong nakagawiang pinisang maliit na piraso ng bakal na may katiting na hibla ng plastik?

Kahit saan dito ang gamitin, basta’t ang layunin ay hindi mahulog. Paa, tuhod, braso, siko o maging ang ulo – mga bahagi ng katawang doble kayod para makaisa at upang hindi mahayaang mahulog ang bola.

Maaaring paramihan ang labanan upang hindi ka maging talunan.

Ngayon, naaalala niyo na ba ang kahapon? Mayroon ka bang mga alaala sa paglalaro na matagal nang nakakahon? Iahon mo na ang baul ng kahapon at muling makibahagi sa iba’t ibang larong Pinoy para imulat ang susunod pang mga henerasyon. Idinaraos ito ng kabi-kabilang mga torneyo at paligsahan.

Malawakang pagsasagawa ng mga aktibidad ang maari ring lahukan. Mayroon ding mga programa noon pa ang itinataguyod ng iba’t ibang organisayon na maaaring tangkilikin hanggang ngayon. Ilan dito ay ang programang Larong Sports Pinoy, Sports Clinics ng Magna Kultura Foundation, at Larong Pinoy Mini Olympics. Ngayong pandemya, hindi malayong magtagpo muli ang landas ng mga kabataan at ng mga larong Pinoy. Limitado man ang pisikal na pagdaraos ng mga programa dulot ng pandemya, malaya pa rin itong isagawa sa loob o paligid ng mga tahanan at bakuran. Nawa’y ang susunod na ikukuwentong karanasan ng mga kabataan ngayon ay ang karanasan nila nang muling tumapak sila sa kalye, bakuran, at maging sa kanilang mga tahanan matapos muling yakapin ang mga larong Pinoy. Higit sa lahat, nawa’y mapagtanto ng bawat isa ang kahalagahang nakakubli sa pagtangkilik ng larong Pinoy – ang kasiyahan, pagkasabik, at higit sa lahat, ang mayamang ugnayan nito sa kulturang Pilipino at sa iyong identidad bilang isang Pilipino. Hindi mawawala ang pag-asa hangga’t buhay ang kulturang Pilipino.

Ang bawat paglubog ng araw ay may katumbas na paglitaw at pagbangon nito kinaumagahan mula sa matagal na pagkakahimbing. Hindi kailan mang nawala ang larong Pinoy. Mahaba-haba lamang ang panahon ng pagkakahimbing nito. Kailangan lamang itong gisingin at ang interes ay mas palalimin. Sa pagsasagawa ng mga ito, paniguradong maiaahon pa natin ang kahapon!#

SPORTS 15

Off the saddle

CODM Norte suffers 3-0 loss against Enigma Aces

by Dan Lester L. Estavillo

by Christian Joseph B. Bielza

E D I T O R I A L

During the severe threat of COVID-19, contact sports activities were immobilized in the country and even in the local communities to prevent the spread of the disease. This situation opened a floodgate for the cycling community to boom in every road as substitute sport. In April to June 2020, interest in cycling in the Philippines grew dramatically from 503,720 to 1,477,860 if google searches are to be the basis. However, immobilization of contact sports may be useless in preventing the spread of the virus if huge pluck of cyclists were congested in an area where rides and illegal races were operated.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and Department of Health (DOH) both touted cycling as a good form of exercise for all ages in lowering the risk of lung and other cardiovascular illnesses by 46%. This may prove that pedaling a bicycle may armor ourselves in battling the unseen enemy – the COVID-19. But still, experts also pointed that keeping ourselves away from the crowd is the best thing to prevent the dispersion of the virus, a thing that neophyte cyclists will never do when they are on the road.

In addition, facemasks were seen by health experts as a protective gear against the virus, and so everyone must abide with the existing regulations including the cycling community. They can be protected from the disease but may die due to suffocation. To address the problem, some municipalities and provinces allow cyclists and bike commuters not to wear facemasks while riding their bikes. Now, let their cardiovascular fitness alone protect them from the existing COVID-19.

Looking at the other context, a growing accident rate on cycling accelerated during the threat of pandemic. According to the Metro Manila Accident Reporting and Analysis System (MMARAS) Annual Report by the MMDA-Traffic Discipline Office-Traffic Engineering Center (MMDA-TDOTEC), the number of bicycles involved in road accidents doubled from 2018 to 2020. In 2018, a total of 1,627 bicycles and pedicabs figured in road accidents just in Metro Manila and doubled to 3, 026 in 2020. Of those, 36 were fatal, 2,067 caused nonfatal injuries, and 923 led to damage to property.

The record manifested a negative effect of the ascending number of cycling community not just in the health but also in the safety of every individual because of the pandemic excluding those bike mishaps due to unpermitted races on the public roads.

Every individual must instill to their mind that their health and safety is very vulnerable during these times. In fact, the immobility of some activities particularly in the field of contact sports can help to end the threat of pandemic.

While we are developing our health and fitness through exercise, we should also battle and beat the unseen foe by staying at home where we can be safe and protected.#

ONE SHOT, ONE KILL. CODM Norte of PNUNL secured the spot as finalist in the PNU Sulo Esport’s Call of Duty Mobile esports championship match.

CODM Norte of PNU North Luzon failed to collar the first-ever supremacy bid in Call of Duty: Mobile Tournament after Enigma Aces of PNU Mindanao scored a 3-0 sweep during the CODM Finals of Palakasang Normal sa New Normal Esportsfest 2021 - Undergraduate Division, November 24 streamed on PNU SULO -Esports Team Facebook Page.

Enigma Aces’ players Duboo (Khris Mick Rojas), iHide (Khris Matt Rojas), Zra (Ezraleen Malupa), Rai (Jerrah Calamba), and Lumpia (Mullier Gallentes) subdue CODM Norte as they sealed full domination on Multiplayer: Search and Destroy mode with 10-0 core in three consecutive rounds.

PNUans partake in Virtual Intrams ‘21

by Dan Lester L. Estavillo Identified PNUans were awarded as they had taken part in Philippine Normal University North Luzon’s Virtual Intramurals 2021 and showcased their athletic prowess in various sports contested activities with the theme: “Connect Online for the Virtual Intramurals Day CHALLENGE; #BeMotivatedBeActiveBeFitAtHome” via Zoom meeting, December 7.

In the Group Dance Fitness competition, OBTEC NL-5 pocketed the championship title as they swayed their exquisite performance of “Ginintuang Pagpadyak,” leaving the judges in awe; while OBTEC NL-4 took the first runner-up and II- Bachelor of Filipino Education copped the second runner-up seat.

Marc Andrey Domingo, the team leader of OBTEC NL-5, shared how pleased and proud he was of their accomplishment when they saw the finished product of their dance version and received favorable feedback from their classmates, judges, and virtual audience.

“Sobrang daming struggle sa preparations, ang daming hindi makasali dahil sa mga restrictions dahil sa pandemic. Nagpa-practice kami through Google meet kahit hindi kami mag kaintindihan minsan, ‘yung planning para maganda ang kalabasan ganon puro online. ‘Yung meeting place ang daming plano talaga kasi sobrang hirap humanap ng tamang lugar para sa shooting ng sayaw,” Domingo added.

[There are a lot of struggles on preparations, and many were unable to participate because of pandemic restrictions. We practiced using Google Meet, even if we didn’t always understand another, and we did all of our planning online. Even when it comes to meeting places and video locations, there was a lot of debate because it was difficult to determine the best location for our film.]

On the other hand, the Fourth Year Team reigned supreme on IP Dance Fitness Competition with their soul-reviving version of “Montañosa”, while III-BSSE grabbed the first runner-up title and III-BECED bagged the second runner up seat.

Meanwhile, other PNUans exhibited their sports competence and physical exercise proficiency as they reigned supreme in their respective events on individual categories. Awarded PNUans on Lead Up Games and Fitness to the Test are follows: Lead Up Games On Volleyball

The all-women CODM Norte fighters composed by Ashura (Michaella Millan), Jahziee (Jahzel De Leon), Ms. Leigh (Leigh Dumelod),Winter Blue(Myca Ruiz) admitted they are in disadvantage during finals as teammate Anxria(Andrea Bulan) was absent due to sickness.

With CODM Norte championship performance, Michaella Millan, CODM Norte Team Captain, remained grateful as they reached finals match-up and served an intense game to their rivals in the tourney.

“Kahit natalo, we gained friends from other places and napaka-valuable ng experience na to sa akin and hopefully next year makasali ulit kami ng team ko.” Millan added. [Even though we lost, we gained friends from other places, and our experience was valuable to me. Hopefully, we will be able to participate in the competition again next year.]

On the other hand, STRESS ESPORTS from PNU VIisayas notched Mobile Legend Bang Bang Tournament crown while Virtual Assassins from PNU Mindanao took the first runner-up title.

The Palakasang Normal sa New Normal Esportsfest 2021 was spearheaded by Philippine Normal University with the Center for Culture and Sports Development (CCSD), PNU Torchbearers: Varsity Club, and PNU Sulo Esports Team as one of the highlights of PNU 120th founding anniversary.#

Keep it UP event, Junelle Uriel Dulay of OBTEC NL-3 took the

champ crown, Ace Lalangan of II-BSSE came first runner up and Geilyza Pagatpatan of II-BECED settled for 2nd runner-up.

On Table Tennis Control It event, Charimae Sebastian of II–BSSE hailed champion while Lyka Yvonne Reyes of OBTEC NL-3 and Juvilyn Del Rosario of OBTEC NL-2 occupied the first and second runner-up title, respectively.

With the game in the court, Ronwel Jay Gandia of IIBECED hauled the champ title ruling Basketball 1min. Shoot Out, Bob Dangilan Jr. of II- BSSE garnered first runner up while Julius Caesar Sadio of OBTEC NL-3 obtained second runner-up title.

On Elbow Plank event, Julius Agcaoili of II- BSSE earned the golden seat, while Audrey Cortez of NL-5 and Clayde Adarme of II-BSSE won first and second runner-up title, respectively.

On Hoola Hoop in a minute competition, Princess Elyza Roxas of III-BSE declared champion after outsmarting competitors and Margelyn Lelina Lumanglas of II-BEE held first runner-up while Maynard Feliciano (OBTEC NL-3) notched second runner-up.

On Jumping Rope in a Minute event, Manilyn Tindungan of II-BSSE hailed champion while Eljoi Berna Acdang of OBTEC NL-5 secured the first runner-up and Ivy Manibog of III- BME bagged second runner-up title.#

iSPORTS CONNECT. PNUNL presents the official poster for the 2021 university virtual intramurals.

16

SPORTS

Blue Shar ks secur e 3-peat victory in PEMS Big Battle 2021

by Junelle Uriel B. Dulay

[“As a leader, I always carry the phrase, ‘if you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail.’ I don’t want to go to war unarmed. First, I identified every skill of all the members who is inclined to a competition, so we will no longer have difficulty to plan and to compete. Secondly, we determined the resources we can use, such as props, costumes, budget, and sleeping. Also, the availability of each member to be cast in a specific competition. Lastly, mental preparation. It’s hard to synchronize acads (academics) and all, but with the help of mental preparation, we accomplished everything. We had to set our brains and thinking in different tasks and pour all we could. ‘It’s all in the mind,’ as Madam Doinx always says. Through the years, it has been proven that the commitment and burning desire of the blue sharks to win is not lost, I think that is our best preparation before competing in the LB.] Additionally, Luno also expressed his overwhelming happiness after successfully defending the title 3 consecutive times and said that they are aiming to achieve a four-peat victory in the next edition.

OCEAN WARRIORS. Reigning champion, Blue Sharks fiercely strike their winning pose after dominating the recently concluded local battle of the PEMS.

Garnering a total of ten gold medals, Blue sharks successfully repeated history after outperforming Red Dragons and Yellow Tigers in the recently concluded 26th edition of PEMS Local Battle, paving their way to achieve an impressive three-peat win, last December 13.

PEMS Local Battle is a PEMS Club annual event in which three major teams, Yellow Tigers, Red Dragons, and Blue Sharks, participate in various competitions, by which blue Sharks have dominated for the past three years. This event also creatively showcases the different talents and skills of PNUans, particularly PE majors.

Blue sharks clinched the top spot after winning 1st place in ten (10) events: Mr. Local Battle (Remo Ulysses Aduca), Netflix inspired Poster, Battle of improvised instrument, Mobile Legends tournament Boys and Girls Category, PEMS advocacy video, PEMS Art face painting, Mask e-design, PEMS Phonetography, and tiktok dance competition (Alumni).

Red Dragon, on the other hand, took 2nd place after winning six gold medals, including Ms. PEMS Local Battle in the person of Monique Jamaeca Moral, Quaran-Cheer 2.0, Quiz It (Battle of Brains), Spoken Poetry, and two consecutive wins in Hip-hop Competition and Zoomba battle.

Meanwhile, the Yellow Tigers came up short,

finishing in 3rd place, having won three gold medals in the Ms. Gay Local Battle owing to Ronald Agbayani, 3in1 HatawOne, and the PEMS music video.

Moreover, Blue Shark’s leader, Charlie Luno revealed their team’s preparations, as well as the challenges they encountered in their campaign at the PEMS Local Battle.

“As a leader, palagi kong bitbit ang katagang, ‘if you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail.’ Ayokong sumugod sa giyera na walang dalang sandata.

First, inalam ko muna ang bawat skill ng lahat ng members, para kung sino ang inclined sa isang competition, hindi na kami mahihirapan to plan and to compete. Secondly, inalam namin ang mga resources na maari naming magamit, tulad ng props, costume, budget, pagtulugan atbp.

Gayundin ang availability ng bawat members para mai-cast sa specific competition. Lastly, mental preparation. Mahirap pagsabayin ang acads and all, pero with the help of mental preparation naisakatuparan namin lahat. Kinailangan naming i-set ang utak at pag-iisip namin sa different task at ibuhos lahat ng aming makakaya, it’s all in the mind sabi nga ni Madam Doinx. Through the years, napatunayang hindi nawawala ang commitment at burning desire ng blue sharks para manalo, I think yun ang best preparation namin before competing in the LB,” he shared.

On his final statement, Luno shared their team’s secret to success, “I believe that success comes from the second letter of the word itself. It’s the letter U (you). Sarili, tiwala sa sarili. Walang iba ang mas magaling pa at gagaling pa sa sarili mo kundi ikaw rin mismo. Napili akong leader, then I will be the leader, I did my part and best kaya kami nag-champion. Hindi lang din naman nakatuon ang aming success sa akin, kundi sa bawat effort at sacrifices ng bawat isa sa amin.

Nagpapasalamat din ako sa aking mga miyembro at kasama sa walang sawang suporta at paglalayon na manalo. Napakasuhasay at talented ng lahat; wala na akong masasabi pa. We fought as one.”

“I believe that success comes from the second letter of the word itself. It’s the letter U (you).

Self, self-confidence. No one is better than you but you, yourself. I have been chosen as a leader, and then I will be the leader. I did my part and best so we became champions. Our success is not only focused on me but every effort and sacrifice of each of us. I am also grateful to my members and partners for their tireless support and determination to win. Everyone is so talented; I have nothing more to say. We fought as one.”

Furthermore, they shared that some of their motivations in keeping Blue Sharks on top was their desire to send off their seniors as champions and show gratitude to the unending support of their alumni as they assure that the culture the previous batches have left will continue to live on and so does the consecutive championship of the team.#