The Trailblazer Magazine - Volume 39 Issue no. 1

Editorial Board & Staff

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Eriel Indira R. Albarece

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Britney W. Banaag

MANAGING EDITOR - FINANCE

Catherine S. Guegue

ASSOCIATE MANAGING EDITOR - FINANCE

Charbie H. Balistoy

PUBLICATION SECRETARY

Lady Trisha D. Salazar

ASSOCIATE PUBLICATION SECRETARY

Karen Crystal B. Paler

NEWS & SPORTS EDITOR

Brian Jay B. Vallejo

FEATURES & SCITECH EDITOR

Rissa S. Trazo

WRITERS

News

Ryan L. Ga-as

Michelle L. Salvan

Vic Anthon T. Jaudian

Erika Jane M. Llanes

Joel S. Budlao Jr.

Kyle Remuel P. Ohil

Sports

Cejay Dianne C. Domo

Dannah D. Polinar

ARTISTS

Layout

Llane Graceza B. Benting

Keziah Lei A. Andong

Cartooning

Angela D. Balsomo

Mikylla Miedge Virtudazo

About the Cover

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Ryan Rashed O. Dongiapon

ASSOCIATE CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Gerson John P. Salvacion

HEAD, LAYOUT & GRAPHICS

John Michael B. Reita

HEAD, PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY

Mikhail Christian B. Gallana

HEAD, SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT

Jan Karl Malone C. Pague

PUBLICATION ADVISER

Dr. Ramir Philip Jones V. Sonsona

PUBLISHERS

Students of University of Science and Technology of Southern

Philippines - Cagayan de Oro

Features & SciTech

Hannah Karyll G. Insong

Masheil Rose Dango

Louisse L. Achacoso

Irene Augustinni C. Basa

John Nicholson L. Vuelban

Graphics

Neon Martin A. Abuyo

Photojournalism

Mary Elizabeth E. Gomora

Videography

Prexie Caangay

The societal anxieties and irrational fear associated with clowns were suppressed when most people transitioned to a circus-based culture as a result of public’s acceptance of impulsive trickery. The more the tale of foolishness spread, the more apathy and naivety permeate our very existence. While we are reluctant to address many pressing issues that affect us, it has long been sarcastically noted that we adore the tricks of Philippine circus. These stage acts, however, rely primarily on illusion and deceit, which is not something that should be taken lightly. In this one-sided historical comedy, we consistently come out on the losing end.

Words: Brian Jay B. Vallejo

Cover Design: Mikylla Miedge Virtudazo

Circulation: 1,000 copies

Editorial \ 4 Too Much for Too Little: A Ratio of Excess to Scarcity

Column \ 5 Filipinos’ Political Awareness: Too Dumb to Notice

Tiger Hello Kitty of the North: Delivering the Bare Minimum

Success Obsessed: When Enough Becomes Too Much

The Mask of a Student Leader: Uncovering the Hidden Narratives

News \ 8 PH faces surging high inflation amid New Normal

IT students victorious in Asia Digital Challenge 2022

USTP YouthMappers qualify as delegates for Int’l Summit

Crime incidents cause uproar among Cagayanons

Newly Elected FSC-USTP Executives unite to represent campuses

Trailblazers emerge triumphant in MASTS 2022 Outstanding Trailblazers shine in Kahamili 2022 OSA recognizes new student organizations

Rampage \ 12

Cover Story \ 14 Threading Through the Tightrope

National Feature \ 16 Scenes from the Comedia

SciTech \ 17 Tolerated Stolen Shots amid Digital Threat

Identweety Crisis: A Blue Bird’s Quest

Entertainment \ 19 Peculiar Pellicule: Top 5 Student-Relatable Movie Characters

Sports \ 20 PH Women Football Team: From Underdogs to World Cup 2023

Smashing the Tides: The USTP Badminton Team’s Voyage

Pamugas \ 24

For comments and suggestions, contact us at:

trailblazer.publication@ustp.edu.ph

for too little: A Ratio of Excess to Scarcity

Being the school that comes in third standing in the 2022 Northern Mindanao University ranking, the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines, as prestigious as it stands, may not always have the luxury of adding more students to its enrollment; given the unprecedented lack of classrooms and facilities, and the ongoing construction thereof.

The aspired “dream school” of many has experienced a massive influx of hopeful students, eager to take advantage of the quality education offered by the university. Although impressive with its academic credentials and pandemic initiatives such as load and gadget assistance, the indefinite acceptance of incoming students and the inadequate educational infrastructures to cope with the sudden surge of enrollees pose several challenges. One of which is particularly the reinstatement of continuing students from the online curriculum, resulting in overcrowded classrooms as well as deficient laboratory equipment and amenities. This directly challenges the institution’s ability to offer learners a sufficient face-to-face education experience.

If there is a silver lining, it is that the change from pandemic to epidemic led to the full reopening of the university. Yet, freshmen who yearn for a full physical learning setup

must once more be compromised to make room for the upperclassmen due to resource deficiency which presents a difficult challenge as students must adjust to flexible modality and bear the associated increased costs. Although the university has taken necessary steps to make online learning as seamless and engaging as possible, it is still a far cry from the conventional physical learning environment— and the university administration is certainly not innocent in this state of affairs.

lead to misconceptions, suggesting that the university is more concerned with the student quantity, rather than the education quality that could be expected from the supposed learning setup of the university.

With 16,000 enrollees this academic year as per the University Registrar, the university’s positive intention on continuous accommodation of new students despite the scarcity is unfortunate for the learners who have chosen to enroll and have anticipated for the face-to-face learning, only to be redirected online and to hybrid learning. The decision to increase enrollment despite its shortage might

With its steady growth in enrollment over the past few years, the administration has had to work to accommodate the increasing density of students. The expansion of classrooms, laboratories, and other facilities needed to handle the larger student population must be implemented efficiently to sufficiently keep up the needs of the growing student community. The institution has to ensure that the learners are provided with access to inperson classes within conducive classrooms, and that necessary resources available should be allotted to accommodate them. It is time for the university administration to take further essential actions and acknowledge that the students should be provided with a quality education without compromising their right to experience the intended educational setting.

Only then can USTP truly uphold its reputation as one of the prestigious institutions that many learners dreamed to be part of; as the university’s shortfall to provide its students with a promising environment for education is a reflection of what should be improved to aid students’ success. For now, it’s a ratio of excess to scarcity—too much for too little.

Too much

Students can still realistically expect the university system to deliver what they want with so few classrooms available—perhaps?

Filipinos’ Political Awareness: Still Too Dumb to Notice

Several leaders have been ignored due to the public’s incapacity to look past the winning candidates’ principles, names, and popularity. As if it was foreshadowed, last year’s presidential bets were popularity contests based on personalities. Professional boxer Manny Pacquiao, former actor Isko Moreno, and Ferdinand Marcos Jr., son of the former

dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr., are some of those who used their fame and family ties to their advantage during the elections. On top of that, actor Robin Padilla and broadcast journalist Raffy Tulfo led the previous senatorial polls compared to the other parties with their platforms and professional backgrounds. By all accounts to lure the public, charisma and general appeal are prioritized over policy agendas and track records. Voters are based more on names than political objectives.

Moreover, political preferences can be influenced by a myriad of factors, one of which is social media. Despite the range in ages and whether media literate or not, this generation uses social media extensively. Due to media illiteracy, individuals frequently believe in misleading articles and videos and are hence, prone to false information. Consequently, more than 300 accounts supporting a candidate’s campaign were reported to be suspended by Twitter in January 2022 after they were found to have violated the platform’s spam and manipulation policies.

The phrase Ignorance is bliss conveys that not knowing something unpleasant is sometimes better than learning and worrying about it. However, it is never bliss since it can result in poor choices, wrong actions, and horrible outcomes that can negatively affect

people’s quality and quantity of life.

With this dilemma, The Commission on Higher Education and the Commission on Election should collaborate to carry out widespread voters education in the institutions so that they will be fully informed about the candidates they prefer. Other government and non-government organizations must participate in spreading voter education to a broader audience. Moreover, COMELEC shall establish a policy outlining the procedures for electoral surveys, propaganda, and candidate rallies to educate voters more thoroughly.

By all accounts to lure the public, charisma and general appeal are prioritized over policy agendas and track records.

Society has to defend freedom in a democracy, and voting ensures an accountable government carrying the people’s will. However, things are unattainable if the majority still have to deal with their political assessment crisis.

have observed a hissing kitten acting in a way that makes it easy for a poacher to take advantage of it.

Having recently been elected to the highest office as the 17th President in a country ruled by multiple political dynasties, one that has long struggled with corruption and other irregularities, Marcos Jr. continued his father’s legacy while ushering in a new age of government, underlining his objectives and goal for a rapid recovery from the pandemic and better life for Filipinos.

Press Club, Marcos stated that establishing a “functioning” government was his greatest accomplishment during his first 100 days in office. It is astonishing to observe and ironic at the same time that despite having a functioning administration, the public is still unable to perceive any concrete progress toward resolving many relevant issues such as the worsening impact of the inflation rate across the country.

With more than 31 million voters supporting the late dictator’s son in administering the country’s recovering state, the odds of taking back the moniker of Tiger of Asia during his father’s tenure may be high, perhaps? Four months after winning the election, we have yet to witness a roaring tiger with a fang that expresses leadership and unity; instead, we

The golden period, however, is still far off because it seems that all Marcos has managed to do in the past 100 days—aside from frequently being seen outside the country despite the ongoing crisis—is put out the fires that his own government’s factions have started and attended various sporting events. His team, conversely, denied the contentious tour and insisted on its goal and purpose. He may have returned with pledges from his state visits to neighboring Southeast Asian nations, including $3.9 billion from the United States and $8.5 billion each from Indonesia and Singapore. However, since these are only pledges and could still be withdrawn, we have yet to reap the rewards of these investments.

In an address before the Manila Overseas

Marcos’ lack of haste in resolving vital and pressing issues may put many low-income Filipino families at great risk. Meanwhile, few of his promises have been made public, however, many of them are still unfulfilled. In these trying times, what we need is a real alpha king, not a fake, cowardly kitten playing the role of a strong and courageous tiger.

Being at the top of the food chain, a tiger rarely leads a pack of wolves, which is unique yet scary.

Charbie

Success Obsessed: When Enough Becomes Too Much

Every student once yearned to be admitted into a prominent school in the Philippines. An institution where you can thrive for your future and a place that will aid your growth. What if after much pressure from school expectations,

The Mask of a Student Leader: Uncovering the Hidden Narratives

In the fight for student representation, university organizations and their student leaders are often the frontlines in voicing the needs of the student body. However, what may seem to be genuine leadership can often be masking a hidden agenda, leaving students without a true advocate.

University organizations are responsible for providing students with the necessary resources to succeed and advocate on their

you wake up and discover that you have grown weary of following that dream?

With the continuous increase in recognition for the school, a parallel burden is carried by each student. The university views those accomplishments as trophies and certificates to be displayed in any way. Nonetheless, they overlook the behind-the-scenes triumph. Another glory means another load to embrace. As a result, some may feel that the constant need to perform well puts too much stress on them, while others may find it motivating.

These days, a lot of students forget their dreams because they are already at the peak of pleasing the university’s uncompromising standards. Fame is such a great priority that they are being over pressured and forced into horrible coping mechanisms. It cannot be denied that due to massive academic stress, they attend school just to have passing grades and survive the semester. According to a published article by ReachOut Schools in 2022, pressure to do well academically has been proven to contribute to people’s stress and mental problems.

Ironically, despite the university’s emphasis on competence among its students,

some of its instructors exhibit the opposite. If teachers are not adequately equipped and lack the essential qualities to instruct effectively, students may also suffer.

behalf. Unfortunately, there have been cases where student leaders have used their position of power for their own personal gain, instead of for the benefit of the student body—this could be in the form of financial incentives, or even privilege and recognition. While these leaders may appear to be acting in the best interest of their students, their true intentions are often hidden from view, making it difficult for students to trust their representation.

It is essential to remember that the primary responsibility of student leaders is to represent the interests of the student body, not to advance on their own. Unfortunately, it’s becoming more and more common for these leaders to abuse their positions in order to further their political agendas and partisan ideologies as influenced by internal and external forces, which can lead to a lack of transparency and objectivity, making it difficult for students to stay informed about the issues that affect them. This is an unacceptable practice, and student leaders should be held to a higher standard of fairness and impartiality.

The effects of a hidden agenda can be farreaching, extending beyond the university and into the broader student body. When student leaders are not representing their peers in an honest and open manner, it can create a divide between the student body and the university, making it difficult to build a sense of trust and camaraderie.

In an effective and fair manner, the

It’s no secret that academic pressure is mounting on students these days. It became so common that many people seem to have resigned themselves to the reality of it. But the truth is, there is a real connection between academic pressure and low-quality education. Numerous requirements must be met for them to receive high-quality education, but frequently these are unfulfilled. High expectations and standards, stress from some teachers, and substandard teaching techniques may cause students to perform poorly.

importance of transparent and accountable university organizations cannot be overstated when it comes to student representation. Transparency and accountability are integral to having a successful student representation system, and should be enforced across all university organizations. With these measures in place, students can rest assured that their voices will be heard and their concerns addressed.

The mask of a leader can be hard to see, but it’s important to recognize when it is present. Student leaders should be held to a higher standard of integrity, and university organizations should strive for transparency and accountability. When student leaders and university organizations are working together in the best interest of their students, they can create an environment of trust and mutual respect, where everyone’s voice is heard and valued.

These days, a lot of students forget their dreams because they are already at the peak of pleasing the university’s uncompromising standards.

Leaders who hide behind masks cannot represent us, they can only deceive us.

I’M ALIVE BUT, I’M BARELY BREATHING

Rissa S. Trazo

Britney W. Banaag

Illustration: Ryan

Rashed

Dongiapon

PH faces surging high inflation amid New Normal

The Philippines faces a threat to economic development, as most sectors struggle to recover from the prompts of the country’s growing inflation rate and after-effects of COVID-19. For over 14 years, since November 2008, the country has again undergone the highest rate of price surges, menacing the lives of the population and majorly affecting the education sector—one of the significant affectees of the pandemic—as it started transitioning to the new normal education after nearly three years of distance learning. The current cost of basic food staples, gasoline, and electricity has doubled, leaving a significant proportion of the population more than unprepared for an influx in their expenses, giving them a call of need to switch to a simpler lifestyle.

Skyrocketing Inflation Rate

A volatile economy awaits most Filipinos as rising prices for essential commodities lead off with 8.0% in November, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). This rise is largely driven by the adverse impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on global oil and food prices and the pandemic-driven recession in 2020. Continuous rise in inflation is primarily due to elevated, costlier food prices. Bank economist, Nicholas Mapa said that food costs would remain high due to crop damages caused by typhoons.

In addition, the Philippines’ interest rates were expected to rise last year at 5.5%. This was to maintain its aggressive rate hikes, hoping to crush soaring inflation. With that, the inflation rate is seen to decelerate back this year. Inflation could begin easing gradually and even fall substantially by the first quarter of 2023, a Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation Chief Economist Michael Ricafort said.

Weakening of Peso Currency

On Sept. 27, 2022, it took ₱59.26 to buy one US dollar, considered the highest dollar rate in Philippines history. As the inflation rate escalated, supply chain disruption, natural resources price increase, and transportation issues are the complex challenges faced by most industries. The further downward of the peso creates cost increases, contract constraints, and labor shifts.

In light of the depreciating peso, exporters and dollar earners form an advantage from it. A weaker peso vs. the US dollar would assist OFWs by increasing the value of revenues,

making them more competitive in sending remittances to their family and aiding their needs in the Philippines. Most people think that when the peso weakens against the dollar, the economy will weaken, but for us, it is not like that because there are OFWs, BPOs, lamented by Dr. Victor Abola, Professor and Director of the Strategic Business Economics Program at the University of Asia and the Pacific (UA&P).

Moreover, House of Representatives’ resident economist, Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda, noted that the dropping peso positively affects the country’s economy, as evidenced in GDP reports for the third quarter of 2022. Data from the BSP showed cash remittances sent through banks stood at $2.72 billion in August, higher than the $2.60 billion a year earlier, Salceda said. Per contra, the benefits of a weak peso on OFWs may become insignificant due to the country’s higher goods pricing. The weak peso negatively impacts purchasing power, causing prices to rise further, and creating a negative mark, especially for middle-class, poorer Filipinos, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

In the same light, Shairah Cabal, a firstyear Information Technology student at USTP CdO whose mother is an OFW in the United Arab Emirates, shares how remittances from abroad were neither an advantage or disadvantage to their end. Even though my mother is sending more money now, nothing has changed because goods prices are increasing here in the Philippines, Cabal lamented.

Consequently, financial pressures on low-income Filipinos become unbearable as

economic factors remain unfavorable.

Lifestyle Transformation

Towering inflation in the country further highlights the need for Filipinos to re-evaluate their lifestyle. Spending patterns shift as consumers curb and downgrade spending, especially on high-end goods, focusing more on necessities and food. It really affected my life because I could just buy what I wanted before, but now I have to prioritize my needs, USTP Cdo Civil Engineering freshman, Ivy L. Paler, said.

Since the beginning of this academic year, costs of supplies, transportation, and accommodations have skyrocketed, posing difficulties for students adjusting to the new normal education. It’s hard for me to budget because of the high prices, today, I can’t make ₱1,500.00 last for a week, compared to last year, Paler added.

Mikko M. Bautista, a junior scholar student from USTP CdO Science Education, also said that budgeting money these days is a struggle since the fare was doubled as well as the products that are needed for subjects such as notebooks, papers, etc.

With the uncertainty of lowering the curb of inflation, students, workers, and even the community will continuously endure the country’s unstable economy. Nevertheless, with prudent spending habits in this new normal, it is possible to survive and thrive amidst the intense flare of inflation.

Sources: http://bitly.ws/zDKC; http://bitly.ws/xEXv; http://bitly.ws/xEXK; http://bitly. ws/xEX; http://bitly.ws/xFX7; http://bitly.ws/xFXe; http://bitly.ws/xFXk; http://bitly.ws/xFXt

Catherine May S. Guegue & Joel S. Budlao Jr.

The Effects of Inflation. Navigating the high inflation in the Philippines, consumers line up to carefully budget their hardearned money at the grocery checkout.

Photo: John Michael B. Reita

IT students victorious in Asia Digital Challenge 2022

Louisse L. Achacoso

Another feat was added to USTP as Jon Clark C. Paner and Hannah Mae Q. Hormiguera, BS Information Technology (BSIT) students of the university won gold and bronze awards respectively in the International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL) – Asia Digital Challenge, Emerging Technologies Track - Tertiary Level Category.

Both trailblazers secured spots to represent the country in the international rounds of the said competition last September 5, 2022, after qualifying and winning in the national finals. Only the USTP CdO and Treston International College qualified for the Tertiary Level in the said national round last July 28, 2022.

Prior to these, Paner and Hormiguera

topped the preliminary rounds last July 14, 2022, wherein Paner scored 100% at 9.59 minutes, while Hormiguera recorded 94% at 13.39 minutes.

They bested over 1000 students from 11 countries who participated in the challenge, and received awards and recognition from the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) Region 10 on January 31.

With them on their journey to victory at the prestigious event were College of Information

USTP YouthMappers qualify as delegates for Int’l Summit

Karen Crystal B. Paler

Four Geodetic Engineering students of the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) YouthMappers chapter were among the 68 finalists accepted to join the 2023 Leadership Fellows Summit in Jamaica, organized by YouthMappers.

Participants of the said summit will receive professional development and leadership training, they will also be mentored by international experts, and will have the opportunity to interact and trade ideas with the three cohorts of summit leadership fellows around the world.

However, due to some problems in securing flight tickets, representatives from the Philippines were not able to attend the conference.

Nasayangan mi kay nag expect mi nga maka apil pero due [to] the circumstances murag na dawat nalang sab namo kay until right now the YouthMappers still supports the USTP-YouthMappers Chapter, said Joyce Mae R. Callao, USTP-Youthmappers Commissioner and one of the fellows for the summit.

The geodetic engineering studentdelegates are Robbery Jann S. Ello, Joyce Mae

Technology and Computing dean, Dr. Jocelyn B. Barbosa; Information Technology Department Chairperson, Ms. Love Jhoy M. Raboy, MIT; and Data Science Department Chairperson, Mr. Matthew R. Maulion, MSc.

The ICDL Asia Digital Challenge is an annual student competition targeted at Secondary and Tertiary school students in Asia who will compete and demonstrate how digital skills can be applied in this new digital economy.

Sources: http://bit.ly/3lkjbb7; http://bit.ly/3Yk1ZRT; http://bit.ly/3jOonDQ

R. Callao, June Sheeren F. Costales, and Helen B. Lumain, who were determined by their strong leadership, communication skills, and technical abilities in open mapping.

The USTP YouthMappers is a local chapter of YouthMappers established in 2021, which aims to engage students and the general public in community mapping activities that aim to address the various needs of students of Cagayan de Oro City.

Throughout the 17 months of its establishment, USTP YouthMappers has received multiple awards and recognitions from different organizations and award-giving bodies; as PH YouthMappers 2022 Awardee and Finalist of the Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) Awards Disaster Track for Project MapaSakuna, to name a few.

In addition, the organization has participated in various mapping events, including the recent Pista ng Mapa x State of the Map 2022 in Legazpi City, Albay, which led to their qualification for the said international summit in January 2023.

Moreover, the USTP YouthMappers is expanding its membership not only to Geodetic Engineering students but to all degree programs in the university. Engr. Denrazir M. Atara acts as faculty coach to these students.

Sources https://bit.ly/3jFTmSF; http://bit.ly/3XkpHfp; https://bit.ly/3YknMsF

Trailblazers in the International Scene. USTP-IT students (from left to right) Hannah Mae Q Hormiguera and Jon Clark C. Paner unleash their digital prowess and reign supreme as champions of the ICDL Asia Digital Challenge.

Photo credit: Mr. Matthew Real Maulion, MSc via Facebook

Setting sail for new heights. USTP Youthmappers to represent the university at the International Summit.

Photo credit: USTP-AGES Youthmappers

Crime incidents cause uproar among Cagay-anons

Kyle Remuel P. Ohil & Ryan L. Ga-as

An increase of juvenile delinquency sparked an uproar in Cagayan de Oro City as crimes took place in different corners at various times in the city of golden friendship.

In the recent July of last year, there have been seven crime incidents reported to the Cagayan de Oro Police Office (COCPO).

Following the said month, another abomination happened as the killing of a habal-habal driver at the back of the Xavier University took place last August 31.

Meanwhile on October 9, a riot among young people ended the life of a 26-year old on the Emmanuel Pelaez Bridge. On 25th, a 14year old teenager along Corrales Avenue was beaten up and stabbed twice.

Due to occurring city disturbances, COCPO Deputy Director for Operations, Lt. Col. Surki Sereñas, encouraged the public to be circumspect in their statements while authorities endeavor to synergize appropriate interventions to the present situation

In an interview with Johnlie Eballe, freshman from Bachelor of Science in Technology Communication Management (BSTCM), he shared that while going home to Barangay 17, he witnessed circumstances that can prove that CdO is not a safe place particularly to students who dismisses late.

I think the city government should strengthen the security and increase police surveillance around the city especially in empty streets. It may also help if they implement curfew for minors. I think these actions will make people, especially us students [whose living in CdO] feel safe and protected, Eballe added.

Moreover, as USTP is located near the mentioned areas, students expressed that security and safety are their primary concerns.

I feel unsafe while going home, especially when it’s night already but I always try to be extra careful and alert when I’m alone, said Kyla Kate S. Obial, a freshman from Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (BS Chem) who lives in Barangay Camaman-an.

Amidst the incidents, Sereñas advises locals to be calm, pointing out that there isn’t a rise in overall criminal offenses in the city—only in cases that receive a lot of media attention.

Moreover, in a separate statement, Ben Cyrus Ellorin, Overseer of the City Mayor’s Office Communications Group, peace and order are Mayor Rolando Uy’s top governance agenda.

Newly Elected FSC-USTP Executives unite to represent campuses

Michelle S. Salvan

After an in-depth deliberation of the Presidents from each USTP Campus, USTP Federation of Student Councils (FSC-USTP) starts anew with the Executive Board Members for AY 2022-2023 with the new student regent, Charmaine I. Nokom from USTP Villanueva.

Starting from scratch, FSC-USTP aims to represent student councils to the Board of Regents (BOR); amplifying the voice of the students across the USTP system through awareness of the matters that must be given attention to and with the conduct of needs assessments.

Moreover, the new set of officers consist of Jennifer Pauline A. Lim, Vice PresidentInternal (USTP CdO); Philip Andrew T. Asis, Vice President-External (USTP Claveria); Ela B. Hayagan, Secretary (USTP Panaon); Floramie V. Caballero, Treasurer (USTP Jasaan); Arian E. Magallanes, Auditor (USTP Alubijid); Harold John A. Payla, Public Information Officer (USTP Balubal) and Ma. Julisa Antonette P. Mahawan, FSC-USTP Board Member (USTP Oroquieta).

Each FSC-USTP executive member stands for a corresponding USTP campus, this is the reason that they aim to start building harmony towards the diversity of the executive board members.

The mere key to unite the university is to make every member of the federation feel heard and recognized because they represent their campus and students they serve. We may have different campuses but we have the same visions for our fellow students, Nokom stated.

The new student regent intends to implement a quarterly campus consultation, which aims to inform the Board of Regents on the needs of the students, work and unite with fellow FSC members to gear for one USTP system; this also targets to put their minds to making strategic plans to redefine the mission and vision of the federation.

Uniting for a Common Goal. The Newlyelected FSC-USTP Executives with USTP System President, Dr. Ambrosio B. Cultura.

Photo credit: USTP Strategic Communication

Outstanding Trailblazers shine in Kahamili 2022

CAMPUS Vic Anthon T. Jaudian

After two years of virtual recognitions, the university commenced its annual Kahamili Awards in a face-toface setup on December 13, 2022 at the Dr. Ricardo E. Rotoras (DRER) Memorial Hall, acknowledging USTP’s changemakers and their unique contributions in the community.

After a thorough deliberation, the Outstanding Student Organization Awards were given to Federation of Accredited Extracurricular Student Organizations (FAESO), Google Developer Student Clubs (GDSC), and Senior High School Governing Council (SSGC). Moreover, the Outstanding Organization Moderator Awardees were Giovanni B. Cagurin of FAESO, Petal May M. Dal of GDSC, and Engr. Lloyd John B. Estampas of SSGC. Furthermore, Allyssa L. Vallejos of GDSC, Coila Stefan L. Pepito of the University City Scholars (UCS), and Clark Romeo R. Naces of SSGC were awarded as Outstanding Student Leaders.

Under the provision of the university’s Office of Student Affairs

(OSA), the Kahamili Awards, for the longest time, has been acknowledging USTP Trailblazers’ outstanding achievements and celebrating success stories. This academic year, the awards ceremony took on a different approach, wherein student organizations were evaluated and categorized into three: as bronze, silver, and gold awardees.

According to USTP CdO Chancellor Atty. Dionel O. Albina, Kahamili is a Cebuano term for excellence. In which, by his appreciation, the event highlights those who have exemplified excellence in their services and dedication.

In the service of studentry, it is important that we fully understand the concept of what service is, he added.

The awarded organizations and student leaders have demonstrated fulfilment of their individual and collaborative missions. With their pride, honor, and significant contributions to the institution, these trailblazers are applauded and looked up to as role models.

Trailblazers emerge triumphant in MASTS 2022

Joel S. Budlao Jr.

The efforts in the field of hundreds of players representing the University of Science and Technology of the Southern Philippines – Cagayan de Oro (USTP CdO) has been paid off as they bested 32 other rival teams in sports and sociocultural competition events during the concluded 2022 Mindanao Association of State Tertiary Schools, Inc. (MASTS) Sports Friendship Game on November 5-13, 2022.

The Trailblazer athletes dominated and showed exceptional performances that led them to bag titles as champions in some categories during the run of the event held at Davao Oriental State

University, Mati City, Davao Oriental. USTP CdO delegates outshone in several sports competition events, garnering 40 gold, 13 silver, and 40 bronze medals, allowing them to be adjudged the fourthbest team in the sports tourney.

By seeing the results from their exploration, Trailblazers are now basking in the glory and trophy with the officials and coaches for the hard work and time spent on the said event. Aside from boosting their psychological spirit, the friendship games also served as a venue to develop camaraderie and discipline among players.

UNIVERSITY

OSA recognizes new student organizations

Erika Jane M. Llanes & Ryan L. Ga-as

Another set of student organizations was duly approved by the Office of Student Affairs (OSA), University of Science and Technology Southern Philippines - Cagayan de Oro (USTP Cdo) for the Academic Year (AY) 2022-2023. These are Andam Higala-USTP (AH-USTP), Movement of Adventist Students – Adventist Ministry to College (MAS-AMICUS), Robogals USTP, and USTP Balangaw (USBAW), they are now officially part of the Federation of Accredited Extracurricular Student Organization (FAESO).

AH-USTP is a branch of Andam Higala CdO that empowers the youth by providing need-based programs and initiatives for women, children, environment, mental health, and LGBTQIA+ which was founded by Herna Francis B. Tano and Maria Alexandrea Venilda P. Portillo, alumnae of USTP CdO. It is spearheaded by its president, Joel M. Nob, a 4th year BSEd Mathematics student.

On the other hand, the Movement of Adventist Students – Adventist Ministry to College and University Students (MASAMICUS) aims to promote the enhancement of academic excellence and religious rights of Seventh-day Adventist students. Currently, Dennis B. Quillano, a 3rd year BS Civil Engineering (BSCE) student is taking the lead in the organization.

Moreover, in order to promote inclusiveness, diversity, and empowerment in Science, Technology, and Engineering (STE) related fields, Robogals USTP seeks to change the imbalance in the huge disparity between genders and cultivate the confidence of young women to have an interest in STE areas. At present, Cipolletti C. Jipos, a 3rd year BS Electrical Engineering (BSEE) student, stands as the president.

Meanwhile, USTP Balangaw (USBAW) paved its way in the university as it moved forward in promoting social awareness and active involvement to represent the queer community; gathering and making a united movement toward a safe and inclusive community. With its pursuit to create an avenue for LGBTQ members, Eji M. Quiem, a 2nd year BSCE student, dares to leap as its president.

These student organizations are just among the 40+ student bodies in the university that are led by OSA which offer various initiatives that advocate for the students’ welfare, growth, and development.

Weaving a Trailblazing Future Together. The Senior High School Governing Council (SSGC) as they receive the Outstanding Student Organization award at the Kahamili Awards 2022. Photo: Mikhail Christian C. Gallana

Page Design: Ryan Rashed O. Dongiapon

The Trailblazer

Eriel Indira R. Albarece

Student organizations are not just a training ground for aspiring leaders; as early as they are in one, they should be the most efficient and reliable as they can be, for they are representing a whole student body. Consequently, financial transparency is likened to that of a student leader’s life extension. It will always be called for, and is the basis for one’s trustworthiness. After all, student organization funds are to be utilized for school activities that benefit and cater to the needs and interests of students, and should always be subjected to proper documentation. For the USTP CdO University Student Government for academic years 2019-2020 and 2020-2021, that is not the case though. Years later, when student batches under their administration have graduated and a new set of officers is now the subject for scrutiny of the USTP student body, they are yet to present their financial records for the mentioned 2 academic years. Like a hole, a gap to be filled in the three-year tenure under Mr. Mateo Julio G. Gervise’s administration, the call for transparency and accountability remains unattended.

The Overlooked Opener

On November 23, 2020, The Trailblazer Publication requested all Student Council Presidents to present their financial records for AY 2020-2021 on or before May 5, 2021. As of April 30, 2021, one student organization failed to submit. Ironically, it is the highest governing student body of the university. A joint complaint from student leaders in 2020 urged the publication to release an article addressing USG’s failure to comply with the requested documents. The article was posted at the publication’s official Facebook page, which sparked a fiasco and created tension among the Trailblazers who came across the FB post, as the controversy happened in the heat of the pandemic. Some seconded the plea for USG to release their statement in response to the unaddressed call for accountability, but majority gave the benefit of the doubt and insisted that the harshness of the press release was unnecessary and uncalled for. With the guidance of the Office of Student Affairs (OSA), further questions were raised, public hearings were conducted, and salient dialogues were exchanged, to this day, though the issue had somehow died down, no financial documents were still handed in.

A Resurfacing Slipup

After three years, the university formally welcomed an entirely new set of USG officers. Last August 31, 2022, as a manifestation of a proper turnover, the new USG administration led by Ms. Jennifer Pauline E. Lim asked the previous administration for their financial records from AY 2019-2020, 2020-2021, and 2021-2022, alongside relevant documents and record archival. Out of 13 asked documents, only 4 were given by February 2023, including the liquidation report

and receipts for AY 2021-2022. The financial report from last academic year was posted via official FB page of the USG, and revealed the previous administration’s justification of turning over a meager amount of 8,388.17 Php to Lim’s administration from their forwarded balance of 235,350.38 Php from the AY 2020-2021. Since the financial documents for the last two academic years are still nowhere to be seen, it is hard to trace the flow of money; to know the previous administration’s startup budget and its allocations that resulted to their turned over amount of 8,388.17 Php.

Badly Bewitched

According to Title V, Chapter 2, Art. 5 of the USTP Student Handbook 2021, The student organization official who fails to comply with financial accountability requirements shall be subjected to sanctions as stipulated in the student code. However, despite failing to submit their transparency records twice, there was no report of sanctions that have been done to address the shortcoming. Neither was there any concrete actions done on further complaints submitted by various student leaders who were concerned with the issue. Moreover, for the first semester of AY 2022-2023, the compliance with accomplishment reports and liquidation reports was held as a liability for student leaders’ clearance, prohibiting them to enroll unless the necessary documents have been submitted. A commendable measure that the OSA has taken this year, but where was this strict implementation when the previous USG administration was to be held accountable for failure to present their financial reports?

Any student organization in the university which denies the call for transparency and accountability demanded from them reduces the honor of serving the USTP community to tomfoolery. The previous administration did exactly such, and for three years at that. Many are unaware, some will overlook and forget, but a number, despite only a few, will always remember how this act was allowed to escalate. In a society wherein the majority chose to be rather impressed by some obvious con show, some see right through the magician’s tricks.

Inevitably living in the most digital era yet, our dependency on the internet progresses now more than ever. From using it merely for research and educational purposes, to turning to it for our daily dose of entertainment and lavish purchases- we surely have made the most out of the internet. Consequently, as we are dubbed the Generation Z aka Gen Z, who, according to the Insider Intelligence is a “generation born between 1979 to 2012 and raised on the internet and social media,” we do tend to be the most befitting people to use the digital platforms innately and comfortably. We probably start our day by praying, staring at the ceiling for some time, and then grabbing our phones to check for important messages. The next thing we know, we’re on the internet giggling to ourselves over some relatable videos and memes placed by the algorithm on our facebook, tiktok, or youtube feeds. The minutes have gone to turn into hours, a dreadful realization dawns: we’ve just spent a quarter of our morning stimulated over digital content that happen to appeal to our interest or sense of humor.

Undoubtly, the year 2022 was defined by some of the most viral and relatable memes and internet trends. What’s more interesting is that we, Filipinos, always find a way to relate these memes and trends to different aspects of our lives.

Scene I: Social Media and Political Participation

Social media platforms hugely influenced the 2022 general election’s campaigns, making the latter both entertaining and devastating. Aside from circulating fictional stories of candidates paired up for Wattpad-

like romances *cue in BBM x Sarah and DU30 x Leni ships*, troll armies who get paid a certain amount of money devoted their days to spreading false information and even reached the means of authoring scandals just to take down and brandish the opposing candidate’s reputation. Facebook’s comment sections have became a frenzy of clashing perspectives and political ideologies, often interjected by some painfully obvious troll comments. In a Facebook live by former Vice President Leni Robredo, a certain Jeanly Declarador exhibited a troll slip up by replying to her own question of Are you a nurse din po? Although this minor fault in copy-pasting gave rise to one of the most iconic memes in the country, it also confirmed and exposed the suspected movement of troll armies as one of the driving forces behind last election’s chaotic campaigns.

Scene II: Influencers in the Spotlight

Filipino internet personality Donnalyn Bartolome consistently makes it to the headlines- but not always for the ideal reasons. Her tendency to share thoughts, comments, photos, and videos in public with little regard to the audience, often led to backlashes. Bartolome’s sequential and seemingly problematic posts have concerned the citizens, knowing how she is one of the most followed ‘influencers’ today in the country. From feeding pedophilic fantasies by sexualizing toddler clothes, to just downright toxic positivity, her content is far less helpful and relevant than that of other content creators, but remains to be with the most number of engagements. It is as though despite constantly receiving bad remarks, she

enjoys the attention. After all, bad publicity is still publicity, a trap we always walk right into in the grounds of stardom in social media.

Scene III: Glamorized Crimes

Filipinos love to make fun of everything, often forgetting when to, and when not to. A viral video of Peejay “Otlum” Dela Cruz revealed her stealing a phone as caught by a CCTV footage, and then justifying herself by claiming that she did not steal anything as the phone was left unattended, even adding that her conscience is clear. In the news magazine show Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho, the owner of the phone and video uploader apologized to Otlum for posting the CCTV footage. It is alarming how from gaining public sympathy, suspects can change the narrative. Clearly, Otlum was in the wrong, but due to our habit of turning everything into a joke, some netizens look up to her as an idol in ‘gaslighting’, and gave her a platform she can use to her advantage, leaving the innocent victims questioning their own judgment of the situation.

The way social media and the internet influence both our digital and physical societies is at best, empowering, and at worst, terrifying. We often make a fool out of ourselves for getting carried away in the incessant pool of contradictions which is the internet. Knowing what content to consume, which personalities to follow, and how to identify propaganda, satire, and false information, are key to not fall prey into the crucial and somehow comedic scenes of the digital age.

Sources: http://bit.ly/3Y7ytOS; http://bit.ly/3YnEvuA

Eriel Indira R. Albarece

Pitik has been a trend recently on social media where it captures the slice-of-life view of each passerby often on streets, notable by its use of a digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR). This trend captivates the Filipino’s profound love on photography especially manifesting strong familial and community element. However, the disappointing and disturbing fact about this photography is that it does not need the subject’s permission to be photographed nor the consent to be shared on social media.

While rampant breach of digital data and scam causes growing doubt and concern on the cybersecurity of many Filipinos, the escalating concern delves on the stolen candid photos of people in public spaces as subjects taken by strangers and posting it online which endangers one’s security and privacy. As shallow as it may seem, the lack of digital literacy and discourse of the public on this matter allows this emerging trend to be tolerated further by many Filipinos.

Embedded Details in the Frame

When uploaded on online platforms – social media platforms, in particular, digital photos record information through Exchangeable Image File Format or EXIF. This format contains the information called “metadata” which describes data about the data. This data often includes the camera model, white balance, ISO, aperture, shutter

speed, or photo editing software used on the image. It can also be user definable revealing geographic location of an image, temperature, name of the photographer and even the exact coordinates for a GPS location.

Stolen images from pitik are a concern on the photographer’s purpose and its non-consent taking of the photo which can violate subject’s security and privacy. The information embedded within the digital photo can be a gateway to potential identity theft, phishing, and can leave an individual vulnerable to discrimination or harassment when this will be posted online.

Blurry Policy

In the disdain of the subject’s appearance in the photo, it can be supported and protected by the country’s data privacy law, Data Privacy Act (RA 10173), and even the Safe Spaces Act (RA 11313). The DPA highlights the definition and distinction of personal information and sensitive personal information and ensures the individual’s security and privacy under its implementing rules and regulations. This law, however, has provisions in it that includes an online environment into public spaces, which means it also prohibits the sexual remarks and comments online, including uploading or sharing of photos and videos online without consent. These laws might have been seen as weapons that can be used in defending

personal privacy and security, yet, it also has blurred or uncleared provisions that weakens the scope of its protection.

Left unchecked, the DPA has not clarified the concerns on the proper categorization of personal information – photos, in particular. This data protection law is somewhat inconsistent in their approach to photographs. Despite the comprehensive privacy programs of the National Privacy Commission, the DPA lacks the classification and guidelines in taking photos of the subjects within the provisions of the law.

On the other hand, the SSA could have been a suitable policy in addressing concerns in unconsent taking of photos in public spaces, but this just merely encompass on sexual harassment and not covers other criminal offenses.

Though the vast majority carries the burden of responsibility on the use of technology, the thought to think about is how the government would ensure to strengthen its policies on the digital realm mainly on data privacy and providing clear guidelines and classification on taking photos of various subjects. The issue of Pitik photography should be addressed through legislative policies in order to avoid the risk of digital threat that has been proliferating in our digital realm.

Sources: https://bit.ly/3XloZ1i; http://bit.ly/3lqJIUn

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Design: Llane Graceza

B. Benting & Jan Karl Malone

C. Pague

John Nicholson L. Vuelban

Aplatform where people rant, publicly criticize someone, and share thoughts with others, Twitter is indeed like an online diary for its avid users. But with the acquisition of business magnate Elon Musk, is the fun on Twitter just getting started, or is the blue app already dying and being drained of all its thrills and glories?

According to Rob Shuter, a journalist and gossip columnist, Twitter allows people to show who they really are through venting and sharing emotions with little care to those who see or read it, wherein they feel relaxed and relieved after doing so. On the contrary, Pew Research Center claims that Twitter provides inaccurate and misleading information and that it undermines democracy instead of sustaining principles of freedom of speech.

As a self-professed free speech absolutist, Musk signed a deal to acquire Twitter on October 28, 2022, for 44 billion dollars, making him the owner of the social media company with a 9.2% stake. He intends to take the Social Networking Site (SNS) private and disclosed that he wants the social media platform to conform more closely to the values of free expression.

Twitter started laying off some of its 7,500 employees amid rumors that he intended to fire around 50% of them. Parag Agrawal, CEO; Ned Segal, CFO; and the head of legal, policy, and trust, Vijaya Gadde, were fired, according to an email sent to staff: “In an effort to establish Twitter on a healthy path, we will go through the arduous process of downsizing our global workforce on Friday.”

As the de facto CEO, Musk has enlisted the aid of a group of associates, including his attorney, Alex Spiro, and his tech investors, Jason Calacanis and David Sacks, to help him manage the company.

Since the deal, the SNS has seen several changes, including Pay-per-view and Advertisers. Numerous corporate advertisers ceased their campaigns and stopped using Twitter, such as Ford, Pfizer Inc., Audi of America, General Mills, Mondelez International, the maker of Oreos, and General Motors. In a message to advertisers, Musk expressed the desire for the company to be the most respected advertising platform, according to Reuters.

Verified check marks available for an eight-dollar monthly subscription on Twitter are part of the adjustments it has been implementing. Thus, making it an instrument for spreading misinformation. One user who obtained a blue twitter mark used his account to impersonate the NBA Legend, Lebron James, and tweeted a request to be traded from the Lakers, which prompted the curiosity of thousands of netizens who retweeted and liked the post before being taken down. Consequently, users began abusing the blue check marks, and parody accounts are increasing on the SNS.

With the issues going around, several personalities have called out the businessman. The director of the Atlantic Council’s Digital Forensic Research Lab, Graham Brookie, said that it would compromise the information and the credibility SNS has as long as the defrauder continues to feed people lies. Similarly, Senator Edward J. Markey, a Democrat of Massachusetts, wrote a letter to Musk saying, Selling the truth is dangerous and unacceptable. With that, Twitter must answer how they will prevent spreading false claims from happening. Nonetheless, Musk showed no remorse in his tweet on November 11, 2022, stating usage of Twitter continues to rise and that One thing is for sure: it isn’t boring! Presently, the only way to recognize

between a real verified account and a paid verified account is to tap the user’s blue checkmark. In such a manner, it confirms if they were verified using Twitter’s old verification process or if they were verified using Twitter Blue. Regardless, the official account page remarks, This account is being verified because it is notable in government, news, entertainment, or other specific categories. The account paid for will display, This account is verified because it’s subscribed to Twitter Blue. More so, the updated account verification program has added a gold checkmark for companies and gray for the government.

Even if people have the freedom to express their intentions, unverified information, and entertainment ideas online, one must think of the consequences and effects that may make or break an individual. The impacts of social media can cause advantages or disadvantages to people, but, more importantly, it is used in ways that shape politics, business, world culture, education, careers, innovation, and more.

Sources: https://bit.ly/3WuOduo; https://bit.ly/3PAXU8jv; https://bit.ly/3YDoFgv; https://bit.ly/3G1FXw; http://bit.ly/3Hms64l

One thing is for sure: it isn’t boring!

Lights, camera, action!

Films are used as a means to escape reality; whenever we feel like zoning out of life, even just for a while, we indulge ourselves in various motion pictures that fit our tastes. But more than just an escape, movies interestingly make us feel understood and seen, moving us with storylines and plot twists that prove to be more relatable in real life than we would have anticipated. As we clutched our mobile phones, even on the screen, we felt the substantial feeling of our favorite scenes.

Here are 5 relatable movie characters that engraved a speck on every students’ heart and mind.

Rory Gilmore is your typical teenager who is invariably ready to sail through huge undertakings to hit straight As. Like a juggler in a lively circus, she knows how to balance her acads and lakads. The common denominator that links students like us and this character is the desire to thrive amid heavy expectations and suffocating pressure.

Rory Gilmore — never forget the name.

Aside from Wednesday herself, actress Joy Sunday’s portrayal of Bianca Barclay was admired for her unwavering moral character and tenacious leadership abilities. Her character reflects most of the Trailblazing student leaders whose visions are centred on providing nothing but altruistic service.

As simple as her name may be, her character reveals eminently overflowing emotions. She always strived for her place in the world despite being ridiculed and discriminated against. Anne’s character reminded us that being courageously vocal of our dreams and aspirations will surely allow us to crack out of our cocoons and blossom into what we are bound to become.

Within the Cecile Hall of Eden Academy— Anya Forger of the anime series, Spy x Family, wanders around. Her pocket is full of dreams of being at her optimum level to make her parents proud. The latter is surely on top of our lists as we think about the goals we aim to reach in all facets of life, more so in our academics. As young as we are, we must embody Anya’s character; fervid in pouring her heart unto the things she is passionate about.

One of the most influential movie characters who always has her nose stuck in a book is Matilda Wormwood. Hence, the surname.

Most people learned things the hard way and Matilda is one. However, may we never allow the cruelty of the world to contaminate our positive outlook in life just like Matilda. She helped us bring in mind that dreams are made for all ages; everyone is bound to wish for whatever the heart yearns.

Beyond a shadow of a doubt, certain movie characters come to aid the heart’s core; often serving a whirlwind of emotions to the main table. Fictional personas subconsciously urge the audience to perceive things from their vantage points. Hence, making them influential. That said, empathy is just one of the million things that students can conceivably grasp from what’s portrayed on screen. The experiences we bottle up somehow connect us with these fictitous exemplars who encouraged us to embrace our youth and use it as a trump card in this mortal coil.

All of the uttered lines and realistic scenes capture the nub as it is the mere quintessence of films– to make each one feel that all stories are meant to be heard and told.

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Design: John Michael

B. Reita

Before the Filipinas’ class of 2022 created history at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in January, no Philippine team, male or female, had ever qualified for a World Cup. After suffering double-digit losses to some of Asia’s top teams several years prior, the Philippine squad achieved historic qualifying, securing the country’s first-ever attendance at a FIFA World Cup.

In this connection, the Philippine Women’s Football team overcame the Chinese Taipei through a penalty shootout, winning 4-3 after a 1-1 draw, on January 31, 2022, In Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex, India. Despite Chinese Taipei defeating the top-ranked Iran squad, which had previously won numerous championships at the previous AFC Finals, the Philippines still earned its place in the final and qualified for the country’s first-ever World Cup Tournament.

The first goal of the game was clinched by midfielder Quinly Quezada in the second half battling against the first score of the game. Not too long after Quezada’s goal, Zhuo Li-ping of Chinese Taipei scored a miracle tie breaker ending the second half with 1-1 draw which forced the game for extra time and followed by penalty kicks right after. The Philippines was at the edge of losing the right to the World Cup when Long missed the fourth penalty kick. However, Chinese Taipei’s last minutes were jeopardized by missed penalty shootouts collected by the calm and firm Philippine’s goalkeeper Olivia Mcdaniel. Sarina Bolden, the Philippine’s veteran forward, showed nerves of steel in beating Chinese Taipei goalkeeper Cheng Ssu-yu and secured the match-winning penalty.

The game ended with a 4-3 and 1-1 draw, concluding the Filipinas as the winner of the game and securing a place for the Philippines’ first World Cup quest this coming

February 2023. The passion and resilience of the Filipinos led them to win. They have played matches with countries like New Zealand, Thailand, and Hong Kong prior to their winning match with Chinese Taipei. They have been jumping from one game to another, with jet lags and cramps altogether- they did not give up. The passion and resilience of the Filipinos led them to win. “I think that’s what you saw that day -- you saw girls communicating, yelling, screaming, no matter where they were because that’s just how Filipinos do it. We are loud, we are proud,” Bolden said in an interview with ABS-CBN News.

The Philippines marched forward to make history at the FIFA World Cup 2023 after doing so in India. But the Filipinas are gearing up for even greater glory—the nation’s first World Cup and the future of football in the nation. Regardless, history was written.

Sources:

http://bitly.ws/A3Um; http://bitly.ws/A3Ua; http://bitly.ws/A3TZ

Indeed, achieving success requires a tremendous deal of pride and satisfaction. However, it might be difficult to maintain your dominance in an area where you are regarded as strong, especially if “winning” also carries responsibilities and reputation. With that being said, this begs the question of whether or not there will be pressure or empowerment on the path to bringing home the championship trophy for a fourth time.

The USTP Badminton Team, both men and women, have once again proved themselves in the badminton courts during the Mindanao Association of State Tertiary Schools (MASTS) 2022. Fueled with strength and skills, the teams trounced the other delegates present as they set off to Davao Oriental State University at Mati City last November 11, 2022, showing prowess in ruling the courts and winning grand slam during the games.

In an interview made with the team captain of USTP Badminton Men, Jhon Moore Sebastian, BSEE 5th year student, he stated that the preparations made are not that much but rough struggles were indeed experienced; from planning lineups and strengthening everyone’s mentality. The teams took on the challenges with the goal to fight for the school and to bring the victory with pride, confidence and honor.

Sebastian took part in the previous MASTS event four times, from the years 2016 to 2019. He and the team garnered bronze medals in 2016, and claimed the championship title for the remaining three consecutive years from 2017 to 2019. They qualified for SCUAA in 2017 and 2018 which were hosted by Batangas and Antique, respectively. Team events placed fourth in Batangas, while they won silver in Antique. They were not able to participate in SCUAA 2019 due to threats of the CoVid-19.

The teams were both composed of equally passionate and competitive athletes. Hannah Shannen Gamutin (3rd Year BSTCM) for 1st Singles/Doubles, Grace Cubero (2nd Year BSCE) for 2nd Singles/Doubles, Gracela Acebu (4th Year BSTCM) for 2nd Singles, and Marian Juntahan (3rd Year BSESM) and Jephcyl Lamberte (5th Year BSARCH) for Doubles completed the women’s team. On the other hand, Jhon Moore Sebastian (5th Year BSEE) for 1st Singles, Ryan Jay Reformina (4th Year BSAM) for 2nd Singles, as well as Renz Joshua Reformina (3rd Year BSCE), Justineyves Ricablanca (2nd Year BSECE) and Dwyne Tirasol (3rd Year BSIT) for Doubles represented the men’s team. The team captains for women and men, Gamutin and Sebastian respectively, were both hailed as the Most Valuable Player for the entirety of the badminton event.

Pressure will always be there, but the question is how will you turn that pressure into confidence when playing? said Sebastian when asked if he felt pressured or confident during the match. The team captain also made a point that if you do not know how to handle pressure, then it will affect your game, but if you put trust in yourself, then confidence will follow.

Pressure, as defined by Sebastian, is like fighting with oneself and not trying to trust in what one is capable of, yet feeling confident and powerful is like walking with so much honor, dignity and exuding the atmosphere of pursuing triumph. Although there is a vast difference between the two, each of these things can serve as inspiration for pursuing one’s goals.

Discussions regarding qualifying to the upcoming State Colleges and Universities Athletic Association (SCUAA) 2022, Sebastian has put in a word that the teams will surely train hard with consistency, toughen their mentality more, and will put trust and confidence in themselves.

The coaches are Dr. Alenogines L. San Diego, and Ms. Fritzie B. Salado, both have acted as guidance to the players who were able to see enlightenment during the journey through instilling goals by taking one step at a time, by giving every opponent a good match, and by thorough planning and coaching of the team.

Pressure and power can coexist, and these two can be drives to bring home the bacon.

Source: https://bit.ly/3xbIz5D

Page Design: Mary Elizabeth

E. Gomora & Prexie Caangay

Pressure will always be there, but the question is how will you turn that pressure into a confidence when playing?

Trail in Motion

Kahamili Awards 2022

The Trailblazer Publication was among the nominated Outstanding Student Organizations while, Dr. Ramir Philip Jones V. Sonsona was one of the Outstanding Moderator Finalists, so with Ryan L. Ga-as, Finalist for Outstanding Student Leader category.

PAMUGAS 2023