THE WESTERNIAN PIONEER LAST ISSUE by THEWESTERNIANPIONEER

JANUARY- JUNE VOL. XXXIX | NO. 1

The Official Student Publication of the University of Batangas High School Department - Division of Batangas City, Region IV-A CALABARZON

MORE UPDATES HERE!

the westernian

The Westernian Pioneer

@thewesternianpioneer

community pantries

“ W I T H W O R D S , W E G OV E R N M E N ”

community pantries in wheels

news analysis

DUTERTE’S BACKFIRED RESPONSE-ABILITY

WHEN FAITH BEGINS

Kit Brian Dimatatac

ne year after the Philippines’ first lockdown, and the longest one in the world, things are, ironically, getting worse than ever.

Shania Gamara

he Philippines marks its 500th year of Christianity despite the scorch of the pandemic that has struck all around the world for almost two years.

Last April 2, new COVID-19 cases in the Philippines reached a record high of 15,310, which is higher than any other day since the pandemic started, with the succeeding days breaching the 10,000 mark of new cases. Many Filipinos are tired of hunkering down in their homes, with reunions reportedly becoming more prevalent. As of April 17, 1,264,811 Filipinos have been vaccinated but that’s just 34,230 a day, and at that rate, it will take more than 6 years to inoculate 70 million Filipinos, the government’s target by end-2021. While data from various countries show negative progression after their vaccination, the government is losing its race against the virus with their slow vaccine procurement. Amid all this, Duterte and his economic managers have relentlessly pushed to reopen huge swaths of the economy, parroting nonstop of the necessity of reopening. On February 15, the government's pandemic task force approved the reopening of cinemas, arcades, museums, meeting venues, and religious services. Local leaders, following the lead of the national government, have relaxed quarantine regulations, enabling the spread of COVID-19. Many Filipinos have let their defenses down and resumed business as usual as a result of such reckless and deceptive messaging.

Turn to page 03

500 YEAR

anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines

FAITH ABOVE ALL.

PHOTO BY 500 Years of Christianity (Archdiocese of Manila)

In celebration of the 500th anniversary of the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines, Filipinos take courage to spend their 4th Sunday of Easter in various Catholic churches as part of a commemoration and sentimental reflection—despite any adversities, Filipinos remain religiously devoted and bounded by the essential value and fulfillment of faith.

Dr. Perez owes late mother's love for education for WPC'S foundation

UB geared for online class, new normal protocols Kit Brian Dimatatac

Shania Gamara

onrada was among those who strengthened the foundations of WPC,’ says Dr. Hernando B. Perez, the president of the University of Batangas, during the recently convened Virtual Founders Memorial Lecture, paying tribute to the lives and legacy of the university’s founding fathers

NEVER FORGOTTEN

PHOTO BY University of Batangas

University of Batangas President Hernando B. Perez commemorates the 75th founding anniversary of UB through honoring the legacy of his late mother Conrada to the institution through the years.

editorial

This incumbent university President emphasized that his mother had a great love for education. He indicated that he recalled her mother talking to his father wanting to get a job, just to accompany him to a college in Manila. “That incident became etched in my memory and made me love my mother more,” he explained. Perez also pointed out that Conrada was a pioneer

of baby dresses, taking the bus weekly, just to pick up the materials and sew these creations back in Batangas. “When done, she took the bus again to deliver the baby dresses to Manila and bring back the materials to Batangas. It was a tedious job and she did that for years,” he added. However, even with great despair after the death of her husband, Francisco G. Perez, Conrada willingly gave

up on her business and sent her three children through colleges in Manila on her own. “Sending her three children through college in Manila was a miracle. She did it with pure determination and extreme sacrifice,” Perez exclaimed. Conrada also obtained the place of her husband, being a member of the WPC’s board of regents and a Treasurer, which she held until she passed away in 1992.

NOT A VILLAIN

SIX FEET CLOSER

FROM A MILE AWAY

With already a year battling the pandemic...

It this period of history when constant spells peril,...

Controversially known as a country that puts...

Turn to page 04

feature

Turn to page 08

sci-tech

Turn to page 10

ith the restrictions imposed by the quarantine protocols for this S.Y. 2020-2021, University of Batangas administrators reassured that they are wellequipped for the new normal online method of teaching, as they have been implementing the blended learning approach for three years. Since 2017, the university has been using the UBian Learning Management System (LMS), an... Turn to page 02

THE CHASE IS ON It has been a long wait for Hidilyn Diaz...

sports

Turn to page 14

Gielyne Guinihin & Nhel Gutierrez

HEAD START.

PHOTO BY Palakat Batangas City

News

editors:

As part of the onset vaccination against COVID-19, a City Health Officer led the first dose of Sinovac vaccination placed at the Batangas City Convention Center.

featured story

UB marks 75th founding anniversary Aron Rayner Melo

DOLORES B. DEADE Head Nurse, Golden Gate Hospital Inc.

3RD IN THE PHILIPPINES PACUCOA hails UB as 3rd with highest number of accredited programs

Gielyne Guinihin & Kit Brian Dimatatac

he University of Batangas remains “Undeniably the Best” after being recognized by the Philippine Association of Colleges and Universities Commission on Accreditation (PACUCOA) as the institution with the highest number of accredited programs in CALABARZON, ranking third in the country in 2020. milestone achievement. “As President of University of Batangas, I am honored to receive from PACUCOA the award of being the university with the third highest number of accredited programs in the Philippines following University of Santo Tomas and University of Mindanao. UB is also honored to receive the award of being the institution with the highest accredited programs in Region IV,” Dr. Perez stated. “I want to thank all the administrators, teaching and non-teaching staff for making these possible,” he added. The University was

UB geared... From page 01

online education hub that supports efficient teaching and learning, which is powered by Cypher Learning, a California-based company that specializes in providing learning platforms around the world. Amid the pandemic, it was able to maintain the continuity of quality education through synchronous and asynchronous classes, overcoming the obstacles of the new normal. “Napakabeneficial ng LMS sa ngayon. Buti na lamang at matagal na itong pinapatupad ng UB kaya hindi na kami nanibago ngayon,” Cielina Batang, a Grade 12 student, stated. Moreover, Mrs. Famela Barairo, LMS Coordinator, asserted that it organizes eLearning content in one location, easily tracks learner progress and performance, reduces learning and development costs and time, and integrates social learning experiences. After a series of natural calamities with the pandemic, Taal volcano eruption, strong typhoons, and earthquakes disrupting classes, the UBian LMS proved to be greatly efficient, compelling teachers and students to stay home to teach or study online. “At first, many students were complaining about it but then look now, they are the ones who benefited from these, which shows that all we are doing is for the best of the students,” Dr. Augusto Africa, Senior High School principal, said.

Turn to page 03

WE RISE AND STRIDE

photo story

As a frontline worker, getting this vaccine is not just for my sake but for the protection of my family as well.

Following the University of Santo Tomas and University of Mindanao, the university clinched the spot along with the University of BatangasLipa Campus as the institution with the highest number of candidate programs in the Philippines. Through a post on his official Facebook account, the University President, Dr. Hernando B. Perez expressed how he was honored by receiving the awards from PACUCOA, commending all the administrators and teaching and non-teaching staff of both campuses for the

LAST SUFFER Public Employment Service Office (PESO) Supervising Officer Noel Silang, a former seminarian...

not a stranger in receiving recognitions for in 1987, PACUCOA first granted the Western Philippine Colleges (WPC), now University of Batangas, the Deregulated Status and Level I Accreditation to Liberal Arts, Commerce and Education (LACOMED) Moreover, UB also obtained the Level IV PACUCOA Accreditation in Elementary and Secondary Education, Business Administration and Arts and Sciences the following years, making it the institution with the most number of Level IV accredited programs. For Alexandrei Garcia,

a senior high student at the university, this achievement proves that UB will always be one of the universities in the country that will provide courses and programs that are competitive, yet quality education. Meanwhile, despite having the yearly accreditation done online, PACUCOA accreditor, Ms. Cristina Price mentioned to the educators that students present during the April 27 accreditation were “exemplary”, and that the university has proved its excellence as being undeniably the best.

espite the adversities and challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, the University of Batangas marked and celebrated its 75th founding anniversary to commemorate its legacy and humble beginnings as an educational institution that continuously promotes quality education, talents, and core values since 1946. With the theme “We Rise and Stride at 75”, the Corporate Communications Office (CCO) and the Culture, Arts and Publications in Basic Education (CAPBE) Office spearheaded the event with a virtual cultural show as the highlight of the celebration. The milestone event kicked off with a Thanksgiving Mass at the UB Chapel on February 22 officiated by Fr. Donald Dimaandal of the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception. As part of the event, a Founders’ Memorial Lecture was held on February 24 online to commemorate the esteemed founders and honor Mrs. Conrada Benito Perez as one of the notable individuals who made a significant impact in the university. Meanwhile, a virtual cultural show highlighted the anniversary celebration as it showcased the talents of various cultural groups of the institution via Facebook live on February 26. According to Dr. Redentor Rodriguez, director of the CAPBE Office, the event is a reminder of the legacy of the university’s founding fathers as the institution turns their noble causes and promises into reality.

UB steps up COVID-19 safety protocols Nhel Gutierrez

ith the back and forth implementation of community quarantines across the country, the University of Batangas (UB) stepped up its COVID-19 safety protocols to prevent the further transmission of the virus and to ensure safe operations inside the educational facilities and premises of the institution. In an interview, Paul Sherwin Sanggalang, UB's safety officer, emphasized that the university, through its consistency, is doubling its efforts to control the spread of the virus with the utilization of improved strategies and protocols, technology and additional resources. "When it comes to protocols, we are providing everything and the University of Batangas is prepared. But the advantage is that consistent tayo sa pagiimplement ng protocols at sa pagpapaalala sa mga tao na sumunod sa mga ito," Sanggalang expressed Sanggalang

mentioned some of the implementing protocols in the university including the use of QR codes for contactless health declaration forms and the strategically located handwashing stations around the institution. Moreover, the university provides foot baths in entrances together with thermal scanners and alcohol dispensing machines for the smooth flow of arrival and exit of the public in the university. "We have health martials na wel-oriented sa pagre-remind na i-observe ang safety protocols such as wearing face masks and

shields. Also, we provided directional signages and markings upang maiwasan ang pagtitipontipon sa iisang lugar," Sanggalang said. Meanwhile, the university prepared an isolation room for any suspected COVID-19 cases, a properly ventilated dining area, and pick-up stations for deliveries. As for the problems encountered, the safety officer claimed that minimal problems such as the neglect to wear masks and shields are not left unconsidered as the health officers are strictly implementing the safety protocols.

PHOTO BY Jamaeiah Ericka Macaraig

PREVENTIVE MEASURES. In light of the current health crisis and rise of the COVID-19 cases, University of Batangas Crisis Management Committee initiated an action to set up a reorientation concerning COVID-19 protocols and minimum health standards—alongside preventive disinfection in the premises.

editors:

Nhel Gutierrez & Gielyne Guinihin news bits

Batangas City Beneficiaries receive at least 5k in DSWD’s LAG

PHOTO BY Jamaeiah Ericka Macaraig

NEWS

THE UNITY OF EVERY–JUAN. Inspired by Maginhawa Community Pantry, Batelec Community Pantry in Batangas was put up with the initiative of Batangas Electric Cooperative—so as to cater in-kind donations and to lead a movement that will suffice the basic necessities of every Batangueños.

Stephanie Kate Arteza

he Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) distributed at least Php 5,000.00 Livelihood Assistance Grants (LAG) through the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) to 342 beneficiaries set to receive their money on April 30. LAG beneficiaries were given 5k to 15k start-up capital as augmentation support from the government to establish their chosen enterprises. “LAG aims to assist recovery and rehabilitation of affected low-income households to sustain family welfare and financial incapacity,” DSWD representative, Ms. Marifel Cabile stated in an interview. As part of the DSWD's SLP initiative, LAG could be used to start “anew and small-scale businesses” in an area that will help the residents earn, Ms. Cabile added. Moreover, 829 residents were also given financial assistance, as beneficiaries were shortlisted through Congressman Marvey Marino's office.

EBD BLADES BAGS NETHERLANDS DANCE COMPETITION TITLE Nhel Gutierrez

LAST SUFFER

Community Pantry founder fears supply sustainability Nhel Gutierrez

ublic Employment Service Office (PESO) Supervising Officer Noel Silang, a former seminarian, fears the sustainability of goods and supplies of established community pantries in Batangas City due to the escalating demands of the public amid the rising number of COVID-19 cases across the country.

In an interview, Silang stressed their dilemma of running out of supplies of basic commodities as the number of people who acquires from the pantry upsurges in this time of pandemic. “May mga pantries na nakakasustain. Iyon ‘yung fear. Hindi mo alam kung may dadating or may magbibigay pa as you see a lot of people waiting in line early in the morning,” Silang asserted. According to Silang, despite serving as a response to the demands of

Batanguenos, community pantries prevail to be victims of abuse as some people take advantage of the free supplies, disregarding the “kumuha ayon sa pangangailangan” mantra. “Tugon ito sa pangangailangan ng mga taga Batangas City but in our barangay, minsan nauubusan yung iba at hindi umaabot ang supplies so umaakyat na kami dun sa level na we have to be sustainable doon sa aming program,” Silang said. With this, the team requires donations to arrive two days in

advance to give equal chances for the public in receiving the supplies. “Kinakausap na namin ang mga tao na magbigay two days before displaying the supplies. We give others the opportunity na makakuha ng pagkain. Kahit paano nakakahingi kami sa mga friends namin, I don’t see any reason na it’s wrong,” he said. When asked regarding the duration of the community pantries, Silang stressed that when 90% of Filipinos are vaccinated, the program might

end as soon as possible to avoid the public depending too much on the free goods. “Ayaw namin na panghabambuhay na gawin ‘to kase you are not teaching people how to fish kaya lang nakaquarantine tayo and hopefully masustain so we’ll see,” he stressed. To recall, Ana Patricia Non, founder of the Maginhawa Community Pantry, pioneered the community pantry initiatives following her remarks over the government’s “lack of action”.

WHEN FAITH BEGINS From page 01

PHOTO BY Palakat Batangas

TASTE OF SUCCESS. Amidst the threat and uphill battle against COVID-19, EBD Blades hailed as best group in the Colorguard Netherlands United (CGN United) Global Online Championship Dance Challenge—a virtual competition led by The Netherlands composed of 275 performances out of 150 groups and individuals arising from 16 countries worldwide.

he official marching band of Batangas City, the EBD Blades, clinched the championship title in the 2021 Colorguard Netherlands United (CGN) Global Championship Dance Challenge, besting among 275 performances and 150 groups and individuals from 16 countries With their winning entry entitled “Pagduong”, the EBD Blades showcased its movements in percussion, winds, and color guards in the virtual competition with the aim to advocate dance, music, and sports among the youth. The said competition is also a professional platform for enhancing the technical skills and creativity of its participants through the different categories in the field of marching bands. According to Christopher Ramos, the band director and choreographer, the EBD Blades, as a group, struggled from the adversities brought by the pandemic but persevered to qualify and compete in the competition. “Hindi naging madali ang pinagdaanan namin pero alam namin na hindi imposible. Everything was a struggle, mula sa costume, sa paghahanap ng practice place at venue for video shoot dahil ng pandemyang ating nararanasan pero it was all worth it dahil kami ang nanalo,” Ramos asserted.

This religious Filipino faith was said to have begun in the year 1521, after Ferdinand Magellan with his sailors, 'East Indies', first step foot on the south of Leyte, the Limasawa island. After staying for a month and a half, 800 people were baptized which set the first Catholic community in the Philippines. FAITH IS THE KEY With more than 86 percent of Filipinos

belonging to the Roman Catholic religion, the Philippines is considered the only dominant Christian nation in Asia. This Christian belief has set a clear picture for the undying faith and religiosity of the Filipinos. There were yearly celebrations like immense processions, parades, and kissing of images of Jesus, however, put to a test due to the strike of the pandemic.

Due to this, it has prompted strategies of churches in the Philippines in sharing faith online, highlighting certain aspects of incorporating faith in daily lives. “Faith is a gift from God. And so, we are joyful in this special jubilee year,” Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) President Archbishop Romulo Valles expressed in an interview with

Vatican Radio. ESSENCE OF COMPASSION Incorporating this virtual medium resulted in the churches coming up with the theme, “Gifted to Give,” aiming to provide more opportunities for formation and faith. Even in the beginning of 2020, the Philippines faced a number of calamities, earthquakes, followed by the COVID-19

pandemic. But these did not stop Filipinos from lending a hand to others. People have blatantly reached out to help the victims with open doors to those who have lost their homes and livelihood even in times of distress. Nonetheless, Manila Archdiocese indicated that they have volunteered to offer vaccination centers with their facilities.

pioneer achievements

TWP, TP seal awards, secure top spots in online national press conference Gielyne Guinihin

he Westernian Pioneer and Tunog Pamantasan exhibit excellence by bagging multiple awards in various national online campus journalism competitions, bringing pride and glory to the institution. From having over 300 participants nationwide, 11 staffers were recognized as they proved their skills in Camilo Osias Arts Festival (CAMAF) 2021 last March 27 while five student journalists and a school paper adviser emerged victors in the 17th Word Cup Philippines last February 27-28. “Indeed, no pandemic

can hinder the success of the campus journalists,” Dr. Redentor Rodriguez, Director of Culture Arts and Publication for Basic Education, asserted in an online interview. Furthermore, Christopher Capuno, the publication’s Editor-inChief, raised the flag of the university for securing fifth

place in the Ditto Sarmiento Journalism Cup 2020’s Search for Ten Outstanding Young Journalists last October 24. Meanwhile, The Manila Times 2020 Campus Press Awards granted Best Layout and Page Design, Best Photography, Best Editorial Story and Best Sports Story to the works of the writers.

CAMAF 2021 17th word cup the manila times ditto sarmiento journalism cup

Opinion

editors-in-chief:

Lykha Mae Gonzales & Christopher Jardine Capuno

commentary

"We are not alone in this pandemic for UB is one of our support systems that will shield and lend a hand to us no matter what adversities we face."

editorial proper

NO ONE BEHIND EPIPHANY

Gielyne Guinihin

mmersion is administered to open the eyes of the students as it provides “real workplace” experiences and builds meaningful learning opportunities. And recently, the University of Batangas Senior High School (UBSHS) students started to voice out positive remarks towards practical strategies imposed by the administration, flooding different social media platforms and influencing more people to act the same.

Webinars being a small platform still serve a promising purpose for this year’s immersion provided that is a sufficient tool towards the attainment of knowledge because they cover topics suitable to the students' field of interest, similar to the strand Accountancy and Business Management as its webinars tackle approaches related to business that are definitely useful in the near future. Adding to that, even though home immersion takes place, the students lauded the university’s way of coping through consistent monitoring of the student’s progress by creating a schedule of online meetings with their corresponding advisers and OJT coordinators. It also cannot be denied that with the insufficiency in time, the groupings for the UBSHS strands were created in just a blink of an eye, yet all the students fall into a group aligned with their desired course given that the personnel in charge took into account their preferences. Evidently, the performance of the students involving their tasks, improved on a higher scale brought by contentment and enthusiasm. To further ensure the effectiveness of immersion, UBSHS teachers employed online practice especially for STEMEngineering with the use of applications to enhance the skills of the students in terms of proper measurements, tools and processes. Truly, the pandemic has been continuously affecting the educational set-up, causing sudden changes,However, the university did not put the immersion of the students at stake rather it promotes feasible adjustments, proving that we are on the same boat, connected, regardless of the gaps prevalent. The administrators’ solution did not eradicate the problem but more so, it reduced inconvenience and discomfort. To the latter, not in any way the institution trembles since they primarily focused with the goal of sustainability in refined education. After all, the current holes are now filled with solutions that leave no one behind.

Not A

Villain W

ith already a year battling the pandemic, University of Batangas (UB) proves that they are undeniably the best as they strongly faced the crisis by still offering the finest practices to their students and even up to their employees. With that being said, it is no doubt to say that the institution is truly compassionate when it comes to those things. Due to the pandemic, the administration had decided to implement online distance learning for the upcoming school year whereas according to the Department of Education, the institution has the option to choose between modular or online classes using different platforms. In this situation, UB executed it well when it comes to coping up with their students as they are one of those few universities in Batangas City that only utilized an everyday online class to ensure quality education and at the same time, not

risking the health of their students and employees. This is a very good thing in the case of their students and parents to easily catch up on the lessons despite the hindrances and to rest assured that there is a lesser chance of getting a virus on their safe place, respectively. The university decided last February to lessen the miscellaneous fees on the accounts of each student which became a big help for everyone's sake. UBians are privileged to grab a chance to study in an online setup given the fact that it is pandemic and with

the reduction in fees, UB helped to ease the financial burden of the parents and still managed to provide a quality education. As the university always makes sure that no one gets left behind, the admin, along with the faculties , gave their support back to their adopted locality, Barangay Cuta, Batangas City through the community pantry project. As Noel Silang, the supervising labor and employment officer of the Public Employment Service Office of the city, said that it is the community taking initiative in response to the government’s

shortcomings whereas it should be the other way around. UB, in every way, is trying its best to reach out not just to the student’s needs and appeals but also to the people who are greatly affected by this pandemic. Truly, the university has never failed to amaze us by considering their people through having a heart despite this trying times. All in all, it is nice to hear these words from our institution as a response for this major crisis. Indeed, UB proves that they are not villains as they ponder their students at all cost.

editorial board Editors in Chief: Christopher Jardine Capuno, Lykha Mae Gonzales Associate Editors in Chief: Kit Brian Dimatatac, Kyle Ezra Delos Reyes Managing Editors: Bjorn Del Deade, Jayniah Vinielle Barza Business and Circulation: Antoine Clarence Miranda, Gielyne Guinihin News Editor: Nhel Gutierrez, Gielyne Guinihin Feature Editor: Bjorn Del Deade, Christopher Jardine Capuno Science and Technology Editor: Robert Patrick Talabis, Ranier Villanueva Sports Editor: Van Aeros Torres, River Dale Evangelio Chief Cartoonist: Vince Nigel Son Assistant Chief Cartoonist: Clarisse Jenn Baloy Chief Photojournalist: Jamaeiah Ericka Macaraig Assistant Chief Photojournalists: Arielle John Tolentino Chief Graphics and Design: Aron Rayner Melo Assistant Graphics and Design: Arlynn De Ramos Chief TV Broadcaster: Celeste Cananua Reporters: Stephanie Arteza, Shania Gamara, Sidnee Madlangbayan, Hannah Jane Perez, Advisers: Mr. Michael Justin de Mesa, Ms. Mylene Holgado, Mr. Carl Ivan Villanueva, Mr. Julius Eric Mendoza Principals: Dr. Hilaria Guico, Dr. Augusto Africa Culture Arts and Publications in Basic Education Director: Dr. Redentor Rodriguez

PAIN KILLERS

T KEY OF C

he Filipinos are tired. From the year-long lockdowns to the poor pandemic responses, the public are in excruciating pain as they brave the tough days in a country where comfort shows no abundance. But just when these exhausted people try to find a way to survive, some are left with no choice but to run from officials who use their power to inflict pain. Now, these men in uniforms who are trusted to defend the weak become the perpetrators and before the list of victims gets longer, it is high time to do one thing — put an end to it, once and for all.

"People should never let these officials use their power to rule the people with violence — after all, nothing good comes out of it."

As a stricter quarantine was observed due to the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) in NCR Plus in March, over 52,000 violators were recorded by the Philippine National Police (PNP). Darren Peñaredondo of Barangay Tejero in Cavite and Ernanie Jimenez of Barangay Turbina in Laguna are included on the list but what sets these two men apart from the majority of the violators is the fact that in the power on the puny hands of some

Christopher Jardine Capuno

barangay authorities, they lost their lives. According to Adrian Luceña, Peñaredondo’s cousin, the victim was forced to do a total of 300 rounds of exercise for the curfew violation. He added that the victim suffered from fatigue and seizures and died two days later. On the other hand, eyewitnesses and PNP Calamba reported that two barangay officials beat Jimenez to death after also violating curfew protocols to buy food.

In these dire times, the government and LGUs should double the efforts in assuring that officials will never resort to violence since some instances, especially in far-flung areas, are left undocumented and there might be some people who are also affected by this issue which is not given due attention by the authorities. Subsequently, PNP Chief Gen. Debold Sinas instructed the authorities on April 12 that

violators should just be warned — not arrested; however, should bloodshed happen first before emphasizing this matter? The lives of the victims have already marked their lack of authority and now, as time gets tougher, they should do everything to never let this happen again. In the end, effective yet humane plans should be exerted by the authorities to regain the trust of the people and to use their power in the right way – not to cause pain, but to end it.

editors-in-chief:

Lykha Mae Gonzales & Christopher Jardine Capuno

WEAR MASK & FACESHIELD

OBSERVE SOCIAL DISTANCING

FOLLOW PROTOCOLS

OPINION

ARE WE DOOMED?

COVID-FREE UBIANS

Artwork by: Vince Nigel Son

TRUTH BEARER

FRESH START

Lykha Mae Gonzales

fter four years under the thumb of a child stuck in a grown man’s body, that is Donald Trump, the United States of America finds itself rebuilding with Joe Biden to restore its integrity with initiatives based on compassion, understanding, and basic human rights — something America has not experienced for a long time.

TREE HUGGER Robert Patrick Talabis

"I only hope to see our country’s democracy and liberty be taken back just as how the Biden Administration swiftly took action into restoring their own."

In the months US President Joe Biden has been elected so far, promises of a more inclusive, safe, and sensitive country were fulfilled. In an embarrassing contrast with Trump signing 24 executive orders in his first 100 days of being in office, Biden signed 17 in his first day - nine of which directly reverses policies enacted by Donald Trump. This alone shows the current US administration’s eagerness to put together some semblance from the shambles Trump left. With Trump known for his outright hateful campaign of building a wall against the southern border of the country, one of Biden’s executive orders terminated the national emergency declaration that was used to fund the

construction of the border wall separating the US and Mexico. Along with this reversal, the current administration also stopped the withdrawal of the country from the World Health Organization, installed a coronavirus response coordinator, mandated mask wearing, and so much more to catch up with the COVID-19 response the country so desperately needed but was never given under the Trump administration. Alongside Kamala Harris, the first female, first black, and first Asian-American Vice President, the Biden Administration prides itself in emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and diversity. Among his orders included preserving the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

(DACA), preventing workplace discrimination against the LGBTQ Community, reversing the travel ban on Muslim and African countries, revising immigration policies, and more with hopes of forming a considerate leadership something the notoriously racist and misogynistic Trump was never able to show. I cannot help but be a little bit envious on the path the United States of America is currently on. However, with the world witnessing the downfall of one of the most unfit presidents of all time, my fellow youth could soon realize that we too have our own Donald Trump. Philippine elections are right around the corner and hopefully, the youth of the country could be our key to creating a fresh start.

GIVING PREVAILS

ilipinos never fail to manifest kindness and generosity in the face of crisis as numerous community pantries emerge throughout the Philippines.

The community pantries which dwell by the motto “Magbigay ayon sa kakayahan, kumuha batay sa pangangailangan” has spread like a virus across the country, inviting all Filipinos to practice our so-called ‘bayanihan’ amidst the pandemic. In the first place, community pantries exist as our state has weakened and has been unable to regularly provide the people’s needs. Ana Patricia Non, the founder of the Maginhawa Community Pantry, told Rappler that she started the pantry because she was tired of complaining, and tired of inaction. Nonetheless, we would like to commend the unwavering resiliency and camaraderie that Filipinos demonstrated in a situation where our physical mobility and resources are limited. Noel Silang, the supervising labor and employment officer of the Public Employment Service Office of Batangas City has also been inspired by this act of altruism as he spearheaded a community pantry in his locality of Cuta, Batangas.

“Mas magaling na ang tumulong kaysa ikaw ‘yung tinutulungan. Ang sakit sa dibdib ng nakakakita ng may nangangailangan,” Silang said during an interview. According to him, the sustainability of the pantry is the dilemma. Additionally, there are cases where he felt hesitant because he thought that some individuals were taking advantage of the community pantry. "Alas-syete ng umaga ang haba na agad ng pila. Hindi na yan aabutin ng 9:00, 8:00 ng umaga ubos na agad. Sa sobrang dami ng tao, minsan nauubusan pa ‘yung iba, di na sila naabutan ng supply,” Silang emphasized. “May dumating doon na tatlong kabataan, maayos naman silang manamit. Sabi nila, sir baka po pwedeng makahingi ng itlog. Sabi ko, walang-wala na ba kayo? Magkano lang ba ‘yung itlog, limang piso. Tumawa lang sila tapos kumuha pa sila ng tig-tatlong itlog, bale siyam. Iyon ‘yung pumapasok sa isip ko pero babalik lang talaga ako sa layunin namin which is to give at wala namang sinabi

kung kanino. The bottomline is we give,” he added. Oddly enough, it is the community taking initiative in response to the government’s shortcomings whereas it should be the other way around. As fellow citizens, in the end, we can only rely on ourselves to uplift and tend to each other’s needs when the time presents itself. Despite the recent red-tagging and backlash against community pantries, the modern ‘bayanihan’ movement continues to prosper as they uphold their true purpose which is to give. It really is admirable how this act of selflessness has been contagious throughout various communities. Imagine those who are able to put food on their table for the sake of their family, thanks to this generous gesture of Filipino compassion. Undoubtedly, the will to give encompasses all setbacks and disasters. The state may have failed us once again, but as always, the Filipino spirit prevails even during the darkest of times.

SERENDIPITY Kyle De los Reyes

"Our nation’s state might be in agony, but as Filipinos, we will not be swept by the heavy tides that come our way. Instead, we shall stand strong and hold our ground as we outlast the COVID-19 pandemic. This is our time to help each other in this time of outbreak."

"It seems like Filipinos are bound nowhere but to experience the never-ending cycle of uncertainty, as the government continues to turn a blind eye to this reality."

n terms of response to COVID-19, the country is lagging behind. With already a year battling the pandemic instead of moving forward, the Philippines went back to square one with the number of cases ballooning each day from 3,600 last April 2020 to 988,000 as of this moment. With that so clear, we are domed and it is time for the government to man up and fulfill their end of the bargain. From the average of 288 cases last year it suddenly surged to 8,770 average cases per day; we have not flattened the curve yet. On the brighter side of things, it was last March 4 when the country welcomed its first set of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccines; where in fact the Philippines is among the first countries in South East Asia to receive these vaccine. After this, things exactly get dark as the number of cases heavily increases that resulted once again to Enhanced Community Quarantine to the selected provinces in the country. With that being said, isn't it ironic that we already have vaccines yet the numbers of cases are still escalating? In the study made by ASEAN Studies Centre, a research institute on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Philippines ranked last among these ASEAN countries in terms of government response to the pandemic. Other neighboring countries like Vietnam had already provided a reliable solution for their country, as it already marked the average of 13 active cases per week. This is because of its active and responsive government unlike ours. What Filipinos see today as a government response is nothing but the bare minimum of what any country should do in the situation the world is put in. It is noteworthy when the government said that there is only a limited number of vaccines for the Filipinos in this year and still need to wait for more than five years to finally resolve this. On the contrary, the Philippines is already heavily in debt, billions specifically, yet still lack vaccines. We cannot even see any reliable actions from them compared to those independent bodies who are wholeheartedly giving their support to the country. However, the bottom line here is, yes, the government is doing something for the country and with that, they expect to see changes due to their so-called "efforts" and consistently use undisciplined citizens as an excuse, but could the blame really be passed on to the people who were only driven by the poor response of the government? But in any angle, it will not be enough to resolve this public health crisis. One year after the lockdown, and we are past the anniversary that is not in any way worth celebrating. If this persists to prolong, it is indeed true that the only danger we should really be fearing is not the virus, but rather our very own government instead - yes, we are doomed and it is no longer a question of who is to be blamed but, the fulfillment of a promise made when they were still not in power.

OPINION

editors-in-chief:

Lykha Mae Gonzales & Christopher Jardine Capuno

NO MORE KOWTOWING NEVER AGAIN KIT CAN TELL Kit Brian Dimatatac

“The Dutertes' are making it seem as though they are caving in to the clamor, instead of admitting that they concocted it.”

ara Duterte came out on top in a recent poll of presidential candidates and has made an eerily similar move to her father in opposing any plans to run for president on the spur of the moment. Why insist on it? President Rodrigo Duterte's six-year term ends in 2022, and he is not eligible for re-election. Incumbent presidents have been known to support a candidate, but only one president has ever been replaced by an ally. That may be something Duterte wants to alter. There is a rumor that Sara Duterte is taking her chances in the 2022 national election. She is currently the mayor of Davao, the family’s hometown, where her father was previously in the same position before being elected to presidency. The daughter of the Philippine president is running a campaign that is somewhere between a rumor and truth. The slogan "Run Sara Run!" has been appearing in major cities on banners created by the unknown "Friends of Sara". The idea of another Duterte in charge has thus been planted in the public mind. Last January, the president mentioned that his daughter was being encouraged to run for president, although

he had advised her not to as he found the role unsuitable for women. Sara Duterte has backed this up, saying she would rather stake her bid in 2034 because: “there's a chance they'll forget about me in 2034." Though public displays of modesty are admirable, President Duterte went from saying he had no interest in running for president to launching a full-fledged bid for it late in the 2016 campaign season. If the Dutertes became successful in halting the opposition candidates from winning, the nation faces a frightening prospect: more of the same. Sara Duterte may be the key to her father cementing his legacy that his leadership was willed into existence by the people. Seeing her become president would be her father’s testament to history, a political déjà vu, to tell generations that he was right to be so cruel and deceptive. Never again for Dutertes. Never again for this type of leadership. Never again.

t took our countrymen being chased by the Chinese Navy within our own waters protected by our sovereign rights and fearing for their safety to finally elicit a reaction from President Rodrigo Duterte regarding the West Philippine Sea issue. And yet, what we still get are words of concession and defeat. The commander-in-chief can call it whatever he wants - preserving friendship, avoiding war — his inaction against the People’s Republic of China’s continuous disregard on the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) ruling that won us the arbitration case and international laws, and his deliberate ignorance toward their expansive maritime agendas cannot be viewed other than what it is: a pure act of cowardice that should not be anymore tolerated. Last April 8, ABS-CBN journalist, Chiara Zambrano and her crew along with a few fishermen aboard a Filipino ship were tailed by two Houbei Type 22 missile fast attack craft on their way home from Ayungin shoal to mainland Palawan. The Filipino vessel was 90 nautical miles away from the main island, which is clearly within the country’s 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ). As senators and government agencies condemn yet another case of Chinese harassment, President Xi Jinping’s best friend sits idly in the palace with his tirades that we all know will encourage more incursions from these aggressors. In Duterte’s public address last April 19, he stated that the Chinese are allowed to fish in the West Philippine Sea as the abundance of fish in the area, apparently, is no concern for either parties, and that he will only deploy his warships once China starts drilling for oil. While this may come off as a bold remark, what he really is doing is sending mixed signals to Beijing. Instead of finally calling to bar entry for these trespassers, he sends an invitation to them to harass our fishermen going about their livelihood in the Julian Felipe Reef and Scarborough Shoal.

It will do no good to the current state of the Filipino fishermen who have long had their catches be confiscated by the Chinese. This type of kowtowing has emboldened Beijing in the previous years to push through with their maritime and territorial expansion in the South China Sea and to fully apply their “NineDash Line''. Duterte’s lack of action has basically led to, allegedly, 220 Chinese fishing boats being spotted near the Julian Felipe Reef last March 7, which drew concerns from the National Task Force for the West Philippine Sea as they believed that the ships were manned by “Chinese maritime militia personnel.” This is a clear weakness of our country’s foreign policy toward China and a wake up call for the government to strengthen it. However, interestingly, the president sees no other way to reclaim our territories and assert our jurisdiction over the Chinese other than starting a war. He said that the only way to take back the West Philippine Sea is by force and bloodshed. Perhaps, the president is forgetting that the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) has awarded us sovereignty over the area. We literally have the Association of

Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and international community’s support behind our backs, and one wrong move from China can invoke action and pressure from them. He needs to be reminded that disputes are not always settled through aggression as diplomacy and a little guts can do the work. According to former Chief Justice Antonio Carpio, the government can defend the West Philippine Sea — if they want to. The government should improve defense in the waters. We must take note of the way our neighbors, Vietnam and Indonesia, are handling the disputes while maintaining economic relations with China. Should things go South fast, we can also invoke the Mutual Defense Treaty of 1951 which states that the Philippines and the United States must support each other if an external party attacked either of them. It is the state and Duterte’s constitutional responsibility to protect our citizens, territory, and sovereignty. It should not risk another Filipino’s life for the government to take a stand against a clear bully. Cowards should not be allowed to lead a country; the Filipinos deserve much better.

SARCAST

Bjorn Del Deade

"I wasn’t informed that the words “best friends” have been redefined. The Chinese are taking what is ours and with little effort; it’s time for the president to finally grow a spine." wps update

As of May 9, 2021

287

CHINESE VESSELS Spotted in West Philippine Sea according to a report of National Task Force

LET THE SHOW BEGIN

ive from the Philippines' capital, Chinese News TV (CNTV), a nightly weekday news program delivered mainly in Mandarin Chinese began airing on ABS-CBN News Channel (ANC) on April 12. And even though the channel, fortunately, ended its airing after suffering from the backlash of the citizens two days later, China's show and propaganda are not yet over — if anything, it has only just begun.

WO R D S M I T H

Jayniah Vinielle Barza

"I was with everyone fighting during the franchise issue and it was ABS CBN’s betrayal that was a slap on my face, Not only it stain their reputation, but it depicted how true the #ABSCBNTutaNgChina can be."

Most criticisms were addressed to the Kapamilya network being an unbidden arm of China’s propaganda machine. It sparked outrage as it was aired on the same week where tensions between the Philippines and China over islands in the Spratlys ratcheted up. Particularly, it is the scene wherein Chiara Zambrano’s team was chased by destructive missiles for getting a scoop in the West Philippine Sea that spelled the network’s hypocrisy and betrayal at its finest. What made it worse is the ABS-CBN News Head Ging Reyes’ response, insisting that it does not do Beijing’s bidding when clearly, it does.

In a series of tweets on April 14, Reyes defended the agreement, stating that they are against “any discrimination” for the program was produced by fellow Filipinos who belong to the FilipinoChinese community. But enough of bringing out the discrimination card against us, when it is CNTV’s producers called the Horizon of the Sun Communications Inc that was behind Chinatown TV. It is the show that promotes China’s One Belt One Road initiative, not to mention the co-producer of ‘Iisang Dagat’ propaganda video that aimed to expand its control in the disputed waters. This alone is enough reason not to trust them.

If the activities are still not being a CCP propaganda machine, then what is it? At this point, I am more concerned about the implications of such actions by ABS-CBN in this time when our country's sovereignty is being held in contempt by Chinese state forces. But it seemed like it was a simple business decision by a cash-starved company to save employees from going jobless. Well, what could we expect? Business is business. Money talks, despite pushing an anti-China narrative for years. I am loud and proud to say that I do not stand with this

move of ABS-CBN. Although they have instantly pulled out the airing, the damage has been done. CNTV reports international headlines in Mandarin, having both English and Filipino as support languages but the choice of the vernacular itself was questionable as nearly thirds of the Chinoys know Hokkien. Regardless, this speaks volumes of the explicit message that it wanted to send across—ABSCBN is lurking its shadows “in the service of the Chinese” and not the Filipino. Indeed, the real show has begun, and it is something that we Filipinos would be eager to watch out for.

editors-in-chief:

Lykha Mae Gonzales & Christopher Jardine Capuno

OPINION

A RISKY MOVE

ith the COVID-19 pandemic continuously striking the country with its drastic impacts, significant margins in tax collections had escalated due to months of lockdown. As several businesses were put on hold with the back-and-forth implementation of community quarantines, it seems that the government is eyeing alternative methods to cover up these huge losses, putting the spotlight in the taxation of the digital economy. In May of 2020, Albay Representative Jose Maria Celemente Salceda filed the House Bill 6765 or the “Digital Economy Act of 2020”, a bill seeking to amend certain provisions in the Tax Code or the National Internal Revenue Code. The proposed bill primarily seeks to impose a 12-percent value-added tax (VAT) on digital advertising services, including social media platforms; subscriptionbased services such as music and video streaming platforms; and services and transactions rendered electronically such as the e-commerce platforms. Despite sounding good under the

ruling of Philippine taxation due to the projected P29 billion of tax revenues to be generated if passed into law, a lot of issues and complexities may arise in taxing digital transactions. One of the issues to be addressed is the fact that HB. 6765 is targeting to collect a higher amount of tax in services such as electronic publishing or e-books, appearing to subject the selling of e-books to VAT. In this time of pandemic where the new norm of education is through online classrooms, it is necessary to make e-books more affordable by recognizing their exemption to VAT in order to ease the burden of students who are in the midst of economic and

health crisis. Another issue that needs to be considered is the nonresidents’ requirement to set up a representative office. In the proposal, “a non-resident shall have the privilege to render digital services in the Philippines as a network orchestrator or as an electronic commerce platform exclusively through a representative office, or an agent which shall be a resident corporation in the Philippines.” This is in contrast of the Philippine law which states that a representative office is technically not allowed to generate revenue in the country. Given these measures and

complexities brought by the HB. 6765, it seems that a lot of factors are left unconsidered and can bring greater issues if not addressed properly, making it seem that the government is prioritizing revenue over more complex considerations. With this, the government must establish a balancing move in the taxation of the digital economy, with local and foreign factors taken into consideration. In the current situation of the country, certain factors such as conflicts between the law and the proposed bill should be studied and analyzed carefully to avoid putting the welfare of the public into jeopardy.

HERETIC’S GAME

S U N DAY B E S T Van Aeros Torres

"You do not help them if you and your tiny dirty fingers gamble their lives. You are just simply giving them some false hopes."

And it hurts me already as I ponder about those 700 and more killed activists who fought for civil and agricultural rights. It is not everyday that I hear stories about them, but the burden that they have left still exists behind their family’s backyards — waiting to be burned in ashes. And I would love to play the blame game. If it wasn’t because of the officials' itch for corruption, those families who live in marginalized communities would not be left hanging barely onto their Ayudas. “Under this law, critical environmental areas have been opened up to mining, prioritizing profit over a

Nhel Gutierrez

"Taxing the digital economy involves careful considerations of certain conflicts which the government must take into account before executing its deciding moves."

letter to the editor

t is poverty that we have to kill, not the poor. As Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte signed the EO No. 130 on April 14, 2021 that lifted the ban on mining, the administration backed up the said move with its usual excuse — it being a solution to the anguish brought by the pandemic. It was then praised by Malacañang Spokesperson Harry Roque as he claimed that with the county’s TRAIN law, the country will receive more from mining than it did from the past years. That is, if corruption is not a thing. But the Philippine Church believes that it is the other way around. “The decision will only favor business interests, not the people, especially poor,” Kidapawan’s Bishop Jose Bagaforo said in an interview. I'm not a “killjoy” on whatever fetish that this administration has with seeing someone grasp for final tunes. I just don't see the silver lining that lies beyond lifting the ban.

R E C KO N I N G

healthful ecology,” SOS Yamang Bayan Network emphasized. But I hope that they look into more ways especially with the Mining Act of 1995, an eco-friendly legislation that protects local communities and the indigenous people who live in it. Yet, knowing this administration, I fear that they’ll just pop a joke out of my sentiment and slap me with a subpoena instead. So if you don’t hear from me anytime soon, you might find me in a court defending the poor and the filthy smell of their long-dead ancestors’ dreams, or I might be buried beside this heretic’s critics.

ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS To the editors, As far as I can remember, it was stated in the guidelines that the students have two days a week intended for asynchronous classes. Yet the university still pushed through in bombarding us with synchronous classes for a straight week that I believe is too much for this has caused a lot of stress and pressure in absorbing the lessons on our part. Richmond Gloria G12-Harrington Dear Mr. Gloria, It is with gratitude to know that you sent a message. I am with you with your concern however, let us apprehend that the teachers are only following the mandated instructions to prepare us for a higher level of education. Rest assured that the school publication would be an avenue for the administration to resolve such issues raised by the students. Lykha Gonzales Editor-in-Chief, TWP

WHAT IS THE GOVERNMENT DOING?

GRADUATION SCHEDULE

s families hop from hospital to hospital begging for accommodation, patients desperately waiting in line for days on end, and COVID-19 patients dying in the parking lots of overcrowded hospitals we realize how far the government has come in battling this pandemic –not so far. What is the government doing? Philippines announced last April 26 more than one million cases of COVID-19 infections, hitting a harrowing milestone jafter 102 accredited hospital providers across CALABARZON and Metro Manila disclosed regrettably that they have reached the maximum capacity for patients with the virus. As the cases continue to surge, tents become emergency rooms. An opportunity for PhilHealth to regain people’s trust. Yet, according to Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Ferdinand Gaite, some patients had to

pay P1,000 per hour without PhilHealth coverage upon admission, if they are lucky enough to get into a tent. If that isn’t too much for a few hours of professional consultation in a tent, I don’t know what is. Adding insult to injury, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque managed to snag a room at Philippine General Hospital after he tested positive for the virus. When asked how he was given a bed in the hospital he answered, “That is an unchristian question.” His dodging of questions requires explanation as his ‘jumping the line’ is an insult

to those who waited fairly. In response, the government must consider the health worker’s proposal of establishing a command center that can dispatch ambulances, refer patients to the appropriate quarantine facilities. It is never too late for the government to redeem themselves from past failures because we’ve already cried ourselves dry, and for what, more incompetence? Hopefully, not. With all these happening with minimal effective response, what is the government doing?

To the Editors,

MAN UP

Antoine Clarence Miranda

"With the government’s lack of regard to the current pandemic situations, we are treading dangerous waters. What will become of us now?"

It has come to our attention that the Senior High’s graduation is set to commence on the second week of June which I think is taking too long to occur. Hence, we are asking that it would be better if the university could move the said date into an earlier date as we have already complied with the necessary requirements for completion. Mark Ilagan G12-Batanes Dear Mr. Ilagan Thank you for sending us a message. The University of Batangas has always been making efforts to make sure that students are receiving the quality education they deserve; thus resulting to necessary adjustments with the date of graduation. In the meantime, let us be considerate with the teachers and be open to changes as the university is working for the student’s best interests. Christopher Jardine Capuno Editor-in-Chief, TWP

FEAT

When the

Dillemas Schools of a

Online

went

Reconnecting with the students and teachers after a year of online classes

How Mr. Noel Silang is helping neighbors in Brgy. Cuta, Batangas City through his Community Pantry

Christopher Jardine Capuno

Bjorn Del Deade

CARTOON

Artwork by: Vince Nigel Son

f all the “firsts” they have enjoyed and reminisced, students and teachers of the University of the Batangas agree that their first year of online distance education will be something daunting to look back on. The COVID 19 pandemic has forced the country into a year of lockdown, leaving the education institutions to resort to a “blended learning” program launched by the Department of Education (DepEd). The University of Batangas followed the mandate and implemented online classes or online distance learning in the school, presenting new challenges to the students and teachers, and causing a dire urgency to adjust to a new type of normalcy. They did, some almost successfully, some just barely. “Gan’on pa rin po yung morning routine: waking up, taking a bath, and eating,” Sarah Matuto, grade 10, said in an online interview. “But instead of going out early to wait for a ride, napalitan po ito ng pagreready ng device for the synchronous meeting.” DISCONNECTED In October and November 2020, Super Typhoon Rolly and Typhoon Ulysses, respectively, battered several regions in Luzon, especially the Bicol Region. Hundreds lost their lives, thousands were displaced, and billions worth of damages were amassed. Through it all, G12 HUMSS student, Hannah Mari Tan was thinking about one thing: how she was going to attend classes the next day. “Personally, I thought it was unfair for my side,” she said in an online interview. “Deadlines and exams kept on coming, but I had

no choice but to adjust.” She said that returning to Batangas City to continue her education posed a ton of hassle, from strict health protocols to important paper and documents. “So, I stayed here and continued what I had started, even though I was on the verge of giving up,” she said. With the help of her friends and teachers, she was able to soldier on. “My situation became less complicated, and I was able to overcome it.” OFF CAMERA The school year was not going to be the same like the previous years, so Mr. Edmund R. Caraos, Philosophy and Personality Development Teacher, and Head of the senior high school Social and Behavioral Science Department created a new daily routine. “I’d always see to it that I wake up early for my synchronous classes,” Mr. Caraos said. Aside from that, he also incorporated “kamustahan” sessions before formally starting his classes to lessen their stress and “keep them sane.” But off camera, it was a whole different battle for educators like him, especially during their preparations for the online classes. “I wasn’t really sure of what’s going to happen, and figuring out how to be an effective educator in this new normal created worries and more uncertainties,” he said.“Everything seemed to be new, but it was not normal.”

However, knowing that he and his students go through the same, Mr. Caraos’ penchant for teaching allowed him to surpass all obstacles. “Learning how to embrace it [the new normal] just keeps me going, as an educator and as a human person as well.” RECONNECTING For 1st year accountancy student, Jeyrhonn Cena— who, like other college students, is entering a make-or-break phase in his life—to be able to continue his education is a privilege he can’t just give up. According to him, Despite some minor setbacks, he was still lucky as he still got to study with a complete set of gadgets. “Marami sa amin ang nawalan na ng gana,” he said. “Ako lang ang pinagaaral aking magulang kaya kahit sobrang hirap, magsisikap ako.” Through all the the power and internet connectivity issues, he will persevere.

With the current situation, the students and teachers don’t see the school holding face-toface classes next year, and learning during this moment in history will stay the same. So, for now, as these obstacles and interruptions happen, they’ll just have to reconnect and look forward to another year of online classes, hoping that they’ll get to worry about nothing else, besides being students and educators.

hen newbie community pantry organizer, Mr. Noel Silang watched as th apiece for themselves while letting out feign chuckles, he was so tempt

But he knew that there are a lot of people in need and the cause is far larger than this encounter. “Tugon ito sa pangangailangan ng taga-Batangas City as of the moment,” he said in an online interview. “I have to do something, in my own little ways, para makatulong sa ibang tao.” His questions about what will become of the pandemic have all been left unanswered. Until finally, establishing a community pantry gave him an answer to one: “What can we do for now?” BANDAGING THE BEATEN Started by the Maginhawa Community Pantry in Quezon, the month of April saw a surge of pantries across the country,

eventually reaching Batangas City. On April 19, Silang visited one in Brgy. Dos near Calumpang to donate eggs and bottles of cooking oil, which left him a bit conflicted. “Sabi ko, ‘Why did I give it to them?’ Ganoon din dito sa amin sa Cuta, mas marami ang nangangailangan,” he recounts. On April 20, he established a community pantry in Brgy. Cuta. “Ramdam ko kasi barangay namin na ang dami dami talagang nangangailangan,” he expressed. Donations from kind volunteers, friends, and organizations then came flowing in, encouraging Noel and his colleagues to keep this noble

cause going. BEING THE PR LEVITE However, in th Mr. Silang was left dilemma. Since the situated near a ma opens at around 7: from different bara come to pick up go families. This would leave his Cuta neig shortage of food fo backed into a corn “Baka naman s na araw ‘yong com [Brgy. Cuta] ang m maagang dumatin ibang lugar,” he wo To solve it, Mr.

n this period of history when contact spells peril, when socialization brings anxiety, and when emptiness gives company, clutching our hands in prayer and professing our faith gave us momentary relief that we all needed. It has erased the distances that kept us apart and created connections amid the disparities. Tragedy after tragedy, the darkness keeps on unfolding, but unearthed with it are stories of unity, of kindness, and of hope that were prompted by our devotion. We have been gifted with the faith that will save us; it is our duty to pass it on to rise from the rubble and become six feet closer — together.

TURE

A Look

How these Batangueña frontliners fight their own battles during this pandemic Bjorn Del Deade Artwork by: Justin Anthony Aleta

hree decently dressed teenagers, who seemed well off, took three eggs ted to give them a little extra.

RIEST OR THE

he next few days, with a moral e pantry was ajor road and :00 am, people angays would oods for their d sometimes ghbors with a or the day. He’s ner. sa mga susunod mmunity namin mawalan kasi ng itong mga taga orried. . Silang and

his partner decided to ration the food and planned to only open on weekends. “‘Yon ang fear namin e, yung sustainability of the pantry,” he explains. The plan is working well, and the residents are receiving enough food to get them through the day. “Babalik pa rin ako sa point na ang layunin is to give. Wala naman kaming sinabi namin sa layunin na, ‘kanino?’” LOVING HIS NEIGHBOR Noel has spent his high school years roaming the halls of St. Francis de Sales Minor Seminary in Lipa, Batangas asking for donations and pledges from sponsors to fund his education. Today, he’s the one giving

back, as the Supervising Labor and Employment Officer of the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) of Batangas City. Through his social media and his available means, Mr. Silang and his colleagues continue to sustain their community pantry and serve their fellow Batangueños. He recalls one time when a woman grabbed 5-6 strings of spinach and told him that she had 15 mouths to feed. To which he replied, “Masarap pong adobohin ‘yan.” That woman left relieved, knowing that she’ll be able to feed her family. And that makes Mr. Noel Silang more eager to help and give people in need… a little extra.

Artwork by: Vince Nigel Son

n a short letter written on a folded piece of paper, it read: “To the doctors and nurses who took care of us for almost a month, we thank you all so much. You all are our heroes.”

Artwork by: Vince Nigel Son

It’s one of those simple acts of gratitude that keeps one of the recipients, Batangueña frontliner, Mrs. Evangeline O. Balitaan, going. It’s a momentary distraction from the grim reality they’ll have to face every time they put on their personal protective equipment (PPE). According to the Department of Health, as of May 24, 2021, the country has a nationwide tally of 1,184,706, which comprised 48,917 or 4.1% active cases and a death toll of 19,983. In Batangas City, the record shows a total of 5,196 cases and 177 deaths. While for us, citizens, these daily numbers mean a longer lockdown. For the frontliners, however, they mean longer days. And these are days they will have to fight through no matter what the cost or instance, even if they had their own set of battles to fight; here are their stories. ‘MY WORLD TURNED UPSIDE DOWN’ Mrs. Evangeline O. Balitaan has been working as an administrative aide in the City Health Office of Batangas City for 4 years. Then in April 2020, she was pulled out to work as a nurse in the Batangas City Temporary Treatment and Monitoring Facility. Ever since, she’s been enduring 24 hours of being drenched in sweat and stifling heat in her PPE as she assessed patients, calming them down however she can from behind her desk. Not too long will she experience what it’s like to be on the opposite side. “My world turned upside down no’ng nagkaroon ako ng COVID 19,” Mrs. Balitaan recalled. “Sobrang lungkot ko kasi mag-isa lamang akong lumalaban sa room sa facility.” But because of her loved ones’ support, it became better. She was in extreme isolation with company— a paradox at best. Finally, after a few weeks, she stepped

out of her room as a recovered patient, and once more—as a frontliner, ready to go back to the frontlines to help people and achieve her childhood dream. “Lagi kong sinasabi simula pa [no’ng] bata pa ako, I always love to care,” she said. “Caring and serving people is my passion and calling, so I am proud to be a frontliner.” ‘DASAL ANG NAG-IISA NATING SANDATA’ Like Evangeline, Ms. Lailanie Ann M. Engay, was also pulled out from her job in the Jesus of Nazareth hospital to work in the temporary quarantine facility. It has been more than a year since this pandemic started. Nevertheless, the stress of the job didn’t let her forget her most memorable moment as a young medical student when she passed the nursing licensure exam. “Alam ko na ito ang stepping stone para sa pangarap ko sa akin at sa aking pamilya,” she said. Although, initially this wasn’t her decision, over time, she has grown to love the profession and decided to pursue it. But the pandemic was no exam that had quick answers. Thus, Ms. Engay turned to who she could turn to. From then on, prayer became a daily routine for her as she braces herself for the work she has ahead, a routine she has yet failed to follow. “Dasal ang nag-iisa nating sandata sa araw-araw pakikibaka,” she expressed. Today, as the numbers continue to go up, everyone still ceaselessly searches for the right words for their prayers. And frontliners like. Mrs. Evangeline Balitaan and Ms. Lailanie Engay try their best to provide the answers as they head to their facilities in their PPEs, mustering the courage to fight the battle. The letter continued: “Just coming to work and putting your lives on the line with all difficulties, constraints, and challenges are more than heroic and go beyond the mere call of duty. We salute you, and we are really proud of you,” signed Room 7.

FEATURE editors: Bjorn Del Deade & Christopher Jardine Capuno

HOW PIONEER TV SHARED THE STORIES OF HOPE TO THE BATANGUEÑOS

An Organization’s Drive to Battle Life’s Unexpected Villains Kyle Ezra De Los Reyes

Artwork by: Clarisse Jenn Baloy

hile many people had just come across the non-profit organization, Bayan-I, would get confused with the somewhat odd spelling and pronunciation of the organization’s name, one thing stays crystal clear for them: they remain intact with achieving their mission and vision of serving the public and raising awareness to issues people need to know about.

From the rumblings and destruction of a volcanic eruption, through the whistling and battering winds of typhoons, and into the eerie silence and fear of a pandemic, Bayan-I is here to battle the villains—the ones people do not expect. Founded by its current president, Ian Zachary Casapao, a newly graduate of Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at University of Batangas, the humble beginnings of the organization took place in one the proudest moments of his life. In 2019, he was awarded the “Mga Bagong Rizal” Award, which was given to 17 deserving recipients from all over the country. And what he heard that night would then echo into his heart and into his principles as a student servant. “Lahat tayo ay may kakayanang maging bayani,” he said in an online interview, recalling the guest speaker’s words of inspiration. “Kailangan lang nating piliin ang BAYAN bago ang I.” However, back then, Mr. Casapao’s small band of volunteers were just taking in the donations for the evacuees of the Taal Volcano eruption in January 2020, despite them being evacuees themselves. Only when Bayan-I launched its first project, “Project HEAL-ing” did the organization gain formal recognition and traction. “Bayan-I were able to collect funds to help two beneficiaries with sever illnesses (a cancer and lupus warrior),” Bayan-I posted on their Facebook page. From there, their reach grew, and sponsors, and willing volunteers and advisory board joined and pledged their support. The organization was able to do projects like “Project Sa-GIFT'' that helped the victims of typhoons during October and November, and “Project EDUCASH-ON'' that provided financial aid to students during this pandemic. “Laging manatili tayo sa dahilan kung bakit tayo nag-simula—ang laging pagpili natin sa bayan bago ang sarili,” he reiterated. With their mission and vision as their shields, and their advocacies and principles as their swords, Bayan-I continues to serve the public and uphold the values of students' servanthood, battling reality—one unexpected villain at a time.

Christopher Jardine Capuno

Artwork by: Clarisse Jenn Baloy

he pandemic has brought the episodes of despair and fear that show almost no signs of coming to a halt, and undoubtedly, it was also tough for the Filipinos to bear the pain of being on the front row seats and witnessing these adversities right before their eyes.

But just when times get tougher, a pilot episode from an online platform called Pioneer TV was aired on the 5th of November, giving the Batangueños a sign to momentarily pause such episodes of negativity and tune in to the stories where progress, unity, and hope can be seen and felt—now more than ever. The 4-episode initiative was spearheaded by the publication team in hopes of tackling timely and relevant news in the province through innovative methods of using social media platforms such as Facebook. According

to Mr. Michael Justin De Mesa, one of the publication advisers, this was launched to propagate truthful information for the UBians and to continue the pursuit of finding unique stories that will uplift the community in the midst of the pandemic. Since it was also difficult for the publication to distribute hard copies of campus papers because of the cancellation of face-toface classes, Pioneer TV became a way for the students to still be informed and updated even in the comfort of their homes. “In these trying times, when we all are

overwhelmed with the immense presence of negativities, Pioneer TV is not only a platform, but a light, a guide, a ray of hope for Batangueños to be in the know and to further get through the day”, De Mesa said. It served as the channel for people to keep in touch with the latest developments and news in Batangas but for some, it was also a chance to finally share their inspiring stories to thousands of viewers—and Michelle Mendoza, a mother of a 13-year-old child with late development, is no exception. In the last episode, Mendoza was able to

What ‘Bloody Sunday’ means to Student Activists Kyle Ezra De Los Reyes & Bjorn Del Deade

or the activists of the CALABARZON region, Sunday, March 7, 2021 was not a typical church day. In a series of crackdown operations of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) on activists and dissenters, nine were killed and six were arrested in Laguna, Rizal, and Batangas, provinces surrounding capital region Metro Manila for allegedly being in possession of weapons and grenades. This gave birth to the infamous title, “Bloody Sunday” and was heavily condemned by students, mass organizations and human rights organizations, and government officials, as it was another case of killings by state forces. “The Southern Luzon

raids were apparent politically motivated killings that the police and military have sought to justify with unconvincing justifications that echo ‘drug war’ claims,” Phil Robertson, deputy Asia director of Human Rights Watch in an article by Gerg Cahiles, CNN Philippines. For activists and organizations, this, again, was an attempt of the the state to assert their authority and threaten these civilians from legally criticizing the government, sending a clear message as to who the Filipinos’ real enemy is. Nevertheless, they, especially student

impart her experiences as a mother of a child with special needs and how she continues to brave the tough course of life for her children. Despite living in poverty, she shared how abundant her love is for her family and how she treated his child’s condition as a blessing. “Nagiging daan ang Pioneer TV para maiparating sa mga manonood na may mga taong salat man sa buhay at nakikipaglaban sa mapaglarong mundo, pero nananatili pa ring matatag,” she explained. Pioneer TV also paved a big way for many to extend

activists, remain unfazed, perhaps, even more enraged by this incident. “It was the kind of anger one cannot even verbalize,” Hannah Dimaano, a college student of University of Batangas, and member of Anakbayan-Batangas, said in an online interview. “The Filipinos have been suffering from the pandemic on top of everything, and to hear that there has been another crackdown is more than enraging.” While it is valid to feel hopeless now, according to her, this battle for the marginalized and oppressed farmers and fisherfolk, and indigenous peoples is a long and hard one, all the more reason they continue furthering their cause. “Ang mga

a helping hand towards those who are in need, such as Michelle and her family, through donations. “Nagsisilbi silang boses naming mahihirap”, Mendoza added. The country might still have a long way to go before the fight against the pandemic ends and for everything to return to normal. However, amidst the faces of bleakness, Pioneer TV is a click away to air the inspiring stories of Batangueños as a reminder that there is still hope, and that in no time, people will eventually witness a finale — where these episodes of despair will no longer foster.

masa, ang magpapatuloy ng laban para sa karapatan ng mga mamamayan,” she expressed. “[…] at the end of the day, the mandate of our hearts would always be to fight and keep fighting for and with the oppressed,” she expressed. Student activists and mass organizations will remember Bloody Sunday not as a lesson to stop and be silenced but to speak out more and stand with the people, so that on Sundays people will be thanking God for their blessings — and not praying for justice. “Para saan ba ang galit nating ito? Natatapos ba ang lahat sa nagpupuyos na himutok natin kay Duterte? Hindi. Kailangan nating magsalita at lumaban, dahil hindi nawawasak ang pasismo sa pananahimik.”

aktibista at mga estudyante, karamay ang

Artwork by: Clarisse Jenn Baloy

editors:

Bjorn Del Deade & Christopher Jardine Capuno

FEATURE

Inside the challenging world of commissioning Bjorn Del Deade & Christopher Jardine Capuno

T N E R E F F I D A G N I S S PA

What surviving COVID 19 looks like from the eyes of a student Bjorn Del Deade

Artwork by: Justin Anthony Aleta Artwork by: Vince Nigel Son

ommission artists thought that all they had to do was to meet the deadlines. They weren’t told about the perils that await them. Nevertheless, they still had to endure all of it to survive this pandemic. Now, students are entering this world and the prevailing culture of disrespect, under-appreciation, and undervaluing of Filipino artists and art in the country, are proving that this job is as real as it can get. “A lot still has the ‘eh drawing lang naman yan’ mentality without considering what artists go through to produce good art,” Ms. Jan Villanueva, a Fine Arts graduate from University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Arts and Design, said in an online interview. “We spend not just money, but also our time, to improve ourselves and our craft; we have to learn continuously, just like any profession that exists,” she added. Taro, not his real name, started doing commissions last April 2020. He is an animator and does full body artworks for $45 and fully rendered artworks for $65. He was able to earn more than enough as a grade-12 student and show his kindness as he donated P1,000 pesos to the victims of Typhoon Ulysses. However, often Taro doesn’t get to receive that kind of kindness from his clients. Just last October, a foreign client of his did not only discredit him but also paid him below their agreed-upon rate. For Taro, this encounter stemmed from underlying issues of racism. He believes that, with him being a beginner artist together with the high exchange rate of dollars to pesos ($1.00 = P48.04 as of December 2), the client assumed that the fee he paid was big and reasonable enough for the quality of his artwork. Commission artists know that there is another dangerous and unfair world beyond the deadlines. And unless clients learn how to make art and write the same way these people do, commission artists and writers will continue to demand what they’re worth and will continue to fight this battle against the culture of disrespect toward Filipino artists and writers — for the income and for the art.

ontracting the COVID-19 virus was a test Love Juharra Brozoto, 18-year-old student of San Pascual Senior High School, did not study for.

Around that time, Love was just going about her new normal, where she was taking care of her nephew and family, and was preparing for her first day of classes. It was a time where she was just a daughter and student. Then, tragedy struck when her older sister started developing symptoms, like dry cough, and loss of smell and taste. However, knowing that she was strictly adhering to the health protocols mandated by the Department of Health (DOH) and being preoccupied in the household, Love was complacent that she didn’t have the virus. “I was asymptomatic at first, so wala akong naramdaman na [symptoms] like coughs, fever and panunuyo ng lalamunan,” Love Brozoto said in an online interview. On September 14, 2020, where the health centers and facilities found themselves

in shambles, as the DOH saw a record-high number of fatalities in a single day, tallying 259 deaths, and a total of 265,88 COVID 19 cases all over the country. The local frontliners called her and her family, and it was finally confirmed: she was part of the statistic. “We felt scared and anxious at the same time, kasi matanda na ang mother ko and may baby kami sa bahay,” she recalled. And to go through all this as a graduating student who was just about to enter the new school year, Love felt that the classes were over before it even began. According to her, anxiety and desolation loomed over her, for not only were her academics at stake ( with the high possibility of missing requirements and lagging behind the first weeks), her health and mental stability were also going to be put to the test.

For her, the term “hell week” took on a different meaning in the week that followed. She and her family were not confined, as they only showed mild symptoms but they were transferred to a hotel located in Balagtas, Batangas city to be monitored by frontliners. Everyday, nurses would enter the room to check on them, keeping track of their oxygen levels, temperature, blood pressure, and other vital signs. Everyday, for 3 times, they would check if they have taken their medicine. Every time the door opened, both uncertainty from the virus and comfort from the frontliners’ care creep in. “Every night ako umiiyak no’n, kasi ang dami ko rin iniisip that time: kung paano ba kami, ang business namin, pag-aaral ko, ang lahat,” she recalled. It was all too overwhelming for her, especially that she was a graduating student.

Nevertheless, Love knows she had to keep on fighting and praying for fast recovery for that reason. Thus, she took all measures advised by the frontliners and her family. She took care of herself. And with the kindness of her teacher, who gave her enough time to catch up, and the solidarity of her friends, she overcame the battle. Around September 28, 2020, she tested negative. She caught up with her academics and gained good grades. This was a test no one could ever prepare for, much more so when one is still just a student. And Love Brozoto got to learn that the hard way. It was a test of strength and resilience—and she passed it. Now, she is going to graduate, and she can finally brace herself for what she can and has been preparing for—her future.

INFOGRAPHICS

HOPE: 6,700

community pantries scattered across the Philippines Source: Rappler News

n these difficult times, the world witnessed how the pandemic blatantly stole vast opportunities, livelihood, and above all, lives. But just when despair seeped in and hope seemed scarce for some, these rays of positivity and development arise to give everyone a sign that hope still exists— and it will prevail no matter what.

drop by

rises to

PH average daily COVID-19 cases

7-day average of vaccinated individuals

10%

Source: OCTA Research

108,540

Source: Rappler News

editors:

Robert Patrick Talabis & Ranier Villanueva

Science & Technology

featured story

MISTS AMIDST THE PANDEMIC Turn to page 13

CORONAVIRUS VACCINES

Source: Respective Companies, The Lancet, Butantan Institute, Senator Sonny Angara's Office

PFIZER 95%

Efficacy Rate

Estimated Price (2 doses)

Php 2,379

ASTRAZENECA 70%

editorial proper

From a Mile Away

94%

UB SHS hailed as Overall Champion through Genetics Camp Mishal Enriquez

ast April 19, the University of Batangas Senior High School Department was named overall champion in the UPLB Genetics Society Genetics Camp 2021, adding pride and glory to the institution. Alexandrei Garcia, Vhera Hernandez, Lorenz Punzalan, and Vince Son were named champions of the GENErate: A Breakthrough Video Contest. In addition, Julyan Mendoza finished third in the Essay Writing competition, which was coached by Mr. Charles Roxas and Ms. Domycel Gilera respectively. . In an online interview, Robert Talabis, champion of the Digital Poster Making Contest mentioned that he had to go through a preliminary screening inside the Senior High School Department in order for them to select who they would choose for the contest. It was between him and another student artist but fortunately, Robert was chosen to compete. Meanwhile, even if there isn't a pandemic, the University of Batangas has passed on their brahman genes to their ubians, with the aim of rising and striding. Despite their accomplishments, they remained well-known to their rivals as the overall champion.

for informed policy-making, the country loses sight of the science of everyday life and the struggles researchers must overcome, especially during these uncertain times. Although a local COVID Test Kit was developed in relatively quick response by the UP National Institute of Health, the Philippine Genome Center, and The Manila HealthTek Inc. in March 2020, this was not a result from the government’s focus on research and development but instead a result of years of research on RNA virus behavior for the development of a

sci-tech feature

Exploring

Hologram Projectors in Learning Environments Robert Patrick Talabis

t is no doubt that classes could get dull from time to time especially in synchronous classes where students are prone to being inactive. But with the hologram projector developed by students from the Grade 12 STEM Engineering Strand, a student’s learning environment reached a whole new dimension.

PHOTO BY Robert Patrick Talabis

PROJECTING INNOVATION The hologram projector by students from Grade 12 Lithium is able to project images in a three dimensional spaces for a more interactive learning experience.

Php 610

Efficacy Rate

Estimated Price (2 doses) Php 3,904- PHP 4,504

SINOVAC

ontroversially known as a country that puts little value into Science and Technology, the Philippines is surely suffering in one of the biggest health crises for the obvious reason of belittling scientific efforts to focus on greedy and selfish endeavors that do not contribute to the upbringing of the field to benefit the people. was to be expected. Being in such an underfunded yet vital field, resources have been limited and prioritized to productbased researches. Despite being beneficial in a concrete manner, the execution of such has been rushed for the sake of profit considering that the development of products such as drugs and medicine could take up to 1015 years yet the government wants something that could be sold and marketed or patented within two years. Because of the disregard for basic research which aims to deepen understanding

Estimated Price (2 doses)

MODERNA

50%

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, funding for research and development within the country has been a major barrier to progressing in the field. In 2015, the UNESCO Institute of Statistics stated that there are only 198 researchers per million inhabitants in the Philippine and 0.2% of the country’s gross domestic expenditure is spent on research and development, both being significantly lower than the global average. With the field ill-equipped with human resources due to the lack of funds, the country’s current standing on the pandemic

Efficacy Rate

dengue test kit. Even then, from yearly decrease and cutback on budgets for government sectors focusing on science, it was merely a strike of luck grounded from previous problems that were still a struggle to solutionize due to disregard. It would seem to be an obvious thing to say that society must listen to science in order to progress. But with how current expenditures are handled to focus more on military force or personal and corrupt initiatives, the country could have seen our current situation coming from miles away.

In the research paper made by Robert Talabis, Carl Matias, Rafhael Rosales, and Earl Tupas, the main focus was geared towards tackling the problem of declining student performance through the use of a hologram projector. They hoped to develop the product to boost interest amongst students through the use of quality 3D presentations that would increase information retention in an affordable method. The product itself is made out of acrylic glass cut in a way that would form a trapezoidal pyramid which is to be placed over a light source. Its shape would be applicable for the Pepper’s Ghost effect, an effect that is applied for cheap illusions of holograms. With the evaluation of the product done in the paper, the study concluded that the hologram projector outperforms conventional media by 11% in information retention, 18% in audience interest, and 17% in presentation quality for a cost of Php 320 for the acrylic projector. “With how the situation today sets up students to be prone to disinterest, we felt the need to innovate on how information should be presented. After all, us students shouldn’t settle for anything less than quality education.” the team expressed. Through the efforts of students in their research disciplines, the university continues to fulfill its objective of being a research-driven environment.

Efficacy Rate

Estimated Price (2 doses)

Php 3,639.50

With the surge in COVID-19 cases

Treatment Facilities in Batangas Medical Center set to open in May Ranier Villanueva

PHOTO BY Barako PH

THREE-WAY RESPONSE. With the initiative of Department of Health (DOH), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and Batangas Medical Center (BatMC) for the treatment and management of COVID-19 patients in Batangas City.

epartment of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has finished constructing a new temporary treatment facility for coronavirus diseases (COVID-19) patients at the Batangas Medical Center, one of the Department of Health's (DOH) apex hospitals in the CALABARZON region. According to DPWH Secretary Mark Villar, the off-site facilities are now being planned to provide additional healthcare services to patients from Batangas and neighboring provinces. Also, considering ways to help the need for capacity expansion as the Batangas City scrambles to find more room for COVID-19 patients. To assist Batangas City in dealing with COVID-19 reports, three cluster facilities were completed, one of which included a 10-room intensive care unit (ICU) equipped with closed-circuit television surveillance for moderate to severe COVID patients and a 21-room isolation and observation center for mild symptoms cases. The facility with completed civil works and medical equipment installation and set-up should be ready by the first week of May 2021 to handle the surge in cases, including spillover patients from Metro Manila and areas in the Southern Tagalog. And the interconnected government will improve the consistency and reliability of frontline programs, benefiting the public greatly.

editors:

Robert Patrick Talabis & Ranier Villanueva

sci-tech feature

amidst the

q Disinfectant Sprayer Piping System for UBML

Ranier Villanueva

Robert Patrick Talabis

Ineffective solutions will never save lives, in the midst of the current health crisis. Nothing is proven yet to justify sufficient progress,

hese days, we see what a replay feels like to escalating a disastrous scenario for the sake of Ivermectin as a COVID-19 treatment. The fact that it is patently wrong and even risky, rumors are rife that the medication was intentionally blocked. Controversy arose over the interim examination of a previously refuted argument to use a controversial anti-parasitic drug.

That was a shocking turn of events, considering the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) adamant resistance to the drug's use as an anti-COVID-19 injection. It has not been shown that it greatly reduces morale or improves such health results. According to Eric Domingo, Director General of the FDA, the drug was an investigational medicine with pending clinical trials on its effectiveness against COVID-19. Nonetheless, without a proper prescription, the drug could not be deemed beneficial or legal, nor could it be marketed to the general public. Through honest labeling of Ivermectin demonstrates how Philippine societyincluding authorities- ignore and even casually violates law, and regulations intended to protect the public from charlatans and scofflaws. The panel's consensus, according to a joint statement released by the FDA and the Department of Health (DOH), is that there is no scientific basis to prove that Ivermectin acts against the virus based on available data from randomized control trials. Although they become more common, there is an alarming lack of safety data in the majority of studies. Openly defying both health authorities' warnings and the legislation by launching a scheme to sell the illicit, unauthorized drug that people would normally encounter. Almost all believe that the whole controversy over Ivermectin is being used to divert public uproar and rage away from the administration's abject inability to contain the public health crisis. It's still a hotly debated subject, with many people persuaded on one side that it's pointless and a waste of time and effort. On the other hand, some people believe there is a massive fraud and want to push vaccination while we have this miraculous cure right on the shelf. That's tough to accept. If this continues to cause ambiguity, it would be premature to conclude that Ivermectin has no role in COVID-19 treatment. However, by defending the vocabulary of awareness, I agree we should conclude that good science and good intentions must adhere to the facts.

SOWS CONFUSION

GOLDEN REI

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

rominently known for airborne transmission, the virus continues to threaten the masses by potentially compromising the space within establishments. Luckily, with the system proposed by students from the Grade 12 STEM - Engineering Strand, the university has a fighting chance. As a requirement for their research subjects, Aron Melo, Aaron Cua, Jimboy De Villa, and Dranreb Rosales, devised a disinfectant sprayer piping system for the University of Batangas Millenium Campus to deal with the pandemic experienced today. The system proposed by the students researchers consisted of five major elements namely: the disinfectant tank, centrifugal pump, pipelines, pipe bridge, and atomizer nozzles - similar to those used in sprinkler systems. With the given floor plan of the target campus, a total of 30 rooms, the proposal overall contains 110 atomizer nozzles to hopefully have around 4 nozzles for each room. These were planned out to disinfect specific touchpoints within the room which are prone to viruses

and bacteria. Through the created proposal, the paper placed 3rd in the 3rd ChExpertise of the ChEin Reaction 2021 Event facilitated by the Batangas State University in partnership with the Philippine Institute of Chemical Engineers - Junior Chapter Batangas. “In the current time, the number of active coronavirus cases in the country is still very alarming. Our team's paramount consideration is safety in UBML Campus by providing the proposed system, which can be adapted by other establishments.” the group stated. Through the development of such a system, the university is able to maximize its arsenal by encouraging student involvement for combatting the virus.

Artwork by: Aron Rayner S. Melo

TAAL VOLCANO'S DRASTIC INSTABILITY CONTINUES AT LEVEL 2, ALARMS LGUS Cassandra Alexie Lopez

Source: Philippine Institute of Volcanology & Seismology (PHIVOLCS)

aal Volcano has recently been put on Alert Level 2 by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) following a series of volcanic earthquakes—383 in totalreported since the end of April.

In line with this, a very weak emission of steam-laden plumes from Taal Volcano's gas vents rose five meters, signaling a rise in magmatic activity and increasing the volcano's warning level status. Renato Solidum, Undersecretary of Science and Technology and PHIVOLCS Officer-in-Charge (OIC), demonstrated that volcanic earthquakes last less than a minute, while volcanic tremors last longer than a minute. It also firmly recommended by PHIVOLCS that entry into Volcano Island permanent danger zone be strictly banned, as Taal reawakened from its decades-long slumber. The tumultuous activity forced the evacuation of thousands of people living on volcanic island and in highrisk areas. In the event of increased conflict a year after the eruption, local government units were urged to stay vigilant, calm, and to listen from validated sources in order to provide a secure evacuation in the event of an eruption.

UBians launch Telehealth website Robert Patrick Talabis

o tackle and address the urgent need for medical consultation without risking physical contact, students from the Grade 12 STEM - Allied Medical Health developed a website equipped with ready-to-call medical professionals.

DoctLine, the telehealth site, aims to tackle the challenges regarding connectivity in established telehealth practices such as internet connection, unfamiliar technology, negligence to urgent cases, inaccurate information, and inadequate technology. The site provides features such as user profile, urgent appointments, doctor’s blog, medical records, communication medium, patient’s review, doctor’s rating, and payment management. “As students about to undertake the field of medicine, our group definitely saw the predicament as something pertinent to address considering the shift in priorities in today’s environment.” the G12 STEM-AMH students indicated.

Viral Pretension: Taken down in the aftermath of malicious tagging on Facebook Ranier Villanueva

ith the sight of netizens' never-ending satisfaction, they begin to look for something else to pique their interest. Suspicious links about the viral “malicious tagging spree” circulated on social media platforms on April 21st, 11AM; this threat has recently plagued and raised fears among Filipino social media users. When the user clicked, this will result in automated and arbitrary tagging of random Facebook users to the same post, including people who are not on your Friends list. As per the Department of Justice-Office of Cybercrime increased awareness of this

matter last Wednesday, and stated that it had obtained assurances from Facebook APAC Legal Law Enforcement Outreach that it had already taken down the page and those responsible have been dealt with accordingly. With the amount of effort, let us all be

responsible to use social media wisely. Although the latest spate of ‘malicious tagging’ has ceased, we must stay cautious. In the event that it occurs again, we now know what steps to take. After all, in this digital age, we must do our best to keep ourselves secure.

PHOTO BY Brendon Thorne

UNSAFE SPACE. As per advised by The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG)—Filipino netizens must remain vigilant on social media and be wary of sites pretending to be legitimate but are actually designed to obtain information or sensitive details like bank account numbers and passwords.

“WITH WORDS, WE GOVERN MEN”

Division of Batangas City, Region IV-A CALABARZON The Official Student Publication of the University of Batangas High School Department JANUARY- JUNE VOL. XXXIX | NO. 1

THE CHASE IS ON

MEDALS Upon entering weightlifting tournaments since 2006

Diaz keeps gold medal hope afloat ahead fourth Olympic appearance Jayniah Barza

PHOTO BY Rappler News

t has been a long wait for Hidilyn Diaz to book a spot in the Tokyo Olympics this year. So now that it has been made official, the Philippine weightlifting star is more determined than ever to write history – again.

2016 Olympic silver medalist Hidilyn Diaz set sights on gold after competing in the 2021 Asian Weightlifting Championships that secured her berth in the quadrennial meet, April 18. Diaz need not achieve a podium finish in the final Olympic qualifier as merely showing up would be enough to meet the International Weightlifting Federation's requirement of participating in five tournaments to earn points in the world rankings and qualify for Tokyo. However, the warrior in Diaz still

compelled her to land fourth overall, capping 212 points in the women’s 55-kilogram division as she lifted 94 kg in the snatch and 118 in clean and jerk, a point short of bronze medalist Muattar Nabieva of Uzbekistan. Despite falling short of landing on the podium, Diaz hopes to work on her game stating that “The Asian Weightlifting Championships was a tune-up for us. If we had mistakes, we must address them so that come the Olympics, we have already adjusted and are ready.”

World’s No. 2 Diaz proved to be the seventh Olympic qualifier after joining world gymnast champion Carlos Yulo, pole vaulter EJ Obiena and boxers Eumir Felix Marcial, Nesthy Petecio, Irish Magno, and Carlo Paalam in Tokyo. Hidilyn’s official return to the Olympics got postponed when the March 2020 qualifier she was scheduled to enter in Cali, Colombia didn't push through due to travel ban restrictions on Asia

and Europe. Nonetheless, she assured that she and her team HD have been focused on training as the Philippines bids to finally snatch a breakthrough gold medal in the Olympics after being forced to an extended stay in Malaysia due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “We learned a lot from what went through. All Olympics are special because all have their struggles and challenges. This one is special in its way. I’m focusing on it right now as I go for my dream of winning a gold medal,” Diaz added.

UB athletes keep competitive shape amidst COVID-19 pandemic

Kyle Ezra De los Reyes

espite the ongoing crisis that halted not only the future events for sports but also the world’s many other aspects, the urge to stay fit stands out as the main quest for UB Brahman Athletes.

PHOTO BY Spin PH

AWAY FROM LIMELIGHT. With no camera flashes and noisy crowds, UB athletes continue to work in silence. Their desire for growth shines the brightest in these darkest times.

The Summer Games will be Diaz’ fourth Olympic appearance after the 2008 Beijing, 2012 London, and 2016 Rio De Janeiro Olympiads. Meanwhile, Tokyo Games will commence late this July 23 to August 8.

Gomez De Liaño brothers propel Gilas Pilipinas past Thailand

Aron Rayner Melo

THE PUSH CONTINUES With time ticking down before the opening of Tokyo Games, Hidilyn Diaz along with other Filipino athletes keep the Philippines' Olympic gold-hopes alive.

Since the beginning of the lockdown in the Philippines, the adverse effects it caused to sports truly affect the competitive scenes and the athletes who play them. This coronavirus pandemic has truly hindered not only the different aspects in the society but also the sports scene in the country. “Bilang isang student athlete sa panahon ng pandemya, pinapanatili ko ang magandang kondisyon ng aking katawan sa pamamagitan ng pagkakaroon ng sapat na tulog at tamang nutrisyon na sinasabayan ko ng proper calisthenic workouts,” UB’s batter Gabriel de la Cruz said in

an interview. Roughly finding any training facilities, De la Cruz explained that he had to find his own way of keeping himself fit as he practices workout routines to further strengthen his body. Meanwhile, UB Baseball Team’s captain Alec Stephen Bautista said that he and his teammates do not need monitoring as they know for themselves the importance of staying well and fit. “Nasasabi ko ito dahil sa ilang mga video ng aking mga ka-teammate, nakikita ko na, hindi padin nawawala sa kanila yung pagmamahal sa larong baseball,” Bautista said in an online interview.

He also believes that while it sounds fearful to try keeping your body well and fit, he still look for ways to answer his itch for playing baseball. On the other hand, UB’s Boys Volleyball Team’s captain Christian Briones expressed that despite the pandemic, they still able to recruit new players and even do training session every week. He emphasized that all of these were made possible in players’ homes. “Tuloy padin po and training namin every week. Kung ano po ginagawa namin noong wala pang pandemic, siya din po ang ginagawa namin sa kanya kanyang bahay,” Briones stated.

avier and Juan Gomez De Liaño combined for 33 points to lead Gilas Pilipinas, 93-69, for the top spot in Group A of the FIBA Asia Cup 2021 Qualifiers against Thailand December 1, 2020 at Manama, Bahrain. Javier chipped in 19 points on 7-of8 shooting from the field along with 2 rebounds, while Juan Gomez De Liaño added 14 points, 4 rebounds, and 4 assists as they dominate back-to-back matches with Thailand. Gilas Pilipinas caught fire in the first half as they outscored Thailand, 27-19, and 26-15, during the first two quarters which led to their blowout win against the opposing team. Thailand bounced back during the third quarter as they cut the deficit to 14 points, 50-64, but the Gomez De Liaño brothers showcased their great scoring blitz as they show off 7 points in an 11-2 run which upset Thailand, 7552, heading into the fourth quarter. Philippines improve to 3-0 in Group A, while Thailand fall to 0-3.

THE CHASE IS ON

featured story

Sports

It has been a long wait for Hidilyn Diaz...

Turn to page 14

PHILIPPINES’ “HAIL MARY” SHOT A BUST

editors:

Van Aeros Torres & River Dale Evangelio

BACK FOR MORE KarlTzy, Bren Esports reign supreme in M2 World Tourney Lykha Mae Gonzales

ON POINT

River Dale Evangelio

It is the same sports and players who keep getting all the attention. It would be great to feel the intensity of Filipino crowd cheering for all the athletes representing the country.

henever I see an athlete who forces a move, be it a game winning trey or a cross-court spike against multiple blockers, I can’t help but think if it was their actual plan or it was an effect of an adrenaline rush. Regardless, I call it a “Hail Mary” shot- something that requires divine intervention in order to work. I picked up this term from the most star and ace players. Even though their statistics are stellar, something from their game brings them away from winning. They might have a personal reason, but whatever it is, it ruins what their coaches have drawn on their respective whiteboards. I wonder how it felt to be their teammate who stands somewhere in the corner while hoping that their co-player will make it. And it dawned on me, perhaps that is how the other athletes for most unrecognized sports might have felt; used, overworked, and unappreciated in every leagues they are joining to – may it be a simple tournament or an Olympics. Undoubtedly, Sports Commissioners in our country do not see sports as a wide spectrum of competitive scenes. It is not similar to Gilas Pilipinas that has a wide pool of players to choose from while other sports don’t have any. Therefore, seeing the Philippines’ other sports club settle below the leaderboards does not blow me with a surprise torso punch anymore. Perhaps, it is something that we might see for decades, not until the authorities will do something at the least. And so, with the presence of many other sports such as water polo and netball, I started to worry that the athletes who pursued these might have rotten behind the shadows of Gilas. What these athletes acquire is a dimming-spotlight every time they have to represent the country. If you are paying a person to shoot a basketball, why not do the same to a person you’re asking to lift a weight? Isn’t it that unfair to those athletes who’s also representing the same country and bringing their pride worldwide. As much as Filipinos want to dominate the sports world, I fear that day will never come. However, I would love to see a Philippine sports team make a gold trophy feel their touch with Magoo Marjon shouting in the corner. It is only then I would say that the Philippines finally broke the curse and will not need any divine intervention to make it happen ever again.

rom its throne in Asia, Bren Esports now enjoy the World Champs’ suites. Bren Esports bagged Philippines’ first MLBB World Championship with come-from-behind triumph over Myanmar’s Burmese Ghouls, 4-3, in the grand finals series of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang M2 World Championship. Finals MVP Karl “Karltzy” Napomuceno led his squad with his signature Claude as he posted a late-game rage of 10 kills, 6 assists while dying only once in Game-7, seizing the deal for the Southeast Asia Cup champs Bren Esports, held at Singapore, January 25. With the lord marching in with their side, Bren’s David “Flaptzy” Canon (Baxia) initiated the final clash with his Shield Unity to sustain Burmese’s damage, giving KarlTzy enough space to cast his Blazing Duet that killed Myanmar’s Brody

PLAYER'S SIDE

TIMEOUT: Brahman Athletes and their Continuous Pursuit for Greatness

and Lapu-Lapu. Philippines’ four remaining players KarlTzy, Pheww (Luo Yi), Ribo (Harith), and Lusty (Chou), then proceeded to seal the game to become the World’s new MLBB Champions. “In Game 7, I asked them, ‘You want to prove that we’re not just strong in the Philippines?’ And they said out loud, ‘Yeah!’ [I said], ‘Then prove it, we have to win this last game,’” said Bren Esports coach Duckeyyy. Bren dominated Burmese Ghouls to get hold of an early lead, 2-0, but the Myanmar

PHOTO BY NewsBytes PH

CONQUERED. After a week-long battle for the M2 trophy in Shangri-La Singapore, Filipino team Bren Esports was hailed as new kings of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang.

squad fought back, winning three straight games to overtake Bren, 3-2. The squad from Philippines, however, regained their footing by winning Game 6 to force the

series in deciding game. Winning M2 is such a big thing for me,” said KarlTzy. “Ever since I joined the pro scene, I always wanted to be the best in the world.”

Hindi sapat na rason para sa akin ang paghinto ng mga league para tumigil, hindi lang pag-represent sa UB ang dahilan kung bakit ako naglalaro ng volleyball, naglalaro ako dahil masaya ako sa ginagawa ko at hangga't na-eenjoy ko ang volleyball ay ipagpapatuloy ko ito. Pinapanatili kong fit ang katawan ko upang makapaglaro ako.

Pagmahal mo ang laro walang makakapigil sa ‘yo na ipagpatuloy ito. Bagama't pansamantalang tumigil ang mga contest ay hindi ito naging dahilan upang huminto ako sa paglalaro ng chess. Yung scholarship na natatangap ko dahil sa paglalaro ay parang bonus nalang dahil ang chess ay hindi lang hobby naging passion ko na ito.

Ray valiant macaraig

aaron jel cua

PH claims hosting of the remaining games of FIBA, to be ready for 2023 olympics Van Aeros Torres

ue to the current situation faced by the country, Philippines, along with Jordan, will still be accommodating the last games of the FIBA Asia Cup 2021 Qualifiers as they officially confirmed the withdrawal of their cancellation cause of the travel ban last February.

PHOTO BY FIBA Basketball

GEARED UP. Despite the setbacks that the Philippines has gone through, the country appeared to be as open as ever to host FIBA Qualifiers this coming June.

This happened right after the cancellation of Qatar week before the said confirmation due to the rising cases of COVID-19 infections. Moreover, this is also for the preparation of the 2023 Tokyo Olympics as the Philippines will be the host. "The best template is really the Tokyo Olympics. Meaning, how are they gonna do it, and we can get best practices out of that initiative," said Al Panlilio in an interview , president of Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas (SBP).. "Kung ano man ang gawin niyan na pwedeng maging best practice natin 'yan pagdating sa 2023. According to an interview with SBP, Philippines will always be willing and ready to host FIBA events but of course following protocols. "We've always been very close naman to FIBA, and we always wanted to support their programs, and always been in touch with the IATF,” Gilias Pilipinas on the

other hand holds a 3-0 record after beating Thailand twice last November, which needs only one win to advance the 2021 Fiba Asia Cup against Korea and Indonesia. However, everyone’s safety remains a priority for the SBP, with the federation working closely with the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) before competing in the said country. " Our main priority is to keep everybody safe. Fiba has been strict and they require teams to be under quarantine before entering the bubble and they require testing before leaving to make sure they're safe,” Panlilio added. The Philippines will host three groups in Clark: Group A, which includes Gilas Pilipinas, Korea, Indonesia and Thailand; Group B which includes Chinese Taipei, China, Japan and Malaysia; and Group C which includes Australia, New Zealand, Guam, and Hong Kong.

FOR WE LIVE BY FAITH, NOT BY SIGHT 2 CORINTHIANS 5:7

the westernian

“ W I T H W O R D S , W E G OV E R N M E N ”

Division of Batangas City, Region IV-A CALABARZON The Official Student Publication of the University of Batangas High School Department JANUARY- JUNE VOL. XXXIX | NO. 1

Artwork by: Vince Nigel Son