EDUCATION IS THE MOST POWERFUL WEAPON WHICH WE CAN USE TO CHANGE THE WORLD. NELSON MANDELA A VOTE IS LIKE A RIFLE; ITS USEFULNESS DEPENDS UPON THE CHARACTER OF THE USER. TEDDY ROOSEVELT EDUCATION IS THE ABILITY TO LISTEN TO ALMOST ANYTHING WITHOUT LOSING YOUR TEMPER OR YOUR SELF CONFIDENCE. ROBERT FROST WHEN YOU KNOW BETTER, YOU DO BETTER. MAYA ANGELOU FREE ELECTION OF MASTERS DOES NOT ABOLISH THE MASTERS OF THE SLAVES. HERBERT MARCUSE POLITICS HAVE NO RELATION TO MORALS. NICCOLO MACHIAVELLI READER, SUPPOSE YOU WERE AN IDIOT. AND SUPPOSE YOU WERE A MEMBER OF CONGRESS. BUT I REPEAT MYSELF. MARK TWAIN YOU CAN NEVER BE OVERDRESSED OR OVER EDUCATED. OSCAR WILDE INTELLIGENCE PLUS CHARACTER - THAT IS THE GOAL OF TRUE EDUCATION. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. POLITICS IS THE ART OF LOOKING FOR TROUBLE, FINDING IT EVERYWHERE, DIAGNOSING IT INCORRECTLY AND APPLYING THE WRONG REMEDIES. GROUCHO MARX IN POLITICS, STUPIDITY IS NOT A HANDICAP. NAPOLEON BONAPARTE THE RIGHTS OF EVERY MAN ARE DIMINISHED WHEN THE RIGHTS OF ONE MAN ARE THREATENED. JOHN F. KENNEDY IF YOU WANT TO GET LAID, GO TO COLLEGE. IF YOU WANT EDUCATION, GO TO THE LIBRARY. FRANK ZAPPA A POLITICIAN THINKS OF THE NEXT ELECTION. A STATESMAN, OF THE NEXT GENERATION. GEORGE ELIOT YOU SHOW ME A CAPITALIST, AND I’LL SHOW YOU A BLOODSUCKER. MALCOLM X ELECTIONS BELONG TO THE PEOPLE. IT’S THEIR DECISION. IF THEY DECIDE TO TURN THEIR BACK ON THE FIRE AND BURN THEIR BEHINDS, THEN THEY WILL HAVE TO SIT ON THEIR BLISTERS. ABRAHAM LINCOLN EVERY ELECTION IS DETERMINED BY THE PEOPLE WHO SHOW UP. LARRY J. SABATO HEALTHY CITIZENS ARE THE GREATEST ASSET ANY COUNTRY CAN HAVE. WINSTON CHURCHILL THE PURPOSE OF EDUCATION IS TO REPLACE AN EMPTY MIND WITH AN OPEN ONE. MALCOLM S. FORBES SEVEN DEADLY SINS. WEALTH WITHOUT WORK. PLEASURE WITHOUT CONSCIENCE. KNOWLEDGE WITHOUT CHARACTER. POLITICS WITHOUT PRINCIPLE. COMMERCE WITHOUT MORALITY. WORSHIP WITHOUT SACRIFICE. MAHATMA GHANDI YOUNG PEOPLE ARE THE KEY TO THIS ELECTION. KINKY FRIEDMAN WHEN WE BLINDLY ADOPT A RELIGION, POLITICAL SYSTEM, A LITERARY DOGMA, WE BECOME AUTOMATONS. ANAIS NIN NOBODY EVER WON AN ELECTION BY SPITTING AT HIS POLITICAL OPPONENT. DAVID FRUM REWARD AND PUNISHMENT IS THE LOWEST FORM OF EDUCATION. ZHUANGZI IN POLITICS WE PRESUME THAT EVERYONE WHO KNOWS HOW TO GET VOTES KNOWS HOW TO ADMINISTER A CITY OR A STATE. WHEN WE ARE ILL, WE DO NOT ASK FOR THE HANDSOMEST PHYSICIAN, OR THE MOST ELOQUENT ONE. PLATO MARRIAGE CAN WAIT, EDUCATION CANNOT. KHALED HOSSEINI THOSE WHO STAND FOR NOTHING FALL FOR ANYTHING. ALEXANDER HAMILTON THE MINDS OF THE YOUTH, WE MUST NOT FORGET TO EDUCATE THEIR HEARTS. DALAI LAMA TEACH THE IGNORANT AS MUCH AS YOU CAN; SOCIETY IS CULPABLE IN NOT PROVIDING A FREE EDUCATION FOR ALL AND IT MUST ANSWER FOR THE NIGHT WHICH IT PRODUCES. IF THE SOUL IS LEFT IN DARKNESS SINS WILL BE COMMITTED. THE GUILTY ONE IS NOT HE WHO COMMITS THE SIN, BUT HE WHO CAUSES THE DARKNESS. VICTOR HUGO TO WIN THE PEOPLE, ALWAYS COOK SOME SAVOURY THAT PLEASE THEM. ARISTOPHANES POLITICS IS THE ART OF POSSIBLE, THE ATTAINABLE - THE ART OF THE NEXT BEST. OTTO VON BISMARCK WHEN YOU TAKE THE FREE WILL OUT OF EDUCATION, THAT TURNS INTO SCHOOLING. JOHN TAYLOR GATTO EDUCATION IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR INTELLIGENCE. FRANK HERBERT WISDOM COMES NOT FROM AGE, BUT FROM EDUCATION AND LEARNING. ANTON CHEKOV SO FOR US ANY GAIN WE HAD IN ELECTION, ONE VOTE THAT WE GOT, WAS A WIN. IMRAN KHAN POLITICS IS THE ART OF CONTROLLING YOUR ENVIRONMENT. HUNTER S. THOMPSON EDUCATION BREEDS CONFIDENCE. CONFIDENCE BREEDS HOPE. HOPE BREEDS PEACE. CONFUCIOUS EVERYTHING CAN BE EXPLAINED TO THE PEOPLE, ON THE SINGLE CONDITION THAT YOU ANT THEM TO UNDERSTAND. FRANTZ FANON WHEN EDUCATING THE POLITICAL MACHINE TRIUMPHS BECAUSE IS IT UNITED MINORITY ACTING AGAINST DIVDED MAJORITY. WILL DURANT YOU HAVE TO GO WHOLEHEARTEDLY INTO ANYTHING IN ORDER TO ACHIEVE ANYTHING WORTH LIVING. FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT THE ROOTS OF EDUCATION ARE BITTER, BUT THE FRUIT IS SWEET. ARISTOTLE THE ONLY FENCE AGAINST THE WORLD IS A THOROUGH KNOWLEDGE OF IT . JOHN LOCKE POLITICS IS WAR WITHOUT THE BLOODSHED WHILE WAR IS POLITICS WITH BLOODSHED. MAO TSE-TSUNG
Today’s CAROLINIAN
EDITORIAL BOARD Editor-In-Chief Dylan Briones Associate Editor (Internal Affairs) Marlouize Villanueva Associate Editor (External Affairs) Patrisha Yap News Bureau Editors Downtown and South Campus Christie Marie Alga Talamban Campus Reyster Mae Perez Feature Editor Ushabelle Bongo Literary Editor Paulo Magallon Managing Web Editor Gerard Theodore Alcuizar
OPERATIONS Administrative Editor Ki-Jeong “Jenny” Shim Assitant Administrative Editor Andalene Atillo Chief Finance Officer Christine Reyna Perez Circulation Manager Margel Christine Mallen
The Progressive Student Publication of the University of San Carlos
UNIVERSITY OF SAN CARLOS Cebu City, Cebu Philippines 6000 Volume XXIII No. 3 March 2013
THE COVER
EDITORIAL STAFF News Bureau SENIOR CORRESPONDENT Smith Dwight Cabe CORRESPONDENTS Emmanuel Hernandez Kamelle Reigh Etang Miguel Sison Santos Niveno Ocdinaria Dominic Celeste Creative Department LAYOUT Ki-Jeong “Jenny” Shim Kim Tiangco PHOTOGRAPHY Head Photographer Bernadette Jacolon Photographers Lorenzo Ouano John Matthew Flores Angel Robles Contributors Neil Angelo Briones ILLUSTRATION Contributors Dylan Briones Kevin Van Opura Ki-Jeong “Jenny” Shim Information Techonology & Multimedia Department DEVELOPERS Gerard Theodore Alcuizar Kim Tiangco CAMERAMAN/ VIDEO EDITOR Lorenzo Ouano Patricia Narsico ANCHORS Niveno Ocdinaria Bhea Jasille Gahi STAFF SECRETARY Kim Tiangco Technical Adviser
Sam Nervez
Education, Election, Politics. The platform of the world, the right of the people, the clockwork orange of everything that has, is and will build up the world as we know it.
HOW TO REACH US LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
with the writer’s name, e-mail address and contact number, should be e-mailed to todayscarolinianusc@ gmail.com. Letters may be edited for reasons of space and clarity. ©2013. Today’s Carolinian All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is strictly prohibited. Today’s Carolinian publishes one to two issues per academic year. Today’s Carolinian may also publish occasional extra issues. An electronic version (PDF Format) of every publication is available in the Today’s Carolinian website.
We, the future.
ELECTION
EDUCATION
1 2 4 Preschool Lessons for a 22 Year Old 7 RIGHT: Introducing Inclusion Education, Introducing a Better Future 10 Why Students Waste Their Ink (Not On Paper) 12 The Digression of Integrity as Society Progresses 14 The Future of K+12 16 The Secular Subterfuge 18 Of Factories and Farms 20 Carolinian Survey
22 SSC Year Ender 24 How Was The Performance 26 Interview with SSP 28 Interview with STAND 30 Interview with Tingog 34 Where and How to Vote 35 Interview with Comelec 36 Are You Ready to Vote? 38 A Reflection On Transparen 40 Going Beyond Colors 42 Tribes, Tremors and Tribula
ncy
ations
POLITICS
e of Last Year’s SSC?
3 46 Voting Responsibly 48 An Eclipse of the Old Order 50 Defending Defensor 52 Glossary of Non-Sexist Terms
EDITOR’S NOTE
educatio elec politi 2 TODAY’S CAROLINIAN MAR 2013
on ction ics
You could say that a nation’s POLITICS in a democracy is a reflection of its EDUCATIONAL system; you can even call it a measure. Philippine POLITICS such as it is, leaves much to be desired and our EDUCATIONAL system even more so. Let’s start in the middle then, one of its more important bridges, the ballot. Filipinos, come ELECTIONS are swept into a reality-tv telenovela with all the pomp of pageantry and the excitement of a circus. True to oft repeated formula, the bida comes out on top. Happy endings for all, cue applause and tears, cue credits; we’ve seen this time and time again. It has become common sense to assume that our officials are only at their “best” behavior as ELECTION season draws near, making sure that in the eyes of the Filipino, he/ she is the bida. In fact as of this writing, a very real and embarrassing episode in the history of our country’s POLITICS is unfolding in Cebu’s provincial capitol building. Let’s not kid ourselves here, our POLITICS is mired by pettiness, insecurity and impunity, corruption has become “normal”. From the provincial up to the national level, and because of this it feels like the Philippines will always be two steps forward, one step back. Across from that circus of absurdity, we find something quite different. A factory, or if you want, hundreds of factories, of varying size and owned by different companies, each using old machinery, each running on overdrive. All bent on producing our country’s best and brightest with varying results. We the youth are set to be this country’s future, citizens all, with the freedom to ELECT and run for office. Our systems of EDUCATION are at a level, largely unchanged, albeit struggling to keep up with the demands of the 21st century. Yet unlike our POLITICS, the dysfunctions are much less obvious and all too easily ignored. Is the condition of our POLITICS then a failure of the EDUCATIONAL system? Or is it the other way around? It won’t be as simple as that. In looking into the relationship shared by both, the factory and the circus, we might find a better perspective on the times that we live in. We hope, that our factory could be something better, even something different, that it might be a system where our talents and skills flourish for the betterment of our country. Even more, we hope that the telenovela and the circus that it leads to, become somewhere the issues that plague the people get resolved with no harm done and grudges held, and solutions to these issues are handled with civility and reason, like you know, a Democracy. TC
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EDUCATION
LESSONS FOR A
22 Year Old KIM TIANGCO
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IMAGE: Harrison Presbyterian Church (http://www.harrisonpres.org)
PRESCHOOL
EDUCATION
My nursery teacher didn’t like the way I handled my pencil. She would force me to write on the board with my right hand while making sure that my left hand was placed at my back. I don’t remember anyone else in my class being treated the same way, but I do remember feeling humiliated and frustrated, being the only one in class who couldn’t write properly. I was 4. A NEW WORLD: Working in a Waldorf-inspired Preschool I entered USC in 2008 to take up Legal Management. For a time, everything was peachy. I made good friends during my first semester but I wasn’t really sure if this course was what I wanted. I stopped going to school after a semester then went back to Manila to work in a call center. I quit after a few months and came back to Cebu. It was then that I realized I didn’t know what it was that I really wanted. Being out of school, I had all the free time in the world. I wanted to make use of my time and luckily, one of my mother’s friends in Cebu was looking for a volunteer to work at a small preschool she put up. It was a Waldorf-inspired preschool, an alternative learning system that focuses on the developmentally appropriate methods of educating a child. The school sparked my interest. Everything about the school was new (to me, at least). For starters, the school’s environment was far more child-friendly than any school I have ever attended. But that wasn’t what kept me interested. I went to work 5 ½ days a week. During mornings, I would stay in the office, helping out my mother’s friend with the paperwork and
phone calls. We only had a few students during the first few months, and this was understandable since the school was fairly new, with a non-conventional system at that. Because of this, there wasn’t enough paperwork to fill the whole day, so I usually spent my afternoons making thank-you cards for random people who helped out the school, and assisting the teachers inside the classrooms.
weren’t taught how to read or write. I thought this was rather absurd because I had to master writing at the age of 4! Many parents would probably think that it is necessary to teach children how to read and write at an early age, but the school I worked at begged to differ. Instead of learning ABCs’, our students had indoor and outdoor play and every day before they go home, the teacher would read stories to them.
At first, I found the concept of having two adults inside a classroom of 6 toddlers unnecessary (I had about 30 classmates when I was in kindergarten, and I had one teacher). But later on, I learned that it was important to carefully monitor each child’s behavior in order to know how that child is developing.
When I asked my mother’s friend why her school adapts such a system, she said that they find great importance in play in the child’s first 7 years. She explained how “play” was a necessary foundation for imagination and critical thinking. The toddlers were free to imagine and to analyze things by themselves, without the teachers poking their noses in their business every second.
But what really kept me going was the way the teachers treated their students. In everything they do, they had one thing in mind: “this is for the children”. Our students were free to run, to talk, to scream, to laugh, to cry. They were not reprimanded or warned with a cold voice whenever they misbehaved. Instead, they were talked to with patience and warmth. When a child falls on his knees, the teachers would always give their warmest smiles when they say, “It’s okay! You’ll be fine.” I realized that this school was everything I wanted as a child--and for the first time in my life, I wanted to stay. THE BUILDING BLOCKS: Play, Discipline and Nature Our students were around the ages of 3 to 5 at the time, and they
During indoor play, the teachers teach the children songs, verses and rhymes with movement. They call this the “circle play”. This is one of the methods used to let the children know how to speak properly and listen attentively. After this, the children play with toys made out of natural and child-friendly materials such as wood, yarn, cloth, corn husks and felt. Toys are carefully selected to make sure that they are safe for the children. The dolls are usually made by the teachers themselves during their free time. Some of the bigger children help the teachers out with preparing snacks while the other children play. Afterwards, the children put away the toys with the teachers’ help. Snack time is when the training for discipline comes in. The children are seated on small chairs and the
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teachers let them eat by themselves. At first, some of the children would run around the room while eating, but after a while, they would sit down with the other children and the teachers and finish their food at the table. This is because of the example given by the teachers. The teachers don’t run around to chase the kids and seat them on the dining area forcefully. Instead, they calmly call the children’s names while they carry on eating their snacks. I like how the teachers don’t make a fuss about everything. They let the children learn at their own pace, and teach them discipline by example. Outdoor play is one of my favorite times of the day at the preschool. It’s one of the things I wish I had as a kid. I remember my dad always telling me things like “that’s dirty!’”or “don’t run!” or “don’t touch that!”. I totally understand where he was coming from; after all, I was his little girl. However, I did not have much physical activity as a child and this is probably why I’m very frail. Our students, though, are allowed to get dirty and are allowed to run or fall. The school’s environment helps out a lot in making this possible. The school garden is filled with grass, some tomatoes, mint, green tea and plants that repel mosquitoes. Every day, the school’s maintenance personnel make sure that the garden is free of sharp rocks, trash and other things that might hinder the children from free play. The children play in the sandbox and the mud box without worrying about getting dirty. For the teachers, it’s the experience that counts. The children can touch plants, butterflies, leaves and sometimes, they do a bit of gardening. The outdoor playtime compliments the indoor play and
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lets the children have more physical activity and contact with nature. After all the playing and all the running, the children would go inside the classroom and listen to their teachers’ stories. The same story is read to the children for at least two weeks, for them to remember the words and the lesson that comes with it. The teachers tell stories in a different way. The teachers memorize the story and make the characters come to life as they use puppets and dolls while storytelling. I can’t help but envy the students in the preschool. I have always been bombarded with expectations from teachers and some relatives. I’ve been hammered with letters and numbers since I was old enough to speak a few words. I wish I had more time to play and to develop my imagination through natural toys as a child, rather than with plastic toys and television. Most of all, I wish I had more contact with nature. When I was a child, I was told that butterflies can leave you blind if you go near them. Now that I know that this is not true, I still can’t go near them. EPIPHANY: Preschool lessons for a 22-year old I worked in the preschool for a year before I decided to leave last August to focus on my studies. I noticed, as months passed, I changed as a person. Every day was a challenge was for me. I struggled with juggling my time, my sleeping habits and work habits. But the preschool helped me out in many ways. From the office, I learned (the hard way) how to manage my time and be responsible for my actions. I’ve always been late for work but I have
been encouraged by my co-workers to do better. They treated as they treat the children: With patience and love. From the children, I learned how to be disciplined but young at heart. The school has done a lot for me, and made me realize how my childhood greatly affected my adulthood. The school’s environment made me long for nature and appreciate it more than I have before. It was there where I realized that learning is as constant as change, and that you are never too old to be a child. TC
EDUCATION
RIGHT
INTRODUCING INCLUSIVE E D U C AT I O N , INTRODUCING A
RIGHT FUTURE PATRISHA YAP
Along the busy, bland streets of A.S. Fortuna sits a bright colored house; decorated with kiddie artworks, colored mats, beautiful plants and welcome tarpaulins, giving off a healthy, happy vibe that makes both children and adults feel at home as soon as they step in. This cozy house is the home of R.I.G.H.T. Day Care Incorporated and of R.I.G.H.T. Open Institute.
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EDUCATION R.I.G.H.T. Abbreviated from the institution’s basic concepts– Respect, Individuality, Good life, Humanity and Truth– it is an institute that caters to all children of diverse necessities, such as those with special educational needs. It is the first of its kind in the Philippine educational daycare system to focus on children with special disabilities. R.I.G.H.T. Day Care introduces its concept of inclusive education, wherein children with or without special educational needs come to learn, play, and discover new things together.
“Just and fair societies begin with individuals who know and respect their own fundamental rights and those of others.”
Aside from the drop-in day care service, R.I.G.H.T. Day Care offers other services to all who are in need, branching out to psychotherapy services, speech and language services, psychological assessment, respite care, home visits, support groups, case management, advocacy, and tutorials. “Just and fair societies begin with individuals who know and respect their own fundamental rights and those of others. When individuals are guided to acknowledge their most basic rights and see the same in others… the world will be just, fair, and free and everyone will have an opportunity to live full and abundantly.” Those few sentences express the purpose and the vision of RIGHT. It aims to “help bring out in a child a genuine appreciation for his/her own rights and the rights of others to be Respected as unique Individuals entitled to a Good and happy life through meaningful participation in the Human communities and just entitlement to the Truth”. Humble Beginnings “We want to see communities or societies where individuals are self-directed towards acknowledging their rights and the rights of other people; respecting each other”, states Robby Echavez, one of the administrators of R.I.G.H.T. Day Care. His desire for the proper care of children with special needs led him to conceptualize and set the idea of R.I.G.H.T. with a colleague, to what it is now. He began by explaining to other people the concept of the day care, and received very affirmative, motivating replies. “When we saw that there was a need for a school that caters children with special educational needs, and that no one was going towards that direction, that is establishing a day care where you could have both typical kids and special education kids in, that was the most motivating factor: we might be the first
photographs by GERARD THEODORE ALCUIZAR
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one to do it.”, he recalls. Starting from scratch, he and his team all agree that “the most powerful marketing and advertising tool is to simply tell people what our purpose is, and to give each one an opportunity to help the day care in some way”, and that insofar as the institute has started, advertising was only done by word of mouth, and collaboration with different groups with varied interests. R.I.G.H.T. Seven, and the Loving and Diligent Many Currently there are seven children in the day care: five of whom with special educational needs. The parents of the children are people that the administrators know on a personal level, from people encountered from their psychotherapy, consulting, or the volunteer work they do. “These are people who trust us; out of that trust they thought that this is the place for their children”. The age of the kids at the day care are from eight months to twenty-four years old – a mixed group, as Echavez calls it – as physical age is not a primary factor, for at R.I.G.H.T., children with special needs are taken care of, despite their physical age. Along with fellow administrator Mary Rose Velasco, both with backgrounds in counselling and teaching, Echavez makes sure that the day-to-day operations of the day care go smoothly and that everything that happens at the day care is aligned with its mission and vision. Assisting the children in their day-to-day activities are two Child Development Workers, Ms. Jovelyn Abiero and Ms. Esteria Pepito, who both have graduated with degrees in Special Education and Professional Education respectively, as well as experience in attending to kids with special educational concerns. Both of them tirelessly guide the children and help them, as well as the preparation of the activities for the kids, along with the members of the Board of Directors. When one or both of the teachers are absent, Echavez and Velasco take turns in personally attending to the children. All the activities are planned way ahead of time; sometimes with volunteers and collaborators, such as a few volunteers from Denmark, who provide their suggestions. They make weekly activities in advance and always in a group, planned and premeditated. It’s more fun at R.I.G.H.T. Aside from a weekly activity plan that centers on a monthly theme, activities at R.I.G.H.T. do not follow a strict format, but
has a more interactive, happy inclusive environment set up. At R.I.G.H.T., there is more room for activity and the children are not pushed to do anything if they are not interested. Instead, the children are supported and guided towards whatever they choose to do. “We think that children learn best when they are self-directed; when they are self-motivated. When they want to do something and you support them, that’s the best form of learning. Our philosophy is just being with the kids and supporting them all the way through”, says Echavez. He believes that it is in this way that the children learn more because they are not forced but instead they are doing things they enjoy, like play. Although there are integrated “set” activities, the children are still free to do what they want most of the time. The R.I.G.H.T. Open Institute (TROI) Project Younger than its counterpart, TROI is an open institute that started from an idea of utilizing the R.I.G.H.T. house on the afternoons after the day care sessions have ended. This project, modeled after open institutes in other countries, aims to gather people of different interests and use the R.I.G.H.T. house as a venue for discussion and the flowing of ideas. “It’s about people and interests merging at the daycare. We’re just happy that it’s moving, inviting more people, and unfolding”, Echavez shares. Since its beginning, three courses have been created: Logic and Ethics, Psychotherapy, and Music Theory. They plan to open a Genius Discussion class soon. The classes are held every Fridays, starting at 1:30 in the afternoon. Timeslots for the course discussions vary depending on the class’ choice. People young and old are welcome to visit and participate in the discussions since it is free. “There are no set criteria for who can come in and listen to the lectures. Perhaps, if there is a criteria, the minimum would be that you should be able to engage meaningfully in the discussion”. At R.I.G.H.T., freedom, justice, and fairness are given importance, promoting the most fundamental values of man: Respect, Individuality, Good life, Humanity, and Truth. TC
Robby Echavez invites everyone, young and old, to visit the clean and spacious R.I.G.H.T./TROI house located at Monterroyo Compound, A.S. Fortuna Street, Banilad, Mandaue, and avail of the services they offer. Anyone can also visit their Facebook accounts (Right Day Care; The Right Open Institute) or send them an email at therightccdschool@gmail.com.
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WHY STUDENTS WASTE THEIR INK NOT ON PAPER
USHABELLE BONGO “Vandal[ism] is a mortal sin of art. Just like sex, bro” boldly proclaims an inscription on a chair in PE16TC. Many other wisecrack graffiti, such as “Kill the pope” and “F**k Today’s Carolinian, they’re conformist” to state a few, are a ubiquitous sight in our university, and probably most-if not all of us have seen our fair share of these markings. They’re seen from the restroom cubicle doors, to almost every chair in the classrooms and they range from humorous, tactless ramblings, to downright insulting remarks. No school property seems to be safe from the hands and pen of these notorious vandals. Apparently, not much stand in their way to stop them from doing graffiti. They’re not fazed by the sanctions because they know it’s hard to catch them in the act, and even harder (impossible, probably) to trace them once they’ve done it and left a door, wall or chair literally marked. Which begs the question, why students do it in the first place? Some Carolinians claim that it is an art form, others declare it to be a fun way to kill time while pooping, and
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there are also students who said that they think that other students do it simply for the thrill of breaking the rules. Do you agree Vandals? Non-Vandals? Let’ see the experts’ take on this, shall we? Sociologist Stanley Cohen (as cited in Horowitz & Tobaly, 2003) suggests that “acts of vandalism are motivated by anger, boredom, catharsis, erosion of already damaged objects or aesthetic factors” (p.131). Cohen’s article clearly supports some of the aforementioned remarks from a number of Carolinians, such as boredom and art. But what of erosion of already damaged objects? Apparently, the sight of broken property also tempts vandals to degrade the property further since it’s already broken anyway. Moving on to Catharsis. Catharsis is the release of repressed feelings– feelings one otherwise can’t express in a restrictive environment such as schools, and vandalism appears to be a thrilling and bold way to make a statement and let out all the harbored negativity. A research by Tamar Horowitz and David Tobaly (2003) in school vandalism also showed that the perceived level
EDUCATION
of vandalism and attitude towards school and teachers also affects student’s participation in vandalism. As our experience with our peers and media have proven, when one is constantly exposed to a certain behavior, or if a good portion of the population around an individual behaves in a certain way, the individual eventually jumps into the bandwagon-sometimes consciously, other times unconsciously regardless if it’s right or wrong, and joins the majority. When seen from the perspective of the learning theory, if what is common in an environment is destructive behavior- like vandalism, then individuals will be inclined more to behave according to that dominant norm. Thus, the more vandalism seen in an environment, the higher the chances there are that people will be motivated more to engage in the act. Attitude towards school and teachers also play a role in motivating students to vandalize according to Horowitz and Tobaly (2003). Past researches have also shown that social context is a key element in vandalism, and that it is more rampant in schools that do not promote student’s welfare; where students don’t have a sense of belonging. If the school environment promotes teamwork; and when students find that the school is related to their lives and it can advance their goals; and the school defines norms and such that students feel the system is fair, vandalism is less likely to occur. (Casserly, Bass & Garret, 1982; Zeisel, 1969, as cited in Horowitz &Tobaly, 2003). Thus the social context affects the participation of students in vandalism. Do you think that the University of San Carlos falls under the category “supportive, fair, enhancing and having curricula and teachers that exhibit pedagogic techniques that make lessons relevant to our daily personal lives”? Take note though that there is still a considerable amount of doodles of male genitals on our chairs and cursing and lewd conversations written on our cubicle doors. The “Push button to eject teacher” vandalism on one of our chairs in CAS has been a regular sight for us since my first year in this university. PAASCU accreditation has come and gone, but the obscenities are still on our chairs.
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After interviewing another batch of Carolinians, it seemed that it doesn’t take a genius to figure out that boredom and frustration bring out the demons in us just as well as pride and jealousy does. So why do students waste their ink on walls, armchairs and bathroom doors? The want to unload negative emotional baggage from anxieties, frustrations and insecurities they feel in school, the excitement from being rebellious, art, peer pressure, anger and boredom. There may be more, but only the vandals can be sure. Or not. Anyhow, nobody has the monopoly on truth, remember? TC
3 Photgraphs by PAULO MAGALLON NEIL ANGELO BRIONES USHABELLE BONGO
Reference: Horowitz, T., & Tobaly, D. (2003). School vandalism: Individual and social context. Adolecence, 38(149), 131-139.
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THE DIGRESSION OF INTEGRITY AS SOCIETY PROGRESSES
PATRISHA YAP
During one of the meetings in Algebra class way back summer, my teacher narrated to us students that during her years in college, she and her colleagues knew how to solve mathematical problems using equations without the use of a calculator. They took to memorizing the multiplication table, the square and cube root equivalents instead. Like everyone else in the class, I was amazed, thinking of how difficult math is for me even with a calculator on hand. Until now, my teacher does her basic equations mentally and knows formulas by heart; only seldom referring to books. Quite dismayed, she expressed her sentiments on how students rely too much on their devices. She repeated this statement a lot of times, showing how she cannot believe that times have changed since her graduation. No, they’re not simply smarter than us; they just know where to devote their attention. Decades since technology has advanced itself – from bulky phones to slim, touch-sensitive gadgets; big CRT monitors and CPUs are now replaced by handy, trendy devices such as laptops, netbooks, and tablets. Time has changed, progress has been made and is continuing to.
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However it’s quite sad to see that as communities strive to innovate and create new ways for their people to “progress”, it is the people who drag themselves down to ignorance, apathy and laziness. Gone are the times when people would actually converse or purchase a paperback book. Nowadays, warm birthday greetings have diminished to a simple text message. Books we used to save so much for can now be downloaded online as e-books. With the implementation of the K-12 program here in the Philippines, the educational sector is slowly catching up with the times as well. Colleges change curricula every once in a while to fit the needs of the current and incoming students, as teachers continuously improve their craft and in return impart old and new knowledge to students. Again, despite all this, societal thinking – especially that of
EDUCATION
today’s generation, our generation – is slowly deteriorating and is quite different from that, say, of our college seniors or professors. Our youth talk not to have an exchange of knowledge, but about where the latest socialite event is happening or who did who. Inasmuch as the community slowly improves and adapts to the advancement brought about by technology, students on the other hand seem to do the opposite.
doing everything they can do to pass? What about us, students who have been graced with technology? Why do we hinder ourselves from improving and reaching our goals, blaming other things for it? Where’s our integrity as students? Why do we seem to settle for the unimportant? Instead of helping us achieve our goals efficiently as students, why do we use technology in a way that hinders us?
We are blessed with advanced technology; we seem to make most out of it, sometimes the wrong way. We rely too much on the internet because “it’s so tiring to open books” or the book doesn’t have “auto-search”. We update ourselves with the latest entertainment news and the fashion trends. Not to miss out on anything or get teased at for having no social life nor sense of taste; we visit book stores primarily because we just “have to check out the latest trend/books”. We read books that do not necessarily cultivate meaningful discussion, instead spending money on stories about overly hormonal teen vampires. Ask a student two questions; one about his/her studies, and one about the latest entertainment news (or if he has read any of the books of the genre I just described), and I presume you’ll get more details on the second question than the first.
I believe it’s basically a matter of setting priorities. Because of the fact that we are surrounded by forms of technology and the constant pressure of society, we are distracted. Technology is undeniably helpful. It is cool. It is amazing. Education, on the other hand, might look dull and uninteresting, so physically-mentally-emotionally draining – at first. However we have to remember how education will take us to far better places. Technology can deteriorate or enhance this process, it really depends on us. TC
Education has come a long way. People in the past have fought for it, did all means to achieve it. However, this doesn’t seem to reflect in our society, in the current studentry. In the exchange of powerpoint-assisted discussions, students resort to taking photos of the discussions instead of writing them on paper. They just talk to their classmates or do something else, not even listening nor understanding the discussion. This might look like a more efficient way to “take notes” but I have actually asked people why they do so instead of writing it on paper, and they tell me that it’s tiring to write everything. I have never seen them study these photo notes as well, come exams time and they even resort to borrowing other people’s notebooks and handouts. Many times we get stuck surfing the internet, checking our Facebook accounts and playing games for hours, and end up cramming and catching up with deadlines the next day. Some even blame their internet obsessions instead of themselves for not accomplishing their school tasks on time. Technology is good, it helps us be more productive as students. However, if we don’t use it in a way that benefits us the most, it is technology that will bring us down. In a coin, no matter how shiny it is, there’s always two sides to it. Why is it that people before us were more industrious and ambitious, setting their dreams beyond a bachelor degree? Why did they exert more effort in studying and
Illustration by KI-JEONG “JENNY” SHIM
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EDUCATION
“We need to add two years to our basic education. Those who can afford, pay up to fourteen years of schooling before university. Thus, their children are getting into the best universities and the best jobs after graduation. I want at least 12 years for our public school children to give them an even chance at succeeding.” President Benigno S. Aquino III
For the last few years, the K+12 program has been heatedly talked about; particularly now during the administration of President Benigno Aquino III and his appointed Secretary for the Department of Education, Bro. Armin Luistro, FSC. It is a natural reaction that such a debate would occur as education is held as a highly important aspect of a Filipino’s life and development. Now more than ever, our supposedly “employable graduates” are seen as insufficient unemployables by other countries who adhere to international agreements like the Bologna Process (European Union) and Washington Accord (US), that regard our 10 year basic education as lacking. Though according to The Department of Education, the current 10 year curriculum is a congested form of the standard 12 year
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program. In order to be able to get employed, one has to go through tertiary education when “not everyone is suppose to go to college” according to Bro. Romualdo Abulad SVD, Chair of the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies in the University. In this third world country, it is understandable that not everyone is able to proceed to college. Explanations, feasibilities and all sorts of presentations have been given for a very lengthy period of time. Affirmative and negative sides to the implementation have been shown but the future is a little more certain that it leans to the K +12 educational system to be implemented in this Republic. The time for the discussion of its implementation is over. Now is the time to ask the questions that affect the very society, culture and the very land we tread. What is the future of the K-12?
EDUCATION
What is the Future of K+12? The Stake of the Implementation of the K+12 Basic Education EMMANUEL HERNANDEZ PHOTOGRAPH BY GERARD THEODORE ALCUIZAR
Strengthening and Streamlining
Change
The Philippines is the last in Asia to have a 10-year preuniversity education. There is a need to align our education system with the rest of the world to be globally competitive. There is also a need to strengthen education for the benefit of the students. The DepEd considers the status quo as “congested” – or trying to fit 12 years in 10 years by force. In the words of the University President Fr. Dionisio Miranda “the agenda of K+12 is straightforward. It is to rationalize our education program in line with global standards”.
“The texture and the culture of the future will be different” states Bro. Abulad when asked about the future of the country post K+12 full implementation. One can see the beginnings of the K+12 with the passing of mandatory Kindergarten in the current Congress. When asked about certain changes he sees for improvement Bro. Abulad responds “Rote learning will be removed, changed”. “The emphasis of K+12 is on basic education” he adds. DepEd has expressed the need for changes and enhancing curriculum with the steady implementation of the new system. Change will occur and will slowly trickle down to the country’s culture and development. Brother Abulad compares the situation as that of the age old “chicken and egg” problem. One has to change the foundations before the results are made evident. “Education’s influence is lasting. We cannot rely on violent upheavals for change” he states. “The kind of education you give to your young is going to lead down to changes in the country” he adds. When asked about naysayers of the new educational program, Bro. Abulad ends with “Everybody has to sacrifice a little or much. This is something that we should all do together. We are left behind. I think our people deserve something better. We have a very intelligent people. We all have to share in this moving forward”. TC
Now Employable “The globally accepted basic education is 12 years.” says Bro. Abulad when asked about details concerning K+12. It was already mentioned that other countries like members of the European Union and the United States do not recognize the country’s basic education as sufficient. “The goal, which is the goal of many of our students, is to have a job. K+12 must be preparing a person to take up a job, to be already employable” He adds. This means that students who graduate from basic education are hirable and employable, unlike our current situation. Basic education from mandatory Kindergarten, the six years of primary education, the four years of what is now called junior high school and the added two years called senior high school would be enough to start a career, be employed and need not go to tertiary education.
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EDUCATION
THE SECULAR SUBTERFUGE Why College Is A Lie And Education Needs To Be Smarter
MIGGI SISON SANTOS
When I was a child, I used to be told by all the adults that finishing my secondary education and getting into college would be the first step into success. The big, fancy house, shiny sports car, trophy wife and mountains of money; it was hammered into my mind that all this can be attained by getting the best education and the most degrees, at the most expensive schools. Even a degree at that was the way to success, they said. Then what about the multitude of fresh college graduates who scramble for job openings? They’re lucky to even make minimum wage. Is the problem the educational system, the lack of job opportunities or the inadequacy of our education itself? Let’s talk about this. Grab a drink and find a comfortable seat; this may take a while to sink in.
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EDUCATION
You must be wondering why I say that college is a lie. Let me just clarify something: I never said college is useless; it’s just that the fact that parents pressure their kids into going to college because “it’s the best thing for them” is misguided. College isn’t just a place you need to go in and out of just so you can get a job. It is a place to prepare you for the real world; it’s basically life in tutorial mode– it’s not only the lectures that count. It’s a place where you discover yourself; your strengths and weaknesses, your aptitude, what you want to spend the next forty or so years doing for a living. It isn’t a place to get a fancy MBA and just be barely able to land a cashier job at McDonald’s (no offense to the blue-collar workers; a lot of successful people got their start doing odd jobs). A degree in Nursing should not equate to a call center job, it’s nothing to rejoice about. You can do so much better than that. The biggest lie that is told by the system of education is that you actually need a degree to achieve something in life. I don’t know about you, but that is a complete insult to human intelligence and capability. Just because one does not have a degree in Engineering doesn’t mean they can’t figure out how to construct a car. If that was true, then Henry Ford shouldn’t have been able to. Yes, it may be an exaggerated example, but that doesn’t mean it’s not relevant. One shouldn’t be relying on a four-year course just for the sake of employment; we’re all so much better than that. A potential employer won’t ask you what school you graduated from; they’d just look at your resume if they wanted to know that. The important question we’d all have to answer to them is “what can you do for me to make me want to hire you?” All the education in the world won’t help you if you can’t answer that question. Another thing that ticks me off about this secular education is they place too
much emphasis on jobs that would earn you a title. “Dr.”, “Engr.”, or “Atty.” Are just titles, nothing more. They are no more indication to one’s success in life as the pictures on a menu in a restaurant will tell you how delicious the food they serve is. The current educational system places too much importance on graduating college and joining the work force as soon as possible and expect you to make a millions based on your degree. What I’m saying is that college isn’t all bad; there are a lot of things you could learn that just can’t be taught anywhere else, now, what they say about college is a different college. College is not for everyone. It shouldn’t be requirement. But please, before you get any bright ideas, do not drop out of college based on a whim. You need to think long and hard about what you want in life and what you see yourself doing in twenty years. If you feel like you don’t need an education to help you reach your dreams, then by all means, chase those dreams. We were given advanced cognitive functions and the gift of logic for a reason. Moving on to my next point: why education for jobs needs to be smarter. A unique skill set is what’s important in finding a job. You have to be able to offer what no one else can; that’s what makes you an attractive prospect to an employer’s eyes. This is what education needs to be focusing on, especially at the college level. It should be less about classroom lectures or tedious exams but more about real-world application of knowledge and actual field experience, for the practical majors at least. You can’t learn how to be an entrepreneur just inside a classroom. You’re much better off running a garage sale; you’ll save a lot more money too.
need education to be more experienceoriented, not the conventional spoonfeeding we see going on right now. Teach a person to fish and all that. Sometimes, the system isn’t the only problem; the people are too. Our generation has grown too comfortable being handed lessons on a silver platter while the teacher feeds us the information with a silver spoon. It’s that complacency and the attitude of coasting is what prevents our educational system from getting any better. We are only as productive as we make ourselves to be. You can complain all you want about how you’re stuck at a soul-sucking desk job; about how you took a course your parents forced you into and you somehow find yourself blaming the educational system– somehow. Well let me tell you this right now, it’s as much your fault as it is theirs. Yes, the system may be flawed and your circumstances may have forced you into a corner, but that doesn’t mean you never had a choice. Take a class in medieval literature, learn basic computer programming, get an online degree in physics; hell, you can even join the debate team and learn how to speak in public. The possibilities are endless; you don’t have to let the system tell what you can and can’t do. You’re man/woman enough to know what you want, so you should know perfectly well how to get there. If there’s a will, there’s a way. To summarize everything I just said, if you choose to be trapped in a flawed system of narrow ideals and peer pressure, then that’s on you. Change must come from within. To quote the great American author Samuel Clemens, a.k.a. Mark Twain: “I have never let my schooling interfere with my education.” TC
I’ll agree that the K-12 education system is a step forward but for this to actually show results, we’ll need to stop clinging to the outdated belief that a college degree equals a high-paying job. We
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EDITORIAL
OF
FACTOR
AN
ILLUSTRATION BY K Growing up, we are asked the question “why are you in school?” by grown-ups and the answer was always simple , “to learn”. Usually, that was the end of the discussion, and we would be off to whatever it was that amused us at the time. Few years on, when we are asked or in some cases, ask ourselves the same question, the general correct answer is quite different “To graduate, get a good job, and be successful”. More often than not whatever notions of dreams, aspiration and ambition are deemed optional. To put it practically then, we are here in this university to graduate. The concept of higher learning then, with all its lofty scholarly ideals has been relegated to accessory, The Education System itself has become a factory. Looking back though, hasn’t it always been? In a case presented by Sir Ken Robinson about education paradigms, our current system of education (both public and private) “was designed, conceived and structured for a different age, the intellectual culture of the enlightenment and
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the economic circumstances of the industrial revolution”. It does not seem all that different in the Filipino context, especially considering the latter statement. A closer look into our educational system and we see it, modeled after the image and interests of industrialism and even globalization. We are arranged and put through the motions classified and defined by our date of manufacture, our date of birth. Globalization factors into this as well. It was not too long ago that our parents were pushing us to be (insert “uso” course here) that we find better lives and jobs (usually abroad). This attitude is still prevalent now, as department populations are more than skewed. Simply put, the factory now has a global demand bias to satisfy. Now, more than ever it has been increasingly about conformity. The dysfunctions of this mode of thinking are starting to become evident. Going past the brain drain resulting from Filipino Diaspora, our
RIES ND FARMS
KEVIN VAN OPURA nation has been overrepresented in some fields of study and innovation and underrepresented in others. Perhaps we should think beyond the factory walls and the linearity ingrained by the assembly line mentality. The old ideals are no longer enough to suit the situation, how can we be truly prepared for the economic situation post graduation if we cannot even predict what the economy will look like at the end of next week? The effects are clear, our factory is running on overdrive on old machinery, as expected from such; there is a lot of waste being belched out. The rising drop out rates in the country is proof of this. Such as it is, we must disenthrall ourselves from this factory concept, change the paradigm. Why not a farm instead of a factory? Why not an educational system based on the principles of agriculture rather than industrialization? I do not mean a literal shift to change the focus on agrarianism but a change on the ideological level. Given the situation we can no longer predict
and control and even enforce ability, talent, innovation and creativity but merely provide an environment for these to flourish. More and more we are divorced from our talents and our passions, we as a society have forgotten that development relies on a diversity of talents, not a singular concept of ability. This paradigm shift may not happen next year or even in the next decade; slowly but surely its happening, educators the world over are looking in to providing a better model for education, an alternative to the established fast food mentality. The change may begin here, in the hallowed halls of learning. We’re getting our college degrees in the hopes of a brighter future, and a chance to change it for the better. Above all that, the old answer still rings true, We are here to learn. TC
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SURVEY 2013
CAROLINIA 1. Do you know who we are? Yes 83% No 17%
Very good Bearable
16% 20%
8. Do you think that there 2. I am... is a free exchange of ideas Male 51% among students in the Female 48% university without the threat Other 1% of suspension, expulsion or disciplinary actions from the 3. What is your political administration? affiliation in the university? Yes 49% SPP 2% No 51% STAND 16% TINGOG 15% 9. Do you think that the USC None 67% labs are sufficiently equipped with modern and necessary 4. Do you think that the facilities? University of San Carlos is an Yes 46% excellent school? No 54% Yes 85% No 15% 10. Do you think that the materials in USC libraries are 5. Will you be voting during the updated? SSC elections? Yes 58% Yes 67% No 42% No 33% 11. Do you use the library? 6.Do you feel that there are Yes 87% things the university could No 13% improve on? Yes 99% 12. If yes, what do you do No 1% there? Study 53% 7. How was your enrollments Research 54% this semester? Free aircon 38% *People may select more than one Hell 12% checkbox, so percentages may add up to Fairly okay 52% more than 100%.
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Survey
Fifteen years since your pap Carolinian opinions. Like any b sequel. So 13. Do you think that USC teachers are competent in what they are doing? Yes 77% No 23% 14. Why are you studying for a degree? Parents’ will 7% To get a job 52% I want to learn 38% Nothing else to do 3% 15. Who chose your course? Parents 20% Me 76% God 4% 16. Do you care about university politics? Yes 51% No 49% 17. Do you think that the services and education you are getting are worth the fees you are paying? Yes 48% No 52%
ANS TODAY
y 2013
per published an exit poll of blockbuster, it deserves another o here it is. 18. As a child, did you enjoy our education? Yes 83% No 17% 19. What type of school did you go to during elementary? Public 34% Private 37% Catholic 23% Other 6% 20. High school? Public 23% Private 34% Catholic 36% Other 7% 21. Were you certain of your major as you first enrolled in the university? Yes 53% No 47% 22. I am a product of... Education 28% Society 22% God 6% Parents 44%
23. So far, do you think Noynoy Aquino is doing a good job? Yes 53% No 47% 24. What will you do after graduating? Take masters 26% Get a job 2% Nothing 53% Other 14% 25. What is your view of life after graduation? Optimistic 87% Pessimistic 13%
impeachment case? What case? 15% Should be criminalised 23% He was innocent 37% He was stupid 25% 31. Former President Arroyo’s ordeal? What case? 19% Noynoy went overboard 3% She was innocent 27% She deserved it 51% 32. Divorce Bill? Bad idea Good idea
60% 40%
26. What is your favourite subject? Majority: Math 23%
33. Will you be voting during the upcoming senatorial elections? Yes 46% 27. Do you enjoy learning? No 54%
Yes 97% No 3% 28. In terms of politics, are you a liberal or a conservative? Liberal 81% Conservative 19% 29. Honestly, do you care for politics? Yes 61% No 39% 30. What did you think of Former Chief Justice Corona’s
34. How do you feel about the “Gwen Garcia’’ affair at Capitol? Embarrassed/Annoyed 45% Joyous 5% Furious 33% Unsure 4% Apathetic 13%
35. Do you love your alma mater? Yes 88% No 12%
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ELECTION
SSC YEAR ENDER
EMMANUEL HERNANDEZ
The Student Supreme Council is one of the very first student organizations re-organized right after the end of the Marcos regime; and is one of the oldest student councils in the Republic. The role of the Supreme Student Council (SSC) is to “to promote the general welfare of the students, to assert and defend the rights of the students, to advocate Academic Freedom, and ultimately to uphold its constitution and that of the Republic of the Philippines.” SSC serves as the representatives and governing body of the student population. As it is the highest governing body concerning the students, it is imperative that a summary report be presented to show the activities and decisions the Council has made in behalf of the Carolinian student body for the past school year.
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ELECTION
Resolutions and decisions of the Council The following are resolutions the Student Council has passed: a. Freshman Starter Kit – a guide for freshmen, shiftees, transferees and foreign students.
in the forms of an official website, Facebook page and Twitter account for information dissemination and where students can address their concerns. i. SSC Leadership Training Seminar and Team Building – A seminar for the members of the SSC for skill building and camaraderie among them.
b. Formation of a Committee on Health – a committee “devoutly in charge of all endeavors geared towards upholding and safeguarding the health of the students”.
j. Utilization of Grievance Boxes – there are already grievance boxes (boxes where one can put their concerns in) in the three campuses (South, Downtown and Talamban) and their use is restored this year.
c. Creation of the Carolinians’ Summit – leadership training and overall student development.
k. Second University of San Carlos’ Warrior’s run – creating and approving the Warrior’s run.
d. An Ad Hoc committee for the Carolinians’ Summit – a committee focused on the organization of the Carolinians’ Summit.
l. Membership of the SSC in the Student Council Alliance of the Philippines for this school year 2012 – 2013
e. Carolinian Volunteers Group/ Special Working Committee – a committee made to promote student volunteerism and eradicate apathy among students.
m. Panagtapok 2012 – activities, including recruitments for organizations during the first few weeks of class.
f. Sports and Recreations Committee – devoted to the “campaign of sports, physical fitness, the USC Warriors and the USC talents.
n. Student Ecological Movement – activity on environmental awareness last Sept 19-22. o. U-Nite – bands performed on the night of Nov 16.
g. Ad Hoc committee on the review of the Student Assessment – for the “assessment, investigation, research and settlement of all the important things needed for the review of the student assessment”. h. USC Web Portal and Help Desk – a help desk for the first few days of classes and an online presence
p. Pasko sa USC – Christmas themed activity from Dec 10 to 14 q. Student Service Caravan – a “one stop shop” of the different services available to the Carolinian community. TC
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ELECTION
How was the performance of
LAST TERM’S SSC?
Photo by Gerard Theodore Alcuizar
The USC Supreme Student Council serves as the representatives of the Carolinian students. They become our spokespeople to voice out our opinions and school-related problems. They organize events and functions that are beneficial to Carolinians. Each year, an election is made to select Supreme Student Council President, Vice – President and 21 Councillors. Their term runs for a year. Before the campaign period for this year starts, we ask some Carolinians on their opinion about the performance of last term’s SSC. Kamelle Reigh Etang
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ELECTION
Apparently their term was good since it is SSC but the thing is that I wasn’t able to appreciate what they’ve done since I was still a newbie in the University and I don’t have that much information of what are the projects of the SSC. Patrick Piera BS ECE 2 In my three years of existence in this University, I think this year’s SSC is the best. I became more active/participative in Universitywide activities due to their efforts which made those activities very memorable and meaningful. John Pastoril AB-Philo 3 I don’t think they had much impact on the student body. I didn’t feel their presence in the school at all. When I think of the Supreme Student Council, I think of it as an imaginary club. Mikhayl Joshua Abellanosa BS ME 3 SSC is very organized. They have done their job very well. Jessa Balsa BS CompE-SE 1 I think effective sila sa ilang duties. Everyone is not perfect bitaw, so I think their efforts are more effective compared to the last SC. Marly Rose Watin BS BA-Finc 2 I find the current SSC’s performance to be quite exemplary because of their well-planned activities and the fact that they make effort in allowing every student to take part in university-wide events. Lou Edward Flores BS A 2 As an irregular student with a load of only 16 units, I can’t really assess the performance of the SSC. But if I had to, I didn’t really feel the
presence of the SSC. Christian L. Jimenez BS Arch 2 If I’m going to rate them from 1-10, it would be 10. Shanniena Yumi Maureal BS BA-FINC 2 The last term of SSC was good. Well, there have been lots of improvement in the Student Council and I like the way they bridged the gap between students and student government. Their plans were also realized and I can see how determined they were in creating change. Jecell Villacorte BS Psych 2 SSC performed their purposes well during the academic year. I am glad that the council was able to cater activities and render services suitable to the needs and wants of the Carolinians. I also commend the student leaders for not being partisan during their terms and instead tried their very best for the welfare of the students. Carl Lindl L. Silvela AB POSC-IRFS 2 The SSC has done a great job and has served the students well. With the big events they were able to plan and organize, we can see that they have given their full time and effort for the students to unite, have fun and feel at home in the Carolinian community. They’ve answered some of the students’ problems, and supported activities and programs that promote social awareness and personal development. Being a student leader entails tough responsibilities, and I salute them for their courage to take the challenge and for their dedication to fulfil their mission. Czarina Marie Asentista BS Pharm 2
The SSC welcomed us freshmen warmly in the university. There were a lot of fun activities to join. However, some of the activities weren’t properly organized or executed well and information is sometimes misleading. Aside from the activities though, you don’t feel much of their presence in the university. Pamelle May A. Gallardo BS Psych 1 If I will rate their performance, it would be Good, because they have done a good job in the previous Intramurals and there are a lot of days wherein we didn’t need to wear uniform. Claire Amores BS CE 2 Actually wa ko kaila sa SSC last year. Pero in all fairness, they did a great job sa pag organize sa school events, and they allowed the students’ voices be heard. They were awesome! Siobhan Weaver BS ECE 2 I don’t personally know the officers of the USC SSC but still I think that they’ve done their part as leaders. They have made a lot of events for the students to participate in like the U-nite, Tabosa TC, Warriors Run, etc. Jessa Marie O. Vallecera BSIE – 2 I don’t think the SSC did that much of a good job, it was rather mediocre. They didn’t tackle “essential issues” at all, they had no weight. All they did was to permit days without uniform. They were quite a bunch of party folk, having parties here and there. Loren Generoso BS Math 2
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Please provide a brief history of SPP.
President Alvin Clyde Gregorio
Vice-President Niño Paulo Ongluico
The Student Power Party started with members of the Carolinian Youth Ministry as its student members and Religious Education teachers as its advisers. The party started with its humble beginnings and now continuing its legacy as the party who continues to fight for students rights as reflected in its battle cry, “Students Unite, Fight for our Rights!” Explain your party’s platform.
Keisha Marie Abaiz
Thea Camille Chan
Clyde Emil Ausejo
Princess Joemineca Dato-on
Earolle Caballero
Clarisse Joyce de Jesus
SPP for the past fifteen years have continued to fight for empowerment. It has become the general platform of the party and can be summarized in ETC. E for Empowerment of the Student. T for Transparency and Accountability. And C for Community Service, since as what out USC Vision statement taught us, “What we have, we share”. Showcase your proposed project/s. In lined with ETC, for empowerment we shall continue to push through with Pasko sa USC in its 10th year, the USC Freshmen Starter Kit in its 8th year and new projects such as the Suroy Suroy sa USC and Need Help from your SSC. For Transparency and Accountability we shall continue to fight for visible sessions of the SSC, visible minutes of the meetings, and visible financial statements. And for Community Service, for the past 15 years we have partnered with different charity institutions and we intend to continue it in the next terms. What is the basis for your party to choose its political slate for the upcoming elections?
Natasha Angel Manuel
Trixie Gayle Maraya
Lyle Navarro
We consider SPP as a family, a family of diverse people coming from different colleges, courses and fields of interests. As for the political slate, as long as the student leaders involved have the willingness to serve and the passion for servant leadership, then he/she is good for the position inside the party. How do you involve your members in the creation of the slate?
Mikaela Pacubas
Ma. Gleiza Po
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Arnick Neil Quijada
The members are involved in the creation of the slate, because the party makes sure that those who get invited are those who also exemplify SPP’s core values, because as much as possible, there should be a continuity of the
ELECTION
party’s values. In considering those who will run for the slate, the alumni and present party members are consulted and when the names are flaunted, the council (composed of past and present members) deliberates on the aptness or similarity of those considered with the party ideals that have, for the most part, remained constant since the party’s creation 15 years ago. Aside from organizing events and seminars, what else can your party do for the student body? SPP places premium on student empowerment, and as such, it will strive to involve students in the crafting and determination of school policies that will ultimately affect them. For example, students will be consulted by means of a plebiscite each time there are policies that will be proposed by the administration. On top of this student empowerment platform, SPP will also strive to make the SSC more visible to the students, and this the party will do by making sure that the attendance of the SSC officers will be shown to everyone, and that all expenses will be thoroughly liquidated and shown to the students.
INTER V I E W with SPP
What do you think is the most important issue to be addressed by the SSC in the university? It is the party’s submission that the greatest issue to be addressed right now is student apathy, or involving the students to the day to day affairs of the university. Student involvement is essential because ultimately, students are subsumed under the university setting, and it is only proper and fitting that they be actively involved in issues that will ultimately affect their affairs.
Domenic Reynes
Maria Lourdes San Pedro
Kieth Saya-ang
Kimberly Siao
Katrina Soco
Paul Mart Tisoy
Grant Slevin Uy
David Benjamin Ybañez
Erik Anthony Ybañez
How will your party enforce accountability to your councilors (if ever they win)? SPP has always prided itself with the fact that its councillors have low tardiness instances when they get elected into the SSC. Furthermore, accountability when it comes to their actions is assured by the fact that each time they propose programs or projects, they systematically consult with current and past party members, so that they can craft policies that are not only sound, but are furthermore beneficial to the students in general. How will your party work together with other parties after the election? SPP has always been known to be collaborative with the other parties when it comes to school projects and Continued on page 32
27 TODAY’S CAROLINIAN MAR 2013
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INTER VIEW w i t h STAND
Please provide a brief history of STAND. Student Alliance for Nationalism and Democracy (STAND) is the oldest and most progressive political party in the University of San Carlos, and, some would even say, even in the entire Philippines. The party traces its roots way back in the 1980s during the Martial Law era. President Ferdinand Marcos suspended the continued existence of student councils and student publications. While the country was clouded in struggles, political and social, students within the University constituted the “Student Coalition” (which was, later on, changed to STAND), made up of students, fraternities, and organizations like the student organizations from the departments of Political Science, History, Anthropology, Engineering, which aimed to address the oppression brought about by the distress springing from the subsistence of martial law. The consistent efforts of the Student Coalition led to the revival of the Supreme Student Government and the Today’s Carolinian, in effect, the University of San Carlos was the first university in the Philippines who got its student council and independent student publication back. Since then, STAND has continuously been at the forefront in the protection of student rights, advancement of student welfare, and in solidarity with other sectors, within and without USC. Explain your party’s platform.
President Zachary Water Mari Selma
Vice-President Amery Kristie Tumulak
Marnon Emmaneul Abudiente
Franbeau Rhaz Beduya
Rosa May Belarmino
Cherry Ruth Cacanog
Nicette Cabahug
Grant Cainta
28 TODAY’S CAROLINIAN MAR 2013
STAND has been the bastion of student rights and welfare as espoused in our general programs of action. Since then, STAND’s platform has been advancing the rights of students, promoting student welfare and advocating solidarity among other sectors. During the presidency of Frances Jan Villarino, STAND wanted to bring the SSC back to the students. During the administration of Michael Benedict Yauna, STAND endeavored to bring the fight to greater heights. It’s like a trilogy. This year, STAND will venture to go back to the grassroots, to strengthen the students and the student organizations. After all, the raison d’etre of the SSC is predicated on the very existence of the students and student organizations. Showcase your proposed project/s. In line with this year’s general theme, STAND will offer three banner projects. First, Financial Assistance to working scholars. Second, subsidy for recognized and unrecognized student organizations with projects having deficient funds. Third, awarding of Top Organizations (TOPORG), whether recognized by the OSA or otherwise. STAND believes that education must not be commercialized, repressive, and colonial. STAND wants every Carolinian to grow holistically and we want an environment where every student and every student organization can grow. However, the abovementioned projects are but three of the many projects and programs that STAND will bring to the students.
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STAND continues to struggle for the advancement of student rights, promotion of student welfare, and solidarity among other sectors. We continue to struggle against repressive school policies, excessive and unjustified school fees, and student apathy. What is the basis for your party to choose its political slate for the upcoming elections?
Mark Calabdan
Choosing candidates for STAND is, more often than not, a simple process as opposed to one that is tedious and complex. We undergo a process we call “Social Investigation”. This is manifested in three ways by which we come up with a political slate: a. Current members refer individuals whom they think are deserving to run b. Others show willingness to serve and find STAND as an avenue to do so c. Some are scouted and pursued, as per performance in the different fields to which they belong.
Gabrielle Marcelo Cerna
Jan Karl Damiles
Monna Lorriane de Rama
Clarizza Duhaylungsod
Jeffrey Ken Ecarma
Jhun Rey Genove
Maria Gigante
Niña Maey Oplado
Steve Padogdog
Sofio James Rosal
Myles Samson
Juel Romeo Songkit II
Thereafter, the STAND Executive Committee reviews and makes the final decision, oftentimes, with the affirmation and concurrence of alumni and current members. One important consideration in choosing the candidates, however, is thatthey believe in the principles of STAND and live by it. How do you involve your members in the creation of the slate? As can be seen in the answer of the immediately preceding question, current STAND members conduct the social investigation. They can refer, they can scout and pursue, and oftentimes, their concurrence or affirmation is asked when the STAND ExeCom reviews and decides who will be running for the party. Aside from organizing events and seminars, what else can your party do for the student body? STAND’s thrust this year is to strengthen students and student organizations, in effect, STAND wants the students to develop and grow holistically. Events and seminars will always be a given. However, STAND amplifies the need to reduce student apathy, struggle against repressive policies and excessive and unjustified school fees. STAND, thus, will advance student rights and promote student welfare. STAND recognizes that SSC’s programs be directed to such problems. Continued on page 32
29 TODAY’S CAROLINIAN MAR 2013
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President Kyle Joseph Alo
Vice-President Lucille Quisaot
INTER V I E W w i t h TINGOG
Jana Alyssa Aala
Vene Seane Aljas
Khen Aquino
Carlo Enrico Campilan
Aaron Sage Caparas
Rodel James Diana
Gea Abigail Ecoy
Shedwin Mae Escobido
Carlyn Danise Fernandez
James RJ Florentino
Clarence Jacques Lim
Michael Billy Mahinay
Princess Marie Maraya
Shoji Nakazawa
Arianne Paralisan
Nicole Ann Ponce
Joseph Kenneth Siasar
James Michael Uy
Lloyd Jeffrey Atillo
Julius Basil Aguja
Danica Bellaflor
30 TODAY’S CAROLINIAN MAR 2013
ELECTION Please provide a brief history of TINGOG Currently celebrating its 25th year, TINGOG was formed in 1988 when student leaders from various student organizations and ACCESS (a campus political party regarded by many as TINGOG’s predecessor) came together to provide an alternative to the left-leaning campus politics of the time. Clearly, a paradigm shift was in order. After the EDSA People Power Revolution of 1986, there were strong sentiments against the pervading extreme leftist-oriented student politics of the early ‘80s. Such method and ideology were deemed no longer relevant and responsive to the burning issues of the time, both within the university and throughout society at large, where students deserved a more positive, proactive, constructive and participatory approach to campus politics.They collectively embraced the following party principles to guide TINGOG member-leaders for decades to come: Active Non-Violence, Authentic Christian Humanism, Liberating Christianity, Pro-People Democracy, and Filipino Nationalism. Servant Leadership and Environmental Stewardship were added to the list of party principles three years ago to replace Liberating Christianity. Party elders (alumni) and student members gathered at a summit decided the two principles were crucial for TINGOG both as a campus party and as a premier leadership training organization in a rapidly changing world beset with multifarious issues like climate change, sustainable development, and moral/ethical leadership. The party color PINK represents Active Non- Violence (ANV), one of TINGOG’s core principles. Another color for ANV is orange, and this is the color used by Mahatma Gandhi, one of the prime crusaders of the ANV philosophy. Explain your party’s platform TINGOG Carolinian envisions a STUDENT GOVERNMENT that is participatory and democratic, a LEADERSHIP that is unifying and firm, a STUDENT AGENDA that is total and holistic, and a STUDENT COUNCIL that is genuine and supreme. WE COMMIT... to provide STUDENT ASSISTANCE, to promote STUDENT DEVELOPMENT, to ensure STUDENT EMPOWERMENT… to always put the STUDENTS FIRST! Showcase your proposed project/s We bring to you 12 different platforms for the forthcoming academic year that specially caters to the Carolinians, all in line with our party’s thrusts: Student Assistance, Student Development, and Student Empowerment. For information dissemination, consistency of policy implementation, and to report facilities that may need repair or urgent attention, we bring: - the WIFI or Windows for Information PCCI or Proper Consultation and Consistent
Implementation of Policies) - CCDA or the Carolinian Campus Development Authority - One Seat. Unleashing the Hope Warrior in you, we offer: - CVG or the Carolinian Volunteers Group - The Carolinian Summit - Warriors in Action - ICONNECT - STEM or the Student Ecological Movement Carolinians deserve only the best, so we commit: - The U-NITE (a.k.a. the University Night) - Pasigarbo Kada Departamento - I.D.iscount (making our USC IDs a discount card for various stores and establishments). What is the basis for your party to choose its political slate for the upcoming elections? The TINGOG Carolinian Party aims to continue to serve the Carolinian community with utmost dedication and excellence. For 25 years now, the TINGOG Carolinian Party is proud of the brand of leadership we espouse. We scout for prospective candidates who’ve shown skills required in leadership: scholastic aptitude, notable community and/or in-school involvement, outstanding or promising leadership track- record, good moral character, creativity and innovation, among others. They then go through a stringent interview, screening, selection, and training process that involves other bona fide members of the party, with the guidance and mentorship of our party elders and distinguished alumni. During the orientations, we always advise a prospective TINGOG Carolinian to carefully examine their conscience, their political preferences (i.e. if they are extremely left-leaning by heart, we strongly advise them to choose the other party because they exists for that reason, to cater to that segment of the Carolinian population; we don’t force them to join TINGOG just because they may be winnable) before accepting our invitation. As much as we celebrate unity, we also believe in individuality. Suffice to say, we encourage unity in diversity. However, not everyone who wants to run can run; willingness to serve and active involvement are non-negotiable requisites. Furthermore, they have to subscribe to the Party’s principles (mentioned in our party history), a common denominator. How do you involve your members in the creation of the slate? The process is very democratic; everyone can speak up during deliberations. The core group of TINGOG Carolinian, elected the school year before by members (students and alumni alike), is responsible for the final selection of the candidates for the yearly slate.
Continued on page 32
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Interview with
SPP
Continued from page 27 programs. For this year, SPP also envisions the same, as the primary accountability of SPP is to the students. Corollarily therefore, the party is willing to collaborate with the other party members who will be proposing worthwhile projects for the student population – because again, this is the ultimate thrust of student leadership. Your message to your fellow students The Student Power Party intends to make a difference. We intend to take seriously campus politics as a necessary preparation for adult life. Contrary to current bigger society politics, we will promote a politics of issue, not of personalities. We intend to break the students’ apathy and develop involvement. We will not be simply observers nor passive takers of whatever will be fed to us. Instead, we will be active players in the molding process we are going through in the university. TC
Interview with
STAND
of fiduciary relationship between the officers and the student body. Accountability, in every student body or organization, is an essential element for its continued existence. Corruption, in any of its forms, cannot and should not be tolerated. If allowed, it will be a farce, a mockery of the trust given by the students to the officers of the Supreme Student Council. In the final analysis, then, it calls for a stricter enforcement of a check-and-balance mechanism. How will your party work together with other parties after the election? One of the three principles of STAND is to be in solidarity with other sectors. In furtherance of the goal of strengthening the students and student organizations, it will be indispensable that we be non-exclusionary to every person or organization who envisions the same goal. Your message to your fellow students We want you to understand that you matter and that you have a certain uniqueness and individuality that must be respected. Be part of a change that will forever transform the face of our University. This change might not be now and today, but soon, it will come, and know that it started with you, with our collective effort. Break the walls of apathy. Be strong. STAND strong. TC
Continued from page 29 What do you think is the most important issue to be addressed by the SSC in the university? Apathy. This problem has been recurring year after year and has grown exponentially. Although, admittedly, it cannot be solved by a few programs/policies nor by an administration with a life span of one school year, STAND surmises that the solution has to start now. It is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted solution. STAND is convinced that in order to reduce such problems, the students need to feel, understand, and know that they are stakeholders in every decision of its organizations, departments, Supreme Student Council, and even of the USC administration. Usahay man gud, maonang apathetic ang mga estudyante, kay gatuo sila nga wala silay labot ug ang mga panghitabo sa ilang palibot kay maka apekto kanila. Ang kasagaran iingon sa mga estudyante kay “ila ra man na, sa ilang (insert department or organization here) ra man na nga activity. Wa koy makuha ana.” How will your party enforce accountability to its councilors (if ever they win)? Being in the Supreme Student Council calls for a high degree
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Interview with TINGOG Continued from page 31 Aside from organizing events and seminars, what else can your party do for the student body? TINGOG enjoys a track record of always going that extra mile; we always initiate projects even outside the student council. Also, students can be assured of excellent representation, of having leaders they can trust and count on to ably promote and defend their interests and fight for them when need be. What do you think is the most important issue to be addressed by the SSC in the university? Issues evolve. The most pressing issue now may not be relevant in three months or next semester. This presupposes that the SSC and its leadership must be flexible to students’ changing needs whilst making sure they live up to commitments made during the elections. It’s a delicate balance to say the least. An election of an SSC officer and the party he/she represents is proof of the Carolinians’ support of his/her party’s platform, of
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their specific programs of action. It is therefore incumbent upon each and every SSC officer and the student council as a whole to realize the platforms promised during the campaign. This, and of course, being ready with creative solutions, innovations, and the zeal to arrive at the most effective, efficient, and/or equitable resolution for the unique challenges (or divisive issues, as the case may be) that lay ahead . However, for TINGOG, one issue that needs the SSC’s unequivocal attention in the mid to the long term is USC’s vision of a Univer-city. While it is an ambitious and commendable vision, we ought to ask: where do students and quality education fit in in the larger scheme of things? We must ensure as early as now that our identity is preserved, our interests assured, our security ascertained, and our voices heard more in this bold master plan for the future, otherwise all is defeated and a grand vision is put to waste. How will your party enforce accountability to its councilors (if ever they win)? Through proper task delegation and transparency. It goes without saying that there should be proper documentation on who is assigned to what task; after all, the first step in taking responsibility for your actions begins with actually knowing what your responsibilities are. This is not to assign blame if anything should go wrong, but rather to provide a means of knowing who exactly to ask should any concerns come up. Transparency also plays a key role because it is vital in making one responsible for his actions; being elected as an officer entails being in a position of trust and confidence and an SSC officer should therefore be transparent with his dealings and actions in the spirit of good governance. TINGOG is a human organization and we admit that despite the stringent process we employ in selecting the best of the best, some extraneous variables, exigent circumstances, may get in the way of an officer fulfilling their function to the best of their ability. This does not go unnoticed as TINGOG is always the first
to police our own ranks. How will your party work together with other parties after the election? TINGOG believes in the Students First Policy; the moment a student leader is elected to be a part of the SSC, his/her responsibility should be primarily to serve the students. “My loyalty to my party ends when my service and loyalty to the students begin.” A project proposed by an SSC officer, regardless of party affiliation, should not be contested for so long as the objective is clear, the budget is reasonable and justified, and that it is ultimately beneficial to the students. What is truly important is to set aside our differences and work together as one Supreme Student Council to best serve the student body; to serve the very people who placed their trust in us; and to realize the programs/platforms we’ve promised to deliver during the campaign. In order to work together we need to remember that despite our differences, in the end, we are all Carolinians. Your message to your fellow students With only 12 councilors and our vice president this year, TINGOG still managed to deliver the biggest and the most projects from the SSC—that’s both quantity and quality. This says a lot about TINGOG’s commitment to give the Carolinians what is due them. Rest assured, more is in store in the coming year. That said, please don’t forget to exercise your right to vote on election day. Vote wisely. Ikaw ang TINGOG sa Carolinians, kitang tanan ang TINGOG sa Carolinians. Make TINGOG your VOICE, Make TINGOG your CHOICE! TC
MESSAGE from a Carolinian To the future leaders of the council, Strive to be critical. Forget not your essential role. Be the voice of sobriety and truth. Use your intellect in promoting the truth, your will in choosing what is ought. Be an exemplar in character and spirit. And most importantly, never settle in mediocrity. Anonymous
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THE DATES As organized by the University of San Carlos – Commission on Election, the details are hereby presented: March 4, 2013 (Monday) Grand Rally (Talamban Campus)
March 11, 2013 (Monday) Release of Election Results Post-election Protests March 13, 2013 (Wednesday) Deadline of post-election protests
March 5, 2013 (Tuesday) Grand Rally (Main Campus)
March 14, 2013 (Thursday) Release of OFFICIAL LIST OF DULY ELECTED USC-SSC OFFICIALS
March 6, 2013 (Wednesday) Silent Day
March 15, 2013 (Friday) Oath-taking and Proclamation of Winners Submission of Report of Expenditures
March 7, 2013 (Thursday) ELECTION DAY
VOTERS’ QUALIFICATION Must be officialy enrolled in an Undergraduate/ Graduate/ Certificate/ Diploma Degree Program of the University of San Carlos. Those enrolled in two or more colleges shall be registered as such, only in the college where he/she is primarily enrolled. A cross-enrollee may qualify as an elector if he/she is enrolled in not less than two subjects and only in the college where he/ she takes the greatest number of his cross-enrolled or special subjects.
1 2 3 4 5
GROUNDS FOR DISQUALIFICATION OF VOTERS A Voter may be disqualified from voting if: He/She has been suspended for a period of more than one month as of the election day. He/She has been found guilty of violating any provision of the USC – SSC Constituion within one year immediately preceding the election.
HOW TO VOTE Visit any of the polling precincts in DOWNTOWN CAMPUS Artur Dingman Building Room your campus. 3 SBE Library Present your ID to the unlocker to SLG Library CNET Main activate your account. Proceed to voting area. You are given 5 minutes to access you account; otherwise, it will be blocked and will need to be reactivated again by the unlocker.
SOUTH CAMPUS CNET South TECHNOLOGICAL CENTER Philip Van Englen Building PE 31 , Psych 1 Lab
Each voter is only given a maximum Arnoldous Science Building of 10 minutes to vote. Extension Click on the name of your chosen D 316 (11:00 am to 04:00 pm) candidates. After having completed your ballot, submit your form online. Lawrence Bunzel Building LB 445 You have to casted your votes!
34 TODAY’S CAROLINIAN MAR 2013
College of Architecture and Fine Arts Building AF 206 (Old CAFA Library) (Informations stated above are received from USC COMELEC Chairperson Ms. Charmaine Brigoli. The latter are upon tentativity and are subject to change without notice.)
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INTERVIEW with the COMELEC What steps are you taking in order to ensure a higher vote-turn-out this elections?
screenings to determine the integrity, honesty and dedication of the committee?
For this year’s elections, our major step on ensuring higher vote-turn-out is moving the Election Day on a Thursday. The COMELEC decided on this to give consideration to most colleges who does not have class on Fridays. We expect a higher number his year since most students will be in campus. We are also doubling our effort on proper information dissemination to keep the students updated with the right information, for them to know of the activities especially the process of voting. We are employing bulletins and tarpaulins with the information along with our official website, www.usccomelec.org.
In COMELEC, we value the spirit of volunteerism. Aside from the old members from the previous years who are still willing to be a part of the team, we also accept volunteers from each college. We have College Council Commissioners who scout members per college that briefs them with the necessary tasks they will be doing while on the team. To become a member of the group, we make sure that every COMELEC personnel is ready to offer and commit their time and effort in the service of ensuring a fair, clean and smooth elections without having to jeopardize their own studies.
Are there any special changes in the campaign and election process this year? Aside from the abovementioned change of Election Day date aimed at catering to the needs of some colleges who doesn’t have Friday classes, this year, we are also extending the election calendar to seven weeks. This will be giving another additional week for the campaign of the candidates. This is due to the very tight schedule on the week of the initially proposed February 28 elections. I would like to inform everyone that, as we are again adopting the automated elections for the third year now, the entire process of voting is still the same. The COMELEC official page, which was launched last year, is still running to give updates regarding the elections and activities of the COMELEC this year and also from the previous years. I would like to take this opportunity to invite everyone to visit the official COMELEC website, usc.comelec. org, to be informed with the latest news, updates and necessary information regarding the elections. How does one join the COMELEC committee? Are there any special
Were there any problems during last year’s election that the student body should know? As a member of the COMELEC last year, I think the one problem that concerned us the most was the Election Day which was scheduled on a Friday. As we all know, some colleges starting last year does not have class on that day especially the School of Business and Economics. We did our best to encourage students to go to school and vote, as we issued uniform exemption for the students at the Main Campus and convinced some colleges to give extra points for voting students. But as each student is entitled with their right to suffrage, we could not oblige them to vote. It did and does always boil down unto the willingness and initiative of the students to vote.
encourage them to exercise their right to suffrage. It is also important to ensure the students the sanctity of their vote as the COMELEC is tasked at keeping fair, honest and clean elections. How will you ensure the smooth flow of the grand rally? There is no better way to but to properly inform the candidates with the rules and regulations set by the COMELEC to ensure the order of the Grand Rally. To guarantee the smooth flow, the COMELEC would also be mindful and vigilant in reprimanding prohibited acts done during the Grand Rallies. It is with importance that each candidate be well aware of their actions. Bashings and mudslinging would not be tolerated. Let them be reminded that they are student leaders and it would really be a disappointment to the observing Carolinians if they show inappropriate conduct during these events. Message to fellow students: The change lies within us. It is your prerogative to exercise your right to suffrage but let your actions be guided with rational reason.
What have you learned from last year’s elections?
On March 7, 2013, Thursday, get your votes counted. Start the change. TC
From last year, I could say that it is with utmost importance to make sure that every Carolinian is well-informed with the activities, schedules, process and other necessary information regarding the elections ahead of time if possible. In keeping the students posted, this will
Charmaie Guisadio Brigoli Chairperson, SSC COMELEC
35 TODAY’S CAROLINIAN MAR 2013
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ARE YOU READY TO
VOTE?
Checking The State of Carolinians’ Right to Suffrage
Niveno Ocdinaria
In the democracies of our time, governmental decision-making is always influenced under the condition of its people’s participation. In the Philippines, its Constitution itself, confers to its people that it is in them where the supreme power of the state dwells within. And one of the most critical ways that individuals can do so is– by voting. Voting, otherwise known as the Right to Suffrage, is denoted as a formal expression of partiality for a candidate for office or for a proposed resolution of an issue. Tradition has set our visions to familiarities when it comes to voting– that it takes place in the context of a national or regional elections, local elections and even school elections. However, school elections which is commonly viewed as a small-scale election can equally or tremendously be faultfinding with all the other aforementioned elections. The right to suffrage embodies the spirit of Philippine democracy. In the same way that when it is applied in the University’s set-up, we, when voting, value the importance of the
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democratic system we have. When we exercise our right to vote for student leaders with the epitome in standards of excellence, the votes we cast reach far beyond one election, it goes far beyond one’s choice. When we vote, we are able to elect individuals who will make functional decisions for our behalf. As we mark our choices on who we want serving the student government, our hope for progress, furtherance and headway dwells with it. Now that the time for historic decision making, wether whose promising lies we are to believe, is about to preoccupy the students’ intelectual faculties, it is best to check the condition of some of the Carolinians’ outview with the upcoming SSC Election.
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Are you ready to vote for the upcoming SSC Election? Why?
No. Naka vote nako sauna pero napugos rako kay required sa dept kay kun di mi muvote, iblock mi sa ISMIS. Pero kun buot huna hunaon, di jud unta ko ganahan muvote kay sama ra na sa gipa take kag entrance exam sa imong parents sa isa ka eskwelahan nga di ka ganahan, mao ang resulta ana mag taka taka na lang kag answer sa exam. Conrado Geromo Jr. BS ICT 1 Yes I am ready to vote because I think whoever is going to run for a position in our student government has willingness and leadership. And it is up to them who stands out. Cherlyn Mae Uy BS BA Legal Management 3 Yes. I would want someone with the qualification of being a good student leader to represent us, the students here in USC. If I would not vote, I may deprive not only me but also the rest of the population of the chance of having such a leader. Desiree Joy Lagnason BS Pharma 3 Yes. Because voting helps me remember that we, the students, are still the ones in power. The only problem now is that almost 80% of the students do not exercise their right to vote. We argue, we complain, we say bad things about our school, but we don’t vote. How are we ever going to get a better life in school if we leave the student council in the wrong hands? We should exercise our right to vote in order to experience a better life in college. Paolo Palabrica BS CompE 2 I am ready to vote because for me I am ready to choose those people whom i think are willing to be in the position in our student government Rom Joyce Balucan BSBA Major in Marketing 3 Yes, Because I am ready for change! Abigail Dahlberg BFA-FD 1 Yes because I’m supporting for my bet to win this elections and to help other
Carolinians in choosing leaders that could defend our rights as a Carolinian. Mikhael Morris Lim BS ECE 4 Yes because I belive that the future of the school lies in our hands, the students. John Linwell Pasok BS ME –LP 1 Di pa ko ready kay wala pa loy alamag sa mga taw labi na dire. Leny Grace Montano BS ND 4 No. Unya since 1st year, wa pa ko nivote. I dont know them man gud unya, I dont care pud. LOL! Para nako kay non sense ako pag vote kay mao lage, wa koi na ilhan. Anonymous BS HRM 3 I’m not that ready yet, nor am I that excited. Just like any ordinary students, I’ll just go with the flow but I won’t really ponder much about how I will exercise my right to vote since I am not 18 yet. But since I had been given the privilege to experience voting in SSC last year, - it is a way for me to practice how to be wise in choosing the right people to put on the seat as my candidate and as well as to ready myself to become a registered voter. Swayze Pondar BS CE 2 I think I’m not ready to vote this coming SSC election because I still don’t know the candidates yet. They haven’t made their campaigns and haven’t presented their platforms to making the University better. Kyle Hubert Ocoy BS ID 1 Yes. Because I want to exercise my right as a voter and I want to vote for those whom I know can fulfill their duties and can be great carolinian leaders. Wakoo BS CE 4 Yes, because it would make me proud to be one of those who determined the people who will help shape 2013-2014 for us Carolinians. Cesar Carlos Heyrosa BS ChE 2
leader in particular, na mu- “lead” gyud sa mga studyante. Kanang tinuoray na essence sa pag “lead”, di ng maayu ra nag pangampanya, dayun ug mudaog na kalimtan lang ilang responsibilities. Di kay, students man sila, so kibaw pod sila kun unsa’y atong bation. Harris Baldon BS CompE SE 3 It depends, maybe Yes or maybe No. I think it would be more appropriate if I would hear the promises, fullof flowering words, of those eager candidates who want to serve the students. After that, I’ll decide if it is a Yes or a No. Michael Harem Raymundo BS EE 2 I dont know because I’m not really interested on the upcoming SSC Election. Its not that I am being passive but I also bare the confidence that my fellow Carolinians can intelectually choose who they know are deserving for the position. Hanna Mae Montefalcon BS Psych 2 No. Busy ko sa school, lovelife, friends ug ubang butang. Maybe ma ready nako soon. Pero karon wa pagyud na sa akong mind ang student politics. Mas concerned pako karon sa economic stability sa atong country on how the current goverment and it’s people can achieve an inclusive and sustainable economic growth para ma lessen na ang atong mga impoverished countrymen. Oh dba,layo ragyd ako utok sa umaabot na student election Romeo Ganelo Jr. BS ECE 4 Yes. Ever since I was in 1st year I’ve voted every year. Most of the time the SSC makes changes, but not too big ones. I was shocked when Today’s came back because I never expected it to be back with the ‘revival’ of The Carolinian. I’m glad that the previous SSC took notice to bring Today’s Carolinian back. I’m sure the next batch will do as much as of a good job. Go SSC! Power to you! Nikki Go HRM 4
Yes kay kinahanglan ta ug tao, student
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A REFLECTION ON TRANSPARENCY THE SUPREME STUDENT COUNCIL AND STUDENT POLITICAL PARTIES
SMITH DWIGHT CABE
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According to the International Standards of Supreme Audit Institutions (ISSAI) by the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI) accountability and transparency are two important elements of good governance. This is one characteristic by which democracy is built upon. As citizens in a nation labeled as having one of the most corrupt governments in the world, it is our challenge to correct this. The same challenge confronts us students too.
Community.
As leaders of our own rights, we want to be the model by which others would follow. In connection to that, the University of San Carlos Supreme Student Council (USC SSC) is expected to have these characteristics as duly elected leaders and representatives of the Carolinians. As carved on top of the Cebu City Hall’s front door frames, “Public Office is Public Trust.” The same principle applies to this leadership and to the leadership of other student organizations.
STAND ANSWERS:
Recently, the outgoing USC SSC (AY 2012-2013) released their Statement of Cash Flow on their Facebook page. It is, as I would like to believe, a showcase of their being more transparent. This is a democratic mechanism that which the students may involve themselves in the business of the SSC—that it is the business of every student. Students, as I hope, are encouraged to participate in the council’s transactions—to scrutinize, to criticize, and to praise.
(3) Campaign transparency in terms of funds used during campaign is very important, at an early stage (before getting in the council), practicing transparency shows how the party uses their own funds which of course would reflect on how they would use the students’ funds/SSC Funds when they get seats in the council.
(1) Our major source of funds are from sponsorships and solicitations from individuals who support our cause, most of which are STAND alumni. Additionally, candidates contributes certain sum of money and expenses are supplemented by personal contributions of party members through a sinking fund. (2) Yes. COMELEC mandates that party expenses be liquidated and submitted such that they do not exceed the amount allowed by the election code. (3) It is of utmost importance. There is a need for transparency for parties to be held accountable for their affairs. TINGOG ANSWERS:
Come elections, we need to elect new and maybe old members to the council again. We face the questions: who, why, and what. Who am I going to vote to represent me in the council? Why will I vote for him/her/them? Why should I even bother to vote? What good will it do to me if I vote? What will they do for me if I vote him/her/them? We’d like to help you with that.
(1) In its 25 years of existence in the university, the TINGOG Carolinian Party has grown a wide network of TINGOG alumni excelling in different fields in the industry. We have always been very privileged to have them with us. Every time we need their assistance, they would be the first ones to come over and help us with our trainings and even our financial needs. We are very humbled to receive these from our alumni to fuel our Hope warriors for the campaign each year.
In this article, we interviewed the chairman of each of the three prominent student political parties in USC. We asked them questions regarding transparency in campaign spending: (1) How does your party gather funds for election campaigns? Where/ From whom is it from? (2) Does your party send-in liquidation of campaign spending to the USC Commission on Elections (USC COMELEC)? (3) How important is campaign transparency?
(2) The Party does send-in liquidation of campaign spending to the USC COMELEC as per mandate of the election code. The Liquidation includes the total amount of funds gathered from the alumni and from the candidates themselves. We also abide by the restrictions of the COMELEC for spending per student.
Here are their answers in verbatim: SPP ANSWERS: (1) Funds used every year during the campaign come from different sources. A. Fund raising activities of the party which may include selling of party merchandise selling B. Candidates’ Contribution: Candidates, in their discretion, give their monetary pledges to the party.
(3) TINGOG Carolinian has always been steadfast in our pursuit for transparency. We strongly believe in the importance of proper disclosure and the involvement that the Carolinians should have. It is a major concern especially that unregulated campaign transparency often leads to creating an uneven playing field. Most often, some who posses more than the challenging party could use this to create an advantage and to the disadvantage of the other and I believe that this is a very serious problem. The election code is present to guide all of the involved to follow and I hope for a very successful 2013 student council elections. TC
(2) Yes. Student Power Party is proud to say, with citation from last year’s COMELEC Chair, that we have always been one of the first to submit liquidation reports of the expenses after every election period. This is our way of keeping our promise of transparency and accountability to the whole Carolinian
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going beyond colors Christie Marie Alga
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Political parties are the underlying institutions and are vital organizations in a democratic system of government. There are ample numbers of political parties with varied ideologies in the political system of the Philippines. In the University, we also have three major student political parties who bring with them their different political ideologies which are all driven by the advocacy of promoting and advancing student welfare. On the 4th week of February, the USC student body will again listen to the different campaigns of these parties, observe as these parties present and explain their different platforms and then participate the annual elections of the university. It is during election period that we get to witness students who are running for positions in the council engage in creative party advertising, bashing each other, and exposing of truths and half-truths. An ordinary student can see the dynamics as these parties bring forth each of the party’s different ideologies, agendas and promises at the same time.
However the whole student body wishes that the clash we see during election period does not spill out into their term. On the previous political years in the university, it has been said and described that partisan politics has gridlocked the student body for far too long. Implementation of projects and delivering of responsibilities have been affected with the political cleavages and adversary relations. True, political partisanship develops the party’s political ideology and strengthens their belief in their principles which consequently leads to the direction of their leadership. Also, the diversity of colors and variety of political ideas and principles thereby help structure the voting behavior of the students. However this should not unhelpfully affect the SSC’s implementation of projects and accomplishment of their tasks and responsibilities. Instead this could be a venue for intense and rigorous discussion and planning for concrete projects and activities which can truly uphold the welfare and interest of the entire student body. After all, whether we are affiliated to one political color
or not, as one student body in the university, we have the same issues that need to be faced together. Hence we call for an SSC which can best represent the students without the need of maligning, criticizing or competing with other parties. We realize and recognize that election is an important activity for the university and the students. It is a democratic process where we get to choose our leaders who are going to uphold the students’ interests for the whole academic year-round. Therefore we can demand these political parties to genuinely and collectively work together after winning the elections. This may sound ideal but we should not stop from hoping for one Supreme Student Council who can lead by example. It is until then that we can truly feel that the Supreme Student Council is one with the student body in strengthening unity as students, in whichever color, face challenges and celebrate victories in the university. TC
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TRIBES TREMORS TRIBULATIONS ON FILIPINO GROUP ‘FEELS’ AND SOCIAL CONFLICTS DYLAN BRIONES
I remember my days in high school, when it was “cool” to be in a gang. Such as it was, probably for the better, I wasn’t “cool” enough. However one question always rang through my very young and naïve mind; “Why do they hate each other?”. So I asked around, the rhetoric and the language of the answers I got were very colorful to say the least, but there really was never much of a cause. If there were, it was mostly based on short-sighted assumptions. Summed up, it was based on an exclusive, Us versus Them mentality. There is a short-sighted tribal enmity just for the sake of whatever “it” is; with no real direction or purpose, a conflict for the ‘sake of’. There were many incidents of inter gang and inter fraternity warfare then; and as it was all over the news, some schools and universities (our own included) resorted to banning them altogether.
compete constructively to the benefit of society as a whole, some of them resolve their differences with civility and some of them prefer to hurl insults at each other and yes, even beat the crap out of each other.
I cite it because it is perhaps the most basic form of inter group conflict. Tribal warfare has been embedded in our human history since the beginning of time. The human is a social being after all, he/she seeks a sort of communal fulfilment, as seen in the many groups and institutions we are a part of. Many of those groups and institutions coexist peacefully, many of them
These are conflicts of political, such as they are. But what of the one less obvious and visible, but no less important, the conflict of identity and culture?
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That being said, frat and gang warfare has simmered down in the past few years. Their conflicts have become less pronounced in media altogether. However, the Philippines has already been plagued by much bigger conflicts. Let us not forget that our government is fighting a two front war, one against the new people’s army, the other against armed Islamic groups. One merely has to look at our circus-like politics to see the range of the elected’s concern and thinking, and the nature of the words being tossed around.
In the landscape of said culture conflict going on in the collective psyche of our country, all battles are fought to win hearts and
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minds. On the level, there is the dilemma between innovation and tradition, of which we as Filipinos collectively struggle with; we are divided by our predispositions (and of course, ‘feelings’) towards certain beliefs, ideas and ideals. This divisiveness should come as no surprise as our islands themselves are melting pots of diversity. Those who argue for a more dogmatic ideological homogeny-ism would do well to remember that, I think. The Philippines is an archipelago after all. But how do these “feelings“come in, and why the emphasis? Well, our country has recently garnered distinction, though not the kind we generally want. According to a study lead by Gallup*, we are by far, the most emotional people in the world. The almost immediate reaction, and yes, outrage that this caused, ironically only reinforced the notion. One notable tweet (though questionable in original intent) was: “HOW DARE THEY SAY WE CANNOT CONTROL OUR FEELINGS, I’LL KILL EM ALL!!!!11111” This being mentioned, we shouldn’t be surprised then by the dynamics between social groups in the Philippines (and yes, their politics). More often than not it is the heart that holds sway, not the mind. Our national and local elections, are based more on the sentiments and “feelings” of the electorate, not on the issues to be debated and addressed. How easily does our very own SSC elections turn into an ugly business of word tossing and black propaganda? (As evidenced by the events of last year) In this manner grudges are kept, conflicts are merely repressed not resolved, animosity continues, hate breeds, and progress is impeded. The truth of it is that our country is still being plagued by the same problems, the same issues. The dysfunctions of our society and our institutions remain prevalent 30 years on. Progress comes at a heavy price here in the nation, for every two steps forward, there is a one step back. With our institutions generally attached to their emotions, much emphasis then is placed on the trivial and the banal. You could say that we as a people are, when considering problems and issues are short sighted drama queens. Loyalty supersedes reason, anger supersedes logic. A desire to satisfy the emotions thus comes between everything else. The need to return offence to those who offended is paramount. Our overwhelming emoness has led us to become the easiest people to offend, provoke and manipulate.
regressed? Or is this how it has always been? Dogmatism thus rears its ugly head, trapping us in a perpetual, senseless banter. Then comes the rise of the internet and the accessibility of multimedia. The little comments passed around in the kitchen and in the bathroom can now be published and posted on the net for all to see. I recall reading a web comic strip illustrating this phenomenon in a simple formula. Normal Person + Anonymity + Audience = Dickwad** (also known as the greater internet dickwad theory, many thanks penny arcade!). This jump in technology, as beneficial it is to the growing dialogue of ideas in the country and the world at large, has empowered said dickwads. It bears repetition then, two steps forward, and one step back. That of course is the extreme, to give a little more warmth to this bleak notion. There have been people on both sides of these conflicts (the relevant and important ones) who simply want to live and let live; a growing few who see these issues above the people who associate with them. Yes, one must take a stand for whatever he or she feels is right, but it should never deter one’s human capacity, one’s capacity for compassion and empathy. Our culture is divisive, the issues and problems we face even more so. This diversity of ideas and beliefs need not be a hindrance to our society, but the means to alleviate them. The harsher conflicts between our social groups , mired and perpetuated as they are by fear and misunderstanding, need not perpetuate. There is a hope, maybe we all just need to calm the hell down and look around.
IMPORTANT AS THE EXERCISING OF OUR FREEDOM OF SPEECH IS, WE SHOULD NOT FORGET OUR OFT IGNORED DUTY TO LISTEN. For maybe when us as Filipinos can start working through and with our differences in opinion, religion, orientation, race, heritage and etc we can get to something truly constructive for the good of our fellows. Maybe then, we see what we are truly capable of. TC
Look at the wars being fought all around the country, both the ones involving words and the ones involving fists and guns. With such dedication and loyalty to their respective collectives and aversion to compromise. What sets them apart from petty tribalism aside from their names and functions? Have they *http://www.gallup.com/poll/158882/singapore-ranks-least-emotional-country-world.aspx **http://www.penny-arcade.com/comic/2004/03/19
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These films are separated in the order of “easiness”, made comparison to our ever fabulous classes.
A list of film suggestions from an uncultured teen who just really enjoys watching films. If you have time from your labourous majors and/or minors, then watch a film or two or thirty-six. Films are great, sentiments are forced upon you, either you cry, scream, laugh or plainly confused. Films are the “heart of the mind and art of the soul”. (Extra points if you know where this line comes from)
Ki-Jeong “Jenny” Shim
FILM BUFF SYLLABUS
FILM
Black Dynamite dir. Scott Sanders
Napoleon Dynamite dir. Jared Hess
Mean Girls dir. Mark Waters
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off dir. John Hughes
Paris Je T’aime dir. Oliver Assayas
Royal Tenenbaums dir. Wes Anderson
Moonrise Kingdom dir. Wes Anderson
Harold Maude dir. Hal Ashby
Clockwork Orange dir. Stanley Kubrick
The Shining dir. Stanley Kubrick
The Texas Massacre dir. Tobe Hopper
Carrie dir. Brian De Palma
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring... dir. Kim Ki Duk
Battle Royale dir. Kinji Fukasaku
La Pianiste dir. Michael Haneke
Thirst dir. Park Chan Wook
Level 1 If it were a class, then these films would be that one class you don’t even try, because you know you’ll pass. Spirited Away dir. Hayao Miyazaki
Shaun of the Dead dir. Edgar Wright
Little Miss Sunshine dir. Jonathan Dayton
My Neighbor Totoro dir. Hayao Miyazaki
Ghost World dir. Terry Zwigoff
Level 2 One of those classes you enjoy just because. Doesn’t require much brain juice, just some effort and time. Pulp Ficition dir. Quentin Tarantino
This Is England dir. Shane Meadows
What’s Eating Glibert Grape dir. Lasse Hallström
Leon dir. Luc Besson
Django Unchained dir. Quentin Tarantino
Level 3 Ever had a “terror” for a teacher? Blood, tears, psychos, mayhem and some soap. Girl, Interrupted dir. James Mangold
Fight Club dir. David Fincher
American Psycho dir. Mary Harron
American History X dir. Tony Kaye
The Silence of the Lambs
dir. Jonathan Demme
Level 4 Your absurd brain warping thesis. Or that one class you keep failing. Dogtooth dir. Yorgos Lanthimos
Amour dir. Michael Haneke
Pieta dir. Kim Ki Duk
The White Ribbon dir. Michael Haneke
Holy Mountain dir. Alejandro Jodorowsky
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VOTING RESPONSIBLY A Citizen’s Duty to Democracy CHRISTIE MARIE ALGA Illustration by DYLAN BRIONES
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The system of governance in the Philippines is labeled as democratic. Central to democracy are necessary requisites with numerous defining components. Democracy is the system that Filipinos fought so hard for, in which history has a lot to talk about. But it is not only a thing of the past or a system of the present but more importantly it can also be an instrument that’ll help us beget the brand of future that we want to have. Various are the principles of Democracy and the presence of an electoral process is insufficient to sustain it. Yet the right to suffrage or the so called right of the people to elect one’s representatives and to be able to influence the political direction of one’s government is an indispensable political foundation of Democracy. It is because in democracy, conduct of free, fair and regular election is distinctive and fundamental an element. Without election, citizens, who are also other elements of democracy can in no way find the possibility of expressing their will to change leaders, protect their rights and influence the course of the country. Elections are the ongoing representation of the consent of the governed. Along with this right is the public duty to duly participate. The key role of citizens in a democracy is to participate in various and several political processes. And casting one’s vote during elections is one of the most important. Democracy has been generally defined as a government by the people, for the people and of the people. Reality in the Philippines however does not quite live to this definition. In the country, most citizens have roughly moved from indecision to apathy. Or worse, the people’s inalienable right to suffrage has been an accessory to corrupt and interest driven motives. Vote buying and selling, vote shaving and padding have become machineries for winning national and local elections. Election has been used as a mockery to the concept of Democracy. The country’s
political system is indeed a complex landscape: thwarted roles of political parties, apathy among the people, personality-oriented and patron-client relations, corruption and poverty, strong role of money and media, violations of human rights, failure to correct the defective legal system and several other challenges are facing the institutionalized regular and competitive elections. There has also been the growing cynicism concerning the government. This is mainly because the country along with its people is experiencing economic instability, neglect of education, insufficient health care, dependency, unequal representation, crime and violence and banditry and more and more difficulties. Too many things have happened in the country’s political setting that led to the majority of Filipinos’ distrust to the system. However let us all become conscious that these problems we rant about can be rooted from the election process- the people’s voting culture per se. They are social puzzles that riddled the country’s course for a long time already. The Philippines has suffered enough because of irresponsible voters that have become the milking cow of the few who are fuelled by vested interest and selfish motives. These are problems that subvert the fulfillment of genuine democracy. With all these challenges, one can really question the proper functioning of democratic system in the Philippines. The solution rests upon the very essence of democracy—freedom with responsibility, accountability, prudence, and with discipline. As the saying goes, the price of freedom and true democracy is eternal vigilance. Most importantly, we have to keep in mind that the electoral process we have, equates the citizens’ democratic duty. It is our duty to select the right leaders, use the system to hold those leaders accountable and also hold ourselves accountable for the leaders
we chose through the democratic system. Fundamentally, Filipino voters must exercise the utmost diligence in honing their conscience and judgment as they exercise their right to suffrage all throughout the election process. All the more, we should make ourselves responsible voters. Other countries say that we have the most vibrant and dynamic democracy in Asia and Filipinos are democracy-loving people. Thus we have to step forward and share the burden of establishing a true democratic society. Responsible voters don’t simply sit and ink the ballot. They vigilantly watch the election process and willingly consolidate efforts designed for a clean and honest election. Responsible voters definitely don’t sell their rights to vote. They guard it because they know they are priceless. Responsible voters, among whom everyone should count himself, don’t just sleep and wait. Responsible voters stay awake and they are always conscious of protecting democracy. Elections may just be one of the many essential principles and is not the whole point of democracy. But we have to take into consideration that it is during elections, that as citizens, we can do our part in sustaining the democratic system by being responsible citizens and vigilantes of freedom. Our country calls for responsible voters. Yes, we belong to the sector of ordinary and young citizens with no claim to political savvy in terms of responsible voting, but we have to exercise our very right to suffrage. It is through this simple but significant and noteworthy initiative that we can look forward to experiencing a better government that is capable of elevating millions of Filipino lives; an administration that is governed by principle-centered and developmentoriented individuals; a real government by the people, for the people and of the people. TC
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ORDER
Reexamining Political Dynasties in Contemporary Philippine Politics MARLOUIZE VILLANUEVA
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IMAGE: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Full_Moon_Luc_Viatour.jpg
AN ECLIPSE OF THE OLD
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Perhaps by now, our TV sets, radios, Facebook accounts, and other means of mass communication have been littered with visual or audio images of our beloved politicians hoping to regain the trust of the electorate come this Election Day. Making a rapid run through the profile of these politicos, we can identify that most of them are affiliated, by blood or by marriage, to political dynasties. By common experience, we can say that the dominance of political dynasties in the Philippines remain to be an established institution in Philippine politics. As magnified by Alfred McCoy (1999) in his book An Anarchy of Families: State and Family in the Philippines, political dynasties can be viewed as “both object and subject of history, shaping and being shaped by the process of change”. He further then describes the Filipino family as institutions who supply what the State and the Church cannot give. In both national and local levels, contests of power are played primarily by political dynasties. This leads to the emergence of patronclient relationships across provinces and localities that remains to be pervasive and impregnable. Joel Migdal’s characterization of Third World having strong societies and weak states clearly solidifies this institutional role of dynasties in Philippine politics. However, I have observed that political strongmen are now aging and subsequently are passing down their reins to their anointed successors, most are the strongmen’s sons/ daughters. Consequentially, those strongmen who are not able to find their successors in their respective dynasties are doomed to die a political death, only their names are to be perpetuated in the books of history. Let us take into consideration our very
own province, Cebu. The emerging Garcia dynasty strengthens with its tie-up with the Frascos of Lilioan. The persisting conflict within the Durano clan results to their continuing exposure to the Cebuanos, ensuring their “visibility” to the common tao. The slow precipitation of the Osmeñas, Cuencos and Abineses can be attributed to the failure of the clans to identify their respective heirs to their political thrones, or their inability to “secure” the mandate of the electorate. The fall of political strongmen gives rise to renewed hopes of reshaping the Philippine political landscape. Stakes are now placed to the “new generation of Philippine politicians” in the pursuit of making Philippine politics more democratic. However, these renewed hopes are again placed at the tip of the cliff with disillusion it its deep belly. Political protégés show resilience in the aim of siphoning the power of dynasties. The constitutional provision on the prohibition of political dynasties remain to be an elusive policy as there remains no enabling law to support such policy. Why? Despite the “enlightened” Senate’s aim of pursuing such policy, the dynastypacked House of Representatives have showed no intention of removing their secured lifeline to power. Despite this conundrum of finding ways to democratize Philippine politics with the “elimination” or at least crippling the powers of political dynasties, another question perhaps needs to be revisited: Why political dynasties remain powerful in the first place? In every instance of political change in the Philippines, political dynasties have always played a vital role in making these changes possible.
From the role of the local ilustrados and principalias during the Philippine revolution to the concoction of families taking part during the EDSA revolutions, political dynasties remain to be key players in instigating political change in Philippine history. However, despite the “advances” of political institutions in the Philippines, economic conditions remain to be the same: oligarchic, extractive, and oppressive. The existence of political dynasties continues to hamper social mobility and economic development especially in the rural areas where dynasties are deeply entrenched and embedded in parochial societies. Perhaps, the adage “Old wine skins burst if filled with new wine” plays in contemporary Philippine politics. The continuous reverence or disgust on political dynasties being placed in the Philippine political dining table is a manifestation that elite families continue to dominate the Philippine political landscape. The pervading power of political families is a reflection that the fetter to democratization is the existing feudal economic order of the Philippines. Despite the apparent facade of industrialization, the dyadic patron-client relationships or even the unidirectional bossism remains to permeate in social relations, shape shifting to meet contextual needs. Perhaps, a way for us to reclaim the promise of democracy is to emancipate the electorate, especially the poor, from the shackles that hinder them to practice their right to discern who to choose come elections: provide them their basic necessities and give them equal opportunities to work and leisure. Is there an eclipse of an old order in contemporary Philippine politics? I doubt. Will there be? I think. TC
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Defending DEFENSOR Christie Mae Alga
“The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.” The aforementioned provision can be found in Section 26 of Article II Declaration of Principles and State Policies, 1987 Philippine Constitution. The framers of the fundamental law of the land have long felt that political dynasties are among the roots of misfortune and hardships of the country and the people. Hence they saw the need to enshrine the anti-political dynasty mandate in the Constitution. But what really is political dynasty? People in academe, political analysts to the advocates of anti-political dynasty themselves have plentiful definition of the term. Political
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dynasties have usually been authored as traditional politicians or “trapos”, “scions” or “political kingpins” that monopolize public service and utilize it for their private gains. These dynasties are also branded as the country’s economic elites who continue to distort the essence of democracy as they cause the unaccountable patron-client democracy and the root of the evils in the political system. Thus the country continues to suffer a hegemony of feudal politics. Dictionary defines the term “dynasty” as succession of rulers from the same family line; or a family or group that maintains power for several generations. According to University of the Philippines’ professor Dr. Jose Abueva of Political Science and Public Administration, political dynasty is the repeated election of close relatives with the same surname to offices in government where they enjoy a monopoly of political power to the disadvantage of rival leaders and they use their wealth to gain access to public resources to favor themselves. Another characterization of political dynasty by Professor of Economics
Ronald U. Mendoza of AIM, is that it signals a growing inequality in access to powers and political influence which can affect the persistence and prevalence of social and economic divides. An independent senatorial candidate in the name of Ricardo Penson, launched a crusade against political dynasties. He believes that dynasties are involved in unprincipled party switching or turncoatism for convenience and opportunitism. This, for him, can institutionalize a system that grossly favors the influential and powerful political clans. Definitions of political dynasty are various and they converge on the idea that the country would be better off without them. Despite the numerous provided definitions of the term political dynasty, it is a common fact in the country that up to now, there’s an absence of a law that gives a clearly defined meaning of such term. Using the available definitions from different analysts, political dynasties have been a problem that is fuelling heated debates throughout the political landscape of Filipino voters.
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Studies involving political dynasties and political families in the country revealed that more than 60% of our legislators are members of political clans themselves. There are an estimated 250 political families nationwide, with at least one in every province, occupying positions in all levels of the bureaucracy, according to the Center for People Empowerment in Governance. With this overwhelming figure, it can be noted that political dynasties are existent, even with its apparent prohibition in the Constitution. A study made by Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) traced the emergence of dynasties in the Philippines to the introduction by the Americans of electoral politics in the early 20th century. Political dynasties were long established in the Philippine history and continue to exist in the present times. There is a clear manifestation of oligarchy in the Philippines in the existence of these political dynasties through time. Past to present records show that political dynasties deprived and continue to deprive less privileged individuals; among whom are the underrepresented sectors and the marginalized segments of the society. In different parts of the country, national and local election system have been the mechanisms for the dynasties to push their family members to pursue political careers. They wield authority to their respective communities, provinces, among their constituencies. This system then leads to an increased the number of family members becoming peddlers of undue patronage and penchant of corruption. Those are the perks experienced by the family members belonging to political clans. With fame and popularity, they enjoy overwhelming power and influence plus the exposure to favors and confidence in winning elections above anyone else. With this, we cannot expect a leveled political field. The face of the national and local governments changed to an even more negative image where creating political dynasties has become more of a competitive advantage than of a sincere public service. Include in the list the mechanisms that these families hold on to: their influential factors of money, machinery, media, alliances and among other dirty tactics to stay in power. The very reason why we see our dear public
officials more in tv’s and movies than in actual public works and services. There’s not much of a need for proof to this. Reality and the actual happenings we see each and every day are the evidence. It’s just so ironic to say that we are living in a democratic country, even the political families brag about this. But in reality and in fact, we have been governed by a selected few who have changed our country with a lot of resources to a shrinking nation that it is today. Why do these corrupt and greedy political dynasties continue to flourish and dominate the country’s political system when they have already been prohibited by the Constitution? It is mainly because there is no law that defines what constitutes a political dynasty and it is here where the problem lies. In the absence of an implementing law banning political dynasties, how can we identify political dynasties? How can a political dynasty be prevented or atleast minimized? How then can we achieve a leveled political field?
families. The socio-economic and political inequities prevalent in Philippine society limit public office to members of ruling families. In many instances, voters, for convenience and out of cultural mindset look up to these ruling families as dispensers of favours, and thus elect relatives of these politically dominant families. This bill was filed by Sen. Miriam DefensorSantiago on January 24, 2011. It was selfexplanatory and does not need an above average I.Q to be understood. Ahead of this were other bills on the same topic filed by then senator Alfredo Lim in 2004 (SB-1317), Senator Panfilo Lacson in 2007 (SB-1468), and Rep. Teddy Casino (House Bill-2493) also in 2007. Unfortunately, even though bills have been filed since the 8th Congress to have a law to stop the establishment of political dynasties, the Congress has failed to pass such a law. The list revealed that Anti-political Dynasty law is real hard to be passed. Why? The Congress has been the principal playground of the political dynasties.
Certainly, the solution can start within every Filipino voter. It is through political maturity on the part of the electorate and the strengthening of platforms and principles of the political parties. But this can definitely be established through respecting and following the provision of the Constitution. This calls for a law that will strictly define political dynasties and prevent them in thwarting the essence of democracy in the eyes of their blinded supporters.
There is the increasing clamor for the Anti Political Dynasty Bill and the groups of people urge Congress to pass an enabling law to ban political dynasty. Until and unless a corrective and preventive measure like the anti-political dynasty law could be passed and implemented, can the country feel the essence of the Constitution provision. A crusade Called Krusada Kontra Dynasty or Kontra launched by Penson is now eyeing for the support of the media, youth and the Church.
Yes I agree, there are few exceptions to this political-dynasties-gone-bad observable fact. But they are not enough to set straight the long-standing crooked reality that the trapos, the scions and the political kingpins have been established for one’s own and personal lucrative business.
We have to end political monopoly to experience a society with meaningful social equity.
The explanatory note from Senate Bill2649: Anti-Political Dynasty Act of the Constitution, Article II, Section 26 provides the gist, as to why is it necessary, beneficial and why do people clamor for a law that can ban political dynasties: To give force and effect to this provision, the playing field of the political arena should belevelled and opened to persons who are equally qualified to aspire on even terms with those from ruling politically dominant
And this would be possible through the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill. Definitely it’s about time to give the bill a chance and get freed from the grip of the political families controlling the country. If not, then these dynasties will forever persist on dominating the nation, weakening democracy and making a mockery of the constitutionTC
51 TODAY’S CAROLINIAN MAR 2013
POLITICS
Glossary of Nonsexist Words FIRST PUBLISHED MARCH 1995, VOL. 12, NO. 2
Adulteress, adulterer Assemblyman, assemblyperson, assembly member, assembler, assembly worker Bachelor’s degree, undergraduate degree Ballerina, ballet dancer
Beauty queen, eliminate Bedfellow, partner, associate, mate Bitch (woman), eliminate Blind man, blind person, unseeing person, visually impaired individual Boyfriend/girlfriend, friend
Brotherhood, human kinship, camaraderie, community, esprit de corps Brotherly love, goodwill, charity, altruism, bigheartedness Businessman/woman, executive, financier, entrepreneur, industrialist, tycoon, magnate, capitalist, leader, manager, owner, partner, businessperson (also field of business e.g., accountant, broker, marketer, agent, designer, architect, journalist, retailer, banker) Cameraman/girl, camera operator, photographer, video technician Caveman, cave dwellers, cave people, (appropriately defined, e.g., Neanderthal, Cro-Magnon, Australopithecus) Chairman (noun), chair, chairperson, leader, speaker, convener, coordinator, facilitator, head, presiding officer, director Coed, student Congressman/woman, Member of Congress, Representative Countryman, compatriot, citizen, patriot
Craftsmanship, skilled artistry, craft ability, experience, accomplishment, craftship (like authorship), handcraftship Dear sir (salutation), eliminate Deliveryman, delivery person, deliverer Fair sex, eliminate Fatherland, homeland, native land Fellowman, kindred human being Fellowship, foundation, provider, stipend, gift, fund Fiancée/fiancé, betrothed, affianced Fireman, fire fighter Forefather, forebear, ancestor, fore parent, founder Freshman, beginner firstyear student, novice Gentleman, use on par with lady Girlish, youthful Gunman, shooter, killer, assassin, hoodlum, gunner Headmaster, principal Heiress, heir Heroine, hero History of man, history Housewife, homemaker, householder
52 TODAY’S CAROLINIAN MAR 2013
IMAGE: http://i2.listal.com/image/720419/936full-james-dean.jpg
POLITICS
Half of the world’s population is women. However, in this patriarchal society, women remain powerless and are rated second only to men. This is frequently manifested in the terms used and taught in the English language. Stereotyping and subliminal messages are contained in sentence constructions, words used and descriptions attached to male and female sexes. We are aiming for a society where men and women are treated alike–with no distinctions. We want this expressed in the words we use in the statements we utter. Today’s CAROLINIAN seeks to contribute to the realization of every Filipino woman’s dream of achieving equality with men. In fact, it has recently approved and adopted a policy on the use of nonsexist terms to propagate a gender-fair environment in the Carolinian community. Below is an excerpt of the alternative terms adopted so that all may be guided and made aware when and where sexist terms are used. (Source: The Elements of Nonsexist Usage, A Guide to Inclusive Spoken and Written English, Val Dumond)
Jack-of-all-trade, handy person, handy worker Just like a woman, eliminate King-size, large, huge Lady, (as in: lady judge, lady doctor, lady chef, etc.) eliminate Landlord/lady, owner, manager Layman, lay person Leading man/lady, leading actor Madam, eliminate Madman, lunatic, maniac’ Maid, house worker, servant, attendant, domestic Maiden, untried, first, early, single Mailman, postal carrier, mail carrier, letter carrier Mama’s boy, spoiled child Manhandle, mishandle, maltreat Manhole, utility hole, maintenance hatch, sewer Manhunt, search, investigation Mankind, humankind, humanity, people Manpower, labor, work crew, staff, personnel Man-to-man, face-to-face, one-on-one, person-toperson Master, expert, specialist: to
achieve excellence Master key, skeleton key, passkey Mastermind, leader, intelligent planner, creator Masterpiece, great work of art Master’s degree, graduatelevel degree Middleman, negotiator, go-between, liaison, intermediary, contact person Miss, Ms. Newsboy, news deliverer, news carrier No man’s land, unowned or uninhabited land, the wildee Old lady, eliminate Old maid, single woman Ombudsman, researcher, mediator Patrolman, patrol or police officer, guard Peeping Tom, voyeur, snoop, eavesdropper Penmanship, handwriting, script, hand, calligraphy Playboy/girl, pleasure seeker, reveler, merrymaker Prehistoric man, prehistoric people, humanlike, primate, Stone (Ice, Bronze, Iron) Age people; the Neanderthals, the CroMagnons, etc Pressman, press operator,
printer, newspaper person Queenly, dignified, regal, noble Reman, restaff Saleslady/man, clerk, sales agent, representative Weaker sex, eliminate Well done, for a woman, well done Wifely, explain; should not be used to mean obedient, faithful and complaint Woman’s work, work Working mother, worker,
employed person, laborer Workmanship, expertise, skill Young man, youth, teenager
53 IMAGE: http://blog.finnfemme.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/woman.jpg
TODAY’S CAROLINIAN MAR 2013
PARTING SHOT
is our passport to the
future
for tomorrow belongs to the
EDUCATION
Malcolm X Photograph by
GERARD THEODORE ALCUIZAR
PEOPLE
WHO PREPARE FOR IT TODAY.
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When the mass chooses the colourful and joyful but pointless rather the provocative and wretched but essential, is it time for us to applaud, or to be cheerful? Media, religion, fashion, culture, what are these but an excuse for us to look elsewhere from the painful, down-right depressing stuff that is? The youth, are we really progressing or are we just degenerating? It is but a sad truth that we’d all rather sit on our couches and enjoy the leisure of television, the mind boggling, brain boiling– box of lies. Flashing, colourful, happy thoughts, happy thoughts. Perhaps we’ve become too friendly with Peter Pan. The tendency of the youth has become like bugs, to swarm to sugary goodness and sway away from the bitter crap. If the people who fought for our freedom saw us, I wonder, would they weep or would they cheer. Have we squandered their sacrifice? We’ve become accustomed to a sort of comfort, in turn becoming plebeians. One can see that we’ve already begun to reject the nuisance of inquiry, as the deterioration of the importance of the humanities becomes more obvious. What happens now when we precious teens, the hopeful futures, would rather have the fun and pointless above all? Woe is the social rejects, the degenerate teens, the schizophrenics, the weirdos, the anti-Heathers, the outcasts, the horse-huggers– for it is they who, in the least, eject from the status quo. Those who get laughed at– taunted, for being peculiar, woe is they. How sad.
KI-JEONG “JENNY” SHIM
The Progressive Student Publication of the University of San Carlos
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