Today's CAROLINIAN - March 2016 Issue by Today's CAROLINIAN

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

EDITORIAL BOARD Editor-in-Chief Karl Benedict Sayson Associate Editor (Internal Affairs) Miko Paolo Mangubat Associate Editor (External Affairs) Christabelle Escudero Managing Editor for Administration Katrina Jaiun Roa Head of Writing Department Cesar Carlos Heyrosa Deputy Senior Correspondent Gifthir Lemuel Elmido News Editor Paolo Perez Features Editor Kerstein Kylle Despi Literary Editor Julienne Anjela Termoso Art Director Karl Adrian C. Aguro

The Progressive Student Publication of the University of San Carlos

UNIVERSITY OF SAN CARLOS Cebu City, Cebu Philippines 6000 VOLUME XXVI No. 8 MARCH 2016

EDITORIAL STAFF Operations FINANCE OFFICER Geralden Morre STAFF SECRETARY Paolo Louis Manghihilot ONLINE CORRESPONDENT Xavier Luke Pulmones WEB ADMINISTRATOR Josemaria Marcelo Ouano III WEB DEVELOPERS Julius John Puno, Francis Alec Yap, Daniel Hans Tan DIRECTOR FOR CIRCULATION AND STRATEGIC DEVELOPMENT Gabriel Ramon Arcenas Writing Department NEWS BUREAU WRITERS Miriam Burlaos, Jet Mangubat, Sofia Isabel Tajos, Ynaro San Juan, Zarah Majam, Bryant Gonzales, Theresa Kate Palompon, Kyn Noel Pestano, Mikhailah Ranada, Laura Posadas Art Department LAYOUT SUPERVISOR Cherisse Sia LAYOUT ARTISTS Pamela Urbiztondo, Phoemela de los Santos, Orestes Talingting, Mar Virgil Eway HEAD ILLUSTRATOR Zachary J. Borromeo ILLUSTRATORS Shari Gabrielle Llamis, Geralden Morre, Xene Cabahug, Justine Patrice Bacareza, Ramon Kristoffer Tiu (Contributor) HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Angelo Nico Daroy PHOTOGRAPHERS Francis Garcia, Jose Anthony Bernaldo, Gifthir Lemuel Elmido, June Kirslie Escudero, Czarina Gicale, Shin Moynihan, Jasper Gabriel Ramirez, Shekinah Danong, Carmelle Gacasan, Jessa Marie Pedrola, Christine Suson, Wednesday Dawn Abelgas, Christian Naparota HEAD VIDEOGRAPHER Anthony Bernaldo VIDEOGRAPHERS Czarina Gicale, Francis Garcia, Shin Moynihan, Darryll Rapacon

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

THE COVER Hiding behind their facades are physiques with broken promises, whose optical illusions have blinded our perspectives. An oath for a better future has lured us to false direction, and a series of trying to solve the puzzles of questionable solutions. Where are we going now? Will we continue to climb the steps that lead us to prosperity, or open our eyes to a clearer perspective of what false hope is.

It’s an endless loop, figuring out if progression is inevitable. It will depend on your perspective, figure it out yourself. Words by Katrina Jaiun Roa Cover Illustration by Zachary Borromeo Art Direction by Karl Adrian Aguro

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. © 2016. TODAY’S CAROLINIAN All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in 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.

March 10, 2016 SSC Elections

May 9, 2016

National Elections

Vote.

III

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

Contents. IV

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

EDITOR’S NOTE

Illustration by Shari Llamis

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

In every academic year, it is the utmost aspiration of Today’s Carolinian to successfully publish two magazines. Since the last academic year, we distributed monthly newspapers, which we continue to pursue this year, plus the December literary portfolio with the theme: horror. Last semester, we released our first of two magazines with the theme: uncertainty. It was the first time that the publication surpassed the 80-page mark. It was done so to make way for more ideas and more interaction. Here we are with the second of two magazines which we call: the election primer.

This issue is as timely as ever, as we will be having two distinct elections to be featured in this primer: first is the SSC Elections and the other one, the Philippine National Elections, both in which we, as youth, should embrace our bigger roles inside the campus all the same our roles as citizens of this nation. Let us be the youth our forefathers dreamt of, better yet, let us be better than those dreams. We always hear stories that the world is no longer the same, that it has gone worse, that it is because of the failed responsibility our generation has made. Here’s to change. Here’s to the underdogs of society. Here’s to the renegades of false hopes.

Karl Benedict Sayson Editor-in-Chief

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

National Elections

Part

One. 5

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

OPINION

ELECTIONS 2016: A GAME CHANGER Miko Paolo Mangubat Illustration by Shari Llamis

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

OPINION

“I am Joe’s complete lack of surprise. ”

“I am Joe’s smirking revenge.”

For the past two decades, we have not been, in any way, a livable country for the aliens — moreover, for our own people. Should this be surprising? High taxes for insurmountable amount of hard-earned salary in payment for very cheap labor, centralized mentality that perpetuates uncontrollable urban sprawl in spite of the lack of land area and low employment rate, and sky-rocketing mortality rates based from wrong concepts of alleviation from poverty and dogma — are only some of the awful but honest reasons why this place is considered a “country of slaves”. What an unpleasant way to start with.

This would have started with a discourse of the repulsive politicking amongst the presidential candidates and their disgusting promises and platforms, but with something like that, none would have gone this far in this article.

“I am Joe’s boiling point.” We strive very hard studying in this university as if such validation helps in getting a job after getting a diploma and getting a part in a competitive heartless community — a community roughly classified by power and fortune, binding the youth to work their asses off to pay rent and represent themselves with worldly possessions; that as if illiteracy and having nothing are crimes of consequence embellished in very young minds when a hardly understood educational system is not strictly followed. Where was all that “dowhat-you-love” crap? It seems nowhere in sight.

Do not get this wrong. There is nothing more overwhelming than seeing a surfeit of sentiments and opinions on every gimmick a candidate begins. It does get out of hand sometimes, but it’s all worth the time typing our concerns out, violent or not. It goes to show that we got the gist of deciding our own level of involvement on critical matters, such as politics. As we come near May 2016 Elections, politics in Philippine social media is hyped the most because of interaction among the users comprised mostly of people of the age of 18 to 35, generations that belong to Generations Y and Z, who are social media savvy. In an interview by CNN Philippines with the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Chairman Andres Bautista, he said that almost 50 percent of the newly registered voters, as of November 6, 2015, are coming from the younger generations. COMELEC Education and Information Department Director James Jimenez also added that the social media might be a game changer for this year’s presidential elections.

“I am Joe’s cold sweat.” Guess that was the third hostage-taking scenario that happened in the locality for a short period of time for just this year. It’s quite striking sometimes, though; the things go on inside the mind of that desperate guy holding an ice pick with shaking hands, almost lunging it to his victim’s jugular yet still relying on prehistoric survival instict to know what his next move would be. Was it for drugs? Money? Anger? Vengeance? We might never know which, but if it’s not insanity, it must be between life and death. All these crimes and subtle grievances are still relevant of whatever nature. More so, everyone snaps. It’s just that not all snaps are as sound as the middle and index finger tapping. “I am Joe’s broken heart.” Everyone already has their fair share of hours-long agony in the traffic on our way to school that we just can’t help but seek sympathy through social media by cursing the government for its inadequacy and these almost-elections sudden sprouts of road “improvements”, though leaving such projects would still also mean bashing on the authorities’ for incompetence and negligence of duty. Isn’t it ironic to think that we’re fed up with so many nuisances in this third-world country yet we think it should be as much as perfect for our own consumption? Graft and corruption aside, doesn’t it seem just fair to accept that we’re a big part of the problem too? We’re the Millennials, so it does not quite matter to us anyway because we are too narcissistic for this era.

The World Wide Web became an avenue for the youth to express their sentiments — critically, hilariously and rudely — on President Aquino’s administration. PNoy’s failures and excesses created numerous image macros that circulated and stirred up opinions among internet users. All this hype should not be limited to social media. Complaining almost all the time is not the right attitude to go if we are after change. In order to bring about change in this country, as cliché as this may sound, it has to start within us. Illiteracy, poverty, corruption, crime, and all these problems we complain about so much can only be solved by willingly following true leaders with true intentions. Hence, studying and weighing well whom to vote for is as crucial as any exam we’re about to take. This year’s election is, of no doubt, one of the most vital of this generation because this will define how social media affects the voter turnout. In turn, its results will dictate the economic and technological growth of our country in the coming years. Finally, with the recurring implementation of K-12 curriculum to the undergraduate schools and recent dispute with China, we cannot expect an easy way through after whatever elections. Change is a function of time, so we need to be patient and cooperative enough in order to observe notable change. The makings of a wise man comes from his wise choices. TC Source: http://cnnphilippines.com/news/2015/11/06/Comelec54.6M-voters-sign-up-for-2016-polls.html

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

DIFFERENT PLATFORMS, ONE GOAL: The 2016 Presidential Candidates Primer Katrina Jaiun Roa

Illustration by Zachary Borromeo

The national elections, it is the season for future leaders to prove their citizens that they have the potential to make a change in a country that is experiencing various problems. The national elections will happen on May 9, 2016 and announce the 16th president of the Philippines once elections are done. Presidential campaigning will run for three months where their platforms for the social, political and economic sector for the future of the country are voiced out.

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

Vice-President Jejomar Binay

Senator Mar Roxas

Representing the United Nationalist Alliance party, he announced his intent to run for president last September 2011, During the party’s launching last July 2015 at Makati, Binay finally announced that he is indeed vying for presidency.

Representing the Liberal Party, he announced running for president last July 31, 2015. In order to focus on his presidential campaign, he resigned as Secretary of the Department of Interior and Local Government on August 2015. President Benigno stated that he wanted Roxas as his successor, citing the latter’s commitment in sustaining policies that the current Ahquino Administration has done. Roxas aims to continue to refine the economic, social and political policies implemented by President Aquino and continue the Daang Matuwid for the next six years.

Binay’s platform in the economic sector includes the establishment of a more effective supervision of priority programs, the reformation of the taxation system, administering lower income, personal and corporate taxes, amending the Build-Operate-Transfer Law, strengthening the agriculture and manufacturing industries, speeding up infrastructure development, and implementing the passage of the Fiscal Incentives Rationalization Act and Right-Of-Way Act. As a presidential candidate, Binay aims to stimulate growth of individual private enterprises, open the country to foreign investors, dedicate more funds for small businesses, improve the standards of the educational system, offer citizens human rights and an honest and systematic service, balance of power distribution in the social, economic and political sectors, offer promotion of good relationships with governments of foreign countries, to include the country in the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and finally to eliminate corruption in the government. In a country that is known for corruption, it also houses corrupt leaders, Binay is not a fugitive of such as he has been a focus of multiple corruption allegations and controversies in the country; the common cases being nepotism amongst close colleagues and family members and incompetent usage of funds, which can cause to bring back the pork barrel system if he wins elections. Binay stated that the accusations he faces encourages him to work harder. Despite the accusations he has committed, Binay tops the presidential candidate survey results occasionally. Senator Grace Poe Running as an independent candidate, she announced running for president at the University of Diliman last September 16, 2015 by saying “I am Grace Poe, a Filipino, a daughter, wife and mother, and with God’s grace, I offer myself for the country’s highest calling as your president.” Since 2013, Poe had an outstanding performance in the Senate. She has sponsored five bills, during the first session of the 16th Congress -- three of her sponsored bills were approved by Senate. She passed the Senate of the People’s Freedom of Information, spearheaded hearings on MRT and LRT issues, and lead the nationwide 2015 Budget Law for lunch feeding programs for students attending public schools as part of her Sustansya para sa Batang Pilipino senate bill. During the course of her campaign, two temporary restraining orders were filed by COMELEC for questions regarding her citizenship and residency requirment, but Poe still continues her presidential campaig with running mate, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero.

Roxas’ platforms in the economic sector include the creation of more domestic jobs in order to make working abroad not a necessity, the discouragement of creating conditions brought by the private sector and the government which can lead to competition among private businesses, consideration of problems arising in the rural economic sector, guarantee of welfare and protection for citizens opting to become Overseas Filipino Workers, more efficient partnerships with the private sector in terms of executing laws relating to land and ownership, a Bottom-Up Budgeting Program for the rural community, and the expansion of the anti-poverty program initiated by the Aquino Administration. His platforms in the social sector include the improvement on disaster risk and reduction management, passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law that would eventually resolve the disputes occurring in Mindanao, and the further implementation of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program which provides conditional cash incentives, health and education benefits to the poor. His main platform in the political sector is to create an efficient government by implementing laws to eliminate corruption. With the tasks Roxas has accomplished and with his high hopes for Daang Matuwid, he has met some rough roads. President Aquino has been working and rooting for Roxas, but citizens are hesitant if Roxas can become his own leader without following the footsteps of his predecessor. The way he led the situation after Typhoon Yolanda’s onslaught stirred anger among citizens because he was not hands-on with the plot. He is sometimes being called out for his incapability to handle stress, specifically when it comes to fixing problems in the country. Mayor Rodrigo Duterte Representing the Partido Demokratiko PilipinoLakas ng Bayan political party, he announced running for president last November 30, 2015 at Century Park Hotel in Makati, Manila after repeatedly turning down the offer. His “ironfist” personality and powerful leadership has been praised, his strong personality is what is keeping Davao City the “most peaceful city in the Philippines”. Duterte admits he is not in favor with the country’s form of government and aims to fix it once he is elected as president. Duterte strongly believes in his crime-free advocacy, even if it means taking the lives of criminals which he already claimed to have done.

“If I will kill you, I will kill you”, says Duterte. Compared to the other presidential candidates who have stated their future platforms for the social, economic and political sectors for the country, Duterte’s main platform is to keep the country away from corruption and crime. Although he cannot promise the citizens heaven, he promises the citizens a safe country at the very least. Before the campaign period began, Duterte’s actions stirred the emotions of Filipinos. He accused Roxas for not being a graduate of Economics from Wharton University. In return, Roxas stated that Davao City’s peace and order is all a myth. Duterte cursed Pope Francis in jest last November 2015 because according to him, the Pope’s visit worsened the traffic in the country. Although a number of Filipinos label it as disrespectful, Duterte is proud whenever he is classified by some people as a womanizer. Duterte has been topping the survey for a few months until the feud with Roxas which caused his results to decline. One question that has kept voters aback is that: Will an “iron-fist” leader be the solution to the problems this country experiences or will it bring another Martial Law? Senator Miriam-Defensor Santiago Representing the People’s Reform Party, she announced running for president again on October 2015 after her book signing for Forever is Stupid 2. This is her third time running, after losing to the 1992 and 1998 presidential elections. The Senator has served all three government branches – executive, judicial, and legislative -- and served three terms in the Philippine Senate, where she served as chair of the constitutional amendments committee and foreign relations committee. Santiago vows to eliminate corruption in the government. She started the investigation on the pork barrel scam and vows to send those who have pocketed their Priority Development Assistance Fund to jail. In the social and economic aspects, she aims to invest on infrastructure, the agricultural sector and government institutions. She has also vowed to, fight against illegal drugs and to, increase the effectiveness of the government by improving the country’s the tax system. She has battled lung cancer on the fourth stage and it did not stop her from running for presidency once again. Unfortunately , she has not been on the top of survey results due to the worry of the citizens with regards to her state of health. With an excellent educational and senate background, will her illness stop the citizens to vote for her? For Senator Santiago, it will make her progress.

These presidential candidates have different platforms that cater to the different sectors of the country, having one goal and that is to serve the Philippines. But are we wise enough to see what’s behind the façade of their promises? It depends on how we see the ability of these presidential candidates. Vote wisely. TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

IT AIN’T JUST A WAITING GAME FOR THE WAITING NAMES:

THE 2016 Vice Presidential Primer Bryant A. Gonzales

Illustration by Xene Cabahug

In every general election, it is the presidency that gets the most candidates and fanfare. In the case of the upcoming May 2016 elections, however, it seems that the race for the vice presidency is almost equal, in terms of interest, to the presidential race. Nearly all but one of the presidential contenders have issues that makes them uncertain to finish their term: A current vice president hounded by graft and corruption charges, a senator whose health is as mysterious as the true identity of a fellow senator in the race, and a mayor who promised to resign if he cannot bring a nationwide peace and order in his first six months. The company alone is a good reason why running for the second highest seat in the country seems a more viable option. As of this writing, there are six who are vying for the vice presidency compared to the five presidential candidates. This is the first in the history of the Philippines elections wherein the race for the head-in-waiting has more candidates than the top spot. From the six candidates, five have running-mates: Alan Peter Cayetano (Rodrigo Duterte), Francis Escudero (Grace Poe), Gringo Honasan (Jejomar Binay), Leni Robredo (Mar Roxas) and Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. (Miriam DefensorSantiago). Only Antonio Trillanes IV has no running mate but will be supporting the candidacy of Grace Poe. There are a lot of points to consider in electing a vice president. After all, he/she is the first in line if a president dies or becomes incapacitated while in office. From the 15 vice presidents we have had since the Republic of Biakna-Bato, three were promoted because of the death of presidents while one was due to a Supreme Court ruling.

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

According to the Office of the Vice President (OVP) of the Philippines website, a vice president has five functions: executive (ensuring laws are faithfully executed), ceremonial (represents the Philippine Government in any official functions), advisory (participates in policy formulation), constituency (consultation with local executives) and administrative (resources of the OVP are reasonably used). If one considers the experience in public service, then Senator Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan should be a top bet. His public service started in the military in 1971, became a People Power hero during the 1986 revolution, and served as a senator for 18 non-consecutive years. In 1995, he made history as he became the first person to win a senate seat as an independent candidate. However, for all his heroism, Honasan’s reputation was tainted when he launched two coups d’etat during the Corazon Aquino Administration and hid from the law after the Oakwood Mutiny in 2003. According to the current vice president and presidential candidate Jejomar Binay, he intends to appoint Gringo Honasan as the “anti-crime czar” in order to bring peace and order that still respects human rights without bending the rule of law. Honasan, however, would prefer to head the Department of National Defence to facilitate the nation’s over-all security. For those who want a federalist style of governance or believe that Metro Manila is not the center of the Philippines, then Senator Alan Peter Cayetano is a strong candidate. Being the running mate of pro-federalism Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, he strongly argues the decentralization of government agencies out of Metro Manila. Although it seems ironic coming from someone who

FEATURE

is from the capital region, he believes that decentralizing will result in a better and more efficient service of the government to its people. If one is expecting that our next president either dies or be impeached and wishes for an eye-popping first lady, then Senator Francis Escudero should be a no-brainer when election day comes — but perhaps those who are shallowminded enough to do that should consider not voting. As for Senator Escudero, he said on a radio interview that any cabinet position that the president appoints him is fine. What is important is that the president he is serving should serve the people with a heart. For those who believe that the Binay Administration will be a corrupt government, Duterte as a ruthless dictator, and one of them is most likely to win, then Senator Antonio Trillanes IV as a vice president is a sound decision. When asked what he intends to do when elected, he said that he wants to be a “fiscalizer” — a term he coins for someone who will be the “opposition in the administration” if he will serve either under the said administration. For those whose heart is with the poor and the masses, then either Senator Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. or Congresswoman Leni Robredo should be on your ballot. Should Sen. Marcos win, he promises to lead a revolution in heart, mind and action by being the Secretary of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). He believes that “the performance of DOLE can be improved when it comes to protecting the work force and overseas workers

and building up small and medium enterprises.” The senator also said there is “a lack of direction and policy and that there must be a bigger investment in infrastructure to grow the economy.” As for Congresswoman Robredo, a cabinet position does not interest her due to bureaucracy. What she intends to do is be appointed as the “anti-poverty czar.” She prefers to travel the provinces and promote rural development than just sit in an office and sign papers. For those aiming for a unified government, where the president and vice president have each other’s loyalty and trust, then consider the running-mate of the president you are planning to vote for. A President is after all, a human who needs someone to assist in policy formulation and to be together in times of distress. Any conflict between the two will only result in useless bickering due to political differences. The most important factor in choosing our vice president is that he or she should never aim for the presidency. It has been a long time since our country experienced a long period of economic growth that was sustained by the next administration. When the next president tries to extend the miracle story of our country, but is hounded by the greedy desire of the vice president that is next in line, then the beautiful story written through sheer hard work and determination might soon be gone just because of the absence of harmony. Vote wisely. TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

Senatorial Candidates’ Credentials: Beneath Their Veil of Promises Mikhailah Rañada, Laura Posadas and Jet Mangubat It is now March, and this month marches us even closer to the national elections. Among the candidates are the different types of people vying for any of the 12 available seats in the upper house of the law-making body of the country — the Senate. As such, it is a constitutional right for us, Filipino citizens who are 18 years old or older on May 9, 2016, to vote for our desired candidates. However, what if the candidates we are planning to vote for turns out to be potentially incapable of fulfilling their roles as senators? Let us not allow ourselves to be blinded by the intricacy of the candidates’ promises. Here is a list of the different political parties, their senatorial slate and their credentials.

PDP-LABAN Illustration by Shari Llamis Partido Demokratiko Pilipinas- Lakas ng Bayan, called by the majority as PDP-Laban, is a political party that resulted from the merger between Partido Demokratiko Pilipinas and Lakas ng Bayan after the assassination of Ninoy Aquino in 1986. The party’s official presidential candidate is the controversial and outspoken Mayor Rodrigo Duterte of Davao. In a news report on CNN Philippines dated Feb. 16, PDP-Laban member Aquilino Pimentel III, announced that the party will support, not endorse, senatorial candidates who believe in Duterte’s advocacy for zero crime and zero corruption. The candidate’s who have joined PDP-Laban rallies are: Samuel D. Pagdilao -Holds a Bachelor of Science in Philippine Military Academy, Baron -Holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Sto. Tomas, graduated cum laude -A Master in Public Administration, obtained from the Manuel L. Quezon University -Has been in different positions in the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine Military Academy -Former director of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) and now Anti-Crime and Terrorism Committee Involvement and Support party-list representative Francis Tolentino -Holds a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy degree from the Ateneo de Manila University -Earned a Bachelor of Laws from the same university’s law school -A Master of Laws from the University of London, specializing in Public International Law -A Master of National Security Administration (MNSA) from the National Defense College of the Philippines; has a Graduate Diploma in Public Administration from the Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, New York University -Former Mayor of Tagaytay; former Metropolitan Development Chairman

Sergio “Serge” R. Osmeña III -Studied at the University of San Carlos, University of the Philippines-Los Baños, Harvard University, and Georgetown University for college -Has held different positions such as assistant president, general manager, director and chairman in different companies -Authored 65 laws -Currently the chairman of the senate committee on Banks, Financial Institutions and Currencies -Initiated the construction of a total of 3,251 infrastructure projects in 79 provinces; 80 percent of which are in the rural areas, 674 farm-to-market roads and 935 school buildings nationwide Francisco Moreno -Former councilor at Manila’s first congressional district for three consecutive terms -Took a course in Local Legislation and Local Finance in the University of the Philippines -Studied public administration in the University of the City of Manila -Currently studying Law at Arellano University -Served as Manila City vice mayor Among the other senatorial candidates that Duterte supports are Martin Romualdez, Manny Pacquiao, Panfilo Lacson, Roman Romulo, Juan Miguel Zubiri and Susan Ople.

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

UNA Illustration by Zachary Borromeo The United Nationalist Alliance or UNA was created as a multi-party electoral alliance, replacing the former United Opposition coalition, for the 2013 midterm elections. On July 1, 2015, Jejomar Binay re-launched UNA as the major opposition party days after he resigned from the Aquino administration. This year, only six are official UNA candidates, the rest being guest candidates. Manny Pacquiao -Enrolled for a college degree in business management at Notre Dame of Dadiangas University in his hometown in General Santos City -Conferred an honorary degree of Doctor of Humanities honoris causa by Southwestern University -An enrolee of the Certificate Course in Development, Legislation and Governance at the Development Academy of the Philippines – Graduate School of Public and Development Management -Elected to the Philippine House of Representatives -Major platform is produce “quality, free, public education” Getulio Napeñas -Graduated from the Philippine Military Academy in 1982 -Attained a Master’s Degree in Business Administration in 1995 and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration in 1998 -Former commander of the Philippine Police Contingent to Kosovo -Served as Chief Directorial Staff and Deputy Director of the Special Armed Forces

Alma Moreno -Was elected as councilor of Paranaque City and re-elected in 2010 First female National President of the Philippine Councillors League Princess Jacel Kiram -Major platform is to separate Sabah from Malaysia -Daughter of the late Sulu Sultan Jamalul Kiram III Allan Montaño -Pro-bono labor lawyer from South Cotabato -Served in the Federation of Free Workers -Campaigns against contractualization and to make productivity incentives mandatory Rey Langit -Graduate of a Bachelor of Science in Commerce degree at the Far Eastern University -Director of the Order of Parliamentarians Confraternity -Broadcast journalist

UNA Guest Candidates: Dick Gordon -Earned a degree of Bachelor of Arts, major in History and Government in 1966 at the Ateneo de Manila University -Pursued a degree of Bachelor of Laws at the University of the Philippines College of Law in the year 1975 -Former Olongapo Mayor -Former senator -Chairman of the Philippine Red Cross Juan Miguel Zubiri -Graduated from the University of the Philippines Los Baños with a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness degree. -Earned a Master of Environment and Natural Resources Management degree from the University of the Philippines Open University. -Served as a representative representing the third district of Bukidnon for three consecutive terms -Former senate majority leader -Author of the Renewable Energy Act and Biofuels Act.

Martin Romualdez -Holds a Bachelor of Arts in Government from Cornell University -Has a Certificate of Special Studies in Administration and Management from Harvard University -Earned his Bachelor of Law degree from the University of the Philippines -President of the Philippine Constitution Association -Representative of Leyte at the House of Representatives Susan Ople -Bachelor of Arts, major in Communication degree holder at the University of Santo Tomas -Obtained her Master’s Degree in Public Administration at Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University in 1999 -Recipient of the 2013 Trafficking-in-Persons Hero Award of the US Department -Multi-awarded advocate of the rights of OFWs and laborers

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

Illustration by Justine Bacareza The Liberal Party stands as the second oldest political party in the Philippines. It was founded by former President Manual Roxas as a liberal counterpart to the Nacionalista Party. Excluding Pres. Roxas and Pres. Benigno Aquino III, two more presidents were members of LP: Pres. Elpidio Quirino and Pres. Diosdado Macapagal. In the 2016 elections, LP is led by Manuel “Mar” Roxas and Leni Robredo.

Franklin Drilon -Most recent senate president – a position he had previously held from April to November 2000, July 2001 to June 2004 and July 2004 to June 2006 -Successfully sponsored the swift passage of the General Appropriations Act for the years 2011, 2012 and 2013 -Chairman the Senate Finance Committee and the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on Public Expenditures -Led several clean up drives for the polluted and dying Iloilo River, and allocated funds to build the Iloilo River Esplanade -In 2002, partnered with the Federation of Filipino-Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry to build roughly around 1,800 classrooms using his PDAF. Leila de Lima -Served as Department of Justice secretary from 2010 to 2015. -Honored as an “Agent of Change” by the Akbayan Party-list -Former head of office at the Commission on Human Rights Nariman Ambolodto -Appointed as the DILG Assistant Secretary on Muslims Affairs and Special Concerns by President Aquino -Sole candidate from the Bangsamoro region in the LP senatorial slate -Convinced foreign donor agencies to continue supporting Maguindanao after the withdrawal of much of their official development assistance in the wake of the Ampatuan town massacre that drew worldwide condemnation Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan -Former senator and was senate majority leader from 2004 to 2008 -Principal author and sponsor of the Judiciary Compensation and Modernization Act. -Author of the law which doubled the pay of the National Prosecution Office -Authored the law which amended the Balik-Turo Program, thereby addressing the problem of shortage of teachers. Ralph Recto -Has served as senator and was senate president pro tempore -Named as the director-general of the National Economic and Development Authority in 2008. -Chaired the Committees on Ways and Means, and on Government Corporations and Public Enterprises -Co-chair for both the Joint Oversight Committee on the Proper Implementation of the National Internal Revenue Code, and the Joint Oversight Committee on the Official Development Assistance -Vice chairman of the Committee on Public Services and a member of the Commission on Appointments

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

Teofisto “TG” Guingona III -Has served as chair of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee. -Served as chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography. Jericho Petilla -Former secretary of the Department of Energy -Governor of Leyte for three straight terms, starting in 2004 -Actively promoted the energy-efficiency campaign “Energy Sense, Save Cents” to manage the demand side of the industry during the summer power shortfall Panfilo “Ping” Lacson -Served as a senator from 2001 to 2013 -Joined the Philippine Constabulary - Integrated National Police Anti-Carnapping Task Force in 1986, and in 1988, became the provincial commander of Isabela until 1989. -Former chief of the Philippine National Police from 1999 to 2001 -Authored the Anti-Money Laundering Control Act of 2001; the Alternative Youth Training Course, an optional program for college students; and the Anti-Human Trafficking Act of 2001 Joel Villanueva -Has served as TESDA Direction General Secretary. -Worked for the passage of the Government Procurement Reform Act, which called for a modernized, standardized and regulated procurement process to help root out corruption; the Anti-Red Tape Act; and the Senior Citizens’ Act Risa Hontiveros-Baraquel -Formerly Akbayan Representative, and PhilHealth Director -Secretary-General of the Coalition for Peace in 1988 to 1992; Member of the National Peace Conference in 1990 -Focuses on a position for the introduction of Divorce for the Philippines, as well as being for the Anti-Political dynasties bill Cresente Paez -Represented the Coop-NATCCO Party-list in five congresses -Served as Assistant Secretary for Support Services of the Department of Agrarian Reform in 1990 -Appointed as cooperative sector representative to the National Anti-Poverty Commission -Former board director of the United Coconut Planters Bank, and Aflatoun Child Savings International in Netherlands Mark Lapid -Elected as Sanggunian Kabataan Chairman at the age of 16 -Served as the Pampanga’s youth sector representative -Governor of Pampanga from 2004 to 2007. -Appointed as chief operating officer of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority

FEATURE

NPC Illustration by Shari Llamis The National People’s Coalition or NPC is a conservative political party established in 1992 by Eduardo Cojuangco, Jr. The party has endorsed Grace Poe as their presidential candidate together with Francis Escudero as vice president, although both are considered as independent candidates. NPC will be supporting the following senatorial candidates: Roman T. Romulo -Holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics degree from University of the Philippines – Diliman -Holds a Bachelor of Law from UP – Diliman -Conferred the degrees of Doctor of Public Administration, honoris causa by the Lyceum Northwestern University (2015) and Doctor of Humanities, honoris causa by the University of Baguio (2015) -Practiced law before his political career and worked as an associate at Quisumbing Torres & Evangelista Law offices; Senior associate at Sycip Salazar Hernandez & Gatmaitan Law Offices; Obtained training courses in various legal fields at the International Development Law Institute in Rome, Italy -Has authored and co-authored 130 house bills Neri J. Colmenares, Jr. -Went to the engineering school in West Negros College and the University of Negros Occidental Recoletos -Studied Bachelor of Arts in Economics at San Beda College -Holds a Bachelor of Law degree from the University of the Philippines -Earned his Doctorate Degree at the University of Melbourne in 2002 -Has been a member of the lower house for two consecutive terms; Current president of the National Union of the People’s Lawyers, a group of lawyers who fight for human rights

Sherwin T. Gatchalian -Holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree from Boston University in Massachusetts -Studied Corporate Finance at the Euromoney Institute of Finance. -Currently a member of the House of Representatives as the representative of Valenzuela City -Former Mayor of Valenzuela City -A recipient of The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) 2011 Honoree for Public Service and the Champions of Health Governance

Vicente C. Sotto III -Holds a Bachelor of Arts major in English from San Juan de Letran -Has served as senator -Served as Assistant Majority Floor Leader and was a member of the Commission on Appointments -Appointed by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo acting chairman of the Dangerous Drugs Board on July 4, 2008 Other senatorial candidates who are not being endorsed by NPC, but are supported by Poe and Escudero are Susan Ople, Ralph Recto and Edu Manzano.

Lorna Patajo-Kapunan -A graduate of Political Science from the University of the Philippines -Holds a Bachelor of Law degree -A senior partner of the Kapunan Lotilla Garcia & Castillo Law Offices; Senior Partner of the Roco Kapunan Migallos Perez & Luna Law Offices in the fields of Corporate, Litigation, Intellectual Property and Family Law; and Legal Consultant, Office of Senator Raul S. Roco, among others

Now, the problem is: Do these candidates guarantee good governance? We may sometimes be blinded with the good will they are promoting, without even knowing about their true intentions of running. This serves as an avenue to acquaint ourselves with the people who are vying to become senators of our country. The process of getting to know our candidates does not stop here. We should allot ourselves some extra effort to research about these candidates’ background, platforms, principles and track record. Vote wisely. TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

VOX POPULI

What do you think is the mos candidate for the Philippine e Jet Mangubat

Normally, a candidate would run for a certain position in order to serve the country. But in some cases, candidates would run for reasons like money or power. In order for us to determine whether this candidate has the potential to become a very efficient and

“Vision. A candidate should know what is best for his people and how to carry out his plan with efficiency. He should be able to look as fa into the day his term ends, and ask himself “What do I want the Philippine and its people to be by the time my term ends?” Goals and plans will guide the course of his service. He should also be flexible especially during times when things don’t go according to his plan.” – BS Computer Engineering 2 “A candidate should a man of action. We are all used to empty promises released by so many passing presidents that so little action has been done. We don’t need a man of words. We need a man who takes action.” – BS Industrial Engineering 2 “Equality. because we are living in a country where there is always ‘special treatments’. A lot of us Filipinos either rich or poor suffer from inequality.” – BS Civil Engineering 1 “For me, the most important principle that a candidate should have is a good conscience because this will help that candidate, if ever he/she wins, to make timely and relevant decisions regarding the status of the country and all aspects affecting it.” – BS Accountancy 1 “For me, the most important principles a candidate for election should embody are the following: Honesty and transparency in governance, hard work and dedication, basic knowledge of the Philippine Constitution and its by-laws, and most of all, a person who has the ability to understand all levels of the society – the rich, poor and the marginalized.” – BSBA-HRDM 3

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“They are capable to do all the responsibilities and tasks that he /she has to do. It doesn’t mean that they have to do that because they are in that position, they have also to show that they do it because that’s what their conscience or what they heart tells, that everything they think is for the betterment of the country. The most important principle for me, is to never let crime dominates the country and I want that the candidates to process a kind of law that will really give the people justice to the crimes that happening the country.” – BS Accountancy 1 “Sympathy to the people. The power of the government is vested upon by the people, and therefore the attention of the government should be no other than to serve what is due to the people. It is important for a candidate to understand the needs and woos of the Filipinos, so that if elected they may do their work in the most honorable, honest, and just manner possible.” – BS Psychology 1 “As a Filipino, I can say that a candidate must be transparent, social responsible and competent. he or she shall embody or represent the best interests of the people not just for the sake of popularity aside from that he or she must be capable of handling things for the sake of the country and our national interest. Don’t vote for a party or a candidate that had personal reasons for vying a certain position in the government but he had the brain and the heart to govern the people.” – BS Psychology 2 “Equity. Because they’re talking about being equal, they would give attention to all their concerns. But the question for the

VOX POPULI

st important principle that a elections should embody? reliable leader in our society, he/she must have an important principle for him/her to function effectively as a politician working for that certain position in the government.

rest is: Does this give enough attention to them? Well, equity is just the relying on the basis of its results. The results must be equally successful for their future plans.” – BS ICT 2

“Trustworthiness. People should look at the candidate's past records as the leader of their specific province, town, etc. and see if they did a good job in serving the public well or not.” – BS Nursing 2

“Loyalty and trustworthiness are the most important principles that a candidate of the Philippine election should have.” – BS Architecture 1

“The most important principles for the candidates of the Philippines are as follows; the urge for enhancement; willingness to learn; and to improve the political system of the Philippines.” – BS Pharmacy 2

“Tight principle and has firm knowledge. There are a lot of people running for that particular position. Everyone has their goals and mindset on something but it's either to destroy or to build. Any principle of the soon-to-be politician is acceptable, thus, it should be good or for everyone's welfare and safety.” – BS Interior Design 3 “The principle of Love. At some point, each of us must have this principle because everything beautiful follows when it comes to love. One example is that when a candidate has this principle, like the love to our country so as the people, other values would follow. Like the value of honesty. If the candidate loves the people he is serving, he won't manage to steal. If a candidate loves the people, he won't manage to tell a lie, etc.” – BS Architecture 2 “Honesty. A candidate must be true to himself and how he/ she behaves while working for that desired position. They must not make other stories just to escape the issue. Even if he/she won that certain position, he/she must be willing to pay the price and have to deal with that issue without telling people different lies.” – BS Pharmacy 3

“The value of service because to be leader is not to be served but it is all about serving others. and if one embodies the principle of service, everything just follows; he becomes a good leader for he thinks of his people and not his own self. he becomes diligent, honest, and selfless. he thinks about the progress of his country and his people, not the progress of his own life and his riches.” – BSED-SPED 2 “Iron will. It’s because a candidate should stand as a model for his/her people, to stand firm in his/her principle in order to lead the country with virtue and love, for he/she should be a strong influence of the people.” – BSED-English 4 “A president should be a good role model for his country and most importantly, a president must be a goal keeper, not a daydreamer.” – BSED-English 3 TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

POLITICS: A Pandora’s Box Theresa Kate Palompon

Illustration by Justine Bacareza

Once upon a time, Zeus decided to punish Prometheus for bestowing the knowledge of fire to the mortals. He shackled Prometheus to a boulder, but knowing Zeus, he would find this punishment meek, so he cooked up a plan to go after Prometheus’ brother Epimetheus as well. For Zeus’ next step, he ordered Hephaestus, the gods’ handyman, to create a daughter for him. Out of clay, Hephaestus intricately sculpted a woman of beauty. When Zeus breathed life into her, he called her Pandora. At first, Epimetheus was not deceived by Zeus’ offer to give him Pandora’s hand in marriage. He knew that she was a decoy, but accepted the proposition after falling for Pandora the moment he laid his eyes on her. During their wedding, Zeus gave them a jar with a special reminder not to open it and a key. Pandora’s curiosity was already dangling from the brim, and when she could not take it anymore, she opened the jar. Suddenly, all the adversaries of the world ﬂew out, but she was able to shut the lid in time to keep hope.

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

That was the classic tale of Pandora’s Box from the Greek mythology. Originally, the text was intended to be one of the Greeks’ creation stories, a myth to explain the origin of “evil.” However, it has become more than just another tale to satisfy man’s need to understand how things came to be. More than beginnings, the tale makes a point to show everyone that despite the chaos the world is experiencing, hope remains. However, does that hold true for the scope of Philippine politics today? For a very long time, politics in the Philippines has been critiqued by both experts and journalists. One of these critics was Oscar V. Cruz, a writer from CBCP News, who referred to Philippine politics as “the origin of wonderful promises as well as the cause of big disappointments productive of misery and poverty.” Since the elections are fast approaching, speck-free reputations and sweet avowals are constantly hyped up. Countless platforms presented as campaign advertisements are flooding television stations nationwide. At present, the elections have also become a period of baring the dirty secrets of incumbent officials. Corruption and issues on citizenship of presidential aspirants are just a few. Speaking of presidential candidates, over 15 presidents have led the Philippines since its independence from the Spaniards in the year 1898. Since then, so many hopes have led to disappointments and promises that were broken. General Emilio Aguinaldo, the pioneering president, is a common exemplar. According to history books, Aguinaldo did not have a consistent track record when it came to keeping his promises. He was also a controversial figure in Philippine history. When Gen. Aguinaldo first waved the Philippine flag from his balcony in Kawit, Cavite, the Filipino people anticipated liberation to be within their reach. They thought the man in their midst would fight for freedom with them, but an unexpected turn of events occurred. According to Satoshi Ara’s research, published in Philippine Studies: Historical and Ethnographic Viewpoint, Gen. Aguinaldo’s heroism can be considered questionable, considering his allegiance to two of his country’s colonizers. Although he claimed that he only collaborated with the Americans and Japanese to help his countrymen, he was and still is considered a traitor by many. Despite being a symbol of liberty, Gen. Aguinaldo became the suspected mastermind behind the death of some of our great heroes like Andres Bonifacio and Antonio Luna. Whether or not he was behind these killings, many believed that he could have done something to prevent them. Next on the list is the late Ramon Magsaysay, the “Idol of the Masses.” He was one of the best presidents, if having his term referred to as the “Philippines’ Golden Years” is any indication. Proof of Magsaysay’s commendable leadership was his conversion of Malacañang Palace into a “house for the people”, welcoming the public into its premises. Pres. Magsaysay sparked hope for the possibility of a better nation. During his term, he restored the people’s faith in the government and military. Just as everything was in its rightful place, tragedy struck the president. Magsaysay

died in a plane crash in 1957 after three years being in office. The nation mourned for the loss of one of the most outstanding leaders of the country. President Ferdinand Marcos, the dictator, was another significant leader of our country—though for a much different reason. He was a president founded on excellence, having studied in the best schools in the country like the University of the Philippines. At a young age, he was accused of killing his father’s political opponent, Julio Nalundasan. He was said to be evidently guilty, but his skill and influence allowed him to escape imprisonment. Marcos was a law school graduate who passed the bar exams with flying colors, after spending most of his review in jail. Several years after his short stint in prison, he became president and was able to alleviate the economic standing of the Philippines. He also married former beauty queen, Imelda Romualdez. Ferdinand Marcos was the first president ever to have two terms. During his second term, protests against his leadership started arising. Because of these threats, Marcos took matters into his own hands to protect his possessed power — thus, the proclamation of the Martial Law. The implementation of Proclamation No. 1081 did not turn out well for the country. Although it served its purpose of preserving Marcos’ power, it was at the cost of Filipino welfare. The Philippine economy suffered its first major downfall since World War II, leaving it with no choice but to borrow large sums from neighboring countries. Things did not end well for the Marcos regime when people finally took a stand against his dictatorship during the People Power Revolution. His infamous cases of corruption and nepotism continue to haunt the Filipinos of today. Pres. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III, the current president, is a known propagator of “Daang Matuwid”. He was specially requested to run for presidency after his mother’s death in 2009. Pres. Aquino, nicknamed PNoy, strived to continue the legacy his parents left against corruption. However, Aquino cannot seem to keep himself away from people who are suspected to be pocketing the people’s money. During his term, corruption cases sprang from different branches of the government. Some were terminated while some were left without action. Controversies swarmed Aquino with regards to the way he responded to the different crises the country experienced under his leadership. These events include the Super Typhoon Yolanda, the Mamasapano massacre, and the Luneta bus hostage taking as far back as his first year in office. Aquino is already close to the finish line, but his quest for “Daang Matuwid” has turned out to be a work barely in progress to this day. These are just a few examples that illustrate the plight of politics in the Philippines. Most people call it a personality game, focusing more on fame rather than competence. It is a battle of credentials rather than intention for service. As the National Elections are nearing, here comes another platter of hope served in front of the Filipino people — the same one presented to the past generations. If in the past these hopes were crushed, would this term make any difference? Or would politics remain to be just another Pandora’s Box? TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

SSC Elections

Part

Two. 20

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

THE USC-SSC YEAR END REPORT Connecting Warriors, Building Communities, Enabling Leaders. We, the USC Supreme Student Council believe in connecting warriors. We believe in connecting people of the same passions and ideals by providing platforms that elicit interaction and belongingness among Carolinians, enabling them to share and actualize their individual principles. We believe in building communities. We believe in strengthening networks by providing students not just the means to connect but to join groups and organizations that would empower them to be part of a cause or a movement greater than themselves. We believe in enabling leaders. The USC-SSC believes in empowering Carolinians through programs that would allow them to realize their leadership potentials. We believe that through connecting people and building ties, student leaders committed to their causes will arise. This is our vision. This is our mission. With the school year closely coming to an end, here are some of the highlights and activities done by the USC SSC A.Y. 2015-2016.

Under the Committee on Public Relations, the following activity has been approved and implemented by the council:

Online Infomercials

GADJA: Students’ Night

Before the school year began, infomercials were posted on USC-SSC’s Facebook page to inform the student body of upcoming endeavors and projects.

GADJA, being a Carolinian event since the early 2000s and the most successful Students’ Night in the past three years, was recently expanded to Cebu universities and colleges last summer. This year, it sought to celebrate the Warrior spirit, showcase Carolinian talent, and promote student involvement by inviting student organizations to have their booths on the event.

Warriors’ Fresh Camp With the collaboration of Warriors Turf, USC SSC, the collegiate councils and other student organizations, the first ever Warriors Fresh Camp set the school year with a blast for freshmen and transferees through a two-day event which covereds various activities that fulfilled C.A.M.P. – Celebrate. Access. Mingle. Play. Carolinian Summit

Warriors’ Fun Run Warriors’ Fun Run opened the USC Days with the goal of upholding Warrior identity and community by gathering Carolinians across different sectors in a run that’s not only physically beneficial, but socially engaging as well.

The Carolinian Summit was a two-day leadership program that aimed for genuine student development that provided leadership and personality development training as well as team building activities. This year, instead of only focusing on student organizations or representatives in the organization, all Carolinians were given the chance to join the summit.

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

ED Caravan

HARAGNA

ED Caravan was designed to address the inherent need of the student body to be informed and aware of different social realities in the nation, and issues occurring in their respective industries. Set in a conventional forum-like feel, the Educational Discussions tackled pertinent issues locally, nationally, and even on the university level. The EDs were done in a caravan-like style as it moved from one school to another.

HARAGNA, a three-day celebration, intended to genuinely encapsulate the essence of art. It was an intimate event that gathered artists and allowed them to connect with people who share the same passion as them. It was a movement that envisioned community building among Carolinian artists and in effect, establish an art culture within the university.

Under the Committee on Extra-Curricular, the following activity has been approved and implemented by the council:

IDiscount

transformed into a Christmas park in the spirit of the Holiday season. Aside from the physical decorations, there were also other activities such as a string quartet and belen-making. It was a reminder that no matter how much the students are consumed by their academics, they still found time to be merry for the Birth of Jesus Christ.

This project, in cooperation with the business sector, utilizes the USC Identification Cards as privilege cards to avail discounts from different participating establishments to provide financial assistance to students with ID Cards as discount cards. All in all, it included five25 brands ranging from school supplies shop to coffee shops, restaurants and other establishments that gave students privileges to enjoy participating establishments that cater to their interests.

Stand Up Comedy Show A stand-up comedy show was organized in cooperation with Comedy Cebu. The comedians ranged from those in the local, national, and even international scenes. The topics were diverse that revolved around current social issues. The event was held in Crown Regency-Fuente.

Carolinian Christmas Park A Christmas project wherein the Wrocklage Yard was

Under the Committee on Complaints, Grievances, and Investigation, the following activities have been approved and implemented by the council:

PDF Student Manual for Online Dissemination A PDF version of the recently revised Student Manual has been made available for every Carolinian which can be accessed through the Integrated School Management Information System (ISMIS) where every enrolled student has an account in. Carolinian Student Dialogue The Carolinian Dialogue was an event that gathered the SSC, the USC Administration and the students. The dialogue served as an open forum to discuss the issues and problems in the university. The program of the event includes the presentation of SSC’s projects, financial statements, administration’s presentation and the open forum. Student complaints that were raised during the forum were directly answered by the administration. Official Information Dissemination System The SSC wanted to answer the lack of a centralized information dissemination in the university. The CGI committee met with a lot of network companies and push

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

messaging companies and proposed the best deal to the admin. The Push-messaging system is a long process to establish and it was agreed that implementing such system would be continued for the next semester. Meeting with the Security and Student Services Offices At the beginning of the year, policies in the university were cleared out when the CGI committee met with the head of security office and the student services. With the nature and purpose of the CGI committee’s existence, the following complaints have been taken action and responded to:

-Architecture students complained with the change of curriculum -ID Sling Issue -Black Socks Policy -Certificate of Ownership Issue -Wrocklage Yard Issue -Talamban Campus Shuttle complaints -Other minor complaints

FEATURE

Under the Research and Documentation Committee, the following activities have been approved and implemented by the council:

Performance Appraisal for USC-SSC A.Y. 2015-2016 The USC Supreme Student Council, together with USC Junior People Management Associate of the Philippines, implemented the first ever systematic feedback channel that would allow student representatives to evaluate the performance of the current council. Having gathered student representatives from 24 student organizations within the university, the collective assessment was done last November 21 and 28, 2015. Program Appraisal for GADJA (Students’ Night 2015) Along with the implementation of the students’ night, a working committee for appraisal of the said project was established under it. With this, the Research and Documentation Committee along with other volunteers partnered with IdeaLab’s EvalueLine in gathering data deemed beneficial for evaluation.

The following ad-hoc committees were additionally established to complement the standing committees and address specific needs of the student body:

Health and Environment Committee • Student Ecological Movement (STEM) STEM was a student-based environmental unit of University of San Carlos Supreme Student Council in collaboration with the different student organizations. Stem was a year-long project that encapsulated every environmental movement bannered by all seven schools. • Sanitary Assessment and Food Evaluation (SAFE) SAFE was established to provide students the means to address their sentiments regarding the following issues: campus restroom facilities, food served by canteen concessionaires and environmental concerns. Committee on Finance • SSC Fees Watch Task Force The Fees Watch was established in 2014 and was able to eradicate Math 35 Lab fee other ghost lab fees. This year, the Fees Watch was able to remove the long-questioned Red Cross Membership Fee of fifty (50) PHP. Committee on Students’ Rights and Welfare The Committee on Students’ Rights and Welfare was established to spearhead the formulation of the USC Magna Carta of Students’ Rights --; a charter that will uphold and vanguard the rights of the students, specifying its extent, limitations, and corresponding responsibilities. Last December 7, 2015, a historic consultation occurred between the Supreme Student Council and the Student Organizations’ Presidents and Representatives wherein the draft charter was deliberated, scrutinized, and ratified by the body as a sign of support before its submission to the administration. Since 1992, a Magna Carta of Students Rights bill has long been pending and overdue in the Senate and House of Representatives. That is where the clamor for its institutionalization commenced. The USC Magna Carta of Students’ Rights, is the very first students’ rights charter in the nation where the Student Council, buttressed by the support of the student body, realized the creation of such document. As of writing, the 14-page document was already submitted to the Administration through the Office of Student Services for review and hopefully, approval. TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

OPINION

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

OPINION Are you planning to become an officer of the Supreme Student Council of the University of San Carlos? Do you want to know the ways of becoming a Supreme Student Council officer that the whole university respects, admires and loves? Or are you just wondering how this council thing works? Well, worry no more, because The Supreme Student Council for Dummies is for you! First, let me tell you about the Supreme Student Council, or SSC for short. It is a group of students elected by students to become the vanguards of the whole student body of the university. It is composed of one president, one vice president and 21 councilors — all tasked to protect the rights and welfare of the studentry by creating platforms for them and representing them in administrative matters. Sounds interesting? Are you up for it? Here, I will show you a step-by-step guide on how to be the most efficient SSC officer out there. After reading this guide, you will eventually be set to be one, guaranteed! 1. Contemplate if you are really qualified to become an SSC officer The job of an SSC officer is no easy feat, so you really have to think this decision through. First, think of the list of qualifications to be one. Are you a bona fide student of the university? Are you not expecting to graduate in the middle of the next academic year? Are there no chances of you dropping your studies in the entirety of the next academic year? Do you have relevant, effective and sustainable platforms for Carolinians? Are you committed to serving their interests? If you all said yes to these questions, you are now ready for the next step! 2. Run for office Now your plan to become an SSC officer is already set, but a plan will forever be a plan without putting it to action. Wait for the SSC election period — this usually starts on late January — and comply with all of the requirements needed to vie for a position. Join a political party that will hone your skills and establish your principles and ideals. File all those documents required, and make sure they are filed with all your honesty and integrity. If you have already complied with all of the requirements, it is time to woo the studentry with your platforms, your passion to serve, your intelligence and your charisma. Set up campaign gimmickry, as well! You can channel your inner heartthrob or sweetheart, because no one will really care if you have achieved many leadership awards or volunteered in different service activities unless you are good-looking and popular. You can also make catchy tag lines! It could be a slogan related to your advocacy, or it could be a chant that rhymes with your name. Follow all these guidelines and you will be seated in the council in no time!

3. Establish a rapport with your co-officers

projects that offers long-lasting results.

Congratulations! You are now a full-fledged SSC officer. You may already be so pumped up to start discussing your platforms, but it is also very much important to make friends first with the people you will work with for one academic year. Bothered that some of them belong to another party? When you become part of the SSC, you must strip off your political colors. You may have different ideals and principles, but remember that you all joined the council for one reason — to serve the students.

6. Continue the activities facilitated during previous terms

You must keep that in mind as your first priority. When you have established a bond with your fellow officers, doing your task together will be fluid and less hassling. 4. Establish a rapport with the studentry, as well Being an SSC officer entails protecting the rights of thousands of Carolinians. With only 23 seats in the council, that is a tough task. Therefore, an SSC officer must be humble enough to ask for help. Where can he best do that? From the students themselves. If there is one student council governing the entire Carolinian community, there are also various student councils and organizations catering to the interests of different schools, departments and other sectors in the community. You can reach out to them and involve them in the decision-making processes of the council to know the sentiments and ideas from different parts of the studentry. In this way, you can assure that no interest gets left behind. 5. Organize activities that cater to different interests As what has been said in the previous step, the SSC serves thousands of Carolinians. This means serving thousands of interests. How does one make sure all of them are taken careh of? Facilitate activities of different themes! Some of our Carolinians are leaders in the making, so leadership training programs can be spearheaded to foster their leadership skills. Some of them are also thirsty for knowledge found outside the four walls of the classroom, so you can hold educational discussions and invite speakers renowned in their fields to share their insights. We also have Carolinian athletes, so why not organize sports activities like fun runs, or support the games of our varsity players as they represent USC in different interschool events? We have budding artists, as well! Why not hold workshops and festivals and let them hone their craft and give them an avenue to show their works to a wide audience? Some of them are also activists for the environment; you can also facilitate activities that support their advocacies. However, you must also set your limits as to what interest should be catered and how much effort should be invested into it. If you think a project, no matter how attractive it is, only considers a fleeting interest and is not sustainable and relevant enough, then do not bother investing effort, money and time into it. Go for

If you think that there are projects done by the previous administrative terms that have served well for the Carolinians and their well-being, then there is a great reason for you to continue them. It is important that the projects of the SSC remain to be sustainable so there is consistency and a sense of coordination among different terms. This is the best indicator of putting service to the students — not service to oneself or other parties driven by agenda — as first priority. 7. Understand that some projects will take a long while before getting implemented There are a lot of platforms that are so good that you just want them to be implemented in a jiffy. However, we must be grounded by the fact that good things take time. Be patient when it comes to these kinds of projects, and most of all, wait for the right time before informing the students about it. You would not want them to look at you like how they have been looking at that thing called love nowadays — that term called paasa. 8. Make sure that the rights and welfare of the students are well-protected The rights and welfare of the Carolinians should be taken care of above everything. There is no use of all of those activities and programs if tuition fees continue increasing, school policies are still oppressive, and the voice of anyone in the community — no matter the gender, race, age or organization — remains unheard. You must keep communication lines open between the school administration and the students. A dialogue from time to time contributes a lot to that. It also helps to provide a binding document that holds an agreement between the students and the administration about the rights of the former, so no student feels harassed in the school setting. 9. Note that a leader cannot be efficient without the cooperation of its constituents You just have one last step to do! However, this step does not involve you anymore, but the people you serve — the Carolinians. You see, even when you have taken all those nine steps to heart, all of them would be useless if no one receives the effort. Serving an apathetic student body is like feeding a corpse. How will you be able to attract their attention, then? How will you entice them to participate, get involved, or at least notice your efforts? You do not. It is entirely up to their hands. If you think there is still something you can do, go for it. However, if you think you have done everything in your power to serve the studentry, all you can do is wait for them to reciprocate. And they will. They will if you do not give up on them. TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

NEWS FEATURE

USC-SSC ELECTIONS 2016 By the USC Commission on Elections

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

NEWS FEATURE

Service Starts Now was a campaign launched last year by the USC-SSC COMELEC. The project was spearheaded by the previous chairperson, Danica Blanche Fernandez. The campaign sought to raise awareness among the Carolinians and to encourage the student body to actively vote during the year’s elections.

The campaign proved successful as there was a significant increase of voters from 2014’s 33% to 43% last year. This year, Service Starts Now hopes to have an even bigger increase in this year’s election as more students are being made aware with the country’s own national elections coming our way. On March 10, 2016, the USC Supreme Student Council Elections will be conducted. The Comelec knows a great number of students are new and are still unaware of how the elections are conducted. We believe that voters should be educated on such matters. The same automated system for conducting the elections will still be used and the process of voting will also be the same wherein students shall proceed to a voting precinct located in all three campuses. The students shall be able to vote for the candidates they choose to represent them in the next school year’s student government. The results will be tallied and shall be projected by the eve of March 10. The results will be presented in the USC-Commission on Elections Facebook page. The said results, however, will still be considered as unofficial and will still be open to protests. If there are no contests, only by then will the results become official.

Thus, a new set of USC-SSC Officers will be inducted for the A.Y. 2016- 2017. One thing added this year is the logo re-design. The new logo shows a human head using the ridges from a human fingerprint to symbolize the identity and uniqueness of each individual voting for their SSC. The green “play button” logo is still present. Finally, adding a little bit more to the “Service Starts Now” slogan, it was decided that the phrase “It Starts With Me” will be added to increase of the turnout of voters. The USC-SSC Elections is a great way for the Carolinian Community to be involved in shaping the University’s governing body, especially since the National Elections are also underway. People always speak of wanting to see a change, but change only begins when we allow it to. It begins when we choose to serve the greater good. The Supreme Student Council serves the Carolinian Community. Comelec serves the Carolinian community. It’s time the Carolinian Community presses play on service. Say it with us, Carolinians: Service Starts Now and It Starts With Me! TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

THOUGHTS ON

Student Leadership Gab Arcenas

Illustration by Geralden Morre

When we say student leader, we always think of the peers in school we look up to; those who seem like they have it all together all the time: The ones who spearhead major events and who tirelessly work while others are slacking off. Being a student leader may look good on a résumé, and it may sound like a very good position to be in, but what some of us fail to realize is that it is one of the most exhausting positions for a student to be in. Being head of an organization is much more than people think it is. “Ngiga dah! President! Maikog man sad ta oi!” Of course it’s fun to hear that, and it takes the pressures and load off when your friends poke fun at your position. It lightens the mood and makes one relax. However, when the joking is over and the responsibilities begin, that is where we start to see what it really takes to be a student leader. First, what inspires students to be leaders? What is their drive? Some aspire to be leaders because they want to gain experience to help them through life. Some are forced into it and end up doing better than expected of them. Some become leaders because they are chosen or appointed. Some just want to be able to make a change. It all begins with joining an organization. Students join organizations because they wish to meet other passion-driven people or because it is an avenue for them to learn new skills and hone their abilities. When a student joins an organization, they are submitting themselves to the scrutiny and criticism of their higher ups. If they perform well, they themselves will be following in the footsteps of those before them. It is always an accomplishment for a member of an organization to reach a higher position of authority because it shows that that member has exceeded expectations and that their peers, as well as their superiors, have seen that they have the capabilities to lead the organization to reach higher. Being a student leader, at first, can be overwhelming. There are roles they do not own but have to fill simply because they are “leaders”. Everyone looks up to them for guidance and reassurance. Anxiety and stress become their best friends and sleep and rest seem like distant lovers we never get to see. When asked about how they felt being elected president of their collegiate council, Audrey Chua, Darla Maluya, Arther Fajardo, and Moira Manuel from SAFAD, SAS, SHCP, and SLG respectively, gave their own personal opinions on the matter.

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

“The satisfaction from a successful event is like nothing else, but it doesn’t come without a little sacrifice. Each course we go into has their own demands and pressures — throw in heading two or more organizations and it’s a nightmare come true. We need to know what to prioritize and what is unnecessary. Don’t waste time on things — and sometimes people — that are toxic in our life. We need a healthy mind to be productive. Secondly, look for support. Friends can help catch up on school if ever anything is missed. Plus, having their emotional support for when a good rant is needed keeps us sane. Lastly, it’s important to know the strengths and weaknesses of your team, including oneself. Know your limits and ask for help when you need it. Overall, while perfection is always the goal, focus on efficiency to get the job done, especially when time is a factor. It’s not easy balancing the responsibilities that come with being a leader with academics. It’s not easy, but the experiences that are gained through these responsibilities are worth the sacrifices that are made” Chua answered. “Being a student leader requires more than just a ‘go-getter’ attitude. It requires a lot of sacrifices, blood, sweat, and tears. It also requires nerves made of steel because, as a leader, one is always the first to take the fall if something goes wrong. If we let emotions get in the way, we allow ourselves to let the criticism take over and pull us even further down,” stated Maluya. On the matter, Manuel said, “I feel like stress is all in our mind, when you just sit and then over think of how many things you will have to do you will end up feeling that your energy drained and then start to fear that you might fail to do all of these. Time indeed is our greatest battle and it isn’t something I alone can deal with; and so, I always have my team with me and together we plan things out. We brainstorm and share the different tasks and make sure that everyone has a role to play. A great author once said, ‘When you failed to plan, you planned to fail.’” Being a student leader is never easy. It requires student to push themselves to the brink of exhaustion, and after that, they are required to push ourselves even further. It is a challenge every day to head an organization and to worry about its upkeep as well as our own academics. We are students, first and foremost, but the responsibilities we accept are ones we cannot avoid as well. Accepting the responsibility of becoming student leaders takes bravery and must be respected. There are times where we must be asked to do much more than our position is defined, where we must take on the position of others and juggle their tasks, our own, and our studies. Being a student leader in an organization isn’t all fun and games; it requires a lot of patience, understanding and persistency because, as leaders, there are those who look up to us and we are put under pressure to ensure that those who put us in such a position do not get disappointed, as well as those who look up to us do not get disillusioned. It is a great difficulty, but at the same time, when we see the success of a leader, whether it be in members, in events — in anything, really, the sense of accomplishment is the best feeling in the world. TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

OPINION

Illustration by RK Tiu

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

OPINION

Dear Juana, Perhaps it would be more dramatic to say that the most recent time we were together was a night painted in the skies, where planets aligned, dotted with stars all over. It was the day of elections. More vividly, it was the night you were proclaimed. A year passed by so fast like a tornado turning our lives into a somersault of mishaps. The promises you made in your campaign were all turned into sand, drowned by the summer sea. What has become of us now is pictorially making us look nothing but sailors so desperately wanting ourselves to keep afloat amidst countless storms. You were, and always will be, my favorite candidate. I wish you the best in life. Truly, I do. Only one thing would make me happier aside from the chance to see you happy even if it will be at the expense of my own happiness, and that is the day you will finally step down. You deserve nothing less than genuine happiness. Live the life you want to live and maybe someday you will cross paths with the one worthy of you, and maybe I will meet one worthy of me, too. Hopefully, that day will come that we will see each other again, mutually knowing by then how we were always meant to be, but it was just one of those instances back then where the timing wasn’t just right. Maybe by then we could try again. However, a part of me doesn’t want you back unless you promise me this time, you will do what you will promise in your campaign. At some point in our lives we convince ourselves we are a complete puzzle, but people suddenly come into our world and make us think about everything again. Everything. You make me ask myself a handful of questions, which you spontaneously give answers to. You make me imagine things I never dreamed of before such as making my life in school better, giving me discounts in establishments by just using my ID, the promise to have a system where announcements were sent directly to my mobile phone, the thought of giving me a colorless government and the idea of preventing the increase of tuition to make life easier for me. You are one of those one-in-a-million people who make me want to be good or even better. After all that has been said and done, only one or two of those promises came to life, and it is sad how the way it happened was nowhere near to how you promised it to be back then. It’s as if you only did it for the sake of just doing it. You made me realize too late that I have been clinging to you like a raft; how can I live now when I couldn’t even imagine myself letting go? Here’s the catch. I am letting go. You are everything, but hope. I do not wish to leave it all on you. I had my faults. I listened for the purpose to have something to say back; I listened so I can talk back when I should have just listened to simply understand. One thing is for sure, though. I do understand that loss is imminent. We don’t want to lose people. Yes, it is true, yet honestly, we opt to lose people because we have already lost ourselves; I am losing you because I am losing me. I voted for you because you promised to do things to me, but in reality I only voted for you without you doing the things you promised to do to me. I already promised myself to be wise next time. Whenever that next time comes, I will vote for the one who is worthy of me. By then, I will have already learned to love again and allow myself to be loved back. Love, Karl Sayson, your number one voter

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

SURVEY

MARCH 2016:

National and SSC Elections

POPULATION: 550 students School of ENGINEERING

4% 19%

School of EDUCATION School of LAW & GOVERNANCE School of BUSINESS & ECONOMICS

37%

18%

School of ARCHITECTURE, FINE ARTS & DESIGN 5%

School of HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONS

12%

School of ARTS & SCIENCES

Have you registered as a voter for the national elections?

65%

YES

35%

Are you convinced that the government has our well being as its first priority?

24%

If not, why?

32% 4% 9% 50% 6%

Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly Disagree

Do you believe that the Philippines is in a better place now than where it was six years ago?

44% 25% 31%

I don’t like any of the candidates I’m not interested I’m underage Others

President Aquino did well during his term as President of the Republic.

4% 33% 45% 15% 3%

I wasn’t able to find time to register

Yes No Unsure

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

YES

76%

Corruption is inevitable in any political system.

31% 38% 13% 14% 4%

Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly Disagree

Where do you think that the next set of leaders should focus?

12% 14% 10% 4% 14% 8% 12% 8% 12% 5%

Transportation and Communication Education Agriculture Tourism Labor and Employment National Defense Health Trade and Industry Environment Foreign Affairs

SURVEY

Do you think the candidates for this upcoming elections are worthy to lead the country?

8% 40% 35% 14% 3%

Doing great It’s okay I don’t see progress I’m not updated

I don’t care

Strongly Agree Agree Neutral Disagree Strongly Disagree

YES

41%

80%

A little bit Not really No

YES

20% NO

53% 14%

Yes

33%

Indifferent

Do you think the SSC should cut down the number of councilors for more efficiency? YES

48%

Do you think that voting in the SSC elections should be mandatory for every student in the university? YES

39%

Do you think the services of the upcoming Supreme Student Council will improve?

86% 3% 11%

Yes

I read articles if I come across an interesting one I pick up or overhear most of my information from others I don’t

Do you think that the outgoing Supreme Student Council was outstanding in its job?

61%

I do occassional research

Will you vote this coming SSC elections?

52%

I am very interested

Yes No need for improvement No

Have you taken part in any protest, march or demonstration to express your views about something the government should or should not be doing?

12%

11%

Do you think that the youth is still very well involved with political process?

34% 42% 17% 7%

Strongly Disagree

Do you believe that the country can continue to progress without sacrificing the needs of the people?

59%

Disagree

I know what needs to be done to vote in the presidential elections.

21% 44% 29% 5% 1%

How actively do you keep up with current events and politics?

21% 27% 40%

Strongly Agree Agree Neutral

How are the presidential candidates doing in their campaigns so far?

4% 56% 24% 10% 6%

YES

88%

Have you tried accepting money or any form of material benefits from candidates in exchange for your vote?

YES

94%

*Items whose percentages that sum up more than 100% because of surveyee’s liberty of choosing multiple answers

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

OPINION

Who Guards the Guardians? Frederick Head

Illustration by Paolo Manghihilot

The USC Supreme Student Council (SSC) is undoubtedly the most important and the most powerful assembly of students within our university. It is its task to cater to the needs of us students â&#x20AC;&#x201D; more specifically, to protect us from oppressive university policies, to give us an avenue where we can share our talents and capabilities and to represent the entire student body in the midst of social and political concerns. In short, they are our guardians.

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

OPINION

Truly, the outgoing SSC is a mile better than the excuse-of-an-SSC we had in the span of 2014 to 2015, and we can only hope that the next set of leaders have the capability to continue with the improvements we apparently have. However, are these aspiring guardians truly as perfect as they present themselves to us? Are they really embodying the values they proclaim? Upon answering these questions, we should recognize that it is here that we — the entire student body — grimly fail. After the hype of the SSC elections, we somehow become indifferent about the supposed guardians we elected. As such, despite how we give them the responsibility to protect us, we also give them the freedom to abuse the high status with which they are entrusted. Look at how we elected two members of SSC this year — one was graduating the next semester and the other did not enroll. Although the COMELEC acted upon this, imperfectly but still effectively to say the least, this is not the first time this happened. The same situation happened in the SSC elections in 2012, where a councilor ran but did not enroll in one semester during her term. Making matters worse, she got away with it. This is a clear violation of the trust we students place upon these candidates. We do not deserve to be treated this way. Nobody should take advantage on us. In addition to this, a fraction of those in office are also more interested in advancing the ideals of their respective political party rather than the interests of the student body. Despite our outgoing SSC president’s advocacy for a “colorless” SSC, it just cannot be if not everyone cooperates, and unfortunately, not everyone cooperates. We do not need to know that this political party organized this event, or that political party initiated that protest. We do not need candidates not attending SSC meetings because they do not serve the interests of their party. The very visible mudslinging against one another is not helping either. What we students want to see is a truly unified SSC. Another thing, these guardians — these leaders — should truly exemplify what it means to be an excellent student. Although a significant number of the SSC are academic achievers in their own right, some are just finding it too difficult to catch up. As to why being academically well rounded should be something we have to look at, we have to always remember that before anything else in this university, we are students pursuing our respective academic degrees, and as such, our leaders should be great role models for that. Goodness, it is a complete shame that someone who failed four times is representing the voice of the student body. However, we must admit that it is truly unfair if we point solely at the SSC for all these mishaps. We should also examine ourselves. We ourselves put those people there in the first place. Look at how we incessantly vote for a beautiful face even though her credentials have no connection whatsoever to being a leader. Look at how we elect that one guy because he is everyone’s friend. Look at how we solely look at the façade of a candidate and not at his or her background and capabilities. We do not need leaders who can dance. We do not need leaders who can sing. We do not need leaders who can organize a darned talent show or party. We do not leaders whose hunger for attention is insatiable. Heck, we even barely need leaders who are pompously and pretentiously political, having a say in matters that are obviously very miniscule, as if shutting up is fatally toxic. What we need are leaders who can identify what our problems are, those who sympathize with our struggles as students and truly do something about them. What we need are leaders who can protect us and defend us not only during times when we need them to — but always. This is why we should stop being a bunch of apathetic pieces of poo, and start reading those small walls of text below the names of each candidate — because ultimately, we guard the guardians. Exercise your right. Be vigilant. Vote wisely. TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

VOX POPULI

What do you think is the m that a candidate for the S Theresa Kate Palompon

Apart from the National Elections, one significant event the University of San Carlos’ students are looking forward to would be the Supreme Student Council Elections. It has become a venue for students to practice their right of suffrage in a university level. As for student leaders, it serves as a platform to implement changes that are beneficial to the student body. Unlike government officials, they are not there to establish infrastructures or to draft laws, but they work as the voice of the students in the university. They are meant to heed to the call for improvement and change. While they spearhead major

“For the upcoming elections, I expect the candidates to uphold accountability and transparency because if they want to prove to us that they are worth our vote, then they must be accountable by any means and they must let the people know what they have to know. They must be open.” -- Mar Louie Vincent C. Reyes, AB POSC IRFS-ECON 2

“One should be ready to face and accept all the challenges that might come in the way. As a leader, he should not always do the talking and all but instead, he should start doing it for the rest to follow. Most importantly, as a Carolinian, he should always be a witness to the Word.” - BSCE-1

“An SSC member must be competent. He must be able to listen to his constituents and their concerns and is a keen observer of present issues in his environment. He must also be able to speak out in behalf of the student body and act upon their concerns.” – BEED-1

“I think that the most important principle that a candidate for SSC should embody is the trait of being able to innovate and lead with the expression of firm ideas. He/she should incorporate initiative and responsibility in his/her deeds, as well as words. It’s like a fraction of being Ms. Universe, in other terms, confidence accompanied with passion.” -Paunie Navarro, BS ARCH-1

“Awareness and action. It is important as a student leader to be aware (more than aware) of what’s happening around the campus and its students. Awareness that should not be confined into a single perspective because by then you won’t see the bigger picture, the core problem that should’ve been solved first. Being aware is a responsibility that we should act on. Actions that should not serve them but for the good of all.” – Angeli Guanzon, BSPsyc-4 “Willing to do anything for the good of others.” - Harold Amaba, BSBA-MKTG 2

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

“Probably good understanding, open minded and being flexible to circumstances.” –BS Pharmacy 1 “Para nako ang pinaka-ideal na attitude or characteristic sa isa ka mu dagan kay considerate kay it’s like having a position in the government, you have to consider what must be done and what the people want, and to be able to compromise.” - Miguel Luisito G. Mañago, AB POSC LPS 1 “Para sa akin - pag-unawa, dahil kinakailangan nang

VOX POPULI

most important principle SSC should embody? school activities and justify policies that are oppressive to students, they are also weaving for us the path towards a better school year. As another batch of candidates are introduced, another wave of promises shall be presented to everyone as well. However, what should be the basis in choosing our new officers? In a world where even university politics play the “personality game”, what is the real criteria for someone to be worth electing as an SSC officer?

isang leader na makaunawa sa damdamin at pulso ng kanyang inirerepresentang sektor upang mapagsilbihan ang mga interes at hinaing nito.” – Bed-SpEd “Honesty, proper work ethics, creative service, integrity and a more multi stream type of a leader.” - Ricardo Enriquez, BSBA-MKTG MNGMNT 1 “To think about the university’s best. Not only for the academic privilege, but also to all the factors that can help improve the university. He/she must be responsible for that certain position that he/she wants to be in office to.” - AB Comm- Media 2 “Actively trying to achieve a goal.” – BS CpE 1 “The one who’ll do the things he/she says, not say the things he/she can’t do. I want a candidate who acts like a person, not an overachiever. I want a candidate with enough background and experience, not a candidate with enough looks and fame. I want someone who won’t change the school for the better, but someone who can prove that we are the best.” - Keith Raymier Ayuman, BFA-Cinema “Lead by example. That’s the most important principle.”

-Denise Marie Albarina, AB POSC IRFS ECON 2 “The ability to be truthful. The students that vote for a candidate must be able to trust them with all the issues, changes, and any other significant events that may occur throughout their school years.” – BEED 1 “I think that the most important principle that a candidate of the SSC should have is the proper emphasis of public service because the effectiveness and efficiency of a leader is measured through his/her service to the people. What is a leader if he/she thinks only of himself/herself? A good leader should also be a good servant, so that the benefits that both the leader and the members of the organization will acquire would be mutual.” –Joshua Raymundo, BSA-1 “He/she should be responsible enough to uphold the role to lead.” - Ela Abrantes, BS-ICT 1 “I think it would be responsibility.” – John Solis, BS-ME 1 “Tenacity to overcome any and every obstacle.” - Jan Christian Duterte, BS-ARCH 1 TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

LITERARY

Mga Sagot ng Pangkaraniwang Estudyante Sharmaine Doza

Illustration by Justine Bacareza “DL ka ba?”

“Committee ka?”

Hindi. Lumiban ang pangalan kong pumasok sa listahan ng mga nakakuha ng malalaking marka sa taong ito. Hindi ako kabilang sa mga aakyat sa entablado upang mabigyan ng tumatagingting na papel at makunan ng litrato kasama ang mga guro. Hindi ako kabilang sa grupong nais makakuha ng 1.7 o higit pa dahil numero lang naman iyon. Ang pangalan kong wala sa listahan ay mawawala rin lang sa alaala ng mga tao dahil ako’y pangkaraniwang estudyante lamang.

Hindi. Bibigyan ko pa ba ang sarili ko ng dagdag na trabaho? Tama na ang mga takdang-araling nagpapaikot ng paningin ko. Tama na ang mga sunud-sunod na eksameng ‘di ko tanda ang paksa. Estudyante pa lang ako, bakit ko pahihirapan ang sarili kong maging parang nagtatrabaho na? Darating din naman ang panahong iyon. Hindi ako magmamadali dahil ako’y pangkaraniwang estudyante lamang. “Tatakbo ka ba sa darating na eleksyon?”

“Na-perfect mo ba ang exam?” Hindi. Wala sa isip kong ‘di magkamali sa mga pagsusulit na hindi ko rin naman napaghandaan. Hindi ko nais matawag at mapalakpakan sa pagsasauli ng mga test paper. Walang halaga sa akin ang mapansin ng mga kaklase dahil wala naman akong makukuha sa bumabahang bilang ng kaibigan. Walang halaga sa akin ang makilala ng gurong posibleng maging makatrabaho ko dahil babalik ako sa simula, pangako. Basta ako’y makapasa lang. Basta ako’y makakapagtapos. Ako’y pangkaraniwang estudyante lamang.

Hindi. Pagsisilbi sa mga taong hindi ko kilala, pagngiti sa kahit na sino’ng makasalubong ko, pagpapakilala at pagpapabango sa pangalan kong walang halaga, pagpapangako ng bagay na hindi ko magawa, wala sa plano ko ang mga iyan. Dahil ako’y pangkaraniwang estudyante lamang. “Gusto mong sumali sa paligsahan?” Hindi. Para saan ba ang mga iyan? Isang instrumento na naman upang mabenta ang sarili sa mga panay humanga! Kuntento na ako sa estado ko ngayon. Isang estudyanteng ‘di papansin, ‘di mapapansin, at ‘di napapansin. Ano pa nga ba ako? Isang pangkaraniwang estudyante lamang. “Pinagmamalaki ka ba?” Hindi. Mas gusto kong magtago sa aking sariling sulok. Mas gusto kong pasayahin ang tanging sarili ko lamang, at gusto kong tuparin ang mga hinahangad kong ako lang ang may alam. Hindi ko kailangan ng atensyon upang maging matagumpay. Ako at ako lang ang nakakaalam kung kailan ko masasabing ako nga ay nagtagumpay. Hindi ikaw, hindi sila, ako lang. Kaya’t sa inyong mga mata’y ako ay pangkaraniwang estudyante lamang. “Ano ba talaga ang pangkaraniwang estudyante para sa’yo?” Wala. Lahat tayo ay may sariling pananaw, may sariling hangarin at may sariling paraan kung paano makamit ang anumang inaasam. Ang pangkaraniwang estudyante ay umiiral dahil sa inyo na matataas ang tingin sa sarili. Dahil sa mga pamantayan ninyong kayo lang din ang gumawa. Malalakas ang loob ninyong ipagsigawan sa mundo na may pangkaraniwan ngunit hindi ninyo alam, na sa mata ng iba, kayo’y pangkaraniwan din lang. Walang pangkaraniwan kung ang sarili mo lang bibigyan mo ng katumbukan. “Masaya ka ba?” Oo, at dahil ika’y nagtanong, iyon ay dahil ako’y pangkaraniwang estudyante lamang. TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

LITERARY

Building Houses

Kyn Noel Pestaño

On most days I see this country as a house of cards, a structure of individuals held precariously by chance and each other. Some days, I view it as an archipelago of a thousand islands, home to sun-kissed faces and work-worn hands. In days like these however, months before elections, I’d like to see it as our motherland, where we are loyal not to the pull of gold, but to the heritage in our bodies. But reality is subject to neither my musings nor my pen, so I have to settle with what is there; a southern pearl stuck in a tug-of-war for power. As the elections creep in the airwaves and the panels of our screen, I try to find sense in the number of saints I see. These politicians, these good, selfless pillars of honesty and justice whose concerns are forever for the people, I wonder how they manage to sleep through the night. Perhaps with the help of luxury pillows bought by tax-payers’ money. Or perhaps they never do, because sleep is time that could have been spent in winning their game of thrones. Scampering throughout this nation in a rat race for power, they step momentarily into the dirt so as to give the impression of equality to those who have lived forever in it. Bearing native feet under foreign shoes, they pick up mud to throw at each other, hiding stains under pristine speeches in the aftermath. This, after all is a race only the cleanest can win. Pity that so many of them wear clothes instead of intentions. I do wonder why the masses tolerate these antics, but I guess I cannot blame them. They are loyal only to the promise of a better life. It’s hard, however, to not feel frustrated with how they still choose to fill their ballots when everyday shows a portrait of their previous mistakes. It makes you think of just how ill our government has become, for its people to trade their rights for a day’s meal. But confining ourselves to the well-deserved spite of most politicians will not change the fact that we have to put someone in power, to hold our trust for another six years. And so I hope we choose past the peso bills, that our loyalty will rest not in gold but in the legacy that we leave. Because this nation is a house of cards, and our choices as individuals will tell if it endures. TC

Illustration by Geralden Morre

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

ELECTIONS

ELECTIONS TC interviews each party running for this year’s Supreme Student Council Elections.

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

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The Student Power Party (SPP) was founded on February 14, 1998. It stands strong on five core principles: student empowerment, advocacy-driven service, academic democratization and excellence, transparency and accountability and socio-economic responsibility. For 18 years, SPP has continued to fight for students’ rights. It has organized and supported numerous activities that uphold and defend the rights of the students. SPP firmly believes that the University of San Carlos can become not only an avenue of learning, but also of students’ leadership, creativity and expression. Improved campus facilities, open exchange between the students and the administration, enhanced response to complaints, quality projects and events, increased transparency and accountability, influx of opportunities for Carolinians – these are just some of the things SPP envisions for USC. In SPP, every student has the potential to be a catalyst for change. Constantly believing that everyone has the potential to become student leaders, SPP is composed of empowered members seeking change and improvement for all Carolinians. SPP aims to mold them into responsible change-makers who have a selfless vision to serve USC and society as a whole. In campaigning for an election of change, SPP lends an ear to the woes of the student body in order to formulate timely solutions. Although SPP recognizes that much effort is already done by the administration, student organizations and the Supreme Student Council to fulfill the needs of the students, it also believes that there is still so much more to be done. “Students unite, fight for our rights!” This is the first line of SPP’s brave battlecry. The Carolinian community is a pool of different colleges, different personalities, different interests and different priorities. However, SPP believes that unity in diversity is possible. Once the students empower each other and unite for their rights, doors leading to greater paths for the Carolinians will be opened. “Pagsulti ug baruganan, gahum sa tinun-an!” The second part of the battlecry recognizes the very foundation of SPP: the students themselves. The Student Power Party is nothing without the students – both the students who serve and the students we serve. Real power inside the university is with the students. With the students united and unafraid, the possibilities are limitless. SPP will always be with the students. At all times, SPP seeks what is right and just for the Carolinians. Truly empowered service does not tremble and get carried away by the ebb and flow of student politics. It remains steadfast and strong. This is the service SPP will always offer to the Carolinian community. Your struggles are our struggles. Your fights are our fights. STUDENTS UNITE, FIGHT FOR OUR RIGHTS! PAGSULTI UG BARUGANAN, GAHUM SA TINUN-AN! Platforms Freedom Forum In this University, students are faced with various issues that stem from the different views between them and the administration. The Freedom Forum offers an avenue for students to air their sentiments and complaints for the administration to respond and address these issues. It is in this project that a better and more open relationship between the students and the administration is fostered. This dialogue aims to make this University a better environment for the entire Carolinian studentry as we address each issue. GARDS (Grievances And Rants Directive System) Carolinians have various grievances and rants that they want the administration to respond. Further, there are students who are too timid and afraid of airing their complaints. GARDS aims to address those concerns to the proper authorities, while ensuring the anonymity and security of those students who directed their complaints to the SSC. In here, students are empowered to voice out their concerns and the council will serve as representative on their behalf so that these grievances and rants would be put to rest. S. I. A. (Social Issues Awareness) As life-long learners, Carolinians must be well-versed with the current social issues affecting them and the society-at-large. This program offers a cocktail of activities such as seminars, organizational involvement and immersion.

P .L .A . Y. (Positive Leisure Activities for the Youth) A Community Extension Service program that harnesses the sports-oriented spirit of Carolinians by providing sports and developmental activities such as basketball, volleyball and chess clinics as well as team-building courses and other activities that entail physical involvement, the spirit of sportsmanship, fun, and enjoyment. S. M. I. L. E. (Students Making Impacts to the Lives of the Elderly) Recognizing the authentically Carolinian statement, “What we have, we share”, students will be encouraged by this program to extend help to the elderly. This shall involve encounters/visits, sharing of resources and continued, committed communication, bridging the gap between age groups. D. O. T. A. (Donate and Take Action) Faced with many advocacies that have to be addressed, students are offered an opportunity to help in identified activities whether to donate in kind or to volunteer their services. REDvolution Continue giving you true leaders inside SSC. This platform aims to re-establish what are truly important for a leader: compassion, sincerity, genuineness and other values that have been lost in our digital age. C. A. R. (Career, Assessments and Re-evaluation) A series of program where students would reflect and visualize on their respective fields of interest. F. A. T. (Financial Accountability and Transparency) This movement promotes Carolinian Empowerment by fighting for students’ rights by providing liquidation reports from time to time basis that will make the students aware on how their fees are being managed.

S P P

T. G. I. F. Act (The Grievances In Facilities Act) This program allows the students to report complaints about malfunctioning school facilities to ensure that the students will get their money’s worth. L. I. F. E. (Learning In the Future Environment) It is a career path program that aims to give talks and interactive activities that support career options or trajectory for students unsure what paths to take. I. D. S. (Information Dissemination System) A system in which students receive announcements and news around the university with just one text away. This program allows announcements readily available at the palm of our hands Information dissemination becomes more efficient and hassle-free. Be aware, be part of IDS. C. O. C. (Carolinian: Operation Calamity) It is a sustainable program that aims to provide quality community extension service to different calamity victims through collaborative efforts of helping students. This will serve as a bridge for willing students who want to help the victims and give them opportunity to rise up and get back on their feet. With this, it can develop the sense of service and a sense of responsibility of a Carolinian towards the community. U - Turn (University Turn) An event not just only for the college students, it is also for the high school students. This is a fair that will guide them or give them an idea on what paths they would take and would be able to reflect on what prior endeavor they would want. As college students, we Carolinians should be their inspiration, someone they could look up to. S. H. C. P. (Safety, Health, and Care Program) This project aims to support and strengthen students’ safety through providing first aid stations and support from our medical teams during big events in our University and also promote healthy food watch in our school canteens to maintain proper sanitation and food preparation. Carolinian Career Project A project that aims to collaborate and partner with different business establishments around Cebu to provide the Carolinians opportunities to intern, freelance and work even as early as during their freshmen years. This project aims to give the Carolinians a Carolinian Edge over the other graduates of other universities. Why should the student body vote for you? SPP candidates know how it feels to be a regular student that does not seem to be a stakeholder of this university. Being part of the existing SSC makes one realize how important his role is as a student representative, but at the same time, how little has been done to expand students their

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

ELECTIONS

rights as university stakeholders. There are almost 19,000 Carolinians and only a small fraction can benefit from the SSC’s services. I believe SPP can break the wall by expanding further opportunities for the students by redesigning the current SSC system. What are the issues within the university that you seek to tackle and why? Power in the SSC is concentrated only by a select few of “student leaders.” These student leaders already have a project in mind without actually consulting the students. There is no student empowerment because students are cut off from the decision making process. The key to student empowerment--the very foundation of SPP--is to distribute power. We can empower the collegiate, co-curricular and extra-curricular organizations by sharing SSC resources with them, something that has not yet been done. As a representative of the Carolinian populace and a member of the youth sector, how do you plan to contribute to greater national awareness? We encouraged our councilors to draft platforms that are in line with their advocacies. We have a slate that vanguards the welfare of the nation’s progress and social awareness. Unfortunately, one voice is not powerful enough to change a nation. That is why the involvement of the school to these issues must be representative by the Carolinian community. In order to do so, the first step to this endeavor is to unite the Carolinians to raise their social awareness for us to have a united concern for our country’s future which can be achieved by the different platforms of SPP such as Social Issues Awareness, Donate and Take Action, Carolinian Operation Calamity, Student Making Impact to the Lives of the Elderly and much more. This world is too vast for one person and that’s why a community is strong enough to empower different advocacies. What can your party offer to the Carolinian students? SPP offers various platforms, which are drawn from the personal advocacies of our 16 candidates for councilors. SPP also offers 16 councilors who are responsible, empowered, and dedicated. 16 highly qualified candidates who are driven to serve the entire student body. And these people are focused on the welfare of the students and are not running for personal or political gain. Aside from organizing events and seminars, what else can your party do for the student body? SPP envisions an SSC that is truly collaborative, an SSC that embraces diversity, an SSC that embraces a multitude of ideas – ideas that will bring out true Carolinian values. We believe that leadership is not one-dimensional, that through collaboration, we can make great things happen. It is only through collaboration with all sectors in this university that we can move forward. We offer a brand of leadership that is strong, unbiased and one that brings out the leader in each and every one of is. This is our platform. This is our solution.

Carl Anthony Albaño President

How will your party work together with other parties after the election? Our candidates are not driven for personal or political gain. Therefore, we are all willing to collaborate with other parties and we are more that willing to listen and understand their perspectives and ideas as long as it is for the good. How will you enforce accountability among your party councilors if ever they win? (Examples: poor academic performance, inactivity within the council, invalid academic status, etc.) SPP believes that the challenge here is not enforcing accountability because our councilors are empowered and dedicated to work because of their personal advocacies which push them to work whatever circumstances there may be. SPP believes that the greater challenge is guidance and having worked for the SSC for a year, I believe that is very possible to lead them to the way where their advocacies and platforms will be achieved. Short message for our Fellow Carolinians Empowered Carolinians, join us in our one united fight in making the Supreme Student Council SUPREME again. Let us continue to fight in improving the system we are in by pushing for unity and genuine student empowerment for all students in the university. Let us push for genuine projects that seek emphasis on the long term growth of the student body. We urge each and every Carolinian to vote. Please do vote for the leaders who envisions for change as much as you do. In SPP, your stories are definitely our stories. Your dreams are definitely our dreams and your fight is definitely our fight! TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

Andrew Alcantara Vice-President

ELECTIONS

COUNCILORS

6 Christian Albaño

7 Denise Albarina

9 Hazel Bagonoc

13 Brianne Borling

19 Talens Cubillan

25 Sweet Guibelondo

30 Jahannah Lim

35 Scarlett Mapa

44 Princess Pepito

45 Philip Perez

47 Gleanzzy Reyes

48 Tristom Romero

49 Geraldyn Ong See

50 Shela Seguisabal

55 Krisha Viado

56 Farres Yalung 43

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S T A N D

From the Bunzel Lobby to the round tables near the quadrangle, the need for the students to stand up and take an active role screams in the silence of the heart of every Carolinian. It was the battle cry of students who chose the path less traveled – that of resistance. The Student Alliance for Nationalism and Democracy was forged from the fires of people’s resistance to Martial Law. It was established in 1982 after years of struggle to defend and promote the democratic rights of the students and the Filipino people. It joined the nationwide campaign for the re-establishment of the student councils, publications and organizations, which had been widely successful. Over the past 34 years, it is at the forefront in the fight against tuition and other school fees increases, unjust and unreasonable school policies and championed the struggle of other sectors in the society. Today it stands as a testament to the immense strength of collective action. The need for student activism is not passé nor irrelevant, since even to this day, students are still being deprived of their basic liberties and violated of their democratic rights. Student leaders must first and foremost acknowledge the problem and move together with the students in crafting a solution. Those who deny this have little faith in the studentry. The history of STAND is more than just a narrative of stories and years; rather it should also serve as an abundant source of lessons as we move forward. It is our duty to carry out the task in defending the rights and welfare of the students. This is our birthright. To stand up for the students is not just a responsibility but also an education in itself as it teaches its members to be assertive and firm. In the process of defending the students, members of STAND become better friends tested in time and struggle. At the end of the day, they become the happiest of all people knowing that as they leave the gates, they have chosen a life greater than their own existence – that of the students and the Filipino people. It firmly believes that the Carolinians are brave students and they deserve brave leaders. From the same fire it was forged to the same fire it will be strengthened, STAND will continue to serve the students and serve the people. PLATFORMS Protection of Student Rights: Democratization and Involvement Pakighinabi: ‘Storya ta Carolinian! This is one of the means through which we can channel our grievances and suggestions to the proper authority for immediate redress and response. A multi-sectoral student dialogue which includes the faculty, administration and the non-teaching personnel. Student Policies on Track (S.P.O.T) Democratization demands that all processes be open to all stakeholders. Students should be consulted before the implementation of a school policy. One of the highlights of this program is a review of the existing school policies. Fees Watch This is now on its second year of successful implementation. For its third year, it will continue and intensify its campaign of transparency, accountability and ultimately the refund or scrapping of unjust school fees. Safety, Security and Health Program A whole year program that seeks to promote the holistic development of the Carolinian student body through an assessment of our campus security and safety, and promotion of our physical health through the maximization and improvement of existing services such as the extension of clinic hours, and installation of first aid corners.

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

S.O Subsidy The Supreme Student Council must be able to extend its help to student organizations especially those with few members and unrecognized by the University through giving financial assistance for their programs and activities. This is to uphold our democratic right to organization. Promotion of Student Welfare: Carolinian Freedom and Identity LGBTQandYou: Gender Agenda An all-year round of program designed to attain a discrimination-free academic environment through Gender Help Desk and Gender Committee composed of all sectors in the University Gadja A night of Carolinian pride and merrymaking through the showcase of homegrown talents. E.D. Fest A social awareness movement hopping from one college to the other that deals with relevant issues to promote a critical Carolinian student body. Environmental Program: C2E The care for the environment should be everyone’s advocacy and primary responsibility. This should be a broader and long-term movement starting from environmental issues within our campus extending to the community beyond the University. Sporty Caloy A sports program which includes a D-League for athletic students and Sports Clinic for enthusiasts. This also features building a network of support for the University varsity teams during inter-school competitions Foster solidarity among other sectors: Unity and advocacy Basic Masses Integration with the Marginalized Sectors Learning goes beyond the confines of the academe. We must be able to immerse ourselves in order to learn from the life and struggles of various sectors and ultimately contribute to the advancement of their legitimate demands. Why should the student body vote for you? In STAND, everything we do is rooted in the masses because understanding the masses is the only way to understand what we want for the future. This means that we link the problems within the university to the bigger picture and this is how we cater to the needs of every Filipino. What are the issues within the university that you seek to tackle and why? There are two immediate problems we would like to solve. Firstly, the university needs to have a proper grievance system for students. Secondly, it is time we reevaluate all the policies within the university and consult the students regarding how effective or how reasonable these policies are. But more than that, we have to tackle the root cause of the problem by addressing the characteristics of the current Philippine educational System-- how it is commercialized, repressive and colonial in nature. This is important because this is the only way to be objective and scientific when creating a solution. As a representative of the Carolinian populace and a member of the youth sector, how do you plan to contribute to greater national awareness? Being the only progressive political party in the university, STAND contributes to national awareness by showing

ELECTIONS

students the importance of progressive principles. With the upcoming national elections, progressive values teach us how to vote for candidates who not only represent us best on an individual level but who can represent the masses and the marginalized sectors of society. A progressive narrative challenges us to think beyond ourselves and gives students the avenue to link back to society as a whole. What can your party offer to the Carolinian students? For 34 years, STAND has always been at the forefront of protecting student’s rights, promoting student’s welfare, and establishing(?) solidarity with other sectors. That last principle is what sets STAND apart from the rest -- we participate in movements even outside of USC. We participate in the efforts of interest groups like Kabataan Partylist, Gabriela, National Union of Students of the Philippines, to name a few. We are the sum of the students’ advocacies and interests, things that make them students, student-leaders, and actual changemakers. Aside from organizing events and seminars, what else can your party do for the student body?

Kerinna Atillo President

We have always believed that there is so much untapped potential in USC. We know that students have their own advocacies and interests, but we want them to know that they can use these advocacies and interests to contribute to the student movement and participate in nation building, through creating or joining orgs for example. We want to establish the link between interests and nation building through our platforms. For example, the Educational Discussion fest helps you become more aware about social issues, and once these social issues drive you to ask the important questions, you will be able to identify which things you feel passionate about, which changes you want to make. How will your party work together with other parties after the election? All three parties have different and unique characteristics but we all have a common goal, and that’s to deliver what is best for USC. Sure, maybe we have different means and believe in specific principles, but we exist because the students exist. For as long as the students exist, we will always do our best to deliver what they want us to deliver. After all, they are the reason why our parties and principles exist. They are our common thread. How will you enforce accountability among your party councilors if ever they win? (Examples: poor academic performance, inactivity within the council, invalid academic status, etc.)

Isabella Villarojo Vice-President

We will always bring up the reminder that we are students before we are student-leaders. Sure, we participate in advocacies larger than our own existence, and we have always promised to keep the student movement alive, but being a student, practicing in our different academic fields, is our biggest contribution to the student movement. But in the event that our councilors do deviate from our principles by forgetting their academic responsibilities, we will be brave enough to call them out on it and give them points of improvement. STAND is and has always been a collective, and we will always look out for each other so we can all participate in something larger than our own existence. Short message to our Fellow Carolinians We, Carolinians are brave students and we deserve brave leaders! Stand for CHANGE, means the advancement of pro-student and propeople agenda. STAND for Change, means a genuine, assertive and nationalist brand of student-leadership. Join us in standing for the students and the Filipino people! TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

ELECTIONS

COUNCILORS 2 Cherubim Acaylar

4 Rise Adriatico

5 Rucin Agapay

8 Vince Alloso

12 Denise Bongalon

16 Ejay Co

17 Angelo Cordova

18 John Cortez

20 Mel Ebo

21 Kenn Etang

23 Shawn Go

24 Jhyku Godinez

27 John Ibones

28 Karlo Jarina

39 Democrito Ngujo III

40 Jefferson Ombe

53 Jeremiah Valero

54 Johanna Veloso

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

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Now on its 28th year, TINGOG Carolinian was formed in 1988 when student leaders came together to provide an alternative to the extreme left-leaning campus politics of the time. Clearly, a paradigm shift was in order.

such as ramps and cubicles that are beneficial to you and to PWDs, and to create signage that can be understood by all, regardless of race, language, gender. It promotes equality and unity in diversity.

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 latter part of the decade, both within the university and throughout society at large, where students deserved a more positive, proactive, constructive and participatory approach to campus politics.

Thought Summit This platform seeks to create a network among graduating Carolinians and the companies and opportunities that await them after graduation through meetings and summits. It also aims to create a web platform that will provide development, academic and employment opportunities exclusively for Carolinians.

TINGOG upholds and asserts core principles that unite the party’s member-leaders. The party believes in Active NonViolence as the means to dismantle oppressive social structures, and to build above these ruins a truly humane society worthy of the dignity of a person, or Authentic Humanism. PINK, the party color, represents Active Non-Violence, the heart of TINGOG’s core principles. TINGOG also upholds Filipino Nationalism in a Pro-People democracy that is based on equality and genuine participation of all. Servant Leadership and Environmental Stewardship complete TINGOG’s core values. Indeed, as a campus party, TINGOG has evolved to become a premier leadership training organization in a rapidly changing world. Finally, TINGOG believes that meaningful national change starts from within, in the confines of the university, amongst the Carolinian studentry, where TINGOG’s pro-student and democratic leadership is firmly rooted. We call this “Student First.” We commit to provide Student Assistance, to promote Student Development, and to ensure Student Empowerment… to always put the STUDENT FIRST! This year, TINGOG Carolinian puts forward a team of leaders all set to realize the party’s vision of 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. Make TINGOG Your Voice! Make TINGOG Your Choice! Platforms Constantly innovating, TINGOG Carolinian offers solution-based, novel programs of action aimed to proactively address the needs of the Carolinian community: Magna Carta of Students’ Rights Cognizant to this, TINGOG committed to begin the long and difficult process to finally establish a USC Magna Carta for Student’s Rights and Welfare. We have gone far since a working draft has finally been crafted by the Carolinians. The final phase is to secure the implementation of the Magna Carta. This year, TINGOG endeavors to: 1) create a Task Force Students Rights and Welfare (STRAW) to monitor the implementation of the charter; and 2) ensure the institutionalization of the Seat of the Student Representative in USC’s Council of Chairs and Council of Deans. AbtikPinoy This program promotes awareness on pressing social issues within and outside the USC community, as well as political issues such as corruption, unfinished government projects, new proposed laws and more. This shall be materialized through artistic presentation, interactive forum, and a dialogue which aims to exercise our freedom of expression and right to be informed. USC Keep In Touch (KIT) This program provides a timely and relevant information dissemination system, hassle-free electronic collection of grievances, and student dialogues between SSC and the administration, and the SSC to the students. Proactive Utility Universal Design (PUUD) PUUD aims to create facilities that are universal; that is, it can be used and understood by all. It also targets to create facilities

ONE USC A program that aims to culturally integrate international students into Carolinian society to give them a voice and elicit active participation in student affairs by organizing them into a collective body with a representative, introducing food inclusivity in the campus canteens, and generating engaging activities that will open avenues for interaction between international and local students. Warriors Week It is a week-long celebration of Carolinian pride and identity on the first week of classes, through pep rallies and various events which will encourage Carolinians to transcend excellence beyond the walls of the classroom. Warriors’ Run It is the university’s most successful run that annually gathers Carolinians – students, faculty, the administration and the alumni – to run together as Warriors, strengthening and promoting our collective pride and identity while encouraging healthy lifestyles. Innovation Convention (InnovCon) It serves as an avenue for Carolinians to share their ideas, inventions and innovations through fairs and exhibits. Companies and institutions will be invited to this event. Carolinians with projects in mind but lack the opportunity to have them implemented are welcome and are given the chance to showcase their ideas and plans. Carolinian Summit The Carolinian Summit is a 2-day comprehensive leadership training program that empowers students to be effective leaders. Building on the success of the previous Student Organization Summit started nearly two decades ago and championed throughout the years by TINGOG, the Carolinian Summit at present fosters more inclusivity and opens leadership training opportunities to more and more Carolinians. Youth Engaging in Spirituality (YES) Anchored on TINGOG’s principles of authentic humanism, this platform is an avenue for reflection and spiritual fulfillment open to all Carolinians of different religions. This offers different spiritual projects such as Inter-Faith Dialogue, where we get to know insights from different religious denominations, and University Youth Day, a day to celebrate and witness the togetherness of Carolinian spirituality. Student Ecological Movement (STEM) STEM is an environmental advocacy program that promotes awareness and concern for pressing issues like climate change, conservation of natural heritage, animal rights, clean and renewable energy, et. al, through various events catered for the Carolinians.

T I N G O G

Why should the student body vote for you? Experience. This year, TINGOG Carolinian offers candidates that have unique perspective of being in both an extra- and co-curricular organization. We have gained a lot of experience in organizing different projects and working with people with diverse personalities and, sometimes, even conflicting temperaments. Vision. Our vision is to have a relevant SSC that is responsive to our needs now and a student council that looks ahead to the future. We believe in an inclusive SSC, in a MORE inclusive SSC—and this can only be achieved through constitutional reform. Concrete platforms. Our platforms are centered on the policy that students are always first priority.

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

ELECTIONS

What are the issues within the university that you seek to tackle and why? Inconsistent implementation of our school policies. Hopefully we can enforce the Magna Carta of Students’ Rights and actively push for the review and revision of our outdated (and restrictive) Student Manual to ensure that these issues (and more) are finally addressed. As a representative of the Carolinian populace and a member of the youth sector, how do you plan to contribute to greater national awareness? Through a TINGOG-initiated project called AbtikPinoy, one of our specific programs of action that seeks to elevate the level of discourse within USC as regards to the burning issues that confront the nation and our people. What can your party offer to the Carolinian students? For 28 years TINGOG Carolinian has been at the forefront of serving the Carolinians, with student assistance, development and empowerment. We have always been vanguards of students’ rights and welfare. We continue to address the issues by presenting you concrete platforms that seek to resolve the different issues students in our university are now facing. TINGOG Carolinian has always put the students first. Aside from organizing events and seminars, what else can your party do for the student body? As the vanguards of students’ right and welfare, we have the Magna Carta of Students’ Rights. The Magna Carta of Student’s Rights hopes to address the recurring issue of the inconsistent implementation of our school policies. For over two decades, student leaders in USC and in other schools have dreamed of a Magna Carta, and we’ve gone a long way, with the help of various student leaders from different student organizations, and we are very close to having it approved by the Administration. We must all fight to make sure it is approved and implemented. How will your party work together with other parties after the election? TINGOG, SPP, and STAND are all here for the same reason, it is for the students. Despite the differences in the principles of the parties, in our ways and means, I believe that we can work hand in hand to serve the Carolinian community. I don’t see why we cannot be friends after the election. In fact, our TINGOG alumni share how they are friends with alumni from the other party.

Bret Balbuena President

How will you enforce accountability among your party councilors if ever they win? (Examples: poor academic performance, inactivity within the council, invalid academic status, etc.) TINGOG Carolinian has maintained a culture of policing our own ranks. When one of our members incurs a deficiency or under-performs, the party is always the first to reprimand and/or talk about the problem with the member involved, and to propose a solution. Through this internal mechanism, we have maintained the excellence that TINGOG Carolinian has given the students for the past 28 years. Furthermore, TINGOG Carolinian candidates are hand-picked leaders whose passion is to serve the Carolinian community. We have the track-record and experience. The candidates are competent and will deliver. Short message to our Fellow Carolinians Fellow Carolinians, together, let’s create a more responsive, proactive and inclusive SSC. With TINGOG JD and Bret, WE ARE ALL SET! Vote straight for the party that truly delivers. Vote straight, vote wisely, vote for the TINGOG Carolinian Party. Make TINGOG Your Voice, Make TINGOG Your Choice! TC

Janet Abines Vice-President

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

ELECTIONS

COUNCILORS 1 Anne Aballe

3 Jamil Adiong

10 Maurice Baguio

11 Jade Betito

14 Deodatus Burgos

15 Micah Canaleja

22 Michole Flores

26 Norch Honoridez

29 Dorothie Lazala

30 Joelia Lee Yu

31 Dhanica Lim

33 Rainiel Llauderes

34 Dianna Manguling

36 Azenith Mendaros

37 Antonio Mendoza

38 Vincent Montejo

41 Janlord Orillosa

42 Kristian Pajanonot

43 Hazel Parmes

51 Honey Tagalog

52 Shannen Tan 49

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

Milestones and

Everything

Between

Paolo Perez Photographs by Angelo Nico Daroy, Carmelle Gacasan, Christine Suson, Jasper Ramirez, Jessa Pedrola, June Escudero, and Wednesday Abelgas

“We are the sum total of our experiences.” –Wayne Dyer, Jean Paul Sartre and many others

We’re less than three months into 2016, and I have a question for everyone: How are those New Year’s Resolutions going for all of you? Have you fallen prey to the dreaded “fitness cliff”, or are you one of those lucky few who’ve made great strides so far and show no sign of stopping? Do you even remember what you promised yourself on the night of Dec. 31? If not, don’t worry. I understand completely if your resolve has slipped. The amount of emphasis we place on the first and last days of the year far outweighs the other 364. There’s simply something poetic about leaving all of our mistakes and baggage in the past and starting with a clean slate. When better to start than the first day of January? Our infatuation with New Year’s resolutions and the ephemeral commitment to change that comes with them is just another manifestation of how much importance we place on milestones. It’s the same reason that #ThrowbackThursday and its derivatives are one of the most enduring trends of our time. Although many would scoff at our attachment to hashtags and social media, they have quickly ingrained themselves as a fact of our generation: the Millennials, which we are, of course, referred to both sarcastically and affectionately in equal measure. Still, for all the negative connotations the word entails, our position in the turn of the millennium has given us a front-row perspective on some of the most important events and innovations not only of our time, but of human history. From the legalization of same-sex marriage last year to the ongoing efforts to send humans to Mars, there’s a lot more to remember our generation for than its odd fascination with selfies.

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

Another funny thing about today’s society is that, for all the grumbling we do about math and numbers, the amount of importance we place on them cannot be denied. I turn 18 one week from writing this, which, by most standards, makes me an adult. Some who know me might say that I’ve already earned that on my own merit. Others, by the same criteria, will tell me that I have a long way to go. Others still might say the same thing, but not through any fault of my own — I simply have to wait another three years before I can truly be considered an “adult”. We tend to remember these things as singular points in time, but it’s the befores, afters, and in-betweens that truly shape us. While I acknowledge the symbolism of my entry into adulthood, I believe that the transition itself began long ago and do not expect it to end on my 18th birthday. Here lies an interesting dynamic. Some of humanity’s most major achievements are earned through blood, sweat and tears and considered major breakthroughs in their respective fields. However, rites of passage and coming-of-age traditions are more repeated than invented, and are subsequently less impressive than, say, the splitting of the atom. When we celebrate birthdays, we do so with cake and an appropriate number of candles. When our friends get married, we let the champagne flow and the doves fly. When we graduate, we show off diplomas and throw caps in the air. That’s simply the way it is. Such traditions are time-honored and set like concrete, and we will certainly not be among the last people to graduate or marry. What our personal milestones lack in grandeur and originality, however, they make up for in intimacy, maturity and emotion. The passage of time is, as xkcd author Randall Munroe points out, literally the most predictable thing in the universe, but that does not stop it from being one of the most distressing. Pokémon turns 20 this year. The date of The Little Mermaid’s premiere is now closer to the moon landing than the present day. We often employ these factoids to make each other feel old, and as long as time passes and humanity continues to create, we will never run out of them. In a way, the lofty heights of times gone by become their own expiration date. Our own achievements and memories, though less grand, secure us in time as history continues to leave us behind. Science will move on, with medicine following closely in its footsteps. Art moves and changes almost organically, bursting at the seams with new trends and concepts every day. People, however, will always get older, always fall in love, and always move forward to explore their place in the world around them. The dichotomy forged by societal versus personal milestones means that it’s difficult to perceive them side-by-side in the same context, by virtue of the sheer difference in scale and magnitude that they effect. However, in trying to make a name for ourselves in history, we tend to forget that it’s very, very big and only growing by the second. No matter our impact on the world, our names and achievements will almost certainly be forgotten by the next group of millennials when the year 3000 rolls around, let alone our wedding days or the births of our children. Trying to circumvent that is futile, and, unless your name is Isaac Newton or Ludwig van Beethoven, the best you can hope for will most likely be your name in a textbook somewhere. Thinking about it from that perspective, it doesn’t seem like such a bad deal to live life, grow old and be happy, just like the rest of us. So yes, unless we’re very lucky, our lives will probably amount to very little. Really, though, it doesn’t matter. The ways we are remembered are our successors’ business. The moments, people and things that we remember most are ours. TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

OPINION

Science is Just Baby-making, And Here’s Why! Frederick Head and Cesar Carlos Heyrosa Illustration by Shari Llamis

“That’s one small step for [a] man, one giant leap for humankind, and one supposed waste of time and tax money for those who can’t understand and for those refuse to understand.” —Not Neil Armstrong, not a controversial cyclist, not 1969

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

OPINION

Just as 2015 was beginning to end, four more elements were added to the periodic table. This, of course, was a moment of celebration for the scientific community and for book publishers, who get extra for putting something in supposedly empty boxes. Majority of those outside such community, however, have an entirely different opinion: “So what?” Worse, though, is, “What’s the use of that? Some of my tax goes to this useless exercise, and I’m not getting anything at all. I hope everyone in the scientific community gets cancer for wasting my hard-earned money.” It’s downright annoying, to be honest. Every darn time someone goes, “Eureka!” someone has to respond, “Boo! Die!” Every. Darn. Time. The Church called Nicolaus Copernicus a heretic for rooting for heliocentrism. It wouldn’t even be surprising if someone must have called Isaac Newton cuckoo for developing a branch of mathematics just to support his theories. Heck, some cavemen must have thought that diarrhea feels a zillion times better than cooking meat when someone first made fire. Now, here’s the deal. What some people do not understand is that scientific discoveries are not a wee bit different from babies — cute, cuddly and — let’s be honest here — practically useless when they get out of that black hole of flesh and blood. No doctor would say, “I need someone to discover the cure for cancer. Better make a baby for that.” No writer would say, “I need a new generation to read my awesome book. Better make a baby for that.” No drug lord would say, “I need a lawyer should my business go messy. Better make a baby for that.” Babies are made because, at the very least, it’s fun and fascinating to do so. A few people make babies plainly out of boredom and nothing at all while others find it pretty addictive. Perhaps Newton was bored when he developed calculus as a tool to explain how things move and didn’t really think such tool would be used in medicine, population studies, economics and terrorizing innocent university students. Maybe Copernicus got so jaded playing tag that he thought that it’d make much more sense if the Earth were going around the Sun. Who the heck would’ve known that this was an idea that actually drove us a step forward toward the scientific revolution? You know? That era without which we’d be stuck in a horrible world without the most important things like the Internet and Star Wars? Not to mention we’ve got no inkling about what that human who first made fire was thinking. “I’ll just passionately rub these two hard stones till things get pretty hot.” Sparks begin flying, and voila! Fire! Cooked meat! The Industrial Revolution! Most importantly, however, making babies, in its most sentimental value, is an expression of love — a bid to continue one’s legacy in a world where many would object such carnal act. Scientists and engineers would just give it their all, penetrating the minds of the ignorant, hoping that this new baby is indeed a new hope. We’ve got to do our share too. Jesus aside, we can’t expect a newborn child to be a revolutionary when it leaves that black hole of flesh and blood. We’ve got to study that baby. We’ve got to make that baby grow. We’ve got to nurture and love that baby. That’s when the magic probably happens. It’s horrible that just because a few scientific jargons are beyond our limited ability to think, we think that one big step forward is just a false hope. Who are we to say that scientific baby-making is a waste of time and tax money? We wouldn’t be where we are right now — with our smartphones, Facebook accounts and electric light, for that matter — without the blood, sweat and tears of scientists and their babies. With that, really, who the heck are we to complain? P.S. We hope you’ll bear with us because we might go full scientific jargon in the next paragraph. We know. We’re nerds. As for the four newly discovered elements, yes, they’re cute, cuddly and practically useless as of now — like babies. However, their discovery brings us closer to the near-legendary “island of stability”, where heavier heavy metals become more stable and thus exist for more than a fraction of a fraction of a fraction of a second. These heavier heavy metals may be more useful, but they need to be discovered first. To get us there, we have to play with the unstable babies like Elements 113, 115, 117 and 118. TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

PAINTING OUR BROWN GIRLS WHITE: The Culture of Colorism in the Philippines Zarah Majam White skin plus long nose plus straight hair — the standard of beauty in the Philippines has a formula. Despite this hasty generalization, it is a given that these three factors constitute what we Filipinos believe is the epitome of beauty. We have cultivated a culture that shames people with dark skin, immediately associating them with blue-collared occupations and categorizing them as ugly. Margaret Hunter, a professor of sociology at Mills College in Oakland, California, describes colorism as the practice of discrimination wherein people of a darker skin color are placed at a disadvantage over their light-skinned counterparts. This type of prejudice proves to be more specific than general racism, as it concentrates on people of the same race. It is prevalent in different regions of the world; however, acknowledging colorism in the Philippines is not so common. It is a topic often discussed in the black community, but less so in Asia, and is in fact a cultural issue that needs to be addressed. Cultural imperialism has contributed to the birth of colorism in the Philippines. However, it is also safe to assume that this mentality is a side-effect of Spanish and American colonialism. It has been a growing trend in Asian countries to promote the value of possessing white skin. This trend eventually became a commodity in the field of cosmetics, giving birth to a plethora of whitening products. It has almost become the norm to see at least one or two commercials about whitening products on local television, further emphasizing how

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

the media embraces this culture. Celebrities who naturally have dark skin are used as ambassadors to depict the effectiveness of these products, thus encouraging the masses and especially women of color that it is possible to achieve a lighter skin tone. This stigma cultivates the idea that white skin means more beauty and more opportunities. The irony clearly exists; Filipinos naturally possess brown skin but go to extremes to make sure we look less and less Pinoy, as looking like a “typical” Filipino is not considered beautiful. It is problematic that as a culture, we do not glorify the “typical” Filipino look. The more society embraces this beauty standard, the easier it is for women of color to hate the skin they were born in. The culture in the Philippines promotes dark skin only when it is dubbed useful or edgy, which is a problem in itself. The color of a person’s skin does not need to be a fashion statement in order for it to be accepted in society. It is easy to link dark skin with other Pinoy features that do not fall under the category of “beautiful” in today’s society, such as having kinky hair and a wide nose. These “typical” Pinoy features eventually paved the way to promoting hair-straightening products and cosmetic surgeries. As a society, it is difficult for us to embrace these features and categorize them as beautiful. The more anglicized a person looks, the more value they possess.

FEATURE

Photographs by Carmelle Gacasan & Christine Suson

By patronizing white features in contrast to Pinoy features, this entails that we see the Western culture as something superior to our own culture. We have been greatly influenced to believe that Pinoy features are only beautiful if they are idealistically enhanced. There is an evident lack of representation and diversity in Philippine media. The show business industry in the Philippines has constantly been portraying characters with kayumanggi skin as ugly or unlovable. With TV shows like Mirabella, where the already-white-skinned Julia Baretto is transformed into a character with skin as brown as a tree, it’s difficult to believe that modern day society is ready to accept that brown skin also equates to beauty. The cover of Preview magazine’s April 2008 issue depicted four well-known — and naturally white — celebrities covered in brown foundation. This promotes the idea that brown skin is only praised when it is on white people. In order for women of color to feel accepted, they must be represented well and not as a fashion statement. Representation is one of the most influential mediums in a society. If we look at celebrities in the Philippine setting, it is noticeable that beauty is represented almost exclusively by women who are naturally white. Young girls who cannot identify with this beauty standard constantly deal with insecurity and bullying from their peers. How many of us has had that friend — or are that friend — that got ridiculed

for having dark skin? It is way overdue that as a society, we should strive harder to reform this stigma. It is important that we acknowledge that colorism exists in the Philippines. We cannot progress as a nation if we cannot embrace the skin we were born in. How can we represent our country in the sociopolitical-economical playing field if we refuse to patronize our natural features? We cannot find a solution if we refuse to accept that this problem exists. This is not a call to insult men and women who hold a lighter skin color; this is to ask them to be part of the fight in acknowledging that the problem is there. Acknowledging that colorism exists is necessary. By insinuating that light skin is more beautiful is counterproductive and divisive. By not acknowledging its existence, this only perpetuates the problem and hinders progression. Painting our brown girls white goes beyond aesthetic. This is about being proud of the roots we were born in. This is about encouraging diversity in the industry. This is about proper representation in media and in society. It is time we embrace the “typical” Pinoy features and reform the standard of beauty in the Philippines. TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

PIA:

A PLANET OF HATS Ynaro San Juan

Illustration by RK Tiu

By definition, utopia is a hypothetical place or state where all things that exist are perfect. It can refer to either communities that try to form super-societies in real life or imaginary perfect societies that exist in science fiction. Though the creation of an ideal society has been attempted for the longest of time by different people with different views of perfection, none have so far been able to realize their dream of utopia. This is not surprising: A utopia can exist only as an ideality. Anyplace built purely out of wonder and dreams and inhabited by the best of mankind cannot exist in the real world. In fact, the word utopia is a pun in itself, taking the Greek words eutopia for “good place” and outopia for “no place”, and combining them to create an idea of a place or state that no human will be able to attain. In spite of, or rather, because of its unattainable nature, the idea of utopia has continued to persist in human belief and myths as mystical places like heaven, paradise or the kingdom of God — all of which are allusions to man’s dream of a visionary society. Of course, creating an ideal society is only as easy as it sounds. Logically, every human should desire the security and comfort that only a utopia can provide. Therefore, every human would work willfully in cooperation with one another to attain his dream of the perfect civilization, correct? Wrong. First of all, in order to achieve even the skeletal frame of a utopia, the people living in society should come to a general consensus. Anyone who has ever tried to get an entire community to see eye-to-eye all the time and agree with each other 100 percent in all things will realize how futile a task that is. In order to attain some semblance of utopia, man must think like a collective. This cannot happen because every community is a

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

group of individuals rather than a hive mind. No matter how many people in a community will try to conform, there will always be some rogue elements in society; no one can see eye-to-eye with each other all the time. In reality, it is actually much easier to get people to agree with what is wrong with a place than the contrary. In fiction, these utopias are generally used in social commentaries, political satires or just plain drama. The perfections seen in imaginary utopias are there to point out the imperfections in real-life society. In these stories, the flawlessness is revealed to be only superficial, and the shining utopia is unmasked to actually be a dystopia underneath. An example would be William F. Nolan and George Clayton Johnson’s novel Logan’s Run in which the society of the Domed City is a utopia for all its inhabitants but harbors a dark secret. The stinger is that once a citizen of the city turns 30 years old, they are rounded up for “rebirth” and promptly eliminated for the “greater good” of their society. These false utopian settings actually tend to center around a certain theme: We have autocratic utopias, libertarian utopias, progressive utopias, communal utopias, utopias centered around technology or religion, yet there always exists a malcontent crowd that will clamor on about rather dying than living in perfection. A popular example would be George Orwell’s 1984. Here, Orwell wrote about the fictional society of Oceania that had claimed to have achieved total security and social equality, but at the cost of individuality and people’s personal freedoms. Even then, the whole thing about social equality was a lie, and Oceania

existed in a state of perpetual war. Orwell’s book showcases a grim example of a utopia gone wrong, while at the same time not so subtly shoving forth a lesson about extreme nationalism, surveillance and censorship, and thus the utopia falls down. Another more modern example would be the 2015 movie Tomorrowland. In the film, the city of Tomorrowland is a classic example of a shining metropolis that exists outside of space-time, built by the best and brightest of humanity, and is a social, cultural and technological super-state in secret. Of course like most utopias, it all goes sour quickly after a few unsavory details about the city come to light. The rulers of Tomorrowland banish anyone who does not conform to their ways or who they believe is a threat, back to Earth, and the inhabitants — at the very best, the leaders — look down on the people of Earth as backward primitives. These all show that the transition of a utopia into a dystopia will most likely be when the inevitable suppression of individuality begins. Mankind’s ego prevents people from getting along with each other all the time. Leadership in utopias will find it necessary to squash individuating personalities and force people to conform in order to maintain balance in society. Even in individualistic utopias, the supposedly individualistic citizens who compose the perfect society tend to agree on everything — political, social or otherwise, or at the very least tend to act in very similar fashion to one another. Their society becomes what is called “a planet of hats”, a society of individuals indistinguishable from one another. TC

FEATURE

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

LITERARY

PAASA

O PAG-ASA? Paolo Louis Manghihilot Illustration by Xene Cabahug

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

LITERARY

Ang kabataan ay pag-asa ng bayan. Totoo nga ba? Nagkamali ba ng akala si Rizal na iasa ang kapalaran ng inang bayan sa mga kabataan at hindi sa iba? Sila na nga ba ang magpapatuloy sa laban para sa bayan o sila ba ang magtutulong-tulong upang tuluyang bumagsak ang sanbayanan? Sila na nga ba ang magtatayo ng bandera ng nasyonalismo at patriotismo na untiunting nawawala sa sanlupaan? Sila na nga ba ang magwawaksi sa umiiral na sakit ng lipunan? Ang kabataan ay paasa ng bayan. Mga kabataang walang pakialam sa mundo. Kung may pakialam man, sa mga mabababaw na bagay pa sila aktibo’t ganadong-ganado. Mga kabataang daig pa ang pwet ng manok sa kakareklamo sa gobyerno, wala namang ginagawang matitino. Mga kabataang walang-pakundangang lumalabag sa mga batas. Walang isip kung bakit pataas ng pataas ang krimen. Mga kabataang alak at sigarilyo lang ang inaatupag. Kahit pagpasok sa paaralan hirap pang magsipag. Mga kabataang sarili lang ang iniisip. Anak ng anak. Hithit ng hithit. Lutang na lutang ang isipan. Kailanman hindi iniisip ang kinabukasan. Sila ang mga kabataang hindi dapat tularan. Sila ang dilim na marahang tinatabunan ang malilit na ilaw upang ito’y tuluyang maligaw. Tayo ang mga kabataan ng bayan. Huwag palilinlang. Buksan ang iyong mga mata. Hindi ka na bata. Saan ka nabibilang? Ikaw ba’y isang paasa o pag-asa? TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

Where Art Thou? Josemaria Marcelo Ouano Illustration by Mar “Ram” Eway

I wonder if they will find The discarded works of you and I Hidden by dust, decay and grime For they too were once alive All the paintings that need love Torn, forgotten and left to rot Oh, frustration and joy The emotions I have drawn Will you ever see The meaning of my creation Or will you find nothing at all Despite my frantic attempts? My half written verses Of songs that will never be The unsung melodies, That are in my memory Damn it all, this is my art And these are my thoughts How I wish that you Passing by me could see Breathe it all in and you will find The struggle of my craft How I once wished to succeed Now remains in my dreams

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

LITERARY

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

AN OPEN LETTER TO PIA WURTZBACH

From Someone Who Belongs to the So-Called One Percent Miriam Burlaos

Illustration by Justine Bacareza

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

Dear Pia, You made the whole nation proud when after four decades, you, a Filipina, finally won the Miss Universe title. Backed by rigorous preparation, a genuine love for humanity and hard work, you have proven yourself worthy of the crown. It was a controversial win, of course, sparking several discussions and mixed reactions from people on social media. I, along with the millions of Filipinos rooting for you, did not have second thoughts about your success. I admit, however, that I find it disturbing that you do not see any problem at all with the US military presence in the Philippines. This letter is not, in any way, written to urge you to change your views regarding the Enhanced Defense Cooperative Agreement. As you said, the majority of Filipinos are pro-American, but I do hope you could lend an ear to those belonging to the minority and, in turn, understand why anyone should go against US militarization. We do recognize the stance that the EDCA may help us defend and protect what is rightfully ours. This is with regard to China and its territorial controversy with the Philippines over the West Philippine Sea. While it is true that the military presence of the US will help modernize and improve our military defense, this does not guarantee that America will back us up once problems with China arises. I hope that you remember what happened in 1995 and 2012, when Mischief Reef and Scarborough Shoal, respectively, were both taken over by China and your beloved America offered no support for the Philippines. Until now, with the EDCA in progress and being declared constitutional by the Supreme Court, US President Barack Obama has shown no assurance of military support or reinforcement. At the end of the day, Miss Pia, our territories are ours to fight for. Although America’s history of violence has been forgiven obsolete over the years, we do not want to forget the purpose they had for invading our shores, raping our women and committing mass murders on our own land — that was to capitalize on our resources and colonize and gain control over our country. Until now we still think highly of the nation that only saw us as filthy savages.

It was a horrible past and while the ruthless massacres that took place a long time ago are now far away, the truth still stands that somehow, the US has been looking for every means possible to gain control over the Philippines through military power. Their military bases were successfully terminated in 1991, but they have found a new way to gain access again through the EDCA, hiding under the guise of disaster relief and humanitarian assistance. With the EDCA pushing through and the US setting up military bases in the Philippines, it is not the US who will be paying for their stay here. It is we Filipinos who will carry that burden of providing for the utilities and all the other things necessary for its implementation while US troops can freely gain access to the agreed locations or bases. Do you remember the brutal deaths suffered by the 44 Special Action Force personnel, Miss Pia? There is a lot of evidence to believe that it was an American operation — from the US military involved in training the SAF, to the FBI officer who was given Marwan’s finger for DNA testing, to the American men assisting in carrying the wounded SAF after the battle and even the intelligence support provided by the US. It was the FBI who put a bounty of five million dollars in exchange for Marwan’s head and it was entirely the interest of the US to capture the Malaysian terrorist. Even your friend, President Noynoy Aquino, could not face the family of the Fallen 44 and give concrete explanation about the Oplan Exodus. If the US could violate Philippine sovereignty by intervening in our police matters without our knowledge, they could do so again once they have finally set up bases in the country. We have a lot of questions and reasons to go against EDCA. You are in no position to answer them Miss Pia, for we understand that your view about the America still stands. However, with your busy schedule and tons of work as the reigning Miss Universe, we do hope you could take a look at your roots and acknowledge the problems attached to this so-called agreement. I believe that your goal is toward a humanitarian cause and you are doing a good job at it. As you said in one of your interviews, it is difficult to carry out your duties for a year if you are not into its mission by heart. All the best and good luck. TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

KAHAYAG: LIGHT AMONGST OBSCURITY Sofia Isabel Tajos

“The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing.” - Walt Disney Most of us have probably encountered this quote, and although its concept has been constantly conveyed throughout the past years, its importance has never dwindled. We know that some people, without us trying to be subjective, prefer talking – or complaining – about a certain issue because they think this is the only thing they can do. Some, on the other hand, acknowledge that their actions are just as important as those of everyone else, which is why they start sthriving to be the change that everybody has longed for. A group of engineering students from the University of San Carlos (USC) did just that. With Engr. Christine Marie Gohetia as their coordinator, and Engr. Philip Ignacio Wong-Marcon and Dr. Michael Loretero as their faculty advisers, the group joined the 2015 Sikat Design Challenge that is organized by the Sikat Solar Challenge Foundation Inc. (SSCFI). Franklin Tating Jr. (BS EE 5), John Carlos Matiga (BS EE 5), Neil John Perez (BS EE 5), Jan Dave Campañera (BSCompE 5), Bonifacio Saut (BS ME 4), and alternative members John Paulo Siglos (BS ChE 4) and Chan Baquero (BS IE 1) are the students behind USC Team Kahayag, which aims to implement a system that can produce renewable energy by harnessing the many benefits of the sun.

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

FEATURE

This idea started, according to Engr. Gohetia, when she attended a conference workshop last February 2015. A member of the SSCFI started talking about an event that they host with solar cars – having exhibitions and racing these cars both in Australia and the Philippines. She had also mentioned that the only school participating was De La Salle University, and that yes, the feeling of fulfilment was there, but they felt like they lacked something. Accordingly, the first Sikat Design Challenge was born. A few months after this fateful encounter, SSCFI started sending out invitations to various universities, USC included. Immediately after, the School of Engineering searched for students competent enough to work on the project in relation to Sikat Solar, and five were chosen, but over time, the number of people behind the project has increased. They started by making the news as widespread as possible. Applicants were given three questions by Engr. Gohetia to answer as best as they could. “Come up with an idea or project where you can apply renewable energy.” “In what way will your expertise/degree/program be part of the project?” “How will your project/idea affect the lives of the people or the community?” They were to come up with a system that aimed to utilize renewable energy, and contribute to the problems in connection to water, health, waste and food. Their chosen adopted community, where the system would be implemented first, was Malapascua. It was seen as a paradise by tourists , but by the locals? Not so much. High electricity bills even with low consumption, twice the price of drinking water bought from the city and waste that was managed improperly were among the problems plaguing the citizens there. The place has eight sitios, and most of the group’s respondents were from Sitio Kalubian. Upon visiting the place, they learned that the citizens’ source of drinking water is four wells — one was potable, but the other three contained high levels of salt.

The project, running on solar energy, would solve their problems by providing renewable energy, a water treatment system, and a waste management system. The project was presented in an international workshop on sustainable ecosystems. Although the team did not win, they will still implement the system in Malapascua. They believe that the Sikat Design Challenge was their triggering factor, which means that they will continue the project until, hopefully, it is implemented. “Joining is more than winning,” Engr. Gohetia believed. “We discovered a lot of things along the way.” Currently, the team is looking for investors willing to invest in their project. Luckily, one investor has already pledged to fund them, but they will still need more. The project needs about three to four million pesos, and they are optimistic that two to three years from now, it will be implemented in Malapascua. Malapascua, though, is not their only goal. It is only one of numerous places in the Philippines that have the same problem. Optimistically, when the project works in Malapscua, the team can start spreading it to many more islands. The team wants to help improve the lives of the people, one step at a time. If we strive for what we believe in, almost everything is possible. We should take action. Any idea that comes to mind is as legitimate as any other, provided that it is for the greater good of humanity. With the environmental problems present in this planet, it is scary to think that, someday, our home won’t look like our home anymore. Our minds are things not meant to be restricted. Helping other people by doing this or that? Go for it! Giving life to makes one thing certain: We can make a change, no matter how small. Kahayag. Bring life to even the darkest parts of the world, and maybe, amongst everything that is unclear and chaotic, light will shine through. TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

OPINION

TWO PARALLEL LINES:

Devotion to the Church and the Government Karl Sayson

Photograph by Anthony Bernaldo

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

OPINION

There is always this thick line whenever we talk simultaneously about the church and the government. That line says that we never should have talked about both groups in one topic. Even our laws recognize that both assemblies should always be separated from each other. Although both groups try their best to never collide, however at some point, there is the need for them to intertwine. One good example of which was how both groups impressively messed with each other during the International Eucharistic Congress (IEC) 2016. It is given that the Archdiocese of Cebu was the catalyst for the success of the congress, but it would not have been made possible without the assistance of our local government, from the deployment of police officers and soldiers around the city, down to the issuance of countless permits to access numerous public places that served as venues for the Congress and the handful of road closures and rerouting schemes. During the week-long event, it seemed like the progress in Cebu was fast-forwarded tenfold in speed. All of a sudden, we saw the emergence of an efficient bus system. Out of nowhere, police visibility became clear as daylight. Even the internet speed figuratively made its way as fast as light. Point-by-point, let us enumerate the good things we are capable of doing all the while that were exposed during the IEC. Mass Transportation in Metro Cebu Let me resound that into a question: Mass transportation in Cebu? It may sound a bit odd to put an adjective in transportation but really, we need transportation that could actually accommodate at least 40 people in one trip. Although it can be argued that adding buses in the already crowded streets of Metro Cebu will only make matters worse, but essentially it will not. Adding buses that have their exclusive lanes will actually entice motorists who are stuck in traffic, hopelessly sitting inside their cars, to actually try to be conveyed by a bus and leave their cars at home, thus, lessening the number of vehicles on the road. After all, riding a bus that has its own and exclusive lane will be a lot faster. During the IEC, there were roughly around 72 buses deployed in the metropolis — cities of Cebu, Lapu-Lapu, Mandaue, and Talisay. While there was still traffic congestion in select areas, the delegates seemed to have found comfort riding the buses. Comfort not just being inside the bus being pampered by free WiFi , television and cozy seats, but comfort as to not worrying about having a hard time waiting for a PUJ to ride. If the delegates pretty much appreciated the

temporary bus schemes during the IEC week, how much more comfortable would it be then if we implement them again, with this time being intended for the people of Cebu? If Cebu can be so clever in providing that temporary IEC bus system for the thousands of satisfied delegates who were mostly foreign, then it wouldn’t be harder of a task doing it for the people who are truly residing in Cebu, right? Peace and Order Oh, what a sight it always was to see people falling in line even without the assistance of ushers. People just simply read the signs for directions and instructions. In entrances and exits, people gave way to each other without the need of pushing one another. Perhaps it was a matter of mindset that the fastest way to get out is to really just go with the flow and follow the line, instead of rushing and forming a new line, which is really common among us Filipinos. Class and Comfort It is uncommon for relatively big events like the IEC to be a success without groups of people getting hassled. The groups of people being pertained and given emphasis here is the media. Usually when there is an event, people from the media carry a lot of stuff with them—photographers do not just bring with them a single lens attached to a DSL-R. On top of the aforementioned, there is also the need of a monopod or a tripod to capture still images of fast moving subjects, a bag full of lenses to get the best possible shot depending on the subjects, the lighting and the venue. Writers are commonly mistaken to just plainly write about what happens in events, but in reality, in order for an article to be published and hopefully not get scrapped by the editors, a writer is advised to have a recorder on hand and record interviews and homilies to accurately quote the things being said to provide the readers with sharp information. During the eight-day stretch of the IEC, the media people were given the entire second floor of the IEC Pavilion to utilize. There were state-of-theart furniture pieces that were also used during the 2015 APEC Summit in Manila. There were special booths for the media who spoke French, Portuguese, Chinese, Spanish, Thai and a lot more. Inside these booths were electronic translators, relieving the people from these countries of the hassle to bring their own equipment. There were tripods available for free. There were refrigerators filled with water bottles for free. There was a coffee stand to keep people from the media awake and sharp. There were computers. There were printers. There was a lounge. There was a world-class media hub. No wonder why the IEC in Cebu is truly adored by a huge portion of the community. It shows through

the vast number of posts and articles published. The formula for such warm reception is simple: It is because the organizers took care of the people behind the stage — organizers, volunteers belonging to different communities and the media — and in turn, these very people gave back to the event itself. Translating this into the situation between the government and the people, if only our government faithfully gives its citizenry with the best services it could possibly give, the populace in turn, for sure, will give back to the government. Nothing is better than reciprocity. Announcements and Information Dissemination Bills, for example, have an indispensable requisite prior to them becoming laws. That is, it must be published in the Official Gazette of the Philippines or newspapers of general circulation. The IEC information committee, a day before a certain IEC event started, sent a wide-ranged chain message to all media personnel, volunteers and delegates about what gates should these groups enter during the event the next day and what time they are allowed to enter. If the IEC organizers can implement this, then why is it so hard for the government to do the same thing? Of course, the initial reaction would revolve around the difference of the scope. Yes, it is understood that it would be incomparable to have an event with over a hundred thousand in range be contrasted to a local government or government in general that has millions in its range. The point here is the uniformity and communication among the different branches of government. The branches here are not solely the legislative, executive and judicial branches, but rather the government as a whole, including the barangay level as it the closest government unit to the people. Announcement could be done whenever, for example, power outages or water maintenance are to occur, in order for people to have the luxury of time to prepare for what is to come instead of leaving them rightfully astonished and unprepared. Perhaps, storm signals and their corresponding warnings can also be announced, especially to those who do not have access to radios and televisions. These announcements may not necessarily be done through electronic mail, mail or text, but it can also be done by having a government patrol car or tanods with megaphones announcing the power outage, water maintenance and the possible storm warnings. “Preparation is key,” can never be as timely as it is now as people are given time to prepare for what is coming their way. TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

LITERARY

THERE’S NO LOOKING KCAB Katrina Jaiun Roa

Illustration by Zachary Borromeo My child, hold my hand and come close, let me whisper my words to your ear, and tell you what you surely wouldn’t want to hear.

He promised us abundance and blessings, a healthy and happy life for you and me. In return I worked under him as a poor man’s apprentice. His façade dropped as I witnessed his immorality.

“Paradise exists”, they say. “Blessings will shower upon you”, they say. “We promise you nothing but the truth”, they say.

“You fool,” he told me, “there is no benevolence in this world we live in. Corruption will be the sovereign.” What a fool, I was. I unmasked him, revealing his true intentions, a horror show to the public. I was punished direly.

My child, take my weak hands and hear me out. This kingdom promised us gold and abundance; we receive scarce and ashes. Their mighty men guaranteed valor and guidance; we have nothing but blood and mockery. They promised us a house covered with ivory and pearl; we live in shambles and dirt. Their ruler, a tall man with the sight of a hawk, who wears his black, silk suit covered with purple linen, wears a strong façade hiding his infidelity, promised us water from the pure, cool rivers and food from the greenest gardens, and what did we get? Run my child, for what’s the point of staying? Their ruler will rise from his ashes, but his kingdom will vanish. Just a couple more minutes until I perish, please run, for what’s the point of trying? Our mistakes cannot be rewound; our heavy sorrows will be carried on our fragile backs.

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

Run farther before they catch you too. Do not let blood spill down your face. Do not let your wounds deepen. It is not worth your innocence. Keep what you still have, you are still young. You are yet to witness the world’s decency. Where is paradise now? Where are the blessings showering upon us? Where are the promises that we were guaranteed? Open your eyes and look around. They are all gone, buried deep and never to be found. Give me one last hug as I kiss your head. Do not wipe the blood off my face, for what is the point of cleaning woe when I am passing away? TC

NEWS FEATURE

Christ in Us, Our Hope of Glory:

The 51st International Eucharistic Congress in Cebu Miriam Burlaos, Christa Escudero and Bryant Gonzales Photographs by Jasper Ramirez and Gifthir Elmido

Last June 2012, on the last day of the 50th International Eucharistic Congress (IEC) in Dublin, the Philippine flag was waved in the celebration when Pope Benedict XVI announced the venue of the next IEC — Cebu, Philippines. Four years later, history unfolded as thousands of Catholics from around the world flocked in the province for the 51st IEC, which was held on Jan. 24 to 31 this year.

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

NEWS FEATURE

The Eucharistic Congress, according to the event handbook, is “an international gathering of people [aiming] to promote an awareness of the central place of the Eucharist in the life and mission of the Catholic Church, help and improve our understanding and celebration of the liturgy, and draw attention to the social dimension of the Eucharist”. The first one was held in France in 1881 and then spread out to various parts of the globe. In February 1937, the Philippines rejoiced as the congress set foot on its soil for the first time, during the 33rd IEC in Manila. Almost 80 years later, the congress was back in the country, although now in the province of Cebu. With the theme “Christ in You, Our Hope of Glory” (Col 1:27), the 51st IEC featured series of talks, liturgical celebrations, catecheses, testimonies, workshops and cultural events in different places in the province. On Jan. 24, delegates and thousands of people congregated in Plaza Independencia for the opening Holy Mass of the congress. His Eminence Charles Maung Cardinal Bo, DD of Myanmar, the Papal Legate appointed by His Holiness Pope Francis, presided the ceremony, declaring a “third World War against poverty, greed and injustice” as he forwards his advocacy for peace. On Jan. 25 to 30, delegates gathered in the IEC Pavilion for the congress proper as they listened to talks, testimonies and catecheses

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

on themes such as “Christ our Hope of Glory”, “Christian Hope”, “The Eucharist as Mission”, “Mission as Dialogue” and others.

studies. They insinuate themselves into the lives of the youth from the inside to draw them to the Church.

To Rev. Piero Marini, DD, president of the Pontifical Committee of the IEC, spoke the most important word in the liturgy: “To participate in the liturgy is to adopt the Liturgy in particular circumstances.” Although he supports the Liturgy to adapt to different cultures, Marini reiterated that the Church will never sacrifice the holiness of the Mass to attract the youth. He said that the structure of the liturgy rites are under the 1960 Roman Catholic Church Code of Rubrics. “What is important is how we will celebrate the life of Christ.”

Marianne Servaas, on her testimony, recounted her life in Belgium where she was sexually abused at a young age and how she overcame her past by converting to Catholicism. She praised how Filipinos are very sacramental. “Your joy is related to thankfulness and humility. Please do not lose it. Do not choose artificial happiness. In your joy, you are more human and it is a gift to the world,” she said.

In the increasing secularism in the West, Chicago Bishop Robert Barron expressed that Filipinos scattered around the world are a powerful force in the fight against secularism. When asked on how the Church reinvented itself by having a more engaging liturgy, he said, “It is the job of the Church to tell the story in the compelling way. If not, people will drift away. We did not invent the stories; we are part of the story.”

In a short interview, Cebu Archbishop and president of the 51st IEC Jose Palma was asked about how he hoped that the IEC effect will last for years compared to the already worn-out Pope Francis effect in the Philippines. The Cardinal said, “We can only hope and pray that because this is God’s work and [He] will find a way that it would really linger in people’s hearts and influence them to do better. When we do; when we work like this; we can say that ‘Lord we did our best, but we know it is you who gave the present [and] we just put ourselves in [You].’”

Bishop Barron also answered questions on how to attract the youth to the Eucharist. He mentioned about doing it in a focused way, by facilitating sports and other different youthoriented activities like what they do in the United States. Over time, the youth are invited to Church through activities such as Bible

Manila Archbishop Cardinal Tagle, during his catechesis entitled “The Eucharist and the Dialogue with Cultures”, challenged everyone to foster a Eucharistic culture. One example he said is the culture of “buying what we already have”. Cardinal Tagle lamented, “Is it not ironic that the culture of accumulation is the culture

NEWS FEATURE

of throwing away? Who has something to throw away? Only those who have accumulated. And they have accumulated what they do not need.” On the restoration of family meals, Cardinal Tagle said, “It is in common meals that we share common stories. We do not only share food; we share lives.” He brought up feeding programs and added, “While that is good, that would also have some sort of condescending image. Those who have food would feed those who have none. Maybe we can provide more family meals instead of just meals for certain age group. Maybe we can do something to share food with whole families.” In explaining the cultural quotient in relation to the youth in loving the Eucharist, Tagle said that part of the elements of cultural intelligence is for them to know the other culture and its influence to those people who live that culture. “The best way is to engage the young people for them not to be afraid to explain to us what their culture is and to ask what they find attractive in the Eucharist.” Other events were also held during the congress. A Holy Eucharist was presided by Most Rev. Diarmuid Martin, DD in Cebu Provincial Capitol on Jan. 29, followed by the Eucharistic Procession to Plaza Independencia. About 1.5 million people participated in the procession.

The very first IEC Youth Day was also held in Lapu-Lapu City, bringing together about 5,000 youth delegates from around the world. The IEC Youth Day was organized in order to appreciate the role of the youth in the celebration of the Eucharist and the mission of the Church. With the theme “Christ in YOUth, Our Hope of Glory”, the event spanned from Jan. 27 to 29, with welcoming programs done in six host parishes in Lapu-Lapu City and Cordova on the first day, and the event proper held overnight in Hoops Dome on the remaining two days. Bishop Barron was there to speak for the young audience about having a life driven by the ways of Jesus Christ through avoiding the obsession for wealth, power and worldly pleasures. “When we experience the things that give us pleasure, we get a buzz the first time we experience them, but what happens after that? It fades, because we’re not wired for it. We’re wired for God.” He also encouraged the youth to find what God wants them to be so they can “set the world on fire”. He added, “There’s no one in the Bible who’s given an experience of God without being sent on a mission. Every single person in this room has a mission. Find it. Identify it. Do it.” In his testimony, Paul Ponce highlighted the value of waiting as he shared his life of chastity before he met and married his wife. “We’re made of flesh and bones. It’s hard to resist

temptation, but with God, it is possible to be faithful.” On the last day of the congress, about a million people gathered in San Pedro Calungsod Templete in South Road Properties for the Statio Orbis, the closing Mass of the congress. In his Homily, Cardinal Bo stressed that the Church must return to the youth instead of expecting the youth to return to the Church. For him, the youth need understanding and not judgment. The Cardinal also said that a nation will be the strongest and richest if they invest in the youth, for “the future belongs not to the countries with oil or weapons, but to the [ones] rich with young people.” His Holiness Pope Francis also spoke to the audience via a video message, announcing that the next IEC will be held in 2020 in Budapest, Hungary, and lauding the Filipino Catholic faith as he reflected on the congress theme, stating how “timely” it is as a promise of peace and joy and a summon for the Catholic faithful to spread the message of the congress. “May [the 51st IEC] enable you, as missionary disciples, to bring this great experience of ecclesial communion and missionary outreach to your families, your parishes and communities, and your local Churches. May it be a leaven of reconciliation and peace for the entire world.” TC

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

PARTING SHOT

False hope. False promises. Real emotions.

Photograph by Jessa Pedrola

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

LIQUIDATION

Today’s CAROLINIAN

STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS For Second Semester, A.Y. 2015-2016 Cash Balance, Beginning P440,671.56 Cash Receipts: Today’s Carolinian 2nd Semester Budget P418,289.00 Other Cash Received: LIWANAG Registration Fee P850.00 September Magazine P24,250.00 Total cash available for use P884,060.56 Cash Disbursements: CESAFI Expenses for Five Games: Tickets for Writers P420.00 Tickets for Online Correspondents and Load for Wi-fi Connection P600.00 Tickets for Photographers and Videographers P520.00 Food and Water P326.00 Video Equipment and Editing P250.00 P2,116.00 Total Transportation Expenses for the Second Semester: Transportation for Cash Withdrawals P325.00 Transportation for Cash Deposits P75.00 Transportation to Cover an Event P288.00 Transportation to the TC Workshop Venue, Oct. 2015 P840.00 P1,528.00 Printing Expenses: TC Workshop, Oct. 2015 Certificates P840.00 Journalists of the Month Certificates P63.00 P903.00 Today’s Carolinian Workshop, Oct. 2015 P17,610.00 Litfest Kuris Posters P960.00 Litfest Kuris Booklets P44,910.00 IEC Week Expenses: Cash Delivery Fee P220.00 Lunch, Dinner and Allowance for Writers, Photographers and Online Correspondents for eight straight days P4,850.00 P5,070.00 Website and Advertisement Expenses P3,400.00 November Newsletters P23,561.20 January Newsletters P20,561.20 TC Recruitment Posters P544.00 TC Recruitment Forms P4,000.00 March Magazine P331,000.00 SSC Interview Expenses: Video Equipment P500.00 Snacks for the standard bearers of three political parties P400.00 P900.00 Less: Total Expenses P457,063.40 Cash Balance

P426,997

PREPARED BY:

GERALDEN B. MORRE Finance Officer Today’s Carolinian

Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

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Today’s CAROLINIAN | MARCH 2016

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