Trinity Observer Volume 54, Issue No.3

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Dr. Howell Ho, the outgoing university president hands the university mace to Dr. Gisela D.A. Luna during her installation as university president.

Photo Via : Trinity University of Asia via Michael Daubuet

Dr. Luna is the third university president BY : Russel Loreto

Teaching. Testing. Triumph. these are the words that Dr. Luna wants to make every member of the Trinitian community remember.

Dr. Gisela D.A Luna officially became the university president on April 5, 2022 in the university theather in Trinity University of Asia. During the investiture ceremony, she was recognized as the 3rd president in the university’s 59-year history.

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Trinitians emerge as topnotchers in Real Estate boards By : Loren Hannah M. Coronel

Ten graduates from Real Estate Management (REM) program dominated the April 2022 Real Estate Broker Licensure Examination (REBLE) where two of them, Shirley Silva Mazon and Pamela Ann Torres Perez, were hailed as the Top 1, a first in TUA-REM history.

Filling the Top 10 list are: Lalaine Chua Kawsek on the 5th, Helena Dy Go on the 6th spot, Corazon Calderon Arceo and Maximilian So Tanenglian ranked 7th, Patricia Noelle Inocencio Marquez and Bettina Nicole Yu Reyes claimed the 8th spot, Valerie Mae Adea San Antonio on the 9th place, and Sherren Fabian Regarde placing 10th.

Dr. Maria Victoria Rosas, Dean of the College of Business Management and Accountancy (CBMA), commended the history makers of the REM program. She also recognized the program for establishing a name in the field of Real Estate Management. .

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Dr Luna is the third university president Dr. Luna’s message was of hope and excellence. She shared her future plans for the university under her leadership In her speech she outlined her plans for the university. She aims to make the university one of the top HEIs in the country.

TUA Peers, USC conduct Psychological First Aid webinar BY : Mikaela Rapadas

“We will forge stronger industry partnerships alongside customized curricular programs,” she said. She aims to increase access to quality education of Trinity University of Asia by embracing HyFlex and distance learning programs.

“We must make an effort to be a steady influence upon our students. Beyond the parameters of excellence we shall focus on resilience and character formation,” Dr. Luna added.

She is the first TUA alumni to be the University President, wherein she obtained her BS Nursing and Master of Arts in Nursing degrees at Trinity University of Asia.

The event was also live streamed on TUA events website, Facebook and Youtube.

USC kickstarts podcast on love By: Alexsandra Juarez

As part of the love month celebration, the University Student Council (USC) aired its first podcast episode last February 18, 2022 with the theme “Feb-Ibig: Love In All Forms” and with special guest Dr. Maria Gia B. Sison.

Dr. Sison, a breast cancer survivor for years now, who is also the Philippine Leader for Livestrong Foundation, National Adviser of the Youth for Mental Health Coalition, and Head of Makati Medical Center’s Women Wellness Center, talked about the five languages of love. These languages were developed by Gary Chapman like the words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, acts of service, and receiving gifts.

Among the highlights in the podcast was when she answered questions from the Trinitians community regarding the five love languages, as she also reminded how essential it is to apply proper communication.

Trinitian’s love letter entries were also read and shared. Four lucky callers got the chance to ask their questions to Dr. Gia. She urged the listeners to be open, learn to value their worth, and not to blame themselves in any case of failed relationships.

The podcast was streamed via Zoom and TUA-USC Facebook page as it commenced the KwenTUAhan: The USC Podcast and hosted by Cyra Ocanada and Leul Gabriel Enchalar from the Communications and Public Relations Committee.

Trinitians enjoyed breakout rooms in order to share insights and deepen their self-understanding to build stronger connections in the First Aid Webinar.

Photo Via : Trinity University of Asia

Anyone, not just professionals, can help promote healthy coping and provide a feeling of safety, calmness, and hope through paying attention to reactions, active listening, and practical assistance.

This was the message of Mr. Francis Ray Subong, VicePresident for Internal Affairs of the Philippine Guidance and Counselling Association, to the attendees of PROJECT HOPE: Mental Health Matters: The Psychological First Aid Webinar, last January 26, 2022, coorganized by TUA Peers and the University Student Council (USC).

“Peer support is very important in our lives, especially during this pandemic. PFA, in one way or another, will help not only ourselves but basically others,” said Mr. Subong.

He then shared a personal story of him being a counselor and how it helped him to apply the mental health continuum in determining self-care, social support, and professional care.

Mr. Subong also tackled how human emotions play a crucial role in actions and how hood fluctuations or a shift in mood affect the pattern of movement on a daily basis.

Dr Gia Sison shares advice on self-love and on relationships. She suggested that people take a look at their past relationships and learn to forgive themselves.

Photo Via : Trinity University of Asia - USC

“No man is an island. We need someone who can be there,

who can listen to us without any judgment,” he added.

Mr. Subong also gave situations when to refer a client, including the person not eating, exhibiting a destructive manner, lack of sleep for the past week, threatening or harming himself or others. He suggested asking for help from parents, relatives, co-workers, neighbors, friends, peers, local PNP, and barangay officials.

He also gave self-care tips such as talking with friends and loved ones, minimizing the intake of alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, or non-prescription drugs, reminding one’s self that he/she is not responsible for solving other people’s problems, taking short breaks to eat, rest, and relax, studying or working at reasonable hours to prevent exhaustion, and reflecting on what part of the past made somebody keep going and what they can do to remain strong in difficult times.

The webinar also held an open forum for sharing of insights. A breakout session also took place for discussion of experiences and learnings. Dr. Alfiee BrelandNoble, Scientist Founder of the AAKOMA Project, Inc., and Senator Risa Hontiveros, author and principal sponsor of the Mental Health Law, concluded the event by delivering their inspirational messages.

News CMT tallies 82% rate in the March 2022 MTLE By: Lianne Gwyn Prado

Trinity University of Asia- College of Medical Technology (TUA-CMT) garnered an impressive 82.35% passing rate beyond the national passing rate of 46.08% in the March 2022 Medical Technology Licensure Exam (MTLE) that produced 14 new registered medical technologists out of 17 takers.

“Certainly, the CMT educational system will always be the key factor in our performance in the MTLE,” asserted Dr. Mark Francisco, Officer-InCharge of the college.

He said that honing the students with a quality curriculum combined with skills-development activities and delicate training from the faculty were utilized by CMT that contributed to the success of the students.

Teamwork was also emphasized by Dr. Francisco as this is what they implement in the college.

Mrs. Rona Trinidad, Academic Head of CMT, also shared tips for the upcoming September 2022 MTLE takers.

She mentioned that having balance between review sessions would also help the students to pass the board examination.

According to the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), 1,268 examinees out of 2,752 passed the exam held in PRC testing centers in the country.

TUA celebrates 59th Founding Anniversary By: Charles Worren E. Laureta & Jessa Mae G. Gabasa

Given the ongoing pandemic, Trinity University of Asia (TUA) opened its 59th Founding Anniversary via online channels last February 19, 2022 with the theme “Celebrating Abundance Towards the Diamond Years”.

The celebration began with a thanksgiving mass officiated by the Most Rev. Brent Alawas, the Prime Bishop of the Episcopal Church in the Philippines. It was immediately followed by a short welcome remark from the former president of TUA, Dr. Wilfred Tiu, as he greeted the TUA community for its anniversary. A glimpse of the recently opened Molecular Biology Laboratory from the administration of Dr. Tiu was also presented.

A discussion of a five-year review of unforgettable accomplishments was initiated by, Dr. Fernando Trinidad, Dean of College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM), Dr. John Lorena, Dean of Saint Luke’s College of Nursing (SLCN), and Dr. Rufo Aggarao, Dean of College of Allied Health Sciences (CAHS).

According to Dr. Trinidad, the Trinity entrep-corner with Robinsons Magnolia was the unforgettable accomplishment of his department during Dr. Tiu’s administration. The program aimed to provide Trinitians with an entrepreneurial mindset as TUA’s partnership with Robinsons started in 2018, “The objectives of this entrep-corner is to provide our students and pronunciate the real taste of detail experience, how to create entrepreneurial mindset, and to haul entrepreneurial skills,” he said.

Dr. Aggarao revealed that their accomplishment includes the growing number of enrollees in College Allied Health and Sciences amidst the pandemic, and the improving line-up of faculty members in their college. During his talk, he also mentioned applying for Commission on Higher Education (CHED) accreditation for his college.

Dr. Ferdinand Bunag, Dean of CEIS, Mr. Randy Lagdaan, Information Communication Technology (ICT) Director, and Ms. Caroline Balmes, Trinitian Community Section Development Head (TCDS) discussed their greatest challenges in the community. According to Dr. Bunag and Mr. Lagdaan, there were already plans on having the Electronic Learning System Management (eLMS) before COVID-19 happened, but at the time when they were practicing, pandemic came. The limited interaction and lack of manpower were a few of the problems that they have overcome. Ms. Balmes mentioned that her struggle was lack of social interaction within the community yet they were grateful to the top management and Trinitian community for supporting and extending help.

The student leaders also thanked Dr. Tiu for allowing and making a diverse community for everyone and by making the institution a safe space second to home.

Multiple laboratories in the new Health Sciences Center were formally opened and blessed just in time for the celebration of the university’s 59th anniversary.

Photo Via : Trinity University of Asia via Dr. Noel Tiburcio

The next set of speakers, Dr. Juliet K. Bucoy, Dean of Graduate School, Dr. Jinky Gamit, Manager of Marketing and Communications Office (MCO), and Dr. Maria Antonia Capili, Director of University Research and Development Center (URDC), also narrated their experiences with Dr. Tiu. For Dr. Bucoy, she admired Dr. Tiu for his goodness as he was an exemplary leader. Dr. Capili recalled her experience where Dr. Tiu gave an opportunity despite being down during that time. Dr. Gamit also described the former TUA president as a caring leader who checks up on the health of everyone and a generous person who usually offers meals to his colleagues.

Subsequently, Dr. Gisela Luna, current University President, gave an inspirational message about abundance.

“Abundance is not about financial gain or the wealth that you have, but it is about being able to open oneself to the true bonds that can be formed in friendships and relationships, as well as with self in terms of our well being,” she said.

The week-long 59th Founding Anniversary is continued from April 2-8, 2022 celebrated in both in-person and virtual events.

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Trinitians emerge as topnotchers in the Real Estate boards

TUA conducts health and wellness webinar series

“The result of REM examination is another milestone for the CBMA. Our students made it into Top 10, especially the Top 1 rank. This will serve as an inspiration to our students who will also take the board examination in the future,” said Dr. Rosas.

To prioritize the health and wellness of Trinitians before the official start of Academic Year 2021-2022, TUA Peers, in collaboration with the University Student Council (USC) and the TUA Honor Society, conducted a webinar series from January 24 to February 5, 2022, via Zoom.

By: Mikaela Rapadas

Ms. Mazon shared a testimony for their recognition and graduation ball on May 25, where she narrated that she did not imagine herself being in the field of real estate nor even taking the boards and earning the topnotcher’s spot. ‘ Compared to her blockmates, she was not engaged in any form of selling or marketing but had some familiarity in the profession due to her daily interactions with brokers in her current job in land acquisition.

“I didn’t imagine I could potentially be at the other side of the negotiating table, until I took this course. Now, I have an alternative career in the future,” she mentioned in her speech.

She also extended her gratitude to their REM professors and acknowledged the help of Dr. Karen Uy, their department chair.

TUA’s passing rate for April 2022 REBLE came to 66.36% with 144 out of 217 passers. Consistently, REM program produced set of topnotchers from June 2019 with 86.67% and August 2019 Licensure Examination for Real Estate Appraisers (LEREA) with 68.18% passing rate.

Second year HRM students are doing their classwork for their limited face-toface class. Trinitians were finally allowed limitedonsite classes after 2 years of distance learning due to the COVID-9 pandemic Photo Via : Trinity University of Asia

CAHS holds First Stethoscope and Pinning Ceremony By: Patricia Mae C. Buenviaje

Dr. Rufo Aggarao, Dean of CAHS, shared facts about the internship program to the candidates who received their stethoscope and pin, and reminded them that they are the one doing the actual examination to the patients once deployed in the hospital. He also motivated the lower classmen to reach fourth year to be able to participate in the stethoscope and pinning ceremony.

TUA College of Allied Health Sciences conducted their First Respiratory Therapy Stethoscope & Pinning Ceremony at Trinity University of Asia - Chapel last Saturday, March 26. .Photo Via : Princess Angel Grace Najeera

The College of Allied Health Sciences (CAHS) conducted the first Stethoscope and Pinning Ceremony for Batch 2022 of Respiratory Therapy (RT) program in TUA University Chapel with the 2021 Most Outstanding Respiratory Therapist as the guest speaker, Mr. Michael Jorge R. Fulgencio, RTRP last March 26, 2022.

The students who completed and passed the requirements for their degree program were Earl Eric Delima, Twittle Mheel Dizon, and Karsten Tolentino.

The ceremony was attended by students’ family members, RT faculty and Society of Aspiring Respiratory Therapist (SART) off icers.

Dr. Noel Tiburcio, the program chair of Respiratory Therapy, reminisced the challenges of the field during the pandemic where mostly respiratory therapists are also on the frontline. He revealed that this somehow caused less enrollees in the program. However, it was rectified through advertisement and career immersion to convince both the parents and students.

In his inspirational message, Mr. Fulgencio stressed the importance of respiratory therapists.

“Breathe. Lead. Believe that once a respiratory therapist thrives, a life survives,’ he said.The candidates also had a chance to share their experiences in this pandemic and plans after they graduated in the course.

In the first installment of the webinar series entitled “Introspection: Achieving my Emotional Competencies”, guest speaker Prof. Eleandro Llaneta of the TUA-Psychology Department stressed the importance of emotional intelligence during the pandemic and how it is equally important as the technical skills in the changing world.

The second installment focused on understanding the science of climate change, with Prof.

Marlon Maglipas, President and Founding Chair of Transforming Advocates and Champions (TRAC) and the Coordinator of the Student Activities and Development Unit of FEU Institute of Technology, Manila, as guest speaker.

Prof. Maglipas discussed how to adapt to intensifying climate change and how people can take action to reduce its adverse effects.

He added that communities that experienced most weather-related disasters suffered an increase in the food price index due to low food supply and water scarcity.

The last installment of the webinar tackled the importance of respiratory care in the time of the pandemic, with Dr. Noel Tiburcio, Academic Head of TUARespiratory Therapy Department, as guest speaker.

In his talk, Dr. Tiburcio highlighted the importance of establishing respiratory care that dramatically affects the wellbeing of a person in times of health crises such as COVID-19.

Aside from the aforementioned online discussions, the two-week webinar series also conducted webinars that addressed other topics associated with business and finance, the digital world, drug prevention, and TUA voter’s profile.

News CHTM, CAHS bag Mr. & Miss TUA crowns By: Zoe Natividad

“The most viable and feasible solution to this is if we could have them with Peace Talks and Peace Deals.”

This was the answer of Twittle Mheel Dizon of the College of Allied Health Sciences (CAHS) which earned her the Miss TUA 2022 title last March 31 at the University Theater. Mark John Bangayan of College of Hospitality and Tourism Management (CHTM) was also crowned as Mr. TUA 2022.

The Mr. and Miss TUA pageant, dubbed as the annual search for Peace Educations Ambassadors, took place inside the campus, making it the first in-person pageant of the university since the pandemic. It was broadcasted last April 8 in TUA Events Facebook page.

Thedie Anne Caspe of the College of Medical Technology (CMT) and Seiya Tomimoto of College of Business Management and Accountancy (CBMA) representative, were declared first runners-up while Herbert Harold Lacsi of the College of Arts, Sciences, and Education (CASE) and Gabrielle Domingo of the High School department bagged the second runner-up spots.

Special awards were also given to Dizon as the Beloved of the Production Staff and Beloved for Photogenic. Bangayan, on the other hand, won the Best in Casual and Best in Formal Wear and the Beloved for Telegenic and Beloved of the Crowd awards.

Lanz Jerlan Peña of CAHS and Caspe won the Beloved of the Press award as chosen by the Trinity Observer Editorial Board. Lacsi was given The Beloved of the Production Staff while Caspe also won the Beloved in Social Media award alongside Mark Martin Sarto of TUA High School. Domingo obtained the Beloved for Friendship award together with Tomimoto. and Caspe clutching the Beloved for Photogenic award.

Beloved for Physique award went to Christine Aguilera of St. Luke’s John Bangayan of CHTM and Twittle Mheel Dizon of CAHS are crowned as Mr and Ms TUA College of Nursing (SLCN) and Lacsi. Shereign Anne Faeldonia of Mark 2022 at the University Theater.

CBMA won Beloved of the Crowd. Francis Bryan Imperial and Aguilera Photo Via :Jasmine Joyce Salenga received the Beloved for Peace award. The judges gave Quintin Mangaoang and Domingo the Best in Production Number award, while Lacsi and Caspe won the Beloved for Peace Statement award.

The panel of judges consists of Filipino Fashion Designer Avel Bacudio, Mister International Philippines 2016 Miguel Guia, and Showtime Sexy Babe Kaithlyn Landicho.Film and Television celebrity Romnick Sarmenta, who also teaches at the Media and Communication Department of the university, hosted the pageant.

Mr. and Miss TUA 2022 is part of the 59th Founding Anniversary Celebrations of Trinity University of Asia.

SLCN wins TRINITHINK 2022 By: Russel Loreto

A sophomore from St. Luke’s College of Nursing (SLCN) was hailed as the champion of Trinithink 2022 last April 4.

Diether Quebral outsmarted 22 other contestants from different colleges and departments in the annual inter-college quiz bee organized by Trinity Observer, the official student publication of the university.

Karsten Tolentino from the College of Allied Health Sciences (CAHS) won the first two rounds as Quebral trailed behind just enough to qualify for the final round. In the end, he ranked first runner up and Fatima Conception from the College of Medical Technology (CMT) placed second runner up for this year’s quiz bee.

Diether Quebral from SLCN is the champion for Trinithink 2022 held on Monday, April 4. The event was done via Zoom and broadcasted via FB live. Also in the picture is Karsten Tolentino the firstrunner up, Fatima Conception the second runner up and the quizmaster Mr. Divino L. Cantal Jr.

The quiz bee was divided into two elimination rounds and a final round. All participants ranking 10th to 4th place received PHP 500 cash prize, the second runner up received PHP 1,500, the first runner up received PHP 3,000, while the TriniThink Champion received PHP 5,000 and lauded as the smartest student in the university .

The event at its peak drew in more than 200 concurrent viewers done via Zoom and broadcasted via Facebook live. Trinithink, is part of Trinity University of Asia’s 59th foundation days activities.

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News Jubilarian employees recognized By: Ginogabriel Tuason

A total of 36 administrators, teaching, and non-teaching personnel of Trinity University of Asia were recognized during the Bishop Paul Matthews Service Awards last April 6, 2022 at the University Theater.

Dr. Bienvenido S. Gaddi, Medical and Dental Unit director, the foremost awardee for his 50 years in service, delivered the message of gratitude on behalf of the awardees.

Mr. Jerry Navarette, Chairman of TUA Board of Trustees, the Most Rev. Brent Alawas, Prime Bishop of the Episcopal Church of the Philippines, and the TUA administrators led by Dr. Gisela DA Luna, University President, graced the event.

The Bishop Paul Matthews Service Awards is part of the celebration of the 59th Founding Aniversary of the university.

CASE and USC organize voters education forum By: Molly Delany F. Delizo

The College of Arts, Sciences, and Education (CASE) Student Council, in collaboration with the University Student CounciI (USC), launched a webinar that can guide Trinitian students on the right process of voting, dubbed as “HUMALATA: Gabay ng Trinisyano sa Tama at Responsableng Pagboto” last March 5, 2022 via Zoom and USC Facebook page.

Mr. Homer Balmes, Officerin-Charge of Student Affairs Center, commenced the discussion with his inspirational talk where he mentioned that voting is not only about electing the right leader but also improving the future that the country could have.

He also related the TUA Five Marks of Mission in the election day wherein voters should embody the Trinitian spirit and consider a candidate as if choosing a leader that will fulfill the goals of the university, and one who would serve the country and Almighty.

Atty. Garry Bonifacio, current election officer of Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Manila, and the invited resource speaker for the event, shared guidelines and some reminders to clarify some processes which may be confusing especially to first time voters.

He said that bringing a list of the candidates is allowed, however taking a picture of the shaded ballot is a violation.

Another speaker, Mr. Jervis Manahan, broadcast journalist

from ABS -CBN News, clarified the role of the media during the campaign and election period He focused mainly on the effect of the media in the decision making of the voters.

Since misinformation became more prevalent, he also tackled what precautions could be applied to ensure the credibility of the information that is being disseminated.

“The media can, and will always, influence the results of an election,” Mr. Manahan

asserted as he expounded that due to pandemic, more people spend time in social media and this has been an avenue for the running candidates to campaign and showcase their platforms.

The closing remarks from Chloe Estolas, USC Governor, concluded the webinar wherein she highlighted the purpose of the event which is to educate the public, mainly the students, on the proper way of exercising the right to vote.

TUA facilitates Spiritual Nurturance 2022

TCDS and CBMA promote entrepreneurial mindset By: Loren Hannah M. Coronel

To help the students and residents of TUA partner communities learn strategies and techniques in business, the Trinity Community Development Section, in partnership with the College of Business Management and Accountancy’s (CBMA) Project BEST, facilitated a learning session last February 26, 2022 via Zoom.

In his message to online participants, Mr. Jonathan De Leon, Academic Head of Marketing and Human Resource Development Department of CBMA and the invited resource speaker of the activity, suggested starting a business that is generic and applying innovations and twists that would entice customers.

He also mentioned other approaches, such as befriending business-minded individuals and making connections along the way. He advised the audience to do research, create brand image, advertise, and invest for business growth.

This was the first event of TCDS and Project BEST for the current year.

By: Sophia Viviane Datu

In line with the celebration of the 59th Founding Anniversary, the Office of the University Chaplain, together with Languages and Contemporary Human Studies Department, and Class of English 104 presented the annual Spiritual Nurturance with the theme “Deepening Connections and Communication with the Lord in Times of Uncertainties” last February 19, 2022 with special guests Ms. Mariz Umali, Ms. Candy Pangilinan, PBGEN. Nelson Bondoc, and Mr. Baron Geisler.

The guest speakers started the talk by sharing their experiences on how faith and religion affected their life. Ms. Umali, a broadcast journalist, narrated that she started with church ministries at a young age as a member of the choir and currently a part of the lectors ministry in Sacred Heart Parish, Kamuning. Her husband,

Raffy Tima, has a different religion yet she revealed how supportive he is with her role in their church.

PBGEN. Bondoc, an alumnus of Trinity High School and former Police Regional Director of MIMAROPA (Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan), cherished the time where they were sent to Catholic schools to study that made him knowledgeable in strengthening his faith, and how his family always went to church and prayed the rosary together. His routine of doing church services became part of his life that even away from his family and alone at work, he looked for time to still attend mass.

Ms. Pangilinan, a Film and TV actress, recalled that she had no choice as a child but to follow her mom as she joined prayer meetings and started by just offering snacks

to their fellow church members. Yet as she grew old, she realized that the greatest blessing of the Lord is also His greatest enemy because she became busy following her dreams and all opportunities that the Lord had given her.

Mr. Baron was not able to attend the live discussion, he shared a video where he answered how he was able to spiritually grow despite the past he had. He remembered when he was in jail and experienced a spiritual encounter with the Lord.His advice especially to the youth is to choose the circle of friends, people that can help whenever he is down, and to always pray and meditate.

The online panel discussion was spearheaded by Prof. Grace DG. Sarao and streamed via Zoom and TUA Events Facebook page.

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TUA towards the diamond years By: Larah Beyao

Trinity University of Asia continued its celebration of the 59th Founding Anniversary after its commencement last February 19, 2022 to a week-long celebration that began last April 2, 2022 with the theme “Celebrating Abundance Towards the Diamond Years” stream via online channels with some events held in-person in TUA University Theater.

The Trinity Talk kicked off the event where the discussion focused on the university’s future and the comamunity’s role in achieving the objectives of providing high-quality education to students and how it will contribute to the nation’s advancement as an academic institution.

“There is no going back to the way it was before, because right now things are going to be different after the pandemic—there are three periods you have to listen to: pre-pandemic, pandemic, post-pandemic, or what we call the new normal. There is no way we are going back because reality has brought several changes,” said Dr. Gisela Luna, University President, after being asked on what to be improved for TUA to be running back again

New circumstances, new challenges, new leadersip: School admins, deans, faculty and student leaders shared their hopeful and informative insightstowards the diamond years of TUA. Photo Via : Trinity University of As ia

like it was before the pandemic.

Dr. Luna added that the first thing to be done is to conduct a methodical and systematic assessment of what TUA has and can do as it advances. She also mentioned about the gaps that must be addressed since the previous two years have diminished the quality of the facilities.

The next segment tackled the context and future of education through the perspective of distinctive programs of Dr. Maria Victoria Ulgado-Rosas, Dean of College of Business Management and Accountancy (CBMA), Dr. Mark Francisco, Officer-in-Charge (OIC) of College of Medical Technology, and Mr. Julius Somera, TUA- Junior High School (JHS) Principal Mr. Somera said that the issues in high school are related to education recovery.

High school years are indeed the longest in the educational process, lasting six years, so to discover their talents and identities, students should be exposed to a variety of co-curricular and extracurricular activities.

“High school is a year of identity crisis,” Mr. Somera stated as he also explained

that JHS students must also prepare for limited face-to-face classes knowing that high school is a vital year for students to figure out what they actually want as they go to college.

Dr. Francisco, on the other hand, was concerned with developing medical technology skills other laboratory procedures since licensure exams are required for medical technology and the recent passing rate is less than half of the takers. It has made Dr. Francisco to focus heavily on student quality and his goal for the students is to overcome difficulties and prepare learners to become leaders in the future growth of world-class registered medical technologists.

Meanwhile, Dean Ulgado-Rosas claimed that she faced the most difficulties because she was appointed at the height of the pandemic. She shared that she had to tread carefully when it came to assisting students with mental health issues. With the aid of everyone at CBMA, she said that they were able to adapt to developments in the real world of business.

Students from different colleges also shared their obligations and responsibilities and how they were able to conquer all of it.

Subsequently, another set talked about the challenges encountered, namely Dr. Teresita Capacete, Officer-in-Charge of the College of Arts, Science and Education; Arch. Marjorie Marfil-Obsum, Director of Building Administration and Maintenance Unit; and Ms. May Ann Laciste, Manager of the Center for Education and Technology.

Student leaders from various colleges and organizations also gathered and participated in the event. They brought up their concerns to the univesity and shared possible solutions to problems a Trinitian might face.

Photo Via : Trinity University of As ia

Dr. Capacete highlighted the importance of co-curricular and extra-curricular activities to the total development of students while Arch.

Marjorie Obsum assured that her office has

made the entire campus safe and adheres to the health protocols set by the local and national government. For Ms. Laciste, she is thinking of ways on how to train the faculty to offer the new courses using the Hyflex which is a learning system that combines face-to-face (FTF) and online education. She mentioned that this will helps students improve their skills and continuous progress is needed to be done in order to achieve it.

Another set of student leaders also shared some insight on how they dealt with the responsibilities they have.

Commonly, they value teamwork and time management in order to fulfill their roles both in their academics and organizations.

They also instilled the core values of a Trinitian student to overcome difficulties as a student leader.

The last set that tackled their stories of challenges were Mr. Homer Balmes, OIC of Student Affairs Center, and Ms. Jeanette Victoria Naval, Director of Guidance Center.

Mr. Balmes explained that the main challenges were the context of communication during a pandemic, yet he later on realized that there is still a need to appreciate and explore ways to connect, people just have to efficiently utilize resources.

Based on Ms. Jeanette, doing their job requires prevention of being overwhelmed to perform what needs to be done, just like reaching out to students, making facebook pages, setting up email accounts, and converting all resources into an online form.

The first day of the week-long celebration concluded with a song of prayer by TUA alumni.

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Literary

Extras

Aries

(Mar 21 - April 19)

By:TiredEDITOR|Artworkby:mariarumbaoa

Wag ka nang mag text sa kanya di ka niya rereplyan. (spooky) Focus on yourself bhie #Selflove

Aries (Mar 21 - April 19) Lucky Object: Ghost

By:TiredEDITOR|Artworkby:mariarumbaoa

Confront mo na ang to groupmate mo na walang ambag para sa finals. I-confront mo na Things avoid:Messenger rin crush mo. Mag-ready ka nalang baka i-seen kalang nilang dalawa.

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Taurus

kang magwork out at bumili ng gym membership pero di mo naman gagamitin

Taurus

(April Lucky place: Kusina20 - May 20) Things Realmaya talkinna mo sarilik-pop mo mo Taposin mo na finals to modo: bhie, yang Lucky Object: Notebook (May 21 - Jun 20) Things To Avoid: V-live Matulog ka na, joke lang basahin mo may ebas pa ang mga editor sa likod ng page na ito.

Pero need mo na talaga matulog.

Gemini

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Wag kalimutan hugasan ang plato bago magtiktok.

Things To Avoid: Kape Palaging uminom ng water, nakakapagod mag hit the whoah.

(Jun 21 - Jul 22) Lucky App : TikTok Papaiyakin ka..dahil nadapa ka.. joke. Maiyakin talaga kayo mga Cancer. Someday may Place to avoid : Kusina (feel ko lang) magpapasaya sayo

Cancer

Lucky Number: 1 (Jun 21 - Jul 22) Cancer Unlucky Number: 2 Happy ka ngayon, matatapos mo na lahat ng finals mo. Magkaka 1.0 Leo ka.

(Jul 23 - Aug 22) Happy ka na dahil may 1.0 ka. Pero di ka naman umambag sa groupmates mo, kahit luto man Lucky Number: 1 lang pancit canton Unlucky Number: 3

Leo

23 Me - Aug 22) Lucky Food(Jul : Lucky Message mo na si crush tas sabay daw kayo pabakuna, char may bakuna na ba? #Bakuna (Aug 23 - Sep 22) Lucky Mythical Creature: Bakunawa Wag matakot na umamin sa crush na gagraduate na. Ano na last chance mo na to? Lakas mo Next travel destination: Sa vaccination site makahanap ng sign di mo naman ginagawa

Virgo

Virgo (Aug 23 - Sep 22) Things to do: Tell the truth

Tigil-tigilan mo ang pagiging perfectionist mo, wala kang matatapos jan.

Unlucky activity: Procrastination Things to do: Finals requirements

Libra

9

(Sep 23 - Oct 22)

Masc-scam ka sa shoppe. Yun lang

UnLucky App: Shoppe Libra (Sep 23 - Oct 22) Unlucky shape: Rectangle na black Pagod ka na, oo pagod ka nang magisa lang sa buhay; kaya ikaw ay maghahanap ngScorpio karamay.

(Oct 23 - Nov 21) Lucky App: Tinder (charot) Magkakajowa ka kaso panaginip lang pala to

Unlucky supernatural creature: Ghosts

Errand to do: Maghanap ng gayuma (Oct 23 - Nov 21) Scorpio Ma-didiscover mo na ang peace mo, kase lahat ng gc ay nakamute or naka-ignore.

Maawa ka sa groupmates mo bhie.

Sagitarrius (Nov 22- Dec 21) Things to open: Groupchats

Magbre-break kayo. Break time char. Pero magkakabalikan

Lucky Number: 13

Future activity: Kumain ng red flag na chicken joy Sagitarrius Future ulam: Sama ng loob

Lalago ang mga pinaghirapan mo, ung maliit na halaman mo na tinanim noong simula ng quarantine ay mamumunga na.

(Dec 22 - Jan 19) Lucky Plant: Kamatis Mag-rerenew ng spotify pero kulang ang Gcash mo ngayon. Magdusa ka muna Future ulam: Tinola withka kamatis sa mga ads.

Unlucky phrase: Whether you’re up in the clouds or going way underground, it’s easy to take

Capricorn

Capricorn (Dec 22 - Jan 19) Aquarius

your music with you whereever you go. With Spotify Premium...

Makakatulog ka habang nasa harap ng computer. Sasakit ang ulo mo tas sasabihan ka ng mama mo,“kakakompyuter mo yan.”

(Jan 20 - Feb 18) Lucky Object: Mousepad na naging unan Tagulan pero walang tubig ulit sa inyo. Maligo ka nalang sa ulan Medicine to take: Mefenamic acid

Aquarius (Jan 20 - Feb 18)

Lucky Item : Tabo Things you should do: Maligo (still) Mahina ang pressure ng tubig ngayon kaya dapat kang magipon ng tubig para makakaligo sa susunod na araw. Joke lang, pwede pumasok sa online classes na walang ligo.

(Feb 19 - Mar 20) Lucky Item : Tawas para sa kili-kili Things youF2F should do: Maligo classes na, magkakaroon ka ng bebe. As in ung duck..

Pisces

Future pet: Duck (quack) Pisces (Feb 19 - Mar 20)

Blessed by the moon ka this week. May isang Aries sa buhay mo na malaki ang crush sayo, pero dapat acads muna Lucky Item: Acads Things to avoid: Late night talks (marupok kase sha)

Comic Corner

Want to write, draw or contribute for Trinity Observer?

Send it to us: tua_to@tua.edu.ph

10 Opinion

Big tech’s erosion of democracy POLEMIC Russel Anthony P. Loreto | Editor-in-Chief

While the official proclamation of the Philippine election are still on the horizon, it is no joke that this immense populism and historical revisionism is the result from big tech’s lack of adequate safeguards against disinformation. This election season has further confirmed my suspicion that we live in echo chambers.

As a result, we are quick to dismiss any opposing ideas and the popularity of said ideas.

My feed has been filled with movements from the opposition, and I thought we had a fighting chance. Sadly, with the numbers coming in, I might have been misled by algorithms that fed me what I wanted to see based on my internal biases. It honestly feels like the Philippine internet is divided into two, one that reads credible news and the one that does not.

Suppose the media had enough time to respond to the information vacuum that has now been continuously filled with fake news. In that case, we might not see the majority of Filipinos forget our painful history. Sadly, the media are facing problems on both sides, silencing and

being attacked by the government. On the other side, big tech and propaganda are outpacing traditional news outlets, leaving room for more disinformation.

The media used to be the gatekeepers of information but now that role has been given to tech companies whose primary motivation is not of the truth but of profits.

There is a saying that democracy is only as good as the education surrounding it. But when you constantly attack sources of information and the truth, democracy is eroded and subjected to populist and misinformed beliefs. When these things happen, we can see the tyranny of the majority, the same thing that led to the rise of populists throughout the globe from Trump, Bolsonaro, Duterte, and now Marcos.

These falsehoods weaken our democracy by weakening the institution and everything surrounding it. When our democratic institutions are weak, we see abuses of power and tolerance towards it.

Fake news discredits the truth and

facts but also puts the credibility and perception of the victim and the media in question. As people grow more skeptical of the press, the power of the fake news peddlers grows, and the people that read their propaganda become their captive audience.

My friend once said that we should stop looking at misinformation and disinformation as social crises but it is also an epistemological crises. A war waged against reason and knowledge is a war against truth. If there is no truth, there are no facts; how can we truly see the world objectively? How can we see the world for what it truly is and was?

If there are no longer facts and objectivity, how can democracy function?

To fight disinformation, we must tackle it head-on; we must make people who don’t believe the truth trust it again. Fighting disinformation is not just rebutting people with “well according to my research.”

Fighting disinformation includes convincing, educating people with a heart, trying to understand where they are coming from, and debunking their perceptions. While cold heart facts might be great, I’d say when talking to someone that is misinformed, we shouldn’t

Can we change history?

PIERROT Jean Andrei G. Senen | Managing Editor

Growing up, history has always been a favorite subject of mine.

I always loved learning about how things came to be, and why they even happened in the first place. I had a deep interest in the relationships between different countries and what made historical icons, well, icons.

From a young age, we were always reminded of the importance of studying history, and if not that, we were taught the importance of looking back at certain events in our life; without these past events, there would be no present, and if we never learn from the mistakes of our past, we would be making

the same mistakes during our future.

I was also taught to pick up the good attitudes and throw away the bad ones; I believed that this didn’t only apply to attitudes and how we treat people, but I retained the idea that this could also apply to the lessons we learn from other people.

or those who survived. And nowadays, I’m beginning to learn that history can surprisingly be subjective, given that people have different experiences throughout certain events.

Take for example, while others will remember past storms and typhoons as nothing too lifechanging, but maybe a gift even, because school and work had been suspended and because of the cold weather. But this only counts if you live in higher, nonflood prone areas.a If you lived in a flood prone area, or maybe even in the provinces that got severely History is chuck-filled with hit by the typhoon, of course you’d lessons. Often it is said that if we remember it as a horrible thing. do not learn from history, we are bound to make the same mistakes.

Or when the COVID-19 pandemic had hit in the early But there is a tricky part in 2020’s. Others will say that the history, wherein it is more often pandemic had brought onto them than not, written by the winners much-needed rest and bonding

antagonize them, but we should make them trust and make them love the truth once again.

I will be honest with you; every news outlet will have a slant or something lacking in their reportage. But that does not mean they want to feed you misinformation and propaganda. It also does not mean that they are secretly colluding with elites or whatever conspiracy you have in your mind. As readers, it is our job to corroborate the facts and read multiple news sources, even those outside of our identified political spectrum. Journalists from any news outlet are not immune to any errors, hence why ‘erratum’ exists, so it pays to fact-check your journalist.

Lastly, the most logical solution is the hardest one; it is to hold big tech accountable for the erosion of democracy, not just here in the Philippines but also worldwide. Legislation needs to be passed to make sure that big tech will control the spread of misinformation and disinformation in their platforms.

Until that happens, we need to tackle disinformation head-on.

time with their families, since everyone couldn’t go out and was quarantining at home. And plenty of others, such as myself and a few others I know, would remember the pandemic as something that stripped them away of work and motivation, and left them in a state of depression, anxiety, grief and despair.

History itself is not subjective– what has happened has happened, and there is no denying the truth. What is subjective is the experiences of others. Someone’s experience is always going to be either better or worse than someone else’s, but in no way does that mean we disregard someone’s experience.

But then again, that doesn’t mean we can change history to fit a personal narrative either. Just because the rain was a blessing for you does not mean it was not a burden to another.

Opinion

Where do we go from here?

THE SENTINEL Zoe Natividad | Associate Editor

Almost a month after the 2022 elections have passed, I constantly ask the people around me the same question I ask myself every time. Where do we, Filipinos, go from here?

I woke up to an already tiring day, having slept only a few hours while desperately clinging to the hope that somehow the unofficial tally of the results might change. It felt like I was going through a breakup. To even kickstart my morning, I stumbled upon a vlogger saying other parties need to stop being bitter, move on and accept

VERACITY Sophia Viviane B. Datu | News Editor

Do you ever wonder why scientists resorted to civil disobedience?

The time left for saving the Earth was recently estimated at only three to five years. Whether people will believe it or not, natural and scientific evidence do not lie. Warnings were neglected over the decades, restoration efforts were blatantly forsaken, and consequences were unequivocal. Bet that other people even laugh at their peaceful protest, but mind you, it was effective in waking up the sleeping environmental affection instilled in almost everyone on this planet.

If I were in their shoes, I guess that I would not think twice of doing the same thing. With all the modernization and technological advancements that we are savoring, do admit that every single person is to blame.

These scientists would not protest for nothing and as a citizen, I feel how desperate they are to risk arrest and urge people in bid to resolve this climate crisis.

The alarm has been ringing since then.

asked me this question, I would probably be rich by now. And to answer, I have a very optimistic approach to this matter. We should not lose hope. Right now, I see a generation full of people who are open to change, volunteerism, and fighting off disinformation. People grew tired of the same treatments and are now willing to take a step toward changing that. It is a remarkable scene to witness, and it is an honor to be a part of it.

while we aid the marginalized and those in need. We should practice spreading facts-based information and help stop the escalation of false ones. Respect goes both ways. We should coordinate and give chances to our new government. Let us stay vigilant and call out any wrongdoing. In summary, let us be better citizens.

At the end of the day, we are Filipinos. We are all affected by our decisions. Let the feeling of hope prevail from the fear and sadness we have felt over the past few days. I know it is easier said than done, but it is worth a try. Let us be active in our movement towards a better system and a better Philippines.

We may have lost the battle, but we sure as hell did not lose the war.

transportation whenever possible.

Conserve electricity and water, use paper bags and eco bags instead of plastic, and bring your own spoon, fork, and straw whenever eating at fast food chains or staying at cafes. Also remove unnecessary and trash emails.

As much as possible, dispose your garbage properly and practice the 3Rs. The to-do list goes on and these are just basic yet worthwhile steps in the long run.

Due to delinquency, irreversible havoc is reaped. The clock is ticking, all we can do is to act with urgency.

Protect this only planet we live in at all cost. This is a must for everyone, everywhere.

Do you feel any pressure right now? I hope so.

the voices of the majority as if moving on is a minute-to-win-it activity. Moving on from a loss is not something people can do in a heartbeat. The citizens need time to process what just happened and grieve what might have been. We all need to pray, rest, and think about the people that got away. Just like relationships drifting apart, We have started a movement, we need to have closure. We so we should finish it. Now all deserve to feel what we are more than ever, Filipinos need feeling at the moment. each other. We should also take this time to learn more about “What now?” If I could get politics and immerse ourselves money from the number of in our culture and history. times friends and family have Our advocacies should live on

The pressure is on

Peter Kalmus, a part of the Scientist Rebellion, was one of the NASA scientists who chained himself in the JPMorgan Chase. This bank is known to be one of the world’s largest investors in fossil fuels. Kalmus imperiled his career for the future of the Earth, his sons, and the generations to come.

Climate activists and ecologists of the Scientist Rebellion founded the movement in order to persuade the world leaders and government to start addressing and minimizing the impact of climate change. They have no time for blundering and take every chance to remind and raise awareness to people, yet only very few heed to their calls.

Note that it takes a global effort to fix this, but step one starts with you, in ourselves.

Humans are the root of this devastation, perhaps, humans are also key to resolving this. Start with simple solutions now– there is no more room for procrastinating.

Reduce your own carbon footprint by walking, biking, and using public

11

See, the pursuit of profit had cost the priceless nature.

So spread awareness until it compels the higher authorities. Keep demanding for the larger corporations and companies to be obliged and partake in halting the impact of climate change, knowing that they are the main perpetrators. They spawned majority of pollution that contributes to the biggest share in the ongoing global warming. If only these companies and institutions started to cooperate, then the Earth can eventually breathe.

Stiil, the alarm will continue ringing.

It will only be silenced once good faith efforts are made– ultimately.

Truth be told, this was just once a science lesson that is taught during primary years of education. However, the lessons we learned just sank and were forgotten to be applied.

January- June 2022

Breaking the chains of misogyny It is no secret that Philippine society is not as progressive as it muses itself to be when it comes to its treatment towards women. From the weaponization of scandals and leaked videos, to the ad-hominem attacks against a woman’s appearance rather than the evaluation of her character as a whole, as well as normalized misogyny; society has put a premium on the condemnation of womanhood.

There is an air of deeply-rooted shame that is burdened upon Filipino women as they grow older. Life lessons are taught through warnings, whereas their counterparts are always encouraged to simply strive for their goals. This may seem like a smaller social issue, but it has come to the point that it is so rooted in our society that denigration creeps into becoming a norm in the lives of everyday Filipino women; this bleeds out especially during pivotal moments in history, such as the upcoming elections. Within the campaigning period of the different electoral bets and partylists alone, we can already see how women are painted in contrasting views: some portray strong, intelligent women, others show women who conform to the male standards of success, and others blatantly continue to objectify women for a cheap laugh.

Beyond political agendas, the degradation of womanhood is very much alive, more so thriving. With the rise of social media and the concept of dark humor, misogyny is modernized through content from the internet. Lest we forget the several sex scandals leaked onto social media, with netizens jokingly asking for links and berating the women within the video. It seems as if blaming women for scandals (that often aren’t even true or posted within their consent). It seems that in some way, women are always the one to blame for things they were never responsible for.

In the struggle for a better tomorrow, it is important to recognize the small things that contribute to everyday misogyny: the idea that only women are capable of doing household work, the idea that womanhood is only fulfilled through traditional means such as motherhood, shaming, Where women are told to strive in domesticated fields and to take on more traditional roles, men are always told to take advantage of their surroundings, and are told to strive for greatness. Women who strive for the same things in life are ridiculed and belittled for their achievements, whereas some men have a sense of entitlement that they are destined to succeed.

In this new era of gender fluidity, breaking stereotypes and breaking norms, perhaps it is time for us to completely acknowledge as a society that we cannot continue to let the little things become bigger and bigger. Our traditional values have taught us to de-value those around us, and it may be the time to show that we are the generation of true change.

This is not a callout to men, per se; but this is a callout to the actions of men that lead to the inequality and injustices towards women.

But this is also a message of empowerment; a message that clearly states that womanhood should not be equated to weakness, but there should be strength found within it.

Social Media Managers

Editor-in-Chief

Russel Anthony P. Loreto

Associate Editor

Zoe Natividad

Managing Editor

Jean Andrei G. Senen

News Editor

Sophia Vivian B. Datu

Technical Adviser

Mr. Divino L. Cantal Jr.

Head of Writers Features Editor Literary Editor Creative Director Head of Graphics Head of Layout Head of Illustrators Head of Social Media Managers

Lianne Gwyn Prado Elinjane Vinson Jasper Liquigan Joe Asher Fuentes Edward Quatro Mhary Well Telebrico Malachi Castro Julia Ysabel Espiritu

GRAPHICS Astrid Sophia Doña Lawrelyn Joy D. Limpiada Anjelo Ralph V. Vargas Jade Riz-anne M. De Leon Mary Jeanina C. Alba Stephanie G. Dela Cruz Fatima O. Concepcion Jowie Ann D. Fetizanan Alexsandra Joy O. Juarez Iveh C. Daganio Najera Princess Angel Grace Shelly Mae T. Calimag Loren Hannah M. Coronel LAYOUT ARTISTS Patricia Mae C Buenviaje Astrid Sophia Doña Alexandra B. Soares Jade Riz-anne M. De Leon Abrantes Kaira Grace P. Diaz Larah Michaella C. Beyao Mary Jeanina C. Alba

Julia Ysabel Quirino Espiritu Lianne Gwyn Prado Kate Parojinog Gullem Staff Writers: Marian Gabrielle C. Bullag Charles Worren E. Laureta Jessa Mae G. Gabasa Alexandra B. Calanoc Tuason, Gino Gabriel D. Elinjane S. Vinson Franchesca Lein M. Badinas Molly Delany F. Delizo Mikaela Nicole Q. Rapadas

DOCUMENTATION Kristina V. Pelobello Hannah Mae Grace C. Lolor Jessa Mae G. Gabasa Lexine Caryl N. Soriano Michael Evan B. Parocha ILLUSTRATORS Sheryl Leih S. Gonzalez Astrid Sophia Doña Sophia Ysabelle B. Pajo Mary Jeanina C. Alba Jowie Ann D. Fetizanan Rianne M. Flores

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