The Work Magazine (Vol. 70 Issue No. 1)

metanoia

T H E O F F I C I A L M A G A Z I N E O F TA R L A C S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y - T H E W O R K VOLUME LXX

ISSUE NO. I

the work

editorial board and staff 2018-2019 PAULINE GRACE B. MANZANO Editor in Chief ISAIH KYLE C. UMIPIG Associate Editor/Development Communication Editor JESSA A. SOMBRITO Managing Editor CREISHA MAE S. DIMABAYAO ANDREA S. ESPINOSA Associate Managing Editors LORDDAN U. FALLER News Editor JANELLE PAMELA R. DAVID Features Editor ANDREA NICOLE B. SAPNU Literary Editor

ABOUT THE COVER A handful of clay mud can craft a pot. Some people want it to be stylish and fine-looking, so they adorn it with golden beads. But a pot made out of mud is beautiful as it is.

An ancestral land can shelter a community.

Leaders want development, so they use highend machines and costly budget to fulfill it completely. But for a community which became a bigger family, their land is a home where they always want to be.

Your idea of rarity is not the same as theirs.

Most importantly, Your concept of development can be unlike with the others.

ARSENIO S. SANTIAGO, JR. Sports Editor JOSEPH CARLO M. PINEDA Layout Editor KENNETH LEO V. PAMLAS Graphics Editor GABRIEL JANN S. INOCENCIO Senior Cartoonist NICA JOY A. CALMA Senior Photojournalist JOAN ROBIN T. MARTINEZ JEJOMAR B. CONTAWE LANDER VICTOR G. TEJADA CHRISTIAN Q. DELA PENA ALBRITCH ADAM A. LABIANO GIANNE MERIELLE P. GONZALES JAN GUSFEL C. DUNGCA Correspondents NIKKIE JOY T. PACIFICO Cartoonist VIANA MARIE M. PITACIO Layout Artist DR. GLADIE NATHERINE G. CABANIZAS Adviser

METANOIA is the official magazine of The Work, the official student publication of Tarlac State University in Tarlac City, Philippines founded in 1948. It is a member of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines, the oldest existing alliance of student publications in the country committed to uphold students’ rights and press freedom. It is now on its Volume 70 Issue No. 1. No part of this publication may be used or reproduced in any form or by any means without the permission of writers, artists, and the publication.

Copyright © 2018

LABINET TARROSA (center), 44, is a wife to Lagundino Tarrosa, tribal chieftain of Sitio Caoayan in Capas, Tarlac. She is one of the women in their community who are ill with goiter.

Their case is at odds because the world has been remedied with the illness, but the rest of them were left behind the morass of teething troubles. But more than the humps in their necks, a more pressing problem arise as their Aeta brothers and sisters face weightier struggles with their own ancestral lands.

Cover by

Pauline Grace B. Manzano and Isaih Kyle C. Umipig

metanoia

CONTENTS FEATURES | DEVCOM | NEWS | SPORTS

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EDITORIAL AND OPINION A Bumpy Bridge Second Chances Long Lost Ride Preyed Predators

FEATURES

URDU: 53 Crafted Years of Thriving Restaurant-Bakeshop

32

ARTS

Alipato: Enkindling the Fervor of Tarlac Artists

54 SPORTS

Bench Warmers: The Battle of Unsung Heroes

19

INDUSTRY

40 DEVCOM

Mothers of the Mourning Mountains

70

On Framing Success in Business

LITERARY

Synchronized End Times Devil’s Hour

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HEADLINES

CAFA alumna hits 2nd spot in architecture board TSU students accelerate by 10,000

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1: A heavy, silver-colored metal that is difficult to melt and that is used

especially in expensive jewelry 2: The symbolism of platinum was tied to rarity and exclusiveness;

symbol of true love, purity, rarity, and strength

platinum \ˈpla-tə-nəm\

editors’ note We all have our own identities; we all have flaws. Genetically, we do not share the same physical traits and abilities.

This uniqueness is what makes us rare— rare in the form that we must embrace ourselves regardless of how the community sees us.

They say that being different is a good thing.

It makes us unique; it makes us stand out from everyone else.

Being different excludes us from the factions this society has constructed, which they told us to abide because it is where we belong to.

Rarity can create a difference. Thus, this difference is what makes your existence.

We are full of pride to present to you this year’s official magazine, Metanoia, which highlights the lacking of scrutiny of Tarlac province’s hidden gems.

As The Work celebrates its platinum year, we dare you not to hide but to completely show the rarity in you.

The recognition of their rarity should not only be limited on appreciation, but also the need to embrace its divergence.

Pauline Grace B. Manzano Editor in Chief

Janelle Pamela R. David Features Editor

Cartoon by Gabriel Jann Inocencio

N AT I O N :

A BUMPY BRIDGE

A

fter adding two years to the academic life of the first batch of graduates of the K-12 curriculum, they now have entered the threshold of college.

But there are some bumps along the provision that must be addressed, the focal issue of which was the bridging program set by the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) particularly for senior high school graduates who decided to shift from their original choice of specialization.

On the academic tracks of the said curriculum, the students can choose one of the four strands as a preparatory course for tertiary education. These strands are: (1) Accountancy, Business, and Management (ABM), (2) Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), (3) Humanities and Social Science (HUMMS), and (4) General Academic Strand (GAS) dedicated for students who are still undecided which course they are going to take.

The bridging program, fundamentally, was a policy designed to give shifting students a “chance” to take up prerequisite subjects for their second-choice course.

In effect, if a HUMMS graduate changes his mind and chooses to enroll under a course that is only meant for STEM graduates, civil engineering for example, he would need to undergo through the bridging program to take up basic engineering subjects, upon which he has to endure additional units of subjects for him to continue with the course.

At a glance, it seems only fair and just for the students to take the bridging program as a prerequisite for them to finally enroll in the course of their second choice. But the hassle and lengthened time it would take for the completion gives downright inconvenience toward the students.

The additional two years alone had taken an emotional, physical, and financial toll among the students of the new curriculum. Those two years will be wasted yet again as the students who wanted to shift from their preliminary choice of a college course will be required to undergo through the bridging program. In consequence, the students with whom such policies are supposedly serving are ironically loaded with more subjects and whose road toward obtaining a degree is virtually impeded.

One noteworthy aspect that can be reasoned out here is that there are schools that do not offer all the academic tracks in senior high. That is to say, a student would be left with no choice but to take what the school, which is notably just proximate to his place of residence, offers instead of undergoing through the

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bustle and hassle of enrolling in a faraway and expensive private school just to attend his classes.

Such students are not to blame for this, and entirely dismiss the focal issue as nothing short of an indecisiveness and irresolution among them.

At Tarlac State University, students from the former curriculum who decided to shift in another course are assessed in the Guidance Office through an aptitude test aiming to provide information for career guidance that can be perceived through the test result with which the student had been required to take. If the result is fitting with the second course with which the student chose, and enough briefing had been done for the student’s degree of certainty in shifting, only then shall his shifting form be signed from the Guidance Office up to his new college dean and finally enroll to his second-chosen field of specialization.

This practice of the old curriculum worked and were in fact student-friendly, so why the bridging program that would only burden the students more with the additional, if not redundant, subjects?

It is saddening that state-sanctioned, neoliberal policies like this is oblivious of the students and of their vulnerabilities. The prospect of another set of subjects and the likelihood of summer or midyear classes for potential shifters who already had enough from the extra two years they spent in senior high is in all bounds unfavorable on their part as students and as human beings at large. We want the students to graduate fulfilled, not tremendously exhausted.

Through the bridging program, the path of the students towards obtaining their college diploma becomes all the more difficult to attain than what was expected. Students and parents alike were already caught off guard with the strenuous six-year requirement for the completion of high school, and now the journey of the students toward the proverbial domain of academic success, along with their parents who are supporting them in all aspects, is extended big time.

At the prospective time when they should have been unwinding and free from the stress of academics, the possible midyear classes will render them a year-long of academic life, essentially break-deprived. The said ‘program,’ basically, just holds them back, almost back to square one.

The bridge that was to be crossed by shifting students of the new curriculum is a bumpy one. It threatens to delay the prospect of academic success that could have been lesser taxing and burdensome to accomplish for them. We dare to hope that the students, our future nation builders, will not find themselves enormously at the receiving end of this seemingly anti-student policy. We dare to hope for their “on time” graduation, which might be a little less possible as they are obliged to cross the bumpy bridge towards obtaining their college diploma.

EDITORIAL ON CAMPUS:

second chances

S

ome students realize not in time their forte and waste their time on the wrong course. In some cases, they fail and fall behind and the best option for them is to shift. Because of this, no matter how well they do in their new course, even if they achieve the qualifying general average, they will never graduate with Latin honors. The student handbook guarantees that they will not.

There is a section in Chapter 4 of the Student Handbook which states that a student may shift to another course if, in the opinion of the Dean, the student is not “academically suited” for the course. This directly implies that when a student is performing poorly in his or her enrolled course, the Dean may approve his application to shift, with hopes that he may perform differently in another course.

With this section, the University shows its optimism and tells that failure in one course does not guarantee that the student is holistically unintelligent, especially when he or she only failed in major subjects prescribed in his course. The failure will be pardoned, but excellence in the new course will not anymore be recognized and compensated. The failure is not forgotten.

The Section 5, Chapter 13 of the university’s student handbook provides no second chances. It states that a candidate for graduation with honors “should not have any grade lower than 3.0 and/or unremoved ‘incomplete’ or ‘INC’ in any academic or nonacademic subject, whether prescribed or not in his/her curriculum.”

This section is ignored because it is a no-brainer that a candidate for graduation should not have failing grades. However, for shifters, this section is a written tragedy. Even if a student achieves perfect 1.0’s in all subjects prescribed in his or her course, which basically means that the student is likely to be a Summa Cum Laude, a failing grade in a subject not prescribed in his course will disqualify him from graduating with honors.

A student may strongly claim that he or she is not academically suited to his course when he failed in one of his major subjects. Going back, one of the reasons why students shift is they are not academically suited to their course. Therefore, the University allows students to shift, but will not recognize their academic excellence in the course they will be shifting to.

What is written in the student manual makes a notion that the University is optimist but is almost unforgiving to shifters. It requires the students to perform satisfyingly in major subjects prescribed in a course not suited to them just to remain qualified for graduation with honors.

The University may not have considered that the students may have initially enrolled in a course they were pressured to take but is not their forte, and that the course may hamper the talent and intelligence of the students. The students could have also realized it late that they are not academically suited to the course they enrolled.

One may argue that failing grade means negligence or stupidity. When the student failed out of negligence, the Dean may not permit the student to shift and require the student to retake the subject. In case of honest failure, the student may either retake the subject and continue his course, or he may shift and excel in another course.

The University assumes that students who deserve and want to graduate with honors have already figured out their academic course prior to their admission to the university.

However, it must be taken into consideration that students stepping into tertiary education are too young to figure all these things, including the technicalities. Therefore, Section 5 of Chapter 13 is unnecessary, and it must be restricted only to subjects prescribed in the course completed and leave space for the students to correct their decisions without getting disqualified for graduating with honors.

One may also argue that the policies written in the student handbook was formulated and agreed upon by the Board of Regents and the university heads in consultation with the students. This argument implies that the Student Handbook is perfect. But, not even the Philippine Constitution is perfect. If imperfections are spotted, there must be amendments to make the code work flawlessly again.

Latin honors are phrases that indicate level of distinction and are used to acknowledge students who have completed their courses with great academic performance. If shifters have completed the course they shifted to with great academic performance, there is not a single reason to deprive them of their well-deserved distinction.

Cartoon by Gabriel Jann Inocencio

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Long lost ride INNOVATION: As we cope with the transition that technology had brought us, we might also consider its positive and negative effects. Can it really build and change our society for good or maybe, we are just all part of the new experiment?

W

e are all living in the new generation today; a generation where you will find easy to live in because of the technology that occupies our own space.

This technology affects people’s lifestyle, both positively and negatively. Although we must say that our old generation must cope with this transition, we must first think if this innovation will truly work. Also, there are a lot of factors that can be considered: time, money, people, place, etc.

IRIDESCENT WORDS pauline grace b. manzano editor in chief bs civil engineering

“

After which, modernization is just the current term for our old process.”

It was my fourth year in the civil engineering program when I have encountered this subject, called Transportation Engineering. In this class, we have tackled some laws regarding the involvement of vehicles and their applications in our environment. One thing I will not forget in that course is when my professor asked us this question: “Are we truly ready for the implementation of the Clean Air Act?” So I immediately asked myself too. Are we ready?

Republic Act No. 8749 or the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 conditions that the state shall promote and protect the global environment to attain sustainable development while recognizing the primary responsibility of local government units to deal with environmental problems. In line with this is the air quality management policy and a program which aims to maintain healthy air quality for all Filipinos.

Iconic Phaseout Earlier in January 2018, the effectivity of the jeepney phaseout gave abuzz in the community as it was announced that all jeepneys, 15 years and older, will be replaced by electric-powered Euro 4 compliant vehicles. Also, this is said to be one of the solutions to decongest the trafficchoked streets of the country’s urban areas.

With the use of electric-powered engines, these new vehicles would be more environmentfriendly and will lessen the air pollution in the country. But besides the foreseen improvement, many jeepney owners and drivers do not fully support the transition.

The Protests Last March of 2018, Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (Piston) held a strike against the phaseout along Aurora Blvd. in Cubao, Quezon City. The sudden implementation resulted to arguments between the sides of the jeepney drivers and the Department of Transportation. The context of oppositions seems troublesome if we do not study the facts.

Truly enough, jeepney drivers welcomed the idea of having a better transport system. But drivers raised an important question: who will

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pay for the modern jeepneys? The price of these is about 1.4 million pesos. How can working class drivers pay for that?

“Hindi po tayo tutol sa modernization pero tutol tayo sa Jeepney Phaseout na isinusulong ng pamahalaan sa ilalim ng pekeng negosyong modernization program,” George San Mateo, president of Piston, said.

Financial Assistance The government, under the Development Bank of the Philippines’ Program Assistance to Support Alternative Driving Approaches (PASADA), promised to provide assistance amounting to P1.5 billion to transport firms and cooperatives to purchase new public utility jeepneys. That is why Sec. Arthur Tugade stated that jeepney phaseout is not “anti-poor.”

Even though they presented the government’s seven-year payment plan plus a subsidy of P80,000, a common Filipino driver has to worry about paying monthly due of P19,000 for next seven years. What if they only earn P500 pesos a day and now they have to pay monthly, how much will be left for them to feed their families? Moreover, the phaseout will cost a displacement to the livelihood of around an estimate of 600,000 jeepney drivers nationwide.

Modernization has to be made not at the expense of the poor losing their jobs or their money, or even losing the iconic jeepney of our country. We can still do a lot of options like upgrading the engines into an electric type and maintaining the iconic vehicle design. *** Clearly, until now, we are not yet ready for the implementation of the clean air act. Because if we are ready, why all these problems are still arising even this act has been implemented 19 years ago? Maybe because the government is just imposing laws without looking for its possible negative outcomes; rather, they focus only on its short-term cure.

This jeepney phaseout project will surely contribute in lessening the possible air pollution that out country is currently facing due to the non-electric engine vehicle that belches smoke which can harm people.

Modernization is good but admit it or not, it takes so much time to fully run it smoothly. We must consider the time frame and the process of how we would react and cope with the sudden change. After which, modernization is just the current term for our old process.

Change is inevitable but we must learn first about how we must fully cope with and accept the transition before we let ourselves and our countrymen be occupied by innovation.

preyed predators ON WORKERS’ RIGHTS: Everyone is a prey in a society where privileged predators are always above, looking down to their self-fabricated foes—the struggling masses.

A

food chain is a photograph of a society of preys, predators, and preys that became predators.

I was on Netflix on a Monday morning with a cup of tea on the table. That’s when I decided to watch this celebrated film titled “Birdshot.” My eyes are not acquaintances with movies but they always bat an eyelid to breathtaking cinematography, nail-biting musical scoring, and unexpected twists and turns. The film has re-opened gates—gates which are no longer welcoming; entrances which have been barred since eternity. While it tried to discover who killed the Philippine eagle, it also discussed relevant points such as corruption of those in the position and farmers who were killed just because they were asking for genuine land reform.

The current situation of the country can be regarded as the same with the film’s cunning manifestation of a food chain. There are people who are being killed, jailed, and harassed. There are people behind it. There are also people who are asked to do it. But, after all these, we are all but just victims of the one percent of the privileged and ruling class.

When the ‘lords’ say, “Let there be blood,” there will always be blood. That is how powerful they are that even the value of a person, they tend to monetize.

Filipino families, meanwhile, have developed a lucid picture filled with tales and threads around a dining table. It is not foreign for us to share stories about friends, about how our day went, about the childhood memories of our parents, about our neighbor’s new house during dinner time. As we dunk our favorite fried chicken to a local banana ketchup, it also leads us to a more vivid image of an undying struggle of workers, of peasants, and perhaps, of the primary backbone of the country’s economy.

Recently, the violations towards our ordinary workers are continuously elevating in number and that alone makes me think when will the violence stop? How many households were ruined because of a lost father? How many of those homes were dimmed just because a mother was taken away from them?

We do not know the possibilities, and if we did not respond to the call of those who are crying, bleeding, it is with no doubts that cruelty will reach even our safest spaces.

According to the International Trade Union Confederation’s 2018 Global Rights Index, Philippines earned yet another distinction as one of the 10 worst countries in the world for workers’ rights, with Filipino workers more likely to encounter “violence” and “intimidation and reprisals.” This is a raucous slap direct to our faces as Filipinos who, I believe, are hardworking, selfless, and dedicated persons.

It is true that when a worker dies, a portion of a family becomes wounded. But more than that, a nation will also starve and die. They are the ones who toil all day to provide enough sustenance to every Filipino.

If someone sets plans on killing them, that someone also forbids us from consuming the necessities we all deserve.

Aside from carrying their families in their backs, they also carry with them their struggles as workers of the country. Their allout determination is sometimes plunged in the morass of contracts, unjust payment, abusive demands, and muddled benefits which is why, sometimes, although a person is very much dedicated with his work, everything goes off track because of unjustifiable whys and wherefores.

Killings, arrests and detention, threats, harassment, and physical assault are some of the offspring of the resistance of peasants and workers for their rights. These are only some of the many different faces of human rights violations in the list but lead us to only one battle cry: “Stop the killings! End contractualization!” When all is said and done, violence can never be a substitute for compensation.

The ruling class will never stop from inflicting violence to those who are telling them to stop all the unjustifiable acts they are doing. Once and for all, the ruling class will do anything that benefits them, anything for their personal interests. As long as their acts are after them—even the rights of the many are being set aside—they will still do it no matter what.

The bloodshed continues to flow as these ‘small men’ speak for their rights, for what they are deprived of. Justice, meanwhile, remains elusive for the families who have lost their loved ones just because of not being silent; nonetheless, being silent will never be wrong when you are fighting for yourself, for your rights, for what you believe is right. The challenge is now.

primary colors isaih kyle c. umipig associate editor bsed english

“

Violence can never be a substitute for compensation.”

Looking back to Birdshot’s tale, the major character and her father became targets of the policemen’s ruthless acts, but little did we discern that the policemen themselves are also just mere preys. Everyone, counting in the unfortunate massacred farmers, belongs to the bottommost portion of the country’s food chain. Everyone is a prey in a society where privileged predators are always above, looking down to their self-fabricated foes— the struggling masses.

Now, the real problem will haunt us: is the society’s food chain a triangular structure where the predators are atop it or are we all just bottom-dwelling preys of what the society’s manifestoes dictated us to do?

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Our Bloody Choice POLITICS: The decision of who to choose among the political candidates is as difficult as the decision of whether to run for a position or not. Both decisions are critical in creating either an effective or a disjointed government.

I

n third grade, my teacher asked us what we want to be when we grow up. “To become a doctor,” I answered.

Unfamiliar with what they really do, I justified my answer with the most impressive intentions a child can come up with—to help others and save lives.

Every time someone asks me the same question, I had the same answer. Until I came to understand how things work in my generation, realizing that helping others and saving lives are not my genuine intentions, nor medicine is the field I wanted to pursue.

As a child, I could count on my fingers all the jobs I know at the time. Few choices to pick from, easier decision to make.

However, my early life decisions have lead me to a different ground; away from my childhood dream.

BACK TO BASICS JOSEPH CARLO M. PINEDA LAYOUT EDITOR bs civil engineering

“

Every family that his ‘war’ has broken is only one justification of our bad decisionmaking in choosing our leaders.”

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There are times when the choices we make draw us apart from our dreams but keep us in doing good as we rely our decisions on what we believe is right. In one way, our choices bring us closer to our desires but cost us our being righteous as we decide to take the easier but wrongful path. In the Philippine politics, the latter always overcomes.

Change of mind is a powerful yet a dangerous move in the politics. But it happens as much as our principles constantly change, hence our personal commitments too. One day, we watch a comedian becomes a senate president while covering up an abandoned high-profile rape case. The next day, we see how one of the world’s greatest boxers turns himself into the most bigoted lawmaker.

Running for a position is not a choice some people make because they merely want to serve; sometimes, it only becomes a choice because it is an opportunity people are eager to grab as it gives them more advantages. Being a world pro-boxer or a popular comedian is already a fulfilling ambition for others, but a seat in the senate is more of a dream for some.

Those who run have their own considerations and motives why they fight for a seat in the government. Their potential agenda and platforms are the basis of our choice. Our only work is to evaluate our choices to make sure our vote will go to the right candidate. ***

We probably heard all these versions of stories about wrong decision-making in our government except for one—the Rodrigo Duterte’s version. The one we choose not to listen to because we deny the fact that not every decision he makes is right.

It was in late 2015 when Duterte announced that he will not be running for the presidency. A month later and the filing of certificates of candidacy has already ended, he withdrew his first statement and finally decided to run for the position due to some considerations.

Many Filipinos may have seen a better nation during his tenure, but not in the eyes of a child who lost his blameless father; a family whose breadwinner was murdered because of mistaken identity; or a mother whose son was shot killed by a stray bullet—all because of the “drug war” he initiated. Ironically, the safety that he promised has caused even more fear to the innocent Filipinos—fear of being killed while wandering the streets that were not marked with terror before. As he tries hard to eliminate the evils in this country, he compromises the lives of his people.

Every family that his “war” has broken is only one justification of our bad decisionmaking in choosing our leaders. We prefer popularity and legacy. We are blinded by their ambitious platforms. Now that we see the consequences, we still refuse to admit that we made the wrong decision and we choose to continue worshipping a man who has no respect for women, life, and human rights.

After all, it was not his candidacy that was a mistake; it was our choice. Today, we drown in this predicament rooted from the decision we made during the 2016 elections. The chance we gave him was rather used not only to lead us but also to destroy families and to gamble our lands with opportunist countries and put us in debt, only to name a few.

Change has come and it will always come whoever serves as our leader. The change that we seek does not refer to the one in his campaign slogan that once fooled us, but it is the change that we make individually. It is the change of mind we consciously commit during our decision-making, beginning from the profession we decide to pursue to the candidate we choose to lead.

fifth stage of ego MENTAL HEALTH: Disabilities, whether it is visible or not, deserve the equal attention they are supposed to be getting. Just because someone’s struggle is not seen through the naked eye does not mean it is not valid.

A

s I embark on the journey of my last year in the university (if I graduate on time), I cannot help but become nostalgic, though my memory has its ways to fail me somehow. I cannot remember where all the time went for the past three years. I just saw how my face changes in my fading identification card; how the pathway is surrounded with fresh faces of college admission test takers; how my old professors retire; how the waiting in the long lines of the cashier isn’t new anymore; how I’ve been battered by long quizzes and exams and completely forgot what is a good night sleep. I wanted to remember when did I decide to pursue a degree in Psychology— but of course, I had a hard time precisely remembering when I knew, but I know it started with a gut feeling.

In 2016, statistics showed that in the Philippines, 7 to 20% of Filipino adults and 10 to 15% of Filipino children experience psychological disorders. With a population of a hundred million, there are only 700 psychiatrists and a thousand psychiatric nurses; roughly only one psychiatrist for 150,000 Filipinos. A National Statistics Office (NSO) report also shows that mental health illnesses are also the third most common form of morbidity among Filipinos. Mental health, in all aspects—especially in funding on facilities, medical and professional help as well as awareness is still on the state of obscurity in the country.

My parents, as well as my siblings, did not like the idea of me pursuing Psychology in the first place. My parents were, of course, supportive but they never thought that I would pursue a program that is quite unfamiliar and unconventional at the time. My older siblings wanted me to pursue something else— medical, educational-related fields and told me to think twice. But at the age of 14, I had an answer. I was still lucky enough to be able to choose my own program.

Psychological disorders do not choose any person of particular socio-economic status: high, middle, or it may even hit the defenseless class of the society—the poor, as well as the vulnerability of the young. The cost of psychiatric help is not really budget-friendly— in Metro Manila, a private session with a psychiatrist ranges from P2,000 to P3,000 and it depends on the case the patient will come once or twice a month. The government currently runs only four mental facilities in the country and the majority of mental institutions are located in Metro Manila. In the region, there is only one mental facility which is located in Bataan, the Mariveles Mental Ward.

As I ascend through and my years filled with more psychological knowledge comes with more realizations and responsibilities that made me felt doubtful about my program. Last semester, I had to take one of the fundamental courses of my program: Psychological Assessment (which is by the way contains 40% of the board licensure examination for Psychometricians), where we are taught the integration of psychologyrelated data for the purpose of making psychological evaluations—also basically one of the core purposes of Psychology. In one particular discussion, my professor in this course was sharing his own experiences as a professional in the field of Psychology and suddenly he blurted out one of the statements I cannot forget: “Mahirap tumulong [ng tao].”

On June 21, President Rodrigo Duterte has finally signed the Republic Act 11036, or Philippine Mental Health Law, proponent which primarily aims to give better access to mental health care. The law also seeks to supply mental health services from a macro level, national to the micro level, barangays. It also aims to integrate mental health programs in hospitals, improve mental health facilities and promote mental health education in school and workplaces. It has been a major victory for mental health advocates as well as the whole community. With this newly enacted law, mental health is finally progressing, but breaking the stigma and educating the wider community are still a challenge. We must ensure that this law does not exclude the poor, marginalized sectors as well as the LGBTQIA+ community.

Then it hit me. When I was a child, I wanted to become a missionary. I was one of those kids who hoped for a kinder world.

With a future helping profession that focuses on the mental well-being of a person, all my doubts and fears while pursuing this program were rooted on facts that I wasn’t really making a difference or at least helping people. I was really down to the point that I even asked my parents if it’s okay if I can shift to another program, on my junior year, where I am a year closer to finishing my degree.

The battle for a country that provides a comprehensive mental health care is still on passage. But as individuals, we still have the biggest role in the improvement of the mental health community. We must stay empathetic in a world where kindness is a rare commodity.

We cannot simply give up on people—to be a helping hand to those who cannot stand up for themselves, to those who are still in the shadow of a hindrance. I still think I am that kindergarten who believes in a kinder world. I simply cannot give up on this program, on this profession.

LISTEN TO DAVID, GOLIATH JANELLE PAMELA R. DAVID FEATURES EDITOR AB PSYCHOLOGY

“

We must stay empathetic in a world where kindness is a rare commodity.”

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oppressed freedom PRESS WORK: The role of the campus press in advancing the struggles of the Filipino people is crucial to the emancipation of educational institutions from their social and political indifference.

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o write is already to choose. This dictum, which I first encountered years ago, did not really register to me immediately upon hearing it. What choice is there to make when it came to writing? The idea of this choice was not so clearly spelled out to me by those whom I heard it from—and it was only after I spelled it out for myself that I realized the choice that I had to make not only as a writer but also as a Filipino.

ode to the nameless andrea s. espinosa associate managing editor bsba marketing management

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At a time when State fascism directly attacks journalism, every printed word becomes a testament to our call for freedom.”

In the past, I used to always disagree with people every time they would ask if I am a writer.

Though I have been writing since the age of 10, I always tried to shy away from being labeled as a “writer” as if being one is something to be ashamed of. Truth is, I am not ashamed; I have always held writing in a high regard ever since I first picked up the pen and used it as a key to open the doors of campus journalism. I simply did not think that I deserved to be called a writer because personally, I know that I lack a deep sense of purpose which I couldn’t resolve. Nonetheless, my discomfort when it came to branding myself as a writer never really went away, even as I achieved numerous accolades and established a track for myself.

The day I stepped foot on the threshold of campus journalism was not necessarily the same day that I realized its true meaning. That day came years after when I decided to turn my back from the superficiality of competitions. I slowly realized that campus journalism is not just an extracurricular activity for those who wanted to write; it is a breeding ground for students who are bold, opinionated, and critical to the different forms of oppression that subjugate the Filipino society and threatens our democracy.

Campus press, especially in universities, must not simply limit themselves inside the premises of the campus. As journalists, we are expected to hold by our mandate to serve the studentry. However, the campus press and its constituents are both members of the Filipino masses before anything else. This accounts for our duty to open the eyes of our fellow students and unshackle them from their indifference, making them aware of the social issues that are interrelated with campus journalism.

In the Philippines, the rich history of journalism dates back to as early as the Spanish regime, when the ilustrados penned the Filipino people’s call for freedom with the Propaganda movement.

Fast forward to 1931, student journalists from universities established the College Editors Guild of the Philippines (CEGP), the biggest and longest-running intercollegiate alliance of student publications in the country which aims to advance the rights of the Filipino people through the power of the campus press.

This history has been marred by countless issues surrounding repression, beginning when student publications were held under the tyrant rule of the Marcos regime. Student activists and journalists were brutally subjected to harassment

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and killings, and many were forced to go “underground” and do their work away from the prying eyes of the military. The campus press during these times played a very critical role in upholding the call for genuine democracy against the Marcos dictatorship.

Even in the present times, student publications still face different forms of campus press freedom violations. CEGP enumerates these violations as censorship, administrative intervention, withholding of funds, adviser-meddling, libel, suspension or expulsion, non-mandatory collection of funds, harassment and killings. According to their records, there are over 800 unresolved cases of campus press freedom violations and more cases still seem to rise under the Duterte regime.

Most of the harassment cases are directed towards progressive campus journalists who are redtagged, or assumed to be members of the Leftist movement.

In a report from the Manila Bulletin, other member publications of the CEGP—The Pillars of Ateneo de Naga University, The Seafarers’ Gazette of Mariners Polytechnic College Foundation, and The Stateans Publication of Central Bicol State University of Agriculture were also allegedly placed on the watchlist because of their progressive and militant reporting. Meanwhile, The Independent Sentinel of the Lyceum of the Philippines University also experienced suppression of the press, when their administration blatantly meddled with their operations and reportedly threatened to shut down the publication.

The rise in the number of campus repressions cases leaves us with a reminder that the power of journalism in today’s society is still as resilient as ever. This only goes to show how student publications critically pose a threat to the State with only the use of their pens and voices.

The role, then, of campus journalists goes way beyond winning press conferences as well as our limited coverage of school-related issues. As members of the press, we must abandon our selfserving interests and fix our mindset into our duty of serving the Filipino people. At a time when State fascism directly attacks journalism, every printed word becomes a testament to our call for freedom.

The purpose of producing campus papers does not end with its release; rather, it shall continuously aim to open up a critical discourse among the students and the public.

To write is already to choose, and it is from our own principles and ethics that choices are born. In writing for the campus press, we must choose to direct the stroke of our pens towards the interest of the Filipino people. Being a writer should compel us to shift our vocabulary from the trivial pursuits of life to the selfless act of defending our country from this worsening social injustice. Writers are individuals, first and foremost—but it is through collective solidarity with the people that we will find our genuine voice and our very own sense of purpose.

IN defense of introverts PSYCHOLOGY: In a famously extroverted country like the Philippines, introversion is being regarded negatively as almost a problem in pathology. But yes, introverts are often less than outgoing, but always far more than just “mahiyain.”

L

oner.

That’s how I was called when a high school batchmate saw me alone in a corner outside the university premises, digging dirt that got stuck in my fingernails.

He seemed to take pride in being accompanied with guys tailing along with him, whereas I was alone, my head bowed, and looking awkward with thick eyeglasses.

But he’s right: I am a loner, an individualist, an introvert. There’s truly nothing to be ashamed of that. While there is yet a study that precisely sums the world’s population that falls into the introversion spectrum, in the United States alone, however, about one-third to half of their population regard themselves as introverts, which is only indicative of an age that no longer typically revels in noise but also in the most quiet of places, be it in your bed absorbed within the pages of a good book or at an empty coffee shop enjoying the calm while writing down a piece of poetry that you’ve been working on for weeks.

In her brilliant book Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking, Susan Cain cited various factors as to how introverts are great and capacitated of great things, setting aside the stereotyping tags antisocial, weirdo, and/or self-centered that they – we – get from people who may have lacked knowledge about introversion and its many misconceptions.

The self-proclaimed introverted author said it best that introverts are not necessarily shy or socially inept (although a good many of the kind, to say the least, can possess this trait), in that introverts are simply the ones “with a preference for environments that are not overstimulating.”

As an introvert, I profess this to be relatably true.

For when on campus, I would compulsively find a vacant room to review my notes there with the sound of running air-conditioners from the neighboring building as the only source of the noise. When invited by convivial acquaintances for a social gathering, unless it is of utmost importance, I am likely to turn the invitation down, or I would just make a polite excuse not to come. I would rather sleep or finish a book at home in one sitting.

I don’t see anything wrong with that, any more than I see anything wrong with people who feel tremendous discomfort and loneliness when they are alone. There are those who bask in the company of gregarious people they can jam with, and there are those who devote their energies to tasks that do not involve social interaction. The latter is the sort of people who tend to get anxious about the spotlight and would choose to wallow in the darkness instead – provided that the darkness does not necessarily represent horror or a place reeking of melancholic ambience, rather, one that entails peace; a place that’s scarce, if not fully devoid, of all things contributory to noise pollution. It is but

only best to respect our disparate preferences.

As of this writing, it was six months since I became a member of the student publication.

Back then, it took me a while to muster up courage and finally decide upon getting involved in an organization where socializing with others is only of the essence in order to adapt and survive. While my knack for writing that was required is an introvert’s common inclination, the talk-loving tongue and the assertive disposition of an extrovert is also vital among members in an organization. Luckily, as I am with the likes of people no less than my age whose views in life quite resemble that of mine, and where my being a loner is not particularly a big issue, I am not only surviving but enjoying the discussions and activities with my pub mates. As I have so seen it, some extroverted inclinations for a bona fide loner would not hurt. *** It is a stark misconception that we, loners, hardly ever wanted to talk to people. When in fact, we could just as much talk at length and in depth about the things that matter to us, and laugh at silly things as well, should we find the right and likeminded companions with whom we can talk to about the very things that dwell inside our head.

This suddenly brought to mind a friend who unflinchingly described himself as a “caveman” for hardly ever going out of their house. But once when we talked about movies we like, I was amazed at how similar we were that we even discussed plots that we enjoyed. That’s just one of the most amazing things ever. We were laughing hard and were talking boisterously that our classmates might as well have suspected we are lunatics, since they usually see us at the back of the room with him glued to his phone, and I engrossed with a book or taking a nap. But guess what? We are still humans capable of human emotions. It’s just that our kind feel most secure when we’re alone, and there’s no question that this is our comfort zone. It’s just that we feel most secure when we’re alone. Solitude is our best friend.

The loner within me will be there forever – my preference for solitude over company, silence and peace over noise, books and sleep and movies over social gatherings. To my high school batchmate who called me a loner in such a way that undermined every solitude lovers’ value and worth, I regretted not sending you a smile as a response. A smile that would pretty much declare that yes, I am a loner; but no, I am not a lonely loner. I am accompanied by friends in the metaphorical sense.

OF POETS AND COMETS JEJOMAR B. CONTAWE CORRESP0NDENT AB COMMUNICATION

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It’s just that we feel most secure when we’re alone. Solitude is our best friend.”

As what Henry David Thoreau once said, “I never found the companion that was so companionable as solitude.” But when I finally found such a companion, it wouldn’t take me much long to want to be alone again and enjoy my own company, either with a book in hand or a big idea in mind.

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redressing mindset CHARACTER: Expectation is the origin of disappointment which upsets our mentality and behavior. Every time we give a response to each of them, our disposition at the same time changes and is getting more complex.

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t this point in my life, I can say that I am so confused with multiple thoughts that unceasingly bother me. At times, I feel rage, but often, apathy, and this is all because of disappointments.

Disappointment comes from various expectations and oftentimes, the result is a failure which makes us feel frustrated. But failure can be a necessary thing in our life; it is an inevitable case that we should get used to because, otherwise, this could demoralize and demotivate a person.

When the outcome of an occurrence is not as good as what we expected, that’s the time we feel disappointed, and otherwise, we feel ecstasy when it goes beyond expectations. Hence, society punctuates that in terms of disappointment, the bearing of failure is more dominant than that of success because it inculcates agony, wherein, it affects our way of thinking and behaviors.

unsophisticated sense lorddan u. faller news EDITOR bsba financial management

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Altering your aspirations due to unmet expectations is not a solution; you’re running away instead.”

What I am trying to explicate with these viewpoints is that youth in this era are so easy to get dispirited. I want everyone to ponder that there are so many chances to look up for in order to grow into a better individual especially now that disappointment is associated with the feeling of sadness.

This emotion, when gets triggered, a heavy mental distress will be felt. It happens every time we fail because of those expectations that we do not meet. Therefore, disappointment shall be given enough care for it is said in a study that it is the latter step for depression.

In a simpler sense, it all rooted from our eagerness to reach something. Nonetheless, every time we’re being hit by those blasting insights, we’re enthusiastic looking for inputs that we can take on to endure everything. *** The majority are frightened on trying things out, contemplating that they won’t be good and they’ll only be judged. By that, however, we become unaware that we’re mislaying a particular point of our life.

Day-to-day experiences, as we all know, are an endless learning process. We won’t be able to lift our learning curve if we’re not keen to be equipped with new wisdom and cognizance.

Perhaps now is the time to break out of those barriers that forbid everyone to explore life and dive into the new experiences that could develop us as well. If ever you fell through, just embrace everything that you’ve learned.

I know it’s difficult because this is also what I taste now, a reason why I’m often light-headed.

I feel grief and desolation, but I always bear in mind that there are persons who were going through much worse because of depression, and

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no one anticipates to get on that point.

If some of us are still in a state of disappointment, do something to suppress those negativities. If ever, take every piece of them, optimistically.

Likewise, it’s certain that every people would expect a lot from you. Instances are that you shall be consistently good at academics and always be considered a decent person. But when you once failed to pass an examination and had forgotten to do an ethical conduct, strong judgments and prejudices as the fruits of others’ arrogance would certainly make you feel uneasy.

Everyone would think that it’s only others disappointment on us, but actually, we’re still being extremely affected because we’ve made them disappointed.

These complex thoughts constantly running inside our head predominantly root in worries and loneliness. These emotions gradually weaken us, but don’t ever let yourselves be imprisoned on that point that may stop you from thinking sensibly.

Others also say that we have to let ourselves off from mental illusions; in fact, that is only a perception. We have to live our life the way it ought to be because those expectations can only give us false views of reality.

Always bear in mind that aftermaths are not hurdles; rather, it helps us move not away from our desires but toward it.

Moreover, don’t mind people who keep on pulling you down to their nasty level—those who think they’re so good and we don’t have anything to oppose from them; those who were so confident with their intelligence and never been down-to-earth are people who are not worthy to admire. Our existence is not for them, not to compete with their ingenuity, not just reaching our dreams as well; rather, it’s about living life with contentment.

If you feel disappointed on things you care about and you think you’ve been disappointing others because of your shortcomings, just be glad and optimistic. Don’t be bothered. Just thank them for making you realize that your failures don’t define you.

This is also why I took this as a stimulant: “I have not failed, I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work,” which was quoted by Thomas Alba Edison.

Failing is good, but altering your aspirations due to unmet expectations is not a solution; you’re running away, instead. Face your letdowns and deal with them, and ride through everything smoothly.

LIFE IN PINK FEMINISM: This is an inquiry on becoming pink, minus the rose tinted glasses.

Pink is a continuum of light between red and white. It is the same faint hue used to trademark women.

I

have always been told it is a gift to be born Pink.

In adherence to protocol, all must undergo a hue acquisition process before getting deployed to the world, and there can only be two presumed outcomes – Pink or Blue. It is in this method where one is handed his or her own unique Role.

Particularly, a Role is like a vessel bestowed at birth and an individual is obliged to carry it his or her whole life while it increases in weight alongside time. We are taught to stick with our assigned tasks in order for society to not disintegrate and to maintain its stability.

But fret not, said my elders, for us Pinks were given a relatively lighter weight to carry, and this saves us more time to pamper ourselves, to tie pink ribbons around our long locks, and to straighten the creases of our pink dresses while we sip on makebelieve drinks with the pink tea party toy sets that mothers bought for their Pink daughters’ first birthdays.

I have always loved the kitchen sets Nana and Mama purchased for me when I was a kid. Not to mention my little army of dolls – the ones with the fancy eyelids that habitually shut when you put them to sleep in their ‘cribs’. I decided then that I want to be a mother when I grow up. I want to have as many kids, because it is just the same as having several dolls to take care of. This is my first lesson on domesticity.

At the age of five, I learned how to read.

If it weren’t for the dusty pile of children’s fiction in our murky storage room, I wouldn’t be able to be acquainted with the best Pink writers I know and admire now.

These are the Pinks like Sylvia Plath, J.K. Rowling, Veronica Roth and Rupi Kaur – Pinks in their own line of expertise in literature, each with their own remarkable contributions in the field.

By the time the limit of my understanding is broad enough to grasp theories, I had been introduced to the more rational Pinks along the lines of Rosa Parks, Zillah Eisenstein and Simone De Beauvoir – women who believed that it is our birthright to choose the weights we want to carry, and not let the hue acquisition machine sort the options for us.

If I had known all along that my options

include being a writer or a human rights defendant, these I would have opted for, from the very beginning. Perhaps I had too much fun potty training the dolls and fakesipping fake tea.

But defiant Pinks pose a threat to society.

It would cause society disarray to not have Pinks accomplish their ‘biological’ obligation, which is to nurture offspring who will either become Blue laborers and capitalists or a new generation of Pinks who will be tasked to fulfill the lifelong responsibility, prolonging the domination of the Blue people amongst its opposite.

Many believe that the tables have turned in the progression of time, and that there is no denying it that women have emerged from the worst, wherein they are devoid of a right to vote or to own property, or hold bureaucratic positions, to this point in time where women empowerment is at large and groups have been formed to preserve our ‘privileges’.

Liberation is a different issue – in order for it to be authentic, it has to be absolute.

For when there are still Pinks who are told not to raise their voice for it lessens femininity; who are portrayed in commercials and films as the weaker hue; who are getting defiled without their consent and having themselves to blame for it; who are sold to market as sex slaves and human meat; who are being compelled to have their feet bound or to burn with their Blue husbands at funeral pyres; or who are forced to flee overseas, for Blue tyrants perceive them as a threat to sovereignty when all she did is was to stand up for what she thinks is favorable for her people, that is when you know that women are still tormented – plagued by the same society which she lovingly fostered.

Pink is a continuum of light between red and white. It is the same faint hue used to trademark women. Hypothetically, a woman’s stance is in the feeble point of the color scheme and she needs to find the perfect balance as she walks the tightrope – if she is too overpowering, she burns herself to death, and if too weak, she drowns in a lake of crocodiles.

And they say it is a gift to be born Pink.

guts and roses andrea nicole b. sapnu literary EDITOR AB english

“

Liberation is a different issue– in order for it to be authentic, it has to be absolute.”

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Once upon a Time TIME: We have a lot of negative affiliations attached to our ‘being’ a Filipino. For others, it is a stigma - something to break to disillusion the masses that it isn’t the reality, for most Filipino time is celebrated: a trademark that when you’re in the Philippines, being late is inevitable.

O

ne of the takeaways from roughly three years of BPO experience is the fact that Americans view time as money. The value of time is equated with their ability to generate income – which says a lot of how their economy is thriving.

Similarly, time as a reflection of one’s culture is mirrored with how the Japanese equates punctuality with respect (and we know that the Japanese people are respectful people – even neglecting their perception of time). Respect, as well as time, manifests in a variety of forms and it differs from culture to culture on how we are brought up.

bedtime stories joan robin t. martinez correspondent ab english

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There is a disease contagiously manifesting in the minority converting masses that, rather than an affliction, it’s an actual norm.”

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During the hype of slum books during my childhood, when love is a thing too complex to grasp, my favorite motto had always been “Honesty is the best policy.” My second being “Time is gold.”

As a child, my notion of time is dependent on how the adults around me deals with the flowing passage. Honesty is a value directly application, readily accessible, rather than time and the rush hour where my childish brain could not muster an ounce of care whether or not I come to class on time. Better late than never had always been the ready-made optimistic response when situation demands it. I don’t remember much of how my primary schooling went except being swept in the schedules of other responsible adults. By the time I was in charge of my own schedule, I was a freshman in high school. My school, 30 minutes to an hour travel and I was given the responsibility for myself for the first time.

Being responsible is an art I still struggle with up until now, more than 10 years from the first time. Time management is a feat I wished I have mastered and often wondered how adults have mastered it. As I grow older, more exposed in the mainstream that was adulting, I realized: my perception of time and my mismanagement is a struggle literally everyone is dealing with. There are no first-timers or adultier adults when dealing with this issue. There is a disease contagiously manifesting in the minority converting masses that, rather than an affliction, it’s an actual norm.

Rather than something to be ashamed of, it is surprisingly accepted and in some cases, even celebrated.

I’ve heard of the term “fashionably late” and found that it is used as a reference to turning up later in social gatherings and events to create a dramatic flair – in catching attention or hoarding the limelight. It is an act to claim importance, to exhibit power – that you have the right to arrive late because of who you are. We’ve seen this in every drama we watch on television, where the hero shows up on the last minute to save the day, employed for effects and impact. These circumstances are better adapted in certain cases, events if you may. But what happens when people imposes this type of self-importance in every aspect of their busy schedules? Like, the heroes

who have the license to such fashion and mere side characters have to wait indefinitely. What happens to ‘lesser’ mortals who are subjected to the long wait just because time has its priorities?

We don’t have to look far to observe the powers of these heroes and their value of time over their constituents. While everything starts at home, the school is our most common ground – a melting pot of cultures concocted into a solution which graduates would inevitably carry to their next stages of life. While we must consider that great power comes with great responsibilities, ergo, the higher the position, the greater the work; the more shifting the priorities come. More important people have the higher priorities, therefore, there will always be others whose time would not be of more importance than universal matters.

Unfortunately, these others constitute the masses – the major population whose attitudes towards time have been an ill effect of dependency towards the people in power; inevitably birthing a sense of importance towards our own time.

This is not to say that the more important people are the cause of such neglect over the subject of time, nor does it conclude that Filipino time practiced by students are caused by officials – exhibit A being: a university program to start at 8 am starts at 10 am instead. Filipino time is a habit born out of generations maintained by the constant practice of older generations eventually seeping into the habits of younger generations.

Because we’ve been so used to the idea that the actual set time is an hour (or two) after the agreed time, we give ourselves the right to be late without due regard to others who have come earlier than expected. Because we are expecting that people doesn’t always follow the standard set time, we are so used to justifying that we follow the Filipino time. And that by itself is already an explanation requiring no further elaboration.

I’ve had my fair share of experiences working with other cultures. One on those have been flying to Indonesia for a youth forum. One memorable question we’ve posed to ask one native was in regards to how they value time, as if a way to gauge whether Filipino time actually have a cousin overseas. It is disconcerting, and at the same time almost amazing in a sense, that our perception of time and of how we approach other culture adapts based on the circumstances. We may have a habit of a lifetime to tame and adjustments usually take time anyway but the flexibility in the manner of aligning ourselves to dominant standards is almost astounding. But then it goes to show how much ounce of respect we give our country relative to other cultures.

That we can easily adapt to the cultures of others in respect to how they treat their time, whereas our own culture drown in the pool of incessant indulgences over something like a stigma but we take as a complement instead.

guest columnist

Freespirit

atty. Jo M. Clemente

Incomplete Notes of a Freshman Lawyer

“A

Few Good Men” was and still is my favorite lawyer movie, such that, on June 9 last year, when I walked into my first court appearance as a member of the bar, Tom Cruise’s line was the voice in my head – “ So, this is what a courtroom looks like!”

And that was it.

Barely 13 days from signing the Roll of Attorneys, I took over a 10 year old “Quieting of Title” case from Atty Jopet Pahilga, who had been appointed to a government post. Atty Jopet is known more as the lawyer of Luisita farmers who stood before the Supreme Court and won the case for them.

I had jitters when the Judge entered the room to start the hearing. I even texted my classmate Atty Marlon Tabilisma about the exact words I have to say when my case is called.

But all the jitters were gone soon as I took my place in this tiny court room in far off Antique.

I stood for the respondents. This case have had two judges, the first one died. I am the third counsel, the first one also died.

This baptism taught me the basics in court appearances. It gave me a working sense about litigation.

It helped that the Judge was also an engineer, such that, when I sought a subpoena duces tecum from the surveying unit of the Bureau of Lands, he asked more questions than I did. When he asked the witness what is the “more or less” in surveying science as appearing in land titles, I can only surmise he was trying to determine the margin of error in the survey. And yes, 12 months down the road, the decision is yet to come.

Panginoong may lupa A more complicated land case in Iloilo came my way afterwards. My client-friends from the first case referred me to their relative who belongs to a political family.

From a pure cancellation case lodged before the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), their

cases ballooned to other issues brought about by events. As of today, we have filed 2 cases before the Ombudsman going 3 as of this writing, a criminal complaint still pending before the prosecutor’s office, other agrarian related petitions, and a nullification of title before the Regional Trial Court (RTC).

I agreed to handle this cancellation case because I was already into one for my family filed before the DAR in Tarlac. I thought then that the researches I am doing back home would most likely be the same for this out of town case. But, lo and behold it was far more complicated. For one, the National Housing Authority (NHA) was building houses right smack in the fully irrigated agricultural land for victims of Typhoon Yolanda.

NHA’s contractor paid the agrarian reform beneficiaries for the land—the same people who filed a cease and desist order with the DAR for premature conversion—and recently, NHA was able to transfer the property to its name.

I’ve stood for farmer’s rights all my life and today, I am lawyering for the “panginoong may lupa.” But then again, we have laws and as we learned in school, agrarian reform should not be used to cause injustice to landowners, because they too have rights.

Our contention for cancellation: no retention, the rightful beneficiaries were deprived as not one among the farm workers in the Hacienda was a beneficiary and the beneficiaries were the relatives, household help, driver, supporters of the owners’ political opponent. Truly, the complication grows by the day.

My learnings on this case was like a map, which, from its aerial perspective will reveal the main roads and the many tiny arteries that links to it. And when I say the documents related to this is already one “maleta” I am not kidding.

Back home our own cancellation case before the DAR in Tarlac was on a slow grind. It is a 30 year old case for retention which the family won twice already but was reversed by Manila.

The reconsideration sought decidedly made it (again) a cancellation case which ordered the Tarlac Office to assign a cancellation case

number but never did. Exactly one year from this Order, and me now as the family lawyer, we filed a cancellation case. After that, the Tarlac office sent us a memo or whatever it may be called informing us that as per that order, they have assigned a cancellation number which incidentally was made on the same day that we filed our petition. Enough said.

Masakit sa bangs Few days from my June 9 initiation, another friend sought me out for a trip in one of those far flung towns of Negros Occidental. We were to meet the head of the Department of Social Welfare & Development (DSWD). The issue: her brother is allegedly being deprived of her children by the wife despite an agreement they had before the DSWD. When asked what will compel the wife to respect the terms of the agreement, my answer was to bring it to court so that any violation will have sanctions. And so we did. It was a case for joint custody with Habeas Corpus. And each time we have a hearing and the children were there, it rips my heart. “Masakit sa bangs,” I would say.

The wife’s counter offensive on this issue was a VAWC case against my client, nothing violent but pure economic. This was subsequently dismissed by the Court not only because we were able to prove that my client continuously supported the family but also because the petitioner-wife was not able to prove that she suffered emotional stress --and all that stuff she claims to have suffered-- to merit my client’s incarceration.

As to the custody issue, it was settled through mediation with a fresh agreement approved by the Judge.

I would have this semblance of a case again at the tail end of my freshman year as a lawyer.

The VAWC accuser, just wants my client to go to jail for allegedly failing to give support to her 4 year old child. My client says it couldn’t possibly be his child as the sexual contact was never consummated. The case is pending before the City prosecutor in Cabanatuan City.

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One more case I have involving women is a rape case. Before I accepted this one, I sought for the medico-legal of the alleged victim. I asked my daughter who is an OB-GYNE to interpret the document for me. No sperm traces says the document, then, I took on the case. Case dismissed.

Again, I have always stood for women’s rights as an activist. And thrice in a row, I stood for the men accused of violating these women.

There is no quarrel inside me on this. Suffice to say, I do some evaluation before getting on these cases and just like any individual on this planet, these men also have rights.

Still on family issues, I also have grandparents wanting to see their grandchildren who were deprived them by the kid’s mother. It is an outof-wedlock situation in relation to child support.

The son is abroad and the grandparents invokes their visitation rights. Looking for a legal anchor on this is challenging but I remember an advise from a seasoned lawyer –go back to the Constitutiton and start from there. After many months we are now on pre-trial on this case.

Anak siya ng nanay niya; sabi ng nanay, hindi One more interesting and complicated case on family is about a Probate of Will being heard in in Iloilo. Again, the clients were referred to me by close friends from that region.

What complicates the probate was an intervention by one of the heirs who opposes the appointment of the named administrators.

He wants to be the sole heir with claims that he is a biological son of the testatrix. But, in the Will, the testatrix was explicit in saying she has no biological nor adopted child.

Of course, his agenda was to destroy the integrity of the will and this exactly was what his lawyer tried doing when I presented my third witness. She witnessed the signing of the will. I would have thrown the chair at this man when he went badgering my witness but I kept my cool. Funny, how I could hold on like this before the courts. It was the judge who finally told him to ask his last question.

In one of our hearings, the Judge, made this admonition. He said this in open court without pinpointing at any one. Paraphrasing what he said in Ilonggo, thus: let us just be thankful that we are given something from out of their generosity, from out of their hard work and industry, hindi naman natin pinaghirapan ito.

Somehow, such statements give us a glimpse of what lurks in the hearts of the men from the bench.

In turn, my clients who were the appointed administrators in the Will filed a petition for cancellation of a certificate of live birth. One of them was the surrogate mother of the intervenor

“

One thing though is for sure, law school truly prepares us in this direction. But, what will sustain us, is continuous learning, studying and researching that is more encompassing than what we did in school or when preparing for the bar. Because now, we deal with real lives. Real drama.”

and niece of the testatrix. The testatrix was a nurse working in the US and it is certainly out of human experience that a nurse in the US would come to this far off town, which is not even her hometown, to give birth assisted by a hilot.

The list of cases is as varied as they come --marriage annulments, recognition of divorces obtained abroad, physical injuries, slander, qualified theft, election protest, even controversial issues best lodged before the ombudsman etc.

One thing though is for sure, law school truly prepares us in this direction. But, what will sustain us, is continuous learning, studying and researching that is more encompassing than what we did in school or when preparing for the bar. Because now, we deal with real lives. Real drama.

I went to law school at 55 years old. My daughter was already a doctor when I did. I became a lawyer at 60. A senior citizen so to speak. But it helped that I am a journalist, trained to process what unfolds before me, quick enough to beat the editor’s deadline. I also agree that the gift of writing somehow is genetic but what

makes ones thoughts jibe with the keyboard so that words run in harmony in each sentence is practice. Writing is one of the foundations of lawyering. There is a need to hone the craft.

If she can inglish, I can inglis her back It was one of those trips to Arellano University in Manila where I assisted a friend to get some documents that brought me to this field. As I entered this law school an announcement says it was the last day for entrance exams. A friend once told me that Miss International and actress Melanie Marquez was a freshman student there.

I inquired about the exams and also about Melanie Marquez. And so it hit me, why not? “If she can inglish me, I can inglish her back!”

On same day I took the entrance exam, passed it, waited for the interview and the following day, I got an email from the University telling me I was admitted and that I should get my transcript of records before I can enrol.

I went home to Tarlac to get my transcript.

The lady at the registrar’s office told me :bakit dun po kayo mag-eenrol, may law na po dito sa TSU. And again, why not?

So, I took the entrance exam but complained about the exam fees of P1,000 when a more established law school like Arellano charges only P600.00. I returned the next day for an interview with then Dean, Judge Sotero but it didn’t happen. When I was at the Dean’s office, there too was Judge Alipio Yumul who told the Dean “ iinterviewhin mo pa ba yan, dapat lang si Jo sa law school.”

I didn’t enrol after that. I also didn’t get my Transcript and set aside any illusion of going to law school.

Two weeks into the semester, I was at TSU again for another errand. I bumped into then President Precy Viuya who told me she attended the freshman orientation, saw my name in the list but I wasn’t there. I told her I didn’t enrol and besides it is already late to come in.

This I truly owe to her. She said: “just enrol, bring me your assessment form, I will put a note then go to class. Mabilis lang ang 4 years. You will be done before you know it.”

And it did. I am lucky to belong to the third batch of TSU Law graduates (2010-2014). Six of us already made it – aside from me, there is Kriselle Joy Manalo, Marlon Tabilisma, Steve Russel Regua, Jeny Ann Madamba and Iris Ann Valencia. Our four years together was one hell of a ride, with many stories best left untold.

Indeed, law school for me was unplanned but it happened. When destiny took a hand, I believe I have an assignment yet to fulfil, so here I am.

ATTY. JOCELYN MARTINEZ-CLEMENTE was a two-term editor of the The Work. She was a former Vice President of the College Editors Guild of the Philippines (CEGP) and immediate past chair of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP). She was into corporate communications as senior public affairs officer of Smart Communication, Inc. for 10 years before working as communications consultant of the Philippine Offices of International NGOs and a UN agency like the International Labour Organization (ILO). She writes for the Philippine Daily Inquirer and publishes a local weekly, Newsline Tarlac. She has also authored books, three of which are children’s books. She also teaches at Tarlac State University’s College of Law.

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FEATURE • APPETITE

URDU:

53

Crafted Years of Tarlac’s Thriving Restaurant-Bakeshop

By Albritch Adam A. Labiano Photos by Pauline Grace B. Manzano

T

arlac, having been a cradle of a rich history and culture, serves an untouched passion to serve people with appetizing delicacies. Bread and pastries instilled in the Tarlaqueño families’ strong bond cultivated its way to establishment of numerous bakeshop brands in the province. One of which is the URDU Restaurant and Bakeshop in the heartland of the city’s vicinity strategically around the City Plazuela and San Sebastian Cathedral, where most Tarlaqueños pass by on a daily basis.

URDU has been quite of a secrecy in its luscious chocolate cake filled with mocha filling, wherein one can really indulge in its kicking coffee taste blending carefully with its moist chocolate cake. Little did they know that URDU literally started as a restaurant than a bakeshop in its early years of foundation.

Considering URDU as an image of Tarlaqueño pride due to its continuous battle with time and adversities of the fast-paced change in the city, it remained as the classic restaurant by generations for 53 years.

FERMIN JAMES URQUICO Co-founder, URDU Restaurant and Bakeshop

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“ Itong business na ‘to talaga na sinimulan ni

Dad ‘yong bumuhay sa amin, kaya pinagpapatuloy namin hanggang ngayon.”

STARTING SUCCESS WITH THE RIGHT RECIPES URDU, in its humble beginning, started merely as a restaurant serving its first chicken barbeque and clubhouse sandwich on October 30, 1965. This was due to the eagerness and intellect of the two childhood buddies, Mr. Fermin James Urquico and Atty. Renato Dungca, to establish a name in the business with their capacities. Far from the oncethought name that URDU came from an international origin due to its more likely odd-sounding title, it is more of a creative combination of the first two letters of the two surnames of its founders, “Ur” from Urquico and “Du” from Dungca.

After two years, Atty. Dungca continued to pursue his dreams to become well-established in the field of laws, selling out his shares to his co-partner, Urquico. From then on, the Urquico family had been handson on handling out the business in their sole propriety. The present menu of the restaurant is mostly composed of the oldaged recipes that the family has crafted for years. Most of the baked-products recipes came from the family of Mr. Urquico’s wife, Mrs. Myrna Urquico, like the Classic Empanada and Special Ensaymada, blending with the rich taste of the locals.

MOLDING INTO FUTHER PROSPERITY In the start of the sweet venture of the bakeshop’s success, the Urquico started their baking career through some made-toorder baked products for the close friends of the family. Luckily, through word of mouth, the taste

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MYRNA AGATHA JOY URQUICO-SARINAS Manager, URDU Restaurant and Bakeshop

of the delicacies has spreaded successfully. Their first products were limited only to customers, the first ones were chocolate cake, sans rival, and mocha torte.

In 1992, Urquico’s daughter, Mrs. Mryna Agatha Joy UrquicoSarinas, spearheaded to manage the family business with the addition of baked cakes and delicacies that boosted what URDU is known for today— delightful home-baked chocolate cakes. Meanwhile, Miss Anna Maria Urquico, Sarinas’ sister, facilitates the human resource management of the restaurant.

“Since may restaurant naman, magbukas na rin ako ng bakeshop.

So, ako ang nag-umpisa nung sa bakeshop. Nag-aral din ako ng mga baking lessons,” Sarinas added.

PERSEVERING GREATNESS THROUGH THE YEARS The bonding of the family in cooking had led the family to continue their father’s legacy in the food industry, while battling the growing competition of food businesses in the city. In 53 years, the family had pushed through a second branch to cater more customers. Today, they are planning to renovate the main branch for a new and comfortable look.

“Siyempre pursigido ako kasi family business ‘yon. Siyempre gusto ko naman na may means of livelihood din, saka siyempre ‘yong family lumalaki ganyan. Saka ‘yong interest, ‘yong passion mo sa ginagawa mo,” she said.

Like the long years of the couple who has been sharing the sweet success of their restaurant and bakeshop, the Tarlac’s pride in the best-tasting delicacy molded the years of artistry, quality and passion. Quenching the hunger of Tarlaqueño’s with good food and cakes, the legacy lives on.

FEATURE • APPETITE

Tarlaqueno’s Heritage, The Home of Filipino Native Cakes

By Jan Gusfel Dungca Photos by Audrey Del Rosario

T

here are people who are new to places they have never been to. Sometimes, they go to those unfamiliar traces to unwind, to relax, to see beautiful sceneries, to try new adventures, and most importantly, to satisfy their tummies’ desires.

Tarlac has been considered as a stopover for travelers but what their eyes’ windows cannot see are places which will definitely make them come back. The province owns pots of appetizing food which will make their tongues say, “Wow, Tarlac.”

One of these province’s infamous food spots is Betty’s Special Native Cakes.

Betty’s is a well-known food hub for its kakanin which lingers not only in the tips of the tongues of every Tarlaqueño, but also in their hearts. There is no doubt that the people have been infatuated with its sticky-sweet delicacy since 1972. Betty’s treats may be presented from boxes, rolls, and partitioned packs of delicacies to family-sized bilaos of pancit and palabok. People have their bites at Betty’s after another bite—the delicate slices which satisfy your cravings and hunting perception.

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LUCKY NAME The name, Betty’s, was derived from the name of the late Beatrice Junio, the founder who has four children with Mr. Rogelio Junio Sr. They have started in Tarlac Public Market from a small business offering merienda like ginataan and sotanghon. Later on, they tried to develop and introduce new products like native cakes. This embarks the beginning of something new.

Just like other success stories, Betty’s owns an original narrative of its own—it navigates into a story of something small which grew bigger steps after steps. Betty’s has conquered the challenges with its unending passion to satisfy the community people’s mouths.

TRANSITION TO RESTAURANT Betty’s tried to venture into another nature of business—a coffee bar. The business is undoubtedly growing which has several outlets located at the northern part of Luzon like Moncada, Paniqui, Concepcion, Capas, Apalit in Pampanga, and Bulacan. Considering that they have already established a name, the store is no longer difficult to find.

Potential clients and guests are from the nearby communities; however, their products earn astounding ratings which is why even the provinces and cities nestling around Tarlac are considered as devotees of Betty’s.

Native cakes like duman and cassava cakes are some of their familiar products. In 1972, the business boomed in the industry. Majority of the feedbacks is positive so they have also lifted their standards and the quality of their products.

“Perseverance is the key to success. Difficulty will be your strength to urge and strive for success. We are improving anything,” Ramon E. Dulay, manager of Tarlac branch, said.

WHAT’S IN? The menu contains a variety of options to choose from.

Native cakes are available in whole, half, quarter and slice size. Betty’s Main Course can be ordered in single order and in ala carte. Betty’s traditional roast chicken is one of the prime product that may appear as single, half, or whole depending on the customer’s preference.

All-Day Breakfast Category would chase along your way before heading up to school or work. It includes tapsilog and arroz ala cubana which range from 99 to 185 pesos.

Also available in the list is their fine-dressed sizzlers such as sizzling bagnet and Zechuan Squid.

Inspired with Filipino traditions is their meriendas where consumers can take in either single order, small bilao, or large bilao for birthdays and other celebrations. Some of their trademarks are their pancit guisado, palabok and lomi.

They also offer pastas like pasta Filipina, carbonara ala pobre, chicken au grata, shrimp pesto, shrimp in crab paste, pasta marinara, mushroom Bolognese, and pad Thai for around 145 to 175 pesos. Aside from that, Betty’s also has smoked, roasted, grilled or in cheesy-state sandwiches and burgers that will not leave you an empty pocket but of a full stomach.

Another way to make your taste buds go wild is to give a try on their most appreciated desserts and appetizers which include their halo-halo special, leche flan, nachos, and fruits and veggies salad respectively.

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Tsokolate de batirol, coffee latte, classic hot choco, and brewed Americano are classified as Betty’s hot blends. These are some siblings of our meriendas which are readily made for affordability.

Business hours for native cakes are open to the public from 6 am to 9 pm while restaurant dishes are available from 8 am to 9 pm every day within the week. Recipes are developed by Betty’s for customer’s satisfaction.

Life’s usually a huge bilao of foods. Before you go home after a stressful work, why not bear for a taste of kakanin delicacies and menu-buster meals you will surely love at Betty’s Special Native Cakes. This will absolutely power up your cravings for a light calorie-oriented cuisines and nutrition-rich recipes. Share a meal with your loved ones, with your cameras. Take some selfies and groufies after your happy-eating experience.

HOT AND COLD BLENDS Get alive and feel refreshed with their top-sellers like green apple cucumber, carrot orange grape apple, aloe tea, and houseblend iced tea. Energize your day with regular and grande frappes and smoothies ranging from 120140 pesos. Vanilla almond coffee, peppermint mocha, milo dinosaur, and a lot more for their drinks.

Just like other success stories, Betty’s owns an original narrative of its own—it navigates into a story of something small which grew bigger steps after steps. *** Betty’s has been continuously establishing a name in the industry while making sure that they are also able to build a connection straight to the hearts of every customer they got the chance to serve. While most travelers look for a food hub where they can taste something new, Betty’s is already smiling back to them for they have learned that they were the ones the people are surely looking for.

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FEATURE • PERSONA

24 the work | metanoia

Text and photos by Isaih Kyle C. Umipig

I

n writing a lesson plan, your objectives should be SMART—as in, specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and time-bound.

That’s what a typical teacher would always tell future teachers to remember.

In the budding town of Anao, we met a 94-year-old woman who has devoted half of her life to nurturing the minds and building the morale of the youngsters. Her story became an addition to the history of the success stories of every student she has handled in the olden times. To this day, she lives with every moment which made her standing with noble reputation.

She is smart but to her former students, she is more than that.

I. OBJECTIVES With a bus and a Waze app, we tried to locate where Carmelita Pantaleon, or more commonly known as Lola Carmen, resides.

We have reached the town proper of Anao and started asking the community people if they are familiar with Lola Carmen. It is but a delicate surprise for us that the very first person we asked knows her. He directed us to where the home of Lola Carmen squats.

At the end of our search, we were able to enter her home but our objectives to ask her questions turned the tables when she started to welcome us with a smile and then did the storytelling.

II. SUBJECT MATTER In the simplest sense, someone would define Biology as the study of life. This time, we will try to deal with the life of Lola Carmen – her origin, her growth, and her very existence.“Dalaga pa rin ako ngayon. 94 years old but still single. [I’m] Carmelita Pantaleon,” she started the thread.

Her memory of her teaching experiences was the first thing she spilled to us. It was like an infant pronouncing its first word, but this time, it is from an almostcentury-aged woman putting her most favorite memory into words.

The tale becomes more interesting when she supplemented noteworthy moments of her living.

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III. PROCEDURE Lola Carmen’s life reveals an interesting narrative of loss, determination, passion, hope, and dedication.

Throughout her life, she has experienced the harshest of times. She stumbled more than two times, but these missteps are only what craft her story’s superlative plot twist.

At an early age, she encountered one of the most awful happenstances in a life of a child—that is, losing a parent. Her father died when she was just three years old. Her mother, meanwhile, earned enough income to provide for basic needs by making blankets and mosquito nets as well as running a small piggery.

Despite the bad things that happened in her life, she remained persistent in reaching her dreams. She continued her education with the assistance of her loved ones. Lola Carmen once visualized becoming a nurse but because of its high-priced tuition fee, she took a two-year Elementary Teaching Course at the Philippine Normal School.

While it’s true that we have to be determined and driven to reach our personal aspirations, sometimes, unexpected turns lead us to beautiful destinations.

“I spent my younger years for 50 long, long years—21 [years] dito sa elementary (Anao Elementary School), 20 years sa San Francisco, at 9 years dito sa simbahan,” she told us with pride.

Lola Carmen is the founder of Anao Catholic School, formerly known as the Guardian Angel Catholic Learning School. She was

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Carmelita Pantaleon 94 years old

the principal of the Catholic school for nine years but when the school has completed its elementary levels in 2004, the nuns took over the administration.

“Lahat ng mga subjects [tinuturo ko noon] pero ang favorite subject ko, Mathematics.

Arithmetic noong pre-war tapos naging Mathematics na,” Lola Carmen added.

She also served as a barangay official in her community as the secretary of the council.

According to Lola, she lent almost 20 years in the service of being a public servant that even though there is a change with who leads the barangay, she still gets a reappointment from them.

“Oo. Barangay secretary.

Sexy. Sexy-tary,” she joked when we confirmed if she became

a barangay official, “Matagal ah. Mahigit dalawampung taon siguro. Dahil hindi ako pinapalitan e. Maski mayroong ibang barangay captain, ako pa rin [ang ina-appoint].” The conclusion of her service entails the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) saying she was already too old to work as the secretary.

Her dedication to teaching and her desire to serve the community are rolled into one abundant existence – that would impeccably describe the early life of Lola Carmen. However, life is not a series of pleasure; sometimes, we have to endure cycles of pain, failure, and the lingering affliction of being incomplete.

As a compensation for her dedicated service as a pillar of education in her community, Lola Carmen received a

retirement pension. Her story progresses with a little sadness visible in her eyes.

She said, “yong mga konting nalikom ko na ibinigay sa akin noon, nabiktima ako ng budol-budol gang sa Paniqui.

Kaya I’m the poorest retiree.

Wala nang source of income ngayon.”

This very tragic event doubled the misery when, in the same year, their twostory house was wrecked by a typhoon. The rubbles of their home still nestle in front of the town market, Lola said; it flashes how her mind still can recall the instants from her past.

Similar to the stairways which are the only thing left in their home, Lola Carmen is the only one from their kin who breathes still. “I’m the youngest and the last to survive,” she furthered in her story.

At present, she lives with some of her relatives.

She was told not to do too much work because her hips are in pain when she begins to feel her bed.

“Hindi ko alam kung bakit isang buwan nang masakit ‘yong balakang ko.

Dalawang doctors na ang pinuntahan ko, wala rin.

Baka kinukulam pa ako,” she laughs, “Baka hindi na ako magamot. Sabi nila, inggit daw. Isang araw, bigla na lang sumakit itong balakang ko. Gabi-gabi, sumakit.”

Despite her illness, Lola Carmen remains very happy. Her eyes tell a comprehensive storyline which leads to beautiful moments and happy endings. Although her skin is already wrinkled, her beauty loiters because her smile is almost an irreplaceable part of her face.

IV. GENERALIZATION For Lola Carmen, she is a candle who consumes herself to light the paths of her students. It is why no wonder that she has produced wellmannered students geared with competence, commitment, and the heart for their choice of profession.

When asked if she has regrets about the entirety of her life up to this day, Lola Carmen said that she will never feel sorry for the actions and decisions she made in the past.

“Basta I always devote my time sa simbahan. Pero ngayon, maski meron akong karamdaman, hindi ko nakakaligtaang magsimba,” she adds up.She stood, she moved the youth, she fell down, she stood up again, and she is who she was. Her story truly made her a history of its own.

V. APPLICATION Aside from giving us instructions about different subject matters, our teachers are also the ones who reiterated to us our favorite mantra which we still live by until today.

Teachers are great influencers in the form of a human being holding a chalk, nourishing us words of wisdom.

When asked about what she always tells her students, she paused for a while. She said she always wanted her students to be kind at all times, wherever their feet will bring them. No matter how successful you are, your character will always be a top consideration. Personality does not have a monetary value but it is worth millions.

Even a teacher retires, the legacy remains in the mouths of every student. Every successful doctor was nursed by a caring teacher.

Every known scientist’s potential was discovered by a dedicated instructor. Every great artist’s dream was outlined by a creative mentor.

Every athlete was heartened by a passionate trainer. Every professional engineer was developed by an engineer of the mind. Every dream remains a dream until a teacher comes along and helps you to turn these dreams into existence and experience.

VI. EVALUATION We went to some schools in the town proper of Anao to search for now professionals who were once students of Lola Carmen. In Doces Ongsiako Central Elementary School

The most important lessons are neither restrained in the walls of a classroom nor written on our textbooks; instead, they are deposited in our minds, inscribed in our hearts, and chiseled in our very souls.

(DOCES), someone caught our eyes, thinking that maybe she is one of the persons we are looking for. As luck would have it, she is one of the successful products of Lola Carmen— she is Ma’am Carmelita Magbitang.

We asked Ma’am Magbitang about Lola Carmen, and she gave us enough facts that would attest to the great influence of their “Madam Carmen” in their lives. “Talagang matalino si Madam. Grade 1 ko siya naging teacher. Pero maganda si Ma’am Pantaleon noon. Very fresh ang kanyang memory pa. Minsan nga, naging guest speaker siya, talagang magaling,” she brings to mind.

Ma’am Magbitang is very happy and proud that even once in her life, she was handled by an efficient and effective teacher like Lola Carmen.

She also mused over the motherly approach of Lola Carmen when Lola calls her ‘katukayo’ because of them having the same names.

“Kilalang-kilala talaga si Ma’am Pantaleon. Naging outstanding retired teacher pa siya,” she added with a smile full of pride in her face.

VI. ASSIGNMENT At present, Lola Carmen lives with some of her remaining loved ones. Before we go, she asked us to write our names on a sheet of paper, and so we wrote our names. She told us why she made us write those.

“Lahat ng nagpupunta dito sa akin, pinapasulat ko ‘yong pangalan. Kasi pinagpe-pray ko sila. Pinagpe-pray ko sila palagi,” she said.

In that very moment, my heart melted. I wanted to go home. I wanted to tell my mom that I have a new favorite teacher—this time, I was not handled by that teacher but it feels like I am.

Undoubtedly, the most important lessons are neither restrained in the walls of a classroom nor written on our textbooks; instead, they are deposited in our minds, inscribed in our hearts, and chiseled in our very souls.

Tomorrow, as we proceed with our paths, let us not forget our assignment for Lola Carmen: (1) to be humble even we earn more than others; (2) to be a good person wherever our shoes will take us; (3) to always get up when we stumble and fall; (4) to influence others to the best extent that we can; (5) and most importantly, to move others through her inspiring life lessons.

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LATHALAIN • LAKBAY

CALAO FALLS

Kariktang Umaapaw sa Munting Pag-Agos Ni Janelle Pamela R. David Mga larawang kuha ni Pauline Grace B. Manzano

CALAO FALLS STARTER PACK P300 - Tricycle mula Mayantoc

Town Market papuntang

Sitio Calao (balikan) P350 - Registration fee at

Tour Guide P20 - Environmental fee

(per head)

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S

a patuloy na pagdami ng tao at pagbabago sa siyudad ng Tarlac ay masasabi nating isa na tayo sa mga probinsyang patuloy ang pag-usbong at pag-unlad.

Sa nakakabinging tensyon ng pang-araw-araw nating pamumuhay sa lungsod ay nakakaligtaan na nating magpahinga at bumisita sa mga natatagong kayamanan ng ating siyudad.

Samahan ninyo kaming sundan ang ritmo at saliw ng musika sa liblib na kagubatan ng San Jose, Mayantoc kung saan matatagpuan ang isa sa mga ipinagmamalaking talon ng Mayantoc, Tarlac—ang Talon ng Calao.

Pakinggan ang bawat bagsak at bugso ng mga agos at hayaang tangayin nito

ang anumang bigat ng mga pasaning dulot ng pang-arawaraw na pagkaabala.

ISTORYA: ANG KASAYSAYAN, PINAGMULAN AT KINAROROONAN Nakilala noong 2013 ng Tarlac Ecotourism, matatagpuan ang Calao Falls sa Sitio Calao, San Jose, lungsod ng Mayantoc—ang tinaguriang “Summer Capital ng Tarlac” dahil sa malamig na klima ng siyudad. Galing ang pangalan ng Sitio Calao sa ibong “Kalaw,” na noon ay naninirahan sa kagubatan ng Calao ngunit lumisan sa kabundukan ng dahil sa pagputok ng Pinatubo noong 1991. Napapaligiran ang Mayantoc ng mga bundok at matatagpuan din dito ang iba

pang talon at ilog na maaari ring sadyain.

Lumisan man ang mga ibon ng Kalaw sa kagubatan ay iniwan nila ang kanilang musika sa mga kagubatan.

Hanggang ngayon, umaawit pa rin sila. Hindi na sa kanilang tinig nanggagaling ang musika kundi sa bawat pagbagsak at pag-agos ng Talon ng Calao.

ITINERARYO: DAANDAANG DAAN PATUNGO Pagdating sa bayan ng Mayantoc ay sasakay ng tricycle papuntang Sitio Calao. Mahigit limang kilometro mula sa bayan, madadaan papunta sa Sitio ang Brgy. Carabaoan at Brgy. Caocaoayan. Habang papalapit sa Sitio Calao ay mapapansin na mas kumokonti ang mga kabahayan at mas

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1.8 KM

napapaligiran na ang tanawin ng kabundukan. Mahigit isang kilometrong layo, mapapansin na ang sementadong daan ay mapapalitan ng mabatong lupa, nakapalibot sa naglalakihang puno na hindi mamalayan na nasa gitna na pala ng kagubatan at naghuhudyat na malapit na sa kalibliban ng Mayantoc.

Nakarating kami sa Sitio matapos ang mahigit 15 minuto. Pagkababa pa lamang namin ay maririnig mo na ang pag-agos ng tubig mula sa talon ng Calao. Ang katahimikan ng lugar, malamig na klima, at ang kapayapaan ng ilang residente ang magpapaibig sa ‘yo sa lugar na ito.

LAKBAYIN: ANG PAGLAKAD KASAMA SINA “TREK” AT “KING” Hindi karaniwan ang naging lakbayin. Hindi lamang mga anino namin ang sinalamin ng mga tinawid na ilog, kundi maging ang mga anino nina “Trek” at “King”, ang dalawang alagang aso ng aming nagsilbing gabay na si Mang Nestor Transfiguracion.

“Ngayon lang ‘yan,” sagot ni Mang Nestor nang tinanong namin kung karaniwan nang sumasama sina “Trek” at “King” sa pagpunta sa talon.

Kaya naman nang araw na iyon, hindi lang kami ang mga turista dahil sina Trek at King man na nakatira malapit sa mismong talon ay nagsilbing dayuhan din.

Sabay-sabay naming sinundan si Mang Nestor habang ginagabayan kaming marating ang aming destinasyon. Ang daan, kabisadong-kabisado ni Mang Nestor dahil tatlong taon na siyang nagsisilbing tour guide

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NA LAKARAN MULA SITIO CALAO

sampu ng kanyang walo pang mga kasamahan.

Sa katunayan, marami na siyang mga nakilalang mga turista buhat sa iba’t ibang probinsya o siyudad, maging ng mga mangilan-ngilang banyagang turista. Ayon kay Mang Nestor, karamihan sa mga dumarayo ay mga kabataang mga “adventure seekers.”

Umpisa pa lamang ng paglalakbay ang pagtawid sa isang ilog kung saan naabutan namin ang isang ale na naglalaba sa may paanan ng ilog, simbolo ng kalinisan ng tubig ng Calao at kasimplehan ng pamumuhay ng mga iilang residente rito. Patuloy pa rin naming sinusundan sa paglalakad si Mang Nestor at patuloy na kinikilala ang daanan, ang mga lumilinyang mga puno na waring pilit inaabot ang mga ulap, at ang isang ilog na walong beses naming tinawid hanggang sa marating namin ang talon.

MAYANTOC

May layong 1.8 kilometro ang Calao Falls mula sa jumpoff trail. Nag-umpisa kaming maglakad ng magtatanghali at ayon kay Mang Nestor, ang pinakamabilis na paglakad papuntang talon ay mahigit 12 minuto lamang.

Karagdagan pa, ayon sa kanilang tala noong mga nagdaang taon, 60 na katao ang pinakaraming mga turistang sabay-sabay na nagtungo sa talon.

Samantala, humigit-kumulang na 700 na katao naman ang naitalang dumalaw sa talon, taong 2013—unang taon ng Talon ng Calao bilang ecotourism site ng Tarlac.

DESTINASYON: ANG RIKIT AT LAMIG NG BAWAT AGOS Malamig ang hampas ng tubig sa aming talampakan.

Sa bawat pagtawid namin sa ilog ay mas lumalalim ang tubig at lumalakas ang hampas nito sa aming mga

paa. Sa aming pagtawid sa mga ilog ay may napansin kaming iilang isda at habang tumatagal ay mas lalong lumalakas ang tinig ng rumaragasang tubig mula sa Calao Falls. Patuloy pa rin kaming sinasamahan nina ‘Trek’ at ‘King’; pagkatapos daanan ang malalaking bato at tawirin ang walong ilog ay nakarating na kami sa aming pupuntahan—ang 30 talampakan at makapigilhiningang tanawin ng Calao Falls.

Nakarating kami matapos ang 20 minuto lamang na paglalakad, na napakabilis at napakadali para sa ganito kagandang tanawin at kumpara sa trail ng ibang talon. Agad kaming lumapit at lumusong sa napakalamig at napalakas na tubig ng Calao. Tila hindi namin mapigilang titigan at salubungin ang napakalakas na tubig na likha ng talon.

Hinarana ng Talon ng Calao ang aming pagal na mga

katawan. Tila isinabay ng agos ng tubig ang aming pagod.

Panandalian nitong nilunod ang kanya-kanya naming mga problema.

Pagkatapos ng ilang sandali ay kami ang nananghalian malapit sa talon kasama si Mang Nestor at sina Gared.

Saka na namin sinulit ang lamig at lakas ng tubig ng talon na wala sa lungsod, kumuha ng napakaraming litrato na aming babaunin pabalik, na para bang mga bata na sabik sa karanasan ng Calao Falls.

Bago bawiin ng kanluran ang araw, bumalik na kami sa Sitio Calao. Nagpahinga nang sandali habang kapansinpansin ang musika, pahina na nang pahina. Alam naming ang dating pahina nang pahina ay unti-unti ring maglalaho at mapapalitang muli ng ingay ng siyudad.

PATUTUNGUHAN: PAGRAGASA NG MGA PLANO PARA SA TALON NG CALAO Ayon kay Mang Nestor, ang mga plano ng Ecotourism office para sa mas lalong pagpapaganda sa Calao ay ang

proyektong pagkakaroon ng kuryente sa sitio upang maging tulong sa mga residente at nagsisilbing tagabantay ng talon at upang makatulong din sa mga pangangailangan ng mga turista. Isa rin sa mga proyekto ng office ay ang gumawa ng mas pinadaling trail na magmumula na sa itaas ng bundok diretso sa talon.

Kung si Mang Nestor naman ang tatanungin ay hiling niyang magkaroon ng iilang kubo malapit sa talon upang magsilbing pahingahan ng mga turista pagdating sa talon.

Nang malapit nang magdapithapon ay nagtungo na kami pabalik sa Sitio Calao, nagpahinga nang sandali bago bumalik sa Tarlac City.

Isang napakagandang alaala ang baon naming lahat pauwi, ang makaranas at matagpuan ang natatagong kayamanan ng Mayantoc.

Ang Calao Falls ay mananatili ang natural na lamig, lakas ng tubig at mananatiling maganda at makapigil-hininga.

Ikaw na lamang ang kulang at hinihintay ka na lamang niyang matagpuan at kilalanin ang sikreto ng kagandahan nito.

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FEATURE • INDUSTRY

On Framing Success in Business

M A N A B AT FRAMES & N E E D L E C R A F T S

By Jejomar Contawe Photos by Janelle Pamela R. David

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A

ll forms of art has in it hidden stories that entail trials and tribulations of artists struggling to make a name in the art industry. For taking art as one’s bread and butter is no walk in the park – you have to be adequately great to attract customers whose genuine devotion for the arts and aesthetics is matched only by the passion of the artist who makes art as an integral part of his daily life.

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THE WOMAN BEHIND Mrs. Medina D. Manabat was the woman behind the framing business that has been patronized by TarlaqueĂąos, whose noteworthy clients include the office of the Tarlac City mayor. Reluctant at first, the pleasantly woman-of-few-words wafted an air of becoming humility, a trait that true artists characteristically possess.

Together with her husband, Manabat launched their framing and needle craft business inside the comforts of their own home in the year 1999. Came August 18, 2007, they got their own kiosk situated at Cutcut 1st, Tarlac City with the inception of their wood framing business. With no less than 10 customers daily, Manabat Handicrafts was formed as an initially small enterprise that would, in the long run, bear fruits that they themselves will reap with relish.

HOW IT STARTED According to Manabat, their business started with wood laminations. Since it is so believed that customers are a merchant’s boss, they were offered to make cross stitches that subsequently got them the idea to incorporate it in their embroidery. They

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procure the materials and provisions from Manila where they have seen how cross stitches are actually utilized with wooden, complementary frames, and that’s how they came up with the idea of wood framing.

HOW FRAMES ARE MADE The process involves three parts: (1) matting the frame; (2) making the frame; and (3) the finishing touches. The first thing to do is to measure the mat or the cardboard, the size of which would depend on the length and width of the artwork. The second part includes the formation of the frame, the material to be used, cutting it, and putting all the parts together. Finally, the insertion of the glass and the artwork into the furnished frame.

The length of time it would take to finish a handcraft depends on the complexity of the handiwork.

Manabat also disclosed that they customize medals which would take the longest time to make among the handicrafts that her customers ask her to accomplish.

They were only few in Tarlac who make wood framing their pivotal means of livelihood. Some who had worked for her now manage their own wood framing business, but she expressed how she bears no grudges upon them. She taught them the process and she was glad that she was able to impart knowledge that made them start their own business— through her guiding hands.

What makes the Manabat Handicrafts unique from others or what made it so patronized by Tarlaqueños? According to Manabat, it’s the quality, affordability, and the authority that the latter established in her wood framing business, citing how she was able to accept complicated offers from customers and actually getting those jobs done that effectually results to the unremittingly supreme satisfaction of her clients.

Trials in building the business include the search for willing workers because the work, she asserted, would not be finished in just a span of a week or a month. Handcrafting is a continuous process.

“

The length of time it would take to finish a handcraft depends on the complexity of the handiwork.”

FRUITS OF HAND WORK Building a business undoubtedly demands a substantial amount of patience, persistence, and discipline.

For a business to thrive, throwing in the towel during tough times should never be the topmost option, for these are but trials that are meant to be conquered and not obstacles to steer clear ourselves of.

Manabat family is a living proof of success that was pleasantly framed: Through her chosen craft, she had her offspring graduate from college, build their own house they can essentially call their home, and were able to expand the business by having another branch in progress in Nueva Ecija. And guess what? One of her children is expected to inherit the business and develop it into his bigger means.

A business in the arts, no matter how small, would require discipline and persistence from its owners. With continuous hard work, the proverbial pot of gold would be seized. A family picture, protected by a delicate yet enduring frame that adds up a sort of nostalgic ambience, shall be placed strategically inside the house – reminding that family is what really makes us keep going, be it in pursuing a degree or crafting a business.

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FEATURE • MOVIE REVIEW

Flicks of the Rainbow Flag Film stills and posters from Google

A RUNDOWN OF LGBTQIA-THEMED FILMS IN THE LOCAL SCENE

By Isaih Kyle C. Umipig

“

A lot of the LGBT stories that we’ve seen, it’s always about coming out. There’s always that struggle about coming out or hiding, but there are no stories out there of just them being themselves.”

– WANGGO GALLAGA

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Today’s filmmakers have created a discourse of their own as they have produced short and full-length films which focus on the deep-seated stories of the members of the spectrum.

Gays, who then portray roles as laughingstocks and the clichéd besties of the protagonist in motion pictures, have a newlyestablished façade for the spectators. At this point, the nucleus of the stories revolves

around the concepts of coming out, of strength, of what is real, of their societal struggles, of what the society told us not to look at.

We watched some of these films and the following are some of the coming-of-age tales in the local scene which wave and sway the rainbow flag with no qualms, with zero hints of susceptibility – just because this community is fierce and unshakable.

Sa Saíyang Islá Dir. Christian Candelaria Rating:

Ang Huling Cha-Cha ni Anita Dir. Sigrid Andrea Bernardo Rating: It is with no doubts that this film was hailed as Best Picture at the 2013 CineFilipino Film Festival. While its focus is on sexual awakening, it also creatively taps relevant issues such as abortion and the society’s double standards.

Anita is the only daughter of Lolita, a devotee of Santa Clara whose only desire for her princess is to be a beauty queen when she grew up. But that is not what Anita’s heart speaks—until Pilar reached their town.

Pilar elicits three faces of the story when she arrived in her former home: one, she is a photograph of nostalgia for the people who knew her before she left; two, for those who consider themselves glazed with religiosity, she is a photograph of temptation that is to be erased, to be thrown away; and three, for Anita, she is a photograph of a breath-taking dawn enough to bat an eyelid at her sexual awakening.

The film is flexible as it discussed the acceptance of a lesbian not only in her family but also in the community in a soothing style. The film was mellow, and it was not – until it was packed with relevant social issues.

Above all, the beauty of this film lies in the entirety of its creation. It was light, poignant, and remarkably inspiring.

Sa Saíyang Islá (In His Island) follows the story of Dinggoy, a prepubescent young boy, and his family whose house squats in a small fishing community. The whole community is struggling with their means of livelihood (i.e. fishing) because of an oil spill. This struggle, however, is the seed of the sexual awakening of the cheerful young boy as Dinggoy dreams to become a mermaid because he believes that these sea creatures are those who calm the sea and help the fishermen to catch more fish.

The film is sandwiched “between inner worlds and social realities.”

It successfully defied gender stereotypes and preconceived notions of what it means to be a mermaid, of what it really means to be a boy or a girl.

It encourages that every parent can undergo a unique progression from awareness to understanding, from understanding to tolerance, and from tolerance to total acceptance, and more importantly, genuine support.

Just like what the director wrote as a dedication in his undergrad thesis, “To all gender non-conforming children, just keep swimming.”

Die Beautiful Dir. Jun Lana Rating: Die Beautiful is an entry to the 42nd Metro Manila Film Festival where it bagged 4 major awards including Best Actor for Paolo Ballesteros, who portrayed the role of Trisha Echevarria, a transgender woman who dreamed of becoming a beauty queen.

It is very refreshing for the whole spectrum for the birth of Jun Lana’s film that finally delivered the real picture of a disposition of a transwoman in a very different and humanly manner.

The film revolves around the life of Trisha, her struggle of coming out, her genuine identity associated with strength, confidence, joy, and at times, vulnerability. When she was expelled by her bigoted father in their own home, this entails the beginning of her new story—new name, new undertakings. She had a daughter and established a new family with her best friend, Barbs, and the significant people who meddled with her life as she makes a living by joining gay beauty contests.

Die Beautiful is queerly human. It shows how Trisha experienced to love, how she was loved back by her non-biological daughter, how she was betrayed by men she loved, how she was disowned by her true family just because she is a transgender woman, and how she continued her life despite hurdles and such.

She regenerated life, and then she dies young.

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Ang High School at si Olive

•••

Dir. Keana Karol Trasporte Rating: What I like about this charismatic little film is how it showed how real is being real, how it was “just little” but jam-packed with a lot of love. It is a story of two girls studying in a Catholic school which is fundamentally run by nuns and Catholic morals; they are as genuine as solid gold when they show their love to each other in a sea of unfamiliar faces.

These unfamiliar eyes, also, are the reason behind how they decide to portray their real selves in the society.

Ang High School at Si Olive situates Olive, the protagonist of the film, in various social settings such as her school, home, and religious community which vastly affect her principles and emotional responses. With the recurring conflicts brought about by these social environments, the film tried to explore what the major character will choose to be.

In short, it was tough because it does not conform to what other people’s eyes would like to witness.

But to all the girls who like other girls, the society’s standards are what is wrong, not your definition of love.

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2 Cool 2 Be 4gotten

With the rise of the independent film-making in the country, LGBTQIA+ films are great platforms for directors, writers, and producers to open the eyes of the people. Cinematic movements like these films definitely helps the community to help other people understand how queer-sexuality works. It is certain that in the coming years, we will be celebrating more LGBTQIA-themed films and sooner or later, all preconceived notions about sexuality will sashay away. Acceptance and equality will smile back to every member of the society notwithstanding any color in the spectrum they represent. Long live!

Dir. Petersen Vargas Rating: It was like a moving Instagram account—light, passionate, symbolic— until you realized it was a film.

2 Cool 2 Be 4gotten introduces Felix Salonga, a bright, wellarticulated student, in a symbolic opening shot where the scene centered on his eyes—a vivid depiction of the readiness of coming out. But the concept of sexual awakening was not a thing yet when one day, in Felix’s class, Magnus Snyder, together with his brother Maxim, half-American transferees, arrived. Everything has changed since then.

The film has set conflicts through the Snyder brothers who fuel odd desires to Felix. It elevates the story into Felix having rough reactions to his own sexual awakening.

It was totally filled with visual metaphors that will make you ponder deeper on it. A perfect instance is in the latter scene where Felix was on the lahar-surrounded grasslands, seeing a specter of Magnus from a distance.

After which, he took off his clothes. It was like a representation that after all the traumatic occurrences, he is finally ready to welcome his new nature not with Magnus, but with his newlyfound identity.

It was like a moving Instagram account—light, passionate, symbolic— until you realized it was more than just a film. It’s an experience of growing up that you will never ‘4get’.

Today’s filmmakers have created a discourse of their own as they have produced short and full-length films which focus on the deep-seated stories of the members of the spectrum.

FEATURE • BOOK REVIEW

After Dark by Haruki Murakami

By Christian Dela Pena

with streams of red and white headlights, consecutive blinking of city lights and then zooming into Mari who reads a book inside Denny’s restaurant. After a few moments, she was accompanied

by Takahashi, a slightly average man that plays trombone in a jazz band who also happens to have dated her sister Eri before.

The two of them, along with Takahashi’s friend Kaoru, a former professional wrestler who now owns a love hotel called Alphaville, spend their night helping out a beaten Chinese prostitute in Kaoru’s hotel, exploiting a Chinese mafia, and do what most people don’t—live under the veiled deep blue stretch.

W

hen the sky plunges into darkness and millions of dots of various sizes glimmer in the endless night sky, most people take this phase of the day to rest their tired bones.

Some leave traces of themselves in each other’s skin, others are just trying to heal their ripped flesh.

There are those who find their lungs taste the air of the streets at night and in rare cases, trapped inside the unbounded silence of the night.

After Dark is a Japanese novel written by Haruki Murakami published in 2004 and was later translated to English published in 2007. The book’s contemporary, thriller, fiction, and magical realism genre will stir the emotions of the readers into one swirling cup of Japan’s rich literature.

While Eri is on her own trying to scrap her eerie state, trapped inside her own body, asleep in her bedroom while her consciousness slowly comes to life, a man with no face shows up sitting on a chair in her unplugged television.

Soon Eri found herself trapped inside the unplugged television beseeching for a helping hand to break through her horrendous state.

This review necessarily shares details of the plot and other salient features, or “spoilers.”

After Dark’s plot revolves around a single night in Tokyo, following the stories of the Asai sisters, Mari and Eri. Mari is a 19-year-old college student who studies to become a Chinese translator. When she was a child, she was often bullied by her peers until she convinced her parents to move her to a Chinese school where she found it less competitive and much friendlier.

She sees herself as the “ugly sister” when compared to her older sister Eri. Her sister, Eri Asai, is a fashion model and is quite popular for her pretty face. Eri is trapped in a deep slumber of oblivion for two months and no one knows why.

Her family took her to a doctor several times to have her checked but she turned out to be just well, still she remained in her dozed-off breaths.

When they were little, the sisters were close with each other and have made memories together. But just like most siblings, the two slowly grew apart. The story begins as the narrator and the readers take the form of a bird roaming the cloaked night sky of Tokyo

The readers can see what the characters fail to; they also take their sense of smell in some junctures, shift angles on some scenes to have a better view.

The story is narrated in an omniscient point of view as though the reader is inside the book, shifting from Mari out in the streets of Tokyo and Eri in her room of horror. The narrator often uses “we,” “us,” and in a collective sense, “I.” The readers can see what the characters fail to; they also take their sense of smell in some junctures, shift angles on some scenes to have a better view.

However, the readers, as well as the narrator are limited of their privileges. They are invincible inside the story and leave the scenes without a trace nor a lingering presence.

The book is recommended for readers who luxuriate in Japanese literatures as well as for those who are just searching for something to read. Personally, I recommend this book for Murakami’s beginners.

The writing style is well-crafted, warping the readers inside the story without knotty words while the symbolisms thoroughly capture the novel’s plain atmosphere.

The story tackles a chunk of the immense life of those who live in the dark night, as well as what happens after the dark.

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FEATURE • ARTS

ALIPATO Enkindling the fervor of Tarlac artists

W

By Andrea S. Espinosa, Albritch Adam A. Labiano and Kenneth Leo V. Pamlas

hat is left to be seen after a surge of a dying fire?

The fragments of nature that emanate from the remnants of flames soar suspended upon the air like glowing relics that are on the verge of disappearance. At the recent Alipato group show, Tarlac-based artists come together to examine the allegories of human existence paralleled to the metaphorical concept of embers—a symbolism of what fuels these artists to rise from the flames and proliferate beyond their personal artistic space.

In a province where the influence of art continues to struggle for the establishment of its own local identity, a young set of artists continues to keep their colors aflame with the embers of inspiration. The culture of the newly-urbanized city of Tarlac, with its fast-paced way of living, has yet to fully develop the art

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scene that looms in the background of our everyday living. Now, with the onslaught of budding artists that are starting to gain recognition both in the local and the mainstream, we see a glimpse of the rich, homegrown works that define the contemporary epoch of our local art scene.

These Tarlac-based artists, collectively known as the Talaib Art Group, significantly garner positive reviews and commendations among art enthusiasts as well as among the public. Though the integration of local art scene towards the mainstream has been in the works for years now, the efforts of these artists notably paves the way for the public to acknowledge art in ways that are new to us. Drawn by their fervor to be seen by the crowd, these young Tarlaqueños craft their artworks in a way that can be interpreted as a unified blend of individual styles and purposes.

Lutang sa Langit

by Romer Pavilando

Oddity

by Judeo Herrera

Fueling the glowing ember Alipato is a Filipino word which means “glowing ember,” primarily referring to the fragments of wood flying from a dying fire. Because of the relevance of its nature, the group that was headed by Judeo Herrera, Jared Yokte, and Abe Orobia, ultimately made “Alipato” their theme in this art exhibition that was ran at the infamous Art Cube Gallery in Makati City from June 9 to 28, 2018. The group show was exhibited alongside three more shows that featured Georjanno Abenoja, Mark Andy Garcia, and another group show by Bulacan-based artists.

The show featured 19 artists, namely Chrisanto Aquino, Benjie Bisaya, Lander Capiz, Judeo Herrera, Jayme Lucas, Ace Navarro Marimla, Abe Orobia, Gyang Pascual, Romer Pavilando, Patsung Ramento, Madeyleine Renee, Gao Rezaga, Crisha Sagun, Kadi Santos, Harlem Sunga, Jan Marco Tabamo, Roniel Vitamor, David Wubneh, and Jared Yokte—each of them celebrating their individual styles that converge into a unique and intricate series of works that gave birth to Alipato.

The exhibited works of each artist are indicative of how their sense of individuality can delve into deeper artful concepts that give rise to the developing art scene of the Tarlac province. The show can be considered as an account of how these young creatives, who are mostly products of Tarlac State University’s College of Architecture and Fine Arts, can rise beyond the status quo.

Escape

by Jayme Emille Lucas

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by David Wubneh

by Ace Navarro Marimla

Imaginary Friends

Light 42 the work | metanoia

Corazon

by Jared Yokte

Meanwhile, In The Filthy Garden

that stand out against a chaotically comforting textured background. Abe Orobia’s pen and ink piece, Light, also evokes a sense of Filipiñana spirit that conjure a nationalistic feel among its viewers.

Other works from the participating artists also sparked favorable interest. In Jayme Lucas’ work, entitled Escape, a desire for retreat is seen; a depiction of the contrasting conditions of life painted amidst a dark setting. Meanwhile, Lander Capiz’s Mukmok is a wistful portrayal of a child in a familiar state of pagmumukmok, along with the parallel serenity of nature that mimics the tender vulnerability of childhood emotion. As the face of the child merges with the skies, the viewers are

by Abe Orobia

Alipato explores the unimagined realm of both introspective and outward observations of human life. The works exhibited by these artists convey deeply personal meanings that are translated into thick layers of color and meticulously crafted sculptures.

In Jared Yokte’s Meanwhile, In The Filthy Garden, his signature style is evident in the surrealist feel that encapsulates the canvas, reflecting his previous works that tackle the peculiar themes of human experience through dark palettes and intricate characters translated visually through an assemblage of lines. Judeo Herrera’s piece, entitled Oddity, explores the eccentric duality of existence in neutral tones that is reminiscent of his human forms

transported back to nostalgic memories of childhood— when happiness and freedom meant a naive longing for a chance to play outside our homes.

Ace Navarro Marimla’s Imaginary Friends stands out from the rest. With its surrealist and zoomorphistic themes that represent a playful and imaginative escape from reality, his sinister characters form a bond both in the canvas and in the audience’s mind—all afloat in dreamy hues and the artist’s distinct detailed use of his technique.

David Wubneh’s Corazon also represents a portraiture of womanhood rendered in his signature palette, serving as an elegy and a tribute to his subject along with the memory of the life teachings that gave birth to who he is today as an individual.

Also exploring other forms of media, Harlem Sunga remarkably utilizes symbolism as a testament of artistry and craftsmanship in his wood series, Gawang Kamay.

Meanwhile, Lutang sa Langit by Romer Pavilando makes use of the epoxy medium to create a piece that uniquely stands among the clouds.

Digging beyond the roots But what perhaps piqued the interest of the viewers is the 8 x 12 feet collaborative painting Maniam Pukaque, which was first shown in the local exhibit of the same name last 2017 at the Museo de Tarlac. This work of art surprised the exhibit audience with its magnitude, both in terms of its size and the rich variation of original styles

Mukmok

by Lander Capiz

by different artists, all put together to showcase Tarlac’s life and culture. This is a representation of how individual styles can be unified to make the mainstream scene recognize Tarlac and its burgeoning art.

The exhibit as a whole also serves as a cry for more recognition when it comes to local art. One of the purposes of shows like this, according to Herrera, is to encourage the province to cultivate a community that sustains art in its culture. Given that the art market is not yet decentralized from imperial Manila, what the collective wants is to build a stronger leverage in the local community to encourage more Tarlaqueños to patronize art.

Thus, to further celebrate their collective, around 30 artists from the province will once again come together for their Maniam Pukaque anniversary exhibit this October 2018 at the Museo de Tarlac

Sparking the flame Gawang Kamay

by Harlem Sunga

Ultimately, Alipato serves as a platform to reveal art as an experience; that as we look beyond the layers of colors, textures, and techniques, what we would see are the deeply rendered meanings that we can subjectively relate with our own interpretation of what it means to be human.

With these works, we are offered with the chance to partake in lighting the fire for these local artists. It is an ode to Tarlac and its culture, sparking a sense of solidarity in the name of art.

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FEATURE • HISTORY

A Walk Through

By Adam Albritch A. Labiano

Tarlac is a diversely cultured province which narrates an unheard call of historical prominence

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as an important figure in the Philippine history. The history of this province pictures the Tarlaqueños’ own identity as a resilient community, triumphantly

Tarlac’s History

be written in a piece of paper, is a thing of the past that cannot be hidden as it is vital for the completion of the historical events in the country.

References: The Cabecera of Tarlac by Prof. Lino L. Dizon, tarlaccity.gov.ph, xiaochua.net, nhcp.gov.ph | Photos from Google

standing hundreds of years after the Spanish colonial government proclaimed its foundation up to the tragic World War 2. Tarlac’s history, though brief enough to

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LATHALAIN • NASYON

Ang Walang Kwentang Kwento sa Likod ng Pagkwenta ni NEDA Sa panulat ni Lander Victor G. Tejada

S

ampung libo sa isang buwan?

Magtatalunan ang mga lolo’t lola natin sa tuhod kung ganiyan ang sweldo nila noong panahon nila.

Makakapamalengke, makakapasyal, at makakakain na sila sa labas at paniguradong may matitira pa para sa pang-araw-araw na gastusin ng pamilya.

Ngunit sa panahon ngayon, ang 10,000 pesos ay hirap nang magpasikip ng refrigerator at magpabigat ng bulsa ng mga anak na nagaaral sa pampublikong paaralan. Ni hindi na

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rin nito kayang pondohan ang pamamasyal ng buong pamilya kahit minsan lang sa isang buwan.

Alam ng pamahalaan at lalong mas alam ng mga ekonomista na mistulang spaghetti na nga ang ating piso sapagkat pababa na nang pababa ang halaga nito sa pamilihan. Dahil sa Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN), mas lalong nagmahal ang ng mga commodities, lalo na ang paborito nating iced tea at soft drinks. Siyempre, sumunod na ring nagsitaas ang pamasahe at iba pang serbisyo.

P

ero sabi ni Aling Neda, sapat na raw ang P10,000 para sa isang pamilyang binubuo ng lima upang mabuhay nang disente sa loob ng isang buwan.

Nang ito’y aking mabasa sa Facebook, naisip kong nanaginip nang maganda ang National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) at nakita nito sa kanyang panaginip kung paano magmahika ang ating mga ekonomistang magulang para mapagkasya ang nasabing halaga sa loob ng isang buwan.

Normal lang na tumaas ang kilay natin sa deklarasyong ito ng NEDA. Sabi pa nga ng iba, ito ay isang insulto sa mga manggagawa.

Paliwanag naman ng NEDA, ang nasabing halaga ay hypothetical lamang at dito naguumpisa ang kwentong kwenta ni Aling Neda…at ang kalupitan ng mass media. #10KCHALLENGE Dito nag-umpisa ang suntukan sa pagitan ng taumbayan at ng NEDA. Sa dinami-rami ng sinabi at ipinaliwanag ng NEDA patungkol sa isyu, ito ang lumitaw sa telebisyon at social media: ten thousand pesos is enough for a family of five to live a decent life. Bukod sa paulit-ulit na P10,000, mayroon pang breakdown ang NEDA ng halagang ito.

Hypothetical Monthly Budget: P3,834 – pagkain P1,288 – upa ng bahay P2,204 – tubig at kuryente P2674 – pamasahe, medisina, gastusin sa pag-aaral, atbp.

Sa unang tingin pa lang, mangangasim na agad ang tiyan mo. Pero bakit hindi natin subukan? Dahil ‘hypothetical figure’ lang naman iyong 10,000, gumawa rin tayo ng ‘hypothetical family’ at gumawa rin tayo ng ‘hypothetical budget.’

Unahin natin ang Familja UTI. Sabihin nating sa pamilyang ito ay mayroong tatlong bata na nag-aaral na sa sekundarya, at ang kanilang bahay ay dalawang sakayan pa papunta sa paaralan. Silang lahat ay malulusog at walang iniindang sakit.

Kung susundin ng Familjia UTI ang pagbabadyet ng NEDA, ganito ang allowance ng kada miyembro ng pamilya araw-araw: P25 = Pagkain P20 = Pamasahe (kung hindi nagsisimba tuwing linggo) P45 = Kabuuan Sa pagkekwentang ito ay hindi nagalaw ang pambayad sa tubig, kuryente, at upa ng bahay.

Kung iisipin nating mayroon naman silang bombahan ng tubig, gumagamit sila ng gasera tuwing gabi, at pagmamay-ari naman nila ang bahay, maaaring maging ganito ang kanilang allowance kada araw:

P40 = pagkain P30 = pamasahe (bawasan ang pagkain kung magsisimba ng linggo) P70 = Kabuuan Sa unang tingin, mukhang sapat naman ang ganitong allowance. Ngunit sa allowance na iyan ay nakapaloob na ang kakainin mo sa buong araw (almusal, tanghalian, merienda, at hapunan).

Makakakain ka lamang nang sapat kung lalakarin mo na lang papunta sa iyong paaralan o kumpanya kung saan ka nagtatrabaho.

Dapat mo ring ipanalangin na sana walang amoeba ang iniinom mong libreng tubig.

Sa ganito kaliit na badyet araw-araw, ang maghangad na makapamasyal o mapakapagpa-load ay nangangahulugang handa kang magkaurinary tract infection kaka-instant noodles.

Ngayon, tignan naman nating ang aking ikalawang ‘hypothetical family’, ang Hepamilya. Sabihin nating sa pamilyang ito ay taga-Matatalaib, Tarlac City lang.

At dahil swerte ang pamilyang ito, triplets ang magkakapatid at sabay-sabay silang aakyat ng kolehiyo ngayong semestre (buti na lang, free na ang tuition).

‘Yon nga lang, diabetic si tatay. Sa pagkakataong ito, hindi natin masusunod ang pagbabadyet ng NEDA. Tignan muna natin ang mga gastusin na hindi pwedeng tipirin.

P3,000 = Maintenance ni tatay P1,500 = Mga gastusin sa pag-aaral ng triplets (group projects, org. fees, computer shop, etc.)

P4,500 = Kabuuan Kung ganito ang pamilya mo, kailangan ko pa bang ipakita kung sasapat ang 10,000?

P2,204 = Tubig at kuryente P2,340 = Pamasahe sa jeepney (9 x 2 x 5 x 26) P4,500 = Gastusing hindi maiwasan P9,044 = Kabuuan P956 = Natitirang pera para sa pagkain Sa ganitong badyet, P6 na lang kada araw ang mailalaan nila sa pagkain ng bawat miyembro ng pamilya. Sa totoo lang, tatlong piraso na lang ng kung anuman sa hepa-lane ang mabibili ng sais. Pero kung makakapagtipid sila ng P1000 sa kuryente at maglalakad na lang silang lahat pauwi arawaraw, maaaring maging P20 ang kanilang allowance sa pagkain at makakatatlong kagat na sila ng kwek-kwek sa umaga, tanghali, at hapon. Huwag lang silang magpapaambon dahil kapag sinipon ang isa, hindi sila makakabili ng gamot.

May mga nagsasabi naman na sasapat ang 10,000 sa mga pamilyang nasa probinsya na nagtatanim ng sarili nilang pagkain. Totoo ito. Ngunit hindi mas maraming pamilyang Pilipino ang hindi self-sufficient at kailangan pang bumili ng kanilang pangangailangan sa araw-araw.

Teka, anong klaseng pamilya ba ang tinutukoy ng NEDA? ANG TOTOONG KWENTO NG NEDA Wala namang tinutukoy na pamilya ang NEDA. At hindi rin nito sinabing kayang mabuhay ng disente ng pamilyang Pilipino sa halagang 10,000 lamang. Ito ay misquotation lamang ng media. Ano nga ba ang trip ng NEDA at ano ang nais nitong palabasin?

Ninais ng NEDA na ipahayag ang noong Hunyo 5 ang latest inflation rate ng bansa upang maipabatid sa mga tao kung gaano kabilis ang pagtaas ng mga presyo ng bilihin.

Ayon sa datos, ang official inflation rate noong Mayo ay 4.6%.

Bilang normal na mamamayan, paano mo iintindihin ang numerong ito? Dito naisipan ng NEDA na gumawa ng ‘hypothetical budget.’ Sa kanilang halimbawang P10,000 na monthly income ng isang pamilya, dahil sa implasyon, mangangailangan pa sila ng karagdagang P460 para masustentuhan ang kanilang karaniwang gastusin sa loob ng isang buwan.

Ngunit dahil kailangan ng extra-income ng media, binigyang diin nila ang kwentong kwenta ng NEDA, na hypothetical lang naman. Hindi pa nga nila isinama iyong P460 sa balita nila.

Sa kabilang banda, hindi na rin naman dapat nagbigay ng ‘hypothetical breakdown’ ang NEDA dahil wala naman itong maitutulong sa pag-unawa ng taumbayan sa ipinupunto nila.

Sa madaling salita, lahat ng pagkekwentang ginawa natin ay walang kwenta.

Kaya kapag may kaibigan kang nangutang sa iyo ng pera, pautangin mo ng haypotetikal na barya. Mahirap na ang buhay.

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FEATURE • ADVOCACY

Prism in Contrast

THE RAINBOW COMMUNITY IN

Harmony

Artwork from vanessarodegher.com

By Andrea S. Espinosa and Christian Q. Dela Pena

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In the Philippines, the ways in which we wear our pride are as bright and broad as the color spectrum of the rainbow.

T

he national discourse on gender has been actively evolving throughout the years, as the people try to constantly emulate and adapt to the changes in our culture. Our identities as Filipino people can be summed from the diversity of our beliefs that vary all throughout the regions of the country. The shift in our generations also plays a critical role in discussing the complex issue of gender. It dictates the causal factors in understanding the way we embrace our gender identities, as well as how we participate in the Filipino people’s journey to the acceptance of all sexual and gender minorities.

making it the highest in the Southeast Asian region. Other forms of harassment against the LGBT+ community also exist every day, mostly rooted from discrimination.

The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT+) movement is a long-running movement originating from the United States’ sexual revolution in the 1960s. The term LGBT rose to cultural popularity in the 1990s, when gender activists in the US felt a greater need for an all-encompassing movement which would aim to emphasize and promote gender diversity and inclusivity. As the movement quickly became widespread all over the world, the international community has been more open to engaging in gender policies and rights discourse, paving the way for the LGBT community to endorse their campaigns.

The greener pastures of hope

The dark side in the lives of LGBT+ But even as the movement continues to be popularized in the world, the Philippines still has a long way to go in terms of upholding gender equality and empowerment. As a deeply patriarchal society that generally rejects the gay community because of our Roman Catholic upbringing, our country still invariably witnesses discrimination and harassment towards LGBT+ people as countless cases of hate crimes against them are recorded.

In 2014, one of the worst violence crimes against the transgender community took place in Olongapo City, when U.S. Marine Joseph Scott Pemberton brutally murdered Jennifer Laude after finding out that she was a transgender and then later on admitting to court that he was “repulsed.” The Philippines has documented at least 30 cases of murders of transgender people nationwide since 2008,

Too often, we find the members of the LGBT+ community struggling to establish their status in the society. The violent abuse that the community undergoes is just one of the many struggles of the sector. Discrimination in schools, workplaces, and even in the streets is nothing out of the ordinary in the everyday lives of LGBT+ people. They encounter many faces of negative judgment that withers the colors of pride that they ought to wear.

On the surface, the Filipino people are largely tolerant of homosexuality, making the Philippines one of the most gay-friendly countries in the world. In a survey conducted

by Pew Research entitled “The Global Divide on Homosexuality,” 73% of Filipinos believe that homosexuality should be accepted in our society, giving the Philippines the second highest acceptance rate for the LGBT+ in the Asia Pacific region, next to Australia’s 79%.

However, tolerance does not necessarily equate to acceptance. While hate crimes against the LGBT+ community still continues to rise, the equality sought by gender advocates is also still far from being genuinely achieved.

The struggles of the LGBT+ movement in the country continue to intensify as the national legislation fails to act upon pro-LGBT+ laws. The passage of the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity or Expression (SOGIE) Equality Bill, or formerly Anti-Discrimination Bill, is still under the scrutiny of our legislators.

This long-overdue bill aims to primarily protect the basic rights of LGBT+ people and promote campaigns that will end the worsening stigma and discrimination against homosexuality in the Philippines. Moreover, the LGBT+ sector also continues to push for the legalization of same-sex marriage in the Philippines, which will grant same-sex couples the fundamental rights of marriage enjoyed by heterosexual couples. This fight for LGBT+ recognition in our national laws accounts for the vibrant hope

of the community for a better future.

The colors of pride Amidst the struggles faced by the LGBT+ sector, the month of June serves as the annual “Pride Month,” which seeks to celebrate the culture and pride of the movement and rally their campaigns and advocacies in the streets.

With gratitude, freedom, and unity pocketed in their hearts, more than 25,000 participants marched the different and dazzling kinds love towards Marikina Sports Complex which was also attended by various popular personalities.

Son of famous politician Risa HontiverosLuis was all smiles halfway the radiant glees among the soaring rainbow flags while Ang Probinsyano breakout star Awra Briguela flaunted the beaming colors of the LGBT+ under the gay sky. Spoken word poet Juan Miguel Severo, comedian John Lapus, and award-winning actress Iza Calzado were also seen pitching and slinging some love in the air.

Pride Fair also kept the attendees entertained, from marriage booths and booths that sold LGBT+ books, stickers, and accessories to jamming and dancing to some Carly Rae Jepsen and Ariana Grande hits.

With the theme “Rising Up,” event coordinator Nikki Castillo described this year’s theme as a starting point for everyone to start pushing and pointing out LGBT+ rights. Moreover, the theme also took a big brave step compared to last year’s Pride March wherein the rainbow contrast mainly focused on the solidarity of warm companionship whilst this year’s theme encourages everyone to be better advocates, allies, and activists.

Despite the contrast of social status, people were gathered in one place to signify their fortitude and tenderness even with the diverse tones and colors on how our community recognizes the LGBT+ community. And although Pride Month only lasts for a month, the pride of being something else, of being unique, the pride of being able to love beyond the borders of our society has established will remain longer than 30 days, longer than happily ever after.

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Literary REPEATER

Arsenio S. Santiago Jr. I'm the apple of my teacher's eye, and I am not bragging. She calls my name every day to just to read sentences in front of the class.

This day, I read a line on the board and out of nowhere, I was applauded by my teacher and my classmates were amazed. " th-the bo-b-booyyy iszz sit-t-ting on th-the che-ch-chair ---" "Very good Mr. Santiago! you're getting better now. I hope you to continue practicing reading." said Mrs. Vasquez, my third grade teacher.

I am 17 now, and I hope to pass her class this time, after a long time, after reading that line.

I will really practice reading.

SYNCHRONIZED Isaih Kyle C. Umipig tick-tock. tick-tock. i was outside. everything’s blurry; the wheels are in a hurry tick-tock. tick-tock. i was shakily nervous. mercy, oh, mercy. tick tick tock tock i lift my right hand— touched my forehead, and then my chest. my hands to my left shoulder, and then to the other. tick tock tick toot…

toot… toot…

the scene became hazy, and the doctor said sorry.

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END TIMES Andrea Nicole B. Sapnu

WHERE DID ALL MY TOMORROWS GO? Andrea Nicole B. Sapnu The first lesson I had about time is when my grandmother told me that days don’t get infinitely stretched out like bubblegum, where one end is stuck to your sole and the other end is stuck to the sidewalk – almost endlessly extending, almost never breaking.

Just as earthly strings go, she said days will eventually arrive to their cutting point; and the Yesterdays that became Todays will eventually become Tomorrows.

Tomorrows.

I always believed that Tomorrows are prophecies that are never meant to be fulfilled.

I know this because Mom never came home.

Dad did not get the job.

The food remained touched, The faucet , yet to be replaced.

And all promises I know of are always due on Tomorrows instead of Todays.

So whenever I ask myself questions like “When do I get to build the Noah’s ark to my cascading, surging storm?”

At last, we had arrived at the very brink of time; when the trumpet sounds descended and the prophecies aligned.

A war, grand as foretold thoroughly took its toll; now there’s no more use for calendars and clocks of the new and old.

Since then, the Earth subdued

from its once eccentric mood;

roads once packed with rushing motorists now only reeking with a feeble scent of crude.

Traffic now becomes pointless

rush hour concludes to exist;

because where’s the point in hurrying

when all the chances have been missed?

And for once, there aren’t deadlines

neither labor to be dealt;

the End knows no earthly currency

could fit into heaven’s belt.

It is only then we understand

wholly, at the times of End

that the streak of mere yearning and longing

had our time generously spent.

However As long as the awaited End remains unparticular with His time perhaps we’d be brave enough to depend choices on the flip side of the dime; No matter how preposterous, and no matter how grime before all the chances run out on us at the very brink of time.

“Tomorrow.”

A faint whisper from behind my head will retort.

Tomorrow, Someone returns.

Someone fixes the broken faucets and light bulbs and door jambs and homes – And I will find land amid the cascading, surging storm.

But as soon as the prophecy starts falling in to place, The strings always collapse.

And the days always break.

And the tomorrows – all of my hopeful Tomorrows They always become Todays.

And the storm in my heart – It will endlessly rage.

Graphics by Kenneth Leo V. Pamlas

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EBB AND FLOW Christian Dela Pena my time will come and even the gloomy sky would disregard its sadness, and be freed from its cycle of tears. my time will come and even the tulips would let loose of their firm petals, finally letting out the hardships they had last winter. as soon as i pop this bubble that keeps me restless afloat with no certain route, my bare feet shall caress the ground, let Hades hear the trembles hear the sea moan.

Atlantis shall rise. my time will come.

MEMOIR Albritch Adam A. Labiano Demons still lie in sleep, Instilling fear with their snore Carried by air through thin vibrations – Tormenting the angels for the lord.

And their once-thought salvation.

They tear his words, throwing people in peril.

On his 6th of his 72, he will come.

Rapture, reaping of souls. Thy will be done.

DEVIL’S HOUR Albritch Adam A. Labiano

It’s 3 o’clock in the morning. Sleep can be a friend, a long-lost one that you can dearly miss during the morning but just like others, it won’t come. Night time isn’t as quiet as what we thought it could be, it’s when silence lingers into the place, replacing the noise with its roaring screams. It’s the time when you’ll feel the cold breeze of the limited air coming into the small ventilation in the ceiling, it’s chilling. You’ll hear the drops of the leaking water out of the faucets, it’s slow pace until smashing thru the floor.

Lucky enough, I’m not hearing any screams tonight, any cry of earthly souls pleading for forgiveness.

It’s 3 o’clock in the morning, and devils lurk inside our heads, hearing every lament we have. Maybe we’ve shared some of them over the cups of coffee, and small talks. It’s the time when everything converges into our head, digging deep into our senses and all we can do is cradle them with our shoulders.

It’s 3 o’clock in the morning, and his almighty sent his fallen ones to protect the living dead into the darkness brought by him.

Carrying out their disobedient obedience for his name, embracing us with shackles made for his people.

It’s 3 o’clock in the morning, and all I can with are the devils inside my head, wailing along with my torments. They’re keeping me from falling asleep tonight, accompanying my slowly-degrading soul from darkness. Tomorrow, someone will pick me up from the lord’s gates with coins to pay for my sins. The fallen will hunt for me again, for the sole reason that I have insomnia.

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Literary THE FACE OF DEPRESSION Jejomar C. Contawe She was standing there all smiles and casual, conversing with other girls whose laughs had derived from the joke she just cracked.

Unbeknownst to them, come morning, she will hang herself.

He played with his kids hide and seek, his children ecstatic his wife watching them go around the house, her smile not waning.

Unbeknownst to them, come morning, he will pull the trigger.

Her professor refused for her to graduate due to a subject she had flunked she tried not to look too affected, and instead isolated herself from the world, realizing how a single red mark could bring back her demons.

Unbeknownst to no one, come morning, she will be gone.

Depression has a fickle face that smiles and frowns, laughs and wails, it socializes and it is isolated.

In essence, anyone can be at the receiving end.

KISMET Christian Dela Pena how many times does the cat have to die before we could go home together? and we wont talk on the way home, not because were mad, or upset, but because our day is just so exhausting. we’ll just sit beside each other thankful, relieved, and resting when there’s so much going on around us how much older do i have to get before i could kiss you good bye? we’ll tell each other were sorry it didn’t work out. we’ll wish each other well and my heart would ache whenever i’d see something that’ll remind me of us. i wonder how it feels to experience all of this – your heart fluttering a little your brain going restless and then finally you’ll say it’s okay to love again. i wonder why it hasn’t come to me yet? it gets a little tiring. tell me, how long do i have to endure this longing for me to know your name? * For the people in their 20s who never fell in love

For depression has a fickle face that could resemble the sad and the clown, the comedian and the damned.

Depression’s face is misleading, and cannot be deciphered in a fleeting gaze.

Because the thing with depression is, it does not have a face.

Graphics by Kenneth Leo V. Pamlas

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DEVCOM • COVER STORY

By Isaih Kyle C. Umipig Photos by Pauline Grace B. Manzano and Isaih Kyle C. Umipig Graphics by Kenneth Leo V. Pamlas

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Labinet Tarrosa 55 years old

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T

he mountains are the skeletal system of nature, establishing the very framework of every home it allows to stand. It embraces every body of water and every skin of the earth. But aside from that, it bears a greater liability – it shelters different souls of any color, of any backgrounds, and of any perspective.

A calm setting in the mountain ranges of Capas, Tarlac is where an array of houses nestles. Looking at the entrance of each home opens the exposition of a comprehensive narrative about these Aeta women who are suffering from an illness which has long been erased in different countries of the world. As the calendar progressively tears its pages, the illness remains a mystery for a community which time and progression have left behind.

TOWARDS HOME After more than an hour of traveling from the city proper, we have reached Barangay Maruglu.

While our faces look clueless as to which road to take to successfully touch Sitio Caoayan, people from Maruglu asked us where we are headed to. They instructed us to go to the persons who will climb mountains and brave rushing rivers in the afternoon to reach the farflung sitio.

The people of Barangay Maruglu are ‘home’ to visitors that even young ages are ushers and usherettes to them. We have witnessed the lungs of the community which breathes something more essential than oxygen—that is, the sense of solidarity.

As we set foot on the starting point of our trek, they have warned us to cover our things with plastic because we might be welcomed by the rain along the hike. They told us to gear ourselves as we might exhaust our bodies too much because of five-hour walking, climbing, and crossing rivers.

Their feet are relatives to their ancestral lands because no matter how slippery the muddy routes are, they can go from one spot to

another. The trails are fitted to their soles because they can never be lost even without the use of a map or a compass. Maybe that is how their ancestors taught them – to love their lands the same as how they love their kin, to embrace their homeland the same as how they are held by their parents in their arms.

After all the tiny pebbles numbed our worn out feet, darkness was already swallowing the sun’s luminosity when we reached the sitio. Little did we knew that the reason why we were taken to the river first before proceeding to Sitio Caoayan is that someone informed the chieftain that there are visitors coming.

At that moment, we have realized that we have not reached an ordinary sitio, but definitely their so-called home. Above all the adversities they are encountering is a ray of hope which constantly reminds them that they can all go through these.

DIGGING THE ROOTS Labinet Sumaoang Tarrosa, 55, is a wife to Lagundino, the tribal chieftain of Sitio Caoayan. She is suffering from goiter for 25 years already—almost half of her life has been with the weight of unawareness.

They believed that Labinet got the illness after having three children.

“Nung dalaga pa [siya], wala pa.

Wala sa isip namin na magkakaroon siya ng goiter na ganyan kalaki,” Mang Lagundino said.

The people of Sitio Caoayan have been tied up with false ideologies that the reason why one becomes ill of goiter is that of giving birth; others would say it is because of carrying heavy objects. We can’t point the blame to them anyway the same as how we cannot blame how education and information failed to reach even their safest zones.

As explained by professionals in the medical field, a goiter is an abnormal enlargement of one's thyroid gland which causes difficulty for someone to breathe or swallow. The most common cause of this illness is the lack of iodine in one’s diet.

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The unawareness of their illness is a sibling of poverty; poverty then gives birth to an unwanted child called stagnation. Mang Lagundino said that they do not have any financial means to provide for the medical needs of her wife which is why they just left it unchecked.

“Sabi nila, kailangan daw ng asin – ‘yong iodized salt kaso wala naman kaming pera [na] pambili.

‘Yong kinikita namin, sakto lang sa pang-araw-araw. Napupunta lang sa pagkain,” he added.

Every day, their stomachs are being tickled by their staple food such as kamoteng kahoy, kamoteng gumagapang, talbos, and puso ng saging—distracting their necessity to consume better nourishment by eating nutritious foodstuff. The absence of proper nourishment is also a sole reason for the illness of the community people. Because of the inability to purchase iodine-rich food like fish and other seafood, eggs, and prunes, it is but no surprise that goiter is still inevitable for people deprived

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The unawareness of their illness is a sibling of poverty; poverty then gives birth to an unwanted child called stagnation.

of the sustenance they need.

It is a lucky day, however, when men were able to catch little fishes in the rivers. This weaves the layered fabric of the families’ real-life story a win-win moment where their tummies will be finally nurtured with some ‘real’ food.

There are various institutions and movements who offered assistance to the people who are ill with goiter. For Labinet, she has not still undergone the operation because the decision has to come from her parents. The parents’ judgments are still honored even if Labinet has been living with her own family for a long time already. For others, they are utterly afraid to be checked by the physician while some are scared that they might meet death after hours of the operation.

“Ang sa akin lang naman, bago sana operahan ay tignan kung may koneksyon ito sa puso. ‘Yon lang naman ‘yong nakakatakot. Baka kapag inoperahan siya, ikamatay niya,” Mang Lagundino said.

‘BIGLANG LUMAKI NANG LUMAKI’ “Bigla na lang na lumalaki nang lumalaki. Wala siyang iniinom na gamot,” Mang Lagundino responded when asked what they did when they have seen indications of goiter.

He furthered that there people from Ateneo De Manila University (ADMU) who want to help her. Aling Labinet is being asked to go back to the hospital but she declined because she thought she will be undergoing the operation already. She is frightened about the idea. “Parang natatakot siya. Sabi ko ibabalik ko siya kahit lang sana gamot [o kaya] pampa-check up,” he added.

Goiter is a jealous mistress which prohibits Aling Labinet from doing the chores she used to do. She was told not to accomplish tedious works anymore as she is the one who suffers when she finds it difficult to breathe.

While it is true that goiter has become a usual illness in the Aeta community in Sitio Caoayan, it is an ill-fated disclosure to know that it was not only Aling Labinet who has

it. There are about nine more women who have humps in their necks— humps which became a seeming obstruction to their daily lives. Aside from that, a man has not escaped from having the same illness. Mang Duque Sumaoang, 65, Aling Labinet’s uncle, is almost a kneeling bamboo as he is suffering from goiter for a long time already.

Mang Lagundino said that he is worried about the possible repercussions of his wife’s and his constituents’ illness. But as he went back to the inconceivable notion of having adequate financial means, his worries turned into sadness because they have nothing to do but to let things flow.

GOVERNMENT’S MOVE To a community like theirs, the attention of those who are in the position is very much necessary. Since they are residing in remote areas like Sitio Caoayan, most of the time, there is a difficult access to health services and financial assistance.

“Ang hiling ko po sana, dahil nga

po malayo kami, magkaroon po sana kami ng center para hindi na po kami bababa kung may sakit man po na taga-rito, para may gamot na kami agad,” Mang Lagundino raised.

According to him, there are some non-government organizations (NGOs) who are extending their help to them. “Noong pina-check siya (Labinet), sa tulong ng mga NGOs sa Tarlac, pinapabalik siya. Pero hindi na kami nakabalik kasi wala kaming pamasahe,” he explained, “Walang umaakyat na doktor dito. Kami dapat ‘yong bababa talaga.”

Their humble school, meanwhile, is actually established by these NGOs which provide an opportunity for the Aeta children to pursue their education. But there is still a greater need to have continuing education since their school is only for Grade 1 to Grade 3 students. It is quite hard for them to attain the genuine essence of education but with the right amount of perseverance and dedication, even though they do not have complete levels for their school yet, they are assertive that time will

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“

Ganoon pala, habang dumarami ang tao, dumarami rin ang problema. Hindi maaari na sarilihin namin ang problema; dapat may pagkakaisa at dapat tulong-tulong.”

- MANG LAGUNDINO, Village Chieftain

come that another Aeta youth will have the chance to finish his studies.

“Halos araw-araw po kaming humingi ng tulong. Ngayon kasi nagkukulang kami ng building, 117 po kasi ang mga mag-aaral dito,” Mang Lagundino said. Undoubtedly, the whole community is exhibiting a strong sense of high regards for education, despite their apparent poverty.

For Mang Lagundino, the school, the essence of education, and their livelihood are their utmost priority in their community.

“Kahit na hindi na kami makababa, basta nakakapagtanim

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kami nang mabuti ng palay at gabi, ‘yon po [ang] importante,” he added, “Gusto rin po naming makapagaral nang mabuti ang mga bata at makakain po kami. Kahit hindi na kami umasa pa sa gobyerno, basta may pangkabuhayan po.”

DEEPER TRAGEDY Their illness is only the cover of the unopened pages of their story. Lies within the sheets of their narrative are abysmal tragedies that they encounter on a daily basis.

“Dito po sa Sitio Caoayan, ayos naman po ang lagay namin.

Nahihirapan lang po kami minsan [dahil] nagkukulang kami sa pagkain kasi malayo ang Patling,” Mang Lagundino retold.

While most stories are left unread, some are unheard, and sometimes, overlooked. Once we look into a deeper point of view, we got to realize that we are fortunate enough to have the sufficient sustenance we need. When we whine over minor inconveniences, what more to a community like this one in Sitio Caoayan?

“Kung wala kaming pambili, wala kaming pagkain. Kung hindi kami maghahanapbuhay sa kabundukan

para may maibenta, wala kaming kakainin,” he said, “Minsan kasi kapag makikipagtrabaho sa ibang tao ay tinatakwil kami. Kaya dito sa lugar namin, hindi na kami aalis.

Sabi nga nila, ang lupang ninuno ay para sa katutubo.”

Our Aeta brothers and sisters in every part of the country are experiencing a prevalent conflict regarding their ancestral lands.

They maybe encountering hurdles in their lives but when all is said and done, when they got to prepare something in their dining tables, they already consider it an attainment.

“Ito’y isang katunayan na kami nga ay nasa bundok, nabubuhay at mabubuhay kami sa bundok,” Mang Lagundino emphasized, “Ganoon pala, habang dumarami ang tao, dumarami rin ang problema. Hindi maaari na sarilihin namin ang problema; dapat may pagkakaisa at dapat tulong-tulong.”

At the end of the day, people might differ with their concept of achievement but a common understanding can forward us to a better goal where symbiosis will be finally established and everyone will live in the desired harmony. ***

As the skies finally cleared up the darkness in its canvass, the sun will once again rise and smile to the pinnacles of mountains, to the hustling rivers, to every creature establishing symbiosis with another, to the people of a community who remain full of hope, and to those who have been omitted by the concept of progress and advancement.

For Labinet and to the other mothers of the mountains of Sitio Caoayan, this will heal. Their mourning will soon be over as brand new mornings commence. As the sun rises, they will always, always be trying again.

the work | metanoia 61

DEVCOM • EKONOMIYA

Nina Andrea S. Espinosa at Albritch Adam A. Labiano Mga larawang kuha ni Andrea S. Espinosa

62 the work | metanoia

K

asabay ng malawakang industriyalisasyon ay ang mahaba-habang paglalakbay ng masang Pilipino tungo sa inaasam-asam na tagumpay. Pilit na sinasabayan ang biyahe ng TRAIN Law habang binubuhat ang dagsin ng mga posibleng negatibong kahihinatnan nito.

Sa patuloy na pag-arangkada, ang destinasyon ay tila hindi pa rin tanaw. Ang mga mamamayan ba ay muli na namang tumatahak ng isang rutang hindi tiyak ang patutunguhan?

‘Nahihirapan kami, pati mamimili’ Hindi pa sumisikat ang araw ay aligagang-aligaga na ang mga manininda sa palengke ng Tarlac City. Nagsisidatingan na ang mga produktong ititinda kasabay ng pagdating ng mga mamimili. Naabutan naming nagsisinop ng kanyang mga paninda si Nanay Paula na dalawang dekada na ring tindera ng gulay sa palengke. Sa kabila ng matandang edad ng ginang ay patuloy pa rin ito sa pagbabanat ng buto.

Ngunit mayroong kinahaharap na problema si Nanay Paula at ang kanyang mga kapwa tindera. Sa mga nagdaang buwan ay halos nagtaas ang presyo ng kanilang mga inaangkat na paninda.

“Doble-doble na ang presyo ng bilihin ngayon,” tugon nito, “nahihirapan kami pati na rin ‘yong mga mamimili.”

“Doble-doble na ang presyo ng bilihin ngayon.

Nahihirapan kami pati na rin ‘yong mga mamimili.”

- NANAY PAULA, tindera ng gulay

Pag-andar ng TRAIN Ang Republic Act No. 10963 o Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Law, na naratipika noong nagdaang Disyembre ng 2017, ay siya nang umaarangkada sa buong kapuluan ng bansa ngayong taong 2018. Sa unang ilang buwan ng implementasyon nito ay samu’t sari na ang naging epekto nito hindi lamang sa pangkalahatang ekonomiya ng bansa, bagkus ay malaki rin ang inidulot nito sa mga Pilipino.

Bilang parte ng inisyal na paglulunsad ng Comprehensive Tax Reform Program sa ilalim ng pamumuno ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte, ang TRAIN Law

ay naglalaman ng mga probisyon na may karampatang pagbabago sa sistema ng ating buwis tulad na lamang ng sa personal income tax, estate tax, donor’s tax, value added tax (VAT), at excise tax ng iba’t ibang produkto sa merkado.

Ang panukalang ito ay inendorso ng Kagawaran ng Pananalapi (DOF) upang solusyonan umano ang mga kahinaan at kakulangan ng nagdaang sistema ng pagbubuwis sa bansa. Nais nitong magpatupad ng isang taxation scheme na ang batayan ay ang pinansyal na kakayahan ng mga mahihirap, kung saan sila rin ay makakukuha pa

umano ng mga benepisyo mula rito. Ito rin ay sinuportahan ng Kongreso sapagkat manggagaling dito ang porsyento ng pondo para sa proyektong Build, Build, Build ni Duterte na inaasahang magpapalago ng kita ng bansa.

Ngunit tunay nga bang nakatutulong ang TRAIN sa masang Pilipino? Ayon sa ulat na nakalap ng research group na Ibon Foundation, malaking porsyento ng 22.7 milyon na pamilyang Pilipino ay kasalukuyang minimum income wage earners pa rin o hindi kaya naman ay namamasukan pa rin sa mga di-pormal na trabaho.

Samakatuwid, maraming

pamilyang Pilipino ang hindi makikinabang sa pangako ng TRAIN sapagkat karamihan sa lower class ng populasyon ay hindi naman nagbabayad ng income tax. Mahigit pitong milyong pamilya lamang ang pinagkukunan ng personal income tax at nasa mahigit kumulang na 15 milyon pa ang natitirang maapektuhan ng TRAIN. Nangangahulugan lamang na kahit bawasan ng TRAIN ang buwis mula sa sahod ng mga manggagawa, ay mas lalo pang maghihirap ang mga ito dahil sa paglaki ng ipinataw na VAT at excise tax sa ating pang-arawaraw na pangangailangan.

the work | metanoia 63

Sa kahabaan ng riles Nang tanungin si Nanay Paula kung ano ang naging epekto ng TRAIN sa kanyang pamumuhay, nagkibit-balikat na lamang ito. “Kung mataas ang bilihin, wala namang bibili.

Siyempre malaki talaga ang epekto,” sagot nito.

Sa karatig na pasilyo ng palengke ay parehas din ang iniindang problema. Si Nanay

Corazon ay 17 taon nang nagtitinda ng galunggong sa palengke.

“Hindi namin maiwasang malugi dahil sa pagtaas ng mga presyo,” sabi nito, “Kahirapan sa atin iyong kapag tumaas nang tumaas ‘yong mga produkto sa palengke. Kawawa naman tayo.”

Pagtitiis na lamang ang tanging kayang maisagot ng ginang sa lumulobong epekto ng buwis na ipinapataw sa mga

bilihin. Namumuhunan lamang din na biktima ng buwis na ipinapataw ng gobyerno.

Malaki na ang naidagdag sa presyo ng mga bilihin nang dahil sa TRAIN lalo na sa mga produkto tulad ng langis, asukal, at iba pang mga kalakal at serbisyo. Bilang resulta nito, talamak ang pagtaas ng presyo ng mga pangangailangan, ngunit kakaunti lamang ang benepisyong nakakamal mula sa

Maaaring ang TRAIN ay may dalang pangako ng kaunlaran, ngunit ang pagbiyahe sa kaunlarang ito ay ‘di dapat sinasagasaan ang masang Pilipino.

64 the work | metanoia

epekto ng TRAIN. Isa ring epekto nito ay ang drastikong pagtaas ng inflation rate sa bansa na umabot na sa 6.4%—ang pinakamataas na naitala sa Pilipinas sa loob ng nagdaang siyam na taon.

Inaasahang mas lalaki pa ito sa mga susunod na pagtaas ng presyo ng petrolyo sa merkado sa 2019 at 2020. Bilang resulta, mas tataas umano ang presyo ng mga produktong langis na siyang pangunahing pangangailangan sa transportasyon at sa paggawa ng kuryente.

Dalawa lamang sina Nanay Paula at Nanay Corazon sa dami ng mga naghahanapbuhay na apektado ng TRAIN. Sa patuloy na pag-arangkada ng sistemang ito ay patuloy rin ang epektong dulot nito sa masang Pilipino—mula sa manininda hanggang sa mamimili. Pawang pagsabay na lamang sa presyo ng bilihin ang kayang itugon ng mga konsyumer at mamumuhunan.

Pagtitiis na lamang ang tanging kayang maisagot ng mga mamamayan sa lumulobong epekto ng buwis na ipinapataw sa mga bilihin.

Ikalawang destinasyon Sa kabila ng epekto ng TRAIN, ikinikasa na naman ngayon sa Kongreso ang TRAIN 2, o kilala rin sa tawag na “Trabaho Bill.� Ang panukalang ito ay nagbabawas ng 30% sa buwis sa kita ng mga korporasyon sa bansa.

Sinasabing makikinabang dito ang mga maliliit na negosyo sapagkat madadagdagan ang kanilang kita.

Habang ito ay totoo, ito ay tinututukan pa rin ng ibang ekonomista sapagkat ang epekto nito sa gobyerno ay ang pagkawala ng mahigit P60 bilyon mula sa corporate income tax collection.

Maaaring ang buwis mula sa TRAIN 1 ang tumustos sa kawalang ito at ang resulta ay ang patuloy na pagtaas ng mga bilihin at serbisyo sa merkado. *** Sa bansa kung saan ang mayorya ng populasyon ay lugmok sa kahirapan, masusi dapat nating tutukan ang mga nakaambang pagbabago sa ating lipunan.

Maaaring ang TRAIN ay may dalang pangako ng kaunlaran, ngunit ang pagbiyahe sa kaunlarang ito ay hindi dapat sasagasaan ang masang Pilipino.

Isang malaking dagok sa ordinaryong pamilyang Pilipino ang pagtaas ng

mga bilihin. Pinaparalisa nito ang pag-asa nilang umangat mula sa kahirapan at matamasa ang magandang bukas. Sa

22.7M pamilyang Pilipino ay minimum wage earners

patuloy na pag-arangkada ng TRAIN Law sa riles ng bansang Pilipinas ay mas lalong napagiiwanan ang mga nasa ibaba ng

6.4%

inflation rate ang pinakamataas na naitala sa Pilipinas sa loob ng nagdaang 9 taon

lipunan. Ang patutunguhan nito ay mistulang bumabalikwas sa pangako ng maunlad na kinabukasan.

30%

ang mababawas sa buwis sa kita ng mga korporasyon sa bansa sa pagpapanukala ng

TRAIN 2 the work | metanoia 65

DEVCOM • LIVELIHOOD

SPURTING THE SCENT OF SUCCESS Anao’s Ylang-Ylang Perfumes and the Eye for Global Market

By Lorddan U. Faller Photos by Isaih Kyle C. Umipig

I

f you just entered a very accommodating arc on the façade of a particular locality which instigates a warm welcome, which invites you with the honeyed aroma of the air you are inhaling, primarily, you have just entered the growing municipality of Anao. It is a fifth class municipality nestling in the northeastern part of the province and is also considered as the YlangYlang Capital of Tarlac.

With the developing industry brought by the ylang-ylang trees lies a colorful fragment of stories from the past. Now, these histories are now the building blocks of the progressive production of goods and the eye for advancement to reach the wider global market.

Back then, Ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata) flowers, having sweet smell and magnificent presence, have been used as ornaments to various arrangements and posies until the time has come that they were also

66 the work | metanoia

Ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata) is an indigenous flower in the Philippines, where the extraction also of its oil began.

been extracted for oil.

Ylang-ylang is an indigenous flower in the Philippines, where the extraction also of its oil began. The country then had a monopoly of fragrance oil where large amounts were being exported to Europe up until the commencement of World War 1.

The wars and rivalries to other nations contributed to the decline in the country’s ylang-ylang oil

production until the Second World War where many trees were pruned.

During the end of 80’s, however, the oil industry goes through renaissance when the provinces of Pampanga and Tarlac begin again in the cultivation of ylang-ylang trees and the production of essential oil that is deemed of having world-class aroma.

In the province of Tarlac, the town of Anao was discovered

With the developing industry brought by the ylangylang trees lies a colorful fragment of stories from the past.

possessing the capacity to stir up and widen the industry of ylang-ylang oil. In fact, it is now known in the entire country for being a venue where plenty of flowers with best scent of oil are ingrained.

Through these incomparable treasures of the town, Anao made this an opportunity to carry out livelihood project to aid howsoever its constituents by producing several products including the exceptionally aromatic perfumes.

These fragrances are now being notable in the country and are gradually being patronized in the world. But then the town admittedly presented in papers that they still face many problems in terms of the insufficiency of working capital and limited land area for plantation.

Amidst these encounters, can Anao still able to fulfill its vision to be recognized in the global market?

Let’s take a look on how the town strives to make itself, as well as the province, the major exporter and producer of quality ylang-ylang essential oil.

YLANG-YLANG PRODUCTS AND PROJECT Anao resides in 2, 387 hectares of land in the province. As you enter the town, lined ylang-ylang trees along roads would greet you with the sway of its branches along with garden-fresh fragrance carried by the nature’s gentle wind.

The extraction of oil from ylangylang in the municipality started in 1989 as well as the livelihood project. The propagation and planting were assisted by several local officials and government agencies such as Department of Agriculture (DA) and Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) by giving a sum of 60, 000 seedlings.

According to Joey Astrero, tourism officer of Anao, apart from having three hectares of ylangylang plantation, the residents of the municipality typically pick and harvest flowers from their backyards, from the roads where their landholdings are bounded, in plazas, cemetery, and school compounds. These freshly-picked flowers are being sold to the Local Government Unit (LGU) for extraction. He said, as well, that it is the time when they were able to provide economic opportunities to its residents—through livelihood projects which similarly benefit its neighboring towns as it provide ecologically sound and holistic ecosystem.

The extracted ylang-ylang oil is the primary component to various products bearing the authorized brand name, Aroma Anao. Some

of these include ylang-ylang moisturizer, lavender and laundry soaps, shampoos, hand and body lotion, dried flowers, and the most liked products like the essential oil and colognes that come in four equal variants. These perfumes were formulated by combining the fragrance oil of ylang-ylang and other taste of scents.

As Astrero also testified, the profits from selling these products go to the LGU’s plans aiming to further help their residents and to enhance the revenue of every household by backing their manner of living.

The perfumes are justly wellknown in the vicinity and across countries. In fact, the agricultural town has been receiving inquiries abroad but the problem is that, they weren’t able to meet the high demand.

GROWING MAJOR COMPLICATIONS From the historical years, as mentioned by Astrero, there are fully grown trees that were struck because of a national project consequently reducing the possible flowers to be reaped. This project was the Tarlac-

the work | metanoia 67

Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX), a four-lane toll road with a length of 88.58-kilometer which starts from the southern terminal in Tarlac City and ends in the northern terminal of Rosario, La Union.

The road-widening project which is purposed to reduce travel time hits numerous towns including the 1.7 hectares of ylang-ylang mini-forest of Anao, wherein, 30 percent of about 10, 000 trees were wiped out.

What just happened was emphatically regarded as great deprived for the town. The enormous reduction of blooming trees with lots of possible flowers to be extracted could actually enable Anao to bump into the demand of other countries.

Unfortunately, they’re now in adversity replacing numerous trees by means of reproduction.

“Ang oil ay dito lang sa Pilipinas.

Sa ibang bansa kasi, hindi pa kayang supplyan ‘yong kailangan nila. Masyado kasing malaki ang demand and that is almost 250 liters per month, e hindi namin kayang i-produce ‘yong kailangan nila kasi halos hindi kami maka-one liter sa isang araw,” Astrero said.

Furthermore, there are times that only 10 to 15 kilos of flowers are being harvested and once in a while, the yielded oil does not reach one percent of the average yield of 15ml/kg. Aside from this, they are also lacking of workers with technical expertise and flower extractors, that is why the agricultural site before basically supplies essential oil to the manufacturers of their products outside of their municipality and they just return the finished products to them.

Other than these scarcities to sustain larger markets’ possible demand, the town also thinks of those outsiders who unceasingly sell flowers as garlands in their adjacent towns.

Now, is the town’s target still possible?

A STEP TOWARDS VISION The LGU, according to Astrero, has already purchased three groups of cooperatives that manufacture ylangylang secondary products which may constantly support the ylang-ylang projects; and yet they still lack of raw materials.

“Kailangan muna naming palawakin ‘yong pagtatanim. Kasi ‘yong mga makinarya naming, okay lang. Ang kulang lang talaga sa amin is ‘yong raw materials (ylang-ylang flowers),” he stated.

As a solution, he added that they were continuously working for propagation and reproduction of trees through a series of planting.

“Kailangan talaga namin iyon (magtanim) para may ma-harvest

68 the work | metanoia

kaming marami at para mas makilala pa ito sa buong mundo, kasi kung hindi kami magtatanim at palawakin ang industry ng ylang-ylang dito, paano kami makikilala?” he articulated.

As a matter of fact, there are many areas in the country that have and were planting ylang-ylang trees.

Nevertheless, they’re still the one who is extracting the flowers and that truly made the town the major exporter and producer of essential oil.

“May mga kumukuha na rin ng mga oil namin mula sa ibang bansa kaya lang pakonti-konti lang kasi hindi pa namin kaya ‘yong hiling nilang marami,” he added.

Astrero also expressed that there are already foreigners and experts, especially their Korean partners, who have studied Anao’s ylang-ylang oil and it’s proven that the oil in the Philippines, particularly in their town, have the most pleasant quality compared to other countries like Indonesia and Madagascar.

These studies are just manifestations that the world-class ylang-ylang fragrance truly captivated the communities’ smelling sense.

Though Astrero supposed that we still have to wait for many years to attain their vision, what’s important for everyone in the town is that, their nature-inspired perfumes and essential oils were progressively satisfying and sustaining the needs of local and international markets.

STRAIGHT FROM THE

FOURTH ESTATE

T

he Work strongly condemns the onslaught of campus press repression all over the country. With the implementation of the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, campus publications are now compromised in terms of their operations and right to free expression.

Amid the free tuition policy launched by the Duterte administration, many student publications now face the threat of probable defunding, wherein the administrations of various universities and colleges in the Philippines are found to be withholding the release of publication funds, thus halting their operations. This form of attack is suggestive of the crackdown against campus journalists and we believe that this is an obvious breach on the mandate of the state to uphold the welfare and interest of the campus press.

As we also dedicate our journalistic skills in amplifying the

unheard calls of the underprivileged, it is only unjust for the state forces to respond with threats. Firm as we are, speaking the truth and serving the masses, should never be treated as an enemy.

Moreover, The Work is firm in our call to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) to protect the rights of the campus press, in accordance with the provisions of the free tuition policy. The publication believes that the Commission should review its legal obligation to prevent the withholding of funds for student publications, as stipulated in the Campus Journalism Act of 1991.

The Work stands in solidarity with our fellow campus journalists in upholding our right to press freedom. Together, we will defend its genuine essence! At a time where state terror and fascism pose a threat to democratic expression, we must collectively rise against the intensified attacks on our rights and resist all forms of campus press repression. [Andrea S. Espinosa and Isaih Kyle C. Umipig]

STRAIGHT FROM THE FOURTH ESTATE is The Work’s free space for official statements and standpoints regarding the pressing issues ranging from the borders of the university to the community at large. For further discussions, send us an email at tsu.thework@gmail.com.

Photos from The Work archive and Jes Aznar/Time

the work | metanoia 69

VOL 70 NO 1 | AUGUST 2018

SSC bridges gap between Admin, irreg students

By Lander Victor Tejada FOR THE first time, the Supreme Student Council hosted a forum for the irregular students to extend their concerns regarding their academic standing to the administration and the college deans of Tarlac State University (TSU), July 10.

The forum, which was called “Irregular Day,” aimed to address the irregular students’ problem on back subjects which will no longer be offered once the last batch of the old curriculum graduates. The event transpired at TSU Gymnasium.

To represent the administration, Dr. Armee N. Rosel, vice president for Academic Affairs, along with all the college deans, attended the forum to address university and college-wide concerns.

The irregular students raised the question of whether their education will still be shouldered by the Free Tuition Law. Rosel confirmed that they can apply for free tuition, but only the regular subjects offered in their respective college and the miscellaneous fee will be shouldered. Requested subjects, therefore, will be paid in

STUDENTS’ INQUIRY. Dr. Armee N. Rosel took part in answering the questions and giving clarifications to the irregular students of the university.

(Photo by Arsenio S. Santiago Jr.)

full amount.

Following the question on subsidized education, the irregular students complained on the slow process of requesting subjects. Rosel explained that the process is supposed to be quick and she does not know why would it take too long.

She further enumerated the conditions and requirements to open a subject.

The question on the slow process which suggested incompetence backfired when

TSU students accelerate by 10,000

By Creisha S. Dimabayao FROM APPROXIMATELY 400 test-takers last year, the number of College Admission Test (CAT) takers increased to 11,000 for the academic year 2018-2019.

According to Dr. Rodrigo Sicat, director of University Counseling, Testing and Career Center, the probable reason behind this increase is the Free Tuition Law which is already in effect. The law provides free education and payment for miscellaneous fees to students from which almost 10,000 were takers who enrolled last April. | to p.72

70 the work | metanoia

A.Y. 2017-2018

400

TSU CAT-takers A.Y. 2018-2019

11,000 TSU CAT-takers Source: University Counseling, Testing and Career Center

Dr. Renato Mercado, dean of the College of Business and Accountancy, mentioned fake and impulsively aborted request to open subjects.

“Ang problema, ‘pag nagre-request, maraming nakapirma, pero ‘pag pasukan na, wala na. Dapat sana, maging makatotohanan tayo,” he said.

Another concern was the overloading of units which Engr.

Consolacion Lagman, director of the Office of Admission and Registration, resolved as she reiterated to the students that overloading is only allowed for graduating students on their “would-be” last semester.

On the other hand, she dismissed the demand from a student of the College of Education to amend and make the policy on Latin honors more flexible for shifters.

In the request, the student explained that he failed a major subject in his previous college because he was not academically suited for the program, and now, he has a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) in his current program that qualifies for a Latin honor.

“Ang mga policies na ‘to, nandyan ‘yan to be followed, hindi ‘yong ‘pag mayroon kayong gustong i-request, because of humanitarian reasons, babaliin natin ang mga rules,” Lagman said.

Meanwhile, students complained about the

incompetent faculty members whom the students accuse of giving questionable grades.

Mercado defended his college’s faculty saying that his faculty go sleepless computing for accurate and just numbers. He also said that the students should file a complaint and present evidence to support their claims.

Rosel seconded and asked the students to raise the concern so the process can take place. She guaranteed that complainants will not be disregarded.

Students from the College of Engineering and Technology (CET) complained as well of having their freedom to choose their course in their college taken away and being forced to either shift or go back to zero.

Dr. Miriam Galvez, CET dean, explained that there is no remedy for their situation as the new curriculum is directly behind them. There is no option of substituting subjects because there is no resemblance between the subjects in the new curriculum and the old curriculum.

After discussing a few minor issues, the irregular students were allowed to personally ask their college deans to address their issues within their college.

With the adjustments to be implemented to help the irregular students, it is expected that most of them will only have their graduation delayed by one semester at most.

VOL 70 NO 1 | AUGUST 2018

SDU honors outstanding org hall of famers

By Lorddan U. Faller THROUGH CONFERRING plaques of recognition, the Student Development Unit (SDU) commended the seven Hall of Famers of the outstanding university-based student organizations during this year’s Gabi ng Parangal, June 30.

The hall of famers for outstanding college-based organizations were The Generalists (College of Education), Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (College of Business and Accountancy), Student Society on Information and Technology Education (College of Computer Studies), Philippine Institute of Industrial Engineers – Operation Research Society of the Philippines (College of Engineering and Technology), and United Architects of the Philippines Student Auxiliary – TSU Chapter (College of Architecture and Fine Arts).

Likewise, Alpha Kappa Rho was acknowledged as a hall of famer for the outstanding fraternity/sorority while the Rotaract Club of TSU for the outstanding sociocivic student organization.

Daniel de Guzman, SDU staffer, said in an interview that it has been part of the unit to give recognition to all student organizations and leaders that had brought pride to the university.

“Incorporated din kasi ito doon sa CHED [Commission on Higher Education] memo regarding sa student affairs and services, at dapat lang naman [silang] bigyan ng recognition dahil katuwang rin naman sila ng TSU para lalo pang mapaunlad ‘yong kabuuang serbisyo ng university,” he further stated.

Meanwhile, Dexter Tabago, the outgoing president of JPIA, expressed that being part of the outstanding organization in CBA for five consecutive years was a fulfillment.

“Hindi lang ako, but all of the officers and advisers ng organization ay sobrang nasiyahan. Madaming struggle ang hinarap namin and talaga

University officials award a certificate and trophy to COESSE - The Psychological Society as the outstanding college-based organization of the College of Arts and Social Sciences. (Photo by Isaih Kyle Umipig)

namang priceless ‘yong naging result ng lahat ng efforts and sacrifices,” he added.

On the other hand, Allysa Aira Aquino, the outgoing president of

The Generalists, also voiced her gratitude in the appreciation that their organization had gained.

“Sobrang sarap sa feeling

na makita ‘yong bunga ng pagbibigay mo ng buong puso mo to serve and to lead,” she articulated.

Included also in the awards night that were recognized are the student frontrunners, winners, and delegates from local and international competitions and seminars, and graduate scholars with honors.

De Guzman concluded that he, as well as the SDU, is thankful for the full support and efforts of all the students, the Office of the Student Affairs, and the Vice President for Academic Affairs. This setup, he added, simply shows what really student service is all about.

CAFA alumna hits 2nd spot in architecture board

By Lorddan U. Faller THE COLLEGE of Architecture and Fine Arts has produced its first female top-notch architect after she placed second in the list of top examinees in the June 2018 Architecture Licensure Examination (ALE).

Ar. Fatima Joan Reyes, an architecture graduate of the Class 2016, initially took her compulsory apprenticeship for two years to be qualified in taking the board examination.

To focus on her preparation for the examination, she then quitted the job and enrolled full-time in a review center which started from March and concluded in June.

Reyes, in an interview, said that the setback she once had during the review is the “worry instinct” that was told to be inevitable to all board examinees.

“I’ve tried to combat it by allotting as much time as I can for review. I stopped comparing my knowledge from my co-reviewees and focused more on how I can help myself to be focused and ready for the exams,” she added.

The newly-registered architect also stated that she has been getting inspiration from

those professors who introduced and provided her the knowledge she needed. Her first mentor was Ar. Alvi Masanque who was also a topnotcher in the same examination, and Ar. Makoto and Feliza Furukawa from Quezon City who trained and guided her up until she decided to take the board.

Reyes already anticipated that she will be among the examinees who will garner the top 10 highest places and uttered that a combination of happiness and overwhelming emotions is what she felt after seeing the result.

“I worked and prayed hard for my dream to top the boards and because of this, I, too, expected that I will be able to make it among the top scorers,” she expressed.

Moreover, she advised the students who will also take the next examination to set a goal bigger than them and

work hard for it.

“No matter how unachievable a goal may seem, the collective day-to-day efforts that you’ve put into it will someday be added up to the big success that you’ve rehearsed, worked, and prayed for,” she ended.

Meanwhile, the top one in the ALE was from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines with an 84.10-percent rating, while Reyes got an 83.20 percent, few points ahead from the 83.10-percent rating of the rank three from the University of the Philippines Diliman.

Ar. Reyes during the oath taking ceremony of the newlyregistered architects.

(Photo from Reyes’ Facebook page)

the work | metanoia 71

VOL 70 NO 1 | AUGUST 2018

Mallari gets 2nd term as university president

By Isaih Kyle C. Umipig DR. MYRNA Q. Mallari was reappointed as the university president after expressing her intentions to the Board of Regents (BOR) during their last quarter meeting in 2017.

In a recent interview, Mallari stated that a fouryear tenure is not enough for any president who has the desire to play a role for the university’s betterment, both for its program offerings and its students.

“I believe I still can contribute to the development of our university. Four years is too short for a president who would like to do better things for the university,” she further explained.

Mallari hinted that a second term would enable them to continue what they have started in the past in terms of their programs and projects. These ongoing actions include the refurbishment of classrooms, the establishment of Center

Mallari

of Development and Center of Excellence among colleges, and the sustainability of quality assurance and infrastructure development.

She discussed, meanwhile, that the roadmap during the time she seated as the president in 2014 is a roadmap apportioned for 10 years. This decade-spanned development plan was created so that whoever seizes the post as the next president will have something to pick up from.

“Para nobody is dispensable so kahit na wala ako, may gagawa pa rin sa mga ginagawa natin,” she added.

As for the other posts, Mallari said that there are minor changes specifically with some designations. The positions of the three vice presidents of the university per se were shuffled.

Dr. Armee N. Rosel, former Vice President for Academic Affairs, took the Vice President for Research and Extension Service post.

Dr. Michaela Marvie P. Sagun is the new Vice President for Academic Affairs who was then the Vice President for Administration and Finance.

Meanwhile, Dr. Glenard T. Madriaga, from being the Vice President for Research and Extension Service, now serves as the new Vice President for Administration and Finance.

Meanwhile, Dr. Louella F. Ona will still serve as the Vice President for Institutional Linkages and External Affairs.

TSU VPs shift sectoral designation

By Andrea S. Espinosa THREE INCUMBENT vice presidents of Tarlac State University (TSU) took their oaths as they shifted to new office designations on July 17 at the TSU audio-visual room.

The new sectoral designations were issued through an administrative order on May 25, 2018, following a transition period from May 29 to July 15, 2018 to further prepare the three vice presidents, namely Dr. Glenard T. Madriaga, Dr. Armee N. Rosel, and Dr. Michaela Marvie P. Sagun, on the duties and responsibilities of their new delegated positions.

Meanwhile, in the administrative order, Dr.

72 the work | metanoia

Louella F. Ona is set to retain her post as the Vice President for Institutional Linkages and External Affairs.

Madriaga, who previously served as the Vice President for Research and Extension Service, is now appointed as Vice President for Administration and Finance.

Rosel, on the other hand, will now serve as the new Vice President for Research and Extension, following her post as the previous Vice President for Academic Affairs.

Lastly, former Vice President for Administration and Finance, Sagun, is allotted the position as the new Vice President for Academic Affairs.

In a statement, Sagun said that one of the goals of their new designation is to continue

the university’s mission to provide students with quality education.

“I can assure that we shall always be of assistance to the students on concerns that confront their stay here in TSU. We are also in partnership with the other VP offices in instilling discipline in the students not only in their study habits but also in their part in maintaining the facilities of the university,” she said.

She also elucidated the administration’s new objective to focus on the adjustments in the educational system.

“It is quite challenging because we are onto the start of the new curriculum at ngayon pa lang natin makikita kung ano pa ang mga dapat nating ma-improve.”

TSU students accelerate... from p.70 | The filing of application for CAT started on January 3 and ended on March 15. The examinations were held on January 21, February 4, February 18, March 4, and March 18.

Nevertheless, although the filing of application has already ended, many aspiring takers were still inquiring regarding the examination which urged the office to hold a special college admission test on May 4 and 8.

In line with the transition of curriculum from Basic Education Curriculum to K-12 Curriculum, the content of the examination was changed to maintain the reliability of the aptitude test.

The revision made the test shorter, timesaving, and capable of accommodating four batches in a day compared with the two batches per day in the previous years.

Sicat assured that even the test was shorter, the results will still be as reliable as the former one.

After conducting CAT, the University Counseling, Testing and Career Center is now preparing for the Freshmen Orientation in cooperation with the guidance counselors, college deans, and subSSCs of different colleges.

In an interview, Sicat added that aside from the orientation, their office is also planning to organize a seminar regarding study habits that can be acquired by the freshmen. The speakers on the planned seminar will come from the faculty staff of the colleges.

The seminar aims to give tips to freshmen on how to adjust in their new environment, as the culture in college is far different from high school.

VOL 70 NO 1 | AUGUST 2018

Kabataan Rep addresses state of youth, pressing issues

By Isaih Kyle C. Umipig and Andrea S. Espinosa

EMPOWERING THE YOUTH. College and high school students from different schools around Central Luzon attended the State of the Youth Address in Angeles City.

(Photo by Isaih Kyle C. Umipig)

CEGP president pushes Tarlac pens to ‘choose’

By Isaih Kyle C. Umipig COLLEGE EDITORS Guild of the Philippines (CEGP) national president Jose Mari Callueng urged studentjournalists of Tarlac province to choose to write as he gave a talk on the current disputed state of the press in the country, July 21.

A general assembly of CEGP-Tarlac Chapter is supposed to be held at the student center of the College of Engineering and Technology on the said date. However, due to heavy rainfall, most of the Tarlac-based student publications have cancelled their participation.

With the assembly being put off, a comprehensive discussion was convened instead where Callueng discussed the situation of the press in the Philippines.

The discussion included the killings and violations toward journalists through the years, the Campus Journalism Act of 1991, and the reiteration of the guild’s renowned tagline, “To write is already to choose.”

The attendees were also

given chance to ask questions regarding the pressing issues of campus journalism, about their publications’ membership, and the upcoming activities and movements of CEGP. Jhun Jhun Agustin, editor in chief of Tarlac Agricultural University – Golden Harvest, asked Callueng about their membership as he has mentioned that their publication has been dormant and unable to participate in the activities of the guild.

Callueng answered, meanwhile, that even though a publication was not able to attend CEGP’s seminars, assemblies, and others, their membership will not be revoked.

After the talk, Callueng also presented CEGP’s project regarding the celebration of its 87th year as the oldest, broadest, and the only-existing alliance of tertiary campus

This year’s Campus Press Freedom Week will be observed from July 2328 where various activities like campus press freedom exhibit, filing of campus press freedom violations complaint to the Commission on Higher Education, Writers’ Trip: covering the plight of the basic masses, cultural night with the masses, etc. will be held.

The attendees are from Tarlac State University, Tarlac Agricultural University, and Golden Olympus College.

publications in the AsiaPacific region.

KABATAAN PARTY-LIST Representative Sarah Jane I. Elago discussed the pressing issues of the country during the State of the Youth Address (SOYA) – Central Luzon at Chevalier School, Angeles City, Pampanga on July 20.

SOYA is an annual gathering of the youth sector which aims to provide situationers and educational discussions on relevant affairs. It was done days before President Rodrigo Duterte’s third State of the Nation Address (SONA).

Elago said that the biggest issue regarding the SONA is the probable Charter Change or more commonly known as “ChaCha.” She discussed that what’s inside the charter change is the presence of all-out liberalization or 100% foreign ownership of the country’s industry, lands and territories, and services.

“Kailangan natin iyong pagbantayan dahil sa matagal na panahon, talagang tinututulan din [ito] ng mamamayang Pilipino,” she furthered, “Naninindigan tayo na ang yaman ng Pilipinas at ang mga meron tayo na natural resources ay dapat na mapakinabangan ng bawat Pilipino.”

As the sole youth party-list in the Philippine Congress, Elago is one with the fight for free tertiary education.

“I’d like to congratulate all iskolars ng bayan and the young people who contributed to our fight for free public education at all levels,” she expressed.

For Elago, the goal of the youth is not just to make public tertiary education free and accessible to all but also to | to p.77

CEGP President Jose Mari Callueng (Photo by Isaih Kyle C. Umipig)

the work | metanoia 73

Approval rating of the Supreme Student Council

Data gathered by Isaih Kyle Umipig | Graphics by Joseph Carlo Pineda

Academic Year 2018 - 2019 • SSC President: Reynamy C. Doria

SURVEY

SSC signs off with 2.50 grade

By Isaih Kyle C. Umipig REYNAMY C. DORIA, Supreme Student Council (SSC) president of the previous academic year, together with her council, received a general point average of 2.545 for their performance in a hybrid of an online and man-to-man survey.

A sample size of 126 students of Tarlac State University (TSU) expressed their satisfaction as well as discontent to the exiting council.

“I observe a lot of positive changes not just to the students but also [to] the staffs and employees of the university,” Zepaniah Lacsina, AB Communication student, explained why she gave a 1.50 rating.

74 the work | metanoia

The Work tried to get Doria’s statements regarding the students’ feedbacks but the initial received no response.

John Ralph Aaron Dungca, vice president of the council, however, took responsibility to answer The Work’s questions.

“Nakakataba ng puso na marami palang mga estudyante ang nakaramdam ng serbisyo at proyekto ng konseho para sa kanila. Do’n naman sa mga mababa lang [ang rating], hindi naman natin maiiwasan ‘yon. Maybe what we can learn from that is to widen the scope of the project,” he expressed.

While some students have commended the governance of the previous council, some have also shown discontent towards their actions – “Hindi naramdaman,” as what respondents describe it.

Some of the interviewees

stated that there are projects which were not well-sustained and inconsistent like the Project Pawi, a project of the council which aims to provide free water to all the colleges.

“Na-accomplish naman [nila] ‘yong mga activities pero parang may kulang pa rin,” Adrian A. Dizon, BSED-Social Studies student, reasoned out.

On the other hand, Dungca defended the council. “Hindi kami perpekto, alam namin iyon sa sarili namin. We can only help to the extent that we can, but I assure you that we did our best”.

He agreed, moreover, that they have projects which are not successful but he said that these drawbacks are where learnings can be effectively picked up from.

There are also respondents who compared their term

to the previous student councils but for Dungca, being compared is very intimidating but is just normal.

“In every change naman talaga, may comparison na nangyayari, even sa presidents natin. So, natural lang. We just got to keep doing our job,” he added.

As the new council has taken their seats, Dungca directs his hopes on the newlyelected SSC officers. He gave them guides to just do what they got to do; to turn their promises into real actions. He also reminded them to be there when the students need them.

“Basta when in doubt, isipin niyo who put you in that position—the students. Isipin niyo lang sila palagi with everything that you do and everything else will fall into the right places,” Dungca emphasized.

VOL 70 NO 1 | AUGUST 2018

Chorale wins gold in Taipei choir competition

GRAND, GLORIOUS. Tarlac State Unviersity Chorale flaunts winning smilles after their performance in the 1st Taipei International Choral Competition. (Photo by Pauline Grace B. Manzano)

By Pauline Manzano TARLAC STATE University Chorale (TSUC) once again proved their prowess as they bagged gold prizes in the 1st Taipei International Choral Competition (TICC), July 31 to August 3.

TSUC initially competed in Youth Choir and Musica Sacra

categories, where they were hailed the champion and third gold prize winner, respectively.

After which, the musical group ended up as a qualifier in the Grand Prix level where they vied with other eight Chinese choirs.

“Actually, sa murang edad namin, never talaga kaming nag-expect na manalo sa mga

competition, lalo na international pa,” Joshua Ysmael Fontanilla, the chorale conductor, stated.

Moreover, he said that it was a challenge and a fulfilment to win since they were one of the chorale groups who have the least number of members performing in the stage and also considering that they have experienced difficulty in

TSU broadens networks in Asia Summer Program

By Isaih Kyle C. Umipig STUDENTS OF Tarlac State University (TSU) took part in expanding the scope of the university’s networks in this year’s Asia Summer Program (ASP) at Dongseo University in Busan, South Korea, July 9-27.

Different universities across the continent like Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam joined the three-week international summer program.

The program allowed the participating students to select two courses like Psychology, Human Rights and Peace Education, Applied Theater, and other courses they want to take—a course in the morning and another for the afternoon.

Each course is worth two academic credits that may be covered in the students’ transcript of records at their home university.

According to Cris Allan Agustin, a delegate from the College of Education, the activities provided in their courses in the summer program are very beneficial for him as a student leader as he may adapt and conduct those in TSU. He said, moreover, that the most important benefit a delegate could acquire from the program is the relationship between the different universities.

“Yong na-build na international camaraderie ng mga universities kasi ‘yong connection, nandoon na. Pwede kaming magtulungan,” he expressed.

Meanwhile, Jerich Ralph Lobo, a delegate from the College of Public Administration and Governance, said that he learned relevant points on cultural understanding and diversity from the firsthand experiences taught by his professors.

“It has been beneficial to me because my perspective became

wider and more macro than ever. I now understand more the importance of globalization associated with the respect of cultural diversities,” Lobo added.

The delegates from TSU are Kiara Valencia (College of Business and Accountancy), Jenelle Tayag (College of

their rehearsals because of the midyear vacation.

“Sobrang hirap manalo sa choral singing [competition].

Lalo na, hindi naman kami ganoon kakilala ng ibang tao dahil masyado kaming bata at ako pa ang pinakabatang conductor. Pero binibigay namin ang best namin kasi may goal kami,” Fontanilla expressed.

He further assured that they will continue their training for future competitions, both in the local and international scene, to bring pride not only to TSU but to the whole country as well.

Meanwhile, the event was adjudicated by artists from different countries around the world.

Dirk Duhei, artistic director of TICC, addressed in a message that the contest does not only offer opportunities to showcase the best choirs in the world, but also to provide infinite ways to promote diverse repertoire from different countries, to elevate workmanship for singers and conductors, and to encourage cultural exchange among people.

Computer Studies), Zyrene Tamayo and Pauline Angela Martinez (College of Architecture and Fine Arts), and Alona Buena (College of Arts and Social Sciences). They were accompanied by University President Dr. Myrna Q. Mallari, Dr. Lolita V. Sicat, and Dr. Enrico Tañedo.

The event aimed to foster future leaders who have a strong understanding of Asian cultures, a broad and creative mindset, and a talent for international collaboration.

Premier delegates from Tarlac State University attended the three--week Asia Summer Program in South Korea. (Photo from Agustin’s Facebook account)

the work | metanoia 75

VOL 70 NO 1 | AUGUST 2018

Mallari confirms no req’ts for free tuition

By Jejomar B. Contawe IN ACCORDANCE with the Universal Access to Quality Tertiary Education Act, Tarlac State University President Dr. Myrna Mallari asserted that there are no more requirements for the tagging of free tuition among the students enrolled in the university.

Effective for the academic year 2018-2019, Mallari stated that the students would now be automatically tagged for the free tuition program during the enrollment, and are no longer mandated to secure supporting documents like the application form, certificate of indigency, and BIR certification which were the primary requirements last year to avail the government’s subsidy.

However, she clarified that back subjects of the students will not be covered under the free tuition law. If a student

had previously flunked a subject, he would have to pay for it for the retake, without being removed from the list of students qualified for the subsidy.

The implementing rules and regulations (IRR) issued by the Commission on Higher Education also indicated that incoming freshmen who failed to comply with the retention and admission policies of their chosen university cannot avail the free tuition. Likewise, students who already own a bachelor’s degree or any comparable degree are not eligible for the subsidy.

Graduates of the Alternative Learning System or ALS are eligible to enter college with the free tuition program.

Moreover, financially-able students can also opt out of the free tuition provision and pay on their own, or they can still be tagged from the

Students get the requirements during the first year of implementation of the Free Tuition Law.

(Photo from The Work archive)

subsidy and then lend monetary contributions to the university.

Meanwhile, some students reacted on the overall impact of the free tuition program of the government.

“Mas naka-save ng pera kasi ang laki sana nung babayaran naming tuition pero wala na.

‘Yong ipambabayad sana sa tuition, nagamit na lang para sa rent ng dorm and for daily allowance,” Anne Marie Abril, BS Accountancy freshman,

asserted.

Valentin David, a third-year Communication student, also approved of the government’s full-tuition subsidy. “Maganda ang naitulong nito lalo na sa mga estudyanteng ang laging sinasabi na ‘pag tapos na sila ng high school ay hanggang doon na lang sila. Pero nang dahil sa free tuition law, mas na-encourage sila na mag-aral at subukan ang bagong hamon bilang isang magaaral sa kolehiyo.”

259 graduates free from commencement charges FRESH CROPS. A total of 259 graduates of Tarlac State University received financial aid for their graduation fees.

(Photo by Isaih Kyle C. Umipig)

By Lorddan U. Faller ON ACCOUNT of his scholarship program in the university, the Congressman of the third district of Tarlac made the 259 graduate beneficiaries free from graduation expenses ranging from 4,700 to 5,400 peso charges.

Hon. Noel L. Villanueva, the financial donor, is presently serving in the municipalities of Bamban,

76 the work | metanoia

Capas, La Paz and, Concepcion. His program based in the university had been aiding the students for three consecutive years particularly those from the stated towns.

According to Dr. Elsie Canlas, Scholarship Unit director, every semester, there are 1,000 fixed number of scholars who were receiving P6,000 or P12,000 per academic year.

Moreover, only in the previous semester when

they had remaining funds that enable them to carry on the graduation fees of their grantees.

“This year, parang nadoble or parang dinoble niya [Villanueva] ‘yong binigay, kaya we decided, para lang ma-utilize ‘yong remaining amount, ico-cover ‘yong cost nung graduation fees of all beneficiaries,” she stressed.

The decision, she added, was agreed upon during the visit of the two staffers of the Congressman.

“Kung hindi mako-consume ‘yon [remaining funds] until December at hindi naayos nang mabuti, pwedeng marevert ‘yong fund at babalik sa kanila,” Canlas further described.

The scholarship is continuing, and since there are incoming freshmen, the office supposed that there will be a major increase in the number of beneficiaries which is estimated to be 1,700.

Hence, during the meeting

with the university’s Budget Office, one of the staffers was informed that the average amount that is handed over the grantees may not be the same to the amount that will be given away in the following bestowment of financial aid.

“Ang pagkakasunduan namin para mapagbigyan ang lahat, hindi na 6,000, baka maging 2,500 na lang. Pero dati 1,000, ngayon magiincrease pa siya para everybody will be given a chance to get this financial assistance,” Canlas articulated.

Meanwhile, during the graduation day, Villanueva was given a Plaque of Merit from the Office of the President.

Canlas said that Villanueva’s message to all graduates contains the purposes of his program: to improve the quality education and uplift the standard way of living of his fellow citizens particularly in his term.

VOL 70 NO 1 | AUGUST 2018

Kabataan Rep addresses... uphold the quality of the state universities and colleges (SUCs) which is why, right now, the struggle for genuine free education remains.

She also cited the current maneuvers on free education which the youth should be aware of: first, the abolishment of its downsides such as the delay of implementation and continuous collection from the students; second, she said that the new law is being used to defund campus publications and student councils; and third, the inclusion of return service.

“Hindi sa pinagdadamot natin ‘yong serbisyo ng mga estudyante ngunit inaagaw niya kasi ‘yong victory ng free education sa esensya dahil ang libreng edukasyon, wala dapat kapalit dahil ito ay obligasyon ng estado,” Elago said.

Also, she emphasized on the importance of fora, debates, and educational talks like SOYA as groundworks for the youth especially those residing in the provinces to be aware of the relevant issues around them.

“Mahalaga na magbukas ng mga espasyo para magtalakay ng iba’t ibang isyu kasi hindi natin maeexpect ‘yong ating mga kapwa iskolar ng bayan na kumilos doon sa mga issues na hindi naman nila alam,” she stated.

Elago expressed her gratitude to the delegates from Central Luzon region who took part in SOYA. She presses the awareness of the youth on relevant issues but as she added, it does not stop with awareness alone; that the youth needs to organize and make actions for change because it will not only benefit the current generation but also the next one.

“Sama-sama nating isulong ang bagong pulitika ng pag-asa, pagkilos, at ng pagbabago,” she advocated.

Photo from ABS-CBN News

from p.73 |

DU30 kiss draws flak among TSUians -survey

By Isaih Kyle C. Umipig & Jejomar B. Contawe IN A The Work survey, 10 out of 10 students of Tarlac State University expressed their denunciation towards President Rodrigo Duterte’s controversial act of kissing a married Filipina during a state visit in South Korea, June 3.

With a sample size of 200, students condemned the “twisted” act of the President where he kissed a married woman on the lips in front of millions of spectators. He did it in front of the Presidential seal, the Philippine flag, while the Presidential Security Guards were everywhere.

Most of the answers of the students interviewed share a common denominator. Some said that the act is not acceptable in the Filipino culture. Others, meanwhile, said that it is very inappropriate because it is contrary to the expected behavior of a country’s leader.

“Hindi magandang ehemplo bilang isang

Presidente lalo na sa mga makakakita. Isa pa, may asawa’t anak na siya,” Cheradene Nicdao, a Psychology student, justified.

While most of the answers show disapproval, some elaborated their answers by backing Duterte’s side and citing possible reasons.

“He is our President but he’s human. He is a man,” an

10 out of 10

students denounce Duterte’s kissing act in South Korea Education student reasoned out. He discussed that the act was inappropriate but it should not be taken as a huge issue compared to other issues. He said that the country has a lot of problems that need to be addressed right away, and that the President made a mistake where people are free to give reactions and comments.

However, as he went back to the question if the act was acceptable or not, he strongly agreed that in every side of the issue, what the President did is plainly wrong.

The Work also sought the side of Dr. Rita Pulmano, director of the Center for Gender and Development (CGAD), where she stated that neither Duterte nor the woman were to be held in contempt, but only the “unbecoming” act itself.

“Hindi natin ‘yon kultura.

When we see each other, hindi naman tayo pala-kiss e. Shake hands will do,” she added.

The CGAD Office, moreover, is purposed to address the issues of the society specifically inequalities.

While the office is promoting gender equality and women empowerment, the value of respect was never taken with the least consideration.

“Meron tayong nakikitang inequalities between men and women but as we promote equality and empowerment, the bottom line is respect—to promote respect,” Pulmano said.

Data gathered by Isaih Kyle C. Umipig and Christian Q. Dela Pena

the work | metanoia 77

sports EDITORIAL ON CAMPUS:

Delaying tactics

R

Cartoon by Nikkie Joy Pacifico

einforcement of potential athletes and a good training program are basic steps in molding a good team. It is the building block of a good recruitment system where potentials are trained and fueled to be seasoned players soon who are ready to represent the university.

University athletes receive scholarships and other benefits as an incentive for their efforts in giving honor to the university. They are also given consideration when it comes to their academic standing—a way to hold them back from losing interest. Apart from getting much attention during the Intramurals with their exemplary performance, university athletes also get exposure and a chance to represent the university outside the province and the region with all expenses paid.

It really is overwhelming to receive such recognitions after successfully representing the university regionally and nationally. This brings the notion and feeling of being an “instant celebrity” after bringing home the bacon.

However, at times, this is used as an excuse to miss the academic loads that a student-athlete must consider first.

Rigid trainings and non-stop tune up games bombarded with academic loads are a real struggle for all student-athletes especially for those who strictly follow the training program established by the administration. It takes physical and mental toughness to surpass the external and inward battle set by the institution and the coaches.

Student-athletes, especially the key players, have the tendency to extend their years in college because of their love for sports. Some are having a hard time balancing a consistent rigid training and their academic loads, causing them to fail their subjects. While others intentionally leave their subjects behind to have more years participating in competitions like the SUC-III Olympics.

The delaying tactics of prolonging the eligibility of an athlete to join such competitions have been a dirty sports culture for some athletes and coaches in the university. What makes it more alarming is that it has become a tradition, a normal scene, wherein athletes prefer to delay their education to play for the university.

This fallacy does not end from students who are partially blinded from the fame that they have; it continues to the coaches who keep their ace players despite their academic issues and deficits that should be fixed first. There are also instances where they have to rectify an athlete’s grade only to keep him/ her eligible to participate in sports competitions. It is dismaying that the ones who are supposed to educate the athletes are the ones who make a way to let such unethical act happen.

Doing so negates the very purpose why athletes are being trained. They must be trained not only physically but holistically. Coaches have to inculcate the value of discipline, self-worth, and importance of a dream in every studentathlete they handle, instead of tolerating them to miss the main purpose of their existence in the university—to build their future with the academic program the university offers.

If coaches will keep on making adjustments just to enable the athletes to participate in competitions, the university might end up losing them on the process. Worse is that they may neglect the value of education because of having much confidence with their abilities and believing that their being an athlete makes them automatically pass a subject. The worst that may happen is to witness the passion for education of these students dies.

The reason why they are called “student-athletes” and not “athlete-students” is because they should act as students first before becoming an athlete.

They have to prioritize the requirements of being students before fulfilling their duties as athletes. Thus, it is very clear that their being athletes should not be at the expense of their academic performance. Their focus on their studies should be of greater significance than their passion for sports, if not the same.

Student-athletes have to instill in mind that the physical strength fades as time goes by, but the knowledge they will gain from the academe will never be gone.

SPORTS NEWS

Dr. Ligaya Salangsang receives the trophy of TSU Firefox after grabbing the third runner-up rank during the last year’s games. (Photo from

The Work archives)

TSU as host for upcoming SUCO-III ‘18…

Salangsang: Turn pressure into power

By Jejomar B. Contawe “THE PRESSURE is on.”

Dr. Ligaya Salangsang, head of the Sports Development and Management Unit (SDMU), emphasized this during the first general assembly of the athletes, trainers, and varsity coaches regarding the upcoming State Universities and Colleges Olympics III (SUCO-III) 2018 where Tarlac State University (TSU) stands tall with both pressure and privilege as this year’s hosting school.

Aiming to bring forth pride and glory not just to the university but to the entirety of Tarlac community, Salangsang addressed the Firefox players to strive for the perrennially coveted championship title.

“Pride and honor po ng TSU ang dadalhin natin at ang pressure nasa atin.

So gawin po natin ‘tong kalakasan at challenge na ma-satisfy ang buong Tarlac community,” Salangsang said.

Degree of preparedness In line with this, Salangsang rated SDMU’s degree of preparedness for the upcoming big event, on a scale of 1 to 10, 8 to 9.

“Kaya naman. Normal na feeling lang.

Mabigat. Magnenerbiyos ka, magwoworry kasi gusto mo perfect lahat,” she stated, where she disclosed all the committees that she prepared for all the accommodations needed to make the event successful and inconvenience-free.

Team compositions Preparations for the upcoming regional Olympics also include the team compositions of the athletes upon which not all of them will be given the chance to compete.

Previous national SCUAA players and other athletes who were deemed likely to contribute medals for TSU are prioritized, whereas the other teams and individual athletes, especially new recruits, will be classified and will undergo rigid trainings and tune up games for the determination as to who will make it to the cut and have the chance to represent the university in the upcoming SUCO-III. Moreover, Salangsang stated that it is not necessary to maximize the number of athletes per team, most especially because of the pointing system where gold medals are to be counted first to determine the overall standings, with the silver and bronze hauls secondary. She elucidated that this will not adversely affect TSU’s fighting chance for the gold medal tally haul, recalling last year where Bulacan Agricultural State College was only four golds short to thwart TSU of its fourth spot finish regardless of the former’s shortage in their athletes.

Accommodations The opening program of the upcoming event will be held at the Tarlac Recreational Park (TRP). The following day comes the Mayor’s and Governor’s Night to entertain and accommodate the delegates from 12 other universities for a dinner party.

Salangsang also wrote a letter addressing the City Mayor for the elementary schools where the participants and delegates are to lodge for one week, while Hon. Susan Yap, governor of Tarlac province, will deliver a speech to officially welcome the delegates.

Various venues for the games are fixed to be held at TRP for Swimming, Baseball, Softball, Football, and Athletics; Table Tennis at any indoor locations; Boxing at Plazuela; while for the other events like Lawn Tennis, and combative sports are still under the process of deliberation.

The Central Luzon-wide Olympics will culminate at the TSU Gymnasium for the awarding and closing ceremony.

‘Not forever an athlete’ Meanwhile, the academic performances of the players are also raised as a major concern for their qualification or otherwise disqualification, taking a TSUian national SCUAA player as an example where the latter flunked all his subjects.

The player then contributed four golds, and was said to be confident that his grades will not be affected because he is, after all, an athlete.

“Study first; you are not forever an athlete,” Salangsang noted, saying that neither their professors nor coaches and trainers are to be put the point of blame for their academic standing. “Do your part as a student,” one coach said.

SUCO-III 2018 is expected to be held at TSU on December 9 to 15.

the work | metanoia 79

SPORTS NEWS

No such thing as too well-oiled; TSU prepares Firefoxes for homecourt brawl

By Lander Victor G. Tejada As this year’s State Universities and Colleges III Olympics (SUCO-III) host, Tarlac State University (TSU) extended its full support despite delayed budget to strengthen the ranks of the Firefoxes to secure the championship in December.

With the pedestal on their eyes, the university’s athletes began training early in the month of June and will floor the pedal through early December.

To keep track of the student athletes’ progress and performance, the Sports Development and Management Unit (SDMU) implemented strict policies.

SDMU uses biometrics to check the athletes’ attendance on trainings set by the office. Regarding the athletes’ performance, the trainers regularly report to the office and recommend changes in rosters.

The office also monitors the athletes’ academic performance.

The athletes must maintain a general point average (GPA) not lower than 2.50 with no failing grade or unremoved “incomplete grade.”

Failure to attend regular trainings will forfeit the monthly allowance of the infringing athlete. If, in the opinion of the trainer or the office, the athlete is not performing well or there is a considerable decline in his or her performance, the athlete will be removed in the official roster and will have to climb his way back.

“We will focus first on the athletes’ endurance and skill,” Dr. Ligaya Salangsang, director of SDMU, said in an interview regarding the structure of the trainings.

When the trainers become satisfied on the endurance and the skills of the

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athletes, techniques, strategies and game plans will be the next boxes to tick.

According to Salangsang, SDMU allows the athletes to schedule their tune-up games and choose opponents of higher tier. She also added that the athletes will not be engaged in games against teams of lower caliber to avoid one-way tune-up.

The subsidy requested by the SDMU from the government did not make it in time to fund the preparation of the athletes for the upcoming SUCO-III. To fill up the anticipated deficit, the administration of TSU looked for spendable money to support SDMU’s treasury for two months.

“Thankful kami kahit wala pa ‘yong pera namin. Pinaghanap nila ako ng budget ng two months para sa trainings at allowances. Doon pa lang, mai-inspire ka na. Iniisip nila ‘yong welfare ng estudyante lalo na ng mga atleta,” Salangsang said.

As this year’s SUCOIII host, the pressure is strangling the Firefoxes.

But with the support of the administration and the determination of the SDMU, they will surely hold and triumph.

Photos from last year’s SUC III Olympics held at Bulacan State University

OF

Intramural musings SPORTSMANSHIP: The annual Intramurals is being conducted to celebrate the athleticism of the student athletes. The trophies, medal, and other incentives are only secondary to the experience and companionship that the athletes can make out of the friendly competitions.

W

hy is the annual Intramurals big deal to TSUians?

eagerness to bring home the bacon for the college they represent.

Until now, I still wonder why on earth do the students of Tarlac State University, or students of any other universities for that matter, do get excited of the advent of the Intramurals. When in truth, only a few of the whole student body are athletes.

Moreover, the dialogues and discourses are heated when it comes to guessing which college or department will be hailed as the overall victors.

In line with this, I can’t help but ask myself: “Aside from the trophies and medals, is there a monetary compensation for the overall champions?”

So I wondered: “Aside from the trophies and medals, is there a monetary compensation for the overall champions?”

What about you, what are your thoughts about the annual Intramurals?

OF SPILLED INK AND RANDOM THOUGHTS creisha mae s. dimabayao associate managing editor bsba business economics

“

The determination as to which department accumulated the most number of golds is only secondary.”

Athletes and players themselves do have their fair share of skl’s that they can brag about, namely their experiences, funny moments, and lessons that they could impart to other students.

In addition to that are their success stories that could inspire their fellow athletes. But to think of it in a wider aspect, there is, in fact, a miniscule number of students in the total population of the university who actually play during such sporting events. But in spite of this, non-athletic players do have a lot of say and stories that they are enthusiastic to impart.

“Nagpass ako ng sampung plastic bottles sa CSC namin para may ticket ako sa opening.”

“Nanood ako ng [insert game] kasi may attendance kami dun, may plus daw sa next quiz.”

But if truth be told, one of the elements that adds up flavor and spice to the intramurals is its opening. Aside from its indication of the event’s commencement, the cacophony of bottles containing marbles utilized to create noises and cheers are hardly ever absent, complemented with the spectators’ cheers and their versions of roars against other competing colleges that only adds up to the level of intensity of the games and the event itself.

But sometimes the conspicuous tension do not stop even after the event had culminated.

At times, stereotyping happens among students.

They based the likeliness of victory among the athletes by the looks of the uniform they wear, its color, and the college they belong to – some say that these are because of the jokes and jests they deem offensive during the opening of the intramurals that has no connection with the capabilities of the athletes from the different departments. These even get to the point where it becomes personal. It all happens because of an

Oftentimes, it can be noticed that when the competitions get frenzied, there are times that we tend to forget the very essence as to why events like the annual sportsfest are orchestrated in the first place. These are to give opportunities for student athletes to showcase their athletic prowess, to hone their talents and skills in various sports, and also for their individual character to be shaped by the camaraderie that can be put up among their fellow student athletes. They should be primarily motivated for the experiences and lessons they could acquire and not for the medals and incentives they will receive. Victories are being regarded highly – which is not inappropriate. But of course, the athletes and participants also ought to give importance to the lessons that they can acquire from the entire experience. Win or lose.

Despite this, I still strongly believe that the unity, cooperation, and companionship would prevail among the athletes during such an event that celebrates their athleticism. It is also where the determination of every competitor would be put to the test. Until when is he able to fight for victory and not throw in the towel? It is also where the support of their classmates, friends and even professors are to be savored by them. After all, with all the sacrifices they made just to clinch a medal for their department, they deserve all the support and patronage that the whole university could offer.

So, whether they have brought trophy or any incentives for their college or not, win or lose, one of the most important thing is that they have fought and tried all their best to win, and with all fairness.

All things considered, the determination as to which department accumulated the most number of golds is only secondary. After all these years, “We are one TSU.” In the end, these nine Firefox teams will become allies for the upcoming Regional and National SCUAA Olympics. Let us not be forgetful of the fact that the orchestration of the annual intramurals is a preparation for future competitions outside the university premises.

I am hoping that the next time that the host utter the word “camaraderie” in the opening of the intramurals, I would not only hear it from my right ear and then out of my left ear. I would feel it, and I hope we all do.

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BREAK SCENE CULTURE: With the increasing number of fans and viewers around the world, the sports limelight finds a way to spark a bigger scene, often leading to battle of opposing sides.

F

ilipinos can never be outdated of the events happening in the world of sports—from the scores, players’ statistics, best player of the game, and even with the small details that made the game even more exciting.

Sports, undeniably, had greatly influenced the lives of the Filipinos’ day-to-day lives.

There are seven major sports in the Philippines: badminton, boxing, football, billiards, tennis, badminton, and the basketball.

The love for sports and recreation can be seen through the fans who die-hardly watch and support their teams during games.

In fact, almost every place in the country has basketball courts near their barangay halls, with players skin-to-skin battling over the handling of the ball. The camaraderie established during the games have created a strong sense that people can work together to work for something greater. This form of entertainment seems to unite every Filipino in every part of the world; actually, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) make time after hours of work just to play with our “kababayans.”

Our view with sports has become more than a recreational activity—but a part of living. The support for teams has been widely established that the sense of belongingness can greatly be uplifted in every victory imposed through the league. With fans clubs established nowadays, making a band of people from different localities aiming to support the team through thick and thin, it is true that rivalry is present.

However, in turn, with the rivalries of the teams come the rivalries of the altering perspective of groups on who is greater and who is fit to be the victorious. It divides the people in differences of opinion and choice, thus making it more complex to be on the same track of discourse. There are instances where the aim of sports to unite people rifts outside.

Over the past few years, with the establishment of the internet and technology, information had been a one-click-away access, keeping an eye over the smallest detail of the game up to the scores. Sports news can be easily accessed but neglected as we turn down into the greater battle of social media posts.

The battle becomes a misaligned discourse on who should be the one commenting about the game. Is it the avid supporter or the

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bandwagon supporter? The gap drastically lines up over intense arguments wherein the media will suddenly be an outruled mob of supporters versus supporters. The assertion of who should be commenting triggers an absurd reasoning but makes people mindful of their comments. If someone would still be asserting that he or she has the right to be the one to comment about the game because he or she has seen the progress of the team and the game, then it is still not a strong basis to terminate someone’s right to express his view on the game. If someone is wrong, we can just assert that the comment is far from the facts established.

Almost every game in the field of sports draws attention in the eyes of the spectators aiming for their supporting people to win.

Remember that there are games in the basketball scene that make people crazy over the good shots in the ring, every score of the game that makes them shout loud as if they are with the team, rush of emotions, wild and free. However, when a team loses against the other team, expect that there will always be a comment on every action done. That is how a game impacts on people’s lives and there’s nothing wrong with that as everyone is entitled with their own opinion.

Now, social media has become a battlefield of fans even though there is nothing to fight about, as everyone can choose the side that they want freely. Not everyone is literally into the aspect of choosing a side. If one asserts loyalty over a team, then so be it. There should be respect. Know that even the players choose the side that they want, so slice up the ‘loyalty thing’ in here. The battle for loyalty should end up here.

No one can ever really extinguish the spreading impact of the game into the lives of people, whether he is a die-hard fan or an “on-off” kind of supporter. It is the game’s influence to entertain people. A no-comment game means more than a lame one.

Everyone is clearly entitled with his or her own opinions but every opinion should be critically thought about—support with facts. In a world full of critical issues, sports critically lightens the mood. Every score in the hoop or score with the opponent’s mount increases the urge of the people to be better with their supported team. There should not be a gap lying between supporters; sports binds people out of their inner self towards an aim to be victorious in the game of life.

between the battling odds albritch adam a. labiano correspondent bs mechanical engineering

“

It lies with the common misconception that power goes with where the masses go.”

By Arsenio S. Santiago Jr. Photos by Pauline Grace B. Manzano

H

ardwork hones talent that will bring an athlete to accolades and attention. This will bring the kind of success that opens doors to extend the potential beyond home courts.

Tarlac’s promising senior high school middle blockers Sandra Sacramento and Trisha Gayle Tubu are now taking their talents in Adamson High School after joining the revamped Baby Falcons training program under Coach Onyok Getigan. They are now part of the team for the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 81 as they signified their commitment to Coach Air Padda and Adamson Lady Falcon’s team manager Russell Balbacal.

Long-time high school rivals Sacramento and Tubu fell short after losing their championship match against Bataan in the recently held Central Luzon Regional Athletic Association (CLRAA) Meet 2018 and only able to salvage a first runner-up finish but were still absorbed to represent Region 3 after playing as guest players for the Central Luzon champions, Bataan, in Palarong Pambansa 2018 held in Vigan.

Sacramento and Tubu, together with their team, carved history after Tarlac’s first championship appearance in the history of the tournament and brought the province’s first silver medal in Secondary Women’s Volleyball in CLRAA. Both lefty spikers used to play against each other since high school but are now preparing for their take off to soar to a bigger arena. Aside from their innate firepower, Sacramento and Tubu made themselves peculiar among the players in the Palaro; playing as lefty scoring middle attackers and staged an impenetrable defense that’s why aside from Adamson, volleyball powerhouses like Della Salle University, University of Sto. Tomas and other universities also eyed the two mid defenders to join their training programs.

They are now earning much attention not only in the province but also in the whole Adamson volleyball community as two of the standout trainees because of the strength they possess during trainings, adding new spice to the team to bring up glory to the Lady Falcons.

Trisha Gayle Tubu 18 years old Sandra Sacramento 18 years old

“We welcome both Gayle and Sandra to Adamson.

Tthey will be part not just of the present but also of the bright future we are building at Adamson,” Coach Balbacal said.

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Sandra Sacramento

From the town of home grown heroes, this Benigno S. Aquino National High School (BSANHS) product has arrived in her perfect timing to bloom after her four years of playing as a recruit in different schools in the province in regional competitions. This Concepcion native lefty middle attacker is bringing her humble beginnings to a wilder court; following the steps of the UAAP volleyball stars, Bea De Leon and Majoy Baron, who both came from the same town.

DO YOU STILL REMEMBER YOUR FIRST COACH?

From backup to star front liner, this 5’10” Tarlac National High School (TNHS) product proved all the doubts wrong as she became the first female Palarong Pambansa qualifier in the history of TNHS Women’s Volleyball history.

Sandra started her volleyball career as an absorbed athlete playing with other school until she was able to make her own name in the court and was able to bring her own team to championship.

WHEN DID YOU START PLAYING VOLLEYBALL? “Badminton talaga ako no’ng elementary tapos athletics then pagpasok ng Grade 7, nag-volleyball na ‘ko. Gusto kasi ni papa mag-volleyball ako kasi sayang height ko kaya sinubukan ko lang.

5’6” ako nun. Pinagkamalan pa nga akong over aged kasi sa height ko tapos ‘yon, may nakakita sakin then ni-recruit ako for school intramurals.”

WHAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED? “Noong una wala talaga sa isip ko ‘yong magvolleyball hanggang sa syempre nalaman ko na pwede akong maging scholar ng mga kilalang university kaya eto na, tsaka may mga half siblings din kasi ako and gusto ko talaga makapagtapos using this talent para makatulong din ako sa kanila kahit papano.”

WHO HAS BEEN MENTORING YOU EVER SINCE? “Si Sir Romelito C. Razon, MAPEH teacher namin siya sa TNHS. Ang bilin niya sa ‘min noon ‘wag lang maging maarte sa training para gumaling kami lalo, saka ‘wag lalaki ‘yong ulo. Mas maganda raw kasi ‘yong tinuturuan kami habang medyo wala pa kaming alam, mas madali raw naming ma-absorb lahat.”

ACHIEVEMENTS “Grade 9 ako nag-start mag-CLRAA, hugot lang ako noon from private school then Grade 10 and 11. TNHS na talaga ‘yong champions noon kaya buong Tarlac High team na kaming lumalaban sa CLRAA.” ACADEMICS “Ngayon sa Adamson, okay naman. Naghahanda na ‘ko sa big shift ng pagiging student athlete ko. Pero noong high school medyo nahihirapan pero kinakaya naman. Supportive naman ‘yong coach namin especially ‘yong principal.”

TURNING POINT OF YOUR CAREER? “One time during training, off game kasi talaga ako nun then nasabihan ako na wala akong mararating and wala akong magagawa para sa team. Tumatak sa isip ko ‘yon and until now, ‘yon ‘yong isa sa mga motivations ko para mag-training pa lalo.”

GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT “Sobrang saya ko kasi ako ‘yong first na woman volleyball athlete from Tarlac National High School to qualify in Palarong Pambansa. Nag-bronze na rin ‘yong Tarlac Province noong panahon ni ate Myla Pablo kaya achievement sa ‘min kasi silver kami this time.”

USUAL FEELING AFTER EARNING A POINT? “Wala namang masyadong iba, siguro swag lang. Part naman kasi ‘yon ng game. Minsan way mo rin ‘yon to distract your opponent para mawala laro nila.”

“Si Sir Herman Mercado. Sa kanya kasi ako nabuhay e. I mean, sa kanya ko lahat natutunan ang lahat ng ‘to. Naaalala ko pa noong unang tryout ko sa kanya, talagang negative, actually, ‘di nga ako nakuha nung unang tryout ko sa kanya, then ‘yon ‘yong naging parang motivation at goal ko na gusto ko talagang makapasok sa volleyball team niya.”

COURT NAME “Tubs. Magmula nung first year ako hanggang ngayon, ‘yon na ‘yong tawag nila sa ‘kin and hindi rin naman ako sanay na tinatawag ako by my name so okay lang sa ‘kin ‘yon.”

WHO PUSHED YOU TO PLAY VOLLEYBALL? “Actually, wala. Sinali lang ako nung teacher ko then try ko raw. Para sa ‘kin, laro-laro lang pero pinush ako ng family ko. Mahiyain kasi ako kaya sumali na rin ako para ma-boost ‘yong confidence ko.”

VOLLEYBALL JOURNEY “Nag-start akong bangko lang talaga sa CLRAA then nung nasabak sa court, nirecruit ako ng UST para mag-training sa beach volleyball. Masaya naman kasi nakakalaro ko mga idol ko lalo na ka-partner ko noon sa beach volleyball si ate Cherry Rondina kaso na-homesick kasi ako noon kaya pinauwi na lang ako ni mama.”

HOW’S THE FEELING OF BRINGING HOME THE FIRST SILVER MEDAL FOR TARLAC PROVINCE IN CLRAA? “Hindi ko ma-explain. Sa totoo lang, nung training namin for regionals, may goal na talaga kami. Training pa lang, alam mo nang may ilalaban talaga and dun kami nag-silver tapos napunta kami sa Palarong Pambansa ni Sandra. Akala ko noong una, hindi talaga ako makakasurvive sa training doon pero kinaya naman.”

HOW DO YOU FEEL WHEN YOU ARE ABLE TO NAIL A POINT? “Wala naman. Ako ‘yong tipo ng tao na kapag nakapuntos, tatalikod agad. Ayoko kasi nung may nasasabi ‘yong ibang tao sakin.”

HOW DO YOU TAKE DEFEAT? “Ako hangga’t alam kong ginawa ko ‘yong best ko, madali lang naman akong nakaka-cope. Tinitingnan ko ‘yong defeat in other way. Iniisip ko na lang na natalo kami para matuto.”

WHO IS YOUR IDOL? “Idol ko talaga si ate Allysa Valdez kasi ang humble niya. Nakikita ko ‘yong attitude ko sa kanya. “ HOW VOLLEYBALL CHANGED YOUR LIFE? “Volleyball na ‘yong naging buhay ko e. Kung wala siguro ‘yong volleyball, nasa bahay lang ako, tahimik, ilag sa mga tao. Dahil din sa volleyball, natuto akong maging independent.”

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BENCH WARMERS

The Battle of Unsung Heroes Text and interview by Arsenio S. Santiago Jr. Photos by Pauline Grace B. Manzano and Isaih Kyle C. Umipig

B

eing an ace player is a responsibility that everyone considers as the hardest role of being a part of a team. Athletes in the starting line-up are deemed to be warriors who carry pressure every moment they represent the university in sports competitions. They are known to be heroes and the main key behind any championship. But out of everyone’s creed, the most emotional and mentally grueling yet underrated position is to sit on the bench—that is, to be a reserve.

Becoming a bench warmer, substitute, or back-up, not being inside the court playing, requires tons of character, discipline, and stable composure more than when you’re favored enough to play inside the court. Reserves have their own inward battle during games. They play with self-doubts and intense feelings of incapability of playing inside the court when they feel that they are needed the most. It is a complete struggle playing the role of being an option. To maintain positivity and a winning attitude despite not having the chance to at least prove yourself is the real test of being a reserve.

the team. Bench warmers have that kind of character to deal with the lack of attention and acknowledgement that unescapably come from sitting when you would rather be playing.

There is no role in the team that is more difficult to master and to consistently execute with perfection than that of being a “third stringer.” Substitutes are MVPs in their own way because they have the mark of being a true champion, and that is to play the back-up role of

This time, let’s sit in the bench and join the endeavor of our university’s silent operators. This moment, they are substitutes but a compliment that has the same vigor, prowess, and stamina in hardcourt. Let’s raise victory to Tarlac State University’s unsung heroes.

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The real test of being a champion is not measured on how many games you became MVP; it comes when things do not go your way, when you are still able to stay for the team even if you did not get even a single fortunate opportunity to break a leg inside the court; even if for some, the only contribution that you can only give is to scream for a cheer.

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How does it feel to be a bench player?

“Wala naman masyadong iba. Syempre naka-upo ako sa gilid tapos pinagaaralan ko ‘yong galaw ng team ko para kapag ipinasok ako ni Coach, alam ko [na ang] gagawin ko.”

What has been motivating you to stay in the team?

“Wala kasing tutumbas sa experience e, tsaka gusto ko talagang makapasok at maglaro sa SCUAA. Tsaka ‘yong mga kasama namin, hindi naman namin kayang iwan.”

Being a bench player, what do you think is your biggest contribution for the team?

“Syempre, kapag nasa bench ka, role mong palakasin ‘yong loob ng mga kasama mong nasa loob, especially kapag lamang na ‘yong kalaban.”

Does your coach motivate you?

“Oo naman. Sabi ni Coach, tingnan na lang next game, tapos babawi na lang.

Syempre, gano’n naman talaga minsan sa laro.”

What comes in your mind when you see your teammates struggling inside the court?

“Syempre, kinakabahan ako. Kahit nga lamang kami, kinakabahan pa rin ako, kasi hindi mo naman alam kung makakahabol ba ‘yong kalaban o hindi.”

BASKETBALL

Weird facts about you.

“Mahilig ako matulog.”

Do you have routine or rituals before trainings and games?

“Pray lang talaga bago warm up or bago magsimula ang game.”

So far, what is your greatest achievement?

“No’ng naging captain ako ng CCJE [College of Criminal Justice Education], tapos naging back-to-back champions kami during intramurals.”

Do you still remember your first defeat?

“Laban namin ‘yon against TCA, second year ako noon, semi finals.

Natalo kami by two points. Masakit sa loob, pero syempre, alam niyo namang ginawa ninyo ‘yong best kaya naiyak kami. Pero sabi ni Coach, okay lang kasi binigay naman namin ‘yong best namin. Sabi niya, bawi na lang sa susunod.”

What is your goal for this upcoming SUC III Olympics?

“Babawi. Syempre, una, gusto ko munang mapasok [sa team], tapos tutulong akong kunin ‘yong gold for TSU.” Have you ever thought of quitting?

“Hindi. Syempre, alam ko na kailangan naming ‘yong isa’t isa.”

How are you treated in the team?

“Walang lamangan sa team, walang sapawan. Rule namin ‘yon. Tsaka fair si Coach, sobra.”

TRISHA LOUISE AUSTRIA Course: BS Criminology

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ATHLETICS

JOHN OLIVER SALVADOR Course: BSBA Marketing Management

How does it feel to be a bench player?

“Nakakainggit. Nakakainggit ‘yong mga naglalaro sa field lalo na’t athletics ‘yong event ko.”

What has been motivating you to stay in the team?

“Parang love life lang ‘yan, lahat gagawin mo para masunod mo lang at makuha mo ‘yong goal mo.

May goal kasi ako e, and I will do everything para sa goal na ‘yon.”

Being a bench player, what do you think is your biggest contribution to the team?

“Siguro, during practice. Kasi hindi ka naman magiging starter kung hindi ka lumaban sa mga nasa bench, so role ko ‘yong i-set talaga ‘yong standard na kailangan nilang higitan.”

Does your coach motivate you?

“Oo naman. Lagi nilang sinasabi na kahit team B kami, at kung gusto talaga naming makapasok sa SCUAA, magsipag kami.”

Is this your first sport?

“Hindi. Nag-volleyball ako no’ng high school ako, tapos no’ng sasali na dapat ako sa official team, hindi ako natanggap kaya nagathletics ako.”

Weird facts about you.

“Tulog mantika talaga ako. Kaya kong matulog ng 10 pm to 12 pm the other day, especially kapag

walang pasok at trainings.”

Who is your celebrity crush?

“Wala e, loyal ako.”

Do you have routine or rituals before trainings and games?

“Lagi akong nagbi-breathing exercise bago ako mag-jog and sini-shake ko rin katawan ko, pampawala ng tense.”

Rate BS Marketing Management from 1 to 10.

“8.5. Mahirap, kasi minsan imbes na magte-training ka, nauubos lahat ng time mo sa mga major subjects mo kaya hindi nagiging balance ‘yong studies at paglalaro ko.”

Have you ever thought of quitting?

“Meron, one time. Pero alam mo ‘yon, gustong gusto ko kasi ‘yong sport ko e, kaya’t babalik at babalikan ko siya kahit na anong mangyari.”

Power or endurance?

“Endurance” How are you treated in the team?

“Okay naman, equal naman ‘yong treatment sa team. Lahat kami, brothers and sisters, tsaka malaking pamilya kasi kami sa team e, kaya masaya.”

If you will be given a super power, what would it be?

“Wala e. Pero idol ko si Batman.

Naniniwala kasi ako na hindi sagot ang super power all the time, mas kailangan mo minsan ng diskarte.”

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How does it feel to be a bench player?

“Para sa ‘kin, ayos lang naman.

Pero kapag dumating ‘yong point na ipapasok ka, honestly nakakakaba.

Pero feeling ko, mas masarap sa feeling ‘yong first six ka kaagad kesa ‘yong hinuhugot ka lang.”

What has been motivating you to stay in the team?

“Simple lang, mahal ko ‘yong volleyball and mahal ko ‘yong team ko and may gusto akong patunayan— may gusto pa akong ma-achieve.”

Being a bench player, what do you think is your biggest contribution to the team?

“Kapag sa training, syempre kung wala ‘yong bench player, ‘yong first six, wala silang magagawa. ‘Yong first six, hindi mabubuo ‘yon.”

Does your coach motivate you?

“Of course, kinukwento niya na noong time din niya, bangko rin siya. Tapos ‘yong motivation niya lang is magtraining nang mag-training. Sabi niya, kapag time mo na talaga, time mo na.”

Weird facts about you.

“Mabaho utot ko, solid.”

Do you have routine or rituals before trainings and games?

“Umiinom ako ng soft drinks. Wala lang, feeling ko nasa kondisyon ako kapag gano’n.”

napasok ako sa SCUAA, then bronze medalist pa, kahit bangko lang.”

Rate Civil Engineering from 1 to 10.

“Syempre, 10. Mahirap talaga, solid.

Mahirap kasi ‘yong may training tapos kinaumagahan, may klase, masakit pa katawan mo. Then mahirap din lessons and minsan, imbes na natutulog ka dahil sa pagod, ire-review mo na lang.”

What is your goal for this upcoming SUC III Olympics?

“Underdog kasi ngayon ang TSU e, kaya siguro kahit ma-maintain man lang ‘yong bronze this year. Pero kung kaya naming i-silver or gold, why not, ‘di ba?”

Have you ever thought of quitting?

“Oo naman. Factor din naman ‘yong pagiging bangko ko. Pero siguro, minsan, hindi ko nakikitaan ng improvement ‘yong level ng paglalaro ko.”

How are you treated in the team?

“Na-feel ko ‘yong seniority. Kasi diba minsan, kapag rookie inuutusutusan kayo, pero during trainings lang ‘yon. Kapag sa labas na, okay na kaming lahat, pantay-pantay na, family na kami.”

So far, what is your greatest achievement?

“So far, greatest achievement ko [ay] no’ng

Biggest fear in life “Natatakot akong mapahiya sa madaming tao.”

VOLLEYBALL

Nickname “Pey-pey, Per, o kaya Jas”

If you will be given a super power, what would it be? “‘Yong basahin ‘yong isip ng isang tao. Overthinker kasi ako e, solid.”

JASPER PINEDA Course: BS Civil Engineering

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ARCEHRY

PATRICIA ANNE BULAON Course: BSBA Financial Management

How does it feel to be a bench player?

“Noong una, nakaka-demotivate, kasi syempre, naiinggit ka kasi gusto mo ring maglaro. May tendency kasi talaga na mag-isip ka ng kung anu-ano. Pero minsan, mas nakaka-pressure pang nasa gilid lang kesa ‘yong ikaw mismo ang naglalaro.”

Being a bench player, what do you think is your biggest contribution for the team?

“May time kasi na pressured talaga ‘yong mga ka-team ko sa paglalaro, kaya lagi lang akong nandoon para i-assist sila, gaya ng paga-assemble ng gamit, especially delicate ‘yong bow and arrow namin.”

Does your coach motivate you?

“Oo naman, lalo na ‘yong trainer namin. Kinakamusta kami kung feeling namin nag-improve na kami. By that, mare-realize mo kung nag-improve ka talaga.

Pero hindi mo rin kasi masisisi ‘yong sarili mo,

kasi alam mo na may pagkukulang ka kaya hindi ka nakapasok sa team.”

Who is your celebrity crush?

“Jericho Rosales” Do you have routine or rituals before trainings and games?

“Pray lang talaga lagi.”

Nickname “Sa bahay, Ann. Sa team, bunso.

Ako kasi ‘yong pinakabata, tapos tinuturing talaga nila akong bunso—‘yong kailangan pa ng alalay.”

So far, what is your greatest achievement?

“Greatest achievement ko [ay] ‘yong napasali ako sa team na ‘to. Hindi ako nagsisisi, kasi talagang kahit dumating ako sa point na aalis na dapat ako, babalik at babalik pa rin ako.”

What is your goal for this upcoming SUC III Olympics?

“Syempre, makapaglaro. Tsaka gusto ko this year, maka-contribute na ako sa gold medals natin. Lalo na may mga nag-graduate na mga seniors, so kailangan talagang magtraining.”

Have you ever thought of quitting?

“Naisip ko ‘yon last year, pero ngayon, never na. Never ko na ulit iisipin ‘yon kasi nandito na ‘ko e.

Kailangan na lang talagang matuto pa.”

Who is your idol?

“Si Ate Divina Mapala tsaka si Kuya Ian Panzo. Ang galing kasi nila, tapos nage-excel pa sila sa acads nila.”

What has been motivating you to stay in the team?

“Kasi nakikita ko ‘yong paghihirap nung mga teammates ko, tapos after those hardships, makikita mo rin ‘yong saya sa kanila kapag nananalo sila. Gusto ko ring ma-feel ‘yon.”

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What has been motivating you to stay in the team?

“Gusto ko pang lumago ‘yong skills ko sa paglalaro ko ng taekwondo.

Syempre, gusto kong umangat pa ‘yong belt ko sa taekwondo.”

Does your coach motivate you?

“Oo naman, syempre. ‘Yong pagiging strict nila sa‘min during trainings, ‘yon ang inspiration ko sa part ko. Syempre, gusto nila kaming gumaling.”

What comes in your mind when you see your teammates struggling inside the court?

“Nanggigigil ako, syempre. Minsan, gusto mo na lang sumali tapos samahan ‘yong kasama mo para sipain ‘yong kalaban, kaso hindi pwede.”

Weird facts about you.

“Malakas ako kumain. Nakaka-seven cup of rice ako kapag napapasubo talaga.”

Who is your celebrity crush?

“Zavaya” Do you have routine or rituals before trainings and games?

“Proper stretching lang talaga. Wala naman akong ginagawang iba bago mag-start ‘yong game or training.”

Nickname “Clay”

TAEKWONDO

So far, what is your greatest achievement?

“So far, ‘yong greatest achievement ko is last SCUAA. Akala ko, hindi na talaga ako makakapaglaro; last kasi akong sinabihan na maglalaro raw pala ako.

Achievement [iyon] kasi nakapag-ayos ako ng requirements within two hours lang.”

Do you still remember your first defeat?

“Unang talo ko, noong high school.

Disqualified talaga ako noon.

Overweight ako no’n kasi hindi ako nakapagbawas ng isang kilo.”

Is taekwondo your first sport?

“Hindi. Badminton ako dati.”

What is your goal for this upcoming SUC III Olympics?

“Gusto kong makalaban ‘yong nakatalo sa akin last SCUAA, tsaka syempre, magka-medal.”

How are you treated in the team?

“Ayos naman. Friends naman kaming lahat. Brothers and sisters kami doon.”

If you will be given a super power, what would it be?

“Gusto ko ‘yong parang kay Superman. Gusto ko kasing resbakan ‘yong nakatalo sa’kin last SUC III Olympics.”

Biggest fear in life “Biggest fear ko siguro [ay] ‘yong hindi ako matapos sa pag-aaral.”

CASSIUS CLAY ESPINOSA Course: Automative Technology

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TABLE TENNIS

PAUL CARLO LAJOM Course: BS Industrial Engineering

What has been motivating you to stay in the team?

“Siguro, dahil kay Ma’am Gina.

Nakaka-inspire kasi siya. Tsaka gusto ko maging part talaga ng team at magka-medal para mapasaya ko si Ma’am Gina.”

What comes in your mind when you see your teammates struggling inside the court?

“Madami. Hindi mo rin kasi maiiwasan na mag-isip na kung ako ‘yong nandoon, I should have done better, kaso alam ko rin naman na hindi mo naman talaga magagawa lahat kapag nandoon ka na.”

Weird facts about you.

“Palatawa ako, sobra, I do lots of distorted facial expressions especially sa mga ka-close ko.”

Do you have routine or rituals before trainings and games?

“Pinapaypayan ‘yong kamay, tsaka hinihipan ko ‘yong dominant hand ko [para] pampatanggal ng tension tsaka pawis.”

Nickname “Paul, Pauleng, pero minsan, Lajom” So far, what is your greatest achievement?

“Last intramurals. Noong nanalo ako ng silver sa singles B.” Do you still remember your first defeat?

“Grade four. Nakakalungkot syempre, nakakaiyak. Syempre,

ang bata ko pa noon, iiyak ka talaga.”

Is table tennis your first sport?

“Oo, naglalaro na ako ng table tennis since grade three. Kaya kung namaster ko na ‘yong muscle memory, minsan kusa na talagang gumagalaw ‘yong mga paa at kamay mo.”

What is your goal for this upcoming SUC III Olympics?

“Syempre, una, gusto ko makapasok muna sa team A. Tapos, ibibigay ko na lahat pagkatapos.”

Have you ever thought of quitting?

“Oo naman, minsan kasi, nawala na ‘yong motivation ko. Tapos, parang nawalan na ako ng pakialam. Kasi since elementary hanggang ngayon, every time na nagte-training ako, feeling ko, first timer lang ako.”

If your coach will give you a chance to be a starter for the next SUC III Olympics, are you going to accept it?

“Oo naman, tatanggapin ko.

Pangarap ko ‘yon e.”

How are you treated in the team?

“Ayos naman, wala namang barrier sa amin. Lahat kami best buddies.”

Biggest fear in life “Siguro, ‘yong mawala ako sa sarili ko. ‘Yong feeling ko, ibang tao na ako. Iba kasi ako noon e, pero mas gusto ko ‘yong Paul ngayon.”

Who is your idol?

“Zang Jike from China”

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How does it feel to be a bench player?

“Okay lang. Kasi para sa ‘kin, hindi naman talaga ako sanay na lumalaban sa SCUAA e, more on, sa labas ako lumalaban.”

What has been motivating you to stay in the team?

“Nagkasundo kasi kami ni Raven [his friend]. Pangarap kasi niyang maging professional boxer tapos ako naman, sa MMA. Kaya kahit gusto kong umalis, hindi ko magawa kasi nga, nandoon ang mga kaibigan ko.”

Being a bench player, what do you think is your biggest contribution to the team?

“Hindi naman sa pagmamayabang, pero noong una ko kasi silang nakita, medyo mababa pa ‘yong level ng techniques na meron sila.

Tsaka ‘yong iba kasi sa kanila noon, hindi nila tinuturuan ‘yong mga bago para maging katulad nila.

Pero no’ng nakasama ko sila, naging okay naman. Madami na rin kasi akong exposure sa labas and madami na akong naging coaches from Pampanga and Manila.”

Does your coach motivate you?

“Lagi nilang sinasabi, bawi na lang sa susunod na taon, tapos magtraining pa lalo.”

BOXING

What comes in your mind when you see your teammates struggling inside the court?

“Kapag nandoon ako, napapasigaw lang ako kung anong kailangan nilang gawin. Kasi minsan, hindi sila nakikinig and mahirap kasi talagang makinig kapag nabubugbog ka na.”

Who is your celebrity crush?

“KZ Tandingan” Do you have routine or rituals before trainings and games?

“Bago [ang] game, wala naman.

Pero nagve-vape ako bago mag-start ‘yong training.”

Nickname “John” Is boxing your first sport?

“Hindi. Taekwondo ako magmula grade four hanggang third year high school, kaso hindi ko kasi nagagamit ‘yon sa street fights. ‘Yong tipong kapag lumingon ka, anytime, may pwedeng may sumapak sa’yo pero hindi mo naman magagamit ‘yong paa mo, more on kasi, kamay talaga ‘yong nagagamit.”

Have you ever thought of quitting?

“Oo ah. Gusto ko nang mag-quit no’n. Pero kasi ‘yong mga kasama ko, sila talaga ‘yong mga pinanghahawakan ko. Suportahan talaga.”

If you will be given a super power, what would it be?

“Gusto kong mag-teleport.

Aminado kasi ako, madalas akong ma-late e.”

What is your goal for this upcoming SUC III Olympics?

“Syempre, pangarap kong makasali sa SCUAA this year and manalo.”

JOHN DAVID CANDELARIA Course: Mechatronics Technology

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SILENT COMICS

by Gabbi Jann

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On its 70th year, THE WORK, the official student publication of Tarlac State University, commemorates a long history of responsible campus journalism, truthful inquiry, and determined advocacies. In its platinum year, join us as we continue our enduring efforts to end the silence of the suppressed, to amplify the unheard calls of the struggling masses.

write. move. initiate.

metanoia

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