VOLUME IX, NO. 1 AUGUST-DECEMBER 2020
THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF MINDANAO
PRIMUM
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UPHOLDING KNOWLEDGE THROUGH INFORMATION
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UMindanao gears up for ‘New Normal’ in education By Edmalyn R. Canton
ADAPTING TO THE NEW NORMAL. UM Blackboard LMS is the new virtual classroom of UMians.
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cademic year 2020-2021 started differently for all UMians, as they transit to online learning as a replacement of traditional face-to-face classes ...see page 2 following the health and safety protocols of Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) due to COVID-19 pandemic.
DOST-PCIEERD grants funding for UM’s ChemEng studs in YIP 2020
news
Mayor Sarah launches SDQR for residents, visitors Page 3
editorial
Delusional Solution Page 4
features
U
By Jaiben Lloyd A. Alabado
niversity of Mindanao’s Chemical Engineer students Ivanbert A. Damasco and Steph Kier Ponteras inked contracts with the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) as they are hailed as part of the nine student group grantees for the Young Innovators’ Program (YIP) 2020. project title Hg and Pb Detection YIP is a program estabDamasco’s Synthesis Kit Utilizing DLimonene from lished in 2017 under DOSTof nanocellulose from durian Sweet Orange (Citrus sinensis) PCIEERD that aims to give rinds and nanosilica from rice Peelings. research grants to the promising hulls for the preparation of a The awarding ceremony young researchers who are under self-healing smart concrete with last September 22, 2020 was 25 years old. augmented mechanical propconducted in a virtual ceremoAmong the 95 teams who erties develops a self-healing ny via Zoom which Damasco, submitted their research proposability on cementitious matrix to Ponteras, and Lawagon attended. als last June 15, 2020, Damasco lessen the occurrence of cracks The grantees will receive at and Ponteras have competed as in the cement-based products. most Php 800,000 budget deone of the individual teams foPonteras focuses on the pending on the line item budget cusing both studies in Nanotech- research on developing a kit that of their study, and will also nology research projects under would detect lead and mercury receive Php 15,000 monthly the mentorship of Dr. Chosel P. in the contaminated waters due -Steph Kier Ponteras allowance. ...see page 2 Lawagon. to mining wastewaters with his
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Wala jud ko nagexpect na out of 92 entries, naapil mi sa top 16 shortlisted studies, until na aapil sa Final 9.
UM-Davao holds first ever Virtual Graduation Rites
The Power of Music to the World Page 7
infotainment
R1SE- SUNR1SE (Music Review) Page 11
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ears of blood, sweat, and tears finally paid off as undergraduates, graduates, and law students joined recently in the 74th Commencement Exercise as University of Mindanao’s first-ever Virtual Graduation on August 12, 2020. The University organized two batches for the Virtual Graduation, the first batch of the Virtual Graduation was held on August 12, 2020, and the second batch was held on October 7, 2020. The Virtual Graduation streamed live on the University’s social media accounts:
By Michaelangelo C. Soriano
Facebook and YouTube for people, not just students, to see the success of the proud students of the University of Mindanao. The master of ceremony, Dr. Pedrito M. Castillo III, Vice-president on Academic Planning and Services introduced the President of the University of Mindanao, Dr. Guillermo P. Torres Jr., to formally open the Commencement exercise and followed by giving a message for the graduates. The President delivered a message congratulating the graduates of 2020. He also stated the pandemic challenges
and the students’ new mode of learning, which is the online class. The university will plan to address the students’ sustenance in online learning by investing in technologies for the students’ educational convenience amid the pandemic. The President assured the students’ resiliency and strength would give them hope during the crisis and their future endeavors. The President also gave thanks to the parents for the support they give to their children and bid the graduates congratulations again on their success. ...see page 3
VIRTUAL MARCH. The UM graduates bid goodbye on screen. Photo credits: The University of Mindanao Official YouTube Channel Account
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news PRIMUM
The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao
Tourism and Hospitality students converge on Virtual Tourcon 2020; CHE represents UM By Rhett Angelo G. Belonio
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leven 3rd year students from UM College of Hospitality Education (CHE), together with their teacher, Prof. Clarence Joy Alcaraz participated on the first virtual Youth for Tourism Conference 2020 last November 7 and 21 via zoom with the theme, “Advancing Tourism Growth in the Time of Pandemic”. The TourCon is an annual conference organized by the University of the Philippines Asian Institute of Tourism Association of Alumni. It is participated by tourism and hospitality students from different universities and colleges across the country, including the University of Mindanao (UM). During the first day of the conference, Sen. Nancy Binay, the Chairperson of the
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DOST-PCIEERD grants funding for UM’s ChemEng studs in YIP2020 “Wala jud ko nagexpect na out of 92 entries, naapil mi sa top 16 shortlisted studies, until na aapil sa Final 9. Like dream come true siya, because someday naa patent sa among study ang ma-published pod siya sa Journals,” Ponteras said in an interview. This is the first time that UM students were granted such opportunity in DOST-PCIEERD and was the only university in the whole Mindanao that participated the event. As of now, Damasco and Ponteras are now working on their projects and encouraging young innovators to explore to the works of research and create projects that would improve the quality of mankind. ...from page 1
UMindanao gears up for ‘New Normal’ in education The University of Mindanao (UM) has utilized a blended learning modality containing both asynchronous and synchronous online classes. UM launched the Blackboard Learning Management System (LMS) as a way of processing the delivery of educational content, such as learning modules, videos, and
Senate Committees on Tourism, Cultural Communities and Social Justice, Welfare & Rural Development was invited to be the keynote speaker. Her talk focused on the empowerment of the role of the youth in advancing tourism growth in the wake of pandemic. On the other hand, Sec. Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, the Secretary of the Department of Tourism delivered her inspirational message to the participants of the conference. Furthermore, notable persons in the field of hospitality management and tourism also shared their insights. Aside from the talk, the UP AIT also organized various inter-school competitions in which the participants from the University competed. For the Crisis Management Plan Competition, Kyla Base of UM is
one of the members of Padayon Local which was hailed as one of the Top 5 category winners. For the Travel Brochure, the team of Joyce Gardose, Brian Catalan, and Lorieal Joyce Sabado was among the top 10 finalists. Meanwhile, Kate Ella Antonio represented the University in MX Turismo 2020, the search for Tourism Ambassadors and was included in the Top 7 finalists. The conference ended through a virtual awarding ceremony led by Sec. Romulo-Puyat. Moreover, Xenia Faith Dulay from CHE shared her takeaway of the event, “It serves as an eye-opener for me of how the pandemic has affected the industry. Nonetheless, I am also delighted knowing that the industry is revamping gradually to cope with the challenges and adapt to the new normal.”
Photo courtesy: UPAIT Tourism and Hospitality Conference Facebook Page
UM welcomes freshmen and transferees online
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o crisis can stop students to achieve and chase their dreams. As the pandemic prompted the Higher Education Institutions (HEI) to postpone face to face classes and shift to distance learning, the University of Mindanao welcomed new set of enrollees and transferee students, coming from different cities and provinces of the country, with their unwavering dedication to excellence and total quality in education and collective aspirations remain intact. For the academic year 2020-2021, UM offers online-blended learning, which includes both asynchronous and synchronous sessions. Every freshman, transferee and continuing student hailing from each department contrived plans and strategies to finally start the long-awaited opening of classes. Each college or department conducted various
online textbooks, and of providing a means of communication between teachers and students. In a press release from Mindanao times, Dr. Ronnie V. Amorado, UM Vice President for Academic Affairs said that the university piloted LMS which is advantageous both to the students, the teachers, and even officials of the schools as they can readily get into this online classroom at the comfort of their homes. “During the pilot process, the online system was just a supplemental system to the
By Jea T. Piencenaves
College of Teacher Education said, “Your first day in the university might be different from a normal college student but I want you guys to make this as an opportunity that even though classes are made online with your professors, learn and listen to them. Make friends with your classmates and help each other. Besides it is the choice of Antao’s parents to enroll her in UM, it is also her dream university because of the quality CONNECT AND RECONNECT. College of Teacher Education education of the institution. (CTE) conducted their general assembly and oath taking last She further shared how she October 5, 2020. Photo courtesy: UM-CTE Department learned about her chosen degree program, the school’s facilities, activities such as webinars and man Bachelor of Secondary the different buildings, and the video conferencing to welcome Education major in Biological offices to visit in the campus. the students especially the fresh- Science expressed, “This new This is echoed by CSG men and transferees. The online normal experience is so touching President Rojas and said ,“Let’s conferences were attended by and satisfying at the same time. hope and pray that this situation their college dean, program head, Although, we haven’t met one that we’re experiencing will and college instructors to orient another in personal, still, the way end, so that we can go back to the students while establishing our seniors and teachers treat us is our normal lives and face to rapport and adapting with this so heartwarming.” face classes. I can’t wait to meet new normal situation. As, Edwell Vincent you guys soon at the University Vanessa Antao, a freshD. Rojas, CSG President of the of Mindanao.” physical classroom, but because of the pandemic, it will become the primary system,” Amorado told in Mindanao Times Amorado added that to allay fears that this new system will cost the students more, pointing out that the University has bought the software and that whatever small amount that they will incur is already in their miscellaneous fees. “The implementation of the system is timely [due to the pandemic]” Amorado told, responding to the quarantine procedures that needed to be enforced, such
as physical distances and the ban on the student congregation in the classroom. Meanwhile, Patricia Idmara Vista, a 3rd year Accountancy student shared her own perception on UM’s shifting to face to face class towards blended learning mode. “I am very skeptical and excited at the same time. I have doubts if we can still get the same quality education and really adapt to this new way of learning given that not everyone has the same privileges and the faculty surely have to make
considerations,” Vista spoke. UM affirms that communication is a massive concern for teachers and students. To resolve this issue, the University is also creating a mobile online classroom program that will enable students to work on a variety of tasks offline and synchronize their outputs when they return online. As of August 20, undergraduate freshmen students of 6,927 enrollees, undergraduate continuing students of 13,086 enrollees, and estimated 5,000 enrollees of post-graduate students
PRIMUM
The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao
news 03
Mayor Sarah launches SDQR for residents, visitors By Winkle Dumagil
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We also envision to use technology to support the team. We endeavor to catch many of the contacts of a confirmed positive case with the use of the Safe Davao QR,” Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte publicized via Facebook live, Safe Davao QR (SDQR) contract tracing to curb and control the non-essential movement of the people within the city to help stop the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) which tackled about city’s accomplishments, future plans, and next steps to combat the pandemic crisis.
However, SDQR system had experienced technical problems as the public raised their concerns on the process of registration including the site’s unresponsiveness, the errors, and the “under maintenance” advisory. “After the broadcast and the announcement last Tuesday that the DQR is for contact tracing and a pass, the public realized that they need to get a DQR. At some point, the site was accessed by 10,000 individuals at one time,” Mayor Sarah replied. Meanwhile, filling with
security and technical anxieties, Jeanelle Mae Micabalo, a Political Science student from University of Mindanao doubted on SDQR cyber safety saying “How sure are we if our personal information is safe? The system itself crashed down, so, the threat of hacking is there probably.” On a lighter note, John Carlo Tapdasan, a Computer Engineering student from College of Engineering Education (CEE) wished to extend the benefits of the SDQR. “Even if the pandemic is no longer existent, I want to stick to the QR code system because it will help lessen
crimes as it helps track down the criminals,” Tapdasan said. The Safe Davao QR is a platform created by the local government to help expedite contact tracing and enforce the
prohibition on non-essential travel which all residents and non-residents of Davao City are required to secure their unique and permanent DQR to travel around the city.
OSA UPDATES
Competent: Scale 1 100 – 96 95 – 90 89 – 85 84 – 80 79 – 75
UM Launches New Grading System
Scale 2 A B+ B- C+ C-
Not Competent: Scale 1 Scale 2 <75 F Others: Grade 7.1 7.2 TWE
Grade 4.0 3.5 3.0 2.5 2.0
Grade Description High Distinction Distinction Very Good Good Average
Grade Grade Description 1.0 Fail
Grade Description No Final Permit Lack Requirements Total Withdrawal of Enrollment
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UM-Davao holds first ever Virtual Graduation Rites The Honorable Honors The momentous feeling of pride escalated when the awarding of academic honors announced by Dr. Ronnie V. Amorado, Senior Vice-President for Academic Affairs. The students who graduated with Latin Honors and Academic Excellence was a very inspiring mark for every student to work hard, to earn what they have achieved, and to be excellent in the field they took. Though only a few are candidates for the academic honors, their efforts will be recognized by so many students who will soon finish their degrees and work hard to receive their prestigious awards. Honor and Gratitude Dr. Pedrito M. Castillo II introduced Dr. Eugenio S. Guhao Jr. to read citations to
honor the graduates’ parents by acknowledging their wholehearted devotion and sacrificial efforts. To give parents the utmost gratitude for their sacrifices and love, the bulak sa pasalamat was given by Lyn Carel T. Garcia, Bachelor of Science in Criminology, and his mother, Mrs. Carel T. Garcia, in the first batch of the Commencement Exercise. And in the second batch, it was given by Alec Christian M. Cervantes, Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, Magna Cum Laude, and his mother, Christina M. Cervantes. In honoring the beloved and hard-working faculty members, Junne Eddren S. Jamia, Bachelor of Science major in Mathematics, presented the Salute to Faculty while Ian Angelo Macalam, Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management, Cum Laude, delivered in the second batch. Excellent Graduates The Deans introduced different colleges’ candidates to honor and recognize them as graduates of the Universi-
UM Main – The Institute of Pedagogical Advancement for Competitiveness or IPAC (formerly known as Academic Planning Services or APS) of the University of Mindanao announces its new grading system to be implemented and shall be used for courses in the first year level in this school year 2020-2021 in the UM Main and Branches. The primary goal is to produce grades that more accurately reflect student’s learning progress and achievement.
ty. Their devotion to finish their degree and dreams will inspire students who will one day walk to the stage and be recognized as graduates of the University. For the other students, the perseverance and dedication to push through despite the challenges in the University must serve as an inspiration to every other student still working on finishing their degree. A Curtain Closed and A New One Opens As the Commencement Exercise neared its end, the proud graduates are now ready to face the hardships outside the school and chase their dreams. The curtain is closed, and a new one is about to open; a new page unfolds for our graduates. Hardships will be inevitable among graduates, especially now in the pandemic, but they can push through for sure. As they overcome their ordeals, the University’s ideals will undoubtedly reflect in their lives.
Hence, institutions like UM has to develop effective ways to align with the international benchmark in terms of grading systems, wherein teaching, learning, and proficiency matter most in the holistic development of the student. Hence, below is grading system, with two basic grading schemes – the numerical and the letter grade, wherein the General Percentage Average (GPA) is calculated on a scale of 4.0 following based-15 grade equivalent and 75 as a passing
mark. This means that if the first year student shall have a grade of 95, for example, in the GE 2 Purposive Communication class, he/ she shall have a numerical grade of 3.5 under the scale of B+ with a grade description of “Distinction” reflected in the Transcript of Records. Courses from the second year level to fourth/fifth year level this year shall follow the previous grading system, where the highest grade of 100% is equivalent to 1.0 numerical grade.
CEE-CSG conducts Online Talent Festival By Marcel Dagohoy
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midst the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic, the College of Engineering Education- College Student Government (CEE-CSG) regulated the most anticipated and long-month celebration, ESTUARIES 2020: Phoenix’s Online Talent Festival that started on November 1. This awaited moment comes with a series of activities that showcase the Engineering students’ talents, which includes extemporaneous speech, vocal duet, phoenix’s trivia night, TikTok challenge, digital poster making, mobile legends tournament, creative face shield challenge, essay writing contest, chess tournament, Balak/spoken poetry, vocal solo, call of duty mobile, and Dota tournament. As of now, the event is still ongoing,
and many exciting activities have yet to be done. “This event will provide ‘fun and entertainment’ among all the students that will uphold oneness despite the pandemic,” stated by Sheldon Alden Saluta, the CEE-CSG President. He added that this celebration would not be complete without the help of officers, staff and the Engineering department heads especially the CSG adviser, Engr. Alfonse T. Estibal and the CEE Dean, Dr. Charlito Caῆesares. “To my constituents, let me be your steward in this new normal. I want to establish a bureaucracy that will prioritize the student’s optimal well-being; we’ll listen to your voice, will be your constant when you need help and assistance,” Saluta said.
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editorial
PRIMUM
The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao
DELUSIONAL SOLUTION U nexpected nightmare has been encountered in the Philippines when a new respiratory infection outbreak called novel coronavirus enters the country and has given us a new spin of life in an instant. The said virus started in China that affects the whole world and declared by World Health Organization as pandemic. It victimizes anyone, and nobody is even spared of its intensity. To say the least, we all did not see it coming. Our own government was even caught off guard— which has led to unforeseen consequences. Understandably, no country is even prepared but it could have been prevented. They could have done something to mitigate the situation, they should have— and that is accountability. A little throwback, in the month of March, the President delayed the travel restriction that caused to spread the virus rapidly in the country. But if only the government imposed early travel ban as early as January and set aside emotional attachments to other countries- we might have never reached this point. The Philippine government is slow-moving with regard to the capacity of the test, trace, and treat of COVID-19 patients. Conducting Mass testing was even difficult to achieve. As a result, the country ranks as one of the countries with most number of cases in Southeast Asia as it struggled to ramp up testing and contact-tracing. While the number of cases continues to increase, the national government started to experience shortage to medical resources. Not to mention some hospitals have reached maximum bed capacity and some medical frontliners are infected too which resulted to reduced workforce in the hospitals. Thus, it crippled the Philippines ability to quell the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, there was an allocated budget from the government that would assist the whole nation amid the pandemic crisis. Nevertheless, the welfare programs such as SAP are not sustainable, and these will never suffice in the long run. The problem aggravated when the President announced the ₱25.1 billion budget, but only ₱3.1billion is allocated. PACC Commissioner Greco Belgica said that there are anomalies in SAP distribution. This is not something new, since time immemorial, the Philippines is experiencing this endemic known as corruption. If we are to look at the bigger picture, nothing is more appalling with this unjust system that only benefits the rich and will never favor the poor. And these unlawful activities even occurred in the wake of a global health crisis? Shame. It has been eight months already that the country and its people are suffering from the crisis, yet we have not flattened the curve. Throughout these months, we heard nothing but an endless dispute between two parties, two colors. We have been advised to be resilient but how long can we last? We are not promised tomorrow. We do not have the luxury of time to celebrate especially those who are caught in the middle of the battleground and those who are on the edge of a cliff. Gone are the days of romanticizing resiliency and optimism. The government needs to have wise and right decisions to address the problem. They need to uphold the rules they have implemented– no one should be above the law. They need to give more focus in addressing this crisis than other futile issues. They need to provide more funds– for more medical resources, financial support to those in the marginalized sector, and provide reasonable pay to all essential frontliners. As students of the University and as citizens of the country, we must amplify our voices and strengthen our power to fulfill our role as the hope of our future. We must take part in performing our duty to cooperate and follow the rules and health protocols established by the authority because after all, this is a collaborative effort. We shall commend the good and denounce the evil. We should never be afraid to call out incompetence and hold those in power accountable. Remember that choosing to be silent and doing nothing only reeks apathy. Most importantly, we should be reminded to weigh things accordingly and choose leaders who are not just good with words, but also in deeds and can think critically and provide visionary solutions.
PRIMUM
EDITORIAL BOARD AND STAFF VOLUME IX NO. 1 AUGUST-DECEMBER 2020
Editor-in-Chief: Rhett Angelo G. Belonio Associate Editor: Jaiben Lloyd A. Alabado Managing Editor Jose Maria Salvador N. Araullo News Editor: Edmalyn R. Canton Features Editor: Jea T. Piencenaves Cartoonist: Marielle E. Moner Moderator:
Marianne P. Afrondoza
Staff Writers Shiny Deborah Rose A. Bullecer Marcel Marie T. Dagohoy Philip John A. Daguipa Winkle M. Dumagil Adrian Kenneth G. Nervida Kryzl Laureanne M. Romaldon Michaelangelo C. Soriano Contributors Jomar C. Benjamin Preciois Angel Yassin Kiemar C. Luistra Justine Anne S. Miralles Rochel Dave Saavedra Sherwin Glen Ali
PRIMUM is the official student publication of the University of Mindanao. Its editorial office is located alongside the Gymnasium, UM Matina Campus, Davao City, Davao del Sur, 8000; It can be reached through the telephone number, (082) 300-5456 local 142 and email address umprimum@gmail.com. All rights reserved. No part of Primum may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publication. All contributions become Primum’s property and the Editor-in-Chief reserves the right to edit all articles for publications.
I TOLD SUNSET ABOUT RUE Rhett Angelo G. Belonio Editor-in-Chief
r.belonio.475914@umindanao.edu.ph
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Odd Ad-opted: On Soda, Glasses, and Stigma
f there are better ways to describe the year 2020 has been apart from it is “a series of unfortunate events” then dare to let me know. Adding an extra spice to the bizarre moments of the year, the new ad of RC cola gripped many viewers. It truly left an indelible mark on us as if we are assessing a glass of water if it is half full or half empty and our interpretation depends on our point of view. Whether the glass is half full or half empty, it could be a familiar subject within the commercial. The ad begins with a boy who has a dark complexion and curly hair expressing his sentiment to his mother whose skin is lighter and has straight hair if he is adopted. He confessed that he often gets bullied and shamed because he looks different. Despite his mother’s immediate contradiction, he urged her to tell the truth while taking off his uniform and revealing his back with four empty glasses attached to it. The mother then pulled her head off and revealed that she is actually an RC Cola bottle. She then filled the glasses on her son’s back with ice cubes and the ad ends in a scene where the entire family was enjoying the glasses of RC cola together. A variety of reactions, emerging conspiracy theories, and critical analyses quickly sprung up online. Some lauded its brilliance; some expressed their disgust and intense condemnation. Whether it has received positive or negative comments, undeniably, they succeeded in their objective to create an organ-
ic buzz for the brand. They just stepped up their game out of the norms and mediocrity of Filipino commercials for rendering a riveting concept not to mention the quality and advanced visual effects and cinematography. However, they could have put a trigger warning for people, especially young viewers who have trauma and phobia toward nightmare and trypophobia-inducing images. Moreover, I do understand that the social media buzz reaction is subjective. Nonetheless, I also want to magnify that despite its surreal and new concept, it has a thought-provoking take on a sensitive topic— adoption. I have seen how people on social media started to use the line of the ad, “Ampon ba ako?” to poke fun with their friends and in response, “Check mo likod mo kung may mga baso ka”. Although the commercial was not made with the intention of offending anyone, adoption as a trope in the ad gives rise to the problematic perpetuation of stigma in society. It became a punchline for mocking where it offends those who are directly affected. I am convinced that this is a consequence heavily influenced by the mainstream media, where commonly the portrayal of the adopted child is someone who is always being bullied or oppressed. As a result, the negative behaviors and stereotypes toward the adopted child appear to be normal and are deeply rooted in our society to the degree that these have become tolerated, worse accepted. For
that reason, it may seem as if it is impossible to undo the damage and destigmatize, we really need to be stern in calling out even the slightest affront portrayed on screen. More so, I stand with my belief that what should be highlighted in Philippine media is the celebration of adoption and its real-life stories including its bittersweet journey. May we all realize the need to countervail these portrayals with contents that will revamp the toxic culture and finally recapture the real perspective of adoption. In retrospect with the ad, I will not wrangle anymore if some are convinced that the mother filling her son’s glasses with the beverage was a symbol of her love and the whole family enjoying the beverage manifests acceptance and equal treatment. If only commercials showcase enough and proper representation, radiate positive impact, and deliver a clear message to the viewers, then these are the kind of stories that we wish to see in the Philippine media every year. After all, nothing is more fulfilling than knowing how a commercial can instigate healthy and friendly discourses which can help us discern the bigger picture and can also be an instrument for change in perception toward sensitive and emotional subjects. To simply put, we can be entertaining and at the same time educating. It may sound odd but let us remember that we have our own glasses, and they will remain empty if we do nothing to fill them.
PRIMUM
The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao
opinion
ANO NA JEA-N? Jea T. Piencenaves Feature Editor
j.piencenaves.518875@umindanao.edu.ph
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Never Judge a Music by its Language
former beauty queen received a backlash from the Filipino K-Pop Community as she posted on her Facebook page spurring hate toward the genre, K-pop. The infamous “Filipinos are starting to lose their identities trying to be like Koreans” card was pulled out again out of nowhere. This is just one of her few lines that incited hateful comments and eventually triggered the said community to come after her. On the last part of her post, she bravely exclaimed that Filipinos
speak English better than Koreans, adding insult to injury. As a result, the hashtag #OpinyonMoShareMo rapidly topped the Twitter trend list. Just because someone likes a certain culture or a particular genre, does that automatically mean he or she has lost her identity and forgotten her original roots? She is being hypocrite and a racist towards Koreans. She is also downgrading their English skills by saying we Filipinos speak the said language better than they do. In my view,
being able to speak the English language is not tantamount to intelligence. Nothing comes good with you being a hater. This kind of mentality is only wanting more Filipino to support artists from other parts of the world instead. K-Pop fans are not trying to be Korean; they just know how to appreciate and respect the culture and music. K-Pop is for everyone to enjoy. Filipinos listen to the genre because they are after the music quality and versatility of the artists. Besides
MIC TEST Michaelangelo C. Soriano Staff Writer
m.soriano.479122@umindanao.edu.ph
Warning: The Dangers of Identity Politics
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DS, Yellowtard or Dilawan, maka-Marcos, LGBTQ, and Feminist movements. These are the terms that are trending today in the Philippines, and they all have one thing in common: they are identity groups, and they hold very controversial issues. These aforementioned groups contain a dangerous resentment-ridden ideology, and that is identity politics. For starters, if anyone were to ask, what is identity politics, and
why is it so dangerous? Identity politics is when a group of racial, religious, ethnic, social, or cultural identity pushes agendas or interests that disregard a larger, broader political group. Identity politics is vastly dangerous because a person identifies people in a certain category of groups. That person makes a hierarchical structure of groups to identify what kind of group is at the top or, in some cases, in power. And those who are at the
bottom of the hierarchy dismantle those at the top. They do not see you as an individual, but the group you associate with. The political divide of identity politics arises when collective ideological groups overshadow an individual’s thoughts. The force driving this political activism is mostly driven by a resentful judgment that leads to prejudice, causing an insane conflict between different identity groups’ narratives. Challenging the narrative of
MADEMARSELLE Marcel Maire T. Dagohoy Staff Writer
m.dagohoy.482185@umindanao.edu.ph
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Ad Hominem Attacks: A Harmful Logical Fallacy
d hominem attacks are the killer of the arguments. It lost the actual merit of your statements and the essence of a healthy discussion. One of the most used platforms nowadays is social media, where most of us comfortably post our sentiments and thoughts. However, given that they cannot see you, and you do not see them too, they can easily render such ad hominem attacks if your post does not suit their beliefs. Indeed, it is the best spot where
most of us become a once-in-alifetime judge, not in the court but someone’s personality. This fallacy is quite effective in shutting down the debate. One of the reasons is it provokes the other person’s emotions by undermining their character, which prompts them to shift to defend themselves rather than what they stand for. This situation undoubtedly exists most of the time. I saw numerous posts circulating on social media, mostly talking
about politics. At first, I thought it would be alright for the people to publicize their sentiments and opinions regarding our government’s undertakings since it is their right to do so. However, as this system continuously prevails on the internet, this has gradually caused ad hominem attacks that are already too much to bear. Most people forgot that we live in contentious times, where our political beliefs and standpoints are quite distinct in nature. With this, it can be said that Social
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their visuals and talents, Filipino K-pop fans support them because they seem to be a total package. Also, Filipino K-Pop fans express admiration on how much K-Pop artists dedicate their love and passion for music and staying grounded amidst popularity. Truth to be told, K-Pop is a lot better than modern western artists. I think most people here in the Philippines especially the young generation likes listening to music despite of a song’s inappropriate concept and lyrics. It marked on me how this one Filipino rap song that contains foul words in its lyrics dominated the Filipino music chart for the very reason that it has a catchy beat. I could not forget how it was being repeatedly played and used on TV and radio programs not considering the multigenerational listeners. I could not understand how these supposed to be restricted songs were able to pass through the authorities. Moreover, I also believe that the reason why many people sup-
port K-Pop as a genre because our own entertainment industry does not put the spotlight to real talents. There are a lot of Filipino artists who really have the potential and talent who could compete with international artists. However, the companies and producers here in our country do not promote these artists well. They neglect pure talents and bestow the spotlight to those mediocre ones. For the past decade, K-Pop has raised the standard of a high-quality and world-class entertainment. K-Pop artists knows how to use their influence of making the world a better place. Every music that are release to the world creates a huge impact towards millions of people. You have the leeway and the privilege to like and listen to any music of your taste. What is not acceptable is shaming one’s inclination , gaslighting and invalidating his patriotism. Considering the battles that we are facing, cut people some slack— even for music.
these group identities results in being labeled with negative, horrifying names. For example, when you have different opinions about the president of the Republic of the Philippines, you are labeled as Dilawan or Yellowtard. And if you disagree with the LGBTQ and Feminist movements about special privileges policies, you are a bigot or sexist. In other words, playing identity politics results in groups automatically slander contrary ideas without hearing the other side’s perspective. And as students, we should reject shutting down opinions from people who have different views from our own; we should take it as a challenge that having a decent conversation about why we disagree on things makes it more reasonable than calling someone negative things and judge quickly. Playing identity politics means we do not acknowledge each other as individuals because
we see people on what group they are. A person who sees everyone as part of a certain category of groups may start playing the victim. They start accusing other groups of their weakness and miseries. Such ideas of victimization do nothing than create intergroup conflicts. Simply put, an individual cannot win playing identity politics. To reject identity politics, we must encourage ourselves to see everyone as an individual with diverse thoughts. We must not discriminate against anyone with different opinions because it does nothing to find common ground. Judging a person in the group they belong to does nothing to reach consensus, nor does it unite. Reaching consensus is not easy when someone disagrees with us, but it is well within our choice to challenge what divides us to achieve what unites us. We cannot be whole if we always think as halves of the whole.
Media and Politics are sometimes toxic combinations. Personally, those people who use ad hominems to their opponents show weaknesses and too much narcissism. This fallacy is mostly used when a person becomes cornered with the reasoning that they cannot rebut, and what they do is to attack the person to avoid further discussion and hide the possible wounded pride from losing. For me, if you cannot stand any longer with your statement, it would be better to acknowledge that you are cornered, and you are running out of reasons to say. It cannot make you a less person if you admit that you fought the things you once thought are worth fighting for. Nobody wants to feel being defeated or a loser, and that is perfectly normal to feel. Everyone craves to be on top like no one can throw their crown. But this attitude is already suffocating, especially in aiming for a healthy discussion in social
media. This may be inevitable to happen, but we need to put in mind that it is best to keep on learning and acquire more knowledge waiting for you to unfold. Using ad hominems will never be the best method to win; it will only undermine your own arguments as much as you undermine someone’s character. On the brighter side, you are not closing any doors of improvement when you accept and acknowledge that your arguments are not suitable to push through. Open yourself to all the opportunities of development and be a better version of yourself. That is the only way to move forward boundlessly. Thus, having a constructive public discourse does not mean winning over someone, but it is also a matter of respecting your competitor amidst contentions. Be a good influencer of words and focus on the argument, not on the person’s character.
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feature PRIMUM
The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao
Photo courtesy: https://i.ytimg.com/vi/3fnpFj7mEJM/maxresdefault.jpg
Illustrations by Jomar Benjamin & Precious Angel Yassin
Escape from reality: The trends amidst the pandemic Pcohueosyrt:
Photo courtesy: https://files.pia.gov.ph/source/2020/04/27/barter.jpg Photo courtesy: https://hicksnurseries.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/succulents_shutterstock_286576340-copy. jpg
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he lives of many people in the world have been altered due to the unprecented challenge of the pandemic. We remain puzzled of our future and all different feelings are rolled together. Despite our route, though, it seems normal for us Filipinos to be happy and find a way to escape fear and difficulties, even for a moment. It does not help fill our heads with meaningless patterns and threats under challenging times like the current pandemic to avoid confronting the reality of what is indeed occurring. Someday we’ll look back on this moment and we’ll be reminded of our unwavering resilience. Here are the pandemic trends that have kept our morale high in the wake of pandemic: A car in exchange of 250 sack of rice, vegetables for jewelry, and a bag of grocery items in exchange of appliances, you can instantly get what you need without money involved with online barter. This became the system of the Filipinos to make it easier to acquire necessities by exchanging products. You can get anything except personal protective equipment. However, on July 14, 2020, The Department of Trade and Industry warned the public that online barter trade is illegal. They encouraged online sellers to register with the Department of Trade and Industry and the Bureau of Internal Revenue. According to Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez, the barter trade is illegal and against the law everywhere else in the country. Nevertheless, in some parts of Mindanao like Sulu and Tawi-Tawi, barter trade is allowed. If there is something we have to learn from the crisis we are facing right now, it is the fact that there is no lasting quality, no matter how good and amazing things are.
By Shiny Deborah Rose A. Bullecer Furthermore, as most of the population is locked up to reduce coronavirus spread, people face multiple social media challenges to keep them going. Thanks to social media because it gave us knowledge and some things to make us busy. Who can forget the sudden trend of floppy and creamy Dalgona Coffee? Yeah, it is indeed a Korean coffee drink that is storming over the internet; Dalgona coffee is like a cappuccino that is s flipped on its head, with frothy coffee on top and milk underneath. It only takes three ingredients to produce, and it can be hot or cold. The most challenging thing is making your photo right! Moreover, YouTubers and social media influencers who reproduced the original short video recipe had better luck: they had more than 12 million views at the time of this report and made this coffee more trending. However, the term Dalgona means ‘Honeycomb Toffee,’ was already popular in South Korea in the early 70s and 80s(spice blog). We found Dalgona coffee to be one of the early quarantine trends that have emerged throughout this indefinite and unpredictable period of time when keeping indoors and preventing social contact has become a new standard for all of us. Aside from that, we discovered ourselves with a far more moment in our arms and less favorable material around us. These had led many people to turn to social media to keep things enthusiastic. As the world expects an extended time of social distancing, teenagers and even adults bring people together with ‘’memes’’, video challenges, and many entertaining things because of TikTok. The platform is fun, likable, and portrayed in an easily digestible style on the site, making it ideal for browsing lockdown. This same app’s friendly and interactive natural world is also great for everyone. Research says there
is no question that in 2020, TikTok will dominate the social landscape. After a record-setting Q1, TikTok saw 315 million installs, TikTok has now reached 2 billion alltime global downloads through iOS and Android devices. This is thought to be the largest number of downloads in a single quarter ever for a social media app. Through the said app, it helps us to laugh even for once. Staying home is better when we do planting. The quarantine era took us back surrounded by nature, and someone we know could not agree more for sure, who may well have turned plantita or plantito while stuck at home. And just like them, stars made plant parenting ever more stylish including Aubrey Miles, Tuesday Vargas, Gretchen Fullido, and Jinkee Pacquiao. We cannot deny that creativity is natural for us as Filipino. Also, with the emergence of budding “plantitos” and “plantitas,” they took the opportunity to have an income while enjoying what they love to do. Despite the price tags on plants may have been affected, but in fact, there is nothing more satisfying than just seeing life grow, particularly now that it is so challenged. These are just a few of the things that once made our lives easier amid the difficulties we face. Online barter, making a creamy dalgona coffee, planting, and having some fun time in TikTok were the things we spent our time to escape the sad reality in this time of uncertainty. Having quality time for ourselves is so much important right now. There is no fault in making ourselves happy, but the stuff we enjoy should always be done in moderation. Indeed, we are so grateful to be Filipinos because we all have these optimistic characteristics and resiliency that we need during this period to survive the numerous challenges our lives have.
PRIMUM
The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao
feature
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THE POWER OF MUSIC TO THE WORLD By Jea Piencenaves
Photo courtesy: http://www.tri-power.net/show_content.php?id=1494
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ities and provinces from different parts of the world have imposed lockdown restrictions, large social gatherings are sternly banned, and the stay-at-home policy has been strictly implemented; the pandemic leaves working artists and performers particularly vulnerable and out of the center stage especially those who depend their living in concert tours and live performances. Nonetheless, the media and entertainment industry has found the perfect strategy to continue giving people the highclass entertainment they need as well as a working opportunity for artists and performers. Now that everything can be done online, music intellectuals took this chance to put their hundred percent effort and advancement over in the virtual world. Amidst the pandemic, concerts and music festivals are now even made possible as they adapt to the new normal. Thanks to the fantastic innovation of technology, people all around the globe can still enjoy music-related events and performers can still perform even if they are not in the actual stage rather in the comforts of their own space. This proves how the realm of music has persisted to provide the world with joy and pleasure that most people expect and look forward to in these trying times. What is also laudable about online events is that they are held for a charitable purpose directed to extend help. Over the past few months, there are several live-streaming concerts and physically distanced music
Photo courtesy: Done Gold Media YouTube Channel events were conducted around the world. In the Philippines, the One Vision, One Cause went live. It was an online concert that took place last April 17, 2020. It was a concert for a cause intended to help the country’s COVID-19 frontliners. Hosted by the special guests Kean Cipriano and Chynna Cipriano, the show happened via Facebook live which featured musical performances, thrilling games, and jamming sessions with many artists such as real-life music couple Gabbi Garcia and Khalil Ramos, Laureen Uy, Issa Pressman, Miggy Cruz, to name a few. In South Korea, Beyond Live is the world’s first online customized paid concert presented by South Korea’s most extensive entertainment agency, the home of many world-famous K-Pop acts of today, SM Entertainment. The online concert used advanced AR Technology, real time 3D graphics, fantastic stage production, and highclass performances. The concert kicked-off last April 26th of the same year, the concert has total of 7 shows so far. Fans saw eye-dropping and dynamic performances coming from artists under SM Entertainment which includes SuperM, WayV, NCT Dream, NCT127, TVXQ and Super Junior. The online concert is a must for fans who missed to see their favorite artists perform live because of the current world crisis. In the United States, One World: Together at Home was the much-awaited concert of the
year in the middle of the pandemic and it happened on April 18, 2020. The show is jampacked with global famous singers such as Beyonce, Lady Gaga, Camila Cabello, Shawn Mendes, Taylor Swift, Celine Dion, Billie Eilish, John Legend, and many more. In Mexico, Live from Inside, the popular drink brand 1800 Tequila hailing from Mexico organized this music event starring Lauren Jauregui, former member of the girl group Fifth Harmony, through Instagram Live last May 5. The event was not just an ordinary online concert but also a fundraising activity where a video stream was equivalent to a dollar. The proceeds will be a donation for Music for Relief. Furthermore, to set the mood on fire and make it even more intense, a guest mixologist shared how to make cocktails with the sponsored brand eventually. This pandemic is indeed a disaster for artists and performers, and it will probably take a while for the arts and music industry to go back to the way it used to. Nevertheless, this proves that no matter what kind of catastrophes come along the way, the arts particularly music will never stop giving the world the exceptional type of healing that the people need. In fact, this pandemic only made artists, musicians, and fans even stronger in continuing their love for their craft. Despite the current situation, music’s power will continue to give comfort and happiness to the world and art is indeed our catharsis.
Photo courtesy: Beyond Live Twitter Account
Photo courtesy: metro.style/culture/events/tune-into-one-vision-one-cause/24606
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creatives
Better Off Alone: An Open Letter to the World By Sherwin Glenn Ali
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ife works well when you are in isolation. I grew up without hesitating to live life in solitude and was not taught to become dependent to others. Even before this pandemic, my life only revolves by keeping my distance in the crowd — even in my own family which was supposed to be my home. I never learned anything back at home except for one thing; we are better off alone. I am not a virus, but everyone’s been treating me like one. Ever since a child, everything flows without consideration. It was always been me, myself, and I who was in isolation. No wonder why I don’t feel any changes when this pandemic took place and shattered the dreams and lives of every individual. I knew that I am weak, I knew that I needed help but one thing is for sure, everything shall come to an end. They say it is time to let go of the past, embrace the present, and hold onto the future. How am I supposed to work things out when I have lived my whole life running towards an unending path and avoiding the crowd? Tomorrow is uncertain but everything is in accordance to His will. I may not be able to change the ugly story I had in the past but I was able to live through the present and that is the best gift from above. This pandemic made us realize that we are weak, we are vulnerable, and that we are broken. This is to made us fall down on our knees and go back to the source of light, hope, courage, and life. That there is no other answer to these worldly sorrow beside Him — His wisdom, His righteousness, in Him alone. We are not better when we are alone. We do not deserve to be in isolation, and distance is not the solution. For in life, we are better in the hands of our God. Be glad, stand still, and rejoice for there’ll be no longer a curse in the world.
An Open Letter to Uplift Sanity By Jose Maria Salvador N. Araullo
Dear sanity, I know that you are tired. I can see how exhausted you are from the current situation of the world. But do not give up, for I am here. I truly know that one day, the sun will shine on us again, just like Loki, the brother of Thor, said. You just have to grip yourself because I know that many obstacles will still come through. However, please do your best to grip for the sake of your people. You are the one who mold and nurture your people. You are the one who is responsible for reminding them to fight despite the most challenging trials. But once you feel tired and weak, you lose out from their sights and eventually turn into a darkness that distorts the mind. But please, do not let that happen. I know that you care for your people. Hang on! We are almost at the end of the tunnel. I know for sure that tranquility will once again consume us, and smiles will be back from our faces. Love, Hope
PRIMUM
The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao
Grasping One Last Hope By Jose Maria Salvador N. Araullo
Illustrations by Marielle Moner
Staring towards the null wall Closing the hope, as I fall Ascend beyond to reminisce That always drag me ever since The contagious beast has kissed Neglecting the Abyss For I consume the dreadful sneeze That halt the blissful ease. Rare to walk with tranquility Thinking to vanish in hideous look Pinning myself with obscurity Oblivion was about to hook. Alas! Saved from the grievous hook Dusk has faded as I look. Grasping the beaming light of hope For I shall free myself from death as I cope
Drowned By Keimark Conde Lustria
I wake from darkness To a touch of buoyant liquid Tranquil and silent Of water flesh Embracing the skin Of a man within A flesh unto flesh Yet not warm but wintery There’s light overhead And pleasures that fleet For time do answers With a thief from sea Reaving his air Out from his breath Suffocating and fear His demise unveiled
Illustrations by Marielle Moner
PRIMUM
The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao
Save Me... By Glennyfer D. Gervacio
creatives 09 Gaea’s Reboot By Rochel Dave Saavedra
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Illustrations by Marielle Moner
Holding a void for too long, Creates beautiful scratches and pain, Want you to come along, Save me from this unbroken chain. Listen to the song of the million crickets, Roses will bloom under the beam of the moon, I will watch you just like I have a thousand movie tickets, Save me from this isolated universe soon. Let us look up to the same sky, We are literally far, Wipe my rain of cry, Save me from this place of liar. Holding the rope of hope for too long, Creates beautiful memories and treasures. Then you came along, You save me from my unknown creatures.
Illustrations by Marielle Moner
The Real Vaccine By Justine Anne Miralles
It’s not just hoping for light and new beginnings. Sometimes it’s sceneries that will melt every person’s heart Unity not coming from commands or from responsibilities, But pity made from pure kindness and sincerity. Actions coming from the heart are the best solutions Seeing people around us with their glittering eyes Full of mixed emotions like fear, and courage with happiness It’s like a rope that’ll cheer us up firmly During calamities like this pandemic Our status is not a credit for survival We shouldn’t think how to survive alone. But start thinking on how to survive with a lot of people
onestly, this is the strangest thing that I went so far in my life. I was sitting on the highest mountain where I could see the cityscape below my feet. It was beautiful yet terrifying at the same time because somehow, even this far, I could clearly see all the people suffering: the disease that can easily infect a person from the west; calamity that flooded and destroys properties from the east; famine from the north; plague from the south; too many suffering that even my eyes could not fully register. Voices were wailing, crying for help. My body shivered, and I recognized it was not just because of the cold night. I badly wanted to help, but I was left no choice but to watch from afar. “Why is this happening to the world?!” I mumbled to myself, not trying to break my gaze from it. “It’s a reboot,” a woman’s voice spoke. I looked in her direction with startled eyes, realizing I was not alone. The woman was staring at me with her turquoise eyes. She has this beautiful brown skin. So ravishing that it can be compared to Earth’s fullest color. Her dress was the brightest emerald that shines in the glint of the stars. She is the epitome of beauty. “A what?!” I asked when I realized that I stared too long at her. “A reboot,” she reiterated. “It’s when I need to execute old boots.” I was not sure what she’s talking about, but I didn’t like it, especially when I heard the word execute. “What do you mean ‘old boots’?” “The virus.” At first, I thought she was talking about the disease, but when she pointed to someone slowly dying because of a cough and fever, I figured out that she’s talking about the people. “But they are humans!” I exclaimed, not believing that with her physical beauty lies an unkind personality. “Why do you want them to suffer?! They are all victims!” “Have you ever realized that maybe I’m the victim, that I’m the one who’s damaged and has suffered?” Her voice was so calm, yet there was an edge on it. But I could not tell whether she’s angry or sad. She paused for a while; her eyes were gazing at the men slowly drowning. I should say something. I should try to argue about what she said, yet there’s a big part of me believing she’s right after all. “What’s the name of the little thing you invented that has a screen and typing buttons that all of you can’t get off your eyes on it?” she asked, glancing at me. “Computer?” “Yeah! That’s it.” Then she gave me that rare smile, which reminded me of a sunrise. “What will happen if that thing has full of viruses?” I hesitated for a moment, not knowing where this will be going. “It will damage and will not function?” “Right. And what would you do to restore it?” “You need to--” then I stop, fully realizing everything. “A reboot.” “Absolutely.” Silence was lurking between us for a while. We just settled our gaze toward every people suffering. Then something caught my attention. A child who’s crying for help. “But innocent people are suffering as well.” I heard her chuckle, “Virus corrupts good files. You should remember that. Not because I’m the computer doesn’t mean I can control everything that happens in my system.” And at that moment, I knew there’s nothing I could argue. “People should realize that I have limits. People should know how to be a good file. So that virus can’t spread, and the reboot remains unnecessary.”
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CAE
The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao
Know thy P residents CAFAE
CASE
How will you perform your duties as president on an online platform?
How will you perform your duties as president in an online platform?
How will you perform your duties as president in an online platform?
As the voice of the studentry of CAE, my duties and responsibilities are not limited to what concern, complaints, and queries the students have. I believe that it is also my responsibility to make sure that they will live their college life more meaningful and more valuable, making most of their student life worth remembering. New normal means a new system of how activities are being done. Technology plays a very important role since the availability of programs is within our reach to be still connected. With this, I can still perform my duties with the help of the student council as well as the cooperation of the students. I cannot perform my duties without your help, you serve as my purpose to make this academic year a meaningful one.
Being the President of the CAFAECSG School Year 2020-2021, I will perform my duties and desire in an online world by optimizing the opportunities of social media platforms. We all know that online platforms are important parts of the digital world. For me, based on what is happening currently, social media platforms are strong drivers of innovation, information dissemination wise, and have played a crucial role in everyone’s digital world. I will grab the opportunity of using convenient social media platforms to be my rallying point in making my college great again. I will use it to my advantage that even though we are physically distant from each other, using efficient social media platforms can make us more virtually engaged. I will use my platform of influence to amplify voices and unify CAFAngga and my college to rage as one of those colleges that will be successful for this fiscal year.
For leaders, challenge of thoughtfully, purposefully, and effectively leading during a time of crisis is all encompassing. Being the Student Government President of CASE Department amidst this Pandemic and they so called “New Normal” is a big challenge for us, together with my co-officers Team 20-21. We had been encountering struggles and challenges, new things. That being said, being the president of the Student Government, I will act as a representative of the student body to the whole department. To characterize trust, courage, and quality of Decisions. Having a strong personal connection is everything. Get knowledge about the etiquettes in cyber word and online flatforms, being tech savvy and leading towards a distance communication. Promote advocacies that may encourage and inspire our students. And being there for my team is a big impact for the success of our student government.
NOURINE JOY E. YERRO college of accounting education
CCJE
VIBONIE A. MACALAM
college of architecture and fine arts education
CEE
How will you perform your duties as president in an online platform?
How will you perform your duties as president in an online platform?
It’s a little bit challenging for us especially the officers that we must perform our duties online, but we are still trying to give our best. As a president in our department, I have to motivate my co-officers to continue attending in everybody’s concern. Leading is not easy especially today that we are facing a pandemic but with the help of everyone, we will get through it all.
This is a very tough question, to be honest since I am traditional and antiquated [leader] so, shifting everything online is very new and complex. A monumental adjustment is just an understatement. However, I did not let myself become stagnant and static about it, instead, I unlearn and learn things, and everything comes to appease. Since, everything is online, I am available 20 hours a day and supervise the events well roundedly. It is about putting your mind in the right setting. So, as to how I will perform, I am not alone in this journey, together with my officers and staffers, we will do what is expected of us and will continue to outdo what we have done so far. We, the council, will perform to remember, and we will perform to leave a mark.
What is your message to your constituents? We, the new set of leaders will serve as a role model to all of you, specially to all freshmen. And with sincerity, we will do our very best to respond for all your concerns. We may be suffering a pandemic today, but it is not a hindrance to help you all.
NINORY S. MATA
college of criminal justice education
SHELDON ALLEN P. SALUTA
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING EDUCATION
RHEICY BIEN VALDEZ college of arts and sciences education
CHE
CBAE
CCE
How will you perform your duties as president in an online platform?
What programs and activities have you planned for your respective departments in this new normal?
I am not really into social media and I am not the type of person who enjoys the spotlight. I just work behind and as part of the people who work from behind curtains. Students often made statement such as “Kuya, you’re the vice-president pala?” because when they saw me in an event, I am just there working as the backbone. I do not want to be called as “President” although it is somehow appropriate because I want equality. I want fairness in the sense that no one is either above or below. In planning, I also want the decisionmaking to commence and to hear the ideas. Let us talk, let us make a debate and weigh the pros and cons.
CCE week/online talent competition. It is just like intramurals but in our department only. It is in here where talents and teamwork of everyone will be showcased as well as it will serve as our general assembly.
DENNIS CANUBAS
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION EDUCATION
CHSE
How will you perform your duties as president in an online platform? I will perform my duties by being always active and approachable to the students especially when there is any concern about our department. What is your message to your constituents? I’m looking forward for your cooperation and let’s work hard for the betterment of our department. Stay healthy and active.
Brix John Novasteras PHILBERT CONCON
COLLEGE OFcomputing COMPUTINGeducation EDUCATION COLLEGE OF
CTE
How will you perform your duties as president in an online platform?
How will you perform your duties as president in an online platform?
Well, I have been in the CHSE-CSG for three consecutive years now. When I was a freshman I was elected as vice president, then become an auditor on my second year, and now as the president and internal vicepresident of CCSG. At first, I thought these experiences would be sufficient for me to cope with the new normal, only to realize. In this new normal, with online platforms, the most effective way to govern is through communication. The common issues of students are the academic loads, the schedule inappropriateness, the behavior of their classmates and professors (in terms of disagreement and abuses), and they need someone close to the offices to resonate their voices and ask for formal and legal intervention, and I am that person, I will always be that person and I will use the best of my limit power to help them.
I think it was my destiny that I got elected this year because my strength is the utilization of social media applications. I can communicate more when it is thru online more than verbally or in a face-to-face situation to the point that I can also feel that my coofficers are already deaf because of my lengthy messages in our group chat. Online platform is my strength. In addition, I can perform my duty through promoting the CTE’S Facebook page to the students as always. I am always encouraging them to check the page if they need announcements and other information or might as well to message me directly. In fact, I received plenty of messages from the first years during the first day because of the LMS confusion. I even spent a week in helping and responding to their messages that it reached to the point that I was the one who operated their LMS accounts.
CHRISTIAN DALE DEMAIN
FREDERICK A. PRADAS
EDWELL VINCENT ROJAS
college of hospitality education
college of health and sciences education
How will you perform your duties as president in an online platform? Presidents are designed to help keep the college in order and to run smoothly. During this time of uncertainty, I would adhere of being committed and responsible to anything as to lift my reputation. Through this online platform, it would be their great source of information, learning materials and also to connect with people. What is your message to your constituents? My message would be padayon (continue). Padayon to inspire, to educate, to extend help and be the voice and to amplify that voice on behalf of the college and the students. We also have to remain motivated and committed despite of what’s happening. Moreover, we should unite as one.
college of teacher education
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The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao
infotainment
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game review
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SERIES review
ith over 3.1M views and 150,000 sales in the first 3 hours of its release, the latest single “曜 (SUNR1SE)” from the Chinese group R1SE gained a lot of overwhelmingly positive feedback from both Mainlanders and international fans. From their generic-yet-cool style of the song that did not tailor the group’s distinct style during their debuting album, this time, they are welcoming the light and have returned to tear the dark moment of dawn. The song uses light and jumping electronic sounds and mysterious and rhythmic elements of Morse codes, which adds a sense of maturity to the youthful spirit from its arrangement to its choreography. It does R1SE- SUNR1SE not only integrate it into the music as a timbre By Jaiben Lloyd A. Alabado instrument but also connects choreographic actions with it. The name “R1SE” is written in a code to convey the identity of fearless and courageous young men expressing the transformation and attitude of R1SE, incisively and vividly. The lyrics have a strong imagery, which makes people wonder the story about a teenager, the Earth, and the universe, breaking the code and walked with the light with the breaking of dawn. According to R1SE Vin Zhou, the leader and center of the group, their time is limited as a temporary boy group who are formed under the Tencent show ‘Produce Camp 2019’. They must show the world their individual vocal colors and styles. This moment is their most shining time, the light that broke the night is dawn, and dawn is sunrise, and the sunrise is R1SE. Any UMian can surely understand how the music translates to real life, and how to cherish the good times, especially if you have already a deadline in time. With this time limit, everyone can shine and create the best versions of themselves.
music review
he Princess Switch is a Christmas Netflix film released last November 16, 2018, directed by Michael Rohl. High School Musical’s Vanessa Hudgens starred in the movie, along with Sam Palladio and Nick Sagar. It also showed how versatile Hudgens was with her two facially identical roles but with different personalities. Stacy and Margaret are two girls with the same features but not related and living with two distinct worlds. Stacy is a baker from Chicago who wants to have a prince charming who will take her to the moon. Margaret is a Duchess who wants to be out from the royalties and be normal. However, things are changed when they met on the same trail, which will THE PRINCESS mark a tremendous change in their lives. SWITCH The film is naturally in a Christmas setting. It By Jose Maria Salvador has a historical touch in the early exposition N. Araullo of the movie, which later served as a bridge to connect the present’s happenings. Since it has a lot of life lessons to give, it is something that we should watch during this season for it let us realize how switching of roles can be destiny’s call in finding our true selves that marks who we are. Also, it enlightens us that the Christmas season is always about giving than receiving; a life that we cannot even imagine could exist that will eternally fuel ourselves. Furthermore, we UMians are already bombarded with many schoolworks and distressful moments during the pandemic. It’s time for us to breathe out and relax as we feel emotionally excited this Christmas, for we will witness Margaret and Stacy find their happiness and true love, which will also serve as a lesson for all of us.
movie review
I WISH...
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By Marielle Moner
mong Us is an intellectual game that is most fun when no one cheats and players being respectful and not overly paranoid. It is a game of 80% intelligence and 20% luck: with 80% intelligence of being crews and impostors and 20% luck with the voting chance of 8/10 total players in a single round. But this game gets dull and tedious as you practice all the tips and tricks. For example, being an impostor involves first clearing the camera room and successfully killing the players. And as a crewmate, they will quickly deduce impostors by sticking to the most trustworthy and safest player while watching others AMONG US do their job. By Edmalyn R. Canton An impostor can pretend to do the work, but if the impostor has completed the planned job and the taskbar has not been set up, crews can trap them. Or by completing a specific task, such as shooting meteors, the turret shooting animation can be seen when it is completed right because if the player completes the mission and the turrets don’t switch, he’s an impostor. Other tips include leaving two random players in the room and then coming back to see some kills made. Or for a more complicated approach left with four players in which one is an impostor, let the most suspect and trustworthy one stay in your group, thus allowing the 4th player to do his work. If the mission bar increases, the most suspicious in your group is the impostor, and vice versa. It is getting dull for me right now, believe me.
owadays, some of Thailand’s latest BL (Boys Loves Series) offerings have begun to be dull and bleak. Nevertheless, it is a good thing that we told the sunset about this dilemma. The sun finally shone brightly with hope as the new series, “I Told Sunset About You” (ITSAY), brought light to the world of BL fans. The love tale of Teh (Billkin) and Ohaew (PP) began when the same dream of being an actor had ripped their friendship when they were kids. Yet their paths collided again with resentment, as they expected to prepare for university exams. When they restore friendship and embrace each other, they keep ruminating about life and love that they haven’t seen it I TOLD SUNSET develop in a while. The plot lines of ITSAY ABOUT YOU showcased their dream-driven roles and the By Philip John Daguipa aspiration that could bind their viewers along the storyline and that there’s more to Teh and Oh-aew than just two boys in a love tale. It opens new possibilities to address a number of nuances in the coming-of-age series. It also looked at the difficulties of young adults, which are frequently taken for granted and used as incentives to build characters. From stunningly gorgeous cinematography, original musical score, and seamless editing, it went all the way to give ITSAY all the praises it deserves. After all, the series resonates to all of us in a way that we learn to embrace differences and knowing that even in the periods of our most turbulent situations as students, we always need someone to get by our side which reflects to one of our core values— teamwork.
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u-speak PRIMUM
The Official Student Publication of University of Mindanao
As someone who needs to make a plan not to get lost in this labyrinth called life, the pandemic seems like a set of traps and holes that undoubtedly makes me stumble and fall, and worse redirects me to a completely unknown void. I lost my job during the first few months of the lockdown, which entirely altered my plan as to how I should uphold my mere existence. I did convince myself that perhaps, it is a breather from working my fingers to the bone — to reevaluate my decisions in life and make some adjustments. But when the night was dead silent, the loudest scream that I could hear was my anxiety, saying I can do more than just watching series or reading books; that instead of burying her in the depths of hell, I should find a way to pull myself out from the rut. It was so exhausting to fight with your weakness, but the good thing is now, I gradually find my groove to go back on the track to endlessly strive and get out of this maze — to achieve better living conditions.
U-SPEAK! wil jane pesana 1st yr bs accountancy shaira panilag um alumnA (batch 2018) simon miles camanzo 3rd yr bs chemical engineering jaremiah sapong case department- professor helen grace alabado um alumnA (batch1990)
primum
How does the outbreak of the Covid-19 affect your life? primum
The coronavirus has changed on how the way I work, play, and learn. I often wish to stay at home before, but I never thought about how I love my freedom when the pandemic started. Right now, I am working at home, and honestly, it is affecting me socially, emotionally, and physically. Not being able to speak to friends and see people I see on a regular basis is hard for me. Looking on the brighter side, now that school is closed for the rest of the year, it gives me more time to be productive and to give time for myself. I may not be used to staying at home and working on my computer, but that does not mean I cannot do it. I am human, so I will learn to adapt. The pandemic may have paused our daily duties and routines, but that does not mean we will stop. Life goes on. Because of the outbreak, I find life worse as it was. It is because I must cope with isolation and lack of social interaction, also because it is harder to earn income. It also stressed me out because of online classes and some lessons are hard to understand alone. However, the outbreak also made me reflect on a lot of things, and it helped me become more productive. It does not affect my life significantly. However, my freedom has been limited since there are places I wanted to go for requisite and urgent transactions, but I cannot due to restrictions. I can say that I used to live a simple life when I was a kid, but this pandemic has caused me a lot of worries. Honestly, I am worrying a lot because it is hard to live with restrictions in all places that are outside my house. I am thinking about my two children who are being stranded away from us. I am worried about how to sustain the limited resources that we had. At this age, we need medicines and supplements to relieve the pain that we have. In summary, it is a hassle and daunting time of my life.
I created a space in my backyard for gardening, I learned how to cook the food I wanted to cook, and I had established a stronger relationship with the Lord through praying and reading the Gospel. As a public school elementary teacher, the Department of Education has issued us many webinars. Because of that, I am forcing myself to learn how to use gadgets correctly since we are working from home. I did learn it eventually without asking for any assistance from my children. As much as I do not want to accept this “new normal” lifestyle for some personal reasons, living with this kind of condition is the only way to keep my sanity.
simon miles
wil jane
shairah
How do you adapt to the “new normal” lifestyle?
It is a reminder to me that God has a purpose for why this thing happen. Also, time made me adapt to the changes. As time goes by, I just found myself adapting since I have no other choice.
jaremiah
If it is for the good of the people and it does not violate human rights, it is good for me. Although these laws might have taken a bit of our freedom, it does not take the fact that it is for our safety. I am just hoping that their implemented laws will reflect effective actions against the pandemic.
I learn to look on the brighter side of life, such as doing the things I could not do before. Now, I can give more time reading my books, focusing on my thesis paper, binge-watching, giving extra and more effort to my lessons, and sleeping late at its finest!
wil jane
helen grace
shairah
I honestly think that wearing face masks and face shields, curfew hours, and physical distancing are such best ways to fight the pandemic. But, I felt it is too much when the government specifically, Davao City, implemented the QR codes. I find communication and strategic planning very poor. The transmission on how to acquire, where to use, and eligible individuals to obtain QR codes was not clear. On the other hand, the seniors are having a hard time accessing due to their technological restrictions.
jaremiah
If these laws being implemented aim to plummet the Covid-19 cases in an instant, then their goal is excellent. It is those hard-headed people who would violate the law, even if they already know anything that is against the quarantine laws, are subject to imprisonment. Maybe the government’s implementation is adequate, but it lacks more conviction to have an impactful non-tolerance intensity.
helen grace
To deal with this intangible adversary, the only way to contain its rapid escalation is to implement laws and regulations to somehow control the movement of people within the vicinity wherein the virus is existing. But that now begs the question, “how would such regulation supervise people if they are not well executed on the ground?” We cannot argue the fact that the city government only aims to contain the virus that cripples not only our healthcare system but also our economy. But the way they implemented their executive and administrative orders has confused its constituents. Indeed, there was no vague order in the guidelines as the provisions were stated [though some of it are open to question], but checkpoint personnel who are administering these protocols should be on the same page so that they will be able to address the people’s concern regarding this matter and to penalize the violators fairly. In the end, we all want to go back to how our lives used to be before this crisis ruined everything.
jaremiah I stand negatively against the implemented laws during this pandemic because the government seems like overreacting to the pandemic. As a Christian, I know this is their initial step to control the people and get ready for the worse time coming soon.
The first months of the new normal was a hassle, but after a couple of weeks, I started getting used to it. Instead of worrying about what I lost because of the pandemic, I began to focus on productive things like harnessing my skills, learning new things, and watching entertainment that makes me happy. simon miles
primum helen grace
simon miles
What is your stand about the laws implemented in Davao City during this pandemic? primum
shairah
wil jane
Thank you very much for answering our questions. Your answers will reflect on how people adapt the new lifestyle and how people of different ages adjust to this disastrous pandemic.