The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao Volume X, No. 1 August - December 2021
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PRIMUM Upholding knowledge through information
UM Celebrates its 75th Anniversary Online
by Michaelangelo C. Soriano
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75 YEARS IN THE MAKING. UM celebrates its founding anniversary.
n July 30, 2021, the University of Mindanao did not hold back celebrating another year of success amid the pandemic as UM celebrates its 75th foundation day online. The University of Mindanao commemorates another life of affordable and quality education by honoring quality standards. Logistics did its best through excellent planning, teamwork, and proper ...continue to Page 2
news
UM, DACUN Ramp Up Vax Drive
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editorial
feature
infotainment
sports
Youth Voters 2022: The Rise of Game Changers
Weirdest Job: How Far Would You Go to Make Money?
See You Again (Song Review)
Mindanao: Land of Filipino Olympians
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UM Health-Allied Students Attend Classes on Campus
ranted with the Cer tificate of Authority to conduct physical classes, the University of Mindanao College of Health Sciences Education successfully sent off six MedTech and 19 Nursing senior students to the University for their limited face-toface classes, which started last September 28 and October 11, 2021, respectively, for each program. “I was so happy and excited seeing my classmates again,” Ms. Mariel Manzanilla, a 4th year nursing student, expressed during an exclusive interview. Before the scheduled classes started, the students provided their PhilHealth card, Barangay certification, Parent/Guardian’s consent, Vaccination card stating that they were given anti-COVID jabs with complete doses, and their negative COVID-19
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by Jana Meg M. Lendio
test results. The University complied with the guidelines and requirements as per CHED-DOH Joint Memorandum Circular No. 2021-001. “It was so unusual at first because we’re used to being near our classmates on campus,” Manzanilla confessed. However, the University’s guidelines must be followed to ensure safety in their designated classrooms. Three days of the week are allotted for limited face-to-face classes, followed by a required 10-day quarantine before attending the following school days. As a non-Davao resident, Ms. Donna Caga, a Nursing student, expressed in an exclusive interview how safety guidelines should be strictly followed even after the classes, leading some students like her to rent a room near the campus. “It’s just a mat-
ter of being extra careful and vigilant about the protocols against COVID-19,” she added. With the University’s facilities, the students have finally experienced the top-notch medical equipment provided for practical learning. “Some of the equipment that we use for our return demon-
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I was so happy and excited seeing my classmates again
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UM Produces Fourteen Topnotchers
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by Sunday Shane Lorraine M. Ferrer
ourteen alumni of the University of Mindanao made it to the top ten of the August to November licensure and assessment examinations this year. The College of Engineering Education (CEE) produced topnotchers in the name of Alec Christian Cervantes, who placed seventh, with a rating of 88.35% in the August 2021 Mechanical Engineering Licensure Examination, and Maruel Jade Christian Alidon, who earned the ninth spot, with 91% rating in the November 2021 Civil Engineering Licensure Exam. Meanwhile, four graduates from the College of Teacher Education (CTE) topped the September 2021 Licensure Examination for Teachers (Secondary Level). Norelyn Sumbo Legara grabbed the third rank with a rating of 92.80%; Kenneth Alfonso
Regis ranked fourth with a rating of 92.40%; Donald Joseph Ybias Medija placed ninth with 91.40% rating; and Quinnie Nifcille Cortal Dalnay was the Top 10 with 91.20% rating. Also, three graduates from the College of Computing Education (CCE) joined top examinees across the country in the September 2021 Librarian Licensure Examination. Irish Jill Duqueza placed fifth with a rating of 86.70%; Ynna Francesca Javier Pidor got the ninth place with 86.10%; and Samuel Vicente Refugio Jr. took tenth place with a rating of 85.15%, respectively. In the same month, three topnotchers from the College of Business Administration Education (CBAE) took the Real Estate Appraiser Licensure Examination, where Eloisa Monique P. Yepez placed fourth ...continue to Page 3
PRIMUM
2 News The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao from page 1 UM 75th Anniversary utilization of technology. The 75th foundation day program was held on Zoom Conference and livestreamed online through Facebook and YouTube with one-thousand participants. In the event, various employees, offices, colleges, and branches were awarded and recognized. Also, employees of the University and its branches enjoyed the highly anticipated friendly competition per zones, such as K-pop dance cover, Tiktok videos, and the lucky winners of the online raffle draw. Moreover, as part of the celebration of the University of Mindanao’s 75th founding anniversary, a Community Pantry was set up at the main gate in Gravahan for residents in the area to get the essential goods they need. The University of Mindanao has made a significant impact in both national and international because of growing relations and contributions. Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, and Senator Joel Villanueva honored and thanked the University of Mindanao’s contribution to education because of the University’s affordable, quality, and open education. In addition, the Universiti Teknologi Malaysia and the University Kebangsaan Malaysia congratulated the University of Mindanao for their lasting overseas friendship and partnership. The University of Mindanao President Guillermo P. Torres Jr. delivered his address thanking the contributions and efforts of each University staff, teaching and non-teaching department, for their commitment and dedication despite working in the middle of the pandemic. The president also highlighted the University’s adoption and utilization of Open LMS and Student Portal as a very convenient tool for students and teachers in conducing online classes. Moreover, Prof. Marianne Afrondoza, the head of the Office of Student Affairs, stated ‘Excellent Leadership’ is the reason why the University lasted for 75 years and will continue to do so. She added,
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Canubas, Andrada: The Newly Elected CCSG and CSO President
Photo Courtesy: UM Official YouTube Channel
“The founding fathers of UM have been true to their commitment to providing excellent quality education to all its stakeholders. This has been cascaded to the current UM management headed by Dr. Guillermo P. Torres Jr., who fosters quality, affordable, open education that makes UM distinctive from the rest of the HEIs.” Furthermore, Professor Afrondoza revealed the reasons of the University’s consistency to quality education. “It is because of UM’s consistent implementation of its policies aiming for the highest standard of instruction, research, and extension service. UM has submitted itself to rigorous PACUCOA accreditation, annual ISO visit and accreditation, and other CHED accreditation for autonomous status. These are what make the University consistent in providing quality education.” The virtual celebration was marked successful as the University continually strives for excellence and fulfills its mission and vision as one of the leading higher academic institutions in Southern Mindanao from this year and the years to come.
MANIFESTATIONS OF THE DIAMOND IN ROUGH. Not only the diamond celebration of the University of Mindanao's excellence and affordable education were seen and emphasized by the head of the State and the public officials through video greetings, but also the efforts and the contributions of the people behind the strong foundation within 75 years were highlighted by the University president.
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obscurity of the CSO is due to the or this new academic year, Dennis Canubas has lack of cooperation and teamwork be been elected as the new tween organizations. He further addpresident of the Council of Col- ed that it is necessary to spread the lege Student Government (CCSG). message that no one is alone in their Meanwhile, the newly elected pres- initiatives and members are ready to ident of the Council of Student Or- help in other organizations’ plans. In dealing with present ganizations (CSO) is Noel Andrada. Due to the current circumstances, and future issues while incorpoboth elections were held online. rating past experiences, Canubas When asked about what expressed, “Those challenges that happened during the virtual elec- I’ve encountered made me realize tions, Canubas said that his success that it is important not just to setas the president was unexpected. He tle but plan everything before to was nominated for the position of the make a move. The past will help presidency during their Google Meet. to cope with the present challengAlthough Canubas wanted to decline es and even to the future issues.” From Andrada’s perspecthe nomination, his internet connec- tion failed, and he could not state his tive, his rich experiences being a reasons. “Then after, I was elected as former officer of many organizathe President of CCSG. On my part, tions will reinforce his ability to it is a pleasure yet a big challenge for manage multiple quasi-independent me because the pressure, responsi- groups. His experiences include bebilities, and the commitment were ing a member of the Confederation there that I should take it seriously of Filipino Youth Leaders and the with compassion,” Canubas said. Leadership Initiative for Partnership More For the CSO election, An- Advocacy Development. drada said that there were no can- over, during his high school, he exdidates and was asked by previous perienced being the Chief Project officers to accept the offer to be the Implementer of a project by JCI president. Andrada did not turn down Davao and the City Ant-Drug Abuse the recommendation and was sucfrom page 1 cessfully elected by a majority vote Classes on Campus during the assembly. “I did not expect to be elected to any post in the council, knowing well that I am an underdog in the campus, being a mere Second Year student who is still at the dawn of establishing my own name in the university,” Andrada added. The two newly elected presidents were also asked about their expected challenges in their respective position. Canubas responded that encouraging student participation and coordinating officers on their planned competitions and events might be challenging due to the current pandemic. OFF SCREEN OPERATION. Relief and On the other hand, Andrada happiness were expressed by those who firstly encountered the new and limited setting of stated that the collaboration between onsite learning in the University of Mindanao organizations would be the hardest fueled by the facilities and apparatus, after part. According to him, the present years of shifting to online classes.
UM Holds Third Virtual Graduation
he Batch 2021 has grit. Af ter more than a year of navigating through the COVID-19 pandemic, the candidates for graduation of the graduate, undergraduate, and legal education programs of the University of Mindanao marched virtually in the 75th Commencement Exercises held last September 29, 2021. This was the third time the ceremony was conducted virtually and was live-streamed on the University’s official YouTube Channel. Dr. Guillermo P. Torres Jr., the University President, formally opened the commencement exercise and delivered a message to the graduates. “Despite the difficult times brought by this pandemic, you have finished your studies, persevered, and obtained the degree that makes you very admirable and model of young Filipinos.” It was then followed by the awarding of institutional and achiev-
by Vanessa Antao
ers’ awardees and academic honors. This year’s institutional awardees and commencement speakers were Regional Director Rodel M. Calo, the Regional Director of the National Police Commission XII, and Undersecretary Flor Lorio-Amate of the Department of Trade and Industry. Dr. Ronnie V. Amorado, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs, then read the citation for the achiever’s award bestowed to Engr. Alec Christian Cervantes, who placed Top 7 in the Licensure Examination for 2021 Mechanical Engineering. Dr. Amorado also read the citation for the awarding of academic honors. The batch of 2021 produced three cum laude from the Bachelor of Arts Major in Mass Communication and one academic excellence awardee from the Bachelor of Science in Accountancy. On the other hand, Dr. Eugenio S. Guhao Jr., EVP/ Chief Academic Officer, read the citation for the ‘Honor to parents’,
Upholding knowledge through information
by Adrian Kenneth G. Nervida
which was followed by the presentation of ‘Bulak sa Pasasalamat’ by Brianne Josua Calungsod, Bachelor of Science in Accountancy, academic excellence awardee, and his mother, Mrs. Victoria C. Calungsod. Furthermore, Simplicio Daroy Jr., the cum laude of the Bachelor of Arts Major in Mass Communication, delivered the ‘Salute to Faculty’ in their honor. The Deans of the different colleges presented the candidates for graduation, indicating the graduates’ success. This year’s graduation season has a unique meaning for those students receiving degrees after a significant amount of remote learning, mask-wearing, and limited, if not non-existent, human interaction with other students and teachers. While the globe was still dealing with the effects of the COVID-19 virus, the Class of 2021 demonstrated persistence in overcoming obstacles and finishing strong.
strations are high-tech centrifuge, autoclave, incubators, refrigerators, microscopes, and more. Also, the physical setup of the laboratory is designed for biosafety and biosecurity,” Mr. Joey Ramos, a senior MedTech student, elaborated during an interview, sharing the array of apparatus in the University’s newly-built Medical Technology laboratory. “There is a need for us to indulge in various laboratory procedures to hone our skills,” Ramos added, appreciating the opportunity of live classes with their professors in the U n i v e r s i t y . With the University’s efforts to provide quality education to mold excellent future health workers,
Council. “This has given me knowledge on how to communicate and have good relations with different sectors. All of these experiences will surely be of good use in my term and administration,” Andrada explained. As part of their plans, both presidents conveyed their vision for the current academic year. Canubas discussed his plans to conduct events such as the Grand Culminating Event Collaboration by CCSG and CSO, Gahum (e-games), College Culture Talk, Advocacies, and other school activities. Meanwhile, Andrada answered that their plans include an inter-organizational week-long celebration of talent and skills, a leadership conference, and expanding the CSO by engaging in a partnership with another university for a national forum. Additionally, the CSO will cooperate with the External Relations and International Affairs Office and CCSG for a grand culmination event showcasing the achievements of different student organizations. For their final message, Canubas stated, “To all my fellow constituents and officers, I am excited and feeling grateful for this great year to serve and bond with you guys.” At the same time, Andrada exclaimed, “To all member-organizations, know that the UM Council of Student Organizations is yours. Claim it. We, your duly elected officials, are yours as well. As we embark on a new academic year, assure yourselves that we will listen to your concerns, we will provide you with the leverages to promote the objectives of your organizations.” Both presidents are hopeful for a united and fruitful academic year with the different student organizations of the University. the students meet its standards through the new learning setup, overcoming its set of challenges distinct from the traditional face-to-face setting. “There is a limited interaction between peers unlike before, but then, it is not a hindrance for us to learn and continue studying as we are aiming to be successful nurses soon,” Manzanilla affirmed. “We are still in the adjustment period, however, respond ing to these changes is worth it because I know that at the end, what matters is that we learn and we are trained,” Ramos expressed. The new setup is a significant yet positive change intheir academic journey. The fu- ture frontline workers are brought to the University to concretize the medical theories and principles learned during their online classes. “Though there are restrictions, we will continue to study knowing that we are safe inside the University,” Manzanilla assured. Photo Courtesy: UM DAYON
HEROES WELCOME, HEROES STRIVE. In the efforts of getting back to where it should be happening, the University of Mindanao catered six Medical Technologists and 19 Nursing senior students in the limited face to face operations of the Allied Health Courses.
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UM, DACUN Ramp Up Vax Drive
astening Davao city’s vaccination rollout, the University of Mindanao (UM)-Bolton Campus has been tapped to serve as one of the vaccination hubs in the city. The vaccination drive was intended for the employees of UM together with the Davao Colleges and Universities Network (DACUN) member schools who belong in the A2, A3, and A4 categories or those senior citizens, persons with comorbidities, and individuals who work in the academe sector, respectively. and was live-streamed on the University’s official YouTube Channel. According to UM Vax Hub Report, a total of 1,665 personnel and volunteers were vaccinated during the first rollout last June 26 to July 6. During the second rollout scheduled last July 24 to August 3, 1,613 personnel and volunteers were vaccinated. One of UM employees, Marie Hancel Susbrado, believes that vaccination serves as protection, not only for her but for the people around her. “The vaccines are a great help. It may not give assurance that from page 1 Fourteen Topnotchers with a rating of 86.50%; Shierra Pearl A. Mendoza placed sixth with a rating of 85.50%; and Froilan C. Jamias placed tenth with a rating of 83.50%, respectively. From the same college, Lyndon S. Payot landed on the ninth spot of the October 2021 Human Resource Educators’ Association of the Philippines, Inc. Assessment Examination with a rating of 86.25%. On the other hand, Rylle G. Añuber from the College of Arts and Sciences Education (CASE) placed tenth in the October 2021 Forester Licensure Examination with a rating of 89.60%. The challenges before taking the exam were never easy, according to the topnotchers. “I was most challenged at the aspect of mental health, overthinking most especially. Secondly, I was also challenged financially. I just graduated, so I immediately prepared for it, but it got moved several times. As time went by, I have been carrying the growing burden of financial burden not to me only but to my family as well,” said REALE Top 6, Shierra Mendoza. But she found a way. “So around half this year, I finally applied as a customer service representative at a BPO company. The pay’s great,” she added, enough to sustain their family needs and her needs for the exam. LLE Top 9, Ynna Pidor also shared her struggle before she took the licensure examination. “I had a lot on my plate during the preparation for the licensure exam. At first, we were required to be quarantined for 14 days before the exam day, and also we needed to submit a Certificate of Quarantine signed by a registered nurse or doctor.” “I had a lot on my plate during the preparation for the licen sure exam. At first, we were required to be quarantined for 14 days before the exam day, and also we needed to submit a Certificate of Quarantine signed by a registered nurse or doctor.” Observing the standard
by Edmalyn R. Canton
you will not be infected anymore, but at least it can help you not to be seriously ill,” Susbrado added. Similarly, Rodrigo Garcia, a UM Physical Education instructor hopes that vaccines will be the way for us to return to normalcy, especially in the education sector wherein students and teachers achieve a friendlier, healthier, and quality learning environment. “I decided to be vaccinated for the safety of my family, especially for my child,” Garcia further told. He also encouraged his colleagues in the University to grab the chance to be vaccinated to be ensured and protected against the virus. On the other hand, the UM-Matina Campus served as the vaccination venue for the ‘Vacc2Normal’ vaccination pro gram spearheaded by ICT Davao Inc. last September 10-12, 2021. On November 19, the UM vaccination hub in Bolton Campus finally opened its doors for the general public, particularly vaccinees aged 12-17 years old and adult vaccinees. They were able to accomguidelines on the strict health protocols in the licensure examinations during the COVID-19 pandemic is deemed necessary. Examinees are required to present negative results of their RT-PCR test taken 3-5 days before the scheduled exam. It made Pidor worry, overthinking that she might get a positive test result even though she stayed in their house. “Even through my worries, I was relieved to see that my results came back negative, and it gave me the courage to do well on the exam,” she said in relief. This alone increases their expenses during their preparation for the upcoming licensure examination. Yet, they never forget to look on the brighter side. “My family helped me boost my confidence. The pandemic had a big effect on our preparation for the board exams. The cancellation of other board exams and transfer of exam venues distracted me in my studying,” MELE Top 7, Alec Cervantes stated. Without his supportive family, he would not achieve this feat as he was already thinking of withdrawing from the exam. However, his family encouraged him to pursue taking the exam. Furthermore, Mendoza leans upon faith to overcome her life trials, especially in taking the exam. “Grace is there, always there actually, but I knew I had to work on myself as well. The first step is to look ahead onto the light at the end of the tunnel,” she said, referring to the tunnel as her journey. Lastly, Pidor encourages all aspiring licensed professionals to continue doing the things that spark their hearts. “There are so many things to see, to discover in your own field. None of us start at the very top, we always start at the bottom, and because of this, we get to see a lot more. Embracing your profession would only make your life easier, and you get to enjoy what life has to offer. Always look on the bright side of life and keep moving forward,” she further advised.
Photo Courtesy: Center for Health Services
ROAD TO HERD IMMUNITY. Besides adult vaccination, pediatric vaccination has already begun among 12 to 17 years old.
modate 306 individuals on that day. The University’s gymnasium structure is an ideal venue for a mass vaccination operation, with wide-open spaces and ventilation. The area around the gym also allows for more space for vaccinees who will have to wait for their turn to get inoculated.
UM’sYoungScientistBags Green Talents Awards
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by Maraiah Loe Abello
he Director of CGNIES at the Universi ty of Mindanao was one of the 2021 awardees of a prestigious international competition for young scientists hosted by the German government. Dr. Chosel Lawagon is a Director at the Center for Green Nanotechnology Innovations for Environmental Solutions (CGNIES) at the University of Mindanao. Dr. Lawagon managed to be one of the selected twenty-five participants by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) out of the 467 applicants from 78 countries. “It is highly competitive, and I honestly did not expect to be selected as one of the Green Talents 2021 cohorts. The challenge is presenting research projects related to sustainable development that greatly benefit the community”, Dr. Lawagon shared. She showcased her outstanding idea about upcycling waste through nanotechnology in the “Green Talents – International Forum for High Potentials in SustainPhoto Courtesy: Philippine Embassy in Germany
UM PRIDE. The University's very own CGNIES Director, Dr. Chosel Lawagon in the Green Talents, and international competition for young scientists.
able Development,” featuring thecommitted young scientists fostering sustainability in their community. Nanotechnology is now one of the great modes of transforming wastes (agricultural and plastic) into structural health mon-itoring and wastewater treatment. Upcycling of waste using this smart strategic method supporting longterm solid waste management. Furthermore, she added to her written interview that she is grateful to the Department of Science and Technology and the University of Mindanao for their research projects in the CGNIES. According to Dr. Lawagon, as CGNIES Director, “It enables me to pursue several projects related to sustainable development.” Moreover, she added that the center’s research trajectory promotes green innovations in Mindanao, a solution that cares for both the environment and humanity. Leading the CGNIES research group is a joy and fulfilling endeavor. Dr. Lawagon participated in the virtual Green Talents Science Forum as a Green Talents Awardee, which provided her and her fellow recipients insight into Germany’s sustainability research environment. She will spend three months in Germany next year researching at a German partner university of her choice. “Water security, especially in areas near a landfill site,” is another project concerning the promotion of environmental sustainability Dr. Lawagon has in her bright mind. It is to monitor water contaminants to ensure the survival of life.
Republic Act 11313 (Safe Spaces Act): The Guardian Against Modern Sexual Harassment
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n 2019, President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law the Republic Act No. 11313, also known as Safe Spaces Act. Initially, during the legislative process of the act, it was known as the Anti-Bastos law. The primary purpose of this law is to create a new anti-sexual harassment law better equipped to face the challenges posed in modern society. The Philippines already had similar legislation, Republic Act No. 7877 or the Anti Sexual Harassment Act of 1995. According to the old law, the scope of sexual harassment only involved people with the moral high ground or moral ascendancy in an institution like school or workplace. Moral ascendancy means people come from a place of authority with significant power over a group of people. Only sexual harassment cases from people like teachers, managers, superiors, principals, and proprietors are covered by RA. 7877. However, with the implementation of the Safe Spaces Act, any form of (a) wolf-whistling, (b) catcalling, (c) intrusive gazing, (d) cursing, (e) bothersome requests for personal details, and (f) undesirable remarks
by Adrian Kenneth G. Nervida
on appearance from anyone can be punishable. Also, any misogynistic, homophobic, transphobic, or sexist statements shall have their due penalty. Public spaces recognized by the law includes transportation, offices, workplace, institutions, restaurants, recreational areas, or any building open to the public, shall be punishable by law. People with moral ascendancy are still enclosed under the Safe Spaces Act but with an automatically higher degree of punishment. Another improvement of the Safe Spaces Act over the old law is preventing sexual harassment in online places. Gender-based online sexual harassment incorporates: (a) terrorizing through the use of communications technology, emotional threats, (b) undesirable gender-based sexual remarks both private and public messages, (c) incessant messaging, (d) sharing sexual media content from the victim without permission, (e) unauthorized recording and sharing photos or videos from the video online, (f) online impersonation, (g) unwarranted information sharing online, (h) any posts about lies to damage the victim’s reputation, and (i) intentional false reports to prevent victims from speaking out.
In the case of implementation, national government agencies, local government units, and private authorities (business owners) are mandated to continually observe and maintain the place free of gender-based sexual harassment. The actual victim does not also need to be the one to file the report as any authorized individual can represent the victim. For educational institutions, the school heads can take away the perpetrator’s diploma or be expelled. While in workplaces, the employers have the task of having their measure of sexual harassment prevention and punishment and maintaining confidentiality when reporting and investigating the case. Both the workplace and educational institutions shall disseminate information about the prevention of sexual harassment and experience random inspections from various government agencies to assure that compliance to this law is still being observed. Furthermore, in adherance to the principles of RA No. 11313 - Safe Spaces Act, this will be indicated in the revision of the University Student Handbook for the school year 2022-2023.
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4 E d ito r i a l The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao
YOUTH VOTERS 2022: THE RISE OF GAME CHANGERS
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he 2022 election took center stage in the Philippines, gathering all eyes and ears from Filipino youth who earnestly assessed whether political partisans would triumph despite the divergent political views amo ng the citizens. In the 21st century, young Filipinos’ governmental perspectives heighten the rise of media literacy — acquiring the ability to redefine traditional Philippine political ideologies. As of July 2021, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) estimated that 52% of the Filipino registered voters are youth between 18-40 years old, comprising a whopping total of 31.41 million out of 60.46 million voters in the country. With the upper hand in the voting system, Filipino youth should use it as a powerful tool in uncovering political dilemmas ruling the Philippine governance for decades. Choosing the right candidate must live within each moral conscience for the common good and lie beneath wise voting. Shifting the game in politics through youth’s inevitable resilience synchs with the changing world’s perspective. Filipino youth do not concur with the notion of traditional political beliefs. They even assembled their own army, which will compel ‘decisive force’ to this upcoming 2022 election. 1Sambayan Youth is at the forefront of this movement which sets one’s sights on electing the presidential candidate who is professional, trustworthy, and committed to the wellbeing of young Filipinos. 1Samabayan Youth presents 11-points youth agenda with the assistance of the following youth organizations: Rise for Education, Millennials PH, Innovative Youth Movement, KATRIBU National, Youth Strike 4 Climate, We The Future PH, Student Christian Movement of the Philippines, PANTAY, and College Editors’ Guild of the Philippines. The battle of 1Sambayan Youth is unwinnable without alliances; the agenda’s formation was with the reinforcement and deliberation of other youth organizations. The appeal of “political brands cannot blindfold the youngsters.” The 1987 Philippine Constitution, written on Article II section 26, “… prohibits political dynasties as may be defined by law.” According to the statistics, no less than 70% of the house of representatives are dynastic, wherein the house bill no. 110, anti-political dynasty bill has not been passed in the Congress for ten years. This has been an alarming issue in Philippine politics since most elected presidents in the 21st century are offspring of political dynasties (e.g., Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, Benigno Aquino III, and Rodrigo Duterte). Alloy Claudio, an associate professor at De La Salle University in Manila, said voters strongly supported pro-administration politicians. While political dynasties may not allure to the youth, it still achieves sustained competitive advantage. Flipping the other card that switched the significance of credibility into popularity in the Philippine politics─ flipped out by the Filipino youth. The actors, singers, comedians, and news anchors are commonly elected to public office in the Philippines. In the 2016 election alone, 44 celebrities from the entertainment industry ran for national or local office. As listed by Philippine News, as of October 08, 2021, four celebrities wanted to run in the National office, six in the Senate, and nine in the House of Representatives. It can be magnified that this has been a tradition in Philippine politics, where prominent personalities are advantageous in winning an election that does not charm most young people based on 1Sambayan Youth, Renee Co per se. The issues circulating Philippine politics are unveiled through the youth’s digital competencies, which help in myriad outspreading information. The coalition of youth organizations and movements is just one of their steps to elevate. These aspirant youth may make a difference in next year’s national elections by opening cans of worms surrounding Philippine politics and becoming the game changers of this upcoming 2022 election.
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Kim Mingrue
UPHOLDING KNOWLEDGE T H R O U G H I N F O R M AT I O N VOLUME X, NO.1 AUGUST - DECEMBER 2021
Rhett Angelo G. Belonio
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF r.belonio475914@umindanao.edu.ph
EDITORIAL BOARD AND STAFF Academic Year 2021-2022
Editor-in-Chief: RHETT ANGELO BELONIO Associate Editor: JOSE MARIA SALVADOR ARAULLO
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MARIANNE P. AFRONDOZA 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.
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illustration by Renee C. Ang-ug
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The Only Exception
fter almost two years of having a love-hate re lationship with our learning setup—online class—mulling over the implementation of face-to-face classes, our classroom doors are finally within our reach. But is it really worth the risk? Since the rise and threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries worldwide have decided to shut down schools temporarily that have significantly made a huge impact to the students. With this, the government has developed guidelines to implement strategies for the education sector to continue its operation. At the same time, the safety of the students from being infected by the disease is guaranteed. After almost two years, pivoting to online and modular distance learning delivery of instruction consequently throws us to the pit where most of the students have been facing a learning crisis and where most of us are exposed to the vulnerabilities of this alien setup. Let’s say no amount of trial and error could make us accustomed to the introduced alternatives. Being physically present in school and having a real-time learning experience and environment with our classmates and teachers are incomparable to the semblance of normalcy that synchronous classes bestow upon us. Fortunately, last September, the President approved the pilot implementation of face-to-
face classes in low-risk areas. Both DepEd and CHED have been very hands-on in materializing the plans, working closely with the concerned agencies to mark the pilot attempt successful. Only selected public and private schools under DepEd and degree programs in college were allowed to conduct a pilot run last November, considering that the specific conditions set by the authorities were met. Nonetheless, doubts and hesitancy among the public are expressed whether the country is ready to take risks despite being regarded as one of the countries with the longest and strictest lockdowns globally. Primarily, last October, our university was just one of the schools in the country that opened its doors for allied health courses to conduct limited face-to-face classes. It is safe to say that it turns out successful as DOH reports a meager infection rate among students and teachers. Now that higher education institutions are reopening face-to-face classes for all degree programs, they must have carefully and deliberately planned ways to guarantee the safety of the students, teachers, and other school personnel. The planning, execution, and operation of health protocols and guidelines in schools must be backed up by factual data from health authorities. Participating schools must have prepared the necessary documents between
the institution and the parents to arrive at a consensus in participating in the pilot implementation. Students should not be forced, nor parents be uninformed. No party should be coerced in the conduct of the limited face-to-face classes. Moreover, since CHED has been eyeing to run limited faceto-face classes in low-risk areas and higher vaccination rates, it is expected that employees and faculty have been vaccinated. On the other hand, a vaccination program should be put up for the college students for those who have not yet been vaccinated to ensure that the vaccination rate for students is high. Also, schools and administrators should be stern and keen in adhering to the health and safety standards set by the health authorities, especially for the possible resurgence of the COVID-19 that will transpire within the school community. Hence, non-pharmaceutical interventions should be strictly observed, such as hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette; physical distancing; use of masks in schools; environmental cleaning and ventilation; and respecting proper procedure and coordination for possible cases. However, despite the green signal in conducting face-to-face classes, the reopening of the school should only be limited. The number of students per class shall not exceed 25. Class schedules should be appro... continue to Page 5
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O p i ni o n 5
The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao
from page 4 The Only Exception
priately crafted and well-coordinated to minimize the loitering of students along with public spaces. A blended learning approach, which consists of face-to-face classes in school and distance learning modalities, is also a good start, enough to test the waters. Furthermore, options for continued utilization of online and modular distance learning shall be made available for medically vulnerable students or those who prefer to continue studying at home. It should be recognized
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he emergence of stand points built solely on ig norance and apathy are the very reason why we continue to shelve ourselves into self-delusion, of refusing to realize the obvious, and worse, the primary conveyors of false information. We should not become adept at concealing the mad streak that the country has been tied to for so long. Without apportioning blame to those worthy of it or recognizing system inadequacies that existed—which some prevail still—there will be no realization of amends needed to ensure that the future is in good hands. After all, what is the future without learning from the past? With that, educational institutions should emphasize the importance of certain historical occurrences in their students’ minds. And
Mikaela Maria B. Saniatan FEATURE WRITER m.saniatan.478546@umindanao.edu.ph
The Importance of Historical Emphasis in the Academe although the past is past, our knowledge of it will stand as the foundation on which the country’s future is built. It will help us understand how and why the citizens in the society, even the country as a whole, are ushered into conditions they are currently in. Without context and starting points, how will we be able to comprehend things and take constructive actions? Educational institutions
should not be like a part-time jail for students—with pens in hand— sleep-walking their way through life. Education has the power to cure ignorance—the root of all this madness—and shape students into individuals who can make a difference. Knowledge encourages citizens’ minds to be responsible and accountable to their country and fellow citizens. Thus, it is up to these institu-
tions to transform a commonplace into something remarkable. This, by giving students an avenue to engage in active learning, such as providing various hands-on opportunities, stimulating critical minds, and encouraging them to generate alternatives that would prompt benevolent societies. The knowledge we acquire today—worthwhile or not— significantly affects the generations
Antsy
Francis M. Barbosa Jr. LITERARY EDITOR f.barbosa.@umidnanao.edu.ph
Black, White, Grayscale World must examine their actions and the intentions behind said action and judge them accordingly. We are all humans. We are bound to make mistakes now and then. We cannot box people in labels and prevent them from being more than their mistakes.
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n our nation’s history, some moments fix for us a tide of turning and redirection when it moves irrevocably into a new course and bravely ventures into the future. The birth of a new republic is a turning point as the government envisions a change from the colonial past, from dictatorship, and through trial and error. The crises and trials of our country have pointed repeatedly to the government’s helplessness to cope with the national development goals. We have suffered from the failure of our democratic government to make democratic government work and prosper in our land. ... and the interval of crisis in our midst opens the eyes of our people to rally behind a vision of change amidst the grim realities! When the 20th century began, hopes were that science, education, and the rule of reason would usher in a new era of peace and harmonious relations between and among nations. Yet, alongside these
that everything will be on the place. We will never be back to the old normal, as COVID-19 permanently reshaped the whole education landscape. We may be uncertain of what our education’s future holds, but the pilot run next year would be our window to test how ready we are for face-to-face learning. It would let us determine how far our government would exhaust all means in moving forward and achieving the success of this endeavor while
Ave Maria
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f you’ve been on the inter net for as long as I have, you’ve probably heard of the phrase “I’d rather be on the right side of history.” From fiction to real life, we actively seek out “good” and “bad” in the story. In literature, it’s easier to spot because we work with what the author gives its readers. Real-life, on the other hand, doesn’t share this privilege. The real world is a little bit different. We aren’t omniscient nor omnipresent. In real life, there is no such thing as absolute good and evil. What lies in replacement are desires and actions. Desires drive actions or vice-versa. Unlike in fiction, we cannot label a person as good or bad. We
that not all students would risk going out to study amidst the continuous threats of the COVID 19, regardless of the low transmission status. The Philippine education may have been on a hot seat for years, even labeled as those who turn a blind eye to the rotting system— their response may have been compared to a turtle’s pacing—but if anything, the leaders of the education sector should really have enough amount of time to settle all the necessary steps to ensure
So, what should we do? In my opinion, we should never idolize anyone in our lives. We cannot blindly follow anyone and put our faith in their hands. No one is perfect in this world. It is irresponsible and ignorant to excuse their shortcomings and
defend their actions, primarily when it affects a large portion of people’s lives. We should always hold those in power accountable no matter who they are and what party they represent. If people are willing to accept their mistakes, then we shouldn’t
Kryzl Beautiful You Kryzl Laureanne M. Romaldon
MANAGING EDITOR k.romaldon.518517@umindanao.edu.ph
Still, We Can Do Better failures, hopes for a new and better way of living on this planet continue to increase. Never before, perhaps, has the longing for peace, reconciliation, and unity been so profound. We are tired of fighting, revolted by violence, and dismayed by racial, religious, and national divisions. Movies and television show that violence is an acceptable and “cool” way to solve problems, that revenge is a proper response to wrongdoing. Add to this the glaring economic, political, and social unrest blocking our hunger for peace, unity, and reconciliation. What faces all of us is this alarming scenario! According to the survey of the Philippine Statistics Authority (2020) in
July, there are 3.07 million Filipinos unemployed and 8.7 million underemployed. This number continues to rise amidst the disarrayed political system. As such, there will be no peace on an empty stomach for our countrymen who live below the poverty line. Furthermore, the Bureau of Treasury announced that the total outstanding debt of the government stood at 11.9 trillion as of end of September this year which consequently affects the economy and policymaking especially in providing better services to the Filipino people. Worst of all is the 700 billion loss annually of general revenues due to public officials’ corruption. Additionally, on the recent survey of Social Weather
Stations, 4.4 million children are not attending school, and 40% of Filipino children under the age of six are malnourished. Not to mention that the Filipinos have been struggling with theeffects of the COVID-19 pandemic in all aspects, especially economically. And so, my fellow youth, I have laid down the ill effects of distrust, disunity, and divisiveness in this hall. Would you still live on this darker side of running the country? The Philippines has emerged from years of intense darkness and conflict with an enormous legacy of poverty and deprivation. Let us keep our fingers crossed and continue to demand accountability to those in power to take bold steps
no one and nothing will be at stake. Now more than ever, every country is responsible for developing strategies to reopen schools safely, and ensuring its fulfillment is their core responsibility. As we take a leap of faith, the lives of the people involved matter the same way as to how education matters to them. For some, none of it was ever worth the risk, but for us, it is the only exception.
to come. As Filipinos, may we not allow ourselves to be bearers of callously refurbished past...of distorted history. We should consider the factors that took shape in the earlier times as evidence in comprehending the causes of state development and progress and what hinders it. It is wrong to assume that history is just mere stories without a cost. (Such is a blatant insult to historians who spent years studying and understanding just to convey past events as accurately as possible). People’s approval of historical revisionism, or in enabling it by refusing to acquire factual information, is like returning to home and finding it unrecognizable...as if all traces of past occupancies were wiped out of existence.
hinder them from breaking past the label they made for themselves. In the same sense, we shouldn’t accept people who are adamant in proving they did nothing wrong.We live in a world where current circumstances drive us. Every action we take is influenced by a series of events that molded our principles and values. What matters is not the black and white or who is right. What matters is that we are willing to talk about these grayscale areas and think for ourselves. No matter which side we take, we should always think critically. For when people stop thinking, controlling us in this grayscale world becomes easier.
to rescue our already limited yet de pleting shrinking resources, along with our sinking values as a people. Let this national financial dilemma not be a reason for ordinary people to remain or become too uncaring, passive, or lazy. Moreover, let this situation not be a chance for the wealthy to keep wages and salaries low throughout the country for those who take to the streets to shut off their need for increases and better benefits. We hope we can start a new way of putting all things in proper perspective and balance, all for the sake of those of our present and our future. We, as instruments of peace, can do much in this global community. Our vision of change carries the hope of alleviating suffering, producing food in abundance, educating the ignorant, and curing the sick. Thus, we must work together to build peace, reconciliation, and justice to achieve a society imbued with a culture of human rights. And so, therefore, you and I will punch our way to promoting accountability, peace, unity, and reconciliation!
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6 P rof i l e The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao
KNOW THY PRESIDENT What is your leadership style in this new normal? My leadership style in this new normal is that I always listen and consider the idea coming from my co-officers. Since we have different points of view, they have better ideas than I have. I always believed that true leaders don’t create followers; they make more leaders.
CCE
CLINT JAKE CLARO
What are your plans as President of your College? As president, my goals are to extend my service to our department and to the CCJE students, together with my CSG co-officers. We will also make our information service available to our fellow students to learn more about our college and the University of Mindanao. During my term, as president of CCJE-CSG SY 2021-2022, I will do all efforts to let our CCJE students enjoy the services we can give them.
CCJE
ERICA MENESES
COLLEGE OF COMPUTING EDUCATION
COLLEGE OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE EDUCATION
What are your plans as President of your College? This year, I plan to have a memorable term as a President of the College of Arts and Sciences Education-College Student Government (CASE-CSG). Together with my team, we will conduct various activities to help students develop their skills and talents in our department. We also plan to help students build strong camaraderie among students in different programs to have the best college experience. Furthermore, our goals are to conduct competitions to enjoy this academic year and unleash their potential to become better students.
What is your leadership style in this new normal? As a leader, it is necessary to have your style base own your vision, especially now that we are in a new normal situation. It is hard to manage your time because it is different from how we had our studies before the pandemic. Architecture is known as an extensive course that will take most of your leisure time. Time management is the key to becoming successful in a particular event or initiation. Even though I am the president, I am also a working student. I am always active in social media, which is one of the characteristics of being a leader in a new normal setting. Being active online is essential because it monitors what is happening in my college department. As CAFAE president, my secret to my leadership is constantly being active and using my time wisely.
CASE
REYLAND ALFECHE
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES EDUCATION
CAFAE
ERVIN JONES GESTUPA
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE AND FINE ARTS EDUCATION
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How will you encourage your constituents amidst the challenges of the pandemic? Being a president of our college has been challenging for me, especially at this extraordinary time, but learning has no boundaries. We must not let this pandemic limit us from learning and gaining new experiences. Therefore, as a CHE-CSG President and a mental health advocate, I will encourage my fellow constituents by sharing my difficulties and how I cope with them. Indeed, we are all struggling, but some of us are looking at the brighter side of the situation. Everything on this earth has an ending that includes our struggles. Thus, may we continue to extend our helping hands to those who may not have seen the light that shines from above. As in all darkness, there is light. All we need is to trust that every tomorrow will bring us new hope.
CHE
ALMIRA SALUTILLO
COLLEGE OF HOSPITALITY EDUCATION
What is your leadership style in this new normal? Nothing out of the ordinary. Perhaps, you could say it is not me who leads the college. It is the college that leads me. How will you encourage your constituents amidst the challenges of the pandemic? With or without the pandemic, our lives will continue to move on. Let's do what we can and exert an effort to make the College the best in the University.
CAE
EARL JOHN CASTILLO COLLEGE OF ACCOUNTING EDUCATION
What are your plans as President of your College? Leading the CSG-CHSE during the COVID-19 pandemic is very hard because all the transactions are done online, and it’s a big adjustment for the other officers and me. On behalf of the CSG-CHSE, we plan to provide opportunities to help students become motivated through excellence and showcase their talent.
CHSE
What is your Leadership style in this New Normal? I always aspire to inspire positive changes in those who see me as a public servant. I don’t want to put heavy pressure on my co-officers to take action to their responsibilities. That can be a very idealistic way of thinking since pressure is attributed to leading and serving. I can see that all of us keep on surviving despite the difficulties while making the government thrive for excellence, which is challenging for us. And for that, I don’t want to see my co-officers feel that I see them as mere officers. I want to hear their stories, foster sound emotional connection and supportive relationships, and make them think that we can be each other’s confidants. Academic pressure is already depressing. As much as possible, leading must be positive and transformational.
CTE
JOHN HAROLD CARPE
MARJON QUIRANTE VARONA
What are your plans as the president of your college? I do have lots of plans for this school year, 2021-2022. This year I plan to continue those projects that haven’t yet been done due to the pandemic conditions and challenges. I will encourage students to join and participate with the alliance of other business schools, specifically the MSAD organization, which engages business management. With that, the CBAE students will develop their acquired knowledge and skills regarding business. Additionally, I plan to create events that will give a chance to the students to hone their skills, particularly in business, and do some activities that will guide and motivate them to their specific fields. Also, seek some effective ways to inspire students to continue connecting with others in a significant way since we’re still in this pandemic period.
How will you encourage your constituents amidst the challenges of the pandemic? The highest form of encouragement for me, I think, is to allow yourself to be vulnerable, open, and accepting. Some goals are big enough to become a reality; however, I show them that sometimes, it is okay not to be okay, not everything will go our way – failures and rejections are always part of the process. Still, you can either run away from it or learn from it. A lot of misconceptions and doubts, and issues surface in our journey during the pandemic. Still, I always feel the need to give them the starter light to keep their passion burning, stay sane, and find blessings around them through the implied lessons from the activities we, the College of Engineering Education-College Student Government (CEE-CSG), is providing. I want to show them all forms of strength when they feel hopeless in their studies when they feel worthless, when they feel ignored and rejected – it’s always someone who you can lean on, someone who hears your stories and upbringings, someone who can see the joy in shortcomings. I think that’s my role and has always been my way of motivating them.
COLLEGE OF HEALTH AND SCIENCE EDUCATION
CBAE
DENNIS CANUBAS
COLLEGE OF BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION EDUCATION
COLLEGE OF TEACHER EDUCATION
CEE
SHELDON ALLEN SALUTA COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING EDUCATION
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Marwa Ali 2nd Yr - BA Communication Femalie A. Acbay 2nd Yr - BS Criminology Have your political views changed or transformed amidst COVID-19 pandemic? In what ways?
My political views changed amidst the COVID- 19 pandemic, or we shall learn it a complex way. I was just 14 years old in the previous presidential election, and I could not vote; therefore, I didn't engage myself in political affiliation. However, when I registered myself to COMELEC and witnessed different political dilemmas, I was enlightened. Since I am a criminology student, we can affiliate ourselves to politics. Amid the pandemic, I engaged myself with further research and associated myself with the people who know politics. I surfed on the internet and tried to compare my perspective to others. I watched different videos on different social media platforms to have a fact check. As I grew older, I became mature, and my eyes were open to how difficult it is to survive. Therefore, we need a capable leader who knows how to lead a country especially in providing concrete solutions to the modern problems of the society.
What qualities are you looking for in a leader?
The most important quality I look for in a leader is, first and foremost, who fears Allah "god" because someone who fears his creator will refrain from doing anything that will destroy the land of the living creatures. Second, someone who is honest and trustworthy, as trust is an essential key to gaining the people's support and compassion.
U-Sp e a k 7
Chrestine Torrejos Faculty, College of Teacher Education What other pressing issues besides the pandemic do you think should be addressed by our future leaders?
I'm sure the government is continuously doing something to solve the problems of the country. They may even be doing so many things which we just don't know about yet. But I have faith that they never stop trying. I just wish we could maintain or continue to improve the peace and order in every part of the country. I believe it is crucial for almost every other aspect of the Philippines' development
Ladi Anne P. Caballero 4th Yr - BS Accountancy What qualities are you looking for in a leader?
The qualities I look for in a leader are compassion, competence, and character. A good leader must have a heart for serving people and be mean to improve the lives of those especially in need and disadvantaged. He must not lead to demand but lead with hope. Also, he must be competent, basically have the knowledge, skill, and experience to take what he leads onto the next level of influence and excellence. Lastly, he must have this character to unite people and influence to maximize resources to build a better future we deserve.
Jaspher Jade S. Baliscao 2nd Yr - BA Pilitical Science How do you deal with someone whose political view is different from yours?
As a political science student, the best thing you can do is accept the diversity of opinions as it is part of having a healthy democracy. However, political views should be backed up with your principles to ensure that it is not rooted in fanaticism to a politician. That is why my goal is to educate everyone, even if they have different political views. The reason is to ensure that their principles and ideologies are upheld in their political views and to make sure that they will only accept morals that are not questionable in the first place. I will respect and educate all sorts of political opinions, but I will still ensure that their preferences are not morally catastrophic.
Nica Serjas BS Psychology Alumna Batch 2021 What other pressing issues besides the pandemic do you think should be addressed by our future leaders?
I think they should give more attention to mental health and how it affects many people, specifically in this pandemic. There is still a massive stigma in getting help from psychologists and psychiatrists. It will be a huge help if the government somehow raises awareness and promotes our mental health professionals.
Johnamae D. Diana 2nd Yr - BA Broadcasting What is your political involvement, either offline or online
I prefer offline. It's good to interact with peers concerning the political movement today. However, amid the pandemic, the best access we have right now is online.
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Davao City on “Bakuna Nights”
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o stop the spread of the COVID-19 disease, the Davao City COVID-19 Task Force launched Bakuna Nights, an action program designed to boost the city’s vaccination rate while giving opportunities for workers who work during the daytime to be inoculated. This is also in line with the city’s objective of reaching herd immunity by the end of the year. San Roque Elementary School Obrero has opened its door to be the vaccination hub of the said program last September 23, from 5 pm to 7:30 pm. In a radio interview, Dr. Michelle Buscato-Schlosser, a spokesperson for the City’s Task Force, said that this program was implemented to cater to those who are unable to get inoculated during the day due to work commitments. Moreover, she also reiterated her call to the residents to debunk vaccine brand preferences, claiming that all of the vaccines provided by the city are safe and effective. “The reception of the public was good. There are people who
Photo Courtesy: City Government of Davao
by Edmalyn Canton
really want to get vaccinated, but they can’t just find the time during the daytime. With this reception, we will continue our ‘Bakuna Nights,” Spokesperson Schlosser told. Schlosser added that 588 people were jabbed on the first night of the evening vaccination. The local government plans to utilize the Davao City Recreation Center (formerly Almendras Gym) as another venue for the “Bakuna Nights” to speed up the vaccination program. “I hope we can help each other out. Let’s not hesitate to avail of this opportunity and get vaccinated for free. Let’s not choose what vaccines to get because they all serve their purpose in protecting the people from COVID-19,” Schlosser urged.
“We have reached the segment of the population who will not go to the vaccine centers, people who do not believe in vaccines, and daily wage earners who think that it’s more important to work than get a vaccine,” Mayor Sara said. For Rad Christian Infiesto, a UMian, he is pleased with the initiative that helps his relatives and friends who work mainly with their hectic schedules. “The program aims to achieve fast herd immunity by catering workers in the city who are not yet vaccinated. I highly encouraged those busy workers during the day to grab the opportunity to be vaccinated,” the student encouraged. Furthermore, the implementation of Bakuna nights is still ongoing. It has been giving raffle prizes every week for vaccinees in the city’s evening vaccination program as one of its strategies to encourage more individuals to get the jab and attain the herd immunity target before the year ends.
WIN WHILE WAIT. Vaccines of Bakuna Nights anticipating to win in the raffle draw while waiting for their turn to get the jab.
Journalist Veteran Who Celebrated Press Freedom Amid Media Outcries Wins the Nobel Peace Prize and Now Has More 2021 Beauty Queens: Confidently Reasons to Celebrate Shone Amidst the Pandemic
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he flexibility of Filipina Beauty Queens embraces the new normal pageantry.” Filipinos are the ultimate pageant fans, which is why local and national competitions, beauty camps, and organizers work tirelessly year after year to put on the finest show feasible. Filipinos from all over the world gather to see the beauty and elegance of the different pageants every year. The four major international pageants -Miss Universe, Miss Earth, Miss International, and Miss World- these main events are known as the “Big Four” competitions in the realm of pageantry. Resiliency and creativeness make these pageants possible even though we are in these trying times. Organizers unite in making all the efforts to operate pageants, even if it is held virtually to accommodate the satisfaction of the contenders and the passionate fans under the most extreme limitations. On her second shot at the pageant, the 24-year-old Filipina-Aussie beauty Hannah Arnold won as the Binibining Pilipinas International. She appears to be a believer in destiny as well as grit. As a forensic science graduate, she would want to see the Philippines engage in sci ence and technology so that we may all work together to avoid another pandemic. However, the Miss International pageant in Japan announced that it would postpone its 2021 edition, stating concerns about health and safety and the continued worldwide effect of the COVID-19 pandemic. Last August 8, during the virtual pageant finals, a Syrian-Filipino model Naelah “Nana” Alshorbaji, 23 years old of Parañaque City, beat off 67 other females for the prestigious title and was named as the Miss Philippines Earth 2021. She promotes converting existing plastic trash into useable items to minimize present plastic wastes. She finished in the Top 8 of this year’s Miss Earth pageant,
Positive Reaction Meanwhile, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio mentioned in a radio interview last September 27, 2021, that the initiated program was a massive help in the city’s efforts to achieve herd immunity, which makes COVID 19 vaccines more accessible.
by Andrea Mae Sitcharon
representing the Philippines virtually. our dreams are not cancelled, they September 30, 2021, Cebu are just put on hold," Jacolo added. City’s Beatrice Luigi Gomez was The pleasure of crowned as the Miss Universe Philip- winning a beauty pageant—and the pines 2021. Bea, a 26-year-old beauty honor of wearing the sash with our queen, is the very first openly bisexual country’s name across their chest and contender to win the title, making her carrying the Philippine flag, waving victory a watershed moment for the it the world is a big opportunity to LGBTQ+ community. She expressed hold on. Beauty pageants stand as her desire for younger LGBTQ+ in- a celebration of femininity, beaudividuals to be free of abuse or vio- ty with a purpose, and a symbol lence. She is also a community devel- of unwavering hope amidst adveropment worker and a navy marines’ sities. With our modern and phereservist. Bea now has the responsi- nomenal Filipinas exhibiting their bility of representing the Philippines beauty, purpose, and wit, they can in Miss Universe 2021, considered and will always prove that we are the world’s most prestigious pag- always worthy of a crown, whetheant, held in Israel in December. er internationally, to the world, on Out of 44 contenders, the earth, or even the entire universe. second time glamour of Tracy Maureen Perez got the title being the Miss World Philippines 2021. Tracy is an industrial engineer and model who is passionate about ensuring that others have access to education. On December 16, 2021, a beauty queen from Cebu will compete in the Hannah Arnold. Bb. Pilipinas International 2021 70th Miss World competition. A lot has happened during the onset of the pandemic which has made clear our priorities and puts us to a pedestal. Nonetheless, beauty pageants have remained relevant bringing light and hope and allowing pageant fans to take a breather. Naelah Alshorbaji. Miss "Beauty pageants bestow me exciteEarth Philippines 2021 ment most likely because of its entertainment value which is exactly what we need right now," expressed by John Loren Jacolo, an AB English student and a pageant fan. Moreover, it is worth noting that these events do not just only bring entertainment alone but also serve as great Tracy Maureen Perez. Miss platforms to carry out World Philippines 2021 certain causes and reach out to vulnerable Beatrice Luigi Gomez. Miss communities during Universe Philippines 2021 the pandemic. "A beauty pageant is still THE RADIANT PEARLS OF THE ORIENT a significant event toSEA. PH beauty reps in the big four internationday. It resonates to us al beauty pageants. Photo Courtesy: Google Images especially it brings a message that all
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by Yessamin Paredes
mid the challenges jour nalism faces in the coun try largely during the start of the health pandemic, Rappler CEO Maria Ressa hailed the first-ever Filipino Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, and is the only woman to triumph this year— announced in Oslo, Norway, last October 8, 2021, via YouTube live stream. Nobel Prizes are annual recognitions consisting of six separate titles in chemistry, medicine, physics, literature, economics, and peace, founded by the late chemist Alfred Nobel, with gold medals, diplomas, and cash prizes to honor the laureates' coup. The Nobel Peace Committee announced the victory of the Filipino journalist jointly with a Russian journalist Dmitry Muratov, and are commended for their tenacity and fearless dedication in celebrating democracy despite threats and clamors surrounding their profession. Upon the declaration, Berit Reiss-Andersen, Nobel Committee chairwoman, addressed Ressa as a "fearless defender of freedom of expression," that despite a recent slew of charges and the overall challenges she underwent in the course of her 35 years career, she remained steadfast in spreading fact-based information day-to-day, often in the face of personal risks. "This is a recognition of how hard it is to be a Journalist today," Ressa told Rappler in a Facebook Live last October 9. The Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre's nomination of her for the title in February was leaked and gave congratulatory remarks to the journalist. But Ressa did not expect to win such honor and claimed to be "shocked," "emotional," but "humbled." Before co-founding Rappler in 2012, Ressa has been a prominent journalist for various news organizations in Asia. She served as CNN's bureau chief in Manila from 1987 to 1995 and CNN Jakarta from
Photo Courtesy: Nobel Prize
1995 to 2005. She also served as the chief of ABS-CBN News and Current Affairs Division from 2005 to 2011. Her works centered on investigating terrorism in Southeast Asia and bear works Seeds of Terror and From Bin Laden to Facebook: 10 Days Abduction, 10 Years Terrorism. Ressa and Muratov are the first journalists to become Nobel Peace recipients since 1935 and are lauded as icons of democracy in their respective nations. The Nobel Peace title is awarded to individuals who have "done the most or the best work for fraternity between nations, for the abolition or reduction of standing armies and for the holding and promotion of peace congresses," established by the committee since 1901. This recognition embraces the idea of many possible paths in achieving peace, be it through writing or critical inventions, and the lasting importance of achieving it in a diversified, ever-changing community. The Nobel Peace Prize provides an awareness of the conditions of human rights in different parts of the world and preserves fascinating stories that change the course of history which may give young ones the confidence to safeguard peace in whichever means they can exhibit.
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Weirdest Jobs: How far would you go to make money? Life offers a plethora of opportunities. Some people are too lucky enough to manage a business inheritance; thus, they no longer have difficulty finding a chance to work. However, the average individual needs to compete in the ever-challenging world of the job market to earn enough money. Luckily, even if there’s an existing extreme competition, the odds are still in favor of the needy. There are many ways to earn an income, but it needs a little twist. Some people resort to jobs that are not common to hear, yet they still get paid surprisingly well, like the traditional, well-trodden careers. Curious? Explore some of the weirdest jobs and see if your calling is on the list.
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CHIEF LISTENING OFFICER by Riolie Chris Salvacion A good listener makes
an attentive gossiper, but little did people know there is a rather useful purpose. It is a Chief Listening Officer (CLO), which sounds unheard of, but the job plays an integral role in this Information age. A CLO works to obtain feedback from consumers through listening and data gathering. They commonly work for social media platforms like Facebook. Everybody can hear, but not just anybody gets the job. Listening is different since it requires understanding and undivided attention. How hard could it be if the average attention span of a person is 20 minutes? Hence, for people enjoying new features such as night mode or a set of adorable emojis, know that CLOs listened. Through them, services expanded and improved, giving us a better experience than before.
ODOR JUDGE by Marcel Marie T. Dagohoy A human nose can do
wonders. It can identify various smells, which is why we are distinct from any other forms of living creatures. But this advantage can be more than just itself. The ability to distinguish and compare smells efficiently can work as an odor judge, which you can earn more than a living. As an odor judge, you have to adjust the scent, test the effectiveness of odor-reducing products, and evaluate a smell. All of these are what make your unique skill sought after by all different types of companies worldwide. As much as this job also contains a fair share of sheer nastiness, it will never change the fact that you’ve helped a lot of products improve their smell. With this, the sweet smell of triumph still spread over.
NETFLIX FULL-TIME VIEWER by Cheene Jean Languido Watching Netflix and
chill may sound ideal. It’s the best way to relax, especially after a long, tiring day. If this suits your passion, being a full-time Netflix viewer may be an excellent job for you. It is a job known as “Netflix tagger” or “Metadata Analyst” where you are paid to watch new Netflix content and assign respective tags on these shows. These tags, such as information about profanity or genre, are utilized to make computer algorithms primarily responsible for what we see in our Netflix recommendations. This job may sound bizarre, but it adds meaning to your late-night movie marathons. Of course, you will be paid well while doing what you love. As Tony Bennett said, “If you follow your passion, you’ll never work a day in your life.”
ONLINEDATINGGHOSTWRITER by Jea Piencenaves Have you ever fallen
in love with someone you meet through the screen? These days everything can be done online, such as finding true love. Aside from giving butterflies in our stomachs, this can also be profitable by being an Online Dating Ghostwriter. This type of job is a bit out of the ordinary, but it does exist. They are responsible for creating exciting profiles for their clients on dating apps. Their customers are those people whose English is not their primary language. When their clients no longer have the strength to maintain the conversation, an online ghostwriter comes in. Indeed, everything can be manipulated online; but all you need to do is find ways to earn money out of it.
PAGPAG-MAKING by Mikaela Maria Saniatan Almost two years and
the Philippines is still on its knees, struggling to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. To address this, the government has implemented strict quarantine measures that, unfortunately, resulted in millions of Filipinos losing their livelihoods. Aside from the virus, however, another horrific evil looms nearby - hunger. This situation is where pagpag came into existence. Pagpag refers to the collection of restaurant leftovers and meats from waste dumps, washed, cooked, and sold. It is both profitable and food for survival for poor communities. With the existing health protocols to contain the outbreak, pagpag should be a non-alternative. However, the direness of the situation calls those living handto-mouth to contend with a meager income. It may be pretty unusual for many, but it’s a survival food amidst difficulty for the unfortunate.
FACE FEELERS by Vanessa Bacus Working using the senses
alone might be too hard to imagine and perhaps impossible to find one. Little did we know that this job already existed in different parts of the world. One of these is face feelers, often dubbed “Sensory Scientist” for handling different faces with gentleness. In this job, you will be using your senses to differentiate the face before and after applying a particular product. Unusual as it may seem but requires skills that are also uncommon - a light, gentle hand to nudge is what our face needs. Overall, they are the heart of every massage shop where people can relax, meditate and a place where stress could not foster.
DRYING PAINT WATCHER by Cheerish Dianne Rosa We are so enthralled at seeing vibrant colors all around us that we can’t even imagine the world without them. It is the world for some people as it is what they do for a living. Drying Paint Watcher is a real, unusual job that people do to make sure that quality paints are produced commercially. But watching paint dry is more than just what meets the eye. Intricate observatory skills are required in the microscopic view as you watch billions of tiny particles like the stars in a milky way. Hence, it requires you to be patient enough as you witness in fascination colorful magic unfold right in front of you.
HIPPOTHERAPY by Nisha Joy Galeos Life itself has its fathomable meaning. Each living creature has its purpose of serving plants, animals, and humans. Hippotherapist does help people with special care and needs in terms of movement. Undeniably, it seems unusual for a person to be treated with the help of animals. However, it’s not about how animals relieve the stresses of humans; rather, hippotherapy, a professional treatment served by a licensed practitioner who uses horses to treat humans with movement dysfunction. It is a treatment strategy that therapeutically utilizes equine movement. Unusual as it may seem, but hippotherapists do exist, and their job shows how incredible the connection between humans and animals is.
DURIAN CATCHER by Albert Cabatlao Durian catcher is a longtime joke for most Filipinos, knowing that it is impossible to catch the thorny features of this fruit using bare hands alone. However, the impossibility of this job has been swept away when Magenda Eban, the famous durian catcher from Makilala Cotabato, proves that it is possible. Indeed, he is worthy of being called “Durian King.” Eban allows us to see that his work may be uncommon to hear, but it helps him provide food on the table. As a Filipino himself, he brought the qualities of being diligent and determined in any life challenges. Whatever job it might be, as long as it can aid finances without anyone being offended, it is already more than enough.
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10 Feat u re s The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao
t s e d r i w e w : ho d l s u b jo wo to r o a f ou g ey y mon e k a m
"odor judge" photos by Billy Vince Alquino "online dating ghostwriter" photos by Jheri Mae Bacularao "pagpag making" photos by Jheri Mae Bacularao, Popnblog, Pepper.ph "netflix full-time viewer" photos by Rowel Faustino "hippotherapist" photos by Rowel Faustino "face feeler" photos by Rowel Faustino "chief listening officer" photos by Jake Padayao "drying paint watcher" photos by Billy Vince Alquino "durian catcher" photos by Rowel Faustino, Nadil Ibrahim
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The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao
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12 C re at ive s The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao
our fellow countrymen by Francis Barbosa
Hear the plight of starving men and their thirst for freedom Close your ears and see how small whispers turn to vicious growls likha ni Almarie L. Canon
boto mo, kinabukasan mo ni Cassandra Varquez
Marka sa kamay, patunay sa bawat desisyong nararapat isabuhay, Daan sa lugar ng kaunlaran ay maisakatuparan habang tayo’y may kalayaan. Kalayaang maipahayag ang ninanais ng bawat mamamayan. Mga mamamayang may kapangyarihang mailuklok ang taong magbibigay ginhawa sa bawat tahanan. Unahin ang hinaharap ng iyong pamilya, isiping mabuti ang ilagay sa balota.
Taste the wrath of angered men and their desire to see blood being shed For the sin of neglecting your own men comes with a price far greater than justice Witness the passion of loving men and their desire to die for the beliefs they hold Minute dreams that gather slowly create huge waves enough to topple adversaries Join the march of hopeful men and their dream for better days Hear us, understand us, help us For if we hold hand in hand together, We can make our country great once more
simula ni Virn Pelias
May bagong gawang daan banda sa min Natuwa ako, pero naalala ko malapit na pala ang eleksyon Isang araw ng pagpili Kung sino ang papalit sa posisyon Hindi naging madali ang pandemya Hindi ko na rin alam Kung naging maayos ba ang pamamalakad nila Basta ang alam ko May libreng bakuna, may ayuda At mga bagong imprastraktura Ngunit alam ko rin na may nawawalang pera maraming nawalan ng kabuhayan, at nawalan ng buhay Tama bang isipin Na walang perpektong pamamalakad? O baka nasanay nalang tayo na hindi sila perpekto Maraming tanong ang mahirap sagutin Pero isa lang ang sigurado Ilang buwan mula ngayon Tayo ang magtatakda ng simula Sa araw ng pagpili
Wag na tayong mag bulag-bulagan pa, wag hayaang takpan ng pera ang boses na makaka-ahon sating pamilya. Maging wais sa pagboto, piliin ang makakatulong sa kababayan mo, Gawing boses ang asul na marka, upang mailuklok ang taong didinig saiyong hinaing at problema Umiwas sa politikong mapagsamantala, mamamaya’y binubulag sa pera upang boto’y mapasakanila. Karapatan ng tao’y ating paigtingin upang wala nang hingpit na hinaing. Bawat isa, bawat mamamayan, may kapangyarihan na baguhin ang kinabukasan. Bumoto, wag magbulag bulagan o kaya’t mag bingi bingihan upang kasaysayan ay wag balewalain, kinabukasan ay alalahanin. Boto mo, kinabukasan mo. likha ni Ezekeil S. Sabellano
I. voice of the youth: an open letter to the political candidates To all aspiring leaders: Have you once asked yourself, "Am I willing to sacrifice my whole six years of existence for my country?" This question is one of the common questions that probably most of you have already pondered. I am pretty sure that all of you would never hesitate to answer YES in a loud and clear voice in front of the Filipino people. Along with your brave soul are the promises you have carved to everyone's expectations. Indeed, it's undoubtedly promising to hear your words of assurance; it's as if we live in a world where lies can't prosper, and everything seems as easy as a blink to achieve. I have to agree that there's nothing wrong with dreaming for the country. In fact, your dreams are also the dreams of millions of people. However, what makes your dreams doubtful is their capacity to fulfill them the way they were once spoken. Thus, during these hot electoral competitions, the stage is yours. You have the freedom to preach all your advocacies, plans, dreams, and promises for the country. Persuade us that we, the Filipino people, don't have to fret and be doubtful by the words you've uttered; our trust is safe as we placed it to whoever won the election. Nowadays, your supporters have already surfaced to different social media platforms. Each of them has various ways to show their utmost support and fight your name to the opposition. Indeed, their immense trust in your capacity deserves a round of applause. However, the more people have different beliefs and opinions drive everyone to divide further. Politics indeed divide us. But we should not let this ruin our unity and relationship with others. Herewith, may you never disappoint our trust and confidence once you have secured your seat. Bring always with you the torch of your dreams and the authenticity of your words. As a youth, I hope we genuinely emphasize the line, "the hope of our nation," by casting our vote to those whose actions and potential are unquestionable. But we can make this happen if we see hope in your hand and the capacity to lift us from the same page of underdevelopment. I also humbly ask all of you to be true to your words. You run not because you want to reap high salaries, make money out of the people's taxes, and be known in public, but for the reason that you firmly believe in your capacity to lead and have a heart of compassion to bring us closer to progress.
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C re ative s 13
Overall, as much as the electoral campaign is not smooth sailing for you, the same goes for the voters who need to think twice-fold to select the best one. Before giving this letter a closing remark, may we always remember that this upcoming election for 2022 is not an individual race, but it's a fight for all of us. Thus, to all aspiring leaders, may you never forget that the ink invested by us to your name shall, hopefully, not be wasted. All the best, Maria
II. dear presidential candidates, We hope you’re all doing well. We appreciate the time and money you invested in vying for the highest position in the Philippines. We know your intention is good, or at least we’ve convinced ourselves that. We have three requests, but the first one we’d like to highlight upfront is for you to stop the ‘over promise, under deliver’ streak. No shade to the previous administration, but it seems no one has totally eradicated corruption in the government because it is truly a difficult task. No matter how strong-willed the President may be, corruption is there like a leech eating the good promises of every well-meaning official voted into office. We need you to admit it is difficult, do your best, and tell us the truth when you’re failing. In life, we need vulnerability in order to move towards resilience. Also, it might be worth looking into the best practices of the countries with least corruption in their government. The second request is for you to stop the drama. Please fight fair and be a good sport to each other. The time you’ll spend investigating each other’s dirty laundry and publicizing it would be best directed to making your platforms feasible and your goals realistic. We have faced a pandemic as a country no matter our political views, and we will still face the same future regardless of our differences. The last request is, apart from the Higher power, may you also be afraid of the Filipino people. The past generations may have been used to the kind of governance wherein the government is elite, but it might not be the case this time. You owe this generation good governance. May you continue the beneficial projects that the previous administrations have started, but may you also, and importantly, stop the detrimental practices that have sunk the Philippines as a poverty-stricken third-world country. Good luck! We look forward to your platforms. Sincerely, Generation Z
utopia Antsy
Far away from the eyes
of the cruel gods, there lies a city ruled by two factions. The Empaths valued the lives of every citizen, and the Stoics valued the greater good of the city. The city, at first glance, is a perfect example of a utopia. Prosperous, rid of violence, and thriving. Without the gods' attention, the city could create a society genuinely guided by their moral compass without divine intervention. Thus, a place where everyone equally flourished. However, no matter how flawless one might seem to present itself, there are bound to be secrets hiding in the cracks of a seemingly perfect façade. Every decade, the citizens would elect a member to be offered as a sacrifice to the city as the vessel to rule over it. This ritual is necessary for the vessel which is responsible for the city to become invisible in the eyes of the cruel gods. Without the vessel, the gods would notice the city and would start meddling with their affairs. In the city's history, there was only one time when the gods found the city, and the effects were beyond catastrophic. Enraged by the deceitful acts of the inhabitants of this place, the gods inflicted the city with myriad curses that engulfed the land in despair and misfortune. Drought, famine, and multiple disasters struck the city until the sacrifice was made once again. However, the city would continue to suffer for another decade just from days of being discovered.
After the city was hidden once more, the city's inhabitants began to be more proactive in selecting the sacrifice. This was the resolve of the Stoics after experiencing the consequences of their actions. Thus, for the past century, the sacrifices came from their faction. While the city never had to worry too much after the disaster, this course of action started to affect the citizen as the balance favored the Stoics. Before, the two ruling factions were both equal in power. However, it was in the nature of the Empaths to value the life of every being. Thus, they were reluctant and indecisive before. When the Stoics began to send their citizens as sacrifice more actively, the Empaths welcomed them with open arms initially. The Empaths started to notice and were worried about the current status quo in their supposed utopia. However, it wasn't only the Empaths that noticed the changes in the city's status quo. In fact, the Stoics welcomed this change. Fundamentally, the Stoics and the Empaths valued different things. The Stoics cared for advancement and securing the city's survival even at the cost of lives, while the Empaths would always try to find an option to save as many lives as possible without leaving anyone behind. No one was inherently evil; both just have different ideas on what is 'good' and 'evil.'
Before, multiple projects of the Stoics were discontinued by the Empaths due to humanitarian issues. The Empaths were always there to draw the line whenever the Stoics went too far with their goals. Whenever other lives were at risk, the Empaths would always put sanctions on them to stop it. However, since the sacrifices have been coming from the Stoics for a considerable number of times already, that meant that the Empaths were also losing power on the political battlefield. It wasn't until the 5th sacrifice that they noticed the change in their dynamics between the two factions. Stoics began to promulgate decrees that only benefited their factions. The Stoics created policies and projects that were more in line with their idea of 'good.' Naturally, the Empaths tried to stop some of these, but all their complaints fell on deaf ears as the Stoics used the sacrifices as leverage.
first culling, the Empaths were against the sacrifice of the Stoics. The Empaths argued that if the Stoics continued to sacrifice members of their factions, they would continue to pressure the Empaths to concede to their whims. Drunk on power, the Stoics retaliated by blaming the lack of proactiveness in the opposing faction for presenting a sacrifice. After days of debate, the time to preset the new sacrifice for the vessel of the city is coming closer. Even so, none of the factions were willing to concede. Both factions forgot the essence of the ritual and were only focused on their faction's best interest. Unwilling to find a middle ground, both factions
couldn't come to an agreement. The Empaths abandoned their duty to protect every inhabitant of the city, and the Stoics forgot their commitment to protecting the city's greater good. In the end, the gods took notice of their city once again and were met with harsher punishment. In an instant, the whole city was obliterated. Not a single sign of life was left. The city of utopia forgot their duties and protected what they believed in, which led to their demise. A cautionary tale of how dangerous beliefs can be when put above the greater good. Do our ideals and interests weigh heavier than our fellow beings? That is a question only you can answer.
As years went by, the Stoics began to think of themselves as the superior faction between the two. Their treatment towards the Empaths began to deteriorate lowly for being weakwilled, and the divide between the two began to widen. They feared that if things were to continue, they would lose power in the city and wouldn't be able to raise their concerns anymore. Thus, in the 8th decade after the illustration by Novem Dawn N. Manzano
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14 C over S to r y The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao
“A
liminal space is the period of time that exists between the ‘what was’ and the ‘what will be.’ It’s a time of transition, a period of waiting and uncertainty. If we learn to wait and let it mold us, liminal space is where all transformation takes place.” The works of art that are presently hanging and standing on the ground of Poblacion Market Central (Bangoy Street, Davao City) emerged from the box labeled “Art at Liminal Space.” Never before has the artist been more limited than during this pandemic. Ironically, when marked in opposition to the basics, the artist became creative, rebelling and establishing their value in the community. Around 35 art galleries, with over 1000 artworks of about 300 artists, the exhibit—which includes 16 mannequins wearing high-end fashion from all over Mindanao—can be overwhelming to the senses. The depth of imagery used by Filipino artists continues to wow everybody. The way they see the world, people, and their experiences—not just their own, but the experiences of all Filipinos—is enigmatically magical. Sculptures of tree stumps greet you, symbolizing our lives being cut off and isolated during the pandemic. However, you’ll notice that they’ve sprung new branches to reflect our resiliency. Then it will take you to a cocoon tunnel, where you will see and experience seclusion, demonstrating the liminal space before metamorphosis. As you exit, an illuminated butterfly appears right in front of your eyes, giving you the sense of new life, full of hope and transformation. With the butterfly as its icon, Mindanao Art 2021 asks art enthusiasts to think about how COVID-19 has touched humanity and recognize that beauty is ever-present in the face of a cruel history and an uncertain future. From realism to abstraction, paintings to sculptures, oil and acrylic materials, to unusual sawdust and mud, Mindanao art is a must-see destination for new additions to the collection. The show is a hunting field for artists to support. Those who were able to capture the subject or style that one was looking for. The exhibit’s liminality concept is highlighted by two massive murals created by Davao’s most talented muralist, Jeff Bangot, near the exhibit’s entry. The two murals, which
photos by Rowel M. Faustino
each cover an entire wall, blend Lumad mythical heroes with cartoon and cinematic figures and the appropriation of the artist’s works and religious motifs. Guests entering Poblacion Market Central, the venue for MindanaoArt 2021, would find themselves “in-between” two murals depicting “the history and present that made us who we are,” according to Jeff. The first painting portrays Captain America, Wonder Woman, Mickey Mouse, R2D2, and other Western characters, while the second includes Filipino icons Darna, Lapu-Lapu, Lastikman, and the Katipuneros. The moment that you gaze through the beauty of the artworks, it’s as if you’re venturing a canvas-like loaded brimming with masterpieces. Diverse artists from various exhibitions across Mindanao have gathered their works of art in a single spot, from caricature to hyper authenticity representations, those delightful scenes that make you want to look somewhere else just by looking out a window, the excellence of models that opens up our brain in the way of life we have and human expressions for the consciousness of mental wellbeing. Some pieces depict people wearing masks on their faces. Jonal Magkidong (Fake Mask), Christine Lopez (Third Dose), Michael Bacol (Quarantined and Clown Corona), Rambeth Vergara (Rembrant Self-Quarantine), and Kyle Toribio’s (Sundo, Gukod, and The Lament of Icarus Milon Fernandez’ Fundemic, in addition to depicting grief, demonstrates how playful we can be even in the face of tragedy. The reality of the pandemic, on the other hand, determines the liminality of this exhibition. This explains the venue’s admission restriction, which is based only on registration. This is unfortunate because the show should be seen by as many people as possible. The organizers have made this display available online as a response to this terrible fact. Apart from standing a few feet away from the paintings on the wall, there is still nothing culturally enriching. The Mindanao Art Fair 2021 could very well be the beginning for our Mindanawon visual artists as they navigate this barrier we are all confronting in the wake of the virus’s rampage and different forms. Indeed, true to its “liminal character,” the exhibition appears to be in a state of flux as if it is caught in-between.
Art in Between: Mindanao Art in Liminal Space by Justine Anne S. Miralles
PROOF OF INDIGENOUS ARTISTRY. Wander to wonder unto the majestic world of art in Mindanao Arts Fair, Poblacion Market Central.
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The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao ested due to my love for retro video games. Since most retro games are pixel art-based. I also started to see a lot of pixel artwork on my social media. I’ve also followed a lot of pixel artists on Twitter and Facebook until eventually, I tried to dabble a little bit into it as well.”
Artist:
Randylle Deligero (Arenine) Art Form: Pixel Arts Year Level and Program: 4th year BA Multimedia Arts (UM-CCE) When did you start creating art? “I started during my college days given the nature of my course and the program I chose (Multimedia Arts), where we are exposed to different forms of media. Each one of us had our own interest upon applying for the course. I started to get serious doing art four years ago.” Why Pixel Art? “Originally, I didn’t start with pixel art. I discovered the genre last year when the pandemic and quarantine started. I became inter-
What are the differences between pixel arts and other types of traditional art forms? “I think that the difference between pixel art and other types of an art form is that pixel art is a bit restrictive. You are essentially working with a small canvas in which you have to decide the colors you have to combine in order to make your subject recognizable. Since we are talking about art at a pixel level, you have to be conscious of every pixel you put into making your art readable in front of your viewers. Unlike other art forms wherein you are free to put details, you have to be sure of every pixel you put in your artwork.” Since you mentioned that Pixel Art is a restrictive art form, how do you express yourself with this genre? “I did say that the genre has its restrictions. However, you also have the freedom to choose what you put into your canvas as your subject. It also serves as a challenge for the artist to discipline yourself. Sometimes restrictions also make you a better artist given the right resources. It’s not necessarily a restriction per se, but it serves as the freedom to discipline yourself as an artist.” How can you best express yourself in this genre for us who are not famil-
catch people’s interest by receiving praises on my posts made me want to pursue creating art.
Artist:
Johann P. Alcain “Follow your arrow wherever it points” —Kacey Musgraves
Age: 21 Year Level and Program: 2nd year BA Multimedia Arts (UM-CCE) Achievement: Mayor’s Choice Award, Runner up (Kadayawan’s Digital Art Contest 2021)
Can you first share a glimpse of your life? I have five siblings. In the family, I was the first one who took up arts. My love for art began when I was in high school. With the help of my phone and its editing applications, I was able to learn basic collages, graphic design posters, and illustrations. Before, it was just something I loved to do and post my artwork on social media. On that day, I never thought I would
What are your experiences and personal encounters while studying at UM? So far, I have learned so much from my instructors. They encouraged us to join competitions related to our craft. It was a pleasant experience knowing that you are learning and improving in the field you belong. One of the hurdles I had to overcome was not having equipment that I could utilize to hone the skills needed for my course. To add, I enrolled in a program that my family was not supportive of, which I can understand because I decided to pursue a career that is not practical given our circumstances. However, my heart longed for this, so I decided to choose this course (MMA) and keep it from my family. Even so, the road after wasn’t easy. Either I had to borrow my friends’ laptops or rent a computer just to fulfill my obligations in school. On a scale of 1-10, how huge of an art fan are you? Explain why. Ten. Arts played a huge part in my journey, not just in terms of financial aspect but also in the emotional facet, as art allows me to express my emotions. Art is therapy, an escape from the things that bother me. Through it, I can be myself. It’s incredible how you can speak with and share
Sp otl i g ht 15
iar with pixel arts? “I think it depends on the subject of the artwork as well as the interpretation of your viewers. In my perspective, I usually give a little context on what the artwork is, and the rest I leave to the imagination of my viewers, and if they’re interested to understand it more, they can always ask me about it. I can’t speak for every artist out there, but that is how I usually do things.” Since this medium is not that common, how does the community perception of the genre based on your experience? “Whenever I say that I do pixel art, they usually become curious because, in social media, traditional art and digital art unrelated to pixel art are the common types of artworks you will encounter. Their reactions upon hearing aren’t antagonistic as well; rather, they become curious. A part of their curiosity is due to the nostalgia they feel as they remember the games they played with similar graphics like ‘Super Mario’ and such. Eventually, they’d ask me of the software I use to create my artworks, and the rest is history.” Since we are in the 21st century, technology has been helping us create artworks. However, is it possible to create pixel arts without it? “I have joined several groups centered around pixel arts, and I have seen a lot of posts of pixel arts created through embroidery. I even saw Mario and Zelda as pixel characters. I even saw pixel artworks done in traditional art mediums. In short, yes, pixel art is not exclusive to digital art as long as the artist is
stories to tell people with arts. What were your wins and challenges in joining the last #KadayawanReimagined Digital Art Contest as one of the runners-up? Starting, I was able to defeat my hesitation in myself. It was my first time joining an art contest, and I was skeptical because I felt that I didn’t have any chances of winning. Even so, I kept on trying, and unexpectedly, I was able to bag the Mayor’s Choice Award and one of the runners-up. Second, I was able to continue despite the struggles along the way. In fact, the only equipment I used was my phone. It was challenging to use because it kept on crashing, which took me considerably longer. Not to mention the difficulty I went through because of the small screen I had to work with. Nonetheless, I was still able to push through. Can you tell me your journey in joining the art contest? A friend happened to tag me in a post pertaining to the Kadayawan Digital Art contest. I was really interested. I hesitated at first, but I kept on telling myself that it was okay to try things. Moreover, due to confusion, I had less than a week to prepare, and in the process, it became more challenging as I was only limited with my resources. Still, I was able to continue and pass my piece on the day of the deadline. With that being said, I am thrilled because I was able
comfortable with their resources. You mentioned that you’ve been creating pixel art for a year now. Is there any artwork that you’re particularly the proudest of? “I have this certain art that I’m particularly fond of because of the challenges that came with it. It’s called ‘Cabin in the Forest,’ and as the name suggests, I created a cabin in the middle of the forest and the biggest hurdle of this piece was that I had to learn how to create the Pine trees and how to make them recognizable to the viewers. And during that time, I still struggle to learn about perspectives. The piece took three months to finish due to many factors such as schoolwork, burnout, and anxiety about whether I could finish the piece. Eventually, I overcame the challenges and completed the piece. I was also happy that a lot of people appreciated the piece as much as I did.” In conclusion, do you have a message for our readers? “You cannot create great things in an instant. In creating art, you have to start small. Take it one step at a time to learn new things, and when things get difficult, no rule prohibits you from stopping for a while and continuing after you’ve rested. You have to take it to step by step to reach the things you have been working hard for. I think that speaks a lot for art and creating it, especially those who are just beginning/aspiring artists. Every piece of art is unique in its own way. At a pixel level, even the smallest of things create the biggest difference when you look at the bigger picture.”
to achieve the runners up and it was just unexpected. All the competition winners really deserve their victory. I know I did my best, and it matters the most. Are there any changes in your life after the event? Yes, because I was endorsed to so many commissions that have helped me financially. By the time the winners were all pronounced as this year’s winners, it had given me a chance to expose myself as an artist. After that time, a sheer number of people came by and reached me for some commissions, and I feel so motivated, and it inspires me to join competitions in the near future. What do you see yourself doing aside from being an artist? Aside from being an artist, I view myself as a person who dreams and likes to try different things in life. I am also an aspiring singer. Before joining art contests, I used to be in a band and was more active in musical competitions. Music always has a space in my heart. What/Who are your inspirations when crafting arts? One of my inspirations as an artist is other artists I have seen around social media. I am enthused by just looking at their masterpiece, so I aspire to produce mine with my own style. Second then is my family, nothing else more.
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16 In fot a i n m e nt The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao
series review
book review
Photo Courtesy: Google Images
Photo Courtesy: Google Images
movie review
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song review
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game review
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"Peaky Blinders" Riolie Chris C. Salvacion
"The Silent Patient" Mikaela Maria Saniatan
"Babae at Baril" Nisha Joy Galeos
"See You Again" Vanessa Antao
"Call of Duty: Mobile" Edmalyn Canton
Gutsy. Angsty. Sly. Peaky Blinders are all of that combined to get people at the edge of their seats. Set-in post-war Birmingham, a gang led by Tommy Shelby is out to conquer the city and beyond, aspiring to build an empire. This thriller and crime genre series separates itself from superhero tropes and introduces him, a villain-like protagonist you still find yourself rooting for just as much. Although, be not lured! Tread lightly on the story because it isn't for the faint of heart. There, spilled it! Super parental guidance is advised.
"Only she knows what happened. Only I can make her speak."
Justice for dignity and revenge. Nowadays, women are no longer battling for the right to vote and voice out, but still, the world seems like a four-cornered boxing ring that reflects danger. Janine Gutierrez in Babae at Baril (The Girl and The Gun) is a department store saleslady that must deal with men catcalling her every day, which seems to be expected in their neighborhood, and she, unfortunately, has experienced sexual harassment by her co-worker. Life for her is exhausting, as she looks very powerless being, but the scenery changes when she finds a crime gun at the alleyway that gives her a dangerous sense of power over men's unwanted misbehavior. As she learns how much power owning a pistol may provide her, her life changes dramatically. The movie's line "Gusto mo to? Ipuputok ko sayo to!" is delivered by two different characters in different settings. It was initially provided by the saleslady's rapist when he committed the crime and by the saleslady herself when she had the gun with her. This scene gives allusion scenery; because Janine was holding a pistol, the scenario has experienced a role shift. From being a fragile and scaredy-cat to a woman with a burning passion for taking her revenge. Janine found the gun unintentionally, and it gave her the ability to fight. She did not obtain the revenge she desired at the end of the film, but she did prevent the gun from committing another crime. She ended the criminal chain that the gun had started. The previous owners of the gun had committed tremendous wrongdoings. It took many lives and aspirations before she discovered it. The movie gives me shivers because of how well it was crafted, from the realistic backdrop to how all the artists share dialogue, making the film more believable. The lines were delivered with ten out of ten ratings, while the camerawork provided the optimal angle of view for the audience. Women, throughout generations, have fought a good battle for equality, but still, the world is a big battlefield.
It may sound antiquated nonetheless, its relevance stays even up to this day!
Being a GenZ, I wasn't interested in mobile games, so I wasn't extremely keen on them until I attempted playing Call of Duty. Call of Duty is a successful game that several people love playing it. It is demandable, has online multiplayer, and you can form a league or team to combat people from all over the world through the internet. Call of Duty was released in 2003 and was not very popular because it is all about fighting your opponent. Call of Duty offers a one-of-a-kind experience in which you can play as an American or a Russian soldier with each country's weapons, vehicles, and fighting tactics. It's difficult to stop playing once you're inside the game. With this context, this game appears to be designed for smartphones and tablets. Going from the accuracy of cursor keys to the selection of digital keys on the screen is not suitable. However, I still discovered the controls to help navigate the terrain and pop off bullets. Call of Duty Mobile seems to have the same warfighting flow and pacing as its play station and PC predecessors, with almost the same pleasurable pop to a headshot or nightmarish pressure of a weapon to the back. It also includes some of the exact mechanisms, such as team deathmatch, area-controlling domination, and the marvelous gun game, in which you attempt to become the first player to earn an extra one kill with every one of 20 various weapons. No doubt, many people stay up late playing online with their group or clan to rank up, while others typically play it alone to improve or simply for fun. It's a competitive game, and you might get peeved because you'll get killed, your internet connection is poor, or you just don't learn how to play at all. The free-to-play model and monetization were the two biggest unknowns going into Call of Duty apart from touch controls. Indeed, users can enjoy even more than they want. The existing free version's energy meters have vanished, and you would not have to watch video ads in between matches or anything like that. The game is surprisingly approachable in that context. If you want, you can play for hours on end without paying. So, what are you waiting for? It's your call of duty.
Let's begin dissecting the main characters. Tommy, the brains of the gang. The cunning devil who would play with the devil himself. And Arthur Shelby, the older brother with the role of the foot soldier. Both men returned from war-scarred, became the shell of a person they were reduced to while knowing what it took forever away from them. Third, Aunt Pol, which I deem the balance that holds the brutes in place. I won't delve into details, but I like how each one gets fleshed out. No one here is immortalized. They messed up, and I hate them. The next second, they make amends, and I love them again. Though, some seemed just unredeemable, like squealing when they finally leave, "good riddance!". Nevertheless, they resonate with me, which speaks volumes of how well-rounded characters they are. Aside from the gangs and fistfights, the show portrayed the society left in shambles after the war, at least for people in the working class. Poverty infested the society spreading like a disease, so in short, life looked bleak for everybody. There, Peaky Blinders entered. They were pegged heroes, alright. Although they are far from that, and I say one should not fall from the charms of Tommy and believe so. But certainly, this shall give an exhilarating, chaotic train wreck. Be ready to be pulled into a villain's shoes, marching to the befitting end, whatever that is. Thus, I leave you with a quote by Tommy himself, "You can change what you do, but you can't change what you want."
The quiet Alicia. She is. Whatever is in her mind, no one can ever know. After all, who will ever understand? To dumb the feeling parts of herself. To escape. To unknow what has been. Alicia, staring blankly ahead. Alicia, the silent patient. (Watch out for the man across the street!) A renowned painter and a loving wife to her husband, Alicia Berenson keeps a diary where she writes about her devotion to Gabriel. However, one mysterious night, Alicia shoots Gabriel several times and refuses to talk about it. She hasn't spoken a word since. Years passed, Theo Faber, a psychologist obsessed with Alicia's case, was determined to unravel all her secrets, searching for the truth behind the murder of her husband. (Why kill him if he was the love of her life?) The Silent Patient is Alex Michaelides' debut novel that took the No.1 spot on the New York Times Best Seller list, winning the Goodreads Choice Award in 2019. It is a captivating psychological thriller that never fails to play tricks on the readers' minds, leaving them surprised with each riveting scene. An avid fan of crime-related books? Of the renowned Sherlock Holmes? Of the best-selling novelist Agatha Christie? No. No matter how exposed you have been to such a genre, no one can ever guess its twist. No, not unless you are 95% through the book. And oh, this also goes to those who find solace in art, primarily paintings, as it also centers on finding clues and meaning to the very last painting Alicia did. You will get to meet Alcestis, the woman who offered her life to save her husband. details!)
(And oh! Pay attention to the
comics ang na anak ni papa by ma.maingay hannah angeline l. dumadara
dis-cat-ion by honey claire l. avila
Procrastination Cram Later by almarieNow, l. canon
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Wiz Khalifa wrote the song "See you again" featuring Charlie earned an enormous array of views on YouTube (5.3 billion), although it was released as the soundtrack's lead single in the United States on March 10, 2015. When it was released, "See You Again" became an instant smash, spending 12 weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. It has won seven awards, including the Billboard Music Award for the best rap song, the NRJ Music Award for International Song of the Year, and several more accolades and nominations. The song's setting and message were intended for a friend who had left. The Wiz Khalifa's song "see you again" album has become most wanted. There is no doubt why it reached astonishing views since everyone could relate to the emotion implied in the song. The song "See You Again" is a fusion of modern pop music and hip-hop lyricism. You can hear subtle piano notes at the beginning of the music when Puth's smooth, warm voice comes through your speakers; you are immediately put at peace and ease. Realizing he is singing about someone who has died away, you begin to feel a sensation of melancholy wash over you. "See You Again" speaks upon embracing the death of someone close to you while still emphasizing the potential of meeting them again in the future. It is pretty rare for anyone to reproduce the combination of loss, acceptance, and optimism experienced. Everyone, specifically UMians, is reminded that even though we haven't seen our friends in school for a while or met each other in the flesh due to the pandemic, we will still see each other again, not now but in the future. This song also reminds us that even though we have lost our love, friends, and those who are in our immediate vicinity, we should still hold on to the hope that we will see them again," see you again" is not just about the death of individuals we love; it's also about those we miss out on seeing, bonding, and making memories with.
Word Search
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The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao
Mindanao: Land of Filipino Olympians
layout by Maenard Abo-abo
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MINDANAO'S FERVOR. The winning moment of the PH pride in the 2020 Tokyo Oympics.
SPORTS COLUMN
End of an Era
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by Ric Beryl Diola
n September 29, 2021, the only 8-di vision world champion in history and one of the best to ever step foot in the ring, Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao, officially announced his retirement from boxing, ending his boxing career stellar 26-year career with a record of 62-8-2. What does it mean to the sport of boxing now that Pacman is gone? Manny Pacquiao was one of the pillars of modern boxing. His ability in the ring was one of the reasons why many people were attracted to the sport and stuck around for 26 years, tuning in to every one of his fights and sacrificing their time to watch him work. Nowadays, the boxing landscape has changed from intense, hard-hitting showdowns to celebrity escapades for entertainment. YouTubers and social media celebrities like Logan and Jake Paul have dominated the boxing scene today. From fighting fellow YouTubers to former NBA players to MMA fighters and even fighting one of the icons of professional boxing in Floyd Mayweather Jr., the Paul brothers have made boxing more about the entertainment and less about the hard-hitting action people got used to growing up. The increase in celebrity presence in the sport of boxing has diminished a part of its credibility. These social media stars have taken over professional boxing and overshad owed real boxing stars such as
Canelo Alvarez, Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, etc., professional boxers who built their careers clawing their way to the top, putting their body on the line, and solidifying their names as some of boxing's best. How does Pacquiao's retirement change the boxing world? Pacquiao was one of the icons of modern professional boxing. His rivalries and fights with Juan Manuel Marquez and Erik Morales, and moments like his second-round knockout of Ricky Hatton in 2009, where he left the British boxer out cold in the middle of the ring and ending the iconic career of Oscar De La Hoya with an eighth-round technical knockout where his trainer was forced to throw in the towel after Pacquiao was too much for the legendary boxer, got fans excited to watch the sport not for the entertainment but for the hard-hitting action it provides. Today, boxing has become a platform for YouTubers, influencers, and athletes from different sports with no background in boxing to make a name for themselves in the ring. Gone are the days where most people tune in to fight for the action. The spotlight has gone away from the actual boxers who built their names in the ring. Pacquiao's retirement ushers in a new era of boxing, an era where entertainment and fame have more value than the action boxing was supposed to provide to its fans.
by Marcy Nil Ogsoc
he 2020 Tokyo Olympics was postponed for a year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, it's worth the wait as Philippines makes history in winning its first gold Olympic medal. The Philippine delegation- comprised of 19 athletes, has been the most since 2000 Sydney Olympics. Aside from winning its first gold medal, the team also won additional 2 silver and 1 bronze medals for boxing events. Proudly, these four athletes who brought honor to our country are Mindanaoans. In several occasions, Mindanao was put in the limelight due to unfortunate events: terrorist attacks, armed conflicts and unending war against rebels. Despite all of these, Mindanaoans continue to show their talents and skills, most especially in the field of sports. Considering the lack of sports development facilities and financial support in Mindanao, these athletes proved that nothing is impossible once you have the passion and enthusiasm to play. With the historical feat made by our Olympic medal-
ists, the island's tarnished reputation has been replaced by grandeur as the "Land of Promise," reclaiming its former glory. Hidilyn Diaz, a native of Zamboanga City, proved quenched our country's thirst for an Olympic Gold. Diaz was born in Barangay Mampang, Zamboanga City, where her father worked as a tricycle driver. Diaz, as a kid, assisted her parents in selling fish and vegetables while they struggled to raise a family of six children. She made history when she brought home the country's first-ever gold medal in the Olympic Games, winning the Weightlifting Women's 55kg in Tokyo 2020. Also, Mindanao's pride is silver medalist Nesthy Petecio of Davao del Sur, who also made history as the first Filipina to win an Olympic medal in boxing. Carlo Paalam from Cagayan de Oro brought the country another silver medal in Men's flyweight class. Eumir Marcial from Zamboanga delivered a proud bronze medal finish for the Philippines in the Men's middleweight semifinal bout in Tokyo 2020. All three— determined—like Diaz, turned to their
Dawn Macandili: Passion Over Discrimination
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respective sports to help them get out of poverty. They went home with pride and honor as they concluded their Olympic stint with the largest medal haul in the country's Olympic history and the highest medal record among SEA countries. With what they have proven in the field of Sports, truly Mindanao is a land of champions producing victors and warriors, while inspiring young athletes to carry on from their respective field. Gladly, in producing budding Olympians, schools and universities in Mindanao have seen the importance to tighten their support to their athletes, offering athletic scholarships and enhancing their training facilities inside the campus. This act disported their cheer and comfort to the deserving students who have incredible skills in a specific sport that would motivate them to compete internationally. After all, let's put an end to the stereotype that Mindanao is a troubled island of the country. Its name and its people deserve nothing but equal respect, trust, and glory.
SPORTS FEATURE Photo Courtesy: Google Images
by Marcy Nil Ogsoc
" iss Everywhere," a label for her tenacity in keeping the ball alive, her outstanding rolls, digs, receives, and pancakes have extended her height to be noteworthy of numerous awards. Interestingly enough, when Dawn Macandili earned the Most Valuable Player title at the 2016 Philippine Super Liga All-Filipino Conference, she became the first libero in the Philippines to do so. She is also a part of the Philippine National Women's Volleyball Team, which won the 2nd Best Libero title at the 2017 Asian Women's Volleyball Championship. She also competed in the 29th Southeast Asian Games in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Macandili won the 2017 PSL Grand Prix Conference title with F2 Logistics Cargo
Movers and was named Best Libero. Macandili considered Melissa Gohing as her greatest idol in volleyball; Macandili found it challenging to fill the hole left by Gohing, a seasoned libero. She felt enormous pressure to live up to the level set by Gohing, just like any other newcomer who would be replacing a veteran. Various assumptions are coming out comparing the two liberos regarding their height differences, leading to great contrast in performance. Macandili more than makes up for her lack of height with her work ethic and dedication, which she has demonstrated since she began playing volleyball in fifth grade. Indeed, that heart over height, Macandili never saw her height as a hindrance in a sport dominated by taller players. She fought her way
up that placed Choco Mucho PH to 6th Place in the recently concluded 2021 AVC Asian Women's Club Volleyball Championship Thursday in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand. “Kasi ang mataba pwede magpapayat pero ang maliit hindi pwede magpatangkad. I just have to maximize what the Lord has given me," she expressed in an interview with One Sport. Instead of seeing it as a restriction, she saw it as a challenge.
COVID-19 vs Philippine Sports
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he pandemic put a stop to all our plans for the year, from outings with friends and family even to sports. The world was on lockdown for months, with borders closed and people forced to stay at home to protect themselves from catching the virus. The world of sports, just like the rest of the world, stood still, unable to do anything but watch. Sports leagues around the world were put on hold. In the Philippines, the PBA, PVL, UAAP, and the NCAA began to shut down in mid-March of 2020 as the country focused all its resources
by Marcy Nil Ogsoc
to prevent the outbreak of COVID-19. As the pandemic progressed, it was made apparent that people needed to have a sense of normalcy, so sports slowly came back. However, it was clear that as long as COVID exists, sports will never be the same, so the different sports leagues decided to resume play in a "bubble" format, where players were locked down and tested daily to be allowed to play. The term "bubble" was derived from the NBA, which adapted this type of system when they resumed their season. However, this did not stop games from being suspended. In a bubble format, the
PBA and PVL resumed their seasons in late 2020, but games continue to get postponed due to positive cases within their rosters. The UAAP and NCAA leagues are yet to resume ga because face-to-face classes are still not permitted in the country. As sports continue to bounce back and athletes try their best to provide us with the action during these trying times, we must not take their efforts for granted and appreciate their commitment to play their sports even with the risks involved just to give those of us stuck at home a source of entertainment and fun.
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18 In t ra m u ra l s H i g hl i g hts The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao
W
ith the theme, "UM@75: Celebrating the Diamond in the time of Pandemic", the University of Mindanao held this year's Literary and Musical (LitMus) Competition through various online platforms such as the BlackBoard LMS, Google Meet, Google Classroom, and Zoom Meeting Conference in a month-long preparation and celebration of talents, skills, resiliency, and teamwork which started on October 1 to October 29, 2021. Diversity of colors and strengths painted the University's efforts in organizing this year's LitMus through the participation of the different Colleges and the Basic Education Department. Various contests were seen and witnessed, as they all became the symbol of excellence through perseverance. Events such as the Cinephone, TedTalk Alike, TikTok Dance, TikTok Dub, TikTok Skit, and Music Video released the creativity and wit of the students as they showcased their performance and editing skills. On the other hand, Vocal Solo and Duet competition presented the golden voices and confidence of a UMian in the Basic Education Department. Meanwhile, the Balak and Spoken Poetry contest gave the students an arena to show their artistic skills through words and metaphors. Lastly, the Feature, Poem, and Essay Writing collectively displayed the strength of the words in expressing. Winners on the said events were announced last October 29 at 7 pm via Zoom Meeting and Facebook Live. The College of Teacher Education (CTE) conquered all odds as they bagged the award of being the Champion, followed by the College of Arts and Sciences (CASE) and College of Accounting Education (CAE), which placed 1st and 2nd Runners-Up, respectively. Upholding knowledge through information
"I can still remember the first time I had a meeting with the new College of Teacher Education-College Student Government (CTE-CSG) Officers. During the meeting, I informed them of the three primal goals of our administration. One of those is to champion CTE in this year's Litmus competition. I believe that setting goals are very crucial in thriving excellence. Establishing goals and doing the necessary actions to achieve it made CTE win," said Marjon Varona, the current CTE-CSG president on the topic as to what made CTE be hailed as the
70 Literar Musical C Reached an "Diam
70th LitMus Champion. However, the path towards success will never be a flowery one. The respective college facilitators and organizers began their respective recruitment processes on the very first day of October, which proved their willingness to take on the challenges despite the rocky paths along the way. "Choosing suitable participants is the most crucial part of the event. Believing their talent and capacity is vital for us to select the best representative. There are a lot of struggles throughout the process. We encounter delays and
by Winkle
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In t ra m u ra l s H i g hl i g hts 19
The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao
uncertainty in the recruitment, but being resilient is our advantage as a UMian. Fortunately, some of the students excelled in their events. Some of them were allowed to improve themselves and prepare their talents for next year's LitMus", according to Jhun King Bacalla, this year's CASE LitMus Coordinator as to the question regarding the process es which occurred starting at the re cruitment until the announce ment of winners which re sulted to the connection and implications of such happenings to ward the re silience of the UM
0th ary and Competition nd Carved the mond"
e Dumagil
Comm unity, in a chat in t e r v i e w last November 6, 2021. Indeed, it was a voyage that tried and mea sured the strength of a UMian, the teachers, students, and the organizers. Nevertheless, it was the embodiment of working under pressure that established successes, just like how diamonds are being created at the end of the day. "[…] But despite those challenges, we remained resilient because we knew that we could overcome this one, and gladly we were able to submit our entries in all competitions," said Reyland Al-
feche, the current CASE-CSG president, in a chat interview last October 31, 2021. The success stories at the end of each struggle made on this event were all products of the people behind the curtains and stages who managed and stayed strong until the end to deliver quality programs and competition flows. Collective efforts by the Office of the Student Affairs (OSA), the different colleges and student organizations, the LitMus Coordinators, and the students made the struggle turn into a reality of reaching the end of the tunnel with pride and glory. Because of this, the positive impacts never cease to offer opportunities collectively for those who took part in the said event. "LitMus becomes the avenue to our personal improvements: The students presented their talents and skills, boosting their confidence and interpersonal skills. The organizers were challenged to be more innovative and resourceful in facilitating the different events. The University has fulfilled its vision of producing and discovering competitive, talented, and skillful individuals on the basket of a diverse community of learners," Bacalla added. The journey of this year's LitMus and the people who participated and exerted efforts just to carve the diamond and to reflect the 75 years of shining and brave experiences depict the story of every person's struggle during significant challenges and crises. Nothing starts with a bang; thus, it begins with a showcase of progress and the harvest of achievement in the end. Indeed, the University of Mindanao has made diamonds for 75 years already, and it has been a great seven-decade and five years of honing every student and stakeholder to prove their best despite the hurdles along the process because, in the end, it will all be worth remembering and finding inspiration. Upholding knowledge through information
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20 In t ra m u ra l s Re sul t The Official Student Publication of the University of Mindanao
LitMus Winners
CASE
1st runner up
CHAMPION
CTE
CAE
2nd runner up
SHS
champion
JHS
1st runner up
CINEPHONE WINNERS
SPOKEN POETRY WINNERS
1st
2nd
3rd
1st
1st
2nd
CASE
CCE
CBAE
CCE
SHS
JHS
TEDTALK ALIKE WINNERS 1st
2nd
3rd
CTE
CASE
CAE
TIKTOK SKIT WINNERS 1st
2nd
SHS
JHS
2nd
2nd
CAE
CTE
TIKTOK DUB WINNERS
TIKTOK DANCE WINNERS 1st
2nd
3rd
CTE
CBAE
CEE
MUSIC VIDEO WINNERS 1st
2nd
3rd
CHSE
CASE
CEE
ESSAY WRITING WINNERS (ENGLISH) 1st
2nd
SHS
JHS
2nd
SHS
JHS
Upholding knowledge through information
1st
2nd
3rd
CTE
CAE
CCJE
VOCAL SOLO WINNERS 1st
2nd
SHS
JHS
ESSAY WRITING WINNERS (FILIPINO) VOCAL DUET WINNERS 1st
2nd
SHS
JHS
POEM WRITING WINNERS (ENGLISH) 1st
BALAK WINNERS
1st
2nd
SHS
JHS
POEM WRITING WINNERS (FILIPINO) FEATURE WRITING WINNERS
1st
2nd
1st
2nd
3rd
SHS
JHS
CTE
CASE
CAE