The Union Times June-September 2017 by The Union Times

CO LL EG E

57 %

As UC enrolment hikes, complete SHS courses offered

6% 2 H S

Union College’s enrolment rate for 20172018 has increased 2.36% than last academic year.

CO UC

UCSIPS 17%

Lola and Her Longnut Dreams Most Unionites know Lola Longnut but not everyone knows the struggle behind her long and sweet life. story on page 11

CONTINUE ON PAGE 5

the union times PROMOTING THE CULTURE OF EXCELENCE SINCE 1947 UNION COLLEGE, SANTA CRUZ, LAGUNA VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1

JUNE - SEPTEMBER 2017

HIGHER STANDARDS

‘Project-Based Learning’ boosts Unionites global competence

within the times

by Axeleth Dahonog

ADmin tightens policy for latecomers

Union College implemented Project-Based Learning (PBL) Program this academic year to heighten Unionites academic competence that is at par with global standards.

Union College Community Senior High (UCCOSH) implemented tightened rules for late comers, which started August, to address the growing number of students not entering the school premises on time.

According to Dr. Rogelio Caluza, Dean of School of Information and Technology & Hotel & Restaurant Administration (SITHOA) and the Resource person during the faculty seminar on implementation of PBL, the program helps in the improvement of Creativi-

ty, Collaboration, Communication and Critical Thinking. “Students will be solving and working on real world problems, then their output will be exhibit to the public,” Caluza said on an interview. The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Depart-

>>> STORY ON PAGE 5 On Random Drug Test

opinion

1k Magic Operations With only 1000 pesos, can our Human Rights survive?

>>> STORY ON PAGE 7 SCIENCE

Unionites risk health over street food Four out of five Unionites say they eat street foods without concrete awareness on what it may cause them.

>>> STORY ON PAGE 5

ment of Education (DepEd) implemented the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) last 2012. As a response, Union College furthered the idea of OBE into PBL, a more realized paradigm. International Standards “Our chairman of the board, Dr. David Sobrapeña is very proud because PBL is sa ibang bansa especially sa US, so dito sa Pilipinas, it was tried before during 1970s sa isang school pbl boosts competence

students take turns in making prefume as part of their PBL

Photo by Alexisse Leighn Rico

page 5

Dr. Noroña: We will localize the policies by Axeleth Dahonog

r. Lito F. Noroña, Chief Academic Officer, saw no problem with Random Drug Testing if conducted in Union College as per the Department of Education order to determine and rehabilitate students involved illegal drugs. The DepEd order No. 40, s. 2017 issued last August 8 aimed to test students from public and private

schools for possible drug use. “Order na kasi sya eh, tsaka kahit pa naman noon eh ang school ay dapat magpa-Drug Testing” Noroña said in an interview. He added that the school supervise the drug testing especially to the College Level Criminology students. “Dalawa yan eh, dun sa mga incoming if papasok pa lang sila syempre hindi na natin sila tatang-

gapin and yung andyan meron dito (DepEd memorandum) may provisions dito na tutulungan silang ma-rehabilitate plus pwede mag-implement ang school ng sarili nilang policy from DepEd’s provisions,” Noroña added. The school has its own rules of discipline which includes the drug use of students that is stated on the student’s manual as a major violation LOcalize drug test policies

3/57

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cases of Japanese Encephalitis are recorded in Laguna but Laguna Medical Center says there are no possibilities of outbreak

>>> STORY ON PAGE 14

Unionites gather hands-on experience on annual trip Students of Union College acquired hands-on experience on different fields as they participate in the annual field trip, September 21. The field trip organized by Hunnypot Educational Tours’ Company aimed to develop students’ skills as they get exposed to real-life settings. Sweet Harmony Gardens located in Taytay, Rizal was where the students experienced the application of what is being taught inside the classroom.

>>> STORY ON PAGE 4

the union times

2 NEWS

SCHOOL

NATION

WORLD

words shall be written by late comers

Filipinos satisfied with DU30 Admin

people killed in Manchester terror attack

75%

300

story on page 5

story on page 4

UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

story on page 4

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017

ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

‘Jeepney Modernization’ to affect Unionites bigtime by Joshua Nicandro

The Department of Transport (DOTr) will push full implementation of jeepney modernization this year for over 15-year-old Public Utility Vehicle (PUV). This jeepney modernization shall cover nationwide effect which outraged jeepney operators and owners. Out of this program, commuters are projected to be the most affected since most jeepney operators association in the whole country expressed the extreme length that the program may cover. Mr. Rex Leron, the President of the Pagsanjan Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association (PaJODA), confirmed that there are 130 registered jeepneys roaming from the municipality of Pagsanjan to Sta. Cruz. Out of 130 jeepneys, 129 of them are included to the modernization. Only 1 jeepney driver will be able to rove to Sta. Cruz- the municipality where Union College is located.

“Hindi maganda yan, dapat pinag-aaralan at pinag-iisipan muna bago ipatupad, dapat iniisip muna ang mga sector na maapektuhan gaya na lang ng sector namin,” Mr.Leron said. He added “ang dapat kasi, yung jeep namin kung panget ang makina, ayusin na lang hindi yung basta papaltan na lang ng gusto nilang i-propose na e-jeep; imbis na bumili ako ng ganon, bibili na lang ako ng Toyota Grandia.” With only one of the jeepneys with the route Pagsanjan - Sta. Cruz and vice versa left after the program, Unionites shall receive great impact. Students coming from Pagsanjan, Binan and Pagsawitan would be the most affected not including the service of Pagsanjan jeepneys around Sta. Cruz town proper. “Mahihirapan po kami ng so-

bra, kasi ngayon pa lang na walang ganyan (jeepney modernization), maraming mga pagkakataon talaga na mahirap makasakay, paano pa pag natuloy ‘yan?” Axel Lumba, a student from Pagsanjan stated. Leron stated that if this modernization continued, there’s a huge possibility for a fare hike. “Ang boundary na hinihingi kasi nila ay P800, e ang boundary naming dito ay P400 lang. Kung ihuhulog naming sa kanila yung P400 na yun, wala ng kikitain ang operator, paano pag nasira pa yung jeep? E di wala ng kikitain yung tao,” he explained. The Department of Finance (DOF) made estimation over the next five years of what will be the total cost of this program and it turned out to be around P417.3 billion to be subsidized by the government. UT

on pagsawitan traffic jam

Bus companies clarify traffic cause

by Hannah Reyes

wo major bus companies explained to The Union Times the main causes of traffic congestion in Pagsawitan, Sta. Cruz, Laguna in response to claims that buses are the major source of the problem. HM Transport and DLTB, two of the three bus companies in the neighboring barangays of Pagsawitan, Sta. Cruz and Biñan, Pagsanjan both said that the traffic congestion is mainly caused by other factors although they admitted that buses do contribute to the problem. Dexter Noleal, Officer-In-Charge of HM Transport said that they start operation at 2:00 am and that they experience traffic at latter part of the day. “Hindi naman dito sa station napupuno ng pasahero,” Noleal said. “May interval ang pag-alis

UC RCY launches ‘Dugsong Buhay’

R Pagwsawitan Intersection commonly experiences traffic congestion on rush hours.

ng bus kada ilang minuto lamang at sa mga susunod na bayan pa masasakyan ang bus,” he added. Since the sizes of buses cover most of the way, the short intervals of bus departure cause manageable traffic near the bus stations. “Merong mga traffic enforcer from the municipal gov-

ernment tuwing peak hours. Meron din naman kaming mga security guards para maayos ang traffic,” Noleal explained. The traffic management offices of Pagsanjan and of the province assign enforcers to manage traffic congestion in the area, especially in Pagsawitan continued on page 5

gather awareness on prevention

nionites signed the campaign to stop the spread of HIV-AIDS as they gathered awareness on a seminar sponsored by the Provincial Government of Laguna, UC Study Mall, August 28. Mr. Cyril Madiz, head of Laguna Youth Development Affairs Office (YDA Laguna), informed junior and senior high school students on Human Immunodeficiency Virus

SAVING LIVES ONE DROP AT A TIME

by Lenin Osio and Adriana Tolentino

Unionites sign post against HIV-AIDS, by Yra Bautista

COMMUTER’S PROBLEM. Students of Union College gets in a Public Utility Jeepney (PUJ) just before the implementation of the planned Jeepney Modernization Program projected to cause hitches. [Lenin Osio]

(HIV) acquisition and prevention as well as its possible development to Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). “Youth nowadays are very risky; you tend to do unsafe things out of love,” Madiz said in the seminar. Not only was the plain discussion of HIV-AIDS the content of the seminar, but also the tendencies of youngster to acquire and transmit the in-

fection due to the presence of peer pressure and intimacy. The seminar also opened the minds of the participants on the health risks of smoking and illegal drugs as well as topics on responsible commitment and early pregnancy. Unionites signed the poster of the event as they take responsibility of raising awareness on HIV-AIDS and the other talked topics. UT

ed Cross Youth of Union Colege (UC RCY) amassed Dugsong Buhay Bloodletting Activity, August 23, as response to the vital needs of blood donation for the Philippine National Red Cross, held at Union College Study Mall. Fifty seven blood donors participated in the project which was able to gather 21 type A blood, 19 type B blood, 16 type O blood and one type AB blood. “Isa lang naman ang goal namin, ito yung makapag-bigay tayo ng maraming dugo para dun sa mga taong hindi afford bumili ng dugo na kakailanganin nila pag nagkakaron sila ng sakit, isang halimbawa na ay yung mga taong nagkakasakit ng dengue,” Man David Guevarra, President of UC RCY shared. While Dr. Lito F. Noroña,

Director of Red Cross Laguna, clarified that the activity will not only benefit the people who need blood donations immediately but also the students of Union College for ten percent of the total donated bags shall be allotted for the needs of students, faculty or personnel of the said institution. Nurses of Laguna Red Cross also aided the activity; they clarified that the main qualification of blood donation is one’s willingness to help others. “By giving blood, it is not just yourself you are helping but other people as well for it increases survival rate for those who needs blood severely,” Ms. Bacsafara, one of the nurses explained. Guevarra further explained that UC RCY is now on its phase of planning other related student activities in the future. UT

bags of blood donation were gathered during the ‘Dugsong Buhay’ activity

UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

the union times news

g11

Bonifacio dominated the competitions of the Buwan ng Wika Celebration with their championship in Dulsayawit, Lakan ng Wika, Musikang FIlipino and winning places in Spoken Poetry and Sanaysay Larawan.

MAPAGBAGO!

UC feasts Filipino’s dynamism

by Ronna Tabao

UT scribes in prep for presscon by Lenin Osio

riters of The Union Times underwent journalism training, August 19, in preparation for the coming press conferences and as training for the publication of campus releases. The School-Based Press Conference provided lectures and trainings in the various categories of campus journalism with focus on its role in the 21st century. “As people live in the era of technology and convenience, journalists should be equally aware of how proper delivery of information should be done,” said Mr. John Carlos Alvarez, Assistant Publication Coordinator. Trainers of the said press conference were collegiate journalists from The Gears Publication. Student writers participated in lectures and trainings for writing, art and broadcasting categories of campus journalism. Winners of the activity shall be trained furtherly in their categories for the following weeks. UT

Science dept offers special enhancement program by Menard Garcia

nionites enriched their abilities and skills in Science as the department launched one-month special enhancement program. DNA: The Secret of Life was what the Science department chose as the main subject for the enrichment activity. Enhancement programs correspond to additional grades that the students may get based on their performance. “We invited everyone to participate but we made effort in encouraging STEM students and college student with Natural Science subjects,” Ms. Jovelyn Panganiban, one of the proponents of the program together with Engr. Alex Carandang explained. The enhancement program had five sessions which took place every Tuesday of Aug. 22 to Sept. 26 at 2:00-5:00 pm. UT

BEYOND CONVENETIONS. Hannah Reyes of Grade 11 Bonifacio amplifies her concern on the deteoriating use of the Filipino Language as she competes in this year’s Spoken Poetry competition during Buwan ng WIka Celebration, Aug. 30. [Joel Idang]

The continuous growth of the Filipino language was the highlight of this year’s national celebration of Buwan ng Wika while Union College partook through the conduct of varied activities. Samahang Filipino of Union College spearheaded this year’s celebration, August 2930, as the students from all levels participated in the activities focused on embracing Filipino as a growing language while keeping in mind its conventions. Ms. Uzziel Joy Arvesu, adviser of Samahang Filipino, provided insights on this year’s theme as she formally opened the event. “Layunin ng pagdiriwang na mapaigting ang paggamit ng wikang Filipino sa matuwid at mabisang pagpapahayag at komunikasyon tungo sa bisyon ng matuwid na daan ng dangal at kaunlaran,”

Arvesu explained as clarification for the purpose of the celebration. The event was further given value by the speech-lecture presentation of this year’s guest speaker, Mr. Noriel Del Rosario, Filipino Professor. “Tayo ang tinatawag na Henerasyon ng Wika sa Facebook,” Del Rosario stated emphasizing how social media has affected language use. Del Rosario’s speech was aided by a multi-media presentation complementing his speech’s main message which is the interference of advanced technology and social media to the

growth of the Filipino language. ‘PA-A-NO’ Standing by the theme of the celebration is the inclusion of Spoken Poetry competition, an internet-trending way of delivering poetry. Ruth Ponce of Grade 11 Jaena made the word ‘Paano’ resound in the whole study mall as she vigorously asked the audience how Filipino language was forgotten; Ponce ended up second behind Thomas Jalen Lim, winner, from the same year and section. Grade 11 Bonifacio also bagged awards in the celebration with Thricia Sederia championing Musikang Filipino and the section’s representation topping turn to page 4

Embarking the launch of uc 2017 theme

Opening Convocation goes ‘Mabuhay Philippines’ by Preslyn Pamilacan

eing a long standing tradition, Union College conducted its Opening Convocation jazzed up by Philippine Festival performances from different departments. Sinulog, Maskara and Bangkero Festivals composed the performances from Union College School of Integrated Preparatory Studies (UCSIPS), Union College Community Senior High (UCCOSH)

and

College Level students. The performances further signalled the unveiling of this year’s theme delivered by the Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Mona Lisa Dabao. “As we face the challenges of the modern world, this year we stand by the theme ‘Union College Education: Preparing Students for Innovative Learning Strategies for the 21st Century’,’’ Dr. Dabao Introduced.

The newly elected student council presidents, UCCOSH Axeleth A. Dahonog, UCSIPS Marbie G. Tope, College Kath Lyn B. Flores took oath and delivered their inaugural address. The charges to the officers were stated by Dr. Rogelio S. Caluza the dean of SiTHOA (School of Information and Technology, and Hotel and Restaurant Administration) as challenge for a better year in office for all. UT

BANGKERO. UCCOSH students welcome the Union College community with their Bangkero Festival Presentation, one of the three student presentations at this year’s Opening Convocation. [Joel Idang]

Senior High bags gold at GOG tilt by Lenin Osio

enior High stude capped this year’s Game of the Generals (GOG) Tournament, July 29, organized by the Union College Mind Games Club (UCMGC) as one of the series of mind and board games annual competitions. Ivan Jimuel Dugan, Grade12 student of Humanities and Social Sciences strand surpassed opponents from the high school to college department as he paved his way to GOG supremacy. “It is a challenge for me, but sometimes you need to know yourself, or maybe find yourself in other way that no one can accomplish” Ivan said explaining the strategy he showcased as he won the competition. Game of the Generals or known locally as Salpakan, which requires its players to move ‘general’ pieces strategically to reach the opponent’s base, is an educational war game invented in the Philippines by Sofronino H. Pasola, Jr. in 1970. “We believe that this will be a great educational experience for the students” said Hannah Reyes of UCMGC. “Letting our fellow students experience these kinds of activity helps them develop their strategizing skills’’ she added. The UCMGC will conduct other mind-games tournaments later this school year. UT

NEWS

LEDGE by Lizel Santillan and Rachelle Alay

Students get along in annual acquaintance party Union College students from grade school to high school resounded cheers and laughters as they met and befriended one another in the annual acquaintance party, June 28, UC Study Mall and ASV Theater. The one-day activity was colored with special presentations, games and food gatherings. UT

UC GSP partakes in Troop Leader’s Coneference Girl Scouts of Union College participated in Laguna Council Troop Leader’s Conference and Workshop, July 21-22, in order to advance knowledge in troop assisting. Five students from Union College School of Integrated Preparatory Studies (UCSIPS) paticipated in the said event. “Students shall use what theyhave learned in the troop conference whenthey get back to school,” said Ms. Alyssa Yosolon, one of the GSP coordinator. UT

UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

news the union times

Admin tightens policy for latecomers from page 1 by Menard Garcia

Mr. Rod Faustine R. Dael, UCCOSH Administrator revised the rules through the initiatives of UCCOSH Student Council who later realized the rule implementation. Late comers are tasked to write an essay explaining their late arrival plus their ideas on punctuality, 300 words for the first offense and 500 words for the second offense. If students exceeded two offenses, their parents shall be informed of their behavior; further, essay should still be written and the student’s phone shall be temporarily confiscated. "The purpose of this rule is to discipline and prepare the student for their future work,” Dael clarified. Union College School of Integrated Preparatory Studies (UCSIPS), the elementary and high school department, has already been implementing the same policy. "I think the rules had been effective because right now the numbers of late students decreased," Dael stated as the numbers dropped to only three to five late comers compared to a minimum of ten before the implementation. The implementation of this rule is in accordance to the school’s core values. UT

NEWS

LEDGE by Lizel Santillan and Rachelle Alay

Intensity III quake shocks Laguna, Unionites Two earthquakes shocked Laguna and other neighboring provinces, August 11, while classes and other school activities were being held at Union College. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported two incidents; first, a 6.3 magnitude earthquake which hit Nasugbu and another, 6.1 mangnitude in Lian, both in Batangas. Laguna was reported to experience Intensity III level of shock. Students immediately evacuated the school premises as per the procedures of the drills which took place earlier this year. UT

Lannie, Maring halt UC classes Typhoons Lannie and Maring caused class suspension in Laguna, September 12 and 13, in order to prevent accidents and unlikely events due to the typhoons’ impact. The province was declared to be under the state of calamity on Sept 12 afternoon. No significant damages were recorded in the school premises. UT

Real life exposure

Unionites gather hands-on experience on annual trip From page1 by Lenin Osio and Rosh Rosales

Included in the Sweet Field Trip was the visitation of a bakeshop where the students witnessed the baking process just before their eyes. More so, the same location introduced the students to edible gardens and welcomed the students to a replica of traditional Filipino Village. Another point of visitation is the Arts and Crafts Company inside the location where the students saw export crafts that are proudly Filipino made. Highlighting the tour was the restaurant management experience where students got to know more about the process of food serving and proper restaurant etiquettes. Participants of the tour also tried to do napkin folding on their own. “It is a very interactive way of learning and discovery and I like arts and crafts that they exhibit, I enjoyed walking around the exhibit and seeing many artworks which they made to export to other countries,” Eunard Barquilla said. Following the morning ac-

DO IT YOURSELF. Participants of Union College Field Trip 2017 experiences the process of napkin folding as an experiential task part of the tour events, Sweet Harmony Gardens, Rizal, Sept. 21. [photo courtesy of Mr. Rod Faustine Dael]

tivity was the witnessing of the onstage theatre act of a classic fairytale Beauty and the Beast directed by Joy Virata by Repertory Philippines in Greenbelt Mall 1, Makati City. “I’ve never expected such extraordinary performance of the actors and actresses, and their concept of course, they

have their own story of Beauty and the Beast, it is magical indeed,” Shaina Reyes said. Students were assured of their safety during the tour with two insurances coming from Paramount Life and General Insurance Corporation and from Oriental Assurance Corporation. UT

In compliance to national smoke ban

UC asks cooperation from cigarette vendors by Mhyrren Bless Morales

nion College (UC) reached to out to vendors near the campus for the tighter implementation of Smoking Policies. With the Executive Order No. 26 series of 2017 which bans smoking from public places, Union College aimed to tighten its pre-existing policy for students and faculty. Included in the old UC Students Diary is the policy for smoking near the school vicinity

which should be 50 meters away. This policy had been revised as stated by Mr. Rod Faustine Dael, Administrator. From 50 meters, the ban is extended to 100 meters away from the campus. On the other hand, the problem in implementation arises due to the selling of cigarettes to students from the stores outside. “We have already exerted effort in talking to them (vendors),” Dr. Lito F. Noroña said in an interview. “We try to under-

stand them because its business, but of course, we have our policies and besides we have an Executive Order now,” He added. Establishment owners or vendors caught will be fined 5,000 Pesos or imprisonment for not more than 30 days based on the Executive Order. Students who will be caught to violate the school policy shall be warned at first while disciplinary measures shall be observed in the succeeding cases. UT

Buwan ng Wika celebration from page 3

the

Dulsayawit competition. Adding to the success of 11 Bonifacio was the awarding of David Valdellon as Lakan ng Wika while Lourdes Onglengco, college student, was hailed Mutya ng Wika. UCSIPS Celebration Union College School of Integrated Preparatory Studies also conducted a parallel celebration of Buwan ng Wika. The program highlighted Filipino Language and Culture appreciation through the conduct of different competitions contested by UC Color Teams. Purple Panthers dominated the event after winning two of the three contests, Guhit-Awit and Sayaw ng lahi while Red Titans won the Tulawit event. UCSIPS students further joined the celebration by wearing Filipino cultural attires. UT

no where safe now

Terrorism attacks the world; reaches the biggest cities up to the smallest countries by The Union Times

No nation or territory may be spared from terrorism as how it seems today. Only this year, a number of terror attacks had occurred in different places in the world. Thirteen people died in the attack in the streets of Spain last August 17. Another attack in London Bridge killed eight people. Even at a concert even, terror attacks hap-

pened. It was at the Manchester leg of an Ariana Grande Concert where at least 22 people died. From the biggest cities, terrorist had reached attacks to small countries. Up until now, the Philippines is struggling with siege in Marawi, caused by the Maute Isis group. The Armed Forces of the Philippines had reported 45 ci-

vilians killed by the terrorists and 97 government forces killed in action. This number still grows as the siege continues despite the declaration of Martial Law. The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria had claimed responsibility for most of the attacks. At present, ISIS is trying to dominate Syria, Iraq and Libya among others. This

is despite the nations going against the terrorist group. The United Nations had launched agency to counter this problem, the UN Counter Terrorism Committee with 15 major member states including the United States and the United Kingdom which the maintenance of the international peace and security is the main responsibility. UT

10 = Highest Impact

data from Global Terrorism Index 2016

the union times special report From the

Front Page

PBL Boosts Competence na very progressive but it didn’t work because that time wala pa naman computer” Caluza said. According to Mr. Caluza, the PBL is an experiential learning, since the technology is already present, it is more accessible to the learners to see or criticize if their work will be possible. He also added that the PBL program improves the 21st Century Skills of learners that is essential in learning and to reach the performance standard in a modern way. Student’s Perception Student from Union College have two opposing views regarding on the implementation of PBL in the school’s curriculum. “I am pro for the PBL program kasi nakakatulong siya na makadadag ng panibagong information at bukod don, nadedevelop pa ‘yung skills ng students then through PBL, dun nadidiscover ang husay at kung ano pang abilities ng isang individual tsaka dito din makikita ‘yung diskarte, patience na matatapos ang di lang isang PBL at pati na rin ‘yung multitasking kasi as what have said earlier, it is another way para matuto ang mga students,” according to Eunard Barquilla, one of the students who was for the implementation of PBL program. But some students were also not in favour for the implementation of PBL program, according to one student, “Against hindi dahil mahirap, pero sana kasi hindi kada subject isang PBL sana manlang isang PBL lang sa lahat ng subject. Napapagod din kasi kaming mga estudyante sana hindi lang UT sabay sabay,” she said.

Localize Drug Test Policies and offense that is punishable by suspension. “We will act of course by following the due process and we shall abide the DepEd order… and we will localize the policies to fit the needs of our institution,” he added. Noroña also said that faculty and any other school officials shall not be spared from this kind of activity especially when there would be any report involving them to illegal drug usage. UT

Increased Enrolment Last academic year’s enrolment rate for the College students dropped down from 877 to 762; UCSIPS with last year’s enrolment rate of 238 now lowered to 218 students. Despite the down rate of the students who enrolled in College and UCSIPS department, the Union College Community Senior High (UCCOSH) department doubled the last academic year’s enrolment rate. From 165 increased to 331 students. With the increase of SHS, complete strands are now offered. This academic year UCCOSH offered Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics with a total of 23 Grade 11 students

Traffic Cause From page 2

intersection, which is in between the bus stations. When asked if the speed of the buses affect the traffic, Noleal said that they are following policies of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) which is 80 kilometers per hour in expressways. Boy Maderal, DLTB Area Manager, said the same responses as Noleal. “Marami nang nagreklamo sa amin. Umabot na pinatwag kami ng isang konshal sa bayan at sa barangay,” Maderal shared on the claims that they cause traffic. Maderal further noted that the Laguna Traffic Management Office (LTMO) assigns traffic officer in their area to manage traffic. “Meron naming officer dyan, pero dinaratnan lang din kami ng traffic. Bago pa lumabas ang mga bus, traffic na,” Maderal said explaining that the buses only contributes minimally in the traffic congestion. Both of the companies agreed that the main causes of traffic are irresponsible parking along the streets of Pagsawitan and the improper loading and unloading of passengers from jeepneys. UT

du30 at his first year The Plans. The Projects. The Problems. by Axeleth Dahonog

resident Rodrigo Roa Duterte earmarked hiss first year in the executive office since his oath being the 16th president of the Republic of the Philippines. His campaign “War on Drugs” was one of the issues in our country that includes the alleged extrajudicial killings. The Philippine National Police (PNP) took responsibility for this program of the Duterte Administration. Politicians like Leila de Lima and Antonio Trillanes were against the Duterte’s administration divulging unstated bank accounts, connections to the drug lords, and other illegal activities that the both parties were involved are opened to the public

creating heated argument between the two. Duterte also tied relationships with China through bilateral meetings creating 24 billion dollars for the investments in the Philippines, also sealed deals with Brunei and Japan. Last May, the president declared Proclamation No. 216 or Martial Law in Mindanao after Maute group terrorized the Marawi City burning infrastructures and killing people, but some protesters slam Duterte due to the implementation of Martial law condemning killings under his administration. The implementation of 911 emergency hotlines has been also launched nationwide by the PNP.

In the first year of his administration, Filipinos recalled what happened during his administration and sighted what is the improvement of the country within his stay in the office. Seventy-five percent of adult Filipinos who are satisfied with the Duterte administration’s performance (as compared to only 9 percent who were not), according to the latest nationwide public survey conducted by an independent research institute from March 25 to 28. Further, 6.4 Percentage economic growth in the first quarter of the year. Although this was below many analysts’ expectations and the lowest quarterly expansion in a year, the Philippine

10 05 08 years passport validation as per RA 10928

economy remained one of the fastest growing in Asia Pacific. Analysts have praised Duterte for tasking reputable figures with stewardship of the economy. They expect the Philippines will continue to be one of the region’s best performers. The government is aiming for a growth of 6.5-7.5 percent this year. The amount of money in US dollars that Duterte said will make up China’s investments in the Philippines due to his efforts to improve bilateral ties between our two countries that soured under his predecessor over competing territorial claims in the South

years drivers’ license validation as per RA 10930

China Sea has reached 24 billion dollars. The figure includes $15 billion in investments and $9 billion in soft loans that were committed during his visit to China last year. However critics say the actual money hasn’t come in yet and there are fears the country will not really benefit due to issues such as corruption, lack of transparency, and hidden conditions that will favor China. Analysts also fear that Duterte is yielding the Philippines’ claims in the South China Sea to China in exchange for the money. The were 422 people —

billion allotment for free tuition this year as per RA 10931

militants, soldiers, and civilians —were reported killed in the fighting between Islamist militants and government forces that began on May 23 in the southern city of Marawi. The fighting, which continues, is the biggest crisis faced by Duterte on his first year as president. He declared martial law across the southern Philippines, home to 20 million people, in response to the fighting. He said the militants were trying to establish a caliphate in the south for the Islamic State group.

“Here is an immoral woman.”

“He was a Filipino soldier, period.”

“Someday, karma will come”

-DU30 on Senator Leila De Lima

-DU30 on late president Ferdinand Marcos

-DU30 threatens media and media owners data from PDI, ABS-CBN, GMA, Rappler

the union times

6 OPINION UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

“...this ‘no homework policy’ can be anothr reason for some teachers to give an alternative and heavier task...” The Fugitive | Opinion Column on page 9

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017

ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

ASEAN living

salient axis Axeleth Dahonog

The Philippines is a member of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) where countries get together to talk about the progress of each nation. Since it has been established, the countries who are involved strengthen the foundation and harmony with other nations. The ASEAN Integration have a lot of benefits in terms of the country’s economic growth, more job opportunity, easier travel, better services, flow of goods, investments and good relationships among other countries. Through this countries will be able to help the Philippines in case of inevitable problems that the government may face. There will be more opportunities for Filipinos and we can improve the country and give the best to the people. Since the country will be leading this year, it would be possible that the country’s major problems will be prioritized. It has been 50 years since the establishment of ASEAN, and this year, the Philippines will be the chairman of ASEAN Summit. This year the theme will be “Partnering for Change, Engaging the World,” and priorities were settled including the peace and stability of the region, security and cooperation, a resilient ASEAN and becoming a model of regionalism. They also include the welfare of its citizen, human rights, civil service, health and nutrition and cultural diversity. Being an open community, ASEAN Integration shall provide a better connection not only within the administrations of its member states but also with the relationship among the diversed cultural community. ASEAN envisions a peaceful, stable and resilient Community as an outward-looking region within a global community of nations, while maintaining ASEAN centrality. It is for the improvement not only for the countries but for the betterment of the people. ASEAN 2017 proves that we will work as one to promote unity in diversity for the breakthrough of its nations. UT

the union times Editorial Board and Staff Joshua Nicandro | Editor-in-Chief Axeleth Dahonog | Associate Editor Yra Bautista | Managing Editor Lenin Osio | News Head Junette Abad | Sports Head Ashanti Bandillo | Science Head Hannah Mariz Reyes | Features Head Jeroll Opinion, Thomas Jalen Lim | Artists Joel Idang, Lois Sales | Chief Photojourn Arlan Fesalbon, Kimerly Sayse | Photojourn Ira Jenille Castro, Lance Pamatmat | Lay-out Staff Dijette Abayari, Abby Osio, Adriana Tolentino, Aiza Cacalda, Cynthjhune Dela Torre, Donita Mae Punongbayan, Jamesa Ruazol, Lizel Santillan, Menard Garcia, Mhyrren Bless Morales, Preslyn Pamilacan, Rachelle Mae Alay, Ronna Lineth Tabao, Rosh Besai Rosales, Ruth Ponce, Alecksandra Monique Bautista, Alan Luis Jaime Tan, Paul Francis Teodoro, Gabriel Joseph Brion, Alexisse Leighn Rico, Trisha Erika Esmayor John Carlos Alvarez Assistant Student Publications Coordinator Sahlee Gallardo Student Publications Coordinator Dr. Lito F. Norona Chief Academic Officer

EDITORIAL

keyboard

warriors

he Philippines has now caught the attention of the world with the death fiasco and the out of control president. From the numbers of death during the president’s first few months up to the continuous months of the Marawi Siege, there will surely be something to be talked about in the Philippines. Now, we have succeeding deaths of youngsters who were allegedly involved in illegal deeds, another icing to top the controversy galore. With these issues come the opinion of people, may they be Filipinos, and may they be not and what other way to express these opinions but through social media. It is free; everyone can access. That is the very reason why social media is now plagued with twisted principles and unintellectual discussions. Now Assistant Secretary of the Presidential Communications Operations Office, Mocha Uson, gained her political popularity through her rabid support to the president made evident by her social media profile, Mocha Uson Blog. The said blog site contained nothing but a plethora of hail to the president and the myriad of hate to the people against him. Clearly, not everyone lives inside their fences; hence not everyone shares the same sentiments. With times like this, what happens? What else than the absolute war of Keyboard Warriors. Filipinos tend to fight over the things that circulate in the social media world, while in fact many Filipinos are not the one who receive the direct effect of the issue. Whenever accounts like Mocha Uson Blog would post something good about Duterte, there would surely be someone to call them Dutertards. Then comes the battle between Dutertards and the Dilawans. People fight over things that should be of the least priority like combating for the pride of the president or complaining about his tone. Social media should be used to expose what is really happening right now. Get enough with proving that the administration is becoming faulty. Use social media to open the eye of the people that the situation now seems like the elixir to the drug menace is the genocide of the impoverished. UT

UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

the union times opinion

1k magic

operations tamiya’s point Joshua S. Nicandro

Recently, the House of the Representatives made a move to reduce the budget of the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) for its 2018 budget from P687 million to a mere P1000. This was an attempt by the administration of President Duterte to stop agencies going after political abuses, specifically on the context of contemporary war on drugs that claimed thousands of lives including a bunch of youngsters. Since the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) was stipulated through the1987 Philippine Constitution, “approved annual appropriations of the commission shall be automatically and regularly released” as per Section 17 Article XII of the constitution. CHR’s performance may not be satisfactory to many Filipino citizens but its mandate as a constitutional body is important in combating human rights. Instead of defunding it, Congress should increase its resources and ensure that it fulfills that mandate. It’s very hard for a family to use P1000 for a budget what more for an institution

that is tasked to protect the rights of every person in this society. For 2018, the Department of Budget and Management included in the P3.7 trillion national budget the amount of P687million for the CHR, but House Speaker Panteleon Alva-

“...the House action is seen as a move against the concept of human rights, and this is at the core of our culture as a nation.” rez stated that CHR was not doing their job and has committed the sin of criticizing the many killings that have been connected to the police war on drugs. “Maybe Congress will review their decision,” President Duterte said. He was critical of CHR Chairman Chito Gascon

tortuous

curriculum scrutineer Yra E. Baustista

The Commission of Higher Education together with the Department of Education broke barriers of stigma about the K to 12 program. As of the year 2018, all of the students from the old curriculum who failed to enroll in college and drop outs from colleges are forced to enter the K to 12 transition program or the Lifelong Learner Track. They will be shifted to a new educational curriculum where they cannot proceed to college unless they graduate senior high school. Although, the program aims to help the students who graduated from the old curriculum attain a much higher education. Even before the implementation of the K to 12 program in the Philippines, people had drastically reacted about the way of the government on implementing another two years of high school in the four year journey of the secondary education that a student must take. But every-

thing is in the past now, senior high school students are surpassing the expectation of educators in the country; as they make

“...they will be offered to get vocational courses and apply for jobs while they are saving for their college years.” name on the highest passing rate of Technical Vocational courses. As students of the new curriculum, it is not that bad to undergo the Lifelong learner track for the students that are from the old educational curriculum. For some circumstances they will be offered to get vocational courses and apply for jobs while they

but refused he had anything to do with the House decision to lessen the CHR budget. The senate led by Senate President Koko Pimentel, is expected to restore the original CHR budget. Sen. Panfillo Lacson, who had sponsored the CHR budget in the Senate Budget Hearings, said he expects the senators to cross lines to take a unified position on this issue as it received criticisms from various sectors. among them are the United Nations special rapporteur, the human rights group Karapatan, the Bagong Alyansang Makabayan, the labor group Juan Manggagawa, Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo and Balanga Bishop Ruperto Santos. “This may set a dangerous precedent, especially among our constitutional bodies, including the Supreme Court,” Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said. He also said giving the CHR a P1000 annual budget amounts to abolition of a constitutional body. But even without this legal issue which threatens our government structure, the House action is seen as move against the concept of human rights, and this is at the core of our culture as a nation. These are dangerous times. A country without human rights is like a painting without a canvas. When the institution tasked to protect human rights is threatened, those who believe and advocated good things cannot be just bystanders. There are some individuals, who already expressed their indignation of the move, but we need a mass movement; we need to move as UT one.

are saving for their college years. This new program sure does show a bit of another expense for some people because they already graduated from high school and yet with this new memorandum they are going back. On the other hand, the Department of Education is funding and giving vouchers to all the students who will undergo the K to 12 program. At the very end, our government is trying its whole best to make our education helpful to all. Plus the free tuition in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), the burden of being education is lessened now. It is better this way that our government is putting so much effort so that, more and more students can attain education, and be the future heroes of the next generation. And through the Lifelong learner track, students will succeed. This is an opportunity being offered to all in order to attain education that is of international standards, education that will help Filipinos to get employed in the global setting more easily than before. The government should stay true to their words about funding new students of this new program because even the students of the K to 12 curriculum are having a hard time about school’s fees. What more will happen to the incoming students of the lifelong learner track? But as of now all we can do is to look forward for the future of the PhilUT ippines and its Education.

unbounded from books opinion’s op Jeroll I. Opinion

In today’s generation, various aspects in our society had changed, including the medium students use to acquire knowledge in the outer world. Books, magazines and other traditional media are slowly being replaced by smartphones, computers powered by the internet. Access to information became faster and larger. According to Frank W. Baker of Media Literacy Clearinghouse, “the 21st century will require information processing skills. Merely teaching, reading and writing is no longer enough.” This can be an indicator that learners need more interactive way of education as well as educating themselves. As of School Year 20172018, Union College Santa Cruz, Laguna implemented the Project Based Learning (PBL) program as a part of its students’ requirements in order for them to pass every subject. Under the said program, students (individually or by group) will create a project that will tackle and resolve a significant problem and exhibit it. This is a great strategy for learning and enhancement because it promotes the so called 21st century skills which include critical thinking, creativity, collaboration and communication. As a student, I think it is beneficial because we will be able to effectively criticize every concept and extract the best idea, improve interpersonal or social skills by working with others and to creatively deliver or communicate the

knowledge and information we gained. It also promotes environmental awareness and improves problem solving skills. Although making some of these projects may require a high cost for the materials and resources, it will test the student’s ability in finding alternatives to somehow lower the expenses and creatively synthesize the product. The PBL program is a way of widening the area of learning. We can learn better

“We can learn better about a topic if we can experience and see the lessons. We can no longer be bounded by books.” about a topic if we can experience and see the lessons. We can no longer be bounded by books. Some students might find it difficult, stressing and time consuming but if you look at the brighter side, all it takes are effort, passion and enjoy doing it, optimism! This program is highly effective in the sense that it will enable students to step on higher levels of thinking. “Knowing” the lessons is not enough. We should effectively understand, analyze and apply the knowledge in real life. UT

letter to the editor Dear EDitor, I have read about the HIV article in your last issue. I am just wondering about your views in this issue. As I believe, the young people like us should be well aware of the topics which seemed to be taboo in the past years. It is important that the students have the knowledge of what is HIV, the ways of its transfer and the prevention measures. I hope that you will respond to this message. More power to you and your publication.

With respect, Eunard BArquilla Dear Eunard, I am glad that you are reading our publication. I agree with you, HIV is such an issue that needs not to be hidden as not onyl the young people today but also the environment and soical community are more open to sensitive issues. We are aware that HIV has the ability to end up our dreams and that is why we are one with you in campaigning against it. There are articles in this publication which still tackle HIV. You may use the information you will get here in expanding your ways of spreading HIV-AIDS awareness.

yours truly, the editor

UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

opinion the union times

hunger games

cognizant Junette Abad

Students of Union College Community of Senior High (UCCOSH) tend to go out to buy snacks right after their first class due to long the length of class time which is an hour and a half. This length of learning and different sorts of activities can lead to hunger and loss of energy for the upcoming subjects. Although teachers are giving tasks and lessons that are trying to keep the students’ interests, some still find it difficult to maintain their attention. This is also because some students come from places far from the school and they may not have time to eat breakfast. The canteen serves them in the first few months of class until the administration no-

ticed this problem. It is now stricter to have break times every after class to minimize

“...they should not only think of what they need but also of what others need.” the distractions it may cause. When other students from different class see those who walk to the canteen, chances are they lose their attention and they start to want to go out as

are you still trustworthy? louder voice Aiza Cacalda

OF ALLEGED YOUNGSTERS INVOLVED IN CRIMES

UNIONITES THOUGHTS ON RECENT DEATHS

U/SPEAK

An unstoppable battle between government and illegal drugs leads to tons of bloodshed being seen in the whole country, blood of people who were wrongly accused by the officials, blood of youths who suffer from the extreme malfunctioning of the power. The power must protect the citizens and help the youth to reach their dream. But why does the power make the lives of the youths at risk? Random Drug Test for high school students in private and public schools will only make students’ lives more chaotic. A student must only think his projects’ deadline, his assignments,

his crushes and his future plans with his future family not his future death because he knows that

“The power must protect the citizens and help the youth to reach their dream.” even while he is only walking on the street someone may drag him to a dark place and end his life.

well. This leads to disturbances in activities, lectures and other thing happening in their classes. Going every after class should be solve mainly by the actions of the administration and next the cooperation of the students. Those students should be well aware that they should not only think of what they need but also of what others need. If they feel hungry, they have to be aware that others feel the same too and by going out before break time, they may disturb classes. Leaning more to why they use to go out after class may sometimes be just to go to the rest room or in some cases, to just buy drinks or foods. But students just obey their thirst, to have something to eat just before the next class and to have the energy for it. Although these students go out of their classrooms, we can see from them their need of energy to go on throughout the day and for them to be active in their classes and on every activity that they do but going hand in hand with this is the responsibility to maintain smooth flow of classes and to avoid causing disturbances to the class they may be affecting. UT

It is not a help but harm for each owner of the body who got tested. As a student, how can I assure my files will not be fabricated just for the officials to have a report like what happened to the people who got wrongly accused? How can I assure that my identity will be safely hidden? How can I assure my life will not end? After what happened to Kian Delos Santos and Carl Arnaiz whose lives ended brutally, I realized that giving my trust to government’s power will just take my life away. The people who got killed brutally by the people who must protect them is an enough reason to doubt on the promises that our government took oath. It is very disappointing because the moment I heard their promises, I thought something will finally change from the past administration that, for me, disappointed many Filipinos, a change that will make the country more comfortable to live to. But after many lives have ended, the Philippines is not a safe country anymore. I’d rather entrust my life to a homeless man than to a powerful person who is seating at the peak of the triangle. UT

MAlicious Disrespect

valued view Gabriel Joseph Brion

A video of a Filipino transgender has blown up the netizens’ minds when her viral video spread in social media this September. Facebook user named Michael Tumagan uploaded a video of Maria Sofia a.k.a (Love) Sanchez wearing pink; one-piece bikinis, dancing some inappropriate moves while the National Anthem (Lupang Hinirang) is playing in the background. Not only that, Love was holding her crotch instead of her chest. What she does is clearly a malicious disrespect to the national anthem and is something to be condemned. Sanchez already gained the attention of the social media just last year due to her other viral videos, by what she did now, she is clearly seeking for more attention. Although, Sanchez is the Ambassador of LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) Community and one of the most inspiring people around the world. People love Sanchez because of the person’s optimistic personality. The transgender makes a lot of videos talking how she loves our nature, our Earth, our country and etc. Then everybody was shocked when she made that inappropriate video which caught the attention of our citizens and reacted in the social media, specially the Filipino netizens. But despite her positivity which people liked in the past year, Lupang Hinirang is Lupang Hinirang. The National anthem is a generally patriotic musical composition that evokes the traditions, culture, history, and struggles of the people in a certain country. It is also recognized by the government as the official national song of the country. National anthems should be respected, any acts perverting or insulting it is strictly punishable by law. The Government immediately responded for this

malicious act. Violators will face corresponding sanctions and penalties according to the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines or R.A 8491. Due to this, some people tended to overgeneralize the situation by stereotyping the LGBT community with this single instance. Well, Sanchez’ gender is not the thing to be condemned but the main action she did. It is not her being that is faulty but her way of thinking and her ideas of irrelevant and disrespectful humor.

“It is not her being that is faulty but her way of thinking and her ideas of irrelevant and disrespectful humor.” Teddy Atienza, on the other half, the chief of the Heraldy Section on National Historic Commission of the Philippines was asked by the press of the possible punishment that Love is facing. According to him it could be a punishment of “Persona Non Grata” or the cancelation of the passport, being black listed in the country, and possibly a year of imprisonment. With this, Sanchez is now once again a hit in the social media world. But now is the complete inverse of the attention she had last year. Maria Sofia Love may not really intend to disrespect the national anthem but what she does was something very unintelligent. She should have thought of the possible outcomes of that action. Now, what she seems is someone who is desperate for attention. UT

‘ALARMING’

‘STOP NOW’

‘disappointing’

‘WHAT’S NEXT?’

Jhaimee Mejia

Rochelle De Claro

Jamie Sabino

Besai Rosales

I believed in President Duterte’s abilities at first and I thought he would be able to end this menace, but I think what’s happening now is completely different. I am disappointed.

I cannot imagine what will come after this. These youn people could have lived a better life and who knows, they may be the ones the get the Philippines out of this drug problem.

These youngsters should also be responsible for their actions. They need to be extra careful because this case is really alarming.

Simple, it has to stop. May these youngsters be involved in drugs or not, the way they died is still gruesome, no due process. The Philippines can clearly do something better than this.

UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

the union times opinion

U/Pulse

homework no more? the fugitive

out of Unionites says they find it difficult to accomplish their Project Based Learning (PBL) Tasks

A poll was conducted by The Union Times to determine the views of Unionites in the implementation of Project Based Learning. 57% of the students who participated in the poll said ‘YES’ when asked if PBL is difficult while 32% said no and 11% cannot decide.

coming for the Dying Cynthesis Cynthjhune Dela Torre

Rodrigo Roa Duterte took office as the President of the Philippines last June 30, 2016 and declared a “war” on drugs to end criminality within 6 months of his service, but in less than nine months, he has already surpassed the death toll of President Ferdinand Marcos, whose forces killed about 3,300 political opponents and activists during his harsh 20-year rule. Latest Philippine National Police (PNP) data shows that

“Consequently, authorities are targeting only petty drug suspects.” a total of 3,451 drug personalities were killed in anti-drug operations from July 1, 2016 to July 26, 2017 and PNP has also determined that out of the 12,833 homicide came from July 1, 2016 to June 16, 2017. Kian Loyd, a Grade 11 student from Caloocan City allegedly had sachets of shabu in his remains. The Delos Santos family insisted that Kian was not into drugs and that he didn’t have a gun. His father state that Kian couldn’t sleep alone because he was afraid in the dark. So how, Zaldy Delos Santos wandered could his 17-yearold son have mustered the courage to shoot a police man? Carl Angelo Arnaiz, 19, a class valedictorian, went miss-

ing together with 14-year-old neighbor Reynaldo de Guzman when they left their homes in Cainta to buy snacks. After ten days, the body of Arnaiz was found along C-3 Road in Caloocan. His parents traced his remains in a Caloocan morgue on Aug. 28. But De Guzman was still missing in the said date. Almost 9,000 people, many small-time users and dealers, have been killed since Duterte took office on June 30. Police say about a third of the victims were shot by officers in self-defense during legitimate anti-drug operations. Human rights monitors believe many of the remaining two thirds were killed by paid assassins operating with police backing or by police disguised as vigilantes - a charge the police deny. Consequently, authorities are targeting only petty drug suspects. Why aren’t they killing the suppliers? Why only the poor and defenseless ones are dying? Like Delos Santos, Arnaiz’s mother is also working overseas. Arnaiz , although he dropped out of UP, was a promising teenage boy who would have been an asset to the nation if given the opportunity and nurturing environment that youths need to realize their full potential. Like Kian delos Santos, Carl Angelo Arnaiz deserves justice and his 14-year-old companion Reynaldo de Guzman must not join the ranks of the nation’s victims of the crime of enforced disappearances. UT

Hannah Mariz M. Reyes

After signing an executive order that prohibits teachers from giving an assignment to their students, President Duterte, together with every Filipino student believed that homework will no longer cause stress and agony to the life of students every weekend. I myself have appreciated this but I guess, it is somehow paid on different aspect. Hearing phrases like “no homework today” or “class, I’m not giving you an assignment, enjoy your day” from our beloved teachers make us, as students more energetic, as we leave the school. This serves as relief and avoidance on stress, thinking about how we can divide our time on answering and researching the assigned task while were busy doing our chores inside the house. Students are performing tasks or activities both inside and outside the classroom. These activities are more than enough to cover every time they have since schooling does not include one class or subject only. Hence, not giving of homework from teach-

ers is such a relief. This also means that students may have time to perform other non-academic tasks or just to use their spare time for leisure and enjoyment every once in a while. No

“...this ‘no homework policy’ can be anothr reason for some teachers to give an alternative and heavier task...” homework policy may serve as a savior for students but on the other hand, the consequences and alternative tasks are a lot harder than we were expecting. When we say “no homework policy” it means that teachers were instructed to not give homework to students so they can have quality time together

global combat

Issue Digest Alecksandra Bautista

Nations are taking terrorism actions on other nations. No one knows their real cause of actions but some believes that they are taking other countries for power. Like the bombing attack that took place in France, the terror attack in the streets of Spain and the terrorist troops in the Philippines. The other countries should not experience things like these coming from other countries. We are all one because we are on this one world together. Countries may be far from each other, we are still one in unity when helping the world we live in. In France, although 2015 has been the deadliest year so far in terms of fatalities caused by terrorist attacks, the number of attacks in previous years has been far higher. The highest number of attacks recorded in a single year was 270 in 1996, while the last year without any recorded terrorist attacks was 1971. Terrorist attack in the

streets of Spain where at least 14 were killed and 140 got injured is just another example. No one would have imagined that attack since the terrorism happened in a busy street of tourist in fine day.

“If these terrorists have some principles that they want to reach other people or communities, they should do it without any destructions and chaos. ” These attacks would not spare any nation. It has already reached the Philippines with the siege happening in Marawi in Mindanao. Maute group had caused a number of death and

with their family. However, some things are not included to this. Based on what I am seeing, activities like reporting, researches, group works and take home activities are the new home works given a new name so they can say that it is not an assignment. Still there is no difference between giving an assignment and not. Because this ‘no homework policy’ can be usually a reason for some teachers to give an alternative and heavier task, thinking that students have to do another thing since we’re not receiving assignments. So when we all taught that we can be finally be free from all of these school works assigned to do at home, we’re not. Although we should be aware of the things a student must do, we shall still be given time to breath. Yes, this move by the government aims to get us out of exhaustion but by how it is being implemented, none of us get spare of overloaded tasks. Still, academic responsibilities refrain us from having time to have fun and enjoy our age. What could we do? Though we all know that take home task from school is very essential for the students to further understand the lessons, teachers should also respect the right of students to rest and spend time with their family. They should also consider the executive order and help to implement it, instead of just changing the “homework” from any other name. Let the students enjoy the given day for them to remove all the stress from school and their environment, to enjoy life. UT

destruction in the whole province which initiated President Rodrigo Duterte to declare Martial Law. These are all threat countries for power and for people’s attention. They want people to worship them or be afraid of them so that they would be able to control them. The terrorist should think about the world they live move in first because we are in a one ground, a ground that they destroyed will also destroy their resources. If these terrorists have some principles that they want to reach other people or communities, they should do it without any destructions and chaos. No one wins a war. Every party will surely loose power, people and resources. With the continuous growth of terrorism in the world, everyone is just getting more devastated each single day. But to end this type of instances would surely take time. We may not have the absolute power to do so, but we have our voices and abilities. Let us move for a better world. Let us voice out our ideas not just to end terrorism but to begin acceptance of diversity and appreciation of everyone’s abilities. Now, what we could do is to spread this message of inclusivity in every medium we can use. We cannot end war, of course, but we can make sure that the people near us or close to us would not be the one to take part in this devastating wars. Many had already suffered. That is enough. UT

the union times

10 FEATURES UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

Vice Ganda had his SONA? know more on page 13

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017

ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

From CCP 13 Artists Awardees

Arts

Laguna Artists Exhibit

Love for Driven by I

Faith

never thought that I would discover an art gallery I thought I can only find in Manila. Since the entrance admission was free, I decided to take the opportunity to discover what’s on behind the Art Gallery. Nineveh Paintings came from different contemporary artists not only here in Laguna but from the different places in the country. The name Nineveh came from the story of Jonas, which was the son of the owner, Louis Sevilla. Jonas died last 1993 and was an inspiration for his drawing that depicts a house with a cross. The simple house became the Jonas’ House of Prayer. Last 2003, the House of Prayer became the Nineveh Art Space gallery. But up until now, the art space lives by its memory of Jonas. The place is filled with art and tranquillity where one may find spiritual rest and restoration. Sevilla works as a Professor in a Christian School and the values of spirituality took him and the place into a level of peace and calmness for all its visitors. The gallery was three houses combined altogether. The garage, kitchen and other parts of the house was transformed into a place for displaying different artworks from different artists. The first time the place had arts dwelling in it was when a member of the crew of their theatre group had financial problem, since he was also an artist, they proceed to exhibit his paintings. Sevilla also love travelling to different places that is why they met a lot of artist

Sevilla

Imelda Andaya’s Hilom Exhibit

by Axeleth Dahonog

I always enjoy walking. I find it tranquil by just observing the things around me, appreciating the people coming to and fro. I never imagined that just by walking along the streets of Union College, I’ll find a dwelling place that satisfies my fervent urge for contemporary arts. Just some walks away, I found Nineveh Arts Space.

through their travels and they offered them to display their works in their art gallery. Aside from paintings, there are also terra cotta sculptures from artist, Ramon De Los Santos, Carved and Oil on antique wood (bas reliefs) from Bernard A. Vista, who was also well-known for his bent heads and big hands and feet; and other sculptural artist like Macouy Mark Gonzales, Felix Baldemor, and many more. Some of the artist were included to the 13 artist awardees who was also featured. Diverse painting techniques can also be seen in the art gallery including the whimsical paintings of Jutsze Pamate, Oil Paintings by Cresencio “Iking” Querido, Jovan Benito, Bayani Ray B. Acala and a lot more. Paintings of Nineveh where nothing but attractive and jaw dropping that is why they also sell the exhibits. There are some times when buyers can’t get enough of the paintings so Sevilla had no choice but to auction the paintings. The prices ranges from P5,000 to more than P200,000 per piece. There are also a lot of other artworks that involves the problem of the society, such as feminism, poverty and also politics. The paintings and artworks also portrays different aspects in life, like deep thoughts of people, Filipino cultures like fiestas and other occasions. There is also some artworks relating to the controversial issues like Martial Law. The Art Gallery features different types and

“the place art &

tranqulity

styles of art which eventually included performing arts since the owner of the gallery was a playwright himself. Louis Sevilla writes pieces for Sabayang Pagbigkas, Theatrical plays that depicts spiritual topics. With Sevilla having the memory of his son at his home, art workshops for children are being held every summer. He shared that the joy of seeing children enjoy art always brings the memory of his son. Some of the products of the workshops get the chance to be exhibited in the gallery. Contemporary Arts is truly appreciated since the works really differ since they use new techniques, styles and even medium. Sometimes, people are only limiting themselves but these artists who share their works to the people, their talents and interest should be something to be proud of. Artists usually express themselves through their masterpiece. They can express their opinions, emotions through the lines and color that they make. They may not be able express it through words, these artists wanted to live their audiences something that they won’t forget. More than anything, Nineveh offers not only memories but experience. Being devoured by the irony of tranquil atmosphere and the beautiful chaos of contemporary arts brings me to a whole new dimension of tickled senses. For sure I’ll never get tired of walking to Nineveh, where I found the love for arts, driven by faith. UT

spiritual rest & restoration.

where one may find

”

Photos by The Union Times

is filled with

UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

the union times features

Tears Over

marawi M

A Tale from a Loved One

onths had passed since the terrorist attacked Marawi City where a lot of lives were taken away including the children who were so innocent. The terror left a scar to the minds of the people living in the city as they’ve witnessed the attacks. I’ve been really thinking about my relatives in Mindanao as the war started. My sister went to Mindanao to attend our family reunion where supposed to be I was with her that time, the same day when the Martial Law was declared in Mindanao. My sister told me that my cousin was studying in the Mindanao State University, which has been being taken down by the communist. That time we were watching news

that rebels are terrorizing the city. While we were panicking about my cousin’s condition, she is trying to keep her calmness and remain composed at her dormitory. “I was in school that time then teachers told us that there’s a war in the city, I went to my dorm because that is the only place I can go. We followed our university’s instructions regarding on the evacuation in the city,” she told us but her tone was really calm, I felt a sense of relief. Although she added that my tita, her mom, was starting to panic. But unlike people’s perception, my cousin said she felt relief when President

“

I know that they don’t want us to get bothered. So, my mind got confused if they are telling the truth or if they are just telling those things just to make us feel better.

Illustration by Joshua Nicandro

by Axeleth Dahonog

Rodrigo Duterte imposed Martial Law in the whole island of Mindanao. The checkpoints they have stopped on to are their safe haven. She really does feel the security of the Martials. The soldiers who had checked on them, asking questions made them feel less vulnerable to the terrorist. I had thought of my cousin and my relatives’ safety because of what was happening. I know that they don’t want us to get bothered. So, my mind got confused if they are telling the truth or if they are just telling those things just to make us feel better. I hope it was the truth. Then on our next conversations online my cousin continued to tell me that they are safe and martial law was doing the how it should do. “We can hear bombs, and shouts, and cries around us. Tears are all over Marawi,” my cousin shared. “But do not worry, Martial Law is taking charge and the exchanges of fires from Maute and the soldiers are being managed by the government. I just can’t believe how people

“

Lola and her Longnut

dreams by Dijette Abayari

Illustration by Joshua Nicandro

othing compares to the love our grandparents give. As many say, lolos and lolas love their apos more than their children. I could not agree more. My lola has always been there to brighten up my day. She is undeniably sweet, literally and figuratively. She would always bring home something to satisfy my sweet tooth. This is why another lola got a special place in my heart and in the hearts of other Unionites as well. This lola has always been there not just to serve her delectable offering but to provide smiles and inspiration. Lola Longnut, as she is known, lives by her purpose of serving sweet food and sweet love. Most Unionites know Lola Longnut but not everyone knows the struggle behind her long and sweet life. Angelina Gonzales or Lola Longnut sells doughnuts and other breads for merienda everyday near the school. She is well known for her sweet and yummy longnuts. Lola Longnut brings a smile to almost all the stu-

from Luzon think the otherwise,” she added. People’s lives were jeopardized and even if the troops of communist has limited power, still the budget that the government allocated just for the war supposed to be given to other projects and help for the poor seem to be limited. Buildings and infrastructures are taken down, many are bombed, and still the siege is continuing. How and when it will end up is still unknown, but soon the war will stop and the flag can be raised again and the people from Marawi City will stand up again rising from the ground, they will continue to live and their faith will remain after the war they faced. When that time comes, my longing for my relatives’ safety shall end. We may relive the gladness that we shared every time we get the chance speak although through the internet only. And I don’t know, I may want to visit them, soon, when there are no longer tears over Marawi. UT

dents of Union College. Students have grown fond of her not only because of her yummy longnuts but also because of her approachable and cheerful character. Lola Longnut is already 61 years old. At her age, most senior citizens are already living relaxed and enjoyable lives, and are no longer responsible to their children and/or grandchildren; but Lola Longnut’s story is different. What everyone doesn’t know is that she has a soft and weak spot too behind her cheerful personality. She shouted, “ayan nanaman tayo e!” while crying and hiding her face when she was asked about her grandchildren. The tears in her eyes are proofs that her love for them is true and unconditional. “Gawa ng pinag-aaral ko pa ang tatlo kong apo,” Lola Longnut answered when she was asked why is she still working at that age. “Hiwalay na kasi mga magulang nila,” she added. Lola Longnut lives alone and far from her only son and three grandchildren. Even though she does not live with her grandchildren, she still helps sending them to school. She works whole-heartedly for them. She wakes up early in the morning to sell breads to students. It is heart breaking to think that an old lady like her lives alone and have to sell while carrying her heavy basket full of breads regardless of the hot or rainy weather. But hardships will all be paid off! Her oldest grandchild is already in senior high. Soon, as days pass by, they will all finish studying and will finally give lola a finer life. With this, Lola Longnut’s story teaches us to be optimistic and gritty, that no matter what hardship we may be going through, every cloud would still have a silver lining and all sacrifices will all be paid off. In the end, the sweetness behind the bitterness of Lola Longnut’s life will remind us that in every lola comes the unconditional love and sweet aspirations that lasts to end of time, as long and sweet as Lola’s Longnut. UT

UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

features the union times

qiqil moh c acquoeh

h a u n q u a #jgh #fftb

s e b a n g g jejejeje

jejemon return of the comeback by Axeleth Dahonog

o you remember texting someone l!k3 tH!s? Or sending everyone what you are doing through group messages or Gm’s that also includes your signature at the end like bHozxs_mHaldH!tAh? Or even telling to your crush or love ones iKhAw lH4nq sHupHu4t nUah? Those were the days or time of your life when you consider a Jejemon. Have you changed, stayed or upgraded? Filipinos are well known to be creative not only in visual arts, but also in performing arts. But now, because of the fads that have been popular to young ages, it became a trend and even sometimes, a habit. It all started in fun and games; it is once gone, but now it is coming back; wittier, bolder, and funnier. Jejemon has been a craze and way back 2010 where mostly they are seen through texting and even their taste in fashion. Through texting a “Jeje” usually use characters, numbers, and a combination of uppercase and lowercase letter all in one word. Some were creating “texting clans” or group messaging their friends whatever they are doing or going. JGH, FFTB, OTW, seems so familiar right? Even their behavior, fashion, and taste of music are really peculiar. Loose pants, oversized shirts, and unusual cap that you did not really worn properly, blings, and handkerchief, is what they normally wear adopting the emo slash gangster look. Those duck-faced selfies and poses that they make

WittyBunny by Lizel Santillan and Adriana Tolentino

was scrolling through my Facebook newsfeed when I saw the post of my friend, it says that his Korean name was Ha Boo Lin, I reacted a laughing emoji to his post and tried to click the app that he used, then a picture of me appeared with a question beside "What is my Korean name?" I clicked the 'start' button and waited for a second. After waiting for about 10 seconds, the result appeared and it is Ma Gan Duh. I laughed while sharing the post to my Facebook friends. I found out that this is a new craze in the internet world. It is called the WittyBunny, it's trending specially to the teens out there because it can humorously predict your future, interest, who is your look alike, what is your best asset, who has a crush on you, what do you look like after 10 years and many more that can catch the interest of the Millennials. According to some Millennial that we interviewed, the WittyBunny is not just an app or site but a way to relieve stress and reduce their tense. "Masaya 'yung WittyBunny. Wala lang, pampalipas oras. Tiyaka nakakatanggal ng stress" Dijjette Abayari said, a grade 11 student from Union College Community Senior High. The other students said that it entertained them, gives them hope, and some said that they only tried it because it's trending. Since it catches attention, many peo-

ple are so much fond and are hooked in this phenomenal app. It is also a source of entertainment and somehow boosts one's confidence. At the same time, many users especially teens widely use this as part of their daily routine. WittyBunny is one among many online quizzes that netizens are getting hooked into. Although, these types of online quizzes serve entertainment to the users, some claim that sites like this are dangerous. As WittyBunny gained popularity, many posts came out that this site is getting personal information from the person entering or answering the online quiz. This information, as according to some Facebook posts, are used for illegal transactions. An article from USA Today clarified that online quizzes are risky for developers can access personal details listed in one’s profile that may lead to fake websites and scams. Their suggestion, avoid these kinds of entertainment. With the many entertainment kinds being offered by the internet comes many consequences that the users may get. Hence, before being devoured by shorttime fun and excitement, netizens should think of every action that they may do online. Well, being crazy with WittyBunny is not something witty. UT

on their face with matching multiple filters that will look like you’re not on the picture you’ve uploaded. First love, stupid love and Kabet became your jam. We’re all cringing right now, but admit it, you feel a slight of guilt. But that is so way 2010! It’s already 2017 but they’re having a little comeback. Apparently, there are some people stayed on that era of their life until now but some had improved. Some people don’t know they’re considered a “Jejemon” because they only know what a typical jejemon looks like before. The rise of Dank Memes on the internet, following or doing crazy challenges that your friends tagged you in a post, posting or updating almost everything on your social media accounts, and other weird stuffs that millennials is doing in their life on social media and even in real life. Sometimes when we go out to stroll out on public places, you’ll often see a lot of people wearing yeezy’s, some of them were real but most of the time it’s fake. This rebirth of Jejemons, therefore, is not only on the use of the Jeje language but, Jejemon, itself, as a social phenomenon. Although Jejemon had gained negative connotations like being baduy or jologs in the past years, being one now is absurdly being in; by intentional posting of jeje statements, by knowing that it may make someone happy. Ux2 mo fuah vah? UT

Deadly Things of Social Media

Going crazy with

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

by Rachelle Alay

n today's generation, many people such as teenagers and students are using social media to communicate, to be informed and to be entertained. But as any other things in the world, social media use should be in moderation for it may also cause harms to its users. So next time you log in to Facebook or post a picture in Instagram, remember these seven things. First, social media is addictive. Most of our time, we want to use social media. By doing such, the time that we need to allot to our responsibilities are being taken by Facebook, twitter and Instagram among others. Second, it can lead to jealousy. Yes! Jealousy. Well, social media is just another tool for humble brags or just some direct bragging. Whenever our social media friends posts their new gadgets or new clothes, or when they travel abroad for a vacation, there would always be a part of us that gets envious. Third, Cyberbullying. Cyberbullying has been spread widely among youth with 42% reporting that they have been victims according to a CBS News Report. Social threatening for young people and terrorizing using social media like Facebook and twitter will lead to online acts of stereotyping, racism and bullying. Worse, cyberbullying may result to depression and suicide. Fourth, Expression Abuse. As time passed by, this privilege given by social media tend to be abused by using it against other people or communities. Irresponsible and insensitive expression of opinions about social issues has also become rampant. Fifth, loss of privacy. Expressing too much may result to the loss of privacy. In social media, everyone has a say to everything that is being posted. By showing too much in social media, the user may feel that his life is being exposed too much to the people he doesn’t really know in the first place. Sixth, health risks. Too much use of social media exposes ourselves to screens in a long period of time. This has health risks like experiencing eye problems, sleeplessness, fatigue and even stress and depression! Seventh, minimal social interaction. By exerting too much time in scrolling through different websites, netizens tend to experience less social interaction like talking and participating in some physical activities. Therefore, limitation is key! These things are deadly especially when these things have ruled our lives. So as many says, think first before you click! UT

UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

the union times features

Café Talk eat and relax

just around the corner by Hannah Reyes

4/5

BOARDS AND BREWS

3/5 NANOT’S

4/5 JOOKIN’S

o study is to be filled with stress and unexplainable number of tasks and activities. So whenever students get the chance to have spare time, most wanted to eat. Well, having an afternoon in a café after a stressful day or even a week would do no harm. So The Union Times walked around the streets of Sta. Cruz Laguna to find out which café would fit into a student’s taste, budget and type of place. We have visited three cafes and we rate them according to their price, ambiance and service. We also checked if the place is instagrammable or not. Our first stop was Jookin’s Café located in Pedro Guevara Avenue. Although the service took some time, the staff has initiative to share us the origin of their café’s name even without asking them to do so. It was named Jookin when the owner found out that were not able to say the name ‘Joaquin’. Joaquin is the name of the owner’s son. They served our order in less than six minutes. We ordered their Tuna Pesto, Choco lava for desert, coffee, mango juice and matcha for drinks. The pasta was good. The tuna in it was just tender that the taste tickles the buds. Their choco lava is topped with vanilla ice cream, with a hot choco filling inside. Matcha also taste good but the mango in our mango juice was not appreciated well because we can taste that there’s not enough mango taste in the juice. The coffee cappuccinos looked great and believe me, you would choose to take a picture of it instead of drinking it. Jookin’s Café has a good ambiance but not instagrammable because of its light setting. It is budget friendly and senior high school students can surely go inside this café without killing their weekly budget. Next, we went to Nanot’s Spaghetti House located in F.Sario St. Poblacion 4 Sta. Cruz Laguna. Compared to Jookin’s, Nanot’s has more customers the time we entered their place. They took longer time in preparing our food. We waited for almost 20 minutes to complete our set of orders such as pasta, blueberry cake for desert, coffee and orange blend to four seasons and strawberry juice for drinks. First, the drink did not meet our expectations, but it was manageable. They also gave us the coffee and we call it “D.I.Y” coffee or do it yourself coffee because they just served a hot

water and a pack of coffee. Their pasta was just a good combination of Italian and Filipino taste; just reasonable for its price. We loved blueberry cake. The cake has the exchanging tastes of sweetness and sourness plus the cream cheese to balance the over-all taste. It was placed in a cute jar and tastes better than the other food that we ordered. The ambiance is fit to set of groups or family but the place get so much light and it’s not instagrammable. The price is not also acceptable for senior high school students because their meal is not that cheap compared to others. And our last stop is on Boards & Brews that can be located at 1488 Pedro Guevara Avenue, Santa Cruz, 4009 Laguna. By taking your steps on their designed staircase, you would tell yourself that your stay on that place will bring so much fun to your life. Opening the door of their café would add to your excitement. As you hear the noise of people enjoying the games with their friends, you will start to untie the lace of your shoe and join the set of people who makes noises because of enjoyment. We ordered carbonara, brownies for desert, coffee and choco drink for drinks. Their pasta is like common pasta with right amount of service. The deserts also taste good because it has hard chocolate top. Their chocolate drink is also a common drink that I could taste everywhere but the coffee looks more creative than the other coffee that we ordered. It is a self-service café but the people out there are willing to teach the mechanics of the game that you wish to play. The ambiance is fit for those people who likes noisy place, but is not preferable for those who are looking for a great place to appreciate silence. It is surely instagrammable and the prices are for all kind of kids and kids at heart. If you want to check out and rate this café’s based on your style, you can see them along the streets of Sta. Cruz Laguna. Go with your friends, eat within your budget and enjoy your most precious time with these cafes in Sta. Cruz Laguna. In the end, it is not just the food, the drinks or the place that matters; it is the company you are with while enjoying the tastes bursting in your mouth and the experiences tickling your memories. UT

From Shows toComedy Shelves Beyond TV! Reviews by Yra Bautista Hannah Reyes Lenin Osio

e have noticed that many TV personalities especially comedians are trying to expand their fields. From the appearances in TV, hosting of national events, doing a concert and now publishing a book! With this, we try to read and review some of the books from the rising Filipino comedian authors.

Tweets to Print: #Charotism

#Charotism: The wit and wisdom of Ethel Booba is a book that is written by Ethel Booba herself. This book was from the funny yet witty tweets of Ethel. Some of her tweets were real and some were made for others satisfaction. The book covers a lot of issues from politics, simple jokes, and love, to family or loved ones. For many, this book might be boring but to some, this book is full of wits that will turn your head again and realize the whole statement. Like “Mas maganda pa ung hashtags mo sa instagram kesa sa goals mo sa buhay. Charot! – Life expert”. It was good unlike any others that looking it from afar you might feel bored in an instant, but not on this book; with a simple statement and taste of wit.

Hugots to Print: K-Sabihan

K-Sabihan of Carmilla Aguillon Brosas or simply known as K-Brosas was published to entertain readers and make fun of common problems that we’re going through as a typical Pinoy. This started with K Brosas’ K-Sabihan which became a hit as TV Hugots in It’s Showtime. K’s background story introduced the readers to the book then there were comparison of old and modern world in the book. However, the comparisons are generic, good that the book is filled with humor. The language is very casual. Readers can see slang words in every page of the book. Teenagers and modern Filipinos can mostly understand her words. She has also a remarkable word in the book wherein she’s substituting some letters to letter K. The main reason of the book is to spread happiness. This is recommended for those people who are looking for some books to be read, to let their time pass. However, it is not recommended for those bookworms who are looking for lit books that will give much wisdom into their minds.

Punchlines to Print: President Vice

This book of the comedian Vice Ganda has a physical qualification that was beyond great, it has great quality of printing, expensive one I may say, but cheaper because it's not a reading material where we find reliable informations. It is a book to make people laugh in spite of the problems in this generation. Millennials find it witty because of straightforward solutions of Vice Ganda to the problems of our country today. Here on this book you'll find Vice Ganda's fictional cabinet members, his new emblem to things and punishment for cheaters. It also included his State of the Nation Address (SONA) where he gives brief clarification about the whole book. The book is a go for fun but a no for information. What we conclude is that these comedians are only trying different avenues since what they offer remains the same which is to send happiness and positivity. So if you have any plans to read the books mentioned above, bear in mind that those books went from shows to shelves to make you happy, no more no less. UT

the union times

14 SCIENCE UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

Mental Illnesses Explained story on page 16

2,558

Suicide cases in PH, 2012 due to Mental Ilness

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017

ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

No possible epidemia

LMC chief says Laguna, out of Japanese Encephalitis Outbreak by Axeleth Dahonog

nother threat in the Philippines is the Japanese Encephalitis where nine recorded people already died from this viral disease including the two children in Laguna aged 6 and 9 years old from January 9 to August 26. According to Dr. Edgar Palacol, the Medical Center Chief in Laguna Medical Center, Japanese Encephalitis is a viral disease that is spreading, though it is self-limiting, but once you got one it could be deadly but preventable because of immunization. Mosquitos are the courier of this disease but it is airborne, wherein it is more active when there is less sun exposure, during rainy days but the is no specifications regarding on its origin. “Actually para lang syang Flu-like symptoms, headache, body ache, fever, pero ang problema dyan hindi sya nagaling di katulad ng symptoms ng flu, dito naman lalo kang gumagrabe. So sa flu, iinom ka lang ng paracetamol, in few days gagaling ka bat sa JE, lumalala ka. So if nagpapakita ng ganitong symptoms ang pasyente, itataas naming ito sa red flag. Parang ding syang mga viral diseases.” as Dr. Palacol describes the symptoms of the patient. Dr. Palacol also believes that there is JE before, but since we have the technology to identify the specific disease, although it has been evolved into a new type of virus. This also helps in finding the right medication approach to the patient.

JE VECTORS. Japanese Encephalitis is transmitted to human through bites from infected Culex Mosquitos. The virus is transmitted between mosquitos, pigs and/or water birds. [photo from themercurial.com]

“The only problem is that viral diseases, they have the power to modify so example, nagka-dengue na ako ngayon, hindi ka na magkakadengue pero still magkakaron ka pa rin. Nakapagdevelop ka resistance pero ibang strain na to,” as he explained that even after you had a viral disease, doesn’t mean you have no other chance of having one of it again. Even in vaccines it can still happen. It doesn’t mean you vaccine was not effective, but viruses has its own self-defence and it will do something to overcome medications against to it. According to Nurse Molette Gonzales, the Head nurse at the Infectious Disease Unit,

there are actual 3 reported cases, from Los Baños, Calauan and San Pablo. But Dr. Palacol is reminding everyone not to believe in any rumours speculations in social media since it is not verified and not accurate, and rather get information from the health bulletin from the office of the governor and to the Department of Health (DOH). He assured that “There is no epidemia of Japanese Encephalitis”. Viral diseases like JE are self-limiting or it is no actual medications and the only way to eradicate these viruses is your own immune system. “Kaya nga opportunistic yang mga viral diseases nay an dahil kapag

mahina ang resistensya mo mas prone ka or kapag maganda yung weather para dun sa virus eh doon sya dumadami pero kung meron kang healthy living at malakas ka. Self-limiting ibig sabihin gagaling ka sa disease by natural method unless kung bumaba yung resistensya mo or magkaron ka ng ibang infection na makikihalo dun sa sakit na meron ka na,” Dr. Palacol said. “Ang ginagamot dyan ay yung komplikasyon, then kpag naovercome mo yung viral disease nay an then you will develop immunity to that strain.” Dr Palacol explained that it is like a vaccine, but here your body was injected that will create microor-

ganism that will defend your body such as an antibody or immunity. The vaccine for JE is ranging from P2,000-P5,000, depending on what brand and where and to whom you will buy. “Depende yan sa kung saan mo binili, anong brand mo binili at saan ginawa. Yun nga yung gusto naming istress na hindi lahat ng vaccine pare-pareho dahil may handling yan ibig sabihin may right temperature of storage yan, kung paano tinatransport, at sistema kung pano nirerefrigerate yan, so dapat hindi basta-basta kasi baka maging ineffective yon kasi mali ang handling” Dr. Palacol affirmed. The best prevention to these type of diseases is to have a clean environment and have a healthy living. Since viral diseases are communicable diseases we should always be prepared and alert to this type of illnesses. You should also refrain yourself from mosquito bites since they are one of the major courier of JE. Japanese Encephalitis is really life threatening since it can attack your immune system and it can cause infection into human brain. If not treated immediately, it can even lead to death. One thing that we always do is to be vigilant and aware for the happenings of our surroundings. They always say that prevention is better than cure so we must stop it before it gets on to our system. This is one way we can fight this viral diseases and have a healthy life. UT

‘Bird Flu’ scare reaches sta. cruz Laguna IDU systematizes operations for possible cases

by Hannah Mariz Reyes

ith the outbreak in Central Luzon which immediately spread out through the neighboring provinces, the avian influenza or ‘Bird Flu’ has now reached the province of Laguna, specifically, Santa Cruz. Early of August this year when the country became alarmed of the ‘Bird Flu’ fiasco, the Department of Health (DOH) of health alarmed of the retrovirus, however, DOH later clarified that the bird flu cannot be transmitted to humans. After the tests by the Australian Animal Health Laboratory (AAHL), the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI) confirmed that the outbreak that struck Central Luzon, specifically, Pampanga and Nueva Ecija was really avian influenza, known as bird flu. The Inquirer reported that AAHL tested 11 sample tissues and oral swabs on Aug. 21 which resulted positive for avian influenza. As the scare reached Santa Cruz, the Infectious Disease Unit (IDU) of Laguna Medical Center (LMC) started preparations for possible cases. Head Nurse Mollete Gon-

zales explains the system that IDU utilizes. The entire patient who’s going to the outpatient will be given a questionnaire and required to answer it immediately. In the given questionnaire, they will ask the patient if they have a relative who went out of the country for the last six months. By this time, staffs should have their knowledge and updates about these diseases. So that when a new patient arrives, they can ask deeper history about the illness of the said patient. They based their question to the place of origin of the patient. First assessment should be done quickly because it is just a primary interview about the patient and her disease. They are isolating those patients who have communicable diseases. If a patient was diagnosed with red flag, he/she should undergo to another deeper interview and isolation treatment. The hospital added that the purpose of this screening is to prevent patients from passing or receiving one another’s disease. They cannot easily say that you have Bird Flu but when you have admitted to the hos-

2/3

chicken vendors from Sta. Cruz Public Market said the ‘Bird Flu’ scare had greatly affected their sales even though their products only come from towns of Laguna

pital, they can the sign and symptoms that you are carrying. The hospital only gives treatment to the sign and symptoms found in the body of the patient. Once the patient is admitted, there are surveillance team observing around

the hospital, to monitor all the patients who have the signs and symptoms of a specific disease or virus. It has several stage based on the surveillance, depends on the observation of the doctor. UT

UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

the union times science

chasing cancer? Unionites risk health over street food by Ronna Tabao and Axeleth Dahonog

Unhealthy Snack Street foods are mostly made in streets or sidewalks, hence the name. These types of food are prone to the microbes in the air since they are exposed to heat, smoke and other bacteria. Other factors are how it is prepared especially in the environment and the sanitation of the person who is preparing the food. The ingredients may also result to dubious thinking since street foods are sold in cheap price. According to Dr. Antonio Comia, Gastroenterologist and Associate Professor at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine and a consultant in Philippine General Hospital, street food eaters can acquire a lot of diseases such as typhoid fever, acute food poisoning, amoebiasis, and Hepatitis A. Other para-

sites may also get into the body like tapeworms. The victim may also suffer fever, abdominal pain, diarrhoea; vomiting and symptoms may vary from how severe they got from eating this kind of food. There are also certain parts of our body that might be affected. Our liver and heart might be affected because of high cholesterol content. It might also lead to heart attack and hypertension if it was eaten too much and not treated right away. Even because it is prepared through charcoal-grilled, this can trigger cancer cells and Hepatitis and also because of the high content of uric acid, it can also cause joint pains. Unionites May Get Cancer As per the survey conducted, Unionites patronize Isaw the most. According to Aling Nenita, a street food vendor, there are approximately 120 people per day who buy Isaw. Ms. Jovelyn Panganiban, Science Instructor of Union College, said that Unionites are prone to acquire colon cancer due to carcinogens present in grilled foods like Isaw. Carcinogens are any physical, chemical or biological substance that triggers cancer which may be present in pathogens, radiation and food. In the case of Isaw, carcinogens come in the form of heterocyclic amenes or HCA chemicals which is developed by the chemical reaction of heat with meat. Dr. Nalini Chilkov of Huffington Post linked grilled food and cancer by further introducing other types of carcinogens. According to Chilkov, when the fat drips onto the coals and there is a flare, polycyclic aromatic hydrocar-

45 out of

tudents find it accessible to buy foods that is affordable especially when they’re out of budget. It is also common for Filipinos to buy street foods and it has been a part of our culture. From Betamax, Helmet, Isaw, Adidas, Fishball and Tokneneng, it is truly will make us crave for these foods. But aside from being cheap and accessible there are also dangers from eating these kinds of food in our body that we must always know and remember. Students of Union College are among the people who enjoy street foods. As they go outside the school premises, variety of street foods awaits them just few steps away. The Union Times asked the students if they eat street foods and 4 out of five students said yes. This is with their awareness that these street foods carry health risks.

Unionites eat street food bons (PAHs), another family that may contain carcinogens are formed. The smoke carries these hydrocarbons and coats the food. Exposures to PAHs are correlated with increased rates of stomach cancer. Panganiban further shared the case of Wil Dasovich, a celebrity vlogger. Dasovich is known for his vlogs, or video blogs, where he travels and get the chance to eat foods around the world. At present, Dasovich is under medication as he has Colon Cancer which was caused mainly by the street foods and other food factors that he intake in his vlogs. Street foods replacement Since street foods may cause the acquisition of cancer, Panganiban encourages the students to enjoy healthier foods as replacement to street foods. “They can eat fruits and vegetables, instead,” Panganiban said. “These

kinds of food contain bigger amounts of fibers, minerals and antioxidants which help in cancer prevention,” She added. Additionally, to lessen the risk of acquiring cancer, Unionites may practice vegetable juicing; consuming probiotic foods, taking immune-boosting supplements and refraining from doing stress causing activities. Some medications are said to be helping in preventing colon cancer like the intake of aspirins. On the other hand, aspirins may cause gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcer when taken daily. Better be safe than sorry. It is indeed cheap and affordable that with only 10 pesos, street foods will fill your appetite. But being admitted to hospital will cost you even more. So don’t settle for cheaper unhealthy food just to satisfy your cravings, because your health is much more important than anything else. UT

Unceasing virus 30

Laguna ranks 2nd with most number of HIV cases in the region by Yra Bautista

aguna Medical Center told The Union Times that Laguna is now the second province from Region 4A with the highest number of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) Cases just after the province of Cavite. Dr. Edgar Palacol, Chief Doctor of Laguna Medical Center said that the number of cases continuously grows despite the actions of the Department of Health to spread awareness mostly to youngsters. A report of the Department of Health last March had shown that Region 4A had 14% of newly diagnosed HIV cases this year. This is second to NCR having 32%. The number of HIV cases updated March 2017 already reached 968, higher than the record of 735 in 2016 and 667 in 2015. The Virus HIV is a virus that spread in bodily fluids and attacks the immune system specifically the CD4 cells or T Cells, the white blood cells that circulate around the body to protect it from abnormalities and infections. “‘Yang HIV, it affects the immune sys-

tem, mas baba resistensya mo, mas prone ka,” Palacol explained simply what HIV is. This virus mainly hits the immune system resulting to the body’s vulnerability to other diseases or complications. Transmission of the virus is mainly through bodily fluids like blood, breast milk, semen and anal or vaginal fluids. When these fluids reach bodily tissues, the virus transmits easily like the walls of the vagina and the rectum which are mucous membranes, as are the inner lining of the foreskin and the urethra of the penis. Mucous membranes are delicate tissues which provide a less effective barrier to infection than the skin on the outside of the body. HIV can also be transmitted from an infect woman to his child and through the repeated use of infected needles when having tattoos. Since T Cells are mostly responsible for fighting infections, losing them due to HIV results to easier acquisition of serious illnesses. The replication or the making of copies for itself affects different parts of the body, from the blood, brain and intestines. Although there are antiret-

2017

26 2016

09 Newly Diagnosed Cases Per Day roviral drugs, HIV is incurable; the medications only slow down the replication. With the presence of antiretroviral drugs, replication of HIV may reach undetectable viral load, meaning only a tiny amount of virus can be found circulating around the body. More so, this medication helps is reducing the chances of transmitting the virus from an infected person to one that is not infected. Government Program “We have HIV hubs here in Laguna. In Sta. Cruz, we have it here at Laguna Medical Center,” said Palacol on the response of the government to the growing cases of HIV. Palacol further clarified that HIV testing in government HIV hubs are completely free and the person’s identity is kept in private.

2012

2008

“Marami kasing nahihiya magpacheck kaya lalo rin dumarami. Minsan, Infected na pala sila, ‘di pa nila alam,” Palacol added. If someone would be diagnosed positive with HIV, the government still provides free medication to lessen the appearances of virus replication plus the counseling that the patients may get that is also supported by the government. “HIV cannot be passed from staring someone in the eye. We should help HIV patients, hindi pandirihan sila,” Palacol emphasized. This year, 30 new cases of HIV are being diagnosed every day. This is four more people compared to 26 new cases in 2016 and 29 more people compared to cases in 2008.

science

UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

the union times

re is S e o methi h T ng

by Lenin Osio

spicy

Many people eat spicy food but not all knows this

here are five basic tastes: saltiness, sweetness, bitterness, sourness and umami plus the possible combination of the other five basic tastes. But did you know that ‘’spicy’’ is not a combination of any of the five basic tastes? We don’t actually taste the spiciness but rather it is something that is felt or a sensation. Our tongue has tiny knobs called papillae. Our taste buds are small onion-liked shapes made of 50-100 modified epithelial cells. On the tip of these cells, there are countless of microvilli or sometimes called the taste hairs which contain receptors called taste receptors. The spiciness of a food is reaction of our tongue to stimuli since it is our body feeling that there is something you should be aware of. Spicy foods contain chemicals which can irritate the noniceptors, a type of re-

2,558

Suicide cases in PH, 2012 due to Mental Ilness

20%

Filipino adults experinces psychiatric disorders

Cases were reported for every 100,000 Filipinos

3rd

Most cmmon form of morbidity for Filipinos

From 2014 WHO Report

From 2010 NSO Study

ceptor at the end of sensory neuron’s axon that sends signals to our brain if there is a damaging stimulus. Thermoreceptors are nerves that detect the temperature that also stimulated while eating spicy food. So when we put something in our mouth, the saliva helps to dissolve the substance and it is carried to the taste pores. When the chemicals reach the taste pores, they are binded to the taste receptors on our microvilli or taste pores. The nerve fibers will carry out impulses to the gustatory cortex of the brain that will specify the signals that will make us aware of the taste. Capsaicin, the active ingredient in spicy food, when this binds to the VR1 receptors inside our mouth, the sensory neuron is depolarized, and it sends along a signal indicating the presence of spicy stimuli. But in reality VR1 receptors are not designed to

identify capsaicin, but rather they bind with spicy food by accident. So spiciness is a combination of pain and burning sensation that undergo the process of Chemesthesis. Chemesthesis is defined as the chemical sensibility of the skin and mucus membranes. Chemesthetic sensations arise when chemical compounds activate receptors associated with other senses that mediate pain, touch, and thermal perception. It is really unusual that spicy is not a taste but rather it is a feeling or sensation. Also an evidence is that when we rub chili on any part of our body where our body reacts to those stimuli. Moreover, there are a lot of things happening in our body that is not yet discovered so we should be really aware what are going on, and what will happen to our body on certain circumstances. UT

Scoville Heat Unit - A Measure of Spiciness

Carolina Reaper

2,200,000 SHU

Trinidad Moruga Scorpion

2,009,231 SHU

7 Pot Douglah

1,853,936 SHU

Siling Labuyo

100,000 SHU

Shedding Light on the Dimming Cases of Mental Illnesses by Axeleth Dahonog

ost of the time, there are a lot of diseases given by cure and they are more common. But there are a lot of underrated diseases that most people nullify because for them, it was only make up and not a total issue. But everything matters, everything should be given actions no matter how small or big things are. Mental Illness are one of the issues that the society can’t accept that was an actual illness. They are often considered that when you are depressed, you are totally sad. When you seems fine, you are actually okay. Patients who were diagnosed to this condition sometimes doesn’t give enough care from the people around them. These are not treated as medical case so it is not accepted as valuable reason. But there is more than having mental illness, even though you live every day, you will feel that you’re being killed because of your condition. People who suffers with Schizophrenia affects the 1% in the country’s popu-

lation, due to Substance Abuse, there are 5,402 Filipinos were affected, Post-Traumatic Stress Disoder (PTSD) was the top illness since a lot of traumatic events happened in the country since the Mount Pinatubo erupted until now where people are traumatized by these events and Depression which often lead to suicide with increasing number 2,558, according to World Health Organization. Mental illnesses are ranked third in the most common disability in the country but it is still neglected. According to Dr. Rochelle Pacifico, a developmental pediatrician, she explained that “the proper mental health is hindered by a huge wall of denial among family members of the mentally ill person, blocking the opportunities that could have maximized their potential and improved their state.” According to the latest data from the Department of Health (DOH) 17-20 percent of adults and up to 10-15 percent of children in the country have mental illnesses.

School nurse says headache, main clinic visitor

by Dijette Abayari

tudents of Union College often visit the school clinic for particular reasons. Some of the cases that are reportedly present in the clinic are nose bleed, fever, sore throat, colds, allergies, and even fainting. But the most frequent case is headache. According to our school nurse, Ms. Nikki Dael, about 60% of the clinic cases are caused by headaches. There are two types of headache:

SHU

untrivializing the untrivial

Headache galore S

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

the primary and the secondary headache. Primary headaches are caused by overactivity. It is due to the headache condition itself. Other causes of this type are: alcohol, changes in sleep or lack of sleep, poor posture, skipped meals, and stress. There are more causes but the mentioned ones are the reasons of the affected students. Secondary headaches, on the other hand, are due to

another condition. The causes of this type are: dehydration, dental problems, ear infection, colds, influenza, acute sinusitis, and many more. To relieve headache, the usual medicine to be taken is ibuprofen or aspirin. If these medicines are not available, there are other alternatives that can help relieve headache. Applying menthol on the forehead, soothing with scents, and stretching are the other alterna-

In the study conducted last 2012, neglect is the number one factor adding to the risk of long-term physical and mental health, Dr. Pacifico said. But with the help of Philippine Psychiatric Association (PPA), they launched an advocacy to help and improve the capacity of health workers, giving the right medications to the mentally ill patients. There are also a lot of influential people such as Miss International 2016 Kylie Versoza, and TV actress Antoinette Taus. Many people may not understand why or how people suffer this illness, but one thing that we should always consider that even though we don’t know how they survive in their everyday life, the least thing we could do is to help and listen. We may not suffer their situation but the least thing we could do is to give them the chance to have a happy and normal life that everyone must have and to enjoy. UT

tives.

drops helps soothe headache.

Applying menthol Appling menthol can help improve headache management because it produces cooling sensation. Many headache and migraine patients have reported that applying ice packs and menthol helps reduce the pain.

Stretching Stretching your head and neck helps reduce the pain of headache. Slowly rotating the neck in clockwise and counter clockwise manner helps relax the muscle of the shoulder and neck. Moving your chin upward and downward, left and right, and bending your neck sideways helps relieve headache, as well.

Soothing with scents Peppermint oil’s scent helps open up clogged blood vessels which causes headache. It also contains menthol which regulates the body’s blood flow. There are also other oils like lavender oil which is also a great remedy for headache aside from its beautiful fragrance. Inhaling boiling water with lavender oil

Aside from these remedies, prevention from headache is much better – and the best way to prevent headache is to spend at least 30 minutes of exercise a day and staying hydrated. UT

UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

17 FLash VE Drives RS US cloud Drives

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

the union times

speed test Testing How UC Internet Suit Students Needs by Thomas Jalen Lim

nternet connection is, undoubtedly, a major factor that helps the students in accomplishing tasks and doing activities. Union College prides itself with having internet connection that is suiting the online needs of students and faculty members. Mr. Ronnie Edec, computer teacher from the Union College School of Integrated Preparatory Studies (UCSIPS) said that there are two internet services providing connection in the campus. One connected on the registrar and faculty, running an estimated speed of 5 megabytes per second (mbps). Another one on the internet laboratory, which has an estimated speed of 200mbps for it is fiber connected. Internet speed is measured by bandwith or bits per second (bps). A kilobit per second (kbps) delivers 1000 bits per second and a megabit per second (Mbps) is 1,000,000 bits per second. Every electronic file is measured by bits, this means that bits per second is the amount of file which can be uploaded or downloaded within a second. These bits per second help the user to understand download speed and upload speed. Download speed denotes the time it takes for a computer or device to load or access a webpage from a server. Downloading in the internet includes acquiring of music and video files and even streaming of videos or browsing web pages. On the other hand, upload speed is the time a computer or device takes in order to send files or information. This includes the uploading of videos in Youtube or posting an update on Facebook. Analyzing the available internet connections, the 5 mbps speed manages to browse internet pages, download mp3s and stream standard definition videos. If the connection is shared through wifi, two to three devices may work properly at once. An internet connection having a speed of 5mbps, can be a good use of the teachers for researching and studying on the internet, but is not advisable for watching great quality videos and downloading files if five to ten or more units are

connected to it. For the connection can be unstable due to large absorption of connection. This 5mbps connection may be considered slow because it may be affected by different factors. Internet also experiences traffic and congestion due to the huge number of users during peak hours especially in commonly visited webpages like social media and streaming sites or services. But with the possible number of students which may connect to the network, the speed may be very insufficient. While having an internet connection with a speed of 200mbps is really fast. Connection of multiple devices and downloading videos and files are advisable. This massive speed can be a great use for a room having multiple units using the internet at the exact same time such as the computer room or internet laboratory. Slow connection, if experienced in a 200mbps connection may be due to other factors as the placement of the modem. A modem or a modulator-demodulator is the device responsible for the carrying of waves and signals. Modems are used for internet connection sharing. If the signals deliver to the modem is too weak or too noisy, chances are the internet speed will be slower. According to Mary Burns from eLearning Industry, bandwidth constraints threaten to undermine decades of investments and efforts in using technology to make schools more efficient in terms of operations and to allow students and teachers access to quality learning resources and experiences. Therefore, in order to experience better learning in the 21st century, schools should provide internet with higher bandwith or more reliable internet service providers. Due to this, the school technology team plans to put another internet source provider that shall be completely free for the students to access in order to cater their internet needs more. However limit of amount of time shall be observed in order to control and balance the speed of the connection. UT

science

Where should you store your files? by Yra Bautista

lash drives and Cloud drives are often misunderstood as storages that are the same. Flash drives are storage devices which use magnetic storage to input and retrieve data. While on the other hand, Clouds are the type of storage that can be accessible to anywhere and everywhere. It is usually accessible through Computer cloud storage. Both are well designed to provide storage convenience today but which one is best suitable for students? Since flash drives are concrete objects, this allows the user to maintain physical custody and safekeeping of files. This type of storage also comes in different forms, varied in size, shape and color, giving the drive additional element to its main function. Flash drives can be easily kept as key chains or bag charms. Plug and play is how flash drives work. The user needs not to be computer genius just to manipulate this storage device. By simply plugging it to a computer, the files can be seen immediately. Transferring of files from a flash drive to a computer or from a flash drive to another flash drive is potentially fast for it doesn’t need any other aid as internet connection. On the other hand, flash drives are more prone to damage and lost plus it has high potential of virus acquisition. Cloud drives or storage has evidently bigger space that is adjustable easily by how much the user needs. Although some may require monetary support, many hosts offer free cloud storages like Google Drives and Dropbox. With Cloud drives, files can be synchronized and viewed in multiple devices at once. Downfall of Clouds is its requirement of internet connection, without it, files cannot be accessed. Due to the same reason, file transfer might get very slow based on the speed of the internet. Cloud drives also require installing software to all of the devices of the user. This process may be complex for some. Considering factors around us like the internet connection and availability of various devices, flash drives still dominate the choice of the students. UT

Enough with selfies Science claims Instagram as worst socila media app by Axeleth Dahonog

ocial Media is one of the biggest influences of today’s people especially it is one way of them expressing themselves and it can also be used as a tool for their advocacies. But with improper utilization of the technology and social media, there is always a downfall. It can be an advantage and disadvantage both at the same time. Every time you post a picture on social media, specifically on instagram, there is often meaning in each pictures. With the filters you use and how the photo was taken really showcases the creativity of a person who wanted their feed to be perfect and pleasant. They say, A picture paint a thousand words but in the latest research, the pictures you are sharing may show the status of your mental health. A study conducted by the Royal Society of Public Health (RSPH) and the Young Health Movement that Instagram was the worst social media that might cause afflictions to the mental health of teenagers. About 59% of internet users between ages 18 and 29 use instagram and 33% of internet users between the ages of 30 and 49 use instagram. According to the study, “From the colors and faces in their photos to the enhancements they make before posting them, Instagram users with a history of depres-

sion seem to present the world differently from their peers,” this was published in the journal of EJP Data Science. It is also published that people with depression who uses this social media app tend to post more often than those people who are not suffering from mental health issues. The pictures shared mostly are in darker themes. Scientist from Harvard and Vermont universities have created a computer program that will identify people who suffered depression through studying and identifying the photos that they upload. The users tend to use the app in a different manner. The #StatusOfMind, the title of the study, describes social media as more addictive than cigarettes and alcohol. That is why some of its users have high rates of anxiety, depression and lacking of sleep. The users were asked to rank the social media and according to the survey, Youtube was the best followed by Twitter, Facebook, Snapchat and instagram. In the survey that was conducted it shows that these teenagers are suffering from metnal issues such as depression, loneliness, body appreciation and anxiety while using social media. Royal Society for Public Health CEO Shirley Cramer said in an interview via BBC, “"It is interesting

to see Instagram and Snapchat ranking as the worst for mental health and well-being - both platforms are very image-focused and it appears they may be driving feelings of inadequacy and anxiety in young people. As the evidence grows that there may be potential harms from heavy use of social media, and as we upgrade the status of mental health within society, it is important that we have checks and balances in place to make social media less of a 'wild West' when it comes to young people's mental health and well-being." Social Media has been our other world where we can express who we are. Through social media we can cover our faces not afraid by those people who will judge us. But also through social media, we can see our insecurities wishing we were that. We see a whole new perspective and thinking that is right not knowing that is only the thing that we want. Not realizing that is not suitable for us. This platforms created a virtual world of our own. What is the right thing to do is we should know how to utilize it properly. If ever you know someone that is showing any signs of depression or anxiety, this can be the key for us to help them. This may be the key to someone’s remedy to the situation they’re suffering from. UT

sports

UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

the union times

Faith Runner A Unionite’s Story of Running Through Obstacles of Life

he starting line is always the beginning of the journey of a runner. All runners have one goal- to cross the finish line. But running with passion is different from just running. It is not just about winning the medal and trophy; it is about what you’ve experienced during that journey. “Nagsimula ako sa isang dapa,” that is where the young student from Union College named Joel P. Idang started. He was just 10 years old when he joined at Milo Marathon and finished 7th place for his first marathon. “Nasa harapan ako ng starting linen tapos may nagtanong sakin sa kung sure ba talaga ako na dun ang pwesto ko,” as he narrated his first experience in marathon. “Yun pala nasa harap ako ng mga elite runners so nung tapos na yung countdown, edi nagtakbo na tapos ayun, nadapa agad ako.” This is the first thing that happened in the start of his career. His brother, Brian encouraged him to join. That is the start of his career. He started joining into bigger competitions. One of his unforgettable run was the 10 kilometer run in Nuvali since he run together with the Philippine Navy and the Philippine National Police. “Sakin that is

the most unforgettable run, even though I finished it with 3rd place, running along with them is such an honor.” Another unforgettable experience of him is what he calls the ‘sacrifice run’. “May masama akong injury the day before nung mismong takbo ko, eh registered na ako sa 36k run non, tinuloy ko pa rin.” He finished 22nd place but what’s important is he pushed it through the finish line.

“Okay lang na injured ka physically, wag lang yung may masama yung pakiramdam mo especially sa Respiratory System mo”

“The pain hurts me so badly, it is almost impossible for me to run again. There comes to a point that I imagined myself in a prosthetic leg, jogging along the street.” Every time he runs, there are three essential things that you have to prepare: Spiritually, Mentally, and Physically. “That is another technique, spiritually kasi kahit natakbo ako, nagdadasal talaga ako, kasi for guidance and alam kong never akong iiwan ni God, tapos Mentally, shempre kung ano dapat gawin ko or strategy, kasi hindi lang naman sya takbo lang kaya dapat mong isipin kung ano gagawin mob ago, during and after, hindi lang puro takbo. And physically syempre dapat physically fit ka, dapat may training ka, tsaka dapat maayos yung treat mo sa katawan mo, hindi porket kaya mo eh dapat mo ng abusuhin, hindi lang kasi puro takbo or takbo lang,” he advised.

“Simula nung mamatay yung Nanay ko, sya yung inspiration ko at pinagdedicate ko ng mga takbo ko at si Guadalupe. Bago ako tumakbo sa mga laban ko, pinupuntahan ko muna yung puntod ni Nanay tapos napunta ako sa simbahan,” that has been his routine and asking for prayers for himself, and dedicating every run to his beloved mother. Right now, he is suffering from Medial Collateral Ligament fracture but that doesn’t stop him from running. He would still continue to run as long as he can. Joel believes that by running, he widens his faith in the beauty of the world and the undescribable things that God has created for humankind to enjoy. Running is just simple to do. Joining to marathon as well, but what is the hard thing to do is do dedicate your life into it. One thing an athlete must always remember that you should always run not for the awards but run for something worthy. It is not just a run, it is not just your body doing the work but it is how you prepare for it and it is about the journey you’ve been in to. As for the 18-year old elite-runner, Joel Idang, his journey was just starting. “Kahit na matupad or natupad na yung mga pangarap ko, never kong iiwan yung pagtakbo, kasi passion ko to eh. Tsaka hanggang kaya, tatakbo ako.” UT

“Aim to be physicall fit. Train well but do not abuse your body. Although running may be your passion, there are still other things in life that you have to face.”

Basketball no more Extremely Unusual Sports

Plato said necessity is the mother of invention. Well, with these extremely unusual sports, can we consider that people are really in need of something new? Weird as these sports may look, every of each serves the same purpose which is to give fun, enjoyment and to establish camaraderie beyond rules and procedures. Considering the following sports, we can say basketball no more! We can now expand our views on some other sports that are unusual. But remember, play any of these at your own risk!

Wife Carrying is an obstacle course race where a man must finish challeneges while carrying a woman!

Ostrich Racing originates in Africa where players sit on ostriches that may reach 16 feet and has a speed of 43 miles per hour.

Toe Wrestling seems like no other thing gets the time of the players as they try to pin each other down by their toes!

Chess Boxing is the irony of palying the violent boxing and the silent chess all at once!

Zorbing is the fun and extreme race inside a huge plastic ball through a stream of water.

Underwater Hockey, invented in UK 1954, is the absurd game as the name implies which require intense stamina.

Shovel Racing make it seem the people in the west is lacking winter games as they race while riding a shovel!

UNION COLLEGE OF LAGUNA, SANTA CRUZ, DIVISION OF LAGUNA

JUNE TO SEPTEMBER 2017 ISSUE 3 NUMBER 1

the union times

nion College community gathered for the opening of this year’s Sports Fest held at UC Study Mall, September 8. Students from Union College School of Integrated Preparatory Studies (UCSIPS), Union College Community Senior High (UCCOSH) and College Department had been grouped into four color teams for the conduct of the sports fest and other school activites. All the four groups, Yellow Pythons, Purple Panthers, Green Vipers and Red Warriors were present in the ceremony together with the muses and escorts of each color team. Making the ceremony more lively was the yell presentations where the competence and energy of each group were showcased. The opening of Sports Fest is only a oneday celebration since the actual conduct of sports activities are yet to be announced. “This is a friendly game and I hope that everyone may show the attitudes of sportsmanship and camaraderie,” Mr. Rod Faustine Dael, UCCOSH Administrator said. UT

Sports Column

Athlete’s Call Annually, Union College set try-outs for their athletes to compete in different leagues in and outside the campus. The players adjusts just to play their passion, make friends and mostly, to represent the school. Academics, intense trainings, dance practice, it was too much for them to handle, especially, when the needs of the athletes doesn’t support by the school, financially. The coaching staff does the job but it is commendable. Was that enough? Biggest No! If they want to qualify in higher leagues, they must hire a legitimate coach for the athlete’s better performance. How can the Athletes perform well if the support of the management wasn’t enough? “Nung first training naming literal na patayan. Open yung court, tapos kailangan pang humapit.” MM Samonteza, Player of Women’s basketball said. Adjusting was not on the players, it was also on the management. It was lie playing Badminton but your opponent does not make a single move. Or playing Basketball with Incomplete players inside the court… Matamlay… Walang gana. “Hindi na nakapagtataka,” you can count with just your single hand of how many times did the school qualified in Unit Meet. That was just like the First Half of the game as the Coach of the Basketball team said. “Nakaka motivate din kasi yung mga bata. Kita mo yung dedikasyon nila na ipanalo yung laban eh. Kaya hopefully, makabawi kami,” Mr. Rojean Camacho said despite major setbacks of the game. Will the Union College make a History or it will be just a dream… again? UT

Dominant win

UC hosts Sports Fest ‘17 opening by Abby Osio

sports

Union keeps unblemished; sweeps AMA, 2-0 by Junette Abad

HIT TO VICTORY. Mr. Jervie Bauanan looks after the Union College Female Volleyball team as one of the players spikes her way to victory.

close win against the AMA University was clinched by the Union College as they bowed down the trash talking opponent on their intense volleyball match during 2017 Unit Meet held at the Laguna Sports Complex, 25-22 and 25-23. Stacey Lopez’s consistency at the wing spot gave them the win as he vigorously destroyed the blockers of AMA. Lopez, who tallied 13 points all from attacks backed up by the offensive setting skills of Lodilee De Leon claimed the opening set with their fancy combination plays and front row defense. Tied at 22 apiece, De Leon made a crucial drop shot followed by a quick hit and a block from Pau-

la Melocoton to steal the opening set. AMA’s wing spiker didn’t let Union to win easily as the team led on the first half of the second set 8-4. At this moment, trash talks from both sides made the match more intense as the team keeps its composure to close the game in two. “Malaking tulong ang teamwork at one month na training, dapat lang iwasan ang pag-init ng ulo” said the 18 year old team captain. Both at 23, Lopez deliver a crucial point from a differential combination play which fooled the blockers of their opponent followed easily by a miscommunication on the reception to close out the game. UT

“Malaking tulong ang teamwork at one month na training, dapat lang iwasan ang pag-init ng ulo” - Lodilee De Leon

Back to back title

Salon overpowers Cada in Table Tennis by Abby Osio

ith the strong determination to achieve another victory, grade 10 student Hcandle Salon won over Edry Cada, 2-0 to notch the men’s single table tennis event title held at Union College School of Integrated Preparatory Studies, Sept 8. Oppressive heat did not stop Salon as he dominantly scores to surpass a hard to beat Cada. His cross court chips and chops gave him an early lead, 5-2 on the opening set. Salon continued to shine as he ended the set with an ace, 10-8. Cada meanwhile, doubles his effort to atleast tie the game on but the long rally between the two ended in favor of Salon, 8-7 to add some thriller on the game. Salon remained tough as he run into the game and not allowing Cada to get back on the game. Two consecutive vigorous shot from Salon ended the game resulting to a score of 10-8 win in favor of the defending champion. UT

POWER SERVE. PB Quintos amplifies her killer service during the Table Tennis Match in this year’s Unit Sports Meet, Laguna Sports Complex.

Sports Editorial

Balancing Time School intramurals is undeniably a highly anticipated event every school year. Athletes battling for the spotlight are the highlights of the event. With this, they are making sure to give their best shot each game. "No pain no Gain” as the saying goes to gain athletes undergo arduous training requiring hard work and time. But being an athlete and as a student demands good time management and often times it is a struggling task. The athlete's strong desire to win whether for fame, enjoyment or scholarships lead to situations pushing them to their limit. They tend to give a lot of their times in trainings and preparation and neglect their academic duties. In order to deal with this scenario, the schools assign coaches to all athletes train them physically as well as served as their guidance in balancing their activities. Sports is indeed a good avenue of interest for students. It develops physical and mental strength as well as introduces camaraderie. But engagement in sports does not need to set aside academic duties. It is important to develop time management and self-discipline. UT

the union times

163

Medals for PH in the 29th SEA Games

Read this on page 18

A Unionite’s Story of Running Through Obstacles of Life

SPORTS UNION COLLEGE, SANTA CRUZ, LAGUNA VOLUME 2 ISSUE 1

JUNE - SEPTEMBER 2017

3-sets thriller

De Leon pushes Vipers to outlast Panthers by Junette Abad

faith

runner AGILE SERVICE. Kate Castillo of Union College Women’s Volleyball Team exhibits full potential as she take the opportunity to serve at their match on 2017 Unit Meet at Laguna Sports Complex. [photo courtesy of

B SPORTS EDITORIAL

“Being an athlete and as a student demands good time management and often times it is a struggling task.”

y winning the last two frames of the game, a come from behind victory was registered by the Green Vipers led by Lodilee De Leon over the defending champions, Purple Panthers on their volleyball exhibition game held at the Union College School of Integrated Preparatory Studies, 19-25, 25-22, 15-11. Sept 8. De Leon, who tallied a total of 16 points, 14 from attacks and 2 from the service line, rallied his team to upset the defending champs. Explosive spikes and solid defense from both side since the start of the game makes an explicit game play for the audience to watch which everyone is already expecting from both

teams. Panthers championship experience gave them an early, 15-8 score, its biggest lead on the start of the game. Vipers meanwhile, proved that they aren’t easy to be beaten as they climb back from 6 points deficit to inch closer by 2, 17-15. Panthers made a huge run which gave them a consistent 6 point lead to end the first set, 25-19 to take the opening set. Setting a four consecutive spikes by Viper’s player, De Leon, changes the tide of the game and giving a challenge against their opponents having a rift between the scores. Tactics from both sides made the second frame a close one but the determination and team work of Vipers gave them the