The Augustinian - Volume LXIX - August 2022

USA conducts F2F grad after 2-year hiatus

University of San Agustin made headlines when it finally eyes to hold face-toface graduation ceremony set on July 9, 2022, at the USA Gym.

AS THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC AFFLICTED the whole world and easing health restrictions were delineated, parents beaming with pride were finally allowed to watch their children be conferred with their degrees that they can never just capture in virtual ceremonies.

“The present pandemic of Covid-19 which, we all hope will be gone soon, has set us to our limits. We must be true, resilient, persevering; honest, fearless, cautious, compassionate; and strong in our resolutions and decisions. There is no instant formula to overcome difficulties, but as Augustinian students, we are well prepared for it,” claimed Mr. Eugenio Michael O. Plana, doctorate in Humanities, Honoris Causa, during the commencement exercise.

Ensuring that proper health and safety precautions in the event were monitored, such as the wearing of face masks and observance

Iloilo sets off in Netflix’s A Love to Kill

BY NICOLE ROSE D. FENITA

University responds to typhoon hit areas

ACCENTUATING the mandate towards disaster response among communities, the University of San Agustin conducted relief goods operations at typhoon Odette stricken areas of Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental and Bais City, Negros Oriental last December 29-30, Ati Community of Brgy. Igcalawagan, Tobias Fornier Antique on February 15 (CHIC), and at Agaton hit areas of Ajuy and Sara, Iloilo, April 18.

Six hundred beneficiaries from Sitios Dangalon, Danao, Antonio, Kasipsipan

signs and symptoms. The safety

DepEd Bridge learning Gaps Post Pandemic

BY PAULINE MARIE C. ARADA

THE FILIPINO ADAPTATION of the Korean series “A Love to Kill” was shot in various locations throughout the city and province of Iloilo between February 25 and April 5, 2022.

Several filming locations included the city’s majestic tourist and historical sites, such as the downtown Soccoro Building and the significant Ker and Co. Building in Ortiz; as well as the municipal cemetery in Janiuay.

Launched last February 2022, the University of San Agustin innovated a digital tool for staff and students to self-report COVID-19 exposure within the school premise. Personal details are encoded, as well as the cycle of transmission from exposure to manifestation of

officer will then contact the patient via email or phone number while upholding the right to confidentiality.

Strengthening learning remediation and intervention, DepEd provides post-pandemic learning gaps with strategized recovery programs to address the learners’ socio-emotional recovery.

In the recent 2022 election, in the ardent pursuit of fostering equity and prosperity, Augustinians were asked what they could compromise to meet halfway with the formidable team of the two highest elective posts in the nation.

COURTESY CALL. Actor Ian Veneracion visits Mayor Trenas after filming for their new movie, A Love to Kill.

BESTOWING HONOR. The University of San Agustin confirmed rites of Honoris Causa to Eugenio Michael Plana during the face-to-face graduation ceremony.

SIGH OF RELIEF. Packs of goods were handed to the residents affected of typhoon Odette, Agaton.

TYPHOON

BY PIA VICTORIA E. GRAZA

With a highly anticipated referendum, significant implications for everyone at a time when political conflict in the Philippines is at its peak; Filipinos have been victimized by political disinformation and historical revisionism once again.

USA Hails 6th best University in PH Out of 138 exceptional universities in the Philippines, USA bags sixth place along with three Augustinians included in the World’s Top 100 Scientists in the Philippines.

USA inaugurates Dinagyang Monument

BY MERYL B. BABOL

IN COMMEMORATION of the 500th anniversary celebration of Christianity in the Philippines, the University of San Agustin unveiled the winning piece of the 2021 Dinagyang Monument Competition at Esplanade 4, April 2.

The ceremonial inauguration of Arch. Adonis Canonicato’s winning design was celebrated in coordination with the Zonta Club of Iloilo City, Office of the City Mayor, Office of the Congressman of Lone District of Iloilo City, Province of Iloilo, and the Iloilo Festivals Foundation, Inc.

“This monument is important to us as it showcases the various positive contributions the first missionary made for the development of our nation as a country. The first missionaries were Augustinian Friars, and that is why the university is invested in this project”, expressed University President Fr. Frederick C. Comendador, OSA, in his opening remarks.

Meanwhile, Arch. Adonis Canonicato discussed how various significant events in Dinagyang’s history influenced his winning design.

“The Dinagyang Monument [is] composed of three tableaus of different themes: the giving of the Sto. Niño de Cebu image to Queen Juana in 1521; the rediscovery of the image of the Sto. Niño de Cebu; and the birth of the Dinagyang Festival through the Sto. Niño,” shared Canonicato.

Comendador noted that the monument is envisioned not only to add to the different attractions that Iloilo City is now known for but also to give an accurate historical depiction of how the festival came about and how the feast of the Sto. Nino came to be celebrated.

Furthermore, Iloilo City’s lone district Representative Julienne Baronda stated that the Dinagyang monument would urge the Ilonggo community to remain conscious of their culture while yearning for growth.

“May this Dinagyang monument enhance our appreciation of our unique tangible and intangible heritage, boost our tourism sector, and strengthen our faith and trust with one another,” stated Baronda.

The monument, which will be built on Esplanade 4, is expected to cost up to PHP 35 Million.

of social distancing, contributed to the success of the rites.

“Covid-19 has been the biggest adversity that has come and affected our generation. Yes, nothing is more adverse than the present pandemic, but we aim to recover and sustain our recovery against this adversity,” said Plana.

After two years of resorting to virtual graduations, a few Augustinian graduates shared their experiences regarding the change.

It has been two years since we’ve been able to interact with each other in any way other than virtually, so this is a genuinely bittersweet occasion,” said College of Law (COL) Juris Doctor graduate Sweet Zel Grace Porras, in an interview with The Augustinian.

Furthermore, another Augustinian graduate shared her experience as a K-12 pioneer who spent her last two years in an online setup.

“Imagining our class walking inside the halls of the academe wearing our black regalias, the symbol of the fruit of our and our parents’ years of hard work, was a beautiful scenery. Having been able to witness that imagination turning into a reality was quite a beautiful and emotional memory that I hold on to,” opined Maryvic Toque, a Political Science graduate of the College of Liberal Arts Science and Education (CLASE).

Meanwhile, on March 7, 2022, Department of Education Secretary Leonor Briones stated that the conduct of face-to-face graduation will follow with the continuation of physical classes, as it was additionally claimed that rules on how to hold in-person graduation ceremonies in the new normal are being prepared by the Office of the Undersecretary for Curriculum and Instruction.

“Our risk assessment for different regions—different schools are improving. If

this continues, the chances of being allowed to conduct face-to-face graduation also increase. Since different schools are starting to open for face-to-face classes, physical graduation rites are also possible,” stated Briones.

After all the hard work and enduring two years of remote learning, graduates should be given the experience of marching to the graduation hymn, provided by the safety protocols that are duly followed.

“Out of this adversity, we will evolve more and innovate—we cohere and fit ourselves and, therefore, we will manage to survive and recover from this adversity and affliction. Fear no adversity, as this is our legacy with our Alma Mater. Keep it, hold on to it, and be proud of it, and when the time comes, use it with wisdom and reason,” concluded Plana.

As it veers close to what seems to be the end of the pandemic, people hope for more face-to-face graduation ceremonies in the future.

and Lupni in Brgy. Hilamonan, Kabankalan, Sitio Dapdap, Brgy. Cabalanlutan and Sitios Masa, Marina, Cambado in Brgy. Talungon, Bais City received the donations initiated by the Social Advocacy and Community Engagement Office (SACEO), the apostolate arm of the university.

“We put up a system in Negros Occidental and Oriental to identify the recipients because the University wanted and really focused on those who were not reached by the local government units or other support. We coordinated with the bishop of Kabankalan and Augustinian sisters in Bais with Mam Riza Riboso [of guidance office] as our advance parties,” added Rodolfo Betito Jr., Director of SACEO.

University president Fr. Frederick C. Comendador with Fr. Jonas M. Mejares, Fr. Pederito A. Aparece, Fr. Ian V. Ragodon, and 16 academic and non-academic personnel of USA led the distribution of 10 kilos rice, assorted groceries, 2 10 L jerry cans, detergent, soap, hygiene kit, new and slightly used clothes which Mr. Betito described as a continuous spirit of bayanihan.

“One of the things that we cannot forget is people expressing their gratitude ‘nakalab-ot gid man sa amon ang bulig’ because some of them were not able to receive help. There were also some who were not included in the list because they already received goods from LGU, so the recipients shared ‘hindi kamo magproblema, Sir, kay kun magtig-ang kami, sakupon namon sanda. Despite the tragedy, they still know the bayanihan and the spirit of helping,” added Betito.

Further, the university also reached out to typhoon Agaton affected areas of Ajuy and Sara, Iloilo after an ocular inspection conducted by SACEO, National Service Training Program (NSTP), and 2 faculty members.

Thirty Augustinian volunteers distributed 222 goods to Brgy. Puente Bunglas, Ajuy and 375 in Brgy. Poblacion Ilawod and Brgy Ferraris, Sara which were made possible through the benevolent hearts of the donors, alumni, and volunteer groups composed mainly of academic and nonacademic personnel of the school.

“It’s the community service and focus in disaster response that [is] really the main [goal] of [NSTP]- CWTS and was realized by helping the victims of the typhoons,” said Ma. Consolacion Centeno, NSTP Coordinator.

A mass was then held at Brgy. Puente Bunglas, Ajuy which sought to enrich

spiritual nourishment among the typhoon victims.

“It is very heartwarming that the Augustinian community answered our call to help our brethren who were affected by Typhoon Odette and Agaton, manifesting such values through these actions,” said Mary Divine De Villaluna, USA- Student Government President who facilitated the donation drive.

“Nalipay guid ako nga mapabugal naton ang ciudad sa bilog nga kalibutan paagi sa miniseries nga i-shoot diri mismo sa Ciudad sang Paghigugma! (I am very happy that we will be able to show our beloved city to the whole world through this miniseries that will be personally filmed in the City of Love),” shared Mayor Jerry Treñas in a Facebook post.

The said drama revolved around the story of a revengeseeking main character that eventually led to a forbidden love, where the audiences are expected to clench numerous plot twists in its entirety.

The month-long shoot in the city was directed by Lester Pimentel and led by Studio Three Sixty in its production.

“[...] the Iloilo City Tourism office helps the production team in choosing locations for the series,” revealed Junel Ann Divinagracia, City Tourism officer, in an interview with Pep. PH.

Ian Veneracion and Andrea Torres starred in the said series will be aired on the Netflx streaming service site, which can be accessed internationally.

Alongside the main cast were seasoned actors and actresses, namely Joel Torre, Justin Cuyugan, Nicole Cordoves, Louise Abuel, Pepe Herrera, Ponciano Bernardo, and Aljur Abrenica.

Meanwhile, Mayor Jerry Treñas expressed his full support for the success of their project.

USA hails sixth best university in the PH

BY NICOLE ROSE D. FENITA

THE UNIVERSITY OF SAN AGUSTIN bagged sixth place out of 138 Philippine universities in the AlperDöğer Scientific Index alongside three Augustinian educators listed in the 2022 top 100 scientists in the country.

Dr. Christopher Marlowe Caipang, Dr. Relicardo Coloso, and Dr. Doralyn Dalisay of the College of Liberal Arts, Sciences, and Education Department of Chemistry and Physics and Department of Biology were ranked 18th, 37th, and 69th, respectively, with their research focusing on various scientific fields.

“I am happy because my work is being cited, meaning I am contributing to the progression of science not only in the Philippines but in the world, [...] and this gives a feeling of satisfaction in the sense that you are contributing towards the advancement of knowledge,” shared Caipang.

Dr. Caipang researches aquaculture, aquatic animal health, fish and shellfish immunology, diagnostics, and vaccinology; Dr. Coloso

concentrates on nutritional biochemistry, fish nutrition, aquatic feed development, and environmental toxicology; and Dr. Dalisay deals with drug discovery, microbial, plant and marine natural products, chemistry, and plant-microbe interactions.

“[…] it is a humbling experience to be included in the list because I know my peers in the scientific community are brilliant and hardworking professionals in their respective fields of endeavor,” said Coloso.

Moreover, Alper-Döğer Scientific Index revealed that they had been advancing a ranking system that uses numerous methodologybased principles that only comprised worthy scientists; where it itemized and ranked academicians and universities all over the world through the use of Google Scholar’s total h-index scores established by Prof. Dr. Murat Alper (MD) of Sağlık Bilimleri Üniversitesi and Associate Prof. Dr. Cihan Döğer (MD) of Ankara Şehir Hastanesi who are all based in Turkey.

TYPHOON PAGE A2

A MARK IN HISTORY. Inauguration of Dinagyang Monument has taken place along esplanade 4 where it will soon rise.

PINNACLE OF EDUCATION. USA reigns as one of the best universities as Alper Doger Scientific Index ranked the institution 6th as the topranking university in the Philippines for 2022.

USA PUB PHOTO • ROTSEN C. AGREDA

USA PUB PHOTO • BENZ XEDRIC D. PUIG

USA Pub holds 12th Gusting Webinar

BY ATHENA CHRISTY L. SOLEDAD

THE USA PUBLICATIONS held the 12th Gusting Journalism Webinar with the theme “Redefining Journalism in the Age of New Media” on February 19, 2022, 1-4 PM via Zoom.

The webinar was centered on traditional press writing going digital with social media platforms, highlighting the urgency to push the boundaries of press restrictions and censorship, ensure the validity of information, creatively utilize art for activism, and portray timely issues through photography and

documentaries.

“As student journalists, we are at the forefront of educating and entertaining the public, however, in the past year, journalism has dramatically shifted to online platforms [...], this advancement causing difficulties in bringing unbiased and evidence-based

news to the public,” remarked USA Publications Editor-in-Chief Emy Rose Gallego in her speech.

The first among the Gusting Webinar’s speakers was Rappler’s justice and corruption reporter, Lian Buan, whose lecture, “Challenges in the Age of New Media: Fighting Disinformation and Defending Press Freedom,” conditioned the participants to combat press restrictions and the spread of fake news.

“We

was the rhetorical question raised by Buan to the participants during the talk.

After Buan’s talk, Cartoonist Zach, the Chief Creative Officer and Illustration Supervisor for Assortedge, the former Chief Illustrator of Today’s CAROLINIAN, and a member of Cartooning for Peace and Cartoon Movement platform shared his artistic skills,

experience, and wisdom on the second topic, “Art as a Medium of Dissent.”

“The media has a bias – it has always been biased towards the truth, which means whatever you write and draw, the opinion should always be anchored with the truth,” advised Zach.

Moreover, Philstar Global and Interaksyon Editor-in-Chief Camille Diola also conveyed her thoughts on editorial

leadership in her talk, “Digital Journalism: Managing Online News Production,” sharing the roles she took on, the challenges she faced, and the lessons she learned from leading an online publication.

“No matter the medium or platform, purpose, and method are what make a piece of content journalism,” expressed Diola, as she gave the editor’s responsibilities, one of which was maintaining high standards in knowing which information to disclose due to communal and societal needs.

Lastly, Raffy Lerma, a Manila-based freelance photographer with 12 years of experience as a Philippine Daily Inquirer staff member documenting various narratives like those of drug war victims and street protests through his works, equipped participants with skills in communicating truth through visuals in his discourse, “Documentary Photography: A Recollection of Visual Storytelling.”

“You have to defend your truth; you have to defend your stories from those who discredit you,” he counseled as he recalled the dangers he faced as a documentary photographer.

After showing appreciation to the speakers, the 12th Gusting Webinar concluded with a recap, wherein the participants shared their key takeaways and personal experiences as student journalists and vanguards of truth.

“I am very glad that I attended the USA Publications webinar kasi bigatin ng mga speakers - they are all great journalists known locally [...] and mukhang napaka-epektibo ng kanilang advice,” expressed Niad Joy Reontoy, the participant who won the ‘takeaway giveaway’ for sharing her musings as the webinar drew to a close.

Publications initiates webinar for PDL

“Back then, detained individuals did not have the right to vote, but the Aguinaldo v. New Bilibid Prison case allowed the Supreme Court to grant the persons detained the right to suffrage in the national and party-list elections,” explained Atty. Junine Wednesday Java, regional legal officer of DILG Region 6, guest speaker of the webinar.

Aside from PDL’s rights, the involvement of the government and DILG in extending executive aid for PDL was also highlighted in the program, which Maria Cristy Daguay, Moderator of USA Publications, reiterated in her remarks.

“This webinar will help you [PDLs] and us, USA Publications, understand how important it is to know the role of the government, particularly the DILG, in guiding us on our rightful choices and ensuring that everyone is safe and protected during elections,” stated Daguay.

concerns on the May 9 presidential election.

“We are thankful to everyone for their time and effort to give us knowledge on how to vote in the upcoming elections, which made us realize that we are not persons deprived of liberty because we were not deprived of our right to vote,” shared PDL Rachelle Pirote.

Along with the publication, the corrections officers of the city jail were represented by Senior Jail Officer II Jesus A. Colendres, Unit Paralegal Officer, who expressed his gratitude for the conduct of the webinar as well as sharing his gist on making rightful choices.

“Destiny is not a matter of chance but a matter of choice, so it lies in our hands the decision to choose for the future of our country and city,” said Colendres.

BY PIA VICTORIA E. GRAZA

In contrast to the Omnibus Election Code, which prohibits inmate voting, the event kicked off by reiterating the mandate of Article 1 Sections 1-2

Furthermore, questions regarding the registration of voters and resolutions for PDL voting were raised during the open forum giving PDLs a platform to voice out their

As the webinar on voter’s education wrapped, USA Publications staff headed to the City Jail to present the hygiene package, which included a dental kit, menstrual pads, soap, shampoo, masks, alcohol, and groceries while conforming to the jail’s basic health procedures.

INCULCATING ELECTORAL KNOWLEDGE among 105 persons deprived of liberty (PDL), the USA Publications spearheaded the “Impormasyon sa Eleksyon” webinar to the Iloilo City District Jail-Female Dormitory, March 12.

are arbiters of truth, so why can’t we do it together?”

MODERN DAY PIETA.

Award-winning

photographer

Raffy Lerma sharing about his photojournalism journey during the 2022 Gusting Webinar.

VOTEDUCATION. USA Publications organizes the “Impormasyon sa Eleksyon” virtual seminar for PDL, March 12.

USA PUB PHOTO • ROTSEN C. AGREDA

USA PUB PHOTO • ANGEL O. OCTOSO

of the 1987 Philippine Constitution and Article 21 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which raise the right to vote among PDL.

Augustinians top board exams, reap awards

BY ATHENA CHRISTY L. SOLEDAD

SEVERAL AUGUSTINIANS nabbed top places in the licensure examinations and regional and national recognition halfway this 2022.

John Layson Palma, a faculty member of the Psychology Program of the College of Liberal Arts, Sciences, and Education (CLASE) of the University, placed ninth with a rating of 83.50 percent in the Psychologist Licensure Examination.

Meanwhile, Merry Mae Cabale grabbed 10th place with an 87.40 percent rating in the Philippine Nursing Licensure Examination.

Moreover, Adelmar

Javier Jr., a former USA Student Government (USASG) President and currently a fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service (BSFS) student of the University, was recognized as one of the college awardees of The Outstanding Students of Iloilo Awards (TOSIA), one of the programs of Junior Chamber International (JCI) Regatta that judges graduating students who excel in areas of leadership, academics, and faith.

USASG adopts Constitution and By Laws Anew

BY OSCAR MARI G. FAJARDO

Secretariat of the Constitutional Reform Committee shared the process that the newly ratified constitution underwent, citing first the ‘date-locked’ provisions of the previous charter.

In an interview with The Augustinian, Kathlyn Marie Lim, an easy task, as with just a click of a button, the information would be communicated to the different social media accounts of the students using pub mats, but the problem is, how can we make sure that those students will read the details being shared,” said Javelona.

“There are several reasons why we proposed constitutional reforms: The first was the date-locked articles, such as the elections for the firstyear representatives and the national elections,” said Lim.

To this, Lim noted that the pandemic had changed how the University begins and ends the academic year, and the election dates cited in the constitution were situated during the summer terms.

“Another was that there were no provisions or sections that provided how we address or who can allow the change of dates,” she added.

Moreover, withstanding the goal of institutional reform, the new charter also introduced a judicial branch for the student government.

“Other reasons were to include systems that we believe would assist the USASG in better serving and assisting the students like the newlyintroduced Student Court, which serves as a grievance and impeachment court,” Lim further mentioned.

Meanwhile, Gabriel Seth Javelona, chairperson of the Student Commission on Elections, detailed the difficulties of organizing a plebiscite in a virtual set-up, with the biggest challenge shared being how to ensure students would participate in such events.

“Sharing information is

Memoriam

Obliviating the Oblivion

“The dead will never be dead to us until we have forgotten them.” The ultimatum line of George Eliot instilled the recent passing of the two pillars of the University of San Agustin have left such wonderful years, cascading memories with their twilight years hanging like a feeble bridge. Now, there’s only a fond farewell, parting words, and fallen tears. All daylight is gone; no warmth remains.

Meanwhile, following the plebiscite, the USA Student Government held its election under the newly adopted charter with Ram Angelie Valasote as the newly elected president.

“This year is extrachallenging because we are expecting various transitions that will surely play a role in how we are going to plan, prepare, and conduct our programs,” voiced Valasote.

Looking ahead to the incoming school year, Valasote shared with The Augustinian her vision for the student body, highlighting the inclusion of the high school department and their hopes for fewer restrictions for limited face-to-face activities.

“We found a way to better structure the student government, and that is already a huge step as we try to take over the next academic year, and we hope that the students will be able to find themselves participating and having fun after being isolated for the past two years,” she continued.

Valasote, then a lone candidate for President under the Partido ng Makabayang Agustino, received 3,907 votes in the elections.

Seven decades of existence, and almost half of it did Dr. Teves invested her time and service at the USA. She was a former President of USA Faculty and Personnel Association (USAFAPA), first Vice President and long-serving officer of the USA Alumni Association, and President of USA Faculty Association Cooperative Credit Union. Apart from her excellency in leadership positions.

Dr. Teves garnered several awards and recognitions:

2009 Gawad Geny Lopez Jr. Bayaning Pilipino Awards (for Visayas and Mindanao)

2010 Nutritionist Dietician of the Year

2012 One of The Outstanding Women of Iloilo City

2016 Alumni Achievement Awardee for Community and Public Service

2017 Most Outstanding Professional of the Year in Nutrition and Dietetics by PRC

Dr. Sofia Cosette P. Monteblanco

February 1, 1951 - November 25, 2021

Dr. Monteblanco embarked on her lifelong journey of love and compassion right after she fulfilled her purpose with success—a beloved teacher, colleague, mentor, good friend, and loved one of many. With her 38 years of service in the USA, she inculcated Augustinian values and spent her time educating her students with passion and purpose.

Dr. Teves’ and Dr. Monteblanco’s legacies will forever live in the hearts and minds of the Augustinians. Neither years nor tears can wipe away those beautiful memories they have created. These remembrances will keep these remarkable people from falling into oblivion. They will continue to have a special place in the Augustinian community, symbolizing the truism of dutiful and diplomatic. Truly, during these sorrowful times, a solace was found indeed.

Dr. Lilia S. Teves, RND, MBA

August 22, 1946- July 29, 2021

University Registrar and Former Dean, College of Commerce

Former Dean, College of Health and Allied Medical Professions

RECEIVING 3,032 VOTES, the 2019 Constitution and By-Laws of the USA Student Government has been repealed by the 2022 Constitution and By-Laws through a plebiscite held May 11, 2022

Iloilo bags BLGF Best Fiscal Management Award

and Corporate Affairs Group Antonette C. Tionko also appeared as she recognized and commended the local government unit officials who exhibited governance, innovation, and best practices.

“We count on our partnership with the LGUs to revive our economic activity in the coming months as the national government continues to work with you to keep your constituents healthy and your local economies functioning,” Tionko expressed in her keynote speech.

As the webinar came to a close, a forum was held where challenges faced during the pandemic, capacitating IT personnel, investing in the electronic collection and payment systems, and their possible significance in improving fiscal management was discussed and further expounded by BLGF Executive Director Niño Raymond Alvina.

“We are still continuing our search for model LGUs that we could share and certainly feature in the coming weeks as we identify and thematic areas where good practices in financial management are highlighted,” expressed Alvina in his final remarks.

October 19, 2021 via Zoom, was given in recognition of the Iloilo Local Government Unit’s Local Government Unit’s effective practices in rationing out funds

Ferolino chairs TF Kontra Bigay

BY PIA VICTORIA E. GRAZA

COMMISSION ON ELECTIONS’

TASK FORCE

KONTRA BIGAY, last May 2022 elections, was headed by Commissioner Aimee Ferolino, appointed March 30.

Ferolino, who was described by Commissioner George Erwin Garcia to be ‘qualified for the post,’ said that the commissioner has vast experience as the former provincial election supervisor of Davao del Norte before being delegated by President Duterte in the COMELEC.

“Commissioner Ferolino is a very brave commissioner – she is the vice chairman of security personnel exemption and the chairman of various committees, such as the shipping committee,” said Garcia in an interview with GMA News.

Designated as the chairman of the task force, Ferolino was tasked to draft additional guidelines and resolutions applicable to election-related irregularities, specifically in the case of vote-buying reports.

“She will be the one who will call for a meeting of the task force, draft necessary additional guidelines, and at the same time, implement COMELEC mandate either to moto propio or accept complaints concerning votebuying,” added Garcia.

Aside from the COMELEC, the anti-vote-buying team was partaken by the Department of Justice (DOJ), National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), National

Prosecution Service (NPS), Public Attorney’s Office (PAO), and Department of Justice Action Center (DOJAC).

“Considering the importance of the forthcoming elections to the survival and recovery of the nation, I will direct the DOJ contingent to give the highest priority to this campaign in the next 40 days,” uttered Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra in Inquirer as he assured that the DOJ backs the TF.

Moreover, the task force officially started its mandate before the election day, and as of May 30, 940 complaints in their emails were received, but only 49 were submitted with supporting evidence, while 105 reports were noted at the Comelec Law department.

“From the total of 1,110 reports from the FB page and the Official email of Kontra Bigay, 210 concerned citizens are requested to file their affidavit together with their evidence for a potential motu proprio case against the persons involved in vote buying or selling,” the Task Force said in an interview with Manila Bulletin.

It is clearly stated in the Omnibus Election Code that “money or anything of value in order to induce anyone or the public, in general, to vote for or against any candidate or withhold his vote in the election” is prohibited as public officials involved will be restricted to serve his term while the organization pays for the fine.

in COVID-19 response initiatives like frontliner and public protection, financial assistance, and delivery of education.

October 19, 2021, via Zoom, was given in recognition of the Iloilo Local Government Unit’s effective practices in rationing out funds and Resources,”

expressed Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas.

Treñas also shared insights and experiences in the areas of digitization of revenue and operations assessment, further adding that the Iloilo City LGU’s recovery initiatives and allocation for vaccination, medicine, and medical equipment laboratory

development were recognized by the BLGF.

“Our good fiscal management has resulted in the highest-ever surplus last year of almost 500 million,” shared Treñas.

Department of Finance (DOF) Undersecretary for Revenue Operations Group

Iloilo City, which was among 3 LGUs awarded (the other two were Antipolo and General Santos City), was also previously commended by the BLGF in July 2021 for topping the 16 cities and provinces in Region VI in Real Property Tax with a collection efficiency rating of 181 percent.

DepEd to bridge Learning Gaps Post-Pandemic

Briones stated that with the transition of schools from online to physical classes, the recovery plan is part of DepEd’s postpandemic efforts.

“We have to ensure that our interventions are effective so that everyone can catch up and accelerate their learning,” Briones said.

In addition to that statement, DepEd curriculum and instruction Assistant Secretary Alma Torio highlighted that the plan is built on learning remediation and intervention, professional development, health, safety, and wellness for students and teachers involved.

“Kasama po diyan ‘yung

[It includes] extending school calendar, expanding ng learning time, establishing learning support center in schools and community-based learning spaces, conducting summer learning remediation and intervention programs, and hiring of additional learning support aides,” Torio explained.

On top of those protocols, DepEd is aiming to further strengthen reading interventions and establish literacy among students with regular home visits and followups, incorporating study groups/ buddy systems (virtual and physical), utilizing the services of parent or guardian teachervolunteers

appropriate assessment tasks and resources.

“Under this concept, we would like to address learners’ socio-emotional and behavioral recovery,” Torio noted in addition to reinforcing Oplan Kalusugan (a plan to ensure safety, health, well-being of learners for both distance and face to face learning), online child protection, and implementation of helplines or health lines.

However, there are still concerns surrounding the recovery plan from the perspective of the community such as in the case of Patty who, under a pseudonym, shared her observations while helping her niece who is studying in 5th grade regarding the flaws of the effort.

“Ang concern ko gid is ang quality control sang matudlo, especially kay may plano sila

nga i-include ang services sang mga parents and guardians kag para man sa proteksyon sang mga bata, amo sina dapat ipatrain kag ipa-seminar ang mga maestra kag mga volunteers [My concern is the quality control for the educators, especially since they plan on including services from parents and guardians and to protect the children, which is why teachers and volunteers should first be trained and attend seminars],” Patty commented in an interview with The Augustinian along with concerned sentiments regarding manpower and budget.

Torio notes that the Phase 1 of the plan is to begin in the Summer of 2022, Phase 2 in the school year 2022-2023, and phase 3 in S.Y. 2023-2024 with each phase addressing implementations increasing from short-term to long-term improvements.

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION (DepEd) has its focus set on addressing the post-pandemic learning gaps with the development of a recovery plan, as announced by DepEd Secretary Leonor Briones, March 29.

on top of improving

BY EUGENIE A. BALURAN

REAP THE REWARD. Iloilo City among 3 LGUs recognized for having the best fiscal management during the pandemic, March 25.

TRANSITIONING TO FACE TO FACE. Secretary Briones calls for a plan to bridge the learning gap due to online classes.

FILE PHOTO • ILOILOTODAY

FILE PHOTO • RAPPLER

THE BUREAU OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE (BLGF) awarded Iloilo City with Best Fiscal Management in Efficient Allocation of Funds and Resources during the COVID-19 pandemic, October 2021.

The award, which was given through the “Launching of LGU Best Practices in Local Fiscal Management during the COVID-19 Pandemic” webinar on

BY ATHENA CHRISTY L. SOLEDAD

INFOGRAPHICS • HANNAH JHANYLLE C. PO AND DYLAN JACOB K. SUAREZ

With an 83 percent voter turnout from the 2022 national elections, UniTeam Alliance’s political party candidates Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Sara Zimmerman Duterte swept the country’s voting population by 16 million and 22 million lead, respectively. The first, highest, and fastest election turnout in the Philippines’ automated election history has enabled a historic comeback to the Marcoses’ reign to power since their family’s fall in 1986 to the revolt of the Filipino people against the late dictator, Ferdinand Marcos Sr.’s, regime.

Ironic as it may seem, the power of the people who trampled and put an end to the Philippines’ darkest political history also served as scaffolding for the Marcoses to rebuild influence and return to power. Despite the efforts of public education about the Martial law era, a bandwagon of political disinformation and historical revisionism has victimized the country’s education-deprived Filipino people.

Following the decisive victory of Marcos Jr. and Sara Duterte in the 2022 national election, all eyes, emotions, and criticisms were directed to the poll body, the Commission on Elections, for claims of electoral fraud and ineptitude in handling the election process. On the other hand, the Filipino people saw the 2022 national elections as a way out of the roughest road of struggles brought by the COVID-19 pandemic and the downturn’s economic effects. At the height of great polarization in the Philippine political climate, a high-hoped referendum of this magnitude has contentious consequences for everyone.

The public accuses the poll body of irregularities that made the election results suspicious. However, evident systemic irregularities in the polls have been pointed out and traced in the ability of the COMELEC to resolve cases and petitions filed before their authority. This has fueled public opinion rather strongly against the feat of

Marcos Jr. in the slow resolution of petitions for disqualification against his candidacy.

Although the blame has not been entirely shifted to the Commission at first, a series of events in the past and pre-election hearings regarding disqualification cases against the Marcoses have fueled the country’s experts on political affairs to doubt the erroneous decision of the electoral commission body in disqualification cases despite the substantial evidence provided and the COMELEC’s blind eye in favor of the Marcoses’ appeal.

In February, then COMELEC Commissioner Rowena Guanzon cried out in public, accusing Commissioner Aimee Ferolino of delaying the promulgation of the decision in order to exclude her vote, which Ferolino refuted, citing that a 15-day period to draft a resolution is not applicable to the consolidated cases against Marcos. Although initial decisions were rendered by the poll body’s divisions, their en banc just released their decision with the then-pending cases on May 10, 2022, a day after the national polls were held. This internal struggle within the poll body adds to the public’s doubt about its integrity to deliver honest election results.

Setting political quarrels, the journalistic world, whose purpose is to serve as watchdogs of the government and relay factual information and facts to the public, has also been involved in various uproars of political dissent for doing what it is supposed to do. The general public, estranged from the accredited media outlets, resorted to vloggers and TikTok content creators for information, thus creating a network of circulating revisioned facts that sought to influence, change, and misdirect the public’s trust. As COMELEC, within its function, is supposed to regulate such acts, it has again failed to put its power to exercise and

function. As a result, a contrast of disinformation has led the public into disarray and further division.

The Commission on Elections was also put in hot water after the supposedly final presidential and vicepresidential debates were pushed back and scaled down into panel interviews. COMELEC’s event partner, Impact Hub Manila, could not fully pay Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila in the amount of P14 million because of the alleged bouncing checks that were issued by the former.

Approaching the 2022 electrons, various security experts in the country have expressed concern over the transmission of the results via the vote counting machines over network security issues in aspects of encryption and server security. In addition, the machine themselves could malfunction and be used as an excuse to transmit results to servers from an unverified source. Come the election, about 2,000 vote-counting machines (VCM) malfunctioned in the country.

COMELEC described the voter turnout as overwhelming in its early hours, but the defective vote counting machines and their parts worsened the polling situation, causing long lines and waiting times for voters. To emphasize, malfunctioning SD cards in Matandang Balara, Quezon City put some voters on hold until two in the afternoon as contingency machines were still to come from Sta. Rosa, Laguna. On the other hand, voters from Novaliches, Quezon City, were advised to convert to manual voting due to corrupted SD cards.

The voting started at six in the morning and was supposed to end at seven in the evening, but several

clustered precincts waited for SD card and VCM replacements until the next day. Voters have camped out outside the polling places to ensure that they will be the ones to input their ballots into the machines, but some have opted to consent the board of election inspectors to do it for them. COMELEC pointed out that they will not use the same machines in the 2025 midterm elections.

Aside from the defective vote counting machines, voters were also keen on pointing out the receptacle for VCMgenerated receipts that were made of cardboard boxes. In the past elections, receptacles for the receipts were the old ballot boxes made of steel. Voters pointed out that the poll body was either saving its P26.7 billion budget or was less prepared to protect the secrecy and sacredness of peoples’ votes.

Concluding the physical and network aspects of the 2022 elections, political disparities have also caused the lives of people to be lost. Electionrelated violence isn’t new to the current Phillippine system as various groups still reign over a few of the ethnic groups of the archipelago. As such, the declaration of failure of elections in fourteen barangays in Lanao del Sur and leaving seven

people dead in Maguindanao amounted to election-related violence.

In Butig, from the province of Lanao del Sur, armed men snatched vote counting machines and ballots. A special election is set to be made in the province but with the Philippine National Police being the board of election of inspectors. In Maguindanao, aside from the seven dead individuals, twenty people were left wounded after a series of strafing and bombings. The poll body should have prepared enough for the security of the elections in these places and should have coordinated well with the government agencies to prevent such atrocities.

To walk and live with the newly appointed administration isn’t a choice that is to be made in comparison to the 2022 national elections. The poll that dictated the country’s fate for the next six years has to be lived by every Filipino citizen in the country, whatever political party, affiliation, or color he bears. However divided the Filipino people may be, it is a fact that the choice cast by the majority of the voting population is affected and will have an effect on everyone’s lives. To walk in the banner

of being united under the new regime is the reality that one must live until the next electoral poll.

As Filipinos are known for positivity amidst adversities, the next years will prove challenging as one may yet know the adversaries that are to come. In his duty, the newly appointed head of the state must lead the Filipino people to greater heights and offer relief to the country’s economy. Doubts may have been a thing of the past, but unless proven wrong by the current administration, the facts that are buried within disinformation and political and historical revisionism will always find their way to the minds of this country’s people.

The country may be on the path to unity, thanks or no thanks to the message put forward by the newly swornin administration, to be unified as one Filipino people with the same ideals of progress, a question, and a legacy that has yet to be fulfilled needs asking. What does it mean to be unified, and if this unity means moving forward or backward.

If the Filipino people, divided in our beliefs and now under Marcos Jr.’s leadership, should we also fall united, or have some already fallen first?

LAYLAYAN SA HIMPAPAWID

Maituturing bang pagunlad ang mga mumunting hakbang na hindi man lang lumalagpas sa tarangkahan?

Isang pagpukaw sa pagal na katawan at kumakayod na manggagawa ng Kanlurang Visayas ang inaprubahang taas pasahod (minimum wage) sa pribadong sektor at mga kasambahay na ipinresenta ng Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB)Region VI ng Department of Labor and Employment. Kasabay ng apela ng National Capital Region (NCR), ipinabrubahan ito ng National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) noong Mayo 17 at naging epektibo Hunyo 5. Sa gitna ng krisis na hinaharap ng bansa sa pandemya at pag-tala ng 6.1% inflation rate sa buwan ng Hunyo, ito ay mainam na hakbang para maibsan ang kumakalam na sikmura ng mga trabahenteng Pinoy.

Tatlong taong napuno ng agam-agam ang mga

manggagawa ng bansa na mabigyan ng halaga ang kanilang pag tarik sa araw at araw-araw na buhay sapagkat taong 2019 pa ang huling wage order. Kaya ngayong taong 2022, winakasan na ng RTWPB and naantalang karapatan ng mga empleyadong naghihingalo sa masukal na daan paitaas.

Sa pagpapatibay ng Wage Order No. RBVI- 26, ang P395 na sahod ng mga nagtatrabaho sa industriyal, komersyal, at hindi pang-agrikulturang gawa na may labis 10 manggagawa ay magiging P450 araw-araw habang P420 mula P310 naman ang bayad sa mga nagtatrabaho na may mas mababa sa 10 empleyado. Sa pangkalahatang sektor ng agrikultura, P410 ang pinakamababang sahod na kanilang matatanggap. Bilang isang agrikultural na bansa, isang kawalang bahala kung hindi mabibigyan ng sapat na aruga ang mga magsasakang masikhay sa pag hatid ng pagkain sa ating hapag.

Hindi rin nakakaligtaan ang mga kasambahay na may limandaang pisong taas pasahod mula P4000 na naging P4500 sa bisa ng Wage Order No. RB6DW-04. Kung mamalayin, maliit na halaga sa kanilang buwanang sahod ang nadagdag kaya hindi ko batid maisip kung bakit inaalmahan ang halagang kulang pa sa nagtataasang presyo ng bilihin.

Sa pagpapaliwanag ng Iloilo Business Club sa kanilang panayam sa Daily Guardian, inilarawan nila bilang ‘hindi napapanahon’ at ‘hindi makatwiran’ and ipinasang minimum wage ng NWPC. Idiniin nila na hindi pa nakakabangon ang mga negosyong pilit nagsara noong pandemya at mga unti-unting bumamabangon sa pagtala ng Alert level 1 sa Iloilo City. ‘Grave abuse of discretion’ ang kanilang ipinaratang sa RTWPB matapos isinawalang bahala ang mga inilatag nilang katotohan na sumasalamin sa naghihingalong negosyante.

Batay sa poverty threshold ng bansa, ang isang pamilya na may limang miyembro ay maaaring makabili ng mga pangunahing pangangailangan kung may buwanang sahod

EDITORIALANDOPINION

TUNAY NGANG APEKTADO NG PANDEMYA ANG MAGKABILANG SEKTOR NGUNIT PAANO MAKAKABANGON ANG MGA KOMERSYONG ESTABLISYEMENTO KUNG ANG MGA EMPLEYADONG BUMUBUO RITO AY GUMAGAPANG SA BUHANGIN NG MUMUNTING SALAPI?

na P8,022. Kapag kapantay o tumaas sa naturang halaga, maikokonsidera ang pamilya bilang hindi kabilang sa laylayan. Kung ating mamarapatin, ang nakalipas na sahod ng mga kasambahay ay 4000 piso lamang, halos 50% ng poverty threshold. Kung gayon, ito ay isa ng matibay na pagsuporta sa taas pasahod sapagkat mas magiging mababa ang antas ng pamumuhay kung kakaligtaan ang 500 pisong dagdag. Sa mga mangagagawa naman, may halos 100-900 pisong lamang sa poverty threshold, isang malaking hakbang na makakatulong ng lubos.

Nagdulot naman ng karagdagang bagahe sa mga pampublikong pasahero ang naitalang pagtaas na 28.84% na presyo ng langis at P2 na dagdag pamasahe sa buong bansa, karagdagang tanikala sa mga pilit nagtitipid sa kakarampot na pera. Tinambakan pa ito ng 37% na pagpailanglang ng presyo ng pangunahing bilihin

HE WHO MUST NOT BE NAMED RETURNS

Since the son and namesake of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos, Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., was declared as the 17th president of the Philippines on the 30th of June, mass-circulation dailies, journalists, and television stations are alarmed and threatened because of what the new Marcos administration will be like. Unfortunately, perhaps what happened in the past will most likely reoccur in today’s happenings. The great magnate is back with his landslide victory in the 2022 elections.

When the late ousted dictator imposed Martial Law on September 21, 1972, via Proclamation 1081, the first casualty was the country’s freedom of the press. The latter has always been known as an asset to an operative state of democracy. Hence, the late dictator knew the pivotal role of the media. He stripped them of all of his authority when he proclaimed martial law. He had complete control over who had access and what information they received—silenced dissent from the general populace and ensured he had every right to say his truths.

The country’s status quo does not like the press—stung by controversial media in the past few months, no wonder former President Rodrigo Duterte called some of the country’s largest media organizations foul and horrid names. Conceivably, Duterte said journalists have no shame. He added that they are corrupt fabulists and hypocrites who pretend to be the moral torch of the country. The country’s mass media sectors will be susceptible to danger since then.

With Rappler as one of the few Philippine media outlets critical of former President Duterte’s administration, authorities have ordered again to shut down the said investigative site, co-founded by

THE NEED TO PROTECT FREEDOM OF SPEECH AND FREEDOM OF THE MEDIA SHOULD NEVER BE DISPARAGED NOR UNDERSTATED BECAUSE THEY ARE PERVASIVE AND CONSIDERED POWERFUL CONDUITS FOR INFORMING THE GOVERNMENT ABOUT THE SOCIETAL NEEDS AND GRIEVANCES OF THE PEOPLE.

the Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Maria Reesa. However, Rappler counterarguments the reports claiming they would never shut down, challenging the court’s order. “We will follow the legal process and continue to stand up for our rights. We will hold the line,” stated Reesa on a BBC live news report. Furthermore, in this state, journalists around the country will frequently experience this gnawing sense of disdain as they are cautious about the context of their writing. If and only without prior censorship or reprisal, the freedom of the press is still alive and functional.

However, this does not equate that press freedom is not under siege due to repressive policies by the new administration of the Philippines—the MarcosDuterte administration.

The availment of other essential freedoms depends on the full provision of free speech and the release of the press.

Therefore these two freedoms take precedence in the hierarchy of constitutional rights. Section 4 of Article III of the Bill of Rights guarantees the protection of the liberty of expression and the press, which states: “No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, or of the press or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

This guarantee extends to the prescription of all executive actions derogating these rights.

Every democratic government recognizes freedom of expression as a fundamental value, and it has been accorded as a preferred right that takes

precedence over substantive economic freedom and other liberties. “It is established that freedom of the press is crucial and so inextricably woven into the right to free speech and free expression, that any attempt to restrict it must be met with an examination so critical that only a danger that is clear and present would be allowed to curtail it,” in this jurisdiction, the Supreme Court emphasized the supremacy of free speech and a free press in a democratic government in Chavez v. Gonzalez. Through these guarantees, the people are kept abreast of government affairs. No independent press would thrive without these privileges—the government’s errors, abuses, and wrongdoings would remain guarded and untold to the public, so how will these people know what ulterior motives are behind the limelight ever since there is no sense of transparency and full disclosure? Indeed, those who have awoken by the truth will never be blinded by mischievous lies.

During Duterte’s term, Jesus Malabanan, a reporter who covered Duterte’s war on drugs in 2018, was casually watching TV in his home in Calbayog when assailants on a motorcycle shot him in the head. Malabanan’s killing comes as journalists in the Philippines face further harassment for simply doing their jobs. Alfonso Cusi, the secretary of the Department of Energy, and Dennis Uy, a supporter of Duterte’s campaign, filed a libel and cyber libel lawsuits against twenty-one journalists and seven media outlets on November 29, 2021,

for their alleged involvement in a corrupt deal. Cusi claimed that the reports hurt his reputation— media organizations and journalists criticized the case as violating journalistic freedom.

In the words of Ressa, “We have been harassed, this is intimidation, these are political tactics, and we refuse to succumb to them.” About issues happening around the country, Rappler has also published numerous accounts on Duterte’s deadly war on drugs, as well as taking a critical look at issues of misogyny, human rights violations, and corruption. Several journalists in the Philippines have been imprisoned for libel and cyber libel in recent years, and joujournalistsloggers and social media users have been detained and imprisoned because of it, leaving a blot on the country’s record on press freedom.

Amidst the backdrop of violence and intimidation of journalists in the Philippines, Nobel Peace Prize laureates Ressa from the Philippines and Dmitry Muratov from Russia serves as a mute reminder of hope for journalists around the world.

The Philippine government should recognize that critical reporting is a necessary aspect of a rights-respecting democracy and should never be considered a threat. Freedom of speech and the press should allow and encourage the articulation of the unorthodox view, though it is hostile to or derided by others; such viethoughtnduces a condition of unrest creates dissatisfaction with conditions as they are, or even stirs people to anger. This is what the media and the journalists will continue to face from then on. The past never died. It became a perpetual disorder; the people living in it believed the new administration would be the salvation, which is why the country has been in deep crisis ever since.

kagaya ng delata at tinapay na lubos na nagpasikip ng badyet ng bawat pamilyang Pilipino. Samakatuwid, tumaas na ang demand ng sosyedad, domoble na ang antas ng ekonomiya sa paglipas ng tatlong taon, ngunit nakakalungkot isipin na napag-iiwanan pa rin ang sahod ng mga manggagawang anak dalita. Ililista na lang ba sa tubig ang mandato ng Sekyon 3 Artikulo 11 ng konstitusyon na naglalayong magbigay seguridad at sapat na ‘living wage’ sa bawat Pilipino?

Sa pag-igting ng pamantayang ito sa anim na probinsya ng kanluran, nawakasan ang usad pagong

industriyang mailap sa tanghal. Kung ating pagninilayan, ang mga empleyadong ito ay konsumerismo rin kaya kung hindi bibigyang diin ang kanilang hikbi at hinaing, tuluyan ng mawawakasan ang siklob ng ekonomiya. Habang papalayong binababagtas ng mga manggagawa ang masukal na daan, nababawasan na ang diin sa linya ng kahirapan. Ang unti-unting pagangat ng mga nasa laylayan ay hindi tuluyang nagpapabatid ng katiwasayan sapagkat sa kanilang pagtapak sa itaas, kanila pa ring tinitingala ang mga nasa tuktok ng himpapawid.

Based on the three fundamental pillars implemented by R.A. 7157 of the Constitution, the construction of Philippine Foreign Policy embraces international and local entities that function as a guide on how the country would conduct its foreign relations with other nations. In the last six years of the Duterte administration, the country’s foreign policy has drastically shifted its course and intention towards mounting a much friendlier relationship with communist countries, particularly China and Russia while depriving its associations with the traditional partners. That action has caused a repercussion, especially with the ruled arbitration on the West Philippine Sea, and generally the South China Sea dispute. With Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos seen as the closest candidate during the campaign season that flexibly bolsters up the socalled “Beijing-friendly foreign relations” and who also happens to be a controversial candidate, the query now goes off “how the Philippines would play along the international arena?”

After being inaugurated as the country’s chief executive, Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will automatically become the nation’s lead architect in crafting foreign policies. Centering his platform on “unity,” PBBM is set to meet more complicated challenges – especially with one of the most critical issues in the country which is the disputes on the West Philippine Sea. Right after almost a month of acquiring the office, President Marcos presented his stance on the country’s foreign policy under his administration during his first State of the Nation Address (SONA). He by then emphasized the notion of “friend to all and

an enemy to none.”

Pursuant to its friendly approach, he also highlighted the protection of the country’s sovereignty. Obtained from the Philippine News Agency, the president stated that: “(The country will) not preside over any process that will abandon even a square inch of the territory of the Republic of the Philippines to any foreign power.” Yet ironically, in spite of PBBM’s efforts to project and to pursue an independent foreign policy while at the same time protecting the country’s territorial sovereignty, he has also expressed a friendlier attitude towards China in one of his meetings with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Given that the mentioned communist country has been moving more assertively in the area of dispute, the West Philippine Sea, one can sense a feeling of confusion and a blanket of concern overcome as to what may be the president’s next move, as well as to how uncertain it would be regarding the Philippines’ future.

The president only recited. He did not give us a more concrete and clearer plan. So, how long do we endure? Seeing how Marcos Jr. has displayed its difference with Duterte’s approach by having weakened some pacts with the former Soviet Union and welcomed more of the US, leaves us wondering what strategy this administration would like to pursue. More so, there are reports that Marcos Jr. is adopting his late father’s foreign policy approach. That is to cleverly pull a stunt making the two running superpowers of today go against themselves for the benefit of their strategic advantages. But, where do the gains of the Filipino people come upon? Maybe it is too early to conclude yet. As long as the national interest of the country is being upheld, we will always feel secured, confident, and at peace. Therefore, we must brace ourselves. The game has just begun.

PARADOX PAULINE MARIE C. ARADA

SLYTHERJIN

More Pink than Red

BY DIORIZZE D. PERANIA AND SHERGEN Q. VILLANUEVA

A new administration has dawned as Ferdinand “BongBong” Marcos Jr. becomes elected for the highest position in the land. After the fastest canvassing of votes in the history of Philippine elections, Marcos gained more than 31 million votes. This is out of the 55.5 million Filipinos who practiced their sovereign right to democracy, which is around 82.6% of the 67.4 million registered voters. After a series of speculations and manual counting of electoral votes, Marcos officially took office as the 17th President of the Republic of the Philippines after he was inaugurated on June 30, 2022, at the National Museum of Fine Arts.

The 2022 elections have earned various firsts and records in the chronicles of Philippine history. The electoral votes for Marcos and the data of the voter turnout have been recordbreaking with their overwhelming numbers. Most importantly, the political support has been different on many levels.

PERSONA OVER PLATFORMS

The lineup for this election amplified more on the persona and fame of the candidates than their advocacies, with Manny Pacquiao as an international boxing legend, Francisco “Isko” Moreno Domagoso as a former movie actor, and Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as the son of and namesake of the former dictator of the country unlike Leni Robredo and Panfilo “Ping” Lacson who were known for their government experiences.

@littlemstransparent

Moreover, candidates used colors as branding to appeal to more voters, with pink representing Robredo, red for Marcos, and blue for Isko.

“Through this embodied and relational practice in Philippine elections, color is a way of identifying affiliations, alliances and also antagonisms,” said Oscar T. Serquina, Jr., assistant professor at the University of the Philippines Diliman, in an article by DW, a Germany-based international news outlet.

Nevertheless, despite the fame and colors, the candidates also laid down their platforms.

Marcos vowed unity, vaccine rollouts, and employment opportunities. Robredo centered on good governance. Livelihood programs had been the priority for Isko, while Pacquiao and Lacson promised to wipe out

We students are endlessly asking for the breakdown of the miscellaneous and laboratory fees but until now, wala gihapon. Mga when ayhan?

@forthewait

Ang online request of documents sa Registrar took few months before ko nila gin replyan. I understand the queries pero sometimes delay na guid. Kaisa pag abot sang document, past due na sa imo transaction.

@noticeusplease

We do appreciate the efforts you are putting to maintain an optimal environment for the students, yet I strongly believe that their voices should be heard in a way that you’ll take necessary actions for their sake. I also hope that the communication between departments, heads, faculty & staff should also be improved to

corruption.

FORCES BEHIND POLITICS

Politics in the Philippines has been influenced by factors that are detrimental to the moral and legal sovereignty of democracy that no longer surprise the Filipino people.

Philippine politics has been dominated by clans and dynasties.

In an article in The San Diego Union-Tribune, Ana Maria Tabunda, Research Director of Pulse Asia, stated that the past surveys of their organization have provided that most Filipinos are more concerned with the benefits and patronage they can receive than the issue of dynasties.

Moreover, religious sects and denominations have also been significantly involved in campaigns by endorsing candidates of their preference. The politics of religion started in the Spanish colonial times and became more prominent during the late dictator Marcos era.

Regarding their practice of bloc voting, an Iglesia ni Cristo member told the publication, “We followed the belief taught inside the INC of voting as one. We fully believe that the head of the INC is guided by the Holy Spirit to whoever candidate he may choose.” The member stated that the heads of the estimated three

million INC are also considering the candidate’s past and platforms.

90-DAY CAMPAIGN RACE

For this election, political support had averted from the conventional ways of campaigning. In the camp of Robredo, multitudes of volunteer groups had been established even before she announced her candidacy. Members of these organizations had set up community pantries and outreach programs inspired by their candidates. Moreover, they made headlines with the initiative of house-to-house campaigning.

“I showed my support in being an active youth volunteer, a supporter, by helping others, showing support in her campaign by giving out free food, sharing her platforms online and offline. I even attended all meet-ups and conferences and was given the chance to meet the candidate in person,” shared Alexandrea Cambaya, member of the Media Team of Youth For Leni - Iloilo Chapter, in an interview with The Augustinian.

Moreover, they made headlines with the initiative of house-to-house campaigning.

Nevertheless, the largest extent of how the Kakampinks (wordplay on kakampi or ally, and pink) demonstrated their support

avoid confusions, delays, and uncertainties in terms of information and updates.

@tamanagastopls

My main concern gd is about sa gastos. Tani bala i allow man sang school ang mga students to find their own way para mag reproduce sang mga requirements sa school. Kay so far sa akon experience, may mga requirements ang subjects/school nga sa school alone mabakal, which in fact if they would allow the students, may cheaper way gd nga makuha nila ang amo to nga requirement. Also, ang schedule sang mga students subong. I know bag o palang ni ang blended learning and ga adjust palang ang tanan, i think grabe ang burden sa students kay may schedule nga straight 8am -8pm gd. Even though, understanding man ang iban nga teachers, I hope maubrahan better way for a healthy and more productive learning.

for Robredo is through their grand rallies by overnight stays in their headquarters until the events reached international applause and attention.

The joint campaign effort of Bongbong Marcos and Inday Sarah Duterte however, inspired more support with voter preference margin of 64 percent, 56 percent, 54 percent, and 51 percent, respectively, in the final preelection polls conducted by the polling firms Laylo Research, Pulse Asia, Social Weather Stations, Octa Research, PUBLiCUS Asia, and Tangere. Analysts remarked that Marcos and Duterte’s opposition to negative campaigning contributed to their popularity with Filipino voters.

“I was able to stand on my ground though being surrounded by circles who are all Leni supporters. Showcasing all BBM’s credentials, potentials, and platforms and being able to speak up in his favor,” John Prudencio Villareal, the university’s deputy executive secretary, told the publication.

Villareal’s choice of the candidate was questioned, but he never wavered because he believed that the 31 million voters of Marcos wanted an uplifting country, not a country that is being plated with roses of pretentious acts and lies.

Meanwhile, the political support for the candidates aside from Marcos and Robredo has been inferior to the interest of the media as the leading aspirants in the surveys were deemed more relevant.

“Media was more intrigued and focused on the Leni-BBM rivalry as the Aquino-Marcos conflict was reborn than focusing on the candidates that are behind in the surveys,” Kevin Rey Deanon, the Provincial Chairperson of Isko Tayo Kabataan of Iloilo, said in an interview with The Augustinian. Isko’s large-scale and expensive plans and projects as Mayor of Manila showed promise for Deanon, but Isko ultimately fell short in the eyes of the public.

SOCIAL MEDIA SPITFIRE

Kakampinks and Uniteam supporters continue to engage in political sparring by insinuating that the opposing team’s adherence to its candidates amounts to a cult. Cultus, the word for “cult” in Latin, is what modern English speakers refer to as “culture.” In the media, the word is used to denote a small group that is contentious due to their peculiar beliefs.

“Political support adheres to its guiding principles while the political cult is the adoration of a single person. A political cult is an excessive and inappropriate devotion to a specific party or candidate,” said Atty. Celso Lacson Jr. in an interview with The Augustinian. Lacson emphasized that people should be more devoted to their ideals and values than to any particular candidate.

@CallMemastahh

During this 2022 election, candidates attempted to capitalize on the movements of their ardent supporters by using social media: Marcos with his alleged multiple troll farms and Robredo with her alleged yellow-turned-pink cult that purges voters.

In an interview with CNN Philippines on April 27, Marcos denied knowing about any troll farms operating under him that were using social media to propagate misinformation. There were several polished videos documenting the Marcoses’ splendor and international acclaim on Tiktok and YouTube.

Videos went viral claiming that Nostradamus’ published book “Les Prophéties” from 1555 predicted that a boy would bring glory to the Philippines. According to BBM’s followers, all of the descriptions applied to BBM. Robredo, on the other hand, captured the attention of Twitter users. According to a #FactsFirst study that looked at 128 election-related subjects in the Philippines from the top 10 popular hashtags in the nation, Leni Robredo was mentioned favorably in the majority of tweets. The negligible portion of Kakampinks lambasting Robredo’s rivals was said to be to her detriment because of her supporters ramming their narratives to every people’s throats.

CONVERSATION, NOT MONOLOGUE

The rise of cults created political division that hindered the nation’s ability to hold meaningful discussions and create thoroughly thought-out laws and policies for everyone. People will write anything to support their partisanship, sometimes even resulting in the death of someone or severe interpersonal damage.

According to Luis Miguel Tirador, outgoing president of Sigma Alpha Lex (SAL) of the University of San Agustin College of Law, “This cult-like or cult behavior is formidable as it is a result of a failed system.”

Tirador explained to The Augustinian that people probably lived their entire lives adhering to the rules but never received the promised benefits or justice for their suffering, that is why their disdain for the system increases with each negative outcome they experience. People have little faith in the system as a whole and are more loyal to those in power who make promises to carry out their vision of a rejuvenated society.

The solution wouldn’t come from fooling about, but from a comprehensive strategy that took their suffering into account.

For politics’ machinery to work, for people to understand one another, and for progress to be made, it is necessary to comprehend the crucial component of compromise. These are the things that people who are politically polarized either refuse to understand or fail to grasp.

The current sched is quite taxing not just for the student but also to the teachers.Mas better pa yung last sched na by cycle ang Lec at Lab atleast medjo magaan yung mga gawain and mas maka focus yung mga students. Sana ma notice nyo na a lot of MLS students are shifting to another course or school and some even withdrawn because of this toxic schedule. You expect us to perform well and give you excellent grades? How can we, when we don’t even have enough ample rest. How can we work and study efficiently if our body and mind are overworked. If you want to have exceptional students in your school then give us what we need, not

PATAFA endorses Obiena in major tilts as rift ends

BY SYRELL DOANNE V. NIETES

AFTER MONTHS of back-and-forth, Filipino pole vaulter superstar EJ Obiena and the Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) finally reached a mutual settlement to end their rift.

Olympic pole vaulter Ernest John Obiena and the Philippine Athletic Track and Field Association (PATAFA) finally settled their dispute for five-long months on Wednesday, March 30.

It was after Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) Chairperson William Ramirez reconciled the two parties through a mediation process.

“It is with much joy that we announce that both parties have agreed to a settlement and the proceedings ended successfully,” the PSC said.

The settlement paved the way for the National Athletics Federation to agree to endorse Obiena to play in two major competitions: the 31st Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) and the 2022 World Athletics Championships, which will be held in May in Hanoi, Vietnam, and in Oregon, USA, respectively.

“We agreed to endorse Mr. Obiena to the 2022 Southeast Asian Games and the 2022 World Outdoor Athletics; endorsement for the participation of Mr. Obiena in other competitions will be subject to the usual rules and regulations of the Patafa, as observed for the participation of all national athletes,” said PATAFA.

after the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) General Assembly deferred formalizing the suspension of the PATAFA, a decision reached after positive developments from the mediation table.

sportsmanship and because of the Lenten season, I deferred the move to suspend the PATAFA as decided by the POC Executive Board,’’ said POC President Rep. Abraham “Bambol’’ Tolentino.

body also said Obiena apologized to PATAFA after their mediation proceeding, which lasted for five sessions.

his apologies to PATAFA, its board members, (PATAFA president) Mr. (Philip Juico, and his teammates, and both have assured each other of forgiveness, to start anew and move on,” stated PSC.

between Obiena and PATAFA started after the national athletics body accused the Olympic pole vaulter of embezzling training funds and falsifying liquidation reports, specifically those relating to the fees of his Ukrainian mentor, Vitaly Petrov.

UAAP 84 returns after Covid hiatus

BY ATHENA CHRISTY L. SOLEDAD

(UAAP) Season 84 rekindles sportsmanship with its opening ceremony on March 26 at the Mall of Asia Arena, streamed online by Smart.

Accentuating the theme, “Fully, Alive, Champions for Life,” De La Salle University hosts this season with 9 events, including men’s basketball, men’s and women’s 3x3 basketball, women’s volleyball, men’s beach volleyball, cheer dance, co-ed poomsae, and men and women’s chess tournaments, opting for online streaming to limit physical onlookers in strict compliance with health protocols.

“The idea of the season is trying to get it back to the new normal [...] Try to see what we can bring back for Season 84 and hopefully bring back the grind by Season 85,” expressed UAAP Season 84 President Emmanuel Calanog.

The men’s basketball tournament began on the same day and was played three times a week (Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays) in a quadruple-header format, eventually culminating with the UP Fighting Maroons emerging as the season’s reigning basketball team.

“When you go up a level and you see the challenge ahead, you feel very blessed to work with such wonderful teammates, management, and university,” said UP Fighting Maroons Coach Goldwyn Monteverde after their best-of-three championship

round victory over the Ateneo Blue Eagles, which marked their first UAAP gold medal in 36 years.

Meanwhile, women’s volleyball games kicked off on May 5, closely following a closedcircuit format in accordance with COVID-19 protocols, with games played every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

“The fact that there have been no infections during the tournament is testament to the fact that the guidelines have been made in accordance with the stakeholders,” voiced CHED Chairman Popoy de Vera upon ensuring the universities’ compliance to health protocols

during the sports events.

Moreover, the UAAP Cheerdance Competition was held on May 22, with the Far Eastern University Cheering Squad emerging victorious after a 13year championship drought.

“We did our best from the situation because it’s the rules. It’s either we fight or we frown. We fought, we chose to fight,” said Far Eastern University Cheering Squad Coach Randell San Gregorio.

On the contrary, due to a limited number of spectators permitted in the stands during games, Smart Communications Inc. supports the return of the country’s

“This is part of our commitment to give our customers what they want and continue to enable them to pursue their passions,” shared Alfredo S. Panlilio, president and CEO of Smart Communications and PLDT Inc.

Previously, the COVID-19 pandemic interrupted the UAAP Season 82 in 2020 and eventually led to the cancellation of Season 83 initially planned for 2021.

BREAKING THE STIGMA

FOR NEARLY A DECADE, Seventh-timer Olympic Gymnast Simone Biles seemed not only unbeatable but unshakeable. She would reel off the most difficult gymnastics maneuvers with a daredevil’s spirit and an artist’s passion, her smile brighter than the 25 world championship medals she won and the five she won while dominating the 2016 Rio Olympics. She was dubbed the GOAT — greatest of all time — and she embraced the title with good humor, donning leotards adorned with a glittery goat—until July 2021-when she withdrew from the Olympic all-around gymnastics competition to focus on her mental health.

Behind the perky hair ribbons and spangles was a young woman bruised by life. She took the critical step of seeking help for the anxiety and doubts that had recently eroded her confidence on the gym floor for a long time ago. When her nerves resurfaced in public again in Tokyo, a terrifying and potentially debilitating state of disorientation known among gymnasts as “the twisties” happened midair. The incident was enough to make her call off her stint.

Data from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) shows that up to 35 percent of elite athletes suffer from a mental health crisis which may manifest in different forms. Depression and anxiety, in particular, have a stigma that makes people unwilling to talk about their issues. Prevalence of mental health to athletes is high-unfortunately, the world of competitive sports espouses the belief that athletes should be mentally tough, fueling the stigma of seeking psychological support.

For Filipino athletes, this stigma is compounded by poorly resourced mental health care, where only 3–5% of the country’s total health expenditure is appropriated towards mental health, resulting in high out-of-pocket costs. Additionally, there is a shortage of mental health professionals and facilities in the country, with only 0•52 psychiatrists, 0•07 psychologists, 4•95 psychiatric hospital beds, and 0•02 community-based mental health facilities per 100 000 people, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

There was this time when Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott opened up about his mental health in the North Texas region after his brother committed suicide. With all of the expectations that come with being a National Football League star, Prescott’s decision to open up about his mental health following the tragedy sparked both positive and negative reactions. Skip Bayless, a FOX Sports analyst, criticized Prescott for being a weak leader, saying he did not “have sympathy for him going public with ‘I got depressed.’” Scrutiny like Bayless’ adds to an already stigmatized topic. Furthermore, in the Philippines, First Filipino Olympic Gold Medallist Hidilyn Diaz admitted on heeding a psychologist’s help in keeping her sane throughout her journey to gold. She had gone through her share of mental anguish, particularly grappling with anxiety and fear, including when she was implicated by Malacañang in a later-debunked destabilization plot back in 2019.

What these accusations failed to account for was that no matter an individual’s level, no one is immune from feeling immense mental strain.

As the societal stigma of mental health has begun to wear off, athletes’ ever-present mental struggles have made their way to the forefront of sports. When you put elite athletes- people who are supposed to be big, strong, and indestructible in the eyes of fans, under the microscope, the stigma is magnified even greater. However, even though Olympic athletes are adorned with medals and celebrated in the public eye, that does not mean they are incapable of breaking.

Highlighting mental wellness as a major contributor to athletic performance, not only aiming to reduce psychiatric symptoms, might help circumvent athletes’ reluctance to seek professional help. A comprehensive and integrative framework that is founded on holistic, personal wellbeing, along with a proactive approach to mental health, must be pursued. Positive psychosocial development should be encouraged by teaching athletes adaptive coping mechanisms, self-management skills, psychological flexibility, and selfcompassion for inevitable high-stress situations.

Additionally, efforts must be made to overcome barriers to accessing mental health care in the Philippines. Increased government funding for mental health is key to reducing outof-pocket costs. It is likewise crucial to train more mental health professionals and develop more mental health facilities across the country.

Pressures can take a toll on athletes at all levels of competition. The sports community collectively needs to reassure athletes that their mental health is more important than their desire to please those around them. Then perhaps, there would be fewer athletes who sink into pits of their own depression if all athletes were taught that mental health conditions were not signs of weakness but rather serious injuries with a path to healing. Mental health, especially on athletes, is a concern to be treated equally as with that of physical health. Depression and anxiety may not be evident when diagnosed in X-ray or MRI, but they can be every bit as limiting or debilitating as a physical injury could mutilate.

UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION OF THE PHILIPPINES

premier collegiate sports league by bringing the court to the fans via the GigaPlay app, despite the strict health protocols imposed on the venues.

AIM OF TRIUMPH. UAAP S84 is back after a two-year hiatus and tips off with men’s basketball, March 26.

SCREAM OF JOY. Obiena to return from hiatus as suspension has been lifted.

FILE PHOTO • BENOIT TESSIER, REUTERS

SPORTS the Augustinian

TRACK QUEEN LYDIA DE VEGA RUNS ‘TOUGHEST RACE OF HER LIFE’

Unity and kindness for our very own

BY OSCAR MARI G. FAJARDO

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS WITH GREAT THINGS

Known as ‘Diay’ to her peers and fans, de Vega was first discovered in the Palarong Pambansa in the 70’s, recruited by the Far Eastern University Tamaraws varsity track team before becoming part of the Gintong Alay track and field program and was Coached by her father Francisco or ‘Tatang’, their father-daughter efforts paid off when she captured the 1981 Southeast Asian Games gold in the 200-meter and 400-meter run at the tender age of 16. It

was not long before she made herself a remarkable track record and was reborn with the title ‘Asia’s fastest woman.’

Among other things, De Vega fought for the rights of athletes in different capacities during her athletic years. In 2005, De Vega spent her retirement years in Singapore where she coached the younger generation athletes.

Everything was going smoothly for De Vega as she was living her best life with her family until she succumbed to breast cancer in 2018.

WHERE TOUGHEST RACE BEGINS

“She was diagnosed with this [breast cancer] in 2018, and has been silently fighting the disease for the past four years… as the disease is progressing, her condition is quickly worsening despite undergoing many procedures including brain surgery,” revealed De Vega’s daughter, Stephanie, in a social media post last July 20.

Stephanie’s post touched the hearts of her mother’s fans, and awaken the spirit of bayanihan, which resulted in continuous financial support from different sectors, one of which is Sports patron and Chooks-to-Go president Ronald Mascariñas who pledged Php250,000 to the De Vega-Mercado family upon learning of the athlete’s situation.

“Madame Lydia is a living legend in Philippine sports, a

true queen,” said Mascariñas. “During her heyday, she was someone we looked up to as she broke barriers for the Filipina athlete.” Mascariñas gave the check to De Vega-Mercado’s daughter, Stephanie, and sonin-law, David.

THE FINISH LINE

Her worsening condition did not hinder de Vega to continue to inspire more Filipino athletes when she made her last public appearance as one the flag bearers during the opening ceremony of the 2019 SEA Games at the New Clark City. Though, it was not long before she had gone gently into the night as Lydia De Vega, once Asia’s sprint queen, died of cancer at age 57.

On the 12th of August, De Vega-Mercado’s daughter Stephanie Mercado de Koenigswarter confirmed the heart- passing of her mother on her social media account. “On behalf of our family, it is with absolute grief that I announce the death of my mother, Lydia de Vega this evening, Aug. 10, 2022, at the Makati Medical Center,” Koenigswarter posted on Facebook. “She fought the very good fight and is now at peace.”

Filipinos woke to the sad news which triggered an outpouring of tributes from fans, sports personalities, fellow athletes, family, friends, and colleagues. Truly, the Philippines sports has lost a legend.

Passi City itinaguyod ang kauna-unahang boxing tourno

BY ATHENA CHRISTY L. SOLEDAD

Ilan sa mga inimbitahang boxing icons ay sina 1996 Atlanta Olympics Silver Medalist Onyok Velasco, 1992 Barcelona Olympics Bronze Medalist Roel Velasco, at International Boxing Federation Light Flyweight at Flyweight World Champion Dodie Boy Peñalosa, Sr.

“Nagtipon tayo upang maipakita na maaari naming tulungan ang mga kabataan na maiwasan ang hindi malusog na mga gawi at bisyo sa pamamagitan ng sports. Nakabuo tayo ng panibagong pagkakaibigan sa pamamagitan ng sports,” pahayag ni Mayor Stephen A. Palmares, alkalde ng Passi City.

Ibinahagi naman ni Krystal Kim Britanico, ina ni Juzkym na isa sa mga atletang lumahok sa boxing tournament, na ang boxing tournament na iyon ay isang magandang karanasan para sa anak niya na may mga malaking pangarap sa boxing.

“Ang mga atleta ng Cage Gym, kung saan nagsasanay ang aking anak sa ilalim ng Iloilo Sports Academy, sa pamamagitan

ng aktibong suporta ni Mayor Jerry Trenas at ng coaching ni Sir Johnny Estrella, ay naimbitahan sa paligsahan. Nabigyan ng boxing tournament ng pagkakataon ang lahat ng boxing enthusiasts sa Region VI,” ibinahagi ni Britanico.

Naiuwi ng isang boksingero na nagngangalang Alfred Blue Deslate ang tagumpay bilang kampeon ng nasabing boxing tournament kung saan itinuring ni Britanico bilang isang matagumpay na pagsasanay sa mga bata.

“Talagang nag-enjoy ang anak ko sa tournament (ikatlong boxing tournament na niya ‘yon), at bilang pamilya niya nag-enjoy din kami dahil nabigyan namin siya ng suporta sa kanya. Naging motivated at disiplinadong bata siya dahil sa boxing,” dagdag ni Britanico.

Matapos ang nasabing tournament, mas pinaigting ng lungsod ang programa sa isports sa ginanap na basketball exhibition game sa pagitan ng UAAP S84

A RUNNER AND A WARRIOR. Former Athlete Lydia de Vega on her toughest battle to date: fighting cancer.

A PIONEER, and one of the most bemedaled Filipino athlete, Lydia de Vega brought great honor and prestige to the Philippines with all her accomplishments bagging 15 golds, 6 silvers, and 3 bronzes for a total of 24 medals in international competitions namely the Southeast Asian Games and the Asian Athletics Championships, and even represented the country twice in the Olympics.

FILE PHOTO • GETTY IMAGES

Champion UP Fighting Maroons at Iloilo Elite Club na libreng pinanood ng mga mamamayan.

ISINAGAWA ng Passi City ang kauna-unahang Mayor Stephen A. Palmares Invitational Boxing Tournament sa Passi City Arena noong Hulyo 29, 2022, kung saan alas-tres ng hapon nagsimula ang boxing clinic at alas-kwatro naman ginanap ang tournament proper.

FEATURES FOLD

KATAWHAYAN: A PIECE OF PEACE

Sky high ambition, down-to-earth beginnings

BY EUGENIE A. BALURAN

It has been two years since the peak of the pandemic and the rising trend of preference for more eco-friendly and sustainable brands among Filipinos have skyrocketed. Surveys conducted by Kantar in their Who Cares, Who Does 2020 report reveals that a whooping 75% of Filipino consumers are taking steps towards becoming more responsible shoppers. With 90 percent of shoppers claiming to lean more towards locally-made items, as these products are healthier and support the local economy, it creates opportunities to meld culture with crafts.Culture is not a devolving practice, it is a continuous stream that trickles down to generations after, and it’s been proven by one particular brand.

BEGINNINGS OF KATAWHAYAN

In April 2021, the storm that is Katawhayan, a fashion brand created by Giah De los Reyes had made its way into the crafting industry, specializing in locally sourced handmade crafts. From upcycled jute & katsa sling bags to necklaces made from wooden beadwork which can double as a mask sling, Katawhayan’s versatility in their products is boundless. However, the brand’s soul rests upon its iconic tiedyed fabrics. Its earthly hues sprung forth from plant sources

like sappanwood, bayabas leaves, annatto seeds, and even onion skins. Each imprint upon the products that includes these fabrics are one of a kind, no two prints ever being the same.

“I wanted to do something that gives off a peaceful vibes within me and my environment - thus the name Katawhayan in itself. The term’s vernacular nature also correlates with my idea of learning more from our grassroots and how we can connect with nature and community in our daily lives,” De los Reyes shared in an interview with The Augustinian.

THE CULTURE IT BEARS

De los Reyes narrated that her pieces and products rely on the idea of telling a story and its value is derived from the principle of “the hands that make,” encouraging appreciation for the little things the earth can give. The core theme of the brand stems from the idea that everyone can contribute to something bigger and kinder to the world and Katawhayan became a medium for giving back. The brand’s products reflect the story of its creation from the sun, wind, and water that grew the sources for her natural dyes all the way to the skilled hands of weavers and tailors.

“We are all culture bearers of our own identity, but we

need those people to preserve the culture that we have, the local culture that we have,” Meryl Panuncio, a teacher and strong advocate for local arts commented on the success of the brand.

Brands such as Katawhayan debunk the idea of a generation gap between the old and new in the modern world, encouraging creativity and sustainability while keeping the practice of traditional arts alive.

“She bridges a lot of generations. She’s in the middle of different ages and bridges the gap between those ages. She teaches the young and connects the gaps between the younger and older generations, so she helps a lot of mananahi (seamstresses) and young people to appreciate the natural

dye, the process of visual arts in the context of local culture. Kumbaga, nagiging preserver siya of local culture as well,” Panuncio further added to her sentiments.

A CONSUMER PERSPECTIVE

Product reviews of the brand continue to stay strong, especially among consumers from younger generations. The uniqueness of each piece, especially that of the naturallydyed bandanas, adds flair to the already blooming message the brand wishes to spread to its clients.

“Her brand exudes a sense of uniqueness where any consumer could actually pick something and feel that there are personal touches to it, and it gives space for the consumer to truly personalize and make that piece yours because no piece is the same,” Raiza Orevillo added, with regard to the artisan touches one can see in the products.

PARTING SENTIMENT

Entrepreneurship is not always easy, glamorous, or

fulfilling, as there is a challenge between personal goals and needs of the consumers. But De los Reyes stands strong with her brand’s core theme and message. To return to the grassroots and bring peace to those around you.

“We should be learning how to be more mindful of our actions as to how we impact our surroundings. By learning these things, we tend to be less

egoistic and more nurturing, extending gratitude, and spreading nothing but good vibes into this world,” De los Reyes concluded.

The bustling city of Iloilo continues to be home to many in its fast-paced lifestyle, bright jeepneys, and lines of street food. To indulge and bring along a little piece of peace in this concrete jungle isn’t bad at all.

SEVERAL SOMETIMES

Pre-pandemic, one may recall the memories of walking around the heart of the city, of hearing its roaring heartbeat from jeepney engines and enthusiastic vendors. Images of bright rugs and patterned dusters, bottled gayumas and bead bracelets, unbranded phone cases, and sizzling street food remain vivid. Cultural colors that paint the diligent, superstitious, and resilient lives of Filipinos. In the sunkissed afternoon’s rays on concrete, the local souvenir portion of the Iloilo central market lies in its sea of baskets, shell trinkets, and woven hats.

Jeff shares his story of how he began with only a pen that was nearly out of ink, into writing his final article for the publication.

FORUM

IN UNITY THROUGH COMPROMISE

BY THE PROGRAM MANAGEMENT TEAM

The strong tandem of Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Sara Zimmerman Duterte in the 2022 election paved the way for them to win the two highest elective positions in the land - the presidency and the vice presidency. Throughout the election period, as their camp claims, the duo evaded public debates in exchange for directly communicating their message to the public. More so, it has drawn support and criticism from their side of supporters and from the supporters of other candidates. Marcos and Duterte platform stands firm in the message of unity - a vague but seemingly appealable to more or less 31 million who voted for them.

Debates and arguments sprung out on social media platforms among supporters of candidates. In a heavily polarized political environment - unlike the supporters of Marcos and Duterte - the motherhood statement ‘unity’ is not as convincing for the losing minority. Attacks on social media by known and anonymous users targeted the then other candidates.

Former Vice President

Leni Robredo mentioned in a presidential debate that two companies who studied disinformation has discovered that she has been the top targeted personality and that Mr. Marcos was the top beneficiary. Before the election, President Marcos denied any claims that he is using a troll farm for his campaign.

The election, as it always has been, divided the society evenly. Winners

celebrated victory and losers grieved their defeats. The call of the winning team for unity did not resonate promptly to the losing side. But nonetheless, the only path is to move forward as democracy meant it to be. It is not a one-man’s job to mend the cracks and heal the wounds that the election caused but rather it is every citizen’s job to support and criticize the government they formed. In the pursuit of building a better society that brings prosperity, equity, and welcomes a brighter future for our countrymen, oneness as Filipinos is not just a virtue but rather, a duty.

The Augustinian asked members of the Augustinian Community, as citizens whatever side they are one, what they can compromise to meet halfway with the call of the new administration for national unity.

I can compromise my critical political view of the present government. Why? If the present government creates programs and policies beneficial to the common good, I will show my support. Everyone deserves the benefit of the doubt. However, I will stand and speak up if the policies serve only the powerful and rich and are harmful to the people.

Personally, I don’t think I’ll be giving up anything if we’re all called to unite. As citizens of the country, we are obligated to criticize the faults and inadequacies of the current administration. They need to address problems and create solutions to the ballooning inflation rather than prioritizing a call for unity.

I might have to compromise my freedom for national unity, for the duty we called for as citizens of the country. We have to give what is given to us by the government. Whether it would be our services, our businesses, and our finances as a show of support. But when it comes to our rights for the well-being of the citizens. It may not be terrific as our current government will twist our country’s laws in their favor. We might not have the right to dissent. That right is very foundational to our democracy, and I fear that it will be taken away from us.

Since the beginning, my principles and moral compass are set not on any ‘platform’ or personality. It had always been with the Filipino people. Even with the new Marcos administration, I have nothing to sacrifice or give up. The call for unity, in my opinion, is unnecessary because the purpose of the government is to bring people under their rule together to achieve national harmony. So regardless of the new president’s needless ‘call’, I will still do my part as a Filipino to promote the common good because I serve not the government but the Filipino people.

For me, I can compromise my time and energy. I can easily give these two things for the unity of the country because Filipinos have been divided by a lot of things for a long time now. I can see that unity for the Philippines can be good because when a country is united, we can achieve progress.

I could not give the best answer to please everyone’s opinion regarding this matter, but I believe compromise is not the best option in order to attain national unity. I believe there is no compromising that should be done. It is more about obedience amidst the opposition that can bring unity to the country. Obey when it’s for the greater good and oppose when there are malevolent orders. We are under democratic country, after all.

I am willing to compromise my personal choice over which leader is best fit to lead the country due to the vote of the majority. If the solution laid out, although different from what I stand for or support, is proven effective and beneficial, so be it.

National unity, of course, suggests a compromise. I think I would compromise my love for the country so that I can reach across the aisle to further understand the plight of the Filipino people. I strongly believe that now isn’t the time to be divisive, despite the historical distortion that is currently happening in our country. We need to prioritize and combat a lot of societal issues, such as the unceasing inflation rate, safe school reopening, post-pandemic recovery, and progressive bills that should be passed into law, among others. I believe my love for our country should be steady and understanding; that we should always think and act for the marginalized and continue to serve the people.

In order to achieve “unity,” we must, at times, learn how to value compromise. Having differing views/opinions about certain issues only means exercising our rights as a part of a democratic state, but it doesn’t mean a lack of unity. One can only truly achieve unity when people, despite their individual differences, can still work hand in hand to achieve one common goal for the greater benefit of all. We can always choose to compromise but not to the extent of sacrificing or giving up our personal values/beliefs.

Jose Miguel Garin

Former President SAGE ESports Incoming BS Entrepreneurship 4

Matthew Vito Cruz Incoming BS Pharmacy 2

Ellesonn Jules Arboleda Incoming BS Pharmacy 4

Osiah Jude Jaboneta BS Psychology 2A

Samantha Nicole Malaga Political Science Program Alumnus

Norman Pagdayunan Part time Teacher, Center for Religious Studies

Hannah Marie F. Barredo RMT, Part-time Academic Teaching Personnel, CPMT

Kharme Therese Surmion President of USA Political Science Society 2021-2022

Tricia Nadine Javarez Incoming BS MLS 3-I

Reprieve for the Repressed

Embracing diversity, inclusivity, and humanity one haven at a time

BY HANNAH JHANYLLE C. PO

Many fantasize about facing the piercing eyes of a dragon or uncovering long-lost cities or sunken treasures, but to people considered different, “weird,” or “wrong,” a different tale exists. What a world it would be to live without having judgmental and

leering looks and whispers turned your way, without having others seek to “fix” you simply because society deems your existence “unnatural?”

Like other kids coming from marginalized communities, at 14, Ara*, a now fourth-year Marketing Management student, bisexual, and, in her own words, “chubby” individual, quickly realized that despite many celebrating the idea of diversity, in practice, acceptance is a hard-earned treasure.

“Pssst.” “Hoy, sexy.” “Kagwapo tani sa imo galing feeling babayi ka ya.” Such examples of stereotyping, stigma, discrimination, ignorance, or even apathy are more likely occurrences on the street, the internet, or any other space, which, if you think about it, constitute a constant mental struggle (or at least a hum at the back of the mind) that should not be thrust upon anyone. Safe spaces, though not a panacea, certainly provide some solace for these tired souls, but what exactly constitutes a “safe space?”

THE LOCKED HOUSE

A quick Google search on the subject could lead to rabbit holes on how safe spaces stifle propagate the existence of a “snowflake” generation uncomfortable with “politically incorrect” statements and jokes to the point of needing protection. Other critics touch on the furtherance of groupthink and the limitation of dissenting ideas essential for society’s sustainable progression.

In this clamor, it is easy to forget that a) safe spaces comprise several different meanings and applications, and b) freedom of speech is restricted with respect to the rights and reputations of others, national security, public order, public health, and public morals.

According to the Oxford dictionary, safe spaces often refer to environments where people of all categories can feel free of the burdens of bigotry, criticism, harassment, or any other emotional or physical harm. Some examples include the gay and lesbian bars instituted in the mid-1960s that encouraged some semblance of acceptance amid the volatile anti-LGBT period. As GermanAmerican psychologist Kurt Lewin argued, they can also be reflected in group discussions where employees and managers can air their concerns about working conditions and productivity goals without fearing for their jobs.

In this sense, unlike the dismantlers of free speech, they are portrayed as; safe spaces lessen stigmatization and propagate respect and basic human decency. As an associate lawyer and parttime University of San Agustin professor, Atty. Jordana Marie Jaco stated in an interview with The Augustinian, “Its primary intention is to provide a place where marginalized individuals and persons of diverse sexual orientation,

gender identity, expression, and sex characteristics (SOGIESC) can freely express themselves, celebrate their identities, and share lived experiences.” Nongender conforming partners can show affection freely, women and people of color wear and say things they do not need to explain, even to well-meaning people, and people with other religions can practice their faith without being labeled as “terrorists” – everything can just be.

In a classroom setting, the term “safe spaces” relates to “controversy with civility.” It entails recognizing the existence of different and often conflicting stances, showing a willingness to hear such views, and collaborating to foster creative solutions to problems. Students are encouraged to discuss and argue about moral and health issues in a predominantly Christian country where men tend to dominate conversations like the Philippines.

Jaco further posited that “the first step towards the attainment of a gender-fair society is the acknowledgment that some sectors still experience marginalization and oppression.”

Such means stepping out of one’s individualistic mindset and “thinking of the community as a whole,” as University psychologist Lisa Gayoles put it.

TURNING THE KEY

Much like other countries, the Philippines has had its fair share of discrimination and sexual harassment issues. The 2017 National Demographic and Health Survey noted that one in every 20 women and girls aged 15-49 underwent sexual violence in their lifetime. Another report entitled “Disrupting Harm in the Philippines” by the global network End Child Prostitution in Asian Tourism (ECPAT), International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol), and Italy-based United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (Unicef) Office of Research-Innocenti found that about two million internetusing children aged 12 to 17 encountered grave instances of online sexual exploitation and abuse. The said data used a scaled representation of the Philippines’ population and recorded instances of blackmail as pressure to engage in sexual activities, coercion to commit

sexual activities through promises of money or gifts, or people sharing sexual images with minors without permission.

The safety of nonbinary and transgender individuals is not any better, with at least 50 coded individuals having been murdered across the country since 2010. Additionally, a 2017 Human Rights Watch article cited that only 15 percent of Filipinos lived in areas with ordinances that protected them against prejudices on gender identity and sexual orientation.

The passage of Republic Act (RA) No. 7877 of 1995 or the “Anti-Sexual Harassment Act” served as one way of curtailing such numbers as “safe spaces” began including work, educational, and training facilities in addition to private

discrimination and sexual harassment. The 1987 Constitution recognizes the role of women in nation-building and ensures fundamental equality before the law of women and men. The obstacle usually involves the implementation of the existing laws and the awareness of each citizen that they have rights under the law when it comes to genderbased offenses,” observed Jaco. It was not until House Bill No. 4982 or SOGIE Equality Bill and later, RA 11313 or the Safe Spaces Act (Bawal Bastos Law) that the archipelago once again began tackling genderbased issues. The latter was signed into law last April 17, 2019, and confronted the gaps in previous laws, especially with how sexual harassment

“The course of achieving gender equality is a tedious process that requires unlearning and re-learning beliefs, norms, practices, and traditions. Since the various agents of gender socialization such as the family, educational system, media, and religion play crucial roles in shaping our views and values, gender mainstreaming entails gender-related legislation and structural changes,” she added.

THROUGH THE OPEN GATES

More than physical protection, though, safe spaces seek to propagate mental wellness and more holistic development. While they do not replace clinical mental health interventions, they do help one deal with unease and sudden changes.

“Growing up, I never had a safe space. My experiences during my teenage years left me [feeling transparent],” shared Ara*. Each day in school was a careful maneuver around rumors and anxieties without a stable support system to lean on. Religion was not any better with it essentially condemning LGBTQIA+ individuals.

“When I got older and dared to be my authentic self, I found people who loved, accepted, and understood me for who I am. Some fears went away with that constant support. It took a while as I was in a dark place. Seeing the world slowly learning to accept people like me, my heart is happy, and I am willing to be a safe space for anyone who needs it,” she grinned.

Relative to this, Ara* commented on how some people love giving unsolicited advice that are ultimately damaging. “I believe that if you are directly and negatively affected by someone or something, you have the right to say something about it. If it just bothers you because of your beliefs that it is better to mind your own business, [especially if what you are going to say] will not enhance their life,” she opined.

ROAD TO INCLUSION

Women, children, LGBTQIA+ members, interracial families, neurodivergent individuals, immigrants, indigenous people, the poor –no matter what community, marginalized or not, one may belong in, all people have the right to feel comfortable, secure, and worthy of love and acceptance. Rather than blaming safe spaces and diversities for feelings of hurt, shame, and fear, one should start directing energy towards being more empathetic, compassionate, humble, and willing to learn and grow from past transgressions and limitations.

“When you champion safe spaces, you think about whose voices are not heard. Then, you become more open not only to those in the mainstream. You look for alternative and marginalized voices so you can see issues more clearly,” declared University Student Affairs and Welfare Office director Eric Divinagracia. Thus, in the context of educational institutions, advocating for safe spaces involves concerned parties gathering and discussing what issues need priority. Such would then spiral into the implementation of projects and programs, student and teacher activism, and other successive actions.

property. Open dialogue among employees and employers, trust, diversity, inclusion, resilience, good leadership, and examples began taking root as essential elements of a safe and healthy workplace rather than subservience to authority stereotypical of the Filipino culture.

Meanwhile, the Department of Education’s Child Protection Policy of 2012 addressed abuse, violence, exploitation, discrimination, and bullying, among others, of children in private and public schools before being essentially enacted into law by RA 10627 or the “Anti-Bullying Act” the following year. The stated law outlined one’s sexual orientation and gender identity as grounds for bullying and harassment.

“Laws are already in place covering anti-gender

was defined. For one, the term previously only described acts committed by people with influence or moral dominion in work, education, or training.

The “Safe Spaces Act” expanded that explanation to encompass and penalize catcalling, wolf-whistling, misogynistic, transphobic, and homophobic slurs, stalking, and unwanted sexual advances. It also incorporated online sexual harassment, such as uploading or sharing one’s photos without consent, video and audio recordings, cyberstalking, unwanted sexual remarks and comments, threats, and online identity theft. Any action targeted toward another that causes or could lead to mental, emotional, or psychological distress and fear of personal safety was tackled in the provisions.

There is a time for debate and to acknowledge someone’s pain. Doing one does not immediately devalue the other, despite being somewhat of a struggle for people who have never been asked to be sensitive of nuances may think. One may, in good faith, attribute catcalls as compliments, not understanding how women may feel insulted at the notion of their bodies and comfort being up to discussion. Another may bring up adultery to a homosexual, furthering the gap between the understanding of both parties.

“What is the benefit? If it is to educate the person because sabi ng iba, ‘sa bahay nag-umpisa ang pag-catcall,’ do we need parenting classes to make sure that these things do not happen when they grow up? What services can we have in place for these people to go through,” remarked Gayoles.

For instance, the initiation of the Univ-con in the school gym back in 2020, just before the pandemic, saw the University opening itself to all sorts of subcultures. In the words of Divingracia, “the intention was to create a safe space where even if you have different hobbies, you are seen, accepted, and celebrated. The more people see that there are people who will accept them, the less they think of committing suicide, to a certain extent, are less depressed or lonely.”

Small group orientations, town assemblies, leadership training sessions, student government-organized questionnaires, and social media desks also provide students with avenues to vent out their ideas and grievances. Concerning disciplinary measures, Gayoles and Divingracia also motioned to restorative justice, which supports the perpetrator and the victim while preventing recidivism.

“There will always be people who condemn me for living how I live, loving whom I love, and being me, but at the end of the day, I will not stop being myself,” voiced Ara*.

In the end, what matters is the cooperation, respect, and support between and amongst diverse ideas, individuals, and groups to foster a society willing to co-exist and provide a reprieve for the repressed.

What’s So Funny?

BY MERYL B. BABOL

It was supposed to be funny, or so Jezza thought. It all started with a funny meme she found online that made her laugh her ass off on the floor, and yet, moments after sharing the post, poor Jezza found herself attacked by anonymous people to whom he has no relation. It should have been funny; it was just a simple joke, so what went wrong?

THE GREAT GENERATION DIVIDE

Gone were the days when your dad’s corny jokes, your uncle’s stories from when they were younger, or your grandparents’ exciting adventures were the only source of entertainment during family gatherings.

Adam Hayes, an economic sociologist and a professor in Jerusalem, Israel, defines the generation gap as the gulf that divides the ideas and behavior of individuals between two distinct generations. There may be disparities in politics, morals, popular culture, and other areas. Generation gaps have always existed, but they’ve become wider in the 20th and 21st centuries.

There are at least eight (8) generation names from the Lost Generation born between 1883 and 1900 up to the most recent one identified – Generation Alpha born from 2013 to 2025.

When it comes to engagements and disparities in opinions, behaviors, and interests, there will always be arguments between those from the Boomer generation versus those from the Millennial age and from Generation Z, most likely because, despite their birth years, they have lived on a very different spectrum of views and opinions when it comes to generalized ideas.

BOOMER HUMOR

Professor Philip Khalid of the University of San Agustin’s Philosophy Department identified himself as a member of the

Boomer generation and explained how, as a teen, he viewed the older generation as the focus of comedy.

“In the 60s, it was the time when student activism started rapping. This was the point where the teacher no longer had the sole authority or the management. We have a say, and we students have a say, so the humor would be targeted at the elders. There was this saying that you should not trust someone over the age of 30,” shared Prof. Khalid in an interview with The Augustinian.

The so-called “memes” that circulate on the internet have been around since the beginning; it’s just that they are found in newspapers and magazines. Professor Khalid also recalled seeing amusing images in magazines such as The Playboy and Mad Magazine, which he compared to what we have now.

“First, the graphics were not as concentrated as now. Sometimes the humor now has more ‘punch’ than the one before. [Back then], it’s like I can depict a fit of inner anger; ‘Is this it?’ as a bit of exasperation,” he added.

Looking back at the boomer generation’s timeline, there is a cry of exasperation because this generation has seen the darkest of days they could have imagined. This is likely due to a combination of factors, such as individuals delaying starting families during World War II and the Great Depression and optimism that the next generation will be secure and wealthy.

Now that the world has progressed, members of this generation have been described as ‘close-minded’ and resistant to change, especially when it comes to inclusiveness which does not favor the customs they have lived by; however, there are many who try to adjust and adapt to the new world rather than latching on to old beliefs.

GENERATION [WH]Y

Talking about the Millennial generation, clearly, they had their own genre of humor that threads on loose strings; they’re between the dark and light generations, so they’ve experienced both pain and peace. Hence, it may be difficult to understand what millennials find amusing and may leave the rest of society scratching their heads.

Ms. Rachel Ormides, a high school teacher, belonging to the millennial age, explains how millennial humor is more than just being a normal comedy despite being labeled as “dark” and “shocking.”

“The most morbidly interesting thing about millennial humor is that it thrives on taboos – things that most people don’t normally talk about, but this is what makes millennial humor remarkable – it allows people to dive into new depths in understanding generational anxieties, mindsets, and philosophies,” she said.

Humor is a vital part of our society that has been profoundly impacted by the rise of social media and the rise of new technologies. Interestingly enough, the internet is also a source of comedy for the millennial generation.

“Millennial humor is rampant online. Millennials have probably incorporated this into their moral fabric. You may discover this on gaming platforms and

social networking sites. Many social media sites specialize in this,” she added.

Considering memes as a reflection of generational angst and a persuasive instrument helps understand today’s prevalent mindsets and ideologies. The difference between millennial and the Generation Z (Gen-Z) humor is that it reached an extent far from traditional satires.

DIGITAL HUMOR

Born is the generation of social justice champions, keyboard fighters, and digital patrons who stay up until 3 a.m. because it looks like there is a competition on who stays up late and a privilege to those who curl early in bed. These are the youngsters that cover their fear with wit.

Generation Z is frequently referred to as the “tech gurus.” They are likely to spend at least nine hours per day on their phones, either advocating for human and environmental rights, promoting social justice, or arguing with a random stranger who contradicts their position.

“Some people belonging to older generations mock young people for taking things too seriously or making outbursts over someone’s looks, but I suppose this personality or feature of the new generation helped people adjust their attitudes, to comprehend that actions and words might hurt someone deeply,” stated Jezza Taniedo, a 2nd Year student, who identifies herself as a member of Generation Z.

This generation’s sense of humor is so high that even absurd jokes are considered funny. With satirical quips, the world’s harsh reality may be relayed to a younger audience, who will laugh it off since they realize they’re sinking into misery.

“The older generations

typically scrutinize the current generation because their amusing statements or social media postings are taken literally. We use satire to uncover topics that require attention, but many older people take it too seriously and find it offensive when all we want is to raise concerns,” she added.

BOTTOMLESS PIT OF HOPELESSNESS

Their comedic entertainment may seem to be a series of random circumstances, but in reality, it is a coping technique for a world that is in distress with a cherry on top.

In contrast to previous generations, Gen Z’s sense of humor is different. Because of the widespread availability of information on the internet, today’s youth are not only more equipped to deal with the problems of the world, but also more optimistic about finding solutions.

Professor Khalid viewed the present generation’s sense of humor as having a ‘cognitive disharmony’ among the young, for they have many choices but will only cause a feud from within.

“When we make jokes now, I noticed we have to be ‘politically correct’ in our humor. We cannot make fun of races, gender, and other socio-political problems. It used to be funny, but now it’s not. Sometimes, something is supposed to be funny, but some people will not take it funny,” added Prof. Khalid.

This generation can turn the worst events into a laughing stock matter because it is where they realize there is no alternative to the problem at hand. Tired of sexist jokes, stereotypes, homophobia, and racial slurs, the only way this generation can have its escape from the gruesome society is to turn things into comedy.

“Sometimes, I use social media as a kind of self-therapy. I use it as a coping method to get through life, particularly now when there are so many new difficulties popping up on a daily basis, due largely to the pandemic,” stated Ms. Taniedo.

From the lens of a Millennial high school teacher who mostly lives her life with Generation Z, it cannot be denied that although each generation has its own style of humor, with the crisis happening in our world today, there might actually be a similar goal.

“Today’s entertainment isn’t what it seems. Millennials and Generation Z utilize humor to learn, explore social issues, critique the government, and express moral beliefs. While not all of this humor is groundbreaking, it helps others grasp what the millennial generation and generation Z are thinking about.” she stated.

GENERATION FRUSTRATION

There has been a sense of discontent in every age because of boomers’ humor, millennials ‘dank memes’ and gen-z’s sarcasm as a form of entertainment. Such that generational disparities emerge because of the everconstant transformation our world has continually undergone. Technology, together with society’s shift in perceptions, has shaped each generation differently. The youth depend on technology more as a lifeline for skills and commodities, while those older ones persist with more conventional ways of dealing with things.

After a few minutes of conversing with random people defending what he thinks is right, Jezza finally let go of the nonsensical argument and just murmured to herself the words with “They will never understand, never.”

When confronted with having too many problems to deal with and not being old enough to manage them, where does Gen-Z turn to? HUMOR.

USA PUB PHOTOS

JEDRO O. CAWALING

On Shifting Seasons and Unspoken Goodbyes

BY MERYL B. BABOL

Whether it’s the dawn of a new era or the birth of a new one, the seasons have always been changing, and the moment will come again for you, someday.

After a four-long year of hiatus, dubbed as the Kings of Kpop, South Korean boy group Bigbang surprised fans as they dropped their newest single, “Still Life,” under YG Entertainment last April 5, 2022. The multi-awarded 16-year-old boy group consisting of Kwon Ji-yong (G-Dragon), Kang Daesung, Choi Seung Hyun (T.O.P), and Dong Young Bae (Taeyang) had been out of the spotlight ever since their last official release “Flower Road” in 2018. They had been constantly facing either disbandment rumors or hinting at possible reunions for a new era.

“Still Life” is a bittersweet memory lane likening the group’s younger days as

performers to a life filled with trees and changing leaves. The song’s reference to the change of the seasons also reflected how the members had matured separately and now all shine in their own light. In the lyrics performed by G-Dragon and T.O.P, they wailed a silent cry about how they transitioned into a better life, bidding goodbye to their younger selves. This was highlighted in the chorus, “Goodbye now to my beloved young days. Our beautiful spring, summer, autumn, and winter”. Sang with silvery vocals and overwhelming emotions, every line of the song lamented how they bury their traumas from the past and welcome life as they aspire for progress.

Every line was like reminiscing the unique characteristics of each member, where each verse seemingly revealed what each of them is trying to say. The

lines, “Passed the seasons without maturing, I can’t mature (Still),” hinted at how G-Dragon never wanted to leave his youthful days as being an adult masked the fun he used to have.

Although changes are inevitable, they do not always have to be negative. T.O.P wept about “burying all the trauma from past nights” and swore, “I’m going to change more than before to become a good person even more,” as he looked forward to coming

back home as a better artist.

Bigbang’s image had been a blur from all the fast-changing K-pop acts in the present, but their legacy will always remain as one of the most legendary K-Pop groups in history.

For now, there has been no exact announcement on whether or not the group is taking their final bow in the industry or if this comeback highlights the start of a new era for them and the fans.

Power of Tiny Gains

BY OSCAR MARI G. FAJARDO

“The secret to getting results that last is to never stop making improvements.”

The focus of the book is on “atomic” or small life adjustments that may be made by forming good habits and breaking negative ones. These changes, when repeated and built upon, can result in a better version of ourselves.

There are 20 chapters in the book and each chapter starts with a real-life anecdote on how certain actions had an impact on the life of the individual or a group being described in the anecdote. This builds up the context for the rest of the chapter.

James describes the three layers of behavior change in the book: a change in your outcomes, process, or identity. Each layer has a distinct focus: “Outcomes” is concerned with altering outcomes; “Process” is concerned with modifying routines and processes; and “Identity” is concerned with altering your ideas.

Clear advises that we approach change by addressing

each level, but that we must start within and go outsidebeginning with the inner layer of identity, moving outside through our process, and then finishing with results.

Perfection is not key, repetition is.

“If you want to master a habit, the key is to start with repetition, not perfection. You don’t need to map out every feature of a new habit. You just need to practice it. This is the first takeaway of the 3rd Law: youjustneedtogetyourrepsin.”

Perhaps you have attempted to make a new habit as part of your New Year’s resolutions, but by mid-January, you are already finding reasons to procrastinate and saying to yourself, “Next year will be my year, I might just ride this one out.”

Clear makes a significant point on how habits develop gradually over time and how thinking is one of the most crucial success elements. You are a writer each time you complete a page. Here, small victories are crucial. To create a new habit, all

you need to do is increase your reps; perfection is not a must.

This book will help you determine and realize the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It will help you discover a new direction in ways you would not have recognized or anticipated, not because you already have the habits

Ridin’ against all odds, but soon against ourselves

BY SHERGEN Q. VILLANUEVA

Directed by Adam McKay, ‘Don’t Look Up’ is a satirical representation of ignorance toward scientists and how science is largely disregarded in the legal field. This film captures the alarming tendencies of people to turn a deaf ear to the truth even though with the direct unveiling of facts.

The movie dawns when Kate Dibiasky (Jennifer Lawrence) unearths a discovery of a comet that Randall Mindy (Leonardo Di Caprio) calculates to dismantle the planet and blot out humanity in six months and

which makes the movie more intriguing. Additionally, Timothee Chalamet, Jonah Hill, and Meryl Streep expectedly performed well, at times annoyingly well in regards to the characters they portray. Summing up the beauty of the frames is Ariana Grande exceptionally executing her ironic role and also singing the main soundtrack of the film.

This movie is comparable to the ‘Parasite,’ with its dark humor on global contemporary issues.

14 days. This event proceeds to the protest of the two scientists to the public and the government to take legal actions in order to prevent the supposed extinction to happen. These attempts eventually lead to hilariously annoying responses or lack thereof, as people, particularly the President of the United States (Meryl Streep), succumbs to ignorance about the situation.

Setting aside the gist of the plot, definitely, viewers were drawn because of the cast with names that are undeniably on the pedestal of Hollywood. However, moving on to the rest of the film, it is brilliantly noticeable that this casting is not only for marketing, but it serves as the backbone of the main message that celebrities compel us more than serious circumstances.

Oscar-winning A-list actors Jennifer Lawrence and Leonardo Di Caprio delivered remarkable performances in the film, most notably in the scene where they were presenting their concern, and they both lose it live on television because of the emphasized idiocy of the two hosts played by Cate Blanchett and Tyler Perry. Meanwhile, Mark Rylance, playing the billionaire technology CEO Peter Isherwell, takes his character to an uncomfortable and incomprehensible level,

However, ‘Don’t Look Up’ contains comedy that makes you visibly laugh because of its trendy take though the former has the humor that allows you to contemplate deeply due to its profound symbolism. With that thought laid out, this movie, when approached from a shallow angle, may just be another comedic film and nothing more –essentially and ironically serving its purpose. On the flip side, unquestionably, the message is deep, clear, and relevant, considering the onset of the pandemic and climate change. Therefore, the rest of its goal depends on the evaluation of the audience from the film to real-world events.

The twilight of the film is predictable yet stunningly dark and emotional with most of the main characters together in the dining room muttering a prayer while the world collapses. Overall, though containing certain flaws, everyone must look up to this movie, especially when one wants to indulge themselves with dark laughter, awareness, and an unclear spectrum between chill and headbanging irritation.

BY DIANNE NAYELI B. MONTERO

necessary to get by every day. After reading this book, you will have a greater understanding of who you are and how the world works as a result. It will also motivate you to change in order to become 1% better than you were yesterday.

GENRE:

Fear No More

BY EMY ROSE G. GALLEGO

Of all the nerve-wracking questions from my application interview with the USA Publications, this one still gives me the chills to this day. In a fit of anxiousness, my mind had gone blank, and the only thing I could think of was my lifelong ambition, so I said, “Gallego, pumasa sa Bar exam.” It may sound conceited coming from a freshman still getting lost on campus, but it’s the first thing that came to my mind, and I was such in a hurry to wrap up the interview that I had to blurt it out.

“Marami ka pang bigas na kakainin.” It would most likely be my initial reaction if I had been the interviewer; I cannot blame them for that. But here I am, four years later, still a long way from taking the Bar, but with a degree in Political Science and has served the Pub for four years.

I was afraid of being a journalist again. I don’t intend to be part of another school paper, let alone one of the most prestigious publications in the region. I’ve heard horrible comments. In fourth grade, when I earned my first journalism award, a colleague insisted that I had won because our papers had switched. In sixth grade, I wore an oversized hoodie to disguise myself, and avoided my teachers for three days out of shame for failing to qualify for regionals. In ninth grade, I was blamed for failing to win first place in a school press conference because I opted to attend class rather than excuse myself for practice.

The field has evolved into my annual gauge of success, and I could not endure the pressure anymore. And so, I decided to finally put down the pen, take a deep breath, and start anew. It’s time to concentrate on my studies and cut out all extracurricular things. I am done with writing. However, the universe’s call was too strong for me to ignore. I thought my time as a campus journalist was over, but I was wrong.

After seeing the pub’s call for applications and the scholarship it offers on the university’s Facebook page, I figured why not give it a shot? Besides, it can help my parents with the finances, and it would be cool to join a college organization. I

thought it to be so much different from elementary and secondary, and I was right; it is entirely different. The responsibilities of a campus journalist extend beyond competitions and writing articles. It involved putting into words the emotions, ideas, struggles, and points of view of people from all walks of life. It was about giving a platform to those who have been silenced, visiting the marginalized communities to bring their stories to a broader audience, scrutinizing the government’s inaction, and inspiring people through accounts of fortitude and resilience.

The USA Pub allows me to leave my safe space. I was not a natural writer. I’m at a loss for words when it comes to feature writing’s “show don’t tell” approach. Despite taking Political Science, I am not politically savvy to convince readers in my column or editorial. I know nothing about the jargon used in sports writing, not to mention the types of sports to be covered. But, from being a copyeditor from high school who merely proofread spelling mistakes, punctuation, grammatical errors, and create headlines, I learned to write these different types of stories.

The Pub saw me grow. The first few days as a pubpip were challenging. You must prove yourself deserving of your position and submit to the demands of your editors, especially when deadlines are approaching. However, I assure you that nothing is more glorifying than seeing your name in the staff box, having your works published in the newspaper and magazine, and seeing your face on a banner at the university’s gate for bringing honor to the institution.

With USA Pub, I was also able to build linkages, go places, and learned about management. Now, I could handle stress better because deadlines were no longer foreign to me. I now have a wider and deeper understanding of things because managing a publication is much more dramatic and complicated than reading cases in our law courses.

With this chapter coming to a close, I’m going to tell a secret that’s probably not in your interest, but I’ll share it anyway. I was going to quit before I turned second year, but a party has me reconsidering. Meeting

brilliant individuals who were once struggling student journalists like me at the pub’s 90th anniversary, I thought, “If they can, why can’t I?” Yes, we do not share the same circumstances, but I know that if I put my heart into my work, just as they did, I will be able to withstand the struggles. I made them my motivation to keep going and chose to walk forward despite being uncertain of the future.

To our pub seniors, Nang RJ, nang aika, nang Rochelle, nong Bobby, nong Rom, and nang Andi: you have been an inspiration ever since I was a pub rookie. Thank you for the trust, for helping me improve, for the life advice and tips you’ve shared, and for the help with editing the articles.

To all the pubpips I’ve spent the last four years with, you guys are the best.I will always cherish the memories we made together.To my “pub batchmates” who have been with me since day one, nong Jeff and Glaiza, we made it. Thank you for not leaving me behind.

To mam Daguay, thank you for toughening me up. You helped me become more independent and able to handle critiques well. Your insights and criticisms keep us on course and take the pub to new heights. To Geremy, Rotsen, and Pauline, if we survived the two years of the pandemic together, I am sure that you can too. To my family, thank you for supporting and understanding my busy schedule.

To my Polsci classmates and friends, despite my absence from some of our activities, you never made me feel out of place. It was an honor to learn and laugh with you in the historic halls of Rada.

To the pub babies with whom I wished we had spent more time together, despite the obstacles’ attempts to drag you into the depths of insecurity and doubt, you will find genuine individuals who will lift you up. You were there because we believe in your potential. Please take care of the pub. Always honor your commitments, cherish your relationships with your fellow pubpips, and most importantly, never forget to have fun.

I hope to see you all at the centennial celebration. But for now, I should probably turn my laptop off and rest these strained eyes to get ready for a new fight- turning my once made-up headline a reality.

Perfect Storm

BY HECTOR O. COFREROS

Never in my dreams have I anticipated that I would be part of the USA Publications. In fact, I was never interested in journalism before, but because of my course, I have gradually understood and appreciated the role of journalism in society. Probably, what might have sparked my curiosity about journalism is that it speaks truth to power. I joined the publications during the pandemic, which was also when the press was under high scrutiny and being discredited because truth and lies had become indifferent to the public at face value due to disinformation.

I started as a staff writer for the Community Affairs Team and rose to Director of the Program

Management Team. In the past two years, I learned so much from my colleagues who were so passionate about their roles in the publications.

Along the way, I worked hard and enjoyed the tasks assigned to me, and made sure that each work was within the standards of the USA Publications. Of all the stints I did, I can say that the 2022 election coverage is the first on my list of favorites. The coverage was a success because of the collaboration of everyone in the publication to deliver real-time updates of events in the election that unfolded.

Even though I become part of the USA Publications during one of the darkest days of press freedom, I am happy and

proud to have done so. I thank all of my colleagues, especially Nong Jeff, Glaiza, Pauline, Geremy, and Rotsen, for making my experience in the publications fun and, at the same time, worthwhile. I also thank our Editor-in-Chief, Emy Rose, for their patience and understanding and for keeping professional working dynamics because outside of the publications, we’re classmates, close friends, and had been officers of an organization under my leadership. Lastly, I thank Ma’am Ma. Cristy Daguay, our moderator, whom I had known since freshman year. She has been my mentor and a person that I look up to even before I became part of the USA Publications.

“If you could write a headline about yourself, what would it be?”

“If you don’t like how the table is set, turn over the table.”

VALEDICTION

Several Sometimes

leave with nothing while leaving footprints behind.”

BY JEFF G. TOLENTINO

As I started to scribble the words for my valediction, I glanced at the time on the lower right of my laptop – it was precisely 0001H on the 28th of July 2022. As I keyed in the words that would fill the spaces of the empty canvass in front of me, I was brought to a trance by the realization that I was penning down the last article and entry I would write for USA Publications.

When I first transferred to the University of San Agustin, I had no connections with anyone. As an irregular, my classes would sometimes be situated on the fifth floor of Mendel Hall and the next on the 4th floor of the FLD Building. The walk-in between shifts was one of my comforts as I got to breathe out the tension I felt inside the classroom as an odd one. At an average pace, it would take me about 68 steps from the first landing of Blanco Hall, in the College of Engineering and Architecture, to the Alumni Building.

I was on the move from classes and halls. If anything is constant, it is the fact that I’ll always choose the spot that is the farthest right from the entrance of a room to the last rows at the back near a window. I’d like to think that it is in the Universe’s grand plot that I always end up in the same spot where everyone seems not to notice because, in that little corner, I get to observe and see everything, including that of the poster from the publications.

Applying for USA Publications was one of those out-of-nothing I should do it anyway decisions I made. So, with the little I got, I mustered my courage to knock on the door with a broken blind – and thus, the beginning of one of my several sometimes.

I AM STILL A WALLFLOWER

Perhaps the greatest perk of being a wallflower is that you don’t get noticed. During the qualifying phases of the publications, I was faced with individuals who have excelled in their fields far more than I could ever achieve. While they were holding tons of certificates in their

hands and proud accomplishments on their faces, all I had was a crumpled piece of paper in my bag and a pen nearly out of ink. But I didn’t back out. I knew that at some point, I would need to try different things and create memories, and that’s how I’ll know I lived.

In some unknown wisp of luck, I passed the four phases of the qualifying examinations. If there is one thing I am now certain of after four years of tenure in the pub, the qualifying examinations are the easiest part. The hardest part was living up to the fact that I made it to the selected few, the cream of the crop of a prestigious organization, and I was faced with the realization that I was way out of my makeup world and comfort zone.

During the first few months, I have found it difficult to reach out and create a link with my fellow staffer. But, yet again, the Universe’s grand plot has provided my haven, as my locker assignment was situated at the farthest point from the entrance, beside the window overlooking the university’s cafeteria. In that spot, I could slowly make connections, laugh silently, craft playfully, and observe how things that I didn’t know worked.

THIS IS THE PART I BID GOODBYE

My tell tales in the USA Publications has been both a calm and rough circus of what if’s. In an experience that made me question my principles, and it is also, in my proudest words, I’ll say that I was part of such diverse, unique, and peculiar individuals. I am profoundly and forever indebted to my mentors, who have taught me how to express my thoughts in writing.

I am only one of the many aspirants who have made it into the publications, yet not all of us were able to concur on a valediction message. So to all the fine men, women, and non-binary individuals with whom I have made memories, know that you are all in my thoughts as I write this valediction.

To Ma’am Daguay, I can’t put into words the feelings of

appreciation I have for your guide to all of us. We have been a rough batch of publication staff, and you have never failed to put us back on track whenever we go askew. I know that it was in the subtle ways that you’ve shaped us to our best potential and still by being ourselves.

To Emy, who has been my friend? And a colleague, we’ve made it! I’ll miss your mega voice that kickstarts my life whenever we have an early meeting or a latenight cram. To Glaiza, our constant ghoster, and Angel, I wish you two odds in your upcoming exams. It was a pleasure to work with you.

To Hector, it was a fun journey. To Rotsen, may our BL fantasies forever live. To Hannah, as both cultured individuals, may our Zuko forever be young, and Uncle Iroh’s advice stays with us. Also, as an addition to the selfproclaimed cultured individuals of the pub, Benz – firmly believes that an air bender can control water.

To Zed, why so glum? I still encourage you to read the sequel; in the end, it is worth the pain. In that book, you find resolve to believe that individuals destined to be together will always find each other no matter the distance, no matter the time, always — spoiler! To Carl, it was nice to have a person I could be comfortable with. To JP, I have always been fond of your aesthetics. To Kendra, you are different and rare, making you unique and powerful.

To Geremy, it is with you that I built and felt the most connection. My publications’ final year would have been so ordinary and dull without you. I have grown as a person, matured, and widened my perspective on things. And I have you to thank for that. You will be fine.

OBLIVIATE

As I conclude my long valediction, I wish the prints would magically disappear just as Hermione erased herself in her parents’ memory. I’d still like to erase my presence, scent, work, and titles—every trace of it. But all of this belongs to a treasured and wonderful part of my several sometimes.

To everyone, this is your Jeff, Orb, Jeffyyy, and to some Ziru, signing off.

“To

I’d like to erase every trace of it – my presence, scent, work, and titles. But I’d also like to bring everything I have had for the past four years. The memories, the moments, and the several sometimes of me being in the USA Publications.

Every Color, Every You

BY ANGEL GRACE O. OCTOSO

Astoundingly, color is an inherent part of every living soul.

When we see how colors and emotions intersect, we understand how it depicts our daily lives. Perhaps, it pertains to how we perceive things deeply, express ourselves, or even view the world.

How often do we unconsciously become the exact color we try to perceive when we link it with emotions? Blue and grey express deepest vulnerabilities, sadness, and solitude, while warm colors like yellow and orange evoke happiness and positivity. Red represents anger, passion, and intensity—and then there’s green, which shows calmness and peace.

With the presence of hues surrounding us, often overlooked and sometimes unseen, which color are you?