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The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin • Iloilo City, Philippines usa pub pHoto / ray adrIaN c. macaLaLaG
Volume LIX Number 2 • October 11, 2013
The manmade art of Nature ILOILO rIVEr HAS BrOUgHT LIFE TO THE CITy, nOW IT IS THE CITy’S TUrn TO BrIng IT BACK TO LIFE By mAryleX G. SUmAtrA
Glimmering as if covered with thousands of crystals at the surface, the rivers of Italy is well known to cater her foreign and local visitors with the most serene and at the same time breath-taking river cruises. It’s not all about the river alone, but the charisma that the city has with its well preserved artisticallyinclined structures blend very well to the beauty of their river. however, this article is not about praising the river of other countries but instead to look at our very own Iloilo river and compare it to them – the question is, does our Iloilo river have what it takes to be a tourist destination?
The Masterplan in Perspectives However, for sure a masterplan doesn’t only mean river rehabilitation and beautification. By the word “master” itself indicates that what we can tangibly and visually see isn’t the whole of the entire agenda. As defined by Mr. noel z. Hechanova, Head of the City Environment and natural resources (CEnrO), the Iloilo river Masterplan is “[the] vision about the river... it is more concerned of what we want to do with the river.” According to the document of Dr. Belleza, given
by the CEnrO, the masterplan identifies ways to revitalize the natural and built heritage of the Iloilo-Batiano river, reflective of the people’s culture and environment to reveal a true urban treasure. Though, called as “Iloilo river Master Plan,” it is not just about the river at all, but it is all about the city with the river at the center. This is why Mr. Hechanova stressed during the interview, “it is not just about the restoration and Esplanade, it is composed of key elements like: water management, drainage system, eco-tourism, urban design, landscaping, economic development, etc.” Hitting Many Birds with One Stone One of the most celebrated outcome of the masterplan is the Iloilo Esplanade which at first served only as a simple park for the Ilonggos until recently that it became part of their everyday lives as it becomes a venue for different public activities. However, did you know that it is more than what it meet your eyes? It is not
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known to most of the public that Esplanade wasn’t primarily built to become just a park. According to Mr. Hechanova, “the primary purpose of Esplanade is for the slope protection of the river and as an answer to the problem of lack of public access, but since it was built, it gathered so much attention that the public claimed it as their own. At least, it has become a tourist attraction at the same time it has benefited the river.” Moreover, due to the positive response of the public and to boost more public awareness, Esplanade 2, which is located at the other side of the river, was started earlier this year. Synergism Aside from the Iloilo river, Calle real otherwise known as the Central Business Center of the city is also included in the masterplan. Even though located at the heart of the city, its 26 art deco and neo classic buildings were included in the agenda of the masterplan. “Calle real is part of the Iloilo river, anything between
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Today, though not-soglimmering, the Iloilo river is on its way to revitalization. Through those river clean ups, the building of Esplanade and its becoming a tourist attraction, it is evident how much have changed to the face of the river. So, if checked point by point, our very own Iloilo river compared to those Italian river: a historically-rich river with a potential of becoming not just a local but national tourist’s spot, check!
300m away from the river bank is part of the eastuary,” Mr. Hechanova stressed during the interview, “it means, the repainting, restoration of the heritage structures along the Calle real is part of the Iloilo river Masterplan.” It was once the center of the city’s economic activities, back when Iloilo City was considered as the “Queen City of the South”. Today, it is a street full of mixed modern-day and decades-old businesses that witnessed the crowning glory of the city, still assuming
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its function in the economy of the city. Iloilo City in the Future With the sprouting of infrastructure projects (road widening, commercial development centers and skyhigh hotels) along Benigno S. Aquino Avenue, also known as the Iloilo-Jaro Diversion road. It is evident that Iloilo City is on its new chapter when in comes to development. Through the presentation of Dr. Belleza, Mr. Hechanova shared to us the city’s
development ‘wish-list’, it ranges from district tourism circuits which focuses on arts, culture and heritage, to river cafes, restaurants and cruises along the Iloilo river, and to underpass crossing Iloilo Bridge. Those are just the start of the evolution of the “City of Love”, with the rich historical background of the city and river itself and the unwavering beauty of the city’s heritage buildings, and with the start of the masterplan, Iloilo City will indeed be a true urban treasure.
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CampusLife Augustinian the
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The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin • Iloilo City, Philippines
Volume LIX Number 2 • October 11, 2013
The Least, but not the Last H ow cou r ses with small populatio n s g et b y
“Being part of the minority can be both a blessing and a burden. Studying in a University of roughly 10,490 students barely gives one the chance to stand out.”
By Ayah Danica V. Granada and Stephanie Kay l. Urquiola
Is less really more? Or is bigger better? Come enrolment time, arrays of students clump together, comparing schedules and teachers, wondering who their new –or not so new– classmates will be this up-coming semester. And among the large percentage of Medical Laboratory Science, Pharmacy, or Business Administration students, one or two students from courses with lesser population. Just Keep Swimming When asked what one is majoring in, one either gets a really common response, or a lesser known, or unheard, course that is sure to make others think, “I didn’t even know they offered that here!” Are we really all just fish swimming in one big ocean? For some students of the University, the term ‘pond’ would be more appropriate. They are the ones who don’t get to hide during recitations, the handful who can’t even sneak in a few minutes of shuteye or sly siestas, and some, when everybody else is absent, actually get to have one-on-one teacher-student interactions (yes, the “class” goes on). These are the people with lesser populated courses - the minority. Being part of the minority can be both a blessing and a burden. Studying in a University of roughly 10,490 students barely gives one the chance to “stand out”. But despite the odds, they still manage to tread deep into the waters, and go with the flow – or against the waves. No Seat Apart For Abigail Vardeleon, Bachelor in Landscape Architecture student, outdoor sceneries are sometimes the least of her problems. ‘Since we are only 14 in the class, we get more privileges than most students. But I also feel pressured because our teachers expect a lot from us, and I don’t want to disappoint them,” she says as she describes their typical classroom setting. “The feeling doesn’t really change whether I’m in a small group or with a large group, either way, I study. To be honest, I was a bit shocked to see only eight students, including me,
usa pub illustration / jerson e. elmido
as the only enrollees in BS Chemical Engineering. It didn’t take long enough for me to adjust. Everything felt normal and fell into place eventually,” Mark Lendll Pastrana shared. So much for “cheating” arrangements, right? Kidding. Musketeer Mentality While it may seem that having fewer students in a class would allow an educator to provide more one-onone attention, fewer is not always better when it comes to students. Small class sizes do have their advantages and disadvantages. “We’re not given as much priority as compared to other courses when it comes to
college activities. Sometimes we’re not informed about activities and/or requirements, so we’re usually perceived to be inactive,” clarifies Celine Ciara Celis, fourth-year BS Chemistry student. Attendance is also one of the minor issues. While one or two students missing a large class isn’t a big deal, a small number of absentees can make a big difference in a small class. If there are only five or 10 students in a class, two missing students represent a much larger percentage of the class population, which often resulted to cancellation of classes. “Being a little more ‘pampered’; some students
tend to abuse their privileges and slack off in class. The ‘one for all, all for one’ tendency to cut class also rises,” comments Vardeleon. Center of Attention One instructor thinks so otherwise. “With a small class, I am able to identify their abilities faster, making it easier for me to help them develop their skills, than to a class of about 40 students. Furthermore, when one student in a small class is absent, it is immediately noticed, and concern for him or her arises. I become more motivated to bring him back to his learning environment,” says Marites Cornel, English teacher. According to Pastrana,
“Being part of a small group makes it easier for us to circulate the lesson well amongst ourselves. It’s also easier for our teachers to present the lesson plans and help us understand through the abundant focus given, especially to a student who falls behind.” “Hours spent inside the classroom are more productive. There are more teacher-student interactions resulting in good quality of learning. Also, there are circumstances (for minor subjects) when we have to be fused with other courses, so we’re given more opportunities to socialize with a variety of people,” adds Celis. Students in a minority have both advantages and
disadvantages, but so do students belonging to a majority. If both have pros and cons, then how can one say that the other is the weaker link? Class size in relation to student achievement has been tried, debated, and analyzed over time. Having a lower quantity allows more time to focus on quality. If you ask us, there’s no greater success than that. It’s not just the goals and the outcomes that should be visualized; it’s the happiness and satisfaction we imagine we’ll experience when we get there. They may not have abundant resources, but this means passion and purpose are their greatest assetst. In reality, sometimes we even learn how to cheer on the underdog because we see ourselves in them. Every now and then, the best part about being the underdog is coming out on top. There’s no limit to what one can accomplish when he invests himself in a vision that moves and inspires.
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Volume LIX Number 2 • October 11, 2013
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this n ew c r a z e of ilo n g g os has b r ou g ht bee r a n ew dai r y mea n i n g . take a peek at these hubs that will su r el y e n tice y ou r se n ses - dakasi , moo n leaf , sha r etea , a n d bo n appetea
Tea
w e n e h t is
Beer By joyce gem m. caÑete
MOONLEAF Branch: Assumption Iloilo, GT Plaza and Diversion Road Situated at the heart of the busy General Luna road and just a walking distance from schools. Moonleaf welcomes everyone, from grade school to corporate manager. With prices ranging from P45-P100, it is one of the cheapest deals you can get for a cup of good tea; thus, there is no need to stress out before you can chill out. However, menu is very limited and can be boring if you are
a regular customer. Moonleaf also offers chips, pastas and pastries and are great when coupled with your drink. The place is of solid white and green-accented motif and carries an air of pop-vintage music - something I personally love about this place. Freedom wall, CCTVs, comfort rooms, WIFI, and the fast and friendly crew also add a feeling of comfort and security. Plus, you get discount or free tea in exchange of a completed loyalty card- another reason why I keep on coming back.
But what’s more special about Moonleaf is that they are not only selling products of Mother nature but also saving the nature because it uses biodegradable cups.
With pop music filling the cold atmosphere and a flat TV screening their product quality and info, you’ll patiently wait for your remote-looking device to vibrate and blink red- a cue that your order is good to go. Despite Sharetea’s obvious lack in space, the availability of facilities such as comfort rooms, WIFI, CCTVs, loyalty card system and remarkable lighting made up for it. To be honest, I’ve been in this place thrice, but I might come back now and
then because of the personnel’s warm accommodation.
will greet you as you enter and a more exciting ambiance with multi-colored motif will ease your tiring day. Since they only have four tables-for-two, you might feel a little claustrophobic inside. Thanks to the pop-punk music ambiance (they’re fond of Avril as it seems), you will feel at home eventually. With no comfort rooms and loyalty card system, you would wish that the Man-Who-Can’t-Be-Moved-
and-Barely-Talk at the cashier could make up for it. I’m forever grateful that they make good Belgian waffles, and that their teas don’t only sound good, but also taste good…and take note, they can go as big as 1 liter.
Bestseller: Wintermelon Milk Tea with pearls, PhP 85.00 Spare yourself with the diuretic and stimulating effect of tea, but never deprive yourself of the wonderful ratio of wintermelon’s sweetness and milk’s creaminess. My advice, go for soft and chewy pearls as sinkers.
Do me a favor would you? Bring your memory back, preferably on a particular Sunday morning when your grandmom asked you to brew a Lipton teabag for her. Now, can you remember how the tea tastes back then? Or, can you recall a day when you took a cup of tea? Well, what seems to leave a bitter tang on your taste buds is now an addiction. Addictea. That’s how you call a tea dependent person. What seems to be addictive taste comes from this “modernized” infusion. First, the Basics: Black, Oolong, Jasmine, Ceylon, Assam and a lot more. These are the ones which impart the “tea” identity to your drink and all the side effects that come along with it. Oolong and black are both strong stimulants (the former stronger than the other) – a must for someone with the motto: “Ang tulog nababawi, ang grades hindi.” This is also good for those girls on diet. On
the other hand, Jasmine has calming effect and believed to combat stress. Second, the other Drinks: It is to take note that not all drinks sold in the teashop is tea- some are solely milkbased, water-based or Yakultbased. Meaning, you basically taste the good flavors without getting the effects of tea. While a lot of tea shops offer a wide array of milk and fruit infusions, eccentric combinations like rock salt and cheese, and frappes are
also a must-try. The beauty of this is that you can personalize your perfect cup of tea- just the way you like it. Lastly, the must Try or Experiment: Milk teas may usually go well with pearls and pudding; fruit and Yakult teas with nata and jelly, but always dare to shift from one to another. Never hesitate to grab a brochure of the shop’s menu and take ample time in deciding which one to buy. Remember, there is such thing as love at first sip!
usa pub PHOTOs / mara elaiza a. flores
DAKASI Branch: Smallville Complex Hands down to their commitment “Shake only upon order.” Fact #1: Dakasi is the only teashop in Iloilo that uses an electronic shaker. This ensures that your cup of happiness is perfectly mixed. All ingredients are freshly prepared guaranteeing satisfaction. Fact #2: They only have one electronic shaker, so expect slow service. Fact #3: No comfort room to comfort you in case you feel the diuretic effect of tea. Fact #4: For those who are fond of slow subtle religious songs, this is the place for you. Fact #5: No loyalty card for the regulars.
Dakasi enthusiasts and wannabes because incredible tea experience doesn’t end here! Despite the recent health issues about them, there are other things Dakasi is proud of. Considerably, with spacious area, you’ll surely find a decent spot- sofa or cushioned chair, a long table or a table-for-two – just choose. One can’t help but perceive the “lively ambience” of the place due to its solid white and yellow-accent motif which is intensified by incredible lighting. The wall on one side shows a fascinating view of the world’s most iconic infrastructures including our Rizal monument. With over 90 teas, 7 addons, and a number of snacks, I recommend that you ask advice from a friend or from their warm
SHARETEA Branch: Smallville Complex They boast as Taipei’s no. 1. Located at the center of the party capital of Iloilo, tea enthusiasts can now enjoy and feast their eyes on over 51 teas and 8 add-ons to choose from. The site is of solid white, accented with green monoblock chairs and purple sofas, and walls decorated with framed pictures of bizarre-looking teas and strangers’ smiles.
Must try: Sharetea’s Taiwan Classic Crispy Chicken in spicy powder at PhP 75.00 Best seller: Okinawa Pearl Milk Tea, PhP 100.00 Taking a sip of the shop’s bestseller, you will definitely notice that there’s something special other than its delightful combination of tea and milk that one can’t just tell.
personnel…or else it’ll take an hour for you to decide. Unique drinks include Oreo, Halo-halo and Blueberry Milk Tea. Make sure your budget can afford your addiction because this one is a little expensive. Bestseller: Bubble Milk Tea with egg pudding and coco jelly, PhP 140.00 It is a beautiful confusion between “What is this?” and “Wow, this tastes great.” BMT gives you this “not-so-sweet but can tickle my sweet tooth” feeling, but with soft and chewy pearls, egg pudding that melts in your mouth and flavorful coco jelly in a single cup, it is an adventure in every sip. Imagining it right now makes me want to run back to this place!
BON APPETEA Branches: John B. Lacson Molo and St. Paul’s University Iloilo It is one of the first teashops to open in Iloilo. Although the smallest of them all, Bon Appetea survives the everyday due to its affordable but flavorful teas. Located at the main roads of Gen. Luna and M.H. Del Pilar, Bon Appetea is basically accessible to students. A ceiling-to-floor glass façade
Bestseller: Nirvana, PhP 80.00 The creamy caramel flavor satisfies the sweet tooth but masks the taste of tea. The pearls are chewy but fall short in softness.
Features Augustinian the
The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin • Iloilo City, Philippines usa pub PHOTOs / daniel p. abutas and mara elaiza a. flores
usa pub PHOTO / daniel p. abutas
Restless and Relentless “ T hou hast made us fo r T h y self , O L o r d , a n d ou r hea r t is r estless u n til it fi n ds its r est i n T hee .”
- A u g usti n e of H ippo , T h e C on f essions o f S aint A ugustine
By Ayah Danica V. Granada
They say a journey of a thousand miles begins with one step. Our Patron Saint, Augustine, took the road less traveled and embarked on a pilgrimage that led him to self-discovery, and to God. Based on the libretto of the Restless Heart play, first produced in the University in 1994, Restless Pilgrim, an Opera in Four Acts on the life of St. Augustine, composed by Gerardo Muyuela and Beny Castillon and written by Flaviano Manalo, was restaged as part of the University’s 60th anniversary celebration. The said play was under the direction of Eric Divinagracia in collaboration with the Little Theater, Fine Arts, Interior Design and Architecture Departments, the Administration, and the Theology Department. The opera top-billed talents such as National Music Competitions for Young Artists (NAMCYA) champion Wynn Natividad portraying Augustine’s mother, Monica; and ILOPRISAA winners Johanne Melody Manzano as Augustine’s lover and Merky Arboleda as the young Augustine. Costume designs featured were created by USA
Alumna and current Iloilo Designer’s Guild President, Jaki Penalosa. Distinguished rosters of Augustinian performing artists also took part including the USA Choir, USA Troubadours and USA Kawilihan under the artistic direction of Ballet Philippines’ alumna Annie Divinagracia-Sartorio. Many had been learned from Augustine’s autobiography especially of bringing one’s heart closer to God –the only place to find true happiness. But who was this ‘sinner turned saint’ that “Restless Pilgrim” aims to introduce to us? Make Me Pure… but Not Yet Portraying the young Augustine is Melky Arboleda, a BS Foreign Service 2 student, who has yet to fulfill journeys of his own. Despite the fact that he is not a bonafide Troubadouhr, Melky’s passion for singing snagged him the lead role. “Having been given the chance to play the role of
Augustine is a blessing,” he comments, “putting myself in his shoes was not as challenging as I thought it’d be. As a foreign service student, our lectures relate to aspects of Augustine’s life which the opera focuses on especially that of travel, laws and study of rhetoric.” Production Practice Blues Pre-production preparation has become a constant battle
and his co-actors had to follow. All these time management practices were made bearable under the guidance of their coach, Arne Lubasan, awardwinning artistic director of the USA Troubadours, who also played the role of the younger Augustine during his time at the production’s premiere. Ever at Work and Ever at Rest Not all second chances
“Not all second chances are productions of a failed second attempt.” among studies, rehearsals, and personal choices. With 14 songs to be sung twice a day during the production’s three showings, actors need to set their priorities and focus on the show. Discipline and repeatedly listening to the production music while studying, vocalizing daily, avoidance of sweets, and getting enough rest were among the rigorous routines Melky
are productions of a failed first attempt. Singing and appearing only in the prologue and epilogue in this year’s production, Arne Lubasan compared his roles and explained, “I’m no longer delivering the role of a young, energetic, restless and adventurous Augustine I took years ago. The older Augustine I’m portraying now is wiser and calmer because of his
new and deeper understanding of the world and the truths he discovered. He is quite a subdued character.” But Augustine wasn’t the only one who has grown in wisdom; there is no doubt that Mr. Lubasan has too. Can you say ‘double trouble’? Dilige Et Quod Vis Fac “Love and do what you will.” The cast and singers aren’t all strictly limited to Conservatory of Music students. Auditions were held and an array of students from different departments was selected and later on assigned roles. Taking time out of their already busy schedules for the time-consuming rehearsals are surely acts done out of love and dedication. “I expect them to deliver what is expected of them as artists and really touch audience’s lives through their roles,” adds Mr. Lubasan. Late Have I Loved Thee With songs composed by Mr. Muyuela, Mr. Lubasan hopes that “For those who do not know Augustine, I hope this production will and can help them understand his restless journey through music.” He also adds that, The Lily and
the River was his favorite among the production’s songs. “Technically speaking, with an easily retained melody, it has the elements of becoming a mainstream radio-friendly hit song. It effortlessly captures the listener’s ears and touches a lover’s soul.” Through the role of the young Augustine, Melky and Mr. Lubasan have discovered more not only about themselves but also about our Patron Saint as well. Their acquired wisdom was not only limited to theology classes and manuscripts. Having been given the opportunity in Restless Pilgrim, both found out how much talent God has given them. They were very lucky to have shared their talents with the Augustinians on premiere night and showings. We are all guilty of dwelling on temptations and pleasures of our world. “We don’t necessarily need to aim for sainthood, but like Augustine, we must also be converted. I wanted the audience to feel Augustine’s restlessness so that each of them will experience real conversion. If our Patron Saint was able to veer away from his immoral ways, we can too. It is never too late, ”shares Mr. Lubasan.
B4-B5 Volume LIX Number 2 • October 11, 2013
the Nigerian in rizal’s novel usa pub PHOTO / daniel p. abutas
r eal battle c r y of sisa o n a n d off sta g e by joyce gem m. cañete
“Enough!” With beads of sweat racing down her temples and eyes shut in anguish, Sisa screams at the top of her lungs. The auditorium echoes an abrupt silence until every pair of hands gives a round of applause - not because of the intense scene but for the fact that Sisa was played by a foreigner. “I use my talent to reach out to people.” Nigerian student Ucheh Magdalene, more known as “Sugar”, is one among the few who stepped out of their comfort zones. With scholarship also as one of the reasons, Sugar personally chose her fate which she intends to finish despite the difficulty in balancing rehearsals and school work. “It’s kind of hard but also very inspiring for the fact that I’m going to be speaking your own language so it’s also a big challenge,” Sugar explained. “To work with people who are of different culture - it’s difficult.” In spite of her skirmish against culture shock, Sugar, a third year Mass Communications student, proudly shared that she is able
to make into the dean’s list while being a University of San Agustin Little Theater (USALT) member at the same time. “I’m already in the third year gani. I just have three semesters more, why would I quit?” she asked rhetorically. USALT Alderman Khlea Mae Alibusa revealed that during the audition two years ago, the USALT was expecting a lot from the two foreign applicants - Sugar being one of the two. “Good thing is, they were both capable of acting, but the stronger actually is Sugar,” she admitted. Sugar already took two roles that required her to speak our dialect: Teacher, during the last uni-wide orientation, and Sisa, being the most prevalent. USALT Artistic Director Eric Divinagracia suggested Magdalene to take the latter
role since she carries strong emotions and reflects through her difficulty in speaking Hiligaynon, the same struggle that Sisa experiences as she finds her real voice in saying no to oppression. “Sisa is the most intense role for me and the fact that I’m a foreigner, that’s the catch - and many people like it,” Sugar confessed. “I think Filipinos, particularly, are very rhythmic when they speak. Now, I can say “okay lang, ah sige, bongga!,” she laughed. “I really like that and that’s one of the
reasons why I don’t leave LT.” With such fondness in speaking the Hiigaynon language and eating Pinoy foods, Sugar still tries not to adjust that much so that she won’t get used to the culture and bring it back home. One particular Filipino custom she struggles to adapt with is the ‘Bahala Na’ attitude. “Sometimes, your patience is too much and you take a lot of things for granted,” she said. ”From where I come from, people are very pushy that’s why if you’re in a group with me, you have to buckle up
cause if you don’t, I’m going to buckle you up.” However, Sugar admits that she has been inactive last semester, so the USALT Director had to temporarily remove Sugar’s role as Sisa. “She seldom stays in LT, for she prioritizes her studies,” Alibusa says; ”but for us, Magdalene’s presence makes our relationship stronger with one another. Despite being late, she’ll ask if in what way she could be of help.” When Sugar had a feeling that the Little Theater gives her
so much headache and stress, all she thinks is that Little Theater is her family and we are her friends. If she lets go of the LT, she is also leaving her family and friends that’s why she always comes back. It takes a lot of courage to perform in front of people, but acting ‘Pinoy’ before the Filipinos is another story. Behind Sugar’s struggle in portraying Sisa’s weakness and fear is an inspiring act of bravery that sets the auditorium in an abrupt silence followed by a round of applause.
a S Y M B O L I C I C O N O F T H E C I T Y T H A T has bee n the p r otecto r of I T s C U L T U R E A N D H E R I T A G E By rochelle louise d. doromal
Stepping through the open doors of Museo Iloilo, I was mesmerized by the paintings hanging on the wall. As I proceeded, my eyes were caught by antique jars and artifacts. I walked towards the middle-aged woman behind the counter, handed my entrance fee and moved on to look around the place. I was then captivated by the Ilonggo art, culture and history. “Vision” - is the recent exhibit which aims to showcase the masterpieces of 63 Ilonggos, 10 of whom were Augustinians. With brushes at hand, they have created works of art which are worthy to be displayed in the museum. Every stroke they made and colors they had chosen are more than just simply smearing paint on a canvas. They used vision to show, not only works to marvel, but works that tell a story. Aside from the paintings which attracted the interest of many, Museo Iloilo has a permanent exhibit of the collections of trade wares, heirloom pieces, relics, artifacts, and even religious figures made of wood and ivory. These were bought, donated, and some even borrowed to be sources of information on the history and culture of the Ilonggos. An interesting fact is that some burial jars displayed in the museum have real bones inside. Examining these displays could bring people to a time of handloom weaving and traditional way of living.
“We also have Summer Art Workshops during April and May,” Manuela A. Gullo, a Museo staff, said in Hiligaynon. Different schools may even arrange for an educational tour and a film showing as well. They also organized an annual Dinagyang and Paraw Regatta on-the-spot painting contests in January and February. Sergio Peñasales, an Ilonggo architect, built Museo Iloilo which preserves the rich culture and heritage of Western Visayas. The Province of Iloilo donated the 2,000 square meter lot on which the museum was constructed. The mural designs of old churches on its facade and the modern structure distinguishes it from other museums. Since the opening of its doors to the public, Museo Iloilo has been a consistent tourist attraction and center foreducational experience. Currently, it is managed by the Iloilo Cultural Research Foundation, Inc. (ICRFI) with Mrs. Imelda Florete as the Chairperson and Mrs. Virginia Segovia as the President, Museo
Iloilo strives to uphold its name. It aims to maintain and develop cultural education and tourism. Fortunately, the trustees are mostly, if not all, civic leaders, religious lay leaders, businessmen or professionals with concern for heritage and culture. The Museo receives resources from donations and contributions of charitable contacts here and abroad, and volunteers also come to help the museum. Found in Bonifacio Drive, Iloilo City, beside the Iloilo Provincial Capitol, everyone is welcomed to witness the pieces it contains - pieces full of historical value. All it takes is fifteen pesos of entrance fee and the effort to go to the edifice. Truly, it is a place to enrich one’s knowledge on Ilonggo history and culture. The whole foundation encourages everyone, teenagers and adults, Ilonggos and foreigners, to come and visit Museo Iloilo. Ilonggos, with deep appreciation to their rich culture, can tell the story hidden behind every artifact.
“Ilonggos, with deep appreciation to their rich culture, can tell the story hidden behind every artifact.”
usa pub PHOTOs / mara elaiza a. flores
Envisioning the Past
Filipino Augustinian the
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The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin • Iloilo City, Philippines
JUAN, O Y O N PI ? Y O N I F ? MAS PATOK NG A O N A ni therese
es
mae f. billon
Matatanggap kaya ni Juan ang pagpapalit ng Pilipinas sa Filipinas o tututol siya sa pagpapatupad nito? Alin ba ang magiging mas matimbang, PINOY o FINOY? Nakatatawag pansin ang kasalukuyang isyu hinggil sa pagbabagong nais ipatupad ng Komisyon sa Wikang Filipino (KWF) sa opisyal na pangalan ng ating bansa. Napagpasyahan nilang muling ibalik ang dating bansag sa Pilipinas noong unang panahon, “F” para sa “P”, Filipinas para sa Pilipinas. Ito ang gustong mangyari ng mga namamahala ng KWF sapagkat para sa kanila, isa itong hakbang upang mapaunlad at mapagyaman ang kasaysayan ng ating bansa dahil ito ang naunang ipinangalan sa Pilipinas noong narito pa ang mga Kastila bilang alay sa Haring Felipe II. Ayon kay Marne Kilates ng KWF, “Nararapat lamang baguhin ang pangalan ng bansa sapagkat kasama na ang letrang “F” sa alpabeto ngayon na dati ay wala.” Tiniyak din niyang walang ipapalabas na pera o gastos sa pagbabagong ito. Iminungkahi rin nilang palitan ng Filipinas ang lahat ng mga letterheads, selyo at iba pang opisyal na dokumento kasama na rin dito ang paghimok sa iba’t ibang institusyon at paaralan. Kung nakaeenganyo sa tainga ng iba ang “Filipinas”, meron namang nababagot
sa paksang ito. Kung iisiping maigi, ipakikilala ni Noynoy ang kanyang sarili bilang si F-Noy (Fi-Noy) imbes na P-Noy at ang kanyang posisyon bilang “ang presidente ng Filipinas”. Ang ahensiyang naghahatid ng ulat tungkol sa lagay ng panahon o PAGASA ay lalabas bilang FAGASA habang ang sikat na programang Pinoy Big Brother (PBB) ay gagawing Finoy Big Brother (Fi-BB). Ang prestihyosong paraalang, Unibersididad ng Pilipinas o pamilyar sa tawag na UP ay magiging Unibersidad ng Filipinas o UF (U-Fi). Ang shortcut naman na Pinas ay magiging Finas na maaaring maintihan ng mga dayuhan bilang tawag sa mga babaeng Pilipino at hindi bilang isang bansa. Iilan lamang iyan sa mga kumakalat na biro ng mga Pilipinong labag sa panukalang ito. Nagsilabasan ang samu’t saring pahayag tungkol sa pagtutol ng ibang mamamayan ng Pilipinas sa maaaring pagpalit ng pangalan nito. “Ang salitang Filipinas ay tila napakasosyal o katulad sa linggwahe ng mga “beki” o kung naaalala niyo pa si Facifica Falayfay? Ang mahirap na pagsambit ng salitang Filipinas ay maaaring
maging sanhi ng turn off ng iba pa nating kapwa Pilipino,” pahayag ni Zeus Salazar na siyang hindi sang-ayon sa gustong maganap ng KWF. Wika naman ni Dr. Lakandupil Garcia ng Pambansang Samahan ng Linggwistika at Literaturang Filipino, “Ang pagpapalit ng Pilipinas sa Filipinas ay nagpapakitang paurong ang ating kilos dahil sa muli pa nating binabalikan ang nakaraan o ang panahong Espanya pa ang may hawak ng Pilipinas. “Pasulong ang lakad ng lahat ng bansang maunlad habang ang kilos na ating ipinapalabas ay paurong gayong hindi na tayo sakop ng Espanya,” dagdag pa niya. “Kahit sa pagtawag man lamang sa ating mga sarili ay hindi pa tayo magkaisa,” wika ni Virgilio Almario, dating Dean ng University of the Philippines College of Arts and Letters. Ang magandang maidudulot ng pagpapalit ng Pilipinas ng Filipinas ay ang pagpapakita na tayong mga Pilipino ay bukas sa anumang pagbabago. Malay natin magustuhan rin natin ito sa bandang huli. Paano natin malalaman kung hindi natin ito susubukan? Ngunit mapapansin din na mahihirapang baguhin ang nakaugaliang gawi sa pagtawag ng Pilipinas. Matatagalan pa bago masanay ang mga Pilipino kung sakaling ipatupad man ang babagong ito. Juan, nasa kamay mo na ang desisyon.
Volume LIX Number 2 • October 11, 2013
“Sang-ayon sa dahilang ang letrang F ay dati nang katutubong titik ng ilang grupong etnolingguistiko sa bansa. Ang ating konstitusyon ay nagsasaad na sa patuloy na intelektwalisasyon ng Wikang Pambansa, dapat. Suyurin muna ang katutubong Wika nang masinsinan. Dagdag pa, ang pagpapalit ng Pilipinas patungong Filipinas ay sa rason na upang makilala ang Filipinas sa pandaigdigang saklaw at sinasang-ayunan ko ang Pambansang Alagad na si Rio Alma sa kanyang panukala.” Erwin Sustento, Ph.D., Propesor sa Filipino ng College of Education at Graduate School 2008 Gawad Balagtas Para sa Pinakamahusay na Guro sa Filipino sa Buong Pilipinas
Titik ‘F’ o Titik ‘P’ itinala ni christine joy a. saber
Nonsense! Why invest more time on that insignificant change? Nilida T. Orquinaza, Ed. D., Chair ng Languages Department
Hindi ako sumasang-ayon dahil kahit moderno na ang panahon ngayon at malaki ang impluwensiya ng intelektwalisasyon ay dapat maging konkreto tayo kung ano ang dapat. Ronamae Camiña, Propesor sa Filipino
Hindi, kasi una sa lahat nakasanayan na natin ang P kaysa sa F. Ano ang punto ng pagpapalit ng P sa F dahil hindi naman ito makakapagbigay benepisyo sa mga problema ng Pilipinas? Zimri Siozan, Presidente ng USA Student Council
Hindi, kasi nakasanayan na ng mga Pilipino ang salitang Pilipinas. Dagdag pa, hindi ito magandang pakinggan tulad na lamang ng Finoy mula sa Pinoy kapag naisakatuparan nga ang layuning ito.
Hindi, kasi bakit pa ito papalitan. Ano ang mga dahilan? Maghihirap ba ang ating relasyon sa Pandaigdigang Komunidad at hindi magiging maganda ang imahe ng bansa kung hindi babaguhin ang pangalang Pilipinas? Mahina ba ang ating ‘contention’ bakit kailangang pumasok sa ganitong kasunduan?
Patrice Rose Quiachon, BS Nursing 4-B
Francis Gil Mercurio, AB Political Science 4
Hindi ako sumasang-ayon kasi ito na ang kinalakihan ng nakararaming Pilipino at isa pa, mas mahirap sambitin ang mga salitang nagsisimula sa letrang F kaysa P.
Naniniwala ako na ang pagpapalit ng Pilipinas sa Filipinas ay hindi kanais-nais na hakbang patungo sa ikakabuti ng ating bansa. Ang ibinigay na karangalan at tatak ng Pilipinas ay huwag dapat ipagkait at palitan pa sapagkat ito ay nagbibigay ng mahigit na paalala at sentimental na kahalagahan sa ating mga Pilipino.
Amelia Vieve Lopez, BM Major in Piano-4
Paul Renz Jison, BS Pharmacy 4-A
Hindi, kasi mahirap ng palitan ang nakasanayan ng nakararaming Pilipino. Bea Buaron, BEEd Major in Pre-school 4-1
Jennifer Jeanette Cembrano, BS Interior Design 4 Hindi ako sang-ayon kasi unang-una hindi naman dapat pinoproblema ang mga isyung katulad nito. Nakasanayan na natin na gamitin ang salitang ‘Pilipino’ bilang pantawag sa taong nakatira sa Pilipinas. Marahil mas maganda kung pagtuonan na lamang ng pansin ng pamahalaan ang paglulunsad ng mga programa na makakabuti at makapagpapalago sa ekonomiya ng ating bansa. Kailan pa kaya makakamtan ang minimithing pagbabago? Ganito ba ang pagtahak sa matuwid na daan?
Hindi, kasi nakasayan na ng mga Pilipino ang Pilipinas at mas kilala na nasa P ito kaysa sa F. Kapag pinalitan pa ito, mahabang proseso pa ang pagdadaanan at marami ang mga dapat palitan. Ibig sabihin ba nito ang UP magiging UF na? Ang Pinoy magigng Finoy na? Dagdag pa, bakit parang napakalaking isyu nito?
Ricardo Faria, Jr., BS Accountancy 4-1
Mark Anthony Velaño, Master in Special Education 1
usa pub PHOTOs / thongenn lanz b. patiam
Hindi, kasi parang hindi nagiging permanente. Para sa akin, mas importante ‘yung mismong bansa kaysa sa pangalan nito.
Spectacle Augustinian the
B7
The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin • Iloilo City, Philippines
Volume LIX Number 2 • October 11, 2013
Nothing like being dead
book review
I N S I D I O U S : C HA P T ER 2 MOV IE REVIEW By rochelle louise d. doromal
A book to inspire and warm your heart R E VIE W O N N ICK VUJICIC’S L IF E W ITHO UT L IM ITS By victoria jade v. estrada
insidious: CHAPTER 2 scene / film district
about the death of Elise and the possibility that her husband is to blame. Wanting to forget everything that had happened, Renai and her family moved to the house of Lorraine, played by Barbara Hershey. Renai starts to have paranormal experiences again. She tries to
they made a plan to put an end to all these. Unfortunately, they failed. With series of events and truths revealed, Renai and her family finally ended their turmoil. Elise’s colleagues continue their work and end up at Allison’s home, who had an
“Children should go and watch the movie with their parents.” ignore this as Josh assures her that everything is being done and that they wouldn’t be bothered anymore. Meanwhile, Lorraine, who believes that something is wrong, wanted to meet with Elise’s colleagues. The trio asked Carl, played by actor Steve Coulter, for help, and they discovered the truth behind all the happenings, so
By Jerson e. Elmido
By Jerson e. Elmido
By Jerson e. Elmido
accident. Elise walks towards Allison, and the last words from her mouth were “Oh my God.” Insidious 2, directed by James Wan, is a wonderful sequel to Insidious.The effects and plot are great. You can vividly identify its connection to its first movie episode and fully understand the reason behind everything that had happened. It
brings a mixture of anticipation and a feeling of enjoyable fear. The movie does not only gave that feeling of senseless scaring but rather heart-clenching and emotion-stirring. Insidious 2 is a movie worth watching with family, friends or alone, if you are brave enough to dare. This movie is for those who are looking for excitement and suspense and those with strong hearts. Children should go with their parents. For those who have watched the first movie, watching Insidious 2 will help them answer their questions even those they didn’t think of. Insidious 2 will clear all doubts and answer all questions left unresolved in Part I. Everyone will surely enjoy this movie. Even those who prefer romance or comedy would learn, or instantly, love it. Screaming your lungs out would be an enjoyable way of releasing stress and tension.
“Fitting in this world seems to be hard, and this situation saddens him. However, a turning point in his life lit his heart. It fueled up his faith once more in God. It is the same way as to Nick Vujicic. May we all be inspired with this extraordinary man who embraced pain and helped us realize that happiness comes in simple packages. “I do believe life has no limits. I want you to feel the same way about your life no matter what your challenges may be.” This is an excerpt from Nick Vujicic’s, Life Without Limits. If you feel like hope is nowhere to be found, then, this is a must read for you, a book that will certainly inspire and warm your heart.
random house, incorporated
What would you do if the person you love is not that person anymore? Not a mere changing of personality or perspective but rather a change of soul inside the body. A wife wanting a peaceful life for her family, and a husband who isn’t himself anymore is a combination that would lead to dilemma. A medium named Carl called for Elise Ranier to help in the case of Loraine Lambert’s son, Josh, who had been haunted every night by an old woman in his dreams and seen in his pictures. With the aid of the game ‘Hot or Cold’, Elise found the unwanted entity, got injured and decided to erase the memories of the young Josh for him to live a normal life. After 25 years, Renai Lambert, played by Rose Byrne, the wife of Josh Lambert, played by actor Patrick Wilson, finds herself under investigation
Unstoppable simply means being impossible to be hindered or prevented. But what does it take to be unstoppable? For Nick Vujicic, being one is about believing and achieving your dreams and having faith in God and His divine plan in your life. Millions of people around the world are familiar with Nick Vujicic, a Serbian-Australian evangelist and motivational speaker. He was born with tetra-amelia syndrome - a rare disorder characterized by the absence of all four limbs in the body. But it never served as a hindrance for Nick to live his life without limits. In his book entitled Life Without Limits, Nick reveals to the readers the stories of his disability and his emotional battle when he was still a child. He asked God to give him arms and legs. If God won’t grant his prayer, he would stop praising him definitely. He encountered difficulties when he was a teen and a young adult. He wondered if there is anyone in this whole wide world who is also experiencing pain just as he did. Fitting in this world seems to be hard, and this situation saddens him. However, a turning point in his life lit his heart. It fueled up his faith once more in God. It was when his mother showed him an article in a newspaper with a picture of a man dealing with severe disability. Nick has come to realize that despite his physical disability, he is still alive and well. He knew right there and then that there are also people who are experiencing the same pain as his, maybe much more painful than how he feels. At that moment onwards, Nick embraced his lack of limbs. The challenges he experienced have not kept him from moving forward and travelling around the world, inspiring and touching other people’s lives. Does life limit us or are we putting the limits and restrain ourselves from achieving our dreams? We all have certain challenges encountered in our lives that ebb away our faith in ourselves, in life and in God. There are moments and situations in our life that severely impales us emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Thus, it leaves us hopeless and discouraged. Everything happens for a reason no matter what the reason may be. It may sound absurd, but if we take the time to understand and view every situation in a different angle maybe then we’d realize that life is not as bad as how we think it is. We make mistakes again and again but that doesn’t mean we aren’t entitled for second chances. We all deserve second chances, even a third or a fourth. Life is not only full of joy or full of pain; it’s a mixture of sugar and spices. You can’t enjoy something if it’s just utterly sweet nor appreciate it if it’s too spicy. Everything must harmonize in order for us to understand what life truly is.
Panorama Augustinian the
The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin • Iloilo City, Philippines
Volume LIX Number 2 • October 11, 2013
usa pub PHOTOs / thongenn lanz b. patiam, mara elaiza a. flores, and mary johsyen e. pabalinas
Beyond Perspective by Mary Johsyen E. Pabalinas
Everything we see, feel, touch and imagine are all seem to be simple. Those things that are often thought as nothing can be magically turned into a masterpiece. As we had our walk around the University of San Agustin to look for perspective, we were challenged to find the most unusual things left unseen by the students. We started with the landscape near the front gate and ended at the football field of the University. We were able to view each object that we had taken as each of them conveys meaning. These objects which are common in our eyes can be interesting when distinguished.