The Augustinian, May 2015 (News Fold)

AugustiniAn the

R e s p o N s i V e • D e V e l o p M e N ta l • R e s e a R C h - b a s e D

Volume LXI Number 3 • May 12, 2015

The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin • Iloilo City, Philippines

SPECIAL REPORT

NEWS

usA, top Performing school in Medtech board exam

Clamor for Power: A review on usAsC election

Article at Page A2

SPORTS

Augustinians champ nat’l dance sports tilt Article at Page A8

Article at Page A6

Augustinians add topnotchers list, continues

A Legacy of excellent education endures

by RoCHELLE LoUISE D. DoRomAL

Succeeding, the University of San Agustin had put its name in the lime light of board results as it remained to produce three topnotchers in the recent licensure examinations.

Gerardo Malayo and Geraldine Au, both from the College of Nursing, placed ninth and tenth respectively in the November 2014 Nursing Licensure Examinations.

“The mentorship of our clinical instructors and being enrolled at the USA Review Center contributed a lot on my preparations for the NLE. It is so overwhelming to be one of the top notchers. I’m so privileged to give honor to my beloved university,” Malayo stated.

Malayo garnered an 85.00 percentage rating while Au reaped an 84.80 percent average.

In addition, the College of Nursing placed tenth, out of 481 nursing institutions, in the top performing schools recognized by the Professional

Regulation Commission (PRC) with an over-all passing performance of 92.26% visà-vis the national passing rate which is 57.29% during the said examination.

“We will always carry you in our hearts and in our prayers with joy as you scale greater heights , touch hearts and transform lives as Augustinian nurses,” Loiue P. Hijalda, Dean of the College of Nursing extended his gratitude in an article published in the University website.

Meanwhile, Claire Palma ranked eighth in the January 2015 Pharmacist Licensure Examination with a 90.55 percentage rating.

“If you believe on

IN TIME. The Dr. Edgar “Injap” Sia II Building is now on its final phase of construction. This structureis just in time to cater the students who will enroll in the short term and continuing education courses which the University plans to offer in the next school year. (usa pub photo / JOHN ELMER J. BALAN)

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File photos / YEARNOOK OFFICE

‘Mirror’ receives nat’l grandslam title

by RoCHELLE LoUISE D. DoRomAL

AU

PALMA

MALAYO

University confers fourth female professor

by KRISTIN JoSEFF R. GAGAJENA

The University of San Agustin conferred its fourth female professor in the person of Dr. Regina Aileen May V. Vergara, Ph. D, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences last March at the Auditorium, Urdaneta Hall.

Vergara followed Dr. Josefa C. Castro, former Dean of the Teacher’s College (now College of Education) who was conferred in 1992, Dr. Felicisima T. Campos, former Dean of the same college in 1995 and Dr. Amorita C. Rabuco, former dean of the College of Arts and Sciences who received the title on 2009.

FINALLY. Dr. Regina Aileen may V. Vergara Ph. D ( fourth from the left) receives her title as a Professor from the Board of Trustees of the university during the conferment ceremony. (usa pub photo / shaLayNe G. deL pILar)

When interviewed by The Augustinian, Vergara shared, “I didn’t dream of this; I do what I need with no aspirations because if you do things while aspiring, you begin to lose focus.

What I can say is that I’m very curious so I think that is one qualification. Another is focus which is not very easy. When you look at it, sometimes you think its glory but it isn’t; it’s hard work. I never focused on glory. I just focused on my work.”

Fr. Rommel Par, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, stated that the criteria for conferment to full professor are a doctorate degree or its equivalent, engagement in extensive and continuous scholarly work and research, at least 10 years full-time teaching experience or its equivalent and two years residence in CAS DEAN Page A3

The Augustinian Mirror, the official student magazine of the University obtained its third national title as the “Best Magazine” during the comeback of the 4th National Campus Press Awards and 10th Spectrum fellowship at Mambucal Resort, Negros Occidental, February 20-22.

Aside from receiving the grand slam label, Mirror also bagged 3rd Place as Best Magazine Cover Design and Best Magazine Layout.

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CHAMPION PRODUCTS. With the dynamic skills and combined efforts of the staff, this issue of the augustinian Mirror and irong-irong win the judges choice in the nationals. (usa pub photo / JOHN ELMER J. BALAN)

brick Campaign hits p1M pledges

by RoCHELLE LoUISE D. DoRomAL

As of February 2015, the Philantropic Office has raised over 366 pledges amounting to P1,155,500 and has received P182,500 and $1,160 from various donors for “The Raise to 110M: Building the University Brick by Brick” project which serves as the endowment fund for Scholarship, one of the University’s Seven Advocacies.

“With brick values ranging from Php2,000-10,000, even students can become donors in their own right and be of help to our scholars. We are pleased to have received a

QUICK FACTS ON BRICKS 46,370 bricks of various colors and sizes were ordered from hK stone Craft trading. the total cost of the bricks for this project amounted to 4,669,725php .

the plaza de san agustin floor plan forming the shape of a red and gold bursting sun around st. augustine statue the blazing sun symbolizes the augustinian’s burning desire for truth and wisdom, as the sun’s rays depict the university’s dream of proving for a brighter tomorrow for all our existing and future scholars.

apart from donating to this project, interested donors can give directly to the usa scholarhsip trust Fund by depositing to our account under usa sCholaRship tRust FuND with account No. 001770170950.

BRICK Page A3

we have worldwide reach. Visit our website anytime, anywhere at WWW.USA-PUB.BLOGSPOT.COM

IN SOCIAL MEDIA

f USA Publications - Official Page t @USA_Pub

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Augustinian

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Volume LXI Number 3 • May 12, 2015

USALT is TAYO Awardee 2015 USA, Top Performing School in MedTech Board Exam

by Joyce Gem CaÑete

With an aim to provide a source of happiness and hope, especially to the children, after the Typhoon Yolanda stroked the northern part of Iloilo, the University of San Agustin Little Theater shared the victory as one of the Ten Accomplished Youth Organization (TAYO) in the country, February 24.

USALT, under the directorship of Eric Divinagracia produced “Project imagine|a|nation,”a series of theater acts, gained recognition from the regional to the national level of the selection process through their effective and socially relevant action on the impact of the typhoon in various localities in Panay.

“Ron (Matthews Espinosa), USALT alumnus and former USALT Alderman prepared the presentation till the last minute, getting all the needed information in without sacrificing the narrative of how the Ilonggo people stand together to challenge the world’s strongest typhoon. Part of the story is USALT’s creative work reflect, reassure and reach out after the storm,” Divinagracia quoted.

Together with the University’s medical help and relief goods, “Project imagine|a|nation,” composed of three plays (Voices After the Storm, Basura Busters and imagine|a|nation,) was staged in about 27 runs on the calamity areas of Lemery and San Dionisio, local and national conferences and arts festivals and University events, to more than 11,000 viewers.

In his speech after the ceremony, President Benigno Aquino III commended the winners saying “Kinikilalal [natin] ang ambag ng kabataan sa pagtugon sa suliranin ng lipunan. Kasama ang sambayanan, nagpapasalamat ako sa dedikasyon at pagsisikap ninyong ipagpatuloy ang makabuluhang mga adbokasiya.”

On its 12th year, TAYO awardees also include a group converting agricultural waste to energy, a sorority conducting breast milk activities and a Red Cross junior team that came up with an eco-friendly rescue boat.

It was the second time that the University of San Agustin had its TAYO finalist; first was the SIGMA CHI Fraternity and MU SIGMA PHI Sorority.

MODERN EQUIPMEMNTS. Medical Technology students of the university watch their specimens using the newly purchased microscopes of the university. This innovation molds the students to be competitive in their chosen field. (USA PUB PHOTO/ MARY

JOHSYEN E. PABALINAS)

by Joyce Gem CaÑete

University of San Agustin is named as the top performing school by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) during the March 2015 Medical Technology Board Examination with a passing

percentage of 94.37%, surpassing the national passing rate of 73%.

The University produced 67 board passers out of its 71 takers and was able to outdo Our Lady of Fatima UniversityAntipolo City, Far Eastern University-Manila, Lyceum of the Philippines-Batangas,

Centro Escolar UniversityManila and the other 84 schools.

“The college has been very keen in producing competent medical technology professions,” Dean Zesil Gay Gelle of College of Pharmacy and Medical Technology said, adding, “I am very glad and

thankful that the Medical Technology program of CPMT performed well once again.”

The University has also placed 7th during the Sept 2014 Medical Technology Board Exam while 2nd during the March 2014 with passing percentages 96.59% and 86%, respectively.

“It is the quality of students coming in into your department and the very stringent retention policy that led to such result. I also believe that one of the secrets would be the faculty. It is important that they should be competent. The key to success to any program or to any college is how the students were taught in the four [school] years,” Associate VP for Academic Affairs Sofia Cosette P. Monteblanco said.

Dean Gelle also stated that the College hopes to maintain its good practices and to look into the aspects that need improvements to come up with interventions that will enhance the instruction and training of its students.

“Everybody is proud that the CPMT is now in the national focus because of topping,” MEDTECH BOARD Page A3

Pen and Ink hailed ‘Most Outstanding Publication’

by EDCEL B. FAJUTAG

FOR THEM. Ron Matthews Espinosa shares their project description among the judges of the TAYO. His active participation as the representative of USALT made them as one of the nation’s finalist. (File photo / tayo)

Augustinian nurses prevail at international conference

by AIMEE ANDREA D. GAJE

With the theme “Changing Healthcare Systems: Opportunities in Nursing Practice and Leadership”, Augustinian nursing students bagged awards in the 3rd International Collaborative Conference 2015 held at Kapis Mansions, Roxas City,Capiz, January 22-23.

Coached by Dr. Estelita de la Cruz, a faculty in the College of Nursing, Geraldine Malayo and Clarizza Palencia, both in their fourth year, placed first and awarded as Best Poster for their works on the topic “Holistic and End of Life Care.” Also, Myla Rodriguez and Sherry Mae Onday, last year’s graduates of the said college were as well finalists in the said event who were coached by Louie P. Hijalda, Dean, College of Nursing.

“The International Collaborative Conference is a national competition wherein each school was encouraged to submit abstracts, be it from faculty or students. I’m very happy and honored considering the fact that it’s really the first time our college won an international competition conducted and facilitated by the Philippine Nurses Association of America Foundation,” Hijalda said.

When it comes to the preparation, Hijalda expressed that “we talked to them and prepared them especially when it comes to their presentation and the question & answer portion.”

The two teams from the College of Nursing beat more or less 200 competitors from various universities and colleges around the country.

“We are planning to join the conference again the next time around. We will be more prepared in terms of our research presentation and abstracts, and we are also going to participate in the Faculty category.” Hijalda concluded.

The said event was organized and facilitated by the Philippine Nurses Association of America Foundation, Inc. and Filamer Christian University’s College of Nursing. The conference is an event that happens only once every two years.

The Department of Architecture publication, Pen and Ink, was awarded as the Most Outstanding Publication of the year during the SanAg Campus Press Awards 2015 held at Nursing Review Center A, February 22.

Pen and Ink garnered the highest accumulated score in the special awards, individual special awards and individual on-the-spot journalistic contest besting other four departmental publications.

“We both draw and write.

I think that’s one beautiful difference. I think that helped us won,” Joshua Abraham Belita, Editor-in-Chief of Pen and Ink shared their secret.

With the theme “NOW: New Trends, Overview of Designs and World’s Breakthroughs,” the magazine won Best Publication Entry,

Best Editorial Page, Best Filipino Page and Best Page Design.

“I noticed that they improve the over-all quality of their magazine this year. More than their artists, they have as well very good writers. It’s a combination. That helped them won,” Joel Sastrillo, Editorin-Chief, USA Publications expressed.

Other awards received by the Pen and Ink are as follows: Individual Special Awards - Herod Montiel, Best Editorial Cartoonist, Kristine Joy Panizales, Best Filipino Writer, Vane Irish Escaro, Best Columnist and Joshua Abraham Belita, Best Development Communications Writer.

Montiel also won first place in Individual-on-the-Spot Contest.

Last year’s champion ‘The Pharmakeia’ from the College of Pharmacy and Medical Technology placed only second this year while ‘The Artian’ form the College of Arts and Sciences

ranked third respectively.

Now on its seventh year, the USA Publications through the SanAg Campus Press

awards continue to highlight the journalistic competence of student journalists in the university.

DEFENDING CHAMPION. Herod Montiel, staff of the Pen and Ink draws his editorial cartoon entry during the SanAg Campus Press Awards. His drawing lead him to win as the “Best Editorial Cartoonist,” following his last year’s triumph. (usa pub

photo / mary johsyen e. pabalinas)

28 houses donated for Yolanda victims

by ED

Serving as a collective aid to the victims of Typhoon Yolanda, the Task Force Augustinian CARES (Calamity Action Response Efforts and Services) under Social Advocacy and Community Engagement

Office of the University provided shelter to28 families in Lemery, Iloilo.

Barangay Nasapahan and Dalipe in the said town evenly distributed the donation with 14 houses each.

“The area of every house is 40 square meters in foot print, with two bedrooms in the

BLESS BE THY HOME. Fr. Donato Ellezar, OSA blesses the newly constructed house donated by the University to the victims of the typhoon in Barnggay Nasapahan, Lemery, Iloilo. (USA PUB PHOTOS/ JOEL S. SASTRILLO)

second floor. If totally finished, the construction would amount to Php 150,000.00 per shelter,”Arch. Regina Falconite, the one who designed the house shared to the Augustinian.

She further added, “since the total budget is only 1.3 million pesos and it should be divided into 28 houses, only Php 50,000.00 worth of materials were allocated to each family. The labor would be in ‘bayanihan system’ among the beneficiaries.”

With the involvement of student volunteers from the College of Engineering and Architecture, especially from the Architecture Department, the activity started last May 2014 and ended on January 2015.

“The students learned a lot from the actual construction.

We went there every two weeks and had stayed overnight to layout and helped in building the houses,” Falconite expressed.

To Ma. Sharmaine Barretto, a BS Architecture 5 student who

volunteered in the said activity shared that “the best feeling was to see them happy because they have a home to call. We were able to use our learnings in school to help these people.”

Falconite also spoke that, “we enjoyed working rain or shine and traveling through single motorcycle from Barangay Nasapahan to Barangay Dalipe,” adding “unconsciously, we became a part of their community who worked hand in hand to lift them from the effects of Yolanda.”

The amount used in the construction were donations from USA Academic Community and Alumni through the Philanthropic Office during the relief drive that started on November 13, 2013.

Aside from this [donation of houses], Task Force Augustinian CARES provided as well other interventions and assistance to the victims of typhoon such as relief operation, psychological first aid, medical mission and many more.

Augustinian

‘Partido Agila’ assumes position; landslide victory recorded

by Joy

MABILOG

After a one year hiatus, ‘Partido Agila’ the dominant party in the University, will lead the studentry again next academic year later winning the student council election with a huge margin on casted votes against the “Agustinian Students Alliance Party (ASAP)” last March 10.

Lead by Sheen Marie

Mabilog, the elected president, ‘Partido Agila’ dominated the council’s position from President to Press Relation Officers.

According to Mabilog, she did not expect that her party would claim all the officers’ spots.

“Our preparation was very short. We were given only a little time to campaign (both parties). We could not imagine that the result would favor our parties. But anyways, thanks to students who believed in us,” Mabilog shared with gratitude in an interview with The Augustinian.

Sunny Lasala, the current student council adviser, said that it was the first time in the history of student council elections where a party had a landslide victory as far as he can remember.

“The (student council) election was of great experience for both the candidates because they had exercised their skills and abilities to let the students select the best officers,” expressed Lasala.

Meanwhile, attached with the election were transparency and campaign issues that arise during the run of the said activity.

To Student Commission on Election (SCOMEL) chairman Rey Tabay, “issues are just issues unless they can show us concrete proof or evidence.”

“With regards to the campaign issues were the city mayor and the incumbent student council president campaigned for their chosen party, this issue was resolved internally between two parties with the aid of our campaign election rules and guidelines,”

Tabay clarified.

In the transparency side, Taby clearly explained that “two watchers from each party were distributed in each precinct,” adding “a list of winning candidates with their number of votes were put into formal writing and was signed by the Vice President for Academic Affairs. A tarpaulin showing the results of the election were posted in the side gate.”

After all, the elected student officers had their team building activity last April whereas Lasala is optimistic in expecting that “the new student council officers shall make a difference in the whole Augustinian community and that the activities must be in consonance with the university’s mission and vision.”

15 Latin Honors lead Commencement Exercises

By Gizelle Anne D. Villa

As the year of ‘Heartwork’ closes, 15 students with Latin Honors head the 107th Commencement Exercises of the University last April 18 at the USA Football Field.

Dominating the list are Bachelor of Science in Accountancy department with six Cum Laude: Nelson Carisma, Jr., Jellie Joy Dumancas, Ruthchen Mirasol , Anicel Santisteban, Keith Vincent Trimañez, and Ojay Gonzales; Angelie Maguad, Clifford Rafol and Krisna Sarmon, all from Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Mary Grace Alviar and Sharmaine Geroy from Bachelor of Science in Accounting Technology

TOPNOTCHERS Page A1

something, why not believe in yourself? No one could tell you what you can or cannot do. If you just love what you’re doing and you do your best, it would be enough to give in yourself to a challenge. If it doesn’t challenge you, then it doesn’t change you,” Palma shared to the Augustinian.

Palma, aside from being the 40th board topnotchers produced by the College of Pharmacy and Technology, she is also the only examinee from the Visayas to have made it in the list.

Zezil Gay E. Gelle, Dean of the College of Pharmacy and Medical Technology expressed

MIRROR Page A1

“I was totally relieved.

I cannot deny that I really want the Publications to get a national grand slam title. Considering that the competition was already tight with the best schools in Manila also joining, the win was unexpected but well-deserved,” shared Ray Adrian Macalalag, former Editor-in-Chief of the USA Publications.

In the same competition, Irong-irong, the Literary Journal of the University gained its first title as the Best Literary Journal and seized the second spot in Best Cover Design for Literary Journal category.

“I consider the victory

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Volume LXI Number 3 • May 12, 2015

received the same recognition as well.

Furthermore, Niña Danicka Nalayog, Bachelor of Elementary Education and Sunshine Dream Legario, Bachelor of Secondary Education were honoured as Cum Laude by the College of Education.

Kimberly Fullon, Bachelor of Science Information Technology and Kathy Villanueva, Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management rolled up the list.

“Nothing is really over until the moment you stop trying,” Fullon, the second Cum Laude of the IT Department shared in an interview with the Augustinian.

This year’s recipients of Latin Honors were increased by six as compared to last year. that “the college has delivered its mission of producing competent professionals who are working for the common good.”

The University earned a 72.05 percent passing rate against the national passing rate of 56.30 percent.

In an article published in the University website, Fr. Frederick C. Comendador, OSA, president of the University extended his appreciation to the colleges for performing well in different board examinations.

“The result is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our academic officials, the deans, the program chairs and our teachers,” Comendador concluded. as a fruit of all the hard work and sacrifices that the staff has been through. What made us win was the staff’s commitment towards quality control in our outputs,” said Jefferson Magbanua, moderator of the USA Publications.

More so, Joel Sastrillo, the current Editor-in-Chief of the USA Publications placed third in Best News Article for Individual Awards category.

The said event was organized by The Spectrum, the official student media corps of the University of St. La Salle, Bacolod City that aimed to ‘invite several of the country’s top personalities in the field of writing and journalism to share their expertise and experiences’.

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CAS Freshman champs Confraternity Quiz Bowl By marie julienne v. caballete

First year Bachelor of Science in Psychology student from the College of Arts and Sciences notched the top spot in Seekers’ Quest 2015, an annual quiz bowl sponsored by the SIGMA CHI Fraternity and MU SIGMA PHI Sorority held at Nursing Review Center A, March 3.

Edward Dominic Emilio beats other 17 contestants from the different colleges of the university after three-levels of questions which tackled general knowledge and current events.

“It was kind of funny, I only had one day of preparation for the quiz bowl. I just gave myself sometime to remember all the trivia’s I know. And that’s it,” Emilio admitted.

Following him were Jovie Cabangal and Daphne Divine Dy, both from the College of Pharmacy and Medical Technology, who won second and third placers respectively.

Meanwhile, Maria Mikaela Hontiveros, chairperson of the said event shared, “It was a success for everything went smoothly as planned,” adding “through this quiz bowl, we were able to uphold the one of the objectives of our organization which is academic excellence.”

Furthermore, Hontiveros shared that the purpose of the event was to acknowledge and award academic scholars through participating in the said quiz bowl.

With the theme, “Love for Knowledge: Essential to the Pathe of Learning,” Seekers’ Quest 2015 was chosen as of the qualifiers in the Augustinian Passion Project in the field of Academic Excellence.

“Though we did not win the said award, it does not mean that we are going to stop such activity of ours. Still, we are going to have it the next school year to maintain the goal of our organization. Next year, it will be a big event,” Hontiveros concluded.

The members of the SIGMA CHI Fraternity and MU SIGMA PHI Sorority were composed of all Augustinians coming from the different colleges of the University of San Agustin.

CMA triumphs St. Augustine’s Cup

by ROCHELLE LOUISE DOROMAL

AT LAST, SUCCESS. Sunshine Dream S. Legario, Bachelor of Secondary Education, one of the cum laudes, poses together with Fr. Frederrick C. Comemndador, OSA and her family after being given the recognition during the 107th commencement exercises. (usa pub photo / john Elmer j. balan)

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the University and teachers satisfying the criteria are recommended by the Human Relations Department to the Board of Trustees.

Among Vergara’s achievements that lead to her receiving full professorship are recognition as a Cum Laude during her Master’s and Doctorate Degrees in Chemistry at the University of Sto. Tomas, Manila in the year 2002 and 2012 respectively; receiver of the Plaque of Recognition “2013 In Touch with Excellence” given by the Science Education Institute of the Department of Science and Technology; recognition as an Alumni Achievement Awardee for Science and Technology awarded by the University of San Agustin in 2014; service as a resource speaker in a seminar on Toxic and Hazardous Wastes Management in 2013, and work experience as Chairperson of the Chemistry Department of the University from 2003 – 2008, Director

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Monteblanco remarked, “It will be a challenge to other colleges to also have a very good passing performance with board topnothers in their respective programs. For me it is an eye-opener, if you could make it, I think the other departments can also make it.”

The College of Pharmacy

of the Office of Research and Planning from 2013 – 2014, and Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences from 2014 – present.

“I am grateful to the University for noticing my efforts I put in to my work and I hope this will encourage other faculty members to do more research,” stated Vergara.

As part of the conferment ceremony, Vergara also had to give a professorial lecture entitled “NanoTech: Beyond What You See” where Aneline Tolones, Director of the University Center for Research and Publications, Engr.

Rowen Gelonga, Director of the Department of Science and Technology Region VI, and Lerma Paris, Faculty of the College of Pharmacy and Medical Technology served as reactors although Gelonga was unable to attend.

Vergara also preceded the first male professor Dr. Isidoro M. Cruz, former dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, who had achieved his full professorship in 2011.

of Medical Technology, considered as the flagship of the University, produced an 8th placer, Claire Erdaje Palma, during the Pharmacy Board Examination 2015 while 3rd placer, Genessa Agustin Buenafe, and 1st placer, Erika Jiline Mallari Jamandre, during the September 2014 and March 2014 Medtech Board Exams, respectively.

After 10 years of not having the title, the College of Management and Accountancy champed the final round in the annual St. Augustine’s Cup, an Inter-departmental Debate Series of the university, held at the Conference Room, Blanco Hall last February 13.

With the proposition, “Resolved that the Peace talk on the Draft Bangsamoro Basic law be scrapped,” CMA, on the negative side, defended their arguments against the former champion, the College of Arts and Sciences.

“The results of the debate was a dream come true for us all. I have been joining the debate for four years and this is the highest recognition I got,” says Jeremiah John Vardeleon, CMA debater, on an interview with the Augustinian.

Dr. Rowena Isidro, Ph. D. chairperson of the Social Science Department shared that “CMA is maybe destined to have the cup for in the first place, with BED not joining in the debate, they have won through default and the rest is history,” adding “considering that mostly of the CAS (debate) team members were neophytes, all colleges have anticipated and prepared for this event to take away the cup from CAS.” Kelly Binder, team captain of the CMA debating team won as Best Debater while Marie Julienne Caballete from the College of Arts and Sciences was awarded as Best Speaker.

“There were disappointments and doubts, however, we did respect the decision and we accepted the loss. I felt bad for my team because I was the only one left in our previous batch of debaters and I began to be skeptical over the preparations, but at the end of the day, we have to learn and give another shot next year. I’m glad that Julienne won as Best Speaker,” John Anderson Gedoque, CAS team captain, replied t to the Augustinian.

When asked about her words to the result, Isidro shared that “It’s time to spread the triumph and not be monopolized by CAS, they have won for three consecutive years. Debate knows no College. And now, it’s a big comeback to the CMA.” The Social Science Department of the University was the organizer of the debate series.

CHEERS WITH THE CUP. The College of Management and Accountancy proudly lifts the cup after winning the debate championship match. (usa pub photo

/ john Elmer j. balan)

Opinion Augustinian the

The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin • Iloilo City, Philippines

THE ONLY FOREVER

The world will always require ‘waiting’. A lot of it.

In our University, it seems like waiting is bigger than life itself. The usual scene of ladies queuing along the comfort rooms just to get their bladder emptied, the dismay upon realizing that you can’t get the projector or your signed excuse letter yet because the office is 10 minutes late from its working time, and even the services that come in a unit per second faster than the speed of a slug. I mean, if time is indeed priceless, maybe we are giving up a whole mansion of gold already.

Every student has his own version of OMG! during the April 10 enrolment for the summer class. Well in my personal experience, I had to wake up 7am in the morning to arm myself with patience and all the determination to have myself enrolled- just to find out that I had to kill time from 10am to 4pm just to pay my respective fees. This single crucial step has cost me half of day’s review class.

Apparently there are only

KIMCHI HYBRID joyce gem m. caÑete, Bsphar ‘15

joycecanete@gmail.com

“What happened to the discipline and respect that the Augustinians are known of?”

two working tellers and seeing that they’re doing their job well, except for the one who came in late after lunch break (there might be a valid reason for that one, though), I wish that there is somebody else who could’ve added to the manpower. What happened to the ‘work hand-inhand’ that the University seems to promote? If only two more windows were functioning, perhaps the lines wouldn’t be reaching the bookstore.

Plus, one of the things that

is noticeable is the disorganized enrolment process during that day. No one was there to direct the lines, forcing the students and the folks to attempt to squeeze into the gaps before them. Just when all hope is about to die out, I tried to ask the guard stationed in the front gate to help in facilitating but no one even checked us out.

I find it unnerving to see how one would try to outsmart the other by making a separate line, disregarding the others’ effort of

patiently waiting for four hours in their proper places. In the back of their minds, they know that what they were doing is bias, but they ignore that little voice just to get through the process. What happened to the discipline and respect that the Augustinians are known of? If only the students themselves instill a sense of self-control and sympathy, then perhaps there would be an evenhanded enrolment.

Lastly, I learned the value of being fair. Those who hanged around patiently are rewarded with their Registration Formsand a clean conscience. Yeah, the world requires waiting.

A lot of it. One could have a stronger bladder, a 10-minute delay tolerance or a little consideration for the natural trait of a slug to overcome any form of suffering without the need to give up a golden mansion or to point a finger.

But it is the extent of unity, discipline and respect that must be about the size of life itself.

Well, I am still waiting for the day that ‘waiting’ is not the only forever. Pardon the pun.

TO BE CONTINUED Umani ng iba’t-ibang kumento mula sa social media ang isang YouTube video ng isang ‘social experiment’ sa Italy kung saan nakapanayam ni Luca Ravone, isang mamamahayag sa isang Italian news company, ang ilang mga batang lalaking may edad pito hanggang labing-isa.

Sa nasabing video, ipinakilala ang isang batang babae sa mga batang lalaki kung saan tinanong ni Ravone kung ano ang nagustuhan nila sa sakanya. Matapos ang ilang mga katanugnan, hiniling ni Ravone sa mga batang lalaki na sampalin ang batang babae.

Tumanggi ang mga batang lalaki na gawin ang iniuutos ng mamaahayag. Nang tanungin kung bakit sila tumanggi, ito ang ilan sa kanilang naging mga pahayag: “She’s a girl, I can’t do it.” [Babae siya. Hindi koi yon magagawa.]. “First of all, I can’t hit her because she’s pretty, and she’s a girl.” [Una sa lahat, hindi ko siya pwedeng saktan dahil maganda siya, at isa siyang babae.]. “Why? Because I’m a man!” [Bakit? Dahil lalaki ako!].

Ang viral video na ito ay ginawa ng Fanpage.it upang bigyan ng atensyon ang lumalaking problema ng karahasan sa Italy sapagkat higit sa 31% ng mga kababaihan sa kanilang bansa sa pagitan ng edad na 16 at 70 ay biktima ng pisikal o sekswal na karahasan.

Gayunpaman, sinasabing ang pangunahing isyu kung bakit binabatikos ng ilang netizens ang video na ito ay dahil sa pagkakaugnay nito sa gender stereotypes.

Nakabasa ako ng ilang mga artikulo sa Internet tungkol sa ‘sexism’ o diskriminasyon base sa kasarian ng isang tao kung kaya’t naging interesado ako sa usaping ito.

Kung muling babasahin ang pahayag ng isa sa mga batang lalaki, sinasabing tumanggi siyang sampalin ang batang babae sapagkat “isa siyang babae” at dahil “maganda siya”. Ang pahayag na ito’y nagbibbigay rin ng isa pang kahulugan na nagsasabing

NAKAKAPAGPABAGABAG HANNAH GRACE S. TABA, BSBA ‘15

jesannyyap07@gmail.com

“Lahat ng tao, maging babae man o lalaki, bakla man o tomboy, bisexual o transgender, ay pantaypantay kung kaya’t lahat tayo ay kinakailang irespeto at bigyanghalaga.” ayos lang na saktan ang isang babae kung hindi ito maganda— paniniwalang maituturing na isang uri ng seksismo sapagkat kailan man ay hindi dapat saktan ang isang babae, hindi lang dahil maganda siya.

Isa ring popular na klase ng gender stereotypes ang paniniwala ng ilan na hindi dapat magpakita ng anumang bahid ng kahinaan ang mga kalalakihan ngunit ang totoo ay nakabubuti rin sa mga lalaki ang maglabas ng sama ng loob at umiyak paminsan-minsan.

At siyempre, hindi rin mawawala ang mga insultong nakukuha sa pagkakabilang sa ‘third sex’ o mas kilala bilang mga bakla, tomboy, bisexuals at transgenders.

Bagama’t madalas maging laman ng balita ang ilang mga kaso ng pang-aabuso sa mga taong kabilang sa third sex, kinilala ang Pilipinas bilang isa sa mga ‘gay-friendly’ na bansa sa buong mundo noong 2013.

Sa mundong ginagalawan natin ngayon kung saan tinuturuan ang mga kababaihan kung paano lumaban sa mga rapists imbes na pagbawalan ang mga kalalakihan na manghalay, kung saan naniniwala ang mga kababaihan na hindi maganda ang babaeng mataba

at kinakailangang maging seksi upang maituring na maganda, at kung saan naniniwala ang mga kalalakihan na nasosolusyunan ang kanilang mga problema kung sila’y maka-iskor sa babae, mahirap makakita ng pagbabago.

Gayunpaman, lahat ng tao, maging babae man o lalaki, bakla man o tomboy, bisexual o transgender, ay pantaypantay kung kaya’t lahat tayo ay kinakailang irespeto at bigyanghalaga.

Enero pa lamang noong sinabihan ako ng aming punong patnugot na gumawa ng isang pamamaalam para sa ikalawang isyu ng The Augustinian ngunit hindi ko alam kung bakit sa mismong araw ng nakatakdang pagpasa ay heto ako’t nakaharap sa aking kompyuter at nagsisimula pa lamang magbalangkas at magtipon ng mga ideyang maaari kong isulat.

Sa katunayan, mayroon akong dalawang palagay kung bakit ngayon ko lamang ito sinimulan. Una, ay dahil tinatamad ako. At ikalawa, ay dahil hindi ko pa kayang isipin ang buong ideya ng pamamaalam sa pamilyang

sumuporta at tumanggap sa akin simula pa lamang noong unang taon ko sa kolehiyo.

Nang una kong nakita ang poster ng USA Pub na nagsasabing nangangailangan sila ng mga manunulat, hindi na ako nagdalawang-isip at agad akong kumuha ng application form. Noong araw ng qualifying exam, parang nag-backflip ang atay ko noong makita ko ang higit sa sistentang aplikante na gaya ko ay umaasa ring matanggap. Kaya nama’y laking gulat ko nang makatanggap ako ng text mula kay Sir Jeff na isa ako sa mga top 25 na napili upang sumailalim sa susunod na bahagi ng pagsusulit. Halos maihi ako sa tuwa noong mga panahong iyon. At higit pa roon ang naramdaman ko noong malaman kong natanggap ako at naging isang ganap na senior writer. Hindi ko inakala na ang araw na iyon ang nagmarka ng simula ng pagbabago ng buhay ko.

Gaya na lamang ng inilathala ko sa aking blog noong nakaraang taon, matagal ko nang hilig ang pagsusulat at itinuturing ko na isang napakalaking biyaya ang pagkakatanggap sa akin sa USA Publications. Naging miyembro ako ng USA Pub noong ako’y nasa unang taon pa lamang sa kolehiyo ngunit kinailangan kong tumigil sa aking ikalawa at ikatlong taon upang mapagtuunan ko ng pansin ang aking pag-aaral. Subalit ang paghinto kong iyon marahil ang pinakanakakabagot na sandali ng aking buhay. Hinanap-hanap ko ang mga sermon nina Nong Ray at Nang Lely, ang mga pagpapatawa nina Nong James, Nang Tinay, Nong Louie at Nang Mia, ang mga kwentuhan namin ni Nong Jerson, at ang iba pang mga taong bumubuo sa USA Pub na itinuring ko nang mga tunay kong kapatid.

At sa pagtatapos ng mahalagang kabanatang ito ng aking buhay, hindi ko mapigilang magbalik-tanaw sa ilang mga alaala ko sa USA CONTINUED Page A7

Fallen 44 Is this country still worth dying for? Does being a Filipino still hold the same honour that our ancestors fought and died for? The fallen 44, our brave and courageous soldiers have only one word to say in response and that is a resounding “Yes” - giving up their lives in the line of duty. If individuals such as them continue to protect our welfare in this country, who are we to disrespect their works and their sacrifices by destroying what they sought to establish? Thus, it is within our responsibility to help seek justice for the untimely end of our brave combatants.

The first reason would be due to the current government’s incompetent unwillingness to openly cooperate with the matter.

From the moment the grievous news of the death of 44 Special Action Force police combatants, the President and his secretary denied accountability and knowledge about the event pointing the blame entirely on Former Chief Alan Purisima. It seems being the Chief Commander and the supreme leader of the constabulary and the armed forces of the country is not under the jurisdiction of our President Aquino. After all, no great leader would simply allow underlings to keep him in the dark on important events. Our president have neglected to welcome the arrival of our fallen heroes (because it was not in his schedule), instead, he was found attending the opening ceremony of a manufacturing plant in Laguna. He have washed his hands in national television telling that he was there on time during the necrological services for the heroes. It was a different event. If the President of the United States cancelled his other appointments just to welcome his fallen soldiers after a battle outside his nation, why can’t our own President be? We are hospitable, right?

Next reason is that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) are coddling the individuals who were responsibly knowledgeable about the true events that happened. With the government being sycophants

Augustinian the

The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin Iloilo City, Philippines editors-in-chief

managing editor

associate editors

literary editor art director photography editor circulation manager senior writers

staff writers

artist photojournalists

apprentice writers

moderator

Joel S. Sastrillo Joyce Gem M. Cañete

Stephanie Kay L. Urquiola Seulgi J. Han Gizelle Anna Villa Victoria Jade V. Estrada

Stephanie Kay L. Urquiola Gizelle Anna Villa Daryl S. Selerio John Elmer J. Balan Jordan C. Galache Rochelle Louise D. Doromal Edrylle G. Cofreros Resty John L. Palete Hannah Grace S. Taba Edcel B. Fajutag Kevin Jerrol C. Erebaren Frennie M. Tababa Kristin Joseff R. Gagajena Aimee Andrea D. Gaje Maria Clarisse T. Jaro Mara Elaiza A. Flores Mary Johsyen E. Pabalinas Shalayne G. Del Pilar Marie Julienne V. Caballette Jessa Madelein P. Gange Jefferson B. Magbanua

A4-A5 Volume LX Number 2 • October 20, 2014

TRUST ME NOT

EDITORIAL

of the rebel group, decisions that will be made would always favour the MILF so they may finally co-exist with us and the government in peace. Instead of accusing MILF for breaking their word on the peace treaty by defending the notorious terrorist and bomb expert Marwan and demanding reparations for the barbaric massacre of his 44 men, President Aquino instead gave out that speech about being “even”.

Justifying the martyrdom of his father as an excuse for the death of the 44 promising individuals.

Finally, the government is more interested on affairs in an attempt to divert the public unto other issues. Instead of pooling efforts in assisting the International Monitoring Team in investigating the incident to resolve the matter, they resurrected the issues versus Vice President Binay and his family. Is this really the appropriate time for that? Families are still grieving and most of the armed personnel are still disgruntled over the apparent treatment and oversight their comrades have been shown. More pressing matters needed to be addressed but instead of exacting justice, the government went back to the blame game on matters not significant to Mamasapano massacre in a blatant attempt of defacing potential rivals for the upcoming elections.

The government has been stellar so far in their progress with the investigation. The MILF are claiming innocence from the involvement.

The Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters are painted as main culprits of the said agenda. But who is really to blame? The government and their gross incompetence on handling the event and their response on this matter? The power hungry MILF rebels who seek control through a bid of peace? Or the megalomaniacal BIFF rebels insane enough to ally themselves to the savage, barbaric and inhuman Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists which puts into question BIFF’s capabilities in leading their group, much less an entire nation of Muslims that they are trying to promote. The answer actually is: “Nobody”. Nothing comes out of the blame game and snakes cannot run this country without pulling everybody down. That is why we need to make a decision as a people and as a nation for the betterment of this country. If justice is not given, we take the initiative to see that it will be done. If we have to drag and force President Aquino to do it, we shall!

SCAN, READ, AND GO GREEN! Scan this code using your mobile device to read digital copies of The Augustinian for free. This means that you have a copy of your own to read anytime, anywhere. we encourage you to recycle this newspaper.

the aUGUstINIaN is the official student newspaper of the University of San Agustin. It is published under the supervision of the USA Publications.

Comments, contributions, and suggestions may be sent to the editorial board.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without written permission and approval from the USA Publications and the respective authors, photographers, or artists.

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Last April 28, 2015 the Filipino nation exhaled in relief upon hearing the news that Mary Jane Veloso will be spared temporarily from the scheduled execution through a firing squad

by Indonesian authorities. With the #MaryJaneLives, netizens expressed gratitude and joy for Veloso and her family for the miracle that saved a life.

Mary Jane Veloso gets to see the sunshine next morning but she had to go through 5 years of darkness first. The mother of two only had desires for providing a better life for her family and that is probably the only sin she committed. When she returned from Dubai after her employer tried to rape her, Maria Kristina Sergio, daughter of her godfather and a trusted friend, held out her hand promising a job in Malaysia.

Upon arrival, Veloso was confronted with the news that the job promised to her was no long available and so, a new job in Indonesia was offered. Sergio was kind enough to provide a luggage with newly-bought clothes and even took care of plane tickets going to Indonesia.

A suspicious deed may have escaped Veloso’s eyes but the X-ray machine in the airport told the truth. As soon as her luggage was scanned, illegal items were found and after searching, 2.6 kg of heroin was found tucked inside. From then, Veloso has been trying to prove her innocence.

For a year and 3 months, she stared blankly at the walls of her prison cell while the Philippine government was busy with corruption scandals and what not. When the news about death sentence by a firing reached their ears, our government finally woke up and asked for executive clemency from then Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono.

The story reached its peak of misfortune when newly

KIMCHI HYBRID SEULGI J. HAN, BmLS ‘16

seulgihan@gmail.com

“We should be able to say no to a lollipop offered by even the kindest of strangers.” sworn Indonesian President Joko Widodo implemented strict policies on drug trafficking and rejected all clemency requests, Veloso’s included. A series of judicial reviews, pleas and appeals were continuously fired but nothing happened.

The hands that held rosaries and banners shook in fear as they held on to an ounce of hope for Veloso. A miracle was granted when Sergio turned herself in and Veloso was temporarily spared from the execution by a firing squad.

A fact that is hard to accept is that nowadays, there is no boundary to how far one can go for money. In this case, even putting a fellow Filipino in danger, leaving them in the hands of foreign authorities seem too easy. In a facebook post, Korean President Park Geun Hye shared that the reason why Filipinos are facing corruption and poverty is the lack of love for the country and their fellowmen. If Sergio had even a considerable love for Veloso even not as a friend or family member but as a fellow Filipino who, like her is striving to survive, putting her in the hands of foreigners would have pricked her conscience. As for

the government, they would have acted immediately as they would if their own family member was in a life and death situation.

However, that is the long term solution. In the mean time, it should be noted that trust in this world is as scarce as a 1.0 grade in a major subject. We should be able to say no to a lollipop offered by even the kindest of strangers.

With that said, let me make an awkward transition to my valediction as this may be my last article for the The Augustinian.

Writing has always been my escape and I’m immensely grateful for the USA Publications for granting me this opportunity to make something out of what I love. I started with nothing but pen and paper but now I’m leaving with more than what I can carry.

To Ma’am Confesor, Ma’am Cornel and Sir Jeff, thank you for molding me into a better writer. I hope I made you proud. To Nong Ray, Nang Joey, Nong Joel, Nang Tol, and Nong Jerson my moms and dads in the pub family, you guys taught me so much about writing and through your sacrifices and understanding I learned to think

of others first and it is an honor to have been your pub daughter.

I hope the legacy you built was carried well.

To Rochelle, Edrylle, Jade, and Stephanie, my girlfriends and forever pub buddies who shared moments of laughter and selfies during out-of-town trips and for taking care of me both in the pub and in academics.

Thank you girls.

To Mara, my food tasting buddy, thank you for your precise food critiquing every food review. To our MedTech manangs and manongs, we miss you guys and your noise.

Thank you for guiding us during our apprentice years and for helping us adjust to the pub family with your warm smiles.

To the new members of the pub, thank you for making my last year memorable. The exaggerated screams while watching horror movies, study sessions with 2-3 different music on, planning cheerdance routines hours before the contest, late night ghost stories and open forums, photoshoots, sharetea delivery, unlimited local ice cream, and everything else in between are moments that I will cherish. Keep writing!

To those aspiring to be the next pubpip, don’t hesitate.

I, too, was battling between joining the pub or not before but I’m more than glad I did. I started as an apprentice writer but the pub never gave up on me. With my passion and perseverance and their patience and mentorship I was able to climb up to being an Associate Editor. I hope this inspires you to thrive as well.

So finally it’s here, faster than I expected. Sad as it may be to leave you guys, my heart is full with love and memories from a family of 5 different parents. Please carry on the legacy of our former pubpips and take care of this shining gem, a family, a home.

LET THERE BE LIgHT Imagine yourself working to death every single day to support your family. You go at lengths for them, to the point of missing important events and, most of all, time with your loved ones. You do your best at an honest and decent job. And then, someone would have the audacity to come around the corner and insult your work.

Regina Ip, a legislator of Hong Kong, dubbed Filipina workers as “marriage wreckers.”

She retold how expatriate women complained to her how Filipina domestic helpers seduce the male employers. There may be instances of such a case, but generalizing and instantly pointing fingers towards Filipinas is a stereotypical and close-minded move. It was an unbecoming action for someone of her status and position.

When I first heard and read the news, I was appalled and disappointed. Yes, we do have the freedom of speech; of sharing our opinions. But, is it that difficult for a well-educated person to choose her words wisely? To actually think before she types?

There are three she had insulted: (1) Filipinas; (2) Domestic workers; and (3) women in general. Filipinas have been demeaned countless

NAKAKAPAG

RoCHELLE LoUISE D. DoRomAL, BmLS ‘16

bro.miah@yahoo.com

“Another point is how domestic workers are also labelled as the lowest of the low and accused of doing indecent acts, when they are mostly abused and taken for granted.” of times. Whether it be being insulted in foreign TV shows or in the internet, there will always be an offense thrown at us.

Why is it so easy to categorize and lay blame on us? Another point is how domestic workers are also labelled as the lowest of the low and accused of doing indecent acts, when they are mostly abused and taken for granted. Lastly, women are included by this issue as well.

We never hear complains about how male domestic helper seduce their female employers leading to the destruction of a marriage. It isn’t in the equality, but rather more on the justice.

Let us put aside the race or nationality for a minute. How could she, a woman, belittle and accuse a fellow woman without concrete evidence?

How could she easily say that a mistake of one is considered the

mistake of others?

USA Publications. I joined this family when I started college and every day I spent with the “pubpips” were, are and would always be days that I would be grateful for. What more can I say about my experience as a writer in the publication? I’ve grown.

I’ve learned. I’ve met many wonderful people who I would honestly never forget. And I am leaving with a heavy heart.

Three years. Three years of writing and being molded by the publication into who I am today as a writer and person. I learned to be brave enough to share my opinions; to inform every one of the truth. Basically, the USA Publications isn’t just a publication of writers and photographers doing their jobs in a mundane way. We’re a family. A family with ups and downs who face every hurdle together.

Now that I think about it, I am very fortunate that my mother pushed me to apply in the publication. From the shy, first year girl, I am now someone who is more confident. I couldn’t believe how far I’ve gone and now it’s the end of this journey. I have never been good with “goodbyes.” And, I think I would never be in favour of it.

So, now I say until next time.

SpecialReport Augustinian the

A6 Volume LXI Number 3 • May 12, 2015

The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin • Iloilo City, Philippines

* Inbox!

1RESPONSES

“In doing what we ought to, we deserve no praise because it is our duty.” – S t. Augustine of Hippo

By Stephanie Kay L. Urquiola and Resty John L. Palete usa pub PHOTO / john elmer j. balan

YOU HAVE JUST RECEIVED A NEW MESSAGE! Yes, that is right. In this edition, this year, the USA Publications have extended their efforts to interview the persons who were in authority to answer the issues you have shared in our Inbox. Through this, we promote an open communication between the students and the administration. All concerns were brought up by the staff to the persons concerned in a polite manner. We do hope that this innovation would bring something good in our community. Enjoy reading.

CLAMOR FOR POWER

YOU HAVE UNREAD MESSAGES IN YOUR INBOX * Nature’s Friend: The comfort rooms of University of San Agustin do not make me comfortable. ‘Pag tinatawag ka ng nature, nahihiya kang mag-CR kasi walang flush at walang tubig. Sana naman magkaroon ng magandang CR ang University!

We have been fixing the CRs but doors now are destroyed and full of vandalism. We have been addressing this problems but it’s a waste of time, of energy and of effort if we could still not maintain it.

As diligent student how could you keep, sustain and watch out for our school facilities?

- Fr Basilio Sugata-on, OSA * Unknown Material: Concerned lang ko sa mga maintenance personnel sang school especially sa nagalimpyo sang CR. Kaluoy man sa ila ka yang mga students kadamak, indi kabalo maglimpyo tapos nila gamit.

Ga reflect man ina sa itsura nila ah! Hihihi!

I will turn this back also to the students; our maintenance personnel are given cleaning materials but how could the students help in maintaining the cleanliness of our CRs? It’s not only the effort of the administration to clean up but also the students. - Fr Basilio Sugata-on, OSA * HotSilog: Gaklase man gid kami sa classroom nga may aircon, pero wala man ginapaandar. Biskan electric fan lang bala. Salamat gid ha.

It was already taken in consideration but sometimes we can’t avoid damages. Sometimes students abuse this.

They linger and stay at the classrooms even if they don’t have classes and some of them might not know how to use or operate our aircon units. We also schedule the cleaning of all aircons. Although, some students would insert their trash in our units which cause the dusty blow of air. - Fr Basilio Sugata-on, OSA * Swimmer Whiner: hambal nila pag2nd sem tapus na ang swimming pool. Manug tapus na ang klase, wala man na dyapun matapus.

With regard to the pool, we try our best to finish and utilize the pool before the semester ends but there are problems in relation with the contractor. It is not the part of the University that we do not address this, we have sent several letters concerning this matter. They have some reasons and if they will not follow what is written in the contract, then the University will find other contactors. - Fr Basilio Sugata-on, OSA * Girl On Fire: Ang FIRE EXIT sang FLD! Una ka pa mapatay sa stairs kesa sa sunog!

There is already plan proposal for that. They are going to renovate it for the college of law will be transferring there. Some Alumni from the College of Law are donating and will sponsor in renovate the building including the stairs. - Fr Basilio Sugata-on, OSA * Asthmatic: Ngaa kabaho sang aso sang sigarilyo kung magsaka ka sa Alumni Building? Hindi ko maributay kung ano ukon sin-o ang nagapanigarilyo dira. Five years ago, may baho na sang nasambit nga aso sang sigarilyo tapos subong amo man gihapon?

Our campus is a smoke-free camp. The concern here is not only in the Almuni building but also in some other buildings. If you saw something regarding with this, report it immediately. - Fr Basilio Sugata-on, OSA Got an issue to share? Perhaps, an opinion? Don’t be afraid to voice out. We don’t mind your grammar or language. As long as it can be understood. You can make a change by sharing to us your concerns. Let it be heard (or read) here in the Inbox. Send your message at our email, usa.publications@rocketmail.com or our Facebook page. You can also text us at 09283206395.

DISCLAIMER All words stated above are products of our readers’ freedom of expression.

These words, therefore, do not reflect the editorial position of the USA Publications and its individual staff members.

MABILOG

Student Council elections have always been a platform for student leaders to show and ask the students for the chance to prove their abilities. In the University of San Agustin and perhaps with every school, there are hundreds to thousands of students that come from different backgrounds, with different beliefs, different values, and different abilities, all coming together with different focuses in life. Student leaders are tasked with the responsibility to take the power given to them and use it to help bring together the student body.

The road to the task given to our chosen student leaders is anything but smooth; in this special report The Augustinian gathered feedback from the students on the Student Council elections and interviewed how the affected parties react to issues from what is deemed as the most controversial event this school year. Among the respondents were Rey Tabay, Chairman for Student Commission on Election (SCOMEL), Jeremiah Vardeleon, Incumbent Student Council President for S.Y. 2014-2015, Johnroy Sembrano, Presidential Candidate from Augustinian Students Alliance Party (ASAP), and Sheen Mabilog, Presidential Candidate from Partido Aguila.

Tally and Rally Troubles The student elections are organized by the SCOMEL whose officers are taken from each department’s college councils. As compared to last year’s tallying procedures which took place at the University’s outside courts, this year, the SCOMEL decided to assign precincts in every college and have its officers count the initial tally and hold the final tallying along with other colleges at the outside courts.

“We finished earlier this year, as far as I know. Having the tallying distributed among the colleges made for faster counting.” Tabay, Chairman of

SCOMEL, stated.

However, monitoring each precinct’s initial tally were said to be a toll on the poll watchers as some precincts were quite a distance from each other.

“The results may have been counted faster but it would have been easier to monitor if the counting were all done in just one place. You’re watching one precinct without knowing what’s happening at the other precincts. It would’ve been better to see what was happening, at the same time and place.” Sembrano commented.

Another issue is that during the grand rally, there were noticeably more students present as a memorandum providing for the suspension of morning classes and the requirement of attendance were circulated yet there were complaints of teachers still requiring students to attend their classes or to pass certain requirements.

Tabay said in an interview, “We could not control the influx of students going out during the grand rally because some would even show us text messages from their teachers telling them to show their text message to me to allow them to leave. In the first place, the memorandum was approved by the Admin and the Fathers allowing the students to be excused from their classes so this was one difficulty we faced during the elections.”

SEMBRANO

Loopholes and Lapses This year’s allotment for the campaign period was for one week only and requirements for candidates were said to be inconsistent with deadlines and guidelines constantly changing that caused delays.

“It leaves something to be desired because the first deadline was this day and then it was moved to another day. The requirements for candidates were also changed.

Yes, it is stated in the Student Council constitution that the SCOMEL has the right to make their own rules but the constant change resulted in constant meetings which led ultimately to delays with the campaign period but overall, they gave their very best so I would also like to congratulate them.”

Sembrano said.

Mabilog added, “Regarding the campaign period, short nga. As far as I know, the SCOMEL didn’t have a lot of time before the elections so everything was planned, I think, in under a week. For example, our tarpaulins were displayed for only a couple of days at the side gate. The time was short but it’s agreed that for all of us, we should have grace under pressure.”

The constant change in the rules and guidelines may have been out of the SCOMEL’s control as the constitution in itself already has loopholes.

“For an event like this, standardized rules are necessary. This is why I am proposing that the SC constitution be amended because the rules can’t just change every year depending on who’s leading it. I am recommending to the Fathers to change the constitution because these loopholes will become a breeding ground for irregularities.” Vardeleon related.

Mabilog also said that she

agrees that there are lapses with the constitution.

“The first time we met with the SCOMEL, we had to ask specifically what our limitations were [in terms of the rules of the campaign] as it wasn’t stated in the constitution. Even the past SC presidents are aware of these loopholes. I even said that if ever we won, we would propose a new constitution.”

She explained.

Voice gone too far?

What has made this election controversial is the strong media presence, and in this election’s case, the Tinig Estudyante. This is a Facebook page created anonymously where Augustinians can write what they love or hate about the University where revealing your identity becomes optional. Digital media is a very powerful tool and was felt strongly during the campaign period.

“Here in the University, we are brothers and sisters.

If you have a problem with your family, do you post it on the Internet? Fraternal charity calls you to settle it amongst yourselves! If we have a problem with our University, then only Augustinians should know about it. Trial by publicity is unfair. Our University was recognized even more so this year with promotions like the UNIGAMES and PRISAAP, but with this kind of talk, nasisira ang pangalan ng ating Unibersidad. ” Vardeleon said in reaction to the page’s numerous ‘complaints’ posts.

“There should always be media present during elections, of course but regulation should always be practiced. Fairness should also be kept in mind, and avoid bashing anyone.”

Sembrano commented.

Shame campaigns were CLAMOR Page A7

Augustinian

Sports

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Volume LXI Number 3 • May 12, 2015

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All Work and All Play

By Stephanie Kay L. Urquiola

“As the saying goes, ‘all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy; but all play and no work makes Jack a mere toy.’ What happens if Jack’s future depends on both work and play?”

On the list of priorities as a student, hard work is a trait no college student should ever be without. Complying with the professors’ requirements, memorizing endless terms for the pop quiz your Professor might give tomorrow, spending your every free moment at the library working on your research paper— this requires dedication with no room for procrastination.

However, when you’re a college student on an athletic scholarship where your practices start at 6 pm and upcoming games are

added onto your plate, how will you be able to focus on only one area that both require your full attention— work and play?

Irrol Francis Payba, Psychology Football “My position then was a defender. I really loved playing football so I made a way to make it possible for me to balance my studies at the same time.” Payba, a Psychology major, relates.

The life of an athlete can be very demanding, commitments have to be managed effectively

to ensure that one’s focus does not waver from what needs to be accomplished. “College is different from high school, especially when it comes to your teachers. You have to really adjust if there are conflicts between school games and schoolwork. Some teachers are strict when it comes to asking permission to be excused from their classes but that’s understandable as we are students first.”

Donna Jean Tube, Accounting Tech Basketball “Kung kaya ng lalaki, kaya din namin. [If guys can do it, then we can do it, too.]”

Donna Jean Tube, a sophomore student taking up Accounting Tech, is a point guard at the Women’s

PAYBA

Basketball Team where she has been a player since her Freshman Year. She points out that proper encouragement and motivation is one factor that has helped her with her struggles as an athlete and as a student.

“I tried out because someone encouraged me a couple of months ago. My cousins taught me to play and even when practice lets out for the weekend, I play even during my spare time.” However, Tube clarifies that her scholarship is what really keeps her moving.

“I sometimes miss classes pero make it a point to attend most of the time because my scholarship still rests on my grades.” Tube states.

Natasha Isabela Sasuman, Medical Laboratory Science

TUBE

Augustinian lady aces earn silver medal By rochelle louise d. doromal

Continuing to be one of the bests of the University in the field of sports, the Augustinian women tennis team landed second place in the National PRISAA held at Iloilo City last April 11.

“As our preparation for the nationals, we practiced on the court whole day daily for almost one month to build up our stamina and to plan our strategies as a team,” Danielle Aligaen, a first year tennis player shared during the interview.

It was apparent that being the host school, the team was motivated to win.

With the performance of the athletes after the event, Demosthenes Toledo, Sports CLAMOR Page A6

the talk of the school which is probably why not everyone was so quick to recognize it as an act of cyber-bullying especially for those who were the victims which included teachers, various school staff, and the students.

“There is a proper way of channeling this kind of power.

I am in favor of Tinig, I even encourage it because it’s a good forum and I’ve learned a lot of concerns regarding the University through this. I am only asking that it be regulated

Director of the University shared that “in order to improve our performance is to stage a lot of competitions to expose our athletes in real game situations.”

Though they notched silver in the national event, Aligaen expressed that they still lacked the required training due to busy class schedules.

“With the usual problem being said, we still trained hard and motivated to win because we represent our university and our region as well,” Aligaen added.

The Augustinian lady tennis players also won medals in other competitions this year such were: bronze medallist in University Games and gold medallist in Provincial and Regional PRISAA. and moderated. Many people seem to forget that the mothers and fathers of the victims can also read what you post and comment.” Vardeleon said.

The SC elections revealed personalities, agendas, motivations, and sides; the clamor for power is undeniable— everyone wants it. However, what the University of San Agustin is known for, and what the students would do well to remember, is that what makes Augustinians so great is not one person at the top but all of us combined. Viva San Agustin!

Basketball “I play to study and not the other way around.”

Natasha Isabela Sasuman, also a sophomore student taking up Medical Laboratory Science, relates how being a dedicated student of such a demanding course and being an athlete sometimes works out in her favor.

“I am motivated because basketball gets me through school, first of all. I play to study and not the other way around, always. Second, I take inspiration from other athletes who have already graduated with athletic scholarships. Most of all, basketball is fun. It’s really fun. My class load is usually full and I still need to study when I get home after practice so playing basketball is my stress reliever, when you look

As words of encouragement to all the athletes, Toledo voiced out that in order to win the

championship one must study hard, play hard and most of all to pray hard.

REWARDED. After hard trainings, the USA tennis team poses after notching medals in the different competitions (FILE photo / DANIELLE ALIGAEN)

BRICK Page A1

substantial number of donation coming from our Augustinian alumni in the United States of America, through the efforts of our University President Fr. Frederick C. Comendador, OSA, and USA Alumni Association President, Dr. Asuncion L. Faro,” Josefa Maria Castro, Marketing and Communications Assistant of USA Philantropic Office stated.

The said granite pavement was completed on the last week of February 2015, as scheduled; and the pathway is now open to

all pedestrians, to the exclusion of cars and all other motor vehicles to prevent damaging of bricks where the names of the donors will be engraved.

“There are still lots of things to be done in the plaza such as additional plants, drainage system, ground cover, and benches,” Fr. Jack Luna, OSA said, adding, “The gates [virtus et scientia] will be formally opened once the plaza is done.”

The said project forms a part of the Revenue Generators stipulated in Campus Master Plan 2053 which aims to

at it at a certain way.” Sasuman relates. She admits, however, that juggling everything can be tough especially during game season.

“We tend to miss quizzes due to our practices during game season and other conflicts but the teachers are very considerate. Athletes always keep in mind, however, that we will always be the ones to adjust and not the teachers.” Sasuman adds.

Students with athletic scholarships have a lot on their plate, yet most college students are juggling several other activities with their schoolwork; yet what makes college such a great experience is that it gives you a chance to discover your interests while still working on your future.

SASUMAN

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Pub. Hindi ko malilimutan ang mga ‘mini-concerts’ nina Nong Jerson, tol Joyce at Wil sa pub office. Gayon din ang mga simpleng salu-salo pagkatapos ng miting o tuwing mga school events. Ilan lamang iyan sa mga munting alaala na nailimbag sa kabanatang ito ng aking buhay na napakasarap babalikbalikan.

Sa aming mga tagapayo, Ma’am Confesor at Sir Jeff, salamat sa walang hanggang suporta at sa pag gabay sa amin.

Sa aming mga manong at manang lalo na kina Nong Ray, Nang Lely at Nong Jerson na nagbahagi ng kanilang mga panahon at kaalaman upang tulungan kaming mahasa ang aming mga abilidad at maging mga mahusay na manunulat, utang naming sainyo ang lahat.

Kay Nang Jhe, Ma’am Loi, at sa iba pang mga taong

pumayag na maitampok ang kanilang mga kwento sa aking mga artikulo, maraming salamat sa inyong pagtitiwala.

At sa mga ‘pub babies’, sana’y maipagpatuloy ninyo, kung hindi man higitan, ang mga parangal at pagkilalang nakamit ng mga naunang pubpips.

Naniniwala akong makakaya ninyong gawin ang anumang bagay basta’t nagtutulungan at nagkakaisa ang lahat. Nandito lang kami na handang tumulong at sumuporta sainyo. Kudos!

Subalit alam naman nating hindi nagtatapos ang isang libro sa isang kabanata. Sa katunayan, ang pagtatapos ng isang kabanata ay siya namang pagsisimula ng panibago. At kahit ilan pang mga kabanata ang maidagdag sa itinuturing kong ‘libro ng aking buhay’, paulit-ulit ko pa ring babalikan at sasariwain ang mga alaalang ating pinagsamahan. Maraming salamat!

achieve a modernized, standardized and sustainable university of academic excellence by the year 2053, the University of San Agustin’s centennial celebration as the First University in Western Visayas.

“There will be ample funds for the development of the facilities, quality of instruction, increase salary of the teachers attracting more competent teachers to the University,” Fr. Luna said, adding, “With this, students studying in the University will have quality education at an affordable

price; and with a good number of University scholars, we do not help the less privileged students but we are also helping the society in general.”

Ongoing and next projects to be finished as stipulated in the Campus Master Plan 2053 include the improvement of the Computer and Information Center, construction of Main Library and Study Center, USA Inn, Injap Building, Performing Arts Center and Student Mall, Nursing, Pharmacy and Medical Technology Building and Fr. Blanco Botanical Garden.

sports AugustiniAn the

Augustinian lady aces earn silver medal Article at Page A7

So Close, So Far

FLAUNT IT

thought to win, was just trying to impress them. While others adjudged that the issue was only a show off.

Listening to Pacquiao’s explanation on why he fought Mayweather still inside the ring was because “he does not want to disappoint the fans”, on which I think he did the opposite.

For us, Manny had two choices both before and after the fight. He had the chance to postpone the fight. In an interview with him, he said that

EDITORIAL revelation in different platforms of media. Some discussed that Pacman lied to them, the amount they paid were useless where an unhealthy athlete, whom they

he was given a questionnaire that asked him if he has an injury or not. He checked “No” because he was thinking of the people who had waited and paid for the event.

Oh well, fans could wait, if it is worth the wait. Who would like to see their bet fighting inside the boxing ring injured before he stepped in? Called by some as the battle of David (Pacquiao) and Goliath (Mayweather), who would expect that David, the underdog will win without his slingshot? In fact, a lot of fight nights, in different field of sports were postponed because of an injury suffered by the star.

Less words, less mistake.

Our “one armed wannabe hero” could have just shut his mouth after he had lost to Mayweather or just had said a fewer words on an international television about his injury, not to find someone to blame for his defeat. He should have get his treatment right after he wanted to prolong his boxing career or planned to have a rematch

with Mayweather, not to play under the limelight of sports news.

Manny Pacquiao may had a reason on why he revealed such injury late.

Some still may have stand on his corner but others choose to play on the other side. We cannot control the opinion of others. Not that we want to, this might lead for some people to disrespect him.

Sports is always a fact; there will always be a winner and a loser. And honesty should be brought by players in any field of game.

Whatever the result is, as long as you are true to yourself, people will respect you.

For Manny, he has still the people’s heart and we hope it will not change just because of this issue.

Augustinians champ nat’l dance sports tilt

by JESSA mADELEINE p. GANGE

With a home court advantage representing Western Visayas in the National PRISAA 2015, Augustinian pair won first place in the Dance Sports Competition (Latin American Category) at the USA Gymnasium last April 14.

Nicole Joyce Gepilango, third year Civil Engineering and Patrick Ivan Sa-ato, second year Pharmacy, danced out other 19 pairs from the different regions of the country in the said category.

“We did not expect to win. We just wanted an exciting competition.

Other contestants have also undergone cross-trainings and intensive rehearsals like us. It was a tough competition,” Gepilango shared.

From 20 pairs, only 12 were chosen to dance the Samba, Paso Doble, Cha Cha,

Rumba and Jive on the next round where the pair was called last by the announcer.

“We were afraid that we could not make it since the eleventh pair was called.

With fingers-cross, our joy was incomparable when our number was called to dance again on the next round,” Gepilango discussed when she was asked how she felt during the eliminations.

With flawless moves and perfect routines that impressed the judges inside the gymnasium, the pair made it to the top 6 and emerged as victorious in the end.

In the post event interview

by The Augustinian, Nicole expressed he gratitude to everyone who had helped them since ILOPRISAA. The pair was coached by Noemi Sumagaysay, faculty, Physical Education Department of the University.

WV medal tallies BACK TO BACK CHAMPION

2015 National PRISAA • Iloilo City, April 11-17 Tertiary Level

97 Gold medals 91 silver medals 72 bronze medals Secondary Level

122 Gold medals 70 silver medals 20 bronze medals ERRATUM

JUST MOVE IT. Patrick Ivan Sa-ato and Nicole joyce gepilango show their energetic dance moves to impress the judges in the National PRISAA dance sports competition (Latin category). (usa pub photo / shaLayNe G. deL pILar)

WV dribblers notches silver in Nat’l PRISAA

by JoEL S. SASTRILLo

Fell short by three points, the Western Visayas Basketball Women landed at second place after the CALABARZON team beat them in the championship game, 67-64, during the National PRISAA 2015 held at the USA Gymnasium last April 16.

Beginning in the first quarter, the CALABARZON region dominated the game against the home players.

It was only in the last two minutes of the fourth quarter when the score was tied at 58 all after Jovielou De Jesus’s, the team captain, perimeter shot got counted.

“I told my teammates that we should give our best no matter what happens. We have reached this post, we should get the championship. We have to do what we can and God will be there for us,” Jovielou

Article at Page A7

Volume LXI Number 3 • May 12, 2015

The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin • Iloilo City, Philippines

After the so tagged “Fight of the Century” where Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao tasted his sixth lost from Floyd “Money” Mayweather, Pacman cried foul for the result. In a postgame interview, he revealed that he was suffering from a shoulder injury while he was fighting “Money”. He shared that he was not given the chance by the Nevada Athletic Association to take care their disappointment on the “People’s Champ”

All work and all play

De Jesus, a Civil Engineering student of the University shared to The Augustinian.

Representing Western Visayas, De Jesus recognizes the effort of her teammates inside and outside of the University.

“We had only three weeks to prepare because some of our reinforcements were from Roxas and Bacolod. Glad we made it to finals,” she discussed.

Demosthenes Toledo, Sports Director of the University and also the coach of the Region six team expressed that “being the host school, his players were motivated to win. Our trainings involved hard exercise both in skills development and mental preparation.”

After a hiatus of five years, the home players have once again played in the championship.

With the result, De Jesus said that they were eager to grab the coveted title in Baguio next year.

In the Previous issue of The Augustinian Volume LX No. 2 in the article “Dance sports come back, CEA Rules,” Justine Allison Erenea and Jason Torres won as First Runners-up and not the mentioned individuals in the sports news. We are very sorry.

EFFATHA

JoEL S. SASTRILLo, BSCE ‘15

joelssastrillo@gmail.com

“It was simply just a Sunday �ight where we loved to watch during lunch.”

I am not really a boxing fan. I am fond of watching WWE even if its “scripted”. At least there, I can see action. But because, it was the “Fight of the Century,” I laid my back on our couch and watched the 12 round of running and hugging. I was not with the trend, I really saw it.

The termed “Fight of the Century”, “Fight of the Decade” for some, was expected to be a manly fight between two great boxers of the present. More than that, people must have watched them fought each other aggressively and probably, a knockout would be recorded. With the best boxers in our generation, Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao and Floyd “Money” Mayweather, there were a lot, supposedly, to watch for.

People have waited for this event to happen for years, yet, was that all?

The People’s Champ played aggressively, as he should do because he was the challenger, against the undefeated boxer, “Pretty Boy”. But had he really done enough to win the scorecard? As what we had observed, Manny had a lot of chances to throw a huge uppercut or a jab against Floyd yet he just stood and waited for the black guy to recover. Did he lost his killer instinct? For “Money,” he had practiced his dancing skills well. There is no doubt that he had memorized his dance steps with Pacquiao. Maybe, they have a dance practiced together before the fight. Aside from being expert in running, he truly loves Manny – giving him enough hugs while blowing him foul punches secretly. Did the judges saw that?

Undeniably, Mayweather has an advantage when it comes to reach against Pacquiao. It was seen many times during the fight when Manny was attempting to get inside Mayweather’s corner, he was caught off-guard inches before he could land a punch.

But was that enough? Their faces had not been touched, nothing changed after the fight. I won’t denied that for me as a first time viewer of Mayweather’s fights, he nailed the scorecard by saving himself through running. As per reviewed, it was really his bread and butter. For Manny’s camp, maybe they had prepared for it with alternatives. Surely, the way Manny fought Mayweather had won him the people’s heart but not the judges or the referee or the interviewer. Indeed, the action was brought by Manny while Floyd was exercising his running ability. There wasn’t a continuous exchange of punches between the two; if you count hugs, there were more.

I watched several Pacquiao fights these past years. As I observed, he used to leave a red face against his opponent even if he was taller than him. But that day, I did not see that he did. I saw chances but he did not get in. I knew most of us had seen that.

I knew too that Mayweather is a defensive player and that was his style. But to be termed that it was the “Fight of the Century,” he should have fought aggressively too. The fight was a proof why some would not coined him as the greatest boxer of the century even if he has a 48-0 record at present.

It was not the “Fight of the Century” or the “Fight of the Decade”. With that performances from both great boxers, I think they have limited their abilities to protect their careers. Floyd had his money while Pacquiao revealed his shoulder injury. It was not comparable to any match like Ali and Frazier. It was simply just a Sunday fight where we loved to watch during lunch.

Kiddingly, it was a fight of stars and a basis for another meme in social media.

Endings are always beginnings as they say. My four years experienced in this dynamic organization have proven that dreams do really come true if you believe on it. But before you will reach your ambition, you will first undergo a lot of revisions in your story.

For our avid readers to know, before I have reached my position, I first tasted the bitter feeling of failing the Publications’ examination.

Yet that experience did not discourage me, instead it made a stronger person in me to try again the second time around. And with those people who believed in me during that day of exam, eventually, I passed. Luckily that time, the USA Publications first offered the Apprentice Writers position and I became one of the pioneers. On July of 2011, my four years of USA Publications story started.

Actually, all I really wanted was only to have a column in a newspaper. When I was given that chance last year, I surely said to myself that it is done and it’s enough. Yet, being one of the seniors, and as a call of responsibility, I took my final exam. Here I am now, grateful.

I met a lot of people who made my sentences in life interesting to read. These persons had given me four types of sentences daily, but most of the time imperative ones and I was humble enough to submit unto those set of words. With that willingness, I learned a lot.

Until now, I considered myself as an apprentice because there are so much to learn in the sea of knowledge as St. Augustine said.

To those who wanted to defy the odds in life, go for it, nevertheless what will happen. Just have Faith in Him and on yourself. Besides, no one is static here in this blue planet. We keep on moving!