The Augustinian Mirror March 2019 by USA Publications

mirror Vol. 85 No. 1

March 2019

the

au g u st i n i a n

The Official Student Magazine of the University of San Agustin // Iloilo City, Philippines

Woe, destruction, ruin, and

decay; the worst is death and death will have his day.

-William Shakespeare

Photograph â&#x20AC;˘ Edrea Claire G. Gregore

§ §

editor’s note leaving the phase of apathy “You just sit there and tolerate it, the same way everything in this country is tolerated. Every deception, every lie, every bullet in the brains. Just as you are already tolerating bullets in the brains that will be implemented only after the bullet is put in your brains.” -Imre Kertész

With the emergence

of technology and development comes the dying society of people living without the urge to strive and to thrive. the challenge is to end the apathy that continuously crumbles the faith of man to crave for change IN humanity.

As our nation strives for progress, the existence of culture and tradition passed by generations are sometimes abruptly disregarded. We unceasingly move forward, forgetting how humanity should really work. The unstoppable disintegration of things especially the intangible ones reminds us that nothing is bound to last forever. Sometimes, we need to take a step backward in order to move forward.

With the losing battles that everyone is facing in their daily lives, people tend to tolerate the sufferings happening in front of their naked eyes. It is not really ignorance of societal, political, and other types of issues that rots our society; it is apathy that nurtures it. In this issue of The Augustinian Mirror, we offer stories ranging on toxic masculinity, mental health, pornography in society, developmental communication, emerging commerce, tattoo discrimination, e nv i r o n m e n t a l problems, and stories about faith and religion. They are meant to challenge you, our dear readers, in making a stand. Then, act on your stand before you lose your chance.

Rj Photograph Romari Charlz F. Diaz

mirror au gu st inia n the

about the cover GROWTH FROM DECAY. The evolution of society is inevitable and is necessary .The old will be buried down while the new will rise above the ground. For people to appreciate its purpose, they should transcend above just adaptation and change. They should put in mind the price of every action towards the realization of inevitability. Photographs: Edrea Claire G. Gregore, Daniel Jeff C. Telic, Miguel Carlos J. Llamado, Bobbiejo M. Healey Cover Model: Jonny Idone Dress, Hair, and Make-up: Romari Charlz F. Diaz, Helda Mae P. Godoy, Paulene A. Buenafe, June Ivan S. Gumban Production: Rj Junsay, Erika Danielle M. Pepito, Wilkienson C. Muro, Bj B. Escarilla, Rochelle Mae M. Muzones, Philip Robert C. Alaban, Kent Lexter B. Co

“The refusal to take sides on great moral issues is itself a decision. It is a silent acquiescence to evil. The tragedy of our time is that those who still believe in honesty lack fire and conviction, while those who believe in dishonesty are full of passionate conviction.” - Fulton J. Sheen

RJ JUNSAY

Editor-in-Chief

Mirror Reflections

ERIKA DANIELLE M. PEPITO Managing Editor Wilkienson c. muro Associate Editor rochelle mae m. muzones Associate Editor Ma. judiel I. quintar Circulation Manager MARIA CRISTY E. DAGUAY Moderator ART AND DESIGN TEAM Romari Charlz F. Diaz (Art Director) Helda Mae P. Godoy Reynelyn P. Yorac June Ivan S. Gumban (Staff Artists)

Urban decay appeals to the imagination. Inasmuch as degeneration is inescapable with age, it stimulates the mind, letting it drift to the memories and imaginations of a past that once was and a future that will be. The passage of time and the inevitability of collapse remind us of our own impermanence. Dilapidation shows traces and voids as spaces for interpretation of shifting identities and tainted ideologies. In this issue of The Augustinian Mirror, we want to give you something new to ponder. We want to give you stories that serve to remind us that decay, in every essence, is unavoidable. Hence, some good things come after these inevitable odds; depending on how to deal with its traces. In this shift of milieu, the certainty of progress while the other decays are inevitable. As part of change, one must embrace these fragments in the midst of eccentricities; considered as part of a whole, a part of variation, and a portion of the transformation that does not render into apathy. The USA Pub is eternally grateful to all those who have been a part of our journey despite all its twists and turns. To the Panorama Printing, Inc. especially to Nong Elmer, Ma’am Narle, and Ma’am Mercy, thank you for the patience and support. To the Augustinian Administration, to the alumni and our resource persons, thank you for imparting upon us your firsthand knowledge for the articles despite your busy schedules. To the USA Publications Staff, your artistry shines through in this issue. To everyone who helped in one way or another, our thanks are extended to all of you. Our heartfelt gratitude goes to all of you who gave us the drive and fueled our passion to move and continue on working the determined narratives and of nascent endeavors. The Augustinian MIRROR is the official student magazine of the University of San Agustin, Iloilo City, Philippines. It is published regularly by the USA Publications, which envisions itself as an Augustinian center of campus journalism, fostering the advocacy of the common good and acting as voice of the student body through responsive, developmental, and researchbased campus journalism. Contributions, comments, and suggestions may be sent to the editors. No part of this publication can be reproduced by any means without permission and authority from the USA Publications. Colophon: This magazine was produced using Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, and Adobe Illustrator under Adobe Creative Suite 6. Hennigar, Libre Baskerville, Bebas Neue and Futura were used for the text.

COMMUNITY AFFAIRS TEAM Emy Rose G. Gallego (Community Editor) Chito Cezar P. Batoon, Jr. Jeff G. Tolentino Jielyn Anne L. Bastian (Staff Writers) CREATIVE WRITING TEAM Mark Anthony A. Masacote (Literary Editor) Everild Dominique A. Camique Glaiza Rae D. Amable Jerico M. Severino (Staff Writers) PHOTOGRAPHY TEAM Edrea Claire G. Gregore (Photography Director) Miguel Carlos J. Llamado Bobbiejo M. Healey Daniel Jeff C. Telic (Staff Photographers) BJ B. Escarilla (Videographer) PROGRAM MANAGEMENT TEAM Philip Robert C. Alaban (Program Director) Paulene A. Buenafe (Staff Writer) Kent Lexter B. Co (Website Administrator)

USA Publications Responsive • Developmental • Research-based

Address: 2/F Alumni Bldg., University of San Agustin, General Luna Street, Iloilo City, Philippines 5000 Phone Number: (033) 337 4842 local 189 Website: www.usapub.net Email: usapublications1@gmail.com

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OPINION

Crossing InterIsland Vision BEOCHAOINEADH

Chito Cezar P. Batoon, Jr., BS Arch ‘20 chitobatoon@gmail.com

Inter-island transportation has played a vital role in transporting goods and services to different economic sectors in the Philippine archipelago. An efficient system is critical for development, ensuring equitable distribution of resources. Western Visayas, considering its geographical location and in order for the region to become a significant contributor in the economy, the Panay-Guimaras-Negros (PGN) bridge was proposed. The claim is that it will enable producers to deliver services and livelihood opportunities. Also, in light of the past accidents involving ferries especially during typhoon season, this will provide less risky alternatives for the inter-island travelers. Meanwhile, apprehensions are to be checked before it is carried out; the monetary constraints, communication costs and mitigating factors to its adverse effects. There are myriads of pros and cons; opportunities and consequences. The provisions for this type of project would affect small scale operations. Consequently, it would affect operations that would lead to profit constraints of the smallscale transport system. Recognizing this opportunity, reliable and resilient transportation systems are the lifelines, sustaining the survival of the economy. Unique vulnerabilities have been recognized, nevertheless, remain and are further exacerbated by trends, but by proper imposition of rules, these would be mitigated. Under Arroyo Administration, plans prior to the recent project were established but were hold due several constraints. The Japan International Cooperation Agency way back in 1999 created a master plan for these bridges: the one spanning about six kilometers from Panay to Guimaras through Leganes and Buenavista, and the other ranging about 13 kilometers from Guimaras to Negros through San Lorenzo and Pulupandan. These were only given enough attention again during the Duterte Administration. In the present, the start of the construction is targeted by the end of 2018 or early 2019 as disclosed by the current Governor of Guimaras, Samuel Gumarin. Citing the report of Louine Hope Conserva of the Business World online news platform, the latest update from Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar revealed that the completion period is seen within four to five years. The expected budget will reach PhP 42 billion but to be funded through a Chinese government grant as part of the “Build, Build, Build” Program of the President. Since the Phase 1 of the project, 10 engineers from China already visited Iloilo City and presented proposed plans for the said bridge last November 2018. Iloilo City Mayor Jose Espinosa III, in an interview with the Philippine News Agency, did not disclose the names and the firm, but he said that they belong to

the group of contractors who worked on the 55-kilometer Hong Kong to Macau Bridge. The 16-kilometer bridge project is yet to undergo a feasibility study as part of the agreements signed between the Philippines and China during the recent state visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping. The agreement considers the Infrastructure Cooperation Program to encourage enterprises in both countries to participate in key infrastructure projects in the Philippines. Regional domestic and inter-island transport system is of

“Unique vulnerabilities have been recognized, nevertheless, remain present and are further exacerbated by trends, but by proper imposition of rules, these would be mitigated.” equal importance not only to foster economic growth, but also in order to solve daunting challenges in trade and commerce. Relevant difficulties are affected, and the lack of adequate transport services limit the ability to generate more income variances. Expenditures and revenues are at risk, henceforth, addressing transport related gaps and constraints, is considered a must. The project underscores recommendations into tangible actions, and set response measures of transport connectivity; and to address challenges to change is imperative. Considering the necessities of the construction of the said project, to further integrate intermodal mobility in transport systems, we could never deny that problems like loss of job opportunities for locals of Guimaras and Iloilo transport groups are at stake. The government should weigh wisely the pros and cons of the implementation of such project. Will the project really benefit the locals and the tourists in the long run or is another government project pipeline of corrupted funds of the public. If ever this bridge will be realized, this should bridge the gap between culture, connect people, and boost the commerce of both Iloilo and Guimaras; for bridges are bound to connect places and build linkages and are not bound to divide people and to create gaps. Artwork Romari Charlz F. Diaz

The Augustinian Mirror

OPINION

Mga Payaso ng Gobyerno ACROPHONIC

Rj Junsay, BS ChE‘19 r.junsay14@gmail.com

Ang bawat eleksyon na ginaganap sa Pilipinas ay naghuhudyat ng isang pagkakataon upang magluklok ng panibagong mga tagapaglingkod ng bayan, partikular na ang mga senador na inaasahang magdadala ng pagbabago sa bansa. Ang bawat eleksyon ay katumbas ng ilang buwang pangangampanya ng mga kandidato upang masungkit ang puso ng bayan, katulad rin sa ibang nasyon. Sa kasamaang palad, ang eleksyon dito ay hindi tulad ng ibang nasyon na ang labanan ay utak at mga plataporma. Dito sa ating bansa, mas tinatangkilik ng mga tao ang mga pulitikong may matunog na pangalan, sa masama o mabuti mang paraan, at may nakakaaliw na jingle. Tila isang karnabal ang tinatayo sa ilalim ng ating bandera at hindi isang gobyerno. Dito lamang sa Pilipinas makakakita ka ng mga pulitikong naluluklok sa posisyon sa kabila ng ilang kasong kanilang kinakaharap, mga pulitikong napatunayan na nagnakaw sa kaban ng bayan, at mga pulitikong walang kaalam-alam sa trabaho ng isang senador na napilitan lamang tumakbo sa pulitika dulot ng impluwensya ng kapwa nila pulitiko. Dagdagan na rin ng mga sikat na tao sa telebisyon na nagnanais lamang ng karagdagang kasikatan at pagtanggap. Para sa eleksyon nitong Mayo 2019, malayang nakatakbo sa pwesto ang mga kakalaya lamang na sina Bong Revilla at Jinggoy Estrada mula sa mga akusasyon sa kanilang korapsyon gamit ang pork barrel. Ang mga walang ideya sa responsibilidad at gawain ng isang senador katulad nina Bato Dela Rosa at Bong Go ay tumakbo rin sa Senado dahil na rin sa impluwensya ng kasalukuyang administrasyon. Ang sinasabing pinepeke ang kaniyang mga credentials na si Imee Marcos ay nagnanais rin na mailuklok sa pwesto. May ilan ring artista at mga basketbolista ang tumatakbo rin para sa iba’t-ibang posisyon. Ayon sa Artikulo V, Seksyon 1 ng 1987 Constitution, “Suffrage may be exercised by all citizens of the Philippines not otherwise disqualified by law, who are at least eighteen years of age, and who shall have resided in the Philippines for at least one year, and in the place wherein they propose to vote, for at least six months immediately preceding the election. No literacy, property, or other substantive requirement shall be imposed on the exercise of suffrage.” Sa edad na 18 taon pataas at sa tamang

pag-iisip, wala pa rin bang sapat na kaisipan ang isang tao para makita kung sino ang nararapat niyang pagkatiwalaan lalo na para sa kanyang boto? Nakakatindig balahibo na maraming Pilipino pa rin ang nagtitiwala sa mga ganitong klaseng tao. Tila mga bulag at bingi ang mga mamamayan sa kasuklam-suklam na mukha ng pulitika sa bansa. Bakit ba patuloy na nagpapalinlang ang mga tao sa mga payasong ito? Dahil ba nawalan na sila ng tiwala sa

Kung patuloy pa rin ang maling kaisipan ng mga tao at hindi pa rin sila nawiwindang sa ganitong sitwasyon ng ating bansa ay hindi mauubos ang mga payaso ng ating pamahalaan. bansa? Sa ating gobyerno? O dahil napagod na sila sa patuloy na pag-asang may pagbabagong magaganap pa? Na kahit sino pa man ang iboto nila ay ganoon pa rin ang kalalabasan ng resulta ng eleksyon? Magiging masalimuot pa rin ang kapalaran ng bayan ni Juan. Kung patuloy pa rin ang maling kaisipan ng mga tao at hindi pa rin sila nawiwindang sa ganitong sitwasyon ng ating bansa ay hindi mauubos ang mga payaso ng ating pamahalaan. Isang itong karnabal na hindi matatapos sa pag-aliw sa mga ordinaryong mamamayan gamit ang kanilang mapaglinlang na pamamaraan. Panahon na para buksan ang kaisipan, tanggalin ang piring ng mga mata, at ihanda ang mga tenga sa pakikinig dahil hindi pa huli para gibain ang karnabal na kanilang itinayo sa ating gobyerno. Artwork Romari Charlz F. Diaz VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

OPINION

Victimizing the Victim epoch

Erika Danielle M. Pepito, BS Psych ‘19 erdanielle2007n@yahoo.com.ph

A few months ago, there circulated a Facebook post of a painting of a girl bearing some scars and bruises on her body. It was made as a form of catharsis from her seven-year silence after she was sexually harassed at a social gathering. Her classmates didn’t know, her friends didn’t know, her parents didn’t know. It was after she posted it on social media that the truth was let out, and there came a show of support for the victim as well as some backlash. She mentioned in her lengthy post that people have come forward to ask her what could have led her to such an unfortunate circumstance. They asked why it took her years to share this painful experience, or what was she wearing, or what time did it happen, or what did she say or do that provoked the perpetrator to commit the act. These questions, may it be unbeknownst to those who dared ask them even with the simplest intention of curiosity, are examples of victim blaming. Victim blaming is not only confined within sexual harassment alone. Victim blaming also perpetuates among those who are made to feel powerless – victims of crimes, victims of physical or verbal assault, victims of preconceived notions, and victims of worldly expectations. Another video that made rounds all over social media showed a bully in one of the country’s prominent schools physically assaulting another boy and threatening him to choose between battery and dignity. It was seen in the video how the victim tried to defend himself, but still ended up in the receiving end of some netizens finding fault in his choice of not retaliating against the bully. The bullied boy’s parents broke their silence by reiterating that their son chose his dignity by not fighting back, by respecting the bully even as he himself was beaten and humiliated. Just the mere thought of wondering if the victim could have done something to avoid being in that situation is victim blaming in itself. Why is there an urge for people to blame victims for their misfortunes? In psychology, it has been said that there lies a tendency in the deep recesses of our minds to blame the victim because we find the idea of fairness comforting. More so, it is to protect our ego that the incident did not happen to us, and it made us feel invulnerable because we are not among the prey. This is better explained by the Just-World Phenomenon, studied and formulated by psychologist Melvin Lerner in onset of the 1960s. The said phenomenon is evident in situations wherein victims are blamed for the abuse, sexual assault, crime, or poverty they experienced when people rationalize what brought them to such circumstances, may it be in their speech

or behavior. Also, it is centered on the belief that good things happen to good people, and bad things happen to bad people. Instead of attributing the deed to external factors, specifically the offenders, people point out the individual’s intrinsic aspects. Lerner and his colleague Carolyn Simmons conducted an experiment wherein a group of women were asked to observe a person receiving electrical shocks as punishment for her mistakes during a word-memorization task. Although it was all an act and the person was not harmed at all, some protected their

Victim blaming is not confined within sexual harassment alone. Victim blaming also targets those who are made to feel powerless – victims of crimes, victims of physical or verbal assault, victims of preconceived notions, and victims of worldly expectations. view that the world is fair by justifying that the person deserved the electrical shocks by giving out the wrong answers. The fact that victim blaming is a self-protective mechanism is a hard pill to swallow. There is one way of reversing our perspective on the victims - that is by embodying empathy. Still anchored on Lerner and Simmons’ experiment, they repeated it with some modifications. Rather than asking them to watch the victim be shocked, they were asked to reflect how they would feel if they were in the person’s shoes. It brought about more empathic responses instead of derogatory statements against the person. The victims suffer in a period of silence out of fear and weariness from those who will never understand the gravity of the trauma they felt. To open the wounds that heal with a seemingly careless remark is to force them to relive their unfortunate encounters. These have already scarred them for life. It has been said countless times. Before you condemn, think of how you would feel if you were in the person’s shoes in that situation, and afterwards. Nobody deserves to be hurt or violated or shamed. Don’t let them go through that again. It’s not their fault. It wasn’t even theirs in the first place. Artwork Reynelyn P. Yorac

The Augustinian Mirror

PEOPLE & SOCIETY

Unmasking Toxic Masculinity Beyond the brooding muscles, the thick beard, and the strong play act lies a personality chained by the standards of society. By Jeff G. Tolentino Illustration Romari Charlz F. Diaz

Real men don’t cry.

This is how society perceives it. Boys are believed to be strong, inexpressive of their emotion, and competitive. From the moment of birth, these perceptions and expectations create the distinctive behaviors society referred to as gender roles, the key in fitting into the set standard. It’s the norm and to break it is a taboo. Throughout the different cultures of the world, men are commonly associated with being rational, ambitious, smart, competitive, powerful, violent, and tolerant. Hence, the attributes

that defines masculinity. Any deviation from being masculine, society sees a man as less of himself. Centuries ago, the roles of men and women have been precisely defined, an attribute that continues to persist during the present generation.

How Men are Made

Long before the first light kisses the naïve skin of the body and the shapeless takes form, the life ahead of conception begins. How ideas are brought up to the consciousness of a child is developed by one of the most fundamental unit of society – the school. Education teaches one to conform to one set of standards. At an early age one is taught the primary differences each has to play. When one is conditioned to follow a set belief over ones gender, toxic masculinity begins. Every Juan bred is expected to show qualities of masculinity and not to show any weakness. In contrast, a colonial Maria Clara is the demure and gentle sex. On Roger Hock’s book entitled “Human Sexuality”, the assumption that Juan must adhere to the set of traits, defined for him and no other else, gives rise to gender stereotypes. This regards a person to act according to his sex and not as a unique individual which, overtime, has made an illusion to what a man really is.

A Maria Clara sided Juan dela Cruz

To live up to these expectations to belong with the group, signs of weakness, compassion, and selfsustenance oftentimes involve their suppression by VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

The choice of inexpression is not of free will, but because of the consequences of the actions, vulnerabilities, and emotional displacement of having a higher hierarchy role in society.

the male individual. A study by Narges Horriat, Tyler Madsen, and Matthew Okida entitled “Men and Affection: The Examination of Gender Roles and Masculine Traits as Factors Affecting Male Affectional Expression and the Identification of Distinct Male Expressional Styles”, showed that “men are capable of the same emotional spectrum as women, but often choose inexpression, or expression by means which are not typically identified as traditional responses.” This relates the “male tendency towards inexpression as both universal and societally based.” Researches show that the choice of inexpression is not of free will, but because of the consequences of the actions, vulnerabilities, and emotional displacement of having a higher hierarchy role in society. This further deprives men of the right to express themselves, and always putting them on guard against the public. By doing so, Alexei Quintero Gonzalez and Richard Koestner with their study “What Valentine Announcements Reveal about the Romantic Emotions of Men and Women”, concluded that the pervasive demands of gender roles and masculinity may strip them of the ability to express love.

The male tag

Androcentrism defined as emphasizing masculine interest or masculine point of view has been a practice that persisted throughout time. The preferences in the hierarchy of power prefers one that is able to fight, therefore having the capacity to defend and lead. Thus, making men more inclined to the role. While given the upper hand in social hierarchy, hegemonic masculinity that supposedly legitimizes the dominance of men over other genders are over turned by a skeptic mind that sees violence as men’s tool to acquire power. Throughout civilizations, men are tagged as being

Source: https://www.bustle.com/articles/143644-6-harmful-effects-of-toxic-masculinity

The Augustinian Mirror

aggressive and by nature, violent. Physiologically, men are indeed structurally superior than the opposite sex. Men generally have a greater muscle and bone mass that enables them to harness greater physical output. However, societal biases that arises from linking physiologic dominance to violence has created a social stigma to the role that men play. While claiming all physiologic advantage of men, biology does not have anything to do with the development of toxic masculinity. Several factors that are determined socially are what puts the stigma on play. Psychologist William Pollack, Ph. D., discussed that men are somehow conscious to safeguard their reputation in the society. Thus, in a sense redirects the traits that seems unacceptable in the society. Concepts like “men can’t cry and show emotion,” “men can’t be dictated by a woman,” “men can’t wear pink,” “men can’t do fashion,” are among the most common signs of the stigma. While on a strong play in defense, men who do not conform are most likely to experience bullying, abuse and are most likely to commit suicide. In 2016, data from the World Health Organization (WHO) has recorded 793,000 deaths worldwide having suicide accounting for 1.4 percent of death worldwide making it the 18th lead cause of death. Most were men. Going against the millennium-old norm of gender roles in society nears impossibility. But not entirely. Men are more than just emotionless tough beings. As toxic masculinity is given less concern, more men are strangled and in hiding to the eyes of the standardized society. When one begins to understand and see beyond norms, a little of the stronghold is torn apart. After all men are also humans capable of feeling. We all are. We all are.

Behind Bars No More

PEOPLE & SOCIETY

It is always the quiet ones.

James* started familiarizing himself with the new faces he was bound to interact with any minute now. He saw them climb up the stairs that led them to the recreation area and decided to follow them afterwards. He surveyed the area and sluggishly walked to a worn-out metal chair. In his head, the voices got louder. But it took a while to reorient himself that the students around him are engrossed in hushed conversations, apprehensive of their first encounter with patients like him. He stared at the railings that shielded him from the rest of the world, his mind wandering the pavements he once trod, his mind wondering when the voices in his head will come to an end.

SAVING GRACE

The signing of the Mental Health Law reinforces the need of breaking the stigma and building more bridges for accessible mental health in the community. By Erika Danielle M. Pepito Photograph Bobbiejo M. Healey Artwork June Ivan S. Gumban Illustration Romari Charlz F. Diaz

James has schizophrenia, a severely chronic mental disorder that manifests itself between the ages of 16 to 30. It is characterized by delusions (false beliefs), hallucinations (false perceptions), disorganized speech or behavior, and lack of emotional expression. The Philippine Health Information System on Mental Health (PHIS-MH) gathered data from May 2014 to May 2016 among 2,562 patients from 14 public and private hospitals and found the said disorder as the most prevalent mental disorder, slating 42 percent of patients, mostly males within 20 to 44 years of age. PHIS-MH is the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first public-private mental health information system. Philippine Statistics Authority (formerly the National Statistics Office) claimed that mental health illnesses rank third in the most common forms of morbidity. With these alerting information and heightened clamor, the Philippine Mental Health Law was concretized to defend the mental health rights of the Filipinos, to deflate the perceived humiliation on having mental illnesses and seeking psychological assistance, and to dignify patients with psychiatric, neurologic, and psychosocial health needs. The Philippine Mental Health Law, or Republic Act (RA) No. 11036, aims to bring â&#x20AC;&#x153;timely, affordable, high-quality, and culturally-appropriate mental health care [that] is made available to the public.â&#x20AC;? The law was signed on June 21, 2018, and the implementing rules and regulations were finally set in stone last January 22, 2019. The observance of mental health practice to the barangays and increased force of mental health professionals was made possible with the said law, after three decades of hits and misses. The law envisions to secure the rights, welfare, and needs of mentally ill patients and mental health professionals, assimilate psychiatric, psycho-social, and neurologic services to the community, develop mental healthcare facilities, and encourage mental health education and awareness in schools and workplaces.

ONE CALL AWAY The Department of Health (DOH) and the National Council for Mental Health launched a national crisis hotline for persons with mental health concerns. The hotline (which is accessible through 0917-899-8727/USAP) offers services from counseling to psychiatric emergencies and suicide prevention, substance abuse and addiction, gender identity and sexual orientation and abuse, school VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

and career, domestic abuse, and violence against women and children (VAWC). In 2015, the DOH Region VI established an on-air peer helper program, with the DOH Peer Helper On Air (DyLL Radyo ng Bayan: Kabuhi sang Pamatan-on). It focused on mental health issues concerning the youth and VAWC. Ma. Keziah Villareal, a BS Psychology major, was tapped to be a part of the said initiative. “We usually get messages rather than calls because we do it while we’re on air. We get around five to 10 messages for airing, which ran from 40 minutes to an hour,” Villareal detailed, referring to entries coming from 15 to 17-year old females in the Panay area. “We receive messages from adolescents telling us that they are relieved that someone is listening to them. With the current situation on mental health, it really needs attention and support from the government, from its people, and from the profit or non-profit organizations. If we want to stop mental health issues, we have to work together especially because we lack the facilitators and the facilities.”

HOLED UP Data from the DOH’s Bureau of Health and Facilities Services reflect that there are only two government-owned psychiatric health centers in the country (one in Bataan, and another in Cavite), and only 58 private psychiatric health facilities all over the country. The National Center for Mental Health in Mandaluyong is by far the biggest mental hospital in the Philippines, able to accommodate more or less 4, 000 patients. In an interview with Dr. Daisy Daquilanea, MD, FPPA, the department head of the Western Visayas Medical Center (WVMC) Department of Psychiatry, shared the struggles in managing the ward and caring for the patients. The St. Jude Ward has a 24-bed capacity, and there were instances in the past wherein the patients were overcrowded due to the influx. “The ward is designed for a 24-bed capacity. We refer some patients to another hospital, the West Visayas State University Medical Center (WVSUMC) in Jaro or to the Pototan Mental Hospital if the number of patients exceeds, which happens a lot of times. We strictly limit it to 24 because if the ward is overcrowded, it is no longer conducive for the patients’s healing and recovery. The place should be comfortable and orderly for them. Although in the past, we cannot refuse admission, especially if the patient is

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homicidal or suicidal in withdrawal,” quipped Daquilanea in Hiligaynon. Dr. Janice Taleon, MD, chief resident, revealed that “we limited the patients because of the renovations so the maximum [number of patients] now (as of time of interview) is 14.” The proposed renovation includes an activity center for the patients to roam around, exercise, perform occupational therapy activities, and work on livelihood projects, among others. Schizophrenia is one of the mental illnesses that require immediate admission. The patients have either relapsed, failed to take their medications, had a recent alcohol intake, stayed up late at night, or had a triggering experience. They are admitted because they could either be very violent, hostile, or suicidal. Patients with bipolar or other mood disorders, in their depressive or manic states, are recommended for admission as well. Another common reason for admission in WVMC’s St. Jude Ward is substance abuse disorder. Daquilanea enumerated illegal drug use, alcohol withdrawal, and alcohol-induced psychiatric conditions under the common diagnoses. The Dangerous Drugs Board in 2015 declared that around 5,500 Filipinos were admitted to mental healthcare centers because of drug use (methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu” with 96.74 percent, marijuana with 24.94 percent, and cocaine with 1.11 percent). Dr. Maria Annabellee Salanatin serves as a psychiatrist consultant and overseer of the Center for the Care of the Mentally Ill Patients since September 2016. It was under the supervision of the city government after it was conceived in May 1988 by the then-City Councilor and then-Vice Mayor, Dr. Guillermo Y. Dela Llana. The center was able to serve around 5,000 patients for the last 20 years despite its meager resources to sustain the patients’ needs. It was labelled back then as ‘Operation Tatap Buang’ or ‘The Care of Mentally-Ill Persons’. It coordinates with the WVMC Psychiatric Department and WVSUMC in availing the services for free out-patient consultation and management of the patients. Although funds are approximated for the center, it relies on the generosity and kindness of private persons, nongovernment organizations and pharmaceutical companies for patients’ food, supplies, medicines, and other needs. To cater patients, six cells were constructed at the center’s second floor, which was later converted into two wards for six patients in each cell. Today, the center can hold up to 20 patients, but around 25 to 30 patients are admitted on average. As of the time of interview, the center has 23 patients. They are segregated depending on their manageability – those confined in the ground floor in separate cells are recently admitted and are inclined to be more agitated than the other patients; those in the second floor cells can perform tasks assigned to them such as helping in cleaning the center or maintaining its order. Common diagnoses of patients admitted include schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, substance abuse disorder, and other mental disorders. Patients are commonly admitted for reports of violent behavior, neglect and lack of family support, and substance use. In cases wherein patients have disruptive episodes, Salanatin enumerated the mechanisms they go through to pacify the patients. “Firstly, we provide verbal intervention. We remind them to calm down. If it is not effective, we ask them they are hungry or if they need to be administered

“Being there with them in their difficulties, in their symptoms, and guiding them and their families how to go about their treating the disorder is already fulfilling.” with medication orally or through injection. The last resort is restraint.”

SHIFTING THE “MENTAL” MENTALITY The implementation of the Mental Health Law has redefined the mental health situation of the country. On the city level, Daquilanea reflected, “Based on the Tokhang census, a lot of patients are coming in because of withdrawal, not only with drugs. The number of alcohol withdrawals or alcoholic-induced psychiatric illnesses have increased. There seems to be an improvement in the mental health awareness as to prevention and treatment. Our out-patient department (OPD), from 50 per day, have reached an average of 70 or 80 outpatients a day, we even reached 110. A lot are seeking consultation, which decreases the admission.” In every case being handled, there is always a silver lining attached to it. “Each case is always challenging and always fulfilling, whether I failed or succeeded to treat them, because of the fact that you have been there offering help to the best of your capacity. Being there with them in their difficulties, in their symptoms and guiding them and their families how to go about their treating the disorder is already fulfilling. We treat our patients as they are all unique in their own way. And you will find out even more, that the more that you will give yourself to the patient, the more that you become fulfilled as a person. Being there is the most important thing, helping them,” shared Daquilanea. Daquilanea highlighted the importance of awareness on one’s mental health and family support. “Being aware that you have problems is very important, because denial ang gadelay sang treatment or them having to go back to their state of wellbeing. Because there is now less stigma, the more they come forward, the more they can be helped and the earlier they can be intervened. Early diagnosis and direction of treatment is good for mental health. Now that families are more aware of it also, they are more supportive but of course we want them also to give attention to that support system to the patients. That means, regular follow up and regulations. In a way, changing the way they deal with their patients. Changing the usual language that they give into a more understanding of the patients’ difficulties. Constantly telling them na “it’s okay, we are here to support you” can really help the patients.” As he started to debate whether he should retreat to his safe space in the mental health center, two students approached him and decided to strike up a conversation with him. He was not entirely sure of their motives. He was aware that he tended to recoil around people. But he decided to let them into his realm and confide in them. He found himself at ease with them. It is always the quiet ones. But this time, his cry was heard. *not his real name

Source: today.mims.com/the-4-most-common-mental-health-illnesses-among-filipinos

VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

PEOPLE & SOCIETY

Buried Justice By Emy Rose G. Gallego Artwork Romari Charlz F. Diaz Illustration Reynelyn P. Yorac

Since President Rodrigo Duterte took office in June 2016, violent death has become the staple news in and out of the country. He was lying face down, naked in a rainsoaked alley while his head wrapped in packing tape. A crude blood-splattered cardboard signs was next to his body. It reads: “Pusher ako, wag tularan”. A devastated cry of a new widow. A deafening siren of approaching police cars. A single bullet to the back of his head that night made him the first of thousands of Filipinos killed in the ruthless war on drugs.

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This is not surprising. President Rodrigo Duterte made it no secret that this would happen. The carnage is exactly what he promised before his election in April 2016. “All of you who are into drugs, you sons of b*tches, I will really kill you,” he said. When he met the police on the day after his inauguration at a ceremony installing Ronald dela Rosa as the nation’s top cop, he assured them of his protection if they killed “1,000 persons” in the line of duty. He also announced that he knew who the drug lords were and that their end is soon to come. The country’s big man was even quoted saying, “If you know of any addicts, go ahead and kill them yourself as getting their parents to do it would be too painful,” when he paid an evening visit to a Manila slum. Filipinos and the international community have watched in great horror accounts of bodies found bloody and lifeless. All of these were linked to his murderous campaign on war on drugs. And so the killings and battle of moralities in the country has begun.

THE TURNING POINT

17-year-old Kian Loyd De los Santos was just an ordinary young man who had a dream to serve his country and to be a police officer. Ironically, the men he looked up to were the very ones who took his last breath. An incident involving the high school student sparked outrage and public scrutiny on the anti-drug war. Kian met his tragic and cruel demise at the hands of three Caloocan policemen during an Oplan Galugad operation on the night of August 16, 2017. His body was found in the street, his head filled with holes from gunshots. The police claimed that Kian carried shabu and shot at them when he was being arrested. “Nanlaban”, as they would often tell—but CCTV footage, eyewitness accounts, and forensic examination results belied all of these claims. Over a year after his death, Manila court found the three police officers guilty for the murder. For fourth year Bachelor of Arts Political Science student Erico John Magabilin, the war on drugs has taken

for granted the rights entitled to every suspected individual in the eyes of the law. “I find this policy of the government as anti-poor. Police officers have been targeting people from the marginalized sectors of the country, planting evidences [on] them and asserting that it was an act of self-defense, if victims were killed resisting the arrest,” shared Magabilin with The Augustinian Mirror. Of the thousands who have fallen at the hands of the socalled supreme protector of the law, no one has figured out how different this one death would be. His death was able to awaken the consciousness of the general public. These days, killing someone becomes easier without even legal percussions. Anyone can be a target. It could have been me. It could have been you.

GOVERNING THROUGH KILLINGS

United Nations (UN) defined human rights as rights inherent to all human beings, regardless of race, sex, nationality, ethnicity, language, religion, or any other status. Human rights include the right to life and liberty, freedom from slavery and torture, freedom of opinion and expression, the right to work and education, and many more. Everyone is entitled to these rights, without discrimination. The rights of every Filipino can be found in the Article III of the 1987 Constitution., also known as the Bill of Rights. This section declares the rights and privileges a Filipino citizen possess and that the Constitution has to protect, no matter what. The idea of human rights is further explained by Dr. Joao Periera, International Relations and Political Science professor in the University, who said, “In Political Science, and in the main UN conventions on the subject, human rights are defined as a set of rights that every person in entitled by the very basic fact of being human. Therefore, these rights are inalienable. Human Rights are usually divided in civil and political rights such as the right to life and property, equal treatment under the law, the right to vote, the freedom of speech, religion, press, association; and socioeconomic and security rights such as the right to education, employment, security and housing.” No trials have been executed, so there is no concrete evidence that the people being shot to death are in fact drug addicts or drug pushers. In this situation, there are less chances that justice could be served for the innocent ones. In an essay posted online by the Council on Foreign Affairs, “Drug dealers

and drug addicts are a stigmatized group, and stigmatized groups always have difficulty gaining political support for the defense of their rights.”

BYE ICC

International outrages against this bloody war on drugs carry on, yet the president also continues to ignore it. In fact, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet said in a statement delivered during the 40th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, “The drug policies in place in the Philippines, and its lack of respect for rule of law and international standards, should not be considered a model

“Anyone can be a target. It could have been me. It could have been you.” by any country.” Moreover, just this March, the Philippines has officially withdrawn from the International Criminal Court (ICC). The Philippines moved to quit after the body launched a preliminary examination on the death toll in the context of the administration’s anti-drug war. A withdrawal from ICC means that any future international crimes committed in the country will be outside of the court’s jurisdiction. Many believed that it would not affect the country’s justice system, yet, this act will create a bad impression on the international community that we are not able to comply with our international treaty obligations. “The state of human rights in the country has suffered serious international criticisms with the increasing number of deaths caused by the government’s policy—war on drugs. The degrading condition of human rights is a clear reflection of the inability of the government to follow due process and the rule of law,” expressed Magabilin. Despite the fact that Kian was given justice a year after his death, one thing is clear – thousands have already been killed by this bloodshed. They were denied justice and slaughtered like animals, treated as “collateral damage” of the pointless killings. In the midst of all the slayings, it’s easy to remain numb and insensitive to all the brutality. It is easy to ignore the news on TV and radio, or mute political posts in your feed. No doubt, our society has been susceptible to danger, yet our being deaf and blind to the summary executions that violate the rights provided by the constitution, is what enables to kill it more.

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PEOPLE & SOCIETY

Undisputed Highway King

The Philippine King of the Road is about to conquer its greatest battle yet – the Jeepney Modernization Program. By Paulene A. Buenafe Photograph Bj B. Escarilla Illustration Romari Charlz F. Diaz

Borloloys and bubble heads to dash board cameras. “Barya Lang Sa Umaga” stickers to “Ibasura Ang Jeepney Phaseout!” signages. Family income to fare increase. ‘Poor’ to ‘poorer’.

He promised that ‘change is coming’. It did.

THE LONG RIDE

The busy streets of the Philippines are ruled by vibrant, multicolored and interesting-looking military-inspired vehicles locally known as Public Utility Vehicles (PUJ), or simply jeepney or jeep. This workhorse is an affordable mode of public transport with designated routes displayed on the windshield or painted on the sides. It is stretched to accommodate 25 people at max, and stops along the way to pick up or drop off passengers. Official reports have estimated that there are about 180,000 to 270,000 jeepney franchises all over the country, approximately 75,000 of which are found in Metro Manila. Furthermore, multiple studies have shown that jeeps are the most popular mode of transportation in the Philippines for millions of Filipinos who go to and from school and work daily. Who would have thought that mere hand-me-downs by the Americans from the World War II would be a staple to the present Filipinos after nearly 70 years since it made its first rounds? The famous jeepney is a product of the Filipinos’ ingenious innovation and creativity. Jeepneys made their first appearances in the country’s roads in the 1950s after

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the bloody World War II. Created using left-over parts of U.S. Willy Jeeps, jeepneys aided people back in the day, becoming a solution to the urban transportation system during the postwar crisis.

THE PHILIPPINES ON WHEELS

Jeeps are not just plain public means of transportation, but rather a symbol of the Philippine tradition and culture. It has become synonymous with Filipinos as a vehicle uniquely our own, a proudly Filipino masterwork. With its long history, it became a manifestation of the Filipino’s resilience, persistence, and creativity. As it progressed, jeepney owners started decorating their jeeps with bright paintjobs and striking colors and would display anything that they fancy, whether it may be famous cartoon characters or vast landscapes. From its exquisitely detailed sticker decals to its flashy décor, this became an exposé of the owner’s history, faith, worldviews, or anything that grabs his interests. This art on wheels does not only show to the rest of the world the Filipino people’s ingenuity, but it also showcases a vital part of being a true-blue Filipino – faith. Since roughly 86 percent of the country’s population is under Roman Catholicism, it is no surprise that most jeepneys are adorned with Catholic imagery, religious airbrush paintings, a small cross or Santo Niño figurine displayed near the money box, or a rosary hanging from the driver’s mirror. This is a reflection of Filipino devotion. What highlighted jeepneys as symbol of Filipino culture is when Sarao Motors in 1953, one of the early automotive

“It has become synonymous with Filipinos as a vehicle uniquely our own, a proudly Filipino masterwork. With its long history, it became a manifestation of the Filipino’s resilience, persistence, and creativity.”

out PUJs to aim transportation efficiency, one thing is definitely certain: they are still present and dominantly up to date. Surviving nearly seven decades of drastic changes and development, jeepneys are able to withstand the test of time. Their long-lived purpose remains nonpareil and always be a part of the Filipino DNA. It continues to surmount. The King of the Road remains indisputable.

manufacturers, soon started shipping jeeps overseas and showcased such vehicles in tourist exhibitions. This event benchmarked jeepneys as a Philippine icon. Today, jeeps are not just roaming the busy streets, they are also being flaunted on shelves in its miniature form.

A THUMBTACK AWAY

Regardless of its vital role in providing transportation services, jeepneys are notorious for their contribution to pollution and traffic congestion. A study made in 2016 by the Manila Observatory, a non-profit science research institute, have shown that diesel-fed PUJs contribute 15 percent of the particulate matter emissions, and also significantly contribute to Sulphur Oxides by 27 percent and Nitrogen Oxides by 21 percent in such emissions in Metro Manila alone. In 2017, the Duterte administration launched the Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) Modernization Program as a solution to the transportation inefficiency and its environmental threats. The said program calls for PUVs 15 years or older to be replaced by eco-friendly mini-buses, price tagged at PHP1.6 million ($30,000), that incorporate Euro 4 engines and boast safety features like speed limiters, accessibility features like Wi-Fi, ramps and seatbelts, closed-circuit television cameras, global positioning system, and a dashboard camera. The said program received backlash from transport groups, labelling it as “antipoor”. George San Mateo, a driver for three decades and head of Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (Piston), leads the resistance movement to “modernize” jeepneys. “Piston has no problem with modernization because we consider ourselves progressive. We are progressive, so we are not anti-development. But the problem with the modernization program, it is anti-poor and profit-oriented. Let us remember that jeepney commuters are some of the poorest of the poor in the Philippines,” said San Mateo in an interview with National Public Radio Inc. The 51-year-old also added that placing the blame for pollution solely on jeepneys is unfair in a city with so many other polluting vehicles, calling on President Rodrigo Duterte to scrap the current jeepney modernization program and focus on nationalizing the public transport system. “What we want in a modernization program...[is that] the framework should be socially just, democratic, public service-oriented, and its long-term perspective should be nationalization of public transport. But the government doesn’t want that,” said San Mateo. Being bullied by government regulations, exploitation due to high rising costs, and the Duterte’s administration push for the Jeepney Modernization Program, its survival is now threatened. Despite its declines and the extensive debates of phasing VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

“ FEATURE

The Truth in NUDE Lay bare and be stripped with the naked truth of pornography. By Philip Robert C. Alaban Artwork & Illustration Romari Charlz F. Diaz

After a tedious eight-hour shift, a nameless face in the heart of the hustling, bustling city settles down in his lofty bed. One of his hands fiddles idly with the waistband of his underwear and the other snakes down below his hips until it grips a familiar warmth. Just a few taps on his mobile phone bring up a frequently viewed website with the black and orange logo coupled with a motif of the same colors. As the “play video” icon is pressed, earphones plugged in the audio jack cuts off the moans that barely escape his speakers and the silence welcomes a long and drawn out hiss that escapes his lips. Instinct < Addiction

Regardless of who you are or where you come from, pornography or porn is something that may not be entirely new to you. Through depicting one, if not the most, of our instinctual desires, pornography has firmly embedded itself in

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our society since the dawn of civilization. The existence of porn dates as far back as the Paleolithic era, during which were the first known erotic depictions. In the 15th century, the manuscript “Allegory of Copulation” raised more than a few eyebrows in the crude depiction of sex in one of its pages: an image of a young couple having sex on a bench with the woman’s legs upright towards the sky on one end and a photo of a penis with legs, wings, and a bell climbing on the other side. As defined by the Oxford Dictionary of Psychology, pornography is the “explicit depiction, in pictures, writing, or other materials, of sexual subjects or activity in a manner intended to arouse”. Along with this intent to arouse comes an accompanying social stigma, and over the years, we have seen pornography grow alarmingly both in number, method, and popularity. Professionals from different disciplines have already begun to dissect a few of the sociological, psychological and physiological effects of pornography. At the same time, neurologists have also begun to outline which specific biological mechanisms enable pornography to produce its effects on viewers. Along with their survey on the Filipino pornography screen time, PornHub also published demographics of their frequent local viewers. On average, the Filipino visitor is 32 years old. Most visitors are relatively young, with 38 percent at 25 to 34 years old, followed by 35 percent who are 18 to 24. With the rise of the digital age, it shall come as to no surprise that handheld mobiles are the most used medium to view pornography, with the rise in viewership of 69 percent in 2016 to jumping to 77 percent in 2017, with “pinay”, “hentai”, and “pinoy”, as the most searched terms of Filipino patriots. In 2000, an international study entitled “Internet Pornography: A Social Psychological Perspective on Internet Sexuality” by William Fisher and Azy Barak, from the Universities of Canada and Israel, respectively, found that habitual viewing of pornography eventually leads to tolerance of sexually explicit material, thus, it would push individuals to seek out novel and unconventional methods and materials to receive and incite the same level of arousal. A real world example is when you are eventually desensitized by watching porn that is only between two people that you eventually indulge in viewing depictions of group sex, sadism-masochism, role playing, bestiality, and paedophilic material in order to get the same high that they once used to feel while watching porn between two people.

Behind the Works

In working toward an understanding of porn and addiction to porn, it is useful to undertake research on personality characteristics that incline individuals to actively seek out and view porn across the many forms of media available. Spectacular growth in the availability of sexually explicit material on the internet has created a niche for individuals to have anonymous, cost-free, and efficient access to an essentially unlimited range of sexually explicit text, still and moving pictures, and even audio. In a fashion never before imagined, men and women, not to mention boys and girls, can now acquire these materials effortlessly. According to Patrick F. Fagan, Ph.D. Director of the Center for Marriage and Religion Research and Family Research Council, an addiction occurs when the physical brain overtakes the mind. Research by Todd Love and his co-authors from the Society for the Advancement of Sexual Health, in Philadelphia entitled “Neuroscience of Internet Pornography Addiction” shows that the mesolimbic

dopamine (DA) pathway, which originates from the ventral tegmental area projects into the nucleus accumbens (NAcc). Commonly called the reward center, the NAcc, is heavily connected with pleasure and reward seeking. It then connects with three other key regions: the amygdale, hippocampus, and the frontal cortex to form a collection of integrated neurocircuits in the brain commonly called the reward system. This is particularly important because it is not the brain, but the mind which houses the conscience. The mind is where we get our feelings of right and wrong. The brain, on the other hand, doesn’t have a moral sense. Its primary function is only to keep itself alive. Therefore, since naturally occurring behaviors, especially sex, in this case, have evolved. In such that they activate the reward system since they reinforce behaviors necessary for survival, the

“It is useful to undertake research on personality characteristics that incline individuals to actively seek out and view porn across the many forms of media available.” individual now loses the ability to tell whether or not the addictive behavior is harmful or not. Pornography also depicts a distorted perception of reality since they present sexual acts as “a sporting event that amounts to sensual fun” with absolutely no consequences with regards to a person’s emotions and health. However, this is far from the case. Porn usually results in the acceptance of three beliefs. First, sexual relationships are merely recreational. Second, people are sexually driven, and third, people are sex commodities. In toto, they are called “permission-giving beliefs”, because they result in assumptions that these behaviors are normal or acceptable, and thus, are neither harmful to the viewer nor to anyone else. Indulging in masturbation while viewing pornography, which is a common practice for those who utilize it to deal with stress, further reinforce these permission-giving beliefs.

Endgame

However, as the age-old saying goes, “Too much of one thing can never be a good thing.” The question of whether or not erotic depictions are a “good thing” has been debated for numerous millennia. Basically, our brain’s natural instinct is to seek things out that make us happy and the things that give us a pleasurable sensation like eating, sleeping and having sex, respectively. The use and viewing of porn can easily become a habit, which will lead to eventual desensitization, boredom, distorted views on reality, and an objectification of both men and women. A greater amount of sexual stimuli at both appropriate and inappropriate situations become necessary to arouse

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habitual users, who we can loosely refer to as “addicts”, which in turn will lead them to pursue more deviant forms of pornography aside from the ones that they are accustomed to in order to satiate their festering sexual desires. In today’s media-saturated society, sanctions put into place in order to refrain adolescents from accessing and viewing porn are getting fewer and fewer, if not nonexistent at all. The “digital era” has become a window of opportunity for progress but serves as a double-edged blade when the porn industry harnesses this opportunity and abuses it for the sake of profit. In a survey by FHM dubbed as “The Yearend Survey” in 2012, it was found out that 94 percent of their target audience “watched pornography with no inhibition”. Out of this percentage, a whopping 59 percent answered that they preferred watching depictions of heterosexual intercourse, 16 percent indulge in viewing threesome, six percent in gangbangs, girl-on-girl pornography yielding nine percent and six percent

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being interracial. Nine percent of the respondents admitted that they were yet to engage in sexual intercourse. However, it is not commonplace for local surveys from skimpy publications such as FHM or PlayBoy to publicly furnish the demographics of their poll participants, so the ages and genders of their respondents remain unknown. An addiction to pornography is one of the hardest to treat, all the way up in the list along with alcoholism, smoking, and drug abuse. However, it can become the most satisfying. This is because it excites our core craving for sex. Sexual desire is one of the few which is both physical and emotional, which means it affects both physiology and psychology. When pornography is viewed, the physiological sensation of watching incites the psychological results of actually engaging in sex. While chastity and abstinence aren’t a common zplace in the context of today’s youth, the exercise of either or both is as rewarding psychologically as it is physiologically.

“The use and viewing of porn can easily become a habit, which will lead to eventual desensitization, boredom, distorted views on reality, and an objectification of both men and women. ”

FEATURE

Retelling A Seminarian’s Tale In the eyes of a former seminarian, the call to service entails the call to one’s discernment. By Jeff G. Tolentino Photograph Miguel Carlos J. Llamado

A life centered in service of the creator is laid for everyone. Yet, only a few ventures it. In every choice that one takes, a chapter of his life unfolds. Brimming with curiosity with the story he holds, I grasped my pen and the crumpled paper in my bag. The next thing I noticed is the ink spilling the life of a man who once took a journey towards the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience. Meet Roger Ric Amador, a native of Banate, Iloilo and a first-year student taking up Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Behind the khaki and green shades of fabric that hugged his body, Roger’s story tells more than just being a student. Unknown to some, he holds a tale of what he would describe as a “unique” chapter of his life.

The Gift of Obedience

At the young age of 19, Roger was able to discern within himself what path he wants to take. Influenced by his mother’s faith, Roger ventured deeper into the life of service. Feeling the passion in learning the ways of a religious life, he entered the St. Vincent Ferrer Seminary at Jaro, Iloilo and spent six years of his life learning the teachings of the Church. Although armed with determination in conquering his chosen path, the first weeks were not an easy start for him. “At first, I was not comfortable with the rules of the seminary but in time, I learned to adjust because of the people there,” he shared in Hiligaynon. During his stay in the seminary, the support that he received from his mother was unfailing. “She was the one who wanted me to enter in the seminary and she really did her best to support me. Eventually when I came to the second year and third year, I learned to love it. Singing praises and sharing his talents as a choir member in the seminary for him was fulfilling a duty. “In the seminary, everyone is given a part to do. Those who are talented in writing are responsible for the publication,” he shared, emphasizing that the seminary life does not just revolve around prayers but also gives way to self-exploration.

Through the Chapters

It has been a common belief that when someone enters the seminary, he heard a calling for the religious life. Roger, however, had none. He sees it as God’s mysterious way of shaping his life. “Back then I never really had the desire and ambition to become a priest or tackle the religious life, but at the end we mature and learn to be contented of the things that are given to us and accept the once unacceptable.” Gambling with chance on what is to be decided and facing the consequences that goes with it, he conquered the greatest challenge he had in his years in the seminary. “When I was on the fourth year, I wanted to go out of the seminary but I said to myself to give it a chance and so I took my grade 11 and 12 there.”

The life inside the seminary as what he puts it was “determined by a bell.” Each time the bell rings, a task begins. “The first ring of the bell in the morning would suggest to wake up and take a bath, the second one is for the Holy Eucharist and the third one is for breakfast and after that another task begins.” The usual day would start at 5:30 in the morning and end at 10:30 in the evening. When it comes to the use of cellphones, they use booths to contact their loved ones, but as what he calls as the Church’s way to adapt to advancement, cellphones are now permitted given that they use it only on a certain time allotted.

Footprints and Footnotes

Becoming a priest involves a long process and a lot of challenges to overcome. Roger shared that to be ordained, one needs to spend about 12 to 15 years in training to perfect the art of service to be a priest for the people. “People are given attention. When you enter the seminary, you will instantly become an extrovert and other than that you would have discernment in yourself to your strength and weaknesses.” What Roger wanted other people to know is that “entering the seminary does not mean that you would become a priest. Along the way you would be discerning what you really wanted to be.” Familiarized with the Church’s affairs, he clears the image of priest of the stains of controversy. “The sin that one member of the Church has committed does not generalize the church as a whole, being a priest does not exempt them from being humans susceptible to sin.” The same is applied to the members of the church. He further added that a “person can always commit sins but that does not define the church as a sinful organization.” Taking up Political Science, Roger wants to make a stand. He shared that “you don’t need to be a lawyer to make an impact, one can also be a teacher.” Packed with the communal value that he considers the most important value he learned, Roger emphasized that “you cannot disregard one person for all.” The smile in his face widened as he quoted Aristotle, “the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” A cold breeze blew and the rain started kissing the ground. We dashed in the rain and went our separate ways. Another chapter has ended. A page turns to start anew. VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

FEATURE

Dissipating Chain Reaction

Why should it be one of our nation’s top priorities to refute wrong allegations and correct misconceptions about vaccination? By Wilkienson C. Muro Artwork Romari Charlz F. Diaz

The issue on vaccination may not be a new topic to argue over these days but this is one important matter where people forget to establish one common understanding. The advantages until now cannot weigh the disadvantages that were somehow created by those “antivaccine”propagandists to persuade people not to get vaccinated. People are poisoned by the misconceptions surrounding them, thus, continuously ignoring the call of vaccination. Now, the menace tantamount to this problem breaks the

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invisible barrier created by those people with acquired immunity from vaccines. If not given the earliest response for five to ten years, it would be difficult again for all the nation to rebuild the so-called herd immunity.

LISTEN up!

The concept of “Herd Immunity” was first recognized back in the 1930s when A.W. Hedrich studied the epidemiology of measles in Baltimore and noticed that “after many had become immune to measles, the number of new infections temporarily decreased, including susceptible children.” Although the term was coined in 1923, which means an entire population’s immunity, this theorem was continuously used to exemplify to people the barrier created by groups of vaccinated individuals combatting the diseases’ herd immunity threshold.

This belief of facilitating the immunity of people who are unvaccinated for certain infectious diseases provide a special extension of protection imparted by the immunized groups. The unvaccinated individuals and in its apparent provision of a means to totally eliminate some infectious diseases grew firmer to keep up with those who are already immunized. A review published by the Oxford Journals pointed out the historic success of the global smallpox eradication program, dramatic increases in vaccination coverage stimulated by national programs and by the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), the commitment of several countries to eradicate measles, and international dedication to eliminate neonatal tetanus and to eradicate poliomyelitis from the world by the year 2000. Throughout the history of

vaccination, smallpox has been the only disease eradicated by its vaccine saving five million lives annually. We owe this to the Father of Immunology, Edward Jenner, who discovered the vaccine on smallpox 200 years ago. Based on a report by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), a further 16 million deaths a year could be prevented if effective vaccines were deployed against all potentially vaccine-preventable diseases. In all, vaccines have brought seven major human diseases under some degree of control - smallpox, diphtheria, tetanus, yellow fever, whooping cough, polio, and measles.

on the greatest number of individuals who will get immunized by vaccines to create enough proportion with those unvaccinated individuals to protect the few susceptible people to pathogens. However, for every infectious disease there is an estimated percentage of the so-called herd immunity threshold in order to carry out its societal effect. As an example, outbreaks of measles or rubella in communities can be prevented with immunization as high as 85 to 90 percent. With its current mortality rate of 1.1 million children a year, routine immunization must be achieved, not only in national immunization days, but every time a child is born. In a statistics released by UNICEF, 2.7 million measles infection cases can be prevented every year through proper administration and maintained threshold of immunity. For diphtheria, 260,000 cases can be prevented; for neonatal tetanus and hepatitis B, 1.2 million; for tuberculosis, 3.2 million; and for polio, 640,000. The World Health Organization (WHO) considered polio as the next disease to be controlled and eventually eradicated. Over 80 percent of the world’s children are now being immunized against the polio virus, and the annual number of cases has been cut from 400,000 in 1980 to 90,000 in the mid-1990s. If the year 2000 goal of eradicating polio is achieved, the United States will be able to save the $270 million a year that is currently spent on polio vaccination. In a review released by H. Cody Meissner, M.D., FAAP, most of the vaccines now in use are already available for several decades, but only in the last 15 years has the protection been extended to the majority of children in the developing world. Only about a quarter were being immunized when, in the mid-1980s, UNICEF and WHO called for a new commitment to regularly reaching 80 percent of infants by 1990. In most nations, that goal was reached and has since been sustained - saving over three million young lives each year. As frequent disease is also a major cause of malnutrition, immunization is also helping to protect the normal growth of millions of children.

ANTIVACCINE==ANTILIFE

GET VACCINATED NOW

In theory, herd immunity does not require everyone in a community to get vaccinated to be immune or to prevent the spread of certain infectious diseases. However, herd capitalizes

In the Philippine setting, the reputation of vaccination was greatly blemished when the issue on the Dengvaxia (vaccine for Dengue) surfaced. In a study revealed by the Department

of Health (DOH), the confidence in the effectiveness of vaccines dropped to 21 percent in 2018 from 82 percent in 2015, although 93 percent of the respondents believed that vaccines and immunization were important. The reports showed hesitancy in vaccine comes from the rise in cases of vaccine-preventable diseases in the country, to 36 percent in 2018. Further data displayed that from January to November last year there were 17,298 measles cases nationwide, compared to the 3,706 cases during the same period in 2017. In the latest report of Manila Bulletin, Jun Ryan Orbina, communication officer for EPI at WHO Philippines, stated that removing the scare or hesitancy in immunization and moving on from the fears on Dengvaxia seem to be the greatest challenge ahead. He further added, “We need to focus on core strategies of listening and engagement especially during immunization service delivery from health workers because they are still the most trusted information sources about vaccines and the immunization program.” DOH is now making their move to regain public trust when it comes to the benefits of vaccination. The department reinforced the established Republic Act (RA) No. 10152, An Act Providing For Mandatory Basic Immunization Services For Infants And Children, which mandates parents to subject children and infants to inoculation of the following vaccines: Tuberculosis; Diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis; Poliomyelitis; Measles; Mumps; Rubella or German measles; Hepatitis-B; H. Influenza type B (HIB); and, such other types as may be determined by the Secretary of Health in a department circular. Likewise, DOH is currently using the power of advertisements to encourage the parents to practice vaccination for their children. The idea of the “Herd Immunity” may seem impossible to achieve because of various problems in vaccination, however, the stand of the public to augment this program should be unwavering and continuous. The effect of herd has been beneficial for many decades now. Along with its establishment lies the possibility of its sudden deterioration. We should not wait for that, because of our ignorance or maybe passivity to keep up with what is protecting us from acquiring these infectious diseases will soon be the very cause of our extinction. Hear the call of vaccination. Hear the call of herd immunity. VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

ENVIRONMENT

Crossing Afloat the Stream of Thoughts

Ranging from different living aspects affected by flooding, from daily living to health and sanitary, flooding in Iloilo City is nonetheless an issue which should not be taken lightly By Chito Cezar P. Batoon, Jr. and Everild Dominique A. Camique Photograph Clyde Allen E. Sollesta Illustration Romari Charlz F. Diaz

Drip. Drip. Drop. The sound of raindrops continued to let themselves be heard as they hit the roof of my dormitory. At first, it was a just a mere drizzle that gradually progressed into a downpour. I heard the hurried steps of my fellow dorm mates going out of their rooms to see the situation outside the windows of the study hall. Staying inside my room, I let myself hear the rain as it fell on the rooftops. As I closed my eyes, I hoped that it will continue. For there will be no school tomorrow, if there is the flood. When the rain fell harder, it came crashing down, the flood gushing in and crossing across the pitch-black alleys. In the darkness, things lost their weight. Some things afloat, some are drowned. Located in the tropical climate zone of the Philippine archipelago, the island of Panay is hit by typhoons that are born in the Pacific Ocean annually. In addition, the city of Iloilo and its outlying extents, extending over low and flat land, are vulnerable to disasters and largescale flooding frequently during the rainy season. Every year, the flooding problem of the city causes millions of damages and unfavorable investment. From the remarkable successes and dismal failures in making solutions for somehow a Catch-22, it has always been a dilemma for the people on how to mitigate the problem and making it to a stop.

The So-Called Backbone of Progress

With the on-and-off rain in the past few years during rainy seasons, flooding has become a part of living of the Ilonggos. In the recent visit of House Speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, she addressed the Flood Control Project of the City constructed during her administration as the backbone of progress. The Iloilo Flood Control Project and the Comprehensive Drainage Plan is a long-term key to mitigate and solve the recurrent flooding in the city and outlying areas. The aim is to improve the living environments and sanitary conditions of the locality. It envisions to

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“The city of Iloilo and its outlying extents, extending over low and flat land, are vulnerable to disasters and large-scale flooding frequently during the rainy season.” consequently help develop and advance the economic status quo by setting in disaster prevention civil works in the state of the city and on Panay. The plan will address the perennial flooding problem particularly in the extent of low-lying areas sitting on the marshlands of the city. Started in 2008, the Php 5.5 billion project, financed through a loan from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation, involved the construction of the floodways and the improvement of the Tigum, Jaro, Iloilo and Aganan rivers. Congressman Jerry Treñas, the city mayor during Arroyo’s presidency, stressed the project helped deter floods that constantly affected at least 60 percent of the city and its low-lying areas susceptible to flooding. Treñas, in an article published by the Panay News, said of the flooding situation that affected the city, “We were always flooded whenever there were heavy rains. There was no development and people were always suffering. When this was completed, there was no more flooding and there was massive development in our city.”

The Dossier and the Thwart

With 37 barangays having high to very high susceptibility to flooding, according to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau in Region VI, it is surely a subject matter to be addressed. According to the 2012 Philippine Health Advisory of the Department of Health, typhoons hit the country around 19 times in a typical year. Flooding and damage to crops, houses and buildings resulted due to

the strong winds and heavy rains from each typhoon. The presence of floods leads to an increase risk of exposure to and transmission of diseases. It could be chalked to drinking contaminated water that lead to the development of foodborne and water-borne diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever, or vectorborne diseases such as leptospirosis and dengue. There are ways to prevent and minimize the potential transmission of the said diseases. These include the drinking of only safe and clean water, the proper disposal of human wastes, the correct handling and preparation of food such as washing and cooking the food properly, and washing one’s hands before preparing and eating food. The simple act of washing your hands is the best way to ensure the prevention of transmitting micro-organisms related to food-borne and water-borne diseases. When it comes to vector-borne diseases, cleanliness of the environment is of upmost importance. In the case of dengue, covering water drums and water pails prevents the mosquitoes from using them as breeding sites. Water containers should be cleaned once a week, and the gutters of leaves and devours should be cleaned so that rain water will not collect in such areas. In the case of leptospirosis, wading and swimming in potentially contaminated water or floor water should be avoided. The use of boots and gloves is important when one’s occupation requires exposure to contaminated water. Water may look so harmless and passive until its excessive quantities harm societies. Due to the occurrence of climate change, constant rainfall occurs leading to floods that do not only affect the environment, but also the people around us. Flood incidences have increased due to global warming and climate change, an adverse consequence of environmental pollution and abuse to nature. Nature is calling, and there is a need for help. The bottom line remains the fact that societies should try and minimize the negative impacts made to the environment. Doing this will safeguard that we will be able to curtail the frequency and mitigate adverse effects of natural disasters like floods. Flooding is surely a scary adversity, but it is always in the hands of human beings to ensure their preserve their safety, environment, and humanity.

source: Center for Disease Control and Prevention VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

A Volt of Volition

ENVIRONMENT

“Today’s wastage is tomorrow’s shortage.” By Erika Danielle M. Pepito and Wilkienson C. Muro Photo Credits Rappler, Gaisano Capital Iloilo Illustration Romari Charlz F. Diaz

In a household of five, at least three electric fans have been puffing air since the kids were up. To combat the stuffiness of the home, the air-conditioning unit is on the highest thermostat. The father seated at the head of the dining table is on a frenzy finishing his report due the next day. Relaxing on the couch is the mother while Googling housekeeping tips. The kids, in their competitive spirits, are engrossed on some mobile game application while huddled in front of the TV. The news reporter drones on how electric cooperatives and energy firms plan to surge their rates for them to cope with the demands of energy consumption. Another pans to the screen with a report on the increasing adverse effects of climate change if the use of energy is left unregulated. Then in a moment of pure coincidence, shrieks break the unseen boundaries of the busy home as the lights

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go out. It was only then that it dawned on the five, as they looked at each other’s faces lit up by their gadgets, that their ignorance could be the thief in the night ready to take away their luxuries because of their use and abuse of energy.

SYNERGY

On April 12, President Rodrigo Duterte signed into law the Republic Act (RA) 11285, or the “Energy Efficiency

and Conservation Act”. The law aims to regulate and coordinate energy efficiency and conservation measures on utilizing energy efficient technologies in buildings and create inclusion for energy conserving designs on buildings in issuing building permits. Under this law, the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Plan was also established, serving as the framework for energy efficiency and conservation programs, with its crafted policies, the promotion of efficient and judicious utilization of energy, increase in efficient energy use and renewable energy technologies, and the delineation of responsibilities among various government agencies and private entities. The National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Database is a centralized, comprehensive and unified database on the application and use of energy-efficient and renewable technologies, and other

relevant information about energy consumption. Through the passage of this law, the Department of Energy (DOE) rejoices as it has its own compass now to regulate the energy consumption, conservation and stability in the Philippines. In an editorial published by The Manila Times last January 19, 2019, Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian, who chaired the Senate Committee on Energy, stated that the Philippines is the last country in Southeast Asia to pass a law mandating conservation practices and providing incentives for energy-efficient projects.

SAVE-ALL

Reshmi Banerjee, in his academic journal entitled “Importance of Energy Conservation” published in the International Journal of Innovative Research in Advanced Engineering, claimed that energy conservation, an important element in the energy policy, does not only reduce energy services. It can also lead to increased environmental quality, national security, personal financial security, and higher savings. “Most of us forget that energy is available in abundance but it is limited and hence to maintain the quality of life, it is important that we use our energy resources wisely.” Energy conservation is deemed important because the rate of energy consumption and energy production are not the same. Some nonrenewable energy sources like fuel in the form of coal, oil and natural gas take thousands of years before it reaches its fully formed state. Energy resources are limited, not abundant enough to cater to the wants and needs of every human being. As much as energy sources are consumed at a faster rate, the sources of energy, once used up, cannot be renewed in another form or reused. It is vital to save energy to double up its generation. When a unit of energy is saved, it equated to two units of energy produced. Energy saving also constitutes to reducing the adverse effects of air pollution due to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Lesser energy use brings down the need to produce more energy.

STEPPING STONES

The demand for energy keeps up with the multiplying number of citizens, the succeeding rise of skyscrapers, the increasing congestion of vehicles along roads, and the comfort of technology that makes life at home or the workspace easier.

Some leading malls in the city of Iloilo have taken the green initiative to go after alternative and affordable power sources that could help in reducing the electricity cost. Gaisano Capital Mall in La Paz commissioned for a 1.03 megawatt (MW) solar rooftop system with Solenergy Systems Inc. and Energy Development Corporation. Inaugurated on January 11, 2017, it is the largest solar rooftop system in Iloilo. The system, designed to accommodate the mall’s medium voltage grid connection and to supply half of the mall’s daytime load, is projected to cut close to 840 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions annually. 5,800 sqm of the mall’s roof space is now occupied with Canadian Solar Inc.’s 3,680 photovoltaic modules, and the string inverters from Fronius International GmbH of Austria. Since December 2016, Robinson’s Place Iloilo, under Gokongwei Group’s Robinson’s Land Corporation, partnered with Solenergy Systems Inc. as well for a 613 kilowatt peak solar power system that could produce 815 MW hours yearly. The mall’s rooftop now has 2,404 pieces of solar panels, allowing the mall to save around a million pesos monthly. Four hundred ninety metric tons of CO2 emissions are expected to be allayed as well. Ushering the recent efforts of DOE, the bringing of the seventh leg of its E-POWER MO Energy Consumers and Stakeholders Conference to Iloilo last October 9 to 11, 2018 capitalizes on knowing other energy programs, opportunities and development plans and policies. In the same forum, Assistant Regional Director of DOE’s Energy Policy and Planning Bureau, Carmencita A. Bariso, presented and urged the Ilonggos to adopt the Philippine Energy Plan (PEP) 2017-2040 which will help secure the country’s energy needs over the three decades. Darkness devoured the five for almost an hour. Sweat trickles down the faces of kids as they asked their father to turn on their generator for a temporary power compensation. It turned out the household has ran out of gas for the generator. Battery stores gradually emptying each gadget, the mother tried to conserve the last bar of her cellphone to continue providing light for their children. As the gaze of the two parents meet, their pity to their kids gave them such a realization of becoming more prepared when it comes to any sudden – may it be long or short – energy loss.

https://www.statista.com/713287/energy-consumed-by-paper-production/ https://www.saveonenergy.com/learning-center/post/save-energy-at-school/

“Most of us forget that energy is available in abundance but it is limited and hence to maintain the quality of life, it is important that we use our energy resources wisely.” VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

CAMPUS

Nothing to Hide, Nothing to Fear

I don’t have anything to hide. But I don’t have anything I feel like showing you, either.

By Kent Lexter B. Co Artwork Romari Charlz F. Diaz

Computers are indispensable in today’s world and many individuals spend substantial amounts of time using them. The presence of these computers and smart devices connected to the internet has led to massive data collection, shared, and analyzed from users. 28

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Most of these data are collected from customers by businesses dealing with banking, insurance, healthcare, financial services, retail, e-commerce, manufacturing, and social networks. These data consist of transactional data, search data, and health and financial data, almost always including a lot of personal data. In addition, these data are considered valuable for the enterprise as they can be used for a variety of purposes, such as knowledge discovery, software development, preventing and detecting terrorism and other illegal activities, we cannot deny that this data is being stored. It is potentially available to anyone who is capable of stealing it. These data are considered to be sensitive as they contain their customers’ personal information. Therefore, sharing, offshoring, or outsourcing of such data for purposes like data mining or application testing should ensure that customers’ personal information is not compromised in any way.

FACEBOOK and YOU

Having 47 million active Facebook accounts, the Philippines is considered as “the social networking capital of the world.” A press of the like button here, an upload of a selfie there, turns the gears of a machine that stores a treasure trove of personal data. College of Liberal Arts, Sciences and Education (CLASE) Counselor Rovielyn Silhay commented on the heavy usage

of social media that, “People, especially the youth, could see “surveillance” as a platform where they can be given attention even into the smallest details. What to eat, what to wear, and etc., not all but most details.” As we sign up for Facebook, we share our name, gender, birthday, email and mobile number. The breach of our privacy starts there. As our usage increases, it gathers and stores more personal data, which can be used to target users with ads, including what users share and add, and their likes and clicks. If you look around your Facebook settings, you will find a list of your posts and activity, from today back to the very beginning. Every story and every photo you are tagged in can be seen. Every interaction such as liking a page or adding someone as a friend. Every like, every status change, and every search of another person on Facebook. Facebook may be free but they also have bills to pay and they need to make money. The information they collect is the price for using their service. This information is then sold to advertisers. It may be common knowledge that web services have ads but Facebook’s grasp on our personal data may be deeper than we thought. Most people would ignore advertisements and sponsored links. Clicks just don’t matter. Scrolling through adds solves the problem. However, the ads we, see on Facebook are actually working. Posts you see in your feed are changing your behavior. It makes us buy certain products, and it is happening regardless of ignoring the ads. The result of a study done by Facebook partnered with Datalogix in 2012, has shown that Facebook ads do work. The first 60 ad campaigns that were analyzed, 70 percent had a three times or better return-on-investment. In addition to this, half of the campaigns showed five times in return on investment. All these successes were done because of your private information. In 2019, Facebook earns an average of $383 per user. That means our interests, personality, relationships, and our privacy, those things that we considered priceless, gave it away for $383.

DO YOU HAVE CURTAINS?

In July 2016, the British government sold £150,000 of hi-tech spying equipment to the Philippines. The equipment included IMSI-Catchers, which are used to eavesdrop on telephone conversations, and surveillance tools to monitor internet activity. The reality of the government spying on its people is slowly becoming a reality. When discussing whether government surveillance and data mining pose a threat to privacy, many people respond that they have nothing to hide. The nothing to hide argument states that surveillance programs do not threaten privacy unless they uncover illegal activities, and that if they do uncover illegal activities, the person committing these activities does not have the right to keep them private. In Britain, for example, the government has installed millions of public surveillance cameras in cities and towns, which are watched by officials via closed circuit television. As a campaign slogan for the program, the government declares: “If you’ve got nothing to hide, you’ve got nothing to fear.” Eric Schmidt, former chief executive officer of Google once said, “If you have something that you don’t want anyone to know, maybe you shouldn’t be doing it in the first place, but if you really need that kind of privacy, the reality is that search engines including Google do retain this information for some time. It is possible that information could be made available to the authorities.” These arguments are one of the many debates between privacy and security. The consequences of these debate are enormous, for both privacy and security are essential interests, and the balance we strike between them affects the very foundations of our freedom and democracy.

Edward Snowden, a former Central Intelligence Agency employee, commented on the position of people that they “don’t have anything to hide,” that, “You’re inverting the model of responsibility for how rights work.” When you say, ‘I have nothing to hide,’ you’re saying, ‘I don’t care about this right.’ You’re saying, ‘I don’t have this right, because I’ve got to the point where I have to justify it.’ The way rights work is, the government has to justify its intrusion into your rights. When privacy is balanced against security, the scale often leans towards security. When we are balancing rights against government interests, it is needed that the balancing be done appropriately. Security and privacy often clash, but it doesn’t mean they should be on equal footing. There is a way to reconcile privacy and security. Instead of the usual, nothing to hide argument, we should focus on the more important issues placing security programs under oversight, limiting future uses of personal data, and ensuring that the programs are carried out in a balanced and controlled manner.

KEEP IT PRIVATE

As the Philippines is rapidly growing in the digital space, laws are necessary and important. Entities must be held accountable not only for what they do with user data and how they protect that data. The previous history of mishaps, these laws are a reminder that work has been done to prevent future errors. The Bill of Rights in the 1987 Constitution state that, “The privacy of communication and correspondence shall be inviolable except upon lawful order of the court, or when public safety or order requires otherwise, as prescribed by law.” The Anti-Wire Tapping Law (Republic Act No. 4200) says that while it is unlawful to record a conversation without the consent of all parties, any peace officer with a written court order can do so. The Human Security Act (Republic Act No. 10354), in cases of terrorism, also allows law enforcement officials to intercept and record “any communication, message, conversation, discussion, or spoken or written words,” with the use of any type of surveillance equipment or any means suitable. However, it does not allow the interception and recording of communications between lawyers and clients, journalists and their sources, doctors and patients, and confidential business discussions. In most cases, while the law may provide instances that authorize the government to surveil, a court must first lawfully order it. Cybercrime Prevention Act (Republic Act No. 10175) authorizes authorities “with due cause” to collect in real-time, traffic data – such as the communication device’s location – but not its content or identity. Data Privacy Act of 2012 (Republic Act 10173) requires personal information that must be collected for reasons that are specified, legitimate, and reasonable. Personal information must be handled properly and personal information must be discarded in a way that does not make it visible and accessible to unauthorized third parties. Privacy is essential to being a complete and fulfilled person. It illuminates how it can limit power, build emphasis on trust, freedom of thought, and speech. Data collection about the things we do shapes and produces our actions. People act differently under surveillance compared to people that enjoy some privacy. Rosa Luxemburg once said, “He who does not move does not notice his chains.” We can all pretend that the chains of mass surveillance are invisible but the constrictions that it enforces on us do not become any less effective. People should realize that right to be let alone is indeed the beginning of all freedom. It is a strong barrier between the world and our minds. To put it simply, privacy should be understood that not everything belongs to everyone. VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

Photograph Miguel Carlos J. Llamado

“The subtle and deadly change of heart that might occur in you would be involved with the realization that a civilization is not destroyed by wicked people; it is not necessary that people be wicked but only that they be spineless.” ― James Baldwin, The Fire Next Time

§ VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

CAMPUS

Chalk it Up to Technology

The digital era challenges educators to embrace the pedagogy of technology in the classroom. By Glaiza Rae D. Amable Photograph Daniel Jeff C. Telic Illustration Helda Mae P. Godoy

He entered the learning portal and was greeted by the sight of his students tinkering with their phones. As he cleared his throat, he captured every student’s attention. He turned to the blackboard, grabbed the eraser, and erased the scribbles made from the previous session. He grabbed a chalk after, and was poised to write the first term that would open the day’s discussion, when it occurred to him that he brought with him a projector and his laptop. He dropped the chalk then proceeded to set up the projector, mentally berating himself that gone are the days when the chalk dust gathers on the ledge after a lengthy class. Technology has blurred the lines and changed the rules of traditional method of teaching. The old sci-fic movie scenario where one could control everything around by pressing a button, typing a few keystrokes, or swiping a touchpad is no longer within the realm of fiction – now, it is a reality.

Traditional Practices

Teaching was a combination of information-dispensing, custodial child care and sorting out academically inclined students from others. The underlying model for schools was an education factory in which adults, paid

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hourly or daily wages, kept like-aged youngsters sitting still for standardized lessons and tests. An article from Cambridge Centre for Sixth-form Studies stated “teachers were told what, when, and how they teach. They were required to educate every student in exactly the same way and were not held responsible when many failed to learn. They were expected to teach using the same methods as past generations, and any deviation from traditional practices was discouraged by supervisors or prohibited by myriad education laws and regulation.” No wonder why many teachers simply stood

in front of the class and delivered the same lessons year after year, growing gray and weary of not being allowed to change what they were doing. “As far as I can remember, the traditional education method, which is still widely used, ensured that students were rewarded for their efforts and exercised clear rules to manage their behavior. Teachers used to communicate the knowledge and enforced standards of conduct based on the established customs that have been used successfully in schools over many years,” said Master Teacher III Irene Valencia Deloso of Anilao Central Elementary School, who has been in the profession for 15 years.

Coping with Technological Change

Historically, the expectation has been that man should keep up with technology’s demands. However, understanding how the introduction and integration of new technology affects people should enable systems to be designed and implemented in such a way that the system enhances the work of the user. Deloso faced the dilemma as to whether she should use the traditional chalk and talk (C&T) method or the modern Powerpoint (PPT) presentation for her lectures. “It

has been two decades since I started my career as a teacher in Anilao Central Elementary School. Computers were not very evident that time. Chalk and board were my options during those days.” Even though information and communication technology has become increasingly prevalent in schools, she admitted that she first felt more comfortable writing on the board with a chalk than discussing her topics through a technological presentation. “I find C&T method as slowpaced than those PPT presentations because my students tend to follow the lecture more closely, and it maximizes their capability and comprehension in constructing dimensional structures to further represent a given problem - a skill they need to acquire.” On the other hand, this technological emergence demands that schools, and especially teachers, alter their strategies to incorporate the newest software and hardware to expand their students’ exposure to the latest sophisticated tools, further assisting the delivery of quality teaching. “If a teacher wants to use a creative approach, the devices could bring to life the most informative and interesting ways of teaching. Students could see that the learning process is not something standard and boring, but every day could bring them really new and fresh ideas, leading them to new information,” Independent Technology Author Olivia Geets said in her article. The complexity of learning to use and make the most out of new technologies often makes people anxious and reluctant to integrate them in their professional lives, but as technology continues to make giant strides to change education as more tech-driven, society has no choice but to follow its lead by evolving, too. “Instead of living in fear and intimidation about the uncertainty technology brings us teachers, we try to be competent and willing to embrace the possibility that technology can help improve the learnings of the youth,” concluded Deloso.

The New Role of Teachers

In this information technology age, it can be hard to get a grip on the evolving roles of teachers. On one hand, it seems that their role has grown immensely; they are now expected to be tech-savvy, computer literate, and at the cutting edge of education. According to Technical Content Writer & Educator Imran Topu Sardar, the role of teachers in the globalizing world is essential to improve the sustainable education with a prerequisite of inspiring and guiding the students in increasing employability skills with the digital tools. “Teachers are not the facilitator for learning of the students only, and now they are responsible for training them for increasing skills, expanding the mind, growing digital citizenships, critical thinking, and creativity as well as sustainable learning,” he added. The day-to-day job of a teacher nowadays is becoming one of guiding students through engaging learning opportunities rather than just receiving information passively, making sure that education school graduates are truly ready for the complex challenges of the world. Even Professor Judith Taack Lanier of Michigan State University explained, “The fundamental job of teaching is no longer to distribute facts but to help children learn how to use them by developing abilities to think critically, solve problems, make informed judgments, and create knowledge that benefits both the students and society.” Leading the way are thousands of teachers who are rethinking every part of their jobs – the strategies they employ; their relationship with their students; their responsibilities; the content of the curriculum; what standards to set; and even their preparation. In short, they are reinventing themselves and their occupation to better serve schools and students. Gone were the days with all the chalk dusts

“The complexity of learning to use and make the most out of new technologies often makes people anxious and reluctant to integrate them in their professional lives, but as technology continues to make giant strides to change education as more tech-driven, society has no choice but to follow its lead by evolving too.” everywhere, but seeds of such a dramatic transformation are starting to bloom. Yes, mistakes are part and parcel of the digital era, but what is left for everyone is to experience the whole new world it makes available for them and be people who are “in the know” when it comes to modernizations. VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

Ink-Credible Tattoo or Taboo? ARTS AND CULTURE

Like a camel passing through the needle’s eye, changing the stigma on the modern tattoo culture remains a challenge among those who patronize it. By Glaiza Rae D. Amable Photograph Steven John N. Sumbing Artwork Romari Charlz F. Diaz

Beneath an orchestra of faint buzzing sounds and tribal designs, an artist sits intently by her canvas. The wrinkled matriarch is ready to dip an ink via a single needle that is soldered onto a bar, which is attached to an oscillating unit to permanently sign her client’s skin. Beads of blood bubble as she pierces the intact epidermis to form wavy, uneven lines and patterns of teeny tiny dots. “Don’t be afraid just because I look like this,” she disclaims as she motions to her piercings and the permanent sleeve of ink in her right arm. “I still get insulting comments from others who cannot even look straight into my eyes,” she added referring to the underlying stigma against tattoos and the people who have them.

EXPOSITION

“I hoped that people nowadays will be open-minded and welcoming to the idea of tattoos, but then again, we are in the Philippines,” she said in Hiligaynon, implying our country’s deeply-embedded conservatism. “Even if they will not say it out loud, a lot of people still consider tattoos as a sign of rebellion, emotional instability, or a general attitude of social deviance.” *Rhea, 49, has been a personal tattoo artist for eight years, and the human body is her Sistine Chapel. A person like her is one of the victims of the misconceptions and criticisms by many minds on tattoos. According to a research carried out by

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the University of Portsmouth, it showed that 15.64 percent of women feel judged because of their tattoos compared to just 9.54 percent of men. The reason behind this is “men’s perceptions of tattooed women as less attractive, but more promiscuous,” said Psychologist Nicolas Guéguen from the Université de BretagneSud. “I remember my father did not speak to me for days because I had my first tattoo done. They thought I was into gangs and bad habits,” Rhea recalled. “He did not even support me when he found out that I wanted to be a tattoo artist.”

FROM SUBCULTURE TO POPCULTURE

Contrary to what others might tell you, tattoos did not originate from bad people who had an impulsive desire to lash out and spent in the next years in regret. These marks have been inked or carved into human skin since the Neolithic times. In that era, having tattoos meant that one was a person of rank and power or had numerous battle accomplishments. Tattoos were also believed to have magical qualities, and until

now, indigenous people still sport these creative marks, such as the Bontoc Igorot, Kalinga, and Ifugao. Currently, the only living tattoo artist who still practices traditional tattoo ritual is Apo Whang-Od, from the tribe of Butbut in Buscalan, Kalinga. In an interview with BBC Travel, Whang-Od explained, “I want people to know that the traditional tattoo is not just a graphic – every design represents something. I want them to have tattoos not just to be in fashion, but because the designs they choose mean something about them.” As such, getting “tatted” nowadays has become increasingly upscale and artistic. The most important thing to note about

“Traditional tattoo is not just a graphic – every design represents something.” the sociogenesis of the tattoo is that it has morphed from a form of subculture into a form of popular culture that definitely brought tattoos into the mainstream eye and stripped away quite some of the earlier significance, but one thing is certain - this form of art is undeniably the modern way for everyone to express their personalities, passions, and persuasions in a way that is quite beautiful.

A CHALLENGE FOR INKED PEOPLE

According to researchers Kristin Broussard and Helen Harton, despite the increasing popularity of tattoos nowadays, tattooed individuals are particularly vulnerable to workplace discrimination. Perceived to be the art of the unruly, this form of art is often seen as an undesirable trait amongst employees -fearing that they will give the wrong impression to clients and customers. A recent study conducted by DPG Plc. surveyed 1,000 hiring decision makers, asking them how tattoos were perceived in the workplace. Unsurprisingly, it was revealed that 64 percent of employers think that tattoos are an ‘undesirable feature in the workplace.’ Adding, 54 percent of those surveyed said they think that tattoos have a ‘negative impact’ on the workplace. “When I was a fresh college graduate, I tried to look for a job to sustain my daily needs. Some of my potential employers frankly said that they don’t hire people with tattoos,” she recalled. “Since then, I have always asked myself

in what ways will my tattoos affect my work performance,” she concluded.

GLIMMER OF HOPE

However, until last 2014 during the administration of Benigno Aquino III in cooperation with the United States (US) and Philippines (PH) tattoo communities and officials from Republic Insurance, an international awareness and antidiscrimination campaign called ‘No More Hiding !’was launched to get rid of discrimination against Filipino tattoo artists and clients. This continues in full-force with President Rodrigo Duterte’s Administration to having series of informal talks to develop a professional tattoo network registration throughout the Philippine islands which would unify all artists into one internationally recognized professional industry network. “In the Philippines, it’s a fact [that] discrimination has negatively affected the livelihood of millions of artists and tattoo lovers. I have seen with my own eyes Filipinos from Metro Manila to Mindanao Province, who have faced harsh criticisms, unemployment, out-

right rejection, all leading to oftentimes a less affluent and stable lifestyle despite their true inner talents….We along with our friends at Republic Insurance, celebrities and in politics, intend to change all of that,” said US Executive Publisher Kareem Jackson of KA&CO America LLC in an interview. Now, Philippine tattoo artists are emerging across the national and international borders as some of the best and most affordable in the business industry with getting so much appreciation and recognition Surely, this reform paved way to Rhea’s liberation from the chains of her freedom to express and the right to get employed, but the reality for sporting tattoos as out of the culture for some people up until today is still inevitable. As she finishes applying a protective layer of ointment to her work, she is positive that the negative stigma being perpetuated is just a generational phase that society will grow out of. And if there is specific group who can change this idea, it is hopefully going to be the current generation of millennials. Until then, she is crossing her fingers, waiting and hoping. VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

Payao:

The Fabled Taramnan Unfolds ARTS AND CULTURE

There are no shortcuts to any place worth going. Grandeur awaits, history unfolds as shown by these stairways to the sky. By Chito Cezar P. Batoon, Jr. Photographs Bj B. Escarilla

Right foot, left foot. Drink water. Breathe. Slowly, you ascend. Slowly, you climb. Slowly, you move forward. The sky was clear and scorching heat of the morning sun was unforgiving, shining its rays directly above us. The steep ascend along the narrow ridges, open slopes, and greener pastures was quite taxing. It was with the last leg of assault; the last push is tiring but with the panoramic view of the mountain ranges enveloped with Antique’s hidden Payao or rice terraces, ‘Taramnan’, beckoned our foray into the hidden treasures of Panay. The nomadic tribes of the Negritos and Atis were believed to be the earliest people who settled in Panay. Oral history relayed it as the “Legend of Maragtas”, which encompasses stories about Datus, their arrival in the island, and the pact to the natives.

The Augustinian Mirror

The island of Panay was then divided into three “sakups” or parts: Hantik, Aklan, and Irong-Irong; this legacy is commemorated annually in Hantik or Antique during the Binirayan Festival. Antique, the home of a historic festival, majestic mountains, cascading waterfalls, white sand beaches, and diverse flora and fauna, also cradles the veiled treasures of the indigenous ancestors, particularly the Iraynon – Bukidnons who prefer to live in the mountains than in lowlands. Their relative isolation to preserve their community against piracy made them tread a diverse cultural path passing through generations to generations. A nomadic society sustained by agriculture, it resulted to the innovation of the Karay-a culture – Antique’s Payao or Antique rice terraces.

Uncovering: The Iraynon – Bukidnon Hidden Treasure

“These 200-yearold rice terraces create a landscape and a panorama of expression, showing harmony between humankind and environment.”

It was, for the longest time, that these terraces remained undiscovered. Locals in the communities were aware of its existence, and for them those were just fields in their backyards, serving as a legacy from their ancestors that was just tilled for them to supply rice for the community. With modernization and technology, the unseen rice terraces were discovered. In 2014, Emmanuel Lerona, an instructor in the University of the Philippines – Visayas and co-founder of Panay Bird Club, noticed in the three-dimensional virtual map of Google Earth the images which resemble the feat of ancient engineering in Cordillera’s Banaue Rice Terraces. These terraces are found along the mountain range of Mt. Madja-as, in Brgy. General Fullon, Valderrama and Brgy. Capnayan, Laua-an. These 200-yearold rice terraces create a landscape and a panorama of expression, showing harmony between humankind and environment. From a generation to another, the local community’s ancestors have their life labor and efforts etched in the contours which enveloped the mountains along the heart of the island of Panay.

Ancestral Domain

The entire expanse bounded by rolling hills and mountains holding its distinct charm is collectively owned by the Iraynon – Bukidnon community, also known as Igkadluman, which was issued a certificate of ancestral domain title in 2011. The ‘payao’ or rice terraces are a testament of their culture as an agricultural society and their tradition formed years ago which are still integral. Each family that is assigned a parcel of land has a long tradition of preserving and maintaining the terraces. With 10 families every mountain, the protection

and safeguarding of the terraces for the next generation is ensured. In a published article written by Biodiversity Researcher Flord Nicson Calawag in the Philippine Daily inquirer, issue with regards to the discovery of the ‘payao’ in Antique shows the resourcefulness of the locals. “Antique Rice Terraces is a continuing heritage because we are motivated and inspired not only to preserve but also to expand our rice fields,” said Joel Viceda, one of the teachers in General Fullon, as mentioned in the report. With such ingenuity, the Iraynon – Bukidnon has consistently passed a legacy of their agricultural knowledge that has now produced vast lands of mystic cultural landscapes and contours depicting intergenerational equity. Intergenerational equity, in a sense that their methods in farming and agricultural innovations were done without the danger for the next generation to utilize resources available.

Phase Shift

The terraced landscape and vista of historical feats is highly vulnerable because of the pressure they face in today’s shift in human society. The priceless contribution of the natives should be preserved for it is a mirror of how innovative the people became amidst the lack of modernization and technological advancements. Protection of these unveiled jewels is an epitome of how feats of heritage in ethnic communities are preserved. Conservation efforts should be subsequently undertaken because of its importance to the indigenous communities, in which they consider as the place adequate for living. Recognizing the importance of the rice terraces in the survival and identity in the shift in society is vital, for these are all perfect examples of the balance of nature. Proactive conservation of the ‘payao’, strengthening of indigenous knowledge practices, and the promotion of agricultural development and biodiversity protection are more important than mindless and whimsical change. The Visayan “payao” or rice terraces, Taramnan in Karay-a, is a cultural treasure preserved from generations to another. A treasure of ingenuity and of intergenerational equity. This proves that Luzon is not the only region capable of creating such feat, creating manmade structures anchored on history and cultural ethnicity. On the other hand, it proves that all Filipinos, from the farthest point to the other, are all capable of creating practical feats of engineering and architecture, being able to utilize resources to its utmost usage and for the preservation of nature while living in harmony with it.

VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

Looking at my watch, I saw that I still had 10 minutes to spare. I crossed my fingers and will the car in front of us to get a move on. Two minutes later, the jeepney finally drove, and continued its route past Atrium, YMCA, and finally, it reaches my destination. I hurriedly alighted the jeep, then crossing the street with caution and haste, ran to the entrance of Cinematheque Centre Iloilo. After quickly filling up the form, I paid the fee and took the ticket that the security guard was handing out to me. Secured with the knowledge that I arrived just in time, I walked to the door leading to the cine-ma with little haste. I entered the room and was greeted with the familiar sight of a large, white screen in front of me. As the lights started to dim, and sounds began to fill room, I sat back and relaxed in my chosen seat.

A Tradition

ARTS AND CULTURE

An Avenue for the Art of Filmmaking “Supporting local artists combines discovering new things and connecting with other people, which makes the experience twice as much fun and exciting as it would be when discovering new things alone.” - Nicolette Cetrulo By Everild Dominique A. Camique and Jielyn Anne B. Bastian Photograph Bobbiejo M. Healey Illustration Reynelyn P. Yorac

The Augustinian Mirror

Film has always been a part of the Filipino culture. Many decades have passed and several films have come and gone. With the everchanging interests of its audience, local films fall short, wherein mainstream films almost always a romantic comedy, thus having predictable plot lines and with the addition of Hollywood films dominating the market. Despite this, low-budget, independent, or “indie” films began to rise, and small production houses are flourishing, paving the way for the recognition of small filmmakers in the local scene. This arises a need to promote local films in the market, and supporting the would-be filmmakers in the near future. Under Republic Act No. 9167, the Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP) was established, where it serves to “support the development and growth of the local film industry.” One of its projects come in the form of a small cinema, or “Cinematheque,” an alternative venue that showcases Filipino and international cinema in the country. “It started as an experimental project as part of the Sineng Pambansa Program of the Film Development Council of the Philippines in 2012,” said Daniella Julieta Caro, the lead officer of the FDCP Cinematheque Centre Iloilo. According to Caro, the Filipino films to the Filipinos are the project’s flagships, and in order to do that, they created small cinemas across the country. The Cinematheque Centre was first established in Baguio, then it was followed by another venue in Iloilo. There was also one in Marawi City, but due to some reasons, it was closed. Now, there are Cinematheque Centres

in Bacolod, Manila, Davao, Zamboanga, and Nabunturan, Compostela Valley.

A Cinema

Each Centre holds events every month that are anchored on a specific theme. These include special screenings, and other activities such as exhibitions and performances which incorporate films with other forms of art, such as poetry and photography. The monthly films are curated by the central programming committee, along with the classic and contemporary films provided by the embassy partners of the FDCP, through its Film Cultural Exchange Program (FCEP). “We also feature films from other provinces, such as from Cebu or Davao. Every last Wednesday of the month, we have this special short programs,” said Caro, on the featured short films. “You can come here [in] the afternoon and watch for free.” Cinematheque Iloilo also gives a chance for films from other universities exclusively to be showcased in the Centre which they call, ‘University flix’, similar to our very own Sine Agustino. According to Caro, they already have initiated before the ‘University flix’ but was not sustained due to lack of

response. However, they want to revive this but they will program it in advance. Ilonggo films are also showed at the Cinematheque Centre. She added that whatever short films are featured here in Iloilo, it was also featured at all Cinematheque Centres across the country. “We just can’t show any film,” Caro remarked, “We have to ask permission from the producer, [and] we have to agree [on] the price, [since] we’re selling at a lower price than the cinema.” Save for the short films being shown for free, the regular price of the films are priced at 100 pesos, and international film festivals are shown for free.

A Learning Experience

In addition to the films presented to the general public, the Centre also holds workshops on directing, scriptwriting, editing, cinematography, and all the other aspects of filmmaking. While Cinematheque Centre Manila holds the workshops monthly, the regional Cinematheque Centres holds them quarterly. One of their workshops was on cinematography with TM Malones, as part of their Planting Seeds: Basic Workshops on Filmmaking 2018 series. One of the attendees, Ana

Besquillo Saul, an Augustinian BS Mass Communications student, loved her experience at the said workshop. “I’m interested in films that’s why I signed myself in, for an affordable amount they got one of Iloilo’s best cinematographers,” shared Saul, “The participants were really into it too, not only [did] we [learn] from our speaker, we also learned from each other.” From the learnings she acquired from that event, she applied it in her production in school. For aspiring filmmakers like Saul, learning the basics and the added insight and from an expert really helped her, in terms of output. “I hope their planting seeds workshops will just continue,” said Saul. The progression of one’s craft is cultivated, with enough dedication and perseverance. Bringing attention to these artists, and the continuance of support for their pursuits are of upmost importance in keeping the artistry of local film alive and thriving. Offering films and filmmaking workshops at an affordable price range, Cinematheque Centre Iloilo continues to support local artists and films, paving the way for the betterment, and promotion of film culture in Iloilo City.

VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

ARTS AND CULTURE

Palay in Peril

While most Filipinos wail of the unbearable rises on the mercury, farmers have to keep their footing firmly rooted with the threat of climate change derailing their livelihood. By Erika Danielle M. Pepito Photograph Bj B. Escarilla

Although his back aches after hours of plowing the soil for another crop to be planted, he carries on with the last stretch of land he has to tend to. The scorching heat of the sun, at its highest point, and the grumbling of his stomach did not stop him from planting what is considered as the indispensable food on the table of every Filipino family. 40

The Augustinian Mirror

He looks on to his humble bahay kubo and hears the youthful voices of his toddlers and the gentle mothering tone of his wife, telling the kids to wait a little longer for the paternal figure before they can finally eat. He hurries to plant the remaining rice crops then strides to the hut, greeted by his family. As he perches on the head of the table, he cannot help but feel somber while watching his children share a cup of rice and a fish for lunch. He then glances at his wife who wipes at her perspiring forehead as she eats her meager fill as well. The farmer’s eyes wander to the rice fields, and he says a silent prayer that hopefully there is a future for him and his family, brighter than the gleam of

sun rays that hit his back every time he tills his land.

DOWN TO THE LAST GRAIN

On March 4, 2019, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte signed Republic Act No. 11203 or the Rice Tariffication Law which led to the lifting of the quantitative restrictions that regulated the amount of imported goods, rice supply in this matter, to the country. This is to ensure that there is no rice shortage. This new law, the “biggest revamp yet in the agriculture sector”, is a response to the PhP 36 billion loss of the Philippine agriculture due to climate change-induced weather patterns. Such

threat to the national food security is chalked to the neverending context of climate change and an obvious result of our ignorance to the call of need to change our old ways. This alarming phenomenon concretizes the effect of climate change in the Philippines, a longstanding problem that haunts Filipinos in every angle you choose to see the issue. Aside from the squandering of resources that lead to the abuse of such and the increasing of global temperature, it leaves farmers with lesser harvest and affects the larger society as it threatens food security, which may lead to economic destabilization.

ON THE FENCE

“Think of climate change as a slow and painful death, not only for this planet, but also for the human race. To see this matter in a bigger picture, start making the necessary steps of mitigation and adaptation before the very last cup of rice is served on a plate.”

Rising greenhouse gas concentration in the atmosphere, burning of fossil fuels, and land use change are the major culprits behind climate change. Typhoons, an example of a climate change-induced natural disaster, dragged down the Philippine agricultural sector’s growth from 3.9 percent in 2017 to a staggering one percent the succeeding year. Because of this, the Department of Agriculture failed to hit most of its production targets for the subsectors, except for the poultry industry. The vulnerability of the country to climate change is also caused by its geographical location, red flagging its susceptibility to super typhoons and tropical storms that swamp across the country and leave farms and planting lands barren. Although the concerned government unit has pushed for counter effective measures, such as adjusting its planting calendar in 2019 and utilizing rice lands not within the typhoons’ usual track such as Samar, Lanao del Sur, Zamboanga, Tawi-Tawi, Leyte, Bohol, Palawan and some parts of Central Mindanao, and expanding the credit loan for further assistance to affected farmers and fishermen, climate change remains a challenge to be defeated. Describing climate change as a “day-to-day problem”, Duterte during the Asia-Pacific Healthy Islands Conference 2018 in Davao City called on the 194 country parties who pledged to the 1992 Paris Agreement to be true to their word of lowering the global temperature increase to two degrees Celsius. Formally known as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), it became a leading framework to encourage nations to adapt a unified response to the ongoing problem. The Philippines signed the UNFCCC on its Independence Day of 1992 and took part in its ratification on August 2, 1994. It ultimately aims “to stabilize greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that will prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system”, as stated in the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration website. Undoubtedly, a lot still needs to be done to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to potential sustainable solutions. It has been said time and time again, that a simple flick of the light switch or the reduced use of automotive vehicles, when done collectively, can be of huge difference. The effects of climate change that we feel and complain about should serve as timely reminders that the only time to move and triumph over this quandary is now. Think of climate change as a slow and painful death, not only for this planet, but also for the human race. To see this matter in a bigger picture, start making the necessary steps of mitigation and adaptation before the very last cup of rice is served on a plate. We feel the climate’s patterns shifting. When will we find it in ourselves to fight climate change’s formidability that endanger the only home for the future generations? The answer lies within our own hands. If this slow death is what this nation really wants, then it is the kind of death it has to be. VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

ARTS AND CULTURE

Malabong Ugnayan Makabagong teknolohiya, panibagong mukha ng komunikasyon Ni RJ Junsay Dibuho at Ilustrasyon Romari Charlz F. Diaz Retrato Erika Danielle M. Pepito

The Augustinian Mirror

Taong 2000, hindi pa masyadong uso ang paggamit ng cellphone sa mga estudyante at tanging ang mga nakakaangat sa buhay na mga bata lamang ang mayroon nitong kagamitan.

Mag-aalas sais na ng hapon nang makarating si Ella sa kanilang tahanan. Pawang normal lamang ang lahat sa kanilang tahanan hanggang sa makita niya ang nanlilisik na mata ng kanyang nakakatandang kapatid. “Mama, ito na ang magaling mong anak,” ani ng kanyang Ate. Mahinahon lamang ang kanyang ina sa pagsasalita, “Ella, ano itong ibinalita sa akin ni Tita Emily mo na may tinatawagan ka raw na binata sa landline nila. Tapos cellphone number pa ng lalaking iyon ang tinatawagan mo at ang malala pa ay Melisa ang pakilala mo. Kainaman ka ng bata ka. Umabot ng tatlong libong piso ang bill mo.” Tahimik

lamang si Ella dahil pawang katotohanan lamang ang isinasambit ng kanyang ina. Taong 2018, laganap na ang paggamit ng mga social media networking sites at mga high tech na kagamitang pangkomunikasyon. Hawakhawak ni Ella ang kanyang touch screen na cellphone at nakikipanayam sa isang dayuhan; panibagong katauhan na naman ang nakasalang sa kanyang palabas na inihahandog.

Puno’t Dulo

Noong dakong una ang tanging paraan upang makapagpalitan ng mensahe ang mga tao ay sa pamamagitan ng telegrama at pagsusulatan o kaya naman ay kung magkikita ng personal. Nang maging popular ang paggamit ng kompyuter noong 1970 at nagsimula ang paggamit ng “cellular telephone network” noong 1984 ay naging bahagi na ng pang-araw-araw na buhay ng mga tao ang “digital computer technology”. Ang mga ganitong klase ng teknolohiya ang siyang naging daan para sa mabilisang

sense that actually lead to development, social awareness but it could also cause harm it has its disadvantage like it can cause panic, hysteria, and anxiety to people so that’s why we need to educate the public on how to responsibly use these social platforms at the same time they have to be vigilant. They have to know to differentiate fake news or misinformation from what is true.” Kagaya nga ng sinabi ni Pineda sa panayam ng The Augustinian, dapat ay alalahanin ng mga tao ang limang C’s (Content, Context, Communicator’s Identity, Creators Intent, Consequence) sa pagtukoy kung wasto at totoo baa ng impormasyong kanilang nababasa o natatanggap. Nasa kamay pa rin ng mga tao kung paano nila gagamitin ang makabagong teknolohiya para sa epektibong komunikasyon ang mabura ang malabong ugnayan sa ating lipunan.

komunikasyon ng bawat mamamayan. “Marshall McLuhan, he predicted that the world would become one global village. His insights highlights the concept electronic thermo system which correspond to media that could integrate every corner of the world, every citizen and that geographic boundaries would be diminished and that’s what’s happening now especially with the introduction of social media especially the proliferation of social media,” paliwanag ni Leonard Pineda, Information Officer ng Philippine Information Region VI. Ayon sa isang ulat na nailathala ng American Alliance for Childhood noong 2007 ay lubhang nakakaapekto ang pagunlad ng teknolohiya sa pisikal, sosyal, at intelektwal na abilidad ng mga kabataan.

Sa Kalagitnaan ng Pag-unlad

Sa pag-aaral nina N. Botting at G. Conti-Ramsden na “The role of language, social cognition, and social skill in the functional social outcomes of young adolescents with and without a history of SLI” napag-alaman na sa “clinical level” ay mayroong mga negatibong epekto sa sosyal at emosyonal na “development” at “functioning” ng isang indibidwal at nagdudulot ng pangmatagalang epekto sa “general well-being” ng isang tao. “The advancement in technology in terms of communication has both positive and negative effect. It’s inevitable that the advancement in technology has improve in communication process, so with that it has change lifestyle of people and somehow ease the world in communication. For media practitioners, it has change the landscape of data gathering and presentation of news. But the sad thing is that, it also has

done some harm. There is a different impact of introducing social media as an instrument for communication as compared with other platforms like radio and television,” saad ni Pineda. “Kahit na nakakatulong ang teknolohiya para makipag-ugnay ang dalawang tao ay mayroon pa rin malaking posibilidad na hindi sila lubusang magkaintindihan. Hindi rin masisigurado kung agad na maisasaayos ang mga hidwaan sa hindi nila pagkakaintindihan,” ani ni Erika Danielle Pepito, estudyante ng BS Psychology. Sa malayang pakikipagtalakayan, ang mga pangungusap ay kadalasang malabo at hindi binibigyang tuon ang pagsunod sa balarila kaangkop ang mga natural na paghinto, pag-uulit at tempo. Hindi tulad ng komunikasyon sa pamamagitan ng panitikan ay nakikita ang totoong emosyon at ekspresyon ng mukha para sa mas epektibong pakikipag-unayan. Ang lakas, tempo at tono ng boses ng nagnanais magpahiwatig ng mensahe ay nagbibigay nang mas makabuluhang paraan ng pakikipagtalakayan. Paliwanag ni Pineda, “Responsible sharing of information especially now it’s inevitable that social media is no longer a luxury but a necessity. If you are not part of social media then you are definitely an outcast. Based on a survey on Philippine usage released by a status report of PR Social, in the Philippines, the Filipinos would spent 10 hours and two minutes online so its halfway of the 24 hours spending their time online and then there are already 76 million social media users, 75 are on FB so that’s how crucial for information officers to really advocate responsible sharing of information and make sure information is actually very potent. Its potent in the VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

The Internet of Trust and Transaction SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

It appears that once again, the technological deities have unleashed another power. Birthed by an unknown individual or entity with unclear motives, at an indefinite time in history, this power, is now at our service —to transform the economic core and the old structure of human affairs for the better. That is, if we will it. By and Artwork Kent Lexter B. Co Illustration Reynelyn P. Yorac

IN SEARCH OF THE TRUST PROTOCOL

29 years ago, Sir Timothy John Berners-Lee, best known as the inventor of the World Wide Web wrote: “When we link information in the Web, we enable ourselves to discover facts, create ideas, buy and sell things, and forge new relationships at a speed and scale that was unimaginable in the analogue era.”

The Augustinian Mirror

In that statement alone, he has foreseen search, publishing, e-commerce, e-mail, and social media, all at once. The Bitcoin equivalent to that type of foresight by someone who made something remarkable can be found in Satoshi Nakamato’s 2008 paper, “Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System,” possibly the origin of modern blockchain-based cryptocurrency technologies. Bitcoin is a digital currency that does not have a tangible element to it. Think of it like a US dollar or the Philippine Peso, except it is not a currency of any particular country. Currently, there are limited markets you can spend it on, but it has a lot of neat advantages. For example, you can send any small fraction of a Bitcoin to another account or any large number you’d like, so long as you have sufficient funds. In this paper, Bitcoin’s foundation is established with a set of rules—in the form of distributed computations—that ensured the integrity of the data exchanged among these billions of devices without going through a trusted third party. Bitcoin was designed to be a peer-to-peer electronic transaction and interaction without the help of financial institutions. Normally, a person would request a transaction and an institution that has all the information and sends the person what he needs. With Bitcoin, however, peer-to-peer works differently: each client has “part of the information” which enables transparency for each transaction. To support this, cryptographic proof is used instead of a central authority verifying transactions. This allows us, with full confidence to trust the network of computers that do all of this for us. As it turns out, the “blockchain” is that technology invention behind Bitcoin, and what makes this possible.

WHY BLOCKCHAINS MATTER

Blockchains can be described as a public spreadsheet that records transactions among users operating within a decentralized peer-to-peer network. Brent Anthony Tudas, a blockchain developer at UBX Philippines, explains that blockchain is a shared database and a

distributed ledger that has no central trusted authority. “Today, the internet, including data, is very centralized. How will people know if that database is legitimate? There is no trust. This is where blockchain comes in. It is a shared and is in a way, transparent. Everything that happens on the blockchain, everyone will know and be updated. Nobody can lie. It eliminates the need for trust,” said Tudas. Every computer connected to the blockchain, stores an up-to date copy of the data and updates automatically among all connected computers. With this, transactions are processed in blocks according to an ordering of a blockchain, forming a distributed ledger. This is especially useful in recording promises, trades and transaction. “Blockchain is also immutable. Any actions done by a person on the blockchain cannot be reverted. If an action has been done, it will be in its history forever. It is comparable to browsing history, except you can’t delete your history,” said Tudas. In the past, transacting business that was only possible offline, can be done online. Everything that has stayed physical and hand-written, such as property rights, electoral processes and identity, can now be created and maintained online. “Data placed in a blockchain is almost impossible to hack or to commit fraud. If data is centralized, you hack the server and its hacked. Blockchain is not centralized. The blockchain exists in many computers around the world. In order to hack it, you would need to hack 51% of those computers. It’s definitely hard” shared Tudas. Slow banking and paper-based processes, such as money wires and fund settlements, can now be done nearly instantly. The implications for secure digital records are enormous for the global economy. These includes things like the movement of money and assets. Yet, the possibilities of the blockchain networks go far beyond the movement of value.

so. With a student’s blockchain ID, potential employers can retrieve the person’s academic records and education history. The Singapore Customs authority has just launched a national trade platform (NTP) based on blockchain. The new IT ecosystem is expected to connect businesses, community systems and platforms, and government systems.

THE BUILDING BLOCKCHAINS OF SINGAPORE

Will Blockchain finds its place?

Smart cities are taking advantage of current technologies to improve infrastructure function and security. Singapore is a prime example of a smart city. Despite the high population density, it has excellent infrastructure and a high quality of life. Singapore’s Smart Nation project. Singapore has been welcoming startups around the world to develop new technology in its cities. Through this, it has been a welcome invitation to blockchain technology. Blockchain technology is used to share information between networks in a smart city securely. An example of this includes Singapore’s airline industry. With blockchain, we can ensure everyone involved in travel has access to the same, upto-date, verified information about arrivals, departures and delays. It can avoid situations where individuals might have outdated or conflicted information about their flight statuses. The Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP), a public institution of higher learning in Singapore established in 1963, is also adopting blockchain in its educational mission. NP is using blockchain to verify the authenticity of the polytechnic’s diplomas - the first education institute in Singapore to do

BLOCKHAIN IN THE PHILIPPINES:

When we hear of blockchain technologies in the Philippines, we think of Coins.ph. Coins.ph is a financial services platform that serves as an e-wallet and mobile dock for multiple bank accounts, allowing users to send and receive money across users. It is among the few in the world to be duly authorized by a state monetary body in its location, in this case, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Based on industry estimates last 2017, there are roughly 2.5 billion in total monthly transactions. E-money transactions totaled P1.1 trillion in 2016, marking an all-time high for the Philippines, according to central bank data. In addition to this, UnionBank has revealed its blockchain initiative named Project i2i. It is a real-time, cost-effective, and secure retail payment system in the blockchain that aims to bring millions of unbanked Filipinos to the financial system by connecting rural banks to the country’s main financial network. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas has approved Cantilan Bank, PR Savings Bank, City Savings Bank, FairBank, as the first five banks to be part of the Project i2i last May 22, 2018. With this, rural banks now have access to the main banking network, which allows them to perform important banking functions that universal banks can also do. In the future, Project i2i will cater to other sectors including cooperatives and sari-sari stores. Overall, this highlights the power of smart banking and digital solutions to elevate lives and fulfill dreams.

Despite the majority of existing centralized systems, blockchain technology can still find its place. Like any new technology, blockchain is an idea that initially disrupts, and over time it could promote the development of a something bigger that combines old and new technologies. Some historical examples include the creation of the printing press enabling the spread of knowledge, and the steam engine revolutionizing the Industrial Revolution. Thus, over time, blockchain technology could exist in a larger ecosystem with both centralized and decentralized models. Blockchain technology is still in its infancy and supported by a relatively small but highly qualified group of innovators and techno-entrepreneurs. Blockchain’s innovation potential is large and holds a lot of promise. Despite this, it is early to draw final conclusions on how the technology will evolve. In a positive light, technological innovations have been and will continue to be the subject of further improvements and developments such as variations in its implementation, improving efficiency, improving scalability, and conceptual advances for the greater good.

VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

Makabagong Mariang Mamimili Paano babaguhin ng teknolohiya ang nakasanayang tradisyonal na kalakaran? Ni Rochelle Mae M. Muzones Mga Dibuho Reynelyn P. Yorac

Siksikan at mahabang pila ang kadalasang sumasalubong sa kaniya sa tuwing bibili siya ng mga paborito niyang damit sa pasyalan man o sa may tindahan na malapit sa bangketa. Dinagdagan pa nito ng maalansingan at nagbabagang init ng panahon at mala-usad pagong na takbo ng mga sasakyan sa may kalsada. Anupaman, para sa paborito niyang damit, susuungin niya lahat-lahat ng ito. Ito ang kwento ni Maria noon.

ANG UGAT

Naging popular ngayon sa mga madla ang electronic commerce o mas kilala sa bansag na e-commerce, ang pagpapalitan ng transaksyon ng dalawa o higit pang partido sa pamamagitan ng paggamit ng internet o anumang makabagong teknolohiya. Sa ilalim ng pamumuno ni dating Pangulong Joseph Ejercito Estrada, naipasa ang Electronic Commerce Act o Republic Act (RA) 8792 upang regulahin ang nasabing kalakaran sa pamumuno ng Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) taong 2000. Subalit, hindi pa lubusang niyayakap ng mga Pilipino ang nasabing larangan ng komersyo sa mga panahong iyon. Taong 2011 nang maging patok ito sa madla sa pagsulpot ng mga shopping sites gaya ng Multiply Shopping at Lazada. Kabilang sa mga unang nagpakilala ng e-commerce sa Iloilo sa pamamagitan ng Facebook ay si Alkai Oducado – Salcedo, may-ari ng Stiles Clothing. Nagtapos sa kursong Nursing si Salcedo sa Central Philippine University taong 2010. Taong din na iyon nang magsimula si Salcedo magbenta ng mga damit, bags at mga accessories sa pamamagitan ng paglathala nito sa kaniyang Facebook account, kung kailan rin nagsimulang naging patok ang nasabing

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social media site sa bansa. “Nang nakapagtapos ako ng pag-aaral, pumunta ako ng Manila at namili para sa sarili ko. Pagkauwi ko ng Iloilo, narealize ko na ang dami ko palang nabili. Inoffer ko ito sa mga kaibigan ko since nag-aapartment lang ako at ang hirap dalhin ang aking mga pinamili sa school. So ang ginawa ko, inupload ko sila sa Facebook para mas madali,”pagsasalaysay ni Salcedo sa Hiligaynon. Sa loob ng anim na buwan, naging matagumpay naman ang pagnenegosyo ni Salcedo. Subalit, matapos ang kaniyang board exam noong Disyembre 2010 ay natuklasan na mayroon siyang cancer sa lymph nodes. Napilitang tumigil si Salcedo sa pagbebenta upang sumailalim sa chemotherapy dalawang buwan matapos madiskobre na mayroon siyang sakit. Subalit, tunay ngang kapag mahal mo ang isang bagay ay babalik at babalikan mo ito. Hinanap-hanap ni Salcedo ang trabaho kung kaya ay naghanap siya ng supplier sa Manila, sa pamamagitan din ng Facebook, para magsuplay nga mga ready-to-wear na damit na kaniyang binibenta. Naging katuwang niya na ang kanyang pinsan na noo’y nag-aaral din sa nasabing Unibersidad. Ang naging sistema ng kanilang negosyo ay kukuha sila ng order hanggang Biyernes lamang ng linggong iyon. Pagdating ng Sabado, nakikipagkita ang kaniyang pinsan sa kanilang mamimili sa isang kilalang mall sa lungsod at doon na nagaganap ang transaksyon. Mula sa capital nito na Php 3,000 ay tumubo ito sa Php 20,000 sa loob lamang ng isang buwan.

“Makakabili ka o makakabenta ka ng isang bagay saan ka man naroroon at makakatipid ka pa ng oras kung ikukumpara sa tradisyonal na pamimili.”

Nang lumaki na ang kanilang kita at lumawak na ang sakop ng kanilang mga mamimili, napagdesisyonan ni Salcedo na magbukas ng isang boutique. Nagsimula ang Stiles Clothing sa Arguelles Extension sa Jaro taong 2011 ngunit kalaunan ay lumipat sila sa Shopper’s Avenue sa may Valeria Street hanggang sa taong 2016. Sa kabila ng pagkakaroon ng boutique sa may Smallville sa distrito ng Mandurriao ay patuloy pa rin ang pamamayagpag ng Stiles Clothing sa pagbebenta hindi lamang sa probinsya ng Iloilo kung hindi pati na rin sa buong bansa at maging sa ibang bansa.

MATAMIS NA BUNGA

Ang Pilipinas, ikalawa sa pinakamalaking bansa sa timogsilangang Asya, ay tinatayang may nasa 107.5 milyong populasyon sa pagsisimula pa lang ng taong 2018 ayon sa Association of Southeast Asian Nations o ASEAN. Naitala rin sa taong ito na 67 milyong Pilipino ang aktibo sa internet habang nasa 38 milyong nito ang aktibo sa tinatawag na online shopping. Samo’t saring mga opinyon ang umusbong mula sa mga tao patungkol sa isyu sa online shopping. Mayroong nagsasabi na maayos ito ngunit mayroon namang nagsasabi na delikado ito. Ayon kay Salcedo, isang bagay na kailangan mong panghawakan kung ikaw ay papasok sa larangan ng online shopping ay ang tiwala ng iyong mga mamimili. Bilang isang mamimili na walang kakayahang kilatisin ang material na ginamit, ang sukat ng bibilhin, at ang kabuuang kwalidad ng isang bagay ay inaasahan mo na lang ang opinyon ng mga dating parokyano at ng mga kilalang umiindorso nito. “Ang naging technique ko i-send ko [ang mga produkto] sa mga vloggers and sa mga artista, kasi dati hindi naman sila nagpapabayad para mag-endorso. Then ita-tag nila ako sa kanilang mga social

media accounts. So, ang kanilang mga followers, makikita ka nila na legit seller ka. Doon nagstart hanggang sa naggrow ang aking followers sa Facebook at Instagram,” pagsasalay ni Salcedo. May mahigit 25,000 na followers ang Stiles Clothing sa kanilang Facebook page at mahigit 40,000 followers naman sa kanilang Instagram account. Ang lawak ng kanilang mamimili ay hindi lamang mula sa Iloilo kung hindi pati na rin sa iba’t ibang kapuluan sa bansa at mga karatig bansa. Kung kaya’t ganoon na lang katindi ang paghawak ni Salcedo sa tiwalang binibigay sa kaniya at sa kaniyang mga produkto ng mga mamili sa loob ng siyam na taon sa ganitong uri ng kalakaran. Naging isa rin ito sa kaniyang mga istratehiya upang mas lumago ang kaniyang kita sa kaniyang pisikal na tindahan. Ayon kay Salcedo, naging epektibo ang pag-lalathala niya ng kaniyang mga produkto sa kaniyang social media accounts dahil may pagkakataon ang mga mamimili na pumili na bago pa man sila makarating sa mismong lokasyon nito. Isa sa masasabing pinakamagandang naidulot ng online shopping kay Salcedo sa pagiging online seller o online buyer man ay hawak mo ang iyong oras. Makakabili ka o makakabenta ka ng isang bagay saan ka man naroroon at makakatipid ka pa ng oras kung ikukumpara sa tradisyonal na pamimili. ”You can work from home. Hawak mo oras mo, wala kang boss na kailangan mong magreport, at pwede ka mag-vacation at magbenta at the same time,” pagtatapos niya.

TINIK SA LALAMUNAN

Sa tingin ng iba, madali lang ang pagpasok sa industriya ng online shopping, ngunit salungat ito sa totoong buhay katulad ng tradisyonal na pagnenegosyo. Hindi rin ‘instant’ ang kita rito sapagkat may mga proseso kang dapat pagdaanan mula sa pagpili ng supplier

mo, na kalimitan sa pamamagitan din ng internet, hanggang sa pagdating ng produkto sa mismong kamay ng iyong mamimili. Lalo pa itong pinahirap dahil sa paglipas ng panahon, naging kaakibat rin ng mga salitang online shopping ay ang salitang scam. Sa pinalabas na datos ng Philippine National Police - Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG), noong 2016 hanggang sa unang tatlong buwan ng 2017, nangunguna sa listahan ang online scam na mayroong tinatayang 555 na kaso, halos doble kung ikukumpara mo sa pinagsamang datos mula 2013 hanggang 2015 na mayroon lamang 366 na kaso. Kung kaya’t mas pina-igting ng PNP-ACG, katuwang ang DTI, ang pagpuksa sa laganap na pangaabuso sa nasabing kalakaran alinsunod sa Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012 o RA 10175. Para sa mga balak na pumasok sa industriya ng e-commerce partikular sa online shopping, paalala ni Salcedo na dapat ay tapat at totoo ka lang sa iyong mga binebenta at tiyaga lang sa pagbebenta. “It’s not always easy selling, there are months na matumal ang benta, and there are months na masagana. So tiyaga lang at mahalin mo ang ginagawa mo. Be honest and true especially sa online selling kasi when you say good quality, dapat pagkakuha ng customer mo, good quality talaga, and when it comes to pricing, i-evaluate mo rin kung worth it ba talaga.” Scroll, select, checkout and pay. Ito ang kadalasang bubungad sa kaniya sa tuwing bibili siya ng mga paborito niyang damit. Nasa sala man siya o sa kaniyang silid ay malaya siya nakakapili ng kaniyang nahuhumalingang isuot habang gumagawa siya ng gawaing-bahay. Isang araw matapos ang kaniya pagpili ay, tada, dala ng isang lalaki na nakamotor na nasa tapat ng pinto ang supot na naglalaman ng paborito niyang damit. Ito ang kwento ni Maria ngayon.

VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

Ukay Okay? LIFESTYLE

Sometimes going after branded and on-trend clothes does not mean you have to cash out every single cent in your wallet just to have it. By Erika Danielle M. Pepito and Paulene A. Buenafe Photographs Edrea Claire G. Gregore Illustration June Ivan S. Gumban

She gave herself another pep talk as the sight of the covered court swarmed with a sea of people welcomed her, daring her to join them in their quest for their next budget-friendly and hip finds. To her left is a pile. A humongous pile. Clothing pieces stacked on top of the other, with some flying from one point of the stall to God knows where it landed. To her right is the madness. A hurried madness. Hands scurry for that top that is sure to make heads turn, or a pair of jeans that would go well with pretty much anything inside the closet. Not one to back down, she let herself be swallowed by the mayhem and was lucky enough to snag a clothing piece, its tag intact. It’s a trend. A timeless trend. Because fashion is a cycle of what’s in and out, they said. DIGGING THE ORIGINS The concept of ukay-ukay, derived from the Filipino Ukay-ukay, derived from the Filipino verb “halukay” which means to dig, refer to stores that retail second-handed apparel at rock-bottom prices, equivalent to a thrift shop. Usually, its American counterpart display clothes hanged in racks, but in the Philippines, people would scout busy sidewalks or business establishments and rummage piles of damaged yet wearable or slightly used items such as clothes, shoes, bags, toys, linen and other garments. When in luck, one can find a branded piece at a low cost. This fashion frenzy in the Philippines started in the 1980s. Various humanitarian and religious organizations of the Salvation Army used to donate used apparel as assistance to those affected by the calamities. As the pieces were starting to pile up, many of the business-minded citizens purchased these clothing pieces in bulks and sold it to the public at a fraction of its original cost. From being a simple business venture, it sprung into a multimillion-peso commerce. Its popularity skyrocketed which attracted more consumers and has revolutionized the fashion culture in the Philippines. To frugal shopaholics, the ukay-ukay concept is the greatest thing since sliced bread. Ever since Alyson* discovered the thrills of thrift shopping, she drops by these

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stores during weekends or if she has to go to the city for some errands. Whenever she makes a stop at an ukay-ukay store, she often keeps an eye out for shoes and stylish clothes. She started looking for ukay-ukay clothes for her high school acquaintance party, and has grown to love it since. “During that time, I wanted to wear something that is unique, but at the same time, cheap because I didn’t want to spend my allowance just to buy expensive clothes,” she explained.

HAULED UP The culture of ukay-ukay, despite it being an economicfriendly means of acquiring new clothes, also has a downfall. In 2013, the Bureau of Customs confiscated a shipment thought to be fishing supplies but it turned out to be ukay-ukay goods amounting to P40.5 million. Two years later, 21 containers of segunda mano clothes (another term for ukay-ukay clothes) from Malaysia and Korea were impounded from Misamis Oriental. It has an estimated worth of P52.5 million, “the biggest seizure of used clothing”, the Customs pegged. In reality, these are prohibited under the Republic Act no. 4653 to “safeguard the health of the Filipino people and maintain the dignity of the nation by declaring it a national policy to prohibit the commercial importation of textile articles commonly known as used clothing and rags.” This law, enacted in 1966 even before ukay-ukay made waves in the Philippines, also mandated that seized ukay-ukay goods be burned in the presence of a representative from the Department of Finance, and of the Office of the President. It is quite unclear how relief clothes sold in ukay-ukay stalls are considered illegal, when these enable people from all social classes to buy clothes for a cheaper price. Health and sanitation was the primary issue for the prohibited importation of segunda mano clothes. Due to the fact that most of these clothes are already used, it poses a higher risk of contraction of a number of diseases. It could also destabilize the textile industry, with textile retailers expressing their concern that with the increasing interest of the masses to settle for ukay-ukay clothes, their businesses would go into demise. IT COMES WITH A (CHEAPER) PRICE The ukay-ukay industry may have been painted in a bad light, but it has not discouraged the Filipinos who go after ukay-

ukay items. With proper haggling skills, one can now create a fashion statement at an affordable cost. When asked on what was her greatest find in the ukay-ukay, Alyson gushed about the Marks and Spencer shirts and Zara tank tops she got, eight pieces of which for just P100. Skimming through racks full of used and tagged clothes can be overwhelming, but it could really help if you know exactly what you are looking for. It saves you time, energy, and money, since it limits your inclination to impulsive buying. If you are the spontaneous and uninhibited type when it comes to fashion, there is always the option to look for fresh closet picks without anything in mind. In fact, most of the thrill in ukay-ukay shopping comes from discovering a designer item in a markdown price. Consider yourself lucky if you find a tag still attached to it. Keep in mind these essentials when you go thrift shopping: Ukay-ukay clothes have a certain smell to it, due to some chemical being poured on them to disinfect them. Wear a mask so you wouldn’t be distracted of the smell while you’re on your thrift shopping spree. Also, keep a hand sanitizer in handy to keep off the germs you may get from the clothes until you find the nearest washroom. You are bound to try on a few items to make sure they fit you right, so it is advisable to wear simple and comfortable clothes for you to not have a hard time. Don’t just keep you on your toes on what you could possibly find – keep your eyes peeled for potential pickers who might find your belongings interesting as well. Before purchasing, check if there are any missing buttons, or tears and cuts that might be out of place, or stains that are hard to get rid of. And keep in hand smaller bills so that you can keep track of how much you have spent; it’s easier to count the change, too. “It’s not about the brand that matters, or how expensive your clothes are. Kundi sa pagdala sang ukay-ukay clothes nga ginawear to make it fashionable. Being fashionable does not mean nga required ka magbuy branded clothes para maging in ka sa trend, just because nakita mo sa mga artista or sa fashion magazines nga branded ila gingamit. You can buy ontrend clothes sa ukay-ukay without spending a lot of money, unique pa mga clothes mo and wala ka pa kapareho,” defended Alyson on how some people raise their eyebrows when they learn about someone preferring to buy thrift or secondhand garments over the ones sold in malls. Filipinos have a penchant for making their money’s worth. But we are also critical of how our purchases are synonymous with longevity and durability. It is characteristic of us to look for the cheapest items on the shelf, yet can also deliver its purpose with the quality that is at par with those being sold in high-end shops. In that sense, we are willing to go to great lengths. By great lengths, we mean enduring hours of being inside a congested area, trying to squeeze in countless people going after the same ‘fashion gems’ in a seabed of rocks, and experiencing the torture of letting go some clothes that we think would look great on us but actually don’t. That is the challenge of ukay-ukay shopping.

VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

REALigious Talk RELIGION

Although religion wears its crown with the ornaments of worship by those who deem it hallowed, its silk garment has now been ragged, torn and destroyed by the pandemonium of divisions, warfare and deathly discrimination.

By Mark Anthony A. Masacote Photograph Miguel Carlos J. Llamado Illustration Romari Charlz F. Diaz

Odd as it seems, it is inherently common for an individual to come to a point of his life where he will begin to ponder about why he existed, how he exists or what made his existence possible. Usually, it leads him to a thought of a vaguely identifiable primary entity responsible for his subsistence. From there, he will begin the voyage on the course of exploring his faith. Religion, nonetheless, can

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be labeled as one of the most contentious elements of the society which relentlessly provokes an abundance of argumentative oppositions and heavy debate among individuals with contradicting or separate religious ideologies. It has constantly been instinctive in the nature of man to recognize a supreme divinity, a being omnipotent, a creator, and the root from which all things exist, an immovable moverâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;God. The Spiritual Turmoil Even before religion began to materialize, we have always been certain that we all live in accordance to our independent set of beliefs which allows us to truly explore our conscious subjectivities and our varying spiritual dimensions. We can never deny the inevitable religious quarrel. One potent reason why people went divided by religion is because of the strong skewed differences that inevitably and perennially alienate one from the other in terms of what or how to believe. Faith originally existed

without a formula, no blueprint, no label, no definite form. There was certainly no specific configuration on how a man must exercise his faith. Faith, unlike any tangible object, is definitely difficult to explain and can undeniably at times be vague and ambiguous. These were several of the reasons why religion was born; born to guide man towards the realization and understanding of his faith, silencing the chaos of what was once a relentless spirit. Intrinsically, where does the essence of belief unveil itself? Is it in prayer or in ritual? Is it in the spirituality or the religion? Complicated as it may appear, it is usually in these aspects where we can explore the coexistent but contradicting reality of believing. The Power Play in Religion A portion from an article published by Joshua Mark entitled, “Religion in the Ancient World”, posted in the Ancient History Encyclopedia 2018, defined religion as a word etymologically derived from the original Latin noun ‘religio’ which means ‘restraint’, or ‘religere’ which translates to ‘repeat or to read again’ according to Cicero. Most commonly, the broadly considered etymology of the word is ‘religionem’, which means, ‘to show respect to what is sacred’. Mark emphasized the significance of religion as an organized system of beliefs that are actually considered as a revolution of practices believed by many to possess the key of leading an individual into a transcendental spiritual experience. Presumably, drawing back to the days of the Roman Empire and fostering Greek civilizations, a very fine line existed between religion and mythology. The glory of religion was undeniable. It has been a vital part of life since then. Influence, as all have been aware, is and will always be the primary power of religion. We can never deny that some clergy and heads, and servitors of the Church who claimed to detest sin and promote humility

were those who first violated their own teachings for a life of profligacy and deceit. However, there are still many who are constant in upholding the virtues and sacredness of a life of prayer. These individuals are those who can truly guide their fellows into a place of spiritual enlightenment and awakening. Alliance for a Purpose Patti Maguire Armstrong, a correspondent for the National Catholic Register and OSV Newspaper and an award-winning author who published a 2012 article about religion entitled, ‘Three Priests talk about Spiritual Direction’, asked one of her respondents: “If a Catholic immerses himself in the faith – reading about it and fully practicing it – isn’t that enough?” Fr. Mitch Pacwa, S.J., a Jesuit priest, a popular author and a host on EWTN TV believed that in lies in the full practice of faith. “If one is fully practicing, then that is all one needs, since the full practice of the faith encompasses all of life. The problem is that many people are immature in understanding the full practice

“Why is it of vital importance that we reflect on our spirituality as a people? It is important because the quality of our spirituality tells us who we are as a people. It confronts us with the question, if we are a people who treasure the values of truth and justice and compassion, have we then succeeded in creating a society that nourishes and promotes these values which are dear to us and which express our true selves? And if we have thus far failed to create a just, humane and peaceful society, where do we draw the strength and inspiration to engage in the arduous task of reform and renewal?” “Our spirituality,” he firmly supposed, “defines who we are. We are a pilgrim people on our way to our true home. We are pilgrims who made a covenant with God pledging to contribute our talents to the establishment of the Kingdom of God pledging to contribute our talents to the establishment of the Kingdom of God on earth.” Religion vs. Spirituality Three students from the University were interviewed on

“Faith originally existed without a formula, no blueprint, no label, no definite form. There was certainly no specific configuration on how a man must exercise his faith. of the faith. For that reason, most people, especially when they are young, need a spiritual director who is mature in the faith and its lived experience.” The essence of diving deep is required for those who willingly submit their spirituality to a particular religion. The union of a group in a religion fully aware of its purpose fortifies oneness and solidarity among men of different skin, ethnicity and nationality. Most Rev. Oscar Cruz, D.D., president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) began with questions to ponder about religion on his Pastoral Letter for Filipino Spirituality.

their views about the relationship of religion and spirituality. They were asked the same set of questions to express their opinions on the said subjects of comparison. The first question was about how they would apply the learning they have acquired into differentiating religion and spirituality. Ges Jaicten, a first year Literature student and an active writer of The Artian, the college publication of the College of Liberal Arts, Sciences and Education, expressed, “I see religion as an institutional entity, with codes, rules, and arbitrary standards that benefit or oppress the entire group. Spirituality on the other hand is a VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

kind of an out-of-body feeling one has that goes beyond the individual. Spirituality is more of a transcendence to a greater being or essence.” Meanwhile, Jeremy Almeria, a first year Philosophy student, active writer, and a current Mill Hill Missionary shared, “For me, religion is a general term which classifies each individual about his or her belief about supernatural beings like the Roman Catholic, the Hindu and many more. Spirituality, on the other hand, is the one that characterizes each religion. It is the one that gives religion essence and character.” Finally, Roger Ric Amador, a first year Political Science Student and a graduate of Senior High School as a seminarian at the St. Vincent Ferrer Seminary, Iloilo gave his views. “Spirit means breath of life and [is] supposed to have a higher degree than soul, which we mistakenly understand oftentimes. Spirituality is what makes man. In such, his capacity to reason makes his spirit. Soul on the other hand is based on his capacity to emotion and is limited only to his carnal self. Religion is a communion of people believing in an omnipotent being.” Even though the answers were distinctly varied, they all shared a common point that spirituality is the one that dictates the substance of religion. The second question was about whether religion strengthens spirituality or something that diverts people from truly discovering their faith. Jaicten supposed, “I think there is not ‘one’ answer on how one can become spiritual. Each has his own differing means to achieving it. That

being said, I think religion becomes a single perspective in looking at spirituality. By canonizing what is to be believed, and not what can then restrict the possibilities of that belief and confine it into a single point, not letting it become something more.” Contrary to what Jaicten expressed, Almeria responded, “Each one of us has the freedom of belief. For me, yes, religion strengthens spirituality. Religion is just a classification but spirituality is a way of life which a specific religion is teaching.” Amador then answered, “Today, I understand that spirituality becomes the emphasized factor because they see religion as ‘toxic’ and full of hypocrisy. Religion then is seen as a sanction to those who did not choose their religion.” In the second question, the views of the respondents were obviously oppositional. Each of them pertained to their own personal standpoints of saying so through their diverse observations, experiences and knowledge. The final question was that about knowing if on what point of a religious practice they can say that religion is no longer healthy for spirituality. Jaicten answered: “When it comes to religion not being healthy, one has to think of the hate and the fear that religious groups foster. I think that becomes the unhealthy part. Almost every large religion instigates fear one way or another. The very nature of one being different from your own already gives a sense of discomfort. I do not pin religion as a suspect for degrading spirituality. Rather I point my finger against the human nature of hatred that pollutes every person’s

mind. Even religious groups get tangled in hate. That, I feel, is the hindrance to the spirituality you’re looking for.” Almeria on the other hand responded, “I do not identify any, because spirituality is always connected or associated with religion.” And finally, Amador supplied, “Religion becomes unhealthy if it starts to dictate your autonomy. Like the Iglesia Ni Cristo dictating its constituents of who should they vote. Man must maintain its capability for having free will.” The answers to the final questions, just like the first and the second, contained a specific degree of difference and conflict. Although we can conclude that religion, to infer, is the embodiment spirituality. We can never deny the fact that with the absence of the substance of spirituality, religion is merely an empty ground with vain laws and hollow rituals. The ever connectedness of spirituality and religion must always be put into consideration. It is somehow comparable to the inseparable existence of the body and the soul. If indeed a body is soulless, it is merely an empty vessel incapable of virtue and moral consciousness. “Religion fortifies the spirit”, an aphorism that many would oppose. However, if we indeed tend to realize and examine deeper: without religion, how unimaginable the world, for we would all be at war with the chaos of faith that only religion can silence.

Source: theguardian.com/news/2018/aug/27/religion-why-is-faith-growing-and-what-happens-next

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CAMPUS

Fourth Estate: Empowering Youth and Nation Campus and professional journalists making probes of the unseen corners of the society and empowering the nation. By Rj Junsay and Everild Dominique A. Camique Photographs Miguel Carlos J. Llamado, Edrea Claire G. Gregore, Bobbiejo M. Healey and Allaine Rose M. Emnacen VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

The sound of footsteps getting closer adds fear to my already shaking hands. Willing my legs to run faster than it did, the feeling of the end creeps up, and silences my mind. Quickly turning to a sharp turn to my right, I see a dead end. The footsteps are getting louder now, as my body turns around to accept my fate. Looking up from the grey concrete beneath my feet, and looking into the eyes of my pursuer, seeing the gun pointed at my head, the knowledge of my death becomes apparent to me; that my death came not from sickness, nor stealing, not even ending a man’s life. It was freeing to know that my death came from my search for the truth. Journalism has always been used as a means to search for and discover the truth. It has acted as a channel for the verification of facts in order to influence the decision-making of the general public. In that matter, it involves the journey in search of the truth, in which the journey is long, hard and arduous. Long, sleepless nights, little pay, unending traveling and the constant risks are included in the profession of journalism, and our country has never made it easy for journalists to practice their craft.

In Campus: Torch Bearers of Truth

In Section 2 of Republic Act No. 7079 also known as Campus Journalism Act of 1991, it is the declared policy of the State to uphold and protect the freedom of the press even at the campus level and to promote the development and growth of campus

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journalism as a means of strengthening ethical values, encouraging critical and creative thinking, and developing moral character and personal discipline of the Filipino youth. University of San Agustin (USA) being the first university in Western Visayas has one of the oldest universitywide student press corps known as the USA Publications (USA Pub). “From the inspired idea of two high school students in 1927, the USA Publications has established itself as a leading college paper and magazine in the region and in the country,” shared University President Rev. Fr. Frederick Comendador, O.S.A. USA Pub produces four publications. The Augustinian (newspaper) and The Augustinian Mirror (magazine) give light to societal and political issues happening not just within the campus but also national and international issues. IrongIrong, being the official literary folio of the USA Pub, allows creative write-

ups, artworks, and photographs of the student to be published. While Dingding ni Gusting (wall newspaper) focuses on the community news particularly to the happenings in the partner communities of the University. “The USA Pub in my time was an activist. We took on the issues of the day as the nation navigated its first ten years after the EDSA Revolution. The fragile peace process, the plight of our domestic helpers, the sensational “massacres” and “rubouts”, hazing in campuses, among others hugged the national headlines,” expressed Eric Divinigracia, editorin-chief of USA Pub in 1994-1996 in his message for the publications’ 90th anniversary. “We were the transitional batch of the USA Publications. Transforming tourism-oriented magazines into development-oriented one,” shared Engr. Ray Adrian Macalalag, three-time editor-in-chief of USA Pub and former moderator. The USA Pub as well as other student press corps never rest their laurels to the continuous pursuit of the truth and be the watchdogs of the country.

National Scale: Threats to the Truth

Citing the data collated by the Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR), National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP), the Philippine Press Institute (PPI), MindaNews, and the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ), several attacks and threats were made against the Philippine media, and continues to increase, from 85 cases under 22 months of Duterte’s

“The USA Pub as well as student press corps never rest their laurels to the continuous pursuit of the truth and be the watchdogs of the country.” administration, to 99 cases, just six months afterward. Example of these cases were online harassment, verbal and physical assault, libel, intimidation, and the worst of it, killing. In his term alone, there were 12 journalists that were killed, according to the compilation of data by the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP). In an article published by the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Nonoy Espina, the chairperson of the NUJP, said that this was the highest number of murdered journalists in the first two years in office of any Philippine president. President Rodrigo Duterte’s disdain for journalists were made clear since 2016 in his public statement, “Just because you’re a journalist you are not exempted from assassination, if you’re a son of a b*tch,” on his take on the problem of media killings. Another proof of his apparent disdain was when he addressed the case of journalist and politician, Jun Pala, who was murdered last 2003 in Davao, through the shooting of gunmen on a motorcycle. “If you are an upright journalist, nothing will happen to you,” said Duterte, “The example here is Pala. I do not want to diminish his memory but he was a rotten son of a b*tch. He deserved it.” Because of his perspective of

journalists, it has reflected on the country in terms of the practice of journalism in the Philippines. In the 2018 Southeast Asia Media Report, published by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), the Philippines was named as one of “the deadliest peacetime country for journalists” in Southeast Asia. The IFJ report further said that, “There are no signs of any government willingness to stop the targeting of journalist and media organisations who believe this official apathy, or even open hostility.”

History Repeats Itself

The hostility towards the press was evident long before the term of Duterte. During the Marcos’ regime, journalists were arrested, tortured and even killed for their opposition and critique towards the dictatorship. One of them was Lilosa Hilao, a former campus journalist at the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM), who was among those who went against the tide of Martial Law through witing. Her most notable works were the “the Vietnamization of the Philippines” and “Democracy is dead in the Philippines under Martial Law.” In an article by Rappler, it was stated that she was beaten up and taken to Camp Crame due to her act of demanding an arrest warrant when drunken soldiers from the

Constabulary Anti-Narcotics Unit barged into their home, looking for her brother. She was tortured and died from suicide due to her act of ingesting muriatic acid. She is one of those people who fought tirelessly, and passionately, to stand by what they believe is right. It was never a spark, but a flame set ablaze since the time of Rizal, and seen through the generations of writers and journalists that came after him. That fire is still set ablaze today, and seen through the recent issue of the threat towards press freedom by the case of one of Rappler’s founders, Maria Ressa. Last November 2018, Ressa turned herself into the authorities when a warrant was issued for her arrest, but she posted bail and was eventually released. In her speech at TIME 100 gala, she said, “in 14 months, the Filipino government has filed 11 cases against me. My only crime is to a journalist to speak truth to power”.

Right to Inform

In the words of Henry Anatole Grunwald, “Journalism can never be silent: That is its greatest virtue and its greatest fault. It must speak, and speak immediately, while the echoes of wonder, the claims of triumph and the signs of horror are still in the air.” Journalism has always been used as a means of spreading information, the verification of facts, and writing stories in such a way that can make the readers think critically of what is happening around them; one must do so when the issue is still fresh in the minds of the people. Thus, it influences the decisionmaking of the general public. Because of its ability to inform and the power to influence, it is seen as a threat to those who have something to hide. For journalism critics, the government and its policies giving the people another perspective to the black-and-white aspects of their agendas. The 1987 Philippine Constitution, Article III, Section 4, states that “No law shall be passed abridging the freedom of speech, of expression, of the press, or the right of the people peaceable to assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances.” The act of journalism has the right to inform the general public. One cannot fault a journalist, for they are simply doing their jobs to publish, to broadcast and to report, whatever is happening in the country. The youth especially student journalists across the country have the tools like the social media for responsible sharing of information. For the future of press freedom lies in the hands of those who start to think critically, for the search for the truth starts when one sees beyond what’s already in front of him. VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

REVIEWS

An Impassioned Synthpop

By Glaiza Rae D. Amable Photo Credits theroguemag.com

LANY takes a different turn with their “most vulnerable album to date “ Malibu Nights

A follow through of their self-titled debut in 2017, the indie pop band LANY makes a huge comeback with their sophomore album “Malibu Nights” on October 5, 2018 released by Side Street Entertainment and Polydor Records, which is a collection of songs, brimming with lyrics about love, longing, and loss in the wake of heartbreak. Malibu Nights is a nine-track album fueled by heartache and confusion written in a whopping 45 days and is centered on the lyrical theme that deals with the aftermath of LANY frontman Paul Jason Klein’s emotional split with pop-singer Dua Lipa. The unveiling of the album allowed members Klein, Jake Goss, and Les Priest to work in harmony to deliver a tight set of nine lush pop songs while incorporating more guitars, piano, and drums into their instrumentals. It showed off their versatility and brought a piece of dreamy synth-pop, essential to modern pop listening. LANY dropped their third single and first track, “Thick and Thin,” giving fans a glimpse of the heartbreaking nature of the

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album which brings sadness and uncertainty together with a dance-inducing, upbeat vibe and passionatelayered vocals. The upbeat instrumentals contradict the message of the song, but the band pulls it off, leaving the audience hungry to continue listening. Following this are synth-heavy songs “Taking Me Back” and “If You See Her” that highlight the descriptive stories of confusion, denial, and doubt that led to a track entitled “I Don’t Wanna Love You Anymore” in which it continues to question the loss of a relationship and the wants that come along with it. Contradicting LANY’s usual style, “Let Me Know” is a little more subdued with a slower tempo and less instrumentals, while “Run” infuses hip-hop beats and acoustic guitar to match Klein’s emotional lyrics of frustration. Instead of focusing the lyrics on hurting, they switched it around by saying “Just make sure you don’t run back to me when you’re done,” taking a stand on heartache and letting go instead of holding on. The last three songs of the album leave frustration and return to sorrow. In the song “Valentine’s Day,” Klein gets back into dating for the first time since the break-up, claiming, “I think it’s time to give my heart a chance even though it’s bleeding,” however he still cannot seem to shake the thought of his first love off of his mind. “Thru These Tears” is undeniably a somber exploration of lost love, but more than anything it is a song about finding

The unveiling of the album allowed members Klein, Jake Goss, and Les Priest to work in harmony to deliver a tight set of nine lush pop songs while incorporating more guitars, piano, and drums into their instrumentals. hope in sorrow as it declares, “This hurts like hell but I keep telling myself it’s gonna get better.” The album finally closes out with title track “Malibu Nights” which is a quiet but emotionally resonant song that leaves a sweet taste after an otherwise insipid listening. All in all, the album showcased the universality of LANY as a band with their heart-wrenching lyrics that brilliantly deliver a testament to emotional processes of the fans all over the world, but disappointingly, the anticipation for this second album is met with unmemorable and repetitive installment. Majority of its tracks are almost sonically identical and lacks diversion of sound. Although it has its flaws at some points, still, everyone is hopeful that the band would eventually refine their sound to be more distinctive and less mainstream. Besides, Malibu Nights makes anyone suspect that the best LANY is yet to come, considering their quick rise to the top being 36th on the charts and over six million monthly Spotify listeners.

REVIEWS

Dismantling This Band By Erika Danielle M. Pepito Photo Credits philstar.com

Putting the spotlight on this up-and-coming sextet that rises on the charts with their millennially relatable tunes

One element should not be missing in the context of culture – music. Music has paved the way for the creative resonation of the people’s experiences, beliefs and distinctions. The musical art in the Philippines is a fusion of Asian, Spanish, Latin American, American, and other indigenous influences, thanks to the foreign colonizers’ imprints on the general picture of our culture. Today’s music in the Philippines has evolved to cater to the current generation’s interests. The Original Pilipino Music (OPM), ranging from Philippine pop songs and ballads to band hits, adapts to the trends and developments, striving to be relevant and relatable. Underground or indie bands start to make names for themselves, skyrocketing to fame and bringing their own brands into the mainstream music without entirely compromising their identities as recording artists. One of which is This Band, a six-member band formed last 2017 in Las Pinas, Metro Manila. Andrea Manzano leads the bands with the vocals, accompanied by Euwie Loira as rhythm guitarist, John Macaranas for the drums, Miccael Galvan as the bassist, Melvin Carson for the keyboards, and Reymart Gubat in the lead guitars. This pop rock/indie band is currently under the wings of Viva Records. What caught everyone’s attention was their hit “Kahit Ayaw Mo Na”, written by Loira. It placed This Band on the map with 14 million streams on the music streaming giant Spotify last January 2019, taking the topmost spot at the Philippines Viral 50 and penetrating Spotify’s Global Viral Charts. Released last February 2, 2018, the song speaks of an unconditional love in the midst of love’s uncertainties and changing tides of time. Just imagine yourself jumping and singing your heart out to this hit:

O, bakit bang kailangan pang umalis?/Pakiusap lang na ‘wag ka nang lumihis/Tayo’y mag usap, teka lang, ika’y huminto/‘Wag mo kong iwan, aayusin natin ‘to/Ang daling sabihin na ayaw mo na/Pero pinag-isipan mo ba?/Lapit nang lapit, ako’y lalapit/Layo nang layo, ba’t ka lumalayo/Labo nang labo, ika’y malabo/Malabo, tayo’y malabo The band’s followers tap along to, “Tampisaw”, an upbeat track perfect for road trips and adventures. Released on May 25, 2018, this slightly different song compared to their other hits because of its fast pacing, is all about reliving one’s youthful and carefree days. Tumakbo palayo/Taas kamay at hawak mo/Makikisilong din naman/O’ mag- magkukuwentuhan tayo/Ano mang trip o gimmick/Kahit ano pa ang ating gawin/Basta’t kasama ka walang iba pang hahanapin This Band’s cup of coffee is not all about the beauty of love affairs. It celebrates freedom in heartaches as well. Released on June 22, 2018, “Bitaw Na” speaks of moving on from empty promises and empty love. It is also in the light of coming to terms with the ending of something good before both parties cause more hurt and pain to each other. Sige bitaw kung di ikaw/Ang susuyo pag ako’y/ Nalulungkot iyong limot/Pangako mo/Ako’y habang buhay mo Another hit single “Hindi Na Nga” made the five million mark stream on Spotify as well. It started to publicly stream last September 14, 2018, tugging at the audience’s heartstrings as it tackles the difficulty of finding acceptance, and knowing the right time of letting go when holding on is too painful. Alam kong huli na/Pero ‘di ko kayang bumitaw/Ika’y masasaktan/Dahil pangako ko’y walang iwanan/Alam kong huli na/Alam kong hindi na nga mahal “Ligaya” is more of an oxymoron to the song’s message in totality. Released on February 2, 2019, it reminisces the good times with a tinge of all the doubts on what they have. Sana’y gumising na pagkahimbing/Katotohanang hindi ka sakin/Oh kay bilis naman/Mga pangyayaring hindi inasahan/Ligaya ang nadarama/Ligaya nga ba talaga? The dreaded loneliness after a failed relationship is felt with “Di Na Babalik”, released last February 2, 2019 as well. It narrates all the what if’s and the should I have’s lingering in the back of the mind after a forlorn love affair. Kay tagal na tiniis/Kapiling ka kahit na masakit/ Ngayon malinaw na kung bakit ka umalis/Nang makalaya na sa pait at hinagpis/Alaala na tumatatak/Luha na pumapatak/ Kailangan nang punasan/Ito lang ang paraan This band (referring to it as a common noun) settled with calling themselves This Band as a band name well thought of, perhaps, under the guise of a last-minute decision. Their eccentric wit as a group echoes through their released singles since they started riding the radio waves in 2018. Just like most of their songs, the future for This Band is bright and quirky. VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

Hellos and Goodbyes

REVIEWS By Philip Robert C. Alaban, Everild Dominique A. Camique, and Rj Junsay Photo Credits screenrant.com, forbes.com, vox.com, and express.co.uk

It’s true when they say that the sorrow of parting can’t compare to the joy of whatever is coming to take their place. In this issue, we bring you the most talked about films of the season. Some set to be endings to tales that have been spun and stories that have been developed for over a decade, and others ushering in a new wave of narratives that focus on the frailty of humans and how easy it is for our weaknesses based on our senses to be extorted and used against us. With that being said, read on about the biggest and newest cinematic farewells and salutations.

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World

Ranking: 4.3/5 How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World is the trilogy capper to a successful series of films about the story of Hiccup and Toothless. One of the best things about this film is its perfectly gorgeous animation. Every dragon that made an appearance from the start to the end of the one-hour-and-44minute-long film looked flawlessly organic and emulated what living and breathing dragons should look like without a scale, or a tooth, out of place. The film was riddled with scenes that set you up and make you hold your breath only to end in completely unexpected ways that made you sigh in relief instead. The action sequences go hand in hand with the animation to deliver an action-packed family movie. However, it isn’t as interesting, narrative-wise, as the previous two HTTYD films. Another thing that factors in to most moviegoers’ dismay with this ending is that the main antagonist doesn’t tread far behind his predecessors in HTTYD 1 and 2, setting sights on the same prize and not having a creative method in reaching this goal that it just makes him look like your regular, ordinary dragon trapper. Going out on a limb and saying that the movie could have done just as well with only its main dilemma of finding a suitable and safe space where Berk’s resident reptiles could thrive in peace, sans villain, would still make sense. Props also have to go to Dreamworks animators for the movie’s box office performance despite its heavy reliance solely on visual storytelling since a huge chunk of its plot is centered on the interaction between the two Furies and

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the other dragons alone and involved little to no dialogue at all.

Avengers: Endgame Rating: 4.8/5

Following the events of Thanos’ lethal snap that wiped out 50 percent of all life in the universe and brought Earth’s mightiest heroes down to their knees, the fractured ranks of the Avengers come together one final time and take their final stand in a winner-takes-all time heist in the fitting denouement to the insanely impressive, decade-old, 22-movie roster of Marvel Studios: “Avengers: Endgame.” If you’ve been an avid follower

of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), this movie will be everything you’ve been waiting for and nothing you’ve been expecting. The directors, Anthony and Joe Russo, have delivered beyond expectation with Endgame’s three-hour-and-twenty eight-minute-long runtime. Each Avenger brought a layer of soul to the film that hasn’t always been consistent to movies under the MCU franchise. During the first ten minutes of the film, we are bombarded with scenes of the snap’s aftershock, which sets the tone and leads the audience down the path to a very exciting conclusion that moviegoers surely don’t want to miss. Throughout the movie, you’ll be able to celebrate life, loss, and learning as characters that have grown with you, like the original Avengers, Thor (Chris Hemsworth), Captain America (Chris Evans), Iron Man (Robert Downey Jr.), Black Widow (Scarlett Johanssen), Hawkeye ( Jeremy Renner), and The Hulk (Mark Ruffalo) along with the rookies of the next generation all come together to give a final bow in Endgame’s action-packed final battle royale filled every frame with superhero eye candy, and tear-jerking goodbyes that left cinemas across the globe distraught. One of the downsides to Endgame, however, is that some characters could have been given a little bit more screentime to explain their journey and struggles pre-time heist and post-snap, but perhaps those storylines might just be reserved for the series of upcoming standalone Marvel films that are set to make up MCU’s Phase 4, with Spiderman: Far From Home setting things in motion this coming July. You can’t be able to provide much insight on the film while at the same time trying to avoid spoilers so to put it lightly, Avengers: Endgame truly changed the game. We loved it, 3000.

Brooklyn Nine-Nine is a satirical take to the usual police procedural crime drama. It delivers hilarious cold opens and takes on serious issues and sensitive topics such as racial profiling, sexual assault, and gambling. The humor never seems forced or makes the audience uncomfortable in any way. The sitcom has shown progressiveness through the diversity in its characters, and the representation of the LGBTQ+ community garnered attention from critics. Shot by the single-camera setup, each season shows development in the characters themselves, and their relationship with one another, as each episode features a different pairing every time. Every episode exhibits another side of each character, letting the audience know their significance in the team as a whole. The script is cleverly written, filled with witty comebacks and hilarious dialogues alongside twists and turns, and with several references to popular action movies, especially the Die Hard franchise. Being nominated and garnering awards for the show such as two Creative Arts Emmy Awards and two Golden Globes, and the performances of Samberg as Best Actor for Television Series – Musical or Comedy, and Braugher as a three-time nominee for Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series, Brooklyn Nine-Nine has explored the boundaries of cop shows, entering new heights with its fresh, new take on a common ground for crime dramas.

riverdale Rating 3.8/5.0

Brooklyn Nine-Nine Review Rating 4.5/5.0

As far as crime shows go, mystery, violence, car chases and the occasional murder episode are the ways to go. But the liveaction sitcom, entitled “Brooklyn Nine-Nine”, created by the writers of the iconic Parks and Recreation, Daniel Goor and Michael Schur, adds a dash of comedy into the mix. This American police live-action sitcom revolves around the group of individuals working in the fictional 99th Precinct of the New York City Police Department in Brooklyn. It begins when Jake Peralta (Andy Samberg), a skilled yet immature detective, butts heads with the precinct’s new captain, Raymond Holt (Andre Braugher), an openly gay police officer, who is not in favor of his childish antics. Joining Peralta in the squad is his rival, Detective Amy Santiago (Melissa Fumero), the no-nonsense, sometimes hostile, Detective Rosa Diaz (Stephanie Beatriz), his hard-working, ever-supportive best friend, Detective Charles Boyle ( Joe Lo Truglio), the duo who gets the least amount of work done, detectives Michael Hitchcock (Dirk Blocker), and Norm Scully ( Joel McKinnon Miller), the masculine, yoghurtloving, Sergeant Terry Jeffords (Terry Crews), and his sarcastic childhood friend, Gina Linetti (Chelsea Perretti).

Based on the characters of Archie comic-books, Riverdale tells a story of a small town its intricate societal issues revolving around the lives of the Archie (KJ Apa), Betty (Lili Reinhart), Jughead (Cole Sprouse), and Veronica (Camila Mendes) complicated by the relationships of their parents. The series’ first season which piloted in 2016 focused on the “accidental death” which turned out as murder case of Jason Blossom who was the lover of Betty’s sister, Polly. From there, the four main leads continuously unraveled the mystery behind Jason’s death and the secrets of their town. The season took a major detour from the high school drama into more complicated issues involving politics and solving of serial killer case. Further seasons continuously leading the people of the town especially Archie, Betty, Jughead, and Veronica into the darker and deeper problems of their town. Riverdale is an American mystery teen drama television series that would keep you conspiring with the main characters especially with Betty and Jughead in each episode. The development of the characters in each season are prominent. Every twist and conflict, both interpersonal and intrapersonal, adds spice to the story. The story entails about sacrifices in order to keep your loved ones safe and home. Riverdale will always haunt you and lead you to the mysteries of the town itself and its people. VOL 85 // NO. 1 // MARCH 2019

It Ends With Us, by Colleen Hoover

“We can choose the people who hurt us, and that people who we love the most have the power to do just that.”

REVIEWS

An Atlas of Lilies

Love takes different kinds of form but one thing is for sure, it universally changes people. By Everild Dominique A. Camique and Rj Junsay Photo Credits amazon.com and goodreads.com

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Rating: 4.5/5.0 “Cycles exist for they are excruciating to break.” The book starts off with Lily Bloom, sitting on a ledge on a roof in Boston, twelve hours after she gave a disastrous eulogy at her father’s funeral. Just after a few minutes of solitude, she encounters an angry and a slightly destructive man named Ryle Kincaid. The two share a conversation and she opened up to him about how she was asked to say five great things at her father’s wake, but ultimately came up with nothing. Their conversation is halted by a phone call and the two bid goodbye. That was the first of the many encounters they have that eventually led to a whirlwind romance, where she learns that Ryle wasn’t the man she thought he was. The first parts of the novel delves into the development of Lily and Ryle’s relationship, where the two fell in love, giving the reader a glimpse of their instant connection with each other. It makes one believe that the love they had was indeed true. And it was, for a while. The rock that was thrown was the return of Lily’s first love, Atlas Corrigan, which spurred doubt in Ryle’s heart. It then opens up to a devastating reality that Lily has to face, when the truth of Ryle’s nature is brought to the surface. With crippling scenes and thoughtprovoking dialogues, the story speaks of the experience of loving someone that will eventually destroy you. This makes the reader realize that the we can choose the people who hurt us, and that people who we love the most has the power to do just that. It faces the issue of a difficult choice, between having to stay and deal with it, or to leave and search for something better, and the person that was lost in the process. It makes one think about the hardship that comes with that choice, the regret and hesitation that one must feel when faced with that decision. Lily is the very portrayal of that struggle. It is never easy to leave those who once showed us love, in the hopes that they will revert back to the person they once were.

writers and even from his students and dedicated it to all the days of the year. Filled as well with beautifully created artworks for each day, surely this book will leave a mark on your heart. In reality, 100 of the precepts published in this book came from students who sent Palacio their own precepts after reading Wonder. Aside from the quotes, Mr. Browne also shared about his past experiences which pushed him to be eager in engraving to the hearts of his students the value of kindness and compassion. His personal narratives added color to the book starting from his habit of giving a daily precept to his students. Exchange of emails from Summer, Julian, Augie, Jack, and from other students showed how genuine and innocent children could be. It will take you back to your elementary memories of committing mistakes and making friends for the first time. This book also would give you a nostalgic feeling about the teachers and people who influenced you since you are a child. One can definitely finish the whole book in less than three hours. This book shows the significance of great mentors present at the very young age of people. Palacio ensure his readers of another thoughtprovoking and soul-stirring book with 365 Days of Wonder.

365 Days of Wonder

Rating: 4.8/5.0 “If you ever feel lost, let your heart be your compass.,” - Emily This is one of the 365 precepts from the book 365 Days of Wonder. From the perspective of Auggie Pullman in the book “Wonder” written by one of the up and coming novelists of this generation, R.J. Palacio; he gives you another book about kindness. From the point of view of Mr. Browne, the fifth-grade English teacher of Auggie. Precepts as what Mr. Browne would describe are “words to live by”. He compiled precepts from various people including notable people, artists, philosophers, famous

“We carry within us the wonders we seek around us” Sir Thomas Browne

“Yes, a dark time passed over this land,but now there is something like light.” -Dave Eggers

Photograph • Bobbiejo M. Healey

The Augustinian Mirror March 2019

Articles inside

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