USA Little Theater stages Babaye...
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Excellent Campus Journalism for the Common Good the Official student newspaper of the UNIVERSITY OF san agustin iloilo city, philippines
VOL. 55 NO. 6
FEBRUARY 16 - march 31, 2008
San Ag welcomes Jun Lozada By PIETROS VAL PATRICIO
MARCH 14, 2008 has marked another historic moment for the University of San Agustin as ZTE-NBN star witness Rodolfo Noel “Jun” Lozada, Jr. visited the university grounds for a courtesy call in Iloilo City before the end of the second semester. Lozada was welcomed by the Augustinian community during his arrival from the airport at around 7:00 AM in the morning. He was greeted with a welcome breakfast hosted the administrators and later shook hands with students around the campus before proceeding with the “march for truth” starting from the university’s front gate along Gen. Luna St. up to the auditorium of the De Paul College in Jaro district where he held his speech on the government’s controversial National Broadband Network (NBN) agreement with China’s ZTE Corporation. Among those present during the event were various social sectors from the entire Iloilo province. The Augustinian delegation was headed by the Student Council and the Prefect of Students accompanied by several faculty members and students predominantly from the College of Arts and Sciences. With its black banners crying for truth and public
integrity, the university is demanding from the Arroyo administration “ZTE Deal: The Truth Must Be Known.” According to media reports, Lozada was granted a permit from the city government to march and hold a speech in the city despite countless threats. He was accompanied by members of Bayan Panay and Youth Act Now along with the active participation of local nongovernment organizations. His short stint in Iloilo was said to be his first trip by plane since his arrival in the country from Honk Kong in early February. Earlier on February 28, the university has also partaken during the nationwide “interfaith rally” where, together with the St. Vincent Ferrer Seminary, it was lauded by activist speakers for its ‘official stand’ on the ZTE controversy and full support from their respective administrations during the peaceful demonstrations. National outrage calling for an end to corruption and withdrawal of public trust from Pres. Gloria MacapagalArroyo broke out all over the country since the groundbreaking testimonies of Jun Lozada on the anomalous deal at the Philippine Senate earlier this year.
NOTHING CONQUERS EXCEPT TRUTH. Inspired with the words of St. Augustine, the Augustinian family joins the Filipino nation in its search for truth in the ZTE deal.
Renowned political writer lectures at San Agustin By PIETROS VAL PATRICIO
PRESIDENT’S Conference Room One of the country’s foremost political writers recently came back at the University of San Agustin to conduct a unifying lecture among some of Western Visayas’ leading politicallyconcerned poets and fictionists. On February 14, as part of the Alternative Classes, Dr. E. San Juan, Jr. flew in to Iloilo City to hold his second open forum seminar on literature in the University entitled “Poetics and Politics: Textualizing Human Rights” coinciding with the launching of his new book Salud Algabre at iba pang mga bagong tula, a collection of poems in Filipino covering the country’s current social issues published by the
San Juan, Jr.
USA Publishing House. The unifying event was attended by leading writers from all over the region whose literary works are geared towards social justice and advocacy. Insights were given on present trends of globalization such as the exodus of 3,600 Filipinos out of the country everyday due to poverty, failure of good leadership and political strife. San Juan also expressed the present status of the Philippines as a neo-colony of its former colonizer, the United States. A true believer of Marxism, he also stressed that “the values of humanity are generally lost and neglected” when it comes to mainstream capitalism where mankind would fall pray to excessive trade and
profit making. People only work to earn money for survival means rather than intellectual pursuits and therefore become mere objects of consumerism. These are one of the reasons why educational institutions have become the last retreat for intellectual values in our society these days. The event was noted to be the “first of its kind” in the country as the forum was conducted in five languages, namely in Hiligaynon, Kinaray-a, Aklanon, Filipino and English. Western Visayas has also been classified as one of the country’s most linguistically diverse regions being home to various indigenous tongues. The round table discussion was made possible through the efforts of the Fray Luis Creative Writing Institute together with the Martin de Rada Human Rights Bureau. Dr. E. San Juan, Jr., a Filipino resident in the US who graduated at UP Diliman and later pursued postgraduate studies at Harvard University, has been a Fulbright Professor of American Studies at a Catholic university in Belgium and a visiting professor of literature and cultural studies at the National Tsing Hua University in Taiwan. He is an award-winning author whose countless books on sociopolitical criticism have been previously translated in Russian, German, Spanish, French, and Mandarin among others. He also directs the Philippines Cultural Studies Center in Connecticut and helps with the Philippine Forum in New York City.
First Augustinian Fulbright to address 2008 graduates Dr. Ernesto S. De La Cruz, the first Augustinian Fulbright Scholar, will address the Class of 2008 during the 100th Commencement Exercises on April 5, 2008. He was born in Sibalom, Antique on May 8, 1929. He initially studied at San Jose Elementary School, and then while in Grade 5, transferred to Sibalom Elementary School where he finished his elementary education in 1940. After graduation at the Antique High School, now Antique National School, in 1949, he proceeded to the Colegio de San Agustin in Iloilo City where he earned his B.S. Education Major in English and History in 1952. He worked as a classroom teacher and head of Related Subjects Department of the Antique National Agricultural School (ANAS) in San Remigio, Antique from 1952 to 1958. He was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship in 1958. He left for the United States and studied at the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA) where he earned his Certificate in the Teaching of English as a Second Language as a Fulbright Scholar in 1959, Master of Arts in education as a Rotary Scholar in 1960 and Doctor of Education as an Asia Foundation Fellow in 1961. He returned to the Philippines and served as Dean of the Graduate School of Iloilo Normal College from 1963 to 1964 and Dean of the Graduate School of Education of Aklan College from 1964 to 1969.
He went back to the United States and worked as a Graduate Library Assistant at the University of Missouri in Columbia while pursuing his Master of Arts in Library and Information Science. From 1971 to 1972, he served as Associate Professor in Library Science at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. He transferred to California and worked at the Oxnard Public Library as Coordinator of Library Services from 1973 to 1976 and Assistant Library Director from 1976 to 1989. He led the formation of the Antique Association of Southern California based in Los Angeles and served as its first president from 1973 to 1983. From 1969 up to the present, Dr. De La Cruz has continuously supported the education of deserving poor Antqiueño students through his scholarship project. He has also been sending books to Antique schools. He was honored as one of the most Distinguished Alumni of the Antique National School in 1976, received the Bugal kang Antique Award in 1978, Dungganon nga Antiqueño nga award in 2004 (Tops Antique, Inc.) and Antiqueño Ako Award in 2004 (The Rotary Club of Antique). His retirement projects are Bridging Gaps and Giving Back to the Community. He resides alternately in San Jose, Antique, Philippines and in Oxnard, California, U.S.A.
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NEWS
The Augustinian
FEBRUARY 16 - march 31, 2008
Editor: CARA UY
NSTP-CWTS Holds Love Gift at Asilo By Jefferson B. Magbanua
Pambansang Live-in Seminar sa Pagtuturo ng Filipino, matagumpay na idinaos Ni ELSED TOGONON
MATAGUMPAY na idinaos ang Pambansang live-in seminar sa Pagtuturo ng Filipino (Wika at Literatura) Tugon sa Modernong Pagkatuto, na pinamunuan ng Departamento ng mga Wika ng Pamantasan ng San Agustin noong Ika-24 hanggang 25 ng Enero sa Punta Villa Resort, Sto. Niño Sur, Arevalo. Iba’t ibang mga paksa ang tinalakay ng mga tagapagsalita hinggil sa mga pamaagi at pagsasanay ng mga guro sa pagtuturo ng masining na pagtatanghal. Kabilang sa mga topikong inilahad ay ang Semiotika ng Tabing at Tanghalan na tinalakay nina Propesor Erwin Sustento, mula sa Unibersidad ng San Agustin at Propesor John Labos, mula sa Unibersidad ng Pilipinas sa Visayas. Samantala, ang Sining ng Pagtatanghal sa Entablado naman ay inilahad nina Propesor Edward Divinagracia at Propesor Eric Divinagracia na kapwa mga eksperto sa entablado. Sa ikalawang araw ng kumperensya, idiniskas naman ni Propesor Patrocinio Villafuerte ang mga pamaraan tungo sa masining na pagkukuwento, deklamasyon, at sabayang pagbibigkas. Sa pamamagitan ng open forum, nagkapalitan ang mga nagsidalo ng mga ideya kung paano mas mapalaganap at mapauswag ang wikang Filipino gamit ang entablado at iba pang masining na pagtatanghal. Ang kumperensyang ito ay tinambungan ng iba’t ibang mga delegado na kinabibilangan ng mga superbisor, tagapamahala ng paaralan, puno ng departamento, mga guro at mga estudyante na nagmimedyor sa Filipino.
Alternative class on perfect romance By Aljun Padisio
The University of San Agustin Student Council (USASC) conducted an alternative class during the University Week, including the class on “Perfect Romance” with Dr. Roque Carballo, Director of the Institute for Values and Professional Development (IVPD), on February 14, 2008 at Aguirre Hall, 2nd floor. In his class, Dr. Roque taught the college students about what is the meaning of true and perfect love. Doc Roque also discussed the kinds of love- physical, emotional and spiritual love and gives the students some examples to ponder. There were so many varieties of alternative class available for all Augustinian students; there were also sports classes, business discussions, medical lessons and many more that teach us to be more ethical and morally good in order to acquire virtues and knowledge as Augustinians. Alternative classes started after the mass, held from 10am -12nn and then 1pm- 3pm and the last batch of class was at 3pm- 5pm.
J.I.E. Teodoro launches 7th Book at Museo Iloilo By Mario Ivan Gonzales
“Adik ako sa paghigugma. Amo ria nga nasulat ko ang libro nga dya…Kag sin-o ang makabasol kanakün? Nami ang maghigugma.”(I’m addicted to love. That’s the reason why I was able to write this book… And who can blame me? It’s good to be in love.) These are excerpts from the opening remarks of Palanca awardee and USA Publications moderator John Iremil Teodoro as he welcomes guests and colleagues for the launching of his seventh book, Mga Binalaybay kang Paghigugma (Love Poems), at the Museo Iloilo on February 14. The book is a compilation of his poems that are centered on love and loving, with the oldest poem dated 1992 and his most recent works in 2007. Most of his poems are mere reflections of his personal experiences translated into perfectly expressed poems that guarantee a good read to the readers and suckers for love poems. He fluently used straight Kinaray-a language as a medium of expression to of his poems so as to express more his feelings through his poems.
NSTP-CWTS (National Service Training Program-Civic Welfare Training Service) coordinators and 30 monitors held Love Gift, a charity program of the NSTP-CWTS team at Asilo de Molo, February 23. The said program, which lasted for almost two hours, served as a postValentine’s Day date of the student monitors and the elderly at Asilo de Molo. According to NSTP-CWTS Co-coordinator Nestor Patrocinio, Love Gift was an Augustinian way of reaching out to the elderly to make them feel loved, emphasizing, “The youth nowadays tend to give less priority for our elderly, that’s why we conceptualized such activity.” The 30 Augustinian students present during the event gave out two large plastic bags of new pairs of slippers to the elderly. Bachelor of Science in Nursing freshmen Janine Balasa, Sheena Gallos, Sieger Paul Amoloria, and Arrian Calvo entertained the Asilo de Molo residents with four song and dance numbers.
Patrocinio said the student monitors’ initiative to enthrall the elderly in the said house of the aged brought happiness to the lolos and lolas and he added, “Love Gift is likewise a continuation of our outreach program conducted last
December 8, 2007.” Furthermore, Patrocinio mentioned that all of his students in the said subject will participate in the 2008 Skills Olympics on March 8 at the university gymnasium, adding, “This will be a two and a half-hour culminating activity of the NSTPCWTS 2007-2008 program wherein students will be asked to perform basic life support system operations for evaluation.”
SC Alumni Gathering Initiated By Jefferson Magbanua
The first Student Council Grand Alumni Homecoming was initiated by current Student Council President Christian Gregoire Tioco and coofficers on February 16, a day after the finale of the University Week celebrations. The gathering enabled Tioco’s administration to trace the history of the University’s student council, establish linkages with the alumni of the council, and present future plans for fund sourcing. During the convention at Emilion Function Center, Tioco elucidated his desire to change the
student council constitution and accumulated leadership stories from the alumni. Eight student council alumni graced the event, namely, Roy Rezano (President, 2000-2001), Leeman Jigs Ambata (President, 2002-2003), Khristopher Ian Magboo (1st Vice-President, 20042005), Sedfrey Cabaluna (Secretary General 2003-2004, 2004-2005), May Tolentino (Secretary 20002001), Jesse Rey Maravilla (Secretary 2003-2004), Jay Plantinos (Asst. Treasurer, 20042005), and Rex Carton (Auditor,
2002-2003). Alumni Association President Vivian Lou Inayan also attended the get-together activity and delivered a message on her impressions on the student council. Moreover, Tioco admitted they missed the target number of 30 participants but said it was “a good start” and added, “Former council members wish to have a continuity of the homecoming and I hope that the next set of student council officers could gather council alumni from Manila and other places outside Iloilo.”
USAGIASA pays tribute to graduating working students By SHEENA CAPINDO
Graduation for some is a moment of recognition of students’ dedication but for working students, it symbolizes triumph for more than four years of hardship and undying service rendered to the University. On February 17, the University of San Agustin Grant-In-Aid Scholars Association (USAGIASA) paid tribute to the 61 graduating students at the USA gymnasium. The program started with a mass held at the USA Chapel followed by the entrance of graduates with their respective parents/guardians. A new set of officers for the academic year 2008-09 of the USAGIASA was also
inducted. For this year’s graduation, Jovito Pastrana of the Prefect of Discipline from Holy Rosary Academy was the inspirational speaker. He elaborated the importance of education and his experiences when he was once a working student at the University of San Agustin. Awarding of certificates and medals to the GIAS achievers for cocurricular and academic awards also took place. Girlie Espinosa, El Jancorda, Lorena Galaraga and Michael Lapating were awarded as representatives of the year while Michael Lumagbas,
Julie Ann Portugalete and Guada Rose Domingo were declared as the officers of the year. Johnny Esmilla Jr. of the Registrar’s Office and Editor in Chief of USA Publications received the Outstanding GIAS of the Year Award. He also gave an inspirational message to the graduating GIAS. The program became emotional when the awarding ceremony of the graduating GIAS of 2008 was being conducted. Lizel Star Tanangonan read the will and testament of batch 2008 while Winnielyn Hormigoso rendered the prophecy.
Tioco Targets Digital Clock and Alumni President offers farm lot to Gaward Kalinga Wi-Fi Installment before June By Johnny Esmilla Jr.
Inayan
Whoever thinks that alumni efforts are just confined to the University has not yet met Mrs. Vivian Lou Inayan. Mrs. Inayan, USA Alumni Association President, has offered to
Gawad Kalinga three hectares of farm lot located in Luca, Ajuy, Iloilo for a community development project. The offer came after she attended the Gawad Kalinga Builders Institute (GKBI) Panay and Negros Island Conference cum Gawad Kalinga Township Development Workshop on November 23, 2007 at the West Visayas State University, Lapaz, Iloilo City. The gathering aimed to promote the spirit of Gawad Kalinga through the GKBI, share basic information about the GKBI in light of possible replication among participating institutions, and to plan and prepare
for the upcoming Gawad Kalinga Township Development Summits in Panay and Negros Islands. In a similar note, the National Service Training Program – Civic Welfare Training Service component headed by its coordinator Mr. Larry Guatelara has been using the fish pond property of Mrs. Inayan located at Punta Bato, Ajuy, Iloilo for seminars and workshops and outreach projects. Mrs. Inayan is available at the USA Alumni Association Office in the 2nd floor of the Alumni Hall on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12:00 to 3:00 pm.
By Jefferson Magbanua
The student council president said Wednesday, February 27, that his administration’s last two projects, the Digital Clock and Wi-Fi Installation, will be realized before the end of his term in June. Christian Gregoire Tioco, student council president, said that he targets a Digital Clock to be placed at the Student Center (Alumni Building) for Augustinian standards time reference. Tioco also confirmed that he had dialogues with the University’s head officials for the approval of the Wi-Fi Installation at the library and Student Center.
Tioco said the Batch 1958 of the University of San Agustin High School has expressed its desire to solely fund the Digital Clock. He likewise affirmed the installation of Wi-Fi, stating, “Since the students pay for internet fee but not all could easily access the internet in the library, we are pushing for the installation of Wi-Fi.” Focusing on the battle cry Virtus et Scientia since the start of their commitment to the students, Tioco and his co-officers aimed to foster student learning and development through their projects.
NEWS
FEBRUARY 16 - march 31, 2008
The Augustinian
Editor: CARA UY
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USALT participates in Tanghal 2! By Cara Uy and Niña Ricci Matulac
ZAMBOANGA CITY- The University of San Agustin Little Theater (USALT) through the University of San Agustin Center for Culture and the Arts and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) participated in the 2nd National University Theater Festival dubbed as Tanghal2! on February 19-23. Participation of the USALT is significant in the national theater movement and promotion of culture and the arts since the University of San Agustin hosted last year’s Tanghal. The USALT members who joined the event were as follows: Gregy Araceña, Peter Paul Deocos, Ma. Jellyn Gonzales, Niña Ricci Matulac, Quessy Claire Pedregosa, John Jesner Punsaran, Dyesel Moya and Christopher Tan. With the group were Kristopher Rhys Grabato, USALT alumnus; Edward Divinagracia, USALT’s Artistic Director and Eric Divinagracia, Co-Curricular Office Coordinator. Other participants of the event included about 300-500 theater artists and students from different colleges and universities, Dramatic Arts teachers, theater directors and organizers of theater performances nationwide. The festival also showcased paper
presentation, lecture demonstration, theater shows and fringe performances (15-25 minutes). Meanwhile, USALT performed “Babaye” a poetry in motion, which gained enormous applause from spectators. The event would not have been possible without the joint efforts of NCCA, National Committee on Dramatic Arts through the Association of Creative Performing Artists of Zamboanga, Inc., Western Mindanao State University and the local government.
Humanities Department holds Abstract Painting Contest By Jenny Castro
D r. C r u z awards the certificate to Palomo
During the celebration of the University Week, the Humanities Department, headed by Dr. Isidoro M. Cruz, held its annual project, the USA Art Contest and Exhibit last February 15 at the Co-Curricular Office. Reymark Palomo, a BFA 2 student from the College of Engineering and Architecture, won the first place of the said contest receiving a prize of Php 3,000. The painting was entitled “The Pain of Heart”, and the medium used was oil paint. The second place went to Norce
Salazar, also a BFA 2 student, and received a prize of Php 1,500. The painting was entitled “Losing Hope, A Journey Within”, and the medium used was oil, enamel on canvass. The participants were from the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Engineering and Architecture, College of Nursing, College of Business Administration and Accountancy, and College of Pharmacy and Medical Technology. The judges of the contest were Mr. Rey Defante Gibraltar and Mr. Joseph Firmeza.
Witnessing CBAA’s Sad-Sad festival By Aljun Padisio
T he C o l l e g e o f B u s i n e s s Administration and Accountancy (CBAA) celebrated the University Week with their well-known “Sad-sad Festival” on February 15, 2008 with the theme, “CBAA: A Joint Venture of Love and Excellence.” This showcased commerciantes’ talents and skills not only as business enthusiasts but also as street dancers. Four departmental organizations competed to get the cup namely: The Junior Institute for Marketing Executives (JIMEX), Junior Associates of Management Entrepreneur (JAMEN), Junior Philippine Institute of Accountants (JPIA), and Junior Philippine Association of Management Accountants (JPAMA). Everyone was striving, everyone aimed to win, everyone tried to perform well to achieve their very goal, to be the champion in the Sad-sad but finally, the judgment time had to come, JPMA got the first place, JAMEN was the first runner-up, JPIA was the second runner-up and the JIMEX, was third runner-up. In the Beginning The birth of CBAA’s Sad-sad Festival was in 2004, created by the Junior Business Administrators and Accountants (JBAA) president at that time, Christine Lerio and in 2005, this was adapted by the University and the competition was among the different colleges of the school. In the CBAA’s Sad-sad Festival in 2004 and 2006 the competition was among all the sections of CBAA and in 2007 and 2008. This was changed and the competition now is among the departmental organizations. As the years passed by, Sad-sad Festival became more innovative, became clearer in concept, and more challenging not only to the street dancers but also for the commerciantes that participated in the breath- taking event.
There was less time to practice and to prepare the props because of a hectic schedule, there was some sort of financial problems, overtime, dancing under the rain, these were some of the challenges that were conquered by the tribes during their preparation. Despite all those, tribesmen strove to perform well to win or lose, the most important thing was they conquered, they enjoyed. Aiming High “Tribu Handumanon” was the tribe of the JAMEN. CBAA is quite decreasing in its population compared from the past few years but JAMEN believes that through their aspirations, the population of the commerciantes will grow and will be merrier. Their costume was made of recycled materials, showing their organizational T-shirt and the colors that identified them were yellow and white. Their concept was about warriors that aimed to be remembered and to be looked up someday and they were revitalized after they got the 1st runner-up in the competition after an “exhausting practice” as what Bryille Japeth Datu-on, JAMEN president defined their struggles after extracting the fruits of their sacrifices. Inspiration not Destruction The JIMEX, having the yellow, blue, red, and orange colors, distinguished their identity from other tribes. “San-Ag” was their tribe name which is a common term used to depict University of San Agustin. They wore masks with colored feathers and wearing also their organizational Tshirt as their costume. The heavy rains and overtime in practicing were also some of the challenges faced by the Tribu San-Ag and the tribe was able to perform at their best. The Tribu San-Ag ranks as the 3rd runner-up in
the Sad-sad. The United Augustinian Next Is the Tribu Souk Ahras of the JPIAns. Souk Ahras was the old name of Tagaste, the place of Saint Augustine, the Bishop of Hippo. The color that marked the JPIA were red and gold meaning, love and excellence. As what the other tribes experienced, JPIAns also experienced so many challenges but as what they have said “winning is our aim but hey we do not have to expect it, just enjoy.” The tribe also wanted to show that they were not only JPIAns but they were also having the spirit of an Augustinian. Tribu Souk Ahras portrayed two separate tribes with different tradition and beliefs but finally, they were united as what we need to do as Augustinians. Souk Ahras was second runner-up in the competition. At its Best The pride of JPAMA, “Tribu Damguhanon” got the first place in the said event. They were also the champion in last years’ Sad-sad and tremendously got all the minor awards, namely, best in street dancing, best in music, best in creative costume, best in discipline, and best in mascara. They had a unique costume, the dream catcher and this was where the name of their tribe came from, they were body painted with orange and white. Almost all of the tribes faced so many tests but the Tribu Damguhanon excelled at the end. This festival would not of course have been possible without the cooperation of the fellow commerciantes hoping that spirit of Augustinian will be constant and continuous not only on this one-day celebration but this activity, the Sad-sad Festival would teach us a new kind of lesson- love and unity.
OUTSTANDING STUDENTS IN CO-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES (A.Y. 2007-2008) I. SPECIAL AWARDS Carpio, Aimee Khristine Escaner, Wilson John Ortuoste, Michelle II. USA BAND Abalyan, Christopher Boltron, Ma. Lian Karen Joy Ledesma, Rus Will Namata, Alan Lloyd Nolasco, Jenero Paul Sionson, Arthur III. SPECIAL AWARDS IN DANCE Danieles, Sherenel-Anne G. Alconga, Chester
Janolino, Alarie Grace Lazaro, Ruthlyn I V. S P E C I A L A W A R D S I N DRAMATICS Gonzales, Ma. Jellyn Gafate, Marilou V. A C H I E V E R S ’ AWA R D S I N ACADEMICS Alabot, Mae Therese A. Almendros, Maria Jilyn Amisaga, Andre Pearl Dorado, Jose Herman Esmilla Jr., Johnny Gabayeron, Jelly Mae B.
Gallenero, Serren lor Jalandoni, Ryan Pederegoza, Paul Sampiano, Federico J. Silayro, Thea Angela Tribunal, Larry Lou VI. ACHIEVERS’ AWARDS IN LEADERSHIP Asuncion, Antonio Miguel Dorado, Jose Herman VII. ACHIEVERS’ AWARDS IN LITERARY, ARTS, DANCE, AND MUSIC Alabot, Mae Therese A. Balensoy, Danica Ellane
Bañes,Irish May Basco, regine Melissa P. Caceres, Ira Corral, Mel John L. Divinagracia, Mark Esmilla Jr., Johnny Hermo, Kayla Krista S. Hurtuda, Mayjan Jalandoni, Ryan Janolino, Alarrie Jarencio, Christine Mae Ladrido, Patric Daniel O. Lazaro, Ruthlyn Lorca, Rey John M. Niño IV, Benjamin C. Ornos, Rio Jay Paguntalan, john Victor
Paris, Mary Zeliet Salvoza, Lady Ashiree Silayro, Bena Marisse P. Sorongon, Christian D. VIII. ACHIEVERS’ AWARDS IN SPORTS Alasa, Loveny Alejandra, Zoe Jon Bayoneta, Shan Mari Cabasac, Kristine B. Cabasac, April Rose Calle, Meiji Catolico, Alexandra Nicole Cerbas, Michelle Dayang, Allan Erasga, Elnar Christian
Hernando, Andre Lamasan, Lawrence Victor Lamis, Sunshine Leonardia, Jessica Marqueliña, Mylene Pador, Kyle Patrick S. Pedregosa, Lyd paolo Perez, Jedd Andre Poral, Yz Rubinos Jr., Robin Secaluya, Jason Brian Tadlas, May Jales Traigo, Jenny Rose Vidriom Gizelle D. Villanueva, Edrich John Villanueva, Ernice James
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OPINION
The Augustinian
FEBRUARY 16 - march 31, 2008
With wounded knees
Missing the “A”
The University of San Agustin always pride itself as one of the leading institutions of higher learning in Western Visayas. In the previous years, the University had come out with advertisements encouraging students to enroll in the University because we have a “Class A” education. The “A” actually stands for Augustinian, Autonomous and Accredited. The University has always considered the importance of accreditation of its programs. Voluntary accreditation provides the opportunity for an educational institution to attain standards above those prescribed as minimum requirements by the government. The University considers the accreditation of its Liberal Arts program, the first to be accredited in the region, in 1977 as a historical milestone. The accrediting agency that checks the standards of our programs is the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU). Since 1977, PAASCU has accredited our other programs. This accreditation has been sustained as evidenced by the garnering of the Level III status of our Liberal Arts, Education and Law programs. Recent developments however, threaten our accreditation and ultimately our “Class A” education. The 2007 Directory published by the PAASCU shows that our accreditation for most of our programs had expired last December 2007. The expiration of our accreditation should be a big concern for all of us, especially for students. Aside from the prestige of studying and graduating from an “accredited” institution, accreditation gives the University the authority to graduate students without prior approval from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and without the need for a Special Order for graduation. Other benefits, among others, include authority to revise the curriculum without CHED approval and financial and administrative deregulation from CHED. We could lose all of these benefits. The silence and indifference of our administrators, faculty, students and staff regarding the rescheduled (and rescheduled again) re-accreditation of our programs is something alarming which we need to examine. The importance of accreditation cannot be overemphasized. The task of maintaining accreditation is the responsibility of all stakeholders of the university. It is high time that all of us realize that. The University of San Agustin offers “Class A” education. Let us remember that accreditation is a part of that.
Editorial
We run so fast to reach our dreams and sometimes we fall on the ground. But don’t despair because the most successful people in this tricky world are those with wounded knees. This column is not fir those who run but for those who are too afraid to get wounded. This is my last column and I have already finished it during the Christmas vacation. I didn’t want to say good-bye. I just can’t. Subconsciously, I feel that saying goodbye would cutoff the lifeline that I have with the USA Publications, the family that nurtured me for the past three years. And so, I would talk about the most important lesson that I’ve learned. Life has a funny way of teaching lessons. Usually, you’ll learn it when the end is near. After four years, I finally learned my lesson which has made me enjoy the remainder of my college life: Do not fear failure. I am a proud man and my biggest fear was to lose in contests and to get hurt. It stemmed from the overwhelming expectations that the persons surrounding me were hurling at me. I got the feeling that I should always win. It’s as if the number of medals and recognition that I get is the measure of who I am. And so, I lived my life the safest way possible. In order not to lose, I didn’t join any contest. In order not to get hurt, I didn’t take any risk. I didn’t dare write anything that could hurt others. I had spent the last four years living with this fear of loss and rejection. I only joined contests that I knew I could win or when I knew I could blame somebody if I lose. There were opportunities that I let go because I was afraid. In the end, I had clear knees but a wounded heart. The cycle of letting go of opportunities continued until the day I joined the 6th Visayas Rizal Youth Leadership Institute in Cebu City. I was there to join the essay writing contest but like before I kept telling myself and my friends that I would lose. I didn’t even tell my classmates that I would be going there. But the Institute had changed the way I feel.
Enthymeme
THE
augustinian
Editor in Chief Managing Editor Associate Editors Senior Writers Staff Writers Staff Artist Circulation Officer Moderator
Johnny Esmilla Jr. Pietros Val Patricio Mario Ivan Gonzales Elsed Togonon Cara Uy Paulo Moises Bayabos Jenny Castro Jefferson Magbanua Dawn Arañador Karlo Christopher Cristales Angel Marie Medel Aljun Padisio William Fusin Jr. Sheena Capindo J.I.E. Teodoro
The Augustinian is the official student newspaper of the University of San Agustin. It is published six times a year by the USA Publications with editorial office at Room 38, 3rd Floor, Gamboa Hall, University of San Agustin, Gen. Luna St., 500 Iloilo City. Comments, suggestions, and contributions may be sent to the Editorial Board through the email address pubpipol@usa.edu.ph.
The Augustinian community would like to reach out its deepest condolences to the family of Mrs. Diosdadita Arungayan, former moderator of the USA Publications, who has peacefully joined the presence of our Lord on March 22, 2008. May we request for your prayers for the eternal repose of her soul.
Elsed Togonon Lahat tayo ay tumatahak sa iba’t ibang uri ng daan: may tuwid na daan, may liku-likong daan, may sementadong daan, at meron namang lubak-lubak na daan. Kung ano mang uri na daan ang inuusoy natin, layunin ng bawat isa sa atin ang marating ang ating destinasyon. Ako, marahil, bilang estudyante na magtatapos ngayong Abril, ay halos parating na sa hangganan ng aking paroroonan. Ito ang hangganan ng buhay-kolehiyo. At ang pagsisimula ng bagong kabanata sa kuwento ng aking kabuhi. Sa lahat siguro ng mga karanasan, kalakip ang mga paghihirap, kasiyahan, tagumpay at pagkatalo, nahihirapan akong tukuyin kung aling daan ang aking tinatahak. Mabuti na lamang at noong ikaapat na Marso, isang pambihirang kaganapan ang natabo sa aking buhay na nagpaa-alala sa akin ng kahulugan ng aking paglalakbay.
Before the Institute, I had always felt that writing was something I did because I had to. Because of that, I had felt that writing was a chore. And there is nothing more than being forced to do something that can kill passion. Being forced to do something would make you feel the desire to do something slowly being drained out of your system. In that Institute, there was one activity which changed all of these. We were asked to take off an imaginary jacket – the jacket of all our fears, doubts and disbeliefs. We were asked to take off all that we did not like about ourselves. To my surprise, after taking off the “jacket”, I realized that writing wasn’t an add-on to myself. Writing was a part of me. A part of me which I neglected because of need. After that, I wrote my very “first” essay. I joined the contest not because I wanted to win but because I have something to write. And in the absence of competition, when I was not afraid to lose, I “wrote” for the very first time. The same thing happened in the ILOPRISAA extemporaneous contest. For the first time, I spoke not because I have somebody to please but because I have something to say. The stage was mine and I used the three minutes given to me in order to say the things that I really wanted to say. But the real lesson came not when I was winning. It was so easy to say that I wasn’t doing it for the prize. It was easy to say that I was doing it because I love it. But the moment I lost, it hurt. And I lost big time. Not only were my knees wounded, they were bleeding. But it was the prize that I had to pay for doing what I want. When I went to Baguio, I told everyone that I was going to join a National Essay Writing Contest. I was thinking of what to write and I told myself and the others who were wishing me luck that I wasn’t there to win. I was there to write. It hurt, The moment I lost, all of the insecurities came back. I told myself that it wasn’t worth it. If I
The Pensieve
Johnny Esmilla, JR. hadn’t gone, I wouldn’t have been hurt. If I just had let the opportunity pass by, I wouldn’t have to bear the feeling of being unworthy. I wanted to cry but I didn’t. I remembered the jacket and I realized that I was putting it on again. I didn’t want that anymore. And there and then, I learned life’s lesson. A wounded knee, bleeding at times, is the prize that we, who run after our desires and dreams, have to pay. In the moment of failure, I asked myself, “Was it worth the pain?” It was. All the agony was worth it. It was worth the pain because I had done what I wanted to. It was worth the pain because I loved what I did. It was worth the pain because I was not doing it for the contest but I was doing it for myself. The pain blurred that thought but the lesson had been etched in my heart and the pain became a crowning glory. That is what I want to share with all of you. Don’t be afraid to fail but most of all, don’t be afraid to dream just because there is a probability of loss. It will hurt. Your knees will bleed. But in the end, you live life not to keep your knees clear but to follow your life’s purpose and dream. Losing hurts but not even trying is worse. I’ve tasted both worlds. On the bus back to Manila from Baguio, I just couldn’t hold off the tears. But the tears were not tears of self-pity, they were tears of self-knowledge. The wound is already healed but the scar remains, always reminding me of that night’s lesson. I’m glad that I learned thus before I step out of the University. For in the real world, I know that my knees will be wounded again. I would cry again. But at least, I already know the lesson.
Ang Munting Daan Ito ay ang pagtahak sa daang maaring konti lamang ang sumusubok na dumaan. Ang Munting Daan. Ngayong Araw ng Pagtatapos, tila ang ibang mag-aaral ay magmamartsa sa entablado kuwintas ang makikinang na mga medalya o dili kaya’y nakatusok sa kanilang toga ang lahat ng mga ribbon at sertipikasyon ng pagpapakilala. Ang karangalan kasi ang nagsusukat sa kung anong uri ng daan ang inagyan ng isang estudyante upang marating niya ang kanyang paroroonan. Sa isang banda, ang pagkuha ng karangalan o ang pagiging magna o summa cum laude, para sa iba, ang siyang batayan ng pagkatanggap sa kanila sa trabaho o propesyong nais nilang pasukin. Kaya nga sa apat na taon o higit pa ng kanilang pag-aaral, sinisikap nilang makakuha ng mataas na grado o dili kaya’y magkamit ng santambak na medalya upang sila ay magkaroon ng parangal sa bandang huli. Sa totoo lang, masarap itong isipin. Masarap kapag ang iyong itinanim ay magbunga ng masaganang ani. Nakakalungkot nga lang isipin na ang iba’y nahuhumaling sa paniniwalang ang pagtanggap ng mataas na grado ang siyang basehan ng talino o kaalam, na sa kalauna’y mag-aangat sa kanila sa rurok ng kadalag-an. Sa kasamaang palad, hindi
palagi ganito ang kaso. Marahil kapag ang isang tao ay makamundo, palagi niyang iisipin na ang katalinuhan ang siyang mahalagang sangkap ng pagiging TAO, kaya ang markang 1.0 ay maituturing na gahum. Ngunit, wika nga ng isa sa mga tinitingala kong guro, “in a spiritual world, what is a grade anyway?” Hindi sukatan ang pagiging kampeon sa kwis be o exremporaneous speaking kung ang simpleng pagtawid sa daan ay nagdadala sa iyo ng takot o pangamba na baka ika’y masagasaan ng dyip. O ang pagiging Doktor ng Pilosopiya kung lahat ng katrabaho mong guro ay nagrerebelde dahil sa baluktot mong polisi. Sa aking sapantaha ang pagtahak minsan sa isang grandiyosong daan ang nagdadala sa atin ng kasawian. Ang ambisyon na makilala o tingalain ng ibang tao ay maaring nitsa ng ating pagkahulog. Sa isang temporaryong mundo, hindi naman natin kailangan na maging trying hard na maging achiever upang tayo’y mahamut-an ng Diyos o ng ibang tao. Sa akin kasi, ang mumunting kabutihan o ang isang simpleng gawa na lingid sa kaalaman ng iba ang siyang mahalaga. Kababaang loob at pag-iwas sa pagpapakilala. Ito ang katuturan at kahalagahan ng Munting Daan.
OPINION
FEBRUARY 16 - march 31, 2008
My Love and I
Doble Kara
Cara Uy Writing is the fast relief that comforts every writer whenever s/he is happy or sad, blissful or sorrowful, excited or tormented, glorious or in pain, or simply gusto niya magpautwas sang balatyagon ukon hibubun-ot especially when s/he wants to scratch that feeling or to vent off such sentiment but only the pen can ease the itchiness within. Perhaps because writing makes us speak our minds and chase our thoughts into profound ideas which tickles us, holds us to smile, never leaves us although everybody is against us or nobody is with us to listen or to converse. Writing is one of the things writers call their own. It also guides us into a direction where we could see light and beauty in times when we are on a day’s flat tire or adversity. I and writing, as a process, understand each other even in silence, that is why although I stand alone, I will never leave such a process I personally call, my love. My love and I always talk about topics which would best interest you, our readers. Often, we end up arguing over petty things, particularly in the selection of the topics to write about because I for one is fickle-minded. I am fond of the attitude “I’ve changed my mind,” ending up with nothing to write about. I’ve changed my mind. Maybe everyone encounters this whenever we make decisions in
life. How many of us engage in relationships, yet in one way or another wanted to get out from a bond which almost choke us to death? Or maybe you wanted to get out because you have loved or prioritized something or someone over him/her? But since you have invested emotions, you would just say “I’ve changed my mind.” How many of you wanted to win the hearts of the ones you love yet ended up retreating because you are too afraid to be traded as losers later on? So you just say “I’ve changed my mind.” How many of you wanted to trust and never doubt yet after encountering a betrayal you mutter “I’ve changed my mind.” I’ve changed my mind. Weary and tired, I sat on the chair, browsed some stuff on the table in front of me and puffed Inviting God In, a Scriptural Reflections and Prayers Through out the Year written by Joyce Rupp, OSM accompanied me in my boredom. I came through these lines which brought me serenity for a while. I hope you’ll feel the same. We live in a world filled with activity. There’s nothing wrong with that. Activity and everyday endeavors can be healthy dimensions of life because this is where we are and where God is. It is out of this very nitty-gritty and whirlwind life that our spiritual growth can happen. Hurry and busyness, however, get to be unhealthy when we allow our activities to steal all our time away so that we never look inside to the wonderful world of the soul. True enough. Most of us are corrupted by work, work and work alone. Often do we fail to pause for sometime in order to pray? Well, I admit I feel guilty of this, too. We neglect the essentiality of prayer which is one of the basic needs of every individual to grow spiritually
Lunar Nostalgia At some point in your life, you tend to set a whole range of questions before you. You don’t remember having been formally oriented on how to live life the way you’ve planned it. Whatever it is, you’ve had your dreams fixed on one goal, which apparently has not turned out the way you’ve wanted to. You’ve once had your eyes fixed on reaching the finish line. Then you reach a certain age, live in a particular place at a particular time and slowly begin to realize that all this was not exactly what you’ve expected from the very beginning. And all of a sudden you turn out to become radical and you rebel against yourself and the people around you. Why is it almost impossible for us to live the life we’ve always wanted; what does this all mean? And what would come next? Oh, angst. This emotion is nothing new to us. Doesn’t it seem odd how we’re all born in this world without even getting briefed on how we want things to be? Why does everything have to occur by coincidence? One of the most striking things for us humans is our ability to adapt to and reinvent ourselves in everything new and crucial. Indeed, there is so much more to life than just a couple of series of events. Everything is dynamic. Despite your plans, you’ll be surprised that many years later, you’ve actually drawn a completely different life before your very eyes; then comes all the trials and judgment from the outside world. Talking about one’s personal experiences is never easy for there are many things that should rather be kept than said. We are more or less the filmmakers and the audiences of our own lives. Our
mind is like a frequently unwinding camera, a wilderness of life images. We only see what we want to take for real. But every scene and truth about life that we refuse to accept is cut out from the film, eventually gets lost and forgotten. This would then remain a mystery. And because life is like a labyrinth, destiny does not lie in our own hands. We have many denials among ourselves and we often tend to look away. For once, we should also understand that our own lives are not the center of the universe; nothing is going to change according to our personal desires. The unreasonable silence of life is a blissful secret always waiting to be unlocked. To find the key, we have to discover our hidden aspirations and embrace the realities we deny in ourselves. What is it that we truly want? Perhaps we need to know about ourselves, more wisdom of the self. I guess the knowledge of the self plays a big role in our lives, mainly everything: dark and light, fear and wholeness. It is definitely larger than anything in us. To know the self is to allow everything, to embrace the soul of who we are, all what we think and feel, all our fear, all our love and other emotions. The self is not a known territory but a wilderness, a minefield with no recognizable size or shape. Too often we forget that. Too often we reach boundaries of what we know about ourselves and lean towards arrogance and vanity. When the self is unrecognized, then conflicts arise. The physical is usually the illusion; it’s the metaphysical that is actually real. The journey of an individual is a lifelong process of constant experience and
attached to the Divine One. Prayer, indeed, as Rupp cited is about this Loving Presence staying with us and never going away. It is about God encouraging and loving us as we attempt to live our lives well. It is about God guiding us and showing us the way in which we are to grow. It was like I fell asleep in the arms of God. This thought changed my guilt into gratitude for a kind and welcoming God who understands my weariness. I’ve changed my mind. Maybe because my ficklemindedness attacks again or perhaps it’s just hard to end up an article and bid good-bye to the one I truly love, my love, because I’ve grown so attached to it. Or perhaps because writing, just like life, doesn’t always have happy endings. Or perhaps because I have learned to love the pub and the work accompanying being one of the staff for almost three years yet I sometimes ended up missing the due dates for some reasons. Or perhaps it is because I made a pact that I will never leave pub, I will hold on to it until I could still keep my promise, my silence, my passion and do my best to keep the relationship I build with my love for writing, which only pub taught me how although I turn out to be my love’s disappointment, as I failed once or twice or many times. I still believe that there is always time for me having second chances. Rest assured I will never leave the pub; it’s where I and my love often meet. To the graduates of batch 2008, never cease to write your journey in life, armed with prayer and passion in order to overcome the many obstacles despite the many scratches that may come along your way. Remember, the stroke of your pen lies in your hands. Congratulations!
Frankness
The Augustinian
5
The University of San Agustin Academic Community congratulates
Cembrano
Sanchez
Germaine Lou Sanchez and Katrina Socorro Cembrano for placing 9th and 10th, respectively, in the December 2007 Integrated Nurse Licensure Examination We are very proud of you.
From an Affiliate To the 2008 graduates of the University of San Agustin: Hail to the 2008 graduates of the University of San Agustin. You have finished your academic courses by the grace of God. You now have your long cherished dream fully realized. Here’s wishing the best for you. To celebrate your victory is good. But you should not stay there. Your future performance is much more important- your accomplishments as a professional and citizen of our country. What will you have done with your lives? I am not going to measure success only in terms of formally recognized excellence or high positions in the government or professional organizations, since such positions or opportunities are few and far between. To me, the only true and valid criteria which need not be known or recognized by others will be: 1. Whether or not you have made others better because you have come into their lives, or your community a better place to live in because you passed through it. 2. Whether or not you did your best in spite of all odds and difficult circumstances whether man-made or the result of unpredictable whims of nature. 3. Whether or not you served your fellowmen not primarily for self gain but in the spirit of love and self-giving. Whether or not you have followed the above criteria, your Alma Mater would probably like to know. So please come back now and then so that we will know how you fared.
Pietros Val Patricio discovery. Every time I look at myself in the mirror every morning, I always ask myself what role I play in this world. Engagement has become quite a struggle these past years. Everything appears senseless. What I’m trying to point out here is that my family, friends and experiences - including the 12 years of my life that I’ve spent in Europe - have greatly contributed to the ungrateful product of who I am today. And I still don’t really know what I want to do with my life. Why can’t we shatter the norms of conservative living and break all the rules knowing that in the end everything will be alright? Why don’t we dare to do things differently and open new opportunities for others to follow? To hell with everything else that follows if we want a happy life! Everything happens by coincidence. We are not accountable for the outcome of everything. We are only responsible for the choices we make. The real journey of an artist is much grater than the arrival. True victory springs out from the sacrifices we make. To understand the true essence of triumph, one must also know the real meaning of failure. Our journey has just begun.
I am extending our sincere congratulations to all of you and our heartfelt felicitations to your parents and relatives and the school administration and faculty who, with their love and concern, emotional and material support and teaching, have helped to make you what you are today. God bless you. By Mrs. Belen Limbaga, an Augustinian affiliate
THE AUGUSTINIAN on the ZTE DEAL SCANDAL We Hunger for Truth. We in The Augustinian urge the Arroyo government to show transparency in the ZTE Deal controversy. We firmly believe the whole truth hasn’t been revealed yet and we demand for a sufficient statement straight from the mouth of President Arroyo herself. We abhor unreasonable “I am sorry” lines and we don’t tolerate silence in situations when it is used to cover the truth. As student journalists willing to waste blood for the common good, we want to know what the real score of the matter is, for ignorance is bliss.
AY MALI! I n t h e 2 nd i s s u e o f T h e Augustinian, Aileah Katleen Tropa, Ms. Intrams 2007, is a First year student of the B.S. Pharmacy program and not B.S. Medical Technology. In the 4th issue of The Augustinian, the JPIA that had participated and won the Uniwide games is the Junior
Philippine Institute of Accountants and not Junior Philippine Institute of Architects. I n t h e 5 th i s s u e o f T h e Augustinian, please be informed that the council of deans is not part of the committee for the redesign of the new graduation regalia. Our sincerest apologies.
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FEATURE
The Augustinian
FEBRUARY 16 - march 31, 2008
Editor: ELSED TOGONON
No to Coal! Go Renewable! By the USA Publications Staff
THE CITY of Iloilo has been divided on the proposal of setting up Western Visayas’ first ever coalfired power plant in the city since its announcement from the city government last year. The ambitious plan of city officials which aims to boost power efficiency and economic growth has been praised and criticized by various sectors of society. Private and non-government organizations have been supporting and opposing the coal-fire proposition through their persuasive campaigns and demonstrations lately. Apparently, both pros and cons have their own facts and figures justifying their claims to the public, thus leaving many concerned citizens confused on the issue. It is a scientific fact, however, that coal is the dirtiest source of energy one can get. The hazardous gases that it emits possess toxic and cancerous chemicals that destroy
the earth’s ozone layer and put our public wellbeing under serious threat. Coal alone has already had many bad environmental records in the past and is still considered to be the world’s largest contributor to global warming and ecological pollution. This issue actually came as a surprise to us now that the world is actively shifting towards cleaner and renewable sources of power considering that in the past, the same project proposal has already been rejected thrice in Western Visayas. The Augustinian believes that it is about high time to state its official stand against the proposition of building a coal-fired power plant in Iloilo City. First of all, the city government has failed to fully address and inform the general public on the circumstances that we will be facing once this coal-fired power plant is built. Our city officials speak positively of practicability, industries
and job opportunities without mentioning the dangerous health and environmental risks that we will be encountering. The negative outcomes and effects of coal-fire were all ignored. No government commission on health, environment and public safety has ever been conducted whatsoever. No scientific research was done at all. No city officials have ever attended any of the private hearings on the coal-fire issue despite invitations from the business sector. Even the February 15 public hearing in the plaza of La Paz was cancelled by the government. Second, the application of coal technology is quite uneconomical and unpractical. The projected rise of businesses in the city would be highly unlikely for investors and tourists would rather avoid spending their money in places where environmental pollution and health hazards abound. Even
laborers and consumers will be badly affected by the diseases and disorders it will cause. Take note that also the agricultural and fishing sector would be damaged by its emissions. Many businesses would eventually close shop. Megaworld Corp. does not even require coal-fire since the electricity needs of its commercial establishments are mostly solargenerated. Lastly, the claims of power shortages in the city due to frequent brownouts are not justifiable. According to official data from distribution and generation facilities, the region’s power sources will be producing a total dependable power supply of 313 megawatts (MW) for this 2008 while the actual coincident peak demand of local power suppliers only lies at 228 MW (with PECO at 83.9 MW). This can only mean that our power infrastructure is not maximized to its full potential possibly caused
by poor service of distribution. Clean coal technology does not even exist at all. It is a big lie since coal already produces poison right from the very moment it is burned. The destructive effects of the proposed coal-fired power plant are far greater than its economic benefits for in the end, everything is interconnected. What will be the use of progress if our own lives would be at risk? Power supply is not meant for capitalist business intentions but a social service intended to serve the common good. Having access to a clean environment is a basic human right. We will eventually become the real losers for we will be suffering the consequences. It is about time to take responsibility in protecting our environment before it eventually invests in our own destruction itself. Let us save the future for our own children. Let us say no to coal! Go renewable!
breathe clean air, enjoy and utilize natural resources according to the principles of sustainable development as well as the right to engage in all activities concerning violations of the said statutory law. R.A. 7394 or the Consumer Act of ’92, on the other hand, states that consumers have the right to a clean and safe environment. They are also obliged to take urgent action whenever this rule would be violated. They also have the right to gain proper knowledge and education about the effects and consequences of the product or service they will be consuming. How could our government executives overlook this law? Whatever has happened to the agreements of the Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit and the Kyoto Protocol, which the Philippines itself has once actively supported? What is the purpose of the UN Environment Program if we would only fully ignore it? Whatever happened to our environmental values? In 1896, the Swedish chemist Svante Arrhenius already identified how much the earth has heated up due to carbon dioxide emissions largely caused by the extensive evaporation of coal mines into the air. But instead of investing in climate policy and fostering
environmental awareness towards ecological conservation, which our society badly needs, what does our city government do instead? This is how our hardworking local government intends to help us solve ecological disasters: The mayor flies on a short trip to Taiwan and engages in a plan of setting up an ambitious yet generally healththreatening and environmentally hazardous coal-fired power plant in Iloilo City’s district of La Paz, a highly destructive source of air pollution and toxic discharge in our environment. See the irony? Coal-fired power plants are not even an economically efficient way of sourcing energy. The increase of the prescribed medications and increase in the hospital visits would only burden our lives would in the future. In the end, we are the ones who will suffer the big loss. Let’s be vigilant, and try to take a second look. We should oppose the setting up of the said plant and challenge the government, encourage all people to convince the state to set up renwable alternatives to power generation other than the oldfashioned coal-fired power plant. Coal is not the only solution to power shortage. It is in the saying “Kung ang balay mo mahigko, gin dugangan mo pa.” Our place, our city, our country, our world, our environment - we are responsible for its orderliness. Let us not give up the good fight and always remember that the ones who are next in line are the most important individuals. They are our future and we are doing this for the next generations to come.
Burning of what we have left:
An Anti-Coal Advocacy By ANGEL MARIE MEDEL and PIETROS VAL PATRICIO
PROTESTERS proudly hang their green streamers all over the city with high hopes of advocacy, “NO TO COAL, GO RENEWABLE!” But many of us remain blank on this issue. What does it really all mean? What do we really need to know about the future of our power supply and environment? All this begins with that small black element that keeps the government, church, private businesses and the society on a rage of debate and complication. We know that the proposed set-up for the coal-fired power plant was brought to our attention in our country many times and now in our own city but still, many of us have chosen to remain silent. Coal is a brownish black, solid combustible rock that contains inorganic components formed by the decomposition, accumulation and compaction of plant materials under geological processes. It has been of much use to our daily lives and other productions. To the proposed project, coal can be used as a major source of energy for our electric companies. They proposed that it could give us the adequate amount of energy we need in our power use. It is also claimed that the substance is abundant and very economical due to its cheap cost. But little do we know that the proposed project of setting up this coal-fired power plant anywhere in our country can endanger our health and can be a major source of air pollution. It can also increase poisonous gas emissions that have been a greatly contributing to the
global warming phenomenon we are currently experiencing. Coal alone, according to scientific researches, contributes to almost 60% of the world’s total air pollution along with diesel gas. It can be of good use for some sectors yet the reality is what we concerned citizens want. Using these coal-fired power plants is dangerous to all of us, both young and old, pregnant or not. Coalfired power plants emit destructive pollutants in our environment such as oxides of sulfur, mainly sulfur dioxide; nitrogen oxides; polynuclear hydrocarbons; total hydrocarbons; solid particulates; carbon monoxide, metals such as mercury and arsenic. The most deadly of these is mercury. Among its hazardous effects could be autism, a brain development disorder that impairs social interaction and communication, and causes restricted and repetitive behavior, all starting before a child even reaches three years of age. Psychosis (if ever it is already severe), dementia, low IQ, dizziness, violent behavior and even mental retardation are some probable effects. If ever we’ll be having these coal plants, then our future could possibly become bleak. So, what’s the big deal about the coal issue? Well, it may be cheap and abundant but take note that it is also the world’s single and largest contributor of carbon gas emissions that has been damaging our ecosystem for over a century now. The social costs of the proposed coal-fired power plant are alarming since its pollutant wastes would badly intoxicate our wellbeing and
further place our natural resources and protected wildlife under threat. The inhaling of sulfur oxide could eventually result to lung dysfunction and other breathing problems. Organic mercury is a reproductive poison that could damage our central nervous system and even lead to mental retardation. Who will be held liable for the hospitalization, medications and possible death of these people in the future? These elements would also badly damage both our agricultural and marine resources at a great extent. Anyone could easily understand the simple calculations of what the causes and effects of environmental pollution could do to us that even an elementary child could easily come up with it. The 20 th century sealevel has roughly risen to about 18 centimeters. How much higher could these figures rise in the near future where technological innovation and energy consumption are rapidly increasing at an unstoppable rate? Having Iloilo as a city below sealevel area as well as many other coastal settlements in the country, we certainly do have a very serious crisis before our hands. Upon reading the anti-coal advocacy of the physician toxicologist Dr. Lynn R. Panganiban, we at The Augustinan also discovered that this move alone completely violates the Philippine Clean Air Act of ‘99, otherwise known as Republic Act No. 8749, which emphasizes the focus of the state on preventing any form of attempt on polluting the atmosphere rather than controlling it. It also stresses out the right of citizens to
FEATURE
FEBRUARY 16 - march 31, 2008
The Augustinian
Editor: ELSED TOGONON
7
An hour with the writer
An Interview with Agustin T. Misola By Dominique Ann Misola
Agustin T. Misola is an Ilonggo author who has written more than 50 books in Hiligaynon, English and Spanish. He is recognized as a leading figure in the literary field of the Philippines, having been awarded in 1991 the Pambansang Alagad ni Balagtas, in 2005 as one of the Outstanding Augustinians of the Century, and the honor of being the lecturer of the Jose Rizal Lecture of the Philippine Center for International PEN, with both events held at the University of San Agustin. His most recent endeavor is a book of poems entitled, “On the Sands of Boracay”. On September 28, the BSN 2-L class on Engl 111: Survey of Philippine Literature, conducted a one hour interview with the writer as a project, with questions that propelled memories and inspirations from Agustin T. Misola. On his first poem The writer’s first poem was entitled “My Queen”, written on
December 1944 when he was still in his first year of high school during the war years. He wrote it as he watched the carabaos on his father’s farm, thinking about a young girl of the farm, no one in particular though, but the “creative image of a woman, but not who she is”. He wrote it with the help of an old English dictionary, making a romantic 12 stanza poem. It was at the ending lines that he discovered how he loved poetry, that it was his forte, “an ambition of a young man”, as he said. Till now, at the age of 80, he still recognizes it as his best poem. On his inspiration “My wife”, he said, as we all smiled. “It is love that drives a man, whether in pain or not.’ On gay writers “We are still creations of God. Gays are creative in the arts, writing, and mostly fashion. It is not about the status of the person but of his mind. Poetry is a creation of God, the creative
talent, too. It needs divine guidance and passion.” Lessons on writing In his own count, he has written 499 poems in Spanish, 490 in English and 1058 in Hiligaynon. His epic poem of 1529 stanzas, “Indi Kami Mag-ampo”, won him the Pambansang Alagad ni Balagtas award. “What is important about writing is not being afraid of criticism.” He tells us of the many rejection letters he had received. “Recognition came very late for me”, as he tells us the sacrifice of silently working on his translation of Rizal’s Mi Ultimo Adios from Spanish to Hiligaynon and Spanish to English. “It is a product of enjoyment and tears, a product of sacrifice and faith”, he said about writing. “There is a season pf writing”, as he talks about the many times he missed writing ideas or lines because he was stuck in the bathroom or in court.
Learning, the fun way:
Highlights of the U-Week Alternative Classes By Paulo Bayabos
It seemed that everybody was curious about how unsexy celebrities turn into eye-catching sexy models in magazine covers. Or maybe they’ve always been amazed with spectacular graphics in movies and TV. Whatever it is, the two rooms in Rada Hall were surely not enough to accommodate the thrilled computer-geeks of our university.
Martial Arts class Dr. Gomez lectures on photo editing
February 14, 2008 – Not an ordinary Valentine’s day for Augustinians; they spent the day roaming around the university campus, having a hard time deciding which among the many interesting classes they would attend. It was such a fun-filled learning experience, courtesy of the Office of Co-curricular Activities together with the USA Sports office and the USA Student Council, once again initiating the 100 Alternative Classes as part of the 2008 USA U-Week celebration. With so many classes and venues to choose from, students and teachers alike seized the opportunity of learning not only from cool, youth-oriented discussions but also useful and relevant skill-enhancing lecturettes and exercises facilitated by expert authorities, some were USA teachers and students themselves. It would take forever to tackle each alternative class one by one;
however, here are some which apparently became a huge hit for the students: Unrequited Love (1 PM, USA Gym) By: Mr. Christian Gregoire Tioco Facilitated by: USA Student Council It wouldn’t be Valentine’s day without a stroke of teenage love and romance for the adoring hearts. Mr. Student Council President was cupid for a day and talked about the familiar instance of having to love somebody without being loved in return. A certified chick flick. Photo Editing using Adobe Photoshop CS3 and Graphics Making using Corel Draw (10 AM, RH 30-31) By: Dr. Edmund Gomez and Mr. Barry Frank Gregore Facilitated by: The ICT Society
Martial Arts Class (10 AM, USA Field) Instructor: Mr. Henry Parreño Facilitated by: Sigma Chi Fraternity Hundreds of students were in battle mode as they lined up to take a bow, pose, punch and kick for a taste of Martial Arts despite the pouring rain. That’s something they don’t do everyday, and now their fists of fury are ready to take on any adversary! Acting 101 ( 1PM, 5th/F Alumni Hall) By: Mr. Edward Divinagracia Facilitated by: USA Little Theater There’s an actor inside each of us, and what better opportunity to unleash this talent than being mentored by the great Edward Divinagracia himself. Participants put on their acting faces and artistic skills as they celebrated the art of acting, soaring unto great heights on the rooftop of the Alumni Hall. Other classes include Ecological Solid Waste Management by the USASC, Learning to Love Music by the MAPEH Circle, Ozone Free Car testing by DENR and USA Eco Populi, Speed Dating by JPAMA, One Philippine Psychology: Unity Amidst Diversity by the Psyche Cell, Philosophical Delivery with Presence by the Societas Philosophorum, Autopsy by the Epsilon Chapter,The Perfect Romance by the USAGIASA, and many more. Mr. Eric Divinagracia is the chairman of the committee on CoCurricular activities, Rev. Victor F. Gonzaga OSA for the USA Sports Office, and the USA Student Council is headed by Mr. Christian Gregoire Tioco.
Misola (left) Dr. Alimen’s class pose with Misola
USA Little Theater stages Babaye By Elsed Togonon
During the 20th century, women themselves in order to give their have finally arisen and zealously family a bright future. Mona Pico, defended their right for equality the coordinator of USA Martin in the patriarchal society. This de Rada Human Rights Desk, thrust towards parity persists in rendered a poem by Magdalena the literary texts written by women Jalandoni titled “Nanay,” while writers and poets, exemplifying Edward Divinagracia, the artistic Helen Cixous’ idea that “women director of the USA Little Theater, should write themselves.” interpreted John Iremil Teodoro’s B y f o s t e r i n g w o m e n ’s “Ang Eroplano,” a poem from his essence in the society through the poetry collection Babaye. performing arts and promoting the Babaye was part of the U.N Millenium Development Goal activities in celebration of the to promote gender equality and National Commission for Culture women empowerment, the USA and the Arts’ 2008 Philippine Arts Little Theater, in February 28 at Festival, with its theme “Ani ng the Museo Iloilo, staged Babaye, a Sining.” Moreover, the show served poetry in motion which showcased as the culminating presentation of the different poems of distinct local the USA Little Theater after their poets, such as Flavio Zaragosa participation in Tanghal! which was Canno, Magdalena Jalandoni, held in Zamboanga City. Joseph Espino, Joi Barrios, John Carlo USALT performs “Pram Tiampong, Dr. Alice Hong Kong wid Lab” Tan-Gonzales and John Iremil Teodoro. The poems which w ere compellingly interpreted by the USA Little Theater, articulated the w o m e n ’s p l i g h t and struggles in the society. The poignant tone, reinforced by the multimedia presentation and the black clothes worn by the actors, may have deeply pierced the audiences’ consciousness as to the real situation USALT renders of the women an opening t o d a y. “ G a h a s a , ” prayer entitled “Inumol,” “Predam “Paghaylo” at Demokrasya,” “Si Pinang at Estong,” portrayed the violence experienced by women in-and-outside of their homes. On the other hand, the poems “Ili-ili sang Binayaan,” “Ang Eroplano,” “Pram Hong Kong Wid Lab,” and “Ang Package,” speak USALT interprets freedom of women’s heroism as “Predam at Demokrasya” OFW’s who sacrifice
8
FEATURE
The Augustinian
FEBRUARY 16 - march 31, 2008
Editor: ELSED TOGONON
A “One” and a “Fifty” for the Sea By Karlo Christopher Cristales
LUCKY NUMBERS The waters hold many secrets. The ebbing habitat that circulates throughout 75% of the Earth’s totality is 80,000 leagues of mystery. It is home to a biodiversity more than a thousand in number. It is a domicile of millions of years of evolution and the seat of the very existence of life. Numericals imply facts of precision, specificity and a pattern that changes geometrically. Numbers defy “how much”; numbers connote “how is”. The one. Fishing, tied with seafood, reflects a low social status for the ancient Greeks, a pastime for the Americans and a way of life for the people of the tropics, including the Filipinos. But whether salted, grilled, fried or stewed, the bounty coming from the majestic underwater ales of Adam is still a little penny’s worth of score. Besides its taste, seafood is widely regarded for its high omega3 content. Omega-3, also found in tomatoes, reduce hormone-like substances called eicosanoids which contribute to arthritis, asthma, stroke and other heart diseases when accumulated in large quantities in the body. Omega-3 also alleviates diabetes, hypertension, migraine, multiple sclerosis, cancer and some kidney diseases. In terms of consumption, Eskimos, Nordics and the Japanese enjoy the healthy diet benefits as evidenced by their reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases and longer life spans. In addition to omega-3, fish oils, which are non-cholesterol sterols, reduces the development of several degenerative diseases such as arthritis, atherosclerosis and vasospasm. Trace vitamins are also abundant in seafood, of which
are vitamins A and D (fish liver oils and crustaceans), calcium (soft bones of small fish), zinc (oysters and crustaceans), iron (oysters and shrimp), potassium (mussels, scallops and clams), iodine and phosphorus (in all species). And to replace the high meat diet which is high in cholesterol and true to all body builders, seafood, in general, contains all essential amino acids (protein building-blocks) which are much highly digestible than red meat proteins. In some culture lifestyle, majority of vegetarians will consume fish based solely upon the fact that they are not factory farmed as land animals are. RDA is not only the case, but religions as well choose seafood meat. Christians and Eastern Orthodox’s fasting involves abstaining from meat, but not necessarily fish meat and other seafood. Muslim and Jewish practices also view meat fish from other animal meats in the same way. Buddhists and Hindus, moreover, completely renounce and abjure meat, not including meat fish. “One” is an identity: singleness, individualism, uniqueness. The “fifty”. The Philippines ranked 11 th among the top fish producing countries in 2003, with the production of 2.63 million tons of fish, crustaceans, mollusks and aqua plants. An archipelago with over 2.2 million kilometers of highly productive seas, the Philippines has vast fishery resources and the most biodiversity marine area in the world. However, all of the country’s main fish species fished are small pelagic (open sea), tuna and other large pelagic fish, de45mersal fish (deep sea) and invertebrates (clams, shrimps, scallops, etc.). The tuna fisheries became the
largest and most valued fishery in the Philippines in the 1970’s and the country became the number one tuna producer in Southeast Asia in the 1980’s. However, as the catch began to decline, Filipino fishing companies began fishing in international waters. The authorities have made real efforts to crack down illegal fishing done by Filipino and foreign fishers (mainly Chinese). Illegal fishing in the Tubbataha Reef National Marine Park, for instance, has been highlighted by global conservation groups in 2007. Problems that are faced by the authorities repeatedly revolve around persistent cyanide fishing, corruption by local officials, and links to serious crimes, which have resulted in a number of murders of those enforcing the law. Research into population trends of various species of seafood is pointing out to a global collapse of seafood species. Such collapse would occur due to pollution and over fishing that are threatening ecosystems. A major international scientific study releases in November 2006
in the journal Science found that about one-third of all fishing stocks worldwide have collapsed to more than 10%, with the report for 2004 of FAO State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture that approximately one-quarter were over exploited (16%), depleted (7%) and recovering from depletion or needed continued rebuilding (1%). And, if current trend continues, all fishing stocks worldwide will collapse within 50 years. “50” is just a half way to complete the whole percentage. What counts. As human population increases, land use increases, more and more wildlife species have smaller spaces to call home. More than half of the Earth’s terrestrial surface has been altered due to human activity, resulting in deforestation, erosion, broken ecosystems and extinction. Wildlife cannot survive outside their habitat for long. The Philippines, Indonesia and the Caribbean are mainly the most widely sought suppliers of over 2 million marine aquarium owners in the world. According to Marine Stewardship
Council (MCS), in partnership with the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and Unilever (a major seafood processor in 1997), sustainable seafood is the answer. Sustainable seafood is from either fished or farmed sources that can maintain or increase production in the future without jeopardizing the ecosystem from which it is acquired. The Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC), in partnership with other government bureaus recently funded for “Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries in Southeast Asia” in which its goals were in line with that of sustainable seafood. Other government moves for sustainable seafood found locally include that of “Get Excel Tilapia Hatcheries” in Sta. Barbara Iloilo (launched last April 25, 2003). The number “one” and “fifty” form a significant association with what counts in the matter of this case. For it will take individuals to contribute half of their share in order to preserve how much of what’s left today be the same amount of how it is for generations to come.
La Salle theater guild stages Teodoro’s play Pub moderator co-authors DE La Salle University-Manila’s Harlequin Theatre Guild staged J.I.E. Teodoro’s Palanca awardwinning full-length play “Unang Ulang ng Mayo” last February 20-22 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ Tanghalang Huseng Batute. This is the first stage production of Teodoro’s first play that won
second prize in the Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature in 1997. A sarswela script, it was set to music by Jeffrey Hernandez and directed by Romualdo Tejada, both senior artists from the Philippine Educational Theater Association (PETA). The stage design is by Joseph Duran who has done designs for PETA and Repertory Philippines.
“Unang Ulan ng Mayo” is a tragic coming-of-age story of a gay boy set in a farming village in Antique. This was written 12 years ago when Teodoro was studying creative writing at DLSU-M. Leading Filipino literary critic Isagani R. Cruz, also a playwright, says that “Unang Ulan ng Mayo” is “an excellent play.” A block-buster hit (full house at every showing), Harlequin Theatre Guild and PETA are planning to stage the play again soon due to requests from theater patrons and enthusiasts who were not able to watch because the tickets were sold out. In a related news, the Kinaraya/Hiligaynon critically-acclaimed indie film When Timawa Meets Delgado that features the poetry of Teodoro will be screened at the Singapore International Film Festival on April 4 to 14, 2008. It is directed by Guimbal-based filmmaker Ray Defante Gibraltar, and was photographed and produced by USA Communication Arts program professor, Oscar Reuben Nava of ON Creative Production. (Fray Luis de Leon Creative Writing Institute)
poetry handbook UNIVERSITY of San Agustin Publications’ moderator J.I.E. Teodoro, together with other established writers in Western Visayas, John Barrios, Melchor Cichon, and Jonathan Jurilla, co-edited the book Bigkas Binalaybay: Kritisismo at Antolohiya published by the University of the Philippines in the Visayas’s Sentro ng Wikang Filipino and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. The book is a collection of the winning entries in UPV’s annual Bigkas Binalaybay contest. It also includes essays on the different traditions of poetry writing in the region. USA Filipino Department’s faculty member Erwin Sustento also contributed his essay “Dayalektikal na Filipino: Wikang Gamit sa Pagakda ng Binalaybay sa Rehiyon.” Teodoro’s essay “Pag-anta sa Matsing para Maka-sing-and-dance Tayo: Isang Praymer sa Pagsulat ng Tula para sa Bigkas Binalaybay” is an excellent instructional guide on how to write poems for the Bigkas Binalaybay contest. Bigkas Binalaybay: Kritisismo at Antolohiya was launched last February 13 in Mang Inasal at
Robinson’s Place Iloilo. National Artist Rio Alma was the guest of honor who in his message said, “Isang napakagandang proyekto ang paglalathala ng [librong ito]. Sa pamamagitan ng mga sanaysay sa aklat na ito ay mahihiwatigan ang pangkalahatang adhika’t ideolohiya ng nabanggit na kilusang pampanitikan na nagsimula bago nagwakas ang ika-20 siglo sa Panay… Pagkatapos malathala ang aklat na ito, isang malaking pagkaligta na hindi ihanay ang ‘binalaybay’ sa mga katutubong sinonino ng ‘tula’ sa mga wika ng Filipinas.” Teodoro holds a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from De La Salle University-Manila where he graduated with high distinction. He is the author of seven books, co-author of three books, and the founding editor of SanAg, San Agustin’s annual literary journal and the only literary journal outside Metro Manila that comes out regularly. Teodoro has five Palanca awards to his name and is declared by Yuhum Newsmagazine as the “King of Kinaray-a Writing.” (Fray Luis de Leon Creative Writing Institute)