The Augustinian, March 2016 (News Fold)

AugustiniAn the

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

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

Volume LXI Number 3 • May 15, 2016

SPECIAL REPORT

NEWS

usA awards personnel for 40 years of service

Who is the nation’s next leader?

Article at Page A3

SPORTS

sports editorial: hemming and hawing Article at Page A8

Article at Page A6

‘buildinG beyond borders’ f I Ve - STOR eY C hUSUeY CeNTeR TO CATeR STUDeNTS’ SKILLS WI Th S TATe - O f - The - ART fACIL ITIe S

by Wilkienson c. muro And rochelle mAe m. muzones

the five-storey University of san agustin (Usa) dr.

Henry o. chusuey international center named after its donor, alumnus dr. Henry chusuey, is expected to be operational in december 2016 and is viewed by the school administration as a means to build topnotch culinary and touristic proficiencies beyond borders.

usa pub photo / clyde allen e. sollesta

ACCORDING to Presidential Chief of Staff Jigger Latoza, the Center will serve as a training hub for the U n i v e r s i t y ’s Bachelor of Science in hotel and Restaurant Management (BS hRM) and Bachelor of Science in Tourism Management (BS TM) students.

“The Center CHUSUEY will let our students apply and experience the theory on how to run an actual fine dining restaurant, wherein their products in the kitchen will be served to the public, can relate with customers, and enjoy the

facilities which are state-of-theart,” Latoza said.

The Center is likewise the University’s strategic response to the challenge of addressing the mismatch between the education of the youth and the needs of the businesses and industries.

C h u s u e y, a businessmanphilanthropist, told The Augustinian that “it is our hope that through this Center, students shall have competitive worldclass education, and that USA graduates shall be wellequipped with knowledge, BORDERS

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CROSSING FRONTIERS. Another measure undertaken by the university of san agustin in offering excellent education for the common good is the building of the Dr. henry o. Chusuey International Center. Chusuey, together with the usa administrators, proudly unveiled the site plan during the groundbreaking ceremony held last November 12, 2015 in front of then pelota Court. (usa pub photo / clyde allen e. sollesta)

PAASCU reaccredits CAS Level II status

Pub alumna ranks 6th in Pharma Board

by jessA mAdeleine P. GAnGe And Aimee AndreA d. GAje

The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) maintained its accredited Level II status after the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, College and Universities (PAASCU) revisited the College last December 2015.

In an interview with The Augustinian, Prof. Regina Aileen Mae Vergara, dean of CAS, admitted that the preparation for the said visit was a tough one.

Vergara stated that there was a need to comply with all the previous PAASCU recommendations and on top of that, the College needed ONTO GREATER HEIGHTS. Rada Hall - Formerly known as the Liberal Arts (LA) building which currently houses the students of the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) on the second and third floor. (usa pub photo / clyde allen e. sollesta)

USA offers four academic strands for Senior High

by Frennie m. TAbAbA

TAKE TEN, ADD TWO. This infographic shows the K-12 features that contains a curriculum of 12 years of education prior to tertiary level, a strong foundation believed to help raise more holistically developed Filipinos. (usa pub INfoGRaphIC / stepHanie Kay l. UrQUiola)

The University of San Agustin (USA) officially opened admission from february to March 2016 to Grade 11 (Senior high School) students in four academic tracks of the K-12 program for academic year 2016-2017.

Accountancy, Business and Management (ABM), humanities and Social Science (hUMSS), Science, Technology, engineering and Mathematics

(STeM), and General Academic (GA) strands were offered by the University.

“As of March 29, there are 535 pre-enrolled Grade 11 students and nine of them were officially enrolled, and majority of the pre-enrolled students are from STEM strand,” Sofia Cosette Monteblanco, associate vice president for Academic Affairs, said in an interview with The Augustinian. estimated by the University,

ONe of the University of San Agustin (USA) Publications editors-in-chief for academic year 2014-2015 earned the sixth spot in the January 2016 Pharmacy Board examination.

With a score of 91.77 percent, Joyce Gem C. Cañete was the lone Visayan topnotcher in the said licensure examination conducted by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).

Cañete told The Au g u s t i n i a n that her preparation for the said examination CAÑETE started when she was a first year student and she also shared that two months after her graduation, she conditioned herself to review her past lessons and tried to learn new things beyond the scope of her degree.

“I didn’t study all the time. I studied only the auGustINIaN yeaRbooK 2014 photo

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by Frennie m. TAbAbA

when I felt like it because I didn’t want to force myself, especially when I’m not in the mood. The key to effective studying is to enjoy it,” Cañete said.

Cañete is the 41st Pharmacists’ board examination topnotcher produced by the University, Nancy C. Capunong, secretary of College of Pharmacy and Medical Technology (CPMT) Dean Zesil Gay e. Gelle, revealed.

Cañete was a recipient of the Philippine Pharmacists’ Association Award during her college years and according to one of her teachers, Mary Anne.

T. Corpus, she was a top student who juggled the demands of her Pharmacy degree and her USA Publications duties.

Cañete stated, “I found out that both the teachers and the students play an PUB ALUMNA Page A2

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

IN SOCIAL MEDIA

f Usa publications - official page t @USA_Pub Y USA Publications

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News

Augustinian the

Binder, member of Ayala Young Leaders Congress

Volume LXI Number 3 • May 15, 2016

USA Pub bags group, individual COPRE awards

by Armie Therese C. Penuela and Rochelle Mae M. MuzoneS

Together with the 81 participants all over the country, Kelly Binder of the College of Management and Accountancy (CMA) was qualified to attend the Ayala Young Leaders Congress (AYLC) at Lima Park Hotel, Malvar, Batangas, February 8-13.

From 700 nominees, the top 150 participants were sent to Manila for an interview with the top executives of the Ayala Corporation and was trimmed to 81 official participants to the said congress.

“The screening was really tough. It was mostly essays and covered personal data, involvements in organizations, positive impact in the community, and awards and recognitions in both high school and college,” said Binder, who is the team captain of CMA’s debating team and also part of University’s debate team.

The said youth congress aims to boost students’ confidence, hone their leadership skills and enable them to become faithful stewards of their respective communities and the country as a whole.

When asked about her advocacy, the Editor-in-Chief of The Ledger, official publication of CMA, shared, “I personally chose addressing student prostitution as my advocacy. I know it’s a heavy issue to discuss but it exists and regardless if it’s just one student or many of them [I am convinced there are] we still need to take action.”

Moreover, aside from talks, outdoor activities and workshops, the delegates were also asked to determine one problem in the community, which they want to address if given the proper resources.

The AYLC is held annually and participated by the most promising students of different colleges and universities nationwide.

CAS regains debate championship cup

by Nicole Ailice F. Serisola and Wilkienson C. Muro

ONE CUP RULES IT ALL. The College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Debate Team revel in its victory as this year’s champion of the Saint Augustine’s Cup Interdepartmental Debate Series. (usa pub photo / clyde allen e. sollesta)

After losing the championship title against the College of Management and Accountancy (CMA) last year, the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) was reinstated as the champion of this year’s Saint Augustine’s Cup Inter-departmental Debate Series, February 12.

With the proposition, “Resolved that the Philippines adopt a two-child policy,” the CAS emerged victorious over the College of Nursing (CN).

“The debate match was a rollercoaster ride. We had some close calls and there were times that we wanted to give up. But seeing the confidence and trust that our coach and alumni gave us fueled our desire to win and take the cup back,” Marie Julienne Caballete, BS Foreign Service student of CAS, told the The Augustinian.

Caballete, who is also a Senior Writer of The Augustinian, was awarded Best Speaker and Best Debater of the Debate Cup. “Honestly, until now I am in a state of shock. All I wanted is for our team to win but being awarded as the best speaker and best debater was definitely a huge bonus. It was a great advance graduation gift,” said Caballete.

On the other hand, there were preliminary rounds held at the outside court of the University’s Gymnasium before the championship battle and the first round was between CAS and the College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA), then against the College of Education (COE).

“Debate gave me the confidence I never thought I had. When debating, I become a different person, a person who is aware of what she says and a person who is there to defend their proposition no matter what,” Caballete told The Augustinian.

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to address other identified deficiencies that required necessary and immediate actions to ensure compliance with the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Memoranda.

Vergara mentioned that the major concerns that were responded to accordingly prior to the visit were the following: the need of each academic program to have a program head or coordinator

with at least a master’s degree in the same field, faculty alignment, and student and faculty research.

The College is aiming for a clean slate on the next PAASCU visit in order to regain its former status, Level III, and Vergara said that they are already starting to gather necessary documents in order to prepare for the next visit on 2018.

“We should gather proof, realign faculty qualifications, gather evidences of student

BRINGING HOME THE BACON. The 87-year old publication of Western Visayas’ first university with its current staff pose with their trophies and awards for this year’s College Press Conference (COPRE) held at Kapis Mansions, Roxas City, Capiz on November 26 - 27, 2015. (usa pub photo / princess dela torre)

by Armie Therese c. Penuela

The University of San Agustin (USA) Publications, the official student press corps of the University, romped with 10 group awards in the College

Press Conference (COPRE) held at Kapis Mansion, Roxas City, Capiz, November 26-27, 2015.

The Augustinian newspaper bagged the following awards: 1st Place for

Best Editorial Page, 3rd Place for Best News Page, 5th Place for Best Feature Page, 1st Place for Best Newspaper Layout and 3rd Place for Best Newspaper.

“I am truly proud of all the staffers. I know that this is

all part of the learning process, and will help us all, especially the new staff members, to grow as both journalists and as people. We are proud to be part of the legacy that is the USA Publications.” Stephanie Kay L. Urquiola, editor-in-chief, shared.

The Publications’ official magazine, The Augustinian Mirror, also won 3rd Place for Best Magazine Layout and 4th Place for both Best Magazine Cover Design and Best Magazine.

In addition to the group awards, Wilkienson C. Muro ranked third for Copy Reading - English category and John Elmer J. Balan placed first in Photojournalism English Category.

“I felt honoured to be recognized as a third placer.

The blessing there is not the winning of the title but the privilege itself that of being a part of such a competition,” shared Muro.

Dingding ni Gusting wall newspaper and The Augustinian newsletter were hailed as the third and fourth best in their respective categories.

CoE graduate hailed as LET topnotcher by marie julienne V. caballete

Another Augustinian graduate from the College of Education (CoE) was among the Top 10 passers in the September 2015 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET) Elementary Level given in Hong Kong and 26 testing centers all over the Philippines.

With a rating of 84.80 percent, BEED Major in Special Education graduate Ivy Joy G. Ganancial of the University of San Agustin, ranked tenth among the 68,442 examinees.

In an interview with The

Augustinian, Ganancial shared that she was shocked when she learned of the results.

“At the day of the release of the LET results, my phone rang, and an unknown number appeared. I have no idea who was calling. I answered the phone call anyway, turns out it was Dr. Carl E. Balita bearing the news that I did not only pass the exams but I made it to the Top 10,” Ganancial shared.

59 Augustinian graduates including Ganancial earned the University a rating of 76.62 percent for the elementary level while 65 graduates passed the LET secondary level, posting

a 65 percent rate for the University.

“Just believe that you can do it and in God that He will help and guide you in reaching your dreams. If others can do it, so can you. Having honours is not the only basis for your success but also your character,” Ganancial imparted when asked if she has any advice for her fellow Augustinians.

Ganancial was also a consistent dean’s lister and at the same time, a working student assigned at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) when she was in college.

A total of 21,461 out

GANANCIAL

of 68,442 examinees (31.36 percent) in the Elementary Level, and 34,010 out of 81,463 examinees (41.75 percent) in the Secondary Level passed the LET.

The Pharmakeia named ‘Most Outstanding Publication’

by Rj JUnsay

wITH an edge of 63 points over The Tech Record, the College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA)’s official publication, The Pharmakeia gained the title as the ‘Most Outstanding

Publication’ during the 8th SanAg Campus Press Awards held at the Nursing Review Center B, February 27.

The Tech Record and the The Artian of College of Arts and Sciences were hailed as the first and second runners-up, respectively.

“We felt delighted that our hard work paid off and successfully returned the title back to CPMT. Those sleepless nights and sacrifices in order to publish the magazine on time was all worth it,” said Kenny Magbanua, editor-in-chief of The Pharmakeia.

CREAM OF THE CROP. Writers of The Pharmakeia strike a pose with the Moderator and Editor-in-Chief of the USA Publications after the SanAg Campus Press Awards ceremony. (USA PUB Photo / CLYDE ALLEN E. SOLLESTA)

performances, and if these are well-documented, as having a clean slate for Level III is important if we want to regain our autonomous status,” Vergara added.

Morever, Armia Camille Domingo, a peer facilitator of the CAS Guidance Services, said, “The College of Arts and

Sciences have great academic programs and teachers and we remain positive that the College will reach greater heights.”

The College of Education (COE), located in the same building as CAS (Rada Hall), will also be revisited by the PAASCU for reaccreditation.

PUB ALUMNA From A1

important role in the success of the board exam. The University taught me fundamental principles, introduced me to majority of the topics, gave me an opportunity to grow, and developed my skills as a Publications editor. As it should

Moreover, The Tech Record was awarded with the Best Publication entry accumulating 190 points against The Pharmakeia with 119 points while the latter gained the highest number of points in the individual-on-thespot contests.

“This is the first time that our publication joined this competition after five years. We are happy that TTR is back on its track,” said Reyze Gadot, editor-in-chief of The Tech Record.

The Tech Record garnered first place in all categories except in Best Literary Page which was awarded to the The Artian.

“SanAg Campus Press serves as one of the training grounds of all aspiring young journalists here in our University,” said Frennie M. Tababa, Associate Editor of the USA Publications.

The Pharmakeia bested the CEA, the College of Nursing (CN) and CAS in the said campus press. be, the University has been my training ground.”

“Nothing is stronger than your willpower and perseverance. I remember saying to myself, ‘I won’t let this 600-item exam delay my dreams. I am going to be a pharmacist and a pharmacist I am now,” Cañete remarked.

Augustinian

Navarro, Teves receive ‘Longest Personnel Service Award’

By Jecel t. Buenavides and PHILIP ROBERT c. Alaban

Dr. Ma. Lina Navarro and Dr. Lillia S. Teves received the “Longest Personnel Service Award” during the University personnel recognition program held at the Crown Ballroom, Punta Villa Resort, February 27.

Navarro and Teves have served the University for 40 years now.

“The purpose of this award is to give recognition to our employees who have stayed long in the University and in appreciation of their dedicated service to the education of the Filipino youth, particularly, the Augustinian students,” Mrs. Maribuen Salmorin, Supervisor of the Human Resource Management Office, said.

The program also recognized the awardees who have been serving the University for 15, 25 and 35 years.

“Many are called but few are chosen, and I am blessed and thankful that I get to be one of the few given the chance to serve my Augustinian community especially the students,” Dr. Navarro said.

The administration has been giving the Longest Personnel Service Award since

PILLARS OF EDUCATION. Navarro and Teves receive the ‘Longest Personnel Service Award’ as recognition of the University for their 40 years of service as awarded by the Augustinian friars. (photo courtesy of / Jigger s. Latoza)

the year 1980 in recognition for the faculty’s tenure.

“My 40 years of service in the University of San Agustin is seasoned with lots

of opportunities, trials and challenges which made my journey in life more colorful and interesting,” Teves expressed.

Aside from awarding the longest personnel service award, the program also gave a recognition of service for the retirees of the University.

MLS entry tops RICE research contest

by Armie Therese C. Penuela

Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) students of the University emerged as champions in the student research category of the Regional Invention Contest and Exhibit (RICE) 2015 held at SM City Iloilo Event Center, September 15-17.

The winning team was composed of Pamela Michelle Reyes, Maria Erika Gabrielle Sumayo, Fledge Supapo, Katrina April Taclas, Mary Faith Talanas, John Vancouver Timon, Alfredo Valencia Jr., and Joseph Villareal with their advisers, the Dean of the College of Pharmacy and Medical Technology (CPMT) Zesil Gay E. Gelle and Mr. Jose Perez Jr. According to them, their research entitled “Potato Peel Agar as a Potential SENIOR HIGH From A1

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skills and attitudes required by tourism and travel industry.”

In a statement to Iloilo Metropolitan Times, Dr. Rex Casiple of the Commission on Higher Education acknowledged the existence of the said job-skill mismatch and told the local newspaper that “job-skill mismatch remains a problem and that thousands of jobs are available in Western Visayas, but many of our graduates are still unemployed

Selective Culture Medium for Staphylococcus aureus” was the smallest and the simplest among all the inventions in the exhibit.

When asked about their edge over the other participants, Supapo said, “Our edge was being unique and being practical. Who would have thought that a potato peel that has become an agar, which is a selective culture medium, can grow bacteria? We think that uniqueness was our edge during the RICE.” Supapo added, “Our success is not possible without the help of our research advisers and consultant. Their recommendations, suggestions and pieces of advice have greatly contributed to the overwhelming success of our study. Our countless trial and error has paid off with the aid of their decisions.”

In addition, they also

BRAINSTORM. The Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) students gather ideas from a mentor to improve their entry for the Regional Invention Contest and Exhibit (RICE) 2015. (photo COURTESY OF / PAMELA MICHELLE REYES)

be upgraded and used and ample time for the teachers to be trained to help in giving excellent education,” Monteblanco added.

According to Fr. Frederick C. Comendador, O.S.A., University President, this K-12 program is a tsunami that affected the University and had positive and negative effects, including educational thrusts and loss of first year students

and revenue, respectively.

“As of this academic year, there are 3,000 first year students and it’s a great loss for the University if the recorded enrollees is only 535 and there will be a realignment in the non-teaching staffs and the University will have a leaner organizational structure,” Monteblanco stated.

Headed by the Philanthropic, External and

Alumni Relations (PEAR) office, directed by Fr. Williener Jack E. Luna, O.S.A., an open house was conducted during the celebration of University Week to advertise the University and a discount coupon of Php 500.00 will be given to students who will be officially enrolled on or before April 18.

Enrollment period is still ongoing up to May 20 and classes will start on June 13, 2016.

because they don’t have the skills for them to immediately land a job.”

Furthermore, the Center will help bridge the educational and financial gaps of the University, especially that it is now offering the Senior High School. “It will help generate income for the University and for the maintenance of the Center and here, the students will be able to develop their skills in managing a restaurant, selling the products and relating to customers,” Latoza

said.

for the students coming from provinces and the growing number of foreign students, fifth floor to have 18 hotel rooms, and a coffee shop.

On the other hand, this estimated Php 68M building project came upon after the signing of memorandum of agreement with Dr. Chusuey and Rev. Fr. Frederick C. Comendador, OSA, USA president, and now the one spearheading the project.

“This building more profoundly symbolizes the

mentioned their difficulty in finding for a working area and some of their needed reagents and the limited time given to them during the duration of the research.

“This research will be beneficial to MLS students

Subsequently, the Center will be constructed following the masterplan of the University. It is to have the ground floor leased out to restaurants and other enterprises, second floor to house a state-of-the-art kitchen where the students will have their training in coffee shops and fine dining restaurants; third floor to have the function, conference, seminar training rooms, fourth floor to have 18 air-conditioned dormitories

and professionals in bacterial culture and identification and in reducing waste products of potato peelings in the locality,” Supapo shared.

The team will represent the Western Visayas in the national convention on July this year.

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Theology dep’t joins IEC by armie therese c. penuela

To promote awareness to the social dimension of the Eucharist, the USA Theology Department united with the Catholic community during the 51st International Eucharistic Congress (IEC) held at Cebu City, January 24-31 This year’s congress was spearheaded by Archbishop Piero Marini and was presided

by Archbishop Jose S. Palma and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP).

“It was an occasion for the discovery of my vocation as the Eucharistic Servant of Yahweh and faculty of the University.

The Lord of the Table called me once again to renew my enthusiasm and commitment to be Bread, broken and shared.

This have deepened in me my love for the Lord,” shared Sr. Laarni Pecolera, MSLT. With the theme “Christ in you, our hope of glory,” thousands of participants,including members of the USA Theology Department, joined various activities of the congress which included catechetical sessions,

celebration of the Word, prayer gatherings, plenary assemblies, Table Fellowship, Eucharistic Procession, cultural programs and pilgrimage while millions of devotees attended the opening and closing masses.

Sr. Pecolera urges fellow Augustinians and added, “in every Eucharistic celebration Assembly, the Lord of the Table is calling us to meet Him in the person of the priest. In every Mass, He eagerly desires to meet us personally in fellowship and devotion with Him. Fellow Augustinians, you too will contribute to the transformation of our community into a Eucharistic community. Thus our vision, One Mind, One Heart, One San Agustin will come to its realization.”

Nearly 80 years after the first (IEC) was held here in the Philippines, the Catholic Church extends the worship of the Blessed Sacrament outside the mass itself and permeates the whole of people’s personal and social life.

Theology teachers who participated in the Congress represented not just the name of the University, but as well as every member of the Augustinian community.

EIC, Pub Senior earn IWAG

by Erika Danielle M. Pepito

Staying true to its mission as the responsive, developmental and research-based student publication of Western Visayas’s first university, the USA Publications produced two IWAG awardees for this year in the persons of editor-in-chief Stephanie Kay L. Urquiola and senior writer Resty John L. Palete, both acquiring the Presidential Medals.

The Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Region VI annually confers the IWAG award, which was established in 1977, to outstanding campus journalists who promoted developmental communication and thrusts of the government.

“This award is the hallmark of all the writing awards PIA is giving for campus paper writers,” said PIA – 6 Director Atty.

Janet Mesa.

“It feels great, and it’s a form of validation for me, that our four years in the pub molded us to be great journalists and contributors to society,” shared Urquiola, a BS Psychology graduate, on winning the IWAG award. “It’s not enough to just be a writer; you have to be versatile. You have to be a good student, an asset to the community, and an active participant in events that really contribute to the society.”

After the evaluation of their published articles and relevance to developmental thrusts, academic and scholastic achievements, communication work, experience and training, and involvement in school and community activities, Urquiola and Palete carved their names to the roster of winners for the award this 2016 together with 40 others, representing 32 schools and 37 publications from the whole region.

Palete, an AB Political Science graduate, recounted the feeling as something that is “unexpected and too far from reality.” Both awardees credit how the workload for the school year did not hinder their achievements. “It was doing something I enjoyed doing and did not regret giving much effort.”

Although the road to IWAG was no easy feat, Urquiola said that “having a great state of mind is what definitely helped.

There were trials and it was never easy, but never using excuses to do my responsibilities was definitely an important factor.”

For Palete, he thought that “believing in yourself and letting others inspire you can help you in achieving your goals. Do not conclude that you can’t do much than what you are now.”

Both Urquiola and Palete are also cited for their Excellence in Journalism and their contributions to the University Publications.

(FILE photos / john elmer j. balan)

there are 15 classrooms in Aguirre Hall to be used with 45 students per section, and the library for Senior High School students will have books that have been selectively purchased from Singapore.

“The pre-enrollment is for the University to be prepared on how many rooms will be made available, facilities to

News

the

Volume LXI Number 3 • May 15, 2016

URQUIOLA

strong university alumni relations where the University is able to tap into the generosity of its successful alumni to help

PALETE

institutional projects. It is a symbol of our curriculum in the University being relevant to the society,” Latoza said.

Opinion Augustinian the

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

How Ready Are We?

How ready are we when natural environment crisis strikes our nation’s borders?

How ready are we when Mother Nature refuses to cooperate with us? The sad truth is we aren’t always ready enough.

Wild fires have become more prevalent the last few weeks and a lot of environmentally protected areas were burned down due to extreme heat. Though it is still too early to determine if this was the worst El Niño to have ravaged the countryside, it is admittedly one of the hottest dry spells we have encountered to date. How ready were we for this dry spell crisis?

To date, El Niño’s damage of the agriculture industry was estimated to be at least four billion pesos, according to the Department of Agriculture (DA) since last February with the corn sector of the industry suffering the largest loss of produce estimated to be at least 195, 000 metric tons (MT) in weight valued to at least 2.5 billion pesos, followed by rice suffering a loss of produce estimated to be at least 95,000 MT in weight valued to at least 1.6 billion pesos. Highvalue produces and livestock, meanwhile, reported a loss of at least 20 million in expenses and 11 thousand worth of damage, respectively as reported by DA. Though it has been

indomitable

Fkevin jerrol c. erebaren, BS psych ‘16

kevinerebaren@yahoo.com

“The Filipino people suffered a devastating blow to our agricultural industry output and yielded unsatisfactory results during the crisis.

reported that the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said the 2015-2016 El Niño has passed but its effects will linger for months and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) confirms that the latest forecasts suggest that the El Niño phenomenon, though the effects has already been experienced, is expected to gradually weaken through March-April-May and return to neutral condition in the MayJune-July period. We were caught with our pants down and were a little ill equipped to handle the aftermath of the

events. The Filipino people suffered a devastating blow to our agricultural industry output and yielded unsatisfactory results during the crisis.

WMO has also reported that the world has just beheld one of the most potent ever El Niño events, which caused dangerous weather in countries on all continents and helped fuel recorded worldwide heat the last year. While we and other neighboring countries experience severe dry spells and droughts, excessive rainfall has seemingly drowned parts of the world with their torrential downpour. Parts of South America and East Africa are still

recovering from torrential rains and flooding. The economic and human toll from drought is becoming increasingly apparent in the south and the Horn of Africa, Central America and a number of other regions. As it is a cycle of events, it is quite apparent that since the heat will gradually lessen in our side of the world, we should expect the gradual downpour of rain to follow. We weren’t ready when the dry spell hit the country; how ready are we when the eventual deluge eventually comes?

How ready are we?

In all honesty, barely. Past experiences taught us that we Filipinos are not that adaptable to environmental tragedies.

Several natural events battered our shores and our lands, taking away precious lives and humongous property damages at the same time but do we actually learn from it? It is not because we are dumb or that we are obstinate, it is because we are constantly waiting for someone else to solve the problem for us. With the coming elections, this impending deluge takes a backseat to make way for “politics” and the continuous pursuit of their goals within the political rat race. We are blinded by the belief that the world is going to fix itself, I just hope that the truth dawns on all of us before it’s too late.

An Inconvenient Truth Environmental groups pressed for solution on climate change after the government declared the highest alert level over an epidemic of coral bleaching in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. A shocking 95 percent of the reefs are now severely bleached, leaving the underwater wonder in critical condition. Experts from James Cook University, who recently conducted an aerial assessment of the Great Barrier Reefs, said they ‘witnessed a sight underwater that no marine biologist, and no person with a love and appreciation for the natural world for that matter, wants to see’.

Dr Jodie Rummer, from the ARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, said the damage to the reefs is so ‘catastrophic’, it’s affecting the wildlife who live inside and nearby. Bleaching occurs when abnormal environmental conditions, such as warmer sea temperatures, cause corals to expel tiny photosynthetic algae, draining them of their color.

Corals can recover if the water temperature drops and the algae are able to recolonize them.

This may just be nature’s last warning calls; as Filipinos, we are very aware of the threats we have faced from the side effects of climate change.

Typhoon ‘Yolanda’, Typhoon ‘Milenyo’, Typhoon ‘Frank’ are perfect examples of the dangers our country is facing.

Temperatures are at an all-time high with the weather changing several times a day. So far, the only campaign we’ve seen are the ones from candidates promising a better future— if this keeps up, our future may not even exist.

Disasters in Philippine cities are usually brought about by several issues at once, not

MELIORISM

Stephanie kay l. urquiola, bs psych ‘16

s_urquiola@yahoo.com

“While most platforms focus on economic growth, this does not necessarily result in climate resilience; thus, as our country continues to grow in infrastructure and population, so will the impacts of future disasters. ” just one. While most platforms focus on economic growth, this does not necessarily result in climate resilience; thus, as our country continues to grow in infrastructure and population, so will the impacts of future disasters.

Ultimately, researchers say that the determining factor for reefs would be human efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. If the world could limit warming to 1.5oC above normal, the toughest target outlined by the recent Paris climate agreement, then reefs could stand a chance.

While climate change is the responsibility of every human being, there is no getting away from the fact that this is also a political problem.

The Aquino administration recently coped to the said Paris climate agreement committing to aggressive action towards reversing the effects of climate

change; if the government wanted to do something substantial with the said agreement, coal plants should be shut down immediately as coal plants produce 60 million metric tons of carbon dioxide per year.

You’d think that a problem as urgent as this would automatically be our country’s number one priority but so far, political candidates barely have environmental platforms.

The typical Pinoy attitude of ignoring it until it goes away is in full swing, and with a new administration on the way, there are no guarantees of any future government plans to help with our battle against a dying earth.

Which is why this is one of our country’s most pressing issues due to our country being one of the most vulnerable to climate change, commitments must not be made lightly.

Not every city and country

face the same problem but we are all trying to fight the same end result: the destruction of our home. Everyone is trying to do their part to ‘save the earth’ as they say, but rarely do longterm solutions appear. Climate change is a social, political, and economic problem that affects everyone; it requires nothing less than everyone working together and doing their part-- advocating political reforms, developing sustainable and eco-friendly livelihoods, and environmental protection.

Addressing the issues individually will strengthen the work that people are already doing to reduce the risks of climate disasters.

Climate resilience is a big challenge for the Philippines.

The good news is that working on it can help address issues that are important for the whole country. It’s something that all Filipinos should have a voice in, and that all Filipinos have a stake in.

To quote Al Gore in his famous documentary entitled ‘An Inconvenient Truth’, making mistakes in generations past would have consequences that we could overcome, unfortunately, we don’t have the luxury anymore. His words have never rung more true; the urgency to do something about a situation before it blows up in our face.

Another thing stated in the documentary is that this is a moral issue that requires us to seize the problem; to rise above everything and to secure our future. All of the recent news regarding earthquakes, wildfires, and other natural disasters is a realization that it might just be too late to find a solution and actually work on it; and unfortunately, that’s an inconvenient truth.

editorial

Prove Us Wrong Filipinos now hold in their hands the responsibility to decide the future of the country. 12 decades ago, we were in a Revolution aginst Spain; six decades ago, we were granted Independence; three decades ago, we survived EDSA. Filipinos have overcome the greatest of ordeals, yet majority of the people still wallow in poverty.

In reality, there are five key areas, in which if improved, that would make our country a great one and these are: economic stability and independence, better quality education, a stronger military presence and force, a better government system and a just society.

First, economic stability and independence is a critical issue for the country. It is a given fact that most Filipino’s seek out their fortunes and prosperity beyond our country’s shores. Since our country depends heavily on foreign markets in acquiring most products while at the same time, foreign nations are expected to employ majority of our enormous but largely underemployed workforce. The 42 million Filipino work force are either unemployed, underemployed, works at no less than 40 hours a week, and the rest resort to incomes provided by not-so-legal job descriptions. Despite being the host to abundant natural resources, and now, an enormous supply of skilled laborers, our society as a whole lacks the mutual aptitude to monopolize and take advantage of this enormous number of people into any sort of valuable economic output of consequence. We have the brains and the manpower needed to push this through, all it needs now is a leader capable enough to see it through.

The second most important issue after that is quality education. It

Augustinian the

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

managing editor

associate editors

literary editors

WALLNEWS Editor art director photography editor circulation manager senior writers

staff writers

artists

photojournalists

apprentice writers

moderatOR

Stephanie Kay L. Urquiola Kevin Jerrol C. Erebaren Edcel B. Fajutag

Erika Danielle M. Pepito Frennie M. Tababa

Gizelle Anne D. Villa Edcel B. Fajutag Frennie M. Tababa Anne Catherine D. Malazarte Mara Elaiza A. Flores Jordan C. Galache Resty John L. Palete Gizelle Anne D. Villa Marie Julienne V. Caballete RJ Junsay Wilkienson C. Muro Armie Therese C. Penuela Jecel T. Buenavides Rochelle Mae M. Muzones Aimee Andrea D. Gaje Daryl S. Selerio Herod A. Montiel Ronnyl D. Bulahan Mary Johsyen E. Pabalinas John Elmer J. Balan Clyde Allen E. Sollesta Nicole Ailice F. Serisola Andrea Nicole C. Parce Melky B. Arboleda Jessa Madeleine P. Gange Philip Robert C. Alaban May Anne T. Jaro

A4-A5 Volume LXI Number 3 • May 15, 2016

Road Under-VOTE-track-tion

takes good quality education to train military personnel and servicemen.

It also takes good quality education for literate and competent individuals to take charge and establish an efficient government system. The problem with the current constitution wasn’t brought about by poorly written laws but rather by incompetent personnel. As such, if this kind of government is established under competent leadership, abuses of power would be less frequent since educated citizens serve as effective watchdogs to prevent governmental abuse. finally let us take look at the possible candidates themselves. We have already gleamed the most important areas that our future leaders should seriously consider. Since economy is a major issue in our country, should we rely on individuals who are not capable enough for the responsibility as the “chief economist” of the state? One admitted that he is not intellectually inclined with economic matters and if ever he gets voted, all economic decisions would fall upon his adviser; one is simply riding curtails off his family name and predecessor while one is viewed by the public as a neophyte. These alone puts into question their ability to make good economic decisions for the country. While the two other candidates are both capable economists, the former is laden with corruption cases which puts his integrity on the line while the latter is a sick individual who may or may not be able to finish holding office.

Individually, every candidate brings something to the table. They have their strengths and their capabilities. This is not meant to critic the candidates, their platforms or their characters, this is a challenge.

A challenge to build a governance system that provides for all of its citizens— without exception. A challenge to correct the existing pattern of inequality in social and economic development that prevents proper livelihood among filipinos. It is a challenge to rebuild the broken trust of the filipino people and to dispel the notion that all politicians want to do is steal— this election is a challenge to prove us wrong. Politicians lie all the time. Prove us wrong. Promises are just words riddled with false hope. Prove us wrong. This country will never be great again. Prove us wrong.

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NEWSPAPER DESIgN

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TIRIK na tirik ang araw at sakam ko ang nakasusulasok na alikabok at usok sa paligid. Ilang minuto na lang at mahuhuli na ako sa aking klase, ngunit pansin ko ay hindi pa rin umuusad ang dyip na aking sinasakyan; at sa aking pagtanaw sa aming kinaroroonan ay dumungaw ang nakabarikadang kalsadang dati’y hindi rin naman lubak, ngunit sa ngayo’y sira na at ipinapagawa. Tila banas at inis na lamang ang tangi kong naramdaman sa mga pagkakataong iyon. Wala na akong nagawa -- bumaba, at nilakad na lamang ang destinasyon patungo sa eskwelahan.

Bago pa man dumating ang araw ng eleksiyon ngayong taon ay pansin ang mga sunodsunod na pagpapasagawa ng mga kalsada sa iilang sulok ng siyudad ng Iloilo, maging sa mga bayan-bayan at maliliit na purok ng mga barangay. Ngunit, ang katanungan: ito ba’y sadyang nakatakdang gawin sa mga panahong ito, o dahil nga lang ba sa katotohanang papalapit na ang pagboto?

Ano nga ba ang nasa likod ng sistemang ito?

Naging madalas na sistema ang pagpapasagawa ng mga kalsada sa tuwing papalapit ang eleksiyon tuwing Mayo, kaya’t ito ay naging mistulang mga karantula ng mga politikong nakapaskil sa mga daan na higit na umaagaw ng pansin ng publiko. Ngunit, ang higit na nakakabuhol ng utak ay

DESIREUX

edcel. b FAjuTAG, bs ArchiTecTure ‘16

edcelfajutag@gmail.com

“Ngunit, ang higit na nakakabuhol ng utak ay ang katotohanang ilan sa mga daanang ito ay hindi rin naman nangangailangan ng anumang pagsasaayos o pagbabago.” ang katotohanang ilan sa mga daanang ito ay hindi rin naman nangangailangan ng anumang pagsasaayos o pagbabago; mga kalsadang nasa maayos rin naman ang lagay, ngunit sa pilitang sinisira at muli rin namang ipinapagawa.

Nakasaad sa Sec. 29 ng Artikulo X ng Republic Act 917 o mas kilala bilang Philippine Highway Act of 1953 na sa pagapruba ng batas na ito, walang pera na mula sa kasalukuyan, mula sa naipon na nakaraang pondo o mula sa highway Special fund ay dapat na igugol apat napu’t limang araw bago ang anumang halalan.

Aminin na nating isa sa mga malalaking proyekto ng gobyerno ang pagpapagawa ng mga daanan upang makapagbigay ng maayos na daloy ng trapiko. Ngunit, ito ba ay madalas na napapanahon sa mga araw, linggo o buwan bago pa man sumapit ang eleksiyon?

Ito kaya’y kanilang paraan upang makuha ang loob ng mga tao? Ito ay isang sistemang pansin nang paulit-ulit na nangyayari mula pa noong mga nakaraang taon, kung kaya’t hindi na nagugulat ang publiko.

Naging madalas na ring reklamo ng mga biyahero ang mga nakabarikadang daan, na

base sa kanilang ilang taong pagbiyahe ay hindi rin naman nangangailang ipaayos. Kung ito ma’y nangangailangan ng ilang pagkukumpuni, kailangan bang sapilitan itong bungkalin?

Ayon sa Sec. 3 ng Artikulo II ng parehong batas, ang terminong “maintenance“ ay nangangahulugang paggawa ng mga kailangang pagkukumpuni upang mapanatili ang isang maayos na surfaced highway, at operasyon ng mga umiiral na mga lantsang pantawid, ngunit hindi dapat ay ganapin na isama ang mga pambihirang pag-aayos o pagbabagongtatag.

Isang malaking sagabal ang hatid nito sa pang araw-araw na biyahe ng mga sasakyan, lalong-lalo na sa kalagitnaan ng mainit na panahon ngayon.

Kung nasa reyalidad ngang ang mga kalsadang ito ay nasa maayos rin namang lagay, tama bang sabihin na isa itong pawang malaking pagwawaldas ng malaking pera ng gobyerno?

Alam nating laganap ang korupsyon sa ating bansa, hindi kaya’y ito ay isa sa mga paraan ng mga buwayang politiko upang makakupit ng kwarta ng ating bansa? Kung ito ay kanilang paraan upang madagdagan ang kanilang panggastos sa parating na halalan at upang makahakot ng maraming boto, puwes, hindi na nalilinlang ang mga publiko, at lalong-lalo nang hindi ‘nabibili’ ng pagpapagawa ng mga kalsada ang boto -- hindi na.

your Vote, your Future The nation is set to choose the next forerunners of the country on May 9, 2016. Political candidates running for their respective positions aired their advertisements on television and radio since late last year, and have been making rounds all over the country to win the votes of many. All have the same cry – they are deserving of the spot they are eyeing to provide the veritable public service we have been seeking for.

Red flags have been set up against the presidential candidates – Sen. Grace Poe’s disqualification case for her undetermined nationality and citizenship as well as lack of political experience, Vice President Jejomar Binay’s questionable economic approaches during his term as mayor of Makati City, Mayor Rodrigo Duterte’s rapid fire comments, sexually implied wisecracks and affiliation with the massive killing of criminals, Sen. Miriam Defensor – Santiago’s choice of Sen. ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. as running mate and her deteriorating health due to Stage 4 Lung Cancer, and Sec. Mar Roxas’ weak leadership aura caused by lapses in his Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) secretaryships and being the shadow of the current administration.

With all these laid out, who is rightful of the presidential seat? What is the probability that the country is set to repeat its history, parts of which the nation has suffered? And how will the electorate choose its next leader?

EPOCH

erikA dAnielle m. PePiTo, bs Psych ‘19

erdanielle2007@yahoo.com.ph

“We would not want the country to stay in its puddle of poverty and corruption, and we yearn to change the face of the country by choosing who is apt to follow the Aquino administration.”

It is written in the Article V of the 1987 Constitution that the filipinos have the right to vote. And since we live in democracy, the people play a big role on deciding who should answer to the call of leadership and service. In the Article VII, Section 2, no person may be elected President unless he is a natural-born citizen of the Philippines, a registered voter, able to read and write, at least forty years of age on the day of the elections, and a resident of the Philippines for at least ten years, immediately preceding such election. The president acts as both head of state and head of government of the republic, and is also the leader of the executive branch and commander-in-chief of the Armed forces of the Philippines.

Aside from the stated requirements for those running

in the presidency, those next-inline must be fit to be of service, must have the public’s positive impression, and must always put the nation first before their personal interests. We would not want the country to stay in its puddle of poverty and corruption, and we yearn to change the face of the country by choosing who is apt to follow the Aquino administration. The next president must put his or her heart and soul in serving the country, even if the written amount on the paycheck is smaller, if compared to the monthly income of the upper middle class professional. he or she must be fully aware of the dire consequences that could happen if there is any miscalculated decisions. he or she must be able to represent the country in international assemblies and foreign

diplomatic affairs with the valor and dignity it has worked hard for after foreign forces tried to claim it and rob off its identity.

And most definitely, he or she must put his or her proposed platforms into action so as not to disregard the trust of the nation.

If the filipino voters seek authentic reforms, then they should ponder if they stay true to their choices. And since democracy is part of the picture, the people should not simply leave it to the hands of the government officials to resolve social problems. The nation should keep their minds open and welcome change, and if things do not go the way they want it to, they must not blame the succeeding administration of the problems plaguing the society, since some of these problems are created by the illusions and prospects of society itself.

The forthcoming elections will hopefully shed some light on the electorate to value its importance and necessity. It is a challenge for the voters to never let it slip from their minds that the elections is a serious matter, for it involves the future of many.

Choosing the rightful leaders is a legacy for the generations to come. With wishful thinking, the voters will not allow themselves to be blinded by the temptations of money and by empty promises that will leave them hanging. Choosing the leaders must not be based on fame or personality, but by the sincerity to implement their proposed platforms for the country’s betterment without any taint of personal interest.

Let’s just hope that the May 9 elections will be a fair one.

SpecialReport Augustinian the

A6 Volume LXI Number 3 • May 15, 2016

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

* Inbox!

1CURRICULUM TRANSITION

2016 PRESIDENTIAL ELECTIONS In the absenc e of justic e w hat is sove r e ignty but organiz ed robb e ry ? - st. augustin e

YOU HAVE JUST RECEIVED A NEW MESSAGE!

By kevin jerrol c. erebaren

usa pub PHOTO / MARA ELAIZA A. FLORES

Social media has given us an even bigger platform to voice out our feelings; it’s now time for the good old print media to do the same. Through this, we promote an open communication between the students and the University. We do hope that this innovation would bring something good to our community and to our beloved University. Enjoy reading.

* iWitness: Yudi, damo na bag o nga chairs ang San Ag. Subong man lang na kay opening kang K-12 Curriculum.

Lantawa bala next year, balik naman ta sa seesaw type. * Doody: Ang galing naman ng naisip nila na dito ilagay sa University Campus yung K-12 no. Parang EDSA na nga tayo dito, dinagdagan pa nila. Oh, eh ano, sa field na lang yung ibang klase, ha? * SpiderJuan: Ay eto talaga ang pinakamasaya eh.

K-12 Ready na daw ang Unibersidad. Sana lang hindi din mabawasan o maalis ang minamahal naming mga guro.

Char! * Pabebeboy: Kadamo naman ni malain sa San Ag. Malain na daan mga ginhawa sang iban nga tawo di, galain pa gid mga kurikulum. Okie ah. Ikaw na! * Pachichay: Nami ni kuno ang K-12 kay comprehensive ang pagtudlo. Lantawon ta lang eh ah kung comprehensive man ang grades niyo. * Penekye: Please naman. Huwag you sobrang gawa ng changes. Kapag ang mga estudyante nga ang nagbago.

Hala! Lagot ka. Wala na maeskwela San Ag. PS. Joke lang!

1TINITINGALANG TUITION FEE * PANTYtion: Grabe naman sila kung makapagpataas ng tuition, nakakalaglag underwear. Agad-agaran ba naman! * BBHMM: Oo na, hinding-hindi na kita talaga maaabot.

Ang taas mo na kasi eh. Alam mo na kung sino ka, O Tuition ko! * Mr. Twee Sion: Mabuti pa yung tuition ko nagmaMahal.

Eh, ako nagmuMura! * Matty Pade: Ay nawili sila kapataas tuition oh. Road widening lang ang project? Ay, renovation gale. * Pia Booback: Bilib gid ko sa pagtaas sang aton tuition ah. Damo naman ni masinggit Bra Vro! Aw ah, I mean Bravo!

1CHRONICLES OF SAN AG * Dora No More: O, St. Augustine, paulani man bi kami di cotton buds. Pabungol na lang gid ya ang offices abi. Tagatuig reklamo kami, sila ya, taga-tuig do mga igi, pabungol lang sa sulod shell niyo da ah. * I See R: Kay kadugay na ni nga isyu ang mga man og sa CR kit anon sa gwa sa canteen. Ay abi San Ag, masanag ka gid man tood, pero mga lain-lain imo ya napakita. * Classy Chick: Ahemmm lang gali da sa mga babayi nga mga estudyante ah. Tagu-taguun ta man tani ang kinamatarong ta no. Do oblation ang peg sang pamayo ta eh. * Crammy: May mga tawo gid bala nga nasadyahan gid magpabudlay sa mga estudyante nila. I mean, we are cute kaya. Our beauties don’t deserve any cruelty in subject matters. Pero in all honesty, ang hirap kaya maging pangit tapos stress ka pa? HUSTISYA!

Got an issue to share? Perhaps, an opinion? Don’t be afraid to voice out. We don’t mind your grammar or language. As long as it can be understood. You can make a change by sharing to us your concerns. Let it be heard (or read) here in the Inbox. Send your message at our email, usapublications1@gmail.com, or our official Facebook page.

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

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

The 2016 elections, or the rat race as we like to call it, is an event that would determine the main governing body of the country for the next few years and more. The electorate is asked to give out their votes in support of their chosen candidates in the hopes that the promises of their candidates would finally alleviate the problems plaguing their supporters. But most importantly, it is for their chosen leaders to bring the most important factor that would benefit the country first and foremost, positive change.

With such an important event underway, many concerns were raised and questioned especially with the youth of today. As such, The Augustinian decided to research all the important and crucial topics about the Philippine 2016 Presidential Candidates and general elections to be able to discuss and present information that will inform Augustinians and clear their minds from all the notions and misconceptions when voting for the elections.

What is it about?

The Philippine presidential and vice presidential election to be held this year is the most current presidential elections to date. It is scheduled on Monday, May 9, 2016. The incumbent leader, President Benigno Aquino III, is prevented from vying for reelection in compliance to the 1987 Philippine Constitution.

Therefore at this point, this election will determine who will be the 16th President of the Philippines. This will also be the 16th presidential election in the Philippines since 1935, and the sixth presidential election since 1986.

The Presidential Contenders This year’s race have five major competitors for the most powerful position in the country. These individuals are Mar Roxas, Jejomar Binay, Grace Poe, Miriam Santiago, and Rodrigo Duterte. Roxas, the administration pet, surpassed his competitors for the Senate

race last held in 2004 although he was unable to secure the vice presidential position last presidential and vice presidential elections in 2010. However, he was subsequently appointed by incumbent President Benigno Simeon Aquino III to various executive positions in the past six years. Binay was the mayor of Makati City, the country’s financial focus, before being elected as vice president in 2010. Poe controlled majority of the votes for the senatorial election in 2013. She is also the daughter of the late Fernando Poe, a famous actor, who ran but lost in the 2004 presidential elections. Santiago is a veteran senator who fought for the Filipino’s rights last martial law and placed second in the 1992 presidential elections.

Duterte is mayor of Davao City, located in the southern island of Mindanao. He became popular for making Davao a safe city through his tough methods in suppressing criminality. He is dubbed the ‘Dirty Harry’ of the Philippines because of his anticrime agenda.

The Racing Track In the lead, Roxas has the advantage in terms of leading an established countrywide governmental machine coupled with vast assets simply because he is the leader of the incumbent party. Since he vows to continue and expand the reforms instituted

by Aquino whose platform is called Daang Matuwid (Straight Path or Righteous Path), he wouldn’t expect

much opposition or needed to reinstitute new reforms. If Roxas is the administration candidate, who then is the main opposition frontrunner? Unfortunately there is no clear distinctive answer for this question. Even though it is generally considered that Binay may be the selected crown of the opposition coalition, propaganda from his allies and enemies soured public opinion on his credibility as a future leader of the country. And even though Poe has been critical of the Aquino government, it didn’t prevent her from becoming the first choice of the ruling party for the position of vice president and is thusly considered by everybody as a neophyte in the presidential race. She barely managed to defend her position of candidacy lately. Santiago is also a consistent critic of the government, though her political party has little influence in local politics. She is not that vocal and visible during campaigns unlike her other contenders that the public are mostly uninformed of her platforms and credibility as a politicians.

Duterte only formalized his candidacy a few months ago.

Despite the booming support he received from the masses, many still doubt his full sincerity in running for presidency given his previous reluctance of doing so.

The “Vehicle” Platforms Every candidate has their pros and cons with their choice of leadership. Roxas gambles his chance to win by stressing the necessity for stability brought about by continuing what his predecessor has started. But adversaries question his competence and the supposed accomplishments of the Aquino administration by highlighting the worsening traffic situation in Metro Manila, the continuing suffering of Typhoon Haiyan survivors, and the implementation of the unconstitutional ‘presidential pork’. Given that the former administration’s stance was not that strong nor effective, it is natural to question the need to

continue a project which never accomplished anything great from the start. Binay woes the poor and the common mass for support even though his family is hounded by corruption and plunder charges. Poe was the early favorite because of her stellar performance in the senate but her popularity suffered when her previous American citizenship was questioned in the courts. Though recent events that allowed her candidacy recovered some of the support she lost. Santiago, who is known for her intellectual prowess, has a large following among the youth but many are worried that her health problems could affect her candidacy. Duterte’s prodigious rise from mayor to a major presidential contender could be accredited to the public’s frustration with an unequal and inefficient political system. He is seen by some analysts and an increasing number of citizens as this year’s alternative candidate who will solve the country’s problems which traditional mainstream politicians have failed to do.

The Betting Tool With information on the candidates thusly disseminated, how then could the public influence the outcome of this election? One should know the tools used for voting.

This is the third time that the Philippines will use automated voting technology, which many experts credited to be faster and arguably produce more credible election results in 2010 and 2013. However, some are worried about the reliability and security of the digital software and the prospect of vote manipulation based on previous results. In addition, some are questioning the dominance of one company in facilitating vote automation and counting since 2010.

Despite this, the final outcome is still dependent on who the majority votes for. It is up to the people then to make the change by choosing the best individual for the job.

Augustinian the

Volume LXI Number 3 • May 15, 2016

Sports

A7

Queen for a rook M oving t h e pieces to succ ess

NO ROOM FOR ROOKIES. Carmele Benihagan and Alea Bianca Garingalao (lower right) gamefully pose for a photo following their championship during this year’s PRISAA which marks five consecutive years that they have held on to the title; dedication and an enhanced skill set has led these players to defend their title year after year. (USA PUB PHOTO / CLYDE ALLEN E. SOLLESTA)

By Marie Julienne V. Caballete

She breathed heavily while looking at the miniature pieces that seemed to mock her. Only a few minutes left and their fate will be decided. She glanced over her opponents’ shoulder, “you can do it.” Her teammates cheered. With a shaky hand, she made her last move by winning the rook from Philidor position. Alas! The timer ran out and she was just in time for her ultimate end game. “Congratulations, you are this year’s PRISAA champion.”

Do you still remember the first sport you participated in when you were still a wee youngster?

Probably yes, probably no, but for the members of the University of San Agustin (USA) chess team, the memory will always be fresh and present in their minds.

Parents had always been the ones who taught us many things when were still toddlers.

Alea Bianca Garingalao and Carmele Benihagan are part of the University’s chess team.

Alea’s humble beginnings as a chess player took place when she was still in first grade, however it was not until fourth grade that she took the sport seriously.

In Carmele’s case, her father was a great influence in her engagement in the world of

chess.

“I started playing chess when my father taught me how to play the game. Since then, chess had been a part of my life,” Carmele shared to The Augustinian.

Chess, for the members of team is not just a game but also an important driver for personal growth.

FORTRESS Contrary to what some people may think, chess is just as difficult as other sports. It also requires practice, dedication and focus. This being said the USA chess team also experienced some hindrances along the way. However, this did not stop them from playing their pieces right to overcome their adversary.

“Time management is the key,” Alea informed when asked

what the key was to juggling sports and studies.

“Usually we practice thrice a week. There are instances where exams and competitions are held on the same day, but we always choose to prioritize our exams because sometimes, we may not be able to make up our absence,” Carmele added.

With these given challenges, the team managed to maintain and continue their active participation both in academics and in chess.

“I think what made us continue playing chess despite all the struggles that we encountered is the fact that we have the opportunity to make new friends, the pride that will be given to the University and our families and most especially, our passion for playing chess,” Alea and Carmele shared.

Carmele placed second

left in their care.

When asked if they have advice for all incoming chess players she imparted; Carmele advised for them to practice, not take their MAJOR PIECE studies for granted The USA chess and to maintain team had been their grades. declared as PRISAA Alea, on champions for five the other hand, consecutive years.

“The pressure shared that “if you really want to continue the something you team’s legacy is a should work hard great responsibility for it. Giving up is for all of us.” She affirmed. not an option.”

Chess is more than just CHECKMATE a sport, so are Despite all the ups and downs, the athletes who chose to take up the USA chess GARINGALAO the challenge team continued to of participating in this mindventure in the world of chess boggling and intellectually with nostopping them from continuing the legacy that was engaging sport. during the latest UNIGAMES. Both Carmele and Alea competed in ASEAN and were awarded presidential medals.

Golden Eagle athletes dominate ASAM 2016 a volleyball player, shared during an interview with The Augustinian.

Among the participating schools, Colegio San Agustin – Bacolod placed first-runner up while Colegio San Agustin – Biñan ranked second.

“ASAM is one of the best events in Augustinian community because it gave us [a chance] to bond with other Augustinian schools [from] different places,” said Joshua Nuñal, a basketball player in an interview with The Augustinian.

AUGUSTINIAN ATHLETES. Athletes from Colegio de San Agustin - Bacolod (CSAB) and University of San Agustin (USA) grapple over the ball during one of the games at the Augustinians Schools Athletic Meet (ASAM). (USA PUB PHOTO / mara elaiza

a. flores)

By RJ JUNSAY AND MELKY B. ARBOLEDA

Beating seven Augustinian Universities and Colleges across the country, the University of San Agustin (USA) grabbed the limelight of success as they were named as the overall champion in this year’s Augustinian Sports

Athletic Meet (ASAM) held at USA, Oct. 25-30.

USA notched the championship title in Basketball (Elementary), Beach Volleyball (Boys & Girls, Secondary), and Volleyball (Girls, Secondary) and grabbed gold medals in Table Tennis (Secondary) and Chess (Elementary).

“[For] this year’s ASAM we felt excited and the spirit of sportsmanship is within us.

Although there are problems in accommodation even if we are the host school but still we were happy that ASAM became the venue for us, players, to bond even in a short period of time,” said Ray Onell Betita,

“Even though we lost to UNO-R [in] last year‘s ASAM we learned from them [and] after the awarding ceremony we enjoyed chatting and bonding with other Augustinians from different regions.”

Other participating schools are University of NegrosOccidental-Recoletos (UNO-R), Colegio del Sto. Niño de Cebu (CSNC), University of San JoseRecoletos de Cebu (USJ-RC), La Consolacion College – Bacolod (LCC-B), and San Jose Catholic School (SJCS).

In preparation of the Augustinian athletes, Demosthenes Toledo, sports director of the USA, shared, “We train students to excel in sports through tedious, they practice during [early] morning and [after class in the] evening in order not to disrupt their classes.”

ASAM occurs every two years but it was on 2012 that ASAM was cancelled due to the fire incident in Bacolod, who supposedly will host the sport event that year.

sports AugustiniAn the

Queen for a Rook: Moving the pieces to success

DR. BLOOD

Wilkienson c. muro, b mls ‘19

mwilkienson@yahoo.com

“For the University should assume that without the involvement of a student body who are willing to work towards the same goal, it would be dif�icult to manage any desired plan.”

hemming and hawing $400 million fight, which Mayweather won by a unanimous decision? That’s when the conviction to retire of Pacman seems less definite. even his mother, Mommy Dionisia wants her son to quit the fight and just be contented of what Pacquaio has achieved.

Retirement is the period after one has permanently stopped his or her job or profession. It is not something where you rest then come back whenever you want to. Thus, if Pacquiao really wanted to retire, he must be firm with his decision and be accountable for it as it also talks about his character.

On the other side of the coin, Pacquiao has been part of the Philippine politics for the past few years at same time continuing his boxing career.

Doing these herculean tasks, it is evident that both professions are suffering from the divided attention of the boxer. Issues

regarding the absences of Pacquaio in the Congress has been raised while he was on training at the same he had lost most of his fights during those years.

There is no doubt that he had put the name of the Philippines in the hall of fame in boxing and the filipino icon who had already done so much in raising our Filipino flag to the world. he also once said, “I started boxing to help [my family] and now I will end my boxing career because I want to help my countrymen.” everything has to come to an end, in Pacquiao’s case, leaving the boxing ring and glamour of fame is a difficult decision to make but opens the possibility for him to become a better politician or person indeed. Despite issues and controversies due to his hemming and hawing retirement decision, Pacquiao will always be a filipino pride.

Augustinian athletes notch gold in regionals by rj junsAy and melky b. ArboledA

ARMOReD with dedication and sports enthusiasm, University of San Agustin athletes bagged several gold medals in five sports categories out of 17 sports events against four provinces in the Western Visayas Private Schools Athletic Association (WVPRISAA) meet held in Roxas City, Capiz, february 24-28.

Despite the lack of time for training due to busy class schedules, the University still made their way to show their supremacy in basketball women and individual events in lawn tennis, chess, taekwondo and swimming.

“PRISAA is where we can gauge how far our athletes can go and how far the school can support the athletes in terms of their performance. It is where you’ll know if your team is capable of competing in higher

levels because if you’re the champion, you have the right to represent Iloilo in the regional meet,” said Demosthenes Toledo, Sports Director of the University, during an interview with The Augustinian.

Through tedious training, the athletes practice during mornings and evenings in order not to disrupt classes and led the way to sweep their competitors off the play according to Toledo.

“Well of course the team was very overwhelmed because we won over the CAPRISAA team but at the same time it also became a wake up call for us for it was a close fight.

Because of that, we knew that we had to double our efforts for the upcoming nationals and I hope it’ll be enough to take the championship this year,” said Donna Gin Tube, basketball player.

In preparation for the nationals in April 3-9 to be

Volume LXI Number 3 • May 15, 2016

Move Today

SPORTS EDITORIAL

welterweight, welterweight and junior middleweight divisions – from 112 to 154 pounds – during a career that began in 1995 and took him from an unknown to a global star. however, during a press conference at Madison Square Garden, Pacquiao said, “Sad to say after this (Pacquiao vs.

Bradley rematch) I’m going to retire and hang up my gloves and focus on my other responsibility in life, to help the people.”

The 37-year-old Pacquiao plans to run for a Senate seat in the Philippines with the election set for May 9. If elected, Pacquiao figures he’ll be too busy fulfilling the duties of his office to continue a professional boxing career that has seen him win a world title in eight different weight divisions.

But what if he loses the election or someone named floyed Mayweather comes out of his self-imposed retirement and wants a rematch of their

Article at Page A7

Article at Page A7

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

DeSPITe the proclamation of Manny Pacquiao to retire after his rubber match against Timothy Bradley Jr. on April 10 (April 9 in the US), many ringside observers cast their doubts about the final bout of his career. The renowned southpaw from General Santos City himself said that retirement is still his main plan, but comeback is an option.

This makes people think of what his real purpose is. Is being hailed as the first and only eight-division world champion, in which he has won ten world titles as well as the first to win the lineal championship in four different weight classes, not enough for him? The indecisiveness of the people’s champ regarding his retirement places him in the spotlight of controversies once more.

The Pambansang Kamao has won world titles at the flyweight, junior featherweight, featherweight,junior lightweight, lightweight, junior

golden eagle Atheletes Dominate AsAM 2016

held at Koronadal City, South Cotabato, Toledo plans to have a Summer Camp for rigid training for the athletes.

When asked about how he motivates the Augustinian

athletes, Toledo shared, “[I] always tell them to] study, pray and play. In spite of all the struggles, we love this game, this is our passion.”

souRCe: FilaMer cHristian UniVersity (usa pub INfoGRaphIC / JoHn elMer J. balan)

NOT all people are academically inclined, some are born with manipulative, mechanical or athletic skills and talents. focusing on sports, this talent is supposed to be honed, at the very beginning, at their respective houses and schools. Through joining different teams to compete in various sports competitions, this will enhance the skills and mold the perseverance and understanding of aspiring students toward sports. But, what if the facilities and the equipment are the ones that hinder the students to perspire more for their fervor? And what if these would perennially strangle their capability as athletes?

The University of San Agustin (USA) is the oldest yet most competitive university in Western Visayas, may it be in academic or non-academic proficiency as basis. Just like in sports, it consistently bags gold and silver medals in swimming, table tennis, lawn tennis, basketball and even in chess competitions. Meanwhile, the University’s women basketball, chess, swimming and table tennis and lawn tennis team are again representing Western Visayas in the National Private Schools Athletic Association (National PRISAA) 2016. However, despite its reign on the said field, both in local and national grounds, it faces a lot of enduring problems that evidently affect the performance of its competing teams.

Based on an interview of The Augustinian with the University’s Sports Director, Mr. Demosthenes Toledo, recently, the University is experiencing a crisis of giving appropriate and satisfying services to its athletes. This covers the unavailability of courts due to some cultural events, the inadequacy in different sports equipment, the lack of space for the construction of building exclusively for sports, and the inefficient sustainability of both the equipment and the facilities.

Moreover, these dilemmas are undeniably perturbing to the students of the University. The students keep on complaining of having a hard time participating in their Pe classes due to the apportioning of the spaces in the gym for both the learners and the athletes. Sometimes, there are postponements of classes because of the cultural events that are held in the area. Consequently, there are certain topics in the Pe manual that are not discussed and the supposedly skills-to-be-mastered by the students are untapped.

These would create hidden and untapped potential which eventually decreases the chance of the University to produce more notable athletes in the Visayan Region.

Adding insult to injury, the athletes also share some sentiments with the students. The number one raised issue are the sports equipment they are using. Before it reaches their hands, it is already marred. Also, when it comes to the sports facilities, before the athletes could use it, it is either ruined or disturbed which will waste their time to prepare the area then practice. It is not the people outside to blame for the obliteration of the equipment and the facilities but the very own students of the University. Well, solely we can’t just blame the students because in one way or another there are other athletes who are also heavy-handed. Both parties keep on asking for an upgrade of sports facilities and equipment but also neglect to maintain it when the time comes. These are not just some ‘doodads’ for the University to ignore but a problem that calls the attention for a long-term solution.

On the brighter side of the scoop, although the University’s crises tremendously influenced its competing teams this 2016 National PRISAA, it never backed down from the fight and continued to remain optimistic, and as a resolution to its exacerbating mare’s nest, the school keeps on struggling to carry out their timetable of having a “compact” building wherein exclusively all the facilities and the equipment are offered to all the students. They assume three to five years is enough for accomplishment of the plan. With these, it evokes for the help of the students to care not just for their own selves but also for the totality of the University. for the University should assume that without the involvement of a student body who are willing to work towards the same goal, it would be difficult to manage any desired plan.

Yes, we have varying inclinations but we were born with two legs, two hands, two eyes, two ears, one mouth and one head, you don’t say. And these call for our capability to help not just for our own benefits but as to what caters to the majority. Sports is just one field in which we have problems today. We shall not wait that these problems, as they multiply, repress us. Because every day we have the power to do something about these, we should not wait for tomorrow to come and move us down to the reality of fixing it the filipino way - late. Why do something tomorrow when you can actually do something about it today?