Augustinian the
Volume LXII • Number 5 May 29, 2017
features fold
USA PUB PHOTOs • edrea claire g. gregore
ALL ACTS OF LOVE IN ONE STAGE Theater is love, Theater is life
b y e d w a r d d omin ic e . e mil io
The mourning lady’s screech silenced the busy bees buzzing through the Ayala Atria Park District that evening. February the 18th felt just like any other day – life was flowing in its accustomed stream that cold Saturday night. Until suddenly --“Sa kada liwat-liwat ko sang akon nga istorya, daw parehos man lang nga daw ginadugangan ang pasa sa akon nga kalawasan. Amo na gani nga ginakadlaw ko nalang, para sa bisan sa amo lang na ka gamay nga panahon, mabuhinan man lang ang tanan nga sakit nga akon nabatyagan, halin sa tampa, sipa, buyayaw, kag sapote sang tatay ko,” the lady narrates. Her shouting had everyone’s gaze transfixed on her. As her frail body bows down, she slowly picks up a red gown, covers the marks of abuse that have tampered her limbs, wipes the tears of unutterable sadness that fills her eyes, and asks, “Now tell me, can I wear this Maria Clara dress again?” The Rizalian heroine had been brought to life on stage by the University of San Agustin Little Theater (USALT).
All the World’s a Stage It was no ordinary February the 18th. That night was filled with stupefying surprises as some of Iloilo’s finest theater companies staged excerpts from their plays during the opening program of Iloilo Theater Festival (ILOTF) 3.0. Peformances came in as various theater companies from state universities, national high schools, and private educational institutions took the stage anew in some fresh and appealing form. The first full performance began on Monday, February 20 as alumni of the USALT staged ‘Cupcakes’, a romantic-comedy narrating the different ways people look for love in the USA Auditorium. The 21st saw an intimate staging in the Iloilo City District Jail of ‘Hilway: Freedom in Prison’, a dramatic monologue telling the various tales of women in prison who search for freedom by sharing their stories. On the 22nd, the USA Junior Little Theater staged ‘Passion Fruit Shake’, a story about finding one’s passion and purpose. The 23rd set the stage for ‘Basura Busters’, a play about the
environment performed by the USA Teen Theater Company, and the University of the Philippines Visayas College of Management Play Festival that featured four plays on mental health. On the 24th, the USA Conservatory of Music staged the opera, ‘The Gondoliers’ on an intimate stage in the USA Choir Room. The finale on the 26th saw all 15-minute shorts curated into one segment and all political plays curated in another called ‘Alab ng Dulaan’. Remembering, Re-membering The finale segment called ‘Alab ng Dulaan’ became the festival’s commentary on the melancholy of our political reality. ILOTF tried to unmask the forgotten yesteryears of the divided Philippine landscape and contribute to its reunification. “The pieces we selected for Alab ng Dulaan represented contemporary political issues. With our current experience of fake news and alternative facts, we have been dismembered from reality and from the past,” states Eric Divinagracia, USALT artistic director and ILOTF head organizer. “We thought of theater as an act of remembering and remembering. Remembering not just as a process of recalling but also to become a member again of our continuing past and our unfolding present,” he adds. Theater, truly, can remember as demonstrated by Alab ng Dulaan’s final performance called ‘Darna for Change’. This political monodrama by Charmaine Frosa of the USALT is a reinterpretation of the traditional female superhero that recontextualizes her into the current political backdrop of the Philippines. “This was a different Darna,” explains Frosa, “this was Darna in black. It was about the political issues we are experiencing nowadays [like] extra-judicial killings, historical revisionism, and blind loyalty. She became the voice of the voiceless. She was not afraid to pinpoint the issues by expressing, ‘pinag aral kayo upang maging
matalino pero mas pinili ninyong magpakabobo’.” Although ‘Alab ng Dulaan’ might cause those unprepared to be oppressed and disheartened by its chillingly accurate portrayal of reality, flashes of tenderness and love found in each play still bind and ‘re-member’ the viewers. #TheaterIsLove The overarching theme for ILOTF 3.0 was “Theater Is Love”. All of the plays were products of dreams and passions, proof that the Ilonggo genius knows no limits and that Ilonggo love knows no bounds “[We chose the theme] because Iloilo City is the City of Love and February is love month. The “hearts” theme is also very accessible. But aside from being about romance, it is also a theme about who we love and what we should love,” Divinagracia explains. Indeed, for all of the plays were basically love stories. Love for the environment was present in Basura Busters’ undending shades of green. Hilway had the audience falling into a dreamy silence as they witness a portrait of love as freedom.
The USA Junior Little Theater’s Passion Fruit Shake echoed each character’s passion and beloved purpose. Even Cupcakes from the USALT Alumni narrated not only a romcom tale but also each character’s musings about their darling Iloilo City. Loi Gamboa, one of Cupcake’s leads, explains the play’s rationale, “Essentially, it is a romantic comedy by nature but we wanted it to have an intellectual core. We want to show everyone that Iloilo will always be home to us. That even if we do not stay here, it would always feel like home.” This was how ILOTF pulled over the soul of the Ilonggo. Each quirky reference struck a chord in someone’s heart. Every second of theater had a touch of Iloilo, a touch of home. “One character in the story is an architect,” Gamboa narrates, “and he mentions many places he has not visited yet because he has been outside the country like J.M. Basa Street and the Molo Mansion. These places are being restored now because they would always be the places that people come back to and say, ‘this is Iloilo.’”
Institutionalizing the Arts This much was contributed by the University for the Arts and Culture and as a testament of its undying support for the field, the institution also unveiled its plan to establish a University Summer Arts Program (USAP) under its Center for Research, Innovation, and Development slated to begin on April 17 this year and projected to last until the 29th. The said program will offer courses on acting for Kids (812) and Teens (13-16) as well as production design to be handled by the USALT and USALT Alumni and will be open to all who are interested. “....can I wear this Maria Clara dress again?” What followed was defeaning silence, and then thunderous applause. Maria Clara entered the stage with a purple bruised limb. Maria Clara entered the stage with heavy eyes that outweighed the horrors of her past. But when she shared her story and told her tale through theater, she knew that at the end of it all she was still loved and remembered. She knew that she was still wearing the white flower of a blameless life.
B2 Augustinian the
Volume LXII • Number 5 May 29, 2017
valediction
usa pub photos • edrea claire g. gregore
Pub is life, but MedTech is lifer
b y Fr e n n ie M. Tababa
“Each month, when the issue is done, you think, ‘if I’m still doing this crap next month, I’m not even a human.’ But you still keep doing it. This is actually addicting.” – Excerpt from She Was Pretty Every now and then, I still can’t believe how I got myself in the USA Publications. Being an Editor-in-Chief (EIC) of my high school publication in Tubungan, I have always wanted to continue my passion in writing in college, but I didn’t even imagine that I would also be the EIC of one of the most prestigious publications in Western Visayas. I entered the pub as a shy, always sleepy, and quiet type Karay-a girl. Whenever I am in the office, you would always see me along the sidelines and I never wanted to be on the center of attention. At that time, I didn’t have the courage to talk with the other pubpips because I don’t know much Ilonggo words. However, being in the Pub, and at the same time, having enrolled under MLS program is quite challenging. You really have to forget your inhibitions and try your best to belong in the group or you will forever be left behind. I also have to balance my time and try to take an extra mile as a student and as a Pubpip. And
to be honest, there were times that I told myself to give up and to focus only in one field, but I told myself, I can still survive in both fields. I even imagined myself being the first MLS student to graduate as a Pubpip, but as years passed by, not only my position was upgraded but also the level of difficulty in my major subjects turned just like in a clincher round. And this was really the time - the time to forgo my other passion and to focus on my other goal. I am not really fond of goodbyes but I am a believer of new beginnings. Before my term officially ends, I just want to give thanks to the persons who helped and honed me in every step of the way. First and foremost, to Sir Ray, our moderator, for helping the Pub conquer the greater heights, for being the moderator who everyone looks up to, and for being understanding and patient even though we commit errors. Thank you’s are not enough to give back what you have imparted to the pub, but
THANK YOU sir, a big thanks to you; to Sir Jeff and Nang Ayah, our Pub tito and tita, for the time and expertise you shared to the Pub to edit our articles and be our guardians whenever we have events and activities; and, to Nong Joel and Nang Steph, our previous EICs, for helping me hone my craft, being my models and for the unconditional support to the pub, THANK YOU! For the Pubpips, who I will surely miss, who I’ve shared my problems with regarding my studies, who I’ve had a few laughs, who are with me whenever I am hungry, sad, happy and whatever emotions, who will stay late at night to beat the deadlines, who will always have a listening ear and who will always have a special place in my heart, thank you for being a part of my life even though it’s only a short while. I also want to mention my MLS 4-C classmates for the support, words of encouragement, and help you have shared not only to me but also to the Pub; for driving me all the way from school to Panorama just to arrive on time, for the help in lifting the boxes in every building, for backing me up to our teachers whenever I am absent because of pubworks, thank you classmates and I hope and pray that we all can surpass the challenges of our course, in God’s time. To my family, even though I don’t have enough time to go home, thank you for supporting me in my passion, may it be emotionally, mentally and even financially. And last but definitely not the least, to the most powerful and gracious Father above, thank you for the gift of life, family and friendship that You have given me and I will always treasure the times and experiences I have with them. After almost three years, the shy, always sleepy, and quiet type of girl transformed into a loud, not so energetic (just in the middle) and bossy girl, thanks to my fellow Pubpips, they changed and honed me in every step of the way. I may have changed but this change, I know, is for the better. But I am, and will always be the Karay-a girl you knew from the start. Well, pub is life, but MedTech is lifer. “Even though it’s difficult at the end of each issue, strangely, somehow, it’s extremely thrilling.” – Excerpt from She Was Pretty
of keys, pen and symbols by daryl s. sele r i o
I remember the first time I laid eyes on the University. Everything seems surreal. I caught myself enthralled by the thought that I am entering a new chapter of my life. I knew, even before I set foot on her portals, that the road I will traverse will be a bleak and muddy one. Nonetheless, my dreams were more than enough to encourage me to put my best foot forward for the journey that awaits me inside the four corners of San Agustin. The USA Publications had played a great role for the realization of my passion in the arts and literature. I am one of those few people who had the opportunity to enjoy scores of privileges for being a part of this premiere organization for three consecutive years. To Sir Ray, thank you would be an understatement to express my gratitude for motivating me
to hone my skills in writing and in the arts. You are definitely one of the few people who stirred me to be a better version of myself. Always remember that you are a blessing to the USA Pub, to us, and to me. To Sir Jeff, Nang Ayah, and
Brod Joel, thank you so much. I was inspired by the things you never thought you will do. I feel fortunate to have met the likes of you. To Madam Frennie, our EIC, of keys
PAGE B5
Isang Aninong Iginuhit na Hindi Mabura
by h e r o d a . m o n t i e l
Nag-umpisa ang paglalakbay ko sa mundo ng pamamahayag noong ako’y nasa ika-tatlong taon na sa sekondarya. Sa totoo lang, hindi sumagi sa isipan ko na sumali sa ganitong aktibidad sa paaralan. Ako kasi ang tipo ng estudyante na idulo si Juan Tamad at naglalaro ng habulan sa responsibilidad. Pero isang araw, bigla akong sinabihan ng aking guro na tagapayo rin ng pahayagan ng paaralan, na sumali sa editorial cartooning. Isa kasing mahusay na kartunista ng aming pahayagan ang nakakatanda
kong kapatid noong siya’y nasa sekondarya pa lamang. Kaya sinubukan kong sumali sa kompetisyon sa editorial cartooning sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon at buong gulat ko na ang isang katulad kong butil
pa lamang sa larangang ito ay tatanghaling kampyon. Untiunti ko nang nagugustuhan ang pamamahayag at naging aktibo sa larangang ito hanggang sa ako’y nasa ika-apat na taon na. Sa pagtatapos ko sa sekondarya, saya at lungkot ang naramdaman ko. Gusto ko pang makipag-espadahan ng lapis sa mga kapwa ko kartunista. Hahanap-hanapin ko ang pakiramdam na kabahan at maexcite kapag sumasali sa ganitong kompetisyon. Gusto ko gumuhit pa. Kaya sa pagtungtong ko sa University of San Agustin sa kursong BS Architecture, noong ika-tatlong taon ko na sa kolehiyo, tila aninong sunod ng sunod ang kagustuhan kong sumali sa pahayagan kaya sinubukan ko ulit mag-aplay dito. Lubos ang aking kasiyahan ng malaman kong pumasa ako sa kanilang isinigawang pagsusulit at naging opisyal na artist. Hindi ako makapaniwala na makakasama ko sa iisang kwarto ang buwig ng mga matatalino at makakatang estudyante ng unibersidad. Parang ako yung bulok na pinagigitnaan ng mga isang anino
PAGE B6
B3
The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin, Iloilo City, Philippines
www.usapub.net
Totally Deeply Rooted in my Heart b y jece l t . b u e na v i d e s
Almost blacked out caused by my chaotic thoughts. Almost drowned with the deluge of how’s and why’s. This is how my life would cruise without destination and purpose when I first entered the University, not until my zeal in writing knocked up. My life filled with almosts was absolutely revised when I entered the USA Publications. I was one of those freshmen students who had hard time adjusting in terms of different phases; change in environment, teachers, and friends. I kept on searching for the things that would light up the gloomy disposition of my life and thank God I found another reason to keep on going. When I joined the USA Pub, I felt like a total advocate. I am really grateful that I was given the opportunity to become a part of a noble and a respectable organization. It was only a dream of mine which started from the moment I saw their magazines and folios. Nevertheless, USA Pub has become an essential tool for me to complete my being and embrace life’s imperfections.
Furthermore, what made my stay in the USA Pub worthy were the values and learning I was able to acquire. It was really a tough but priceless experience for me, of simultaneously coping with my studies as well as being able to shed some light to our fellow Augustinians through writing. I learned to value time, more of what it deserves, and making sure that I’m productive in everything that I do. I also gained a lot of patience, especially when it comes to waiting for the approval of letters of requests for interviews and other Pub matters. Instead of losing my patience, I just simply think of the word ‘passion’ and everything flows smoothly. Also, I was able to develop my communication skills through organizing my thoughts before I speak and convey my message. In my two years in the Pub, everyday was an adventure. One of my memorable experiences was conducting a social experiment in our “Breaking the Norms” magazine issue wherein I was able to do things I thought I couldn’t. We roamed around the school campus, wearing our comfy pajamas, barefoot, playing and oblivious of our childish acts. This activity offered me a glimpse of how society embraces various changes in behaviour, and even in sexuality.
My blooming story by ROCHELLE MAE M . MU Z ONES
Once there was a flower that is afraid to bloom at its fullest. Afraid that its beauty might not be enough to the world where it lives. However, that flower finds a home away from home. They nurtured it, they cherished each moment with it and they showed to it that being itself is the best that it can be.
Hard times will always reveal true friends. Despite the weight of the task given to us, everything is replaced with happiness and satisfaction as we are working hand in hand to issue a responsive, developmental and research-based publication. The pubpips have become my driving force to continue improving and bringing out the best in me. This made me appreciate life more, by having genuine friends who completely accept the other side of me and this made me attain a total well-being. They’ve become
my family who, in one way or another, reminded me to always view life at its best. Almost. My life once filled with approximates and uncertainty was instantly unified, creating a whole version of myself, and giving me absolute freedom. All thanks to USA Publications for aiding me to evolve into a complete, mature, and self-sufficient being. Above all, thank you for helping me discover how to build a sense of total happiness no one can ever take.
picture perfect ending by MARA ELAIZA A. FLORES
Stress, new classmates, loads of school work, and 7:30 AM classes were some of the things that bugged me as I set foot in the University as a Psychology student. However, these challenges were replaced with endless opportunities, laughter and memories, when I became part of the USA Publications. My journey started with a text message from my cousin, who was a former member of the Pub, asking me to meet her at the Alumni Building. We then entered a room filled with giggling people and cheers of excitement flooded at the moment they saw my cousin, as if they have never seen her for ages. She introduced them to me as the “Pubpips”. As I awkwardly stood against a wooden cabinet while eavesdropping on their conversation on the latest news about the budding romance between two friends, a question barged inside my head, “Will I be able to find friends like that?” After passing the
overwhelming Pub examination as a photojournalist, I started as the quiet girl, sitting at a corner of the office during weekly meetings. Because of the carefree atmosphere inside the office, I found myself laughing my heart out with the Pubpips every vacant period. A year in the USA Publications will never be complete without experiencing backaches and rumbling tummies after covering a school event.
Through numerous seminars, conferences and contests, my low-key shots and photography skills eventually turned into impressive photos and worthy experiences. In my four years of being a part of the Pub, I have encountered some speed bumps and rocky paths. It came to a point where I felt separated from my classmates due to my excessive stay at the office, and would often hear them say, “Te pirme ka man
sa Pub”. Despite the sharp words and looks that I have received from other people who never understood how the Pub helped me pass through the windy road of college life, I carried on with my quest as a Pubpip. This passion for photography will never be etched in me without the generosity of the Almighty Father. I will always cherish and be thankful of Your gifts. Thank you for guiding me through life and for providing solutions to every problem that I had and may encounter in the future. To my parents who are still continuing to support me in my non-academic endeavors since grade school, thank you for believing in me and equipping me with cameras, from disposables to high-end ones. To my ever proud and supportive aunts and uncles, particularly Mama Cyrene, Papa Paul, Tita Myrene, Tita Cecil and Tita Gina, thank you for appreciating my work and achievements. To the person who pushed me to join the USA Publications, my cousin, Nang Gen, thank you for imparting picture perfect
Now, that flower blooms at its fullest. It may not be the grandest bloom ever but that bloom made it strong enough to change its world. Taking up a special program for journalism during my high school days moved me to incline better towards journalism. I remember when I first joined the Regional Quiz Bee hosted by the USA Publications in 2014. It was my first time, I think, to see their work and therefore, out of curiosity, I read each output that they have. Then, my heart was filled with awe with the quality outputs they produced and in the style of writing the writers possessed. With that, I said to myself that one day, I will be a writer in that student publication too. Indeed, life’s full of surprises and one day, I woke up seeing my name in the editorial box. As what I firmly believe in, with great beauty comes great responsibility and I can attest it with how the USA Pub functions. Behind all the amazing outputs it yields lies stressed writers, artists and photographers with the deadlines to beat and peachy outputs to achieve. Nonetheless, all these struggles were nothing upon reaping the fruits of our labor. These things might be nothing to some but for us, it is something that we treasure a lot. Likewise, these things made me who I am now and made me last for two years in the Pub. First of all, I want to thank the Almighty Father for giving me the opportunity to join this oneof-a-kind organization. Thank you for sending your beautiful and handsome angels (of course the Pubpips) who accompanied me throughout my stay. I will patiently wait whatever plans You have for me. To our moderator,
Sir Ray, and to our Editor-inChief, Nang Frennie, thank you for everything. This year has been a roller coaster ride, however, we were able to surpass all the hardships until the end because of that strong leadership you both have. I will always carry the teachings you gave me, whether it may be about journalism or real-life situations. To Sir Jeff and Nang Ayah, thank you for serving as our Pub tito and tita. Thank you for all the love and support you shared with us. To my Pub seniors, thank you for welcoming me with a bang two years ago. Thank you for all the hahaha’s and the huhuhu’s that we shared. May the Lord guide each of you to the path that you have taken. To the Pub babies (including the Pub manongs and manangs), thank you so much! Thank you for making my two years stay in college worthwhile. Thank you for the never-ending chitchats and karaoke’s. The fun and stress that we all partaken will always, in all ways, have a special place in my heart. I never expected to write a valediction as early as this year. If only I have a choice, I would really love to stay for another two years to this organization. Life will not always go the way we want it to be. Nevertheless, I will still be a big fan girl of USA Publications. Continue to ignite the minds of the people with responsive, developmental and researchedbased journalism. God bless you for the next school year. The flower may leave so soon with its home but she will carry with it all the memories that its home bestowed. It will continue to bloom not just for itself but also to the life of others, just like how the home fostered the flower.
PAGE b 6
Once a pubpip, always a pubpip
b y ARMIE THERESE C. PENUELA
Staring for hours at my laptop screen but not typing anything, I wondered why my brain went empty. Frustrated? Yes, definitely. Yet I have no choice because few days from now is the deadline of my articles.
I’ve experienced this scenario several times already, most especially when deadlines are fast approaching. But right now, it’s the other way around. I have so much in my mind that I don’t know where to start. USA Publications had been my home for the past two years. The office has been a witness to my struggles and triumphs, both in my academic and personal lives. My fellow Pubpips even heard me laugh as hard as I can which I don’t usually do with other people’s company. Unquestionably, never was it easy for me to juggle my academics and Pub life. There were instances that I even asked myself if I am still capable of doing my tasks. I thought before that it would have been easier if I have a fellow Pharmacy student in the Pub, at least I have somebody whom I could share my struggles with. Little did I
know that behind the smiling faces of my fellow Pubpips are also the struggles we share in our academic life. Somehow, our casual talks about embarrassing moments, fears, frustrations, dreams, dislikes, likes and a long list follows have helped us build comfort and ease with each other. Again, I never regretted that I took the challenge of taking the Pub exams though this year it was really brain draining. Well, it is actually one of the best choices I’ve made in my life, ever! To our moderator, Engr. Ray Adrian Macalalag, thank you so much for the guidance and for pushing us to do our best. Sir, believe me when I say that you will always be one of the people I look up to. To Sir Jeff and Nang Ayah, thank you for being always ready to help the Pub. Your advices and expertise had been our
light at times when we struggle to improve our articles and ourselves as well. To my fellow Pubpips, thank you for making me feel the extremes of life. The food trips during meetings, trainings, seminars, and the likes have engraved a mark in my heart. To Nang Mara, Nong Daryl, Nong Herod, Frennie, Jecel and Rochelle, I know you will miss the Pub as much as I do. Yet I believe that as we decided to leave the Pub, we will always treasure the memories and friendships that we’ve established. I’ll always pray for each one of us. To the remaining Pubpips, I know that the Pub is in good hands. I’m praying that you will be able to continue the legacy and create another record next year. Always know that I may leave the Pub but I will always be behind your backs, supporting your every endeavor.
To the CJIP babies, especially to Edrea and Junfel, I just hope that you will keep up the dedication that you have to the Pub. Talking to people and transcribing it through words that could enlighten and inspire others is one of the best opportunities that this organization had given me. I’ve met people who gave me a breath of fresh air from my stressful academics. To my friends, Wianne, Daniel, Joni, Nica, Nixmar, Mika, Jent, Feb, Pau, Pam, I sincerely apologize for the time I couldn’t spend my vacant periods with you. Also, thank you for understanding me and helping me as well. To the Almighty God, You have planned my life so well that I feel so thankful to You once a pubpip
PAGE B6
B4 Augustinian the
Volume LXII • Number 5 May 29, 2017
features What in the World is “fishing” nowadays Kulyatan Marine Sanctuary – A haven for rich marine biodiversity
and crude signs to ward off errant fishermen during its initial years of operation but eventually, through the concerted efforts from barangay officials and local government units, grew into an eco-tourism spot serving not only as a tourist attraction but also as an area to maximize fish production.
MPA’s an answer According to Tacio (2011) in his article, “Fish Depletion, Marine Habitats Destruction in the Philippines,” every square kilometer of the Philippine coast is home to an average of 286 people. That’s one of the highest population density rates in coastal Asia, according to the Asian Development Bank. The issue on the trend of population over the past years and the lack of
b y DARYL S . SELERIO
I was sitting on a bamboo bench scribbling notes on my notepad when he arrived. He asked a lady in her 60’s for cup of coffee while he was still sopping wet in sea water. Then, he turned to me with a wide smile as his shoulders gave short involuntary jerks in response to the shiver that had been building up from an all-day worth of touring visitors through the rich marine biodiversity of the sanctuary. Issue on Fish Population As global human population increases, so does the demand for fish products.
photo credits • iloilo travel guide
United Nations reported that global fish stocks are in grave danger, as overfishing and environmental degradation is systematically depleting sources of marine biodiversity. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, in 2000, 72 percent of the world’s marine fish resources were either fully exploited or in decline. In addition, a report from the World Bank predicted that “without any change in fish consumption and no active human population management program, domestic demand for fish will reach 3.2 billion
kilograms by 2020,” thus, endangering the already dwindling fish population.
Marine Protected Area IUCN defines a Marine Protected Area (MPA) as a space in the ocean where human activities are more strictly regulated than the surrounding waters - similar to parks we have on land. These places are given special protections for significant natural or historic marine resources by local, territorial, native, or national authorities. According to MPAtlas, as reported by Yan (2016) in his article, “Philippines declares
Largest MPA,” the Philippines hosts approximately 1,557 MPAs – more than any other country in the Southeast Asia.
Kulyatan Marine Sanctuary Kulyatan Marine Sanctuary or Kulyatan Small Boracay, as what the locals fondly calls it before it was declared MPA last 2010, had been open to tourists, researchers, and nature lovers since 2013. It covers a total of 20,000 square meters in area and is located in Barangay Sinogbuhan on the outskirts of the town of San Joaquin. It only had a guard house
“Everybody is encouraged to support this kind of area so that the fishes that we enjoy seeing and eating today will be enjoyed by our children in future.” — mendoza sustainable fishing techniques, as reported by the World Fisheries (2006), merits viable answer to stop the total collapse of the fish population. “Marine Sanctuary serves as a ‘bodega’ [storehouse] for
different kinds of fishes where they are left to multiply and grow until they are ready to be harvested by fishermen in the area,” Mr. Jorge Mendoza, unit manager of the area, shared.
The Challenge of MPAs Sadly, many MPAs are plagued by a lack of funding. In fact according to Yan, just over 100 MPAs are properly administered. Many are negatively viewed by coastal people as deterrents to their ability to fish in the immediate vicinity of their homes. Mr. Mendoza confessed that plans to develop the site were hampered by the lack of budget until the coastal community took the initiative to amass some amount to cover the financial expenses to further the development of the area.
A Call to Protect Fish Population Uncontrolled practices coupled with overexploitation of marine natural resources put the neck of the next generation on the edge of the rope sooner than we ever thought unless we do something to address them. Establishing and sufficiently funding MPAs are one of the effective measures to undertake, to prevent the potential total collapse of fish population. “Everybody is encouraged to support this kind of area so that the fishes that we enjoy seeing and eating today will be enjoyed by our children in future,” Mr. Mendoza lamented in the heights of the one of the most salient concerns the world is “fishing” nowadays.
“Bata, Bata, Bakit Mo Ginawa?” Ang Anghel sa Kahil nga Panapton
b y ANDREA NICOLE C. PARCE
Ang kadulom nangin himpit nga lipod sa tuyo ni Red* samtang siya nag-aresgar nga mag lusot sa kudal sang balay sang mga Rodriguez. Ang iya giho ginatukaran lamang sang dutay nga huni sang mga agagangis. Ang kalinong amo ang iya abyan hasta sa gulpi lang niya nabatian ang mahinay nga tunog sang kabilya sa iya tangkugo. “Untat,” ang siling sang tingog. Ang dose ka tuig nga pamatan-on nakabalo sang iya sala sadtong gab-e. “Galing ano mahimo ko?” siling niya sa iya mahuluy-on nga tingog, “May ara ako manghod nga nagasalig sa akon kag sa dutay nga pagkaon nga gakakuha ko halin sa pagpangawat. Kon indi ko ni paghimuon, indi kami mabuhi.” Siya isa ka niwang kag masakiton nga pamatan-on, indi maglapaw sa lima ka dupa ang kataason, ugaling puno na sang pilas kag lagob sa iya bilog nga kalawasan. Kada aga si Red manglimos, kada gab-e siya mangawat—kag kada adlaw, siya gakadakpan.
Kon Kaaganhon Isa lamang si Red sa madamo nga bata nga ginakabig “batang hamog” nga nagalibot sa mga dalanon sang syudad sang Iloilo. Suno sa rekord sang Women and Children’s Desk sang Iloilo City Police Office, naglab-ot sa 113 ang mga menor de edad nga naghimo sang krimen halin Enero 2016 tubtob Peberero 2017. Dugang pa sini, sa 114 ka “Bahay Pagasa” nga ginpatindog kon tani sang mga Provincial Government kag highly-urbanized nga mga syudad sa idalom sang RA 9344
ukon Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act of 2006, may ara lamang 35 ka operational centers sa bilog nga pungsod nga nagahatag sang serbisyo para sa mga Children in Conflict with the Law (CICL). “Si nanay kag tatay nagbulagay sang otso anyos pa lang ko. Ginbilin kami ni nanay kay tatay galing sang nagligad nga tuig napatay siya. Ginbayaan niya man kami,” siling ni Red samtang tumalagsa nga naga duko. Ang House Bill 002 nag eksplekar kon ngaa man
“May ara ako manghod nga nagasalig sa akon kag sa dutay nga pagkaon nga gakakuha ko halin sa pagpangawat. Kon indi ko ni paghimuon, indi kami mabuhi.” — red dapat nga dalian ang pagpasa sang nasiling nga bill. “The massive influence of modern
communication has brought minors immense awareness of their surroundings.” Siling sang explanatory note sini. Apang suno sa Psychological Association of the Philippines, “The child or adolescent brain is still under development. Significant changes in brain anatomy and activity are still taking place in the prefrontal regions that govern impulse control, decision making and long-term planning, emotion regulation and evaluation of risks and rewards. These abilities, which are involved in criminal behavior, do not fully form until young adulthood, making young people especially vulnerable to engage in risky behaviors.” Ini isa ka dako nga tikang kon mapasar. Ang mga pareho bala kay Red ginakabig nga makasasala? Ukon isa lamang ka biktima?
Sa Tunga Sang Kagab-ihon “Ang una nga beses nga ako nagsulod sa pagpangawat kag pagpanghold-up amo sang Disyembre 2016,” saysay ni Red. “Ang utod ko grabe ang masakit kag wala nako kasayod sang himuon ko. Amo na nga isa ka gab-e nakit-an ko nalang akon kaugalingon nga nagapalipod sa dulom nga eskinita. Wala ko kabalo sang himuon ko, ginagaw ko sa babayi ang iya bag. Indi ko man tani gusto galing ginpilit ako sang sitwasyon ko nga himuon ini.” Si Red kag ang mga pareho man sa iya nga subong naga antus sa mga correctional facilities matapos mapilitan
sang mga sindikato ukon sang sitwasyon. Suno sa Philippine National Police, halin Hulyo hasta Agosto 2016, may ara 66 ka mga kabataan ang gingamit nga Drug Couriers sa mga sindikato. Kon ini nga mga kabataan ginagamit lamang, sila bala dapat kabigon nga kriminal ukon biktima man lamang?
Sa Palaabuton Ang Konstitusyon sa idalom sang Article 2 Section 13 naga kilala sang importansya sang kabataan sa pag umwad sang nasyon. Ini guin mandato agud magtib-ong ang kinamatarong sang mga kabataan paagi sa madamo nga international obligations nga iya ginsaad nga pagasundon tulad na lamang sang Beijing Rules nga nagadula sang kinahanglanon sang intervention sang juvenile justice system. Dugang pa sini, ang Beijing Rules, naghimo
sang tipan nga tanan nga mga pungsod nga nagpirma sini maga sugot nga indi dapat tama ka nubo ang edad sang bata nga pwede na mag-agi sa juvenile justice system. Para kay Red kag sa minilyon pa nga mga kapareho niya sa bilog nga kalibutan, madamo sang espesyal nga correctional facilities ang ginpatindog kag gin disenyo agod punggan ang mga CICL nga mag-agi sa mga proseso nga para lamang sa mga convicted sa ibabaw sang edad nga 18. Ini nga mga proseso ginadumilian nga ihatag sa mga kabataan tungod ini indi pa nila masarangan. Sa Pilipinas, ang RA 9344 or JJWA, amo ang naghimo sang mga Bahay Pag-asa, isa ka institusyon nga ginpatindog kag ginadumala sang mga Local Government Unit ukon mga accredited nga non-governmental organization nga magahatag sang short-term residential care sa mga CICL nga
Laragway sa ng USA Pub• Mara elaiza a. flores
naga edad 15 tubtob 17 ka tuig kag nagahulat sang disposisyon sang kaso ukon sang pagbaylo sang institusyon. “Untat,” ang siling sang tingog samtang siya amat-amat nga nagapalapit kay Red bitbit ang kabilya. Ang kabuhi ni Red nagbalik sa iya panulokan nga daw sa plaka nga nagsibo liwat kon diin siya dapat magsapol. Iya nadumdoman ang iya maluya nga utod, nagahulat, nagaisahanon kag naga-antus sang sakit, para sa dutay nga bulong nga hasta subong wala pa niya mabakal. “Isa pa ka hulag, sa presohan gid ang tupa mo.” Ang matig-a nga metal handa na agod siya igu-on sa bisan ano nga segundo. Si Red isa na lamang ka idog bag-o matagbong sa kutkot. Apang ang iya manghod sa ila gamay nga habong-habong wala guid sang dutay nga ideya kon diin na ang iya utod sa sining lubos nga kadulom.
The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin, Iloilo City, Philippines
www.usapub.net
B5
valediction
Eat, drink, and be merry Indulge in the city’s hidden German treasure
by NICOLE AILICE C. SERISOLA
Iloilo City has recently seen great progress when it comes to the food service industry. Mall expansions and modern new establishments have paved their way into the City of Love with fresh offers to the ever growing market. However, in one quaint corner in Jaro, an untouched portion of the district has remained impervious to the steadfast modernization occurring in its local environment and fellow establishments. Aptly named after the south-eastern region of Germany, Bavaria German Restaurant has been in the food service industry of Iloilo since 1997.
While other restaurants continue to change and innovate their menu, Bavaria has been sitting in the same inconspicuous spot for two decades since its foundation. Owned and operated by the Stummer family, Bavaria entices clienteles with their authentic German cuisine and striking array of local-brew and commercial beers, as well the ambiance of a traditional European tavern. Located at the discreet Seminario Street, near Jaro Plaza and Jaro Cathedral, Bavaria emanates the minimalistic facade of a historic old house with its old-fashioned and modest features but vaunts classic grandeur amongst its interiors. With its dim-lit atmosphere featuring the splendour of antique décor, glassware and vintage
china, plus a wall painting of King Ludwig II, Bavaria makes sure every corner articulates the rich culture of the Deutsch. With Bavaria exuding the cozy ambience to its patrons, the place makes a great spot to indulge in your eat-drinkand-be-merry mood with an assortment of what they have to offer. A menu that ranges from German specialties to the dynamic touches of other European nations, the establishment does serve you items worth your every peso. For a reasonable price, Hunter’s Schnitzel (Jagerschnitzel), one of Bavaria’s best sellers, without doubt proves its desirable reputation. With fragrant notes of rosemary and thyme, Hunter’s Schnitzel is served along complementarily
usa pub photos • allaine rose m. emnacen
with crisp French fries and mushroom gravy sauce. If you’ve never tasted a schnitzel before, Bavaria should be on your top list of places to dine – one bite and you’ll surely be a fan of the humble Deutsch classic. Another, Germany’s favourite comfort food, snack, meal, - you name it - is a must. You just don’t know Germany without knowing the bratwurst. One of the sausages often paired with a German pale lager Bratwurst from Bavaria is devastatingly good with yellow mustard and diced pan fried potatoes. Its side, the sauerkraut, also a German fan favourite, balances the firm meatiness of the sausage with its pleasantly sour (albeit not acidic) taste. If the traditional country staples - schnitzel and the bratwurst - can look like it can stand on its own as a meal or food pair, the Farmer’s Meatloaf (Leberkrasse) looks absolutely like a healthy breakfast. Vegetables, potatoes, and lettuce show up together with the meatloaf on this dish item’s plate, which is then topped with a fried egg. Truth be told though, if you always eat meatloaf (NOT THE CANNED ONES!) it’ll taste
similarly but a bit meatier albeit without the pasty residue or aftertaste. Bavaria’s take on the German goulasch soup – a food item not traditionally Deutsch, as it has Hungarian roots – is strong on tomatoes, paprika, and cumin, with subtle hints of coriander and thyme. A little akin to our chili con carne in taste, but meatier and sweeter, and definitely not spicy. A great heat warmer to cold weather, the goulasch might be priced a tad higher than the usual rate for soups; nevertheless, it should be one of the items you should get when dining at Bavaria’s. Now, if you fancy yourself a connoisseur of beer, Bavaria offers a wide variety either by the pint or by the liter in their own bar. Ja, a one-liter Oktoberfest beer mug all for yourself in a very German pub. Where else can you name a place that serves beer by this amount? Under their list of Massbiers, they have Radlermass, Dieselmass, and of course, Bavariamass – the prior two being sweeter than the latter. Bavaria is also a proud seller of the Oettinger beer brand – as a matter of fact, in here, you will always find an Oettinger, unlike
other pubs in Iloilo. For those unable to drink beer, Bavaria serves their house specialty – Spezi, which is a mix of local sodas – if you’re keen enough, you might just taste the lemonlime flavor and touches of tea. Overall, despite the considerably significant amount of lag time for orders to arrive, Bavaria does not leave you hanging. A place worth dining, Bavaria can surely give you great value not only for your meal, but for your time and patronage as well. Good food, reasonable prices, and an environment rich in German culture. An establishment great for foodies and photographers or even just the ordinary individual wanting to go to places far and wide Bavaria is a focus of interest - for food, of drink, and merriment. From their kitchen, to their striking dining area, to the dimlit narrow receiving hallway with a wild boar rug on their right wall and an intricately detailed Old World map on the left - their old oak door patiently waits for a guest, an ode and testament to twenty years’ time, with a sign hanging upfront with the word Wilkommen, a Deutsch word for Welcome.
Coffee on Wheels Native coffee simmered and ready in any point of the city
Before the moving café came into life, Café Nativa was just a small coffee shop, almost camouflaging with the other business shops situated along Jaro district’s Tabuc Suba, if not for its pop of red and humongous letters plastered outside the shop. Café Nativa is the brainchild of Dante Infante, who enrolled in a fine arts school in Bacolod, then became a marine transportation student and an animation
student. His inclination towards the arts is certainly evident in his rare coffee shop concept, inspired by a number of coffee shops around the world with exclusive innovations that put these cafés in the spotlight. The walls of the cramped yet home-y roadside coffee shop, which was opened to the public last November 2016, are adorned by his framed carved works and paintings. There are also sand art tables for customers to entertain themselves with, a mood board with notes and sketches of those who spent some time there, beanbags and vintage couches to sit on while sipping the café’s concoctions and a wide window overlooking the busy roads.
he is always on the safe side. “Wala man kami nakulbaan kung mabungguan kami kay gapahigad-higad man kami. Kung traffic, ara man lang kami sa kilid kalsada.” Couple that with the unbearable heat and the strenuous roaming during the afternoons. When asked if reprimands from traffic enforcers are occasionally encountered, he answered with a laugh and revealed that even the men in blue are amused of the moving café. Their bestsellers include the Hot Native Coffee which is their house specialty, Hot Choco, Iced Café Latte, and Iced Cappucino. And the sand art tables cause some customers to come back, according to Bacuado.
TO HITTING THE ROAD
ONE STREET AT A TIME
One of the baristas, Arnel Bacuado, shared the challenges of roving around the city to sell native coffee. Aware of the dangerous fast pace of the city highways, he sees to it that
“We cannot please everybody but we try to please as many as possible,” shared Infante on their guiding force in serving their customers. The café grows through the demands
and suggestions of its customers, as well as keeping up with the trends in the coffee-making business. They try to be more creative with their approach to the public, and prefer not to mind the staggering competition
among the city’s coffee shops. Although they are operating for only a few months, the positive feedback from the public fuels them to carry on brewing native coffee beans and serving these wherever they may go.
To my pub mates: Mara, Herod, Armie, Jecel, and Rochelle who would have to leave the pub, for good, alongside me, good luck to us as we face the next chapters of our lives as “lesser humans”. To the pubpips, thank you for being a part of my college journey. You just don’t know how much I thank God for giving
me an opportunity to meet such brilliant and witty men and women like you guys. Good luck and we will be happy to entrust to you the “keys” of the pub for we know it will be in good hands. To my USA Troubadours family especially to our seniors who had mentored us to be the best singers and performers we could be, thank you so much.
Of course, I will also take this opportunity to express my gratitude to our ever humble, dedicated, and talented Director, Sir Arne Lubasan. Your expertise in the field of Music and the fatherhood aura are the reasons why I always count as a blessing to me meeting you. As I near the end of my journey as a college student, I
began to realize how I’ve become into someone not even in my wildest dream I could be. To my brothers and sisters from my SIGMA CHI Fraternity and MU SIGMA PHI Sorority families, thank you for the little time we spent together as “residents”. Special thanks to our Academic Advisers Engr. Reynaldo Asuncion and Dr.
Belinda Valaquio and to our Non-Academic Advisers Brod Art Ryan Postolero and Sis Elizabeth Denilla for guiding and helping us in the activities and programs of our organization. Time flies so fast, indeed. Every first in the University feels like it happened yesterday. And now it’s just time to bid farewell. See you around.
b y e r i k a d an ie l l e m. pe pito
Going home after a school day, a coffee shop along Esplanade caught my eye with passersby raving on its products and a distinctive feature of it – it is a portable café on a black cart with a sand art table on top of it. Now that type of coffee is one for the books. Ilonggos can now have an instant kick of caffeine with Café Nativa. This moving cafe –a first of its kind here in the city – treats the taste buds of
the University of San Agustin or the Esplanade. It then strolls to the nightlife capital of the city, Smallville Complex, and is brewing usually until before midnight, depends on the number of swarming customers.
“We cannot please everybody but we try to please as many as possible.” — infante
FROM THE ROADSIDE
shop
coffee enthusiasts with brewed native coffee and other caffeinebased blends. Everyday on late afternoons, the moving café is usually nestled within the footpaths of the Diversion Road, of keys
FROM PAGE B3
thank you for understanding the stubborn man that I had become. To Rj, thank you for always backing me up on almost everything. I am so grateful for having known a blessing in your guise whom I could trust and lean on especially during stressful and busy days.
usa pub photos • edrea claire g. gregore
B6 Augustinian the
Volume LXII • Number 5 May 29, 2017
campus life
dave garin
Nicole joyce Gepilanggo
claire panizal
behind the limelight
fedelene cawagas
Let’s take a peek on the life of these graduates that made them excel in their respective fields
by EDWARD DOMINIC E. EMILIO, RJ JUNSAY, ARMIE THERESE C. P ENUELA and A T HENA GABRIELLA E . JULABAR
College was never easy. However, students took the callenge to make their college experiences meaningful. And these set of students were brve enough to not only excel in their own respective courses but also in the field of work their hearts belong to. dave garin, coc Ever since he was elected as the President of the University of San Agustin Student Council (USASC) a year ago, he never let a day pass without finding a way to serve his fellow Augustinians. Service is his passion, his love at first sight. “I want to uplift and touch the lives of other people,” the Senior Marketing Management major Garin said. “People usually think of service as donation. I wanted to inspire, I wanted to be involved. I wanted my brand of service to the students to be about dedication and cooperation.” Before becoming the head of the Augustinian student body, Garin was already an exemplary student, as passionate on his academics as he was to his being a servant-leader. A studious and competitive perfectionist, Garin disclosed that he set very high standards for himself before becoming the President that we know now. Aside from the quintessential position of USASC President, Garin is also a former president of Leo Club and a former Vice President of the Junior Institute of Managers and Accountants. As a former student of Medical Laboratory Science before venturing forth into the business world, he has also been isang anino
FRO M PAGE b2
sariwang kamatis. Dumaan din ang mga araw na unti-unti rin akong nagiging kumportable sa loob ng pub. Mas lalo ko pang nakilala ang mga kapwa ko miyembro. Iba-iba ang ugali ng bawat isa. Merong madaldal, maingay, makulit at meron ding tahimik. Pero ganoon pa man ay hindi ito hadlang upang kami’y maging isang matatag na pamilya sa loob ng pub na naging pangalawang tahanan na namin. Natuto din akong hatiin ang aking oras sa akademya at sa pub kahit merong mga pagkakataong mahirap na itong ibalanse. Hindi biro ang maging isang miyembro ng pub. Kasabay ng pagpatak ng tinta ang pagpatak ng pawis
a former officer of the Epsilon Chapter. Though already armed with the academic knowledge and leadership experience as he already held several leadership positions from various organizations before, Garin admitted that being a student leader is no walk in the park. “Being an officer is not a joke. You have to be dedicated and passionate because if a thing is not your passion, you would be tired of it,” he said. Now that he has come to the winter of his term, Garin has his own words to say to his constituents. “Dear Augustinians, thank you for your active participation. I hope you have learned about the Augustinian advocacies and the Augustinian values, and I hope I have inculcated in you the idea that we are all Augustinians. I thank you, your parents, the administration, and our advisers. Continue to shine and be a catalyst for change in your community.”
nicole Gepilanggo, cot Walking through the hallway of Blanco Hall, you might see her smiling talking with professors or with her common friends or you might even be familiar with her as she transforms into a fierce lady makabuo lang ng isang obra na naging salamin na ng bawat Agustino. Hindi ito magiging matagumpay kung hindi dahil sa pagtutulungan ng mga taong ibinigay ang buong puso nila para dito. Ika nga nila, hindi makakalipad ang ibon kapag isa lang ang pakpak nito. Sa aking paglabas sa pintuan ng tahanang minahal ko na ay baon ko ang mga ala-ala at aral na hinding-hindi ko makakalimutan. Salamat USA Pub sa pagtitiwala at sa paghubog ng aking kakayahan at ng aking buong pagkatao. Alam kong kahit saang landas man tayo itulak ng ating tadhana, ang pagmamahal natin sa pamamahayag ay nakatanim na sa ating puso at hindi kayang pitasin nino man.
conquering the dance floor. Spending five rough years in the College of Technology (COT), not only focusing on her academics but also excelling in other extracurricular activities, Nicole Joyce Gepilanggo is one of the toughest Tekno students that you would ever meet. Behind her graceful movements and flawless routines during the National PRISAA Dance Sports (Latin Category) in 2015 where she and her partner brought the name of the University in the limelight of success as they won first place, a leader is within her. She became the president of the Epsilon Alpha Chi Organization, the mother organization of COT in 2015 and now the outgoing president of the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers – Iloilo Chapter. “The hardship that I have encountered in my five year stay here in the University is managing my time and trying to balance acads and extracurricular [activities]. Dance is life but Acads is lifer kumbaga. Motivation, perseverance and of course prayers are the key I guess. I always instill in my mind that amidst all the extra-curricular activities that I participate in, I still need to keep track on my acads. Another thing which also helped me is the guidance from my parents. They really pushed me to my limits that made me who I am now. Lastly, guidance of course from God who by all means will always be there for me through thick and thin,” adding,
“I’ve learned a lot actually in the University. Being compassionate is one, another is devotion and last is camaraderie. Cheers to us but always keep going because there’s another journey waiting for us,” Gepilanggo shared.
picture perfect
To the Pubpip who has been my sister for the past four years and is popularly known as the Pub tita, Nang Ayah, thank you for the free rides, movie dates, hairstyling sessions, and for letting me invade your house. To Nong Joel, thank you for those little chats about life and also for encouraging me to hone my abilities in writing. To Nang Julienne, thank you for uplifting me whenever I am in doubt. To Nang Steph, thank you for letting me realize that I must value the people who nurtured me for 21 years. To Bobby, thank you for trusting me with your personal issues, and for always being my savior whenever I need one. To Nong Resty, Nong Wilhelm and Wilkienson, you were the
FROM PAGE B3
your knowledge in photography and writing, and for being a role model. To the former moderators of the USA Publications, Ms. Marites Cornell, Ms. Josefa Maria Castro, Mr. Jefferson Magbanua, and Mrs. May Anne Jaro, thank you for sharing your time and expertise with us, and also for guiding us to improve our skills. To Engr. Ray Adrian Macalalag, a fellow Pubpip who became a moderator, thank you for showing me the importance of practice and dedication in perfecting one’s craft, and also for your unending love for the Pub, which lifted us and helped us in bringing back its glory.
claire panizal, clase The nascence of her hankering to become a diplomat was from the time she entered the University of San Agustin having only two expectations, one is prefiguring the University to hone her as a well-equipped Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service student and another is to prepare her in facing the realities of life. Claire Panizal is one of the toughest graduating students of the College of Liberal Arts, Science and Education you could ever know. Her perseverance over the years proved her determination to go beyond the limits of an ordinary college life. Since then, this gogetter senior had been working tenaciously towards her aspiration, though college life to her is pretty much of a jocund and spine-chilling roller coaster ride, having extremely high and low times. “College life has been a worthy learning experience for me. I can say that academically, I did well and that I got generally good grades which I worked hard for. Of course, getting good grades matter but it is not all of it. For me, it is just a bonus – what’s important are true understanding and education I’ve
earned,” she expressed. Hence, she had good grades, became an officer of the Arts and Sciences Student Council and the Junior Diplomats Corps, and had her internship program at the Philippine Consulate General in Dubai and Northern Emirates, which is for her was the most significant event in her college life. However, these would be of no avail if devoid of challenges such as; beating a deadline for an output, dealing with strict professors, and having a great deal of bigger challenges.
fedelene cawagas, champ Her stares piercing your soul, her blasting voice echoed through the entire hall with words set to fire like bullets in the air, her conviction as hard as stone and her presence commanding attention. She is a woman who exudes strength and influence. She is Fedelene Joy Cawagas, commonly called “Lenlen” and “Fedelina” by her family and friends. She is indeed an Augustinian pride who brought the University’s name to the national stage of the Private Schools Association (PRISAA). Wearing her white internship uniform and clutching her thick Histopathology book, it’s quite a feat to pick Fed out from among the throng of medical technology students here in the University. She even defined herself as “the kind of student that would sit in the Pubpips who made me laugh uncontrollably. To Armie, Jecel and Rochelle, learn to study smart and enjoy your youth. To the young leaders of the Pub for this school year, RJ and Frennie, I applaud you for your great efforts in leading the organization. To the Photography Team, Clyde, Allaine and Edrea, keep up the excellent work and always believe in yourselves. To Erika, continue with what you have started, I know you can do it. To the CJIP babies, I hope that you will uphold the Pub’s legacy as the years go by. To all of the Pubpips, thank you for making my college life worth remembering. I indeed found good friends, well, more like a family.
second row in class and look at the teacher straight in the eye during discussions”. Despite other people considering her as an I-live-for-studying kind of person, she admits that there is something more to her than just acing quizzes and passing exams with flying colors. According to her, college responsibilities were made more thrilling when she was elected to be the president of her most favorite section yet being appointed as class president opened up a fresh new batch of challenges for her. She even admitted that most of the time she ends up getting tired yet satisfied as well. Family, it was the first word Fed proudly uttered when asked who her motivations are. She considers her family as her “vitamins”, her sole “driving force, prayer army, and the very reason why she strives to do well and aim high”. As her college journey is about to end, Fedelyn Joy Cawagas is ready to venture out into another phase of her life that will test her self-sufficiency and resilience. She is a testament that to be a champion is not about winning or losing, it’s about every day hard work and thriving on a challenge. Its life experiences sprinkled with burning passion that molds us into fascinating beings. College gets better if you played the game well, fair and sound. Would you like to be one of them? once a pubpip
FROM PAGE b 3
for giving me such a wonderful journey in the Pub. This is not actually goodbye because I’m sure I’ll still see the Pubpips around. Despite my Saturday and late night dates with Katzung and Lippincott, I’ll never forget to read your amazing articles. Don’t worry, you can now add me to the list of people who can’t wait to see your outputs ready to be grabbed off the shelf at the Alumni. I’m not taking a different path, but I’ll just continue my journey towards my dreams. I say this once and for all. I am Armie Therese Penuela and my love for the written words shall never ever perish!
The Official Student Newspaper of the University of San Agustin, Iloilo City, Philippines
www.usapub.net
B7
SPEcTAcLE Still the tale as Old as time A Movie Review on The Beauty and The Beast
by TimoThy james v. saria
b y j u nFe l G . s o T el o
An enchanting, beautifully crafted novel that explores a mystery only heaven can unfold.
Twenty-six years later, despite knowing what would happen in the end, it still feels just like the first time. Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is director Bill Condon’s live–action version of the 1991 classic and the first animated feature to win an Oscar nomination for Best Picture. This year’s version of the legend, although saying that it is something brand-new would be wide of the mark, delivers hope for the world today – that is change through all kinds of diversity. Starring Emma Watson and Dan Stevens as the beauty and the beast, respectively, feeds on the nostalgia audiences have for the 1991 animated feature. Given the star-studded castturned-household items, Emma balances and flawlessly pulls-off a charming and intelligent Belle while taking us aback with her winsome vocal prowess. Indeed, her progressive version makes the perfect Belle; after all, she’s Hermione Granger (wink). To the benefit of those who lived under a rock, the story is set in a small village in France, and tells the tale of Belle who lives a provincial life with her father Maurice (Kevin Kline).
Everyone in her place finds her “funny” in a peculiar way. Even more unusual, she does not swoon over manly Gaston’s (Luke Evans) superficiality. Throughout the movie, she rebels against the expectations of women in her village – but the way Belle rebukes these norms and establishes her own path is inspiring. As her father leaves town for work, he stumbles upon a garden of a cursed castle and later becomes a prisoner of the Beast after picking a rose. Belle is able to find her father and takes his place as the Beast’s life-long captive. The film follows Belle and the Beast as they bring to life an avant-garde love story.
The film was surprisingly long, running a hefty 129 minutes to the original’s 84. For the most part, this Disney film feels more heartfelt than calculated, you succumb to a delightful experience that splits the unfathomable to something that is romantic yet powerful, with a statement (thanks to the feminist upgrade). Albeit the unforeseen innovation, the film, with some of its snooze-worthy tunes was still dragging in some point. Succinctly, the new song, “Evermore,” is the perfect bathroom break. Of all the new elements, Disney’s first openly gay character has also been a compelling tribute. To put it into
baka bukas
b y Zo e G w y ne T h j . Tan
“one of the scariest things about coming out is finding out if the ones you love will stay after.” The (Jasmine
ShOOk
99/100
story follows Alex Curtis-Smith), a
the fiVe PeoPle you Meet in heaVen
twenty-three year old out lesbian from the city of Manila, who is open about her sexuality to most people and her friends except for her best friend Jess (Louise delos Reyes), whom she has secretly been in love with ever since they were kids. There is a great
symbolization in the film that encapsulates the viewer’s attention from the moment it starts; the story begins with an end of a relationship. Alex is going through a difficult breakup from her then girlfriend Kate. This situation pushes Alex to her coming out to Jess, whom she has
co-star Audra Mcdonald’s words: “there’s all kinds of diversity within the world and we have it in this film. In the end, this film is about seeing past anyone’s surface and looking on the inside.” Whether it’s 1991 or 2017, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast remains an epitome of courage and strength amidst worlds of prejudice and social injustices, a jewel polished for a more powerful, evoking interest that is defiance. And Belle’s choices are something we have yet to internalize. As this film reminds us of the glory days in the past, it calls on to look at a situation that is as old as time by doing what is right fearlessly, and with conviction.
a complicated relationship with. When Jess discovers the truth about Alex’s sexuality, they are forced to confront the feelings that they have for each other. “Baka Bukas” has gone to where other films have not dared to go; Lee’s goal was to create a representation of the LGBT community that would go way beyond the portrayals of what are shown in the mainstream media of the country. It is an alluring film with great visuals and an even magnificent soundtrack that depicts lesbian relationships as something tender and normal; that there may also be a beautiful bond and love between two people of the same sex. It leaves you wondering at the end of the day, whether you should take that chance or not. Have you ever wondered what would happen if you fell in love with your best friend? by: romari charlZ F. diaZ
by: romari charlZ F. diaZ
Eddie is a grizzled war veteran who feels trapped in a meaningless life of fixing rides at a seaside amusement park. As the park has changed over the years — from the Loop-the-Loop to the Pipeline Plunge — so, too, has Eddie, from optimistic youth to embittered old age. His days are a dull routine of work, loneliness, and regret. Then, on his 83rd birthday, Eddie dies in a tragic accident, trying to save a little girl from a falling cart. With his final breath, he feels two small hands in his — and then nothing. He awakens in the afterlife, where he learns that heaven is not a lush Garden of Eden, but a place where your earthly life is explained to you by five people who were in it. These people may have been loved ones or distant strangers, yet each of them changed your path forever. One by one, Eddie’s five people illuminate the unseen connections in his earthly life. As the story builds to its stunning conclusion, Eddie desperately seeks redemption in the still-unknown last act of his life: Was it a heroic success or a devastating failure? The answer, which comes from the most unlikely of sources, is as inspirational as a glimpse of heaven itself. “No story sits by itself. Sometimes stories meet at corners and sometimes they cover one another completely, like stones beneath a river.” This quote, I copied from the first part of the book, signifies its correlation with the new generation. It relates the happenings nowadays where people get divided according to class, wealth or fame. We forget that we are all one. Equality is neglected and freedom is an option. The book reminds us about the importance of love and interconnections. We are all souls in search of something and we know that we come from one Creator, so why do we separate ourselves from others? Why do we build barriers, why do we label? Love and interconnections are important because it would form our identity as human beings. It would make us worthy of being called a part of the human race.
the graVeyard book by jo h n e ro a . a G o s
Nobody owns ghosts do.
him,
but
A mysterious character known only as “the man Jack” sneaks into a family home and kills mum, dad and older sister. When he reaches the nursery, however, the family’s twoyear-old son is missing, having scooted out mischievously into the night. The man Jack, whose silence and hunting skills seem not quite of this world, follows the scent of the boy to a nearby disused graveyard. This is the story of Bod Owens (short for Nobody Owens) who finds solace and safety with the inhabitants of the local graveyard, who grant him some of the privileges and powers of the dead—he can fade and dreamwalk, for instance, but still needs to eat and breathe. Episodic chapters tell miniature gems of stories tracing Bod’s growth from a spoiled boy who runs away with the ghouls to a young man for whom the metaphor of setting out into the world becomes achingly real. The novel aims at the eight to 11 year old audience, but the gruesome murder descriptions in the first chapter may push the age up. The story has been built upon the foundations of a short story by Gaiman, published in his anthology M for Magic, with ghosts taking the place of the animals in a typical Gaiman twist. It has to be said that the book was a good page turner, and the story flowed well with recognizable Gaiman humor and a touch of the macabre, however not as dark as Coraline. There is a slightly hollow feel left after reading it though, possibly due to a loose end situation. It would be nice to see sequels or even some spin off books, continuing the story of the lives of several of the characters. This should not however be seen as a negative point, indeed it is quite the opposite. Gaiman leaves the reader with the words ‘...and then?’ lingering on their lips, desperate to know more, to continue following the lives of the characters that they have grown to love. The end of the novel is exciting and has a twist that this reader did not see coming. It won the Carnegie medal this year for children’s fiction, and this novel deserved to win. The writing style, though easy enough for children, is very descriptive and distinctive. Wistful, witty, wise and creepy, Gaiman’s riff on Kipling’s Mowgli stories never falters, from the truly spine-tingling opening, in which a toddler accidentally escapes his family’s murderer to the melancholic, life-affirming ending. Childhood fears take solid shape in the nurseryrhyme–inspired villains, while heroism is its own, often bitter, reward. Closer in tone to American Gods than to Coraline, but permeated with Bod’s innocence, this needs to be read by anyone who is, or has ever been, a child.
B8 Augustinian the
Volume LXII • Number 5 May 29, 2017
panorama
OUT OF THE ORDINARY by MARA ELAI Z A A . FLORES
There you were, running through the crowded corridors of Blanco, hoping to beat the clock before your attendance junkie teacher calls out your name. We are constantly bombarded with deadlines that we sometimes tend to forget the little things around us. We would mostly miss that masterpiece of the sun as it shines through the pillars of the buildings. Those uncanny patterns of leafless branches, artsy angles of the curved steel bars on the canopy and the autumn-ish vibes of the withered leaves laying on the concrete alley are some of the slurred charm of the campus. Take a minute to look around as you carry on with your daily grind, you might catch yourself grasping for you phone for that Instagram-worthy shot. USA PUB PHOTOs • ma ra elaiza a. flores and EDREA CLAIRE G. GREGORE