The Varsitarian P.Y. 2019-2020 Issue 01

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VOLUME XCI / NO. 1 September 7, 2019 THE OFFICIAL STUDENT PUBLICATION OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SANTO TOMAS Manila, Philippines

JOYFUL RITE OF PASSAGE. Some 10,000 college students enter the Arch of the Centuries during the traditional Thomasian Welcome Walk. PHOTO BY JEAN GILBERT T. GO

UST POPULATION STAYS AT 40,000

By Ahmed Khan H. Cayongcat

THE UNIVERSITY’S total population decreased by 2.4 percent but remained at the 40,000 mark, as its colleges accepted the second batch of senior high school (SHS) graduates in academic year 2019-2020.

V-Special Reports

Thomasians oppose ‘militarization’ of schools

By Klyra V. Orbien THOMASIANS slammed the plan of the Department of the Interior and Local Governance (DILG) and Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa to beef up police and military presence in universities to mitigate “communist recruitment.”

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año also wants to reinstate the Anti-Subversion Law, following a public hearing headed by Dela Rosa on the concerns of parents over the alleged disappearence of university students believed to have been recruited by groups linked to communist rebels.

Año cited Executive Order (EO) 70, which formed the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NATF-ELCAC) that “invokes police presence in schools.”

Robert Dominic Gonzales, Central Student Council (CSC) president, denounced the proposal and said leftist groups should not be labelled as affiliated with the New Peoples’ Army (NPA).

“They are called leftist groups be-

“Police presence in the University will act as an extended arm of the government inside campuses to suppress dissent and wrongfully tag progressive students and organizations as terrorist forms.”

RABIN BOTE, Student Organizations Coordinating Council Secretary

cause they have leftist principles not necessarily part of the NPA…[The government] is doing this for their own agenda, not to protect the people,” Gonzales told the Varsitarian.

Gonzales said no militarization would take place in the University.

He vowed to ensure the safety of student activists within the campus.

“I’ve consulted with several administrators, our campus is safe, our campus doesn’t need any military men, there are no instances of violence inside our campus, wala namang threats inside the campus...

We really don’t need any militarization inside,” he said.

‘Militarization’PAGE 5

Daet Bishop Rex Andrew Alarcon delivers his homily during the Misa de Apertura last Aug. 1.

PHOTO BY M.J.F. UY

UST’s population went down to 40,375 students from last academic year’s 41,385 students, records from the Office of the Registrar showed.

Secretary General Fr. Jesus Miranda Jr, OP, said the slight decrease was still due to the K to 12 transition. Some colleges did not recruit freshmen in academic year 2016-2017 when Grades 11 and 12 of senior high school became mandatory.

The total number of first-year students saw a 6-percent decrease to 16,767 students, from last year’s 17,745 enrollees.

The Graduate School welcomed the most number of freshmen with 1,371 students.

The Faculty of Engineering and

Faculty of Arts and Letters followed with 1,200 and 1,156 freshmen, respectively.

Meanwhile, the Faculty of Canon Law had the least number of freshmen for the third straight year, with 30 students.

The College of Rehabilitation Science will not have a graduating batch next year due to the effects of the transition.

Last year, UST’s population saw a 5,019 increase despite the entry of the first batch of SHS graduates.

The K to 12 program added two years of senior high school, which caused a decrease in the number of college freshmen in 2016.

Enrollment is expected to go back to normal in 2021.

‘Unite in faith, work for social good’ BISHOP Rex Andrew Alarcon of Daet, Camarines Norte urged Thomasians to build a Catholic culture and be united in the Christian faith amid growing diversity in society in the annual Misa de Apertura

last Aug. 1.

Alarcon, incoming chairman of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission on Youth, urged UST administrators and faculty to allow themselves to encounter Christian wisdom as well as the “culture of the young” in pursuing their educational mission.

“Difference in color and culture is more pronounced [nowadays]…causing distraction, confusion, complexity and uncertainty, but as we recognize these, may we find hope in the possibility of working together,” Alarcon said. Unite in faith PAGE 5

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NEWS

The Varsitarian

EDITOR: JOHN EZEKIEL J. HIRRO

SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

Students can now borrow up to 15 books from UST library THE UST Miguel de Benavides Library has relaxed its circulation policy, allowing students to check out as many as 15 books at a time starting Aug. 16.

Ma. Cecilia Lobo, chief librarian, said the new policy was in response to clamor from students and faculty members.

“We decided based on the demand…of the faculty members who were asking why only six or 10 [books] were allowed to be borrowed at once. The students were asking as well, so [we decided to have the new policy] so we can also utilize the resources of the library,” she told the Varsitarian.

Administrative officials, members of the Dominican community and faculty members are now allowed to borrow a maximum of five newly acquired books for a week, which can be renewed for an additional week. They can also borrow up to 20 circulation books for a week, which can be renewed for a threeweek period if the items have not yet been reserved.

Graduate School, Civil Law and Medicine students are allowed to borrow five new acquisitions for three days, with a three-day extension, and 15 circulation books for a week that can be renewed for a three-week period.

Undergraduate and high school students are allowed to borrow three

newly acquired books for three days, which can be renewed for an additional three days, and a maximum of 10 circulation books for five days, which can be renewed for a 15-day period.

Support staff can borrow up to three newly acquired books for a period of two days, which can be renewed for another two days, and a maximum of 10 circulation books for two days, which can be renewed for another six days.

Statistics from the library showed a decrease in the total number of books borrowed, from 84,520 books in Academic Year 2017-2018, to 71,856 books in Academic Year 20182019.

The Faculty of Arts and Letters had the most number of books borrowed last academic year, at 14,954 books, followed by the Senior High School and the Graduate School with 6,342 and 6,039 books, respectively.

Lobo said the library received good feedback from faculty members because of the new policy, and was expecting the same from students.

“The faculty members and students who are doing research will most likely benefit from the new policy since they can now borrow more books,” she said. CHARM RYANNE C. MAGPALI AND RAIMEE ROSE L. ARUGAY WITH REPORTS FROM AHMED KHAN CAYONGCAT

Dominican leads new batch of ‘V’ editors THE VARSITARIAN, the official student publication of the University, will be led by its first-ever Dominican editor on its 91st year.

Eugene Dominic Aboy, OP, from the Ecclesiastical Faculties, will take the helm as the publication’s editor in chief.

Former circle writer Katrina Gonzales is the new associate editor, while Information Technology sophomore John Ezekiel Hirro was appointed concurrent News and Online editor.

Second-year Journalism student Faith Yuen Wei Ragasa was named new Sports Editor.

Jiselle Anne Casucian, a communication arts sophomore, will handle the Features and Circle sections as editor.

Joselle Czarina de la Cruz from the UST Graduate School remains editor of the Filipino section. She was also named editor of the Witness (religion) section.

Advertising seniors Mary Jazmin Tabuena and Jury Salaya were appointed chief photographer and art director, respectively.

The News section is composed of Medical technology sophomore Ahmed Khan Cayongcat and second-year journalism students Charm Magpali and Camille Abiel Torres.

Faculty of Arts and Letters sophomores Malic Cotongan (history) and Rommel Bong Fuertes (journalism) were named Sports writers.

Second-year political science student Klyra Orbien will write for the Special Reports section.

Ma. Jasmine Trisha Nepomuceno, a music theater major, and Asian Studies sophomore Neil Joshua Servallos are this year’s writers for the Features section.

Economics sophomore Leigh Anne Dispo will write for the Literary section.

Second-year journalism students Ma. Alena Castillo and Mariel Celine Serquiña are this year’s Witness writers.

Jade Veronique Yap, another journalism sophomore, will write for the Science and Technology section.

Nolene Beatrice Crucillo of the College of Tourism and Hospitality Management and journalism major Neil Paolo Gonzales will write for the Circle section.

This year’s artists are Mariane Jane Cadiz from Commerce; Alisa Joy del Mundo, Catherine Paulene Umali and Edward Jefferson Uy from the College of Fine Arts and Design; and Gwyneth Fiona Luga from Artlets.

Sophomores Nadine Anne Deang (communication arts), Jean Gilbert Go (food technology), Renzelle Shayne Picar (advertising arts), Bianca Jolene Redondo (marketing management), Arianne Maye Viri (medical technology), and Torres, along with civil engineering freshman Marvin John Uy comprise the Photography section.

Journalism sophomore Jessica Asprer was named editorial assistant.

Joselito Zulueta, Philippine Daily Inquirer Arts and Books editor, and Journalism program head Felipe Salvosa II remain the V’s adviser and assistant publications adviser, respectively.

To qualify for the Varsitarian, the staff underwent a three-level selection process consisting of two examinations, a panel interview and other activities.

Lawyer Eldric Paul Peredo, former Varsitarian editor in chief, led this year’s selection committee.

Members of the committee included former Varsitarian editor in chief Christian Esguerra of the UST journalism program and ABS-CBN, Center for Creative Writing and Literary Studies Director Cristina Pantoja-Hidalgo, Palanca awardee Carlomar Arcangel Daoana, former Varsitarian associate editor, and Prof. Joyce Arriola, Director of the UST Research Center for Culture, Arts and Humanities. JOHN EZEKIEL HIRRO

The 22-storey tall Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, O.P. Building stands along España boulevard. PHOTO BY M.J.F. UY

New building welcomes 5,531 SHS students

By Charm Ryanne C. Magpali THE UNIVERSITY officially opened the doors of the new Senior High School (SHS) building to 3,531 Grade 11 students at the start of Academic Year 2019-2020.

The Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, O.P. Building, named after the patron of the UST Senior High School, stands 22 storeys tall — the highest among UST buildings.

“The learning environment, the faculty, pedagogical innovations and Thomasian culture [all in the new building will] contribute not [only] to the enrollment numbers but [also] to the meaningful stay of students in UST,” Asst. Prof. Mary Erika Bolaños, SHS principal, told the Varsitarian.

The building, which cost an estimated P2 billion according to UST Rector Fr. Herminio Dagohoy, O.P., has a lobby, a cafeteria on the 5th floor, and classrooms on the 10th to 14th floors.

The 10th to 14th floors each contain at least 16 smart classrooms as well as an organization room, a thesis or consultation room and a guidance counselors’ office.

The SHS has introduced the “Wipe Out Waste” or WOW Project to promote a zero-waste environment

through the reduction of the use of plastics and containers.

Other facilities like a two-storey library, chapel, gym, auditorium, science (biology, chemistry, physics and physiology-anatomy) and computer laboratories are still under construction. A footbridge that will link the Frassati building to the main campus is also in the works.

The Blessed Buenaventura Garcia Paredes, O.P. Building, which housed Grade 11 students, is now occupied by the Grade 12 students who were previously dispersed to different college buildings.

Growing pains Maxine Rose Gonzales, a student from the Accountancy and Business Management (ABM) strand, said her experience in the building so far had been “fun yet a little bit exhausting.”

“In the classroom, the atmosphere is different from the ones I’ve stayed in before, [and] since the chairs and tables are colorful [and] can be rearranged to make a circle, group activities [are made] easier and more collaborative,” she said.

Gonzales said the exhausting part was the long queues at the elevators in the morning and during breaks.

Alexandra Alcazar, a Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) stu-

dent, said it was very difficult to go to the building as the overpass that would connect the Frassati building to the main campus was still under construction.

The ongoing constructions on the Frassati building are another concern. “[N]asa taas lang namin ‘yung construction kaya nawawala po kami sa focus and pati yung mga [professors] nahihirapan magdiscuss,” Lyana Salazar, a Grade 11 student from the Health Allied strand, told the Varsitarian.

However, a Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics student told the Varsitarian that despite the new building being situated outside the walls of the University and still undergoing construction, she feels safe within it. “[N]apakaraming guards inside and outside the building, and [they are also] strict sa pagsuot ng I.D. at sa paglabas ng [students sa] building,” Melody Castro said.

The Frassati building is the first UST building to be erected outside the walls of the Manila campus since the end of World War 2.

The building’s construction began on October 2017. It is expected to be completed in December this year or early 2020.

Thomasians land in top 4 of eng’g boards A THOMASIAN placed third in the August-September licensure examinations for electrical engineers, while the University was third among the top-performing schools.

Derrick Munar Ramos led the new batch of Thomasian electrical engineers with a 91.85-percent score.

UST recorded a 97.92-percent passing rate with 94 of 96 examinees making the cut.

Last year, UST was the top-performing school with all 73 takers acing the test.

Mikhael Glen Lataza of University of San Carlos topped this year’s exams with a 92.60-percent score.

Meanwhile, another Thomasian placed fourth in the August 2019 licensure exams for mechanical engineers, while the University kept the fourth spot among top-performing schools.

Caryl Patrick Rivera led the newest batch of Thomasian mechanical engineers with a 93.55-percent score.

UST got a 94.29-percent passing rate with 132 of out of 140 Thomasian examinees making the cut. Last year, 102 out of 117 examinees passed.

Batangas State University in Alangilan was named top-performing school this year after posting a 100-per-

Ramos

Rivera

cent passing rate. All 81 of its examinees made the cut.

Lester Toledo of the Cebu Institute of Technology-University emerged as the topnotcher, with a 94.65-percent score.

The national passing rate rose to 70.65 percent or 3,928 out of 5,560 examinees, from last year’s 60.81 percent or 3,092 out of 5,084. NEIL JOSHUA N. SERVALLOS AND CHARM RYANNE C. MAGPALI

WITNESS

The Varsitarian

EDITOR: JOSELLE CZARINA S. DE LA CRUZ

SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

3

2 Thomasians acquire youth ministry skills through certificate program

Novaliches Bishop Emeritus Teodoro Bacani, Jr. FILE PHOTO

Bishop Emeritus Bacani joins Dominican clerical fraternity THE ORDER of Preachers welcomed a new brother, Novaliches Bishop Emeritus Teodoro Bacani, Jr., who joined the Dominican priestly fraternity last Aug. 14 at Bahay Pari chapel of the San Carlos Pastoral Formation Complex in Makati.

Bacani said being a long-time instructor at the UST ecclesiastical faculties and his friendships with the Dominicans during his student years in Colegio de San Juan de Letran in Manila inspired him to join the Dominican family.

“One aspect that I find attrac-

tive was not the ideas first, but the persons, because I was always attracted to St. Thomas Aquinas’ and St. Dominic de Guzman’s religious zeal for preaching,” he said in an interview with the Varsitarian.

Bacani, who became the first bishop of the Diocese of Novaliches in 2002, also said he felt drawn to the University’s motto Veritas in Caritate or “truth in charity,” adding that he also strove to pursue this ideal during his episcopate. “[Faith] is simply not a personal faith… It must offer to the trans-

formation of the world of family, education, economics, politics, arts and culture. I think the Christian faith should permit those [transformations] in the world in which we live,” told Bacani.

Inspired by Fr. Pedro Tejero, O.P., a Dominican priest in Letran, Bacani entered the diocesan seminary and was ordained priest in 1965.

In 1984, he was elevated to the rank of bishop.

He became affiliated with the order after being invited by Fr. Florentino Bolo, O.P., promoter of

the Dominican Clerical Fraternity in the Philippines.

“The reason I joined [the Order of Preachers] is to be able to find support, to have a kindred spirit of life,” said Bacani.

Bacani finished his doctorate degree at Angelicum University in Rome, also a Dominican institution.

The Priestly Fraternity of St. Dominic is a group of diocesan priests who choose to live by the charism and ideals of the Order of Preachers. MARIEL CELINE L. SERQUIÑA

SUICIDE prevention continues to be a universal challenge and every year, suicide is among the top 20 leading causes of death globally for people of all ages.

A report by the World Health Organization showed that about 800,000 people, or one person every 40 seconds, commit suicide every year.

The youth should learn more about their mental health to cope with crises they encounter, said UST Psychotrauma Clinic director and consultant Fr. Edgardo de Jesus.

“Mental health should teach the youth how to manage their crisis, their depression, their anger. [I] n the advent of the Mental Health Act, it is important that people become aware not only of physical health but also mental health,” de Jesus said in an interview with the Varsitarian.

De Jesus stressed that individuals must stop the stigma of going to therapy and see the benefits that it has to offer.

“Kapag sinabi [mo sa iba] na

pupunta ka sa isang psychologist or psychiatrist, negative agad [ang tingin ng tao sa iyo],” he said.

(If you tell others that you will go and visit a psychologist or psychiatrist, they often view that negatively.)

De Jesus also said people undergoing mental health problems should not be afraid to reach out for help from others.

“Mahalaga dito kung paano sila mag-open and magkuwento. Ang mahirap kapag sinarili nila [‘yong nararamdaman nila] kasi doon tayo nagkaka-problema kasi iba [ang paraan ng] coping nila. Negative coping is suicide or addiction or early marriages. Mental health is helping them manage their crisis and episodes in life,” De Jesus said.

(It is important to be open and to tell your situation to others. The problem comes when a person keeps the situation to himself or herself, because each one has a different way of coping. Negative coping is suicide or addiction or early marriages.)Mental health stigma PAGE8

ARTWORK BY GWYNETH FIONA N. LUGA

‘End mental health stigma, propagate culture of presence’

TWO CAMPUS Ministry volunteers from the University completed this year’s Certificate on Youth Ministry, Pastoral Leadership and Empowerment (Cymple) program.

John Peter Asiño and Sheena Jeniffer Estioko were among the graduates of the eighth edition of the Cymple training held at the San Pedro Calungsod Youth Center in Intramuros, Manila last Aug. 10.

Cymple is a non-degree and non-credit program jointly organized by the UST Center for Campus Ministry and the Archdiocese of Manila’s Commission on Youth.

For seven Saturdays, youth participants attended lectures and workshop sessions. They also had to undergo a “mission experience” to complete the program.

After interviewing youth leaders in various parishes to assess the situation and problems faced by their ministries, the participants were expected to apply what they have learned in their own communities.

Asiño, a campus ministry student volunteer since 2016, said he learned not only to be a “servant-leader” but also how to cope with changes and develop ways to know the needs of the community. “[I]’ve learned to use my communication skills through dialogue to understand the situation of the community where I was assigned to. [W]e were able to devise and formulate ways to help them by knowing their needs and strengths,” he told the Varsitarian.

Asiño, a philosophy graduate and former president of AB Pax Romana, said more youth ministers willing to serve, amid difficulties in the Church and society, were needed.

Youth ministry PAGE 10

UsapangUste

Debosyon sa Santisimo Rosario, nag-ugat sa pagbabago, pagsubok BUKOD sa katangi-tangi ang Parokya ng Santisimo Rosario dahil nasa loob ito ng isang Unibersidad, katangi-tangi rin ang pinag-ugatan ng debosyon sa Mahal na Birhen na nagdaan sa ilang pagbabago at pagsubok.

Sa kasagsagan ng Ikalawang Digmaang Pangdaigdig, itinalaga ng dating arsobispo ng Maynila na si Michael O’Doherty ang kapilya sa Unibersidad na maging isang parokya noong ika-26 ng Abril 1942.

Noong ika-28 ng Setyembre 1942, inilipat ang nasagip na imahen ng Mahal na Birhen ng Santo Rosaryo o La Naval sa parokya.

Ito ang naging simula ng pagdiriwang ng kapistahan sa parokya tuwing unang linggo ng Oktubre kung saan dito isinasagawa ang nobena para sa Mahal na Ina ng Santo Rosaryo La Nava de Manila hanggang taong 1954.

Ayon sa libro ni P. Gallardo Asor Bombase, Jr., O.P., na “Santisimo Rosario Parish: Its History and Guide for Parish Leaders,” isang bala ng anti-aircraft gun ang tumama malapit sa altar ng imahen ng Mahal na Birhen noong ika-6 ng Pebrero 1944.

Sa kabila ng panganib, inilayo ni P. Juan Ortega, O.P. ang bomba mula sa Debosyon sa Santisimo Rosario PAH. 10

4

OPINION The Varsitarian

SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

Bugsô JOSELLE CZARINA S. DE LA CRUZ

Are we really free to express our faith?

EDITORIAL Thunder Up JOHN EZEKIEL J. HIRRO

Make it fair and square THE TWO-MONTH-OLD cleaning and clearing campaign of Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso is a breath of fresh air for a city that has plunged into a state of decay from decades of smog and dank, disorder and recklessness, and abuse and neglect.

Because of the ex-actor, other local government executives in neighboring cities, municipalities and provinces seem to be taking cue from him, even as President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered during his State of the Nation Address in July the reclaiming of streets and sidewalks long used for private purposes.

The operation is in full swing in Sampaloc, Manila, where the University stands as an old guard, and among just a few remaining bright and green spots in the historic city that have kept the charm and grace of the ages.

Outside the 21-hectare campus is a wild interplay of high-rise dormitories aching for attention, and rust-ridden, rotting structures itching for some serious makeover.

Tributaries leading to the four main streets and boulevards surrounding the 408-year-old institution have likewise been cleared of obstructions, after the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s 60-day notice, purportedly to ease vehicular and pedestrian traffic.

That sounds better than it appears so far.

Gone are the vendors and their mostly roving food stalls – erstwhile cheap alternatives for budget-tight students or the more intrepid souls. But the roads are still far from clear and conveniently passable. Private vehicles still rule the pavements. In effect, streets are being rid of “obstructions” so they can be used as parking lots.

To vendors, students, and other legitimate road users, that’s just unfair.

It looks like any person who buys a car without first considering where to park it has a special privilege to occupy the space, while others — specifically the ordinary folk trying to make a living selling on the streets — don’t. It undermines the campaign to make the city look, breathe and function better.

So, in the name of fairness, why not serve clearing up notices on owners of garage-less vehicles as well? If they don’t build their own parking spaces inside their own properties, dump their cars!

Preserve campus free of Duterte despotism So when people take to the streets to practice their freedom of expression, to defend their rights and protest his regime, the madman takes personal offense.

HOW RIDICULOUS that President Duterte who wrings his iron fist at the slightest excuse, who has kowtowed to Communist China and committed the treason of allowing it to occupy Philippine territory and even to bully our poor fishermen out of Philippine waters, who disgustingly spews misogynistic comments, who dismisses human rights, and who attacks the Catholic Church, the faith of majority of Filipinos, is the same man who, when criticized by the press and others on the public sphere, throws tantrums like a child who hasn’t been given his favorite toy. It’s no wonder that the same people and government officials who praise the ground he walks on show the same type of attitude – raising their fist, questioning the motives of dissenters, presenting themselves as unassailable, and spewing venom after ugly venom against their critics.

An example of this so-called Duterte loyalist is Sen. Roland “Bato” de la Rosa who lost his composure last August 22 in a Senate hearing on the revival of mandatory Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) in senior high school.

Raoul Manuel of the National Union of Students of the Philippines, mentioned the Senator’s comment on giving convicted former Calauan, Laguna mayor Antonio Sanchez, who was sentenced to seven reclusion perpetua terms (40 years each) for a rape-slay in 1993 a “second chance.” The remark hit a sensitive spot on De la Rosa, nicknamed “The Rock,” who immediately flared up and accused Manuel of going off-topic and even questioned the student’s love for country. Such a bold move for a Senator who formerly headed the war on drugs that caused

the deaths of innocent lives and violation of human rights. Then again, he gets it from the man above, the President, who seemed not to have overlooked the dire implications of his proclamation in his first State of the Nation address in which he insisted on the righteousness of his murderous anti-drug campaign: “Your concern is human rights, mine is human lives.”

So when people take to the streets to practice their freedom of expression, to defend their rights and protest his regime, the madman takes personal offense. For an iron-fisted strongman who displays his macho braggadocio by making demeaning remarks about women and the Church, Duterte is onion-skinned; he easily takes offense and shrilly screams foul like a sissy! Ditto with his partisans such as The Rock!

Duterte needs to stop whining at the slightest criticism. He should stop playing the victim’s card, crying wolf whenever somebody criticizes his authoritarian excesses. Whenever anyone tries to point a critical finger at him and his actions, he takes it sourly, if not vindictively. He then lashes back despotically, for instance banning media organizations from covering events where he will be present. Obviously, such measures are meant to silence the press. Truly our despicable madman needs to realize that there is a difference between personal feelings and public criticism.

Now the despot is clamping down on schools. Two days prior to the Senate hearing on the ROTC revival, A “Day of Walkout and Action” was declared on August 20 at the University of the Philippines in Diliman to protest the police and military presence on campus.

Preserve campus PAGE 10

FOUNDED JANUARY 16, 1928

EUGENE DOMINIC V. ABOY, O.P.

KATRINA ISABEL C. GONZALES

Editor in Chief Associate Editor

JOHN EZEKIEL J. HIRRO News and Online Editor FAITH YUEN WEI N. RAGASA Sports Editor JISELLE ANNE C. CASUCIAN Features and Circle Editor JOSELLE CZARINA S. DE LA CRUZ Filipino and Witness Editor MARY JAZMIN D. TABUENA Chief Photographer JURY P. SALAYA Art Director

FELIPE F. SALVOSA II Assistant Publications Adviser

JOSELITO B. ZULUETA Publications Adviser

NEWS Ahmed Khan H. Cayongcat, Charm Ryanne C. Magpali Camille Abiel H. Torres SPORTS Malic U. Cotongan, Rommel Bong R. Fuertes Jr. SPECIAL REPORTS Klyra V. Orbien FEATURES Ma. Jasmine Trisha L. Nepomuceno, Neil Joshua N. Servallos LITERARY Leigh Anne E. Dispo WITNESS Ma. Alena O. Castillo, Mariel Celine L. Serquiña SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Jade Veronique V. Yap CIRCLE Nolene Beatrice H. Crucillo, Neil Paolo S. Gonzales ART Mariane Jane A. Cadiz, Alisa Joy T. del Mundo, Gwyneth Fiona N. Luga, Catherine Paulene A. Umali, Edward Jefferson Uy PHOTOGRAPHY Nadine Anne M. Deang, Jean Gilbert T. Go, Renzelle Shayne V. Picar, Bianca Jolene S. Redondo, Camille Abiel H. Torres, Marvin John F. Uy, Arianne Maye D.G. Viri EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Jessica C. Asprer

IS IT REALLY true faith or mere expression of piety?

Religion teaches people about the ethical values that would guide them in their daily lives. Everyone has the liberty to choose what they believe in, because freedom of religion is a fundamental right.

But everyone must understand the responsibilities and values attached to their own belief. Religious practices are not just about expressions of mere piety. It involves the consideration of moral values.

In the third International Forum on Law and Religion last July 31 at the University of the Philippines, experts revealed that because of the restrictions imposed by governments on religion in some countries, persecution is on the rise.

Eighty-six percent or 6.5 billion people in the world are experiencing restrictions in their religious practice, according to Pew Research Center.

In the Philippines, religious freedom is adequately protected, at least by law. The state does not favor one group over another.

Article III, Section 5 of the Philippine Constitution states that: “No law shall be made respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof. The free exercise and enjoyment of religious profession and worship, without discrimination or preference, shall forever be allowed.”

While the Constitution allows various religions to practice their faith, one must not turn a blind eye to the reality of persecution happening in the country.

In the Duterte administration, there have been countless reports of attacks hurled against the Catholic Church, criminal charges filed against Church leaders, and killings of priests.

The former president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, Archbishop Socrates Villegas pointed out that persecution is not just limited to violence. There are attacks against the Catholic Church in social media for being a “moral compass.”

When a Church leader or layman talks about the respect for the dignity of human life, they become targets of trolls, said Villegas.

What’s even more alarming are the trumped-up charges our Church leaders and some members of the clergy and religious are facing.

Caloocan Bishop Pablo Virgilio David, Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas, Bishop Emeritus Teodoro Bacani, Cubao Bishop Honesto Ongtioco, Fr. Flaviano Villanueva, Fr. Robert Reyes and Fr. Albert Alejo, as well as “Sister Ling” of the Convent of Canossian Sisters, are all facing criminal charges filed by the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group.

Some of these Church figures are facing sedition cases while others are accused of kidnapping and serious illegal detention.

If religious freedom is adequately protected by the law, and the Catholic Church is just expressing its religious belief in standing up for human rights, then why are they being targeted by the state for upholding their own beliefs?

Gary Doxey, associate director of the International Center for Law and Religion Studies of Brigham Young University in America, said we are in the age where the threat against religious freedom is becoming more and more serious. Faith PAGE 10

OPINION

The Varsitarian

The Sea Games façade PLAYING a nationalistic theme song. Construction of bigger venues. Designing uniforms bearing the nation’s red, blue, white and yellow colors.

These things are expected as we begin the countdown for the South East Asian Games in the country this November.

However, we shouldn’t be surprised if this becomes a countdown to failure.

The problem lies not with our athletes’ capabilities but on the government’s lack of interest and support for the sports community as it hosts this prestigious regional competition.

The premature execution of the SEA Games hosting could bring more complications rather than benefits, and betray our lack of readiness for this year’s event.

Though the Philippines organized fairly successful SEA Games competitions in 1981, 1991 and 2005, there is no guarantee of success this year.

The country bid to host the 30th SEA Games after Brunei declined the offer in 2015 due to financial and logistical issues.

After this bid, the government withdrew support for the competition in 2017, saying that the funds were to be used for the rehabilitation of war-torn Marawi.

The government later changed its mind and decided to sponsor the games. It unveiled plans to organize the most ambitious SEA Games yet, with 56 sports events compared with the previous 31.

News of a P2.5-billion budget cut for the games arose early this year as the Senate approved only P5 billion of the original P7.5-billion proposal of the Philippine SEA Games Organizing Committee.

The government is spending P607 billion in its rush to build the New Clark City – the first smart and green city in Tarlac, which is also the proposed location for the athletes’ village and the SEA Games closing ceremony venue.

According to the Inquirer, this future city flattened hectares of greenery into concrete, redirected natural flow of rivers and displaced the Hungey tribe which is known to be the oldest Aeta group in the province.

Philippine Sports Commission chairman Butch Ramirez vowed that these new venues would be used not only for the 2019 SEA Games but also for Phil-

540 FAITH YUEN WEI N. RAGASA

ippine sports in the long haul.

The optimism is questionable, because government-owned facilities like the Ninoy Aquino Stadium, Rizal Memorial Sports Complex and Philippine Sports Arena have not undergone any repairs following the 2005 Sea Games.

Due to sudden renovations of these venues, pre-season tournaments and small local competitions usually held in these places have been postponed.

Local tournament schedules have also been affected, including this year’s 82nd season of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).

Ateneo de Manila University’s athletics office director Manuel Fernandez mentioned during the UAAP opening press conference that the season’s cramped schedule would pose a great challenge to the athletes.

Ateneo laid out plans to compress the first semester games in two months for the sake of student-athletes who would be representing the country in the international stint, and to avoid conflicting with the SEA Games in November and December.

In addition, facilities in UAAP universities such as the Blue Eagle Gym, Far Eastern University-Diliman and University of the Philippines football fields will be used as practice venues for the Southeast Asian tourney.

With less than a hundred days until the kick off, further preparations for the inter-country competition were still underway and would likely be finished at the last minute.

The government should not have chosen to cram the country’s upgrade for the games and should have focused on strengthening local athletes and sports communities.

It’s like watching a racecar speeding toward a brick wall. The only thing left for us to do is to desperately hope that the driver would steer toward another direction and prevent a crash.

Unite in faith

(FROM PAGE 1) Alarcon, a UST alumnus,

reminded professors that the search for truth is not only through the path of reason, but also of faith. “While we sharpen our intellect, let us also do so with our faith…It is not our academic degrees that hold us together, but our faith,” he said.

What’s important, he added, “is not only the delivery of lessons and the number of board passers but the building of the Catholic culture of the University.”

“May we exert effort and go out of our comfort zones to meet, encourage one another and become united…Even if our search for truth is not always very clear [because of our limits], we cannot live in doubt or we will live in fear and anxiety,” the prelate said.

He also reminded the students that being part of the Catholic University is to respond to the call to take up the task of bringing Christian wisdom to the secular sciences and culture.

Alarcon finished philosophy at the Holy Rosary minor seminary in Naga City, studied theology at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila and Church history at the Gregorian University in Rome.

The theology alumnus, now the country’s youngest Catholic bishop, officially opened Academic Year 2019-2020 after the Mass.

The traditional Discurso de Apertura or Opening Lecture was delivered by Faculty of Medicine and Surgery Professor Ma. Minerva Calimag.

Calimag, an anesthesiologist, urged re-

searchers to always aim for the social good over personal accolades.

“Doing research is not just about publishing for career advancement but for promoting social good. It is not just being there to publish.

As researchers, we are involved in the generation of knowledge and we are personally implicated in the way it will be used,” she said.

Calimag also highlighted problems in the health sector, noting that 60 percent of Filipinos die without seeing a doctor.

Quoting Dr. Ernesto Domingo, a Ramon Magsaysay awardee, Calimag noted that there were only 2,838 government doctors nationwide, while 6,151 doctors practice in five medical centers in Metro Manila alone.

“Encourage inclusivity and reject alienation. Let us do studies that promote healthy behaviors and safety,” Calimag said.

Calimag reminded researchers to always “involve communities in decision-making.”

Calimag, who served as the 93rd president of the Philippine Medical Association in 2014-2015, also pushed researchers to give time and talent to fulfill the University’s goal of building a community of “action researchers.”

“We at the University train future leaders who will continue to nurture our society into a vibrant future,” she said.

Calimag quoted former top Dominican Fr. Bruno Cadore, O.P., also a physician, advising Thomasians to always “ask God to make everyone ambassadors of compassion in this world.” CHARM MAGPALI, RAIMEE ROSE ARUGAY, CAMILLE TORRES

SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

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The saggy reality of Sogie Respect toward the LGBT+ community can only be genuine if people who have opposing views are not forced to compromise their own convictions and beliefs. We can only respect others when we are first and foremost allowed to respect ourselves.

TO BE OPEN to a culture of diversity and inclusivity is a mark of a progressive nation. Society’s flourishing largely depends on its capacity to ensure that everyone feels accepted and that no one is left behind.

However, respect and tolerance, which has become the battle cry of the 21st century, should likewise apply to those who are clamoring for the passage of the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity or Expression (Sogie) bill.

Respect toward the LGBT+ community can only be genuine if people who have opposing views are not forced to compromise their own convictions and beliefs. We can only respect others when we are first and foremost allowed to respect ourselves.

When we just drift amid the caprices of the times and fail to have a firm grip on the values we hold dear “in the name of love and equal-

ity,” the progress that comes from acceptance and inclusivity becomes illusory.

In 2014, Facebook opened 71 gender options for its users. In 2019, Tumblr has at least 112 genders to choose from. It doesn’t take a student of philosophy to see where this is headed.

I know it calls for an open mind, but as G.K. Chesterton puts it, let us not be too open-minded that our brains fall out. Our age has come to the false notion that the concept of human rights and equality serves as license to do whatever we want, without responsibilities and consequences.

Indeed, discrimination and intolerance are abhorrent and should be fought without question.

However, it would be naïve of us to think that tolerance simply means accepting everything.

St. Thomas Aquinas defines love

Contra Coro EUGENE DOMINIC V. ABOY, O.P.

as “willing the good of the other.”

If there is anything revealed by the recent drama of Gretchen Diez inside a Quezon City mall toilet (aside from his real gender), it is that tolerance and inclusivity sometimes take the form of a subtle reproach.

The University upholds the motto “Veritas in Caritate” (truth in love). Without truth, love turns into a destructive lie. Real love means that certain things should not be tolerated. Real love means rejecting things that would not lead others to their own good. Real love means telling hard truths even if it means looking primitive and bigoted to others.

As Christians, we take our stand regarding the issue on gender not because it is demanded by doctrine or because the pope says so, but because it is what our nature as human beings demand and it is from this nature that our rights are derived.

Thomasians oppose ‘militarization’ (FROM PAGE 1) For

Rabin Bote, Student Organization Coordinating Council (SOCC) secretary, police and military presence would put students in more peril.

“Police presence in the University will act as an extended arm of the government inside campuses to suppress dissent and wrongfully tag progressive students and organizations as terrorist forms,” he said.

In a Martial Law and human rights forum, UST Vice Rector for Religious Affairs Rev. Fr. Pablo Tiong, O.P. said there was no real threat within the University that would require military presence.

Tiong said these proposals should be reconsidered and that if peace and order was the only concern, cooperation should be with the national police, not the military.

“If there will be an actual or perceived threat, there is nothing wrong with additional protection, but how we wish that it should be the national police...The military is for external threats, we would not like that there would be unreasonable sources of anxiety and fear,” he said.

In October last year, UST was included in a list released by the military of universities and colleges deemed as communist recruitment grounds.

University officials Secretary General Fr. Jesus Miranda Jr., O.P. and former Simbahayan Director Mark Anthony Abenir slammed the inclusion of the University in the military list.

‘Defend academic freedom’ In a statement, Año said the DILG wanted to conduct dialogues with schools to raise awareness against leftist recruitment.

Año, a retired military general, claimed that 500 to 1,000 Filipino youths were “recruited” by communist-linked groups annually.

For Kurt Dynel Malaca, student activist from Samahan ng Progresibong Kabataan-UST, the intervention of authorities in the University threatens academic freedom and puts students and professors at risk of red-tagging.

“UST students and professors are engaged in different fields of research and advocacies that the military labels as ‘terrorist,’” he told the Varsitarian.

He said students who join progressive youth groups and professors who conduct research on indigenous people and activism would be at risk of harassment.

Malaca called on UST to assert its academic freedom, as it should be autonomous from state influence.

“UST is a haven for political discourse and holistic learning. The intervention of the military in its affairs must be met with the strongest possible resistance,” he said.

League of Filipino Students-UST spokeswoman Trisha Ifurung said the real agenda of putting state forces in campuses and reinstating the Anti-Subversion law was to silence the administration’s critics.

RA 1700, also known as the “Anti-Subversion Act,” was enacted under President Carlos Garcia at the height of the Huk rebellion in 1957. It punished mere affiliation and membership with the Commu-

nist Party of the Philippines.

Three decades after its enactment, the Anti-Subversion Law was repealed through RA 7636 in 1992 under President Fidel Ramos.

If the law is reinstated, “anyone in their eyes could be tagged as communists… it is inciting harm to our safety, dahil sa gobyerno, sino mang magsalita o mag-batikos sa estado ay terorista o NPA rebel,” Ifurung said.

Ifurung said joining progressive youth groups did not mean affiliating with NPA. “Kung mayroon mang piniling mamundok at maging miyembro ng NPA ‘yun ay sariling kapasyahan ng tao, kaming mga aktibista labas kami sa ganoon,” she said.

“Kami ay nagpro-protesta lamang... Kami ay nagaaral para gamitin ang kaalaman na ito para sa ikauunlad ng ating bayan.”

She called on the UST administration to protect and defend its students by speaking out and releasing statements against the proposed measures.

Bote emphasized that the SOCC, the council that oversees the University’s student organizations, was supportive of the fight of student organizations for their rights without the fear of repression by the state. “[The SOCC] strives to protect all student organizations and its particular interests, and it will not allow any entity to malign advocacies of student organizations,” Bote said.

The proposed measures led to public backlash, walk-outs and protests in universities. On Aug. 21, professors from various universities including UST denounced the proposed deployment of state forces in a press conference at the University of the Philippines Diliman.

Dennis Coronacion, chairman of UST’s Department of Political Science, said sending state forces to schools was not the right approach to address the issue of leftist recruitment.

“University professors play a big role in enlightening [students] and protecting them...Don’t give threats, that’s not the right way to do it. The right way to do it is to engage [students] in discussions, debates,” he said.

‘Whole-of-nation approach’ In 2018, President Rodrigo Duterte signed EO 70 “institutionalizing the “Whole-of-Nation” approach in ending the “local communist armed conflict,” and formed the NATF-ELCAC. The “approach” involves coordination between national government agencies and local governments under a “National Peace Framework.”

The task force is composed of Cabinet members, two representatives from the private sector, the national security adviser as vice chairman and the president as chairman.

Education Secretary Leonor Briones, a member of the task force, implemented the EO by suspending 55 Salugpungan Ta’ Tanu Igkanogon (Salugpungan) tribal schools in Mindanao because of alleged ties with communist rebels.

EDITOR: JISELLE ANNE C. CASUCIAN

Alab Ng Musika celebrates young Filipino talents

By Nolene Beatrice H. Crucillo and Neil Joshua N. Servallos PRESERVING Filipino culture and music was the objective of “Alab ng Musika: Wagi,” this year’s edition of the concert of winners of the National Artist Competition for Young Artists’ (NAMCYA), held last Aug. 23 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP).

Assoc. Prof. Renato Lucas, UST Symphony Orchestra conductor and NAMCYA president, highlighted the role of teachers in discovering new talent.

“The teachers [are important] because [the value of music] is difficult to understand. To entertain is just one [part] of it,” he told the Varsitarian.

The concert opened with an enthralling performance of “Segalariak” by multi-awarded Dr. Yanga’s Colleges Inc. (DYCI) Dagalak, conducted by Nelson de la Cruz.

DYCI Dagalak also captured the audience with their performances of “Ikapat-Nonot Kamo Kanako,” “Baleling,” “Ang Ali-

bangbang,” “True Colors” and “Carpe Somnium.”

Under the baton of music prodigy Alfonso Bolipata, world-renowned orchestra Pundaquit Virtuosi gave a dynamic performance of pieces like “Finale from the Serenade for Strings in C Maj, Op. 48,” “Philippine Folk Tunes” and “Kalesa.”

The UST Symphony Orchestra, together with renowned cellist Giancarlo Castrillo, amazed the audience with a performance of Pyotr Ilyich Tschaikowsky’s “Variations on a Rococo Theme, Op. 33 for cello.”

“This concert of winners not

CIRC

The Varsitaria

Steam

only featured the winners themselves but it is also a celebration of Filipino music and its culture,” UST Symphony Orchestra President Ram Sajota said.

A grand orchestral rendition of Arnel De Pano’s “Tumataginting,” arranged by Naldi Rodriguez, was performed by all artists to end the concert.

Founded in 1973 by the CCP, the Department of Education and the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, NAMCYA has become the country’s major avenue in discovering new musical talents.

Assoc. Prof. Renato Lucas conducts the UST Symphony Orchestra in Alab ng Musika: Wagi, last Aug. 23. PHOTO

‘Mabining Mandirigma,’ an award-winnin director, Chris Millado, premieres at the C

BY BIANCA JOLENE S. REDONDO

UST ALUMNI INSPIRE ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS IN OPEN-AIR EXHIBIT ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES were highlighted in the openair exhibit titled “Gallery of the Sea” last Aug. 13 at the Manila Yacht Club on Roxas Boulevard.

Fine arts graduate Nemi Miranda was approached by the former executive director of the National Commission for Culture and Arts, Cecille Alvarez, to lead the project that aimed to promote change and movement for the implementation of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations.

“The Gallery of the Sea is a collective effort of Earth Savers, and 25 visual artists to create awareness for the

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environment as well as for all of us to achieve the 17 SDGs,” Kim Marcelo, the exhibit organizer said in an online interview with the Varsitarian.

“We, the organizers really want it to be public art since the project itself is an advocacy for the care of the environment,” Marcelo stated.

The artists were each given a 12 x 8 ft. head sail made out of nylon taffeta, a fabric that is used for umbrellas.

Head sails were lined up along Manila Bay, tied on railings to withstand strong winds.

Miranda’s acrylic artwork depicts two children and

Thomasian artists mount their works in an open-air exhibit titled ‘Gallery of the Sea’ at the Manila Yacht Club. PHOTO BY ARIANNE MAYE D.G. VIRI

the contrast of their lives: one attains education while the other is forced to work.

Joanne Rebustillo, an advertising graduate, showcased “What is the Cost of your Fashion,” an acrylic painting of a fashion diva on a head sail.

“Clothes are basic necessities, but there is also the conundrum of what is enough. Also, there is a question: How ethically and responsibly was it produced, like the process to get the end product? The waste? The damage?” Rebustillo said.

“Essentially, if we do not take responsibility and control consumerism, we ourselves, slowly put resources to a road toward extinction,” she added.

Rebustillo said she loved movements and non-definitive subjects in doing acrylic paintings.

Ronald Santos, who took up civil engineering in the University, displayed an acrylic painting of a scuba diver exploring the depths of the ocean floor in “Rehabilitation.”

Fine arts alumnus Augusto Ortega Santiago Jr. depicted four arms holding up the earth, with numerous animals around it, in his piece “Life on Land.”

Lito Balagtas, who graduated with a degree in fine arts in 1978, portrayed doves soaring above individuals from indigenous tribes and natural aquatic resources such as fish in “Reduced Inequalities.”

Featuring 25 artists, the exhibit sought to trigger curiosity about the 17 SDGs, a blueprint for a more sustainable future.

The 17 SDGs are: no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, industry, innovation and infrastructure, reduced inequality, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, climate action, life below water, life on land, and peace and justice strong institutions.

After Aug. 31, the artworks will be exhibited on a boat that will traverse Manila Bay and the Pasig River, before going to other parts of the country. N.P.S. GONZALES

THOMASIA BEAUTY THOMASIAN artists interpreted everyday realities amid their artistic differences in “Extraordinaire,” which opened last Aug. 12 at Power Plant Mall in Makati.

Juvenal Sanso incorporated abstract designs in “With Passionate Exuberance,” a 9.5 x 12.5 in. acrylic on paper that mended orange and blue hues.

Sanso also illustrated a green bush with orange flowers in the acrylic on paper “Flourishing in Prosperity.”

Ramon Orlina carved “Passion of Love,” a clear optical glass sculpture of two human figures embracing each other.

CLE

an

SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

mpunk musical tackles Mabini AWARD-WINING steampunk musical “Mabining Mandirigma,” opened last Aug. 16 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Little Theater.

The musical by Tanghalang Pilipino, the resident theater company of the CCP, was under the direction of the center’s vice president and artistic director, Chris Millado.

On its fourth run, award-winning Mabining Mandirigma, a tribute to Apolinario Mabini, the Philippines’s first prime minister, proved to be timeless four years since its first staging in 2015. The libretto was by Nicanor Tiongson, and the music was written by Joed Balsamo.

The musical revolved around Mabini’s humble beginnings, showing the obstacles he had to surpass, such as poverty.

Mabini joined the Philippine Revolution using his intellect and conquers the indifference of his contemporaries despite his disability.

It showed that issues hounding the nation might have taken different forms, but have not really changed.

It tackled, for instance, many sensi-

tivities of Filipino identity, such as the use of the Filipino language over English and the suffering of Filipinos in the hands of foreign invaders.

The musical was different because Mabini was portrayed by a female actress (Monique Wilson and Hazel Maranan) who stood out from the rest of the cast both musically and metaphorically.

The voice of a woman among a cast of males gave Mabini the advantage in vocal range and justified the idea that he was excluded by his contemporaries, as women were excluded, too, that time.

“Originally, ‘yong umpisa ng Mabining Mandirigma, hindi musical. ‘Yong idea na magkaroon ng cast iyong isang female actress sa role ng isang male character ay nagmula doon sa pangangailangan ng desisyon na maging musical,” Millado said in a press interview.

“Kailangan namin ng isang boses na mangingibabaw doon sa ibang boses na mostly male characters, doon sa play,” he added.

“Mabining Mandirigma” ran until Sept. 1. NOLENE BEATRICE H. CRUCILLO AND M.J.T.L. NEPOMUCENO

ng steampunk musical under the direction of the Cultural Center of the Philippines’ (CCP) vice president and artistic CCP Little Theater on Aug. 16. PHOTO BY M.J.F. UY M.J.F. UY

AN ARTISTS HIGHLIGHT Y OF THE MUNDANE Painting graduate Milmar Onal’s metallic canvas piece “Silent Sky” depicts a floating city amid sunset.

“Paano kung sobrang dami nang tao dito sa mundo? Makapag-create na ba talaga ng city sa sky? `Yung at peace ka at lumulutang? `Yung calmness nanduon, `yung parang walang problema—Silent sky,” Onal said in an interview with the Varsitarian.

Abstractionist Raul Isidro showcased his works “Holyyweek STI2011” and “Late Afternoon,” acrylic on canvas works influenced by his childhood memories.

“Most of my works are from the past, memories of my childhood days,” he said.

“Those were the days when we had nothing but nature to appreciate.”

Fine arts alumnus Angelito Antonio depicted farmers in their daily routines on charcoal and paper in his pieces titled “Playful Sign,” “Fruits,” and “Dynamics.”

Painter Dominic Rubio, known for his 19th century Filipiniana-themed works, created a brass sculpture of a man clad in barong tagalog and golden specs in “Honorable Man.” National Artist for Visual Arts Abdulmari Imao’s “Sarimanok Series,” a brass on wood sculpture, features a gleaming Sarimanok or mythical bird perched on clashing waves.

The exhibit included 12 other artists, such as: Richard Amirado, Richard Buxani, Ombok Villamor, Benjie Mallari, Marge Organo, Ram Mallari, Perfecto Palero Jr., Averil Paras, Aner Sebastian, Toym Imao, Wilbert Custodio and Nap Limaten.

“Extraordinaire” ran until Aug. 18. LEIGH ANNE E. DISPO and NEIL PAOLO S. GONZALES with reports from CHARM RYANNE C. MAGPALI AND CAMILLE ABIEL H. TORRES

Thomasian artists showcase everyday realities in ‘Extraordinaire.’ PHOTO BY NADINE ANNE M. DEANG

Communication arts alumnae Janina Gacosta and Cheska Marfori deliver their acceptance speech. Photo from Film Development Council of the Philippines Facebook page

Communication arts alumnae win best director in inaugural CineSpectra COMMUNICATION arts alumnae Janina Gacosta and Cheska Marfori bagged the best director award for their film “Ang Gasgas Na Plaka Ni Lolo Bert” in the inaugural CineSpectra short film festival on Aug. 26 at Trinoma, Quezon City.

The film’s narrative revolves around a closeted gay man (Dido de la Paz) in his 60s, who chose to isolate himself in a lonely apartment, and a lonely widower (Soliman Cruz) that owns a vinyl shop.

“The film explores the bond between two people who have been treated as outsiders. In their grief and emptiness, they found a connection that will help bring back faith

in themselves,” Gacosta and Marfori told the Varsitarian in an online interview.

The theme of this year’s CineSpectra is “Your Judgment, Their Life,” aiming to break the country’s stigma against HIV and AIDS and to empower filmmakers to transform narratives into movies with strong advocacies.

“With everything that is happening in the world right now, we just want to make a film that could still make us believe in the goodness of humanity. We also want to take part and engage ourselves with issues that affect the LGBTQ+ community or issues that trample on human rights,”

they said.

According to Gacosta and Mafori, their experiences as members of Teatro Tomasino, UST’s official theater guild, “honed their craft” in storytelling and “ignited their belief ” in the power and flexibility of storytelling.

Marfori graduated from the University in 2013 while Gacosta graduated in 2014.

Other Thomasians who were part of the production of “Ang Gasgas Na Plaka Ni Lolo Bert,” were Sherina Inza-Cruz (production designer), Jessa Espina (production assistant), Jessa Gaspacho (BTS) and Jose Mojica (music). NOLENE BEATRICE H. CRUCILLO

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SCI-TECH The Varsitarian

SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

Climate change linked to dengue outbreak ‘Because of the warming climate, the range or coverage of the mosquito is increasing.’

CLIMATE change is one of the contributing factors in the increase of dengue cases in the country, Thomasian public health specialist Alvin Rey Flores said.

“Because of the warming climate, the range or coverage of the mosquito is increasing. The constant rains that we experience can also contribute to the spread of the infection. This leads to increase number of breeding sites for the mosquito,” he said in an online interview with the Varsitarian.

Flores said the female Aedes aegypti mosquito seen in tropical areas such as

the Philippines is the primary vector of the virus, pointing out that changes in weather and water shortages also affect the population of mosquitoes.

Doctor Jay Ron Padua, a specialist on pediatric infectious diseases, said there had been nine confirmed reported cases of dengue in the University, five of which were admitted between July and August.

There were also a total of 109 cases of acute viral illness suspected as dengue.

“From January to December, we see dengue. Pero tumataas kasi ang kaso during the rainy season. Kasi siyempre

tag-ulan, [naiipon] iyong tubig, [kapag] hindi mo na-check, pwedeng pamugaran ng lamok,” Padua said.

The Department of Health declared dengue a national epidemic on August 6, 2019.

As of August 30, the DOH epidemiology bureau recorded 208,917 reported dengue cases and 882 deaths from January 1 to August 10, 2019.

According to the World Health Organization, dengue fever is considered the fastest spreading and most critical mosquito-borne viral disease in the world.

Last August 26, a grade 8 student from the Junior High School succumbed to dengue after suffering high fever and stomach pain.

Risk Padua said that everybody was at risk of getting the virus wherever dengue mosquitoes were present.

“Be it here in the campus or outside the campus, within Sampaloc, within Metro Manila, everybody is at risk…

[E]ven the mosquito can travel with you in UV Express, or FX, so anywhere you can be bitten and you can develop,” Dr. Padua told the Varsitarian.

He said UST was taking action against the spread of the virus with the help of Facilities Management Office through search and destroy operations of mosquito habitats, larval trapping, and chemical misting.

Both the UST Health Service and Hospital are constantly reminding the Thomasian community to be alert and practice early seeking behavior.

Mental health stigma (FROM PAGE 3) He

said people must help those undergoing depression to look at the brighter side of life.

“Empowering them to find meaning in their lives psychologically and spiritually can make them realize that life is so beautiful,” he said.

The International Association for Suicide Prevention marks World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD) every Sept. 10.

“Working Together to Prevent Suicide” was the theme of this year’s WSPD. The event aims to raise awareness about suicide, mental illnesses, and ways to reach vulnerable individuals and get them to receive help.

‘Culture of presence’ University religious organizations emphasized their advocacies regarding suicide prevention based on a pastoral letter written

by Archbishop Jose Advincula of Capiz in July.

Catherine Villo, vice president for Christian renewal of UST Pax Romana, called on the faithful to take the initiative to be with people who encounter problems that could trigger mental health issues.

“As Church people, we should make them feel that they are loved by many. [I]t is our duty to help them overcome their problems by showing them that they matter,” Villo told the Varsitarian in an online interview.

Villo added that people must be aware of the vital role of the presence of others in one’s life despite difficult times.

Maria Elena Perez of the service council of the UST Christ’s Youth in Action, said one must be willing to care and pray for someone in times of distress.

“It is very important that they know they are loved and not alone; that someone is willing to listen, support and understand them where they are, instead of labeling someone by their condition,” Perez said.

Adonis Evan Basa Jr. of Dominican Network Youth Group stressed the need to strengthen the “culture of presence” in society.

“Sometimes, organizations are so focused on their projects and activities; we fail to see the need of our members. Ministry of presence is being present to and for others – taking time to just simply listen, to accompany a sad person, and to assure someone afraid,” Basa said.

Fr. Conegundo Garganta, executive secretary of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines Commission on Youth, said support is given to Church-related programs that seek to prevent suicide.

“We laud and acknowledge faith-based efforts on suicide prevention, such as the activities organized by the CBCP-ECC, the pastoral letter of the Archbishop of Capiz, various mental health activities organized by diocesan youth ministries and Catholic youth organizations.” MA. ALENA

“If you have these symptoms, if you have fever two days already, then get a consultation because you might be having dengue already,” Padua said.

Despite the increasing rates of dengue cases, Flores affirmed that the banning of Dengvaxia is not necessarily linked to the outbreak for there is still no comprehensive data on the long-term safety of the vaccine.

“The vaccine trials are still ongoing and previous [ones] have shown that there is a higher risk or chance of development of severe dengue among seronegative individuals,” Flores stated.

Last February, the anti-dengue vaccine was banned in the Philippines after its French manufacturer Sanofi Pastuer Inc. admitted that it might cause more severe symptoms to those who had not yet been infected by dengue.

Flores emphasized that although being infected by a certain strain type will provide immunization for that strain, it could also mean that subsequent infection would be more severe.

“The dengue virus has 4 serotypes (DENV1, DENV2, DENV3 and DENV4). There are reports that DENV-3 is the predominant strain this year, which was not common in the past years,” he said.

Other solutions for dengue prevention according to Flores include adding Larviparous fish to water streams or ponds and adding certain bacteria such as Bacillus thruingiensis to breeding sites in order to kill mosquito larvae.

Further developments for dengue prevention are usage of Ovitrap ovicidal and larvicidal effect which prevent the next generation of mosquitoes from reaching adulthood, thus curbing the Aedes mosquito population. JADE VERONIQUE V. YAP AND MA. JASMINE TRISHA L. NEPOMUCENO

Thomasian tops nationwide science competition A THOMASIAN bagged the top prize for his research benefitting people suffering from a neurological disorder, during the 30th BPI-

O. CASTILLO

Jay Patrick Nieles (FILE PHOTO)

DOST Science Awards ceremony in the Alphaland City Club in Makati last Aug. 2.

Jay Patrick Nieles of the Faculty

of Engineering was given the Project of the Year and Best Innovation award for his work, which allows Locked-In Syndrome (LIS) patients communicate by capturing brainwaves and translating them into shapes and letters through artificial intelligence.

“It was very fulfilling, knowing that the research you’ve being working on for more than a year has received one of the most prestigious recognitions for Science and Technology,” Nieles told the Varsitarian in an online interview.

LIS is a rare neurological disorder in which all voluntary muscles, except those responsible for eye movement, are completely paralyzed.

Nieles also won the top place in the annual research exhibit of the UST Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering for the same research.

He encouraged aspiring Thomasian inventors and scientists to find inspiration from people who can allow them to pursue excellence in their chosen craft.

“Dream bigger and work harder to make an impact in the society, because you are called to be a world changer,” he said.

Organized by the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) in 1989 in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DoST), the BPI-DOST Science Awards is a nationwide event which recognizes outstanding science and engineering students from partner-universities. J. V. YAP

Thomasian

EDITOR: MARY JAZMIN D. TABUENA

The Varsitarian

SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

LENSPEAK The Varsitarian

9

WELCOME WALK

SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

EDITOR: MARY JAZMINE D. TABUENA

Nearly 10,000 freshmen marched through the historic Arch of the Centuries in the annual Thomasian Welcome Walk on August 6.

PHOTOS BY NADINE M. DEANG, JEAN GILBERT T. GO RENZELLE SHAYNE V. PICAR, ARIANNE MAYE D.G. VIRI BIANCA JOLENE S. REDONDO, MARVIN JOHN F. UY and CAMILLE ABIEL H. TORRES

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COMICS The Varsitarian

EDITOR: JURY P. SALAYA

SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

BUHAY NI SABRAY MARIANE JANE A. CADIZ

MIMATOLOGY ALISA JOY T. DEL MUNDO

TOMAS U. SANTOS EDWARD JEFFERSON UY

Youth ministry (FROM PAGE 3) Estioko said she learned the value

Preserve campus This was after Senator Bato called for increased military presence on campus to stop the alleged recruitment and kidnapping of students by “leftist groups.”

Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya even called the idea of militarization in universities as nothing but a propaganda by communist rebels, a “figment of the imagination”, to make the government seem a “repressive monster.” He however claimed that activism is also encouraged because of our country’s democratic society as long as its freedom does not go over the bounds of law. Senator De la Rosa seemed to have betrayed the design of government in sending uniformed men to state universities, saying that they were there to conduct “indoctrination.”

Against all of this subtle or not too subtle anti-democratic measures, UST must uphold its academic freedom and freedom from state interference and “national security” overreaching. UST prides itself for having a student body that is known for airing out its concerns freely and for providing a safe open space for individuals to express their thoughts and beliefs. Now if the government ever knocks on the Uni(FROM PAGE 4)

versity’s door and demands that its security forces be allowed to check leftist forces, the answer should immediately be a flat no.

First of all, the University is a private institution, it doesn’t belong to the government. The need for military presence in the school would be a slim chance as UST is a haven of peace and order and academic and creative ferment. Second, UST is a Pontifical University and should be considered part of the Catholic Church and therefore, separate from the State. Third, militarization would be a form of repression, instilling fear in the minds of the students and faculty. It will also jeopardize the academic freedom of the faculty. Professors and students have every right to exercise their beliefs, opinions and principles in the University and having uninvited guests in military or police uniforms may be construed as a form of state surveillance that will constitute a subtle crackdown on or censorship of independent thought. No outside force, especially the state’s military and police, should be allowed to enter the sacrosanct academic grounds of UST without any justifiable reason or invitation by the administration.

Debosyon sa Santisimo Rosario imahen at nang sa gayo’y maiiwas ito sa posibleng pagkawasak.

Taong 1954 nang italaga ang imahen ng La Naval sa bago nitong kapilya sa simbahan ng Santo Domingo sa lungsod ng Quezon.

Sa pangunguna ni P. Santos Galende, O.P., ibinalik ang orihinal na imahen ng parokya mula noong 1954 hanggang 1958. Hanggang sa magkaroon din ng mga bagong reporma sa liturhiya buhat ng Second Vatican Council sa pamumuno naman ni P. Patricio Rodrigo, O.P. Isang dekada ng pagbabago ang nangyari sa parokya noong dekada ‘80. Lalong ipinalaganap ni Bombase ang serbisyo ng parokya sa mga kalapit-bahay ng Unibersidad pagkatapos ng EDSA P e o p l e (MULA SA PAHINA 3)

Power Revolution noong 1986 sa pagsasagawa ng fiesta at iba pang pamparokyang aktibidad.

Nagpatuloy ang debosyon sa parokya sa pamumuno ng mga magigiting na kura paroko kung saan sinimulan ang Basic Ecclesial Communities, pagbalik-tanaw sa misyon ng parokya, pagpapaayos ng mga pasilidad, at pagsunod sa pagbabago ng panahon dulot ng teknolohiya.

Simula noong Oktubre 2017, ipinagdiwang ang ika-85 anibersaryo ng Parish hanggang sa kapistahan noong 2018 sa pangunguna ni P. Louie Coronel, O.P. TOMASINO SIYA Isang katangi-tanging serbisyo sa Simbahan ang ipinakita ni Leonida Laki Vera kung saan ilang proyekto at pagkilos para sa kababaihan sa Simbahan ang kaniyang sinimulan.

Taong 1956 nang magtapos siya ng kursong Accountancy sa dating kolehiyo ng komersiyo sa Unibersidad.

Nagsilbi siya bilang Philippine Ambassador to the Vatican City mula 2004 hanggang 2008.

Nagtrabaho rin siya para sa United Nations Development Fund for Wom-

en at mga ilang organisasyon sa Simbahan gaya ng Caritas Manila, Council of Laity of Manila, Children Rosary Movement at Paraclete Foundation.

Si Vera ang kauna-unahang babae na ginawaran ng Pontifical Order of Saint Sylvester noong 1994, isang papal knighthood na para sa kalalakihan lamang dati.

Noong 1995, tinanggap ni Vera ang outstanding alumna award in community service mula sa College of Commerce.

Iginawad kay Vera ang The Outstanding Thomasian Alumni para sa kaniyang serbisyo sa Simbahan noong 2005. NEIL JOSHUA N. SERVALLOS TOMASALITAAN Palindayag (png.) – himasmas, pagbawi ng kahinahunan mula sa gulat o takot Hal. Hanggang ngayon ay hindi pa rin ako napalindayag mula sa mga pagbabagong nangyari sa iyo.

Sanggunian: Santisimo Rosario Parish: Its History and Guide for Parish Leaders (Fr. Gallardo Asor Bombase, Jr. O.P.) Diksyunaryo-Tesauro Pilipino-Ingles ni Jose Villa Panganiban TOTAL Awards 2005 SOUVENIR PROGRAM

of camaraderie and leadership from the program.

“Natutuhan ko na kailangan magtiwala sa mga teammates kahit na magkakaiba kami ng karanasan sa buhay. [M]ore on journeying and accompaniment kami sa youth para mas lalo namin silang ma-empower,” Estioko told the Varsitarian.

She also commended youth leaders from Cymple for finding time to serve in their respective parishes.

Estioko has been an office staff of the campus ministry since 2018. She finished her degree in nursing at the Perpetual Help College of Manila.

Course topics included “Catholic Youth Ministry,” “Effective Youth Leadership,” “Engaged Citizenship,” “Management of Organizations,” “Critical Thinking,” “Public Speaking,” Social Media and Evangelization,” “Youth Catechesis,” and “Peer Facilitating.”

According to Assoc. Prof. Richard Pazcoguin, director of the campus ministry, Cymple graduates were trained to become youth leaders of their respective parishes and the community. “[N]akita namin na nakatutulong ang Cymple sa pag-develop ng leadership skills tuwing ipinapadala namin sila sa parish upang mag-mission experience. [Hence], the main task of the parish is to send youth missionaries,” Pazcoguin told the Varsitarian.

On the seventh Saturday, Cymple participants presented their mission portfolios.

Cymple, which had the theme, “Stoking the Flame of Inner Vitality for Youth Ministry,” aims to heighten the young people’s participation in the New Evangelization.

A candidate for Cymple must be recommended by the parish priest, ministry chaplain, or religious organization.

Established in 2012, Cymple has produced an estimated 200 graduates. MA. ALENA O. CASTILLO

Faith (FROM PAGE 4) Doxey

said religious freedom must be supported by the government because it strengthens and protects other civil and political rights. It also confirms the spiritual dimension of humanity.

Is religious freedom really present in the Philippines? Are religious ways of promoting moral values not prohibited?

If yes, then why are Church leaders and lay people who are standing up for the truth receiving threats for their non-violent defense of what they believe in?

If yes, then why is the Duterte administration determined to jail our Church leaders?

If yes, then why are we in this era of violence and attacks against religion?

Is it enough to just express our faith through rituals when those who stand for truth are being targeted by the state?

We must go back to the roots of what we believe in. It would be hypocritical for us to go to church every Sunday and post bible verses on social media if we do not practice the moral responsibilities that our faith demands of us.

SPORTS

The Varsitarian

EDITOR: FAITH YUEN WEI N. RAGASA

SEPTEMBER 7, 2019

11

Asean championship medalist woodpusher eyes UAAP crown UST WOODPUSHERS skipper May Ann Alcantara is eyeing the UAAP chess crown for her final year as a Thomasian representative.

Season 82 will be the graduating accountancy major’s last for the Woodpushers, putting more pressure in leading the team to a trophy.

After she bagged three international medals in the recent 20th Asean Age Group Chess Championships in Myanmar, the captain is set to finish strong in her last UAAP campaign.

The 20-year-old recently took home silver in the under-20 team standard, placed second in the under-20 team blitz category, and finished as first runner-up in the U-20 team rapid category.

“Noong high school pa ‘yong last competition ko internationally and ngayong college sobrang hirap na mag-compete abroad kaya honored ako,” Alcantara told the Varsitarian.

Her international win could be enough momentum for the seasoned chess player to help bring the team to a May Ann Alcantara PHOTO BY M.J.F. UY

UST’s Obiena now 10th in world pole vault rankings FORMER UST athlete EJ Obiena rose to the 10th spot in the men’s pole vault world rankings of the International Association of Athletics Federations.

Obiena, who won gold medals in the recent Asian Athletics Championships and Universiade, improved from 15th place in August after averaging a performance score of 1277 in his past international tourneys.

“This has been something I’ve always wanted to achieve. I never really thought about being here but I have aimed for it. I’m just really happy to be here,” the UST alumna told the Varsitarian in an online interview.

Obiena was the first Filipino to qualify for 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympic Games after he cleared 5.81 meters in the men’s pole vault competition of Salto Con L’asta in Italy on September 3.

The 23-year-old athlete surpassed his previous record of 5.76 meters during 2019 Summer Universiade in Italy last July.

The pole vaulter will compete in the 30th Southeast Asian Games in the country this November. MALIC

podium finish this year.

“Mino-motivate ko ‘yung mga teammates ko as a captain and masasabi ko na kami mismo sa mga players, nagtr-train kami na kami-kami lang kasi one goal talaga kami which is yung trophy,” Alcantara revealed.

After landing fifth last season, she now seeks to improve the team’s lack of endurance in last season’s matches.

Fifth-year mentor Ronald Dableo shared how he is seeing Alcantara aspire the championship.

“She is very determined to obtain a trophy this season with help from new recruits,” Dableo answered through an online interview.

UST recently outsmarted the National University Lady Bulldogs, 3-1, in the ongoing UAAP season 82 chess tournaments at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion.

The Woodpushers continue to vie for the championship, facing the Far Eastern University Tamaraws next on Sept. 25, Wednesday, 1 p.m. at the same venue.

ROMMEL BONG R. FUERTES JR. WITH REPORTS FROM MALIC U. COTONGAN

JUNIORS CAPTAIN STAYS WITH TIGER SPIKERS UST JUNIORS volleyball captain Lorenz Señoron decided to remain on the España side of the UAAP taraflex this Season 82.

The 18-year-old bumped up into the seniors’ category, now playing as a Tiger Spiker rookie in their current league, Spikers’ Turf.

Señoron started his UAAP career back in 2013 when he first entered the University as a high school freshman.

The wing side spiker made a name in his junior’s division years, bagging the Best Opposite Spiker award for three consecutive years – Seasons 79 to 81.

Tiger Spikers head coach Odjie Mamon is proud to have this young sensation as an addition to his homegrown picks this season.

“Inalagaan natin ‘yan. He’s got the numbers and balanced ‘yong skills niya. Ito ‘yong dream school niya, dream team niya, so in his pursuit of this dream, siyempre we will support him,” the tactician told the Varsitarian.

The Behavioral Science freshman tallied 21 points in their game versus the Arellano University Chiefs and 19 markers versus the Mapua Cardinals, spearheading UST in these two recent pre-season matches.

“Kailangan ko mag-perform (nang) buong tapang at puso kasi bibihira ang mabigyan ng ganitong oportunidad. Isa ako sa mga nabigyan kaya ipapakita ko na deserving ako,” Señoron said.

Though the spiker is at his A-game, head coach Mamon mentions that the still has a lot to adjust

COTONGAN

Ayo’s ‘mayhem’ resurgent

to and improve on, including his attack percentage and errors.

Señoron likewise admits that there is a big difference in playing as a senior as he now competes with stronger players with refined skills.

This, however, does not deter the rookie who is set to pursue his volleyball legacy with his mother and family as his biggest inspiration.

“I dedicate my achievements sa buong family ko, sa lahat ng mga taong sumusuporta sa UST and to God because He gave me this talent for me to share with other people.”

He assured that he will play with all of his heart for the pride of the Thomasian community.

Aside from his UAAP Juniors’ awards, he was also named as Best Attacker in the UST Inaugural Invitational League, Best Opposite Spiker in the Toby’s Juniors Volleyball League Season 12 and MVP for both Toby’s Junior’s Volleyball Leagues and the 2nd Manila Negros Invitational League.

Señoron will be seen at the UAAP taraflex in the men’s volleyball tournament to be held next semester.

MALIC U. COTONGAN

FROM PAGE 12

In his recent match-up with last season’s Most Valuable Player Akhuetie, the rookie limited the Maroon import to only 42.8% shooting from the field and outhustled the reigning MVP by two boards.

The rotations and the system have been working successfully despite the troupe’s supposed rebuilding status with nine rookies.

The UST Growling Tigers have won four out of six games in the season.

According to Dela Cruz, the one-point-short loss against the UAAP reigning kings Ateneo de Manila University Blue Eagles, 71-70, solidified the Tigers as legitimate contenders for this year’s UAAP championship race.

After the team trounced the Far Eastern University Tamaraws, 82-74, they will next face La Salle on Sept. 28, Saturday, 2 p.m. at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay. ROMMEL BONG R. FUERTES JR.

Charlee Magpayo (left) and Lorenz Señoron celebrate after scoring against the Mapua University Cardinals PHOTO

BY J.G.T. GO

UAAP badminton: UST squads crush UE THE UST Golden Shuttlers scored back-to-back wins against the University of the East Red Warriors in the UAAP season 82 badminton tournaments at the Camp Crame Badminton Court in Cubao Saturday.

The Female Shuttlers dominated the Lady Warriors, 5-0, while the Male Shuttlers scored a convincing 4-1 victory.

Kristeen Kyle Geronimo prevailed over UE’s Graziel Cabriga, 21-6, 21-7, while Stephanie Mortera defeated Red Warrior Kessara Kaye Palot, 21-11, 21-15.

Elij Maridaine Peña also bested UE’s Patrice Reyes, 21-9, 21-12. UST duo Maria Therese Tumbali and Samantha Erica Chozas pummeled Reyes and Justine Grace Amposta,

21-8, 21-9.

Lady Warriors Palot and Cabriga faltered against Mortera and Geronimo, 17-21, 15-21.

In men’s play, Lanz Ramirez trounced Red Warrior Christian Lloyd Garcia, 21-10 21-17, before Golden Shuttler Jan Barlinan lost to Angelo Joaquin David, 15-21, 15-21.

UST’s Russell Enriquez and Josh

Defensor beat Red Warriors Chez Zarsuelo and Khristian Reyes, 21-10, 21-14.

Brothers Henry and Henric Peralta triumphed over Angelo David and Jireh Ortega, 21-15, 21-16.

Sean Dela Cruz finished the matches with a 21-8, 21-8 win over Red Warrior Edward Adriano. ROMMEL BONG FUERTES JR

INSIDE

Sports

UST’s Obiena now 10th in world pole vault rankings PAGE 11 Alcantara eyeing UAAP chess crown

PAGE 11

The Varsitarian SEPTEMBER ??, 2019

AYO’S ‘MAYHEM’ RESURGENT THE UAAP Season 82 men’s basketball crown is becoming closer to reality, as head coach Aldin Ayo is slowly finding the squad’s groove, a sports analyst said.

Golden Tigresses blast Arellano for PVL semis ticket THE UST GOLDEN Tigresses secured a semifinal slot after burying the Arellano University Lady Chiefs in their Premier Volleyball League Collegiate Conference encounter at the Arena in San Juan last Sept. 14..

UST‘s 25-21, 25-23, 22-25, 25-23 victory over the Lady Chiefs extended its undefeated run to 5.

Down by a point in the fourth set, 20-21, Golden Tigress KC Galdones’ combination play ignited a 6-2 run to bag the win.

Trailing 18-19 in the third canto, the Lady Chiefs extended the match by dropping a 7-3 bomb to prevent a sweep.

Arellano kept the lead in the opening salvo, 18-17, before UST made an 8-3 spurt, topped

by Janna Torres’ kill-block to secure the first set.

Eya Laure’s double performance led UST with 10 excellent digs and 20 kills while Galdones tallied 13 markers.

Charmina Dino posted 13 points from 10

Golden Tigress Janna Torres spikes the ball against Arellano defenders.

Bianca Jolene S. Redondo

attacks and three aces to lead the Lady Chiefs.

Comeback Laure’s sister EJ is hoping to return to the court in the upcoming UAAP season, following a two-year hiatus due to a shoulder injury.

“Hopefully makapaglaro na ako (for UAAP) pero sumasakit pa rin kasi,” she said.

EJ Laure, the UAAP Season 77 Rookie of the Year, scored one point in their game against the Technological Institute of the Philippines Lady Engineers.

“Gusto ‘kong lumakas muna and gusto ‘kong mag-handa para 100 percent akong makapaglaro for UAAP,” she said.

Eya Laure said she was looking forward to her older sister’s possible return.

“I’m happy kasi iba ‘yong feeling na magkasama kami and iba ‘yong guidance niya sa loob ng court,” the tourism sophomore added. MALIC U. COTONGAN.

Abando is already averaging 17.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game while shooting 36.6% from deep.

The guard’s defensive intensity is also something to keep an eye on as he averaged two steals per game and swatted three shots en route to the win in his last outing.

Still however, the biggest factor to look out for is the 6-foot-6 Beninese out of Colegio De San Lorenzo, Soulemane Chabi-Yo as he is already gaining comparisons with star big men of UST’s past.

Rookie import Chabi-Yo posted a solid stat line of 20.5 PPG and 15.5 RPG in all the games with the Tigers, including the alumni exhibition game.

In less than five games, he has already established himself as a walking highlight reel and a double-double machine despite being undersized compared to other imports like Issa Gaye, Papi Sarr, Ange Kouame and Bright Akhuetie.

Ayo’s ‘mayhem’ PAGE 11

PHOTO BY RENZELLE SHANE V. PICAR

UST coach Aldin Ayo directs Renzo Subido and CJ Cansino during their game against Ateneo de Manila University. PHOTO BY MARY JAZMIN D. TABUENA

THE TIGERS have been successfully integrating Ayo’s vaunted system of unpredictable player rotations and his signature ‘Mayhem’ defense that has terrorized the opposition.

Ayo introduced the famed defense with the Letran Knights back in the 91st season of the NCAA, which reaped a title for the squad.

This same system also brought a championship to Taft, when the tactician utilized stars Ben Mbala and Jeron Teng to bag the Season 79 championship for the De La Salle Green Archers.

PressOne.ph’s sports analyst Chris King Dela Cruz told the Varsitarian that he firmly believes the Tigers are making a strong run for the title despite being less favored in the league.

UST found their ‘Four Horsemen’ in CJ Cansino, Mark Nonoy, Rhenz Abando, and graduating guard Renzo Subido.

Aside from team captain Cansino who is yet to have a stellar performance, all performed as a cohesive unit thus far in the season. “[CJ] is still finding his rhythm, pero ‘yon nga ang interesting, he is not yet in peak form yet we’re making waves,” Dela Cruz added.

The King Tiger only tallied nine points in their season opener against the University of the East Red Warriors while scoring only a point in their showdown against the University of the Philippines Fighting Maroons.

The backcourt tandem of Nonoy and Subido have been the X-factor in the clutch for the Tigers, with their outside sniping crucial in putting the opposing teams at bay.

Subido is shooting 45% from the field while Nonoy has some ground to make up with his 25.6% field goal percentage.

Rookie Nonoy’s explosive speed and bursts to the rim made his game complementary with the senior Subido, who continues to mature as the team’s floor general.

Ayo’s mindset of preparing the rookies for the collegiate circuit has quickly developed Abando into an all-around threat for any team that faces UST. “Our preparation started last November. Last November pa lang, ‘yong mga rookies natin hino-hone na natin para makapaglaro within the system,” Ayo said in an exclusive interview after the Tigers’ victory against the Maroons.